ADVFN Logo ADVFN

We could not find any results for:
Make sure your spelling is correct or try broadening your search.

Trending Now

Toplists

It looks like you aren't logged in.
Click the button below to log in and view your recent history.

Hot Features

Registration Strip Icon for alerts Register for real-time alerts, custom portfolio, and market movers

ANP Anpario Plc

255.00
0.00 (0.00%)
26 Apr 2024 - Closed
Delayed by 15 minutes
Share Name Share Symbol Market Type Share ISIN Share Description
Anpario Plc LSE:ANP London Ordinary Share GB00B3NWT178 ORD 23P
  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 10,628 08:00:00
Industry Sector Turnover Profit EPS - Basic PE Ratio Market Cap
Pesticides, Agric Chems, Nec 31M 2.53M 0.1053 24.22 61.23M

Anpario plc Final Results

06/03/2019 7:00am

UK Regulatory


Anpario (LSE:ANP)
Historical Stock Chart


From Apr 2019 to Apr 2024

Click Here for more Anpario Charts.
 
TIDMANP 
 
 

Anpario plc("Anpario" or the "Group")

 

Final Results

 

Anpario plc (AIM:ANP), the international producer and distributor of natural animal feed additives for animal health, nutrition and biosecurity is pleased to announce its full year results for the twelve months to 31 December 2018.

 

Financial and operational highlights

 

Financial highlights

 
 
    -- 34% advance in profit after tax to GBP4.0m (2017: GBP3.0m) 
 
    -- 31% uplift in diluted earnings per share to 18.52p (2017: 14.17p) 
 
    -- 8% improvement in adjusted EBITDA1 to GBP5.5m (2017: GBP5.1m) 
 
    -- Sales of GBP28.3m (2017: GBP29.2m) 
 
    -- Proposed final dividend of 5.0p (2017: 4.5p) per share, total dividend 

for the year 7.2p (2017: 6.5p) an increase of 11%

 
    -- Cash balances of GBP12.9m at the year-end (2017: GBP13.6m) 
 

Operational highlights

 
 
    -- Strong sales growth in US, Europe and Australasia markets 
 
    -- New subsidiaries were incorporated in Mexico in 2018 and post-year end 

in Turkey

 
    -- Launch of 

Next generation of mycotoxin binders branded Anpro®

Omega 3 supplement delivering improved fertility benefits to dairy

farmers

 

Peter Lawrence, Chairman, commented:

 

"Trading in the current year is ahead of the same point in 2018. However, we remain vigilant as there may be obstacles ahead due to Brexit and African Swine Fever, in particular. Our strong balance sheet and cash generation capability provide Anpario with a firm platform from which to invest in new products and to develop the exciting Anpario Direct opportunity.

 

Expanding profitable sales and distribution channels around the world remains our priority and the initiatives already implemented are gaining traction. This gives me confidence that we will return to sales growth as 2019 progresses."

 

1 Adjusted EBITDA represents profit for the period before tax GBP4.552m (2017: GBP3.403m) adjusted for: share based payments and associated costs GBP0.118m (2017:GBP0.259m); net finance income GBP0.087m (2017: GBP0.042m); depreciation, amortisation and impairment charges of GBP0.871m (2017: GBP0.825m) and exceptional items of GBPnil (2017: GBP0.627m).

 

Chairman's statement

 

Anpario has delivered another good set of results for the year to 31 December 2018 with increases in pre-tax profit, earnings per share and EBITDA, when compared with the previous year. This outturn has been achieved in a challenging trading environment, which has held back sales The rapid spread of African Swine Fever (ASF) in China and the strengthening of the US dollar against currencies in which our customers trade, have influenced our performance but our focus on controlling costs whilst still implementing our development initiatives, has delivered encouraging results.

 

The proportion of total sales direct to end users continues to grow and reflects our strategic focus of working closely with our major partner distributors. The imminent launch of Anpario Direct, our internet sales channel, will take us into the small and medium sized farm enterprise segment. New investment in a fully automated liquid bottling plant and small packaging system, coupled with continued expansion of our regional commercial teams, will offer farming communities both an efficient and effective multi-channel service.

 

Profit before tax rose strongly by 34% to GBP4.6m (2017: GBP3.4m). Basic earnings per share increased by 33% to 19.53 pence per share (2017: 14.66 pence) and diluted earnings per share increased by 31% to 18.52 pence per share (2017: 14.17 pence). The Board is recommending a final dividend of 5.0 pence per share (2017: 4.5 pence) making a total of 7.2 pence per share for the year (2017: 6.5 pence), an increase of 11%. More detail of the financial performance of the Group is contained in the Financial Review that follows this statement.

 

Operations

 

The UK and Europe delivered a strong performance with sales growth of 9% compared with the same period last year. The recovery in milk prices helped strengthen demand for our mycotoxin binder range. Optomega Plus, our sustainable omega 3 supplement, that helps improve fertility in dairy cows, has been adopted by a number of dairy operators. Optomega Plus is also used as a supplement for enriching eggs with omega 3, bringing health benefits to human consumption.

 

Within Europe, Spain was a highlight, achieving a 29% sales increase, driven by the success of Orego-Stim®, our 100% natural essential oil product to promote well-being leading to enhanced production. Austria and Poland both enjoyed strong sales performances with growth of 31% and 157% respectively, albeit from a lower base.

 

Sales of Orego-Stim® grew in the UK with a number of veterinary organisations recommending the product and leading poultry integrators using it. Our technical team has been researching its use in calves which may offer a further sales opportunity.

 

In the USA, sales increased by 31%, when compared with the previous year. Orego-Stim® sales contributed significantly to this advance. The product was adopted by a number of poultry integrators to support their antibiotic free programmes and to improve bird performance. New interest from organic farming has also been encouraging.

 

Our sales to the US dairy industry continued to grow in a market affected by low mycotoxin levels and cost pressures. Anpro® Advance, our superior next generation toxin binder, was launched with positive feedback. The product is highly effective at binding particularly difficult toxins. Our dairy business has been focused initially in the mid-west and eastern states but we have recently recruited sales personnel for the California region, which is the top producing dairy state and, also has a strong poultry sector.

 

During the first half of the year, China achieved a 7% increase in sales but this growth reversed in the second half, leaving the territory down 11% over the full year compared to last year. African Swine Fever was the principal cause of this reversal as it limited our ability to visit customers and the associated market contraction has financially strained some customers. It is expected that this situation will start to improve by the summer while major efforts are made to constrain the disease. In addition, the trade tariff issues between the United States and China continue to affect demand for our additives. Our focus is being redirected to poultry, broilers, layers and pigeons and there is potential for our products in ruminants.

 

Australia increased sales by 45% across our whole range, which is used in both swine and poultry markets where the move to reducing antibiotics benefits Orego-Stim® in particular.

 

Sales in Asia declined 10%, mainly because we decided to terminate non-core and low margin product sales in the Philippines; this accounted for almost half of the decline. Japan, South Korea and Vietnam all performed well.

 

Sales in Latin America declined 21%, when compared with the same period last year, although the second half saw an improving trend with a strong fourth quarter performance, especially in Brazil. Chile returned to sales growth having overcome the disruption caused by changing distributors and the ensuing delay to product registrations. The period also benefitted from new sales into the aquaculture markets in Brazil and Ecuador, where we plan to extend our product range. A subsidiary in Mexico was established to build strong commercial relationships with the larger end users. Many of the Mexican and Brazilian integrators form part of the United States infrastructure, where they have subsidiaries and cross-shareholdings. Our new Mexican subsidiary will offer group-wide service and commercial deals across their businesses.

 

Across the Middle East, sales declined by 9%, due to a combination of geopolitical issues and the strengthening of the US dollar. It is pleasing to report that Egypt, Iraq and Saudi Arabia delivered double digit growth. Turkey experienced a decline in sales of 37%, partly as a result of one of its major integrators going bankrupt. As Turkey remains an important and large market opportunity, we have recently incorporated a wholly owned Turkish subsidiary and are recruiting additional local sales people to target veterinary customers.

 

Brexit

 

Anpario's products and processes comply with the required European Union regulations. In the event of the UK leaving the EU, we have plans in place with our EU suppliers to try to minimise any disruption. These arrangements include increasing raw material stock levels in the UK and supporting our European distributors with additional stock, which may increase working capital and storage costs, but this should not be material.

 

Production

 

We have progressively invested in automation to ensure the throughput and lead times for our powdered products meet customer demand, especially during peak periods. We are investing an additional GBP1 million in an automated bottling plant to give us the capability to manufacture and bottle the liquid versions of our products. Liquid formulations are increasing in popularity with customer groups such as vets, who are considering feed additives to replace banned antibiotics.

 

Market research indicates that the internet is used extensively by farmers to research health and production issues. Anpario Direct will offer specialist technical support to farmers using blogs, videos and knowledge transfer through its online platform. Anpario Direct's internet sales channel, initially for the UK market, will offer liquid products as the platform targets smaller farm enterprises and other niche segments such as equine and game birds. Production changes are in place to manufacture smaller pack sizes for the powder products in the Anpario Direct range. By extending the product range and offering express delivery, our goal is to be the destination of choice for tech savvy farmers looking to purchase sophisticated products for animal health, nutrition and biosecurity.

 

Innovation and development

 

During the rapid transition to antibiotic free meat production, farmers are seeking alternatives that provide a better return on investment than the products they currently use. Orego-Stim® is the leading phytogenics brand in the market. It achieves consistent performance results, due to the action of its natural oregano oil and unique carrier system.

 

Trials have shown that Orego-Stim®, on its own or in combination with vaccine, can assist birds to achieve their performance potential, following periods of intestinal stress, such as coccidiosis challenge. Orego-Stim® does not affect vaccination programmes and may be complementary. Research into other disease vaccination programmes including ileitis is currently in progress. Disease control relies on oral vaccination of pigs at about 10 to 12 weeks of age or antibiotic medication.

 

A report from The National Animal Health Monitoring Service (NAHMS), a non-regulatory unit of the US Department of Agriculture, indicates that 96% of US swine and 90% of EU pig farms are infected by ileitis, which results in a considerable cost increase for producers. Orego-Stim® is highly cost effective in controlling this disease.

 

Our research into using our additives against infections such as Salmonella may present further opportunities for us and for farmers wanting to achieve antibiotic free production.

 

During the year, we launched our next generation of mycotoxin binders under the brand name Anpro®. We have undertaken an extensive programme of both in-vitro and in-vivo testing in poultry, swine and ruminant species during the past three years. Anpro® has been independently tested against the main competitor products and significantly outperformed the other toxin binders. Orego-Stim® and Anpro® are just two of the key product groups which are expected to drive the future growth of the Group.

 

People

 

Anpario's growth and development reflects the strength and diversity of its people across the globe. This year has been challenging and it is our staff who, in no small part, have delivered profit growth through their hard work, diligence and belief in the Group. The customer care ethos and desire to produce the best quality products in the market is inherent in the motivation of the Anpario team. Their commitment and dedication is greatly appreciated.

 

Corporate Governance

 

The Board has adopted the Quoted Companies Alliance Corporate Governance Code ("QCA Code") from 20 September 2018.

 

As Chairman, it is my responsibility to ensure the highest practicable standards of corporate governance are in place. Previously the Group was not required to, but closely followed, the recommendations on corporate governance as set out in both the UK Corporate Governance Code and the QCA code. The formal adoption of the QCA Code will serve as a vehicle with which we can improve communication to all stakeholders to increase their visibility of the high standards that are in place within the Group.

 

The Board and staff at Anpario are committed to behaving professionally and responsibly to ensure that the highest standards of honesty, integrity and corporate governance are maintained. Enshrining these values through the Group's culture, objectives and processes is essential to support the success of the Group in creating long-term shareholder value.

 

Outlook

 

Trading in the current year is ahead of the same point in 2018. However, we remain vigilant as there may be obstacles ahead due to Brexit and African Swine Fever, in particular. Our strong balance sheet and cash generation capability provide Anpario with a firm platform from which to invest in new products and to develop the exciting Anpario Direct opportunity.

 

Expanding profitable sales and distribution channels around the world remains our priority and the initiatives already implemented are gaining traction. This gives me confidence that we will return to sales growth as 2019 progresses.

 

Peter LawrenceChairman6 March 2019

 

Financial Review

 
                                       2018    2017 
                                       GBP000    GBP000 
Revenue                                28,277  29,241 
Gross profit                           13,541  14,346 
Profit before tax                      4,552   3,403 
Adjusted EBITDA (note 3)               5,454   5,072 
Adjusted earnings per share (note 8)   18.90p  16.74p 
Net assets                             33,150  30,522 
Cash (absorbed)/generated              (615)   2,500 
Cash and cash equivalents              12,912  13,559 
 
 

Profit before tax rose strongly by 34% to GBP4.6m (2017: GBP3.4m). Basic earnings per share increased by 33% to 19.53 pence per share (2017: 14.66 pence) and diluted earnings per share increased by 31% to 18.52 pence per share (2017: 14.17 pence).

 

There were no exceptional items in the year (2017: GBP0.6m). Previously these were incurred as part of the restructuring of the business, which we now consider to be complete.

 

Adjusted EBITDA, increased by 8% to GBP5.5m (2017: GBP5.1m). Adjusted earnings per share increased by 13% to 18.90 pence per share (2017: 16.74 pence).

 

Revenues for the year declined 3% to GBP28.3m (2017: GBP29.2m). principally because of our planned strategic withdrawal from non-core and low margin product sales in the Philippines but also through the impact of the strengthening of sterling against the US dollar when compared with the prior year. The Group has hedges in place to mitigate this risk, the benefit of which is realised through operating expenses.

 

Gross profit was 6% lower than last year at GBP13.5m (2017: GBP14.3m). This was the result of both the foreign exchange impact mentioned above and exceptional price inflation of a few key raw materials. Nevertheless, increased sales to direct end user segments in strategically important markets, helped to reduce the impact of these factors.

 

Administrative expenses fell during the year by GBP1.3m, without impeding our strategic development plans. Throughout the year, we continued to recruit selectively to enhance our regional sales teams consequently employment costs, excluding bonuses, rose 9%. We also increased our marketing efforts to raise our profile and revitalise our sales positioning and materials.

 

Included in administrative costs are net foreign exchange gains of GBP0.3m. These comprised the reversal of prior year losses and the benefit of effective hedging instruments, which offset some of the impact on revenue. Sales bonuses were reduced reflecting the sales performance.

 

Capital expenditure rose to GBP1.8m (2017: GBP0.8m) as a result of our risk reduction and cost improvement plan to bring more of our production in-house and to add a bottling plant for Anpario Direct sales. There was also an increase in research and development expenditure to accelerate the generation of new products.

 

Group inventory levels increased to GBP4.0m (2017: GBP3.1m), as we built raw material stock levels as part of Brexit contingency planning; the remainder was the result of increased sales in regions such as USA and Australia where the long transit times lead to higher inventory requirements.

 

The balance sheet remains strong and debt free, with a year-end cash balance of GBP12.9m (2017: GBP13.6m).

 

The Board is recommending a final dividend of 5.0 pence per share (2017: 4.5 pence) making a total of 7.2 pence per share for the year (2017: 6.5 pence), an increase of 11%. This dividend, payable on 26 July to shareholders on the register on 12 July, continues to reflect the Board's confidence in the future and its ability to generate cash.

 

Non-financial

 

Health and safety - major accidents reportable to the Board in the year nil (2017: nil).

 

The Group also regards growth of business in key target markets and the on-going achievement of product registrations and quality assurance accreditations as other KPIs.

 

Our business model and strategy

 

Business Model

 

Anpario is an international producer and distributor of high performance natural feed additives for animal health, hygiene and nutrition. Our products work in harmony with the natural aspects of the animal's biology; and Anpario's expertise is focused on intestinal and animal health, and utilizing this understanding to improve animal performance and producer profitability.

 

Anpario supplies its customers with quality assured products manufactured in the United Kingdom and has an established global sales and distribution network in over 70 countries.

 

Anpario was built up through a combination of acquisitions and organic growth by establishing wholly owned subsidiaries in a number of key meat producing countries. The portfolio of products has been developed with the customer and the animal in mind, taking into account the life stages of the animal and the periods when they will be more challenged.

 

Anpario is well positioned to benefit from the trends in growth of the world's population, the increasing demand for meat and fish protein in developing countries and the tightening of global regulation which favours more natural feed additive solutions. Seizing these opportunities is how Anpario intends to deliver long-term shareholder value.

 

Our business model is based on:

 
 
    -- Products - high quality efficacious products presented well 
 
    -- Channel - Control the sales channel to ensure we develop strong 

technical and commercial relationships with the end users of Anpario

products.

 
    -- Story - Powerful value add proposition demonstrating the 

financial and performance benefits of our product solutions.

 
    -- Branding - Build an impeccable Anpario brand which global 

customers can trust as having innovative, high quality and effective

solutions for customers

 
    -- Quality - Throughout supply chain and manufacturing processes 
 
    -- Efficiency - Efficient automated production with high 

operational gearing.

 

Strategy

 
 
    -- Regional focus 

Developing local commercial and technical relationships across the

world

Delivered through

Regional Sales Structure

Local language speakers

Resource that understands local market needs and challenges

Closer relationships with key end customers

Actions in 2018

Further expansion of regional teams

Setup of new subsidiary operations to serve local markets

Future plans

Subsidiary operations to begin trading in Turkey and Mexico

Further selective recruitment of high calibre regional resource

Launch of Anpario Direct in the UK market to target the

smaller farm segment

 
    -- Technical & Products 

Add value by developing products that help overcome the challenges

of modern day farming

Delivered through

Scientific research and development, working closely with the

end customers' meat protein operations, to help improve gut

function leading to improved animal performance.

Support the producer through prevention rather than treatment

Help the customer meet disease and regulatory challenges.

Actions in 2018

Further research and development of Orego-Stim in helping to

support gut health and improve productivity through disease

challenge.

Launch of new mycotoxin binder range, Anpro®.

Launch of Optomega Omega 3 supplement to improve dairy cow

fertility and egg enrichment.

Targeting aquaculture market in Latin America.

Future plans

Continue to retain and recruit technical and animal production

experts.

Continued investment in research and development working

closely with key global customers and respected institutions.

Look for product opportunities which broaden our range and

species opportunities.

 
    -- Operations 

High quality, consistent and efficient manufacturing

Delivered through

Automated production facilities

Key industry quality accreditations

Quality supply partners

Actions in 2018

Brought the manufacture of Orego-Stim powder into Manton Wood.

Expanded warehouse capacity.

Future plans

Automated liquid bottling plant

Production in smaller pack sizes

 
    -- Acquisitions 

Growth through complementary and earnings enhancing acquisitions.

Delivered through

Successful integration to derive both operational and

financial synergies

Specific searches to identify suitable targets in the

specialty feed additive market.

Applying strict acquisition and valuation criteria; targets

must either complement our current product range, offer market

consolidation opportunities or strengthen our sales and

distribution channels.

Actions in 2018

Delivered high growth in recent Australian acquisition

Established clear policy and framework

Extensive search of European specialty feed additive producers.

Future plans

Continue active search for acquisition opportunities within

criteria.

 

Corporate governance

 

Chairman's introduction

 

The Company's shares are traded on the Alternative Investment Market ("AIM") of the London Stock Exchange. Anpario has chosen to apply the Quoted Companies Alliance Corporate Governance Code ("QCA Code") from 20 September 2018.

 

In my role as Chairman, it is my responsibility to ensure the highest practicable standards of corporate governance are in place. Previously, the Company was not required to, but closely followed the recommendations on corporate governance as set out in both the UK Corporate Governance Code and the QCA code. The formal adoption of the QCA Code will serve as a vehicle with which we can improve communication to all stakeholders to increase visibility of the high standards that are already in place within the Company.

 

Anpario offers natural solutions to the food farming industry which work in harmony with the natural aspects of an animal's biology to promote healthy growth at the least cost to the environment and the producer. Our products enable the production of top quality protein that partners future farming practice around the world. This objective and our engagement with stakeholders, ensures that we act in a manner that is responsible and beneficial to all.

 

The board and staff at the Company are committed to behaving professionally and responsibly to ensure that the highest standards of honesty, integrity and corporate governance are maintained. Enshrining these values through the Company's culture, objectives and processes is essential to support the success of the Company in creating long-term shareholder value.

 

Principle 1: Our strategy and business model to promote long-term value for shareholders

 

Anpario is well positioned to benefit from the trends in growth of the world's population, the increasing demand for meat and fish protein in developing countries and the tightening of global regulation which favours more natural feed additive solutions. Seizing these opportunities is how Anpario intends to deliver long-term shareholder value. More information is included in the Strategic Report.

 

Anpario has specific resource and processes in place to proactively identify and manage risk to protect the continued growth and long-term future that is possible as outlined above. Our annual report details specific financial and non-financial risks and uncertainties facing the business and any measures in place to mitigate them.

 

Principle 2: Understanding and meeting shareholder needs and expectation

 

Communications with shareholders are given high priority and Anpario recognises the importance and value in reciprocal and open communication with its many investors. This is key to ensure alignment between the motivations and expectations of our shareholders and our strategy and business model.

 

This communication takes place in many forms to serve different purposes. Our Interim Statements and Annual Reports contain detailed information for shareholders to understand our performance, strategy and future plans. Between these disclosures, the Company also issues RNS announcements, as required, which serve to keep shareholders updated about regulatory matters or changes that they should be notified of. These RNS announcements, as well as wider news articles about the Company, are available on our website www.anpario.com.

 

The Annual General Meeting is the main opportunity for all shareholders to engage with Anpario. Shareholders are notified in advance of the date and location of the meeting as well as the resolutions that are to be voted on. At the meeting, the Board and key personnel give a presentation about the most recent published results and our strategy; they are also available to answer any questions that shareholders may have.

 

The Directors actively seek to build strong relationships with institutional investors and investment analysts. Presentations are given immediately following Interim Statement and Annual Report announcements. Feedback directly from shareholders via the Company's advisers after these regular analyst and shareholder meetings ensures that the Board understands shareholder views. The Board as a whole are kept informed of the views and concerns of major shareholders and are made aware of any significant investment reports from analysts.

 

Shareholders are encouraged to contact the Company should they have any questions or concerns and can do so using a dedicated email address investor@anpario.com. This is actively used by our Shareholders and successfully enables them to engage with the Board in addition to attaining assistance on individual shareholder specific matters with which we may be able to help. The Chairman and other Directors meets or has contact with major shareholders as necessary.

 

The Executive Directors hold shares and participate in incentive plans in the Company which ensures that their interests are fully aligned with those of other shareholders.

 

Principal 3: Corporate social responsibilities and wider stakeholders

 

Anpario seeks to ensure a sustainable business, behaving socially, ethically and environmentally responsibly and engaging with all of its key stakeholders, including the communities in which the Company operates, its people and the environment. As we evolve our business model and strategy we ensure that we identify any new stakeholders and seek to understand them alongside existing stakeholders. Some of the key stakeholders are discussed below.

 

Employees

 

Anpario is an inclusive organisation where no-one receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of gender, nationality, marital status, colour, race, ethnic origin, creed, sexual orientation or disability. Employees embody Anpario's key values of "Integrity, Teamwork, Innovation and Leadership".

 

Over 100 employees work for Anpario in the UK and its global operations. It is the Group's policy to involve colleagues in the business and to ensure that matters of concern to them, including the Group's aims and objectives and its financial performance, are communicated in an open way. Where appropriate, employees are offered the opportunity to become shareholders in order to promote active participation in, and commitment to, the Group's success.

 

The Employee handbook which applies globally and includes detailed policies and guides for employees which cover:

 
 
    -- Behaviour - Equal Opportunities and Dignity at Work, Anti-Bribery and 

Anti-Corruption, Communications and Privacy.

 
    -- Family - Parental, Dependents, Maternity, Paternity, Flexible working, 

Adoption.

 
    -- General - Grievance, Whistle blowing, Discrimination and Bullying, and 

Disciplinary.

 
    -- Safety - Health and Safety handbook, Occupational Health Policy, Drug 

and Alcohol abuse.

 

Specific training is given to all employees in respect of key policies including online training videos on the Company's intranet and appropriate health and safety training.

 

Employees are encouraged to further develop their skills and provide appropriate training in order to support our people and grow organisational capabilities. Anpario currently:

 
 
    -- has several apprentices places; 
 
    -- recruits graduates in disciplines such as biosciences, accountancy, 

law and HR.

 
    -- works closely with several global universities on joint scientific 

initiatives;

 
    -- provides ongoing professional training support, extensive coaching and 

management development programmes;

 
    -- provides financial and study leave for professional and work related 

qualifications.

 

The Company has a bonus scheme in place for its employees with targets aligned with shareholders as appropriate to their roles and responsibilities. The provision of share option and sharesave schemes has resulted in over 50% of our employees participating in one or more of the current schemes in operation.

 

Anpario supports local community initiatives and employee charity work.

 

An analysis of Directors, senior managers and other employees by gender as at 6 March 2019 is as follows:

 
                                      Male  Female 
Directors                             3     1 
Management                            24    14 
Administration and Production staff   42    31 
                                      69    46 
 
 

Suppliers, Customers and Regulators

 

Anpario supplies products to many countries and aims to enhance animal health and nutrition. Internal quality control ensures: the safety of its products; transparency and traceability.

 

Anpario retain key industry quality accreditations in particular UFAS and FEMAS certifications. The Group is committed to achieving a safe and secure working environment in all locations operating an established Group health and safety policy applicable to all employees.

 
 
    -- Responsible procurement policies are in place to source raw materials 

to high specification and rigorous quality standards. Anpario seeks to

partner suppliers operating to highest standards of honesty and

integrity. These ethics include through responsible procurement and

due diligence, ensuring: suppliers operate rigorous quality standards

and comply with all applicable ethical labour and, trade laws and

regulations, including the requirements of The Modern Slavery Act 2015;

 
    -- the operation of manufacturing facilities to the highest standards; 

compliance with recognised quality standards; and a safe and secure

working environment in all our locations;

 
    -- compliance with environmental legislation and responsible practices 

minimising the impact of its operations on the environment;

 
    -- absolute transparency and traceability of raw materials and compliance 

with international regulations;

 
    -- zero tolerance of bribery and corruption. 
 

Environment

 

The Group recognises the importance of good environmental controls. It is the Group's policy to comply with environmental legislation currently in place, adopt responsible environmental practices and give consideration to minimising the impact of its operations on the environment.

 

Material supply:

 
 
    -- Fish & marine oils used for our products are processed by-products 

from farmed fish productions for human consumption or sourced from

suppliers certified for sustainable fishing.

 
    -- Raw materials used within products are primarily common minerals in 

high grade quality from plentiful natural resources.

 
    -- Pre-used reconditioned & cleaned intermediate bulk containers are used 

for packaging & supply of bulk liquids.

 

Environmental Controls & good practices

 
 
    -- 90% of carrier and materials are supplied in bulk and added directly 

into production to minimise packaging waste and labour requirements.

 
    -- 100% liquid bulk ingredients are stored in bunded storage silos; 

liquid bulk deliveries are accepted only when the site drainage system

is blocked with a bung to prevent accidental spills from entering into

the general sewerage system.

 
    -- A dust extraction system is used to minimise dust in the production 

area and prevent dust from being emitted into the environment.

 
    -- Manufacturing processes generate 1% of the production volume as 

product and material waste due to manufacturing & cleaning activities.

This product and material waste is collected by a waste contractor and

environmentally recycled.

 
    -- Digital marketing brochures are created that can easily be emailed or 

viewed via the website as opposed to being printed and posted out.

 
    -- Travel is managed to ensure trips are multi-purpose or alternatively 

using telephones, Skype and conference centres and webinars.

 
    -- A paperless office policy is encouraged. 
 

The Group adopts a clear Code of Conduct setting out the behaviour expected from all employees and business partners (including suppliers, customers, consultants, agents and representatives). It shall not knowingly take any actions which violate any applicable national and international anti-bribery and corruption legislation, including the UK Bribery Act 2010.

 

Principle 4: Effective Risk Management

 

Anpario has specific resource and processes in place to proactively identify and manage risk to protect the continued growth and long-term future. However, any such system of internal control can provide only reasonable, but not absolute, assurance against material misstatement or loss. The Board considers that the internal controls in place are appropriate for the size, complexity and risk profile of the Company and that they balance exploiting opportunities and protecting against threats. The Principal Risks and Uncertainties section of this annual report details specific financial and non-financial risks and uncertainties facing the business and where possible the measures in place to mitigate them.

 

Risk management and control

 

Effective risk analysis is fundamental to the execution of Anpario's business strategy and objectives.

 

Our risk management and control processes are designed to make management of risk an integrated part of the organisation. The framework is used to identify, evaluate, mitigate and monitor significant risks, and to provide reasonable but not absolute assurance that the Group will be successful in achieving its objectives.

 

The focus is on significant risks that, if they materialise, could substantially and adversely affect the Group's business, viability, prospects and share price.

 

The requirement for an Internal Audit function is to be kept under review.

 

Risk management process

 

We recognise that a level of risk taking is inherent within a commercial business; our risk management process is designed to identify, evaluate and mitigate the risks and uncertainties we face.

 

The CEO is the ultimate Risk Manager. The Board establishes our risk appetite; oversees the risk management and internal control framework and monitors the Group's exposure to principal risks.

 

The Executive Management Board (EMB) owns the risk management process and is responsible for managing specific risks. The EMB members are also responsible for embedding rigorous risk management in operational processes and performance management and review.

 

The EMB members are responsible for the risk analysis, controls and mitigation plans for their individual section of the business.

 

The Audit Committee reviews the effectiveness of the risk management process and the internal control framework and ensures appropriate executive ownership for all key risks.

 

These processes ensure that all Directors receive detailed reports from management and are able to discuss the risks, controls and mitigations in place and therefore satisfy themselves that key risks are being effectively managed.

 

Internal control framework

 

Anpario's internal control framework is designed to ensure the:

 
 
    -- Effectiveness and efficiency of business operations; 
 
    -- Reliability of financial reporting; 
 
    -- Compliance with all applicable laws and regulations and 
 
    -- Assignment of Authority and Responsibility. 
 

Anpario's values underpin the control framework and it is the Board's aim that these values drive the behaviours and actions of all employees. The key elements of the control framework are:

 

Management Structure

 

The Board sets formal authorisation levels and controls that allow it to delegate authority to the EMB and Senior Managers. The management structure has clearly defined reporting lines and operating standards.

 

Strategy and Business Planning

 

We have a strategic plan which is developed by the EMB and endorsed by the Board.

 

Business objectives and performance measures are defined annually, together with budgets and forecasts.

 

Monthly business performance reviews are conducted at both Group and business unit levels.

 

Policies and Procedures

 

Our key financial, legal and compliance policies and procedures that apply across the Group are:

 
 
    -- Code of Conduct; 
 
    -- Levels of Authorities; 
 
    -- Ways of Working (WOWs); 
 
    -- Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy; 
 
    -- GDPR and Privacy Policy; 
 
    -- Due diligence including sanctions checks are conducted. 
 

Operational controls

 

Our operational control processes include:

 
 
    -- Product Pipeline Review: Our product pipeline is reviewed 

regularly to consider new product ideas and determine the fit with our

product portfolio. We assess if the products in development are

progressing according to plan and evaluate the expected commercial

return on new products.

 
    -- Lifecycle Management: We manage and monitor lifecycle 

management activities for our key products to meet the changing needs

of our customers, environmental and regulatory standards.

 
    -- Quality Assurance: Our manufacturing facility has an 

established Quality Management System operating under FEMAS and UFAS.

Our system is designed to ensure that all products are manufactured to

a consistently high standard in compliance with all relevant

regulatory requirements.

 
    -- Product Registration: Our registration team operates a robust 

system to ensure all products are correctly registered within the

jurisdiction in which they are sold.

 
    -- Pricing: Our pricing structure is managed and monitored to 

provide equitable pricing for all customer groups.

 

Financial controls

 

Our financial controls are designed to prevent and detect financial misstatement or fraud. This provides reasonable, but not absolute, assurance against material misstatement or loss.

 
 
    -- A formalised reporting structure which includes the setting of 

detailed annual budgets and key performance indicators which are

updated on a regular basis to form forecasts;

 
    -- These are reviewed at both management and Board meetings where all key 

aspects of the business are discussed including comparison of current

and historical performance as well as budgets and forecasts;

 
    -- Defined authorisation levels for expenditure; the placing of orders 

and contracts; and signing authorities;

 
    -- Transactional Level Controls operated on a day-to-day basis; 
 
    -- Daily cash movements are reconciled and monitored by the finance 

department and the Group's cash flow is monitored;

 
    -- Segregation of accounting duties; 
 
    -- Reconciliation and review of financial statements and judgements; 
 
    -- Internal and external training to ensure staff are aware of the latest 

standards and best practice, and

 
    -- Membership of professional bodies and compliance with associated code 

of ethics.

 

Principle 5: The Board

 

The Board of Directors is collectively responsible and accountable to shareholders for the long-term success of the Company. The Board provides leadership within a framework of prudent and effective controls designed to ensure strong corporate governance and enable risk to be assessed and managed.

 

The Board regularly reviews the operational performance and plans of the Company and determines the Company's strategy, ensuring that the necessary financial and human resources are in place in order to meet the Company's objectives. The Board also sets the Company's values and standards, mindful of its obligations to shareholders and other stakeholders.

 

Full details and biographies of the Board are available on our website, the Board comprises of two independent Non-Executive Directors and two Executive Directors.

 

Executive Directors

 
                                                     Key Committees 
Name              Role             Qualifications    Audit  Nom.  Rem. 
Richard Edwards   Chief Executive  B Eng (Hons),            M 
                  Officer          C Eng, MBA. 
Karen Prior       Group Finance    BSc (Hons), FCA. 
                  Director 
 
 

Independent Non-Executive Directors

 
                                                      Key Committees 
Name             Role           Qualifications        Audit  Nom.  Rem. 
Peter Lawrence   Non-Executive  MSc, BSc, DIC, ACGI.  C      C     M 
                 Chairman 
Richard Wood     Senior         BSc, C Eng            M      M     C 
                 Independent 
                 Director 
 
 

Audit = Audit Committee, Nom. = Nomination Committee, Rem. = Remuneration Committee

 

C = Chair, M = Member

 

The Board considers that Peter Lawrence and Richard Wood are independent. In Peter Lawrence's case the Board has specifically considered his length of service on the Board and determined that in terms of interest, perspective and judgement he remains independent.

 

All Directors are subject to reappointment by shareholders at the first Annual General Meeting following their appointment and thereafter by rotation.

 

The Board delegates its authority for certain matters to its Audit, Remuneration and Nomination Committees. The Board approves and reviews the terms of reference of each of the Committees which are available on the Company's website, http://www.anpario.com/aim-26/.

 

The Board meets formally at least four times per annum. All Board members receive agendas and comprehensive papers prior to each Board meeting. The Group Finance Director is also the Company Secretary and is responsible to the Board for ensuring that Board procedures are followed and that applicable rules and regulations are adhered to.

 

In addition to formal Board and Committee meetings, ad hoc decisions of the Board and Committees are taken after discussion throughout the financial year as necessary through the form of written resolutions.

 

All Directors in office at the time of the various committee meetings were in attendance for all of the meetings convened between 8 March 2018 and 6 March 2019. A list of the meetings convened during the year is set out below.

 
                           Number of meetings  Full attendance of meeting 
                           convened 
Board meetings             4                   Yes 
Audit Committee meetings   2                   Yes 
Remuneration Committee     1                   Yes 
meetings 
 
 

The Chief Executive Officer works full time for the Group. The Group Finance Director is contractually employed for a four day week, however, additional hours are worked to ensure the roles and responsibilities of the position are fully met. The Non-executive Directors have commitments outside of Anpario plc. They are summarised on the Board biographies available from http://www.anpario.com/directors/. All the Non-Executive Directors give the appropriate amount of time required to fulfil their responsibilities to Anpario.

 

Principal 6: Ensuring Directors have between them the necessary up-to-date experience, skills and capabilities

 

The Nomination Committee aims to ensure that composition of the Board reflects appropriate balance of skills and experience required to ensure long-term shareholder value and manage risk. Details of the role of the Nomination Committee and the activities it performs in relation to these matters is included in the "Maintaining Governance Structures" section later on in this document.

 

The Board biographies available on the website give an indication of their breadth of skills and experience. Each member of the Board takes responsibility for maintaining their own skill set, which includes roles and experience with other boards and organisations as well as formal training and seminars.

 

Principal 7: Evaluating Board Performance

 

The performance of the Board is evaluated formally on an annual basis, following the conclusion of the annual Audit and finalisation of the Annual Report. The Chairman leads this process which looks at the effectiveness of both the Board as a unit and its individual members.

 

When addressing overall Board performance the factors considered, include but are not limited to, underlying group financial performance, the success of new strategy implementation and the effectiveness of risk and control measures. This process further looks at the performance of each member and considers their individual successes, commitment and alignment to the overall Group strategy. As appropriate, it will also look to confirm that members have maintained their independence.

 

As part of the adoption of QCA, Anpario are reassessing the processes around evaluating Board performance in order to increase the visibility to shareholders.

 

The Nomination Committee is responsible for determining Board level appointments, details of its role and terms of reference are provided later in this document. The Executive Board members determine the appointments to the Senior Management team, in line with Board approval procedures.

 

Succession planning is a key part in ensuring the long-term success of the Company. The Executive team ensure that potential successors in place within the business and are given the required support and guidance to develop further. At the required time, it is the Nomination Committee's role to make decisions about future appointments to the Board.

 

Principle 8: Promoting a corporate culture based on ethical values and behaviours

 

Anpario has a strong ethical culture, the Board is responsible for setting and promoting this throughout our processes and behaviours. The policies related to these matters are regularly reviewed and updated and distributed to employees and other stakeholders as appropriate. Further, specific training is given to keep staff updated on relevant changes, these sessions are often recorded for future reference and new staff.

 

A copy of our code of conduct is available on our website, http://www.anpario.com/code-of-conduct/. This sets out policies on Corporate Social Responsibility and Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption. Anpario also have a whistleblowing policy that is applicable to all our employees, other workers, our suppliers and those providing services to our organisation.

 

Principal 9: Maintaining governance structures

 

Anpario is confident that the governance structures in place in the Company are appropriate for its size and individual circumstances whilst ensuring they are fit for purpose and support good decision making by the Board.

 

The Board defines a series of matters reserved for its decision. These include strategy, finance, corporate governance, approval of significant capital expenditure, appointment of key personnel and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

 

There is clear segregation of responsibility within the Board. The Non-Executive Chairman is responsible for providing leadership to and managing the business of the Board, in particular ensuring strong Corporate Governance policies and values. The role of Chief-Executive Officer is concerned with the formulation and implementation of the strategy of the Company and is responsible for all operational aspects of the business. The role of the Group Finance Director is to provide strategic and financial guidance and to develop the necessary policies and procedures to ensure sound financial management and control of the Company. The Group Finance Director also acts as Company Secretary and is further responsible for advising on corporate governance matters and ensuring compliance with relevant legislative and legal requirements.

 

Details of the key committees are set out below, the terms of reference for each are available on our website as part of the committee section of the AIM 26 disclosures http://www.anpario.com/aim-26/.

 

Audit Committee

 

Details are contained within the Audit Committee Report section of this Annual Report.

 

Remuneration Committee

 

Details are contained within the Remuneration Committee Report section of this Annual Report.

 

Nomination Committee

 

The Nomination Committee is comprised of the two Non-Executive Directors and the Chief Executive Officer and is chaired by Peter Lawrence. Meetings are held as required by the Chairman. The role of the committee is as follows.

 
 
    -- Regularly review the structure, size and composition (including the 

skills, knowledge, experience and diversity) of the Board and make

recommendations to the Board with regard to any changes;

 
    -- Give full consideration to succession planning for Directors and other 

senior executives taking into account the challenges and opportunities

facing the Company, and the skills and expertise needed on the Board

in the future;

 
    -- Keep under review the leadership needs of the organisation, both 

executive and non-executive, with a view to ensuring the continued

ability of the organisation to compete effectively in the marketplace;

 
    -- Keep up to date and informed about strategic issues and commercial 

changes affecting the Company and the market in which it operates;

 
    -- Review and approve selection procedures for potential Board members, 

whether executive or non-executive, whether for immediate appointment

to the Board or after a probationary period;

 
    -- Be responsible for identifying and nominating for approval of the 

Board, candidates to fill Board vacancies as they arise;

 
    -- Ensure that on appointment to the Board, non-executive Directors 

receive a formal letter of appointment setting out clearly what is

expected of them in terms of time commitment, committee service and

involvement outside Board meetings;

 
    -- Ensure that following appointment to the Board, Directors undergo an 

appropriate induction programme;

 
    -- Make recommendations to the Board on membership of the Board's 

committees, in consultation with the chair of such committees; the

reappointment of any non-executive at the conclusion of their

specified term of office; the reappointment by shareholders of

Directors under the Company's rotation requirements taking into

account the need for progressive refreshing of the Board.

 

Before any appointment is made by the Board, evaluate the balance of skills, knowledge, experience and diversity on the Board, and, in the light of this evaluation, prepare a description of the role and capabilities required for a particular appointment. In Identifying suitable candidates the committee shall consider candidates from a wide range of backgrounds; consider candidates on merit against objective criteria and with due regard to the benefits of diversity on the Board, including gender, taking care that appointees have enough time available to devote to the position;

 

For the appointment of a Chairman, the committee shall produce a job specification, including the time commitment expected. A proposed Chairman's other significant commitments should be disclosed to the Board before appointment and any changes to the Chairman's commitments should be reported to the Board as they arise;

 

Prior to the appointment of a Director, the proposed appointee should be required to disclose any other business interests that may result in a conflict of interests and be required to report any future business interests that could result in a conflict of interest;

 

Principal 10: Communicating governance and performance matters with shareholders and wider stakeholders

 

Communications with shareholders are given high priority and we proactively promote engagement through a range of measures. More details of which are provided earlier in this document about how Anpario seek to engage with and understand Shareholders and wider Stakeholders.

 

The most recent AGM took place on 28 June 2018, full details of which are included in the 2017 annual report available from our Website. The results of the AGM are set out below. None of the resolutions had a significant number of votes cast against it.

 
No.   Resolution                                            Result 
1     Accept Financial Statements and Statutory Reports     Passed 
2     Approve Final Dividend                                Passed 
3     Re-elect Peter Lawrence as Non-Executive Chairman     Passed 
4     Re-elect Richard Wood as Senior Independent Director  Passed 
5     Re-appoint Deloitte LLP as Auditors                   Passed 
6     Authorise Issue of Equity with Pre-emptive rights     Passed 
7     Authorise Issue of Equity without Pre-emptive rights  Passed 
8     Authorise Market Purchase of Ordinary Shares          Passed 
 
 

Our Company website includes historical Annual Reports and Interim Statements; both in RNS format as part of its News section, and the published documents are available from http://www.anpario.com/annual-interim-reports/. Included within these documents are the notices of previous annual general meetings, the results of which are released as RNS announcements and can be found in the News Releases section of our website http://www.anpario.com/.

 

Board of DirectorsRichard P Edwards, B Eng (Hons), C Eng, MBA.Chief Executive Officer (N)

 

Richard Edwards joined the Board in December 2006 as Chief Executive following the acquisition of Agil. He was appointed Executive Vice-Chairman in April 2011 with specific responsibility for implementing acquisition strategy. In January 2016, Richard

 

was appointed to the position of CEO.

 

Richard has extensive general management and corporate strategy experience gained in the sales and distribution sector both in the UK and internationally. Previously he was Director and General Manager of WF Electrical, a GBP140 million turnover division of Hagemeyer (UK) plc, a distributor of industrial products, and gained significant experience in corporate development at Saint Gobain UK building materials business.

 

Karen L Prior, BSc (Hons), FCA.Group Finance Director

 

Karen joined the board in October 2009 as Group Finance Director. Previously, Karen has had roles as Finance Director of Town Centre Securities PLC, a listed property group and UK Finance Director of Q-Park, where she was instrumental in its establishment and growth in the UK.

 

Karen has also been Financial Controller of train builders Bombardier Transportation and spent 10 years of her early career with Ernst and Young specialising in providing audit and business services to entrepreneurial businesses.

 

Peter A Lawrence, MSc, BSc, DIC, ACGI.Non-Executive Chairman (A, N, R)

 

Peter joined the Board in August 2005 as a Non-Executive Director and became Non- Executive Chairman in 2017. Peter is the founder of ECO Animal Health Group plc where he is now the Non-Executive Chairman having been an Executive Director ever

 

since its formation in 1972. Peter is the Non-Executive Chairman of Baronsmead Venture Trust plc and Amati AIM VCT plc, he is also an Executive Director of Algatechnologies Ltd.

 

Richard K WoodSenior Independent Director (A, N, R)

 

Richard joined the Board in November 2017 as a Senior Independent Director. Richard has considerable global animal health experience having built Genus plc from a small company privatised by the government, into a world leading animal genetics company. More recently, Richard was a senior independent non-executive director of Avon Rubber plc and was also chairman of Ocean Harvest Technology Inc., a small manufacturer of therapeutic animal feeds using seaweeds.

 

Richard has previously held the position of Chairman at Atlantic Pharmaceuticals plc, Innovis (a sheep genetics company) and Silent Herdsman Limited (Farming Technology).

 

Key A: Audit Committee N: Nomination Committee R: Remuneration Committee

 

The Terms of Reference of the Audit, Nomination and Remuneration Committees are available on the Company's website: www.anpario.com/aim-26/

 

Directors' report

 

The Directors present their annual report and audited consolidated financial statements for the year-ended 31 December 2018.

 

Results and dividends

 

The profit for the year after tax from continuing operations was GBP4.0m (2017: GBP3.0m). The Directors propose a final dividend of 5.0p per share (2017: 4.5p) making a total of 7.2p per share for the year (2017: 6.5p), amounting to a total dividend of GBP1.5m (2017: GBP1.4m).

 

Directors

 

The Directors during the year under review and subsequently were:

 
Peter A Lawrence     Non-Executive Chairman 
Richard P Edwards    Chief Executive Officer 
Karen L Prior        Group Finance Director 
Richard K Wood       Senior Independent Director 
 
 

The Board regards the Non-Executive Directors as being independent. The biographies and roles of all Directors and their roles on the Audit, Remuneration and Nomination Committees are set out earlier in this report.

 

Details of the Directors' interests in the shares of the Company are provided in the Directors' remuneration report.

 

Substantial shareholdings

 

At 1 March 2019, the Company had been notified of the following holdings of 3 per cent or more of its issued share capital:

 
                                         Ordinary  % held 
                                         Shares 
                                         (000) 
Royal Trust Corp of Canada Custodians    2,650     11.4 
Unicorn Asset Management Limited         2,046     8.8 
Gresham House Asset Management Limited   1,399     6.0 
Downing LLP                              1,349     5.8 
Investec Wealth & Investment Limited     1,110     4.8 
Allianz Global Investors GmbH            1,100     4.7 
Schroder Investment                      804       3.5 
Miton Group plc                          761       3.3 
Hargreaves Lansdown Asset Mgt            739       3.2 
 
 

Review of the business and future developments

 

A full review of the year, together with an indication of future developments, is given in the Chairman's statement.

 

Group research and development activities

 

The Group is continually researching into and developing new products. Details of expenditure incurred and impaired or written off during the year are shown in the note 4 of these the financial statements.

 

Share capital

 

During the year 41,853 (2017: 30,068) Ordinary shares of 23p each were issued pursuant to the exercise of share options. During the year the Company issued nil (2017: 225,018) Ordinary shares of 23p at market price to the Trustees of The Anpario plc Employees' Share Trust. A Special Resolution will be proposed at our AGM to renew the Directors' limited authority last granted in 2018 to make market purchases of Ordinary shares in the capital of the Company. The Company holds 143,042 (2017: 143,042) Ordinary shares of 23p in treasury.

 

Independent auditors

 

The auditors, Deloitte LLP, have indicated their willingness to continue in office, and a resolution that they be re-appointed will be proposed at the AGM.

 

Stockbrokers

 

Peel Hunt LLP is the Company's stockbroker and nominated adviser.

 

The closing share price on 31 December 2018 was 325.0p per share (2017: 397.5p per share).

 

Indemnities

 

By virtue of, and subject to, Article 172 of the current Articles of Association of the Company, the Company has granted an indemnity to every Director, alternate Director, Secretary or other officer of the Company. Such provisions remain in force at the date of this report. The Group has arranged appropriate insurance cover for any legal action against the Directors and officers.

 

Financial risk management

 

Details of the Company's financial risk management policy are set out in note 2.21 of the financial statements.

 

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 have prepared the Group and Parent 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 the Company and of the profit or loss of the Group 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 applicable IFRSs as adopted by the European Union have 

been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and

explained in the financial statements; and

 
    -- prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it 

is inappropriate to presume that the Company and the Group will

continue in business.

 

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 the Group and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Company and the Group and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

 

The Directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the Company's website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

 

Statement of disclosure to auditors

 

So far as the Directors are aware:

 
 
    -- there is no relevant audit information of which the Company's auditors 

are unaware; and

 
    -- they have taken all the steps that they ought to have taken as 

Directors in order to make themselves aware of any relevant audit

information and to establish that the Company's auditors are aware of

that information.

 

By order of the Board

 

Karen L PriorCompany Secretary6 March 2019

 

Report of the Remuneration Committee

 

Introduction

 

On behalf of the Remuneration Committee, I am pleased to present the Remuneration Report for the year ended 31 December 2018. The Committee seeks to provide a framework that is aligned to the strategy and values of the Company and to the interests of shareholders. It recognises the need to recruit, retain and appropriately incentivise high calibre directors and managers to deliver the Company's strategy.

 

Overview

 

The Remuneration Committee is responsible for reviewing the performance of Executive Directors as well as determining the scale and structure of their remuneration, their terms and conditions of service and the grant of share awards, having due regard to the interests of shareholders.

 

The Committee is also responsible for reviewing the overall policy in respect of remuneration of all other employees of the Company and establishing the Company's policy and operation of share incentive schemes.

 

In determining the remuneration of senior executives, the Committee seeks to enable the Company to attract and retain executives of the highest calibre. The Committee also makes recommendations to the Board concerning the allocations of options to executives under the long-term incentive plan and for the administration of the scheme.

 

The terms of reference of the Remuneration committee can be found on the Company's website http://www.anpario.com/aim-26/.

 

Composition and Meetings

 

The Remuneration Committee comprises Richard Wood, Senior Non-Executive Director and Committee Chairman, and Peter Lawrence, Non-Executive Chairman of the Board. Executive Directors are invited to attend meetings as required if thought advantageous for consideration of a particular agenda item. The Remuneration Committee meets as necessary to fulfil its objectives but as a minimum, at least once a year. The committee met once during the year ended 31 December 2018 with full attendance by the Committee members.

 

AIM Requirements

 

As an AIM company, Anpario plc, is not required to comply with schedule 8 of the large and medium-sized companies' regulations 2008. However, it is moving towards this full level of reporting and disclosures in this report reflect this.

 

Directors' remuneration

 

The remuneration of the Chairman and each Director during the year ended 31 December 2018 is set out in the tables below. The detail contained in this summary has been expanded this year, as such the prior year figures have been re-presented.

 
                  Salary  Pension  Benefits  Bonus*  Share-basedpayments  Total 
                  2018    2018     2018      2018    2018                 2018 
                  GBP000    GBP000     GBP000      GBP000    GBP000                 GBP000 
Executive 
Directors 
R P Edwards       209     -        11        133     55                   408 
K L Prior         146     -        13        99      58                   316 
Non-Executive 
Directors 
P A Lawrence***   40      -        -         -       -                    40 
R K Wood          35      -        -         -       -                    35 
Total             430     -        24        232     113                  799 
 
 

The comparative figures for the previous year is shown below

 
                  Salary  Pension  Benefits  Bonus*  Share-basedpayments  Total 
                  2017    2017     2017      2017    2017                 2017 
                  GBP000    GBP000     GBP000      GBP000    GBP000                 GBP000 
Executive 
Directors 
R P Edwards       209     -        13        133     101                  456 
K L Prior         151     8        11        101     77                   348 
Non-Executive 
Directors 
P A Lawrence***   40      -        -         -       -                    40 
R S Rose**        40      -        -         -       -                    40 
R K Wood**        6       -        -         -       -                    6 
Total             446     8        24        234     178                  890 
 
 

* The bonuses to Directors are determined and paid after the publication of annual results, so the above figures are awards made for the previous financial year. No bonus has been accrued for 2018.

 

**R S Rose resigned as Non-Executive Chairman on 1 September 2017. R K Wood was appointed as Senior Independent Director on 1 November 2017.

 

*** The payment of the Chairman's remuneration changed during the year and is now paid as a salary directly as an employee of Anpario PLC. Previously these amounts were paid to ECO Animal Health Group plc. For clarity and consistency, the salary figure above includes these amounts.

 

Key Activities

 

During the year, the Committee:

 
 
    -- Reviewed the salary and bonus arrangements to the Executive Directors 

and approved cost of living increases, where appropriate, for staff.

No cost of living adjustment has been made for Executive and

Non-Executive Directors.

 
    -- Reviewed the allocation of issued share capital for all incentive 

schemes.

 
    -- Reviewed proposals for the grant of share related incentive schemes. 
 
    -- Approved recommended proposals for short-term bonus incentives. 
 

Remuneration Policy and Advisors

 

The objectives of the remuneration policy are to ensure that the overall remuneration of senior executives is aligned with the performance of the Company and preserves an appropriate balance of annual profit delivery and longer term shareholder value.

 

The Committee keeps the remuneration policy, in particular the need for share ownership guidelines for Executive Directors, regularly under review and will take action whenever deemed necessary to ensure that remuneration is aligned with the overall strategic objectives of the Company.

 

The Committee seeks advice, if appropriate, from independent advisors where required on remuneration related matters.

 

Long Term Incentive Plans

 

The Executive Directors receive remuneration under three long term incentive plans: Enterprise Management Scheme ("EMI" which is now closed; Joint Share Ownership Plan ("JSOP"); and Save As You Earn Scheme ("SAYE").

 

Under the Company's EMI and SAYE Scheme the following Directors have the right to acquire Ordinary shares of 23p each as follows:

 
               Option      31 Dec  31 Dec 
               Price 
               (pence per 
               Share)      2018    2017 
R P Edwards    158.50      80,000  80,000 
               290.00      42,400  42,400 
               224.13      4,015   4,015 
               334.00      2,694   2,694 
K L Prior      158.50      80,000  80,000 
               290.00      42,400  42,400 
               224.13      4,015   4,015 
               334.00      2,694   2,694 
 
 

Share plan limits

 

There is a limit to the total number of new shares which may be issued under awards under Long Term Incentive Plans which might involve the issue of new shares. That limit is the total number of new shares over which future awards may be made, when added to the total number of shares issued and issuable under awards granted on 16 September 2016 and any awards which are outstanding as at that date shall not exceed 16.3% of the total of the number of shares in issue from time to time.

 

Joint Share Ownership Plan

 

The Joint Share Ownership Plan ("JSOP") and the Anpario plc Employees Shares Trust ("the Trust") were established and approved by resolution of the Non-Executive Directors on 26 September 2011. The JSOP provides for the acquisition by employees, including Executive Directors, of beneficial interests as joint owners (with the Trust) of Ordinary Shares in the Company upon the terms of a Joint Ownership Agreement ("JOA").

 

The terms of the JOAs provide, inter alia, that if jointly owned shares become vested and are sold, the proceeds of sale will be divided between the joint owners so that the participating Director receives an amount equal to any growth in the market value of the jointly owned Ordinary shares above the initial market value, less a "carrying cost" (equivalent to simple interest at 4.5 per cent per annum on the initial market value) and the Trust receives the initial market value of the jointly owned shares plus the carrying cost. Jointly owned Ordinary shares will become vested if the participant remains with the Company for a minimum period of 3 years.

 

The Directors interests in the JSOP shares are as follows:

 
               2018       2017 
R P Edwards    1,350,000  1,350,000 
K L Prior      1,200,000  1,200,000 
 
 

Directors' interests

 

The interests of the Directors who served during the period, as at 31 December 2018, in the ordinary shares of the Company were as follows: -

 
                    Ordinary shares 
                    of 23p each 
                  31 Dec     31 Dec 
                  2018       2017 
P A Lawrence      63,350     63,350 
R P Edwards       206,687    206,687 
K L Prior         206,800    206,800 
 
 

There was no change in the Directors' interests between 31 December 2018 and 6 March 2019.

 

Non-Executive Directors and Chairman

 

Remuneration of the Non-Executive directors is determined by the Chairman and the Chief Executive Officer. The Non-Executive Directors are not entitled to annual bonuses or employee benefits and their fees are subject to annual review.

 

The Chairman's remuneration is determined by Remuneration Committee in conjunction with the Chief Executive Officer. However, the Chairman is not entitled to vote on the matter.

 

Each of the Chairman and Non-Executive Director have a letter of appointment stating their annual fee and termination terms.

 

The Chairman and Non-Executive Director appointments are for a period of three years from the date of the letter of appointment. The appointments are terminable on three months written notice at any time by either the Company or the Non-Executive Director.

 

Executive Directors

 

The Executive Directors remuneration is determined by the Committee. They are eligible to participate in a discretionary annual bonus scheme which is based on annual target profit measures and corporate activities including acquisitions and disposals aligned with shareholder returns.

 

The Executive Directors are also eligible to participate in the employee long term incentive plans as mentioned above.

 

Richard Edwards

 

Richard Edwards is engaged as Chief Executive Officer of the Company under a service agreement dated 5 November 2006. His appointment is terminable by the Company on 12 months' written notice and the Executive on 6 months' notice.

 

Karen Prior

 

Karen Prior is engaged as Group Finance Director of the Company under a service agreement dated 1 October 2009. Her appointment is terminable by the Company on 12 months' written notice and the Executive on 6 months' notice.

 

Richard WoodChairman, Remuneration Committee6 March 2019

 

Audit committee report

 

Composition and meetings of the Audit Committee

 

The Audit Committee is comprised of the two Non-Executive Directors, whom the Board considers to be independent and is chaired by Peter Lawrence. Meetings are also attended, by invitation, by the Finance Director, external auditors and other management as appropriate.

 

The Committee meets at least twice each financial year with the external auditors and considers any issues that are identified during the course of their audit work. The Board is satisfied that the Committee members have recent and relevant financial experience.

 

The Committee met twice during the year ended 31 December 2018 with full attendance by the Committee members.

 

Role, responsibilities and terms of reference

 

The Audit Committee's role is to assist the Board in the effective discharge of its responsibilities for financial reporting and internal control. The Audit Committee's responsibilities include:

 

Financial reporting

 

Monitor the integrity of the financial statements of the Company, and any formal announcements relating to the Company's financial performance, reviewing significant financial reporting judgments contained in them focusing particularly on:

 
 
    -- The consistency of and any changes to accounting policies and 

practices;

 
    -- The methods used to account for significant or unusual transactions 

where different approaches are possible;

 
    -- Whether the Company has followed appropriate accounting standards and 

made appropriate estimates and judgments, taking into account the

views of the external auditor;

 
    -- The clarity of disclosure in the Company's financial reports and the 

context in which statements are made.

 

Internal controls and risk management

 
 
    -- Keep under review the adequacy and effectiveness of the Company's 

internal financial controls and internal control and risk management

systems;

 
    -- Review and approve the statements to be included in the annual report 

concerning internal controls and risk management.

 

Compliance, whistleblowing and fraud

 
 
    -- Review the Company's arrangements for its employees to raise concerns, 

in confidence, about possible wrong doing in financial reporting or

other matters so as to ensure that arrangements are in place for the

proportionate and independent investigation of such matters and for

appropriate follow-up action;

 
    -- Review the Company's systems and controls for the detection of fraud 

and prevention of bribery.

 

External audit

 

Consider and make recommendations to the Board, to be put to shareholders for approval at the AGM, in relation to the appointment, re-appointment and removal of the external auditor. The Committee shall oversee the selection process for a new auditor and if an auditor resigns, the Committee shall investigate the issues leading to this and decide whether any action is required. Oversee the relationship with the external auditor including (but not limited to):

 
 
    -- Recommendations on their remuneration, whether fees for audit or 

non-audit services and that the level of fees is appropriate to enable

an adequate audit to be conducted;

 
    -- Approval of their terms of engagement, including any engagement letter 

issued at the start of each audit and the scope of the audit;

 
    -- Assessing annually the external auditor's independence and objectivity 

taking into account relevant UK professional and regulatory

requirements and the relationship as a whole, including the provision

of any non-audit services;

 
    -- Satisfying itself that there are no relationships (such as family, 

employment, investment, financial or business) between the auditor and

the Company (other than in the ordinary course of business);

 
    -- Monitoring the auditor's compliance with relevant ethical and 

professional guidance on the rotation of audit partner;

 
    -- Assessing annually the qualifications, expertise and resources of the 

auditor and the effectiveness of the audit process which shall include

a report from the external auditor on their own internal quality

procedures;

 
    -- Develop and implement a policy on the engagement of the external 

auditor to supply non-audit services;

 
    -- Discuss with the external auditor(s) before the audit commences the 

nature and scope of the audit, and ensure co-ordination where more

than one audit firm is involved;

 
    -- Review the findings of the audit, discussing any major issues which 

arose during the audit, any problems and reservations arising from the

Interim and Final audits, and any matters the auditors may wish to

discuss (in the absence of management where necessary);

 
    -- Review the external auditor's management letter and management's 

response.

 

The Committee regularly reviews its terms of reference and makes recommendations to the Board for any changes as appropriate. The current terms of reference are available on the Company's website.

 

Independence of external auditors

 

The Committee reviews the independence of the external auditors, Deloitte LLP on an annual basis. It receives a detailed audit plan, from Deloitte LLP, identifying their assessment of the key risks. The Committee assesses the effectiveness of the audit process in addressing these matters through the reporting it receives from Deloitte LLP.

 

P A LawrenceChairman, Audit Committee6 March 2019

 

Risk management

 

We have examined in detail key risks and evaluated the likelihood and potential impact. These risks are the most significant but not necessarily the only ones associated with the Group and its businesses. In common with all businesses, we face risks of a generic nature, for example failure of projects, foreign exchange, supply chain disruption and the recruitment, development and retention of employees. The following table shows some of the risks that are more specific to our business together with details of the controls and mitigation in place to manage our exposure. More information on our risk management framework can be found in the Corporate Governance Statement.

 
1.Market                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      2.Political and Economic Risk 
Risk 
Risks                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Risks 
We sell to direct end users and through our distributor network  which are constantly targeted by competitors.  M & A activity resulting in market consolidation.                                                                                                                             Brexit uncertainty.  Exchange rate fluctuations.  Geopolitical risks including political and economic instability.  Bad debts or trade disputes. 
Changing market, legislative and regulatory needs.  Animal diseases e.g. African Swine Flu, Avian Flu, PEDv.  IP theft e.g. trademark infringements. 
Potential                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     Potential impact 
impact 
Lower sales revenue and profit.  Reduction in customers or                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Volatility in markets. Supply chain: delays, additional costs,  tariffs or lack of continuity. Regulatory changes.  Unable to sell or transport finished goods to EU. Unable to  import goods from EU.  Border delays.  Reduced revenue, increased costs and lower profitability. 
targets customers.  Loss of market share.  Loss of market. 
Control and                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   Control and mitigation 
mitigation 
Establishing a global marketing strategy with clearly defined  product and species related goals for each region.  Regular monitoring of sales budgets and sales prospects by the  management and the Board.  Regional and species diversity and an extensive range of  products              Established a cross functional team to assess and monitor Brexit  impact.  Increased inventory of EU sourced raw materials.  Extended terms provided to EU distributors to ensure supply in  short term.  Limiting and hedging of foreign currency exposure.  Wide geographic diversity reduces dependency in a single country  or region.  Rigorous customer and supplier due diligence and monitoring of  regional and customer exposures.  Use of credit insurance and letters of credit. 
with new product development and launches.  A clear and effective marketing strategy communicating the  benefits of Anpario solutions.  Close customer engagement, relationships to understand, and  address their needs. Global trademark watches and pre-emptive legal action. 
Risk rating                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Trend      Risk rating       Trend 
LikelihoodMedium                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   No change  LikelihoodMedium  Increasing 
Impact                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Impact Medium 
Medium 
 
 
3.Product Development                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            4.Production and Quality Risk 
Risk 
Risks                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Risks 
Failure to deliver new products due to pipeline delays or  products not meeting commercial expectations.  Product development is a complex, risky process                                                                                                                        Plant closures due to major accident or incident or disaster.  Health and Safety issues.  Inadequate or poor adherence to quality systems allow faulty  product to reach customer.  Defective raw materials  Defective plant and equipment in our manufacturing facility. 
involving  significant financial, R&D and other resources.  At the development stage it is difficult to determine whether a  new product will succeed. 
Potential                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Potential impact 
impact 
Reduction in competitiveness in the market. Lost opportunities.  A succession of trial failures could adversely affect our  ability to deliver shareholder expectations.  Our market position in key areas could                                                                 Loss of production for a significant period e.g. more than one  month potentially leading to loss of sales.  Accidents, fatality and possible fine or closure.  Poor product quality or product contamination.  Damage to customer relationship, reputation and financial loss. 
be affected, resulting in  reduced revenues and profits.  Where we are unable to develop and launch a product this would  result in impairment of intangible assets.  Valuable resources may be wasted. 
Control and                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Control and mitigation 
mitigation 
Current products are not at end of lifecycle. Continual  monitoring and review of current products is carried out by  global Technical Team. Different regions have markets that are  at different points in development.  Potential new development projects                    All products can be produced at approved toll manufacturers in  the UK. Business interruption and property insurance policies  arranged.  Third party advisor utilised and strict management controls  enforced. Employers' liability insurance arranged.  Continued investment in automation has improved product  consistency and quality.  Supplier accreditation, UFAS and FEMAS certification, 
are evaluated from a  commercial, financial and technical perspective. The pipeline is  reviewed regularly by the Board. Regular updates are provided to  the Board.  Each research project or trial is managed by qualified technical  managers. Projects                       HACCP and Trading Standards compliance. Public and product  liability insurance arranged. 
and trials are monitored to ensure that they  are completed on time, deliver expected outcomes and provide  useable data. Final review and evaluation to ensure learning.  Multiple studies are conducted to assess the effects of the  product on target species. 
We carry out a range of product  developments to reduce the risk and support major product  development.  In respect of all new product launches a detailed marketing plan  is established and progress against that plan is regularly  monitored. 
Risk rating                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Trend       Risk rating    Trend 
LikelihoodMedium                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     Decreasing  LikelihoodLow  No change 
Impact                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           Impact Medium 
Medium 
 
 
5.Systems Risk                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              6.Legislation, Regulatory and Non-compliance Risk 
Risks                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       Risks 
IT or communications failure, due to, accident or sabotage.  Cyber attack.  Data breach.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Failure to comply with export controls and sanctions.  Failure to comply with anti-bribery and corruption legislation.  Non-compliance with tax, legal or regulatory obligations.  Failure to comply with regulatory requirements. 
Potential impact                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Potential impact 
Unable to operate.  Criminal attack could be aimed at stealing money, extortion,  fraud, data theft etc.  GDPR imposes heavy financial penalties, plus reputational damage.                                                                                                                                                                                                 Litigation against Anpario, potential fines and reputational  damage.  Financial penalties, reputational damage, unable to operate in  certain jurisdictions.  Prevented from trading with countries e.g. Iran even though our  products are exempt from sanctions. 
Control and mitigation                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Control and mitigation 
Regular back up of data, third party provider for storage and  system support.  Firewall, regular back up of data, crime insurance in place.  Continual review and strengthening of processes, controls and  security.  Information Policy, Privacy Policy and Breach Notification  Policy issued during 2018.  Staff and partner awareness communication and training.     Vigilance and monitoring of all appropriate notifications to  ensure compliance and pre-emptive actions.  Clear communicated policies and Code of Conduct issued to all  employees and partners.  Internal training and awareness communications.  Support from external experts in all countries in which we  operate.  Due diligence is carried out on all customers, directors and  shareholders. 
Risk rating        Trend                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Risk rating       Trend 
LikelihoodMedium   Increasing                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               LikelihoodMedium  No change 
Impact High                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Impact Medium 
 
 

Risk Management

 

What has been successful?

 
 
    -- The implementation of our direct customer sales strategy, set up of 

new subsidiaries and launch of new products has mitigated global

challenges, reduced key customer reliance and created a platform for

future growth.

 
    -- We are working with DEFRA and industry peers to overcome the 

introduction of new onerous regulatory importation restrictions in

China.

 
    -- We successfully challenged the infringement of Orego-stim® trademark 

in China.

 
    -- We continually endeavour to improve our key control processes. During 

2018 we have:

Conducted IT disaster recovery exercises;

Communicated globally Anpario's Code of Conduct to reinforce

ethical behaviour;

Published a new suite of Data Privacy policy and procedural

guidance documents to support compliance with the EU General Data

Protection Regulation (GDPR);

Updated our Group Employment Handbook and Employment policies

supplemented by training and online videos;

Developed and coached key managers.

 

What can be improved?

 

We will continue to review our internal control framework and improve our risk management capabilities. We will revise our processes in response to new or emerging risks and to any improvements recommended by management, external auditors and advisors.

 

Brexit Contingency Planning

 

In the absence of clarity on post Brexit trading arrangements, we set out below some of the key steps being taken to plan for and mitigate any disruption resulting from changes to the way in which we currently conduct business. Anpario has been proactively engaged in understanding the potential scenarios and drawing up plans to mitigate any future risks to the business. We have appointed a steering group of experienced cross-functional professional managers who are working together with our stakeholders to manage the process and challenges we face.

 

Richard Edwards has met with Dr Liam Fox, Secretary of State for International Trade. John Butlin has met; Andrew Mitchell, HM Trade Commissioner for Europe; Amanda Brooks, Director Trade Remedies, Access and Controls, Department for International Trade (DIT) and Mark Carney, Governor of the Bank of England. Karen Prior, John Butlin and Cindy Thomson have attended numerous Brexit seminars with DIT, British Chambers of Commerce and lawyers.

 

Business Continuity

 

Anpario is a global business with a long history of both exporting and importing from EU and non-EU countries. We have Anpario subsidiaries in ten countries with representation in every continent. We continually review, explore options and implement planning decisions to optimise this representation and recruit key management to ensure continuity and growth of the business. The Group seeks to minimise reliance on key territories and individual customers and distributors by increasing geographic spread and market penetration.

 

We have recently incorporated a wholly owned subsidiary in Germany as part of our Brexit strategy; this will give us a base within the EU if we need it for manufacturing, warehousing, employment or other purpose.

 

Import of raw materials and packaging

 

Anpario import a significant proportion of raw materials and packaging from the EU. We potentially face congestion in ports and temporary import delays by customs agents and freight forwarders struggling with new or unclear legislation.

 

In 2018, the value of raw materials and packaging purchased from the EU 27 was GBP5.5m representing 40% of the total. Our EU partners are equally concerned to ensure that supply chains are not disrupted. Meetings and discussions have therefore been ongoing with key suppliers regarding planning for Brexit implications and potential outcomes. We have received assurances from our acid supplier that buffer stocks will be stored in the UK.

 

Where possible, we have purchased key raw materials and these are already in stock at our premises and a third party warehouse. We hold approximately one-month's raw material requirements. Anpario also imports goods from other territories outside of the EU and has a long history of dealing with import freight clearance and working with agents who provide effective professional customs clearance services. If necessary, this will enable us to purchase raw materials and packaging from alternative suppliers outside the EU.

 

Export of Anpario products

 

Anpario is a long established business, which has developed through exports and currently supplies more than 70 countries across the world. In 2018, GBP3.4m, approximately 12% of our sales were to EU 27 countries. In recent years, this has been declining as a proportion of total sales because growth has been predominately in Asia Pacific, Middle East and the Americas. We continue to review sales strategy and resources to create expansion across all regions and target growth territories both within and outside the EU.

 

We are currently processing orders for customers within the EU for despatch prior to 25 March to ensure arrival before 29 March. A number of customers have ordered between one and six month's additional stock. Anpario have agreed to invoice these consignments on extended terms of between 60 and 180 days.

 

Product regulatory requirements

 

All Anpario products conform to current EU standards and we expect this to continue. Our products are on the EU register of safe to use and do not require registration in EU. There is a risk that we may have to register products or that a certificate of free sale will be required after Brexit.

 

The Group has clearly established quality systems and procedures in place to obtain required regulatory approvals and always strives to meet or exceed regulatory requirements and ensure that its employees have detailed experience and knowledge of the regulations. The compliance and legal teams liaise closely with government bodies who oversee the industry standards such as DEFRA and remain constantly updated in respect of proposed and actual changes in order to ensure that the business is equipped to deal with and adhere to such changes.

 

Where any changes are identified which could affect our ability to continue to market and sell any of our products, a response team will be dedicated to mitigate such risk and to retain effective communication with the relevant regulators.

 

Trade Tariffs

 

In the absence of a trade agreement between the EU and the UK, trade tariffs may be applied on goods we import from the EU, which could affect future prices of Anpario products. They may also increase prices to our EU customers by the addition of any duties imposed on their purchases from our operations in the UK. We already continually review our pricing and will take action to control our cost base and to ensure that we remain as competitive as possible. We will communicate any potential impact to our customers directly and as soon as possible if they are likely to be affected.

 

Exchange rate

 

Anpario's businesses could be affected by significant currency fluctuations. As a consequence of Anpario's extensive international dealings, Board approved hedging policies have been in place for many years. In 2019, we have options in place to sell USD/buy GBP and to sell USD/buy EUR. Exchange rates are continually monitored and action will be taken as far as possible to mitigate negative effects and anticipated exposures through implementation of hedging policy and entering into financial instrument contracts.

 

Employees

 

We have EU citizens based in the UK who have been employed for a number of years; they have applied, or will be applying, for settled status. We do not anticipate any difficulties caused by the lack of free movement. We also employ people in several EU countries under direct local employment contracts.

 

Conclusion

 

Whilst it is not currently possible to fully understand and gauge the future obstacles facing UK & EU businesses we have continually been very active in making our views known to senior government ministers.

 

We are also actively working with government departments such as the Department for International Trade and DEFRA on issues such as trade barriers and regulations.

 

Rest assured, Anpario will continue to monitor developments and take whatever steps are necessary to protect our operations and minimise any disruption to our business.

 

Independent auditors' report to the members of Anpario plc

 

Report on the audit of the financial statements

 

Opinion

 

In our opinion:

 
 
    -- the financial statements of Anpario plc (the 'parent company') and its 

subsidiaries (the 'Group') give a true and fair view of the state of

the Group's and of the parent company's affairs as at 31 December 2018

and of the Group's profit for the year then ended;

 
    -- the group financial statements have been properly prepared in 

accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) as

adopted by the European Union;

 
    -- the parent company financial statements have been properly prepared in 

accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the European Union and as applied

in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act 2006; and

 
    -- the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the 

requirements of the Companies Act 2006.

 

We have audited the financial statements which comprise:

 
 
    -- the consolidated income statement; 
 
    -- the consolidated statement of comprehensive income; 
 
    -- the consolidated and parent company balance sheets; 
 
    -- the consolidated and parent company statements of changes in equity; 
 
    -- the consolidated and parent company cash flow statements; and 
 
    -- the related notes 1 to 27. 
 

The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and IFRSs as adopted by the European Union and, as regards the parent company financial statements, as applied in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act 2006.

 

Basis for opinion

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report.

 

We are independent of the Group and the parent company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the Financial Reporting Council's (the 'FRC's') Ethical Standard as applied to listed entities, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

 

Summary of our audit approach

 
Key audit matters                     The key audit matter 
                                      that we identified 
                                      in the current year was: 
 
                                      The valuation of intangible assets. 
Materiality                           The materiality that we 
                                      used for the group 
                                      financial statements was  GBP228,000 
                                      which was determined on the basis of 
                                      5% of profit before  taxation. 
Scoping                               Our full scope procedures included 
                                      the UK entity which covered 92% 
                                      of the total revenue for the Group 
                                      and all of the Group's profit. 
                                      We  have undertaken specific 
                                      procedures 
                                      on balances in the overseas 
                                      subsidiaries to address specific 
                                      risks to the group. 
Significant changes in our approach   The revenue recognition key audit 
                                      matter has been removed in 
                                      the  current year as this is 
                                      no longer an area of focus. 
 
 

Conclusions relating to going concern

 
We are required by ISAs (UK) to report in   We have nothing to report in 
respect of the following  matters where:    respect of these matters. 
 
the directors' use of the going 
concern basis of accounting in 
preparation of the financial statements 
is not appropriate; 
or  the directors have not disclosed 
in the financial statements 
any  identified material uncertainties 
that may cast 
significant  doubt about the group's 
or the parent company's ability 
to  continue to adopt the going 
concern basis of accounting 
for a  period of at least twelve 
months from the date when 
the  financial statements are 
authorised for issue. 
 
 

Key audit matters

 

Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgement, were of most significance in our audit of the financial statements of the current period and include the most significant assessed risks of material misstatement (whether or not due to fraud) that we identified. These matters included those which had the greatest effect on: the overall audit strategy, the allocation of resources in the audit; and directing the efforts of the engagement team.

 

These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the financial statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters.

 

In the prior year, revenue recognition specific to cut-off was a key audit matter, this is no longer considered as an area of focus.

 
The 
valuation 
of 
intangible 
assets 
Key            The Group has material balances for goodwill and intangible assets  of GBP11.4m (2017: GBP10.8m) as outlined in note 11. Per IAS 36,  goodwill and other intangibles with indefinite useful lives must be  tested for impairment annually. As, the carrying values of these  intangible assets are contingent on future cashflows there is a risk  of material misstatement that the value of these assets is impaired  if the cash flows do not meet the expectations of the Group. When  performing their impairment review management is required to make  judgements in assessing future cashflows that include assumptions  surrounding growth rates, capital expenditure and product sales. A  change in these assumptions may result in an impairment to the  carrying value of intangible assets and goodwill. As a result the  forecasts used by management to assess the carrying value of  intangible assets through a value in use calculation is deemed to be  a key audit matter. 
audit 
matter         In the prior year existence was also a key audit matter. This is  no longer considered to be a focus as we have identified the cash  flows used within the impairment review to be the focus area in  the current year. 
description 
               There is also a potential for fraud through possible manipulation  in relation to the cash flows used by management within their  impairment review calculation to avoid the need for impairment. 
How the        We have evaluated the design and implementation of the key  controls relating to the assessment of the carrying value of  these intangible assets.  We challenged management's assumptions used in the impairment  model specifically the cash flow projections by sensitising  against current run rates and growth levels that have been  achieved.  We challenged the levels of capital expenditure used in  management's model based on historical levels that have been  incurred.  We tested the integrity and arithmetical accuracy of  management's model and supporting calculations for the  impairment review.  We have reviewed management's paper on Brexit with responses to  all of the potential risks and the mitigations that are in place  that could impact future cashflows. 
scope 
of our 
audit 
responded 
to the 
key 
audit 
matter 
Key            We concur with the treatment and carrying value of the intangibles  balance and the corresponding amounts of amortisation and are  satisfied that the assumptions used in the impairment model are  within a suitable range. 
observations 
 
 

Our application of materiality

 

We define materiality as the magnitude of misstatement in the financial statements that makes it probable that the economic decisions of a reasonably knowledgeable person would be changed or influenced. We use materiality both in planning the scope of our audit work and in evaluating the results of our work.

 

Based on our professional judgement, we determined materiality for the financial statements as a whole as follows:

 
                              Group financial statements       Parent company financial 
                                                               statements 
Materiality                   GBP228,000 (2017: GBP200,000)        GBP205,000 (2017: GBP170,000) 
Basis for determining         5% of pre-tax profit             Parent materiality 
materiality                                                    equates to 3.5% 
                                                               of this entities pre-tax 
                                                               profit,  which is capped at 
                                                               90% of group materiality. 
Rationale for the benchmark   We have assessed the use         We have assessed the use 
applied                       of a headline measure            of a headline measure 
                              to be appropriate as             to be appropriate as 
                              this continues                   this continues 
                              to be a key driver               to be a key driver 
                              of the business's                of the business's 
                              value, is a  critical component  value, is a  critical component 
                              of the financial statements      of the financial statements 
                              and a key metric                 and a key metric 
                              that  management use to monitor  that  management use to monitor 
                              the performance of               the performance of 
                              the business and                 the business and 
                              communicate this                 communicate this 
                              to shareholders.                 to shareholders. 
 
 

We agreed with the Audit Committee that we would report to the Committee all audit differences in excess of GBP11,000 (2017: GBP10,000), as well as differences below that threshold that, in our view, warranted reporting on qualitative grounds. We also report to the Audit Committee on disclosure matters that we identified when assessing the overall presentation of the financial statements.

 

An overview of the scope of our audit

 

The full scope audit was in relation to the UK entity. As the overseas subsidiaries act as distribution channels for the UK entity these were not deemed to be significant. The UK entity comprises 78% (2017: 81%) of the Group's total external revenue. Excluding intercompany balances, the UK entity equates to 92% (2017: 92%) of the Group's total revenue.

 

There are no other areas of sub consolidation within the Group. Audit work to respond to the risks of material misstatement was performed directly by the group audit engagement team. Due to the nature of the Group, we have undertaken specific procedures on certain balances within the overseas subsidiaries, specifically in relation to the entity in the USA. Audit work to respond to the risks of material misstatement in these subsidiaries was performed directly by the group audit engagement team. The specific tests conducted on these balances were undertaken at a component materiality that was 40% (2017: 40% - 60%) of the Group's materiality. Component materiality ranged between GBP0.09m and GBP0.20m in the current year.

 

Other information

 
The directors are responsible                 We have nothing to report in 
for the other information.                    respect of these matters. 
The other  information comprises 
the information 
included in the annual report, 
other than the financial 
statements and our auditor's 
report thereon. 
 
Our opinion on the financial statements 
does not cover the 
other  information and, except 
to the extent otherwise 
explicitly stated  in our report, 
we do not express 
any form of assurance conclusion  thereon. 
 
In connection with our 
audit of the financial 
statements, our  responsibility is to read 
the other information and, in doing so, 
consider whether the other information 
is materially inconsistent 
with the financial 
statements or our knowledge 
obtained in the  audit or otherwise appears 
to be materially misstated. 
 
If we identify such material 
inconsistencies or apparent 
material  misstatements, we 
are required to determine 
whether there is a  material 
misstatement in the 
financial statements or a 
material  misstatement 
of the other information. 
If, based on the work 
we  have performed, we 
conclude that there is 
a material misstatement  of 
this other information, 
we are required to report that fact. 
 
 

Responsibilities of directors

 

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, and for such internal control as the directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

 

In preparing the financial statements, the directors are responsible for assessing the group's and the parent company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the group or the parent company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

 

Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

 

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.

 

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the FRC's website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's report.

 

Report on other legal and regulatory requirements

 

Opinions on other matters prescribed by 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 the directors' 

report for the financial year for which the financial statements are

prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and

 
    -- the strategic report and the directors' report have been prepared in 

accordance with applicable legal requirements.

 

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

 

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

 
Adequacy of explanations received           We have nothing to report in 
and accounting records                      respect of these matters. 
Under the Companies Act 
2006 we are required 
to report to you if,  in our opinion: 
 
we have not received all the 
information and explanations 
we  require for our audit; or  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 are not in agreement 
with the accounting records and returns. 
Directors' remuneration                     We have nothing to report in 
Under the Companies Act 2006 we are also    respect of these matters. 
required to report if in  our opinion 
certain disclosures of directors' 
remuneration 
have  not been made. 
 
 

Use of our report

 

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.

 

Matthew Hughes BSc (Hons) ACA (Senior statutory auditor)For and on behalf of Deloitte LLPStatutory AuditorLeeds, UK6 March 2019

 

Consolidated income statement

 

for the year ended 31 December 2018

 
                                    2018      2017 
                             Notes  GBP000      GBP000 
Revenue                      3      28,277    29,241 
Cost of sales                       (14,736)  (14,895) 
Gross profit                        13,541    14,346 
Administrative expenses             (9,076)   (10,358) 
Exceptional items            25     -         (627) 
Operating profit                    4,465     3,361 
Finance income               7      87        42 
Profit before income tax            4,552     3,403 
Income tax expense           10     (552)     (418) 
Profit for the year                 4,000     2,985 
Profit attributable to: 
Owners of the parent                4,000     2,985 
Non-controlling interests           -         - 
Profit for the year                 4,000     2,985 
Basic earnings per share     8      19.53p    14.66p 
Diluted earnings per share   8      18.52p    14.17p 
 
 

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income

 

for the year ended 31 December 2018

 
                                                          2018   2017 
                                                          GBP000   GBP000 
Profit for the year                                       4,000  2,985 
Items that may be subsequently reclassified 
to profit or loss: 
Exchange difference on translating foreign operations     (3)    109 
Cashflow hedge movements (net of deferred tax)            (184)  162 
Total comprehensive income for the period                 3,813  3,256 
Attributable to the owners of the parent:                 3,813  3,256 
 
 

Consolidated and parent company balance sheets

 

as at 31 December 2018

 
                                       Group             Company 
                                       2018     2017     2018     2017 
                                Notes  GBP000     GBP000     GBP000     GBP000 
Intangible assets               11     11,373   10,820   10,811   10,249 
Property, plant                 12     3,710    3,347    3,689    3,300 
and equipment 
Investment in subsidiaries      13     -        -        5,393    5,393 
Deferred tax assets             18     641      447      99       164 
Non-current assets                     15,724   14,614   19,992   19,106 
Inventories                     14     4,031    3,088    2,458    2,028 
Trade and other receivables     15     5,328    5,720    11,471   9,922 
Derivative financial            27     6        220      6        220 
instruments 
Cash and cash equivalents       16     12,912   13,559   11,580   12,142 
Current assets                         22,277   22,587   25,515   24,312 
Total assets                           38,001   37,201   45,507   43,418 
Called up share capital         21     5,360    5,350    5,360    5,350 
Share premium                          10,423   10,330   10,423   10,330 
Other reserves                  23     (5,449)  (5,406)  (3,297)  (3,257) 
Retained earnings               22     22,816   20,248   24,633   20,968 
Equity attributable to owners          33,150   30,522   37,119   33,391 
of the parent company 
Non-controlling interest               -        -        -        - 
Total equity                           33,150   30,522   37,119   33,391 
Deferred tax liabilities        18     1,182    1,044    1,182    1,044 
Non-current liabilities                1,182    1,044    1,182    1,044 
Trade and other payables        17     3,426    5,348    7,025    8,729 
Derivative financial            27     11       -        11       - 
instruments 
Current income tax                     232      287      170      254 
liabilities 
Current liabilities                    3,669    5,635    7,206    8,983 
Total liabilities                      4,851    6,679    8,388    10,027 
Total equity and                       38,001   37,201   45,507   43,418 
liabilities 
 
 

The Company has elected to take the exemption under Section 408 of the Companies Act 2006 to not present the Parent Company income statement. The profit for the Parent Company for the year was GBP5,097,000 (2017: GBP3,988,000).

 

The financial statements were approved by the Board and authorised for issue on 6 March 2019.

 
Richard P Edwards          Karen L Prior 
Chief Executive Officer    Group Finance Director 
 
 

Company Number: 03345857

 

Consolidated and parent company statements of changes in equity

 

for the year ended 31 December 2018

 

Group

 
                         Called upsharecapital  Sharepremium  Other reserves  Retainedearnings  Non-controllinginterest  Total equity 
                         GBP000                   GBP000          GBP000            GBP000              GBP000                     GBP000 
Balance at 1             5,291                  9,515         (5,112)         18,843            -                        28,537 
January 2017 
Profit for the period    -                      -             -               2,985             -                        2,985 
Currency translation     -                      -             109             -                 -                        109 
differences 
Cash flow hedge          -                      -             162             -                 -                        162 
reserve 
Total comprehensive      -                      -             271             2,985             -                        3,256 
income 
for the period 
Issue of share capital   59                     815           -               -                 -                        874 
Deferred tax regarding   -                      -             71              -                 -                        71 
share-based payments 
Joint share ownership    -                      -             (825)           -                 -                        (825) 
plan 
Share-based payment      -                      -             189             -                 -                        189 
adjustments 
Final dividend           -                      -             -               (1,152)           -                        (1,152) 
relating 
to 2016 
Interim dividend         -                      -             -               (428)             -                        (428) 
relating to 2017 
Transactions             59                     815           (565)           (1,580)           -                        (1,271) 
with owners 
Balance at 31 December   5,350                  10,330        (5,406)         20,248            -                        30,522 
2017 
Profit for the period    -                      -             -               4,000             -                        4,000 
Currency translation     -                      -             (3)             -                 -                        (3) 
differences 
Cash flow hedge          -                      -             (184)           -                 -                        (184) 
reserve 
Total comprehensive      -                      -             (187)           4,000             -                        3,813 
income 
for the period 
Issue of share capital   10                     93            -               -                 -                        103 
Share-based payment      -                      -             167             -                 -                        167 
adjustments 
Deferred tax regarding   -                      -             (23)            -                 -                        (23) 
share-based payments 
Final dividend           -                      -             -               (965)             -                        (965) 
relating 
to 2017 
Interim dividend         -                      -             -               (467)             -                        (467) 
relating to 2018 
Transactions             10                     93            144             (1,432)           -                        (1,185) 
with owners 
Balance at 31 December   5,360                  10,423        (5,449)         22,816            -                        33,150 
2018 
 
 

Company

 
                         Called upsharecapital  Sharepremium  Other reserves  Retainedearnings  Non-controllinginterest  Total equity 
                         GBP000                   GBP000          GBP000            GBP000              GBP000                     GBP000 
Balance at 1             5,291                  9,515         (2,854)         18,560            -                        30,512 
January 2017 
Profit for the period    -                      -             -               3,988             -                        3,988 
Cash flow hedge          -                      -             162             -                 -                        162 
reserve 
Total comprehensive      -                      -             162             3,988             -                        4,150 
income 
for the period 
Issue of share capital   59                     815           -               -                 -                        874 
Deferred tax regarding   -                      -             71              -                 -                        71 
share-based payments 
Joint share ownership    -                      -             (825)           -                 -                        (825) 
plan 
Share-based payment      -                      -             189             -                 -                        189 
adjustments 
Final dividend           -                      -             -               (1,152)           -                        (1,152) 
relating 
to 2016 
Interim dividend         -                      -             -               (428)             -                        (428) 
relating to 2017 
Transactions             59                     815           (565)           (1,580)           -                        (1,271) 
with owners 
Balance at 31 December   5,350                  10,330        (3,257)         20,968            -                        33,391 
2017 
Profit for the period    -                      -             -               5,097             -                        5,097 
Cash flow hedge          -                      -             (184)           -                 -                        (184) 
reserve 
Total comprehensive      -                      -             (184)           5,097             -                        4,913 
income 
for the period 
Issue of share capital   10                     93            -               -                 -                        103 
Share-based payment      -                      -             167             -                 -                        167 
adjustments 
Deferred tax regarding   -                      -             (23)            -                 -                        (23) 
share-based payments 
Final dividend           -                      -             -               (965)             -                        (965) 
relating 
to 2017 
Interim dividend         -                      -             -               (467)             -                        (467) 
relating to 2018 
Transactions             10                     93            144             (1,432)           -                        (1,185) 
with owners 
Balance at 31 December   5,360                  10,423        (3,297)         24,633            -                        37,119 
2018 
 
 

Consolidated and parent company statements of cash flows

 

for the year ended 31 December 2018

 
                                        Group             Company 
                                        2018     2017     2018     2017 
                                        GBP000     GBP000     GBP000     GBP000 
Cash generated from operating           3,233    5,583    3,065    5,159 
activities 
Income tax paid                         (673)    (349)    (629)    (349) 
Net cash generated from                 2,560    5,234    2,436    4,810 
operating activities 
Investment in subsidiary                (132)    (514)    -        (828) 
Purchases of property,                  (695)    (151)    (692)    (146) 
plant and equipment 
Proceeds from disposal of tangible      -        44       -        1 
and intangible assets 
Payments to acquire intangible assets   (1,106)  (624)    (1,104)  (622) 
Interest received                       87       42       127      66 
Net cash used in investing activities   (1,846)  (1,203)  (1,669)  (1,529) 
Joint Share Ownership Plan              -        (825)    -        (825) 
Proceeds from issuance of shares        103      874      103      874 
Dividend paid to Company's              (1,432)  (1,580)  (1,432)  (1,580) 
shareholders 
Net cash used in financing activities   (1,329)  (1,531)  (1,329)  (1,531) 
Net (decrease)/increase in              (615)    2,500    (562)    1,750 
cash and cash equivalents 
Effect of exchange rate changes         (32)     (53)     -        - 
Cash and cash equivalents at            13,559   11,112   12,142   10,392 
the beginning of the year 
Cash and cash equivalents               12,912   13,559   11,580   12,142 
at the end of the year 
 
 
                                       Group           Company 
                                       2018     2017   2018     2017 
                                       GBP000     GBP000   GBP000     GBP000 
Cash generated from operating 
activities 
Profit before income tax               4,552    3,403  5,821    4,435 
Net finance income                     (87)     (42)   (127)    (66) 
Depreciation, amortisation             871      825    845      796 
and impairment 
Loss on disposal of property,          13       19     -        19 
plant and equipment 
Share-based payments                   167      189    167      189 
Fair value adjustment to derivatives   32       (44)   32       (44) 
Changes in working capital: 
Inventories                            (900)    (855)  (430)    (370) 
Trade and other receivables            401      965    (1,539)  (696) 
Trade and other payables               (1,816)  1,123  (1,704)  896 
Net cash generated from                3,233    5,583  3,065    5,159 
operating activities 
 
 

Notes to the financial statements

 

for the year ended 31 December 2018

 

1.General information

 

Anpario plc ("the Company") and its Subsidiaries (together "the Group") produce and distribute natural feed additives for animal health, hygiene and nutrition. The Company is traded on the Alternative Investment Market ("AIM") of the London Stock Exchange and is incorporated and domiciled in the UK. The address of its registered office is Manton Wood Enterprise Park, Worksop, Nottinghamshire, S80 2RS. The presentation currency of the Group is pounds sterling. For details of the basis of consolidation see note 2.2.

 

2.Summary of significant accounting policies

 

2.1.Basis of preparation

 

The Group has presented its financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRSs"), as endorsed by the European Union, IFRS IC interpretations and the Companies Act 2006 applicable to companies reporting under IFRS. The financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis under the historical cost convention.

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Although these estimates are based on management's best knowledge of the amount, event or actions, actual results ultimately may differ from those estimates.

 

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an on-going basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised if the revision affects only that period, or in a period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects both current and future periods.

 

The principal accounting policies of the Group are set out below, and have been applied consistently in dealing with items which are considered material in relation to the Group's financial statements.

 

The Company has taken advantage of the exemption provided in section 408 of the Companies Act 2006 not to publish its individual income statement and related notes.

 

2.2.Basis of consolidation

 

The consolidated financial statements comprise the financial statements of the Company and its Subsidiaries drawn up to 31 December 2018.

 

Subsidiaries are all entities (including special purpose entities) over which the Group has the power to govern the financial and operating policies generally accompanying a shareholding of more than one half of the voting rights. The existence and effect of potential voting rights that are currently exercisable or convertible are considered when assessing whether the Group controls another entity. The Group also assesses existence of control where it does not have more than 50% of the voting power but is able to govern the financial and operating policies by virtue of de-facto control.

 

De-facto control may arise in circumstances where the size of the Group's voting rights relative to the size and dispersion of holdings of other shareholders give the Group the power to govern the financial and operating policies, etc. Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control is transferred to the Group. They are de-consolidated from the date that control ceases.

 

The Group applies the acquisition method to account for business combinations. The consideration transferred for the acquisition of a Subsidiary is the fair values of the assets transferred, the liabilities incurred to the former owners of the acquiree and the equity interests issued by the Group. The consideration transferred includes the fair value of any asset or liability resulting from a contingent consideration arrangement. Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities and contingent liabilities assumed in a business combination are measured initially at their fair values at the acquisition date. The Group recognises any non-controlling interest in the acquiree on an acquisition-by-acquisition basis, either at fair value or at the non-controlling interest's proportionate share of the recognised amounts of acquiree's identifiable net assets.

 

Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred. If the business combination is achieved in stages, the acquisition date carrying value of the acquirer's previously held equity interest in the acquiree is remeasured to fair value at the acquisition date; any gains or losses arising from such re-measurement are recognised in profit or loss.

 

Any contingent consideration to be transferred by the Group is recognised at fair value at the acquisition date. Subsequent changes to the fair value of the contingent consideration that is deemed to be an asset or liability is recognised in accordance with IAS 39 in profit or loss. Contingent consideration that is classified as equity is not re-measured and its subsequent settlement is accounted for within equity.

 

Goodwill is initially measured as the excess of the aggregate of the consideration transferred and the fair value of non-controlling interest over the net identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed. If this consideration is lower than the fair value of the net assets of the Subsidiary acquired, the difference is recognised in profit or loss.

 

Inter-company transactions, balances, income and expenses on transactions between Group companies are eliminated. Profits and losses resulting from intercompany transactions that are recognised in assets are also eliminated. Accounting policies of Subsidiaries have been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the Group.

 

2.3.Revenue recognition

 

On 1 January 2018, the Group adopted IFRS 15 'Revenue from Contracts with Customers', which did not result in a classification or measurement adjustment to retained earnings on transition or a restatement of comparative information.

 

Revenue comprises the fair value of the consideration received or receivable for the sale of goods in the ordinary course of the Group's activities. Revenue is shown net of value added tax, returns, rebates and discounts and after eliminating sales within the Group.

 

Revenue is derived principally from the sales of goods and in some instances the goods are sold on Cost and Freight (CFR) or Cost, Insurance and Freight (CIF) Incoterms. When goods are sold on a CFR or CIF basis, the Group is responsible for providing these services (shipping and insurance) to the customer, sometimes after the date at which Anpario has lost control of the goods. Revenue is recognised when the performance obligations have been satisfied, which is once control of the goods has transferred from Anpario to the buyer. Anpario considers revenue related to the shipping and insurance service element of the contract to be immaterial and does not consider there to be separate performance obligations.

 

2.4.Segment reporting

 

Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting to the chief operating decision-maker. The chief operating decision-maker, who is responsible for allocating resources and assessing performance of the operating segments, has been identified as the Board.

 

2.5.Foreign currency translation

 

Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into pounds sterling at the rates of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. Transactions in foreign currencies are recorded at the rate ruling at the date of the transaction. All differences are included in the profit or loss for the period.

 
 
    -- Functional and presentational currency 
 

Items included in the financial statements of each of the Group's entities are measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates ("functional currency"). The consolidated financial statements are presented in pounds sterling, which is the Company's functional and presentational currency.

 
 
    -- Transactions and balances 
 

Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency using exchange rates prevailing at the date of the transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the translation at period end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are recognised in the income statement, except when deferred in equity as qualifying cash flow hedges and qualifying net investment hedges.

 

Translation differences on non-monetary financial assets and liabilities are reported as part of the fair value gain or loss. Translation differences on non-monetary financial assets and liabilities such as equities held at fair value through profit or loss are recognised as part of the fair value gain or loss.

 
 
    -- Group companies 
 

The results and financial position of all Group entities that have a functional currency different from the presentational currency are translated into the presentational currency as follows:

 
 
    -- assets and liabilities for each balance sheet presented are translated 

at the closing exchange rate at the date of the balance sheet;

 
    -- income and expenses for each income statement are translated at 

average exchange rates (unless this average is not a reasonable

approximation of the cumulative effect of the rates prevailing on the

transaction dates, in which case the income and expenses are

translated at the rate on the dates of the transaction) ; and

 
    -- all resulting exchange differences are recognised as a separate 

component of equity.

 

On consolidation, exchange differences arising from the translation of the net investment in foreign operations, and of borrowings and other currency instruments designated as hedges of such investments, are taken to shareholders' equity. When a foreign operation is partially disposed of or sold, exchange differences that were recognised in equity are recognised in the income statement as part of the gain or loss on sale. Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of a foreign entity are treated as assets and liabilities of the foreign entity and translated at the closing exchange rate.

 

2.6.Intangible assets

 
 
    -- Patents, trademarks and registrations 
 

Separately acquired patents, trademarks and registrations are shown at historical cost. Patents, trademarks and registrations have finite useful lives and are carried at cost less accumulated amortisation. Amortisation is calculated using the straight-line method to allocate the cost of patents, trademarks and registrations over their estimated useful lives of 5 to 20 years.

 
 
    -- Goodwill 
 

Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the Group's share of the identifiable net assets acquired. Goodwill is reviewed for impairment at least annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate a potential impairment. Goodwill is carried at cost less accumulated impairment losses and is allocated to the appropriate cash-generating unit for the purpose of impairment testing. Any impairment is recognised immediately through the income statement and is not subsequently reversed.

 
 
    -- Development costs 
 

Development costs are stated at cost less accumulated amortisation and impairment. Development costs are recognised if it is probable that there will be future economic benefits attributable to the asset, the cost of the asset can be measured reliably, the asset is separately identifiable and there is control over the use of the asset. The assets are amortised when available for use on a straight-line basis over the period over which the Group expects to benefit from these assets. Research expenditure is written off to the income statement in the year in which it is incurred.

 

Where appropriate, once development work has been completed the asset(s) generated may be reclassified to another intangible asset category and be subjected to the relevant accounting treatment as defined in this note.

 

Development costs that are directly attributable to the design and testing of identifiable and unique products controlled by the Group are recognised as intangible assets when the following criteria are met:

 
 
    -- it is technically feasible to complete the product so that it will be 

available for use;

 
    -- management intends to complete the product and use or sell it; 
 
    -- there is an ability to use or sell the product; 
 
    -- it can be demonstrated how the product will generate probable future 

economic benefits;

 
    -- adequate technical, financial and other resources to complete the 

development and to use or sell the product are available; and

 
    -- the expenditure attributable to the product during its development can 

be reliably measured.

 

Directly attributable costs that are capitalised as part of the product include the development employee costs and an appropriate portion of relevant overheads.

 
 
    -- Brands 
 

Brands are stated at cost less accumulated amortisation and impairment. Brand names acquired in a business combination are recognised at fair value based on an expected royalty value at the acquisition date. Useful lives of brand names are estimated and amortised over 10 to 20 years, except where they are deemed to have an indefinite life and consequently are not amortised. Brands with an indefinite useful life are reviewed for impairment at least annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate a potential impairment. However, they are allocated to appropriate cash-generating units and subject to impairment testing on an annual basis. Any impairment is recognised immediately through the income statement and is not subsequently reversed.

 
 
    -- Customer relationships 
 

Customer relationships acquired in a business combination are recognised at fair value at the acquisition date. Customer relationships are deemed to have a finite useful life and are carried at original fair value less accumulated amortisation. Amortisation is calculated using the straight-line method over the expected useful life of 10 years.

 

2.7.Impairment of non-financial assets

 

The carrying amounts of the Group's assets are reviewed at each balance sheet date to determine whether there is any indication of impairment, if so the asset's recoverable amount is estimated. The recoverable amount is the higher of its fair value less costs to sell and its value in use. For intangible assets that are not yet available for use, goodwill or other intangible assets with an indefinite useful life, an impairment test is performed at each balance sheet date.

 

In assessing value in use, the expected future cash flows from the asset are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. An impairment loss is recognised in the income statement whenever the carrying amount of an asset or its cash-generating unit exceeds its recoverable amount.

 

A previously recognised impairment loss is reversed if the recoverable amount increases as a result of a change in the estimates used to determine the recoverable amount, but not to an amount higher than the carrying amount that would have been determined (net of depreciation and or amortisation) had no impairment loss been recognised in prior years. For goodwill, a recognised impairment loss is not reversed.

 

2.8.Investments

 

Investments in Subsidiaries are stated at cost less provision for diminution in value.

 

2.9.Property, plant and equipment

 

Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment. Cost includes the original purchase price of the asset and the costs attributable to bringing the asset to its working condition for its intended use. Land is not depreciated. Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost less estimated residual value of each asset over its expected useful life, as follows:

 
Buildings                           50 years or period of lease if shorter 
Plant and machinery                 3-10 years 
Fixtures, fittings and equipment    3-10 years 
 
 

Assets in the course of construction for production, supply or administrative purposes, or for purposes not yet determined, are carried at cost, less any recognised impairment loss. Cost includes professional fees and, for qualifying assets, borrowing costs capitalised in accordance with the Group's accounting policy. Depreciation of these assets, on the same basis as other assets, commences when the assets are ready for their intended use.

 

The carrying amounts of the Group's assets are reviewed at each balance sheet date to determine whether there is any indication of impairment and an impairment loss is recognised in the income statement where appropriate.

 

Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing the proceeds with the carrying amount and are recognised within the income statement.

 

2.10.Inventories

 

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost is determined using the average cost method. The cost of finished goods comprises raw materials, direct labour, other direct costs and related production overheads. Net realisable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business.

 

2.11.Trade receivables

 

Trade receivables are recognised and carried at original invoice amounts less an allowance for any amount estimated to be uncollectable.

 

2.12.Trade payables

 

Trade payables are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of business from suppliers. Trade payables are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less (or in the normal operating cycle of the business if longer). If not, they are presented as noncurrent liabilities.

 

2.13.Cash and cash equivalents

 

Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash and short-term deposits with banks, other short-term highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less and bank overdrafts.

 

2.14.Derivative financial instruments

 

On 1 January 2018, the Group adopted IFRS 9 'Financial Instruments', which replaced IAS 39 'Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement'. The new standard has been applied retrospectively, but did not result in a material change the Group's accounting policies or a restatement or prior period financial assets and liabilities.

 

The Group designates certain hedging instruments, which include derivatives, embedded derivatives and non-derivatives in respect of foreign currency risk, as either fair value hedges, cash flow hedges, or hedges of net investments in foreign operations. Hedges of foreign exchange risk on firm commitments are accounted for as cash flow hedges.

 

At the inception of the hedge relationship, the entity documents the relationship between the hedging instrument and the hedged item, along with its risk management objectives and its strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions. Furthermore, at the inception of the hedge and on an ongoing basis, the Group documents whether the hedging instrument is highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of the hedged item.

 

The Group uses derivative financial instruments to manage certain exposures to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, these have been designated as qualifying cash flow hedges.

 

IFRS 9 removes the requirement to demonstrate hedge effectiveness between a range of 80-125% and instead requires that you can demonstrate an economic relationship between the hedged item and hedging instrument. The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges is recognised in other comprehensive income and accumulated in reserves in equity. The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognised immediately in profit or loss within other income or other expense. Amounts accumulated in equity are reclassified to profit or loss in the periods when the hedged item affects profit or loss (for instance when the forecast sale that is hedged takes place).

 

IFRS 9 also impacts the provision for trade receivables. The Group always recognises lifetime ECL for trade receivables. The expected credit losses on these financial assets are estimated using a provision matrix based on the Group's historical credit loss experience, adjusted for factors that are specific to the debtors, general economic conditions and an assessment of both the current as well as the forecast direction of conditions at the reporting date, including time value of money where appropriate.

 

Lifetime ECL represents the expected credit losses that will result from all possible default events over the expected life of a financial instrument. In contrast, 12m ECL represents the portion of lifetime ECL that is expected to result from default events on a financial instrument that are possible within 12 months after the reporting date.

 

There has been no material impact on adoption of IFRS 9.

 

2.15.Leasing

 

The Group has entered into leases on certain property, plant and equipment.

 

Leases in which a significant portion of the risks and rewards of ownership are retained by the lessor are classified as operating leases. Payments made under operating leases are charged to the income statement on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease.

 

2.16.Exceptional items

 

Exceptional items are disclosed separately in the financial statements where it is necessary to do so to provide further understanding of the financial performance of the Group. They are material items of income or expense that have been shown separately due to the significance of their nature or amount.

 

2.17.Taxation

 

The tax expense for the period comprises current and deferred tax. Tax is recognised in the income statement, except to the extent that it relates to items recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity. In this case the tax is also recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity, respectively.

 

The current income tax charge is calculated on the basis of the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date in the countries where the Company's Subsidiaries operate and generate taxable income. Management periodically evaluates positions taken in tax returns with respect to situations in which applicable tax regulation is subject to interpretation. It establishes provisions where appropriate on the basis of amounts expected to be paid to the tax authorities.

 

Deferred income tax is recognised, using the liability method, on temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the consolidated financial statements. However, deferred tax liabilities are not recognised if they arise from the initial recognition of goodwill; deferred income tax is not accounted for if it arises from initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction other than a business combination that at the time of the transaction affects neither accounting nor taxable profit or loss. Deferred income tax is determined using tax rates and laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date and are expected to apply when the related deferred income tax asset is realised or the deferred income tax liability is settled.

 

Deferred income tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences can be utilised.

 

Deferred income tax is provided on temporary differences arising on investments in Subsidiaries, except where the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference is controlled by the Group and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

 

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when the deferred income tax assets and liabilities relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority on either the same taxable entity or different taxable entities where there is an intention to settle the balances on a net basis.

 

2.18.Employee benefits

 
 
    -- Share-based payments 
 

The Group issues equity-settled share-based payments and shares under the Joint Share Ownership Plan ("JSOP") and Company Share Option Plan ("CSOP") to certain employees. These are measured at fair value and along with associated expenses are recognised as an expense in the income statement with a corresponding increase (net of expenses) in equity. The fair values of these payments are measured at the dates of grant using appropriate option pricing models, taking into account the terms and conditions upon which the awards are granted. The fair value is recognised over the period during which employees become unconditionally entitled to the awards subject to the Group's estimate of the number of awards which will lapse, either due to employees leaving the Group prior to vesting or due to non-market based performance conditions not being met.

 

The Group operates a number of equity-settled, share-based compensation plans, under which the entity receives services from employees as consideration for equity instruments (options) of the Group. The fair value of the employee services received in exchange for the grant of the options is recognised as an expense. The total amount to be expensed is determined by reference to the fair value of the options granted:

 
 
    -- including any market performance conditions (for example, an entity's 

share price);

 
    -- excluding the impact of any service and non-market performance vesting 

conditions (for example, profitability, sales growth targets and

remaining an employee of the entity over a specified time period); and

 
    -- including the impact of any non-vesting conditions (for example, the 

requirement for employees to save).

 

Non-market performance and service conditions are included in assumptions about the number of options that are expected to vest. The total expense is recognised over the vesting period, which is the period over which all of the specified vesting conditions are to be satisfied.

 

In addition, in some circumstances employees may provide services in advance of the grant date and therefore the grant date fair value is estimated for the purposes of recognising the expense during the period between service commencement period and grant date.

 

At the end of each reporting period, the Group revises its estimates of the number of options that are expected to vest based on the non-market vesting conditions. It recognises the impact of the revision to original estimates, if any, in the income statement, with a corresponding adjustment to equity.

 

When the options are exercised, the Company issues new shares. The proceeds received net of any directly attributable transaction costs are credited to share capital (nominal value) and share premium.

 

The grant by the Company of options over its equity instruments to the employees of Subsidiary undertakings in the Group is treated as a capital contribution. The fair value of employee services received, measured by reference to the grant date fair value, is recognised over the vesting period as an increase to investment in Subsidiary undertakings, with a corresponding credit to equity in the Parent entity financial statements.

 

The social security contributions payable in connection with the grant of the share options is considered an integral part of the grant itself, and the charge will be treated as a cash-settled transaction.

 
 
    -- Pension obligations 
 

The Group operates a defined contribution pension scheme and contributes a percentage of salary to individual employee schemes. Pension contributions are recognised as an expense as they fall due and the Group has no further payment obligations once the contributions have been paid.

 

2.19.Equity

 

Share capital is determined using the nominal value of Ordinary shares that have been issued. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares or options are shown in equity as a deduction, net of tax, from the proceeds.

 

The share premium account includes any premiums received on the initial issuing of the share capital. Any transaction costs associated with the issue of shares are deducted from the share premium account, net of any related income tax benefits.

 

The premium arising on the issue of consideration shares to acquire a business is credited to the merger reserve.

 

Amounts arising on the restructuring of equity and reserves to protect creditor interests are credited to the special reserve.

 

Exchange differences arising on the consolidation of foreign operations are taken to the translation reserve.

 

The share-based payment reserve is credited with amounts charged to the income statement in respect of the movements in the fair value of equity-settled share-based payments and shares issued under the JSOP.

 

The JSOP shares reserve arises when the Company issues equity share capital under the JSOP, which is held in trust by Anpario plc Employees' Share Trust ("the Trust"). The interests of the Trust are consolidated into the Group's financial statements and the relevant amount treated as a reduction in equity.

 

2.20.Dividend distribution

 

Dividend distribution to the Company's shareholders is recognised as a liability in the Group's financial statements in the period in which the dividends are approved by the Company's shareholders.

 

2.21.Financial risk management

 

The Group is exposed to a number of financial risks, including credit risk, liquidity risk, exchange rate risk and capital risk.

 
 
    -- Credit risk 
 

Credit risk is the risk of financial loss to the Group if a customer or counterparty to a financial instrument fails to meet its contractual obligations, and arises principally from the Group's receivables from customers and deposits with financial institutions. The Group's exposure to credit risk is influenced mainly by the individual characteristics of each customer. The Group has an established credit policy under which each new customer is analysed for creditworthiness before the Group's payment and delivery terms and conditions are offered. Where possible, risk is minimised through settlement via letters of credit and purchase of credit insurance. The Group's investment policy restricts the investment of surplus cash to interest bearing deposits with banks and building societies with high credit ratings.

 
 
    -- Liquidity risk 
 

Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they fall due. The Group's approach to managing liquidity is to ensure that it will always have sufficient liquidity to meet its liabilities when due, under both normal and stressed conditions, without incurring unacceptable losses or damage to the Group's reputation.

 
 
    -- Exchange rate risk 
 

The Group's principal functional currency is pounds sterling. However, during the year the Group had exposure to euros, US dollars and other currencies. The Group's policy is to maintain natural hedges, where possible, by matching revenue and receipts with expenditure and put in place hedging instruments as considered appropriate to mitigate the risk.

 
 
    -- Capital risk 
 

The Group's objectives when managing capital are to safeguard the Group's ability to continue as a going concern in order to provide returns for shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders and to maintain an optimal capital structure to reduce the cost of capital. In order to maintain or adjust the capital structure, the Group may adjust the amount of dividends payable to shareholders, return capital to shareholders, issue new shares or sell assets to reduce debt.

 

2.22.Key accounting judgements and critical accounting estimates

 

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:

 
 
    -- Estimated impairment value of intangible assetsThe Group tests 

annually whether intangible assets have suffered any impairment.

Impairment provisions are recorded as applicable based on Directors'

estimates of recoverable values. Following the assessment of the

recoverable amount of goodwill and intangibles of the Group that

totalled GBP11.4m as per note 14 of the financial statements, the

directors consider the recoverable amount of goodwill and intangibles

to be supported by their value in use calculation. Budgets comprise

forecasts of revenue, staff costs and overheads based on current and

anticipated market conditions that have been considered and approved

by the Board. Whilst the Group is able to manage aspects of costs, the

revenue projections are inherently uncertain due to the short term

nature of business and unstable market conditions driven by external

factors such as African Swine Fever. The sensitivity analysis in

respect of the recoverable amount of goodwill is presented in note 11.

 

The Directors do not consider there to be any key judgements.

 

2.23.Impact of accounting standards and interpretations

 

IFRS 16 Leases: will have a material impact on the reported assets and liabilities for the Group. The standard will be applied for accounting periods starting after 1 January 2019, therefore the Group's first financial year that is impacted will be the year ending 31 December 2019. IFRS16 requires operating leases to be capitalised on the statement of financial position. The Directors have performed a review of the effect of IFRS 16 on the Group and the indicative impact is to increase fixed assets by approximately GBP0.2m at 31 December 2018 being the present value of future lease obligations with a corresponding increase in liabilities of GBP0.2m. The impact on the profit before tax in the Consolidated Income Statement is not expected to be material. The cash flow impact is nil.

 

3. Segment information

 

All revenues from external customers are derived from the sale of goods in the ordinary course of business to the agricultural markets and are measured in a manner consistent with that in the income statement.

 

Management has determined the operating segments based on the reports reviewed by the Board that are used to make strategic decisions. The Board considers the business from a geographic perspective.

 

Management considers adjusted EBITDA to assess the performance of the operating segments, which comprises profit before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation adjusted for share-based payments and exceptional items.

 

Inter-segment revenue is charged at prevailing market prices or in accordance with local transfer pricing regulations.

 
                Americas  Asia    Europe   MEA    Head Office  Total 
                GBP000      GBP000    GBP000     GBP000   GBP000         GBP000 
Year ended 31 
December 
2018 
Total           5,703     11,563  12,341   3,614  -            33,221 
segmental 
revenue 
Inter-segment   -         -       (4,944)  -      -            (4,944) 
revenue 
Revenue from    5,703     11,563  7,397    3,614  -            28,277 
external 
customers 
Adjusted        1,444     3,776   2,971    1,097  (3,834)      5,454 
EBITDA 
Depreciation    (7)       (12)    -        -      (852)        (871) 
and 
amortisation 
Net finance     -         1       -        2      84           87 
income 
Share-based     -         -       -        -      (118)        (118) 
payments 
Exceptional     -         -       -        -      -            - 
items 
Profit before   1,437     3,765   2,971    1,099  (4,720)      4,552 
income tax 
Income tax      103       (72)    -        -      (583)        (552) 
Profit for      1,540     3,693   2,971    1,099  (5,303)      4,000 
the period 
Total assets                                      38,001       38,001 
Total                                             (4,851)      (4,851) 
liabilities 
 
 
                   Americas  Asia    Europe   MEA    Head Office  Total 
                   GBP000      GBP000    GBP000     GBP000   GBP000         GBP000 
Year ended 31 
December 
2017 
Total              6,013     12,461  10,967   3,984  -            33,425 
segmental 
revenue 
Inter-segment      -         -       (4,184)  -      -            (4,184) 
revenue 
Revenue from       6,013     12,461  6,783    3,984  -            29,241 
external 
customers 
Adjusted           1,818     3,775   2,641    1,528  (4,690)      5,072 
EBITDA 
Depreciation       (13)      (10)    -        -      (802)        (825) 
and 
amortisation 
Net                1         1       -        2      38           42 
finance 
(income)/expense 
Share-based        -         -       -        -      (259)        (259) 
payments 
Exceptional        (36)      (254)   (3)      (42)   (292)        (627) 
items 
Profit before      1,770     3,512   2,638    1,488  (6,005)      3,403 
income tax 
Income tax         17        (31)    -        (1)    (403)        (418) 
Profit for         1,787     3,481   2,638    1,487  (6,408)      2,985 
the year 
Total assets                                         37,201       37,201 
Total                                                (6,679)      (6,679) 
liabilities 
 
 

4. Profit for the year

 

Profit for the year has been arrived at after charging/(crediting) the following items:

 
                                                     2018    2017 
                                                     GBP000    GBP000 
Cost of inventories recognised as an expense         11,510  11,693 
Employee expenses (note 6)                           5,588   6,087 
Share-based payment charges                          118     259 
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment        319     327 
Amortisation of intangible assets                    552     498 
Loss on disposal of tangible and intangible assets   13      19 
Net foreign exchange (gains)/losses                  (275)   642 
Research and development expenditure                 45      24 
Acquisition, closure and restructuring               -       627 
Other expenses                                       5,942   5,704 
Total cost of sales, distribution                    23,812  25,880 
and administrative expenses 
 
 

In addition to research and development expenditure noted above, amounts included in employee expenses above totalling GBP562,000 (2017: GBP610,000) relate to our specialist technical team remuneration costs. The team includes specialists in poultry, swine, ruminant & aquaculture species. Out of this we have capitalised internal costs of GBP275,000 and expended a further GBP453,000 on external trials in respect of current development projects.

 

5. Auditor's remuneration

 

During the year the Group obtained the following services from the Company's auditors:

 
                                                         2018  2017 
                                                         GBP000  GBP000 
Fees payable to Company's auditors for                   58    57 
the audit of Parent Company  and 
consolidated financial statements 
Fees payable to Company's auditors for other services: 
The audit of Company Subsidiaries                        8     - 
Total fees payable to Company's auditors                 66    57 
 
 

6. Employees

 

Number of employees

 

The average monthly number of employees including Directors during the year was:

 
                          2018    2017 
Group                     Number  Number 
Production                25      25 
Administration            25      25 
Sales and Technical       62      61 
Total average headcount   112     111 
                          2018    2017 
Company                   Number  Number 
Production                25      25 
Administration            18      18 
Sales and Technical       34      40 
Total average headcount   77      83 
 
 

In addition to employees, Anpario also engages various sales and technical specialists on a consultancy basis in several countries.

 

Employment costs

 
                              2018   2017 
Group                         GBP000   GBP000 
Wages and salaries            4,808  5,412 
Social security costs         590    530 
Other pension costs           190    145 
Share-based payment charges   118    259 
Total employment costs        5,706  6,346 
                              2018   2017 
Company                       GBP000   GBP000 
Wages and salaries            3,253  4,096 
Social security costs         388    337 
Other pension costs           152    132 
Share-based payment charges   118    259 
Total employment costs        3,911  4,824 
 
 

7. Finance income

 
                                                  2018  2017 
                                                  GBP000  GBP000 
Interest receivable on short-term bank deposits   87    42 
Total finance income                              87    42 
 
 

8. Earnings per share

 
                                                       2018    2017 
Weighted average number of shares in issue (000s)      20,482  20,361 
Adjusted for effects of dilutive                       1,121   709 
potential Ordinary shares (000s) 
Weighted average number for diluted                    21,603  21,070 
earnings per share (000's) 
Profit attributable to owners of the Parent (GBP000's)   4,000   2,985 
Basic earnings per share                               19.53p  14.66p 
Diluted earnings per share                             18.52p  14.17p 
 
 
                                                       2018    2017 
                                                       GBP000    GBP000 
Adjusted profit attributable to owners of the Parent 
Profit attributable to owners of the Parent            4,000   2,985 
Exceptional items (net of tax)                         -       544 
Prior year tax adjustments                             (129)   (121) 
Adjusted profit attributable to owners of the Parent   3,871   3,408 
Adjusted earnings per share                            18.90p  16.74p 
Diluted adjusted earnings per share                    17.92p  16.17p 
 
 

9. Dividend payable

 
                                                 2018   2017 
                                                 GBP000   GBP000 
2016 final dividend paid: 5.5p per 23p share     -      1,152 
2017 interim dividend paid: 2.0p per 23p share   -      428 
2017 final dividend paid: 6.0p per 23p share     965    - 
2018 interim dividend paid: 2.5p per 23p share   467    - 
                                                 1,432  1,580 
 
 

A final dividend in respect of the year ended 31 December 2018 of 5.0p per share, amounting to a total dividend of GBP1.5m, is to be proposed at the Annual General Meeting on 27 June 2019. These financial statements do not reflect this dividend payable.

 

10. Income tax expense

 
                                                           Group 
                                                           2018  2017 
Income tax expense charged to the Income Statement         GBP000  GBP000 
Current tax 
Current tax on profits for the year                        732   633 
Adjustment for prior years                                 (99)  (137) 
Total current tax                                          633   496 
Deferred tax 
Origination and reversal of temporary differences          (50)  (94) 
Adjustment for prior years                                 (31)  16 
Total deferred tax (note 18)                               (81)  (78) 
Total income tax expense charged to the income statement   552   418 
 
 
                                                    Group 
                                                    2018  2017 
Income tax expense credited directly to equity      GBP000  GBP000 
Current tax 
Current tax on profits for the year                 (15)  (4) 
Total current tax                                   (15)  (4) 
Deferred tax 
Origination and reversal of temporary differences   38    (68) 
Adjustment for prior years                          -     - 
Total deferred tax (note 18)                        38    (68) 
Total income tax expense charged/(credited)         23    (72) 
directly to equity 
 
 

Adjustments in respect of prior years represent the benefits from enhanced research and development tax credits.

 

The tax on the Company's profit before tax differs from the theoretical amount that would arise using the standard domestic tax rate applicable to profits of the Company as follows:

 
                                                    2018   2017 
Factors affecting the charge for the year           GBP000   GBP000 
Profit before tax                                   4,552  3,403 
Tax at the UK domestic rate of 19% (2017: 19.25%)   865    655 
Tax effects of: 
Non-deductible expenses                             33     104 
Losses not recognised for deferred tax              232    182 
Research and development tax credits                (363)  (332) 
Prior year tax adjustments                          (129)  (121) 
Tax credit recognised directly in equity            (23)   3 
Other tax adjustments                               (63)   (73) 
Income tax expense                                  552    418 
 
 

Corporation tax is calculated at 19% (2017: 19.25%) of the estimated assessable profit for the year.

 

Further reductions to the UK tax rate were announced as part of the Finance Act 2016. The tax rate reduced to 19.00% from 1 April 2017 and will further reduce to 17.00% from 1 April 2020. These changes have been enacted by the balance sheet date and considered when measuring the deferred tax balances.

 

11. Intangible assets

 
                         Goodwill       Brands  Customerrelationships  Patents,trademarksandregistrations  Developmentcosts  SoftwareandLicenses  Total 
Group                    GBP000           GBP000    GBP000                   GBP000                                GBP000              GBP000                 GBP000 
Cost 
As at 1 January 2017     5,490          2,768   686                    1,050                               2,198             521                  12,713 
Additions                470            43      100                    307                                 249               68                   1,237 
Disposal                 -              (43)    -                      (10)                                -                 -                    (53) 
Foreign exchange         -              -       -                      (1)                                 -                 -                    (1) 
As at 31 December 2017   5,960          2,768   786                    1,346                               2,447             589                  13,896 
Reclassifications        -              664     -                      -                                   (664)             -                    - 
Additions                -              -       -                      291                                 716               99                   1,106 
Foreign exchange         -              -       -                      (1)                                 -                 -                    (1) 
As at 31 December 2018   5,960          3,432   786                    1,636                               2,499             688                  15,001 
Accumulated amortisation/impairment 
As at 1 January 2017     -              227     365                    232                                 1,661             96                   2,581 
Charge for the year      -              83      78                     166                                 97                74                   498 
Disposal                 -              -       -                      (3)                                 -                 -                    (3) 
As at 31 December 2017   -              310     443                    395                                 1,758             170                  3,076 
Charge for the year      -              84      79                     240                                 65                84                   552 
As at 31 December 2018   -              394     522                    635                                 1,823             254                  3,628 
Net book value 
As at 31 December 2018   5,960          3,038   264                    1,001                               676               434                  11,373 
As at 31 December 2017   5,960          2,458   343                    951                                 689               419                  10,820 
As at 1 January 2017     5,490          2,541   321                    818                                 537               425                  10,132 
 
 

The charge above includes GBPnil (2016: GBP571,000) in respect of exceptional impairment of development expenditure.

 

The reclassification to Brands represents newly generated Product Brands from Development projects.

 
                         Goodwill       Brands  Customerrelationships  Patents,trademarksandregistrations  Developmentcosts  SoftwareandLicenses  Total 
Company                  GBP000           GBP000    GBP000                   GBP000                                GBP000              GBP000                 GBP000 
Cost 
As at 1 January 2017     5,490          2,679   559                    1,041                               2,198             521                  12,488 
Additions                -              -       -                      305                                 249               68                   622 
Disposal                 -              -       -                      (10)                                -                 -                    (10) 
As at 31 December 2017   5,490          2,679   559                    1,336                               2,447             589                  13,100 
Reclassifications        -              664     -                      -                                   (664)             -                    - 
Additions                -              -       -                      289                                 716               99                   1,104 
As at 31 December 2018   5,490          3,343   559                    1,625                               2,499             688                  14,204 
Accumulated amortisation/impairment 
As at 1 January 2017     -              138     238                    232                                 1,661             96                   2,365 
Charge for the year      -              83      69                     166                                 97                74                   489 
Disposal                 -              -       -                      (3)                                 -                 -                    (3) 
As at 31 December 2017   -              221     307                    395                                 1,758             170                  2,851 
Charge for the year      -              84      69                     240                                 65                84                   542 
As at 31 December 2018   -              305     376                    635                                 1,823             254                  3,393 
Net book value 
As at 31 December 2018   5,490          3,038   183                    990                                 676               434                  10,811 
As at 31 December 2017   5,490          2,458   252                    941                                 689               419                  10,249 
As at 1 January 2017     5,490          2,541   321                    809                                 537               425                  10,123 
 
 

The reclassification to Brands represents newly generated Product Brands from Development projects.

 

Goodwill is allocated to the Group's cash-generating units ("CGU's") identified according to trading brand. The recoverable amount of a CGU is determined based on value-in-use calculations.

 

These calculations use pre-tax cash flow projections based on financial budgets approved by management covering a five-year period. Cash flows beyond a five-year period are extrapolated using estimated growth rates of 2.5% per annum (2017: 2.5%).

 

The discount rate used of 12% (2017: 12%) is pre-tax and reflects specific risks relating to the operating segments.

 

Based on the calculations of the recoverable amount of each CGU, no impairment to goodwill was identified.

 

The Group has conducted a sensitivity analysis on the impairment test of each CGU and the group of units carrying value. A cut in the annual growth rate of 10.5 percentage points to a negative growth of minus 8 percentage points would cause the carrying value of goodwill to equal its recoverable amount.

 

Goodwill is allocated as follows:

 
Goodwill                                           GBP000 
Acquisition of Kiotechagil operations              3,552 
Acquisition of Optivite operations                 592 
Acquisition of Meriden operations                  1,346 
Acquisition of Cobbett business                    470 
As at 31 December 2017 and 31 December 2018        5,960 
 
 

Brands relate to the fair value of the Optivite brands acquired in the year ended 31 December 2009 and Meriden brands acquired in the year ended 31 December 2012. These are deemed to have between 20 years and an indefinite useful life due to the inherent intellectual property contained in the products, the longevity of the product lives and global market opportunities. Brands with indefinite useful lives are assessed for impairment with goodwill in the annual impairment review as described above.

 

Amortisation/Impairment of intangible assets is included in administrative expenses, totalling GBP552,000 (2017: GBP498,000) for the Group and GBP542,000 (2017: GBP489,000) for the Company.

 

12. Property, plant and equipment

 
                           Land andbuildings  Plant andmachinery  Fixtures,fittingsandequipment  Assets                      Total 
                                                                                                 inthe courseofconstruction 
Group                      GBP000               GBP000                GBP000                           GBP000                        GBP000 
Cost 
As at 1 January 2017       2,180              1,904               545                            101                         4,730 
Transfer of assets         -                  178                 -                              (178)                       - 
in construction 
Additions                  1                  39                  34                             77                          151 
Disposals                  -                  (29)                (148)                          -                           (177) 
Foreign exchange           -                  (4)                 (1)                                                        (5) 
As at 31 December 2017     2,181              2,088               430                            -                           4,699 
Additions                  -                  82                  59                             554                         695 
Disposals                  -                  (33)                (1)                            -                           (34) 
As at 31 December 2018     2,181              2,137               488                            554                         5,360 
Accumulated depreciation 
As at 1 January 2017       276                583                 332                            -                           1,191 
Charge for the year        32                 214                 81                             -                           327 
Disposals                  -                  (22)                (142)                          -                           (164) 
Reclassification           -                  3                   (3)                            -                           - 
Foreign exchange           -                  (2)                 -                              -                           (2) 
As at 31 December 2017     308                776                 268                            -                           1,352 
Charge for the year        32                 217                 70                             -                           319 
Disposals                  -                  (20)                (1)                            -                           (21) 
As at 31 December 2018     340                973                 337                            -                           1,650 
Net book value 
As at 31 December 2018     1,841              1,164               151                            554                         3,710 
As at 31 December 2017     1,873              1,312               162                            -                           3,347 
As at 1 January 2017       1,904              1,321               213                            101                         3,539 
 
 
                          Land andbuildings  Plant andmachinery  Fixtures,fittingsandequipment  Assets                      Total 
                                                                                                inthe courseofconstruction 
Company                   GBP000               GBP000                GBP000                           GBP000                        GBP000 
Cost 
As at 1 January 2017      2,180              1,846               514                            101                         4,641 
Additions                 1                  39                  29                             77                          146 
Transfer of assets        -                  178                 -                              (178)                       - 
in construction 
Disposals                 -                  (29)                (148)                          -                           (177) 
As at 31 December 2017    2,181              2,034               395                            -                           4,610 
Additions                 -                  82                  56                             554                         692 
As at 31 December 2018    2,181              2,116               451                            554                         5,302 
Accumulated 
depreciation/impairment 
As at 1 January 2017      276                562                 329                            -                           1,167 
Charge for the year       32                 201                 74                             -                           307 
Disposals                 -                  (22)                (142)                          -                           (164) 
As at 31 December 2017    308                741                 261                            -                           1,310 
Charge for the year       32                 210                 61                             -                           303 
As at 31 December 2018    340                951                 322                            -                           1,613 
Net book value 
As at 31 December 2018    1,841              1,165               129                            554                         3,689 
As at 31 December 2017    1,873              1,293               134                            -                           3,300 
As at 1 January 2017      1,904              1,284               185                            101                         3,474 
 
 

Held within land and buildings is an amount of GBP700,000 (2016: GBP700,000) in respect of non-depreciable land.

 

13. Investment in subsidiaries

 
Company                                         Unlisted investments 
                                                GBP000 
Cost 
As at 1 January 2017                            7,181 
Investment in Subsidiaries                      828 
As at 31 December 2017 and 31 December 2018     8,009 
Provisions for diminution in value 
As at 1 January 2017, 31 December               2,616 
2017 and 31 December 2018 
Net book value 
As at 31 December 2017 and 31 December 2018     5,393 
As at 1 January 2017                            4,565 
 
 

The increase in investment in 2017 relates partly to the acquisition of the business of Cobbett Pty Ltd and the remainder in new subsidiaries PT. Anpario Biotech Indonesia and Anpario (Thailand) Ltd.

 

Full list of investments

 

The Group holds share capital in the following Companies which are accounted for as Subsidiaries.

 
Company           Country           Principalactivity  Percentageheld  Shares held Class 
                  ofregistrationor 
                  incorporation 
Directly held 
Anpario           China             Technology         100             Ordinary 
(Shanghai) 
Biotech Co. 
, Ltd. 
Room 703, No.                       Services 
777 Zhao 
Jia Bang 
Road, 
Shanghai, 
China 
Anpario Inc       US                Technology         100             Ordinary 
104 South                           Services 
Main 
Street, 
Greenville, 
SC 29601, 
United States 
of America 
Anpario Pty       Australia         Technology         100             Ordinary 
Ltd 
Level 17, 383                       Services 
Kent Street, 
Sydney, NSW, 
2000 
Anpario Saúde     Brazil            Technology         100             Ordinary 
e Nutrição 
Animal Ltda 
Rua                                 Services 
Brigadeiro 
Henrique 
Fontenelle, 
745 - room 4, 
Parque São 
Domingos, 
São 
Paulo, 
05125-000, 
Brazil 
Anpario           Thailand          Technology         100             Ordinary 
(Thailand) 
Ltd 
65/152                              Services 
Chamnan 
Phenjati 
Building 
Floor 18, 
Rama 
9 
Road, Huaykwang 
Sub-district, 
Huaykwang 
District, 
Bangkok 10310 
PT. Anpario       Indonesia         Technology         100             Ordinary 
Biotech 
Indonesia 
Gedung 18                           Services 
Office 
Park Iantai 
Mezz- unit 
F2, 
Jl. , TB 
Simatupang 
Kav. 18, 
Jakarta 12520 
Anpario           Malaysia          Technology         100             Ordinary 
Malaysia 
Sdn. Bhd. 
Real                                Services 
Time 
Corporate 
Services Sdn. 
Bhd. Unit 
C-12-4, 
Level 12, 
Block C, 
Megan 
Avenue 
II, 12 Jalan 
Yap Kwan 
Seng, 
50450 
Kuala Lumpur 
Anpario           Mexico            Technology         100             Ordinary 
Latinoamerica 
SA de CV 
Av.                                 Services 
Technologico 
Sur # 134 
cas 
4, Colonia 
Moderna, 
CP 
76030, 
Queretaro, 
Mexico 
 
 

The following Companies are all directly held, with 100% holding of Ordinary shares, registered in England and Wales and dormant. The registered address for all of these Companies is Unit 5 Manton Wood Enterprise Park, Worksop, Nottinghamshire, S80 2RS, United Kingdom.

 

Anpario UK LimitedMeriden Animal Health LimitedOrego-Stim LimitedOptivite LimitedOptivite International LimitedAquatice LimitedAgil LimitedKiotechagil LimitedKiotech Limited

 

Indirectly held

 
Meriden (Shanghai) Animal       China         Technology  100  Ordinary 
Health Co. , Ltd. 
Room 703, No. 777 Zhao                        Services 
Jia Bang Road, 
Shanghai, China 
Optivite Animal Nutrition       India         Technology  100  Ordinary 
Private Limited 
1103-04 Windsor Apartment,                    Services 
T-28, Shastri 
Apartment, Andheri - West 
Mumbai Mumbai City 
MH 400053, India 
Optivite Latinoamericana        Mexico        Technology  100  Ordinary 
SA de CV 
20 Boulevard de la Industria,                 Services 
Cuautitlan-Izcalli, 
Mexico, 54716, Mexico 
Optivite SA (Proprietary)       South Africa  Technology  100  Ordinary 
Limited 
PO Box 578, Cape Town                         Services 
8000, South Africa 
 
 

The Group has no associates or joint-ventures.

 

14. Inventories

 
                                      Group         Company 
                                      2018   2017   2018   2017 
                                      GBP000   GBP000   GBP000   GBP000 
Raw materials and consumables         1,933  1,689  1,933  1,689 
Finished goods and goods for resale   2,098  1,399  525    339 
Total inventories                     4,031  3,088  2,458  2,028 
 
 

The cost of inventories recognised as expense and included in 'cost of sales' amounted to GBP11,510,000 (2017: GBP11,693,000) for the Group and GBP11,686,000 (2017: GBP11,882,000) for the Company.

 

15. Trade and other receivables

 
                                           Group         Company 
                                           2018   2017   2018    2017 
                                           GBP000   GBP000   GBP000    GBP000 
Trade receivables                          4,871  5,282  3,757   4,605 
Less: provision for impairment             (247)  (82)   (37)    (82) 
of trade receivables 
Trade receivables - net                    4,624  5,200  3,720   4,523 
Receivables from Subsidiary undertakings   -      -      7,277   5,108 
Other receivables                          52     75     28      8 
Taxes                                      276    244    86      86 
Prepayments and accrued income             376    201    360     197 
Total trade and other receivables          5,328  5,720  11,471  9,922 
 
 

The other classes within trade and other receivables do not contain impaired assets.

 

The ageing analysis of net trade receivables is as follows:

 
                          Group         Company 
                          2018   2017   2018   2017 
                          GBP000   GBP000   GBP000   GBP000 
Up to 3 months            4,391  4,639  3,534  4,007 
3 to 6 months             232    518    185    516 
Over 6 months             1      43     1      - 
Trade receivables - net   4,624  5,200  3,720  4,523 
 
 

As at 31 December 2018 trade receivables of GBP670,000 (2017: GBP566,000) for the Group and GBP525,000 (2017: GBP456,000) for the Company were past due but not impaired. These relate to longstanding customers where there is no recent history of default. The ageing analysis of these receivables is as follows:

 
                 Group       Company 
                 2018  2017  2018  2017 
                 GBP000  GBP000  GBP000  GBP000 
Up to 3 months   670   655   525   456 
3 to 6 months    -     -     -     - 
Over 6 months    -     43    -     - 
                 670   698   525   456 
 
 

As at 31 December 2018 trade receivables of GBP247,000 (2017: GBP82,000) for the Group and GBP37,000 (2017: GBP82,000) for the Company were impaired and fully provided for. The individually impaired receivables mainly related to historic debt for which recovery is still being sought. The Group mitigates its exposure to credit risk by extensive use of credit insurance and letters of credit to remit amounts due. The ageing of these trade receivables is as follows:

 
                 Group       Company 
                 2018  2017  2018  2017 
                 GBP000  GBP000  GBP000  GBP000 
Up to 3 months   33    -     24    - 
3 to 6 months    78    -     -     - 
Over 6 months    136   82    13    82 
                 247   82    37    82 
 
 

Movement on the Group provision for impairment of trade receivables as follows:

 
                                       Group        Company 
                                       2018  2017   2018  2017 
                                       GBP000  GBP000   GBP000  GBP000 
As at 1 January                        82    282    82    282 
Provisions for receivables created     234   14     24    14 
Amounts written off as unrecoverable   (69)  (109)  (69)  (109) 
Amounts recovered during the year      -     (105)  -     (105) 
As at 31 December                      247   82     37    82 
 
 

The carrying amounts of net trade and other receivables are denominated in the following currencies:

 
                    Group         Company 
                    2018   2017   2018   2017 
                    GBP000   GBP000   GBP000   GBP000 
Pounds sterling     1,598  1,679  1,598  1,679 
Euros               603    585    603    585 
US dollars          1,796  2,521  1,519  2,259 
Other currencies    627    415    -      - 
As at 31 December   4,624  5,200  3,720  4,523 
 
 

16. Cash and cash equivalents

 

Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash and short-term deposits held by Group companies. The carrying amount of these assets approximates to their fair value.

 

17. Trade and other payables

 
                                         Group         Company 
                                         2018   2017   2018   2017 
                                         GBP000   GBP000   GBP000   GBP000 
Trade payables                           2,374  2,601  2,296  2,516 
Amounts due to subsidiary undertakings   -      -      4,075  4,075 
Taxes and social security costs          119    129    103    103 
Other payables                           144    312    54     202 
Accruals and deferred income             789    2,306  497    1,833 
Total trade and other payables           3,426  5,348  7,025  8,729 
 
 

Included within 'Other payables' above is acquisition related contingent consideration, as outlined below. During the year a payment of GBP132,000 was made to the vendors of the business of Cobbett Pty Ltd, in respect of the contingent consideration arising on acquisition. The liability balance of GBP20,000, net of the payment made, has been released as it was not due per the terms of the sale agreement.

 
                                    Group       Company 
                                    2018  2017  2018  2017 
                                    GBP000  GBP000  GBP000  GBP000 
Arising on the acquisition of the   -     152   -     152 
business of Cobbett Pty Ltd 
Total contingent consideration      -     152   -     152 
 
 

18. Deferred income tax

 
                                                        2018 2017 
Group                                                   GBP000 GBP000 
As at 1 January                                         597  728 
Income statement credit (note 10)                       (81) (78) 
Deferred tax charged/(credited) directly to equity      38   (68) 
Foreign exchange                                        (14) 15 
As at 31 December                                       540  597 
 
 

Deferred tax liabilities/(assets)

 
                         Acceleratedtaxallowances  Fair valuegains  Cashflowhedge  Losses  Other timingdifferences  Total 
                         GBP000                      GBP000             GBP000           GBP000    GBP000                     GBP000 
As at 1 January 2017     613                       401              -              (170)   (116)                    728 
Income                   (58)                      60               -              (17)    (63)                     (78) 
statement 
(credited)/charged 
(note 10) 
Deferred                 -                         -                28             -       (96)                     (68) 
tax charged/(credited) 
directly to equity 
Foreign exchange         -                         -                -              15      -                        15 
As at 31 December 2017   555                       461              28             (172)   (275)                    597 
Income statement         78                        87               -              (103)   (143)                    (81) 
credit (note 10) 
Deferred tax charged     -                         -                (27)           -       66                       39 
directly to equity 
Foreign exchange         -                         -                -              (14)    -                        (14) 
As at 31 December 2018   633                       548              1              (289)   (352)                    541 
Classified as: 
Deferred income                                                                                                     (641) 
tax asset 
Deferred income                                                                                                     1,182 
tax liability 
 
 

Included in 'Other timing differences' above is GBP253,000 (2017: GBP112,000) that relates to the tax impact of the elimination of intercompany unrealised profit held in inventory.

 

Further reductions to the UK tax rate were announced as part of the Finance Act 2016. The tax rate reduced to 19% from 1 April 2017 and will further reduce to 17% from 1 April 2020. These changes have been enacted by the balance sheet date and considered when measuring the deferred tax balances.

 

A deferred tax asset has been recognised for US tax losses carried forward on the grounds that sufficient future taxable profits are forecast to be realised. No deferred tax asset is recognised in respect of losses incurred in other overseas subsidiaries, due to the uncertainty surrounding the timing of the utilisation of those losses.

 
                                                        2018  2017 
Company                                                 GBP000  GBP000 
As at 1 January                                         880   964 
Income statement credit                                 164   (16) 
Deferred tax (credited)/charged directly to equity      39    (68) 
As at 31 December                                       1,083 880 
 
 

Deferred tax liabilities/(assets)

 
                       Acceleratedtaxallowances  Fair valuegains  Cashflowhedge  Losses  Other timingdifferences  Total 
                       GBP000                      GBP000             GBP000           GBP000    GBP000                     GBP000 
As at 1 January 2017   613                       401              -              -       (50)                     964 
Income statement       (58)                      60               -              -       (18)                     (16) 
(credit)/charge 
Deferred               -                         -                28             -       (96)                     (68) 
tax 
charged/(credited) 
directly to equity 
As at 31 December      555                       461              28             -       (164)                    880 
2017 
Income statement       78                        87               -              -       (1)                      164 
charge/(credit) 
Deferred               -                         -                (27)           -       66                       39 
tax charged/credited 
directly to equity 
As at 31 December      633                       548              1              -       (99)                     1,083 
2018 
Classified as: 
Deferred income                                                                                                   (99) 
tax asset 
Deferred income                                                                                                   1,182 
tax liability 
 
 

19. Capital commitments

 

The Group had authorised capital commitments as at 31 December 2018 as follows:

 
                                2018  2017 
                                GBP000  GBP000 
Property, plant and equipment   373   - 
Total capital commitments       373   - 
 
 

20. Financial commitments

 

At 31 December 2018 the Group had future aggregate minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases as follows:

 
                              2018  2017 
                              GBP000  GBP000 
Less than one year            40    63 
Between one and five years    13    63 
Greater than five years       -     - 
Total financial commitments   53    126 
 
 

21. Called up share capital

 
                                                            2018    2017 
                                                            GBP000    GBP000 
Authorised 
86,956,521 Ordinary shares of 23p each                      20,000  20,000 
1,859,672 'A' Shares of 99p each                            1,841   1,841 
                                                            21,841  21,841 
Allotted, called up and fully paid 
23,261,362 (2017: 23,006,276) Ordinary shares of 23p each   5,350   5,291 
Options exercised Ordinary shares of 23p each               10      59 
23,303,215 (2017: 23,261,362) Ordinary shares of 23p each   5,360   5,350 
 
 

During the year 41,853 (2017: 255,086) Ordinary shares of 23 pence each were issued pursuant to employee share plans.

 

22. Retained earnings

 
                         Group    Company 
                         GBP000     GBP000 
As at 1 January 2017     18,843   18,560 
Profit for the year      2,985    3,988 
Dividends                (1,580)  (1,580) 
As at 31 December 2017   20,248   20,968 
Profit for the year      4,000    5,097 
Dividends                (1,432)  (1,432) 
As at 31 December 2018   22,816   24,633 
 
 

23. Other reserves

 

Other reserves comprise:

 
                              Group             Company 
                              2018     2017     2018     2017 
                              GBP000     GBP000     GBP000     GBP000 
Treasury shares               (185)    (185)    (185)    (185) 
Joint Share Ownership Plan    (7,210)  (7,210)  (7,210)  (7,210) 
Merger reserve                228      228      228      228 
Unrealised reserve            -        -        2,021    2,021 
Share-based payment reserve   1,857    1,713    1,857    1,713 
Cash flow hedge               (8)      176      (8)      176 
Translation reserve           (131)    (128)    -        - 
                              (5,449)  (5,406)  (3,297)  (3,257) 
 
 

24. Share-based payments

 

Movements in the number of share options outstanding are as follows:

 
                               Weightedaverageexerciseprice  Shares 2018  Weightedaverageexerciseprice  Shares 2017 
                               (p)                           000          (p)                           000 
Outstanding at 1 January       238                           749          227                           793 
Granted during the year        376                           95           337                           73 
Lapsed during the year         343                           (9)          232                           (87) 
Exercised during the year      252                           (42)         205                           (30) 
Outstanding at 31 December     253                           793          238                           749 
Exercisable at 31 December                                   419                                        323 
 
 

Share options outstanding at the end of the year have the following expiry dates and weighted average exercise prices:

 
         Weightedaverageexerciseprice  Shares 2018  Weightedaverageexerciseprice  Shares 2017 
         (p)                           000          (p)                           000 
2020     224                           78           224                           78 
2021     334                           43           334                           45 
2022     -                             -            89                            3 
2023     159                           160          159                           160 
2024     244                           144          244                           160 
2025     287                           115          285                           135 
2026     238                           140          238                           140 
2027     350                           69           343                           28 
2028     402                           44           -                             - 
                                       793                                        749 
 
 

Anpario have applied a limit to the total number of new shares which may be issued under awards under the CSOP, SAYE, JSOP and under any other incentive plans which might involve the issue of new shares. That limit will be the total number of new shares over which future awards may be made, when added to the total number of shares issued and issuable under awards granted on 16 September 2016 and any awards which are outstanding as at that date shall not exceed 16.3% of the total of the number of shares in issue from time to time.

 

During the year options totalling 94,500 (2017: 72,754) were awarded under a number of incentive schemes listed in the schedule below and 41,853 (2017: 30,068) options were exercised.

 

The fair value of services received in return for share options granted and the shares which have been issued into the joint beneficial ownership of the participating Executive Directors and the Trustee of The Anpario plc Employees' Share Trust is calculated based on appropriate valuation models.

 

The expense is apportioned over the vesting period and is based on the number of financial instruments which are expected to vest and the fair value of those financial instruments at the date of the grant. The charge for the year in respect of share options granted and associated expenses amounts to GBP259,000 (2016: GBP210,000) of which GBP70,000 (2016: GBP10,000) is related to professional fees that have been expensed during the year.

 

The weighted average fair value of options granted during the year was determined based on the following assumptions using the Black-Scholes pricing model.

 
Plan                               Unapproved  CSOP    Unapproved  CSOP 
Grant date                         04-Aug      02-Jan  02-Jan      05-Apr 
Number of options granted (000)    50          8       10          7 
Grant price (p)                    352.5       397.5   397.5       428.0 
Exercise price (p)                 352.5       397.5   397.5       428.0 
Carrying cost (per annum)          -           -       -           - 
Vesting period (years)             3           3       5           3 
Option expiry (years)              10          10      10          10 
Expected volatility                20%         20%     20%         20% 
of the share price 
Dividends expected on the shares   1.99%       1.76%   1.76%       1.64% 
Risk-free rate                     0.27%       0.59%   0.82%       0.90% 
Fair value (p)                     38.6        46.3    57.6        52.3 
 
 

25. Exceptional Items

 
                                  2018  2017 
                                  GBP000  GBP000 
Acquisition costs                 -     112 
Closure and restructuring costs   -     515 
                                  -     627 
 
 

The implementation of strategic growth initiatives, including putting in place a new senior management structure and new direct investment in operations in key target markets, has resulted in non-recurring and exceptional costs of GBPnil (2017: GBP627,000). In view of the nature and size of these items, they have not been included in the adjusted profit measures and neither have legal costs incurred in successful and abortive acquisitions.

 

26. Related party transactions

 

Group and Company

 

The following transactions were carried out with related parties:

 

P A Lawrence, Chairman of ECO Animal Health Group plc, is a Non-Executive Director of the Company and GBP16,667 (2017: GBP40,000) was paid to ECO Animal Health Group plc in respect of his services and expenses. During the year, this arrangement was changed and P A Lawrence is now remunerated through salary payments from Anpario plc.

 

There was GBPnil due to Eco Animal Health Group plc at 31 December 2018 (2017: GBP4,000).

 

Company

 

The following transactions were carried out with related parties:

 
                                              2018   2017 
                                              GBP000   GBP000 
Sales of goods: 
Subsidiaries                                  4,944  4,184 
Purchase of services: 
Related parties                               20     48 
Year-end balances with related parties: 
                                              2018   2017 
                                              GBP000   GBP000 
Receivables from related parties (note 15): 
Subsidiaries                                  7,277  5,108 
Payables to related parties (note 17): 
Subsidiaries                                  4,075  4,075 
Related parties                               -      4 
 
 

27. Derivative financial instruments

 

The Group's finance function is responsible for managing financial risks, including currency risk. The Group seeks to minimise the effects of these risks using various methods, including entering into currency forward and option contracts. Where applicable these are designated as cash flow hedges against highly probable forecast foreign currency sales. If cash flow hedge accounting is not applicable then the value is taken through profit or loss.

 

Included within other comprehensive income is the movement in the cash flow hedge reserve as outlined below.

 
                                                 2018   2017 
Cashflow hedge movements (net of deferred tax)   GBP000   GBP000 
Change in value of cash flow hedges              (211)  190 
Deferred tax liability                           27     (28) 
                                                 (184)  162 
 
 

The fair value of the cash flow hedges, along with other forward contracts held at fair value through profit or loss, are financial assets or liabilities as outlined below.

 
                                                        2018  2017 
                                                        GBP000  GBP000 
Financial assets 
Cash flow hedges                                        1     149 
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss   5     71 
                                                        6     220 
Financial liabilities 
Cash flow hedges                                        11    - 
                                                        11    - 
 
 

The financial instruments in place are to mitigate the risks associated with future US Dollar sales receipts. The details of the notional amounts, hedged rate and spot rate at 31 December 2018 are outlined below.

 
                                                        2018    2017 
Notional amount (US Dollars 000's)                      2,400   3,600 
Weighted average hedged rate of financial instruments   1.3050  1.2560 
Spot rate at 31 December                                1.2760  1.3503 
 
 

Anpario plc

 

Richard Edwards, CEO +44(0) 777 6417 129Karen Prior, FD +44(0) 1909 537380

 

Peel Hunt LLP +44 (0)20 7418 8900

 

Adrian TrimmingsGeorge Sellar

 
 
 

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190305006053/en/

 
This information is provided by Business Wire 
 
 

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

March 06, 2019 02:00 ET (07:00 GMT)

1 Year Anpario Chart

1 Year Anpario Chart

1 Month Anpario Chart

1 Month Anpario Chart

Your Recent History

Delayed Upgrade Clock