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FY2023 Annual Report · Australian Vintage
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PINPOINT-INVEST-EXIT

 2023 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

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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

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.

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

Acquired Rolls Royce pipes; Sold Sigma

Returned £19.4m to shareholders; 
Acquired Scimag & Whiteley Read

Acquired HTG & Ormandy

Acquired Tecmag

Acquired Booth and Energy Steel

Acquired Magnetica, sold Peter Brotherhood

Acquired Transkem, invested in Adaptix

Acquired HRS, Slack & Parr, Adaptix

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

31

50

43

19

67

71

77

137

139

137

Medical Division

Innovative solutions

for medical systems

and research

0

30

60

90

120

150

Market Cap £m

Tender Offer £m

Timeline

2016 (180p)

2017 (235p)

2019 (217p)

2021 (335p)

2023 (410p)

The Aerospace Division, 

Acquisition of the Hayward

Acquisition of Booth 

Peter Brotherhood sold for an 

Purchased HRS, Slack & Parr, 

Sigma Components, 

Tyler Group for £29.4m and

Industries for cash 

enterprise value of £35.0m, 

and Adaptix

sold for £65m 

creation of Energy and 

consideration of £1.8m

and acquisition of Magnetica

Medical Divisions

Medical and Industrial Imaging (MII)

Our Medical and Industrial Imaging division (“MII”) is focused on becoming a leading player in the production of 

compact  helium-free  Magnetica  Resonance  Imaging  (“MRI”)  systems  and  3D  X-ray  systems.  This  division,  which 

includes  Magnetica  and  Adaptix,  has  recently  received  FDA  approval  for  its  orthopaedic  imaging  system  and  is 

working on advancing complementary technologies in the fi eld of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR).

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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

Acquired Rolls Royce pipes; Sold Sigma

Returned £19.4m to shareholders; 

Acquired Scimag & Whiteley Read

Acquired HTG & Ormandy

Acquired Tecmag

Acquired Booth and Energy Steel

Acquired Magnetica, sold Peter Brotherhood

Acquired Transkem, invested in Adaptix

Acquired HRS, Slack & Parr, Adaptix

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

31

50

43

19

67

71

77

0

30

60

90

120

150

Market Cap £m

Tender Offer £m

Timeline

2016 (180p)

2017 (235p)

2019 (217p)

2021 (335p)

2023 (410p)

The Aerospace Division, 

Acquisition of the Hayward

Acquisition of Booth 

Peter Brotherhood sold for an 

Purchased HRS, Slack & Parr, 

Sigma Components, 

Tyler Group for £29.4m and

Industries for cash 

enterprise value of £35.0m, 

and Adaptix

sold for £65m 

creation of Energy and 

consideration of £1.8m

and acquisition of Magnetica

Medical Divisions

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.

137

139

137

Medical Division

Innovative solutions
for medical systems
and research

Medical and Industrial Imaging (MII)

Our Medical and Industrial Imaging division (“MII”) is focused on becoming a leading player in the production of 
compact  helium-free  Magnetica  Resonance  Imaging  (“MRI”)  systems  and  3D  X-ray  systems.  This  division,  which 
includes  Magnetica  and  Adaptix,  has  recently  received  FDA  approval  for  its  orthopaedic  imaging  system  and  is 
working on advancing complementary technologies in the fi eld of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR).

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“

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

“We are delighted to report a robust set 
of results. It has been a challenging year 
in many ways however Avingtrans has 
again delivered and met market 
expectations. We used our strong balance 
sheet wisely in the year and bought HES/
HEVAC, which is already successfully 
integrated with Ormandy. Post year end, 
we acquired the assets of Slack and Parr, 
a specialist pump manufacturer and also 
completed the acquisition of X-ray 
specialist Adaptix, as well as further 
investing in Magnetica’s novel MRI 
systems. We entered FY24 with a healthy 
order book and we look forward to 
further progress across the Group this 
year, with macro developments in the 
energy, infrastructure and medical 
markets being tilted in our favour.”

Financial highlights

●  Revenue from continuing operations increased by 17.5% to

£116.4m (2022: £99.1m)

●  Gross Margin reduced slightly to 32.9% (2022: 34.1%), driven by

changes in the OEM/AM mix

●  Adjusted1 EBITDA from continuing operations increased by

10.6% to £13.7m (2022: £12.4m)

●  Adjusted1 PBT from continuing operations increased by 11.1%

to £9.0m (2022: £8.1m)

●  Adjusted1 Diluted earnings per share from continuing
operations increased by 8.3% to 23.4p (2022: 21.6p)

●  Net Cash (excluding IFRS16) as at 31 May 2023 of £13.0m

(31 May 2022: £16.7m) following investments in the Group

●  Final Dividend 2.8p per share (2022: 2.6p) resulting in a total

dividend for the year of 4.5p (2022: 4.2p)

Operational highlights – Energy

● Revenue increased 16.8% to £112.8m (2022: £96.6m)

●  Metalcraft contract to supply the Sellafield 3M3 boxes is

on-going in phase two of the programme

●  Booth completed the HS2 door designs and will commence

manufacture in FY24

●  Hayward Tyler and Energy Steel again won multiple nuclear

bids, including next generation enabling contracts

●  Acquired HES/HEVAC for £0.9m in January 2023 and integrated

into the Ormandy Bradford site

●  Post period end, completed the acquisition of Slack and Parr,
a manufacturer of specialist pumps and supplier of high-
precision gear metering pumps, hydraulic flow dividers and
industrials pumps for a total consideration of up to £4.9m

Operational highlights – Medical

●  Revenue increased 44% to £3.6m (2022: £2.5m)

●  Compact helium-free MRI system making good progress –

expected to launch in Q4 calendar 2023, with US 510(K) approval
to follow in H1 2024

●  Post period end acquisition of remaining issued share capital of
3D X-ray leader, Adaptix, in Oxford, UK, for a total consideration
of £8.1m including absorbed and repaid debt.

●  Adaptix has launched its veterinary product and was awarded

its 510(K) to FDA in USA for orthopaedics

●  Potentially significant market opportunities in the target

imaging markets for both businesses

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

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“

Commenting on the results,  

Roger McDowell, Chairman, said: 

“We are delighted to report a robust set 

of results. It has been a challenging year 

in many ways however Avingtrans has 

again delivered and met market 

expectations. We used our strong balance 

sheet wisely in the year and bought HES/

HEVAC, which is already successfully 

integrated with Ormandy. Post year end, 

we acquired the assets of Slack and Parr, 

a specialist pump manufacturer and also 

completed the acquisition of X-ray 

specialist Adaptix, as well as further 

investing in Magnetica’s novel MRI 

order book and we look forward to 

further progress across the Group this 

year, with macro developments in the 

energy, infrastructure and medical 

markets being tilted in our favour.”

systems. We entered FY24 with a healthy 

manufacture in FY24

Financial highlights

●  Revenue from continuing operations increased by 17.5% to

£116.4m (2022: £99.1m)

●  Gross Margin reduced slightly to 32.9% (2022: 34.1%), driven by

changes in the OEM/AM mix

●  Adjusted1 EBITDA from continuing operations increased by

10.6% to £13.7m (2022: £12.4m)

●  Adjusted1 PBT from continuing operations increased by 11.1%

to £9.0m (2022: £8.1m)

●  Adjusted1 Diluted earnings per share from continuing

operations increased by 8.3% to 23.4p (2022: 21.6p)

●  Net Cash (excluding IFRS16) as at 31 May 2023 of £13.0m

(31 May 2022: £16.7m) following investments in the Group

●  Final Dividend 2.8p per share (2022: 2.6p) resulting in a total

dividend for the year of 4.5p (2022: 4.2p)

Operational highlights – Energy

● Revenue increased 16.8% to £112.8m (2022: £96.6m)

●  Metalcraft contract to supply the Sellafield 3M3 boxes is

on-going in phase two of the programme

●  Booth completed the HS2 door designs and will commence

●  Hayward Tyler and Energy Steel again won multiple nuclear

bids, including next generation enabling contracts

●  Acquired HES/HEVAC for £0.9m in January 2023 and integrated

into the Ormandy Bradford site

●  Post period end, completed the acquisition of Slack and Parr,

a manufacturer of specialist pumps and supplier of high-

precision gear metering pumps, hydraulic flow dividers and

industrials pumps for a total consideration of up to £4.9m

Operational highlights – Medical

●  Revenue increased 44% to £3.6m (2022: £2.5m)

●  Compact helium-free MRI system making good progress –

expected to launch in Q4 calendar 2023, with US 510(K) approval

to follow in H1 2024

●  Post period end acquisition of remaining issued share capital of

3D X-ray leader, Adaptix, in Oxford, UK, for a total consideration

of £8.1m including absorbed and repaid debt.

●  Adaptix has launched its veterinary product and was awarded

its 510(K) to FDA in USA for orthopaedics

●  Potentially significant market opportunities in the target

imaging markets for both businesses

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

exceptional items 

Company Information

For the year ended 31 May 2023

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) 
J S Reedman (Non-executive Director) 

www.avingtrans.plc.uk

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

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

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

Cooper Parry Group Limited
Statutory Auditor
Sky View
Argosy Road
East Midlands Airport
Castle Donington
Derby
DE74 2SA

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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  

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income 

Consolidated Balance Sheet 

Company Balance Sheet 

Page

3

4 – 21

22 – 25

26 – 29

30 – 31

32 – 36

37 – 49

50

50

51

52

Consolidated Statement of Changes In Equity 

53 – 54

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 

55

56

57

58 – 92

93 – 96

2

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Chairman’s Statement

The latest financial year has been marked by the Group’s commendable performance in the face of well documented ongoing 
global disruptions. Despite these challenges, the Board is pleased with the Group’s achievements, with strong organic revenue 
growth, robust adjusted EBITDA (note 4) from continuing operations and a stable net cash position at the year-end. Notable 
investments in Magnetica and HES/HEVAC have contributed to the favourable results, even amidst supply chain disruptions and 
customer order delays. As we look ahead to FY24, our order book position is very healthy.

Our Pinpoint-Invest-Exit (“PIE”) strategy was again successfully deployed, reinforcing our investments in medical imaging at 
Magnetica and the 3D X-ray business, Adaptix, which we have now acquired 100% (post period end). Both ventures continue to 
make strides in developing disruptive and complementary medical imaging products, particularly for orthopaedic applications. 
Furthermore, the acquisition of HES/HEVAC and its integration into Ormandy has bolstered the market standing of that business 
unit.  Post  period  end,  we  also  completed  the  significant  assets  acquisition  of  Slack  and  Parr,  another  specialist  pumps  and 
hydraulics manufacturer to capitalise on its global footprint, combined with its well-invested operational capability, powerful 
brand, highly skilled workforce and large installed base.

Despite the challenging external economic landscape, our divisional management teams have demonstrated agility and resilience, 
building strong business platforms. Aftermarket growth in Engineered Pumps and Motors (EPM) and Process Solutions and 
Rotating  Equipment  (PSRE)  has  remained  steady,  supporting  our  value  propositions  to  OEM  and  end-user  customers.  The 
positive sentiment in the nuclear and oil and gas sectors has resulted in increased orders in those areas. Our focus on end-user 
access continues to drive improved profitability and underpins our product and service development.

The EPM division’s performance improved over the year, despite supply chain disruptions and order placement challenges, to 
end the year with a strong order book. Energy Steel showed further improvement, with promising aftermarket prospects and new 
customers placing orders with us. 

The PSRE division also made solid progress, notably at Booth, which demonstrated continued operational strength and sustained 
record orders. Meanwhile, at Metalcraft, the substantial 3M3 box contract with Sellafield continues in the volume production 
phase. Our apprentice training school at the Chatteris site currently has 18 apprentices in house, with further expansion to come. 
Combining Ormandy with HES/HEVAC has strengthened both businesses and we expect to see an improvement in performance 
in FY24, as a result.

The  acquisition  of Adaptix  and  further  investment  in  Magnetica  has  firmly  established  the  Medical  and  Industrial  Imaging 
(MII) division as a new niche imaging systems supplier, with promising X-ray and MRI products in the pipeline. The Board 
is enthusiastic about the division’s potential, expecting long-term positive returns for the Group, albeit perhaps via a different 
vehicle, to maximize returns.

In view of the encouraging overall results, the Board is proposing a final year dividend of 2.8 pence per share, resulting in a 
total dividend of 4.5p. With a robust balance sheet, the Group remains vigilant in seeking shareholder value-enhancing M&A 
opportunities, while also being cautious and selective in the current manufacturing sector climate.

Lastly,  I  extend  my  appreciation  to  all Avingtrans  employees,  both  existing  and  new,  for  their  dedication  and  resilience  in 
navigating these challenging times.

Roger McDowell
Chairman
26 September 2023

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”), through which we have had a strong track record in 
returning significant shareholder value over the past decade.

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 macroeconomic disruptions – 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, despite the ongoing impacts of the 
Russia-Ukraine conflict and the related global financial stress.

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 strengthen its nuclear installed base, focusing on civil, 
defence, and national security applications, particularly for life extension purposes. The business also explores opportunities 
in the hydrocarbon market sectors. Energy Steel, acquired in June 2019 and specialising in nuclear life extension, has shown 
consistent recovery in North America. Furthermore, EPM is actively developing solutions for new nuclear technologies and other 
low carbon energy sources, like concentrated solar, to leverage the global energy supply transition. Throughout FY23, EPM 
secured significant contracts, including additional pumps for the next generation nuclear business, TerraPower, in the USA and 
further life extension equipment for the Forsmark nuclear power station in Sweden. The EPM strategy is strengthened by crucial 
partnership agreements with companies like Shinhoo, expanding our product portfolio and creating cross-selling opportunities. 
The post period end acquisition of Slack and Parr further enhances our global specialist pumps footprint.

Process Solutions and Rotating Equipment (Energy – PSRE): A primary target for PSRE is to establish a comprehensive 
offering in the nuclear decommissioning and reprocessing markets, building on long-term contracts for nuclear waste storage 
containers  and  the  existing  equipment  installed  across  the  vast  Sellafield  site.  During  the  period,  Metalcraft  and  Sellafield 
Limited continued with the contract to provide high integrity stainless steel storage boxes for Sellafield. The 3M3 (‘three metre 
cubed’) box contract is currently valued at up to £70m and is still to complete. The division’s nuclear credentials were again 
enhanced  by  Booth  Industries’  strong  performance,  expanding  our  market  reach  into  Critical  National  Infrastructure  (CNI). 
Booth’s multi-year contract with HS2, initially worth £36m, is progressing well, with manufacturing expected to commence 
in  FY24.  Ormandy’s  market  position  in  HVAC  has  been  significantly  strengthened  by  the  HES/HEVAC  acquisition,  with  a 
resulting stronger product proposition. PSRE continues to benefit from a robust prospect pipeline, positioning it well to bid for 
new opportunities as they arise.

Medical and Industrial Imaging (Medical – MII): Following the Magnetica acquisition in January 2021 and the post-period 
end acquisition of the remaining shares in Adaptix, the focus for the medical division is to become a niche market leader in the 
production of compact helium-free MRI systems and 3D X-ray systems, for applications such as orthopaedic and veterinary 
imaging. This is an exciting opportunity for the Group. 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. 
During the year, Adaptix, based in Oxford, UK, received its 510(k) approval from the FDA, to enable sales of its orthopaedic 
product  in  the  USA. Adaptix’s  3D  X-ray  technology  is  being  developed  in  parallel  to  Magnetica’s  MRI  technology  and,  as 
envisioned, the two businesses are working in an increasingly complementary manner.

Across the Group’s customers, we see continued pressure on aftermarket expenditure, where operational efficiency, reliability 
and safety are paramount. Customers are looking for reliable supply chain partners, to provide long term support of both new 
infrastructure and legacy installations.

Pinpoint-Invest-Exit

Continuing with our successful Pinpoint-Invest-Exit strategy, Avingtrans demonstrated its commitment by raising its stake in 
Magnetica to 71.7% during the period (at 26 September 2023 74.8%). Additionally, post period end, we successfully completed 
the  100%  acquisition of Adaptix,  as  mentioned earlier.  During  the  period,  we  also  exited  from  Metalcraft China,  selling  the 
business for £1.0m to a local manufacturer. After our interest in MRI component manufacture ended as planned, there was no 
viable strategic reason to keep this business unit in China. However, we were pleased to find a good home for it, to ensure that 
all our employees there continued to enjoy gainful employment.

The  focus  on  other  strategic  acquisitions  remained  strong,  with  the  addition  of  HVAC  specialist  HES/HEVAC,  for  a  total 
consideration  of  £0.9m  already  contributing  positively  to  Ormandy’s  market  strength,  after  a  smooth  integration  process. 

4

Strategic Report (Continued)

Pinpoint-Invest-Exit (continued)

Post period end, the acquisition of the assets of Slack and Parr, in the UK, USA and China, for a consideration of up to £4.9m, 
added another specialist pumps and hydraulics capability to the Group.

The  ongoing  progress  at  previous  acquisitions,  Booth  and  Energy  Steel,  was  again  pleasing,  as  both  businesses  contributed 
strongly to the results of their respective divisions.

The Group remains confident about the current strategic direction and potential future opportunities across its chosen markets. 
Some of our market sectors (eg Nuclear) benefitted from the global disruptions seen in the period, which drove higher energy 
costs and caused governments to review energy security.

Markets – Energy

The global demand for energy remains relentless and we anticipate a sustained period of growth in the coming years. The aftermath 
of the Covid pandemic spurred a push towards enhanced efficiency and decarbonisation. However, the Russia-Ukraine conflict 
subsequently raised political awareness regarding the importance of energy security, leading to a recalibration of the rush towards 
renewable energy in the short to medium term. This situation could potentially benefit our businesses, particularly in the nuclear 
sector.

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. Facilities are being operated for much longer than their intended design lives, 
resulting  in  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  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, or Advanced Generation IV Reactors – e.g. with TerraPower and GE-Hitachi. 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 92 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 UK remains pre-eminent when it comes to decommissioning nuclear facilities and subsequent 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 activity in the UK, South Korea, the USA and China dominating development activity. The Group views these new 
technologies 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, Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe and the Middle East. 
EPM is optimising its product line, to take market share and to create new opportunities – e.g. in products to remove toxins 
from the exhaust stacks of power stations.

•  Gas  –  natural  gas,  primarily  in  the  form  of  combined  cycle  gas  turbine  power  plants  has  been  a  growing  market  space, 
primarily in the West, albeit disrupted by the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The Group continues to develop 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 pumps for concentrated solar applications. 

5

Strategic Report (Continued)

Markets – Energy (continued)

Hydrocarbons

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine resulted in a surge in European gas prices, leading to unprecedented levels of volatility in the 
energy  market.  Our  Hayward  Tyler  businesses  have  long  been  associated  with  providing  top-notch  subsea  and  submersible 
pumps and motors to the oil and gas fields of the Norwegian Shelf. Recently, we have experienced a significant boost in demand 
for  both  new  equipment  and  aftermarket  services,  as  the  market  seeks  to  maximise  supplies  from  this  region.  The  current 
situation, coupled with informed forecasts, indicates that the demand for our products and services is likely to remain strong. This 
presents a promising opportunity for our business to further capitalise on the evolving energy landscape.

Markets – Medical

The  Diagnostic  (medical)  and  molecular  imaging  markets  are  large  global  sectors,  dominated  by  a  few  large  systems 
manufacturers. The total Medical Imaging Market is expected to reach $47.4billion by 2030 according to Grand View Research, 
a compound annual growth rate of 4.8%. 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) and we have continued to invest in Magnetica. Post-period end, we 
acquired 100% of Adaptix, for £8.1m, including debt absorbed and repaid. Adaptix is an emerging medtech leader in the field 
of 3D X-ray equipment. The objective of this acquisition activity is to create innovative, niche MRI and X-ray systems supplier, 
which can address specific parts of the market, not well served by dedicated products at present. This includes orthopaedic and 
veterinary imaging. The development paths of Magnetica and Adaptix are convergent, which enables both businesses to benefit 
from efficiency and cost gains, as well as optimising the route to market – especially in orthopaedics. Market drivers for these 
segments include an ageing global population and the rising incidence of chronic diseases. 

The  growing  prevalence  of  chronic  diseases,  especially  in  older  populations,  is  increasing  demand  for  medical  imaging  in 
hospitals  and  other  diagnostic  settings.  Technical  innovations,  including  advances  in  artificial  intelligence,  have  increased 
the reliability and accuracy of medical imaging, thus driving further demand in global healthcare. Conversely, the market is 
somewhat inhibited by the high cost of current medical imaging systems.

In  2023,  X-ray  systems  held  approximately  32%  of  the  market  share,  while  MRI  systems  accounted  for  around  18%.  Our 
estimates indicate that over 20% of all diagnostic imaging scans are related to limbs. As  a result, the combined addressable 
market for Magnetica and Adaptix in medical imaging is approximately $3 billion, in theory. However, it’s important to note 
that the actual addressable market is smaller, since both businesses have chosen not to target sales to hospitals. Instead, they are 
focusing on deploying their products in specialised clinics, where the product attributes align closely with the specific needs of 
these establishments.

Additionally, both Magnetica and Adaptix have plans to expand into other imaging markets, notably the veterinary sector. This is 
in response to the lack of dedicated products in this area, which has hindered the widespread use of imaging systems in veterinary 
practices. By targeting these specialised markets and addressing their unique requirements, both companies aim to further grow 
their market share and create a disruptive impact in the medical and veterinary imaging industries.

End User/Aftermarket 

Diagnostic imaging 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 imaging aftermarket at this time.

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 and Safety incidents per head per annum 
•  Environmental incidents per annum 

2023 

40.5 
91.3 
79.9 
18.5 
0.08 
0 

2022

42.0
93.6
80.5
17.4
0.07
0

Although total AM sales increased strongly in the period, the percentage of total sales was reduced, due to a much larger increase 
in OEM sales in FY23. 

Customer quality and on time in full (OTIF) deliveries both dipped slightly, as supply chain disruptions continued to impact our 
operations in all countries. These disruptions have led us to carry more stock than ideal, to mitigate delivery delays. There are 
some early signs of this situation easing in the new FY. 

6

 
 
Strategic Report (Continued)

Operations (continued)

Annualised staff turnover went up slightly, driven mainly by a larger than average number of retirements in the year. 

H&S incidents per head per annum was up very slightly at 0.08. The increase was due to a number of minor incidents at HES/
HEVAC post-acquisition. After we integrated the business into Ormandy’s main site, H&S incidents reduced back to normal 
levels. 

As in 2022, there were zero environmental incidents recorded in the Group.

EPM Division – Energy

The EPM division, comprises Hayward Tyler (HT) and Energy Steel (ES), with Slack and Parr being added post period end. 
The main divisional priorities remain: strengthening the aftermarket sales and capabilities and; maximising opportunities in the 
nuclear life extension market. 

The division’s results further improved in the period, though there was a notable increase in OEM sales. Some adverse supply-
chain disruption effects continued throughout the year but the impact was less pronounced than in the prior year.

At HT Luton, our aftermarket activities are experiencing significant demand, notably in servicing of third-party equipment. In the 
hydrocarbons sector, elevated enquiries and orders continued throughout the year. HT Luton received a follow up £3.3m contract 
from Forsmark nuclear power station in Sweden and other nuclear life extension orders have followed elsewhere. The team also 
secured further defence related orders from Rolls Royce, for the UK MoD.

Regarding the HT Luton site redevelopment, there has been little recent progress, as the increase in interest rates in the UK has 
dampened construction interest for the time being.

HT Inc, located in Vermont (USA), has maintained a strong order intake in the nuclear life extension market, both domestically 
in the USA and with KHNP in South Korea. Despite the challenges, HT Inc is making significant progress in exploring new R&D 
opportunities, particularly in the field of next-generation nuclear power. These endeavours are advancing steadily, and we have 
secured further orders from TerraPower after the close of the previous period. This indicates the positive direction our Company 
is moving towards, reaffirming our commitment to innovation and growth in the nuclear industry.

Our Fluid Handling business in Scotland maintained its consistency, with another good performance in the period. The Transkem 
mixer business, acquired in the prior year, contributed strongly to the results.

The acquisition of the assets of Slack and Parr, in Kegworth, UK (post period end) adds another significant specialist pumps 
capability to the divisional armoury. S&P specialise in precision gear pumps, used in a variety of applications – eg – in the 
production of textile fibres. Initial activities will focus on stabilising S&P’s UK operations, which are disordered and inefficient, 
following the administration process. 

HT Kunshan (China) had another good year, with a number of new orders being received and delivered and a strong pipeline, 
resulting from the Chinese government initiative to reduce emissions from coal fired power stations. This has given HT a new 
product line to pursue in the short to medium term.

HT India had a better year, having previously suffered from disruptions due to Covid-19. So, the business performance was back 
to normal in the period. 

Energy Steel (‘ES’) in Michigan (USA), delivered an improved set of results from the previous year. The business has been 
winning new orders from a broader market footprint, including first orders from TerraPower. ES has also improved its on time 
delivery performance in the year. 

PSRE Division – Energy, safety and security

PSRE had another very solid year, albeit still impacted by supply chain disruptions and order delays, as seen elsewhere in the 
Group.

Booth performed well and has sustained a record order book, including the HS2  £36m contract, which has now  entered the 
production phase. We have successfully rebuilt Booth into a leader in its high integrity doors market niches, both in the UK and 
internationally. We continue to make good progress in building an aftermarket business at Booth, where we see strong growth 
potential.

Metalcraft’s progress with the Sellafield 3M3 boxes was good overall, as the production phase two of the contract continues. 
The contract value was boosted to £70m in phase two (previously £50m) with circa 1,000 boxes to be delivered over the next six 
years. Metalcraft is the only supplier to transition to phase two of the contract. Frustratingly, the next 3M3 box contract tender 
remains on the horizon, with uncertain timing but we are very well placed to pursue this contract and it does not impact on our 
forecasts. Metalcraft China was sold to a local Chines manufacturer for, £1.0m, at the end of the period. Following our exit from 
MRI third party component manufacture, we did not have a strategic use for this facility but we were pleased to secure this sale 
and sustain the employment of all of our former colleagues there. 

7

Strategic Report (Continued)

Operations (continued)

PSRE Division – Energy, safety and security (continued)

Ormandy’s management team was strengthened during the year and, as a result, its performance measurably improved. During 
the second half of FY23, we acquired the assets of local competitor HES/HEVAC for £0.9m and transferred its 30 employees 
mainly into Ormandy’s Bradford site. The integration has gone smoothly, and the enhanced market offering of the combined 
business, reinforces Ormandy’s prospects, with a strong order book already evident. 

Composite Products had a solid year, with stable deliveries to Rapiscan for package scanning equipment and post period end 
secured further orders for Rapiscan.

MII – Medical Division

The Group continued to invest in Magnetica in the period and, as at 31 August 2023, currently owns 74.8% of the business. 
Magnetica  is  continuing  to  work  towards  new  niche  products  in  Magnetic  Resonance  Imaging  (MRI)  We  are  making  good 
progress on this exciting project, with the first orthopaedic product expected to be launched during FY 24 and 510(k) market 
entry approval from the US FDA to follow in the first half of calendar 2024. Magnetica will also continue to work on products 
for the adjunct Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) market, via Tecmag Houston and on superconducting magnets for physics 
applications, via SciMag in the UK. 

During the period, we made a further investment in Adaptix (Oxford, UK) worth £4.0m in total. Post period end, we agreed to 
buy the remaining shares in Adaptix for £2.7m and also took on existing debts of £2.1m, repaid debt of £3.3m. 

The  plans  of Adaptix  and  Magnetica  are  convergent. We  are  seeking  to  exploit  this  parallel  track,  to  optimise  costs  in  both 
businesses and to improve market penetration. In the period, Adaptix began to place first products in the veterinary imaging 
market and also received its 510(k) approval from the FDA, to allow sales of its product for the orthopaedic market in the USA.

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 Metalcraft China in FY23).

Revenue: 17.5% increase – underlying organic growth continues

Overall, Group continuing revenue increased to £116.4m (2022: £99.1m), driven largely by organic growth in the EPM and 
PSRE divisions. Revenue included £2.9m stemming from HES/HEVAC, acquired in the period. 

Gross margin: Stable despite some OEM/AM mix effects in the year.

Group gross margin reduced slightly to 32.9% (2022: 34.1%) partly due to the relatively higher percentage of OEM sales in the 
year, versus FY22.

Profit margin: Another improvement in results, despite global disruption  

Adjusted EBITDA (note 4) increased to £13.7m (2022: £12.4m). PSRE was boosted by strong results across the division, with 
robust  results  at  Booth.  The  profit  margins  in  the  EPM  division  also  continued  to  improve,  as  market  conditions  stabilised 
somewhat. In FY23, the overall increase in revenue resulted in a slight decrease in the split of AM and OE, with a corollary slight 
reduction in EBITDA margin percentages, along with the initial HES Revenue being just above break even.

Operating profit was £8.0m (2022: £7.2m), in line with the EBITDA improvement seen above, and lower exceptional costs.

Profit was suppressed by £0.4m in the year, by the Board’s proactive decision to make an ex gratia payment of £500 each to all 
employees in December 2023, to help with the cost of living in various countries.

Tax: Future profits and cash protected by available losses

The effective rate of taxation at Group level was a 16.7% (2022: 13.9%) tax charge. A US tax rebate in FY23 (note 9) 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. We continue to be cautious, not recognising all of the potential trading tax losses in the UK.

Adjusted diluted Earnings per Share (EPS) increased

Adjusted  diluted  earnings  per  share  from  continuing  operations  (note  11)  increased  to  23.4p  (2022:  21.6p)  reflecting  the 
underlying growth in results, offset by a higher tax charge due to the increase in the UK tax rate (FY22 had a lower overall 
tax charge following a US tax rebate). Adjusted diluted earnings per share attributable to shareholders reduced to 19.9p (2022: 
21.8p), due to the discontinued losses for the trading and disposal of Metalcraft China.

Basic and diluted earnings per share attributable to shareholders from continuing activities decreased to 15.7p (2022: 18.9p) and 
to 15.3p (2022: 18.3p), due to the discontinued losses for the trading and disposal of Metalcraft China.

8

Strategic Report (Continued)

Financial Performance (continued)

Funding and Liquidity: Ongoing strong net cash position

Net cash (including IFRS16 debt) at 31 May 2023 was £9.1m. Excluding IFRS16 debt, Net cash was £13.0m, (31 May 2022: Net 
cash (including IFRS16 debt) was £13.3m and excluding IFRS16 debt was £16.7m). The cash flows generated from the strong 
underlying profits were subdued by a £2.3m working capital outflow, mainly due to the delayed timing of various contracts, 
carrying increased stock due to supply chain disruption and working capital outflow for the HES/HEVAC acquisition, resulting 
in an operating cash inflow of £9.6m for the year (2022: £3.7m). In addition to £4.0m invested in Adaptix, £5.3m was invested 
in development costs primarily in relation to: Magnetica’s compact helium-free MRI system £3.7m; HTI Bearings £1.1m. A 
further £3.3m into property plant and equipment, £1.5m lease renewals at Magnetica, HTI and Kunshan, FH Doosan machine 
£0.2m) and loan repayments of £2.8m, with the Group still in a strong 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. 

Dividend: Progressive dividend policy continues

A final dividend of 2.8p per share is proposed, making a total dividend of 4.5p per share (2022: 4.2p). The dividend will be paid 
on 8 December 2023, to shareholders on the register at 27 October 2023.

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, which 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 the CFO review 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. Contagious 
diseases effects 
across the 
global economy 
and businesses

and 

Contagious  diseases, 
the 
measures  taken  to  control  them, 
can  have  an  adverse  effect  on 
the  Group’s  business,  financial 
condition and results of operations.

The  Group’s  experience  in  dealing  with  the  COVID-19 
pandemic  will  assist  it  in  dealing  with  further  outbreaks  of 
contagious  diseases.  This  includes  the  use  of  safe  working 
practices and the effective use of home working.

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

D. Execution

regular 
The  Group  makes 
acquisitions and disposals under its 
PIE  strategy.  In  December  2022, 
it  acquired  HRS  with  Maloney 
Metalcraft.  Avingtrans  additionally 
increased  its  holding  to  71.7%  of 
the  larger  Magnetica  sub  group 
and  in Adaptix  to  18.0%.  Stainless 
Metalcraft  disposed  of  Metalcraft 
China in May 2023.

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.

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 concerning 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 
Energy cost

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 
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.

impact 

Global  uncertainty,  such  as  the 
Ukraine conflict, can have significant 
impact not only on resource pricing 
but  also  on  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, 
which  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, and 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 the 
Ukraine conflict and the global geopolitical situation. We are 
engaged  with  trade  associations,  which  are  in  contact  with 
government and can thus assist our decision making and action 
plans. The overall trend towards Energy security is anticipated 
to  generate  more  reward  than  risk.  Shorter  term  validity  of 
quotes,  due  to  rapid  changes  of  energy,  materials  and  parts 
pricing and pass through contracts, helps to mitigate the long 
term trend of increased resource prices.

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 including finalising the new training school 
at the Chatteris site; 

■   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

the 
As  a  fundamental  part  of 
is  underlying 
strategy 
Group’s 
growth, the Group could be exposed 
to a potential increase in its working 
capital  requirement  which  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  reviews  its  facilities,  to  ensure  it  has  adequate 
facilities,  but  not  a  significant  level  of  unused  facilities, 
especially due to the recent increases in global interest rates.
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. Currency hedging lines are available from two 
providers. 

12

Strategic Report (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 
changes 
life  expectancy  of 
in 
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. 

Compliance and ethical risk

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 25 for more detail.

M. Climate 
change

including 
Environmental  factors, 
those  relating  to  climate  change, 
have  the  potential  to  materially 
impact our business and operations.

towards  being 

Many  of  the  countries  we  operate 
low 
are  shifting 
carbon economies. This could result 
in higher costs of business including 
rising energy prices, and shift away 
from  hydrocarbons  as  an  energy 
source.

The Group has been developing cleaner products and services. 
These  include  medical  technologies  which  don’t  require  the 
use  of  helium,  new  pumps  and  motors  for  next  generation 
nuclear  power  generation,  and  repurposing  existing  boiler 
circulating pumps to be used to remove harmful flue gases at 
conventional power stations.

Local initiatives have been put in place to reduce energy usage 
at premises and over the lifecycle of our products.

Further information on the Groups approach to climate change 
can be found in the Sustainability Report on page 15.

People

There were no changes at Board, or divisional management level in the period. 

The next tier management teams in each of the three divisions continue to be strengthened, with a number of key appointments 
being made in the year, notably in Medical, which is growing quite quickly. Skills availability remains a challenge. However, 
we do not expect to be unduly constrained by shortages, although the global economic situation caused wage inflation across 
the Group and made recruitment more difficult. We continue to invest significant effort in developing skills in-house, through 
structured apprenticeship programmes and graduate development plans. The Group continues to be recognised nationally for the 
strength of its apprenticeship training schemes.

13

Strategic Report (Continued)

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.

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  FY23,  several  decisions  were  made  about  the  strategy,  structure  and  future  of  the  business.  Examples  of  these  key 
decisions relate to:

•  Further investment in Magnetica
•  Further investment in Adaptix
•  Acquisition of HES/HEVAC

Further investment in Magnetica 

In order to continue the development of the Medical division and its compact helium-free MRI technology, the Board considered 
further investment in Australian based Magnetica, to develop and manufacture lower cost, helium-free MRI scanners, ensuring 
clinical interoperability for imaging extremities. 

Helium-free  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.

14

Strategic Report (Continued)

Section 172 statement (continued)

Further investment in Adaptix 

During  the  period,  we  made  a  further  £4m  investment  in  the  emerging  “medtech”  business,  Adaptix,  which  is  seeking  to 
disrupt the X-ray imaging market with a novel product and business model. It recently launched compact 3D x-ray systems for 
orthopaedic and veterinary applications, to address an ageing global population and the rising incidence of chronic diseases, at 
lower cost, with improved clinical data.

Further, the strategies and development paths of Magnetica and Adaptix are convergent, and we see potentially large benefits in 
combining their approaches to market in technology, software and distribution channels, amongst others – to optimise costs in 
both businesses and to improve market penetration.

Acquisition of HES/HEVAC  

The Board reviewed the expansion of the product offering at Ormandy, via the acquisition of local competitor HES/HEVAC. The 
merger allowed use of the quality standards, expanded customer base, engineering excellence and the Group covenant support, 
enabling enhancement in Employee opportunities and a higher quality, more rounded customer proposition.

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.

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.

Sustainability report

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

Environment

As  the  Group  is  listed  on  the  LSE AIM  market,  we  fall  within  the  newly  introduced  Climate-Related  Financial  Disclosures 
(“CRFDs”) regime. The 4 pillars of this regime are governance, strategy, metrics and targets, and risk management. 

Governance

Our Board oversees our approach to sustainability, including climate change. Under the board sits a Sustainability Committee 
represented by employees from across the Group. The Committee is responsible for promoting and implementing environmental 
programmes  and  collecting  and  monitoring  environmental  data.  The  Sustainability  Committee  provides  regular  updates  and 
briefings to the Board.

Strategy

In 2021, we reassessed our approach to sustainability, with a view of integrating a sustainability strategy into our core business 
activities,  aligning  ourselves  with  the  UN’s  Sustainable  Development  Goals  (SDGs).  From  our  sustainability  assessment  we 
identified 2 principal areas of environmental focus, these are:

•  Operational eco-efficiency
•  Development of new technologies

Operational eco-efficiency looks at improvements we can make at a site level, including reducing the manufacturing footprint of 
our sites, investment in improvements, and establishing a culture which promotes carbon reduction.

15

Strategic Report (Continued)

Environment (continued)

Strategy (continued)

Development of new technologies allows us to benefit from opportunities designed to mitigate issues associated with climate 
change. The Group can benefit from its advanced engineering capabilities and world-class technologies to develop new products 
and services that support low carbon or reduced emissions requirements.

Risk management

Our approach to identifying, assessing and managing environmental risks, including climate related risk, is embedded within 
our approach to risk management. Environmental risks may present as financial or non-financial risks depending on the extent to 
which their impacts can be quantified, and how they have been classified.

Climate change and environment is a principal risk for the Group (see page 13).

Climate-related risks and opportunities

A summary of the climate-related risks and opportunities identified as having a potentially material impact on the Group, and 
our associated controls, includes:

Shift to renewables

Most countries we sell into are moving away from fossil fuels towards renewables.

Demand for our hydrocarbon range of products could be adversely impacted. Conversely, we could see greater opportunities for 
our nuclear products.

The  Group  has  been  investing  in  products  for  next  generation  nuclear,  including  fusion,  molten-salt  fast  reactors,  and  small 
modular reactors.

Extreme weather events

Disruption could be caused by a range of events, for example, flooding, extreme temperatures, and drought. 

Extreme temperatures will increase the energy required to heat or cool our facilities and in extreme cases may cause site closures 
and a range of logistical issues. 

We have seen such issues rising across the Group in recent years, for example record levels of smog in Delhi, India, because of 
drought and industrial emissions.

Levels of regulation

The  Group  operates  in  a  highly  regulated  environment  across  many  jurisdictions  and  is  subject  to  regulations  relating  to 
environmental factors including, but not limited to, climate change, therefore consideration of current and emerging regulation 
within our environmental management system is key to mitigating risk. Identified regulatory risks include energy-related taxes 
and the increased costs of compliance with energy-related schemes. 

Scenario analysis

We have conducted peer analysis to understand the number of different scenarios businesses are modelling. We have found that 
most peers are modelling 2 scenarios, which are:

•  1.5°C by 2100: Orderly transition to the Paris-aligned goal occurring by 2100, with temperature rising 1.5°C above pre-

industrial levels.

•  4.0°C by 2100: Failure of countries to meet their Paris-aligned goals, resulting in higher emissions and temperatures rising 

to an average of 4 degrees Celsius above industrial levels.

Some of our peers have gone further, by analysing higher temperature rises or no rise at all. Presently we think the 2 scenarios 
above are sufficient for giving readers an opportunity to understand the possible transformational effects of climate change. We 
will continue to assess the appropriateness of our scenarios and will likely alter them over time to reflect a changing environmental 
landscape and to ensure comparability with our peer group.

Our analysis of physical climate risks are aligned with recognised climate scenarios, specifically the Intergovernmental Panel 
on Climate Change’s (IPCC) Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) scenarios which provide a uniform framework for 
exploring potential climate changes and related impacts. RCPs are used globally for climate modelling and give access to a wide 
range of peer-reviewed and accepted climate datasets, as well as allowing consistency across territories.

16

Strategic Report (Continued)

Environment (continued)

1.5°C Scenario

In this scenario, governments around the world would need to meet and exceed their current pledges under the Paris Agreement. 
They  would  do  this  through  a  combination  of  energy-demand  reductions,  decarbonization  of  electricity  and  other  fuels, 
electrification of energy end use, deep reductions in agricultural emissions, and some form of carbon dioxide removal. 

Nuclear  energy  is  the  Group’s  largest  market.  We  provide  reactor  cooling  pumps  for  the  global  market,  and  nuclear  waste 
containment vessels for the US and UK markets. We are also working on a number of next generation nuclear energy projects 
including the ITER nuclear Fusion reactor in France, and TerraPower’ s molten chloride fast reactor project in the US. 

Given the strong push for decarbonisation we would expect strong increase in demand for our nuclear products over the short to 
medium term horizon, with longer term aftermarket opportunities. 

Demand for oil & gas should steadily reduce. New capital projects are less likely to be approved, instead we will see older 
rigs being kept online. We provide the industry with a range of subsea and submersible motors and pumps. Demand for new 
equipment is likely to shrink dramatically, with aftermarket products services tailing off more steadily.

Existing MRI systems rely on liquid helium to cool the super conducting magnets. Helium is a scarce, non-renewable resource, 
mostly obtained as a by-product of oil extraction. Our new compact MRI uses helium-free magnets, and require significantly less 
energy to operate compared to existing systems. Therefore, we would hope to see improved demand for our product in this scenario.

The switch towards renewables is likely to increase energy costs across our businesses and drive up supplier and logistical costs. 
Some operations are more insulated from this than others, for example our Hayward Tyler Inc location is located in Vermont, 
USA, as State which currently generates nearly 100% of its electricity from renewables.

In subsequent years, we will look to expand our modelling to get a greater understanding on how rising energy costs may impact 
our business. Given the recent price shocks to oil & gas prices, it is no stretch to believe that a shift to renewables may reduce 
energy costs. 

4.0°C Scenario

Under this scenario, governments fail to meet their pledges under the Paris Agreement. Action is taken to reduce emissions, 
however, at a slower rate compared to the 1.5 Celsius scenario. Consequently, we would see a much slower reduction in energy 
consumption and a slower shift towards renewables. The higher temperature increases would lead to a range of physical risks, 
including heat waves, colder winters, droughts, flooding, and smog to name just a few.

Product and services

All the product and services related impacts outlined in the 1.5°C scenario would be lessened. 

Flood risk

The Group operates from 14 locations globally. 3 of our facilities are owned, with the remainder being leased, typically for 
lease terms of less than 5 years. All the facilities which we own are based in the UK and have a range of bespoke infrastructure 
including cranes, electrical capacity and test pits.

Flood risk represents a particularly high risk to our Chatteris facility, which is located in the fens, Cambridgeshire. The facility 
sits 3m above sea level and is surrounded on all sides by land which sit below sea level. 

Energy consumption

To ensure our sites remain functional. Additional cooling systems are likely to be required, and the existing systems are likely to 
be utilised much more often. As a result, we would expect to see rising energy costs.

Metrics and targets

The Group has adopted the following targets:

•  Establish carbon reduction plans at all sites across the Group
•  Report energy consumption and carbon emissions annually
• 

Integrate environmental considerations into our Pinpoint-Investments-Exit strategy

Carbon reduction plans

Carbon and energy reduction targets have been established at a site level. Most sites have established targets and strategies as part 
of their ISO 14001 Environmental Management System accreditation. Our Booth subsidiary is leading the way, achieving net 
zero scope 1 and scope 2 emissions in the year, and pursuing net zero including scope 3 by FY2025. This will be achieved through 
choosing low emission electricity providers, investment to improve operational efficiency, and a carbon offsetting programme.

17

Strategic Report (Continued)

Environment (continued)

Reporting energy consumption and carbon emissions

We report greenhouse gas Scope 1, 2 emissions in line with the Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) regulations. 

Given the Group makes regular disposals and acquisitions we do not consider absolute carbon emissions to be an appropriate 
method for tracking emissions, instead we focus on carbon intensity ratios. 

We have adopted a portfolio approach to tracking carbon emissions. For the division’s operating in the energy sector (EPM and 
PSRE) we monitor carbon emissions per £m of revenue. The Medical division has a greater focus on product development, so 
instead we focus on emissions per employee.

Sites track their energy usage from a number of sources, including meter readings, mileage reports, and invoices, then converts 
these inputs to energy (kWh) and carbon emissions (tCO2e) using relevant conversion factors. Conversion factors are published 
by the UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Group  EPM & PSRE 

Our energy usage and carbon emissions are:

EPM & PSRE 

Scope 1: 
Gas 
Oil 
Distribution 
Company vehicle travel 

Scope 2 – Purchased electricity 

Total emissions tCO2e 

Total energy consumption mWh 

Intensity metrics: 
Average employees 
Emissions tCO2e per employee 
Revenue (£m) 
Emissions tCO2e per £m of revenue 

UK proportion of: 
Total emissions tCO2e 
Total energy consumption mWh 

623 
386 
13 
14 

1,036 
843 

1,879 

9,441 

673 
2.8 
112.8 
16.6 

79% 
77% 

2023 
MII 

21 
– 
2 
–  

23 
203 

226  

544 

59 
3.8 
3.6 
62.7 

21% 
46% 

644 
386 
15 
14 

1,058 
1,046 

2,104 

9,986 

732 
2.9 
116.4 
18.1 

73% 
75% 

2022
MII 

26 
– 
– 
6 

32 
204 

236  

Group

889
605
30
19

1,543
1,105

2,648

863 
605 
30 
13 

1,511 
901 

2,412 

11,204 

560 

11,764

634 
3.8 
96.6 
25.0 

81% 
80% 

44 
5.4 
2.5 
94.4 

25% 
50% 

678
3.9
99.1
26.7

76%
79%

In compliance with the SECR guidance, electricity emissions are based on grid averages from the regions we operate. As entities 
within the Group have transitioned to obtaining their power through renewable energy providers our actual electrical emissions 
will be lower. 

The  PSRE  and  EPM  division’s  intensity  target  is  to  reduce  its  tCO2e  per  £m  of  revenue.  In  the  year  tCO2e  £m  of  revenue 
improved by 33% to 16.6 (2022: 25.0). We expect to reduce revenue intensity further in the next financial year.

The MII division’s intensity target is to reduce its tCO2e per employee. In the year tCO2e per employee has reduced 29% to 3.8 
(2022: 5.4).

Integration of environmental considerations into our Pinpoint-Invest-Exit strategy

The  Group  has  expanded  upon  its  environmental  due  diligence  procedures,  which  historically  used  to  focus  on  potential 
environmental liabilities. The focus has now shifted towards identifying opportunities to improve business performance through 
energy reduction initiatives.

We  strongly  believe  that  investing  in  next  generation  manufacturing  facilities  and  development  of  new  technologies  is  key 
to  generating  a  sustainable  business  for  the  long  term.  Demonstrating  to  potential  buyers  our  environmental  credentials  and 
technological capabilities is a key component of our Exit strategy.

18

 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Strategic Report (Continued)

Environment (continued)

Progress in the year

Operational eco-efficiency

A significant proportion of the Group’s energy consumption is spent heating premises over the winter months. At some of the 
older  facilities  energy  in  the  winter  months  (December,  January  and  February)  can  be  as  much  as  4  times  higher  than  over 
summer  (June,  July  and August). A  focused  effort  has  been  made  to  reduce  winter  energy  consumption.  This  includes  the 
installation of new boilers, additional insulation, automatic timers on heating, as well as reducing the manufacturing footprint. 

We carried out a Carbon whole life cycle impact assessment also known as the LCA to measure embedded carbon in some of 
our key products. This process was guided by the ISO 14067 Lifecycle Carbon Assessment (“LCA”) to measure and investigate 
improvement opportunities that can cut carbon emissions. On the back of this research, we have implemented a number to our 
products and processes including:

•  Selection of higher quality materials designed to increase the useful life of products and reduce maintenance.
• 
•  Negotiating with customers to make fewer, larger shipments of products in order to reduce delivery emissions.

Introduction of reusable packaging and packaging which can be fully recycled,

Development of new technologies

Next generation nuclear: Molten Chloride Fast Reactor

Our  US  Hayward  Tyler  business  has  been  developing  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.

During the year, the Group secured an extension to for the continued development of next generation molten salt pumps, under 
the Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program.

Nuclear energy and decommissioning represent 27% of the Group’s revenues in the year. The Group believe that working on next 
generation nuclear projects including MCFR in the US, ITER in France, and Small Modular Reactors (“SMRs”) in the UK, will 
strengthen the Group’s long-term position in the nuclear industry.

Helium-free magnets

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 virtually 
eliminating use of helium in these systems. 

An update on the status of the progress on the MRI development can be found in Medical Division review on page 8.

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.

19

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  apprentice  training  school,  based  at  Metalcraft,  Chatteris  is  now  fully  operational.  We  are  partnered  with  West  Suffolk 
College (WSC) as the operator and training provider at the centre, which plans to take on between 80 and 130 students each 
year. Construction of the centre was funded through a £3.16 million grant from Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined 
Authority.

The Group continues to be recognised nationally for the strength of its apprenticeship training schemes. At 31 May 2023, the 
Group had 29 apprentices. 

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. A  frequent 
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 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.

Our Health and Safety KPIs can be found in the key performance indices section of the strategic report (page 6). Health and Safety 
incidents per head per annum rose to 0.08 in the year (2022: 0.07) driven by the acquisition of the HES/HEVAC businesses. 
Excluding the new acquisition incidents per head per annum would have remained flat at 0.07. At Board level, Les Thomas has 
H&S oversight and he conducts inspections with local management, as appropriate.

During the year, there have been no fatalities or serious injuries at any of our sites.

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, principally in the Energy and Medical and Industrial sectors, with a successful 
profitable growth record, underpinned by our ‘PIE’ strategy. Recent acquisitions will provide further opportunities for the Group 
to build sustainable value for investors in resilient market niches. We will continue to be prudent 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. 

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. Magnetica’s MRI product development is proceeding 
to plan, with an expected launch of the orthopaedic product later in 2023, subject to FDA approval in the USA, expected during 
FY24. This activity is fully complemented by the post-period end acquisition of Adaptix and its disruptive 3D X-ray technology. 
The earlier acquisitions of Booth and Energy Steel continued to recover well, as demonstrated by the results in the period. The 
Group is 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. The 
medical division is focused on compact, helium-free MRI systems and compact point of care 3D X-ray 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) that of third parties, to 
capitalise on the continued market demand for efficient, reliable and safe facilities.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict and resulting inflationary effects on the global economy is still a significant risk factor. However, we 
have taken effective cost and impact mitigation actions so far, to limit any potential downside and we will continue to be vigilant. 

20

Strategic Report (Continued)

Outlook (continued)

Despite the current global macroeconomic environments, 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. 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.

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

Roger McDowell 
Chairman 
26 September 2023 

Steve McQuillan 
Chief Executive Officer 
26 September 2023 

Stephen King
Chief Financial Officer
26 September 2023

21

Report of the Directors

The Directors present their report and the audited financial statements for the year ended 31 May 2023.

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  subdued  by  a  £2.4m  working  capital 
outflow,  mainly  due  to  the  delayed  timing  of  various  contracts  but  also  the  envisaged  working  capital  outflow  for  the  HES 
acquisitions, resulting in an operating cash inflow of £9.6m for the year (2022: £3.7m). In addition to £4.0m invested in Adaptix, 
£5.3m was invested in development costs primarily in relation to Magnetica’s compact helium-free MRI system £1.1m HTI 
bearing, £3.3m into property plant and equipment, including £1.5m lease renewals at Magnetica, HTI and Kunshan, FH Doosan 
machine £0.2m) and loan repayments of £2.8m with the Group still in a strong net cash position.

At 31 May 2023, the Group had net cash (including IFRS16 debt) of £9.1m (31 May 2022: net cash: £13.3m incl IFRS 16 as 
detailed in note 24. Excluding IFRS16, debt at 31 May 2023 was net cash £13.0m (31 May 2022: net cash: £16.7m). Net assets 
of £108.5m (2022: £105.8m). 

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 cash flow 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 continue to experience some impacts from supply chain during the year, resulting 
in some delayed orders. 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  2024/25  and  beyond,  the  Group 
has a number of exciting opportunities across all of its operations that should deliver growth and shareholder value. The more 
recent acquisitions, Booth, Transkem and Energy Steel continue to deliver improved performances and we anticipate further 
improvement alongside HES during FY23 and FY24 with underlying positive results and cashflow helping to underpin the near 
term Group performance. 

As reported at 31 May 2023, the Group had net cash of (including IFRS16 debt) £9.1m, excluding IFRS16 debt at 31 May 2022 
net cash was £13.3m. Additionally the Group had £19.4m of undrawn committed borrowing facilities – further details are set 
out in note 23.

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

22

Report of the Directors (Continued)

Going concern (continued)

The detailed cash flow forecasts for the Group for the period extending to 31 May 2025, 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 23 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 £7,476,000 (2022: £6,975,000). This excludes 
loss after tax from discontinued operations of £1,168,000 (2022: profit £57,000). 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 2.8p is proposed for the year ended 31 May 2023 (2022: 2.6p), taking the total dividend for the year to 4.5 
pence (2022: total 4.2 p). 

Substantial shareholdings

As at 25 September 2023, 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 
Funds managed by Close Brothers Management 

Directors and their interests

Number of 
shares 
‘000 

Percentage
of issued
share capital
owned

4,034 
2,363 
1,946 
1,703 
1,406 
1,155 

12.3%
7.2%
5.9%
5.2%
4.3%
3.5%

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 
2022
2023 

1,406,409 
468,987 
406,938 
16,000 

1,406,409
416,749
361,435
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.

23

 
  
 
  
 
 
 
   
 
 
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 23 and 
25 to the financial statements.

Research and development

During the year £5,315,000 (2022: £1,962,000) of development costs (per note 13) were capitalised as intangible assets. This 
was predominately at the Magnetica sub-group for helium free niche MRI application designs. Also, our HT Inc business has 
developed innovative bearing and thrust pad technologies designed to increase the life of our nuclear pumps and motors and 
improve thrust capacity.

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 
2023. The Company’s section 172 statement can be found in the Strategic Report on pages 14 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  group  financial  statements  in  accordance  with  UK-adopted  international  accounting  standards  and  the 
company financial statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom 
Accounting Standards and applicable law). Company law requires the Directors to prepare financial statements for each financial 
year.  Under  that  law  the  Directors  have  elected  to  prepare  the  Group  financial  statements  in  accordance  with  International 
Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) as adopted by the United Kingdom. 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 of the group and company 
and of the profit or loss of the group for that period. The Directors are also required to prepare financial statements in accordance 
with the rules of the London Stock Exchange for companies trading securities on the Alternative Investment Market. 

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.

24

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 Company’s and Group’s 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

Cooper Parry Group Limited (“Cooper Parry”) are willing to continue in office in accordance with section 489 of the Companies 
Act 2006. A resolution to reappoint them will be proposed at the Annual General Meeting. 

The report of the Directors was approved by the Board on 26 September 2023 and signed on its behalf by:

Stephen King
Director

25

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 pages 4–5.

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.

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 20.

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 expanded the SECR reporting on carbon emissions to include our non UK sites (pages 17–18).

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.

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.

26

Corporate Governance (Continued)

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

organisation (continued)

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  three  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.

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;

27

Corporate Governance (Continued)

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

improvement (continued)

•  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.

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.

28

Corporate Governance (Continued)

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

making by the Board (continued)

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.

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.

The  results  of  the  proxy  votes  for  the  Company’s  previous Annual  General  Meeting  on  17  November  2022  were  published 
through RNS.

Roger McDowell
Chairman
26 September 2023

29

Report of the Directors on Remuneration

Composition

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

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, J Clarke and J Reedman 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 

21/12/2016 
15/11/2018 
17/12/2019 
24/11/2020 
29/11/2021 
26/01/2023 

21/12/2016 
15/11/2018 
17/12/2019 
24/11/2020 
29/11/2021 
26/01/2023 

   At 1 June 
2022 
£ 

Date of  
grant  

  At 31 May 
2023 
£ 

Exercised 

  Weighted
average
exercise
price
£

Granted 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
180,000 

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

– 
(115,000) 
– 
– 
– 
– 

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

1,084,750 

180,000 

(115,000) 

1,149,750 

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

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
160,000 

– 
(100,000) 
– 
– 
– 
– 

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

889,750 

160,000 

(100,000) 

949,750 

1.930
2.200
2.670
2.880
4.025
4.100

2.859

1.930
2.200
2.670
2.880
4.025
4.100

2.929

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.

John Clarke
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee
26 September 2023

31

 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                     
                     
                     
                     
                    
 
 
 
 
                     
                     
                     
                     
                    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                     
                     
                     
                     
                    
 
 
Independent Auditor’s Report to the  
Members of Avingtrans plc

Opinion

We  have  audited  the  financial  statements  of Avingtrans  plc  (“the  parent  company”)  and  its  subsidiaries  (“the  Group”) 
for  the  year  ended  31  May  2023  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  Statement  of  Cash  Flows,  and  the  Notes  to  the Annual  Report, 
including a summary of accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in the preparation of 
the Group and parent company financial statements is applicable law and UK-adopted international accounting standards.

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 2023 and of the Group’s profit for the 52 weeks then ended;
the  Group  and  parent  company  financial  statements  have  been  properly  prepared  in  accordance  with  UK-adopted 
international accounting standards; 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 statutory financial 
statements section of our report.

We are independent of the Group in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the statutory 
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.

An overview of the scope of our audit
We  adopted  a  risk-based  audit  approach.  We  gained  a  detailed  understanding  of  the  Group’s  business,  the  environment  it 
operates in and the risks it faces. The key elements of our audit approach were as follows:

The audit team evaluated each component of the Group by assessing its materiality to the Group as a whole. This was done by 
considering the percentage of total Group assets, liabilities, revenues and profit before taxes which each component represented. 
From this, we determined the significance of the component to the Group as a whole and devised our planned audit response. 
In order to address the audit risks described in the key audit Matters section and our wider risk assessment, we performed a full 
scope audit of the financial statements of the parent company, Avingtrans plc, and all other trading component entities in the 
UK and Hayward Tyler Inc.

We also performed substantive procedures on the key audit matters identified at the Group level in Energy Steel Inc, Hayward 
Tyler Pumps (Kunshan) Co Limited and Magnetica Limited.

Of the Group’s subsidiaries, we subjected all material UK subsidiaries to audit. For any significant components which exceeded 
15% turnover, profit before tax and net assets, we sought Group reporting from component auditors and reviewed their audit 
files. There were three companies that had one or more individual items that were significant to the Group and specific audit 
procedures were conducted. All remaining subsidiaries, which individually contributed to less than 15% turnover, profit before 
tax and net assets were subject to analytical procedures and we investigated any material or unusual variances. 

Conclusions relating to going concern
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. Our evaluation of the Directors’ assessment of the entity’s ability to 
continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting included:

• 

• 

reviewing  management’s  cash  flow  forecasts  for  a  period  of  12  months  from  the  date  of  approval  of  these  financial 
statements; and
reviewing results post year end to the date of approval of these financial statements and assessment against original budgets.

From our work we noted that forecasts support the Directors’ view that the Group will continue to be able to meet its liabilities 
as they fall due. 

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 ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at 
least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

32

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

Conclusions relating to going concern (continued)
Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the Directors with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections 
of this report.

Key audit matters

Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgment, 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) we identified, including those which had the greatest effect on the overall audit strategy, the allocation of resources in the 
audit and directing the efforts of the engagement team. These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the statutory 
financial statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters.

Revenue recognition 

Matter

The Group has material revenue from contracts with customers which are required to be tested for accuracy and completeness in 
accordance with International Financial Reporting Standard 15 ‘Revenue from Contracts with Customers’ (IFRS 15). Revenue 
from contracts with customers has been tested by reference to their completion percentage of the contract. Revenue on contracts is 
recognised based on progress towards satisfaction of performance obligations included in the contracts undertaken, by reference 
to costs incurred as a percentage of total expected costs. There is judgement involved in determining the percentage completion 
as well as in estimating the expected outcome of the contract, both in terms of costs to complete and consideration to be received, 
resulting in a greater risk of error. The risk is more pronounced for contracts which are incomplete at the year end as changes to 
these estimates and judgements could give rise to material variances in the amount of revenue recognised at the year end. Given 
the above, there is a risk that revenue is not accounted for appropriately.

Response

Using a variety of quantitative and qualitative criteria we selected a sample of contracts across the Group to assess and challenge 
the most significant contract assumptions. These criteria included total project value and percentage completion. Our procedures 
included:

•  Assessing and testing historical accuracy of cost and revenue budgeting to gain comfort regarding those contracts in progress 

at the year end to assess the reasonableness of revenue recognised in the current year.

•  Testing allocation of costs to contracts and completeness of costs with reference to third party confirmations.
•  Vouching details to signed contracts and meeting with contract managers responsible for assessing the level of completion of 

contracted work to gain an understanding and obtaining further evidence to support judgements.

•  Reviewing  post  year  end  contract  performance  and  cash  receipts  in  relation  to  that  contract  together  with  performance 

updates from the prior year to assess accuracy of budgeting.

•  Recalculating the expected accrued or deferred income balance where appropriate.
•  Testing reconciliations between data provided by project teams and journals posted to the nominal ledger.

Based on our audit procedures we concluded that revenue and profit had been recognised appropriately and in accordance with 
IFRS 15 in the sample of contracts we assessed.

Valuation of Goodwill and Intangible Fixed Assets

Matter

The Group has material goodwill and other intangible fixed assets balances which are required to be tested for impairment on 
an annual basis in accordance with International Accounting Standard 36 ‘Impairment of Assets’ (IAS 36). Both goodwill and 
intangible fixed assets have been tested by reference to their value in use. Valuations of this nature are inherently subjective and 
involve a high degree of estimation, for example over future cash flows of the Group, discount rates applied to those cash flows 
and terminal growth rates. This gives rise to an increased risk of error in the calculation of value in use and therefore in the overall 
impairment assessment. For the additional goodwill created in the year as a result of the two acquisitions, there is a risk that the 
goodwill value has been calculated incorrectly. 

Management have prepared a detailed impairment review of the intangible assets held by each cash generating unit (“CGU”) 
within  the  Group,  which  identified  a  nil  impairment  charge  and  showed  significant  headroom  when  comparing  the  carrying 
amount to the recoverable amount.

33

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

Valuation of Goodwill and Intangible Fixed Assets (continued)

Response

We have performed audit procedures on management’s impairment assessment, including the following procedures:

•  Testing of the integrity of the cash flow model and the methodology applied.
•  Assessing  key  assumptions  including  future  cash  flows,  discount  rates  and  growth  rates,  including  sensitivity  of  these 

assumptions and assessing the discount rate against supporting documentation and evidence. 

•  Agreeing future cash flows to Board approved budgets and considering the appropriateness of these budgets by reference to 

historical performance of the Group, including comparing budgeted results to forecast results.

•  For additions to goodwill and intangible fixed assets during the year, agreed these through to supporting evidence (including 
share/asset purchase agreements and internal labour costs capitalised) and assessed the assumptions used within the model. 

Based on our audit procedures we concluded that the model itself, the methodology, the forecasts and the assumptions used in 
the calculation were appropriate and we further concluded that management’s impairment review model was reasonable. We 
also found that the additional balances created upon the acquisition of Hevac Limited and HES, had been calculated correctly. 

Materiality

The materiality for the Group statutory financial statements as a whole was set at £1,200,0000. This has been determined with 
reference to a benchmark of the Group’s revenue, which we consider to be an appropriate measure for a Group of companies such 
as these. Materiality represents approximately 1% of Group revenue. In determining the level of testing to be performed during 
our audit work, we used performance materiality of £900,000.

We agreed to report to the Audit Committee any corrected or uncorrected identified misstatements exceeding £60,000, in addition 
to other identified misstatements that warranted reporting on qualitative grounds.

The materiality for the parent company financial statements as a whole was set at £960,000 and performance materiality was 
£768,000. This has been determined with reference to the parent company’s net assets, which we consider to be an appropriate 
measure for a holding company with investments in trading subsidiaries. 

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 as explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion 
thereon.

Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the information is materially inconsistent 
with the financial statements, or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. 
If we identity such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives 
rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. 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.

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

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

• 

• 

the information given in the strategic report and the directors’ report for the financial year for which the financial statements 
are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and
the strategic report and the directors’ report have been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

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.

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:

34

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

Matters on which we are required to report by exception (continued)

• 

adequate accounting records have not been kept, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not 
visited by us; or
the 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

As explained more fully in the Directors’ Responsibilities Statement set out on pages 24–25, 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 
they 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  and  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 they 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.

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

Our assessment focused on key laws and regulations the Group has to comply with and areas of the financial statements we 
assessed as being more susceptible to misstatement. These key laws and regulations included but were not limited to compliance 
with the Companies Act 2006, UK-adopted international accounting standards, and relevant tax legislation.

We are not responsible for preventing irregularities. Our approach to detecting irregularities included, but was not limited to, the 
following: 

•  obtaining  an  understanding  of  the  legal  and  regulatory  framework  applicable  to  the  Group  and  the  parent  company  and 
determined that the most significant which are directly relevant to specific assertions in financial statements are those related 
to the financial reporting framework, being UK adopted international accounting standards in conformity with the Companies 
Act 2006;

•  obtaining  an  understanding  of  the  entity’s  policies  and  procedures  and  how  the  entity  has  complied  with  these,  through 

discussions and sample testing of controls;

•  obtaining an understanding of the entity’s risk assessment process, including the risk of fraud;
•  designing our audit procedures to respond to our risk assessment; and
•  performing audit testing over the risk of management override of controls. Our audit procedures involved:

• 

• 
• 

testing  of  journal  entries  with  a  focus  on  manual  journals  and  other  adjustments  for  appropriateness,  evaluating  the 
business rationale of significant transactions outside the normal course of business, and reviewing accounting estimates 
for bias, specifically in relation to revenue, warranty provision and the defined benefit pension scheme asset; 
evaluating the business rationale of significant transactions outside the normal course of business;
challenging assumptions and judgements made by management in its significant accounting estimates, specifically those 
in relation to the costs of completion for contracts, warranty provision and the defined benefit pension scheme asset. 

•  The engagement partner assessed whether the engagement team collectively had the appropriate competence and capabilities 

to identify and recognise non-compliance with laws and regulations through the following:
•  Understanding  of,  and  practical  experience  with,  audit  engagements  of  a  similar  nature  and  complexity,  though 

appropriate training and participation; and

•  Knowledge of the industry in which the client operates.

35

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

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the statutory financial statements (continued)

These  audit  procedures  were  designed  to  provide  reasonable  assurance  that  the  financial  statements  were  free  from  fraud 
or  error.  However,  detecting  irregularities  that  result  from  fraud  is  inherently  more  difficult  than  detecting  those  that  result 
from error, as those irregularities that result from fraud may involve collusion, deliberate concealment, forgery, or intentional 
misrepresentations. Also, the further removed non-compliance with laws and regulations is from events and transactions reflected 
in the financial statement, the less likely we could become aware of it.

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.

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the parent 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 parent 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 parent company and the parent company’s members as a body, for our audit 
work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Katharine Warrington
(Senior Statutory Auditor)
For and on behalf of

Cooper Parry Group Limited
Statutory Auditor
Sky View
Argosy Road
East Midlands Airport
Castle Donington,
Derby
DE74 2SA
26 September 2023

36

Principal Accounting Policies

Basis of preparation

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with UK-adopted international accounting standards 
and those parts of the Companies Act 2006 that are relevant to companies which apply UK-adopted international accounting 
standards.  The  Company  has  elected  to  prepare  its  Parent  Company  financial  statements  in  accordance  with  UK-adopted 
international accounting standards also, these are presented alongside the Group Disclosures throughout the accounts. As detailed 
in the Report of the Directors, 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 Group’s financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, as discussed in the Director’s Report on page 22. 

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:

Framework  Pronouncement
IFRS

Insurance Contracts

Amendments to IFRS 17

IAS

IAS

IFRS

Disclosure of Accounting Policies

Amendments to IAS 1 

Definition of Accounting Estimates 

Amendments to IAS 8

Deferred tax related to assets and liabilities 
from a single transaction

Amendments to IAS 12

Effective date 
Financial period commencing 
on/after 1 January 2023

Financial periods commencing 
on/after 1 January 2023

Financial periods commencing 
on/after 1 January 2023

Financial periods commencing 
on/after 1 January 2023

New standards adopted
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 
2023. A subsidiary is an entity controlled by the Group. Control exists when the Group has power over an entity, exposure to 
variable returns from its involvement with an entity and the ability to use its power over an entity so as to affect the Group’s 
returns. Subsidiaries are consolidated in accordance UK-adopted international reporting standards and IFRS 10 Consolidated 
Financial Statements. Where a subsidiary has a non-controlling interest, the share of net assets or liabilities of subsidiaries held 
by  third  parties  is  presented  separately  within  equity  in  the  statement  of  financial  position. The  Group  typically  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. Prior year FY22 has therefore been restated as a result.

37

Principal Accounting Policies (Continued)

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.

38

 
Principal Accounting Policies (Continued)

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. 

Once  the  group  determines  that  a  contract  will  be  loss-making,  by  reviewing  future  estimate  costs  and  profit  margins,  full 
provision is made for losses on all contracts in the year in which they are first foreseen.

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.

39

Principal Accounting Policies (Continued)

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. 

Management uses a range of measures to monitor the group’s performance. Management judgement has been used to determine 
those items that should be classified as ‘Adjusted Earnings before interest, tax and amortisation’ so to give a better understanding 
of the underlying trading performance of the group. In order to provide a trend of underlying performance, profit is presented 
excluding items which management consider will distort comparability, either due to their significant non-recurring nature or 
as a result of specific accounting treatment – these include: share based payment expense, acquisition costs, restructuring costs, 
amortisation of intangibles from business combinations and (gain)/loss on derivatives.

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. Land is not depreciated. 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. The discount rate 
for the EPM and PSRE divisions is 11.6% and for the MII division this is 14%.

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.

40

Principal Accounting Policies (Continued)

Leased assets

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:

• 

• 

• 

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 2.9% – 5.8% 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.

Unlisted investments

Unlisted investments are measured at fair value through profit and loss. As quoted prices are unavailable, the Group assesses fair 
value by reference to share issues made by the investment entity during the period, adjusted to consider the timing of issues and 
other available information.

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.

41

Principal Accounting Policies (Continued)

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.

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. If the asset is not in full use 
no amortisation is incurred until the asset is in full use.

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.

42

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal Accounting Policies (Continued)

Intangible assets (continued)

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.

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.

The  development  costs  relating  to  Sellafield  have  been  amortised  on  a  per  box  basis  over  the  total  number  of  boxes  to  be 
delivered for the duration of the contract.

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. 

43

 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal Accounting Policies (Continued)

Equity (continued)

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.

Retained earnings represents accumulated comprehensive income for the year and prior periods less dividends, less actuarial 
gains/losses arising on the remeasurement of the defined benefit pension scheme.

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

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.

44

Principal Accounting Policies (Continued)

Financial assets and liabilities (continued)

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

•   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 25 Financial Instruments for a detailed analysis of how the 
impairment requirements of IFRS 9 are applied.

The incremental costs of obtaining a contract are recognised as a contract asset when they are expected to be recovered from the 
customer. Subsequently, the asset is amortized over the contract life. As a practical expedient, incremental costs of obtaining a 
contract are expensed if the amortisation period would be one year or less.

Exceptional expenses

Items are classified as exceptional where the Directors believe that presentation of the results in this way is useful in providing an 
understanding of the Group’s financial performance. Exceptional items are identified by virtue of their size, nature or incidence.

In determining whether an event or transaction is exceptional, the Directors considers quantitative as well as qualitative factors 
such  as  the  frequency  or  predictability  of  occurrence.  Examples  of  exceptional  items  include  the  costs  of  acquiring  a  new 
subsidiary, share based payments, and restructuring costs.

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.

45

Principal Accounting Policies (Continued)

Financial assets and liabilities (continued)

Classification and measurement of financial liabilities (continued)

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 Limited 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. 

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 £0.5 million 
(2022: £1.7 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.

46

Principal Accounting Policies (Continued)

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

Share-based employee remuneration (continued)

All share-based remuneration is ultimately recognised as an expense in the income statement or an increase in investment in 
subsidiary 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 the income statement. 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.

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, training and facilities. 

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.

A government grant relating to assets is presented as deferred income or by deducting from the assets carrying amount. Where 
deferred income is recognised, it is subsequently released to the income statement 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.

47

Principal Accounting Policies (Continued)

Government grants (continued)

A government grant that becomes repayable shall be accounted for as a change in accounting estimate. Repayment of a grant 
shall be applied against any unamortised deferred credit in respect of the grant.

Stainless Metalcraft (Chatteris) Limited based in Chatteris, UK, was awarded £3.2m grant in 2021 from Cambridgeshire and 
Peterborough Combined Authority Local Growth Fund. The grant has been used to build an apprentice training school. As per 
IAS 20.24 the group has elected to net off the corresponding asset against the deferred income relating to the grant.

Hayward Tyler Limited, based in Luton, UK, was awarded a £3.5 million grant from the Regional Growth Fund prior to the 
2017 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. 

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.

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.

Contingent consideration is initially measured at fair value at the acquisition date. Fair value is estimated by forecasting future 
cash flows and discounting them to reflect the time value of money. Discounting is subsequently unwound over the period, giving 
rise to interest expense in the income statement. Any subsequent changes in managements estimation of fair value is recognised 
as a gain or loss in the income statement.

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.

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.

48

Principal Accounting Policies (Continued)

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

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 26.

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 18. 
The value of contract assets at 31 May 2023 was £25.6m. Intercompany balances and investments held by the Company have 
been reviewed by Management by reviewing future cash flows and despite recent stress in macro economic conditions 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 
2023 was £1.0 million (note 20).

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 £8.4 million 
(2022: £10.5 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 2023 was £0.5 million (2022: £1.7million). Further 
details of the pension scheme are in note 29.

49

Consolidated Income Statement

For the year ended 31 May 2023

Revenue 

Cost of sales 

Gross profit 

Distribution costs 
Administrative expenses 

Note 

2023 
£’000 

2022
£’000

2 

116,437 

99,075

(78,137) 

(65,242)

38,300 

33,833

(4,458) 
(25,866) 

(3,630)
(23,018)

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  

13 
28 
36 

2 

5 
6 

3 
9 

9,452 
(993) 
(237) 
(14) 
(232) 

– 

7,976 

109 
(609) 

7,476 
(1,246) 

6,230 

Profit after taxation from discontinued operations 

36 

(1,168) 

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 29) 
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 

37 

11 
11 

11 
11 

5,062 

5,194 

(132) 

5,062 

19.4p 
18.9p 

15.7p 
15.3p 

2023 
£’000 

5,062 

(1,388) 
347 

(579) 

3,442 

The principal accounting policies and notes on pages 37 to 92 form part of these financial statements.

50

8,494
(869)
(188)
(29)
(93)

(130)

7,185

176
(386)

6,975
(971)

6,004

57

6,061

6,478

(417)

6,061

18.7p
18.1p

18.9p
18.3p

2022
£’000

6,061

95
(24)

1,445

7,577

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Balance Sheet

For the year ended 31 May 2023 

Non-current assets 
Goodwill 
Other intangible assets 
Property, plant and equipment 
Deferred tax 
Unlisted Investments 
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 
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 

Note 

2023  
£’000  

2022
£’000

21,420
15,675
25,239
1,544
4,000
1,688

69,566

11,759
46,817
1,579
686
24,287

21,585 
18,790 
23,612 
666 
8,000 
526 

73,179 

12,656 
49,691 
1,550 
618 
17,717 

82,232 
155,411 

85,128
154,694  

(32,140) 
(1,503) 
(3,077) 
(1,303) 
(1,315) 
(15) –

(29,629)
(1,605)
(5,497)
(710)
(1,770)

(39,353) 

(39,211)

(669) 
(3,328) 
(3,238) 
(368) 

(7,603) 

(762)
(3,097)
(4,465)
(1,342)

(9,666)

(46,956) 

(48,877)

108,455 

105,817

1,612 
15,979 
1,299 
1,170 
28,949 
1,457 
(4,235) 
59,811 

1,607
15,693
1,299
825
28,949
1,457
(4,235)
58,223

12 
13 
14 
26 
16 
29 

17 
18 
18 
9 
19 

21 
24 
23 
9 
20 
23 

23 
24 
26 
22 

27 

35 

Total equity attributable to equity holders of the parent 

Non-controlling interest 

Total equity 

106,042 

103,818

37 

2,413 

1,999

108,455 

105,817

The principal accounting policies and notes on pages 37 to 92 form part of these financial statements.

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors and authorised for issue on 26 September 2023 and signed on 
its behalf by:

S M King, Director. Company number: 1968354 

51

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Company Balance Sheet 

For the year ended 31 May 2023 

Note 

Non-current assets 
Investments 
Deferred tax asset 

Current assets 

Trade and other receivables 
Cash at bank and in hand 

Total assets 

Current liabilities 
Trade and other payables 
Borrowings 

Total current liabilities 

Non-current liabilities 
Borrowings 

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 
26 

18 
19 

21 
23 

23 

27 

2023  
£’000  

54,695 

404 –

2022
£’000

46,298

55,099 

46,298

12,981 
6,404 

19,385 
74,484 

14,800
14,761

29,561
75,859

(585) 
(83) 

(668) 

– 

– 

(580)
(182)

(762)

(68)

(68)

(668) 

(830)

73,816 

75,029

1,612 
15,979 
1,299 
28,949 
237 
25,740 

73,816 

1,607
15,693
1,299
28,949
237
27,244

75,029

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 
£410k (2022: £696k).

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors and authorised for issue on 26 September 2023 signed on its 
behalf by:

S M King
Director 
Company number: 01968354

The principal accounting policies and notes on pages 37 to 92 form part of these financial statements.

52

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity

For the year ended 31 May 2023 

  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 2021 

1,599 

15,347 

1,299 

28,949 

(732) 

1,457 

(4,235) 

53,614 

97,298 

1,665 

98,963

Ordinary shares issued 

Dividends paid 

Share-based pay-ments 

Total transactions with owners 

Profit for the year 

Investment in subsidiary with  
non-controlling interest 

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 2022 

8 

– 

– 

8 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

346 

– 

– 

346 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

112 

– 

– 

1,445 

1,557 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

354 

(1,265) 

(1,265) 

188 

188 

(1,077) 

(723) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

354

(1,265)

188

(723) 

6,478 

6,478 

(417) 

6,061

(863) 

(751) 

751 

–

95 

95 

(24) 

(24) 

– 

1,445 

– 

– 

– 

95

(24)

1,445

5,686 

7,243 

334 

7,577

1,607 

15,693 

1,299 

28,949 

825 

1,457 

(4,235) 

58,223 

103,818 

1,999 

105,817

The principal accounting policies and notes on pages 37 to 92 form part of these financial statements.

53

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023 

  Capital 
Share  redemp- 

Total
  Attribut-
able 

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 

At 1 June 2022 

1,607 

15,693 

1,299 

28,949 

825 

1,457 

(4,235) 

58,223 

103,818 

1,999 

105,817

Ordinary shares issued 

Dividends paid 

Share-based pay-ments 

Total transactions with owners 

Profit for the year 

Investment in subsidiary with 
non-controlling interest 

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 2023 

5 

– 

– 

5 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

286 

– 

– 

286 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

924 

– 

– 

(579) 

345 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

291 

(1,331) 

(1,331) 

237 

237 

(1,094) 

(803) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

291

(1,331)

237

(803) 

5,194 

5,194 

(132) 

5,062

(1,470) 

(546) 

546 

–

(1,388) 

(1,388) 

347 

– 

347 

(579) 

– 

– 

– 

(1,388)

347

(579)

2,683 

3,028 

414 

3,442

1,612 

15,979 

1,299 

28,949 

1,170 

1,457 

(4,235) 

59,812 

106,043 

2,413 

108,455

The principal accounting policies and notes on pages 37 to 92 form part of these financial statements.

54

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Company Statement of Changes in Equity

For the year ended 31 May 2023

Share 
premium 
account  
£’000 

Capital
redemp 
-tion 
 reserve 
£’000 

Merger 
reserve 
£’000 

Other 
 reserves 
£’000 

Retained
earnings 
£’000 

15,347 

346 

– 

– 

346 

– 

– 

1,299 

28,949 

237 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

29,017 

– 

(1,265) 

188 

(1,077) 

(696) 

(696) 

Share 
capital  
£’000 

1,599 

8 

– 

– 

8 

– 

– 

Total
£’000

76,448

354

(1,265)

188

(723)

(696)

(696)

1,607 

15,693 

1,299 

28,949 

237 

27,244 

75,029

At 1 June 2021 

Ordinary shares issued 

Dividends paid 

Share-based pay-ments 

Total transactions with owners 

Loss for the year 

Total comprehensive income  
for the year 

Balance at  
31 May 2022 

At 1 June 2022 

1,607 

Ordinary shares issued (note 27) 

Dividends Paid (note 10) 

Share-based payments (note 28) 

Total transactions with owners 

Loss for the year 

Total comprehensive  
expense for the year 

Balance at  
31 May 2023 

15,693 

286 

– 

– 

286 

– 

– 

1,299 

28,949 

237 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

27,244 

– 

(1,331) 

237 

(1,094) 

(410) 

75,029

291

(1,331)

237

(803)

(410)

(410) 

(410)

5 

– 

– 

5 

– 

– 

1,612 

15,979 

1,299 

28,949 

237 

25,740 

73,816

The principal accounting policies and notes on pages 37 to 92 form part of these financial statements.

55

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

For the year ended 31 May 2023

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

Net cash inflow from operating activities 

Investing activities 
Acquisition of subsidiary undertakings, net of cash acquired 

Investment in unlisted undertaking 

Disposal of a subsidiary undertaking, net of cash disposed 
Finance income 
Purchase of intangible assets 

Purchase of property, plant and equipment 

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment 

Note 

30 

36 

16 

36 

2023 
£’000 

10,682 
(620) 
(331) 
(164) 

9,567 

(852) 

(4,000) 

877 –
109 
(5,401) 

(3,291) 

34 

2022
£’000

4,173
(388)
203
(282)

3,706

(582)

(4,000)

176
(1,996)

(2,989)

44

Net cash used in from investing activities 

(12,524) 

(9,347) 

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

Net cash outflow from financing activities 

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

(1,331) 
(2,843) 
(1,771) 
291 
2,254 

(3,400) 

(6,356) 
23,902 
(160) 

(1,265)
(468)
(1,486)
355
2,493

(371)

(6,012)
29,736
178

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 

19 

17,386 

23,902

The principal accounting policies and notes on pages 37 to 92 form part of these financial statements.

56

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Company Statement of Cash Flow

For the year ended 31 May 2023

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

Net cash outflow from operating activities 

Investing activities 
Investment in subsidiary undertaking 
Repayment/(loan to) from subsidiary undertakings 
Acquisition of investment in unlisted undertaking 
Equity dividends received 
Finance income 

Net cash utilised by investing activities 

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

Net cash outflows from financing activities 

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

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 

Note 

31 

15 

16 

2023 
£’000 

(1,129) 
(6) 
(224) 

(1,359) 

(4,297) 
2,019 
(4,000) 
– –
487 

(5,791) 

(1,331) 
(167) 
291 

(1,207) 

(8,357) 
14,761 

2022
£’000

(1,781)
(6)
545

(1,242)

(2,059)
(1,640)
(4,000)

238

(7,461)

(1,265)
(182)
354

(1,093)

(9,796)
24,557

19 

6,404 

           14,761

The principal accounting policies and notes on pages 37 to 92 form part of these financial statements.

57

 
            
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report

For the year ended 31 May 2023

1

2

Corporate information 
The consolidated financial statements of Avingtrans plc and its subsidiaries (collectively the Group) for the year ended 31 May 
2023 were authorised for issue in accordance with a resolution of the directors on 26 September 2023. 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. 

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 Officer. 

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).

From 1 June 2022, the Group’s Hayward Tyler Fluid Handling business has been transferred from the PSRE division to the EPM 
division. Prior year figures have been restated for comparability.

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 2023 

Original Equipment 
After Market 

Revenue 

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

21,389 
43,200 

64,589 

5,564 
(422) 
(645) 

4,497 

42,030 
48,933 

90,963 
(28,899) 

62,064 

1,351 
1,773 

3,124 

Energy 
PSRE 
£’000 

45,413 
2,806 

48,219 

4,581 
(74) 
(666) 

3,841 

12,106 
22,995 

35,101 
(13,635) 

21,466 

363 
1,048 

1,411 

3,595 
34 

3,629 

(1,010) 
(39) 
(17) 

(1,066) 

11,043 
2,544 

13,587 
(4,073) 

9,514 

3,848 
470 

4,318 

Other income statement items:
Depreciation and amortisation 

(2,528) 

(1,452) 

(314) 

Total
£’000

70,397
46,040

116,437

7,976
(500)
(1,246)

6,230

73,179
82,232

155,411
(46,956)

– 
– 

– 

(1,159) 
35 
82 

(1,042) 

8,000 
7,760 

15,760 
(349) 

15,411 

108,455

– 
– 

– 

– 

5,562
3,291

8,853

(4,294)

Unallocated assets/ (liabilities) consist primarily of interest-bearing assets and liabilities and income tax assets and liabilities. 

Segmental analysis has been revised for FY22 following the segment move from PSRE to EPM for Hayward Tyler Fluid Handling.

58

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

2

Segmental analysis (continued)

Year ended 31 May 2022 

Original Equipment 
After Market 

Revenue 

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

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: 

Energy 
EPM 
£’000 

16,188 
39,938 

56,126 

5,005 
(126) 
(1,036) 

3,843 

44,782 
45,618 

90,400 
(25,260) 

Energy 
PSRE 
£’000 

38,309 
2,183 

40,492 

4,543 
(56) 
(464) 

4,023 

13,206 
19,191 

32,397 
(17,376) 

65,140 

15,021 

500 
962 

1,462 

147 
1,429 

1,576 

Medical 
MII 
£’000 

Unallocated
central items 
 £’000 

2,426 
31 

2,457 

(1,291) 
(23) 
149 

(1,165) 

7,578 
1,828 

9,406 
(3,539) 

5,867 

1,615 
598 

2,213 

Total
£’000

56,923
42,152

99,075

7,185
(210)
(971)

6,004

69,566
85,128

154,694
(48,877)

– 
– 

– 

(1,072) 
(5) 
380 

(697) 

4,000 
18,491 

22,491 
(2,702) 

19,789 

105,817

– 
– 

– 

– 

2,262
2,989

5,251

(3,940)

Depreciation and amortisation 

(2,541) 

(1,032) 

(367) 

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 (excluding 
deferred tax assets and defined benefit pension surplus) by geographical market:

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

2023  

Revenue  
£’000  

53,076  
7,411  
28,955  
2,705  
5,059  
10,297  
8,934  

116,437  

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

Over time 
Point in time 

2022 

Revenue 
£’000 

2023 

2022
  Non-current  Non-current 
Assets
£’000

Assets 
£’000 

45,144 
6,695 
23,383 
1,633 
3,767 
9,057 
9,396 

99,075 

34,954 
– –
27,473 
– –
– –
723 
8,837 

31,498

27,933

1,771
5,132

71,987 

66,334

2023 
£’000 

70,515 
45,922 

116,437 

2022
£’000

46,566
52,509

99,075

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

59

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

2

Segmental analysis (continued)

Contract assets and liabilities

Contract assets: 
Energy – EPM 
Energy – PSRE 
Medical – MII 

Contract liabilities: 
Energy – EPM 
Energy – PSRE 
Medical – MII 

2023  
£’000 

13,740 
11,014 
890 

25,644 

(2,050) 
(1,030) 
(70) 

(3,150) 

2022
£’000

19,041
7,992
213

27,246

(844)
(1,932)
(297)

(3,073)

A  contract  asset/liability  is  recognised  where  payment  is  received  in  arrears/advance  of  the  revenue  recognised  in  meeting 
performance obligations. At 31 May 2023, a greater proportion of the business’s contracts had payments in arrears.

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

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 

60

2023  
£’000 

(3,073) 
3,073 
(3,150) 

(3,150) 

2023 
£’000 

3,720 
1 
443 
71,764 
19 
(9) 
42,644 
12 
453 

2023 
£’000 

100 

214 

2022 
£’000

(4,468)
4,468
(3,073)

(3,073)

2022
£’000

3,434
40
374
61,471
(330)
(1,327)
33,821
14
403

2022
£’000

96

171

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

4

Adjusted Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation

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

Adjusted profit before tax from continuing operations 

Finance income 
Finance cost 
Gain/(loss) on derivatives 

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

Depreciation 
Amortisation of other intangible assets 
Amortisation of contract assets 
Adjusted Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation  
(‘EBITDA’) from continuing operations 

2023 
£’000 

7,476 
237 
14 
232 
– 
14 
993 

8,966 

(109) 
609 
(14) 

9,452 

3,720 
444 
130 

2022
£’000

6,975
188
29
93
130
(144)
869

8,140

(176)
386
144

8,494

3,434
374
132

13,746 

12,434

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

All costs noted above, apart from the share-based payment expense, depreciation and amortisation of intangibles had a reduction 
in the cashflow in the year. The tax impact on the above costs is relatively immaterial.

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

Interest from the unwinding of long-term liabilities 
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

2023 
£’000 

47 
62 
– 

109 

2022
£’000

4
28
144

176

Group

2023 
£’000 

2022
£’000

25 
9 
14 
304 
32 
225 

609 

18
9
1
146
24
188

386

61

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

7

Directors’ emoluments

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

Salary  
and 
 Fees 
£’000 

82 
42 
42 
39 

318 
269 

792 

Bonus 
£’000 

Benefits  
£’000 

Total 
2023 
£’000 

Total 
2022 
£’000 

Pension 
Total 
2023 
£’000 

Pension 
Total
2022
£’000

– 
– 
– 
– 

64 
54 

118 

– 
– 
– 
– 

2 
– 

2 

82 
42 
42 
39 

384 
323 

912 

78 
38 
38 
9 

425 
345 

933 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 

– 

–
–
–
–

–
–

–

Non-executive: 
R S McDowell 
J S Clarke 
L J Thomas 
J S Reedman 

Executive: 
S McQuillan 
S M King 

Total emoluments 

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 (2022: nil). 

Employers National Insurance Contributions made relating to directors’ emoluments were £137,000 (2022: £135,000).

During 2023 S McQuillan and S M King exercised 115,000 and 100,000 approved share options respectively resulting in paper 
capital gains of £116,000 and £101,000 as set out on page 31 (2022: S McQuillan and S M King exercised Nil share options).

8

Employees

Particulars of employees, including Executive Directors:

Wages and salaries 
Social security costs 
Other pension costs 
Share-based payment expense (note 28) 

2023 
£’000 

37,195 
3,473 
1,739 
237 

42,644 

2022
£’000

29,188
2,811
1,634
188

33,821

Discontinued operations wages and salaries of £489,000 (2022 £489,000) 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 

2023 
Number 

2022
Number

412 
61 
259 

732 

373
50
255

678

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’.

62

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

8

Employees (continued) 

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 – current year 
Overseas tax – prior year 

Total current tax 
Deferred tax (note 26) 
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 

2023 
£’000 

1,580 
9 
181 

1,770 

2022   
£’000 

1,532
7
124

1,663

2023 
£’000 

2022
£’000 

– –
77 
970 
210 

1,257 

(15) 
4 
– 

(11) 

1,246 

– –

141
225
(480)

(114)

860
170
55

1,085

971

1,246 

971

Corporation  tax  is  calculated  at  20%  (2022:  19%)  of  the  estimated  assessable  profit/loss  for  the  year.  Taxation  for  other 
jurisdictions is calculated at the rates prevailing in the respective jurisdictions.

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 20% (2022: 19%) 
Effects of: 
Income/(expenditure) that is not tax deductible 
Un-provided deferred tax differences 
Adjustments in respect of prior years 
Recognition of previously unrecognised losses 
Movement in unprovided deferred tax assets 
Change in deferred tax rate 
Differential in overseas tax rate 

Total tax charge 

2023 
£’000 

7,476 
(616) 

6,860 

1,372 

120 
(177) –
(467) 

226 
47 
125 

1,246 

2022
£’000 

6,975
57

7,032

1,336

(134)

(169)
–
(377)
55
260

971

The Group has tax losses carried forward of approximately £20.6 million at 31 May 2023 (2022: £26.8 million) that may be 
relievable against future profits. Further details are detailed in note 26.

63

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

9

Taxation (continued) 

The Group’s corporation tax assets and liabilities can be summarised as follows:

Current tax assets 
Corporation tax 

Current tax liabilities 
Corporation tax 

Corporation tax assets includes refunds due on US taxes and R&D claims made in the UK.

10

Dividends

Interim dividend paid of 1.6p per ordinary share (2022: nil p) 
Final dividend paid of 2.6p per ordinary share (2022: 4.0 p) 

The above excludes any proposed dividend not yet paid as disclosed in the strategic report.

2023 
£’000 

618 

618 

(1,303) 

(685) 

2023 
£’000 

507 –
824 

1,331 

2022
£’000

686

686

(710)

(24)

2022
£’000

1,265

1,265

64

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

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/(gain) 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 

2023 
Number 

2022
Number

32,187,135 
820,074 

32,070,325
1,063,674

33,007,209 

33,133,999

2023 
£’000 

6,230 
237 
14 
232 
– 
14 
993 
7,720 

19.4p 
24.0p 
18.9p 
23.4p 

(1,168) 

(3.6)p 
(3.6)p 
(3.5)p 
(3.5)p 

5,062 

15.7p 
20.4p 
15.3p 
19.9p 

2022
£’000

6,004
188
29
93
130
(144)
869
7,169

18.7p
22.4p
18.1p
21.6p

57

0.2p
0.2p
0.2p
0.2p

7,226

18.9p
22.5p
18.3p
21.8p

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 2023 (2022: Nil) that are not included within diluted earnings per share because they are 
anti-dilutive.

65

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

12

Goodwill 

Cost 
At 1 June 2021 
Acquisition of subsidiary undertaking 
Exchange movement 

At 1 June 2022 
Acquisition of subsidiary undertaking (note 36) 
Exchange movement 

At 31 May 2023 

Accumulated impairment losses 
At 1 June 2021 
Impairment charge 

At 1 June 2022 
Impairment charge 

At 31 May 2023 

Net book value 
At 31 May 2023 

At 31 May 2022 

£’000

22,227
156
42

22,425
188
(23)

22,590

1,005
–

1,005
–

1,005 

21,585 

21,420

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 

2023 
£’000 

15,351 
5,282 
952 

21,585 

2022
£’000

15,347
5,094
979

21,420

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 to six years and derives cash flows for the following years based on estimated growth rates for the specific markets in which 
each CGU operates. Growth rates vary by site and all fall in the range of 0.4% to 4.0%. 

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 11.6% (2022: 10.8%), and for the MII 
division is 14.0% (2022: 12.1%) 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 (2022: £nil). 
If the discount rate was increased by 1% no impairment would arise (2022: £nil).

66

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

13

Other intangible assets – group

Cost 

At 1 June 2021 

Additions 

Acquisition of subsidiary  
undertakings 

Transfers 

Disposals 

Exchange adjustments 

At 1 June 2022 

Additions 

Acquisition of subsidiary  
undertakings (note 36) 

Transfers 

Disposals 

Exchange adjustments 

Customer 

Relationships  Order book 
£’000 

£’000 

  Development
costs 
£’000 

Brand 
£’000 

Software 
£’000 

9,041 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

9,041 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

180 

– 

– 

– 

180 

– 

162 

– 

– 

– 

1,961 

– 

43 

– 

– 

7 

2,011 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

8,891 

1,962 

– 

– 

– 

195 

11,048 

5,315 

– 

– 

(373) 

(621) 

720 

34 

– 

31 

(17) 

(11) 

757 

85 

– 

– 

– 

(2) 

Total
£’000

20,613

1,996

223

31

(17)

191

23,037

5,400

162

–

(373)

(623)

At 31 May 2023 

9,041 

342 

2,011 

15,369 

840 

27,603 

Accumulated amortisation 

At 1 June 2021 

Charge for continuing operations 

Transfer 

Exchange adjustments 

Disposals 

At 1 June 2022 

Charge for continuing operations 

Exchange adjustments 

Transfer 

Disposals 

At 31 May 2023 

Net book value at 31 May 2023 

Net book value at 31 May 2022 

2,608 

695 

– 

– 

– 

3,303 

696 

– 

– 

– 

3,999 

5,042 

5,738 

– 

35 

– 

– 

– 

35 

284 

– 

– 

– 

319 

23 

145 

505 

154 

– 

(1) 

– 

658 

166 

(10) 

– 

– 

814 

1,197 

1,353 

2,496 

334 

(43) 

– 

– 

2,787 

216 

36 

– 

– 

3,039 

12,330 

8,261 

541 

25 

31 

(14) 

(4) 

579 

74 

(11) 

– 

– 

642 

198 

178 

6,150

1,243

(12)

(15)

(4)

7,362

1,436

15

–

–

8,813

18,790

15,675

67

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

14

Property, plant and equipment – group 

Land 

Plant and 
and buildings  Machinery 
£’000 

£’000 

  Equipment
and motor
vehicles 
£’000 

Cost
At 1 June 2021 
Acquisitions 
Additions 
Disposals 
Exchange adjustments 

At 1 June 2022 
Acquisitions (note 36) 
Additions 
Disposals 
Disposal of company 
Transfer 
Exchange adjustments 

At 31 May 2023 

Accumulated depreciation 
At 1 June 2021 
Charge for continuing operations 
Disposals 
Exchange adjustments 

At 1 June 2022 
Charge for continuing operations 
Charge for discontinuing operations 
Disposals 
Transfer 
Exchange adjustments 

At 31 May 2023 

Net book value at 31 May 2023 

Net book value at 31 May 2022 

19,896 
– 
1,745 
(520) 
396 

21,517 
– 
1,648 
– 
(374) 
599 
(49) 

23,341 

4,199 
1,483 
(520) 
199 

5,361 
1,629 
52 
(366) 
417 
(17) 

7,076 

16,265 

16,156 

14,442 
52 
900 
(73) 
599 

15,920 
26 
990 
(77) 
(1,825) 
(506) 
15 

14,543 

6,466 
1,528 
(11) 
198 

8,181 
1,474 
51 
(995) 
(391) 
– 

8,320 

6,223 

7,739 

Total
£’000

37,803
56
2,989
(727)
1,205

41,326
28
3,291
(187)
(2,593)
–
(12)

41,853

12,520
3,675
(659)
551

16,087
3,720
114
(1,680)
–
–

18,241

3,465 
4 
344 
(134) 
210 

3,889 
2 
653 
(110) 
(394) 
(93) 
22 

3,969 

1,855 
664 
(128) 
154 

2,545 
617 
11 
(319) 
(26) 
17 

2,845 

1,124 

23,612

1,344 

25,239

During the year, the assets of Metalcraft (Chengdu) Limited and Metalcraft (Sichuan) Limited were disposed of. See note 36 for 
more detail.

Right-of-use assets

Included in land and buildings, plant and equipment are right-of-use assets as follows:

Land and buildings 
Plant and machinery 
Equipment and motor vehicles 

68

Net book 
value  
£’000 

Additions  Depreciation  
expense
£’000

£’000 

3,227 
96 
65 

3,388 

1,377 
– 
– 

1,377 

922
48
64

1,034

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

15

Investments

Cost 
At 1 June 2021 
Investment in subsidiary undertaking 
Investment in Unlisted Equity 

At 1 June 2022 
Investment in Unlisted Entity 
Investment in subsidiary undertaking 

At 31 May 2023 

Provision 
At 1 June 2021 
Investment written off 

 At 1 June 2022 and 31 May 2023 

Net book value at 31 May 2023 

Net book value at 31 May 2022 

Unlisted  
Investments 
£’000 

Group 
undertakings 
£’000 

Capital 
contributions 
£’000 

– 
– 
4,000 

4,000 
4,000 
– 

8,000 

– 
– 

– 

8,000 

4,000 

44,409 
2,059 
– 

46,468 
4,297 
– 

50,765 

4,550 
– 

4,550 

46,215 

41,918 

292 
88 
– 

380 
100 
– 

480 

– 
– 

– 

480 

380 

Total
£’000

44,701
2,147
4,000

50,848
8,397
–

59,245

4,550
–

4,550

54,695

46,298

In the period the Company purchased additional shares in Magnetica to increase the shareholding from 61.3% to 71.7% owed. 

The Company has the following investments in Ordinary shares in subsidiaries:      

Name

Registered office

Principal activity

Stainless Metalcraft (Chatteris) Limited

15 Honeysome Road, Chatteris, Cambridgeshire, PE16 6SA

Trading

Booth Industrial Industries Limited

15 Honeysome Road, Chatteris, Cambridgeshire, PE16 6SA

Trading

Maloney Metalcraft Limited 

15 Honeysome Road, Chatteris, Cambridgeshire, PE16 6SA

Trading

Composite Products Limited 

15 Honeysome Road, Chatteris, Cambridgeshire, PE16 6SA

Trading

Space Cryomagnetics Limited **

7 Suffolk Way, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 5JX

Scientific Magnetics Limited **

7 Suffolk Way, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 5JX

Hayward Tyler Limited *

1 Kimpton Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3LD

Hayward Tyler Inc *

480 Roosevelt Highway, Colchester, Vermont 05446-0680

Energy Steel & Supply Co. *

1785 Northfield Dr, Rochester Hills, Michigan 48309

Hayward Tyler Pumps (Kunshan) Co 
Limited *

243 Huang Pujiang Kunshan, Jiangsu Province, 215300

Trading

Trading

Trading

Trading

Trading

Trading

Hayward Tyler India PTE Limited *

509-510 Charmwood Plaza, EROS Garden, Faridabad 121009

Trading

Hayward Tyler Fluid Handling Limited *

1 Kimpton Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3LD

Transkem Plant Limited

41 Glenburn Road, East Kilbride, Glasgow, G74 5BJ

Tecmag Inc **

10161 Harwin Dr. #150, Houston, TX 77036

Magnetica Limited ACN **

Unit 4, 115 Frederick St, Northgate, Queensland 4013

Hayward Tyler Group plc

Atla Group Limited, Burleigh Manor, Douglas, IM1 5EP

Southbank UK Limited *

1 Kimpton Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3LD

Trading

Trading

Trading

Trading

Holding

Property

69

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

15

Investments (continued)

Name

Registered office

Principal activity

Hayward Tyler Group Limited *

1 Kimpton Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3LD

Hayward Tyler Holdings Limited *

1 Kimpton Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3LD

Hayward Tyler Holding Inc *

480 Roosevelt Highway, Colchester, Vermont 05446-0680

Nviro Cleantech Limited *

1 Kimpton Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3LD

Redglade Associates Limited *

1 Kimpton Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3LD

Redglade Investments Limited *

1 Kimpton Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3LD

Hayward Tyler Pension Plan Trustees 
Limited*

1 Kimpton Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3LD

Hayward Tyler (UK) Limited *

1 Kimpton Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3LD

Appleton & Howard Limited *

1 Kimpton Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3LD

Credit Montague Limited *

1 Kimpton Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3LD

Holding

Holding

Holding

Holding

Property

Holding

Pension

Dormant

Dormant

Dormant

Dormant

Mullins Limited *

Crown UK Limited

* Indirectly owned subsidiary.

1 Kimpton Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3LD

15 Honeysome Road, Chatteris, Cambridgeshire, PE16 6SA

Dormant

** All subsidiaries are 100% owned with the exception of Magnetica (71.7% owned, 2022: 61.3%) and its 100% owned subsidiaries 
Space Cryomagnetics Limited, Scientific Magnetics Limited and Tecmag Inc. 

The following UK subsidiary undertakings are exempt from the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 (the Act) relating to the 
audit of the individual accounts by virtue of section 479A of the Act: 

Name

Company number

Southbank UK Limited

Hayward Tyler Group Limited

Hayward Tyler Holdings Limited

Redglade Associates Limited

Redglade Investments Ltd

Transkem Plant Limited

07574162

03232768

03251397

05303263

05501823

SC017991

Avingtrans will guarantee all outstanding liabilities that these subsidiaries are subject to as at the financial year end 31 May 2023 
in accordance with 479C of the Act, as amended by the Companies and Limited Liability Partnerships (Accounts and Audit 
Exemptions and Change of Accounting Framework) Regulations 2012. In addition, Avingtrans will guarantee any contingent and 
prospective liabilities that these subsidiaries are subject to.

70

Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

16

Unlisted Investment

Movements 
At 1 June 2021  
Additions 
Revaluations 

At 1 June 2022 
Additions 
Revaluations 

At 31 May 2023 

Unlisted  
Investments
£’000

–
4,000
–

4,000
4,000
–

8,000

The unlisted investment relates a convertible loan and shares in Adaptix Ltd (“Adaptix”). At 31 May 2023, the Group owned 
18.0% (2022: 11.9%) of Adaptix’s issued shares. Both convertible bonds and shares investments are accounted for at fair value. 

At 31 May 2023, the Group held a convertible loan valued at £3,000,000 (2022: £nil). The convertible loan has a principal value 
of £2,000,000 and a 3-year term. The convertible loan attracts interest at 12% which is payable at maturity. The loan can be 
converted by the Group at any point over the term at a conversion rate of £5 per share.

At 31 May 2023, the Group held shares valued at £5,000,000 (2022: £4,000,000). 

Fair value

As the quoted prices (level 1 inputs) for these shares ae unavailable, we have used observable inputs (level 2 inputs) to determine 
the  fair  value.  Other  observable  inputs  include  recent  share  transactions,  financial  forecasts  and  other  information  obtained 
attendance at the investment’s board meetings. 

Nature and extent of risks arising from unlisted investments

The Group is exposed to a number of risks including credit risk, foreign exchange risk and interest rate risk. 

Credit risk relates to the convertible loan. It represents the risk that Adaptix will be unable to repay the £2.0m loan principal and 
interest at the maturity. 

Foreign  exchange  risk  impacts  both  the  convertible  loan  and  the  shares. A  significant  portion  of Adaptix’s  cash  inflows  are 
anticipated in foreign currencies. A strengthening of GBP against foreign currencies would reduce the value of those currencies 
on translation, potentially resulting in lower valuations.

Interest rate risk impacts the convertible loan and the shares. Rising interest rates impact discount rates for future cash flows. This 
in turn can lead to lower present values for future cash flows, potentially resulting in lower valuations. 

Further details on the Group’s risk management practises can be found in note 25.

17

Inventories
                                                                                                                                                                                    Group

Raw materials and consumables 
Work in progress 
Finished goods  

2023 
£’000 

6,628 
2,788 
3,240 

2022
£’000

6,772
2,036
2,951

12,656 

11,759

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 £473,000 (2022: £93,000). The stock provision included within raw materials 
is £1,808,000 (2022: £1,693,000).

71

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

18

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 

2023 
£’000 

21,981 
(260) 

21,721 

618 
– 
3,258 
24,094 

49,691 

2022 
£’000 

17,974 
(150) 

17,824 

679 
– 
2,647 
25,667 

46,817 

2023 
£’000 

2022
£’000

– –
– –

– –

4,246 
8,508 
227 
– –

4,246
10,527
27

12,981 

14,800

1,550 

1,579 

– –

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 in note 25 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. 

19

Cash and cash equivalents 

Cash and cash equivalents included the following components:

Group 

Company

31 May  
2023 
£’000 

12,499 
3,655 
22 
1,541 
17,717 
(331) 

17,386 

31 May 
2022 
£’000 

22,203 
689 
3 
1,392 
24,287 
(385) 

23,902 

31 May 
2023 
£’000 

6,404 
– –
– –
– –
6,404 
– –

6,404 

31 May 
2022
£’000

14,761

14,761

14,761

Cash at bank and in hand: 
GBP 
USD 
EUR 
Other 
Total cash at bank and in hand 
Overdraft (note 23): 

Total cash and cash equivalents 

72

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

20

Provisions
The carrying amounts and the movements in the provision account are as follows:

Carrying amount 
1 June 2021 
Additional provisions 
Amounts utilised 
Reversals 
Exchange adjustments  

1 June 2022 

Additional provisions 
Through business combinations 
Amounts utilised 
Reversals 
Exchange adjustments  

31 May 2023 

  Loss making
  and onerous

Warranty 
£’000 

contracts  Dilapidations 
£’000 

£’000 

1,495 
397 
(539) 
(48) 
110 

1,415 

1,797 
– 
(972) 
(1,277) 
2 

965 

162 
168 
(72) 
– 
7 

265 

161 
236 
(378) 
– 
1 

285 

85 
– 
– 
– 
5 

90 

– 
– 
– 
(27) 
2 

65 

Total
£’000

1,742
565
(611)
(48)
122

1,770

1,958
236
(1,350)
(1,304)
5

1,315

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.

Dilapidations: Provision for dilapidation mainly represents the estimated cost to restore the property to the agreed condition set 
out in the lease rental agreement. 

The Company had £nil (2022: £nil) provision at year end.

21

Trade and other payables

Trade payables 
Other tax and social security 
Other payables 
Contract liabilities 
Accruals   

   Group                                         Company

2023 
£’000  

14,654 
1,899 
1,960 
3,150 
10,477 

32,140 

2022 
£’000 

10,563 
2,515 
1,290 
3,073 
12,188 

29,629 

2023 
£’000 

2022
£’000

100 
36 
170 
– –
279 

585 

72
36
174

298

580

73

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

22

Other creditors 

Non-current 
Other creditors 

   Group                                         Company

2023 
£’000  

2022 
£’000 

2023 
£’000 

2022
£’000 

368 

1,342 

– 

–

Other creditors relates to deferred grant income received from the Regional Growth Fund for capital investment. During the 
year the Group agreed the repayment of £639k of the original £3,500k grant due to not achieving all the targets. Payment will 
be made in FY24.

The deferred grant income will be amortised in the income statement over the life of the assets which the grant relates to. 

23

Financial assets and liabilities

The carrying amounts of financial assets and financial liabilities in each category are as follows:    

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 (note 24) 

Financial liabilities measured at FVTPL: 
Derivative financial instruments 
Contingent/deferred consideration 

   Group                                         Company

2023 
£’000  

2022 
£’000 

2023 
£’000 

21,721 
17,717 

39,438 

14,654 
10,477 
3,746 
4,831 

33,708 

15 
– 

17,824 
24,287 

42,111 

10,563 
12,188 
6,259 
4,702 

33,712 

– 
343 

8,508 
6,404 

14,912 

100 
279 
83 
– -

462 

– –
– –

2022
£’000

10,527
14,761

25,288

72
298
250

620

Total financial liabilities 

33,723 

34,055 

462 

620

A description of the Group’s financial instrument risks is included in note 25.

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 

74

   Group                                         Company

2023 
£’000  

2,885 
861 

3,746 

3,077 

669 

2022 
£’000 

2,509 
3,750 

6,259 

5,497 

762 

2023 
£’000 

2022
£’000

– –

83 

83 

83 

– 

250

250

182

68

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

23

Financial assets and liabilities (continued)

Bank loans due within one to two years 
Bank loans due within two to five years 
Bank loans due after five years 

 Group                                         Company

2023 
£’000  

2022 
£’000 

2023 
£’000 

2022
£’000

36 
108 
525 

669 

166 
99 
497 

762 

– 
– –
– –

– 

68

68

Bank loans, overdrafts and short-term borrowings of £3,746,000 (2022: £6,259,000) are secured on certain assets of the Group. 
The debt is secured over land and buildings, inventory and trade receivables. Their carrying values can be seen in notes 14, 17 
and 18 respectively.

At 31 May 2023 the Group had £19,362,000 (2022: £25,460,000) 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 SONIA rates plus margins of between 1.5% – 2.75%.

The Group have £10,600,000 (2022: £11,500,000) of bond and guarantee facilities to support ongoing contract trading activity. 
As at the 31 May 2023, £3,761,000 is utilised (2022: £2,185,000).

24

Lease liabilities 

Lease liabilities are presented in the statement of financial position as follows:

Current 
Non-current 

At 31 May 
2023 
£’000 

At 31 May
2022
£’000

1,503 
3,328 

4,831 

1,605
3,097

4,702

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).

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.

75

   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

24

Lease liabilities (continued)

The lease liabilities are secured by the related underlying assets. Future minimum lease payments were as follows:

Within 
1 year 
£’000 

1,692 
(194) 

1,498 

1,747 
(142) 

1,605 

1-2 years 
£’000 

2-3 years 
£’000 

3-4 years 
£’000 

4-5 years 
£’000 

1,414 
(136) 

1,278 

1,099 
(94) 

1,005 

1,066 
(84) 

982 

1,002 
(62) 

940 

666 
(42) 

624 

845 
(31) 

814 

382 
(13) 

369 

202 
(12) 

190 

Over 
5 years 
£’000 

83 
(3) 

80 

157 
(9) 

148 

Total
£’000

5,303
(472)

4,831

5,052
(350)

4,702

31 May 2023 
Lease payments 
Finance charges 

Net present value 

31 May 2022 
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 

2023 
£’000 

 134 
22 

156 

2022
£’000

 160  
 44 

 204  

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 £0.7m at 31 May 
2023 (31 May 2022: £2.5m).

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. 15% (2022: 2%) of the Group’s lease liabilities are subject to inflation-linked rentals and a further 10% (2022: 
12%) are subject to rent reviews. Rental changes linked to inflation or rent reviews typically occur on a three or 5 year basis.

The Group has not signed any leases in the year which have not yet commenced.

See note 32 for further details re the lease liability movements in the year.

76

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

25

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 23. 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 23 and 24 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 cash 

Equity 

Net cash to equity ratio 

   Group                                         Company

2023 
£’000  

(8,577) 
17,717 

2022 
£’000 

(10,961) 
24,287 

9,140 

13,326 

108,455 

105,817 

8.4% 

12.6% 

2023 
£’000 

(83) 
6,404 

6,321 

73,816 

8.6% 

2022
£’000

(250)
14,761

14,511

75,029

19.3%

Debt is defined as short and long term borrowings and lease liabilities, as detailed in note 23. 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 

USD 
£’000 

12,144 
(2,885) 
(73) 
(2,682) 

31 May 2023 

EUR 
£’000 

192 
– 
– 
– 

RMB 
£’000 

6,723 
– 
– 
(272) 

USD 
£’000 

10,085 
(2,508) 
(120)  
(2,318)  

31 May 2022

EUR 
£’000 

434 
– 
– 
– 

RMB
£’000

7,948
–
–
–

Trade and other creditors 

(15,362) 

(155) 

(2,717) 

(12,118)  

(187)  

(125) 

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 £1.1 million (2022: £2.0 
million) in order to manage the transactional currency exposure on certain contracts outstanding as at 31 May 2023. 

The foreign exchange loss in the year shown in the Statement of Comprehensive Income is mainly due to the strengthening of 
the UK Pound from the prior year.

77

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

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 
2022 
£’000 

2023 
£’000 

US $ currency impact 
2022 
£’000 

2023 
£’000 

RmB currency impact
2022
£’000

2023 
£’000 

(4) 

(27) 

358 

226 

(445) 

(869)

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 
£56,000. 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% (2022: 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.

78

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

25

Financial instruments (continued)

Ageing of trade receivables and expected credit loss provision:

31 May 2023 
Trade receivables, gross 
Expected credit loss provision 

31 May 2022 
Trade receivables, gross 
Expected credit loss provision 

Trade receivables aged from invoice date

0-30 
£’000 

14,116 
(39) 

14,077 

11,976 
(44) 

11,932 

31-60 
£’000 

3,461 
(3) 

3,458 

1,793 
(3) 

1,790 

61-120 
£’000 

121-360 
£’000 

1,598 
(6) 

1,592 

1,478 
(8) 

1,470 

1,465 
(35) 

1,430 

2,169 
(6) 

2,163 

>360 
£’000 

1,341 
(177) 

1,164 

558 
(89) 

469 

Total
£’000

21,981
(260)

21,721

17,974
(150)

17,824

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 46 days (2022: 27 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  35)  this  is  supported  by  the  JTC’s 
shareholding as disclosed on page 23. The Company regularly reviews this in comparison with the current share price for any 
credit risk. The amounts owed by group undertakings (note 18) 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 regard 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  23  Financial  assets  and  liabilities  and  note  24  Lease 
liabilities.

All facilities are secured on the assets of the Group.

79

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

26

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 

At 1 June 2021 
Arising on fair value adjustments on  
business combinations 
Charge/(credit) to income – continuing operations 
Charge to other comprehensive income 
Foreign exchange differences 

701 

2,698 

11 
98 
– 
– 

42 
(127) 
– 
– 

57 

– 
891 
24 
70 

Tax losses 
£’000 

(1,767) 

– 
223 
– 
– 

At 1 June 2022 
Arising on fair value adjustments on  
business combinations 
(Credit)/charge to income  
Credit to other comprehensive income 
Foreign exchange differences 

810 

2,613 

1,042 

(1,544) 

40 
(49) 
– 
– 

– 
(254) 
– 
– 

– 
(585) 
(347) 
(32) 

– 
878 
– 
– 

Total
£’000

1,689

53
1,085
24
70

2,921

40
(10)
(347)
(32)

At 31 May 2023 

801 

2,359 

78 

(666) 

2,572

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 

2023 
£’000 

666 
(3,238) 

(2,572) 

2022
£’000

1,544
(4,465)

(2,921)

At the balance sheet date the Group has unused tax losses of £20.6 million (2022: £26.8 million) available for offset against 
future profits. A deferred tax asset has been recognised in respect of £2.3 million (2022: £6.3 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 £163k 
(2022: £182k) 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 (2022: £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.

The following are the major deferred tax liabilities and assets recognised by the Company and movements thereon during the 
current and prior reporting period.

At 1 June 2022 
(Credit) to income statement 

At 31 May 2023 

80

Tax losses 
£’000 

– 
(404) 

(404) 

Total
£’000

–
(404)

(404)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

26

Deferred tax (continued)

At the balance sheet date the Company has unused tax losses of £2.2 million (2022: £0.6 million) available for offset against future 
profits within group undertakings. A deferred tax asset has been recognised in respect of £0.4 million (2022: nil) 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 Company’s forecast of future operating results and 
the future projected profitability of entities within the Group. 

27

Share capital

                                                                                                                                          2023                                            2022

Allotted, issued and fully paid 
Ordinary shares of 5p each 

No. 

£’000 

No. 

32,250,445 

1,612 

32,141,445 

Reconciliation of movement in allotted, issued and fully paid share capital

At 1 June 2022 and 31 May 2022 
Shares issued on exercise of share options (note 28) 

At 31 May 2023 

No. 

32,141,445 
109,000 

32,250,445 

£’000

1,607

£’000

1,607
5

1,612

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 424,000 options were exercised, 215,000 and 209,000 at 220.0p and 267.0p 
respectively. The market price on the day of exercise was between 407.0p and 440.0p. Further details of the scheme are given 
in note 28.

The market price of the Company’s shares at the end of the year was 410.0p (2022: 450.0p). The highest and lowest market prices 
during the year were 470.0p and 352.0p (2022: 482.5p and 350.0p respectively).

28

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 

2023 

2022

Weighted 
Average 
Exercise 
price p 

274.90 
– 
410.00 
(243.17) 

307.34 

215.92 

Options 
(No. ‘000) 

2,609.0 
(27.6) 
560.0 
(474.9) 

2,666.5 

972.5 

Weighted
Average
Exercise
price p

234.51
282.94
402.50
203.01

274.90

198.28

Options 
(No. ‘000) 

2,666.5 
– 
577.5 
(424.0) 

2,820.0 

1,110.5 

The options outstanding at 31 May 2023 had exercise prices in the range 109.0p to 410.0p and a weighted average remaining 
contractual life of 7.0 years (2022: 7.2 years). The average market share price of options at date of exercise was 431.52p (2022: 
427.06p).

Of the 424,000 options exercised in the period 109,000 resulted in the issue of new shares, the balance relates to options under 
the Exsop scheme which are issued on inception (see Note 35).

81

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

28

Share-based payments (Continued)

The terms of these options are as follows:    

Date of grant  

Options 
outstanding at 
31 May 2023 

9/12/2014 

8,000 

Vesting 
period 

3 years 

21/12/2016 

749,500 

3 years 

17/12/2019 

353,000 

3 years 

24/11/2020 

572,000 

3 years 

29/11/2021 

560,000 

3 years 

26/01/2023 

577,500 

3 years 

Market value at
date of grant 
 (p) 

Exercise 
price (p) 

Exercise period

109.00 

193.00 

267.00 

288.00 

402.50 

410.00 

109.00 

193.00 

267.00 

288.00 

402.50 

410.00 

10/12/2017 to 
9/12/2024

22/12/2019 to 
21/12/2026

17/12/2022 to 
16/12/2029

24/11/2023 to 
23/11/2030

29/11/2024 to 
28/11/2031

26/01/2026 to 
25/01/2033

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, Pett, 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 

2023 
£’000 

237 

2022
£’000

188

There are no share-based payment transactions that were expensed immediately. A deferred tax credit of £nil (2022: £nil) was 
recognised during the year in respect of share-based payments.

82

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

29

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”), 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 which is currently underway. 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 
no contributions in the year to 31 May 2024.

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 £0.5 million 
(2022: £1.7 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.

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 (2022: 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.

83

 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

29

Pensions and other employee obligations (continued)

Profile of defined benefit obligation

The weighted average duration of the defined benefit obligation is 10 years.

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 assets

The fair value of assets for the reporting years under review are as follows:

Fair value of assets at start of year 
Interest on assets 
Company contributions 
Benefits paid 
Return on assets less interest 

Fair value of assets at end of year 

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 loss on liabilities   
Benefits paid 

Defined benefits obligation at end of year 

84

Group

At 31 May 
2023 
£’000 

At 31 May 
2022
£’000

(8,385) 
8,911 

(10,548)
12,236

526 

1,688

Group

At 31 May 
2023 
£’000 

At 31 May 
2022
£’000

350 
(412) 

(62) 

249
(277)

(28)

Group

At 31 May 
2023 
£’000 

At 31 May 
2022
£’000

14,400 
12,236 
164 
(788) 
(3,113) 

8,911 

15,177
14,400
282
(720)
(2,003)

12,236

Group

At 31 May 
2023 
£’000 

At 31 May 
2022
£’000

10,548 
350 
– 
(2,022) 
297 
(788) 

8,385 

13,116
249
(59)
(2,038)
–
(720)

10,548

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

29

Pensions and other employee obligations (continued)

For determination of the pension obligation, the following actuarial assumptions were used:

Discount rate 
Expected rate of pension increases 
Inflation assumption 
Mortality assumption 

Group

At 31 May 
2023 
£’000 

At 31 May 
2022
£’000

5.35% 
2.70% 
3.25% 
S3PFA CMI 

   3.45%
3.10%
3.50%
S3PFA CMI

S3PFA CMI – for males and females projected on a year of birth basis using CMI (2021) 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
19.6
25.1
 23.6

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 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 on scheme assets in excess of interest 
(Gain)/loss from changes to demographic assumptions 
Experience losses on liabilities 
(Gains)/loss from changes to financial assumptions 

Total loss/(gain) recognised in other comprehensive income 

Group

At 31 May 
2023 
£’000 

At 31 May 
2022
£’000

4,303 
4,423 
185 

8,911 

5,953
5,809
474

12,236

Group

At 31 May 
2023 
£’000 

At 31 May 
2022
£’000

3,113 
– 
297 
(2,022) 

1,388 

2,003
(59)
–
(2,039)

(95)

85

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

29

Pensions and other employee obligations (continued)

Sensitivity of the value placed on the liabilities

Reduce discount rate by 0.5% p.a. 
Increase inflation and related assumption by 0.5% 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) 

Approximate
effect on
liabilities

£407,000
£231,000
£38,000
£343,000

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.

30

Notes to the consolidated cash flow statement

Cash flows from operating activities:

Continuing operations
Profit 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 
Loss on disposal of intangible assets 
Finance income 
Finance expenses 
Share based payment charge 

Changes in working capital 
Increase in inventories 
Increase in trade and other receivables 
Increase in trade and other payables 
(Decrease)/increase in provisions 
Other non cash changes 

Cash flows from operating activities 

Cash and cash equivalents 
Cash  
Overdrafts 

86

2023 
£’000 

7,475 
(616) 

3,720 
444 
993 
– 
373 –
(109) 
609 
237 

(729) 
(3,628) 
2,814 
(857) 
(44) 

10,682 

2023 
£’000 

17,717 
(331) 

17,386 

2022 
£’000

6,975
57

3,675
374
869
44

(176)
393
188

(1,033)
(7,837)
783
32
(171)

4,173

2022 
£’000

24,287
(385)

23,902

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

31

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 

32

Reconciliation of liabilities arising from finance activities

2023 
£’000 

2022   
£’000

(590) 

(1,241)

(487) 
6 
137 
– –

(199) 
3 
1 

(238)
6
100

(415)
6
1

(1,129) 

(1,781)

Group 

At 1 June 2021 
Cash flows: 
Repayments 
New borrowings 
Non-cash: 
New leases 
Amortisation of finance fees 
Exchange adjustments 
Reclassification 

At 31 May 2022 

At 1 June 2022 
Cash flows: 
Repayments 
New borrowings 
Non-cash: 
New leases 
Amortisation of finance fees 
Exchange adjustments 
Reclassification 

At 31 May 2023 

Long-term 
borrowings  
£’000 

Short-term 
borrowings 
£’000 

Lease
liabilities 
£’000 

Overdraft 
£’000 

3,368 

1,818 

4,275 

342 

– 
– 

(476) 
953 

(1,486) 
– 

– 
– 
– 
(2,606) 

762 

762 

– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
(93) 

– 
9 
202 
2,606 

5,112 

5,112 

1,540 
– 
373 
– 

4,702 

4,702 

(2,845) 
357 

(1,771) 
1,898 

– 
2 
28 
93 

– 
– 
1 
– 

– 
– 

– 
– 
43 
– 

385 

385 

(62) 
– 

– 
– 
8 
– 

Total
£’000

9,803

(1,962)
953

1,540
9
618
–

10,961

10,961 

(4,678)
2,255

–
2
37
–  

 669  

2,747 

4,830 

331 

8,577 

87

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

32

Reconciliation of liabilities arising from finance activities (continued)

Company 

At 1 June 2021 
Cash flows: 
Repayments 
Non-cash: 
Amortisation of finance fees 
Reclassification 

At 1 June 2022 
Cash flows: 
Repayments 
Non-cash: 
Amortisation of finance fees 
Reclassification 

At 31 May 2023 

33

Related party transactions

Long-term 
borrowings  
£’000 

Short-term 
borrowings 
£’000 

Lease
liabilities 
£’000 

Overdraft 
£’000 

Total
£’000

249 

– 

– 
(181) 

68 

(68) 

– 
– 

– 

181 

(181) 

1 
181 

182 

(98) 

(1) 
– 

83 

– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

430

(181)

1
–

250

(166)

(1)
–

83

Company
The Directors benefited from dividends paid in the year (note 10) on their shareholdings as set out in the Directors report page 23.

Transactions with Magnetica Ltd its subsidiaries were as follows:

Recharges to Magnetica and Subsidiaries  

Recharges from 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 
2023 
£’000 

Company
2023
£’000

122 

– 

– 

21 

122 

–

–

21

During the year 152,000,000 shares in Magnetica Ltd were acquired by Avingtrans plc for £4,296,471 resulting in Avingtrans 
holding increasing to 71.7% (2022: 61.3%).

34

Financial commitments

Capital commitments
Commitments for capital expenditure were as follows:

Contracted for, but not provided in the accounts 

88

2022
£’000

2023 
£’000 

128 –

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

35

Investment in own shares

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 28 is achieved the option can be exercised by the beneficiaries   

During the year Nil (2022: Nil) shares were purchased at a cost of £Nil (2022: Nil) by the Trust and beneficiaries, an interest 
in which was allocated to the Executive Directors as beneficiaries (note 28). 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 (2022: £4,235,000) 
and shown as a deduction from equity in the statement of changes in shareholders’ equity.

36

Acquisitions and disposals

Disposal of Metalcraft (Chengdu) Limited and Metalcraft (Sichuan) Limited

On 31 May 2023, the Group disposed of 100% of its shares in Metalcraft (Chengdu) Limited and Metalcraft (Sichuan) Limited. 
Consideration was received in full during the year.

At the disposal date the carrying amount of net assets held in the business was as follows:

Inventories 
Trade and other debtors 
Cash 
Trade and other creditors 

Total net assets 

Consideration comprises: 
Cash consideration 
Forgiveness of amounts owed by the disposal group 

Total consideration 

Loss on disposal 

Cash consideration 
Cash disposed of 

Net cash inflow on disposal 

£’000

347 
331 
147 
(287)

538

1,024
(988)

36

502

1,024
(147)

877

The loss on disposal is included in the loss for the year from discontinued operations in the consolidated income statement.

Revenue 
Other expenses 

(Loss)/profit before income tax 
Tax expense 

(Loss)/profit after income tax of discontinued operation 
Loss on disposal of net asset of discontinued operations 

(Loss)/profit for the year from discontinued operations 

2023 
£’000 

508 
(1,174) 

(666) 
– 

(666) 
(502) –

(1,168) 

2022
£’000

1,330
(1,273)

57
–

57

57

89

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

36

Acquisitions and disposals (continued)

Acquisition of HEVAC and HES

On 30 December 2022, the Group acquired the trade and assets of HEVAC Limited (“HEVAC”) a heating ventilation and air 
conditioning solutions provider based in Elland, Yorkshire and the business and assets of HeatExchangeSpares.com (“HES”) 
a plates and gaskets supplier, based in Watford. The acquisitions will complement the Group’s Ormandy Rycroft Engineering 
business and expand its product range.

The details of the business combination are as follows:

Goodwill 
Other intangible assets 
Property, plant and equipment 
Inventories 
Trade and other receivables 

Total assets 

Trade and other payables 
Deferred tax liability 
Provisions 

Total liabilities 

Net assets 

Cash consideration 

Net cash outflow from acquisition 

£’000 
188 
162 
28 
955 
2 

1,335 

(42) 
(41) 
(400) 

(483) 

852 

852

852 

Consideration was paid in full during the financial year.

Goodwill of £188,000 is primarily the skills and expertise of HEVAC and HES’s workforce. Goodwill has been allocated to our 
PSRE division cash generating unit.

HEVAC and HES contribution to the Group results, post-acquisition are:

Revenue 
Expenses 

Profit before exceptional expenses and tax 

Exceptional and moving expenses 

Loss before tax 

Tax credit 

Loss after tax 

£’000
2,862
(2,780)

82

(218)

(136)

22

(114)

Exceptional expenses comprise £14,000 relating to the acquisition of HEVAC and HES, and £204,000 associated with moving 
the operations to Group premises in Bradford.

We do not have access to the accounting records prior to the acquisition so are unable to present the contribution the acquisition 
to the Group were it to have been acquired at the start of the financial year.

90

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

37

Non-controlling interest (NCI) 

During the year the Group increased its shareholding in Magnetica to 71.7% (2022: 61.3%) of the issued shares of Magnetica 
Limited. For further details on the increase in investment, see note 15.

Summarised statement of financial position: 

Current assets 
Current liabilities 

Current net liabilities 

Non-current assets 
Non-current liabilities 

Non-current net assets 

Net assets 

Accumulated NCI 

Summarised statement of comprehensive income:

Revenue 

Loss for the period 
Other comprehensive income 

Total comprehensive loss 

Losses absorbed by 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/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 

2023 
£’000 

2,544 
(3,410) 

2022
£’000

2,859
(4,020)

(866) 

(1,161)

10,092 
(709) 

9,383 

8,517 

2,413 

2023 
£’000 

4,809 

(465) 
– 

(465) 

(132) 

– –

2023 
£’000 

418 
(4,745) 
4,490 

163 

6,599
(281)

6,318

5,157

2,000

2022
£’000

845

(1,075)
–

(1,075)

(417) 

2022
£’000

(138)
(1,971)
1,597

(512)

91

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Annual Report (Continued)

For the year ended 31 May 2023

38

Post balance sheet events (PBSE)

Acquisition of Slack & Parr

On 4th August 2023, the Group acquired the trade and assets of Slack & Parr from Slack & Parr Limited. As at this date control over 
the business and its subsidiaries has been obtained. 

Slack & Parr is a manufacturer of specialist pumps and a market leading supplier of high-precision gear metering pumps, hydraulics 
flow dividers and industrial pumps. 

The  Group  believes  it  can  utilise  its  experience  in  business  turnaround  as  well  as  its  specialist  pump  knowledge  to  improve 
operational capabilities and drive higher margin on its revenue contracts.

£2,600,000 cash consideration has been agreed, of which £300,000 is contingent upon the audited financial statements of overseas 
subsidiaries. All consideration will be settled in the next financial year.

In addition to the consideration, the Group has agreed to adopt the lease arrangements for the business including a lease on their 
manufacturing facility and hire purchase agreements on machinery and vehicles. 

Overseas subsidiaries acquired:

Name 

Country of registration 

Ownership

Slack & Parr (International) Inc 

S&P Inc 

S&P Hydraulics Inc 

S&P Special Products Corp 

Slack & Parr Shanghai (Joint Venture) 

Slack & Parr Shanghai Manufacturing 

Acquisition of Adaptix

USA 

USA 

USA 

USA 

China 

China 

100%

100%

100%

100%

50%

100%

On 15 September 2023, the acquired the remaining 82.0% of the shares in Adaptix Limited (“Adaptix”), bringing its ownership and 
voting rights to 100%, thereby obtaining control. 

Adaptix is an Oxford based emerging MedTech Company, specialising in low-dose 3D portable x-ray imaging. 

The Group believes that the potential acquisition will give us a market leading position in novel medical imaging products, as 
applied to several markets including veterinary and orthopaedic imaging at the point of care.

Consideration  is  in  the  form  of  newly  issued  shares  in Avingtrans  plc,  which  at  the  time  of  acquisition  had  a  market  value  of 
£2,700,000.

In addition to the consideration, the Group has adopted an estimated £2,100,000 of loan liabilities and repaid £3,300,000 of debt. 

92

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 16 November 2023 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 14 November 2023.

To consider, and if thought fit, to pass the following resolutions numbered 1 to 5 as ordinary resolutions

1.  To receive and adopt the reports of the Directors and the auditor and the financial statements for the year ended 31 May 2023.

2.  To declare a final dividend of 2.8p per ordinary share payable on 8 December 2023 payable to shareholders on the register of 

members on 27 October 2023.

3.  To re-elect Steve McQuillan as a Director.

4.  To re-elect John Clarke as a Director.

5.  To reappoint Cooper Parry Group Limited 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 £542,731 
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 3,289,280;

b. 

c. 

d. 

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 

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 £164,464 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. 

By order of the Board

S M King 

Dated 
26 September 2023 

Registered office
Chatteris Business Park 
Chatteris 
Cambridgeshire 
PE16 6SA

93

 
 
 
Notice of Annual General Meeting (Continued)

Avingtrans Plc

Notes to the Annual Report for the year ended 31 May 2023:

Entitlement to attend and vote

1.  Only those members registered on the Company’s register of members at close of business on 14 November 2023; 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 Group, by emailing shareholderenquiries@
linkgroup.co.uk, or calling on Tel: +44 (0) 371 664 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.

if you are an institutional investor you may also be able to appoint a proxy electronically via the Proxymity platform, 
a  process  which  has  been  agreed  by  the  Company  and  approved  by  the  Registrar.  For  further  information  regarding 
Proxymity, please go to www.proxymity.io, and refer to notes 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 Group); or 

submitting (if you are a CREST member) a proxy appointment electronically by using the CREST voting service. 

appointing a proxy electronically via the Proxymity platform. 

Please note that proxy appointments must be received by no later than 11:00 a.m. on 14 November 2023 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, 29 Wellington Street, Leeds, LS1 4DL; and received no later than 11:00am on 14 November 2023.

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.

94

 
 
Notice of Annual General Meeting (Continued)

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).

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, 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, 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, 29 Wellington Street, Leeds, LS1 
4DL. no later than 14 November 2023 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). 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  &  International  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 14 November 2023. 
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 
& International 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

Proxymity Voting 

15. If you are an institutional investor you may also be able to appoint a proxy electronically via the Proxymity platform, a 
process which has been agreed by the Company and approved by the Registrar. For further information regarding Proxymity, 
please go to www.proxymity.io. Your proxy must be lodged by 11:00 am on 14 November 2023 in order to be considered 
valid or, if the meeting is adjourned, by the time which is 48 hours before the time of the adjourned meeting. Before you can 
appoint a proxy via this process you will need to have agreed to Proxymity’s associated terms and conditions. It is important 
that you read these carefully as you will be bound by them and they will govern the electronic appointment of your proxy. An 
electronic proxy appointment via the Proxymity platform may be revoked completely by sending an authenticated message 
via the platform instructing the removal of your proxy vote. 

95

 
 
Notice of Annual General Meeting (Continued)

Issued shares and total voting rights

16. As at 11:00 am on 26 September 2023, the Company’s issued share capital comprised 32,892,800 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 26 September 2023 is 32,892,800

Documents on display

17. The following documents will be available for inspection at Chatteris Business Park, Chatteris, Cambridgeshire PE16 6SA 
from 27 October 2023 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.

Notes

96

The Strategy 
in action
Pinpoint-Invest-Exit

Pinpoint
Strengthening the portfolio

Acquisition of HRS and Hevac
During the year, the Group acquired the trade and 
assets of HEVAC Limited and HeatExchangeSpares.com 
(“HES”) for cash consideration of £0.9m. HEVAC and HES 
are a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning solutions 
provider based in Elland, Yorkshire.

Subsequent to the acquisition, HEVAC and HES have 
been merged with the Group’s Ormandy Rycroft 
Engineering business based in Bradford, Yorkshire.  
The merger strengthens and expands our product 
range and customer base, enabling us to offer a  
higher quality, more rounded market proposition.

Acquisition of Adaptix
During the year, the Group invested £4.0m into Adaptix  
in the form of a convertible loan and the purchase of 
shares. Post-year end the Group acquired all remaining 
shares in Adaptix in exchange for £2.7m of Avingtrans 
shares and has agreed to adopt debt facilities of £2.1m  
plus repay £3.3m of renegotiated creditors.  

Adaptix is revolutionizing radiology with its patent-
protected technology, introducing a Flat Panel X-ray Source 
(FPS) with individually addressable emitters and integrated 
power supply (“monoblock”). This innovation digitizes the 
imaging source, enabling fast 3D imaging at a lower dose 
than CT scans. The FPS seamlessly integrates with existing 
detectors and workstations, offering cost-effectiveness  
akin to current 2D systems, but with higher image quality. 

Acquisition of Slack & Parr
Post-year end the Group completed the acquisition  
of Slack & Parr for a total consideration of up to £4.9m.

Slack & Parr is a manufacturer of specialist pumps and  
a market leading supplier of high-precision gear metering 
pumps, hydraulics flow dividers and industrial pumps  
to customers around the world. 

Founded in 1917, it has a strong track record in supporting 
global blue-chip OEMs and end users, with a large 
installed base, supported by service facilities in the USA 
and Asia. Slack & Parr operates from a 64,000 sq ft 
state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Kegworth, 
Derbyshire and it also has facilities in Charlotte, North 
Carolina and Shanghai, China. 

0015914_Avingtrans_Report_2023_v3.indd   5

0015914_Avingtrans_Report_2023_v3.indd   5

04/10/2023   10:46

04/10/2023   10:46

Invest
Technology

Since the acquisition of Magnetica in 2021, the Group has invested over £8.0m in the development 
of a compact Magnetic Resonance Imaging (“MRI”) system. Development has proceeded to plan, 
with the product launch and FDA approval expected in FY24.

Operating at a gold standard 3 Tesla magnetic field strength, 
our dry magnet system eliminates the need for liquid 
helium, ensuring hassle-free operation. With its powerful 
gradient coils and optimized multi-channel RF coils, our  
MRI system is purpose-built for dedicated musculoskeletal 
extremity imaging.

Our patented asymmetric magnet technology, coupled  
with compact superconducting magnets, is the driving  
force behind our innovative system. This system geometry 
reduces the need for patients to position their limbs  
deep inside the MRI, making the process more comfortable 
and accessible.

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).

Disposal of Metalcraft China

During the period, we also exited from Metalcraft 
China, selling the business for £1.0m to a local 
manufacturer. After our interest in MRI component 
manufacture ended as planned, there was no viable 
strategic reason to keep this business unit in China.

However, we were pleased to find a good home for it, 
to ensure that all our employees there continued to 
enjoy gainful employment.

  Performance

5 YEAR PERFORMANCE

Revenue

 83.5 

 90.0 

96.2

 99.1 

116.4 

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

 105.8 

108.5 

 99.0 

 69.3 

 69.9

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

12.4

12.4

13.7

7.1

5.9

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

23.0

21.6

23.4

8.2

8.9

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

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

140

120

100

80

60

40

20

0

120

100

80

60

40

20

0

16

14

12

10

8

6

4

2

0

25

20

15

10

5

0

25

20

Net Assets

EBITDA

(continuing)

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.”

0015914_Avingtrans_Report_2023_v3.indd   6

0015914_Avingtrans_Report_2023_v3.indd   6

04/10/2023   10:46

04/10/2023   10:46

0015914_Avingtrans_Report_2023_v3.indd   7

0015914_Avingtrans_Report_2023_v3.indd   7

04/10/2023   10:46

04/10/2023   10:46

 
 
 
 
Since the acquisition of Magnetica in 2021, the Group has invested over £8.0m in the development 

of a compact Magnetic Resonance Imaging (“MRI”) system. Development has proceeded to plan, 

Invest

Technology

with the product launch and FDA approval expected in FY24.

Operating at a gold standard 3 Tesla magnetic field strength, 

our dry magnet system eliminates the need for liquid 

helium, ensuring hassle-free operation. With its powerful 

gradient coils and optimized multi-channel RF coils, our  

MRI system is purpose-built for dedicated musculoskeletal 

extremity imaging.

Our patented asymmetric magnet technology, coupled  

with compact superconducting magnets, is the driving  

force behind our innovative system. This system geometry 

reduces the need for patients to position their limbs  

deep inside the MRI, making the process more comfortable 

and accessible.

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).

Disposal of Metalcraft China

During the period, we also exited from Metalcraft 

China, selling the business for £1.0m to a local 

manufacturer. After our interest in MRI component 

manufacture ended as planned, there was no viable 

strategic reason to keep this business unit in China.

However, we were pleased to find a good home for it, 

to ensure that all our employees there continued to 

enjoy gainful employment.

  Performance

5 YEAR PERFORMANCE

Revenue

 83.5 

 90.0 

96.2

 99.1 

116.4 

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

 105.8 

108.5 

 99.0 

 69.3 

 69.9

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

12.4

12.4

13.7

7.1

5.9

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

23.0

21.6

23.4

8.2

8.9

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

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

140

120

100

80

60

40

20

0

120

100

80

60

40

20

0

16

14

12

10

8

6

4

2

0

25

20

15

10

5

0

25

20

Net Assets

EBITDA
(continuing)

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.”

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04/10/2023   10:46

 
 
 
 
www.avingtrans.plc.uk

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