Quarterlytics / Australian Vintage

Australian Vintage

avg · LSE
Claim this profile
Ticker avg
Exchange LSE
Sector
Industry
Employees 501-1000
← All annual reports
FY2021 Annual Report · Australian Vintage
Sign in to download
Loading PDF…
PINPOINT-INVEST-EXIT

 2021 Annual Report

About 

Avingtrans plc has a proven 
strategy of “buy and build” in 
highly regulated engineering 
markets, a strategy it has named 
“Pinpoint-Invest-Exit”. Signifi cant 
shareholder value is delivered 
through a clear strategy, a strong 
balance sheet and an agile and 
experienced management team.

www.avingtrans.plc.uk

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   1

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   1

30/09/2021   11:56

30/09/2021   11:56

About us

Delivering shareholder value through a
proven strategy of Pinpoint-Invest-Exit in
highly regulated global engineering markets

Energy Division

Performance

critical solutions for

energy systems

The Group has a proven track record in 
delivering shareholder value through PIE:

● Identifying and executing prudent deals with precision and speed

● Building strong brands and value from constituent parts

● Crystallising these gains with periodic sales of businesses at advantageous valuations

● Returning the proceeds to shareholders 

Purchased Sigma1

2009

8

2010

9

2011

15

Sold JenaTec; Purchased Aerotech & PFW

2012

17

Purchased Maloney

2013

Purchased RMDG

2014

Oil price Shock

Purchased Rolls Royce pipes; Sold Sigma

Returned £19.4m to shareholders;
Purchase SciMag and Whiteley Read

Purchased Hayward Tyler Group
and Ormandy Group assets

Purchased Tecmag; 
Exited Whiteley Read

Purchased Booth & Energy Steel

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

Purchased Magnetica, sold Peter 
Brotherhood

20212

32

31

45

50

43

19

67

71

77

Medical Division

Innovative solutions

for medical systems

and research

137

Engineered Pumps and Motors (EPM) Division

The EPM division is built on one brand, Hayward Tyler. Established in 1815, Hayward Tyler designs, manufactures 

and services performance-critical electric motors and pumps to meet the most demanding of applications for the 

global energy industry, as both an OEM supplier and a trusted through life support partner.

Process Solutions and Rotating Equipment (PSRE) Division

The  PSRE  division  comprises  a  number  of  established  brands  with  expertise  across  the  global  energy  market. 

The brands specialise in the design, manufacture, integration and servicing of an extensive product and service 

off ering including bespoke high-integrity doors, containers and skidded systems.

0

30

60

90

120

150

1Remaining 25% of Sigma. 2As at 23 September 2021.

Market Cap £m

Tender Offer £m

Timeline

2010 (38p)

2012 (98p)

2016 (180p)

2017 (235p)

2021 (335p)

Development of the 

Precision instruments

The Aerospace Division, 

Acquisition of the Hayward

Peter Brotherhood sold for an 

aerospace and precision 

business, JenaTec, 

Sigma Components, 

Tyler Group for £29.4m and

enterprise value of £35.0m, 

components businesses

sold for £13.5m

sold for £65m 

creation of Energy and 

and acquisition of Magnetica

Medical Divisions

Medical (MII)

The medical division has special expertise in the design and manufacture of innovative equipment for the medical, 

science  and  research  communities.  Including  cutting-edge  products  for  medical  diagnostic  equipment;  high 

performance  pressure,  vacuum  vessels  and  composite  materials  for  research  organisations;  superconducting 

magnets and helium-free cryogenic systems.

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   2

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   2

30/09/2021   11:57

30/09/2021   11:57

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   3

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   3

30/09/2021   11:57

30/09/2021   11:57

About us

Delivering shareholder value through a

proven strategy of Pinpoint-Invest-Exit in

highly regulated global engineering markets

Energy Division

Performance
critical solutions for
energy systems

The Group has a proven track record in 

delivering shareholder value through PIE:

● Identifying and executing prudent deals with precision and speed

● Building strong brands and value from constituent parts

● Crystallising these gains with periodic sales of businesses at advantageous valuations

● Returning the proceeds to shareholders 

Purchased RMDG

2014

45

32

31

Purchased Sigma1

2009

8

2010

9

2011

15

Sold JenaTec; Purchased Aerotech & PFW

2012

17

Purchased Maloney

2013

Oil price Shock

Purchased Rolls Royce pipes; Sold Sigma

Returned £19.4m to shareholders;

Purchase SciMag and Whiteley Read

Purchased Hayward Tyler Group

and Ormandy Group assets

Purchased Tecmag; 

Exited Whiteley Read

Purchased Booth & Energy Steel

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

Purchased Magnetica, sold Peter 

Brotherhood

20212

50

43

19

67

71

77

0

30

60

90

120

150

1Remaining 25% of Sigma. 2As at 23 September 2021.

Market Cap £m

Tender Offer £m

137

Engineered Pumps and Motors (EPM) Division

The EPM division is built on one brand, Hayward Tyler. Established in 1815, Hayward Tyler designs, manufactures 
and services performance-critical electric motors and pumps to meet the most demanding of applications for the 
global energy industry, as both an OEM supplier and a trusted through life support partner.

Process Solutions and Rotating Equipment (PSRE) Division

The  PSRE  division  comprises  a  number  of  established  brands  with  expertise  across  the  global  energy  market. 
The brands specialise in the design, manufacture, integration and servicing of an extensive product and service 
off ering including bespoke high-integrity doors, containers and skidded systems.

Medical Division

Innovative solutions
for medical systems
and research

Timeline

2010 (38p)

2012 (98p)

2016 (180p)

2017 (235p)

2021 (335p)

Medical (MII)

The medical division has special expertise in the design and manufacture of innovative equipment for the medical, 
science  and  research  communities.  Including  cutting-edge  products  for  medical  diagnostic  equipment;  high 
performance  pressure,  vacuum  vessels  and  composite  materials  for  research  organisations;  superconducting 
magnets and helium-free cryogenic systems.

Development of the 

Precision instruments

The Aerospace Division, 

Acquisition of the Hayward

Peter Brotherhood sold for an 

aerospace and precision 

business, JenaTec, 

Sigma Components, 

Tyler Group for £29.4m and

enterprise value of £35.0m, 

components businesses

sold for £13.5m

sold for £65m 

creation of Energy and 

and acquisition of Magnetica

Medical Divisions

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   2

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   2

30/09/2021   11:57

30/09/2021   11:57

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   3

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   3

30/09/2021   11:57

30/09/2021   11:57

“

Commenting on the results,  
Roger McDowell, Chairman, said: 

“"The Group forged ahead despite 
continuing adverse impact from Covid-19 
and we ended the year with record adjusted 
profits and a solid cash position. Once again, 
our Pinpoint-Invest-Exit Strategy (“PIE”) has 
proved its worth with the successful sale of 
Peter Brotherhood delivering excellent 
returns for our shareholders. This is a great 
credit to our management team and 
excellent staff across all of our businesses 
and my thanks go to them for their very 
significant efforts and achievements and the 
support of our stakeholders.”

Financial highlights

	●  Revenue from continuing operations increased by 7.1% to 

£98.5m (20202: £92m)

	● Gross Margin improved to 30.4% (20202: 26.8 %)

	●  Adjusted1 EBITDA from continuing operations increased by 

78.5% to £12.5m (20202: £7.0m)

	●  Adjusted1 PBT from continuing operations increased to £7.7m 

(20202: £2.6m)

	●  Adjusted1 Diluted earnings per share from continuing 

operations were boosted to 22.4p (20202: (8.0p)

	● Peter Brotherhood sold for an enterprise value of £35.0m

	●  Net Cash excluding IFRS16 £23.3m (Net Debt 31 May 2020: 

£7.4m)

	● Dividend re-instated at 4.0p per share

Operational highlights – Energy

	●  Revenue increased 11.1% to £89.0m (20202 £80.1m)

	● Energy Steel continues to recover positively

	● Award of outline planning permission for HT Luton site

	● Successful disposal of Peter Brotherhood

	●  Enhanced contract to supply the important 3M3 boxes – up by 

£20m to £70m

	● Record order book for Booth

Operational highlights – Medical

	●  Revenue decreased to £9.6m (2020: £11.9m) as pivot away 

from third party component manufacture

	●  Division transformed into a niche MRI market player, following 

acquisition of majority stake in Magnetica 

	●  Potentially significant market opportunities  in orthopaedic and 

veterinary imaging 

1  Adjusted to add back amortisation of intangibles from business combinations, acquisition costs and 
exceptional items 

2 2020 Restated for discontinued Peter Brotherhood

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   4

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   4

30/09/2021   11:57

30/09/2021   11:57

Company Information

For the year ended 31 May 2021

Company registration number: 

01968354

Registered office: 

Directors: 

Website: 

Secretary: 

Bankers: 

Registrars: 

Chatteris Business Park
Chatteris
Cambridgeshire
PE16 6SA

R S McDowell (Non-executive Chairman)
S McQuillan (Chief Executive Officer)
S M King (Chief Financial Officer)
L J Thomas (Non-executive Director)
J S Clarke (Non-executive Director)  

www.avingtrans.plc.uk

Royal Bank of Scotland
2 St Philips Place
Birmingham
B3 2RB

S M King

HSBC Bank plc 
PO Box 68 
130 New Street 
Birmingham 
B2 4JU 

Link Group
10th Floor
Central Square
29 Wellington Street
Leeds
LS1 4DL

Nominated advisor and broker: 

Singer Capital Markets Advisory LLP
1 Bartholomew Lane
London
EC2N 2AX

Solicitors: 

Independent Auditor: 

Shakespeare Martineau LLP
No1 Colmore Square
Birmingham
B4 6AA

Grant Thornton UK LLP
Statutory Auditor
Chartered Accountants
The Colmore Building
20 Colmore Circus
Birmingham
B4 6AT

1

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Index

Chairman’s statement 

Strategic Report 

Report of the directors 

Corporate governance 

Report of the directors on remuneration 

Independent auditor’s report 

Principal accounting policies 

Consolidated income statement and statement  
of comprehensive income 

Consolidated balance sheet 

Company balance sheet 

Page

3

4 – 20

21 – 24

25 – 29

30 – 31

32 – 42

43 – 55

56

57

58

Consolidated statement of changes in equity 

59 – 60 

Company statement of changes in equity 

Consolidated statement of cash flows 

Company statement of cash flows 

Notes to the annual report 

Notice of Annual General Meeting 

61

62

63

64 – 96

97 – 100

2

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Chairman’s Statement

Despite some adverse effects from the Covid-19 pandemic, the Board was pleased with the Group’s performance for the year, 
with record adjusted EBITDA (note 4) from continuing operations and a very solid net cash position at year end, driven by the 
successful disposal of Peter Brotherhood Limited (PB) in March 2021, for an enterprise value of £35m. It is pleasing to note a 
number of important new order wins, both in the year and post-period end, which have bolstered the order book going into FY22.

Crucially,  our  Pinpoint-Invest-Exit  (“PIE”)  strategy  came  to  the  fore  once  again,  not  only  in  the  disposal  of  PB,  but  also  in 
the recovery progress at Booth and Energy Steel and in the acquisition of a majority stake in Magnetica (MNA) in Australia. 
Shareholders will recall that the assets of Booth Industries in Bolton, UK and Energy Steel in Michigan, USA were acquired 
in  June  2019.  Since  then,  both  of  these  turnaround  opportunities  have  made  good  progress,  with  Booth,  in  particular,  now 
contributing strongly to Group results.

The divisional management teams have again demonstrated their agility and resilience in the period, continuing to build strong 
business platforms, despite the disruptions due to Covid-19. These effects caused us to enact certain targeted restructuring and 
other changes, to optimise business performance. Nonetheless, our focus remains on growing strong and valuable businesses. 

Aftermarket growth in Engineered Pumps and Motors (EPM) and Process Solutions and Rotating Equipment (PSRE) remains 
central to developing robust value propositions, in order to support OEM and end-user customers.  The end-user access provides 
a more predictable and repeatable pipeline, drives improved profitability and underpins product and service development.

The EPM division delivered an improved result for the year, despite some on-going Covid-19 disruptions to supply chains and 
order placement. Energy Steel continued to recover positively, with good aftermarket prospects and moved to a smaller, optimal 
facility at the year end. The award of outline planning permission for the Hayward Tyler (“HT”) Luton site was good news, 
providing us with the opportunity to optimise HT’s UK operations, whilst potentially producing a net surplus for the Group when 
the site is exited. However, this process has been delayed by Covid-19.

The PSRE division pushed through the impact of Covid-19 and capped an excellent year with the successful disposal of Peter 
Brotherhood. The division refined its offering to the UK nuclear market – especially to Sellafield for nuclear decommissioning 
- whilst also using this capability to position itself for longer term new nuclear technologies. Post period end, we were delighted 
to confirm the transition of the important 3M3 box contract with Sellafield to the volume production phase and with an enhanced 
contract value, up by £20m to £70m. The integration of Booth has gone better than planned and the business is rapidly returning 
to full heath, with a record order book, including the stellar £36m contract win with HS2. Covid-19 buffeted Ormandy more 
than most in the financial year, but the business still turned out a decent result and we anticipate further improvements this year.

Meanwhile,  the  Medical  and  Industrial  Imaging  (MII)  division  has  metamorphosed  into  a  niche  MRI  player,  following  the 
acquisition of a majority stake in Magnetica and its merger with Scientific Magnetics and Tecmag. This exciting development 
has created a start-up MRI systems manufacturer, with eyes on alluring market prospects in orthopaedic and veterinary imaging, 
for example. The refocused division will continue to produce associated products in nuclear magnetic resonance and scientific 
magnets, in support of the core strategy. These developments are still at a relatively early stage, but the Board is excited about the 
long-term potential of the division, which is expected to yield longer term positive returns for the Group, albeit perhaps using a 
different vehicle to maximise returns than our usual “PIE” process for mature businesses.

Given the excellent overall results for the year, the Board believes that it is now right to reintroduce a full year dividend of 4.0 
pence per share, which includes an element of catch up for the missing interim dividend, suspended due to Covid-19.

As well as the final dividend proposed, we intend to return to our commitment to long term shareholder returns in FY22, with 
both interim and final dividend payments in prospect. Our resilient view of the overall prospects for the Group, underpinned by 
our prudent approach to debt and financial headroom, support this decision. Given the robust balance sheet position, the Group 
continues to seek further shareholder value enhancing M&A opportunities.

Finally, I warmly welcome all the staff at Magnetica to Avingtrans and congratulate them and all Avingtrans employees for the 
dedication and determination that they have displayed in a challenging environment. We also wish our former colleagues at PB 
well, as they continue their success story now as part of Howden. On behalf of the shareholders, I once again thank all Avingtrans 
employees for their commitment to the Group during the past year, as we look forward with eagerness to FY22.

Roger McDowell
Chairman
28 September 2021

3

Strategic Report

Group Performance

Strategy and business summary

Group Strategy

Our  core  strategy  is  to  buy  and  build  engineering  companies  in  niche  markets,  particularly  where  we  see  turnaround  and 
consolidation prospects; a strategy we call Pinpoint-Invest-Exit (“PIE”). We have had a strong track record in returning significant 
shareholder value over the past decade and FY21 was another successful year, with the January 2021 acquisition of a majority 
stake in Magnetica and the disposal of Peter Brotherhood in March 2021.

With an increased presence in our target markets, a focus on aftermarkets, strength in depth of the management teams and a lean 
central structure, the Group continues to grow profitably – despite the effects of Covid-19 – and the Board is focused on seeking 
additions to the Avingtrans value-add proposition. 

The majority of the Group’s adjusted key financial metrics trended positively in the period, particularly in light of Covid-19 and 
the effect of acquiring a start-up business during the year.

The Group is focused on the global Energy and Medical markets, both of which play into some of the world’s mega-trends, such 
as: urbanisation; an ageing population; and an accelerating transition towards a cleaner and healthier planet.

Divisional Strategies

Engineered Pumps and Motors (Energy – EPM): EPM continues to develop its nuclear installed base (civil, defence and 
national security) – notably for life extension applications – and its offering to the hydrocarbon market sectors. Energy Steel 
in North America (acquired in June 2019), which specialises in nuclear life extension, continues to recover well. In addition, 
the EPM business continues to develop solutions for new nuclear technologies and other low carbon energy sources, such as 
concentrated solar, to capitalise on the global energy supply transition. During FY21, EPM delivered a number of key contracts, 
including pumps for next generation nuclear business TerraPower in the USA and pumps for a major new concentrated solar 
power plant in Dubai. Partnership agreements (eg with Ruhrpumpen and Shinhoo) are an important element of the EPM strategy, 
providing us with a broader product portfolio and cross-selling opportunities.

Process  Solutions  and  Rotating  Equipment  (Energy  –  PSRE):  Here,  the  primary  strategy  is  to  develop  a  comprehensive 
offering to the nuclear decommissioning and reprocessing markets, building on the long-term contracts to build nuclear waste 
storage containers and the installed base of equipment across the vast Sellafield site. Post period end, Metalcraft and Sellafield 
Limited entered into the second phase of the contract to provide high integrity stainless steel storage boxes for Sellafield. The 
3M3  (‘three  metre  cubed’)  box  contract  is  now  worth  up  to  £70m,  being  a  £20m  uplift  to  the  original  contract  awarded  in 
2015. During the year, the division’s nuclear credentials were enhanced by the strong recovery of Booth Industries, which also 
broadened our market reach into Critical National Infrastructure (CNI). Amongst others, Booth won a major new multi-year 
contract with HS2 in the period, worth £36m. The PSRE division is witnessing a strong pipeline and remains well poised to bid 
for and capitalise on opportunities as they arise. 

Medical and Industrial Imaging (Medical – MII): Following the Magnetica acquisition in January 2021, the focus for the 
medical division pivoted towards becoming a niche market leader in the production of compact helium-free MRI systems, for 
applications such as orthopaedic and veterinary imaging. This is an exciting opportunity for the Group. In parallel, we have 
moved to exit from volume MRI components supply to customers such as Siemens, preferring to concentrate on our own product 
development. In support of the core strategy, the division will continue to work on niche Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) 
and scientific magnet products and services, since these are complementary technologies. 

The common theme which we are seeking to develop across the energy and medical divisions, is the continued pressure on 
aftermarket expenditure, where operational efficiency, reliability and safety are paramount and operators are looking to their 
supply chain partners to provide long term support of both new infrastructure and legacy installations.

Pinpoint-Invest-Exit

Continuing  our  Pinpoint-Invest-Exit  strategy,  Avingtrans  acquired  a  majority  stake  in  Magnetica  (AUS),  in  January  2021, 
merging this with our other MRI related businesses, Scientific Magnetics (UK) and Tecmag (US). The objective is to create an 
innovative niche MRI systems manufacturer, with the technology to drive new MRI imaging applications and business models. 
To date the integration of the three businesses is on track and making good progress towards commercial product availability.

The integrations of FY20 acquisitions, Booth and Energy Steel, both went well during FY21 and they were each able to deliver 
a profit for the Group, with Booth’s recovery being very robust and ahead of management’s expectations.

During the period, we obtained Outline Planning Permission (OPP) for the redevelopment of our HT Luton site, comprising up 
to 1,000 residential units. Covid-19 has delayed our plans with respect to the site and discussions are ongoing. 

4

Strategic Report (Continued)

Pinpoint-Invest-Exit (continued)

M&A activity in energy capital goods markets has been surprisingly robust despite Covid-19 and businesses like ours continue 
to command high valuations. This was evidenced by the March 2021 disposal of Peter Brotherhood, which was acquired for 
£9m, as part of the Hayward Tyler Group in 2017. The disposal was for £35m enterprise value – almost four times the price paid 
for the business in a four year period. This demonstrates the validity of the PIE model and our approach to business turnaround. 
Consequently, Avingtrans remains confident about the current strategic direction and potential future opportunities across its 
chosen markets.

Markets – Energy

The global demand for energy experienced a hiatus, due to Covid-19, but we believe that we will see a consistent return to growth 
now and the effect of the pandemic may be to drive faster towards increased efficiency and decarbonisation. This trend may 
benefit our businesses in the nuclear and renewables sectors.

End User/Aftermarket

Operators  and  end-users  demand  a  blend  of  quick  response  through  local  support  and  a  requirement  to  drive  improvements 
through equipment upgrades and modernisation. In the West, where facilities are being operated for longer than their intended 
design lives, there is a strong demand for solution providers in the supply chain to partner with end-users for the longer term. The 
Avingtrans energy divisions are well positioned to grow in this end-user market space.

Nuclear

Nuclear energy as a low carbon, baseload power source remains an asymmetric market with respect to future growth. Almost all 
the 1GW+ new build opportunities are currently in Asia, with the exception of the limited UK programme. However, we are still 
experiencing buoyant market segments, including supporting the operational fleet, continued safe operation and life extensions, 
decommissioning and reprocessing. We are also working on the long-term development of the next generation of technologies – 
i.e. Small Modular (SMR), or Advanced Generation IV Reactors – eg with TerraPower. In addition, these segments all have the 
backdrop of a consolidating supply chain and paucity of expert knowledge.

The USA still operates the biggest civil nuclear fleet in the world, with 94 reactors generating around 30 percent of the world’s 
nuclear electricity. Coupled with the heritage Westinghouse technology operating in Europe and Asia, the EPM division’s long-
standing position in this market provides opportunities for further growth.  Obsolescence and life extension are key issues for 
nuclear operators worldwide and the Avingtrans Energy Divisions are well positioned to support operators in addressing this 
critical risk. The acquisition of Energy Steel in the USA in 2019 further bolstered the Group’s capabilities in this regard.

The  UK  remains  pre-eminent  when  it  comes  to  decommissioning  and  reprocessing,  in  terms  of  innovative  technology  and 
overall spend. The Group is embedded in the future manufacture of waste containers for Sellafield and will continue to expand 
its presence in the UK and globally in the longer term. The development of new nuclear technologies is ongoing, with pockets of 
activity in the UK, South Korea, the USA and China dominating development activity. The Group views these new technologies, 
such as an attractive route forward for nuclear and is well positioned to develop as a global industry partner.

Power Generation

The world continues to electrify, with an increasing amount of primary energy going to the power sector, which remains a key 
focus across the Group’s energy divisions. Aside from nuclear, the main sub-sectors are as follows:

•  Coal – the Group continues to see good aftermarket activity from coal fired power stations even though the demand for new 
power stations is in decline.  Opportunities still exist in India, China, South East Asia, Eastern Europe and the Middle East. 
EPM is optimising its product line, to take market share and to create tomorrow’s aftermarket.

•  Gas – natural gas, primarily in the form of combined cycle gas turbine power plants is a growing market space, primarily in 

the West.  The Group is moving into this market with both existing and new product lines.

•  Renewables – renewable technologies and their supporting infrastructure are a growing market globally. The Group has a 
range of products that can be applied directly to this market segment and also has expertise that can be used to develop new 
products for niche parts of this market, such as molten salt for concentrated solar applications.  

Hydrocarbons

The Covid-19 pandemic had a dramatic effect on oil & gas supply and demand, with the Brent crude price collapsing in 2020 and 
now trading in the range of $70 to $75 per barrel, with most informed forecasts suggesting an on-going recovery. As a result, new 
capital expenditure in this sector was materially reduced and has not yet recovered to pre-covid levels. Therefore, our forecasts 
must continue to exhibit prudence,  with some limited restructuring activity in EPM being completed in the first half of FY21 in 
response to the market conditions. However, aftermarket orders continue to be won, so there is some positive news in this area.

5

Strategic Report (Continued)

Markets – Energy (continued)

Digitalisation & Condition Monitoring

Companies across the energy market continue to invest in digital technologies to improve productivity, efficiency and predictability 
in the field.  At the equipment level this translates to a series of devices, sensors and algorithms which can predict breakdowns 
before they occur and ensuring equipment is running at its optimum performance. The Group has continued to develop and refine 
its capabilities in this regard, having launched its first monitoring product, DataHawkTM, three years ago.

Markets – Medical

The  Diagnostic  (medical)  and  molecular  imaging  markets  are  large  global  sectors,  dominated  by  a  few  large  systems 
manufacturers. The total Diagnostic Imaging Market will be worth $33.5bn by 2024, according to Markets and Markets and is 
expected to continue to grow at over 5% per annum over that period. The largest market is the USA, followed by Europe and 
Japan. The fastest growing markets are China and India.

Following the acquisition of a majority stake in Magnetica (AUS) in January 2021, we merged Magnetica with Scientific Magnetics 
(UK) and Tecmag (US). The objective of this pivot is to create an innovative, niche-MRI systems supplier, which can address 
specific parts of the market, not well served by dedicated products at present. This includes orthopaedic and veterinary imaging. 
Although  Magnetica  is  primarily  targeting  the  Magnetic  Resonance  Imaging  (MRI)  market,  Nuclear  Magnetic  Resonance 
(NMR) continues to be of interest, due to the common thread requirements for superconducting magnets and cryogenics. These 
two segments account for approximately 85% of our business in the medical division. Market drivers for these segments include 
an ageing global population and the global pharmaceutical industry’s research needs. 

MRI itself is approximately 18% by value of the total diagnostic Imaging market and is projected to grow at 6% p.a. (Grand View 
Research). NMR is a smaller market, currently estimated at $861m p.a. by Marketwatch and is projected to grow at over 3% p.a. 
until 2026, with Bruker enjoying a dominant market share.

End User/Aftermarket 

The MRI market segment is dominated by a handful of manufacturers, including GE, Siemens, Philips and Canon, who account 
for circa 80% of revenue globally. These players also dominate the aftermarket, though there are a few independent MRI service 
businesses in existence. Avingtrans is not present in the MRI aftermarket at this time.

The NMR market is similar, currently dominated by Bruker and Jeol. Avingtrans is aligned with MR Resources Inc, a well-
established US business, which services the NMR aftermarket. 

MRI

As noted above, the MRI market segment is dominated by a handful of global manufacturers, and we do not intend to compete 
with them. However, following the planned pivot to niche full system supply noted above, Avingtrans has moved in parallel to 
exit component supply and this process has advanced materially in the year. We anticipate a temporary reduction in divisional 
revenues, as component manufacture ends, since there will then be a gap before we launch our own systems. Our first target is 
orthopaedic imaging, where encouraging development of our prototype system is on-going. We currently anticipate commercial 
launch of this product during 2023, subject to regulatory approval in target markets.  

NMR

We are aligned with recent market entrant Q One Instruments, China and also with MR Resources of the USA, as noted above. 
Together, we form an alliance to challenge the dominance of the existing players and to provide customers with an additional 
source for NMR products, service and support.

Operations

Operational Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s)for continuing operations 

•  Percentage of total continuing revenue deriving from aftermarket (AM) sales (%) 
•  Customer quality – defect free deliveries (%) 
•  Customer on-time in-full deliveries (%) 
•  Annualised staff turnover including restructuring (%) 
•  Health, Safety and Environment incidents per head per annum 

2021 

41.4 
98.9 
69.8 
22.0 
0.07 

2020

42.7
98.0
78.1
14.6
0.09

The AM sales % has reduced marginally. This is mainly due to the lack of access to US nuclear plants, caused by Covid-19. 
Covid-19 delays also continued to affect AM order timings – especially at EPM, in the nuclear aftermarket. For customer quality, 
we sustained our usual high level of defect free deliveries, though on time deliveries fell back in the year, again due to Covid-19 

6

 
 
Strategic Report (Continued)

Operations (continued)

induced supply chain disruption Annualised staff turnover increased, due to restructuring at EPM (caused by Covid-19 effects on 
the oil and gas market) and at Metalcraft (driven by our exit from the MRI component manufacturing business). The long-term 
positive reduction of HSE incidents continues, though each new acquisition presents us with fresh HSE challenges.

EPM Division – Energy

For the EPM division, which represents the bulk of the former Hayward Tyler companies, the main priorities remain to strengthen 
the aftermarket capabilities and to maximise opportunities in the nuclear life extension market. 

The division’s results improved in the period, having been disrupted by Covid-19 in the prior year. Whilst some adverse Covid-19 
effects lingered into FY21, the impact was less pronounced than previously, so EPM was able to make headway once more. 

At HT Luton, a targeted, largely voluntary, restructuring programme was implemented early in the period. This was necessary 
because Covid-19 badly disrupted the market for new capex into oil and gas. However, aftermarket activities continue to build, 
including the servicing of third party equipment. The £10m contract in Sweden with Vattenfall for the Forsmark plant (for nuclear 
life extension) made good progress overall and is expected to complete in FY22. Further defence orders have been received 
and are being executed on target. Following the receipt of planning permission to develop the HT Luton site into up to 1,000 
dwellings in the period, plans are underway to move the business to a new, optimised location, although this process was also 
delayed by Covid-19 effects outside of our control.

HT Inc in Vermont (USA) continues to see solid order intake in the nuclear life extension market in the USA - and again with 
KHNP, South Korea, although delays in order intake (due to Covid-19 affecting customer site access) did impact the US results 
again. HT Inc’s new R&D opportunities - in next generation nuclear power and concentrated solar power - are also making good 
progress, with first products shipped to TerraPower in the period. 

HT Kunshan (China) delivered their contract in China (worth £2.2m) in the period for specialist pumps being installed in a major 
new concentrated solar power plant in Dubai. This renewables market sector has several good prospects for follow-on from this 
initial win. 

HT India continued to suffer from order and delivery delays and disruptions due to Covid-19, but the business was still able to 
record a modest profit in the period. 

Energy Steel (‘ES’) in Michigan (USA), continued to progress on its recovery path, chalking up another small profit, in the 
period. Importantly, at the end of the year, ES completed a move to a new smaller facility, thus reducing overheads going forward 
and rightsizing its capacity. The integration of sale with HTI is now complete and the business has started to win new orders from 
previously untapped customers, including orders deriving from a nuclear “orphan” IP acquisition.

PSRE Division – Energy, safety and security

PSRE had another very good year, helped along by the successful disposal of PB for £35m enterprise value in March 2021. The 
results of the continuing businesses were supported by a strong recovery at Booth, which now has a record order book, including 
the HS2 £36m contract awarded in the period. Booth also made progress with its factory extension, though construction was 
delayed materially by Covid-19. The blast and security high integrity doors niche which Booth occupies, is one which we can 
defend vigorously, to rebuild Booth into a leader in its chosen markets, both in the UK and now internationally. 

Metalcraft’s  progress  with  the  Sellafield  3M3  boxes  was  again  steady-  and  our  progress  was  rewarded  (post  period  end)  by 
the confirmation by Sellafield of our transition to phase two of the box contract. The contract value was also boosted to £70m 
(previously £50m) with circa 1000 boxes to be delivered over the next six years. Metalcraft is the only supplier to transition to 
phase two of the contract. The next 3M3 box contract tender has now been even further delayed due to Covid-19 disruptions to 
Sellafield’s plans. This delay is disappointing, but we are now very well placed to pursue this contract later and it does not impact 
on our forecasts, which allow for unexpected customer delays.

Ormandy’s performance was pleasing in the year, since it was more disrupted by Covid-19 than other business units. Nonetheless, 
the HVAC market held up and a strengthened sales team improved results and the business is well-placed for the future.

The Fluid Handling business in Scotland is a consistently good performer and continues to build a wider nuclear capability. In 
the period, this unit won its biggest ever order (£2.5m) for Sellafield, to repair and upgrade remotely monitored valves. Further 
life extension and decommissioning opportunities are being pursued. Post period end, a contract worth £4.4m was secured with 
Doosan, as a prime contractor for Sellafield. This was notable, because it required Fluid Handling, to work with Metalcraft and 
HT Luton, to secure the order.

MII – Medical Division

MII is a division in pro-active transition. We have been pivoted away from the custom business previously targeted by Scientific 
Magnetics  (SM)  and  working  towards  new  products  in  Magnetic  Resonance  Imaging  (MRI),  driven  by  the  acquisition  of  a 
majority stake in Magnetica (MNA) in January 2021. With MNA, SM and Tecmag now all integrating as one business, the focus 
is fully on niche-MRI systems and we are making good progress on this exciting major project. 

7

Strategic Report (Continued)

Operations (continued)

MII – Medical Division (continued)

MNA will continue to work on products for the adjunct Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) market, including service and 
support offerings with our third party partners. 

In parallel with our pivot to MRI systems, Metalcraft’s UK and China business for MRI components was being gradually wound 
down and this process will conclude in FY22. Therefore, the remainder of this operation has recombined with its sister unit in 
PSRE, to simplify reporting there. 

Composite Products had a good year, with increasing deliveries to Rapiscan for package scanning equipment and the development 
of other customers, such as Arrival for electric vehicle composite components. Again, due to the focus on MRI in the medical 
division, it is now a better fit for Composite products to move into the PSRE division.

Financial Performance

Key Performance Indicators

The Group uses a number of financial key performance indicators to monitor the business, as set out below (all items are “from 
continuing operations” after restating for discontinued PB).

Revenue: 7.1% increase – good underlying organic growth

Overall Group continuing revenue increased to £98.5m (2020: £92.0m), driven by organic growth in the EPM and PSRE divisions 
and despite some on-going contract delays caused by Covid-19. 

Profit margin: another significant improvement in results, despite Covid-19 

Adjusted  EBITDA  (note  4)  increased  by  78.5%  to  £12.5m  (2020:  £7.0m).  PSRE  was  boosted  by  strong  results  across  the 
division and a robust return to profit at Booth. The profit margins in the EPM division also continued to improve, following some 
restructuring caused by the Covid-19 impact on oil and gas markets.

Operating profit was £6.1m (2020: profit £0.6m), in line with the EBITDA improvement seen above.

Gross margin: strong progress, with Booth now contributing positively

Group gross margin improved to 30.4% (2020: 26.8%) due to the improving gross margin mix from the former HTG business 
units and the recovery at Booth, as our transformation programme continues to bear fruit.

Tax: future profits and cash protected by available losses

The effective rate of taxation at Group level was a 7.0% tax charge. A tax refund (note 9) due in the US kept the charge lower than 
expected and the use of brought forward losses in the UK. The tax position will be aided further in the coming years by utilisation 
of losses in the UK and China. We continue to be cautious, not recognising all of the potential trading tax losses in the UK.

Adjusted diluted Earnings per Share (EPS): a 181% improvement

Adjusted  diluted  earnings  per  share  from  continuing  operations  (note  11)  was  boosted  to  22.4p  (2020:  8.0p)  reflecting  the 
underlying growth in results and PB being restated as a discontinued operation. Including 73.9p from the disposal of PB and 
discontinued operations resulted in Adjusted diluted earnings per share attributable to Shareholders of 96.2p (2020: 16.2p).

Basic and diluted earnings per share attributable to Shareholders increased to 85.4p (2020: 4.4p) and to 83.6p (2020: 4.3p).

Funding and Liquidity: substantial net cash position, following Peter Brotherhood disposal

Net cash (including IFRS16 debt) at 31 May 2021 was £20.3m excluding IFRS16 debt, net cash was £23.3m (31 May 2020: net 
debt: £16.4m excluding IFRS16 debt at 31 May 2020 was £7.4m). The cash flows generated from the strong underlying profits 
were partly absorbed by a £2.2m working capital outflow, partly due to the envisaged further working capital outflow for the ES 
and Booth acquisitions, the timing of various contracts and a lower level of advance payments, resulting in an operating cash 
inflow of £6.4m for the year (2020 outflow £0.1m). In addition the cash inflow£26.6m (net of disposal costs) generated on the 
disposal of PB meant the Group moved into a substantial net cash position. The Directors consider that the Group has sufficient 
financial resources to deliver strategy, so the Group is actively looking for further value enhancing opportunities.

8

Strategic Report (Continued)

Dividend: full year progressive dividend reinstated

The Board believes that it is now appropriate to reinstate the full year dividend and proposes a dividend of 4.0p per share (2020: 
Nil p – suspended due to Covid-19). We return to our commitment to long term shareholder returns via dividends from this year 
and we also intend to reinstate progressive interim and final dividends for FY22. The dividend will be paid on 10 December 2021 
to shareholders on the register at 29 October 2021.

Principal risks and uncertainties facing the Group

Managing Risk

The Group is exposed to risks and uncertainties that could have a material impact on its performance and financial position. 
Identifying,  assessing  and  managing  risk  is  the  responsibility  of  the  Board.  Our  approach  to  risk  is  intended  to  protect  the 
interests of our shareholders and other stakeholders whilst allowing the business to develop. Our risk appetite depends on the 
nature of an individual risk, and it is considered in Board discussions and also as part of our risk review process in the Audit 
Committee. From time to time, we obtain advice from third party experts in a cost effective manner, to complement in-house 
knowledge.

The long-term success of the Group relies, in part, on managing the risks to our business. Whilst the Group has risk management 
policies and practices in place, which address and monitor risk, we seek to improve those practices each year. The Chief Financial 
Officer is responsible for risk management on behalf of the Board and the Audit Committee and he reviews the risk register on a 
regular basis. Ultimately our aim is to ensure that risk management is embedded within the core processes of our business units.  

Risk Management Process

The Group uses a risk register to help coordinate its risk management process. The risk register identifies the key business risks 
and documents the policies and practices in place to mitigate those risks. 

Principal Risks

We classify the risks to the business into three groups, namely, strategic risk, operational risk and financial risk. The principal 
risks identified by the Directors under these groups are set out in the table below. The risks considered during the Group-wide 
risk management process cover a wider range of issues than the key risks that are listed in this table.

Risk

Potential Impact

Mitigation

Strategic Risk

A. Covid-19 
effects across 
the global 
economy and 
businesses

The  ongoing  risks  faced  by  the 
Group due to Covid-19 are possible 
delays  in  the  ability  to  ship  work 
when complete, delays in the supply 
chain,  and  delays  in  the  ability  to 
visit  customer  sites  to  complete 
work, delays in customer’s decision 
making on projects. 

enhance 

The  ongoing 
reoccurrence  of 
restricted  activity  could  compound 
and 
principal 
risks,  not  least  general  economic 
conditions, delays in client decision 
making or additional costs resulting 
from delay. 

other 

As  part  of  its  processes  the  directors  conduct  a  series  of 
sensitivity  analyses  to  a  range  of  scenarios  arising  from  the 
effects  of  Covid-19  on  the  business,  its  staff,  customers  and 
other stakeholders.

A number of responses and mitigation actions continue to be 
taken by the Group including focussed customer relationship 
management, continual sales and operational planning, supply 
chain  management,  process  and  capacity  mapping,  resource 
and staffing risk review, updated review of health and safety in 
the working environment and focused cash management. 

This forms part of the group’s routine processes alongside the 
Going Concern assessment set out in the Director’s Reports.

9

Strategic Report (Continued)

Principal risks and uncertainties facing the Group (continued)

Risk

Potential Impact

Mitigation

Strategic Risk

B. Growth 
Strategy 

is  growth 

A  fundamental  part  of  the  Group’s 
strategy 
from  both 
Original Equipment and Aftermarket 
sales.  The  growth  is  reliant  on  our 
markets. These markets demonstrate 
long-term growth but remain highly 
competitive and can be cyclic.

Failure  to  generate  sufficient  order 
intake  and  revenue  to  cover  the 
fixed  cost  base  could  give  rise  to 
lower profit and cash generation that 
constrains the Group.

to 

keep-up 

Failure 
with 
technological change could give rise 
to  the  Group’s  products,  services 
and 
less 
technologies  becoming 
competitive.

C. PIE Strategy 
mergers, 
acquisitions 
and disposals

The  Group  makes 
regular 
acquisitions  and  disposals  under 
its  PIE  strategy.  In  January  2021, 
it  merged  its  assets  with  that  of  
Magnetica,  holding  a  residual  58% 
of  the  larger  sub  group.  During 
the  period,  we  disposed  of  Peter 
Brotherhood Limited.

Failure  to  re-establish  and  rebuild 
these businesses could (1) absorb a 
disproportionate part of management 
resource at the expense of other parts 
of the Group (2) reduce the Group’s 
profitability and (3) delay the cycle 
of  the  planned  positive  outcome  of 
the PIE strategy.

D. Execution

services  highly 

The  Group  designs,  manufactures 
and 
technical 
products that are mission critical to 
the end user. 

to 

satisfy 

contractual 
Failure 
to 
rise 
obligations  could  give 
significant 
losses  (e.g.  warranty 
claims,  liquidated  damages,  etc), 
cash  constraints,  lost  future  orders 
and  adverse  impact  on  the  Group’s 
reputation. 

The Group provides niche engineering solutions for the global 
energy and medical sectors. It has an excellent market profile 
(quality, reliability and customer relationships), which results 
in inclusion on sector bid/quote opportunities.

The  Group  has  invested,  and  is  investing,  in  key  aspects  to 
maintain  and  improve  the  Group’s  competitive  position 
including: 

■   employees (see F below);
■   supply chain (see G below);
■   developing and maintaining strong relationships with key  

 customers;

■   capital expenditure on plant and equipment; 
■   research and development of products and processes and
■   aftermarket initiatives including supporting end-of-life  

 extension programmes.

The Group carefully plans acquisition actions to mitigate this 
risk:

■   extensive pre-deal due diligence;
■   achieving a balance between attractive purchase prices and  

 business purchase agreement terms and conditions;

■   post-acquisition integration planning
■   rapid business restructuring as required
■   appropriate funding of the acquisitions and on-going  
 businesses followed by de-leveraging the business;

■   establishing senior management teams, complemented by  
 experienced executives from Avingtrans and externally, if  
 required;

■   development of incoming employees;
■   focusing on marketing and sales including growing  

 aftermarket businesses; and

■   investing in the businesses as necessary for a successful  

 outcome to the PIE strategy.

The  Group  continues  to  invest  consistently  in  its  people, 
processes and products to maintain and improve lead times and 
product  innovation.  These  steps  include:  enhanced  customer 
relationship  management,  sales  and  operational  planning, 
process  flow  mapping,  research  and  development,  product 
standardisation and enhancing process capability.

The Group also seeks to minimise the impact of execution risk 
through its terms of trade such as (1) limiting the undertakings it 
gives to pay liquidated damages and (2) avoiding consequential 
damages altogether.

10

Strategic Report (Continued)

Principal risks and uncertainties facing the Group (continued)

Risk

Potential Impact

Mitigation

Strategic Risk

E. Global 
Economic 
Activity and 
political 
uncertainties 
including 
Brexit

F. Employees

Operational Risk

G. Supply 
Chain

The Group operates in global energy, 
industrial,  defence, 
infrastructure 
and medical markets. A slowdown in 
those markets including the possible 
impact from on-going economic and 
political  uncertainty  may  adversely 
impact order intake, liquidity needs, 
and terms of trade and the financial 
performance of the Group.

Political  uncertainty  such  as  the 
impact of Brexit and other overseas 
trade issues – eg US trade tariffs can 
affect decisions by our customers to 
invest  and  therefore  impact  on  our 
trading.

Attracting  and  retaining  talented 
people is a Group priority to ensure 
our  continued  success.  The  Group 
has  numerous  skilled  and  highly 
trained  and  qualified  employees 
who demonstrate their commitment 
to the Group through the continuous 
improvement  of  our  products, 
processes  and  procedures  which 
impacts on the Group’s performance.

Failure  to  attract  the  right  talent, 
could  inhibit  the  rate  of  product 
and process development as well as 
impact on the Group’s performance.

The  Group  is  reliant  on  its  supply 
chain  as  part  of  its  aim  to  improve 
throughout  and  optimise  stock-
holding.

Failure  of  that  supply  chain  can 
result  in  operational  disruption  and 
delays  to  shipments  to  customers, 
leading to potential loss of profit and 
damage to customer relationships.

The Group has a diversified geographical and sector spread that 
reduces the impact of localised economic trends and activities. 
In addition, the Group is investing in research and development, 
to develop new products or adapt existing products for use in 
other applications in order to broaden its product offering, to 
reduce the risk. Increasing aftermarket activities also provide 
the  Group  with  a  partial  cushion  to  defend  against  cyclical 
downturns in original equipment purchasing.

We  continue  to  review  and  assess  the  potential  impacts  of 
US  and  Chinese  tariffs  and  Brexit  clarifications,  as  more 
information becomes available and we are engaged with trade 
associations,  which  are  in  contact  with  government  and  can 
thus assist our decision making and action plans.

The Group has been able to continue to trade with EU member 
states and takes guidance on any new trading regulations. The 
Group also operates in countries which are outside of the EU 
which helps to lessen the impact of disruption caused.

Recruitment and retention of employees is a key focus for the 
Group to ensure its continued success. 

Group mitigating actions include:

■   continuing the significant investment in training and  

development; 

■   personal development reviews; 
■   succession planning;
■   promotion from within where possible 
■   outreach to Universities, Colleges and Local Schools; 
■   monitoring pay and benchmarking; 
■   maintaining the successful graduate and apprentice  

programmes; 

■   improving overall employee engagement; and
■   utilisation of external and Group resource to offset any  

temporary gaps in key personnel.

Each division has its own sourcing policy. Where appropriate 
and  efficient,  divisions  cooperate  on  sourcing.  Mitigating 
actions include:

■   sourcing strategies to avoid single point dependence for  

 any key commodity and standardisation to support possible  
 stock holdings;

■   identifying in-house capability (intra and inter-divisionally)  

 and focused investment in related capital expenditure; 
■   exception reporting, operational planning and review  

 processes support the early identification of risks;

■   monitoring of supplier performance;
■   an optimum number of suppliers with strategic, long-term  

 partnerships on key components;

■   strengthening of supply chain teams; and
■   supply chain benchmarking and development.

11

Strategic Report (Continued)

Principal risks and uncertainties facing the Group (continued)

Risk

Potential Impact

Mitigation

Financial Risk

H. Funding

The Group is dependent on its ability 
to  service  its  debts  and  refinance 
existing  borrowings  when 
they 
fall due as well as to fund working 
capital,  capital  expenditure,  and 
research and development. 

If the Group fails to generate profits 
and  cash  it  could  face  funding 
constraints that impact the business 
cycle.

I. Working
Capital

As a fundamental part of the Group’s 
strategy  is  growth  the  Group  is 
exposed  to  a  potential  increase  in 
its  working  capital  requirement 
that absorbs cash. If the Group fails 
to  keep  this  increase  under  control 
it  could  face  cash  constraints  that 
impact the business cycle.

J. Currency 

The  Group  operates  and  sells  in 
overseas  markets  that  may  utilise 
currencies other than those in which 
its principal costs are denominated. 
The  exposure  to  foreign  exchange 
rate  fluctuations  may,  as  a  result, 
affect  the  Group’s  cash  flow.  The 
principal risk at present is US Dollar 
income.

The Group manages its capital to continue as a going concern 
and  maintain  its  liquidity. The  Group  continually  reforecasts 
its borrowing requirements, which include:

■   a 13-week cash flow forecast produced each month; and

■   a 12-month rolling profit and loss, balance sheet and cash  

 flow forecast each quarter to ensure that funding is  
 available to support its operations and its compliance with  
 borrowing covenants. 

The  Group  maintains  committed  UK  and  US  bank  credit 
facilities, augmented by specific funding to support investment 
globally  and  a  bonding  facility.  In  addition,  the  Group 
maintains an active bank relationship programme and contacts 
with UK Export Finance, to safeguard its funding ability.

The Group is seeking to mitigate this risk through the following 
means:

■   standard terms and conditions of manufacturing contracts  
 require customers to make stage payments to fund working  
 capital on the contract. Where stage payments cannot  
 be achieved by the Group, it may be possible to augment  
 borrowing and bonding lines through use of the short-term  
 funding schemes – eg via UK Export Finance;

■   an on-going initiative to optimise stock;
■   minimising lead times, to reduce working capital  

 requirements per unit of revenue;

■   active management of accounts receivable and accounts  

 payable; and

■   linking employee remuneration to cash.

The Group’s policy is to hedge its transaction exposures (i.e. 
cash  flows)  where  a  significant  commitment  has  been  made 
and a level of cover for non-contracted flows in the 12 to 24 
month  period. As  at  date  of  signing,  89%  of  estimated  USD 
net  inflows  into  the  UK  over  the  following  12  months  were 
hedged.

Currency hedging lines are available from two providers. 

12

Strategic Report (Continued)

Principal risks and uncertainties facing the Group (continued)

Risk

Potential Impact

Mitigation

Financial Risk

K.  Pension 
Scheme

The  Group  maintains  a  defined 
benefit  pension  scheme  related  to 
the Hayward Tyler businesses.

The  Group  could  be  required  to 
increase  its  contributions  to  cover 
funding  shortfalls  caused  by  poor 
investment  performance  of  scheme 
assets, a deterioration in the discount 
rate  or  inflation  rate  applied  and 
life  expectancy  of 
in 
changes 
members of the scheme.

L. Customer 
Credit 
Exposure

The group may offer credit terms to 
its customers which allow payment 
of  the  debt  after  delivery  of  the 
goods  or  services.  The  group  is  at 
risk  to  the  extent  that  a  customer 
may be unable to pay the debt on the 
specified due date. 

The  scheme  is  closed  to  new  members  and  to  future  benefit 
improvements. The performance of the investment advisers is 
monitored closely by the Company and pension trustees and 
action  taken  where  that  is  not  satisfactory.  The  assumptions 
used  to  determine  the  pension  deficit/surplus  are  based  on 
recommendations of the actuary to the scheme, benchmarked 
against  market  norms  by  an  expert  3rd  party.  The  Directors 
discuss  the  pension  scheme  regularly  and  there  is  frequent 
contact with the pension fund trustees.

The  aim  is  to  strengthen  the  financial  position  of  the 
Group,  through  its  underlying  performance,  which  assures 
stakeholders and helps to maintain or reduce contributions to 
cover any eventual funding shortfall.

The  plan  trustees  have  selected  a  liability  driven  investment 
strategy  aimed  at  reducing  interest  and  inflation  rate  risks 
and providing a return that matches or exceeds the growth in 
projected pension plan liabilities. 

This  risk  is  mitigated  by  the  strong  on-going  customer 
relationships. See note 24 for more detail.

People

There were no changes at Board level in the period. Top level divisional management teams were largely unchanged.

The management teams in each of the three divisions continue to be strengthened, with a number of key appointments being 
made in the year. The recruitment emphasis remains on the importance of the aftermarket opportunities. Skills availability is 
always a challenge, more so after Brexit and the effects of Covid-19. However, we do not expect to be unduly constrained by 
shortages, given the global economic situation. The Group continues to invest significant effort in developing skills in-house, 
through structured apprenticeship programmes and graduate development plans. 

Our workforce is becoming ever more integrated and this provides additional capability, capacity and innovative thinking, to 
support our global blue-chip customer base.

Section 172 statement

Background The Board of Avingtrans has put in place appropriate measures to enable it to understand and comply with its shared 
and individual responsibilities under Section 172 of the Companies Act 2016. Each director understands their obligation to act 
in a way they consider is in good faith and would be most likely to promote the success of the Company for the benefit of its 
members as a whole. In making decisions on behalf of the Company, Board members carefully consider:

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

the likely consequences of any decision in the long term;
the interests of the Company’s employees;
the need to proactively foster the Company’s business relationships with suppliers, customers and others;
the impact of the Company’s operations on local communities and the environment;
the desirability of the Company maintaining a reputation for high standards of business conduct; and
the need to act fairly between members and stakeholders of the Company. 

13

Strategic Report (Continued)

Section 172 statement (continued)

Appropriate decision making 

The Board is given regular information concerning the Company’s and Group’s performance ahead of each Board meeting, along 
with projections for the future – to assist in the overall planning process - and presentations from business units. Decisions regarding 
the business (including strategy, market position, investment opportunities, M&A activity, senior management appointments etc.) 
are fully considered and discussed openly between board members, taking account of each of the considerations listed above.

The Board seeks to understand the views and needs of the Group’s key stakeholders, to ensure that consideration for all our 
stakeholder groups is taken account of when decisions are made and to address their long-term needs and concerns. Where there 
may be competing priorities, the Board considers the commercial, human and broader business impacts against the longer-term 
sustainability of the business.

The  balance  and  experience  of  the  Board  to  make  appropriate  decisions  is  regularly  reviewed,  as  set  out  in  the  Corporate 
Governance Report, specifically principles five and six. 

Stakeholders

Avingtrans has identified its main Stakeholders as being its:

• 
• 
• 
• 

shareholders; 
customers and suppliers;
employees; and
the wider communities we operate within

Engaging with our stakeholders strengthens our relationships and helps us to make better business decisions and deliver on our 
commitments. The Board is regularly updated on feedback from wider stakeholder engagement, to stay abreast of the issues 
that matter most to them and our business, and to enable the board to understand and consider these issues in any decisions 
made. Details can be found in the Corporate Governance Report, specifically principles two and three regarding stakeholder 
engagement. 

Key decisions made during the period 

During  FY21,  several  decisions  were  made  about  the  strategy,  structure  and  future  of  the  business.  Examples  of  these  key 
decisions relate to:

•  Disposal of Peter Brotherhood
•  Acquisition of Magnetica
•  Development of a training school at Stainless Metalcraft
•  Group restructuring
•  Appointment of VOX Markets

Disposal of Peter Brotherhood 

The Board’s established core Pinpoint-Invest-Exit (“PIE”) strategy, to buy and build engineering companies in niche markets, 
seeks to promote long-term value. 

As part of this Strategy, it is acknowledged that after a suitable period of turnaround and improvement activity, that it could 
be  appropriate  to  move  businesses  on  to  a  more  focused  parent,  enabling  the  Group  to  further  develop  opportunities  for  its 
Stakeholders.

Following an approach for Peter Brotherhood (PB), the Board considered the impacts of a disposal on key customers and ongoing 
contracts, employees and the Group’s wider business direction. This culminated in agreement of the disposal to Howden, who 
are specialists in the Steam Turbine and compressor market with wider market penetration and an ability to take PB to the next 
stage of its development. 

This enabled the Board to strengthen the balance sheet in a period of global instability and to provide funds to further the PIE 
strategy, by turning around and improving underperforming businesses, to the benefit of all stakeholders concerned. 

Acquisition of Magnetica

In order to accelerate the development of the Medical division and its compact helium-free MRI technology, the Board considered 
the merger with Australian based Magnetica. Both businesses operated in the market with complementary technology, such that 
the combined business could manufacture complete MRI scanners, with the added advantage of being 100% helium free, thus 
eliminating the consumption of a scarce and non-renewable commodity.

During the acquisition process, representatives from both companies worked closely together to look at stakeholder management 
across both businesses – putting in place internal and external day one and ongoing communications plans, considering integration 
scope and timing, and working together to ensure a shared approach to the transition. Key customers, employee factors, and 
service delivery were managed carefully, to ensure impacts were minimised. This merger could drive the development of lower 
cost, helium-free, high integrity MRI technology ensuring clinical interoperability for imaging extremities. Using helium-free 

14

Strategic Report (Continued)

Section 172 statement (continued)

technology should facilitate an expansion in potential to locate systems in more local facilities, by eliminating infrastructure 
costs. This could allow repurposing of whole-body scanners to more appropriate imaging tasks and through targeted use of AI, 
free-up radiologists’ time and capacity. 

Development the training school at Stainless Metalcraft 

During  the  year  the  Board  considered  the  further  development  of  the  Stainless  Metalcraft  training  school.  Through  its 
apprenticeship programme it has provided training for local people for more than 100 years, with half its senior management 
team beginning their own careers as apprentices. Metalcraft has been recognised with the Queen’s Award for Enterprise, for 
Creating Opportunity through Social Mobility.

The training school is part of a longer-term ambition to create an advanced manufacturing innovation launchpad in Chatteris 
and is aligned with the aim of the Combined Authority’s Local Industrial Strategy, to promote growth in the sector and to create 
valuable employment opportunities.

The key to “levelling-up”, is skills and the Board is committed to supporting the creation of rewarding, long-term careers in the 
local area, with the new training school playing a key part in realising that vision – not only for Metalcraft, but also by creating 
training capacity for other employers in the region.

Restructuring 

Due  to  the  CV-19  pandemic  and  revisions  to  the  UK’s  Energy  Policy  on  the  use  of  hydrocarbons,  the  Board  considered 
restructuring, in particular in the EPM division, which has the highest level of exposure this Market.

The Board carefully considered the impact of this restructuring on its stakeholders and particularly its employees in EPM and 
across the Group. Once determined that swift action was required in the best interest of all Stakeholders, the Board ensured that 
appropriate communications plans and other measures were put in place, to enable the successful completion of the restructuring 
on a timely basis and with appropriate consideration for employees who left the Group in the process. 

Appointment of Vox Markets

The  Board  maintains  an  active  dialogue  with  both  its  institutional  and  private  investors  and  stakeholders  as  set  out  in  the 
Corporate Governance Report principle ten.

Following market feedback, the Board considered how it could improve communications with smaller shareholders. It decided 
that Vox Markets, through appropriate communications e-channels, would be able to facilitate wider and more regular briefings, 
especially for retail investors.

Section 172 Summary 

Overall, the Board consider that the Company’s approach to compliance with Section 172 is appropriate for an organisation of 
our size and the breadth and nature of stakeholders we have.

Where significant decisions are made, a key element of the decision-making process is how each of the key stakeholders may be 
impacted. The Board ensures that the needs of shareholders are balanced with those of our customers and suppliers, and those of 
our employees, by carefully considering the impact (positive and negative) of such decisions.

Alongside a healthy approach to risk management, our policies and ways of working are intended to drive an appropriate balance 
of risk and reward across the business. Combining our Core Values and Code of Conduct into our decision-making, we can drive 
a Company/Group culture, which aligns to the key requirements of S172, delivering benefit to all Stakeholders.

Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report

Avingtrans believe that operating in a safe, ethical and responsible manner is at the heart of creating sustainable value for all our 
stakeholders.

Our goal is to embed sustainability into our pinpoint-invest-exit business strategy. In 2021, we have reassessed our approach to 
sustainability with a view of integrating a sustainability strategy within our core business activities, aligning ourselves with the 
UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The SDGs set out the UN agenda for people, planet and prosperity, aim to achieve a prosperous, inclusive and sustainable society 
for all by 2030. 

The  SDGs  provide  all  businesses  with  a  new  lens  through  which  to  translate  the  world’s  needs  and  ambitions  into  business 
solutions. These solutions will enable companies to better manage their risks, anticipate consumer demand, build positions in 
growth markets, secure access to resources, and strengthen their supply chains, while moving the world towards a sustainable 
and inclusive development path.

15

Strategic Report (Continued)

Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report (continued)

We have reviewed the SDGs alongside our operations and consider the following to be our priorities:

•  Health, safety, and wellbeing
•  Operational eco-efficiency
•  Development of new technologies

Environmental

The Group’s environmental policy is to ensure that we understand and effectively manage the actual and potential environmental 
impact of our activities. Our operations are conducted such that we comply with all legal requirements relating to the environment 
in all areas where we carry out our business. 

During the period covered by this report, the Group has not incurred any significant fines or penalties, nor been investigated for 
any significant breach of Environmental regulations.

Statement of carbon emissions – compliance with Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR)

This is our first year of carbon reporting emissions under the SECR regime. The group have elected to voluntarily disclose the 
carbon reporting emissions under the SECR regime to provide stakeholders with a clear understanding of the group’s position 
with regards to carbon emissions. In the year we have captured energy use across our UK sites and it is our intention to include 
all remaining (overseas) entities in our next annual report.

The Avingtrans business model is Pinpoint, Invest, Exit with most businesses sold within a three to five year time frame. As a 
result of our business model we expect to see significant fluctuation in energy use each year. 

The methodology for this assessment has used the 2020 and 2021 emission conversion factors published by Department for 
Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy. The assessment follows 
the location-based approach for assessing emissions from electricity usage and has used the UK electricity emissions factors (for 
generation and transmission and distribution). 

The data in the tables below is drawn from our 7 locations in the UK. Carbon reporting is aligned to our financial statements, 
consequently we have excluded the results from our discontinued operations.

The following highlights Avingtrans’ emissions and intensity ratios:

Scope 1: 
Gas 
Oil 
Distribution  
Company car travel 

Scope 2 – Purchased electricity 

Total emissions tCO2e 

Total energy consumption kWh 

Intensity metrics: 
Employees – UK sites 
Emissions tCO2e per employee 
Revenue (£m) – UK sites 
Emissions tCO2e £m of revenue 

2021

           714 
           471 
           103 
               3 

        1,291 
1,119

2,410

11,270,821

423
5.7
60.0
40.2

Given the disruption to the operations in the year resulting from the covid-19 pandemic (and this being the first year of reliable 
data capture) we have not set Group goals at this point. A number of our sites that hold the ISO 14001 environmental standard 
are already working towards achieving their site-specific goals. 

16

 
 
 
 
Strategic Report (Continued)

Environmental (continued)

Operational eco-efficiency

Operational  eco-efficiency  plays  a  key  role  in  our  business.  It  supports  our  plan  to  maximise  profitability,  strengthen  our 
competitive position, and provide customers with the highest quality of services. Our efforts to reduce energy use and prevent 
pollution also support our commitment to our employees, the environment, and the communities in which we are a part.

ISO 14001 Environment Management Systems

During  the  year  Hayward  Tyler  China  achieved  the  ISO14001  Environmental  Management  Systems  accreditation,  bringing 
the total number of our sites with this accreditation to 6. This accreditation ensures that our businesses are focused on their 
environmental impact, supported by effective management processes.

LED lighting systems

A significant proportion of our sites’ energy consumption is spent on lighting. We have been installing energy efficient LED 
lighting systems across several of our sites. As well as improved lighting efficiency, brighter lights improve employee safety, and 
provide improved monitoring. At our latest installation, we expect the new lighting to give 50% efficiency improvements on the 
previous lighting, plus we expect further improvements to be derived from the smart monitoring systems.

On-site power generation

On site power generation can significantly reduce the environmental impact compared to purchasing power from the grid. 

At Peter Brotherhood, we installed a Combined Heat & Power unit. The system burns natural gas to produce electricity and the 
excess heat is used to warm the building and can be converted and used for air conditioning. Excess electricity is sold back to the 
grid. Following the disposal of PB, we are considering whether this option is appropriate for other sites.

The significant footprint on some of our sites provides a good opportunity for solar power.  Our Luton business has already 
installed a solar array to generate on site power there.

Development of new technologies

Next generation nuclear power: Small Modular Reactors (“SMRs”)

SMRs are advanced power plants that can be largely built in factories as modules to minimise costly on-site construction, and 
which allow manufacturers to reduce costs by producing many identical units. More than 70 designs of small modular reactor 
are in development in 18 countries around the world, mostly based on Gen III+ reactor technologies which are relatively close 
to commercial readiness.

The  UK  arm  of  our  Hayward Tyler  business  is  collaborating  with  the  Nuclear Advanced  Manufacturing  Research  Centre  to 
develop a new reactor coolant pumps (RCP) for small modular reactors (SMRs) and help the UK supply chain prepare to produce 
critical components for the global SMR market.

Next generation nuclear power: Molten Chloride Fast Reactor (“MCFR”)

Our US Hayward Tyler business has developed high-temperature molten salt pumps destined for a state-of-the-art Integrated 
Effects Test (IET) facility, under development by Southern Company and TerraPower to advance development of the Molten 
Chloride  Fast  Reactor  (MCFR).  This  is  a  transformational,  fourth-generation,  molten  salt  nuclear  technology,  designed  to 
enable low-cost, economywide decarbonization. Located at TerraPower’s Everett, Washington facility, the IET is a non-nuclear, 
externally heated multi-loop system intended to test and validate integrated operation of MCFR systems as well as demonstrate 
multiple auxiliary MCFR functions.

17

     
Strategic Report (Continued)

Environmental (continued)

From fission to fusion

The  giant  fusion  reactor,  currently  under  construction  in  France  (ITER)  will  be  used  as  a  global  demonstrator  of  fusion 
technologies, in the lead up to eventual full-scale fusion power plants. Like nuclear fission, fusion is free of carbon emissions 
(except for construction), but also has the benefit of a much smaller and less hazardous waste stream. Hayward Tyler in the USA 
is working with the US government, to design and produce specialist pumps for ITER, as part of the US contribution to the 
project.  

Nuclear waste remediation: Sellafield 3m3 boxes

The extension of Metalcraft’s 3m3 box contract with Sellafield marks a transition to volume production of these containers. The 
boxes will be used to store intermediate level waste (“ILW”) retrieved from silos at legacy locations in Cumbria. In environmental 
terms, this storage project represents one of the most positive and important intergenerational equity deliverables of the next few 
decades, developing and implementing critical technology to bequeath a pristine environment to posterity.

As part of this transition, Metalcraft will be producing circa 1,000 boxes over phase two of the programme, which is currently 
expected to take 6 years. Since 2015, Metalcraft has invested to create the only dedicated facility to supply boxes for ILW in the 
UK. As a result, Metalcraft believes it is in a leading position to tender for future decommissioning contracts at Sellafield over 
the duration the site decommissioning.

Renewables: Concentrated Solar Power (CSP)

Hayward  Tyler  in  China  supplied  a  glandless  pump  package  to  a  major  Chinese  EPC,  Shanghai  Electric  Corporation,  for 
installation at Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park Phase IV. This is a 950MW Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) and Photovoltaic 
(PV) hybrid power plant. The project makes use of three different technologies to generate clean energy, consisting of 600MW 
from a parabolic basin complex, 100MW from a solar tower, and 250MW from PV panels.

It is the world’s largest project using Concentrated Solar Power on a single location. The Dubai solar park is an important project 
supporting the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy, which aims to increase Dubai’s use of clean energy to 75% of their total energy 
mix by 2050.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Going helium-free

Existing MRI systems rely on liquid helium, to cool the superconducting magnets at the heart of each system. Helium is a scarce, 
non-renewable resource, mostly obtained as a by-product of oil extraction. Therefore, in our new compact MRI designs, we are 
seeking to take advantage of the smaller system footprint, to enable us to rely on mechanical cooling only, thus eliminating use 
of helium entirely in these systems.  

Social

Social Responsibility 

It is paramount that the Group maintains the highest ethical and professional standards across all of its activities and that social 
responsibility should be embedded in operations and decision making. We understand the importance of managing the impact 
that the business can have on employees, customers, suppliers and other stakeholders. The impact is regularly reviewed to sustain 
improvements, which in turn support the long-term performance of the business. Our focus is to embed the management of these 
areas into our business operations, both managing risk and delivering opportunities that can have a positive influence on our 
business.

Employees

The Group places considerable value on the involvement of its employees and has continued to keep them informed on matters 
affecting  them  directly  and  on  financial  and  broader  economic  factors  affecting  the  Group. The  Group  regularly  reviews  its 
employment policies. The Group is committed to a global policy of equality, providing a working environment that maintains 
a culture of respect and reflects the diversity of our employees. We are committed to offering equal opportunities to all people 
regardless  of  their  gender,  nationality,  ethnicity,  language,  age,  status,  sexual  orientation,  religion  or  disability.  We  believe 
that employees should be able to work safely in a healthy workplace, without fear of any form of discrimination, bullying or 
harassment. We have been rolling-out a “dignity and respect” training program across the Group. We believe that the Group 
should demonstrate a fair gender mix across all levels of our business, whilst recognising that the demographics of precision 
engineering and manufacturing remain predominantly male, which is, to an extent, beyond our control.

18

Strategic Report (Continued)

Social (continued)

Apprenticeships and training

All larger group locations are running apprenticeship schemes for young people, both to act as socially responsible employers 
and  to  optimise  the  demographics  of  our  workforce  over  the  mid  to  long  term.  The  most  developed  of  these  schemes  is  at 
Metalcraft in Chatteris, UK, where the scheme there is very well established and has won multiple national awards over the past 
several years. This scheme is now being taken to another level (post-period end) with Metalcraft being given planning permission 
to construct a new training school on the Chatteris site, with construction work now underway.

The centre will be funded through a £3.16million grant from the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority and 
will provide training across a range of vocational subjects for between 80 and 130 apprentices per year, for the entire local area.  

Health, safety, and wellbeing

The Group takes H&S matters and its related responsibilities very seriously.

As  regular  acquirers  of  businesses,  we  find  different  levels  of  capability  and  knowledge  in  different  situations.  Often,  a  key 
investment need in smaller acquisitions is to spread H&S best practice from other Group businesses and bring local processes 
up to required standards. Larger acquisitions such as HTG previously) usually have well developed H&S processes and we seek 
to learn from these in other business units.

Employee equality, welfare and engagement are critical for developing our key asset. We focus on pro-active actions including 
internal training, certifications, and employee engagement through listening, survey and involvement.

Covid-19 has been the biggest health and safety issue for the Group this year. Fortunately, the nature of our products and the 
topography of our factories have given us a good base to work from, to make our workplaces Covid-19 safe. We have an overall 
set of guidelines to work to, derived from government policies around the world and local teams in each business adapt these to 
the specifics of their individual site. These measures include:

•  Shielding of vulnerable employees
•  Working from home where feasible
•  Factory and office re-layouts to facilitate social-distancing
•  Enhanced cleaning and site hygiene
•  Additional use of PPE equipment where necessary
•  Minimisation and careful management of third-party visitors to our sites

Where our employees have to visit other third party sites, they have protocols from their business unit to follow and must also 
adhere to the policies and procedures of the site which they are visiting. Each business has a team responsible for ensuring that 
the Covid-19 plan is kept up to date and adapted, if required, as the circumstances of the pandemic continue to evolve. Taken 
as a whole, these measures have allowed us to operate at a consistently high level of effectiveness throughout the pandemic and 
ensured that we have minimised any loss of output, whilst keeping all employees safe.

Our Health and Safety KPIs can be found in the key performance indices section of the strategic report (page 6). Health and 
Safety incident reporting has improved across the Group and trends have generally been improving over recent years. Near miss 
reporting and knowledge exchange is also positively encouraged, to facilitate learning and improvement. At Board level, Les 
Thomas has H&S oversight and he conducts inspections with local management as appropriate.

Ethical policy

The Group complies with the Bribery Act 2010. We do not tolerate bribery, corruption or other unethical behaviour on the part 
of any of our businesses or business partners in any part of the world. Employee training has been completed in all areas of the 
business to ensure that the Act is complied with.

Outlook

Avingtrans is a niche engineering market leader in the Energy and Medical sectors, with a successful profitable growth record, 
underpinned by our ‘PIE’ strategy. Recent acquisitions will provide further opportunities for the Group to build enduring value 
for investors in resilient market niches. We will continue to be frugal and seek to crystallise value and return capital when the 
timing is right, as part of the PIE strategy implementation. Our PIE strategy has served us well in the current crisis and could 
result in further opportunities to grow shareholder value. 

19

Strategic Report (Continued)

Outlook (continued)

The Group continues to invest in its three divisions, with a focus on the global energy and medical markets, to position them 
for maximum shareholder value via eventual exits in the years to come. The integration of Magnetica is proceeding to plan. The 
previous acquisitions of Booth and Energy Steel are recovering well, as demonstrated by the results in the period. The Peter 
Brotherhood disposal has left the Group in a strong net cash position, so we are proactively pursuing potential PIE prospects, 
with the ability to capitalise on any suitable strategic opportunities. Our value creation targets continue to be accomplished as 
planned and are underpinned by a conservative approach to debt.

The energy divisions have a strong emphasis on the thermal power, nuclear and hydrocarbon markets and aftermarkets. Following 
the acquisition of a majority stake in Magnetica in the period, the medical division has pivoted to focus on compact, helium-
free MRI systems, which the Board believes could create significant future shareholder value. To drive profitability and market 
engagement,  each  division  has  a  clear  strategy  to  support  end-user  aftermarket  operations,  servicing  its  own  equipment  and 
(where pertinent) third parties, to capitalise on the continued market demand for efficient, reliable and safe facilities.

The on-going disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic remains our biggest uncertainty. However, we have taken rapid and 
effective cost and risk mitigation actions so far, to limit any potential downside and we will continue to be on our guard. 

Despite the impacts of Covid-19, our markets continue to develop and M&A opportunities remain a priority for us. Businesses 
like ours can command high valuations at the point of exit, as demonstrated by the disposal of Peter Brotherhood. The Board 
remains  cautiously  confident  about  the  current  strategic  direction  and  potential  future  opportunities  across  our  markets.  We 
will continue to refine our business by pinpointing specific additional acquisitions as the opportunities arise, to create superior 
shareholder value, whilst maintaining a prudent level of financial headroom, to enable us to endure any subsequent headwinds, 
whether deriving from Covid-19, or otherwise.

The Strategic Report was approved by the Board on 28 September 2021 and signed on its behalf by:

Roger McDowell 
Chairman 
28 September 2021 

Steve McQuillan 
Chief Executive Officer 
28 September 2021 

Stephen King
Chief Financial Officer
28 September 2021

20

Report of the Directors

The Directors present their report and the audited financial statements for the year ended 31 May 2021.

Matters included in the strategic report

The Directors’ consideration of likely future developments in the business, risks and KPI’s have been included in the Strategic 
Report.

Going concern

During  the  year,  the  Group  has  managed  its  working  capital  and  cash  flows  prudently  and  significantly  within  its  available 
funding headroom. The cash flows generated from the strong underlying profits were partly absorbed by a £2.2m working capital 
outflow, partly due to the envisaged further working capital outflow for the ES and Booth acquisitions, the timing of various 
contracts and a lower level of advance payments, resulting in an operating cash inflow of £6.4m for the year (2020 outflow 
£0.1m). In addition the cash inflow£26.6m (net of disposal costs) generated on the disposal of PB meant the Group moved into 
a substantial net cash position. 

At 31 May 2021, the Group had net cash (including IFRS16 debt) of £20.3m (31 May 2020: net debt: £16.3m incl IFRS 16 as 
detailed in note 24. Excluding IFRS16, debt at 31 May 2021 was net cash £23.3m (31 May 2020: net debt: £7.4m). Net assets 
of £99.0m (2020: £69.9m). 

The Group’s system of controls includes a comprehensive budgeting system, with annual budgets approved by the Directors. 
Monthly monitoring of actual results against budget is standard and the Board perform a regular review of variances. There is 
also a Quarterly review of the Group’s forecasts against actual results and market opportunities /conditions.

Annual budgets consist of a consolidated profit and loss, balance sheet and a cashflow for the following 2 years. This is based 
on local managements’ understanding of the markets, customer requirements, supply  chains, capability and capacity. This is 
challenged  by  Divisional  Management  to  ensure  it  reflects  a  reasonable  representation  of  all  evidence  available.  Executive 
Management examine each Division’s budgets in detail, alongside an analysis of risks and opportunities to ensure that they are 
adequately  sensitised  across  markets/customers/  contracts  /opportunities.  Divisional  Management  present  the  Budgets  to  the 
Board, which evaluates them against it’s in depth knowledge of market/economic conditions. These Budgets are then refined and 
presented for final approval by the Board.

Each quarter, local and divisional management update the 2 year forecast with their latest market knowledge and present the 
updated forecasts to the Executive Management and subsequently to the Board.

Key assumptions are applied at a site level, and include a sensitised view of the order pipeline, its conversion and completion, 
alongside a risk profile for each division, where further sensitivity is applied, as deemed prudent on consolidation. 

As reported in the Strategic Review, the Group still experienced some impacts from Covid-19 during the year. This resulted in 
some delayed orders, targeted restructuring, supply chain delays, etc. These conditions were fully recognised during the budget 
process, alongside a cautious view of short-term markets, whilst reflecting a restrained view on the trade-out of the current order 
book and expected beat rate orders.  

As discussed in more detail in the Chairman’s statement and Strategic report, looking into 2022/23 and beyond, the Group has a 
number of exciting opportunities across all of its operations that should deliver growth and shareholder value. Despite Covid-19, 
we saw the recent acquisitions, Booth and Energy Steel continue to deliver improved performances and we anticipate further 
improvement in each case during FY22 and FY23 with underlying positive results and cashflow helping to underpin the near 
term Group performance. 

As reported at 31 May 2021, the Group had net cash of (including IFRS16 debt) £20.3m, excluding IFRS16 debt at 31 May 2021 
net cash was £23.3m. Additionally the Group had £33.9m of undrawn committed borrowing facilities – further details are set 
out in note 22.

The Group has met all banking covenants during the year and these are modelled in the budget to ensure forward compliance. The 
budgets and results are regularly reviewed with the Group’s principal bankers to ensure adequate banking facilities remain in place 
at all times.  At the time of writing, the Board expect adequate bank facilities to remain in place throughout the review period.

The Board consider these facilities are sufficient for the Group to meet its approved operational and budget plan. However, the 
Board also consider that, should unexpected conditions arise that had not been already adequately modelled through sensitivities 
already built into the underlying budget model, that it has the following sources of additional capital:

•  Further bank borrowing against freehold land and buildings – including the Luton site which has outline planning permission;
•  Potential sale and leaseback of freehold sites;
•  Extension of current and re-instatement of previous RCF facilities;
•  Extension of borrowing against the debtor book; and
• 

Issue of new shares on AIM

21

Report of the Directors (Continued)

Going concern (continued)

The detailed cash flow forecasts for the Group for the period extending to 31 May 2023, indicate that the Group expects to 
have adequate financial resources to continue in business and work within its current banking arrangements, to deliver on its 
near-term strategic objectives. In the quarter since 31 May 21 the Group has generally performed as expected. Coupled with an 
ongoing supportive relationship with the Group’s principal bankers and the fact the Directors have not identified any material 
uncertainties that may cast significant doubt on the ability of the company to continue to operate as a going concern, the Directors 
continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the Annual Report and accounts.

Results and dividends

The  Group’s  profit  for  the  year  before  tax  from  continuing  operations  amounted  to  £5,447,000  (loss  2020:  £69,000).  This 
excludes profit after tax from discontinued operations of £22,136,000 (2020: £1,483,000) (note 35). The Board considers that 
it is appropriate to declare a final dividend this year in the context of the overall Group result, reflecting no interim dividend 
was declared, therefore a final dividend of 4.0p is proposed for the year ended 31 May 2021 (2020: Nil pence), taking the total 
dividend for the year to 4.0 pence (2020: total Nil pence). 

Substantial shareholdings

As at 28 September 2021, the following had notified the Company that they held or were beneficially interested in 3% or more 
of the Company’s issued ordinary share capital:

Harwood Capital 
Business Growth Fund 
Funds managed by Unicorn Asset Management Limited 
Funds managed by JTC Employer Solutions Trustee Limited 
R S McDowell’s Pension Fund 
P McDowell’s Pension Fund 
Funds managed by Threadneedle Investments 
Funds managed by LGT Bank 

Directors and their interests

Number of 
shares 
‘000 

Percentage
of issued
share capital
owned

4,034 
2,363 
1,946 
1,867 
1,406 
1,053 
1,039 
972 

12.6%
7.4%
6.1%
5.8%
4.4%
3.3%
3.2%
3.0%

The present Directors of the Company and those that served during the year are set out on page 1. Their interests in the share 
capital of the Company are set out below.

R S McDowell 
S McQuillan  
S M King 
L J Thomas 

Share options

Ordinary shares of 5p each
31 May
31 May 
2020
2021 

1,406,409 
416,749 
361,435 
16,000 

1,406,409
296,242
259,358
16,000

The  Directors’  interests  with  respect  to  options  to  acquire  ordinary  shares  are  detailed  in  the  Report  of  the  Directors  on 
Remuneration.

Interests in contracts

No Director was materially interested in any contract during the year.

22

 
  
 
  
 
 
 
   
 
 
Report of the Directors (Continued)

Financial instruments

The Group’s operations expose it to a variety of financial risks including the effects of changes in interest rates on debt, foreign 
currency exchange rates, funding, working capital, pension scheme, credit risk and liquidity risk.

The Group’s principal financial instruments comprise cash and bank deposits, bank loans and overdrafts and obligations under 
finance leases together with trade receivables and trade payables that arise directly from its operations. The Group has entered 
into  derivative  foreign  exchange  transactions  where  it  has  certainty  of  the  outcome.  Information  about  the  use  of  financial 
instruments by the Group and the Group’s financial risk management objectives and policy disclosures is given in notes 22 and 
24 to the financial statements.

Research and development

During the year £808,000 (2020: £608,000) of development costs (per note 13) were capitalised as intangible assets. This was 
predominately at HT Luton for small submersible pump prototype, Metalcraft in relation to waste storage equipment and the 
Magnetica sub group for helium free niche MRI application designs.

Disabled persons

The Group gives full and fair consideration to applications for employment from disabled persons, where they have the necessary 
abilities  and  skills  for  that  position,  and  wherever  possible  will  retrain  employees  who  become  disabled,  so  that  they  can 
continue their employment in another position. The Group engages, promotes, and trains staff on the basis of their capabilities, 
qualifications and experience, without discrimination, giving all employees an equal opportunity to progress.

Directors’ indemnities

The  Company  has  taken  out  directors’  and  officers’  liability  insurance  for  the  benefit  of  its  Directors  during  the  year  which 
remains in force at the date of this report.

Employee involvement

It is the policy of the Group to communicate with employees by employee representation on works and staff committees and by 
briefing meetings conducted by senior management. Career development is encouraged through suitable training. 

S172 – promotion of the success of the Company

The members of the Board consider, both individually and together, that they have acted in the way they consider, in good faith, 
would be most likely to promote the success of the Company for the benefit of its members as a whole (having regard to the 
stakeholders and matters set out in s172(1)(a-f) of the Companies Act 2006) in the decisions taken during the year ended 31 May 
2021. The Company’s section 172 statement can be found in the Strategic Report on pages 13 to 15.

Statement of Directors’ responsibilities for the financial statements 

The Directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law 
and regulations.

Company law requires the Directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under that law the Directors have 
elected  to  prepare  the  Parent  and  Group  financial  statements  in  accordance  with  international  financial  reporting  standards 
adopted pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 1606/2002 as it applies in the European Union and international accounting standards in 
conformity with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006. Under company law, the Directors must not approve the financial 
statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs and the profit or loss of the Company 
and Group for that period. 

In preparing these financial statements, the directors are required to:

select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;

• 
•  make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
• 

state whether applicable IFRSs have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial 
statements; and

•  prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Company and Group 

will continue in business.

23

Report of the Directors (Continued)

Statement of Directors’ responsibilities for the financial statements (continued)

The Directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the Company’s 
and Group’s transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Company and Group 
and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for 
safeguarding the assets of the Company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other 
irregularities. 

The Directors confirm that:

• 

• 

so far as each of the Directors is aware there is no relevant audit information of which the Company’s and Group’s auditor is 
unaware; and
the Directors have taken all steps that they ought to have taken as directors to make themselves aware of any relevant audit 
information and to establish that the auditor is aware of that information.

The directors are responsible for preparing the annual report in accordance with applicable law and regulations. The directors 
consider  the  annual  report  and  the  financial  statements,  taken  as  a  whole,  provides  the  information  necessary  to  assess  the 
company’s performance, business model and strategy and is fair, balanced and understandable.

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.

Auditor

Grant Thornton UK LLP (“Grant Thornton”) are willing to continue in office in accordance with section 489 of the Companies 
Act 2006, and a resolution to reappoint them will be proposed at the Annual General Meeting.

The report of the Directors was approved by the Board on 28 September 2021 and signed on its behalf by:

Stephen King
Director

24

Corporate Governance

Chairman’s Introduction

The Group is committed to maintaining high standards of corporate governance. The Board recognises the importance of good 
corporate governance under AIM Rule 50 and is accountable to the Company’s shareholders and stakeholders for its adoption 
throughout the Group. To facilitate this, we have adopted the Quoted Companies Alliance Corporate Governance Code 2018 
(QCA Code).

This statement describes how the Group has complied with the ten high level principles set out in the QCA code.

1.  Establish a strategy and business model which promote the long-term value for shareholders

The Board has established a core strategy to buy and build engineering companies in niche markets where we see consolidation 
opportunities; a strategy we call Pinpoint-Invest-Exit (“PIE”) which seeks to promote long-term value for shareholders as set out 
within the Strategic Report page 4.

2.  Seek to understand and meet shareholder needs and expectations

The Board attaches a high level of importance to maintaining good relationships with shareholders, whether they are institutions 
or private investors and all other stakeholders, representing them and promoting their interests, as well as being accountable to 
them for the performance and activities of the Group. The Board believes it is important to engage with its shareholders and 
aims to do this through presentations, conference calls, face-to-face meetings and the Annual General Meeting. Following the 
announcement of the Group’s half-year and year-end results, presentations are made to analysts and major shareholders to update 
them on progress and invite them to ask questions.

The Board is updated on the latest shareholder information by the receipt of shareholder register movements, analyst reports and 
feedback from the Group’s brokers, following investor road shows after half-year and year-end results.

The  Board  encourages  all  Directors  to  attend  the Annual  General  Meeting  as  an  opportunity  to  communicate  directly  with 
investors and actively encourages participative dialogue.

The Company provides contact details on its investor relations page on the Company’s corporate website: www.avingtrans.plc.uk.

3.  Take into account wider stakeholder and social responsibilities and their implications for long-

term success

The Board recognise that our customers, suppliers and employees are crucial to the Group’s success. The Group’s responsibilities, 
policies and controls on Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) and Social Responsibility including SECR are set in the Strategic 
Report pages 15 to 19.

We have established long-term relationships with key customers and suppliers. We encourage feedback from our employees to 
improve the culture and working environment of the Company and hold regular meetings to keep them informed on matters 
affecting them directly and on financial and broader economic factors affecting the Group. There are specific information channels 
in respect of health & safety matters. The Group has a proactive approach to health, safety and the environment and is committed 
to the highest practicable standards of safety and health management and the minimisation of adverse environmental impacts.

During the period we embedded further SECR reporting on carbon emissions for our UK sites. However, given the disruption 
to the operations in the year resulting from the Covid-19 pandemic, and this being the first year of data capture, we have not 
set Group goals at this point. However, many of our sites who hold the ISO 14001 are already working towards achieving their 
site-specific goals.

4.  Embed effective risk management, considering both opportunities and threats, throughout the 

organisation

The Board’s approach to risk is intended to protect the interests of our shareholders and other stakeholders whilst allowing the 
business to develop. Our risk appetite depends on the nature of an individual risk and it is considered in Board discussions and 
also as part of our risk review process in the Audit Committee. From time to time, we obtain advice from third party experts, in 
a cost-effective manner, to complement in-house knowledge.

The long-term success of the Group relies, in part, on managing the risks to our business. Whilst the Group has risk management 
policies and practices in place, which address and monitor risk, we seek to improve those practices each year. The Chief Financial 
Officer is responsible for risk management on behalf of the Board and the Audit Committee reviews the risk register on a regular 
basis. Ultimately, our aim is to ensure that risk management is embedded within the core processes of our business units.

The Group uses a risk register to help coordinate its risk management process. The risk register identifies the key business risks 
and documents the policies and practices in place to mitigate those risks.

25

Corporate Governance (Continued)

We  classify  the  principal  risks  to  the  business  into  three  groups,  namely,  strategic  risk,  operational  risk  and  financial  risk. 
The principal risks identified by the Directors under these groups are set out in the Strategic Report pages 9 to 13. The risks 
considered during the Group-wide risk management process cover a wider range of issues than the key risks.

The Board, through the Audit Committee, reviews the operation and effectiveness of the systems of internal control throughout 
the accounting year and the period to the date of approval of the financial statements, although it should be understood that 
such systems are designed to provide reasonable, but not absolute assurance against material misstatement or loss. The Group’s 
system of controls includes:

•  A comprehensive budgeting system with annual budgets approved by the Directors. Monthly monitoring of actual results 

against budget and regular review of variances.

•  Close involvement of Directors, who approve all significant transactions.
• 
• 
•  Bank facilities and other treasury functions, which are monitored and policy changes approved by the Board.

Internal management rules which include financial and operating control procedures for all management of the Group.
Identification and appraisal by the Board of the major risks affecting the business and the financial controls.

The Board has considered the need for an internal audit function and concluded that this would not be appropriate at present due 
to the size of the Group.

5.  Maintain the Board as a well-functioning, balanced team led by the chair

The Board of Avingtrans plc comprises of a Non-executive Chairman, two Executive Directors and two Non-executive Directors. 
The Board is chaired by R S McDowell and assisted by the Senior Independent Non-executive Director L J Thomas, who have 
primary responsibility for running the Board.

S McQuillan, has executive responsibilities for the remaining operations, results and strategic development of the Group. S M 
King is Chief Financial Officer and Company Secretary. The Board structure ensures that no individual or group dominates the 
decision-making process.

The  Non-executive  Directors  are  considered  to  be  independent  of  management  and  from  any  business  relationship  which 
could  materially  interfere  with  their  independent  judgement. The  Senior  Independent  Non-executive  Director  is  available  to 
shareholders if they have concerns. 

The Board meets regularly with no less than ten such meetings held in each calendar year rotating locations around different 
business units. There is a formal schedule of matters specifically reserved to the Board for its decision to enable it to manage overall 
control of the Group’s affairs. Management has an obligation to provide the Board with appropriate and timely information to 
enable it to discharge its duties. The Chairman ensures that all Directors are properly briefed on issues arising at Board meetings.

The  Nominations  Committee  is  responsible  for  monitoring  and  reviewing  the  membership  and  composition  of  the  Board, 
including the decision to recommend the appointment, or to re-appoint a director.

The Company’s Articles of Association ensure Directors retire at the third Annual General Meeting after the Annual General 
Meeting at which they were elected and may, if eligible, offer themselves for re-election.

R S McDowell chairs the Nominations Committee, L J Thomas chairs the Audit Committee and J S Clarke chairs the Remuneration 
Committee. The Non-executive Directors and the Chairman are members of all the above committees.

6.  Ensure that between them the directors have the necessary up-to-date experience and capabilities

The  Board  reviews  its  configuration  to  ensure  it  has  the  skills  and  oversight  capability  in  key  markets  on  a  regular  basis, 
strengthening our ability to leverage shareholder value via the PIE strategy.

All new Directors receive a full, formal and tailored induction on joining the Board, including meetings with senior management 
and advisers and visits to the Group’s operational locations. Training requirements are reviewed periodically and appropriate 
refreshers scheduled.

The Board calendar is planned to ensure that Directors are briefed on a wide range of topics throughout the year and meetings 
are rotated around business units, to ensure the Non-Executive Directors have the opportunity to visit sites and discuss aspects 
of the business with employees. 

All Directors have access to the services of the Company Secretary and may take independent professional advice at the Group’s 
expense in the furtherance of their duties.

26

Corporate Governance (Continued)

7.  Evaluate  Board  performance  based  on  clear  and  relevant  objectives,  seeking  continuous 

improvement

The  Chairman  reviews  the  Board’s  annual  performance  and  measures  its  effectiveness  and  that  of  its  Committees.  Each 
Board/Committee member completes an assessment, which provides numeric scoring against specific categories. Each Board/
Committee member also provides recommendations for improvement of the effectiveness of the Board/Committee.

The criteria for effectiveness include assessing:

•  Board/Committee composition (including succession planning);
•  Board/external reporting and information flows;
•  Board Process, Internal Control & Risk Management
•  Board Accountability
•  Executive management effectiveness;
•  Standards of Conduct. 

Alongside  this  review  each  Director  receives  an  appraisal. The  Chairman  conducts  appraisals  in  respect  of  the  Group  Chief 
Executive and Non-Executive Directors; the Non-Executive Directors (following discussions with the other Directors) conducts 
the Chairman’s appraisal; and the Group Chief Executive conducts appraisals in respect of the other Executive Directors.

8. Promote a corporate culture that is based on ethical values

Culture

The Company has a strong ethical culture based upon its Code of Ethics and the Company values Integrity, Quality and Agility. 
The Company’s reputation is built on our values, the values of our employees, and our collective commitment to acting at all 
times with integrity.

Part of the work of the Audit & Risk Committee involves reviewing the Group Whistle-Blowing Policy, by which employees of 
the Group may, in confidence, raise concerns about possible financial or other improprieties.

The Board’s corporate governance structures are reviewed as part of the Board and Committee effectiveness process described 
above.

Compliance with laws

The Group has systems in place designed to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations and conformity with all 
relevant codes of business practice.

Compliance with the Bribery Act 2010 involves an Anti-Corruption Policy and a Group Whistle-blowing Policy. Training is 
given to all appropriate employees through the use of online tools, to ensure that there is full understanding of the Bribery Act 
2010 and awareness of the consequences of not adhering to Group policies. 

The  Group  has  taken  the  appropriate  steps  to  comply  with  the  provisions  of  the  Market Abuse  Regulation  and  the  Modern 
Slavery  Act.  The  Group  has  also  taken  appropriate  steps  to  comply  with  the  General  Data  Protection  Regulation  (GDPR) 
and has appointed a Data Protection Officer, who is responsible for managing information governance and implementing the 
requirements of GDPR.

Safety, health and environment

The Group has a proactive approach to Safety, Health and the Environment and is committed to the highest practicable standards 
of safety and health management and the minimisation of adverse environmental impacts.

The Board ensures that Health and Safety issues for employees, customers and the public are of foremost concern in all Group 
activities. The Group Chief Executive, supported by external advice, is charged with overall responsibility. The Group encourages 
both internal and external training through a formal network of full-time officers and Health and Safety nominated “champions” 
at all levels. Statistical analysis is used to highlight any areas where additional training or improved working practices would be 
beneficial, and positive action is promptly implemented. All divisions have formulated safety management systems.

Insider trading

The Board has appropriate policies and procedures in place to guard against insider trading by employees including Directors.  
Appropriate clearances are required in order that trades can be made and all applicable employees are made aware of relevant 
close periods prior to financial results being announced.

27

 
Corporate Governance (Continued)

9.  Maintain governance structures and processes that are fit for purpose and support good decision-

making by the Board

The Board

Please see details above at “5. Maintain the Board as a well-functioning, balanced team led by the chair” and has a schedule of 
matters which are specifically reserved for its decision.

Board Committees

The Board has three Committees that assist in the discharge of its responsibilities:

•  Remuneration;
•  Audit & Risk; and
•  Nominations.

Remuneration Committee

The Remuneration Committee is responsible for making recommendations to the Board on the Group’s framework of executive 
remuneration  and  its  cost.  The  Committee  determines  the  contract  terms,  remuneration  and  other  benefits  for  each  of  the 
Executive  Directors,  including  performance-related  bonus  schemes,  pension  rights  and  compensation  payments.  The  Board 
itself determines the remuneration of the Non-Executive Directors. The Remuneration Committee comprises the Non-Executive 
Directors. Further details on the composition and work of the Remuneration Committee are set out in the Remuneration Report 
on pages 30 to 31.

Audit & Risk Committee

The Audit & Risk Committee comprises the Non-Executive Directors. The Committee meetings are also attended, by invitation, 
by the Chief Executive and Group Finance Director. The Committee meets no less than two times annually.

The Committee is responsible for reviewing a wide range of financial reporting and related matters including the annual accounts 
before their submission to the Board. The Committee is required to focus in particular on critical accounting policies and practices 
adopted by the Group, and any significant areas of judgment that materially impact reported results. It is also responsible for 
monitoring  the  internal  controls  that  are  operated  by  management  to  ensure  the  integrity  of  the  information  reported  to  the 
shareholders.

The Committee provides a forum for reporting by the Group’s external auditors, and advises the Group Board on the appointment, 
independence and objectivity of the external auditors and on their remuneration both for statutory audit and non-audit work. It 
also discusses the nature, scope and timing of the statutory audit with the external auditors. 

Nominations Committee

The  Nominations  Committee  is  responsible  for  reviewing  the  structure,  size  and  composition  required  of  the  Board  when 
compared  to  its  current  position,  and  it  makes  recommendations  to  the  Board  with  regard  to  any  changes.  It  considers  and 
reviews succession planning for Board Directors, taking into account the challenges and opportunities facing the Company. It 
identifies and nominates for Board approval suitable candidates to fill Board vacancies as and when they arise, and it keeps under 
review both the Executive and Non-Executive leadership needs of the Company to enable the Company to compete effectively 
in the marketplace and to ensure it has the skills and oversight capability in our key.

The Nominations Committee also has responsibility for overseeing the re-election by shareholders of any director under the 
‘retirement by rotation’ provisions in the Company’s articles of association.

Executive Management Committee

The Board is supported by Executives, who meet at least quarterly to review performance and governance for the Group and 
regularly perform site visits. A well-defined delegation of authority matrix enables the divisional management teams to operate 
with a degree of autonomy at a business unit level. 

Evolution of governance framework

The  Board  continuously  monitors  its  composition  and  governance  framework,  taking  into  account  effectiveness  and  the 
Company’s plans for future growth.

28

Corporate Governance (Continued)

10. Communicate how the Company is governed and is performing by maintaining a dialogue with 

shareholders and relevant stakeholders

The corporate governance principles are set out in this statement governance above and the performance of the Company is set 
out in the Strategic Report page 4. 

The Board maintains an active dialogue with both its institutional and private investors and stakeholders through the Annual 
Report, full-year and half-year announcements, the Annual General Meeting, General Meetings and one-to-one meetings with 
larger existing, or potential new shareholders. In addition, we are now seeking to keep smaller shareholders better informed by 
reaching out through appropriate communications channels (eg Vox Markets).

The  Board  encourages  all  Directors  to  attend  the Annual  General  Meeting  as  an  opportunity  to  communicate  directly  with 
investors and actively encourages participative dialogue.

The  Company  provides  a  full  range  of  corporate  information  (including  all  Company  announcements, Annual  and  half  year 
Statements and presentations, contact details) to shareholders, investors and the public on the Company’s corporate website:  
www.avingtrans.plc.uk.

The  results  of  the  proxy  votes  for  the  Company’s  previous Annual  General  Meeting  on  18  November  2020  were  published 
through RNS.

Roger McDowell
Chairman
28 September 2021

29

Report of the Directors on Remuneration

Composition

The Remuneration Committee during the period comprised J S Clarke (Chairman), R S McDowell and L J Thomas. 

Principal function

The  remuneration  packages,  including  contract  periods  of  Executive  Directors  and  senior  management,  are  determined  by 
the Remuneration Committee. It ensures that the remuneration packages are appropriate for their responsibilities, taking into 
consideration the overall financial and business position of the Group. The remuneration of R S McDowell is determined by the 
Non-executive Directors.

Avingtrans Remuneration Principles 

Our remuneration principles are driven by the idea that executive remuneration should be simple and straightforward. Additionally, 
it should support the delivery of the Pinpoint-Invest-Exit (PIE) strategy and pay only for results when we exit businesses at an 
enhanced shareholder value. Our remuneration structure has the following attributes: 

•  The base salary, benefits and annual bonus of the executive Directors are positioned around the average for our peer group 

on AIM, relative to our scale.

•  Long-term incentives are directly aligned to shareholders’ interests, by linking remuneration specifically to the creation of 

shareholder value. 

The Group’s PIE strategy is well known to our shareholders. The Committee believes that the strategy should be linked to the 
Directors’ Remuneration. This means that the base salaries for the executive Directors are set as above, but with a weighting 
towards long-term incentives. These incentives reward Directors only for significant outperformance and where shareholders 
also share in the resulting gains. Specifically:

•  The executive Directors and the Chairman are aligned with shareholders, as material investors in Avingtrans.
•  Management are incentivised to maximise returns for shareholders in two ways: 

•  Via awards of share options, which are again pegged at around the average award level for our peer group on AIM and 

which can only be exercised on the achievement of substantial share price growth.

•  By means of Exit bonus elements, which only trigger on the disposal of businesses and which are calculated as a percentage 
of the shareholder value enhancement for that asset – ie taking account of the initial investment on acquisition, any additional 
investment during the period that the business is owned by Avingtrans and the disposal proceeds, net of costs.

Base salary and benefits

The Committee sets the salary of each Executive Director by reference to the responsibility of the position held, performance of 
the individual and external market data. Salaries are reviewed annually.

Annual performance related bonus

The Company operates a bonus scheme for its Directors which enables it to attract and retain high calibre senior management 
personnel who make a major contribution to the financial performance of the Group. Bonuses paid under the scheme are accrued 
under the annual bonus plan approved by the Remuneration Committee. The plan is based on various financial metrics around 
cash and financial performance.

Divisional Long-term incentives 

The Committee has instigated long-term incentives for divisional senior management which align this cohort with shareholders, 
since they are based purely on performance and on the increase in value of the Group – ie: 

•  Via awards of appropriate share options, such as using a standard “CSOP” HMRC-approved scheme. 
•  By means of Exit bonuses as noted above.

Exit  bonus  arrangements  are  intended  to  incentivise  Directors  and  senior  managers  to  create  value  for  the  Group  and  our 
shareholders. These bonus elements only pay out if a material exit has occurred and if substantial shareholder added value is the 
result. The Board has ultimate control of Exit timing, to ensure that optimum value is achieved.

Share options

The  Committee  is  responsible  for  approving  grants  of  share  options  to  the  Executive  Directors.  Options  may  be  exercised 
between three and ten years from the date the option is granted but only if certain performance criteria are satisfied, as set out 
on page 31.

30

Report of the Directors on Remuneration (Continued)

Pensions
The  Company  is  responsible  for  the  contributions  to  the  defined  contribution  schemes  selected  by  the  Executive  Directors. 
Details of contributions provided in the year are set out in note 7 to the financial statements.

Service agreements
R S McDowell, S McQuillan and S M King have service contracts which are terminable on 12 months’ notice by either party. 
The Committee consider that these contracts are in line with the market.  

Non-executive Directors
Non-executive Directors’ remuneration is reviewed by all members of the Board other than the Non-executive Director under 
review and takes the form solely of fees. L Thomas and J Clarke have a letter of appointment terminable on three months’ notice 
by either party.

Compensation for loss of office
There are no predetermined special provisions for Executive or Non-executive Directors with regard to compensation in the 
event of loss of office. The Remuneration Committee considers the circumstances of individual cases of early termination and 
determines compensation payments accordingly with the aim not to reward poor performance.

Directors’ emoluments
Details of the remuneration of all Directors are set out in note 7 to the financial statements.

Share options
Details of the share options of all Directors are as follows:

Executive: 
S McQuillan 

S M King 

22/11/2013 
21/12/2016 
15/12/2017 
15/11/2018 
17/12/2019 
24/11/2020 

25/09/2010 
22/11/2013 
21/12/2016 
15/12/2017 
15/11/2018 
17/12/2019 
24/11/2020 

   At 1 June 
2020 
£ 

Date of  
grant  

95,000 
450,000 
140,000 
115,000 
175,000 
– 

  At 31 May 
2021 
£ 

Exercised 

  Weighted
average
exercise
price
£

95,000 
15,250 
140,000 
– 
– 
– 

– 
434,750 
– 
115,000 
175,000 
180,000 

1.760
1.930
1.815
2.200
2.670
2.880

Granted 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
180,000 

975,000 

180,000 

250,250 

904,750 

2.296 

39,733 
84,000 
330,000 
110,000 
100,000 
155,000 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
160,000 

39,733 
84,000 
15,250 
110,000 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
314,750 
– 
100,000 
155,000 
160,000 

818,733 

160,000 

248,983 

729,750 

0.395
1.760
1.930
1.815
2.200
2.670
2.880

2.332

The share options are exercisable between three and ten years from the date of grant if the growth in adjusted basic earnings per 
share of Avingtrans plc during the three years between grant date and vesting date is at least equal to the increase in the Retail 
Price Index during the same period.

J S Clarke
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee
28 September 2021

31

 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Independent Auditor’s Report to the  
Members of Avingtrans plc

Opinion

Our opinion on the financial statements is unmodified

We have audited the financial statements of Avingtrans Plc (the ‘parent company’) and its subsidiaries (the ‘group’) for the 
year ended 31 May 2021 which comprise the consolidated income statement, the consolidated statement of comprehensive 
income, the consolidated and company balance sheets, the consolidated and company statements of changes in equity, the 
consolidated and company statements of cash flows and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant 
accounting  policies. The  financial  reporting  framework  that  has  been  applied  in  their  preparation  is  applicable  law  and 
international  accounting  standards  in  conformity  with  the  requirements  of  the  Companies Act  2006  and,  as  regards  the 
parent company financial statements, as applied in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act 2006. 

In our opinion:

• 

• 

• 

• 

the financial statements give a true and fair view of the state of the group’s and of the parent company’s affairs as at 31 
May 2021 and of the group’s profit for the year then ended;
the group financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with international accounting standards in 
conformity with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006;
the  parent  company  financial  statements  have  been  properly  prepared  in  accordance  with  international  accounting 
standards  in  conformity  with  the  requirements  of  the  Companies  Act  2006  and  as  applied  in  accordance  with  the 
provisions of the Companies Act 2006; and 
the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006..

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 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.

Conclusions relating to going concern

We are responsible for concluding on the appropriateness of the directors’ use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based 
on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant 
doubt on the group’s and the parent company’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty 
exists, we are required to draw attention in our report to the related disclosures in the financial statements or, if such disclosures 
are inadequate, to modify the auditor’s opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our 
report. However, future events or conditions may cause the group or the parent company to cease to continue as a going concern.

A  description  of  our  evaluation  of  management’s  assessment  of  the  ability  to  continue  to  adopt  the  going  concern  basis  of 
accounting, and the key observations arising with respect to that evaluation is included in the Key Audit Matters section of our 
report.

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, 
individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the group’s and the parent company’s ability to continue as a going 
concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the directors’ use of the going concern basis of accounting in the 
preparation of the financial statements is appropriate. 

The  responsibilities  of  the  directors  with  respect  to  going  concern  are  described  in  the  ‘Responsibilities  of  directors  for  the 
financial statements’ section of this report. 

32

Independent Auditor’s Report to the  
Members of Avingtrans plc (Continued)

Our approach to the audit

Overview of our audit approach

Overall materiality: 

Group: £983,000, which represents 1% of the group’s revenue.

Parent company: £397,000, which represents 0.5% of the parent company’s total assets.

Key audit matters were identified as:

•    Occurrence of long-term contract revenue – Contracts not completed at year-end (New);
•    Valuation of goodwill (Same as previous year);
•    Accuracy of Goodwill and intangibles arising on business combinations (New)
•    Accuracy of defined benefit pension liabilities (Same as previous year); and
•    Going Concern (Same as previous year)

Our auditor’s report for the year ended 31 May 2020 included two key audit matters that have 
not been reported as key audit matters in our current year’s report. These relate to the accuracy, 
completeness,  valuation  and  presentation  of  the  application  of  IFRS  16  which  is  no  longer 
deemed to be a key audit matter due to the prior year representing the year of adoption of IFRS 
16. The second key audit matter relates to the occurrence of long-term contract revenue and 
by association accuracy of accrued income, completeness of deferred income and accuracy of 
work in progress, this risk has been pinpointed in the current year to focus specifically on the 
contracts not completed at year-end. 

We performed full scope audit procedures on the financial statements of all group entities in 
the  United  Kingdom  and  Hayward Tyler  Inc  a  company  registered  in  the  United  States. We 
performed substantive procedures on the key audit matters identified for the Group in Energy 
Steel and Supply Co, a company incorporated in the United States. We performed analytical 
procedures over non-significant components in India, China and the United States.

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  that  had  the  greatest  effect  on:  the  overall  audit  strategy; 
the  allocation  of  resources  in  the  audit;  and  directing  the  efforts  of  the 
engagement team. These matters were addressed in the context of our audit 
of the financial statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, 
and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters. 

In  the  graph  below,  we  have  presented  the  key  audit  matters,  significant 
risks and other risks relevant to the audit.

Description

Audit  
response

KAM

Disclosures

Our Results

33

Independent Auditor’s Report to the  
Members of Avingtrans plc

t
c
a
p
m

i

t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
s

l
a
i
c
n
a
n
fi

l
a
i
t
n
e
t
o
P

High

Occurence 
of ship & bill 
revenue

Occurence 
of long-term 
contract revenue 
– delivered 
contracts

Valuation 
of assets

Accuracy of 
capitalised 
development 
expenditure

Completeness 
of warranty 
provision

Low

Low

Accuracy of profit 
on disposal of 
discontinued 
operation (group)

Valuation of 
goodwill

Accuracy 
of defined 
benefit 
pension 
liabilities

Presentation 
of exceptional 
expenditure

Valuation of 
investments

Occurance 
of long-term 
contract 
revenue

Accuracy of 
goodwill and 
intangibles arising 
on business 
combinations

Presentation of 
discontinued 
operations

Going Concern

Management 
over-ride of 
controls

Government 
assistant schemes

Extent of management judgement

High

 Key audit matter     

 Significant risk     

 Other risk

Key Audit Matter – Group 

How our scope addressed the matter – Group

Risk  1  –  occurrence  of  long  term  contract  revenue  – 
Contracts not complete at year-end

In  responding  to  the  key  audit  matter,  we  performed  the 
following audit procedures: 

We identified the occurrence of long-term contract revenue 
–  contracts  not  complete  at  year-end  as  one  of  the  most 
significant  assessed  risks  of  material  misstatement  due  to 
fraud and error. 

Revenue is recognised throughout the group as the fair value 
of consideration receivable in respect of the performance of 
contracts. 

Determining  the  amount  of  revenue  to  be  recognised  on 
the  performance  of  contracts  open  at  the  year-end  requires 
management  to  make  significant  judgements  and  estimates 
as to the stage of completion, the cost to complete and impact 
of  any  changes  in  scope  of  work. These  estimates  increase 
the  susceptibility  of  the  occurrence  of  long-term  contract 
revenue to management bias.

•  performing  walkthroughs 
effectiveness of controls; 

to  assess 

the  design 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

assessing  whether  the  revenue  recognition  accounting 
policy is in accordance with the requirements of IFRS 15 
and has been applied appropriately and consistently;

testing a sample of contracts open at the year-end on a 
risk-based  approach  where  revenue  was  recognised  in 
the year and agreement of the revenue recorded through 
consideration  of  key  information  including;  the  total 
contract value, total expected costs and costs incurred in 
the year;

comparing  the  prior  estimates  for  total  costs  and  the 
associated  revenue  recognised  for  accuracy  against  the 
actual achieved results to test management’s accuracy in 
forecasting  costs  on  contracts;  including  an  assessment 
of any changes resulting from the impact of COVID-19;

testing  of  period  13  adjustments  and  management 
journals impacting revenue to assess the appropriateness 
of such journals; and

challenging  management  regarding 
the  status  and 
judgements made regarding contracts selected for testing 
and gained further corroboration where needed.

34

 
 
 
 
Independent Auditor’s Report to the  
Members of Avingtrans plc (Continued)

Relevant disclosures in the Annual Report and  
Accounts 2021

•  Financial statements: Note 2 – Segmental analysis

Our results

Our audit work did not identify any material misstatements 
in  the  occurrence  of  long-term  contract  revenue  relating  to 
contracts not completed at year-end. 

Key Audit Matter – Group 

How our scope addressed the matter – Group

Risk 2 – Valuation of goodwill – Medical and Industrial 
Imaging division

In  responding  to  the  key  audit  matter,  we  performed  the 
following audit procedures:

We identified valuation of goodwill - Medical and Industrial 
imaging division as one of the most significant assessed risks 
of material misstatement due to error.

The  group  has  recorded  goodwill  before  impairment  of 
£22,227k of which £1,825k is associated to the medical and 
industrial imaging division as a result of previous acquisitions 
and acquisitions in the year. 

IAS 36 requires goodwill to be tested annually for impairment 
at a cash generating unit (CGU) level.

Our  risk  is  focused  on  the  Medical  and  Industrial  Imagine 
division  due  to  the  nature  of  the  division  being  research 
and  development  focused  and  a  lack  of  profits  in  current 
and previous years. The valuation of the CGU is subject to 
estimation  uncertainty  and    is  susceptible  to  management 
bias through the key assumptions used in the discounted cash 
flow calculation. Due to the nature of this CGU the headroom 
is lower than other CGU’s and thus there is greater sensitivity 
around the key assumptions. 

• 

considering  the  appropriateness  of  the  cash  generating 
unit  definition  applied  by  management,  based  on 
discussions with management and inspection of internal 
reporting documents;

•  obtaining  and  challenging  management’s  forecasts 
supporting  the  carrying  value  of  goodwill,  including 
consideration  of  management’s  assumptions  on  the 
impact of Brexit and Covid-19 and historical forecasting 
accuracy;

• 

• 

the  discount  rate  applied, 

assessing 
including  an 
assessment  by  our  valuation  specialist  and  assessing 
management’s sensitivity analysis on key assumptions;

assessing  management’s  forecasts  with  regards  to  its 
compliance with the requirements of IAS 36 ‘Impairment 
of Assets’;

•  performing  walkthroughs 
effectiveness of controls; and

to  assess 

the  design 

• 

assessing  the  accuracy  and  sufficiency  of  financial 
statement disclosures in respect of goodwill.

Relevant disclosures in the Annual Report and  
Accounts 2021

•  Financial statements: Note 12, Goodwill

Our results

Our audit work did not identify any material misstatements 
in  the  valuation  of  goodwill  relating  to  the  medical  and 
industrial imaging division.

Key Audit Matter – Group 

How our scope addressed the matter – Group

Risk 3 – Accuracy of goodwill and intangibles arising on 
business combination

In  responding  to  the  key  audit  matter,  we  performed  the 
following audit procedures:

We identified the accuracy of goodwill and intangibles arising 
on  business  combinations  as  one  of  the  most  significant 
assessed risks of material misstatement due to error.

During 2021 the group acquired a majority share of Magnetica 
Limited. As a result of the business combination goodwill of 
£324k and intangible assets of £3,119k have been recognised 
in the consolidated balance sheet. 

• 

the 

inspecting 
legal  agreements  and  assessing 
management’s accounting for the business combination 
to  ensure  it  was  completed  in  accordance  with  the 
significant terms of the agreements;

•  obtaining  management’s  valuation  workings  and  in 
conjunction  with  our  internal  experts  assessing  for 
compliance with IAS 38 ‘Intangible Assets’ and IFRS 3 
‘Business Combinations’;

35

Independent Auditor’s Report to the  
Members of Avingtrans plc (Continued)

Management  have  been  required  to  make  significant 
estimations  relating  to  the  business  combination,  such 
as  the  calculations  relating  to  the  fair  values  of  the 
consideration  and  acquired  intangibles  which  have  been 
based  on  discounted  cash  flow  and  replacement  cost 
methods of valuation respectively. These calculations require 
management estimates which are susceptible to management 
bias, thus increasing the risk associated with the recording of 
transaction in the financial statements.  

•  obtaining  and  challenging  management’s  assumptions 
in determining the fair value of the assets acquired and 
the inputs used in valuing the intangible assets recorded, 
including the use of internal experts to assist in assessing 
the fair value of consideration and assets acquired; 

• 

• 

selecting  a  sample  of  intangibles  recognised  on  the 
business  combination  and  agreeing  those  selected  to 
corroborating  evidence  and  checking  recognition  is  in 
compliance with IAS 38 ‘Intangible Assets’; and

assessing  the  accuracy  and  sufficiency  of  financial 
statement  disclosures 
in  respect  of  goodwill  and 
intangible assets arising on business combinations.

Relevant disclosures in the Annual Report and  
Accounts 2021

•  Financial statements: Note 35, Acquisitions and disposals

•  Strategic Report: Strategic Risk C PIE Strategy mergers, 

acquisitions and disposals 

Our results

Our audit work did not identify any material misstatements in 
the accuracy of goodwill and intangibles arising on business 
combination.

Key Audit Matter – Group 

How our scope addressed the matter – Group

Risk 4 – Accuracy of defined benefit pension liabilities

We  identified  the  accuracy  of  defined  benefit  pension 
liabilities  as  one  of  the  most  significant  assessed  risks  of 
material misstatement due to error.

Hayward Tyler Limited, a subsidiary of the group, operates 
a defined benefit pension scheme that provides benefits to a 
number of current and former employees. The scheme was 
inherited  by  the  group  on  acquisition  of  Hayward  Tyler 
Limited and subsequently closed to new participants in 2003.

The  valuation  of  the  pension  liabilities  in  accordance  with 
IAS 19 ‘Employee Benefits’ involves significant judgement 
and is subject to complex actuarial assumptions. 

There is also an increased risk of significant movements in 
the pension scheme position at the year end as a result of the 
economic impact of Covid-19.  

Relevant disclosures in the Annual Report and  
Accounts 2021

•  Financial  statements:  Note  28,  Pensions,  and  other 

employee obligations

•  Strategic Report: Strategic Risk K Pension Scheme

In  responding  to  the  key  audit  matter,  we  performed  the 
following audit procedures:

•  performing a walkthrough of management’s process and 
methodology used for accounting for the defined benefit 
pension scheme and assessing the design effectiveness of 
key controls;

•  using  an  auditor’s  expert  to  challenge  the  assumptions 
used  by  the  actuary  in  calculating  the  pension  scheme 
liability;

• 

• 

testing the accuracy of  data used by the actuary for the 
purpose of calculating the scheme liabilities by selecting 
a sample of employees and agreeing key member data to 
source records; and

assessing  the  accuracy  and  sufficiency  of  financial 
statement  disclosures  in  respect  of  pension  scheme 
liabilities.

Our results

Our audit work did not identify any material misstatements in 
the accuracy of defined benefit pension liabilities.  

36

Independent Auditor’s Report to the  
Members of Avingtrans plc (Continued)

Key Audit Matter – Group 

Risk 5 – Going Concern

We identified Going Concern as one of the most significant 
assessed risks of material misstatement.

Covid-19  is  amongst  the  most  significant  economic  events 
currently faced in the UK and continues to lead to uncertainty 
in the UK economy. This event could adversely impact the 
future  trading  performance  of  the  group  and  the  parent 
company  and  as  such  increases  the  extent  of  judgement 
and  estimation  uncertainty  associated  with  management’s 
decision  to  adopt  the  going  concern  basis  of  accounting  in 
the preparation of the financial statements.  

Relevant disclosures in the Annual Report and  
Accounts 2021

•  Report of the Directors: Page 21, Going Concern

How our scope addressed the matter – Group

In  responding  to  the  key  audit  matter,  we  performed  the 
following audit procedures:

• 

In responding to the key audit matter, we performed the 
following audit procedures:

•  obtaining  and  challenging  management’s  assessment, 
as supported by their forecasts and other information to 
understand management’s basis for determining that the 
entity remains a going concern, which cover the period 
to  31  May  2023.  This  included  the  consideration  of 
management’s  scenario  planning  and  the  inherent  risks 
associated  with  the  group’s  and  the  parent  company’s 
assumptions in relation to Brexit and Covid-19; 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

assessing  the  accuracy  of  management’s  forecasts  by 
comparing the accuracy of actual financial performance 
to the forecast information;

considering the severity and plausibility, in light of our 
knowledge of the business, of management’s sensitivity 
analysis for downside scenarios;  

corroborating  the  opening  net  cash  position  within 
management’s forecast to supporting evidence;

the  appropriateness  and 

assessing 
robustness  of 
management’s forecasts by performing audit sensitivities 
based on a range of scenarios; 

evaluating  the  assumptions  applied  in  the  cash  flow 
forecasts,  using  our  internal  specialists,  to  assist  in  the 
assessment of the cash flow forecasts; and  

assessing  the  accuracy  and  sufficiency  of  the  financial 
statement  disclosures 
the  basis  of 
preparation  of  the  financial  statements  and  assessing 
the  appropriateness  of  the  use  of  the  going  concern  in 
preparing the financial statements.

concerning 

Our results

Our  audit  work  did  not  identify  any  material  uncertainties 
relating  to  events  or  conditions  that,  individually  or 
collectively,  may  cast  significant  doubt  on  the  groups  and 
parent’s  ability  to  continue  as  a  going  concern  for  at  least 
twelve  months  from  when  the  financial  statements  are 
authorised for issue.

37

 
Independent Auditor’s Report to the  
Members of Avingtrans plc (Continued)

Our application of materiality

We  apply  the  concept  of  materiality  both  in  planning  and  performing  the  audit,  and  in  evaluating  the  effect  of  identified 
misstatements on the audit and of uncorrected misstatements, if any, on the financial statements and in forming the opinion in 
the auditor’s report.

Materiality was determined as follows:

Materiality Measure

Group

Parent company

Materiality for financial 
statements as a whole

We  define  materiality  as  the  magnitude  of  misstatement  in  the  financial  statements  that, 
individually or in the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to influence the economic 
decisions of the users of these financial statements. We use materiality in determining the 
nature, timing and extent of our audit work.

Materiality threshold

£983,000  which  represents  1%  of  the 
group’s revenue. 

£397,000  which  represents  0.5%  of  the 
parent company’s total assets. 

Significant judgements 
made by auditor 
in determining the 
materiality

In  determining  materiality,  we  made  the 
following significant judgements:

In  determining  materiality,  we  made  the 
following significant judgements:

•  The benchmark is considered the 

most appropriate because the parent 
company is a holding company and has 
no revenue. 

Materiality  for  the  current  year  is  higher 
than  the  level  that  we  determined  for  the 
year  ended  31  May  2020  to  reflect  the 
parent  company’s  increased  total  assets  in 
the current year.

•  The benchmark is considered the most 
appropriate due to revenue being a key 
driver of the business and is monitored 
by management and the directors. As 
part of our assessment, we considered 
the use of earnings before tax however, 
due to significant fluctuations in the 
group’s earnings before tax this was not 
deemed to be appropriate.

•  We also referred to key performance 

indicators raised in the annual report on 
page 8 reflecting the use of revenue as a 
key driver for the group. 

•  The percentage of 1% was applied 

based on the continuing uncertainties in 
the macro-economic environment and 
the group being listed on AIM. 

Materiality for the current year is lower than 
the  level  that  we  determined  for  the  year 
ended 31 May 2020 to reflect a reduction in 
group revenue.

Performance materiality 
used to drive the extent 
of our testing

We set performance materiality at an amount less than materiality for the financial statements 
as  a  whole  to  reduce  to  an  appropriately  low  level  the  probability  that  the  aggregate  of 
uncorrected and undetected misstatements exceeds materiality for the financial statements 
as a whole.

Performance materiality 
threshold

£688,100  which 
statement materiality.

is  70%  of  financial 

£277,900  which 
statement materiality.

is  70%  of  financial 

Significant judgements 
made by auditor 
in determining the 
performance materiality

In determining materiality, we made the following significant judgement: 

•  Our experience with auditing the financial statements of the group and parent company 
in previous years – based on the control environment and the number of identified 
misstatements in the prior year audit.

38

Independent Auditor’s Report to the  
Members of Avingtrans plc (Continued)

Materiality Measure

Group

Parent company

Specific materiality

We determine specific materiality for one or more particular classes of transactions, account 
balances or disclosures for which misstatements of lesser amounts than materiality for the 
financial  statements  as  a  whole  could  reasonably  be  expected  to  influence  the  economic 
decisions of users taken on the basis of the financial statements.

Specific materiality

We  determined  a  lower  level  of  specific 
materiality for directors’ remuneration and 
related party transactions.

We  determined  a  lower  level  of  specific 
materiality for directors’ remuneration and 
related party transactions.

Communication of 
misstatements to the 
audit committee

Threshold for 
communication

We determine a threshold for reporting unadjusted differences to the audit committee.

£49,150  and  misstatements  below  that 
in  our  view,  warrant 
threshold 
reporting on qualitative grounds.

that, 

£19,850  and  misstatements  below  that 
in  our  view,  warrant 
threshold 
reporting on qualitative grounds.

that, 

The graph below illustrates how performance materiality interacts with our overall materiality and the tolerance for potential 
uncorrected misstatements.

Overall materiality – Group 

Overall materiality – Parent company

Group
Revenue
£98,252,000

PM
£688,100,
70%

FSM
£983,000
1%

TFPUM
£294,900
30%

Total Assets
£79,312,000

PM
£277,900,
70%

FSM
£397,000
0.5%

TFPUM
£119,100
30%

FSM: Financial statements materiality, PM: Performance materiality, TFPUM: Tolerance for potential uncorrected misstatements

An overview of the scope of our audit

We performed a risk-based audit that requires an understanding of the group’s and the parent company’s business and in particular 
matters related to:

Understanding the group, its components, and their environments, including group-wide controls

•  The  engagement  team  obtained  an  understanding  of  the  group  and  its  environment,  including  group-wide  controls,  and 

assessed the risk of material misstatements at a group level;

•  The group comprises of 16 trading components based across England & Wales, United States of America, China, India and 
Australia, 6 holding components, 2 property components, 1 pension administrative component and 4 dormant components. 
The group’s financial system is independent at each component however input is provided into the group wide controls by 
group management;

39

 
Independent Auditor’s Report to the  
Members of Avingtrans plc (Continued)

Identifying significant components

•  The components of the group were identified by the group engagement team based on a measure of materiality to assess the 
significance of each component and determine the planned audit response. Significance was determined as a percentage of the 
group’s total assets, revenues and profit before taxation;  

Work to be performed on the financial information of the parent and other components

•  A  full  scope  audit  approach  (audit  of  the  financial  information  of  the  components  using  component  materiality)  for  all 
significant components was determined based on their relative materiality to the group and our assessment of the audit risk. 
We evaluated the processes and controls over the financial reporting system identified as part of our risk assessment, reviewed 
the financial statement production process and addressed critical accounting matters such as those related to the key audit 
matters as identified above. We then undertook substantive testing of significant transactions and material account balances;

•  In  order  to  respond  to  the  audit  risks  identified  in  our  risk  assessment,  we  performed  a  full  scope  audit  of  the  financial 
statements of the parent company, Avingtrans plc (in the United Kingdom), and all other component entities in the United 
Kingdom as well as Hayward Tyler Inc, a company registered in the United States. We also performed substantive procedures 
on the key audit matters identified at the group level in Energy Steele and Supply Co, a company incorporated in the United 
States;

•  With the exception of going concern, the group’s key audit matters do not arise in each component. The key audit matter 
occurrence of long-term contract revenue - contracts not complete at year-end is relevant to Hayward Tyler Limited, Hayward 
Tyler  Inc,  Hayward  Tyler  Fluid  Handling  Limited,  Stainless  Metalcraft  Limited  and  Maloney  Metalcraft  Limited.  The 
accuracy of defined benefit pension liabilities is applicable to Hayward Tyler Limited only. The key audit matter relating to 
the accuracy of goodwill and intangibles arising on business combinations relates to parent company and the valuation of 
goodwill – medical and industrial imaging division relates to the group only;

•  The non-significant group components in the United States, India and China were subject to analytical procedures. Where 

necessary specified procedures were performed over material financial statement line items in these group entities;

Performance of our audit

•  Full scope audits were performed by the group audit team for thirteen components (twelve based in the UK and one based in 

the US), this represents 81% of total revenues, 78% of total assets and 85% of profit before tax;

•  Specific scope audits and specified audit procedures were performed for three components (one based in the US, one based in 
China, and one based in Australia), this represents 15% of total revenues, 14% of total assets and 13% of profit before tax;

•  We completed site visits at six UK sites. Stock counts for all UK based trading components were attended in person with stock 

counts at the two US based trading components attended virtually;

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 this regard.

Our opinion on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006 is unmodified

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit:

• 

the information given in the strategic report and the directors’ report for the financial year for which the financial 
statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and

• 

the strategic report and the directors’ report have been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.

40

Independent Auditor’s Report to the  
Members of Avingtrans plc (continued)

Matter on which we are required to report under the Companies Act 2006

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

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report 
to you if, in our opinion:

•  adequate  accounting  records  have  not  been  kept  by  the  parent  company,  or  returns  adequate  for  our  audit  have  not  been 

received from branches not visited by us; or
the parent company financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or

• 
•  certain disclosures of directors’ remuneration specified by law are not made; or
•  we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.

Responsibilities of directors for the financial statements

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 Financial Reporting Council’s 
website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor’s report.

Explanation as to what extent the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with 
our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. Owing to the 
inherent limitations of an audit, there is an unavoidable risk that material misstatements in the financial statements may not be 
detected, even though the audit is properly planned and performed in accordance with the ISAs (UK). 

The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below:

•  We obtained an understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks applicable to the parent company and the group and 
the industry in which they operate. We determined that the following laws and regulations were most significant: IFRSs, AIM 
Rules, Companies Act 2006, Tax and the QCA Code;

•  We communicated relevant laws and regulations and potential fraud risks to all engagement team members and remained alert 

to any indications of fraud or non-compliance with laws and regulations throughout the audit;

•  We enquired of management and those charged with governance, concerning the group’s policies and procedures relating to:

° 
° 

the identification, evaluation and compliance with laws and regulations; and
the detection and response to the risks of fraud;

•  We enquired of management and those charged with governance, whether they were aware of any instances of non-compliance 

with laws and regulations or whether they had any knowledge of actual, suspected or alleged fraud;

•  In addition, we concluded that there are certain specific laws and regulations that may have an effect on the determination 
of amounts and disclosures in the financial statements and those laws and regulations relating to health and safety, employee 
matters, environmental and bribery and corruptions matters;

•  We corroborated the results of our enquiries to relevant supporting documentation;
•  We  obtained  an  understanding  of  how  the  parent  company  and  the  group  is  complying  with  those  legal  and  regulatory 

41

Independent Auditor’s Report to the  
Members of Avingtrans plc (Continued)

frameworks by making inquiries of management, those responsible for legal and compliance procedures and the company 
secretary. We corroborated our inquiries through our review of board minutes and papers provided to the Audit Committee; 
•  We assessed the susceptibility of the parent company’s and group’s financial statements to material misstatement, including 

how fraud might occur. Audit procedures performed included:
° 
°  understanding how those charged with governance considered and addressed the potential for override of controls or other 

identifying and assessing the design effectiveness of controls management has in place to prevent and detect fraud; 

inappropriate influence over the financial reporting process;

°  challenging assumptions and judgments made by management in its significant accounting estimates; and 
° 

identifying and testing journal entries posted in the year which were deemed to be unusual;

•  We note our key audit matter in relation to the occurrence of long-term contract revenue relating to contracts not complete 
at year-end relates to irregularities, including fraud. Refer to key audit matters for work completed and our results from the 
procedures performed; 

•  No matters of non-compliance with laws and regulations and fraud were identified by the engagement team or communicated 

to the engagement team; and 

•  In assessing the potential risks of material misstatement, we obtained an understanding of:

° 

° 
° 

the parent company’s and group’s operations, including the nature of its revenue sources and of its objectives and strategies 
to understand the classes of transactions, account balances, expected financial statement disclosures and business risks that 
may result in risks of material misstatement;
the applicable statutory provisions; and
the parent company’s and group’s control environment, including the policies and procedures implemented to comply with 
the requirements of its regulator, the adequacy of procedures for authorisation of transactions, internal review procedures 
over the parent company’s and group’s compliance with regulatory requirements.

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the company’s members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 
2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the company’s members those matters we are required to 
state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume 
responsibility to anyone other than the company and the company’s members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for 
the opinions we have formed.

Matthew Buckingham BSc ACA
Senior Statutory Auditor
for and on behalf of Grant Thornton UK LLP
Statutory Auditor, Chartered Accountants
Birmingham
28 September 2021 

42

Principal Accounting Policies

Basis of preparation

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) 
as adopted by the European Union and those parts of the Companies Act 2006 that are relevant to companies which apply IFRS. 
The Company has elected to prepare its Parent Company financial statements in accordance with IFRS also, these are presented 
alongside the Group Disclosures throughout the accounts. As detailed in the Director’s Report the Directors continue to adopt 
the going concern basis on preparing the financial statements and accounts.

The consolidated financial statements are presented in sterling and all values are rounded the nearest thousand (£’000) except 
where otherwise indicated.

The following Standards and Interpretations, which are relevant to the Group but have not been applied during the year, were in 
issue but not yet effective, none are expected to have a material impact on the financial results:

Amendments to IAS 16

Amendments to IAS 37

Amendments to IAS 1

Framework  Pronouncement
IAS

Proceeds before intended use

IAS

IAS

IFRS

Onerous contracts – cost of 
fulfilling a contract

Classification of liabilities as 
current or non-current 

Amendments to References to 
the Conceptual Framework in 
IFRS Standards

New standards adopted

Effective date 
Financial period commencing 
on/after 1 January 2022

Financial periods commencing 
on/after 1 January 2022

Financial periods commencing 
on/after 1 January 2022

Financial periods commencing 
on/after 1 January 2022

There are no adjustments required to be made to the Company’s financial statements as a result of any new standards, amendments 
and IFRIC interpretations.  

Significant accounting policies

Basis of consolidation

The Group financial statements consolidate those of the Company and all of its subsidiary undertakings drawn up to 31 May 
2021. Subsidiaries are entities over which the Group has the rights to variable returns from its involvement with the investee 
and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the investee. The Group obtains and exercises control of its 
subsidiaries through voting rights. Employee Benefit Trusts (“EBT”) are consolidated on the basis that the parent has control as 
it bears the risks and rewards of having established the trust, thus the assets and liabilities of the EBT are included on the Group 
balance sheet and shares held by the EBT in the Company are presented as a deduction from equity.  

All intra-group transactions have been eliminated on consolidation. Unrealised gains on transactions between the Group and its 
subsidiaries are eliminated. Unrealised losses are also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of an impairment of 
the asset transferred. 

Profit or loss from discontinued operations

A discontinued operation is a component of the Group that either has been disposed of, or is classified as held for sale, and:

•  represents a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations

• 

• 

is part of a single co-ordinated plan to dispose of a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations or 

is a subsidiary acquired exclusively with a view to resale.

Profit or loss from discontinued operations, including prior year components of profit or loss, is presented in a single amount 
in the income statement. This amount, which comprises the post-tax profit or loss of discontinued operations and the post tax 
gain or loss resulting from the measurement and disposal of assets classified as held for sale, is further analysed in note 36. The 
disclosures for discontinued operations in the prior year relate to all operations that have been discontinued by the reporting date 
of the latest period presented.

43

Principal Accounting Policies

Business combinations 

Business combinations are accounted for by using the acquisition method. The acquisition method involves the recognition at 
fair value of all identifiable assets and liabilities, including contingent liabilities of the acquired business, at the acquisition date, 
regardless of whether or not they were recorded in the financial statements prior to acquisition. On initial recognition, the assets 
and liabilities are included in the consolidated balance sheet at their fair values, which are also used as the basis for subsequent 
measurement in accordance with the Group accounting policies.  

Goodwill recognised on business combinations is stated after separate recognition of identifiable intangible assets. It is calculated 
as the excess of the sum of a) the fair value of consideration transferred, b) the recognised amount of any non-controlling interest 
in the acquiree and c) the acquisition-date fair value of any existing equity interest in the acquiree, over the acquisition-date fair 
values of identifiable net assets. If the fair values of identifiable net assets exceed the sum calculated above, the excess amount 
(ie gain on a bargain purchase) is recognised in profit or loss immediately.

Acquisition costs are expensed through the income statement as incurred.

An  intangible  asset  acquired  in  a  business  combination  is  deemed  to  have  a  cost  to  the  Group  equal  to  its  fair  value  at  the 
acquisition date. The fair value of the intangible asset reflects market expectations about the probability that the future economic 
benefits embodied in the asset will flow to the Group.  

Where an intangible asset is separable, but only together with a related tangible or intangible asset, and the individual fair values 
of the assets in the group are not reliably measurable, the group of assets is recognised as a single asset separately from goodwill. 
Where the individual fair value of the complementary assets are reliably measurable, the Group recognises them as single assets 
provided the individual assets have similar useful lives.

Goodwill

Goodwill represents the future economic benefits arising from business combinations that are not individually identified and 
separately recognised. Goodwill is capitalised and reviewed annually for impairment. Goodwill is carried at cost less accumulated 
impairment losses.

There is no re instatement of goodwill that was amortised prior to transition to IFRS. Goodwill previously written off to reserves 
is not written back to the income statement on subsequent disposal.

Revenue

Contract Revenue 

The Group recognises revenue under IFRS 15. Revenue is recognised when control of the goods or services transfers to the 
customer. The Group applies the following five step framework when recognising revenue. 

Step 1: Identify the contracts with customers 
Step 2: Identify the performance obligations in the contract 
Step 3: Determine the transaction price 
Step 4: Allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract 
Step 5: Recognise revenue

At the inception of the contract, the Group assesses the goods or services that have been promised to the customer, and identifies 
as a performance obligation: 

•  a good or service (or bundle of goods or services) that is distinct; 
•  or  a  series  of  distinct  goods  or  services  that  are  substantially  the  same  and  that  have  the  same  pattern  of  transfer  to  the 

customer.

Contracts often contain a bundle of goods and services (i.e. a motor with an installation). We determine if a good or service is 
distinct where both of the following criteria are met:

• 
• 

the customer can benefit from the good or service on its own or in conjunction with other readily available resources; and 
the  entity’s  promise  to  transfer  the  good  or  service  to  the  customer  is  separately  identifiable  from  other  promises  in  the 
contract.

The criteria the Group uses to identify the performance obligations within a contract are:

• 

• 

the customer must be able to benefit from the goods or services either on its own or in combination with other resources 
available to the customer; and 
the entity’s promise to transfer the good or service to the customer is separable from other promises in the contract.

44

 
Principal Accounting Policies

Contract Revenue (continued)

The transaction price is the value that the Group expects to be entitled to from the customer and includes discounts, rebates, 
credits, price concessions, incentives, performance bonuses, penalties and liquidated damages, but is not reduced for bad debts. 
It is net of any Value Added Tax (VAT) and other sales related taxes. Variable consideration that is dependent on certain events is 
included in the transaction price when it is “highly probable” that the variable consideration will occur and it is highly probably 
no significant reversal will occur. 

Future variable revenue from long-term contracts is constrained to take account of the risk of non-recovery of resulting contract 
balances from failure to achieve the respective conditions (e.g. failure to meet a delivery date). When assessing whether variable 
consideration is constrained, management use all available information including both historical performance and the status of 
ongoing projects. Revenue is recognised over time as the product is being manufactured or a service being provided if any of the 
following criteria are met: 

•  The Group is creating a bespoke item which doesn’t have an alternative use to the Group and the entity has a right to payment 

for work completed to date including a reasonable profit. 

•  The customer controls the asset that is being created or enhanced during the manufacturing process i.e. the customer has the 

right to significantly modify and dictate how the product is built during construction. 

•  Services provided where the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits provided as the Group performs.

Judgement is made when determining if a product is bespoke and the value of revenue to recognise over time as products are being 
manufactured. To  calculate  the  amount  of  revenue  to  be  recognised  the  Group  apply  a  percentage  of  completion  method. This 
method calculates revenue by multiplying the contract revenue by the percentage of costs incurred relative to total estimated costs.

If the criteria to recognise revenue over time is not met then revenue is recognised at a point in time when the customer obtains 
control of the asset and the performance obligation is satisfied. The customer obtains control of the asset when the customer can 
direct the use of the asset and obtain the benefits from the asset. The majority of revenue across all our operating segments is 
currently recognised at a point of time, however this can vary depending on the nature of the contracts in any year.

Significant original equipment contracts can take up to 12 months to complete from the start of the manufacturing process. As 
the period of time between customer payment and performance will always be one year or less, the Group applies the practical 
expedient in IFRS 15.63 and does not adjust the promised amount of consideration for the effects of financing.

In  obtaining  contracts,  the  Group  may  incur  a  number  of  incremental  costs,  such  as  commissions  paid  to  sales  staff. As  the 
amortisation period of these costs, if capitalised, would be less than one year, the Group makes use of the practical expedient in 
IFRS 15.94 and expenses them as they incur.

A  contract  asset/liability  is  recognised  where  payment  is  received  in  arrears/advance  of  the  revenue  recognised  in  meeting 
performance obligations.

Non-contract revenue 

Factors the Group considers when determining the point in time when control of the asset has passed to the customer and revenue 
recognised include:

1.  The Group has a right to payment; 
2.  Legal title is transferred to the customer; 
3.  Physical possession of the asset has been transferred to the customer; 
4.  The customer has the significant risks and rewards of ownership; and 
5.  The customer has accepted the asset.

Control normally passes and revenue recognised when the goods are either dispatched or delivered to the customer (in accordance 
with the terms and conditions of the sale) or the installation and testing is completed.

Dilapidations

When  there  is  reasonable  certainty  of  the  cash  outflow  in  respect  of  dilapidations  this  is  provided  for  within  accruals  in  the 
financial statements. Where there is significant uncertainty in respect of the amount or timing of the payment of dilapidations, 
this is included within provisions.

Dividends

Dividends are recognised when the shareholders right to receive payment is established. Dividend distributions payable to equity 
shareholders are included in “other short term financial liabilities” when the dividends are approved in a general meeting prior to 
the balance sheet date. Interim dividends are recognised when paid.

45

Principal Accounting Policies

Exceptional items

Operating costs which are material by virtue of their size or incidence and are not expected to be recurring are disclosed as 
exceptional items. Exceptional costs comprise acquisition and restructuring costs as set out in note 4.

Non-underlying items

Non-underlying costs for the year include amortisation of acquired intangibles, share based payment charge, acquisition related 
expenses, and restructuring costs as set out in note 4.

Property, plant and equipment 

Property, plant and equipment is stated at cost, net of depreciation and any provision for impairment. Assets held under right of 
use assets are depreciated over their expected useful lives on the same basis as owned assets or, were shorter, over the term of 
the relevant lease.

Disposal of assets

The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the disposal proceeds and the carrying 
amount of the asset and is recognised in the income statement. The gain or loss arising from the sale is included in administrative 
expenses in the income statement.

Depreciation

Depreciation is calculated to write down the cost less estimated residual value of all property, plant and equipment other than 
freehold land by equal annual instalments over their estimated useful economic lives. The rates/periods generally applicable are:

Buildings 
Plant and machinery 
Equipment and motor vehicles 

2.0% – 4.0%
6.7% - 20%
12.5% - 33%

Right-of-use assets are depreciated over the shorter of the asset’s useful life and the lease term.

Material residual value estimates are updated as required, but at least annually.

Impairment testing of goodwill, other intangible assets and property, plant and equipment

For the purposes of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable cash 
flows (cash-generating units). As a result, some assets are tested individually for impairment and some are tested at cash-generating 
unit level. Goodwill is allocated to those cash-generating units that are expected to benefit from synergies of the related business 
combination and represent the lowest level within the Group at which management monitors the related cash flows.

Goodwill, other individual assets or cash-generating units that include goodwill, and those intangible assets with an indefinite 
useful life are tested for impairment at least annually. All other individual assets or cash-generating units are tested for impairment 
whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable.

An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset’s or cash-generating unit’s carrying amount exceeds its 
recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of fair value, reflecting market conditions less costs to sell, and value 
in use based on an internal discounted cash flow evaluation. Impairment losses recognised for cash-generating units, to which 
goodwill has been allocated, are credited initially to the carrying amount of goodwill. Any remaining impairment loss is charged 
pro rata to the other assets in the cash generating unit. With the exception of goodwill, all assets are subsequently reassessed 
for indications that an impairment loss previously recognised may no longer exist. Discount factors are determined individually 
for each cash generating unit and reflect current market assessments at the time value of money and asset-specific risk factors.  

If the impairment is subsequently reversed, the carrying amount, except for goodwill, is increased to the revised estimate of its 
recoverable amount but limited to the carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment been recognised.  
Impairment losses in respect of goodwill are not reversed.

Leased assets

In the prior year the Group applied IFRS 16 using the modified retrospective approach.

For  any  new  contracts  entered  into  the  Group  considers  whether  a  contract  is  or  contains  a  lease. A  lease  is  defined  as  ‘a 
contract, or part of a contract, that conveys the right to use an asset (the underlying asset) for a period of time in exchange for 
consideration’. To apply this definition the Group assesses whether the contract meets three key evaluations which are whether:

46

Principal Accounting Policies

Leased assets (continued)

• 

• 

• 

the contract contains an identified asset, which is either explicitly identified in the contract or implicitly specified by being 
identified at the time the asset is made available to the Group 
the Group has the right to obtain substantially all of the economic benefits from use of the identified asset throughout the 
period of use, considering its rights within the defined scope of the contract
the Group has the right to direct the use of the identified asset throughout the period of use. The Group assess whether it has 
the right to direct ‘how and for what purpose’ the asset is used.

Measurement and recognition of leases as a lessee

At lease commencement date, the Group recognises a right-of-use asset and a lease liability on the balance sheet. The right-of-
use asset is measured at cost, which is made up of the initial measurement of the lease liability, any initial direct costs incurred 
by the Group, an estimate of any costs to dismantle and remove the asset at the end of the lease, and any lease payments made in 
advance of the lease commencement date (net of any incentives received). 

The Group depreciates the right-of-use assets on a straight-line basis from the lease commencement date to the earlier of the 
end of the useful life of the right-of-use asset or the end of the lease term. The Group also assesses the right-of-use asset for 
impairment when such indicators exist. 

At the commencement date, the Group measures the lease liability at the present value of the lease payments unpaid at that date, 
discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease if that rate is readily available or the Group’s incremental borrowing rate. 
The incremental borrowing rate has been determined by looking at historical borrowing rates and adjusting these to reflect the 
term of the lease, economic environment, and type of asset being leased. Lease payments included in the measurement of the 
lease liability are made up of fixed payments (including in substance fixed), variable payments based on an index or rate, amounts 
expected to be payable under a residual value guarantee and payments arising from options reasonably certain to be exercised. 
On transition to IFRS 16 Leases, incremental borrowing applied to leases fell in the range of 3.6% - 5.6% depending on the 
nature and term of the lease.

Subsequent to initial measurement, the liability will be reduced for payments made and increased for interest. It is remeasured to 
reflect any reassessment or modification, or if there are changes in in-substance fixed payments. 

When the lease liability is remeasured, the corresponding adjustment is reflected in the right-of-use asset, or profit and loss if the 
right-of-use asset is already reduced to zero.

The Group has elected to account for short-term leases and leases of low-value assets using the practical expedients. Instead of 
recognising a right-of-use asset and lease liability, the payments in relation to these are recognised as an expense in profit or loss 
on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

On the statement of financial position, right-of-use assets have been included in property, plant and equipment.

Investments

Investments in subsidiary undertakings and participating interests are stated at cost less provision for impairment where necessary 
to reduce book value to recoverable amount. Cost is purchase price. 

Investment income is recognised on a received basis.

Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Costs of ordinarily interchangeable items are assigned using 
the first in, first out cost formula. Cost includes materials, direct labour and an attributable proportion of manufacturing overheads 
based on normal levels of activity. Net realisable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business less any 
applicable selling expenses.

Finance income/costs

Interest is recognised using the effective interest method, which calculates the amortised cost of a financial asset and allocates the 
interest income over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash receipts 
through the expected life of the financial asset to the net carrying amount of the financial asset.

47

Principal Accounting Policies

Taxation

Current tax is the tax currently payable based on taxable profit for the year.

Tax expense recognised in profit or loss comprises the sum of deferred tax and current tax not recognised in other comprehensive 
income or directly in equity.

Calculation  of  current  tax  is  based  on  tax  rates  and  laws  that  have  been  enacted  or  substantially  enacted  by  the  end  of  the 
reporting period.

Deferred income taxes are calculated using the liability method on temporary differences. Deferred tax is generally provided on 
the difference between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax bases. However, deferred tax is not provided on 
the initial recognition of goodwill, nor on the initial recognition of an asset or liability unless the related transaction is a business 
combination or affects tax or accounting profit. Deferred tax on temporary differences associated with shares in subsidiaries is 
not provided if the reversal of these temporary differences can be controlled by the Group and it is probable that reversal will not 
occur in the foreseeable future. In addition, tax losses available to be carried forward as well as other income tax credits to the 
Group are assessed for recognition as deferred tax assets.

Deferred tax liabilities are provided in full, with no discounting. The assessment of the probability of future taxable income in 
which deferred tax assets can be utilised is based on the Group’s latest approved budget forecast, which is adjusted for significant 
non-taxable income and expenses and specific limits to the use of any unused tax loss or credit. 

The tax rules in the numerous jurisdictions in which the Group operates are also carefully taken into consideration. If a positive 
forecast of taxable income indicates the probable use of a deferred tax asset, especially when it can be utilised without a time 
limit, that deferred tax asset is usually recognised in full. The recognition of deferred tax assets that are subject to certain legal 
or economic limits or uncertainties is assessed individually by management based on the specific facts and circumstances. All 
unused tax losses and credits have been recognised in the year as management believes that use of the deferred tax asset created 
is probable.

Changes in deferred tax assets or liabilities are recognised as a component of tax expense in the consolidated income statement, 
except where they relate to items that are charged or credited to other comprehensive income or directly to equity in which case 
the related deferred tax is also charged or credited directly to other comprehensive income or equity.

The group has accounted for research and development expenditure tax credits above operating profit.

Intangible assets

i)   Order book and customer relationships

Customer lists acquired in a business combination that qualify for separate recognition are recognised as intangible assets at 
their fair values.

The useful lives for these intangible assets are finite.

These intangible assets are amortised on a straight-line basis over the following periods:

•  Order book 
•  Customer relationships 

-  Period of order cover
-  Up to 10 years

The amortisation charge is shown within amortisation of intangibles in the income statement.

ii)  Software

Acquired computer software licences are capitalised on the basis of the costs incurred to acquire and install the specific 
software.

The useful lives for these intangible assets are finite.

Software is amortised over three years and the amortisation charge is shown within administrative expenses in the income 
statement.

iii)  Brand

Brand  is  amortised  on  a  straight  line  basis  of  between  10  and  15  years  and  the  amortisation  charge  is  shown  within 
administrative expenses in the income statement. The useful lives for these intangible assets are finite.

iv)   Internally generated development costs

Expenditure on research (or the research phase of an internal project) is recognised as an expense in the period in which it 
is incurred.

48

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal Accounting Policies

Intangible assets (continued)

Other  intangible  assets  include  capitalised  development  costs  incurred  in  the  development  of  new  products  and  process 
development. They are accounted for using the cost model whereby capitalised costs are amortised on a straight-line basis over 
their estimated useful life. Management assess the useful life of group intangible assets to be in the range of three to ten years. 

To distinguish any research-type project phase from the development phase, it is the Group’s accounting policy to require a 
detailed forecast of sales or cost savings expected to be generated by the intangible asset. The forecast is incorporated into the 
Group’s overall budget forecast as the capitalisation of development costs commences. This ensures that managerial accounting, 
impairment testing procedures and accounting for internally-generated intangible assets is based on the same data.

The Group’s management also monitors whether the recognition requirements for development costs continue to be met and an 
assessment made of its recoverability. This is necessary as the economic success of any product development is uncertain and 
may be subject to future technical problems after the time of recognition.

Costs that are directly attributable to the development phase of technology are recognised as an intangible asset, provided they 
meet the following recognition requirements:

• 
• 
• 
• 

• 

• 

completion of the intangible asset is technically feasible so that it will be available for use or sale
the Group intends to complete the intangible asset and use or sell it
the Group has the ability to use or sell the intangible asset
the intangible asset will generate probable future economic benefits.  Among other things, this requires that there is a market 
for the output from the intangible asset or for the intangible asset itself, or, if it is to be used internally, the asset will be used 
in generating such benefits
there are adequate technical, financial and other resources to complete the development and to use or sell the intangible asset, 
and
the expenditure attributable to the intangible asset during its development can be measured reliably.

For a project meeting these criteria, subsequent costs incurred will be capitalised until the product or process is available for use, 
at which point amortisation commences on a straight line basis over the product’s estimated useful life, generally 3 – 8 years. 
The useful lives for these intangible assets are finite. Where businesses are in start up or have a specific contract covering the 
amortisation then a period longer than 8 years could be used. Amortisation costs are shown within administrative expenses.

Development costs not meeting the criteria for capitalisation are expensed as incurred.

The cost of internally generated development costs comprises all directly attributable costs necessary to create, produce, and 
prepare the asset to be capable of operating in the manner intended by management. Directly attributable costs include employee 
costs incurred on project development along with an appropriate portion of relevant overheads.  

Borrowing costs

Borrowing costs primarily comprise interest on the Group’s borrowings. Borrowing costs that are directly attributable to the 
acquisition, construction or production of a qualifying asset, are capitalised as part of the cost of that asset when it is probable 
that they will result in future economic benefits and the costs can be measured reliably. All other borrowing costs are expensed 
in the period in which they are incurred and reported within “finance costs”. No general borrowing costs have been capitalised 
in relation to qualifying assets.

Equity

Share capital represents the nominal value of shares that have been issued.

When the Company purchases its own shares, the consideration is deducted from equity (attributable to the Company’s equity 
holders until the shares are either cancelled or issued) as an investment in own shares reserve. Such shares are held at cost. 

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

Capital redemption reserve represents the nominal value of shares cancelled.

Foreign currency translation differences arising on the translation of the Group’s foreign entities are included in the translation 
reserve.

Merger reserve was created on the acquisition of Hayward Tyler Group PLC.

Other reserves were created on redemption of preference shares. The gain on disposal of non-controlling interest in subsidiary 
company  regarding  the  Magnetica  acquisition  is  also  included  here.  Retained  earnings  include  all  current  and  prior  period 
retained profits. It also includes charges related to share-based employee remuneration.

All transactions with owners of the parent are recorded separately within equity.

49

Principal Accounting Policies

Financial assets and liabilities

Recognition and derecognition

Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognised when the Group becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the 
financial instrument.

Financial  assets  are  derecognised  when  the  contractual  rights  to  the  cash  flows  from  the  financial  asset  expire,  or  when  the 
financial asset and substantially all the risks and rewards are transferred.

A financial liability is derecognised when it is extinguished, discharged, cancelled or expires.

Classification and initial measurement of financial assets

Except for those trade receivables that do not contain a significant financing component and are measured at the transaction 
price in accordance with IFRS 15, all financial assets are initially measured at fair value adjusted for transaction costs (where 
applicable). 

Financial assets, other than those designated and effective as hedging instruments, are classified into the following categories: 

•   amortised cost
•   fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL)
•   fair value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI).

In the periods presented the Group does not have any financial assets categorised as FVOCI. The classification is determined by 
both:

• 
• 

the entity’s business model for managing the financial asset
the contractual cash flow characteristics of the financial asset.

All income and expenses relating to financial assets that are recognised in profit or loss are presented within finance costs, finance 
income or other financial items, except for impairment of trade receivables which is presented separately in the income statement.

Subsequent measurement of financial assets

Financial assets at amortised cost

Financial assets are measured at amortised cost if the assets meet the following conditions (and are not designated as FVTPL):

• 
• 

they are held within a business model whose objective is to hold the financial assets and collect its contractual cash flows
the contractual terms of the financial assets give rise to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the 
principal amount outstanding

After initial recognition, these are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Discounting is omitted where the effect of discounting is immaterial. The Group’s cash and cash equivalents, trade and most 
other receivables fall into this category.

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL)

Financial  assets  that  are  held  within  a  different  business  model  other  than  ‘hold  to  collect’  or  ‘hold  to  collect  and  sell’  are 
categorised at fair value through profit and loss. Further, irrespective of business model, financial assets whose contractual cash 
flows are not solely payments of principal and interest are accounted for at FVTPL. All derivative financial instruments fall into 
this category.

Impairment of financial assets

IFRS 9 impairment requirements use more forward-looking information to recognise expected credit losses – the ‘expected credit 
loss (ECL) model’. This replaced the ‘incurred loss model’ in IAS 39. Instruments within the scope of the new requirements 
included loans and other debt-type financial assets measured at amortised cost and FVOCI, trade receivables, contract assets 
recognised and measured under IFRS 15 and loan commitments and some financial guarantee contracts (for the issuer) that are 
not measured at fair value through profit or loss.

Recognition of credit losses is no longer dependent on the Group first identifying a credit loss event. Instead, the Group considers 
a broader range of information when assessing credit risk and measuring expected credit losses, including past events, current 
conditions, reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the expected collectability of the future cash flows of the instrument.

In applying this forward-looking approach, a distinction is made between:

•   financial instruments that have not deteriorated significantly in credit quality since initial recognition or that have low credit 

risk (‘Stage 1’) and

50

Principal Accounting Policies

Financial assets and liabilities (continued)

Impairment of financial assets (continued)

•  financial instruments that have deteriorated significantly in credit quality since initial recognition and whose credit risk is not 

low (‘Stage 2’).

‘Stage 3’ would cover financial assets that have objective evidence of impairment at the reporting date. 

‘12-month expected credit losses’ are recognised for the first category while ‘lifetime expected credit losses’ are recognised for 
the second category.

Measurement of the expected credit losses is determined by a probability-weighted estimate of credit losses over the expected 
life of the financial instrument.

Trade and other receivables and contract assets

The Group makes use of a simplified approach in accounting for trade and other receivables as well as contract assets and records 
the loss allowance as lifetime expected credit losses. These are the expected shortfalls in contractual cash flows, considering the 
potential for default at any point during the life of the financial instrument. The Group uses its historical experience, external 
indicators and forward-looking information to calculate the expected credit losses using a provision matrix. 

The  Group  assesses  impairment  of  trade  receivables  on  a  collective  basis  as  they  possess  shared  credit  risk  characteristics 
they have been grouped based on the days past due. Refer to Note 24 Financial Instruments for a detailed analysis of how the 
impairment requirements of IFRS 9 are applied.

Classification and measurement of financial liabilities

The Group’s financial liabilities include trade payables, other payables, borrowings and lease liabilities. The Group has derivative 
financial instruments which can be either an asset or liability depending on the value of the underlying asset.

Financial liabilities are initially measured at fair value, and, where applicable, adjusted for transaction costs unless the Group 
designated a financial liability at fair value through profit or loss.

Subsequently, financial liabilities are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method except for derivatives and 
financial liabilities designated at FVTPL, which are carried subsequently at fair value with gains or losses recognised in profit or 
loss (other than derivative financial instruments that are designated and effective as hedging instruments).

All interest-related charges and, if applicable, changes in an instrument’s fair value that are reported in profit or loss are included 
within finance costs or finance income.

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash in hand, deposits held on call with banks and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are 
shown within borrowings in current liabilities on the balance sheet. Cash equivalents are short term, highly liquid investments 
that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and which are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value. 

Post-employment benefits, short-term employee benefits and share-based employee remuneration

Post employee benefits

Hayward Tyler Group provides post-employment benefits through a defined benefit plan. This plan formed part of the business 
combination.

The Group provides post-employment benefits through defined benefit plans as well as various defined contribution plans.

A defined contribution plan is a pension plan under which the Group pays fixed contributions into an independent entity. The 
Group  has  no  legal  or  constructive  obligations  to  pay  further  contributions  after  its  payment  of  the  fixed  contribution.  The 
contributions are recognised as an employee benefit expense when they are due.

Plans that do not meet the definition of a defined contribution plan are defined benefit plans. Under the Group’s defined benefit 
plans,  the  amount  of  pension  benefit  that  an  employee  will  receive  on  retirement  is  defined  by  reference  to  the  employee’s 
length of service and final salary. The legal obligation for any benefits remains with the Group, even if plan assets for funding 
the defined benefit plan have been set aside. Plan assets may include assets specifically designated to a long-term benefit fund as 
well as qualifying insurance policies. 

51

Principal Accounting Policies

Post-employment benefits, short-term employee benefits and share-based employee remuneration 
(continued)

The  asset  recognised  in  the  statement  of  financial  position  for  defined  benefit  plans  is  the  present  value  of  the  fair  value  of 
plan assets less the defined benefit obligation (DBO) at the reporting date. The net surplus at the end of the year is £1.3 million 
(2020: £1.6 million) which is deemed recoverable and therefore recognised in full. The unconditional right condition in IFRIC14 
is satisfied as the Company has an unconditional right to a refund of surplus after the last pensioner dies, assuming the Plan 
continues indefinitely. 

Management estimates the DBO annually with the assistance of independent actuaries. This is based on standard rates of inflation, 
salary growth rate and mortality. Discount factors are determined close to each year-end by reference to high quality corporate 
bonds that are denominated in the currency in which the benefits will be paid and that have terms to maturity approximating the 
terms of the related pension liability. 

Service cost on the Group’s defined benefit plan is included in employee benefits expense. Employee contributions, all of which 
are independent of the number of years of service, are treated as a reduction of service cost. Net interest expense on the net 
defined benefit liability is included in finance costs. Gains and losses resulting from remeasurements of the net defined benefit 
liability are included in other comprehensive income.

Short-term benefits

Short-term  employee  benefits,  including  holiday  entitlement,  are  current  liabilities  included  in  pension  and  other  employee 
obligations, measured at the undiscounted amount that the Group expects to pay as a result of the unused entitlement.

Share-based employee remuneration

The Group operates equity-settled share-based remuneration plans for its key management personnel. None of the Group’s plans 
are cash-settled.

All goods and services received in exchange for the grant of any share-based payment are measured at their fair values.

Where employees are rewarded using share-based payments, the fair value of employees’ services is determined indirectly by 
reference to the fair value of the equity instruments granted. This fair value is appraised at the grant date and excludes the impact 
of non-market vesting conditions.

All share-based remuneration is ultimately recognised as an expense in the income statement with a corresponding credit to 
share-based  payment  reserve.  If  vesting  periods  or  other  vesting  conditions  apply,  the  expense  is  allocated  over  the  vesting 
period, based on the best available estimate of the number of share options expected to vest.

Non-market vesting conditions are included in assumptions about the number of options that are expected to become exercisable. 
Estimates  are  subsequently  revised  if  there  is  any  indication  that  the  number  of  share  options  expected  to  vest  differs  from 
previous  estimates. Any  adjustment  to  cumulative  share-based  compensation  resulting  from  a  revision  is  recognised  in  the 
current period. 

The number of vested options ultimately exercised by holders does not impact the expense recorded in any period.

Upon exercise of share options, the proceeds received, net of any directly attributable transaction costs, are allocated to share 
capital up to the nominal (or par) value of the shares issued with any excess being recorded as share premium.

Foreign currencies

The individual Financial Statements of each Group entity are presented in the currency in the primary economic environment 
of which the entity operates (its functional currency). For the purposes of the consolidated financial statements, the results and 
financial position are presented in sterling (£). Transactions in foreign currencies are translated at the exchange rate ruling at 
the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities in foreign currencies are translated at the rates of exchange ruling at 
the balance sheet date. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the remeasurement of monetary items denominated in 
foreign currency at year-end exchange rates are recognised in profit or loss. Non-monetary items that are measured at historical 
cost in a foreign currency are translated at the exchange rate at the date of the transaction. 

Any exchange differences arising on the settlement of monetary items or on translating monetary items at rates different from 
those at which they were initially recorded are recognised in profit or loss in the period in which they arise.  Exchange differences 
on non-monetary items are recognised in other comprehensive income to the extent that they relate to a gain or loss on that 
non-monetary item recognised in other comprehensive income, otherwise such gains and losses are recognised in profit or loss.

52

Principal Accounting Policies

Foreign currencies (continued)

The  assets  and  liabilities  in  the  financial  statements  of  foreign  subsidiaries  and  related  goodwill  are  translated  at  the  rate  of 
exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. Income and expenses are translated at a rate which is considered to be approximate 
to the rate prevailing at the date of the transaction. The exchange differences arising from the retranslation of the opening net 
investment in subsidiaries are recognised in other comprehensive income and accumulated in the “translation reserve” in equity. 
On disposal of a foreign operation the cumulative translation differences are reclassified from equity to profit or loss when the 
gain or loss is recognised.

Segmental reporting

A segment is a distinguishable component of the Group that is engaged in business activities from which it may earn revenues 
and incur expenses whose operating results are regularly reviewed by the Chief Executive, who is considered to be the chief 
operating  decision  maker.  The  Chief  Executive  focuses  on  information  by  operating  division  and  the  Group  has  therefore 
identified reportable operating segments comprising Energy-EPM, Energy-PRSE and Medical-MII.

The Chief Executive also reviews information by geographical area and whilst this is considered supplementary to the operating 
information, it is disclosed in the financial statements to provide additional information. 

Government grants

The  group  receives  government  grants  for  research  and  development,  plus  has  received  support  throughout  the  coronavirus 
epidemic in the UK from the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, and US Cares Act. 

A government grant is recognised only when there is reasonable assurance that (a) the Group will comply with any conditions 
attached to the grant and (b) the grant will be received.

Government grants in respect of capital expenditure are credited to a deferred income account and are released to the income 
statement by equal annual instalments over the expected useful lives of the relevant assets. Government grants in respect of 
assistance of a revenue nature are credited to the income statement in the same period as the related expenditure.

Hayward  Tyler  Limited  (“HTL”),  based  in  Luton,  UK,  was  awarded  a  £3.5  million  grant  from  the  Regional  Growth  Fund 
(“RGF”) pre-acquisition by AVG. The deferred income liability is reduced by grant income that is recognised in the consolidated 
income statement. This grant income is included in operating charges as a deduction from related research, development and 
training expenses.

Provisions and contingent liabilities 

Provisions are recognised when present obligations as a result of a past event will probably lead to an outflow of economic 
resources from the Group and amounts can be estimated reliably. A present obligation arises from the presence of a legal or 
constructive commitment that has resulted from past events. Restructuring provisions are recognised only if a detailed formal 
plan for the restructuring has been developed and implemented, or management has announced the plan’s main features to those 
affected by it. 

Provisions are measured at the estimated expenditure required to settle the present obligation, based on the most reliable evidence 
available at the reporting date, including the risks and uncertainties associated with the present obligation. Where there are a 
number of similar obligations, the likelihood that an outflow will be required in settlement is determined by considering the class 
of obligations as a whole. In those cases where the possible outflow of economic resources as a result of present obligations is 
considered improbable or remote, no liability is recognised, unless it was assumed in the course of a business combination. 

Critical accounting judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty

When  preparing  the  financial statements, management makes  a  number  of  judgements,  estimates and  assumptions  about  the 
recognition and measurement of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. 

Significant management judgements

The  are  no  significant  judgements  made  by  management  in  applying  the  accounting  policies  of  the  Group  in  the  financial 
statements.

Estimation uncertainty

Information about estimates and assumptions that may have the most significant effect on recognition and measurement of assets, 
liabilities, income and expenses is provided below. Actual results may be substantially different.

53

Principal Accounting Policies

Critical accounting judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty (continued)

Revenue and margin on contracts

For sales of goods where we judge revenue should be recognised over time, the Group applies the percentage of completion 
method. This  method  calculates  revenue  by  multiplying  the  contract  revenue  by  the  percentage  of  costs  incurred  relative  to 
total estimated costs. Management assesses contract revenue using the expected value method which is based on the range of 
possible outcomes and the probabilities of each outcome. Estimates of the total contract cost take into consideration historical 
costs on similar products and services, which is then updated to take into consideration changes to supplier prices,  movements 
in exchange rates, and managements latest view on remaining work required to complete a contract.

Fair value of consideration

During the period, management acquired 58.1% shareholding in Magnetica Limited in exchange for the transfer of its 98.5% 
owned investment in Scientific Magnetics Limited which became a subsidiary of Magnetica post acquisition.

IFRS 3 Business Combinations requires that consideration is valued at its fair value. We have determined the fair value through 
a discounted cash flow calculation based on the latest Scientific Magnetics Limited forecasts and those of its wholly owned 
subsidiary, Tecmag Inc.

Management have prepared detailed cash flow forecasts for the 2 year period post-acquisition, and applied longer-term growth 
assumptions. An appropriate discount rate has been determined using the capital asset pricing model, which calculates a weighted 
average costs of capital by comparison to similar quoted businesses.

Fair value of acquired intangibles

Magnetica have developed MRI technologies relating to asymmetric magnets, gradient coils and RF coils. The Group acquired 
Magnetica with the purpose of developing a compact MRI systems, with components manufactured by Magnetica plus other 
Group entities. 

Given the product is only partially developed, there are no historical revenue streams to base an income-based valuation on, 
consequently, we have chosen to value based on current replacement cost. Determining the current replacement cost is largely 
based on historical development costs incurred by Magnetica and updated to current value.

Deferred tax assets

Management have recognised a deferred tax asset based on expected losses expected to be utilised over the next 5 year period. 
The assessment of this utilisation is based on the Group’s latest approved budget forecast, which is adjusted for significant non-
taxable income and expenses and specific limits to the use of any unused tax loss or credit. Further details relating to deferred 
tax assets are in note 25.

Impairment of goodwill

Determining whether goodwill is impaired requires an estimation of the value in use of the cash-generating units to which the 
goodwill has been allocated. The value in use calculation requires the entity to estimate the future cash flows expected to arise 
from the cash-generating unit and to apply a suitable discount rate in order to calculate present value. The assumptions and 
sensitivities applied by management in determining whether there is any impairment of goodwill are set out in note 12. 

Recoverability of contract assets and trade receivables

Management estimate the recoverable amount of balances relating to ongoing contracts that are incomplete at the date of approval 
of the financial statements. In particular in relation to claims the Directors prepare a best estimate of the amount expected to be 
recovered at the balance sheet date by reference to ongoing negotiations with customers. Management periodically revisit the 
claim and their assessment of the amount expected to be recovered. Contract assets and trade receivables are detailed in note 17. 
The value of contract assets at 31 May 2021 was £20.5m. Intercompany balances and investments held by the Company have 
been reviewed by Management by reviewing future cash flows and despite Covid 19 are still considered to be recoverable.

Warranties 

The amount recognised for warranties for which customers are covered for the cost of repairs is estimated based on management’s 
past experience, current knowledge and future expectation that defects may arise. The value of warranty provisions at 31 May 
2021 was £1.5 million (note 19).

54

Principal Accounting Policies

Critical accounting judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty (continued)

Defined benefit pension liability

Management estimates the defined benefit pension liability annually with the assistance of independent actuaries; however, the 
actual outcome may vary due to estimation uncertainties. The estimate of its defined benefit pension gross liability of £13.1 
million (2020: £13.5 million) is based on standard rates of inflation and mortality. The estimate does not include anticipation of 
future salary increases as there are no members with benefits related to future salary progression. Discount factors are determined 
close to each period end by reference to high quality corporate bonds that are denominated in the currency in which the benefits 
will be paid and that have terms to maturity approximating to the terms of the related pension liability. Estimation uncertainties 
exist particularly with regard to medical cost trends, which may vary significantly in future appraisals of the Group’s defined 
benefit pension obligations. The value of the defined benefit pension asset at 31 May 2021 was £1.3 million (2020: £1.6million). 
Further details of the pension scheme are in note 28.

55

Consolidated Income Statement

For the year ended 31 May 2021

Revenue 

Cost of sales 

Gross profit 

Distribution costs 
Administrative expenses 

Operating profit before amortisation of acquired intangibles, other  
non-underlying items and exceptional items 

Amortisation of acquired intangibles 
Share based payment 
Acquisition costs 
Restructuring costs 
Other exceptional 

Operating profit 

Finance income 
Finance costs 

Profit before taxation 
Taxation 

Profit after taxation from continuing operations  

Profit after taxation from discontinued operations 

Profit for the financial year  

Profit is attributable to: 
Owners of Avingtrans PLC 

Non-controlling interest 

Total  

Earnings per share: 
From continuing operations 
– Basic 
– Diluted 
From continuing and discontinuing operations 
– Basic 
– Diluted 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME 

Profit for the year 
Items that will not be subsequently be reclassified to profit or loss  
Remeasurement of defined benefit liability (note 28) 
Income tax relating to items not reclassified 
Items that may/will subsequently be reclassified to profit or loss  
Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations 

Total comprehensive income for the year attributable to equity shareholders 

The principal accounting policies and notes on pages 43 to 96 form part of these financial statements.

56

Note 

2021 
£’000 

2020
£’000

2 

98,516 

91,961

(68,586) 

(67,340)

29,930 

24,621

(3,024) 
(20,821) 

(3,392)
(20,625)

13 
27 
35 

2 

5 
6 

3 
9 

35 

36 

11 
11 

11 
11 

8,188 

(1,008) 
(133) 
(234) 
(771) 
43 –

6,085 

73 
(711) 

5,447 
(383) 

5,064 

22,136 

27,200 

27,366 

(166) –

27,200 

15.9p 
15.6p 

85.4p 
83.6p 

2021 
£’000 

27,200 

(662) 
49 

(1,162) 

25,425 

3,249

(2,004)
(103)
(294)
(244)

60

38
(711)

(69)
(28)

(97)

1,483

1,386

1,386

1,386

(0.3)p
(0.3)p

4.4p
4.3p

2020
£’000

1,386

58
(43)

120

1,521

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Balance Sheet

For the year ended 31 May 2021 

Note 

Non current assets 
Goodwill 
Other intangible assets 
Property, plant and equipment 
Deferred tax 
Pension and other employee obligations 

Current assets 
Inventories 
Trade and other receivables: falling due within one year 
Trade and other receivables: falling due after one year 
Current tax asset 
Cash and cash equivalents 

Total assets 

Current liabilities 
Trade and other payables 
Lease liabilities 
Borrowings 
Current tax liabilities 
Provisions 
Derivatives 

Total current liabilities 

Non-current liabilities 
Borrowings 
Lease liabilities 
Deferred tax 
Contingent consideration 
Other creditors 

Total non-current liabilities 

Total liabilities 

Net assets 

Equity 
Share capital 
Share premium account 
Capital redemption reserve 
Translation reserve 
Merger reserve 
Other reserves 
Investment in own shares 
Retained earnings 

Total equity attributable to equity holders of the parent 

Non-controlling interest 

Total equity 

12 
13 
14 
25 
28 

16 
17 
17 
9 
18 

20 
23 
22 
9 
19 
22 

22 
23 
25 

21 

26 

34 

2021  
£’000  

21,222 
14,464 
25,281 
1,767 
1,284 

64,018 

10,076 
36,010 
1,798 –
633 
30,078 

2020
£’000

23,459
13,834
34,445
1,241
1,646

74,625

13,390
36,910

1,221
5,088

78,595 
142,613 

56,609
131,234  

(26,587) 
(1,310) 
(2,160) 
(672) 
(1,742) 
(144) 

(30,308)
(2,125)
(6,005)
(70)
(5,514)
(36)

(32,615) 

(44,058)

(3,368) 
(2,965) 
(3,456) 
– 
(1,246) 

(3,965)
(9,340)
(2,460)
(256)
(1,247)

(11,035) 

(17,268)

(43,650) 

(61,326)

98,963 

69,908

1,599 
15,347 
1,299 
(732) 
28,949 
1,457 
(4,235) 
53,614 

97,298 

1,665 

98,963 

1,588
14,970
1,299
430
28,949
180
(4,235)
26,727

69,908

–

69,908

The principal accounting policies and notes on pages 43 to 96 form part of these financial statements.

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors and authorised for issue on 28 September 2021 and signed on 
its behalf by:

S M King, Director. Company number: 1968354 

57

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Company Balance Sheet 

For the year ended 31 May 2021 

Note 

Non current assets 
Investments 

Current assets 

Trade and other receivables: amounts falling due within one year 
Current tax asset 
Cash at bank and in hand 

Total assets 

Current liabilities 
Trade and other payables 
Borrowings 

Total current liabilities 

Non-current liabilities 
Borrowings 
Contingent consideration 

Total non-current liabilities 

Total liabilities 

Net assets 

Capital and reserves 
Share capital 
Share premium account 
Capital redemption reserve 
Merger reserve 
Other reserves 
Profit and loss account 

Total equity attributable to equity holders of the parent 

15 

17 

18 

20 
22 

22 

26 

2021  
£’000  

40,151 

40,151 

12,745 
– –
24,557 

37,302 
77,453 

(575) 
(181) 

(756) 

(249) 
– 

(249) 

2020
£’000

35,939

35,939

31,804

1,658

33,462
69,401

(477)
(181)

(658)

(370)
(256)

(626)

(1,005) 

(1,284)

76,448 

68,117

1,599 
15,347 
1,299 
28,949 
237 
29,017 

76,448 

1,588
14,970
1,299
28,949
180
21,131

68,117

The parent company has taken the exemption conferred by S.408 Companies Act 2006 not to publish the profit and loss account 
of the parent company with these consolidated accounts. The loss dealt with in the parent company’s financial statements was 
£2,246k (2020: loss of £649k).

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors and authorised for issue on 28 September 2021 signed on its 
behalf by:

S M King
Director 
Company number: 01968354

The principal accounting policies and notes on pages 43 to 96 form part of these financial statements.

58

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity

For the year ended 31 May 2021 

  Capital 
Share  redemp- 

Invest- 
  ment in 

Share   premium 
capital  account 
£’000 
£’000 

tion  Merger 
reserve 
£’000 

reserve 
£’000 

  Trans- 
lation 
Other 
reserve  reserves 
£’000 
£’000 

own  Retained 

of the  
shares  earnings  Group 
£’000 
£’000 
£’000 

  owners  Non-con-
trolling 
Total
interest  Equity
£’000

£’000 

Total
  Attribut-
able 

At 1 June 2019 

1,568 

14,018 

1,299 

28,949 

310 

180 

(3,435) 

26,405 

69,294 

Ordinary shares issued 

Dividends paid 

Investment in own shares 

Share-based payments 

Total transactions  
with owners 

Profit for the year 

Other comprehensive income 

Actuarial gain for the year  
on pension scheme 

Deferred tax on actuarial  
movement on pension scheme 

Exchange gain 

Total comprehensive income  
for the year 

Balance at  
31 May 2020 

20 

– 

– 

– 

952 

– 

– 

– 

20 

952 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

120 

120 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

972 

(1,191) 

(1,191) 

(800) 

– 

(800) 

– 

112 

       112 

(800) 

(1,079) 

(907) 

– 

1,386 

1,386 

– 

– 

– 

– 

58 

58 

(43) 

– 

(43) 

120 

1,401 

1,521 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

69,294

972

(1,191)

(800)

112

(907) 

1,386

58

(43)

120

1,521

1,588 

14,970 

1,299 

28,949 

430 

180 

(4,235) 

26,727 

69,908 

– 

69,908

The principal accounting policies and notes on pages 43 to 96 form part of these financial statements.

59

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity

For the year ended 31 May 2021 

  Capital 
Share  redemp- 

Invest- 
  ment in 

Share   premium 
capital  account 
£’000 
£’000 

tion  Merger 
reserve 
£’000 

reserve 
£’000 

  Trans- 
lation 
Other 
reserve  reserves 
£’000 
£’000 

own  Retained 

of the  
shares  earnings  Group 
£’000 
£’000 
£’000 

  owners  Non-con-
trolling 
Total
interest  Equity
£’000

£’000 

Total
  Attribut-
able 

At 1 June 2020 

1,588 

14,970 

1,299 

28,949 

430 

180 

(4,235) 

26,727 

69,908 

Ordinary shares issued 

Magnetica acquisition 

Gain on disposal of 
non-controlling interest  
in subsidiary  

Share-based payments 

Total transactions with owners 

Profit for the year 

Other comprehensive income 

Actuarial gain for the year  
on pension scheme 

Deferred tax on actuarial  
movement on pension scheme 

Exchange loss 

Total comprehensive income  
for the year 

Balance at  
31 May 2021 

11 

– 

– 

– 

11 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

377 

– 

– 

– 

377 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(1,162) 

(1,162) 

– 

– 

1,278 

– 

1,278 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

388 

– 

– 

– 

1,831 

69,908

388

1,831

– 

133 

133 

1,278 

133 

– 

– 

1,278

133

1,799 

1,831 

3,630

27,366 

27,366 

(166) 

27,200

(662) 

(662) 

49 

– 

49 

(1,162) 

– 

– 

– 

(662)

49

(1,162)

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

26,753 

25,591 

(166) 

25,425

1,599 

15,347 

1,299 

28,949 

(732) 

1,458 

(4,235) 

53,614 

97,298 

1,665 

98,963

The principal accounting policies and notes on pages 43 to 96 form part of these financial statements.

60

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Company Statement of Changes in Equity

For the year ended 31 May 2021

Share 
capital  
£’000 

1,568 

20 

– 

– 

20 

– 

– 

Share 
premium 
account  
£’000 

14,018 

952 

– 

– 

952 

– 

– 

Capital
redemp 
-tion 
 reserve 
£’000 

Merger 
reserve 
£’000 

Other 
 reserves 
£’000 

Retained
earnings 
£’000 

1,299 

28,949 

180 

22,859 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

Total
£’000

68,873

972

– 

(1,191) 

(1,191)

112 

112

(1,079) 

(107)

(649) 

(649)

(649) 

(649)

1,588 

14,970 

1,299 

28,949 

180 

21,131 

68,117

At 1 June 2019 

Ordinary shares issued 

Dividends paid 

Share-based payments 

Total transactions  
with owners 

Loss for the year 

Total comprehensive  
expense for the year 

Balance at  
31 May 2020 

At 1 June 2020 

1,588 

14,970 

1,299 

28,949 

180 

21,131 

68,117

Ordinary shares issued 

Share-based payments 

Total transactions  
with owners 

Profit for the year 

Gain on disposal of  
non-controlling interest  
in subsidiary 

Total comprehensive  
profit for the year 

Balance at  
31 May 2021 

11 

– 

11 

– 

– 

– 

377 

– 

377 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

57 

57 

– 

133 

133 

388

133

521

7,753 

7,753

– 

57

7,753 

7,810

1,599 

15,347 

1,299 

28,949 

237 

29,017 

76,448

The principal accounting policies and notes on pages 43 to 96 form part of these financial statements.

61

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

For the year ended 31 May 2021

Operating activities 
Cash flows from operating activities 
Finance costs paid 
Income tax paid 
Contributions to defined benefit plan  

Net cash inflow/(outflow) from operating activities  

Investing activities 
Acquisition of subsidiary undertakings, net of cash acquired 
Disposal of subsidiary undertaking, net of disposal costs 
Finance income 
Purchase of intangible assets 
Purchase of property, plant and equipment 
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment 

Note 

29 

35 
35 

2021 
£’000 

6,877 
(723) 
491 
(272) 

6,373 

341 
26,636 –
73 
(884) 
(1,532) 
– –

2020
£’000

2,919
(1,189)
(1,527)
(254)

(51)

720

38
(760)
(3,984)

Net cash generated from/(used in) investing activities 

24,634 

(3,986) 

Financing activities 
Equity dividends paid 
Repayments of bank loans 
Repayment of leases 
Proceeds from issue of ordinary shares 
Proceeds from borrowings 

Net cash (outflow)/inflow from financing activities 

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash 

– 
(4,397) 
(1,993) 
388 
149 

(5,853) 

25,154 
4,693 
(111) 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 

18 

29,736 

The principal accounting policies and notes on pages 43 to 96 form part of these financial statements.

(1,191)
(675)
(2,200)
972
3,807

713

(3,324)
8,053
(36)

4,693

62

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Company Statement of Cash Flow

For the year ended 31 May 2021

Operating activities 
Cash flows from operating activities 
Finance costs paid 
Income tax received/(paid)  

Net cash outflow from operating activities 

Investing activities 
Repayment from subsidiary undertakings 
Disposal of subsidiary undertakings 
Equity dividends received 
Finance income 

Net cash generated from investing activities 

Financing activities 
Equity dividends paid 
Repayments of bank loans 
Proceeds from issue of ordinary shares 

Net cash outflows from financing activities 

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 

Note 

30 

35 

2021 
£’000 

(2,882) 
(8) 
62 

(2,828) 

15,008 
17 –
10,000 –
436 

25,461 

– 
(122) 
388 

266 

22,899 
1,658 

18 

           24,557 

The principal accounting policies and notes on pages 43 to 96 form part of these financial statements.

2020
£’000

(3,483)
(14)
(112)

(3,609)

4,920

674

5,594

(1,191)
(168)
972

(387)

1,598
60

1,658

63

 
            
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report

For the year ended 31 May 2021

1

Corporate information 

The consolidated financial statements of Avingtrans plc and its subsidiaries (collectively the Group) for the year ended 31 May 
2021 were authorised for issue in accordance with a resolution of the directors on 28 September 2021. Avingtrans plc (the parent) 
is a limited company incorporated in England & Wales, whose shares are publicly traded on AIM. The registered office is located 
at Chatteris Business Park, Chatteris, Cambridgeshire PE16 6SA. The Group is principally engaged in the provision of highly 
engineered components, systems and services to the energy, medical and infrastructure industries worldwide. 

2

Segmental analysis

For management purposes, the Group is currently organised into three main segments Energy-EPM, Energy-PSRE and Medical-
MII. The basis on which the Group reports to the Chief Executive. 

Principal activities are as follows:

•  Energy – EPM, built around Hayward Tyler which designs, manufactures and services performance-critical electric motors 
and pumps for the global energy industry, as both an OEM supplier and a trusted through life support partner. EPM continues 
to develop its nuclear installed base (civil, defence and national security) – for life extension applications - and its offering 
to the hydrocarbon market sectors.

•  Energy  –  PSRE,  is  the  design,  manufacture,  integration  and  servicing  of  an  extensive  product  offering  including,  gas 
compressors, pressure vessels, blast doors, and containers. The primary strategy is to develop a comprehensive offering to 
the nuclear decommissioning and reprocessing markets.

•  Medical – MII, is the design and manufacture of innovative equipment for the medical, science and research communities. 
Including cutting-edge products for medical diagnostic equipment; high performance pressure, vacuum vessels and composite 
materials for research organisations; superconducting magnets and helium-free cryogenic systems in magnetic resonance 
imaging (MRI), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR).

Segment performance is evaluated based on profit or loss and is measured consistently with profit or loss in the consolidated 
financial statements as presented below:

Medical 
MII 
£’000 

Unallocated
central items 
 £’000 

Year ended 31 May 2021 

Original Equipment 
After Market 

Revenue 

Operating profit/(loss) 
Net finance income/(expense) 
Taxation credit/(charge) 

Profit/(loss) after tax from continuing operations 

Segment non-current assets 
Segment current assets 

Segment liabilities 

Net assets 
Non-current asset additions 
Intangible assets 
Tangible assets 

Energy 
EPM 
£’000 

15,427 
35,956 

51,383 

2,833 
(390) 
191 

2,634 

44,164 
34,940 

79,104 
(9,381) 

69,723 

75 
1,544 

1,619 

Energy 
PSRE 
£’000 

32,942 
4,629 

37,571 

4,312 
(194) 
(651) 

3,467 

11,525 
15,045 

26,570 
(12,856) 

13,714 

318 
663 

981 

9,367 
195 

9,562 

(302) 
(45) 
1 

(346) 

8,329 
3,711 

12,040 
(6,331) 

5,709 

3,610 
105 

3,715 

Other income statement items: 
Depreciation and amortisation 

(2,409) 

(1,119) 

(788) 

Total
£’000

57,736
40,780

98,516

6,085
(638)
(383)

5,064

64,018
78,595

142,613
(43,650)

– 
– 

– 

(758) 
(9) 
76 

(691) 

– 
24,899 

24,899 
(15,082) 

9,817 

98,963

– 
– 

– 

– 

4,003
2,312

6,315

(4,316)

Unallocated assets/ (liabilities) consist primarily of interest-bearing assets and liabilities and income tax assets and liabilities. 
Medical MII results include the acquisition of Magnetica AU which contributed £47k Group revenue and £418k loss after tax 
respectively (note 35). 

64

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

2

Segmental analysis (continued)

Year ended 31 May 2020 

Original Equipment 
After Market 

Revenue 

Operating profit/(loss) 
Net finance (expense)/ income 
Taxation 

Profit/ (loss) after tax from  
continuing operations 

Segment non-current assets 
Segment current assets 

Segment liabilities 

Net assets 
Non-current asset additions 
Intangible assets 
Tangible assets 

Other income statement items: 

Depreciation and amortisation 

Energy 
EPM 
£’000 

12,780 
36,530 

49,310 

1,261 
(549) 
(84) 

628 

46,933 
25,072 

72,005  
(3,845)  

Energy 
PSRE 
£’000 

28,032 
2,740 

30,772 

366 
(51) 
(124) 

191 

22,978 
23,613 

 46,591  
(29,875)  

Medical 
MII 
£’000 

Unallocated
entral items 
 £’000 

Total
£’000

52,691
39,270

91,961

604
(673)
(28)

(97)

74,625
56,609

– 
– 

– 

(697) 
(11) 
59 

(649) 

– 
4,755 

 4,755  
(17,979) 

 131,234
(61,326) 

11,879 
– 

11,879 

(326) 
(62) 
121 

(267) 

4,714 
3,169 

 7,883  
(9,627)  

68,160 

16,716 

(1,744) 

(13,224) 

69,908

 1,697  
 1,574  

 3,271  

 336  
 2,292  

 2,628  

 118  
 118  

 236  

(2,401) 

(604) 

(747) 

– 
– 

– 

– 

 2,151 
 3,984 

 6,135 

(3,752)

Unallocated assets/ (liabilities) consist primarily of interest-bearing assets and liabilities and income tax assets and liabilities. 
The  following  tables  provides  an  analysis  of  the  Group’s  revenue  by  destination  and  the  location  of  non-current  assets  by 
geographical market:

United Kingdom 
Europe (excl. UK) 
United States of America 
Africa & Middle East 
Americas & Caribbean (excl. USA) 
China 
Asia Pacific (excl. China) 
Antarctica 

2021  

Revenue  
£’000  

43,594  
8,407  
18,619  
2,137  
3,523  
11,137  
10,606  
493  

98,516  

The Group’s revenue disaggregated by pattern of revenue recognition is as follows: 

Over time 
Point in time 

2020 

Revenue 
£’000 

2021 

2020
  Non-current  Non-current 
Assets
£’000

Assets 
£’000 

39,816 
9,808 
20,532 
2,482 
4,155 
8,325 
6,843 
– 

91,961 

27,485 
– –
27,544 
– –
– –
2,059 
3,879 
– 

39,704

29,587

2,396
51
– 

60,967 

71,738

2021 
£’000 

61,048 
37,468 

98,516 

2020
£’000

41,998
49,963

91,961

65

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

2

Segmental analysis (continued)

The Group had no single external customer which represented more than 10% of the Group’s revenue in the current or prior year.

Prior year figures have been restated throughout the notes due to PB moving to discontinued operations.

Contract assets and liabilities

Contract assets: 
Energy – EPM 
Energy – PSRE 

Contract liabilities: 
Energy – EPM 
Energy – PSRE 

31 May 2021   1 June 2020
£’000

£’000 

12,872 
7,593 

20,465 

(1,318) 
(3,150) 

(4,468) 

10,730
4,836

15,566

(2,670)
(2,573)

(5,243)

A  contract  asset/liability  is  recognised  where  payment  is  received  in  arrears/advance  of  the  revenue  recognised  in  meeting 
performance obligations. At 31 May 2021, a greater proportion of the businesses contracts had payments in arrears, consequently 
there has been a increase in contract assets, and decrease in contract liabilities. The increase is payments in arrears is mainly 
driven by government customers who typically pay in arrears and don’t have significant advance payments.

Contract liability movement: 
1 June 
Revenue recognised which was included in the opening balance 
Increases due to cash received, excluding amounts recognised in the year 

At 31 May 

3

Profit before taxation – continuing  

Profit before taxation is stated after charging/(crediting):

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment 
(Profit)/loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment 
Amortisation of internally generated intangible assets 
Cost of inventories recognised as an expense 
Loss on foreign exchange transactions  
Amounts recognised from government grants 
Staff costs (note 8) 
Charitable donations 
Research and development expenditure 

2021  
£’000 

(5,243) 
5,243 
(4,468) 

(4,468) 

2021 
£’000 

3,461 
(9) 
545 
53,890 
144 
(1,248) 
32,462 
6 
388 

2020
£’000

(11,022)
11,022
(5,243)

(5,243)

2020
£’000

3,352
3
403
48,915
47
(75)
33,416
14
553

Discontinued operations would have charged an additional £10,090,000 (2020 £25,079,000) had they been included in the above.

Auditor’s remuneration 

Fees payable to the Company’s auditor for the audit of the financial statements 
Fees payable to the Company’s auditor and its associates for other services: 
–  Audit of the financial statements of the Company’s subsidiaries and 

associates pursuant to legislation 

2021 
£’000 

75 

202 

2020
£’000

54

196

66

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

4

Adjusted Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation

Profit/(loss) before tax from continuing operations 
Share based payment expense 
Acquisition costs 
Restructuring costs 
Other exceptionals 
Loss on derivatives 
Amortisation of intangibles from business combinations 

Adjusted profit before tax from continuing operations 

Finance income 
Finance cost 
Loss on derivatives 

Adjusted profit before interest, tax and amortisation from business combinations (‘EBITA’) 

Depreciation 
Amortisation of other intangible assets 
Amortisation of contract assets 

2021 
£’000 

5,447 
133 
234 
771 
(43) –
109 
1,008 

7,659 

(73) 
711 
(109) 

8,188 

3,461 
545 
310 –

2020
£’000

(69)
103
294
244

8
2,004

2,584

(38)
711
(8)

3,249

3,352
403

Adjusted Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation  
(‘EBITDA’) from continuing operations 

12,504 

7,004

The Directors believe that the above adjusted earnings are a more appropriate reflection of the Group performance. 

5

Finance income

Bank balances and deposits 
Interest from defined benefit pension scheme 
Gain arising on the fair value of derivative contracts 

6

Finance costs

Amortisation of banking facility arrangement fees 
Losses arising on the fair value of derivative contracts 
Interest on bank loans and overdrafts wholly repayable within five years 
Interest on bank loans and overdrafts wholly repayable after five years 
Interest on lease agreements 

Group

2021 
£’000 

2020
£’000

11 
27 
35 

73 

5
33
–

38

Group

2021 
£’000 

2020
£’000

– 
144 
372 
7 
188 

711 

30
8
404
26
243

711

67

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

7

Directors’ emoluments

Particulars of directors’ emoluments from continuing operations are as follows:

Salary  
and 
 Fees 
£’000 

Benefits 
£’000 

Bonus 
and 
benefits 
£’000 

Long 
Term 
 Incentive 
£’000 

Total 
2021 
£’000 

Total 
2020 
£’000 

Pension 
Total 
2021 
£’000 

Pension 
Total
2020
£’000

Non-executive: 
R S McDowell 
J S Clarke 
LJ Thomas 
GK Thornton* 

Executive: 
S McQuillan 
S M King 

Total emoluments 

71 
34 
34 
– 

283 
231 

653 

– 
– 
– 
– 

149 
121 

270 

– 
– 
– 
– 

2 
– 

2 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 

– 

71 
34 
34 
– 

434 
352 

925 

73 
34 
35 
31 

333 
273 

779 

– –
– –
– –
– –

– –
– –

– –

* GK Thornton resigned from the Board on 14 November 2019.

During  2021  S  McQuillan  and  S  M  King  received  a  bonus  of  £345,000  and  £365,000  respectively  in  connection  with  the 
successful completion of the disposal of Peter Brotherhood Limited. These costs have been included as discontinued operations 
and therefore excluded from the above table. Thus total 2021 remuneration and remuneration for the highest paid director would 
be £1,635,000 (2020: £779,000) and £779,000 (2020: £333,000) respectively.

The non-cash benefits comprise the provision of private health insurance for S McQuillan. The number of Directors who are 
accruing benefits under money purchase schemes is nil (2020: nil). 

The long term incentive represents the initial interest in the Joint Ownership Scheme (see note 34).

Employers National Insurance Contributions made relating to directors’ emoluments were £140,000 (2020: £116,000).

During 2021 S McQuillan and S M King exercised 250,250 and 209,250 approved share options respectively resulting in paper 
capital gains of £191,000 and £157,000 (2020: S McQuillan and S M King exercised 100,000 and 75,000 approved share options 
respectively resulting in paper capital gains of £60,000 and £45,000) as set out on page 27. Additionally S M King exercised 
39,733 unapproved share options resulting in a taxed gain of £81,000.

68

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

8

Employees 

Particulars of employees, including Executive Directors:

Wages and salaries 
Social security costs 
Other pension costs 
Share-based payment expense 

2021 
£’000 

28,109 
2,719 
1,501 
133 

32,462 

2020
£’000

28,985
2,890
1,438
103

33,416

Discontinued operations wages and salaries of £4,891,000 (2020 £7,613,000) have not been included in the above note.

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

Production 
Selling and distribution 
Administration 

2021 
Number 

2020
Number

388 
53 
263 

704 

429
121
184

734

The remuneration of the Directors and Senior Management, who are the key management personnel of the Group, is set out 
below in aggregate for each of the categories specified in IAS 24 ‘Related Party Disclosures’.

Short term employee benefits (including NIC) 
Post-employment benefits 
Share-based payments 

9

Taxation

Continuing operations 
Current tax 
Corporation tax – current year 
Corporation tax – prior year 
Overseas tax 

Total current tax 

Deferred tax (note 25) 
Deferred tax – current year 
Deferred tax – prior year 
Deferred tax – rate 

Total deferred tax 

Tax charge on continuing operations 

Tax (credit)/charge on discontinued operations 

Total tax (credit)/charge in the year 

2021 
£’000 

1,495 
10 
76 

1,581 

2020   
£’000 

1,194
10
61

1,265

2021 
£’000 

2020
£’000 

6 
43 
738 

787 

(241) 
(298) 
135 

(404) 

383 

(746) 

(363) 

57
13
(170)

(100)

111
(50)
67

128

28

406

434

Corporation  tax  is  calculated  at  19%  (2020:  19%)  of  the  estimated  assessable  profit/loss  for  the  year.  Taxation  for  other 
jurisdictions is calculated at the rates prevailing in the respective jurisdictions.

69

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

9

Taxation (continued) 

The charge for the year can be reconciled to the profit per the income statement as follows:

Profit before taxation: 
Continuing operations 
Discontinued operations 

Theoretical tax at UK corporation tax rate of 19% (2020: 19%) 
Effects of: 
Expenditure that is not tax deductible 
Un-provided deferred tax differences 
Adjustments in respect of prior years 
Recognition of previously unrecognised losses 
Rate differential on timing differences 
Change in deferred tax rate 
Differential in overseas tax rate 

Total tax charge 

2021 
£’000 

2020
£’000

5,447 
21,555 

27,002 

5,130 

(4,671) 
2 
(288) 
(671) 
– 
135 
– 

(363) 

(69)
1,889

1,820

346

203
(60)
8
(68)
(12)
51
(34)

434

The Group has tax losses carried forward of approximately £22.6 million at 31 May 2021 (2020: £32.6 million) that may be 
relievable against future profits. Further details are detailed in note 25.

The Group’s corporation tax assets and liabilities can be summarised as follows:

Current tax assets 
Corporation tax 

Current tax liabilities 
Corporation tax 

2021 
£’000 

633 

633 

(672) 

(39) 

2020
£’000

1,221

1,221

(70)

1,151

Corporation tax assets includes refunds due on US taxes and R&D claims made in the UK.

Factors that may affect future tax charges

The substantively enacted UK corporation tax rate at 31 May 2021 and 2020 was 19%. As per the March 2021 budget the tax rate 
will increase to 25% by 2023. The deferred tax asset at 31 May 2021 has been calculated based on these rates. 

10

Dividends

Interim dividend paid of 0p per ordinary share (2020: 1.4p) 
Final dividend paid of 0p per ordinary share (2020: 2.4p) 

2021 
£’000 

– 
– 

– 

2020
£’000

439
752

1,191

The above excludes any proposed dividend not yet paid as disclosed in the strategic report.

70

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

11

Earnings per ordinary share 

Basic and diluted earnings per share have been calculated in accordance with IAS 33 which requires that earnings should be 
based on the net profit or loss attributable to ordinary shareholders and the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue 
during the year.

For diluted earnings per share the weighted average number of ordinary shares is adjusted to assume conversion of all dilutive 
potential ordinary shares, being the CSOP and ExSOP share options.

Weighted average number of shares – basic 
Share option adjustment 

Weighted average number of shares – diluted 

Profit from continuing operations 
Share based payment expense 
Acquisition costs 
Restructuring costs 
Other exceptionals 
Loss on derivatives 
Amortisation of intangibles from business combinations 

Adjusted profit after tax from continuing operations 

From continuing operations: 
Basic earnings per share 
Adjusted basic earnings per share 
Diluted earnings per share 
Adjusted diluted earnings per share 

Earnings from discontinuing operations: 

From discontinuing operations 
Basic earnings per share 
Adjusted basic earnings per share 
Diluted earnings per share 
Adjusted diluted earnings per share 

Earnings attributable to shareholders including non-controlling interest 

Basic earnings per share 
Adjusted basic earnings per share 
Diluted earnings per share 
Adjusted diluted earnings per share 

2021 
Number 

2020
Number

31,855,908 
670,102 

31,531,278
569,687

32,526,010 

32,100,965

2021 
£’000 

5,064 
133 
234 
771 
(43) 
109 
1,008 

7,276 

15.9p 
22.8p 
15.6p 
22.4p 

24,028 

69.5p 
75.4p 
68.1p 
73.9p 

31,303 

85.4p 
98.3p 
83.6p 
96.2p 

2020
£’000

(96)
103
294
244
–
8
2,004

2,557

(0.3)p
8.1p
(0.3)p
8.0p

2,642

4.7p
8.4p
4.6p
8.2p

5,199

4.4p
16.5p
4.3p
16.2p

The Directors believe that the above adjusted earnings per share calculation for continuing operations is a more appropriate 
reflection of the Group’s underlying performance.

There are Nil share options at 31 May 2021 (2020: 585,000) that are not included within diluted earnings per share because they 
are anti-dilutive.

71

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

12

Goodwill 

Cost 
At 1 June 2019 
Acquisition of subsidiary undertaking 
Exchange adjustments 

At 1 June 2020 
Acquisition of subsidiary undertaking (note 35) 
Disposal of subsidiary undertaking (note 35) 
Exchange movement 

At 31 May 2021 

Accumulated impairment losses 
At 1 June 2019 
Impairment charge 

At 1 June 2020 

Impairment charge 

At 31 May 2021 

Net book value 
At 31 May 2021 

At 31 May 2020 

£’000

24,219
238
7

24,464
324
(2,521)
(40)

22,227

850
155

1,005

–

1,005 

21,222 

23,459

Goodwill acquired in a business combination is allocated, at acquisition, to the cash generating units (CGUs) that are expected to 
benefit from that business combination. The carrying amount of goodwill has been allocated as follows:

Energy-EPM 
Energy-PSRE 
Medical-MII 

2021 
£’000 

15,320 
4,077 
1,825 

21,222 

2020
£’000

15,352
6,598
1,509

23,459

The Group tests goodwill annually for impairment, or more frequently if there are indications that goodwill might be impaired. 

The recoverable amounts of the CGUs are determined from value in use calculations. The key assumptions for the value in use 
calculations are those regarding the revenue growth rates, expected changes to selling prices and direct costs during the period 
and discount rates.

The Group prepares cash flow forecasts derived from the most recent financial budgets approved by management for the next 
three years and derives cash flows for the following two years based on estimated growth rates for the specific markets in which 
each CGU operates. The Group uses its past experience in compiling the cashflow forecasts. The estimated growth rate does not 
exceed the average long-term growth rate for the relevant markets. A rate of between 0% and 3.4% has been used for Energy-
EPM, Energy-PSRE and Medical-MII CGUs respectively. Recent changes to management and improvements to the contract 
negotiation and costing processes are expected to increase margins whilst Medical is developing into new markets and service. 

Changes in selling prices and direct costs are based on past practices and expectations of future changes in the market. 

The rate used to discount the forecast cash flows for the EPM and PSRE divisions is 11.2% (2020: 10.5%), and for the MII 
division is 13.7% (2020: 10.5%) which is considered appropriate based on the Group’s borrowings adjusted for the aggregate 
risk in the respective markets. 

Management have sensitised these key assumptions for each CGU within what is considered a reasonably possible range for 
the market in which the Group operates. If we were to assume a 0% long term growth rate no impairment would arise (2020: 
£798,000). If the discount rate was increased by 1% no impairment would arise (2020: £1,359,000).

Whilst a two year horizon is shorter than the expected remaining life of the relevant CGUs, the directors consider this a suitable 
period to apply in performing impairment reviews due to the inherent uncertainty in further extrapolating three year forecasts.

72

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

13

Other intangible assets – group

Customer 

Relationships  Order book 
£’000 

£’000 

  Development
costs 
£’000 

Brand 
£’000 

Software 
£’000 

10,532 

– 

– 

– 

– 

3,096 

– 

1,387 

– 

43 

2,504 

61 

– 

– 

– 

10,532 

4,526 

2,565 

Cost 

At 1 June 2019 

Additions 

Acquisition of subsidiary undertakings 

Disposals 

Exchange adjustments 

At 1 June 2020 

Additions 

Acquisition of subsidiary  
undertakings  

Disposal of subsidiary  
undertakings (note 35) 

Disposals 

Exchange adjustments 

At 31 May 2021 

Accumulated amortisation 

At 1 June 2019 

Charge for the year 

Reclassification from PPE 

Exchange differences 

Disposals 

At 1 June 2020 

Charge for continuing  
operations 

Charge for discontinued  
operations 

Exchange adjustments 

Disposal of subsidiary  
undertakings 

Disposals 

At 31 May 2021 

Net book value at 31 May 2021 

Net book value at 31 May 2020 

– 

– 

(1,491) 

– 

– 

9,041 

1,478 

845 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(4,526) 

– 

– 

3,096 

1,194 

– 

31 

– 

2,323 

4,321 

695 

116 

– 

(526) 

– 

2,608 

6,433 

8,209 

189 

– 

– 

– 

(4,510) 

– 

– 

205 

5,247 

608 

– 

(625) 

– 

5,230 

808 

3,110 

(156) 

– 

(101) 

– 

– 

(596) 

– 

(8) 

1,961 

8,891 

335 

194 

– 

– 

– 

529 

140 

57 

– 

(221) 

– 

505 

1,456 

2,036 

2,162 

419 

– 

6 

(595) 

1,992 

497 

32 

7 

(32) 

– 

2,496 

6,395 

3,238 

577 

91 

– 

– 

– 

668 

63 

9 

– 

(18) 

(2) 

720 

403 

36 

84 

– 

– 

523 

32 

– 

2 

– 

(16) 

541 

179 

145 

Total
£’000

21,956

760

1,387

(625)

43

23,521

871

3,119

(2,243)

(4,544)

(111)

20,613

7,474

2,688

84

37

(595)

9,687

1,553

205

9

(779)

(4,526)

6,149

14,464

13,834

73

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

14

Property, plant and equipment – group 

Land 

Plant and 
and buildings  Machinery 
£’000 

£’000 

  Equipment
and motor
vehicles 
£’000 

Cost
At 1 June 2019 
Acquisitions 
Additions 
Disposals 
Transfer  
Exchange adjustments 

At 1 June 2020 
Acquisitions 
Additions 
Impairment 
Disposals 
Disposal of subsidiary company 
Exchange adjustments 

At 31 May 2021 

Accumulated depreciation 
At 1 June 2019 
Charge in the year 
Disposals 
Reclassification to intangibles 
Exchange adjustments 

At 1 June 2020 
Charge for continuing operations 
Charge for discontinued operations 
Disposals 
Disposal of subsidiary 
Transfer 
Exchange adjustments 

At 31 May 2021 

23,641 
4 
1,604 
(106) 
– 
18 

25,161 
– 
829 
(222) 
(3) 
(5,540) 
(329) 

19,896 

1,889 
1,770 
(59) 
– 
17 

3,617 
1,350 
348 
(3) 
(1,057) 
61 
(117) 

4,199 

15,270 
107 
1,878 
(116) 
161 
66 

17,366 
306 
807 
– 
(248) 
(3,296) 
(493) 

14,442 

4,325 
1,962 
(106) 
49 
15 

6,245 
1,553 
299 
(87) 
(1,290) 
– 
(254) 

6,466 

3,330 
11 
502 
(312) 
(161) 
27 

3,397 
– 
677 
– 
(14) 
(391) 
(204) 

3,465 

1,405 
610 
(279) 
(133) 
13 

1,616 
558 
59 
(12) 
(270) 
– 
(96) 

1,855 

Total
£’000

42,241
122
3,984
(534)
–
111

45,924
306
2,313
(222)
(265)
(9,227)
(1,026)

37,802

7,619
4,343
(444)
(84)
45

11,479
3,461
706
(102)
(2,617)
61
(467)

12,521

Net book value at 31 May 2021 

15,697 

7,976 

1,610 

25,281

Net book value at 31 May 2020 

21,544 

11,121 

1,781 

34,445

Right-of-use assets

Included in property, plant and equipment are right-of-use assets as follows:

Land and buildings 
Plant and machinery 
Equipment and motor vehicles 

74

Carrying  
amount 
£’000 

Additions 
£’000 

  Depreciation 
expense
£’000

2,817 
1,468 
199 

4,484 

721 
– 
54 

775 

870
324
91

1,285

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

15

Investments

Cost 
At 1 June 2019 
Acquisition of subsidiary undertakings 

At 1 June 2020 
Investment in subsidiary undertaking 
Disposal of subsidiary undertaking (note 35) 
Investment written off 

At 31 May 2021 

Provision 
At 1 June 2019 
Provision against subsidiary undertaking 

At 1 June 2020 

Investment written off 

At 31 May 2021 

Net book value at 31 May 2021 

Net book value at 31 May 2020 

Group 
undertakings 
£’000 

Capital
contributions 
£’000 

40,284 
1,650 

41,934 
4,154 
– 
(1,679) 

44,409 

4,424 
1,805 

6,229 

(1,679) 

4,550 

39,859 

35,705 

169 
65 

234 
75 
(17) 
– 

292 

– 
– 

– 

– 

– 

292 

234 

Total
£’000

40,453
1,715

42,168
4,229
(17)
(1,679)

44,701

4,424
1,805

6,229

(1,679)

4,550

40,151

35,939

Investment written off in the table above relates to Crown UK Limited in which a provision was previously held so no profit/(loss) 
impact.

The Company has the following investments in Ordinary shares in subsidiaries:    

Name 
Crown UK Limited 
Stainless Metalcraft (Chatteris) Limited 
Metalcraft (Chengdu) Limited * 
Metalcraft (Sichuan) Limited * 
Maloney Metalcraft Limited  
Composite Products Limited  
Space Cryomagnetics Limited ** 
Scientific Magnetics Limited ** 
Hayward Tyler Limited * 
Hayward Tyler Inc * 
Energy Steel & Supply Co. * 
Hayward Tyler Pumps (Kunshan) Co Limited * 
Hayward Tyler India PTE Limited * 
Hayward Tyler Fluid Handling Limited * 
Tecmag Inc ** 
Magnetica Limited ACN ** 
Hayward Tyler Group plc 
Southbank UK Limited * 
Hayward Tyler Group Limited * 
Hayward Tyler Holdings Limited * 
Hayward Tyler Holding Inc * 
Nviro Cleantech Limited * 
Redglade Associates Limited * 
Redglade Investments Limited * 

Country of incorporation 
England and Wales 
England and Wales 
China 
China 
England and Wales 
England and Wales 
England and Wales 
England and Wales 
England & Wales 
USA 
USA 
China 
India 
England & Wales 
USA 
Australia 
Isle of Man 
England & Wales 
England & Wales 
England & Wales 
USA 
England & Wales 
England & Wales 
England & Wales 

Principal activity
Trading
Trading
Trading
Trading
Trading
Trading
Trading
Trading
Trading
Trading
Trading
Trading
Trading
Trading
Trading
Trading
Holding company
Property
Holding company
Holding company
Holding company
Holding company
Property
Holding company

75

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

15

Investments (continued)

Name 
Hayward Tyler Pension Plan Trustees Limited* 
Hayward Tyler (UK) Limited * 
Appleton & Howard Limited * 
Credit Montague Limited * 
Mullins Limited * 

Country of incorporation 
England & Wales 
England & Wales 
England & Wales 
England & Wales 
England & Wales 

Principal activity
Manages pension scheme
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant

* Indirectly owned subsidiary.

 ** All subsidiaries are 100% owned with the exception of Magnetica (58.1% owned) and its 100% owned subsidiaries Space 
Cryomagnetics Limited, Scientific Magnetics Limited and Tecmag Inc.  

16

Inventories
                                                                                                                                                                                    Group

Raw materials and consumables 
Work in progress 
Finished goods  

2021 
£’000 

4,872 
2,345 
2,859 

2020
£’000

7,276
2,730
3,384

10,076 

13,390

The replacement cost of the above stocks would not be significantly different from the values stated. During the year there was 
an impairment charge included in cost of sales of £425,000 (2020: £46,000). The stock provision included within raw materials 
is £2,630,000 (2020: £2,191,000).

17

Trade and other receivables
                                                                                                                                      Group                                    Company

Amounts falling due within one year 
Trade receivables 
Allowance for doubtful debts 

Other receivables 
Amounts owed by group undertakings 
Prepayments 
Contract assets 

Amounts falling due after one  year 

Contract assets 

2021 
£’000 

14,509 
(175) 

14,334 

597 
– 
2,412 
18,667 

36,010 

2020 
£’000 

16,388 
(219) 

16,169 

362 
– 
4,813 
15,566 

36,910 

2021 
£’000 

2020
£’000

– –
– –

– –

4,246 
8,453 
46 
– –

4,235
27,559
10

12,745 

31,804

1,798 

– 

– –

The group adopts a simplified approach in accounting for trade and other receivables and records the loss allowance as lifetime 
expected credit losses. These are the expected shortfall in contractual cash flows, considering the potential for default at any 
point during the life of the financial instrument. The group uses its historical experience, external indicators and forward-looking 
information to calculate the expected credit losses using a provision matrix.

 The Group’s maximum exposure to credit risk is limited to trade receivables net of allowance for doubtful debts. 

An explanation of credit risk relating to trade receivables is provided on note 24 financial instruments.

The Contract Assets relates to a contract with contracted life of greater than one year and has been allocated based on expected 
schedules. 

76

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

18

Cash and cash equivalents 

Cash and cash equivalents included the following components:

Group 

Company

Cash at bank and in hand: 
GBP 
USD 
EUR 
Other 
Total cash at bank and in hand 
Overdraft: 

Total cash and cash equivalents 

31 May  
2021 
£’000 

27,447 
1,316 
74 
1,241 
30,078 
(342) 

29,736 

31 May 
2020 
£’000 

3,053 
474 
471 
1,090 
5,088 
(395) 

4,693 

31 May 
2021 
£’000 

24,557 
– –
– –
– –
24,557 
– –

24,557 

19

Provisions

The carrying amounts and the movements in the provision account are as follows:

Carrying amount 
1 June 2019 
Acquisition of subsidiary undertakings  
Additional provisions 
Amounts utilised 
Reversals 
Exchange adjustments  

1 June 2020 

Disposal of subsidiary undertakings  
Additional provisions 
Amounts utilised 
Reversals 
Exchange adjustments  

31 May 2021 

Warranty 
£’000 

  Loss making
contracts 
£’000 

Group

Other  Dilapidations 
£’000 
£’000 

1,519 
236 
699 
(444) 
(537) 
16 

1,489 

(286) 
1,145 
(397) 
(370) 
(86) 

1,495 

1,325 
793 
341 
(970) 
– 
13 

1,502 

– 
582 
(327) 
(1,554) 
(41) 

162 

127 
– 
57 
(186) 
– 
2 

– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

2,369 
– 
154 
– 
– 
– 

2,523 

(2,266) 
– 
– 
(168) 
(4) 

85 

31 May 
2020
£’000

1,658

1,658

1,658

Total
£’000

5,340
1,029
1,251
(1,600)
(537)
31

5,514

(2,552)
1,727
(724)
(2,092)
(131)

1,742

Warranty provision: Provisions for warranty work represent the estimated cost of work provided under the terms of the contracts 
with customers with reference to the length and unexpired portion of the terms provided. Warranty periods vary by product and 
typically have a range of 12 to 24 months.

Loss making contracts: Provisions for loss making contracts are the estimated total costs that exceed the total revenues from 
contracts that are in progress at the reporting date. These contracts are expected to complete in the next 12 months and the losses 
utilised.

Other provisions: The balance to carry forward in other provisions relates to liquidated damages. Provisions for liquidated damages 
are the liabilities estimated to arise on the expected delay in shipment of contracts that have been shipped prior to 31 May 2021. 
There were minor expected delays in the year.  

Dilapidations: Provision for dilapidation mainly represents the estimated cost to restore the property to the agreed condition set out 
in the lease rental agreement. 

77

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

20

Trade and other payables

Trade payables 
Other tax and social security 
Other payables 
Contract liabilities 
Accruals   

   Group                                         Company

2021 
£’000  

8,926 
1,371 
2,419 
4,468 
9,403 

26,587 

2020 
£’000 

12,483 
1,553 
1,714 
5,243 
9,315 

30,308 

2021 
£’000 

2020
£’000

92 
31 
110 
– –
342 

575 

303
26
119

29

477

The other payables balance includes deferred grant income arising from the US Paycheck Protection Program of £1,248,000 (2020: 
£749,000). This balance is expected to be recognised in the Income Statement in the next reporting period.

21

Other creditors 

Non-current 
Other creditors 

   Group                                         Company

2021 
£’000  

2020 
£’000 

2021 
£’000 

2020
£’000 

1,246 

1,247 

– 

–

Other creditors relates to deferred grant income received from the Regional Growth Fund for capital investment. This balance is 
expected to be recognised in the income statement over the life of the assets which the grant relates to. The majority of the grant 
relates to building improvements which have 20 years of remaining depreciation.

22

Financial assets and liabilities

The carrying amounts of financial assets and financial liabilities in each category are as follows:   

   Group                                         Company

2021 
£’000  

2020 
£’000 

2021 
£’000 

Financial assets at amortised cost: 
Trade and other receivables 
Cash and cash equivalents 

Total financial assets 

Financial liabilities at amortised cost: 
Trade payables 
Accruals 
Borrowings 
Lease obligations 

Financial liabilities measured at FVTPL: 
Derivative financial instruments 
Contingent/deferred consideration 

14,334 
30,078 

44,412 

8,926 
9,403 
5,528 
4,275 

28,132 

144 
– 

16,169 
5,088 

21,257 

12,483 
9,315 
9,970 
11,465 

43,233 

36 
256 

Total financial liabilities 

28,276 

43,525 

A description of the Group’s financial instrument risks is included in note 24.

78

8,453 
24,557 

33,010 

92 
342 
431 
– –

865 

– –
– 

865 

2020
£’000

27,559
1,658

29,217

303
29
551

883

256

1,139

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

22

Financial assets and liabilities (Continued)

All of the Group’s derivative financial instruments in the current and prior year relate to USD forward contracts. All derivative 
financial instruments in the current and prior period have a maturity within 12 months of their respective balance sheet date.

Borrowings comprise of: 

Secured borrowings 

Bank overdrafts and short-term borrowings 
Bank loans 

Total borrowings 

Amount due for settlement within 12 months 

Amount due for settlement after 12 months 

Bank loans due within one to two years 
Bank loans due within two to five years 
Bank loans due after five years 

   Group                                         Company

2021 
£’000 

2020
£’000

2021 
£’000  

1,326 
4,202 

5,528 

2,160 

3,368 

2020 
£’000 

1,367 
8,603 

9,970 

6,005 

3,965 

– –
430 

430 

181 

249 

 Group                                         Company

2021 
£’000  

2,674 
363 
331 

3,368 

2020 
£’000 

686 
2,902 
377 

3,965 

2021 
£’000 

181 
68 
– –

249 

551

551

181

370

2020
£’000

181
189

370

Bank loans, overdrafts and short-term borrowings of £5,528,000 (2020: £9,970,000) are secured on certain assets of the Group. The 
debt is secured over PPE, inventory and trade receivables. Their carrying values can be seen in notes 14,16 and 17 respectively.

At 31 May 2021 the Group had £33,891,000 (2020: £11,094,000) of undrawn committed borrowing facilities expiring within one 
year which the Directors expect to be renewed. All borrowings were at variable rates relative to local base rates. 

Short term borrowings and Bank loans were based on variable LIBOR rates at margins of between 2.75% - 3.0% and 1.5% - 2.5% 
respectively.

The Group have £11,250,000 (2020: £11,750,000) of bond and guarantee facilities to support ongoing contract trading activity. As 
at the 31 May, £5,888,000 is utilised (2020: £8,862,000).

23

Lease liabilities 

Lease liabilities are presented in the statement of financial position as follows:

Current 
Non-current 

At 31 May 
2021 
£’000 

At 31 May
2020
£’000

1,310 
2,965 

4,275 

2,125
9,340

11,465

With the exception of short-term leases and leases of low-value underlying assets, each lease is reflected on the balance sheet as a 
right-of-use asset and a lease liability. Variable lease payments which do not depend on an index or a rate (such as lease payments 
based on a percentage of Group sales) are excluded from the initial measurement of the lease liability and asset. The Group classifies 
its right-of-use assets in a consistent manner to its property, plant and equipment (see note 14).

79

 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2020

23

Lease liabilities (continued)

Each lease generally imposes a restriction that, unless there is a contractual right for the Group to sublet the asset to another party, 
the right-of-use asset can only be used by the Group. Leases are either non-cancellable or may only be cancelled by incurring a 
substantive termination fee. Some leases contain an option to purchase the underlying leased asset outright at the end of the lease, 
or to extend the lease for a further term. The Group is prohibited from selling or pledging the underlying leased assets as security. 
For leases over office buildings and factory premises the Group must keep those properties in a good state of repair and return the 
properties in their original condition at the end of the lease.

The lease liabilities are secured by the related underlying assets. Future minimum lease payments were as follows:

Within 
1 year 
£’000 

1,459 
(149) 

1,310 

2,654 
(529) 

2,125 

1-2 years 
£’000 

2-3 years 
£’000 

3-4 years 
£’000 

4-5 years 
£’000 

1,212 
(102) 

1,110 

2,164 
(447) 

1,717 

732 
(60) 

672 

1,970 
(375) 

1,595 

605 
(36) 

569 

1,347 
(317) 

1,030 

541 
(13) 

528 

1,219 
(277) 

942 

Over 
5 years 
£’000 

87 
(1) 

86 

Total
£’000

4,636
(361) 

4,275 

5,029 
(973) 

4,056 

14,383
(2,918) 

11,465

31 May 2021 
Lease payments 
Finance charges 

Net present value 

31 May 2020 
Lease payments 
Finance charges 

Net present value 

The group has elected not to recognise a lease liability for short term leases (leases with an expected term of 12 months or less) or 
for leases of low value assets. Payments made under such leases are expensed on a straight-line basis. In addition, certain variable 
lease payments are not permitted to be recognised as lease liabilities and are expensed as incurred. 

The expense relating to payments not included in the measurement of the lease liability is as follows:

Short-term leases 
Leases of low value assets 

2021 
£’000 

 189  
 89  

 278  

2020
£’000

494
29

523

Some  leases  contain  break  clauses  or  extension  options  to  provide  operational  flexibility.  Potential  future  undiscounted  lease 
payments not included in the reasonably certain lease term, and hence not included in lease liabilities, total £2.3m at 31 May 2021 
(31 May 2020: £2.3m).

Future increases or decreases in rentals linked to an index or rate are not included in the lease liability until the change in cash flows 
takes effect. 3% (2020: 5%) of the Group’s lease liabilities are subject to inflation-linked rentals and a further 8% (2020: 45%) are 
subject to rent reviews. Rental changes linked to inflation or rent reviews typically occur on an annual or five-yearly basis.

The Group has not signed any leases in the year which have not yet commenced.

80

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

24

Financial instruments 

The Group is exposed to various risks in relation to financial instruments. The Group’s financial assets and liabilities by category 
are summarised in Note 22. The main types of risks are capital risk, market risk, foreign currency risk, interest risk, price risk, credit 
risk, and liquidity risk.

Capital risk management 

The Group manages its capital to ensure that entities in the Group will be able to continue as going concerns while maximising the 
return to stakeholders through the optimisation of the debt and equity balance. The capital structure of the Group consists of debt, 
which includes the borrowings disclosed in notes 22 and 23 cash and cash equivalents and equity attributable to equity holders of 
the parent, comprising issued capital, reserves and retained earnings as disclosed in the statement of changes in equity.

The Board closely monitor current and forecast cash balances at monthly Board meetings to allow the Group to maximise return 
to shareholders by way of dividends, whilst maintaining suitable amounts of liquid funds and facilities to allow acquisitions to be 
funded as opportunities arise and continued investment in property, plant and equipment and research and development. The level 
of dividends are set by the Board to meet the expectations of the shareholders based on cash generated by the Group.

The gearing ratio at the year-end is as follows: 

Debt 
Cash and cash equivalents 

Net (debt)/cash 

Equity 

Net (debt)/cash to equity ratio 

   Group                                         Company

2021 
£’000  

(9,803) 
30,078 

20,275 

98,963 

20.5% 

2020 
£’000 

(21,435) 
5,088 

(16,347) 

69,908 

(23.4)% 

2021 
£’000 

(431) 
24,557 

24,126 

76,448 

31.6% 

2020
£’000

(551)
1,658

1,107

68,117

1.6%

Debt is defined as short and long term borrowings and lease liabilities, as detailed in note 22. Equity includes all capital and reserves 
of the Group attributable to equity holders of the parent. The Group is not subject to externally imposed capital requirements. 

Market risk

The Group’s activities expose it primarily to the financial risks of changes in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates 
particularly in US dollars and the Euro.  

Foreign currency risk management

The exposure to foreign currency risk expressed in GBP was as follows:

Trade and other receivables 
Overdrafts 
Bank loans 
Lease liabilities 
Trade and other creditors 

USD 
£’000 

         9,034  
(342) 
(1,132)  
(2,840)  
(10,890)  

31 May 2021 

EUR 
£’000 

RMB 
£’000 

USD 
£’000 

31 May 2020

EUR 
£’000 

RMB
£’000

      325  
– 
– 
– 
(86)  

        5,301  
– 
– 
(400)  
(1,021)  

          5,829  
(395)  
(1,187)  
(3,236)  
(11,058)  

             751  
– 
– 
– 

(1,005)  

          3,936 
–
–
(592) 
(639) 

The Group enters into forward foreign currency contracts to eliminate exposures on certain material sales or purchases denominated 
in foreign currency once a significant commitment has been made.

Derivative  contracts  are  measured  at  fair  value  in  the  statement  of  financial  position  with  movements  in  that  fair  value  being 
recognised in profit or loss. The Group presently has foreign exchange forward contracts  to purchase £2.0 million (2020: £0.6 
million) in order to manage the transactional currency exposure on certain contracts outstanding as at 31 May 2021. 

The foreign exchange loss in the year shown in the Statement of Comprehensive Income is mainly due to the weakening of the US 
Dollar from the prior year.

81

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2020

24

Financial instruments (continued)

The following table details the Group’s sensitivity to a 10% increase and decrease in Sterling against the relevant foreign currencies 
on overseas assets. These changes are considered to be reasonably possible based on observation of current market conditions.

Euro currency impact 
2020 
£’000 

2021 
£’000 

US $ currency impact 
2020 
£’000 

2021 
£’000 

RmB currency impact
2020
£’000

2021 
£’000 

(26) 

28 

206 

581 

(475) 

(366)

Impact (+/-) on 
Profit for the financial year/equity 

Interest rate risk management 

The Group finances its operations where necessary through bank loans, overdrafts and finance lease facilities. The bank loans and 
overdrafts are at floating rates principally at negotiated margins using pooling of the Group’s requirements to achieve this. The 
finance lease facilities are held at both fixed and floating rates.

If interest rates on floating rate borrowings (i.e. cash and cash equivalents and bank overdrafts attracting interest at floating rates) 
were to change by + or – 0.5% the impact on the results in the income statement and equity would be an increase/decrease of 
£42,000. These charges are considered to be reasonably possible based on observation of current market conditions.

Price risk management

Where possible the Group enters into long term contracts with suppliers to mitigate any significant exposure to materials and utilities 
price risk.

Credit risk management

The Group’s principal financial assets are bank balances, cash, and trade receivables. The credit risk is managed on a group basis 
based on the Group’s credit risk management policies and procedures. 

The Group’s principal credit risk is attributable to its trade receivables. Credit risk is managed by monitoring the aggregate amount 
and duration of exposure to any one customer depending upon their credit rating. The amounts presented in the balance sheet are 
net of allowances for doubtful debts, estimated by the Group’s management based on prior experience and their assessment of the 
current economic environment. 

The credit risk on liquid funds is limited because the counterparties are banks with high credit-ratings assigned by international 
credit-rating agencies.

The Group has no major customer representing more than 10% (2020: no major customer which representing more than 10%) of 
trade receivables, the Group has no other significant concentration of receivables. 

The Group applies the IFRS 9 simplified model of recognising lifetime expected credit losses for all trade receivables as these items 
do not have a significant financing component. In measuring the expected credit losses, the trade receivables have been assessed on 
a collective basis as they possess shared credit risk characteristics, for example, the Group have a significant number of government 
contracts which we consider to be lower credit risk than corporate entities.

The expected loss rates are based on a review of historical customer payment profiles as well as the corresponding historical credit 
losses during that period. The historical rates are adjusted to reflect current and forwarding looking macroeconomic factors affecting 
the customer’s ability to settle the amount outstanding.

Trade receivables are written off (ie derecognised) when there is no reasonable expectation of recovery. Usually this occurs when 
the customer goes into administration or ceases trading.

82

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

24

Financial instruments (continued)

Ageing of trade receivables and expected credit loss provision:

31 May 2021 
Trade receivables, gross 
Expected credit loss provision 

31 May 2020 
Trade receivables, gross 
Expected credit loss provision 

0-30 
£’000 

8,531 
(44) 

8,487 

   10,236  
(21) 

10,215 

Trade receivables aged from invoice date

31-60 
£’000 

3,211 
(19) 

3,192 

3,098  
(5)  

3,093 

61-120 
£’000 

121-360 
£’000 

>360 
£’000 

1,592 
(10) 

1,582 

1,500  
(11)  

1,489 

863 
(42) 

821 

1,039  
(91)  

948 

312 
(60) 

252 

515  
(91)  

424 

Total
£’000

14,509

(175) 

14,334

16,388 
(219) 

16,169

The Directors consider that the carrying amount of trade and other receivables approximates to fair value.

The average credit period taken on sales of goods is 43 days (2020: 31 days) in respect of the Group. No interest is generally charged 
on the receivables until legal action is taken. Thereafter, interest is charged at 8% above bank base rate on the outstanding balance.

The  Company  has  £4.2m  receivable  from  JTC  Employer  Solutions  Trustee  Limited  (note  34)  this  is  supported  by  the  JTC’s 
shareholding as disclosed on page 22. The Company regularly reviews this in comparison with the current share price for any credit 
risk. The amounts owed by group undertakings (note 17) is reviewed regularly against financial forecasts for any credit risk.

Liquidity risk management

The Group funds acquisitions through a mixture of cash, equity and long-term debt.  Short term financing needs are met by working 
capital facilities.

The Group manages its liquidity needs by carefully monitoring scheduled debt servicing payments for long term financial liabilities 
as well as cash-outflows due in day-to-day business. Liquidity needs are monitored in various time bands, on a day-to-day and 
week-to-week  basis,  as  well  as  on  the  basis  of  a  monthly  13  week  projection.  Long-term  liquidity  needs  for  up  to  a  two-year 
period are projected monthly and reviewed quarterly. The Group maintains cash and working capital facilities to meet its liquidity 
requirements  for  up  to  30-day  periods.  Funding  in  regards  to  long-term  liquidity  needs  is  additionally  secured  by  an  adequate 
amount of committed credit facilities. 

Details about the maturity of financial liabilities can be found in note 22 Financial assets and liabilities and note 23 Lease liabilities.

All facilities are secured on the assets of the Group.

83

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

25

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 period.

Accelerated 
tax 
depreciation 
£’000 

Intangibles 
£’000 

Other
temporary
differences 
£’000 

Tax losses 
£’000 

Total
£’000

At 1 June 2019 
Arising on fair value adjustments on business  
combinations 
On acquisition of Energy Steel 
Reclassification  
Credit to income – continuing operations 
Credit to income – discontinued operations 
Charge/credit to other comprehensive income 

At 1 June 2020 
Arising on fair value adjustments on business  
combinations 
Credit to income – continuing operations 
Credit to income – discontinued operations 
Charge/credit to other comprehensive income 
Disposals – discontinued operations 

At 31 May 2021 

(332) 

1,920 

485 

(1,423) 

– 
– 
810 
24 
19 
– 

521 

– 
(195) 
88 
– 
287 

701 

386 
– 
– 
(328) 
5 
– 

1,983 

836 
167 
(30) 
– 
(258) 

2,698 

– 
(16) 
(810) 
254 
– 
43 

(44) 

– 
150 
24 
(49) 
(24) 

57 

650

386
(16)
–
128
28
43

– 
– 
– 
178 
4 
– 

(1,241) 

1,219

– 
(526) 
(353) 
– 
353 

836
(404)
(271)
(49)
358

(1,767) 

1,689

Certain deferred tax assets and liabilities have been offset where the relevant criteria are met. The following is the analysis of the 
deferred tax balances (after offset) for financial reporting purposes:

Deferred tax assets 
Deferred tax liabilities 

2021 
£’000 

1,767 
(3,456) 

(1,689) 

2020
£’000

1,241
(2,460)

(1,219)

At the balance sheet date the Group has unused tax losses of £22.6 million (2020: £32.6 million) available for offset against future 
profits. A deferred tax asset has been recognised in respect of £6.1 million (2020: £6.5 million) of such losses. 

Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that taxable profits will be available in future against which 
deductible temporary differences can be utilised. This is assessed based on the Group’s forecast of future operating results and the 
future projected profitability of entities within the Group. In addition the Group has an unrecognised deferred tax asset of £56k 
(2020: £30k) in respect of share based payments.

At the balance sheet date the aggregate amount of temporary differences associated with undistributed earnings of subsidiaries for 
which deferred tax liabilities have not been recognised was £nil (2020: £nil). No liability has been recognised in respect of these 
differences because the Group is in a position to control the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences and it is probable that 
such differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

84

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

26

Called up share capital

                                                                                                                                          2021                                            2020

Allotted, issued and fully paid 
Ordinary shares of 5p each 

No. 

£’000 

No. 

31,971,307 

1,599 

31,752,861 

Reconciliation of movement in allotted, issued and fully paid share capital

At 1 June 2019 and 31 May 2020 
Shares issued in period to Acquisition   
Shares issued on exercise of share options (note 27) 

At 31 May 2021 

No. 

31,752,861 
40,713 
177,733 

31,971,307 

£’000

1,588

£’000

1,588
2
9

1,599

The Company has a share option scheme under which options to subscribe for the Company’s shares have been awarded to certain 
directors and employees. During the year 686,733 options were exercised, 39,733, 179,000, 74,000, 333,000, 55,500, and 8,500 at 
39.5p, 176.0p, 177.5p, 181.5p, 193.0p and 218.5p respectively. The market price on the day of exercise was between 244.0p and 
370.0p. Further details of the scheme are given in note 27.

Shares issued in period to acquisition relate to the reorganisation of SciMag prior to the acquisition with Magnetica in which the 
intercompany loan was cancelled in exchange for shares.

The market price of the Company’s shares at the end of the year was 335.0p (2020: 233.0p). The highest and lowest market prices 
during the year were 211.0p and 370.0p (2020: 330.0p and 185.0p respectively).

27

Share-based payments

The Group has recognised a portion of the fair value of these options in calculating the profit for the current and prior year. 

Outstanding at the start of the year 
Lapsed during the year 
Issued during the year 
Exercised during the year 

Outstanding at the end of the year 

Exercisable at the end of the year 

2021 

2020

Weighted 
Average 
Exercise 
price p 

207.36 
254.53 
288.00 
172.81 

234.51 

191.86 

Options 
(No. ‘000) 

2,577.7 
126.5 
585.0 
317.5 

2,718.7 

1,284.7 

Weighted
Average
Exercise
price p

183.99
198.23
267.00
131.18

207.36

185.32

Options 
(No. ‘000) 

2,718.7 
17.5 
594.5 
686.7 

2,609.0 

1,040.5 

The options outstanding at 31 May 2021 had exercise prices in the range 109.0p to 288.0p and a weighted average remaining 
contractual life of 7.4 years (2020: 7.3 years). The average market share price of options at date of exercise was 330.36p (2020: 
267.74p).

Of the 686,600 options exercised in the period 177,773 resulted in the issue of new shares, the balance relates to options under the 
Exsop scheme which are issued on inception (see Note 34).

85

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

27

Share-based payments (Continued)

The terms of these options are as follows:    

Date of grant  

Options 
outstanding at 
31 May 2021 

22/11/2013 

3,000 

Vesting 
period 

3 years 

9/12/2014 

8,000 

3 years 

21/12/2016 

999,500 

3 years 

15/12/2017 

30,000 

3 years 

15/11/2018 

117,000 

3 years 

15/11/2018 

285,000 

3 years 

17/12/2019 

572,000 

3 years 

24/11/2020 

594,500 

3 years 

Market value at
date of grant 
 (p) 

Exercise 
price (p) 

Exercise period

176.00 

109.00 

193.00 

177.50 

218.50 

220.00 

267.00 

288.00 

176.00 

109.00 

193.00 

177.50 

218.50 

220.00 

267.00 

288.00 

23/12/2016 to
22/12/2023

10/12/2017 to
9/12/2024

22/12/2019 to
21/12/2026

16/12/2020 to
15/12/2027

16/11/2021 to
15/11/2028

16/11/2021 to
15/11/2028

17/12/2022 to
16/12/2029

24/11/2023 to
20/11/2030

The performance condition for each of these options is that the increase in adjusted EPS must be at least equal to the increase in RPI 
over the vesting period. 

All share options are equity settled. The adjusted EPS is the basic earnings per share published in the Preliminary Announcement 
of Results with adjustments made for amortisation of acquisition related intangibles costs of share based payments, and exceptional 
items agreed by the Remuneration Committee.  Further adjustments to the above performance conditions may be approved by the 
Remuneration Committee to reflect future changes in accounting standards. 

The fair value of the options was calculated by external consultants, Pegg, Franklin & Co and Pinsent Masons.

Options granted with performance conditions are valued using the Black-Scholes model.

For all awards, recipients are required to remain in employment with the Group over the vesting period.

Future volatility at the date of grant has been estimated by reference to the historical volatility at that time.

The expected life used in the models has been adjusted, based on management’s best estimate, for the effects of non-transferability, 
exercise restrictions and behavioural considerations.

Total charge to the income statement in respect of share-based payments

In respect of: 
Equity settled share options 

2021 
£’000 

133 

2020
£’000

112

There  are  no  share-based  payment  transactions  that  were  expensed  immediately. A  deferred  tax  credit  of  £nil  (2020:  £nil)  was 
recognised during the year in respect of share-based payments.

86

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

28

Pensions and other employee obligations

Within the UK the Group operates a defined benefit plan with benefits linked to final salary and a defined contribution plan. 

The  defined  benefit  pension  arrangement,  called  the  Hayward Tyler  Pension  Plan  (the  “Plan”),  and  provides  benefits  based  on 
final salary and length of service on retirement, leaving service or death. With effect from 1 June 2003 the Plan was closed to new 
UK employees and to future service accrued for existing members who are offered membership of the defined contribution plan. 
The majority of UK employees are members of one of these arrangements. The method used in assessing the Plan liabilities is the 
projected unit method. 

The Plan is subject to the Statutory Funding Objective under the Pensions Act 2004. A valuation of the Plan is carried out at least 
once every three years to determine whether the Statutory Funding Objective is being met. As part of the process the Company must 
agree with the trustees of the Plan the contributions to be paid to meet the Statutory Funding Objective. 

The most recent comprehensive actuarial valuation of the Plan was carried out as at 1 January 2020 and the next valuation of the 
Plan is due as at 1 January 2023. In the event that the valuation reveals a larger deficit than expected the Company may be required 
to increase contributions above those set out in the existing Schedule of Contributions. Conversely, if the position is better than 
expected, it’s possible that contributions may be reduced. 

The Company expects to pay contributions of £282,000 in the year to 31 May 2022 based on the current Schedule of Contributions 
dated 30 March 2021.

The Plan is managed by a board of trustees appointed in part by the Company and in part from elections by members of the Plan. 
The board of trustees includes a professional trustee (Independent Trustee Services Limited). The trustees have responsibility for 
obtaining valuations of the fund, administering benefit payments and investing the Plan’s assets. The trustees delegate some of these 
functions to their professional advisers where appropriate.

The Plan exposes the Company to a number of risks:

• 

• 

Investment risk
The Plan holds investments in asset classes, such as equities, which have volatile market values and, while these assets are 
expected to provide real returns over the long-term, the short-term volatility can cause additional funding to be required if a 
deficit emerges;

Interest rate risk 
The Plan’s liabilities are assessed using market yields on high quality corporate bonds to discount the liabilities. As the Plan 
holds assets such as equities the value of the assets and liabilities may not move in the same way;

Inflation risk 

• 
  A significant proportion of the benefits under the Plan are linked to inflation. Although the Plan’s assets are expected to provide 

a good hedge against inflation over the long-term, movements over the short-term could lead to deficits emerging;

•  Member options
  Certain benefit options may be exercised by members without requiring the consent of the Trustees or the Company, for example 
exchanging  pension  for  cash  at  retirement.  In  this  example,  if  fewer  members  than  expected  exchange  pension  for  cash  at 
retirement then a funding strain will emerge;

•  Mortality risk 

In the event that members live longer than assumed a deficit will emerge in the Plan; and

•  Concentration risk 
  A significant proportion of the Plan’s liabilities are in respect of a single pensioner member. The development of the liabilities 

over time will therefore depend heavily on the actual experience in respect of this member.

There were no plan amendments, curtailments or settlements during the year (2020: nil).

Risk mitigation strategies

The  trustees  invest  the  Plan’s  assets  in  combination  of  Liability-Sensitive  assets  and  Return-Generating  assets.  The  Liability-
Sensitive assets are invested in a variety of LDI (Liability-Driven Investment) Funds. These funds invest in a combination of interest 
rate and inflation rate swaps in order to mimic the movement in expected cash flows of the Plan caused by changes in interest and 
inflation rates.

Profile of defined benefit obligation

The weighted average duration of the defined benefit obligation is 13 years.

87

 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

28

Pensions and other employee obligations (continued)

The Group’s defined benefit obligations and plan assets may be reconciled to the amounts presented on the face of the statement of 
financial position for each of the reporting periods under review as follows:

Defined benefit obligation 
Fair value of plan assets 

Net defined benefit asset 

Amounts recognised in the income statement during the year are shown in the table below.

Interest on liabilities 
Interest on assets 

Total credit to income statement 

Scheme liabilities

The defined benefit obligations for the reporting years under review are as follows:

Defined benefit obligation at start of year 
Interest cost 
Changes to demographic assumptions 
Changes to financial assumptions 
Experience/(gain)on liabilities  
Benefits paid 

Defined benefits obligation at end of year 

Discount rate 
Expected rate of pension increases 
Inflation assumption 
Mortality assumption 

Group

At 31 May 
2021 
£’000 

At 31 May 
2020
£’000

(13,116) 
14,400 

(13,531)
15,177

1,284 

1,646

Group

At 31 May 
2021 
£’000 

At 31 May 
2020
£’000

197 
(224) 

(27) 

282
(315)

(33)

Group

At 31 May 
2021 
£’000 

At 31 May 
2020
£’000

13,531 
197 
424 
126 
(402) –
(760) 

12,930
282
(352)
1,429

(758)

13,116 

13,531

Group

At 31 May 
2021 
£’000 

At 31 May 
2020
£’000

1.95% 
3.10% 
3.45% 

   1.50%
2.40%
3.05%
S3PFA CMI  S2PXA CMI

S3PFA CMI – for males and females projected on a year of birth basis using CMI (2020) projections with a long-term rate of 
improvement of 1.25% per annum. The mortality assumptions imply the following life expectancies:

•  Life expectancy at age 65 of male aged 45 
•  Life expectancy at age 65 of male aged 65 
•  Life expectancy at age 65 of female aged 45 
•  Life expectancy at age 65 of female aged 65 

21.0
19.7
25.1
23.6

88

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

28

Pensions and other employee obligations (continued)

These assumptions were developed by management under consideration of expert advice provided by Barnett Waddingham, independent 
actuarial appraisers. These assumptions have led to the amounts determined as the Group’s defined benefit obligations for the reporting 
years under review and should be regarded as management’s best estimate. However, the actual outcome may vary. 

No assumption is made with regard to the expected rate of salary increases as there are no members with benefits related to future salary 
progression.

The current asset spilt is as follows:

Multi-asset growth portfolio 
Gilts and LDI 
Cash 

Total assets 

The remeasurement recorded in other comprehensive income is as follows:

Loss/(gain) on scheme assets in excess of interest 
Loss/(gain) from changes to demographic assumptions 
Experience/(gains)on liabilities 
Loss from changes to financial assumptions 

Total loss/(gain) recognised in other comprehensive income 

Sensitivity of the value placed on the liabilities

Reduce discount rate by 0.1% p.a. 
Increase inflation and related assumption by 0.1% p.a. 
Increase a long-term rate of longevity improvement by 0.25% p.a. 
Apply a 90% loading to the mortality base table (reduces probability of death by 10% at each age) 

Group

At 31 May 
2021 
£’000 

At 31 May 
2020
£’000

7,474 
6,672 
254 

6,813
7,647
717

14,400 

15,177

Group

At 31 May 
2021 
£’000 

At 31 May 
2020
£’000

514 
424 
(402) –
126 

662 

(1,135)
(352)

1,429

(58)

Approximate
effect on
liabilities

£170,000
£114,000
£101,000
£576,000

Note that the above sensitivities are approximate and only show the likely effect of an assumption being adjusted whilst all other 
assumptions remain the same.

Effect of the Plan on Group’s future cash flows

The Group is required to agree a Schedule of Contributions with the Trustees of the Plan following a valuation which must be carried 
out at least once every three years. The next valuation of the Plan is due by 1 April 2023. In the event that the valuation reveals a 
larger deficit than expected the Company may be required to increase contributions above those set out in the existing schedule of 
contributions. Conversely, if the position is better than expected contributions may be reduced.

89

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

29

Notes to the consolidated cash flow statement

Cash flows from operating activities:

Continuing operations
Profit/(loss) before income tax from continuing operations 
(Loss)/profit before income tax from discontinuing operations before disposal 
Adjustments for: 
Depreciation 
Amortisation of intangible assets 
Amortisation of intangibles from business combinations 
Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment 
Finance income 
Finance expenses 
Share based payment charge 

Changes in working capital 
Decrease in inventories 
Increase in trade and other receivables 
Increase/(decrease) in trade and other payables 
Decrease in provisions 
Other non cash changes 

Cash flows from operating activities 

Cash and cash equivalents 
Cash  
Overdrafts 

30

Notes to the company cash flow statement

Continuing operations 
Loss before income tax from continuing operations 
Adjustments for: 
Finance income 
Finance expenses 
Share based payment charge 
Investment provision 

Changes in working capital 
Increase in trade and other receivables 
Decrease in trade and other payables 
Other non-cash changes 

Cash flow from operating activities 

90

2021 
£’000 

5,447 
(1,732) 

3,461 
545 
1,008 
6 
(73) 
711 
133 

1,468 
(5,108) 
1,457 
(457) 
11 

6,877 

2021 
£’000 

30,078 
(342) 

29,736 

2021 
£’000 

(2,308) 

(436) 
8 
58 
– 

(46) 
(159) 
1 2

2020 
£’000

(69)
1,889

4,343
466
2,222
119
(38)
1,141
112

2,157
(5,010)
(3,565)
(824)
(24)

2,919

2020 
£’000

5,088
(395)

4,693

2020 
£’000

(535)

(674)
14
46
155

(776)
(1,715)

(2,882) 

(3,483)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

31

Reconciliation of liabilities arising from finance activities

Group 

At 1 June 2019 
Cash flows: 
Repayments 
New borrowings 
Non-cash: 
New leases 
Acquisition of subsidiary undertakings 
Amortisation of finance fees 
Exchange adjustments 
Reclassification 

At 31 May 2020 

At 1 June 2020 
Cash flows: 
Repayments 
New borrowings 
Non-cash: 
New leases 
Disposal of subsidiary undertakings 
Amortisation of finance fees 
Exchange adjustments 
Reclassification 

Long-term 
borrowings  
£’000 

Short-term 
borrowings 
£’000 

Lease
liabilities 
£’000 

Overdraft 
£’000 

Total
£’000

3,816 

4,089 

11,901 

856 

20,662

– 
820 

– 
– 
10 
– 
(681) 

3,965 

3,965 

(675) 
1,466 

(2,200) 
– 

(679) 
209 

– 
– 
20 
29 
681 

1,313 
391 
– 
60 
– 

5,610 

11,465 

5,610 

11,465 

– 
– 
– 
9 
– 

395 

395 

(3,554)
2,495

1,313
391
30
98
–

21,435

21,435 

                – 
                 – 

(4,397)  
             149  

(1,993)  

(2)  

             – 

                 – 

         (6,392) 
             149 

– 
 – 
 – 
(1)  
(596)  

– 
– 
 22  
(162)  
 596  

780 
(5,536)  
 –    
(441)  
–    

– 
 – 
– 
(51)  
 –    

780
(5,536)
 22 
(655) 
 –   

 9,803 

At 31 May 2021 

 3,368  

 1,818  

 4,275  

 342  

Company 

At 1 June 2019 
Cash flows: 
Repayments 
Non-cash: 
Amortisation of finance fees 
Reclassification 

At 1 June 2020 
Cash flows: 
Repayments 
Non-cash: 
Amortisation of finance fees 
Reclassification 

At 31 May 2021 

32

Related party transactions

Long-term 
borrowings  
£’000 

Short-term 
borrowings 
£’000 

Lease
liabilities 
£’000 

Overdraft 
£’000 

Total
£’000

536 

– 

– 
(166) 

370 

180 

(167) 

2 
166 

181 

– 

(120) 

(1) 
(120) 

249 

– 
120 

181 

– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

716

(167)

2
–

551

(120)

(1)

431

Company
The Directors benefited from dividends paid in the year (note 10) on their shareholdings as set out in the Directors report page 22.

91

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

32

Related party transactions (continued)

Transactions with Magnetica Ltd its subsidiaries following the acquisition 58.1% of Magnetica Ltd (29 January 2021) were as 
follows:

Recharges to Magnetica and Subsidiaries  

Balances outstanding as at 31 May  

Inter-company balance owed by Magnetica and Subsidiaries 

Inter-company balance owed to Magnetica and Subsidiaries  

Group 
2021 
£’000 

4 

1 

118 

Company
2021
£’000

3

–

118

As part of the original Sale & Purchase Agreement, on 30 April 2021 4,651,861shares in Magnetica Ltd were issued to Avingtrans 
plc for £388,341 resulting in Avingtrans holding increasing to 58.1%.

33

Financial commitments

Capital commitments
Commitments for capital expenditure were as follows:

Contracted for, but not provided in the accounts 

34

Investment in own shares

2021 
£’000 

566 

2020
£’000

–

On 22 June 2011 the Company approved, adopted and established the Avingtrans Employees’ Share Trust (‘the ExSOP Trust).  A 
summary of the Trust Deed is as follows:

It has been established that the original trustee is JTC Employer Solutions Trustee Limited

• 
•  The primary objective of the ExSOP Trust is to hold the capital and income of the Trust for the beneficiaries
•  The beneficiaries and the Trustee jointly subscribe for an initial interest in the shares purchased by the Trust 
• 

If the performance condition as set out in note 27 is achieved the option can be exercised by the beneficiaries  

During the year Nil (2020: 303,308) shares were purchased at a cost of £Nil (2020: £809,832) by the Trust and beneficiaries, an 
interest in which was allocated to the Executive Directors as beneficiaries (NIL FY21 note 27). All shares held by the trust are under 
option to Directors. Costs are charged to profit and loss as incurred. The above holdings are held at a cost of £4,235,000 (2020: 
£4,235,000) and shown as a deduction from equity in the statement of changes in shareholders’ equity.

92

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

35

Acquisitions and disposals 

Business combination – Magnetica Limited
On 29 January 2021, the Group acquired 58.1% of the shares in Magnetica Ltd in exchange for its 98.5% shareholding in Scientific 
Magnetics  Limited  plus  deferred  cash  consideration.  Prior  to  exchange Avingtrans  capitalised  its  £4,097,000  loan  to  Scientific 
Magnetics Limited for an increase in its shareholding to 98.5%. Post-acquisition Scientific Magnetics Limited will be a subsidiary 
of the Magnetica Limited.

Magnetica Limited is an Australian medtech and engineering company which specialises in next-generation MRI technologies. By 
bringing together Scientific Magnetics Limited and Magnetica Limited management can accelerate the development of compact 
MRI systems. 

Scientific Magnetics Limited owns 100% of the common stock of Tecmag Inc, a subsidiary based in Texas which specialises in 
spectrometer design and manufacture. 

The fair value of Magnetica’s net assets at the date of acquisition were as follows:

Property, plant and equipment 
Intangible assets 
Inventories 
Trade and other receivables 
Cash 
Trade and other payables 
Deferred tax liability 

Net assets 
Goodwill  

Goodwill and consideration on acquisition: 
Fair value of business given in consideration 
Deferred consideration 
Non-controlling interest in relation to Magnetica 
Less fair value of assets and liabilities acquired 

Goodwill 

£’000

306
3,119
42
23
349
(197)
(858)

2,784
324

3,108

1,785
157
1,167
(2,784)                                                                  

324

We have calculated the fair value of the business given in consideration using a discounted cash flow model. In exchange for the 
58.1% shareholding in Magnetica the gave up 40.4% of our interest in Scientific Magnetics and its subsidiary, Tecmag. The 40.4% 
is  the  difference  between  the  original  ownership  in  Scientific  Magnetics  (98.5%)  and  the  acquired  shareholding  in  Magnetica 
(58.1%). To calculate the value Scientific Magnetics and Tecmag, have prepared detailed cash flow forecasts on a standalone basis 
for a 2-year period beyond the acquisition date. Beyond the forecast period we have assumed a 3.4% revenue growth rate based on 
historical trends. Cash flows have been discounted at a rate of 13.7%

As part of the sales agreement, Avingtrans were required to make an additional cash injection of £388,000. The deferred consideration 
value is calculated by multiplying this cash injection by 40.4%. The deferred cash consideration was paid in the financial year. 

Non-controlling interest has been calculated using the proportionate share of net assets approach.

93

 
 
 
              
 
                                         
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

35

Acquisitions and disposals (Continued)

The impact of the Magnetica acquisition on the Consolidated income statement is as follows:  

Revenue 
Cost of sales 

Gross profit 
Distribution costs 

Operating profit before amortisation of acquired intangibles, other non-underlying items and other exceptional items 
Acquisition related expenses 

Loss before tax 
Tax income 

Overall effect on the Consolidated Income Statement 

Since acquisition Magnetica contributed the following to the Group’s cashflows:

Net cash outflow from operating activities 
Net cash used by investing activities 
Net cash inflow from financing activities 

Discontinued operations – Peter Brotherhood Limited

£’000

47
(22)

25
(209)

(184)
(234)

(418)
–

(418)

£’000

(398)
(173)
–

a)  Description
  On 11 March 2021, Hayward Tyler Group PLC, subsidiary of the Avingtrans Group disposed of Peter Brotherhood Limited 
to Granite Holdings Global Limited. Peter Brotherhood Limited is reported as a discontinued operation. Financial information 
relating to the discontinued operation for the period to the date of disposal is set out below. In the prior year, management 
took the decision to close the Crown site near Bristol and relocate the residual road and rail infrastructure assets to Stainless 
Metalcraft. The financial results for this year are included in the table below.

b)  Financial performance and cash flow information

Revenue  
Expenses  

(Loss)/profit before income tax 
Income tax credit/(expense) 

(Loss)/profit after income tax of discontinued operations 
Gain on sale of the subsidiary after income tax   

Profit from discontinued operations 

Net cash flow from operations 
Net cash flow from investing activities 
Net cash flow from financing activities 

Net increase/(decrease) in cash generated 

94

2021 
£’000 

8,354 
(10,086) 

(1,732) 
489 

(1,243) 
23,379 –

22,136 

2021 
£’000 

(2,314) 
26,618 
(383) 

23,921 

2020
£’000

22,697
(20,808)

1,889
(406)

1,483

1,483

2020
£’000

2,624
(595)
(4,472)

(2,443)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

35

Acquisitions and disposals (Continued)

c)  Details of the sale of the subsidiary

Cash consideration 
Adjustment for cash on disposal 
Disposal expenses 

Net cash impact from disposal 

d)  Profit on the sale of the subsidiary

Net cash impact from disposal 
Adjustment for cash on disposal 
Net assets 

Profit on disposal of subsidiary 

The carrying amount of assets and liabilities at the date of sale were:

Goodwill 
Other intangible assets 
Property, plant and equipment 
Deferred tax asset 
Inventories 
Trade and other receivables 
Current tax assets 
Cash and cash equivalents 

Total assets 

Trade and other payables 
Deferred tax liability 
Lease liabilities 
Provisions 

Total liabilities 

Net assets 

2021
£’000

30,636
(1,573)
(2,428)

26,635

2021
£’000

26,636
1,573
(4,830)

23,379

2021
£’000

2,521
1,464
6,610
617
1,285
3,026
248
1,573

17,344

(4,169)
(257)
(5,536)
(2,552)

(12,514)

4,830

e)  Reconciliation of enterprise value to equity value (cash consideration)

The disposal was made using a locked box mechanism which fixes the price payable on completion by reference to the net debt and 
working capital on an agreed point in time (the “locked box date”).

Enterprise value 
Normalised working capital 
Cash 
Lease liabilities 
Deferred capital expenditure 
Other items 

Equity value / cash consideration 

£’000

35,000
(1,043)
1,877
(5,649)
(446)
897

30,636

95

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2021

36

Non-controlling interest (NCI)

During the year the Group acquired 58.1% of the issued shares of Magnetica Limited in exchange for the Group’s shareholding in 
Scientific Magnetics Limited and its subsidiary, Tecmag Inc. The Group had no non-controlling interests in the prior year.

Set out below is summarised financial information for each subsidiary that has non-controlling interests that are material to the 
group. The amounts disclosed are before intercompany eliminations.

Summarised statement of financial position:

Current assets 
Current liabilities 

Current net assets 

Non-current assets 
Non-current liabilities 

Non-current net assets 

Net assets 

Accumulated NCI 

Summarised statement of comprehensive income:

Revenue 

Profit for the period 
Other comprehensive income 

Total comprehensive income 

Profits allocated to NCI 

Dividends paid to NCI 

Summarised cash flows:

Cash flow from operating activities 
Cash flow from investing activities 
Cash flow from financing activities 

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 

31 May 21
£’000

1,697
(1,534)

163

4,751
(938)

3,813

3,976

1,665

2021
£’000

1,929

(607)
–

(607) 

(166) 

–

2021
£’000

(467)
(530)
418

(579)

At the time of acquisition, the Group signed a subscription agreement with Magnetica Limited which allowed them to draw-down 
additional funding from Avingtrans plc in exchange for the issue of new shares. The subscription of shares is conditional upon 
Magnetica and its subsidiaries spend against on the compact MRI project. The total amount they can draw down is AUD$3,692,000, 
or £2,010,000 when translated at the year-end exchange rate. 

96

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notice of Annual General Meeting

Notice is hereby given that the virtual Annual General Meeting of Avingtrans plc will be held at Shakespeare Martineau LLP, 
No1 Colmore Square, Birmingham, B4 6AA on 18 November 2021 at 11:00am for the following purposes:

Shareholders are encouraged to vote electronically via www.signalshares.com, and to appoint the Chair of the Meeting as their 
proxy with their voting instructions prior to the meeting. Votes received should be submitted to the Registrar before 11:00am on 
the 16 November 2021.

To consider, and if thought fit, to pass the following resolutions numbered 1 to 5 as ordinary resolutions

1.  1. To receive and adopt the reports of the Directors and the auditor and the financial statements for the year ended 31 May 

2021.

2.  To declare a final dividend of 4.0p per ordinary share payable on 10 December 2021 payable to shareholders on the register 

of members on 29 October 2021.

3.  To re-elect Stephen King as a Director.

4.  To re-elect Les Thomas as a Director.

5.  To reappoint Grant Thornton UK LLP as auditor of the Company to hold office until the conclusion of the next general 

meeting at which accounts are laid before the Company and that their remuneration to be fixed by the Directors. 

To transact any other ordinary business of an Annual General Meeting and as special business to consider the following 
Resolutions, Resolution 6 being proposed as Ordinary Resolutions and Resolution 7 as a Special Resolutions. 

6.  That the Directors be generally and unconditionally authorised to exercise all the powers of the Company to allot relevant 
securities as defined in Section 551 of the Companies Act 2006 (the “Act”) up to an aggregate nominal value of £528,368 
provided that this authority shall expire in whichever is the earlier of the conclusion of the next Annual General Meeting 
of the Company or the date falling 15 months from the date of the passing of this Resolution, except that the Company 
may before such expiry make an offer or agreement which would or might require relevant securities in pursuance of any 
such offer or agreement as if the authority conferred by this Resolution had not expired, and that this authority shall be in 
substitution for all previous authorities conferred upon the Directors pursuant to section 551 of the Act. 

7.  That the Company be generally and unconditionally authorised, in accordance with Article 9 of its Articles of Association 
and Section 701 of the Act to make market purchases (within the meaning of Section 693 of the Act) of ordinary shares of 5p 
each 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 authorised to be purchased is 3,202,232;

b. 

c. 

the minimum price which may be paid for an ordinary share is 5p (exclusive of expenses and advance corporation tax, if 
any, payable by the Company); 

the maximum price which may be paid for an ordinary share is an amount equal to 105% of the average of the middle 
market quotations for an ordinary share of the Company derived from the London Stock Exchange for the five business 
days  immediately  preceding  the  day  on  which  the  ordinary  share  is  purchased  (exclusive  of  expenses  and  advance 
corporation tax, if any, payable by the Company); and 

d. 

the authority conferred shall expire at the conclusion of the next Annual General Meeting of the Company except that 
the Company may, prior to such expiry, make a contract to purchase its own shares which will or may be completed or 
executed wholly or partly after such expiry. 

8.  That the Directors be empowered pursuant to Section 571 of the Act to allot equity securities (as defined in Section 560(1) 
of the Act) for cash pursuant to the authority conferred upon them by Resolution 7 as if Section 561 of the Act did not apply 
to any such allotment provided that such power shall be limited:

a. 

b. 

to the allotment of equity securities in connection with a rights issue or other offer in favour of holders of ordinary shares 
where the equity securities respectively attributable to the interests of all the ordinary shareholders are proportionate 
(as  nearly  as  may  be)  to  the  respective  number  of  ordinary  shares  held  by  them  subject  to  such  exclusions  or  other 
arrangements as the Directors may consider appropriate to deal with fractional entitlements or legal or practical difficulties 
under the laws of any territory or the requirements of a regulatory body; and

to the allotment (otherwise than pursuant to sub-paragraph (a) above) of equity securities up to an aggregate nominal 
amount of £160,112 and shall expire on whichever is the earlier of the conclusion of the next Annual General Meeting of 
the Company or the date falling 15 months from the date of the passing of this Resolution, except 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 such offer or agreement as if the power conferred by 
this Resolution had not expired. 

97

 
Notice of Annual General Meeting (Continued)

By order of the Board

S M King 

28 September 2021 

Registered office 
Chatteris Business Park
Chatteris
Cambridgeshire
PE16 6SA

98

 
 
 
 
Notice of Annual General Meeting (Continued)

Avingtrans Plc

Notes to the Annual Report for the year ended 31 May 2021:

Entitlement to attend and vote

1.  Only those members registered on the Company’s register of members at close of business on 16 November 2021; or if this 
Meeting is adjourned, at close of business on the day two days prior to the adjourned meeting shall be entitled to attend and 
vote. The Company encourages shareholders to vote electronically via www.signalshares.com, and to appoint the Chair of the 
Meeting as their proxy with their voting instructions.

Attending in person

2.  If you wish to attend the Meeting in person, please bring photographic identification with you to the meeting.

Voting 

3.  You can vote either:

•  by logging on to www.signalshares.com and following the instructions;

•  You may request a hard copy form of proxy directly from the registrars, Link Asset Services (previously called Capita), on 
Tel: 0371 664 0300. Calls are charged at the standard geographic rate and will vary by provider. Calls outside the United 
Kingdom will be charged at the applicable international rate. Lines are open between 09:00 - 17:30, Monday to Friday 
excluding public holidays in England and Wales).

• 

in  the  case  of  CREST  members,  by  utilising  the  CREST  electronic  proxy  appointment  service  in  accordance  with  the 
procedures set out below.

Appointment of proxies

4.   Shareholders are entitled to appoint another person as a proxy to exercise all or part of their rights to attend and to speak and 
vote on their behalf at the Meeting. As set out in note 1 above, the Company encourages shareholders to appoint the Chair of the 
Meeting as their proxy with their voting instructions. A shareholder may appoint more than one proxy in relation to the Meeting 
provided that each proxy is appointed to exercise the rights attached to a different ordinary share or ordinary shares held by that 
shareholder. A proxy need not be a shareholder of the Company. 

5.   If you are not a member of the Company but you have been nominated by a member of the Company to enjoy information 
rights, you do not have a right to appoint any proxies under the procedures set out in this “Appointment of proxies” section. 

6.   A vote withheld is not a vote in law, which means that the vote will not be counted in the calculation of votes for or against the 
resolution. If no voting indication is given, your proxy will vote or abstain from voting at his or her discretion. Your proxy will 
vote (or abstain from voting) as he or she thinks fit in relation to any other matter which is put before the Meeting.

Appointment of proxy electronically

7.  In order to reduce the Company’s environmental impact, members are encouraged to appoint a proxy electronically. This can be 

done by:

• 

logging onto www.signalshares.com and submitting a proxy appointment online by following the instructions. If you have 
not previously done so, you will need to register. To do this, you will need your Investor Code detailed on your share 
certificate (or otherwise available from the Company’s registrar, Link Asset Services); or 

• 

submitting (if you are a CREST member) a proxy appointment electronically by using the CREST voting service. 

Please note that proxy appointments must be received by no later than 1100 a.m. on 16 November 2021 to be valid.

Appointment of proxy using hard copy proxy form

8.   To appoint a proxy using the hard copy proxy form, the form must be completed and signed and sent or delivered to Link Group, 
Central Square, 10th Floor, 29 Wellington Street, Leeds, LS1 4DL; and received by Link Asset Services of PXS, 34 Beckenham 
Road, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 4TU no later than 11:00am on 16 November 2021.

In the case of a member which is a company, the proxy form must be executed under its common seal or signed on its behalf by 
an officer of the company or an attorney for the company.

  Any power of attorney or any other authority under which the proxy form is signed (or a duly certified copy of such power or 

authority) must be included with the proxy form.

Appointment of proxy by joint members

9.  In the case of joint holders, where more than one of the joint holders purports to appoint a proxy, only the appointment submitted 
by the most senior holder will be accepted. Seniority is determined by the order in which the names of the joint holders appear 
in the Company’s register of members in respect of the joint holding (the first-named being the most senior).

99

 
Notice of Annual General Meeting (Continued)

Changing proxy instructions

10.  To change your proxy instructions simply submit a new proxy appointment using the methods set out above. Note that the 
cut-off time for receipt of proxy appointments (see above) also apply in relation to amended instructions; any amended proxy 
appointment received after the relevant cut-off time will be disregarded.

  Where you have appointed a proxy using the hard-copy proxy form and would like to change the instructions using another 

hard-copy proxy form, please contact Link Group, Central Square, 10th Floor, 29 Wellington Street, Leeds, LS1 4DL.

If you submit more than one valid proxy appointment, the appointment received last before the latest time for the receipt of 
proxies will take precedence.

Termination of proxy appointments

11.  In order to revoke a proxy instruction you will need to inform the Company using one of the following methods:

•  By sending a signed hard copy notice clearly stating your intention to revoke your proxy appointment Link Group, Central 

Square, 10th Floor, 29 Wellington Street, Leeds, LS1 4DL.

• 

In the case of a member which is a company, the revocation notice must be executed under its common seal or signed   on 
its behalf by an officer of the company or an attorney for the company. Any power of attorney or any other  
authority under which the revocation notice is signed (or a duly certified copy of such power or authority) must be  
included with the revocation notice.

In either case, the revocation notice must be received by the Link Group, Central Square, 10th Floor, 29 Wellington Street, 
Leeds, LS1 4DL. no later than 16 November 2021 at 11.00am.

Crest 

12. CREST members who wish to appoint a proxy or proxies through the CREST electronic proxy appointment service may do 
so for the Meeting (and any adjournment of the Meeting) by using the procedures described in the CREST Manual (available 
from www.euroclear.com/site/public/EUI). CREST Personal Members or other CREST sponsored members, and those CREST 
members who have appointed a service provider(s), should refer to their CREST sponsor or voting service provider(s), who will 
be able to take the appropriate action on their behalf.

13. In order for a proxy appointment or instruction made by means of CREST to be valid, the appropriate CREST message (a 
‘CREST Proxy Instruction’) must be properly authenticated in accordance with Euroclear UK & Ireland Limited’s specifications 
and must contain the information required for such instructions, as described in the CREST Manual. The message must be 
transmitted so as to be received by the issuer’s agent (ID RA10) by 11:00am on the 16 November 2021. For this purpose, the 
time of receipt will be taken to mean the time (as determined by the timestamp applied to the message by the CREST application 
host) from which the issuer’s agent is able to retrieve the message by enquiry to CREST in the manner prescribed by CREST. 
After this time, any change of instructions to proxies appointed through CREST should be communicated to the appointee 
through other means.

14. CREST members and, where applicable, their CREST sponsors or voting service providers should note that Euroclear UK & 
Ireland Limited does not make available special procedures in CREST for any particular message. Normal system timings and 
limitations will, therefore, apply in relation to the input of CREST Proxy Instructions. It is the responsibility of the CREST 
member concerned to take (or, if the CREST member is a CREST personal member, or sponsored member, or has appointed 
a voting service provider(s), to procure that his CREST sponsor or voting service provider(s) take(s)) such action as shall be 
necessary to ensure that a message is transmitted by means of the CREST system by any particular time. In this connection, 
CREST members and, where applicable, their CREST sponsors or voting system providers are referred, in particular, to those 
sections of the CREST Manual concerning practical limitations of the CREST system and timings. The Company may treat 
as  invalid  a  CREST  Proxy  Instruction  in  the  circumstances  set  out  in  Regulation  35(5)(a)  of  the  Uncertificated  Securities 
Regulations 2001

Issued shares and total voting rights

15. As at 11:00 am on 28 September 2021, the Company’s issued share capital comprised 32,022,320 ordinary shares of 5p each. 
Each ordinary share carries the right to one vote at a general meeting of the Company and, therefore, the total number of voting 
rights in the Company as at 11.00am on 28 September 2021 is 32,022,320.

Documents on display

16. The following documents will be available for inspection at Chatteris Business Park, Chatteris, Cambridgeshire PE16 6SA from 

29 October 2021 until the time of the Meeting and for at least 15 minutes prior to the Meeting and during the Meeting:

•  Copies of the letters of appointment of the directors of the Company.

100

 
 
The Strategy 
in action
Pinpoint-Invest-Exit

Pinpoint
Strengthening the energy market portfolio

Acquisition of Magnetica 
In January 2021, the Group acquired a majority stake in Magnetica. The 
acquisition will see the Group’s two medical equipment businesses, 
Scientific Magnetics and Tecmag, merge with Magnetica.

Magnetica Limited is an Australian medtech and engineering company 
which specialises in next-generation MRI technologies. Combined with 
Avingtrans’ subsidiary SciMag – a UK-based business that designs, 
manufactures, tests and installs bespoke superconducting magnet systems 
– and its US subsidiary Tecmag, which manufactures instrumentation for 
NMR, NQR and MRI markets we have the inhouse capability to create an 
innovative, niche-MRI helium  free systems supplier addressing specific 
parts of the market, not well served by dedicated products at present 
including orthopaedic imaging and veterinary imaging.

Invest
Establishing world class capability

Booth site rationalisation and factory extension
A new strategic path for Booth changed the make vs 
buy criteria and led to some rationalisation. The Booth 
site rationalisation is close to completion and 
permission for a new extension has been obtained. The 
construction phase was delayed by Covid-19 and is due 
to be completed in FY22. Booth has a strong order 
book which is supporting positive structural investment 
for its future.

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   5

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   5

30/09/2021   11:57

30/09/2021   11:57

Exit
Returning share-holder value

“

Avingtrans is quietly confident 
about the current strategic 
direction and potential future 
Exit opportunities

Disposal of Peter Brotherhood
Peter Brotherhood was acquired for £9.3m as part of 
the acquisition of HTG in August 2017.

In March 2021 it was sold for an enterprise value of 
£35.0m representing a return on capital of almost 4X. 

This is AVG’s 3rd successful exit for the Group since 
2013, with the disposal of JenaTec in 2013 for £14.5m 
(purchased for £4.0m) and Sigma Components in 2016 
for £65.0m (purchased for £22.0m).

Avingtrans is committed to medium and longer term 
development plans, with the focus on exiting 
businesses at advantageous valuations, at which point 
proceeds can be considered for return to shareholders 
in a tax efficient manner, or redeployed for continued 
growth in shareholder value.

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   6

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   6

30/09/2021   11:57

30/09/2021   11:57

Exit

Exit

Returning share-holder value

Disposal of Peter Brotherhood

Peter Brotherhood was acquired for £9.3m as part of 

the acquisition of HTG in August 2017.

In March 2021 it was sold for an enterprise value of 

£35.0m representing a return on capital of almost 4X. 

This is AVG’s 3rd successful exit for the Group since 

2013, with the disposal of JenaTec in 2013 for £14.5m 

(purchased for £4.0m) and Sigma Components in 2016 

for £65.0m (purchased for £22.0m).

Avingtrans is committed to medium and longer term 

development plans, with the focus on exiting 

businesses at advantageous valuations, at which point 

proceeds can be considered for return to shareholders 

in a tax efficient manner, or redeployed for continued 

growth in shareholder value.

“

Avingtrans is quietly confident 

about the current strategic 

direction and potential future 

Exit opportunities

  Performance

5 YEAR PERFORMANCE

Revenue

n
o

i
l
l
i

M
£

n
o

i
l
l
i

M
£

n
o

i
l
l
i

M
£

e
c
n
e
P

100

80

60

40

20

0

100

80

60

40

20

0

15

12

9

6

3

0

25

20

15

10

5

0

25

20

Net Assets

EBITDA
(adjusted)

EPS – Diluted
(adjusted)

Results presented are from continuing 
operations.

IFRS 16 was adopted in 2020 and both 
IFRS 15 and IFRS 9 were adopted in 
2019. Prior periods have not been 
restated.”

 92.0 

 86.0 

 98.5 

 57.4 

 20.9 

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

 99.0 

 69.1 

 69.3 

 69.9 

 44.9 

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

 12.5

 7.0

 5.9

 3.9

 0.2

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

22.4

8.0

8.0

6.4

0.5

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   6

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   6

30/09/2021   11:57

30/09/2021   11:57

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   7

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   7

30/09/2021   11:57

30/09/2021   11:57

 
 
 
 
www.avingtrans.plc.uk

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   8

0011551_Avingtrans_Report_2021_v5.indd   8

30/09/2021   11:57

30/09/2021   11:57