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TRD Triad Group Plc

255.00
0.00 (0.00%)
Last Updated: 08:00:00
Delayed by 15 minutes
Share Name Share Symbol Market Type Share ISIN Share Description
Triad Group Plc LSE:TRD London Ordinary Share GB0009035741 ORD 1P
  Price Change % Change Share Price Bid Price Offer Price High Price Low Price Open Price Shares Traded Last Trade
  0.00 0.00% 255.00 250.00 260.00 255.00 255.00 255.00 850,000 08:00:00
Industry Sector Turnover Profit EPS - Basic PE Ratio Market Cap
Computer Related Svcs, Nec 14.86M -44k -0.0027 -944.44 42.32M

Triad Group Plc Final Results (7312H)

12/06/2017 7:00am

UK Regulatory


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RNS Number : 7312H

Triad Group Plc

12 June 2017

Triad Group Plc

AUDITED RESULTS FOR THE YEARED 31 MARCH 2017

(Company number: 2285049)

Triad Group Plc is pleased to announce its results for the year ended 31 March 2017.

The Board is proposing a final dividend of 0.5p per share. Subject to shareholder approval at the Annual General Meeting on 23 August 2017, the Company will pay the dividend on Tuesday 7 September 2017 to all shareholders on the register of members of the Company at the close of business on 11 August 2017. The ex-dividend date will be on 10 August 2017.

For further information please contact:

 
 Triad Group Plc 
 
   Nick Burrows 
   Company Secretary 
 
   Tel: 01908 278450 
 
 Arden Partners 
  plc 
 
   Chris Hardie 
   Benjamin Cryer 
 
   Tel: 020 7614 
   5920 
 

Strategic report

Financial highlights

   --      Revenue for the year ended 31 March 2017: GBP30.9m (2016: GBP28.3m) 
   --      Profit before tax: GBP1.52m (2016: GBP0.86m) 

-- Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA): GBP1.61m (2016: GBP1.13m)

   --      Profit after tax: GBP1.53m (2016: GBP1.21m) 
   --      Gross profit as a percentage of revenue: 16.2% (2016: 15.0%) 

Chairman's statement

Dr John Rigg, Executive Chairman

The results for the year ended 31 March 2017 represent the Group's strongest performance in ten years. We have seen continued improvement across key financial indicators with revenue up by 9.2% to GBP30.9m (2016: GBP28.3m), profit before tax up by 76% to GBP1.52m (2016: GBP0.86m), and gross profit as a percentage of revenue increasing to 16.2% (2016: 15.0%).

Revenue and profit have been driven by careful management of existing key accounts, with significant growth seen across three of our four largest clients. This has been achieved as a result of the professionalism of our staff and outstanding levels of service delivered by our teams. Maintaining long-lasting relationships with our clients is a key contributor to our strengthened position, and the Group has been particularly successful in this regard despite the intense competition faced across the industry.

Amongst the year's highlights has been Triad's involvement in a national roll-out for digital services helping one of our Central Government clients with their transformation agenda. Elsewhere, we have been underpinning the work of one of the country's leading foreign aid consultancies, helping them to deliver services more efficiently through the development of a range of digital services. This work has also contributed to the significant improvements within our Office365 practice, an area we expect to expand as uptake increases.

In another Central Government client, we have been providing a highly talented team of system engineers responsible for creating an industrial-strength platform from which a range of digital services is being hosted. Triad consultants are also providing key advisory services to a major Government-owned company, helping them to determine and deliver their strategic goals over the next 3-5 years.

The Group's strong performance within the GIS sector continued, expanding not only within existing key accounts but also with some new clients who recognise our position as domain experts.

A fundamental characteristic of all of our engagements is the provision of highly talented experts, passionate about delivering positive outcomes for our clients. Our ability to deliver and to get projects 'over the line' is regularly cited as a core competence by our clients.

One of the most significant challenges of the year was undoubtedly the build up to, and introduction of, new legislation around Off-Payroll Working (related to existing IR35 legislation) with a significant number of our contractors placed with public sector clients. Triad adopted a proactive approach regarding the legislation, working with the entire supply chain, achieving a smooth transition when the legislation was enacted in April 2017. The main industry-wide risk associated with the legislation (for both suppliers and customers) was that of contractors, concerned by the impact of the new legislation, choosing to leave their positions to move to roles in the private sector. Whilst we saw a modest amount of such departures, overall the retention rate was high. Going forwards, we do not expect the legislation to pose any significant challenges (at least until it is inevitably rolled out to the private sector).

A further challenge arose during the year when one government programme, to whom we were supplying a significant number of consultants, was halted prematurely, necessitating a lengthy pause in activity. This is an inevitable risk of larger and deeper engagements, the mitigation of which remains a key priorty for the Group.

The Group has maintained its presence on key frameworks such as DOS and g-Cloud, whilst enjoying success on joining other frameworks that give access to key target clients.

A number of new clients were acquired by the Group during the year, including one of Europe's largest automotive retailers, a large telecoms infrastructure operator, a significant player in the anti-terror area, and the world's leading GIS software provider.

The Group is steadily increasing its public profile. Triad was a key sponsor at last year's ContainerSched conference, an event attracting some of the leading software engineers and technology businesses. Triad has also assumed leadership of a number of meet-up groups, including two around the emerging BlockChain technology. Involvement in this type of activity is increasing Triad's reach significantly, providing access to some of the foremost talent in these fields.

In February the Board announced the appointment of a new broker, Arden Partners plc. We view this as a signifcant step in returning the Group to its former glory.

Dividend

I am pleased to announce that, for the year ending 31 March 2017, the directors have proposed a dividend of 0.5p per share (2016: NIL).

Outlook

Going forwards, the intention is to drive new business, in particular to increase our coverage outside the public sector. Our expertise in Agile, continuous delivery and DevOps services, combined with increasing exposure to emerging concepts such as BlockChain, is extremely portable across sectors and provides the opportunity to strengthen the client portfolio.

Our sales pipeline remains healthy as we move into the the second quarter of the new financial year and we remain focussed on building a more robust, profitable business.

Employees

On behalf of the Board I would like to thank all our staff for their efforts during the past year.

John Rigg

Chairman

9 June 2017

Organisation overview

Triad Group Plc is engaged in the provision of IT resourcing, consultancy and solutions services to the public and private sectors.

Principal objectives

The principal objectives of the Group are to;

   --      Provide clients with industry leading service in our core skills. 

-- Achieve sustainable profitable growth across the business and increase long term shareholder value.

The key elements of our strategy to achieve our objectives are;

To provide a range of specialist services relevant to our clients' business

-- Our services include consultancy, change leadership, project delivery, software development, mobility services and business insights. Further capacity and expertise is provided via our resourcing services.

-- We continue to adopt a "business first, technology second" approach to solving our clients' problems. A cornerstone of our service offer is our consultancy model, offering advice and guidance to clients in terms of technology investments.

To develop long term client relationships across a broad client base

-- Enduring client relationships fuel profitability. A hallmark of our recent improvements has been the frequency of repeat business, which itself has been a function of outstanding delivery and proactive business development within existing accounts.

-- Our consistent track record in this regard is our major asset when developing propositions for new clients, along with the use of case studies and references.

-- We have structured our service offering to enable clients to engage early, thus enabling the building of trust and confidence from the outset.

To work with partners

-- Our strategy includes working with carefully chosen partners operating under their client frameworks in addition to the frameworks on which Triad is listed. This will expose more opportunities whilst reducing the cost of sale.

To leverage group capability and efficiency to increase profitability

-- We continue to develop synergies across the Group's activities both externally and internally, driving better outcomes for clients whilst improving efficiency and effectiveness. The management team sets objectives to ensure that these synergies are exploited.

-- We enable our clients to benefit from access to a full range of ICT services, delivered through a single, easy to access, point of sale.

-- We will continue to strive to provide the highest quality of service through the provision of niche resources using market experts, and the supply of IT services though our team of skilled consultants.

-- We will strengthen our pipeline of work through the development of fulfilling and productive client relationships.

Business model

The Group provides services to the public and private sectors in the provision of IT consultancy and solutions services, and IT resourcing (both contract and permanent). Typically, this entails the supply of our own permanent consultants, the supply of carefully chosen associates and contractors, or a combination of these.

The Group operates in the United Kingdom from offices in Godalming (registered office) and Milton Keynes.

Principal risks and uncertainties

The Group's business involves risks and uncertainties, which the Board systematically manages through its planning and governance processes.

The Board carries out a robust assessment of the principal risks facing the Group on an annual basis, examining the Group's operating environment, scanning for potential risks to the health and wellbeing of the organisation. The Directors factor into the business plan the likelihood and magnitude of risk in determining the achievability of the operational objectives. Where feasible, preventive and mitigating actions are developed for all principal risks.

Senior management review the risk register and track the status of these risk factors on an on-going basis, identifying any emerging risks as they appear.

The outputs of this management review form part of the Board's governance process, reviewed at regular Board meetings.

The principal risks identified are:

IT services market

The demand for IT services is affected by UK market conditions. The creation of new services, acquisition of new clients and the development of new commercial vehicles is important in protecting the Group from fluctuations in market conditions.

Revenue visibility

The pipeline of contracted orders for time and materials consultancy work can be relatively short. The Board carefully reviews forecasts to assess the level of risk arising from business that is forecast to be won.

Availability of staff

The ability to recruit and retain staff, and access to appropriately skilled resources are key to ensuring the ability to win and deliver IT services to our clients. The Group continues to recruit quality individuals, and ensures a resilient network of associate resources is maintained.

Competition

The Group operates in a highly competitive environment. The markets in which the Group operates are continually monitored to respond effectively to emerging opportunities and threats.

There are or may be other risks and uncertainties faced by the Group that the Directors currently deem immaterial, or of which they are unaware, that may have a material adverse impact on the Group.

Viability Statement

In accordance with the Listing Rules the Directors have assessed the Company's viability over the next five financial years.

This assessment of viability has been made with reference to the Group's current financial and operational positions, revenue projections, cash flows, availability of required finance, commercial opportunities and threats, and the Group's experience in managing adverse conditions in the past. The Company was founded in 1988 and has survived successfully since then.

The assessment also considered the impact of severe, yet plausible, scenarios based on the principal risks set out on page 4 above. Sensitivities around revenue growth, gross margins, and availability of funds to meet operational requirements were considered.

Based on this assessment the Directors have concluded that there is a reasonable expectation that the Company and Group will continue in operation and meet its liabilities as they fall due over the next five years.

Given the Group's business model and commercial and financial exposures the Directors consider that five years is an appropriate period for the assessment. The maximum period of visibility of commercial arrangements with clients is currently two years, however in considering the assessment period assumptions have been made beyond this immediate timeframe.

Performance assessment, financial review and outlook

Financial and non-financial key performance indicators (KPIs) used by the Board to monitor progress are revenue, profit from operations, gross margin, net borrowings and headcount. Financial KPIs are discussed in more detail in the Financial Review below. The outlook for the Group is discussed in the Chairman's statement on page 1.

The KPIs are as follows;

 
                                        2017             2016 
 
 Revenue                       GBP30,912,000    GBP28,317,000 
 
 Profit from operations         GBP1,547,000       GBP980,000 
 
 Earnings before interest, 
  tax, depreciation and         GBP1,612,000     GBP1,133,000 
  amortisation (EBITDA) 
 
 Gross margin                          16.2%            15.0% 
 
 Average headcount                        53               52 
 

Corporate social responsibility

Our employees

The Group is committed to equal opportunities and operates employment policies which are designed to attract, retain and motivate high quality staff, regardless of gender, age, race, religion or disability. The Group has a policy of supporting staff in long term career development.

The Group recognises the importance of having effective communication and consultation with, and of providing leadership to, all its employees. The Group promotes the involvement of its employees in understanding the aims and performance of the business.

The following table shows the number of persons, by gender, who at 31 March 2017 were directors, senior managers or employees of the Company.

 
                    Male   Female   Total 
-----------------  -----  -------  ------ 
 Directors           5       -        5 
-----------------  -----  -------  ------ 
 Senior managers     2       1        3 
-----------------  -----  -------  ------ 
 Employees           36      12      48 
-----------------  -----  -------  ------ 
                     43      13      56 
-----------------  -----  -------  ------ 
 

Environment and greenhouse gas reporting

The Group is committed to ensuring that the actual and potential environmental impact of its activities is understood and managed effectively.

The annual quantity of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions for the period 1 April 2016 to 31 March 2017 in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents (tCO(2) e) is shown in the table below.

 
                                 2017        2016 
----------------------------  ----------  ---------- 
                               tCO(2) e*   tCO(2) e* 
----------------------------  ----------  ---------- 
 Emission source: 
----------------------------  ----------  ---------- 
 Combustion of fuel               23          23 
----------------------------  ----------  ---------- 
 Electricity and heat 
  purchased for own use           94          91 
----------------------------  ----------  ---------- 
 Total                            117         114 
----------------------------  ----------  ---------- 
 tCO(2) e per GBP1m revenue       3.8         4.0 
----------------------------  ----------  ---------- 
 

*The calculation of tCO(2) e for each source has been prepared in accordance with DEFRA guidelines for GHG reporting.

Social, community and human rights issues

We do not report on social, community and human rights issues as the Group has no significant matters to report that would be required to understand the performance of the Group's business.

Financial review

Group performance

The Group reports the following results for the financial year ended 31 March 2017:

Group revenue has increased to GBP30.9m (2016: GBP28.3m).

The Group reports an increase in profit from operations to GBP1.55m (2016: GBP0.98m). Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) is GBP1.61m (2016: GBP1.13m). The Group reports a profit after tax of GBP1.53m (2016: GBP1.21m).

Gross margin has increased to 16.2% (2016: 15.0%). A concerted effort across the business has led to improvements in gross margin, helped by the eradication of lower-margin work and the increase in profitability of new business.

Cash and cash equivalents at the year-end have increased to GBP2,248,000 (2016: GBP955,000).

Overheads

Administrative expenses for the year have increased to GBP3.45m (2016: GBP3.26m).

Staff costs have increased to GBP3.99m (2016: GBP3.67m). The average headcount for the year has increased slightly to 53 (2016: 52).

Cash flows

Cash and cash equivalents at 31 March 2017 stood at GBP2,248,000 (2016: GBP955,000). There was a net cash inflow from operating activities of GBP1,327,000 (2016: GBP621,000). The net cash outflow from investing activities was GBP74,000 (2016: GBP50,000).

Tangible assets

Tangible assets were purchased totalling GBP74,000 (2016: GBP42,000).

Intangible assets

There were no development costs capitalised during the year (2016: GBPnil).

Net assets

The net asset position of the Group at 31 March 2017 was GBP3,562,000 (2016: GBP2,056,000). The increase over the year was due to the profit for the year.

Share options

340,000 options were exercised by directors and staff during the year. No new options were granted during the year. An expense of GBP2,000 (2016: GBP4,438) has been recognised relating to options granted in September 2014.

By order of the Board

Nick Burrows

Finance Director

9 June 2017

Directors' Report

The Directors present their Annual Report on the activities of the Group, together with the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2017. The Board confirms that these, taken as a whole, are fair, balanced and understandable, and that they provide the information necessary for shareholders to assess the company's position and performance, business model and strategy, and that the narrative sections of the report are consistent with the financial statements and accurately reflect the Group's performance and financial position.

The Strategic Report provides information relating to the Group's activities, its business and strategy and the principal risks and uncertainties faced by the business, including analysis using financial and other KPIs where necessary. These sections, together with the Directors' Remuneration and Corporate Governance Reports, provide an overview of the Group, including environmental and employee matters and give an indication of future developments in the Group's business, so providing a balanced assessment of the Group's position and prospects, in accordance with the latest narrative reporting requirements. The Group's subsidiary undertakings are disclosed in the notes to the financial statements.

Corporate Governance disclosures required with the Directors' Report have been included within our Corporate Governance Report beginning on page 12.

Share capital and substantial shareholdings

Share capital

As at 31 March 2017, the Company's issued share capital comprised a single class of shares referred to as ordinary shares. Details of the ordinary share capital can be found in note 19 to these financial statements.

Voting rights

The Group's articles provide that on a show of hands at a general meeting of the Company every member who (being an individual) is present in person and entitled to vote shall have one vote and on a poll, every member who is present in person or by proxy shall have one vote for every share held. The notice of the Annual General Meeting specifies deadlines for exercising voting rights and appointing a proxy or proxies to vote in relation to resolutions to be passed at the Annual General Meeting.

Transfer of shares

There are no restrictions on the transfer of ordinary shares in the Company other than as contained in the Articles:

-- The Board may, in its absolute discretion, and without giving any reason for its decision, refuse to register any transfer of a share which is not fully paid up (but not so as to prevent dealing in listed shares from taking place) and on which the Company has a lien. The Board may also refuse to register any transfer unless it is in respect of only one class of shares, in favour of no more than four transferees, lodged at the Registered office, or such other place as the Board may decide, for registration, accompanied by a certificate for the shares to be transferred (except where the shares are registered in the name of a market nominee and no certificate has been issued for them) and such other evidence as the Board may reasonably require to prove the title of the intending transferor or his right to transfer the shares.

Certain restrictions may from time to time be imposed by laws and regulations, for example:

   --      Insider trading laws; and 

-- Whereby certain employees of the Group require the approval of the Company to deal in the Company's ordinary shares.

Appointment and replacement of directors

The Board may appoint Directors. Any Directors so appointed shall retire from office at the next Annual General Meeting of the Company, but shall then be eligible for re-appointment.

The current Articles require that at the Annual General Meeting one third of the Directors shall retire from office but shall be eligible for re-appointment. The Directors to retire by rotation at each Annual General Meeting shall include any Director who wishes to retire and not offer himself for re-election and otherwise shall be the Directors who, at the date of the meeting, have been longest in office since their last appointment or re-appointment.

A Director may be removed from office by the service of a notice to that effect signed by at least three quarters of all the other Directors.

Amendment of the Company's Articles of Association

The Company's Articles may only be amended by a special resolution passed at a general meeting of shareholders.

Substantial shareholdings

As at 31 March 2017 the Company had been notified under the Disclosure and Transparency Rules (DTR 5) of the following notifiable interests in the Company's issued share capital. These holdings are likely to have changed since the Company was notified, however, notification of any change is not required until the next notifiable threshold is crossed:

 
                           % of total voting rights 
  Liontrust Investment 
   Partners LLP                               4.39% 
  T Charlton                                  6.04% 
 

As at 8 June 2017 the following notifications have been received since the year end:

 
                 % of total voting rights 
  P Atkinson                       17.39% 
 

Dividends

The Directors are proposing a final dividend of 0.5p per ordinary share (2016: nil), totalling GBP77,448 (2016: nil). This dividend has not been accrued in the statements of financial position.

Financial instruments

The Board reviews and agrees policies for managing financial risk. These policies, together with an analysis of the Group's exposure to financial risks are summarised in note 3 of these financial statements.

Research and development activity

Research and development activities are undertaken with the prospect of gaining new technical knowledge and understanding, and developing new software.

Directors' interests in contracts

Directors' interests in contracts are shown in note 22 to the accounts.

Directors' insurance and indemnities

The Company maintains directors' and officers' liability insurance which gives appropriate cover for any legal action brought against its directors and officers. The Directors also have the benefit of the indemnity provisions contained in the Company's Articles of Association. These provisions, which are qualifying third-party indemnity provisions as defined by Section 236 of the Companies Act 2006, were in force throughout the year and are currently in force.

Disclosure of information to auditors

All of the current Directors have taken all the steps that they ought to have taken to make themselves aware of any information needed by the Company's auditors for the purposes of their audit and to establish that the auditors are aware of that information. The Directors are not aware of any relevant audit information of which the auditors are unaware.

Forward-looking statements

The Strategic Report contains forward-looking statements. Due to the inherent uncertainties, including both economic and business risk factors, underlying such forward-looking information, the actual results of operations, financial position and liquidity may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements.

Going concern

The Group's business activities, together with the factors likely to affect its future development, performance and position, are set out in the Strategic Report. The financial position of the Group, its cash flows, liquidity position and borrowing facilities are described in the Strategic Report, and in note 17 to the financial statements. In addition, note 3 to the financial statements includes the Group's objectives, policies and processes for managing its capital, its financial risk management objectives, details of its financial instruments and hedging activities, and its exposure to credit risk and liquidity risk. As highlighted in note 17 to the financial statements, the Group meets its day to day working capital requirements through an invoice finance facility.

The Group's projections, taking account of reasonable possible changes in trading performance, show that the Group should be able to operate within the level of its current facility. The facility may be terminated by either party with one month's written notice. The Board receives regular cash flow and working capital projections to enable it to monitor its available headroom under this facility. These projections indicate that the Group expects to have sufficient resources to meet its reasonably expected obligations. The bank has not drawn to the attention of the Group any matters to suggest that this facility will not be continued on acceptable terms.

After making enquiries, the Directors have a reasonable expectation that the Group has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Accordingly, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the annual report and accounts.

Auditors

The external audit was last put out to tender in 2006 when the current auditor, BDO LLP, was appointed. The lead audit partner was changed by rotation in 2013, her predecessor having served for a period of 5 years. Following the implementation of EU Audit Reform, Triad is required to conduct a selection process for the appointment of the external auditor every 10 years. Accordingly, the Audit Committee intends to undertake a selection process for the appointment of the external auditor for the financial year ending 31 March 2018 so as to ensure auditor independence and continued quality of judgement. The Board can confirm that there are no contractual obligations that restrict the Company's choice of external auditor.

Environment and greenhouse gas reporting

Carbon dioxide emissions data, is contained in the Corporate Social Responsibility section of the Strategic Report.

Statement of Directors' responsibilities

The Directors are responsible for preparing the annual report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations.

Company law requires the Directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under that law the Directors are required to prepare the Group financial statements and have elected to prepare the Company financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) as adopted by the European Union. Under company law the Directors must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Group and Company and of the profit or loss for the Group and Company for that period.

In preparing these financial statements, the Directors are required to:

   --       select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; 
   --       make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent; 

-- state whether they have been prepared in accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the European Union,, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements;

-- prepare a Directors' Report, Strategic Report and Director's Remuneration Report which comply with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.

The Directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the company's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006 and, as regards the Group financial statements, Article 4 of the IAS Regulation. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

The Directors are responsible for ensuring the annual report and the financial statements are made available on a website. Financial statements are published on the company's website in accordance with legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements, which may vary from legislation in other jurisdictions. The maintenance and integrity of the Company's website is the responsibility of the Directors. The Directors' responsibility also extends to the ongoing integrity of the financial statements contained therein.

The Directors confirm to the best of their knowledge:

-- The Group financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) as adopted by the European Union and Article 4 of the IAS Regulation and give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit and loss of the Group.

-- The annual report includes a fair review of the development and performance of the business and the financial position of the Group and the Parent Company, together with the description of the principal risks and uncertainties that they face.

By order of the Board

Nick Burrows

Company Secretary 9 June 2017

Corporate governance report

The Board has considered the principles and provisions of the UK Corporate Governance Code 2014 ("the Code") applicable for this financial period. The following statement sets out the Group's application of the principles of the Code and the extent of compliance with the Code's provisions, made in accordance with the requirements of the Listing Rules.

The Board

The Directors who held office during the financial year were:

Executive Directors

John Rigg, Chairman

Nick Burrows, Finance Director

Adrian Leer, Commercial Director

Independent non-executive Directors

Alistair Fulton, senior independent non-executive Director

Steven Sanderson

John Rigg is Chairman. He is a Chartered Accountant. He was a founder of Marcol Group Plc and was its Managing Director from 1983 until 1988. Marcol was floated on the Unlisted Securities Market in 1987. He was Chairman of Vega Group plc from 1989 until 1996, holding the post of Chief Executive for much of this period. Vega floated on the main market in 1992. He was a founder shareholder of Triad and served as the Chairman of the Company from 1988 up to just before its flotation in 1996, when he resigned to develop new business interests overseas. He was appointed as non-executive Chairman in June 1999: in May 2004 he became part-time executive Chairman. Between 4 February 2005 and 5 September 2007 John was acting Group Chief Executive.

Alistair Fulton is a non-executive Director. He is a Chartered Engineer and member of the British Computer Society. He was the founding Managing Director of Triad. He continued in this role until February 1997 when he became non-executive Chairman, a position he retained until June 1999, when he took up his present position.

Steven Sanderson is a non-executive Director. He is a Chartered Accountant. He was appointed non-executive Director in January 2007. He has extensive experience at executive director level in the IT services and telecommunications sectors. His background includes public flotations, plc directorship, fund raising, acquisition and disposal activities.

Nick Burrows is the Finance Director. He is a Chartered Accountant who joined Triad in 2001 as Financial Controller of the Consulting & Solutions business. He was appointed Company Secretary in 2008 and executive Finance Director in October 2009.

Adrian Leer was appointed to the Board as Commercial Director on 3 March 2015. He initially joined Triad in 2009 in a consultative capacity, providing advice to the business regarding its fledgling geospatial product, Zubed, and helping to secure significant wins with major clients. In 2010, he became General Manager of Zubed Geospatial. In 2012 Adrian became Commercial Director of Triad Consulting & Solutions.

The Board exercise full and effective control of the Group and has a formal schedule of matters specifically reserved to it for decision, including responsibility for formulating, reviewing and approving Group strategy, budgets and major items of capital expenditure.

Regularly the Board will consider and discuss matters which include, but are not limited to:

   --      Strategy; 
   --      Financial performance and forecast; 
   --      Human resources; and 
   --      City and compliance matters. 

The Executive Chairman, John Rigg, is responsible for the leadership and efficient operation of the Board. This entails ensuring that Board meetings are held in an open manner, and allow sufficient time for agenda points to be discussed. It also entails the regular appraisal of each director, providing feedback and reviewing any training or development needs.

The Board meets regularly with senior management to discuss operational matters. The Non-Executive Directors must satisfy themselves on the integrity of financial information and that financial controls and systems of risk management are robust. Following presentations by senior management and a disciplined process of review and challenge by the Board, clear decisions on the policy or strategy are adopted. The responsibility for implementing Board decisions is delegated to management on a structured basis and monitored at subsequent meetings.

During the period under review, and to date, the Executive Chairman has not held any significant commitments outside the Group.

Alistair Fulton is the nominated senior independent non-executive Director. Steven Sanderson is a non-executive Director. Both have long standing industry experience and are free from any business or other relationship which could materially interfere with the exercise of thier independent judgement. The Board benefits from their experience and independence, when they bring their judgement to Board decisions. Alistair Fulton has been a non-executive Director for twenty years. Steven Sanderson has been a non-executive director for ten years. The Board considers that both continue to remain independent for the reasons stated above.

The Group has a procedure for Directors to take independent professional advice in connection with the affairs of the Group and the discharge of their duties as Directors.

The Board has an Audit Committee, comprised of the Executive Chairman John Rigg, and the independent non-executive Directors, Alistair Fulton and Steven Sanderson. The Committee is chaired by Alistair Fulton.

The Board has a Remuneration Committee, comprised of the Executive Chairman John Rigg, and the independent non-executive Directors, Alistair Fulton and Steven Sanderson. The Committee is chaired by Alistair Fulton.

The following table shows the attendance of Directors at scheduled meetings of the Board and Audit and Remuneration Committees during the year ended 31 March 2017 and shows that the Board are able to allocate sufficient time to the company to discharge their responsibilities effectively.

 
                                       Audit Committee   Remuneration 
                               Board                       Committee 
 
 Number of meetings 
  held 
 
  Number of meetings 
  attended 
 
  Executive Directors:         11             2               4 
 John Rigg (Chairman)          11             2               4 
 Nick Burrows                  11            n/a             n/a 
  Adrian Leer                   11           n/a              n/a 
 
 Non-executive Directors: 
 Alistair Fulton               11             2               4 
 Steven Sanderson               9             2               4 
 

Audit Committee

The members of the Audit Committee are shown above.

The Board believe that John Rigg and Steven Sanderson, both Chartered Accountants with broad experience of the IT industry, and Alistair Fulton, who has been a Director of companies in the IT sector for over 30 years, have recent and relevant financial experience, as required by the Code.

The Audit Committee is responsible for reviewing the Group's annual and interim financial statements and other announcements. It is also responsible for reviewing the Group's internal financial controls and its internal control and risk management systems. It considers the appointment and fees of external auditors, and discusses the audit scope and findings arising from audits. The Committee is also responsible for assessing the Group's need for an internal audit function.

Consideration of significant issues in relation to the financial statements

The Audit Committee have considered the following significant issues in relation to the preparation of these financial statements;

Revenue recognition: The Committee has considered revenue recognised in consultancy and development projects during, and active at the end of, the financial year to ensure revenue has been recognised correctly.

Going concern: The Committee has reviewed budgets and cash flow projections against borrowing facilities available to the Group to ensure the going concern basis of preparation of the results remains appropriate.

Meetings with auditors and senior finance team

The Audit Committee met with the senior finance team in advance of their meeting with the auditors, prior to commencement of the year end audit to discuss;

   --      Audit scope, strategy and objectives 
   --      Key audit and accounting matters 
   --      Independence and audit fee 

Further meetings were held following completion of the audit with the senior finance team and the auditors to assess the effectiveness of the audit and discuss audit findings.

Effectiveness of external audit process

The Committee conducts an annual review of the effectiveness of the annual report process. Inputs into the review include feedback from the finance team, planning and scope of the audit process and identification of risk, the execution of the audit, communication by the auditor with the Committee, how the audit adds value and a review of auditor independence and objectivity. Feedback is provided to the external auditor and management by the Committee, with any actions reviewed by the Committee.

Auditor independence and objectivity

The Committee has procedures in place to ensure that independence and objectivity is not impaired. These include restrictions on the types of services which the external Auditor can provide, in line with the FRC Ethical Standards on Auditing. The external auditors themselves have safeguards in place to ensure that objectivity and independence is maintained and the Committee regularly reviews independence taking into consideration relevant UK professional and regulatory requirements. The external auditors are required to rotate the audit partner responsible for the Group audit every five years.

Non-audit fees

The Committee reviews all non-audit work to ensure it is appropriate and the fees justified. In relation to the non-audit services provided by BDO LLP during the year, the Committee reviewed and approved management's reasons for selecting BDO LLP as the best placed adviser on a case-by-case basis. This decision was typically based on the merit of using BDO's existing knowledge of the Group.

In the future, to comply with new EU audit regulations, the Group will not be engaging Group's auditors for any non-audit work.

Appointment of external auditor

BDO LLP was appointed external auditor in 2006 following a tendering process. As explained on page 10, the Audit Committee intends to undertake a selection process for the appointment of the external auditor for the financial year ending 31 March 2018.

BDO LLP has confirmed to the Committee that they remain independent and have maintained internal safeguards to ensure that the objectivity of the engagement partner and audit staff is not impaired.

The Committee has considered the level of non-audit fees and the nature of non-audit services provided and is satisfied that auditor independence has been maintained. See also the note above in relation to fees for non-audit work.

Internal audit

The Audit Committee has considered the need for a separate internal audit function this year but does not consider it appropriate in view of the above controls, and in light of the size of the Group. The Group is certified to ISO 9001: 2008.

Internal controls and risk management

The Board has applied the internal control and risk management provisions of the Code by establishing a continuous process for identifying, evaluating and managing the significant risks faced by the Group. The Board regularly reviews the process, which has been in place from the start of the year to the date of approval of this report and which is in accordance with FRC guidance on risk management, internal control and related financial and business reporting. The Board is responsible for the Group's system of internal control and for reviewing its effectiveness. Such a system is designed to manage rather than eliminate risk of failure to achieve business objectives, and can only provide reasonable and not absolute assurance against misstatement or loss.

In compliance with the Code, the Audit Committee regularly reviews the effectiveness of the Group's systems of internal financial control and risk management. The Board's monitoring covers all controls, including financial, operational and compliance controls and risk management. It is based principally on reviewing reports from management to consider whether significant weaknesses and risks are effectively managed and, if applicable, considering the need for more extensive monitoring.

The Board has also performed a specific assessment for the purpose of this annual report. This assessment considers all significant aspects of internal control and risk management arising during the period covered by the report.

The key elements of the internal control and risk management systems are described below:

-- Clearly documented procedures contained in a series of manuals covering Group operations and management, which are subject to internal project audit and external audit as well as regular Board review.

-- An appropriate budgeting process where the business prepares budgets for the coming year, which are approved by the Board.

   --      Close involvement in the day to day management of the business by the executive Directors. 

-- Regular meetings between the executive Chairman, executive Director and senior managers to discuss and monitor potential risks to the business, and to implement mitigation plans to address them.

Remuneration Committee

The Remuneration Committee is responsible for setting remuneration for executive directors and the Chairman in accordance with the remuneration policy below. In addition, the Committee is responsible for recommending and monitoring the level and structure of remuneration for senior management.

The Group's Remuneration Committee is authorised to take appropriate counsel to enable it to discharge its duty to make recommendations to the Board in respect of all aspects of the remuneration package of Directors.

The Directors Remuneration Report can be found on page 18.

Whistleblowing

Staff may contact the senior independent non-executive Director, in confidence, to raise genuine concerns of possible improprieties in financial reporting or other matters.

Directors' training

Any new Board members are made fully aware of their duties and responsibilities as Directors of listed companies, and are supported in understanding and applying these by established and more experienced Directors. Further training is available for any Director at the Group's expense should the Board consider it appropriate in the interests of the Group.

Relations with shareholders

Substantial time and effort is spent by Board members on meetings with and presentations to existing and prospective investors. The views of shareholders derived from such meetings are disseminated by the Chairman to other Board members.

Private shareholders are invited to attend and participate at the Annual General Meeting.

Terms of reference

The terms of reference of the Audit and Remuneration Committees are available on request from the Company Secretary.

Statement of compliance

The Board considers that it has been compliant with the provisions of the Code for the whole of the period, except as detailed below:

 
 A.2.1       The roles of chairman and chief executive 
              should not be exercised by the same 
              individual. John Rigg is the Executive 
              Chairman. The Board currently has no 
              plans to recruit a Chief Executive Officer 
              as it considers that the duties are 
              being satisfactorily covered by members 
              of the Executive Board and the Group's 
              senior management. 
 B.2.1/2.4   There should be a nominations committee 
              which should lead the process for board 
              appointments and make recommendations 
              to the board. The Board considers that 
              because of its size, the whole Board 
              should be involved in Board appointments. 
 B.6         The board should undertake a formal 
              and rigorous annual evaluation of its 
              own performance and that of its committees 
              and individual directors. There is a 
              process of continuous informal evaluation, 
              due to the small size of the Board. 
 B.2.3       Non-executive directors should be appointed 
              for specified terms subject to re-election. 
              Although not appointed for fixed terms, 
              Non-executive Directors are subject 
              to re-election in accordance with the 
  B.7.1       Company's Articles of Association at 
              the Annual General Meeting. Their contracts 
              are subject to a notice period that 
              does not exceed one month. 
              Non-executive directors who have served 
              longer than nine years should be subject 
              to annual re-election. The Board consider 
              that because of its size, re-election 
              by rotation in accordance with the Company's 
              Articles of Association at the Annual 
              General Meeting is sufficient. 
 

By order of the Board

Nick Burrows

Company Secretary

9 June 2017

Directors' Remuneration report

On the following pages we set out the Remuneration Report for the year ended 31 March 2017. The members of the Remuneration Committee are shown in the Corporate Governance Report on page 13.

This report has been prepared in accordance with the Companies Act 2006 and is split into two sections as follows;

   1.   The Directors' remuneration policy. 

2. The Annual report on remuneration. This will be subject to an advisory shareholder vote at this years' Annual General Meeting.

No major decisions or changes were made to Directors' remuneration during the year.

Directors' remuneration policy

The remuneration policy sets out the framework within which the Company remunerates its Directors. The Company's remuneration policy was put to a shareholder vote at the 2016 Annual General Meeting of the Company and was approved by 100% of shareholders. There is no requirement to vote on the policy in 2017 unless any changes to the policy are proposed, and the Committee does not intend making any changes to the policy at this time.

Policy table - executive Directors

 
   Element           Relevance             Operation             Maximum            Performance 
                      to short                                    payable             metrics 
                      and long 
                   term strategic 
                     objectives 
-------------  --------------------  --------------------  -------------------  ------------------ 
 Base salary    Reflects              Reviewed              Ordinarily,          None, although 
                 the individual's      annually              salary increases     individual 
                 skills,               taking                will be              performance 
                 responsibilities      into consideration    in line              is considered 
                 and experience.       individual            with average         when setting 
                                       and companywide       increases            salary levels. 
                 Supports              performance           awarded 
                 the recruitment       and the               to other 
                 and retention         wider employee        employees 
                 of Executive          pay review            in the Company. 
                 Directors. 
-------------  --------------------  --------------------  -------------------  ------------------ 
 Benefits       Protects              Benefits              Benefits             None. 
  in kind        the well-being        in kind               are set 
                 of directors          include               at a level 
                 and provides          company               considered 
                 fair and              cars or               to be appropriate 
                 reasonable            allowances,           taking into 
                 market competitive    private               account 
                 benefits.             medical               individual 
                                       insurance,            circumstances 
                                       life cover 
                                       and permanent 
                                       health 
                                       insurance. 
                                       Benefits 
                                       are reviewed 
                                       periodically. 
-------------  --------------------  --------------------  -------------------  ------------------ 
 Pension        Provides              The Company           The Company          None. 
                 competitive           pays contributions    matches 
                 post-retirement       into a                individual 
                 benefits              personal              contributions 
                 to support            pension               up to a 
                 the recruitment       scheme                maximum 
                 and retention         or cash               of 5%. 
                 of Executive          alternative. 
                 Directors. 
-------------  --------------------  --------------------  -------------------  ------------------ 
 Share option   Encourages            The Company           The potential        Specific 
  scheme         share ownership       operates              value of             performance 
                 amongst               an EMI                options              criteria 
                 employees             share option          held rises           are specified 
                 and aligns            scheme.               as the Company's     at the time 
                 their interests       Discretionary         share price          of awarding 
                 with the              awards                increases.           the share 
                 shareholders.         are made                                   options 
                                       in accordance                              to ensure 
                                       with the                                   alignment 
                                       scheme                                     with the 
                                       rules.                                     interests 
                                                                                  of shareholders. 
-------------  --------------------  --------------------  -------------------  ------------------ 
 

The award of share options is at the discretion of the Remuneration Committee: there is no scheme providing entitlement to share options, and there is no long-term incentive scheme. The Group does not believe that performance related bonuses are appropriate at the present time. The Executive Directors' existing interests in shares and share options are expected to align their interests with those of shareholders.

Policy table - non-executive Directors

 
 Element      Relevance      Operation         Maximum           Performance 
               to short                        payable             metrics 
               and long 
            term strategic 
              objectives 
--------  ----------------  ----------  --------------------  ---------------- 
 Fees      Competitive       Reviewed    In general,           Not applicable. 
            fees to           annually    the level 
            attract                       of fee increase 
            experienced                   for 
            directors                     the non-executive 
                                          directors 
                                          will be 
                                          set 
                                          taking account 
                                          of 
                                          any change 
                                          in responsibility. 
--------  ----------------  ----------  --------------------  ---------------- 
 

The remuneration of the non-executive Directors is agreed by the Board. However, no Director is involved in deciding their own remuneration.

Approach to recruitment remuneration

The Group's remuneration policy is to provide remuneration packages which secure and retain management of the highest quality. Therefore, when determining the remuneration packages of new executive Directors, the Remuneration Committee will structure a package in accordance with the general policy for executive Directors as shown above. In doing so the Committee will consider a number of factors including:

   --      the salaries and benefits available to executive Directors of comparable companies; 
   --      the need to ensure executive Directors' commitment to the continued success of the Group; 
   --      the experience of each executive Director; and 
   --      the nature and complexity of the work of each executive Director. 

Directors' service contracts and policy

The details of the Directors' contracts are summarised as follows:

 
                 Date of contract   Notice period 
 
 J C Rigg        01/07/1999         1 month 
 A M Fulton      19/02/1997         1 month 
 S M Sanderson   01/01/2007         1 month 
 N E Burrows     03/03/2015         6 months 
 A Leer          03/03/2015         6 months 
 

All contracts are for an indefinite period. No contract has any provision for the payment of compensation upon the termination of that contract.

Illustrations of application of remuneration policy

As there are currently no performance related or variable elements of executive director remuneration it is not appropriate to prepare illustrations required under the legislation.

Policy on payment for loss of office

It is the Group's policy in relation to Directors' contracts that:

-- executive Directors should have contracts with an indefinite term providing for a maximum of six months' notice by either party.

-- non-executive Directors should have terms of engagement for an indefinite term providing for one month notice by either party.

   --      there is no provision for termination payments to Directors. 

Consideration of employment conditions elsewhere in group

In setting the executive Directors' remuneration the Committee takes into account the pay and employment conditions applicable across the Group in the reported period. As with employees elsewhere in the Group there were no substantial increases to Directors' remuneration terms since the prior year. No consultation has been held with employees in respect of executive Directors' remuneration.

Consideration of shareholders views

The policy is unchanged from the previous year as endorsed by the unanimous vote in favour of the approval of the Directors' Remuneration Report at the Annual General Meeting in August 2016.

Annual report on remuneration (audited)

Directors' remuneration - single total figure of remuneration

The remuneration of each of the Directors for the period they served as a Director are set out below:

 
 
                                2017 
 Director               Basic   Benefits   Pension     Total 
                       salary    in kind 
                     and fees 
                      GBP'000    GBP'000   GBP'000   GBP'000 
 Executive 
 
 J C Rigg                  25          -         -        25 
 N E Burrows               92         13        18       123 
 A Leer                   100          9         9       118 
 
 Non-executive 
 
 A M Fulton                40          -         -        40 
 S M Sanderson             20          -         -        20 
 
 
 
                                      2016 
 Director                 Basic   Benefits   Pension     Total 
                         salary    in kind 
                       and fees 
                        GBP'000    GBP'000   GBP'000   GBP'000 
 Executive 
 
 J C Rigg                    25          -         -        25 
 N E Burrows                 91         12        18       121 
 A Leer (appointed 
  3 March 2016)              99          8         9       116 
 
 Non-executive 
 
 A M Fulton                  25          -         -        25 
 S M Sanderson               20          -         -        20 
 

Benefits in kind include the provision of company car and medical insurance.

Pension includes a 5% employer contribution together with contributions made under an employee salary sacrifice scheme.

No performance measures or targets were in place for either the year ended 31 March 2017, or any prior financial year, upon which any variable pay elements could become payable during the year.

Two Directors are members of a money purchase scheme into which the Group made contributions during the year.

Payments to past Directors

There were no payments to past Directors during the year.

Payment for loss of office

There were no payments for loss of office during the year.

Directors' interests in shares

The Directors who held office at the end of the financial year had the following beneficial interests in the ordinary shares of the Company. No change has occurred between the year end and the date of this report.

 
                    1 April    31 March 
                       2016        2017 
 
 A M Fulton         354,100     354,100 
 J C Rigg         4,509,400   4,509,400 
 S M Sanderson      104,089     104,089 
 N E Burrows          7,893       9,893 
 A Leer               5,379       5,379 
 

Directors' share options

The interests of executive Directors in share options were as follows:

 
                 At beginning     Granted      Exercised      At end      Exercise   Exercise 
                    of year        during        during       of year       price     period 
                                    year          year 
 
 N E Burrows: 
 granted                                                                             07.08.11 
  07.08.08             25,000             -      (20,000)         5,000      14.0p    to 07.08.18 
 granted                                                                             23.09.14 
  23.09.11            100,000             -             -       100,000      13.5p    to 23.09.21 
 
 granted                                                                             18.09.17 
  18.09.14             25,000             -             -        25,000      11.0p    to 18.09.24 
 
 A Leer: 
 
 granted                                                                             23.09.14 
  23.09.11             50,000             -             -        50,000      13.5p    to 23.09.21 
                                          -             - 
 granted                                                                             18.09.17 
  18.09.14            100,000             -             -       100,000      11.0p    to 18.09.24 
 
                  -----------   -----------   -----------   ----------- 
                      300,000             -      (20,000)       280,000 
                  -----------   -----------   -----------   ----------- 
 

155,000 share options were exercisable at the end of the year (2016: 175,000).

Share options are exercisable provided that the relevant performance requirement has been satisfied.

-- that the Group shall have achieved positive earnings per share in any financial year commencing at least one year after the date of grant of the option. This performance requirement is the same as that applying to employee share options granted at the same time.

The total share based payment expense recognised in the year in respect of Directors' share options is GBP1,585 (2016: GBP1,585).

N E Burrows made a gain of GBP12,500 (2016: nil) on share options exercised during the year.

The market price of the Company's shares was 68.00p at 31 March 2017 and the range during the year was between 24.75p and 85.50p.

Annual Report on Remuneration (Unaudited)

Performance graph

The following graph shows the Group's performance, measured by total shareholder return, compared with the performance of the FTSE Fledgling Index ("FTSEFI") also measured by total shareholder return ("TSR"). The FTSEFI has been selected for this comparison because it is an index of companies with similar current market capitalisation to Triad Group Plc.

Chief executive remuneration

There have been no changes to the remuneration of the Executive Chairman during the year.

Relative importance of spend on pay

The total dividends or other cash distributions to shareholders during the year was GBPnil (2016: GBPnil). The total employee remuneration (including directors) during the year was GBP3,613m (2016: GBP3.308m).

Consideration of matters related to directors' remuneration

During the financial year the remuneration committee met three times to consider directors' remuneration. No external advice was sought in relation to matters discussed at these meetings.

Statement of voting at last general meeting

At the last annual general meeting the Directors' Remuneration Report was approved with 99.9% of votes cast in favour of the resolution. There were 4,507,951 votes withheld. There was no vote on the directors' remuneration policy as the policy was unchaged from that last voted on by shareholders.

Alistair Fulton

Chairman, Remuneration Committee

9 June 2017

Independent auditor report to the members of Triad Group Plc

Opinion on the financial statements

In our opinion:

-- the financial statements give a true and fair view of the state of the Group's and the Parent Company's affairs as at 31 March 2017 and of the Group's and Parent Company's profit for the year then ended;

-- the Group and the Parent Company financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) as adopted by the European Union; and

-- the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006; and, as regards the Group financial statements, Article 4 of the IAS Regulation.

The financial statements of Triad Group Plc for the year ended 31 March 2017 comprise:

   --      The Group and Parent Company statement of comprehensive income; 
   --      The Group and Parent Company statements of financial position; 
   --      The Group and Parent Company statements of changes in equity; 
   --      The Group and Parent Company statements of cash flows; and 
   --      The notes to the financial statements. 

The financial reporting framework that has been applied in the preparation of the Group and Parent Company financial statements is applicable law and IFRSs as adopted by the European Union.

Respective responsibilities of directors and auditor

As explained more fully in the statement of directors' responsibilities, the directors are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view. Our responsibility is to audit and express an opinion on the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and International Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland). Those standards require us to comply with the Financial Reporting Council's (FRC's) Ethical Standards for Auditors.

This report is made solely to the Company's members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the Company's members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Company and the Company's members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Our assessment of risks of material misstatement and overview of the scope of our audit

A description of the scope of an audit of financial statements is provided on the FRC's website at www.frc.org.uk/auditscopeukprivate.

Our Group audit was scoped by obtaining an understanding of the group and its environment, including the group's system of internal control, and assessing the risks of material misstatement in the financial statements at the group level.

We set out below the risk that had the greatest impact on our audit strategy and scope. The Audit Committee's consideration of these matters is set out on page 14:

 
 Risk of material misstatement   Our response to the 
                                  risks identified 
 
 Revenue recognition 
 Revenue is predominantly        Our procedures included 
  recognised on an approved       understanding and testing 
  timecard basis and we           the controls in respect 
  consider there to be            of billing from approved 
  a significant risk over         timecards, the controls 
  the completeness of             over invoicing and the 
  revenue at the year             resulting posting to 
  end due to missing or           the financial statements. 
  late timecards or contractor 
  invoices.                       We tested a sample of 
                                  approved timecards along 
  There is a presumed             with invoices raised 
  risk of fraud in relation       either side of the balance 
  to revenue recognition          sheet date and compared 
  due to the possibility          these to recorded revenue, 
  that management may             accrued revenue and 
  be motivated to achieve         costs and deferred revenue. 
  certain results.                Furthermore we tested 
                                  contractor purchase 
                                  invoices around the 
                                  year end to ensure they 
                                  and the corresponding 
                                  revenue invoices have 
                                  been recorded in the 
                                  correct period. 
 
                                  We reviewed and considered 
                                  journals posted to revenue 
                                  during the year. 
 

An overview of the scope of our audit

The Group financial statements are a consolidation of six companies made up of one trading company (the Parent Company) which provides consultancy and development services and five dormant companies. In establishing the overall approach to the Group audit, we determined the type of work that needed to be performed on each company. The Group operates solely in the United Kingdom. Our Group audit was scoped by obtaining an understanding of the Group and its environment, including the group's system of internal control, and assessing the risks of material misstatement in the financial statements at the Group level.

Based on our assessment we performed an audit of the complete financial information of the Parent Company as the only trading company.

In our audit, we tested and examined information, using sampling and other auditing techniques, to the extent we considered necessary to provide a reasonable basis for us to draw conclusions. Our audit evidence was largely obtained through substantive procedures.

Our application of materiality

We apply the concept of materiality both in planning and performing our audit, and in evaluating the effect of misstatements. For planning, we consider materiality to be the magnitude by which misstatements, including omissions, could influence the economic decisions of reasonable users that are taken on the basis of the financial statements.

The materiality for the group financial statements as a whole was set at GBP300,000. This was determined with reference to a benchmark of revenue (of which it represents one per cent) which we consider to be one of the principal considerations for members of the company in assessing the financial performance of the group.

Performance materiality was set at seventy per cent of the above materiality level.

Materiality levels are not significantly different from those applied in the previous year.

We agreed with the Audit Committee that we would report to the committee all individual audit differences in excess of GBP6,000. We also agreed to report differences below this threshold that, in our view, warranted reporting on qualitative grounds.

Opinion on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

In our opinion the part of the directors' remuneration report to be audited has been properly prepared in accordance with the Companies Act 2006.

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit;

-- the information given in the strategic report and directors' report for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and

-- the strategic report and directors' report have been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements;.

Statement regarding the directors' assessment of principal risks, going concern and longer term viability of the company

We have nothing material to add or to draw attention to in relation to:

-- the directors' confirmation in the annual report that they have carried out a robust assessment of the principal risks facing the entity, including those that would threaten its business model, future performance, solvency or liquidity;

-- the disclosures in the annual report that describe those risks and explain how they are being managed or mitigated;

-- the directors' statement in the financial statements about whether they considered it appropriate to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing them and their identification of any material uncertainties to the entity's ability to continue to do so over a period of at least twelve months from the date of approval of the financial statements; or

-- the directors' explanation in the annual report as to how they have assessed the prospects of the entity, over what period they have done so and why they consider that period to be appropriate, and their statement as to whether they have a reasonable expectation that the entity will be able to continue in operation and meet its liabilities as they fall due over the period of their assessment, including any related disclosures drawing attention to any necessary qualifications or assumptions

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

We have nothing to report in respect of the following:

Under the ISAs (UK and Ireland), we are required to report to you if, in our opinion, information in the annual report is:

   --      materially inconsistent with the information in the audited financial statements; or 

-- apparently materially incorrect based on, or materially inconsistent with, our knowledge of the Group acquired in the course of performing our audit; or

   --      is otherwise misleading. 

In particular, we are required to consider whether we have identified any inconsistencies between our knowledge acquired during the audit and the directors' statement that they consider the annual report is fair, balanced and understandable and whether the annual report appropriately discloses those matters that we communicated to the Audit Committee which we consider should have been disclosed.

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the group and the parent company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the strategic report or the directors' report

Under the Companies Act 2006 we are required to report to you if, in our opinion:

-- adequate accounting records have not been kept by the parent company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or

-- the parent company financial statements and the part of the directors' remuneration report to be audited are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or

   --      certain disclosures of directors' remuneration specified by law are not made; or 
   --      we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit. 

Under the Listing Rules we are required to review:

-- the directors' statements, set out on pages 5 and 10, in relation to going concern and in relation to longer-term viability; and

-- the part of the corporate governance statement relating to the Company's compliance with the provisions of the UK Corporate Governance Code specified for review by the auditor in accordance with Listing Rule 9.8.10 R(2). We have nothing to report in respect of these matters.

Anna Draper (senior statutory auditor)

For and on behalf of BDO LLP, statutory auditor

London

United Kingdom

Statements of comprehensive income and expense

for the year ended 31 March 2017

 
 Group and Company                     Note            2017            2016 
                                                    GBP'000         GBP'000 
 
 Revenue                                             30,912          28,317 
 
 Cost of sales                                     (25,912)        (24,081) 
                                              -------------   ------------- 
 
 Gross profit                                         5,000           4,236 
 
 Administrative expenses                            (3,453)         (3,256) 
                                              -------------   ------------- 
 Profit from operations                   5           1,547             980 
 
 Finance expense                          6            (31)           (118) 
 
 Finance income                                           5               1 
                                              -------------   ------------- 
 
 Profit before tax                                    1,521             863 
 
 Tax credit                               8              13             350 
 
                                              -------------   ------------- 
 Profit for the year and total 
  comprehensive income attributable 
  to equity holders of the parent                     1,534           1,213 
                                              -------------   ------------- 
 
 
 Basic earnings per share                10          10.08p           8.01p 
                                                  ---------       --------- 
 
 Diluted earnings per share              10           9.55p           7.72p 
                                                  ---------       --------- 
 
 
 

All amounts relate to continuing activities.

Statements of changes in equity

for the year ended 31 March 2017

 
 Group 
 
                           Share       Share       Capital    Retained       Total 
                         Capital     premium    redemption    earnings 
                                     account       reserve 
                         GBP'000     GBP'000       GBP'000     GBP'000     GBP'000 
 
 At 1 April 2015             151         562           104          22         839 
 
 Profit for the 
  year and total 
  comprehensive 
  income                       -           -             -       1,213       1,213 
 
 Share-based 
  payments                     -           -             -           4           4 
 
                        --------    --------      --------    --------    -------- 
 At 1 April 2016             151         562           104       1,239       2,056 
 
 Profit for the 
  year and total 
  comprehensive 
  income                       -           -             -       1,534       1,534 
 
 Ordinary shares 
  issued                       4          43             -           -          47 
 
 Share-based 
  payments                     -           -             -           2           2 
 
                        --------    --------      --------    --------    -------- 
 At 31 March 
  2017                       155         605           104       2,775       3,639 
                       ---------   ---------     ---------   ---------   --------- 
 
 
 
   Company 
                           Share       Share       Capital    Retained       Total 
                         Capital     premium    redemption    earnings 
                                     account       reserve 
                         GBP'000     GBP'000       GBP'000     GBP'000     GBP'000 
 
 At 1 April 2015             151         562           104          17         834 
 
 Profit for the 
  year and total 
  comprehensive 
  income                       -           -             -       1,213       1,213 
 
 Share-based 
  payments                     -           -             -           4           4 
 
                        --------    --------      --------    --------    -------- 
 At 1 April 2016             151         562           104       1,234       2,051 
 
 Profit for the 
  year and total 
  comprehensive 
  income                       -           -             -       1,534       1,534 
 Ordinary shares 
  issued                       4          43             -           -          47 
 
 Share-based 
  payments                     -           -             -           2           2 
 
                        --------    --------      --------    --------    -------- 
 At 31 March 
  2017                       155         605           104       2,770       3,634 
                       ---------   ---------     ---------   ---------   --------- 
 
 

Share capital represents the amount subscribed for share capital at nominal value.

The share premium account represents the amount subscribed for share capital in excess of the nominal value.

The capital redemption reserve represents the nominal value of the purchase and cancellation of its own shares by the Company in 2002.

Retained earnings represents the cumulative net gains and losses recognised in the statement of comprehensive income and expense.

Statements of financial position

at 31 March 2017

Registered number: 2285049

 
                                               Group                      Company 
                              Note          2017          2016          2017          2016 
                                         GBP'000       GBP'000       GBP'000       GBP'000 
 Non-current assets 
 Intangible assets              11             8            13             8            13 
 Property, plant 
  and equipment                 12           134           120           134           120 
 Deferred tax                    8           361           350           361           350 
                                      ----------    ----------    ----------    ---------- 
                                             503           483           503           483 
                                      ----------    ----------    ----------    ---------- 
 Current assets 
 Trade and other 
  receivables                   14         5,051         4,683         5,051         4,683 
 Cash and cash equivalents      15         2,248           955         2,248           955 
                                      ----------    ----------    ----------    ---------- 
                                           7,299         5,638         7,299         5,638 
                                      ----------    ----------    ----------    ---------- 
 Total assets                              7,802         6,121         7,802         6,121 
                                      ----------    ----------    ----------    ---------- 
 Current liabilities 
 Trade and other 
  payables                      16       (3,702)       (3,496)       (3,707)       (3,501) 
 Financial liabilities          17          (11)           (7)          (11)           (7) 
 Short term provisions          18         (405)         (254)         (405)         (254) 
                                      ----------    ----------    ----------    ---------- 
                                         (4,118)       (3,757)       (4,123)       (3,762) 
                                      ----------    ----------    ----------    ---------- 
 Non-current liabilities 
 Financial liabilities          17           (-)          (11)           (-)          (11) 
 Long term provisions           18          (45)         (297)          (45)         (297) 
                                      ----------    ----------    ----------    ---------- 
                                            (45)         (308)          (45)         (308) 
                                      ----------    ----------    ----------    ---------- 
 Total liabilities                       (4,163)       (4,065)       (4,168)       (4,070) 
                                      ----------    ----------    ----------    ---------- 
 Net assets                                3,639         2,056         3,634         2,051 
                                     -----------   -----------   -----------   ----------- 
 
 Shareholders' equity 
 Share capital                  19           155           151           155           151 
 Share premium account                       605           562           605           562 
 Capital redemption 
  reserve                                    104           104           104           104 
 Retained earnings                         2,775         1,239         2,770         1,234 
                                      ----------    ----------    ----------    ---------- 
 Total shareholders' 
  equity                                   3,639         2,056         3,634         2,051 
                                      ----------    ----------    ----------    ---------- 
 

The financial statements on pages 28 to 50 were approved by the Board of Directors and authorised for issue on 9 June 2017 and were signed on its behalf by:

   Nick Burrows                                       Alistair Fulton 
   Director                                                Director 

Triad Group Plc is registered in England and Wales with registered number 2285049.

Statements of cash flows

for the year ended 31 March 2017

 
 Group and company                 Note             2017             2016 
                                                 GBP'000          GBP'000 
 Cash flows from operating 
  activities 
 Profit for the year before 
  taxation                                         1,521              863 
 Adjustments for: 
 Depreciation of property, 
  plant and equipment                                 60               46 
 Amortisation/impairment 
  of intangible assets                                 5              107 
 Interest expense                                      4               10 
 Finance income                                        -                - 
 Share-based payment expense                           2                4 
 
 Changes in working capital 
 Increase in trade and 
  other receivables                                (367)            (672) 
 Increase in trade and 
  other payables                                     205              363 
 Decrease in provisions                            (101)             (90) 
                                          --------------   -------------- 
 Cash generated by operations                      1,329              631 
 Interest paid                                       (4)             (10) 
 Tax received                                          2                - 
                                          --------------   -------------- 
 Net cash flows from operating 
 activities                                        1,327              621 
                                          --------------   -------------- 
 
 Investing activities 
 Purchase of intangible 
  assets                                               -              (8) 
 Purchase of property, 
  plant and equipment                               (74)             (42) 
                                          --------------   -------------- 
 Net cash used in investing 
  activities                                        (74)             (50) 
                                          --------------   -------------- 
 
 Financing activities 
 Proceeds of issue of shares                          47                - 
 Finance lease principal 
  payments                                           (7)              (6) 
                                          --------------   -------------- 
 Net cash flows from financing 
 activities                                           40              (6) 
                                          --------------   -------------- 
 
 Net increase in cash and 
  cash equivalents                                 1,293              565 
 
 Cash and cash equivalents 
  at beginning of the period                         955              390 
                                          --------------   -------------- 
 Cash and cash equivalents 
  at end of the period             15              2,248              955 
                                          --------------   -------------- 
 
 

Notes to the financial statements

for the year ended 31 March 2017

1. Principal accounting policies

Basis of preparation

The principal accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the financial statements are set out below. The policies have been consistently applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated.

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS and IFRIC interpretations), as adopted by the European Union (EU), issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and with those parts of the Companies Act 2006 applicable to companies preparing their accounts under IFRS.

These financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis.

These financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis and are presented in sterling, the functional currency of the Group.

Basis of consolidation

Where the Company has control over an investee, it is classified as a subsidiary. The Company controls an investee if all three of the following elements are present: power over the investee, exposure to variable returns from the investee and the ability of the investor to use its power to affect those variable returns. The consolidated financial statements present the results of the Company and its subsidiaries ("the Group") as if they formed a single entity. Intercompany transactions and balances between Group companies are therefore eliminated in full.

Property, plant and equipment

Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and any impairment in value.

Depreciation is calculated so as to write off the cost of assets, less their estimated residual values, on a straight line basis over the expected useful economic lives of the assets concerned. The principal annual rates used for this purpose are:

 
                      % 
Computer hardware   25-33 
Fixtures and 
 fittings           10-33 
Motor vehicles      25-33 
 

Intangible assets

Expenditure on internally developed products is capitalised if it can be demonstrated that:

-- it is technically feasible to develop the product so that it will be available for use or sale;

   --      adequate resources are available to complete the development; 
   --      there is an intention to complete the product and use or sell it; 
   --      it is able to be used or sold; 
   --      the product will generate future economic benefits, internally and/or externally; and 
   --      expenditure attributable to the development of the product can be measured reliably. 

Intangible assets are stated at cost, net of accumulated amortisation and any impairment in value. The cost of internally developed software is the attributable salary costs and directly attributable overheads.

Amortisation is calculated so as to write off the cost of assets, less their estimated residual values, on a straight line basis over the expected useful economic lives of the assets concerned. Amortisation is charged to administration expenses in the statement of comprehensive income and expense. The principal annual rates used for this purpose are:

 
                         % 
Purchased computer 
 software              25-33 
Internally developed 
 software              10-25 
 

Impairment of non-financial assets

Non-financial assets are subject to impairment tests whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable. Where the carrying value of an asset exceeds its recoverable amount the asset is written down accordingly. Impairment is charged to administration expenses in the statements of comprehensive income and expense.

Trade and other receivables

Trade and other receivables are recognised initially at fair value, and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less provision for impairment.

Amounts are charged to an impairment account when there is objective evidence that an impairment loss has occurred. Amounts are written off against the carrying amount of trade receivables when it is certain that the receivable will not be realised.

Cash

Cash in the balance sheet comprises cash held on demand with banks. For the purpose of the consolidated cash flow statement, cash and cash equivalents consist of cash, as defined above, net of bank borrowings due on demand.

Trade and other payables

Trade and other payables are recognised initially at fair value, and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Borrowings

Borrowings are recognised initially at fair value, and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Leases

Costs in respect of operating leases are charged to the statement of comprehensive income and expense on a straight line basis over the lease term.

Finance lease payments are apportioned between the finance charge and the reduction of the outstanding liability. The finance charge is allocated so as to produce a constant periodic rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability.

Foreign currencies

Assets and liabilities expressed in foreign currencies are translated into sterling at the exchange rate ruling on the balance sheet date. Transactions in foreign currencies are recorded at the exchange rate ruling as at the date of the transaction. All differences on exchange are taken to the statement of comprehensive income and expense in the year in which they arise.

Revenue

Revenue, which excludes value added tax, represents the invoiced value of goods and services supplied: where a service has been provided, but not yet invoiced, the amount is included in the financial statements as accrued income.

Income from consultancy contracts, which are on a time hire basis, is recognised as the services are provided.

Income from maintenance and fixed price consultancy and development contracts, is recognised over the life of the contract, using the percentage of completion method, and is deferred to the extent that it has not been earned.

Taxation

The charge for taxation is based on the profit or loss for the year as adjusted for disallowable items. It is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date.

Full provision is made for deferred tax on all temporary differences resulting from the difference between the carrying value of an asset or liability and its tax base, and on tax losses carried forward indefinitely. Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that the deferred tax asset will be recovered in the foreseeable future. Deferred tax is calculated at the tax rates that are expected to apply to the period when the asset is realised or liability is settled.

Pension costs

Contributions to defined contribution plans are charged to the statements of comprehensive income and expense as the contributions accrue.

Share-based payments

Share-based incentive arrangements are provided to employees under the Group's share option scheme. Share options granted to employees are valued at the date of grant using an appropriate option pricing model and are charged to operating profit over the performance or vesting period of the scheme. The annual charge is modified to take account of shares forfeited by employees who leave during the performance or vesting period and, in the case of non-market related performance conditions, where it becomes unlikely the option will vest.

Provisions

A provision is recognised when the Group has a legal or constructive obligation as a result of a past event and it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation. If the effect is material, expected future cash flows are discounted using a current pre-tax rate that reflects the risks specific to the liability. Calculations of these provisions require judgements to be made. The Group has provided for property dilapidation and vacant property as detailed in note 18.

New standards and interpretations

The Group has adopted with effect from 1 April 2016 certain mandatory new standards, amendments and interpretations. Adoption of these standards, amendments and interpretations did not have any impact on the results, cash flows or financial position of the Group or their presentation.

There are also certain standards, amendments and interpretations which have been issued but which are not yet mandatory (and in some cases had not yet been adopted by the EU). The Group has not applied these standards and interpretations in the preparation of these financial statements.

IFRS 15 'Revenue from Contracts' was published in May 2014 and will be effective for the Group from 1 April 2018, replacing IAS 18 'Revenue'. The standard specifies how and when to recognise revenue. The impact of future adoption of IFRS 15 is under review.

IFRS 16 'Leases' was published in January 2016 and will be effective for the Group from 1 April 2019, replacing IAS 17 'Leases' subject to EU endorsement. The standard requires lessees to recognise assets and liabilities for all leases unless the lease term is 12 months or less or the underlying asset is of low value. The impact of future adoption of IFRS 16 is under review.

The Directors do not anticipate that the adoption of other standards and amendments will have a material impact on the Group's financial statements in the period of initial application.

2. Critical accounting estimates and judgements

Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. The Group makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates will, by definition, seldom equal the related actual results. The estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are discussed below.

Surplus property

Provision has been made to meet the estimated liabilities of any property surplus to the requirements of the business. All ongoing costs net of estimated future rental income are charged to the provision. The provision is discounted, unless the effect of the time value of money is not material (see note 18).

Management exercises judgement in estimating costs, rental incomes and the discount rate used in the calculation of the provision.

Were the discount rate to increase or decrease by 1% this would increase or decrease net income and equity by GBP2,000.

Were 50% of the vacant property to be let through to the end of the lease at a rent that was the same as the rent paid, this would increase net income and equity by GBP120,000.

Deferred tax asset

A deferred tax asset of GBP361,000 (2016: GBP350,000) has been recognised in accordance with the accounting policy on page 35. A deferred tax asset of GBP732,000 (2016: GBP1,081,000) has not been recognised due to the assumptions and judgments made by management on the certainty and timing of future profits.

3. Financial risk management

The Group uses financial instruments that are necessary to facilitate its ordinary purchase and sale activities, namely cash, bank borrowings in the form of a receivables finance facility and trade payables and receivables: the resultant risks are foreign exchange risk, interest rate risk, credit risk and liquidity risk. The Group does not use financial derivatives in its management of these risks.

The Board reviews and agrees policies for managing these risks and they are summarised below. These policies are consistent with last year.

   3.1   Financial risk factors 

Foreign exchange risk

There are a small number of routine trading contracts with both suppliers and clients in euros. In all such circumstances the "back to back" contracts with supplier and client will be in the same currency thereby mitigating the Group's exposure to movements in exchange rates. Payments and receipts are made through a bank account in the currency of the contract therefore balances held in any foreign currency are to facilitate day to day transactions. With a functional currency of sterling there are the following foreign currency net assets:

 
 Group and company              Note        2017        2016 
                                         GBP'000     GBP'000 
 Currency: Euros 
 
 Net cash                         15          37          47 
 Trade and other receivables      14          25          20 
 Trade and other payables         16        (27)        (24) 
                                        --------    -------- 
                                              35          43 
                                       ---------   --------- 
 

Any change in currency rates would have no significant effect on results.

Interest rate risk

The Group's interest rate risk arises from its borrowings, which are at a rate that fluctuates in relation to movements in bank base rate. This facility, as detailed in note 17, is secured by way of a debenture over all assets. At the year-end borrowing under this facility totalled GBPnil (2016: GBPnil).

Cash balances are held in short term interest bearing accounts, repayable on demand: these attract interest rates which fluctuate in relation to movements in bank base rate. This maintains liquidity and does not commit the Group to long term deposits at fixed rates of interest.

A 1% change in interest rates would have changed net income and equity by GBP1,000 (2016: GBP4,000).

Credit risk

The Group is mainly exposed to credit risk from credit sales. It is Group policy to assess the credit risk of new customers before entering into contracts. Each new customer is assessed, using external ratings and relevant information in the public domain, before any credit limit is granted. In addition, trade receivables balances are monitored on a regular basis to minimise exposure to bad debts. The amount charged to the income statement during the year in respect of bad debts was GBP69,000 being 0.22% of revenue (2016: GBP12,000).

The Group is also exposed to credit risk from accrued income, being revenue earned but not yet invoiced (note 14).

Financial assets that are past due but not impaired are analysed in note 14. Each balance has been reviewed by management to assess its recoverability.

The Group also has credit risk from cash deposits with banks (note 15).

The Group's maximum exposure to credit risk is:

 
                                Note         2017         2016 
                                          GBP'000      GBP'000 
 
 Trade and other receivables      14        4,048        3,489 
 Accrued income                   14          757        1,036 
 Cash and cash equivalents        15        2,248          955 
                                       ----------   ---------- 
                                            7,053        5,480 
                                        ---------    --------- 
 

Liquidity risk

The Group's liquidity risk arises from its management of working capital. The Group has a facility to borrow an amount up to 90% of approved trade debtors subject to a maximum limit of GBP2.5m. The facility may be terminated by either party with one month's written notice. The Board receives regular cash flow and working capital projections to enable it to monitor its available headroom under this facility. At the balance sheet date these projections indicated that the Group expected to have sufficient liquid resources to meet its reasonably expected obligations. Maturity of financial liabilities is set out in notes 16 and 17.

Capital risk management

The Group's capital comprises both borrowings and shareholders' equity. Its objectives when managing capital are to safeguard the Group's ability to continue as a going concern in order to maximise shareholder value. To maintain or adjust the capital structure the Group may adjust the dividend payment to shareholders, return capital to shareholders, issue new shares or alter the level of borrowings.

   3.2   Fair value estimation 

The carrying value of financial assets and liabilities approximate their fair values.

   4.   Revenue 

The Group operates solely in the UK. All material revenues are generated in the UK.

53% (2016: 40%) of revenue was generated in the public sector. The largest single customer contributed 27% of Group revenue and was in the public sector. In 2016, the largest single customer contributed 24% of Group revenue and was in the private sector.

   5.   Profit from operations 
 
                                        2017       2016 
                                     GBP'000    GBP'000 
Profit from operations is stated 
 after charging: 
Depreciation of owned assets              60         46 
Amortisation of intangible 
 assets                                    5         38 
Impairment of intangible assets            -         69 
Operating leases for land and 
 buildings                               489        479 
 Other operating leases                   44         50 
Impairment of receivables                 69         12 
Auditors' remuneration: 
  Audit of financial statements: 
   Group and company                      53         50 
  Taxation compliance services             4          5 
                                   ---------  --------- 
 
 
 
 

6. Finance expense

 
                                   2017          2016 
                                GBP'000       GBP'000 
 
Bank interest payable                 3             8 
Other interest payable                1             2 
                               --------      -------- 
Total interest expense                4            10 
Unwinding of discount on 
 provisions                          27           108 
                               --------      -------- 
Total finance expense                31           118 
                              ---------     --------- 
 
   7.   Employees and directors 
 
 Group and company                        2017        2016 
                                        Number      Number 
 Average number of persons 
  (including executive Directors) 
  employed 
 
 Senior management                           5           4 
 Fee earners                                27          26 
 Sales                                      13          14 
 Administration and finance                  8           8 
                                     ---------   --------- 
                                            53          52 
                                     ---------   --------- 
 
 Staff costs for the above                2017        2016 
  persons (including executive         GBP'000     GBP'000 
  Directors) 
 
 Wages and salaries                      3,291       3,040 
 Social security costs                     381         358 
 Defined contribution pension 
  costs                                    320         264 
 Equity settled share-based 
  payments                                   2           4 
                                     ---------   --------- 
                                         3,994       3,666 
                                     ---------   --------- 
 
 
                                              2017        2016 
 Directors                                 GBP'000     GBP'000 
 
 Emoluments                                    299         280 
 Money purchase pension contributions           27          27 
                                          --------    -------- 
                                               326         307 
                                         ---------   --------- 
 

Two Directors (2016: two) had retirement benefits accruing under money purchase pension schemes.

   8.   Tax credit 
 
                                       2017       2016 
                                    GBP'000    GBP'000 
 
Current tax 
Current tax on profits for                -          - 
 the year 
Research and development 
 tax credit relating to earlier         (2)          - 
 period 
Deferred tax 
 
Increase in recognised deferred 
 tax asset                             (11)      (350) 
                                   --------   -------- 
Total tax credit for the 
 year                                  (13)      (350) 
                                  ---------  --------- 
 

The differences between the actual tax credit for the year and the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK applied to profits for the year are as follows:

 
                                        2017       2016 
                                     GBP'000    GBP'000 
 
Profit before tax                      1,521        863 
Profit before tax multiplied 
 by standard rate of corporation 
 tax in the UK of 20% (2016: 
 21%)                                    304        173 
Research and development 
 tax credit relating to earlier          (2)          - 
 period 
Expenses not deductible for 
 tax purposes                              8         24 
Brought forward losses utilised 
 against taxable profits                   -      (197) 
Recognition of previously 
 unrecognised deferred tax 
 on losses                             (323)      (350) 
                                    --------   -------- 
Tax credit for the year                 (13)      (350) 
                                   ---------  --------- 
 
                                        2017       2016 
                                     GBP'000    GBP'000 
Deferred tax asset 
 
The movement in deferred 
 tax is as follows: 
At beginning of the year                 350          - 
 
Utilisation against taxable 
 profits                               (312)          - 
Recognition of previously 
 unrecognised deferred tax 
 on losses                               342        316 
(Decrease)/increase in relation 
 to timing differences                  (15)         34 
Rate change                              (4)          - 
                                    --------   -------- 
At end of the year                       361        350 
                                   ---------  --------- 
 
 

Deferred tax assets have been recognised in respect of tax losses where the Directors believe it is probable that the assets will be recovered. A deferred tax asset amounting to GBP732,000 (2016: GBP1,081,000) has not been recognised in respect of trading losses, which can be carried forward indefinitely.

   9.   Dividends 

Dividend paid on equity shares during the year: nil (2016: nil)

Proposed final dividend on equity shares: 0.5p per share (2016: nil), totalling GBP77,448 (2016: nil). This dividend has not been accrued in the statements of financial position.

Subject to shareholder approval at the Annual General Meeting, the Company will pay the proposed dividend on Tuesday 7 September 2017 to all shareholders on the register of members of the Company at the close of business on 11 August 2017 (the "Record Date").

10. Earnings per ordinary share

Earnings per share have been calculated on the profit for the year divided by the weighted average number of shares in issue during the period based on the following:

 
                                             2017             2016 
 
Profit for the year                  GBP1,534,000     GBP1,213,000 
                                   --------------   -------------- 
 
Average number of shares 
 in issue                              15,219,826       15,149,579 
 
Effect of dilutive options                848,437          554,919 
                                        _________        _________ 
Average number of shares 
 in issue plus dilutive options        16,068,263       15,704,498 
                                   --------------   -------------- 
 
Basic earnings per share                   10.08p            8.01p 
                                        ---------        --------- 
 
Diluted earnings per share                  9.55p            7.72p 
                                        ---------        --------- 
 
   11.    Intangible assets 
 
Group and company                     Purchased  Internally      Total 
                                       software   developed 
                                                   software 
                                        GBP'000     GBP'000    GBP'000 
 
Cost 
At 31 March 2015                            264       1,110      1,374 
Additions                                     8           -          8 
                                       --------    --------   -------- 
At 31 March 2016                            272       1,110      1,382 
Additions                                     -           -          - 
                                       --------    --------   -------- 
At 31 March 2017                            272       1,110      1,382 
                                      ---------   ---------  --------- 
 
Accumulated amortisation/impairment 
At 31 March 2015                            255       1,007      1,262 
Charge for the 
 year                                         4          34         38 
Impairment                                    -          69         69 
                                       --------    --------   -------- 
At 31 March 2016                            259       1,110      1,369 
Charge for the 
 year                                         5           -          5 
                                       --------    --------   -------- 
At 31 March 2017                            264       1,110      1,374 
                                      ---------   ---------  --------- 
 
Net book value 
At 31 March 2017                              8           -          8 
                                      ---------   ---------  --------- 
At 31 March 2016                             13           -         13 
                                      ---------   ---------  --------- 
 
   12.    Property, plant and equipment 
 
Group and company           Computer     Fixtures      Motor 
                            hardware   & fittings   vehicles      Total 
                             GBP'000      GBP'000    GBP'000    GBP'000 
 
Cost 
At 31 March 2015                 302          706         42      1,050 
Additions                         29           13          -         42 
                            --------     --------   --------   -------- 
At 31 March 2016                 331          719         42      1,092 
Additions                         39           35          -         74 
                            --------     --------   --------   -------- 
At 31 March 2017                 370          754         42      1,166 
                           ---------    ---------  ---------  --------- 
 
Accumulated depreciation 
At 31 March 2015                 256          650         20        926 
Charge for the 
 year                             21           15         10         46 
                            --------     --------   --------   -------- 
At 31 March 2016                 277          665         30        972 
Charge for the 
 year                             28           22         10         60 
                            --------     --------   --------   -------- 
At 31 March 2017                 305          687         40      1,032 
                           ---------    ---------  ---------  --------- 
 
Net book value 
At 31 March 2017                  65           67          2        134 
                           ---------    ---------  ---------  --------- 
At 31 March 2016                  54           54         12        120 
                           ---------    ---------  ---------  --------- 
 
 
 

The net carrying amount of property, plant and equipment includes GBP2,000 (2016: GBP12,000) in respect of assets held under finance leases.

13. Investments

Company

Investments are:

(a) Generic Software Consultants Limited ("Generic"), a 100% subsidiary undertaking, in respect of both voting rights and issued shares, which is registered in England and Wales and has an issued share capital of 5,610 US$1 ordinary shares. The investment is stated in the Company's books at GBP440.

Up to 31 March 2009 Generic acted as an agent for the business, but did not enter into any transactions in its own right: its business was included within the figures reported by the Company. On 1 April 2009 the agency agreement was terminated and all business is now conducted directly by the parent company through its Generic business.

(b) Triad Special Systems Limited, Generic Online Limited, Zubed Geospatial Limited, Zubed Sales Limited, are all 100% subsidiaries which are registered in England and Wales. They are dormant companies, which have never traded. Each has a share capital of GBP1.

The registered office of Triad Special Systems is Huxley House, Weyside Park, Catteshall Lane, Godalming, Surrey GU7 1XE. The registered office of the other subsidiaries is 37 Sunningdale House, Caldecotte Lake Drive, Caldecotte, Milton Keynes MK7 8LF.

14. Trade and other receivables

 
Group and company                     2017       2016 
                                   GBP'000    GBP'000 
 
Trade receivables                    4,081      3,507 
Less: provision for impairment 
 of trade receivables                 (33)       (18) 
                                  --------   -------- 
Trade receivables-net                4,048      3,489 
 
Accrued income                         757      1,036 
                                  --------   -------- 
Trade and other receivables          4,805      4,525 
 
Prepayments                            246        158 
                                  --------   -------- 
                                     5,051      4,683 
                                 ---------  --------- 
 

The fair value of trade and other receivables approximates closely to their book value.

Trade receivables are normally on 30 days payment terms. As at 31 March 2017 trade receivables of GBP1,011,000 (2016: GBP603,000) were past due but not impaired. They relate to customers with no default history. The total number of customer ledger balances at 31 March 2017 was 51 (2016: 65). The ageing analysis of these receivables is as follows:

 
Group and company             2017       2016 
                           GBP'000    GBP'000 
 
Up to 30 days past due         722        518 
30 to 60 days past due         136         63 
Over 60 days past due          153         22 
                          --------   -------- 
                             1,011        603 
                         ---------  --------- 
 

Movements on the provision for impairment of trade receivables is as follows:

 
Group and company                   2017       2016 
                                 GBP'000    GBP'000 
 
At beginning of the year              18         28 
Charged to income statement           67         12 
Credited to income statement           -       (22) 
Written off during the year         (52)          - 
                                --------   -------- 
At end of the year                    33         18 
                               ---------  --------- 
 

The carrying amount of the Group's trade and other receivables are denominated in the following currencies:

 
Group and company         2017       2016 
                       GBP'000    GBP'000 
 
Sterling                 4,780      4,505 
Euros                       25         20 
                      --------   -------- 
                         4,805      4,525 
                    ----------  --------- 
 

15. Cash and cash equivalents

 
Group and company               2017       2016 
                             GBP'000    GBP'000 
 
Cash available on demand       2,248        955 
                           ---------  --------- 
 

The fair value of cash and cash equivalents approximates closely to their book value.

The carrying amount of the Group's cash and cash equivalents is denominated in the following currencies:

 
Group and company        2017       2016 
                      GBP'000    GBP'000 
 
Sterling                2,211        908 
Euros                      37         47 
                     --------   -------- 
                        2,248        955 
                    ---------  --------- 
 

For the purpose of the consolidated cash flow statement, cash and cash equivalents consist of cash, as detailed above, net of bank borrowings repayable on demand.

16. Trade and other payables

 
                                   Group                Company 
                                 2017       2016       2017       2016 
                              GBP'000    GBP'000    GBP'000    GBP'000 
 
Trade payables                  2,568      1,945      2,568      1,945 
Accruals                          652        968        652        968 
Owed to subsidiary                  -          -          5          5 
                             --------   --------   --------   -------- 
                                3,220      2,913      3,225      2,918 
Deferred income                    82        109         82        109 
Other taxation and social 
 security                         400        474        400        474 
                             --------   --------   --------   -------- 
                                3,702      3,496      3,707      3,501 
                            ---------  ---------  ---------  --------- 
 

The maturity date of trade and other payables is as follows:

 
                        Group                Company 
                      2017       2016       2017       2016 
                   GBP'000    GBP'000    GBP'000    GBP'000 
 
Up to 3 months       2,698      2,637      2,703      2,642 
3 to 6 months          151        156        151        156 
6 to 12 months         371        120        371        120 
                  --------   --------   --------   -------- 
                     3,220      2,913      3,225      2,918 
                 ---------  ---------  ---------  --------- 
 

The fair value of trade and other payables approximates closely to their book value.

The carrying amount of trade and other payables is denominated in the following currencies:

 
                  Group                Company 
                2017       2016       2017       2016 
             GBP'000    GBP'000    GBP'000    GBP'000 
 
Sterling       3,193      2,889      3,198      2,894 
Euros             27         24         27         24 
            --------   --------   --------   -------- 
               3,220      2,913      3,225      2,918 
           ---------  ---------  ---------  --------- 
 

17. Financial liabilities

 
Group and company                2017       2016 
                              GBP'000    GBP'000 
 
  Current 
Finance lease obligations          11          7 
                            ---------  --------- 
 
  Non-current 
Finance lease obligations           -         11 
                            ---------  --------- 
 

The fair value of bank borrowings approximates closely to their book value.

The carrying amount of the Group's financial liabilities is all denominated in sterling.

Bank borrowings are in the form of a receivables finance facility to borrow an amount up to 90% of approved trade debtors subject to a maximum limit of GBP2.5m. This facility is secured by way of a debenture over all the assets of the Group. Bank borrowings are repayable upon demand. The balance at the year end was nil (2016: nil).

The receivables finance facility is included as part of cash and cash equivalents for the purpose of the cash flow statement as it forms an integral part of the Group's cash management.

18. Provisions

 
Group and company          Provision      Provision       Other      Total 
                                 for   for property   provision 
                              vacant   dilapidation 
                          properties 
 
                             GBP'000        GBP'000     GBP'000    GBP'000 
 
At 1 April 2016                  465             86           -        551 
 
Charged to income 
 statement                         -             25         115        140 
Utilised in year               (252)           (16)           -      (268) 
Unwinding of discount: 
 passage of time 
 (note 6)                         27              -           -         27 
                            --------       --------    --------   -------- 
At 31 March 2017                 240             95         115        450 
                         ---------        ---------   ---------  --------- 
 
 

The discount rate applied in the calculation of the provision for vacant properties is 5.95% (2016:

5.84%).

The maturity profile of the present value of provisions is as follows:

 
 
 
 
Group and company            Provision      Provision       Other      Total 
                                   for   for property   provision 
                     vacant properties   dilapidation 
 
                               GBP'000        GBP'000     GBP'000    GBP'000 
 
Current                            240             50         115        405 
Non-current                          -             45           -         45 
                               -------       --------    --------   -------- 
                                   240             95         115        450 
                             ---------      ---------   ---------  --------- 
 

The provision for vacant properties covers the anticipated future costs of rent, rates and other outgoings in respect of unoccupied property, less anticipated future rental income. It has been calculated on the basis of when the property is anticipated to be sub-let. These liabilities have been discounted therefore there is no material difference between the value of the provision recorded in the accounts and the fair value. The maturity profile of the carrying amount of this provision as at 31 March 2017 is as follows:

 
Group and company                          2017       2016 
                                        GBP'000    GBP'000 
 
In one year or less                         240        238 
In more than one year, but not more 
 than 2 years                                 -        227 
                                       --------   -------- 
                                            240        465 
                                      ---------  --------- 
 

The provision for property dilapidation covers the estimated future costs required to meet obligations under property leases to redecorate and repair property.

19. Share capital

 
                                                        2017              2016 
Ordinary shares of 1p each 
 
 Issued, called up and fully 
  paid: 
 Number                                           15,489,579        15,149,579 
 Nominal value                                    GBP154,896        GBP151,496 
 
                               During the year 340,000 1p ordinary shares were 
                               issued as a result of the exercise by employees 
                                                             of share options: 
                       Number   Option price      Increase in      Increase in 
                                                share capital    share premium 
 
                       55,000          14.0p           GBP550         GBP7,150 
                      285,000          13.5p         GBP2,850        GBP35,625 
                  -----------                      ----------      ----------- 
                      340,000                        GBP3,400        GBP42,775 
                  -----------                      ----------      ----------- 
 
 
 

20. Share-based payments

At 31 March 2017, 878,000 options granted under employee share option schemes remain outstanding:

 
 Date option     Number    Exercise   Period options exercisable 
  granted                   price 
 
 7 August                             7 August 2011 to 7 
  2008            78,000    14.0p      August 2018 
 23 September                         23 September 2014 to 
  2011           420,000    13.5p      23 September 2021 
 18 September                         18 September 2017 to 
  2014           380,000    11.0p      18 September 2024 
 

Under the terms of the scheme, options vest after after a period of three years continued employment and are subject to the following performance condition:

In any financial year commencing at least one year after the date of grant, the Company shall have achieved a positive basic earnings per share (subject to adjustment to exclude identified exceptional items), as reported in its audited annual accounts.

The options outstanding at 31 March 2017 had a weighted average remaining contractual life of 5.5 years (2016: 6.1 years).

Options have been valued using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. No performance conditions were included in the fair value calculations.

There were no options granted during the year (2016: nil).

The total expense recognised in the year is GBP2,000 (2016: GBP4,000).

A reconciliation of option movements over the year to 31 March 2017 is shown below:

 
                                    2017                         2016 
                                 Number    Weighted           Number    Weighted 
                             of options     average       of options     average 
                                           exercise                     exercise 
                                              price                        price 
                                              Pence                        Pence 
 
 Outstanding at start 
  of year                     1,268,000        12.8        1,476,000        17.4 
 
 Exercised                    (340,000)        13.6                -           - 
 
 Forfeited                     (50,000)        12.6         (32,000)        15.5 
 
 Lapsed                               -           -        (176,000)        51.5 
                         --------------   ---------   --------------   --------- 
 Outstanding at end 
  of year                       878,000        12.5        1,268,000        12.8 
                         --------------   ---------   --------------   --------- 
 
 Exercisable at end 
  of year                       498,000        13.6          868,000        13.6 
                         --------------   ---------   --------------   --------- 
 

There were 340,000 options exercised during the year. The above figures include options held by Directors which are set out in the Directors' Remuneration Report on page 22.

21. Commitments

The Group and Company had capital commitments totalling GBPnil at 31 March 2017 (31 March 2016: GBPnil).

The future aggregate minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases are:

 
                                        2017        2016 
                                     GBP'000     GBP'000 
 
 Not later than 1 year                   518         552 
 Later than 1 year and no later 
  than 5 years                           164         685 
                                   ---------   --------- 
                                         682       1,237 
                                   ---------   --------- 
 

22. Related party transactions

The Group and Company rents two of its offices under contracts expiring in 2018. The current annual rents of GBP395,000 were fixed, by independent valuation, at the last rent review in 2008. JC Rigg, a Director, has notified the Board that he has a 50% beneficial interest in these contracts. The balance owed at the year end was GBPnil (2016: GBPnil).

Key management comprises the Board of Directors and their remuneration is set out in the Directors' Remuneration Report on page 18.

Five year record

 
Consolidated income statement 
Years ended 31 March                 2017       2016       2015       2014       2013 
                                  GBP'000    GBP'000    GBP'000    GBP'000    GBP'000 
Revenue                            30,912     28,317     23,482     19,702     18,880 
Gross profit                        5,000      4,236      3,325      2,863      2,704 
Profit before tax                   1,521        863        352         11         28 
Tax credit                             13        350          -          -          - 
Profit after tax                    1,534      1,213        352         11         28 
Retained profit for the 
 financial year                     1,534      1,213        352         11         28 
Basic earnings per share 
 (pence)                            10.08       8.01       2.32       0.07       0.18 
                                ---------  ---------  ---------  ---------  --------- 
Balance sheet 
As at 31 March                       2017       2016       2015       2014       2013 
                                  GBP'000    GBP'000    GBP'000    GBP'000    GBP'000 
Non-current assets                    503        483        236        210        233 
Current assets                      7,299      5,638      4,401      3,544      3,343 
Current liabilities               (4,118)    (3,757)    (3,387)    (2,705)    (2,513) 
Non-current liabilities              (45)      (308)      (411)      (570)      (665) 
                                    _____      _____      _____      _____      _____ 
Net assets                          3,639      2,056        839        479        398 
                                ---------  ---------  ---------  ---------  --------- 
Share capital                         155        151        151        151        151 
Share premium account                 605        562        562        562        562 
Capital redemption reserve            104        104        104        104        104 
Retained earnings                   2,775      1,239         22      (338)      (419) 
                                    _____      _____      _____      _____      _____ 
Equity shareholders' 
 funds                              3,639      2,056        839        479        398 
                                ---------  ---------  ---------  ---------  --------- 
 

Shareholders' information and financial calendar

Share register

Equiniti maintain the register of members of the Company. If you have any questions about your personal holding of the Company's shares, please contact:

Equiniti

PO Box 4630

Aspect House

Spencer Road

Lancing

West Sussex

BN99 6QQ

Telephone: 0870 6015366

If you change your name or address or if the details on the envelope enclosing the report, including your postcode, are incorrect or incomplete, please notify the registrar in writing.

Shareholders' enquiries

If you have an enquiry about the Group's business, or about something affecting you as a shareholder (other than queries which are dealt with by the registrar) you should contact the Company Secretary, by letter or telephone at the Company's registered office.

Company Secretary and registered office:

Nick Burrows

Triad Group Plc

Weyside Park

Catteshall Lane

Godalming

Surrey

GU7 1XE

   Telephone:        01908 860222 
   Email:               investors@triad.co.uk 
   Website:           www.triad.co.uk 

Financial calendar

 
 Annual General Meeting          23 August 2017 
 
   Final dividend: payment     7 September 2017 
   date 
                                 11 August 2017 
   Final dividend: record 
   date 
 Financial year ended 31 
  March 2018: 
  expected announcement of 
  results 
 
 Half year                        November 2017 
 
 Full year                            June 2018 
 
 

Corporate information

 
 Executive Directors             Registered Auditors 
 
  John Rigg, Chairman             BDO LLP 
  Nick Burrows                    55 Baker Street 
  Adrian Leer                     London 
                                  W1U 7EU 
 Non-executive Directors         Brokers 
 
  Alistair Fulton                 Arden Partners plc 
  Steven Sanderson                125 Old Broad Street 
                                  London 
                                  EC2N 1AR 
 Secretary and registered        Solicitors 
  office 
                                  Freeths 
  Nick Burrows                    Davy Avenue 
  Triad Group Plc                 Knowlhill 
  Weyside Park                    Milton Keynes 
  Catteshall Lane                 MK5 8HJ 
  Godalming 
  Surrey                          Bankers 
  GU7 1XE 
                                  Lloyds Bank plc 
  Telephone: 01908 860222         City Office 
  Email: investors@triad.co.uk    11-15 Monument Street 
  Website: www.triad.co.uk        London 
                                  EC3V 9JA 
 Country of incorporation        Registrars 
  and domicile of parent 
  company                         Equiniti 
  United Kingdom                  Aspect House 
                                  Spencer Road 
  Legal form                      Lancing 
                                  West Sussex 
  Public limited company          BN99 6DA 
 Company number 
 
  2285049 
 

This information is provided by RNS

The company news service from the London Stock Exchange

END

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June 12, 2017 02:00 ET (06:00 GMT)

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