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Grainger

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FY2011 Annual Report · Grainger
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Unlocking  
residential potential...

 Annual report and accounts 2011

Grainger plc

Grainger = Residential
Our business is to provide investors  
with exposure to a range of returns  
from the residential sector.

Annual report and accounts 2011

Overview

 Business review

 Governance

 Financials

01

Contents

Overview

02 _ Chairman’s statement
04 _ Grainger = Residential
06 _ Our performance – group KPIs

Business review

07 _ CEO strategic overview
14 _ Where our properties are located
16 _ Our business activities
18 _ UK residential
19 _ Retirement solutions
20 _  Fund management and 

residential investments

Governance

42 _ The Grainger board
44 _ Corporate governance report
50 _  Report of the remuneration committee 
and directors’ remuneration report

57 _ Directors’ report

21 _ Development
22 _ German residential
23 _ Financial review
30 _ Corporate responsibility
39 _ Risk management

Financials

61 _  Independent auditors’ report to the 

members of Grainger plc on the group 
financial statements

62 _ Consolidated income statement
63 _  Consolidated statement of 
comprehensive income
64 _  Consolidated statement of 

financial position

66 _  Consolidated statement of 

changes in equity

68 _  Consolidated statement of cash flows
70 _ Notes to the financial statements

145 _  Independent auditors’ report on the 
parent company financial statements

146 _ Parent company balance sheet
147 _  Notes to the parent company 

financial statements

153 _  Five-year record for the year ended 

30 September 2011
154 _ Shareholders’ information
155 _ Advisers
156 _ Glossary of terms
157 _ Corporate addresses

Key financial highlights  
for 2011

Operating profit*

£126.2m

 +34%

Profit before tax

£26.1m

return to profit

Gross NAV per share

NNNAV per share

Dividend per share

216p

 +8.2%

153p

 +9.7%

1.83p

+7.6%

*  before valuation movements and 

non-recurring items

 
 
Grainger plc

02

Chairman’s statement
The group has performed strongly in the year to 30 September 2011, 
achieving a profit before tax of £26.1m compared to a loss of £20.8m  
in 2010. Profit before tax and movements on financial derivatives  
rose almost three-fold from £18.8m to £54.1m, while operating profit  
before valuation movements and non-recurring items has shown a  
34% increase to £126.2m from £94.2m. Gross net asset value per share 
increased 8.2% to 216p from 200p.

Business overview
Our business has three income streams – 
sales of residential properties, rental 
income and fees or other income from 
managed or co-invested vehicles. In each  
of these areas we have made good 
progress in consolidating our position 
as a leading residential trader, investor 
and manager:

• Trading.
We have actively sought to improve the 
range and quality of our residential portfolio, 
selling non-core and low growth assets 
and acquiring good quality replacements. 
An example of this was the acquisition of 
our partners’ interests in Grainger GenInvest 
which helped increase our proportion of UK 
assets in London and the South East to 62%.

• Investment.
Our gross rental income has increased 
from £75.6m to £86.3m, augmented by 
the acquisition of HI Tricomm Holdings.  
Its portfolio of 317 properties let on a 
long-term basis to the Ministry of Defence 
generates a gross annual rental yield of 
8.3% on its acquisition price.

• Management.
We have been successful in leveraging  
off our asset and property management 
skills to increase the group’s fee income 
levels. In doing so, we have established 
working relationships with high quality 
partners such as Moorfield, Lloyds Banking 
Group, Defence Infrastructure Organisation 
and Bouygues Development. Fees have 
increased by 23% in the year. 

Dividends
The board is recommending a final 
dividend of 1.30p per share. If approved, 
this will be paid on 10 February 2012  
to shareholders on the register on 
9 December 2011. At the half year we 
returned £2.2m to shareholders (equivalent 
to 0.53p per share) through a tender offer 
for shares. This totals an equivalent of 
1.83p per share (2010: 1.70p).

Board
As announced at the half year, Bill Tudor 
John left the board after six years of valuable 
service as a director and was replaced by 
Belinda Richards. Robert Hiscox will retire 
from the board at our Annual General 
Meeting on 8 February 2012 and his place 
has been taken by Tony Wray, Chief Executive 
of Severn Trent plc. Robert has been a director 
since March 2002 and has made a significant 

Robin Broadhurst
Chairman

Annual report and accounts 2011

Overview

 Business review

 Governance

 Financials

03

Total dividend 2011

1.83p

and pertinent contribution to our business 
over that period. We look forward to  
being able to take advantage of both 
Tony’s broad corporate experience gained 
at a major listed company and Belinda’s 
corporate finance expertise. 

It is appropriate for me to also note the sad 
and premature death of Rupert Dickinson 
in September. Rupert was Chief Executive 
of Grainger until ill health caused his early 
retirement in October 2009. His leadership 
of the business was characterised by his 
passion and enthusiasm for the company 
and the residential sector. He will be 
sadly missed. 

Outlook
Our business has continued to show 
resilient performance and a proven ability 
to take advantage of opportunities that 
will provide long-term value. Our core skills 
remain our ability to asset manage, across 
the UK, large numbers of residential 
properties efficiently to provide enhanced 
returns within the sector. This is supported 
both by our recent refinancing and by  
the strong cash generative capability of  
our portfolio. As a result, whilst mindful of 
the challenges presented by the external 
environment, we are positioning ourselves 
to take advantage of what we expect to 
be interesting opportunities over the 
medium term. 

We have invested wisely in strategic 
acquisitions during the year. Going forward 
we will also continue to supplement profits 
from our reversionary business with a 
growth in fee income from our asset and 
property management activities. Such 
activities enhance return on capital and 
rely less on investment. We therefore 
anticipate a reduction in our requirement 
for debt in the near to medium term and 
our successful refinancing strategy has 
been based around this approach. 

Grainger was incorporated in 1912 and as 
we enter our first centenary year we have 
cemented our brand and our reputation 
as a professional and caring landlord. In turn 
this has benefited our tenants, partners 
and stakeholders. 

None of this would have been possible 
without the enthusiasm, skill and commitment 
not only of our current staff but also their 
predecessors. I would like to extend my 
thanks to them all. 

Robin Broadhurst  
Chairman 
5 December 2011

 
Grainger plc

04

Grainger = Residential
Our business model is dedicated to ensuring Grainger is the first port 
of call for residential investment. Our expertise and the scale of our 
assets and operations enable us to generate sustainable income 
streams from sales, rents, management fees and other related activities. 

Multiple investment routes

Large scale assets and 
management platform

Income streams

We seek to ensure Grainger’s name  
is the first to mind whenever residential 
property investment and management 
is considered – among investors, 
prospective partners and other key 
stakeholders, offering a number of 
routes to investment.

Wholly-owned property

UK: 13,564  

Sales income

see page 14 

Sales income is primarily generated through: 

Germany: 6,718  

see page 15 

Value: £2.3bn 

Our wholly owned portfolios are at 
the heart of our business and through 
the benefits of long-term asset and 
property management produce regular 
and consistent income. 

Assets under management

26,691 units 

Value: £3.0bn

Inclusive of 13,759 third party properties 
in Germany managed by our joint venture, 
Gebau Vermogen, the total properties 
under management is 40,450 units.

The scale of our residential operations 
has enabled us to invest in systems, 
processes and procedures which  
can provide value to other parties. 
Consequently we derive income from 
fund, property and asset management 
as well as direct returns from any stakes 
we hold in co-investment vehicles.

UK residential 
9  More information see page 18

Retirement solutions 
9  More information see page 19

In addition we have made significant sales  
this year from:

Development 
9  More information see page 21

German residential
9  More information see page 22

£m
152
28
22
21
223 

Gross sales income

1. UK residential
2. Retirement solutions
3. Development
4. Germany
    Total

4

3

2

1

Annual report and accounts 2011

Overview

 Business review

 Governance

 Financials

05

Rental income

Rental income is primarily generated through: 

UK residential  
9  More information see page 18

Retirement solutions 
9  More information see page 19

German residential  
9  More information see page 22 

Net rental income

1. UK residential
2. Germany
3. Retirement solutions
    Total 

£m
38.4
20.2
3.8
62.4 

3

2

Fees and other income
Fees and other income is primarily  
generated through: 

UK residential  
9  More information see page 18

Retirement solutions 
9  More information see page 19

Fund management  
and residential investments 
9  More information see page 20

Development 
9  More information see page 21

Fee income

1.  Fund management and 
residential investments

2. UK residential
3. Retirement solutions
4. Development
5. Germany
    Total 

4 5

3

2

£m
6.3

0.5
0.5
0.4
0.3
8.0

1

1

Shareholder returns

Debt servicing 

Disciplined recycling back  
into asset portfolio

Grainger plc

06

Our performance
We measure our performance through a clear set of KPIs.

Operating profit before valuation 
movements and non-recurring 
items – OPBVM (£m)

2
.
6
2
1

2
.
4
9

8
.
8
7

Gross net asset value 
per share – NAV (p)

Triple net asset value 
per share – NNNAV (p)

Return on capital employed – 
ROCE (%)

4
9
1

0
0
2

6
1
2

1
4
1

0
4
1

3
5
1

5
.
6

3
.
5

)
3
.
4
(

09

10

11

09

10

11

09

10

11

09

10

11

OPBVM is a measure of the profit 
generated by our key income streams 
of net rents, profits on sale of property 
and other income, net of overheads.

OPBVM reached £126.2m in 2011 up 
by 34% from 2010. This was assisted 
by increases in net rent from our two 
key acquisitions and strong residential  
and development trading profits.

NAV is based on property assets 
stated at market value. It is stated  
after adding back deferred tax on 
property revaluations and the balance 
sheet value of derivatives.

NAV increased from 200p to 216p at 
the 2011 year end primarily as a result 
of our profit after tax and an increase 
of 3.0% in the market value of our  
UK properties.

Return on shareholder equity 
– ROSE (%)

Profit/(loss) before tax – PBT
(£m)

1
.
1
1

6
.
0

)
7
.
3
3
(

1
.
6
2

)
0
.
0
7
1
(

)
8
.
0
2
(

NNNAV is also based on property assets 
at market value but also includes the 
contingent tax on this uplift, deferred 
tax on asset revaluations and the full 
balance sheet value of derivatives net 
of deferred tax.

NNNAV increased from 140p to  
153p at the 2011 year end as a result 
of the group’s profit after tax and the  
net increase in market value of our 
property assets. 

Sales price above previous year 
end vacant possession 
value (VPV)

5
.
7

7
.
5

7
.
6

7
.
3

)
8
.
6
(

)
8
.
6
(

09

10

11

09

10

11

09

10

11

ROSE measures the movement in 
NNNAV in the year plus the dividend 
relating to the year as a percentage  
of opening NNNAV.

ROSE was 11.1% in 2011 reflecting  
the increase in NNNAV from 140p  
to 153p and also the dividend for the 
year of 1.83p (including the tender 
offer equivalent to 0.53p per share).

Whereas OPBVM above measures 
specific elements of the income 
statement, PBT includes all items taken 
through the income statement before 
tax, including net interest expense.

PBT was £26.1m in 2011 assisted by 
the strong trading performance of the 
business as noted above and despite 
a charge to income of £28.0m arising 
from derivatives.

We compare actual prices achieved  
on sales of vacant properties in our  
UK residential and retirement solutions 
business to their VPV at the previous 
year end. This measure shows how prices 
are moving and the effectiveness of 
our sales process. This year we sold 
un-refurbished properties on average 
at 3.7% above the 2010 year end VPV, 
and those with pre-sale refurbishment 
at 6.7% above the 2010 year end VPV.

ROCE measures the overall profit 
of the business before interest and 
derivative expense, as a percentage 
of the opening market value of all 
property assets and investments in 
JV’s/associates.

ROCE was 6.5% in 2011 assisted by 
the strong trading performance noted 
in OPBVM.

Pre refurb %
After refurb %

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

Business review

 Governance

 Financials

07

CEO strategic overview
Grainger operates as a trader, investor and manager of residential 
properties and therefore offers its investors exposure to residential 
returns from three main sources of income.

Main sources of income
• Receipts from the sale of assets 

(profits from sale: £81m).

• Rents (net rents: £62m).

• Fees from co-invested  

and/or managed vehicles  
(total fees: £8m).

Business overview
Grainger owns £2.3bn of residential property 
of which 82% is located in the UK and  
the balance in Germany. In the year ended 
30 September 2011 this portfolio generated 
£86m of gross rents and total asset sales 
amounted to £223m. A further £8m of 
fees and other income was produced.

The overall portfolio can be categorised by 
asset type, location and income as follows:

Sales

Rents

Fees

Assets & value 
(£m)

UK residential  
portfolio  
£1,402m

Retirement  
solutions assets 
£474m

Fund management 
and residential 
investments 
£54m

Development  
assets  
£73m

German residential  
portfolio  
£422m

Our UK residential portfolio comprises 
13,564 tenanted houses and flats, 
together with other associated interests 
such as ground rents and garage blocks. 
Most of the properties are, or have been, 
subject to regulated tenancies or home 
reversions plans. Under a regulated 
tenancy the tenant pays us a rent set by 
a local rent officer which is usually below 
the prevailing market rent. The tenant also 
has right of tenure but, when the property 
is vacated, it reverts back to Grainger  
and can be sold on the open market with 

Andrew R Cunningham
Chief executive

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

08

CEO strategic overview continued

vacant possession. We buy these tenanted 
properties at a discount (‘the reversion’)  
to the vacant possession value and so our 
returns consist of rents received during 
occupation, the value of the reversion 
crystallised when the property is vacated 
and sold, together with any growth in 
value from house price inflation during the 
period of ownership. It is a key characteristic 
of the residential market that properties 
are more valuable vacant than tenanted. 
The properties are usually owned for ten 
years or more and this helps smooth out 
price volatility arising from economic cycles. 

Our retirement solutions assets consist 
primarily of ownership stakes in properties 
occupied by elderly people (home reversion 
plans). A lump sum is paid to the owner 
occupier for some or all of their residential 
property reflecting an appropriate discount, 
and they are entitled to remain in their 
house for the rest of their lives without 
paying any rent. When they vacate the 
property it reverts back to Grainger and 
we are then able to sell it with vacant 
possession. The returns therefore consist 
of the reversion enhanced by house 
price inflation. 

These two reversionary portfolios account 
for about 77% by value of our total business 
and offer a blend of trading and rental 
returns. The majority of our regulated 
tenants receive financial support through 
housing benefit and, because of their 
rights of tenure, have a vested interest in 
ensuring the rent is paid. Consequently our 
rental returns are long term, stable and 

secure with very low levels of arrears.  
Both of our reversionary portfolios provide 
a steady stream of predictable vacancies 
giving us the opportunity to sell and 
crystallise value. The reversionary surplus  
in our UK business (the difference between 
vacant possession value and tenanted  
or market value) now stands at £571m 
(2010: £604m). The low average value 
(c.£197K), often un-refurbished nature  
of the properties and high level of cash 
purchasers they attract mean that these 
vacant properties sell well and quickly. 

Our development activities are much 
smaller in scale (book value £80m at  
30 September 2011) but offer opportunities 
for significant returns and cash flow.  
We often work in joint venture arrangements 
(for example with Development Securities  
in Birmingham and Helical Bar in 
Hammersmith) to leverage the respective 
skills and resources of ourselves and 
our partners. Our major development 
activity at present is at our site in West 
Waterlooville, Hampshire. We will bring 
some 2,550 residential units through 
the planning process, install infrastructure 
and then sell fully serviced plots to 
housebuilders under common standards 
of quality and sustainability. This activity 
follows the core Grainger principles of 
long-term residential expertise and the 
creation of returns through a change in 
value and subsequent sale. In the UK 
residential and home reversions portfolios 
this comes from a change in tenure and 
in development, it largely derives from a 
change in use or planning permission. 

Our German residential portfolio consists 
of some 6,718 units with a value at the 
year end of €490m. The returns from these 
assets are more heavily biased towards 
rental income than those in the UK, and  
so provide a good balance of risk through 
stable asset values and higher gross yields.

In total we own 20,282 residential 
properties. This has enabled us to invest  
in the systems, processes and people 
required to run such a large portfolio. 
Together with the breadth of our 
residential expertise this has placed us  
in a good position to offer these skills to 
third parties, often on a co-investing  
basis (for example, G:res and our Sovereign 
Reversions Joint Venture with Moorfield). 
This is a growing part of the business as 
demonstrated clearly this year by the 
success of our expanding these activities 
through arrangements with Defence 
Infrastructure Organisation (the Aldershot 
Urban Extension) and with Lloyds Banking 
Group (the Grainger Residential Asset 
Management Platform G:RAMP). 
Subsequent to the year end we also 
announced our framework agreement 
with Bouygues Development to co-invest 
in a residential Build-to-Let fund which,  
on creation, will provide institutional 
investors with the opportunity to invest  
in scale in the private rented sector. 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

Business review

 Governance

 Financials

09

Strategy in action

Objective set in 2010

Action in 2011

1

2
3

4

Rebalancing residential 
portfolios to selective 
areas of value or growth.

Reducing capital employed 
in non-core assets and 
underperforming locations.

Introducing third party 
capital to diversify returns.

•  Acquisitions of high yielding  

HI Tricomm portfolio and the Grainger 
GenInvest LLPs. 

•  Some 62% of UK portfolio in London 

and the South East (54% two years ago). 

• Increase in gross rental income of 14%.

•  Disposal of £41m of tenanted properties 

in the UK and €23m in Germany  
to improve overall portfolio quality.

•  Joint venture with Moorfield to hold 

Sovereign Reversion assets. 

•  G:res life extended. 

•  Partnership with Defence Infrastructure 

Organisation at Aldershot. 

•  Partnership with Lloyds Banking Group 

through G:RAMP.

•  Increase in management fees of 23%.

Acting early to  
consider and implement  
debt financing options.

•  Approximately £1.2bn of debt finance 
raised including the introduction of 
several new lenders and the extension  
of average maturities. 

Grainger plc

10

CEO strategic overview continued

Business performance
This year has been characterised by a number of significant transactions 
which have moved the business forward and which reflect how our strategic 
objectives are put into practice. 

Transaction 
Sovereign Reversions  
joint venture

HI Tricomm acquisition

Description

Impact

Sovereign Reversions was acquired by 
Grainger in August 2010. It owned 1,038 
home reversion assets with a market 
value of approximately £68m. In October 
2010, Moorfield acquired a 50% stake in 
the vehicle.

Acquisition of corporate entity owning 
317 houses let to the Ministry of Defence. 
Gross annual yield of 8.3% based on its 
acquisition price and existing long-term 
financing retained.

Grainger GenInvest LLP’s 
acquisition

The acquisition of our JV partner’s (Genesis 
Housing Group) stake in these LLPs to 
give us 100% ownership. The portfolios 
included c.1,650 residential units in central 
London with a market value of £289m and 
a vacant possession value of £353m.

The acquisition adds scale to Grainger’s 
own home reversion business. As well 
as the returns from our investment we 
obtain fees for managing the portfolio.

Adds c.£9m to the group’s gross rent 
roll. The financing brought a new  
lender into the group and extended our 
overall debt maturities. The discount  
on acquisition produced a one-off gain 
of £14.9m and the value has increased 
by a further £0.6m since acquisition.  
Net rental income since acquisition 
was £5.0m.

Incremental gross rents of c.£12m 
and a significant addition to the UK 
residential portfolio, increasing its size 
by 25% on acquisition and providing 
us with significant development and 
reversionary potential. The acquisition 
also enabled us to introduce two new 
lenders, HSBC and Santander. Since 
acquisition, net rental income of £5.3m, 
representing a gross annual yield of 
4.2% and a further revaluation uplift  
of 4.2% at £11.9m.

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

Business review

 Governance

 Financials

11

Transaction 
G:RAMP 

Aldershot Urban  
Extension

Waterlooville

Description

Impact

Provision of G:RAMP for Lloyds Banking 
Group. By 30 September 2011 some 1,545 
residential units were included in G:RAMP.

Significant leveraging off existing skills 
and operational platform to provide fees 
and improve return on capital employed.

Appointment as preferred developer by 
Defence Infrastructure Organisation and 
Homes and Communities Agency for  
148 hectares of land which may result in  
up to 4,500 residential units.

Outline planning consent obtained for 
2,550 homes, 15–20 year pipeline  
of serviced land sales to housebuilders.

Long-term recurring fee income with 
high quality partner. Based on value of 
sales of serviced plots to housebuilders. 

Long-term income from land sales. 

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Grainger plc

12

CEO strategic overview continued

Overall market review 
Residential property values are driven by 
supply and demand and can be distorted 
significantly by local economic factors.  
This has been most noticeable over the last 
year in the prime London market where 
ultra high value properties have adopted 
many of the characteristics of precious 
metal investment. Shortage of supply, 
exacerbated by planning restrictions, 
geopolitical stability, the attractiveness  
of the time zone and London’s standing  
as a high quality urban environment  
have pushed prices of these properties to 
unprecedented levels. To a lesser extent, 
prices in other London and South East 
areas have also reflected the imbalance 
between supply and demand by exhibiting 
stronger price levels than other parts of  
the UK, which are much more susceptible 
to the weak economy and to the effects  
of the mortgage market. Some 62% of 
our UK properties are situated in London 
and the South East and so benefit from 
these factors. 

As well as geographical imbalances we 
find, that in these markets, certain types  
of property sell better. Generally, our 
properties are of low average value and 
tend to be un-refurbished on vacancy. 
Demand for these properties from a mixed 
constituency of cash buyers, amateur and 
professional developers and local specialist 
landlords as well the usual mortgage 
backed owner-occupier remains strong. 

This is reflected by the fact that our 
average sales period runs at approximately 
112 days and our vacant sales were 
completed for values on average 3.7% 
above the equivalent September 2010 
valuation. Refurbishment works prior to 
sale can improve returns and when these 
are taken into account we have sold at 
6.7% above September 2010 valuations.

We believe the switch between home 
ownership and rented occupation signals 
a significant and permanent structural 
change in the housing market. We anticipate 
demand for rental properties, particularly 
in major metropolitan areas, to increase 
and there to be more blurring of the edges 
between the affordable/public/private 
rented sectors. 

Mortgage funding for house purchases 
remains at very low levels reflecting 
primarily the higher levels of deposit 
required by lenders – the average first time 
buyer deposit stands at 21% of purchase 
price. This, allied to weak confidence in the 
economic outlook, has led to a significant 
increase in the number of household 
properties being rented. In London it is 
estimated that the percentage level of 
home ownership has fallen from 60%  
in 2001 to 52% in 2010. The increase  
in demand has also pushed rentals up  
with prime London residential rents 
showing annual increases of up to 10%  
on new lettings. 

Government has indicated support for a 
stronger more professional private rented 
sector. There is an increased possibility  
of residential REITs being created once 
legislative changes are enacted in 2012. 
The Government’s Housing Strategy, 
announced on 21 November 2011, clearly 
states the Government’s desire to support 
the private rented sector and announced 
the creation of an independent review  
to explore ways to attract institutional 
investment into the sector. 

We are well placed to take advantage 
of these changes through our expertise 
as a major residential landlord and by 
positioning ourselves in the market rented 
sector through our involvement with G:res 
and the Bouygues and Grainger build-to-
let fund. The fund was recognised by the 
UK Government in its Housing Strategy 
as an exemplar of private sector initiatives. 

The German residential market shows 
different characteristics from the UK. 
Overall levels of home ownership are much 
lower at approximately 42%, the second 
lowest in Europe. The size of the rental 
market has led to a diverse range of rental 
housing and vacancy rates are relatively 
constant at below 4%. These factors have 
led to a more investment based market 
with some 40% of rental units being 
owned by professional/commercial landlords. 
As with the UK, geographical differences 
are evident and both residential prices and 
rental demand are strongest in the larger 
economically successful cities, particularly 
in the West. It is in these areas that our 
German portfolio is located and these 
attractive locations, together with a good 
quality portfolio, bode well for future rental 
growth and capital appreciation. 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

Business review

 Governance

 Financials

13

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W e   w i
t h r e e   m a i n  
r e a m s
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i n c o m e   s t

s a l e s  
r e n t s  
f e e s

Future prospects
The prospects for the UK economy and 
therein the broad housing market is 
uncertain. Wider global economic conditions 
will play an important, if not the most 
important, part in the health of the UK 
economy in the short to medium term. 
This uncertainty will result in subdued 
behaviour both among businesses and 
consumers. We therefore take a cautious 
view of the prospects for general house 
price growth in the short to medium  
term, but believe this can be offset by the 
severe undersupply of housing compared 
to growing demand in local markets.  
The imbalance between supply and 
demand will vary significantly from area  
to area with an impact on pricing. 

Our future focus will be to build on our 
three main income streams in a risk 
controlled way – property sales primarily  
of assets to capture their reversionary 
value, rental income and fees or other 
income from managed or co-invested 
vehicles. Our existing portfolio provides  
us with a ready source of liquid assets  
that sell well and quickly. The portfolio  
also provides opportunities for rental 
appreciation and we continue to increase 
our fee income through the application  
of our residential property expertise. 

We have seen a good start to the new 
financial year and our total group sales 
pipeline (completed sales, contracts 
exchanged and properties in solicitors 
hands) amounted to £60.3m at 
25 November 2011 with UK normal 
residential sales values some 5.3% above 
September 2011 vacant possession values. 

We are disposing of assets that are either 
regarded as non-core or where we see 
limited opportunities for growth. When 
taken in conjunction with our normal sales 
on vacancy, we anticipate being net sellers 
of property in the short to medium term. 
We believe that operating at lower levels 
of debt in conjunction with a greater 
emphasis on fee generating activities, will 
generate a better risk adjusted return to 
our shareholders. Our property management 
activities may result in increased assets 
under management. 

We are well positioned to take advantage 
of the opportunities presented by the 
changes in the residential market. A large 
proportion of our portfolio is in geographic 
areas where economic activity, and 
therefore demand, is highest enabling  
us to maximise sales value and velocity. 
Our expertise as residential landlords will 
enable us to take full advantage of the 
increasing rental market and, in particular, 
the build-to-let sector. We are optimistic 
about our opportunities to improve return 
on capital by managing other parties’ 
residential real estate exposure. 

In summary, we remain confident in our 
ability to deliver good levels of long-term 
return in the residential property sector  
for our shareholders.

Andrew R Cunningham 
Chief executive 
5 December 2011

 
 
Grainger plc

14

Where our properties are located
We own £2.3bn of residential property assets in the 
UK and Germany located in those areas with good 
prospects for rental growth and capital appreciation. 

UK

IPD region: 
Relative change in valuation Sept 2010 – September 2011

High 

Low

12

11

7

3

10

8

9

6

5

2

4

1

Key statistics

Overview

The market value of our UK residential 
properties has increased by 3.0% overall  
in the year ended 30 September 2011.  
As reflected by the shading in the map of 
the UK, property values have been most 
resilient in London and the South East.  
This reflects the imbalance between supply 

13,564

Properties

£2,447m

Vacant Possession Value 

£1,876m

Market Value 

UK assets 
Substantial asset value and future revenue potential embedded in Grainger’s large,  
mature and geographically diverse portfolio focused on attractive areas.

London and South East: 
62% of UK portfolio

London (Total)
1
South East
2
South West
3
East
4
5
East Midlands
6 West Midlands
7 Wales
8
Yorkshire
9 North West
10 North East
11 Scotland
12 Northern Ireland

Total 

September 2011

September 2010

Vacant 
possession 
value  
£m
1,160
333
290
165
62
145
15
72
143
40
21
1
2,447

Number  
of units
4,006
2,134
1,786
1,299
562
970
138
674
1,368
365
250
12
13,564

Market  
value  
£m
915
240
244
120
43
107
9
51
102
30
14
1
1,876

%  
of Grainger  
market  
value
49%
13%
13%
6%
2%
6%
0%
3%
5%
2%
1%
0%

Number  
of units
2,783
2,210
1,521
1,389
841
1,025
184
770
1,436
381
274
13
100% 12,827

%  
of Grainger  
market  
value
40%
16%
9%
8%
4%
7%
1%
4%
7%
2%
1%
0%
100%

The reversionary surplus in our UK business, the difference between vacant possession value 
and market value, is £571m.

UK

UK assets 

Substantial asset value and future revenue potential embedded in Grainger’s large,  

mature and geographically diverse portfolio focused on attractive areas.

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

Business review

 Governance

 Financials

15

Germany

Germany: 
Socioeconomic attractiveness

High 

Low

and demand as well as the relative 
attractiveness of our low average value 
and generally un-refurbished properties. 
As a result of acquisitions in the year, 
Grainger now has 62%, by market value, 
of its property located in these more 
attractive regions.

3

6

5

2

1

4

UK assets by tenure

As at 30 September 2011

Regulated
Home Reversion
Assured Shorthold
HI Tricomm
Other
Vacant
Total

Number 
of units

5,853
5,902
1,220
317
52
220
13,564

Market  
value  
£m

954
474
233
106
52
57
1,876

Source: Berlin Institute

 Key statistics

Overview

As shown by the shading in the map of 
Germany, the economically successful areas 
in the West and South of the country  
are the most attractive in terms of rental 
demand and prices. The majority of our 
portfolio is located in these more attractive 
regions such as Baden-Würtemberg, Hesse, 
Bavaria and Rhineland – Palatinate and we 
expect this to provide a good platform for 
future rental and price growth.

Germany assets

1 Baden–

Württemberg

2 Hesse
3 North Rhine 
– Westphalia

4 Bavaria
5 Lower Saxony
6 Rhineland 
– Palatinate

  Other
Total 

Number  
of units
1,501

Investment 
 value  
€m
127

% of  
Grainger  
investment  
value
26%

1,490
1,677

560
751
337

112
101

56
37
26

23%
21%

11%
8%
5%

402
6,718

31
490

6%
100%

£422m

Book value

6,718

Properties

7.0%

Annual gross rental yield

4.6%

Annual net rental yield

Grainger plc

16

Our business activities
Grainger owns, acquires and trades regulated and market-let 
tenanted properties and has a substantial portfolio of home 
reversion properties. We also undertake fund, asset and property 
management along with residential-led development.

£

£

Sales + rents + fees
 UK residential

Sales + rents + fees
 Retirement solutions

The UK residential business primarily  
consists of properties subject to a 
regulated tenancy. The portfolio is 
geographically widespread but with a 
strong concentration in London and the 
South East, (72% by value). This unique 
portfolio brings strong and stable cash 
flows from rental income and trading 
profits on the sale of property. 

Regulated units owned
Market value
Vacant possession value
Other assets
Market value
Vacant possession value

2011
5,853

2010
5,969
£954m £863m
£1,280m £1,185m
915
£448m £205m
£490m £232m

1,809

We are a market leader in the UK  
equity release business, with a particular 
focus on the home reversion sector.  
Our retirement solutions business offers 
home reversion plans with a range  
of features through our Bridgewater 
business, which distributes these plans 
through independent financial advisers. 
We have won the Best Provider Home 
Reversions for the last five years at the 
Equity Release awards.

Units owned
Market value
Vacant possession value

2011
5,902

2010
6,981
£474m £545m
£677m £800m

Fees
 Fund management and 
residential investments

Our fund management and residential 
investments business comprises our 
investments in funds and joint ventures 
and the income from asset and property 
management fees. The principal 
components are G:res1, a market rented 
residential property fund in which we 
are a co-investor and asset and property 
manager and G:RAMP, our asset 
management platform which services 
our contract with Lloyds Banking Group.

Contribution to income 

Contribution to income

Contribution to income 

 £191m
65%

£33m
11%

 £6m
2%

9  More information see page 18

9  More information see page 19

9  More information see page 20

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

Business review

 Governance

 Financials

17

 Sales + fees
 Development

Grainger’s development business 
focuses on value creation by  
assembling residential development  
and mixed-use opportunities, obtaining 
or amending planning permissions, 
installing infrastructure and then either 
selling or self-developing plots. We take 
a long-term interest in the communities 
that we create and have the perspective  
of an investor rather than a  
developer/trader.

Market value including  
share of joint ventures
Number of  
development sites
Gross development value

2011
£73m

2010
£79m

24

23

£490m £460m

£

Sales + rents
 German residential

Our portfolio is concentrated in the 
economically and demographically 
stronger regions of Germany (Baden– 
Württemberg, Bavaria and the Rhine 
–Main area) and major cities such as 
Frankfurt, Cologne, Düsseldorf and 
Munich. Our asset and property 
management JV, Gebau Vermögen, 
looks after c.20,000 units throughout 
Germany and enables us to offer an 
integrated asset and property 
management service.

The overall portfolio can be  
categorised by asset type, location  
and income as follows:

Business area/ 
asset value 
(£m)

UK residential 
£1,402m

Retirement  
solutions
£474m

Fund management 
and residential 
investments 
£54m

Development 
£73m

German 
residential 
£422m

Sales  
£m

Net 
rent 
£m

Fees/  
other 
£m

152

38

28

4

1

1

6

22

21

20

Total 
 £m

191

33

6

22

41

Units owned
Gross rent roll
Market value

2011
6,718
£29m

2010
7,148
£30m
£422m £442m

Total
9  More information

223

62

8

293

page  
4

page  
5

page  
5

Contribution to income

Contribution to income

 £22m
8%

 £41m
 14%

9  More information see page 21

9  More information see page 22

Grainger plc

18

UK residential

Sales + rents + fees

£

Operational highlights

Regulated units owned

Other units

5,853

 1,809

Market value

£954m

Market value

£448m

Vacant possession 
value

£1,280m

Vacant possession 
value

£490m

•  Year-on-year increase in market values  
of 3.8% outperformed the Halifax  
(2.3% decrease) and Nationwide  
(0.3% decrease) indices.

•  Gross rent in 2011 of £51m. Gross rent 

running rate at 30 September 2011 £57m.

•  £89m of completed normal sales were at  

an average of 4.6% above September 2010 
valuations, 8.6% after refurbishment work 
prior to sale. 

•  Portfolio liquidity demonstrated through 
speed of sales – average 99 days from 
vacancy to receipt of cash.

•  Acquisitions of HI Tricomm and Grainger 

GenInvest LLPs increased property assets by 
£394m. Total property assets acquired £402m.

The UK residential business (UKR) primarily 
consists of properties subject to a regulated 
tenancy, the whole portfolio producing a 
gross rental yield of 4.1%. These are valued 
at 75% of vacant possession value in 
London and at 72.5% of vacant possession 
value in other locations. The portfolio is 
geographically widespread but with a 
strong concentration in London and the 
South East, where 72% by value and 59% 
by volume of these properties are situated. 

Net rental income in the year increased 
significantly to £38.4m from last year’s 
figure of £28.5m, assisted by the strategic 
portfolio acquisitions during the year of the 
HI Tricomm and Grainger GenInvest LLPs. 
(Prior to the date of acquisition of the 
remaining 50% of Grainger GenInvest our 
share of its results are reported in Fund 
Management and Residential Investments 
business below). The division also generated 
£0.5m of other income. 

During the year we generated normal sales 
of £88.5m from this portfolio (2010: £81.0m) 
producing a profit of £37.8m (2010: £37.4m). 
The margins that we achieved on normal 
sales were 42.8% (2009: 46.2%). This year 
we conducted a regional review of our 
portfolios in view of future expected returns. 
This resulted in a growth of ‘investment 
sales’ (those with a tenant in place) which 
gave £56.6m of sales with a profit of £14.6m 
(2010: sales £7.5m and profit £2.0m).  
We also made other miscellaneous sales  
of £7.3m with a profit of £2.6m. Last year, 
including a larger amount of agricultural 
sales, the miscellaneous sales figure was 
£32.4m with profit of £8.2m. 

Year end valuations were up 3.8% from the 
previous September compared to decreases 
in the Nationwide and Halifax Housing Indices 
of 0.3% and 2.3% respectively. This clearly 
illustrates the specialised nature of our 
property assets and the value we add to 
them through expert asset and property 
management. The carrying values were 
also again supported by the fact that 
completed normal sales were at values,  
on average, 4.6% above September 2010 
valuations. Refurbishment works prior to 
sale can improve returns and when these 
are taken into account we have sold at 
8.6% above September 2010 valuations. 
The liquidity of the properties was also 
demonstrated by the time taken for sale, 
measured from the date of vacancy to 
receipt of cash, being maintained at 99 days.

Other than the two specific strategic 
portfolios referred to above we were 
cautious buyers in the UK residential 
business in 2011 acquiring 44 units for 
£7.5m (2010: 308 units for £55.7m). 

Given current economic conditions our  
key criteria for purchases continue to be:

• Good prospects for long-term capital 
appreciation. This is reflected by the 
geographic spread of our purchases  
this year, with some 72% by value  
being in London and the South East. 

• Good levels of discounts and/or 

high yields. 

• Opportunities for redevelopment  

or refurbishment potential. 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

Business review

 Governance

 Financials

19

Local residents on our Moorpool Estate in 
Harborne, Birmingham

Retirement solutions

Sales + rents + fees

£

Operational highlights

Units owned

 5,902

Market value

£474m

Vacant possession 
value

£677m

•  A 50% equity stake in Sovereign Reversions 

sold to Moorfield to form our 50:50 JV. 
Moorfield paid 50% of the acquisition  
and integration costs. Management of the 
joint venture generates management fees  
for Grainger. Operational integration has 
progressed well and management of 
Sovereign assets has transferred to Newcastle.

•  Completed sales of £27.6m generating  

a profit of £10.0m

•  Acquired £14m of home reversion assets.

Future opportunities
•  We anticipate that the joint venture with 

Moorfield will look to make further acquisitions 
in the equity release sector, further enhancing 
our market-leading position.

•  Increased activity to develop IFA understanding 

of Home Reversions will strengthen our 
distribution capability and drive sales of 
Bridgewater products.

Sales proceeds in 2011, including CHARM, 
amounted to £27.6m, generating a profit 
of £10.0m (2010: sales £29.1m; profit 
£10.2m). Certain assets in the portfolio 
also produce a net rental income and 
this amounted to £3.8m in the year  
(2010: £4.1m). Other income of £0.5m 
comprises management fees from the 
Sovereign Reversions joint venture. 

The assets in this portfolio are more 
geographically widespread than the UK 
residential portfolios and do not benefit 
from the bias they have towards London 
and the South East. This is reflected in  
the valuation results for the year, which 
showed a small increase of 0.1% at 
investment value level.

We bought £14.0m of home reversion 
assets in the year. We also, early in the  
year and as noted in last year’s report  
and accounts, sold 50% of our equity 
in Sovereign to MREF II Equity Release 
Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of 
Moorfield Real Estate Fund II (‘Moorfield’), 
and entered into a 50:50 joint venture 
agreement under which Moorfield paid 
50% of the acquisition and certain 
integration costs and Grainger receives 
management fees. 

Grainger plc

20

£

Fund management  
and residential investments

Fees 

Operational highlights
•  Residential Asset management programme 
commenced with Lloyd’s Banking Group to 
establish the G:RAMP earning management 
fees for the group. There were 1,545 units 
under management at 30 September 2011.

•  Strengthening rental market has increased 

demand for properties in G:res enabling rental 
increases of 5.2% on renewals and 11.4% on 
new lets in the quarter ended September 2011.

Future opportunities 
•  We are continuing to identify and develop a 
number of opportunities to parcel residential 
and residential related assets into fund and  
joint venture structures based on our proven 
market expertise and unique breadth of 
capability from development to management 
and on to value realisation through disposal.

Profit from our Fund Management and 
Residential Investments business amounted 
to £3.6m (2010: profit £2.7m) arising from 
gross fee income of £6.3m from asset and 
property management fees from G:res 1 
(‘G:res’), G:RAMP and Grainger GenInvest, 
less allocated overheads. At the year end, 
and following our acquisition in the year  
of the remaining equity in the two Grainger 
GenInvest LLPs, the remaining equity 
investment in this division is our 21.96% 
stake in G:res which is a market rented 
fund of 2,031 units.

G:res is subject to a full external valuation 
in December and June of each year and 
showed an increase in market values  
of 5.2% for the twelve months ended  
30 June 2011, producing an increase in  
net asset value in the fund of 13.6%. 

Operational results at G:res provide a 
continuing insight into the current UK 
residential rental market. Rental increases 
on renewals amounted to 5.2% for  
the quarter ended September 2011 and 
increases on new lets for the same period 
were 11.4%. Both results indicate a 
continued strengthening of the rental 
market. The investors in this fund voted  
to extend its duration by two years to  
2013 and its controlled liquidation is under 
way as planned.

During the year, and before we acquired 
our partner’s 50% stake referred to above, 
our 50% investment in Grainger GenInvest 
was reported in this division. Prior to that 
acquisition the values in Grainger GenInvest 
increased by 2.8% in the period from  
1 October 2010. 

The controlled liquidation of the Schroder 
Residential Property Unit Trust was 
completed in the year; cash realisations 
were 6.3% in excess of the property value 
at the time of the decision of the unit 
holders taken to liquidate the fund in 
January 2009.

A significant advance in the fee earning 
element of this business in the year was 
the agreement with Lloyds Banking  
Group to establish the G:RAMP. There is  
no requirement for Grainger investment  
in this arrangement. By the year end, 
G:RAMP was proceeding to plan with 
1,545 units under management. 

€

£

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

Business review

 Governance

 Financials

21

Development

Sales + fees 

Operational highlights

Market value

£73m

Number of sites

24

In 2011 we have had the following successes:

•  Appointed as development partner at 
Aldershot with Defence Infrastructure 
Organisation. This will generate the group 
long term recurring fees.

•  Obtained planning permission at Macaulay 

Road (design led smaller scale London 
development).

•  Obtained outline planning consent at 

Waterlooville for a further 915 units bringing 
the total on which we have outline consent  
to 2,550 units.

Future opportunities 
We will focus going forward on:

•  Strategic land options, primarily in  

Southern England. 

•  Design led smaller size London developments. 

•  Larger scale joint venture partnerships.  

We will manage the development pipeline to 
deliver consistent returns through balancing 
existing larger scale opportunities with smaller 
scale developments. 

•  We play to our strengths; the quality of  

our covenants, strength of our balance sheet  
and our reputation. Together these make  
us an ideal development and joint venture 
development partner.

Sales in this division at £22.1m were similar 
to last year’s of £18.7m. The profits derived 
from this year’s sales were significantly 
increased at £15.1m (2010: £2.1m). The profits 
primarily derive from two transactions in 
central London which both yielded profits 
of c.£7m, one of which was an overage 
receipt which had no associated cost. 

During the year the business was 
appointed as development partner for the 
Aldershot Urban Extension. This is a 400 
acre brownfield site on which we intend to 
achieve outline planning permission and to 
sell serviced land-parcels to housebuilders. 
This will lead to further recurring fee 
generation from 2012. 

Artist’s impression of public green  
space at Grainger’s development site  
at Waterlooville, Hampshire

Grainger plc

22

German residential

Sales + rents 

£

Operational highlights

Market value

£422m

Units

6,718

Gross rents

£30m

•  Grainger’s German asset management 

platform covers the full range of residential 
property investment and management 
activities.

•  The JV with the Lindner Group allows  

us to offer an integrated asset and property 
management service as in the UK.

•  The income generated by the portfolio is 

predominantly market-based rental income, 
although sales of €24m were achieved this 
year including the sale of our Berlin portfolio.

Future opportunities
•  A focus on improving returns through a 
higher level of active asset management 
activities.

•  Business growth through introducing  

third party equity and generating 
management fees.

•  Capital recycling through sales and 

privatisation with assets identified for  
sale in 2012.

The German business delivered net rents 
of €25.3m (2010: €24.7m) at an annual 
net yield of 4.6% (gross yield of 7.03%) 
in a largely stable price environment. 
Property assets were written down at  
year end by €1.9m (0.4%). Our portfolio 
comprises 6,397 residential units and 321 
commercial units located predominantly in 
the South and South West of the country. 

We have undertaken a programme of 
capital recycling to improve the overall 
quality of the asset base and enhance  
cash flow. As part of this on-going process 
we sold investment assets for €24.3m 
generating a profit on sale of €1.1m in 
2011 and have identified further assets  
to be sold in 2012. 

Grainger property in Wiesbaden, 
Hesse, Germany

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

Business review

 Governance

 Financials

23

Financial review

Performance overview
Our key performance indicators are:

Operating profit before valuation movements and non-recurring items

Gross net asset value per share (pence) (NAV)

Triple net asset value per share (pence) (NNNAV)

Excess on sale of normal sales to previous valuation

Profit/(loss) before tax

Return on capital employed

Return on shareholder equity 

2011

£126.2m

216p

153p

3.7%

2010

£94.2m

200p

140p

5.7%

£26.1m

£(20.8)m

6.5%

5.3%

1 year

11.1%

5 year

(5.4)%

10 year

3.9%

Our three income streams, sales of residential properties, rental income, and fees or other income, net of property expenses and overheads 
and before valuation and non-recurring items has produced an operating profit before valuation movements (OPBVM) as follows:

UK residential portfolio

Retirement solutions portfolio

Fund management and residential 
investments

Development assets

German residential portfolio

Group and other

OPBVM – 2011

OPBVM – 2010

Net  
rents
£m

38.4

3.8

–

–

20.2

–

62.4

52.9

Profit on 
sale of assets
£m

55.0

10.0

–

15.1

0.9

–

81.0

61.5

Fees 
£m

0.5

0.5

6.3

0.4

0.3

–

8.0

6.5

Overheads/  
other/CHARM
£m

(9.7)

4.4

(2.7)

(1.1)

(3.1)

(13.0)

(25.2)

(26.7)

2011  
Total
£m

84.2

18.7

3.6

14.4

18.3

(13.0)

126.2

2010  
Total
£m

69.4

12.2

2.7

2.0

17.1

(9.2)

94.2

In the year net rents rose by 18% from £52.9m to £62.4m primarily due to contributions from our acquisitions in the year of the 
Grainger GenInvest LLPs and HI Tricomm which are both performing in line with expectations. 

Profit from sales of property including CHARM, was £81.0m compared to £61.5m in 2010 including a £1.4m release of net realisable 
value provision. This was generated from gross sales proceeds of £223m compared to £173m in 2010. This movement in volume was 
driven mainly by an increase in investment sales (properties with tenants in place) and other sales which rose from £39.9m to £63.9m. 
Overall margins rose from 34.8% to 36.3% assisted by an increased contribution from our development business. 

Fees have risen to £8.0m from £6.5m assisted by increased G:res fees (fees have been driven by increased asset values and higher rents) 
and income from both G:RAMP and the Sovereign Reversions joint venture. 

Grainger plc

24

Financial review continued

Sales and margins

Sales on vacancy

UK residential

Retirement solutions

Investment and other

Residential sales total

Development

UK total

Germany

Overall total

Full year 2011

Full year 2010

Units sold

423

217

640

607

1,247

–

1,247

438

1,685

Sales
£m

88.5

27.6

 116.2

63.9

180.1

22.1

202.2

21.1

223.3

Profit
£m

37.8

10.0

 47.8

17.2

65.0

15.1

80.1

0.9

81.0

Margin

Units sold

42.8%

36.0%

 41.2%

26.9%

36.1%

68.2%

39.6%

4.4%

36.3%

447

251

698

111

809

–

809

55

864

Sales
£m

81.0

29.1

 110.1

39.9

150.0

18.7

168.7

4.3

172.9

Profit
£m

37.4

10.2

 47.6

10.2

57.8

2.1

59.9

0.2

60.1

Margin

46.2%

35.1%

 43.3%

25.5%

38.5%

11.4%

35.5%

5.0%

34.8%

Overhead costs in 2011 at £33.1m are £2.4m higher than in 2010 (£30.7m) supporting the increase in the business represented by 
additional assets under management and to enable future growth in our management capacity.

The key elements of the movement in OPBVM are shown below:

2010 OPBVM

Increase in gross rents and other income

Increase in property expenses and overheads

Increase in residential trading profit

Increase in development trading profit

Increase in interest income from CHARM 

Other

2011 OPBVM (see note 3 to the accounts)

£m

94.2

12.9

(4.8)

6.0

12.9

5.4

(0.4)

126.2

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

Business review

 Governance

 Financials

25

Valuation movements, impairment and goodwill adjustments and non-recurring items amounted to a credit of £1.3m  
(2010: charge of £9.3m) as shown below:

Gain on acquisition of subsidiaries

Goodwill impairment

(Write down)/write back of inventories to net realisable value

Movement on impairment provisions against loans

Valuation deficit on investment properties

Transaction costs

Non-recurring overhead costs

2011
£m

16.1

(2.2)

(1.8)

(4.2)

(2.0)

(3.8)

(0.8)

1.3

2010
£m

2.8

(1.5)

2.9

(10.7)

(0.8)

–

(2.0)

(9.3)

Interest expense and similar charges
Our net interest charge has increased by £3.6m from £76.3m to £79.9m, the principal reason being debt either assumed or raised 
in connection with the acquisitions of the Grainger GenInvest LLPs and HI Tricomm and a write-off of brought forward loan costs on  
the refinancing. 

Our profit before tax and before movements on derivatives was £54.1m compared to £18.8m in 2010. 

In the second half of our financial year the yield curve for long-term interest rates showed rates staying lower and for longer. The effect 
in the full year has been to increase the group’s fair value of derivatives liability in the consolidated statement of financial position from 
£128.3m to £154.3m with a charge through the consolidated income statement of £28.0m (2010: £39.6m).

Having taken account of these derivative movements profit before tax was £26.1m compared to a loss of £20.8m in 2010. 

Tax
During the year, the group successfully concluded discussions with HM Revenue & Customs (‘HMR&C’) on a number of outstanding tax 
matters for which credit had not previously been taken. The group’s tax credit to income statement includes an exceptional tax credit of 
£10.2m relating to the agreement reached with HMR&C which assisted in giving an overall tax credit of £13.0m for the year. 

Grainger plc

26

Financial review continued

Earnings per share
Basic earnings per share is a profit of 9.5p (2010: 2.9p loss). A year-on-year reconciliation is shown below:

2010 Loss/(loss) per share

Movements in:

OPBVM

Contribution from joint ventures and associates

Fair value of derivatives

Revaluation deficits on investment properties

Provisions against trading stock values and loans

Goodwill credit

Net interest payable

Taxation and other

2011 Profit/earnings per share

£m

Pence per share

(10.8)

32.0

(3.7)

11.6

(1.2)

1.8

12.5

(3.6)

0.5

39.1

(2.9)

7.9

(0.9)

2.8

(0.3)

0.4

3.1

(0.9)

0.3

9.5

Dividend for the year
After considering the investment and working capital needs of the business the directors have recommended a final dividend per share 
of 1.30p per ordinary share (2010: 1.30p) which equates to £5.3m (2010: £4.9m). This is in addition to the return to shareholders by way 
of a tender offer earlier in the year which amounted to £2.2m. Earnings cover dividends 7.4 times.

Net asset value
We set out two measurements to better enable shareholders to compare our performance year-on-year. 

Gross net assets per share (NAV)

–  market value of net assets per share before deduction for deferred tax on 

property revaluations and before adjustments for the fair value of derivatives

216p

200p

8.2%

Triple net asset value per share (NNNAV)

–  NAV per share adjusted for deferred and contingent tax on revaluation gains and  

for the fair value of derivatives

153p

140p

9.7%

2011

2010 

Movement

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

Business review

 Governance

 Financials

27

£m

Pence per share

900

(132)

(130)

638

216

(32)

(31)

153

£m

Pence per share

832

39

57

(45)

(5)

29

(7)

900

200

9

14

(11)

(1)

7

(2)

216

£m

Pence per share

582

39

57

(45)

(5)

9

3

(2)

638

140

9

14

(11)

(1)

2

1

(1)

153

Reconciliation of NAV to NNNAV

Gross NAV

Deferred and contingent tax

Fair value of derivative adjustment net of tax

NNNAV

The major movements in NAV in the year are:

NAV at 30 September 2010

Results after tax 

Revaluation gains

Elimination of previously recognised surplus on sales

Dividends paid

Derivatives movement net of tax

Others

NAV at 30 September 2011

The major movements in NNNAV in the year are:

NNNAV at 30 September 2010

Results after tax 

Revaluation gains

Elimination of previously recognised surplus on sales

Dividends paid

Cash flow hedge reserve net of tax

Contingent tax

Others

NNNAV at 30 September 2011

Most of our properties are held as trading stock and are therefore shown in the statutory balance sheet at the lower of cost and  
net realisable value. This does not reflect the market value of the assets and so we set out below a summary of our net assets with  
the properties restated at market value.

Grainger plc

28

Financial review continued

Investment property

CHARM

Trading stock

JV/Associates

Cash

Deferred tax

Other assets

Total assets

External debt

Derivatives

Deferred tax

Other liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

30 September 2011 net assets per share (pence)

30 September 2010 net assets per share (pence)

Adjustments to 
market value, 
deferred tax 
and derivatives
£m

Statutory 
balance sheet
£m

Gross NAV 
balance sheet
£m

Deferred and 
contingent tax
£m

Derivatives
£m

Triple NAV 
balance sheet
£m

820

102

1,105

59

91

43

24

2,244

(1,545)

(154)

(48)

(110)

(1,857)

387

93

83

–

–

820

102

344

1,449

–

–

(40)

7

311

–

154

48

–

202

513

123

117

59

91

3

31

2,555

(1,545)

–

–

(110)

(1,655)

900

216

200

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(132)

–

(132)

(132)

(32)

(34)

–

–

–

(5)

–

43

–

38

–

(168)

–

–

(168)

(129)

(31)

(26)

820

102

1,449

54

91

46

31

2,593 

(1,545)

(168)

(132)

(110)

(1,955)

638

153

140

The European Public Real Estate Association (‘EPRA’) Best Practices Committee has recommended the calculation and use of an 
EPRA NAV and an EPRA NNNAV. The definitions of these measures are consistent with Gross NAV and Triple NAV as described and 
shown in the table above.

This definition of Gross NAV requires us to remove any balances for deferred tax on property revaluations and the fair value of 
derivatives as calculated under International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’). Triple NAV requires certain of these adjustments  
to be reinstated and, in addition, a deduction is made for contingent tax which is calculated by applying the expected rate of tax  
to the full inherent gains at the balance sheet date.

Market value analysis of property assets

Residential

Development

Total September 2011

Total September 2010

Shown as stock 
at cost
£m

Market value 
adjustment
£m

Market value
£m

1,025

80

1,105

1,056

351

(7)

344

332

1,376

73

1,449

1,388

Investment 
property/financial 
interest in 
property assets
£m

922

–

922

739

Total
£m

2,298

73

2,371

2,127

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

Business review

 Governance

 Financials

29

Financial resources 
The group has significantly refreshed and 
diversified its sources of finance during  
the year and up to the date of signing the 
Annual report and accounts. A total of 
£1.2bn of new debt has been secured for 
the purposes of refinancing existing debt 
and in connection with acquisitions. As at 
30 September, this has resulted in an 
average maturity of the group’s committed 
facilities of 5.5 years (2010: 3.5 years) and 
an average maturity of the group’s drawn 
debt of 5.9 years (2010: 3.6 years). 

The group has diversified its lender base 
with the addition of HSBC, Bank of 
America, Banco Santander, M&G and 
Partnership Assurance to its range of 
funders – at the same time securing large 
long-term commitments and continued 
support from its existing major lenders. 
Financing secured includes:

• A new forward start facility, signed with 
RBS, Lloyds, Barclays, Nationwide and 
HSBC, providing £840m of committed 
facilities which will be used to refinance 
the group’s existing core facilities. £606m 
of the committed £840m has a five year 
tenor, maturing in July 2016. The balance 
of the facilities matures in three years 
(£166.5m maturing December 2014), 
seven years (£7.5m maturing July 2018) 
and nine years (£60m maturing July 2020).

• Committed facilities of £120m from 

HSBC and Banco Santander to fund the 
Grainger GenInvest portfolio acquired in 
March 2011. These are five year facilities, 
£108.8 of which matures in March 2016.

• £100m from the M&G UK Companies 
Financing Fund LP, used to pay down 
existing core facilities and with a 10 year 
maturity to March 2021.

• £69m from Bank of America funding the 
HI Tricomm portfolio acquired in February 
2011. These are 17 year facilities, and 
have a final maturity date in 2028.

• £50m from Partnership Assurance 

provided through an innovative structure 
against certain of the group’s retirement 
solutions assets, non-recourse to the rest 
of the group. This facility is repayable on 
a property-by-property basis as the assets 
are sold on vacancy, with interest rolling 
up. Thus the facility exactly matches the 
cash flow characteristics of this part of 
the business, with an expected average 
maturity of 11 years. These funds have been 
used to reduce the group’s core facilities.

We announced on 24 November an 
agreement for a further £28.6m of debt 
provided by Partnership Assurance under 
similar terms to those mentioned above. 

The group’s existing core facilities were 
£1,093m on 30 September 2011, of which 
£927m were drawn. The group had free 
cash balances plus available overdraft of 
£48m and undrawn committed facilities 
of £166m at 30 September 2011. The 
core facilities have since been reduced 
to £1,043m, of which £877m were 
drawn as at 25 November 2011. The new 
forward start facility of £840m (which will 
be drawn to replace the existing facilities 
by 30 September 2012) together with 
existing free cash balances of £42m 
(as at 25 November 2011) will enable the 
group to repay the existing core facilities 
in the course of the current financial year. 
We have the flexibility through cash 
generation and new debt facilities to 
ensure the group can operate its business 
as planned and meet its strategic objectives.

current LIBOR rates and on current debt 
hedging of 73%) will be 5.8% (2010: 5.0%). 

The business has produced £254m of cash 
from its operating activities being net  
rents and other income, property sales and 
other working capital movements net of 
overheads. The largest outflow of cash is 
£71m of interest.

At the year end net debt levels had risen 
from £1,350m in 2010 to £1,454m which 
is an increase of £104m. The increase 
mainly comprises the addition of debt 
through the acquisitions noted above 
(£255m) offset by the cash generation 
referred to above net of property acquisitions 
and capital expenditure which generated 
in total net cash of £127m, with £28m of 
debt in Sovereign Reversions moving into a 
joint venture in the year. Year end net debt 
of £1,454m is £116m lower than at 31 March 
2011 when net debt was £1,570m. The 
reduction is indicative of the ability of the 
business to generate very strong cash flows. 

At 30 September 2011 gross debt was 
73% hedged (2010: 75%) of which 5.0% 
was subject to caps. 

During the year loan-to-value (LTV) on the 
core facility has fallen to 52% (2010: 54%). 
This compares to a minimum required LTV 
covenant of 75%.

At 30 September 2011 the interest cover 
ratio on the core facility stood at 3.1 times 
(2010: 2.4 times). This compares to an 
interest cover covenant of 1.35.

Following these refinancings, the group’s 
average effective cost of debt (based on 

Mark Greenwood 
Finance director 
5 December 2011

Grainger plc

30

Corporate responsibility

“Grainger’smaturing
approachisevidenceof
ourcommitmenttobeing
aCRleaderwithintheUK
residentialsector.”

Chief executive statement
Grainger is making strides towards being a 
Corporate Responsibility (CR) leader in the 
UK residential sector. The Executive Team 
and I strongly believe, and our stakeholders 
agree, that CR leadership is a hallmark of 
business resilience and maturity. 

Over the last three years we have laid a 
solid foundation for integrating CR into the 
working practices of our long-established 
business. Key achievements during 2010/11 
include estimating the carbon footprint  
of a large portion of our UK residential 
portfolio and making CR business as 
usual through benchmark performance 
measures. We demonstrate our 
commitment to transparency by improving 
our level of CR disclosure and actively 
engaging with stakeholders, from industry 
bodies, to tenants and contractors. 88% 
of the applicable 2010/11 CR targets that 
we committed to are fully achieved or are 
in progress.

Our focus for the year ahead is on making 
sure our CR programme is embedded 
across all of our business activities. We are 
committing to ambitious targets in new 
areas of our business that will deliver 
economic, social and environmental value. 
In 2011/12, each executive board member 
will take responsibility for the delivery of  
a pillar of our strategic CR framework 
ETHOS1, driving our CR activities from the 
highest levels.

I am proud to report the progress we’ve 
made during 2010/11 and the direction 
Grainger plans to take over 2011/12. 

As always, I welcome your comments and 
feedback.

Andrew R Cunningham 
Chief executive 
5 December 2011

1   Please see our full CR report or our 

dedicated CR website www.graingercr.com 
for more information.

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

Business review

 Governance

 Financials

31

Risks and opportunities

2011/12 Risks
Grainger regularly considers the changing 
landscape of sustainability risks and 
opportunities and has identified the 
following as key areas to manage. 

• Legislation: Climate change and 

environmental issues are set to continue 
to rise up the political agenda in the 
coming years. There is potential for there 
to be significant impact on our business 
through having to meet increasingly 
stringent legislative requirements. 
It is our intention to engage with 
Government to ensure that policy is 
appropriate for the private rented sector 
and that Government understands the 
complexities that varying tenure types 
and tenant demographics will have upon 
the likelihood of successfully improving 
the energy efficiency of existing housing 
stock. 

• Reputation: Stakeholders’ expectations 
of how effectively and transparently 
Grainger manages its environmental 
and socio-economic impacts continue 
to grow. For investors in particular, it is 
important to demonstrate maturity by 
reporting meaningful metrics that link  
CR to business performance.

• Physical: Rising temperatures are seen as 
inevitable. The impacts of climate change 
have not yet affected our portfolio value 
or maintenance costs, but in the long-
term there is potential across the UK 
for flooding, water stress, overheating, 
subsidence, increased weathering and 
other physical impacts such as damage 
to infrastructure. We already take some 
of these factors into account in our 
acquisition activities, though the time 
horizon for analysis varies. This year we 
intend to publish details of our processes 
and policies in this area.

• Energy costs: Rising fossil fuel based 
energy costs have direct financial 
implications for companies and are also 
likely to impact customer demand for 
less energy-efficient housing in some 
markets. Energy efficiency information, 
such as Energy Performance Certificates, 
is expected to increasingly influence 
buying and renting decisions. We are 
committed to ensuring that we fully 
understand these impacts on our various 
portfolios and to transparency in our 
reporting. 

Top: Grainger staff volunteer at the 
Vauxhall City Farm, London

Bottom: Grainger tenant, Acklington 
village, Northumberland

Grainger plc

32

Corporate responsibility continued

2011/12 Opportunities
Grainger proactively seeks opportunities 
to distinguish itself from its peers and to 
future-proof our assets in order to protect 
asset value and secure a long-term income 
stream for the business.

• Legislation: As the UK’s largest listed 

residential landlord, we are in a unique 
position to actively engage with the 
Government, directly and through 
industry bodies. Grainger can influence 
and shape future sustainability policy  
to ensure it is both practical and  
cost-effective. 

• Physical: If developed in partnership 
with industry, current Government 
proposals relating to minimum energy 
efficiency standards and the Green Deal, 
for example, offer Grainger a significant 
opportunity to upgrade our properties 
using third party funding. 

• Reputation: Community engagement 
and investment are central to the 
planning process and are likely to 
become even more so with the Localism 
Bill. A proactive approach can win 
the trust and respect of stakeholders, 
increasing success with planning 
applications and attracting potential 
employees. With operations across the 
UK, Grainger’s procurement policies can 
stimulate local economies. This year we 
are seeking to understand the make-up 
of our contractor base from a local vs. 
national supplier perspective.

• Energy costs: Externally, CR factors 
such as energy performance are 
increasingly valued into residential 
properties and investment is available 
to those companies that demonstrate 
strong leadership. Demand for high 
quality rented housing from tenants 
able to exercise choice is likely to rise 
as an increasing percentage of the UK 
population rent rather than buy. 

These risks and opportunities should be 
viewed in the context of our risk disclosure 
on pages 39 to 41.

Governance
The operations board maintains overall 
responsibility for CR – managing the risks 
associated with the delivery of our strategic 
objectives across multiple business units.  
It consists of the management team 
leading each business unit and shared 
service teams. Our chief operating officer 
chairs the monthly operations board 
meeting and reports on its activities to  
the main board of directors on a quarterly 
basis. From 2011/12, each executive board 
member will take responsibility for a pillar 
of our ETHOS strategy, driving CR from  
the highest levels. In 2010, we established 
the Green Projects Group to manage  
the opportunities and threats to Grainger 
arising from climate change. Chaired by 
our chief operating officer, this group is  
an example of how we are embedding  
our CR strategy further into the business.

Specific target delivery is assigned to 
individuals and teams throughout Grainger 
and is now integrated into individuals’ 
personal objectives each year. The operations 
board reviews progress against targets at 
least quarterly.

2010/11 Performance
In 2010/11, we set targets across all 
components of our sustainability strategy, 
aligning impact areas and business 
priorities through our ETHOS pillars.

A number of 2010/11 targets were in progress 
as of 30 September 2011. We will continue 
to work towards the achievement of all 
targets that were not completed this year. 

2010/11 performance

Not achieved
In progress
Substantially 
achieved
Achieved
Not applicable

Targetsfullyachieved
orinprogress

88%

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

Business review

 Governance

 Financials

33

2010/11 Grainger target performance  
summary by strategic focus

2010/11 Targets

Influencing  
the future

Protecting assets  
and income

Driving efficiency

Investing in 
communities & places

Responsibility to 
stakeholders

Identify the key 
sustainability policy issues 
presenting risks and 
opportunities for  
Grainger and develop 
Grainger policy positions. 

Carry out sustainability 
assessments of a sample  
of properties and use  
to model portfolio  
carbon footprint and  
sustainability risks.

Engage with Government 
and other stakeholders  
on key sustainability policy 
issues identified.

Carry out an analysis  
of which properties  
could take advantage  
of FITs, and which 
technologies are most 
suitable. Consider a  
pilot scheme.

Update and further develop 
Grainger’s Eco-Champions 
Action Plan based on  
two years of practical 
experience and best practice 
standards. Integrate with 
the Eco-Champions KPIs 
tracked in previous years  
to establish an overall 
standard for each office to 
achieve or beat this year.

With a view to reducing 
carbon emissions by  
5% from 2009/10 levels, 
undertake an internal 
awareness campaign.

Building on existing 
initiatives, produce a 
responsible procurement 
framework to cover 
property services, 
refurbishment and  
new development.

Establish a customer 
engagement programme 
by 2011 (focusing 
specifically on sharing 
environmental information 
and on community 
improvement initiatives).

Provide Property Services 
with an internal quality 
management system. 

Achieved 
Substantially achieved
In progress
Not achieved
Not applicable

Investigate tenure specific 
customer satisfaction 
indicators. Where appropriate 
indicators are identified, 
report on these at the end 
of the year.

Report carbon emissions 
from common area 
electricity usage in  
a sample of flat blocks 
based on quarterly  
meter readings.

Report on how each 
active development has 
incorporated consideration 
or development of 
renewable energy.  
Embed consideration  
of renewables into  
the acquisition, design  
and planning stages  
of development.

Identify a number of relevant 
benchmark KPIs that are most 
important to Grainger in 
driving sustainability for the 
development department. 
Identify the levels Grainger 
will aim to beat or achieve 
and add those for end of 
year reporting.

Identify a number of 
relevant benchmark KPIs 
that are most important 
to Grainger in driving 
sustainability for the 
refurbishment department. 
Identify the levels Grainger 
will aim to beat or achieve 
and add those for end of 
year reporting.

Align the 2010/11 report  
to GRI Standard level C.

Conduct health  
and safety audits for  
100% of Grainger’s 
managing agents.

Conduct health and 
safety audits for 100% 
of Grainger’s contractors 
undertaking projects  
under CDM regulations.

Implement a programme 
of activity to improve 
employee health and  
well-being in order to 
boost morale.

Grainger plc

34

Corporate responsibility continued

Notable achievements and activities 
– carbon emissions
Grainger’s first attempt to rigorously 
quantify and publish the carbon impact of 
its tenants’ building-related energy use was 
completed this year. We have produced a 
statistical estimate (95% confidence level) 
of the carbon footprint of two major 
portfolios, being UK residential (excluding 
Grainger GenInvest) and G:res.

Our modelling, based on data taken from 
Energy Performance Certificates, showed 
that UK residential (excluding Grainger 
GenInvest) homes in use contribute 
approximately 37,000 tonnes of CO2 per 
annum (+/- 3,000 tonnes). A majority of 
these properties are subject to regulated 
tenancy. G:res, primarily market-led units 
contributed 5,000 tonnes (+/- 120 tonnes). 
In contrast, Grainger’s own offices and 
travel generate only approximately 
677 tonnes CO2e.

UK residential includes distinct property 
types. The majority of the units (5,700), 
on average, produced annually 5.7 to 6.7 
tonnes of CO2 each. However, a distinct 
subgroup of the portfolio of 550 units, 
is much more efficient, producing on 
average just 2.5-2.7. The G:res portfolio is 
also fairly efficient on average with carbon 
emissions of 3.0 to 3.2 tonnes per unit. 
That CO2 from most UK residential units 
is, on average, twice that of the average 
G:res unit, clearly demonstrates the 
difference between property types within 
the two portfolios. UK residential figures 
are in line with estimates for average 

housing stock in England (English Housing 
Survey). Grainger’s UK residential portfolio 
is a fair proxy for the houses which 
Government aims to increase the efficiency 
of by 2020 (UK Climate Change Act 2008).

Grainger’s understanding of the complex 
interaction between tenure type, tenant 
demographics and the market demand for 
various energy efficiency incentives, gives 
us a strong and credible basis to engage 
Government and others on shaping energy 
efficiency legislation and modelling its 
likely impact. 

Relative annual estimated carbon emissions of Grainger’s business activities (CO2e) 
and emissions of portfolios it owns or manages (CO2)1, 2 

Grainger business activities

Residential Portfolios

o li o  – 

f

t

r

o

t i a l p
u m
n

7 , 0 0 0 t o

n

n

e
r  a

s i d
e
U K  r
e
C O 2 p
c . 3

s

e

n

n

Air
Air
travel
travel

Rail
Rail
travel
travel

Car
Car
travel
travel

Office
Office
electricity
electricity

G:res
G:res
1,600 units
1,600 units

UK residential 
UK residential 
(excluding Grainger 
(excluding Grainger 
GenInvest)
GenInvest)
6,250 units
6,250 units

1   CO2 emission predictions provided by Energy Performance Certificate include heating, lighting and hot 

water. CO2 from appliances such as ranges, refrigerators, televisions are not included in the calculation of 
building related emissions.

2   The chart shown here illustrates the central estimate of emissions for Grainger’s portfolio and does not 

include the full confidence interval range referenced in the text.

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

Business review

 Governance

 Financials

35

Graingerofficesandtravel–
CO2eperannum

677tonnes

G:resportfolio–CO2perannum

c.5,000tonnes

Over the next year we intend to further 
improve the quality and quantity of the data 
that we can capture, to refine our model 
and to explore ways to extend our modelling 
to other portfolios, particularly those within 
Retirement Solutions. We will also seek to 
use this data to engage with stakeholders 
and Government to understand and 
influence thinking in this vital area. 

We continue to measure and report on  
the carbon emissions associated with our 
operations, including travel. Our office  

and business car travel are by far the most 
significant areas of operational impact that 
we measure.

Grainger has a Green Travel Policy to reduce 
carbon emissions associated with business 
travel wherever possible. We will continue 
to promote this policy and green office 
practices among staff during 2011/12 to 
reduce our carbon impact. We also conducted 
a Green Travel Survey among staff during 
2010/11 and will use the results to identify 
areas where Grainger could encourage the 
use of green forms of transport.

From 2009/10 to 2010/11

Measure

Progress

 •  Carbon emissions from 

office electricity

Carbon emissions from office electricity consumption 
increased marginally by 1%.

 •  Annual electricity 

consumption

 •  Carbon intensity 
per employee

We are proud to note that four out of our seven offices 
achieved reductions in annual electricity consumption. For 
example, our Frankfurt and Putney offices managed 
reductions of 10% and 5% respectively.

We reduced our carbon intensity related to office  
electricity (per employee) by 10% between 2009/10 and 
2010/11 (employee numbers increased 12%). 

 •  Carbon emissions 

from travel

Emissions associated with air, rail and car travel rose,  
air and car by over 10 tonnes each.

• Efficiency of car fleet

Average efficiency of our fleet cars increased by 8%.

Grainger plc

36

Corporate responsibility continued

Officeelectricityperemployee

down10%

Carbon emissions1

Source

Tonnes of carbon emissions  
(CO2e) from office electricity 
consumption (lighting and  
small power)2

2007/8

329 

2008/9

309

2009/10

2010/11

350

352

Tonnes of carbon emissions  
(CO2e) from energy use in common 
parts of residential portfolio

Not  
measured

Not  
measured 

Tonnes of carbon emissions  
(CO2e) from air travel

Tonnes of carbon emissions  
(CO2e) from rail travel

Tonnes of carbon emissions  
(CO2) from car travel

Average carbon emissions level of 
cars in Grainger’s fleet (g/km)

62

13

31

26

Not  
measured

Not  
measured

155

139

49

23

37

228

146

Not  
measured

35 

41

249

134

1   Detailed data notes for carbon emission calculations are available in our online CR report, available at 

www.graingercr.com.

2   All office electricity CO2 figures prior to 2010/11 have been recalculated using the same emissions factor 

from DEFRA 2011 guidance to highlight energy efficiency changes in Grainger’s operations.

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

Business review

 Governance

 Financials

37

Notable achievements – other areas  
of performance and benchmark KPIs
Protecting assets and income
• Our customers are increasingly satisfied 
with the repairs service provided by our 
contractors, both in terms of punctuality 
and overall level of service. 

Driving efficiency
• We reduced our annual electricity 

consumption at four out of our seven 
offices between 2009/10 and 2010/11 
and our carbon intensity (per employee) 
by 10%.

Investing in communities and places
• The number of staff involved in 

volunteering activities in company time 
doubled from 31 to 60.

• Grainger and staff donated £55,548 to 

charitable causes in 2010/11, even higher 
than our record value of £50,785 in 
2009/10.

Responsibility to stakeholders
• Over half of our technical or professional 
positions are filled by women and the 
percentage of senior management 
positions filled by women continues to 
increase (8% in 2007/08 and 16% in 
2010/11).

• Grainger invested £625 in training per 

employee in 2010/11, lower than during 
our training drive in 2009/10, but higher 
than in 2007/08 and 2008/09.

• Almost all staff rate Grainger as a good 
employer, with 72% describing the 
company as extremely or very good.

• No reportable health and safety accidents 

or incidents among our employees, 
contractors or subcontractors.

• No health and safety fines or pollution 

incidents in the last year.

CR focus areas for next year
• Investigating our CR impact through  

the supply chain.

• Continuing to embed CR across all 

business lines and at all levels.

• Influencing Government legislation 

and thinking regarding availability and 
sustainability of housing.

• Increasing our awareness of customer 

satisfaction through surveys and 
complaints procedure.

• Using our Centenary as a platform 
to increase impact of community 
based activities, particularly charitable 
giving and our work in Newcastle and 
to increase awareness of Grainger’s 
capability to contribute to issues 
regarding the future of the residential 
sector – Grainger = Residential.

• Minimising the environmental and 
community impact of our active 
developments as schemes and major 
refurbishments get underway in 
2011/12.

Advisor’s statement
Upstream Sustainability Services, part of 
Jones Lang LaSalle, has advised Grainger 
plc on its Corporate Responsibility strategy 
for several years. This programme of  
work includes helping Grainger set its CR 
targets, and assessing target achievement 
at year end.

Due to Upstream’s long-standing 
relationship with Grainger, the review  
of performance against targets and this 
statement itself cannot be considered  
as fully independent, nor should any data 
be viewed as formally verified. However, 
Upstream has carried out a full and 
documented review of Grainger’s 
performance and management of 
sustainability over the company’s financial 
year (1 October 2010 – 30 September 
2011). All information presented is accurate 
to the best of our knowledge.

The method for assessing Grainger’s level 
of performance against CR targets and 
commitments was based on:

• Face-to-face meetings and telephone 

interviews with Grainger representatives 
responsible for target delivery.

• Detailed review of documentation and 
information submitted by Grainger and 
collected by Upstream over the year.

Grainger plc

38

Corporate responsibility continued

Grainger has completed the first stage  
of the sustainability journey successfully, 
putting in place a strong foundation of  
CR policy and reporting. The next step is  
to win the hearts and minds of Grainger 
employees beyond the committed core 
who have driven CR achievements to date. 
We are encouraged that engagement  
with and support for the implementation 
of the CR strategy grew in the last year. 
Accountability is increasing throughout  
the business with the addition of CR 
targets into performance agreements. 
Executive board members are providing 
further momentum by taking responsibility 
for the success of each ETHOS pillar. 

We look forward to seeing Grainger 
actively manage and increase business 
value from CR through its ambitious 
2011/12 targets, which are clearly linked  
to core business strategy.

Lora Brill  
Senior sustainability consultant 

Jones Lang LaSalle,  
Upstream Energy and Sustainability Services 

5 December 2011

Each target is rated for achievement,  
based on the evidence received to validate 
completion. Upstream makes the following 
specific findings:

• Grainger aligned its CR report with GRI 
Level C this year. Grainger continues to 
increase transparency to gain the trust  
of its stakeholders. 

• The percentage of applicable targets 

either fully or partially achieved during 
2010/11 was in line with 2009/10 at 88%. 

• However, the percentage of applicable 
targets that Grainger fully achieved 
dropped from 70% in 2009/10 to 44% 
in 2010/11. Seven targets are currently 
in progress, although it is important to 
note that four of these are substantially 
achieved. 

• Grainger performed well in the area  

of ‘Influencing the future’, achieving the 
two applicable targets. The sustainable 
procurement target was deemed not 
applicable due to Grainger’s decision to 
adopt a case-by-case approach and use 
existing frameworks where appropriate. 

• Under ‘Protecting assets & income’, 

Grainger’s success this year in modelling 
the carbon footprint and sustainability 
risks of its UK residential portfolio is a 
significant achievement.

• The two 2010/11 targets that were 
not achieved sat within the ‘Driving 
efficiency’ pillar. Grainger has decided 
not to pursue an internal quality 
management system, as there is 
insufficient business need. However, 
Grainger has re-set itself a 2011/12  
focus on the collection of electricity 
readings for the common parts areas  
of its flat block properties.

Looking ahead to 2011/12, Upstream 
recommends that Grainger pay particular 
attention to its customer satisfaction 
ratings. Tenant satisfaction is a vital CR 
area for the business but has suffered 
during 2010/11.

Grainger aspires to be a Corporate 
Responsibility leader in the UK residential 
sector. Most of the company’s global 
warming impact is from tenants living  
in Grainger’s homes. We particularly 
commend the company for estimating  
the carbon footprint of its buildings  
from tenant use. Establishing a baseline  
is crucial to managing carbon emissions 
improvements. We eagerly look forward  
to how Grainger will use this data to  
drive change internally and in the wider 
residential sector. 

Upstream fully recognises the resource 
challenges that Grainger faced during 
2010/11 and commends the progress 
made in CR given the increased work  
load of property management staff in 
particular. Aligning Grainger’s annual 
targets to its commercial priorities will 
continue to be essential in an ambitious, 
growth-oriented business where staff  
have many demands on their time.

 
Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

Business review

 Governance

 Financials

39

Risk management
Riskmanagementfacilitatesbusinessdecision-making
basedonstructuredjudgements.

Risk reporting framework

Grainger plc Board

Group Audit 
Committee

Executive Risk  
Committee

Group 
Internal 
Audit

Business 
Unit Boards

Operations 
Board

Business Unit/Shared Service 
Management Teams

Grainger staff

Risk is a recognised part of the Group’s 
every day activities. Risk management 
is viewed as the systematic identification 
and treatment of those risks that pose a 
threat to our business, people, assets, 
capital and reputation. It is a process used 
to identify risks across Grainger plc, its 
subsidiaries and associates (the ‘group’).  
It assesses the potential impact of these 
risk events and then provides a method  
for addressing these impacts, to manage 
and mitigate threats. Risk management  
is an important component of corporate 
governance and helps to encourage 
continuous quality improvement.

The Grainger plc board is ultimately 
responsible for the group’s risk management 
framework. It regularly reviews the group’s 
key risks and in the period to the year end 
date, has been supported in the discharge 
of this responsibility by various committees, 
specifically the audit committee and the 
executive risk committee. Subsequent to 
the year end a risk committee has been 
established under the chairmanship of 
Belinda Richards.

Risk management framework

The risk reporting framework enables 
a two way approach to monitoring and 
reporting risk across the group. 

The overall aim of risk management is 
to enable the business to base all material 
business decisions on judgements by 
competent people reached following a 
structured and documented review. 
The Risk Management Framework has 
been designed to support this policy and 
to incorporate the full range of risks faced 
across the group. 

A categorisation of risk has been  
adopted to enable a rigorous and 
comprehensive approach to risk 
assessment. The categorisation adopted  
is intended to be relatively simple and easy 
to use and to best reflect the characteristics 
of the group and the risks it faces. Risks are 
categorised as Market & Strategy, Project 
Assurance, Operational, Financial and Legal 
& Regulatory. Responsibility for each risk 
category is assigned to one of the four 
executive directors. 

Grainger Risk Management Policy

Market  
& Strategic  
Risk

Financial  
Risk

Operational 
Risk

Project 
Assurance  
Risk

Legal & 
Regulatory  
Risk

Independent monitoring 
Risk based monitoring plan. External verification. Key control checks.

Description and relevance to strategy  Mitigation and management action

Change in  
Net Risk in year

Grainger plc

40

Risk management continued

Principal risks
The principal risks faced by the Group are:

Risk and executive lead 
Market &  
Strategic Risk  
Andrew Cunningham

Long term flat or negative  
House Price Inflation depresses 
income from sales.

A rapid further decline in house 
prices and/or mortgage availability 
increases difficulties in maintaining 
sales income.

Financial Risk  
Mark Greenwood

Limited availability of further  
capital constrains the growth  
of our business.

A significant misappropriation  
or fraud could damage the  
financial performance of the  
group and its reputation.

Insufficient or inappropriate  
levels of suitably skilled staff  
hinder achievement of our  
strategic objectives.

Operational Risk  
Peter Couch

•  Rebalance owned portfolios towards 
areas of higher economic growth.

•  Grow non-HPI dependent income streams.

•  Continue to grow alternative  

income streams.

•  Focus sales on markets that are not 

mortgage dependent.

•  Regular scenario planning and active 

management of debt levels.

•  Cash flow and funding needs are 
continuously monitored to ensure 
sufficient headroom available.

•  Ongoing area of strategic priority, 

particularly building on our successful 
refinancing strategy and focusing on 
reducing our requirement for debt in  
the near to medium term.

•  Policies and procedures designed to 
control risk are in place and regularly 
monitored.

•  New Bribery and Corruption policy  

and procedures introduced.

•  A comprehensive review of our 

remuneration structures and benchmarking 
against external markets has been carried 
out this year. 

•  Performance management procedures 
and annual appraisals are in place for  
all staff.

•  Long-term incentive schemes for senior 
staff and opportunities for all staff to 
become equity owners through SIP and 
SAYE schemes.

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

Business review

 Governance

 Financials

41

Risk and executive lead 
Operational Risk 
continued  

Description and relevance to strategy  Mitigation and management action

Change in  
Net Risk in year

Inadequate assessment of  
and action planning for health  
and safety risks. 

•  We have dedicated and experienced 

Health and Safety staff to implement  
the company’s management procedures, 
which include regular risk assessments 
and audits to pro-actively address health 
and safety risks areas including health  
and safety risks affecting our staff, 
contractors and tenants.

Key third party contractor/supplier 
failure may lead to business 
disruption, additional costs and 
operational risks.

•  Monitoring of supplier and subcontractor 
performance through regular assessments, 
market testing and maintenance of 
alternative sources of supply.

Project Assurance Risk 
Andrew Cunningham 

Projects fail to deliver expected 
benefits through poor initiation  
or management.

Legal and  
Regulatory Risk 
Mark Greenwood

Significant regulatory changes may 
impact on the value of the group’s 
assets, its strategy and profitability.

•  We conduct extensive initial checks on 
new suppliers in accordance with their 
strategic importance to the company.

•  Project initiation is subject to appropriate 
governance and business case controls. 
Ongoing progress and management 
monitored at project and Operational 
Board level. Lessons learned exercises 
carried out on all projects prior to formal 
closedown.

•  Grainger is an active member of groups 

and committees (BPF, HBF, EPRA, CBI etc) 
which seek to influence Government and 
EEU policy.

•  In-house teams (legal, compliance, corporate 

affairs etc) are tasked with identifying 
changes in legislation and regulation in 
order to identify potential impact and if 
necessary initiate lobbying activity.

We monitor the status of each of our principal risks and identify whether the net risk has increased, decreased or remains  
unchanged from last year. Net risk refers to the likelihood and impact of the risk after mitigating actions have been taken.

No change in Net Risk

Increased Net Risk

Decreased Net Risk

Grainger plc

42

The Grainger board

Robin Broadhurst* CVO, CBE, FRICS 
Chairman. Aged 65

Andrew R Cunningham FCA 
Chief executive. Aged 55

Mark Greenwood FCMA 
Finance director. Aged 52

Robin joined the board in February 2004 and 
was appointed chairman in February 2007. 
Previously European chairman of Jones Lang 
LaSalle, he is now a trustee and non-executive 
director of Grosvenor, property consultant to 
Sir Robert McAlpine Limited and a 
non-executive director of the British Library 
and Chelsfield Partners.

Committee membership:
Chairman of nominations committee.

Andrew joined Grainger in 1996 as finance 
director, became deputy chief executive in 
December 2002, and chief executive in October 
2009. A fellow of the Institute of Chartered 
Accountants in England and Wales, Andrew  
was a partner in a predecessor firm of  
PricewaterhouseCoopers before joining 
Grainger. Andrew is a member of the British 
Property Federation’s Policy Committee.

Mark joined the board as finance director in 
September 2010. A fellow of the Chartered 
Institute of Management Accountants, 
Mark has worked in finance since 1982 and 
held a number of senior positions within Alfred 
McAlpine Plc from 1989 to 2008. He was group 
finance director from 2007 until its takeover in 
2008 by Carillion. From 2008 to 2010 Mark was 
finance director of the Middle East and North 
Africa business of Carillion plc.

Robert R S Hiscox* ACII 
Aged 68

John Barnsley* FCA 
Aged 63

Henry Pitman*  
Aged 49

Robert was appointed a director of the company 
in March 2002. He is chairman of Hiscox Limited 
and was deputy chairman of Lloyd’s from 1993 
to 1995.

Committee membership:
Member of nominations and remuneration 
committees.

John was appointed a director of the company 
in 2003. He is a non-executive director of 
Northern Investors Company plc, American 
Appraisal Associates LLP and LMS Capital plc 
and the chairman of Westover Medical Limited. 
Until December 2001 he was a senior partner 
at PricewaterhouseCoopers. 

Henry was appointed a director in May 2007. 
He is currently chairman of African Century, an 
African investment business. Previously he was 
chief executive of Tribal Group plc. Prior to this, 
he was managing director of JHP Group Limited. 
From 1990 to 1995 he worked for the Property 
Corporation of South Africa.

Committee membership:
Senior Independent Director, chairman of audit 
committee and member of nominations committee. 

Committee membership:
Member of remuneration committee.

*Non-executive directors

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

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 Financials

43

Nick Jopling 
Executive director. Aged 50

Peter Couch 
Executive director. Aged 53

Nick joined Grainger plc in September 2010 
as executive director with responsibility for 
property matters from CB Richard Ellis where 
he was executive director of residential. 
Nick’s responsibility covers Grainger’s UK 
residential portfolio, development and fund 
management business units. Nick is also the 
chairman of the Urban Land Institute’s UK 
Residential Product Council. 

Peter Couch was appointed to the board as 
executive director responsible for Grainger’s 
retirement solutions business in June 2010. 
He also acts as chief operating officer, a position 
he was appointed to in 2009. Peter joined 
Grainger in 2005 to manage the company’s 
retirement solutions business. Prior to joining 
Grainger, Peter spent most of his career in the 
financial services sector and held several senior 
roles within the AMP Group.

Baroness Margaret Ford*  
Aged 53

Belinda Richards*  
Aged 53

Tony Wray* 
Aged 50

Margaret was appointed a director of the 
company in July 2008. She has, since 2009, 
been the chairman of the Olympic Park Legacy 
Company. From 2007 to 2009, she was a 
managing director in the Royal Bank of Canada’s 
Global Infrastructure Group and between 2002 
and 2007 was chairman of English Partnerships.

Committee membership:
Member of audit committee and chairman of 
remuneration committee. 

Belinda was appointed a director in April 2011. 
Prior to joining the board she was Global Head 
of Deloitte’s Merger Integration and Separation 
Advisory Services. She is also a non-executive 
director of Friends Life Group plc.

Committee membership:
Member of audit and remuneration committees. 
Chairman designate to risk committee.

Tony was appointed a director in October 2011. 
He has been the Chief Executive of FTSE 100 
water company Severn Trent plc since 2007. 

Committee membership:
Member of audit committee. 

Grainger plc

44

Corporate governance report

Compliance with the UK Corporate Governance Code
The board of Grainger is committed to maintaining high standards 
of corporate governance, which the directors see as fundamental 
to effective management of the business and delivery of 
long-term shareholder value.

The governance rules applicable to all UK companies admitted to 
the Official List of the UK Listing Authority are set out in the UK 
Corporate Governance Code (the ‘Code’), published by the 
Financial Reporting Council. The board fully supports the 
principles set out in the Code and confirms that it has complied 
with all of the provisions of the Code throughout the financial 
year ended 30 September 2011.

This report sets out Grainger’s governance policies and practices 
and includes details of how the group applies the principles and 
complies with the provisions of the Code.

The role of the board
The board provides leadership of the group and, either directly or 
through the operation of committees of directors and delegated 
authority, applies independent judgement on matters of strategy, 
performance, resources (including key appointments) and 
standards of behaviour. The board sets the group’s strategic 
objectives and approves and monitors business plans and budgets 
submitted by the executive directors and senior management.

The written statement of matters reserved to the board is 
reviewed and approved annually by the board and a copy is 
available on the group’s website www.graingerplc.co.uk or from 
the company secretary on request.

Board composition, structure and roles
At the date of this report the board consists of a non-executive 
chairman, the chief executive, the chief operating officer, the 
property director, the finance director and six non-executive 
directors.

Bill Tudor John resigned as a non-executive director on  
9 February 2011.

Belinda Richards was appointed to the Board as an independent 
non-executive director on 05 April 2011 and Tony Wray was 
appointed as an independent non-executive director on 
24 October 2011.

Referring to the findings of the Davies Report ‘Women on Boards’ 
we have over the last three and a half years appointed two 
women to the board as non-executive directors. As at 30 
September 2011 33% of the non-executive directors and 20% of 
the total board were women. We would expect to at least 

maintain these levels over the next few years subject always to 
there being suitable directors with the appropriate quality available.

The board reviews non-executive director independence on an 
annual basis and takes into account the individual’s professional 
characteristics, their behaviour at board meetings and their 
contribution to unbiased and independent debate.

All of the non-executive directors are considered by the board to 
be independent.

We are aware that, for some investors, length of non-executive 
director’s service beyond nine years will prejudice their 
independence.

Robert Hiscox who will be retiring from the board at the AGM in 
February 2012 has served as a director since March 2002 and John 
Barnsley, the senior independent director, has served on the board 
since February 2003.

The board believe that both Robert Hiscox and John Barnsley 
continue to exercise a degree of rigorous enquiry and intellectual 
challenge in respect of their roles as non-executive directors and 
as such continue to regard them as independent.

Their continuity of service has been, and continues to be of 
considerable benefit to the company through a period of 
significant change in both the executive and non-executive 
directors and provides an important knowledge link with the past 
and an in-depth understanding of the company which is 
considered to be highly beneficial to the board. Further, this 
enhanced duration of service is complimentary to the longer term 
business cycle applicable to the Grainger business model.

The board consisted of a majority of independent non-executive 
directors (excluding the chairman) throughout the year. 
Biographical details of all the current directors are set out on 
pages 42 and 43.

The posts of chairman and chief executive are separate and their 
roles and responsibilities are clearly established, set out in writing 
and agreed by the board. A copy of the written statement of roles 
is available on the group’s website www.graingerplc.co.uk or from 
the company secretary on request.

The chairman is responsible for running the board and ensuring its 
effectiveness. The chief executive reports to the chairman, as does 
the company secretary on matters of corporate governance. The 
chairman is the guardian of the board’s decision making and is 
responsible for ensuring a constructive relationship between 
executive and non-executive directors and for fostering a culture 
of challenge and debate in the boardroom.

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

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Governance

 Financials

45

The chief executive is responsible for running the business and 
implementing the board’s decisions. All executive directors report 
to him. Peter Couch, the group’s chief operating officer, is 
responsible for day-to-day management of the group’s operations 
in accordance with the strategy and business plans set by the 
board. The chief operating officer chairs a monthly operations 
board meeting made up of the senior management team which 
also includes the finance and property directors.

The non-executive directors are responsible for bringing 
independent and objective judgement and scrutiny to all matters 
before the board and its committees, using their substantial and 
wide ranging experience. The key responsibilities of non-executive 
directors are set out in their letters of appointment and include 
requirements to:

• Challenge and contribute to the development of the company’s 

strategy;

• Scrutinise the performance of management in meeting agreed 
goals and objectives and monitor the reporting of performance; 
and 

• Satisfy themselves that financial information is accurate and that 
financial controls and systems of risk management are robust 
and defensible.

A copy of the standard letter of appointment for a non-executive 
director is available on the group’s website www.graingerplc.co.uk 
or from the company secretary on request. The non-executive 
directors meet periodically without the executive directors present. 
There were two such meetings in the year and an additional 
meeting of the non-executive directors without the chairman or 
the executive directors present.

Bill Tudor John was the senior independent director until his 
retirement from the Board at the AGM on 09 February 2011, 
when he was replaced as senior independent director by John 
Barnsley. The senior independent director is available to 
shareholders if they request a meeting or have concerns, which 
contact through the normal channels has failed to resolve or 
where such contact is inappropriate. No such requests were 
received from shareholders during the year. The senior 
independent director leads the annual performance review of the 
chairman.

Meetings
There were six meetings of the board in the year. The board has a 
list of matters reserved to it and a rolling annual plan of items for 
discussion, agreed between the chairman and the chief executive. 
The list of reserved matters and annual plan are reviewed regularly 
to ensure all matters reserved to the board, as well as other key 

issues, are discussed at the appropriate time. At each board 
meeting the chief executive provided a review of the business, 
how it was performing and strategic issues arising. In the year the 
range of subjects discussed included:

• The strategy of the group in response to changing economic 

conditions;

• Key business areas, including Germany, retirement solutions, 

residential and funds;

• The group’s debt and capital structure;

• The group’s financial results;

• Dividend policy;

• Regulatory and governance issues; and

• The development of the group’s people.

Three of the meetings were preceded, the evening before, by an 
informal meeting allowing more time to debate issues in depth. 
Two of the board meetings were held at the company’s head 
office in Newcastle and three of the board meetings were held in 
the company’s offices in Knightsbridge. The meeting on 28 June 
2011 was held in a central London hotel to coincide with a full 
day’s meeting of senior management – giving the board the 
opportunity to engage with key staff on a range of issues.

All directors attended all board meetings during their relevant 
periods of office except for Robert Hiscox, Baroness Margaret Ford 
and Belinda Richards who were each not present at one meeting.

Information Flow
The chairman, together with the company secretary, ensures that 
the directors receive clear information on all relevant matters in a 
timely manner. Board papers are circulated sufficiently in advance 
of meetings for them to be thoroughly digested in advance of the 
meeting to ensure clarity of informed debate. The board papers 
contain the chief executive’s written report, high level papers on 
each business area, key metrics and specific papers relating to 
agenda items. The board papers are accompanied by a working 
papers pack containing detailed financial and other supporting 
information.

The board receives a bi-weekly update throughout the year and 
occasional ad hoc papers on matters of particular relevance or 
importance. Throughout the year the board received 
presentations from various business units. 

Grainger plc

46

Corporate governance report continued

Time commitment
The board is satisfied that the chairman and each of the non-
executive directors committed sufficient time during the year to 
enable them to fulfil their duties as directors of the company. 
None of the non-executive directors has any conflict of interest 
which has not been disclosed to the board in accordance with the 
company’s articles of association.

Professional development
The chairman is responsible for ensuring that induction and 
training are provided to each director and the company secretary 
organises the induction process and regular updating and training 
of board members. 

Belinda Richards was appointed in the year and received a 
comprehensive, tailored induction to the company. This consisted 
of the provision of a corporate handbook covering such items as 
matters reserved for the board, division of responsibility between 
the chairman and chief executive and the terms of reference of 
the various board committees as well as individual sessions with 
members of the senior management team. Belinda Richards was 
also taken on a property tour to enable her to see some of the 
company’s properties – ranging from the core regulated portfolio 
through to some of the development activities.

Tony Wray is undertaking a similar induction process.

Training and updating as to the business of the group and the 
legal and regulatory responsibilities of directors was provided 
throughout the year by a variety of means to board members 
including presentations by executives, visits to business operations 
and circulation of briefing materials. Individual directors are also 
expected to take responsibility for identifying their training needs 
and to ensure they are adequately informed about the group and 
their responsibilities as a director.

The board is confident that all its members have the knowledge, 
ability and experience to perform the functions required of a 
director of a listed company.

Access to independent advice
All directors have access to the advice and services of the company 
secretary who ensures that board processes are followed and 
good corporate governance standards are maintained. Any 
director who considers it necessary or appropriate may take 
independent, professional advice at the company’s expense. None 
of the directors sought such advice in the year.

and its individual directors. The 2011 review was undertaken by 
Independent Audit Limited (Independent Audit), an independent 
firm of consultants who specialise in board performance and 
corporate governance and who were appointed to undertake a 
thorough independent review of the board and its committees. 
The process involved a review of information provided to the 
board and committees followed by confidential interviews with 
the directors, the company secretary together with senior 
members of the management team, and observation of a board 
meeting and meetings of the remuneration, audit and 
nominations committees.

Independent Audit’s report concluded that there was considerable 
evidence to show that the board and its committees are effective. 
Areas which will be developed further over the coming year 
include:

• Strategic messaging 

• Risk related work

• Succession planning 

• Board information

The board and its committees will monitor progress and continue 
their critical review of its effectiveness during the year ahead. 

In accordance with the prevailing provisions of the Code, it is the 
current intention of the board that external facilitation of the 
board evaluation will be carried out every three years.

Re-election of directors
Notwithstanding that the company’s articles of association require 
the directors to offer themselves for re-election at least once every 
three years, in accordance with the recommendations of the Code 
all of the directors (except for Robert Hiscox) will be offering 
themselves for re-election at the Annual General Meeting in 
February 2012.

In light of the performance evaluations summarised above and the 
provisions of the company’s articles of association, the board 
recommends that all of the directors be re-elected. 

Board committees
The board delegates some of its activities to the following 
committees each of which have written terms of reference, which 
are available on the company’s web site, and which report back to 
the board. The company secretary acts as secretary to each of 
these committees.

Performance evaluation
In previous years the board has undertaken formal evaluations, led 
by the chairman, of the performance of its board, its committees 

Audit committee and auditor independence 
The audit committee comprised John Barnsley as chairman, 
Baroness Margaret Ford and one other non-executive director 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

Governance

 Financials

47

for most of the year. Bill Tudor John was a member of the audit 
committee up to 09 February 2011 when he retired from the 
board. Belinda Richards and Tony Wray became members of the 
committee on 5 April 2011 and 22 November 2011 respectively.

The audit committee met four times in the year, in each case with 
all members of the committee present save that Bill Tudor John 
did not attend the meeting in November 2010. Both John Barnsley 
and Belinda Richards have the particular recent and relevant 
financial experience required by the Code.

In addition to the work referred to in the section ‘Internal Control’ 
below, the audit committee is responsible for reviewing the 
independence and objectivity of the external auditor, and ensuring 
this is safeguarded notwithstanding any provision of any 
non-audit services to the group.

In addition to the steps taken by the board to safeguard auditor 
objectivity, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP operates a five-year 
rotation policy for audit partners.

The audit committee give careful consideration before appointing 
the auditors to provide non audit advice and regularly use other 
providers to ensure that independence and full value for money 
are achieved. £317,000 was paid to PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP 
for such services, the main element of which was £185,000 
relating to financial due diligence work on acquisitions during the 
year. These fees were one-off in nature and are not expected to 
reoccur.

The audit committee is responsible for reviewing and reporting to 
the board on the accounting policies and practices of the group 
and on the annual and half-yearly financial reporting process.

The board recognises the importance of safeguarding auditor 
objectivity and has taken the following steps to ensure that 
auditor independence is not compromised:

The audit committee reviewed the company’s whistleblowing 
policy and was satisfied that this meets FSA rules and good 
standards of corporate governance.

• The audit committee carries out each year a full evaluation of 
the external auditor as to its complete independence from the 
group and relevant officers of the group in all material respects 
and that it is adequately resourced and technically capable to 
deliver an objective audit to shareholders. Based on this review 
the audit committee recommends to the board each year the 
continuation, or removal and replacement, of the external 
auditor;

• The external auditors provide audit-related services such as 

regulatory and statutory reporting as well as formalities relating 
to shareholders and other circulars;

• The external auditors may undertake due diligence reviews 
and provide assistance on tax and pension matters given its 
knowledge of the group’s businesses. Such provision will 
however be assessed on a case-by-case basis so that the best 
placed adviser is retained. The audit committee monitors the 
application of policy in this regard and keeps the policy under 
review;

• The audit committee reviews on a regular basis all fees paid 
for audit, and all consultancy fees, with a view to assessing 
reasonableness of fees, value of delivery, and any independence 
issues that may have arisen or may potentially arise in the future; 
and

• The auditors report to the directors and the audit committee 
confirming their independence in accordance with Auditing 
Standards.

The finance director and external audit partner are invited to 
attend meetings of the committee. Question and answer sessions 
were held by the committee with members of staff managing key 
business areas including risk and taxation. These sessions assist the 
committee to question risk in the business and to stay close to 
staff who have significant control responsibilities.

Once in each year the audit committee meets with management 
without the auditors present and also with the auditors without 
management present.

Remuneration committee
The remuneration committee comprises four independent 
non-executive directors. Baroness Margaret Ford (chairman), 
Robert Hiscox, Henry Pitman and Belinda Richards. Belinda 
Richards joined the committee in May 2011.

The committee’s main duties are to determine the basic salary, 
taxable benefits, terms and conditions of employment, including 
performance related payments, share options and pension 
benefits of the executive directors.

The committee is also responsible for the operation of the 
company’s share options schemes and for monitoring the 
framework for the policy on, and levels of remuneration of the 
company’s senior management.

Grainger plc

48

Corporate governance report continued

A separate executive directors’ committee sets, after discussion 
with the chairman, the fees of the non-executive directors.

The report of the remuneration committee is set out on pages 
50 to 56.

Nominations committee
The nominations committee comprises Robin Broadhurst 
(chairman), John Barnsley and Robert Hiscox. John Barnsley joined 
the committee on 09 February 2011. Bill Tudor John was a 
member until 09 February 2011 when he retired from the board 
at the Annual General Meeting.

The nominations committee reviews the size, balance and 
constitution of the board, formulates plans for succession for both 
executive and non-executive directors and recommends to the 
board as to whether directors retiring by rotation should be 
nominated for re-election by the members.

Appointments to the board are recommended following an 
effective search, interview and evaluation process based on 
objective criteria.

The nominations committee meets as is necessary and met twice 
during the year under review 

Risk committee
Subsequent to 30 September 2011 it has been agreed to set up a 
risk committee under the chairmanship of Belinda Richards. Risk 
had previously been overseen by the audit committee. 

Internal control
The board is responsible for reviewing and approving the group’s 
system of internal control and its adequacy and effectiveness.

The group has a cyclical process for identifying, assessing and 
managing its significant risks, which has been in place for the full 
year under review. The process is designed to enable the board to 
be confident that such risks are mitigated, or controlled as far as 
possible. It should be noted however, that no system can eliminate 
the risk of failure to achieve business objectives entirely and can 
only provide reasonable and not absolute assurance against 
material misstatement or loss. 

The audit committee is delegated the task of reviewing all 
identified risks, with the ultimate key risks retained for full board 
review. The audit committee reports to the board at every board 
meeting. Risks and controls are reviewed to ensure effective 
management of appropriate strategic, financial, operational and 
compliance issues. The audit committee also reviews the half year 
and full year financial statements and holds discussions with the 
group’s auditors. In addition, the group has an internal audit 

function which performs relevant reviews as part of a programme 
approved by the audit committee. The committee considers any 
issues or risks arising from internal audit in order that appropriate 
actions can be undertaken for their satisfactory resolution. The 
internal audit manager has a direct reporting line to the chairman 
of the audit committee. A detailed annual budget is produced 
each year, together with longer-term projections in accordance 
with the agreed strategy, which are presented to the board for 
consideration and approval. A fundamental part of the control 
process is the diligent monitoring of actual performance against 
this budget by the board. Where applicable, revisions are made to 
expected out-turn against which further progress can be 
monitored. A detailed management information pack is prepared 
monthly which covers each major area of the business and which 
includes detailed consolidated results and financial information for 
the business as a whole. The performance of each business area is 
reviewed monthly by both divisional management and the 
operations board and is subsequently reported to the board.

The board also discusses in detail the projected financial impact of 
major proposed acquisitions and disposals, including their 
financing. All such proposed substantial investments are 
considered by all directors. Where meetings are required between 
board meetings and a full complement of directors cannot be 
achieved, a committee of directors considers the necessary 
formalities. The board is also responsible for the discussion and 
approval of the group’s treasury strategy, including mitigation 
against changes in interest rates. The group’s processes for 
internal control have been in place throughout the year and 
accord with the Turnbull guidelines (2005). The board regularly 
reviews the group’s processes for internal control and conducts a 
formal annual review of these processes and the risks relating to 
the business. No significant failings or weaknesses were identified 
from this review in the year.

Relations with shareholders
The company has held over 100 meetings with shareholders, 
analysts and potential investors in the year in addition to the usual 
half-yearly results announcements and briefings.

Andrew Cunningham and Mark Greenwood, chief executive and 
financial director respectively, have had the vast majority of these 
meetings and manage the group’s investor relations programme 
with the head of corporate affairs. Feedback is always sought 
following such meetings and is presented to the board as a whole 
and the board is briefed on the views of major shareholders. All 
the directors intend to be in attendance at the Annual General 
Meeting and available to answer questions. The group’s website 
includes a specific and comprehensive Investor Relations section, 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

Governance

 Financials

49

containing all RNS announcements, share price information, 
annual documents available for download and similar materials. 
All shareholders have the opportunity to attend the Annual 
General Meeting, which continues as a route for communication 
with smaller and private shareholders.

The notice of meeting and annual report and accounts are sent 
out at least 20 working days before the meeting. Separate votes 
are held for each proposed resolution, including the approval of 
the remuneration committee report, and a proxy count is given in 
each case after the voting on a show of hands. Grainger includes, 
as standard, a ‘vote withheld’ category, in line with best practice. 

Shareholders are also able again to lodge their votes through the 
CREST system.

Share capital
Details of the major interests in the company’s share capital are 
provided in the directors’ report on page 57.

Going concern
After making diligent enquiries, including the review of future 
anticipated cash flows and compliance with banking covenants, 
the directors have a reasonable expectation that the group and 
company have adequate resources to continue in existence for the 
foreseeable future. For this reason they continue to adopt the 
going concern basis in preparing the accounts. 

By order of the board

Michael Windle 
Company Secretary 
5 December 2011

Grainger plc

50

Report of the remuneration committee  
and directors’ remuneration report

This report meets the disclosure requirements of the Companies 
Act 2006 and the Listing Rules and in accordance with usual 
practice will be put to shareholders for approval at the Annual 
General Meeting.

The remuneration committee
The remuneration committee currently comprises four 
independent non-executive directors, Baroness Margaret Ford 
(chairman), Robert Hiscox, Henry Pitman and Belinda Richards. 

Belinda Richards joined the committee on 17 May 2011.

The remuneration committee met formally four times during the 
year. In each case with all members present save that Robert 
Hiscox did not attend the meeting in February 2011. The 
committee have also communicated informally during the year. 

This year Hewitt New Bridge Street (‘HNBS’) continued to be 
involved in the set-up and implementation of the Long Term 
Incentive Scheme (‘LTIS’). HNBS have no other connection with the 
company or its directors as individuals. The committee’s terms of 
reference are available on the group’s website or on request from 
the company secretary.

Remuneration policy
Grainger’s remuneration policy is designed to attract, motivate 
and retain high calibre individuals to enable the group to operate 
strategically for the continued benefit of shareholders, over the 
long term. In order to operate this policy, the remuneration 
committee receives information on remuneration packages 
awarded to directors in comparable organisations and aims to 
ensure that the rewards paid by Grainger are competitive. 

The policy is also designed to align the directors’ interests with 
those of shareholders. This is principally achieved through the use 
of share-based incentives and by encouraging executive directors 
to maintain a reasonable shareholding in the group. As a 
guideline, executive directors (and senior executives) are expected 
to hold the equivalent value of at least one year’s salary in 
Grainger shares. Details of executive directors’ share options and 
share awards are shown on pages 55 and 56 respectively and 
their shareholdings are shown within the table in the Directors’ 
report on page 57. Share awards are generally satisfied by the 
acquisition of shares in the market, so are not dilutive to 
shareholders. Share options are satisfied by the issue of new 
share capital. 

Remuneration packages balance both short and long-term 
rewards, as well as performance related pay and non-performance 
related pay. They include salary, bonus and defined contribution 
pension elements and long-term share incentives; option schemes 
and other usual benefits are also afforded. 

No executive director is involved in the determination of his own 
remuneration. Fees of the non-executive directors, which include 
increments where a committee chairmanship or senior 
independent position is held, are determined by the executive 
committee of the board. 

The remuneration committee also review the total level of salaries 
and bonuses paid to the group as a whole.

Service contracts
Contract dates and unexpired terms for the directors as at 
30 September 2011 are as follows:

Contract  
date

Unexpired  
term*

Notice  
period

Andrew Cunningham 20 October 

2009 

Peter Couch 

1 June 2010 

Nick Jopling 

Mark Greenwood 

Robin Broadhurst 

John Barnsley 

Robert Hiscox 

Henry Pitman 

1 September 
2010 

13 September 
2010

26 February 
2004 

27 February 
2003 

No fixed 
term 

No fixed 
term 

No fixed 
term 

No fixed 
term 

12 months

12 months

6 months

6 months

17 months  3 months

5 months  3 months

6 March 2002  5 months  3 months

1 May 2007 

17 months  3 months

Baroness Margaret Ford  3 July 2008 

29 months  3 months

Belinda Richards

5 April 2011

28 months 3 months

*  Calculated as at 30 September 2011 and rounded to the nearest whole 

month.

Apart from salary and benefits in relation to the notice period 
described above, there are no other terms in any of the contracts 
which would give rise to compensation payable for early 
termination, or any other liability of the company.

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

Governance

 Financials

51

Each non-executive director has specific terms of reference. 
Their contracts state an initial three-year period, with a 
continuation subject to review at that time. The new contracts 
contain no entitlement to compensation for early termination.

Other directorships
The board has an approved policy on other directorships. This 
permits a full-time executive director to hold non-executive 
directorships, and to retain fees from any such appointment, 
provided that the board considers that this will not adversely 
affect their executive responsibilities. None of the executive 
directors held any other directorships outside of the group 
during the year.

NON-PERFORMANCE-RELATED REMUNERATION

Basic salaries and benefits
Basic salaries are reviewed by the remuneration committee 
annually. Uplifts are by reference to cost of living, responsibilities 
and market rates, as for all employees, and are performed at the 
same time of year. It was decided for the years commencing 
1 October 2010 and 2011 respectively that the executive directors 
would receive no increase in their basic salaries, in light of market 
conditions. Executive directors, along with other senior members 
of staff, receive a fully expensed company car, or a car allowance. 
All members of staff, including the executive directors, benefit 
from health and life insurances. The fees for the chairman and 
non-executive directors are reviewed on a biennial basis by the 
executive committee to the board. Increases in these fees effective 
from 1 October 2010 were agreed in November 2010. 

Pensions
The group contributes 15% of basic salary to the money purchase 
pension schemes of all of the executive directors.

No other elements of remuneration are pensionable.

Share schemes open to all employees
The four executive directors are eligible to participate in a save as 
you earn scheme (‘SAYE’), and Andrew Cunningham and Peter 
Couch are eligible to participate in a share incentive plan (‘SIP’). 
Both are Inland Revenue approved and therefore subject to the 
limits prescribed, and both schemes are open to all employees 
with relevant service, subject to the rules of the schemes.

Nick Jopling and Mark Greenwood will be eligible to participate in 
the SIP once they have been employed for the requisite period of 
eighteen months.

Amounts relating to directors’ participation in the SIP and share 
options under the SAYE scheme are shown on pages 54 and 55.

PERFORMANCE-RELATED REMUNERATION
As should be expected and in accordance with the Code, 
a significant element of executive directors’ and senior 
management’s potential remuneration is performance related. 
The combination of short and long-term incentives attempts to 
align the interests of executives and senior management with 
the interests of shareholders, and to reward significant 
outperformance of expectations. 

Non-executive directors do not receive performance-related 
remuneration.

Revised arrangements for incentive schemes
The remuneration committee had during the previous year 
undertaken, with the independent assistance of HNBS, a review 
of the remuneration arrangements for the executive directors.

Following this review the committee made revisions to the 
arrangements which it believes should motivate, retain and 
appropriately reward management within a best practice 
compliant framework that aligns their interests with those of 
shareholders. The key revisions made by the committee are set 
out below.

The remuneration committee carefully considered the new 
arrangements to ensure that they were no less challenging than 
the previous system and were satisfied that this was the case.

Annual cash bonus
Under the new annual bonus scheme that was introduced this 
year 75% of the performance measure was based on the 
following two financial measures – operating profit before 
valuation and return on shareholders’ equity. The remaining 25% 
of the performance measure was based on an assessment of 
personal performance.

The assessment of the personal performance for the chief 
executive is undertaken by the chairman and for the other 
executive directors by the chief executive.

The maximum potential bonus for the chief executive is capped at 
a multiple of 150% of salary with the other executive directors 
maximum bonus being capped at 125% of salary.

Following an assessment of all of the above measures the total 
bonuses payable relative to their salary for the executive directors 
were 75% for the chief executive and 60% for the other directors. 

Grainger plc

52

Report of the remuneration committee  
and directors’ remuneration report continued

Unwinding of previous bonus scheme
Up to the financial year ending 30 September 2010 Andrew 
Cunningham had participated in an arrangement introduced in 
2003 whereby each year a notional provisional bonus amount was 
calculated by reference to the enhancement of the triple net asset 
value of Grainger, relative to a theoretical market comparator.  
The comparator movement was calculated with regard to the 
Nationwide and Halifax house price indices and also interest rates 
– using five-year swap rates. 

The calculated amount was aggregated with the unpaid notional 
amounts from previous years and each year the remuneration 
committee considered the appropriate proportion, if any, of this 
aggregate notional sum to be approved for payment. The notional 
balance after any approved payment remained to be taken into 
account over future years. The maximum amount that could be 
transferred into the pool in any one year was 150% of salary and 
this could only be achieved under exceptional performance 
conditions. 

As at 30 September 2010 the balance in the notional bonus pool 
stood at £545,621. 

Following the review of bonus arrangements the remuneration 
committee agreed to close this bonus scheme and to replace it 
with an annual bonus scheme with the balance of the bonus pool, 
which had already been approved by the remuneration committee 
in previous years, being paid to Andrew Cunningham in five equal 
tranches between 2011 and 2015. The first payment of £109,124 
was made in March 2011, reducing the balance in the pool at  
30 September 2011 to £436,497. 

Long-term Incentives
Grainger’s policy in relation to long-term incentive schemes has 
evolved over time to more closely align the long-term interests of 
executives and senior management with those of shareholders,  
to reward sustained performance over a number of financial years 
and to encourage these employees to grow their shareholdings.

The current LTIS was approved by shareholders in February 2007 
and makes conditional awards of shares to reward performance 
and retain key staff over rolling three-year periods. 

The awards are based upon the absolute levels of increase in  
both NNNAV and TSR. Up until 2010 two-thirds of the award was 
based on the absolute level of increase in NNNAV and one-third 
on the increase in absolute TSR, however, following the review  
of remuneration arrangements referred to above, the awards  
are with effect from 1 October 2010 now split equally between 
NNNAV and TSR, with the TSR target range having been adjusted 
from 8% – 16% to 5% – 15%, as follows:

Average annual growth in NNNAV 

Percentage of the NNNAV proportion of an 
award which will vest

Less than or equal to average 
WACC
Equal to average WACC + 3% 100%

0%

Between average WACC and 
average WACC + 3%

Pro rata on a straight-line basis 
between 0% and 100%

TSR of the company over the TSR period

Percentage of the TSR proportion of an award 
which will vest

TSR being less than or equal 
to 5% (previously 8%) 
compounded per annum, 
equivalent to 15.76% 
(previously 25.97%) growth in 
total over the TSR performance 
period.
TSR being equal to or greater 
than 15% (previously 16%) 
compounded per annum, 
equivalent to 52.08% 
(previously 56.09%) growth in 
total over the TSR performance 
period.

Between 5% compounded per 
annum and 15% compounded 
per annum

0%

100%

Between 0% and 100% pro 
rata on a straight-line basis

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

Governance

 Financials

53

There is also a matching awards element to the scheme, to 
encourage executives to develop and maintain a shareholding  
in the company. Participants are able to pledge or buy shares of 
equivalent value to 30% of their relevant salary and to the extent 
that performance criteria are met, these shares will be matched 
one-for-one at the end of the three-year period.

Fundamentally it was considered that absolute measures of 
performance were suitable because Grainger is unusual in nature 
and has no natural comparator group. Grainger is the only listed 
company of its size to invest primarily in residential property 
assets. All other comparably sized property companies are 
principally commercial and/or development focused.

These performance criteria are believed to be stretching, but 
realistic, and to reward executives if Grainger’s return to 
shareholders is significant in absolute terms.

The initial conditional awards under the reviewed basis were made 
on 26 November 2010 with the awards made in the previous 
financial year having been made on the original basis. 

Total shareholder return
As required by legislation covering the directors’ remuneration 
report, the graph below shows TSR (based upon share price 
growth with dividends reinvested) for Grainger, compared to the 
FTSE 250 and the FTSE Real Estate Index. These comparators have 
been chosen on the basis that they are the markets within which 
Total shareholder return
Grainger operates, albeit that the real estate index comprises 
mainly commercial property companies.

150

120

90

60

30

30 Sept
2006

30 Sept
2007

30 Sept
2008

30 Sept
2009

30 Sept
2010

30 Sept
2011

This graph shows the value by 30 September 2011 of £100 invested in 
Grainger on 30 September 2006 compared with the value of £100 invested 
in the FTSE 250 Index and in the FTSE 350 Real Estate/Real Estate Investment 
& Services indices.

Grainger
FTSE 250 Index
FTSE 350 Real Estate/Real Estate Investment & Services indices

Grainger plc

54

Report of the remuneration committee  
and directors’ remuneration report continued

The auditors have audited the following parts of the remuneration report. 

Directors’ remuneration

Robin 
Broadhurst 
£’000

Andrew 
Cunningham 
£’000

Peter  
Couch 
£’000

Nick  
Jopling 
£’000

Mark 
Greenwood 
£’000

Rupert 
Dickinson 
£’000

Chairman and executive directors

Non-performance-related remuneration

Salary and fees

Taxable benefits

Share incentive plan

Total non-performance-related remuneration

Performance-related remuneration

Annual discretionary bonus

Unwinding of previous bonus scheme

Total performance-related remuneration

Total remuneration for the year ended 
30 September 2011

Total remuneration for the year ended 
30 September 2010

Pension contributions into money 
purchase schemes

Year ended 30 September 2011

Year ended 30 September 2010

140

–

–

140

–

–

–

140

120

–

–

420

20

6

446

315

109

424

870

711

58

66

265

34

6

305

159

–

159

464

234

41

14

325

16

–

341

195

–

195

536

28

49

4

260

16

–

276

156

–

156

432

15

34

3

Total 
£’000

1,410

86

12

1,508

825

109

934

2,442

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

26

1,134

–

–

182

87

Non-executive directors

Non-performance-related 
remuneration

Salary and fees

Taxable benefits

Share incentive plan

Total non-performance-related 
remuneration

Performance-related remuneration

Annual discretionary bonus

Unwinding of previous bonus scheme

Total performance-related 
remuneration

Total remuneration for the year 
ended 30 September 2011
Total remuneration for the year ended 
30 September 2010

John  
Barnsley  
£’000

Baroness 
Margaret 
Ford  
£’000

Robert  
Hiscox  
£’000

Henry  
Pitman  
£’000

Bill Tudor 
John  
£’000

Belinda 
Richards  
£’000

Total  
£’000

Total all 
directors 
2011  
£’000

51

–

–

51

–

–

–

51

50

47

–

–

47

–

–

–

47

39

40

–

–

40

–

–

–

40

35

40

–

–

40

–

–

–

40

35

17

–

–

17

–

–

–

17

46

20

–

–

20

–

–

–

20

–

215

1,625

–

–

86

12

215

1,723

–

–

–

825

109

934

215

2,657

205

1,339

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

Governance

 Financials

55

Peter Couch was appointed to the board on 1 June 2010.

Nick Jopling was appointed to the board on 1 September 2010.

Mark Greenwood was appointed to the board on 13 September 2010.

Belinda Richards was appointed to the board on 5 April 2011.

Bill Tudor John retired from the board on 9 February 2011.

Rupert Dickinson retired from the board on 20 October 2009. Pursuant to the terms of a compromise agreement between Rupert 
Dickinson and the company relating to his resignation as a director and as chief executive with effect from 20 October 2009 the 
company made an aggregate payment to Rupert Dickinson of £2,982,521 (less PAYE deductions).

Directors’ share options

Ordinary shares (thousands)

Andrew Cunningham

Peter Couch

Nick Jopling

Mark Greenwood

Total

Exercise 
price

30 Sept  
2011

30 Sept 
2010

30 Sept 
2011

30 Sept 
2010

30 Sept 
2011

30 Sept 
2010

30 Sept  
2011

30 Sept 
2010

30 Sept 
2011

30 Sept 
2010

Dates exercisable

Non-performance-related  
(available to all staff)

SAYE Scheme

1 February 2012 to 31 July 2012

1 February 2014 to 31 July 2014

Performance-related  
(conditional awards)

HMRC Approved Executive Share 
Option Scheme

37.7p

37.7p

–

44

–

44

25

–

25

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

32

32

–

–

–

–

25

44

25

44

128

197

–

69

26 November 2013 to 26 November 2020

94.4p

32

76

–

44

32

57

–

25

32

32

The market price of the company’s shares at the end of the financial year was 86.6p, and the range of the closing mid-market prices 
during the year was 86p to 133p.

Grainger plc

56

Report of the remuneration committee  
and directors’ remuneration report continued

Directors share awards

Ordinary shares of 5p each 
(thousands)

Non-performance-related 
– miscellaneous 
Non-performance-related 
– deferred bonus plan 
Performance-related 
(conditional awards)
Long term incentive 
scheme
2007 Scheme (lapsed) 

2008 Scheme 

2009 Scheme 

2009 Scheme 

2010 Scheme 

Matching awards 
(conditional)
2007 Scheme (lapsed) 

2008 Scheme 

2009 Scheme 

2009 Scheme 

2010 Scheme 

i

ii

iii

iii

Award 
date
12 Dec 
2007
3 Feb 
2010

Earliest 
vesting 
date
12 Dec 
2010
3 Feb 
2011

9 Jan 
2008
23 Dec 
2008
9 Dec 
2009
29 Sept 
2010
26 Nov 
2010

9 Jan 
2011
23 Dec 
2011
9 Dec 
2012
9 Dec 
2012
26 Nov 
2013

9 Jan 
2008
23 Dec 
2008
9 Dec 
2009
29 Sept 
2010
26 Nov 
2010

9 Jan 
2011
23 Dec 
2011
9 Dec 
2012
9 Dec 
2012
26 Nov 
2013

Andrew 
Cunningham

Peter  
Couch

Nick  
Jopling

Mark  
Greenwood

Total

30 Sept 
2011

30 Sept 
2010

30 Sept 
2011

30 Sept 
2010

30 Sept 
2011

30 Sept 
2010

30 Sept 
2011

30 Sept 
2010

30 Sept 
2011

30 Sept 
2010

–

–

–

–

–

90

26

90

–

284

–

153

779

779

429

429

481

481

–

667

–

–

–

56

156

156

96

96

–

–

–

–

281

–

86

–

–

–

–

–

31

86

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

90

–

–

–

26

90

–

–

437

1,208 1,208

481

481

283

283

230

230

513

513

344

–

275

–

1,567

–

–

87

–

–

242

242

96

33

96

33

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

23

23

10

10

133

–
2,312 1,852

84
970

–
815

39
689

–
306

10
525

–
240

266

–
4,496 3,213

i  This award vested on 12 December 2010. The share price at the vesting date was 106.7p.

ii  These shares were awarded to Peter Couch before his appointment as a director of the Company. 

iii Performance conditions for the conditional share awards set to vest on 9 January 2011 were not met and therefore lapsed on that date.

On behalf of the board

Baroness Margaret Ford  
Chairman of the remuneration committee  
5 December 2011

 
Directors’ report

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

Governance

 Financials

57

The directors present their report and the audited financial 
statements for the year ended 30 September 2011.

Principal activities
Grainger plc is a holding company and during the year the group 
(through subsidiaries of Grainger plc) has continued its activities of 
property trading, investment, development and management. 

Review of business development and prospects
The information that fulfils the requirements of the Business 
review can be found on pages 2 to 41, which are incorporated 
into this Directors’ report by reference. A review of the 
performance and development of the business during the year, 
the position of the group at the year end and its future prospects, 
is set out in the sections of the Annual report from pages 2 to 29. 
Details of the group’s KPIs are provided on page 6. A description 
of the principal risks and uncertainties facing the group and how 
these are mitigated can be found on pages 39 to 41. Additional 
information on environmental matters, on employees and social 
and community matters is set out on pages 30 to 38.

Results for the year
The results of the group are set out in the consolidated income 
statement on page 62 which shows a profit for the financial year 
attributable to the owners of the company of £39.1m (2010: a 
loss of £10.8m).

Dividends
Although no interim dividend was declared (2010: 0.5p), in 
June 2011 the directors distributed £2.2m by means of a tender 
buy-back of shares. This represented an effective dividend 
of 0.53p per share. The directors recommend the payment 
of a final dividend of 1.30p per share (2010: 1.20p), to be paid 
on 10 February 2012 making a total effective dividend for the 
year of 1.83p (2010: 1.70p) per share. Any shareholder wishing 
to participate in the Dividend Reinvestment Plan for the 2011 
final dividend will need to ensure that their application form 
is returned to our registrars by 16 January 2012.

Directors
The directors of the company who served during the year are 
listed on page 42 and 43 except for Tony Wray who was 
appointed to the board on 24 October 2011, and Bill Tudor John 
who retired from the board on 9 February 2011. 

Directors’ and other interests
The interests of the directors in the shares of the company at 
30 September 2011 and 30 November 2011, with comparative 
figures as at 1 October 2010 are as follows:

Ordinary shares of 5p each (thousands)

Robin Broadhurst

Andrew Cunningham

John Barnsley

Robert Hiscox

Henry Pitman

Baroness Margaret Ford

Peter Couch 

Nick Jopling 

Mark Greenwood 

Beneficial

30 Sept 
2011

110

1,115

1 Oct 
2010

90

1,092

76

150

102

14

88

23

10

103

200

101

18

121

82

30

30 Nov 
2011

110

1,115

103

200

101

18

122

82

30

1,645

1,880

1,881

Details of directors’ share options are given on page 55.

Save as disclosed above, as at 30 November 2011, the company is 
aware of the following interests amounting to 3% or more in the 
company’s shares:

Schroder Investment Management 
Limited

Standard Life Investments Limited

BlackRock Inc

Norges Bank Investment 
Management

BNP Paribas Investment Partners SA

Morgan Stanley Investment 
Management

Holding 
million

Holding 
%

69.6

33.7

18.7

16.8

13.7

13.0

16.77

8.13

4.50

4.04

3.30

3.13

Grainger plc

58

Directors’ report continued

Directors’ interests in significant contracts
No directors were materially interested in any contract of 
significance.

Statement of directors’ responsibilities
The directors are responsible for preparing the annual report,  
the directors’ remuneration 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; and

• 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 the group and enable 
them to ensure that the financial statements and the directors’ 
remuneration report comply with the Companies Act 2006 and, 
as regards the group financial statements, Article 4 of the IAS 
Regulation. 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.

Each of the directors, whose names and functions are listed on 
pages 42 and 43 confirm that, to the best of their knowledge:

• the group financial statements, which have been prepared in 
accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the EU, give a true and  
fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit of 
the group; 

• the business review on pages 2 to 41 includes a fair review 
of the development and performance of the business and 
the position of the group, together with a description of the 
principal risks and uncertainties that it faces;

• so far as the directors are aware, there is no relevant audit 

information of which the company’s auditors are unaware; and

• the directors have taken all the steps that they ought to have 
taken as a director in order to make themselves aware of any 
relevant audit information and to establish that the company’s 
auditors are aware of that information. 

The maintenance and integrity of the Grainger plc website is the 
responsibility of the directors; the work carried out by the auditors 
does not involve consideration of these matters and, accordingly, 
the auditors accept no responsibility for any changes that may 
have occurred to the financial statements since they were initially 
presented on the website.

Corporate governance
A report on matters of corporate governance is set out on pages 
44 to 49 of this annual report.

Insurance of directors
The company has put in place insurance to cover its directors and 
officers against the costs of defending themselves in civil legal 
proceedings taken against them in that capacity and in respect 
of damages awarded in such proceedings. Following shareholder 
approval, the group maintains insurance for Grainger plc’s 
directors in respect of their duties as director, which is a qualifying 
third party indemnity provision for the purposes of the Companies 
Act 2006. This cover was in place during the financial year and at 
the date of approval of these financial statements.

Creditor payment policy
It is the group’s policy to pay suppliers in accordance with their 
normal terms and conditions of trading. Payment in respect of the 
purchase of property is subject to and will comply with contractual 
terms. Trade creditors existing at 30 September 2011 relating to 
purchases of property stock generally complete 28 days after 
exchange of contracts. The company has no trade creditors. 
Trade creditor days of the group were calculated as 22 days 
(2010: 21 days). 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

Governance

 Financials

59

Financial Risk Management
Details are included in note 25 to the financial statements.

Sustainability
Our approach to sustainability is based on our assessment of the 
potential risk and opportunity to our business. In the year ended 
30 September 2011 we either fully or partially achieved 88% of 
the applicable sustainability targets that we committed to meeting 
by that date. Further information is provided in the corporate 
responsibility report on pages 30 to 38.

Charitable donations
During the year the group made charitable donations amounting 
to £17,500 (2010: £12,320). Grainger makes charitable donations 
in three ways. Firstly, we are a Foundation Partner member of 
LandAid, the property industry charity, and have committed to 
donating £10,000 per annum to LandAid for a period of three 
years of which this is the second year of contribution. Secondly, 
we match fund our staff’s individual fundraising efforts up to a 
maximum of £100 per person per annum and we make occasional 
donations to specific events or good causes. We have not made 
any contributions for political purposes.

Overseas operations
Our German portfolio continues to be centrally managed and 
controlled by our Luxembourg managers.

Health and safety
Grainger has a well-developed Health and Safety Management 
System for the internal and external control of health and safety 
risks which is managed by the Director of Health and Safety. 
This includes the use of online risk management systems for the 
identification, mitigation and reporting of real time health and 
safety management information. The group health and safety 
committee consists of members from across the organisation and 
is chaired by the chief operating officer. The committee continues 
to monitor the delivery of legal compliance in health and safety 
through audit and implementation of improvements to enable  
us to become ‘best in class’.

Employment of disabled persons
The company gives full and fair consideration to applications  
for employment made by disabled persons, having regard to  
their particular aptitudes and abilities. In the event of an employee 
becoming disabled every effort is made to ensure that their 
employment within the company continues and that appropriate 
training is arranged where necessary. It is the policy of the 
company that the training, career development and promotion  
of disabled persons should, as far as possible, be identical to that 
of other employees.

Employee involvement
The group places considerable value on the involvement of its 
employees and has continued its practice of keeping them 
informed on matters affecting them as employees, for example, 
eligibility to join company share schemes, and on the various 
factors affecting the performance of the group. Communication  
is made using the intranet, ‘The Source’, and through regular 
meetings with, and presentations by senior management. 

Independent auditors and disclosure of information 
to auditors
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 steps that they ought to have taken  
as directors in order to make themselves aware of any relevant 
audit information and to establish that the company’s auditors  
are aware of that information. 

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP have expressed their willingness  
to continue in office as auditors to the company and group.  
A resolution to reappoint them as auditors to the company will  
be proposed at the next Annual General Meeting. 

Grainger plc

60

Directors’ report continued

Shares
A tender offer of 1 for every 238 shares was undertaken in June 
2011. Following the general meeting to approve the tender offer  
a total of 1,484,890 ordinary shares were tendered at a price of 
149p per share and purchased by the company for approximately 
£2.2m. These shares are now held in treasury. In September 2011 
9,683 shares were issued pursuant to the exercise of share options 
under the group’s SAYE scheme. The company has one class of 
ordinary shares and all shares rank equally and are fully paid. No 
person holds shares carrying special rights with regard to control 
of the company. There are neither restrictions on the transfer of 
shares nor the size of a holding which are both governed by the 
Articles of Association and prevailing legislation. The directors are 
not aware of any agreements between holders of shares in the 
Company that may result in restrictions on the transfer of shares 
or on voting rights.

At 30 September 2011, the directors had unexpired power to 
repurchase up to 41,600,000 shares.

Takeover directive
On a change of control, the core banking facilities (described in 
note 26 to the accounts) would become repayable should prior 
consent not be obtained, or should the debt not be renegotiated 
within 45 days. There are no other material matters relating to a 
change of control of the company following a takeover bid.

Post balance sheet events
On 5 October 2011, the group signed an agreement for £50.3m 
of debt funding from Partnership Assurance provided through  
an innovative structure against certain of the group’s Retirement 
Solutions assets, non-recourse to the rest of the group. 
On 21 November 2011 the Group signed a further agreement 
with Partnership Assurance for an additional £28.6m of debt 
funding under similar terms to the initial £50.3m. These facilities 
are repayable on a property-by-property basis as the assets are 
sold on vacancy, with interest rolling up. In this way the facility 
exactly matches the cash flow characteristics of this part of the 
business, with an expected average maturity of 11 years. These 
funds are being used to reduce the group’s core debt facilities. 

By order of the board

Michael Windle 
Company Secretary 
5 December 2011

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

61

Independent auditors’ report to the members  
of Grainger plc on the group financial statements 

We have audited the group financial statements of Grainger plc 
for the year ended 30 September 2011 which comprise the 
consolidated income statement, the consolidated statement 
of comprehensive income, the consolidated statement of financial 
position, the consolidated statement of changes in equity, 
the consolidated statement of cash flows and the related notes. 
The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their 
preparation is applicable law and International Financial Reporting 
Standards (IFRSs) as adopted by the European Union.  

Respective responsibilities of directors and auditors  
As explained more fully in the directors’ responsibilities statement 
set out on page 58, the directors are responsible for the 
preparation of the group 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 group financial 
statements in accordance with applicable law and International 
Standards on Auditing (UK and 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. 

Scope of the audit of the financial statements  
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 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. In addition, we read all the financial and 
non-financial information in the annual report to identify material 
inconsistencies with the audited financial statements. If we become 
aware of any apparent material misstatements or inconsistencies 
we consider the implications for our report. 

Opinion on financial statements  
In our opinion the group financial statements:  

  Have been prepared in accordance with the requirements 

of the Companies Act 2006 and Article 4 of the lAS Regulation.  

Opinion on other matters prescribed by the Companies 
Act 2006  
In our opinion: 

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

  The information given in the Corporate Governance Statement 
set out on pages 44 to 49 with respect to internal control and 
risk management systems and about share capital structures is 
consistent with the financial statements.  

Matters on which we are required to report by exception  
We have nothing to report in respect of the following:  

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; or  

  We have not received all the information and explanations 

we require for our audit; or 

  A corporate governance statement has not been prepared 

by the parent company. 

Under the Listing Rules we are required to review:  

  The directors’ statement, set out on page 49, in relation to 

going concern;  

  The part of the Corporate Governance Statement relating to 
the company’s compliance with the nine provisions of the UK 
Corporate Governance Code specified for our review; and 

  Certain elements of the report to shareholders by the board on 

directors’ remuneration. 

Other matter  
We have reported separately on the parent company financial 
statements of Grainger plc for the year ended 30 September 2011 
and on the information in the directors’ remuneration report that is 
described as having been audited.  

  Give a true and fair view of the state of the group’s affairs as at 
30 September 2011 and of its profit and cash flows for the year 
then ended;  

  Have been properly prepared in accordance with IFRSs as 

adopted by the European Union; and  

Bowker Andrews (Senior Statutory Auditor)  
for and on behalf of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP 
Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditors  
Newcastle upon Tyne 

5 December 2011 

 
 
 
Grainger plc

62

Consolidated income statement  

For the year ended 30 September 2011 

Group revenue 

Net rental income 

Profit on disposal of trading property 

Administrative expenses 

Other income and expenses 

Net gain on acquisition of subsidiary 

Goodwill impairment 

Profit on disposal of investment property 

Profit on redemption of equity units in associate 

Finance income from financial interest in property assets 

(Write down)/write back of inventories to net realisable value 

Provision for impairment of loans receivable net of write backs 

Operating profit before net valuation deficits on investment property 

Net valuation deficits on investment property 

Operating profit after net valuation deficits on investment property 

Fair value movements on derivatives 

Finance costs 

Finance income 

Share of profit of associates after tax 

Share of profit of joint ventures after tax 

Profit/(loss) before tax 

 Tax credit before exceptional item  

 Exceptional tax credit  

 Tax credit for the year 

Profit/(loss) for the year attributable to the owners of the company 

.

Notes

4, 5

6

7

9

10

41

22

8

19

21

23

20, 24

17

25

13

13

19

20

12

14

14

14

34

2011 
£m 

296.2 

49.1 

72.3 

(13.0) 

4.2 

16.1 

(2.2) 

1.1 

– 

7.9 

(1.8) 

(4.2) 

129.5 

(2.0) 

127.5 

(28.0) 

(82.6) 

2.7 

4.4 

2.1 

26.1 

2.8 

10.2 

13.0 

39.1 

2010
£m

244.5

40.8

52.8

(11.2)

5.9

2.8

(1.5)

0.4

1.0

2.5

2.9

(10.7)

85.7

(0.8)

84.9

(39.6)

(81.3)

5.0

5.6

4.6

(20.8)

10.0

–

10.0

(10.8)

 
 
 
Consolidated statement of  
comprehensive income 

For the year ended 30 September 2011 

Profit/(loss) for the year 

Actuarial gain/(loss) on BPT Limited defined benefit pension scheme  

Fair value movement on financial interest in property assets  

Exchange adjustments offset in reserves  

Changes in fair value of cash flow hedges  

Other comprehensive income and expense for the year before tax 

Tax relating to components of other comprehensive income 

Other comprehensive income and expense for the year 

Total comprehensive income and expense for the year attributable to the owners 
of the company 

Basic earnings/(loss) per share  

Diluted earnings/(loss) per share  

Dividend per share 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

63

Notes 

28 

21 

14 

16 

16 

15 

2011 
£m 

39.1 

1.2 

(0.3) 

(0.9) 

13.2 

13.2 

(4.5) 

8.7 

47.8 

9.5p 

9.4p 

1.83p 

2010
£m

(10.8)

(0.5)

3.1

0.9

(1.4)

2.1

(0.7)

1.4

(9.4)

(2.9)p

(2.9)p

1.70p

Included within comprehensive income is £8.8m (2010: £11.1m) relating to associates and joint ventures accounted for under the 
equity method. 

All of the above results relate to continuing operations. 

Consolidated income statement  

For the year ended 30 September 2011 

Group revenue 

Net rental income 

Profit on disposal of trading property 

Administrative expenses 

Other income and expenses 

Net gain on acquisition of subsidiary 

Goodwill impairment 

Profit on disposal of investment property 

Profit on redemption of equity units in associate 

Finance income from financial interest in property assets 

(Write down)/write back of inventories to net realisable value 

Provision for impairment of loans receivable net of write backs 

Operating profit before net valuation deficits on investment property 

Net valuation deficits on investment property 

Operating profit after net valuation deficits on investment property 

Fair value movements on derivatives 

Finance costs 

Finance income 

Share of profit of associates after tax 

Share of profit of joint ventures after tax 

Profit/(loss) before tax 

 Tax credit before exceptional item  

 Exceptional tax credit  

 Tax credit for the year 

.

Profit/(loss) for the year attributable to the owners of the company 

Notes

4, 5

20, 24

6

7

9

10

41

22

8

19

21

23

17

25

13

13

19

20

12

14

14

14

34

2011 

£m 

296.2 

49.1 

72.3 

(13.0) 

4.2 

16.1 

(2.2) 

1.1 

– 

7.9 

(1.8) 

(4.2) 

129.5 

(2.0) 

127.5 

(28.0) 

(82.6) 

2.7 

4.4 

2.1 

26.1 

2.8 

10.2 

13.0 

39.1 

2010

£m

244.5

40.8

52.8

(11.2)

5.9

2.8

(1.5)

0.4

1.0

2.5

2.9

(10.7)

85.7

(0.8)

84.9

(39.6)

(81.3)

5.0

5.6

4.6

(20.8)

10.0

–

10.0

(10.8)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

64

Consolidated statement of financial position 

As at 30 September 2011 

ASSETS 

Non-current assets 

Investment property 

Property, plant and equipment 

Investment in associates 

Investment in joint ventures 

Financial interest in property assets 

Deferred tax assets 

Goodwill 

Current assets 

Investment in associates 

Inventories – trading property 

Trade and other receivables 

Derivative financial instruments 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Assets held for sale 

Total assets 

LIABILITIES 

Non-current liabilities 

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 

Trade and other payables 

Retirement benefits 

Provisions for other liabilities and charges 

Deferred tax liabilities 

Current liabilities 

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 

Trade and other payables 

Current tax liabilities 

Derivative financial instruments  

Liabilities held for sale 

Total liabilities 

Net assets 

Notes

17

18

19

20

21

14, 29

22

19

23

24

25

26

26

27

28

27

14, 29

26

30

14

25

2011 
£m 

2010
£m

819.9 

1.2 

34.6 

23.9 

102.3 

42.7 

5.3 

1,029.9 

– 

1,105.1 

18.3 

0.2 

90.9 

– 

634.7

1.3

28.6

91.0

103.9

38.4

6.2

904.1

0.1

989.9

17.2

–

91.5

70.7

1,214.5 

2,244.4 

1,169.4

2,073.5

1,428.0 

1,361.7

4.0 

4.5 

0.6 

47.7 

1,484.8 

116.7 

76.4 

24.6 

154.5 

– 

372.2 

1,857.0 

387.4 

4.0

6.0

0.8

52.6

1,425.1

55.6

57.3

27.8

128.3

34.1

303.1

1,728.2

345.3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated statement of financial position 

As at 30 September 2011 

ASSETS 

Non-current assets 

Investment property 

Property, plant and equipment 

Investment in associates 

Investment in joint ventures 

Financial interest in property assets 

Deferred tax assets 

Goodwill 

Current assets 

Investment in associates 

Inventories – trading property 

Trade and other receivables 

Derivative financial instruments 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Assets held for sale 

Total assets 

LIABILITIES 

Non-current liabilities 

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 

Trade and other payables 

Retirement benefits 

Provisions for other liabilities and charges 

Deferred tax liabilities 

Current liabilities 

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 

Trade and other payables 

Current tax liabilities 

Derivative financial instruments  

Liabilities held for sale 

Total liabilities 

Net assets 

Notes

2011 

£m 

2010

£m

As at 30 September 2011 

EQUITY 

Capital and reserves attributable to the owners of the company 

Issued share capital 

Share premium 

Merger reserve 

Capital redemption reserve  

Cash flow hedge reserve 

Equity component of convertible bond 

Available-for-sale reserve 

Retained earnings 

Equity attributable to the owners of the company 

Non-controlling interests 

Total equity  

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

65

Notes 

31 

34 

2011 
£m 

2010
£m

20.8 

109.8 

20.1 

0.3 

(34.4) 

5.0 

4.1 

261.6 

387.3 

0.1 

387.4 

20.8

109.8

20.1

0.3

(43.0)

5.0

4.2

228.0

345.2

0.1

345.3

The financial statements on pages 62 to 144 were approved by the board of directors on 5 December 2011 and were signed on their 
behalf by: 

1,214.5 

2,244.4 

1,169.4

2,073.5

Andrew R Cunningham 
Director 

Mark Greenwood  
Director 

1,428.0 

1,361.7

Company registration number: 125575 

14, 29

17

18

19

20

21

22

19

23

24

25

26

26

27

28

27

26

30

14

25

14, 29

819.9 

1.2 

34.6 

23.9 

102.3 

42.7 

5.3 

1,029.9 

– 

1,105.1 

18.3 

0.2 

90.9 

– 

4.0 

4.5 

0.6 

47.7 

1,484.8 

116.7 

76.4 

24.6 

154.5 

– 

372.2 

1,857.0 

387.4 

634.7

1.3

28.6

91.0

103.9

38.4

6.2

904.1

0.1

989.9

17.2

–

91.5

70.7

4.0

6.0

0.8

52.6

1,425.1

55.6

57.3

27.8

128.3

34.1

303.1

1,728.2

345.3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

66

Consolidated statement of changes in equity  

Issued 
share 
capital  
£m 

Share 
premium  
£m 

Merger 
reserve 
£m

Capital 
redemption 
reserve
 £m

Cash flow 
hedge 
reserve 
£m

Notes

Equity 
component 
of 
convertible 
bond 
£m

Available- 
for-sale 
reserve  
£m 

Retained 
earnings  
£m 

Non-
controlling 
interests 
£m 

Total 
equity 
£m

6.9 

109.7 

20.1

0.3

(41.6)

5.0

1.9 

26.1 

0.1  128.5

34

28

21

29

–

31

31, 34

31, 40

40

32

15

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

13.9 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

0.1 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

235.9

– 

(235.9)

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(1.4)

–

(1.4)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

– 

(10.8) 

– 

(10.8)

– 

(0.5) 

– 

(0.5)

3.1 

– 

– 

– 

0.9 

– 

– 

– 

– 

3.1

0.9

(1.4)

(0.8) 

0.1 

– 

(0.7)

2.3 

(10.3) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(4.5) 

(13.1) 

– 

235.9 

– 

– 

1.3 

(7.4) 

– 

– 

– 

(9.4)

0.1

(4.5)

–  236.7

– 

– 

– 

–

1.3

(7.4)

20.8 

109.8 

20.1

0.3

(43.0)

5.0

4.2 

228.0 

0.1  345.3

Balance as at 
1 October 2009 

Loss for the year 

Actuarial loss on BPT 
Limited defined benefit 
pension scheme  

Fair value movement 
on financial interest in 
property assets  

Exchange adjustments 
offset in reserves  

Changes in fair value 
of cash flow hedges  

Tax relating to 
components of other 
comprehensive income 

Total comprehensive 
income and expense for 
the year 

Issue of shares 

Purchase of own shares 

Rights issue  

Transfer to retained 
earnings  

Share-based 
payments charge 

Dividends paid  

Balance as at 
30 September 2010  

 
 
 
 
Consolidated statement of changes in equity  

Issued 

share 

Share 

Merger 

redemption 

hedge 

convertible 

Notes

capital  

premium  

reserve 

£m 

£m 

£m

reserve

 £m

reserve 

£m

bond 

£m

for-sale 

Retained 

controlling 

reserve  

earnings  

interests 

£m 

£m 

£m 

Total 

equity 

£m

Capital 

Cash flow 

of 

Available- 

Non-

Equity 

component 

6.9 

109.7 

20.1

0.3

(41.6)

5.0

1.9 

26.1 

0.1  128.5

34

28

21

29

–

31

40

32

15

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

0.1 

31, 34

31, 40

13.9 

235.9

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(1.4)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

– 

(10.8) 

– 

(10.8)

– 

(0.5) 

– 

(0.5)

(0.8) 

0.1 

– 

(0.7)

3.1 

– 

0.9 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(4.5) 

(13.1) 

1.3 

(7.4) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

3.1

0.9

(1.4)

(9.4)

0.1

(4.5)

–

1.3

(7.4)

–  236.7

(1.4)

2.3 

(10.3) 

– 

(235.9)

– 

235.9 

Balance as at 

1 October 2009 

Loss for the year 

Actuarial loss on BPT 

Limited defined benefit 

pension scheme  

Fair value movement 

on financial interest in 

property assets  

Exchange adjustments 

offset in reserves  

Changes in fair value 

of cash flow hedges  

Tax relating to 

components of other 

comprehensive income 

Total comprehensive 

income and expense for 

the year 

Issue of shares 

Purchase of own shares 

Rights issue  

Transfer to retained 

earnings  

Share-based 

payments charge 

Dividends paid  

Balance as at 

30 September 2010  

20.8 

109.8 

20.1

0.3

(43.0)

5.0

4.2 

228.0 

0.1  345.3

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

67

Issued 
share 
capital  
£m 

Share 
premium  
£m 

Merger 
reserve 
£m

Capital 
redemption 
reserve
 £m

Cash flow 
hedge 
reserve 
£m

Notes

Equity 
component 
of 
convertible 
bond 
£m

Available- 
for-sale 
reserve  
£m 

Retained 
earnings  
£m 

Non-
controlling 
interests 
£m 

Total 
equity 
£m

20.8 

109.8 

20.1

0.3

(43.0)

5.0

4.2 

228.0 

0.1  345.3

Balance as at  
1 October 2010  

Profit for the year 

Actuarial gain on BPT 
Limited defined benefit 
pension scheme  

Fair value movement on 
financial interest in 
property assets  

Exchange adjustments 
offset in reserves  

Changes in fair value 
of cash flow hedges  

Tax relating to 
components of other 
comprehensive income 

Total comprehensive 
income and expense for 
the year 

Purchase of own shares 

31, 34

Share-based 
payments charge 

Dividends paid  

Balance as at 
30 September 2011 

32

15

34

28

21

29

–

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

13.2

(4.6)

8.6

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

– 

39.1 

– 

39.1

– 

1.2 

– 

1.2

(0.3) 

– 

(0.9) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(0.3)

(0.9)

– 

– 

13.2

0.2 

(0.1) 

– 

(4.5)

(0.1) 

39.3 

– 

– 

– 

(2.8) 

2.0 

(4.9) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

47.8

(2.8)

2.0

(4.9)

20.8 

109.8 

20.1

0.3

(34.4)

5.0

4.1 

261.6 

0.1  387.4

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

68

Consolidated statement of cash flows  

For the year ended 30 September 2011 

Cash flow from operating activities 

Profit/(loss) for the year 

Depreciation 

Net gain on acquisition of subsidiary 

Goodwill impairment  

Net valuation deficits on investment property 

Net finance costs 

Share of profit of associates and joint ventures 

Profit on disposal of investment property 

Provision for impairment of loans receivable net of write-backs 

Profit on redemption of equity units in associate 

Share-based payment charge  

Change in fair value of derivatives 

Interest income from financial interest in property assets 

Taxation 

Operating profit before changes in working capital 

Increase in trade and other receivables 

Decrease in trade and other payables 

Decrease in provisions for liabilities and charges 

Decrease in trading property 

Cash generated from operations 

Interest paid 

Taxation (paid)/refund 

Net cash inflow from operating activities  

Cash flow from investing activities  

Proceeds from sale of investment property  

Proceeds from financial interest in property assets 

Proceeds from redemption of equity units in associate 

Interest received 

Proceeds from disposal of interest in subsidiary 

Acquisition of subsidiaries, net of cash acquired 

Investment in associates and joint ventures 

Acquisition of investment property and property, plant and equipment 

Net cash inflow/(outflow) from investing activities 

Notes

18

41

22

17

13

19, 20

8

20, 24

19

32

25

21

14

14

8

21

19

42

41

19, 20

17, 18

2011 
£m 

39.1 

0.6 

(16.1) 

2.2 

2.0 

79.9 

(6.5) 

(1.1) 

4.2 

– 

2.0 

28.0 

(7.9) 

(13.0) 

113.4 

(0.8) 

(4.8) 

(0.2) 

71.7 

179.3 

(73.1) 

(4.4) 

101.8 

24.6 

9.2 

0.1 

1.9 

17.5 

(23.1) 

(2.4) 

(5.9) 

21.9 

2010
£m

(10.8)

0.7

(2.8)

1.5

0.8

76.3

(10.2)

(0.4)

10.7

(1.0)

1.3

39.6

(2.5)

(10.0)

93.2

(2.5)

(23.9)

–

42.5

109.3

(80.2)

3.6

32.7

9.9

10.8

9.8

1.7

–

(47.0)

(7.0)

(15.4)

(37.2)

 
 
 
 
Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

69

Notes 

2011 
£m 

2010
£m

40 

31 

15 

28 

26 

26 

– 

(2.8) 

220.0 

(335.1) 

– 

(4.9) 

(0.6) 

(123.4) 

0.3 

91.5 

(0.9) 

90.9 

– 

90.9 

236.7

(4.5)

–

(139.4)

(13.4)

(7.4)

(0.6)

71.4

66.9

28.3

(0.6)

94.6

(3.1)

91.5

For the year ended 30 September 2011 

Cash flows from financing activities  

Proceeds from the issue of share capital  

Purchase of own shares 

Proceeds from new borrowings  

Repayment of borrowings  

Settlement of derivative contract 

Dividends paid 

Payments to defined benefit pension scheme 

Net cash (outflow)/inflow from financing activities 

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year 

Net exchange movements on cash and cash equivalents 

Total cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year 

Cash held in Sovereign Reversions Limited at the end of the year 

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year 

Consolidated statement of cash flows  

For the year ended 30 September 2011 

Cash flow from operating activities 

Profit/(loss) for the year 

Depreciation 

Net gain on acquisition of subsidiary 

Goodwill impairment  

Net valuation deficits on investment property 

Net finance costs 

Share of profit of associates and joint ventures 

Profit on disposal of investment property 

Provision for impairment of loans receivable net of write-backs 

Profit on redemption of equity units in associate 

Share-based payment charge  

Change in fair value of derivatives 

Interest income from financial interest in property assets 

Taxation 

Operating profit before changes in working capital 

Increase in trade and other receivables 

Decrease in trade and other payables 

Decrease in provisions for liabilities and charges 

Decrease in trading property 

Cash generated from operations 

Interest paid 

Taxation (paid)/refund 

Net cash inflow from operating activities  

Cash flow from investing activities  

Proceeds from sale of investment property  

Proceeds from financial interest in property assets 

Proceeds from redemption of equity units in associate 

Interest received 

Proceeds from disposal of interest in subsidiary 

Acquisition of subsidiaries, net of cash acquired 

Investment in associates and joint ventures 

Acquisition of investment property and property, plant and equipment 

Net cash inflow/(outflow) from investing activities 

Notes

19, 20

20, 24

18

41

22

17

13

8

19

32

25

21

14

14

8

21

19

42

41

19, 20

17, 18

2011 

£m 

39.1 

0.6 

(16.1) 

2.2 

2.0 

79.9 

(6.5) 

(1.1) 

4.2 

– 

2.0 

28.0 

(7.9) 

(13.0) 

113.4 

(0.8) 

(4.8) 

(0.2) 

71.7 

179.3 

(73.1) 

(4.4) 

101.8 

24.6 

9.2 

0.1 

1.9 

17.5 

(23.1) 

(2.4) 

(5.9) 

21.9 

2010

£m

(10.8)

0.7

(2.8)

1.5

0.8

76.3

(10.2)

(0.4)

10.7

(1.0)

1.3

39.6

(2.5)

(10.0)

93.2

(2.5)

(23.9)

–

42.5

109.3

(80.2)

3.6

32.7

9.9

10.8

9.8

1.7

–

(47.0)

(7.0)

(15.4)

(37.2)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

70

Notes to the financial statements 

1 Accounting policies 
(a) Basis of preparation 
Grainger plc is a company incorporated and domiciled in the UK. It is a public limited liability company listed on the London Stock 
Exchange and the address of the registered office is given on page 154. The group financial statements consolidate those of the company 
and its subsidiaries, together referred to as the ‘group’, and equity account the group’s interest in joint ventures and associates. The parent 
company financial statements present information about the company and not about its group. 

These financial statements for the year ended 30 September 2011 have been prepared in accordance with EU endorsed International 
Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRSs’), IFRIC interpretations and those parts of the Companies Act 2006 applicable to companies reporting 
under IFRS. The company has elected to prepare its company financial statements in accordance with UK GAAP. These are presented on 
pages 146 to 152. 

The accounting policies set out below have, unless otherwise stated, been applied consistently to all periods presented in the group 
financial statements.  

The group financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for the following assets and liabilities 
which are stated at their fair value; investment property, derivative financial instruments and financial interest in property assets. 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions 
that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, income and expenses. Although these 
estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of the events and amounts involved, actual results ultimately may differ from those 
estimates. 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 2. 

(b) Basis of consolidation 
i) Subsidiaries 
Subsidiaries are all entities (including special purposes 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 control ceases. 

Inter-company transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between group companies are eliminated. Accounting policies 
of subsidiaries have been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the group. 

ii) Goodwill and impairment 
The purchase method of accounting is used to account for the acquisition of subsidiaries by the group. The cost of the acquisition is 
measured as the fair value of the assets given and equity instruments issued. Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities and contingent 
liabilities assumed in a business combination are measured initially at their fair values at the date of acquisition. Goodwill represents the 
excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the group’s share of net identifiable assets including intangible assets of the 
acquired entity at the date of acquisition. If the cost of the acquisition is less than the fair value of the net assets of the subsidiary acquired, 
the difference is recognised directly in the income statement. Costs attributable to an acquisition are expensed in the consolidated income 
statement under the heading ‘Other income and expenses’.  

Goodwill on acquisition of subsidiaries is included within this caption on the statement of financial position. Goodwill on acquisition of 
joint ventures and associates is included in investments in joint ventures and associates.  

Goodwill is allocated to cash generating units for the purpose of impairment testing and is tested annually for impairment and carried at 
cost less accumulated impairment losses. Impairment losses on goodwill are not reversed. Gains and losses on the disposal of an entity 
include the carrying amount of goodwill relating to the entity sold. 

 
Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

71

iii) Joint ventures and associates 
Joint ventures are those entities over whose activities the group has joint control, established by contractual agreement. 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. Significant influence is the power to participate in the financial and operating decisions of the investee but is not 
control or joint control over those policies.  

Investments in joint ventures and associates are accounted for by the equity method of accounting and are initially recognised at cost. The 
group’s investment in joint ventures and associates includes goodwill (net of any accumulated impairment loss) identified on acquisition. 

The group’s share of its joint ventures’ and associates’ post-acquisition profits or losses is recognised in the income statement, and its share 
of post-acquisition movements in reserves is recognised in other comprehensive income. Where the group’s interest has been reduced to 
£nil, additional losses are provided for, and a liability is recognised, only to the extent that the group has incurred legal or constructive 
obligations or made payments on behalf of the joint venture or associate. The cumulative post-acquisition movements are adjusted against 
the carrying amount of the investment.  

Unrealised gains on transactions between the group and its joint ventures and associates are eliminated to the extent of the group’s 
interest in joint ventures and associates. The accounting policies of joint ventures and associates have been changed where necessary to 
ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the group.  

iv) Transactions with non-controlling interests 
The group applies a policy of treating transactions with non-controlling interests as transactions with parties external to the group. 
Disposals to non-controlling interests resulting in gains or losses for the group are recorded in equity. On acquisition of non-controlling 
interests, where the consideration paid exceeds the relevant share acquired of the carrying value of net assets of the subsidiary the 
difference is recorded in equity as a deduction from retained earnings. 

(c) Segmental reporting 
The group’s risks and rates of return are affected predominantly by differences between the property asset types it owns and manages. 
A business segment is a distinguishable group of assets and operations, reflected in the way that the group manages its business, that is 
subject to risks and returns that are different from those of other business segments. 

IFRS 8, ‘Operating Segments’ (‘IFRS 8’) requires operating segments to be identified based upon the Group’s internal reporting to the 
chief operating decision maker (‘CODM’) to make decisions about resources to be allocated to segments and to assess their performance. 
The group’s CODM is the chief executive officer.  

ii) Goodwill and impairment 

The group has identified five such segments as follows: 

  UK residential; 
  Retirement solutions; 
  Fund management/residential investments; 
  UK and European development; and 
  German residential.  

All of the above segments are UK based except European tenanted residential which has its assets and tenants based in Germany and 
Development which includes assets based in the Czech Republic. More detail is given relating to each of the above segments, and their 
geographical split on pages 4 to 22 of the Business review and in note 4.  

Notes to the financial statements 

1 Accounting policies 

(a) Basis of preparation 

Grainger plc is a company incorporated and domiciled in the UK. It is a public limited liability company listed on the London Stock 

Exchange and the address of the registered office is given on page 154. The group financial statements consolidate those of the company 

and its subsidiaries, together referred to as the ‘group’, and equity account the group’s interest in joint ventures and associates. The parent 

company financial statements present information about the company and not about its group. 

These financial statements for the year ended 30 September 2011 have been prepared in accordance with EU endorsed International 

Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRSs’), IFRIC interpretations and those parts of the Companies Act 2006 applicable to companies reporting 

under IFRS. The company has elected to prepare its company financial statements in accordance with UK GAAP. These are presented on 

The accounting policies set out below have, unless otherwise stated, been applied consistently to all periods presented in the group 

pages 146 to 152. 

financial statements.  

The group financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for the following assets and liabilities 

which are stated at their fair value; investment property, derivative financial instruments and financial interest in property assets. 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions 

that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, income and expenses. Although these 

estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of the events and amounts involved, actual results ultimately may differ from those 

estimates. 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 2. 

(b) Basis of consolidation 

i) Subsidiaries 

Subsidiaries are all entities (including special purposes 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 control ceases. 

Inter-company transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between group companies are eliminated. Accounting policies 

of subsidiaries have been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the group. 

The purchase method of accounting is used to account for the acquisition of subsidiaries by the group. The cost of the acquisition is 

measured as the fair value of the assets given and equity instruments issued. Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities and contingent 

liabilities assumed in a business combination are measured initially at their fair values at the date of acquisition. Goodwill represents the 

excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the group’s share of net identifiable assets including intangible assets of the 

acquired entity at the date of acquisition. If the cost of the acquisition is less than the fair value of the net assets of the subsidiary acquired, 

the difference is recognised directly in the income statement. Costs attributable to an acquisition are expensed in the consolidated income 

statement under the heading ‘Other income and expenses’.  

Goodwill on acquisition of subsidiaries is included within this caption on the statement of financial position. Goodwill on acquisition of 

joint ventures and associates is included in investments in joint ventures and associates.  

Goodwill is allocated to cash generating units for the purpose of impairment testing and is tested annually for impairment and carried at 

cost less accumulated impairment losses. Impairment losses on goodwill are not reversed. Gains and losses on the disposal of an entity 

include the carrying amount of goodwill relating to the entity sold. 

 
 
 
Grainger plc

72

Notes to the financial statements continued 

1 Accounting policies continued 
The group has a segment director responsible for the performance of each of these five segments and the group reports key financial 
information to the CODM on the basis of these five segments. Each of these five segments operates within a different part of the overall 
residential market. 

The title ‘All other segments’ has been included in the segmental tables in note 4 to reconcile the segments to the figures reviewed 
by the CODM. 

The measure of profit or loss used by the CODM is the trading profit or loss before valuation gains or deficits on investment properties and 
excluding all revaluation and non recurring items as set out in note 3. The CODM reviews by segment two key balance sheet measures of 
net asset value. These are Gross net asset value (‘NAV’) and Triple net asset value (‘NNNAV’) measures. Both measures include trading 
stock at market value as opposed to the lower of cost and net realisable value. 

Gross net asset value is defined as the market value of net assets before deduction for deferred tax on property revaluations and before 
adjustments for the fair value of derivatives.  

Triple net asset value is defined as gross net asset value adjusted for deferred and contingent tax on revaluation gains and for mark to 
market adjustments. 

Information relating to the group’s operating segments and the two net asset value measures is set out in note 4. 

(d) Share capital  
Ordinary shares are classified as equity. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares or options are shown in equity as 
a deduction, net of tax, from the proceeds. 

(e) Foreign currency translation 
i) Functional and presentation currency 
Items included in the financial statements of each of the group’s entities are measured using the currency of the primary economic 
environment in which the entity operates (‘the functional currency’). The consolidated financial statements are presented in pounds 
Sterling, which is the company’s functional and presentation currency. 

ii) Foreign currency transactions 
Foreign currency transactions are translated at the foreign exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Monetary assets and 
liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the balance sheet date are translated into sterling at the foreign exchange rate ruling at that 
date. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions are recognised in the income statement. 

iii) Foreign operations 
The assets and liabilities of foreign operations, including goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on consolidation, are translated to 
Sterling at foreign exchange rates ruling at the balance sheet date. Revenues and expenses of foreign operations are translated at average 
foreign exchange rates for the relevant period. Foreign exchange gains and losses are recognised within the consolidated statement of 
comprehensive income. 

iv) Net investment hedges 
Hedges of net investments in foreign operations are accounted for similarly to cash flow hedges. Any gain or loss on the hedging 
instrument relating to the effective portion of the hedge is recognised in other comprehensive income within the translation reserve as part 
of retained earnings. Any gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognised in the income statement within interest expense and 
similar charges. Gains and losses accumulated in equity are included in the income statement when the foreign operation is partially 
disposed of or sold. 

(f) Investment property 
Property that is held for long-term rental yields or for capital appreciation or both, and that is not occupied by the companies in the 
consolidated group, is classified as investment property. 

 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

1 Accounting policies continued 

The group has a segment director responsible for the performance of each of these five segments and the group reports key financial 

information to the CODM on the basis of these five segments. Each of these five segments operates within a different part of the overall 

The title ‘All other segments’ has been included in the segmental tables in note 4 to reconcile the segments to the figures reviewed 

residential market. 

by the CODM. 

The measure of profit or loss used by the CODM is the trading profit or loss before valuation gains or deficits on investment properties and 

excluding all revaluation and non recurring items as set out in note 3. The CODM reviews by segment two key balance sheet measures of 

net asset value. These are Gross net asset value (‘NAV’) and Triple net asset value (‘NNNAV’) measures. Both measures include trading 

stock at market value as opposed to the lower of cost and net realisable value. 

Gross net asset value is defined as the market value of net assets before deduction for deferred tax on property revaluations and before 

adjustments for the fair value of derivatives.  

Triple net asset value is defined as gross net asset value adjusted for deferred and contingent tax on revaluation gains and for mark to 

Information relating to the group’s operating segments and the two net asset value measures is set out in note 4. 

Ordinary shares are classified as equity. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares or options are shown in equity as 

market adjustments. 

(d) Share capital  

a deduction, net of tax, from the proceeds. 

(e) Foreign currency translation 

i) Functional and presentation currency 

Items included in the financial statements of each of the group’s entities are measured using the currency of the primary economic 

environment in which the entity operates (‘the functional currency’). The consolidated financial statements are presented in pounds 

Sterling, which is the company’s functional and presentation currency. 

ii) Foreign currency transactions 

Foreign currency transactions are translated at the foreign exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Monetary assets and 

liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the balance sheet date are translated into sterling at the foreign exchange rate ruling at that 

date. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions are recognised in the income statement. 

The assets and liabilities of foreign operations, including goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on consolidation, are translated to 

Sterling at foreign exchange rates ruling at the balance sheet date. Revenues and expenses of foreign operations are translated at average 

foreign exchange rates for the relevant period. Foreign exchange gains and losses are recognised within the consolidated statement of 

Hedges of net investments in foreign operations are accounted for similarly to cash flow hedges. Any gain or loss on the hedging 

instrument relating to the effective portion of the hedge is recognised in other comprehensive income within the translation reserve as part 

of retained earnings. Any gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognised in the income statement within interest expense and 

similar charges. Gains and losses accumulated in equity are included in the income statement when the foreign operation is partially 

iii) Foreign operations 

comprehensive income. 

iv) Net investment hedges 

disposed of or sold. 

(f) Investment property 

Property that is held for long-term rental yields or for capital appreciation or both, and that is not occupied by the companies in the 

consolidated group, is classified as investment property. 

Annual report and accounts 2011

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Investment property is measured initially at its cost, including related transaction costs. 

After initial recognition, investment property is carried at fair value. Fair value is based on active market prices, adjusted, if necessary, for 
any difference in the nature, location or condition of the specified asset. If this information is not available, the group uses alternative 
valuation methods such as recent prices on less active markets or discounted cash flow projections.  

Subsequent expenditure is included in the carrying amount of the property when it is probable that the future economic benefits 
associated with the item will flow to the group and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. All other repairs and maintenance costs 
are charged to the income statement during the financial period in which they are incurred.  

Gains or losses arising from changes in the fair value of the group’s investment properties are included in the income statement of the 
period in which they arise. 

(g) Property, plant and equipment 
Property, plant and equipment is stated at historical cost less subsequent depreciation and impairment. Cost includes expenditure that is 
directly attributable to the acquisition of the items. 

Subsequent costs are included in the assets’ carrying amount or recognised as a separate asset, as appropriate, only when it is probable 
that the future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the group and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. 
All other repairs and maintenance costs are charged to the income statement during the financial period in which they are incurred. 

Depreciation on property, plant and equipment is calculated using the straight-line method to allocate their cost less residual values over 
their estimated useful lives, as follows: 

Fixtures, fittings and equipment 

Five years 

The assets’ residual values and useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at each balance sheet date. 

(h) Financial interest in property assets 
Financial interest in property assets is initially recognised at fair value plus transaction costs and subsequently carried at fair value. 
Subsequent to initial recognition, the net change in value that is recorded through the income statement is as follows: i) the carrying value 
of the assets is increased by the effective interest rate and ii) the carrying value of the assets is revised to the net present value of the 
updated projected cash flows arising from the instrument using the effective interest rate applicable at acquisition. The change in value 
recorded through the income statement is shown on the line ‘finance income from financial interest in property assets’. Cash received 
from the instrument in the year is deducted from the carrying value of the asset.  

Differences between the updated projected cash flows using the effective interest rate applicable at acquisition compared to updated 
projected cash flows using a year end effective interest rate, assessed as the rate available in the market for an instrument with a similar 
maturity and credit risk, are taken through other comprehensive income with a corresponding adjustment to the carrying value of the 
assets. When gains or losses in the assets are realised, the accumulated fair value adjustments recognised in equity are included in the 
income statement as gains and losses from financial interest in property assets.  

(i) Inventories – trading property 
Tenanted residential properties held for sale in the normal course of business are shown in the financial statements at the lower of 
cost and net realisable value. Cost includes legal and surveying charges and introducer fees incurred during acquisition together with 
improvement costs. Net realisable value is the net sale proceeds which the group expects on sale of a property with vacant possession. 

Land and property held within the development segment of the business, including house-building sites, are shown in the financial 
statements at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost represents the acquisition price including legal and other professional costs 
associated with the acquisition together with subsequent development costs net of amounts transferred to costs of sale. Net realisable 
value is the expected net sales proceeds of the developed property.  

Where residential properties are sold tenanted or where land is sold without development, net realisable value is the current market value 
net of associated selling costs. 

 
 
Grainger plc

74

Notes to the financial statements continued 

1 Accounting policies continued 
(j) Cash and cash equivalents 
Cash and cash equivalents includes cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term highly liquid investments with original 
maturities of three months or less. 

(k) Income tax 
Income tax on the profits or losses for the periods presented comprises both current and deferred tax. Current tax is the expected tax 
payable on the taxable income for the year using rates applicable during the year. Tax payable upon the realisation of revaluation gains 
recognised in prior periods is recorded as a current tax charge with a release of the associated deferred taxation. 

Deferred income tax is recognised, 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, the deferred income tax is not accounted for if it 
arises from initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction other than a business combination that at the time of the transaction 
affects neither accounting nor taxable profit or loss. Deferred income tax is determined using tax rates (and laws) that have been enacted 
or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date and are expected to apply when the related deferred income tax asset is realised or the 
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 income tax is provided on temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries and associates, except where the timing of 
the reversal of the temporary difference is controlled by the group and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the 
foreseeable future. 

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 assets and liabilities relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority on either 
the taxable entity or different taxable entities where there is an intention to settle the balances on a net basis. 

(l) Employee benefits 
i) Defined contribution pension scheme 
Obligations for contributions to defined contribution pension schemes are recognised as an expense in the income statement in the period 
to which they relate. 

ii) Defined benefit pension scheme 
The group currently contributes to a defined benefit pension scheme that was closed to new members and employee contributions in 
2003. The full deficit in the scheme was recognised in the balance sheet as at 1 October 2004. 

An actuarial valuation of the scheme is carried out every three years. The cost of providing benefits is determined using the Projected Unit 
Credit Method, with actuarial valuations being carried out at each balance sheet date by a qualified actuary, also under the Projected Unit 
Credit Method, for the purpose of determining the amounts to be reflected in the group’s financial statements under IAS 19. 

The liability recognised in the balance sheet is the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the balance sheet date less the fair 
value of scheme assets. 

There are no current or past service costs as the scheme is closed to new members and employee contributions. Interest on pension 
scheme liabilities and the expected return on pension scheme assets are reflected in the income statement each year. Actuarial gains and 
losses net of deferred income tax are reflected in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income each year. 

 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

1 Accounting policies continued 

(j) Cash and cash equivalents 

maturities of three months or less. 

(k) Income tax 

Cash and cash equivalents includes cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term highly liquid investments with original 

Income tax on the profits or losses for the periods presented comprises both current and deferred tax. Current tax is the expected tax 

payable on the taxable income for the year using rates applicable during the year. Tax payable upon the realisation of revaluation gains 

recognised in prior periods is recorded as a current tax charge with a release of the associated deferred taxation. 

Deferred income tax is recognised, 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, the deferred income tax is not accounted for if it 

arises from initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction other than a business combination that at the time of the transaction 

affects neither accounting nor taxable profit or loss. Deferred income tax is determined using tax rates (and laws) that have been enacted 

or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date and are expected to apply when the related deferred income tax asset is realised or the 

Deferred income tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the 

Deferred income tax is provided on temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries and associates, except where the timing of 

the reversal of the temporary difference is controlled by the group and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the 

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 assets and liabilities relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority on either 

the taxable entity or different taxable entities where there is an intention to settle the balances on a net basis. 

deferred income tax liability is settled. 

temporary differences can be utilised. 

foreseeable future. 

(l) Employee benefits 

i) Defined contribution pension scheme 

to which they relate. 

ii) Defined benefit pension scheme 

Obligations for contributions to defined contribution pension schemes are recognised as an expense in the income statement in the period 

The group currently contributes to a defined benefit pension scheme that was closed to new members and employee contributions in 

2003. The full deficit in the scheme was recognised in the balance sheet as at 1 October 2004. 

An actuarial valuation of the scheme is carried out every three years. The cost of providing benefits is determined using the Projected Unit 

Credit Method, with actuarial valuations being carried out at each balance sheet date by a qualified actuary, also under the Projected Unit 

Credit Method, for the purpose of determining the amounts to be reflected in the group’s financial statements under IAS 19. 

The liability recognised in the balance sheet is the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the balance sheet date less the fair 

value of scheme assets. 

There are no current or past service costs as the scheme is closed to new members and employee contributions. Interest on pension 

scheme liabilities and the expected return on pension scheme assets are reflected in the income statement each year. Actuarial gains and 

losses net of deferred income tax are reflected in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income each year. 

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iii) Share-based compensation  
The group operates a number of equity-settled, share-based compensation plans comprising awards under a Long-term Incentive Scheme 
(‘LTIS’), a deferred bonus plan (‘DBP’), a Share Incentive Plan (‘SIP’) and a save as you earn (‘SAYE’) scheme. The fair value of the employee 
services received in exchange for the grant of shares and options is recognised as an employee expense. The total amount to be expensed 
over the vesting period is determined by reference to the fair value of the shares and options granted. For market based conditions, 
the probability of vesting is taken into account in the fair value calculation and no revision is made to the number of shares or options 
expected to vest. For non-market conditions, each year the group revises its estimate of the number of options or shares that are expected 
to vest. It recognises the impact of the revision to original estimates, if any, in the income statement with a corresponding adjustment 
to equity. 

Awards that are subject to a market-based performance condition are valued at fair value using the Monte Carlo simulation model. 
Awards not subject to a market-based performance condition are valued at fair value using the Black Scholes valuation model. 

When options are exercised the proceeds received net of any directly attributable transaction costs, are credited to share capital (nominal 
value) and share premium. 

(m) Revenue recognition 
Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable and is stated net of sales taxes and value added taxes. 
Revenue is recognised on our three primary income streams as follows:  

i) Income from property trading 
Revenue and profits or losses arising from the sale of trading and investment property are included in the income statement where 
contract completion has taken place. Profits or losses are calculated by reference to the carrying value of property and are included in 
operating profit. 

ii) Rental income 
Rental income from operating leases is recognised on a straight-line basis over the lease term on an accruals basis.  

iii) Management fee income 
Management fee income is recognised in the accounting period in which the services are rendered.  

In addition, income is recognised as follows on service charges and investments: 

Service charges 
The group is responsible for providing service charge services in both the UK and in Germany. Where Grainger is exposed to the significant 
risks and rewards associated with the rendering of services it is acting as principal. Otherwise it is acting as agent. 

In the UK, Grainger acts primarily as agent. Accordingly service charge receivables and payables are shown net in the balance sheet.  

In Germany, Grainger acts primarily as principal. Accordingly service charge income and costs are shown gross in the income statement 
with service charge recoveries from tenants recorded as a component of group revenue. Where recovery of service charges is doubtful a 
provision for impairment is made. 

Income from investments 
Dividend income from investments is recognised when the shareholders’ rights to receive payment have been established. 

Group revenue
Group revenue set out in note 5, comprises gross rental income, service charge income on a principal basis, gross proceeds, before sales 
costs, from the sale of trading properties and management fee and other income. 

 
 
Grainger plc

76

Notes to the financial statements continued 

1 Accounting policies continued 
(n) Leases 
i) Group as lessor  
The net present value of ground rents receivable is, in the opinion of the directors, immaterial. Accordingly, ground rents receivable are 
taken to the income statement on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease. Properties leased out to tenants are included in the 
balance sheet as either investment property or as trading property under inventories.  

Where the group grants a lifetime lease on an investment property and receives from the lessee an upfront payment in respect of the 
grant of the lease, the upfront payment is treated as deferred rent in the balance sheet. This deferred rent is released to the income 
statement on a straight-line basis over the projected term of the lease. At each year end the projected term of the lease is revised on an 
actuarial basis and the remaining deferred rent is released to the income statement on a straight-line basis over this revised lease term. 

ii) Group as lessee 
The group occupies a number of its offices as a lessee. After a review of all of its occupational leases, the directors have concluded that all 
such leases are operating leases. Payments, including prepayments, made under operating leases (net of any incentives received from the 
lessor) are charged to the income statement on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease. 

The net present value of ground rents payable is, in the opinion of the directors, immaterial. Accordingly, ground rent expenses are taken 
to the income statement on a straight-line basis over the lease term.  

(o) Derivative financial instruments  
Derivatives 
The group uses derivative instruments to help manage its interest rate risk. In accordance with its treasury policy, the group does not hold 
or issue derivatives for trading purposes. Derivatives are classified as current assets and current liabilities.  

The derivatives are recognised initially at fair value. Subsequently, the gain or loss on re-measurement to fair value is recognised 
immediately in the income statement, unless the derivatives qualify for cash flow hedge accounting in which case any gain or loss is taken 
to equity in a cash flow hedge reserve.  

In order to qualify for hedge accounting, the group is required to document in advance the relationship between the item being hedged 
and the hedging instrument. The group is also required to demonstrate that the hedge will be highly effective on an ongoing basis. 
This effectiveness testing is re-performed at each period end to ensure that the hedge remains highly effective. 

When a hedging instrument expires or is sold, or when a hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, any cumulative gain or 
loss existing in equity at that time remains in equity and is recognised when the forecasted transaction is ultimately recognised in the 
income statement. When a forecasted transaction is no longer expected to occur, the cumulative gain or loss that was recognised in equity 
is immediately transferred to the income statement. 

Fair value estimation 
The fair value of interest rate swaps is based on a discounted cash flow model using quoted market information. 

(p) Derecognition of financial assets and liabilities  
Derecognition is the point at which the group removes an asset or a liability from its balance sheet. The group’s policy is to derecognise 
financial assets only when the contractual right to the cash flows from the financial asset expires. The group also derecognises financial 
assets that it transfers to another party provided that the transfer of the assets also transfers the right to receive cash flows from the 
financial asset. When the transfer does not result in the group transferring the right to receive cash flows from the financial asset but it 
does result in the group assuming a corresponding obligation to pay cash flows to another recipient, the financial asset is derecognised. 

The group derecognises financial liabilities only when its obligation is discharged, is cancelled or expires. 

Financial assets classified as available-for-sale is the financial interest in property assets. Derivative financial instruments not in hedge 
accounting relationships are classified as fair value through profit and loss.  

 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

1 Accounting policies continued 

(n) Leases 

i) Group as lessor  

The net present value of ground rents receivable is, in the opinion of the directors, immaterial. Accordingly, ground rents receivable are 

taken to the income statement on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease. Properties leased out to tenants are included in the 

balance sheet as either investment property or as trading property under inventories.  

Where the group grants a lifetime lease on an investment property and receives from the lessee an upfront payment in respect of the 

grant of the lease, the upfront payment is treated as deferred rent in the balance sheet. This deferred rent is released to the income 

statement on a straight-line basis over the projected term of the lease. At each year end the projected term of the lease is revised on an 

actuarial basis and the remaining deferred rent is released to the income statement on a straight-line basis over this revised lease term. 

ii) Group as lessee 

The group occupies a number of its offices as a lessee. After a review of all of its occupational leases, the directors have concluded that all 

such leases are operating leases. Payments, including prepayments, made under operating leases (net of any incentives received from the 

lessor) are charged to the income statement on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease. 

The net present value of ground rents payable is, in the opinion of the directors, immaterial. Accordingly, ground rent expenses are taken 

to the income statement on a straight-line basis over the lease term.  

(o) Derivative financial instruments  

Derivatives 

The group uses derivative instruments to help manage its interest rate risk. In accordance with its treasury policy, the group does not hold 

or issue derivatives for trading purposes. Derivatives are classified as current assets and current liabilities.  

The derivatives are recognised initially at fair value. Subsequently, the gain or loss on re-measurement to fair value is recognised 

immediately in the income statement, unless the derivatives qualify for cash flow hedge accounting in which case any gain or loss is taken 

to equity in a cash flow hedge reserve.  

In order to qualify for hedge accounting, the group is required to document in advance the relationship between the item being hedged 

and the hedging instrument. The group is also required to demonstrate that the hedge will be highly effective on an ongoing basis. 

This effectiveness testing is re-performed at each period end to ensure that the hedge remains highly effective. 

When a hedging instrument expires or is sold, or when a hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, any cumulative gain or 

loss existing in equity at that time remains in equity and is recognised when the forecasted transaction is ultimately recognised in the 

income statement. When a forecasted transaction is no longer expected to occur, the cumulative gain or loss that was recognised in equity 

is immediately transferred to the income statement. 

Fair value estimation 

The fair value of interest rate swaps is based on a discounted cash flow model using quoted market information. 

(p) Derecognition of financial assets and liabilities  

Derecognition is the point at which the group removes an asset or a liability from its balance sheet. The group’s policy is to derecognise 

financial assets only when the contractual right to the cash flows from the financial asset expires. The group also derecognises financial 

assets that it transfers to another party provided that the transfer of the assets also transfers the right to receive cash flows from the 

financial asset. When the transfer does not result in the group transferring the right to receive cash flows from the financial asset but it 

does result in the group assuming a corresponding obligation to pay cash flows to another recipient, the financial asset is derecognised. 

The group derecognises financial liabilities only when its obligation is discharged, is cancelled or expires. 

Financial assets classified as available-for-sale is the financial interest in property assets. Derivative financial instruments not in hedge 

accounting relationships are classified as fair value through profit and loss.  

Annual report and accounts 2011

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Financials

77

(q) At fair value through profit or loss financial asset 
At fair value through profit or loss financial assets are included in the balance sheet at fair value with changes in fair value taken through 
the income statement. At fair value through profit or loss financial assets are managed, and their performance is evaluated, on a fair value 
basis in accordance with the group’s documented investment policy. 

(r) Borrowings 
Borrowings are initially recognised at cost, being the fair value of consideration received, net of transaction costs incurred. Borrowings 
are subsequently stated at amortised cost. Any difference between the proceeds (net of transaction costs) and the redemption value is 
recognised in the income statement over the period of the borrowings using the effective interest method. 

Borrowings are classified as current liabilities unless the group has an unconditional right to defer settlement of the liability for at least 
12 months after the balance sheet date. 

(s) Convertible bond  
The convertible bond is a compound financial instrument and the carrying amount has been allocated to its equity and liability 
components in the group balance sheet. The liability component has been determined by measuring the fair value of a similar liability that 
does not have an associated equity component. The discount rate used for this was based on a rate of 7.5% compounded semi-annually. 
The liability component has been deducted from the fair value of the compound financial instrument as a whole and the residual element 
has been assigned to the equity component. The liability element is subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest 
rate method. 

(t) 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 in trade receivables is established when there is objective evidence that the group will 
not be able to collect all amounts due. 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 effective interest rate. The movement in the provision is recognised in the income 
statement. 

(u) Trade payables 
Trade payables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. 

(v) Provisions 
Provisions are recognised when (a) the group has a present obligation as a result of a past event and (b) it is probable that an outflow of 
resources will be required to settle the obligation and (c) a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. 

(w) Dividends 
Dividend distributions to the company’s shareholders are recognised as a liability in the group financial statements in the period in 
which the dividends either are approved by the company’s shareholders or are appropriately authorised and no longer at the discretion 
of the group. 

(x) Assets held for sale 
Where a group of assets are to be disposed of by sale together or as a single group, they are classified as a disposal group. The disposal 
group is classified as held for sale as defined by IFRS 5 when they are available-for-sale in their present condition and the sale is highly 
probable and expected to be completed within one year from the date of classification. 

 
 
Grainger plc

78

Notes to the financial statements continued 

1 Accounting policies continued 
(y) Acquisition of and investment in own shares 
The group acquires its own shares to enable it to meet its obligations under the various share schemes in operation. No gain or loss is 
recognised in profit or loss on the purchase, sale, issue or cancellation of the company’s own shares. The acquisition cost of the shares is 
debited to an investment in own shares reserve within retained earnings. When shares are issued to employees, a transfer is made at the 
average cost of the shares issued between the investment in own shares reserve and the share-based payments reserve all within retained 
earnings (see note 34). 

Where the group buys back its own shares as treasury shares it adopts the accounting as described above. Where it subsequently cancels 
them, issued share capital is reduced by the nominal value of the shares cancelled and this same amount is transferred to the capital 
redemption reserve. 

(z) Impact of standards and interpretations issued 
i) New standards and interpretations in the year  
At the date of approval of these financial statements, the following interpretations and amendments were issued, endorsed by the EU and 
are mandatory for the group for the first time for the financial year beginning 1 October 2010. 

International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee (‘IFRIC’) interpretations 
  IFRIC 15 ‘Arrangement for construction of real estates’ clarifies when IAS 18 ‘Revenue Recognition’ and IAS 11 ‘Construction contracts’ 

should be applied to particular transactions. 

  IFRIC 18 ‘Transfer of assets from customers’ clarifies the accounting for arrangements where an item of property, plant and equipment 

that is provided by the customer is used to provide an ongoing service. 

  IFRIC 19 ‘Extinguishing financial liabilities with equity instruments’ clarifies the accounting when an entity renegotiates the terms of its 

debt with the result that the liability is extinguished through the creditor issuing its own equity instruments to the debtor. 

Amendments to existing standards 
  Amendment to IFRS 2 ‘Share-based payment’ was updated to confirm that contribution of a business on the formation of a joint 

venture and common control transactions are not within its scope. 

  Amendment to IFRS 5 ‘Non-current assets held for sale and discontinued operations’ confirmed the disclosure requirements required 

under IAS 1 ‘Presentation of Financial Statements’ paragraphs 15 and 125. 

  Amendment to IFRS 8 ‘Operating Segments’ which removes the automatic requirement to report a measure of total assets for each 

reportable segment. Total assets continue to be reported within note 4 of these financial statements as this measure is regularly provided 
to the chief operating decision maker. 

  Amendment to IAS 1 ‘Presentation of Financial Statements’ was updated to clarify the definition of a current liability where 

classification is derived from the lack of an unconditional right to defer settlement more than 12 months from the statement of 
financial position date. 

  Amendment to IAS 7 ‘Statement of Cash Flows’ which restricts the eligibility of expenditure for inclusion as investing activity cash flows 

to those expenditures which result in recognised assets in the statement of financial position only. 

  Amendment to IAS 17 ‘Leases’ to remove the presumption that leases of land were operating leases unless title transferred to the lessee 

at the end of the lease. 

  Amendment to IAS 18 ‘Revenue Recognition’ to provide guidance for when an entity is acting as principal or agent. This has not resulted 

in any changes in accounting policy for the group. 

  Amendment to IAS 38 ‘Intangible Assets’ to confirm measurement of intangible assets in business combinations. 

  Amendment to IAS 39 ‘Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement’ to confirm the scope of the standard excludes forward 

contracts to enter into a business combination and clarify the definition of external parties for hedge accounting. 

 
 
1 Accounting policies continued 

(y) Acquisition of and investment in own shares 

Amendments to existing interpretations 
  Amendment to IFRIC 9 ‘Reassessment of Embedded Derivatives’ to confirm the scope of the interpretation excludes business 

The group acquires its own shares to enable it to meet its obligations under the various share schemes in operation. No gain or loss is 

combinations. 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

79

  Amendment to IFRIC 16 ‘Hedges of a Net Investment in a Foreign Currency’ to remove the restriction that the foreign entity being 

hedged may not hold the hedging instrument. 

These standards and amendments to these standards and interpretations have had no material financial impact on these financial 
statements.  

ii) Standards and interpretations in issue but not yet effective  
At the date of authorisation of these financial statements there are a number of standards, amendments and interpretations to existing 
standards that have been published but which are not yet effective and which have not been early adopted by the group. These are 
as follows: 

International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’) 
  IFRS 9 ‘Financial Instruments: classification and measurement’ which has two measurement categories: amortised cost and fair value. 
All equity instruments are measured at fair value. A debt instrument is measured at amortised cost only if the entity is holding it to 
collect contractual cash flows and the cash flows represent principal and interest.  

   IFRS 10 ‘Consolidated financial statements’ which identifies the concept of control as the determining factor of whether an entity 

should be included within the consolidated financial statements. 

  IFRS 11 ‘Joint arrangements’ includes revised definitions of joint arrangements which focus on the rights and obligations over the legal 

form. The standard removes the option of proportional consolidation.  

  IFRS 12 ‘Disclosure of interests in other entities’ requires disclosure of all interests in other entities. 

Amendments to existing standards 

  IFRS 13 ‘Fair value measurement’ provides a precise definition of fair value and a single source of fair value measurement and disclosure 

  Amendment to IFRS 2 ‘Share-based payment’ was updated to confirm that contribution of a business on the formation of a joint 

requirements. 

  IAS 27 (revised 2011) ‘Separate Financial Statements’ and IAS 28 (revised 2011) ‘Associates and joint ventures’ include the provisions on 

separate financial statements which are not included in IFRS 10. 

International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee (‘IFRIC’) interpretations 
  IFRIC 14 ‘Prepayments of a minimum funding requirement’ applies only to entities required to make minimum funding contributions to 

a defined benefit pension plan.  

Amendments to existing standards and interpretations 
  Annual improvements 2010 covering changes to IFRS 1, IFRS 3, IFRS 7, IAS1, IAS 27, IAS 34 and IFRIC 13. 

  IAS 24 ‘Related Party Disclosures’ has been amended to remove the requirement for government-related entities to disclose details of all 
transactions with the government and other government-related entities and clarifies and simplifies the definition of a related party.  

  IFRS 7 ‘Financial Instruments: Disclosures’ includes changes to promote transparency in the reporting of transfer transactions and 

improve users’ understanding of the risk exposures of transfers of financial assets. 

  IFRS 1 ‘First time Adoption’ amends fixed dates and includes guidance on implementations affected by hyperinflation. 

  IAS 12 ‘Income taxes’ introduces an exception to the existing principle for the measurement of deferred tax assets or liabilities arising on 

investment property measured at fair value.  

  IAS 19 ‘Employee benefits’ introduces a requirement to group items presented in Other comprehensive income on the basis of whether 

they are potentially recycled to income statement. 

Notes to the financial statements continued 

recognised in profit or loss on the purchase, sale, issue or cancellation of the company’s own shares. The acquisition cost of the shares is 

debited to an investment in own shares reserve within retained earnings. When shares are issued to employees, a transfer is made at the 

average cost of the shares issued between the investment in own shares reserve and the share-based payments reserve all within retained 

Where the group buys back its own shares as treasury shares it adopts the accounting as described above. Where it subsequently cancels 

them, issued share capital is reduced by the nominal value of the shares cancelled and this same amount is transferred to the capital 

earnings (see note 34). 

redemption reserve. 

(z) Impact of standards and interpretations issued 

i) New standards and interpretations in the year  

At the date of approval of these financial statements, the following interpretations and amendments were issued, endorsed by the EU and 

are mandatory for the group for the first time for the financial year beginning 1 October 2010. 

International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee (‘IFRIC’) interpretations 

  IFRIC 15 ‘Arrangement for construction of real estates’ clarifies when IAS 18 ‘Revenue Recognition’ and IAS 11 ‘Construction contracts’ 

should be applied to particular transactions. 

  IFRIC 18 ‘Transfer of assets from customers’ clarifies the accounting for arrangements where an item of property, plant and equipment 

that is provided by the customer is used to provide an ongoing service. 

  IFRIC 19 ‘Extinguishing financial liabilities with equity instruments’ clarifies the accounting when an entity renegotiates the terms of its 

debt with the result that the liability is extinguished through the creditor issuing its own equity instruments to the debtor. 

venture and common control transactions are not within its scope. 

  Amendment to IFRS 5 ‘Non-current assets held for sale and discontinued operations’ confirmed the disclosure requirements required 

under IAS 1 ‘Presentation of Financial Statements’ paragraphs 15 and 125. 

  Amendment to IFRS 8 ‘Operating Segments’ which removes the automatic requirement to report a measure of total assets for each 

reportable segment. Total assets continue to be reported within note 4 of these financial statements as this measure is regularly provided 

to the chief operating decision maker. 

  Amendment to IAS 1 ‘Presentation of Financial Statements’ was updated to clarify the definition of a current liability where 

classification is derived from the lack of an unconditional right to defer settlement more than 12 months from the statement of 

financial position date. 

at the end of the lease. 

  Amendment to IAS 7 ‘Statement of Cash Flows’ which restricts the eligibility of expenditure for inclusion as investing activity cash flows 

to those expenditures which result in recognised assets in the statement of financial position only. 

  Amendment to IAS 17 ‘Leases’ to remove the presumption that leases of land were operating leases unless title transferred to the lessee 

  Amendment to IAS 18 ‘Revenue Recognition’ to provide guidance for when an entity is acting as principal or agent. This has not resulted 

in any changes in accounting policy for the group. 

  Amendment to IAS 38 ‘Intangible Assets’ to confirm measurement of intangible assets in business combinations. 

  Amendment to IAS 39 ‘Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement’ to confirm the scope of the standard excludes forward 

contracts to enter into a business combination and clarify the definition of external parties for hedge accounting. 

 
 
 
Grainger plc

80

Notes to the financial statements continued 

1 Accounting policies continued 
All the above IFRSs, IFRIC interpretations and amendments to existing standards are yet to be endorsed by the European Union (‘EU’) 
at the date of approval of these financial statements with the exception of IAS 24 and IFRIC 14. 

The directors are currently considering the potential impact arising from the future adoption of these standards and interpretations listed 
above. 

2 Critical accounting estimates and assumptions 
The group’s significant accounting policies are stated in note 1 above. Not all of these accounting policies require management to make 
subjective or complex judgements or estimates. The following is intended to provide further detail relating to those accounting policies that 
management consider critical because of the level of complexity, judgement or estimation involved in their application and their impact on 
the consolidated financial statements. The group performs sensitivity analysis as part of the risk management process. Accordingly the 
sensitivities applied in the critical accounting estimates and assumptions are relative to the risk assessment and materiality of each balance. 

Valuation of residential property  
The group’s residential trading property is carried in the balance sheet at the lower of cost and net realisable value. The group’s investment 
property is carried in the balance sheet at fair value. The group does, however, in its principal net asset value measures, NAV and NNNAV, 
include trading stock at market value. The market value of the group’s property which, in the case of investment property, is the same as 
fair value, is established as set out below.  

i) The group’s own in-house qualified surveying team provide a vacant possession value for the majority of the group’s UK based property 
as at 30 September 2011. A structured sample of these in-house valuations are reviewed by Allsop LLP, an external independent valuer. 
Valuing the large number of properties in the portfolio is a significant task. For this reason it is undertaken on an external inspection basis 
only. Invariably, when the in-house valuations are compared to those of the external valuer, around 85% of the valuations are within a 
small acceptable tolerance. Where the difference is more significant this is discussed with the valuer to determine the reasons for the 
difference. Typically the reasons vary but it could be, for example, that further or better information about internal condition is available or 
that respective valuers have placed a different interpretation on comparable sales. Once such reasons have been identified the group and 
the valuer agree the appropriate valuation that should be adopted as the directors’ valuation. Overall, across all of the properties valued by 
Allsop LLP, the directors’ valuations were approximately 1.0% lower than the Allsop LLP values. 

Allsop LLP has provided the directors with the following opinion on the directors’ valuation of the group’s UK property, Property held 
in the core residential and retirement solutions portfolios was valued as at 30 September 2011 by Grainger’s in-house surveyors. 
These valuations were reviewed and approved by the directors. Allsop LLP has undertaken a comprehensive review of the directors’ 
valuation and they are satisfied with the process by which the in-house valuations were conducted. As part of the review, Allsop LLP 
valued approximately 50% of the core residential portfolio and approximately 33% of the retirement solutions portfolio, independently 
of the group. Based on the results of that review Allsop LLP has concluded that they have a high degree of confidence in those 
directors’ valuations.  

Allsop LLP also recommend the discount to apply to the vacant possession valuations to establish the market value of each property. 
For property in UK residential the discounts are established by tenancy type and are based on evidence gathered by Allsop LLP from 
recent transactional market evidence. For property in retirement solutions the discounts recommended by Allsop LLP are on a property- 
by-property basis taking into account a number of factors, primarily the estimated period until vacant possession may arise and the 
appropriate discount rate.  

The directors have adopted all of the recommendations made by Allsop LLP in relation to the discounts.  

For the property held in the group balance sheet as investment property, the valuation process as set out above gave a market value of 
£187.5m. A net valuation deficit of £4.4m has been taken through the income statement in relation to this property. The remaining 
property is held in the group’s balance sheet as trading property at the lower of cost and net realisable value of £839.8m.  

ii) All of the property owned by the group in the Grainger GenInvest portfolio and which is now wholly owned (see note 41(ii)) was valued 
as at 30 September 2011 by Allsop LLP who are external independent valuers.  

 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

1 Accounting policies continued 

All the above IFRSs, IFRIC interpretations and amendments to existing standards are yet to be endorsed by the European Union (‘EU’) 

at the date of approval of these financial statements with the exception of IAS 24 and IFRIC 14. 

The directors are currently considering the potential impact arising from the future adoption of these standards and interpretations listed 

above. 

2 Critical accounting estimates and assumptions 

The group’s significant accounting policies are stated in note 1 above. Not all of these accounting policies require management to make 

subjective or complex judgements or estimates. The following is intended to provide further detail relating to those accounting policies that 

management consider critical because of the level of complexity, judgement or estimation involved in their application and their impact on 

the consolidated financial statements. The group performs sensitivity analysis as part of the risk management process. Accordingly the 

sensitivities applied in the critical accounting estimates and assumptions are relative to the risk assessment and materiality of each balance. 

Valuation of residential property  

The group’s residential trading property is carried in the balance sheet at the lower of cost and net realisable value. The group’s investment 

property is carried in the balance sheet at fair value. The group does, however, in its principal net asset value measures, NAV and NNNAV, 

include trading stock at market value. The market value of the group’s property which, in the case of investment property, is the same as 

fair value, is established as set out below.  

i) The group’s own in-house qualified surveying team provide a vacant possession value for the majority of the group’s UK based property 

as at 30 September 2011. A structured sample of these in-house valuations are reviewed by Allsop LLP, an external independent valuer. 

Valuing the large number of properties in the portfolio is a significant task. For this reason it is undertaken on an external inspection basis 

only. Invariably, when the in-house valuations are compared to those of the external valuer, around 85% of the valuations are within a 

small acceptable tolerance. Where the difference is more significant this is discussed with the valuer to determine the reasons for the 

difference. Typically the reasons vary but it could be, for example, that further or better information about internal condition is available or 

that respective valuers have placed a different interpretation on comparable sales. Once such reasons have been identified the group and 

the valuer agree the appropriate valuation that should be adopted as the directors’ valuation. Overall, across all of the properties valued by 

Allsop LLP, the directors’ valuations were approximately 1.0% lower than the Allsop LLP values. 

Allsop LLP has provided the directors with the following opinion on the directors’ valuation of the group’s UK property, Property held 

in the core residential and retirement solutions portfolios was valued as at 30 September 2011 by Grainger’s in-house surveyors. 

These valuations were reviewed and approved by the directors. Allsop LLP has undertaken a comprehensive review of the directors’ 

valuation and they are satisfied with the process by which the in-house valuations were conducted. As part of the review, Allsop LLP 

valued approximately 50% of the core residential portfolio and approximately 33% of the retirement solutions portfolio, independently 

of the group. Based on the results of that review Allsop LLP has concluded that they have a high degree of confidence in those 

directors’ valuations.  

Allsop LLP also recommend the discount to apply to the vacant possession valuations to establish the market value of each property. 

For property in UK residential the discounts are established by tenancy type and are based on evidence gathered by Allsop LLP from 

recent transactional market evidence. For property in retirement solutions the discounts recommended by Allsop LLP are on a property- 

by-property basis taking into account a number of factors, primarily the estimated period until vacant possession may arise and the 

appropriate discount rate.  

The directors have adopted all of the recommendations made by Allsop LLP in relation to the discounts.  

For the property held in the group balance sheet as investment property, the valuation process as set out above gave a market value of 

£187.5m. A net valuation deficit of £4.4m has been taken through the income statement in relation to this property. The remaining 

property is held in the group’s balance sheet as trading property at the lower of cost and net realisable value of £839.8m.  

ii) All of the property owned by the group in the Grainger GenInvest portfolio and which is now wholly owned (see note 41(ii)) was valued 

as at 30 September 2011 by Allsop LLP who are external independent valuers.  

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

81

The aggregate of the market values of the properties at 30 September 2011 was £298.6m, subject to the assumption that the dwellings 
would be sold individually, in their existing condition, and subject to any existing leases or tenancies. The valuers opinion of market value 
was primarily derived using comparable recent market transactions on arm’s-length terms. Part of the property is held in the group’s 
balance sheet as investment property with a market value of £104.9m at 30 September 2011. The remaining property is held in the 
group’s balance sheet as trading property at the lower of cost and net realisable value of £184.2m. The net gain on valuation of the 
investment property in this portfolio was £3.3m which has been taken through the income statement.  

iii) The whole of the property portfolio in Germany was valued at 30 September 2011 by Cushman and Wakefield LLP who are external 
independent valuers. The Germany portfolio is virtually all held in the group balance sheet as investment property and has a market value 
at 30 September 2011 of €489.3m (£421.4m). The net deficit on valuation of the Germany portfolio was £1.6m which has been taken 
through the income statement. The remaining property is held in the group’s balance sheet as trading property at the lower of cost and 
net realisable value of €1.1m (£0.9m).  

Whilst in the UK, valuers rely predominantly on recent transactional evidence for similar properties to value investment property, in 
Germany investment property is valued using an income capitalisation approach under which net rental income is discounted to a net 
present value. Both methodologies are permitted under IAS 40. 

iv) Allsop LLP has also valued as at 30 September 2011 the property assets owned by Tricomm Housing Limited and let under a long-term 
lease arrangement with the Secretary of State for Defence under a PFI Project Agreement. Allsop LLP has provided a ‘calculation of worth’ 
which is defined as ‘the value of a property to a particular owner, investor or class of investors for identified investment or operational 
objectives’. The ‘calculation of worth’ has been made in accordance with RICS Valuation Standards, is based on a discounted cash flow 
model, and results in a worth of £106.1m as at 30 September 2011. The property is held in the group balance sheet as investment 
property at this figure. A gain on valuation of £0.7m since acquisition (see note 41) has been taken through the income statement.  

v) The group has a 21.96% interest in G:res which has invested in investment property. Valuations of 100% of the G:res portfolio were 
carried out in two parts as at 31 December 2010 and 30 June 2011 by external valuers, Allsop LLP and DTZ Debenham Tie Leung Limited. 
In aggregate, the valuation of the individual dwellings at 30 June 2011 was £384.3m. After full consideration of house price movements 
in those areas where G:res property assets are situated the group’s directors made no adjustment to the 30 June 2011 valuations, other 
than for sales and purchases, in assessing the group’s share of G:res net assets for the purposes of the group’s accounts to 30 September 
2011. For every 1% movement in the market value of the G:res investment property the group’s share of the movement would amount 
to £0.8m.  

All of the external valuers in the UK mentioned above have made full disclosure, as required by RICS Valuation Standards UKVS 4, of the 
extent and duration of their work for, and fees earned by them from, the company, which in all cases are less than 5% of their total fees. 

Net realisable value of trading property 
The group’s residential trading properties are carried in the balance sheet at the lower of cost and net realisable value. In assessing net 
realisable value the group uses the valuations carried out by its own in-house qualified surveying team. As stated above, a structured 
sample of the in-house valuations was reviewed by Allsop LLP, an external independent valuer.  

As the group’s business model is to sell trading stock on vacancy, net realisable value is the net sales proceeds which the group expects on 
sale of a property with vacant possession. A net realisable value provision has been made at 30 September 2011 to write down properties 
expected to be sold ultimately at vacant possession value. The provision has been assessed on what the group considers to be reasonable 
assumptions. These allow for no change to property prices in 2012 followed by growth in house prices of 2.5% in 2013 with price 
increases thereafter in line with conservative historical house price growth rates. The assumptions also allow for an annual vacancy rate of 
6.5%. The group does sell some property as investment sales, a sale with the tenant still in situ. A net realisable value provision has been 
made at 30 September 2011 against projected investment sales. 

In aggregate a charge of £0.8m has been made in the 2011 income statement (credit of £2.3m in 2010 income statement) to adjust the 
book value of trading properties to the lower of cost and net realisable value and at the year end the group is holding a provision of £4.4m 
(2010: £3.6m) in its balance sheet.  

 
 
Grainger plc

82

Notes to the financial statements continued 

2 Critical accounting estimates and assumptions continued 
Land and property held within the development segment of the business, are shown in the financial statements at the lower of cost and 
net realisable value. Net realisable value is the expected net sales proceeds of the developed property and a provision is made when, and 
to the extent that, total projected project costs exceed total projected project revenues. 

Where land and property is sold without development, net realisable value is the current market value net of associated selling costs. 
The current market value of the group’s land and property held within the development segment has been assessed by Knight Frank LLP 
who are external valuers. Their valuation is on the basis of market value as defined in the RICS Valuation Standards.  

Decisions regarding whether to develop a site or to sell a site undeveloped are made by the directors based on market conditions 
prevailing at the time. The assumptions adopted as at 30 September 2011 are based upon the current intentions of the directors. 
In addition, estimates at 30 September 2011 of project profitability are based on assumptions regarding projected build costs and sales 
proceeds for those sites where development is expected to occur. In some cases these projections are made without the benefit of 
planning permission having been agreed. The assumptions made may or may not be borne out in practice. It is possible therefore that the 
net realisable value provision required should be more than or less than that made. 

A charge of £1.0m has been made in the 2011 income statement (credit of £0.6m in 2010) to adjust the book value of development stock 
to net realisable value.  

Valuation of financial interest in property assets 
The valuation is based on an assessment of the future cash flows that will arise from our financial interest and on the effective interest rate 
used to discount those cash flows. The valuation methodology adopted is set out in note 1(h) above. The key assumptions affecting the 
carrying value are house price inflation and the effective interest rate.  

The assumptions adopted with regard to house prices are the same as those set out under ‘net realisable value of trading property’ above. 
A change of 1% to average house price inflation over the 10-year period from 1 October 2011 would either increase the valuation by 
£5.6m or reduce the valuation by £5.8m.  

Consideration has been given to the effective interest rate to adopt for the valuation. We have concluded that the effective interest rate as 
at 30 September 2011 should be the same as the rate adopted at 30 September 2010 which is 0.85% lower than the effective interest 
rate when the financial interest was acquired. A 1% change to the discount rate would either increase the carrying value by £7.2m or 
reduce the carrying value by £6.4m. 

Distinction between investment and trading property 
The group considers the intention at the outset when each property is acquired in order to classify the property as either an investment 
or a trading property. Where the intention is to either trade the property or where the property is held for immediate sale upon receiving 
vacant possession within the ordinary course of business, the property is classified as trading property.  

Where the intention is to hold the property for its long-term rental yield and/or capital appreciation, the property is classified as an 
investment property. 

Income taxes 
There are some transactions and calculations that involve a degree of estimation and judgement and whose tax treatment can not be 
determined until a formal resolution has been reached with the relevant tax authorities. In such cases, the group’s policy is to be prudent in 
its assessment of the tax benefit that may accrue in line with the contingent asset rules set out in IAS 37. Where the final outcome of these 
matters is different from the amounts initially recorded, such differences will impact on the income and deferred tax amounts reflected in 
subsequent accounting periods. 

During the year, the group concluded its discussions with HM Revenue & Customs in connection with a number of outstanding tax 
matters. Further information is provided in note 14.  

 
Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

83

Going concern 
The directors are required to make an assessment of the group’s ability to continue to trade as a going concern for the foreseeable future. 
The directors have given this matter due consideration and have concluded that it is appropriate to prepare the group financial statements 
on a going concern basis. The main considerations were as follows: 

i) Covenant compliance – The group’s core banking facility has two covenants, being loan to value (‘LTV’) and interest cover. At 30 
September 2011 the LTV was 52% compared to a default level of 75% and the interest cover ratio was 3.1 times compared to a 
minimum requirement of 1.35 times. The group has other bank debt on which there are also covenant requirements. As at 30 September 
2011, the group is operating comfortably within these requirements. The directors have reviewed the group’s financial projections 
covering a minimum period of at least 12 months beyond the date of signing of these financial statements, and which include covenant 
compliance forecasts. These projections show that the group will comfortably meet its covenant requirements. 

ii) Banking facilities – The group’s existing core facilities were £1,093m on 30 September 2011, of which £927m were drawn. The group 
had free cash balances plus available overdraft of £48m and undrawn committed facilities of £166m at 30 September 2011. As a result of 
securing £50.3m of debt financing from Partnership Assurance on 5 October 2011, the core facilities have since been reduced to 
£1,043m, of which £877m were drawn as at 25 November 2011. The new forward start facility of £840m (which will be drawn to replace 
the existing facilities by 30 September 2012) together with existing free cash balances of £42m (as at 25 November 2011) will enable the 
group to repay the existing core facilities in the course of the current financial year.  

In addition to the above, the group is actively engaging with a number of interested lenders to provide additional funding and an 
agreement for a further £28.6m of debt financing from Partnership Assurance was concluded on 21 November 2011. 

As has been demonstrated over the past few years, the group is able to generate strong cash flows even in very difficult general market 
conditions. The group’s cash flow projections confirm that the group will remain well within its facilities for a minimum period of at least 
12 months beyond the date of signing of these financial statements. 

Notes to the financial statements continued 

2 Critical accounting estimates and assumptions continued 

Land and property held within the development segment of the business, are shown in the financial statements at the lower of cost and 

net realisable value. Net realisable value is the expected net sales proceeds of the developed property and a provision is made when, and 

to the extent that, total projected project costs exceed total projected project revenues. 

Where land and property is sold without development, net realisable value is the current market value net of associated selling costs. 

The current market value of the group’s land and property held within the development segment has been assessed by Knight Frank LLP 

who are external valuers. Their valuation is on the basis of market value as defined in the RICS Valuation Standards.  

Decisions regarding whether to develop a site or to sell a site undeveloped are made by the directors based on market conditions 

prevailing at the time. The assumptions adopted as at 30 September 2011 are based upon the current intentions of the directors. 

In addition, estimates at 30 September 2011 of project profitability are based on assumptions regarding projected build costs and sales 

proceeds for those sites where development is expected to occur. In some cases these projections are made without the benefit of 

planning permission having been agreed. The assumptions made may or may not be borne out in practice. It is possible therefore that the 

net realisable value provision required should be more than or less than that made. 

A charge of £1.0m has been made in the 2011 income statement (credit of £0.6m in 2010) to adjust the book value of development stock 

to net realisable value.  

Valuation of financial interest in property assets 

The valuation is based on an assessment of the future cash flows that will arise from our financial interest and on the effective interest rate 

used to discount those cash flows. The valuation methodology adopted is set out in note 1(h) above. The key assumptions affecting the 

carrying value are house price inflation and the effective interest rate.  

The assumptions adopted with regard to house prices are the same as those set out under ‘net realisable value of trading property’ above. 

A change of 1% to average house price inflation over the 10-year period from 1 October 2011 would either increase the valuation by 

£5.6m or reduce the valuation by £5.8m.  

Consideration has been given to the effective interest rate to adopt for the valuation. We have concluded that the effective interest rate as 

at 30 September 2011 should be the same as the rate adopted at 30 September 2010 which is 0.85% lower than the effective interest 

rate when the financial interest was acquired. A 1% change to the discount rate would either increase the carrying value by £7.2m or 

reduce the carrying value by £6.4m. 

Distinction between investment and trading property 

The group considers the intention at the outset when each property is acquired in order to classify the property as either an investment 

or a trading property. Where the intention is to either trade the property or where the property is held for immediate sale upon receiving 

vacant possession within the ordinary course of business, the property is classified as trading property.  

Where the intention is to hold the property for its long-term rental yield and/or capital appreciation, the property is classified as an 

investment property. 

Income taxes 

There are some transactions and calculations that involve a degree of estimation and judgement and whose tax treatment can not be 

determined until a formal resolution has been reached with the relevant tax authorities. In such cases, the group’s policy is to be prudent in 

its assessment of the tax benefit that may accrue in line with the contingent asset rules set out in IAS 37. Where the final outcome of these 

matters is different from the amounts initially recorded, such differences will impact on the income and deferred tax amounts reflected in 

subsequent accounting periods. 

During the year, the group concluded its discussions with HM Revenue & Customs in connection with a number of outstanding tax 

matters. Further information is provided in note 14.  

 
 
Grainger plc

84

Notes to the financial statements continued 

3 Analysis of profit/(loss) before tax 
The results for the years ended 30 September 2010 and 2011 respectively have been significantly affected by valuation movements and 
non-recurring items, although the impact of these items in 2010 was greater than it has been in 2011. The table below provides further 
analysis of the consolidated income statement showing the results of trading activities separately from these other items.  

2011 

2010 

Trading  
£m 

Valuation 
£m

Non-
recurring 
£m

Total 
£m

Trading 
£m

Valuation  
£m 

–

296.2

244.5

Group revenue 

Net rental income 

Profit on disposal of trading property 

Administrative expenses 

Other income and expenses 

Net gain on acquisition of subsidiary 

Goodwill impairment 

Profit on disposal of investment property 

Profit on redemption of equity units 
in associate 

Finance income from financial interest 
in property assets 

(Write down)/write back of inventories 
to net realisable value 

Provision for impairment of loans receivable 
net of write-backs 

Operating profit before net valuation 
deficits on investment property 

Net valuation deficits on investment property

Operating profit after net valuation 
deficits on investment property 

296.2 

49.9 

72.3 

(13.0) 

8.0 

– 

– 

1.1 

– 

7.9 

– 

– 

126.2 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

16.1

(2.2)

–

–

–

(1.8)

(4.2)

7.9

(2.0)

Fair value movements on derivatives 

– 

(28.0)

Finance costs 

Finance income 

Share of profit of associates after tax 

Share of profit of joint ventures after tax 

Profit/(loss) before tax 

(79.0) 

2.7 

0.2 

(1.8) 

48.3 

–

–

4.2

3.9

(0.8)

–

–

(3.8)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

49.1

72.3

(13.0)

4.2

16.1

(2.2)

1.1

–

7.9

(1.8)

(4.2)

(4.6)

129.5

–

(2.0)

–

(3.6)

(28.0)

(82.6)

–

–

–

2.7

4.4

2.1

40.8

52.8

(9.2)

5.9

–

–

0.4

1.0

2.5

–

–

94.2

–

94.2

–

(82.2)

5.0

–

(2.3)

14.7

126.2 

5.9

(4.6)

127.5

Non-
recurring 
£m 

– 

– 

– 

Total 
£m

244.5

40.8

52.8

(2.0) 

(11.2)

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(2.0) 

– 

(2.0) 

– 

0.9 

– 

– 

– 

5.9

2.8

(1.5)

0.4

1.0

2.5

2.9

(10.7)

85.7

(0.8)

84.9

(39.6)

(81.3)

5.0

5.6

4.6

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

2.8 

(1.5) 

– 

– 

– 

2.9 

(10.7) 

(6.5) 

(0.8) 

(7.3) 

(39.6) 

– 

– 

5.6 

6.9 

(14.0)

(8.2)

26.1

(34.4) 

(1.1) 

(20.8)

The non-recurring charge of £3.8m under ‘other income and expenses’ relates primarily to costs incurred on acquisitions made in the year 
and other transaction costs. 

The non-recurring charge of £3.6m under ‘Finance costs’ relates to the refinancing carried out in the year. 

 
3 Analysis of profit/(loss) before tax 

The results for the years ended 30 September 2010 and 2011 respectively have been significantly affected by valuation movements and 

non-recurring items, although the impact of these items in 2010 was greater than it has been in 2011. The table below provides further 

analysis of the consolidated income statement showing the results of trading activities separately from these other items.  

4 Segmental information 
IFRS 8, ‘Operating Segments’ (‘IFRS 8’) requires operating segments to be identified based upon the group’s internal reporting to the chief 
operating decision maker (‘CODM’) so that the CODM can make decisions about resources to be allocated to segments and to assess their 
performance. The group’s CODM is the chief executive officer. 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

85

The group has identified five segments and is treating all of these as reportable segments. The segments are: UK residential; retirement 
solutions; fund management and residential investments; UK and European development and German residential. The group has a 
segment director responsible for the performance of each of these five segments and the group reports key financial information to the 
CODM on the basis of these five segments. Each of these five segments operate within a different part of the overall residential market. 

The title ‘All other segments’ has been included in the tables below to reconcile the segments to the figures reviewed by the CODM. 
Inter-segment sales, services and property management are charged at prevailing market prices with reference to external contracts 
in place.  

The measure of profit or loss used by the CODM is the trading profit or loss before valuation gains or deficits on investment property and 
excluding all revaluation and non-recurring items as set out in note 3. The CODM reviews by segment two key balance sheet measures of 
net asset value. These are gross net asset value (NAV) and triple net asset value (NNNAV). 

The adoption of IFRS 8 in the prior year resulted in several changes to the group’s segmental information. Major changes were to combine 
UK and European development into a single segment, to change the basis of the segment operating profit/(loss) and to show NAV and 
NNNAV by segment in addition to statutory net assets by segment. In the current year we have included segmental information relating to 
the previously disclosed Property Services segment within UK residential and fund management and residential investments on the 
grounds of materiality as outlined within IFRS 8.  

Further information regarding the products and services from which reportable segments derive their revenues is set out on pages 4 to 22 
of the Annual report. 

Notes to the financial statements continued 

2011 

2010 

Trading  

Valuation 

recurring 

Trading 

Valuation  

recurring 

£m 

£m

£m

£m 

Non-

£m 

296.2

244.5

Profit on disposal of investment property 

1.1 

Group revenue 

Net rental income 

Profit on disposal of trading property 

Administrative expenses 

Other income and expenses 

Net gain on acquisition of subsidiary 

Goodwill impairment 

Profit on redemption of equity units 

in associate 

Finance income from financial interest 

in property assets 

(Write down)/write back of inventories 

to net realisable value 

Provision for impairment of loans receivable 

net of write-backs 

Operating profit before net valuation 

Net valuation deficits on investment property

Operating profit after net valuation 

Finance costs 

Finance income 

Share of profit of associates after tax 

Share of profit of joint ventures after tax 

296.2 

49.9 

72.3 

(13.0) 

8.0 

7.9 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(79.0) 

2.7 

0.2 

(1.8) 

48.3 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

16.1

(2.2)

(1.8)

(4.2)

7.9

(2.0)

5.9

–

–

4.2

3.9

Non-

£m

(0.8)

(3.8)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(3.6)

Total 

£m

49.1

72.3

(13.0)

4.2

16.1

(2.2)

1.1

–

7.9

(1.8)

(4.2)

(2.0)

(28.0)

(82.6)

2.7

4.4

2.1

(2.0) 

(11.2)

Total 

£m

244.5

40.8

52.8

5.9

2.8

(1.5)

0.4

1.0

2.5

2.9

(10.7)

85.7

(0.8)

84.9

(39.6)

(81.3)

5.0

5.6

4.6

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(2.0) 

– 

(2.0) 

0.9 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

2.8 

(1.5) 

2.9 

(10.7) 

(6.5) 

(0.8) 

(7.3) 

(39.6) 

– 

– 

5.6 

6.9 

40.8

52.8

(9.2)

5.9

–

–

0.4

1.0

2.5

–

–

–

–

(82.2)

5.0

–

(2.3)

14.7

deficits on investment property 

126.2 

(4.6)

129.5

94.2

deficits on investment property 

126.2 

(4.6)

127.5

94.2

Fair value movements on derivatives 

– 

(28.0)

Profit/(loss) before tax 

(14.0)

(8.2)

26.1

(34.4) 

(1.1) 

(20.8)

The non-recurring charge of £3.8m under ‘other income and expenses’ relates primarily to costs incurred on acquisitions made in the year 

and other transaction costs. 

The non-recurring charge of £3.6m under ‘Finance costs’ relates to the refinancing carried out in the year. 

 
 
Grainger plc

86

Notes to the financial statements continued 

4 Segmental information continued 
Information relating to the group’s operating segments is set out in the tables below.  

UK 
residential 

Retirement 
solutions

Fund 
management/
residential 
investments

 UK and 
European 
development

German 
residential  

All other 
segments 

2011 Income statement 

(£m) 

Group revenue 

Segment revenue-external 

Segment revenue-internal 

Net rental income 

Profit on disposal of trading property 

Administrative expenses 

Other income and expenses 

Profit/(loss) on disposal of investment property 

Finance income from financial interest in 
property assets 

Internal recharges 

Operating profit before net valuation 
deficits on investment property 

Net trading interest payable 

Share of trading loss of joint ventures and 
associates after tax 

Trading profit before tax, valuation and 
non-recurring items 

200.6 

25.9

– 

29.0 

50.9 

– 

0.5 

0.3 

– 

3.5 

84.2 

(2.9) 

–

3.8

7.4

–

0.5

(0.1)

7.9

(0.8)

18.7

(3.2)

6.3

7.4

–

–

–

6.3

–

–

(2.7)

3.6

1.2

22.8

–

–

14.0

–

0.4

–

–

–

14.4

0.1

– 

(0.1)

(1.0)

(0.5)

Write down of inventories to net realisable value 

(0.8) 

–

Net valuation gains/(deficits) on 
investment property 

air value 
F

movements on derivatives 

Provision for impairment of loans receivable net 
of write-backs  

Net gain on acquisition of subsidiary 

Goodwill impairment 

Share of valuation gains in joint ventures and 
associates after tax 

Other net non-recurring items 

Profit before tax 

4.7 

(5.1)

– 

– 

16.1 

(0.9) 

– 

(2.3) 

–

–

–

–

–

(0.1)

–

–

(0.8)

3.3

–

–

8.1

(0.2)

Total

296.2

7.4

49.9

72.3

– 

– 

– 

– 

(13.0) 

(13.0)

– 

– 

– 

– 

8.0

1.1

7.9

–

40.6 

– 

17.1 

– 

– 

0.3 

0.9 

– 

– 

18.3 

(13.0) 

126.2

(13.9) 

(57.6) 

(76.3)

– 

– 

(1.6) 

(1.6) 

– 

– 

(1.3) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(25.6) 

(2.3) 

– 

– 

– 

(1.0)

–

–

(5.2)

–

–

–

(0.2)

(0.8) 

(4.6) 

(1.6)

48.3

(1.8)

(2.0)

(28.0)

(4.2)

16.1

(2.2)

8.1

(8.2)

26.1

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

87

Notes to the financial statements continued 

4 Segmental information continued 

Information relating to the group’s operating segments is set out in the tables below.  

2011 Income statement 

(£m) 

Group revenue 

Segment revenue-external 

Segment revenue-internal 

Net rental income 

Profit on disposal of trading property 

Administrative expenses 

Other income and expenses 

Profit/(loss) on disposal of investment property 

Finance income from financial interest in 

property assets 

Internal recharges 

Operating profit before net valuation 

deficits on investment property 

Net trading interest payable 

Share of trading loss of joint ventures and 

associates after tax 

Trading profit before tax, valuation and 

non-recurring items 

Net valuation gains/(deficits) on 

investment property 

F

air value 

movements on derivatives 

Provision for impairment of loans receivable net 

of write-backs  

Net gain on acquisition of subsidiary 

Goodwill impairment 

Share of valuation gains in joint ventures and 

associates after tax 

Other net non-recurring items 

Profit before tax 

UK 

Retirement 

residential 

German 

All other 

residential 

solutions

investments

development

residential  

segments 

Total

Fund 

management/

 UK and 

European 

200.6 

25.9

22.8

40.6 

– 

29.0 

50.9 

– 

0.5 

0.3 

– 

3.5 

84.2 

(2.9) 

– 

– 

16.1 

(0.9) 

– 

(2.3) 

–

3.8

7.4

–

0.5

(0.1)

7.9

(0.8)

18.7

(3.2)

–

–

–

–

–

–

6.3

7.4

6.3

(2.7)

3.6

1.2

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(0.8)

3.3

8.1

(0.2)

14.0

0.4

17.1 

0.3 

0.9 

(13.0) 

(13.0)

14.4

0.1

18.3 

(13.0) 

126.2

(13.9) 

(57.6) 

(76.3)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(1.0)

(5.2)

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

296.2

7.4

49.9

72.3

8.0

1.1

7.9

–

(1.6)

48.3

(1.8)

(2.0)

(28.0)

(4.2)

16.1

(2.2)

8.1

(8.2)

26.1

(25.6) 

(2.3) 

(1.6) 

(1.6) 

(1.3) 

(0.1)

(0.2)

(0.8) 

(4.6) 

– 

(0.1)

(1.0)

(0.5)

Write down of inventories to net realisable value 

(0.8) 

4.7 

(5.1)

2010 Income Statement 

(£m) 

Group revenue 

Segment revenue-external 

Segment revenue-internal 

Net rental income 

Profit on disposal of trading property 

Administrative expenses 

Other income and expenses 

Profit on disposal of investment property 

Profit on redemption of equity units in associate 

Finance income from financial interest in 
property assets 

Internal recharges 

Operating profit before net valuation 
deficits on investment property 

Net trading interest payable 

Share of trading loss of joint ventures and 
associates after tax 

Trading profit before tax, valuation and 
non-recurring items 

Reversal of write down of inventories to net 
realisable value 

Net valuation gains/(deficits) on 
investment property 

F
air value 

movements on derivatives 

Provision for impairment of loans receivable net 
of write-backs  

Net gain on acquisition of subsidiary 

Goodwill impairment 

Share of valuation gains in joint ventures and 
associates after tax 

Other net non-recurring items 

Loss before tax 

UK 
residential 

Retirement 
solutions

Fund 
management/ 
residential 
investments

 UK and 
European 
development

German 
residential  

All other 
segments 

155.2 

25.6

– 

19.2 

45.0 

– 

0.5 

0.2 

– 

– 

4.5 

69.4 

– 

– 

2.3 

5.2 

– 

– 

– 

(0.1) 

– 

– 

–

4.1

6.7

–

(0.4)

–

–

2.5

(0.7)

12.2

(3.2)

–

–

(3.4)

–

–

2.8

–

–

–

5.5

7.1

–

–

–

5.5

–

1.0

–

(3.8)

2.7

2.4

19.7

–

0.8

1.1

–

0.1

–

–

–

–

38.5 

– 

16.7 

– 

– 

0.2 

0.2 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(9.2) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

Total

244.5

7.1

40.8

52.8

(9.2)

5.9

0.4

1.0

2.5

–

2.0

0.1

17.1 

(13.9) 

(9.2) 

(62.6) 

94.2

(77.2)

(1.7)

(0.6)

–

–

–

–

–

–

12.5

–

0.6

–

–

(4.9)

–

–

–

–

– 

– 

(2.6) 

(1.5) 

– 

– 

(1.4) 

– 

– 

– 

(2.3)

14.7

2.9

(0.8)

(39.6)

– 

– 

(38.1) 

(5.8) 

(10.7)

– 

– 

– 

(1.1) 

2.8

(1.5)

12.5

(1.1)

(20.8)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

88

Notes to the financial statements continued 

4 Segmental information continued 
Segmental revenue from external customers is derived as follows: 

£255.6m from UK customers (2010: £206.0m) 

£40.6m from Germany (2010: £38.5m). There are no other material revenue streams from external customers in foreign countries.  

Non-current assets other than financial instruments, deferred tax assets, post-employment benefit assets and rights arising under insurance 
contracts are located as follows: 

£462.9m within the UK (2010: £319.1m) 

£422.0m in Germany (2010: £442.7m) 

The majority of the group’s properties are held as trading stock and are therefore shown in the statutory balance sheet at the lower cost 
and net realisable value. This does not reflect the market value of the assets and, accordingly, our key balance sheet measures of net asset 
value includes trading stock at market value. The two principal net asset value measures reviewed by the CODM are gross net asset value 
(‘NAV’) and triple net asset value (‘NNNAV’). 

NAV is the statutory net assets plus the adjustment required to increase the value of trading stock from its statutory accounts value of 
the lower of cost and net realisable value, to its market value. In addition, the statutory balance sheet amounts for both deferred tax 
on property revaluations and derivative financial instruments net of deferred tax, including those in joint ventures and associates, are 
added back to statutory net assets. Finally, the market value of Grainger plc shares owned by the group are added back to statutory 
net assets. 

NNNAV reverses some of the adjustments made between statutory net assets and NAV. All of the adjustments for the value of derivative 
financial instruments net of deferred tax, including those in joint ventures and associates, are reversed. The adjustment for the deferred tax 
on property revaluations is also reversed. In addition, adjustments are made to net assets to reflect the fair value, net of deferred tax, of the 
group’s fixed rate debt and to deduct from net assets the contingent tax calculated by applying the expected rate of tax to the adjustment 
to increase the value of trading stock from its statutory accounts value of the lower of cost and net realisable value, to its market value.  

These measures are set out below by segment along with a reconciliation to the summarised statutory balance sheet.  

2011 Segment net assets 

(£m) 

Total segment net 
assets (statutory) 

Total segment net assets (NAV) 

Total segment net assets (NNNAV) 

UK 
residential 

Retirement 
solutions

Fund 
management/ 
residential 
investments

 UK and 
European 
development

German 
residential  

All other 
segments 

886.9 

1,227.3 

1,112.2 

385.0

437.7

414.3

37.6

41.0

37.6

84.1

72.3

75.3

132.8 

(1,139.0) 

151.4 

(1,029.7) 

132.7 

(1,133.9) 

Total

387.4

900.0

638.2

 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

4 Segmental information continued 

Segmental revenue from external customers is derived as follows: 

£255.6m from UK customers (2010: £206.0m) 

contracts are located as follows: 

£462.9m within the UK (2010: £319.1m) 

£422.0m in Germany (2010: £442.7m) 

£40.6m from Germany (2010: £38.5m). There are no other material revenue streams from external customers in foreign countries.  

Non-current assets other than financial instruments, deferred tax assets, post-employment benefit assets and rights arising under insurance 

The majority of the group’s properties are held as trading stock and are therefore shown in the statutory balance sheet at the lower cost 

and net realisable value. This does not reflect the market value of the assets and, accordingly, our key balance sheet measures of net asset 

value includes trading stock at market value. The two principal net asset value measures reviewed by the CODM are gross net asset value 

(‘NAV’) and triple net asset value (‘NNNAV’). 

NAV is the statutory net assets plus the adjustment required to increase the value of trading stock from its statutory accounts value of 

the lower of cost and net realisable value, to its market value. In addition, the statutory balance sheet amounts for both deferred tax 

on property revaluations and derivative financial instruments net of deferred tax, including those in joint ventures and associates, are 

added back to statutory net assets. Finally, the market value of Grainger plc shares owned by the group are added back to statutory 

net assets. 

NNNAV reverses some of the adjustments made between statutory net assets and NAV. All of the adjustments for the value of derivative 

financial instruments net of deferred tax, including those in joint ventures and associates, are reversed. The adjustment for the deferred tax 

on property revaluations is also reversed. In addition, adjustments are made to net assets to reflect the fair value, net of deferred tax, of the 

group’s fixed rate debt and to deduct from net assets the contingent tax calculated by applying the expected rate of tax to the adjustment 

to increase the value of trading stock from its statutory accounts value of the lower of cost and net realisable value, to its market value.  

These measures are set out below by segment along with a reconciliation to the summarised statutory balance sheet.  

2011 Segment net assets 

(£m) 

Total segment net 

assets (statutory) 

Total segment net assets (NAV) 

Total segment net assets (NNNAV) 

UK 

Retirement 

residential 

German 

All other 

residential 

solutions

investments

development

residential  

segments 

Total

Fund 

management/ 

 UK and 

European 

886.9 

1,227.3 

1,112.2 

385.0

437.7

414.3

37.6

41.0

37.6

84.1

72.3

75.3

132.8 

(1,139.0) 

151.4 

(1,029.7) 

132.7 

(1,133.9) 

387.4

900.0

638.2

2011 Reconciliation of NAV measures 

(£m) 

Investment property 

CHARM 

Trading stock 

JV/Associates 

Cash 

Deferred tax 

Derivatives 

Other assets 

Total assets 

External debt 

Derivatives 

Deferred tax 

Other liabilities 

Total liabilities 

Net assets 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

89

Statutory  
balance  
sheet 

Adjustments to 
market value, 
deferred tax 
and derivatives

Deferred and  
contingent tax 

Derivatives 

Gross NAV 
balance 
sheet

819.9

102.3

–

–

344.0

1,449.1

0.4

–

(39.7)

(0.2)

6.4

310.9

58.9

90.9

3.0

–

31.2

2,555.3

–

(1,544.7)

154.5

47.2

–

201.7

512.6

–

(0.5)

(110.1)

(1,655.3)

900.0

Triple NAV 
balance 
sheet

819.9

102.3

1,449.1

54.3

90.9

46.2

0.2

31.2

2,594.1

– 

– 

– 

(4.6) 

– 

43.2 

0.2 

– 

38.8 

– 

(1,544.7)

(168.4) 

– 

– 

(168.4) 

(129.6) 

(168.4)

(132.7)

(110.1)

(1,955.9)

638.2

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(132.2) 

– 

(132.2) 

(132.2) 

819.9 

102.3 

1,105.1 

58.5 

90.9 

42.7 

0.2 

24.8 

2,244.4 

(1,544.7) 

(154.5) 

(47.7) 

(110.1) 

(1,857.0) 

387.4 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

90

Notes to the financial statements continued 

4 Segmental information continued 
In order to provide further analysis the following table sets out NNNAV assets and liabilities by segment.  

Segment assets and liabilities for NNNAV 

UK residential 
portfolio 

Retirement 
solutions

Fund 
management/ 
residential 
investments

 UK and 
European 
development

German 
residential  

All other 
segments 

30 September 2011 
(£m) 

NNNAV assets 

Investment property 

Investment in associates 

Investment in joint ventures 

Financial interest in property assets 

Goodwill 

320.9 

– 

– 

– 

5.3 

77.6

–

19.3

102.3

–

Inventories – trading property 

1,081.1 

294.6

Trade and other receivables 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Property, plant and equipment 

Deferred tax asset 

Derivative financial instruments 

Value of own shares held 

1.4 

19.3 

– 

2.1 

– 

– 

1.9

1.1

–

2.9

–

–

–

34.6

–

–

–

–

2.8

0.4

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

72.5

5.9

0.2

–

1.5

–

–

421.4 

– 

0.4 

– 

– 

0.9 

2.6 

25.8 

0.2 

0.1 

0.1 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

3.7 

44.1 

1.0 

39.6 

0.1 

6.4 

Total

819.9

34.6

19.7

102.3

5.3

1,449.1

18.3

90.9

1.2

46.2

0.2

6.4

Total segment NNNAV assets 

1,430.1 

499.7

37.8

80.1

451.5 

94.9 

2,594.1

NNNAV liabilities 

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 

Trade and other payables 

Retirement benefits 

Current tax liabilities 

Provisions for other liabilities and charges 

Deferred and contingent tax liabilities 

Derivative financial instruments 

Total segment NNNAV liabilities 

193.0 

8.8 

– 

– 

– 

116.1 

– 

317.9 

32.4

27.8

–

–

–

13.4

11.8

85.4

Net NNNAV assets 

1,112.2 

414.3

–

0.2

–

–

–

–

–

0.2

37.6

–

7.8

–

–

–

(3.0)

–

4.8

287.4 

1,031.9 

1,544.7

8.3 

– 

– 

– 

5.9 

17.2 

27.5 

4.5 

24.6 

0.6 

0.3 

139.4 

80.4

4.5

24.6

0.6

132.7

168.4

318.8 

1,228.8 

1,955.9

75.3

132.7 

(1,133.9) 

638.2

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Inventories – trading property 

1,081.1 

294.6

Notes to the financial statements continued 

4 Segmental information continued 

In order to provide further analysis the following table sets out NNNAV assets and liabilities by segment.  

Segment assets and liabilities for NNNAV 

UK residential 

Retirement 

residential 

German 

All other 

portfolio 

solutions

investments

development

residential  

segments 

Total

Fund 

management/ 

 UK and 

European 

30 September 2011 

(£m) 

NNNAV assets 

Investment property 

Investment in associates 

Investment in joint ventures 

Financial interest in property assets 

Goodwill 

Trade and other receivables 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Property, plant and equipment 

Deferred tax asset 

Derivative financial instruments 

Value of own shares held 

NNNAV liabilities 

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 

Trade and other payables 

Retirement benefits 

Current tax liabilities 

Provisions for other liabilities and charges 

Deferred and contingent tax liabilities 

Derivative financial instruments 

Total segment NNNAV liabilities 

320.9 

77.6

– 

– 

– 

5.3 

1.4 

19.3 

2.1 

– 

– 

– 

193.0 

8.8 

– 

– 

– 

– 

116.1 

317.9 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

19.3

102.3

1.9

1.1

2.9

32.4

27.8

13.4

11.8

85.4

34.6

2.8

0.4

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

421.4 

0.4 

– 

– 

– 

0.9 

2.6 

25.8 

0.2 

0.1 

0.1 

– 

– 

– 

– 

5.9 

17.2 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

3.7 

44.1 

1.0 

39.6 

0.1 

6.4 

819.9

34.6

19.7

102.3

5.3

1,449.1

18.3

90.9

1.2

46.2

0.2

6.4

27.5 

4.5 

24.6 

0.6 

0.3 

139.4 

80.4

4.5

24.6

0.6

132.7

168.4

72.5

5.9

0.2

1.5

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(3.0)

4.8

75.3

0.2

7.8

8.3 

287.4 

1,031.9 

1,544.7

Net NNNAV assets 

1,112.2 

414.3

0.2

37.6

318.8 

1,228.8 

1,955.9

132.7 

(1,133.9) 

638.2

Total segment NNNAV assets 

1,430.1 

499.7

37.8

80.1

451.5 

94.9 

2,594.1

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

91

2010 Segment net assets 

(£m) 

Total segment net 
assets (statutory) 

Total segment net assets (NAV) 

Total segment net assets (NNNAV)

2010 Reconciliation of NAV measures 

(£m) 

Investment property 

CHARM 

Trading stock 

JV/Associates 

Cash 

Deferred tax 

Assets held for sale 

Other assets 

Total assets 

External debt 

Derivatives 

Deferred Tax 

Liabilities held for sale 

Other liabilities  

Total liabilities 

Net assets 

UK 
residential 

Retirement 
solutions

Fund 
management/ 
residential 
investments

 UK and 
European 
development

German 
residential  

All other 
segments 

781.8 

1,115.5 

993.3 

403.4

459.6

433.3

108.6

114.5

111.1

88.3

73.5

76.0

131.4 

(1,168.2) 

152.5 

(1,083.8) 

131.2 

(1,163.3) 

Statutory  
balance  
sheet 

Adjustments to 
market value, 
deferred tax and 
derivatives

634.7 

103.9 

989.9 

119.6 

91.5 

38.4 

70.7 

24.8 

2,073.5 

(1,417.3) 

(128.3) 

(52.6) 

(34.1) 

(95.9) 

(1,728.2) 

345.3 

–

–

331.5

2.8

–

(36.5)

–

6.6

304.4

–

128.3

53.8

–

–

182.1

486.5

Gross NAV 
balance 
sheet

634.7

103.9

1,321.4

122.4

91.5

1.9

70.7

31.4

2,377.9

(1,417.3)

–

1.2

(34.1)

(95.9)

(1,546.1)

831.8

Deferred and  
contingent tax 

Derivatives 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(142.1) 

– 

– 

(142.1) 

(142.1) 

– 

– 

– 

(7.0) 

– 

40.0 

– 

– 

33.0 

– 

(141.1) 

– 

– 

– 

(141.1) 

(108.1) 

Total

345.3

831.8

581.6

Triple NAV 
balance 
sheet

634.7

103.9

1,321.4

115.4

91.5

41.9

70.7

31.4

2,410.9

(1,417.3)

(141.1)

(140.9)

(34.1)

(95.9)

(1,829.3)

581.6

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

92

Notes to the financial statements continued 

4 Segmental information continued 
In order to provide further analysis the following table sets out NNNAV assets and liabilities by segment.  

Segment assets and liabilities for NNNAV 

30 September 2010 
(£m) 

NNNAV assets 

Investment property 

Investment in associates 

Investment in joint ventures 

Financial interest in property assets 

Goodwill 

Inventories – trading property 

Trade and other receivables 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Property, plant and equipment 

Deferred Tax asset 

Assets held for sale 

Value of own shares held 

UK 
residential 
portfolio 

Retirement 
solutions

Fund 
management/ 
residential 
investments

 UK and 
European 
development

German 
residential  

All other 
segments 

110.0 

84.0

– 

– 

– 

6.2 

–

–

103.9

–

958.6 

289.5

3.3 

(0.8) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

1.9

0.8

–

2.7

70.7

–

–

28.7

79.9

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

5.2

–

–

72.1

6.0

0.3

–

–

–

–

440.7 

– 

1.7 

– 

– 

1.2 

2.5 

13.4 

0.3 

0.1 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

3.5 

77.8 

1.0 

39.1 

– 

6.6 

Total

634.7

28.7

86.8

103.9

6.2

1,321.4

17.2

91.5

1.3

41.9

70.7

6.6

Total segment NNAV assets 

1,077.3 

553.5

108.6

83.6

459.9 

128.0 

2,410.9

NNNAV liabilities 

Interest-bearing loans 
and borrowings 

Trade and other payables 

Retirement benefits 

Current tax liabilities 

Provisions for other liabilities 
and charges 

Deferred and contingent 
tax liabilities 

Derivative financial instruments 

Liabilities held for sale 

Total segment NNNAV liabilities

Net NNNAV assets 

– 

5.8 

– 

– 

– 

78.2 

– 

– 

84.0 

993.3 

34.6

26.1

–

–

–

15.3

10.1

34.1

120.2

433.3

–

–

–

–

–

–

10.1

–

–

–

(2.5)

(2.5)

–

–

(2.5)

111.1

–

–

7.6

76.0

297.3 

1,085.4 

1,417.3

6.7 

– 

– 

– 

2.6 

22.1 

– 

12.6 

6.0 

27.8 

61.3

6.0

27.8

0.8 

0.8

49.8 

108.9 

– 

140.9

141.1

34.1

328.7 

1,291.3 

1,829.3

131.2 

(1,163.3) 

581.6

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

4 Segmental information continued 

In order to provide further analysis the following table sets out NNNAV assets and liabilities by segment.  

Segment assets and liabilities for NNNAV 

UK 

residential 

Retirement 

Fund 

management/ 

residential 

 UK and 

European 

portfolio 

solutions

investments

development

residential  

German 

All other 

segments 

5 Group revenue 

Gross rental income (see note 6) 

Service charge income on a principal basis (see note 6) 

Proceeds from sale of trading property (see note 7) 

Management fee and other income (see note 10) 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

93

2011 
£m 

86.3 

10.1 

191.8 

8.0 

296.2 

2010
£m

75.6

7.2

155.1

6.6

244.5

Proceeds from sale of trading property are before deducting fees on sale of trading property of £4.5m (2010: £4.1m) included within  
note 7.  

6 Net rental income 

Gross rental income 

Service charge income on a principal basis 

Property repair and maintenance costs 

Service charge expense on a principal basis 

Property operating expenses (see note 9) 

2011 
£m 

86.3 

10.1 

(22.4) 

(11.6) 

(13.3) 

49.1 

2010
£m

75.6

7.2

(19.9)

(10.0)

(12.1)

40.8

There are no contingent rents recognised within net rental income in 2011 and 2010 relating to properties where the group acts as a 
lessor of assets under operating leases.  

5.8 

10.1

6.7 

7 Profit on disposal of trading property 

Proceeds from sale of trading property 

Carrying value of trading property sold 

Other sales costs (see note 9) 

8 Profit on disposal of investment property 

Proceeds from sale of investment property 

Carrying value of investment property sold 

2011 
£m 

187.3 

(108.2) 

(6.8) 

72.3 

2011 
£m 

24.6 

(23.5) 

1.1 

2010
£m

151.0

(90.8)

(7.4)

52.8

2010
£m

9.9

(9.5)

0.4

30 September 2010 

(£m) 

NNNAV assets 

Investment property 

Investment in associates 

Investment in joint ventures 

Financial interest in property assets 

Goodwill 

Inventories – trading property 

Trade and other receivables 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Property, plant and equipment 

Deferred Tax asset 

Assets held for sale 

Value of own shares held 

NNNAV liabilities 

Interest-bearing loans 

and borrowings 

Trade and other payables 

Retirement benefits 

Current tax liabilities 

Provisions for other liabilities 

and charges 

Deferred and contingent 

tax liabilities 

Derivative financial instruments 

Liabilities held for sale 

Total segment NNNAV liabilities

Net NNNAV assets 

Total

634.7

28.7

86.8

103.9

6.2

1,321.4

17.2

91.5

1.3

41.9

70.7

6.6

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

3.5 

77.8 

1.0 

39.1 

– 

6.6 

440.7 

1.7 

– 

– 

– 

1.2 

2.5 

13.4 

0.3 

0.1 

– 

– 

297.3 

1,085.4 

1,417.3

12.6 

6.0 

27.8 

61.3

6.0

27.8

0.8 

0.8

– 

– 

– 

2.6 

22.1 

– 

49.8 

108.9 

– 

140.9

141.1

34.1

5.2

72.1

6.0

0.3

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

110.0 

84.0

28.7

79.9

958.6 

289.5

– 

– 

– 

6.2 

3.3 

(0.8) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

103.9

1.9

0.8

–

2.7

70.7

–

34.6

26.1

–

–

–

15.3

10.1

34.1

120.2

433.3

78.2 

(2.5)

(2.5)

84.0 

993.3 

(2.5)

111.1

7.6

76.0

328.7 

1,291.3 

1,829.3

131.2 

(1,163.3) 

581.6

Total segment NNAV assets 

1,077.3 

553.5

108.6

83.6

459.9 

128.0 

2,410.9

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

94

Notes to the financial statements continued 

9 Administrative expenses 
Many of the group’s expenses relate directly to either property management activities or to staff involved directly with the sale 
and acquisition of property. Accordingly, total group expenses shown above have been allocated as follows: 

Total group expenses 

Property operating expenses (see note 6) 

Costs directly attributable to the disposal of trading property (see note 7) 

Administrative expenses 

10 Other income and expenses 

Property and asset management fee income 

Crop store and agricultural income 

Other sundry income 

Cost on acquisition of subsidiary undertakings 

Other sundry expenses 

11 Employees 

Wages and salaries 

Termination benefits 

Social security costs 

Other pension costs – defined contribution scheme (see note 28) 

Share-based payments (see note 32) 

2011 
£m 

33.1 

2011 
£m 

13.3 

6.8 

13.0 

33.1 

2011 
£m 

6.9 

– 

1.1 

(2.4) 

(1.4) 

4.2 

2011 
£m 

13.9 

0.2 

1.3 

0.8 

2.0 

18.2 

2010
£m

30.7

2010
£m

12.1

7.4

11.2

30.7

2010
£m

5.5

0.3

0.8

(0.7)

–

5.9

2010
£m

11.7

2.1

1.2

0.7

1.3

17.0

Interest on net pension scheme liabilities amounted to £0.3m in 2011 (2010: £0.3m) and is included within finance costs (see note 13).  

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

Total group expenses 

Property operating expenses (see note 6) 

Costs directly attributable to the disposal of trading property (see note 7) 

Administrative expenses 

10 Other income and expenses 

Property and asset management fee income 

Crop store and agricultural income 

Other sundry income 

Cost on acquisition of subsidiary undertakings 

Other sundry expenses 

11 Employees 

Wages and salaries 

Termination benefits 

Social security costs 

Other pension costs – defined contribution scheme (see note 28) 

Share-based payments (see note 32) 

2011 

£m 

33.1 

2011 

£m 

13.3 

6.8 

13.0 

33.1 

2011 

£m 

6.9 

– 

1.1 

(2.4) 

(1.4) 

4.2 

2011 

£m 

13.9 

0.2 

1.3 

0.8 

2.0 

18.2 

2010

£m

30.7

2010

£m

12.1

7.4

11.2

30.7

2010

£m

5.5

0.3

0.8

(0.7)

–

5.9

2010

£m

11.7

2.1

1.2

0.7

1.3

17.0

Interest on net pension scheme liabilities amounted to £0.3m in 2011 (2010: £0.3m) and is included within finance costs (see note 13).  

9 Administrative expenses 

Many of the group’s expenses relate directly to either property management activities or to staff involved directly with the sale 

and acquisition of property. Accordingly, total group expenses shown above have been allocated as follows: 

The average monthly number of group employees during the year (including executive directors) was: 

UK tenanted residential 

UK development 

European tenanted residential 

2011 
Number 

2010
Number

258 

6 

10 

274 

238

4

12

254

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

95

Details of directors’ remuneration, including pension costs, share options and interests in the LTIS are provided in the audited section of the 
remuneration committee report on pages 54 to 56. 

Key management compensation 

Salaries and short-term employee benefits 

Termination benefits 

Post-employment benefits 

Share-based payments 

2011 
£m 

4.0 

0.2 

0.3 

0.9 

5.4 

2010
£m

3.0

–

0.2

0.4

3.6

Key management figures shown include both the executive and non-executive directors as well as senior managers who are members of 
the operations board.  

12 Profit/(loss) before tax 

Profit/(loss) before tax is stated after charging/(crediting): 

  Depreciation on fixtures, fittings and equipment (see note 18) 

Impairment of goodwill (see note 22) 

  Net gain on acquisition of subsidiary (see note 41) 

  Bad debt expense 

  Foreign exchange (gains)/losses 

  Operating lease payments 

  Auditors’ remuneration – Audit fees 

  Auditors’ remuneration – Other fees 

2011 
£m 

0.6 

2.2 

(16.1) 

0.7 

(0.8) 

1.6 

0.1 

0.5 

2010
£m

0.7

1.5

(2.8)

1.4

1.0

1.7

0.1

0.8

Operating lease payments represent the lease payments made in the year relating to renting of office space used by the group, car leases 
under contract hire arrangements and operating lease payments relating to office equipment such as photocopiers. Leases relating 
to office space used by the group have initial terms of varying lengths, between two to eleven years.  

Rent reviews generally take place every five years. Contract hire car leases generally have a three-year term. There are no other significant 
operating lease arrangements requiring disclosure under IAS 17. The group’s operating lease commitments are shown in note 38. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

96

Notes to the financial statements continued 

12 Profit/(loss) before tax continued 
The remuneration paid to PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, the group’s principal auditors, is disclosed below: 

Auditors’ remuneration 

Audit fees 

Fees payable to the company’s auditors for the audit of the company’s annual accounts 

Fees payable to the company’s auditors and their associates for other services to the group: 

The audit of the company’s subsidiaries pursuant to legislation 

Total Audit fees 

Other fees 

  Tax services 

  Other services 

Total Other fees 

Total fees 

2011 
£’000 

2010
£’000

146 

122 

268 

90 

227 

317 

585 

146

131

277

205

382

587

864

During the year, £90,000 was paid by the group to PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP for taxation services during the year. The audit committee 
give careful consideration before appointing the auditors to provide taxation advice and regularly use other providers to ensure that 
independence and full value for money are achieved. A further £227,000 was paid for other services, the main element of which was 
£185,000 relating to financial due diligence work on acquisitions made by the group during the year. These fees were one-off in nature.  

 
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

12 Profit/(loss) before tax continued 

The remuneration paid to PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, the group’s principal auditors, is disclosed below: 

13 Finance costs and income 

Fees payable to the company’s auditors for the audit of the company’s annual accounts 

Fees payable to the company’s auditors and their associates for other services to the group: 

The audit of the company’s subsidiaries pursuant to legislation 

Auditors’ remuneration 

Audit fees 

Total Audit fees 

Other fees 

  Tax services 

  Other services 

Total Other fees 

Total fees 

2011 

£’000 

2010

£’000

146 

122 

268 

90 

227 

317 

585 

146

131

277

205

382

587

864

During the year, £90,000 was paid by the group to PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP for taxation services during the year. The audit committee 

give careful consideration before appointing the auditors to provide taxation advice and regularly use other providers to ensure that 

independence and full value for money are achieved. A further £227,000 was paid for other services, the main element of which was 

£185,000 relating to financial due diligence work on acquisitions made by the group during the year. These fees were one-off in nature.  

Finance costs 

Bank loans and mortgages 

Non-bank Financial Institution 

Convertible bond 

Other finance costs  

Foreign exchange (gains)/losses on financing activities 

Loan issue costs – amortisation and write-off 

Interest on net pension scheme liabilities (see note 28) 

Finance income 

Interest receivable from associates and joint ventures (see note 36) 

Bank deposits 

Net finance costs 

14 Taxation 

Current tax 

Corporation tax on profits 

Adjustments relating to prior years 

Deferred tax 

Origination and reversal of temporary differences 

Adjustments relating to prior years 

Income tax credit for the year 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

97

2011 
£m 

71.9 

2.8 

1.7 

2.9 

(0.8) 

3.8 

0.3 

82.6 

1.2 

1.5 

2.7 

79.9 

2011 
£m 

11.9 

(11.3) 

0.6 

(8.4) 

(5.2) 

(13.6) 

(13.0) 

2010
£m

75.0

–

1.7

0.1

1.0

3.2

0.3

81.3

2.4

2.6

5.0

76.3

2010
£m

4.1

(4.2)

(0.1)

(12.3)

2.4

(9.9)

(10.0)

During the year ended 30 September 2011, the group concluded its discussions with HM Revenue & Customs in connection with 
a number of outstanding tax matters. This has resulted in a non-recurring exceptional credit of £10.2m within the prior year tax credits 
of £16.5m. The balance of £6.3m relates to the agreement that capital losses are available to reduce deferred tax on investment property 
revaluations, giving a credit of £2.8m, the settlement of overseas tax positions, giving a credit of £2.6m, and a credit of £0.9m in respect 
of the deficit on the BPT Limited pension scheme. 

The group works in an open and transparent manner and maintains a regular dialogue with HM Revenue & Customs. This approach is 
consistent with the ‘low risk’ rating we have been awarded by HM Revenue & Customs and to which the group is committed.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

98

Notes to the financial statements continued 

14 Taxation continued 
Movements in taxation during the year are set out below: 

2011 Movement in taxation 

Current tax 

Deferred tax 

Trading property uplift to fair value 
on acquisition  

Investment property revaluation  

Accelerated capital allowances 

Short-term temporary differences 

Actuarial deficit on BPT Limited 
pension scheme 

Equity component  
of available-for-sale financial asset 

Fair value movement in cash flow 
hedges and exchange adjustments 

Total tax – 2011 movement 

2010 Movement in taxation 

Current tax 

Deferred tax 

Trading property uplift to fair value 
on acquisition  

Investment property revaluation  

Accelerated capital allowances 

Short-term temporary differences 

Actuarial deficit on BPT Limited 
pension scheme 

Equity component  
of available-for-sale financial asset 

Fair value movement in cash flow 
hedges and exchange adjustments 

Total tax – 2010 movement 

Opening  
balance  
£m 

Payments 
made in 
the year 
£m

Acquired 
in 
the year 
£m

Movements 
recognised 
in income 
£m

Exchange  
adjustments 
£m 

Movements 
recognised  
in other 
comprehensive 
income  
£m 

Closing 
balance 
£m

27.8 

(4.4)

0.7

0.6

(0.1) 

– 

24.6

41.5 

9.2 

0.4 

(21.6) 

(0.5) 

1.5 

(16.3) 

14.2 

42.0 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(4.4)

–

1.2

1.0

–

–

–

(2.3)

(0.1)

0.6

(3.7)

(3.2)

(0.1)

(6.6)

–

–

–

(13.6)

(13.0)

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(0.1) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

37.8

7.2

1.3

(28.2)

0.3 

(0.2)

(0.1) 

1.4

4.3 

4.5 

4.5 

(14.3)

5.0

29.6

Opening  
balance  
£m 

Repayments  
received in  
the year  
£m 

Transfers 
£m

Acquired in 
the year 
£m

Movements 
recognised in 
income 
£m

Exchange  
adjustments 
£m 

Movements 
recognised  
in other 
comprehensive 
income  
£m 

Closing 
balance 
£m

24.4 

3.6 

–

0.1

(0.1)

(0.2) 

– 

27.8

42.0 

9.4 

0.4 

(14.8) 

(0.4) 

0.7 

(16.2) 

21.1 

45.5 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

3.6 

0.3

–

–

(0.3)

–

–

–

–

–

2.4

–

–

–

–

–

–

(3.2)

(0.2)

–

(6.5)

–

–

–

2.4

2.5

(9.9)

(10.0)

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(0.1) 

(0.1) 

(0.3) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

41.5

9.2

0.4

(21.6)

(0.1) 

(0.5)

0.8 

1.5

– 

(16.3)

0.7 

0.7 

14.2

42.0

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
14 Taxation continued 

Movements in taxation during the year are set out below: 

The tax credit for the year of £13.0m (2010: credit of £10.0m) comprises: 

Payments 

Acquired 

Movements 

Opening  

balance  

made in 

the year 

in 

recognised 

Exchange  

comprehensive 

the year 

in income 

adjustments 

income  

UK taxation 

Overseas taxation 

£m 

27.8 

£m

(4.4)

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

99

2011 
£m 

(11.5) 

(1.5) 

(13.0) 

2010
£m

(8.6)

(1.4)

(10.0)

The main rate of Corporation Tax in the UK changed from 28% to 26% with effect from 1 April 2011 and will change to 25% 
from 1 April 2012. Accordingly the group’s profits for this accounting period are taxed at an effective rate of 27% and should be taxed 
at 25.5% in the 2012 period. The change in tax rate has resulted in a £0.8m credit to the income statement in the current year. 

The tax credit for the year is different to the charge for the year derived by applying the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 27% 
(2010: 28%) to the profit/(loss) before tax. The differences are explained below: 

0.3 

(0.2)

Profit/(loss) before tax 

(0.1) 

1.4

Expenses not deductible for tax purposes 

Profit/(loss) before tax at a rate of 27% (2010: 28%) 

(13.6)

(13.0)

(0.1) 

4.3 

4.5 

4.5 

(14.3)

5.0

29.6

Goodwill credit not taxable 

Impact of tax rate change  

Other losses and non-taxable items 

Adjustment in respect of prior periods 

Total income tax credit in the income statement (see above) 

2011 
£m 

26.1 

7.0 

1.8 

(3.8) 

(0.8) 

(0.7) 

(16.5) 

(13.0) 

2010
£m

(20.8)

(5.8)

2.0

(0.4)

(0.9)

(3.0)

(1.9)

(10.0)

As shown in note 29, deferred tax has been taken directly to other comprehensive income in relation to the actuarial gain or loss on the 
BPT Limited pension scheme, the equity component of available-for-sale financial assets and the fair value movement in cash flow hedges 
and exchange adjustments. The tax effect is shown separately within the statement of other comprehensive income on page 63. 

Factors that may affect future tax charges 
In addition to the changes in rates of Corporation Tax disclosed above, a number of changes to the UK Corporation Tax system are 
proposed. Further reductions to the main rate are proposed to reduce the rate by 1% per annum to 23% from 1 April 2014. These further 
changes have not been substantively enacted at the balance sheet date and, therefore, are not included in these financial statements. 

The effect of the changes expected to be enacted would be to increase the deferred tax liability provided at the balance sheet date by 
£0.1m. This £0.1m increase in the deferred tax liability would increase profit by £0.4m and decrease other comprehensive income by 
£0.5m. This increase in the deferred tax liability is due to the reduction in the corporation tax rate from 25% to 23% by 1 April 2014. 

Notes to the financial statements continued 

Total tax – 2011 movement 

(4.4)

2011 Movement in taxation 

Current tax 

Deferred tax 

on acquisition  

Trading property uplift to fair value 

Investment property revaluation  

Accelerated capital allowances 

Short-term temporary differences 

Actuarial deficit on BPT Limited 

pension scheme 

Equity component  

of available-for-sale financial asset 

Fair value movement in cash flow 

hedges and exchange adjustments 

2010 Movement in taxation 

Current tax 

Deferred tax 

on acquisition  

Trading property uplift to fair value 

Investment property revaluation  

Accelerated capital allowances 

Short-term temporary differences 

Actuarial deficit on BPT Limited 

pension scheme 

Equity component  

of available-for-sale financial asset 

Fair value movement in cash flow 

hedges and exchange adjustments 

Movements 

recognised  

in other 

Closing 

balance 

£m

24.6

£m 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

37.8

7.2

1.3

(28.2)

£m

0.7

–

1.2

1.0

–

–

–

(2.3)

(0.1)

0.6

–

–

–

–

–

–

£m

0.6

(3.7)

(3.2)

(0.1)

(6.6)

–

–

–

£m

(0.1)

(3.2)

(0.2)

(6.5)

–

–

–

–

£m 

(0.1) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

£m 

(0.2) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(0.1) 

(0.1) 

(0.3) 

41.5 

9.2 

0.4 

(21.6) 

(0.5) 

1.5 

(16.3) 

14.2 

42.0 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(0.3)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

the year  

Transfers 

the year 

income 

adjustments 

income  

Acquired in 

recognised in 

Exchange  

comprehensive 

Movements 

Repayments  

received in  

Opening  

balance  

£m 

24.4 

£m 

3.6 

£m

–

£m

0.1

Movements 

recognised  

in other 

0.3

2.4

42.0 

9.4 

0.4 

(14.8) 

(0.4) 

0.7 

(16.2) 

21.1 

45.5 

Closing 

balance 

£m

27.8

£m 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

41.5

9.2

0.4

(21.6)

(0.1) 

(0.5)

0.8 

1.5

– 

(16.3)

0.7 

0.7 

14.2

42.0

Total tax – 2010 movement 

3.6 

2.4

2.5

(9.9)

(10.0)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

100

Notes to the financial statements continued 

15 Dividends 
Under IAS 10, final dividends are excluded from the balance sheet either until they are approved by the company in general meeting 
or until they have been appropriately authorised and are no longer at the discretion of the group. Dividends paid in the year are shown 
below: 

Ordinary dividends on equity shares: 

Final dividend for the year ended 30 September 2009 – 1.29p per share 

Interim dividend for the year ended 30 September 2010 – 0.5p per share 

Final dividend for the year ended 30 September 2010 – 1.20p per share 

2011 
£m 

– 

– 

4.9 

4.9 

2010
£m

5.3

2.1

–

7.4

The directors took the decision to return cash to shareholders by way of a share buyback rather than by paying an interim dividend 
for 2011 and a tender offer of 1 for every 238 shares at 149p was announced in May 2011. Pursuant to the tender offer a total of 
1,484,890 ordinary shares were tendered at a price of 149p per share and were purchased by the company in June 2011 for £2.2m. 
This was equivalent to 0.53p per share.  

A final dividend in respect of the year ended 30 September 2011 of 1.30p per share amounting to £5.3m will be proposed 
at the 2012 Annual General Meeting. If approved, this dividend will be paid on 10 February 2012 to shareholders on the register 
at close of business on 9 December 2011.  

16 Earnings/(loss) per share 
Basic 
Basic earnings/(loss) per share is calculated by dividing the profit or loss attributable to the owners of the company by the weighted 
average number of ordinary shares in issue during the year, excluding ordinary shares purchased by the group and held both in trust 
and as treasury shares to meet its obligations under the long-term incentive scheme (‘LTIS’) and deferred bonus plan (‘DBP’). 

Diluted 
Diluted earnings/(loss) per share is calculated by adjusting the weighted average number of shares in issue by the dilutive effect 
of ordinary shares that the company may potentially issue relating to its convertible bond and its share option schemes and contingent 
share awards under the LTIS and DBP, based upon the number of shares that would be issued if 30 September 2011 was the end 
of the contingency period. The profit/(loss) for the year is adjusted to add back the after tax interest cost on the debt component 
of the convertible bond. Where the effect of the above adjustments is antidilutive, they are excluded from the calculation of diluted 
earnings/(loss) per share. 

 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

15 Dividends 

below: 

Under IAS 10, final dividends are excluded from the balance sheet either until they are approved by the company in general meeting 

or until they have been appropriately authorised and are no longer at the discretion of the group. Dividends paid in the year are shown 

Ordinary dividends on equity shares: 

Final dividend for the year ended 30 September 2009 – 1.29p per share 

Interim dividend for the year ended 30 September 2010 – 0.5p per share 

Final dividend for the year ended 30 September 2010 – 1.20p per share 

The directors took the decision to return cash to shareholders by way of a share buyback rather than by paying an interim dividend 

for 2011 and a tender offer of 1 for every 238 shares at 149p was announced in May 2011. Pursuant to the tender offer a total of 

1,484,890 ordinary shares were tendered at a price of 149p per share and were purchased by the company in June 2011 for £2.2m. 

This was equivalent to 0.53p per share.  

A final dividend in respect of the year ended 30 September 2011 of 1.30p per share amounting to £5.3m will be proposed 

at the 2012 Annual General Meeting. If approved, this dividend will be paid on 10 February 2012 to shareholders on the register 

at close of business on 9 December 2011.  

16 Earnings/(loss) per share 

Basic 

Basic earnings/(loss) per share is calculated by dividing the profit or loss attributable to the owners of the company by the weighted 

average number of ordinary shares in issue during the year, excluding ordinary shares purchased by the group and held both in trust 

and as treasury shares to meet its obligations under the long-term incentive scheme (‘LTIS’) and deferred bonus plan (‘DBP’). 

Diluted 

Diluted earnings/(loss) per share is calculated by adjusting the weighted average number of shares in issue by the dilutive effect 

of ordinary shares that the company may potentially issue relating to its convertible bond and its share option schemes and contingent 

share awards under the LTIS and DBP, based upon the number of shares that would be issued if 30 September 2011 was the end 

of the contingency period. The profit/(loss) for the year is adjusted to add back the after tax interest cost on the debt component 

of the convertible bond. Where the effect of the above adjustments is antidilutive, they are excluded from the calculation of diluted 

earnings/(loss) per share. 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

101

30 September 2011 

30 September 2010 

Profit 
for the  
year  
£m 

Weighted 
average 
number 
of shares 
(thousands)

Earnings
per share 
pence

Loss  
for the  
year  
£m 

Weighted  
average  
number  
of shares  
(thousands) 

Loss 
per share 
pence

39.1 

410,003

9.5

(10.8) 

375,687 

(2.9)

Basic earnings/(loss) per share 

Profit/(loss) attributable 
to equity holders  

Effect of potentially 
dilutive securities 

Share options and contingent shares 

– 

5,472

(0.1)

– 

– 

–

2011 

£m 

– 

– 

4.9 

4.9 

2010

£m

5.3

2.1

–

7.4

39.1 

415,475

9.4

(10.8) 

375,687 

(2.9)

Diluted earnings/(loss) per share 

Profit/(loss) attributable 
to equity holders 

17 Investment property  

Opening balance  

Additions: 

  Acquisitions arising from business combinations (see note 41) 

  Acquisitions  

  Subsequent expenditure 

Disposals 

Net valuation deficits 

Exchange adjustments 

Closing balance 

2011 
£m 

634.7 

207.8 

– 

5.4 

(23.5) 

(2.0) 

(2.5) 

819.9 

2010
£m

654.3

–

13.0

2.1

(9.5)

(0.8)

(24.4)

634.7

The group has valued all of its investment property as at 30 September 2011 at fair value. 

Information relating to the basis of valuation of investment property, the use of external independent valuers, and the judgements 
and assumptions adopted by management is set out in note 2 ‘Critical accounting estimates and assumptions’. The fees paid 
to the independent valuers were not on a contingent basis. 

A revaluation deficit of £2.0m has arisen on valuation of investment property to fair value as at 30 September 2011 (2010: deficit 
of £0.8m) and this has been taken to the income statement.  

The historical cost of the group’s investment property as at 30 September 2011 is £824.8m (2010: £638.0m).  

Rental income from investment property during the year was £49.7m (2010: £41.7m). 

Direct property repair and maintenance costs arising from investment property that generated rental income during the year was £12.4m 
(2010: £10.8m).  

Direct operating expenses arising from investment property that did not generate rental income during the year amounted to nil 
(2010: nil). 

The reduction in value of £2.5m (2010: £24.4m) relates to an exchange movement on the group’s German residential property. 
This reflects the movement in the sterling/euro exchange rate between the respective year end dates.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

102

Notes to the financial statements continued 

18 Property, plant and equipment  

Cost 

Opening cost 

Additions 

Disposals 

Closing cost 

Accumulated depreciation 

Opening accumulated depreciation 

Charge for the year 

Disposals 

Closing accumulated depreciation 

Net book value: 

Closing net book value 

Opening net book value 

All Property, plant and equipment relates to fixtures, fittings and equipment.  

19 Investment in associates 

Opening balance 

Share of profit 

Profit on redemption of equity units 

Proceeds on redemption of equity units 

Acquisition of additional equity in G:res 

Share of change in fair value of cash flow hedges taken through other comprehensive income 

Closing balance 

Disclosed as: 

  Non-current assets 

  Current assets 

Closing balance 

Total  
2011 
 £m 

5.0 

0.5 

– 

5.5 

3.7 

0.6 

– 

4.3 

1.2 

1.3 

2011 
£m 

28.7 

4.4 

– 

(0.1) 

0.3 

1.3 

34.6 

34.6 

– 

34.6 

Total 
2010
 £m

5.1

0.3

(0.4)

5.0

3.2

0.7

(0.2)

3.7

1.3

1.9

2010
£m

33.2

5.6

1.0

(9.8)

–

(1.3)

28.7

28.6

0.1

28.7

In January 2009 the investors in Schroder ResPUT agreed to a controlled liquidation of the fund. The liquidation was completed by 
31 March 2011. The equity stake in G:res1 Limited was increased from 21.63% to 21.96% during the year at a cost of £0.3m.  

 
 
 
 
 
18 Property, plant and equipment  

As at 30 September 2011, the group’s interest in associates was as follows: 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

103

G:res1 Limited 

% of ordinary 
share capital/ 
units held 

Country of 
incorporation

21.96 

Jersey

The accounting period end of G:res 1 Limited is 31 December 2011. Their results for 12 months to 30 September 2011 and their financial 
position as at that date have been equity accounted in these accounts as the three month period is considered to be material.  

In relation to the group’s investment in associates, the group’s share of the aggregated assets, liabilities, revenues and profit or loss are 
shown below: 

Non-current assets 

Current assets 

Non-current liabilities 

Current liabilities 

Net assets 

Revenues 

Profit (including share of gain on revaluation of investment property) 

2011

2010 

G:res 1 Limited 
£m

G:res 1 Limited 
£m 

ResPUT  
£m 

83.9

5.5

(53.2)

(1.6)

34.6

4.7

4.4

79.0 

5.7 

(54.4) 

(1.7) 

28.6 

4.4 

5.5 

– 

0.1 

– 

– 

0.1 

– 

0.1 

Total 
£m

79.0

5.8

(54.4)

(1.7)

28.7

4.4

5.6

Notes to the financial statements continued 

Cost 

Opening cost 

Additions 

Disposals 

Closing cost 

Accumulated depreciation 

Opening accumulated depreciation 

Charge for the year 

Disposals 

Closing accumulated depreciation 

Net book value: 

Closing net book value 

Opening net book value 

19 Investment in associates 

Opening balance 

Share of profit 

Profit on redemption of equity units 

Proceeds on redemption of equity units 

Acquisition of additional equity in G:res 

Closing balance 

Disclosed as: 

  Non-current assets 

  Current assets 

Closing balance 

All Property, plant and equipment relates to fixtures, fittings and equipment.  

Share of change in fair value of cash flow hedges taken through other comprehensive income 

Total  

2011 

 £m 

5.0 

0.5 

– 

5.5 

3.7 

0.6 

– 

4.3 

1.2 

1.3 

2011 

£m 

28.7 

4.4 

– 

(0.1) 

0.3 

1.3 

34.6 

34.6 

– 

34.6 

Total 

2010

 £m

5.1

0.3

(0.4)

5.0

3.2

0.7

(0.2)

3.7

1.3

1.9

2010

£m

33.2

5.6

1.0

(9.8)

–

(1.3)

28.7

28.6

0.1

28.7

In January 2009 the investors in Schroder ResPUT agreed to a controlled liquidation of the fund. The liquidation was completed by 

31 March 2011. The equity stake in G:res1 Limited was increased from 21.63% to 21.96% during the year at a cost of £0.3m.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

104

Notes to the financial statements continued 

20 Investment in joint ventures 

At 1 October 2009 

Loans advanced 

Provision for impairment of loans receivable 

Share of profit 

Goodwill impairment arising on investment in Gebau Vermogen GmbH 
(see note 22) 

Exchange adjustment 

Share of change in fair value of cash flow hedges taken through other 
comprehensive income  

At 30 September 2010 

Loans advanced 

Provision for impairment of loans receivable  

Share of profit 

Consolidation adjustment 

Net assets acquired through sale of subsidiary into a joint venture 

Net assets disposed of through transfer to subsidiary 

Goodwill impairment arising on investment in Gebau Vermogen GmbH 
(see note 22) 

Exchange adjustment 

Share of change in fair value of cash flow hedges taken through other 
comprehensive income 

At 30 September 2011 

Net 
assets 
£m

(3.3)

–

–

4.6

–

–

2.8

4.1

–

–

2.1

(1.3)

19.2

(7.5)

–

(0.1)

1.3

17.8

Loans 
£m

81.3

9.3

(4.9)

–

–

(0.1)

–

85.6

3.3

(1.9)

–

–

–

(80.9)

–

–

–

6.1

Goodwill  
£m 

2.7 

– 

– 

– 

(1.4) 

– 

– 

1.3 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(1.3) 

– 

– 

– 

Total 
£m

80.7

9.3

(4.9)

4.6

(1.4)

(0.1)

2.8

91.0

3.3

(1.9)

2.1

(1.3)

19.2

(88.4)

(1.3)

(0.1)

1.3

23.9

The provision for impairment of loans receivable in 2011 of £1.9m (2010: £4.9m) comprises the release of £3.3m of the provision made 
against the group’s mezzanine loan to Grainger GenInvest No.2 (2006) LLP prior to the group’s acquisition of the remaining 50% equity in 
that company (see note 41) and a £5.2m provision against the group’s investment in its Czech Republic joint ventures. 

These amounts are included within the provision for impairment on loans receivable net of write backs on the face of the consolidated 
income statement. 

The net assets disposed of through transfer to a subsidiary of £88.4m represents the group’s share of net assets and its loans to the two 
Grainger GenInvest LLP’s which became subsidiaries of Grainger on 22 March 2011 (see note 41).  

On 12 October 2010 a 50% interest in Sovereign Reversions Limited (formerly Sovereign Reversions plc) was sold to MREF II Equity Release 
Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Moorfield Real Estate Fund II for consideration of £17.5m. The remaining net assets of £19.2m were 
transferred into investment in joint ventures. The consolidation adjustment of £1.3m represents our 50% share of interest and management 
fees receivable from the Sovereign Reversions joint venture. This amount has been deducted from other income and expenses and finance 
income in the consolidated income statement and share of profit of joint ventures after tax increased by the same amount. 

Of the loans advanced of £3.3m (2010: £9.3m) only £2.1m (2010: £7.0m) was advanced in cash. The remaining £1.2m (2010: £2.3m) 
relates to interest income earned from the Grainger Geninvest LLP’s (2011: prior to 22 March 2011) that was not received in cash. 

 
Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

105

A White Paper on the proposed High Speed Rail Network from London to Birmingham indicates that the potential route will cover at least 
part of our development site (held in joint venture with Development Securities plc) at Curzon Park in Birmingham. We are still assessing 
the long-term impact with our advisers and aim to collaborate with other affected owners in the area. A provision of £4.9m was made in 
our 2010 year end accounts against the carrying value of our joint venture investment to write down the value of our investment to £nil 
and this provision is still being held. In view of the uncertainty relating to the future of the Curzon Park site, the group is seeking advice in 
order to protect its position. Should the value of the site, together with any compensation received, be insufficient to repay the bank loan 
in the joint venture entity, the group may incur further charges in respect if its obligations to the joint venture and the bank. 

At 30 September 2011, the group’s interest in joint ventures was as follows: 

% of ordinary share capital held 

Country of incorporation

Curzon Park Limited 

King Street Developments (Hammersmith) Limited 

Sovereign Reversions Limited 

CCZ a.s. 

CCY a.s. 

Prazsky Project a.s. 

Gebau Vermogen GmbH 

50 

50 

50 

50 

50 

50 

50 

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

Czech Republic

Czech Republic

Czech Republic

Germany

The accounting period end of Curzon Park Limited is 31 December 2011. The results for 12 months to 30 September 2011 and the 
financial position as at that date have been equity accounted in these accounts.  

The accounting period end of King Street Developments (Hammersmith) is 31 March 2012. The results for 12 months to 30 September 
2011 and the financial position as at that date have been equity accounted in these accounts.  

In relation to the group’s investment in joint ventures, the group’s share of the aggregated assets, liabilities, revenues and profit or loss 
are shown below. In relation to the two Grainger GenInvest LLP’s, the revenues and profits relate to the period from 1 October 2010 
to 22 March 2011 when the group acquired the remaining 50% equity (see note 41).  

Notes to the financial statements continued 

20 Investment in joint ventures 

Provision for impairment of loans receivable 

Goodwill impairment arising on investment in Gebau Vermogen GmbH 

Share of change in fair value of cash flow hedges taken through other 

At 1 October 2009 

Loans advanced 

Share of profit 

(see note 22) 

Exchange adjustment 

comprehensive income  

At 30 September 2010 

Loans advanced 

Provision for impairment of loans receivable  

Share of profit 

Consolidation adjustment 

Net assets acquired through sale of subsidiary into a joint venture 

Net assets disposed of through transfer to subsidiary 

Goodwill impairment arising on investment in Gebau Vermogen GmbH 

Share of change in fair value of cash flow hedges taken through other 

(see note 22) 

Exchange adjustment 

comprehensive income 

At 30 September 2011 

Net 

assets 

£m

(3.3)

4.6

2.8

4.1

–

–

–

–

–

–

2.1

(1.3)

19.2

(7.5)

–

(0.1)

1.3

17.8

Loans 

£m

81.3

9.3

(4.9)

(0.1)

85.6

3.3

(1.9)

(80.9)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

6.1

Goodwill  

£m 

2.7 

(1.4) 

1.3 

(1.3) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

Total 

£m

80.7

9.3

(4.9)

4.6

(1.4)

(0.1)

2.8

91.0

3.3

(1.9)

2.1

(1.3)

19.2

(88.4)

(1.3)

(0.1)

1.3

23.9

The provision for impairment of loans receivable in 2011 of £1.9m (2010: £4.9m) comprises the release of £3.3m of the provision made 

against the group’s mezzanine loan to Grainger GenInvest No.2 (2006) LLP prior to the group’s acquisition of the remaining 50% equity in 

that company (see note 41) and a £5.2m provision against the group’s investment in its Czech Republic joint ventures. 

These amounts are included within the provision for impairment on loans receivable net of write backs on the face of the consolidated 

income statement. 

The net assets disposed of through transfer to a subsidiary of £88.4m represents the group’s share of net assets and its loans to the two 

Grainger GenInvest LLP’s which became subsidiaries of Grainger on 22 March 2011 (see note 41).  

On 12 October 2010 a 50% interest in Sovereign Reversions Limited (formerly Sovereign Reversions plc) was sold to MREF II Equity Release 

Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Moorfield Real Estate Fund II for consideration of £17.5m. The remaining net assets of £19.2m were 

transferred into investment in joint ventures. The consolidation adjustment of £1.3m represents our 50% share of interest and management 

fees receivable from the Sovereign Reversions joint venture. This amount has been deducted from other income and expenses and finance 

income in the consolidated income statement and share of profit of joint ventures after tax increased by the same amount. 

Of the loans advanced of £3.3m (2010: £9.3m) only £2.1m (2010: £7.0m) was advanced in cash. The remaining £1.2m (2010: £2.3m) 

relates to interest income earned from the Grainger Geninvest LLP’s (2011: prior to 22 March 2011) that was not received in cash. 

 
 
 
Grainger plc

106

Notes to the financial statements continued 

20 Investment in joint ventures continued 
2011 Summarised income statement 

Grainger 
GenInvest 
LLP  
£m 

Grainger 
GenInvest 
No.2 (2006) 
LLP  
£m 

Czech 
Republic 
combined 
£m

Curzon Park 
Limited 
£m

2011 

King Street 
Developments 
(Hammersmith) 
Limited 
£m

Sovereign 
Reversions 
Limited  
£m 

Gebau 
Vermogen 
GmbH  
£m 

Net rental income and other income

Administration and other expenses 

Profit on disposal of 
investment property 

Operating profit before 
valuation gains 

Net valuation gains on 
investment property 

Operating profit after valuation gains

0.3 

– 

0.1 

0.4 

1.7 

2.1 

1.7 

– 

– 

1.7 

2.2 

3.9 

Interest payable 

(0.6) 

(2.7) 

Change in fair value derivatives  

Profit/(loss) before tax 

Taxation 

Profit/(loss) after tax 

– 

1.5 

– 

1.5 

– 

1.2 

– 

1.2 

2011 Summarised balance sheet 

–

–

–

–

–

–

(0.2)

–

(0.2)

–

(0.2)

–

–

–

–

–

–

(0.3)

–

(0.3)

–

(0.3)

– 

(0.4) 

0.6 

0.2 

– 

0.2 

(0.4) 

(0.2) 

(0.4) 

0.3 

(0.1) 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

2011 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

Current assets 

Total assets 

Non-current liabilities 

Current liabilities 

Net assets/(liabilities) 

Czech 
Republic 
combined 
£m

Curzon 
Park 
Limited 
£m

King Street 
Developments 
(Hammersmith) 
Limited 
£m

Sovereign 
Reversions 
Limited  
£m 

Gebau 
Vermogen 
GmbH  
£m 

14.8

14.8

–

(12.6)

2.2

18.6

18.6

(21.1)

–

(2.5)

2.0

2.0

–

(2.0)

–

36.6 

36.6 

(16.7) 

(2.1) 

17.8 

0.7 

0.7 

(0.4) 

– 

0.3 

Total 
£m

2.0

(0.4)

0.7

2.3

3.9

6.2

(4.2)

(0.2)

1.8

0.3

2.1

Total 
£m

72.7

72.7

(38.2)

(16.7)

17.8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

107

Notes to the financial statements continued 

Grainger 

2011 

King Street 

Grainger 

GenInvest 

Czech 

Developments 

Sovereign 

Gebau 

GenInvest 

No.2 (2006) 

Republic 

Curzon Park 

(Hammersmith) 

Reversions 

Vermogen 

combined 

Limited 

Limited 

Limited  

£m

£m

£m

GmbH  

£m 

LLP  

£m 

0.3 

– 

0.1 

0.4 

1.7 

2.1 

1.5 

– 

– 

1.5 

LLP  

£m 

1.7 

– 

– 

1.7 

2.2 

3.9 

1.2 

– 

– 

1.2 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(0.2)

(0.3)

(0.2)

(0.3)

£m 

– 

(0.4) 

0.6 

0.2 

– 

0.2 

(0.4) 

(0.2) 

(0.4) 

0.3 

(0.1) 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Total 

£m

2.0

(0.4)

0.7

2.3

3.9

6.2

(4.2)

(0.2)

1.8

0.3

2.1

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

2011 

King Street 

Czech 

Curzon 

Developments 

Sovereign 

Gebau 

Republic 

combined 

Park 

(Hammersmith) 

Reversions 

Vermogen 

Limited 

Limited 

Limited  

GmbH  

£m

14.8

14.8

–

(12.6)

2.2

£m

18.6

18.6

(21.1)

–

(2.5)

£m

2.0

2.0

(2.0)

–

–

£m 

36.6 

36.6 

(16.7) 

(2.1) 

17.8 

£m 

0.7 

0.7 

(0.4) 

– 

0.3 

Total 

£m

72.7

72.7

(38.2)

(16.7)

17.8

Net rental income and other income

Administration and other expenses 

Profit on disposal of 

investment property 

Operating profit before 

valuation gains 

Net valuation gains on 

investment property 

Operating profit after valuation gains

Change in fair value derivatives  

Profit/(loss) before tax 

Taxation 

Profit/(loss) after tax 

2011 Summarised balance sheet 

Current assets 

Total assets 

Non-current liabilities 

Current liabilities 

Net assets/(liabilities) 

20 Investment in joint ventures continued 

2011 Summarised income statement 

2010 Summarised income statement 

2010 

Grainger 
GenInvest 
LLP 
£m 

Grainger 
GenInvest 
No.2 (2006) 
LLP 
£m

Czech 
Republic 
combined 
£m

Curzon Park 
Limited 
£m

King Street 
Developments 
(Hammersmith)  
Limited  
£m 

Gebau 
Vermogen 
GmbH 
£m 

Interest payable 

(0.6) 

(2.7) 

(0.2)

(0.3)

2010 Summarised balance sheet 

Net rental income and other income 

Profit on disposal of investment property 

Operating profit before valuation gains 

Net valuation gains on investment properties 

Operating profit after valuation gains  

Interest payable 

Profit/(loss) before tax 

Taxation 

Profit/(loss) after tax 

0.9 

0.1 

1.0 

4.7 

5.7 

(1.9)

3.8 

– 

3.8 

2.8

0.4

3.2

2.2

5.4

(4.0)

1.4

–

1.4

–

–

–

–

–

(0.2)

(0.2)

–

(0.2)

–

–

–

–

–

(0.4)

(0.4)

–

(0.4)

2010 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

0.2 

– 

0.2 

– 

0.2 

(0.2) 

– 

– 

– 

Investment property 

Current assets 

Total assets 

Non-current liabilities 

Current liabilities 

Net assets/(liabilities) 

Grainger 
GenInvest 
LLP 
£m 

Grainger 
GenInvest 
No.2 (2006) 
LLP 
£m

Czech 
Republic 
combined 
£m

Curzon Park 
Limited 
£m

King Street 
Developments 
(Hammersmith)  
Limited  
£m 

Gebau 
Vermogen 
GmbH  
£m 

41.6 

0.6 

42.2 

(6.4)

101.1

3.6

104.7

(4.0)

(28.9)

(104.1)

6.9 

(3.4)

–

14.9

14.9

(5.6)

(6.8)

2.5

–

18.6

18.6

(20.7)

(0.1)

(2.2)

– 

1.9 

1.9 

– 

(1.9) 

– 

– 

1.2 

1.2 

– 

(0.9) 

0.3 

Total 
£m

3.9

0.5

4.4

6.9

11.3

(6.7)

4.6

–

4.6

Total
£m

142.7

40.8

183.5

(36.7)

(142.7)

4.1

The results and financial position of the three Czech Republic companies have been aggregated in the above tables as individually they are 
not material and the development being undertaken in Prague is being managed as a single development with each company owning 
part of the combined site. 

21 Financial interest in property assets 

Opening balance 

Cash received from the instrument 

Amounts taken to income statement 

Amounts taken to other comprehensive income before tax 

Closing balance 

2011 
£m 

103.9 

(9.2) 

7.9 

(0.3) 

2010
£m

109.1

(10.8)

2.5

3.1

102.3 

103.9

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

108

Notes to the financial statements continued 

21 Financial interest in property assets 

Financial interest in property assets relates to the CHARM portfolio, which is a financial interest in equity mortgages held by the Church 
of England Pensions Board as mortgagee. It is accounted for under IAS 39 in accordance with the designation available-for-sale financial 
assets and is valued at fair value.  

For interests held at 30 September 2011 we have revised our assessment of the projected future cash flows from the instrument. This has 
contributed to a decrease in the fair value of £0.3m (2010: increase of £3.1m) before tax which has been taken through the statement of 
other comprehensive income and the available-for-sale reserve.  

Credit risk arises from the credit exposure relating to cash receipts from the financial instrument. All of the cash receipts are payable by the 
Church Commissioners, a counterparty considered to be low risk as they have no history of past due or impaired amounts and there are 
no past due amounts outstanding at the year end.  

The CHARM portfolio is considered to be a Level 3 financial asset as defined by IFRS 7. The key assumptions used to value the asset are set 
out within note 2 ‘Critical accounting estimates and assumptions’, and the financial asset is included within the fair value hierarchy within 
note 25. 

22 Goodwill 

Opening balance 

Arising on prior year acquisition 

Impairment charge taken to income statement 

Closing balance 

2011 
£m 

6.2 

– 

(0.9) 

5.3 

Goodwill arising in the prior year of £0.4m relates to the group’s acquisition of PHA Limited on 31 March 2010 (see note 42).  

The total goodwill impairment charge in the income statement comprises: 

Impairment charge as shown above 

Impairment charge relating to Gebau Vermogen GmbH (see note 20) 

2011 
£m 

(0.9) 

(1.3) 

(2.2) 

2010
£m

5.9

0.4

(0.1)

6.2

2010
£m

(0.1)

(1.4)

(1.5)

 
 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

Financial interest in property assets relates to the CHARM portfolio, which is a financial interest in equity mortgages held by the Church 

of England Pensions Board as mortgagee. It is accounted for under IAS 39 in accordance with the designation available-for-sale financial 

assets and is valued at fair value.  

For interests held at 30 September 2011 we have revised our assessment of the projected future cash flows from the instrument. This has 

contributed to a decrease in the fair value of £0.3m (2010: increase of £3.1m) before tax which has been taken through the statement of 

other comprehensive income and the available-for-sale reserve.  

Credit risk arises from the credit exposure relating to cash receipts from the financial instrument. All of the cash receipts are payable by the 

Church Commissioners, a counterparty considered to be low risk as they have no history of past due or impaired amounts and there are 

no past due amounts outstanding at the year end.  

The CHARM portfolio is considered to be a Level 3 financial asset as defined by IFRS 7. The key assumptions used to value the asset are set 

out within note 2 ‘Critical accounting estimates and assumptions’, and the financial asset is included within the fair value hierarchy within 

note 25. 

22 Goodwill 

Opening balance 

Arising on prior year acquisition 

Impairment charge taken to income statement 

Closing balance 

Goodwill arising in the prior year of £0.4m relates to the group’s acquisition of PHA Limited on 31 March 2010 (see note 42).  

The total goodwill impairment charge in the income statement comprises: 

Impairment charge as shown above 

Impairment charge relating to Gebau Vermogen GmbH (see note 20) 

2011 

£m 

6.2 

– 

(0.9) 

5.3 

2011 

£m 

(0.9) 

(1.3) 

(2.2) 

2010

£m

5.9

0.4

(0.1)

6.2

2010

£m

(0.1)

(1.4)

(1.5)

21 Financial interest in property assets 

23 Inventories – trading property 

Residential trading property 

Development trading property 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

109

2011 
£m 

1,024.9 

80.2 

1,105.1 

2010
£m

908.5

81.4

989.9

The market value of inventories as at 30 September 2011 was £1,449.1m (2010: £1,321.4m). 

Provisions of £1.8m against the net realisable value of residential trade property have been charged to the consolidated income 
statement in the year. (2010: credit to income statement of £2.9m). Further details are given in note 2 ‘Critical accounting estimates 
and assumptions’.  

The cost of inventories recognised as an expense in the consolidated income statement is shown in note 7 ‘Profit on disposal of trading 
property’ and amounted to £108.2m (2010: £90.8m). 

It is not possible for the group to identify which properties will be sold within the next twelve months. The size of the group’s property 
portfolio does result in a relatively predictable vacancy rate. However, it is not possible to predict in advance the specific properties that will 
become vacant. Trading property is shown as a current asset in the consolidated statement of financial position. 

24 Trade and other receivables 

Trade receivables 

Deduct: Provision for impairment of trade receivables 

Trade receivables – net 

Other receivables 

Deduct: Provision for impairment of other receivables 

Other receivables – net 

Prepayments  

2011 
£m 

11.5 

(2.1) 

9.4 

17.7 

(12.9) 

4.8 

4.1 

18.3 

2010
£m

8.8

(2.0)

6.8

16.0

(10.6)

5.4

5.0

17.2

The fair values of trade and other receivables are considered to be equal to their carrying amounts. 

Other receivables includes a loan of £nil net of an impairment provision of £12.9m (2010: loan of £1.6m net of an impairment provision of 
£10.6m) made to the Mornington Capital Special Situations Co-investment Fund 1 Limited Partnership (‘Mornington’). The increase in the 
provision arises from a revision of the cash flow projections. The increase in the balance before provision arises from the addition of unpaid 
interest receivable and foreign exchange movements. No further cash investment has been made in the year. The group is in regular 
contact with the fund managers at Mornington and is discussing how to realise value from the investment made. However, in assessing 
impairment, a reasonable view has been taken on assessment of the discounted future cash flows likely to be realised. The loan has been 
used by the fund to invest in real estate joint venture partnerships. The loan bears interest at between 5% and 8% per annum above 
EURIBOR and is repayable within one year. The loan is secured by fixed and floating charges over the assets of the fund. 

Other receivables also include a loan of £3.2m (2010: £2.4m) made to Clarins Limited to enable that company to develop a property 
in the City of Westminster. The loan is interest free and subordinated to the senior debt provider funding the development. Grainger 
is entitled to a priority profit share of up to £4.3m on sale of the developed property. The loan is secured by a charge on the property 
being developed.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

110

Notes to the financial statements continued 

24 Trade and other receivables continued 
As at 30 September 2011, tenant arrears of £2.1m within trade receivables were impaired and fully provided for (2010: £2.0m). The 
individually impaired receivables are based on a review of outstanding arrears and an assessment of collectability. The ageing of these 
receivables is: 

Up to two months 

Three months or more 

2011 
£m 

0.1 

2.0 

2.1 

2010
£m

0.1

1.9

2.0

Rental receivables are due on demand and hence all balances outstanding at the year end are past due. The balances within trade 
receivables which are past due but are not considered to be impaired, because we have either collected the debt since the balance sheet 
date or there is a history of regular payment, are as follows: 

Up to two months 

The carrying amounts of the group’s trade and other receivables are denominated in the following currencies: 

Pounds Sterling 

Euros 

Movements on the group provision for impairment of trade receivables are as follows: 

Opening balance 

Provision for receivables impairment during the year 

Receivables written off during the period as not recoverable 

Unused amounts reversed 

Closing balance 

2011 
£m 

2.7 

2011 
£m 

15.7 

2.6 

18.3 

2011 
£m 

2.0 

0.7 

(0.6) 

– 

2.1 

2010
£m

2.5

2010
£m

13.1

4.1

17.2

2010
£m

2.2

2.2

(1.6)

(0.8)

2.0

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

24 Trade and other receivables continued 

As at 30 September 2011, tenant arrears of £2.1m within trade receivables were impaired and fully provided for (2010: £2.0m). The 

individually impaired receivables are based on a review of outstanding arrears and an assessment of collectability. The ageing of these 

Rental receivables are due on demand and hence all balances outstanding at the year end are past due. The balances within trade 

receivables which are past due but are not considered to be impaired, because we have either collected the debt since the balance sheet 

date or there is a history of regular payment, are as follows: 

The carrying amounts of the group’s trade and other receivables are denominated in the following currencies: 

receivables is: 

Up to two months 

Three months or more 

Up to two months 

Pounds Sterling 

Euros 

Movements on the group provision for impairment of trade receivables are as follows: 

Opening balance 

Provision for receivables impairment during the year 

Receivables written off during the period as not recoverable 

Unused amounts reversed 

Closing balance 

2011 

£m 

0.1 

2.0 

2.1 

2011 

£m 

2.7 

2011 

£m 

15.7 

2.6 

18.3 

2011 

£m 

2.0 

0.7 

(0.6) 

– 

2.1 

2010

£m

0.1

1.9

2.0

2010

£m

2.5

2010

£m

13.1

4.1

17.2

2010

£m

2.2

2.2

(1.6)

(0.8)

2.0

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

111

The charge/credit relating to the creation and release of provisions for impaired receivables have been included in property repair and 
maintenance costs in the consolidated income statement (see note 6). Amounts provided for are generally written off when there is 
no expectation of recovering additional cash. 

The loan due from Mornington included within other receivable has been fully impaired and the provision made in the year of £2.3m 
(2010: £5.8m) is included within the provision for impairment on loans on the face of the consolidated income statement. The other 
classes within trade and other receivables do not contain impaired assets. 

The maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting date is the carrying value of each class of receivables mentioned above. Tenant 
deposits of £4.0m (2010: £3.7m) are held which provide some security against rental arrears and property dilapidations caused by the 
tenant. In addition the loans to Mornington and Clarins are secured as described above. The group does not hold any other collateral 
as security. 

25 Financial risk management and derivative financial instruments 
Financial risk management 
The group’s objectives for managing financial risk are to minimise the risk of adverse effects on performance and to ensure the ability 
of the group to continue as a going concern while securing access to cost effective finance and maintaining flexibility to respond quickly 
to opportunities which arise. 

The group’s policies on financial risk management are approved by the board of directors and implemented by group treasury. Written 
policies and procedures cover interest rate risk, credit risk, the use of derivative and non-derivative financial instruments and investment 
of excess liquidity. Compliance is monitored by internal auditors. Group treasury reports to the risk committee. 

The group uses derivative financial instruments to hedge its exposure to financial risk but does not take positions for speculative purposes. 

The sources of financial risk and the policies and activities used to mitigate each are discussed below and include credit risk, liquidity risk 
and market risk which includes interest rate risk, foreign exchange risk, house price risk in relation to the CHARM portfolio, our financial 
interest in property assets, and capital risk. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

112

Notes to the financial statements continued 

25 Financial risk management and derivative financial instruments continued 
Categories of financial instruments 
A summary of the classifications of the financial assets and liabilities held by the group is set out in the following table: 

Loans and 
receivables/
cash and cash 
equivalents
£m

Assets at fair 
value through 
profit and loss 
£m 

Derivatives 
used for 
hedging
£m

Available-
for-sale
£m

Total book 
value
£m

Fair value 
£m 

Fair value 
adjustment
£m

2011 

Financial interest in 
property assets 

Trade and other 
receivables 

Derivative financial 
instruments 

Cash and cash 
equivalents 

Total financial assets 

–

14.2

–

90.9

105.1

– 

– 

0.2 

– 

0.2 

–

–

–

–

–

102.3

102.3

102.3 

–

–

–

102.3

14.2

0.2

90.9

207.6

14.2 

0.2 

90.9 

207.6 

–

–

–

–

–

Liabilities at fair 
value through 
profit and loss 
£m 

Derivatives 
used for 
hedging
£m

Other financial 
liabilities at 
amortised 
cost
£m

Total book 
value
£m

Fair value 
£m 

Fair value 
adjustment
£m

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

91.8 

91.8 

62.7

62.7

1,428.0

1,428.0

1,441.9 

13.9

4.0

0.6

4.0

0.6

4.0 

0.6 

116.7

116.7

116.7 

18.2

18.2

18.2 

–

154.5

154.5 

–

–

–

–

–

1567.5

1,722.0

1,735.9 

13.9

105.1

(91.6) 

(62.7)

(1,465.2)

(1,514.4)

(1,528.3) 

(13.9)

Non-current 
liabilities 

Interest-bearing loans 
and borrowings 

Trade and other 
payables 

Provisions for other 
liabilities and charges 

Current liabilities 

Interest-bearing loans 
and borrowings 

Trade and other 
payables 

Derivative financial 
instruments 

Total financial 
liabilities 

Total net financial 
assets/(liabilities) 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

25 Financial risk management and derivative financial instruments continued 

Categories of financial instruments 

A summary of the classifications of the financial assets and liabilities held by the group is set out in the following table: 

Loans and 

receivables/

cash and cash 

equivalents

£m

Assets at fair 

value through 

profit and loss 

£m 

Derivatives 

used for 

hedging

£m

2011 

Available-

for-sale

£m

Total book 

value

£m

Fair value 

£m 

Fair value 

adjustment

£m

Financial interest in 

property assets 

Trade and other 

receivables 

Derivative financial 

instruments 

Cash and cash 

equivalents 

Total financial assets 

14.2

–

–

90.9

105.1

Non-current 

liabilities 

Interest-bearing loans 

and borrowings 

Trade and other 

payables 

Provisions for other 

liabilities and charges 

Current liabilities 

Interest-bearing loans 

and borrowings 

Trade and other 

payables 

Derivative financial 

instruments 

Total financial 

liabilities 

Total net financial 

assets/(liabilities) 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

102.3

102.3

102.3 

–

–

–

102.3

14.2

0.2

90.9

207.6

14.2 

0.2 

90.9 

207.6 

– 

– 

0.2 

– 

0.2 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Liabilities at fair 

Derivatives 

value through 

profit and loss 

£m 

used for 

hedging

£m

Other financial 

liabilities at 

amortised 

cost

£m

Total book 

value

£m

Fair value 

£m 

Fair value 

adjustment

£m

1,428.0

1,428.0

1,441.9 

13.9

4.0

0.6

4.0

0.6

4.0 

0.6 

116.7

116.7

116.7 

18.2

18.2

18.2 

–

154.5

154.5 

91.8 

91.8 

62.7

62.7

1567.5

1,722.0

1,735.9 

13.9

105.1

(91.6) 

(62.7)

(1,465.2)

(1,514.4)

(1,528.3) 

(13.9)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

113

Loans and 
receivables/
cash and cash 
equivalents
£m

Assets at fair 
value through 
profit and loss 
£m 

Derivatives used 
for hedging
£m

Available-
for-sale
£m

Total book  
value 
£m 

Fair value 
£m 

Fair value 
adjustment
£m

2010 

Financial interest in 
property assets 

Trade and other 
receivables 

Derivative financial 
instruments 

Cash and cash 
equivalents 

Total financial assets 

–

12.2

–

91.5

103.7

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

103.9

103.9 

103.9 

–

–

–

103.9

12.2 

12.2 

– 

– 

91.5 

207.6 

91.5 

207.6 

–

–

–

–

–

Liabilities at fair 
value through 
profit and loss 
£m 

Derivatives used 
for hedging
£m

Other financial 
liabilities at 
amortised cost
£m

Total book 
 value 
£m 

Fair value 
£m 

Fair value 
adjustment
£m

Non-current 
liabilities 

Interest-bearing loans 
and borrowings 

Trade and other 
payables 

Provisions for other 
liabilities and charges 

Current liabilities 

Interest-bearing loans 
and borrowings 

Trade and other 
payables 

Derivative financial 
instruments 

Total financial 
liabilities 

Total net financial 
assets/(liabilities) 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

72.7 

72.7 

1,361.7

1,361.7 

1,374.4 

12.7

–

–

–

–

–

4.0

0.8

55.6

15.8

4.0 

0.8 

55.6 

15.8 

4.0 

0.8 

55.6 

15.8 

–

–

–

–

–

55.6

–

128.3 

128.3 

55.6

1,437.9

1,566.2 

1,578.9 

12.7

103.7

(72.7) 

(55.6)

(1,334.0)

(1,358.6) 

(1,371.3) 

(12.7)

The fair value adjustment relates to the group’s fixed rate loan with Lloyds TSB Bank plc, the liability component of the convertible 
bond, and the group’s fixed rate loans with UniCredit Bank AG all of which are stated at amortised cost in the consolidated statement 
of financial position. There is no requirement under IAS 39 to revalue these loans to fair value in the consolidated statement of 
financial position. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

114

Notes to the financial statements continued 

25 Financial risk management and derivative financial instruments continued 
Credit risk 
Credit risk is the risk of financial loss due to a counterparty’s failure to honour its obligations. The group’s principal financial assets include 
its financial interest in property assets, bank balances and cash, trade and other receivables and financial derivatives. The carrying amount 
of financial assets recorded in the financial statements represents the group’s maximum exposure to credit risk without taking account of 
the value of any collateral obtained. 

The group’s financial interest in property assets relates to a financial interest in equity mortgages held by the Church of England Pensions 
Board as mortgagee, a counterparty considered to be low risk as they have no history of past due or impaired amounts and there are no 
past due amounts outstanding at the year end. 

The group’s principal credit risk relates to trade receivables. Where it is identified that recovery is doubtful a provision for impairment 
is made. For all Assured Shorthold Tenancies credit checks are performed prior to acceptance of the tenant. Regulated tenants are 
incentivised through the benefit of their tenancy agreement to avoid default on their rent. Lifetime tenancies are generally at low or zero 
rent and hence suffer minimal credit risk. Rent deposits and personal guarantees are held in respect of some leases. Taking these factors 
into account, the risk to the group of individual tenant default and the credit risk of trade receivables is considered low, as is borne out 
by the low level of trade receivables written off both in this year and in prior years. 

The credit risk on liquid funds and derivative financial instruments is managed through the group’s policies of monitoring counterparty 
exposure, concentration of credit risk through the use of multiple counterparties and the use of counterparties of good financial standing. 
Cash and short-term deposits at 30 September 2011 amounted to £90.9m (2010: £91.5m). Deposits were placed with financial 
institutions with A- or better credit ratings. 

At 30 September 2011, the fair value of all interest rate derivatives which had a positive value was £0.2m (2010: nil). For 2011 balances, 
all the counterparties have investment grade credit ratings. 

At 30 September 2011, the largest combined credit exposure to a single counterparty arising from money market deposits and interest 
rate swaps was £246.8m (2010: £291.7m) which represents 11.0% (2010: 14.1%) of total assets. 

At 30 September 2011, the loan advanced to Mornington Capital Special Situations Co-investment Fund 1 Limited Partnership was 
impaired on the basis of discounted future cash flows (see note 24).  

Liquidity risk 
The group ensures that it maintains continuity and flexibility through a spread of maturities. 

Although the group’s core funding is supported by covenants requiring certain levels of loan to value with respect to the entities in 
the group of obligors and to maintaining a certain level of interest cover at the group level the loan is not secured directly against any 
property allowing operational flexibility. The group has operated well within its covenants during 2011 and as at 30 September 2011 
(see note 2 ‘Critical accounting estimates and assumptions’). 

The group ensures that it maintains sufficient cash for operational requirements at all times. The group uses short-term money market 
deposits to manage its liquidity. The group also ensures that it has sufficient undrawn committed borrowing facilities from a diverse range 
of banks and other sources to allow for operational flexibility and to meet committed expenditure. 

The UK residential business in particular is very cash generative from its gross rents and sales of trading properties. In adverse trading 
conditions, investment sales can be increased and new acquisitions can be stopped. Consequently, the group is able to reduce gearing 
levels and improve liquidity quickly. 

The following table analyses the group’s financial liabilities and net-settled derivative financial liabilities at the balance sheet date into 
relevant maturity groupings based on the remaining period to the contractual maturity date. The amounts disclosed in the table are the 
contractual undiscounted cash flows. As the amounts included in the table are the contractual undiscounted cash flows, these amounts 
will not equal the amounts disclosed on the balance sheet for borrowings, derivative financial instruments, trade and other payables and 
provisions for liabilities and charges. A reconciliation to the balance sheet amounts is given on pages 115 and 116. Trade and other 
payables due within 12 months equal their carrying balances as the impact of discounting is not significant. 

 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

25 Financial risk management and derivative financial instruments continued 

Credit risk 

Credit risk is the risk of financial loss due to a counterparty’s failure to honour its obligations. The group’s principal financial assets include 

its financial interest in property assets, bank balances and cash, trade and other receivables and financial derivatives. The carrying amount 

of financial assets recorded in the financial statements represents the group’s maximum exposure to credit risk without taking account of 

the value of any collateral obtained. 

The group’s financial interest in property assets relates to a financial interest in equity mortgages held by the Church of England Pensions 

Board as mortgagee, a counterparty considered to be low risk as they have no history of past due or impaired amounts and there are no 

past due amounts outstanding at the year end. 

The group’s principal credit risk relates to trade receivables. Where it is identified that recovery is doubtful a provision for impairment 

is made. For all Assured Shorthold Tenancies credit checks are performed prior to acceptance of the tenant. Regulated tenants are 

incentivised through the benefit of their tenancy agreement to avoid default on their rent. Lifetime tenancies are generally at low or zero 

rent and hence suffer minimal credit risk. Rent deposits and personal guarantees are held in respect of some leases. Taking these factors 

into account, the risk to the group of individual tenant default and the credit risk of trade receivables is considered low, as is borne out 

by the low level of trade receivables written off both in this year and in prior years. 

The credit risk on liquid funds and derivative financial instruments is managed through the group’s policies of monitoring counterparty 

exposure, concentration of credit risk through the use of multiple counterparties and the use of counterparties of good financial standing. 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

115

The cash flows are calculated using yield curves for floating rate interest-bearing liabilities. Foreign currency related cash flows are 
calculated by means of the forward rates relevant to each maturity date. 

Less than 
1 year
£m

Between
1 and 2
years
£m

Between 
2 and 5 
years 
£m 

Over 5 
years 
£m 

Total
£m

At 30 September 2011 

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 

Cash flow hedges 

Derivatives at fair value through profit and loss 

Trade and other payables 

Provision for liabilities and charges 

173.3

23.2

12.0

56.3

0.1

62.9

18.5

12.9

4.0

0.1

17.8 

35.7 

– 

0.4 

1,240.7 

447.2 

1,924.1

11.2 

35.8 

– 

0.4 

Over 5 
years 
£m 

70.7

96.4

60.3

1.0

Total
£m

Less than 
1 year
£m

Between
1 and 2
years
£m

Between 
2 and 5 
years 
£m 

Cash and short-term deposits at 30 September 2011 amounted to £90.9m (2010: £91.5m). Deposits were placed with financial 

At 30 September 2010 

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 

At 30 September 2011, the fair value of all interest rate derivatives which had a positive value was £0.2m (2010: nil). For 2011 balances, 

Cash flow hedges 

Derivatives at fair value through profit and loss 

institutions with A- or better credit ratings. 

all the counterparties have investment grade credit ratings. 

At 30 September 2011, the largest combined credit exposure to a single counterparty arising from money market deposits and interest 

Trade and other payables 

rate swaps was £246.8m (2010: £291.7m) which represents 11.0% (2010: 14.1%) of total assets. 

At 30 September 2011, the loan advanced to Mornington Capital Special Situations Co-investment Fund 1 Limited Partnership was 

impaired on the basis of discounted future cash flows (see note 24).  

Provision for liabilities and charges 

Reconciliation of maturity analysis  

Liquidity risk 

The group ensures that it maintains continuity and flexibility through a spread of maturities. 

Although the group’s core funding is supported by covenants requiring certain levels of loan to value with respect to the entities in 

the group of obligors and to maintaining a certain level of interest cover at the group level the loan is not secured directly against any 

property allowing operational flexibility. The group has operated well within its covenants during 2011 and as at 30 September 2011 

(see note 2 ‘Critical accounting estimates and assumptions’). 

The group ensures that it maintains sufficient cash for operational requirements at all times. The group uses short-term money market 

deposits to manage its liquidity. The group also ensures that it has sufficient undrawn committed borrowing facilities from a diverse range 

of banks and other sources to allow for operational flexibility and to meet committed expenditure. 

The UK residential business in particular is very cash generative from its gross rents and sales of trading properties. In adverse trading 

conditions, investment sales can be increased and new acquisitions can be stopped. Consequently, the group is able to reduce gearing 

levels and improve liquidity quickly. 

The following table analyses the group’s financial liabilities and net-settled derivative financial liabilities at the balance sheet date into 

relevant maturity groupings based on the remaining period to the contractual maturity date. The amounts disclosed in the table are the 

contractual undiscounted cash flows. As the amounts included in the table are the contractual undiscounted cash flows, these amounts 

will not equal the amounts disclosed on the balance sheet for borrowings, derivative financial instruments, trade and other payables and 

provisions for liabilities and charges. A reconciliation to the balance sheet amounts is given on pages 115 and 116. Trade and other 

payables due within 12 months equal their carrying balances as the impact of discounting is not significant. 

At 30 September 2011 

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings (see note 26) 

Foreign exchange impact of forward rates 

Interest 

Unamortised borrowing costs 

Financial liability cash flows shown above 

92.0

22.4

10.5

34.6

0.1

90.1

19.9

11.7

–

0.1

Less than
1 year
£m

Between 
1 and 2
years
£m

116.7

–

52.0

4.6

173.3

8.9

–

49.4

4.6

62.9

1,185.4 

198.2 

1,565.7

20.6 

28.7 

4.0 

0.4 

Between  
2 and 5 
years 
£m 

1,082.0 

(0.4) 

148.1 

11.0 

1,240.7 

1.3 

18.4 

– 

0.6 

Over 5 
years 
£m 

337.1 

(0.4) 

107.0 

3.5 

447.2 

64.2

69.3

38.6

1.2

Total
£m

1,544.7

(0.8)

356.5

23.7

1,924.1

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

116

Notes to the financial statements continued 

25 Financial risk management and derivative financial instruments continued 
Between 
2 and 5
years
£m

Between 
1 and 2
years
£m

Less than
1 year
£m

Over 5 
years 
£m 

Total
£m

At 30 September 2010 

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings (see note 26) 

Foreign exchange impact of forward rates 

Interest 

Unamortised borrowing costs 

Financial liability cash flows shown above 

55.6

–

33.4

3.0

92.0

51.4

(0.1)

35.8

3.0

90.1

1,144.9

165.4 

1,417.3

(3.6)

41.7

2.4

(4.5) 

36.0 

1.3 

(8.2)

146.9

9.7

1,185.4

198.2 

1,565.7

The group’s undrawn committed borrowing facilities are monitored against projected cash flows. 

Maturity of committed undrawn borrowing facilities 

Expiring: 

Within one year 

Between one and two years 

Between two and five years 

Total 

2011 
£m 

171.2 

– 

– 

171.2 

2010
£m

5.0

–

188.1

193.1

The above facilities are those freely available to be drawn for group purposes. 

Market risk 
The group is exposed to market risk through interest rates, foreign exchange fluctuations, the availability of credit and house price 
movements relating to the CHARM portfolio. The approach the group takes to each of these risks is set out below. The group 
is not significantly exposed to equity price risk or to commodity price risk. 

Fair values 
IFRS 7 sets out a three-tier hierarchy for financial assets and liabilities value at fair value. These are as follows: 

Level 1 – quoted prices in active markets for identified assets and liabilities 

Level 2 – inputs other than quoted prices included in level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly as prices or indirectly 

as derived from prices; and 

Level 3 – inputs for assets and liabilities that are not based on observable market data. 

The fair value of swaps and other financial instruments is derived from the present value of future cash flows discounted at rates obtained 
by means of the current yield curve appropriate for those instruments. As all significant inputs required to value the swaps are observable, 
they all fall within level 2. 

The CHARM portfolio falls within level 3, inputs not based on observable market data. Note 21 provides a reconciliation of movements 
and amounts recognised in the income statement and other comprehensive income. The basis of valuation and the sensitivity to changes 
in the key valuation assumptions are documented in note 2, ‘Critical accounting estimates and assumptions’.  

 
 
 
 
 
Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

117

Notes to the financial statements continued 

At 30 September 2010 

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings (see note 26) 

Foreign exchange impact of forward rates 

Interest 

Unamortised borrowing costs 

Financial liability cash flows shown above 

Maturity of committed undrawn borrowing facilities 

Expiring: 

Within one year 

Between one and two years 

Between two and five years 

Total 

Market risk 

Fair values 

The above facilities are those freely available to be drawn for group purposes. 

Over 5 

years 

£m 

(4.5) 

36.0 

1.3 

2011 

£m 

171.2 

– 

– 

171.2 

Total

£m

(8.2)

146.9

9.7

2010

£m

5.0

–

188.1

193.1

25 Financial risk management and derivative financial instruments continued 

The following table presents the group’s assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value.  

Less than

1 year

£m

Between 

1 and 2

years

£m

Between 

2 and 5

years

£m

55.6

–

33.4

3.0

92.0

51.4

(0.1)

35.8

3.0

90.1

(3.6)

41.7

2.4

1,185.4

198.2 

1,565.7

1,144.9

165.4 

1,417.3

Financial interest in property assets 

Level 3 

Level 2 

Interest rate swaps – in cash flow hedge accounting relationships 

Interest rate swaps – not in cash flow hedge accounting relationships 

2011 

Assets
£m

Liabilities

£m  

2010 

Assets 
£m 

Liabilities
£m

102.3

–

0.2

102.5

–  

103.9 

–

62.7  

91.8  

154.5  

– 

– 

103.9 

55.6

72.7

128.3

The group’s undrawn committed borrowing facilities are monitored against projected cash flows. 

Interest rate swaps are all classified as either current assets or current liabilities. 

The notional principal amounts of the outstanding interest rate swap contracts as at 30 September 2011 was £986.5m (2010: £932.2m).  

All of the financial derivatives included in the above table were valued by external consultants, J.C. Rathbone Associates Ltd, using 
a discounted cash flow model and quoted market information and were checked internally using a bespoke software package. 

In accordance with IAS 39, the group has reviewed its interest rate hedges. In the absence of hedge accounting, movements in fair value 
are taken directly to the income statement. However, where cash flow hedges have been viewed as being effective, and have been 
designated as such, any gains or losses have been taken to other comprehensive income through the cash flow hedge reserve. 

A valuation was carried out at 30 September 2011 by external consultants, J.C. Rathbone Associates Ltd, to calculate the market value 
of the group’s fixed rate debt on a replacement basis, taking into account the difference between the fixed interest rates for the group’s 
borrowings and the market value and prevailing interest rate of appropriate debt instruments, as a fair value adjustment. The fair values 
compared to the carrying amounts of the group’s fixed rate financial liabilities are analysed below. 

The group is exposed to market risk through interest rates, foreign exchange fluctuations, the availability of credit and house price 

movements relating to the CHARM portfolio. The approach the group takes to each of these risks is set out below. The group 

is not significantly exposed to equity price risk or to commodity price risk. 

Fixed rate loan facilities 

IFRS 7 sets out a three-tier hierarchy for financial assets and liabilities value at fair value. These are as follows: 

Level 1 – quoted prices in active markets for identified assets and liabilities 

Level 2 – inputs other than quoted prices included in level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly as prices or indirectly 

as derived from prices; and 

Fixed rate loan facilities 

Book value at 
30 September 
2011 
£m 

Fair value at
30 September
2011
£m

80.8 

94.7

Book value at 
30 September 
2010 
£m 

Fair value at
30 September
2010
£m

83.8 

96.5

Level 3 – inputs for assets and liabilities that are not based on observable market data. 

The fair value of swaps and other financial instruments is derived from the present value of future cash flows discounted at rates obtained 

by means of the current yield curve appropriate for those instruments. As all significant inputs required to value the swaps are observable, 

they all fall within level 2. 

The CHARM portfolio falls within level 3, inputs not based on observable market data. Note 21 provides a reconciliation of movements 

and amounts recognised in the income statement and other comprehensive income. The basis of valuation and the sensitivity to changes 

in the key valuation assumptions are documented in note 2, ‘Critical accounting estimates and assumptions’.  

Interest rate risk 
The group’s interest rate risk arises from the risk of fluctuations in interest charges on floating rate borrowings. The group mitigates 
this risk through the use of variable to fixed interest rate swaps, caps and collars. This subjects the group to fair value risk as the value 
of the financial derivatives fluctuates in line with variations in interest rates. However, the group seeks to cash flow hedge account where 
applicable. The group is, however, driven by commercial considerations when hedging its interest rate risk and is not driven by the strict 
requirements of the hedge accounting rules under IAS 39 if this is to the detriment of achieving the best commercial arrangement. 

Hedging activities are carried out under the terms of the group’s hedging policies and are regularly reviewed by the board to ensure 
compliance with this policy. The board reviews its policy on interest rate exposure regularly with a view to establishing that it is still relevant 
in the prevailing and forecast economic environment. The current group treasury policy is to maintain floating rate exposure of no greater 
than 35% of expected borrowing. As at 30 September 2011, 73% (2010: 75%) of the group’s net borrowings were economically hedged 
to fixed or capped rates. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

118

Notes to the financial statements continued 

25 Financial risk management and derivative financial instruments continued 
At 30 September 2011, the weighted average interest rate of the group’s fixed rate debt is 4.2% (2010: 4.2%). The weighted average 
period for which the rate is fixed is 17.9 years (2010: 18.3 years).  

At 30 September 2011 the fixed interest rates on the interest rate swap contracts vary from 2.805% to 5.26% (2010: 3.51% to 5.26%) 
with a weighted average rate of 4.5% (2010: 4.6%) and a weighted average maturity of 7.0 years (2010: 7.0 years). 

At 30 September 2011 the weighted average interest rate of the group’s variable rate debt is 2.9% (2010: 1.9%). The weighted average 
debt maturity is 5.0 years (2010: 2.7 years).  

Based on the group’s interest rate profile at the balance sheet date a 1% increase in interest rates would decrease annual profits by £4.6m 
(2010: £4.1m). Similarly a 1% decrease would increase annual profits by £4.4m (2010: £4.1m).  

Based on the group’s interest rate profile at the balance sheet date a 1% increase in interest rates would decrease the group’s equity 
by £3.4m (2010: £3.0m). Similarly a 1% decrease would increase the group’s equity by £3.2m (2010: £3.0m).  

Upward movements in medium and long-term interest rates, associated with higher interest rate expectation, increase the value of the 
group’s interest rate swaps that provide protection against such moves. The converse is true for downward movements in the interest yield 
curve. Where the group’s swaps qualify as effective hedges under IAS 39, these movements in fair value are recognised directly in other 
comprehensive income rather than the income statement. 

As at 30 September 2011, the market value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges under IAS 39, is a net liability of £62.7m (2010: 
net liability of £55.6m). The fair value movement on derivatives not in hedge accounting relationships and amounts reclassified from equity 
to the income statement amounted, in aggregate, to a charge of £28.0m (2010: charge of £39.6m) in the income statement analysed 
as follows: 

Fair value movement on derivatives not designated as cash flow hedges 

Amounts reclassified from equity to the income statement 

2011 
£m 

18.8 

9.2 

28.0 

2010
£m

33.4

6.2

39.6

At 30 September 2011, the market value of derivatives not designated as cash flow hedges under IAS 39, is a net liability of £91.6m 
(2010: net liability of £72.7m). The cash flows occur and enter in the determination of profit and loss until the maturity of the 
hedged debt.  

The table below summarises debt hedged at 30 September 2011. 

Cash flow hedged debt 

Cash flow hedges maturing: 

  Within one year 

  Between one and two years 

  Between two and five years 

  Over five years 

2011 
£m 

24.1 

298.8 

553.2 

110.4 

986.5 

2010
£m

75.0

13.0

789.0

55.2

932.2

 
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

25 Financial risk management and derivative financial instruments continued 

At 30 September 2011, the weighted average interest rate of the group’s fixed rate debt is 4.2% (2010: 4.2%). The weighted average 

period for which the rate is fixed is 17.9 years (2010: 18.3 years).  

At 30 September 2011 the fixed interest rates on the interest rate swap contracts vary from 2.805% to 5.26% (2010: 3.51% to 5.26%) 

with a weighted average rate of 4.5% (2010: 4.6%) and a weighted average maturity of 7.0 years (2010: 7.0 years). 

At 30 September 2011 the weighted average interest rate of the group’s variable rate debt is 2.9% (2010: 1.9%). The weighted average 

debt maturity is 5.0 years (2010: 2.7 years).  

Fixed rate 

Hedged rate 

Variable rate 

2011 

2010 

Sterling 
£m 

56.8 

712.9 

364.2 

1,133.9 

Euro
£m

24.0

349.7

60.8

434.5

Total
£m

80.8

1,062.6

425.0

1,568.4

Sterling 
£m 

58.6 

630.0 

292.9 

981.5 

Euro 
£m 

25.2 

366.0 

54.3 

445.5 

Total
£m

83.8

996.0

347.2

1,427.0

Interest rate profile – including the effect of derivatives 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

119

Foreign exchange risk 
The group’s foreign exchange risk arises from the exposure due to translating overseas trading performance and overseas net assets into 
sterling and it does not have foreign currency trading with cross border currency flows. The group hedges foreign currency assets naturally 
by funding them through borrowings in the applicable foreign currency and aims to ensure that it has no material unhedged net assets or 
liabilities denominated in a foreign currency. Profit translation is not hedged. 

The group’s balance sheet translation exposure is summarised below: 

Gross foreign currency assets 

Gross foreign currency liabilities 

Net exposure 

2011
Euro
£m

451.2

(461.1)

(9.9)

2010 
Euro 
£m 

2011 
Czech Koruna 
£m 

2010
Czech Koruna
£m

459.7 

(475.4) 

(15.7) 

2.2 

– 

2.2 

7.5

–

7.5

As at 30 September 2011 it is estimated that a general increase/decrease of 10 percentage points in the value of Sterling against the Euro 
would increase/decrease the group’s profit before tax by approximately £0.3m (2010: £0.2m) and equity by £1.0m (2010: £1.6m). 

As at 30 September 2011 it is estimated that a general increase/decrease of 10 percentage points in the value of Sterling against the 
Czech Koruna would increase/decrease the group’s profit before tax by approximately £0.5m (2010: £0.3m) and equity by £0.2m 
(2010: £0.8m). 

Credit availability risk 
Credit availability risk relates to the group’s ability to refinance its borrowings at the end of their terms or to secure additional financing 
where necessary. The group maintains relationships with a range of lenders and maintains sufficient headroom through cash and 
committed borrowings. On 30 September 2011 the group signed a new Forward Start Facility providing £840m of committed facilities 
which will be used to refinance the group’s existing core facilities. In addition, the group has signed two debt financing agreements 
with Partnership Assurance since the year end securing an aggregate amount of £78.9m of new financing. More information is provided 
in note 2 ‘Critical accounting estimates and assumptions’. 

House price risk 
The cash flows arising from the group’s financial interest in property assets (CHARM) are related to the movement in value of the 
underlying property assets and, therefore, are subject to movements in house prices. However, consistent with the group’s approach to 
house price risk across its portfolio of trading and investment properties the group does not seek to eliminate this risk as it is a 
fundamental part of the group’s business model. 

At 30 September 2011 it is estimated that, with respect to the group’s financial interest in property assets a general increase/(decrease) of 
one percentage point in house prices at the balance sheet date would increase/(decrease) the group’s profit before tax by approximately 
£0.8m (2010: £0.9m).  

Based on the group’s interest rate profile at the balance sheet date a 1% increase in interest rates would decrease annual profits by £4.6m 

(2010: £4.1m). Similarly a 1% decrease would increase annual profits by £4.4m (2010: £4.1m).  

Based on the group’s interest rate profile at the balance sheet date a 1% increase in interest rates would decrease the group’s equity 

by £3.4m (2010: £3.0m). Similarly a 1% decrease would increase the group’s equity by £3.2m (2010: £3.0m).  

Upward movements in medium and long-term interest rates, associated with higher interest rate expectation, increase the value of the 

group’s interest rate swaps that provide protection against such moves. The converse is true for downward movements in the interest yield 

curve. Where the group’s swaps qualify as effective hedges under IAS 39, these movements in fair value are recognised directly in other 

comprehensive income rather than the income statement. 

As at 30 September 2011, the market value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges under IAS 39, is a net liability of £62.7m (2010: 

net liability of £55.6m). The fair value movement on derivatives not in hedge accounting relationships and amounts reclassified from equity 

to the income statement amounted, in aggregate, to a charge of £28.0m (2010: charge of £39.6m) in the income statement analysed 

as follows: 

Fair value movement on derivatives not designated as cash flow hedges 

Amounts reclassified from equity to the income statement 

At 30 September 2011, the market value of derivatives not designated as cash flow hedges under IAS 39, is a net liability of £91.6m 

(2010: net liability of £72.7m). The cash flows occur and enter in the determination of profit and loss until the maturity of the 

The table below summarises debt hedged at 30 September 2011. 

hedged debt.  

Cash flow hedged debt 

Cash flow hedges maturing: 

  Within one year 

  Between one and two years 

  Between two and five years 

  Over five years 

2011 

£m 

18.8 

9.2 

28.0 

2011 

£m 

24.1 

298.8 

553.2 

110.4 

986.5 

2010

£m

33.4

6.2

39.6

2010

£m

75.0

13.0

789.0

55.2

932.2

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

120

Notes to the financial statements continued 

25 Financial risk management and derivative financial instruments continued 
There is no effect on equity as a result of a change in house prices as in accordance with IAS 39 AG8 changes to future cash flows are 
recognised though the income statement.  

We have considered the impact of changes to the vacation rate used in the cash flow model. However, we do not consider this to be a 
material risk and actual experience to date has been very close to the vacation assumption adopted in the model. 

Capital risk management 
The board manages the group’s capital through the regular review of: cash flow projections, the ability of the group to meet contractual 
commitments, covenant tests, dividend cover and gearing. 

The group manages the level of its shareholders’ funds by means of dividends, share purchases and share issues. 

The rights issue completed in December 2009 is an example of how the board manages the group’s capital. The rights issue proceeds 
were used, inter alia, to improve the balance sheet leverage ratios and to reduce the overall size and cost of the group’s debt.  

Loans within the group have associated covenant requirements with respect to loan to value and interest cover ratios. The board regularly 
reviews all covenants and projected future levels to monitor anticipated compliance and available headroom against key thresholds. For the 
group as a whole the board does not have a specific loan to value target but it is reviewed in the context of the board’s view of markets, 
the prospects of and risks relating to the portfolio and the recurring cash flows of the business. 

The group monitors its cost of debt and weighted average cost of capital (WACC) on a regular basis. At 30 September 2011, the weighted 
average cost of debt was 5.8% (2010: 5.0%) and the WACC was 4.91% (2010: 5.66%). Investment and development opportunities are 
evaluated using a risk adjusted WACC in order to ensure long-term shareholder value is created. 

Certain group subsidiaries are regulated by the Financial Services Authority and therefore have externally applied capital adequacy 
requirements, however, these do not have any material impact on the group as a whole. 

26 Financial assets and liabilities 
i) Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 

Current liabilities 

Bank loans  

Loan notes 

Mortgages 

Non-current liabilities 

Bank loans 

Non-bank financial institution 

Mortgages 

Convertible bond 

Total interest-bearing loans and borrowings 

2011 
£m 

116.3 

– 

0.4 

116.7 

2010
£m

49.8

5.5

0.3

55.6

1,285.7 

1,318.6

98.9 

20.9 

22.5 

1,428.0 

1,544.7 

–

21.5

21.6

1,361.7

1,417.3

 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

121

The group’s core banking facility as at 30 September 2011 was £1,093m of which £927m was drawn. Committed but undrawn amounts 
under the group’s core banking facility were therefore £166m. 

In addition, the group had free cash balances plus available overdraft facilities of £48m as at 30 September 2011. The group signed a new 
£840m Forward Start Facility on 30 September 2011 which is available for drawdown at any time up to 30 September 2012. When this is 
drawn, it will be used to repay the amount drawn on the group’s core banking facility. 

As disclosed further in note 2 on page 83, the group has signed two debt financing agreements with Partnership Assurance since the year 
end securing an aggregate amount of £78.9m of new debt financing. This new debt is being used to reduce the core banking facility 
mentioned above. 

The group has sufficient flexibility through cash generation and these new facilities to ensure that it can operate its business as planned 
and meet its strategic objectives. 

(a) Analysis of bank loans 

Bank loans – Pounds Sterling 

Bank loans – Euro 

2011  
£m 

1,011.2 

413.2 

1,424.4 

2010 
£m

954.1

423.7

1,377.8

Sterling bank loans include variable rate loans bearing interest at rates between 0.9% and 3.8% above LIBOR and Euro bank loans include 
variable rate loans bearing interest at rates between 0.6% and 2.4% above EURIBOR. Fixed rate loans bear interest at rates between 5.2% 
and 7.5%. 

The weighted average interest rate on bank loans as at 30 September 2011 was 5.9% (2010: 5.1%). Bank loans are secured by fixed and 
floating charges over specific property and other assets of the group. 

(b) Analysis of non-bank financial institutions 

Variable rate – Pounds Sterling 

2011 
£m 

100.0 

2010
£m

–

The variable rate loan from M & G UK Companies Financing Fund LP is secured by floating charges over the assets of the group. The loan 
bears interest at 4% over LIBOR. 

(c) Analysis of loan notes 

Fixed Rate – Pounds Sterling 

Floating rate – Pounds Sterling 

2011 
£m 

– 

– 

– 

2010
£m

0.3

5.2

5.5

Total interest-bearing loans and borrowings 

The outstanding loan notes at the start of the year of £5.5m were virtually all repaid during the year with the balance as at 30 September 
2011 having reduced to £48,000.  

Notes to the financial statements continued 

25 Financial risk management and derivative financial instruments continued 

There is no effect on equity as a result of a change in house prices as in accordance with IAS 39 AG8 changes to future cash flows are 

recognised though the income statement.  

We have considered the impact of changes to the vacation rate used in the cash flow model. However, we do not consider this to be a 

material risk and actual experience to date has been very close to the vacation assumption adopted in the model. 

Capital risk management 

The board manages the group’s capital through the regular review of: cash flow projections, the ability of the group to meet contractual 

commitments, covenant tests, dividend cover and gearing. 

The group manages the level of its shareholders’ funds by means of dividends, share purchases and share issues. 

The rights issue completed in December 2009 is an example of how the board manages the group’s capital. The rights issue proceeds 

were used, inter alia, to improve the balance sheet leverage ratios and to reduce the overall size and cost of the group’s debt.  

Loans within the group have associated covenant requirements with respect to loan to value and interest cover ratios. The board regularly 

reviews all covenants and projected future levels to monitor anticipated compliance and available headroom against key thresholds. For the 

group as a whole the board does not have a specific loan to value target but it is reviewed in the context of the board’s view of markets, 

the prospects of and risks relating to the portfolio and the recurring cash flows of the business. 

The group monitors its cost of debt and weighted average cost of capital (WACC) on a regular basis. At 30 September 2011, the weighted 

average cost of debt was 5.8% (2010: 5.0%) and the WACC was 4.91% (2010: 5.66%). Investment and development opportunities are 

evaluated using a risk adjusted WACC in order to ensure long-term shareholder value is created. 

Certain group subsidiaries are regulated by the Financial Services Authority and therefore have externally applied capital adequacy 

requirements, however, these do not have any material impact on the group as a whole. 

26 Financial assets and liabilities 

i) Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 

Current liabilities 

Bank loans  

Loan notes 

Mortgages 

Non-current liabilities 

Bank loans 

Non-bank financial institution 

Mortgages 

Convertible bond 

2011 

£m 

116.3 

– 

0.4 

116.7 

98.9 

20.9 

22.5 

1,428.0 

1,544.7 

2010

£m

49.8

5.5

0.3

55.6

–

21.5

21.6

1,361.7

1,417.3

1,285.7 

1,318.6

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

122

Notes to the financial statements continued 

26 Financial assets and liabilities continued 
(d) Mortgages 

Mortgages – Euro 

2011 
£m 

21.3 

2010
£m

21.8

The mortgages are secured by floating and fixed charges over the investment property in the group’s German residential portfolio and 
bear interest at a fixed rate of 0.5%. 

(e) Convertible bond 

Opening balance 

Early conversion during the year 

Amortised during the year 

Closing balance (Pounds Sterling) 

2011 
£m 

21.9 

– 

0.8 

22.7 

2010
£m

21.3

–

0.6

21.9

The analysis of the loans and borrowings in the above tables (a) to (e) is before deducting unamortised issue costs of £23.7m (2010: 
£9.7m) relating to the raising of the loan finance.  

Other loans and borrowings information 
The core banking facility, variable rate UK bank loans and the European bank loans are generally rolled over every three months. At roll 
over, LIBOR, EURIBOR and PRIBOR are reset for the following interest period. 

The fixed rate UK bank loan and the mortgages are at a fixed rate of interest which do not reprice. The fixed rate loan is repayable after 
more than five years. The mortgage has repayments of £0.3m within one year, £1.1m within two to five years and £19.9m after more 
than five years. The effective interest rate on borrowings during the year was 5.4% (2010: 5.6%). 

The maturity profile of the group’s debt, net of finance costs and including the new £840m forward start facility signed on 30 September 
2011 is as follows: 

Within one year 

Between one and two years 

Between two and five years 

Over five years 

2011 
£m 

116.7 

8.9 

1,082.0 

337.1 

1,544.7 

2010
£m

55.6

51.4

1,144.9

165.4

1,417.3

 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

26 Financial assets and liabilities continued 

(d) Mortgages 

ii) Financial assets 
The group has the following cash and cash equivalents at 30 September 2011: 

The mortgages are secured by floating and fixed charges over the investment property in the group’s German residential portfolio and 

Pounds Sterling 

Euros 

Czech Koruna 

Cash and cash equivalents can be analysed as follows: 

Cash at bank  

Short-term deposits 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

123

2011 
£m 

64.8 

25.9 

0.2 

90.9 

2011 
£m 

23.4 

67.5 

90.9 

2010
£m

77.7

13.6

0.2

91.5

2010
£m

22.7 

68.8 

91.5 

The analysis of the loans and borrowings in the above tables (a) to (e) is before deducting unamortised issue costs of £23.7m (2010: 

£9.7m) relating to the raising of the loan finance.  

Other loans and borrowings information 

The core banking facility, variable rate UK bank loans and the European bank loans are generally rolled over every three months. At roll 

over, LIBOR, EURIBOR and PRIBOR are reset for the following interest period. 

The fixed rate UK bank loan and the mortgages are at a fixed rate of interest which do not reprice. The fixed rate loan is repayable after 

more than five years. The mortgage has repayments of £0.3m within one year, £1.1m within two to five years and £19.9m after more 

than five years. The effective interest rate on borrowings during the year was 5.4% (2010: 5.6%). 

The maturity profile of the group’s debt, net of finance costs and including the new £840m forward start facility signed on 30 September 

Short-term deposits totalling £nil (2010: £5.4m) with an average maturity of three months are held as cash collateral. These have 
an effective interest rate of nil (2010: 0.6%). 

Included within 2011 year end cash balances is £11.7m (2010: £7.5m) held in third-party client accounts where Grainger acts as Trustee 
or agent. The corresponding liability is included within trade payables. 

At the year end £67.5m was placed on deposit (2010: £63.4m) at effective interest rates between 0.75% and 1.23% (2010: 0.9% and 
1.55%). Remaining cash and cash equivalents are held as cash at bank or in hand. 

The group has an overdraft facility of £5m as at 30 September 2011 (2010: £5m). 

Mortgages – Euro 

bear interest at a fixed rate of 0.5%. 

(e) Convertible bond 

Opening balance 

Early conversion during the year 

Amortised during the year 

Closing balance (Pounds Sterling) 

2011 is as follows: 

Within one year 

Between one and two years 

Between two and five years 

Over five years 

2011 

£m 

21.3 

2011 

£m 

21.9 

– 

0.8 

22.7 

2010

£m

21.8

2010

£m

21.3

–

0.6

21.9

2011 

£m 

116.7 

8.9 

1,082.0 

337.1 

1,544.7 

2010

£m

55.6

51.4

1,144.9

165.4

1,417.3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

124

Notes to the financial statements continued 

27 Non-current liabilities 

i) Trade and other payables 

Deferred consideration payable 

2011 
£m 

4.0 

Trade and other payables is deferred consideration for the purchase of land at West Waterlooville and is payable in April 2013.  

ii) Provisions for other liabilities and charges 

Other 

2011 
£m 

0.6 

2010
£m

4.0

2010
£m

0.8

28 Pension costs 
Defined contribution scheme 
The group operates a defined contribution pension scheme for its employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those 
of the group in independently administered funds. Pension arrangements for directors are disclosed in the report of the remuneration 
committee and the directors’ remuneration report on page 51 and page 54. The pension cost charge in these financial statements 
represents contributions payable by the group. The charge of £0.8m (2010: £0.7m) is included within employee remuneration in note 11.  

Defined benefit scheme 
In addition to the above, the group also operates a final salary defined benefit pension scheme, the BPT Limited Retirement Benefits 
Scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately in funds administered by trustees and are invested with Friends Life, an independent 
investment manager. Costs and funding are assessed with the advice of an independent qualified actuary using the projected unit credit 
method. Actuarial valuations are carried out every three years. The last actuarial valuation issued was as at 1 July 2007 although the 
valuation as at 1 July 2010 is substantially complete as at the date of these financial statements. This scheme was operated by BPT Limited 
which became a subsidiary of Grainger plc in 2003. 

No benefits have accrued since 30 June 2003 although active members retain a final salary link.  

Pension benefits for deferred members are based on the members’ final pensionable salaries and service at the date accrual ceased (or 
date of leaving if earlier).  

 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

27 Non-current liabilities 

i) Trade and other payables 

Deferred consideration payable 

ii) Provisions for other liabilities and charges 

Other 

28 Pension costs 

Defined contribution scheme 

Trade and other payables is deferred consideration for the purchase of land at West Waterlooville and is payable in April 2013.  

2011 

£m 

4.0 

2011 

£m 

0.6 

2010

£m

4.0

2010

£m

0.8

The group operates a defined contribution pension scheme for its employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those 

of the group in independently administered funds. Pension arrangements for directors are disclosed in the report of the remuneration 

committee and the directors’ remuneration report on page 51 and page 54. The pension cost charge in these financial statements 

represents contributions payable by the group. The charge of £0.8m (2010: £0.7m) is included within employee remuneration in note 11.  

Defined benefit scheme 

In addition to the above, the group also operates a final salary defined benefit pension scheme, the BPT Limited Retirement Benefits 

Scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately in funds administered by trustees and are invested with Friends Life, an independent 

investment manager. Costs and funding are assessed with the advice of an independent qualified actuary using the projected unit credit 

method. Actuarial valuations are carried out every three years. The last actuarial valuation issued was as at 1 July 2007 although the 

valuation as at 1 July 2010 is substantially complete as at the date of these financial statements. This scheme was operated by BPT Limited 

which became a subsidiary of Grainger plc in 2003. 

No benefits have accrued since 30 June 2003 although active members retain a final salary link.  

Pension benefits for deferred members are based on the members’ final pensionable salaries and service at the date accrual ceased (or 

date of leaving if earlier).  

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

125

The actuarial valuation as at 1 July 2007 was based on the main actuarial assumptions of an investment return of 6.8% per annum, 
salary increases of 4.9% per annum and inflation-linked increases to pensions in deferment of 3.4% per annum. The scheme assets were 
valued at £17.9m and scheme liabilities at £21.1m, a funding level of 85%. The funding level for the scheme at the previous valuation as 
at 1 July 2004 was 79%. The actuary also undertook a Section 179 valuation as at 1 July 2007 as required by the Pension Protection Fund. 
The funding level on a Section 179 valuation basis was 142%. 

The scheme was closed to new members and to employee contributions in 2003. Accordingly, there is no current service cost for 
the scheme. 

The IAS 19 calculations for disclosure purposes have been based upon the provisional actuarial valuation carried out as at 1 July 2010 but 
have been updated to 30 September 2011 by a qualified independent actuary. 

Principal actuarial assumptions under IAS 19 

Discount rate 

Price inflation 

Salary increases 

Rate of increase of pensions in payment 

Rate of increase for deferred pensioners 

Expected return on assets 

2011 

2010

5.30% p.a. 

4.90% p.a.

3.40% p.a. 

3.10% p.a.

4.40% p.a. 

4.60% p.a.

5.00% p.a. 

5.00% p.a.

3.40% p.a. 

3.10% p.a.

Year 
commencing  
1 October 2011 

Year 
commencing 
1 October 2010

4.80% p.a. 

5.00% p.a.

The overall expected return on assets assumption of 4.80% p.a. as at 30 September 2011 has been derived by calculating the weighted 
average of the expected rate of return for each asset class. The following approach has been used to determine the expected rate 
of return for each asset class:  

  Fixed interest securities, current market yields; 
  Equities, allowance for an additional return of 2.60% p.a. above that available on UK government securities; 
  Property, allowance for an additional return of 2.60% p.a. above that available on UK government securities;  
  Cash, current Bank of England base rate; and 
  Insured pensioner policies, in line with the discount rate.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

126

Notes to the financial statements continued 

28 Pension costs continued 
Demographic assumptions  

Mortality tables for pensioners  

2011 

  2010 

100% of S1PAIc year of 
birth tables allowing for 
a minimum improvement 
factor of 1.25% for males 
and 0.75% for females 
each year 

107% of PCA00 year of birth 
tables allowing for long cohort 
improvements with 1.25% 
minimum improvements for 
males and 0.75% minimum 
improvements for females 
each year 

Mortality tables for non-pensioners  

As for pensioners 

  As for pensioners 

Life expectancies  

Life expectancy for a current 65 year old  

87.7 years

90.1 years

88.2 years 

90.3 years

Life expectancy at age 65 for a current 55 year old  

89.0 years

90.9 years

89.5 years 

 91.1 years 

30 September 2011 

30 September 2010 

Males

Females

Males 

Females

Market value of scheme assets and expected rates of return 
The assets of the scheme are invested in a diversified portfolio as follows:  

30 September 2011 

30 September 2010 

Market 
value 
£m 

% of total 
scheme assets

Long-term
expected rate 
of return 
%

Equities 

Bonds 

Properties 

Other 

Insurance policies 

Total value of assets 

The actual return on assets over the 
period was  

5.9 

7.9 

0.4 

0.5 

3.9 

18.6 

0.4 

32%

42%

2%

3%

21%

100%

5.5%

5.1%

5.5%

0.5%

5.3%

% of total  
Scheme assets 

Long-term
expected rate 
of return 
%

33% 

40% 

2% 

3% 

22% 

100% 

6.1%

4.4%

6.1%

0.5%

4.9%

Market
value
£m

6.2

7.5

0.3

0.5

4.1

18.6

2.0

The assets of the scheme are held with Friends Life in a managed fund. As the above table shows, the assets of the scheme are primarily 
held within equities and bonds. The equity return of 5.5% in 2011 and 6.1% in 2010 are based on an equity risk premium of 2.6% above 
the 15-year fixed rate on gilts. The directors consider this to be at the mid point of the acceptable range. The return on bonds has been 
determined by reference to actual yields. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

127

Defined benefit obligations, scheme assets and scheme deficit 

2011 

  2010 

100% of S1PAIc year of 

107% of PCA00 year of birth 

birth tables allowing for 

tables allowing for long cohort 

a minimum improvement 

improvements with 1.25% 

factor of 1.25% for males 

minimum improvements for 

and 0.75% for females 

males and 0.75% minimum 

each year 

improvements for females 

Market value of scheme assets 

Present value of scheme liabilities 

Scheme deficit at 30 September 

History of assets, liabilities, experience gains and losses  

each year 

Gains/(losses) arising on scheme liabilities: 

Mortality tables for non-pensioners  

As for pensioners 

  As for pensioners 

Life expectancies  

Life expectancy for a current 65 year old  

87.7 years

90.1 years

88.2 years 

90.3 years

Life expectancy at age 65 for a current 55 year old  

89.0 years

90.9 years

89.5 years 

 91.1 years 

30 September 2011 

30 September 2010 

Males

Females

Males 

Females

Market value of scheme assets and expected rates of return 

The assets of the scheme are invested in a diversified portfolio as follows:  

  Due to experience 

  Percentage of defined benefit  
  obligation 

  Due to change of basis  

  Percentage of defined benefit  
  obligation 

Experience adjustments: 

  Gains/(losses) arising on  
  scheme assets  

  Percentage of scheme assets 

Notes to the financial statements continued 

28 Pension costs continued 

Demographic assumptions  

Mortality tables for pensioners  

30 September 2011 

30 September 2010 

Market 

% of total 

expected rate 

value 

scheme assets

of return 

Long-term

Market

value

£m

% of total  

expected rate 

Scheme assets 

Long-term

of return 

%

%

5.5%

5.1%

5.5%

0.5%

5.3%

32%

42%

2%

3%

21%

100%

£m 

5.9 

7.9 

0.4 

0.5 

3.9 

18.6 

0.4 

33% 

40% 

2% 

3% 

22% 

100% 

6.1%

4.4%

6.1%

0.5%

4.9%

6.2

7.5

0.3

0.5

4.1

18.6

2.0

Equities 

Bonds 

Properties 

Other 

Insurance policies 

Total value of assets 

The actual return on assets over the 

period was  

determined by reference to actual yields. 

The change in the present value of defined benefit obligation over the year was as follows: 

Present value of projected defined benefit obligation at the start of the year 

Interest on pension scheme liabilities 

Actuarial (gain)/loss 

Benefits paid 

Present value of projected defined benefit obligation at the end of the year 

The change in the market value of the scheme assets over the year was as follows: 

The assets of the scheme are held with Friends Life in a managed fund. As the above table shows, the assets of the scheme are primarily 

held within equities and bonds. The equity return of 5.5% in 2011 and 6.1% in 2010 are based on an equity risk premium of 2.6% above 

the 15-year fixed rate on gilts. The directors consider this to be at the mid point of the acceptable range. The return on bonds has been 

Market value of scheme assets at the start of the year 

Expected return on scheme assets 

Employer contributions 

Actuarial (loss)/gain 

Benefits paid 

Market value of scheme assets at the end of the year 

2011 
£m 

24.6 

1.2 

(1.8) 

(0.9) 

23.1 

2011 
£m 

18.6 

0.9 

0.6 

(0.6) 

(0.9) 

18.6 

2011
£m

18.6

(23.1)

(4.5)

2010
£m

18.6

(24.6)

(6.0)

2009 
£m 

16.7 

(22.5) 

(5.8) 

2008 
£m 

15.2 

(17.3) 

(2.1) 

2007
£m

14.0

(16.7)

(2.7)

2011

2010

2009 

2008 

2007

£0.1m

0.4%

£1.7m

–

–

– 

– 

£(1.6)m

£(5.0)m 

£1.3m 

7.5% 

£1.7m 

–

–

£2.0m

7.4%

(6.5)%

(22.2)% 

9.8% 

12.0%

–

–

2010
£m

22.5

1.2

1.6

(0.7)

24.6

2010
£m

16.7

0.9

0.6

1.1

(0.7)

18.6

£(0.6)m

(3.2)%

£1.1m

5.9%

£1.0m 

6.0% 

£(2.6)m 

 (17.1)% 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

128

Notes to the financial statements continued 

28 Pension costs continued 
Pension cost recognised in the income statement 

Interest on pension scheme liabilities 

Expected return on pension scheme assets 

Total pension cost 

The total pension cost shown above has been included within Finance costs (see note 13). 

Actuarial gain/(loss) recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income 

Actual return less expected return on assets 

Gain/(loss) on change of assumptions 

Total actuarial gain/(loss) before tax 

2011 
£m 

1.2 

(0.9) 

0.3 

2011 
£m 

(0.6) 

1.8 

1.2 

2010
£m

1.2

(0.9)

0.3

2010
£m

1.1

(1.6)

(0.5)

The actuarial gain shown in the above tables of £1.2m (2010: loss of £0.4m) has been included in the consolidated statement 
of comprehensive income (see page 63).  

Future funding obligation  
The last actuarial valuation of the scheme was performed by the Actuary for the Trustees as at 1 July 2007. As a result of this valuation the 
group agreed a recovery plan with the Trustees to run over seven years to pay annual deficit contributions of £580,200. Based on this plan 
the company expects to pay £597,000 including the standard expense charges payable under the Managed Fund policy, to the scheme 
during the year beginning 1 October 2011. The next actuarial valuation of the scheme as at 1 July 2010 is currently being finalised. 
Following completion of this valuation, the contributions required to be paid by the group are likely to increase.  

Sensitivity analysis  
Set out below is an analysis of how the scheme deficit would vary with changes to the key actuarial assumptions: 

Discount rate increased by 0.1% p.a. 

decrease in deficit of £0.4m 

Inflation increased by 0.1% p.a. 

increase in deficit of £0.1m 

Life expectancies increased by one year 

increase in deficit of £0.7m 

The cumulative amount of actuarial losses recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income before deferred taxation is 
£1.0m (2010: £2.2m). 

 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

28 Pension costs continued 

Pension cost recognised in the income statement 

Interest on pension scheme liabilities 

Expected return on pension scheme assets 

Total pension cost 

2011 

£m 

1.2 

(0.9) 

0.3 

2011 

£m 

(0.6) 

1.8 

1.2 

2010

£m

1.2

(0.9)

0.3

2010

£m

1.1

(1.6)

(0.5)

The total pension cost shown above has been included within Finance costs (see note 13). 

Actuarial gain/(loss) recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income 

Actual return less expected return on assets 

Gain/(loss) on change of assumptions 

Total actuarial gain/(loss) before tax 

of comprehensive income (see page 63).  

Future funding obligation  

The actuarial gain shown in the above tables of £1.2m (2010: loss of £0.4m) has been included in the consolidated statement 

The last actuarial valuation of the scheme was performed by the Actuary for the Trustees as at 1 July 2007. As a result of this valuation the 

group agreed a recovery plan with the Trustees to run over seven years to pay annual deficit contributions of £580,200. Based on this plan 

the company expects to pay £597,000 including the standard expense charges payable under the Managed Fund policy, to the scheme 

during the year beginning 1 October 2011. The next actuarial valuation of the scheme as at 1 July 2010 is currently being finalised. 

Following completion of this valuation, the contributions required to be paid by the group are likely to increase.  

Sensitivity analysis  

Set out below is an analysis of how the scheme deficit would vary with changes to the key actuarial assumptions: 

Discount rate increased by 0.1% p.a. 

decrease in deficit of £0.4m 

Inflation increased by 0.1% p.a. 

increase in deficit of £0.1m 

Life expectancies increased by one year 

increase in deficit of £0.7m 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

129

2011 
£m 

14.2 

(0.1) 

(13.6) 

0.3 

4.3 

(0.1) 

– 

5.0 

42.7 

(47.7) 

(5.0) 

2010
£m

21.1

2.4

(9.9)

(0.1)

–

0.8

(0.1)

14.2

38.4

(52.6)

(14.2)

29 Deferred tax  
The movement in the provision for deferred taxation is as follows: 

Opening balance 

Acquisition of subsidiaries in the year 

Recognised in the income statement  

Recognised in other comprehensive income:  

  Actuarial gain/ (loss) on BPT pension scheme 

  Fair value movement in cash flow hedges and exchange adjustments 

  Equity component of available-for-sale financial asset 

  Exchange adjustments 

Closing balance  

Deferred tax balances are disclosed as follows:  

  Deferred Tax assets- non-current assets 

  Deferred Tax liabilities- non-current liabilities  

Deferred tax  

In addition to the above the group has a contingent tax liability representing the difference between the carrying value of trading 
properties in the balance sheet and their market value. This contingent tax, which is not provided in the accounts, amounts to £84.9m 
(2010: £88.4m).  

Information relating to group’s deferred tax is being shown gross to identify both the deferred tax asset and deferred tax liability rather 
than the net liability shown in previous years. Comparatives have also been restated.  

It is not possible for the group to identify the timing of movements in deferred tax between those expected within one year and those 
expected in greater than one year. This is because movements in the main balances, both assets and liabilities, will be determined by 
factors outside the control of the group, namely the vacation date of properties and interest yield curve movements. However, given the 
long-term nature of our property ownership, we anticipate that the balance will predominantly be crystallised in a period greater than 
one year.  

The cumulative amount of actuarial losses recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income before deferred taxation is 

£1.0m (2010: £2.2m). 

30 Trade and other payables 

Deposits received 

Trade payables 

Taxation and social security 

Accruals and deferred income 

2011 
£m 

4.0 

12.7 

1.5 

58.2 

76.4 

2010
£m

3.7

10.9

1.2

41.5

57.3

Trade payables includes £nil (2010: £0.6m) relating to acquisitions of property where contracts have either been unconditionally 
exchanged or notarised.  

Accruals and deferred income includes £20.1m (2010: £22.7m) of rent received in advance relating to lifetime leases. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

130

Notes to the financial statements continued 

31 Share capital 

Authorised 

500,000,000 (2010: 500,000,000) ordinary shares of 5p each 

Allotted, called-up and fully paid: 

416,372,103 (2010: 416,362,420) ordinary shares of 5p each 

2011 
£m 

25.0 

20.8 

2010
£m

25.0

20.8

The group paid £0.6m to the share incentive plan during the year for the purchase of matching shares and free shares in the scheme. In 
addition, the group returned £2.2m to shareholders by way of a tender offer for shares during the year (see note 15). The total cost of 
acquiring own shares of £2.8m (2010: £4.5m) has been deducted from retained earnings within shareholders’ equity (see note 34).  

As at 30 September 2011, share capital included nil (2010: 46,803) shares held by The Grainger Trust Employee Trustee Company Limited, 
5,833,401 (2010: 5,976,623) shares held by The Grainger Employee Benefit Trusts and 1,506,300 (2010: 21,410) shares held by Grainger 
plc as treasury shares. The total of these shares is 7,339,701 (2010: 6,044,836) with a nominal value of £366,985 (2010: £302,242) and 
a market value as at 30 September 2011 of £6.4m (2010: £6.6m).  

Movements in issued share capital during the year and the previous year were as follows: 

At 1 October 2009 

Issue of shares under the rights issue 

Options exercised under the SAYE scheme 

At 30 September 2010 

Options exercised under the SAYE scheme 

At 30 September 2011 

Number 

138,798,113 

277,553,406 

10,901 

Nominal
value
£’000

6,940

13,878

–

416,362,420 

20,818

9,683 

–

416,372,103 

20,818

 
 
 
 
Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

131

Notes to the financial statements continued 

31 Share capital 

Authorised 

500,000,000 (2010: 500,000,000) ordinary shares of 5p each 

Allotted, called-up and fully paid: 

416,372,103 (2010: 416,362,420) ordinary shares of 5p each 

Share options 
Certain senior executives hold options to subscribe for shares in the company under the long-term incentive scheme (‘LTIS’). In addition, 
the company operates a SAYE share option scheme available to employees. The number of shares subject to options as at 30 September 
2011, the periods in which they were granted and the periods in which they may be exercised are given below. Prior year numbers have 
been restated to take account of the rights issue in December 2009.  

The group paid £0.6m to the share incentive plan during the year for the purchase of matching shares and free shares in the scheme. In 

2003 

Year of grant 

Long-term Incentive Scheme (LTIS) 

addition, the group returned £2.2m to shareholders by way of a tender offer for shares during the year (see note 15). The total cost of 

acquiring own shares of £2.8m (2010: £4.5m) has been deducted from retained earnings within shareholders’ equity (see note 34).  

As at 30 September 2011, share capital included nil (2010: 46,803) shares held by The Grainger Trust Employee Trustee Company Limited, 

5,833,401 (2010: 5,976,623) shares held by The Grainger Employee Benefit Trusts and 1,506,300 (2010: 21,410) shares held by Grainger 

plc as treasury shares. The total of these shares is 7,339,701 (2010: 6,044,836) with a nominal value of £366,985 (2010: £302,242) and 

a market value as at 30 September 2011 of £6.4m (2010: £6.6m).  

Movements in issued share capital during the year and the previous year were as follows: 

HMR & C Approved Executive Share Option Scheme  

2011 

SAYE share options 

2007 

2008 (A) 

2008 (B) 

2009 

2010 

2011 

416,362,420 

20,818

Total share options 

At 1 October 2009 

Issue of shares under the rights issue 

Options exercised under the SAYE scheme 

At 30 September 2010 

Options exercised under the SAYE scheme 

At 30 September 2011 

Exercise price
(pence)

Exercise 
period 

2011 
number 

2010
number

111.0

2006 – 13 

20,814 

20,814 

20,814

20,814

94.4

2013 – 20 

127,088 

127,088 

–

–

262.8

2010 – 13 

– 

1,003

97.1

37.7

68.3

90.8

98.7

2011 – 14 

100,872 

124,110

2012 – 14 

2,086,814 

2,166,864

2012 – 15 

2013 – 16 

2014 – 17 

127,788 

102,998 

99,722 

133,903

113,304

–

2,518,194 

2,539,184

2,666,096 

2,559,998

2011 

£m 

25.0 

20.8 

2010

£m

25.0

20.8

Number 

138,798,113 

277,553,406 

10,901 

9,683 

Nominal

value

£’000

6,940

13,878

–

–

416,372,103 

20,818

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

132

Notes to the financial statements continued 

31 Share capital continued 
The movement on the share options schemes during the year is as follows: 

LTIS schemes 

2003 

Weighted average exercise price (pence per share) 

HMR & C Approved Executive 
Share Option Scheme 

2011 

Weighted average exercise price (pence per share) 

SAYE scheme 

2007 

2008 (A) 

2008 (B) 

2009 

2010 

2011 

Weighted average exercise price (pence per share) 

Opening
position

20,814

20,814

111.0

–

–

–

1,003

124,110

2,166,864

133,903

113,304

–

2,539,184

40.6

Exercised

Granted

Lapsed 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(9,683)

–

–

–

–

(9,683)

97.1

–

–

–

127,088

127,088

94.4

–

–

–

–

–

99,722

99,722

98.7

Closing
position

20,814

20,814

111.0

127,088

127,088

94.4

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(1,003) 

(13,555) 

–

100,872

(80,050) 

2,086,814

(6,115) 

(10,306) 

– 

127,788

102,998

99,722

(111,029) 

2,518,194

53.6 

46.2

For those share options exercised during the year, the weighted average share price at the date of exercise was 86.6p (2010: 139.7p). 
For share options outstanding at the end of the year, the weighted average remaining contractual life is 2.4 years. (2010: 3.0 years). 
There were 56,638 (2010: 21,817) share options exercisable at the year end with a weighted average exercise price of 102.2p 
(2010: 118.0p). 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

31 Share capital continued 

The movement on the share options schemes during the year is as follows: 

Opening

position

20,814

20,814

111.0

–

–

–

–

1,003

124,110

2,166,864

133,903

113,304

2,539,184

40.6

Exercised

Granted

Lapsed 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(9,683)

127,088

127,088

94.4

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(9,683)

97.1

99,722

99,722

98.7

Closing

position

20,814

20,814

111.0

127,088

127,088

94.4

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(1,003) 

(13,555) 

–

100,872

(80,050) 

2,086,814

(6,115) 

(10,306) 

– 

127,788

102,998

99,722

(111,029) 

2,518,194

53.6 

46.2

Weighted average exercise price (pence per share) 

HMR & C Approved Executive 

Share Option Scheme 

2011 

Weighted average exercise price (pence per share) 

LTIS schemes 

2003 

SAYE scheme 

2007 

2008 (A) 

2008 (B) 

2009 

2010 

2011 

(2010: 118.0p). 

Weighted average exercise price (pence per share) 

For those share options exercised during the year, the weighted average share price at the date of exercise was 86.6p (2010: 139.7p). 

For share options outstanding at the end of the year, the weighted average remaining contractual life is 2.4 years. (2010: 3.0 years). 

There were 56,638 (2010: 21,817) share options exercisable at the year end with a weighted average exercise price of 102.2p 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

133

32 Share-based payments 
The group operates an equity-settled, share-based compensation plan comprising awards under a long-term incentive scheme (‘LTIS’), 
a deferred bonus plan (‘DBP’), a share incentive plan (‘SIP’) and a save as you earn (‘SAYE’) scheme. 

For LTIS awards granted before September 2010, one-third are subject to an absolute total shareholder return performance condition 
measured over three years from the date of grant and two-thirds are subject to annual growth in Net Net Net Asset Value (‘NNNAV’) 
measured over three years from the date of grant. For the LTIS awards granted on 26 November 2010 one-half are subject to an absolute 
total shareholder return performance condition measured over three years from the date of grant and one-half are subject to annual 
growth in Net Net Net Asset Value (‘NNNAV’) compared to the growth in the Halifax and Nationwide House Price indices all measured 
over three years from the date of grant. Awards subject to an absolute total shareholder return performance, which is a market based 
performance condition, have been valued at fair value using a Monte Carlo simulation valuation model. Awards subject to growth in 
NNNAV, which is a non-market based performance condition, have been valued at fair value using a Black-Scholes valuation model.  

Awards granted under the DBP have no specific performance conditions other than the company meeting its target for operating profit 
before valuation movements and non-recurring items (OPBVM) and continued employment by the group. There is a three-year vesting 
period from the date of grant. One third of the awards vest at the end of each year. Participants can choose to exercise their awards on 
vesting or to retain their awards within the plan until the end of the third year at which point a 50% matching element is added to their 
award entitlement. There are currently two schemes in operation commencing on 3 February 2010 and 6 December 2010 respectively. 

Awards under the DBP have been valued based on the share price at the date of the award less the dividend yield at the award date as 
there is no entitlement to dividends during the vesting period. 

Awards under the SAYE scheme have been valued at fair value using a Black Scholes valuation model. 

Awards under the SIP scheme have been based on the share price at the date of the award. 

Shares were awarded, subject to any vesting conditions set out above, to executive directors and selected employees during the year under 
the LTIS and the DBP. Share options were granted to employees of the group during the year under the SAYE scheme. The main 
assumptions used to value the shares and SAYE options granted during the year are set out in the tables below. Conditional share awards 
over a total of 545,979 shares granted to Nick Jopling and Mark Greenwood on 21 September 2010 are also shown. These were not 
disclosed in last year’s annual report as no share-based payment charge was made in 2010 relating to these awards on grounds of 
immateriality given the proximity of the awards to the group’s financial year end.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

134

Notes to the financial statements continued 

32 Share-based payments continued 
LTIS 
Share awards: 

Award date 

Number of shares on grant 

Exercise price (£) 

Vesting period from date of grant (years) 

Exercise period after vesting (years) 

Share price at grant (£) 

Expected risk free rate (%) 

Expected dividend yield (%) 

Expected volatility (%) 

Fair value (£) 

DBP 
Share awards: 

Award date 

Number of shares on grant 

Exercise price (£) 

Vesting period from date of grant (years) 

Exercise period after vesting (years) 

Share price at grant (£) 

Dividend yield (£) 

Fair value (£) 

21 September 
2010
Market based

21 September 
2010
Non-market 
based

26 November 
2010 
Market based 

26 November 
2010
Non-market 
based

181,993

363,986

917,246 

917,246

–

3

7

1.130

5.31

0.90

26.00

0.433

–

3

7

1.130

–

–

–

1.130

– 

3 

7 

0.944 

1.35 

1.54 

55.7 

0.549 

–

3

7

0.944

1.35

1.54

55.7

0.902

6 December
2010

665,642

–

1 to 3

3

0.893

0.017

0.876

 
 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

32 Share-based payments continued 

LTIS 

Share awards: 

Award date 

Number of shares on grant 

Exercise price (£) 

Vesting period from date of grant (years) 

Exercise period after vesting (years) 

Share price at grant (£) 

Expected risk free rate (%) 

Expected dividend yield (%) 

Expected volatility (%) 

Fair value (£) 

DBP 

Share awards: 

Award date 

Number of shares on grant 

Exercise price (£) 

Vesting period from date of grant (years) 

Exercise period after vesting (years) 

Share price at grant (£) 

Dividend yield (£) 

Fair value (£) 

21 September 

26 November 

21 September 

2010

26 November 

2010

Non-market 

2010 

Non-market 

Market based

based

Market based 

181,993

363,986

917,246 

917,246

–

3

7

1.130

5.31

0.90

26.00

0.433

–

3

7

–

–

–

1.130

1.130

– 

3 

7 

0.944 

1.35 

1.54 

55.7 

0.549 

2010

based

–

3

7

0.944

1.35

1.54

55.7

0.902

6 December

2010

665,642

1 to 3

–

3

0.893

0.017

0.876

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

135

14 July 2011 
3-year scheme 

14 July 2011
5-year scheme

70,031 

0.987 

3 

29,691

0.987

5

31 Oct 2014 

31 Oct 2016

1.234 

0.82 

2.17 

63.0 

0.298 

1.234

1.48

2.17

41.0

0.234

SAYE 

Number of shares on grant 

Exercise price (£) 

Vesting period from date of grant (years) 

Expected exercise date  

Share price at grant (£) 

Expected risk free rate (%) 

Expected dividend yield (%) 

Expected volatility (%) 

Fair value (£) 

The expected volatility figures used in the valuation were calculated based on the historic volatility over a period equal to the expected term 
from the date of grant. 

The share-based payments charge recognised in the income statement is £2.0m (2010: £1.3m).  

Movements in options and options exercisable as at 30 September 2011 are shown in note 31. 

33 Changes in equity 
The consolidated statement of changes in equity is shown on pages 66 and 67. Further information relating to the merger reserve and 
cash flow hedge reserve is provided below. Movements on the retained earnings reserve are set out in note 34.  

Merger reserve 
The merger reserve arose when the company issued shares in partial consideration for the acquisition of City North Group plc. The issue 
satisfied the provisions of section 612 of the Companies Act 2006 and the premium relating to the shares issued was credited to a merger 
reserve. 

In December 2009 the group completed a two for one rights issue at an issue price of 90p per share raising a total gross amount 
of £249.8m, net of costs £236.7m. The rights issue increased the number of share in issue by 277,553,406 shares, increasing share capital 
by £13.9m. The group took advantage of section 612 of the Companies Act 2006 to take proceeds in excess of the nominal value of 
shares issued, amounting to £235.9m, to a merger reserve. The group used a cash-box structure to effect the rights issue and under this 
mechanism, £235.9m was subsequently transferred to retained earnings. Costs of issue, which totalled £13.1m have been taken directly 
to reserves. 

Cash flow hedge reserve  
The fair value movements on those derivative financial instruments qualifying for hedge accounting under IAS 39 are taken to this reserve 
net of tax.  

 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

136

Notes to the financial statements continued 

34 Movement in retained earnings 
The retained earnings reserve comprises various elements. Those elements, and the movements in each, are set out below: 

Share-based 
payment reserve 
£m 

Treasury shares
bought back and 
cancelled 
£m

Investment 
in own 
shares
£m

Translation
reserve
£m

Retained 
earnings 
£m 

Total retained
earnings reserve
£m

Balance as at 1 October 2009 

2.1 

(7.8)

(9.1)

Loss for the year 

Actuarial loss on BPT pension scheme 
net of tax 

Net exchange adjustment offset in 
reserves 

Purchase of own shares 

Award of shares from own shares 

Rights issue costs 

Transfer from merger reserve 

Share-based payments charge 

Dividends  

Balance as at 30 September 2010 

Profit for the year 

Actuarial gain on BPT pension scheme 
net of tax 

Net exchange adjustment offset in 
reserves 

Purchase of own shares 

Award of shares from own shares 

Share-based payments charge 

Dividends  

Balance as at 30 September 2011 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(0.5) 

– 

– 

1.3 

– 

2.9 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(0.7) 

2.0 

– 

4.2 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(4.5)

0.5

–

–

–

–

(7.8)

(13.1)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(2.8)

0.7

–

–

1.8

–

–

0.9

–

–

–

–

–

–

2.7

–

–

(0.6)

–

–

–

–

39.1 

(10.8) 

(0.4) 

– 

– 

– 

(13.1) 

235.9 

– 

(7.4) 

243.3 

39.1 

0.8 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(4.9) 

278.3 

26.1

(10.8)

(0.4)

0.9

(4.5)

–

(13.1)

235.9

1.3

(7.4)

228.0

39.1

0.8

(0.6)

(2.8)

–

2.0

(4.9)

261.6

(7.8)

(15.2)

2.1

Share-based payments reserve  
This reserve comprises the cumulative credit entries relating to the share-based payments charge made in the income statement less the 
average cost of shares issued to employees.  

Investment in own shares reserve  
As at 30 September 2011, the group owned its own shares as follows: nil (2010: 46,803) shares held by The Grainger Trust Employee 
Trustee Company Limited, 5,833,401 (2010: 5,976,623) shares held by The Grainger Employee Benefit Trusts and 1,506,300 (2010: 
21,410) shares held by Grainger plc as treasury shares. The total of these shares is 7,339,701 (2010: 6,044,836) with a nominal value of 
£366,985 (2010: £302,242) and a market value as at 30 September 2011 of £6.4m (2010: £6.6m).  

Details relating to the rights issue and transfer from merger reserve are set out in notes 33 and 40.  

 
 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

34 Movement in retained earnings 

The retained earnings reserve comprises various elements. Those elements, and the movements in each, are set out below: 

Treasury shares

Investment 

Share-based 

bought back and 

payment reserve 

cancelled 

£m 

2.1 

£m

(7.8)

in own 

shares

£m

(9.1)

Translation

reserve

Retained 

earnings 

Total retained

earnings reserve

Award of shares from own shares 

(0.5) 

Balance as at 1 October 2009 

Loss for the year 

Actuarial loss on BPT pension scheme 

net of tax 

reserves 

Net exchange adjustment offset in 

Purchase of own shares 

Rights issue costs 

Transfer from merger reserve 

Share-based payments charge 

Dividends  

Profit for the year 

Actuarial gain on BPT pension scheme 

net of tax 

reserves 

Net exchange adjustment offset in 

Purchase of own shares 

Award of shares from own shares 

Share-based payments charge 

Dividends  

Share-based payments reserve  

average cost of shares issued to employees.  

Investment in own shares reserve  

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

1.3 

2.9 

(0.7) 

2.0 

– 

4.2 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(4.5)

0.5

(2.8)

0.7

£m

1.8

0.9

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(0.6)

£m 

39.1 

(10.8) 

(0.4) 

– 

– 

– 

(13.1) 

235.9 

– 

(7.4) 

243.3 

39.1 

0.8 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(4.9) 

278.3 

£m

26.1

(10.8)

(0.4)

0.9

(4.5)

–

(13.1)

235.9

1.3

(7.4)

228.0

39.1

0.8

(0.6)

(2.8)

–

2.0

(4.9)

261.6

Balance as at 30 September 2011 

(7.8)

(15.2)

2.1

This reserve comprises the cumulative credit entries relating to the share-based payments charge made in the income statement less the 

As at 30 September 2011, the group owned its own shares as follows: nil (2010: 46,803) shares held by The Grainger Trust Employee 

Trustee Company Limited, 5,833,401 (2010: 5,976,623) shares held by The Grainger Employee Benefit Trusts and 1,506,300 (2010: 

21,410) shares held by Grainger plc as treasury shares. The total of these shares is 7,339,701 (2010: 6,044,836) with a nominal value of 

£366,985 (2010: £302,242) and a market value as at 30 September 2011 of £6.4m (2010: £6.6m).  

Details relating to the rights issue and transfer from merger reserve are set out in notes 33 and 40.  

Balance as at 30 September 2010 

(7.8)

(13.1)

2.7

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

137

35 List of principal subsidiaries 
The directors consider that providing details of all subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates as at 30 September 2011 would result in 
disclosure of excessive length. The following information relates to those subsidiary undertakings whose results or financial position, in the 
opinion of the directors, are material to the group. A full list will be appended to the next annual return. 

Name of undertaking 

Northumberland & Durham Property Trust Limited 

Grainger Residential Management Limited 

Grainger Asset Management Limited 

Grainger Unit Holder Number 1 Limited 

West Waterlooville Developments Limited 

BPT (Bradford Property Trust) Limited 

BPT (Residential Investments) Limited 

Grainger Finance Company Limited 

Bromley Property Investments Limited 

Home Properties Limited 

Bridgewater Tenancies Limited 

Bridgewater Equity Release Limited 

Homesafe Equity Release LP 

Hamsard 2517 Limited 

Grainger Recklinghausen Portfolio One Sarl & Co KG 

Grainger Recklinghausen Portfolio Two Sarl & Co KG 

Grainger Stuttgart Portfolio One Sarl & Co KG 

Grainger Stuttgart Portfolio Two Sarl & Co KG 

Francono Rhein-Main GmbH 

Grainger Invest No. 1 LLP 

Grainger Invest No. 2 LLP 

Tricomm Housing Limited 

Grainger Luxembourg Germany Holdings Sarl 

Grainger Treasury Property (2006) LLP 

The Tilt Estate Company Limited 

Grainger Retirement Housing No.1 (2007) Limited 

BPT Limited 

All subsidiaries are consolidated in the group accounts. 

Proportion of nominal value of  
ordinary issued shares held by: 

Group
%

Company
%

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

Incorporated 

Activity

England & Wales 

Property Trading

100

100

100

England & Wales 

Property Management

England & Wales 

Asset Management

England & Wales 

Investment Company

England & Wales 

England & Wales 

Development

Property Trading

England & Wales 

Property Investment

100

England & Wales 

England & Wales 

England & Wales 

England & Wales 

England & Wales 

England & Wales 

England & Wales 

Germany 

Germany 

Germany 

Germany 

Germany 

England & Wales 

England & Wales 

Finance Company

Finance Company

Property Trading

Property Trading

Property Trading

Property Trading

Property Trading

Property Investment

Property Investment

Property Investment

Property Investment

Property Investment

Property Trading

Property Trading and 
Investment

England & Wales 

Property Investment

Luxembourg 

Investment Company

England & Wales 

Investment Partnership

England & Wales 

Property Investment

England & Wales 

Property Investment

England & Wales 

Investment Company

 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

138

Notes to the financial statements continued 

36 Related party transactions 
The group held a 50% interest in Grainger GenInvest LLP and Grainger GenInvest No 2 (2006) LLP at 1 October 2010. The remaining 
50% equity in both entities were acquired by the group on 22 March 2011 (see note 41). Prior to the acquisition, the group provided 
a number of services to both partnerships and received an asset adviser fee, a sales fee, a commercial management fee and a treasury 
services fee. Amounts recognised in the income statement and outstanding balances at the year end for the portion of the year where 
the Grainger share was 50% are as follows: 

Asset adviser fee 

Sales fee 

Commercial management fee 

Treasury fee 

In addition, the group has provided loans to both partnerships as follows: 

Grainger GenInvest LLP – 8.5% fixed interest loan note 

Grainger GenInvest No 2 (2006) LLP – 11.0% fixed interest loan note 

Grainger GenInvest No 2 (2006) LLP – mezzanine loan at LIBOR plus 4%

2011
Fees 
recognised
£’000

2011
Year end 
balance
£’000

2010 
Fees  
recognised 
£’000 

298

26

7

15

346

–

–

–

–

–

691 

49 

28 

30 

798 

2010
Year end 
balance
£’000

201

5

8

9

223

Balance as at
30 September 
2011
£m

Balance as at
30 September 
2010
£m

2011  
Interest 
receivable 
£m 

2010
 Interest
receivable
£m

–

–

–

–

8.5

5.5

79.0

93.0

0.3 

0.2 

1.9 

2.4 

0.7

0.3

3.8

4.8

Interest receivable is included within interest receivable from associates and joint ventures shown in note 13. The difference of £1.2m 
between the figure shown above of £2.4 and the amount shown in note 13 of £1.2m is a consolidation adjustment to eliminate interest 
receivable by the group from the Grainger Geninvest entities against interest payable in those entities to the group. 

The group held a 50% interest in Curzon Park Limited as at 30 September 2011. The group has provided a loan to Curzon Park Limited as 
at 30 September 2011 of £13.2m (2010: £12.8m). The loan is repayable on demand.  

 
 
Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

139

Notes to the financial statements continued 

36 Related party transactions 

The group held a 50% interest in Grainger GenInvest LLP and Grainger GenInvest No 2 (2006) LLP at 1 October 2010. The remaining 

50% equity in both entities were acquired by the group on 22 March 2011 (see note 41). Prior to the acquisition, the group provided 

a number of services to both partnerships and received an asset adviser fee, a sales fee, a commercial management fee and a treasury 

services fee. Amounts recognised in the income statement and outstanding balances at the year end for the portion of the year where 

the Grainger share was 50% are as follows: 

Asset adviser fee 

Sales fee 

Commercial management fee 

Treasury fee 

In addition, the group has provided loans to both partnerships as follows: 

Grainger GenInvest LLP – 8.5% fixed interest loan note 

Grainger GenInvest No 2 (2006) LLP – 11.0% fixed interest loan note 

Grainger GenInvest No 2 (2006) LLP – mezzanine loan at LIBOR plus 4%

2011

Fees 

£’000

298

26

7

15

346

2011

£m

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

2010

£m

8.5

5.5

79.0

93.0

2010

Year end 

balance

£’000

201

5

8

9

223

£m

0.7

0.3

3.8

4.8

691 

49 

28 

30 

798 

£m 

0.3 

0.2 

1.9 

2.4 

Balance as at

30 September 

Balance as at

30 September 

2011  

Interest 

receivable 

2010

 Interest

receivable

The group held a 22.0% interest in G:res1 Limited as at 30 September 2011. The group provides a number of services to the fund and 
receives a property management fee, a lettings and renewal fee, and an asset management fee. Amounts recognised in the income 
statement and the outstanding balance at the year end are as follows: 

recognised

2011

Year end 

balance

£’000

2010 

Fees  

recognised 

£’000 

Property management fees 

Lettings and renewal fees 

Asset management fees 

2011
Fees 
recognised
£’000

1,657

202

2,658

4,517

2011 
Year end 
balance 
£’000 

528 

80 

835 

1,443 

2010 
Fees  
recognised 
£’000 

1,421 

183 

2,302 

3,906 

2010
Year end 
balance
£’000

748

58

1,242

2,048

The group held a 21.8% interest in the Schroder Residential Property Unit Trust as at 1 October 2010, which was subject to a controlled 
liquidation completed by 31 March 2011. As a result fee income in 2011 is considerably lower than in 2010. Amounts recognised in the 
income statement and the outstanding balance at the year end are as follows: 

Property management fees 

Lettings and renewal fees 

Asset management fees 

Sales fees 

2011
Fees 
recognised
£’000

2011 
Year end 
balance 
£’000 

2010 
Fees  
recognised 
£’000 

2010
Year end 
balance
£’000

–

2

–

–

2

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

2 

11 

44 

118 

175 

–

–

–

–

–

Interest receivable is included within interest receivable from associates and joint ventures shown in note 13. The difference of £1.2m 

between the figure shown above of £2.4 and the amount shown in note 13 of £1.2m is a consolidation adjustment to eliminate interest 

receivable by the group from the Grainger Geninvest entities against interest payable in those entities to the group. 

The group held a 50% interest in Curzon Park Limited as at 30 September 2011. The group has provided a loan to Curzon Park Limited as 

at 30 September 2011 of £13.2m (2010: £12.8m). The loan is repayable on demand.  

The group held a 50% interest in New Sovereign Reversions Limited as at 30 September 2011. The group has provided a loan to 
Sovereign Reversions Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of New Sovereign Reversions Limited, as at 30 September 2011 of £1.5m. 
The loan is repayable on demand and bears interest at LIBOR plus 7% per annum. 

The group provides management services to the New Sovereign Reversions Limited group for which it receives a management fee. 
Amounts recognised in the income statement and outstanding balances at the year end are as follows:  

Asset management fees 

Details of key management compensation are provided in note 11. 

2011
Fees 
recognised
£’000

1,190

2011 
Year end 
balance 
£’000 

235 

2010 
Fees  
recognised 
£’000 

– 

2010
Year end 
balance
£’000

–

37 Capital commitments  
As at 30 September 2011, the group and its joint ventures and associates had capital commitments of £nil (2010: £nil). 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

140

Notes to the financial statements continued 

38 Operating lease commitments 
The future aggregate minimum lease payments payable by the group under non-cancellable operating leases are as follows: 

Operating lease payments due: 

  Not later than one year 

  Later than one year and not later than five years 

  Later than five years 

2011 
£m 

1.4 

3.5 

0.7 

5.6 

2010
£m

1.5

4.6

1.4

7.5

The group expects to receive £0.1m under non-cancellable sub-leases (2010: £0.8m). 

39 Contingent liabilities 
The properties in certain subsidiary companies forming a ‘guarantee group’ provide the security for the group’s core debt facility.  

Barclays Bank Plc and Lloyds TSB Bank Plc have provided guarantees under performance bonds relating to the group’s UK development 
division. As at 30 September 2011 total guarantees amounted to £2.1m (2010: £2.4m). 

In addition, the group has an obligation, under the sale and purchase agreement for the land at West Waterlooville, to pay further 
consideration should the site value exceed certain pre-agreed amounts. It is not possible to determine the amount or timing of any such 
future payments due to the long-term nature of the site’s development and the associated uncertainties. However, it is unlikely that any 
future payments will fall due until at least 2015 and any payments made will be spread over a number of years. 

As explained in more detail in note 20, there is uncertainty relating to the future of the site of Curzon Park in which the group has a 50% 
joint venture interest. Should the value of the site, together with any compensation received, be insufficient to repay the bank loan 
in the joint venture entity, the group may incur charges in excess of those provided in these financial statements, in respect of obligations 
to the joint venture and the bank.  

40 Rights issue 
In December 2009 the company completed a two for one rights issue at an issue price of 90p per share raising a total gross amount 
of £249.8m, net of costs £236.7m. The rights issue increased the number of share in issue by 277,553,406 shares, increasing share 
capital by £13.9m.  

The group took advantage of section 612 of the Companies Act 2006 to take proceeds in excess of the nominal value of shares issued, 
amounting to £235.9m, to a merger reserve. Under a cash-box mechanism this amount has been subsequently transferred to retained 
earnings. Costs of issue which totalled £13.1m have been taken directly to reserves.  

 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

38 Operating lease commitments 

The future aggregate minimum lease payments payable by the group under non-cancellable operating leases are as follows: 

Operating lease payments due: 

  Not later than one year 

  Later than one year and not later than five years 

  Later than five years 

The group expects to receive £0.1m under non-cancellable sub-leases (2010: £0.8m). 

39 Contingent liabilities 

The properties in certain subsidiary companies forming a ‘guarantee group’ provide the security for the group’s core debt facility.  

Barclays Bank Plc and Lloyds TSB Bank Plc have provided guarantees under performance bonds relating to the group’s UK development 

division. As at 30 September 2011 total guarantees amounted to £2.1m (2010: £2.4m). 

In addition, the group has an obligation, under the sale and purchase agreement for the land at West Waterlooville, to pay further 

consideration should the site value exceed certain pre-agreed amounts. It is not possible to determine the amount or timing of any such 

future payments due to the long-term nature of the site’s development and the associated uncertainties. However, it is unlikely that any 

future payments will fall due until at least 2015 and any payments made will be spread over a number of years. 

As explained in more detail in note 20, there is uncertainty relating to the future of the site of Curzon Park in which the group has a 50% 

in the joint venture entity, the group may incur charges in excess of those provided in these financial statements, in respect of obligations 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

141

2011 

£m 

1.4 

3.5 

0.7 

5.6 

2010

£m

1.5

4.6

1.4

7.5

41 Acquisitions in the year 
i) Acquisition of HI Tricomm Holdings Limited 
On 4 February 2011 Grainger acquired the HI Tricomm Holdings Limited (‘HITHL’) group including its trading subsidiary Tricomm Housing 
Limited (‘THL’) from Invista Castle Limited.  

The main reason for the acquisition was reflective of Grainger’s strategy to diversify its assets into selective areas of value or growth. 
THL owns a high quality portfolio of 317 freehold houses in five separate locations around the Bristol and Portsmouth areas and the assets 
are high yielding. The houses are let under a long-term lease arrangement with the Secretary of State for Defence until 2028 providing 
a consistent revenue stream. 

The fair value at acquisition of the total consideration transferred amounted to £6.8m. 

The acquisition has been treated as a business combination and resulted in a gain on acquisition of £14.9m. This gain on acquisition arose 
due to it being a bargain purchase reflecting the particular situation of the vendors and their requirement to dispose of HITHL quickly. 

The identifiable assets and liabilities acquired were as follows: 

Assets 

Investment Property 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Trade and other receivables 

Deferred tax assets 

Liabilities 

to the joint venture and the bank.  

40 Rights issue 

capital by £13.9m.  

joint venture interest. Should the value of the site, together with any compensation received, be insufficient to repay the bank loan 

Interest bearing loans and borrowings 

Trade and other payables 

Deferred tax liabilities 

Loan notes payable 

In December 2009 the company completed a two for one rights issue at an issue price of 90p per share raising a total gross amount 

Amounts payable to Invista Castle Limited 

of £249.8m, net of costs £236.7m. The rights issue increased the number of share in issue by 277,553,406 shares, increasing share 

Derivative Financial Instruments 

The group took advantage of section 612 of the Companies Act 2006 to take proceeds in excess of the nominal value of shares issued, 

Net assets acquired 

amounting to £235.9m, to a merger reserve. Under a cash-box mechanism this amount has been subsequently transferred to retained 

earnings. Costs of issue which totalled £13.1m have been taken directly to reserves.  

Fair value of consideration paid 

Gain on acquisition 

£m

105.4

5.4

0.8

2.3

113.9

67.6

2.1

2.2

9.5

2.2

8.6

92.2

21.7

6.8

14.9

Investment property acquired of £105.4m represents its fair value. For the acquired trade and other receivables the above values represent 
the fair values. They are the expected amounts receivable and, at the acquisition date, there are no amounts not expected to be collected. 
Trade and other payables primarily represent amounts payable for bank interest, corporation tax and VAT. There was no contingent 
consideration and there are no contingent liabilities that have not been recognised. 

In addition to the consideration of £6.8m for the share capital of HITHL, Grainger settled on acquisition the amount of £2.2m payable to 
Invista Castle Limited by the HITHL group and Grainger also acquired a loan note receivable plus accrued interest thereon totalling £9.5m 
from Invista Castle Limited. The loan note payable was part of the liabilities acquired as shown in the above table. All three amounts 
together made up the total consideration of £18.5m which was paid in cash. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

142

Notes to the financial statements continued 

41 Acquisitions in the year continued 
The post acquisition revenue and profit before tax included in the group’s consolidated income statement for year to 30 September 2011 
were £5.9m and £2.0m respectively. 

ii) Acquisition of 50% equity in Grainger GenInvest LLP’s  
On 22nd March, Grainger acquired the 50% interest of Genesis Housing Group in the two Grainger GenInvest LLP’s thereby becoming 
the sole owner of both entities.  

The main reason for the acquisition is as part of Grainger’s strategy to diversify its assets into selective areas of value or growth. The 
partnerships own c.1,650 properties in Central London where we believe there are good prospects for long term capital appreciation.  

The fair value at acquisition of the total consideration transferred amounted to £15.0m and was paid in cash. This consideration was paid 
to acquire the remaining 50% equity in Grainger GenInvest LLP. No consideration was paid for the remaining 50% equity in Grainger 
GenInvest No. 2 (2006) LLP. The acquisition has been treated as a business combination and resulted in a gain on acquisition of Grainger 
GenInvest LLP of £1.2m. This gain on acquisition arose due to it being a bargain purchase and reflected the particular situation 
of the vendor and the requirement to re-finance the debt in the two LLP’s. 

The identifiable assets and liabilities acquired were as follows: 

Assets 

Investment Property 

Trading Property 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Liabilities 

Interest bearing loans and borrowings 

Trade and other payables 

Interest bearing loans due to Grainger 

Net assets acquired 

50% of net assets acquired 

Fair value of consideration paid 

Gain on acquisition 

£m

102.4

186.9

5.0

294.3

187.0

2.7

72.2

261.9

32.4

16.2

15.0

1.2

Investment and trading property acquired of £289.3m in aggregate, represents its fair value.  

Trade and other payables primarily represent amounts payable to external suppliers and for bank interest. 

There was no contingent consideration and there are no contingent liabilities that have not been recognised. 

The post acquisition revenue and profit before tax included in the group’s consolidated income statement for year to 30 September 2011 
were £6.6m and £4.6m respectively. 

 
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

The post acquisition revenue and profit before tax included in the group’s consolidated income statement for year to 30 September 2011 

41 Acquisitions in the year continued 

were £5.9m and £2.0m respectively. 

ii) Acquisition of 50% equity in Grainger GenInvest LLP’s  

the sole owner of both entities.  

On 22nd March, Grainger acquired the 50% interest of Genesis Housing Group in the two Grainger GenInvest LLP’s thereby becoming 

The main reason for the acquisition is as part of Grainger’s strategy to diversify its assets into selective areas of value or growth. The 

partnerships own c.1,650 properties in Central London where we believe there are good prospects for long term capital appreciation.  

The fair value at acquisition of the total consideration transferred amounted to £15.0m and was paid in cash. This consideration was paid 

to acquire the remaining 50% equity in Grainger GenInvest LLP. No consideration was paid for the remaining 50% equity in Grainger 

GenInvest No. 2 (2006) LLP. The acquisition has been treated as a business combination and resulted in a gain on acquisition of Grainger 

GenInvest LLP of £1.2m. This gain on acquisition arose due to it being a bargain purchase and reflected the particular situation 

of the vendor and the requirement to re-finance the debt in the two LLP’s. 

The identifiable assets and liabilities acquired were as follows: 

Assets 

Investment Property 

Trading Property 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Liabilities 

Interest bearing loans and borrowings 

Trade and other payables 

Interest bearing loans due to Grainger 

Net assets acquired 

50% of net assets acquired 

Fair value of consideration paid 

Gain on acquisition 

£m

102.4

186.9

5.0

294.3

187.0

2.7

72.2

261.9

32.4

16.2

15.0

1.2

Investment and trading property acquired of £289.3m in aggregate, represents its fair value.  

Trade and other payables primarily represent amounts payable to external suppliers and for bank interest. 

There was no contingent consideration and there are no contingent liabilities that have not been recognised. 

The post acquisition revenue and profit before tax included in the group’s consolidated income statement for year to 30 September 2011 

were £6.6m and £4.6m respectively. 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

143

iii) Pro forma full year information 
We have set out below a pro forma summary presenting the group as if both of the above acquisitions had taken place on 1 October 
2010 instead of the actual acquisition dates. The pro forma figures for group revenue and group profit before tax include the additional 
net rent from the acquired entities, assume that the refinancing of Grainger GenInvest took place on 1 October 2010 rather than 
on acquisition on 22 March 2011 and also assume that the gains on acquisition were the same as shown above despite the earlier 
assumed acquisition date. The pro forma information is provided for comparative purposes only and does not necessarily reflect the 
actual results that would have occurred. 

Revenue 

Profit before tax 

£m

304.6

28.3

42 Acquisitions in the prior year 
i) Acquisition of PHA Limited  
On 31 March 2010 the group acquired 100% of the equity in PHA Limited, a company which owned 162 residential properties located 
in Devon. The total consideration for the purchase was £15.4m paid in cash. The acquisition was treated as a business combination and 
goodwill of £0.4m arose reflecting the discount obtained against the potential contingent tax inherent in the portfolio. There has been 
no impairment of goodwill in the period since acquisition. 

The identifiable assets and liabilities acquired were as follows: 

Assets 

Inventories – trading property 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Other current assets 

Liabilities 

Corporation tax 

Deferred tax 

Other current liabilities 

Net assets acquired 

Fair value of consideration paid 

Goodwill arising (see note 22) 

£m

17.2

0.4

0.1

17.7

0.2

2.4

0.1

2.7

15.0

15.4

0.4

The post acquisition revenue and profit of PHA Limited included within the group’s 2010 consolidated income statement was £0.5m 
and £0.3m respectively. Had the acquisition taken place on 1 October 2009, we estimate on a pro forma basis, that the revenue 
and profit of PHA Limited for the 12-month period from that date to be consolidated in the 2010 group accounts would have been 
£1.0m and £0.6m respectively. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

144

Notes to the financial statements continued 

42 Acquisitions in the prior year continued 
ii) Acquisition of Sovereign Reversions Limited (formerly Sovereign Reversions plc)  
On 9 August 2010 the group acquired Sovereign Reversions plc (‘Sovereign’) a company which specialises in equity release investment, 
advice, plan provision and plan administration. The Sovereign property portfolio on acquisition was valued at approximately £67.9m. 

Grainger Equity Release Limited (‘GERL’) paid £34.2m for 100% of the issued share capital of Sovereign (excluding acquisition costs). 
The fair value of assets and liabilities was £73.1m and £34.4m respectively. The fair value of net assets acquired was therefore £38.7m. 
The resulting gain on acquisition of £4.5m was credited to the 2010 income statement in line with IFRS 3 (Revised).  

The purchase was made with the subsequent intention of entering into a joint venture with Moorfield Real Estate Fund II Equity Release 
Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Moorfield Real Estate Fund II (‘Moorfield’). Moorfield is a UK-based real estate investor and 
Fund Manager. 

Subsequent to the 2010 Grainger year end, on 12 October 2010, GERL received a cash consideration of £17.5m from Moorfield for 
a 50% stake in Sovereign valued at £19.2m. The group provided for the resulting loss of £1.7m in its 2010 financial statements. 
In accordance with IFRS 5 all of the assets and liabilities of Sovereign at 30 September 2010 were classified as a disposal group held-for-
sale. This is because the disposal group met the two criteria set out in IFRS 5 of being available-for-sale in its present condition and the sale 
being highly probable. Included on the face of the 2010 consolidated statement of financial position are total assets of £70.7m and total 
liabilities of £34.1m relating to Sovereign. These balances comprised the following: 

Total assets 

Inventories – trading property 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Other current assets 

Total liabilities 

Bank loans 

Deferred tax 

Other current liabilities 

£m

66.5

3.1

1.1

70.7

28.2

4.9

1.0

34.1

A net gain of £2.8m, comprising the gain on acquisition of £4.5m and impairment loss of £1.7m were credited to the 2010 consolidated 
statement of comprehensive income and are shown in the segmental analysis in note 4 within the retirement solutions segment. 
The Sovereign assets and liabilities are shown as part of the retirement solutions segment in note 4. 

Following the formation of the joint venture on 12 October 2010 the remaining 50% interest in Sovereign is now shown within note 20 
of these financial statements. 

43 Post balance sheet events 
On 5 October 2011, the group signed an agreement for £50.3m of debt funding from Partnership Assurance provided through an 
innovative structure against certain of the group’s Retirement Solutions assets, non-recourse to the rest of the group. On 21 November 
2011 the group signed a further agreement with Partnership Assurance for an additional £28.6m of debt funding under similar terms to 
the initial £50.3m. These facilities are repayable on a property-by-property basis as the assets are sold on vacancy, with interest rolling up. 
In this way the facility exactly matches the cash flow characteristics of this part of the business, with an expected average maturity of 11 
years. These funds are being used to reduce the group’s core debt facilities.  

 
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements continued 

Independent auditors’ report on the parent  
company financial statements 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

145

42 Acquisitions in the prior year continued 

ii) Acquisition of Sovereign Reversions Limited (formerly Sovereign Reversions plc)  

On 9 August 2010 the group acquired Sovereign Reversions plc (‘Sovereign’) a company which specialises in equity release investment, 

advice, plan provision and plan administration. The Sovereign property portfolio on acquisition was valued at approximately £67.9m. 

Grainger Equity Release Limited (‘GERL’) paid £34.2m for 100% of the issued share capital of Sovereign (excluding acquisition costs). 

The fair value of assets and liabilities was £73.1m and £34.4m respectively. The fair value of net assets acquired was therefore £38.7m. 

The resulting gain on acquisition of £4.5m was credited to the 2010 income statement in line with IFRS 3 (Revised).  

The purchase was made with the subsequent intention of entering into a joint venture with Moorfield Real Estate Fund II Equity Release 

Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Moorfield Real Estate Fund II (‘Moorfield’). Moorfield is a UK-based real estate investor and 

Fund Manager. 

Subsequent to the 2010 Grainger year end, on 12 October 2010, GERL received a cash consideration of £17.5m from Moorfield for 

a 50% stake in Sovereign valued at £19.2m. The group provided for the resulting loss of £1.7m in its 2010 financial statements. 

In accordance with IFRS 5 all of the assets and liabilities of Sovereign at 30 September 2010 were classified as a disposal group held-for-

sale. This is because the disposal group met the two criteria set out in IFRS 5 of being available-for-sale in its present condition and the sale 

being highly probable. Included on the face of the 2010 consolidated statement of financial position are total assets of £70.7m and total 

liabilities of £34.1m relating to Sovereign. These balances comprised the following: 

Total assets 

Inventories – trading property 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Other current assets 

Total liabilities 

Bank loans 

Deferred tax 

Other current liabilities 

A net gain of £2.8m, comprising the gain on acquisition of £4.5m and impairment loss of £1.7m were credited to the 2010 consolidated 

statement of comprehensive income and are shown in the segmental analysis in note 4 within the retirement solutions segment. 

The Sovereign assets and liabilities are shown as part of the retirement solutions segment in note 4. 

Following the formation of the joint venture on 12 October 2010 the remaining 50% interest in Sovereign is now shown within note 20 

of these financial statements. 

43 Post balance sheet events 

On 5 October 2011, the group signed an agreement for £50.3m of debt funding from Partnership Assurance provided through an 

innovative structure against certain of the group’s Retirement Solutions assets, non-recourse to the rest of the group. On 21 November 

2011 the group signed a further agreement with Partnership Assurance for an additional £28.6m of debt funding under similar terms to 

the initial £50.3m. These facilities are repayable on a property-by-property basis as the assets are sold on vacancy, with interest rolling up. 

In this way the facility exactly matches the cash flow characteristics of this part of the business, with an expected average maturity of 11 

years. These funds are being used to reduce the group’s core debt facilities.  

£m

66.5

3.1

1.1

70.7

28.2

4.9

1.0

34.1

We have audited the parent company financial statements of 
Grainger plc for the year ended 30 September 2011 which 
comprise the parent company balance sheet and the related notes. 
The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their 
preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting 
Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting 
Practice). 

Respective responsibilities of directors and auditors  
As explained more fully in the directors’ responsibilities statement 
set out on page 58, the directors are responsible for the 
preparation of the parent company 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 parent company financial 
statements in accordance with applicable law and International 
Standards on Auditing (UK and 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. 

Scope of the audit of the financial statements 
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 parent 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. In addition, we read all 
the financial and non-financial information in the annual report 
to identify material inconsistencies with the audited financial 
statements. If we become aware of any apparent material 
misstatements or inconsistencies we consider the implications 
for our report. 

Opinion on financial statements  
In our opinion the parent company financial statements:  

  Give a true and fair view of the state of the company’s affairs 

as at 30 September 2011; 

  Have been properly prepared in accordance with United 
Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and  

  Have been prepared in accordance with the requirements 

of the Companies Act 2006.  

Opinion on other matters prescribed by the 
Companies Act 2006  
In our opinion:  

  The part of the directors’ remuneration report to be audited has 
been properly prepared in accordance with the Companies Act 
2006; and  

  The information given in the directors’ report for the financial 
year for which the parent company financial statements are 
prepared is consistent with the parent company financial 
statements.  

Matters on which we are required to report by exception  
We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters 
where the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, 
in our opinion:  

  Adequate accounting records have not been kept by the parent 

company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been 
received from branches not visited by us; or  

  The parent company financial statements and the part of the 

directors’ remuneration report to be audited are not in 
agreement with the accounting records and returns; or  

  Certain disclosures of directors’ remuneration specified by law 

are not made; or  

  We have not received all the information and explanations 

we require for our audit.  

Other matter  
We have reported separately on the group financial statements 
of Grainger plc for the year ended 30 September 2011.  

Bowker Andrews (Senior Statutory Auditor) 
for and on behalf of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP 
Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditors 
Newcastle upon Tyne 

5 December 2011 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

146

Parent company balance sheet 

As at 30 September 2011 

Fixed assets 

Investments 

Current assets 

Investment in associates 

Trade and other receivables 

Cash at bank and in hand 

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 

Net current (liabilities)/assets 

Total assets less current liabilities 

Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year 

Convertible bond 

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 

Net assets 

EQUITY 

Capital and reserves  

Called-up equity share capital 

Share premium 

Capital redemption reserve  

Equity component of convertible bond 

Profit and loss account 

Total shareholders’ funds 

Notes

2

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

8

8

8

2011 
£m 

806.4 

806.4 

– 

11.4 

33.1 

44.5 

218.5 

(174.0) 

632.4 

22.5 

98.9 

511.0 

20.8 

109.8 

0.3 

5.0 

375.1 

511.0 

2010
£m

348.2

348.2

0.1

130.2

48.9

179.2

14.5

164.7

512.9

21.6

–

491.3

20.8

109.8

0.3

5.0

355.4

491.3

The financial statements on pages 146 to 152 were approved by the board of directors on 5 December 2011 and were signed on their 
behalf by: 

Andrew R Cunningham 
Director 

Mark Greenwood  
Director 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Parent company balance sheet 

Notes to the parent company  
financial statements 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

147

As at 30 September 2011 

Fixed assets 

Investments 

Current assets 

Investment in associates 

Trade and other receivables 

Cash at bank and in hand 

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 

Net current (liabilities)/assets 

Total assets less current liabilities 

Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year 

Convertible bond 

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 

Net assets 

EQUITY 

Capital and reserves  

Called-up equity share capital 

Share premium 

Capital redemption reserve  

Equity component of convertible bond 

Profit and loss account 

Total shareholders’ funds 

behalf by: 

Andrew R Cunningham 

Mark Greenwood  

Director 

Director 

Notes

2

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

8

8

8

2011 

£m 

806.4 

806.4 

– 

11.4 

33.1 

44.5 

218.5 

(174.0) 

632.4 

22.5 

98.9 

511.0 

20.8 

109.8 

0.3 

5.0 

375.1 

511.0 

2010

£m

348.2

348.2

0.1

130.2

48.9

179.2

14.5

164.7

512.9

21.6

–

491.3

20.8

109.8

0.3

5.0

355.4

491.3

1 Accounting policies 
(a) Basis of preparation 
The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis in accordance with the historical cost, in accordance with the 
Companies Act 2006 and applicable UK accounting standards. 

The company has taken the exemption allowed under section 408 of the Companies Act 2006 from the requirement to present its own 
profit and loss account. The profit for the year was £25.4m (2010: £0.9m). On an historical cost basis the profit for the year would have 
been £25.4m (2010: £0.9m). These financial statements present information about the company as an individual undertaking and not 
about its group. 

The company has taken advantage of the exemption in FRS 8 ‘Related Party Transactions’, from the requirement to disclose such 
transactions on the grounds that it has presented its own consolidated financial statements. 

(b) Accounting policies 
The company financial statements have been prepared under UK GAAP rather than under IFRS which has been adopted for group 
reporting. The following accounting policies have been applied consistently in dealing with items which are considered material in relation 
to the company’s financial statements. 

(c) Investment in subsidiaries 
Investments in subsidiaries are carried at historical cost less provision for impairment based upon an assessment of the net recoverable 
amount of each investment. To the extent that the assessment of recoverable amount improves impairment provisions are reversed.  

(d) Investment in joint ventures and associates 
Investments in joint ventures and associates are accounted for by the equity method of accounting and are initially recognised at cost. 
The company’s share of its joint ventures’ and associates’ post-acquisition profits or losses is recognised in the profit and loss account, 
and the 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.  

(e) Taxation 
Corporation tax is provided on taxable profits or losses at the current rate. 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities arise from timing differences between the recognition of gains and losses in the accounts and their 
recognition in a tax computation. 

In accordance with FRS 19 ‘Deferred Tax’, deferred tax is provided in respect of all timing differences that have originated, but not 
reversed, at the balance sheet date that may give rise to an obligation to pay more or less tax in future. Deferred tax is measured on 
a non-discounted basis. 

(f) Own shares including treasury shares 
Transactions of The Grainger Trust Employee Trustee Company Limited and The Grainger Employee Benefit Trusts are included in the 
company’s financial statements. The purchase of shares in the company by each trust and any treasury shares bought back by the 
company are debited direct to equity. 

(g) Convertible bond 
The £112m 3.625% convertible bond due 2014 was issued in May 2007. Interest is payable semi-annually. Unless previously redeemed, 
converted, purchased or cancelled the bond is convertible at any time up to 12 May 2014 into fully paid up ordinary shares at a conversion 
price of £4.68. The convertible bond is a compound financial instrument and the carrying amount has been allocated to its equity and 
liability components in the company’s balance sheet. The liability component has been determined by measuring the fair value of a similar 
liability that does not have an associated equity component. The discount rate used for this was based on a rate of 7.5% compounded 
semi-annually. The liability component has been deducted from the fair value of the compound financial instrument as a whole and the 
residual element has been assigned to the equity component. The liability element is subsequently measured at amortised cost using the 
effective interest rate method. 

The financial statements on pages 146 to 152 were approved by the board of directors on 5 December 2011 and were signed on their 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

148

Notes to the parent company financial statements continued 

1 Accounting policies continued 
(h) Share-based payments 
Under the share-based compensation arrangements set out in note 1(l)(iii) on page 75 and note 32 on pages 133 to 135, employees of 
Grainger Employees Limited have been awarded options and conditional shares in the company. These share-based arrangements have 
been treated as equity-settled in the consolidated financial statements. In the company accounts the share-based payment charge has 
been added to the cost of investment in subsidiaries with a corresponding adjustment to equity.  

2 Investments 

Valuation 

At 1 October 2010 

Additions 

Disposals 

Impairment write-back 

At 30 September 2011 

Investment in 
Schroder  
Residential  
Property Unit 
Trust  
£m 

0.1 

– 

(0.1) 

– 

– 

Investment in 
subsidiaries 
£m

348.2

438.6

–

19.6

806.4

Total 
£m

348.3

438.6

(0.1)

19.6

806.4

In January 2009 the investors in Schroder ResPUT agreed to a controlled liquidation of the fund. The liquidation was completed by 
31 March 2011 and the group’s investment fully repaid.  

The additions in the year relate primarily to a further investment of £160.0m in Grainger Finance Company Limited, an investment of 
£103.0m in Grainger Europe (No. 2) Limited, £91.0m in Bromley Property Holdings Limited, £42.9m in Atlantic Metropolitan (UK) Limited 
and £29.5m relates to an investment in Reversions Financing Limited. The balance of £12.2m comprises other smaller investments in 
group subsidiaries.  

The investments made by the parent company have in most instances been passed down the group in order to facilitate the acquisitions 
made during the year (see note 41).  

The additions also include a capital contribution during the year of £2.0m in respect of share-based payment awards granted to subsidiary 
employees.  

After an assessment of net recoverable value there has been a net reversal of impairment provisions, made in prior years, of £19.6m. 

A list of the principal subsidiaries of the company is given in note 35 on page 137. 

 
Notes to the parent company financial statements continued 

1 Accounting policies continued 

(h) Share-based payments 

Under the share-based compensation arrangements set out in note 1(l)(iii) on page 75 and note 32 on pages 133 to 135, employees of 

Grainger Employees Limited have been awarded options and conditional shares in the company. These share-based arrangements have 

been treated as equity-settled in the consolidated financial statements. In the company accounts the share-based payment charge has 

been added to the cost of investment in subsidiaries with a corresponding adjustment to equity.  

3 Trade and other receivables 

Amounts owed by group undertakings 

Other receivables 

Investment in 

Schroder  

Residential  

Property Unit 

Trust  

£m 

0.1 

(0.1) 

– 

– 

– 

Investment in 

subsidiaries 

£m

348.2

438.6

–

19.6

806.4

Total 

£m

348.3

438.6

(0.1)

19.6

806.4

Receivables in both 2011 and 2010 are all due within one year. 

4 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 

Amounts owed to group undertakings 

Other taxation and social security 

Accruals and deferred income 

5 Convertible bond 

Opening balance 

Amortised during the year 

Unamortised issue costs 

Liability component at 30 September 2010 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

149

2011 
£m 

11.2 

0.2 

11.4 

2011 
£m 
216.2 

1.1 

1.2 

218.5 

2011 
£m 
21.9 

0.8 

22.7 

(0.2) 

22.5 

2010
£m

130.1

0.1

130.2

2010
£m
12.6

1.0

0.9

14.5

2010
£m
21.3

0.6

21.9

(0.3)

21.6

After an assessment of net recoverable value there has been a net reversal of impairment provisions, made in prior years, of £19.6m. 

A list of the principal subsidiaries of the company is given in note 35 on page 137. 

Variable rate – Pounds Sterling 

2011 
£m 
98.9 

2010
£m
–

The variable rate loan from M & G UK Companies Financing Fund LP is secured by floating charges over the assets of the group. The loan 
bears interest at 4% over LIBOR. 

As part of the early conversion in November 2008, holders representing £87.1m of the £112m 2014 convertible bond accepted a cash 
payment of £35,000 per £100,000 nominal bond value to convert early.  

6 Interest-bearing loans and borrowings  

2 Investments 

Valuation 

At 1 October 2010 

Additions 

Disposals 

Impairment write-back 

At 30 September 2011 

In January 2009 the investors in Schroder ResPUT agreed to a controlled liquidation of the fund. The liquidation was completed by 

31 March 2011 and the group’s investment fully repaid.  

The additions in the year relate primarily to a further investment of £160.0m in Grainger Finance Company Limited, an investment of 

£103.0m in Grainger Europe (No. 2) Limited, £91.0m in Bromley Property Holdings Limited, £42.9m in Atlantic Metropolitan (UK) Limited 

and £29.5m relates to an investment in Reversions Financing Limited. The balance of £12.2m comprises other smaller investments in 

The investments made by the parent company have in most instances been passed down the group in order to facilitate the acquisitions 

The additions also include a capital contribution during the year of £2.0m in respect of share-based payment awards granted to subsidiary 

group subsidiaries.  

made during the year (see note 41).  

employees.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

150

Notes to the parent company financial statements continued 

7 Share capital 

Authorised 

500,000,000 (2010: 500,000,000) ordinary shares of 5p each 

Allotted, called-up and fully paid 

416,372,103 (2010: 416,362,420) ordinary shares of 5p each 

2011 
£m 

25.0 

20.8 

2010
£m

25.0

20.8

The group paid £0.6m to the share incentive plan during the year for the purchase of matching shares and free shares in the scheme. 
In addition, the group returned £2.2m to shareholders by way of a tender offer for shares during the year. The total cost of acquiring our 
shares of £2.8m (2010: £4.5m) has been deducted from retained earnings within shareholders’ equity (see note 8).  

As at 30 September 2011, share capital included nil (2010: 46,803) shares held by The Grainger Trust Employee Trustee Company Limited, 
5,833,401 (2010: 5,976,623) shares held by The Grainger Employee Benefit Trusts and 1,506,300 (2010: 21,410) shares held by Grainger 
plc as treasury shares. The total of these shares is 7,339,701 (2010: 6,044,836) with a nominal value of £366,985 (2010: £302,242) and 
a market value as at 30 September 2011 of £6.4m (2010: £6.6m).  

Movements in issued share capital during the year and the previous year were as follows: 

At 1 October 2009 

Issue of shares under the rights issue 

Options exercised under the SAYE scheme 

At 30 September 20010 

Options exercised under the SAYE scheme 

At 30 September 2011 

Details of share options granted by the company are provided in note 31 on page 132. 

Number 

138,798,113 

277,553,406 

10,901 

Nominal
value 
£’000

6,940

13,878

–

416,362,420 

20,818

9,683 

–

416,372,103 

20,818

8 Reserves 

At 1 October 2010 

Retained profit for the year 

Share-based payment charge 

Purchase of own shares 

Dividends paid 

At 30 September 2011 

Share 
premium 
£m

109.8

–

–

–

–

Capital 
redemption 
reserve 
£m

Equity 
component  
of convertible 
bond  
£m 

0.3

5.0 

–

–

–

–

– 

– 

– 

– 

Profit and 
loss account 
£m

355.4

25.4

2.0

(2.8)

(4.9)

109.8

0.3

5.0 

375.1

 
 
 
 
Notes to the parent company financial statements continued 

7 Share capital 

Authorised 

500,000,000 (2010: 500,000,000) ordinary shares of 5p each 

Allotted, called-up and fully paid 

416,372,103 (2010: 416,362,420) ordinary shares of 5p each 

2011 

£m 

25.0 

20.8 

2010

£m

25.0

20.8

9 Other information 
Post balance sheet event 
There are no post balance sheet events requiring disclosure in these financial statements. 

Dividends 
Information on dividends paid and declared is given in note 15 on page 100. 

Directors’ share options and share awards 
Details of the directors’ share options and of their share awards are set out below.  

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

151

Directors’ share options 
Ordinary shares (thousands) 

Dates exercisable 

Non-performance-related  
(available to all staff) 

SAYE Scheme 

1 February 2012 to 31 July 
2012 

1 February 2014 to 31 July 
2014 

Performance-related  
(conditional awards) 

HMRC Approved Executive 
Share Option Scheme 

26 November 2013 to  
26 November 2020 

Andrew Cunningham 

Peter Couch 

Nick Jopling 

Mark Greenwood 

Total 

Exercise 
price

30 Sept  
2011 

30 Sept 
2010

30 Sept 
2011

30 Sept 
2010

30 Sept 
2011

30 Sept 
2010

30 Sept 
2011 

30 Sept 
2010   

30 Sept 
2011 

30 Sept 
2010

37.7p

37.7p

– 

44 

–

44

25

25

–

–

–

–

94.4p

32 

76 

–

44

32

57

–

25

32

32

–

–

–

–

– 

– 

–  

–  

25 

44 

25

44

32 

32 

–  

–  

128 

197 

–

69

Details of share options granted by the company are provided in note 31 on page 132. 

The market price of the company’s shares at the end of the financial year was 86.6p, and the range of the closing mid-market prices 
during the year was 86p to 133p. 

The group paid £0.6m to the share incentive plan during the year for the purchase of matching shares and free shares in the scheme. 

In addition, the group returned £2.2m to shareholders by way of a tender offer for shares during the year. The total cost of acquiring our 

shares of £2.8m (2010: £4.5m) has been deducted from retained earnings within shareholders’ equity (see note 8).  

As at 30 September 2011, share capital included nil (2010: 46,803) shares held by The Grainger Trust Employee Trustee Company Limited, 

5,833,401 (2010: 5,976,623) shares held by The Grainger Employee Benefit Trusts and 1,506,300 (2010: 21,410) shares held by Grainger 

plc as treasury shares. The total of these shares is 7,339,701 (2010: 6,044,836) with a nominal value of £366,985 (2010: £302,242) and 

a market value as at 30 September 2011 of £6.4m (2010: £6.6m).  

Movements in issued share capital during the year and the previous year were as follows: 

At 1 October 2009 

Issue of shares under the rights issue 

Options exercised under the SAYE scheme 

At 30 September 20010 

Options exercised under the SAYE scheme 

At 30 September 2011 

8 Reserves 

At 1 October 2010 

Retained profit for the year 

Share-based payment charge 

Purchase of own shares 

Dividends paid 

At 30 September 2011 

Nominal

value 

£’000

6,940

13,878

–

–

Number 

138,798,113 

277,553,406 

10,901 

9,683 

416,362,420 

20,818

416,372,103 

20,818

Capital 

component  

redemption 

of convertible 

Share 

premium 

£m

109.8

–

–

–

–

reserve 

£m

0.3

–

–

–

–

Equity 

bond  

£m 

5.0 

– 

– 

– 

– 

Profit and 

loss account 

£m

355.4

25.4

2.0

(2.8)

(4.9)

109.8

0.3

5.0 

375.1

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
Grainger plc

152

Notes to the parent company financial statements continued 

9 Other information continued 
Directors’ share awards 
Ordinary shares of 5p each 
(thousands) 

  Andrew Cunningham 

Peter Couch 

Nick Jopling 

Mark 
Greenwood 

Total 

Award 
date

Earliest 
vesting 
date 

30 Sept 
2011 

30 Sept 
2010

30 Sept 
2011

30 Sept 
2010

30 Sept 
2011

30 Sept 
2010

30 Sept 
2011 

30 Sept 
2010   

30 Sept 
2011 

30 Sept 
2010

Non-performance-related –  
miscellaneous  

i 

12 Dec 
2007

12 Dec 
2010 

Non-performance-related –  
deferred bonus plan  

ii 

3 Feb 
2010

3 Feb 
2011 

– 

– 

–

–

–

90

26

90

Performance-related  
(conditional awards) 

Long-term incentive 
scheme 

2007 Scheme (lapsed) 

2008 Scheme 

2009 Scheme 

2009 Scheme 

2010 Scheme 

9 Jan 
2008

9 Jan 
2011 

iii

23 Dec 
2008

23 Dec 
2011 

9 Dec 
2009

29 Sept 
2010

9 Dec 
2012 

9 Dec 
2012 

26 Nov 
2010

26 Nov 
2013 

Matching awards (conditional)   

2007 Scheme (lapsed) 

2008 Scheme 

2009 Scheme 

2009 Scheme 

2010 Scheme 

9 Jan 
2008

9 Jan 
2011 

iii

23 Dec 
2008

23 Dec 
2011 

9 Dec 
2009

29 Sept 
2010

9 Dec 
2012 

9 Dec 
2012 

26 Nov 
2010

26 Nov 
2013 

– 

284

–

153

779 

779

429

429

481 

481

– 

667 

–

–

–

–

281

– 

56

–

156 

156

86

96 

96

– 

133 

–

–

2,312  1,852

–

–

84

970

–

–

–

31

86

–

–

–

815

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–  

–  

–  

– 

90 

– 

– 

– 

26

90

–

–

437

–   1,208  1,208

–  

481 

481

283

283

230 

230  

513 

513

275 

–   1,567 

– 

– 

–  

344

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

– 

– 

– 

–  

242 

242

–  

96 

23

23

10 

10  

33 

39

689

–

10 

–  

266 

306

525 

240   4,496  3,213

–

–

87

96

33

–

i  This award vested on 12 December 2010. The share price at the vesting date was 106.7p. 

ii These shares were awarded to Peter Couch before his appointment as a director of the Company. 

iii Performance conditions for the conditional share awards set to vest on 9 January 2011 were not met and therefore lapsed on that date. 

Audit fees 
The audit fee for the year was £8,000 (2010: £8,000). 

 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

153

Five-year record for the year 
ended 30 September 2011 

Revenue 

Gross rental income 

Gross proceeds from property sales  

Operating profit before valuation and non-recurring 
items (OPBVM) 

Profit/(loss) before taxation 

Profit/(loss) after taxation  

Dividends taken to equity 

Earnings/(loss) per share 

Dividends per share 

Gross net asset value per share  

Triple net asset value per share 

Share price at 30 September 

Return on capital employed  

Return on shareholder equity 

2007
£m

229.3

52.7

180.8

89.0

77.5

60.9

7.6

Pence 

15.0

2.0

Pence

320.7

252.6

255.3

%

12.1

27.1

2008
£m

246.2

70.7

169.6

106.0

(112.1)

(77.4)

8.3

Pence 

(19.1)

2.0

Pence

227.9

180.7

114.1

%

(11.4)

(36.1)

IFRS 

2009 
£m 

302.2 

77.9 

207.2 

78.8 

(170.0) 

(122.0) 

5.2 

Pence  

(29.5) 

1.3 

Pence 

194.0 

141.0 

170.0 

% 

(4.3) 

(33.7) 

2010 
£m 

244.5 

75.6 

160.9 

94.2 

(20.8) 

(10.8) 

7.4 

Pence  

(2.9) 

1.7 

Pence 

199.8 

139.7 

109.8 

% 

5.3 

0.6 

2011
£m

296.2

86.3

211.9

126.2

26.1

39.1

4.9

Pence 

9.5

1.8

Pence

216.2

153.3

86.6

%

6.5

11.1

Where relevant adjustment has been made to historical figures to reflect the impact of the rights issue in December 2009.  

Notes to the parent company financial statements continued 

2007 Scheme (lapsed) 

– 

284

–

153

–  

437

9 Other information continued 

Directors’ share awards 

Ordinary shares of 5p each 

(thousands) 

  Andrew Cunningham 

Peter Couch 

Nick Jopling 

Greenwood 

Total 

Mark 

Award 

date

Earliest 

vesting 

date 

30 Sept 

30 Sept 

30 Sept 

30 Sept 

30 Sept 

30 Sept 

30 Sept 

30 Sept 

30 Sept 

30 Sept 

2011 

2010

2011

2010

2011

2010

2011 

2010   

2011 

2010

Non-performance-related –  

12 Dec 

12 Dec 

miscellaneous  

i 

2007

2010 

Non-performance-related –  

3 Feb 

deferred bonus plan  

ii 

2010

3 Feb 

2011 

– 

– 

–

90

26

90

Performance-related  

(conditional awards) 

Long-term incentive 

scheme 

2008 Scheme 

2009 Scheme 

2009 Scheme 

2010 Scheme 

2008 Scheme 

2009 Scheme 

2009 Scheme 

2010 Scheme 

9 Jan 

2008

9 Jan 

2011 

iii

23 Dec 

23 Dec 

2008

2011 

9 Dec 

2009

29 Sept 

2010

9 Dec 

2012 

9 Dec 

2012 

26 Nov 

26 Nov 

2010

2013 

9 Jan 

2008

9 Jan 

2011 

iii

23 Dec 

23 Dec 

2008

2011 

9 Dec 

2009

29 Sept 

2010

9 Dec 

2012 

9 Dec 

2012 

26 Nov 

26 Nov 

2010

2013 

– 

667 

– 

133 

Matching awards (conditional)   

2007 Scheme (lapsed) 

– 

56

–

–

–

–

–

–

779 

779

429

429

–   1,208  1,208

481 

481

–  

481 

481

283

283

230 

230  

513 

513

281

344

275 

–   1,567 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–  

–  

– 

90 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–  

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

26

90

–

–

–

–

87

96

33

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

31

86

156 

156

86

–  

242 

242

96 

96

–  

96 

23

23

10 

10  

33 

2,312  1,852

815

306

525 

240   4,496  3,213

84

970

39

689

10 

–  

266 

i  This award vested on 12 December 2010. The share price at the vesting date was 106.7p. 

ii These shares were awarded to Peter Couch before his appointment as a director of the Company. 

iii Performance conditions for the conditional share awards set to vest on 9 January 2011 were not met and therefore lapsed on that date. 

Audit fees 

The audit fee for the year was £8,000 (2010: £8,000). 

 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

154

Shareholders’ information 

Financial calendar 
Annual General Meeting  

Payment of 2011 final dividend  

8 February 2012

10 February 2012

Announcement of 2012 interim results  

May 2012

Announcement of 2012 final results  

November 2012

Share price 
During the year ended 30 September 2011, the range of the 
closing mid-market prices of the company’s ordinary shares were: 

Price at 30 September 2011 

Lowest price during the year 

Highest price during the year 

87p

86p

133p

Daily information on the company’s share price can be obtained on 
our website or by telephoning: The Financial Times Cityline Service 
on 09068 432 750. 

Capital gains tax 
The market value of the company’s shares for capital gains tax 
purposes at 31 March 1982 was 2.03p. 

Website 
Website address www.graingerplc.co.uk 

Shareholders’ enquiries 
All administrative enquiries relating to shareholdings (for example, 
notification of change of address, loss of share certificates, 
dividend payments) should be addressed to the company’s 
registrar at: 

Capita IRG Plc 
Northern House 
Woodsome Park 
Fenay Bridge 
Huddersfield 
West Yorkshire 
HD8 0LA 

Share dealing service 
A share dealing service is available to existing shareholders to buy 
or sell the company’s shares via Capita Share Dealing Services. 
Online and telephone dealing facilities provide an easy to access 
and simple to use service. 

For further information on this service, or to buy or sell shares, 
please contact: 

www.capitadeal.com – online dealing 

0870 458 4577 – telephone dealing 

Please note that the directors of the company are not seeking to 
encourage shareholders to either buy or sell their shares. 
Shareholders in any doubt as to what action to take are 
recommended to seek financial advice from an independent 
financial adviser authorised by the Financial Services and Markets 
Act 2000. 

Company secretary and registered office 
Michael Windle  
Citygate 
St James’ Boulevard 
Newcastle upon Tyne 
NE1 4JE 

Company registration number 125575 

 
 
Shareholders’ information 

Financial calendar 

Annual General Meeting  

Payment of 2011 final dividend  

Share dealing service 

8 February 2012

10 February 2012

A share dealing service is available to existing shareholders to buy 

or sell the company’s shares via Capita Share Dealing Services. 

Online and telephone dealing facilities provide an easy to access 

Announcement of 2012 interim results  

May 2012

and simple to use service. 

Announcement of 2012 final results  

November 2012

For further information on this service, or to buy or sell shares, 

Share price 

During the year ended 30 September 2011, the range of the 

closing mid-market prices of the company’s ordinary shares were: 

please contact: 

www.capitadeal.com – online dealing 

0870 458 4577 – telephone dealing 

87p

86p

133p

Please note that the directors of the company are not seeking to 

encourage shareholders to either buy or sell their shares. 

Shareholders in any doubt as to what action to take are 

recommended to seek financial advice from an independent 

Daily information on the company’s share price can be obtained on 

financial adviser authorised by the Financial Services and Markets 

our website or by telephoning: The Financial Times Cityline Service 

Act 2000. 

Price at 30 September 2011 

Lowest price during the year 

Highest price during the year 

on 09068 432 750. 

Capital gains tax 

The market value of the company’s shares for capital gains tax 

purposes at 31 March 1982 was 2.03p. 

Website 

Website address www.graingerplc.co.uk 

Shareholders’ enquiries 

All administrative enquiries relating to shareholdings (for example, 

notification of change of address, loss of share certificates, 

dividend payments) should be addressed to the company’s 

Company secretary and registered office 

Michael Windle  

Citygate 

St James’ Boulevard 

Newcastle upon Tyne 

NE1 4JE 

Company registration number 125575 

Advisers 

Solicitors 
Dickinson Dees 
St Ann’s Wharf 
112 Quayside 
Newcastle upon Tyne 
NE1 3DX 

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer 
65 Fleet Street 
London 
EC4Y 1HS 

DWF 
West 1 
Wellington Street 
Leeds 
LS1 1BA 

Financial public relations 
FTI Consulting  
Holborn Gate 
26 Southampton Buildings 
London 
WC2A 1PB 

registrar at: 

Capita IRG Plc 

Northern House 

Woodsome Park 

Fenay Bridge 

Huddersfield 

West Yorkshire 

HD8 0LA 

Annual report and accounts 2011

 Overview

 Business review

 Governance

Financials

155

Independent auditors 
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP 
89 Sandyford Road 
Newcastle upon Tyne  
NE1 8HW 

Stockbrokers 
JP Morgan Cazenove Limited 
20 Moorgate 
London 
EC2R 6DA 

Brewin Dolphin Securities 
Times Central 
Gallowgate 
Newcastle upon Tyne 
NE1 4SR 

Registrars and transfer office 
Capita Registers plc 
Northern House 
Woodsome Park 
Fenay Bridge 
Huddersfield 
West Yorkshire 
HD8 0LA 

Banking 
Clearing Bank and Facility Agent 
Barclays Bank PLC 

Other bankers 
Lloyds TSB Bank plc 

The Royal Bank of Scotland plc 

Allied Irish Banks plc 

The Governor and Company of the 
Bank of Scotland 

National Australia Bank Limited 

Nationwide Building Society 

Eurohypo AG 

Deutsche Pfandbriefbank AG 

The Governor and Company of the 
Bank of Ireland 

GE Real Estate Finance Limited 

Svenska Handelsbanken AB 

SEB AG 

UniCredit Bank AG 

HSH Nordbank AG 

Sparkasse  

Bank of America N.A. 

HSBC Bank plc 

M&G UK Companies Financing Fund LP  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grainger plc

156

Glossary of terms 

Property  
Assured periodic tenancy (‘APT’) 
Market-rented tenancy arising from 
succession from regulated. Tenant has 
security of tenure.  

Assured shorthold tenancy (‘AST’) 
Market-rented tenancy where landlord 
may obtain possession if appropriate 
notice served. 

Financial 
Cap 
Financial instrument which, in return for 
a fee, guarantees an upper limit for the 
interest rate on a loan.  

Contingent tax 
The amount of tax that would be payable 
should assets be sold at the market value 
shown in the market value balance sheet. 

Assured tenancy (‘AT’) 
Market-rented tenancy where tenant has 
right to renew. 

Dividend cover 
Earnings per share divided by dividends 
per share. 

Investment value (‘IV’) or market value 
Open market value of a property subject 
to relevant tenancy in place. 

Home reversion 
Rent free tenancy where tenant has right 
of occupation until possession is forfeited 
(usually on death). If tenant retains an 
equity interest in the property this is a 
partial life tenancy.  

PRS 
Private rented sector. 

Regulated tenancy 
Tenancy regulated under 1977 Rent Act, 
rent (usually sub-market) set by rent officer 
and tenant has security of tenure. 

Tenanted residential (‘TR’) 
Activity covering the acquisition, renting 
out and subsequent sale (usually on 
vacancy) of residential units subject to a 
tenancy agreement. 

Earnings per share (‘EPS’) 
Profit after tax attributable to shareholders 
divided by the weighted average number 
of shares in issue in the year. 

Gearing 
The ratio of borrowings, net of cash, 
to market net asset value. 

Goodwill 
On acquisition of a company, the difference 
between the fair value of net assets 
acquired and the purchase price paid. 

Gross net asset value (‘NAV’) 
Shareholders’ funds adjusted for the 
market value of property assets held as 
stock but before deduction for deferred 
tax on property revaluations and before 
adjustments for the fair value of derivatives. 

Hedging 
The use of financial instruments to 
protect against interest rate movements. 

Vacant possession value (‘VP’) 
Open market value of a property free 
from any tenancy. 

Interest cover 
Profit on ordinary activities before interest 
and tax divided by net interest payable.  

Corporate 
IFRS 
International Financial Reporting Standards, 
mandatory for UK-listed companies for 
accounting periods ending on or after 
31 December 2005.  

Loan to value (‘LTV’) 
Ratio of net debt to the market value 
of properties.  

Net net net asset value (triple net or 
‘NNNAV’) 
Gross NAV adjusted for deferred tax and 
those contingent tax liabilities which 
would accrue if assets sold at market 
value and for the fair value of long-term 
debt and derivatives. 

Return on capital employed 
Operating profit after net valuation 
movements on investment properties 
plus share of results from joint venture/ 
associates plus the movement on the 
uplift of trading stock to market value 
as a percentage of opening gross capital 
defined as investment property, financial 
interest in property assets (CHARM), 
investment in joint venture/associates 
and trading stock at market value. 

Return on shareholders’ equity 
Growth in net net net asset value (‘NNNAV’) 
in the year plus the dividend per share 
relating to each year as a percentage of 
opening NNNAV. 

Swap 
Financial instrument to protect against 
interest rate movements. 

Total shareholder return (‘TSR’) 
Return attributable to shareholders 
on basis of share price growth with 
dividends reinvested. 

Weighted average cost of capital 
(‘WACC’) 
The weighted average cost of funding the 
group’s activities through a combination of 
shareholders’ funds and debt. 

 
Corporate addresses

Newcastle
Citygate
St James’ Boulevard
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE1 4JE
Tel: 0191 261 1819

London
161 Brompton Road
Knightsbridge
London
SW3 1QP
Tel: 020 7795 4700

Birmingham
Elm House
Edgbaston Park
351 Bristol Road
Birmingham
B5 7SW

Putney
1st Floor
SWISH Building
73-75 Upper Richmond Road
London
SW15 2SR

Manchester
St John’s House
Barrington Road
Altrincham
Cheshire
WA14 1TJ

Ipswich
42a Barrack Square
Martlesham Heath
Ipswich
Suffolk
IP5 3RF

Luxembourg
16 Avenue Pasteur
L-2310
Luxembourg

Germany
Weissfrauenstrasse 12-16
Entrance: Friedenstrasse 6-10
60311 Frankfurt am Main
Hesse
Germany

Malta
Verdala Business Centre
Level 2, TG Complex
Brewery Street
Mriehel
Malta

Designed and produced by Radley Yeldar  
www.ry.com

www.graingerplc.co.uk