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Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc

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FY2018 Annual Report · Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc
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Annual Report 2018

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Inside this report

Highlights 2018

Company Overview
IFC   Highlights 2018
2 

 Group at a Glance

Strategic Report
4  Our Strategic Pillars
6  Our Business Model
 Chairman’s Statement 
8 
9  Chief Executive’s Q&A 
12  Our  Products

12    Surgical Market
14    Woundcare Market

 Our Key Performance Indicators

16   Sealantis Acquisition
18 
20  Our  Business Units
20   Branded
22    OEM
 Financial Review
 Corporate Social Responsibility
 Risk Management

24 
26 
30 

Governance
34    Board of Directors
36    Senior Management Team
38    Corporate Governance Report
45    Audit Committee Report
49    Remuneration Report
60    Directors’ Report

Financial Statements
65 
70 
70 

 Independent Auditor’s Report
 Consolidated Income Statement
 Consolidated Statement  
of Comprehensive Income
 Consolidated Statement  
of Financial Position
 Consolidated Statement  
of Changes in Equity
 Consolidated Statement  
of Cash Flows
 Notes Forming Part of the  
Consolidated Financial Statements

71 

72 

73 

74 

101   Company Balance Sheet
101   Statement of Changes in Equity
102   Notes to the Company 
Financial Statements

106  Five Year Summary
107  Notice of Meeting
114   Advisers

1  Constant currency removes the effect of currency movements by 

re-translating the current period’s performance at the previous period’s 
exchange rates

2  All items are shown before exceptional items which were £0.4 million 
(2017: £nil) and amortisation of acquired intangible assets which were 
£0.1 million (2017: £0.1 million) as defined in the Financial Review

3  Net cash is defined as cash and cash equivalents plus short-term 

investments less financial liabilities and bank loans

4  Data supplied by Global Healthcare Exchange

Financial highlights

Group revenue (£ million)

Adjusted² operating margin (%)

£102.6m

2017: £96.9m
Reported growth: 6%  
(7% at constant currency)1

28.0%

2017: 26.2%
Reported growth: 180bps

Adjusted² profit before tax (£ million)

Profit before tax (£ million)

£28.9m

2017: £25.4m
Reported growth: 14%

£28.4m

2017: £25.3m
Reported growth: 12%

Adjusted² diluted earnings per share (p)

Diluted earnings per share (p)

10.71p

2017: 9.46p
Reported growth: 13%

10.48p

2017: 9.39p
Reported growth: 12%

Net cash flow from operating activities

Net cash3 (£ million)

£20.4m

2017: £17.0m
Reported growth: 20%

£76.4m

2017: £62.5m
Reported growth: 22%

Proposed final dividend of 0.90p per share, making a total dividend for the 
year of 1.32p per share (2017: 1.10p), up 20%.

Business highlights
•  Revenues up 6% to £102.6 million and by 7% at constant currency

 e  Branded revenues up 12% to £62.1 million (2017: £55.2 million) and 

by 13% at constant currency

 e OEM revenues down 3% to £40.5 million (2017: £41.7 million) and 

by 2% at constant currency

•  Another strong performance from LiquiBand® topical tissue adhesives, 

sales up 22% to £31.7 million (2017: £26.0 million) and by 24% at 
constant currency 
 e US revenues up 26% to £23.0 million (2017: £18.2 million) and by 30% 

at constant currency

 e During the year, market share by volume4 increased by 2%

•  Strong growth in Internal Adhesives, following the relaunch of LiquiBand® 
Fix 8™ laparoscopic in Q2 and the soft launch of the open device in Q4. 
Sales increased 21% to £2.1 million (2017: £1.7 million) and by 21% at 
constant currency

•  Biosurgical devices up 8% to £8.6 million (2017: £8.0 million) and by 7% 

at constant currency

•  Sales of sutures were impacted by regulatory challenges, up 2% to 
£13.3 million (2017: £13.1 million) and by 1% at constant currency

•  Antimicrobial dressings up 1% to £19.6 million (2017: £19.4 million) and 

by 2% at constant currency

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

 
 
 
 
 
Company Overview

Strategic Report

Governance

Financial Statements

Advanced Medical Solutions is 
a world-leading independent 
developer and manufacturer of 
innovative and technologically 
advanced products for the global 
surgical and woundcare markets.

Our Strategic Pillars are the foundation of future success:

Growth
Exploiting the 
opportunities of having 
a broad product range 
sold via multiple routes 
to market and across 
multiple geographies

See pages 4 to 5

Innovation
Strengthening our 
portfolio by developing or 
acquiring market leading 
high quality products

Operational  
Excellence
Engaging a culture of 
continuous improvement 
to drive out cost and 
defend margin

Culture
Investing in hiring and 
developing talent while 
embedding our Culture 
of Care, Fair, Dare

We operate to the highest ethical standards with our values  
of Care, Fair, Dare embedded in all we do.

Care
Caring about the work we 
undertake and the real life 
differences we can make

Fair
Acting with integrity and 
ensuring we are fair in all 
aspects of business

Dare
Moving boundaries and 
challenging constructively 
to build on others’ ideas

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

1 

Group at a Glance

Our business

The Group

Group sales

£102.6m

Employees

>600

Countries

75

Distribution partners

>100

Manufacturing and R&D locations

7

1

2

3

6

4 5

7

The AMS Group has six manufacturing facilities, six sales offices 
in Europe, a sales office in Russia, an innovation centre in Israel, 
and a sales team operating in the United States. The Group’s 
headquarters are located in the UK.

 Winsford, UK: HQ:  

Advanced Wound Care manufacturing, R&D, Sales & Marketing

 Nuremberg, Germany:  

RESORBA® Collagen and Haemostats manufacturing,  
R&D, Sales & Marketing

 Domazlice, the Czech Republic:  
RESORBA® Sutures manufacturing & Sales 

 Plymouth, UK:  

Tissue adhesives manufacturing, R&D, Sales & Marketing

 Etten Leur, the Netherlands:  

Bulk foam roll-stock manufacturing, Sales & Marketing

 Neustadt, Germany:  

RESORBA® Sutures manufacturing 

7  Haifa, Israel:  
Sealantis® internal sealants, R&D

2 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Business Units in 2018

Branded (Surgical)
Branded reported in four segments – Advanced 
Closure, Internal Fixation and Sealants, 
Traditional Closure and Biosurgical Devices.

OEM (Woundcare)
OEM reported in three segments – Infection 
Management, Exudate Management and 
Other Woundcare.

Branded sales

£62.1m*

2017: £55.2m 
*  up 12% and 13% at 
constant currency

LiquiBand® sales

£31.7m*

2017: £26.0m 
*  up 22% and 24% at 
constant currency

Our Surgical 
technologies
•  Collagen

•  Cyanoacrylates

•  Oxidised cellulose

•  Sutures

•  Internal fixation

Our brands
•  LiquiBand®

•  RESORBA®

•  LiquiBand Fix8®

•  ActivHeal®

Advanced
woundcare market1

£2.8bn 

Addressable
market

£8.5bn

Surgical market1
Surgical market

£5.7bn 

OEM sales

£40.5m*

2017: £41.7m 
*  down 3% and 2% at 
constant currency

Infection management

£19.6m*

2017: £19.4m 
* up 1% and 2%  

at constant currency

Our Woundcare 
technologies
•  Alginates

•  Foams

•  Hydrocolloid

•  Hydrogels

In 2019 ActivHeal® 
(2018: £6.3m sales) 
will be incorporated 
into OEM and will 
allow a more market 
focused approach, 
along with commercial 
and R&D synergies. 

Business Units realigned in 2019
In 2019 we renamed our Business Units from Branded and OEM to Surgical and Woundcare respectively.  
We believe this better reflects the nature of the business. ActivHeal® will be incorporated into Woundcare.

Our Surgical Business Unit will include the sales, 
marketing, research, development and innovation 
of all our surgical products.

Our Woundcare Business Unit will include sales, 
marketing, research, development and innovation 
of all woundcare devices, regardless of whether 
they are sold under an AMS or a partner brand. 

1 Based on data supplied by the Global Healthcare Exchange and IMS Health.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

3 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial Statements 
 
Our Strategic Pillars

Our core focus areas  
for ongoing success

To sustainably grow our medical device business organically and via acquisition, increase 
customer satisfaction, focusing on productivity, innovation, business continuity and Health and 
Safety, living our Company culture through our Care, Fair, Dare values, valuing our employees 
and being good corporate citizens.

Growth

Innovation

Our growth strategy is to exploit opportunities from multiple routes 
to market across multiple geographies with our diverse portfolio of 
innovative surgical and woundcare products, which add value to 
patients and payors and deliver equal or better clinical performance.

We aim to continue to strengthen our portfolio by developing or 
acquiring high quality products that allow us or our partners to make 
market share gains in high value segments. We invest in hiring and 
developing talent capable of delivering innovation for the business. 

How we are going to achieve it
•  Market share gains: Continue to increase market share of our 
key products, particularly in large medical device markets like 
the US, by demonstrating strong combination of high quality 
products delivering improved performance and value for money 
versus competitors

•  New products: Launch new products in line with our core 

strategic areas and deliver at least two new product launches each 
year from each of our development centres

•  New markets/entry: To continually succeed in getting product 
approvals in new geographies and open up additional selling 
opportunities and market partners

•  M&A: Identify targets and deliver acquisitions with break through 

innovations which provide value for shareholders. The acquisitions 
should provide products or technologies enabling the leveraging 
of the Woundcare customer base or surgical routes to market, or 
surgically focused companies with strong product synergies 
•  Global approvals: Leverage our Regulatory expertise to take 

advantage of higher barriers to entry for new products and new 
markets, and maximise opportunities arising from competing 
products not being renewed in specific markets

What we have achieved in the year
•  Strong performance from LiquiBand® topical adhesives and strong 
growth in Internal Adhesives following the relaunch of LiquiBand® 
Fix8™ Laparoscopic in Q2 and the soft launch of the open hernia 
device in Q4

•  Launched LiquiBand® Exceed mini device in US and LiquiBand® 
Fix8™ for open hernia surgery in the EU (Surgical) and new 
patented silver post-operative dressing, premium PHMB foam 
range and Lite foam product range into the US (Woundcare)
•  Expansion of woundcare into Latin America after successful 

regulatory approval in Brazil

•  Acquisition of Sealantis (internal sealants) for $25m (approx. £19m)

in cash with royalties due on product sales until 2027

•  Regulatory process for newly-developed large wound device 

progressing in US. US approval process for LiquiBand® 
Fix8™ underway

How we are measuring success
•  Revenue growth at constant currency (%)
•  Adjusted diluted earnings per share growth (%)

How we are going to achieve it
•  Expert Key Opinion Leader Panels: Establish Key Opinion Leader 

panels to provide expert input into innovation process and 
exchange information to ensure our innovation output meets 
clinical needs

•  University linkage: Partner with universities to drive innovation 

and exchange ideas, knowledge and resources

•  Centres of Excellence: Establish Centres of Excellence for 

Innovation and ensure resources and ideas from across the Group 
are better utilised

•  Investment in innovation (People and Processes): More 

centralised resources from across the Group to drive innovation. 
Streamline processes to maximise output from innovation 
resources. Ensure that best practice and standard processes are 
implemented across the Group. Increase spend on R&D aligned 
to increased output of innovation projects. Utilise knowledge and 
implement learnings from acquisitions

What we have achieved in the year
•  Engaged surgeons to drive clinical evidence across multiple 

products and start work to expand product claims on 
leading products

•  Worked with a number of Tissue Viability Nurses to develop our 

Woundcare range and provide clinical evidence to support the use 
of our products across hospital and home care settings

•  Entered into agreements with a number of universities to help 

develop products, increase innovation, and exchange resources 
both in terms of equipment and people

•  Acquisition of Sealantis provides AMS with an innovation Centre of 
Excellence which the Group can build on, with expertise in internal 
sealants and resource which can be utilised to develop products 
and technologies from other areas of the business

•  Restructure of reporting lines in R&D to ensure expertise is 

leveraged from key areas. Communication and implementation 
of key processes from most effective R&D functions

How we are measuring success
•  % of revenue spend on R&D & Innovation
•  % of sales from new products launched in the previous five years

See pages 18 to 19 for our KPI performance

See pages 18 to 19 for our KPI performance

4 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Key to strategic linkage in this report

Growth

Innovation

Operational Excellence

Culture

Operational Excellence

Culture

Through a strategy that begins with focusing on what our customers 
need and value, we will drive a culture of engagement and 
continuous improvement that will enable lower operational risk, 
lower operating costs, and increased revenues. This will allow us 
to continue to drive out cost and defend margin.

Our employees drive the success of AMS. We actively promote our 
Care, Fair, Dare culture and measure our employees’ engagement 
in our Culture. We encourage internal promotion of employees on 
a global basis and have invested in apprenticeship programmes to 
build future talent for our business.

How we are going to achieve it
•  Continuous improvement: Establish strong foundations and 

implement a culture of Continuous Improvement deploying an 
appropriate balance of Lean and Six Sigma techniques across all 
areas of AMS

•  Investment: Invest in organisation and capabilities/systems that 

will support future growth and develop our people

•  Customer satisfaction/OTIF: Improve customer satisfaction 

and productivity 

•  Plan for Success: Design and deliver an optimal manufacturing 
footprint strategy to support future growth and optimise our 
supply chain

•  Compliance: Increase Quality and Regulatory capabilities to allow 
us to meet the ever-increasing requirements across the world 
which are being driven by stricter standards, including the Medical 
Device Regulation (MDR)

What we have achieved in the year
•  Investment in our quality and regulatory teams to ensure success 
in an ever-challenging regulatory environment which is being 
driven by the Medical Device Regulation

•  Investment in packaging capacity/capability across both 

Business Units

•  Established a robust and consistent set of KPI’s across Operations 

& Quality, Regulatory and Clinical (QARAC)
•  Developed five year strategies for each site

How we are measuring success
•  Customer Service (OTIF – On Time in Full) (%)
•  Year-over-year change of our standard cost base (%)

How we are going to achieve it
We achieve a positive Culture in our business by focusing on Care, 
Fair, Dare and implementing our five point plan:

•  Talent Attraction – Our business requires highly skilled teams to 
bring innovative products to market ahead of our competition. 
We are committed to attracting the right talent with the correct 
remuneration and benefits

•  Talent Management – Developing and retaining talent allows 
us to build skills to maintain an innovations culture and retain 
knowledge within our business

•  Values and Behaviours – Care, Fair, Dare provides a cultural 

framework to nurture the ways in which we interact and achieve 
success as a team

•  Open Communication – Listening to all views, taking feedback 

and pro-actively providing information allow us to remain agile and 
customer centric

•  Health and Safety – maintaining the highest levels of health and 

safety within our business ensures employees feel safe and secure 
within the working environment

What we have achieved in the year
•  Development of an electronic manpower planning and 

talent acquisition tool to allow greater direct recruitment into 
the business

•  Conducted a talent review, identifying high potentials within the 
business and focusing on talent paths. Identified enhancements 
to the talent review process for 2019 and beyond

•  Developed a Regulatory Career path in the business, to nurture 

talent in this vital area

•  All employees attended cultural workshops, focusing on 

developing action plans to embed Care, Fair, Dare into their teams

•  Introduced One AMS (Group Quality Management System) to 

further integrate the Group and embed the AMS culture
•  Introduced an electronic system to openly ask the Senior 

Management Team questions

How we are measuring success
•  Staff Retention/Turnover (%)
•  Employee Engagement Score (%)

See pages 18 to 19 for our KPI performance

See pages 18 to 19 for our KPI performance

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

5 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsOur Business Model

Creating quality outcomes across 
Branded and OEM

Our Value  
Chain

New Product  
Development

Research and development

Design and testing

What resources  
and relationships  
we rely on:

•  Separate R&D 

teams focusing on 
different technologies:

 e  OEM: foams, fibres 
and antimicrobials

 e  Branded: tissue adhesives, 
haemostats and sutures

•  Collaborations with 

universities, key opinion 
leaders, surgeons and tissue 
viability nurses

•  Extensive patent portfolio:  

over 30 patent families

•  Stage gate process

•  R&D Centre of Excellence 
from Sealantis acquisition

Operations 

Manufacturing and 
security of supply

Quality assurance

What resources  
and relationships  
we rely on:

•  Six manufacturing sites

•  All manufacturing sites 
compliant with ISO 
13485:2016

•  All UK, German and Czech 

sites are compliant with FDA 
21 CFR part 820 Quality 
Management System (QMS)

•  Strong relationships with 

our supply chain

Marketing and 
Regulatory Approval

Bringing products 
to market

Regulatory approval 
in key markets

What resources  
and relationships  
we rely on:

•  Strong regulatory affairs 
department with world-
wide regulatory experience

•  Extensive experience of 
managing successful 
audits (FDA, MDSAP) and 
managing recertification to 
comply with the Medical 
Device Regulation 

•  Regulatory registrations in 

over 75 countries

•  Clinical support teams 

supporting both product 
development and post 
market surveillance

6 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Our Markets 
and Products

Our Routes  
to Market

Outcomes

Branded

•  Surgical market is £5.7bn 

•  Products include LiquiBand® 

medical adhesives, LiquiBand® 
Fix8® internal adhesive and 
RESORBA® sutures, collagens 
and haemostats

•  Will incorporate Sealantis 

internal sealants from 2019

2018 sales: 
£62.1m

AMS or Partner 
Sales Team

•  LiquiBand® and RESORBA® are 
sold by our direct sales teams 
in Germany, UK and the Czech 
Republic and through our global 
network of over 100 distributors 
in other parts of the world

•  ActivHeal® will be transferred 

from Branded (Surgical) to OEM 
(Woundcare) in 2019

For more information see pages 20 to 21

OEM

Third-party

•  Woundcare market is £2.8bn 

•  Products include alginates, 
hydrogels, hydrocolloids, 
antimicrobial dressings, film 
and foams

•  Sales of finished products and 
bulk materials to our medical 
device partners.

•  Global advanced woundcare 

customer base

•  ActivHeal® range of advanced 

•  Convertors, packers

woundcare products

2018 sales: 
£40.5m

Reporting in 2019

As of 2019, we will be reporting our divisional 
performance by Surgical and Woundcare to 
reflect our core markets.

For more information see pages 22 to 23

Quality outcomes 
for patients

Value for payors
Value for payors

Solid financial  
position

Long-term value 
for shareholders

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

7 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsChairman’s Statement

The Group continues to be  
in robust financial health

The Group continues to be in robust financial 
health and is well positioned to further increase our 
commitment to innovation, both internally through 
further investment and externally by actively 
pursuing acquisition opportunities, as evidenced by 
the recent acquisition of Sealantis.”

Peter Allen
Chairman

Dividend
The Board is proposing a final dividend of 0.90p per share, to 
be paid on 14 June 2019 to shareholders on the register at 
the close of business on 24 May 2019. This follows the interim 
dividend of 0.42p per share paid on 26 October 2018 and 
would, if approved, make a total dividend for the year of 1.32p 
per share (2017: 1.10p), an increase of 20%.

On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank all of our 
employees for their contributions during the past year. 
We would not have been able to achieve our strong 
performance without their commitment and effort. I would 
also like to thank our customers, suppliers, business partners 
and shareholders for their continued support in helping AMS 
achieve its goals.

AMS continues to be in robust financial health and is well 
positioned to take advantage of market opportunities across 
our product portfolio and invest in both internal and external 
opportunities in line with the Group’s long-term strategy and 
growth objectives.

Peter Allen
Chairman

18 April 2019

Overview 
This has been another good year for the Group and we 
continue to progress as a leading, international provider of high 
quality, high value, innovative and technologically advanced 
products for the surgical and advanced woundcare markets. 

Strategy
During 2018 our strategy has evolved to overcome changing 
market dynamics. With a focus on our strategic pillars of 
Growth, Innovation, Operational Excellence and Culture, we 
continue to provide high quality products with benefits to both 
patients and payors. Our acquisition of Sealantis adds significant 
growth potential in the internal sealants market and underlines 
our increasing commitment to innovation.

Board changes
As announced at our AGM in June 2018, Mary Tavener retired 
from the roles of Chief Financial Officer and Board Director on 
31 December 2018 and Eddie Johnson, who has been with 
AMS for seven years, as Group Financial Controller, assumed 
the role of Chief Financial Officer and joined the Board on 
1 January 2019. We would like to thank Mary for her 19 years 
of dedicated and outstanding service to AMS. In her time with 
the Group, she has been integral to our listing on AIM, several 
acquisitions and this has culminated in AMS growing for 17 
consecutive years. 

We are also pleased that in November 2018 Alan Richardson 
joined the Group as Chief Operations Officer from Convatec. 
Alan has assumed responsibility for our Group Operations, 
Quality and Regulatory functions and brings with him a wealth 
of experience. 

8 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Chief Executive’s Q&A

The Board remains confident  
about our growth prospects

The Group had another strong 
performance in 2018. The acquisition of 
Sealantis enables AMS to grow into the 
US$1 billion internal sealants market. 
We implemented our new Business Unit 
structure in January 2019. We believe this 
change along with the introduction of our 
new strategic pillars will help to evolve our 
organisation and evolve our organisation, 
further improve our efficiency and adapt to 
changing market dynamics.

Revenue

 +6%

+7%*
to £102.6m 
(2017: £96.9m)
* at constant currency1

Adjusted2 profit before tax

 +14%

to £28.9m 
(2017: £25.4m)

1   Constant currency removes the effect of currency movements by re-translating the 

current year’s performance at the previous year’s exchange rates.

2   All items are shown before amortisation of acquired intangible assets which in 2018, was 
£0.1 million (2017: £0.1m) as defined in the financial review and before exceptional costs 
which were £0.4 million (2017: £Nil million).

With our new product launches strengthening the 
Group’s portfolio, the opportunities from our R&D 
pipeline and our ability to navigate the increasingly 
challenging regulatory environment and capitalise 
on opportunities arising, the Board remains 
confident about our growth prospects.”

Chris Meredith
Chief Executive Officer

Q:   How has the Group performed 

during 2018?

A:  I am pleased we have delivered another good year 

for the Group with progress on a number of fronts. 
Whilst revenue increased by 7% at constant currency, 
which is really positive, we are particularly pleased by 
the fact that we strengthened our product portfolio 
in both Business Units with four key launches in Q4: 
LiquiBand® Fix 8™ Open (EU), LiquiBand® Exceed 
Mini (US), Silver Post-Operative Dressing (US) and 
Antimicrobial PHMB Foam Dressing (US). Both of 
our Business Units continue to provide meaningful 
opportunities for us and perform well, in particular 
the Branded (Surgical) Business Unit where sales 
increased strongly by 12% to £62.1 million and by 
13% at constant currency, underlying the potential for 
our products in the global surgical market and with 
LiquiBand contributing £31.7 million of sales, 24% 
growth at constant currency.

 With our Business Unit changes we have taken 
steps to better commercialise opportunities within 
woundcare and with the refinements made to 
organisation and strategy we have made great 
progress in the year towards ensuring we have the 
correct platform for growth and success in the 
years ahead.

 Subsequent to year-end, AMS announced the 
acquisition of Sealantis Limited which has brought a 
pipeline of significant products, intellectual property, a 
strong R&D team and access to markets in which we 
have not historically operated. The internal sealants 
market is large (greater than US$1 billion) and growing. 
Sealantis has developed a range of products that 
reduce leakage of blood or fluid in high risk surgeries. 
Further details of Sealantis are shown on pages 16 
to 17.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

9 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial Statements 
 
Chief Executive’s Q&A continued

Q:   How has the market changed 

during the year?

A:   The Group operates in the large global surgical 

and advanced woundcare markets, both of which 
have shown steady growth over many years due 
to favourable global healthcare trends and both of 
which provide AMS with significant future potential. 
The growth trajectory continued in 2018 for our main 
surgical market and we extended the area within which 
we compete by adding the Sealantis portfolio to our 
product range. The addition of the Seal G and Seal G 
MIST products opens up a further US$1 billion market 
to us within which we do not currently compete. 
In contrast, the advanced woundcare market has shown 
some weakness, as reported by other global woundcare 
companies, due to factors such as local reimbursement 
changes in certain countries and the entry of some 
lower cost competition. Whilst this has slowed growth 
rates for everyone within woundcare, we know from 
our recent experiences of product recertification in 
Germany that the increased regulatory hurdles are 
likely to result in product withdrawals from the market 
and fewer competitors in the medium term which will 
result in increasing opportunities for the stronger, higher 
quality suppliers and products. We are confident of long-
term growth, as we continue to expand our product 
portfolio, enter new geographies and increase our share 
in each market.

Q:   How do the realigned Business 
Units address the challenges?
A:   As we constantly strive to improve our business, we 

have identified some significant benefits accessible by 
implementing a minor realignment to our Business 
Units. By combining the marketing, development 
and regulatory activities of all advanced woundcare 
products into a single Business Unit, we expect 
improved processes to ensure that we better exploit 
opportunities as they arise.

 Under the new structure, our Branded Business Unit will 
include the sales, marketing research development and 
innovation of all our surgical devices and be called our 
Surgical Business Unit. Our OEM Business Unit, which 
was previously already 95% woundcare will include all 
advanced woundcare sales and marketing, research, 
development and innovation of all our woundcare 
devices, regardless of whether they are sold under an 
AMS or partner brand name. Essentially, the change is 
that ActivHeal® (2018: £6.3 million sales) will move from 
the Branded (renamed Surgical) Business Unit to the 
OEM (renamed Woundcare) Business Unit. The new 
structure was implemented in January 2019 and our 
reported numbers will be presented in this way from 
H1 2019 onwards.

10 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Q:   How has AMS dealt with the 

Regulatory challenges this year?
A:   In May 2017, the European Medical Devices Regulation 

(MDR) started its three-year transition period to replace 
the existing Medical Devices Directive. The MDR 
stipulates stricter requirements on product safety and 
performance, clinical evaluation and post-market clinical 
evidence and all medical device manufacturers will have 
to update their technical documentation and processes 
to meet the new requirements in order to continue to 
sell into the EU, creating a significant spike in medical 
regulatory activities globally.

 Notified bodies will also have to operate to the new 
higher standards and each will have to go through their 
own approval process in order to be able to certify 
medical devices under MDR. Consequently, over the last 
few years the number of Notified Bodies has roughly 
halved to 60 and those that remain are indicating 
resource constraints within their organisations as they 
strive to meet the new regulatory requirements and 
the influx of requests from companies who are seeking 
a new Body following the closure of their previous 
selected partner. 

 During the next few years, all medical device 
manufacturers are at risk of experiencing delays in 
product approvals and recertifications and significantly 
increased demands for evidence on older products. 
In the medium-term, whilst increasing the cost of 
quality and regulatory, the tighter regulatory standards 
should prove beneficial for AMS, as we expect some 
competitors and products to exit the market and fewer 
new market entrants due to the significant barrier 
to entry.

 In 2018 and early 2019, AMS successfully completed 
its five-year recertification process for the RESORBA® 
product portfolio, which proved significantly more 
onerous than usual, as we previously reported, due 
to the above factors and resulted in some short-term 
disruption to supply. Whilst the impact on overall 2018 
results was not material, it did impact the phasing of 
our sales. On the positive side, we gained significant 
knowledge from the process, which we have used 
to prepare a robust Group-wide plan to navigate the 
regulatory challenges of the next few years.

 
 
 
 
Q:   How has the year been strategically 
and what are your priorities for the 
year ahead?

A:   We continue to evolve our organisation and strategy to 

maximise value and efficiency for the Group. In 2018 
our strategy evolved to allow increased focus on 
our four key strategic pillars of Growth, Innovation, 
Operational Excellence and Culture. We are pleased 
with the progress we have made and believe we are 
well set to drive continued growth.

 Historically, our strategy to expand into new 
geographies, increase distribution of our surgical 
products and to enhance our product portfolio has 
served us well and delivered several years of solid 
growth. As we continue to evolve to overcome 
changing market dynamics so does our strategy, 
which has evolved to focus on four key pillars: Growth, 
Innovation, Operational Excellence and Culture. 

 Our Growth strategy still centres on exploiting the 
opportunities from having multiple routes to market 
across multiple geographies trying to ensure our 
products add value to patients and payors through 
delivery of equal or better clinical performance with 
no compromise on care or outcomes.

 For Innovation we continue to strengthen our portfolio 
by developing or acquiring high quality products that 
allow us or our partners to make market share gains in 
high value segments.

 In the increasingly competitive medical device space, 
as we continue to grow and expand our technology 
base we need to ensure we continually driving out cost 
and protect margin through Operational Excellence. 
We have created the Chief Operations Officer role to 
lead this pillar of our business and are well advanced 
with developing our plans to ensure we continue to 
drive continuous improvement across each of our 
operating sites.

 We are only as good as our people and we have 
spent significant time agreeing and communicating 
our desired culture and capturing the essence of 
what has helped AMS become the success it is today. 
Recruiting and retaining high calibre individuals and 
teams remains critical to the success of AMS and we 
believe the work we have done and continue to do in 
this area will serve us well for the future. Our Cultural 
pillar is captured within our Care, Fair, Dare values and 
behaviours which we use to help recruit, recognise and 
reward performance across the Group.

 The Group continues to actively look for businesses 
that deliver value for shareholders, immediately or in the 
short to medium term, and which meet our selection 
criteria of being:

•  Products or technologies that enable us to leverage 
our woundcare customer base or surgical routes to 
market; or

•  Surgically focused companies with product synergies, 
strong R&D capability and ownership of their products.

 We have an internal team working with advisors to 
identify, appraise and progress acquisition opportunities 
and continue to explore options to accelerate growth 
through select targets. 

Q:   What is your key message for the 

year ahead?

A:   How medical devices companies operate and manage 

their businesses going forward is having to change 
given the significant impact of MDR. We enter 2019 with 
renewed optimism with our enhanced product portfolio 
and regulatory strength giving us significant opportunities 
in our large and growing markets and believe we are 
better prepared and better informed than many other 
companies in our space. We are already seeing products 
being withdrawn from the market and suppliers refusing 
to commit to new requirements in support of existing 
products. This can only be good for the stronger, more 
capable players in the space and will increase the burden 
on low cost or inferior products. With the underlying 
demographics still being in our favour in both our wound 
care and surgical markets, with our portfolio continuing 
to evolve through our own research and development 
and select acquisitions, and our continuous process 
of gaining new approvals and market entry across all 
key regions, we remain very optimistic about the future 
prospects of AMS.

Q:  How prepared is AMS for Brexit?
A:  AMS has completed a comprehensive review of its 

supply chain and is well positioned and well prepared 
for Brexit, with increased stock holdings in place to 
reduce any risk of supply disruption. In November 2018, 
our UK notified body (BSI) announced its successful 
designation in the Netherlands, and in early 2019 our UK 
product approvals were transferred to BSI Netherlands, 
with a protracted transition period for related packaging 
changes. As a further minor labelling change, we 
will have to include details of an EU Authorised 
Representative (Advanced Medical Solutions BV) 
on the packaging of our UK manufactured products.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

11 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial Statements 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Our Products

Creating quality products

for the 
surgical market

The Branded (Surgical) Business Unit is 
charged with the innovation and development 
of all surgical products, which are sold 
directly and through distributors. The business 
has a strong pipeline of innovation and 
product approvals.

2018 saw the US launch of LiquiBand® Exceed mini device 
which is used to close smaller wounds and the EU launch 
of LiquiBand® Fix8TM for open surgery hernia mesh fixation. 
The US approval process of LiquiBand® Fix8TM laparoscopic 
is well underway with patient enrolment for the clinical 
study in H1 2019.

We continue to work on extending the LiquiBand® product 
range to compete in the growing market for large wound 
closure, with US approval expected by the end of 2019. We are 
developing improved formulations for the base monomers 
that are used in our adhesives with product launches expected 
in 2019.

We are also developing biosurgical products incorporated with 
antibiotics and conducted our first prescription usage of a new 
antibiotic collagen pouch for cardiac implantable electronic 
devices, such as pacemakers, in Germany. 

The acquisition of Sealantis will provide further access to the 
global internal surgery market. Details are on pages 16 to 17. 

Key information on the Open Hernia device and CIED Pouch 
are outlined on these pages. 

Surgical market1

£5.7bn

1   Based on data supplied by the Global 
Healthcare Exchange and IMS Health.

12 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

LIQUIBAND® FIX8TM Open hernia 
mesh fixation device
•  Atraumatic mesh fixation in Open Inguinal 

Hernia surgery

•  Open Inguinal Hernia Repair is one of the most 

common surgical procedures

•  Delivers cyanoacrylate glue in precise volume with 

a controlled delivery system

•  Aids suture-less closure to topical skin and 

forms a microbial barrier to prevent secondary 
bacterial infection 

•  Reduces turnaround time for patients through 
quick mesh fixation and fast wound closure 
without compromising patient care

•  Fewer post operative complications improves the 
patient’s quality of life and reduces the length of 
hospital stays 

Collagen pouches for CIED
•  A novel, antibiotic collagen pouch for cardiac implantable 

electronic devices, such as pacemakers

•  Antibiotic loaded collagens provide local, rather than 
systemic, drug delivery giving significant patient and 
environmental benefits

•  Product used on seven occasions in humans at MHH 
University Hospital in Hannover, with positive results

•  Conducted our first prescription usage in 2018

•  Working on the development and regulatory 

activities for alternative antibiotics for Orthopedic and 
Cardiac applications

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

13 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsOur Products continued

Creating quality products 

for the  
woundcare 
market

The OEM (Woundcare) Business Unit has 
a strong, continuous new product pipeline 
which targets two new launches per annum, 
and was achieved in 2018. Progress has been 
focused on the infection management area, 
a cornerstone of our innovation pipeline.

There are multiple growth opportunities via range extensions 
and market expansions for the woundcare market. Progress in 
H1 included EU approval for atraumatic Lite foam and approval 
to market our advanced woundcare products in Brazil. 
We anticipate further product range extensions in the next 
two years which include soft silicone PHMB dressings and 
silver high performance dressings.

Following FDA approvals we launched our new silver post-
operative dressing range, including a patented design for total 
joint arthroplasty, and also our premium PHMB foam range 
which demonstrates enhanced performance. Both launches 
are positioned with major US partners.

Key advantages of the new products (Silver Post-Op and 
PHMB Foam) are outlined on these pages.

Advanced woundcare market1

£2.8bn

1   Based on data supplied by the Global 
Healthcare Exchange and IMS Health.

14 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

PHMB Foam
Faster antimicrobial action
•  Total eradication of challenged organisms within 24 hours

Sustained antimicrobial activity
•  PHMB is an effective antimicrobial agent against a broad 

spectrum of microorganisms for up to seven days

Waterproof polyurethane bacterial barrier film
•  Stops bacteria from entering the wound. Allows moisture 
vapour through the dressing, reducing risk of maceration

Activity against biofilm
•  Prevents biofilm from reforming within 48 hours

Wide application
•  Indicated for ulcers (pressure, leg, diabetic foot), surgical 

wounds and first/second degree burns

Centrally positioned PHMB foam pad
•  Rapidly absorbs exudate, reducing the risk of maceration

Perforated wound contact layer
•  Ensures dressing stays in place and reduces risk of newly 

formed granulation tissue penetrating the foam

Silver Post-Op
Contains silver
•  Prevents colonisation and proliferation of bacteria in 

the dressing

Unique ergonomic dressing shape
•  Developed in conjunction with surgeons in the EU and US 

•  Patent protected shape developed for knee anthroplasties

Strong peri-wound adhesion
•  Ensures the dressing remains in place for the full wear time

Comfortable and conformable
•  Allows mobility of the joint, aiding recovery, with low friction

Excellent fluid handling capabilities
•  Ensures exudate is managed appropriately

•  Maintains a moist wound environment, conducive for healing

Waterproof bacterial barrier
•  Facilitates showering and acts as a barrier to bacterial penetration

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

15 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsCreating Quality Products through Acquisitions

Sealantis – Harnessing the 
Natural Power of the Sea

Products
Sealantis develops innovative products for a wide variety of 
applications and clinical needs in internal surgery. Sealantis’ 
pipeline is focused on products which are safe, biocompatible, 
easy to use and cost effective. The products have significant 
competitive advantages over existing market leading products in 
this space: 

•  Seal-G Surgical Sealant (CE Marked) and Seal-G MIST (Minimally 

Invasive Spray Technology) are designed for a wide range 
of internal surgical applications, including to reinforce and 
protect gastrointestinal anastomoses, which aim to reduce the 
occurrence of post-surgical leaks 

•  Seal-G MIST is at the advanced development phase and 

has undergone a comprehensive series of preclinical and 
biocompatibility testing. A clinical trial of 80 subjects is planned 
in 2019

•  Seal-V is designed for the rapid control of bleeding during 

various vascular procedures

Sealantis acquisition: 

•  Access to the internal sealants market

•  Transaction completed for US$25m (approx. £19m) in 

cash with royalties due until December 2027 on sales of 
any of its products that are currently in development

•  Innovative technology to enter the US$1 billion internal 

sealants market

•  First product expected to enter European market 

from H1 2021

•  Significant potential for multiple, additional internal 
sealant products and indications, including Neuro, 
Orthopedic, and Cardiovascular surgery indications

•  Part of AMS’s growth strategy of acquisitions which 

have synergies with the AMS Portfolio

Who are Sealantis
Sealantis is an Israeli-based medical device company formed 
in 2007 with a patent-protected, alga-mimetic sealants 
technology platform with a wide range of potential surgical 
indications under development. The alga-mimetic tissue 
adhesive technology was discovered by the world-renowned 
Technion (Israel Institute of Technology), and has since been 
extensively tested for clinical use.

Platform differentiation 

CE  
0344

Israeli 
medical device  
start-up founded 
by AMIT  
(Alfred Mann 
Institute Technion)

Alga-mimetic 
tissue adhesive 
technology platform

Focused on 
Surgical products 

Product CE 
Marked (Jan 2018)

Successfully 
completed First 
in Human clinical 
study (Jan 2017)

Raw  
Material

Operations

Application  
Methods

This adhesive technology mimics the underwater adherence 
mechanism of algae, providing it with a superior ability to stick 
to tissues and grafts even in a wet environment. The adhesives 
are bioresorbable (degrade in the body) and do not contain 
proteins (this eliminating potential immunogenic and 
allergic risks).

•  Natural 

(plant based)

•  Protein free  

(no immunogenic  
risk)

•  Commonly used  
for woundcare

•  Low  

manufacturing  
costs

•  Room temp  
handling and  
storage

Spreading

Spraying

16 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Strategic linkage for Sealantis

Growth

Innovation

Chris Meredith, CEO of AMS, commented:

“The acquisition of Sealantis is in line with 
our strategy to acquire technologies that are 
complementary to our surgical portfolio as well 
as allowing us to leverage our global routes to 
market. It enhances our access to a significant 
and high-margin market in internal surgery. We 
are particularly excited to welcome Sealantis’ 
innovation team of R&D experts to AMS and 
look forward to working alongside them to 
develop the technology in a wide range of 
potential applications and indications.”

Synergies with AMS and the future:
The Sealantis technology platform has multiple synergies with 
AMS, most notably in:

•  Sales
•  Marketing

•  Regulatory
•  Operational

The acquisition significantly strengthens the Group’s product 
portfolio for internal sealants and fixation devices, sitting 
alongside AMS’s LiquiBand Fix8® laparoscopic and LiquiBand 
Fix8® open fixation devices. The chart below outlines how our 
products fit into the Fixation, Sealant and Haemostats market.

>$3.3bn 
Fixation,  
Sealants &  
Haemostats  
market2

Alga-M imetic Tissue Adhesiv es

Fixation

Sealants

Haemostats

>$0.5bn

>$1bn

>$1.8bn

Topical Haemostats >$0.9bn

The need for  
Effective Sealants 
To minimise intra and  
post-operative complications

Bowel content leak

CSF leak

Air leak

Blood leak

Bile leak

Surgery
Internal  
wound

Leak
Wound closure  
complications

Impact
Clinical  
Outcome  
& Cost

GI (Gastrointestinal) 
surgery

Neurosurgery

Cardiac Surgery

Vascular Surgery

Lung Surgery

Plastic Surgery

General Surgery

Mortality rate 

Hospitalisation time

Complications rate

Post-op recovery time

The Clinical Need…
To minimise intra and post-operative complications. 

Gastrointestinal leakage is associated with high rates of post-
up complications, cost, re-operation and mortality as set 
out below 1:

Increased post-op 
stay by:

9 days

Mortality rate

 9%

30-day 
readmission rate

Additional hospital 
costs/case

>2x
…and market opportunity

 $25k

Fixation

Sealants

Haemostats

>$0.5bn

>$1bn

>$1.8bn

>$3.3bn 
Fixation,  
Sealants &  
Haemostats  
market2

AMS plans to rapidly maximise the value of the investment by 
continuing to invest in the existing Sealantis innovation centre 
and accelerating the commercialisation of the laparoscopic and 
open variants of Seal-G. 

Worldwide 
procedures

>6m

Opportunity

>$1bn

1   Source: Hammond et al. J Gastrointest Surg, 2014 , DOI 10.1007/s11605–014–2506–4 

(n= 6,174)

2   Internal knowledge, SmartTRAK Hemostats & Sealants, BioMedGPS LLC, Allied Market 

Research, IMS, GHX

Alga-M imetic Tissue Adhesiv es

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

17 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsOur Key Performance Indicators

Measuring success

The Group has a range of Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s) which are used to monitor Group 
performance, operations and measure progress against our strategy.

Financial KPIs

Revenue growth at constant currency1 % 

% of revenue spend on R&D & Innovation

7%

7%

2018

12%

 2017

13%

 2016

11%

 2015

9%

2014

5.8%

5.8%

2018

4.4%

 2017

4.4%

 2016

3.7%

 2015

3.8%

2014

Definition
Net revenue adjusted for constant currency1.

Strategic linkage 
Continued growth in revenue demonstrates the successful execution 
of the Group’s strategy. It is a contributing factor to our aim of 
providing long-term value for our shareholders.

Progress made in the year
Revenue has increased by 6% to £102.6 million (2017: £96.9 million) 
in 2018 and by 7% on a constant currency basis. 

Definition
Spend on R&D & Innovation as a % of total expenditure in the 
financial year.

Strategic linkage 
As a developer of innovative and technologically advanced products 
investing resources in this area is critical to fulfilling the strategic goals 
of the business.

Progress made in the year
Spend increased by 25% in 2018 to 5.8% of revenue (2017: 4.4% of 
revenue). As highlighted by our acquisition of Sealantis and strategic 
goals related to Innovation, we expect to continue to increase our 
spend in this area during 2019. 

Adjusted diluted earnings per share (EPS) growth %

 % of sales from new products launched in the previous 
five years

13%

13%

2018

23%

 2017

12%

 2016

10%

 2015

14%

2014

24.6%

24.6%

2018

23.7%

 2017

11.8%

 2016

11.2%

 2015

2014 – no data available

Definition
Growth in adjusted2 diluted EPS achieved in the year. EPS is an 
important factor to our aim of providing value for our shareholders.

Definition
This is a measure of the % of sales the Group is generating from 
products launched in the five years prior to that year.

Strategic linkage 
EPS is a measure of corporate profitability and the Group’s financial 
progress. It is also an important factor to our aim of providing value 
for our shareholders.

Strategic linkage 
As a company focused on innovation and with a number of patented 
products and technologies, this is an important measure of the 
success of our innovation programme, a stated strategic aim.

Progress made in the year
Adjusted diluted EPS has increased by 13% to 10.71p (2017: 9.46p).

Progress made in the year
% of sales increased to 24.6% of revenue (2017: 23.7% of revenue). 
We expect this to accelerate in 2019 due to our strong product 
pipeline and as our recent product launches become established 
in the market.

1  Constant currency removes the effect of currency movements by re-translating the current period’s performance at the previous period’s exchange rates.

2   All items are shown before exceptional items which were £0.4 million (2017: £nil) and amortisation of acquired intangible assets which were £0.1 million (2017: £0.1 million) as defined in the 

Financial Review.

18 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

 
Key to strategic linkage in this report

Growth

Innovation

Operational Excellence

Culture

Year-over-year change of our standard cost base %

Staff retention/turnover %

2.4%
(increase)

2.4%

2018

 2017 – no data available

 2016 – no data available

 2015 – no data available

10%

10%

2018

 2017 – no data available

 2016 – no data available

 2015 – no data available

The data is only presented for 2018.

The data was only available for 2018.

Definition
Measures the reduction in standard cost base3 against prior year. 

Strategic linkage 
Cost reduction is a key metric as operating margin is no longer a 
KPI. Continued improvements in cost reduction demonstrates the 
successful execution of strategy and is important for the sustainability 
of the Group.

Progress made in the year
The standard cost base increased by 2.4% in 2018. The target in 
2019 is a 2% reduction, with preparations being made to target a 4% 
reduction in 2020. The appointment of a Chief Operations Officer in 
2018 will help to drive achievement of this target.

Definition
The % of staff who have left the Group during the year (gross number 
of leavers). 

Strategic linkage 
Low levels of staff turnover are critical for the future success of the 
business. Low levels of turnover increase employee engagement and 
the embedding of the Care, Fair, Dare culture.

Progress made in the year
Staff turnover was 10% in 2018, (2017: 8%), in line with 10% that is 
considered beneficial for a business, and lower than the national 
average of 15%.

Non-financial KPI’s

Customer service (OTIF) %

Employee Engagement Score %

83%

83%

2018

93%

 2017

90%

 2016

96%

 2015

99%

2014

41%

41%

2018

 2017 – no data available

 2016 – no data available

 2015 – no data available

No data is available prior to 2018.

Definition
On Time in Full (OTIF) is a measure of whether we delivered on our 
commitment to provide excellent service to our customers.

Strategic linkage 
OTIF is important both in terms of contractual commitment and 
customer retention.

Progress made in the year
OTIF decreased to 83% (2017: 93%), impacted by back orders created 
by product availability due to re-certification. Following successful 
recertification of RESORBA products and the reduction of back 
orders in early 2019, we expect OTIF to increase. 

Definition
Of the employees who responded to the Employee Survey, the % of 
employees who had seen positive action from the implementation 
of Care, Fair, Dare culture. 

Strategic linkage 
This % indicates how successfully we have embedded our culture. 
An increasing score indicates more engaged employees, leading to 
higher productivity and higher retention.

Progress made in the year
2018 was the first full year of Care, Fair, Dare. While we are satisfied 
with the score of 41%, we aim to increase this to above 50% in 2019.

3  Reduction in average standard cost of production assuming no change in product mix.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

19 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsOur Business Units

Branded

Overview
The Branded (Surgical) Business Unit includes sales, marketing, 
research, development and innovation of our surgical products 
and the ActivHeal product range, which will become part of the 
Woundcare Business Unit in 2019. It is engaged principally in 
delivering needed and differentiated devices to surgeons to close 
and seal wounds and to reduce the incidence of various surgical 
complications. We sell our products via a combination of direct 
sales forces, distribution partners, and hybrid approaches. 

Branded revenue

£62.1m

Revenue increased by 12% at 
reported currency and by 13% 
at constant currency.
(2017: £55.2 million).

With an exciting R&D pipeline, 
opportunities from the 
Sealantis acquisition and 
regulatory approvals underway, 
we are optimistic about our 
ability to continue to deliver 
meaningful benefits to 
patients across the world.”

Jeff Willis
Business Unit Director

Advanced Closure

Traditional Closure

Advanced Closure is comprised predominately of the 
LiquiBand® topical skin adhesive range incorporating 
medical cyanoacrylate adhesives in purpose built applicators. 
These products are used to close and protect a broad variety 
of surgical and traumatic wounds.

Advanced Closure

2018 

2017 

Americas

22,963

18,195

UK/Germany

ROW

TOTAL

5,585

3,171

5,344

2,498

31,719

26,038

Reported 
Growth

Growth at 
constant 
currency

26%

5%

27%

22%

30%

4%

27%

24%

Growth
As we continue to take market share, launch new products 
and expand into new markets, revenue increased by 22% 
to £31.7 million (2017: £26.0 million). Our market share in 
the key US market increased by 2% during the year. We saw 
strong growth with ocytl-based product variants. 

Innovation
2018 saw the successful launch of the LiquiBand® Exceed 
mini product line in the US, which is geared to smaller 
wounds and we expect to launch our large wound closure 
device by the end of 2019.

Future
LiquiBand® TSAs compare favourably with the existing market 
leader in wound closure and tensile strength, set time, ease 
of use and adhesive yield. Despite increasing competition we 
are confident that product line and geographical expansion 
will drive further growth in Advanced Closure.

20 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Traditional Closure consists of RESORBA® branded 
absorbable and non-absorbable sutures.

Growth
Revenue growth in the period was restricted by the 
regulatory challenges, increasing by 1% to £13.3 million 
(2017: £13.1 million) with a number of new accounts recently 
won in the UK and China. Growth has also been driven by 
particular variants for certain surgical specialties, including 
dental and ophthalmic. 

Innovation
The sutures category is well established and AMS has a 
full range of products. An improved range of absorbable 
sutures is planned for launch in 2019 and we continue to 
invest resources in developing further variants for specialty 
areas such as dental and ophthalmic and also plan to 
upgrade long-term absorption, monofilament and steel wire 
product ranges.

Future
Whilst the suture category is complex and mature, AMS will 
continue to explore targeted opportunities in this area and 
derive benefit by bundling with other products. 

We will continue our full range focus in Germany including 
commitment contracts with major Germany buying Groups, 
and ‘full house’ suture account conversions. We hope to 
leverage specialty suture wins (and bundle with commitment 
contracts) and expand in local distributed geographies 
(China, USA) and focal specialty areas (Dental).

Sales by product area

Branded Business Unit

2018

2017

Reported 
Growth

Growth at 
constant 
currency

Advanced Closure

31,719

26,038

22%

24%

Internal Fixation  
and Sealants

2,066

1,706

21%

21%

Traditional Closure

13,342

13,147

Biosurgical Devices

8,640

8,036

Advanced Woundcare*

6,293

6,318

1%

8%

0%

1%

6%

0%

TOTAL

62,060

55,244

12%

13%

*  In order to take advantage of the opportunities foreseen, this segment will be incorporated into 

OEM (Woundcare) in 2019.

Strategy
Deploy our core skills in adhesives/sealants, applicator design, and 
biosurgicals to help surgeons achieve the best outcome for their 
patients. We will do this by investing in innovation, working with Key 
Opinion Leaders, and following a disciplined project-based approach to 
deliver both new and improved products. We aim to:

•  Continue to grow LiquiBand® by targeting larger accounts and Health 
Providers in the US, engaging new distribution partners in the EU and 
developing the Asia Pacific and Latin American markets

•  Launching product upgrades and new products into the market
•  Expanding sales of LiquiBand Fix8® into key territories in Asia Pacific 
•  Introduce Open Fix8® across Europe and key territories
•  Expand use of Biosurgical products across the EU and other 

territories using clinical evidence and industry Groups
•  Progress key regulatory approvals for antibiotic collagens
•  Upgrade and develop suture range to drive sales in new and existing 

territories, leveraging experience of speciality suture wins

Biosurgical Devices

Internal Fixation and Sealants

Biosurgicals is principally composed of collagen-based 
materials including RESORBA® Gentacoll® Gentamycin 
Collagen products used in Orthopedic and Cardiac 
applications, and Collagen fleeces and cones used in 
Dental applications.

Growth
Biosurgicals delivered 8% growth in 2018 to £8.6 million 
(2017: £8.0 million) driven by success in Asia and with some 
of our European distributors. 

Innovation
In 2018, AMS broadened its range of Dura substitute 
products and Dental membranes. We conducted our first 
prescription usage of an antibiotic collagen pouch for cardiac 
implantable electronic devices, such as pacemakers, in 
Germany. Antibiotic loaded collagens provide local, rather 
than systemic, drug delivery giving significant patient and 
environmental benefits. We are working on development and 
regulatory activities for alternative antibiotics for Orthopedic 
and Cardiac applications.

Future
There are significant opportunities to expand Dental and 
Surgical use of our biosurgical products across the EU in 
Dental, Septic Surgery, and Neuro applications. We will 
partner with Key industry Groups who will help us to educate 
and promote the usage of AMS products and support the 
Biosurgical range into new territories. 

We aim to progress other new regulatory approvals for novel 
antibiotic loaded collagens in both US and the EU.

This category comprises LiquiBand® Fix8™ devices, which 
are indicated for internal fixation of hernia meshes. Using our 
cyanoacrylate adhesive, hernia meshes are held in place in 
the body instead of traditional tacks and staples. 

Growth
Revenue increased 21% to £2.1 million (2017: £1.7 million). 
After design enhancements to our LiquiBand Fix8® 
laparoscopic device, the product showed strong growth from 
Q2 and has received very positive feedback from surgeons.

Innovation
In late 2018, we launched LiquiBand Fix8® for open surgery, 
which is a substantial portion of the global hernia market and 
can be used for both mesh fixation and final wound closure. 

We are committed to making LiquiBand Fix8® available to 
patients in the US and substantial progress on Pre Market 
Approval (PMA) preparation has been made, with patient 
enrolment for the clinical study in H1 2019. 

Future
The global internal surgery market is a significant opportunity 
for AMS and, with the acquisition of Sealantis in January 2019, 
we now have multiple adhesive/sealant technologies to 
develop in combination with our applicator design expertise.

Potential applications are broad but will include applications 
around Gastro Intestinal procedures and prevention of 
vessel leakage.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

21 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsOur Business Units continued

OEM

Overview
The OEM (Woundcare) Business Unit is responsible for driving 
sales through our business to business partners and third party 
convertors by supplying a comprehensive multi product-portfolio 
of advanced woundcare products. We partner with world-leading 
woundcare companies, developing innovative products with 
differentiated claims and providing regulatory and clinical support 
for our partners to distribute under their own brands.

We are well positioned to meet the raised standards of the 
Medical Device Regulation (MDR), providing the clinical evidence, 
marketing collateral and regulatory support our partners require. 

We are excited by 
the progress made in 
2018 linked to product 
approvals in the infection 
management area, which 
are the cornerstones of 
our innovation pipeline.”

Becky Walmsley
Business Unit Director

Infection Management

Exudate Management

The Infection Management category comprises advanced 
woundcare dressings that incorporate antimicrobials such as 
Silver and Polyhexamethylene Biguanide (PHMB).

The Exudate Management category comprises advanced 
woundcare dressings which do not incorporate any 
antimicrobial elements.

Growth
Revenue in Exudate Management was impacted by 
reimbursement changes in certain countries and increased 
lower cost competition and consequently declined by 
6% to £16.0 million (2017: £17.0 million) and by 5% at 
constant currency.

Innovation
On a positive note, we launched our new Lite foam product 
range, secured a new US partner and expanded into Latin 
America following successful approval in Brazil. We are 
working on extending the Lite foam portfolio with a range of 
shapes and sizes for the acute post surgery market and also 
extending the claims on our silicone foam range for pressure 
ulcer prevention.

Future
We intend to continue commercial expansion into emerging 
markets with new partners and to develop clinically relevant 
differentiated products with enhanced performance. 

Growth
Revenue of antimicrobial dressings increased by 1% to 
£19.6 million (2017 £19.4 million) and by 2% at constant currency.

Innovation
In Q4 we launched our silver post-operative dressing with 
a major US partner. This is an ergonomic dressing for total 
joint arthroplasty, with approximately 1.6 million procedures 
performed annually in the US.

Following FDA approval we launched our premium PHMB 
foam range into the US in Q4, which has enhanced product 
performance in terms of rapid microbial activity and 
eradication of pathogens. The market for antimicrobial foams 
in the US and EU is approximately £100 million and growing.

In H2 2019, we expect to extend our infection management 
portfolio with an antimicrobial high performance dressing 
and a range of products addressing skin infections on intact 
skin. We are also developing next generation high gelling 
products with differentiated antibiofilm claims. 

Future
We are committed to driving growth in the infection 
management area through life cycle management and 
expansion of the portfolio into adjacent segments. We are 
developing clinically relevant and efficacious products 
and expanding the innovation pipeline into the high value 
accelerated wound healing segment. We continue to 
investigate licensing strategic technologies to enter new 
market segments. 

22 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

OEM revenue

£40.5m

* Revenue decreased by 3% at 
reported currency and by 2% at 
constant currency.
-3% (2017: £41.7m)

Sales by product area

2018

2017

Reported 
Growth

Growth at 
constant 
currency

OEM Business Unit

Infection 
Management

Exudate 
Management

19,622

19,368

16,041

17,004

Other Woundcare

4,874

5,292

TOTAL

40,538

41,664

1%

-6%

-8%

-3%

2%

-5%

-6%

-2%

Other Woundcare

Royalties, fee income and sealants used in woundcare.

Growth
Other Woundcare revenue decreased by 8% to £4.9 million 
(2017 £5.3 million) and by 6% at constant currency due 
to reduced Organogenesis royalties of £1.8 million 
(2017: £2.5 million) as end sales were impacted by lower 
reimbursement levels for most of the year.

Innovation
Our skin protection range of products has been expanded via 
a new five-year global supply agreement with a key partner. 
This next generation launch addresses the market need of 
products for patients affected by prolonged exposure to moisture. 

Future
We will continue to evaluate the different ways our skin 
protection products can enhance the patient’s quality of life 
and help with the wound healing process. 

ActivHeal®

The realignment of the Business Units in 2019 to incorporate 
ActivHeal® into the woundcare division will enable the 
Business Unit to have direct access to clinicians, with a more 
focused approach and simplified decision making structure, 
with commercial and R&D synergies. 

Strategy
To be the partner of choice for innovative differentiated 
products enabling our customers to be successful 
through full design, development, manufacturing and 
distribution services supported by in-house regulatory, 
clinical and marketing professionals. To achieve this 
AMS will:

•  Expand the product portfolio via a multi-year 

innovative product development pipeline into growth 
segments, utilising close links to universities to 
enhance innovation 

•  Invest in our people to provide guidance to ensure 

compliance with the changing regulatory and clinical 
landscape, supporting expansion into new markets 

•  Gain product approvals by leveraging in-

house expertise

•  Expansion into emerging markets with our partners

•  Invest to enhance our reputation for high quality, 
customer service, regulatory and clinical support

•  Gain access to end users and develop a network of  

Key Opinion Leaders (KOL)

•  Ensure our intellectual property is safeguarded to 

protect our product portfolio 

•  Expansion of the portfolio into the post-acute market 

segment and next generation of PHMB products

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

23 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsFinancial Review

The Group delivered another  
strong financial performance

Eddie Johnson
Chief Financial Officer

Summary
The Group delivered another strong financial performance, 
with a 12% increase in profit before tax and a 6% increase in 
reported revenue. At constant currency, revenue increased 
by 7% with currency movements reducing revenue by 
approximately £0.9 million during the year.

To provide the clearest possible insight into our performance, 
the Group uses alternative performance measures. 
These measures are not defined in International Financial 
reporting Standards (IFRS) and, therefore, are considered to 
be non-GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) 
measures. Accordingly, the relevant IFRS measures are 
also presented where appropriate, We use such measures 
consistently at the half year and full year and reconcile them 
as appropriate. The measures used in this statement include 
constant currency revenue growth, adjusted operating 
margin, adjusted profit before tax and adusted EPS, allowing 
the impacts of exchange rate volatility, exceptional items 
and amortisation to be separately identified. Net cash is an 
additional non-GAAP measure used. The Group incurred 

exceptional costs of £0.4 million in the year relating mainly 
to the acquisition of Sealantis (2017: £nil) and amortisation 
of acquired intangibles of £0.1 million (2017: £0.1 million). 

Administration costs excluding exceptional items increased 
by 4.3% to £33.6 million (2017: £32.2 million) with increased 
investment in R&D, regulatory and sales and marketing 
being partially offset by favourable movements on currency 
contracts. The Group incurred £6.0 million of gross R&D, 
regulatory and clinical spend in the year (2017: £4.3 million), 
representing 5.8% of sales (2017: 4.4%), with increased 
regulatory costs incurred due to the recertification of Suture 
and Collagen products.

Adjusted operating margin increased by 180 bps to 28.0% 
(2017: 26.2%) and operating margin increased by 150 bps to 
27.5% (2017: 26.0%) due to positive sales mix and favourable 
currency contracts.

Adjusted profit before tax increased by 14% to £28.9 million 
(2017: £25.4 million) and profit before tax increased by 12% to 
£28.4 million (2017: £25.3 million). 

Reconciliation of profit before tax to adjusted profit before tax

Profit before tax

Amortisation of acquired intangibles

Exceptional items 

Adjusted profit before tax

2018 
£’000

2017 
£’000

28,434

25,277

81

402

134

–

28,917

25,411

The Group’s effective tax rate, reflecting the blended tax rates 
in the countries where we operate and including UK patent box 
relief, was unchanged at 20.3% (2017: 20.3%).

Adjusted diluted earnings per share increased by 13% to 10.71p 
(2017: 9.46p) and diluted earnings per share increased by 12% to 
10.48p (2017: 9.39p).

The Board is proposing a final dividend of 0.90p per share, to be 
paid on 14 June 2019 to shareholders on the register at the close 
of business on 24 May 2019. This follows the interim dividend of 
0.42p per share paid on 26 October 2018 and would, if approved, 
make a total dividend for the year of 1.32p per share (2017: 1.10p), 
a 20% increase on 2017.

24 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Operating result by business segment

Year ended 31 December 2018

Revenue 

Profit from operations

Amortisation of acquired intangibles

Adjusted profit from operations5

Adjusted operating margin5

Year ended 31 December 2017

Revenue 

Profit from operations

Amortisation of acquired intangibles

Adjusted profit from operations5

Adjusted operating margin5

5 

 Adjusted for exceptional items and for amortisation of acquired intangible assets. 
Table is reconciled to statutory information in Note 4 of the financial information. 

Branded
The adjusted operating margin of the Branded Business Unit 
increased by 320 basis points to 29.4% (2017: 26.2%), supported 
by sales growth, beneficial sales mix and favourable currency 
movements. Operating costs increased, especially sales, 
marketing, R&D and regulatory costs, to continue to support 
ongoing growth. 

OEM 
The adjusted operating margin of the OEM Business Unit 
decreased slightly to 27.1% (2017: 27.3%), mainly due to the 
reduced royalty from Organogenesis in the period. 

Currency
More than one third of Group revenues are invoiced in US Dollars 
and approximately one quarter are invoiced in Euros. The Group 
hedges significant currency transaction exposure by using 
forward contracts, and aims to hedge approximately 80% of its 
estimated transactional exposure for the next 12 to 18 months. 
The Group estimates that a 10% movement in the £:US$ or £:€ 
exchange rates will impact Sterling revenues by approximately 
3.6% and 2.5% respectively and in the absence of any hedging this 
would have an impact on profit of 3.0% and 0.7%.

Branded  
£’000

OEM 
£’000

62,060

40,538

18,197

10,985

76

5

18,273

10,990

29.4%

27.1%

55,244

14,336

125

14,461

26.2%

41,664

11,354

9

11,363

27.3%

Cash Flow
Net cash inflow from operating activities increased by 20% to 
£20.4 million (2017: £17.0 million), and at the end of the period, 
the Group had net cash of £76.4 million (2017: £62.5 million).

Working capital increased during the year mainly due to trade 
receivables being £6.8 million higher, which was caused by a 
change in customer mix (more US customers on longer payment 
terms), sales phasing (impacted by new product launch dates and 
also some product availability issues relating to the recertification 
of RESORBA® products) and currency movements. Debtor days 
increased to 47 days (2017: 41 days) mainly due to the increased 
proportion of US debtors which are on longer payment terms. 
Inventory also increased during the year as we intentionally built 
stock levels to mitigate possible supply risks from recertification 
and Brexit, with inventory months increasing to 4.7 months 
(2017: 4.2 months of supply). Creditor days increased to 31 days 
(2017: 27 days).

In the year, we invested £4.7 million in capital equipment, R&D 
and regulatory costs (2017: £4.5 million).

Cash outflow relating to taxation decreased to £3.8 million 
(2017: £4.5 million) due to the timing of tax payments on account.

The Group paid its final dividend for the year ended 31 December 
2017 of £1.6 million on 15 June 2018 (2017: for the year ending 
2016, £1.3 million), and its interim dividend for the six months 
ended 30 June 2018 of £0.9 million (2017: £0.7 million) on 
26 October 2018. 

In December 2018, the Group secured a new £80 million, 
multi-currency credit facility with a £20 million accordion option. 
The credit facility is provided jointly by HSBC and The Royal Bank 
of Scotland and is in place until December 2023. It is unsecured 
and has not been drawn down. This facility carries an annual 
interest rate of LIBOR or EURIBOR plus a margin that varies 
between 0.60% and 1.70% depending on the Group’s net debt 
to EBITDA ratio.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

25 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsCorporate Social Responsibility

Ensuring that our business is 
conducted in a responsible manner

We continually review our business 
practices to ensure that our 
business operates in a responsible 
manner with respect to Employees, 
Ethical Standards, Health, Safety, 
Environment and Community.
We remain committed to 
continuous improvement.

Main Board

Total Employees

6

654

Male
Female

4
2

Male
Female

46%
54%

Senior Management Team

10

Male
Female

6
4

As at 31 December 2018

Employees
At AMS our employees drive the success of our business. 
We focus on creating an engaging place to work where 
employees are able to develop and are challenged to achieve 
both their ambitions and the long-term strategic goals of the 
business. With over 600 employees globally, AMS is focused on 
hiring and developing the right calibre of people and providing 
an environment where individuals can deliver to the best of 
their capabilities.

We recognise the importance of our people and that it is only 
by their effective engagement that we will continue to be highly 
successful. We value their commitment and determination to 
achieve and deliver good results. Our working environment 
encourages openness, teamwork, an understanding of others’ 
needs and the ability ‘to make a difference’. Employees at all 
levels are encouraged to make the fullest possible contribution 
to the Group’s success.

We develop the talent at AMS by training with programmes such 
as the Management Development Programme and principles of 
Lean Manufacturing, and by providing a place to work where our 
employees feel valued, incentivised and fulfilled. We continue 
to support a number of apprenticeship schemes and graduate 
recruitments across the Group and intend to expand the number 
of schemes we operate in 2019.

AMS promotes two way communication with employees who 
are encouraged to put forward their views to the Company 
through both our monthly briefing meetings and also through 
our employee surveys. Employees are encouraged to participate 
in suggesting and implementing improvements across the 
Group. In 2019 we introduced an electronic system to enable 
all employees to openly ask the Senior Management Team 
questions. We listen to all views, take feedback and pro-
actively provide information allowing us to remain agile and 
customer centric.

AMS has policies and procedures in place for Anti-Bribery and 
Corruption, which are reviewed and updated annually by the 
Audit Committee.

Employee Diversity
We are committed to actively encouraging a more inclusive and 
diverse workplace and look for opportunities to reinforce this 
where appropriate, although we continue to recruit on merit. 
The Group is committed to eliminating all forms of discrimination 
and giving fair and equal treatment to all employees and job 
applicants in terms of recruitment, pay conditions, promotions, 
training and all employment matters regardless of their age, 
disability, race, sex, sexual orientation, marriage and civil 
partnership, pregnancy and maternity, gender reassignment, 
religion or beliefs. The female representation on the Board, Senior 
Management Team and across the Group at the year-end is 
shown on this page.

26 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Strategic linkage

Culture

The Advanced Medical Solutions’ ‘Care, Fair, Dare’ Approach

A culture of:

A focus on:

A behavioural 
style which is:

A leadership style which:

A set of values which:

•  Listening, support 
and taking action

•  Quality
•   The ‘Bigger Picture’

•    Open minded
•    Respectful

Care

•  Valuing  

contribution

•  Builds  

engagement
•  Motivates and 
retains staff

•  Accountability 

and responsibility

•  Leading by  
example

•  Supporting 

and coaching
•  The team not 
the individual

•  Transparent
•  Inclusive

•  Proactively 

communicates

•  Empowers 

decision making

•  Optimism 

with realism
•  Determination 
and persistence

•   Solutions 

not problems
•   Continuous 
improvement

•  Responsive
•  Creative

•   Challenges the 

status quo

•   Removes barriers 
to innovation

Fair

Dare

•  Encourages pride and 
sense of belonging

•  Ensures that the 
health, safety 
and well-being 
of all employees 
is paramount
•  Delivers results
•  Will build a 

sustainable future

Culture
AMS is highly dependent on the innovation and creativity of our 
employees for our future growth and success. We aim to operate 
to the highest ethical standards. We have adopted and embedded 
‘AMS Care, Fair, Dare’ to summarise our culture, underpin our 
values, and to deliver results, building a sustainable future for our 
business. Under Care, Fair, Dare, we have defined the principles 
and expectations of how we will operate together to deliver 
success as the Company continues to grow. Care, Fair, Dare 
provides a cultural framework to nurture the ways in which we 
interact and achieve success as a team.

Throughout 2018, all employees attended cultural workshops, 
focusing on developing action plans to embed Care, Fair, Dare 
into their teams. We have listened to the feedback which has 
been received and developed our principles and expectations. 
These will now form part of our appraisal system and recruitment 
of potential new employees. Employees have personal objectives 
which directly link to the business’ corporate objectives and 
receive feedback on competencies via a 360 degree review 
based on our culture of Care, Fair, Dare to ensure achievements 
align with the culture we wish to embed.

In 2018 we introduced ‘One AMS’, a Group Quality Management 
System, to further integrate the Group, through a Group Quality 
Management System, and embed the AMS culture. This will be 
further developed in 2019.

Measuring success
From 2019 we will increase our focus on employees and culture 
by introducing the measurement of our Employee Engagement 
Score and Staff Retention/Turnover as Key Performance 
Indicators within our strategic pillar of Culture. 

Ethical Standards
We recognise the importance of operating a business in an 
ethical manner.

AMS has set appropriate standards and policies to uphold all laws 
relevant to prevention of bribery and corruption in all jurisdictions 
in which we operate. The Group also has in place policies and 
procedures covering Gifts and Hospitality, Whistleblowing, the 
Modern Slavery Act, the Market Abuse Regulations, General Data 
Protection Regulations, the Criminal Finance Act and Equality.

AMS has introduced compulsory Ethics Training which all Group 
employees must complete to reinforce their understanding of the 
policies in place.

Disabled employees
Applications for employment by disabled persons are always 
fully considered, bearing in mind the aptitudes of the applicant 
concerned. In the event of members of staff becoming disabled 
every effort is made to ensure that their employment with the 
group continues and that appropriate training is arranged. It is 
the policy of the group that the training, career development 
and promotion of disabled persons should, as far as possible, 
be identical to that of other employees.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

27 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsCorporate Social Responsibility continued

Supply Chain
Our Sourcing Policy requires suppliers to confirm they engage 
in ethical treatment of employees and observe prevailing laws in 
relation to other ethical issues, and ensures that suppliers:

•  Do not employ any forced, bonded or involuntary labour

•  Do not use child labour

•  Provide safe and hygienic working conditions

•  Take adequate steps to prevent accidents and injury to health 
arising out of, associated with, or occurring in the course 
of employment

•  Pay wages and benefits and apply working hours for a standard 
working week that are no less than the applicable minimum 
national legal standard

•  Do not discriminate on grounds of gender, age, religion, 

political affiliation or sexual orientation

•  Do not permit harsh or inhumane treatment of its employees;

•  Do not supply equipment used in the unethical treatment 

of individuals

•  Do not supply or trade in any banned or proscribed substances 

or materials in breach of the prevailing laws

•  Do not engage in practices that amount to bribery

•  Respect and seek to avoid any unlawful infringement of the 

intellectual property rights of third parties

28 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Health, Safety and Environment
We are focused on maintaining the highest levels of health and 
safety within our business which ensures employees feel safe and 
secure within the working environment. The Health and Safety 
of our staff, visitors to our facilities, and those who carry out 
work on our behalf, is of the utmost importance. Identifying and 
complying with applicable legislation underpins our Health and 
Safety activities and improvement initiatives.

The Board provides Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) 
leadership and the Chief Executive Officer has primary 
responsibility for setting the principles. The Chief Operations 
Officer, supported by the Group Operations Director, ensures 
adequate resource is available to support operational health, 
safety and environmental improvement plans.

We have established HSE Committees at each site which 
meet monthly. These Committees report monthly to the 
Senior Management Team and to the Board. We focus on the 
prevention of accidents and incidents through proactive reporting 
of potential hazards.

Over the last 12 months we have focused our resources 
to improve the level of accountability and expectation for 
continuous improvement in Health and Safety. Initiatives to 
improve involvement and accountability will continue over 
the foreseeable future to help us to further reduce our 
accident potential.

Safety Performance 2018
AMS continues to deliver solid safety performance with an AIR 
score significantly better than the target of 6.0. Our All Injury 
Rate (AIR) was 4.1 in 2018 (2017: 2.3). This rise was driven by an 
increase in minor accidents at our Etten Leur and RESORBA 
facilities, the root causes of which have since been addressed 
through improved personal protection equipment (PPE) and 
procedures. Our AIR is measured as follows:

AIR = Total number of injuries x 100,000

Total labour hours worked

AIR

(per 100,000)

4.1

2018

2.3

 2017

5.4

 2016

4.3

 2015

5.8

2014

AMS reconfirms its goal to continuously improve our safety 
performance introducing a new goal of an AIR score below 4, 
with increased focus on safety culture. We will continue to take 
proactive initiatives to ensure AIR remains below this new target. 
We will also further invest in Health and Safety across the Group 
with the appointment of a Group Health and Safety Manager 
in 2019. 

Environment
It is the Group’s policy to abide by all laws, directives and 
regulations relevant to its field of operations and to act in a 
manner so as to minimise the effects of our operations on 
the environment.

As AMS has operations across a number of countries, local 
management drives environmental performance. Specific, 
site-level objectives are established to ensure compliance 
with local legislative and external management system 
requirements. AMS uses a variety of indicators to monitor 
environmental performance.

Community
We are committed to supporting and having a positive interaction 
with our local communities and encouraging our employees, 
families and friends to participate where possible.

AMS sponsors a number of sports charities and clubs in the area. 
We have sponsored the annual Pie & Peas 5 mile race for five 
years, which is organised by Vale Royal A.C., the local athletics 
club based in Winsford, Cheshire. As well as sponsoring this 
local race, employees are encouraged to participate in pre-
race training programmes to foster employee well being as 
well as enjoying good-humoured rivalry. In 2018 we were the 
main sponsor for both the Kingsley 5k and England Athletics 5k 
Road Championships, a national event that was held in a local 
Cheshire village. A number of employees participated in these 
highly successful events, which we will sponsor again in 2019 
(see below). 

We also sponsor a number of local sport teams including a junior 
rugby team (Crewe and Nantwich RUFC Junior Colts), the Crewe 
and Nantwich RUFC Touch Rugby Teams (Blaze and Fire), which 
promote participation in rugby for boys, girls, men and women of 
ages and abilities from 10 to 50+. We also provided sponsorship 
and kit for the Marine Academy Plymouth Juniors FC, a junior 
girls football team in Plymouth.

Above: Pie & Peas 5 mile run.

Right: Fund raising events in 2018 for St Luke’s Hospice.

We continue to support an employee who won Gold, Silver 
and Bronze medals at the Open Tae Kwon Do European 
Championships in 2017. She will compete at the UK 
Championships in May 2019 and we will continue to support 
her in the coming years. We also sponsored a former Crewe & 
Nantwich RUFC star who lost the use of his legs due to a freak 
injury while playing rugby. He was called up to the GB Wheelchair 
Rugby Team, and AMS has provided financial assistance in order 
that he can purchase a specialist wheelchair to compete for GB.

In 2018 AMS was the main sponsor of the St Luke’s Hospice 
Midnight Walk, which will be held on the streets of Crewe and 
Nantwich in June. St Luke’s Cheshire Hospice has been providing 
palliative care to local people, supporting them in ways beyond 
the scope and funding of the NHS. We supported this event 
through employee participation and marshalling.

AMS employees organised a number of fundraising events 
during 2018 for St Luke’s Hospice, with the target to raise £8,000. 
Thanks to the hard work of many employees this target was 
surpassed, with £10,552 being raised through a variety of events 
(see Totaliser below). The target for 2019 is to raise £15,000, the 
equivalent of 200 nursing hours.

In 2018 AMS agreed to support three Passion for Learning 
volunteers at primary schools close to Winsford. Passion for 
Learning is a charitable organisation which provides educational 
support for under privileged children with the emphasis on 
learning through play. Volunteers work with children both 1:1 
during the school day and through a network of after-school 
Enrichment Clubs. AMS hopes that the children can develop the 
skills they need in order to become part of the workforce of the 
future. We will continue this support during 2019.

We intend to continue to provide ongoing support to these and 
other events.

Year-end total:
£10,552
(Target: £8,000)

•  Celebration Cards Sale
•  Xmas Snowment/Sweets
•  Halloween Party
•  Yorkshire 3 Peak Challenge Walk
•  Summer Raffle
•  Car Boots
•  Midnight Walk and Face painting
•  Dress down and Cake Sale
•  Easter Chicks Sale
•  Valentines Cake Sale
•  Charity Box

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

29 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsRisk Management

Creating quality outcomes  
by managing risk

Risk and uncertainty are an inherent 
part of doing business and could have 
an impact on our business, brands, 
assets, revenue, profits, liquidity and 
capital resources. To meet our strategic 
objectives, build shareholder value and 
promote our stakeholders’ interests, 
we must manage this risk.

An effective and successful risk management process balances 
risk and reward and is dependent on the judgement of the 
likelihood and impact of the risk involved. The Board has overall 
responsibility for ensuring there is an effective risk management 
framework, which underpins our business model.

The Business Units, Senior Management Team (SMT), Audit 
Committee and Board review risks throughout the year. 
These risks are documented in the Risk Register which is 
formally reviewed by the SMT, external auditor and the Board 
twice annually. The plans and actions assigned to the Executive 
Directors and SMT members are reviewed to ensure progress is 
being made with risk actions and mitigation plans.

We believe that the policies, procedures and monitoring systems 
that are in place are sufficient to effectively manage the risks 
faced by our business.

The Board has applied principle C.2 of the UK Corporate 
Governance Code by establishing a continuous process for 
identifying, evaluating and managing the significant risks the 
Group faces, as outlined on page 31, and for determining the 
nature and extent of the significant risks it is willing to take in 
achieving its strategic objectives.

Key Roles and Responsibilities

Board

 e Overall responsibility for corporate strategy, 
governance, performance, internal controls 
and Risk Management Framework

 e Identification, review and management of 

identified Group strategic risks 

 e Defining the Group’s appetite for risk 
 e Assessing the effectiveness of the risk 

management processes adopted across 
the Group

 e Challenging the content of the Risk Register

y
t
i
l
i

b
i
s
n
o
p
s
e
r
g
n
i
t
r
o
p
e
r
d
n
a
g
n
i
r
o
t
i
n
o
M

Audit 
Committee

 e Assessing the effectiveness of the risk 

 e Monitoring compliance with internal 

management processes adopted across 
the Group

control systems and co-ordinating Internal 
Audit arrangements

 e Ensuring compliance with financial and 

 e Monitoring and oversight of internal and 

reporting legislation, rules and regulations and 
ensuring the Annual Report is fair, balanced 
and understandable

external audit

Senior 
Management 
Team

 e Management of the business and delivery 

of strategy

 e Identification and monitoring of the key 
risk indicators and taking timely action 
where appropriate 

 e Ensuring implementation of the Group’s 
actions and mitigation plans required to 
manage risk

 e Challenging the appropriateness and 

adequacy of action plans to mitigate risk
 e Analysing the aggregation of risk across 

the Group

 e Provision of cross functional/Business Unit 

resource to effectively mitigate risk

Business 
Units

 e Execution of the delivery of the actions 

 e Identification and reporting of strategic risks  

associated with managing risk

to the Senior Management Team

 e Timely reporting on the implementation and 

progress of agreed action plans

 e Implementation of a risk management 
approach which promotes the ongoing 
identification, evaluation, prioritisation, 
mitigation and monitoring of operational risk

30 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

y
t
i
l
i

b
i
s
n
o
p
s
e
r
e
c
n
a

i
l

p
m
o
c
d
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a
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o
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l

I

 
 
 
 
 
 
Identifying Risks 
A robust methodology is used to identify key risks across the 
Group; in Business Units, operations and during projects. This is 
an ongoing process.

Analysing Risks 
Once identified, the process will evaluate identified risks to 
establish root causes, financial and non-financial impacts and 
likelihood of occurrence. We use a scoring system to assess the 
likelihood of a risk materialising and the potential financial impact 
on the Group. The risks are prioritised in terms of severity based 
on the scoring and a mitigation plan is prepared to reduce the 
risk. Once controls and mitigating factors are considered, the 
risk is reassessed and re-scored (mitigated score) to ascertain the 
net exposure.

Managing Risk 
The SMT and the Board review the Risk Register formally at 
least twice a year, assessing whether the risks are still the most 
significant facing the Group and whether new risks have arisen. 
Effectiveness, adequacy of controls and mitigating actions 
are assessed and if additional controls or actions are required, 
these are identified and actions assigned. The Risk Register 
documents this.

Monitoring and Reporting Risk 
The SMT is responsible for monitoring progress to mitigate key 
risks. The risk management process is continuous; key risks and 
risk mitigation plans and progress are reported to, and reviewed 
by the Board, following the SMT’s bi-annual review of the Group’s 
Risk Register.

Internal Audit 
Additionally, the Board is supported by a programme of Internal 
Audits. Internal Audit reports to the Audit Committee on 
progress of control or process improvements following Internal 
Audit recommendations

Risk Management Model

C o r p o r a te Governance

Identify

Identify risks

Assess existing controls

Analyse

Score risks

Assess mitigated 
factors

Score mitigated 
risks

Risk  
Management  
Process

Monitor  
and Report

Monitor execution 
of actions

Manage

Assign responsibility

Develop action plan

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

31 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsRisk Management continued

Principal Risks and Uncertainties

Strategic Risks

All of the Principal Risks and Uncertainties are listed in the 
following pages, which includes a link to the strategy through 
the strategy icons.

Key to strategic linkage in this report

Growth

Innovation

Operational Excellence

Culture

Risk

Potential Impact

Key Controls and Mitigating Factors

Status

1. Market share 
declines/developing 
new markets is 
slower than expected 

•  Income shortfall

•  Loss of Woundcare partners

•  Effective alignment of strategy to consider the market 

changes and promote quality and cost savings

  Increased 
risk 

•  Cost increase

•  Loss of competitive  

advantage

•  New territories for revenue growth identified and developed

•  Continued development of new products and projects to 

deliver growth to provide differentiation

•  Marketing strategy to support partners and products

2. Lack of innovation/
insufficient focus 
on protection 
of intellectual 
property (IP)

•  Loss of business 

•  Loss of market share

•  Return on R&D investment 

is poor

•  Misidentification of new, 
competitive technology

•  Commercial value of products 

not maximised

•  Potential patent infringement

•  Income shortfall

3. Industry  
consolidation/loss 
of business at key 
account level

4. Increased global  
competition

•  Income shortfall

•  Pipeline of new products/technologies identified 

and prioritised

•  R&D progress monitored against stage gate process 

to ensure projects progress to plan and action is taken 
if necessary

•  Patented technologies reviewed for inclusion in 

new developments

•  Strong links with partners, including Universities, to reduce 

the risk of missed opportunities

•  Investment in clinical programmes, Key Opinion Leaders, 
clinical training and symposia to foster new approaches

•  Consideration of licensing technology

•  IP portfolio regularly reviewed and strong IP enforcement

•  No over reliance on any one customer. Our biggest 
customer represents 16% of the Group’s revenue

•  All customers have contracts with agreed termination clauses

•  Evaluation of opportunities to broaden reach into 

new markets

•  Unique products protected by knowhow and/or IP

•  Evaluation of new claims to support existing product range

•  Full service offering including strong regulatory and quality 

assurance, product development, product differentiation and 
clinical support to mitigate a pure cost of supply proposition

•  Contracts have agreed set minimas which allow terms to be 

renegotiated or agreements terminated

•  Diversified approach reduces the impact on any one project, 

partner or product

Increased risk for the 
Woundcare market 
as a whole

 No change

   Increased 
risk 

Continuing 
challenges with our 
Woundcare partners

 No change

5. Making the wrong 
or no acquisition/
poor integration

•  Impact on Group performance, 

•  Strategy set and M&A objectives defined

revenue and market capitalisation

•  Advisors appointed

•  Reputational loss

•  Detailed market intelligence and identification of targets

 No change

6. Brexit  
Implications

•  Higher costs

•  Customs delays

•  More complicated/longer 

product approvals

•  Extensive due diligence process established

•  Integration plan in place with key milestones

•  Comprehensive supply chain review completed

•  Awarded Authorised Economic Operator status to allow 

quicker customs clearance

•  Transfer of certificates to BSI Netherlands completed

•  Longer lead times for customers

•  Inventory levels increased at all sites

•  Reduced client willingness to 
develop business in the UK

•  Appointed EU Authorised Representative

•  Liaised with partners to mitigate supply/customs issues 

  Decreased 
risk

AMS is well prepared 
for Brexit

32 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

 
Key to strategic linkage in this report

Growth

Innovation

Operational Excellence

Culture

Operational Risks

Risk

Potential Impact

Key Controls and Mitigating Factors

Status

7. Regulatory risk

•  Inability to supply product

•  Stringent regulatory regime with an experienced team

•  Product launches delayed

•  Clear 3–5 year regulatory strategy in place to manage MDR

•  Unable to keep existing claims

•  Third-party sourcing as contingency for regulatory delays

•  Loss of customer, revenue 

and reputation

•  Strong regulatory pathway ensures that the increased 
regulatory requirements are met to gain approvals 

8. Vulnerability to 
single source supply

•  Inability to supply specific products 
and exposed to price increases

•  Increased cost of supply

•  Work with partners and distributors where they have 

local expertise

•  Strictly controlled Quality Management System

•  Dual source key components wherever possible

•  Strong Vendor Risk Assessment process

•  Hold levels of inventory to prevent operational issues arising 

from delays

•  Business Interruption Insurance to cover significant 

interruption of supply

9. Cyber-Risk

•  Systems and data compromised

•  Cyber Security audits carried out including penetration testing

•  Loss of sensitive data

•  Loss of reputation

•  Implementation of audit and testing recommendations

•  UK Government backed “Cyber Essentials” certification 

achieved May 2018

•  Compulsory Cyber Security training for all employees 

•  Ongoing user education

  Increased 
risk 

Certification 
challenges 
caused by stricter 
requirements of 
the Medical Device 
Regulation (MDR)

 No change

  Decreased 
risk 

Audit  
recommendations  
implemented

10. Talent  
management

•  Loss of key staff

•  Insufficient talent pool for 

succession planning

•  Succession and Talent Management process at SMT and mid-
management levels to identify talent gaps and high potential

 No change

•  Leadership and Management Development

•  Integrated Total Reward, Performance and Culture strategy to 

drive attraction, retention and employee engagement

•  Embedded Care, Fair, Dare culture across the Group

•  Close monitoring of attrition levels and reasons for leaving

Financial Risks

Risk

Potential Impact

Key Controls and Mitigating Factors

Status

11. Forex exposure

•  Loss of income

•  Established treasury policy on forex exposure

 No change

•  Shortfall in profit

•  Robust forward forecasting of currency cash flows

•  Market expectations missed

•  Aim to hedge 80% of forecast net cash flows for the next 

18 months

This Strategic Report has been prepared solely to provide information to shareholders to assess how the Directors have performed 
their duty to promote the success of the Group.

The Strategic Report contains certain forward-looking statements. These statements are made by the Directors in good faith based 
on the information available to them up to the approval of this report and such statements should be treated with caution due to the 
inherent uncertainties, including both economic and business risk factors, underlying any such forward-looking information.

The Group Strategic Report, which encompasses pages 4 to 33, was approved by the Board of Directors and signed on its behalf by:

Eddie Johnson
Company Secretary 

18 April 2019

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

33 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsBoard of Directors

Peter V Allen

Chris Meredith

Eddie Johnson

Non-Executive Chairman

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Financial Officer

A

R N*

N

C

Biography:
Peter Allen has extensive experience in 
the healthcare industry, having held key 
senior positions in a number of companies 
and playing a significant role in their 
development. This includes 12 years at 
Celltech Group plc (1992–2004) as CFO 
and Deputy CEO, six years as Chairman 
(2007–2013) of ProStrakan Group plc 
(Interim CEO 2010–11), and three years as 
Chairman of Proximagen Neurosciences 
plc (2009–12). He is a qualified 
Chartered Accountant.

Biography:
Chris Meredith joined AMS as Group 
Commercial Director in July 2005 
following a successful 18-year career in 
international healthcare sales, marketing 
and business development. His experience 
covered business-to business contract 
manufacturing, product development 
and clinical research, as well as branded 
product sales all within the medical device, 
pharmaceutical or consumer healthcare 
markets. He was appointed Managing 
Director of Advanced Woundcare in 
February 2008 and in January 2010 
became Chief Operating. Chris has 
previously held senior positions at Smiths 
Industries, Cardinal Health, Banner 
Pharmacaps, and Aster Cephac.

Biography:
Eddie Johnson joined AMS in October 
2011 and was appointed Group Financial 
Controller in November 2012. Prior to this 
he gained a first class degree in Maths and 
Computer Science from Keele University 
in 1993 and qualified as a Chartered 
Accountant in 1996. Since moving 
into industry in 1996 Eddie has held a 
number of senior finance roles in various 
sectors including, more recently, Head of 
Commercial Finance at Norcros plc and 
Western European Financial Controller for 
Sumitomo Electrical Wiring Systems.

Term of office:
Peter Allen was appointed as Non-
Executive Chairman of the Group in 
January 2014.

Term of office:
Mr Meredith was appointed Group Chief 
Executive Officer in January 2011.

Term of office:
Eddie Johnson was appointed as Chief 
Financial Officer and Company Secretary 
in January 2019.

Independent:
Not applicable. 

Independent:
No.

Independent:
No.

External appointments:
Peter is currently the Non-Executive 
Chairman of AIM listed Clinigen plc, Abcam 
plc and Diurnal plc, together with privately 
owned Oxford Nanopore Technologies 
Limited and Istesso Limited.

External appointments:
Mr Meredith was appointed as a 
Non-Executive Director of Creavo 
Medical Technologies Ltd in May 2018. 
Creavo Medical Technologies Ltd is a 
UK-based, privately-held medical device 
Company that is developing innovative 
techniques and in no way conflicts 
with AMS.

External appointments:
Not applicable.

Key
*   Denotes Chairman

C   Company Secretary 

A   Audit Committee 

R    Remuneration 
Committee

N    Nomination  
Committee

34 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Penny Freer

Steve G Bellamy

Peter M Steinmann

Senior Independent 
Non-Executive Director

Non-Executive Director

Non-Executive Director

A

R* N

A*

R

N

A

R

N

Biography:
Penny Freer joined the Board of AMS in 
March 2010. With 25 years’ experience in 
investment banking she was formerly Head 
of Equities for Robert W Baird in London, 
and prior to this held senior positions at 
Credit Lyonnais and NatWest Markets.

Biography:
Steve Bellamy was formerly an Executive 
Director of Sherwood International plc and 
Brierley Investments’ London operations, 
he has also held a number of other 
Non-Executive Directorships and advisory 
roles. He is a New Zealand qualified 
Chartered Accountant.

Biography:
Peter Steinmann is a Swiss national with  
over 25 years of commercial experience in 
Medical Devices and Diagnostics.  
He has held senior roles within Johnson 
& Johnson, Medtronic International and 
Boehringer Mannheim.

Peter has held Directorships prior to 
joining AMS. Having worked throughout 
Europe and North America, he has 
extensive knowledge of the global medical 
devices market.

Term of office:
Penny Freer was appointed as Senior 
Independent Non-Executive Director of 
AMS in March 2010.

Term of office:
Steve Bellamy was appointed as  
Non-Executive Director of AMS in  
February 2007.

Term of office:
Peter Steinmann was appointed as Non-
Executive Director of AMS in July 2013.

Independent:
Yes.

Independent:
Yes.

Independent:
Yes.

External appointments:
Penny Freer is Chairman of AP Ventures 
LLP, a non-executive director of Empresaria 
Group plc, Crown Place VCT plc and The 
Henderson Smaller Companies Investment 
Trust plc and a founding partner of 
corporate advisory business, London 
Bridge Capital Partners. 

External appointments:
Steve Bellamy is currently Chairman of 
Becrypt Ltd (data security and protection 
technology) and Concirrus Ltd (insurance 
technology), a Non-Executive Director 
at Michelmersh Brick Holdings plc, and a 
founding partner of Accretion Capital LLP 
(technology fund management and advice 
– now dormant).

External appointments:
Peter is currently Chairman of Advanced 
Perfusion Diagnostics SA, Chairman elect 
of DistalMotion SA and a Director of 
Steinmann International GmbH.

Registered Office 
Premier Park, 33 Road One, Winsford Industrial Estate, Winsford, Cheshire, CW7 3RT

Registered Number
2867684

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

35 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsSenior Management Team

Simon Coates

Rose Guang

Alan Richardson

Cathy Tomlinson

Group Quality 
Assurance/Regulatory 
Affairs (QA/RA) Director

Biography:
Rose joined AMS in May 2013 
as Group QA/RA Director 
having completed her 
Masters Degree in Precision 
Engineering from Nanyang 
Technology University in 
Singapore. Rose has over 20 
years’ experience working for 
medical device companies 
and has a strong background 
in setting up effective quality 
systems. Rose has worked for 
Bausch & Lomb International 
Healthcare, Nypro and spent 
nine years at Medical House 
Products plc as Director of 
Quality, Regulatory Affairs and 
Operations. Prior to joining 
AMS, Rose was Head of 
Quality and Regulatory Affairs 
at Bespak, part of Consort 
Medical plc.

Rose is also a 6 Sigma Master 
Black Belt.

Chief Operations Officer

Group HR Director

Biography:
Alan joined AMS in November 
2018 as Chief Operations 
Officer. Alan graduated with 
a B Eng honours degree 
in Chemical Engineering 
from Bradford University. 
Alan joined Yorkshire 
Chemicals as a Chemical 
Engineer and has since 
had 25 years of experience 
in the Medical Device, 
Pharmaceutical, Contract 
Research and Chemical 
Industries having worked for 
both Bristol-Myers Squibb 
and Convatec. Prior to joining 
AMS, Alan spent 11 years 
at Convatec and held a 
number of roles including 
Director, New Product 
Integration; Vice President 
Quality and Operations and 
Vice President Advanced 
Woundcare Operations.

Biography:
Cathy joined AMS in May 
2017 as Group HR Director. 
Cathy graduated with a 
degree in Business Studies 
from Liverpool John Moores 
University and completed 
a Masters in Business 
Administration at Strathclyde 
University. She spent five years 
working for Amazon and was 
head of HR for their final mile 
delivery business (which was a 
start-up business for Amazon).

Prior to this Cathy held 
senior HR roles for Xerox – 
supporting the outsourcing 
of managed services 
from government and 
blue chip organisations to 
Xerox and Emirates Airline, 
based in Dubai, where she 
supported the growth of the 
airline in new geographies 
and acquisitions. 

Group IS Manager

Biography:
Simon joined AMS in 2002 as 
Group Information Systems 
Manager and, during the 
Company’s growth since 
then, he has overseen many 
key IT projects including 
implementing ERP systems 
across the Group, integrating 
acquisitions and relocating 
the business into its existing 
Winsford site.

Simon has over 25 years’ 
experience in IT infrastructure, 
systems implementation and 
software development gained 
from a number of different 
industries. Prior to joining AMS 
he was Worldwide IT manager 
at Whitford Plastics Ltd, a 
manufacturer of fluropolymer 
coatings, supporting them 
through a period of rapid 
growth, managing multiple 
sites and key IT projects 
including ERP implementation 
and adoption of the Euro for 
the European offices.

Simon was appointed to the 
Senior Management Team in 
January 2015.

36 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Pieter van Hoof

Becky Walmsley

Jeff Willis

Group 
Operations Director

Business Unit Director, 
OEM (Woundcare)

Business Unit Director, 
Branded (Surgical)

Biography:
Pieter joined AMS B.V. 
in November 2009. 
Having completed a Masters 
degree in Engineering in 
Chemistry and Biochemistry 
at the Katholieke Universiteit 
Leuven (Belgium). 
Pieter joined Janssen 
Pharmaceutica working as 
a production supervisor in 
the manufacturing unit for 
sterile injectable products 
before joining the DuPont 
Engineering Polymers 
business in September 1999. 
At DuPont Engineering 
Polymers Pieter worked 
in a number of business 
process improvement roles 
in Supply Chain, certifying as 
a 6 Sigma Master Black Belt, 
before moving into Sales 
and Marketing, gathering 
experience in account 
management and business 
development. Before joining 
Advanced Medical Solutions 
B.V. Pieter held the position 
of European Customer 
Services Manager for DuPont 
Engineering Polymers.

Pieter was appointed Director 
of our Bulk Materials Business 
Unit in November 2012 and 
became the Operations 
Manager for our Winsford and 
Etten-Leur sites in February 
2015. He was promoted to 
Group Operations Director in 
December 2016.

Biography:
Becky joined AMS in July 
2015 as Business Unit 
Director of OEM and Bulk 
Materials (now Woundcare). 
Becky graduated with a 
degree in Modern Languages 
(French and German) with 
International Studies from 
South Bank University in 
1993 and completed an 
Executive Masters of Business 
Administration at Lancaster 
University in 2000.

Becky has more than 13 years’ 
experience in the Medical 
Device sector, having held 
various senior management 
roles, most recently as 
European Sales Director for 
Scapa Healthcare.

Biography:
Jeff joined AMS in 
October 2005  
as Vice President Business 
Development, Americas. 
Jeff graduated with a degree 
in Biomedical Engineering 
from the University of Florida 
in 1996 and completed 
a Masters programme in 
Management of Technology 
at Georgia Institute of 
Technology in 2001. He spent 
ten years with Kimberly-Clark 
Health Care in various R&D, 
Product Development, and 
New Business Development 
roles. In 2004, Jeff joined 
Abbott Laboratories in 
Columbus, Ohio as Manager 
of Licensing and Business 
Development supporting 
the medical nutritional and 
consumer products division.

In October 2009, Jeff 
assumed the role of Vice 
President of Group Marketing 
for AMS, relocating to the UK. 
In December 2011, Jeff also 
took responsibility for the 
Integration of RESORBA®.

Jeff was appointed Director 
of our Branded Distributed 
Business Unit in November 
2012, and following a recent 
re-organisation is now 
Director of the Surgical 
Business Unit. He resides 
in the US.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

37 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsCorporate Governance Report 

Governance Statement
The Company’s shares are quoted on the AIM market and are subject to the AIM Admission Rules of the London Stock Exchange. 
The Board is committed to the principles of good corporate governance covering leadership, effectiveness, accountability, 
remuneration and shareholder relations. 

New guidelines came into force on the 28 September 2018. As a result AMS has stated that we aim to comply with the UK Corporate 
Governance Code (Code) and have applied the Code as far as is practicable and appropriate for a public Company of the Group’s 
size. During 2018 AMS followed the 2016 Code and will adopt the updated 2018 Code in 2019. All statements made are made against 
the 2016 Code. The area where AMS currently does not comply is the tenure requirements for Non-Executive Directors who have 
served on the Board for more than nine years from the date of first election to not be considered to be independent (Code Provision 
B.1.1.). Steve Bellamy and Penny Freer have served as Non-Executive Director for 12 years (February 2019) and 9 years (March 2019) 
respectively and are considered to be independent by the Board. Details of these judgements are shown on page 40.

Role of the Board
The role of the Board is to establish the vision and strategy for the Group, to deliver shareholder value and is responsible for the long-
term success of the Company. Individual members of the Board have equal responsibility for the overall stewardship, management 
and performance of the Group and for the approval of its long-term objectives and strategic plans.

Division of Responsibilities
There is a clear division of responsibilities between the role of the Chairman and the Chief Executive Officer of the Company. The roles 
are clearly set out in writing and reviewed by the Board.

Name

Responsibility

Role
Chairman

Chief Executive Officer

Senior Independent Director

Peter Allen
Appointed 
Chairman on 1 
January 2014 
(following his 
appointment as a
Non-Executive 
Director on 4 
December 2013)

Chris Meredith

Penny Freer
Appointed Senior 
Independent 
Director in 2010

Non-Executive Directors

Steve Bellamy
Peter Steinmann

•  Leadership and management of the Board
•  Setting the Board’s Agenda, style and tone of discussions
•  Ensuring the Board’s effectiveness in all aspects of its role
•  Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer on developing the 

Group’s strategy, and providing general advice and support

•  Facilitating active engagement by all members
•  Participating in shareholder communications
•  Promoting high standards of corporate governance

•  Managing the Group’s business
•  Developing Group strategy for consideration and approval by 

the Board

•  Leading the Senior Management Team (SMT) in delivering the Group’s 

strategic and day-to-day operational objectives

•  Leading and maintaining communications with all stakeholders

•  Acting as an intermediary for other Directors when necessary
•  Available to meet with shareholders and aid communication of 

shareholder concerns when normal channels of communication 
are inappropriate

•  Chairing meetings of Non-Executive Directors if, and when, required
•  All responsibilities of a Non-Executive Director as outlined below

•  Constructively challenging and contributing to the development of 

Group strategy

•  Monitoring the integrity of financial information, financial controls and 

systems of risk management to ensure they are robust
•  Reviewing the performance of Executive Management
•  Formulating Executive Director remuneration

The Non-Executive Directors
Each of the Non-Executive Directors are free from any relationship with the Executive Management of the Company and are free 
from any business or other relationship that could affect or appear to affect the exercise of their independent judgement. The Board 
considers that all of the Company’s Non-Executive Directors are Independent Directors, in both character and judgement, in 
accordance with the recommendations of the Code. This is explained in more detail on page 40. The Chairman, Peter Allen, was 
considered independent on his appointment.

38 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

The Operation of the Board
The Board has the responsibility for ensuring that the Group is appropriately managed and achieves the strategic objectives it sets. 
To achieve this, the Board reserves certain matters for its own determination including matters relating to Group strategy, approval 
of interim and annual financial results, dividends, major capital expenditure, budgets, monitoring business and financial performance, 
treasury policy, risk management, corporate governance and the effectiveness of its internal control systems. It has a schedule of 
matters specifically reserved for its approval. Matters are delegated to the Board Committees, Executive Directors and the Senior 
Management Team where appropriate. The Board performs its responsibilities through an annual programme of meetings and by 
continuous monitoring of the performance of the Group.

Matters considered by the Board in 2018 included:

•  Directors’ responsibilities
•  Finance and operations review
•  Annual budget
•  Strategic plans
•  Acquisition strategy
•  Potential merger and acquisition targets

•  Risk review
•  Health and Safety
•  Impact of Brexit
•  Board evaluation
•  Gender Pay Gap Reporting
•  Market Abuse Regulations (MAR)

•  UK Corporate Governance Code
•  Markets in Financial Instruments Directive 

(MiFID II)

•  General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
•  Major capital expenditure
•  Reports from the Board Committees

The Board also delegates a number of its responsibilities to Committees and Management as described below.

Board Committees
The Board has delegated specific authority to the Audit Committee, Remuneration Committee and the Nomination Committee. 
Peter Allen, Steve Bellamy, Penny Freer and Peter Steinmann are members of the Audit, Remuneration and Nomination Committees. 
Chris Meredith is a member of the Nomination Committee.

The Terms of Reference of all three Board Committees are available on the corporate website ‘www.admedsol.com’.

Board and Committee Meetings
The Board meets on a formal basis regularly, and met formally eight times in 2018. Members are supplied with financial and 
operational information in good time for review in advance of the meetings. Most Board Committee meetings are scheduled around 
Board meetings.

The Directors attended the following meetings in the year ended 31 December 2018:

Grant date

Peter Allen

Steve Bellamy

Penny Freer

Chris Meredith

Peter Steinmann

Mary Tavener

Eddie Johnson

*By invitation. 

Board Audit Committee

Remuneration 
Committee

Nomination 
Committee

8

8

8

8

8

8

 8*

3

3

3

3*

3

3*

3*

4

4

4

2*

4

0

0

1

1

1

1

1

0

0

All Directors have access to the advice and services of the Company Secretary and Deputy Company Secretary. The Board approves 
the appointment and removal of the Company Secretary. The Non-Executive Directors are able to contact the Executive Directors, 
Company Secretary, Deputy Company Secretary or Senior Managers at any time for further information.

Effectiveness
Board Composition
The Board comprises the Non-Executive Chairman, two Executive Directors and three Non-Executive Directors. The Directors’ profiles 
appear on pages 34 and 35 and detail their experience and suitability for leading and managing the Group. Together they bring a 
valuable range of expertise and experience to the Group. No individual or Group of individuals dominates the Board’s decision making 
process. The Chairman fosters a climate of debate and challenge in the boardroom, built on his challenging but supportive relationship 
with the Chief Executive Officer which sets the tone for Board interaction and discussions.

Appointment of Non-Executive Directors
Non-Executive Directors are appointed to the Board following a formal, rigorous and transparent process, involving external 
recruitment agencies, to select individuals who have a depth and breadth of relevant experience, thus ensuring that the selected 
candidates will be capable of making an effective and relevant contribution to the Board. The process for the appointment of 
Non-Executive Directors is managed by the Nomination Committee.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

39 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsCorporate Governance Report continued 

Diversity
We recognise the importance of diversity at Board level and our Board members comprise a number of different nationalities with a 
wide range of skills and experiences from a variety of business backgrounds. The female representation on the Board at 31 December 
2018 was 33.3%. Additionally, the Senior Management Team also has a diverse experience. Its members comprise several nationalities 
and female representation was 40%. Both of these ratios will fall in 2019 as Mary Tavener has been replaced on the Board by Eddie 
Johnson, and some of her responsibilities in the Senior Management Team have been taken by the appointment of Alan Richardson 
(Chief Operations Officer) in November 2018.

Terms of Appointment and Time Commitment
All Non-Executive Directors are appointed for an initial term of three years subject to satisfactory performance. After this time they may 
serve additional three-year terms following review by the Board. All Non-Executive Directors are expected to devote such time as is 
necessary for the proper performance of their duties. Directors are expected to attend all Board meetings and Committee meetings of 
which they are members and any additional meetings as required.

Further details of their terms and conditions are summarised in the Remuneration Report on page 58 and the terms and conditions of 
appointment of the Non-Executive Directors are available at the Company’s Registered Office.

Tenure Chart
The size of the Board during 2018 was six and the tenure is shown below. The Company follows the Code as far as is practicable. 
The Board notes the tenure requirement for a Non-Executive Director who has served on the Board for more than nine years from the 
date of first election to not be considered to be independent (Code Provision B.1.1.).

Steve Bellamy and Perry Freer have served as Non-Executive Director’s for 12 years (February 2019) and 9 years (March 2019) 
respectively. Due to their extensive experience with the Company, and that the Board consider them to be independent of character 
and judgement, they are considered by the Board to be independent Directors. Steve Bellamy and Penny Freer are, however, subject 
to annual re-election which started in 2017 for Steve Bellamy and 2019 for Penny Freer (Code Provision B.7.1.).

The Board further notes that under Code Provision B.1.2 a smaller company (below FTSE 350) must have at least two independent 
Non-Executive Directors. The Board consider Steve Bellamy, Penny Freer and Peter Steinmann to be independent. The Board 
rigorously self assess their performance, with a focus on independence and commitment.

Peter Allen, Steve Bellamy and Penny Freer own shares in the Company as shown on page 61. These holdings have been highlighted 
to shareholders and are small. They are not considered to impact Non-Executive Director independence under Code Provision B.1.1.

Code Provision B.2.3. states that any term beyond six years for a Non-Executive Director should be subject to rigorous review, taking 
into account the need for progressive refreshing of the Board. The Board reviewed the appointments of Steve Bellamy and Penny 
Freer, and consider that their continued appointment does not present any issues. Peter Allen and Peter Steinmann will both have 
been Non-Executive Directors for more than six years in 2019, and the Board will review their appointments in accordance with Code 
Provision B.2.3.

Board Composition

Board Composition

Gender Diversity of Board

Gender

Board
Board Tenure

Non-Executive Chairman 

Executive Directors

Non-Executive Directors

1

2

3

Male 

Female

4

2

0–3 years

4–6 years

7–9 years

10+ years

nil

2

1

3

Induction and Professional Development
New Directors are given a formal induction process including details of how the Board and Committees operate, meetings with 
Senior Management and information on Group strategy, products and performance. Training and development needs of Directors are 
reviewed regularly. The Directors are kept appraised of developments in legal, regulatory and financial matters affecting the Group by 
the Deputy Company Secretary and the Group’s External Auditors and advisors.

Professional Advice, Indemnities and Insurance
There is provision for Directors to take independent professional advice relating to the discharge of their responsibilities should they 
feel they need it. The Company has arranged Directors’ and Officers’ liability insurance against certain liabilities and defence costs. 
However, the Directors’ insurance does not provide protection in the event of a Director being found to have acted fraudulently 
or dishonestly.

40 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Board and Committee Evaluation
The performance evaluation of the Board, its Committees and Directors is undertaken by the Chairman annually and implemented 
in collaboration with the Committee Chairmen. The 2018 Board and Committee evaluations were conducted by way of each 
Director and Committee member completing comprehensive questionnaires. The results were collated, discussed and acted upon 
by the Board and Committees. The Board reviews the outcomes of the Committee evaluations and assesses their performance. 
The Chairman confirms that the performance of the Non-Executive Directors continues to be effective.

Election and Re-Election of Directors
The Company’s Articles of Association require all Directors to retire and submit themselves for re-election at the first AGM after 
appointment and thereafter at least every three years. The Notice of AGM on Page 107 gives details of those Directors seeking re-election.

Remuneration Committee
The Remuneration Committee comprises Penny Freer (Chairman), Peter Allen, Steve Bellamy and Peter Steinmann as laid out below:

Name

Penny Freer

Steve Bellamy

Peter Allen

Peter Steinmann

Chairman (since 25 June 2010, member since 1 March 2010)

Member (since 20 February 2007)

Member (since 4 December 2013)

Member (since 1 July 2013)

The Committee has Terms of Reference that are reviewed at least annually, were updated at the end of 2018 and are available to view 
on the Company’s Website ‘www.admedsol.com’. The Deputy Company Secretary acts as Secretary to the Committee.

The Remuneration Committee met four times in 2018. The Committee, in consultation with the Chief Executive Officer, determines 
the Group’s policy on Executive remuneration, employment conditions and the individual remuneration packages of the Executive 
Directors of all Group companies and all Management earning in excess of £100,000 per annum. It also approves all new incentive 
schemes, the grants of options under the Group’s share option schemes and the grants of shares under the Group’s Long-Term 
Incentive Plan (LTIP). The report of the Committee is included on pages 49 to 59.

Nomination Committee
The Nomination Committee comprises Peter Allen (Chairman), Penny Freer, Steve Bellamy, Chris Meredith and Peter Steinmann as laid 
out below:

Name

Peter Allen

Chris Meredith

Penny Freer

Steve Bellamy

Peter Steinmann

Chairman (since 1 January 2014, member since 4 December 2013)

Member (since 1 January 2011)

Member (since 1 March 2010)

Member (since 20 February 2007)

Member (since 1 July 2013)

The Committee meets as and when it is necessary to do so. The Committee has Terms of Reference that are reviewed at least 
annually, were updated at the end of 2018 and are available to view on the Company’s Website ‘www.admedsol.com’. The Deputy 
Company Secretary acts as Secretary to the Committee. The Committee met once during the year.

The Committee’s role is to:

•  Ensure that appropriate procedures are in place for the nomination and selection of candidates for appointment to the Board 

considering the balance of skills, knowledge and experience of the Board

•  Make recommendations to the Board regarding re-election of Directors, succession planning and Board composition, having due 

regard for diversity, including gender

•  Consider succession planning for Senior Management and membership of the Audit and Remuneration Committees

Audit Committee
The Audit Committee comprises Steve Bellamy (Chairman), Peter Allen, Penny Freer, and Peter Steinmann as laid out below:

Name

Steve Bellamy

Penny Freer

Peter Allen

Peter Steinmann

Chairman (since 6 June 2007, member since 20 February 2007)

Member (since 1 March 2010)

Member (since 4 December 2013)

Member (since 1 July 2013)

Steve Bellamy, a qualified Chartered Accountant, chairs the Committee and has recent and relevant financial experience. 
The Committee has Terms of Reference that are reviewed at least annually, were updated at the end of 2018 and are available to view 
on the Company’s Website ‘www.admedsol.com’. The Deputy Company Secretary acts as Secretary to the Committee.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

41 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsCorporate Governance Report continued 

The Committee met three times during the year. The Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Group Financial Controller, 
External Audit Partner and Internal Auditor attended a number of these meetings. The Audit Committee also met with the External 
Audit partner without the Executives and Senior Managers present. The Audit Committee Report is included on pages 45 to 48.

Going Concern
In carrying out their duties in respect of going concern, the Directors have carried out a review of the Group’s financial position and 
cash flow forecasts for the next 12 months from signing of the accounts. These have been based on a comprehensive review of 
revenue, expenditure and cash flows, taking into account specific business risks and the current economic environment.

With regard to the Group’s financial position, it had cash and cash equivalents at the year-end of £76.4 million (2017: £62.5 million) and 
was debt free (2017: debt free). The Group agreed a five-year, £80 million, multi-currency, revolving credit facility in December 2018 
with an accordion option under which AMS can request up to an additional £20 million on the same terms. The facility is provided 
jointly by the Group’s existing banks HSBC and The Royal Bank of Scotland PLC. It is unsecured on the assets of the Group and is 
currently undrawn.

While the current economic environment is uncertain, the Group operates in markets whose demographics are favourable, 
underpinned by an increasing need for products to treat chronic and acute wounds. Consequently, market growth is predicted. 
The Group has a number of contracts with customers across different geographic regions and also with substantial financial resources, 
ranging from government agencies through to global healthcare companies. The Group has also considered the implications that may 
arise as a result of Brexit and developed appropriate risk management solutions to mitigate this risk.

Having taken the above into consideration, the Directors have reached the conclusion that the Group is well placed to manage its 
business risks in the current economic environment. Accordingly, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the 
Financial Statements.

Remuneration
The level of remuneration of the Directors is set out in the Remuneration Report on pages 49 to 59.

Modern Slavery Act
Prior to the introduction of the legislation the Company had implemented an Ethical Sourcing Policy and the requirements of the 
Modern Slavery Act build on that policy. During 2018 the Company has taken the following key steps to implement the requirements 
of the Modern Slavery Act 2015:

•  Group-wide communication of the Anti-Slavery/Human Trafficking Policy through compliance training 

•  Reinforcement of existing policies covering ethical business practices and legal compliance

•  Contractual commitments from supply chain partners to act in accordance with our Ethical Sourcing Policy

•  Routine audits of suppliers include an assessment of compliance

•  Continuing liaison with suppliers, contractors and business partners to establish their commitment to the eradication of slavery and 

human trafficking

The full compliance statement can be found on the Company’s website ‘www.admedsol.com/modernslaveryact’.

Gender Pay Gap Reporting – Ensuring Opportunities for All
Ensuring opportunities for All
AMS believes in being an inclusive and diverse employer, where individuals are provided opportunities to develop and reach their 
full potential.

Gender Pay and Bonus Gap

Gender pay gap

Gender bonus gap

Gender bonus gap (excluding shares)

2017

2018

Mean

Median

Mean

Median

11.2%

60.3%

8.7%

6.1%

0.0%

0.0%

11.6%

59.0%

7.5%

-0.4%

0.0%

0.0%

The above table shows our mean and median gender pay gap and bonus gap as at the snapshot date (i.e. 5 April 2018) based on 
374 eligible employees within Advanced Medical Solutions Limited. The Group is only required to provide data for Advanced Medical 
Solutions Limited.

42 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Our disclosable mean pay gap of 11.6% (2017: 11.2%) is below the reported national average of 14.3%. The increase from prior year is 
driven by the implementation of a skills grid matrix which normalises pay for employees with the same skill set and experience. We are 
pleased to report however that we have all but abolished our median pay gap which now stands at -0.4% (women paid more than 
men) compared to 6.1% (men paid more than women) last year.

Our analysis of our gender gap tells us this is largely driven by the fact that women hold fewer senior positions than men. 
Women made up 42% (2017: 41%) of our overall workforce on the snapshot date, compared to 34% (2017: 32%) of women in upper 
quartile for pay.

Our analysis suggests that when we adjust for this structural issue, our pay gap changes to -2.4% (2017: -2.4%) (women paid more than 
men), which can be explained by time in role or skill-set factors.

Our bonus gap has been driven by a number of high value share exercises in the year to 5 April 2018, 72% of which were made by 
men. The exercise of these shares relates to options granted over a number of previous years and, as such, is not representative of the 
bonus earned in the year. Individuals have discretion on the timing as to when to exercise their share incentives. Any share incentives 
that vested but were not exercised are not included in this calculation. When we adjust for this factor, and exclude the impact of share 
exercises, our bonus gap drops to 7.5% (2017: 8.7%).

Proportion of employees receiving a bonus

Males %

Males

Females %Females

No Bonus 

Bonus

19

81

No Bonus 

Bonus

20

80

This shows a 1% difference in the number of men and women who received a bonus in the reference period. We are confident that 
men and women have an equal opportunity to earn a bonus.

Pay Quartiles
The below chart illustrates the gender distribution across AMS Ltd in four equally sized quartiles.

Quartile

Upper

Upper Middle

Lower Middle

Lower

2017

2018

Male

Female

Male

Female

68%

55%

57%

57%

32%

45%

43%

43%

66%

49%

59%

57%

34%

51%

41%

43%

As a responsible employer we are committed to addressing diversity and are approaching this in a number of ways to promote and 
attract more senior candidates. This includes flexible working (including job sharing, part-time working, flexitime, career break, and 
home working), development opportunities (sponsorship of further education, coaching and mentoring, and personal development 
plans) and our recruitment processes (attraction of diverse talent pools).

We are confident that men and women are paid equally for doing equivalent jobs across the business.

Our Gender Pay Gap figures have been calculated using the methodology provided in the gender pay gap reporting legislation; 
The Equality Act 2010 (Gender Pay Gap Information) Regulations 2017. 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

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Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsCorporate Governance Report continued 

Relations with Shareholders
The Board appreciates that effective communication with the Company’s shareholders and the investment community as a whole 
is a key objective. The Strategic Report, which incorporates The Chairman’s Statement, Chief Executives Statement and Financial 
Review, together with the information in the Annual Report of the Group, provides a detailed review of the business. The views of both 
institutional and private shareholders are important, and these can be varied and wide-ranging, as is their interest in the Company’s 
strategy, reputation and performance. The Executive Directors have overall responsibility for ensuring effective communication and 
the Company maintains a regular dialogue with its shareholders, mainly in the periods following the announcement of the interim and 
final results, but also at other times during the year. The views of shareholders are sought through direct contact and via feedback from 
advisors and are communicated to the Board as a whole. The Board encourages the participation of shareholders at its Annual General 
Meeting, notice of which is sent to shareholders at least 20 working days before the meeting. The AMS website ‘www.admedsol.com’ 
is regularly updated and provides additional information on the Group including information on the Group’s products and technology.

Annual General Meeting
This year’s AGM will, as last year, include a presentation by the Chief Executive Officer on the current progress of the business and 
allow the opportunity for questions on this or any of the resolutions. The Company proposes separate resolutions for each issue and 
specifically relating to the report and accounts. The Company ensures all proxy votes are counted and indicates the level of proxies on 
each resolution along with the abstentions after it has been dealt with on a show of hands.

After the meeting, shareholders have the opportunity to talk informally to the Board and raise any further questions or issues they 
may have.

The outcome of the AGM, a copy of the AGM presentation and details of the poll results will be posted on the Company’s website after 
the meeting.

Eddie Johnson
Company Secretary 

18 April 2019

44 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Audit Committee Report

Aims and Objectives
The overall aim of the Committee is to monitor the integrity of the Group’s Financial Statements and announcements, its accounting 
processes, and the effectiveness of its internal controls and risk management system. The Committee assists the Board in fulfilling its 
responsibility to ensure that the Group’s financial systems provide accurate and up-to-date information on its financial position, and 
supports the Board in its consideration as to whether the Group’s published Financial Statements are fair, balanced and understandable.

The Audit Committee is required to:

•  Oversee and advise the Board on the current risk exposures of the Company and related future risk strategies

•  Oversee the activities of Internal Audit

•  Review internal control policies and procedures for the identification, assessment and reporting of material financial  

and non-financial risks

•  Review the Group’s procedures for detecting fraud

•  Review the Group’s procedures for the prevention of bribery and corruption

•  Review the Group’s procedures for ensuring that appropriate arrangements are in place to enable employees to raise matters of 

possible impropriety in confidence

•  Review the effectiveness of the Group’s financial reporting

•  Review the content of the Annual Report and advise the Board whether, taken as a whole, it is fair, balanced and understandable, and 

provides the information necessary for shareholders to assess the Group’s position, performance, business model and strategy

•  Review the engagement, effectiveness and independence of the External Auditor

•  Review audit and non-audit services and fees

•  Review the Committee’s Terms of Reference

Audit Committee Activities
To discharge its responsibilities, during the year, the Committee has undertaken the following activities:

Financial Statements and Reports
•  Reviewed and approved the External Audit fees for 2018

•  Reviewed the annual and half-yearly financial reports and related statements and discussed:

 e Key accounting judgements
 e Cost of capital
 e Impact of Brexit
 e Working towards releasing the Annual Report earlier following the Preliminary Statement

•  Reviewed and considered the significant issues in relation to the Financial Statements and how these have been addressed, 

including:
 e Going Concern – The 2016 UK Corporate Governance Code provision C.2.2 has set out a requirement for the Directors to 

explain in the Annual Report how they have assessed the prospects of the Company, over what period they have done so and 
why they consider that period to be appropriate. This is set out on page 44 and in Note 2 on page 76. The Committee reviews 
the analysis undertaken in relation to strategic risk management and risk assessment, risk appetite, internal control, risk and 
control reporting structure and the principal risks identified on an ongoing basis. This monitoring and review validates the draft 
statement which was documented for the first time in 2016

 e Goodwill impairment

External Audit
•  Monitored the independence and ensured the objectivity of the External Auditor

•  Approved all non-audit service work over £10,000

•  Reviewed and approved the Audit Plan for the 2018 audit

•  Reviewed the performance of the External Auditor and considered the re-appointment of Deloitte LLP as auditor for 2019 and 

recommended appointment to the Board

Internal Audit
•  Considered and agreed the strategic and annual Internal Audit plan

•  Reviewed and followed up on management responses to Internal Audit findings and recommendations

•  Reviewed the performance of RSM UK and considered their re-appointment

•  Reviewed ongoing advice from previous audits

•  Engaged RSM to conduct a ‘Healthcheck’ of AMS control environment and assurance needs

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

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Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsAudit Committee Report continued

Risk Management
•  Reviewed the key risks to the Group and the plans to mitigate these risks

•  Reviewed the scoring criteria and reporting to the Committee

•  Review of Business Payment Practices and Performance Report and procedure for reporting to the Committee

Terms of Reference
•  The Committee’s Terms of Reference are reviewed annually in line with the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators 

(ICSA) guidance to reflect the UK Governance Code 

Effectiveness of External Auditor
To assess the effectiveness of our External Auditor, a formal performance review is undertaken on an annual basis to identify the 
adequacy of their approach to: 

•  Resource quality: – it is important that the External Auditor has achieved the right balance of audit team resource. With the team 
providing both continuity and knowledge, as well as a fresh perspective through new team members to allow processes and 
accounting policies to be challenged

•  Effective communication: – key audit judgements are communicated at the earliest opportunity to promote discussion and 

challenge between the External Auditors and management, informing AMS of audit issues as they arise, so that these can be dealt 
with in a timely manner. Communication regarding good practice, changes to reporting requirements and accounting standards 
is also needed to enable the Company to be prepared prior to year-end. Timely provision of audit papers is required to enable 
adequate management review and feedback. The quality of the reports and publications provided by the External Auditor in terms of 
content, relevance and presentation is reviewed

•  Scoping and planning: – specifically relating to the year-end audit work: timely provision of the External Audit strategy and timetable 

to Audit Committee and management

•  Fees: – ensuring they are transparent, appropriate and communicated prior to the commencement of any work undertaken. 
Where variations occur, these are challenged at the earliest opportunity to enable dialogue and negotiation to be undertaken

•  Auditor independence: – the Committee continues to monitor the External Auditor’s compliance with applicable ethical guidelines 

and considers the independence and objectivity of the External Auditor as part of the Committee’s duties. The Committee 
received and reviewed written confirmation from the External Auditor on all relationships that, in their judgement, may bear on 
their independence. The External Auditor has also confirmed that they consider themselves independent within the meaning of UK 
regulatory and professional requirements

The External Auditor may be appointed to provide non-audit services where it is in the Group’s best interests to do so, provided a 
number of criteria are met. These are that the External Auditor does not:

•  Audit their own work

•  Make management decisions for the Group

•  Create a conflict of interest

•  Find themselves in the role of an advocate for the Group

All projects where forecasted expenditure exceeded £10,000 were approved by the Audit Committee. Deloitte LLP has been the 
Group’s External Auditor for ten financial years. Following the positive outcome of a performance and effectiveness evaluation 
undertaken by the management, the Audit Committee concluded that it was appropriate to recommend to the Board the re-
appointment of Deloitte LLP as the Group’s External Auditor for the next financial year.

46 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Internal Audit
Internal Audit at AMS is managed and delivered by an external firm of Auditors, RSM UK, who provide this service under the direction 
and guidance of the Audit Committee. Against an agreed mandate, this function performs independent Internal Audit across 
the Group. A two-year Internal Audit strategy and an annual Internal Audit plan are approved by the Audit Committee each year. 
Internal Audit reviews areas of potentially significant risk and substantial process improvement and provide assurance that key controls 
are effectively designed and operated consistently. Audit reports are produced to convey the extent of control assurance derived from 
the formal testing of controls. RSM UK’s findings and recommendations are reported directly to the Audit Committee.

The Audit Committee:
•  Reviews and approves the charter of the Internal Audit function and ensures the function has the necessary resources and access to 
information and the Group’s employees as necessary to enable it to fulfil its mandate and is equipped to perform in accordance with 
appropriate professional standards for Internal Auditors

•  Approves the appointment and the termination of the Internal Auditors

•  Ensures the Internal Auditor has direct access to the Board Chairman and to the Committee Chairman and is accountable to 

the Committee

•  Reviews and assesses the annual Internal Audit workplan

•  Receives a report on the results of the Internal Auditors work at least twice per year

•  Reviews and monitors management’s responsiveness to the Internal Auditor’s findings and recommendations and the corrective 

actions taken

•  Monitors and reviews the effectiveness of the Company’s controls in the context of the Company’s overall risk management system

All Internal Audit reports are discussed with the Audit Committee and the External Auditor, and the recommendations are considered 
and acted upon. RSM UK attends Audit Committee meetings twice a year and updates the Audit Committee in writing ahead of each 
Committee meeting.

In 2018 the Internal Auditor reviewed previous audit reports and undertook to conduct a ‘Healthcheck’ of AMS’ control environment 
and assurance needs in early 2019. The recommendations of Internal Audit were accepted by the Audit Committee and acted upon. 
The Group also calls on the services of external bodies to review the controls in certain areas of the Group. The quality assurance 
systems are reviewed by the Group’s notified bodies, the British Standards Institute (BSI), TÜV Rheinland LGA Products GmbH and 
Lloyds Register, on a regular basis.

The Internal Controls Framework is available for all employees to view on the Intranet. Updates are driven by an underlying process 
change or by the outcomes of Internal Audit projects. Issues are identified, the policies are updated and then approved by the Chief 
Financial Officer. The updated policies are then formally approved by the Board.

Risk Management and Internal Controls
The Board takes responsibility for the Group’s system of internal control and for reviewing its effectiveness, taking guidance from the 
Audit Committee. The Board monitors and reviews all material controls including financial, operational and compliance controls. 
Risks arising from operations can only be managed rather than eliminated. Only reasonable and not absolute assurances can be made 
against material loss or misstatement. Key features of the internal control system are:

•  The Group has an organisational structure with clear responsibilities and lines of accountability. The Group promotes the values 

of integrity and professionalism. The members of the Board are available to hear, in confidence, any individual’s concerns 
about improprieties

•  The Board has a schedule of matters reserved for its consideration. This schedule includes potential acquisitions, capital projects, 
treasury policies and management systems, risk management systems and policies, approval of budgets, re-forecasts and Health 
and Safety

•  The Board or the Audit Committee reviews the Risk Register at least twice a year

•  The Board monitors the activities of the Group through the management accounts, monthly and full year forecasts and other reports 

on current activities and plans. The Senior Management Team, at least monthly, monitors financial and operational performance 
in detail

•  The Group has set appropriate levels of authorisation which must be adhered to as the Group concludes its business

•  An Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system with in-built controls over process and authority, minimising manual intervention and 

overall strengthening controls is in place in the UK, the Netherlands and Germany

•  The Group operates a ‘whistle-blowing’ policy enabling any individual with a concern to approach any of the Non-Executive 

Directors in confidence

As part of the External Auditor’s annual review process, any weaknesses identified in the Group’s internal control system are reported to 
and discussed with the Audit Committee and corrective actions are agreed.

Maximising long-term shareholder value is a key corporate objective for the Group, recognising that creating value is the reward for 
taking and accepting risk. The Directors consider risk management to be crucial to the Group’s success and give it a high priority to 
ensure that adequate systems are in place to evaluate and limit risk exposure.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

47 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsAudit Committee Report continued

Management formally reviews the Risk Register at least twice a year. Risks are evaluated for both likelihood and financial impact and 
scored against both criteria. This is used to identify the most significant risks the business faces. These risks have been identified and 
are discussed in more detail in the Strategic Report on pages 4 to 33. Actions are agreed to mitigate the risks.

At each review, progress on actions is assessed and further actions may be identified. Risks are re-scored and the effects of mitigating 
actions taken are used to identify a residual risk score. Management also gives consideration to other risks that have been identified, 
score these risks to understand significance and assign actions to be taken to mitigate, if required. The process for identifying, 
evaluating and managing the risks faced by the Group is ongoing throughout the year.

Management report to the Audit Committee at least twice a year on the Risk Register. The Board or the Audit Committee reviews the 
Group’s Risk Register and the effectiveness of Management’s actions to mitigate the risks.

As part of the External Auditor’s annual review process, any key risks and areas of audit focus are also identified and agreed with the 
Audit Committee.

In September 2014 the FRC issued guidance on ‘Risk Management, Internal Control and Related Financial & Business Reporting’. 
The new guidance was first applied in the Group’s 2015 accounting period. The Audit Committee believes it meets the 
FRC requirements.

Eddie Johnson
Company Secretary 

18 April 2019

48 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Remuneration Report

The Board presents the Remuneration Report for the year ended 31 December 2018.

As an AIM quoted Company, Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc is not required to comply with the Directors’ Remuneration 
Report regulations requirements under Main Market UK Listing Rules or those aspects of the Companies Act applicable to 
listed companies.

The following disclosures are made voluntarily.

The Remuneration Committee (Committee) comprises the three Non-Executive Directors of the Group and the Chairman of the 
Board as laid out below:

Name

Penny Freer

Steve Bellamy

Peter Allen

Peter Steinmann

Chairman (since 25 June 2010, member since 
1 March 2010)

Member (since 20 February 2007)

Member (since 4 December 2013)

Member (since 1 July 2013)

Biographical information on the Committee members is set out on pages 34 and 35. They have no personal financial interest, other 
than as shareholders, in the matters to be decided. They have no conflict of interest arising from cross-Directorships and no day-to-day 
involvement in running the business. They do not participate in any bonus, share option or pension arrangements. The Committee 
met four times during the year. All the meetings were attended by all members. The Board has accepted the Committee’s 
recommendations in full.

The Committee, on behalf of the Board, and in consultation with the Chief Executive Officer, determines the Group’s policy on 
executive remuneration, employment conditions and the individual remuneration packages of the Executive Directors of all Group 
companies and management and staff earning in excess of £100,000 per annum. It administers the share option schemes, determines 
the design of performance-related pay schemes, sets the targets for such schemes and approves payment under such schemes. 
The Terms of Reference of the Committee are reviewed each year and are available on the Company’s website, ‘www.admedsol.com’.

A resolution will be put to shareholders at the Annual General Meeting on 5 June 2019 asking them to consider and approve this 
Report. The activities the Remuneration Committee undertook in 2018 were:

Month

January

February 

September

December

Principal Activities

•  Review of 2017 personal objectives 
•  Review of proposed 2017 Executive Director and Senior Management 

Team (SMT) bonus and Deferred Annual Bonus awards

•  Review of proposed share option and LTIP awards
•  Review of compliance with Executive Shareholding Policy  

for Executive Directors and SMT

•  Impact of Organogenesis on revenue, PBT, and bonus

•  Finalisation of 2017 personal objectives awards for Executive Directors
•  Setting of 2018 personal objectives for Executive Directors
•  Review of proposed LTIP awards relating to an offer for a Chief 

Operating Officer

•  Ratification of LTIP and share option awards for SMT
•  Ratification of bonus and Deferred Annual Bonus awards for Executive 

Directors and SMT

•  Review of compliance with Executive Shareholding Policy for 

Executive Directors and SMT

•  Ratification of 2015 LTIP vesting (Senior Management Team)
•  Renewal of the Executive Shareholding Policy
•  Agreement of the proposed Financial Package for the new Chief 

Financial Officer (2019) and Chief Operating Officer (appointment)

•  Consideration of the proposed 2019 basic salaries for the Executive 

Directors and SMT

•  Ratification of 2015 LTIP vesting (Executive Directors)
•  Ratification of Executive Director shares from Company Share 

Schemes as a Good Leaver 

•  Review of results of Committee Self Assessment questionnaire,  

Terms of Reference and Directors’ Expenses Policy

•  Discussion regarding renewal of share schemes in 2019
•  Agreement of 2019 Remuneration Committee Meeting dates
•  Review of legal and corporate governance developments

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

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Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsRemuneration Report continued

Remuneration Policy
The remuneration policy is formulated around the need to provide a remuneration structure that is competitive to attract, retain and 
motivate Senior Executives of the calibre required to develop and implement the Company’s strategy and enhance earnings over 
the long-term, whilst at the same time not paying more than is necessary for this purpose. A cohesive reward structure consistently 
applied with links to corporate performance is seen as crucial in ensuring attainment of the Group’s strategic goals. The policy aims to 
conform to best practice as far as reasonably practicable. The policy will continue to apply for 2019 and subsequent years, subject to 
ongoing review as appropriate. The Committee retains the right for discretion, although no discretion was used in 2018. The policy is 
based around the following key principles:

•  Total rewards will be set at levels that are sufficiently competitive to enable the recruitment and retention of high calibre 

Senior Executives

•  Total incentive-based rewards will be earned through the achievement of performance conditions consistent with 

shareholder interests

•  The design of long-term incentives will be prudent and will not expose shareholders to unreasonable financial risk

•  In considering the market positioning of reward elements, account will be taken of the performance of the Group and of each 

individual Executive Director

Mercer were engaged in 2014 to advise the Committee with regard to the remuneration of the Executives and SMT. 
Executive Directors are expected to accumulate and maintain a significant shareholding. The Committee took into account this 
expectation, together with the recommendations from Kepler, into account when introducing an Executive Shareholding Policy 
requiring the Executive Directors and SMT to hold a minimum of 100% and 50% respectively, of their pre-tax annual salary in Company 
shares within five years of attaining office. All SMT members met or exceeded the shareholding target in 2018, except the two 
members who have been with the Company less than five years. Each Executive Director’s remuneration package consists of basic 
salary, bonus, LTIPs, health and insurance benefits, and pension contributions. The Committee ensures that there is a balance between 
fixed and performance related remuneration elements. Mercer were engaged in December 2018 to provide guidance on consulting 
with shareholders on the proposed 2019 salary increases for Chris Meredith (Chief Executive Officer) and Eddie Johnson (upon 
appointment as Chief Financial Officer). Penny Freer (Senior Non-Executive Director and Chairman of the Remuneration Committee) 
met with the majority of the significant shareholders in early 2019 to discuss the proposed salary changes. The feedback was generally 
supportive, and any concerns raised were resolved.

Consideration of Shareholder Views
In formulating the remuneration policy, the Committee takes into account guidance issued by shareholder representative bodies, 
including the Investment Association, the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association and Institutional Shareholder Services. 
The Committee also takes into consideration any views expressed by shareholders during the year (including at the AGM) and 
encourages open dialogue with its largest shareholders. Major shareholders are consulted in advance about changes to the 
remuneration policy, and were contacted in early 2019 as outlined above.

Consideration of Employment Conditions elsewhere in the Group
The Committee considers the general basic salary increase for the broader employee population when determining the annual salary 
increases and remuneration for the Executive Directors. The cost of living increase for the 2018 financial year was 2%. However, the 
Committee determined to increase the basic salary for Chris Meredith (Chief Executive Officer) by 7.8%, which was discussed with 
shareholders by Penny Freer (Chairman of the Remuneration Committee).

Statement of Voting at General Meeting
At the 2018 AGM, the percentages of votes cast ‘for’, and ‘against’ in respect of the Directors’ Remuneration Report were as follows:

Resolution

To approve the Directors’ Remuneration Report

Number of  

shares voted

123,921,601

Votes cast
‘for’

99.18%

Votes cast 
‘against’

0.82%

50 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Overview of Directors’ Remuneration Policy 
Directors’ Policy Table

Element of
remuneration
Base Salary

Purpose and how it 
supports strategy

How the element operated and 
maximum opportunity

Framework used to 
assess performance

Where there is a change in responsibility, 
progression in the role, change in size or structure 
of the Group or increased experience of the 
Executive Director or member of the SMT, the 
Committee retains the discretion to award a higher 
increase than the UK workforce.

To provide competitive 
fixed remuneration.

To attract, retain and 
motivate Executive 
Directors and the SMT 
of the right calibre to 
deliver the Company’s 
strategy and to provide a 
core level of reward for 
the role.

In line with the policy outlined on page 52 salary 
levels of Executive Directors and the SMT are set 
after taking into account experience, responsibilities 
and performance, both on an individual and 
business perspective, and external market data 
(benchmarked against companies of a similar size 
and complexity and other companies in the same 
industry sector).

Salaries are reviewed annually (normally December, 
with any changes effective from 1 January). Details 
of the current salaries of the Executive Directors are 
set out below. This review was last carried out in 
December 2018. There is no prescribed maximum 
annual increase. The Committee will take into 
account the general increase for the broader 
employee population in the UK but on occasions 
may need to recognise, for example, an increase in 
the scale, scope or responsibility of the role. Current 
salary levels are set out on page 53.

Benefits

To attract, retain and 
motivate Executive 
Directors and the SMT 
of the right calibre to 
deliver the Company’s 
strategy by providing a 
market competitive level 
of benefit provision.

The range of benefits that may be provided by the 
Committee after taking into account local market 
practice. The Executive Directors’ benefits currently 
comprise private medical insurance. Additional 
benefits may be provided as appropriate. There is 
no defined maximum as the cost benefits can vary 
annually and the Company requires the ability to 
remain competitive.

N/A

Annual  
Performance  
Bonus

Drives and rewards 
performance against 
annual financial and 
operational goals which 
are consistent with the 
medium to long-term 
strategic needs of 
the business.

Each of the Executive Directors is entitled under 
the terms of their service agreements to receive an 
Annual Bonus to be determined by the Committee 
based on the Group’s financial performance and 
the achievement of specific personal targets set by 
the Committee.

The maximum Annual Bonus potential is 150% 
of salary for the Chief Executive Officer and 75% 
of salary for the Chief Financial Officer. Bonuses 
are paid in a mixture of cash and shares with an 
element deferred under the Deferred Annual 
Bonus scheme.

The annual performance bonus is focused on the 
delivery of strategically important performance 
targets. These include demanding financial and 
non-financial measures. The financial targets are 
currently set against Group revenue, Group profit 
before tax and Earnings Per Share. 85% of the award 
is dependent upon the financial performance of the 
Group and 15% is achievable for meeting personal 
objectives and Care, Fair, Dare.

The SMT are entitled to receive up to 50% of their 
salary in bonus, of which 77% of the award is 
dependent on financial performance targets and 
23% on personal objectives and Care Fair Dare. 
The Committee may use different measures and/
or weightings for future bonus cycles to take 
into account changes in the strategic needs of 
the business.

Deferred 
Annual Bonus 
(DAB)

Provides mechanism 
to exercise malus 
provisions.

N/A

Following advice from Mercer (formally Kepler) 
regarding corporate governance developments 
in remuneration, the Committee introduced 
a Deferred Annual Bonus (DAB) Scheme after 
receiving shareholder approval at the 2014 AGM 
whereby both Executive Directors and the SMT are 
required to defer up to 25% of their Annual Bonus 
for three years.

The DAB introduced malus provisions which 
are laid out on page 53. There is no provision 
for clawback.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

51 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsRemuneration Report continued

Overview of Director’s Remuneration Policy continued
Directors’ Policy Table

Purpose and how it 
supports strategy

How the element operated and 
maximum opportunity

Framework used to 
assess performance

Element of
remuneration
Deferred 
Share Bonus 
Plan (DSB)

To align the interests 
of the Executive 
Directors, the SMT and 
the employees with 
shareholders, incentivise 
long-term value creation 
and as a key tool for 
retention of staff.

Long-Term 
Incentive Plan 
(LTIP)

To align the interests 
of the Executive 
Directors and the SMT 
with shareholders and 
incentivise long-term 
value creation.

Pension

To provide a market 
competitive
remuneration 
package to enable 
the recruitment 
and retention of the 
Executive Directors 
and SMT.

N/A

50% of the Award is determined based on the 
Total Shareholder Return (TSR) performance of 
the Company compared with the AIM Healthcare 
Share Index over the vesting period and 50% of the 
Award is determined by the growth in the average 
Earnings Per Share (EPS) per year of the Company 
over a three-year period.

Of the 50% of the Award that is determined by 
reference to the AIM Healthcare Share Index, no 
shares will be awarded if the Company is ranked 
below the median. Awards will vest on a sliding 
scale from 25% to 100% for performance above 
median to upper quartile performance against 
the Index.

The performance measurement for EPS will 
be based on the percentage increase of the 
Company’s EPS over a three-year period 
commencing on the 1 January of the year the 
Award is made. Awards will vest on a sliding scale 
from 25% to 100% for an average increase of EPS 
from target EPS of 5% to an average increase of EPS 
of 20% over the vesting period. No awards will be 
made for an average increase of EPS below target 
EPS. In 2014 the EPS target was set at 5%.

The Committee has the flexibility to make 
appropriate adjustments to the performance 
conditions to ensure that the Award achieves 
its purpose. Any vesting is also subject to the 
Committee being satisfied that the Company’s 
performance on these measures is consistent with 
the underlying performance of the business.

N/A

The Deferred Share Bonus Plan (DSB) is available to 
all employees and allows them to choose for the 
payment of some bonus to be made in the form of 
shares. It also allows for the provision of matching 
shares if the bonus shares are held for a set period. 
The DSB encourages employees to acquire shares 
in the Company and retain those shares to receive 
additional free shares from the Company. It acts 
as a valuable retention tool aligning employees’ 
interests with those of shareholders. The DSB first 
operated in 2007. The existing scheme received 
shareholder approval at the 2015 AGM.

The Company introduced a new Long-Term 
Incentive Plan (2014 LTIP) at the 2014 AGM, 
replacing the LTIP introduced in 2006. The LTIP 
permits an annual grant of shares that vest subject 
to performance and continued employment. 
The LTIP awards are granted in accordance with 
the rules of the plan. Individuals who are entitled 
to awards levels the 2014 LTIP are not eligible to 
receive options under the Company’s Share Option 
Plan or the Executive Share Option Scheme.

Under the rules of the LTIP, the maximum annual 
award size is 200% of salary. Details of the proposed 
award level for 2018 are set out below. Awards 
under the LTIP may be granted in the form of nil-
cost options or cash (where the award cannot be 
settled in shares). Awards are currently structured 
with a consideration of £1.

The 2014 LTIP introduced malus provisions which 
are laid out on page 53. There is no provision 
for clawback.

All UK employees are entitled to become members 
of the Group Pension and Life Assurance Scheme 
which was set up with effect from 1 February 
1999. The Scheme entitles Executive Directors 
to contribute up to 10% of salary with the Group 
contributing a fixed 10%. All other UK employees 
contribute a minimum of 3% of their salary which 
is matched by a 6% contribution of the Group. The 
Pension Plan is a money purchase scheme. In 2011, 
the Group made arrangements allowing individuals 
to sacrifice their salary for pension contributions.
Following changes in the taxation of personal UK 
pension contributions, and limitations on the size 
of individual personal pension funds, the Group 
has agreed that an employee may substitute the 
pension contributions they would have received 
from the Group for salary.

Automatic enrolment has been implemented 
for all UK employees, except for those who have 
opted out.

52 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Malus provisions – 2014 LTIP/DAB
The 2014 LTIP and DAB incorporate malus provisions. For LTIPs and DABs awarded from 2014 onwards, the Committee may in its 
absolute discretion resolve to vary an Award in the event that any of the Financial Statements or results for the Company, or for any 
Group Company, are materially restated (other than restatement due to a change in accounting policy or to rectify a minor error) or 
if, in the reasonable opinion of the Committee and following consultation with the relevant employing Group Company, a participant 
has deliberately misled the management of the Company and/or the market and/or the Company’s shareholders regarding the 
financial performance and/or technical information of any Group Company or any Subsidiary, or a participant’s actions amount to 
serious misconduct or conduct which causes significant financial loss for the Company, any Group Company and/or the participant’s 
Business Unit.

If the Committee determines that the malus provision applies then they may resolve that the number of shares comprised in an Award 
that are not vested shares and/or vested shares in the case of an Option where the Option has not yet been exercised should be 
reduced (to Nil if appropriate) and/or impose further conditions on an Award.

Directors’ Emoluments – Single Figure of Remuneration
The various elements of the remuneration for each Director in 2017 and 2018:

Salary and fees

Annual Bonus

Annual Bonus

LTIPs vested

Deferred  

Gains on DSBs
vested1

Benefits

Pensions

Total 
remuneration

Chris Meredith

Mary Tavener

Peter Allen

Steve Bellamy

Penny Freer

Peter Steinmann

2018
£’000

278

215

73

43

43

37

2017
£’000

270

209

71

42

42

36

2018
£’000

127

81

2017
£’000

201

130

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

2018
£’000

2017
£’000

2018
£’000

42

27

–

–

–

–

67 407

43

377

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

2017
£’000

466

329

–

–

–

–

2018
£’000

13

4

–

–

–

–

Total

689

670

208

331

69

110 784

795

17

12

1 Gains on DSBs vested is based on the share price at vesting date. Details of the DSB can be found on page 52.

2017
£’000

2018
£’000

2017
£’000

2018
£’000

2017
£’000

2018
£’000

2017
£’000

8

4

–

–

–

–

1

1

–

–

–

–

2

1

1

–

–

–

–

2

28

22

–

–

–

–

27

21

–

–

–

–

896 1,040

727

737

73

43

43

37

71

42

42

36

50

48 1,819 1,968

The table above summarises the payments made and additional amounts earned by the Executive Directors and Non-Executive 
Directors for the 2017 and 2018 financial years. The Chairmen of the Audit Committee and Remuneration Committee (Steve Bellamy 
and Penny Freer) received a supplementary fee of £3,000 for chairing a Committee. The Deferred Annual Bonus recorded in the table 
above is in respect of the 2017 and 2018 financial years, to be paid or deferred into shares, which will not be received until 2021 and 
2022 respectively. The Executive Directors were granted further LTIPs as detailed on page 55. All Directors have confirmed that, save 
as disclosed in the single figures of remuneration tables above, they have not received any other items in the nature of remuneration.

Salaries and Fees
Executive Directors
The Remuneration Committee proposed a salary increase of 7.8% for Chris Meredith (Chief Executive Officer) in 2019 and a salary 
of £175,000 for Eddie Johnson upon his appointment as Chief Financial Officer. The Group’s UK employees also received a 2% 
salary increase for the 2019 financial year. Eddie Johnson was appointed as Chief Financial Officer on 1 January 2019 following the 
retirement of Mary Tavener on 31 December 2018, but he did not take on direct responsibility for the management of operations, 
which was taken on by the new Chief Operations Officer. The salaries were agreed as above following discussions with the majority of 
the significant shareholders in early 2019.

Director

Chris Meredith

Mary Tavener (retired 31 December 2018)

Eddie Johnson (appointed 1 January 2019)

2019

2018

% increase

£300,000 £278,409

7.8%

–

£215,373

£175,000

N/A

–

–

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

53 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsRemuneration Report continued

Annual Performance Bonus
The Annual Bonus contains two elements — the cash element and the deferred share element. The bonus is determined on both 
financial targets and personal objectives. Up to 25% of the bonus is deferred into shares in line with the malus provisions. The Annual 
Bonus payments presented in the table above were based on performance against growth in Group revenue, adjusted Profit before 
Tax, and EPS, and performance against personal performance objectives measured over the relevant financial year. The maximum 
bonus potential for the year ending 31 December 2019 will be 150% of salary for the Chief Executive Officer and 75% for the Chief 
Financial Officer.

The personal objectives for the Executive Directors are usually set on an individual basis. The personal objectives of each Executive 
Director for the year ended 31 December 2018 were linked to the corporate, financial, strategic and other non-financial objectives of 
the Company.

Up to 18% of salary was payable to the Chief Executive Officer and 15% of salary to the Chief Financial Officer (Mary Tavener) upon 
achievement of personal objectives. Based on the assessment against objectives set, the Committee determined that the performance 
of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer warranted payouts of 94% (2017: 60%) and 93% (2017: 60%) respectively in 
relation to the non-financial elements of their respective bonuses, which resulted in payment worth 17% (2017: 11%) of salary to the 
Chief Executive Officer and 14% (2017: 9%) of salary to the Chief Financial Officer. The Committee consider the 2019 objectives to be 
commercially sensitive as they give our competitors insight into our business plans and therefore are not detailed in this Report.

The bonus for the 2018 financial year is accrued and paid in 2019. Overall the 2018 bonus payments made in respect of the 2017 
financial year were as follows:

Director

Chris Meredith

Mary Tavener

Bonus paid 
in 2018 (2017 
Financial Year)

Deferred  

Annual Bonus

£200,965

£66,988

£129,553

£43,184

Percentage  
of salary 
(total bonus)

82.6%

82.6%

Maximum %  

of salary

120%

100%

Vesting of LTIPs for the year ended 31 December 2018
The LTIPs granted on 10 September 2015 to the Executive Directors under the 2014 Long-Term Investment Plan were based on 
performance criteria during the three-year period as detailed below. The LTIPs vested on 10 September 2018. The performance 
conditions were:

•  50% of the Award was subject to a performance condition based on the Company’s Total Shareholder Return (TSR) performance 
over the performance period (90 dealing day period to the date of grant measured against the 90 dealing day period prior to the 
three-year anniversary following the date of grant) relative to the constituent companies of the AIM Healthcare Share Index over the 
performance period

•  50% of the Award was subject to a performance condition based on the growth in the Company’s underlying diluted earnings per 

share (EPS) over the period from 1 January 2015 to 31 December 2017

The Performance Targets were as follows:

TSR Performance

Below 50% of the comparator Group 

Between 50% and 75% of comparator Group

Above 75% of comparator Group

EPS compound annual growth rate

<5% CAGR
5%–20% CAGR

Vesting %

0%

Pro-rata vesting between 25% and 100% based on the ranking 
in the comparator Group

100%

Vesting %

0%
Pro-rata vesting between 25% and 100%

Following a review of the performance conditions of the LTIPs granted in September 2015, 87.3% of the award vested in September 
2018. The Company achieved 100% vesting for the TSR element (2017: 100% – ranking 8th out of the 50 comparators) and 74.5% for 
the EPS element (2017: 53.7% – compound annual EPS growth of 14.92%).

In the Directors’ emoluments single figure remuneration table on page 53, the figure attributable to the LTIPs granted on 10 September 
2015 is calculated by multiplying the number of shares in respect of which the Award vested by the share price on the vesting date.

54 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Directors’ Interests in the Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP)
On 13 April 2018 the following LTIP awards were granted to each Executive Director:

Director

Type of Award

Basis of grant
awarded

Share price
at date of grant (£)

Number of shares
granted

Face value of grant (£)

Vesting determined by 
performance over

Chris Meredith

Nil-cost option

100% of salary

Mary Tavener

Nil-cost option

100% of salary

3.08

3.08

90,344

69,888

278,260

215,373

See below

See below

EPS – Three financial years to 31 December 2020  
TSR – Three years to 13 April 2021

Outstanding Share Awards
The maximum number of shares to be allocated to the Executive Directors under the LTIP, in each case for an aggregate consideration 
of £1, are as follows:

Director

Chris Meredith

Mary Tavener

(retired 31 December 2018)

Eddie Johnson
(appointed 1 January 2019)

As at 
31 December 
2017

Exercised in 
the year

Issued in 
the year

Lapsed in 
the year

As at 
31 December
2018

Market price at 
date of grant 
(p)

First vesting date

168,316

143,553

109,571

–

132,013

111,050

84,762

–

39,216

31,148

23,775

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

90,344

–

–

–

69,888

–

–

–

19,603

21,377

146,939

151.50

10 September 2018 (vested)

–

–

–

143,553

109,571

184.60

246.69

90,344

308.00

16,766

115,247

–

–

–

111,050

84,762

69,888

151.50

184.60

246.69

308.00

18 April 2019 

6 April 2020

13 April 2021

6 September 2015 (vested)

18 April 2019 

6 April 2020

13 April 2021

4,981

–

–

–

34,235

31,148

23,775

19,603

132.00

10 September 2018 (vested)

184.60

246.69

308.00

18 April 2019 

6 April 2020

13 April 2021

The entitlement to shares under the LTIP is subject to achieving the performance conditions referred to on page 52. The figures shown 
are maximum entitlements and the actual number of shares (if any) will depend on these performance conditions being achieved. 
During the year ended 31 December 2018 Chris Meredith exercised Nil LTIPs (2017: 607,883), Mary Tavener exercised Nil LTIPs 
(2017: 313,759) and Eddie Johnson Nil LTIPs. Awards made have no performance re-testing facility.

Retirement of Executive Director
Mary Tavener retired as Chief Financial Officer on 31 December 2018 and was a Good Leaver. She will receive her 2018 bonus in April 
2019 and a proportion of this will be deferred into the DAB Scheme. Her outstanding LTIPs (380,947) and DAB shares (50,418) will vest 
in the usual way over the next three years, and are subject to the relevant performance targets. Any shares held in trust relating to the 
DSB scheme will be removed from the Scheme in March 2019 in line with the Scheme Rules.

Approach to Remuneration of Executive Directors on Recruitment
In the case of appointing a new Executive Director, the Committee may make use of all the existing components of remuneration. 
The salaries of new appointments will be determined by reference to the experience and skills of the individual, market data, internal 
relativities and their current salary. New appointments will be eligible to receive a personal pension, benefits and to participate in the 
Company’s share schemes.

No Director or Senior Manager shall be involved in any decisions as to their own remuneration.

Eddie Johnson was appointed as Chief Financial Officer on 1 January 2019, replacing Mary Tavener. His salary of £175,000 is lower 
than Mary Tavener (2018: £215,373) as he did not take on direct responsibility for the management of operations.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

55 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsRemuneration Report continued

Non-Executive Directors
Non-Executive Directors are appointed under arrangements that may generally be terminated by either party on six months’ notice and 
their appointment is reviewed annually. The fees of the Non-Executive Directors are determined by the Executive Directors, taking into 
account the time and responsibility of each role. Additional fees relate to the supplementary fee paid to the Chairmen of the Audit and 
Remuneration Committees.

Non-Executive Directors receive travel expenses but do not participate in any incentive arrangements. All Non-Executive Directors 
have confirmed that, save as disclosed in the single figures of remuneration tables above, they have not received any other items in the 
nature of remuneration. Further details of the Non-Executive Director fees are outlined below.

Element of remuneration

Purpose and how it supports strategy

Non-Executive Director 
fees and benefits

Reflects time commitments, 
responsibilities of each role, 
fees paid and benefits provided 
by similar sized companies

Framework used to assess performance

Non-Executive Directors do 
not participate in variable pay
arrangements and do not 
receive retirement benefits

How the element operated and maximum 
opportunity

As per the Executive Directors 
there is no prescribed maximum 
annual increase. The Board is 
guided by the general increase 
in the Non-Executive Director
market and the broader employee 
population but on occasion may 
need to recognise, for example, 
an increase in the scale, scope or 
responsibility of the role. Current 
fee levels are set out on page 53

Service Agreements
Executive Director service contracts, including arrangements for early termination, are carefully considered by the Committee and 
are designed to recruit, retain and motivate Directors of the quality required to manage the Company. The service contract of each 
Executive Director is not fixed term and is terminable by either party giving not less than 12-months’ notice in writing. The Executive 
Directors’ contracts are available to view throughout the year at the Company’s registered office and at the Annual General Meeting. 
The Remuneration Committee reviews the contractual terms for new Executive Directors to ensure they reflect best practice. 
Details of the service contracts for the Executive Directors and letters of appointment of the Non-Executive Directors are as follows:

Executive Director

Chris Meredith

Eddie Johnson (appointed 1 January 2019)

Mary Tavener (resigned 31 December 2018)

Non-Executive Directors

Peter Allen

Steve Bellamy

Penny Freer

Peter Steinmann

Date of Contract

3 May 2005

Unexpired Term (months) 
or Rolling Contract

Rolling Contract

1 January 2019

Rolling Contract

28 June 1999

Rolling Contract

4 December 2013 Rolling Contract

1 February 2007

Rolling Contract

1 March 2010

Rolling Contract

1 July 2013

Rolling Contract

Notice Period (months)

12

12

12

6

6

6

6

Policy on Payment for Loss of Office – Executive Directors
The Remuneration Committee considers the circumstances of individual cases of early termination and determines compensation 
on a case-by-case basis accordingly, taking into account the relevant contractual terms, the circumstances of the termination 
and any applicable duty to mitigate. There are no special provisions in the event of loss of office or for payment in lieu of notice 
(PILON). The Remuneration Committee considers the circumstances of individual cases of early termination and determines 
compensation accordingly.

If such circumstances were to arise, the Executive Director concerned would have no claim against the Company for damages or 
any other remedy in respect of the termination. The Remuneration Committee would apply general principles of mitigation to any 
payment made to a departing Executive Director and will honour previous commitments as appropriate.

The table below summarises how the awards under the Annual Bonus and 2014 LTIP are typically treated in different leaver scenarios 
and on a change of control. Whilst the Remuneration Committee retains overall discretion for determining ‘Good Leaver’ status, it 
typically defines a ‘Good Leaver’ for the Annual Bonus and 2014 LTIP as circumstances which include retirement, ill health or injury, 
disability, redundancy and the employing company ceasing to be under the control of the Group.

The 2014 DAB defines a ‘Good Leaver’ as ceasing to be a Director or employee of a Group Company where that individual is not a ‘Bad 
Leaver’. A ‘Bad Leaver’ is defined as a Director or employee leaving the business due to the Financial Statements requiring restatement. 
Final treatment is subject to the Committee’s discretion.

56 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Event
Annual Bonus/DAB
Good Leaver

Timing of vesting/award

Calculation of vesting/payment

Annual Bonus payment would be negotiated as part of 
the terms of the leaving arrangements (at the discretion of 
the Remuneration Committee)

No automatic entitlement to Annual Bonus on a pro-rata 
basis (at the discretion of the Remuneration Committee)

Bad Leaver

Not applicable

Unvested Deferred Annual Bonus share awards vest at 
the normal vesting date (or earlier at the Remuneration 
Committee’s discretion)

Change of control

LTIP
Good Leaver

Bad Leaver

Change of control

Annual Bonuses are paid and unvested Deferred Share 
Bonus share awards vest on the date of notification to the 
Executive Directors regarding the change of control

Individuals lose the right to their Annual Bonus and 
unvested Deferred Annual Bonus share awards

Annual Bonus is paid only to the extent that any 
performance conditions have been satisfied and is pro-
rated for the proportion of the financial year worked to the 
effective date of change of control

On normal vesting date (or earlier at the Remuneration 
Committee’s discretion)

Unvested awards vest to the extent that any performance 
conditions have been satisfied and a pro-rata reduction 
applies to the value of the awards to take into account the 
proportion of vesting period not served

Unvested awards lapse on cessation of employment

Unvested awards lapse on cessation of employment

Unvested awards vest on the date of notification to the 
Executive Directors regarding the change of control

Unvested awards vest and a pro-rata reduction applies for 
the proportion of the vesting period not served
Outstanding deferred shares vest in full

Upon exit or change of control Deferred Share Bonus (DSB) awards will be treated in line with the DSB plan rules.

If employment is terminated by the Company, the departing Executive Director may have a legal entitlement (under statute or 
otherwise) to additional amounts, which would need to be met. In addition, the Committee retains discretion to settle other amounts 
reasonably due to the Executive Director.

In certain circumstances, the Committee may approve new contractual arrangements with departing Executive Directors including 
(but not limited to) settlement and/or consultancy arrangements. These will be used sparingly and only entered into where the 
Remuneration Committee believes that it is in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders to do so.

There are no agreements between the Group and its Directors or employees for loss of office or employment (whether through 
resignation, purported redundancy or otherwise) that occurs because of a takeover bid.

Payments to past Directors
No payments were made to past Directors during the year ended 31 December 2018.

Payments for Loss of Office
No payments for loss of office were made during the year ended 31 December 2018.

Statement of Directors’ Shareholdings and Share Interests

Director

Chris Meredith
Mary Tavener2
Eddie Johnson3

Beneficially owned1 

at 31 December 2017

Beneficially owned1  
at 31 December 2018

Outstanding LTIP awards 
at 31 December 2018

Outstanding DAB awards  
at 31 December 2018

Outstanding share 
awards under DSB 
at 31 December 2018

Shareholding as a % of 
Issued Share Capital 
at 31 December 2018

1,485,530
1,961,119
52,185

1,491,943
1,973,247
77,555

490,407
380,947
108,761

77,756
50,418
20,333

14,442
7,152
52,749

0.70%
0.92%
0.04%

Executive Directors are required to hold shares worth 100% of pre-tax annual salary in Company shares in compliance with the 
Executive Shareholding Policy. Compliance with this policy as at 31 December 2018 is shown below:

Director

Shares held4

Vested DSBs

Chris Meredith
Mary Tavener2
Eddie Johnson3

1,471,327
1,963,148
19,044

20,616
10,099
58,511

LTIPs (50% 
of vested / 
unexercised LTIPs)

73,470
57,623
17,117

DAB Awards

Total Shares

77,756
50,418
20,333

1,643,169
2,081,288
115,005

Target 
shareholding (£)

Actual shareholding 
value (£)

% vs holding 
target

278,409
215,373
175,000

4,296,886
5,442,568
300,738

1,543%
2,527%
172%

1 Includes all shares beneficially held by the Executive Director (or their spouses and children) and vested DSBs. 

2 Retired on 31 December 2018.

3 Information shown for comparison following his appointment as Chief Financial Officer on 1 January 2019. Target shareholding uses his 2019 salary.

4 Beneficially held by the Executive Director (or their spouses and children).

The shareholding as a % shown above is based on the share price as at 31 December 2018.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

57 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial Statements 
 
 
Remuneration Report continued

CEO Total Remuneration
The total remuneration figure for the Chief Executive Officer during each of the last five financial years is shown in the table below. 
The total remuneration figure includes the salary, Annual Bonus based on that year’s performance, gains made on DSBs in that year 
and LTIP awards based on the three-year performance periods ending in the relevant year. The Annual Bonus payout and LTIP vesting 
level as a percentage of the maximum opportunity are also shown for each of these years.

Year ended 31 December

Total remuneration (£’000)

Annual Bonus (% of maximum)

LTIP vesting (% of maximum)

2014

645

59.7%

61.5%

2015

741

78.76%

55.1%

2016

784

72.5%

50%

2017

1,040

82.6%

76.9%

2018

896

50.6%

87.3%

Relative Importance of Spend on Pay
The following table shows the Company’s actual spend on pay (for all employees) relative to dividends, tax and profits for the year 
attributable to owners of the parent:

Year ended 31 December

Staff costs

Dividends1

Tax

Profits for the year attributable to owners of the parent

1 The dividend figures relate to amounts payable in respect of the relevant financial year.

2017 (£m)

2018 (£m)

change %

29.9

2.0

5.1

20.1

33.6

2.5

5.8

22.7

16.2%

21.6%

12.4%

12.5%

£1,240,000 (2017: £1,365,000) of the staff costs figure relates to pay for the Directors, of which £712,000 relates to the highest paid 
Director (2017: £789,000). Total pension contributions were £1,218,000 (2017: £1,091,000) and for the highest paid Director £28,000 
(2017: £27,000).

During 2018, distributions to shareholders included a dividend of £1,591,000 paid on 15 June 2018 (2017: £1,307,000) and £901,000 
paid on 26 October 2018 (2017: £742,000). It is proposed that a dividend of 0.90p per share be paid on 14 June 2019. Further details 
are provided in Note 14 on page 86.

Gender Pay Gap Reporting – Ensuring Opportunities for All
The full compliance statement can be found on Pages 42 and 43 of the Corporate Governance Report and on the Company’s website 
www.admedsol.com/genderpay.

Private Healthcare
Executive Directors and other senior employees are entitled to private healthcare and permanent health insurance.

Share Options
Employees, except for participants in the Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP), may be granted options over shares in the Company under 
the Company Share Option Plan and Executive Share Option Scheme, under which either approved or unapproved options may be 
granted. Options granted under these schemes are not offered at a discount.

The exercising of options under these schemes is conditional on certain performance conditions which are pre-determined by the 
Remuneration Committee. Options are exercisable normally only after the third anniversary of the date of grant (or such later time as 
may be determined at the time of grant) and cannot, in any event, be exercised later than the tenth anniversary of the date of grant. 
Awards will not vest if the Group is not profitable at the end of the performance period. Full details are included in Note 29 on pages 95 
to 100. The Executive Share Option Scheme will be put forward for renewal at the 2019 AGM.

Company Share Option Plan (CSOP)
The Company received approval for a Company Share Option Plan (CSOP) on 2 June 2010. This was adopted after HMRC approval 
on 13 August 2010. This Plan allows relevant employees to receive up to £30,000 of Company shares by reference to the market value 
of these shares on the grant date and to benefit from the growth in value of those shares. The CSOP will be put forward for renewal at 
the 2019 AGM.

2009 Executive Share Option Scheme
Up until 2010, the Company was able to offer options under an Enterprise Management Incentive (EMI) Scheme. The Company no 
longer satisfies the requirements for operating this scheme, however, options already granted will be allowed to vest in accordance 
with the scheme rules.

58 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Share Performance – 2018
The opening share price for 2018 was 317.25p and the closing price, on the last trading day of the year, was 261.25p. The range during 
the year was 368.5p (high) and 261.25p (low) (Source: daily official list of the London Stock Exchange).

Five-year Share Performance
For the five-year period ending 28 February 2019 the Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc share price has outperformed the FTSE 
All-Share Index by 169%, FTSE Techmark All-Share Index by 156%, FTSE All-Share Health Care Index by 158%, the FTSE Small Cap Index 
by 157%, and FTSE AIM All-Share Index by 173%.

)

0
0
1
o
t
d
e
s
a
b
e
r
(
e
c
i
r
p
e
r
a
h
S

400

350

300
250

200

150

100

50

0

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

AMS

FTSE All Share

FTSE Techmark All Share

FTSE All Share Health

FTSE Small Cap

FTSE AIM All Share

For the five-year period ending 28 February 2019 the Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Total Shareholder Return (TSR), defined 
as share price growth plus reinvested dividends, has outperformed the FTSE All-Share Index by 153%, FTSE Techmark All-Share Index by 
143%, FTSE All- Share Health Care Index by 141%, the FTSE Small Cap Index by 145%, and FTSE AIM All-Share Index by 172%.

)

0
0
1
o
t
d
e
s
a
b
e
r
(

n
r
u
t
e
r

l

r
e
d
o
h
e
r
a
h
s

l

a
t
o
T

400

350

300
250

200

150

100

50

0

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

AMS

FTSE All Share

FTSE Techmark All Share

FTSE All Share Health

FTSE Small Cap

FTSE AIM All Share

Eddie Johnson
Company Secretary

18 April 2019

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

59 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial Statements 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report 
For the year ended 31 December 2018

The Directors present their report, incorporating the Chairman’s Statement, the Strategic Report, the Governance reports, and the 
audited Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2018.

Strategic Report
The Group has complied with the requirements of s414CB of the Companies Act 2006 by including certain non-financial information 
within the Strategic Report. The Strategic Report can be found on pages 4 to 33. This report includes a balanced and comprehensive 
analysis of the development and performance of the business of the Group and a description of the main trends and factors likely 
to affect the future development, performance or position of the business at the end of the year, using key performance indicators 
where appropriate.

Principal Risks and Uncertainties
A description of the Group’s principal risks and uncertainties can be found on pages 32 and 33 in the Strategic Report.

Research and Development
The Group attaches a high priority to research and development aimed at developing new products and updating existing products. 
The Group has expensed to the Income Statement in the year ended 31 December 2018 £3,079,000 (2017: £2,052,000) on research 
and development. In accordance with International Accounting Standards a further £1,392,000 (2017: £860,000) has been capitalised. 
Following a review of development £nil impairments were made in 2018 (2017: £nil).

Dividends
The Group made a profit before tax for the year to 31 December 2018 of £28.4 million (2017: £25.3 million). The Directors are 
recommending payment of a final dividend of 0.90p per share (2017: 0.75p per share). The final dividend will, subject to shareholders’ 
approval, be paid on 14 June 2019 to shareholders on the register at the close of business on 24 May 2019. This will make a total 
dividend of 1.32p for the full year (2017: 1.10p).

Post-Balance Sheet Events
Subsequent to the year-end, the Group acquired Sealantis Limited. Further details can be found in Note 32 on page 100 and on Pages 
17 and 18. 

Key Performance Indicators
The Directors monitor the performance of the Group on a regular basis with particular reference to the relevant Key Performance 
Indicators (KPI’s). The Group updated its KPI’s in 2018 to ensure that they continue to be the most relevant for the Group and are linked 
to the Group strategy (see the Strategic Pillars on pages 4 and 5). Further detail and performance against the KPI’s is provided on pages 
18 and 19. The KPI’s for 2018 and 2019 are as follows:

•  Revenue growth at constant currency (%)

•  Year-over-year change of our standard cost base (%)

•  Adjusted1 diluted EPS (%)

•  % of spend on R&D and Innovation

•  Customer service (OTIF)2

•  Staff retention/turnover (%)

•  % of sales from new products launched in the previous five years

•  Employee Engagement Score (%)

Capital Structure
The Group is debt free. A five-year, £80 million, multi-currency, revolving, credit facility was agreed in December 2018 with an 
accordion option under which AMS can request up to an additional £20 million on the same terms. The facility is provided jointly by 
the Group’s banks HSBC and The Royal Bank of Scotland PLC. It is unsecured on the assets of the Group and is currently undrawn.

The Company’s Ordinary Shares are admitted to, and traded on, the Alternative Investment Market (AIM), a market operated by the 
London Stock Exchange. Further information regarding the Company’s share capital, including movements during the year, are set out 
in Note 27 to the Financial Statements.

There are no specific conditions on the following scenarios:

•  No special rights of control and no restrictions on the size or transfer of shares

•  All shares are fully paid

•  No special conditions in the Articles of Association under change of control situations

Going Concern
After making enquiries and on the basis outlined in the Corporate Governance Report on pages 38 to 44, the Directors have a 
reasonable expectation that the Group has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future and for 
this reason they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the accounts.

1  Before exceptional items and amortisation of acquired intangible assets. 

2  OTIF – ‘On time in full’.

60 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Share Capital and Issue of Ordinary Shares
At 8 April 2019, the Group’s issued share capital comprised:

Ordinary Shares of 5p each

Number

213,577,549

£000

10,679

% of Issued 
Share Capital

100

The issued share capital of the Company is set out in Note 27 to the Financial Statements on page 94.

Substantial Shareholdings
As at 8 April 2019 the Company had been notified of, in accordance with the Disclosure and Transparency Rules, or was otherwise 
aware of, the following substantial interests of 3% or more in the Ordinary Share capital of the Company.

Octopus Investments Limited

AXA SA

BlackRock Inc

Cannacord Genuity Group Inc

Investec Group

Groupama

Aviva plc

Charles Stanley Group

AEGON

8 April 2019

22,211,008

17,224,775

16,854,750

14,374,118

10,146,356

9,291,291

8,433,499

8,157,958

6,561,135

% of Issued 
Share Capital

10.40

8.06

7.89

6.73

4.75

4.35

3.95

3.82

3.07

There has been no significant changes to the substantial shareholdings between 31 December 2018 and 8 April 2019. The top 
shareholders listed above remain the same as 31 December 2018.

Directors
The names of the current Directors together with brief biographies are shown on pages 34 and 35.

The Directors who were in office during the year ended 31 December 2018, the terms of the Directors’ service contracts and details of 
the Directors’ interests in the shares of the Company, together with details of share options granted and any other awards made to the 
Directors, are disclosed in the Remuneration Report commencing on page 49.

Directors are re-appointed by ordinary resolution at the Annual General Meeting of shareholders. The Board can appoint a Director 
during the year but that Director must be elected by an ordinary resolution at the next Annual General Meeting. Directors are subject to 
re-election at intervals of no more than three years, with the exceptions of Steve Bellamy and Penny Freer who will be put forward for 
re-election annually. At the forthcoming Annual General Meeting Eddie Johnson, who was appointed as a Non-Executive Director on 
1 January 2019, will retire and formally offer himself for re-appointment. 

The Directors continue to contribute effectively and demonstrate commitment to their roles. Details of the notice period in their 
service agreements are disclosed in the Remuneration Report on page 56.

Directors and their Interests
The Directors of the Company at 31 December 2018 and their interests, all of which are beneficially held, in the share capital of the 
Company were:

Ordinary Shares of 5p each at 31 December 2018

Ordinary Shares of 5p each at December 2017

Director

Chris Meredith

Mary Tavener3

Eddie Johnson4

Steve Bellamy

Peter Allen

Penny Freer

Peter Steinmann

Shares

1,484,395

1,690,277

36,535

100,000

50,000

13,888

–

DSBs

19,164

9,851

57,566

–

–

–

–

LTIPs

Deferred Bonus2

Shares

343,468

265,700

108,761

77,756

50,418

20,333

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1,482,079

1,959,691

N/A

100,000

50,000

13,888

–

1 Deferred Bonus shares are in respect of the bonus earned relating to the 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016 financial years.

2 Deferred Bonus shares are in respect of the bonus earned relating to the 2015, 2016 and 2017 financial years.

3 Retired as a Director on 31 December 2018.

4 Appointed as a Director on 1 January 2019.

DSBs

15,118

9,265

N/A

–

–

–

–

LTIPs

Deferred Bonus1

421,440

327,825

N/A

83,384

55,728

N/A

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Further details of the Directors’ remuneration and benefits are included in the Remuneration Report on pages 49 to 51.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

61 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsDirectors’ Report continued 
For the year ended 31 December 2018

Directors and their Interests continued
The Board has agreed procedures for considering and, where appropriate, authorising Directors’ conflicts or potential conflicts of 
interest. Only Independent Directors’ i.e. those who have no interest in the matter under consideration are able to take the relevant 
decision. In taking the decision the Directors must act in a way they consider, in good faith, will be most likely to promote the 
Company’s success. Directors will be able to impose limits or conditions when giving authorisation if they believe it is appropriate. 
The Board will report annually on the Company’s procedures for ensuring that the Board’s power of authorisation in respect of 
conflicts of interest operated effectively and that procedures have been followed. None of the Directors had any interest during 
or at the end of the year in any contract relating to the business of the Company or its subsidiaries.

Directors and Officers’ Liability Insurance
Insurance cover is in force in respect of the personal liabilities which may be incurred by Directors and Officers of the Company in the 
course of their service with the Group, as permitted by the Companies Act 2006. No cover is provided in respect of any fraudulent or 
dishonest act.

Employees
The Group depends on the skills and engagement of its employees in order to achieve its objectives. Staff at all levels are encouraged 
to make the fullest possible contribution to the Group’s success. The Group is an equal opportunities employer. It is committed 
to eliminating all forms of discrimination and to giving fair and equal treatment to all employees and job applicants in terms of 
recruitment, pay conditions, promotions, training and all employment matters regardless of age, disability, race, sex, sexual orientation, 
marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy, maternity and paternity, gender reassignment, religion or belief. An Equality Policy is in 
force which aims to ensure that all employees are selected, trained, compensated, promoted and transferred solely on the strength of 
their ability, skills, qualifications and merit. The aim is to encourage a culture in which all employees have the opportunity to develop 
as fully as possible in accordance with their individual abilities and the needs of the Group. The Group also believes that all employees 
have a right to work in an environment free from harassment and bullying, and there is an emphasis upon providing a safe and healthy 
working environment.

The Group ensures that every consideration is given to applications for employment from disabled persons. Should an employee 
become disabled, every effort would be made to retrain the employee if required and offer suitable alternative employment within 
the Group.

The Group’s policy is to consult and discuss with employees, through meetings, both formal and informal, those matters likely to 
affect employees’ interests. The Employees’ Consultative Committee in the UK, which comprises representatives of employees and 
management, and the Work’s Council in Germany meet regularly to discuss business issues and areas of concern.

Management also communicates with staff through regular team briefs. Details of policies, procedures and other information of 
interest are regularly updated and are easily accessed by all employees on the Group’s intranet page. The Group undertakes Employee 
Opinion Surveys and takes into account comments and feedback received when updating and formulating policies and procedures.

The Group’s aim is to recruit and retain sufficient skilled and motivated employees to meet the needs of the business. The Group 
operates to the internationally recognised medical device standard ISO 13485. Staff work within a defined quality system, and 
have Personal Development Plans that identify their training requirements to help them progress their careers and development. 
Employees are encouraged to become involved in the financial performance of the Group through participation in the Group’s 
share option plans and are incentivised directly through the Company’s bonus scheme, performance reviews and training and 
development opportunities.

Employee Share Schemes
Employees, except for participants in the Long-Term Incentive Plan (2014 LTIP), may be eligible after a period of service to be granted 
options over shares in the Company under the Company Share Option Plan or Executive Share Option Scheme. The Group received 
HMRC approval in 2010 to adopt a Company Share Option Plan (CSOP). Under the CSOP, employees are allowed to receive up to 
£30,000 of options in a tax-efficient manner. Options granted under these schemes are not offered at a discount. Further details are 
included in the Remuneration Report on pages 49 to 59.

The Company also operates a Deferred Share Bonus Scheme (DSB) in which employees are invited to participate. The DSB 
encourages employee share ownership which helps to align the employees’ interests with those of the shareholders. The details of the 
DSB Scheme are provided in the Remuneration Report on page 52. The original DSB was set up in 2006 and having reached the end 
of its ten-year life a new DSB scheme was introduced on the same terms as the existing scheme following shareholder approval at the 
2015 Annual General Meeting.

The Company no longer satisfies the requirements for granting tax-efficient options under its EMI scheme. Options already granted 
under this scheme will be allowed to vest in accordance with the rules of the scheme.

831,000 Ordinary Shares (2017: 2,200,000) were issued during the year to employees exercising their share options and options over 
other share incentive schemes. Details are given in Note 29 to the Group Financial Statements.

62 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Health and Safety
The Group is committed to high standards in health, safety and environmental performance. It is the Group’s policy to abide by, 
and where appropriate exceed, all laws, directives and regulations pertinent to its field of operations and to act in a manner so as 
to minimise the effects of its operations on the environment. The Group provides safe places and systems of work, safe plant and 
machinery, safe handling of materials and ensures appropriate information, instruction and training is given. Employees are encouraged 
to identify ‘near misses’ to ensure preventative actions are taken to avoid any unsafe work practices and a common All Incident Rate 
(AIR) reporting metric is used across the Group. Emphasis is placed on all employees having a responsibility to maintain a safe working 
environment. Health and Safety Committees at all sites assist with advice on safe working practices and ensure any corrective action is 
taken where necessary. Health and Safety reports are regularly received from Group sites and are reviewed by the Board. Regular audits 
are undertaken to evaluate compliance with Group policy. Health and Safety is a key component of the Group’s Corporate Social 
Responsibility Policy.

Environment
AMS is focused on reducing our impact on the environment. The Group has operations across a number of countries, where local 
management drive environmental performance. Specific site level objectives are established to ensure compliance with local legislative 
requirements. The Company aims to adopt responsible environmental practices and to give consideration to minimising the impact on 
the environment. 

The facility at Winsford has been built with a high level of thermal insulation to reduce the Group’s carbon footprint. It incorporates 
a solar wall, a renewable energy source that captures the sun’s warmth and supplements the building’s heating system. Lighting is 
controlled by movement sensors to avoid wastage and the heating system is fully programmable. Air compressors were replaced 
providing both business contingency and energy reduction. Across the manufacturing sites in recent years less energy efficient plant 
such as steam humidifiers, pump systems, chillers and transformers have been replaced and upgraded.

2018 saw an increased emphasis on energy management and using energy more efficiently. We continue to monitor and optimise the 
energy resources at our manufacturing facilities across the Group. Examples of activity in this area includes the fitting of light emitting 
diodes (LEDs) in our offices, warehousing and outside perimeter at Winsford, replacement of several HVAC systems with more energy 
efficient systems with greater control, also at Winsford, and construction of a new warehouse at Plymouth that meets the latest energy 
efficiency requirements.

Evaluations of capital investment opportunities are ongoing to further reduce energy consumption. 2019 will demonstrate significant 
investment in both infrastructure and expertise. The UK manufacturing sites will comply with Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme 
(ESOS) and the new Streamlined Energy Carbon Reporting (SECR) legislation, that will continually drive us to improve energy efficiency.

Corporate Social Responsibility
AMS is committed to ensuring that the business operates in a responsible way across these key areas:

•  Employees

•  Ethical Standards

•  Health, Safety and Environment

•  Customer and Community
Directors’ Responsibilities Statement
The Directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report and the Financial Statements in accordance with applicable law 
and regulations.

Company law requires the Directors to prepare Financial Statements for each financial year. Under that law the Directors are required 
to prepare the Group Financial Statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by the 
European Union and Article 4 of the International Accounting Standard Regulation and have elected to prepare the Parent Company 
Financial Statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting 
Standards and applicable law including FRS 101 ‘Reduced Disclosure Framework’). Under Company law the Directors must not approve 
the accounts unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Company and of the profit or loss 
of the Company for that period.

In preparing the Parent Company Financial Statements the Directors are required to:

•  Select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently

•  Make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent

•  State whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained 

in the Financial Statements

•  Prepare the Financial Statements on the Going Concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Company will continue 

in business

In preparing the Group Financial Statements, IAS 1 requires that Directors:

•  Properly select and apply accounting policies

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

63 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsDirectors’ Report continued 
For the year ended 31 December 2018

Directors’ Responsibilities Statement continued
•  Present information, including accounting policies, in a manner that provides relevant, reliable, comparable and understandable information

•  Provide additional disclosures when compliance with the specific requirements in IFRS is insufficient to enable users to understand 

the impact of particular transactions, other events and conditions on the entity’s financial position and financial performance

•  Make an assessment of the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern

The Directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the Company’s 
transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Company and enable them to ensure that 
the Financial Statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Company 
and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. The Directors are responsible 
for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial information included on the Company’s website. Legislation in the 
United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of Financial Statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

Responsibility Statement
We confirm that to the best of our knowledge:

•  The Financial Statements, prepared in accordance with the relevant financial reporting framework, give a true and fair view of the assets, 

liabilities, financial position and profit or loss of the Company and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a whole

•  The Strategic Report and Directors’ Report include a fair review of the development and performance of the business and the 

position of the Company and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a whole, together with a description of the 
principal risks and uncertainties that they face

•  The Annual Report and Financial Statements, taken as a whole, are fair, balanced and understandable, and provide the information 

necessary for shareholders to assess the Group’s performance, business model and strategy

Auditor
Each of the persons who is a Director at the date of approval of this Annual Report confirms that:

•  So far as the Director is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the Company’s Auditor is unaware

•  The Director has taken all the steps that he/she ought to have taken as Director in order to make himself/herself aware of any 

relevant audit information and to establish that the Company’s Auditor is aware of that information

This confirmation is given and should be interpreted in accordance with the provisions of Section 418 of the Companies Act 2006.

Delotte LLP has expressed their willingness to continue in office as Auditor and a resolution to re-appoint them will be proposed at the 
forthcoming Annual General Meeting.

Proposed resolutions for the Annual General Meeting
Details of the business to be conducted at the Annual General Meeting to be held on 5 June 2019 are contained in the Notice of the 
Annual General Meeting on pages 107 to 113. In the opinion of the Directors, the passing of these resolutions is in the best interest of 
the shareholders. Details of the Special Business to be conducted are outlined below.

Special Business
The effect of Resolution 8, to be proposed at the meeting, would be to approve the Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc 2019 Share 
Option Plan (2019 SOP).

The effect of Resolution 9, to be proposed at the meeting, would be to allow the Company to allot shares conferred by Section 551 of 
the Companies Act 2006.

The effect of Resolution 10, to be proposed at the meeting, would be to disapply the statutory pre-emption rights conferred by Section 
570 of the Companies Act 2006.

The effect of Resolution 11, to be proposed at the meeting, would be to allow the Company to purchase its own shares conferred 
by Section 701 of the Companies Act 2006.

Annual General Meeting
The Annual General Meeting will be held at 11.00 am on 5 June 2019 at Guildhall Room, 85 Gresham Street, London, EC2V 7NQ. 
Details of the Notice of the Annual General Meeting are given on pages 107 to 113. The Annual General Meeting provides an 
opportunity for shareholders to question your Board and to meet informally with the executive management after the meeting.

On behalf of the Board

Eddie Johnson
Company Secretary

18 April 2019

64 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Independent Auditor’s Report to the Members of 
Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc 
Report on the audit of the Financial Statements

Opinion
In our opinion:

•  the Financial Statements of Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc (the ‘Parent Company’) and its subsidiaries (the ‘Group’) give a 

true and fair view of the state of the Group’s and of the Parent Company’s affairs as at 31 December 2018 and of the Group’s profit 
for the year then ended

•  the Group Financial Statements have been properly prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) 

as adopted by the European Union

•  the Parent Company Financial Statements have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted 

Accounting Practice, including Financial Reporting Standard 101 Reduced Disclosure Framework

•  the Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006

We have audited the Financial Statements which comprise

•  the Consolidated Income Statement

•  the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income

•  the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

•  the Parent Company Balance Sheet

•  the Consolidated and Parent Company Statements of Changes in Equity

•  the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

•  the related Consolidated Financial Statement Notes 1 to 32

•  the related Parent Company Financial Statement Notes 1 to 7

The financial reporting framework that has been applied in the preparation of the Group financial statements is applicable law and 
IFRSs as adopted by the European Union. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in the preparation of the Parent 
Company Financial Statements is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including FRS 101 ‘Reduced Disclosure 
Framework’ (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

Basis for opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (‘ISAs (UK)’) and applicable law. 
Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Statements 
section of our report. 

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

Key audit matters
The key audit matters that we identified in the current year were:

•  Revenue recognition

Materiality
The materiality that we used for the Group Financial Statements was £1.4 million which was determined on the basis of approximately 
5% of statutory profit before tax.

Scoping
We focused our Group audit scope on the UK, Germany and Netherlands, with the UK and Germany subject to a full audit, and 
Netherlands specified procedures. As a consequence of the audit scope determined, we achieved coverage of approximately 94% 
of revenue, 93% of profit before tax and 95% of net assets. 

Significant changes in our approach 
Last year the previous auditor’s report included one other key audit matter: identification of cash generating units and allocation of 
goodwill, which is not included in our report this year as there have been no changes to the Group’s reporting segments or cash 
generating units during the year ended 31 December 2018.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

65 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsIndependent Auditor’s Report to the Members of Advanced Medical Solutions 
Group plc continued 
Report on the audit of the Financial Statements

Conclusions relating to Going Concern
We are required by ISAs (UK) to report in respect of the following matters where:

•  the Directors’ use of the Going Concern basis of accounting in preparation of the Financial Statements is not appropriate 

•  the Directors have not disclosed in the Financial Statements any identified material uncertainties that may cast significant doubt 

about the Group’s or the Parent Company’s ability to continue to adopt the Going Concern basis of accounting for a period of at 
least 12 months from the date when the Financial Statements are authorised for issue.

We have nothing to report in respect of these matters. 

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

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

Revenue recognition
Key audit matter description

How the scope of our 
audit responded to the 
key audit matter

ISAs (UK) require that, as part of our overall response to the risk of fraud, when identifying and 
assessing the risks of material misstatement due to fraud, we evaluate which types of revenue 
or revenue transactions might give rise to potential fraud risks.

The Group sells medical devices across a number of geographical regions. We have specifically 
focused this key audit matter to cut-off and occurrence for revenue recorded within November 
and December 2018 and other one-off material revenue transactions. Pressures to meet 
stakeholder expectations could provide incentives to record revenues where risk and reward 
have not passed.

The associated disclosure is included within Note 4. For specific detail on the Group’s 
accounting policy, please see Note 3.

We performed walkthroughs of the revenue cycle at significant components to gain an 
understanding of when the revenue should be recognised, to map out the relevant controls 
end to end and the processes in place. We have assessed the design and implementation of 
these controls. We also considered any potential effect of Brexit.

We tested a sample of individual sales transactions and traced to despatch notes and 
subsequent cash receipt or other supporting documents.

We performed analytical reviews to identify any unusual or one-off material revenue transactions.

We identified and considered the impact of any credit notes or inventory returns occurring after 
year-end, including evaluating the impact of any material overdue debts from customers.

Key observations

We were satisfied that the revenue recognition policies have been applied appropriately. 
Based on the work performed we concluded that revenue has been recorded appropriately. 

66 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

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

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

Materiality

£1.4 million (2017: £1.2 million)

£1.26 million (2017: £1.08 million) 

Group Financial Statements

Parent Company Financial Statements

Basis for determining 
materiality

Approximately 5% of profit before tax

Rationale for the 
benchmark applied

Profit before tax is determined to be the 
most relevant performance measure to 
the users of the Financial Statements. 

The Parent Company materiality represents less than 1% 
of the Group’s equity which is capped at 90% of Group 
materiality.

As a non-trading Parent Company, equity is the key driver 
of the Company.

Materiality

Profit before tax
£28.4 million

Profit before tax

Group materiality

Group materiality
£1.4 million

Component
materiality
range £1.26 million 
to £0.30 million

Audit Committee 
reporting threshold
£0.07 million

We agreed with the Audit Committee that we would report to the Committee all audit differences in excess of £70,000 
(2017: £60,000), as well as differences below that threshold that, in our view, warranted reporting on qualitative grounds. 
We also report to the Audit Committee on disclosure matters that we identified when assessing the overall presentation 
of the Financial Statements.

An overview of the scope of our audit
Our Group audit was scoped by obtaining an understanding of the Group and its environment, including Group-wide controls, 
and assessing the risks of material misstatement at the Group level.

Based on this assessment, we focused our Group audit scope on the UK, Germany and Netherlands, with the UK and Germany subject 
to a full audit and Netherlands specified procedures. As a consequence of the audit scope determined, we achieved coverage of 94% 
(2017: 97%) of the Group’s revenue, 93% (2017: 96%) of the Group’s profit before tax and 95% (2017: 98%) of the Group’s net assets. 
Our audit work at each location was executed at levels of materiality applicable to each individual entity which was lower than Group 
materiality. Component materiality ranged from £0.3 millions to £1.26 millions (2017: £0.52 millions to £1.08 millions). 

The Group audit team are responsible for the audit of all components within the Group except for Germany, which are the 
responsibility of the component auditor Deloitte & Touche GmbH. During the year, senior members of the Group audit team have 
engaged in regular communications with Deloitte & Touche GmbH. We include the component audit team in our team briefing, 
discuss their risk assessment, attend the close meeting and review documentation of the findings from their work.

At the Parent entity level we also tested the consolidation process and carried out analytical procedures to confirm our conclusion that 
there were no significant risks of material misstatement of the aggregated financial information of the remaining components (Russia, 
Czech Republic, and the US components) not subject to audit.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

67 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsIndependent Auditor’s Report to the Members of Advanced Medical Solutions 
Group plc continued 
Report on the audit of the Financial Statements

Our application of materiality continued
Other information
The Directors are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information included in the Annual 
Report, other than the Financial Statements and our auditor’s report thereon.

Our opinion on the Financial Statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated 
in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

In connection with our audit of the Financial Statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider 
whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the Financial Statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or 
otherwise appears to be materially misstated.

If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether there is a 
material misstatement in the Financial Statements or a material misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we have 
performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in respect of these matters.

Responsibilities of Directors
As explained more fully in the Directors’ Responsibilities Statement, the Directors are responsible for the preparation of the Financial 
Statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the Directors determine is 
necessary to enable the preparation of Financial Statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the Financial Statements, the Directors are responsible for assessing the Group’s and the Parent Company’s ability to 
continue as a Going Concern, disclosing as applicable, matters related to Going Concern and using the Going Concern basis of 
accounting unless the Directors either intend to liquidate the Group or the Parent Company or to cease operations, or have no realistic 
alternative but to do so.

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

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Statements is located on the FRC’s website at:  
www.frc.org.uk/auditors responsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor’s report.

Report on other legal and regulatory requirements
Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006
In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit:

•  the information given in the Strategic Report and the Directors’ Report for the financial year for which the Financial Statements are 

prepared is consistent with the Financial Statements

•  the Strategic Report and the Directors’ Report have been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the Group and of the Parent Company and their environment obtained in the 
course of the audit, we have not identified any material misstatements in the Strategic Report or the Directors’ Report.

68 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Matters on which we are required to report by exception
Adequacy of explanations received and accounting records

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

•  we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit 

•  adequate accounting records have not been kept by the Parent Company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received 

from branches not visited by us

•  the Parent Company Financial Statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns

We have nothing to report in respect of these matters.

Directors’ remuneration

Under the Companies Act 2006 we are also required to report if in our opinion certain disclosures of Directors’ remuneration have not 
been made.

We have nothing to report in respect of this matter.

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

Rachel Argyle (Senior Statutory Auditor)
For and on behalf of Deloitte LLP 
Statutory Auditor 
Manchester

19 April 2019

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

69 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsConsolidated Income Statement 
For the year ended 31 December 2018

Revenue

Cost of sales

Gross profit

Distribution costs

Administration costs

Other income

Profit from operations 

Finance income

Finance costs

Profit before taxation 

Income tax

Profit for the year attributable to equity holders of the parent 

Earnings per share

Basic

Diluted

The above results relate to continuing operations.

Note

4

Year ended 31 December 2018

Year ended 
31 December 
2017

Before 
exceptional  
items 
£’000

102,598

(39,192)

63,406

(1,316)

(33,572)

104

Exceptional  
items (Note 6) 
£’000

–

–

–

–

Total 
£’000

Total 
£’000

102,598

96,908

(39,192)

(38,504)

63,406

(1,316)

58,404

(1,130)

(402)

(33,974)

(32,184)

–

104

150

4, 5

28,622

(402)

28,220

25,240

11

12

13

15

15

378

(164)

28,836

(5,784)

23,052

–

–

378

(164)

(402)

28,434

–

(5,784)

(402)

22,650

147

(110)

25,277

(5,143)

20,134

10.82p

10.67p

(0.19p)

(0.19p)

10.63p

10.48p

9.52p

9.39p

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income 
For the year ended 31 December 2018

Profit for the year

Items that will potentially be reclassified subsequently to profit and loss:

Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations

(Loss)/gain arising on cash flow hedges

Other comprehensive (expense)/income for the year

Total comprehensive income for the year attributable to equity holders of the parent

Year ended 
31 December 
2018 
£’000

Year ended 
31 December 
2017 
£’000

22,650

20,134

466

(3,064)

(2,598)

20,052

2,187

4,192

6,379

26,513

70 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position 
At 31 December 2018

Assets

Non-current assets

Acquired intellectual property rights

Software intangibles

Development costs

Goodwill

Property, plant and equipment

Deferred tax assets

Trade and other receivables

Current assets

Inventories

Trade and other receivables

Current tax assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets

Liabilities

Current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Current tax liabilities

Other taxes payable

Non-current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Deferred tax liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

Equity

Share capital

Share premium

Share-based payments reserve

Investment in own shares

Share-based payments deferred tax reserve

Other reserve

Hedging reserve

Translation reserve

Retained earnings

Equity attributable to equity holders of the parent

Note

2018 
£’000

2017 
£’000

16

16

16

19

17

18

21

20

21

22

23

23

18

27

28

28

28

28

9,673

2,548

3,204

42,145

18,124

177

415

9,675

3,078

2,135

41,801

17,019

199

286

76,286

74,193

14,800

27,172

 813 

76,391

119,176

195,462

11,073

20,950

 48 

62,454

94,525

168,718

14,643

3,863

–

10,547

2,290

15

18,506

12,852

655

3,303

3,958

310

3,120

3,430

22,464

16,282

172,998

152,436

10,674

35,192

7,333

(156)

708

1,531

(2,406)

3,289

10,632

34,778

4,676

(152)

815

1,531

658

2,823

116,833

172,998

96,675

152,436

The Financial Statements of Advanced Medical Solutions plc (registration number 2867684) on pages 70 to 100 were approved by the 
Board of Directors and authorised for issue on 18 April 2019 and were signed on its behalf by:

Chris Meredith
Chief Executive Officer

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

71 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsConsolidated Statement of Changes in Equity 
Attributable to equity holders of the Group 

At 1 January 2017

10,524

34,005

3,469

(152)

459

1,531

(3,534)

636

78,590 125,528

Share
capital 
£’000

Share
premium 
£’000

Share-based
payments 
£’000

Investment 
in own 
shares 
£’000

Share-based 
payments 
deferred tax 
£’000

Other  
reserve 
£’000

Hedging  
reserve 
£’000

Translation  
reserve 
£’000

Retained 
earnings 
£’000

Total 
£’000

Consolidated profit for the 
year to 31 December 2017

Other comprehensive  
income

Total comprehensive income

Share-based payments

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Share options exercised

108

773

–

–

–

1,279

(72)

–

–

–

–

–

Shares purchased by EBT

Shares sold by EBT

Dividends paid

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(484)

484

–

–

–

–

356

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

20,134

20,134

4,192

4,192

2,187

–

6,379

2,187

 20,134 

26,513

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1,635

809

(484)

484

(2,049)

(2,049)

At 31 December 2017

10,632

34,778

4,676

(152)

815

1,531

658

2,823

96,675 152,436

Consolidated profit for the 
year to 31 December 2018

Other comprehensive 
(expense)/income

Total comprehensive 
(expense)/income

Share-based payments

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

 1,659

Share options exercised

 42 

 414 

998

–

–

–

–

–

Shares purchased by EBT

Shares sold by EBT

Dividends paid

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(600)

 596 

–

–

–

–

(107)

–

–

–

–

–

–

– 22,650 22,650

– (3,064)

 466 

 – 

(2,598)

– (3,064)

 466  22,650 

 20,052 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1,552

1,454 

(600)

596

(2,492)

(2,492)

At 31 December 2018

10,674

35,192

7,333

(156)

708

1,531

(2,406)

3,289 116,833 172,998

72 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows 
For the year ended 31 December 2018

Cash flows from operating activities

Profit from operations

Adjustments for:

Depreciation

Amortisation – intellectual property rights

– software intangibles

– development costs 

(Increase)/decrease in inventories

Increase in trade and other receivables

Increase in trade and other payables

Share-based payments expense

Taxation

Net cash inflow from operating activities

Cash flows from investing activities

Purchase of software

Capitalised research and development

Purchases of property, plant and equipment

Disposal of property, plant and equipment

Interest received

Net cash used in investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities

Dividends paid

Issue of equity shares

Shares purchased by EBT

Shares sold by EBT

Interest paid

Net cash used in financing activities

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year

Effect of foreign exchange rate changes

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year

Year ended  
31 December 
2018
£’000

Year ended  
31 December 
2017 
£’000

28,220

25,240

2,159

2,053

81

593

325

(3,707)

(6,813)

1,692

1,659

(3,810)

20,399

(304)

(1,392)

(3,062)

78

377

134

415

380

505

(8,627)

73

1,279

(4,486)

16,966

(958)

(860)

(2,901)

264

147

(4,303)

(4,308)

(2,492)

(2,049)

430

(600)

596

(164)

(2,230)

13,866

62,454

71

809

(484)

484

(110)

(1,350)

11,308

51,125

21

76,391

62,454

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

73 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsNotes Forming Part of the Consolidated Financial Statements

1  Reporting entity
Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc (‘the Company’) is a public limited Company incorporated and domiciled in England and Wales 
(registration number 2867684). The Company’s registered address is Premier Park, 33 Road One, Winsford Industrial Estate, Cheshire, 
CW7 3RT.

The Company’s Ordinary Shares are traded on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange plc. The Consolidated Financial 
Statements of the Company for the 12 months ended 31 December 2018 comprise the Company and its subsidiaries (together 
referred to as the ‘Group’).

The Group is primarily involved in the design, development and manufacture of novel high performance polymers (both natural and 
synthetic) for use in advanced woundcare dressings, and distribution of medical adhesives, for closing and sealing tissue, and sutures 
and haemostats for sale into the global medical device and dental market.

2  Basis of preparation
The Group accounts have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs), as adopted by the EU. 
The Financial Statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis of accounting except as disclosed in the accounting policies 
set out below.

The individual Financial Statements for each Group Company are presented in the currency of the primary economic environment in 
which it operates (its ‘functional currency’). For the purpose of the Consolidated Financial Statements, the results and financial position 
of each Group Company are expressed in Pounds Sterling, which is the functional currency of the Company, and the presentation 
currency for the Consolidated Financial Statements.

In carrying out their duties in respect of going concern, the Directors have carried out a review of the Group’s financial position and 
cash flow forecasts for the next 12 months. These have been based on a comprehensive review of revenue, expenditure and cash 
flows, taking into account specific business risks and the current economic environment. 

With regards to the Group’s financial position, it had cash and cash equivalents at the year-end of £76.4 million although this reduced 
subsequent to year-end as the Group acquired Sealantis for US$25 million. In December 2018, the Group secured a new £80 million, 
multi-currency credit facility with a £20 million accordion option. The credit facility is provided jointly by HSBC and The Royal Bank of 
Scotland and is in place until December 2023. It is unsecured and has not been drawn down. This facility carries an annual interest rate 
of LIBOR or EURIBOR plus a margin that varies between 0.60% and 1.70% depending on the Group’s net debt to EBITDA ratio.

While the current economic environment is uncertain, the Group operates in markets whose demographics are favourable, 
underpinned by an increasing need for products to treat chronic and acute wounds. Consequently, market growth is predicted. 
The Group has a number of long-term contracts with customers across different geographic regions and also with substantial financial 
resources, ranging from government agencies through to global healthcare companies.

Having taken the above into consideration, the Directors have reached a conclusion that the Group is well placed to manage its 
business risks in the current economic environment, including Brexit. Accordingly, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in 
preparing the accounts.

In the current year the Group has applied a number of amendments to IFRSs issued by the IASB. Their adoption has not had a material 
impact on the disclosures or on the amounts reported in the Annual Financial Statements. The following amendments were applied:

•  IFRS 9, Financial Instruments: Classification and measurement

•  Amendments to IFRS 2, Classification and Measurement of Share-based payment Transactions

•  IFRIC 22, Foreign Currency Transactions and Advance Consideration

IFRS 15 was effective for annual periods beginning 1 January 2018 and replaced IAS 11 Construction Contracts and IAS 18 Revenue. 
The Group decided to adopt the standard early with effect for the year ended 31 December 2017. 

3  Accounting policies
Critical accounting judgments and key sources of estimation uncertainty
The preparation of financial statements, in conformity with adopted IFRS, requires management to make judgements, estimates and 
assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported value of assets and liabilities, income and expense. 
Actual results may differ from these estimates. In preparing these Financial Statements, no areas of critical accounting judgement or 
key sources of estimation uncertainty have been identified, including those in relation to a no deal Brexit.

Basis of consolidation
Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the Group. Control exists when the Group has the power to govern the financial and operating 
policies of an entity so as to retain benefits from its activities. The Financial Statements of the subsidiaries are included in the 
Consolidated Financial Statements on the basis of acquisition accounting, from the date that control commences until the date that 
control ceases.

InterCompany transactions and balances between Group entities are eliminated upon consolidation.

74 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Business combinations
The acquisition of subsidiaries is accounted for using the purchase method. The cost of the acquisition is measured at the aggregate 
of the fair values, at the date of exchange, of assets given, liabilities incurred or assumed, the equity instruments issued by the Group 
in exchange for control of the acquiree, plus any costs directly attributable to the issue of debt or equity. Acquisition related expenses 
are accounted for as expenses in the period in which the costs are incurred and the services rendered, with the exception of directly 
attributable costs incurred as a result of raising equity, which are off-set against share premium, and raising debt, which are capitalised 
and amortised over the term of the debt. The acquiree’s identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities that meet the conditions 
for recognition under IFRS 3 are recognised at their fair value at the acquisition date, except for non-current assets (or disposal Groups) 
that are classified as held for sale in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-Current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, which are 
recognised and measured at fair value less costs to sell.

Goodwill arising on acquisition is recognised as an asset and initially measured at cost, being the excess of the cost of the business 
combination over the Group’s interest in the net fair value of the identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities recognised. 
If, after reassessment, the Group’s interest in the net fair value of the acquiree’s identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities 
exceeds the cost of the business combination, the excess is recognised immediately in profit or loss.

Goodwill
Goodwill arising on consolidation represents the excess of the cost of acquisition over the Group’s interest in the fair value of the 
identifiable assets and liabilities of a subsidiary, associate or jointly controlled entity at the date of acquisition. Goodwill is initially 
recognised as an asset at cost and is subsequently measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill which is 
recognised as an asset is reviewed for impairment at least annually. Any impairment is recognised immediately in profit or loss and 
is not subsequently reversed.

Revenue recognition
The Group manufactures and sells a range of innovative and technologically advanced products for the global surgical, woundcare 
and wound closure markets. Sales are recognised when control of the products has transferred to the customer in accordance with 
the contractual shipping terms, the customer has discretion over the channel and price to sell the products in accordance with the 
sales contract, and there is no unfulfilled obligation that could affect the customer’s acceptance of the products. Transfer occurs when 
the products have been shipped to the specific location, the risks of obsolescence and loss have been transferred to the customer, 
and either the customer has accepted the products in accordance with the sales contract, the acceptance provisions have lapsed, 
or the Group has objective evidence that all criteria for acceptance have been satisfied. 

Occasionally, the products are sold with volume discounts based on aggregate sales over a 12-month period. Revenue from these 
sales is recognised based on the price specified in the contract, net of the estimated volume discounts. Accumulated experience and 
customer-provided forecasts is used to estimate and provide for the discounts, using the expected value method, and revenue is only 
recognised to the extent that it is highly probable that a significant reversal will not occur. No element of finance is deemed present as 
the sales are made with a credit term of up to 90 days, which is consistent with market practice. A receivable is recognised when the 
goods are transferred as this is the point in time that the consideration is unconditional because only the passage of time is required 
before the payment is due. 

The Group also recognises revenue from royalty income receivable under licence agreements from external customers at amounts 
excluding value added tax as the products under licence are sold and the revenue can be reliably measured. For the year ended 
31 December 2018, £2.3 million (2017: £3.3 million) revenue from royalty income was recognised.

Other income
Other income relates to tax credits received under the UK Research and Development Expenditure Credit (RDEC) scheme and 
is recognised in the Income Statement in the same period in which the expense is incurred.

Exceptional items
Exceptional items are those items that are significant for separate disclosure by virtue of their size, nature or incidence, or that the 
Directors consider should be disclosed separately to enable a full understanding of the Group’s financial performance. This includes 
non-recurring transaction costs (see Note 6). Exceptional items have been presented separately on the face of the Income Statement. 
The Directors consider that this presentation gives a fairer presentation of the results of the Group.

Finance income
Finance income relates to interest earned on cash, cash equivalents and investments. Interest income is accrued on a time basis, 
by reference to the principal outstanding and at the effective interest rate applicable.

Finance costs
Finance costs relate to finance payments associated with financial liabilities. They are recognised in the Income Statement as they 
accrue using the effective interest method.

Finance costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of qualifying assets, which are assets that necessarily 
take a substantial period of time to get ready for their intended use, are added to the cost of those assets, until such time as the assets 
are substantially ready for their intended use.

Investment income earned on the temporary investment of specific borrowings pending their expenditure on qualifying assets 
is deducted from the borrowing costs eligible for capitalisation.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

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Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsNotes Forming Part of the Consolidated Financial Statements continued

3   Accounting policies continued
Provisions
Provisions are recognised when the Group has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, it is probable that 
an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of 
the amount of the obligation.

Foreign currencies
Transactions in foreign currencies are translated at the foreign exchange rate ruling at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets 
and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the Statement of Financial Position date are translated at the foreign exchange rate 
ruling at that date. Foreign exchange differences arising on translation are recognised in the Income Statement. Non-monetary assets 
and liabilities that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rate at the date of the 
transaction. Non-monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies that are stated at fair value are translated at foreign 
exchange rates ruling at the date the fair value was determined.

The assets and liabilities of foreign operations, including goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on consolidation, are translated 
at foreign exchange rates ruling at the Statement of Financial Position date. The revenue and expenses of foreign operations are 
translated at an average rate for the period unless exchange rates fluctuate significantly. Exchange differences arising on consolidation 
are recognised in equity within the Group’s translation reserve. Such translation differences are recognised as income or expense in the 
period in which the operation is disposed of.

Hedging
The Group designates certain hedging instruments, which include derivatives, embedded derivatives and non-derivatives in respect 
of foreign currency risk, as either fair value hedges, cash flow hedges, or hedges of net investments in foreign operations. Hedges of 
foreign exchange risk on firm commitments are accounted for as cash flow hedges. At the inception of the hedge relationship, the 
entity documents the relationship between the hedging instrument and the hedged item, along with its risk management objectives 
and its strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions in order to confirm the principle of an ‘economic relationship’ exists. 
Note 24 sets out details of the fair values of the derivative instruments used for hedging purposes. Movements in the hedging reserve 
in equity are detailed in the Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity. 

In accordance with IFRS 9’s transition provisions for hedge accounting, the Group has applied the IFRS 9 hedge accounting 
requirements prospectively from the date of initial application on 1 January 2018. The Group’s qualifying hedging relationships in place 
as at 1 January 2018 also qualify for hedge accounting in accordance with IFRS 9 and were therefore regarded as continuing hedging 
relationships. No rebalancing of any of the hedging relationships was necessary on 1 January 2018. As the critical terms of the hedging 
instruments match those of their corresponding hedged items, all hedging relationships continue to be effective under IFRS 9’s 
effectiveness assessment requirements. The Group has also not designated any hedging relationships under IFRS 9 that would not 
have met the qualifying hedge accounting criteria under IAS 39.

Taxation
Taxation expense includes the amount of current income tax payable and the charge for the year in respect of deferred taxation.

The income tax payable is based on an estimation of the amount due on the taxable profit for the year. Taxable profit is different 
from profit before tax as reported in the Income Statement because it excludes items of income or expenditure which are not 
taxable or deductible in the year as a result of either the nature of the item or the fact that it is taxable or deductible in another period. 
The Group’s liability for current tax is calculated by using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the Statement of 
Financial Position date.

Deferred tax is accounted for on a basis of temporary differences, except to the extent where it arises from the initial recognition of 
goodwill or of an asset or liability in a transaction where it is probable the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable 
future. Deferred tax assets are recognised only to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which 
temporary differences can be utilised.

Deferred tax is charged or credited to the Income Statement, except when it relates to items charged or credited directly to equity, 
in which case it is dealt with within equity. It is calculated at the tax rates that are expected to apply to the period when the asset is 
realised or the liability is settled based on tax laws enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting date.

Intangible assets
Acquired intellectual property rights

Intellectual property rights that are acquired in a business combination are initially recognised at their fair value. Intellectual property 
rights purchased outright are initially recognised at cost. Intellectual property rights are capitalised and amortised over their estimated 
useful economic lives, usually not exceeding 18 years. In determining the useful economic life each asset is reviewed separately and 
consideration given to the period over which the Group expects to derive economic benefit from the asset.

76 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Company Overview

Strategic Report

Governance

Financial Statements

Development costs

Expenditure on research activities, undertaken with the prospect of gaining new scientific or technical knowledge, is recognised in the 
Income Statement as an expense in the period in which it is incurred.

Expenditure on development activities, where research findings are applied to a plan or design for the production of new or 
substantially improved products and processes, is capitalised once it can be demonstrated that the product or process is clearly 
identifiable, technically and commercially feasible, will generate future economic benefits, that the development costs of the asset can 
be measured reliably and the Group has sufficient resources to complete development. Expenditure capitalised is stated as the cost of 
materials and direct labour less accumulated amortisation.

Where development expenditure results in new or substantially improved products or processes and it is probable that recovery will 
take place, it is capitalised and amortised on a straight-line basis over the product’s useful life starting from the date on which serial 
production commences, which is between one and ten years. Patents and trademarks are measured initially at purchase cost and are 
amortised on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives, which is between three and 20 years.

Regulatory certification costs

Expenditure on regulatory certification costs, where the certificate allows a product to be sold into a market for a period of time 
greater than one year, is capitalised once it can be demonstrated that the product is clearly identifiable, technically and commercially 
feasible, will generate future economic benefits, that the certification costs of the asset can be measured reliably and the Group has 
sufficient resources to complete certification. Expenditure capitalised is stated as the cost of materials less accumulated amortisation. 
Internal costs relating to regulatory certification costs are not capitalised unless they can be identified as directly attributable to the 
certification process. Capitalised certification costs are amortised over the term of the certificate which is deemed to be the useful 
economic life.

Software intangibles

Where computer software is not integral to an item of property, plant or equipment its costs are capitalised and categorised as 
intangible assets. Amortisation is provided on a straight-line basis over its useful economic life, which is in the range of three to 
ten years.

Property, plant and equipment
Land and buildings and plant and equipment held for use in the production of goods and services or for administrative purposes are 
carried in the Statement of Financial Position at cost less any subsequent accumulated depreciation and subsequent accumulated 
impairment losses.

The Group elected to use the fair value as the deemed cost in respect of land and buildings at the date of transition to IFRS. Fair value 
was calculated by reference to their existing use at the date of transition.

Depreciation is provided to write off the cost, less estimated residual values, of all property, plant and equipment, over the expected 
useful life of the asset from the date that the asset is brought into use. It is calculated at the following rates:

•  Freehold property and improvements 

– 4% per annum on cost

•  Leasehold improvements  

– over the length of the lease

•  Plant and machinery 

– 6.7% to 33.3% per annum on cost

•  Fixtures and fittings 

•  Motor vehicles   

– 33.3% per annum on cost

– 25% per annum on cost

Property, plant and equipment in the course of construction for production are carried at cost, less any recognised impairment loss. 
Depreciation of these assets, on the same basis as other property, plant and equipment assets, commences when the assets are ready 
for their intended use.

No depreciation is provided on freehold land.

Impairment of tangible and intangible assets
The carrying amount of the Group’s assets other than inventories and deferred tax assets, are reviewed at each Statement of Financial 
Position date to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. If any such indication exists, the asset’s recoverable amount 
is estimated.

An impairment loss is recognised whenever the carrying amount of an asset or its cash generating unit exceeds its recoverable 
amount. Impairment losses are recognised in the Income Statement.

Impairment losses recognised in respect of cash generating units are allocated to reduce the carrying amount of the assets in the 
unit on a pro-rata basis. A cash generating unit is the smallest identifiable Group of assets that generates cash inflows that are largely 
independent of the cash inflows from other assets or Groups of assets.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

77 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes Forming Part of the Consolidated Financial Statements continued

3   Accounting policies continued 
Calculation of recoverable amount

The recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs to sell or value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash 
flows are discounted to their present value using a discount rate that reflects the current market assessments of the time.

Reversal of impairment

An impairment loss in respect of a receivable carried at amortised cost is reversed if the subsequent increase in recoverable amount 
can be related objectively to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognised.

In respect of other assets, an impairment loss is reversed when there is an indication that the impairment loss may no longer exist and 
there has been a change in the estimates used to determine the recoverable amount.

An impairment loss is reversed only to the extent that the asset’s carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would 
have been determined, net of depreciation or amortisation, if no impairment loss had been recognised.

Inventory
Inventory is valued at the lower of cost or net realisable value. Cost comprises direct materials and, where applicable, direct labour 
costs that have been incurred in bringing the inventories to their present location and condition and an attributable proportion of 
manufacturing overheads based on normal levels of activity.

Net realisable value is based on estimated selling price less further costs to completion and disposal.

The Group makes provision for inventory deemed to be irrecoverable or where the net realisable value is lower than cost. 
This provision is established on a stock keeping unit (SKU) basis by reference to the age of the stock, the forward order book, 
management’s experience and its assessment of the present value of estimated future cash flow.

Financial Instruments
Classification of financial instruments

Financial instruments are classified as financial assets, financial liabilities or equity instruments. 

Financial instruments issued by the Group are treated as equity only to the extent that they meet the following two conditions:

•  They include no contractual obligations upon the Group to deliver cash or other financial assets that are potentially unfavourable to 

the Group

•  Where the instrument will or may be settled in the Group’s own equity instruments, it is either a non-derivative that includes no 
obligation to deliver a variable number of the Group’s own equity instruments or is a derivative that will be settled by the Group 
exchanging a fixed amount of cash or other financial assets for a fixed number of its own equity instruments

To the extent that this definition is not met, the proceeds of issue are classified as a financial liability.

Recognition and valuation of financial assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash at bank and in hand and cash deposits and amounts under short-term guarantees, usually 
three months or less, that are held for the purpose of meeting short-term cash commitments and are subject to insignificant risk in 
change in value and which are readily convertible to a known amount of cash.

Investments

Cash held in accounts with more than 90 days’ notice that are not required to meet short-term cash commitments are shown as an 
investment. The Group invests funds which are surplus to requirements in fixed rate deposits operating within parameters for credit 
ratings and credit limits for individual institutions that are approved and monitored by the Board.

Under IFRS 9 ‘Financial instruments’, such investments are classified as loans and receivables and are recognised at fair value on initial 
recognition and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Trade and other receivables

Trade receivables are stated initially at fair value and subsequent to initial recognition they are measured at amortised cost including 
a provision for expected credit losses. The Group measures the provision at an amount equal to lifetime expected credit losses, 
estimated by reference to past experience and relevant forward-looking factors. The Group writes off a trade receivable when there is 
objective evidence that the debtor is in significant financial difficulty and there is no realistic prospect of recovery, for example, when a 
debtor enters bankruptcy or financial reorganisation.

Recognition and valuation of equity instruments

Equity instruments are stated at par value. Any premium on issue is taken to the share premium account.

Recognition and valuation of financial liabilities

Financial liabilities are classified according to the substance of the contractual arrangements entered into.

78 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Trade payables

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

Other loans

Other loans are initially recognised at fair value and are subsequently recognised at amortised cost.

Financial liabilities at Fair Value Through Profit or Loss (FVTPL)
A derivative that is not designated and effective as a hedging instrument is classified as held for trading. Financial liabilities are classified 
as FVTPL where the financial liabilities are held for trading.

Financial liabilities at FVTPL are stated at fair value, with any resultant gain or loss recognised in profit or loss. Fair value is determined 
in the manner described in Note 24.

Derivative financial instruments

The Group enters into foreign exchange forward contracts to manage its exposure to foreign exchange rate risk. Further details of 
derivative financial instruments are disclosed in Note 24 to the Financial Statements. 

Derivatives are initially recognised at fair value at the date a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently remeasured to their 
fair value at each Statement of Financial Position date. The resulting gain or loss is recognised in profit or loss (administrative costs) 
immediately unless the derivative is designated and effective as a hedging instrument, in which event the timing of the recognition in 
profit or loss depends on the nature of the hedge relationship. The Group currently designates certain derivatives as hedges of highly 
probable forecast transactions or hedges of foreign currency risk of firm commitments (cash flow hedges). A derivative with a positive 
fair value is recognised as a financial asset whereas a derivative with a negative fair value is recognised as a financial liability.

Derivatives with remaining maturity of less than 12 months are presented as current assets or current liabilities.

Leased assets
Leases are classified as finance leases when the terms of the lease transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to the 
Group. All other leases are classified as operating leases. 

Assets held as finance leases are recognised as assets of the Group at their fair value or, if lower, at the present value of the minimum 
lease payments during the lease term at the inception of the lease. Lease payments are apportioned between the reduction of the 
lease liability and finance charges in the Income Statement so as to achieve a constant rate of interest on the remaining balance of the 
liability. Assets held under finance leases are depreciated over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the assets and the lease term.

Assets leased under operating leases are not recorded on the Statement of Financial Position. Rental payments are charged directly 
to the Income Statement. Lease incentives, primarily up-front cash payments or rent-free periods, are capitalised and spread over the 
period of the lease term on a straight-line basis unless another systematic basis is more representative of the time pattern of the users’ 
benefit. Payments made to acquire operating leases are treated as prepaid lease expenses and amortised over the life of the lease.

Pensions
The Group operates a money purchase pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the Group in 
an independently administered fund. The amount charged against the Income Statement represents the contributions payable to the 
scheme in respect of the accounting period.

Share-based payments
The Group has applied the requirements of IFRS 2 ‘Share-based payments’. IFRS has been applied to all options granted after 
7 November 2002 that were unvested as of 1 January 2006.

The Group issues equity-settled share-based payments to certain employees. Equity-settled share-based payments are measured at 
fair value at the date of grant. The fair value as determined at the grant date of equity-settled share-based payments is expensed on 
a straight-line basis over the vesting period, based on the Group’s estimate of options that will eventually vest. At each Statement of 
Financial Position date the Group revises its estimate of the number expected to vest as a result of the effect of non-market based 
vesting conditions. The impact, if any, is recognised in profit or loss with a corresponding adjustment to reserves.

Fair value is measured by use of a Black-Scholes Merton or Monte Carlo model. The expected life used in the model has been adjusted 
based on management’s best estimate, for the effect of non-transferability, exercise restrictions and behavioural considerations. 

Capital management
For the year ended 31 December 2018, the Group had net funds with no borrowings. Capital is managed by maximising retained 
profits. Working capital is managed in order to generate maximum conversion of these profits into cash and cash equivalents thereby 
maintaining capital.

Capital includes share capital, share premium, investment in own shares, share-based payments reserve, share-based payments 
deferred tax reserve, other reserve, translation reserve and retained earnings reserve. There are no externally imposed capital 
requirements on the Group.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

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Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsNotes Forming Part of the Consolidated Financial Statements continued

3   Accounting policies continued
Employee Benefit Trusts 
The Group operates an Employee Benefit Trust (EBT): ‘Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc UK Employee Benefit Trust’.

The Group has de facto control of the assets, liabilities and shares held by the Trust and bear their benefits and risks. The Group records 
assets and liabilities of the Trust as its own.

In compliance with IAS 32 ‘Financial Instruments: Presentation Group’, shares held by the EBT are included in the Consolidated 
Statement of Financial Position as a reduction in equity. Gains and losses on Group shares are recognised directly in reserves.

IFRS not yet effective and not adopted early
New accounting standards not yet applied.

At the date of authorisation of the Annual Financial Statements, the following new and revised IFRSs that are potentially relevant to the 
Group, and which have not been applied in the Annual Financial Statements, were in issue but not yet effective (and in some cases had 
not yet been adopted by the EU):

•  Annual Improvements to IFRSs: 2015–17 Cycle, IFRS 3, IFRS 11, IAS, IAS 23 – effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 

1 January 2019

•  IFRS 16, Leases – effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2019

•  IFRIC 23, Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments – effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2019

IFRS 16 is effective for annual periods beginning 1 January 2019 and will replace IAS 17 Leases. The standard represents a significant 
change in the accounting and reporting of leases for lessees as it provides a single lessee accounting model. As such it requires 
lessees to recognise assets and liabilities for all leases unless the underlying asset has a low value or the lease term is 12 months or 
less. The standard will require the capitalisation of a lease element of contracts held by the Group which under the existing accounting 
standard would not be considered a lease. Early adoption is permitted if IFRS 15 ‘Revenue from Contracts with Customers’ has also 
been applied, however the Group has chosen not to undertake this option.

As at 31 December 2018, the Group holds a number of operating leases, which currently, under IAS 17, are expensed on a straight-line 
basis over the lease term. The Group has made the following estimates of the approximate impacts of adopting the new standard, 
which are sensitive to all changes up to the application date. If the standard had been adopted in the current year, a depreciation 
charge of around £1.0 million in relation to the right-of-use asset and a finance expense charge of around £0.4 million would have 
been recognised in place of the operating lease charge of £1.3 million. In addition, a right-of-use asset of £9.7 million and a largely 
offsetting lease liability of approximately £10.0 million would have been recognised in the Statement of Financial Position.

4   Segment information
During the year ended 31 December 2018, the Group continued to operate under two business units. The Branded Business Unit 
focused on selling, marketing and innovation of all AMS branded products, whether sold directly by our sales teams or through our 
distributors. The OEM Business Unit focused on the distribution, marketing and innovation of the Group’s products that are supplied 
to our medical device partners under their brands. Our business unit structure aims to enhance focus, improve marketing efficiencies 
and support strategic initiatives of the Group and is the level at which the Board reviews and evaluates performance. 

The Group has identified some significant benefits accessible by implementing a realignment to our Business Units. The changes 
include the transfer of ActivHeal (£6.3 million sales in 2018) from Branded to OEM, and the renaming of the Business Units to Surgical 
and Woundcare respectively to better reflect the nature of the business. The new structure was implemented in January 2019 and will 
be presented in this way from the H1 2019 results onwards. 

Under the new structure, our Surgical Unit (previously the Branded Unit) will only include the sales, marketing, research, development 
and innovation of all our surgical products. Woundcare (previously the OEM Unit) will now include all advanced woundcare sales, 
marketing, research, development and innovation of all woundcare devices, regardless of whether they are sold under an AMS or a 
partner brand name.

80 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Segment information about these businesses is presented below with the comparative information restated to align with the new 
segmental structure.

Year ended 31 December 2018

Revenue

Result

Adjusted segment operating profit

Amortisation of acquired intangibles

Segment operating profit

Unallocated expenses

Exceptional costs

Operating profit

Finance income

Finance costs

Profit before tax

Tax

Profit for the year

At 31 December 2018

Other information

Capital additions:

Software intangibles

Research & development

Property, plant and equipment

Depreciation and amortisation

Statement of Financial Position

Assets

Segment assets

Unallocated assets

Consolidated total assets

Liabilities

Segment liabilities

Year ended 31 December 2017 

Revenue

Result

Adjusted segment operating profit

Amortisation of acquired intangibles

Segment operating profit

Unallocated expenses

Exceptional costs

Profit from operations

Finance income

Finance costs

Profit before tax

Tax

Profit for the year

Branded 
£’000

OEM 
£’000

Consolidated 
£’000

62,060

40,538

102,598

18,273

10,990

29,263

(76)

(5)

(81)

18,197

10,985

29,182

(560)

(402)

28,220

378

(164)

 28,434

(5,784)

22,650

Branded 
£’000

OEM 
£’000

Consolidated 
£’000

170

815

1,731

(1,761)

134

577

1,331

(1,397)

304

1,392

3,062

(3,158)

132,234

62,709

194,943

519

195,462

14,235

8,229

22,464

Branded 
£’000

OEM 
£’000

Consolidated 
£’000

55,244

41,664

96,908

14,461

(125)

14,336

11,363

25,824

(9)

(134)

11,354

25,690

(450)

–

25,240

147

(110)

25,277

(5,143)

20,134

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

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Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsNotes Forming Part of the Consolidated Financial Statements continued

4   Segment information continued

At 31 December 2017

Other information

Capital additions:

Software intangibles

Research & development

Property, plant and equipment

Depreciation and amortisation

Statement of Financial Position

Assets

Segment assets

Unallocated assets

Consolidated total assets

Liabilities

Segment liabilities

Branded 
£’000

OEM 
£’000

Consolidated 
£’000

715

425

1,563

(1,192)

243

435

1,338

(1,790)

958

860

2,901

(2,982)

112,057

56,580

168,637

81

168,718

10,406

5,876

16,282

Geographical segments
The Group operates in the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, with sales offices in Russia and a sales presence in 
the US. In presenting information on the basis of geographical segments, segment revenue is based on the geographical location of 
customers. Segment assets are based on the geographical location of the assets.

The following table provides an analysis of the Group’s sales by geographical market, irrespective of the origin of the goods/services, 
based upon location of the Group’s customers:

United Kingdom

Germany

Europe excluding United Kingdom and Germany

United States of America

Rest of World

The following table provides an analysis of the Group’s total assets by geographical location.

United Kingdom

Germany

Europe excluding United Kingdom and Germany

United States of America

Year ended 
31 December 
2018 
£’000

Year ended 
31 December 
2017 
£’000

18,447

19,416

23,987

37,317

3,431

17,266

19,062

22,939

35,330

2,311

102,598

96,908

Year ended 
31 December 
2018 
£’000

120,501

66,485

5,765

2,711

Year ended 
31 December 
2017 
£’000

98,305

65,212

4,743

458

195,462

168,718

82 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

5  Profit from operations

Profit from operations is arrived at after charging:

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment

Amortisation of: 

– acquired intellectual property rights

– software intangibles

– development costs

Operating lease rentals – plant and machinery

– land and buildings

Research and development costs expensed to the income statement

Cost of inventories recognised as expense

Write down of inventories expensed

Staff costs

Net foreign exchange loss

Year ended 
31 December 
2018 
£’000

Year ended 
31 December 
2017 
£’000

2,159

2,053

81

593

325

225

1,031

3,079

37,927

780

33,559

88

134

415

380

248

1,005

2,052

37,336

628

29,920

2,427

6   Exceptional items
During 2018, £402,000 of exceptional costs were incurred mainly relating to the acquisition of Sealantis Ltd (2017: £nil).

7  Auditor’s remuneration
Amounts payable to Deloitte LLP and their associates in respect of both audit and non-audit services:

Fees payable to the Company’s auditor and their associates for the audit of the Company’s  
annual accounts

Fees payable to the Company’s auditor and their associates for other audit services to the Group

and the audit of the Company’s subsidiaries

Total audit fees

Audit related assurance services

Other services

Total non-audit fees

Year ended 
31 December 
2018 
£’000

Year ended 
31 December 
2017 
£’000

 20 

 18 

 105 

 125 

 14 

 7 

 21 

 97 

 115 

 13 

6 

 19 

 146 

 134 

Fees payable to the Company’s auditor, Deloitte LLP and its associates, for non-audit services to the Company are not required 
to be disclosed in subsidiaries’ accounts because the Consolidated Financial Statements are required to disclose such fees on a 
consolidated basis.

A description of the work of the Audit Committee is set out in the Governance section of the Annual Report which includes 
explanations of how the audit objectivity and independence is safeguarded when non-audit services are provided by the Auditor. 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

83 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsNotes Forming Part of the Consolidated Financial Statements continued

8  Employees
The average monthly number of employees of the Group during the year, including Executive Directors, was as follows:

Production

Research and development

Sales and marketing

Administration

Staff costs for all employees, including Executive Directors, consists of:

Wages and salaries

Social Security costs

Pension costs

Share-based payments (see Note 29)

9  Directors’ emoluments

Remuneration for management services

Pension

Amounts paid to third parties

Share-based payments

Year ended 
31 December 
2018 
Number

Year ended 
31 December 
2017 
Number

353

39

137

100

629

343

36

128

96

603

Year ended 
31 December 
2018 
£’000

Year ended 
31 December 
2017 
£’000

26,699

23,697

3,983

1,218

1,659

3,853

1,091

1,279

33,559

29,920

Year ended 
31 December 
2018 
£’000

Year ended 
31 December 
2017 
£’000

902

49

67

418

1,436

1,046

48

66

395

1,555

The Group’s highest paid Director is disclosed in the Remuneration Report on page 58.

Retirement benefits are accruing to the following number of Directors under money purchase schemes

2

2

10  Remuneration of Key Management Personnel
The key management of the Group comprises the Directors of the Group together with senior members of the management team. 
Their aggregate compensation is shown below:

Salaries and short-term employee benefits

Pension

Share-based payments

11  Finance income

Bank interest

84 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Year ended 
31 December 
2018 
£’000

Year ended 
31 December 
2017 
£’000

2,109

 2,286 

107

750

 100 

 740 

 2,966 

 3,126 

Year ended 
31 December 
2018 
£’000

Year ended 
31 December 
2017 
£’000

378

 147 

12  Finance costs

Amortisation of facility fees

13  Taxation 
a) Analysis of charge for the year

Current tax:

Tax on ordinary activities – current year

Tax on ordinary activities – prior year

Deferred tax:

Tax on ordinary activities – current year

Tax on ordinary activities – prior year

Tax charge for the year

b) Factors affecting tax charge for the year

Year ended 
31 December 
2018 
£’000

Year ended 
31 December 
2017 
£’000

 164 

 110 

Year ended 
31 December 
2018 
£’000

Year ended 
31 December 
2017 
£’000

5,859

(126)

5,733

5,397

(293)

5,104

107

 (56) 

51

39

–

39

5,784

5,143

The Group has chosen to use a weighted average country tax rate rather than the UK tax rate for the reconciliation of the charge for 
the year to the profit per the Income Statement. The Group operates in several jurisdictions, some of which have a tax rate in excess of 
the UK tax rate. As such, a weighted average country tax rate is believed to provide the most meaningful information to the users of the 
Financial Statements.

The tax assessed for the year is lower (2017: lower) than the weighted average Group tax rate of 21.08% (2017: 21.91%) as 
explained below:

Profit before taxation

Weighted average Group tax rate 21.08% (2017: 21.91%) 

Effects of:

Expenses not deductible for tax purposes and other timing differences

Patent Box Relief

Write off of intangible assets

Share-based payments

Adjustments in respect of prior year – current tax

Adjustments in respect of prior year and rate changes – deferred tax

Taxation

Year ended 
31 December 
2018 
£’000

Year ended 
31 December 
2017 
£’000

28,434

5,994

25,277

5,538

(22)

(318)

210

102

(126)

(56)

5,784

1

(310)

170

37

(293)

 – 

5,143

Legislation to reduce the main rate of UK corporation tax to 17% was passed by parliament in September 2016 to take effect from 
1 April 2020. The reduction in the main rate to 17% had been substantively enacted at the Statement of Financial Position date and, 
therefore, UK deferred tax assets and liabilities are calculated in these financial statements at this rate.

In addition to the amount charged to the Income Statement and other Comprehensive Income, the Group has recognised directly 
in equity: 

•  Excess tax deductions related to share-based payments on exercised options

•  Changes in excess deferred tax deductions related to share-based payments, totalling £107,000 surplus: (2017: £356,000 deficit).

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

85 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsNotes Forming Part of the Consolidated Financial Statements continued

14  Dividends
Amounts recognised as distributions to equity holders in the period:

Final dividend for the year ended 31 December 2017 of 0.75p (2016: 0.62p) per Ordinary Share

Interim dividend for the year ended 31 December 2018 of 0.42p (2017: 0.35p) per Ordinary Share

Proposed final dividend for the year ended 31 December 2018 of 0.90p (2017: 0.75p) per Ordinary Share

Year ended 
31 December 
2018 
£’000

Year ended 
31 December 
2017 
£’000

 1,591 

 901 

 2,492 

1,921

 1,307 

 742 

 2,049 

1,591

The proposed final dividend is subject to approval by the shareholders and has not been included as a liability in these Financial Statements.

15  Earnings per share
The calculation of the basic and diluted earnings per share, based on statutory earnings and adjusted earnings, is based on the 
following data:

Number of shares

Weighted average number of Ordinary Shares for the purposes of basic earnings per share

Effect of dilutive potential Ordinary Shares: share options, deferred share bonus, LTIPs

Weighted average number of Ordinary Shares for the purposes of diluted earnings per share

Profit for the year attributable to equity holders of the parent

Exceptional costs

Amortisation of acquired intangible assets

Year ended 
31 December 
2018 
‘000

Year ended 
31 December 
2017 
‘000

213,146

211,563

2,911

2,760

216,057

214,323

£’000

22,650

402

81

£’000

20,134

–

134

Adjusted profit for the year attributable to equity holders of the parent pre exceptional costs

23,132

20,268

Earnings per share

Basic – pre exceptional

Basic – post exceptional

Diluted – pre exceptional

Diluted – post exceptional

Adjusted basic (before exceptional items)

Adjusted diluted (before exceptional items)

Adjusted basic (post exceptional items)

Adjusted diluted (post exceptional items)

pence

10.82

10.63

10.67

10.48

10.85

10.71

10.66

10.52

pence

9.52

9.52

9.39

9.39

9.58

9.46

9.58

9.46

86 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

16   Acquired intellectual property rights, software intangibles and development costs

2018

Cost

At beginning of year

Additions

Disposals/impairment

Exchange differences

Transfer of asset to property, plant and equipment

At end of year

Amortisation

At beginning of year

Charged in the year

Disposals/impairment

Exchange differences

At end of year

Net book value

At 31 December 2018

Acquired 
intellectual  
property rights 
£’000

Software  
intangibles 
£’000

Development 
and 
recertification 
costs 
£’000

Total 
£’000

 13,237 

 4,711 

 – 

 – 

 79 

 – 

 304 

(139)

(6)

(225)

 4,606 

 1,392 

 22,554 

 1,696 

 – 

(1)

 – 

(139)

72

(225)

 13,316 

 4,645 

 5,997 

 23,958 

 3,562 

 1,633 

 81 

 – 

–

 593 

(138)

9

 2,471 

 325 

 – 

(3)

 7,666 

 999 

(138)

6

 3,643 

 2,097 

 2,793 

 8,533 

 9,673 

 2,548 

 3,204 

 15,425 

Acquired intellectual property rights were initially recognised on the acquisition of MedLogic Global Limited representing patents and 
on the acquisition of RESORBA representing brand names, know-how and customer listings and contracts.

Intangible assets are amortised on a straight-line basis and the amortisation is recognised within administration costs, the largest 
intangible asset being RESORBA® ‘know-how’ and GENTA-COLL® brand name which are being amortised over ten and 15 years 
respectively with three and eight years remaining, with the exception of the RESORBA® brand name, which the Directors believe has 
an unlimited useful economic life and has a carrying value of £9,283,000. In reaching this assessment, the Directors have considered 
that the RESORBA® brand has existed for over 80 years and is widely recognised as a market leader in the surgical market.

2017

Cost

At beginning of year

Additions

Disposals/impairment

Exchange differences

At end of year

Amortisation

At beginning of year

Charged in the year

Disposals/impairment

Exchange differences

At end of year

Net book value

At 31 December 2017

Acquired 
intellectual  
property rights 
£’000

Software  
intangibles 
£’000

Development 
costs 
£’000

Total 
£’000

 12,897 

– 

 – 

 340 

 13,237 

 3,429 

 134 

 – 

(1) 

 3,724 

 958 

(14)

 43 

 3,735 

 20,356 

 860 

 1,818 

 – 

11

(14)

394

 4,711 

 4,606 

 22,554 

 1,224 

 415 

(14) 

8

 2,090 

 380 

 – 

1

 6,743 

 929 

(14) 

8

 3,562 

 1,633 

 2,471 

 7,666 

 9,675 

 3,078 

 2,135 

 14,888 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

87 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsNotes Forming Part of the Consolidated Financial Statements continued

17  Property, plant and equipment

2018

Cost

At beginning of year

Additions

Disposals

Transfer of assets from intangible assets

Exchange adjustment

At end of year

Depreciation

At beginning of year

Provided for the year

Disposals

Exchange adjustment

At end of Year 

Net book value

At 31 December 2018

Freehold land,  
property and 
improvements 
£’000

Short  
leasehold 
improvements 
£’000

Plant and 
machinery 
£’000

Fixtures and 
fittings 
£’000

Motor 
vehicles 
£’000

Total 
£’000

 5,321 

 604 

–

 – 

 37 

 12 

 25,807 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 2,306 

(473)

225

 52 

 752 

 152 

(13)

–

 3 

 1,139 

 33,031 

–

–

–

 7 

 3,062 

(486)

225

 99 

 5,962 

 12 

 27,917 

 894 

 1,113 

 35,931 

 801 

 148 

 – 

 14 

 963 

 10 

 14,436 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 1,652 

(399)

 21 

 10 

 15,710 

 441 

 172 

(10)

 2 

 605 

 324 

 187 

–

 8 

 16,012 

 2,159 

(409)

 45 

 519 

 17,807 

 4,999 

 2 

 12,207 

 289 

 627 

 18,124 

At 31 December 2018, the Group had entered into contractual commitments for the acquisition of property, plant and equipment 
amounting to £1,035,000 (2017: £388,000).

The net book value of plant and equipment includes £125,000 of plant and machinery (2017: £146,000) of capitalised borrowing costs 
relating to the Winsford site. 

Freehold land,  
property and 
improvements 
£’000

Short  
leasehold 
improvements 
£’000

Plant and 
machinery 
£’000

Fixtures and 
fittings 
£’000

Motor 
vehicles 
£’000

Total 
£’000

2017

Cost

At beginning of year

Additions

Disposals

Exchange adjustment

At end of year

Depreciation

At beginning of year

Provided for the year

Disposals

Exchange adjustment

At end of year 

Net book value

At 31 December 2017

 5,034 

 142 

–

 145 

 5,321 

 657 

 140 

–

 4 

 801 

 12 

 23,876 

–

–

–

 2,308 

(558)

 181 

 688 

 60 

–

 4 

 719 

 391 

–

 29 

 30,329 

 2,901 

(558)

 359 

 12 

 25,807 

 752 

 1,139 

 33,031 

 10 

 12,983 

–

–

–

 1,659 

(294)

 88 

 386 

 54 

–

 1 

 116 

 200 

–

 8 

 14,152 

 2,053 

(294)

 101 

 10 

 14,436 

 441 

 324 

 16,012 

 4,520 

 2 

 11,371 

 311 

 815 

 17,019 

88 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

18  Deferred tax
The following are the major deferred tax liabilities and assets recognised by the Group and movements thereon during the current and 
prior reporting year.

At 31 December 2016

Charge(credit) to income

Charge(credit) to equity

Exchange adjustment

At 31 December 2017

Charge/credit to income

Credit to equity

Exchange adjustment

At 31 December 2018

Share-based 
payment 
£’000

Advanced  
capital 
allowances 
£’000

 684 

 34 

 356 

 – 

 1,074 

 110 

(107)

 – 

(613)

 26 

 – 

 – 

(587)

 76 

 – 

 – 

Intangible 
assets 
£’000

(2,920)

25

 – 

(83)

(2,978)

25

 – 

(46)

Research and 
development 
assets 
£’000

(303)

(127)

 – 

 – 

(430)

(263)

 – 

 – 

Total 
£’000

(3,152)

(42)

 356 

(83)

(2,921)

(52)

(107)

(46)

 1,077 

(511)

(2,999)

(693)

(3,126)

Certain deferred tax assets and liabilities have been offset where there is a legal, enforceable right to do so. The following is the analysis 
of the deferred tax balances (after offset) for financial reporting purposes:

Deferred tax liabilities

Deferred tax assets

19  Goodwill

Cost

At 1 January 

Exchange differences 

At 31 December 

2018 
£’000

(3,303)

177

(3,126)

2017 
£’000

(3,120)

 199 

(2,921)

2018 
£’000

2017 
£’000

41,801

 344 

42,145

40,337

1,464

41,801

Two cash generating units (CGU) exist within the Branded segment whereby goodwill has been allocated. CGU1 has £1.8 million 
(2017: £1.8 million) of goodwill allocated, and CGU2 has goodwill and indefinite useful life intangible assets of £39.1 million and 
£9.3 million (2017: £38.8 million and £9.2 million) respectively.

Goodwill arose on the acquisition of Advanced Medical Solutions B.V. on 30 September 2009 and the acquisition of RESORBA on 
22 December 2011.

The goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful economic life have been allocated to the relevant CGU based upon the 
underlying identification of operations and assets to which the goodwill and intangibles relate to, as follows:

At 31 December 2018

Branded: CGU1

CGU2

OEM

Consolidated

Intangible 
assets  
with indefinite  
useful life 
£’000

– 

Total 
£’000

1,793

9,283

48,424

 – 

1,211

 9,283 

51,428

Goodwill 
£’000

1,793

39,141

1,211

42,145

The Group tests goodwill annually for impairment, or more frequently if there are indications that goodwill might be impaired.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

89 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial Statements 
Notes Forming Part of the Consolidated Financial Statements continued

19  Goodwill continued
The recoverable amounts have been determined based on a value-in-use calculation on a cash generating unit basis, which uses cash 
flow projections based on financial budgets approved by the Directors covering a 12-month period. These budgets have been adjusted 
for specific risk factors that take into account sensitivities of the projection. The impact of Brexit outcomes is not considered to have a 
material impact upon the forecasts applied in the impairment review. The base 12-month projection is extrapolated using reasonable 
growth rates specific to each cash generating unit up to year five of between 0% and 14%, and with growth not exceeding the long-
term average growth rate for the industry for years six to 20. Using a forecasting period of 20 years is deemed reasonable given the 
nature of the products sold by the CGUs. The growth rate would have to fall significantly in order for an impairment to be required. 
A discount rate of between 7.3% and 8.05% per annum (2017: between 6.5% and 7.25%), being the Group’s current pre tax weighted 
average cost of capital adjusted for risk, has been applied to these cash flows, being an estimation of current market risks and the time 
value of money. The Group has conducted a sensitivity analysis on the impairment test. The Directors believe that any reasonably 
possible further change in the key assumptions on which the recoverable amount is based would not cause any of the carrying 
amounts to exceed the relevant recoverable amount. 

20  Inventories

Raw materials

Work in progress

Finished goods

2018 
£’000

6,526

3,373

4,901

2017 
£’000

4,773

2,723

3,577

14,800

11,073

There is no material difference between the replacement cost of stock and the amount at which it is stated in the Financial Statements. 

Total gross inventories

Inventory impairment

Net inventory

21  Trade and other receivables

Current assets

Trade receivables

Other receivables

Derivative financial instruments

Prepayments and accrued income

Non-current assets

Derivative financial instruments

Prepayments and accrued income

Amount receivable for the sale of goods 

Loss allowance

Net trade receivables

2018 
£’000

16,552

(1,752)

14,800

2017 
£’000

13,256

(2,183)

11,073

2018 
£’000

2017 
£’000

24,660

19,041

694

–

1,817

27,171

186

381

1,342

20,950

 – 

 415 

 415 

2018 
£’000

 277 

 9 

 286 

2017 
£’000

24,937

19,233

(277)

(192)

24,660

19,041

The Group’s principal financial assets are cash and trade receivables. The Group’s credit risk is primarily attributable to its trade receivables.

No interest is charged on the receivables within the contracted credit period. Thereafter, interest may be charged at 2% per month on 
the outstanding balance. In determining the recoverability of a trade receivable the Group considers any change in the credit quality of 
the trade receivable from the date credit was initially granted up to the reporting date. The concentration of credit risk is limited due to 
the Group’s large and unrelated customer base. Accordingly, the Directors believe that there is no further credit provision required in 
excess of the allowance for impairments.

90 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Before accepting any new customer, the Group assesses the potential customer’s credit quality and defines credit limits by customer. 
Limits are reviewed on an ongoing basis and reflect current payment history.

The Group believes that the unimpaired amounts that are past due are still collectible in full, based on historic payment behaviour 
and extensive analysis of customer credit risk – a large proportion of debts overdue over 30 days were recovered post the Statement 
of Financial Position date. The Group does not hold any collateral or other credit enhancements over these balances. The carrying 
amount and ageing of these debtors is summarised below.

Ageing of overdue but not impaired receivables

31 to 60 days overdue

61 to 90 days overdue

Total

Movement in loss allowance

Balance at the beginning of the year

Impairment losses recognised 

Amounts written off as uncollectible

Amounts recovered during the year

Balance at the end of the year

2018 
£’000

1,693

146

1,839

2017 
£’000

832

 107 

939

Year ended 
31 December 
2018 
£’000

Year ended 
31 December 
2017 
£’000

192

126

(8)

(33)

277

236

9

(15)

(38)

192

Analysis of customers 
In the year ended 31 December 2018, one customer accounted for more than 10% of the Group’s revenue (2017: one). This customer 
accounted for 16% of the Group’s revenue in 2018 (2017: 14%).

22  Investments, cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents

2018 
£’000

2017 
£’000

76,391

62,454

Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash and short-term bank deposits with an original maturity of three months or less. The carrying 
amount of these assets is approximately equal to their fair value.

23  Trade and other payables

Current liabilities

Trade payables

Other payables

Derivative financial instruments

Accruals and deferred income

Non-current liabilities

Other payables

Derivative financial instruments

2018 
£’000

2017 
£’000

 3,962 

 2,378 

 2,008 

 6,295 

 2,578 

 2,051 

 – 

 5,918 

 14,643 

 10,547 

 258 

 397 

 655 

 310 

 – 

 310 

Trade payables, other payables and accruals and deferred income principally comprise amounts outstanding for trade purchases and 
ongoing costs. 

No interest is charged on trade payables that are within pre-agreed credit terms. Thereafter, interest may be charged on the 
outstanding balances at various interest rates. The Group has financial risk management policies in place to ensure that all payables are 
paid within the pre-agreed credit terms. 

The Directors consider that the carrying amount of trade payables approximates to their fair value.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

91 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsNotes Forming Part of the Consolidated Financial Statements continued

24  Financial instruments
Categories of financial instruments
All financial instruments held by the Group, as detailed in this Note, are classified as ‘Loans and Receivables’ (trade and other 
receivables and cash and cash equivalents), ‘Held to maturity investments’ (short-term investments), ‘Financial Liabilities Measured 
at Amortised Cost’ (trade and other payables, financial liabilities and obligations under finance leases), ‘Derivative Instruments in 
Designated Hedge Accounting Relationships’ (cash flow hedges) and ‘Fair Value Through Profit and Loss (FVTPL)’ (derivative financial 
instruments) under IFRS 9 ‘Financial Instruments’ and (finance leases under IAS 17 ‘Leases’).

Carrying value

Financial assets

Loans and receivables (including cash and cash equivalents)

Derivative instruments in designated hedge accounting relationships

Financial liabilities

Derivative instruments in designated hedge accounting relationships

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost

2018 
£’000

2017 
£’000

 102,160 

 81,690 

 – 

 658 

 2,406 

 – 

 15,298 

 10,857 

In December 2018 the Group entered into a multi-currency facility with the Royal Bank of Scotland and HSBC. The principle features 
of the facility are: 

•  The committed value of the facility is £80 million

•  There is an uncommitted accordion of an additional £20 million

•  It is unsecured

•  Facility will expire in December 2023

•  The interest payable on drawings under the loan is based on inter-bank interest rates (EURIBOR or, if Sterling denominated LIBOR) 

plus a sliding scale margin determined by the Group’s leverage: the margin is currently 0.60%

•  The facility has two covenants – interest cover (ratio of EBITDA to net finance charges) must be above 4:1 and leverage (ratio of Total 

Net Debt to adjusted EBITDA) should not exceed 3:1

•  It was undrawn at the end of the year

The Risk Management section on pages 30 to 33 provides an explanation of the financial risks faced by the Group and the objectives 
and policies for managing those risks including hedging practices adopted. The information below deals with the financial assets 
and liabilities.

(a) Maturity of financial liabilities
The maturity profile of the Group’s financial liabilities, of which other loans and finance lease obligations are at fixed rates and 
denominated in Sterling whilst derivative financial instruments are non-interest bearing, is as follows:

2018

Trade and other payables

At 31 December 2018

2017

Trade and other payables

At 31 December 2017 

On demand  
or within  
one year 
£’000

Between  
one and  
two years 
£’000

Between  
two and  
five years 
£’000

Five 
years  
or more 
£’000

Total 
financial 
liabilities 
£’000

 14,643 

 14,643 

 450 

 450 

 158 

 158 

 47 

 47 

 15,298 

 15,298 

On demand  
or within  
one year 
£’000

Between  
one and  
two years 
£’000

Between  
two and  
five years 
£’000

Five 
years  
or more 
£’000

Total 
financial 
liabilities 
£’000

 10,547 

 10,547 

 53 

 53 

 158 

 158 

 99 

 99 

 10,857 

 10,857 

Interest 
rate 
%

 – 

 –

Interest 
rate 
%

 – 

– 

92 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

(b) Interest rate and currency of financial assets
The currency and interest rate profile of the financial assets of the Group is as follows:

Investments and cash and cash equivalents

Currency

Sterling

US Dollar

Euro

At 31 December 2018

Currency

Sterling

US Dollar

Euro

At 31 December 2017

Floating 
£’000

Non-interest 
bearing 
£’000

Total 
%

 48,321 

 25,059 

 73,380 

 334 

 1,279 

 1,613 

 1,398 

 58 

26,396

76,391

 1,340 

49,995

Floating 
£’000

Non-interest 
bearing 
£’000

Total 
%

 43,173 

 16,043 

 59,216 

 191 

 1,785 

 947 

 315 

 1,138 

 2,100 

 45,149 

 17,305 

 62,454 

Trade and other receivables
The Directors consider that the carrying amount of trade and other receivables approximates to their fair value.

Sterling

US Dollar

Euro

2018 
£’000

 11,396 

 12,636 

 3,406 

27,438

2017 
£’000

8,545

8,228

4,177

20,950

The financial assets all mature within one year.

(c) Currency exposures
At 31 December 2018, the Group had unhedged US Dollar currency exposures of £nil (2017: £nil) and unhedged Euro currency 
exposures of £nil (2017: £nil).

Risk sensitivity 
The Group estimates that a 10% movement in the £:US$ or £:Euro exchange rate would have impacted 2018 Sterling revenues by 
approximately 3.6% and 2.5% respectively and in the absence of any hedging this would have had an impact on profit of 3.0% and 0.7%.

Forward foreign exchange contracts 
It is the policy of the Group to enter into forward foreign exchange contracts to cover specific foreign currency payments and receipts.

The following table details the forward foreign currency contracts outstanding as at the year-end:

Outstanding contracts

Cash flow hedges

Sell US dollars

Less than 3 months

3 to 6 months

7 to 12 months 

Over 12 months

Average contract rate

Notional principle

Fair value

2018 
USD:£1

2017 
USD:£1

2018 
USD ‘000

2017 
USD ‘000

2018 
£’000

2017 
£’000

1.319

1.432

1.423

1.407

1.382

1.369

1.283

1.289

10,400

7,500

17,000

7,000

41,900

8,500

6,500

14,800

5,900

35,700

(230)

(589)

(1,175)

(397)

(2,391)

(132)

(39)

693

277

799

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

93 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsNotes Forming Part of the Consolidated Financial Statements continued

24  Financial instruments continued

Sell Euros

Less than 3 months

3 to 6 months

7 to 12 months 

Over 12 months

Average contract rate

Notional principle

Fair value

2018 
EUR:£1

2017 
EUR:£1

2018 
EUR ‘000

2017 
EUR ‘000

2018 
£’000

1.114

1.116

1.110

1.110

1.215

1.177

1.138

–

600

960

1,920

320

3,800

1,000

1,100

1,800

–

3,900

 –

(4)

(9)

(2)

(15)

2017 
£’000

(66)

(46)

(29)

–

(141)

The fair value amounts (classified under level two of the fair value hierarchy) presented above are the difference between the market 
value of equivalent instruments at the Statement of Financial Position date and the contract value of the instruments. No profits or 
losses are included in operating profit in the year (2017: £nil) in respect of FVTPL contracts. The loss of £3,064,000 (2017: 4,192,000 
gain) in respect of cash flow hedges has been taken to reserves.

25   Fair value of financial assets and liabilities
The Directors consider that the fair value of the Group’s financial instruments do not differ significantly from their book values.

26  Foreign exchange rates

Currency

US Dollar

Euro

27  Share capital

Number of Ordinary Shares of 5p each

At 1 January 2017

Share options exercised

At 31 December 2017

Share options exercised

At 31 December 2018

Average rate

Closing rate

Percentage change

2018

2017

2018

2017

Average 
%

Closing 
%

1.3374

1.1296

1.2880

1.1459

1.28

1.1179

1.3517

1.1271

4

(1)

(5)

(1)

Allotted,  
called up
and fully paid 
£‘000

210,474

 2,168 

212,642

831

213,473

During the year, employees exercised share options and options over LTIPs for 642,121 shares (2017: 1,981,490) at a range of option 
prices from 34p to 247p.

During the year, 353,045 (2017: 236,640) shares were issued under the Deferred Share Bonus Scheme and the Deferred Annual Bonus 
Scheme at the nominal value of 5p per share. At the Statement of Financial Position date, 424,652 (2017: 412,583) shares are retained 
by the Trust to meet the matching requirements of the scheme.

Ordinary Shares of 5p each

At 1 January 2017

Share options exercised

At 31 December 2017

Share options exercised

At 31 December 2018

94 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Allotted,  
called up 
and fully paid 
£‘000

10,524

108

10,632

 42 

10,674

28  Reserves
Investment in own shares
This is the nominal value of the shares held in trust on behalf of employees in respect of the DSB scheme.

Other reserve
This represents Advanced Medical Solutions Limited’s share premium account arising from merger accounting.

Hedging reserve
The hedging reserve represents the cumulative amount of gains and losses on hedging instruments deemed effective in cash flow 
hedges. The cumulative deferred gain or loss on the hedging instruments is recognised in profit or loss only when the hedged 
transaction impacts the profit or loss, or is included as a basis adjustment to the non-financial hedged item, consistent with the 
applicable accounting policy.

Translation reserve
Exchange differences relating to the translation of the net assets of the Group’s foreign operations, which relate to subsidiaries only, 
from their functional currency into the parent’s functional currency, being Sterling, are recognised directly in the translation reserve. 
Gains and losses on hedging instruments that are designated as hedges of net investments in foreign operations are included in the 
translation reserve.

A £466,000 gain has been recorded in the translation reserve during the period, which would otherwise have been recognised in 
Administration costs (2017: £2,187,000 gain) if hedge accounting had not been adopted.

29  Share-based payments
The charge for share-based payments under IFRS 2 arises across the following schemes:

Unapproved Executive Share Option Scheme, Enterprise Management Incentive Scheme  
and Company Share Option Scheme

Long-Term Incentive Plan

Deferred Share Bonus Scheme and Deferred Annual Bonus Scheme

2018 
£’000

136

936

587

1,659

2017 
£’000

37

908

334

1,279

Unapproved Executive Share Option Scheme, Enterprise Management Incentive Scheme (EMI) and 
Company Share Option Plan (CSOP)
The fair value of the executive options is calculated based on a Black-Scholes Merton model assuming the inputs below: 

Grant date

Share price at grant date

Exercise price

Expected life

Contractual life

Risk-free rate

Expected volatility

Expected dividend yield

Fair value of options

Grant date

Share price at grant date

Exercise price

Expected life

Contractual life

Risk-free rate

Expected volatility

Expected dividend yield

Fair value of options

20/04/2009

15/04/2011

08/09/2011

10/05/2012

26/04/2013

21/05/2013

33.75p

33.75p

3 yrs

10 yrs

2.40%

34%

0%

6p

88.0p

88.0p

3 yrs

10 yrs

1.92%

18%

0.7%

9p

86.25p

86.25p

3 yrs

10 yrs

1.92%

18%

0.7%

9p

69.08p

69.08p

3 yrs

10 yrs

0.39%

34%

0.7%

13p

77.5p

77.5p

3 yrs

10 yrs

0.36%

36%

0.7%

15p

74.0p

74.0p

3 yrs

10 yrs

0.49%

36%

0.7%

14p

15/04/2014

19/09/2014

02/04/2015

18/04/2016

06/04/2017

13/04/2018

115.75p

115.75p

3 yrs

10 yrs

0.80%

36%

0.7%

23p

121.75p

121.75p

3 yrs

10 yrs

0.80%

36%

0.7%

24p

132.0p

132.0p

3 yrs

10 yrs

0.80%

31%

0.7%

22p

184.6p

184.6p

3 yrs

10 yrs

0.67%

25%

0.4%

25p

246.7p

246.7p

3 yrs

10 yrs

0.18%

23%

0.4%

29p

308.0p

308.0p

3 yrs

10 yrs

0.94%

34%

0.7%

41p

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

95 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsNotes Forming Part of the Consolidated Financial Statements continued

29  Share-based payments continued
Under the terms of the Company’s Share Option Schemes, approved by shareholders in 2010, the Board may offer options to 
purchase Ordinary Shares in the Company to all employees of the Company at the market price on a date determined prior to the 
date of the offer. Since 2005, individuals who are entitled to awards under the LTIP are no longer eligible to receive options under the 
Company’s Share Option Schemes.

Performance targets are assessed over a three-year period from the date of grant. Once options have vested they can be exercised 
during the period up to ten years from the date of grant.

The expected volatility was determined by calculating the historic volatility of the Group’s share price over the previous three years. 

Options have been granted over the following number of Ordinary Shares which were outstanding at 31 December 2018:

Date of grant

Option 
price (p)

Weighted 
average price 
at exercise (p)

Number of 
options as at 
1 January 2018

Remaining 
life 1 January 
2018

Issued

Lapsed

Exercised

Number of 
options as at 
31 December 
2018

Remaining life 
31 December 
2018

Unapproved Executive Share Option Scheme

10.05.12

15.04.14

19.09.14

69.08

115.75

121.75

 5,500 

 328.33 

 140,000 

 326.99 

 53,720 

02.04.15

132.00

 312.03 

 285,296 

18.04.16

184.60

 300.00 

 667,213 

4.4

6.3

6.7

7.2

8.3

06.04.17

246.70

 300.00 

 509,710 

 9.3 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 5,500 

(18,000)

 122,000 

(20,360)

 33,360 

(145,750)

 139,546 

(45,742)

(20,383)

 601,088 

(6,887)

(2,243)

 500,580 

13.04.18

308.00

 – 

 – 

 – 

 427,725 

(23,421)

 – 

 404,304 

Enterprise Management Incentive Scheme

20.04.09

16.04.10

33.75

42.00

 330.50 

 3,000 

326.55

 48,000 

Company Share Option Plan

15.04.11

08.09.11

10.05.12

26.04.13

21.05.13

15.04.14

19.09.14

02.04.15

18.04.16

06.04.17

88.00

86.25

69.08

77.50

74.00

115.75

121.75

132.00

184.60

246.70

 6,000 

 1,000 

 1,000 

 1,000 

 3,100 

317.49

 323.79 

 53,000 

 24,640 

 312.37 

 99,704 

 148,053 

 223,163 

1.3

2.3

3.3

3.7

4.4

5.3

5.4

6.3

6.7

7.2

8.3

 9.3 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

(3,000)

 – 

(10,000)

 38,000 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(3,100)

 6,000 

 1,000 

 1,000 

 1,000 

 – 

– (28,600)

 24,400 

–

–

–

(11,241)

–

 24,640 

(81,977)

 17,727 

–  148,053 

–  211,922 

–  156,476 

13.04.18

308.00

 – 

 – 

 171,754 

(15,278)

The weighted average remaining contractual life of the options outstanding at 31 December 2018 is 7.7 years (2017: 8.0 years).

2,273,099 

599,479 

(102,569)

(333,413) 2,436,596 

Outstanding at beginning of the year

Issued

Exercised

Lapsed

Outstanding at end of the year

Exercisable at end of the year

2018

2017

Number of 
Options

Weighted 
average 
exercise price 
(p)

Weighted 
average exercise 
price  
(p)

Number of 
Options

 2,273,099 

183.50

 2,511,108 

 599,479 

308.00

 762,425 

(333,413)

(102,569)

185.20

242.13

(802,523)

(197,911)

 2,436,596 

219.12  2,273,099 

 256,900 

183.43

 339,960 

138.49

246.70

280.35

172.61

183.50

102.92

96 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

3.4

5.3

5.7

6.2

7.3

8.3

9.3

–

1.3

2.3

2.7

3.4

4.3

–

5.3

5.7

6.2

7.3

8.3

9.3

Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP)
The fair value of the LTIP is calculated based on a binomial tree model assuming the inputs below:

Grant date

06/06/2014

02/04/2015

10/09/2015

18/04/2016

06/04/2017

02/11/2017

13/04/2018

Share price at grant date

117.0p

132.0p

151.5p

184.6p

246.7p

344.7p

308.0p

Exercise price

Expected life

Contractual life

Risk-free rate

Expected volatility

Expected dividend yield

Probability of performance conditions

Fair value of option

0p

3 yrs

10 yrs

0.80%

36%

0.7%

75%

85.9p

0p

3 yrs

10 yrs

0.80%

29%

0.7%

80%

64.4p

0p

3 yrs

10 yrs

0.80%

27%

0.7%

80%

0p

3 yrs

10 yrs

0.67%

25%

0.4%

64%

0p

3 yrs

10 yrs

0.18%

23%

0.4%

64%

0p

3 yrs

10 yrs

0.18%

23%

0.4%

64%

0p

3 yrs

10 yrs

0.94%

25%

0.4%

72%

75.5p

159.0p

220.0p

220.0p

222.0p

The expected volatility was determined by calculating the historic volatility of the Group’s share price over the previous three years.

The entitlement to shares under the LTIP is subject to achieving the performance conditions referred to on page 52. The numbers 
shown are maximum entitlements and the actual number of shares issued (if any) will depend on these performance conditions 
being achieved.

Long-Term Incentive Plan

Date of 
grant

Market price at 
date of grant  

(p)

Number of 
LTIPs 
at 1 January 
2018

Remaining life
1 January 
2018

Issued

Lapsed

Exercised

Number of 
LTIPs at
31 Dec
2018

Remaining life 
31 December 
2018

06.06.14

117.00

 87,483 

02.04.15

132.00  428,213 

10.09.15

151.50  300,329 

18.04.16

184.60  610,023 

6.5

 7.3 

7.7

8.3

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

06.04.17

246.70  452,469 

9.3  459,855 

02.11.17

13.04.18

344.70

308.00

 9,308 

 9.8 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 364,645 

 – 

(38,450)

49,033

(54,389)

(270,258) 103,566

(38,143)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 –  262,186

 –  610,023

 –  912,324

 – 

9,308

 –  364,645

1,887,825 

 824,500 

(92,532) (308,708) 2,311,085 

5.5

6.3

6.7

7.3

8.3

8.8

9.3

The weighted average remaining contractual life of the LTIPs outstanding at 31 December 2018 is 6.4 years (2017: 8.1 years).

Outstanding at beginning of the year

Issued

Exercised

Lapsed

Outstanding at end of the year

Exercisable at end of the year

The exercise price of these options is £1 for each issue of LTIPs.

2018 
Number of 
options 

2017 
Number of 
options 

 1,887,825 

 2,853,648 

 824,500 

 469,163 

(308,708)

(1,178,967)

(92,532)

(256,019)

 2,311,085 

 1,887,825 

 49,033 

 87,483 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

97 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsNotes Forming Part of the Consolidated Financial Statements continued

29  Share-based payments continued
Deferred Share Bonus Scheme (DSB) 
The fair value of the DSB shares are calculated based on a Black-Scholes Merton model assuming the inputs below:

Grant date

Share price at grant date

Exercise price

Expected life

Contractual life

Risk-free rate

Expected volatility

Expected dividend yield

Probability of performance conditions

Fair value of option

Grant date

Share price at grant date

Exercise price

Expected life

Contractual life

Risk-free rate

Expected volatility

Expected dividend yield

Probability of performance conditions

Fair value of option

12/04/2007

02/05/2008

23/04/2009

05/05/2010

11/05/2011

10/05/2012

18.25p

35.50p

34.00p

40.32p

83.00p

70.625p

0p

3.5 yrs

10 yrs

5.00%

27%

0%

100%

14p

0p

3.5 yrs

10 yrs

5.00%

38%

0%

100%

30p

0p

3 yrs

10 yrs

2.40%

30%

0%

100%

29p

0p

5 yrs

10 yrs

2.40%

34%

0%

100%

34p

0p

5 yrs

10 yrs

1.92%

18%

0.7%

100%

72p

0p

5 yrs

10 yrs

0.39%

34%

0.7%

100%

61p

02/07/2013

30/04/2014

29/04/2015

03/05/2016

02/05/2017

13/04/2018

74.125p

126.0p

141.5p

183.0p

264.1p

306.8p

0p

5 yrs

10 yrs

0.69%

36%

0.7%

100%

63p

0p

5 yrs

10 yrs

0.80%

36%

0.7%

100%

110p

0p

5 yrs

10 yrs

0.80%

31%

0.7%

100%

124p

0p

5 yrs

10 yrs

0.67%

25%

0.4%

100%

160p

0p

5 yrs

10 yrs

0.18%

23%

0.4%

100%

233p

0p

5 yrs

10 yrs

0.94%

25%

0.4%

72%

222p

The expected volatility was determined by calculating the historic volatility of the Group’s share price over the previous three years.

The entitlement to shares under the DSB is subject to a three-year holding period. Additionally, for certain levels of share matching, 
additional performance conditions also need to be achieved. The actual number of shares that will be matched will depend on these 
performance conditions being met. Details on the DSB are given on page 52.

98 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Deferred Share Bonus Plan 

Date of 
grant

Market price at 
date of grant  

(p)

Number of 
DSB matching 
shares at 
1 January 2018

Remaining life
1 January 
2018

Issued

Lapsed

Exercised

Number of 
 DSB matching 
shares at
31 December 
2018

Remaining life 
31 December 
2018

12.04.07

02.05.08

23.04.09

05.05.10

11.05.11

10.05.12

02.07.13

30.04.14

29.04.15

03.05.16

02.05.17

13.04.18

18.25

35.50

34.00

40.32

83.00

70.63

 11,351 

 13,640 

 24,548 

 23,560 

 14,193 

 16,930 

74.13  128,026 

126.00

 92,916 

141.50  229,098 

183.00  323,815 

264.10  277,622 

0.0

0.3

1.3

2.3

3.4

4.4

5.5

6.3

7.3

 8.3 

 9.3 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

306.77

 – 

 – 

 290,008 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

(164)

 11,187 

 – 

 13,640 

(5,132)

 19,416 

(7,440)

 16,120 

(4,335)

 9,858 

(6,368)

 10,562 

(25,956)

 102,070 

(6,925)

 85,991 

(88,047)

 141,051 

(1,758)

(3,490)

 318,567 

(2,263)

(2,599)

(2,990)

 272,369 

(1,996)

 285,413 

 – 

 – 

0.3

1.3

2.4

3.4

4.5

5.3

6.3

7.3

8.3

9.3

1,155,699 

290,008 

(6,620)

(152,843) 1,286,244 

The weighted average remaining contractual life of the DSBs outstanding at 31 December 2018 is 6.9 years (2017: 7.4 years)

Outstanding at beginning of the year

Issued

Exercised

Lapsed

Outstanding at end of the year

Exercisable at end of year

The exercise price of the matching shares is £nil.

2018 
Number of 
options

2017 
Number of 
options 

1,155,699

1,094,296

290,008

279,362

(152,843)

(185,496)

(6,620)

(32,463)

1,286,244

1,155,699

268,844

325,164

Deferred Annual Bonus Scheme (DAB) 
The fair value of the DSB are calculated based on a Black-Scholes Merton model assuming the inputs below:

Grant date

Share price at grant date

Exercise price

Expected life

Contractual life

Risk-free rate

Expected volatility

Expected dividend yield

Probability of performance conditions

Fair value of option

21/05/2014

15/04/2015

18/04/2016

06/04/2017

13/04/2018

115.4p

129.0p

184.6p

246.7p

308.0p

0p

3 yrs

10 yrs

0.80%

31%

0.7%

100%

115p

0p

3 yrs

10 yrs

0.80%

31%

0.7%

100%

129p

0p

3 yrs

10 yrs

0.67%

25%

0.4%

100%

183p

0p

3 yrs

10 yrs

0.18%

23%

0.4%

100%

250p

0p

3yrs

10 yrs

0.94%

25%

0.4%

100%

308p

The expected volatility was determined by calculating the historic volatility of the Group’s share price over the previous three years.

The DAB scheme began on 21 May 2014. Participants compulsorily defer part of their bonus for the relevant financial year and they 
vest at the end of a three-year period from the time of grant.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

99 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial Statements 
Notes Forming Part of the Consolidated Financial Statements continued

29  Share-based payments continued

Date of 
grant

Market price at 
date of grant  

(p)

Number of DAB 
matching 
shares at 
1 January 2018

Remaining life
1 January 
2018

Issued

Lapsed

Exercised

Number of 
 DAB matching 
shares at
31 December 
2018

Remaining life 
31 December 
2018

Deferred Annual Bonus Plan 

21.05.2014

15.04.2015

18.04.2016

06.04.2017

115.40

129.00

184.60

246.70

13.04.2018

308.00

 520 

 78,293 

 89,888 

 64,886 

 – 

 233,587 

 6.3 

 7.3 

 8.3 

 9.3 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 63,037 

 63,037 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 520 

(57,446)

 20,847 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 89,888 

 64,886 

 63,037 

(57,446)

 176,141 

5.3

6.3

7.3

8.3

8.8

The weighted average remaining contractual life of the DABs outstanding at 31 December 2018 is 7.5 years (2017: 8.2).

Outstanding at beginning of the year

Issued

Exercised

Lapsed

Outstanding at end of the year

Exercisable at end of the year

2018 
Number of 
options 

2017 
Number of 
options 

 233,587 

 219,845 

 63,037 

 64,886 

(57,446)

(51,144)

 – 

 – 

 239,178 

 233,587 

 520 

 520 

30  Commitments under operating leases
As at 31 December 2018, the Group had outstanding commitments under operating leases, which fall due as follows: 

Amounts payable under operating leases:

Within one year

In two to five years

After five years

2018

Land and 
buildings 
£’000

1,038

4,264

9,113

14,415

2017

Land and 
buildings 
£’000

1,034

4,245

10,147

15,426

Other 
£’000

331

435

– 

766

Other 
£’000

206

131

 4 

341

31  Related party transactions
Transactions between the Company and its subsidiaries, which are related parties, have been eliminated on consolidation and there are 
no other related party transactions to disclose.

32  Subsequent events
On 31 January 2019, the Company announced the acquisition of Sealantis Limited, a developer of alginate-based tissue adhesive 
technology platform, for US$25 million (approximately £19 million). The acquisition was funded from existing cash reserves and the 
Company will pay royalties on future sales of existing products in development until the end of 2027. Given the proximity of the 
transaction to the announcement of the Group’s financial statements, a full purchase price allocation exercise has not yet been 
completed and the valuation of the assets acquired is subject to amendment on finalisation of the fair value exercise. Acquired net 
assets have a provisional value of £0.3 million prior to fair value adjustments according to the management accounts of Sealantis 
Limited as at 31 January 2019. The remainder of the acquisition price will be allocated between intangible assets, including goodwill 
and other intangible assets, with a significant proportion representing products under development and related intellectual property. 
None of the goodwill is expected to be deductible for tax purposes.

100 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

 
Company Balance Sheet 
At 31 December 2018

Non current assets

Investments in subsidiaries

Loans and other financial assets

Current assets

Investments

Trade and other receivables

Cash and cash equivalents

Current liabilities 

Trade and other payables

Net current assets

Net assets

Equity shareholders’ funds

Share capital

Share premium 

Share-based payments reserve

Investment in own shares

Retained earnings

Equity attributable to equity holders of the parent

Statement of Changes in Equity 
For the year ended 31 December 2018

At 1 January 2017

Share-based payments

Share options exercised

Shares purchased by EBT

Shares sold by EBT

Profit for the year

Dividends paid

At 31 December 2017

Share-based payments

Share options exercised

Shares purchased by EBT

Shares sold by EBT

Profit for the year

Dividends paid

At 31 December 2018

Note

2018 
£’000

2017 
£’000

3

 52,147 

52,147

4 15

–

 52,562 

 52,147 

4

5

 3,380 

 71,676 

 75,056 

2,722

58,175

 60,897 

(7,411)

 66,774 

(9,024)

51,873

 119,188 

 104,020 

 10,674 

 35,192 

 7,333 

(156)

10,632

34,778

4,676

(152)

 67,164 

54,086

 120,207 

 104,020 

Share capital 
£’000

Share 
premium 
£’000

Investment in 
own shares 
£’000

Share-based 
payments 
£’000

Retained 
earnings 
£’000

Total 
£’000

 10,524 

34,005

(152)

 3,469 

 46,612 

 94,458 

–

 108 

–

–

–

–

– 

773

–

–

–

–

–

–

(484)

 484 

 – 

 – 

10,632

34,778

(152)

 – 

 42 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

–

414 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

(600)

 596 

 – 

 – 

1,279

 (72)

–

–

–

–

4,676

1,659 

 998 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

–

–

–

–

 9,523 

(2,049)

 1,279 

 809 

(484)

 484 

 9,523 

(2,049)

54,086

104,020

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 1,659 

 1,454 

(600)

 596 

15,570

 15,570 

(2,492)

(2,492)

10,674

35,192

(156)

7,333

67,164

120,207

The financial statements of Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc (registration number 2867684) on pages 101 to 105 were approved 
by the Board of Directors and authorised for issue on 18 April 2019 and were signed on its behalf by:

C Meredith
Chief Executive Officer

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

101 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsNotes to the Company Financial Statements

1  Significant accounting policies
Basis of preparation
These Financial Statements were prepared in accordance with Financial Reporting Standard 101 Reduced Disclosure Framework 
(‘FRS 101’). In preparing these Financial Statements, the Company applies the recognition, measurement and disclosure requirements 
of International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the EU (‘Adopted IFRSs’), but makes amendments where necessary in 
order to comply with the Companies Act 2006 and has set out below where advantage of the FRS 101 disclosure exemptions has 
been taken.

As permitted by FRS 101, the Company has taken advantage of the disclosure exemptions available under that standard in relation 
to share-based payments, financial instruments, capital management, presentation of a Cash Flow statement, presentation of 
comparative information in respect of certain assets, standards not yet effective, impairment of assets and business combinations, 
discontinued operations and related party transactions.

Critical judgements in applying the Company’s accounting policies and areas of key 
estimation uncertainty
In the process of applying the Company’s accounting policies, which are described below, no judgements have been made by 
the Directors, nor do any areas of key estimation uncertainty exist that have a significant effect on the amounts recognised in the 
Financial Statements. 

Impairment of investments and intragroup receivables
Investment and receivable carrying values are reviewed for impairment if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the 
carrying amount of an asset or cash generating unit is not recoverable. Recoverable amount is the higher of fair value, as supported by 
management valuation, less costs to sell and value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to 
their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and risks specific 
to the asset for which the estimates of future cash flows have not been adjusted.

Investments in subsidiaries
Investments in subsidiaries are shown at cost less provision for impairment .

Foreign currencies
Transactions in currencies other than Pounds Sterling are recorded at the rates of exchange prevailing on the dates of the transactions. 
At each Statement of Financial Position date, monetary assets and liabilities that are denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated 
at the rates prevailing on the Statement of Financial Position date. Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in 
a foreign currency are not retranslated. Gains and losses arising on retranslation are included in the profit or loss for the period.

Taxation
Tax on the profit or loss for the period comprises current and deferred tax.

Current tax
Current tax is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the year, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the 
reporting date and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous years.

Deferred tax
Deferred tax is recognised in respect of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial 
reporting purposes and the amounts used for taxation purposes. Temporary differences in respect of the initial recognition of assets 
and liabilities that affect neither accounting nor taxable profit are not provided for. The amount of deferred tax provided is based on the 
expected manner of realisation or settlement of the carrying amount of assets and liabilities, using tax rates enacted or substantively 
enacted at the reporting date.

Trade and other creditors
Trade and other creditors are non-interest bearing and recognised initially at fair value. Subsequent to initial recognition they are 
measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Finance charges
Finance charges comprise interest payable on interest-bearing loans and borrowings and fair value losses on interest rate swap 
derivative financial instruments. Finance charges are recognised in the Income Statement on an effective interest method.

102 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Financial instruments
Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognised in the Company’s Statement of Financial Position when the Company becomes 
a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. Financial assets are derecognised when the contractual rights to the cash flows 
from the financial assets expire or are transferred. Financial liabilities are derecognised when the obligation specified in the contract is 
discharged, cancelled or expires.

Derivatives
The Company uses derivative financial instruments to hedge its exposure to interest rate risks arising from operational, financing 
and investment activities. In accordance with its treasury policy, the Company does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments 
for trading purposes. However, derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are accounted for as trading instruments. 
Derivative financial instruments are recognised initially at fair value and re-measured at each period end. The gain or loss on  
re-measurement to fair value is recognised immediately in the Income Statement. The Company has elected not to apply hedge 
accounting. Forward currency contracts are recognised at fair value in the Statement of Financial Position with movements in fair value 
recognised in the Income Statement for the period. The fair value of the instruments is the estimated amount that the Company would 
receive or pay to terminate the swap at the reporting date, taking into account current interest rates and the respective risk profiles of 
the swap counterparties.

Derivatives are presented as assets when the fair values are positive and as liabilities when the fair values are negative. 
A derivative is presented as a non-current asset or a non-current liability if the remaining maturity of the instrument is more than 
12 months and it is not expected to be realised or settled within 12 months.

Share-based payments
The Company has applied the requirements of IFRS 2 Share-based payments.

The Company issues equity-settled share-based payments to certain employees. Equity-settled share-based payments are measured at 
fair value at the date of grant. The fair value determined at the grant date of the equity-settled share-based payments is expensed on a 
straight-line basis over the vesting period. At each Statement of Financial Position date, the Company revises its estimate of the number 
of equity instruments expected to vest as a result of the effect of non-market based vesting conditions. The impact of the revision 
of the original estimates, if any, is recognised in profit or loss such that the cumulative expense reflects the revised estimates with a 
corresponding adjustment to the equity-settled employee benefits reserve.

Income Statement

2 
As permitted by Section 408 of the Companies Act 2006 the Company has elected not to present its own Income Statement for the 
year. Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc reported a profit for the financial year ended 31 December 2018 of £15,570,000 (2017: 
Profit of £9,523,000).

The Auditor’s remuneration for audit and other services is disclosed in Note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

The average number of employees in the year was 16 (2017: 14), all of whom were classified as Administration (2017: same). 
The Directors’ remuneration is detailed in Note 9 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

3 

Investments in subsidiaries

Cost

At 1 January 2018 and 31 December 2018

Provisions for impairment

At 1 January 2018 and 31 December 2018

Net Book value

At 1 January 2018 and 31 December 2018

Investments in 
subsidiaries 
£’000

80,817

28,670

52,147

Shares in Group undertakings and loans to Group undertakings have been written down to recognise losses in subsidiary companies.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

103 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial Statements 
Notes to the Company Financial Statements continued

Investments in subsidiaries continued

3 
The following were subsidiary undertakings at the end of the year and have all been included in the consolidated accounts.

Name

Country of operation

Proportion of 
voting rights and 
ordinary share 
capital held

Nature of business

Registered address

Advanced Medical 
Solutions Limited

England

100%

Development and manufacture 
of medical products

Advanced Medical Solutions 
(UK) Limited

England

100%

Holding Company

Advanced Medical Solutions 
Trustee Company Limited

England

100%

Trustee Company

Advanced Medical Solutions 
(Plymouth) Limited

England

100%

Development and manufacture 
of medical products

Advanced Healthcare 
Systems Limited

England

100%*

Dormant

MedLogic Global 
Holdings Limited

England

100%¶

Holding Company

Innovative 
Technologies Limited

England

100%‡

Dormant

Advanced Medical Solutions 
(Europe) Limited

England

100%

Providing financial support 
to other Group entities

Premier Park, 33 Road One, 
Winsford Industrial Estate, 
Winsford, Cheshire CW7 3RT, 
United Kingdom

Premier Park, 33 Road One, 
Winsford Industrial Estate, 
Winsford, Cheshire CW7 3RT, 
United Kingdom

Premier Park, 33 Road One, 
Winsford Industrial Estate, 
Winsford, Cheshire CW7 3RT, 
United Kingdom

Premier Park, 33 Road One, 
Winsford Industrial Estate, 
Winsford, Cheshire CW7 3RT, 
United Kingdom

Premier Park, 33 Road One, 
Winsford Industrial Estate, 
Winsford, Cheshire CW7 3RT, 
United Kingdom

Premier Park, 33 Road One, 
Winsford Industrial Estate, 
Winsford, Cheshire CW7 3RT, 
United Kingdom

Premier Park, 33 Road One, 
Winsford Industrial Estate, 
Winsford, Cheshire CW7 3RT, 
United Kingdom

Premier Park, 33 Road One, 
Winsford Industrial Estate, 
Winsford, Cheshire, CW7 3RT, 
United Kingdom

Advanced Medical 
Solutions BV

Advanced Medical Solutions 
(Germany) GmbH

Netherlands

100%

Development and manufacture 
of medical products

Munnikenheiweg 35, 4879 NE 
Etten-Leur, Netherlands

Germany

100%^

Holding Company

Am Flachmoor 16, 90475 
Nuremberg, Germany

Resorba Medical GmbH

Germany

100%#

Development and manufacture 
of medical products

Am Flachmoor 16, 90475 
Nuremberg, Germany

Germany

100%#

Manufacture of medical products Sierkdorfer Str. 15, 23730,  

MPN Medizin Produkte 
Neustadt GmbH

Resorba s.r.o.

Czech Republic 100%#

Manufacture and sales office of 
medical products

Haltravska No. 9/578, 34401, 
Domazlice, Czech Republic

Neustadt in Holstein, Germany

Resorba ooo

Russia

100%#

Sales office of medical products

Advanced Medical Solutions 
(USA) Inc

USA

100%¶

Marketing support of 
medical products

Fadeeva Str. 5, 125047 
Moscow, Russia

2711 Caterville Road, Suite 400, 
Wilmington, Newcastle, 19808, 
Delaware, USA

*  Held indirectly through Advanced Medical Solutions Limited.
‡  Held indirectly through MedLogic Global Holdings Limited.
†  Held indirectly through Advanced Medical Solutions (UK) Limited.
^  s.291 of German Commercial Code invoked: No consolidated financial statements prepared for the German companies.
¶  Held indirectly through Advanced Medical Solutions (Plymouth) Limited.
#  Held indirectly through Advanced Medical Solutions (Germany) GmbH.

The above table reflects the situation at the year-end.

104 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

4  Trade and other receivables

Due within one year

Prepayments and accrued income

Other receivables

Amounts due from Group undertakings

Amounts Owed by Group undertakings

At 1 January

Movement

At 31 December

Provisions for impairment

At 1 January

At 31 December

Net book value

At 31 December

5  Creditors: amounts falling due within one year

Amounts owed to Group undertakings

Accruals and deferred income

Derivative financial instruments

6  Share capital
Details on the share capital of the Company are provided in Note 27 on page 94 to the Group’s accounts.

7  Share-based payments
The charge for share-based payments under IFRS 2 arises across the following schemes:

Unapproved Executive Share Option Scheme, Enterprise Management Incentive Scheme and 
Company Share Option Scheme

Long-Term Incentive Plan

Deferred Share Bonus Scheme

2018 
£’000

413

74

2,894

3,380

2018 
£’000

4,925

309

5,234

2017 
£’000

137

–

 2,585 

2,722

2017 
£’000

5,639

(714)

4,925

2,340

2,340

2,340

2,340

 2,894 

 2,585 

2018 
£’000

3,922

3,474

15

 7,411 

2017 
£’000

 5,635 

 3,248 

 141 

 9,024 

2018 
£’000

136

936

587

2017 
£’000

37

908

334

 1,659 

 1,279 

Details on the share-based payments of the Company are provided in Note 29 on pages 95 to 100 in the Notes to the Group’s accounts.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

105 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsFive Year Summary

Consolidated Income Statement (Pre-exceptional)

Revenue

Profit from operations

Profit attributable to equity holders of the parent

Basic earnings per share

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

Net assets employed

Non-current assets

Current assets

Total liabilities

Net assets

Shareholders’ equity

Share capital & investment in own shares

Share-based payments reserve

Share-based payments deferred tax reserve

Share premium account

Other reserve

Hedging reserve

Translation reserve

Retained equity

Equity attributable to equity holders of the parent

2018 
£m

2017 
£m

2016 
£m

2015 
£m

2014 
£m

 102.6 

 28.6 

 23.1 

10.8p

 76.3 

 119.2 

(22.5)

173.0

 10.5 

 7.3 

 0.7 

 35.2 

 1.5 

(2.4)

 3.3 

 116.8 

173.0

 96.9 

 25.2 

 20.1 

9.5p

 74.2 

 94.5 

(16.3)

152.4

 10.5 

 4.7 

 0.8 

 34.8 

 1.5 

 0.6 

 2.8 

 96.7 

 152.4 

 82.6 

 19.1 

 15.7 

7.5p

 70.1 

 74.9 

(19.5)

125.5

 10.4 

 3.5 

 0.5 

 34.0 

 1.5 

(3.5)

 0.6 

 78.6 

 125.5 

 68.6 

 17.0 

 14.1 

6.8p

 62.7 

 53.9 

(12.9)

103.7

 10.3 

 2.3 

 0.4 

 33.2 

 1.5 

(0.5)

(8.2)

 64.7 

 103.7 

 63.0 

 15.2 

 12.9 

6.2p

 66.8 

 37.8 

(11.5)

93.1

 10.2 

 1.6 

 0.3 

 32.8 

 1.5 

(0.5)

(4.9)

 52.1 

 93.1 

106 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Notice of Meeting

Notice is hereby given that the twenty-fifth Annual General Meeting of the Company will be held at 11.00 am on 5 June 2019 
at Guildhall Room, 85 Gresham Street, London, EC2V 7NQ for the following purposes:

As Ordinary Business:
1.   To receive the Report of the Directors and the Financial Statements of the Company for the year ended 31 December 2018 

(together with the Report of the Auditor thereon).

2.  To approve the Directors’ Remuneration Report for the year ended 31 December 2018.

3.  To re-appoint Deloitte LLP as Auditor and to authorise the Directors to fix their remuneration.

4.  To re-elect Penny Freer (who retires by rotation in accordance with the Articles of Association) as a Director of the Company. 

5.  To re-elect Steve Bellamy (who retires by rotation in accordance with the Articles of Association) as a Director of the Company.

6.   To re-elect Eddie Johnson (who formally retires and offers himself for re-appointment at the first AGM following his appointment) 

as a Director of the Company.

7.   To declare a final dividend of 0.90p per Ordinary Share, payable on 14 June 2019 to shareholders on the register at close of 

business on 24 May 2019.

As Special Business:
To consider and, if thought fit, to pass Resolutions 8 and 9, which will be proposed as of Ordinary Resolutions, and Resolutions 10 
and 11, which will be proposed as Special Resolutions.

8.   To approve the Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc 2019 Share Option Plan (2019 SOP] THAT: (i) the rules of the 2019 SOP, 
described in the circular of which the notice containing this resolution forms a part and produced in draft to the meeting and, 
for the purposes of identification initialled by the Chairman of the meeting, be and are hereby approved and adopted; and (ii) 
the Directors be and are hereby authorised: (a) to make such modifications to the 2019 SOP as they may consider appropriate 
and to do all such other acts and things as they may consider appropriate to implement the 2019 SOP; and (b) to adopt further 
plans based on the 2019 SOP but modified to take account of local tax, exchange control or securities law in overseas territories, 
provided that any shares made available under such further plans are treated as counting against any limits on individual or overall 
participation in the 2019 SOP.

9.   To authorise the Directors generally and unconditionally for the purposes of Section 551 of the Companies Act 2006 (the ‘2006 

Act’) to exercise all the powers of the Company to allot shares in the Company and to grant rights to subscribe for or to convert any 
security into shares in the Company (each an allotment of ‘relevant securities’) up to an aggregate nominal amount of £3,557,983 
provided that this authority is for a period expiring upon the earlier of the date of the Company’s next Annual General Meeting and 
15 months after the date of the passing of this Resolution but the Company may before such expiry make an offer or agreement 
which would or might require relevant securities to be allotted after such expiry and the Directors may allot relevant securities in 
pursuance of such offer or agreement notwithstanding that the authority conferred by this Resolution has expired. This authority 
is in substitution for all subsisting authorities, to the extent unused.

10.  Subject to the passing of Resolution 9 above, to authorise the Directors pursuant to Section 570 of the 2006 Act to allot equity 

securities (within the meaning of Section 560 of the 2006 Act) wholly for cash pursuant to the authority conferred by Resolution 9 
above as if Section 561(1) of the 2006 Act did not apply to any such allotment, provided that this power shall be limited to the 
allotment of equity securities:

(a)   in connection with an offer of such securities by way of rights to holders of Ordinary Shares in proportion (as nearly as may be 
practicable) to their respective holdings of such shares, but subject to such exclusions or other arrangements as the Directors 
may deem necessary or expedient in relation to fractional entitlements or any legal or practical problems under the laws of any 
territory, or the requirements of any regulatory body or stock exchange;

(b) otherwise than pursuant to sub-paragraph (a) above up to an aggregate nominal amount of £1,067,395; and

(c)  which shall expire on the earlier of the conclusion of the next Annual General Meeting of the Company and 15 months after the 
date of the passing of this Resolution, save that the Company may before such expiry make an offer or agreement which would 
or might require equity securities to be allotted after such expiry and the Directors may allot equity securities in pursuance of any 
such offer or agreement notwithstanding that the power conferred by this Resolution has expired.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

107 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial Statements 
 
 
Notice of Meeting continued

As Special Business: continued
11.  That the Company is hereby generally and unconditionally authorised for the purposes of Section 701 of the 2006 Act to make 

market purchases (within the meaning of Section 693(4) of the 2006 Act) of any of its Ordinary Shares of 5p each in the capital of 
the Company on such terms and in such manner as the Directors may from time to time determine provided that:

(a)  the maximum number of Ordinary Shares which may be purchased is 10,673,951;

(b) the minimum price which may be paid for each Ordinary Share is 5p which amount shall be exclusive of expenses, if any;

(c)  the maximum price (exclusive of expenses) which may be paid for each Ordinary Share shall not be more than 5% above the 
average of the middle market quotations for an Ordinary Share as derived from The London Stock Exchange Daily Official List 
for the five business days immediately preceding the date on which the ordinary share is purchased;

(d)  unless previously renewed, revoked or varied, this authority shall expire upon the earlier of the date of the Company’s next 

Annual General Meeting and 15 months after the date of the passing of this Resolution; and

(e)  under this authority the Company may make a contract to purchase Ordinary Shares which would or might be executed wholly 

or partly after the expiry of this authority, and may make purchases of Ordinary Shares pursuant to it as if this authority had 
not expired.

By order of the Board

Eddie Johnson
Company Secretary 

18 April 2019

Registered office:
Premier Park, 33 Road One, Winsford Industrial Estate, 
Winsford, Cheshire, CW7 3RT.

108 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes
1.   A member entitled to attend and vote at the meeting convened by the Notice set out on pages 107 to 113 may appoint a proxy to 
attend, speak and, on a poll to vote in his place. A holder of more than one Ordinary Share may appoint different proxies in relation 
to each or any of those Ordinary Shares.

2.   A member may appoint more than one proxy provided each proxy is appointed to exercise rights attached to different shares. 

A member may not appoint more than one proxy to exercise rights attached to any one share. To appoint more than one proxy 
notice must be given to the Company’s Registrars not later than 48 hours before the time appointed for the holding of the meeting.

3.   A proxy does not need to be a member of the Company but must attend the meeting to represent you. Details of how to appoint 
the Chairman of the meeting or another person as your proxy using the proxy form are set out at Note 1 of the proxy form. If you 
wish your proxy to speak on your behalf at the meeting you will need to appoint your own choice of proxy (not the Chairman) and 
give your instructions directly to them.

4.   On a vote on a Resolution on a show of hands at the meeting, a proxy has one vote for and one vote against if the proxy has been 
appointed by more than one member and the proxy has been instructed by one or more of the members to vote for the resolution 
and by one or more other member to vote against it.

5.   Any corporation which is a member can appoint one or more corporate representatives who may exercise on its behalf all of its 

powers as a member provided that they do not do so in relation to the same shares.

6.   A form of proxy is enclosed for use by members. To be effective, it must be completed and arrive not later than 48 hours before 
the time fixed for the meeting at Link Asset Services, PXS, 34 Beckenham Road, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 4TU. You may also deliver 
by hand to The Registry, 34 Beckenham Road, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 4TU during usual business hours.

7.   The Register of Directors’ Interests in the shares of the Company will be available for inspection at the registered office of the 

Company during usual business hours on any weekday (public holidays excepted) until the date of the meeting and also on that 
date and at the place of the meeting from 9.00 am until the conclusion of the meeting.

8.   The Company, pursuant to Regulation 41 of the Uncertificated Securities Regulations 2001, specifies that only those shareholders 
registered in the Register of Members of the Company as at close of business on 3 June 2019 shall be entitled to attend or vote 
at the aforesaid Annual General Meeting in respect of the number of shares registered in their names at that time. Changes in the 
entries in the relevant register of Securities after close of business on 3 June 2019 shall be disregarded in determining the rights of 
any person to attend or vote at the meeting.

9.   The draft rules of the Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc 2019 Share Option Plan (2019 SOP) will be available for inspection 

during normal business hours on Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays) at our registered office and at the offices of Osborne 
Clarke LLP, One London Wall, London, EC2Y 5EB from the date of this document until the close of the AGM and at the place of the 
AGM for at least 15 minutes before the AGM and during the AGM.

Notes on Special Business
Resolution 8: Approval of Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc 2019 Share Option Plan (2019 SOP)
The Company’s current Executive Share Option Scheme and Company Share Option Plan Old Plans are due to expire on 3 June 
2019 and 2 June 2020 respectively and therefore shareholders are being asked to approve a replacement plan, the main features 
of which are set out in the Appendix 1 on pages 111 to 113 of this document. The Remuneration Committee of the Company 
considers the 2019 SOP to be an important means of motivating key employees and align their interests with those of the Company’s 
shareholders. No new awards will be made under the Old Plans after the date of the AGM, provided shareholder approval is obtained 
for the 2019 SOP.

Resolution 9: Authority to allot Ordinary Shares and other relevant securities
This Resolution would give the Directors the authority to allot Ordinary Shares up to an aggregate nominal amount equal to £3,557,983 
(representing 71,159,677 Ordinary Shares of 5p each). This amount represents approximately one-third of the issued Ordinary Share 
capital of the Company as at 29 March 2019, the latest practicable date prior to publication of this Notice.

The authority sought under this resolution will expire at the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting of the Company held in 2020 
or, if earlier, 15 months after the passing of the resolution.

While the Directors have no present intention of issuing any of the authorised but unissued share capital, it is considered prudent and 
appropriate to maintain the flexibility that this authority provides.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

109 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsNotice of Meeting continued

Notes on Special Business continued
Resolution 10: Disapplication of Pre-emption Rights
Your Directors also require additional authority from shareholders to allot shares or grant rights over shares or sell treasury shares 
where they propose to do so for cash and otherwise than to existing shareholders in proportion to their existing holdings. Accordingly, 
Resolution 10 will be proposed as a Special Resolution to grant such authority. Apart from rights issues, open offers or any other pre-
emptive offer as mentioned the authority will be limited to the issue of shares and sales of treasury shares for cash up to an aggregate 
nominal value of £1,067,395 (being 10% of the Company’s issued Ordinary Share capital at 29 March 2019, the latest practicable date 
prior to publication of this Notice). This is in keeping with the extent for which such authority has been sought and given at each 
previous Annual General Meeting of the Company since 2006.

Allotments made under the authorisation in paragraph (a) of Resolution 10 would be limited to allotments by way of a rights issue only 
(subject to the right of the Directors to impose necessary or appropriate limitations to deal with, for example, fractional entitlements 
and regulatory matters).

If given, this authority will expire at the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting of the Company held in 2020 or, if earlier, 15 months 
after the passing of the Resolution.

Resolution 11: Purchase by the Company of its own shares
In certain circumstances, it may be advantageous for the Company to purchase its own shares. Under Section 701 of the 2006 Act, 
the Directors of a Company may make market purchases of that Company’s shares if authorised to do so. Your Directors believe 
that granting such approval would be in the best interests of shareholders in allowing Directors the flexibility to react promptly to 
circumstances requiring market purchases.

Accordingly, Resolution 11, which will be proposed as a Special Resolution, will give the Directors the authority to purchase issued 
shares of the Company under Section 701 of the 2006 Act.

The authority contained in this Resolution will be limited to an aggregate nominal value of £533,697 (representing 5% of the issued 
Ordinary Share capital of the Company as at 29 March 2019, the latest practicable date prior to publication of this Notice; representing 
10,673,951 Ordinary Shares of 5p each). The price which may be paid for those shares is also restricted as set out in the Resolution.

This authority will expire at the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting of the Company held in 2020 or, if earlier, 15 months after 
the passing of the Resolution.

The Board has no present intention of exercising this authority. However, this will be kept under review, and the Board will use this 
power only if and when, taking account of market conditions prevailing at the time, other investment opportunities, appropriate 
gearing levels and the overall financial position of the Group, they believe that the effect of such purchases will be in the best interests 
of shareholders generally and that they will result in an increase in earnings per share.

Shares purchased under this authority may be held as treasury shares. Shares held in treasury do not carry voting rights and no 
dividends will be paid on any such shares. Shares held in treasury in this way can be sold for cash or cancelled. This would allow the 
Company to manage its capital base more effectively and to replenish its distributable reserves.

If and when the Board resolves to exercise its authority to make market purchases, it will at that time decide whether shares purchased 
are to be cancelled or held in treasury.

As at 29 March 2019, the latest practicable date prior to publication of this Notice, there were share options outstanding over Ordinary 
Shares, representing 2.6% of the Company’s issued ordinary share capital. The Company has no warrants in issue in relation to its 
shares. If the buyback authority was to be exercised in full, these options would represent 2.8% of the Company’s ordinary issued 
share capital.

110 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Appendix 1
SUMMARY OF THE PRINCIPAL FEATURES OF THE ADVANCED MEDICAL SOLUTIONS 
GROUP PLC 2019 SHARE OPTION PLAN (“2019 SOP”)
Eligibility
The 2019 SOP will be operated and administered by the remuneration committee of the Board of Directors of the Company 
(“Remuneration Committee”). The Remuneration Committee will determine who may participate in the 2019 SOP and this will extend 
to any employee, excluding any Executive Director, of the Company or any of the Company’s subsidiaries (together the “Group”).

Forms of Options
Options granted under the 2019 SOP may be with a nil-cost or other exercise price to acquire Ordinary Shares in the Company 
(“Shares”), which may include an option which satisfies the conditions of Schedule 4, Income Tax (Earnings and Pensions) 
Act 2003 (“Option”).

Options will normally lapse on the date immediately before the tenth anniversary of the date of grant if they remain unexercised at 
that date.

Performance conditions 
The Remuneration Committee may set and test performance conditions which may attach to Options. Performance conditions may 
be amended or substituted if one or more events occur which cause the Remuneration Committee to consider that an amended or 
substituted performance condition would be more appropriate. 

In relation to the testing of the performance condition and the ultimate number of Shares subject to an Option that vest, the 
Remuneration Committee will have the right, in its absolute discretion, to reduce (down to zero, if appropriate) the number of 
Shares that would vest, taking account of the performance of the Company and the contribution of the participant over the 
performance period.

Grant of Options
Options may only be granted within the period of 42 days following the approval of the 2019 SOP by the Company’s shareholders, 
the announcement of the Company’s results for any period (whether full year results or interim results), from the date on which 
an individual becomes an eligible employee under the rules of the 2019 SOP or any day on which the Remuneration Committee 
determines that exceptional circumstances exist. If, during any such period, the Company is restricted from granting Options, 
Options may be made immediately following such restrictions ceasing to apply.

Terms of Options
Options may be granted over newly issued Shares, treasury Shares or Shares purchased in the market. Options are not transferable 
(other than on death). No payment will be required from participants for the grant of any Options.

Limits on the issue of Shares
The number of Shares which may be issued or issuable pursuant to rights granted in any 10 year period under the 2019 SOP and 
under any other employees’ share plan adopted by the Company may not exceed 15% of the issued ordinary share capital of the 
Company from time to time. 

Treasury Shares will be treated as newly issued for the purpose of these limits until such time as guidelines published by leading 
institutional investor representative bodies determine otherwise.

The above limits may be varied by the Remuneration Committee or Board, as appropriate, to take into account any variation in the 
Company’s share capital from time to time.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

111 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsNotice of Meeting continued

Vesting of Options 
The extent to which the performance conditions have been achieved and the level at which an Option consequently vests will 
normally be determined as soon as practicable after the end of any performance period (or on such later date as the Remuneration 
Committee determines).

At any time before or after the point at which an Option has vested, but the underlying Shares have yet to be issued or transferred to 
the participant, the Remuneration Committee may decide to pay a participant a cash amount equal to the value of the Shares he/she 
would otherwise have received.

Any Shares or cash that are to be issued, transferred or paid (as appropriate) to a participant in respect of a vested Option will be issued, 
transferred or paid (as appropriate) within 30 days of exercise.

Reduction for malus
The Remuneration Committee may take such steps as it considers appropriate to reduce the number of Options awarded (to nil if 
appropriate) and/or impose further conditions on the Options in certain circumstances. Such circumstances include, but are not 
limited to:

•  a material misstatement of the Company’s audited financial results;

•  a serious failure of risk management by the Company, any Group member or a relevant Business Unit; or

•  reputational damage to the Company, any Group member or a relevant business unit as a result of the Participant’s misconduct 

or otherwise.

Cessation of employment
Where the participant ceases to be employed by any member of the Group prior to the vesting of an Option by reason of death, ill 
health, injury, disability, a sale of the entity that employs the Participant out of the Group, redundancy, or for any other reason at the 
Remuneration Committee’s discretion (a “Good Leaver”), a participant’s unvested Option will usually continue and the Option will vest 
on the normal vesting date, unless the Committee determines that the Option shall vest on such other date as the Committee may 
specify at the date of cessation.

The extent to which an unvested Option will vest for a Good Leaver will be determined by: (i) the extent to which any performance 
condition is satisfied at the end of any performance period or, as appropriate, at the date on which the participant ceases to be 
employed by a Group company; and (ii) unless the Remuneration Committee decide otherwise, pro-rating to reflect the period from 
the start of the performance period until the date of cessation of employment. 

In the case of Good Leavers, Options will normally be exercisable from the date the Option may be exercised until the first anniversary 
of such date. 

Options, whether vested or not, will lapse immediately where the participant is lawfully dismissed without notice and in all other 
circumstances to the extent that the Options do not vest.

Corporate events
On a change of control of the Company, the number of Shares in respect of which Option vests shall be determined by the 
Committee, to the extent to which any performance condition has been satisfied at the date of change of control and, unless the 
Remuneration Committee determines otherwise, pro-rating to reflect the period from the start of the performance period to the date 
of the relevant event (or such other relevant period). The Option, to the extent vested, will then be exercisable for a period of one 
month and will then lapse.

Alternatively, the Remuneration Committee may permit or, in the case of an internal reorganisation or, if the Remuneration Committee 
determines, any other event, require Options to be exchanged for equivalent options which relate to Shares in a different company.

If other corporate events occur such as a demerger, special dividend or other event which, in the opinion of the Remuneration 
Committee, may affect the value of Shares to a material extent, the Remuneration Committee may determine that Options will vest 
conditional on the event occurring. The number of Shares in respect of which Options vest shall be determined by the Committee, 
having regard to the extent to which any performance condition has been satisfied and, unless the Remuneration Committee 
determines otherwise, pro-rating to reflect the period from the start of the performance period to the date of the relevant event 
(or such other relevant period). If the event does not occur, Options will continue.

112 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

Rights attaching to Shares
All Shares issued or transferred under the 2019 SOP will rank pari passu with all other Shares of the Company for the time being 
in issue (save as regards any rights attaching to such Shares by reference to a record date prior to the date of issue or transfer to 
the participant). 

Adjustments
In the event of any rights of capitalisation issue, sub-division, consolidation, reduction or other variation of the ordinary share capital, 
the Remuneration Committee or the Board, as appropriate, may make such adjustments as it considers appropriate to the number 
of Shares subject to Options and/or the price payable on the exercise of Options. 

Amendments and termination
The Remuneration Committee or the Board, as appropriate, may amend the 2019 SOP at any time, provided that prior approval of the 
Company’s shareholders in a general meeting will be required for amendments to the advantage of employees relating to eligibility, 
limits, the basis for determining a participant’s entitlement to, and the terms of, the Shares comprised in an Option and the impact of 
any variation of capital.

However, any minor amendment to benefit administration, or any amendment to take account of legislative changes, or to obtain or 
maintain favourable tax, exchange control or regulatory treatment in any jurisdiction, may be made by the Remuneration Committee 
or the Board, as appropriate, without shareholder approval.

No further Options may be made under the 2019 SOP on or after the tenth anniversary of the approval by shareholders of the 2019 
SOP but the rights of existing participants will not be affected by any termination.

Overseas plans
The Remuneration Committee or the Board, as appropriate, may establish such sub-plans or schedules to the 2019 SOP, modified 
to take account of local tax, exchange controls or securities laws if required to do so or if it is beneficial to do so in any overseas 
jurisdiction, provided that any Shares made available under such plans are treated as counting against the limits on individual and 
overall participation in the 2019 SOP.

Pension benefits
Benefits under the New Share Plans are non-pensionable.

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

113 

Company OverviewStrategic ReportGovernanceFinancial StatementsAdvisers

Nominated Advisor and Broker
Investec Bank plc 
30 Gresham Street 
London EC2V 7QN

Auditor
Deloitte LLP 
Statutory Auditor 
PO Box 500 
2 Hardman Street 
Manchester M60 2AT

Tax Adviser
PwC 
No. 1 Spinningfields 
1 Hardman Square 
Manchester M3 3EB

Solicitors
Goodwin Procter LLP 
100 Cheapside 
London EC2V 6DY

Registrars and Transfer Office
Link Registrars 
The Registry 
34 Beckenham Road 
Beckenham 
Kent BR3 4TU

Bankers
HSBC 
99–101 Lord Street 
Liverpool L2 6PG

Royal Bank of Scotland 
2nd Floor 
1 Spinningfields Square 
Manchester M3 3AP

Patent Attorneys
Marks & Clerk 
Manchester Office 
1 New York Street 
Manchester M1 4HD

Foley & Lardner LLC 
975 Page Mill Square 
Palo Alto CA 94304–1013

Public Relations
Consilium Strategic Communications 
41 Lothbury 
London EC2R 7HG

114 

Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc Annual Report 2018

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Registered Office:

Premier Park, 33 Road One  
Winsford Industrial Estate  
Winsford, Cheshire, CW7 3RT

Company Number: 2867684  
Tel: +44 (0)1606 863500  
Fax: +44 (0)1606 863600  
e-mail: info@admedsol.com

Web: www.admedsol.com

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