China plc Annual Report 2014 Over 200 years of... INNOVATION, PASSION & EXPERTISE Within the hospitality sector, the choice of tableware must meet the highest standards for presentation, practicality and performance. Over 200 years of innovation, passion and expertise make Churchill the natural partner for providing tabletop solutions. The Churchill brand has achieved global recognition and is a reputable supplier of the highest quality ceramics. Respected for service excellence, product quality, environmental responsibilities and product innovation... Orb Company Profile Churchill China plc is a manufacturer and distributor of high performance tabletop products to the Hospitality and Retail sectors worldwide. Our principal business services the growing Hospitality market worldwide, providing high performance tableware and other products to a number of sectors. Our customers include pub, restaurant and hotel chains, sports and conference venues, health and education establishments and contract caterers. We are the market leader in hospitality tableware in the UK and have significant and growing positions in many export markets. We also manufacture and source product sold through Retail customers for consumer use in the home, again in many markets across the world. At the heart of our business are our UK based design, technical and production operations. Contents Company Profile Five Year Performance Financial Highlights Directors, Secretary and Advisers We offer a high level of service, design and Chairman’s Statement manufacture of an engineered, performance Strategic Report product. Our steady investment in new product Directors’ Report development produces a leading edge range meeting exacting customer requirements. We maintain our manufacturing and technical excellence through a consistent programme of investment in improved capability, process development and new manufacturing technology. We maintain a strong ungeared, balance sheet. We aim to improve performance steadily on a long term basis and to generate cash each year to re-invest within our business and to provide an attractive return to shareholders. Remuneration Report Corporate Governance Independent Auditors’ Report Consolidated Income Statement Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income Consolidated Balance Sheet Company Balance Sheet Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity Consolidated Cash Flow Statement Reconciliation of Operating Profit to Net Cash Inflow from Operating Activities Notes to the Financial Statements Five Year Financial Record Notice of Annual General Meeting Vintage Prints 01 02 04 05 06 16 21 26 36 38 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 78 79 01 Five Year Performance Group Revenue (£m) Segment Revenue (£m) Operating Profit (£’000) 10 11 12 13 14 0 10 11 12 13 14 0 10 11 12 13 14 43.7 42.3 41.4 43.2 44.5 10 20 30 40 50 Group revenues up 3% to £44.5m 27.4 16.3 09 29.2 13.1 29.4 12.0 32.8 10.4 36.0 8.5 Strong growth in Hospitality revenues, up 10% • Driven by UK and European investment and market growth • Hospitality revenues represent 81% of overall Group revenues • Dark Blue (Left) - Hospitality • Light Blue (Right) - Retail 10 20 30 40 50 2,287 2,713 2,830 3,371 4,249 Operating Profit up 26% to £4.2m • Successful new product introductions • Increased sales of value added product • Improved factory efficiency 0 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500 3,000 3,500 4,000 4,500 Operating Margin (%) 10 5.2% 6.4% 6.8% 11 12 13 14 7.8% 9.5% Operating margin increased to 9.5% 02 0% 5% 6% 7% 8% 9% 10% Pre Tax Profit (£’000) Group revenues up 3% to £44.5m 10 11 12 13 14 2,031 2,438 2,717 Pre tax profit up 28% to £4.3m 3,370 4,317 0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 Strong growth in Hospitality revenues, up 10% • Driven by UK and European investment and market growth • Hospitality revenues represent 81% of overall Group revenues • Dark Blue (Left) - Hospitality • Light Blue (Right) - Retail Operating Profit up 26% to £4.2m • Successful new product introductions • Increased sales of value added product • Improved factory efficiency Capital Expenditure (£’000) 10 11 12 13 14 1,586 1,274 1,275 1,499 1,989 Capital expenditure of £2.0m principally in new manufacturing facilities Other Highlights 0 1,000 2,000 3,000 Net cash and deposit balances £10.5m Earnings per Share up 24% Dividends declared up 10% Total shareholder return 42% Operating margin increased to 9.5% Wooden Crates 03 Financial Highlights for the year ended 31 December 2014 Results Revenue Operating profit Share of results of associate company Net finance cost Profit before income tax Dividends paid Key Ratios Operating margin Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (£000) Basic earnings per share Diluted basic earnings per share Dividends paid per share 2014 2013 £’000 £’000 44,518 43,157 4,249 116 (48) 3,371 116 (117) 4,317 3,370 1,619 1,564 9.5% 5,876 31.2p 30.8p 14.8p 7.8% 4,967 25.2p 24.9p 14.3p 04 Moresque Prints Menu Moonstone Directors, Secretary and Advisers Stonecast BANKERS Lloyds Bank plc 8th Floor 40 Spring Gardens Manchester M2 1EN REGISTRARS Equiniti Aspect House Spencer Road Lancing West Sussex BN99 6ZX EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS D M O’Connor D J S Taylor NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS A J McWalter (Chairman) A D Roper J W Morgan B M Hynes COMPANY SECRETARY AND REGISTERED OFFICE D J S Taylor ACA No 1 Marlborough Way Tunstall Stoke-on-Trent Staffordshire ST6 5NZ INDEPENDENT AUDITORS PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditors Cornwall Court 19 Cornwall Street Birmingham B3 2DT SOLICITORS Addleshaw Goddard 100 Barbirolli Square Manchester M2 3AB STOCKBROKERS AND ADVISERS N+1 Singer Advisory LLP West One Wellington Street Leeds LS1 1BA * Member of audit committee • Member of remuneration committee Registered no: 02709505 05 Chairman’s Statement “It is a pleasure to again report strong progress in Churchill’s performance” INTRODUCTION It is a pleasure to again report strong progress in Churchill’s performance. We have recorded a further substantial increase in profitability and it is satisfying that this has arisen in large part from the areas that we have identified for long term investment. We have reached significant milestones on the road to several of our strategic goals and are generating a return from our work to further align our business with customer and market needs. The Hospitality business again reported record revenues building on its strong position in growing markets. 06 Orb “Churchill’s core values of performance and delivery” Above: Churchill Super Vitrified Glide Bamboo Orb 07 Chairman’s Statement FINANCIAL REVIEW Total revenues increased by 3% to £44.5m (2013: £43.2m). Operating profit increased by 26% to £4.2m (2013: £3.4m). Operating margins improved to 9.5% (2013: 7.8%) mainly as a result of increased revenues, but with some contribution from a more favourable mix of business. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation increased by 18% to £5.9m (2013: £5.0m). Profit before tax rose by 28% to £4.3m (2013: £3.4m), with the improved operating performance supported by a lower notional interest charge on pension fund liabilities. Earnings per share improved by 24% to 31.2p (2013: 25.2p). We have again generated strong operating cash flows. Operating cash generation was £6.9m (2013: £4.6m) with strong profitability being supplemented by a positive working capital position and lower pension fund amortisation payments. Inventory levels fell during the period largely as a function of strong trading towards the end of the year. At the year end, net cash and deposit balances had risen by £2.3m to £10.5m (2013: £8.2m). We continue to invest in our core business. Capital investment rose to £2.0m (2013: £1.5m) with further investment in the development of our Stoke on Trent manufacturing facility. Dividend and Shareholder Return The Board is recommending a 1.3p increase in the final dividend to 11.0p per share (2013: 9.7p), giving a total of 16.1p for the year (2013: 14.6p). Following the re-establishment of a progressive dividend policy during 2013, we are pleased that the growth in profitability in 2014 has allowed us to raise the dividend at an increased rate. If approved, the final dividend will be paid on 27 May 2015 to shareholders on the register on 24 April 2015. Total shareholder returns have again been good, reflecting both dividend growth and our improved performance. Overall returns were 42% (2013: 35%) during the year. 08 Vintage Prints Buffet Trays Bamboo “Design innovation has been a major contributor to our success” 09 Stonecast Chairman’s Statement “The Hospitality business again reported record revenues” HOSPITALITY Total sales to our Hospitality customers increased by £3.2m (10%) and reached an all time high of £36.0m (2013: £32.8m). Contribution to Group operating profits rose by 29% to £6.6m from £5.1m. We have continued to make steady progress in the UK where we enjoy a market-leading position. Whilst the second half of the year did not benefit from the same level of refurbishment business that we secured in the first half, the market as a whole remained buoyant as eating out continued to grow. Our progress again reflected the exemplary service levels for which Churchill is renowned, especially in the key pre-Christmas period. The focus of our growth plan remains export markets. Export revenues increased by 16% in 2014, marking a second consecutive year of strong increase. We have once again achieved good results in Europe, giving a return on several years of investment into that market. Our competitive position in Europe has also been improved given the continuance of anti dumping duties on Chinese ceramics. It is also pleasing to note that the changes made in our approach to North America and to other markets worldwide appear to be beginning to bear fruit in the form of growing revenues. We believe our long term progress will increasingly be delivered by growth in export markets and we will continue to invest in sales, marketing and new product development to support this. Design innovation has been a major contributor to our success in 2014. Our new embossed range, Bamboo, has figured strongly, and we have been delighted by the outstanding level of sales achieved by our coloured glaze, hand crafted product, Stonecast, in its first year. 10 Igneous Ambience Bamboo “The focus of our growth plan remains export markets” 11 Stonecast Chairman’s Statement “We continue to see good value in the opportunities provided by our Retail business” RETAIL Results from our Retail business were again affected by our decision to prioritise our resources, particularly manufacturing capacity, towards Hospitality. Revenues declined by £1.9m to £8.5m. Profitability was less affected given our focus on better margin business and tight control over costs. Contribution to Group profit fell by £0.3m to £0.9m. Sales of licensed product continued to fall as we switched our focus towards Churchill branded lines. We continue to see good value in the opportunities provided by our Retail business. Whilst the Retail market has remained highly competitive for some time, our business provides a clear financial contribution and many other less tangible benefits. Our operational capacity can be optimised across both our businesses and the transfer of ideas, technology and people between the two businesses continues to be of significant benefit to the Group. The Caravan Trail 12 Sieni “We will continue to invest in our core business” FULFILMENT 2014 represented a year of significant challenge for our manufacturing and logistics team. Demand for UK manufactured product remained at a high level throughout the year and we also increased our rate of capital investment and new process development, both major consumers of management time. The successful outcome for the year reflects Churchill’s core values of performance and delivery. Capital expenditure on manufacturing projects during the year totalled £1.6m, the highest level for some years. The principal project, the installation of a new kiln, was completed on time and was successfully commissioned in January 2015. This kiln provides significant additional capacity, and will allow us to produce a wider range of product to a higher quality level. It is important to note that this kiln is part of an integrated programme of investments to support our long term growth strategy. During the year we also invested in additional pressure cast capacity to meet increased demand for added value products and in the automation of other production processes. We expect to commence further development projects in 2015. 13 Chairman’s Statement “A year of considerable achievement ” PEOPLE Once again I want to thank our staff for their efforts across the year. Whilst I have previously referred to the level of challenge in manufacturing and operations, all our employees across the business have contributed to a year of considerable achievement for the Group. The investment we have made in our business includes a number of measures to increase the knowledge, experience and opportunities available to all our team. We recognise the importance to our current and future prosperity of a more flexible and more skilled workforce and have prioritised training and development at all levels across the Company. As many of you will know, a change of responsibility as Chief Executive took place in August 2014, with David O’Connor, previously Chief Operating Officer, assuming responsibility from Andrew Roper on the latter’s retirement and move to a non executive role. We regard this change as part of an evolutionary process at senior level in the business intended to carry Churchill forward in the long term. 14 Profile “We have the right long term strategies to continue the development of our business ” PROSPECTS We have delivered a strong performance in 2014 and it is pleasing to note that this has been achieved in line with the strategies that we established some years ago. We have delivered progressive improvements in return from our Hospitality business and particularly from export growth. The recent strengthening of sterling against the euro will provide some headwind in relation to our progress in Europe and we are also mindful of the impact of general political and economic pressures across the continent. Despite this we believe that there will be further growth in hospitality markets worldwide and that our long term progress in this area will continue. We are confident that we have the right long term strategies to continue the development of our business and the resource to implement these plans. The current year has started well, and Churchill is well positioned to take advantage of its strong market position. A J McWalter Chairman 25 March 2015 Stonecast 15 Strategic Report for the year ended 31 December 2014 the year ended 31 December 2014. The Directors present A review of the operations of the Group during the year and its future prospects are given in the Chairman’s Statement on page 6 and in the following pages. their Strategic Report the Group for for Principal activity and business environment The Group operates in many different geographic markets serving hospitality and retail customers with a range of tabletop products, principally ceramic tableware. The majority of our revenues are generated from our UK manufacturing plant, supplemented by products sourced from third party suppliers overseas. Whilst our largest exposure is to the UK market, where we generate over 60% of our gross revenue, we also enjoy significant sales to Europe and North America which respectively account for 23% and 8% of our revenues. Hospitality markets are generally recognised as being long term markets linked to economic growth and increased levels of dining out by consumers. Our product is a high quality, engineered product designed to meet exacting design, performance and technical standards within the hospitality industry. It is generally sold to end users through well developed distribution networks with a high service level requirement. A significant proportion of sales each year will be repeat or replacement sales to existing customers. Hospitality markets benefit from barriers to entry given the premium customers place on service, quality and technical performance. Whilst larger in scale than Hospitality markets, Retail markets are normally faster moving and are subject to a higher level of competition. Product life cycles are generally shorter, particularly in more price sensitive sectors of the marketplace. We believe that there has been some growth in our markets during the year, particularly in the UK and European hospitality sectors as the economic environment has improved. Our competitive position has benefitted from the continuation of anti dumping duties imposed on the import of Chinese ceramics to the EU. We have continued our programme of investment in both market development and capacity expansion. Forecasts for the UK and our major export markets suggest that economic growth will continue to improve in 2015, although the benefits of this may be offset by other macro-economic changes, most notably higher levels of sterling. As the majority of our products are used in the consumption of food, we are subject to a wide range of regulatory requirements in relation to our product. It is important to our success that we understand and meet regulation in these areas. As a substantial employer and manufacturer we also need to comply with extensive health and safety requirements. Strategy The Group’s objective is to generate benefits to all stakeholders in the business by the provision of value to customers through excellence in design, quality and service. We aim to increase long term shareholder returns principally through steady increments to sales and margins, but also through active control of our cost base and a focus on cash generation. Our long term aim is to build revenues in markets offering sustainable levels of revenue and profitability and to reduce our exposure to markets where the margin on sales does not adequately cover our costs of operation. At present this leads us towards development of our position in hospitality markets worldwide and by increased focus on particular sectors of the retail market. Our strategic process is designed to allow us to identify markets where we may profitably grow our revenues on a long term basis. We research customer product requirements and the distribution structure in new markets and then invest to generate revenue, margin and ultimately a return for shareholders. We continue to expect short to medium term growth to be weighted towards export markets. The ability to develop and manufacture successful new products and ranges and to bring these to market is an important part of our success. We have invested significant resource in new staff and flexible technology to increase our capability in this area. We also invest steadily in increasing our production capability and in improving our ability to offer added value to our customers. This involves investment in new product development as well as capital expenditure on productive capacity. It is a key strategic aim to design products that meet our end users requirements in terms of performance, shape and surface design. Our target markets require product that is aesthetically appealing whilst also performing to appropriate customer and technical standards. 16 We understand that quality must exist throughout our business process. Quality is reflected not only in the appearance of our product but in its design, its performance in operation and in the systems which support the fulfilment of our contract with our customers. Customer service remains a major part of our strategy and the fulfilment of customer expectations is critical to the maintenance of good relationships. Our production and logistic facilities have been designed to balance efficiency and flexibility within manufacturing to ensure that we can respond quickly to unexpected demand levels and to meet ambitious on time, in full, delivery targets. We invest regularly in these facilities to maintain a market leading position in customer service. Resources and relationships Our key resources remain our customers and employees, our technical and business skills, our long heritage of manufacturing and willingness to embrace new methods to deliver an outstanding service. Whilst Churchill is not a global consumer brand it is recognised in the hospitality and housewares markets as representing performance, innovation, uncompromising service and responsiveness. We have long standing relationships with our customers. Whilst many of these are not contractual we continue to supply the same customers year after year with products that meet their requirements. Our customers value our technical ability, our service and increasingly our commitment to high quality design and innovation. Our employees also give us significant advantage. We believe we recruit and retain high quality individuals at all levels within the business who contribute towards the success and development of the Company. Almost without exception our employees demonstrate enviable commitment, skill and loyalty. The Group operates principally from one site in Stoke on Trent, England, a leading centre for ceramic excellence worldwide. This gives us access to key suppliers, technical support and experienced staff. Our manufacturing plant and logistics facilities have benefitted from significant and regular investment to improve our business’s efficiency and effectiveness. We believe we operate a cost effective and flexible manufacturing process allowing us to respond quickly to customer needs. We also use a number of smaller locations and representative offices around the world. Performance Hospitality markets have generally performed well, with increased levels of dining out in the UK and continued investment by pub, restaurant and hotel owners as major drivers of demand for our products. We have seen a further return on our investment in the development of European markets. Extensions to our product range, distribution network and increased sales resource have all contributed to strong growth in revenues. This has been supported by a more favourable exchange rate. Revenues in North America and other markets have also improved. Retail markets have remained subdued, with our revenues also affected by our decisions to allocate an increased proportion of our manufacturing capacity to Hospitality production and to scale back our offering of licensed in product. We ended 2014 reporting a further year of record Hospitality sales and a strong Group operating performance. We believe that the continued investments in sales, products and not least in our UK factory made in the year will underpin further progress in the future. We have a strong balance sheet including over £10m of net cash and short term deposits. The maintenance of EU duties on Chinese imports should continue to be positive for all UK ceramics manufacturers. Labour and material costs have risen again at slightly higher rates than underlying inflation. We have invested significantly in new products and our manufacturing process over several years and a number of these investments have contributed to our margin position both through cost reduction and improving our ability to offer cost effective added value products to our customers. The cost of imported product has continued to rise through 2014 due to increased inflation in Far Eastern economies. Our UK manufacturing operations remain subject to tight cost control but are a focus for further investment. 17 Strategic Report (continued) Key performance indicators Revenue and revenue growth The absolute levels of revenue and revenue growth are reviewed regularly by business segment through the year against previous year, current year targets and against strategic expectations. Revenue 2014: £44.5m (2013: £43.2m) Hospitality £36.0m (2013: £32.8m) Retail £8.5m (2013: £10.4m) Revenue growth 2014: 3% (2013: 4%) Hospitality 10% (2013: 11%) -18% (2013: -14%) Retail Sales to UK hospitality customers performed strongly, recording growth of 6%. Export sales rose by a higher figure, 16%, largely as our European business began to delivered further returns against the investments we have made in the market. Retail sales were lower, reflecting restricted availability of UK manufactured product and lower sales of licensed in products. Customer service and inventory Customer service and inventory holding levels are reviewed on a regular basis as part of the operational management of the Group’s business. The main aim of this measure is to ensure that the Group’s strong reputation for on time order fulfilment is maintained, consistent with the efficient operation of production and sourcing activities and the optimisation of working capital. Inventory 2014: £8.3m (2013: £8.8m) The fall in inventory holding levels reflects the strong trading levels experienced in Hospitality markets at the end of 2014 and the planned reduction of stock holdings associated with the Retail business. Operating profit and profit before taxation The level of operating profit and significant factors affecting its delivery are reviewed and controlled on a regular basis. Operating profit 2014: £4.2m (2013: £3.4m) Group operating profit increased by over 26%. Performance in our Hospitality division was significantly stronger as high revenue levels, particularly in export markets, offset the cost of additional investment in future development. Lower Retail profit reflected reduced sales, although margin levels were maintained. Central costs rose slightly. Operating margins increased satisfactorily to 9.5% (2013: 7.8%) reflecting an increased mix of added value product and withdrawal from less profitable market sectors in both Hospitality and Retail. The level of profit before tax is reviewed on a monthly basis against previous performance and target levels. Profit before taxation 2014: £4.3m (2013: £3.4m) Profit before taxation moved forward by 28% mainly as a result of the strong increase in operating profits. The notional interest charge associated with our pension scheme reduced. Our share of the profit of our associate company Furlong Mills was maintained. Operating cash generation The Group believes that over an extended time period it is important to generate cash at an operating level at least equivalent to declared operating profit. This measure identifies the effectiveness of our control over working capital demands and ensures that cash is available for further investment in the business, to meet taxation payments and to ensure that our shareholders receive an appropriate return. Operating cash generation 2014: £6.9m (2013: £4.6m) Percentage of operating cash generation to operating profit for the year: 162% (2013: 135%). Three year average percentage of operating cash generation to operating profit: 143% (2013: 156%). Operating cash generation was maintained at satisfactory levels given continued control of working capital. The increased level of operating profit was enhanced by a further reduction in inventory holdings. 18 Future outlook The Board believes that the strong position we hold in a number of hospitality markets will mean that we will continue to be able to improve our overall business performance. We expect to benefit from continued investment in new product development for hospitality products. We believe that the return from our Retail business will remain affected in the short term by a continued reduction in revenues, although this will be mitigated by stringent cost controls. The Group’s financial position allows us to invest for the long term and reduces the risk to the business from sudden changes in market conditions. The Board continues to believe that long term demand for hospitality products in developed markets will continue to increase as leisure related spending grows. There has been a long term expansion in eating out in the UK and the Group intends to continue to extend its leading UK position whilst investing in the development of export markets. In the UK we believe that we will continue to reinforce our market leadership based on our programme of introducing new products specifically targeted at meeting customer requirements. Our progress in export markets over the last five years provides us with an opportunity to grow future revenues steadily across a number of geographic sectors. It is therefore believed that there will be further opportunities for sustained growth in the medium and long term. Our market and product development strategies are well resourced and have generated a number of new options for us to address. We believe that we can continue to generate an acceptable return for shareholders from our reduced position in Retail markets. Our relatively small size and increased focus on profitable market sectors should continue to generate new opportunities. We expect that there will be some pressure on revenues and margins in markets where we sell in Euros given the likelihood of higher average levels of sterling in 2015, although this may be mitigated by more favourable US dollar exchange rates. We remain mindful of heightened political and economic risks in certain markets. We continue to approach all our markets with a view to long term, investment led, development. Principal risks and uncertainties The Group’s operations are subject to a number of risks, which are formally reviewed by the Board in a systematic manner on a regular basis. We then build processes to manage appropriately and mitigate risks where possible. The key business risks currently affecting the Group are set out below: Market change The Group operates in dynamic markets where there have been significant recent changes to economic conditions, distribution channels within each market and product requirements in these markets. The Group actively manages its market exposure and profitability, but risks losing revenue if we do not anticipate market trends. The risk inherent in each market is offset by regular review of market conditions and forecasts, the relatively broad spread of our operations in geographic terms and by a widening portfolio of products to serve different segments of these markets. We are actively developing new geographic markets and introducing new product ranges. As we enter new markets this introduces new risks to the Group although it does also diversify our overall market exposure and reliance on existing products. Currency exposure The Group’s position as a worldwide provider of ceramic and related products means that our profitability will be subject to currency fluctuations related to export sales and the purchase of certain products for resale. Our non sterling receipts are principally denominated in US dollars and Euros. Against US dollar receipts we have a partial natural offset due to our overseas purchasing. We would normally expect to have net Euro receipts but are working to reduce our overall trading exposure where possible. We review and control our transactional foreign currency exposure regularly and take appropriate action to manage net exposures using simple option forward contracts. We do not as a matter of policy take longer term positions to cover economic foreign currency exposure in this area, but review currency rate changes as part of our pricing policy. 19 Strategic Report (continued) Cost competitiveness and supply chain Our markets have been subject to significant cost movements in recent years. We have augmented our UK production facilities with a range of third party suppliers. The use of these suppliers exposes us to risks in relation to interruption to supply and changes in cost structures arising from economic or regulatory change. We manage this risk by diversifying our sources. Over 70% of our sales are manufactured in our UK production facility. Whilst this provides a high quality and effective source of products it exposes us to risk in the case of the potential loss of availability of our factory for an extended period. This risk is controlled through management procedures, appropriate investment and ultimately insurance arrangements. As a major user of energy within our production process we have an exposure to changes in availability and price of gas and electricity. We have sought to control this risk through management of our overall energy consumption and through contractual arrangements to ensure that we maintain adequate supplies of power at a cost which enables us to operate efficiently. Taxes,tariffs and duties The markets in which the Group operates are generally subject to various taxes, tariffs and duties levied by national and pan-national governments. These taxes, tariffs and duties and particularly changes in them may affect the Group’s operations and competitive position both positively and negatively. The Group meets its obligations under these taxes, tariffs and duties and adjusts its strategic and operational plans to reflect changes in their application. Customer and supplier creditworthiness Whilst the Group maintains a strong balance sheet and credit position it operates in a market where both customers and suppliers are exposed to credit and liquidity related problems. The Group manages this risk by trading, where possible, on secured terms and by regularly reviewing the economic and financial position of key business partners. Product compliance We are exposed to risk in relation to our products meeting accepted safety standards within the markets we serve. Each major geographic market applies different standards and legal penalties may be considerable for non compliance. New and more stringent standards may be introduced. We manage these risks principally through the monitoring of applicable standards, the testing of our product to ensure it meets these standards and sale in accordance with local regulations. We also, where practical, maintain appropriate external insurance. On behalf of the Board D J S Taylor Company Secretary 25 March 2015 20 Directors’ Report for the year ended 31 December 2014 The Directors present their annual report and the audited consolidated financial statements of the Group for the year ended 31 December 2014. The Company is a public limited company listed on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) and is incorporated and domiciled in the UK. The registered office is disclosed at the front of the Annual Report and the Company number is 02709505. The consolidated income statement for the year is set out on page 40. A review of the operations and future prospects of the Group is given in the Chairman’s Statement on page 6 and in the Strategic Report on page 16. The principal activity of the Group is the manufacture and sale of ceramic and related products for hospitality and household markets around the world. Dividends The Directors have paid the following dividends in respect of the years ended 31 December 2014 and 31 December 2013: Ordinary dividend: Final dividend 2013: 9.7p (Final dividend 2012: 9.4p) per 10p ordinary share Interim dividend 2014: 5.1p (2013: 4.9p) per 10p ordinary share 2014 £’000 1,062 557 1,619 2013 £’000 1,027 537 1,564 The Directors now recommend payment of the following dividend: Ordinary dividend: Final dividend 2014: 11.0p (2013: 9.7p) per 10p ordinary share 1,200 1,062 Dividends on treasury shares held by the Company are waived. Directors The Directors of the Company who have served during the year and up to the date of signing of the financial statements are as follows: A J McWalter* (Chairman) D M O’Connor D J S Taylor A D Roper* J W Morgan* B M Hynes * * Non Executive The Directors retiring by rotation are D M O’Connor and A D Roper who being eligible, offer themselves for re-election. The unexpired terms of the service contracts of D M O’Connor and A D Roper are both twelve months. The biographical details of the Directors are as follows: David O’Connor, Chief Executive Officer, has worked for Churchill for 24 years in a number of production, operations, marketing and senior management roles. He has extensive experience within the ceramics industry and joined the Board in 1999. He was appointed Chief Executive Officer in August 2014, having previously served as Chief Operating Officer since 2010. He has responsibility for the development of Group strategy and for operational performance and development. 21 Directors’ Report (continued) David Taylor, Finance Director and Company Secretary, has worked for the Group for 23 years. Following qualification as a Chartered Accountant with KPMG, he worked in a number of finance roles before joining Churchill in 1992. He was appointed to the Board in 1993. Alan McWalter, Non Executive Chairman, joined the Group in January 2011. He is a director of several listed and private companies and has extensive high level experience within marketing roles in a number of major companies in the Retail and Consumer Goods sectors. Andrew Roper, Non Executive Director, has worked for the Company since 1973. He was appointed to his present role in 2014 following his retirement from his executive role as Chief Executive Officer. Jonathan Morgan, Non Executive Director, is a Director of Aberdeen SVG Private Equity Managers Limited and has many years of experience in investment management within small and medium sized growth companies. He joined the Board in 2007. Brendan Hynes, Non Executive Director, is currently Chairman of Swallowfield plc alongside other directorships. He is a member of the CBI North West regional Council and was previously Chief Executive Officer of Nichols plc from 2007 to 2013. He joined the Board in 2013. Ethical standards The Group expect high ethical standards to be met in all areas of its operation and from all its employees and recognises the role of the Board in defining and meeting these standards. We have a published ethical policy. Employees The Company recognise that well trained and motivated employees are core to the current and future success of our business. We involve our workforce through open communication including team briefs and works committees to encourage engagement with the strategy and goals of the business. We work closely with the union representing our employees’ interests to develop a relationship that will benefit our employees and meet our business needs. We have continued to work with our local further educational colleges and training organisations to provide functional and vocational training for employees. During the year we established a manufacturing based apprenticeship scheme with the aim of developing important ceramic skills within our team. We continue to support a number of employees who are pursuing external qualifications in various areas. We continue to develop our multi-skilling programmes, particularly for supervisory and engineering employees enabling us to meet our strategic manufacturing objectives. Our long-term commitment to the training and development of all our employees has helped morale, motivation and labour retention. We remain committed to our graduate training programme helping local graduates into our industry. In the ten years since we established this initiative we have recruited a number of graduates who now hold senior posts within the business and are key to our succession plans for the future. We have this year also recruited a small number of apprentices into skilled roles in the factory, reinforcing our commitment to UK manufacturing. We remain fully committed to equal opportunities employment policy offering equality in recruitment, training and career development irrespective of gender, ethnic origin, age, marital status, religion, sexual orientation or disability. We actively work with employees who suffer ill-health during their employment with us to rehabilitate them back into the workforce wherever possible. Health and safety The health and safety of our employees is central to our operations and we invest significant effort and resource to target continuous improvement. Health and safety is a Board responsibility and receives constant management focus, the Board has access to appropriately trained and skilled assistance to meet its obligations. We have a published health and safety policy. In practice, our approach to health and safety is embedded in our day to day working practices. We aim to identify and to reduce health and safety risks associated with our operations to the lowest practical levels. We work to continually improve health and safety providing a safe and healthy working environment for all our employees and visitors. NEBOSH, NVQs and internal training programmes are regularly offered to update safety skills for all our employees. 22 Environment, social and community The Group considers and manages the impact of its actions on the environment and wider social and community issues. We assess our economic, social and environmental impact locally, nationally and internationally. The principal impact of the Group’s operations on the environment are in relation to the energy it consumes and the waste products produced as part of its operations. Whilst the Company manufactures a product which may be re-used many hundreds of times, a significant amount of energy is consumed in its production. As a result of this we have invested steadily to reduce our energy consumption and have replaced older systems and machinery with more modern energy efficient plant and procedures. We run on-going programmes to minimise energy usage and waste. We have significantly reduced the amount of waste sent from the Group to landfill. Where possible we source our materials and services locally. A strong support industry is important to the long term future of the Group. We also take an active role in supporting both the local ceramic industry and wider initiatives within the hospitality sector and support a number of training programmes. We understand that we have an impact on our local community and consider the effect of our actions on our local area. Where possible we work to reduce any adverse effects of our operations, consistent with the needs of other stakeholders within our business. We actively engage within our community through contact with our neighbours and local schools and particularly through local charity initiatives. We encourage and support our employees to become involved in community and charitable work. We run a number of events each year in support of charitable causes. We actively engage with our community through contact with our neighbours and local schools offering work experience, and through local and national charity initiatives. We have continued to support a number of community and charitable initiatives, principally the Douglas MacMillan Hospice. Research and development The introduction of new and innovative products, designs and process technology remains a cornerstone of our future strategy. The Group’s aim is to continue to identify future market trends and then to design and develop products that meet these needs. We have increased our investment in the development of new products across the year to take advantage of new market opportunities. A significant effort is made to develop our materials and process technologies to allow the introduction of more complex product designs. New product development is controlled through regular meetings and the success of new launches is reviewed in the short term against individual targets and over the longer term as a function of our strategy. Overseas branches The Group’s principal operations are located within the United Kingdom, however Churchill China plc also operates from a US based sales subsidiary. Insurance for Directors The Group maintains liability insurance for the Directors in respect of their duties as Directors. Financing The Group currently utilises equity and retained earnings to finance its operations in relation to short, medium and long term requirements. The Group has historically enjoyed a good record of operating cash generation and forward investment and other cash requirements have been financed from this source. If additional financing is needed in the short term the Group has access to short term variable rate financing arrangements on an unsecured basis to provide finance for working capital requirements should they be required. The Group is currently ungeared and there are no assets currently subject to security, although cross guarantees exist between different Group companies. These assets would therefore form an alternative source of short to medium term funding if this were required. Larger long term funding requirements may be met from debt and equity sources if this is required. During the year the Group generated £6.9m of operating cash flow and after payment of corporate taxation of £0.7m, invested £2.3m net in capital projects and returned £1.8m to shareholders by way of dividend and buy back of shares. The Group reviews and maintains adequate levels of liquidity to meet short term operating commitments as part of its day to day treasury management. Longer term liquidity and cash requirements are reviewed as part of the Group’s budgetary and strategic planning processes. 23 Directors’ Report (continued) Financial instruments The Group uses its own cash resources and forward exchange contracts and foreign currency bank accounts to manage its exposure to exchange rate risk caused by trading activities in currencies other than sterling. The risk management policy adopted is to regularly review forward foreign currency cash flows, identifying the currency effect of completed sale and purchase transactions, transactions which have been contracted for but not completed and an assessment of expected likely forward cash flows. The net currency exposure arising from this review is then managed using forward option contracts. Net currency exposures are generally covered between three and six months forward at any point in time. The Group does not trade in financial instruments. The Group has no material interest rate risk, the only interest rate exposure is in relation to returns on short term cash deposits and borrowings. Note 2 to the accounts includes financial risk considerations. Land and buildings The current value of land and buildings is, in the opinion of the Directors, in excess of the value included in these accounts. This has not been quantified because independent valuations have not been undertaken. Substantial shareholdings The Directors have been advised of the following individual interests, or group of interests, other than those dealt with in the summary of Directors’ interests in the Remuneration Report, held by persons acting together, which at 13 March 2015 exceeded 3% of the Company’s issued share capital: Shareholder J A Roper S Baker New Landfinance Holdings Limited BVI Investec Wealth and Investment Rathbone Nominees Limited E S & S J Roper M J & G Roper Henderson Global Investors Limited Number of ordinary shares 1,077,500 1,075,000 1,075,000 961,327 644,933 592,265 495,565 440,000 Percentage 9.9% 9.9% 9.9% 8.8% 5.9% 5.4% 4.5% 4.0% Share repurchase The maximum number of shares held in treasury by the Company during the year was 48,000 10p ordinary shares. During the year the Company repurchased 36,000 (2013: 15,000) 10p ordinary shares at a total cost of £183,000 (2013: £52,000) in order to improve overall shareholder return. No (2013: 36,000) shares were re-issued in respect of employee share option schemes for a total consideration of £nil (2013: £75,000). The Company retains a power, subject to the fulfilment of certain conditions and as approved at the 2014 Annual General Meeting, for the further purchase of its own shares. Political contributions The Group made no political contributions (2013: £nil) during the year. 24 Statement of Directors’ responsibilities 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 prepared the Group financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) as adopted by the European Union, and the parent company financial statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable law). 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 the Company and of the profit or loss of the Group for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the Directors are required to: ●● select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; ●● make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent; ●● state whether IFRSs as adopted by the European Union and applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the Group and Parent Company financial statements respectively; ●● prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Company will continue in business. The Directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the Company’s transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Company and the Group and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. The Directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the Company’s website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions. Disclosure of information to auditors In the case of each of the persons who are Directors at the date of this report, as far as each Director is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the Company’s auditors are unaware. Each Director has taken all the steps that he ought to have taken in his duty as a Director in order to make himself aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the Company’s auditors are aware of that information. Independent auditors The auditors, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, have indicated their willingness to continue in office and a resolution that they be re-appointed will be proposed at the Annual General Meeting. By order of the Board D J S Taylor Company Secretary 25 March 2015 25 Remuneration Report for the year ended 31 December 2014 Annual Statement This section of the Remuneration Report is not audited. The Remuneration Committee considered two principal issues this year, firstly to reflect in remuneration packages the change in role of two Directors during the year and secondly to continue to develop the alignment of Executive Directors’ remuneration packages with shareholders’ interests. Details of the outcome of this work are discussed later in the Annual Report on Remuneration. The backdrop to the Remuneration Report this year is that the Group has continued to progress well. Performance in 2014 was again strong with operating profits 26% ahead of the prior year. This is a continuation of our record of growth over the medium term. We have also made progress in the development and implementation of our strategy including further long term investment. In financial terms we grew pre tax profit by 28% and cash and deposit balances have increased by £2.3m. We have increased the dividend declared in relation to the year by 10%. Total shareholder return over the year rose substantially by 42%, or over £18m in absolute terms. We have also made progress in the development and implementation of our strategy. We have improved our position in a number of markets and have made substantial investments to improve our manufacturing operations. Given this particularly strong performance, we are pleased to report that the Executive Directors have achieved higher profit related payments in respect of annual bonuses paid in cash and have met stretching targets measured over three years under our Long Term Incentive Plan, which will be satisfied in the form of shares to be retained by the Directors concerned. This element of remuneration is discussed in more detail later. Overall Board remuneration rose by 68% with the increase in variable pay linked to increases in short and medium term profitability accounting for all of this rise. For the first time the remuneration figures include amounts recognised in relation to the grant of share options under our Long Term Incentive Plan. The grant made in 2012 was dependent on the achievement of stretching in earnings per share in the three years to 31 December 2014. It has been our objective to directly link executive remuneration to shareholder value and we are pleased with the degree of alignment achieved, which we believe is to the benefit of shareholders. Over this three year period earnings per share have risen by a compound rate of 17% which has resulted in vesting at the maximum level of the 2012 award under our scheme. On legal vesting in June 2015, Directors will be required to retain the shares awarded (after payment of income taxes due) towards their shareholding requirements. Further awards were made to two of the Executive Directors under the Company’s Long Term Incentive Plan introduced in 2012 There has been no substantial change to our Remuneration Policy over the year. Whilst as an AIM listed Company we are not required to satisfy the Directors Remuneration Report (‘DRR’) guidelines we continue to provide information on certain requirements of the Regulations to reflect good practice where this in the interests of shareholders and where the cost and benefit of supplying this information is appropriate. The Remuneration Committee is composed of J W Morgan, who acts as Chairman, A J McWalter, A D Roper and B M Hynes, all of whom are Non Executive Directors. During the year the following provided advice which materially assisted the Remuneration Committee; Deloitte LLP. A D Roper (Chief Executive Officer until 16 August 2014) and A M Basnett (HR Director, Churchill China (UK) Limited) attended the Remuneration Committee meetings. Directors’ remuneration policy This section of the Remuneration Report is not audited. This section sets out the Company’s directors’ remuneration policy, which will apply from the date of the 2014 Annual General Meeting. The policy is determined by the Remuneration Committee of the Company. The Remuneration Committee also reserves the right to make any remuneration payments and payments for loss of office notwithstanding that they are not in line with the Policy set out below where the terms of the payment were agreed: ●● before the Policy came into effect or ●● at a time when the relevant individual was not a Director of the Company and, in the opinion of the Remuneration Committee, the payment was not in consideration for the individual becoming a Director of the Company. 26 For these purposes “payments” includes the Remuneration Committee satisfying awards of variable remuneration and, in relation to an award over shares, the terms of the payment are “agreed” at the time the award is granted. For the avoidance of doubt, the Remuneration Committee’s discretion includes discretion to determine, in accordance with the rules of the LTIP, the extent to which awards under that plan may vest in the event of a change of control or in a “good leaver” circumstance. The Remuneration Committee may make minor changes to this Policy, which do not have a material advantage to Directors, to aid in its operation or implementation. Future policy table Executive Directors The table below describes each of the elements of the remuneration package for the Executive Directors. Purpose and link to strategy Operation Maximum potential value Performance metrics Basic pay Core element of fixed remuneration to help recruit and retain employees of the appropriate calibre and experience Not applicable, although overall performance of the individual and the Company is considered by the Remuneration Committee when setting and reviewing salaries. Basic pay for Executive Directors is normally reviewed annually (but may be reviewed more frequently if required). Consideration is given to the following when determining basic pay levels: ●● Market conditions There is no prescribed maximum annual increase. However, consideration is normally given to the average change in salary for the workforce as a whole. The Remuneration Committee considers any salary increases above the workforce average carefully. including typical pay levels for comparator companies taking into account the relative scale and complexity of the role and business The Remuneration Committee may award salary increases above the workforce average in certain circumstances including, but not limited to: Annual Bonus Rewards the achievement of annual financial and strategic business targets as well as the delivery of personal objectives ●● An Executive Director assuming additional responsibilities ●● Significant improvement in individual performance ●● Salary falling behind market level Executive Directors are entitled to earn up to 100% of basic pay as a bonus. ●● Scale and scope of the role, experience and performance of the individual ●● Average change in salary for the workforce as a whole Bonus payments are made in cash following the completion of the audit for the year in which bonuses are earned. The Remuneration Committee may adjust the bonus pay-out should the formulaic outcome be considered not to reflect underlying business performance. Bonus payments are non- pensionable. The bonus plan is based on the achievement of challenging performance targets. The financial measures which account for the majority of the bonus will generally include a measure of profitability and/or cash generation. Other targets may include the achievement of strategic objectives and specific personal objectives. 27 Remuneration Report (continued) Purpose and link to strategy Operation Maximum potential value Performance metrics Benefits Provide a market competitive benefits package to help recruit and retain employees of the appropriate calibre and experience Executive Directors are entitled to receive benefits including healthcare benefits and a fully expensed company car (or cash allowance) where it is deemed necessary to their role. Set at a level which the Remuneration Committee considers to be appropriately positioned taking into account the scale and scope of the role and market conditions in comparator companies. Not applicable. 10% of basic pay under the defined contribution scheme. Not applicable. Pensions Provide market competitive post-employment benefits to help recruit and retain employees of the appropriate calibre and experience Executive Directors are entitled to receive repayment of costs deemed necessary for them to perform their duties. Other benefits may be provided based on individual circumstances including, but not limited to, housing or relocation expenses. Executive Directors are entitled to membership of Company pension schemes in operation from time to time. The Company currently operates a defined contribution scheme. The Company previously operated a defined benefit scheme, which was closed for future accrual in 2006. All Executive Directors are deferred members of this scheme. Executive Directors may choose to receive a salary supplement in lieu of pensions up to the value of the normal contribution level at no extra cost to the Company. Bonus and other benefits received by Executive Directors do not count towards pensionable pay. 28 Purpose and link to strategy Operation Maximum potential value Performance metrics Executive Directors may be granted LTIP awards up to 100% of salary each year. For threshold performance, 25% of the award vests. For on-target performance, 40% of the award vests. Straight line vesting applies between threshold, target and maximum vesting. Challenging performance targets are set each year reflecting the business priorities that underpin longer term Group strategy. At least 50% of the LTIP award will normally vest based on adjusted Earnings Per Share performance targets. Long term incentive schemes Incentivises employees to achieve a higher and sustained level of return to shareholders over a longer period of time Supports retention and promotes share ownership Clawback and malus applies to enable the Company to mitigate risk The Company operates an LTIP approved by shareholders on 16 May 2012. LTIP awards are made on an annual basis typically in the form of nil or nominal cost options with vesting dependent on the achievement of performance conditions, normally over a three year period. Vested LTIP options must be exercised within ten years of the date of grant. No dividend equivalents are offered between grant and vesting. The Remuneration Committee has the right to operate both clawback and malus provisions in respect of LTIP awards in relation to circumstances of corporate failure which may have occurred at any time before claw back is operated. LTIP payments are non- pensionable. There were no changes to Remuneration Policy during the year. Non-Executive Directors The table below sets out an overview of the remuneration of Non-Executive Directors. Purpose and link to strategy Operation Chairman and Non-Executive Director fees Provide an appropriate reward to help recruit and retain Non-Executive Directors of the appropriate calibre and experience Fees for Non-Executive Directors are normally reviewed annually (but may be reviewed more frequently if required). Consideration is given to the following when determining fee levels: ●● Market conditions including typical fee levels for comparator companies ●● A Non-Executive Director’s role and responsibilities Non-Executive Directors do not participate in any incentive scheme. There were no changes to Remuneration Policy during the year. 29 Remuneration Report (continued) Explanation of performance metrics chosen The annual bonus is assessed against financial, strategic and personal performance conditions, as determined by the Remuneration Committee. This incentivises Executive Directors to focus on delivering the financial goals of the Company, wider Company performance and bespoke individual objectives for each Executive Director. We believe that this encourages behaviour that facilitates the future development of the business. The LTIP is assessed against longer term financial performance conditions, including adjusted earnings per share, to provide a robust measurement of the Company’s financial performance over the longer term and ability to deliver a higher and sustained level of return to shareholders. The Remuneration Committee retains the discretion to adjust the performance conditions and targets where it considers it appropriate to do so. Pay policy for other employees The Company values its wider workforce and aims to provide a remuneration package that is market competitive, complies with any statutory requirements and is applied fairly and consistently across the wider employee population. Where remuneration is not determined by statutory regulation, the key principles of the compensation philosophy are as follows: ●● We remunerate people in a manner that allows for stability of the business and the opportunity for sustainable long term growth ●● We seek to remunerate fairly and consistently for each role with due regard to market conditions, internal consistency and the Company’s ability to pay Total reward for Executive Directors will be set with sensitivity to subordinate staff within the Group with whom the packages will, as far as possible, be consistent and fair. The Company takes into account the following when setting the Remuneration Policy for Executive Directors: ●● Salary increases for the wider workforce ●● Company-wide benefit (including pension) offerings ●● Overall spend and participation levels in the annual bonus and LTIP Statement of consideration of shareholder views The Remuneration Committee considers a pro-active and transparent dialogue with its shareholders to be important. The Remuneration Committee will consult with major shareholders when it proposes to make any major changes to the Remuneration Policy for Directors. 30 Annual report on remuneration This section of the Remuneration Report is audited. Emoluments of the Directors were as follows: 2014 Executive A D Roper D J S Taylor D M O’Connor Non Executive A J McWalter J W Morgan B M Hynes 2013 Executive A D Roper D J S Taylor D M O’Connor Non Executive J N E Sparey A J McWalter J W Morgan B M Hynes Salary £ Benefits £ Pensions £ Annual bonus £ Long term incentive plan £ Total remuneration £ 160,000 190,565 212,427 65,000 39,000 39,000 705,992 200,000 185,817 197,031 25,000 53,542 38,000 13,000 712,390 626 770 550 – – – 1,946 707 849 661 – – – – 2,217 – 19,056 21,243 – – – 40,299 – 18,582 19,703 – – – – 38,285 144,000 135,321 161,000 – – – 440,321 108,753 77,470 82,102 – – – – 268,325 – 253,744 268,915 – – – 522,659 – – – – – – – – 304,626 599,456 664,135 65,000 39,000 39,000 1,711,217 309,460 282,718 299,497 25,000 53,542 38,000 13,000 1,021,217 On 15 August 2014, A D Roper retired as the Chief Executive Officer of the Company and D M O’Connor was appointed to that role. A D Roper’s salary was adjusted to £80,000 per annum, reflecting his non executive duties and further responsibilities in providing advice and other services to the Group. In recognition of his increased responsibilities, D M O’Connor’s salary was raised to £230,000 per annum. The salary of the remaining Executive Director, D J S Taylor, was increased by 2.5% in line with the general inflationary increase given to other employees. There were no contracts of significance during or at the end of the financial year in which a Director of the Company was materially interested. No Director waived emoluments in respect of the years ended 31 December 2014 and 2013. Pension costs above represent contributions made by the Group to defined contribution schemes. 31 Remuneration Report (continued) Performance bonuses Performance bonuses were awarded given the achievement of growth in Operating Profit substantially above target levels and also successful performance against personal objectives. During 2014 Executive Directors were able to earn 7% of salary for achievement of threshold profit levels and 14% for on target performance. Maximum potential bonuses were up to 100% of base salary. Straight line vesting applied between threshold, target and maximum vesting. Profit based awards during the year ranged from 56% to 66% of base salary and personal objectives represented 14% of base salary. Long term incentive plan This section of the Remuneration Report is audited. Details of share options granted under the Long Term Incentive Plan are as follows: D J S Taylor Long Term Incentive Plan Long Term Incentive Plan Long Term Incentive Plan D M O’Connor Long Term Incentive Plan Long Term Incentive Plan Long Term Incentive Plan Date of grant 21.06.12 03.05.13 01.05.14 21.06.12 03.05.13 01.05.14 Number of options 31 December 2014 Number of options 31 December 2013 Exercise Price pence Date from which exercisable 46,730 21,333 16,580 49,524 22,609 17,571 46,730 21,333 – 49,524 22,609 – 10 10 10 10 10 10 Jun 2015 May 2016 May 2017 Jun 2015 May 2016 May 2017 Expiry date Jun 2022 May 2023 May 2024 Jun 2022 May 2023 May 2024 Exercise of the above options is subject to the achievement of performance conditions as specified by the Remuneration Committee and are subject to clawback and malus provisions in certain circumstances. The above number of options represent the amount that will vest based on the achievement of maximum performance targets. A lower percentage of the above will vest given the achievement of lower than maximum performance. At target performance levels 40% of the above options would be expected to vest. Below threshold performance no options will vest. 34,151 options were granted on 1 May 2014. The market price of the Company’s shares at the date of grant was 455p. For the options granted on 1 May 2014, 100% of the shares will vest given an increase of 42% in adjusted EPS* (‘maximum performance’) in the year to 31 December 2016 over the base year of 31 December 2013, 40% of the above shares for an increase of 35% in adjusted EPS (‘target performance’) and 25% of the above shares for an increase of 28% in adjusted EPS (‘threshold performance’). Between those levels shares will vest on a pro rata basis. * Given previous changes in accounting standards relating to the calculation of notional interest on pension scheme liabilities, notional pension fund interest has been excluded from both the base and target EPS levels. 32 Share price movements during the year The market price of the Company’s shares at the end of the financial year was 555p (2013: 400p). The range of prices for the year to 31 December 2014 was 400p to 575p (2013: 305p to 404p) per ordinary share. Pensions This section of the Remuneration Report is audited. D J S Taylor and D M O’Connor are members of the Churchill China 2006 Group Personal Pension Plan. Contributions made by the Group were as shown on page 31 and are at a rate of 10% of basic salary. A D Roper is not a member of the Churchill China 2006 Group Personal Pension Plan and does not receive ongoing pension benefits as part of his remuneration. All scheme members have the opportunity to pay Additional Voluntary Contributions. Neither the contributions nor the resulting benefits are included in the above table. All Executive Directors are deferred members of the Churchill Retirement Benefit Scheme. The pension benefit of A D Roper was funded to allow retirement based on accrued service to 31 March 2006 on attaining the age of 60 years. The pension benefit of D J S Taylor is funded to allow retirement between the ages of 60 and 65 with a pension based on accrued service to 31 March 2006. The pension benefit of D M O’Connor is funded to allow retirement at 65 with a pension based on accrued service to 31 March 2006. The value of D M O’Connor’s accrued benefits earned under the Churchill Group Retirement Benefit Scheme was £608,796 (2013: £600,555). The value of the accrued pension was £30,028 (2013: £29,640). This increase in benefits reflected the normal change in benefits for a deferred member under the Scheme rules, no additional current service contributions have been made since the closure of the Scheme to future accrual in 2006. Andrew Roper retired on 15 August 2014 and now receives benefits as a pensioner member of the Churchill Group Retirement Benefit Scheme. Directors’ service contracts This section of the Remuneration Report is not audited. Executive Directors are not appointed on contracts for a fixed duration. All Executive Directors have contracts of service which can be terminated with a notice period of twelve months from the Company or six months from the Director. D J S Taylor’s service contract was signed on 6 October 2009 and D M O’Connor’s on 15 May 2012. Non Executive Directors are generally appointed on fixed term contracts. A J McWalter signed a fixed term contract of three years’ duration on 4 June 2013. B M Hynes signed a fixed term contract of three years’ duration on 14 August 2013. J W Morgan signed a fixed term contract of one years’ duration on 24 March 2014. Non Executive Directors contracts may normally be terminated with a notice period of three months. A D Roper remains on a contract signed on 10 September 2009 which is terminable with a notice period of twelve months from the Company or six months from the Director. There are no defined contractual payments in the event of termination of a Director’s service contract. 33 Remuneration Report (continued) Directors’ interests This section of the Remuneration Report is not audited. The interests of the Directors and their immediate families and family trusts at 31 December 2014 in the 10p ordinary shares of the Company were as follows: A D Roper D J S Taylor D M O’Connor J W Morgan A J McWalter B M Hynes 2014 642,430 20,000 6,000 28,000 5,000 4,000 705,430 2013 662,430 20,000 6,000 28,000 5,000 – 721,430 A D Roper’s interest in the 10p ordinary shares of the Company at 31 December 2014 represented 5.9% (2013: 6.1%) of the Company’s issued share capital. There has been no change in the interests set out above between 31 December 2014 and 26 March 2015. Director shareholding requirements Directors are expected to hold shares in the Company in order to align their interests with those of shareholders. In the longer term Executive Directors are encouraged to hold the equivalent of 100% of annual base salary as shares in the Company and it is expected that this target level will be achieved by the retention of shares vesting under the Long Term Incentive Plan after the payment of associated tax. Shareholder consultation The Remuneration Committee will consult with major shareholders in relation to its operation and particularly in relation to any major changes in Remuneration Policy. During the year, with the exception of the standard resolution at the Annual General Meeting, the Remuneration Committee did not believe there was any requirement to make any approach to shareholders on remuneration issues. No significant comments have been received from shareholders in relation to remuneration matters. At the 2014 Annual General Meeting, the standard resolution in relation to the approval of the Report of the Remuneration Committee contained in the Annual Report for 2013 was passed. 99.95% of votes were cast in favour of the resolution, 0.03% against, with 0.02% abstaining. 34 Performance Graph This section of the Remuneration Report is not audited. Total Shareholder Return 300.00 250.00 200.00 150.00 100.00 50.00 0.00 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Churchill AIM (Source: N+1 Singer) Over a five year period the Group’s total return to shareholders has been substantially above that generated by the AIM index. Total returns from the Group in the year have been supported by a further improvement in profitability and continuation of our progressive dividend policy. A higher price earnings multiple has also been applied by shareholders to the Group’s post tax earnings. Our overall five year return has remained positive at an average compound rate of 20% (AIM: 2%). Over the five year period total shareholder return from the Group has been 148%, whilst that achieved by the AIM index as a whole was 12%. In the year to 31 December 2014 the overall return from the Group was 42%, the AIM index reported a fall of 16%. In the opinion of the Directors the above index is the most appropriate to measure the total shareholder return of Churchill China plc against. On behalf of the Board J W Morgan Chairman of the Remuneration Committee 25 March 2015 35 Corporate Governance This statement is unaudited. As a Company quoted on the Alternative Investment Market of the London Stock Exchange, the Company is not required to comply with the UK Corporate Governance Code (“the Code”), however the Board supports the standards required by the Code and seeks to comply with the principles of the Code as far as practically possible. The Company uses the Quoted Companies Alliances ‘Corporate Governance Guidelines for Smaller Quoted Companies’ as a benchmark to define and review its governance procedures. The Board of Directors The Board is currently composed of two Executive and four Non Executive Directors and meets at least eleven times per year. It is felt that the current composition and operation of the Board is adequate to ensure a balance of power and authority. The Non Executive members of the Board take an active and influential part in Board procedures and a senior independent Non Executive Director, J W Morgan, has been formally appointed. The Code recommends that the Boards of listed companies include at least three independent Non Executive Directors. The Board has fully reviewed the independence of Non Executive Directors and J W Morgan, A J McWalter and B M Hynes are all considered to be independent under the terms of the Code. A D Roper, who became a Non Executive Director on 16 August 2014, is not considered to be independent under the terms of the Code given his previous service as an Executive Director and his substantial shareholding. As the Board contains three independent Non Executive Directors this is not believed to be of major significance. In addition to a formal agenda covering financial control, management and business development, there is appropriate debate addressing areas outside the regular agenda to ensure that all Directors are able to take an informed view of the progress of the business. The nature of the organisational structure of the Group allows Executive Directors to maintain a close involvement in all aspects of the Group’s operations. A schedule of matters reserved for Board decision is maintained and a procedure exists to allow Directors access to independent professional advice if required. The following table shows the attendance of Directors at Board meetings through the year. A D Roper D J S Taylor D M O’Connor J W Morgan A J McWalter B M Hynes Meetings held Meetings attended 12 12 12 12 12 12 11 12 12 12 12 12 The Directors consider that the Board of Directors include key management for all areas of the business and that there are no other key management which require disclosure. There are two principal sub-committees of the Board. The Audit Committee, which is wholly composed of Non Executive Directors, meets at least twice per year to receive reports from executive management and external auditors and is normally attended by the Finance Director. The Audit Committee is chaired by B M Hynes. The Audit Committee has considered the independence of the Auditors, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP and is satisfied that they are independent. The Remuneration Committee is wholly composed of Non Executive Directors and is normally attended by the Chief Executive Officer who takes no part in discussions on his own remuneration. The Remuneration Committee is chaired by J W Morgan. Terms of reference for both Committees and a remuneration policy statement have been agreed by the Board. The Company does not have a Nomination Committee as new Board appointments are discussed by the Board as a whole, rather than by delegation to a Committee. 36 Internal control The Board of Directors has overall responsibility for the Group’s system of internal control and is responsible for reviewing its effectiveness. This system is designed to manage rather than eliminate the risk of failure to achieve business objectives and provides reasonable, but not absolute, assurance against material misstatement or loss. The Board has established a system for ongoing review of risk assessment and management procedures to ensure that the controls on which it places reliance are operating satisfactorily and those new risks to which the business becomes exposed through its activities are recognised and appropriate controls implemented. These procedures have been in operation throughout the year and in the period to the date of this report. The risks to which the Group is exposed are formally reviewed by the Board on a regular basis. Individual reviews of risk areas are carried out and the results reported to the Board. Operational responsibility for each of the main risk areas has been clearly identified and are allocated to either Directors of the Company or of the Company’s principal operating subsidiary, Churchill China (UK) Limited, under the supervision of the Board as a whole. Individual managers and employees are also aware, where appropriate, of their responsibilities in both identifying and controlling risk. The Company’s systems in relation to risk assessment and control seek to ensure that as part of the normal process of business management material risks are identified and brought to the attention of the Board. Directors review risk as part of a regular programme of meetings covering both general business processes and specific risk areas, risk is assessed as part of the strategic process. A system of reporting is in place to provide control information on key risk areas within reports submitted to the Board and reviewed. In addition to this Directors and managers are aware of their responsibility to monitor both changes in business activity and changes to the economical legislative environment in which the Company operates. Potential new risk areas have been identified and control procedures documented. The Board and the Audit Committee have reviewed the effectiveness of the system of internal control during the year. Internal audit The Company does not employ an internal audit department and does not believe that, given the size and structure of the business, the geographic proximity of its major operations and the close control effected by the involvement of Executive Directors in the day to day running of the business, such a department would provide an effective means of gaining significant improvements in internal control. The requirement for an internal audit function is reviewed annually. Internal financial control The Board of Directors has overall responsibility for the Group’s systems of internal financial control which it exercises through an organisational structure with authorisation, monitoring and reporting procedures which are appropriate to the needs of the business. These systems have been designed to give the Board reasonable, but not absolute, assurance against material misstatement or loss. The principal features of the Group’s system of internal financial control are: the maintenance of a control environment in which the need for the highest standards of behaviour and integrity are communicated to employees; the use of a detailed reporting system covering performance against comprehensive financial and other key operating indicators. The Board and the Audit Committee have reviewed the operation and effectiveness of the system of internal financial control during the year. The Board have responded to this review with management and work to address the areas identified. Going concern The Board confirms that having made enquiries, the Directors have a reasonable expectation that the Group and the Company have adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. For this reason they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing financial statements. By order of the Board D J S Taylor Company Secretary 25 March 2015 37 Independent Auditors’ Report to the Members of Churchill China plc Report on the financial statements Our opinion In our opinion: ●● Churchill China plc’s Group financial statements and Company financial statements (the “financial statements”) give a true and fair view of the state of the Group’s and of the Company’s affairs as at 31 December 2014 and of the Group’s profit and cash flows for the year then ended; ●● the Group financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRSs”) as adopted by the European Union; ●● the Company financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and ●● the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006. What we have audited Churchill China plc’s financial statements comprise: ●● the Consolidated balance sheet as at 31 December 2014; ●● the Company balance sheet as at 31 December 2014; ●● the Consolidated income statement and Consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the year then ended; ●● the Consolidated cash flow statement for the year then ended; ●● the Consolidated statement of changes in equity for the year then ended: ●● the Reconciliation of operating profit to net cash inflow from operating activities; and ●● the Notes to the financial statements, which include a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory information. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in the preparation of the Group financial statements is applicable law and IFRSs as adopted by the European Union. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in the preparation of the parent company financial statements is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). In applying the financial reporting framework, the Directors have made a number of subjective judgements, for example in respect of significant accounting estimates. In making such estimates, they have made assumptions and considered future events. Opinion on other matter prescribed by the Companies Act 2006 In our opinion, 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. Other matters on which we are required to report by exception Adequacy of accounting records and information and explanations received Under the Companies Act 2006 we are required to report to you if, in our opinion: ●● we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit; or ●● adequate accounting records have not been kept by the Company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or ●● the Company financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns. We have no exceptions to report arising from this responsibility. Directors’ remuneration Under the Companies Act 2006 we are required to report to you if, in our opinion, certain disclosures of Directors’ remuneration specified by law are not made. We have no exceptions to report arising from this responsibility. 38 Responsibilities for the financial statements and the audit Our responsibilities and those of the Directors As explained more fully in the Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities set out on page 25, the Directors are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view. Our responsibility is to audit and express an opinion on the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and International Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland) (“ISAs (UK & Ireland)”). Those standards require us to comply with the Auditing Practices Board’s Ethical Standards for Auditors. This report, including the opinions, has been prepared for and only for the Company’s members as a body in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006 and for no other purpose. We do not, in giving these opinions, accept or assume responsibility for any other purpose or to any other person to whom this report is shown or into whose hands it may come save where expressly agreed by our prior consent in writing. What an audit of financial statements involves We conducted our audit in accordance with ISAs (UK & Ireland). An audit involves obtaining evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements sufficient to give reasonable assurance that the financial statements are free from material misstatement, whether caused by fraud or error. This includes an assessment of: ●● whether the accounting policies are appropriate to the Group’s and the Company’s circumstances and have been consistently applied and adequately disclosed; ●● the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by the Directors; and ●● the overall presentation of the financial statements. We primarily focus our work in these areas by assessing the Directors’ judgements against available evidence, forming our own judgements, and evaluating the disclosures in the financial statements. We test and examine information, using sampling and other auditing techniques, to the extent we consider necessary to provide a reasonable basis for us to draw conclusions. We obtain audit evidence through testing the effectiveness of controls, substantive procedures or a combination of both. In addition, we read all the financial and non-financial information in the Annual Report and Financial Statements to identify material inconsistencies with the audited financial statements and to identify any information that is apparently materially incorrect based on, or materially inconsistent with, the knowledge acquired by us in the course of performing the audit. If we become aware of any apparent material misstatements or inconsistencies we consider the implications for our report. Paul Norbury (Senior Statutory Auditor) for and on behalf of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditors Birmingham 25 March 2015 39 Consolidated Income Statement for the year ended 31 December 2014 Revenue Operating profit Share of results of associate company Finance income Finance costs Profit before income tax Income tax expense Profit for the year attributable to owners of the Company Basic earnings per ordinary share Diluted earnings per share Notes 4 5 15 8 8 10 11 11 2014 £’000 44,518 2013 £’000 43,157 4,249 116 76 (124) 4,317 (901) 3,416 3,371 116 92 (209) 3,370 (609) 2,761 31.2p 25.2p 30.8p 24.9p All of the above figures relate to continuing operations. The notes on pages 47 to 76 are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. The Company has elected to take the exemption under section 408 of the Companies Act 2006 not to present the Company profit and loss account. The profit of the Company for the year was £1,414,000 (2013: £1,432,000). 40 Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income for the year ended 31 December 2014 Other comprehensive (expense) / income Items that will not be reclassified to profit and loss: Remeasurements of post employment benefit obligations (note 23) Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit and loss: Impact of change in UK tax rate on deferred tax on revaluation reserve Currency translation differences Other comprehensive (expense) / income for the year Profit for the year Total comprehensive income for the year Attributable to: Equity holders of the Company 2014 £’000 2013 £’000 (1,850) – 17 (1,833) 3,416 1,583 644 37 (5) 676 2,761 3,437 1,583 3,437 Amounts in the statement above are disclosed net of tax. The income tax relating to each component of other comprehensive income is disclosed in note 10. The Company has no recognised gains and losses other than those included in its profit and loss account and therefore no separate Statement of Total Recognised Gains and Losses has been presented. 41 Consolidated Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2014 Assets Non current assets Property, plant and equipment Intangible assets Investment in associate Deferred income tax assets Current assets Inventories Trade and other receivables Other financial assets Cash and cash equivalents Total assets Liabilities Current liabilities Trade and other payables Current income tax liabilities Non current liabilities Deferred income tax liabilities Retirement benefit obligations Total liabilities Net assets Equity attributable to owners of the Company Issued share capital Share premium account Treasury shares Other reserves Retained earnings Total equity Notes 2014 £’000 2013 £’000 13 14 15 22 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 24 25 26 27 14,258 63 1,096 1,117 16,534 8,274 8,255 1,500 8,961 26,990 43,524 (8,676) (698) (9,374) (1,070) (4,674) (15,118) 28,406 1,096 2,348 (224) 1,532 23,654 28,406 13,667 359 980 765 15,771 8,769 8,571 1,000 7,199 25,539 41,310 (8,298) (564) (8,862) (1,102) (2,914) (12,878) 28,432 1,096 2,348 (41) 1,332 23,697 28,432 The notes on pages 47 to 76 are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. The financial statements on pages 40 to 76 were approved by the Board of Directors on 25 March 2015 and were signed on its behalf by: D M O’Connor Director D J S Taylor Director Company number 02709505 42 Company Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2014 Fixed assets Investment in associate Investments in subsidiaries Deferred income tax assets Current assets Debtors: amounts falling due after more than one year Debtors: amounts falling due within one year Cash at bank and in hand Creditors: amounts falling due within one year Net current assets Total assets less current liabilities Net assets Capital and reserves Called up share capital Share premium account Treasury shares Other reserves Profit and loss account Total shareholders’ funds Notes 15 16 22 19 19 21 24 24 25 26 27 2014 £’000 355 2,195 61 2,611 5,136 174 415 5,725 (106) 5,619 8,230 2013 £’000 355 2,195 8 2,558 5,310 164 421 5,895 (28) 5,867 8,425 8,230 8,425 1,096 2,348 (224) 307 4,703 8,230 1,096 2,348 (41) 114 4,908 8,425 The notes on pages 47 to 76 are an integral part of these financial statements. The financial statements on pages 40 to 76 were approved by the Board of Directors on 25 March 2015 and were signed on its behalf by: D M O’Connor Director D J S Taylor Director 43 Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity for the year ended 31 December 2014 Retained earnings £’000 Share capital £’000 Share premium account £’000 Treasury shares £’000 Other reserves £’000 Total £’000 21,871 1,096 2,348 (89) 1,235 26,461 2,761 12 (2) – 644 – 3,415 (1,564) – (25) (1,589) 23,697 3,416 12 (2) (1,850) – 1,576 (1,619) – – (1,619) 23,654 – – – – – – – – – – – 1,096 – – – – – – – – – – 1,096 – – – – – – – – – – – 2,348 – – – – – – – – – – 2,348 – – – – – – – – – 48 48 (41) – – – – – – – – (183) (183) (224) – 2,761 (12) 2 37 – (5) 22 – 75 – 75 1,332 – (12) 2 – 17 7 – 193 – 193 1,532 – – 37 644 (5) 3,437 (1,564) 75 23 (1,466) 28,432 3,416 – – (1,850) 17 1,583 (1,619) 193 (183) (1,609) 28,406 Balance at 1 January 2013 Comprehensive Income: Profit for the year Other comprehensive income: Depreciation transfer – gross Depreciation transfer – tax Deferred tax – change in rate Remeasurement of post employment benefit obligations – net of tax Currency translation Total comprehensive income Transactions with owners Dividends relating to 2012 and 2013 (note 12) Share based payment Treasury shares (note 25) Total transactions with owners Balance at 1 January 2014 Comprehensive Income: Profit for the year Other comprehensive income: Depreciation transfer – gross Depreciation transfer – tax Remeasurement of post employment benefit obligations – net of tax Currency translation Total comprehensive income Transactions with owners Dividends relating to 2013 and 2014 (note 12) Share based payment Treasury shares (note 25) Total transactions with owners Balance at 31 December 2014 44 Consolidated Cash Flow Statement for the year ended 31 December 2014 Cash flows from operating activities Cash generated from operations (see page 46) Interest received* Interest paid Income tax paid Net cash generated from operating activities Cash flows used in investing activities Purchases of property, plant and equipment Proceeds on disposal of property, plant and equipment Purchases of intangible assets Net cash used in investing activities Cash flows used in financing activities Issue of ordinary shares Purchase of treasury shares Dividends paid Sale of other financial assets Purchase of other financial assets Net cash used in financing activities Net increase in cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year Exchange gain on cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year 2014 £’000 6,903 76 (5) (688) 6,286 (2,238) 57 (42) (2,223) – (183) (1,619) 1,000 (1,500) (2,302) 1,761 7,199 1 8,961 2013 £’000 4,573 92 (12) (679) 3,974 (979) 101 (353) (1,231) 75 (52) (1,564) 500 (1,000) (2,041) 702 6,497 – 7,199 * Conventionally interest received is included under the heading ‘Investing activities’, however the Directors believe that as the Group holds cash in support of operating activities it should be disclosed as part of cash generated from operating activities. 45 Reconciliation of Operating Profit to Net Cash Inflow from Operating Activities Continuing operating activities Operating profit Adjustments for: Depreciation and amortisation Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment Charge for share based payments Difference between pension service cost and contributions (see note 23) Changes in working capital: Inventory Trade and other receivables Trade and other payables Net cash inflow from operations 2014 £’000 2013 £’000 4,249 3,371 1,627 10 193 (672) 495 338 663 6,903 1,596 11 75 (1,344) 1,108 (1,244) 1,000 4,573 46 Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2014 1 Summary of significant accounting policies The consolidated financial statements of Churchill China plc have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union (IFRSs as adopted by the EU) and the Companies Act 2006 applicable to companies reporting under IFRS. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, as modified by the revaluation of land and buildings, available-for-sale financial assets, and financial assets and financial liabilities (including derivative instruments) at fair value through profit or loss. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also requires management to exercise its judgement in the process of applying the Group’s accounting policies. The areas involving a higher degree of judgement or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant to the consolidated financial statements are disclosed in note 3. The principal accounting policies applied in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements are set out below. These policies have been consistently applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated. Going concern After making enquiries, the Directors have a reasonable expectation that the Group and the Company have adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. The Group and the Company therefore continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing their consolidated financial statements. Changes in accounting policy and disclosures (a) New and amended standards adopted by the Group The following standards have been adopted by the Group for the first time for the financial year beginning on 1 January 2014 and have a material impact on the Group: IFRS 12, ‘Disclosures of interests in other entities’ includes the disclosure requirements for all forms of interests in other entities, including joint arrangements, associates, structured entities and other off balance sheet vehicles. Other standards, amendments and interpretations which are effective for the financial year beginning on 1 January 2014 are not material to the Group. (b) New standards and interpretations not yet adopted A number of new standards and amendments to standards and interpretations are effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2014, and have not been applied in preparing these consolidated financial statements. None of these are expected to have a significant effect on the consolidated financial statements of the Group, except the following set out below: IFRS 9, ‘Financial instruments’, addresses the classification, measurement and recognition of financial assets and financial liabilities. The complete version of IFRS 9 was issued in July 2014. It replaces the guidance in IAS 39 that relates to the classification and measurement of financial instruments. IFRS 9 retains but simplifies the mixed measurement model and establishes three primary measurement categories for financial assets: amortised cost, fair value through OCI and fair value through P&L. The basis of classification depends on the entity’s business model and the contractual cash flow characteristics of the financial asset. The standard is effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2018.The Group does not believe IFRS 9 will have a material impact. IFRS 15, ‘Revenue from contracts with customers’ deals with revenue recognition and establishes principles for reporting useful information to users of financial statements about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from an entity’s contracts with customers. The standard replaces IAS 18 ‘Revenue’. The standard is effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2017. The Group is assessing the impact of IFRS 15. There are no other IFRSs or IFRIC interpretations that are not yet effective that would be expected to have a material impact on the Group. 47 Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) 1 Summary of significant accounting policies (continued) Basis of consolidation The consolidated financial statements of Churchill China plc include the results of the Company, its subsidiaries and associate company. The financial statements of each undertaking in the Group are prepared to the balance sheet date under UK GAAP. Subsidiaries and associates accounting policies are amended, where necessary, to ensure consistency with the Group accounting policies under IFRS. (a) Subsidiaries Subsidiaries are all entities over which the Group has the power to govern the financial and operating policies generally accompanying a shareholding of more than one half of the voting rights. The existence and effect of potential voting rights that are currently exercisable or convertible are considered when assessing whether the Group controls another entity. Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control is transferred to the Group. They are de- consolidated from the date that control ceases. The acquisition method of accounting is used to account for the purchase of subsidiaries by the Group. The cost of an acquisition is measured as the fair value of the assets given, equity instruments issued and liabilities incurred or assumed at the date of exchange. Acquisition related costs are expensed as incurred. Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities and contingent liabilities assumed in a business combination are measured initially at their fair values at the acquisition date, irrespective of the extent of any minority interest. The excess of the cost of acquisition over the fair value of the Group’s share of the identifiable net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. If the cost of acquisition is less than the fair value of the net assets of the subsidiary acquired, the difference is recognised directly in the income statement. Inter-company transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between Group companies are eliminated. (b) Associates Associates are all entities over which the Group has significant influence but not control, generally accompanying a shareholding of between 20% and 50% of the voting rights. Investments in associates are accounted for using the equity method of accounting and are initially recognised at cost. The Group’s investment in associates includes goodwill identified on acquisition, net of any accumulated impairment loss. The Group’s share of its associates’ post-acquisition profits or losses is recognised in the income statement and its share of post-acquisition movements in reserves is recognised in reserves. The cumulative post-acquisition movements are adjusted against the carrying amount of the investment. When the Group’s share of losses in an associate equals or exceeds its interest in the associate, including any other unsecured receivables, the Group does not recognise further losses, unless it has incurred obligations or made payments on behalf of the associate. The Group determines at each reporting date whether there is any objective evidence that the investment in the associate is impaired. If this is the case, the Group calculates the impairment as the difference between the recoverable amount of the associate and its carrying value and recognises the amount within ‘share of results of associated company’ in the Income Statement. Unrealised gains on transactions between the Group and its associates are eliminated to the extent of the Group’s interest in the associates. Unrealised losses are also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of an impairment of the asset transferred. Dilution in gains and losses arising in investments in associates are recognised in the Income Statement. 48 1 Summary of significant accounting policies (continued) Segment reporting Operating segments are reported in a way consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating decision maker. The chief operating decision maker, who is responsible for allocating resources and assessing performance of the operating segments has been identified as the Board of Churchill China plc. Income and expenditure arising directly from a business segment are identified to that segment. Income and expenditure arising from central operations which relate to the Group as a whole or cannot reasonably be allocated between segments are classified as unallocated. Revenue Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable and represents amounts receivable for goods provided in the normal course of business, net of discounts, rebates and sales related taxes. Sales of goods are recognised when goods have been delivered and title in those goods has passed. Rebates are recognised at their anticipated level as soon as any liability is expected to arise and are deducted from gross revenue. Interest income is recognised on a time basis by reference to the principal outstanding and at the effective interest rate applicable. Dividend income is recognised when the Group’s right to receive payment has been established. Leases Management review new leases and classify them as operating or finance leases in accordance with the balance of risk and reward between lessee and the lessor. Lease payments made under operating leases are charged to the Income Statement on a straight line basis over the term of the lease. Operating profit and exceptional items Operating profit is stated both before and after the effect of exceptional items but before the Group’s share of results in associate companies, impairment of investment in associate companies, finance income and costs and taxation. The Group has adopted a columnar income statement format which seeks to highlight significant items within the Group results for the period. Such items are considered by the Directors to be exceptional in size and nature rather than being representative of the underlying trading of the Group, and may include such items as restructuring costs, material impairments of non current assets, material profits and losses on the disposal of property, plant and equipment, material increases or reductions in pension scheme costs and material increases or decreases in taxation costs as a result of changes in legislation. The Directors apply judgement in assessing the particular items, which by virtue of their size and nature are separately disclosed in the income statement and notes to the financial statements as “Exceptional items”. The Directors believe that the separate disclosure of these items is relevant in understanding the Group’s financial performance. Dividends Dividends to the Company’s shareholders are recognised as a liability in the Group’s financial statements in the period in which the dividends are paid, following approval by the Company’s shareholders. Interest received/paid Interest received and paid is treated in the cash flow statement as a cash flow from operating activities as this reflects the nature of the Group’s business. 49 Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) 1 Summary of significant accounting policies (continued) Retirement benefit costs The Group operates a defined benefit pension scheme and defined contribution pension schemes. The defined benefit scheme is valued every three years by a professionally qualified independent Actuary. In intervening years, the Actuary reviews the continuing appropriateness of the valuation. Scheme liabilities are measured using the projected unit method and the amount recognised in the balance sheet is the present value of these liabilities at the balance sheet date. The discount rate used to calculate the present value of liabilities is the interest rate attaching to high quality corporate bonds. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the Group and are measured at fair value. The accrual of further benefits under the scheme ceased on 31 March 2006. The regular service cost of providing retirement benefits to employees during the year, together with the cost of any benefits relating to past service and any benefits arising from curtailments, is charged or credited to operating profit in the year. These costs are included within staff costs. A net interest cost on defined benefit plans is included within finance income or cost, based on the discount rate on the net post employment obligation measured at the beginning of the year. The difference between the market value of assets and the present value of accrued pension liabilities is shown as an asset or liability in the balance sheet. Remeasurements of post employment benefit obligations are recognised in the statement of comprehensive income in the year, together with differences arising from changes in actuarial assumptions. Costs associated with defined contribution schemes represent contributions payable by the Group during the year and are charged to the income statement as they fall due. Share based payments Where share options have been issued to employees, the fair value of options at the date of grant is charged to the Income Statement over the period over which the options are expected to vest. The number of ordinary shares expected to vest at each balance sheet date are adjusted to reflect non market vesting conditions such that the total charge recognised over the vesting period reflects the number of options that ultimately vest. Market vesting conditions are reflected within the fair value of the options granted. If the terms and conditions attaching to options are amended before the options vest, any change in the fair value of the options is charged to the Income Statement over the remaining period to the vesting date. National insurance contributions payable by the Company in relation to unapproved share option schemes are provided for on the difference between the share price at the balance sheet date and the exercise price of the option where the share price is higher than the exercise price. Foreign currencies The individual financial statements of each Group company are presented in the currency of the primary economic environment in which the company operates (its functional currency). For the purpose of the consolidated financial statements, the results of each entity are expressed in sterling, which is the presentation currency of the Group and is the presentation currency for the consolidated financial statements. Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency using the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the translation at year end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are recognised in the income statement. Non monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are not retranslated. For the purpose of presenting consolidated financial statements, the assets and liabilities of the Group’s foreign operations are translated at exchange rates prevailing on the balance sheet date. Income and expense items are translated at average exchange rates for the period. Exchange differences arising, if any, are accounted for in other comprehensive income. In order to manage its exposure to certain foreign exchange risks, the Group enters into forward currency contracts (see “Derivative financial instruments” below). 50 1 Summary of significant accounting policies (continued) Derivative financial instruments The Group’s operations expose it to the financial risks of changes in exchange rates. The Group uses forward currency contracts to mitigate this exposure. The Group does not use derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes. Changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments are recognised immediately in the income statement as soon as they arise. Contracts are initially recognised at fair value, gains and losses on all derivatives held at fair value outstanding at a balance sheet date are recognised in the income statement. Hedge accounting is not considered to be appropriate to the above currency risk management techniques and has not been applied. Taxation Income tax expense represents the sum of the current tax and deferred tax. Current tax is based on the taxable profit for the year. The Group’s liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date. Deferred income tax is provided in full, using the liability method, on temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the consolidated financial statements. However, deferred income tax is not accounted for, if it arises from the initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction other than a business combination that at the time of the transaction there is no effect on either accounting or taxable profit or loss. The Group’s liability for deferred tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date or are expected to apply when the related deferred income tax asset is realised or deferred income tax liability is settled. Deferred income tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences can be utilised. Deferred tax assets and liabilities may be set off against each other provided there is a legal right to do so and it is managements’ intention to do so. Property, plant and equipment Property, plant and equipment is shown at cost, net of accumulated depreciation, as adjusted for the revaluation of certain land and buildings. Depreciation is calculated so as to write off the cost, less any provision for impairment, of plant, property and equipment, less their estimated residual values over the expected useful economic lives of the assets concerned. The principal annual rates used for this purpose are: Freehold buildings Plant Motor vehicles Fixtures and fittings % 2 on cost or valuation 10-25 on cost 25 on reducing net book value 25-33 on cost Freehold land is not depreciated. The assets’ residual values and useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at each balance sheet date. An asset’s carrying amount is written down immediately to its recoverable amount if the asset’s carrying amount is greater than its estimated recoverable amounts. 51 Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) 1 Summary of significant accounting policies (continued) Intangible assets Intangible assets, which comprise computer software, are shown at cost net of accumulated amortisation. Amortisation is calculated so as to write off the cost, less any provision for impairment, of intangible assets, less their estimated residual values over the expected useful economic lives of the assets concerned. The principal annual rate used for this purpose is: Computer software The Group has no goodwill. % 33 on cost Impairment of non financial assets At each reporting date the Directors assess whether there is any indication that an asset may be impaired. If any such indicator exists the Group tests for impairment by estimating the recoverable amount of the asset. If the recoverable amount is less than the carrying value of an asset an impairment loss is required. In addition to this, assets with indefinite lives are tested for impairment at least annually. The recoverable amount is measured as the higher of net realisable value or value in use. Non financial assets other than goodwill that have suffered an impairment are reviewed for possible reversal of the impairment at each reporting date. Inventories Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost is determined on a first in first out basis and includes, where appropriate, direct materials, direct labour, overheads incurred in bringing inventories to their present location and condition and transport and handling costs. Net realisable value is the estimated selling cost less all further costs to sale. Provision is made where necessary for obsolete, slow moving and defective inventories. Available for sale financial assets Available for sale financial assets are non derivatives that are either designated in this category or not classified to any of the other financial asset categories. They are included in non current assets unless the Directors intend to dispose of the investment within twelve months of the balance sheet date. At each reporting date the Directors assess whether there is an indication an asset may be impaired. If any such indicator exists the Group tests for impairment by estimating the recoverable amount of the asset. If the recoverable amount is less than the carrying value of an asset an impairment loss is required. Trade receivables Trade receivables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less provision for impairment. A provision for impairment is established where there is objective evidence that the Group will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original terms of the receivables. The amount of the provision is the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows, discounted at the original effective interest rate. Trade receivables are as defined under IAS 39. Other financial assets Other receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market. They are included in current assets, except for maturities greater than twelve months after the end of the reporting period. These are classified as non current assets. Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents includes cash in hand, deposits held on call with banks, other short term highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Cash and cash equivalents are as defined under IAS 39. 52 1 Summary of significant accounting policies (continued) Non current assets held for sale Non current assets are classified as being held for sale when their value is expected to be recovered through disposal rather than continuing usage within the business and when the future sale is considered to be highly probable. Management must be committed to sale which should be expected to be completed to qualify for recognition as a completed sale within one year from the date of classification. Non current assets are measured at the lower of carrying value and fair value less disposal costs, and are no longer depreciated. Provisions Provisions are recognised when (i) the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of past events, (ii) it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation and (iii) the amount has been reliably estimated. The Directors estimate the amount of provisions required to settle any obligation at the balance sheet date. Provisions are discounted to their present value where the effect would be material. Parent Company significant accounting policies The Company financial statements are prepared under UK GAAP. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention in accordance with the Companies Act 2006 and applicable accounting standards in the United Kingdom. The principal accounting policies applied in the preparation of the Company financial statements are set out below. These policies have been consistently applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated. Fixed asset investments Fixed asset investments, comprising investments in subsidiary and associated companies, are stated at cost less any provisions for impairment. Where an event has occurred that gives rise to doubt about the recovery of the carrying value an impairment assessment is made. The impairment is calculated by comparing the investments carrying value to the recoverable amount as required by FRS 11 ‘Impairment of fixed assets and goodwill’. Other Policies in relation to dividends and share based payments are the same as the Group accounting policies. 2 Financial risk management Financial risk factors The Group’s activities expose it to a variety of financial risks; market risk (including currency risk, fair value interest rate risk, cash flow interest rate risk), credit risk, price risk and liquidity risk. The Group’s overall risk management programme focuses on the unpredictability of financial markets and seeks to minimise potential adverse effects on the Group’s financial performance. The Group uses derivative financial instruments to manage certain risk exposures. Financial risk management is carried out by the finance department under policies approved by the Board of Directors. (a) Market risk (i) Currency risk The Group operates internationally and is exposed to foreign exchange risk arising from various currency exposures, primarily in relation to the US dollar and Euro. Foreign exchange risk arises from future commercial transactions, recognised assets and liabilities and net investments in foreign operations. The Group’s treasury risk management policy is to secure all of the contractually certain cash flows (mainly export sales and the purchase of inventory) and to review likely forward exposures in each major currency. Contractual certainty is considered to be where the Group has received a firm sales order or placed a firm purchase order. At 31 December 2014, if sterling had weakened / strengthened by 5% against the US dollar with all other variables held constant, post tax profit for the year would have been £4,000 (2013: £26,000) higher / lower, mainly as a result of foreign exchange gains / losses on translation of US dollar denominated trade payables and cash balances. Equity would have been a further £14,000 (2013: £13,000) lower / higher mainly as a result of differences in the translation of US dollar investments in subsidiary undertakings. If sterling had weakened / strengthened by 5% against the Euro with all other variables held constant, post tax profit for the year would have been £4,000 (2013: £4,000) higher / lower, mainly as a result of foreign exchange gains / losses on translation of Euro denominated trade receivables and cash balances. There would have been no substantial other changes in Equity. 53 Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) 2 Financial risk management (continued) (ii) Cash flow and fair value interest rate risk The Group holds significant interest bearing assets and its finance income and operating cash flows are linked to changes in market interest rates. The Group has no significant short or long term borrowings. The Group identifies cash balances in excess of short and medium term working capital requirements (see liquidity risk) and invests these balances in short and medium term money market deposits. At 31 December 2014, had the interest rates achieved been 0.1% higher / lower with all other variables held constant then post tax profit for the year would have been £7,000 (2013: £4,000) higher / lower. Other components of equity would have been unchanged. (b) Credit risk Credit risk is managed on a Group basis. Credit risk arises from cash and cash equivalents, other financial assets and credit exposures including outstanding trade receivables and committed transactions. For banks with which the Group places balances on deposit, only independently rated parties with a minimum rating of ‘A-’ are accepted. Cash and cash equivalents are as follows: Lloyds Bank plc Royal Bank of Scotland plc Santander UK plc Other Other financial assets are as follows: Lloyds Banking Group plc Credit rating A A A Min A Credit rating A 2014 £’000 7,156 767 755 283 8,961 2014 £’000 1,500 1,500 2013 £’000 5,979 762 253 205 7,199 2013 £’000 1,000 1,000 Risk attached to the receipt of UK trade receivables is largely controlled through the assessment of the credit quality of each customer, taking into account its financial position, past experience and third party credit information. Risks attaching to export trade receivables are controlled through the use of export credit insurance and confirmed letters of credit. Where these cannot be obtained the credit control department assesses the credit quality of the customer, taking into account its financial position, past experience and other factors. The Group manages its debt position and considers it is in a position of having limited credit risk (see note 19). (c) Price risk As explained in the Directors’ report, the Group results are affected by changes in market prices. The risk attached to this is managed by close relationships with suppliers and ongoing product development. (d) Liquidity risk Prudent liquidity risk management implies maintaining sufficient cash and available funding through committed credit facilities. Liquidity risk is managed on a Group basis with expected cash flows being monitored against current cash and cash equivalents and committed borrowing facilities. The Group has no long term borrowing and funds its operations from its own cash reserves and the Directors do not consider there to be significant liquidity risk. All liabilities are generally due within three months. 54 2 Financial risk management (continued) Capital risk management The Group’s objectives when managing capital are to safeguard the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern, to provide finance for the long term development of the business and to generate returns for shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders in the business. In order to maintain or adjust the capital structure, the Group may adjust the amount of dividends paid to shareholders, return capital to shareholders, issue new shares or sell assets to reduce debt. The Group currently has no debt. Fair value estimation The carrying value less impairment provision of trade and other receivables and trade and other payables are assumed to approximate their fair values. 3 Critical accounting estimates and judgements Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. The Group makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates will, by definition, seldom equal the related actual results. The estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amount of assets and liabilities are discussed below. (a) Net realisable value of excess inventories: The Group identifies inventory where it is believed that the quantity held is in excess of that which may be realised at normal price levels. The realisable value of this inventory is assessed taking into account the estimated sales price less further costs of sale. If the estimated net realisable value of excess inventories were to be 10% higher or lower than management’s estimates the value of this provision would change by £240,000 (2013: £202,000). (b) Pension benefits: The present value of the pension obligations depend on a number of factors that are determined on an actuarial basis using a number of assumptions. The assumptions used in determining the net cost or income for pensions include the discount rate. Any changes in these assumptions will impact the carrying amount of pension obligations. The Group determines the appropriate discount rate at the end of each year. This is the interest rate that should be used to determine the present value of estimated future cash outflows expected to be required to settle the pension obligations. In determining the appropriate discount rate the Group considers the interest rates of 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. Other key assumptions for pension obligations are based in part on current market conditions. Additional information is disclosed in note 23. (c) Recognition of deferred tax assets: The Group reassesses each year whether it is appropriate to recognise the deferred tax assets in the financial statements based upon the likelihood that the assets can be recovered. The assessment is based on the expected reversal of temporary timing differences. 55 Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) 4 Segmental analysis Management has determined the operating segments are based on the reports reviewed by the Chief Operating Decision Maker and the Strategic Steering Committee of the Board that are used to make strategic decisions. The Board considers the business primarily based on the market and product groups, but also from a geographic perspective. Geographically, management considers the performance in relation to the UK, rest of Europe, North America and Rest of the World. The reportable operating product segments derive their revenue primarily from the sale of ceramic products to the Retail and Hospitality sectors. The Board assesses the performance of the operating segments based on the measure of operating profit, as analysed in the management accounts. This measurement basis excludes the effects of non-recurring expenditure from the operating segments such as restructuring costs and goodwill impairments when the impairment is the result of an isolated, non-recurring event. The measure also excludes the effects of equity-settled share-based payments and unrealised gains/losses on financial instruments. Interest income and expenditure are not allocated to segments, as this type of activity is driven by the central treasury function, which manages the cash position of the Group. (a) Primary reporting format – business segments The business is managed in two main business segments, Hospitality and Retail. Revenue from external customers Contribution to Group overheads excluding depreciation and amortisation Depreciation and amortisation Operating profit Share of results of associate company Finance income Finance cost Profit before income tax Revenue from external customers Contribution to Group overheads excluding depreciation and amortisation Depreciation and amortisation Operating profit Share of results of associate company Finance income Finance cost Profit before income tax Hospitality £’000 35,999 7,779 (1,190) 6,589 Hospitality £’000 32,753 6,188 (1,133) 5,055 31 December 2014 Retail £’000 8,519 1,183 (224) 959 Unallocated £’000 – (3,086) (213) (3,299) 31 December 2013 Retail £’000 10,404 1,493 (259) 1,234 Unallocated £’000 – (2,714) (204) (2,918) Group £’000 44,518 5,876 (1,627) 4,249 116 76 (124) 4,317 Group £’000 43,157 4,967 (1,596) 3,371 116 92 (209) 3,370 The ‘Unallocated’ Group overheads principally comprise costs associated with the centralised functions of the Company Board, finance and administration and information technology. There are no material inter-segment revenues (2013: £nil). Any inter segment revenues are carried out on an arm’s length basis. Revenue from external parties is measured in a manner consistent with the consolidated income statement. 56 4 Segmental analysis (continued) Segment assets consist primarily of property, plant and equipment, inventories, trade and other receivables. Unallocated assets comprise intangible assets, investment in associates, available-for-sale financial assets, deferred taxation and cash and cash equivalents. Segment liabilities comprise trade and other payables specific to operating segments. Unallocated liabilities comprise items such as trade and other payables, current taxation, deferred taxation and retirement benefit obligations. Capital expenditure comprises additions to property, plant and equipment (note 13) and intangible assets (note 14). Segment assets and liabilities at 31 December 2014 and capital expenditure for the year ended on that date are as follows: Assets excluding inventories Inventories Investment in associates Total assets Total liabilities Capital expenditure Hospitality £’000 16,277 6,009 – 22,286 5,353 1,711 Retail £’000 3,920 2,265 – 6,185 646 60 Unallocated £’000 13,957 – 1,096 15,053 Group £’000 34,154 8,274 1,096 43,524 9,119 15,118 218 1,989 Segment assets and liabilities at 31 December 2013 and capital expenditure for the year ended on that date are as follows: Assets excluding inventories Inventories Investment in associates Total assets Total liabilities Capital expenditure Hospitality £’000 15,807 6,195 – 22,002 4,380 1,032 Retail £’000 4,448 2,574 – 7,022 929 35 Unallocated £’000 11,306 – 980 12,286 Group £’000 31,561 8,769 980 41,310 7,569 12,878 432 1,499 (b) Secondary reporting format – geographical segments The Group’s two business segments operate in four main geographical segments, even though they are managed on a worldwide basis. Geographical segment – Revenue United Kingdom Rest of Europe North America Rest of the World 2014 £’000 26,861 10,056 3,683 3,918 44,518 2013 £’000 26,477 8,956 3,813 3,911 43,157 The total assets of the business are allocated as follows: United Kingdom £42,827,000 (2013: £40,751,000), Rest of Europe £46,000 (2013: £70,000), North America £651,000 (2013: £489,000), Rest of the World £nil (2013: £nil). Capital expenditure was made as follows: United Kingdom £1,989,000 (2013: £1,499,000). 57 Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) 5 Expenses by nature Changes in inventories of finished goods and work in progress Raw materials used Purchase of goods for resale Employee benefit expense (note 7) Other external charges Depreciation and amortisation charges Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment Foreign exchange losses Total cost of sales, distribution costs and administrative expenses 2014 £’000 493 3,329 5,986 16,518 12,301 1,627 10 5 40,269 2013 £’000 1,119 2,872 6,918 15,844 11,397 1,596 11 29 39,786 6 Average number of people employed The average monthly number of persons (including Executive Directors) employed by the Group during the year was: By activity Production and warehousing Sales and administration The Company had no employees (2013: none). 7 Employee benefit expense Staff costs (for the employees shown in note 6) Wages and salaries Social security costs Defined contribution pension cost (see note 23) Other pension costs (see note 23) Share options granted to directors and employees (see note 24) 2014 Number 2013 Number 348 191 539 339 196 535 2014 £’000 14,305 1,327 526 167 193 16,518 2013 £’000 13,918 1,194 475 182 75 15,844 Directors’ emoluments The statutory disclosures for Directors’ emoluments, being the aggregate emoluments, the aggregate amount of gains made by Directors on the exercise of share options and the amount of money receivable by Directors under long term incentive plans in respect of qualifying services have been included within the Remuneration Report. In addition statutory disclosures in respect of the number of Directors to whom retirement benefits are accruing is disclosed. Company The Company did not make any payments to employees (2013: nil). 58 8 Finance income and costs Interest income on cash and cash equivalents Finance income Interest on defined benefit schemes (note 23) Other interest Finance costs Net finance cost 9 Auditors’ remuneration During the year the Group obtained the following services from the Company’s auditor: Fees payable to the Company’s auditor for the audit of the Company and consolidated financial statements (Company £3,000, 2013: £2,000) Additional fees payable to the Company’s auditor for other services: The audit of the Company’s subsidiaries Other services Total fees payable to the Group’s auditors 10 Income tax expense Group Current tax – current year – adjustment in respect of prior periods Deferred tax (note 22) Reversal of temporary differences Income tax expense 2014 £’000 76 76 (119) (5) (124) (48) 2013 £’000 92 92 (197) (12) (209) (117) 2014 £’000 2013 £’000 7 73 2 82 2014 £’000 935 (113) 822 79 901 7 67 – 74 2013 £’000 689 (94) 595 14 609 The Finance Act 2013 was substantively enacted on 17 July 2013 and includes legislation to reduce the main rate of Corporation Tax from 21 to 20% from 1 April 2015. Deferred tax balances have been re-measured accordingly. The tax on the Group’s profit before tax differs from the theoretical amount that would arise using the weighted average tax rate applicable to profit of the consolidated entities as follows: Profit before income tax Tax calculated at domestic tax rates applicable to profits in the respective countries Expenses not deductible for tax purposes Adjustment in respect of prior periods Change in tax rate Treatment of tax on share of profit of associate company Other Tax charge The weighted average applicable tax rate was 21.5% (2013: 23.25%). 2014 £’000 4,317 928 16 (113) – (24) 94 901 2013 £’000 3,370 783 13 (94) (149) 35 21 609 During the year a credit of £463,000 (2013: charge of £349,000) in relation to deferred tax arising from actuarial gains and losses on the Group’s defined benefit pension obligation and a credit of £nil (2013: £37,000) in relation to the reversal of deferred taxation on the revaluation of land and buildings were adjusted directly within equity. 59 Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) 11 Earnings per ordinary share The basic earnings per ordinary share is based on the profit after income tax and on 10,934,908 (2013: 10,939,808) ordinary shares, being the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue during the year. Basic earnings per share (Based on earnings £3,416,000 (2013: £2,761,000)) 2014 Pence per share 2013 Pence per share 31.2 25.2 Diluted earnings per ordinary share is based on the profit after income tax and on 11,105,668 (2013: 11,076,099) ordinary shares, being the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue during the year of 10,934,908 (2013: 10,939,808) increased by 170,760 (2013: 136,291) shares, being the weighted average number of ordinary shares which would have been issued if the outstanding options to acquire shares in the Group had been exercised at the average share price during the year. Diluted basic earnings per share (Based on earnings £3,416,000 (2013: £2,761,000)) 12 Dividends The dividends paid in the year were as follows: Ordinary Final dividend 2013 9.7p (Final dividend 2012: 9.4p) per 10p ordinary share Interim 2014 5.1p per 10p ordinary share paid (Interim 2013: 4.9p) 2014 Pence per share 2013 Pence per share 30.8 24.9 2014 £’000 1,062 557 1,619 2013 £’000 1,027 537 1,564 The Directors now recommend payment of the following dividend: Ordinary dividend: Final dividend 2014 11.0p (2013: 9.7p) per 10p ordinary share 1,200 1,062 Dividends on treasury shares held by the Company are waived. 60 13 Property, plant and equipment The Company has no property, plant and equipment (2013: none). Details of those relating to the Group are as follows: Group At 1 January 2013 Cost Accumulated depreciation Net book amount Year ended 31 December 2013 Opening net book amount Additions Disposals Transfers Depreciation charge Closing net book amount At 31 December 2013 Cost Accumulated depreciation Net book amount Year ended 31 December 2014 Opening net book amount Additions Disposals Reclassification – Intangible assets Depreciation charge Closing net book amount At 31 December 2014 Cost Accumulated depreciation Net book amount Freehold land and buildings £’000 12,445 (2,111) 10,334 10,334 9 – (58) (193) 10,092 12,395 (2,303) 10,092 10,092 340 – – (251) 10,181 12,734 (2,553) 10,181 Plant £’000 17,997 (14,897) 3,100 3,100 794 (51) 58 (1,030) 2,871 18,754 (15,883) 2,871 2,871 1,354 – – (1,022) 3,203 19,669 (16,466) 3,203 Motor vehicles £’000 Fixtures and fittings £’000 861 (347) 514 514 252 (61) – (161) 544 924 (380) 544 544 186 (67) – (149) 514 907 (393) 514 2,656 (2,442) 214 214 82 – – (136) 160 2,738 (2,578) 160 160 75 – 301 (176) 360 2,641 (2,281) 360 Total £’000 33,959 (19,797) 14,162 14,162 1,137 (112) – (1,520) 13,667 34,811 (21,144) 13,667 13,667 1,955 (67) 301 (1,598) 14,258 35,951 (21,693) 14,258 61 Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) 14 Intangible assets The Company has no intangible assets (2013: none). Details of these relating to the Group are as follows: Group At 1 January 2013 Cost Accumulated amortisation Net book amount Year ended 31 December 2013 Opening net book amount Additions Amortisation charge Closing net book amount At 31 December 2013 Cost Accumulated amortisation Net book amount Year ended 31 December 2014 Opening net book amount Additions Reclassification – Property, plant and equipment Amortisation charge Closing net book amount At 31 December 2014 Cost Accumulated amortisation Net book amount Computer software £’000 901 (828) 73 73 362 (76) 359 1,263 (904) 359 359 34 (301) (29) 63 842 (779) 63 During the year certain information technology assets were reclassified as property, plant and equipment. 62 15 Investment in associate Cost At 1 January Share of profit At 31 December Impairment At 1 January Impairment of investment in associate At 31 December Net book value Closing net book amount Group Company 2014 £’000 1,408 116 1,524 428 – 428 1,096 2013 £’000 1,277 131 1,408 413 15 428 980 2014 £’000 2013 £’000 355 – 355 – – – 355 – 355 – – – 355 355 The investment in associate represents a holding of 34.4% of the issued £1 ordinary shares of Furlong Mills Limited, a company registered in England, whose principal activity is that of a potter’s miller. Share of associate’s assets Share of associate’s liabilities Share of associate’s net assets 2014 £’000 2,053 (480) 1,573 2013 £’000 1,805 (348) 1,457 The total revenue of Furlong Mills Limited for its year ended 31 December 2014 was £7,857,000 (2013: £7,040,000) and profit before tax was £878,000 (2013: £652,000). During the year the Group purchased raw materials to a value of £2,327,000 (2013: £2,007,000) from Furlong Mills Limited. Amounts owed to Furlong Mills Limited at 31 December 2014 were £141,000 (2013: £115,000) (see note 21). The difference between the carrying value of the Group’s interest in associate and the share of associate’s net assets represents an impairment charged in the Group’s accounts and adjustments in relation to accounting policies. This impairment reflects the Board’s view of the recoverable amount of the investment calculated using a discounted cash flow model. Expected cash flows from the investment have been discounted at a rate of 6.2% (2013: 5.6%). In the Group’s consolidated financial statements the investment is accounted for on the equity basis. Within the Company’s accounts the investment is shown at historic cost. 63 Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) 16 Investment in subsidiaries Company Cost or valuation At 1 January and 31 December Impairment At 1 January and 31 December Net book value At 31 December 2014 £’000 2013 £’000 2,627 2,627 432 432 2,195 2,195 Interests in Group undertakings Interests in Group undertakings comprise the cost of investments in subsidiary undertakings. The principal operating subsidiaries of the Group are as follows: Name of company Churchill China (UK) Limited Country of incorporation England and Wales Churchill Ceramics (UK) Limited England and Wales James Broadhurst & Sons Limited England and Wales Description of shares held Ordinary Ordinary Ordinary Churchill China, Inc USA Ordinary Proportion of nominal value of issued shares held 100% 100% 100% 100% Principal activity Manufacture and sale of ceramic and related products Provision of management and property services within the Group Provision of management and property services within the Group Sale of ceramic and related products Certain dormant companies within the Group are not included in the above analysis. The Directors believe the carrying value of subsidiaries is supported by their underlying net asset values. 64 17 Available for sale financial assets Fair value / Cost At 1 January and 31 December 2014 Impairment At 1 January and 31 December 2014 Fair value / Net book value At 1 January and 31 December 2014 Group Company Available for sale financial assets £’000 Other investments £’000 – – – 43 43 – The above represents 35.9% (2013: 35.9%) of the issued ordinary share capital of Shraff Management Limited, a company registered in England and Wales. The Directors do not consider that the investment in Shraff Management Limited should be accounted for as an associate as Churchill China plc is not in a position to and does not exercise significant influence over Shraff Management Limited, taking into account other large third party shareholdings. 18 Inventories The Company has no inventory (2013: none). Details of inventory relating to the Group are as follows: Raw materials Work in progress Finished goods 2014 £’000 55 495 7,724 8,274 2013 £’000 57 506 8,206 8,769 The Directors do not consider there is a material difference between the carrying value and replacement cost of inventories. The potential impact of changes in the net realisable value of inventories is shown in note 3. The cost of inventories recognised as an expense and included in the income statements amounted to £24,476,000 (2013: £24,412,000). 65 Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) 19 Trade and other receivables Trade receivables Less: provision for impairment of trade receivables Trade receivables – net Prepayments Receivables from related parties (note 29) Less non-current portion: loans to related parties Current portion Group Company 2014 £’000 8,282 (385) 7,897 358 – 8,255 – 8,255 2013 £’000 8,750 (487) 8,263 308 – 8,571 – 8,571 2014 £’000 – – – – 5,310 5,310 5,136 174 2013 £’000 – – – – 5,474 5,474 5,310 164 All non current receivables are due within five years from the balance sheet date. The Group operates a credit risk management policy. Risk attached to the receipt of UK trade receivables is largely controlled through the assessment of the credit quality of each customer, taking into account its financial position, past experience and third party credit information. Risks attaching to export trade receivables are controlled through the use of export credit insurance and confirmed letters of credit. Where these cannot be obtained the credit control department assesses the credit quality of the customer, taking into account its financial position, past experience and other factors. Trade receivables that are less than three months past due and not covered by insurance arrangements are not considered impaired unless there is specific evidence to the contrary. As of 31 December 2014, trade receivables of £6,313,000 (2013: £7,404,000) were fully performing. As of 31 December 2014, trade receivables of £531,000 (2013: £758,000) were past due but not impaired. The ageing of these receivables is as follows: Up to 3 months 3 to 6 months Over 6 months 2014 £’000 522 5 4 531 2013 £’000 727 28 3 758 As of 31 December 2014 trade receivables with a gross value of £1,438,000 (2013: £571,000) were impaired and provided for. The amount of provision for 31 December 2014 was £385,000 (2013: £487,000). The individually impaired receivables relate to customers which are in unexpectedly difficult economic conditions. It was assessed that a portion of the receivables is expected to be recovered. The ageing of these receivables is as follows: Up to 3 months 3 to 6 months Over 6 months 2014 £’000 1,435 – 3 1,438 2013 £’000 548 8 15 571 The Directors consider that the carrying value of trade and other receivables is approximate to their fair value. 66 19 Trade and other receivables (continued) Movements on the Group provision for impairment of trade receivables are as follows: At 1 January Provision for receivables impairment Written off during the year At 31 December 2014 £’000 487 (87) (15) 385 2013 £’000 427 104 (44) 487 The creation and release of provision for impaired receivables has been included in ‘other external charges’ in the income statement (note 5). Amounts charged to the allowance account are generally written off, when there is no expectation of recovering additional cash. Other receivables within trade and other receivables also include impaired assets. The recoverability of certain loans receivable to a total value of £7,000 (2013: £7,000) has been reviewed and an impairment provision of £7,000 (2013: £7,000) established. The charge associated with the creation of this provision has been included in ‘other external charges’ in the income statement (note 5). The carrying amounts of the Group’s trade and other receivables are denominated in the following currencies: Pounds Euros US dollars 2014 £’000 6,276 1,188 791 8,255 2013 £’000 7,088 1,001 482 8,571 During the year the Group realised losses of £14,000 (2013: £29,000) on settled forward option contracts that have been recognised in the Income Statement and as at 31 December held forward exchange contracts for the sale of Euro of £793,000 (2013: £588,000) and the sale of US dollars of £248,000 (2013: £nil). These contracts are held at their fair value with a gain of £8,000 (2013: gain of £5,000) recognised in relation to the contracts outstanding at the year end. Company As of 31 December 2014, Company receivables of £nil (2013: £nil) were fully performing. Amounts receivable are repayable in accordance with agreed terms. No interest is chargeable. Other receivables of £nil (2013: £nil) gross were impaired and provided for. The amount of this provision at 31 December 2014 was £nil (2013: £nil). Interest is chargeable on these receivables. The carrying amounts of the Company’s receivables are denominated in the following currencies: Pounds US dollars 2014 £’000 5,245 65 5,310 2013 £’000 5,419 55 5,474 67 Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) 20 Other financial assets Other receivables Group Company 2014 £’000 1,500 2013 £’000 1,000 2014 £’000 – 2013 £’000 – Other receivables represent term deposits made with banks not classed as cash and cash equivalents with maturities of less than one year as at the balance sheet date. The deposits are not impaired. 21 Trade and other payables Trade payables Amounts due to related parties Social security and other taxes Accrued expenses Group Company 2014 £’000 2,174 141 1,361 5,000 8,676 2013 £’000 2,379 115 1,218 4,586 8,298 2014 £’000 – 13 92 1 106 2013 £’000 – 13 14 1 28 All the above liabilities mature within twelve months from 31 December 2014. 22 Deferred income tax Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when the deferred income taxes relate to the same fiscal authority. The offset amounts are as follows: Group Deferred tax assets: – Deferred tax asset to be recovered after more than 12 months – Deferred tax asset to be recovered within 12 months Deferred tax liabilities: – Deferred tax liabilities to be recovered after more than 12 months – Deferred tax liabilities to be recovered within 12 months 2014 £’000 1,078 39 1,117 (1,028) (42) (1,070) 2013 £’000 609 156 765 (1,063) (39) (1,102) Deferred tax asset / (liability) (net) 47 (337) The net movement on the deferred income tax account is as follows: At 1 January Income statement charge (note 10) Tax credits relating to components of comprehensive income Tax credited / (charged) directly to equity (note 27) At 31 December 2014 £’000 (337) (79) – 463 47 2013 £’000 (11) (14) 37 (349) (337) 68 22 Deferred income tax (continued) The movement in deferred income tax assets and liabilities during the year, without taking into consideration the offsetting of balances within the same tax jurisdiction, is as follows: Deferred tax liabilities At 1 January 2013 Credited to the income statement Credited to other comprehensive income At 31 December 2013 Credited to the income statement At 31 December 2014 At 1 January 2013 (Credited) / charged to the income statement Charged directly to equity At 31 December 2013 Charged / (credited) to the income statement Credited directly to equity At 31 December 2014 Accelerated tax depreciation £'000 Land and buildings revaluation £'000 1,019 (155) – 864 (30) 834 Accelerated tax depreciation £'000 Retirement benefit obligation £'000 (107) (22) – (129) 20 – (109) (1,162) 230 349 (583) 111 (463) (935) 277 (2) (37) 238 (2) 236 Other £'000 (16) (37) – (53) (20) – (73) Total £'000 1,296 (157) (37) 1,102 (32) 1,070 Total £'000 (1,285) 171 349 (765) 111 (463) (1,117) The deferred income tax (credited to) / charged to equity during the past year is as follows: Fair value reserves in shareholders’ equity: Tax on re-measurement of defined pension benefits 2014 £’000 2013 £’000 (463) 349 Deferred income tax of £2,000 (2013: £2,000) was transferred from other reserves (note 26) to retained earnings (note 27). This represents deferred tax on the difference between the actual depreciation on buildings and the equivalent depreciation based on the historical cost of buildings. Deferred income tax assets are recognised for tax losses carried forward to the extent that the realisation of the related tax benefit through the future taxable profits is probable. The Group has not recognised deferred income tax assets of £1,079,000 (2013: £1,079,000) in respect of capital losses amounting to £5,395,000 (2013: £5,395,000) that can be carried forward against future capital gains. Company Deferred tax assets of £61,000 (2013: £8,000) are recognised relating to short term timing differences. 69 Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) 23 Retirement benefit obligations Balance sheet obligations Pension benefits Income statement charge Pension benefits Finance costs 2014 £’000 2013 £’000 4,674 2,914 693 119 657 197 The Group operates three principal pension schemes; a funded pension scheme, the Churchill Group Retirement Benefit Scheme, providing benefits based on final pensionable salary which was closed to new entrants in 1999 and to which the accrual of future benefits ceased on 31 March 2006, the Churchill China 1999 Pension Scheme and the Churchill China 2006 Group Personal Pension Plan. Both of the latter schemes are defined contribution schemes providing benefits based on contributions paid. The assets of the schemes are held separately from those of the Group. The total pension cost for the Group was £693,000 (2013: £657,000). Of this cost £nil (2013: £nil), related to the Churchill Group Retirement Benefit Scheme, £249,000 (2013: £220,000) was in respect of the Churchill China 1999 Pension Scheme, £257,000 (2013: £251,000) was in respect of the Churchill China 2006 Group Personal Pension Scheme and £19,000 (2013: £4,000) was in respect of UK Auto Enrolment schemes. The balance of cost was incurred in respect of overseas and other pension arrangements. At the year end amounts due to pension funds in respect of Company contributions were £26,000 (2013: £23,000). No contributions have been made to the Churchill Group Retirement Benefit Scheme in relation to current service since the date of cessation of the future accrual of benefits on 31 March 2006. Prior to that date the Group paid contributions to the Scheme at a rate of 13.6% of pensionable salary. In addition a contribution of £672,000 (2013: £1,344,000) was made in respect of the amortisation of past service liabilities. This payment represented an additional payment of £672,000 made in December 2014, accelerating the 2015 annual amortisation payment. The forward funding rate of the Scheme was agreed with the Scheme Trustees and Actuary following the completion of the 31 May 2014 triennial actuarial valuation in January 2015. The Group expects to make payments of £715,000 per annum in respect of the amortisation of past service deficits. The next triennial actuarial valuation is scheduled for commencement at 31 May 2017. Future amortisation payments will be assessed following completion of that valuation. The amounts recognised in the balance sheet are determined as follows: Present value of funded obligations Fair value of plan assets Liability in balance sheet The movement in the present value of defined benefit obligation over the year is as follows: At 1 January Interest cost Experience (gains) / losses on liabilities Re-measurements from change in demographic and financial assumptions Benefits paid At 31 December 2014 £’000 42,731 (38,057) 4,674 2014 £’000 39,241 1,773 (395) 3,522 (1,410) 42,731 2013 £’000 39,241 (36,327) 2,914 2013 £’000 37,330 1,658 88 1,123 (958) 39,241 70 23 Retirement benefit obligations (continued) The movement in the fair value of plan assets over the year is as follows: At 1 January Expected return on plan assets Re-measurement of return on plan assets excluding amounts included in interest expense Employer contributions Benefits paid At 31 December Plan assets are comprised as follows: Equity investment funds Absolute return funds Other investment funds Debt investments Cash and cash equivalents 2014 £’000 36,327 1,654 814 672 (1,410) 38,057 2014 2013 £’000 20,506 5,778 1,096 8,671 2,006 38,057 54% 15% 3% 23% 5% £’000 18,464 6,449 1,402 8,441 1,571 36,327 2013 £’000 32,276 1,461 2,204 1,344 (958) 36,327 51% 18% 4% 23% 4% The expected return on plan assets under IAS 19 (revised) is calculated at the same rate used to discount scheme liabilities The amounts recognised in the income statement are as follows: Interest cost on defined benefit plans The actual return on plan assets was a gain of £2,563,000 (2013: gain of £3,747,000). 2014 £’000 119 2011 £’000 33,058 (29,763) 3,295 2013 £’000 197 2010 £’000 34,898 (30,228) 4,670 2014 £’000 42,731 (38,057) 4,674 2013 £’000 39,241 (36,327) 2,914 2012 £’000 37,330 (32,276) 5,054 814 2,204 1,323 (2,074) 1,813 395 (88) (590) 403 835 At 31 December Present value of funded obligations Fair value of plan assets Liability in balance sheet Experience adjustments on scheme assets: Amount Experience adjustments on scheme liabilities: Amount Re-measurement gains and losses Re-measurement losses of £2,313,000 (2013: gains of £993,000) gross of tax were recognised in the Statement of Other Comprehensive Income during the year. The cumulative amount of actuarial losses recognised in the Statement of Other Comprehensive Income is £12,279,000 (2013: £9,966,000). 71 Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) 23 Retirement benefit obligations (continued) The principal actuarial assumptions used were as follows: Pension benefits Discount rate Inflation rate – RPI – CPI Rate of increase of pensions in payment Rate of increase of deferred pensions 2014 per annum 2013 per annum 3.75% 3.1% 2.1% 2.1% 2.1% 4.6% 3.5% 2.6% 2.6% 2.6% Assumptions regarding future mortality rates are set based on advice in accordance with S1PA actuarial tables and experience. The average life expectancy in years of a pensioner retiring at age 65 at the balance sheet date is as follows: Male Female 2014 Number 21.0 23.3 2013 Number 20.5 23.2 The average life expectancy in years of a pensioner retiring at age 65, 20 years after the balance sheet date, is as follows: Male Female 2014 Number 22.8 25.2 2013 Number 22.8 25.4 Risks Through its defined benefit pension plan, the Group is exposed to a number of risks, the most significant of which are detailed below: Asset volatility The plan liabilities are calculated using a discount rate set with reference to corporate bond yields; if plan assets underperform this yield, this will create a deficit. The plan holds a significant proportion of equities, which are expected to outperform corporate bonds in the long-term while providing volatility and risk in the short-term. The debt investments represent investments in UK securities only. The Group believes that due to the long-term nature of the plan liabilities and the strength of the supporting group, a level of continuing equity investment is an appropriate element of the group’s long term strategy to manage the plans efficiently. Changes in bond yields A decrease in corporate bond yields will increase plan liabilities, although this will be partially offset by an increase in the value of the plans’ bond holdings. 72 23 Retirement benefit obligations (continued) Inflation risk The Groups pension obligations are linked to inflation, and higher inflation will lead to higher liabilities (although, in most cases, caps on the level of inflationary increases are in place to protect the plan against extreme inflation). The majority of the plan’s assets are either unaffected by (fixed interest bonds) or loosely correlated with (equities) inflation, meaning that an increase in inflation will also increase the deficit. Life expectancy The plans’ obligations are to provide benefits for the life of the member, so increases in life expectancy will result in an increase in the plans’ liabilities. This is particularly significant where inflationary increases result in higher sensitivity to changes in life expectancy. Sensitivity A sensitivity analysis has been carried out on the effect of varying certain assumptions within the calculation of retirement benefit obligations. The effect of a 0.1% increase in the discount rate to 3.85% would be to reduce scheme liabilities by £762,000 (1.8%). The effect of a 0.1% decrease in the discount rate to 3.65% would be to increase scheme liabilities by £781,000 (1.8%). The effect of a 0.1% increase in RPI inflation to 3.2% and CPI inflation to 2.2% would increase scheme liabilities by £617,000 (1.4%). The effect of a 0.1% decrease in RPI inflation to 3.4% and CPI inflation to 2.5% would reduce scheme liabilities by £604,000 (1.4%). The effect of a 1 year increase to life expectancy would increase scheme liabilities by £1,232,000 (2.9%). The effect of a one year reduction in life expectancy would be to reduce scheme liabilities by £1,207,000 (2.8%). The amount of net deficit on retirement benefit schemes is also dependant on the valuation and investment performance of scheme assets. 24 Issued share capital and premium Group and Company At 31 December 2014 and 31 December 2013 Number of shares ‘000s Ordinary shares £’000 Share premium £’000 10,958 1,096 2,348 The total authorised number of ordinary shares is 14,300,000 (2013: 14,300,000) with a par value of 10p (2013: 10p) per share. All issued shares are fully paid. Share option schemes The Long Term Incentive Plan was introduced in May 2012. Options under this scheme are granted with a fixed exercise price at a discount to the market price of the share at the date of issue. Options vest after three years from the date of grant and expire ten years from the date of grant. Options granted will be exercisable on a pro rata basis based on performance against threshold, target and maximum performance levels. Performance targets are set at the date of each grant by the Remuneration Committee. Payment of the exercise price of options is received in cash. A charge to the Income Statement has been made to reflect the fair value of options granted. Options have been valued using the Black Scholes option pricing model. No market based performance conditions were used in the fair value calculations. 73 Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) 24 Issued share capital and premium (continued) The fair value per option granted and the assumptions used in the calculation were as follows: Long Term Incentive Plan Grant date Share price at grant date Exercise price Number of employees Shares under option Vesting period (years) Expected volatility Option life (years) Expected life (years) Risk free rate Expected dividends expressed as a dividend yield Fair value per option 1 May 2014 455p 10p 2 34,151 3 15% 10 3 1.4% 3.5% 360p 3 May 2013 345p 10p 2 43,942 3 15% 10 3 1.3% 4.1% 266p 21 June 2012 315p 10p 2 96,254 3 20% 10 3 1.6% 4.9% 236p The following options exercisable over ordinary shares were outstanding at 31 December 2014: Number of shares The Long Term Incentive Plan The Long Term Incentive Plan The Long Term Incentive Plan 2014 96,254 43,942 34,151 174,347 2013 96,254 43,942 – 140,196 Exercise price 10p 10p 10p Date from which exercisable June 2015 May 2016 May 2017 Expiry date June 2022 May 2023 May 2024 Expected volatility is based on historical volatility over the last three years. The expected life is the average expected period to exercise. The risk free rate of return is the yield on zero coupon UK government bonds of a term consistent with the assumed option life. A reconciliation of option movements for the year to 31 December 2014 is set out below. Outstanding at 1 January Granted Exercised Outstanding at 31 December 2014 2013 Weighted average exercise price 10.0p 10.0p – 10.0p Number ’000 140,196 34,151 – 174,347 Weighted Average exercise price 63.9p 10.0p 208.0p 10.0p Number ’000 132,254 43,942 (36,000) 140,196 Exercisable at 31 December – – – – 74 24 Issued share capital and premium (continued) There were 34,151 share options granted during the year (2013: 43,942). 2014 2013 Weighted average exercise price Number ’000 Weighted average remaining life (expected) Weighted average remaining life (con- tractual) Weighted average exercise price Weighted average remaining life (expected) Weighted average remaining life (con- tractual) Number ’000 0 – 50p 10p 174,347 1.1 8.1 10p 140,196 1.8 8.8 The weighted average share price for options exercised in the period was nil (2013: 208.0p). The total charge during the year for employee share based payment plans was £193,000 (2013: £75,000) before tax, all of which related to equity settled share based payment transactions. 25 Treasury shares Group and Company As at 31 December 2013 Purchase of own shares As at 31 December 2014 £’000 41 183 224 During the year the Group re-purchased 36,000 (2013: 15,000) 10p ordinary shares and re-issued nil (2013: 36,000) of these under employee share option schemes. The Group currently holds 48,000 (2013: 12,000) shares in Treasury. 26 Other reserves Group Balance at 1 January 2013 Depreciation transfer – gross Depreciation transfer – tax Change in deferred tax rate Share based payment Currency translation Balance at 31 December 2013 Depreciation transfer – gross Depreciation transfer – tax Share based payment Currency translation Balance at 31 December 2014 Land and buildings revaluation £’000 Currency translation £’000 Share based payment £’000 Other reserves £’000 926 (12) 2 37 – – 953 (12) 2 – – 943 17 – – – – (5) 12 – – – 17 29 39 – – – 75 – 114 – – 193 – 307 253 – – – – – 253 – – – – 253 Total £’000 1,235 (12) 2 37 75 (5) 1,332 (12) 2 193 17 1,532 The land and buildings revaluation reserve is the reserve created under UK GAAP where the land and buildings were revalued in 1992. On adoption of IFRS the Group took the exemption conferred by IFRS1 to treat this revalued amount as deemed cost on transition because it approximated to fair value at that time. The release between the revaluation reserve and retained earnings is the release to distributable reserves of the additional depreciation on revaluation. Other than the revaluation reserve, there are no restrictions on the distribution of the reserves. Company Other reserves of £307,000 (2013: £114,000) represent provision for share based payment as shown in the above table. 75 Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) 27 Retained earnings At 1 January 2013 Profit for the year Dividends paid in 2013 Depreciation transfer on land and buildings net of tax Actuarial gains on retirement benefit obligations net of tax Transfer from Treasury Shares (note 25) At 31 December 2013 At 1 January 2014 Profit for the year Dividends paid in 2014 Depreciation transfer on land and buildings net of tax Actuarial losses on retirement benefit obligations net of tax At 31 December 2014 Group £’000 21,871 2,761 (1,564) 10 644 (25) 23,697 23,697 3,416 (1,619) 10 (1,850) 23,654 28 Commitments Capital commitments Capital expenditure contracted for at the balance sheet date but not yet incurred is as follows: Property, plant and equipment Intangible assets: Computer software Group Company 2014 £’000 807 4 811 2013 £’000 734 – 734 2014 £’000 – – – Company £’000 5,065 1,432 (1,564) – – (25) 4,908 4,908 1,414 (1,619) – – 4,703 2013 £’000 – – – Operating lease commitments The Group has financial commitments in respect of non cancellable operating leases for buildings and plant and machinery for which the payments extend over a number of years as follows: Payments under operating leases charged against income during the year Future aggregate minimum commitments under non-cancellable operating leases: No later than one year Later than one year and no later than five years Group Company 2014 £’000 64 64 102 2013 £’000 64 63 162 2014 £’000 2013 £’000 – – – – – – 76 29 Related party transactions Details of related party transactions for the Group are shown in the Directors’ Report, Remuneration Report and in the Notes to the financial statements appropriate to the type of transaction being dealt with. There are a number of employees who have been classified as related parties. The total remuneration of these employees during the period was £160,000. The Directors do not consider the Company to have an ultimate controlling party. Company Details of related party transactions involving the Company were as follows: Subsidiaries Management charge to Churchill China, Inc Interest received from Churchill China (UK) Limited Dividend received from Churchill China (UK) Limited Loans repaid by Churchill China (UK) Limited Loans outstanding (mainly from Churchill China (UK) Limited) 30 Financial instruments by category 2014 £’000 6 4 1,625 (173) 5,310 2013 £’000 6 3 1,500 (161) 5,474 The accounting policies for financial instruments have been applied to the line items in the accounts. All financial assets including cash and cash equivalents are classified as loans and receivables, with the exception of financial assets available for sale, in both 2014 and 2013, as disclosed in note 17. 77 Five Year Financial Record Revenue Operating profit Share of results of associate net of impairment Finance cost Profit before taxation Income tax expense Profit after taxation Dividends Net assets employed Ratios Operating margin Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (£’000) Basic earnings per share (p) 2010 Restated* £’000 2011 Restated* £’000 2012 Restated* £’000 43,746 2,287 162 (418) 2,031 (504) 1,527 1,529 26,569 5.2% 3,817 14.0 42,296 2,713 (41) (234) 2,438 (530) 1,908 1,530 27,653 6.4% 4,672 17.5 41,435 2,830 18 (131) 2,717 (571) 2,146 1,529 26,461 6.8% 4,422 19.6 2013 2014 £’000 43,157 3,371 116 (117) 3,370 (609) 2,761 1,564 28,432 7.8% 4,967 25.2 £’000 44,518 4,249 116 (48) 4,317 (901) 3,416 1,619 28,406 9.5% 5,876 31.2 * Historic figures have been re-stated to reflect the introduction of IAS 19 (revised) re post employment pension benefits during 2013. 78 Notice of Annual General Meeting Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of Churchill China plc will be held at No.1, Marlborough Way, Tunstall, Stoke-on-Trent on Wednesday 20 May 2015 at 12 noon for the following purposes: Ordinary Business To consider and, if thought fit, to pass the following resolutions which will be proposed as ordinary resolutions: 1. That the reports of the Directors and the Auditors and the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2014 be received. 2. That a final dividend of 11.0p on each ordinary share be declared in respect of the year ended 31 December 2014. 3. That D M O’Connor be re-elected as a Director. 4. That A D Roper be re-elected as a Director. 5. That the Auditors, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, be re-appointed and that the Directors be authorised to fix their remuneration for the year ending 31 December 2015. 6. That the Annual Report on Remuneration for the year ended 31 December 2014 be approved. 7. That the Directors be and they are hereby authorised generally and unconditionally 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 a nominal amount of £364,900 to: (a) ordinary shareholders in proportion (as nearly as may be practicable) to their existing holdings; and (b) holders of other equity securities as required by the rights of those securities or as the Directors otherwise consider necessary, and so that the Directors may impose any limits or restrictions and make arrangements which they consider necessary or appropriate to deal with any treasury shares, fractional entitlements, record dates, legal, regulatory or practical problems in, or laws of, any territory or any matter. Unless previously renewed, varied or revoked, this power shall expire on 20 May 2020. During this period the Company may make an offer or agreement which would or might require equity securities to be allotted after this authority expires and the Directors may allot equity securities in pursuance of that offer or agreement notwithstanding that the authority has expired. For the avoidance of doubt, the authority conferred by this resolution shall (if passed) revoke the authority conferred on the Directors by the resolution dated 16 May 2012. 79 Notice of Annual General Meeting (continued) Special Business To consider and, if thought fit, to pass the following resolutions which will be proposed as special resolutions: 8. That: (a) the Directors be and they are hereby empowered under Section 570 of the Act to allot equity securities (as defined in Section 560 of the Act) for cash under the authority conferred by resolution 7 or otherwise by the resolution dated 16 May 2012, as if Section 561 of the Act did not apply to such allotment , provided that this power shall be limited to:- (i) the allotment of equity securities in connection with an offer of , or invitation to apply for, equity securities to: (a) ordinary shareholders in proportion ( as nearly as may be) to their existing holdings; and (b) holders of other equity securities, if this is required by the rights of those securities, or, as the Directors otherwise consider necessary, and so that the Directors may impose any limits or restrictions and make any arrangements which they consider necessary or appropriate to deal with any treasury shares, fractional entitlements, record dates, legal, regulatory or practical problems in, or laws of any territory or any matter; and (ii) the allotment of equity securities (otherwise than as mentioned in sub-paragraph (a) of this resolution and/or in the case of any sale of treasury shares for cash), up to an aggregate nominal amount of £109,579. Unless previously renewed, varied or revoked, this power shall expire at the conclusion of the next Annual General Meeting or 20 August 2016, whichever is the earlier, but during this period the Company may make an offer or agreement which would or might require equity securities to be allotted after this authority expires and the Directors may allot equity securities in pursuance of that offer or agreement notwithstanding that the authority has expired. 9. That the Directors be authorised generally and unconditionally for the purposes of Sections 693 and 701 of the Act to make market purchases (within the meaning of Section 693(4) of the Act) of ordinary shares of 10p each in the capital of the Company (“Ordinary Shares”) on such terms and in such manner as the Directors of the Company may from time to time determine, provided that: (i) the maximum aggregate number of Ordinary Shares hereby authorised to be purchased is 1,090,997; (ii) the minimum price which may be paid for an Ordinary Share, exclusive of all expenses, shall be 10p; (iii) the maximum price which may be paid for an Ordinary Share, exclusive of all expenses, cannot be more than an amount equal to the higher of: (a) 5 per cent above the average of the middle market quotations for an Ordinary Share as derived from the Alternative Investment Market section of the London Stock Exchange Daily Official List for the five business days immediately preceding the date on which such Ordinary Share is purchased; and (b) the price stipulated by Article 5(1) of Commission Regulation (EC) No 2273/2003 (the Buy-back and Stabilisation Regulation). Unless previously renewed, varied or revoked, the authority hereby conferred shall expire at the conclusion of the Company’s next Annual General Meeting and, the Company may prior to the expiry of the authority hereby conferred make a contract or contracts to purchase Ordinary Shares under such authority which will or may be executed wholly or partly after the expiry of such authority. 80 10. That a general meeting other than an Annual General Meeting may be called on not less than 14 clear days’ notice. By Order of the Board D J S Taylor Company Secretary Dated 20 April 2015 Registered Office No.1, Marlborough Way Tunstall Stoke-on-Trent ST6 5NZ Registered Number 02709505 The Directors of the Company consider that all the proposals to be considered at the Annual General Meeting are in the best interests of the Company and its members as a whole and are most likely to promote the success of the Company for the benefit of its members as a whole. The Directors unanimously recommend that you vote in favour of all the proposed resolutions. NOTES 1. Members are entitled to appoint a proxy to exercise all or any of their rights to attend and to speak and vote on their behalf at the meeting. A shareholder may appoint more than one proxy in relation to the AGM provided that each proxy is appointed to exercise the rights attached to a different share or shares held by that shareholder. A proxy need not be a shareholder of the Company. A form of proxy which may be used to make such appointment and give proxy instructions accompanies this notice. Instructions for use are shown on the form. If you do not have a form of proxy and believe that you should have one, or if you require additional forms, please contact our registrars, Equiniti, on 0871 384 2287. Calls to this number from a BT landline cost 8p per minute plus networks extras. If calling from overseas, please call +44 (0)121 415 7047. Lines are open 8.30am – 5pm, Monday – Friday. To appoint more than one proxy, you may photocopy the proxy form. 2. To be valid, any form of proxy or other instrument appointing a proxy must be received by post or (during normal business hours only) by hand at the offices of the Company’s registrars, Equiniti Limited, Aspect House, Spencer Road, Lancing, West Sussex BN99 6DA, no later than 12 noon on 18 May 2015. If you return more than one proxy appointment, that received last by the Registrar before the latest time for the receipt of proxies will take precedence. You are advised to read the terms and conditions of use carefully. 3. 4. The return of a completed form of proxy will not prevent a shareholder attending the AGM and voting in person if he/she wishes to do so. Any corporation which is a member can appoint one or more corporate representatives who may exercise on its behalf all of its powers as a member provided that they do not do so in relation to the same shares. 5. Any person to whom this notice is sent who is a person nominated under Section 146 of the Act to enjoy information rights (a “Nominated Person”) may, under an agreement between him/her and the shareholder by whom he/she was nominated, have a right to be appointed (or to have someone else appointed) as a proxy for the AGM. If a Nominated Person has no such proxy appointment or does not wish to exercise it, he/she may, under any such agreement, have a right to give instructions to the shareholder as to the exercise of voting rights. 6. The statement of the rights of shareholders in relation to the appointment of proxies in notes 1 and 2 above does not apply to Nominated Persons. The rights described in these paragraphs can only be exercised by shareholders of the Company. 7. To be entitled to attend and vote at the AGM (and for the purpose of the determination by the Company of the votes they may cast), shareholders must be registered in the Register of Members of the Company at 12 noon on 18 May 2015 (or, in the event of any adjournment, on the date which is two days before the time of the adjourned meeting). Changes to the Register after the relevant deadline shall be disregarded in determining the rights of any person to attend and vote at the meeting. There are no other procedures or requirements for entitled shareholders to comply with in order to attend and vote at the AGM. Voting at the meeting will be conducted by way of a show of hands, unless a poll is correctly called for. 81 Notice of Annual General Meeting (continued) 8. As at 20 April 2015 (being the last practicable date prior to publication of this Notice), the Company’s total issued equity share capital consists of 10,957,976 ordinary shares, carrying one vote each. 9. Under Section 527 of the Act, members meeting the threshold requirements set out in that Section have the right to require the Company to publish on a website a statement setting out any matter relating to: (i) the audit of the Company’s accounts (including the auditors’ report and the conduct of the audit) that are to be laid before the AGM; or (ii) any circumstance connected with an auditor of the Company ceasing to hold office since the previous meeting at which annual accounts and reports were laid in accordance with Section 437 of the Act. The Company may not require the shareholders requesting any such website publication to pay its expenses in complying with Sections 527 or 528 of the Act. Where the Company is required to place a statement on a website under Section 527 of the Act, it must forward the statement to the Company’s auditors not later than the time when it makes the statement available on the website. The business which may be dealt with at the AGM includes any statement that the Company has been required under Section 527 of the Act to publish on a website. 10. Pursuant to Section 319A of the Act, the Company must cause to be answered at the AGM any question relating to the business being dealt with at the AGM which is put by a member attending the meeting, except in certain circumstances, including if it is undesirable in the interests of the Company or the good order of the meeting that the question be answered or if to do so would involve the disclosure of confidential information. 11. Except as provided above, members who wish to communicate with the Company in relation to the AGM should do so using the following means: (1) by writing to the Company Secretary at the Registered Office address; or (2) by writing to the Registrars, Equiniti Limited, Aspect House, Spencer Road, Lancing, West Sussex, BN99 6DA. No other methods of communication will be accepted. In particular, you may not use any electronic address provided either in this Notice or in any related documents for any purposes other than expressly stated. 12. A copy of this Notice, and other information required by Section 311A of the Act, can be found at www.churchill1795.com 13. Copies of the Directors’ Service Contracts and the Non-executive Directors’ letters of appointment will be available for inspection at the Company’s Registered Office address on weekdays (Saturdays and public holidays excepted) during business hours from the date of this Notice until the conclusion of the AGM. EXPLANATORY NOTES on the RESOLUTIONS The notes on the following pages give an explanation of certain of the proposed resolutions. 1. Resolutions 3 and 4: in accordance with the Company’s Articles of Association at every AGM the number of Directors nearest to, but not exceeding one-third must retire by rotation. D M O’Connor and A D Roper are retiring by rotation and resolutions 3 and 4 respectively seek approval for his re-election as a Director. Biographical details for the Directors are set out on in the Directors’ Report. Each of the Directors has had a formal performance evaluation and the Board believes that each of them continues to be effective and demonstrates commitment to the role. 2. Resolution 6: this is a resolution to approve the Annual Report on Directors’ Remuneration on pages 31 to 35. As an AIM listed company, the Company is not required to comply with all of the requirements in this respect under The Large and Medium-sized Companies and Groups (Accounts and Reports) (Amendment) Regulations 2013. The Company has chosen to disclose its Remuneration Policy on pages 27 to 30 although the Policy is not the subject matter of Resolution 6. 3. Resolution 7 is an ordinary resolution authorising the Directors at any time prior to 20 May 2020 to allot relevant securities up to an aggregate nominal value of 1/3 of the issued share capital (including shares held in treasury) of the Company as at 20 April 2015. The Directors have no present intention to exercise this authority which is designed to preserve flexibility. The number of treasury shares held by the Company as at 20 April 2015 is 48,000 which represents 0.4% of the issued share capital as at that date. 4. Resolution 8: under Section 570 of the Act, when new shares are allotted or treasury shares are sold for cash, they must first be offered to existing shareholders pro rata to their holdings. This special resolution empowers the Directors to: (a) allot shares of the Company in connection with a rights issue, scrip dividend or other similar issue; and (b) otherwise allot shares of the Company, or sell treasury shares for cash, up to an aggregate nominal value of £109,579 (representing, in accordance with institutional investor guidelines, approximately 10% of the total issued equity share capital as at 20 April 2015) (being the last practicable date prior to the publication of this Notice) as if the pre-emption rights of Section 570 did not apply. Except in relation to the Company’s employee share schemes, the Directors have no immediate plans to make use of this power. In line with best practice, the Company confirms that it has issued 0.3% of its issued share capital (excluding shares held in treasury) on a non-pro rata basis over the last 3 years, and it confirms its intention to adhere to the provisions in the Pre-Emption Group Statement of Principles regarding cumulative usage of authorities of no more than 7.5 per cent of the issued ordinary share capital (excluding shares held in treasury) within a rolling 3 year period. This power shall cease to have effect at the conclusion of the next AGM or on 14 August 2016, whichever is the earlier. 5. Resolution 9 renews the Directors’ current authority to make limited market purchases of the Company’s ordinary shares. The power is limited to a maximum aggregate number of 1,090,997 ordinary shares (representing approximately 10 per cent of the issued share capital excluding shares held in treasury as at 20 April 2015 (being the last practicable date prior to publication of this Notice) and details the minimum and maximum prices that can be paid, exclusive of expenses. Any purchases of ordinary shares would be made by means of market purchase through the London Stock Exchange. The Directors undertake that the authority conferred by this resolution, if approved, will only be used if to do so would result in an increase in earnings per share and be in the best interests of shareholders generally. Current legislation allows companies to hold shares acquired by way of market purchase in treasury, rather than having to cancel them. The Directors may use the authority to purchase shares and hold them in treasury (and subsequently sell or transfer them out of treasury as permitted in accordance with legislation) rather than cancel them, subject to institutional guidelines applicable at the time. Shares will only be purchased if to do so would result in an increase in earnings per share and is in the best interests of shareholders generally. The Board has previously indicated its intention to continue to return surplus cash to shareholders via on-market purchase of its own shares where it is not required to finance the organic expansion of the business, acquisitions and dividend payments. The authority conferred by this resolution will expire at the conclusion of the next AGM. 6. Resolution 10 is required under the Shareholders’ Rights Regulations in order to preserve the ability of the Company to call general meetings on 14 days’ notice, with shareholders’ approval. The approval will be effective until the Company’s next Annual General Meeting when it is intended that a similar resolution will be proposed. The Company will also need to meet the requirements for electronic voting under the Regulations before it can call a general meeting on 14 days’ notice. 82 Shareholder Notes 83 Shareholder Notes 84 China plc Churchill China plc No.1 Marlborough Way, Tunstall, Stoke-on-Trent, ST6 5NZ, England T: +44 (0) 1782 577566 www.churchill1795.com ©Churchill China plc 2015