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HFG Hilton Food Group Plc

910.00
14.00 (1.56%)
18 Apr 2024 - Closed
Delayed by 15 minutes
Share Name Share Symbol Market Type Share ISIN Share Description
Hilton Food Group Plc LSE:HFG London Ordinary Share GB00B1V9NW54 ORD 10P
  Price Change % Change Share Price Bid Price Offer Price High Price Low Price Open Price Shares Traded Last Trade
  14.00 1.56% 910.00 903.00 909.00 917.00 880.00 880.00 91,617 16:35:06
Industry Sector Turnover Profit EPS - Basic PE Ratio Market Cap
Meats And Meat Products-whsl 3.99B 36.38M 0.4060 22.24 809.11M

Hilton Food Group PLC Interim Results (2182Z)

17/09/2020 7:00am

UK Regulatory


Hilton Food (LSE:HFG)
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RNS Number : 2182Z

Hilton Food Group PLC

17 September 2020

17 September 2020

Hilton Food Group plc

Interim results for the 28 weeks to 12 July 2020

Strong execution and growth during challenging circumstances

Hilton Food Group plc, the leading specialist international food packing business, is pleased to announce its interim results for the 28 weeks to 12 July 2020.

Financial and strategic highlights

 
                                  2020          2019              Change 
                                28 weeks      28 weeks     Reported   Constant 
                                to 12 July    to 14 July               currency 
                                   2020          2019 
 
 Volume (1) (tonnes)               237,340       193,608      22.6% 
 Revenue                       GBP1,264.2m     GBP912.1m      38.6%       40.0% 
 
 Adjusted results (2) 
 Adjusted operating profit        GBP31.5m      GBP26.7m      17.9%       19.6% 
 Adjusted profit before tax       GBP28.1m      GBP24.5m      14.6%       16.1% 
 Adjusted basic earnings 
  per share                          25.9p         22.8p      13.6%       15.4% 
 
 IFRS results 
 Operating profit                 GBP31.3m      GBP26.2m      19.6% 
 Profit before tax                GBP24.0m      GBP19.9m      21.0% 
 Basic earnings per share            22.3p         17.4p      28.2% 
 Cash flows from operating        GBP35.4m       GBP8.1m 
  activities 
 Net bank debt (3)               GBP131.7m      GBP97.3m 
 Interim dividend                     7.0p          6.0p      16.7% 
 
 

Notes

 
 1.   Volume includes 50% share of the Australian, Portuguese and Dutch 
       joint venture activities 
 2.   Adjusted results represent the IFRS results before deduction of acquisition 
       intangibles amortisation GBP1.3m (2019: GBP1.3m) and IFRS 16 lease 
       adjustments as detailed in the Alternative performance measures note 
       14. Unless otherwise stated financial metrics in the Financial and 
       strategic highlights, Review of operations and Financial review refer 
       to the adjusted results 
 3.   Net bank debt represents borrowings less cash and cash equivalents 
       and other financial asset 
 
 
 --   Higher demand due to increased consumption at home due to Covid-19 
 --   Strong volume and revenue growth in Australia and UK alongside higher 
       raw material prices 
 --   Supply to customers resilient with all facilities remaining fully 
       operational, although with increased Covid mitigation costs 
 --   Operating profit up 19.6%* to GBP31.5m and basic earnings per share 
       up 15.4%* to 25.9p 
 --   Agreement with Delhaize for a new facility in Belgium due to open 
       in October 2020 
 --   Australia joint venture transition period concluded with purchase 
       of assets relating to the joint venture 
 --   Interim dividend increased from 6.0p to 7.0p, an increase of 16.7% 
 

* On a constant currency basis

Commenting on the results, Executive Chairman Robert Watson OBE, said:

"I am extremely proud of the commitment and resilience shown by the entire Hilton team to step up and adapt quickly to the challenges caused by Covid-19 in order to safeguard our people, keep our facilities open and support our customers. This response underpinned a strong performance with volume and profit growth demonstrating the robustness and sustainability of our business.

"Hilton continues to invest in new facilities in Belgium and New Zealand which, together with the further development of our fish and vegetarian categories will ensure future growth. As with all businesses there remain uncertainties concerning the full impact of Covid-19 including potential recessionary risks but our wide geographical spread and the fact we serve the food retail sector make us believe we are well placed to meet any future challenges.

"Our financial position remains strong and we continue to explore opportunities to invest and grow the business both domestically and in overseas markets with both new and existing customers. Our full year results are expected to be in line with the Board's expectations."

Enquiries:

 
 Hilton Food Group                         Tel: +44 (0) 1480 
                                            387214 
 Robert Watson OBE , Executive Chairman 
 Philip Heffer, Chief Executive Officer 
 Nigel Majewski, Chief Financial Officer 
 
 
 Citigate Dewe Rogerson   Tel: +44 (0) 207 
                           638 9571 
 Angharad Couch 
 Ellen Wilton 
 

This announcement contains inside information.

Cautionary statement

This interim management report contains forward-looking statements. Such statements are based on current expectations and assumptions and are subject to risk factors and uncertainties which we believe are reasonable. Accordingly Hilton's actual future results may differ materially from the results expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements. We do not undertake to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Review of operations

The Group is presenting its interim results for the 28 week period to 12 July 2020, together with comparative information for the 28 weeks to 14 July 2019. These interim results are prepared in accordance with IAS 34 as adopted by the European Union (EU).

Global pandemic

The Covid-19 outbreak continues to present major challenges across the globe with ongoing uncertainty over its longevity and impact. As part of the global food supply chain we were tasked with keeping our facilities open, protecting our people and supporting our retailer partners. All of our facilities have remained fully operational and without interruption. Lockdown and travel restrictions have resulted in more cooking at home thereby creating higher demand for our products. Hilton's performance has therefore been a continuation of our business growth albeit at an increased level of activity together with specific measures introduced to manage our exposure to the virus. There has been communication with key suppliers to ensure the continued supply of goods and services and also alignment with our customers in our response. We are extremely proud of the commitment and resilience shown by the entire Hilton team to step up and adapt quickly to the challenges caused by Covid-19 in order to safeguard our people, keep our facilities open and support our customers.

The health and wellbeing of our people is paramount and we established all necessary protocols to protect them and minimise contact, prioritising those that are most susceptible to Covid-19 including those with underlying health conditions. Our mitigation actions have included extensive cleaning regimes, hand-sanitising stations and social distancing together with the use of face masks, visors, screens, temperature monitoring and track and trace procedures. We have also invested in air purification units and introduced Covid marshals together with an employee pre-arrival screening questionnaire via our app. Travel by our colleagues is strictly managed and visitors minimised as are all movements within our facilities. Our office-based staff were able to quickly switch to effective remote working from home and are being supported as required including use of virtual meeting software with minimal business disruption. The introduction of the measures outlined above have increased our costs accordingly, partly offset by lower travel costs.

We have not sought or received any governmental assistance or support including no use of furlough in our production facilities. There have been no Covid-related changes to employee pay and conditions and no redundancies. Employees having to isolate due to the virus have remained on full pay. In addition, there have been no commercial changes in trading with our suppliers and customers.

Hilton remains financially strong with significant cash balances and undrawn loan facilities and we continue to operate well within our banking covenants. The Board is satisfied that the Group has adequate headroom under its existing facilities to continue to operate and to maintain its dividend policy.

Performance overview

Hilton's business is based on a total partnership approach with its customers and suppliers forged over many years. We operate production facilities in seven countries across Europe and Australia and also work with a number of joint venture partners. The wide geographical spread of the Group's operations is a significant strength of our business model. Hilton is well placed in the current Covid climate as it almost exclusively serves the retail sector.

Performance in the period saw volume growth of 22.6% attributable to our new Australian facility, UK and increased home consumption driven by Covid. Revenue and profit also increased the latter despite increased Covid-related costs. Operating margin was lower at 13.2p per kg (2019: 13.8p per kg) and the margin % was 2.5% (2019: 2.9%) mainly due to higher Australia unit revenues, more resourcing and also Covid-related costs.

Hilton's results, reported in Sterling, are sensitive to changes in the value of Sterling compared to the range of overseas currencies in which the Group trades. Over the 28 weeks to 12 July 2020 the average exchange rates for these overseas currencies generally weakened slightly against Sterling compared with the corresponding period in 2019 which has the effect of reducing revenues by 1.4%.

Europe

Operating profit of GBP31.3m (2019: GBP27.9m) on turnover of GBP1,036.1m (2019: GBP904.5m)

This operating segment covers the Group's meat, fish and vegetarian businesses and joint ventures in the UK, Holland, Ireland, Sweden, Denmark, Poland and Portugal. Our products are sold in 13 countries across Europe.

Volumes increased by 10.2% largely reflecting higher demand due to increased UK participation with Tesco UK following the increase in retail packed red meat to 100% from mid-2019 and increased home consumption driven by Covid. There was also growth across the region particularly at Dalco, our vegetarian joint venture business, although the impact of Covid on the food service sector has adversely affected our trading business. Turnover increased by 14.9% on a constant currency basis reflecting the higher volumes and also increases in raw material prices. Operating margins were steady at 3.0% (2019: 3.1%).

During the period we began preparing our new Belgium facility which is due to open in October 2020.

Australasia

Operating profit of GBP7.5m (2019: GBP4.7m) on turnover of GBP228.1m (2019: GBP7.6m)

In Australia, the Group has operated a joint venture with Woolworths since 2013 earning service fees based on retail packed meat produced at plants in Bunbury, Western Australia and Melbourne, Victoria. We took full operational control of these plants from July 2018 and additionally opened a new facility in Brisbane, Queensland in July 2019.

Volumes, including our share of the JV, increased by 100.6% during the period driven by the opening of the new Brisbane facility and increased demand. Sales, which excludes the JV activities, increased to GBP228.1m (2019: GBP7.6m) and operating profit increased to GBP7.5m (2019: GBP4.7m) reflecting the higher volumes.

The joint venture transition period concluded during the period with the purchase of the assets, on 30 June 2020, for A$69.3m (GBP36.1m) of the Bunbury, Western Australia and Melbourne, Victoria facilities. Completion of our new meat and fish facility in New Zealand has been delayed due to the Covid travel restrictions and this facility is now expected to open during Q3 2021.

Strategic progress

During the period we reached agreement with Delhaize, a leading retailer in Belgium, to pack all its red meat requirements from a site in Belgium covering beef, pork and lamb which is due to open in October 2020. Delhaize operates approximately 800 stores in Belgium and Luxembourg and this represents a further extension of our working relationship with Ahold Delhaize.

In Australia our working relationship with Woolworths has further evolved with the end of the joint venture transition period and purchase of the JV assets.

Investments in our facilities

Hilton continues to invest in all its facilities maintaining state of the art levels required to service our customers' growth, extend the range of products supplied to those customers and deliver both first class service levels and further increases in production efficiency. This investment ensures we can achieve low unit costs and competitive selling prices at increasingly higher levels of production throughput. Capital expenditure during the period was GBP60.7m (2019: GBP56.8m) which included the purchase of the Australia joint venture assets, investment in the new facility in New Zealand and also further investments across the Group to increase operational efficiency and automation.

Outlook

Hilton continues to invest in new facilities in Belgium and New Zealand which, together with the further development of our fish and vegetarian categories will ensure future growth. As with all businesses, there remain uncertainties concerning the full impact of Covid-19 including potential recessionary risks but our wide geographical spread and the fact we serve the food retail sector make us believe we are well placed to meet any future challenges.

Our financial position remains strong and we continue to explore opportunities to invest and grow the business both domestically and in overseas markets with both new and existing customers. Our full year results are expected to be in line with the Board's expectations.

Financial review

The Board uses adjusted profit before IFRS 16, acquired intangibles amortisation and exceptional items to measure performance and considers this metric better reflects the underlying performance of the business. The adjustment for acquisition intangibles amortisation of GBP1.3m (2019: GBP1.3m) is mainly in connection with the 2017 Seachill acquisition. Unless otherwise stated financial metrics refer to the adjusted results.

Hilton's underlying financial performance was strong. Turnover increased by 38.6% to GBP1,264.2m (2019: GBP912.1m) and by 40.0% on a constant currency basis driven by higher volumes. Further details of turnover and volume growth by segment are detailed in the Review of operations above.

Operating profit for the first 28 weeks of 2020 was GBP31.5m, 17.9% higher than in the previous year (2019: GBP26.7m) and 19.6% higher on a constant currency basis in line with volume growth. The operating profit margin reduced to 2.5% (2019: 2.9%) mainly due to higher Australia unit revenues, more resourcing and also Covid-related costs. IFRS operating profit for the first 28 weeks of 2020 was GBP31.3m (2019: GBP26.2m).

Net finance costs increased to GBP3.5m (2019: GBP2.3m) mainly reflecting higher borrowings relating to capital expenditure. Interest cover was 9 times (2019: 12 times). IFRS net finance costs were GBP7.3m (2019: GBP6.3m).

The taxation charge for the period was GBP6.0m (2019: GBP4.8m) representing an effective underlying tax rate of 21.5%, an increase on last year (2019: 19.5%) including a higher level of income in Australia which is taxed at higher rates. The IFRS taxation charge was GBP5.0m (2019: GBP4.5m) representing an effective underlying tax rate of 20.7% (2019: 22.8%).

Net income, representing profit for the year attributable to owners of the parent, of GBP21.2m was 14.0% above last year (2019: GBP18.6m) reflecting higher operating profit partially offset by higher interest and taxation charges. IFRS net income was GBP18.2m (2019: GBP14.2m).

Basic earnings per share in the first 28 weeks of 2020, at 25.9p, were 13.6% above last year's level reflecting the growth in operating profit. IFRS basic earnings per share were 22.3p (2019: 17.4p).

EBITDA increased to GBP49.0m for the period (2019: GBP39.2m) reflecting the increase in operating profits together with higher depreciation charges. IFRS EBITDA was GBP61.3m (2019: GBP49.2m).

In the first 28 weeks the Group absorbed GBP22.9m of cash outflow, before minorities, dividends and financing (2019: cash outflow GBP51.2m) which included significant capital expenditure comprising investments in new facilities in New Zealand together with the purchase of the Australia joint venture assets thereby increasing our borrowings. Net cash generated from operations at GBP35.4m (2019: GBP8.1m) returned to more normalised higher levels.

Cash balances at 12 July 2020 were GBP111.1m, which together with the other financial asset and net of borrowings of GBP242.8m, resulted in net bank debt of GBP131.7m (GBP97.3m at 14 July 2019 and GBP86.8m at 29 December 2019). At 12 July 2020 the Group had undrawn committed loan facilities of GBP62.3m (GBP71.1m at 29 December 2019).

The Directors consider that, given the Group's strong financial position, it is appropriate to maintain its dividend policy and have approved the payment of an interim dividend of 7.0p per ordinary share (2019: 6.0p). This interim dividend amounting to GBP5.7m will be paid on 27 November 2020 to shareholders on the register at close of business on 30 October 2020.

Going concern

The Directors have performed a detailed assessment, including a review of the Group's budget and forecasts for the 2020 financial year and its longer term plans, including consideration of the principal risks faced by the Group. The evolving Covid-19 outbreak has led to an increased demand for protein-based products produced by the Group and the Group's facilities remain fully operational. The Group has established business continuity plans and flexible supply models in order to continue to meet this increased demand. The resilience of the Group in the face of the uncertain challenges presented by Covid-19 has been assessed by applying significant downside sensitivities to the Group's cash flow projections. Allowing for these sensitivities and potential mitigating actions the Board is satisfied that the Group is able to continue to operate well within its banking covenants and has adequate headroom under its existing committed facilities. The Directors are satisfied that the Company and the Group have adequate resources to continue to operate and meet its liabilities as they fall due for the foreseeable future, a period considered to be at least 12 months from the date of signing these interim financial statements.

The Group's borrowings are detailed in note 10 to this report and the principal banking facilities which support the Group's existing and contracted new business are committed, with no renewal required until 2022. The Group continues to be in compliance with all its banking covenants. Future expansion which is not yet contracted for, and which is not built into internal budgets and forecasts, may require additional or extended banking facilities and such future expansion will depend on our ability to negotiate appropriate additional or extended facilities as and when required.

The financial position of the Group including its cash flows, liquidity position and borrowings are described above, with its business activities and the factors likely to affect its future development, performance and position being covered in the Review of operations. As at the date of this report the Directors have a reasonable expectation that the Group has adequate resources and, having reassessed the principal risks, consider it appropriate to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the interim financial statements.

The principal risks and uncertainties facing the Group's businesses

Hilton has well developed processes and structures for identifying and subsequently mitigating the key risks which the Group faces. The most significant risks and uncertainties faced by the Group, together with the Group's risk management processes are detailed in the review of Risk management and principal risks on pages 24 to 27 of the Hilton Food Group plc 2019 Annual report. The principal risks and uncertainties identified in that report were:

 
 --   The Group strategy focuses on a small number of customers who can 
       exercise significant buying power and influence when it comes to contractual 
       renewal terms at 5 to 15 year intervals; 
 --   The Group's growth potential may be affected by the success of its 
       customers and the growth of their packed food sales; 
 --   The progress of the Group's business is affected by the macroeconomic 
       environment and levels of consumer spending which is influenced by 
       publicity and the decline in the consumption of meat in the countries 
       in which it operates; 
 --   Under growth conditions the Group's business is reliant on a small 
       number of key personnel and its ability to manage growth and change 
       successfully. This risk has increased with the Group's continued expansion 
       with new customers and into new territories with potentially greater 
       reliance on stretched skilled resource and execution of simultaneous 
       growth projects; 
 --   The Group's current rate of global growth places significant demands 
       on the effectiveness of integration and compliance across new political, 
       legislative and regulatory environments. This risk is further compounded 
       due to the enormity of the change and programme management activities; 
 --   The Group's business strength is affected by its ability to maintain 
       a wide and flexible global food supply base operating at standards 
       that can continuously achieve the specifications set by Hilton and 
       its customers; 
 --   Contamination within the supply chain including outbreaks of disease 
       and feed contaminants affecting livestock and fish and media concerns 
       relating to these and instances of product adulteration can impact 
       the Group's sales; 
 --   Significant incidents such as fire, flood or interruption of supply 
       of key utilities could impact the Group's business continuity; and 
 --   The Group's IT systems could be subject to cyber-attacks including 
       ransomware and fraudulent external email activity. These kinds of 
       attacks are generally increasing in frequency and sophistication. 
 

The Covid-19 outbreak continues to present major challenges across the globe that we recognise is a significant risk for our business. There is uncertainty over i) whether continued governmental efforts to suppress the infection peak and ultimately eliminate the virus can be sustained and ii) the timing and effectiveness of any vaccine. Therefore the necessary measures we have introduced to manage our exposure to, and mitigate the impact of, this pandemic are likely to be required for some time. To date all of our facilities have remained fully operational and without interruption. Potential risks, impacts and risk mitigation measures and strategies include:

 
 Potential          Potential impact              Risk mitigation measures and strategies 
  Risk                                             adopted 
 Rise in Covid-19   o Reduction in available      o Controlled entry to all sites 
  positive           skilled operatives            o Temperature monitoring 
  cases within                                     o Extensive cleaning regimes and hand-sanitising 
  the workforce      o Production limitation       stations 
                                                   o Use of face masks, visors and screens 
                                                   o Track and trace procedures following 
                                                   all positive cases 
                                                   o Restriction on all travel and remote 
                                                   working from home 
                                                   o Virtual meeting software 
                                                   o Isolation of vulnerable employees 
                                                   o Enhanced communication to all employees 
                                                   via app, posters and briefings 
                                                   o Executive leadership focus and direction 
                                                   o Business continuity plans including 
                                                   sister site support 
                   ----------------------------  -------------------------------------------------- 
 Key suppliers      o Interruption in supply      o Critical assessment of key supplies 
  affected           chain                         o Timely communication with key suppliers 
  by rate of                                       to agree strategy to ensure the continued 
  Covid-19                                         supply of goods and services 
  transmission 
                   ----------------------------  -------------------------------------------------- 
 Local authority    o Regional lockdown           o Continuation of Covid-19 protective 
  intervention       measures reintroduced         measures 
                     o Potential closure           o Partnership arrangement with local 
                     of site due to rise           authorities to share best practice 
                     in positive cases 
                     o Mass testing requirement 
                   ----------------------------  -------------------------------------------------- 
 

The risks and uncertainties outlined above had no material adverse impact on the results for the 28 weeks to 12 July 2020 and are expected to remain unchanged for the remainder of the 2020 financial year.

The Hilton Food Group plc 2019 Annual report also identified emerging risks including Brexit and climate changes. We continue to monitor post Brexit negotiations on a trade deal and future co-operation with the EU as the end of the transition period approaches. Potential impacts on the Group include our ability to hire employees, increased trade tariffs on imported goods, possible border delays, currency volatility and dis-harmonisation of UK and EU regulatory standards in a range of areas. Our exposure is somewhat mitigated through our predominantly local sourcing and operating model. Additionally we meet regularly with relevant industry bodies and have put in place a range of contingency measures including rebalancing supply lines to minimise border crossings, flexible buy models and ongoing communication with suppliers to increase stock holdings. Overall, we still believe that the Hilton business is sufficiently resilient to withstand these uncertainties whilst minimising disruption.

Philip Heffer

Chief Executive Officer

Nigel Majewski

Chief Financial Officer

16 September 2020

Statement of Directors' responsibilities

The Directors confirm that the condensed consolidated interim financial statements (the "interim financial statements") have been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 'Interim Financial Reporting' as adopted by the European Union and that the interim management report includes a fair review of the information required by DTR 4.2.7 and DTR 4.2.8, namely:

(a) an indication of important events during the first 28 weeks and their impact on the interim financial statements, and a description of principal risks and uncertainties for the remaining 25 weeks of the financial year; and

(b) material related party transactions in the first 28 weeks and any material changes in related party transactions described in the last annual report.

The Directors of Hilton Food Group plc were listed in the 2019 Hilton Food Group plc Annual report and financial statements. The only change in Directors since 29 December 2019 has been the appointment of Rebecca Shelley. A list of current Directors is maintained on the Hilton Food Group plc website at www.hiltonfoodgroupplc.com .

On behalf of the Board

Robert Watson OBE

Executive Chairman

Nigel Majewski

Chief Financial Officer

Income statement

 
                                                    28 weeks ended  28 weeks ended 
                                                      12 July 2020    14 July 2019 
===========================================  =====  ==============  ============== 
Continuing operations                        Notes         GBP'000         GBP'000 
===========================================  =====  ==============  ============== 
Revenue                                          4       1,264,155         912,067 
===========================================  =====  ==============  ============== 
Cost of sales                                          (1,112,825)       (791,391) 
-------------------------------------------  -----  --------------  -------------- 
Gross profit                                               151,330         120,676 
===========================================  =====  ==============  ============== 
Distribution costs                                        (12,064)        (10,538) 
===========================================  =====  ==============  ============== 
Administrative expenses                                  (111,361)        (87,321) 
===========================================  =====  ==============  ============== 
Share of profit in joint venture                             3,403           3,361 
-------------------------------------------  -----  --------------  -------------- 
Operating profit                                 4          31,308          26,178 
-------------------------------------------  -----  --------------  -------------- 
Finance income                                                   1              78 
===========================================  =====  ==============  ============== 
Finance costs                                              (7,272)         (6,393) 
-------------------------------------------  -----  --------------  -------------- 
Finance costs - net                                        (7,271)         (6,315) 
-------------------------------------------  -----  --------------  -------------- 
Profit before income tax                                    24,037          19,863 
===========================================  =====  ==============  ============== 
Income tax expense                               5         (4,969)         (4,527) 
-------------------------------------------  -----  --------------  -------------- 
Profit for the period                                       19,068          15,336 
-------------------------------------------  -----  --------------  -------------- 
 
Profit attributable to: 
===========================================  =====  ==============  ============== 
Owners of the parent                                        18,218          14,202 
===========================================  =====  ==============  ============== 
Non-controlling interests                                      850           1,134 
-------------------------------------------  -----  --------------  -------------- 
                                                            19,068          15,336 
-------------------------------------------  -----  --------------  -------------- 
 
Earnings per share for profit attributable 
 to owners of the parent 
===========================================  =====  ==============  ============== 
- Basic (pence)                                  7            22.3            17.4 
===========================================  =====  ==============  ============== 
- Diluted (pence)                                7            22.1            17.2 
-------------------------------------------  -----  --------------  -------------- 
 
 
 
 
Statement of comprehensive income 
                                               28 weeks ended  28 weeks ended 
                                                 12 July 2020    14 July 2019 
                                                      GBP'000         GBP'000 
============================================   ==============  ============== 
Profit for the period                                  19,068          15,336 
---------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
Other comprehensive income 
Currency translation differences                        4,152           (700) 
---------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
Other comprehensive income for the period 
 net of tax                                             4,152           (700) 
---------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
Total comprehensive income for the period              23,220          14,636 
---------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
Total comprehensive income attributable to: 
============================================   ==============  ============== 
Owners of the parent                                   22,129          13,545 
=============================================  ==============  ============== 
Non-controlling interests                               1,091           1,091 
---------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
                                                       23,220          14,636 
 --------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
The notes form an integral part of these interim financial statements. 
 

Balance sheet

 
                                         12 July 2020  14 July 2019  29 December 
                                                                            2019 
                                  Notes       GBP'000       GBP'000      GBP'000 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Assets 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Non-current assets 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Property, plant and equipment         8       276,463       203,784      226,562 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Lease: Right-of-use asset             8       144,434       202,083      178,293 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Intangible assets                     8        68,578        69,771       69,539 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Investments                           9        13,179        11,833       11,758 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Trade and other receivables                       176           809          662 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Deferred income tax assets                      2,467         1,485        2,270 
--------------------------------  -----  ------------  ------------  ----------- 
                                              505,297       489,765      489,084 
--------------------------------  -----  ------------  ------------  ----------- 
Current assets 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Inventories                                   107,433        91,331       91,337 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Trade and other receivables                   251,894       192,950      214,611 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Current income tax assets                       1,973         1,354            - 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Other financial asset                               -         4,377            - 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Cash and cash equivalents                     111,064        79,186      110,514 
--------------------------------  -----  ------------  ------------  ----------- 
                                              472,364       369,198      416,462 
--------------------------------  -----  ------------  ------------  ----------- 
Total assets                                  977,661       858,963      905,546 
--------------------------------  -----  ------------  ------------  ----------- 
 
Equity and liabilities 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Equity 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Share capital                        11         8,191         8,170        8,173 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Share premium                                  65,397        63,880       64,251 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Employee share schemes reserve                  3,362         4,205        4,139 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Foreign currency translation 
 reserve                                        4,166         3,477          255 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Retained earnings                             145,824       126,232      140,192 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Reverse acquisition reserve                  (31,700)      (31,700)     (31,700) 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Merger reserve                                    919           919          919 
--------------------------------  -----  ------------  ------------  ----------- 
Equity attributable to owners 
 of the parent                                196,159       175,183      186,229 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Non-controlling interests                       5,640         4,974        5,711 
--------------------------------  -----  ------------  ------------  ----------- 
Total equity                                  201,799       180,157      191,940 
--------------------------------  -----  ------------  ------------  ----------- 
 
Liabilities 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Non-current liabilities 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Borrowings                           10       215,383       160,747      175,370 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Lease liability                               142,646       137,256      132,790 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Trade and other payables                        3,318             -        3,318 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Deferred income tax liabilities                 3,125         5,752        4,116 
--------------------------------  -----  ------------  ------------  ----------- 
                                              364,472       303,755      315,594 
--------------------------------  -----  ------------  ------------  ----------- 
Current liabilities 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Borrowings                           10        27,372        20,112       21,969 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Lease liability                                11,077        70,394       51,843 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Trade and other payables                      372,941       284,545      321,771 
================================  =====  ============  ============  =========== 
Current income tax liabilities                      -             -        2,429 
--------------------------------  -----  ------------  ------------  ----------- 
                                              411,390       375,051      398,012 
--------------------------------  -----  ------------  ------------  ----------- 
Total liabilities                             775,862       678,806      713,606 
--------------------------------  -----  ------------  ------------  ----------- 
Total equity and liabilities                  977,661       858,963      905,546 
--------------------------------  -----  ------------  ------------  ----------- 
 
The notes form an integral part of these interim financial statements. 
 

Statement of changes in equity

 
                                            Attributable to owners of the parent 
                      ================================================================================= 
                                        Employee      Foreign 
                                           share     currency                Reverse 
                        Share    Share   schemes  translation  Retained  acquisition   Merger            Non-controlling     Total 
                      capital  premium   reserve      reserve  earnings      reserve  reserve     Total        interests    equity 
                Note  GBP'000  GBP'000   GBP'000      GBP'000   GBP'000      GBP'000  GBP'000   GBP'000          GBP'000   GBP'000 
==============  ====  =======  =======  ========  ===========  ========  ===========  =======  ========  ===============  ======== 
Balance at 31 
 December 
 2018                   8,160   63,628     5,505        4,134   124,923     (31,700)      919   175,569            5,677   181,246 
--------------  ----  -------  -------  --------  -----------  --------  -----------  -------  --------  ---------------  -------- 
Comprehensive 
income 
==============  ====  =======  =======  ========  ===========  ========  ===========  =======  ========  ===============  ======== 
Profit for the 
 period                     -        -         -            -    14,202            -        -    14,202            1,134    15,336 
==============  ====  =======  =======  ========  ===========  ========  ===========  =======  ========  ===============  ======== 
Other 
comprehensive 
income 
==============  ====  =======  =======  ========  ===========  ========  ===========  =======  ========  ===============  ======== 
Currency 
 translation 
 differences                -        -         -        (657)         -            -        -     (657)             (43)     (700) 
--------------  ----  -------  -------  --------  -----------  --------  -----------  -------  --------  ---------------  -------- 
Total 
 comprehensive 
 income                     -        -         -        (657)    14,202            -        -    13,545            1,091    14,636 
--------------  ----  -------  -------  --------  -----------  --------  -----------  -------  --------  ---------------  -------- 
Transactions 
with 
owners 
==============  ====  =======  =======  ========  ===========  ========  ===========  =======  ========  ===============  ======== 
Issue of new 
 shares           11       10      252         -            -         -            -        -       262                -       262 
==============  ====  =======  =======  ========  ===========  ========  ===========  =======  ========  ===============  ======== 
Adjustment in 
 respect 
 of employee 
 share 
 schemes                    -        -   (1,300)            -         -            -        -   (1,300)                -   (1,300) 
==============  ====  =======  =======  ========  ===========  ========  ===========  =======  ========  ===============  ======== 
Dividends paid     6        -        -         -            -  (12,893)            -        -  (12,893)          (1,794)  (14,687) 
--------------  ----  -------  -------  --------  -----------  --------  -----------  -------  --------  ---------------  -------- 
Total 
 transactions 
 with owners, 
 recognised 
 directly in 
 equity                    10      252   (1,300)            -  (12,893)            -        -  (13,931)          (1,794)  (15,725) 
--------------  ----  -------  -------  --------  -----------  --------  -----------  -------  --------  ---------------  -------- 
Balance at 14 
 July 
 2019                   8,170   63,880     4,205        3,477   126,232     (31,700)      919   175,183            4,974   180,157 
--------------  ----  -------  -------  --------  -----------  --------  -----------  -------  --------  ---------------  -------- 
 
Balance at 30 
 December 
 2019                   8,173   64,251     4,139          255   140,192     (31,700)      919   186,229            5,711   191,940 
--------------  ----  -------  -------  --------  -----------  --------  -----------  -------  --------  ---------------  -------- 
Comprehensive 
income 
==============  ====  =======  =======  ========  ===========  ========  ===========  =======  ========  ===============  ======== 
Profit for the 
 period                     -        -         -            -    18,218            -        -    18,218              850    19,068 
==============  ====  =======  =======  ========  ===========  ========  ===========  =======  ========  ===============  ======== 
Other 
comprehensive 
income 
==============  ====  =======  =======  ========  ===========  ========  ===========  =======  ========  ===============  ======== 
Currency 
 translation 
 differences                -        -         -        3,911         -            -        -     3,911              241     4,152 
--------------  ----  -------  -------  --------  -----------  --------  -----------  -------  --------  ---------------  -------- 
Total 
 comprehensive 
 income                     -        -         -        3,911    18,218            -        -    22,129            1,091    23,220 
--------------  ----  -------  -------  --------  -----------  --------  -----------  -------  --------  ---------------  -------- 
Transactions 
with 
owners 
==============  ====  =======  =======  ========  ===========  ========  ===========  =======  ========  ===============  ======== 
Issue of new 
 shares           11       18    1,146         -            -         -            -        -     1,164                -     1,164 
==============  ====  =======  =======  ========  ===========  ========  ===========  =======  ========  ===============  ======== 
Adjustment in 
 respect 
 of employee 
 share 
 schemes                    -        -     (777)            -         -            -        -     (777)                -     (777) 
==============  ====  =======  =======  ========  ===========  ========  ===========  =======  ========  ===============  ======== 
Dividends paid     6        -        -         -            -  (12,586)            -        -  (12,586)          (1,162)  (13,748) 
--------------  ----  -------  -------  --------  -----------  --------  -----------  -------  --------  ---------------  -------- 
Total 
 transactions 
 with owners, 
 recognised 
 directly in 
 equity                    18    1,146     (777)            -  (12,586)            -        -  (12,199)          (1,162)  (13,361) 
--------------  ----  -------  -------  --------  -----------  --------  -----------  -------  --------  ---------------  -------- 
Balance at 12 
 July 
 2020                   8,191   65,397     3,362        4,166   145,824     (31,700)      919   196,159            5,640   201,799 
--------------  ----  -------  -------  --------  -----------  --------  -----------  -------  --------  ---------------  -------- 
 

The notes form an integral part of these interim financial statements .

Cash flow statement

 
                                                  28 weeks ended  28 weeks ended 
                                                    12 July 2020    14 July 2019 
                                                         GBP'000         GBP'000 
===============================================   ==============  ============== 
Cash flows from operating activities 
===============================================   ==============  ============== 
Cash generated from operations                            53,234          19,522 
================================================  ==============  ============== 
Interest paid                                            (7,271)         (6,393) 
================================================  ==============  ============== 
Income tax paid                                         (10,568)         (4,981) 
------------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
Net cash generated from operating activities              35,395           8,148 
------------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
Cash flows from investing activities 
===============================================   ==============  ============== 
Dividends received from joint venture                      2,133           2,103 
================================================  ==============  ============== 
Investment in joint venture                                    -         (5,246) 
================================================  ==============  ============== 
Acquisition of subsidiary net of cash acquired                 -             591 
================================================  ==============  ============== 
Purchases of property, plant and equipment              (60,277)        (56,172) 
================================================  ==============  ============== 
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and 
 equipment                                                   261              22 
================================================  ==============  ============== 
Purchases of intangible assets                             (373)           (677) 
================================================  ==============  ============== 
Interest received                                              -              78 
------------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
Net cash used in investing activities                   (58,256)        (59,301) 
------------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
Cash flows from financing activities 
===============================================   ==============  ============== 
Proceeds from borrowings                                  71,563          73,257 
================================================  ==============  ============== 
Repayments of borrowings                                (29,506)         (5,582) 
================================================  ==============  ============== 
Payment of lease liability                               (8,290)         (6,190) 
================================================  ==============  ============== 
Issue of new shares                                        1,164             262 
================================================  ==============  ============== 
Other financial asset                                          -           3,478 
================================================  ==============  ============== 
Dividends paid to owners of the parent                  (12,586)        (12,893) 
================================================  ==============  ============== 
Dividends paid to non-controlling interests              (1,162)         (1,794) 
------------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
Net cash generated from financing activities              21,183          50,538 
------------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents                (1,678)           (615) 
================================================  ==============  ============== 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of 
 the period                                              110,514          80,234 
================================================  ==============  ============== 
Exchange gains/(losses) on cash and cash 
 equivalents                                               2,228           (433) 
------------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period           111,064          79,186 
------------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
The notes form an integral part of these interim financial statements. 
 

Notes to the interim financial statements

1 General information

Hilton Food Group plc ("the Company") and its subsidiaries (together "the Group") is the leading specialist international food packing business.

The Company is a public limited company incorporated and domiciled in the UK. The address of the registered office is 2-8 The Interchange, Latham Road, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire PE29 6YE. The registered number of the Company is 06165540.

The Company maintains a Premium Listing on the London Stock Exchange.

These interim financial statements were approved for issue on 16 September 2020.

These interim financial statements do not comprise statutory accounts within the meaning of Section 434 of the Companies Act 2006. Statutory accounts for the 52 weeks ended 29 December 2019 were approved by the Board of Directors on 6 April 2020 and delivered to the Registrar of Companies. The report of the auditors on those accounts was unqualified, did not contain an emphasis of matter paragraph and did not contain any statement under Section 498 of the Companies Act 2006.

These interim financial statements have been reviewed, not audited.

2 Basis of preparation

These interim financial statements for the 28 weeks ended 12 July 2020 have been prepared in accordance with the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the Financial Conduct Authority and with IAS 34, 'Interim financial reporting' as adopted by the European Union. The interim financial statements should be read in conjunction with the annual report and financial statements for the 52 weeks ended 29 December 2019 which have been prepared in accordance with IFRS as adopted by the European Union.

Estimates

The preparation of interim financial statements requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, income and expense. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

In preparing these interim financial statements, the significant judgements made by management in applying the Group's accounting policies and the key sources of estimation uncertainty were, the same as those that applied to the consolidated financial statements for the 52 weeks ended 29 December 2019.

3 Accounting policies

The accounting policies adopted in the preparation of these interim results are consistent with those applied in the preparation of the Group's annual report for the year ended 29 December 2019.

Current income tax

Taxes on income in the interim periods are accrued using the tax rate that would be applicable to expected total annual earnings

4 Segment information

Management have determined the operating segments based on the reports reviewed by the Executive Directors that are used to make strategic decisions.

The Executive Directors have considered the business from both a geographic and product perspective.

From a geographic perspective, the Executive Directors consider that the Group has eight operating segments: i) United Kingdom; ii) Netherlands; iii) Republic of Ireland; iv) Sweden; v) Denmark; vi) Central Europe including Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia; vii) Portugal and viii) Australasia and ix) Central costs. The United Kingdom, Netherlands, Republic of Ireland, Sweden, Denmark, Central Europe and Portugal have been aggregated into one reportable segment, 'Europe' as they have similar economic characteristics as identified in IFRS 8. Australasia and Central costs comprise the other reportable segments.

In the prior year, Western and Central Europe was presented as a separate segments, however these have now been combined into a single European segment. 2019 segmental information has been restated to show the combined segment.

From a product perspective the Executive Directors consider that the Group has only one identifiable product, wholesaling of food protein products including meat, fish and vegetarian. The Executive Directors consider that no further segmentation is appropriate, as all of the Group's operations are subject to similar risks and returns and exhibit similar long term financial performance.

 
The segment information provided to the Executive Directors for the reportable 
 segments is as follows: 
                                                                             Operating 
                                                 Total segment           profit/(loss) 
                                                       revenue          segment result 
                                                       GBP'000                 GBP'000 
=====================================    =====================  ====================== 
28 weeks ended 12 July 
 2020 
=====================================    =====================  ====================== 
Europe                                               1,036,084                  30,091 
=======================================  =====================  ====================== 
Australasia                                            228,071                   8,526 
=======================================  =====================  ====================== 
Central and other                                            -                 (7,309) 
---------------------------------------  ---------------------  ---------------------- 
Total                                                1,264,155                  31,308 
---------------------------------------  ---------------------  ---------------------- 
 
28 weeks ended 14 July 
 2019 
=====================================    =====================  ====================== 
Europe                                                 904,516                  26,694 
=======================================  =====================  ====================== 
Australasia                                              7,551                   5,405 
=======================================  =====================  ====================== 
Central and other                                            -                 (5,921) 
---------------------------------------  ---------------------  ---------------------- 
Total                                                  912,067                  26,178 
---------------------------------------  ---------------------  ---------------------- 
 
The Group uses a number of alternative performance measures to asses underlying 
 performance, these are explained 
and reconciled to the segmental results presented above in note 14. 
 
 
 
                              12 July  14 July  29 December 
                                 2020     2019         2019 
 
                              GBP'000  GBP'000      GBP'000 
===========================   =======  =======  =========== 
Total assets 
===========================   =======  =======  =========== 
Europe                        561,299  530,116      541,582 
============================  =======  =======  =========== 
Australasia                   394,401  309,662      348,293 
============================  =======  =======  =========== 
Central and other              17,521   16,346       13,401 
----------------------------  -------  -------  ----------- 
Total segment assets          973,221  856,124      903,276 
============================  =======  =======  =========== 
Current income tax assets       1,973    1,354            - 
============================  =======  =======  =========== 
Deferred income tax assets      2,467    1,485        2,270 
----------------------------  -------  -------  ----------- 
Total assets per balance 
 sheet                        977,661  858,963      905,546 
----------------------------  -------  -------  ----------- 
 
There are no significant seasonal fluctuations. 
 

5 Income tax expense

Income tax expense is recognised based on management's best estimate of the weighted average annual income tax rate expected for the full financial year. The estimated average annual tax rate used for the 53 weeks to 3 January 2021 is 20.7%. The estimated average annual effective tax rate for the 28 weeks ended 14 July 2019 was 22.8%.

 
6 Dividends 
                                                      28 weeks ended  28 weeks ended 
                                                        12 July 2020    14 July 2019 
                                                             GBP'000         GBP'000 
====================================================  ==============  ============== 
Final dividend paid 15.4p per ordinary share (2019: 
 15.8p)                                                       12,586          12,893 
----------------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
Total dividends paid                                          12,586          12,893 
----------------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
 

The Directors have approved the payment of an interim dividend of 7.0p per share payable on 27 November 2020 to shareholders who are on the register at 30 October 2020. This interim dividend, amounting to GBP5.7m has not been recognised as a liability in these interim financial statements. It will be recognised in shareholders' equity in the 53 weeks to 3 January 2021.

7 Earnings per share

Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing the profit attributable to equity holders of the Company by the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue during the period.

Diluted earnings per share are calculated by adjusting the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding to assume conversion of all dilutive potential ordinary shares. The Company has share options for which a calculation is done to determine the number of shares that could have been acquired at fair value (determined as the average annual market share price of the Company's shares) based on the monetary value of the subscription rights attached to outstanding share options. The number of shares calculated as above is compared with the number of shares that would have been issued assuming the exercise of the share options.

 
                                                        28 weeks ended    28 weeks ended 
                                                          12 July 2020      14 July 2019 
                                                        Basic  Diluted    Basic  Diluted 
======================================  ============  =======  =======  =======  ======= 
Profit attributable to equity holders 
 of the Company                            (GBP'000)   18,218   18,218   14,202   14,202 
--------------------------------------  ------------  -------  -------  -------  ------- 
Weighted average number of ordinary 
 shares in issue                         (thousands)   81,756   81,756   81,619   81,619 
======================================  ============  =======  =======  =======  ======= 
Adjustment for share options             (thousands)        -      827        -      991 
--------------------------------------  ------------  -------  -------  -------  ------- 
Adjusted weighted average number of 
 ordinary shares                         (thousands)   81,756   82,583   81,619   82,610 
--------------------------------------  ------------  -------  -------  -------  ------- 
Basic and diluted earnings per share         (pence)     22.3     22.1     17.4     17.2 
--------------------------------------  ------------  -------  -------  -------  ------- 
 
 
 
8 Property, plant and equipment, right-of-use and intangible assets 
                                            Property, plant  Right-of-use  Intangible 
                                              and equipment         asset      assets 
                                                    GBP'000       GBP'000     GBP'000 
==========================================  ===============  ============  ========== 
28 weeks ended 14 July 2019 
==========================================  ===============  ============  ========== 
Opening net book amount as at 31 December 
 2018                                               157,619       140,647      66,960 
==========================================  ===============  ============  ========== 
Exchange adjustments                                    642         1,721           7 
==========================================  ===============  ============  ========== 
Acquisition of subsidiary                               850           232       3,318 
==========================================  ===============  ============  ========== 
Additions                                            56,172        68,957         677 
==========================================  ===============  ============  ========== 
Disposals                                              (20)          (29)           - 
==========================================  ===============  ============  ========== 
Transfer                                              (181)             -         181 
==========================================  ===============  ============  ========== 
Depreciation and amortisation                      (11,298)       (9,445)     (1,372) 
------------------------------------------  ---------------  ------------  ---------- 
Closing net book amount as at 14 July 
 2019                                               203,784       202,083      69,771 
------------------------------------------  ---------------  ------------  ---------- 
 
28 weeks ended 12 July 2020 
==========================================  ===============  ============  ========== 
Opening net book amount as at 30 December 
 2019                                               226,562       178,293      69,539 
==========================================  ===============  ============  ========== 
Exchange adjustments                                  6,916         2,957          14 
==========================================  ===============  ============  ========== 
Additions                                            24,149         7,891         373 
==========================================  ===============  ============  ========== 
Disposals                                             (235)             -           - 
==========================================  ===============  ============  ========== 
Revaluation                                            (22)         2,628           - 
==========================================  ===============  ============  ========== 
Transfer                                             36,038      (36,128)          90 
==========================================  ===============  ============  ========== 
Depreciation and amortisation                      (16,945)      (11,207)     (1,438) 
------------------------------------------  ---------------  ------------  ---------- 
Closing net book amount as at 12 July 
 2020                                               276,463       144,434      68,578 
------------------------------------------  ---------------  ------------  ---------- 
 
 
9 Investments 
 
Investments in joint ventures 
                                          28 weeks ended  28 weeks ended  52 weeks ended 
                                                 12 July         14 July     31 December 
                                                    2020            2019            2019 
                                                 GBP'000         GBP'000         GBP'000 
----------------------------------------  --------------  --------------  -------------- 
At the beginning of the year                      11,758           5,209           5,209 
----------------------------------------  --------------  --------------  -------------- 
Acquisitions                                           -           5,246           5,246 
----------------------------------------  --------------  --------------  -------------- 
Profit for the period                              3,403           3,361           6,406 
----------------------------------------  --------------  --------------  -------------- 
Dividends received                               (2,133)         (2,103)         (4,995) 
----------------------------------------  --------------  --------------  -------------- 
Effect of movements in foreign exchange              151             120           (108) 
----------------------------------------  --------------  --------------  -------------- 
At the end of the year                            13,179          11,833          11,758 
----------------------------------------  --------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
 
 
10 Borrowings 
                                                    12 July         14 July         29 December 
                                                       2020            2019                2019 
                                                    GBP'000         GBP'000             GBP'000 
=========================================  ================  ==============  ================== 
Current                                              27,372          20,112              21,969 
=========================================  ================  ==============  ================== 
Non-current                                         215,383         160,747             175,370 
-----------------------------------------  ----------------  --------------  ------------------ 
Total borrowings                                    242,755         180,859             197,339 
-----------------------------------------  ----------------  --------------  ------------------ 
 
Movements in borrowings is analysed 
 as follows: 
                                             28 weeks ended  28 weeks ended      52 weeks ended 
                                                    12 July         14 July         29 December 
                                                       2020            2019                2019 
                                                    GBP'000         GBP'000             GBP'000 
=========================================  ================  ==============  ================== 
Opening amount                                      197,339         114,834             114,834 
=========================================  ================  ==============  ================== 
Exchange adjustments                                  3,359             132             (3,077) 
=========================================  ================  ==============  ================== 
New borrowings                                       71,563          72,909              95,596 
=========================================  ================  ==============  ================== 
Increase in bank overdrafts                               -             348                   - 
=========================================  ================  ==============  ================== 
Repayment of borrowings                            (29,506)         (5,582)             (8,311) 
-----------------------------------------  ----------------  --------------  ------------------ 
Reclassification to lease liability                       -         (1,782)             (1,703) 
-----------------------------------------  ----------------  --------------  ------------------ 
Closing amount                                      242,755         180,859             197,339 
-----------------------------------------  ----------------  --------------  ------------------ 
 
11 Ordinary shares 
                                                  Number of        Ordinary 
                                                     shares          shares               Total 
                                                (thousands)         GBP'000             GBP'000 
==============================================  ===========  ==============  ================== 
At 31 December 2018                                  81,598           8,160               8,160 
==============================================  ===========  ==============  ================== 
Issue of new shares on exercise of employee 
 share options                                          106              10                  10 
----------------------------------------------  -----------  --------------  ------------------ 
At 14 July 2019                                      81,704           8,170               8,170 
----------------------------------------------  -----------  --------------  ------------------ 
 
At 30 December 2019                                  81,725           8,173               8,173 
==============================================  ===========  ==============  ================== 
Issue of new shares on exercise of employee 
 share options                                          181              18                  18 
----------------------------------------------  -----------  --------------  ------------------ 
At 12 July 2020                                      81,906           8,191               8,191 
----------------------------------------------  -----------  --------------  ------------------ 
 
 

12 Related party transactions

The Directors do not consider there to be one ultimate controlling party. The companies noted below are all deemed to be related parties by way of common Directors.

Transactions between related parties on an arm's length basis were as follows:

 
                                      28 weeks ended  28 weeks ended  52 weeks ended 
                                             12 July         14 July     29 December 
                                                2020            2019            2019 
                                             GBP'000         GBP'000         GBP'000 
====================================  ==============  ==============  ============== 
Dalco Food B.V.                                    3               -             117 
====================================  ==============  ==============  ============== 
Sohi Meat Solutions Distribuicao de 
 Carnes SA - 
  Fee for services                             2,209           1,719           3,246 
====================================  ==============  ==============  ============== 
Sohi Meat Solutions Distribuicao de 
 Carnes SA - 
  Recharge of joint venture costs                310             874             352 
------------------------------------  --------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
Amounts owing from related parties were as follows: 
                                             12 July         14 July     29 December 
                                                2020            2019            2019 
                                             GBP'000         GBP'000         GBP'000 
====================================  ==============  ==============  ============== 
Dalco Food B.V.                                    -               -             117 
====================================  ==============  ==============  ============== 
Sohi Meat Solutions Distribuicao de 
 Carnes SA                                        35             311             348 
------------------------------------  --------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
 

13 Financial instruments

The fair value of the financial assets and liabilities approximate to their carrying amounts.

14 Alternative performance measures

The Group's performance is assessed using a number of alternative performance measures (APMs).

The Group's alternative profitability measures are presented before exceptional items, amortisation of certain intangible assets acquired through business combinations and the impact of IFRS 16.

The measures are presented on this basis, as management believe they provide useful additional information about the Group's performance and aids a more effective comparison of the Group's underlying trading performance.

Adjusted profitability measures are reconciled to unadjusted IFRS results on the face of the income statement below.

 
28 weeks ended 12 July 
 2020 
                                                         Less:                      Add back: 
                                                        IAS 17                   Amortisation 
                                     Add back:           Lease    Reported     of acquisition 
                         Reported      IFRS 16      accounting      - excl        intangibles    Adjusted 
                                        Impact           costs     IFRS 16 
                          GBP'000      GBP'000         GBP'000     GBP'000            GBP'000     GBP'000 
===================  ============  ===========  ==============  ==========  =================  ========== 
Operating profit           31,308       10,986        (12,101)      30,193              1,319      31,512 
===================  ============  ===========  ==============  ==========  =================  ========== 
Net finance costs         (7,271)        3,818               -     (3,453)                  -     (3,453) 
-------------------  ------------  -----------  --------------  ----------  -----------------  ---------- 
Profit before 
 income 
 tax                       24,037       14,804        (12,101)      26,740              1,319      28,059 
-------------------  ------------  -----------  --------------  ----------  -----------------  ---------- 
 
Profit for the 
 period                    19,068       14,002        (12,101)      20,969              1,068      22,037 
===================  ============  ===========  ==============  ==========  =================  ========== 
Less 
 non-controlling 
 interests                  (850)        (198)             185       (863)                  -       (863) 
-------------------  ------------  -----------  --------------  ----------  -----------------  ---------- 
Profit attributable 
 to members of the 
 parent                    18,218       13,804        (11,916)      20,106              1,068      21,174 
-------------------  ------------  -----------  --------------  ----------  -----------------  ---------- 
 
Depreciation and 
 amortisation*             29,962     (11,108)               -      18,854            (1,319)      17,535 
===================  ============  ===========  ==============  ==========  =================  ========== 
EBITDA                     61,270        (122)        (12,101)      49,047                  -      49,047 
-------------------  ------------  -----------  --------------  ----------  -----------------  ---------- 
 
Earnings Per Share          Pence                                    pence                          pence 
===================  ============  ===========  ==============  ==========  =================  ========== 
Basic                        22.3                                     24.6                           25.9 
===================  ============  ===========  ==============  ==========  =================  ========== 
Diluted                      22.1                                     24.3                           25.6 
-------------------  ------------  -----------  --------------  ----------  -----------------  ---------- 
 
 

*Includes GBP372,000 amortisation of contract assets charged to revenue.

 
28 weeks ended 14 July 
 2019 
                                                        Less:                      Add back: 
                                    Add back:          IAS 17                   Amortisation 
                                      IFRS 16           Lease    Reported     of acquisition 
                         Reported      Impact      accounting      - excl        intangibles    Adjusted 
                                                        costs     IFRS 16 
                          GBP'000     GBP'000         GBP'000     GBP'000            GBP'000     GBP'000 
===================  ============  ==========  ==============  ==========  =================  ========== 
Operating profit           26,178       9,340        (10,071)      25,447              1,283      26,730 
===================  ============  ==========  ==============  ==========  =================  ========== 
Net finance costs         (6,315)       4,064               -     (2,251)                  -     (2,251) 
-------------------  ------------  ----------  --------------  ----------  -----------------  ---------- 
Profit before 
 income 
 tax                       19,863      13,404        (10,071)      23,196              1,283      24,479 
-------------------  ------------  ----------  --------------  ----------  -----------------  ---------- 
 
Profit for the 
 period                    15,336      13,404        (10,071)      18,669              1,039      19,708 
===================  ============  ==========  ==============  ==========  =================  ========== 
Less 
 non-controlling 
 interests                (1,134)       (189)             187     (1,136)                  -     (1,136) 
-------------------  ------------  ----------  --------------  ----------  -----------------  ---------- 
Profit attributable 
 to members of the 
 parent                    14,202      13,215         (9,884)      17,533              1,039      18,572 
-------------------  ------------  ----------  --------------  ----------  -----------------  ---------- 
 
Depreciation and 
 amortisation*             23,063     (9,340)               -      13,723            (1,283)      12,440 
===================  ============  ==========  ==============  ==========  =================  ========== 
EBITDA                     49,241           -        (10,071)      39,170                  -      39,170 
-------------------  ------------  ----------  --------------  ----------  -----------------  ---------- 
 
Earnings Per Share          pence                                   pence                          pence 
===================  ============  ==========  ==============  ==========  =================  ========== 
Basic                        17.4                                    21.5                           22.8 
===================  ============  ==========  ==============  ==========  =================  ========== 
Diluted                      17.2                                    21.2                           22.5 
-------------------  ------------  ----------  --------------  ----------  -----------------  ---------- 
 
 

*Includes GBP950,000 amortisation of contract assets charged to revenue.

Segmental operating profit reconciles to adjusted segmental operating profit as follows:

 
28 weeks ended 12 
 July 2020 
                                                             Less:                       Add back: 
                                    Add back:               IAS 17                    Amortisation 
                                      IFRS 16     Lease accounting     Reported     of acquisition 
                        Reported       Impact                costs       - excl        intangibles    Adjusted 
                                                                           IFRS 
                                                                             16 
                         GBP'000      GBP'000              GBP'000      GBP'000            GBP'000     GBP'000 
====================  ==========  ===========  ===================  ===========  =================  ========== 
Europe                    30,091        3,015              (3,099)       30,007              1,319      31,326 
====================  ==========  ===========  ===================  ===========  =================  ========== 
Australasia                8,526        7,971              (9,002)        7,495                  -       7,495 
====================  ==========  ===========  ===================  ===========  =================  ========== 
Central costs            (7,309)            -                    -      (7,309)                  -     (7,309) 
--------------------  ----------  -----------  -------------------  -----------  -----------------  ---------- 
Total                     31,308       10,986             (12,101)       30,193              1,319      31,512 
--------------------  ----------  -----------  -------------------  -----------  -----------------  ---------- 
 
 
 
28 weeks ended 14 
 July 2019 
                                                             Less:                       Add back: 
                                    Add back:               IAS 17                    Amortisation 
                                      IFRS 16     Lease accounting     Reported     of acquisition 
                        Reported       Impact                costs       - excl        intangibles    Adjusted 
                                                                           IFRS 
                                                                             16 
                         GBP'000      GBP'000              GBP'000      GBP'000            GBP'000     GBP'000 
====================  ==========  ===========  ===================  ===========  =================  ========== 
Europe                    26,694        3,137              (3,176)       26,655              1,283      27,938 
====================  ==========  ===========  ===================  ===========  =================  ========== 
Australasia                5,405        6,203              (6,895)        4,713                  -       4,713 
====================  ==========  ===========  ===================  ===========  =================  ========== 
Central costs            (5,921)            -                    -      (5,921)                  -     (5,921) 
--------------------  ----------  -----------  -------------------  -----------  -----------------  ---------- 
Total                     26,178        9,340             (10,071)       25,447              1,283      26,730 
--------------------  ----------  -----------  -------------------  -----------  -----------------  ---------- 
 
 

Independent review report

Independent review report to Hilton Food Group plc

Report on the condensed consolidated interim financial statements

Our conclusion

We have reviewed Hilton Food Group plc's condensed consolidated interim financial statements (the "interim financial statements") in the half year report of Hilton Food Group plc for the 28 week period ended 12 July 2020. Based on our review, nothing has come to our attention that causes us to believe that the interim financial statements are not prepared, in all material respects, in accordance with International Accounting Standard 34, 'Interim Financial Reporting', as adopted by the European Union and the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules sourcebook of the United Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority.

What we have reviewed

The interim financial statements comprise:

 
 --   the Balance sheet as at 12 July 2020; 
 --   the Income statement and Statement of comprehensive income for the 
       period then ended; 
 --   the Cash flow statement for the period then ended; 
 --   the Statement of changes in equity for the period then ended; and 
 --   the explanatory notes to the interim financial statements. 
 

The interim financial statements included in the interim results have been prepared in accordance with International Accounting Standard 34, 'Interim Financial Reporting', as adopted by the European Union and the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules sourcebook of the United Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority.

As disclosed in note 2 to the interim financial statements, the financial reporting framework that has been applied in the preparation of the full annual financial statements of the Group is applicable law and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) as adopted by the European Union.

Responsibilities for the interim financial statements and the review

Our responsibilities and those of the Directors

The interim results, including the interim financial statements, is the responsibility of, and has been approved by, the Directors. The Directors are responsible for preparing the interim results in accordance with the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules sourcebook of the United Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority.

Our responsibility is to express a conclusion on the interim financial statements in the interim results based on our review. This report, including the conclusion, has been prepared for and only for the Company for the purpose of complying with the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules sourcebook of the United Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority and for no other purpose. We do not, in giving this conclusion, accept or assume responsibility for any other purpose or to any other person to whom this report is shown or into whose hands it may come save where expressly agreed by our prior consent in writing.

What a review of interim financial statements involves

We conducted our review in accordance with International Standard on Review Engagements (UK and Ireland) 2410, 'Review of Interim Financial Information Performed by the Independent Auditor of the Entity' issued by the Auditing Practices Board for use in the United Kingdom. A review of interim financial information consists of making enquiries, primarily of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters, and applying analytical and other review procedures.

A review is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) and, consequently, does not enable us to obtain assurance that we would become aware of all significant matters that might be identified in an audit. Accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion.

We have read the other information contained in the interim results and considered whether it contains any apparent misstatements or material inconsistencies with the information in the interim financial statements.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Chartered Accountants

Belfast

16 September 2020

The maintenance and integrity of the Hilton Food Group website is the responsibility of the Directors; the work carried out by the auditors does not involve consideration of these matters and, accordingly, the auditors accept no responsibility for any changes that may have occurred to the financial statements since they were initially presented on the website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

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END

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September 17, 2020 02:00 ET (06:00 GMT)

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