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BOWL Hollywood Bowl Group Plc

340.00
-3.00 (-0.87%)
03 May 2024 - Closed
Delayed by 15 minutes
Share Name Share Symbol Market Type Share ISIN Share Description
Hollywood Bowl Group Plc LSE:BOWL London Ordinary Share GB00BD0NVK62 ORD 1P
  Price Change % Change Share Price Bid Price Offer Price High Price Low Price Open Price Shares Traded Last Trade
  -3.00 -0.87% 340.00 341.50 342.50 345.00 340.00 345.00 408,384 16:35:02
Industry Sector Turnover Profit EPS - Basic PE Ratio Market Cap
Bowling Centers 215.08M 34.15M 0.1989 17.22 588.11M

Hollywood Bowl Group plc Half-year Results (7801O)

23/05/2018 7:00am

UK Regulatory


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TIDMBOWL

RNS Number : 7801O

Hollywood Bowl Group plc

23 May 2018

23 May 2018

Hollywood Bowl Group plc

Interim Results for the Six Months Ended 31 March 2018

STRONG REVENUE AND PROFIT GROWTH DELIVERED THROUGH SUCCESSFUL EXECUTION OF STRATEGY

Hollywood Bowl Group plc ("Hollywood Bowl" or the "Group"), the UK's market leading ten-pin bowling operator, is pleased to announce its interim results for the six month period ended 31 March 2018 ("H1 FY2018").

Financial highlights

 
                      6 months ended   6 months ended   % Movement 
                       31 March 2018    31 March 2017 
                     ---------------  ---------------  ----------- 
 Total revenues          GBP63.6m       GBP58.2m(1)       +9.3% 
 Like-for-like 
  ("LFL") revenue 
  growth (2)               4.0%             1.2%         +2.8%pts 
 Group Adj. EBITDA 
  (3)                    GBP20.7m         GBP18.2m        +13.4% 
 Group Adj. EBITDA 
  margin                  32.5%            31.3%         +1.2%pts 
 Operating Profit        GBP15.0m         GBP13.0m        +16.1% 
 Profit before 
  tax                    GBP14.6m         GBP12.4m        +17.4% 
 Earnings per 
  share                   7.85p            6.64p          +18.1% 
 Net debt                GBP7.2m          GBP13.5m        -46.7% 
 Interim ordinary 
  dividend per 
  share                   2.03p            1.80p          +12.8% 
 
 

Operational Highlights

   --     Further progress with new centre pipeline 

o Two new centres opened in H1 FY2018, which are performing in line with management's expectations, increasing the total estate to 59

o Strong pipeline bolstered with the signing of developments in exciting new leisure schemes in Swindon and Southend

   --     Centre rebrand and refurbishment programme on track, and delivering significant returns 

o One Hollywood Bowl refurbishment and two Bowlplex rebrands and refurbishments completed in H1 FY2018

o Three more rebrands planned for the second half of the year

o At least one further refurbishment planned before the financial year end

-- Successful execution of organic growth strategy continues to result in strong operating performance

o Game volumes increased 3.6 per cent. to 6.9m

o Spend per game increased 5.5 per cent. to GBP9.20

o Games per stop increased to 431 (FY2017: 356)

Stephen Burns, Chief Executive Officer of Hollywood Bowl commented:

"Hollywood Bowl has produced another strong financial performance this period due to our continued progress in delivering against our strategic goals; the acquisition and opening of new centres that complement our already very high quality portfolio, creating modern, family friendly entertainment environments, and our refurbishment programme which has continued to drive organic like-for-like growth through the constant evolution of our customer experience."

"This customer focus, combined with our disciplined capital and cost management, gives us confidence in delivering another year of progress, and reporting results in line with Board expectations."

1 During FY2017, Management conducted a review of the Group's key contracts and revenue recognition policies; as a result of this process, and IFRS 15 adoption on 1 October 2018, Management identified that certain transactions have been recognised as revenue and cost of sales in previous periods, when it is more appropriate to recognise the amounts net. Accordingly these revenues and costs of sales have been netted off in the statement of comprehensive income for the year ended 30 September 2017 ("FY2017") and the six month period to 31 March 2017 ("H1 FY2017").

2 LFL revenue is defined as total revenue excluding any new centre openings from the current financial year until they are LFL (H1 FY2018: GBP3.1m) and is used as a key measure of constant centre growth.

3 Group adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation) reflects the underlying trade of the overall business and excludes any one-off benefits (VAT rebates for prior years and dilapidations release), and costs (expenses related to a review of a strategic acquisition which was not pursued and IPO related expenses). It is management's view that these are non-recurring costs. The reconciliation to operating profit is set out in the Finance Review section of this announcement.

Enquiries:

 
 Hollywood Bowl Group                       via Tulchan 
  Steve Burns, Chief Executive Officer       Communications 
  Laurence Keen, Chief Financial Officer 
  Mat Hart, Commercial Director 
 
 
 Tulchan Communications 
  James Macey White 
  Elizabeth Snow                            +44 (0) 207 
  Roger Tejwani                              353 4200 
 
 

Notes to Editors:

Hollywood Bowl Group is the UK's largest ten-pin bowling operator, with a portfolio of 59 centres operating across the UK under the Hollywood Bowl, AMF and Bowlplex brands. The Group specialises in operating large, high quality bowling centres, predominantly located in out of town multi-use leisure parks (typically co-located with cinema and casual dining sites) and large retail parks. The centres are designed to offer a complete family entertainment experience with each centre offering at least 12 bowling lanes, on-site dining, licensed bars, and state-of-the-art family games arcades.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE REVIEW

Hollywood Bowl produced another strong financial performance in the first six months of the year. Revenues increased 9.3 per cent. to GBP63.6m driven by a combination of LFL sales growth from the core estate, contributions from the new centre openings and the positive impact of our refurbishment and rebrand programme.

We have made solid progress with our refurbishment and rebrand programme and continue to see very encouraging returns from completed sites. We successfully invested GBP0.7m rebranding two of the four remaining Bowlplex centres into Hollywood Bowl centres, with plans in place to rebrand the final two Bowlplex centres and one AMF centre in the second half of the year. Our ongoing refurbishment cycle is also progressing well with a GBP0.3m investment in the Hollywood Bowl in Bradford completed in the first half, and at least one further refurbishment scheduled for the second half of the year.

Group adjusted EBITDA grew by GBP2.5m to GBP20.7m, up 13.4 per cent. (H1 FY2017: GBP18.2m). Average centre EBITDA growth was ahead of revenue growth, increasing by 6.4 per cent. on a LFL basis demonstrating the operational leverage inherent within our business model. In the first half of the year the business generated strong free cash flows, before the payment of the FY2017 final ordinary dividend and special dividend, of GBP11.0m. The continued positive trading performance has further strengthened the balance sheet with net debt reduced to GBP7.2m (H1 FY2017: GBP13.5m).

In light of this strong performance, and the Board's confidence in the Group's future cash flows, the Board has declared an interim dividend of 2.03 pence per share, up 12.8 per cent. (H1 FY 2017 1.80p).

Growth strategy

Our growth strategy remains unchanged and we are pleased with the progress we have made during the period. Our new centre opening programme is on track and we continue to grow like-for-like revenue through the continual improvement of the existing estate and our refurbishment and rebrand programme which continues to deliver very pleasing returns.

Development of our property portfolio

We successfully rebranded two Bowlplex centres (Birmingham Broadway and Dunfermline) in the first half of the year, and are currently on track to rebrand the final two Bowlplex centres (Bristol and Branksome) in the second half of the year. The newly rebranded and refurbished Bowlplex centres continue to deliver excellent returns on investment, with the nine centres already completed showing an aggregated return of 60.2 per cent.

The refurbishment plan for the Hollywood and AMF estate is also on track, with Bradford completed during the period and, with at least one further Hollywood Bowl refurbishment and one AMF rebrand planned before the end of the financial year, we are confident of completing the guided seven to ten refurbishments/rebrands by the end of FY2018. The average return on investment from the most recent 11 refurbishments / rebrands is 55.4 per cent.

During H1 FY2018 we opened two new prime location centres. Both centres are located on leisure parks, co-located with a high performing cinema and casual dining offerings. The first was Hollywood Bowl Dagenham, a centre previously operated by Namco Funscape which was acquired as part of a redevelopment plan led by the landlord. This centre reopened in October 2017, has been well received by the local market and is trading in line with our expectations. The second centre was Hollywood Bowl Yeovil which was also acquired from the landlord and, following a total investment of GBP0.9m (GBP0.6m net of landlord contribution), opened its doors in March 2018. This centre has had a very solid first few weeks of trading, and we are confident it will perform in line with management expectations.

Our new openings pipeline has been further strengthened with centres signed for development in exciting new leisure schemes in Swindon and Southend, securing the pipeline for the next three years. We remain confident in our ability to continue to deliver on our plan of an average of two new openings a year.

Like-for-like growth

LFL sales grew 4.0 per cent. during the first half of the financial year, with all revenue streams showing sales growth on the comparative period last year.

Total spend per game grew by 5.5 per cent. in the period, up from GBP8.72 in H1 FY2017 to GBP9.20 in H1 FY2018. The impact of the dynamic pricing initiative, rolled out in August 2017, gave us the ability to continue to grow yield whilst retaining our competitive headline price. The Group remains the lowest priced of all the branded bowling operators, offering customers a great value for money leisure experience. Amusement spend per game also showed solid growth during the period, up 2.2 per cent. on the prior period, driven by the continued roll out of our play for prizes offering, new payment initiatives and the rolling refresh of the arcade product.

Following the refinements made to the Hollywood Diner menu, the roll out to all centres is progressing well, with 47 of the estate now benefiting from the new offering. The remainder of the estate will receive the new menu and required kitchen enhancements by the end of the current financial year.

Initiatives and Innovation

Following a successful trial of 'Pins on Strings' in three of our centres, we installed the new look pinsetter into the new opening in Yeovil and plan to install this into three other centres by the end of the current financial year. Early results have been encouraging, with saving in payroll, utilities and parts combining to deliver a 30.1 per cent. EBITDA return on investment. The outputs of the enlarged trial will enable further testing with regard to the longevity and reliability of the machines, and will allow us to gather more customer feedback, helping inform the longer-term strategy.

We have continued to grow our games per stop (GPS) in the rest of our estate, from 356 in September 2017 to 431 (414 excluding Pins on Strings centres) as at March 2018, with some centres in excess of 800. This is testament to the focus, training and investment that we put into our back of house processes.

Trials on payment options on both the lanes, and in the amusement areas have yielded positive results. All centres will benefit from the 'I serve' technology, enabling faster ordering and payment at the lanes with the roll out expected to be complete by the end of FY2018. This new technology will assist our sales focused operators in driving spend per game whilst delivering a higher level of service to our customers.

Focus on People

Our people are key to our success, and it is important that we maintain the culture and environment for our team to develop rewarding careers. I would like to acknowledge the fantastic efforts our team have put into delivering these results. I was delighted that at our Centre Manager conference in October 2017, we were able to recognise the outstanding performances of so many of our leaders. We are committed to the investment in our people who are true creators of positive energy, aiming to deliver a fantastic experience to every customer on every visit.

Outlook

Following the good first half of FY2018, I am confident this momentum will carry into the second half of the year. We will continue to invest in all areas across the business which, coupled with our sustainable organic growth strategy, means the Board is confident in the outlook of the business. We are on track to meet Board expectations for the full year, and I am encouraged by the progress we are making.

Stephen Burns

Chief Executive Officer

23 May 2018

FINANCE REVIEW

 
                           31 March  31 March  % Movement 
                               2018      2017 
                            GBP'000   GBP'000 
-------------------------  --------  --------  ---------- 
Total number of centres          59        55          +4 
-------------------------  --------  --------  ---------- 
Number of games played         6.9m      6.7m       +3.6% 
-------------------------  --------  --------  ---------- 
Revenue(1)                 GBP63.6m  GBP58.2m       +9.3% 
-------------------------  --------  --------  ---------- 
Gross profit margin           86.3%     86.4%     -0.1%pt 
-------------------------  --------  --------  ---------- 
Group adjusted EBITDA(2)   GBP20.7m  GBP18.2m      +13.4% 
-------------------------  --------  --------  ---------- 
Group operating profit     GBP15.0m  GBP13.0m      +16.1% 
-------------------------  --------  --------  ---------- 
Net debt                    GBP7.2m  GBP13.5m      -46.7% 
-------------------------  --------  --------  ---------- 
Group adjusted operating 
 cash flow(3)              GBP14.9m  GBP14.1m       +5.4% 
-------------------------  --------  --------  ---------- 
Group expansionary                                      - 
 capital expenditure        GBP2.8m   GBP2.8m 
-------------------------  --------  --------  ---------- 
 

1 During FY2017, Management conducted a review of the Group's key contracts and revenue recognition policies; as a result of this process, and IFRS 15, adoption on 1 October 2018, Management identified that certain transactions have been recognised as revenue and cost of sales in previous periods, when it is more appropriate to recognise the amounts net. Accordingly these revenues and costs of sales have been netted off in the statement of comprehensive income for the year ended 30 September 2017 ("FY2017") and the six month period to 31 March 2017 ("H1 FY2017").

2 Group adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation) reflects the underlying trade of the overall business and excludes any exceptional costs as noted in this section. It is our view that these are non-recurring costs.

3 Group adjusted operating cash flow is calculated as Group adjusted EBITDA less working capital, taxation and maintenance capital expenditure.

Following a record year in FY2017, we are pleased to have delivered a strong first half set of results, with revenue growth of 9.3 per cent. and Group adjusted EBITDA growth of 13.4 per cent.

This growth has contributed to a GBP2.0m increase in operating profit to GBP15.0m, representing an increase of 16.1 per cent. on the same period last year and an improvement of 1.3 percentage points to our operating profit margin at 23.6 per cent driven by like-for -like sale growth and only marginal increases in costs.

Growth drivers

We are extremely proud to have delivered a strong sales performance over the six months to 31 March 2018 and continue to be encouraged by the performance of our refurbished, rebranded and new centres, as well as the growth seen in the core estate.

The continued strength of the Group is reflected in its revenue and profit performance for the first half compared to the same period in the prior year. The total 9.3 per cent. revenue growth has been driven through like-for-like revenues growing at 4.0 per cent. as well as 5.3 per cent. growth from new openings. Group revenue for the first half was GBP63.6m, up from GBP58.2m in the previous period(1) .

Game volumes grew to 6.9m (3.6 per cent. up on the prior period). Total spend per game grew by 5.5 per cent. as customers continued to spend more across all areas of the business during their visits, and we continued to see benefit from our dynamic pricing initiative, which was rolled out in August 2017.

During the first half, we have continued with our investment strategy with transformational refurbishments in three centres, including two Bowlplex rebrands and refurbishments in Dunfermline and Birmingham. These continue to realise market leading returns on capital employed above our 33 per cent. hurdle rate. We will complete the final two Bowlplex rebrands during the second half of this financial year, as well as undertake at least one further Hollywood Bowl refurbishment and one AMF rebrand.

Like-for-like revenue is defined as total revenue excluding any new centre openings (H1 FY2018: GBP3.1m) and is used as a key measure of constant centre growth.

Gross margin

Gross profit margin was flat on a like-for-like basis, whilst the impact of the new centre sales mix resulted in overall group gross profit margin declining by 0.1 per cent. to 86.3 per cent. compared to the prior period. Gross profit has increased by 9.1% to GBP54.9m for the period to 31 March 2018.

Administrative expenses

Administrative expenses were GBP39.9m, up 6.7 per cent. on the corresponding period in the prior year.

The majority of this increase is split between new centres at GBP1.8m, depreciation of GBP0.4m, while constant centre costs increased by only GBP0.4m. The largest cost within administration expenses is property costs, of which rent accounts for GBP7.0m. Total property costs increased by GBP0.9m due to an increase in the number of centres we operate which accounted for GBP0.8m, as well as a small increase of GBP0.1m (0.7 per cent.) in constant centres. Total centre employee costs were GBP11.7m for the six month period to 31 March 2018, an increase of GBP1.1m on an overall group basis on the same period in the prior year. On a constant centre basis, the increase was just over GBP0.3m (2.8 per cent.), driven by the increase in national minimum and living wage, as well as other cost associated with wage inflation.

Corporate costs decreased slightly from GBP5.2m to GBP5.1m. This was largely due to reduced costs in relation to professional fees on rent reviews and lease re-gears, as well as lower central marketing costs versus the prior period. As a percentage of total sales, total corporate costs represented 8.0 per cent. in H1 FY2018, against 9.0 per cent. in H1 FY2017.

Group adjusted EBITDA

Group adjusted EBITDA increased by 13.4 per cent. during the period mainly due to the LFL revenue growth in the core estate through refurbishments and continued spend on maintenance capital, as well as the performance of the five new centres opened since March 2017.

Constant centre EBITDA continued to grow, and increased by 6.4 per cent. compared to the prior period. Depreciation increased to GBP5.3m in the first half, largely as a result of the new centres. As a percentage of total sales, depreciation represented 8.3 per cent. in H1 FY2018, against 8.4 per cent. in H1 FY2017.

 
                       31 March  31 March 
                           2018      2017 
                        GBP'000   GBP'000 
---------------------  --------  -------- 
Operating profit         15,044    12,957 
Depreciation              5,304     4,866 
Amortisation                258       265 
Loss on property, 
 plant and equipment 
 and software                53        15 
---------------------  --------  -------- 
EBITDA                   20,659    18,103 
Exceptional items             -       111 
Adjusted EBITDA          20,659    18,214 
---------------------  --------  -------- 
 

Management use EBITDA adjusted for exceptional items (Group adjusted EBITDA) as a key performance measure of the business.

Finance costs

Finance costs decreased from GBP0.6m to GBP0.5m as a result of margin reductions in line with the bank quarterly covenant tests. The Group currently has gross debt of GBP29.2m with the next debt repayment of GBP0.7m due in June 2018. The Group also has an undrawn revolving credit facility of GBP5.0m and capital expenditure facility of GBP5.0m.

Taxation

The Group has incurred a tax charge of GBP2.8m for the first half compared to GBP2.4m in the comparable period in the prior year.

Earnings

Profit before tax for the year was GBP14.6m which was higher than the comparable period in the prior year by GBP2.2m as a result of the factors discussed above.

The Group delivered an increased profit after tax of GBP11.8m (H1 FY2017: GBP9.9m) and basic and adjusted earnings per share was 7.85 pence (H1 FY2017: 6.64 pence).

Dividend

The Directors have declared an interim dividend of 2.03 pence per share. The ex-dividend date is 14 June 2018, with a record date of 15 June 2018 and payment date of 10 July 2018.

The Group operates a highly cash generative business model which, combined with lower net capital expenditure on new sites and post all refurbishment spend, still leaves the Group in a strong financial position which will allow the Board to continue to execute on its capital allocation priorities.

Cash flows and Net Debt

Group adjusted operating cash flow was GBP14.9m, with growth of GBP0.8m delivered through an increase in Group adjusted EBITDA of GBP2.5m offset by a small movement in working capital and higher corporation tax paid in the first half due to higher profits in the year to 30 September 2017 against the prior year.

 
                                       31 March  31 March 
                                           2018      2017 
                                        GBP'000   GBP'000 
-------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Group Adjusted EBITDA                    20,659    18,214 
Movement in working capital               (238)       955 
Maintenance capital expenditure(1)      (3,104)   (4,104) 
Taxation                                (2,463)     (976) 
-------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Adjusted Operating cash flow 
 (OCF)(2)                                14,854    14,089 
Adjusted OCF Conversion                   71.9%     77.4% 
-------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Expansionary capital expenditure        (2,820)   (2,802) 
Exceptional items                             -   (3,223) 
Net Interest paid                         (228)     (459) 
Cash flows from financing activities      (750)         - 
Dividends paid                         (10,920)     (285) 
-------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Net Cash flow                               136     7,320 
-------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 

1 In this table, maintenance capital expenditure includes amusements capital and amusement disposal proceeds.

2 Adjusted operating cash flow is calculated as Group adjusted EBITDA less working capital and maintenance capital expenditure. This represents a good measure for the cash generated by the business after taking into account all necessary maintenance capital expenditure to ensure the routine running of the business. This excludes one-off exceptional items and net interest paid.

Strong cash generation in the past twelve months has resulted in a decrease in net debt to GBP7.2m.

Capital expenditure

Total capital expenditure was down 14.2 per cent. in the corresponding period in the prior year, to GBP5.9m. This decrease was driven, in the main, by the lower spend on new centres. The two new centres this year were both previously trading centres which were obtained at nil cost, with all spend going into the refurbishment and rebrands (GBP0.9m). Both units also attracted landlord contributions: Yeovil a GBP0.3m capital contribution; whilst Dagenham was in the form of a 12 month rent free for an equivalent amount. We continued on our refurbishment and rebrand programme, and expenditure increased by GBP1.0m in this half, compared with H1 FY2017, to GBP1.9m, due to timing.

Brexit

Although we do not consider Brexit to be a principal risk for the business, we continue to follow developments and consider possible implications for Hollywood Bowl. As a UK focused business, we have low exposure to currency movements, our supply chain is mostly UK based and the proportion of our people who are non-British EU is low.

Going Concern

As stated in note 2 to the Interim Financial Statements, the Directors are satisfied that the Group has sufficient resources to continue in operation for the foreseeable future, a period of at least 12 months from the date of this report. Therefore, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the financial statements.

Laurence Keen

Chief Financial Officer

23 May 2018

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income

For the six months ended 31 March 2018

 
                                                           Restated 
                                           Six months    Six months                           Year ended 
                                             ended 31      ended 31                         30 September 
                                           March 2018    March 2017                                 2017 
                                            Unaudited     Unaudited                              Audited 
                                  Note        GBP'000       GBP'000                              GBP'000 
 
Revenue                                        63,638       58,230*                              113,968 
Cost of sales                                 (8,717)      (7,892)*                             (15,349) 
                                             ________      ________                             ________ 
Gross profit                                   54,921        50,338                               98,619 
Administrative expenses                      (39,877)      (37,462)                             (76,498) 
Other income                                        -            81                                   80 
                                             ________      ________                             ________ 
Operating profit                               15,044        12,957                               22,201 
 
Underlying operating 
 profit                                        15,044        13,068                               22,204 
Exceptional items                   4               -         (111)                                  (3) 
-------------------------------  -------  -----------  ------------  ----------------------------------- 
 
Finance income                                     10             3                                   12 
Finance expenses                                (492)         (583)                              (1,158) 
Movement in derivative 
 financial instrument 
 
 Movement in derivative 
 financial instruments                              -            31                                   55 
                                             ________      ________                             ________ 
Profit before tax                              14,562        12,408                               21,110 
Tax expense                         6         (2,792)       (2,441)                              (2,848) 
                                             ________      ________                             ________ 
Profit for the year 
 attributable to equity 
 shareholders                                  11,770         9,967                               18,262 
Other comprehensive 
 income for the period                              -             -                                    - 
                                             ________      ________                             ________ 
Total comprehensive 
 income attributable 
 to equity shareholders                        11,770         9,967                               18,262 
                                             ________      ________                              _______ 
 
Earnings per share 
 (based on weighted 
 average number of shares)          5           Pence                Pence                         Pence 
Basic                                            7.85                6.64                          12.17 
Diluted                                          7.83                6.64                          12.17 
Adjusted earnings per 
 share (based on weighted 
 average number of shares)          5 
Basic                                            7.85                6.73                          12.17 
Diluted                                          7.83                6.73                          12.16 
 
  Weighted average number 
  of shares in issue 
  for period (number)                     150,252,883             150,016,654                150,104,367 
 
 
* Additional information on the restatement is available in note 
 2. 
 
 
 
                                                         Six months           Six months      Year ended 
                                                           ended 31             ended 31    30 September 
                                                         March 2018           March 2017            2017 
                                                          Unaudited            Unaudited         Audited 
                                                            GBP'000              GBP'000         GBP'000 
 Reconciliation of operating 
  profit to Group Adjusted 
  EBITDA 
 Operating profit                                            15,044               12,957          22,201 
 Depreciation of property, 
  plant and equipment                        7                5,304                4,866           9,990 
 Amortisation of intangible 
  assets                                   8                    258                  265             540 
 Exceptional items                           4                    -                  111               3 
 Loss on disposal of 
  property, plant and 
  equipment and software                 7, 8                    53                   15             640 
                                                            _______              _______         _______ 
 Group Adjusted EBITDA                                       20,659               18,214          33,374 
                                                            _______              _______         _______ 
 
 
   Group Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP metric used by management and 
   is not an IFRS disclosure. 
 
 

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

As at 31 March 2018

 
                                               31 March             31 March  30 September 
                                                   2018                 2017          2017 
                                              Unaudited            Unaudited       Audited 
                                Note            GBP'000              GBP'000       GBP'000 
ASSETS 
Non-current assets 
Property, plant and 
 equipment                      7                41,903               38,599        39,709 
Intangible assets               8                78,770               79,048        78,867 
                                                _______              _______       _______ 
                                                120,673              117,647       118,576 
Current assets 
Cash and cash equivalents                        22,030               16,544        21,894 
Trade and other receivables                       6,579                6,162         7,144 
Inventories                                       1,352                1,212         1,189 
                                                _______              _______       _______ 
                                                 29,961               23,918        30,227 
                                                _______              _______       _______ 
Total assets                                    150,634              141,565       148,803 
                                                _______              _______       _______ 
LIABILITIES 
Current liabilities 
Trade and other payables                         16,390               13,510        16,857 
Loans and borrowings            10                1,380                  630         1,380 
Corporation tax payable                           2,975                2,440         2,461 
                                                _______              _______       _______ 
                                                 20,745               16,580        20,698 
Non-current liabilities 
Other payables                                    7,837                6,129         6,145 
Loans & borrowings              10               27,453               28,833        28,143 
Deferred tax liabilities                            560                2,289           746 
Accruals and provisions                           3,283                3,665         3,308 
Derivative financial 
 instruments                    11                    -                   24             - 
                                                _______              _______       _______ 
                                                 39,133               40,940        38,342 
                                                _______              _______       _______ 
Total liabilities                                59,878               57,520        59,040 
                                                _______              _______       _______ 
NET ASSETS                                       90,756               84,045        89,763 
                                                _______              _______       _______ 
Equity attributable 
 to shareholders 
Share capital                                     1,500                1,500         1,500 
Merger reserve                                 (49,897)             (49,897)      (49,897) 
Retained earnings                               139,153              132,442       138,160 
                                                _______              _______       _______ 
TOTAL EQUITY                                     90,756               84,045        89,763 
                                                _______              _______       _______ 
 

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity

For the six months ended 31 March 2018

 
                                                                          Capital 
                                          Share     Share     Merger   redemption   Retained 
                                        capital   premium    reserve      reserve   earnings      Total 
                                        GBP'000   GBP'000    GBP'000      GBP'000    GBP'000    GBP'000 
 
Equity at 30 September 2016 
 (audited)                               71,512    51,832   (49,897)           99        817     74,363 
Share capital re-organisation          (70,012)  (51,832)          -         (99)    121,943          - 
Dividends paid (Note 9)                       -         -          -            -      (285)      (285) 
Profit for the period                         -         -          -            -      9,967      9,967 
                                       ________  ________   ________     ________   ________   ________ 
Equity at 31 March 2017 (unaudited)       1,500         -   (49,897)            -    132,442     84,045 
Dividends paid (Note 9)                       -         -          -            -    (2,700)    (2,700) 
Share based payments (Note 
 12)                                          -         -          -            -        123        123 
Profit for the period                         -         -          -            -      8,295      8,295 
                                        _______  ________   ________     ________   ________   ________ 
Equity as at 30 September 2017 
 (audited)                                1,500         -   (49,897)            -    138,160     89,763 
Dividends paid (Note 9)                       -         -          -            -   (10,920)   (10,920) 
Share based payments (Note 
 12)                                          -         -          -            -        143        143 
Profit for the period                         -         -          -            -     11,770     11,770 
                                       ________  ________   ________     ________   ________   ________ 
Equity as at 31 March 2018 
 (unaudited)                              1,500         -   (49,897)            -    139,153     90,756 
                                        _______   ______      ______      _______    _______    _______ 
 
 
 

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

For the six months ended 31 March 2018

 
                                                                     Year 
                                    Six months   Six months         ended 
                                      ended 31     ended 31   30September 
                                    March 2018   March 2017          2017 
                                     Unaudited    Unaudited       Audited 
                                       GBP'000      GBP'000       GBP'000 
Cash flows from operating 
 activities 
Profit before tax                       14,562       12,408        21,110 
Adjusted by: 
Depreciation and impairment              5,304        4,866         9,990 
Amortisation of intangible 
 assets                                    258          265           540 
Net interest expense                       481          580         1,145 
Loss on disposal of property, 
 plant 
 and equipment                              53           15           640 
Movement on derivative 
 financial instrument                        -         (31)          (55) 
Share-based payments (Note 
 12)                                       143            -           123 
                                       _______      _______       _______ 
Operating profit before 
 working capital changes                20,801       18,103        33,493 
Increase in inventories                  (163)        (194)         (171) 
Decrease in trade and other 
 receivables                               565        3,472         2,490 
Decrease in payables and 
 provisions                              (783)      (5,435)       (3,035) 
                                       _______      _______       _______ 
Cash inflow generated from 
 operations                             20,420       15,946        32,777 
Interest received                           10            3            12 
Income tax paid - corporation 
 tax                                   (2,463)        (976)       (2,905) 
Interest paid                            (238)        (462)         (975) 
                                       _______      _______       _______ 
Net cash inflow from operating 
activities                              17,729       14,511        28,909 
Investing activities 
Purchase of property, plant 
 and equipment                         (6,098)      (6,960)      (13,551) 
Purchase of intangible 
 assets                                  (161)         (85)         (196) 
Sale of assets                             336          139           493 
                                       _______      _______       _______ 
Net cash used in investing 
 activities                            (5,923)      (6,906)      (13,254) 
                                       _______      _______       _______ 
Cash flows from financing 
 activities 
Repayment of bank loan                   (750)            -             - 
Dividends paid                        (10,920)        (285)       (2,985) 
                                       _______      _______       _______ 
Net cash flows used in 
 financing activities                 (11,670)        (285)       (2,985) 
                                       _______      _______       _______ 
Net change in cash and 
 cash equivalents for the 
 period                                    136        7,320        12,670 
                                       _______      _______       _______ 
Cash and cash equivalents 
 at the beginning of the 
 period                                 21,894        9,224         9,224 
                                       _______      _______       _______ 
Cash and cash equivalents 
 at the end of the period               22,030       16,544        21,894 
                                       _______      _______       _______ 
 
 

Notes to the condensed consolidated interim financial statements

1. General information

The Directors of Hollywood Bowl Group plc (together with its subsidiaries, the "Group" or "HWB Group") present their interim report and the unaudited financial statements for the six months ended 31 March 2018 ('Interim Financial Statements').

HWB Group is incorporated and domiciled in England and Wales, under company registration number 10229630. The registered office of the company is Focus 31, West Wing, Cleveland Road, Hemel Hempstead, HP2 7BW, United Kingdom.

The interim Financial Statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 23 May 2018.

The financial information for the six months ended 31 March 2018 has been reviewed by KPMG, the Company's external auditor. Their report is included within these condensed consolidated interim financial statements.

The Group's last annual audited financial statements for the year ended 30 September 2017 have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by the European Union, and these Interim Financial statements should be read in conjunction with them.

The comparative figures for the year ended 30 September 2017 are an abridged version of the Group's last annual financial statements and, together with other financial information contained in these interim results, do not constitute statutory financial statements of the Group as defined in section 434 of the Companies Act 2006. A copy of the statutory accounts for the year ended 30 September 2017 has been delivered to the Registrar of Companies. The external auditor has reported on those accounts: their report was unqualified, did not draw attention to any matters by way of emphasis and did not contain a statement under s498 (2) or (3) of the Companies Act 2006.

2. Basis of preparation

The Interim Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with IAS 34, 'Interim Financial Reporting' as endorsed by the European Union and the Disclosures and Transparency Rules of the United Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority. They do not include all of the information required for a complete set of IFRS financial statements. However, selected explanatory notes are included to explain events and transactions that are significant to an understanding of the changes in the Group's financial position and performance since the last financial statements.

The Interim Financial Statements are presented in Pounds Sterling, rounded to the nearest thousand pounds, except where otherwise indicated; and under the historical cost convention as modified through the recognition of financial liabilities at fair value through profit and loss.

The accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the Interim Financial Statements are consistent with those applied in the presentation of the Group's consolidated financial statements for the year ended 30 September 2017. A number of new European Union endorsed standards and amendments to existing standards are effective for periods beginning on or after 1 October 2017. However, none of these have a material, if any, impact on the annual or condensed interim consolidated financial statements of the Group in the year ending 30 September 2018.

The Group's principal activities are that of the operation of ten-pin bowling centres as well as the development of new centres and other associated activities. It is managed as one entity and management have consequently determined that there is only one operating segment. All revenue arises in and all non-current assets are located in the United Kingdom. The Group's operations are not considered to be seasonal or cyclical in nature.

Going concern

The Directors have, at the time of approving these interim financial statements, a reasonable expectation that the Company and the Group have adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future.

Accounting estimates and judgements

In preparing these interim financial statements, management has made 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.

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 applied to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 30 September 2017.

Restatement of the profit and loss account

Management conducted a review of its key contracts and revenue recognition policies; as a result of this process, and IFRS 15 adoption on 1 October 2018, identified that certain transactions have been recognised as revenue and cost of sales in previous periods, when it is more appropriate to recognise the amounts net.

Accordingly, these revenues and cost of sales have been netted off in the profit and loss account for the period ended 31 March 2017 and year ended 30 September 2017. Further, considering its significant impact on prior period financial statements, they have been restated as below:

It should be noted there is no impact on gross profit, operating profit, profit after tax, net assets or net cash flow.

 
                     Restated    Original 
                     31 March    31 March 
                         2017        2017 
                       GBP000      GBP000 
 Revenue               58,230      59,289 
 Cost of sales        (7,892)     (8,951) 
                      _______     _______ 
 Gross profit          50,338      50,338 
                      _______     _______ 
 

Standards issued not yet effective

At the date of authorisation of this financial information, certain new standards, amendments and interpretations to existing standards applicable to the Group have been published but are not yet effective, and have not been adopted early by the Group. The impact of these standards is not expected to be material. The adoption of IFRS15 will not require any further adjustments.

3. Segmental reporting

Management consider that the Group consists of a single segment, and operates within the UK. No single customer provides more than 10 per cent. of the Group's revenue.

Within this one operating segment there are multiple revenue streams which consist of the following:

 
                              Restated 
                   31 March   31 March 
                       2018       2017 
                     GBP000     GBP000 
 
Bowling              32,254     28,812 
Food and drink       18,033     16,644 
Amusements           13,149     12,453 
Other                   202        321 
 
                     63,638     58,230 
                    _______    _______ 
 

4. Exceptional items

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

 
                              Six months   Six months     Year ended 
                                ended 31     ended 31   30 September 
                              March 2018   March 2017           2017 
                               Unaudited    Unaudited        Audited 
                                 GBP'000      GBP'000        GBP'000 
 
VAT rebate(1)                          -           80             80 
IPO related expenses(2)                -        (102)          (102) 
Non-recurring expenditure 
 on strategic projects(3)              -         (89)          (100) 
Bank charges(4)                        -            -          (116) 
Dilapidations provision(5)             -            -            235 
                                 _______      _______        _______ 
                                       -        (111)            (3) 
                                 _______      _______        _______ 
 

(1) The Group was able to make a one-off retrospective reclaim in respect of overpaid VAT relating to customers who were 'no-shows' and children's shoe hire. This VAT rebate relates to a rebate for FY2012 to FY2016. This has been classified as other income in the condensed consolidated statement of comprehensive income. The amount recognised in FY2017 relates to a historic claim for no shows from FY2015 to FY2016.

(2) Costs associated with the IPO of Hollywood Bowl Group plc on the London Stock Exchange on 21 September 2016. Costs include legal and accounting transaction fees along with corporate banking costs.

(3) Costs (comprising legal and professional fees) relating to review of a strategic acquisition which was not pursued.

(4) Card payment processing fees relating to prior periods that were not previously invoiced.

(5) The release of a dilapidations provision for a site that will be exited in FY2018 with no associated costs expected.

5. Earnings per share

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the profit to equity holders of Hollywood Bowl Group plc by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the year, excluding invested shares held pursuant to a Long Term Incentive Plan (note 13).

Diluted earnings per share is calculated by adjusting the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding to assume conversion of all dilutive potential ordinary shares. During the period ended 31 March 2018, the Group had potentially dilutive shares in the form of unvested shares pursuant to a Long Term Incentive Plan (note 13).

 
                             Six months   Six months     Year ended 
                               ended 31     ended 31   30 September 
                             March 2018   March 2017           2017 
                              Unaudited    Unaudited        Audited 
Basic and diluted 
Profit for the year 
 after tax (GBP'000)             11,770        9,967         18,262 
Basic weighted average 
 number of shares in 
 issue for the period 
 (number)                   150,000,000  150,000,000    150,000,000 
Adjusted for share awards       252,883       16,654        104,367 
                                _______      _______        _______ 
Diluted weighted average 
 number of shares           150,252,883  150,016,654    150,104,367 
                                _______      _______        _______ 
Basic earnings per share 
 (pence)                           7.85         6.64          12.17 
Diluted earnings per 
 share (pence)                     7.83         6.64          12.17 
                                _______      _______        _______ 
 

Adjusted underlying earnings per share

Adjusted earnings per share are calculated by dividing adjusted underlying earnings after tax by the weighted average number of shares issued during the year.

 
                               Six months   Six months     Year ended 
                                 ended 31     ended 31   30 September 
                               March 2018   March 2017           2017 
                                Unaudited    Unaudited        Audited 
Adjusted underlying 
 earnings after tax (before 
 exceptional costs and 
 shareholder interest) 
 (GBP'000)                         11,770       10,090         18,256 
Basic adjusted earnings 
 per share (pence)                   7.85         6.73          12.17 
Diluted adjusted earnings 
 per share (pence)                   7.83         6.73          12.16 
                                  _______      _______        _______ 
 

Adjusted underlying earnings after tax is calculated as follows:

 
                           Six months   Six months     Year ended 
                             ended 31     ended 31   30 September 
                           March 2018   March 2017           2017 
                            Unaudited    Unaudited        Audited 
                              GBP'000      GBP'000        GBP'000 
Profit for the year 
 before tax                    14,562       12,408         21,110 
Exceptional items (Note 
 4)                                 -          111              3 
                             ________     ________       ________ 
Adjusted underlying 
 profit before taxation        14,562       12,519         21,113 
Less taxation                 (2,792)      (2,429)        (2,857) 
                             ________     ________       ________ 
Adjusted underlying 
 earnings after tax            11,770       10,090         18,256 
                             ________      _______        _______ 
 

6. Taxation

 
 
 
                             Six months   Six months     Year ended 
                               ended 31     ended 31   30 September 
                             March 2018   March 2017           2017 
  The tax expense is as       Unaudited    Unaudited        Audited 
  follows:                      GBP'000      GBP'000        GBP'000 
- UK Corporation tax              2,978        2,714          4,667 
- Adjustments in respect 
 of previous periods                  -        (332)          (335) 
                               ________     ________       ________ 
Total current tax                 2,978        2,382          4,332 
Deferred tax: 
Origination and reversal 
 of temporary differences         (187)           59          (820) 
Adjustments in respect 
 of prior years                       1            -          (686) 
Effects of changes in 
 tax rates                            -            -             22 
                               ________     ________       ________ 
                                  (186)           59        (1,484) 
                               ________     ________       ________ 
Total tax expense                 2,792        2,441          2,848 
                               ________      _______        _______ 
 
 

Factors affecting current tax charge:

The income tax expense was recognised based on management's best estimate of the weighted average annual income tax rate expected for the full financial year of 20%, applied to the profit before tax for the half year ended 31 March 2018. The effective tax rate has increased from 13% for the year ended 30 September 2017 to 20% for the six months ended 31 March 2018. This is due to the adjustment in respect of prior periods for current and deferred tax in the year end 30 September 2017.

The net deferred tax liability recognised at 31 March 2018 was GBP560,000 (31 March 2017: GBP2,289,000; 30 September 2017: GBP746,000). This comprised deferred tax assets relating to temporary differences and depreciation in excess of capital allowances of GBP1,071,000 (31 March 2017: GBP9,000; 30 September 2017: GBP956,000) and deferred tax liabilities in relation to accelerated capital allowances, ineligible items on acquisition, capital gains and acquired intangible assets totalling GBP1,631,000 (31 March 2017: GBP2,298,000; 30 September 2017: GBP1,702,000).

 
                                                             Plant, 
                                    Long       Short      machinery 
                               leasehold   leasehold   and fixtures 
                                property    property   and fittings     Total 
                                 GBP'000     GBP'000        GBP'000   GBP'000 
Cost: 
At 1 October 2016                  1,224      10,349         39,767    51,340 
Additions                             27       5,921          7,603    13,551 
Disposals                              -       (950)        (4,425)   (5,375) 
                                ________    ________       ________  ________ 
At 30 September 
 2017 (audited)                    1,251      15,320         42,945    59,516 
 
Additions                              -       1,749          6,138     7,887 
Disposals                              -         (9)        (2,648)   (2,657) 
                                ________    ________       ________  ________ 
At 31 March 2018 
 (unaudited)                       1,251      17,060         46,435    64,746 
                                ________    ________       ________  ________ 
Accumulated depreciation: 
At 1 October 2016                    110       3,311         10,655    14,076 
Depreciation charge                   49       1,969          7,972     9,990 
Disposals                              -       (697)        (3,562)   (4,259) 
                                ________    ________       ________  ________ 
At 30 September 
 2017 (audited)                      159       4,583         15,065    19,807 
Depreciation charge                   24         955          4,325     5,304 
Disposals                              -         (6)        (2,262)   (2,268) 
                                ________    ________       ________  ________ 
At 31 March 2018 
 (unaudited)                         183       5,532         17,128    22,843 
                                ________    ________       ________  ________ 
Net book value 
At 31 March 2018 
 (unaudited)                       1,068      11,528         29,307    41,903 
At 30 September 
 2017 (audited)                    1,092      10,737         27,880    39,709 
 
 

7. Property, plant and equipment

Outstanding capital commitments totalled GBP400,000 (31 March 2017: GBP1,023,000; 30 September 2017: GBP963,000).

8. Intangible assets

 
                             Goodwill     Brand  Trademark  Software     Total 
                              GBP'000   GBP'000    GBP'000   GBP'000   GBP'000 
Cost 
At 1 October 2016              75,034     3,360        802     1,040    80,236 
Additions                           -         -          -       196       196 
Disposals                           -         -          -      (65)      (65) 
                             ________  ________   ________  ________  ________ 
At 30 September 
 2017 (audited)                75,034     3,360        802     1,171    80,367 
Additions                           -         -          -       161       161 
Disposals                           -         -          -       (2)       (2) 
                             ________  ________   ________  ________  ________ 
At 31 March 2018 
 (unaudited)                   75,034     3,360        802     1,330    80,526 
                             ________  ________   ________  ________  ________ 
Accumulated amortisation 
 and impairment 
 losses 
At 1 October 2016                   -       348        116       544     1,008 
Amortisation charge                 -       168         51       321       540 
Disposals                           -         -          -      (48)      (48) 
                             ________  ________   ________  ________  ________ 
At 30 September 
 2017 (audited)                     -       516        167       817     1,500 
 
Amortisation charge                 -        84         25       149       258 
Disposals                           -         -          -       (2)       (2) 
                             ________  ________   ________  ________  ________ 
At 31 March 2018 
 (unaudited)                        -       600        192       964     1,756 
                             ________  ________   ________  ________  ________ 
Net book value 
At 31 March 2018 
 (unaudited)                   75,034     2,760        610       366    78,770 
At 30 September 
 2017 (audited)                75,034     2,844        635       354    78,867 
 

9. Dividends

The following dividends were declared and paid by the Group

 
                            Six months   Six months     Year ended 
                              ended 31     ended 31   30 September 
                            March 2018   March 2017           2017 
                             Unaudited    Unaudited        Audited 
                               GBP'000      GBP'000        GBP'000 
Final dividend year 
 ended 30 September 2016 
 - 0.19p per ordinary 
 share                               -          285            285 
Interim dividend year 
 ended 30 September 2017 
 - 1.8p per ordinary 
 share                               -            -          2,700 
Final dividend year 
 ended 30 September 2017 
 - 3.95p per ordinary 
 share                           5,925            -              - 
Special dividend year 
 ended 30 September 2017 
 - 3.33p per ordinary 
 share                           4,995            -              - 
                              ________      _______        _______ 
                                10,920          285          2,985 
                              ________      _______        _______ 
 

10. Loans and borrowings

 
                        31 March    31 March  30 September 
                            2018        2017          2017 
                       Unaudited   Unaudited       Audited 
                         GBP'000     GBP'000       GBP'000 
Current 
Bank loan                  1,380         630         1,380 
                        ________    ________      ________ 
Borrowings (less 
 than 1 year)              1,380         630         1,380 
                        ________    ________      ________ 
Non-current 
Bank loan                 27,453      28,833        28,143 
                        ________    ________      ________ 
Borrowings (greater 
 than 1 year)             27,453      28,833        28,143 
                        ________    ________      ________ 
Total borrowings          28,833      29,463        29,523 
                        ________    ________      ________ 
 

The bank loans are secured by a fixed and floating charge over all assets.

On 21 September 2016, the Group entered into a GBP30m facility with Lloyds Bank plc. This facility is due for repayment in instalments over a five year period up to the expiry date of 20 September 2021. The first repayment of GBP0.75m was made as at 31 December 2017, and subsequently will be repaid in 6-monthly instalments up to 31 December 2020. The remaining balance of GBP24.75m will be repayable at the expiry date of 20 September 2021. In addition, the Group has an undrawn GBP5m revolving credit facility and undrawn GBP5m capex facility. All loans carry interest at LIBOR plus a margin, which varies in accordance with the ratio of net debt divided by EBITDA and cash flow cover. The margin at 31 March 2018 is 1.75 per cent. (31 March 2017 and 30 September 2017: 2.25 per cent.).

11. Financial Instruments

 
                          31 March    31 March  30 September 
                              2018        2017          2017 
                         Unaudited   Unaudited       Audited 
                           GBP'000     GBP'000       GBP'000 
Financial liabilities 
Interest rate swap               -          24             - 
                           _______     _______       _______ 
 

The interest rate swap was classified as level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of interest rate swap contracts are calculated by management based on external valuations received from the Group's bankers and are based on anticipated future interest rate yields.

The Group entered into the following interest rate contract with the following terms:

 
 Trade                        Fixed      Notional      Start 
  date                Type     rate       amount        date       End date 
 03/12/2014        Swap         1.082%   8,000,000   03/12/2014   30/09/2017 
 

Fair value hierarchy

IFRS 7 requires fair value measurements to be recognised using a fair value hierarchy that reflects the significance of the inputs used in the value measurements.

Level 1: inputs are quoted prices in active markets.

Level 2: a valuation that uses observable inputs for the asset or liability other than quoted prices in active markets.

Level 3: a valuation using unobservable inputs i.e. a valuation technique.

There were no transfers between levels throughout the periods under review.

12. Long term employee incentive costs

The Group had the following share based payment arrangements in operation during the period:

a) The Hollywood Bowl Group plc Long Term Incentive Plan 2017

b) The Hollywood Bowl Group plc Long Term Incentive Plan 2018

c) The Hollywood Bowl Group plc Save-As-You-Earn Scheme 2018

The Group recognised a total charge of GBP143,000 in the 6 months ended 31 March 2018 (31 March 2017: GBP18,000, 30 September 2017: GBP123,000) in respect of the Group's share based payment arrangements and related employer's national insurance of GBP20,000 (31 March 2017: GBP2,000, 30 September 2017: GBP17,000).

Long Term Incentive Plan

HWB Group plc operates a Long Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) for certain key management. In accordance with IFRS 2 Share Based Payments, the value of the awards is measured at fair value at the date of the grant. The fair value is written off on a straight-line basis over the vesting period, based on management's estimate of the number of shares that will eventually vest. In accordance with the LTIP scheme outlined in the Group's Remuneration Policy (Annual Report FY17), the vesting of these awards is conditional upon the achievement of an EPS target set at the time of grant and measured at the end of a 3 year period ending 30 September 2019 and 30 September 2020.

During the six months ended 31 March 2017, 428,113 share awards were granted under the LTIP. For this grant, the Group recognised a charge of GBP107,059 (31 March 2017: GBP18,090, 30 September 2017 GBP122,503) and related employer national insurance of GBP14,774 (31 March 2017: GBP2,496, 30 September 2017: GBP16,905).

During the six months ended 31 March 2018, 349,087 share awards were granted under the LTIP. For this grant, the Group recognised a charge of GBP30,125 (31 March 2017 and 30 September 2017: GBPnil) and related employer national insurance of GBP4,157 (31 March 2017 and 30 September 2017: GBPnil).

Save-As-You-Earn Plan

On 1 February 2018 HWB Group plc launched a Save-As-You-Earn plan (SAYE), available to all employees of the Group, for a term of 3 years.

In accordance with IFRS 2 Share Based Payments, the value of the awards are measured at fair value at the date of the grant. The fair value is expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period, based on management's estimate of the number of shares that will eventually vest.

For the six months ended 31 March 2018, the Group has recognised GBP5,694 of share-based payment expense in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income (31 March 2017 and 30 September 2017: GBPnil).

13. Principal Risks and Uncertainties

There are a number of potential risks and uncertainties which could have a material impact on the Group's performance over the remaining six months of the financial year. The directors do not consider that the principal risks and uncertainties have changed since the publication of the Annual Report for the year ended 30 September 2017. These risks are summarised below, and how the Group seeks to mitigate these risks is set out on pages 36 to 38 of the Annual Report and Accounts 2017, which can be found at www.hollywoodbowlgroup.com

In summary, these include:

   --      The economic condition in the UK 
   --      Dependency on the performance of IT systems 
   --      Delivery of products from 3(rd) party suppliers which are key to the customer experience 
   --      Retention of key team 
   --      Data security and protection 
   --      Adherence with regulatory requirements 

14. Related Party Transactions

31 March 2018

There were no related party transactions during the period.

31 March 2017

During the period Epiris Managers LLP charged a management fee of GBP25,000 to the Group.

Responsibility Statement

We confirm that to the best of our knowledge:

-- The condensed set of financial statements has been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 'Interim

Financial Reporting' as adopted by the EU.

-- The interim management report includes a fair review of the information required by :

(a) DTR 4.2.7R of the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules, being an indication of important events that have occurred during the first six months of the financial year and their impact on the condensed set of financial statements; and a description of the principal risks and uncertainties for the remaining six months of the year; and

(b) DTR 4.2.8R of the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules, being related party transactions that have taken place in the first six months of the current financial year and that have materially affected the financial position or performance of the entity during that period; and any changes in the related party transactions described in the last annual report that could do so.

This responsibility statement was approved by the Board on 23 May 2018 and is signed on its behalf by:

Stephen Burns Laurence Keen

CEO CFO

23 May 2018 23 May 2018

INDEPENDENT REVIEW REPORT TO THE SHAREHOLDERS OF HOLLYWOOD BOWL GROUP PLC

Conclusion

We have been engaged by the company to review the condensed set of financial statements in the half-yearly financial report for the six months ended 31 March 2018 which comprises the condensed consolidated statement of comprehensive income, the condensed consolidated statement of financial position, the consolidated statement of changes in equity, the condensed consolidated statement of cash flows and the related explanatory notes.

Based on our review, nothing has come to our attention that causes us to believe that the condensed set of financial statements in the half-yearly financial report for the six months ended 31 March 2018 is not prepared, in all material respects, in accordance with IAS 34 Interim Financial Reporting as adopted by the EU and the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules ("the DTR") of the UK's Financial Conduct Authority ("the UK FCA").

Scope of review

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 UK. 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. We read the other information contained in the half-yearly financial report and consider whether it contains any apparent misstatements or material inconsistencies with the information in the condensed set of financial statements.

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.

Directors' responsibilities

The half-yearly financial report is the responsibility of, and has been approved by, the directors. The directors are responsible for preparing the half-yearly financial report in accordance with the DTR of the UK FCA.

As disclosed in note 1, annual financial statements of the group are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the EU. The directors are responsible for preparing the condensed set of financial statements included in the half-yearly financial report in accordance with IAS 34 as adopted by the EU.

Our responsibility

Our responsibility is to express to the company a conclusion on the condensed set of financial statements in the half-yearly financial report based on our review.

The purpose of our review work and to whom we owe our responsibilities

This report is made solely to the company in accordance with the terms of our engagement to assist the company in meeting the requirements of the DTR of the UK FCA. Our review has been undertaken so that we might state to the company those matters we are required to state to it in this report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the company for our review work, for this report, or for the conclusions we have reached.

Peter Selvey

for and on behalf of KPMG LLP

Chartered Accountants

58 Clarendon Road

Watford WD17 1DE

23 May 2018

This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.

END

IR FMGZKKMRGRZM

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May 23, 2018 02:00 ET (06:00 GMT)

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