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CRPR Cropper (james) Plc

295.00
0.00 (0.00%)
Last Updated: 08:00:00
Delayed by 15 minutes
Share Name Share Symbol Market Type Share ISIN Share Description
Cropper (james) Plc LSE:CRPR London Ordinary Share GB0002346053 ORD 25P
  Price Change % Change Share Price Bid Price Offer Price High Price Low Price Open Price Shares Traded Last Trade
  0.00 0.00% 295.00 280.00 310.00 295.00 295.00 295.00 2,207 08:00:00
Industry Sector Turnover Profit EPS - Basic PE Ratio Market Cap
Paper Mills 130.45M 516k 0.0540 54.63 28.19M

Cropper(James) PLC Final Results (5192S)

26/06/2018 7:00am

UK Regulatory


Cropper (james) (LSE:CRPR)
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TIDMCRPR

RNS Number : 5192S

Cropper(James) PLC

26 June 2018

James Cropper PLC

The advanced materials and paper products group, is pleased to announce its

Preliminary Audited Results for the 52 weeks ended 31 March 2018

 
                                                        Restated 
                                                               * 
                                                 2018       2017 
                                                 GBPm       GBPm 
 Revenue                                         96.3       92.4 
 Adjusted operating profit (excluding impact 
  of IAS 19)                                      6.1        6.8 
 Adjusted profit before tax (excluding IAS 
  19)                                             5.8        6.5 
 Impact of IAS 19                               (1.3)      (1.0) 
 Profit before tax                                4.5        5.5 
 Earnings per share - diluted                   43.0p      49.0p 
 Dividend per share declared                    13.5p      11.8p 
 
 Net borrowings                                 (4.8)      (7.4) 
 Equity shareholders' funds                      23.3       19.1 
 Gearing % - before IAS 19 deficit                12%        20% 
 Capital expenditure                              1.9        5.3 
 

* Refer to Prior Year Adjustment note on page 2

Financial Highlights

   --      Impact of higher pulp prices added an estimated GBP3.5m to material costs for the year. 
   --      Sales higher in every division with TFP up 17% on last year. 
   --      Diluted earnings per share down 12% to 43.0p (49.0p restated prior year). 
   --      Dividend up 14% to 13.5p (11.8p prior year). 

Commercial and Operational Highlights

Paper

   --      Strategy to drive to a higher value product mix is being deployed successfully. 
   --      Activities to drive operational efficiencies are yielding positive results. 
   --      Impacted by significant raw material pulp price increases. 

Technical Fibre Products

   --      Double digit organic growth across target markets. 
   --      Recently installed capacity is ensuring demand is met. 
   --      Additional capacity is being planned to support continued volume growth. 

James Cropper 3DP

   --      Significant market interest resulting in a strong active project pipeline. 
   --      Project cycle time to commercialisation is longer than anticipated. 
   --      3DP business is a strategic growth focus with attractive financial returns. 

Mark Cropper, Chairman, commented:

"As intimated by the recommended final dividend increase, the Board and I continue to be excited about the prospects of the Group. We recognise there are significant challenges in recovering the margins lost in Paper to pulp costs and that continued research, innovation and investment will be vital to maintaining our position and creating future value.

This year I have been heartened by the growing recognition the Group is receiving for our sustainable products, and the integrity of our operations and employees. The latter matters most of all. Indeed more than ever we are dedicating time and investment to ensure all who work for James Cropper are given the skills, know-how, accountability and awareness of our ambitions to have successful long term careers within the Group. These in turn, I hope, will ensure we can continue to expand for many years to come."

Enquiries:

 
 Isabelle Maddock, Group          Robert Finlay, Richard Johnson, 
  Finance Director                 Henry Willcocks 
 James Cropper PLC (AIM:CRPR.L)   Stockdale Securities Limited 
 Telephone: +44 (0) 1539          Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7601 6100 
  722002 
 www.cropper.com                  www.stockdalesecurities.com 
 
 
                                                     Restated 
                                                            * 
                                              2018       2017 
 Summary of Results                        GBP'000    GBP'000 
 Revenue 
 James Cropper Paper                        71,237     71,024 
 James Cropper 3D Products                     166          7 
 Technical Fibre Products                   24,909     21,332 
----------------------------------------  --------  --------- 
                                            96,312     92,363 
 
 Adjusted operating profit (excluding 
  impact of IAS 19) 
 James Cropper Paper                         1,468      3,209 
 James Cropper 3D products                 (1,639)      (426) 
 Technical Fibre Products                    7,449      5,940 
 Other Group expenses                      (1,145)    (1,874) 
----------------------------------------  --------  --------- 
                                             6,133      6,849 
 Net interest (excluding impact of 
  IAS 19)                                    (308)      (283) 
----------------------------------------  --------  --------- 
 Adjusted profit before tax (excluding 
  impact of IAS 19)                          5,825      6,566 
 
 IAS 19 pension adjustments 
 Net current service charge against 
  operating profits                          (695)      (661) 
 Finance costs charged against interest      (589)      (364) 
----------------------------------------  --------  --------- 
                                           (1,284)    (1,025) 
----------------------------------------  --------  --------- 
 Profit before Tax                           4,541      5,541 
----------------------------------------  --------  --------- 
 
 Operating profit 
 James Cropper Paper                         1,468      3,209 
 James Cropper 3D Products                 (1,639)      (426) 
 Technical Fibre Products                    7,449      5,940 
 Other Group expenses                      (1,840)    (2,535) 
----------------------------------------  --------  --------- 
 Operating profit                            5,438      6,188 
 Net interest                                (897)      (647) 
----------------------------------------  --------  --------- 
 Profit before tax                           4,541      5,541 
----------------------------------------  --------  --------- 
 

* Refer to Prior Year Adjustment note on page 2

The IAS 19 pension adjustments are explained in detail in the Financial Review section of the Annual Report. The total amount excluded from the IAS 19 pension charged is GBP1,284,000 (2017: GBP1,025,000). The adjustment, which we refer to in these accounts as "impact of IAS 19" represents the difference between the pension charge as calculated under IAS 19 and the cash contributions for the current service cost only as determined by the latest triennial valuation. The Directors consider that the adjusted pension charge better reflects the actual pension costs for ongoing service compared to the IAS 19 charge. This adjustment is made internally when we assess performance and is also used in the EBITDA and EPS targets used in management incentive schemes.

* Prior Year Adjustment:

The Group (and Company) have identified that the historical valuation of the defined benefit pension obligation did not capture the potential additional liabilities arising in relation to the normal retirement dates for male and female members of the James Cropper Plc Staff Pension Scheme. As a result, the comparative figures in these financial statements have been restated to reflect the estimated correct balance.

The effect of the restatement is that the prior year profit for the period for both the Group and Company has been reduced by GBP99,000 as a result of the increased interest payable. Other comprehensive income is reduced by GBP320,000 due to the increase in actuarial losses of GBP492,000, offset by the increase in the associated deferred tax of GBP172,000. The retirement benefit liability is increased by GBP3,374,000 and the associated deferred tax asset is also increased by GBP573,000, resulting in a reduction in net assets of GBP2,801,000.

 
                                                   Restated 
                                                          * 
 Balance Sheet Summary                      2018       2017 
                                         GBP'000    GBP'000 
 
 Non-pension assets - excluding 
  cash                                    59,899     64,304 
 Non-pension liabilities - excluding 
  borrowings                            (15,585)   (19,433) 
-------------------------------------  ---------  --------- 
                                          44,314     44,871 
 
 Net IAS 19 pension deficit 
  (after deferred tax)                  (16,162)   (18,421) 
-------------------------------------  ---------  --------- 
                                          28,152     26,450 
 Net borrowings                          (4,806)    (7,364) 
-------------------------------------  ---------  --------- 
 
   Equity shareholders' funds             23,346     19,086 
 Gearing % - before IAS 19 deficit           12%        20% 
 Gearing % - after IAS 19 deficit            21%        39% 
 Capital expenditure                       1,935      5,315 
 

* Refer to Prior Year Adjustment note on page 2

CHAIRMAN'S LETTER

Dear Shareholders

This year has been a year of contrasts for the Group. While we have continued to strengthen in numerous ways we have been unable to sustain the upwards profits trajectory of recent years. This is primarily owing to dramatically rising pulp costs within our paper division, as well as increased losses incurred within our start-up business, James Cropper 3D Products Limited ("3DP").

Nevertheless, there is plenty to be positive about. The net impact of the headwinds faced were significantly lessened under the careful stewardship of CEO Phil Wild and his team, and across all divisions our ambitions remain undiminished. Our financial position under the leadership of Finance Director Isabelle Maddock also remains strong. Cash generation from operations was only very slightly lower than the prior year, and with strong working capital controls we were able to continue investment in 3DP. Borrowings are presently low giving us sufficient headroom within our financial covenants to fund future investments.

This year TFP has led the way in both revenue and profit growth, the latter jumping by 25 percent. This followed a marginal performance improvement in the prior year and was a welcome uplift given our significant investment in doubling production capacity in 2015. Orders for the third UK production line are growing in step with our ambitions and, as outlined by Managing Director Martin Thompson in the Annual Report, further capacity is likely to be required by 2020. Aerospace and defence were behind much of the growth experienced this year, albeit outshone by demand for fuel cell materials which has doubled for the second year in a row. The fuel cell industry is in its infancy in most markets and accordingly has excellent growth prospects.

In the Paper division profits more than halved in 2017-18 owing to significant rises in the price of pulp, as noted above. It was not possible to recover these in the year though the impact was significantly mitigated by commercial and operational improvements. Mix and margin continue to be enhanced, helped by good demand for our products from customers new and old. Efficiency and productivity improvements continue apace and we see scope for many more. This year was noteworthy for process waste being cut to its lowest ever level.

Recycling has also featured highly in Paper's most public highlight of the year, the launch and ongoing publicity around the CupCycling(TM) initiative. Not least this attracted the attention of HRH The Prince of Wales and his Business in the Community responsible business network, the latter arranging a "Seeing is Believing" tour and waste summit to coincide with his visit to the mill in March.

Whilst we have operated our coffee cup recycling plant for some years, this project to upcycle used coffee cups into paper and packaging products brings the story full circle. It has raised James Cropper's profile greatly and is leading to many new lines of enquiry. At the outset of the year we could not have imagined how much prominence coffee cups were to gain in the national consciousness.

The similar attention being shone on single use plastics has also proved very timely for 3DP's Colourform(TM) moulded fibre range, specifically designed as a recyclable and attractive alternative to plastic. This was launched in September 2017 and we were greatly honoured that HRH The Prince of Wales officially opened the plant on his visit. The business was not cash positive this year as hoped but we remain convinced by its long term potential and will continue to invest in pursuit of this.

This is but one example of the Board's longer term initiatives I referred to in last year's report. It is also indicative of the strength of the Group that we continue to grow our Technology & Innovation department under CTO Patrick Willink in order to explore several other avenues of future potential.

Within these we are mindful that innovation need not necessarily be technological but can also take many other forms, be they commercial, financial or otherwise. It is also central to our approach that we take an external view. On this note we are delighted to be welcoming Dr Andrew Hosty this year as a Non-Executive Director. Andrew will be joining the Board on 1 August, and brings a wealth of relevant experience and acumen to the Group, not least gained within Morgan Advanced Materials plc where he served as COO and most recently as Founding CEO of the Sir Henry Royce Institute for Advanced Materials.

As well as new and external ways of thinking, another core tenet that is central to our prospects is that of partnership. This is not new. For generations we have prized our relationships with stakeholders, be they customers, suppliers, banks and advisers, shareholders or employees. Indeed, we measure the longevity of these by the decade. What is changing, however, is the depth and scale of many. In recent years more and more of our growth has been underpinned by close collaborations with global corporations in sectors ranging from luxury retail to aerospace. All value us for our creativity and agility, often beyond what is possible within very large organisations, and we value them for the challenge and magnitude of potential they bring us. Many we can't talk about, but a few related stories are told in the annual report, including our programme with Selfridges, McDonalds and Veolia which recently won a global supply chain award for Best Collaborative Effort.

Dividend per Share 2018

The Board is recommending a final dividend of 11.0 pence per share, making a total dividend for the financial period of 13.5 pence per share, an increase of 14%.

Basic earnings per share in the period fell by 12% to 43.3 pence per share with diluted earnings per share falling by 12% to 43.0 pence per share.

Outlook

As already noted, and intimated by the recommended final dividend increase, the Board and I continue to be excited about the prospects of the Group. We recognise there are significant challenges in recovering the margins lost in Paper to pulp costs and that continued research, innovation and investment will be vital to maintaining our position and creating future value.

This year I have been heartened by the growing recognition the Group is receiving for our sustainable products, and the integrity of our operations and employees. The latter matters most of all. Indeed more than ever we are dedicating time and investment to ensure all who work for James Cropper are given the skills, know-how, accountability and awareness of our ambitions to have successful long term careers within the Group. These in turn, I hope, will ensure we can continue to expand for many years to come.

Mark Cropper

Chairman

25 June 2018

CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S REVIEW

In the period we have observed a significant increase in pulp price impacting the Paper division. The full period impact of the higher pulp price on the Group's pre-tax profits was approximately GBP3.5m. In a response the Group implemented interim cost savings and, together with the trading strength of the Technical Fibre Products Division ("TFP"), the headwind created from the pulp price increase was mitigated by over GBP2.0m.

At the start of the period the Group's expectation for Profit before tax (excluding IAS 19) was GBP7.2m. This was subsequently revised following the significant movement on pulp price, to GBP5.7m. The final result taking into account the headwinds and mitigation actions was just ahead of our latest forecast at GBP5.8m.

The underlying performance of the Paper division remains healthy with improving operating margins and additional interest shown following the media interest in our Cupcycling(TM) brands. TFP has had a successful period with strong growth in revenues and operating profits. James Cropper 3DP ("3DP") has seen slow growth in revenue but increasing interest in Colourform(TM) as a sustainable alternative to plastic packaging.

Group profit before tax was GBP4.5m, compared to GBP5.5m in the prior period (restated).

Revenue and Operating Profit

Group revenue for the financial year was GBP96.3m, up 4% on the prior period.

Revenue for James Cropper Paper grew by 0.3% in the period to GBP71.2m with operating profit lower by 54% to GBP1.5m.

Revenue for Technical Fibre Products grew by 17% in the period to GBP24.9m and operating profit up 25% at GBP7.4m.

Research and development

Research and development is a fundamental part of our growth strategy, adding to our capability, maintaining our competitiveness and bringing new product lines into our target markets. The Group continues to invest in research and development with expenditure in R&D of GBP2.6m in the period, compared to GBP1.4m in the prior period.

Capital expenditure

Capital expenditure during the period was GBP1.9m (2017: GBP5.3m).

Cash and debt

The Group had gross debt of GBP10.4m at the balance sheet date and cash of GBP5.6m, giving a net debt of GBP4.8m (2017: GBP7.4m). The Group had un-drawn overdraft and revolving credit facilities of GBP8.9m, at the balance sheet date and borrowings of GBP1.6m to be repaid within 12 months. The undrawn facilities and the cash provide funds against which the short term borrowings can be paid, leaving GBP12.9m of funds available to the Group at the period end.

Gearing at the financial period end, after deduction of the IAS 19 pension deficit, was 21%, down from 39% (restated) on the previous period. Gearing, excluding the impact of IAS 19, was 12% down from 20% on the previous period.

Core Principles supporting our growth strategy

While we've long believed that 'no man is an island', this year is testimony that the same is true for businesses. James Cropper owes its 173 year history of success to the partnerships it has fostered with customers, suppliers and the local community.

It is this collaborative attitude which allows us to claim a 40 year partnership with picture framing experts Arqadia, 100 years working alongside pulp supplier UPM Kaukas, and creating new partnerships with brands such as CCM Hockey and Lush Fresh Handmade Cosmetics.

The highlights of the Group's performance this year have been supported by partnerships; but they have also been driven by our collaborative approach to people, innovation and sustainability.

People

When it comes to recruiting our people, we have a clear strategy: we look for the absolute best. As a company with global reach and ambition, a fantastic heritage and a focus on world-class innovation, diversity and equality are not just nice to haves, they're an essential part of securing the future of our business. That's why, outside of ability and shared values there are no barriers to joining the James Cropper team.

We see the relationship we have with each of our people as a partnership. I believe this approach underpins our low staff turnover and outstanding record for long-term service. The result is a wealth of knowledge and skills staying in the business that are fundamental in our capacity for growth.

Our commitment to building a culture with no obstacles to progression is reflected in the productivity we see every day, as well as our world-class products and service. Our investment of hundreds of thousands of pounds in training is essential to this output and we're proud that five per cent of our staff are currently active in apprenticeships.

Innovation

This year, the spotlight on James Cropper's position as an innovator has been particularly bright. Recognition from both inside and outside of the industry has come in the form of award wins, media profile and even a Royal visit.

Over the course of the year, our CupCycling(TM) facility began upcycling used coffee cups into premium paper products in a supply-chain partnership with McDonalds, Costa and Selfridges to name a few. Our 3D Products business has evolved from producing the inlays for packaging to providing full packaging solutions that are 100% plastic-free, broadening opportunities significantly. In addition, Technical Fibre Products has worked with clients to develop composite fuel pipes designed to replace metallic equivalents, saving weight and therefore fuel consumption for the aerospace industry. Additionally TFP are developing a range of new applications using nano coating technologies.

Carving new avenues for growth through innovation is part of the James Cropper legacy, but it is not accidental. Each business has its own dedicated Research and Development team and we invest around GBP2m annually across our businesses. Fifteen per cent of our workforce is fully dedicated to R&D activities and a large proportion hold roles with part-time responsibility for driving innovation.

Sustainability

Sustainability is no longer a word used to describe an intention or idea of the future. Consumers and investors want to see the businesses they engage with taking tangible steps towards sustainable practice. For those who cannot find a solution to sustainability challenges, key stakeholders will start to walk with their feet towards the businesses who can.

The culture of sustainability runs deep at James Cropper but working with our people, suppliers and community to ensure we continue to do better every day is key. Whether it's the use of renewable energy or investing in innovative processes to meet recycling challenges, we are always making change, and the last year is a tribute to this.

Most notably, James Cropper was highlighted as an example of best practice when Business in the Community, founded by The Prince of Wales, chose to hold a summit at our mill. There, a group of cross sector leaders met in the spirit of collaboration to discuss some of the key challenges and opportunities related to bringing waste back into value chains. Our processes and products were used as inspiration, notably our used coffee cup recycling and our capability to create beautiful plastic-free packaging.

However, the work is never done. We continue to study our own practice through formal life-cycle analysis across the business. This examines the provenance of the materials we use, how they get to us, the manufacturing process, and whether our products can be recycled or contribute to a value stream at the end of their lifespan.

Our activities across innovation, sustainability and investment in our people provides a solid foundation and vehicle for long-term commercial success. These core principles will remain at the heart of our growth strategy for the years ahead.

Phil Wild

Chief Executive Officer

25 June 2018

 
 James Cropper PLC 
 Group Statement of Comprehensive Income 
                                                                                                        Restated * 
 
                                                                                                 52 week period to 
                                                             52 week period to 31 March 2018          1 April 2017 
                                                                                     GBP'000               GBP'000 
 
 Revenue                                                                              96,312                92,363 
 Other income                                                                            346                   322 
 Changes in inventories of finished goods and work in 
  progress                                                                               767                 (180) 
 Raw materials and consumables used                                                 (40,661)              (34,793) 
 Energy costs                                                                        (4,021)               (4,501) 
 Employee benefit costs                                                             (27,314)              (26,238) 
 Depreciation and amortisation                                                       (2,678)               (2,297) 
 Other expenses                                                                     (17,313)              (18,488) 
 Operating profit                                                                      5,438                 6,188 
 Interest payable and similar charges                                                  (908)                 (647) 
 Interest receivable and similar income                                                   11                     - 
 Profit before taxation                                                                4,541                 5,541 
 Tax expense                                                                           (451)                 (910) 
----------------------------------------------------------  --------------------------------  -------------------- 
 Profit for the period                                                                 4,090                 4,631 
----------------------------------------------------------  --------------------------------  -------------------- 
 
 Earnings per share - basic                                                            43.3p                 49.4p 
----------------------------------------------------------  --------------------------------  -------------------- 
 
 Earnings per share - diluted                                                          43.0p                 49.0p 
----------------------------------------------------------  --------------------------------  -------------------- 
 
 Other comprehensive income 
 Profit for the period                                                                 4,090                 4,631 
 Items that are or may be reclassified to profit or loss 
 Foreign currency translation                                                           (82)                   224 
 Cash flow hedges - effective portion of changes in fair 
  value                                                                                   57                   (9) 
 Items that will never be reclassified to profit or loss 
 Retirement benefit liabilities - actuarial gains/(losses)                             2,593              (11,878) 
 
 Deferred tax on actuarial (gains)/losses on retirement 
  benefit liabilities                                                                  (441)                 2,019 
 
 Income tax on other comprehensive income                                                 91                     - 
---------------------------------------------------------   --------------------------------  -------------------- 
 Other comprehensive income/(expense) for the period                                   2,218               (9,644) 
----------------------------------------------------------  --------------------------------  -------------------- 
 Total comprehensive income/(expense) for the period 
  attributable to equity holders of the 
  Company                                                                              6,308               (5,013) 
----------------------------------------------------------  --------------------------------  -------------------- 
 
 

* Refer to Prior Year Adjustment note on page 2

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

 
                                               Restated              Restated 
                                                      *                     * 
                                       Group      Group    Company    Company 
                                       As at      As at      As at      As at 
                                    31 March    1 April   31 March    1 April 
                                        2018       2017       2018       2017 
                                     GBP'000    GBP'000    GBP'000    GBP'000 
--------------------------------   ---------  ---------  ---------  --------- 
 Assets 
 Intangible assets                       496        569        112         69 
 Property, plant and equipment        25,113     26,572      1,732      1,942 
 Investments in subsidiary 
  undertakings                             -          -      7,350      7,350 
 Deferred tax assets                   2,053      2,843      3,649      3,453 
---------------------------------  ---------  ---------  ---------  --------- 
 Total non-current assets             27,662     29,984     12,843     12,814 
---------------------------------  ---------  ---------  ---------  --------- 
 
 Inventories                          14,854     14,097          -          - 
 Trade and other receivables          18,522     23,066     45,651     45,191 
 Other financial assets                   47          -         47          - 
 Cash and cash equivalents             5,557      1,921      3,004        526 
 Current tax assets                      867          -        530        463 
 Total current assets                 39,847     39,084     49,232     46,180 
---------------------------------  ---------  ---------  ---------  --------- 
 
 Total assets                         67,509     69,068     62,075     58,994 
---------------------------------  ---------  ---------  ---------  --------- 
 
 Liabilities 
 
 Trade and other payables             14,328     18,493     21,823     19,470 
 Other financial liabilities               -          9          -          9 
 Loans and borrowings                  1,600      1,570         43         79 
 Current tax liabilities                   -          1          -          - 
 Total current liabilities            15,928     20,073     21,866     19,558 
---------------------------------  ---------  ---------  ---------  --------- 
 
 Long-term borrowings                  8,763      7,715      4,070      6,427 
 Retirement benefit liabilities       19,472     22,194     19,472     22,194 
 Total non-current liabilities        28,235     29,909     23,542     28,621 
---------------------------------  ---------  ---------  ---------  --------- 
 
 Total liabilities                    44,163     49,982     45,408     48,179 
---------------------------------  ---------  ---------  ---------  --------- 
 
 Equity 
 Share capital                         2,370      2,367      2,370      2,367 
 Share premium                         1,472      1,472      1,472      1,472 
 Translation reserve                     520        602          -          - 
 Reserve for own shares              (1,445)      (853)    (1,445)      (853) 
 Retained earnings                    20,429     15,498     14,270      7,829 
 Total shareholders' equity           23,346     19,086     16,667     10,815 
---------------------------------  ---------  ---------  ---------  --------- 
 
 Total equity and liabilities         67,509     69,068     62,075     58,994 
---------------------------------  ---------  ---------  ---------  --------- 
 

* Refer to Prior Year Adjustment note on page 2

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

For the period ended 31 March 2018 (2017: for the period ended 1 April 2017)

 
                                                               Restated                            Restated 
                                                                      *                                   * 
                                                 Group            Group     Company                 Company 
                                                  2018             2017        2018                    2017 
 
                                               GBP'000          GBP'000     GBP'000                 GBP'000 
-----------------------------------------   ----------  ---------------  ----------  ---------------------- 
  Cash flows from operating activities 
  Net profit                                     4,090            4,631       5,422                   3,271 
  Adjustments for: 
  Tax                                              451              910         200                     326 
  Depreciation and amortisation                  2,678            2,297         161                     120 
  Net IAS 19 pension adjustments 
   within SCI                                    1,284            1,025       1,284                   1,025 
  Past service pension deficit payments        (1,413)          (1,362)     (1,413)                 (1,362) 
  Foreign exchange differences                   (626)               84         142                      78 
  (Profit)/loss on disposal of property, 
   plant and equipment                            (11)               14           -                       - 
  Net bank interest income & expense               308              282       (554)                   (648) 
  Share based payments                             341              283         341                     283 
  Dividends received from Subsidiary 
   Companies                                         -                -     (7,500)                 (6,000) 
  Changes in working capital: 
  (Increase)/decrease in inventories             (807)              105           -                       - 
  Decrease/(increase) in trade and 
   other receivables                             4,400          (4,113)     (1,954)                 (2,661) 
  (Decrease)/increase in trade and 
   other payables                              (4,029)            3,932       2,314                   2,094 
  Interest received                                 11                2         631                     720 
  Interest paid                                  (320)            (293)        (79)                    (73) 
  Tax paid                                       (839)          (1,081)       (839)                 (1,081) 
------------------------------------------  ----------  ---------------  ----------  ---------------------- 
 Net cash generated from / (used by) 
  operating activities                           5,518            6,716     (1,844)                 (3,908) 
  Cash flows from investing activities 
  Purchase of intangible assets                   (41)            (486)        (22)                    (28) 
  Purchases of property, plant and 
   equipment                                   (1,894)          (4,828)        (73)                   (286) 
  Proceeds from sale of property, 
   plant and equipment                              12                4           -                       - 
  Dividends received                                 -                -       7,500                   6,000 
------------------------------------------  ----------  ---------------  ----------  ---------------------- 
 Net cash (used in) / generated from 
  investing activities                         (1,923)          (5,310)       7,405                   5,686 
  Cash flows from financing activities 
  Proceeds from issue of ordinary 
   shares                                            3              454           3                     454 
  Proceeds from issue of new loans               4,220            2,450         131                   2,270 
  Repayment of borrowings                      (2,570)          (4,115)       (118)                    (68) 
  Issue of inter-company loans                       -                -     (1,451)                 (3,602) 
  Purchase of LTIP investments                   (441)            (510)       (441)                       - 
  Dividends paid to shareholders               (1,097)            (881)     (1,097)                   (881) 
------------------------------------------  ----------  ---------------  ----------  ---------------------- 
 Net cash generated from/(used in) 
  financing activities                             115          (2,602)     (2,973)                 (1,827) 
 
 Net increase/(decrease) in cash and 
  cash equivalents                               3,710          (1,196)       2,588                    (49) 
  Effect of exchange rate fluctuations 
   on cash held                                   (74)             (69)       (110)                    (67) 
------------------------------------------  ----------  ---------------  ----------  ---------------------- 
 Net increase/(decrease) in cash and 
  cash equivalents                               3,636          (1,265)       2,478                   (116) 
 Cash and cash equivalents at the 
  start of the period                            1,921            3,186         526                     642 
------------------------------------------  ----------  ---------------  ----------  ---------------------- 
 Cash and cash equivalents at the 
  end of the period                              5,557            1,921       3,004                     526 
------------------------------------------  ----------  ---------------  ----------  ---------------------- 
  Cash and cash equivalents consists 
   of: 
 Cash at bank and in hand                        5,557            1,921       3,004                     526 
------------------------------------------  ----------  ---------------  ----------  ---------------------- 
 

* Refer to Prior Year Adjustment note on page 2

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

GROUP

 
 
    All figures in           Share                Share           Translation                            Retained 
           GBP'000         capital              premium               reserve       Own Shares           earnings             Total 
------------------  --------------  -------------------  --------------------  ---------------  -----------------  ---------------- 
 
   2 April 2016 as 
   previously 
   stated                    2,306                1,079                   378            (343)             23,273            26,693 
 Prior year 
  adjustment 
  *                              -                    -                     -                -            (2,389)           (2,389) 
------------------  --------------  -------------------  --------------------  ---------------  -----------------  ---------------- 
 2 April 2016 as 
  restated                   2,306                1,079                   378            (343)             20,884            24,304 
 
   Profit for the 
   period                        -                    -                     -                -              4,631             4,631 
 
   Exchange 
   differences                   -                    -                   224                -                  -               224 
 Actuarial 
  (losses) on 
  retirement 
  benefit 
  liabilities 
  (net of deferred 
  tax)                           -                    -                     -                -            (9,852)           (9,852) 
 
   Loss on cash 
   flow hedges                   -                    -                     -                -                (9)               (9) 
------------------  --------------  -------------------  --------------------  ---------------  -----------------  ---------------- 
 
   Total other 
   comprehensive 
   income                        -                    -                   224                -            (9,861)           (9,637) 
 
   Dividends paid                -                    -                     -                -              (881)             (881) 
 
   Share based 
   payment charge                -                    -                     -                -                283               283 
 Tax on share 
  options                        -                    -                     -                -                634               634 
 
   Proceeds from 
   issue of 
   ordinary shares              61                  393                     -                -                  -               454 
 
   Distribution of 
   own shares                    -                    -                     -              192              (192)                 - 
 
   Consideration 
   paid for 
   own shares                    -                    -                     -            (702)                  -             (702) 
------------------  --------------  -------------------  --------------------  ---------------  -----------------  ---------------- 
 Total 
  contributions by 
  and 
  distributions to 
  owners 
  of the Group                  61                  393                     -            (510)              (156)             (212) 
------------------  --------------  -------------------  --------------------  ---------------  -----------------  ---------------- 
 
   At 1 April 2017 
   restated                  2,367                1,472                   602            (853)             15,498            19,086 
 
   Profit for the 
   period                        -                    -                     -                -              4,090             4,090 
 
   Exchange 
   differences                   -                    -                  (82)                -                  -              (82) 
 Actuarial gains 
  on retirement 
  benefit 
  liabilities (net 
  of deferred tax)               -                    -                     -                -              2,152             2,152 
 
   Gain on cash 
   flow hedges                   -                    -                     -                -                 57                57 
------------------  --------------  -------------------  --------------------  ---------------  -----------------  ---------------- 
 
   Total other 
   comprehensive 
   income                        -                    -                  (82)                -              2,209             2,127 
 
   Dividends paid                -                    -                     -                -            (1,097)           (1,097) 
 
   Share based 
   payment charge                -                    -                     -                -                341               341 
 Tax on share 
  options                        -                    -                     -                -              (201)             (201) 
 Tax on other 
  comprehensive 
  income                         -                    -                     -                -                 91                91 
 
   Proceeds from 
   issue of 
   ordinary shares               3                    -                     -                -                  -                 3 
 Distribution of 
  own shares                     -                    -                     -              324                324                 - 
 
   Consideration 
   paid for 
   own shares                    -                    -                     -            (916)              (178)           (1,094) 
------------------  --------------  -------------------  --------------------  ---------------  -----------------  ---------------- 
 Total 
  contributions by 
  and 
  distributions to 
  owners 
  of the Group                   3                    -                     -            (592)            (1,368)           (1,957) 
------------------  --------------  -------------------  --------------------  ---------------  -----------------  ---------------- 
 
   At 31 March 
   2018                      2,370                1,472                   520          (1,445)             20,429            23,346 
------------------  --------------  -------------------  --------------------  ---------------  -----------------  ---------------- 
 

* Refer to Prior Year Adjustment note on page 2

COMPANY

 
    All figures in               Share       Share premium       Own                   Retained                  Total 
           GBP'000             capital                        Shares                   Earnings 
------------------  ------------------  ------------------  --------  -------------------------  --------------------- 
 
   At 2 April 2016 
   as previously 
   stated                        2,306               1,079         -                     16,962                 20,347 
 Prior year 
  adjustment 
  *                                  -                   -         -                    (2,389)                (2,389) 
------------------  ------------------  ------------------  --------  -------------------------  --------------------- 
 At 2 April 2016 
  restated                       2,306               1,079         -                     14,573                 17,958 
 
   Profit for the 
   period                            -                   -         -                      3,271                  3,271 
 Actuarial 
  (losses) on 
  retirement 
  benefit 
  liabilities 
  (net of deferred 
  tax)                               -                   -         -                    (9,852)                (9,852) 
 
   Loss on cash 
   flow hedges                       -                   -         -                        (9)                    (9) 
------------------  ------------------  ------------------  --------  -------------------------  --------------------- 
 
   Total other 
   comprehensive 
   income                            -                   -         -                    (9,861)                (9,861) 
 
   Dividends paid                    -                   -         -                      (881)                  (881) 
 
   Share based 
   payment charge                    -                   -         -                        283                    283 
 Tax on share 
  options                            -                   -         -                        636                    636 
 
   Proceeds from 
   issue of 
   ordinary shares                  61                 393         -                          -                    454 
 
   Distribution of 
   own shares                        -                   -         -                      (192)                  (192) 
 Consideration 
  paid for 
  own shares                         -                   -     (853)                          -                  (853) 
------------------  ------------------  ------------------  --------  -------------------------  --------------------- 
 Total 
  contributions by 
  and 
  distributions to 
  owners 
  of the Group                      61                 393     (853)                      (154)                  (553) 
------------------  ------------------  ------------------  --------  -------------------------  --------------------- 
 
   At 1 April 2017 
   restated                      2,367               1,472     (853)                      7,829                 10,815 
 
   Profit for the 
   period                            -                   -         -                      5,422                  5,422 
 
 Gains on cash 
  flow hedges                        -                   -         -                         57                     57 
 Actuarial gains 
  on retirement 
  benefit 
  liabilities (net 
  of deferred tax)                   -                   -                                2,152                  2,152 
------------------  ------------------  ------------------  --------  -------------------------  --------------------- 
 
   Total other 
   comprehensive 
   income                            -                   -         -                      2,209                  2,209 
 
 
   Dividends paid                    -                   -         -                    (1,097)                (1,097) 
 
   Share based 
   payment charge                    -                   -         -                        341                    341 
 Tax on share 
  options                            -                   -         -                      (201)                  (201) 
 Tax on other 
  comprehensive 
  income                             -                   -         -                         91                     91 
 
   Proceeds from 
   issue of 
   ordinary shares                   3                   -         -                          -                      3 
 Distribution of 
  own shares                         -                   -       324                      (324)                      - 
 Consideration 
  paid for 
  own shares                         -                   -     (916)                          -                  (916) 
------------------  ------------------  ------------------  --------  -------------------------  --------------------- 
 Total 
  contributions by 
  and 
  distributions to 
  owners 
  of the Group                       3                   -     (592)                    (1,190)                (1,779) 
------------------  ------------------  ------------------  --------  -------------------------  --------------------- 
 
   At 31 March 
   2018                          2,370               1,472   (1,445)                     14,270                 16,667 
------------------  ------------------  ------------------  --------  -------------------------  --------------------- 
 

* Refer to Prior Year Adjustment note on page 2

Notes to Preliminary Results for the 52 week period ended 31 March 2018

-- The accounting "year" for the Group is a 52 week period ended 31 March 2018, (2017: 52 week period ended 1 April 2017).

-- Both the parent Company financial statements and the Group financial statements have been prepared and approved by the directors in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the EU ("IFRS") and the Companies Act 2006, as applicable to companies reporting under IFRS.

-- The financial information set out above does not constitute the statutory accounts for the periods ended 31 March 2018 or 1 April 2017. Statutory accounts for 2017 have been delivered to the Registrar of Companies and those for 2018 will be delivered following the Company's Annual General Meeting. The auditor has reported on these accounts, the report was unqualified and did not contain statements under section 498 (2) or (3) of the Companies Act 2006.

-- Basic earnings per share have been calculated on the profit after taxation of GBP4,090,000 (2017: restated GBP4,631,000) divided by the weighted average number of Ordinary shares in issue during the period of 9,448,737 (2017: 9,373,232).

-- The dividend will, if approved, be paid in cash only on 10 August 2018 to all shareholders on the register on 6 July 2018.

Pensions

-- The Group operates two funded pension schemes providing defined benefits for a decreasing number of its employees. The defined benefit pension schemes are sensitive to a number of key factors: the value of the assets, the discount rate used to calculate the schemes liabilities (based on a premium above gilt yields), the rate of inflation and the mortality assumptions for members of the schemes. Changes in these assumptions will impact the deficit positively or negatively.

-- The latest actuarial "on-going" valuations of the Group's pension Schemes at April 2016, determined the combined deficit of the schemes to be GBP15.8m. These valuations are conducted on a triennial basis and provide a steady platform to manage the deficit from one valuation to the next. It is the Group's legal responsibility to fund the defined benefit pension scheme deficits. The April 2016 valuation resulted in liability management and a new agreement with the trustees on payments to reduce the deficit. Under IAS 19 the pension deficit is likely to be volatile and may in the future be very different from this current year end position. The IAS 19 pension deficit net of Deferred Tax, decreased by GBP2,152,000 over the year to GBP16,162,000.

-- A reconciliation of the movement in the Statement of Financial Position of Retirement benefit liabilities is shown below:

 
                                       2018 
                                    GBP'000 
--------------------------------  --------- 
 At 1 April 2017 restated after 
  prior year adjustment            (22,194) 
 Total expense                      (1,874) 
 Contributions paid                   2,003 
 Actuarial gains recognised in 
  SCI                                 2,593 
 At 31 March 2018                  (19,472) 
--------------------------------  --------- 
 

-- The Annual Report and accounts for 2018 will be posted to shareholders on 3 July 2018. The Annual Report will be available on the Company's website (www.cropper.com/financials/) on 26 June 2018, and on request from the Company's registered office, Burneside Mills, Kendal, Cumbria LA9 6PZ from 3 July 2018.

-- The Annual General Meeting of the Company will be held at 11.00am on Wednesday 25 July 2018 at the Bryce Institute, Burneside, Kendal, Cumbria.

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

FR UVUNRWAANUAR

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