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Greggs plc

grg.l · LSE Consumer Defensive
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Sector Consumer Defensive
Industry Grocery Stores
Employees 33146
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FY2021 Annual Report · Greggs plc
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COMING BACK 
STRONGER 
AND BETTER

GREGGS plc Annual Report & Accounts 2021

INTRODUCTION

EMERGING STRONGER 
AND BETTER 

In a second year dominated by disruption due to  
Covid, our teams once again coped magnificently  
with unprecedented and rapidly-changing conditions.  
We set out at the beginning of the year to show that  
we could not only cope with Covid, but emerge from  
this crisis both stronger and better as a business. 

Our results and achievements in 2021 show that we  
achieved both those ambitions, and I would like to  
take this opportunity to, once again, thank all of our  
teams across the country who rose so well to meet  
these challenges.

Roger Whiteside OBE, Chief Executive
8 March 2022

Strategic Report

2021 highlights 

At a glance 

Year in review 

Chair’s statement 

Business model 

Chief Executive’s report 

1

2

8

10

13 

14

Q&A with Roisin Currie, CEO Designate   20

Our strategy in action 

Key performance indicators 

The Greggs Pledge 

Task Force on Climate-related  
Financial Disclosures 

Our stakeholders 

Financial review 

Risk management 

Directors’ Report

Board of Directors and Secretary 

Governance report 

Audit Committee report 

Directors’ remuneration report 

24

34

36

38

45 

55 

59

64

68 

77

84

Statement of Directors’ responsibilities 107

Accounts

Independent auditor’s report 

Consolidated income statement 

Consolidated statement of 
comprehensive income 

Balance sheets 

Statements of changes in equity 

Statements of cashflows 

Notes to the consolidated accounts 

Ten-year history 

Alternative performance measures 

Secretary and advisers 

108

116

116

117

118

122

124

168

169

171 

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION 
THROUGHOUT THE BUSINESS 
We successfully launched our new website and Greggs 
App, including our enhanced loyalty proposition. 
Customers can now earn stamps and rewards  
across all of our menu categories, on both walk-in  
and Click + Collect purchases. Deployment of our  
new Customer Relationship Management capabilities 
will allow our teams to talk to our customers like never 
before and continue our journey to give additional  
and personalised services and offers across  
multiple channels.

Read more about our digital transformation on pages 28 and 29 

2021  HIGHLIGHTS

Operational highlights

NEW FIVE-YEAR 
GROWTH STRATEGY 
ANNOUNCED
In October, we set out our ambitious 
plan to double Greggs’ sales in the next 
five years. The fundamental strategic 
pillars of our business model have not 
changed but we have identified four key 
growth drivers, including 'Growing and 
developing the Greggs estate' which will 
become the focus of our plan to reach 
our full potential in the years ahead. 

Read more about our key growth drivers on 
pages 24 to 31  

THE GREGGS PLEDGE
Our sustainability plan, The Greggs Pledge,  
is about how we can do more to help people,  
protect the planet and work with our partners  
to change the world for the better. Our  
sustainability report, published alongside  
the annual report, is available to view now.

* Detailed calculations of Alternative Performance Measures, not otherwise shown in the accounts and related notes, 
are shown on pages 169 and 170

Financial highlights*

Total sales

£1,229.7m 

2020: £811.3m

Two-year like-for-like (LFL) sales 

-3.3% 

Pre-tax profit

£145.6m 

2020: £13.7m loss 

Diluted earnings per share

114.3p 

2020: loss per share of 12.9p

Total dividend 

42.0p 

2020: nil

Special dividend 

40.0p 

2020: £nil

Colleague profit-sharing 

£16.6m 

You can also 
read our annual 
report online at 
corporate.
greggs.co.uk/
investors

And read The 
Greggs Pledge 
at corporate.
greggs.co.uk/
responsibility

1

Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcAT A GLANCE

With ownership of our supply chain, multiple 
service channels for our customers and  
around 2,200 shops nationwide, we are in a 
unique position to make great tasting, freshly 
prepared food accessible to everyone. 
Throughout the pandemic, our teams have 
risen to the many challenges and worked 
tirelessly to provide our customers with 
great tasting food-on-the-go and the best 
experience, day in, day out. 

Our purpose
To make great tasting, 
freshly prepared food 
accessible to everyone.

Our vision
To be the customers’  
favourite for food-on-
the-go.

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AT A GLANCE CONTINUED

WHAT WE DO
We are a modern food-on-the-go retailer providing a wide menu of food  
and drink choices wherever and whenever our customers need us. 

Manufacturing
In our own food manufacturing
centres of excellence, we make 
great tasting, freshly prepared 
food that our customers can trust. 

Logistics
We move products from our food 
manufacturing sites to our shops 
ourselves, which helps us to keep 
our prices as low as possible.

Our people
We have more than 25,000 amazing 
colleagues, working together to 
provide our customers with the 
best experience, offering fast and 
friendly service, day in, day out.

Customer channels
With around 2,200 shops, 
including 375 with franchise 
partners, our wholesale 
partnership, delivery and 
Click + Collect, we are available  
to serve customers wherever, 
whenever and however  
they choose.

Customer 
relationships
Through our new Greggs App, we
are building long-term connections
with our customers and rewarding
their loyalty. Our new CRM
system allows us to talk to our
customers on a regular one-to-one
basis, via email, SMS or the  
Greggs App. 

WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT
We have been around for over 80 years building a reputation for offering great quality, freshly prepared food at low prices with great service.  
We are a much-loved and trusted brand that is for everyone and available to serve our customers wherever, whenever and however they choose. 

Purpose
To make good, freshly prepared 
food accessible to everyone.

Quality
We want our products to be  
the best they can be.

Convenience
We want to be able to serve 
customers wherever, whenever 
and however they choose.

Value
We offer great value in an 
extremely competitive 
marketplace.

Service
We provide customers with fast 
and friendly service, fixing issues 
without a fuss and rewarding 
them for their loyalty.

3

Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcAT A GLANCE CONTINUED

OUR STRATEGY
While Greggs has enjoyed tremendous success in recent years as we sought to become the customers’ favourite for 
food-on-the-go, our journey is far from over. We have an ambitious plan to double Greggs’ sales in the next five years  
and while the fundamental strategic pillars of our business model have not changed, we are continually learning and 
adapting and have identified four key growth drivers which will become the focus of our strategy to reach our full  
potential in the years ahead. 

OUR FUNDAMENTAL STRATEGIC PILLARS
Great tasting, freshly 
prepared food
You cannot beat freshly baked, freshly 
prepared food. With our great flavours, 
responsibly-sourced ingredients, 
consistent quality and outstanding value  
our food-on-the-go leads the way.

Best customer experience
Fast and friendly service is a key reason why 
customers choose Greggs. Great service is 
not an easy thing to deliver under pressure, 
and our shop teams do an amazing job. 
Through our Greggs App, we are able to  
build longlasting relationships with our 
customers and reward their loyalty. 

Competitive supply chain
By owning our supply chain, we can make 
great tasting, freshly prepared food at low 
prices accessible to everyone.

First class support teams
We’ve invested heavily in leading-edge 
systems. They equip our support teams to 
provide the best service to their colleagues 
and, ultimately, our customers.

THE GREGGS PLEDGE: DEDICATED TO DOING GOOD

Stronger, healthier communities
We pledge to play our part in improving the nation’s diet 
by helping to tackle obesity, providing free breakfasts 
to school children and giving surplus food to those who 
need it most.

Safer planet
We pledge to become a carbon neutral,  
zero waste business.

Better business
We pledge to increase the diversity of our workforce, 
and to use our purchasing power responsibly, with the 
aim of making things better in our supply chain.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021 
AT A GLANCE CONTINUED

OUR FOUR KEY DRIVERS OF GROWTH

Growing and 
developing the 
Greggs estate 

With a strong new shop opening pipeline 
and a significant opportunity to improve 
the quality of our estate through 
relocations and the next generation  
of shop refits, our ambition is to reach  
at least 3,000 shops as the next target  
for our supply chain capacity  
planning assumptions.

Read more on page 24 

Evening  
trade

Through extending the trading hours  
in many of our shops, delivering new  
and exciting additions to our menu  
and leveraging our existing customer 
channels, including delivery and Click + 
Collect alongside walk-in customers,  
we have a strategic opportunity to 
effectively compete for food-on-the-go 
sales in the evening. 

Read more on page 26 

Digital  
channels 

Through our digital channels we are able  
to compete more effectively at all times of 
day. Our delivery partnership with Just Eat 
enables us to increase the reach of our 
shops beyond customers passing by and, 
in addition, offers the added attraction of 
serving multiple customers in one order 
with higher-than-average basket size. 
Click + Collect offers our customers the 
ability to easily browse our menu, skip  
the queues and ultimately personalise 
their order. 

Read more on page 28 

Making Greggs 
mean more to 
more people 

We have successfully repositioned the 
Greggs brand in recent years to become 
recognised as a customer favourite for 
food-on-the-go. Through our brand 
activity, and with timely and effective 
customer communication via our new 
Greggs App, website and CRM system,  
we have the opportunity to effectively 
communicate how Greggs can mean  
more things to more people, so that we  
are a brand considered by more people,  
in more places and at all times of day  
when they need food-on-the-go.

Read more on page 30 

Investing in our supply chain and systems for a bigger business

Our ambition to double sales revenues will require significant investment in manufacturing and logistics to increase capacity. Building a centralised business model has required  
a transformational investment in systems and, now that our SAP implementation is nearly complete, we have accelerated our digital transformation programme. With this new 
platform in place, we see significant opportunities to grow our digital capabilities and enable more efficient operations which will see a programme of continuous improvement  
as the business grows.

Read more on page 32 

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STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc 
 
AT A GLANCE CONTINUED

OUR SUSTAINABILITY COMMITMENTS
It’s our duty as a responsible business to stand for more than just 
profit. Our sustainability report, The Greggs Pledge, is about how  
we can do more to help people, protect the planet and work with  
our partners to change the world for the better. Based on the UN’s 
Sustainable Development Goals, The Greggs Pledge commits  
us to achieving the following goals by 2025:

1,000 

school Breakfast Clubs 
providing some 70,000 meals 
each school day.

25%

less food waste than in 2018 and 
will continue to work towards 
100% of surplus food going to 
those most in need.

25%

less packaging, by weight, than 
in 2019, and any remaining 
packaging will be made from 
material that is widely recycled. 

50

Greggs Outlet shops providing 
affordable food in areas of 
social deprivation, with a share 
of profits given to local 
community organisations. 

Read more on sustainability on  
pages 36 to 44 

30%

of the items on our shelves will  
be healthier choices. 

100%

on our way to achieving carbon 
neutrality by using 100% renewable 
energy across all of our operations.

25%

of our shops will feature elements 
from our Eco-Shop, ‘shop of the 
future’ design.

Diverse and inclusive workforce
which reflects the communities  
we serve.

Responsible sourcing strategy
in place to report annually on 
progress towards our targets.

Tier 1
secured and maintained in the 
BBFAW Animal Welfare standard.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcAT A GLANCE CONTINUED

OUR CULTURE AND VALUES
Our people are what makes our business successful. We aim to provide them 
with a great place to work, where they feel valued and have the opportunity to 
fulfil their potential. Our values commit us to being friendly, inclusive, honest, 
respectful, hardworking and appreciative.

Total employees

Percentage of female employees

25,174

69%

OUR STAKEHOLDERS
Maintaining good relationships with our essential stakeholders 
is key to what we do. Our stakeholder family includes customers, 
colleagues, investors, suppliers and, of course, the 
communities that we serve.

HOW WE MEASURE OUR PERFORMANCE
Constant monitoring of how we meet our objectives and 
challenges is vital to success. Naturally, we look at financial 
performance through our principal KPIs, but doing business  
in the right way is measured too, with wide-ranging balanced 
scorecards examining every aspect of what we do. 

Read more on our stakeholders on pages 45 to 54 

Customers

Colleagues

Suppliers

Shareholders

Communities

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcYEAR IN REVIEW

STRONGER
BUSINESS 

From the launch of The Greggs Pledge, 
supporting the Greggs Foundation in its biggest 
Breakfast Club Appeal yet and getting our shops 
ready for Natasha's Law, to launching our new 
Greggs App and website and celebrating new 
shop openings, there is a lot to be proud of.

February
Launch of The Greggs Pledge
We set out our ten commitments 
about how we can do more to help 
people, protect the planet and work 
with our partners to change the world 
for the better, including a pledge to 
achieve net zero carbon, as we all  
fight to save our planet from the  
threat of global warming. Our latest 
report is available to view here:  
corporate.greggs.co.uk/

January
Putting an end to food waste  
with Too Good To Go
We ramped up our partnership with Too  
Good To Go, the food-waste saving app,  
a partnership that would help us save  
over 810 tonnes of food in 2021.

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April
Greggs Foundation’s annual  
Breakfast Club Appeal
With the help of customers, colleagues and 
partners, we helped the Greggs Foundation  
to raise over £120,000 for its Breakfast Club 
Appeal, enabling us to support 480,000 
children with a free breakfast in one of  
our Breakfast Club schools.

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcYEAR IN REVIEW CONTINUED

May
200th shop opening with 
franchise partner Euro Garages
We celebrated this big milestone 
opening with longstanding partner 
Euro Garages at Shavington in Crewe. 

June
New Greggs website and  
App launched
We relaunched our internally 
developed Greggs website and  
App with great new features for 
customers, including rewards across 
every category and a new CRM system, 
making it easier to send Greggs fans 
the right message at the right time.

August
Launched new partnership with 
charity Only a Pavement Away
We have a longstanding history  
of working with people from 
disadvantaged backgrounds and, in 
partnership with Only a Pavement 
Away, we aim to bring more people  
that are at risk of homelessness into 
secure and sustainable employment 
and help them to rebuild their lives.

September
Balliol National Distribution 
Centre official opening 
Our Main Board team attended the 
official opening of our new frozen 
storage facility which brings together 
the majority of our frozen storage 
under one roof. This facility will not 
only improve efficiency, but will also 
have a hugely positive impact on 
reducing our carbon footprint.

October
Natasha’s Law
Greggs is always there for our 
customers, and that goes especially 
for helping them to understand what’s 
in our products, in relation to allergens. 
Even when the pandemic took hold, 
our colleagues never lost focus and  
did an incredible job getting us ready 
for Natasha’s Law. 

December
Major milestone with Just Eat
We rolled out our partnership  
with Just Eat to over 1,000 shops 
nationwide, meaning more and more 
customers can enjoy Greggs in the 
comfort of their own homes.

BETTER 
BUSINESS

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc 
CHAIR’S STATEMENT

Greggs returned to the front foot in 2021. With a strong team, 
brand and financial position we are well-placed to embrace 
the many strategic opportunities ahead of us. We have an 
ambitious plan and the resources to pursue it for the  
benefit of all of our stakeholders.

BETTER 
ADAPTED  
TO A NEW 
CHAPTER

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021 
CHAIR’S STATEMENT CONTINUED

Overview
2021 was a year of further recovery for Greggs as we 
navigated the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic 
and set out a clear strategic plan to address the 
opportunities that lie ahead. An ability to react quickly to 
changing conditions has been crucial in recent years and  
the Greggs team has demonstrated this agility, delivering a 
strong 2021 financial result in the face of ongoing disruption 
to demand and in our supply chain.

At the same time we have remained focused on our 
responsibilities to colleagues and the broader stakeholder 
community. By publishing The Greggs Pledge we set out 
clear environmental and social commitments in those  
areas where we believe we can make the most impact  
as we seek to build on Greggs strong reputation as a  
responsible business.

The Board’s strategy review was of particular importance  
in 2021 as we reflected on the lessons of the past year and 
their implications for our plans. The result is an ambitious 
strategic plan, founded on broadening access to Greggs 
across the day and also through new shops and channels.  
We believe that Greggs’ brand strength and the breadth  
of its customer offer makes the business well-placed to  
grow quickly as the economy recovers.

Our people and values
The Board makes considerable efforts to stay close to the 
Greggs team, making sure that we are in tune with the 
business challenges and issues that they encounter. In the 
face of continued challenges from a pandemic-affected 

trading environment our colleagues, once more, responded 
magnificently, and the Board does not take this for granted. 
We were pleased to support proposals to bring forward by 
five months the annual pay award for colleagues to thank 
them for their contribution in 2021.

A particular focus for the business in recent years has been 
the desire to progress the equality and diversity agenda.  
As part of Greggs’ ambition to achieve the National Equality 
Standard (NES) the Board engaged in a training session and 
reviewed business progress across a wide range of 
inclusivity initiatives. Directors also attended special interest 
groups designed to represent the needs of colleagues and 
promote equality of opportunity. Whilst there is more to  
do to reach the NES, the Board is encouraged by the  
strong progress being made from a solid base of Greggs’  
values-driven approach.

In the face of the challenges of the past two years the Board 
considers it more important than ever to support the work of 
the Greggs Foundation in the communities where we 
operate. The charity, independent of, but supported by, the 
Company has been working to build stronger, healthier 
communities for 35 years. The Greggs Foundation has been 
chaired for the past 20 years by Andrew Davison OBE, who 
retired from this voluntary role in 2021. I would like to record 
the Board’s immense gratitude to Andrew for his leadership 
and commitment over so many years, and for the impact that 
this has had on so many people. We look forward to working 
with Andrew’s successor, Joanna Dyson OBE, to further the 
work of the Greggs Foundation over the years ahead.

Another important relationship has been with the trustee  
of the Company’s legacy defined benefit pension scheme. 
Richard Bottomley OBE has recently retired from chairing 
the trustee group, a position he held for 12 years, and leaves 
the scheme in a very strong position. On behalf of the 
Company and the scheme’s members I would like to thank 
Richard for the great progress made under his period  
of stewardship.

The Board
The Board has a plan in place for succession for both 
Executive and Non-Executive Directors. In March 2021 I 
explained that, although under the UK Corporate 
Governance Code I would have normally been expected  
to step down as Chair, the Board had asked me to remain  
in place to provide continuity of leadership as we  
addressed the Chief Executive’s succession.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021 
 
CHAIR’S STATEMENT CONTINUED

Total ordinary dividend for the year

Special dividend to be paid in April

57.0p

40.0p

In 2021 the Company’s Nominations Committee commenced 
a recruitment process to address Chief Executive 
succession as Roger Whiteside approached retirement  
age. The Committee appointed an executive search firm  
to conduct a comprehensive search, which considered 
internal and external candidates. The quality of candidates 
was strong and, following a rigorous process, the 
Committee recommended the appointment of Roisin Currie, 
Greggs Retail and Property Director, as Chief Executive to 
succeed Roger Whiteside. Roisin was appointed as CEO 
Designate and as an Executive Director on 1 February 2022 
and will take over as Chief Executive at the end of the 
Company’s annual general meeting (AGM) on 17 May 2022. 
Roger Whiteside will step down from the Board at the  
close of the AGM but will remain available to support the 
transition process until 5 January 2023.

Roger has led Greggs through a period of extraordinary  
and sustained success and I would like to thank him for  
his exceptional leadership since his appointment in 2013.  
His straightforward, personable and engaging style has 
engendered great trust within the business and an 
enthusiastic following amongst all our stakeholders.  
I would like to wish Roger a long and happy retirement. 

As part of our plan to phase succession of Non-Executive 
Directors the Board announced the appointment of 
Mohamed Elsarky as an independent Non-Executive 

Director in June 2021, and Peter McPhillips retired as an 
independent Non-Executive Director in July 2021. Sandra 
Turner, Senior Independent Director, took over from Peter  
as the Non-Executive Director responsible for overseeing 
colleague engagement.

In the second half of 2022 the Nominations Committee will 
commence activity to identify my successor as Chair of the 
Board. As previously communicated, I expect to remain in 
position only as long as is necessary to ensure a good 
transition to the new Chief Executive and whilst the  
process of identifying my successor takes place.

Further details of the Board’s work are included in the 
governance and committee sections of the annual report.

Dividend
At the time of the interim results in August 2021 the Board 
declared an interim ordinary dividend of 15.0 pence per share 
and stated its intention to return to a full-year ordinary 
dividend that is around two times covered by underlying 
earnings after taxation (profit after tax excluding exceptional 
items). In line with this ordinary dividend policy, the Board 
intends to recommend at the AGM a final dividend of 42.0 
pence per share (2020: nil), giving a total ordinary dividend 
for the year of 57.0 pence (2020: nil).

Going forward our dividend policy will continue to target a 
progressive ordinary dividend, normally around two times 
covered by profit after taxation, with further surplus cash 
being returned to shareholders as appropriate. Having taken 
into account our strong balance sheet position and the 
Company’s investment and working capital requirements, 
and the intention to maintain our progressive ordinary 
dividend policy, the Board has declared an additional  
special dividend of 40.0 pence per share (2020: nil), to  
be paid in April.

Our Finance Director, Richard Hutton, outlines the expected 
application of the distribution policy in more detail in the 
financial review.

Looking ahead
Greggs has once again demonstrated its resilience and the 
cash-generative nature of its business model. It is a great 
business with an excellent team, and although short-term 
trading conditions remain challenging, we have great 
confidence in the opportunities that lie ahead and strong 
liquidity to support our investment plan that will unlock 
further growth.

Ian Durant
Chair
8 March 2022

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcBUSINESS MODEL

What we do

Manufacturing
We make great tasting, freshly prepared food that 
customers can trust, in our own manufacturing 
centres of excellence. 

Logistics
We move products from our manufacturing sites 
to our shops ourselves, helping to keep prices as 
low as possible.

Our people
We have more than 25,000 amazing colleagues, 
providing our customers with the best experience 
every day.

Customer channels
With around 2,200 shops across the UK, delivery 
and wholesale partnerships and Click + Collect,  
we can serve our customers wherever, whenever 
and however they choose. 

Customer relationships
Our Greggs App and CRM system allow us to build 
long-term connections with our customers and 
reward their loyalty. 

STRATEGIC REPORT 

Our strategic pillars

How we add value to our stakeholders

Great tasting,  
freshly prepared food

First class  
support teams

Best customer  
experience

Key drivers of growth

Competitive  
supply chain

Growing the Greggs estate
Through new shop openings, 
relocations and the next generation 
of shop refits, our ambition is to 
reach at least 3,000 shops.

Digital channels 
Through our digital channels, 
including delivery and Click + Collect, 
we are able to compete more 
effectively at all times of day. 

Extending trade into  
the evening
Through extending our trading hours, 
exciting new additions to our menu 
and leveraging our existing customer 
channels, we are able to compete 
more effectively for food-on-the-go 
sales in the evening.

Making Greggs mean more  
to more people 
Through timely, effective customer 
communication via our new Greggs 
App, website and CRM system, we can 
communicate with our customers and 
be a brand considered by more people 
when they need food-on-the-go.

Investing in our supply chain and systems for a bigger business.
We’ve transformed our supply chain and systems infrastructure to increase 
capacity and grow our digital capabilities.

Customers
No. 1

on YouGov’s BrandIndex measure 
2021, within the QSR, coffee shop  
and food delivery sector.

Colleagues
82%

engagement score in our latest 
employee opinion survey.

Suppliers
92.4%

of invoices were paid to suppliers 
within the terms agreed.

Shareholders
97p

dividend restarted.
57p per share for 2021, plus  
40p special dividend.

Communities
£3.7m

of grants were awarded by the 
Greggs Foundation.

What makes us different

Purpose
To make good, freshly  
prepared food accessible 
to everyone.

Quality
We want our products  
to be the best they can be.

Convenience
We want to be able to serve 
customers wherever, 
whenever and however  
they choose.

Value
We offer great value in an 
extremely competitive 
marketplace.

Service
We provide customers with fast 
and friendly service, fixing 
issues without a fuss and 
rewarding them for their loyalty.

Greggs Pledge
Stronger, healthier 
communities. Better  
business. Safer planet. 

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DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc 
CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S REPORT

In a second year dominated by disruption due to Covid, our teams once 
again coped magnificently with unprecedented and rapidly-changing 
conditions. We set out at the beginning of the year to show that we 
could not only cope with Covid, but emerge from this crisis both 
stronger and better as a business.

STRONGER  
PLATFORM  
FOR FUTURE 
GROWTH

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021 
CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S REPORT CONTINUED

Our results and achievements in 2021 show 
that we achieved both those ambitions,  
and I would like to take this opportunity  
to, once again, thank all of our teams  
across the country who rose so well  
to meet these challenges.

Adapting to the unexpected
We began the year with the country in lockdown, but with 
safe operating practices in place we were able to continue 
trading, albeit with restricted customer footfall in many 
areas. In a foretaste of things to come we faced the first of 
many unpredictable disruptions when new regulations in 
Scotland left us with no option but to close our shops there 
as we developed new solutions to protect our colleagues, 
who were required to serve from our doorways. Our Scottish 
teams worked tirelessly to redesign our operating 
procedures so that we could open again.

Thankfully, conditions eased in the spring as first non-
essential retail, and subsequently the seated hospitality 
sector, were allowed to open their doors again. In that period 

we saw customer footfall returning in traditional locations, 
although not to pre-Covid levels, with customers remaining 
cautious. Nevertheless, demand in our walk-in channel rose 
sufficiently alongside strong delivery sales to see us return 
to positive total like-for-like sales growth in the second 
quarter when compared to 2019, which was ahead of our 
expectations. We had done well to accelerate our services in 
the delivery channel as Covid struck and, now that walk-in 
footfall was returning, delivery demand was proving to be 
largely incremental to this, extending the reach of our shops 
beyond customers passing by.

Our battle with Covid took a new turn in the summer, when 
employee absence climbed dramatically as the test and 
trace system imposed increased levels of isolation for those 
encountering the virus. Pressure on our teams increased 
again with high levels of absence combined with a tightening 
labour market, making recruitment more difficult as we 
sought to fill vacancies and create new teams for our shop 
opening programme. While absence levels settled down  
later in the autumn, the recruitment challenge became  
more difficult with key skill shortages, particularly for  
drivers in our supply chain.

Shops to offer delivery service in 2022

Target number of new shops

1,300

3,000

WHAT’S NEW IN OUR FIVE-YEAR 
GROWTH STRATEGY 

We have identified four key growth 
drivers which will become the focus 
of our plan to reach our full potential 
in the years ahead.  

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Growing and developing the Greggs estate  
Through new shop openings, relocations and the 
next generation of shop refits, our ambition is to 
reach 3,000 shops as the next target for our supply 
chain planning assumptions. 

Extending trade into the evening 
Through extending our trading hours, exciting new 
additions to our menu and leveraging our existing 
customer channels, we are able to compete more 
effectively for food-on-the-go sales in the evening. 

Digital channels 
Through our digital channels, including delivery 
and Click + Collect, we are able to compete more 
effectively at all times of the day. 

Making Greggs mean more to more people 
Through timely, effective customer 
communication via our new Greggs App, website 
and CRM system, we can communicate with our 
customers and be a brand considered by more 
people when they need food-on-the-go.  

Read more on pages 24-40 

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STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTS 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S REPORT CONTINUED

Roger Whiteside OBE, Chief Executive

 “  Our results and achievements in 2021 show that we 
have emerged from the pandemic both stronger 
and better as a business. I would like to thank, once 
again, all of our teams across the country who rose 
so well to meet the challenges of the last two years.”

Employee absence and skill shortages also contributed to the 
broader challenges we were experiencing in our supply chain. 
With a recovering global economy seeing demand exceed 
supply in many areas, unpredictable supply shortages 
became a daily feature of our operations. Part of our 
response was to return to focusing on our bestselling lines 
and to restrict our programme of new product launches.

Financial results 
Total sales grew to a record £1,229.7 million in 2021 (2020: 
£811.3 million, 2019: £1,167.9 million), a 5.3% increase on the 
level seen in 2019. Within this, company-managed shop 
like-for-like sales were 3.3% lower than the equivalent  
period in 2019, with sales growth returning following the 
lifting of restrictions seen in the first quarter.

Despite all these challenges we continued to deliver positive 
like-for-like-sales growth with travel restrictions creating a 
‘staycation’ tailwind in the summer. Some of that momentum 
fell back in the autumn as VAT support reduced, followed by  
a step back in customer footfall approaching Christmas as 
new Covid guidance saw a return to working from home.

In my long retail career I have never experienced such high 
levels of prolonged disruption to operations, and we owe our 
success last year to the commitment and willingness of our 
teams to work around these problems. We chose to recognise 
that effort by bringing forward our annual pay award for all our 
operational teams by five months from 2022 into 2021, both 
as a special thank you, but also to help us recruit additional 
support for them by increasing our attraction in the labour 
market as we entered the new year.

Pre-tax profit for the year was £145.6 million (2020: £13.7 
million loss, 2019: £108.3 million profit). As a result of the 
return to profitability we are able to recommence our long 
tradition of sharing 10% of our profits with colleagues each 
year and in March 2022 we will share £16.6 million with our 
people as a result of our performance in 2021. We finished 
2021 with a very strong cash position that will support our 
ambitious plans to invest for further growth, as outlined 
below, as well as the recommencement of dividend 
payments to our shareholders.

Coming back stronger
Having demonstrated our resilience in coping with all  
that these two years of crisis have thrown at us, we were 
determined to demonstrate that we could come back 
stronger as a business. While Greggs has enjoyed 
tremendous success in recent years as we sought to  

16

become the customer’s favourite for food-on-the-go, our 
journey is far from over. In October we held a Capital Markets 
Day for shareholders and investors in which we set out our 
ambitious plan to double sales over the next five years.  
The fundamental strategic pillars of our business model  
have not changed but we have identified four key growth 
drivers which will become the focus of our plan to reach  
our full potential in the years ahead.

Growing and developing the Greggs estate 
In restarting our shop opening programme following the 
initial impact of Covid, we set out a new ambition to reach at 
least 3,000 shops as the next target against which to plan 
supply chain capacity. Covid has led to a significant increase 
in the availability of retail property, creating an opportunity 
for Greggs to accelerate its shop opening programme. In 
2021 Greggs opened 131 new shops and closed 28, growing 
the estate to 2,181 shops. Our new shop pipeline is in good 
shape and we have increased our annual shop opening  
target to 150 net new shops, effective from the start  
of 2022, to take advantage of these conditions.

The versatility of our brand allows us to operate a full range 
of formats, and new digital channels enable us to extend the 
reach of each location to more customers. We have good 
representation in traditional towns and suburban locations 
and are therefore continuing to focus our efforts on new 
on-the-go locations where people work, travel and/or access 
by car. Central London is one geographic region where lower 
rents now allow entry for value-led brands, and we have a 
strong pipeline in development. Openings in 2021 included 
our first shops in Canary Wharf and Kings Cross Station, 
together with several standalone ‘drive thru’ shops.

Franchise partners play an important role in providing 
access to otherwise restricted locations. We currently have 
375 franchise locations with 12 corporate partners, and 
expect franchise shops to account for around 20% of our 
estate in the years ahead. Our wholesale partnership with 

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc 
 
CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S REPORT CONTINUED

Iceland sits outside of our shop estate, but increases the 
reach of our brand to compete in the at-home grocery 
market where we have enjoyed strong sales growth,  
with further scope for range development.

In 2022 we will also begin our next generation of shop refits, 
which will see us create dedicated space for digital channels 
and increased capabilities in food preparation in around  
200 shops. We will also continue to improve the quality of  
our estate through relocations, seeking larger, better 
premises offering more channels and coffee shop  
seating where appropriate. 

Digital channels 
We set out to develop digital channels to market in 2019, 
which meant that when the pandemic hit in 2020 we were in  
a position to rapidly accelerate our plans. During the year we 
rolled out delivery with our partners Just Eat from 600 to 
1,000 shops nationwide. While there is some small level of 
switching between channels, delivery sales remained strong 
and accretive when walk-in sales increased again, extending 
the reach of our shops beyond just customers who are 
passing by. Delivery offers the added attraction of serving 
multiple customers in one order, with average basket sizes  
at three times the walk-in levels. 

up, speed up service by removing payment at the till and has 
the potential to reduce waste.

Making Greggs mean more to more people 
We have successfully repositioned the Greggs brand in 
recent years to become recognised as the customers’ 
favourite for food-on-the-go. Market research shows that 
we operate in a growing market, but that we account for less 
than 7% of customer visits (source: NPD/ Crest) and that 
three-quarters of our App customers visit Greggs less than 
once a week. Digital engagement with customers can help  
us communicate how Greggs can mean more things to more 

Evening trade 
In addition to new shops, we have a strategic opportunity to 
extend the trading hours in many of our shops to compete for 
food-on-the-go sales in the evening. Market research shows 
that sales after 4pm accounted for 35% of food-to-go sales 
in 2021, the largest proportion of the market by time of day. 
Greggs shops typically close at around 6pm and therefore  
we currently account for just 1% by value of this ‘dinner time’ 
market compared with nearly 8% of the lunchtime market 
and 11% of the breakfast market (source: NPD/Crest 2021).

We can reach more customers still by rolling out delivery  
to more shops, increasing capacity and improving our 
operational procedures to fulfil demand. In 2022 we plan to 
roll out this service to a further 300 shops, resulting in 1,300 
shops offering delivery by the end of the year. The increased 
reach from delivery will also be key to accelerating our plans 
for later opening. A significant proportion of market demand 
for delivery comes post-5pm, and we estimate that the 
combination of walk-in and delivery will make two-thirds  
of our shops viable for late trading over time.

With 86% of demand in this dinner time market being  
‘take out’ in nature, Greggs is well positioned to compete for 
sales provided we can tailor our menu to meet customer 
expectations at that time of day. Market research shows  
that we are not starting from a zero base, with over 30%  
of customers surveyed believing our existing menu has 
options suited to the evening.

Initial trials in 100 shops show that by combining walk-in with 
delivery sales, offering the existing menu, we can already 
grow the evening daypart to an average of 17% of daily sales. 
In 2022 we will extend late opening (with delivery service)  
to a total of 500 shops, including our hot food menu trials  
and supported with marketing activity.

Beyond delivery, we believe digital channels open new 
opportunities for Greggs to compete more effectively at all 
times of day. As a daily sell-out fresh food business, Click + 
Collect offers customers the ability to easily browse our 
menu, guarantee availability, skip the queues and ultimately 
personalise their order. In 2021, we integrated our Click + 
Collect service with our new Greggs App, and 2022 will see  
us begin to promote these services to our customers.

Greggs already offers a made-to-order service which is the 
core of our breakfast sandwich offer. Digital channels will 
allow us to extend this option to other categories. In 2022,  
we will begin trials with pizza toppings before moving onto 
baguettes. Made-to-order will extend product choice from 
the existing ingredient list, encourage customers to trade 

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcCHIEF EXECUTIVE’S REPORT CONTINUED

people, so that we can be a brand considered by more 
people, more of the time, in more places and at all times  
of day when they need food-on-the-go.

In 2021, we launched our new Greggs App offering a market-
leading reward scheme and integrating Click + Collect 
services. Downloads of the new App are now in excess of one 
million and digital engagement tools will be deployed at scale 
in 2022 to drive visit frequency and average transaction 
values. Existing customers will be encouraged to sign up to 
the App and, in addition, we will partner with strategic brands 
to grow our customer base.

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Investing in our supply chain and systems  
for a bigger business
Over recent years, Greggs has transformed its supply chain 
and systems infrastructure to become a centralised food-on-
the-go business. By making better use of space and investing 
in centralised automation we have delivered a step-change 
improvement in the quality of our products and our supply 
chain cost structure. This has created a template on which to 
build additional capacity as the business continues to grow. 

Our ambition to double sales revenues will require investment 
in both our manufacturing and logistics capacity. In 2021 we 
successfully opened our new automated frozen distribution 
centre in Newcastle, completed the building extension work  
at our Treforest bakery in Wales and increased capacity in our 
savoury plant at Balliol Park in Newcastle. In addition, new SAP 
systems were successfully rolled out to an additional six of our 
manufacturing and distribution centres, with the final two 
locations to be completed this year.

Work is now underway to confirm optimal locations for future 
investment in capacity including considering a Southern-
based manufacturing centre and additional primary and  
radial logistics capacity.

Building a centralised business model has required a 
transformational investment in systems. Our multi-year 
implementation of SAP is almost complete, and we have 
accelerated our digital transformation programme. In 2021, 
we increased capacity and resilience in our IT network and 
migrated our business intelligence solution to Microsoft  
Power BI. With this new platform in place, we see significant 
opportunities to grow our digital capabilities and enable  
more efficient operations, which will drive a programme  
of continuous improvement as the business grows.

In 2021 we successfully implemented our new sandwich 
labelling system to comply with Natasha’s Law, safeguarding 
customers with allergies. This was a massive cross-functional 

 “Investing in our supply 
chain and systems for  
a bigger business.”

team effort deployed on time across all shops, despite major 
supply chain and Covid disruption. It will now provide the 
platform to develop our made-to-order services offering 
product personalisation. 

Coming back better – The Greggs Pledge 
In addition to coming back stronger as a business, we were 
determined that we should also come back better, so in 
February 2021 we launched The Greggs Pledge. Ever since 
John Gregg founded the business in 1939, we have always 
tried to do the right thing by our people, customers, suppliers 
and communities. These values are at the heart of our 
culture and so it is natural that we want to conduct our 
business in a responsible manner.

The Greggs Pledge commits us to ten things that we’re doing 
to help make the world a better place by 2025 – and beyond. 
We arrived at these pledges by talking with our own people 
and our external stakeholders, and by considering the 
issues that are most relevant to our business. Our pledges 
align with the ambitions of the UN Sustainable Development 
Goals (SDGs).

We have chosen to concentrate our efforts on the challenges 
where we think we can make the most difference.

We want to help build stronger, healthier communities
Even before the pandemic ravaged our economy, far too 
many people were struggling with poverty and hunger in this 
country. The Greggs Breakfast Clubs feed around 44,000 
children every school day and we will continue to grow the 

Annual Report and Accounts 2021 
 
CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S REPORT CONTINUED

scheme. We are also doing what we can to ensure that 
perfectly good food isn't wasted, but instead gets to people 
who need it. We recognise that poor nutrition is another 
issue where we have a role to play and are doing more to 
guide our customers towards healthier choices.

We want to make our planet safer
The impact of unchecked climate change would be 
catastrophic. We want to make Greggs a carbon-neutral, zero-
waste business. We actively support the BRC’s Climate Action 
Roadmap which aims to make the UK’s retail industry net zero, 
well ahead of the Government’s 2050 target. In addition, we 
are reducing our use of packaging, looking at how we can 
apply ‘circular economy’ thinking to our business and working 
with our suppliers to make efficient use of resources.

We want to be a better business
The corporate world can be a powerful force for good when it 
is guided by a moral compass. As well as continuing to 
support our communities by paying our taxes and providing 
thousands of fairly-paid jobs, we are redoubling our efforts 
to make Greggs a great place to work. We are also setting 

On a two-year basis, company-managed 
like-for-like sales in the first nine weeks of 2022

3.7% 

high standards for what we purchase and encouraging our 
suppliers to raise their game too.

she leads the business to meet the exciting growth 
opportunities that lie ahead.

We will give back to the communities that support us and 
take less from the environment that we all rely on. We want 
Greggs to play a meaningful role, not just in getting Britain 
back on its feet, but in getting us to a better place. We made 
good progress in 2021 achieving the majority of the targets 
set out in our Pledge which are reported in detail in our 
separate sustainability report.

Looking forward 
As I approach retirement, this will be my final year as Chief 
Executive of Greggs and it has been my privilege to have led 
this business for the past eight years, setting us on a new 
course to become the customers’ favourite for food-on-the-
go. In that time, I have tried my best to change the things  
that needed changing but more importantly to protect  
and nurture those things that shouldn’t change – most 
importantly, the culture: the ‘what makes Greggs, Greggs’.

Every business needs to constantly evolve to stay relevant 
for its customers and for that it needs the right strategic 
plan, but that is only part of the story. The main risk in leading 
a growing business is that change is poorly managed, 
resulting in the organisation undermining its culture and 
values that have taken decades to develop, earning the trust 
of colleagues and customers alike. That is why I am delighted 
that Roisin Currie has been appointed as my successor, 
because in working alongside her for many years, I know that 
she embodies our values and will continue to protect them as 

We have started 2022 well, helped by the easing of 
restrictions. Against a very low base in 2021, when the UK 
was in a more restrictive period of lockdown, company-
managed like-for-like sales in the first nine weeks of 2022 
have grown by 44.2%. On a two-year basis, which we 
reported throughout 2021, company-managed like-for-like 
sales in the first nine weeks were 3.7% higher than the 
equivalent period of 2020.

Cost pressures will be a particular feature of the year ahead, 
with inflation impacting on raw materials, energy and people 
costs, and these pressures are currently more significant 
than our initial expectations. As ever, we will work to 
mitigate the impact of this on customers, protecting Greggs' 
reputation for exceptional value in the freshly-prepared 
food-to-go market. Given this dynamic, we do not currently 
expect material profit progression in the year ahead.

Despite these near-term pressures, we continue to believe 
that the opportunities for Greggs have never been more 
exciting. Our investment over recent years has left the 
business well-placed to move quickly as the economy 
recovers and we drive our ambitious plans to become a 
larger, multi-channel business.

Roger Whiteside OBE
Chief Executive
8 March 2022

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc 
Q&A WITH ROISIN CURRIE, CEO DESIGNATE

I am excited about pushing ahead with our strategic  
plan, turning Greggs into a destination for every mealtime  
by extending opening hours into the evening, and  
maximising our use of digital technology to grow  
our delivery business too.

FOCUSING 
ON THE 
FUTURE

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc 
Q&A WITH ROISIN CURRIE, CEO DESIGNATE CONTINUED

How long have you been with Greggs?
I joined in 2010 as Group People Director, then took on Retail 
Operations as well. My last job title before becoming CEO 
Designate was Retail and Property Director.

What did your most recent role involve?
The retail side of our business is all about making sure our 
shops look fantastic and are delivering brilliant service. The 
property side is about making sure we have bigger and better 
sites to build new shops, and that we are refitting our existing 
estate so that everything feels modern and on brand.

In my last role the two came together: there are strong links 
between them, and our success and growth relies on getting 
both spot on. These teams enable us to deliver our 
accelerated growth plan – but in a way that never 
undermines return on investment on a particular shop. 

You have decades of experience on the people side 
– how has that shaped your outlook?
I know that taking care of our people is the best way to take 
care of our business: when they are free to be themselves, 
they deliver amazing service. I know big businesses need 
processes, but I want our ways of working to support our 
people, not constrain them. 

We all wear different badges and have different levels of 
responsibility, but we are one team with a shared goal: to 
make Greggs a success. Wherever they are working, I want 
to help unlock our people’s capability so they can be the  
best they can be.

Where were you before Greggs?
I joined Greggs from Asda. When I was a student at 
Strathclyde University, I worked as a checkout supervisor  
at my local branch a couple of nights a week. My manager 
thought I showed potential and made me deputy manager.  
I was working around my studies and it was unusual for 
management to work part-time so it was a lucky break.  
After I graduated, I joined their graduate scheme and spent 
20 years there, working my way up to become their People 
Director, first for the retail side, then for distribution.

What do you do outside work?
I’m a mum of three – a daughter and two sons – so outside of 
work my life revolves around their interests and social life: 
like all parents of teens, my husband and I spend a lot of time 
ferrying them back and forth! I enjoy sport and do a lot of 
cycling and running. In fact, my daughter and I started 
running more seriously during lockdown. She was studying 
for her GCSEs and I was working really hard so it was great to 

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 “  Greggs started out as a family business, and it 

still feels like one – our people are at the heart of 
what we do. As I take the baton from Roger, my 
key remit is to protect and nurture the culture 
and values that make Greggs, Greggs.”

get outside together every day for a proper run – we did Red 
January last year which meant running 5km every day. We 
now run half marathons together and are looking forward  
to the next Great North Run.

Where’s home?
We live in Harrogate but I’m Scottish and I try to get back to 
Glasgow as often as possible – we have a flat there. Despite 
having been raised down South, my children love their 
Scottish roots – that’s who they shout for when the  
rugby is on!

What’s been your proudest achievement at Greggs  
to date?
Due to the Covid pandemic, the last two years have been like 
nothing I have ever experienced before in retail. Adapting to 
work under Covid-secure conditions brought out the best  
in us as we fought to maintain our services in all parts of our 
business, whether in our shops, supply chain or amongst our 
colleagues who were working from home. Our shop teams 
remained enthusiastic and committed as the Covid 
guidelines evolved over time and ensured our customers 
received the same warm welcome and tasty products they 

know and love. The pandemic put great pressure on all  
of our colleagues, but in true Greggs fashion, we stood  
by each other and the communities that we serve.

Through the tireless work of colleagues and the Greggs 
Foundation, we ensured supporting our local communities 
stayed at the heart of our approach and we pulled out all  
of the stops to help families struggling throughout the 
pandemic. That, we can all be proud of. 

Growing our delivery partnership with Just Eat, and at  
such pace, is also something I am really proud of. From  
initial trials in 2019, to rolling out to 600 shops when the 
pandemic hit, to now over 1,000 shops nationwide, it’s an 
exceptional example of cross-functional working, with a 
number of teams across the business pulling together to 
make it happen.

Tell us about a cause that is close to your heart?
Fresh Start, definitely. The first thing I was asked to do  
when I arrived at Greggs was to help run a development 
programme in a women’s prison. We wanted to see if  
we could use our skills to help women back into work.

Originally, we didn’t see a direct connection with Greggs but 
after I’d met and talked to these women, I knew we could 
help them more directly. So many of them lacked confidence 
and had given up hope but I knew that, with support, they 
could be a real asset to our business. 

Children of female offenders often end up in care which is  
a tragedy for whole families and communities. To turn their 
lives around, these women need a stable home and a steady 
job. We can’t help with the former, but we knew we could 
help with the latter – and Fresh Start was born.

I often think about the first woman we placed. She was 
released on temporary licence, so we had to collect her from 
prison every day and drop her back at the end of her shift. 
With support, she became a permanent Greggs employee 
and was able to get her children back from social services. 
The Fresh Start programme isn’t about numbers: it is about 
making a real difference, one person at a time. I’m incredibly 
passionate about it.

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I feel very supported by the whole Operating Board – all my 
colleagues are exceptionally bright, capable and passionate 
people and it’s an honour to be invited to lead them on the 
next stage of Greggs’ exciting journey. 

What’s first on the ‘to do’ list as Greggs  
Chief Executive?
Roger and I have a shared vision for Greggs’ future because 
we’ve already been working on it together for years! It’s 
making the handover process nice and smooth. I am excited 
about pushing ahead with our strategic plan, turning Greggs 
into a destination for every mealtime by extending opening 
hours into the evening, and maximising our use of digital 
technology to grow our delivery business too.

I feel lucky to have joined Greggs when I did back in 2010.  
It is a huge privilege to lead a business with such strong 
values. Greggs started out as a family business, and it  
still feels like one – our people are at the heart of what  
we do. As I take the baton from Roger, my key remit is to  
protect and nurture the culture and values that make 
Greggs, Greggs.

Q&A WITH ROISIN CURRIE, CEO DESIGNATE CONTINUED

I now chair the leadership group of the Employers Forum  
for Reducing Re-offending, a voluntary role working with  
the Ministry for Justice and New Futures Network.  
I encourage other businesses to see for themselves how 
providing an opportunity can turn someone’s life around: 
just meet these people and you will find out for yourself  
that they can be fantastic employees. If we can break the 
cycle of re-offending, we can change lives and improve  
our communities.

Have you experienced barriers as a woman?
Throughout my career, I’ve been extremely fortunate to 
work with bosses and colleagues – male and female – who 
have been incredibly supportive. When I was on maternity 
leave with my first child, I was invited to put my hat in the 
ring for a director-level job that I’d always wanted but I said 
no; I didn’t think I could balance being a new mum with a 
promotion at work. My previous boss called me to help me to 
see that, with the right support in place, I could do it. It was  
a vote of confidence; a guiding hand at the small of my back; 
a little nudge forward. It is something I now always try to  
give good people around me – both men and women – who 
need a little extra confidence to do brave things.

Did you need any encouragement to take on  
the Chief Executive role?
Roger was hugely influential on my journey to this point  
and has always encouraged me. He has been a mentor for 
some time, and we had a long conversation before I agreed 
to be considered for the job. He and our Finance Director, 
Richard Hutton, encouraged me to apply for a scholarship 
programme for women to attend the senior executive 
programme at London Business School which is for people 
with the potential to take on a bigger role, such as Chief 
Executive. That helped me to mentally prepare for this  
new role and how I would want to do it.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcOUR STRATEGY IN ACTION

Our ambition is to reach at least 3,000 shops and we 
have a strong pipeline of new shops opening. We also 
have a significant opportunity to improve the quality 
of our estate through relocations and the next 
generation of shop refits. 

GROWING 
AND DEVELOPING 
THE GREGGS 
ESTATE 

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcOUR STRATEGY IN ACTION CONTINUED

Greggs is a versatile brand. That means we can open a full 
range of formats in a variety of locations, with our new digital 
channels enabling us to extend the reach of each shop even 
further, serving our customers wherever, whenever and 
however they choose.

150Target net shop openings per annum 

103New net shops opened in 2021

Our mission is simple – we want Greggs to be convenient and 
wherever our customers need us. And by ensuring our shops 
are the best they can be, our customers have a brilliant 
experience when they visit us. 

As well as opening new shops, we want our existing shops to 
be bigger and better which means improving all of our shops 
through our next generation of shop refits and moving some 
shops to better locations. 

New shop openings
When a customer is choosing where to shop for food-on-
the-go, we know that convenience is the key consideration. 
We already have a strong presence in traditional towns and 
suburban locations, so will continue to focus on increasing 
our presence in locations where people travel, work and/or 
access by car. 

We opened 103 net new shops in 2021, growing the estate  
to 2,181 shops. Covid has led to more premises becoming 
available which, in turn, has seen rents fall, providing  
Greggs with a significant opportunity to accelerate  
its shop opening programme. 

We continued to grow our presence in Central London, 
opening a number of new shops, including our first in  
Canary Wharf, King’s Cross Station and Marylebone Station 
– and we have a strong pipeline and exciting new locations  
in development for 2022. We also opened six standalone 
drive thru shops – the first being Bognor Regis in August.

Bigger and better shops through refits and relocations 
In addition to opening new shops and growing our estate, we 
are focusing on improving the quality of our existing shops 
through the next generation of shop refits and relocations.
In 2021, we put the finishing touches to our newest design of 
shop refits, maximising space and increasing our capabilities 
in food preparation so we realise the potential of both our 
delivery and Click + Collect digital channels. Roll out will  
begin in 2022 with a target of 250 shops. 

Based on this latest design we plan to move more shops to 
larger, better premises, aiming to relocate up to 50 shops  
per annum, allowing us to add more coffee shop seating  
and deliver multi-channel growth.

Increasing customer reach through  
our franchise and wholesale partners
We currently have 12 franchise partners and 375 franchise 
locations. Our partners play an important role in providing 
access to restricted locations such as motorway service 
areas, petrol filling stations, educational establishments and 
smaller high street convenience locations. In 2021, we were 

proud to celebrate our 200th shop opening with longstanding 
franchise partner Euro Garages at Shavington, Crewe. We 
expect franchise shops to account for 20% of our estate in 
the years ahead. 

In 2021, our longstanding partnership with Iceland saw 
record-breaking sales for a second year running, as many 
more customers enjoyed their Greggs favourites at home. 
We extended our product range in Iceland to include our 
Vegan Sausage Roll, Vegan Steak Bake and exciting new  
Pie range, which were well received and we continue to 
explore range development.

PLANS FOR 2022
We are accelerating our shop opening 
programme and have a new annual shop 
opening target of 150 net new shops, 
comprised of 100 company-managed  
shops and 50 franchised shops.

We will also focus on providing bigger and 
better shops by targeting 50 relocations  
and 250 refits.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021 
 
OUR STRATEGY IN ACTION CONTINUED

EVENING 
TRADE 

We have a strategic opportunity to compete for  
food-on-the-go sales in the evening and are extending 
the trading hours in many of our shops, adding new  
and exciting items to our menu and leveraging all  
of our customer channels. 

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcOUR STRATEGY IN ACTION CONTINUED

8.5mJust Eat delivery orders fulfilled 

The opportunity
Greggs has 16.5% of the breakfast market and nearly 10% of 
the lunchtime market but just 1% of the dinner time market 
(source: NPD/Crest ). Market research shows that 35% of 
food-to-go sales occur after 4pm so, by closing most shops 
at 6pm, we are missing out on that potential revenue.

We therefore have a strategic opportunity to extend the 
trading hours in more of our shops in order to compete  
for food-on-the-go sales in the evening. 

Extending opening hours
Initial trials were based on offering the existing menu and 
were well received. But we believe by tailoring our menu  
to meet customer expectations at that time of day, the 
opportunity will be even greater. 

500 

Late opening shops in the year ahead

PLANS FOR 2022
Where possible, we will extend all shop 
openings to 6pm, with 500 of our shops open 
until 8pm offering delivery and hot food menu 
trials. This will be supported with regional 
marketing activity.

Our partnership with Just Eat
We launched our partnership with Just Eat in 2020 and, 
since then, have rolled it out to over 1,000 shops nationwide. 
In 2021, we served over 2.17 million customers and fulfilled 
8.5 million delivery orders.

Offering home delivery is key to accelerating our plans for 
extended opening hours and we have big plans to further 
expand delivery in the coming year, adding more locations 
and more menu choices to strengthen our proposition at 
every meal occasion.

Menu development
Market research shows us that over 30% of customers 
surveyed believe that our existing menu has options suited  
to the evening – so we are not starting from a zero base.

Popular items include Chicken Goujons and Bites and Pizza 
Sharing Boxes alongside our single slice and meal deal 
offers. Our customers also use delivery for sweet treats  
and doughnuts which have sold well. We have a number of 
menu trials underway to help us provide more of what our 
customers want at this time of the day. 

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STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021 
OUR STRATEGY IN ACTION CONTINUED

Through our digital channels, we have the 
strategic opportunity to compete more 
effectively at all times of day. Our delivery 
partnership enables us to increase the reach 
of our shops beyond customers passing by, 
and Click + Collect offers our customers  
the ability to easily browse our menu, skip 
the queues and ultimately personalise  
their order. 

DIGITAL 
CHANNELS

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcOUR STRATEGY IN ACTION CONTINUED

When the pandemic hit in 2020, we rapidly accelerated our 
multi-channel development strategy to take Greggs to our 
customers. Digital channels offer the key opportunity for 
Greggs to increase market share by increasing multi-channel 
reach, customer loyalty and menu choice.

Rolling out delivery to more shops
We launched our partnership with Just Eat in June 2020 and 
delivery already accounts for more than 7% of sales – a huge 
achievement in such a short period of time. Delivery offers 
the added attraction of serving multiple customers in one 
order, with average basket size three times that of a typical 
walk-in purchase.

We are looking to embrace the opportunity to reach even 
more customers by rolling out delivery to more shops, 
increasing capacity and improving our operational 
procedures to fulfil demand. 

1,300 

Shops partnered with Just Eat  
by end of 2022

Click + Collect
Using Click + Collect, customers can easily browse our menu, 
skip the queues and personalise their order. In 2021, we 
integrated our Click + Collect service with our new Greggs 
App and have worked hard to build the capability that allows 
customers to earn and redeem rewards for these purchases 
as well. Another key feature is the ability to access more 
information about each menu item which now includes 
improved nutritional and allergen information to help 
everyone to make informed choices.

Made-to-order
Our breakfast sandwich range offers customers the ability  
to customise their sandwich and have it made-to-order.  
This has proved hugely popular, and our digital channels  
are enabling us to do this for other product categories too, 
extending choice from our existing ingredient list. Click + 
Collect is also encouraging customers to trade up, speeding 
up service by removing payment at the till, and, by making  
to order, has the potential to reduce waste too.

PLANS FOR 2022
With a growing delivery market, we will  
extend our delivery partnership with Just Eat  
to 1,300 shops, helping us to fully maximise  
the evening trade opportunity. Product 
development, in particular hot food options 
across all mealtimes, will ensure we continue  
to provide what our customers want, no matter 
what time of the day they choose to shop with 
us. We will also further develop our ‘made-to-
order’ range to enable customers to personalise 
their orders, starting with pizza toppings,  
then moving on to baguettes. 

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STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTS 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
OUR STRATEGY IN ACTION CONTINUED

We have successfully repositioned the Greggs brand in  
recent years to become recognised as a customers’ favourite 
for food-on-the-go. Through timely and effective customer 
communication via our new Greggs App, website and CRM 
system, we have a strategic opportunity to effectively 
communicate how Greggs can be a brand considered  
by more people, in more places and at all times of day  
when they need food-on-the-go.

MAKING GREGGS 
MEAN MORE TO 
MORE PEOPLE 

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcOUR STRATEGY IN ACTION CONTINUED

As a brand we’ve never had so much to talk about – whether 
that’s our latest products, the new evening menu, exciting 
new shop formats and locations, delivery, the Greggs App, 
our latest brand partnership or The Greggs Pledge. The 
development of our Customer Relationship Management 
(CRM) capabilities is allowing us to talk to customers in a 
more personal and targeted way than ever before.

We are encouraging more customers to visit us more often, 
and experience the wide choice of menu that we offer 
throughout the day, every day. Targeted communications  
will help us to ensure that the Greggs brand – and all we have  
to offer – is front of mind for food-on-the-go customers across 
the UK. The more reasons we can provide for them to consider 
us, the more likely we are to be their next brand of choice. 

Developing the Greggs App and website
To ensure that we can continue to develop and enhance our 
digital propositions, we developed the Next Generation 
Greggs workstream, with a focus on bringing all of our digital 
and data capabilities in-house. This means we now design, 
build and run all of our digital products ourselves, and are 
continually learning and improving how we meet our 
customers’ ever-changing needs and expectations as 
technology develops.

Our first step in 2021, was to launch our new Greggs website, 
for the first time building and managing greggs.co.uk using 
internal resources rather than relying on external partners. 
We successfully launched the new look website in line with 
our latest brand standards, all built on a much more secure 
and flexible content management system. Since launch, 
we’ve introduced many new features, such as our news 
section, Flake News, and dedicated campaign pages to 
support various marketing initiatives, providing a destination 
for customers to click to access more information. 

How other brands use Greggs to reward  
their customers and employees 
Our business to business (B2B) sales channel is now three 
years old and has gone from strength to strength, growing 
into a high volume offering that allows us to work with lots  
of other brands. Our business customers typically offer  
our products as a reward or gift for their employees or 
customers, through buying gift cards, e-gifts or product 
codes in bulk. 

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Later in the year, we launched our new Greggs App continuing 
our journey of owning and managing our own digital products. 

These partnerships allow us to drive awareness of the 
Greggs brand with different audiences and encourage  
more people to visit our shops and enjoy our products.

Most of our existing users switched over to the new App and 
are now enjoying a new experience, where they can earn 
stamps and redeem rewards on our products. They can also 
find out about the different services available in each of our 
shops, and use the improved nutritional and allergen 
information to make better informed choices.

Keeping in touch with our customers via CRM
CRM has a huge role to play in successfully delivering our 
five-year plan. In essence, it allows us to talk to our 
customers, and prospective new customers, on a regular 
one-to-one basis, whether that be via email, SMS or the 
Greggs App. In turn, the information we get back can help 
inform and shape our strategies so we can serve our 
customers even better.

PLANS FOR 2022
We have an exciting roadmap for 2022 to 
improve all our websites, including making  
it easier to use our gift cards and further 
developing our Greggs App. We’re working on 
ensuring our B2B proposition is even more 
appealing, so that we can attract even more 
partners to Greggs as a way for them to gift our 
products to their customers or employees. 

We will continue to develop our new CRM 
capabilities, allowing our teams to talk with our 
customers like never before and continue our 
journey to offer additional and personalised 
services and offers across multiple channels.

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STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTS 
 
 
 
 
OUR STRATEGY IN ACTION CONTINUED

Over recent years, we have transformed our supply chain and systems 
infrastructure to create a centralised food-on-the-go business model.  
Our ambition to double sales revenues will require significant investment  
in manufacturing and logistics to increase capacity. 

INVESTING IN OUR 
SUPPLY CHAIN  
AND SYSTEMS  
FOR A BIGGER 
BUSINESS

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcOUR STRATEGY IN ACTION CONTINUED

In recent years, our supply chain and systems infrastructure 
have undergone significant and essential transformation. 
We’ve made better use of space and invested heavily in 
centralised automation, delivering a step-change 
improvement in the quality of our products and our supply 
chain cost structure. This has also allowed us to create a 
template on which we can build additional capacity and 
continue to grow as a business to fulfil our ambition to 
double sales revenues.

2021 was a year of big achievements and major milestones: 
we opened the doors to our new automated frozen 
distribution centre at Balliol Park in Newcastle, approached 
the end of our SAP systems roll out and our teams worked 
tirelessly to prepare for Natasha’s Law.

New frozen distribution centre
We successfully opened our new automated frozen 
distribution centre at Balliol Park in Newcastle, an investment 
of £26 million. The new facility has capacity for 14,000 pallets, 
allowing us to consolidate our manufactured frozen products 
into a single point of storage and distribution, leveraging cost 
and efficiency savings, as well as providing much-needed 
capacity for growth for many years to come. Bringing storage 
in house and all under one roof has had a hugely positive 

impact in reducing the annual carbon footprint of this 
operation. Attending the official opening on 21 September, 
Ian Durant commented:

“This is not only an important development 
for the Balliol site but also for Greggs as a 
business. By bringing together the majority 
of our frozen storage under one roof, this 
facility will not only improve efficiency, but 
will also have a hugely positive impact on 
reducing our carbon footprint – a key focus 
for us as outlined in The Greggs Pledge.

“To have built a facility of this scale and 
complexity at any time would have been an 
achievement, but to have built it during a 
global pandemic makes the achievement  
all the more remarkable!”

Completion of our major process and systems 
investment programme
We nearly completed our multi-year implementation of  
SAP with the roll out of our supply chain solutions, further 
accelerating our digital transformation programme. We  
also increased capacity and resilience in our IT network and 
migrated our business intelligence to Microsoft Power BI. 
With this new platform in place, we see significant 
opportunities to grow our digital capabilities and enable 
more efficient operations, which will see a programme of 
continuous improvement as the business grows.

Natasha’s Law
We successfully implemented our new sandwich labelling 
system to comply with Natasha’s Law, safeguarding 
customers with allergies. Our customers are at the very heart 
of our business, and we were fully supportive of the proposed 
change in legislation from the very first consultation, 
believing strongly that the availability of information and the 
safety of our customers is paramount. We want to ensure 
that all customers have accurate allergen information 
available, so they can make an informed and safe decision 
when shopping with us.

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Our colleagues have done an incredible job of getting us 
ready for Natasha’s Law. It has been an exceptional example 
of cross-functional working across the business, all with a 
shared vision and common goal of keeping our customers 
safe. While the pandemic created a unique set of challenges, 
our focus on allergens and preparing for ‘prepacked for 
direct sale’ changes remained a key business priority.  
The new system will also provide the platform on which  
we will go on to develop our made-to-order services  
offering product personalisation.

PLANS FOR 2022
2022 will be another big year for our supply chain  
as we invest in further increasing capacity and 
productivity by introducing additional production 
lines at our Balliol and Enfield sites, and enhanced 
logistics to support product distribution in the South. 

Digital will continue to be a key focus for our 
teams in 2022, with exciting plans to transform 
our existing till platform, recruitment and 
colleague engagement systems and the 
introduction of a new Information Security 
Management System to manage cyber risk.

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STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTS 
 
 
 
 
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

We use eight key financial performance indicators to monitor the performance of  
the Group against our strategy. The definition of these KPIs and our performance  
over the last five years is detailed below. The profit, cashflow and ROCE KPIs have  
been amended during 2019 to take account of the impact of IFRS 16. 

Underlying
Including exceptional items

Total sales growth

51.7%

Like-for-like sales growth

Profit before tax (PBT)

Diluted earnings per share (pence)

52.4%

£145.6m

114.3p

2021

51.7%

2021

52.4%

2021

£145.6
£145.6

2020 -13.7
-13.7

2019

2018

2017

£114.2

£108.3

£89.8

£82.6

£81.8

£71.9

114.3p
114.3p

2021

2020-12.9p
-12.9p

2019

2018

2017

89.7p

85.0p

70.3p

64.5p

63.5p

55.7p

What this means
Reflects the performance of the Group 
before taxation impacts and the underlying 
measure excludes any exceptional items 
arising in the year. 

Why this is important
This is a measure of the absolute 
performance of the Group. 

What this means
Calculated by dividing profit attributable  
to shareholders by the average number of 
dilutive outstanding shares. The underlying 
measure excludes any exceptional items 
arising in the year.

Why this is important
This measure reflects the underlying 
earnings for each share in the Company.

-30.5%

2020

-36.2

2019

13.5%

2018 7.2%

2017 7.4%

2020

2019

9.2%

2018

2.9%

2017

3.7%

What this means
The percentage year-on-year change 
 in total sales for the Group. 

Why this is important
This is a measure of the absolute growth  
of the Company.

What this means
Compares year-on-year cash sales in our 
company-managed shops, excluding any 
shops which opened, relocated or closed  
in the current or prior year. Like-for-like 
sales growth includes selling price inflation 
and excludes VAT. The impact of shop 
refurbishment is included in like-for-like 
sales growth. The calculation of these 
figures can be found on page 169. 

Why this is important
This measure provides valuable additional 
information on the underlying sales 
performance of the business and is  
a key measure used internally.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcKEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS CONTINUED

Results for 2020 were significantly impacted by the closure of the Greggs shop estate for most of the second quarter as a result of 
the Covid pandemic. All of the non-GAAP measures (other than like-for-like sales growth) detailed can be calculated from the GAAP 
measures included in the annual accounts. All of the underlying measures exclude the exceptional items detailed in Note 4 to the 
accounts. Commentary on these KPIs is contained within the financial review:

Underlying
Including exceptional items

Net cash inflow from operating activities  
after lease payments (£m)

Return on capital employed (ROCE)

Capital expenditure (£m)

Liquidity (£m)

£236.5m

23.0%

£54.3m

£268.6m

2021

2020 £1.5

2019

2018

2017

£169.5

£136.2

£116.9

£236.5

2021

-2.4

2020 -2.4%
-2.4%

2019

2018

2017

23.0%

23.0%

20.0%

19.0%

27.4%

25.2%

26.9%

23.7%

2021

2020

2019

2018

2017

£54.3

£61.6

£86.0

£73.0

£70.4

2021

2020

2019

2018

2017

£106.8

£91.3

£88.2

£54.5

£268.6

What this means
Operating profit adjusted for the impact  
of non-cash items, working capital 
movements and repayment of the principal 
on lease liabilities. The calculation of these 
figures can be found on page 170.

Why this is important
This represents cash flows that could be 
used for distribution of dividends or to  
fund our strategic objectives and is 
reflective of the strong cash-generative 
nature of the business.

What this means
Calculated by dividing profit before tax by 
the average total assets less current 
liabilities for the year. The underlying 
measure excludes any exceptional items 
arising in the year. The calculation of these 
figures can be found on page 169. As the 
ROCE figure is significantly impacted by the 
implementation of IFRS 16 an additional 
notional figure has been calculated to 
highlight the impact – the calculation of 
these figures can be found on pages 169  
and 170.

Why this is important
This is a measure of the return generated on 
capital invested by the Group and provides a 
guide to how efficiently we are generating 
profit with the assets used in the business.

What this means
The total amount incurred in the year  
on investment in fixed assets. 

Why this is important
This reflects the ongoing investment  
in the business over time.

What this means
This is calculated as cash and cash 
equivalents plus undrawn committed 
facilities, taking into account required 
minimum liquidity covenants. 

Why this is important
This measure provides useful information 
on the Group's net financial position.

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THE GREGGS PLEDGE

In February 2021 we launched The Greggs 
Pledge which declared ten things that we  
are doing to help make the world a better 
place by 2025, and beyond.

We have always been committed to doing the right thing, but 
we wanted to be more specific about how we channel our 
efforts and resources into doing good. We reflected on what 
we could do to have the most positive impact on the world 
around us, and have chosen to dedicate our efforts to three 

areas: communities, the planet and our approach to 
business. We have set ourselves ten stretching targets to  
be achieved by 2025. Each of our pledges aligns with at least 
one of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Stronger, healthier communities

Safer planet

Better business

We pledge to become a carbon-neutral,  
zero-waste business. 

We pledge to increase the diversity of our workforce, 
and to use our purchasing power responsibly, with the 
aim of making things better in our supply chain.

5.  Going carbon neutral: By 2025, we will be on our way  

8.   Embracing diversity: By 2025, our workforce will reflect 

to achieving carbon neutrality by using 100% renewable 
energy across all of our operations.

6.   Building the shops of the future: By 2025, 25% of our 
shops will feature elements from our Eco-Shop ‘shop  
of the future’ design.

7.  Using less packaging: By 2025, we will use 25% less 
packaging, by weight, than in 2019 and any remaining 
packaging will be made from material that is  
widely recycled.

the communities we serve.

9.   Sourcing sustainably: By 2025, we will have a robust, 
responsible sourcing strategy in place and will report 
annually on progress towards our targets.

10. Protecting animal welfare: By 2025, we will secure and 
maintain Tier 1 in the BBFAW Animal Welfare standard.

We pledge to play our part in improving the nation’s 
diet by helping to tackle obesity, providing free 
breakfasts to schoolchildren, and giving surplus  
food to those most in need.

1. 

 Growing Greggs Breakfast Clubs: By 2025, we will 
support 1,000 school Breakfast Clubs providing some 
70,000 meals each school day.

2.   Putting an end to food waste: By 2025, we will create  
25% less food waste than in 2018 and will continue to  
work towards 100% of surplus food going to those most  
in need.

3.   Supporting our communities: By 2025, we will have  

50 Greggs Outlet shops providing affordable food in areas 
of social deprivation, with a share of profits  
given to local community organisations. 

4.   Helping our customers to make healthier choices:  

By 2025, 30% of the items on our shelves will  
be healthier choices, and we will attract customers 
through education and promotions.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSUSTAINABILITY REPORT CONTINUED

Our progress so far

IN 2021… 

How did we do? 

  Achieved 

  Partially achieved 

  Still to be achieved

686 Greggs Breakfast Clubs fed 
more than 44,500 children every
school day.

We re-distributed 28% of all unsold 
food in our shops and reduced
manufacturing waste by 31% 
(as a % of sales).

We have 20 Greggs Outlet shops up 
and running – with a further ten in 
the pipeline for 2022.*

32% of the items on our shelves are 
healthier choices.

We’ve assessed the carbon 
footprint of our whole value chain.

We've created the Eco-Shop 
template.

We’ve joined the On Pack Recycling 
Label (OPRL) scheme to make 
recycling communications easier 
to understand.

500 managers attended an 
Inclusive Leadership workshop.

We completed our review of soy 
across all our ingredients, joined 
the UK Roundtable on Sustainable 
Soya, and signed up to the  
UK Soy Manifesto.**

We’ve created a roadmap to 
achieve a Tier 1 rating in the 
Business Benchmark on Farm 
Animal Welfare.

PLANS FOR 2022

Increase Greggs Breakfast Clubs  
to 760.

Further 10% reduction 
in manufacturing waste and 
increase food redistribution  
by a further 10%.

Expand our Outlet estate 
to 30 shops.

30% of all the new products we 
create to be ‘Healthier Choices'.

Complete our Supplier 
Engagement Plan and publish our 
science-based targets.

We will open our first Eco-Shop in 
2022 and a further 250 shops to 
have Eco-Shop elements.

Include OPRL label on all own brand 
packaging and build roadmap  
to move all own brand into 
‘recyclable criteria'.

Achieve National Equality  
Standard Assessment. 

Publish our Deforestation Policy, 
map supplier compliance and plan  
to be deforestation free by 2025. 

Ensure chicken stocking densities 
are a maximum of 38kg/m2. 

*  we've increased our Outlet shop numbers from 13 to 20 in 2021. Although this means we missed our target of 30, we’re still proud of the progress we have made
**   we wanted our direct purchases of soy to be ‘Identity Preserved’ (meaning that we can trace back to the origin, e.g. the farm or field, and can then make a valid claim that its from a sustainable source and not related to deforestation) by the end 

of 2021 but didn’t achieve that. However, we did complete our review of soy across all our ingredients, joined the UK Roundtable on Sustainable Soya (RTSS), and signed up to the UK Soy Manifesto

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SUSTAINABILITY REPORT CONTINUED

TASK FORCE  
ON CLIMATE-RELATED 
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURES

As a responsible organisation, we understand the 
importance of reducing our impact on the climate.  
We also believe that improved governance and 
reporting across all industries and sectors will 
support carbon reductions across society, so  
we welcome the introduction of the Task Force  
on Climate-related Financial Disclosures 
recommendations and recommended disclosures. 

The Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures 
(TCFD) and other climate-related disclosures made in this 
TCFD report form part of the Company’s annual report and 
accounts for the 52 weeks ended 1 January 2022 and are 
consistent with the TCFD recommendations and 
recommended disclosures. 

Climate change and carbon is a complex subject, and we 
look to further develop and refine our reporting in future 
years. In the following pages of this, our first TCFD report, 
we have included an overview of our activity to date and our 
plans and expectations for the future, as required under 
Listing Rule 9.8.6 (8)R.

Our ambitions
During 2021, we launched our first sustainability plan,  
The Greggs Pledge. In it, we committed to making Greggs  
a carbon neutral business by 2040 and to actively support  
the British Retail Consortium’s Climate Action Roadmap. 

38

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSUSTAINABILITY REPORT CONTINUED

In line with this Roadmap, we aim to achieve net zero across our 
own operations (Scope 1 and 2) by 2035 and across our value 
chain (Scope 3) by 2040. 

Metrics and targets
As part of our strategy to manage climate change risks,  
we have committed to becoming a net zero carbon business 
by 2040 in line with the BRC’s Climate Roadmap:

• Scope 2: Net zero by 2030 
• Scope 1: Net zero by 2035 
• Scope 3: Net zero by 2040 

We report on our Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions 
each year. The detailed disclosures and methodology can  
be found in the following pages. 

We are currently working with the Carbon Trust on 
developing and gaining approval for our science-based 
carbon targets, aligned with a 1.5OC scenario. The 
methodology for modelling our emissions is developed  
in line with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol. The baseline year 
chosen is 2019, as it is the most recent year with complete 
and verifiable data. 

During 2021, we worked with the Carbon Trust to model our 
Scope 3 emissions which revealed that these account for 
over 90% of our overall footprint. Collaborating with those 
outside our operations is paramount to achieving our net 
zero goals. In 2022, we will engage with our value chain to 
align longer-term climate change ambitions and plan to 
introduce additional supplier-related metrics into our 
reporting, beginning with the 2022 annual report.

Governance
Our Board has overall responsibility for overseeing climate-
related risks and opportunities meaning that our approach  
to climate change is governed at the highest level within our 
organisation. We expect to see this as a topic of increasing 
focus in the future. 

The Board delegate elements of its responsibility to the 
following committees, management groups and individuals:
 – The Audit Committee is responsible for reviewing and 

approving our TCFD disclosures annually. 

 – The Remuneration Committee is responsible for 

determining remuneration policy and how climate-related 
factors are considered when determining incentive 
packages on an annual basis. 

 – The Operating Board is responsible for the delivery of our 
sustainability and climate change strategy, as led by the 
Chief Executive. This includes ensuring our strategy is 
aligned with our purpose, vision, values and culture on at 
least a quarterly basis. Additional engagement is included 
where required, for example, to review new opportunities, 
as proposed by the Head of Sustainability. 

 – The Company Secretary and General Counsel has 

responsibility for overseeing the implementation of the 
sustainability strategy and our climate change agenda 
including reporting into the Main Board on at least a 
quarterly basis. Additional reporting is included  
where required. 

 – The Head of Sustainability is responsible for proposing 

options for the direction and strategy of all sustainability 
issues. In addition, the role is responsible for assessing 
and reporting on climate change risks and reporting this 
into the Company Secretary and General Counsel for 
further review by the Main Board and Operating Board. 
The Head of Sustainability also reports formally to the 
Operating Board, on progress against agreed targets and 

commitments, on a quarterly basis. 

 – Dedicated Sustainability Working Groups were created to 
support delivery of our sustainability targets, namely  
The Greggs Pledge and net zero. These cross-functional 
working groups provide operational leadership in the 
delivery of our sustainability and climate change targets 
and commitments. 

 – Where appropriate, management have personal 

objectives aligned to the net zero and The Greggs Pledge 
annual plan. Performance against these objectives is 
reported to the Head of Sustainability on at least a 
quarterly basis.

The Board has received specific briefings and updates  
on progress during the year on climate change matters, 
including the results from our Scope 3 modelling, the 
developments of our science-based targets and our 
short-term net zero targets and actions.

Strategy
Climate change and its associated risks and opportunities 
has long been important to us and our stakeholders. 
Although we have not previously completed formal scenario 
analysis, taking action to address the effect of material 
climate change impacts is embedded into our business. 
Publication of The Greggs Pledge in 2021 is evidence of this.

As part of our Scope 3 analysis work in 2021, we have 
developed our approach to scenario analysis and will use  
this in 2022 to further inform our risk management approach 
relating to physical and transitional climate risk. We will 
provide an update on this in our 2022 TCFD report. 

We continue to develop our understanding of our exposure  
to climate-related risk, which falls into two categories – 
physical and transitional.

39

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Transition risk 

Physical risk 

Risks related to changes in the social and 
economic landscape that are likely to occur as 
a result of transition to a low carbon economy:
 – Policy 
 – Market
 – Technology
 – Reputation

Depending on the speed of transition, varying 
levels of risk will exist:
 – Increased costs as a result of policy change
 – Reduced revenues/turnover as a result of 

changes in customer preferences

 – Ability to transition to technology changes 
at an asset level and associated costs of 
doing so

 – Reputational impact if deemed to be slow to 

transition 

 – Timing of transition is uncertain and is 
largely dependent on external factors 
 – Current expectations are that transition 
risks will manifest themselves in more  
detail in the short to medium term

 – Continuing to develop our vegan range
 – Ongoing review of low carbon technology 
for current operations (Balliol National 
Distribution Centre development, move  
to hybrid car fleet) 

DEFINITION

POTENTIAL  
IMPACTS 

TIMING 

INITIAL  
MITIGATIONS 

40

Risks related to the physical impact of climate change:
 – Acute – Extreme weather events, e.g. heatwaves, droughts, extreme rainfall and flooding 
 – Chronic – Longer-term climate shifts, sustained higher temperatures, rises in sea level, 

changes to average rainfall, changes to weather patterns

 – Direct impacts preventing operations (e.g. storm damage, flooding, risks to health and safety) 
 – Indirect impacts impacting supply chain

 – Acute risks are already occurring, as evidenced by the flooding of our Treforest site in 2020 
 – Chronic risks are expected to become more material in the longer term and will be affected  

by global efforts to reduce temperature increases in line with climate science

 – Insurer survey of sites that are at greater risk of flooding 
 – Flood protection measures implemented at our Treforest site 
 – Climate risk assessment for new sites 

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSUSTAINABILITY REPORT CONTINUED

Transition risk 

Physical risk 

2022 ACTIVITY 

 – Ongoing review of technology opportunities 
for Scope 1 emission reduction (e.g. low 
carbon logistics fleet, low carbon van fleet) 

 – Wider communication of our approach to 

climate change to all stakeholders 

 – Scenario modelling to more clearly inform 

future strategy and risk mitigation

 – Publication of science-based targets and 
identification/implementation of actions 
required to achieve milestones

 – Further analysis of risks related to acute and chronic climate events. This will then inform  

the development of more detailed climate change related risks in our risk process

Through our approach to governance, we continue to identify 
and quantify climate risks and look to build mitigation of 
these risks into future planning. This includes climate 
consideration in our investment and longer-term strategic 
direction and financial planning. As an example of this, our 
Balliol National Distribution Centre frozen storage facility 
investment included a requirement to consider carbon 
emissions, and this has resulted in a reduction in 
comparative emissions (against previous operational 
emissions) of over 30%. 

The introduction of our new vegan products is helping to 
bring new customers into Greggs as well as providing options 
for existing customers who want to reduce meat in their diet. 
In 2022 we are investigating the use of product eco-labelling 
to establish if this will support customer shift to lower 
carbon products. 

Risk management
We have an established risk process as described in the risk 
management section on pages 59 to 63. The process for 
identifying, assessing and managing climate-related risks  
is part of this process. We do not treat our climate risks any 
differently to others, assessing them in line with our 
Enterprise Risk Framework.

However, climate is a longer-term risk whereas our principal 
risks are generally focused on the short to medium term. 
Whilst undesirable, we do not believe that a single event 
would have a significant adverse impact on the business  
at the present time (as an example, the actions taken to 
mitigate operational impact resulting from the flooding of 
our Treforest site in 2020 demonstrate how our business 
continuity approach supports mitigation of climate risk).

We consider climate change to be an emerging risk area  
for the business, and we continue to assess and review 
developments to ensure we would include it as a principal 
risk when apparent. As we further embed our enterprise  
risk approach across the business, we will establish wider 
involvement in – and visibility of – our climate-related risks.

Climate-related risk is discussed in our Risk Committee and 
is now included as a standing agenda item.

Our plans for 2022 include considering our resilience under 
various climate change scenarios (a 4oC rise, a 2oC rise and  
a 1.5oC rise in global temperatures by 2050). Climate risk 
considerations will be built into our strategy setting and 
financial planning processes and we will provide an update  
in the 2022 TCFD report.

41

Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSUSTAINABILITY REPORT CONTINUED

Our carbon 
footprint

We, like others, recognise the urgency needed 
to address climate change. We continue to 
hold the Carbon Trust Standard in recognition 
of our work on carbon efficiencies and our 
Environmental Management System is 
certificated to ISO 14001:2015. 

In addition, we disclose our GHG emissions through the Carbon 
Disclosure Project (CDP). We continue to drive efficiencies to 
further reduce our carbon footprint in a bid to target a net zero 
impact. In 2021, we decreased our gross location-based 
intensity (tonnes per £m turnover) impact by 19.71%  
(compared to 2020 or 18.57% compared to 2019). 

As a result, our market-based carbon footprint for the 2021 
financial year was 40,230 tonnes of carbon dioxide and 
equivalent gases (CO 2e), with an intensity of 32.9 tonnes  
of CO 2e per £m turnover, which accounts for our efforts  
in generating and purchasing low-carbon energy.

2021 reduction in gross location-based 
intensity impact (tonnes per £m turnover) 

19.71%

42

Global GHG emissions data
In line with Companies Act 2006 (Strategic Report and 
Directors Report) Regulations 2013, we are reporting our 
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as part of our annual 
strategic report. Our GHG reporting year is the same as our 
financial year from 3 January 2021 to 1 January 2022. We 
have reported on all of the emission sources which we deem 
ourselves to be responsible for, as required under the Act. 
These sources fall within our operational control and 
financial boundaries and include emissions from 
manufacturing, retail and distribution sites and the operation 
of our distribution fleet, all of which are wholly based in the 
UK. We do not have responsibility for any emission sources 
that are outside of our operational control. The methodology 
used to calculate our emissions is based on the GHG Protocol 
Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard, Defra 
Environmental Reporting Guidelines and ISO 14064-3:  
2019 – Specification with guidance for the verification  
and validation of GHG statements.

Dual emissions reporting
Overall emissions have been presented to reflect both 
location and market-based methodologies, affecting both 
Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions.

Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting
In line with Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) 
requirements, we have also reported on the underlying 
energy used to calculate Group GHG emissions.

Where original data was provided in litres of diesel, gas oil or 
petrol it has been converted to kWh. The reporting boundary 
has been determined by operational control, whereby all 
emissions within operational control have been included 
within scope, i.e. Scope 1 and Scope 2. 

Energy efficiency initiatives
Greggs is committed to reducing the energy consumption 
and the carbon impact from its operations. We have set our 
target of net zero operational carbon emissions across the 
organisation by 2040 and have put in place a plan aligned to 
the BRC’s Climate Roadmap. We have moved to renewable 
electricity sources across 96% of our estate and will look to 
investigate other renewable energy sources for our 
remaining Scope 1 emissions.

In 2021 we measured our value chain emissions with Carbon 
Trust and found Scope 3 emissions account for 92% of all 
market-based emissions with emissions from Scope 3 
purchased goods and services (products) being the biggest 
impact. We will look to develop and focus our attention on 
where we have significant impact. We have developed a 
science-based target across Scopes 1,2 and 3 against a  
2019 baseline and will have these targets approved by the 
Science-Based Target Initiative in 2022. We’ve carried out 
numerous energy efficiency initiatives across the Greggs 
estate. These include:
 – Continuing with our LED lighting replacement 

programmes.

 – Investing in energy efficient equipment.
 – Completing our £26 million investment in a new cold store 
facility in Newcastle, which is now operational and brings 
third-party storage in-house (read more on page 51).
 – Purchasing a double decker vehicle which has a 50% 

greater carrying capacity and a subsequent reduction  
in kilometres travelled. We have plans to purchase a 
further nine double decker trailers in 2022.
 – Replacing high Global Warming Potential (GWP) 

refrigerants in refrigeration and air conditioning systems 
with lower GWP refrigerants.

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSUSTAINABILITY REPORT CONTINUED

Location & market-based emissions
Scope 13
Scope 1
Scope 2 (Location-based) 4
Scope 2 (Market-based)
Gross emissions (Location-based)
Gross emissions (Market-based)
Intensity measure (Location-based)

Intensity measure (Market-based)

Location-based method is provided for disclosure only 

UK Underlying energy use (kWh)
Total Scope 1 Energy use
Total Scope 2 Energy use
Total Energy use (kWh)

Combustion of fuel & operation of facilities
Refrigerants
Electricity purchased for own use (inc PV Generated & green tariff)
Residual electricity
Total Scope 1+2 CO2e emissions
Total Scope 1+2 CO2e emissions to account for use of renewable energy
Tonnes of CO2 per £m turnover
Percentage change 2021 compared with 2020
Tonnes of CO2e per £m turnover
Intensity percentage change accounting for renewable energy 2021 compared with 2020

Combustion of fuel & operation of facilities (Natural gas, fleet fuel oils, company cars & LPG)
Electricity

Current reporting 
year 2021 
(tonnes of CO2e)

Comparison  
year 2020 
(tonnes of CO2e)

Base year (2019) 
(tonnes of CO2e) 1

30,115
5,850
46,318
4,265
82,283
40,230
67.21
-19.71%
32.90
-11.92%

23,112
4,541
39,860
2,469
67,513
30,122
83.71

37.35

33,155
5,513
57,294
2,909
95,962
41,577
82.54
-18.57
35.76
8.00%

130,910,991
218,141,798
349,052,789

98,224,487
170,968,398
269,192,8852

141,717,583
224,154,292
365,871,875

1we are resetting our baseline year to 2019 to allow alignment with the baseline year for Science-Based Targets
22020 energy usage is reduced due to Covid restrictions and shop and supply site furlough

3UK only
4UK only

WE CONTINUE TO HOLD THE CARBON TRUST STANDARD IN 
RECOGNITION OF OUR WORK ON CARBON EFFICIENCIES AND  
OUR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IS CERTIFICATED 
TO ISO 14001:2015. IN ADDITION, WE DISCLOSE OUR GHG EMISSIONS 
THROUGH THE CARBON DISCLOSURE PROJECT. 

l

c
p
s
g
g
e
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43

Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021 
SUSTAINABILITY REPORT CONTINUED

GENDER OF 
WORKFORCE

We are proud of our reputation for bringing  
the best talent through the business regardless 
of gender and that 69% of our total workforce  
is female, almost half of our management 
population is female and, of the eight current 
Board posts, four are held by women.  
In January 2022, we were thrilled to announce 
the appointment of our first ever female  
Chief Executive. 

Board
Senior managers
Other managers
All employees

Female

3

56

247

17,321

Male

4

61

262

7,839

Total

7

117

509

25,174

Notes: Headcount figures at 31 December 2021. 69% of total workforce  
was female (17,321 of 25,174).

For info: There are 14 employees whose gender is recorded as ‘Unknown’, 
‘Undeclared’ or ‘Other’, hence the total figure of 25,174 is not the sum of the  
Female and Male totals.

44

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcOUR STAKEHOLDERS

ENGAGING WITH OUR 
STAKEHOLDERS

During 2021, the Board continued to 
consider the impact of Covid on all of its 
stakeholders, and in particular, taking  
into account the safety of our colleagues 
and customers, whilst at the same time 
developing the business and seeking to 
return as quickly as possible to normal 
trading patterns.

Section 172 statement
The following pages 46 to 54 comprise our section 172 
statement and describe how the Directors individually and 
collectively, acting in good faith, have exercised their duties 
over the course of the year to promote the long-term 
success of the Company for the benefit if its members as  
a whole, and in doing so have had regard to the matters set 
out in section 172(1) (a) to (f) of the Companies Act 2006.

45

Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcOUR STAKEHOLDERS CONTINUED

Strategic pillars

 1   Great tasting, freshly prepared food 

 2   Best customer experience 

 3   Competitive supply chain 

 4   First class support teams 

 5   The Greggs Pledge

CUSTOMERS

COLLEAGUES

SUPPLIERS

How and why we engage

Impact on Board decisions

How and why we engage

Impact on Board decisions

How and why we engage

Impact on Board decisions

 2  

 4  

 5    

 1  
Our customers are at the
heart of everything we do.
Understanding the role we
play in peoples’ lives is at the
forefront of how we plan and
operate, so we’re constantly
evolving our proposition to
remain relevant. 

By speaking to customers in 
shops, through our Customer 
Care and Insight teams, and
across our digital channels
– we’re constantly listening
and learning so we can
understand how best to
serve the nation.

46

During the year we have had 
to keep the health and safety 
of customers and colleagues 
at the top of our minds, as we 
continued to trade through 
the pandemic. The Board 
considered new shop 
openings, the relationship 
with Just Eat, developing 
Click + Collect, and there was 
a real focus on developing 
our App, website and CRM 
system to allow timely and 
effective communication 
with our customers. A 
cross-functional project 
team worked on further 
contributing to customer 
safety by the launch of our 
allergen labelling and 
sandwich production  
system across all shops 
ahead of the legal labelling 
requirement from  
1 October 2021.

 3  

 5    

 1  
Our people are what makes 
our business successful. We 
want to provide a great place 
to work, where they feel 
valued, want to stay with us 
and new employees want to 
join. In 2021, we saw a 
significant change in 
workforce availability, a 
shortage of skills (e.g. lorry 
driving) and an increased 
need for colleagues due to our 
shop opening programme. 
We continued to 
communicate with our 
colleagues through regular 
Chief Executive updates, 
partnership forums, 
colleague suggestion scheme 
‘Your Ideas Matter’, key 
calendar events and our 
annual Conference and 
Cascades. We extended our 
networks and listening  
groups to include ethnicity 
and disability.

We approved the 
continuation of Covid 
testing in our manufacturing 
sites, continued to provide 
protection against Covid and 
maintained protections in 
our shops, including perspex 
counter-top screens, hand 
cleansing and sanitising 
stations for colleagues  
and customers. 

As part of our annual 
negotiations with our union 
colleagues, we agreed to 
significant increases in pay 
rates, as well as backdating 
awards several months in 
recognition of the 
magnificent work done by 
our teams during difficult 
circumstances across 
the year.

 5

 3  

 2  

 1  
 4  
Although we manufacture the
majority of what we sell, we
are reliant on food ingredient
suppliers, services providers,
property landlords, sellers of
’goods not for resale',
including shop uniforms and
equipment, and many others
within our supply chain.

By working collaboratively
with suppliers who share
our values, we can produce
high-quality products while
having a positive impact
on people and the planet.
Regular meetings, joint
projects, supplier visits and
our annual conference are
just a few examples. 

We use the Ariba platform to 
qualify suppliers and a variety 
of tools to support our focus
on ethics and sustainability.

The Board acknowledged 
that many suppliers were 
having to face similar 
business challenges as 
those faced by the Company, 
including Covid-related 
absence, skills shortages, 
import and logistical 
challenges, and materials 
shortages. By hearing from 
the Chief Executive and 
members of the Operating 
Board, the Directors were 
able to factor these issues 
into their assessments of 
business performance.

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc       
OUR STAKEHOLDERS CONTINUED

SHAREHOLDERS

LENDERS

COMMUNITIES

How and why we engage

Impact on Board decisions

How and why we engage

Impact on Board decisions

How and why we engage

Impact on Board decisions

Following a temporary 
suspension of dividend 
payments during the 
pandemic, we announced as 
part of our half-year results 
in August 2021 that an 
interim dividend of 15.0p  
per share would be paid.  
A special dividend of 40.0p 
per share was declared on 
8 March 2022 and a final 
dividend in respect of 2021  
of 42p per share has been 
proposed, subject to 
shareholder approval. The 
Board has also indicated a 
return to its progressive 
dividend policy.

 4  

 5    

 2  
Our shareholders are the 
owners of the business, and 
we have obligations to keep 
them apprised of significant 
developments. We do this 
through our regular 
reporting schedule and 
through meetings with 
institutional shareholders 
across the year, conducted 
mainly by the Chief Executive 
and Finance Director. We 
hold an annual general 
meeting after which 
Directors mix with attendees 
whilst enjoying a Greggs 
lunch. Sadly in recent years 
we have had to exclude 
personal attendance 
because of Covid-19 
restrictions, but we hope  
to return to a degree of 
normality in 2022. 

 5

 3  

 2  

 1  
 4  
Greggs is a cash-generative 
business and historically has 
not needed to approach 
capital and debt markets  
to fund its growth strategy. 
With the onset of the 
pandemic, it became clear 
that it would be appropriate 
and prudent to have in place 
a formal bank facility, and 
consequently, towards the 
end of 2020, a revolving 
credit facility of £100 million 
was put in place with two 
commercial banks. Although 
that facility remains 
undrawn, as part of that 
ongoing relationship, the 
Finance team provide 
regular performance and 
covenant compliance 
updates to banking partners. 

In determining the use of 
cash resources, the Board 
has regard to a number of 
stakeholders, including 
shareholders (through the 
potential for dividend 
payments), colleagues 
(through pay awards and 
bonus entitlements) and 
pension scheme obligations 
through managing the 
scheme alongside the 
Trustee to ensure it is 
successful on its journey  
to de-risking in the next ten 
years. Should the Board 
authorise a draw down of  
the revolving credit facility,  
it would take that debt into 
consideration when 
determining the allocation  
of cash resources.

 5

 1  
The sheer ‘localness’ of
our operations and our
longstanding relationship
with The Greggs Foundation
helps us to better understand 
the needs of our communities 
and how we are best placed to 
make a positive impact. 
Through initiatives such as
supporting Greggs Breakfast
Clubs, our food donation
programme and working
with people in the community 
to help get them get back into 
employment through our 
Fresh Start programme, as 
well as facilitating fundraising
activities for many other
good causes, including
Children in Need and the
Poppy Appeal, we aim to
build stronger, healthier
communities – a fundamental 
tenet of The Greggs Pledge.

During the year the Company 
implemented operational 
changes to enable 
compliance with ‘Natasha's 
Law‘ on allergen labelling, so 
named following the tragic 
death of Natasha Ednan-
Laperouse in 2016, having 
eaten a sandwich to which 
she suffered a fatal allergic 
reaction. The Board 
approved a significant 
further donation in 
December 2021 to the 
Natasha Allergy Research 
Foundation, adding to that 
made in December 2019. The 
Board is anxious to support 
research into the causes of 
allergies in the hope that 
tragedies like that which the 
Ednan-Laperouse family 
suffered can be avoided.

47

Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcExpanding our LGBTQ+ colleague network

Our LGBTQ+ network was formed at our head office, 
Greggs House, a couple of years ago. This year they 
have been working hard to expand their network to 
include colleagues in other areas of the business. 

This meeting is chaired by one of the Commercial 
team. It is supported by two Operating Board 
sponsors, Richard Hutton and Malcolm Copland, 
and a number of Retail colleagues have joined in. 
Sandra Turner attended the meeting in November, 
where there were 12 colleagues in attendance and 
the topics discussed included:
 – The network’s vision and purpose
 – Network name
 – Pride 2022
 – Use of pronouns on name badges
 – Your Opinion Matters
 – Zero Tolerance Customer poster – part of 
supporting our retail colleagues with  
customer abuse

OUR STAKEHOLDERS CONTINUED

During 2021, the Board was again restricted in the number of face-to-face sessions with stakeholders that it was able  
to undertake. Nevertheless, through the use of video-conferencing, there were many opportunities for the Board to 
engage with stakeholders.

By stakeholder, some of the activities of and information provided to the Board in the year were:

Colleagues
Attendance at Greggs  
Negotiating Committee meetings 
Attending LGBTQ+ network  
group (see case study on page 48)
Attending opening of Balliol National 
Distribution Centre (see case study on 
page 51)
Updates on progress towards achieving 
National Equality Standard 
(see case study on page 49)

Findings from the Employee  
Opinion Survey

Customers
Progress report on App development

Shareholders
Declaration of interim dividend

Market insight presentations

Extension of RCF with lenders

Pricing strategy and impact of inflation

Virtual AGM

Natasha's Law compliance –  
monitoring and approval of the  
allergen labelling system  
(see case study on page 54)
Undertaking a review of franchise  
partner activity

Share register monitoring

Investor relations strategy review

Colleague engagement
The Board’s contact with its colleagues was again 
significantly impacted by the pandemic, with the priority 
being to ensure that colleagues who were not able to work 
from home were able to operate in as safe an environment  
as possible. For part of the year this has meant restricting 
visits to production sites for anything other than ‘essential‘ 
activities. Our shops have remained open throughout the 
year, save for isolated incidents where trading hours were 
reduced, or a shop even closed temporarily, whilst team 

members were either isolating themselves as a result of 
contracting Covid-19, or because of a family member’s 
isolation. So shop visits have been informal and restricted  
to ‘front of house‘.

Nevertheless, the Board was able to make good use of virtual 
communication tools to engage with a wide range of 
colleagues and hear their feedback. 

48

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcOUR STAKEHOLDERS CONTINUED
OUR STAKEHOLDERS CONTINUED

CASE STUDY: DIVERSITY  
AND INCLUSION 
As part of our moving towards achieving the National 
Equality Standard, we provided a training session to our  
Main Board and Operating Board. As part of that training, 
Directors were interviewed by EY prior to attending an 
‘Inclusive Leadership‘ workshop. This enabled EY to 
understand current views on cultural strengths and priorities 
in order to shape the content of the workshop. EY also spoke 
broadly to Directors about their personal involvement in 
driving Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) initiatives across teams, 
specifically in areas such as the approach taken when 
recruiting and promoting as well as understanding the 
culture of Greggs. 

Later in the year, National Equality Standard assessment 
interviews were conducted individually with each of  
the Operating Board and formed part of the National  
Equality Standard assessment process. The outputs  
from those sessions, alongside focus groups with our  
wider workforce and a colleague survey completed by  
over 4,000 colleagues to assess our cultural health,  
were fed into the assessment process.

Towards the end of the year, the assessment outcomes  
were presented to the Main Board. The were a number of 
areas for the business to be proud of with the top five being:
 – Culture – the assessment was overwhelmingly positive 

about the working culture and sense of inclusion  
at Greggs.

 – Learning and development – there is comprehensive 
learning available for colleagues including a strong 
induction and career pathway programme. This includes  
a strand for women’s development.

 – Colleague networks – the establishment of colleague 

network and listening groups across a range of different 
diversity topics including ethnicity, LGBTQ+ and disability.

And there were key priorities and focus areas identified  
for 2022:
 – Ensuring we continue to develop further a diverse talent 

attraction programme. 

 – Implement a cross-functional D&I steering group to 

review D&I plan and track progress.

 – Focus on updating and understanding our colleague  

 – Policies – clear policies were identified as being in place 

data to help inform decisions.

that support key diverse groups.

 – Adjustments and accessibility – a proactive approach is  
in place to provide adjustments and accessibility for a 
range of requirements.

 – Deliver Inclusive Management workshops across our 
Shop Manager, Supply Supervisor and Support Team 
Leader colleagues.

Building upon the knowledge taken from the interviews, 
the ‘Inclusive Leadership‘ workshop was developed.  
The session’s priorities included:
 – Understanding of the D&I imperative for Greggs.
 – An enhanced awareness of how each individual’s unique 

experience and view of the world has shaped their 
leadership style.

 – An appreciation of how external and internal influences 

can impact an inclusive workplace.

 – Ideas for a Greggs D&I strategy and a personal inclusive 

leadership legacy for Directors.

This workshop was then used as a basis to develop  
Inclusive Leadership and Inclusive Management  
workshops which were subsequently delivered to  
our 500-strong management population. 

49

STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcOUR STAKEHOLDERS CONTINUED

Board engagement sessions included the following:
Greggs Negotiating Committee (GNC) – July 2021
As part of Greggs’ longstanding relationship with recognised 
unions (Bakers Food and Allied Workers Union (BFAWU) and 
Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers (USDAW)), 
regular meetings are held covering a variety of topics, 
including trading, strategic initiatives, The Greggs Pledge 
and annual pay negotiations. The GNC is our national union 
forum which is attended by Sarah Woolley (General Secretary 
BFAWU) and union representatives from across the 
business. In July 2021, Ian Durant and Helena Ganczakowski 
attended a scheduled meeting to discuss the role of the Main 
Board, and the Remuneration Committee. This session 
primarily focused on building the team’s knowledge and 
providing information on the role of Main Board and more 
specifically the role of the Remuneration Committee and 
what the Committee has responsibility for. 

Topics that came up for discussion included whether there 
could be an employee representation on the Board, the value 
of the Chief Executive's salary vs the lowest paid colleagues 
in Greggs, how the variable pay elements were constructed 
and succession plans for key roles in the business, 
specifically the Chief Executive.

Retail Partnership Forum – September 2021 
The Retail Partnership Forum is made up of our union 
representatives from across retail and the teams specifically 
discuss operational issues across the retail estate. Sandra 
Turner attended as the Non-Executive Director having 
responsibility for overseeing colleague engagement.  
Key topics discussed in this meeting included visits to  
shop teams on their sites, getting back to ‘normal‘, and 
communication between the Main Board and colleagues  
in the business. 

50

Colleague engagement survey –  
Your Opinion Matters 
Additionally, all Directors were present at the meeting in 
November when the People team presented the findings of 
the latest colleague engagement survey – 'Your Opinion 
Matters' (YOM). The Board received a presentation from 
members of the People team on the outcomes of the YOM 
survey conducted in the third quarter of 2021. Response 
rates achieved included 64% overall (14,656 respondents), 
made up of 89% management and support, 65% in retail  
and 49% of supply chain. This compared with a response 
rate of 91% the last time the survey was undertaken in 2019. 
An engagement score is also calculated using four 
questions from the survey including: “I am proud to say  
I work for Greggs” and “I would still like to be working at 
Greggs in two years’ time”. The engagement score was 82%, 
a slight drop of 2% versus 2019, but given the colleague 
experience over the 18 months of the pandemic at the time 
the survey was undertaken, the Board considered this to  
be an excellent outcome.

For the first time, responses were measured with reference 
to declared ethnicity sexual orientation and disability, with 
overall levels of engagement similar to those reported for  
the whole responding population.

The Board was informed that each function would be 
producing an action plan in response to specific findings.

Rewarding the workforce
As a result of the onset of the pandemic in 2020, which led to 
all shops being closed for several months, and the ensuing 
lockdowns and reduced trading that followed, the Company 
reported a loss for that year, and was not able to share profits 
with colleagues as it had done for many years. The Board is 
delighted that as a result of the return to profitability in 2021, 
we are able to recommence our long tradition of sharing  
10% of our profits with employees, enabling them to share  
in our success.

Each year, members of the People team undertake 
negotiations with our relevant unions representing those 
colleagues covered under a collective bargaining agreement. 
Following the ballot, our shop teams receive a pay increase 
with effect from April in any year and our supply chain teams 
from January in any year. 

Over recent years, the pay award applied to our graded 
management population and Directors has reflected the 
base increase for our wider workforce and is generally 
applicable from January in any year. 

A similar position was set up for the 2022 pay award. 
However, the Board was cognisant of the continuing efforts 
being undertaken by all colleagues to keep the business 
going throughout the pandemic, and with continuing 
success. This recognition was in the context of a tough 
labour market where we required new colleagues to join the 
shop expansion and opening programme. A base pay award 
of 3.5% was agreed for all colleagues with an additional  
3% for our lowest paid colleagues in retail. Following 
discussions with the union, as a thank you to our teams,  
it was agreed to backdate the implementation of this  
pay award by five months. 

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc 
 
OUR STAKEHOLDERS CONTINUED

An increase of 3.5% was awarded to management and the 
award was backdated from January 2022 to November 2021. 
After careful consideration, Directors, and members of the 
Operating Board, also received a 3.5% increase, with no 
backdating. Further details are set out in the Directors‘ 
remuneration report on page 85.

The pension contributions (or cash equivalent) for Executive 
Directors are now on a phased downward trend to align with 
the majority of the workforce. The new CEO Designate, who 
was appointed to the Board on 1 February 2022, receives the 
same level of pension contribution as the majority of the 
workforce. Again, further details can be found in the 
Directors' remuneration report on page 89. To the extent that 
during 2021 Executive Directors’ pension contributions were 
not consistent with the majority of the workforce, the 
Company was not compliant with the Corporate Governance 
Code Provision 38, although as set out on page 98 of the 
Directors' remuneration report the Remuneration 
Committee has set out a timetable to attain full compliance, 
with the terms for the new Chief Executive already aligned.

Provision 36 of the Governance Code requires the 
Remuneration Committee to develop a formal policy for 
post-employment shareholdings. The Committee has 
developed such a policy and applied it only to new Executive 
Directors, and in this respect, it has been applied to Roisin 
Currie who joined the Board on 1 February 2022 as CEO 
Designate. To the extent that this policy has not been applied 
to the then current Executive Directors when the policy was 
developed, this may be interpreted as a non-compliance  
with Provision 36. The Committee will be reconsidering this 
point as part of its policy review later in 2022.

CASE STUDY: THE OFFICIAL 
OPENING OF BALLIOL NATIONAL 
DISTRIBUTION CENTRE 

In September 2021, the Company’s £26 million frozen 
storage facility was opened on a site adjacent to  
the savoury production facility in the North East  
of England. 

The opening was attended by the Directors, who  
were given a presentation by the site management 
team and were then able to tour the facility and see 
its operation.

The facility was approved by the Board in 2019,  
and constructed through 2020 and 2021 during the 
pandemic. The facility is of strategic importance  
to Greggs, bringing together the majority of the 
Company’s frozen storage requirements, improving 
efficiency, and has a hugely positive impact on  
reducing the carbon footprint – a key focus for  
Greggs as outlined in The Greggs Pledge.

At a short ceremony following the tour, the Directors 
were able to mingle with a number of colleagues who 
work in the facility. 

As part of his official opening speech,  
Ian Durant commented:

“ To have built a facility of this scale 
and complexity at any time would 
have been an achievement, but to 
have built it during a global pandemic 
makes the achievement all the more 
remarkable! I want to take this 
opportunity to thank everyone 
associated with the project for all  
of their hard work in getting us to  
this point, and also to thank the 
operational team who I know have 
been going up a steep learning curve.”

51

Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc 
Shareholders 
It was regrettable that, once again because of the pandemic,
we were unable to welcome shareholders to our annual
general meeting usually held in May in Newcastle upon Tyne.
Shareholders were given the opportunity to register to view
the meeting online and encouraged to use their proxy vote.

Because of the restrictions, no external shareholders were
permitted to attend the meeting in person, and the quorum
was made up of the Finance Director, Company Secretary
and one other employee shareholder. All of the Directors
were otherwise present virtually.

At that meeting shareholders agreed to change the articles
of association to allow fully for hybrid meetings in the future,
although the Board are hopeful that a physical meeting will
be possible on 17 May 2022, with shareholders present in the
room for the first time in what will then be three years. 

The Chair takes responsibility for ensuring that key
shareholders are aware of, and supportive of, the Board’s
approach to governance, networking widely across the
institutional shareholder population, and from time to time
meeting with larger shareholders.

Much of the regular interaction with shareholders and the
analyst community is undertaken by the Chief Executive and
Finance Director, particularly around the times of the release
of the preliminary and interim results. In between, the
Finance Director is in regular contact with the investment
community sharing details of the Company's performance
and strategy. Following key announcements, the anonymised
views of shareholders are reported to the Board by UBS and
Investec, the Company’s retained brokers, and press and
analyst feedback is provided by Hudson Sandler, the
Company’s financial communications consultants.

In early 2021, the Board consulted with a number of
institutional investors and proxy advisers over the
Performance Share Plan and Employee Share Option
Scheme awards made to the management population in
2018. Performance criteria had not been met as a result  
of the pandemic, and the Board asked shareholders whether
they thought it appropriate that nevertheless the
Remuneration Committee should exercise its discretion  
andallow 50% of awards to vest. Based on that consultation, 
the Board felt that, on balance, its proposal would not be
supported, and therefore it did not proceed.

OUR STAKEHOLDERS CONTINUED

Our other stakeholders
Our stakeholder population beyond our colleagues  
(and former colleagues through their pension scheme 
membership) encompasses our shareholders and the 
investment community including our lenders, our customers 
and the communities in which they live and work, without 
whom there is no Greggs brand, and our products and 
services suppliers who are such an integral part of the 
Greggs supply chain. We have set out on the following pages 
how the Board keeps apprised of significant developments 
across each of these groups.

Customers
The Board receives several reports and presentations across 
the year from the Customer Insight team, which helps the 
Board determine various commercial strategies, factoring in 
competitor activity, pricing and inflation, customer footfall 
for shop locations and marketing promotions. Specific topics 
covered in the year included:
 – Macro customer trends
 – Food-to-go market overview
 – Greggs and competitor performance in food to go
 – Brand health
 – Brand perceptions/satisfaction
 – Daypart performance
 – Business plan, deep dives:

 – Focus on delivery/evening/hot food
 – Focus on coffee
 – Focus on health

52

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc 
Other stakeholder considerations 
Greggs is committed to acting fairly between all 
stakeholders of the Company. The impact of the Company’s 
operations on the environment is covered in our 
sustainability reporting on pages 36 to 44. Details of  
our business conduct policy are set out on page 76.

OUR STAKEHOLDERS CONTINUED

Suppliers
The Chief Executive attended several so-called ‘top-to-top‘ 
meetings with key suppliers. These included Fairtrade,  
Quorn and Biffa. Reports on these meetings, and others, are 
shared with the Board so that key issues can be understood 
and factored into the Board’s decision-making processes. 
Quorn is a key partner in the development of the Board’s 
plant-based food development programme, and Biffa is  
a significant service provider to the Company’s waste 
management activity as part of The Greggs Pledge. 

Lenders
The revolving credit facility that was put in place in 2020 
remains undrawn. However, in December 2021 it was 
extended by one year, and will now expire on 8 December 
2024. Nevertheless, the Finance Director maintained 
relationships with the two commercial lenders, meeting  
with them virtually and in person to keep them informed  
on business performance.

53

Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcOUR STAKEHOLDERS CONTINUED

CASE STUDY: IMPLEMENTING 
NATASHA’S LAW

Following the tragic death of Natasha Ednan-Laperouse, 
who suffered an allergic reaction as a result of eating 
another brand's shop-made sandwich, the Board oversaw 
the implementation of a new shop production and labelling 
system, in order to ensure compliance with new laws that 
came into effect on 1 October 2021. The law change required 
businesses such as Greggs, who had not previously been 
required to label products, for example, sandwiches made 
each day in shop, with consumer information regarding the 
food contents, highlighting allergens in particular.

Shop teams were trained on use of the new system, and 
compliance with the law is monitored on an ongoing basis  
by the shops teams themselves, area managers and retail 
auditors, as part of the Company’s safety and compliance 
due diligence process.

Colleague engagement was key to landing this successfully 
in our shops and we worked closely with The Allergy Team,  
an organisation whose mission is ‘Helping families living  
with food allergies to thrive’, to produce a video which was 
shared Company-wide. The video helped our colleagues  
to understand the importance of food allergies and that  
they have a vital role to play in keeping families living with 
food allergies safe.

The business saw this as an opportunity to support shop 
teams responsible for in-shop production of sandwiches,  
by helping them to manage ingredients and quantities,  
keep sight of ingredient stocks and batches made and  
allow central teams to monitor ingredient usage and plan  
for replenishment. The output was an ingredient label  
placed onto every item packaged instore.

The new process was well received by colleagues  
and customers.

In November 2021, two of the lead project team were  
invited into a Board meeting to report on the success of  
the implementation, and to receive the Board’s thanks  
for their efforts and achievements.

The project team had a number of significant hurdles to 
overcome: the supply of the wrong equipment, delays to 
hardware delivery because of the Ever Given container ship 
episode in the Suez Canal, and the roll out and installation  
of multiple screens, tablets and label printers to over  
2,000 shops.

54

“ The system is easy to  
use and it makes sure  
we get the right stuff  
in our sandwiches.”

“ The video really made  
my team get how 
important this is.”

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcFINANCIAL REVIEW

Greggs came back strongly in 2021, restoring profitability and increasing 
the pace of growth in the shop estate. With comparatively modest 
capital expenditure in 2021 the Group’s cash position is very strong. 
This will be put to use in 2022 as we pursue our ambitious growth plans 
whilst investing further in the sustainability of the business and 
enhancing returns to shareholders.

Revenue
Operating profit/(loss)
Net finance expense
Profit/(loss) before tax
Income tax

Profit/(loss) after tax

2021 
£m

1,229.7
153.2
(7.6)
145.6
(28.1)

117.5

2020
£m

811.3
(7.0)
(6.7)
(13.7)
0.7

(13.0)

2019
£m

1,167.9
114.8
(6.5)
108.3 
(21.3)

87.0

Sales
Total Group sales for the 52 weeks ended 1 January 2022 
were £1,229.7 million (2020: £811.3 million, 2019: £1,167.9 
million). Sales continued to be affected by Government 
restrictions in the first quarter of the year but progressively 
improved as conditions eased. The comparative sales 
results for 2020 were significantly impacted by the closure  
of the Greggs shop estate for most of the second quarter 
therefore we have continued to report 2021 financial 
performance relative to the 2019 level.

Reporting ‘like-for-like’ sales (sales in company-managed 
shops with more than one calendar year’s trading history) is a 
key alternative performance measure for Greggs, as it shows 
underlying estate sales performance excluding the impact  
of new shop openings and closures. In reporting like-for-like 
sales in 2021 we have compared our performance with the 
equivalent period of 2019, generating a ‘two-year like-for-like’ 
KPI. The results across 2021 reflected the difficult conditions 
at the start of the year, followed by a strong recovery and 
then the impact of the Omicron variant and VAT increase in 
the fourth quarter:

Company-managed 
like-for-like sales 
compared with  
2019 level

Q1

Q2

Q3

Q4

2021

(21.5%)

2.8% 3.5% 0.8% (3.3%)

55

Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcTurnover

Profit before tax

£1,229.7m 
£146.5m

FINANCIAL REVIEW CONTINUED

Total Group revenue reflects sales from company-managed 
shops, which include delivery sales, and sales through 
business to business (B2B) channels with our franchise and 
wholesale partners. Whilst year-on-year comparisons are 
distorted by the closure period in Q2 2020, both company-
managed and B2B sales developed through the year as 
customer numbers recovered and we grew the size of the 
shop estate. We are still learning how delivery sales behave 
seasonally and under different trading conditions. Absolute 
delivery sales were strongest in the second quarter of the 
year and reduced slightly in the fourth quarter. The primary 
driver of B2B sales growth continues to be expansion of the 
franchised shop estate.

Company-managed 
shop sales
[£m relating to delivery 
channel]
B2B sales

Total revenue

Q1
£m

209

Q2
£m

280

Q3
£m

299

Q4
£m

311

2021
£m

1,099

[19.7]

[21.8]

[20.9]

[18.3]

[80.7]

27

236

30

310

35

334

39

350

131

1,230

Profit for the year
Profit before tax in 2021 was £145.6 million (2020:  
£13.7 million loss, 2019: £108.3 million profit). There were  
no exceptional items (2020: £0.8 million charge, 2019:  
£5.9 million charge).

Overall wage and salary cost inflation was 3.0% in 2021.  
The planned 2022 pay increase for operational teams was 
brought forward by five months, adding £4.5 million to  
costs in 2021. Looking forward, as a result of the latest pay 
awards overall wage and salary inflation is expected to be 
approximately 4.3% in 2022. In addition, the rate of National 
Insurance on wages and salaries is due to increase by 1.25% 
from April 2022.

As expected, the rate of food, packaging and energy cost 
inflation increased towards the end of the second half of 
2021 as forward contracts were renewed, and in the year 
ahead we expect that cost inflation in these areas will 
increase further. In addition, the restoration of the full  
rate of VAT on hot food and drink sales will be effective  
from the start of April 2022.

Shop occupancy costs continue to improve as we negotiate 
rent reductions on renewal of our commitment to leased 
properties. Greggs strong covenant is attractive to the 
landlords of shop premises and this is an important factor  
in gaining access to new catchments as well as improving  
our cost ratios where we already trade. In 2021 the ratio of  
IFRS 16 ‘right of use’ charges on leased property assets to 
company-managed shop sales was 4.9%, down from 5.1%  
in 2019, and we expect this ratio to improve further in the  
year ahead.

Taken together, the impact of inflation in employment and 
other input costs is expected to result in a cost inflation 
headwind of around 6-7% in 2022. A proportion of this is 
forward-covered but the outlook for many commodity  
costs remains uncertain. This has necessitated some  
price increases, which were made at the start of this year,  
and further changes are expected to be necessary. Our 
competitive pricing position is strong and, as ever, we will  
be protective of Greggs reputation for outstanding value  
for money in managing this inflationary environment.

As we reported at the half year stage, the improved 
performance and trading outlook of our shops resulted in  
us deciding to repay all Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme 
(CJRS) support claimed in the first half of 2021, a total of  
£4.9 million. The sector-wide business rates relief for retail, 
hospitality and leisure businesses temporarily reduced costs 
by £14.9 million in the first half of the year.

56

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcFINANCIAL REVIEW CONTINUED

The improved performance and trading outlook for  
our shops resulted in the net reversal of £2.2 million of 
previously-provided shop asset impairment charges.  
A further £1.3 million of impairment has been released  
in respect of land and bakery plant and machinery which  
is no longer considered to be impaired.

Financing charges
The net financing expense of £7.6 million in the year (2020: 
£6.7 million, 2019: £6.5 million) comprised £6.3 million in 
respect of the IFRS 16 interest charge on lease liabilities,  
£1.1 million of facility charges under the Company’s  
(undrawn) financing facilities and £0.2 million relating  
to the Company’s defined benefit pension scheme and 
foreign exchange losses.

Taxation
The Company has a simple corporate structure, carries  
out its business entirely in the UK and all taxes are paid here. 
We aim to act with integrity and transparency in respect of 
our taxation obligations.

The Group’s overall effective tax rate on profit in 2021  
was 19.3% (2020: 5.2% rate on losses, 2019: 19.7% rate on 
profit). The effective rate on profit in the year reflects the 
revaluation of deferred tax balances resulting from the 
expected increase in the Corporation Tax rate from April 
2023 and additional 'super-deductions' relating to capital 
expenditure in 2021.

The impact of super-deduction capital allowances will  
affect the Group’s effective rate of taxation in 2022. We 
expect the effective rate for 2022 to be around 17.5% and  
the effective rate for 2023 to be around 24.0%. Going 
forward the effective rate is expected to be around 1.0% 
above the headline corporation tax rate; this is principally 
because of disallowed expenditure such as depreciation  
on non-tax-deductible qualifying properties and costs of 
acquisition of new shops.

Earnings per share and dividend
Diluted earnings per share in 2021 were 114.3 pence  
(2020: 12.9 pence loss per share, 2019: 85.0 pence 
earnings per share).

The Board recommends a final ordinary dividend of 42.0 
pence per share (2020: nil). Together with the interim 
dividend of 15.0 pence (2020: nil) paid in October 2021, this 
makes a total ordinary dividend for the year of 57.0 pence 
(2020: nil). This is covered two times by diluted earnings per 
share in line with our progressive ordinary dividend policy, 
which aims to increase the dividend in line with growth in 
earnings per share.

The ordinary dividend is set at a level designed to provide 
capacity for the Group to invest in the many attractive 
opportunities for further growth. In situations where the 
Board concludes that the cash position is above the level 
required to support the Group’s investment and working 
capital needs its policy is to make an additional return to 
shareholders by way of a special dividend. In application  
of this policy the Board has declared a special dividend of 
40.0 pence per share, to be paid on 29 April 2022 to 
shareholders on the register at 25 March 2022. 

Subject to the approval of shareholders at the annual general 
meeting, the final dividend will be paid on 8 June 2022 to 
shareholders on the register at 13 May 2022.

Balance sheet
Capital expenditure
We invested a total of £57.4 million (2020: £58.7 million, 2019: 
£86.0 million) in capital expenditure during 2021. In addition 
to expenditure on new shops, key projects included the roll 
out of new coffee machines as we extend our capabilities in 
hot drinks, the completion of the Balliol Park automated cold 
store and investments in increased capacity for savoury and 
pizza production. Retail estate expenditure continued to be 
relatively low and will increase in 2022 as we increase the 

rate of company-managed shop openings and recommence 
the shop refurbishment programme.

Depreciation and amortisation on property, plant and 
equipment and intangibles in the year was £58.7 million 
(2020: £60.8 million, 2019: £59.9 million). A further  
£48.7 million (2020: £51.9 million, 2019: £50.8 million)  
of depreciation was charged in respect of right of use  
assets as a result of capitalised leases.

At our Capital Markets Day event in October 2021 we outlined 
ambitious targets to double turnover over the next five years. 
As well as investing in a faster rate of estate growth the  
plans require additional capacity in our manufacturing and 
logistics network. Our plans for 2022 include capital 
expenditure of around £170 million as we increase the pace 
of shop investment, invest in a new site to be the focus of our 
capacity expansion for southern England, and add further 
manufacturing capacity to our savoury manufacturing plant 
at Balliol Park in Newcastle upon Tyne. The required 
investment is planned to be funded from our existing cash 
reserves and future operational cash generation.

Management of return on capital
We manage return on capital against predetermined targets 
and monitor performance through our Investment Board, a 
management committee where all capital expenditure is 
subject to rigorous appraisal before and after it is made. For 
investments in new shops we target an average cash return 
on invested capital of 25%, with a hurdle rate of 22.5%, over 
an average investment cycle of eight years. Other 
investments are appraised using discounted cash flow 
analysis. With market conditions for the acquisition of shop 
sites being favourable we have been active in sourcing 
opportunities in locations such as transport hubs and in 
central London. Some of these sites will trade below  
their mature level in the short term but are expected to 
strengthen as the impact of the pandemic recedes.

57

Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcDiluted earning per share

Capital expenditure

114.3p 
£57.3m

capital. With a significant capital expenditure programme 
ahead it is appropriate to carry an above-normal level of  
cash into 2022; however, the Board’s assessment is that the 
Group is in a position to make an additional distribution to 
shareholders of £40.6 million. As indicated above, the Board 
proposes to do so by way of a special dividend.

The Company’s revolving credit facility, which runs to 
December 2024, allows it to draw up to £100 million in 
committed funds, subject to it retaining a minimum liquidity 
of £30 million (i.e. maximum net borrowings are £70 million). 
This facility is designed to provide protection to the business 
should it experience significant interruptions to trading.

With a strong cash position and committed facilities the 
Company is in a position to invest in its growth plans whilst 
supporting its many stakeholders and enhancing 
shareholder returns.

Richard Hutton
Finance Director
8 March 2022

FINANCIAL REVIEW CONTINUED

Working capital
We ended the year with Group net current assets of  
£59.2 million (2020: net current liabilities of £45.4 million, 
2019: net current liabilities of £66.4 million), the result of 
carrying a closing cash and cash equivalents position of 
£198.6 million (2020: £36.8 million, 2019: £91.3 million). 
Excluding cash and cash equivalents, net current liabilities 
have increased from £82.2 million to £139.4 million over the 
year. This reflects the increase in trade and other payables  
as turnover levels have recovered over the past year, 
reversing the outflow experienced in 2020.

Pension scheme
The net liability shown on the balance sheet for the 
Company’s closed defined benefit pension scheme was  
£2.4 million at the end of 2021 (2020: £11.9 million net 
liability). The improvement in the balance sheet position was 
mainly as a result of the increase in the discount rate applied 
to future liabilities. The scheme underwent a full actuarial 
revaluation in 2020, the results of which showed a deficit in 
funding. The Company is making additional contributions of 
£2.5 million each year from 2022 to 2026 to ensure that any 
funding requirements are met over the medium term as the 
scheme works towards full de-risking.

Cash flow and capital structure
The net cash inflow from operating activities after lease 
payments in the year was £236.5 million (2020: £1.5 million, 
2019: £169.5 million). At the end of the year the Group had  
net cash and cash equivalents of £198.6 million (2020:  
£36.8 million, 2019: £91.3 million).

In normal circumstances the Group aims to maintain a 
year-end net cash position of around £50 million to allow for 
seasonality in its working capital cycle and to protect the 
interests of all creditors. The current cash position is clearly 
above this level, reflecting the strength of performance in 
2021 and some short-term beneficial changes to working 

58

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc 
RISK MANAGEMENT
RISK MANAGEMENT

OUR APPROACH 
TO RISK 
MANAGEMENT

Understanding and managing our key risks is essential to enabling us to  
deliver our strategy and make sound decisions. Risk in the business cannot be 
avoided, but should be actively managed to help us to achieve our objectives. 
An effective and robust risk management process is fundamental to protecting 
the business, our customers and colleagues, and shareholder value. 

The various roles of those involved in the risk process are summarised in the diagram below: 

Main Board

Operating Board

Audit Committee

Risk Committee

Business Assurance  
function

Role
Direction & oversight

Role
Identify, assess & monitor risk

Key activities
Ongoing review of risk process; 
consideration of whistleblowing 
reports; assessment of 
principal risks & uncertainties

Key activities
Consideration of new & emerging 
risks highlighted by the business; 
review of key strategic risks & 
escalating as necessary

Role
Assurance on effectiveness  
of risk management & controls

Key activities
Management of risk register; 
arranging insurance cover  
for risks where appropriate

Our Board has ultimate responsibility for risk management 
across the business, and determines the nature and extent 
of risk we are prepared to take. The Audit Committee fulfils 
elements of the Board’s responsibility for risk which are 
delegated to it, such as reviewing the effectiveness of the 
overall approach, and receiving regular reports on assurance 
activity. Proactive risk management is the responsibility of 
the Risk Committee, which is a committee of our Operating 
Board and incorporates senior management representation 
from across the business. Throughout the business, the 
responsibility for operational management of risks sits 
within each function.

The Business Assurance function supports with the 
preparation and review of the risk registers across the 
business. The function also supports the Audit Committee in 
reviewing the effectiveness of our systems of internal control. 

Changes in 2021
Although our risk management approach is well established 
and embedded in the business, we have taken the 
opportunity this year to reflect on our methodology and  
look for improvements. We appointed Marsh Advisory,  
who helped us to redefine our key risks and update our  
risk management process.

We have refreshed our strategic risk listing, identifying 
anything which may hinder the achievement of our strategic 
objectives or our commitments under The Greggs Pledge. 
Our risks are categorised into four broad groups – strategic, 
operational, financial and legal/regulatory. Each risk is also 
linked to the relevant strategic pillars of our plan (including 
The Greggs Pledge) which would be impacted if the risk  
were to occur. 

Our new strategic risk register describes the causes and 
consequences of each risk, which is allocated to a risk owner 
from our Operating Board. Key controls are recorded, and 
their effectiveness in terms of design and implementation is 

59

Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcRISK MANAGEMENT CONTINUED

assessed. Residual risk is scored in terms of likelihood and 
impact, and we retain a trend of historic scoring. Actions 
taken and potential further mitigations are also recorded. 
We continue to review all of our key strategic risks at each 
Risk Committee meeting, to discuss any movement in the 
risk level, and determine whether any additional mitigating 
action is required. Risk owners provide an update on current 
and planned activity which may impact on levels of risk. 
Committee meetings take place at least three times a year. 
Where a significant risk is identified or there is a marked 
change in exposure, this is raised directly with the Operating 
Board to facilitate a timely assessment and response.

Plans for 2022
During the coming year, we plan to transfer our existing 
functional risk registers into the same format as that used 
for our strategic risks, to ensure consistency across the 
whole organisation. This will help us to ensure the ‘bottom-
up‘ approach for operational risk is clearly linked and aligned 
to the ‘top-down‘ approach for principal risks. It will also 
provide a standardised approach for identifying, measuring 
and managing risk.

We are developing a risk management tool which will  
enable us to produce a series of dashboards and visual 
representations of our risks. It will also allow us to capture 
future planned and potential mitigations more effectively,  
to inform our decision-making. 

Risk appetite
Risk appetite is the level of risk which we are prepared  
to accept in working towards our strategic priorities. 
Significant decisions taken by the business will always  
involve an assessment of the level of risk to which we may  
be exposed and the risk we are prepared to take. We will 
reassess our appetite for risk and formalise our assessment 
process in the coming months as part of our ongoing project. 
The Board will then include a consideration and approval of 
our appetite as part of its annual review of our risk 
management processes.

60

Changes to principal risks and our risk profile 
Principal risks and uncertainties are those which could result 
in a threat to our business model, future performance, 
solvency or liquidity, or significantly erode the value of the 
business. The key changes to principal risks and our risk 
profile identified by the Board are as follows:
 – Our previously identified risk relating to business 

transformation is no longer considered a principal risk, 
due to the project nearing completion. The impact of any 
delay or disruption is therefore significantly reduced. 
 – A previous risk relating to third-party relationships has 
been refined to focus on our franchise, wholesale and 
delivery partners.

 – We disclosed a risk relating to allergens and associated 
labelling requirements in our 2020 annual report, in 
response to the increased focus on this area and new 
legislation being introduced. These specific requirements 
are now embedded within our standard procedures, and we 
have redefined the risk more broadly to acknowledge this.
 – The Brexit risk has reduced since our last annual report, 

when there was significant uncertainty about the 
regulatory requirements and operational disruption. 
Although we still suffer some operational challenges, this 
is now treated as ‘business as usual’, so no longer merits 
disclosure as a principal risk. Similarly, our response to the 
pandemic is not a principal risk, as we have established 
ways of working safely. However, its ongoing impact is felt 
through a number of the other principal risks.

 – We are working with our cyber security specialists and 

other advisors to improve our management of our cyber 
and data security risk, due to the rapidly evolving nature 
and complexity of the threat. Projects are in progress 
across the business to increase our resilience, working 
towards the implementation of globally accredited 
standards. We have robust security measures in place  
to protect our network, and provide our teams with the 
knowledge and equipment to manage our cyber risk 
effectively. However, we consider our exposure to cyber 
and data security risk to be increased at the present time 
compared to that disclosed previously. 

Emerging risks
The identification and subsequent management of emerging 
risks forms a key component of our risk process. Such risks 
are raised and discussed at our Risk Committee meetings 
and, where appropriate, they are documented in the 
strategic risk register and escalated to the Board if the 
potential impact is significant. 

Emerging risks are identified using the following 
approaches:
 – Horizon scanning by the relevant subject matter experts 

in the business;

 – Monitoring consumer trends; and
 – Taking advice from third parties with whom we work.

Current areas of emerging risk which we are monitoring 
include climate change, our Environmental, Social  
and Governance (ESG) strategy and various changes  
to regulation. Further information on climate change risk  
can be found on pages 42 and 43 in our TCFD reporting.

Risk management framework
The Directors have carried out a robust assessment of the 
principal and emerging risks facing the business, focusing  
on those which would impact our business model or the 
achievement of our strategy, or threaten Greggs’ solvency  
or liquidity.

The following table sets out our principal risks, movement 
during the year and a summary of key developments and 
mitigations. This does not include all of our risks, and is not in 
priority order. Additional risks not presently known to us, or 
which we currently consider to be less significant, may also 
have a negative impact on the business. The exposure to 
each of the risks will change as we take mitigating actions,  
or as new risks emerge. The position stated below is a 
summary of the status at the date of the annual report.

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcRISK MANAGEMENT CONTINUED

1   Great tasting, freshly prepared food 

 2   Best customer experience 

 3   Competitive supply chain 

 4   First class support teams 

 5   The Greggs Pledge

Principal risks and uncertainties

What is the risk?

Key developments

Key mitigations

Strategic pillars

Movement

SUPPLY CHAIN 
DISRUPTION

There is a risk that we could be subject to a 
significant business interruption event impacting 
key operational locations. Examples include a 
physical damage incident, a prolonged power 
outage or denial of access.

External supply could also be disrupted, which 
would have an impact on our ability to operate  
our production sites.

Either of these events would impact our ability  
to supply our customers.

DETERIORATION OF 
RELATIONSHIP WITH 
KEY PARTNER

In addition to our company-managed shops, we also 
work with key franchise, wholesale and delivery 
partners to help us broaden our service offer. For 
this to be effective, we must be fully aligned in our 
strategy, goals and operation.

ABILITY TO  
ATTRACT/RETAIN/ 
MOTIVATE PEOPLE

DAMAGE TO 
REPUTATION

In an increasingly competitive labour market, we 
need to be able to offer opportunities which meet 
individual needs. Without the right people with 
appropriate skills, we are unable to offer the range 
and service levels which our customers expect. We 
may lose talented resource, resulting in increased 
workloads and greater training needs. Our Company 
culture may change as a result.

As the business grows, so does the risk of our  
brand reputation being damaged, and customer 
trust being lost if we fail to respond appropriately  
to an incident.

Our greater digital presence increases this risk  
due to the speed of public communication.

Working with a wider range of partners also results 
in greater risk, as we have less direct control.

We have contingency plans in place for our sites which  
are tested periodically.

Our new freezer facility has redundancy built into its 
design, allowing it to continue operating in the event  
of a breakdown to one of its primary systems. 

If a distribution centre is impacted, we are able to flex up 
operations at other centres to meet demand.

Insurance cover is in place, and we work closely with our 
insurers throughout the year.

We avoid single source supply for key ingredients, and 
implement contingency plans when necessary.

We work with respected brands, and have an  
onboarding process.

We have widened the range of partners with whom  
we are working.

Contracts and service level agreements are in place.

Franchise partners are subject to the same audit process 
as our company-managed shops.

We offer competitive remuneration and benefit packages, 
and flexible working arrangements.

Our teams are supported and developed through training 
and appraisal.

Opinion surveys and listening groups help us to identify 
where we can improve our approach to recruitment  
and retention.

1   2   3   4   

5

1   2   3   4

1   2   3   4   

5

Our company-managed shops and those of our franchise 
partners are subject to regular audits to make sure that 
appropriate standards are met.

We have a robust crisis management process in place. 

We work with PR agencies to support us where appropriate.

2   3

61

Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc 
 
RISK MANAGEMENT CONTINUED

1   Great tasting, freshly prepared food 

 2   Best customer experience 

 3   Competitive supply chain 

 4   First class support teams 

 5   The Greggs Pledge

Principal risks and uncertainties continued

What is the risk?

Key developments

Key mitigations

Strategic pillars

Movement

CYBER & DATA 
SECURITY INCIDENT

A cyber security incident could impact our IT 
infrastructure, potentially leading to the loss of 
data. This could cause operational disruption, 
litigation and fines, and reputational damage.

PROLONGED  
SYSTEM DOWNTIME/ 
INTERRUPTION

SIGNIFICANT FOOD 
SAFETY INCIDENT/ 
PRODUCT QUALITY 
ISSUE

Our systems are becoming more integrated and 
interconnected as we streamline the business and 
increase our reliance on technology. Any system 
issues therefore have a much greater impact, 
potentially resulting in disruption to operations  
and supply into our shops.

The products which we sell may be unsafe, or not  
of the expected quality. This could be caused by 
contamination, incorrect allergen labelling or 
procedures not being followed correctly. This  
would damage our reputation as a food retailer, 
could cause harm to our customers and affect  
our financial performance.

CHANGES IN 
REGULATORY 
LANDSCAPE

In an increasingly challenging regulatory 
environment, we need to be ready to adapt quickly 
to comply with any new legislation. In particular, 
environmental and health concerns may result in 
new requirements being implemented, which could 
require changes to our range. We have greater 
exposure in some areas than our competitors. 

SIGNIFICANT  
FINES FOR  
NON-COMPLIANCE

We are potentially exposed to large fines for 
legislative breaches across many parts of our 
business, such as Health and Safety, transport  
and environmental requirements. This would  
also damage the reputation of the business. 

62

Third parties provide expertise and support, including 
penetration testing.

2   3   4

Appropriate technical measures are in place and updated 
in line with changing requirements.

We have cyber insurance in place.

Training and education for colleagues, including a planned 
simulation exercise for the Operating Board.

We are implementing recognised information security 
control sets.

We continue to invest significantly in our IT infrastructure.

Multiple layers of resilience are built into our SAP system.

2   3   4

We work with partners to provide additional expertise 
when required. 

Internal and external audit and quality assurance 
monitoring processes are in place across our operations.

1   2   3   4   

We audit our key ingredient suppliers, based on the level of risk.

5

Defined specifications are in place for all of our 
manufactured goods to ensure consistency.

Training is provided on a regular basis to our teams.

Complaints are fully investigated to determine the root cause. 

Stringent hygiene measures are in place.

Regular horizon scanning activities are undertaken. 

Our Trade Association involvement and Government links 
allow us to monitor upcoming legislative changes. 

We also monitor new legal requirements, including 
information from industry forums.

1   2   3   4

Due diligence controls are in place across the business  
to monitor our compliance. 

1   2  

Audit processes confirm whether the correct procedures 
are being followed.

Modern slavery considerations are taken into account 
when we appoint new suppliers.

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc 
RISK MANAGEMENT CONTINUED
RISK MANAGEMENT CONTINUED

Viability statement
The Directors have assessed the Company’s prospects and 
viability taking into account its current position, plans and 
principal risks. The assessment has considered the 
continuing uncertainty around the pace of recovery from the 
pandemic, however given the recovery through 2021 this is 
less of a concern than it was at the prior year reporting date. 

In carrying out its assessment the Board has reviewed the 
three-year operational and financial plans to 2024. This is  
the period over which the Board reviews management’s 
business planning and sets performance targets, and 
therefore the Board believes that this is the most appropriate 
timeframe over which to make the viability assessment. 

The Directors have carried out a robust assessment of the 
principal risks facing the Company, including those that 
would threaten its business model, future performance, 
solvency or liquidity. The impact of the pandemic has been 
reflected in the risk that the entire business could be 
temporarily prevented from trading and be faced with 
prolonged periods of subdued demand, with consequent 
pressures on liquidity. 

The principal risks to which the Company is exposed 
ultimately affect the ability of its shops to trade successfully, 
either due to reduced demand or because of operational 
interruptions, including those to its internal supply chain.  
A significant loss of sales is particularly damaging given  
the Company’s vertical integration in that the cost of the 
internal supply chain cannot be reduced quickly.

In order to stress-test the Company’s financial resilience 
scenarios were created to simulate the impact arising from 
the occurrence of the following principal risks: 
1.  Pandemic threat – the risk that the Company is forced to 

close its shops to walk-in customers for three months as a 
result of lockdown rules, and experiences subdued levels 
of walk-in trade as the economy recovers. Delivery 
channel sales are assumed to continue through the 
lockdown months with a 50% increase in volume as 
customers switch channels, as are ‘bake at home’ sales 
through the Company’s wholesale relationship with 
Iceland Foods. This forward scenario assumes that 
Government support would continue to be available for the 
support of employment and that relief from business rates 
would be available during the periods of forced closure. 

2.  A brand-damaging food scare resulting in a significant 
one-year sales reduction followed by gradual recovery  
of confidence. In making assumptions the Directors 
considered real examples of companies in the food sector 
that had experienced such issues. 

3.  Temporary loss of production capacity for the Company’s 
iconic pastry savoury products and the consequences for 
liquidity as capacity is restored.

In each case the Directors reviewed the mitigating actions 
that would be necessary to protect the Company’s liquidity. 

These included:
 – The temporary suspension of dividend payments in order 

to preserve cash for operational use;

 – Restriction of capital expenditure whilst protecting 

essential infrastructure maintenance and commitments 
to strategic investments;

 – Access to Government support;
 – Drawing on existing committed financing facilities; and
 – Calling on the Company’s insurance arrangements on the 

occurrence of an insured risk.

The scenarios tested were capable of being managed within 
the Company’s existing, committed financing facilities. The 
pandemic scenario presents by far the greatest financial 
stress to the business, and this simulation does show a 
breach to the fixed interest cover covenant at one reporting 
date. Given the Company’s relationship with lenders, and the 
actions of banks through the original Covid-19 pandemic, the 
Directors believe it is reasonable to conclude that a waiver 
would be secured.

Given the opening cash position in 2022 the Company does 
have sufficient existing and committed financing facilities to 
manage in a situation where multiple principal risk scenarios 
occurred concurrently. This will likely not be the case in 
future years as we increase capital expenditure and dividend 
payments. In the event of multiple principal risk scenarios 
occurring concurrently which necessitate additional 
financing facilities the Directors believe that the borrowing 
capacity of the Company would be sufficient to allow it 
access to temporary additional facilities.

Covid-19 pandemic response
The Covid-19 pandemic has continued to impact the business 
throughout the year. Although our response has now become 
part of our ‘business as usual’ process, a summary of 
additional actions taken during the year to mitigate the risks 
facing the business is set out below. We continue to prioritise 
the safety, health and wellbeing of our customers and 
colleagues. 
 – Government guidelines continue to be followed as a 

minimum, with processes being amended as required to 
reflect changes.

 – Colleagues required to self-isolate have been supported.
 –  Where resource levels have been insufficient to operate 
safely, we have reduced our operating hours, or closed 
shops completely to allow us to consolidate our staff into 
fewer shops.

 –  Central support teams have continued to work from home 

where appropriate, to ensure that office capacity is 
managed. Our homeworking guidance and associated 
policies have been refreshed. 

 –  We have moved to a blend of virtual and physical 

meetings, to allow us to meet face-to-face where there  
is a benefit in doing so.

 – We have continued to engage with key external 

stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, advisors and 
Government agencies.

 –  Communication with our teams has continued, to ensure 
that everyone is aware of changes to process and the 
reasons behind them.

 –  Operational costs continue to be managed tightly across 

the business.

 –  Our digital roll out has continued at pace, giving us access 

to new customers via the Greggs App.

 –  Our partnership with Just Eat has been further expanded, 

to cover more of our estate.

 –  We are taking additional opportunities to expand and 

diversify our shop estate, for example, through increasing 
our presence in Greater London and engaging with new 
franchise partners to access travel locations. 
We believe that our ongoing response to the pandemic 
demonstrates the resilience and adaptability of the business.

The strategic report was approved by the Board of Directors 
on 8 March 2022 and signed on its behalf by

Based on the results of the analysis, the Directors have a 
reasonable expectation that the Company will be able to 
continue in operation and meet its liabilities as they fall due 
over the three-year period of their detailed assessment.

Roger Whiteside
Chief Executive
8 March 2022

63

Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSAnnual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcBOARD OF DIRECTORS AND SECRETARY

IAN DURANT
Chair

ROGER WHITESIDE 
OBE
Chief Executive

RICHARD HUTTON 
FCA
Finance Director

ROISIN CURRIE
CEO Designate

MOHAMED ELSARKY
Independent Non-Executive 
Director

KATE FERRY
Independent Non-Executive 
Director

HELENA  
GANCZAKOWSKI
Independent Non-Executive 
Director

SANDRA TURNER
Independent Non-Executive 
Director

JONATHAN JOWETT
Company Secretary  
and General Counsel

6464

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcBOARD OF DIRECTORS AND SECRETARY CONTINUED

IAN  
DURANT
Chair

ROGER  
WHITESIDE  
OBE
Chief Executive

RICHARD  
HUTTON  
FCA
Finance Director

ROISIN  
CURRIE
CEO Designate

MOHAMED 
ELSARKY
Non-Executive Director

Ian has a background in 
international finance and 
commercial management, with 
experience in the retail, property, 
hotels and transport sectors. His 
career includes leadership roles 
with the retail division of Hanson 
and Jardine Matheson, Hongkong 
Land, Dairy Farm International, 
Thistle Hotels and SeaContainers 
and as Finance Director of Liberty 
International. Ian is an experienced 
non-executive director of UK-listed 
companies, having previously 
served on the Boards of Westbury, 
Home Retail Group and Greene King. 
He was Chair of Capital and 
Counties Properties plc between 
2010 and 2018.

Appointed since
5 October 2011

Richard qualified as a Chartered 
Accountant with KPMG and gained 
career experience with Procter  
and Gamble before joining Greggs 
in 1998.

Roisin currently holds the position 
of CEO Designate, having been 
appointed to the Board on 
1 February 2022 from the role of 
Retail and Property Director. Prior 
to joining Greggs in 2010, Roisin 
worked at Asda where she held 
People Director roles responsible 
for the organisation’s retail and 
distribution operations. 

Mohamed is an experienced 
international food manufacturing 
executive, who has held senior 
positions in Kellogg, Danone and 
Godiva Chocolatier. He is currently 
Executive Chair of Artisan du 
Chocolat, and has previously held 
non-executive director positions 
including at Nomad Foods, a 
company listed on the New York 
Stock Exchange.

Roger began his career at Marks 
and Spencer where he spent 20 
years, ultimately becoming head of 
its food business. He was then one 
of the founding team of Ocado, 
serving as Joint MD from 2000 to 
2004. From 2004 to 2007 Roger led 
a successful turnaround as Chief 
Executive of the Thresher Group 
off-licence chain before joining 
Punch Taverns, ultimately 
becoming Chief Executive. Roger 
was appointed as Chief Executive  
of Greggs on 4 February 2013, and 
awarded an OBE for services to 
Women and Equality in the 2019 
New Year Honours List.

Appointed since
17 March 2008 (Non-Executive 
Director until 3 February 2013)

Appointed since
13 March 2006

Appointed since
1 February 2022

Appointed since
21 June 2021

Independent
Yes

Independent
n/a

Independent
n/a

Independent
n/a

Independent
Yes

Committee membership
Chair of Nominations Committee.

External appointments
Chair of DFS Furniture plc.
Non-Executive Chair – Warren 
Partners & Director of Employee 
Ownership Trust.

External appointments
Member of the Women’s Business 
Council. Non-Executive Director  
of Card Factory plc.

External appointments
Non-Executive Director and Chair 
of the Audit Committee of The 
Lakes Distillery Company plc. 
Trustee Director of Business in  
the Community. Trustee of  
Greggs Foundation. 

External appointments
Chair of the Employers Forum  
For Reducing Re-offending.

Committee membership
Audit, Remuneration and 
Nominations Committees.

External appointments
Executive Chair Artisan du Chocolat

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSGreggs plcBOARD OF DIRECTORS AND SECRETARY CONTINUED

KATE  
FERRY
Non-Executive Director

HELENA  
GANCZAKOWSKI
Non-Executive Director

SANDRA 
TURNER
Non-Executive Director

Kate is CFO at McLaren Group. Prior to that 
Kate was CFO of TalkTalk Group plc, having 
previously held positions on the Dixons 
Carphone plc Executive Committee, 
originally joining the Carphone Warehouse 
Group plc in 2010 as Corporate Affairs 
Director to facilitate the demerger  
from TalkTalk. 

Kate began her career in audit with 
PricewaterhouseCoopers, qualifying as  
a Chartered Account before moving to 
Merrill Lynch as a Director within the retail 
sector equity research team, where she 
spent the next ten years.

Helena worked for Unilever for 23 years 
and held senior positions in brand 
management and marketing, including  
UK Marketing Director and ultimately  
Head of Global Agencies. Helena has  
a PhD in Engineering from the University  
of Cambridge.

Sandra has been involved in the retail 
sector throughout her career and was 
employed by Tesco PLC, latterly as 
Commercial Director for Tesco Ireland, 
from 1987 to 2009. Prior to this she worked 
in sales and marketing roles for Unilever 
and Wilkinson Sword.

Sandra has held a number of non-
executive directorships in UK-listed 
companies, including McBride plc  
and Countrywide PLC

JONATHAN 
JOWETT
Company Secretary & General Counsel

Jonathan is a lawyer by profession  
and has held the position of Company 
Secretary for a number of FTSE 250  
and FTSE Smallcap companies.  
His previous employers include Avon 
Cosmetics Limited, SSL International plc, 
Wagon plc and Bakkavor Group.

Appointed since
1 June 2019

Independent
Yes

Appointed since
2 January 2014

Independent
Yes

Appointed since
1 May 2014

Independent
Yes

Appointed since
12 May 2010

Independent
n/a

Committee membership
Chair of Audit Committee. Remuneration 
and Nominations Committees member.

Committee membership
Chair of Remuneration Committee. Member 
of Audit and Nominations Committees.

External appointments
CFO McLaren Group.

External appointments
Senior Independent Non-Executive Director 
and Remuneration Committee Chair of Croda 
International Plc. Owner and manager of a 
consulting business working at a global level 
with multi-national food businesses, helping 
them to develop and implement strategies.

Committee membership
Senior Independent Non-Executive 
Director and Non-Executive Director 
having oversight of colleague 
engagement. Member of Remuneration, 
Audit and Nominations Committees.

External appointments
Non-Executive Director of Huhtämaki OYJ. 

Committee membership
Secretary to Board and all its Committees.

External appointments
Member of the British Retail Consortium 
Policy Board. Senior Independent 
Non-Executive Director of Newcastle 
Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

66

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcBOARD OF DIRECTORS AND SECRETARY CONTINUED

The Nominations Committee uses a skills matrix  
as it assesses the requirements for new recruits.  
This is shown below, with incumbents’ attributes:

Ian 
Durant

Kate 
Ferry

Helena
Ganczakowski

Mohamed  
Elsarky

Sandra 
Turner

Roger 
Whiteside

Richard 
Hutton

Roisin
Currie

UK PLC Executive Director experience

UK PLC Non-Executive Director  
outside Greggs

Finance/banking

Mergers and acquisitions

HR and Remuneration Committee experience

Food manufacturing experience

Food retailing experience

Food safety, Health and safety

International experience

Broader consumer sector experience

Marketing expertise

Digital expertise

Gender diversity

Ethnicity diversity

Corporate governance

6767

Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSGreggs plcGOVERNANCE REPORT – CHAIR’S INTRODUCTION

” BENCHMARKING 
SUGGESTS THAT  
THE BOARD IS  
HIGHLY EFFECTIVE.“ 

Grant Thornton 
Board evaluation report 
January 2022 

68

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcDIRECTORS’ REPORT

We undertook an externally facilitated evaluation of our 
Board and practices towards the end of the year, and 
appointed Grant Thornton (who have no connection with  
the Company or any individual Director) to assist with this. 
Further detail is set out on page 72. Whilst we were happy 
that the Board is considered ‘highly effective’, there are 
certainly areas for development, and with Board changes  
in prospect over the next 18 months, Grant Thornton’s  
report and suggestions will provide a useful focus. 

Our people
The Board is cognisant that our decisions affect the lives of 
our 25,000 employees and their dependents as well as those 
of our many suppliers and contractors. Thankfully we have 
not had to repeat the restructuring activity undertaken in 
November 2020, and as we have opened up more shops and 
reintroduced pre-pandemic shift patterns, we have been 
recruiting people into the business. 

GOVERNANCE REPORT CONTINUED

Dear Shareholder,
Welcome to my introduction to the Governance section of 
our 2021 annual report. As in 2020, much of our governance 
focus has been on the health and safety of our colleagues 
and customers and our ongoing response to the pandemic. 
You can see from the table on page 73 that this has not 
prevented us from overseeing a significant schedule of 
business across the year, which has included Board 
recruitment, operational updates and a strategic review 
which was shared with shareholders in October.

Board composition and roles 
Our Nominations Committee has had a busy year, appointing 
both Executive and Non-Executive Directors. As I note in my 
main statement at the front of this annual report, there is 
more to do as we execute our succession plan by recruiting 
additional Non-Executive Directors, and later in the year, 
seeking a new Chair to replace me, in respect of which our 
Senior Independent Director, Sandra Turner, will take the 
lead. More information is set out in on pages 71 and 72.

The planning for our search for a new Chief Executive 
commenced in 2019, but activity was suspended with the 
onset of the pandemic. During 2021, in my conversations with 
some of our largest institutional shareholders, I indicated 
that we hoped to be making progress in the year, and that I 
had been asked by the Board to remain as Chair beyond my 
nine-year term on the Board to complete the succession.  
As noted above, I anticipate stepping down later in 2022,  
with a longstop date of our annual general meeting in 2023. 

We were delighted to announce on 6 January 2022 the 
appointment of Roisin Currie as our future Chief Executive. 
Details of the appointment process are set out in this  
report, and it is proposed that Sandra and I will meet with 
institutional shareholders who would like to hear more  
detail of the search.

We welcomed Mohamed Elsarky as a Non-Executive Director 
in June, replacing Peter McPhilips who stood down after 
seven years’ service. Otherwise all of the Directors served 
throughout the year. Sandra Turner volunteered to take on 
Peter’s role as our Non-Executive Director having oversight 
of colleague engagement, and there is more information on 
our activities and decisions on page 73.

Board operations and responsiveness
As the waves of Covid-19 have ebbed and flowed, we have 
adjusted our Board arrangements to suit. At the start of  
the year, our meetings were held virtually, but we were 
delighted to be able to get together for our annual strategy 
meeting in early summer, and for our meetings for the 
remainder of the year. We were together in September,  
when we toured our new state-of-the-art frozen food 
distribution centre, and again in November when we  
visited our savoury production facility.

The partial relaxation of Covid restrictions has also meant 
that we have been able to resume our individual visits to  
our shops, speaking to colleagues and learning how the 
pandemic has affected them. We will be building on this 
through 2022 as we hope society and business learn to  
live with the legacy of the Covid-19 pandemic.

6969

Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT ACCOUNTSGreggs plcOur AGM 2022
Over the past two years we have greatly missed the 
shareholders who regularly come to our annual general 
meeting held in our native North East, and we hope that we 
will be able to welcome as many as possible to our meeting 
which will be held on 17 May 2022. We are planning for that 
meeting to be ‘in person’ for the first time since 2019, 
although we will have contingency plans in place should  
the pandemic take its toll for a third year. 

As always, I invite you to review the following pages which  
set out how we have complied with the UK Corporate 
Governance Code (2018) (which is available at www.frc.org.uk) 
across the year, and also our statement on pages 45 to 54 
describing how the Directors have fulfilled their duties to  
our key stakeholders under section 172 of the Companies  
Act 2006.

Ian Durant
Chair
8 March 2022

GOVERNANCE REPORT CONTINUED

Culture 
The way that our culture pervades the organisation is,  
I believe, a fundamental tenet of the sustained success  
that Greggs has achieved over recent years. It is a feature  
of every recruitment that we undertake, to ensure that we 
maintain our values of friendliness, inclusivity, honesty, 
respectfulness, being hardworking and appreciative of 
everyone. It is sometimes easy to underestimate the impact 
of this when reading words in annual reports, but it is quickly 
evident to anyone who joins or engages with the business. 
We recognise that culture is not immutable and nor is it 
consistent across a business of our size, and the Board  
will continue to monitor this closely and challenge  
ourselves accordingly.

Stakeholder engagement
We have continued throughout the year to engage with 
colleagues, and examples of the sessions attended by 
Directors are detailed on page 48. The Board has been kept 
informed of the developments in the business for listening  
to colleagues from minority sections of our workforce, 
including groups set up to hear about ethnicity, gender and 
sexual orientation, and how working for Greggs can have 
both a positive and negative impact on our colleagues from 
these parts of our society. We are committed to doing more 
to hear from and support all colleagues in the hope that they 
will recognise Greggs as a ‘great place to work’. Our diversity 
and inclusion activities are among the ten commitments 
launched in 2021 as part of The Greggs Pledge, and we are 
pleased to be able to report good progress in this report.

We incorporate by reference pages 45 to 54 of this annual 
report which set out how the Directors have met their 
obligations under s172 Companies Act 2006.

At the beginning of 2021, our Remuneration Committee sought 
the views of a number of institutional shareholders and proxy 
agencies regarding the possibility of exercising its discretion  
by allowing the vesting of a proportion of share-based awards, 
even though financial performance criteria had not and  
could not have been met as a result of the pandemic. Our 
management teams had worked incredibly hard during 2020, 
to overcome the significant impact of the pandemic, and the 
Remuneration Committee was of the view that soundings be 
taken from shareholders in the interests of fairness. Despite 
support from a number of shareholders, it was clear that, on 
balance, the Committee was unlikely to gain sufficient support 
for the proposal and therefore it was not pursued.

Committees
As noted above our Nominations Committee has had a  
busy year, as have other committees. Our Audit Committee 
oversaw the appointment of RSM as our Auditor, replacing 
KPMG after many years’ support. 

The Greggs Pledge
Our commitment to developing our approach to economic, 
social and governance (ESG) principles mainly comes in  
the form of our Greggs Pledge commitments, which were 
published in February 2021, and on which we provide our  
first full update on progress on page 37 of this report and in 
the separately published Greggs Pledge report 2021.

We are seeing increased interest in our approach to ESG 
from a variety of stakeholders, and we will be building our 
engagement levels, particularly as we set out on our journey 
towards achieving net zero carbon in the years to come.  
As an important milestone, we will now set science-based 
targets for achieving our contribution to the reduction in 
carbon emissions that is needed to protect  
the future.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcGOVERNANCE REPORT CONTINUED

Division of responsibility
The Board considers that all of the Non-Executive Directors 
are independent. Sandra Turner is the Senior Independent 
Director, and meets with the other Non-Executive Directors  
in the absence of the Chair at least once per year. There is a 
written statement of the responsibilities of the Senior 
Independent Director, duly approved by the Nominations 
Committee and the Board.

There is a clear written statement of the division of 
responsibilities between the Chair and the Chief Executive, 
and the Chair is considered by all of the Board to have been 
independent on his appointment, and that he remains so. 

As was highlighted in the annual report for 2020, and 
following an informal consultation with a number of major 
shareholders, the Board had asked the Chair to remain in 
post beyond the nine years now expected of a Non-Executive 
Director under the corporate Governance Code. This was to 
enable him to oversee the process of the recruitment of a 
new Chief Executive during 2021, and during a transition 
period in 2022. Ian Durant was appointed as a Non-Executive 
Director in December 2011, becoming Chair in May 2013, and 
so has now been on the Board for ten years and three months 
as at the date of this report. In this respect, the Company is 
not compliant with Provision 19 of the Corporate Governance 
Code. As set out later in this report, it is anticipated that in 
2022 a new Chair will be appointed allowing Ian to step down. 

Away from the Boardroom the Chair communicates regularly 
with the Non-Executive Directors, both collectively and 
individually, giving them plenty of opportunity to express  
their opinions and raise any concerns that they may have.  
The Board has three main committees, being Audit, 
Remuneration and Nominations, details of which are set out 
later in this report. Each committee has its own set of terms 
of reference, which are reviewed at least annually to ensure 
that they are compliant with the code and meet current  
best practice.

During the year, the Board generally schedules six formal 
meetings, and then on an ad hoc basis as required. Board 
meetings are well attended, and Board and committee 
attendance is set out in the following table:

Attendance

Ian Durant
Roger Whiteside
Richard Hutton
Helena Ganczakowski
Kate Ferry
Sandra Turner
Mohamed Elsarky
Peter McPhillips

Main  
Board

Audit 
Committee

Remuneration 
Committee

Nominations 
Committee

7/7
7/7
7/7
7/7
7/7
7/7
4/4
3/5

–
–
–
4/4
4/4
4/4
2/2
2/3

–
–
–
6/6
5/6
6/6
2/3
2/4

9/9
–
–
8/9
9/9
9/9
2/5
4/5

Notes:
Mohamed Elsarky joined the Board on 21 June 2021. For a period towards the end  
of the year he was undergoing medical treatment in Australia and was not able to 
attend all of the scheduled Nominations and Remuneration Committees.

Roisin Currie joined the Board on 1 February 2022, and consequently was  
not present at Board meetings during the year other than as an attendee  
on various topics.

Peter McPhillips stepped down from the Board on 31 July 2021. He did not attend 
the strategy meeting held in June 2021, and was absent during a suite of meetings 
held in May for personal health reasons.

Board composition, succession and evaluation
During the year, there were two changes to the Board of 
Directors. Peter McPhillips stepped down from the Board  
on 31 July 2021, and Mohamed Elsarky joined the Board on 
21 June 2021 ahead of the two-day strategy meeting.

Since the turn of the year, on 6 January 2022 the Board 
announced that Roisin Currie, its then Retail and Property 
Director would join the Board on 1 February 2022 as CEO 
Designate, and would become Chief Executive following the 
AGM scheduled for 17 May 2022. Roger Whiteside gave notice 
of his retirement from the Company on 5 January 2022, and 
he will step down from the Board following the AGM, and leave 
the Company on 5 January 2023.

NON-EXECUTIVE  
DIRECTOR INDUCTION

In June 2021, the Board appointed Mohamed 
Elsarky as an Independent Non-Executive 
Director. Details of Mohamed’s background  
are set out on page 65.

As part of the appointment of any new Director, a 
number of engagements with colleagues are set 
up to familiarise the Director with all operations, 
including those in shops, at production and 
distribution sites, and at Head Office. On joining 
the Board, Mohamed was taken around a variety  
of Greggs and competitor shops by the Retail 
Director and a Head of Retail, and around a supply 
site and a distribution centre with the Supply 
Chain Director. Mohamed also met with all of  
the Operating Board Directors and members of 
their teams. 

Once a new Non-Executive Director has been on 
the Board for around six months, they are asked to 
present to the Board their ‘first impressions’. This 
provides feedback on strategy, processes and 
procedures including the induction process, and a 
view on key strategic priorities for the future. This 
facilitates further debate and discussion around 
the Board table, with agreed areas for attention in 
the coming months. In particular it helps identify 
areas within the induction process where greater 
or lesser focus may be appropriate.

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The Board will continue through a period of change, and  
is now setting about recruiting at least one further Non-
Executive Director in the first half of 2022, to replace Helena 
Ganczakowski and Sandra Turner whose terms expire in 
2023 having then served for nine years on the Board. Sandra 
will lead the Nominations Committee in the appointment of a 
new Chair, expected to occur during the second half of 2022.

The Nominations Committee’s responsibilities are set out in 
written terms of reference, available on the Company’s 
website. Its primary responsibility is to ensure plans are in 
place for orderly succession to the Board and Operating 
Board. The Board Chair is chair of the Committee, and all 
Non-Executive Directors are members. The Chief Executive 
is a regular attendee at meetings, and from time to time the 
Finance Director is also invited. The CEO Designate will also 
be in attendance on occasion.

During 2021, the Nominations Committee was tasked with 
recruiting a new Chief Executive, anticipating that Roger 
Whiteside would wish to retire before reaching the age of 65. 
The Nominations Committee appointed Heidrick & Struggles 
(who have no connection with the Company or any individual 
Director) to advise and assist in the search for a Chief 
Executive. The key stages of that process are set out below, 
and consisted of:
 – A market mapping exercise to determine the candidate pool.
 – The identification of 20 potential candidates, with 13 of 

the 20 being approached to determine their interest, and 
eight of the 13 being interviewed by Heidrick & Struggles.

 – The Chair undertook a first meeting with eight external 

candidates, three of which were female, before the external 
selection was reduced to four contenders, who were met by 
Sandra Turner and Helena Ganczakowski, and two 
candidates were put forward to meet with the remaining 
members of the Nominations Committee, Kate Ferry and 
Mohamed Elsarky. External candidates were also measured 
against the Heidrick & Struggles Culture Assessment 
undertaken by the Board towards the end of 2020.

72

 – At this point, an internal candidate, Roisin Currie, joined 

the process.

 – The two external candidates, one male, one female then 
met Roger Whiteside, Chief Executive, and Richard 
Hutton, Finance Director, for information gathering 
purposes which included a discussion about the culture 
and values within Greggs.

 – Heidrick & Struggles interviewed the internal candidate 
and drafted their confidential candidate report, and the 
candidate had further interviews with the Chair and 
Non-Executive Directors.

 – All final candidates undertook psychometric testing  

with a professionally-qualified psychologist partner at 
Heidrick & Struggles who presented the results of the 
psychometrics to the Non-Executive Directors.

 – Finally, each of the three candidates gave a 90-minute 

in-person presentation to the Non-Executive Directors, 
plus the Chief Executive.

 – A preferred candidate was identified, and negotiations 
commenced, ultimately leading to an announcement.

The Nominations Committee has a ‘skills matrix’ which it 
uses to assess the requisite skills that are needed on the 
Board, and this is to be re-assessed by Heidrick & Struggles 
ahead of the commencement of the further searches  
for Non-Executive Directors and Chair in the coming 12 
months. The Nominations Committee has considered the 
contribution of each of the Directors, and has confirmed  
to the Board that, save in respect of Roger Whiteside who  
will step down from the Board, the Board recommends  
their re-appointment at the annual general meeting.  
It goes without saying that the Board recommends that 
shareholders elect Roisin Currie as a Director at the annual 
general meeting, following which she will be appointed as 
Chief Executive.

During the year, the Board received a presentation from the 
Chief Executive on the succession plan for Operating Board 
Directors, to include a review of potential candidates, and 
their proximity to being ready to take up an appointment as 
and when appropriate. This plan was used to determine the 
appointments to the Operating Board of a new Retail Director 
and a Property Director, both of whom were internal 
appointments, following Roisin’s elevation to CEO Designate. 

Board evaluation and focus
As required by the Corporate Governance Code, the Board 
undertakes an annual evaluation of its activities, and in 2021, 
following an informal tender process run by the Company 
Secretary (who kept the Chair apprised of his activities), it 
appointed Grant Thornton to provide external facilitation of 
that evaluation. This represented a change of adviser from 
the Board’s two previous externally facilitated evaluations, 
both of which had been conducted by Nigel Davies of NJMD 
Corporate Services.

The process agreed between the Board and Grant Thornton 
consisted of:
 – A survey undertaken using a Board Clic questionnaire, 

completed by all members of the Board, plus the Company 
Secretary, and also a shorter more specific questionnaire 
completed by all Operating Board Directors. 
 – A review of key governance documentation and  

Board papers.

 – An interview with all Directors, the Company Secretary, 

and Operating Board Directors.

 – Attendance at a suite of Board and Committee meetings 

held in person (and also observed online).

 – Review meetings with the Chair and Company Secretary.
 – The circulation of a detailed report and presentation of 

key findings at a Board meeting.

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcGOVERNANCE REPORT CONTINUED

The Board then met to discuss and agree an action plan 
prepared by the Company Secretary.

Grant Thornton concluded that there are three key areas  
for the Board to develop its action plan, being: 
 – Reviewing the Board’s balance of focus between 

operational activities and the strategic long-term  
success drivers.

 – An assessment of the assurance that the Board can  

gain that there are capacity and skills in the organisation 
to implement and execute strategic plans.

 – Documenting how the Board considers its appetite  

for risk.

January

March

May

In summary however, Grant Thornton reported that: 
“Benchmarking data suggests the Board is highly effective, 
… and that there is clear evidence of this …given the Board’s 
achievements over the past five years.” 

June
July

In benchmarking the 2020 annual report, Grant Thornton 
concluded that “key areas of strength include Board 
leadership and purpose where Greggs is one of the top  
five organisations within the FTSE 350.”

The Board made a number of key decisions across the year, 
including a phased commitment to achieving net zero carbon 
emissions, and monitoring the implementation of the 
systems and processes needed to implement Natasha’s Law. 
Further details of certain matters considered by the Board 
during the year are set out in the table on this page.

Matters considered across the year:

Budget, risk review, evaluation outcomes, 
annual report 
Next Generation Greggs with a focus on the 
evolving delivery arrangements with Just Eat, 
AGM plans, new articles, pension scheme 
funding and the preliminary results
Supply chain review including SAP rollout, Triton 
cold store progress, the shop production and 
allergen labelling system (Natasha’s Law), 
information security update, review of The 
Greggs Pledge progress and planning for an 
externally facilitated Board evaluation. 
Appointment of Mohamed Elsarky as a  
Non-Executive Director
Board strategy including review of five-year plan
Review of strategy day actions, RCF review, 
interim results, and confirmation of Non-
Executive Director with colleague engagement 
oversight

November

September Broking report and share register review, Covid 
insurance claim litigation, succession planning 
and franchise partners review
Investor relations strategy development, 
Diversity & Inclusion programme update and 
report on employee opinion survey outcomes, 
Greggs Foundation update, first thoughts of 
Mohamed Elsarky after six months on the 
Board, food safety and health & safety 
performance review
Appointment of new Chief Executive

December/
January

Diversity & inclusion
The Board as a whole, rather than the Nominations 
Committee, monitors the gender balance in the Company. 
69% of our employees are women, with female workers 
largely within retail shops. There is a strong representation 
of women at the most senior level. Of the five Non-Executive 
Directors (including the Chair) three are female, placing  
us 7th in the FTSE 250. Greggs will be one of 19 FTSE 350 
companies to be led by a female Chief Executive. At 
Operating Board level, including the three Executive 
Directors, four out of 12* are women and approximately 46% 
of roles reporting into an Operating Board Director are held 
by women. Until his anticipated retirement from the Board  
on 17 May, our Chief Executive Roger Whiteside sits on the 
Women’s Business Council. Further information on our 
statutory gender reporting can be found on page 44.

In 2021, whilst working towards achieving the National 
Equality Scheme accreditation, we worked with EY who 
undertook a survey to assess our cultural health across 
different demographic groups. The findings from that work 
concluded that: 
 – Greggs values are well embedded, and consistently 

appeared in the top ten current cultural traits selected 
across all demographic groups; and

 – There is very little difference in the current cultural health 
and experience between different demographic groups.

The culture of Greggs is especially important, and we know 
we cannot be complacent in this area. We will continue to 
focus on understanding our culture, and how we can measure 
its progress through our annual engagement survey.

* following Roger Whiteside stepping down as Chief Executive on 17 May 2022, 
the ratio will be four women out of 11 members of the Operating Board

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We expanded our colleague networks and listening groups in 
2021. Our LGBTQ+ colleague network continued to grow and 
expanded to include colleagues from Retail and Supply. We 
also set up groups for our ethnically diverse colleagues and 
those colleagues with disabilities, each sponsored by 
members of the Operating Board. All these sessions have 
allowed us to gather valuable feedback and insight into the 
way we do things at Greggs and how we can be more 
inclusive of colleagues from minority groups.

Under the authority granted to them in the Company’s 
articles of association, the Board has considered carefully 
any situation declared by any Director pursuant to which  
they have or might have a conflict of interest and, where  
it considers it appropriate to do so, has authorised the 
continuation of that situation. In exercising their authority, 
the Directors have had regard to their statutory and other 
duties to the Company. All Directors have access to the 
Company Secretary as and when required.

A more comprehensive outline of our achievements can  
be found on page 49 and in The Greggs Pledge report 
available at corporate.greggs.co.uk/responsibility/
the-greggs-pledge.

As part of the DTR 7.2.8A disclosure, pages 36, 37 and 49  
are incorporated by reference into this Directors' report.

Other disclosures
Directors and their interests
The names of the Directors in office during the year, together 
with their relevant interests in the share capital of the 
Company at 2 January 2021 and 1 January 2022 are set out in 
the Directors’ remuneration report on page 104. Details of 
the Directors’ share options are set out in the Directors’ 
remuneration report on page 103.

Directors’ indemnities and conflicts
As at the date of this report, indemnities are in force under 
which the Company has agreed to indemnify the Directors,  
to the extent permitted by law, in respect of losses arising 
out of, or in connection with, the execution of their duties, 
powers or responsibilities as Directors of the Company. The 
indemnities do not apply in situations where the relevant 
Director has been guilty of fraud or wilful misconduct.

Substantial shareholdings
At 7 March 2022 the only notified holdings of substantial 
voting rights in respect of the issued share capital of the 
Company (which may have altered since the date of such 
notification, without any requirement for the Company to 
have been informed) were:

Shareholder

Number of shares 
held

Percentage of 
issued share 
capital

Royal London Asset Management
Blackrock, Inc
MFS Investment Management
Aviva plc 

6,147,139
5,514,881
5,049,548
3,900,428

6.03%
5.40%
4.95%
3.83%

Additional information
 – Future business developments: details of future business 
developments can be found throughout the strategic 
report on pages 1 to 63.

 – Financial risk management: details of our financial risk 
management policies and objectives can be found in  
Note 2 of the accounts.

 – The information set out within the governance report in 

pages 68 to 76 forms part of the Directors’ report.

 –  Greenhouse gas emissions: All disclosures concerning 

the Group’s greenhouse gas emissions (as required to be 
disclosed under the Companies Act 2006 (strategic report 
and Directors’ report) Regulations 2013) are contained in 
the sustainability report on page 43.

 – Dividends: details of the dividends declared and paid are 

given in Note 23 of the accounts.

74

Non-financial reporting regulations 
The information required by sections 414CA and 414CB of the 
Companies Act 2006 is included within the strategic report 
on pages 1 to 63 and the Directors’ report on pages 64 to 107.

Authority to purchase shares
At the AGM on 14 May 2021, the shareholders passed a 
resolution authorising the purchase by the Company of its 
own shares to a maximum of 10,150,000 ordinary shares of  
two pence each.

That authority had not been used as at 1 January 2022.

The authority remains in force until the conclusion of the 
AGM in 2022 or 13 August 2022, whichever is the earlier.  
It is the Board’s intention to seek approval at the 2022 AGM 
for the renewal of this authority.

Takeover directive information
Following the implementation of the European Directive on 
Takeover Bids by certain provisions of the Companies Act 
2006, the Company is required to disclose certain additional 
information in the Directors’ report. This information is set 
out below:
 – The Company has one class of share in issue being 

ordinary shares of 2 pence each. As at 8 March 2022, there 
were 101,899,371 such ordinary shares in issue. There are 
no shares in the Company that grant the holder special 
rights with regard to the control of the Company;

 – At general meetings of the Company, on a show of hands, 
every shareholder present in person or by proxy has one 
vote only and, in the case of a poll, every shareholder 
present in person or by proxy has one vote for every  
share in the capital of the Company held;

 – The Company’s articles of association set out the 
circumstances in which shares may become 
disenfranchised. No shareholder is entitled, unless the 
Directors otherwise determine, in respect of any share 
held to be present or vote at a general meeting either 
personally or by proxy (or to exercise any other right in 

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcGOVERNANCE REPORT CONTINUED

relation to meetings of the Company) in respect of that 
share in certain circumstances if any call or other sum  
is payable and remains unpaid, if the shareholder is in 
default in complying with a duly-served notice under 
section 793(1) of the CA 2006 or if any shareholder has 
failed to reply to a duly-served notice requiring them  
to provide a written statement stating they are the 
beneficial owner of the shares;

 – A notice convening a general meeting can contain a 

statement that a shareholder is not entitled to attend and 
vote at a general meeting unless their name is entered  
on the register of members of the Company at a specific 
time (not more than 48 hours before the meeting) and if  
a shareholder’s name is not so entered, they are, not 
entitled to attend and vote;

 – Under the Company’s articles of association the Directors 
may, in their absolute discretion, refuse to register the 
transfer of a share in certified form in certain 
circumstances where the Company has a lien on the share 
(provided that the Directors do not exercise their 
discretion so as to prevent dealings in partly paid shares 
from taking place on an open and proper basis), where a 
shareholder has failed to reply to a duly-served notice 
under section 793(1) CA 2006 or if a transfer of a share is  
in favour of more than four persons jointly. In addition,  
the Directors may decline to recognise any instrument of 
transfer unless it is in respect of only one class of share 
and is deposited at the address at which the register of 
members of the Company is held (or at such other place  
as the Directors may determine) accompanied by the 
relevant share certificate(s) and such other evidence as 
the Directors may reasonably require to show the right of 
the transferor to make the transfer. In respect of shares 
held in uncertificated form the Directors may only refuse 
to register transfers in accordance with the 
Uncertificated Securities Regulations 2001 (as amended 
from time to time);

 – Under the Company’s code on dealings in securities in the 

Company, persons discharging managerial responsibilities 

and some other senior executives may in certain 
circumstances be restricted as to when they can transfer 
shares in the Company;

 – There are no agreements between shareholders known  
to the Company which may result in restrictions on the 
transfer of shares or on voting rights;

 – Where, under an employee share plan operated by the 
Company, participants are the beneficial owners of  
shares but not the registered owner, the voting rights  
are normally exercised by the registered owner at the 
direction of the participant;

 – The Company’s articles of association may only be 

amended by special resolution at a general meeting  
of the shareholders;

 – The Company’s articles of association set out how 

Directors are appointed and replaced. Directors can be 
appointed by the Board or by the shareholders in a general 
meeting. At each annual general meeting, any Director 
appointed by the Board since the last annual general 
meeting must retire from office but is eligible for election 
by the shareholders. Furthermore, the Board has resolved 
that, in line with Corporate Governance Code (2018 
revision), all the Directors will be subject to annual 
re-election by shareholders. Under the CA 2006 and  
the Company’s articles of association, a Director can  
be removed from office by the shareholders in a  
general meeting;

 – The Company’s articles of association set out the powers 
of the Directors. The business of the Company is to be 
managed by the Directors who may exercise all the powers 
of the Company and do on behalf of the Company all such 
acts as may be exercised and done by the Company and 
are not by any relevant statutes or the Company’s articles 
of association required to be exercised or done by the 
Company in general meeting, subject to the provisions  
of any relevant statutes and the Company’s articles of 
association and to such regulations as may be prescribed 
by the Company by special resolution;

 – Under the CA 2006 and the Company’s articles of 

association, the Directors’ powers include the power to 
allot and buy back shares in the Company. At each annual 
general meeting resolutions are proposed granting and 
setting limits on these powers;

 – The Company is not party to any significant agreements 
which take effect, alter or terminate upon a change in 
control of the Company, following a takeover bid; and
 – There are no agreements between the Company and its 
Directors or employees providing for compensation for 
loss of office or employment (whether through 
resignation, purported redundancy or otherwise) that 
occurs because of a takeover bid. Details of the Directors’ 
service agreements and terms of appointment are set  
out in the Directors’ remuneration report on page 93. 
However, provisions in the employee share plans  
operated by the Company may allow options to be 
exercised on a takeover.

Significant relationships
The Group does not have any contractual or other 
relationships with any single party which are essential to the 
business of the Group and, therefore, no such relationships 
have been disclosed.

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Colleagues
What makes Greggs so special is its culture – the way our 
people behave and support each other. We want everyone to 
feel welcome at Greggs and our colleagues to be able to be 
themselves at work, whatever their background, preferences, 
or views. In the event our colleagues require adjustments to  
be made to support their employment then every effort will be 
made to ensure they are supported. Greggs is committed to 
creating a work environment free of discrimination, bullying, 
harassment and victimisation, where everyone is treated 
equally with dignity and respect. This applies in all aspects of 
employment including, recruitment and selection, promotion, 
transfer, training or other developmental opportunities, pay 
and benefits, other terms of employment, discipline and 
selection for redundancy.

Accountability, audit and going concern
The Board acknowledges its responsibility to present a fair, 
balanced and understandable assessment of the Company’s 
position and prospects. In order to assist the Board to 
comply with the requirements within the Corporate 
Governance Code, each year the Audit Committee is 
requested to undertake an assessment of the annual report 
and to make a recommendation to the Board. This request 
has been enshrined within the Audit Committee’s terms of 
reference, which are available at corporate.greggs.co.uk.

The actions undertaken by the Audit Committee in confirming 
its advice to the Board included the consideration of a 
detailed review that has been undertaken by the Head of 
Business Assurance and reviewing the annual report as a 
whole to confirm that it presents a fair, balanced and 
understandable assessment. In considering the advice of  
the Audit Committee, and having reviewed the annual report 
including the contents of the strategic report on pages 1 to 63, 
together with the statutory accounts themselves, the Board 
duly considers the annual report and accounts, taken as a 
whole, is fair, balanced and understandable, and provides the 

76

necessary information for shareholders to assess the 
Company’s performance, business model and strategy.

A statement of Directors’ responsibilities in respect of the 
preparation of accounts is given on page 107. A statement  
of auditor’s responsibilities is given in the report of the 
auditor on page 113.

After making enquiries, the Directors have a reasonable 
expectation that the Group has adequate resources to 
continue in operational existence for the foreseeable 
future. For this reason, they continue to adopt the going 
concern basis in preparing the accounts (see basis of 
preparation on page 125). The Board’s viability statement 
made in accordance with Corporate Governance Code 
Provision 31 can be found on page 63. 

Policies
Freedom of association
At Greggs, we recognise the right of all employees to 
freedom of association and collective bargaining. Whilst  
we do not have a formal Freedom of Association policy, the 
Company encourages all its employees in supply sites, shops 
and offices to become, and remain, members of a union.

Whistle-blowing
Our ‘whistle-blowing’ policy creates an environment where 
employees are able to raise concerns without fear of 
disciplinary action being taken against them as a result of any 
disclosure. Any matters raised are treated in confidence and an 
independent review will be undertaken where it is appropriate. 
The Chair of the Audit Committee is the designated first point 
of contact for any concerns which cannot be addressed 
through normal management processes.

Political donations
Greggs has a clear policy forbidding political donations  
or contributions. This includes financial and in-kind 
contributions made by the Company.

Disclosure of information to the auditor
Each of the Directors who held office at the date of 
approval of this Directors’ report confirms that, so far  
as they are individually aware there is no relevant audit 
information of which the Company’s auditor is unaware  
and that they have taken all the steps that they ought to 
have taken as a Director to make themselves aware of  
any relevant audit information and to establish that the 
Company’s auditor is aware of that information.

Bribery and corruption
Greggs has an Anti-Bribery and Corruption policy which 
applies to all employees and prohibits the offering, giving, 
seeking or acceptance of any bribe in any form to any person 
or company by acting on its behalf, in order to gain an 
advantage in an unethical way.

By order of the Board

Jonathan D Jowett
Company Secretary
8 March 2022  
Greggs plc (CRN 502851)

Business conduct
We have a specific policy that sets out the standards of 
ethical behaviour that are expected of all employees.  
All graded managers, and members of the procurement 
department, are required to make an annual confirmation  
of their compliance with the policy.

Greggs House, Quorum Business Park
Newcastle upon Tyne

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcAUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT

AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT

Dear Shareholder
As Chair of the Audit Committee, I am  
pleased to present the Committee’s report  
for the 52 weeks ended 1 January 2022.

The Committee plays an important part in the governance  
of the Company with its principal activities focused on the 
integrity of financial reporting, quality and effectiveness of 
internal and external audit, risk management and the system 
of internal control.

In this report, I aim to share some of the Committee’s 
discussions from the year, providing insight regarding the 
role of the Committee, the main matters considered by it 
during the year and the conclusions drawn. The Committee 
meets formally at key times within the reporting calendar 
and the agendas for its meetings are designed to cover  
all significant areas of risk over the course of the year and  
to provide oversight and challenge to the key financial 
judgements, controls and processes that operate within  
the Company.

The Committee continues to keep its activities under review 
in the light of regulatory developments and the emergence  
of best practice. 

During 2021 it has continued to ensure that the impact of  
the ongoing pandemic and the Company’s recovery from  
it is clearly reported and accounted for. It has overseen the 
transition of external auditor from KPMG LLP to RSM UK 
Audit LLP. It has also overseen a review of the Company’s  
risk management processes, facilitated by Marsh Advisory, 
which has resulted in the implementation of a new ‘enterprise 
risk management’ model.

Overall, I am satisfied that the activities of the Committee 
enable it to gain a good understanding of the key matters 
impacting the Company during the year along with oversight 
of the governance and operation of its key controls, and 
ultimately to draw the conclusions set out in the following 
report. I will be available at the AGM to answer any questions 
about our work.

The Committee has also overseen the production of the 
Company’s first report in line with the requirements of the 
Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) 
which is set out on 38 to 43.

Kate Ferry
Chair of the Audit Committee
8 March 2022

Key topics for consideration by the Committee in 2022 will  
be the review of auditor performance after the first full audit 
cycle for RSM, the continuing development of our enterprise 
risk management model and the further development of the 
Company’s ESG reporting.

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Composition
The Audit Committee is comprised of the following:

Kate Ferry (Chair)
Helena Ganczakowski 
Sandra Turner 
Mohamed Elsarky (appointed as Director and Audit 
Committee member on 21 June 2021).

Peter McPhillips retired as a Director and member of the 
Audit Committee on 31 July 2021.

It is the practice of the Company for all independent 
Non-Executive Directors to serve as members of the  
Audit Committee. 

Training is provided for any new members of the Audit 
Committee by way of a thorough induction process which 
includes access to the external auditor, the Head of Business 
Assurance and relevant members of management.

The Directors’ biographies on pages 65 and 66 detail  
the Committee members’ previous experience and 
demonstrate that they have experience individually in  
a range of disciplines relevant to Greggs’ business.  
The Board considers that Kate Ferry has recent and  
relevant financial experience.

Role and responsibilities
The Terms of Reference of the Committee can be accessed 
at: corporate.greggs.co.uk/investors/corporate-
governance/company-documents.

The key responsibilities of the Audit Committee are:
 – ensuring that the accounting and financial policies of  

the Company are proper and effective;
 – assisting the Board in fulfilling its oversight 

responsibilities by monitoring the integrity of the 
accounts and information published by the Company  
and reviewing significant financial judgements  
contained in them;

 – advising the Board on whether it believes the annual 

report and accounts, taken as a whole, is fair, balanced 
and understandable and provides the information 
necessary for shareholders to assess the Company’s 
position and performance, business model and strategy;
 – reviewing the internal financial controls and the Group’s 

approach to risk management;

 – overseeing whistle-blowing arrangements;
 – monitoring compliance with the Listing Rules and the 

recommendations of the Governance Code;

 – overseeing the Company’s internal auditors and reviewing 
the effectiveness and objectivity of the audit process;
 – overseeing the Company’s external auditors, reviewing 
their independence and objectivity and monitoring the 
effectiveness of the audit process;

 – developing and implementing policy on the external 

auditor’s provision of non-audit services; and
 – reporting to the Board on how it has discharged  

its responsibilities.

Meetings during the year
The Audit Committee met four times during the year. Details 
of Committee members’ attendance are given on page 71.

The Committee normally invites the Company Chair, the 
Executive Directors, the Head of Business Assurance and 
the external auditor to attend its meetings. Time is set aside 
bi-annually for discussion with the external auditor and with 
the Head of Business Assurance, in each case in the absence 
of all Executive Directors. The Committee also has access to 
the Company’s management team and to its auditor and can 
seek further professional advice, at the Company’s cost, if 
required. The Chair has regular contact with the Finance 
Director, and internal and external auditors, in addition to 
scheduled Committee meetings to ensure that emerging 
issues are addressed. She also has access to an audit 
partner independent of the partner responsible for the audit.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcAUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT CONTINUED

Financial reporting
In 2021 the Audit Committee reviewed the 2020 annual report, interim results, preliminary 
results announcement and reports from the external auditor on the outcome of their reviews 
and audits.

During the year, and up to the date of this report, the Committee considered key accounting 
issues and judgements and related disclosures in the Group’s accounts. The significant areas 
of judgement considered by the Committee in relation to the accounts for the 52 weeks ended 
1 January 2022 are as follows: 

Area of focus

Action taken 

The Committee reviewed management’s assessment of the impact of the Covid-19 crisis on the shop 
estate and the ongoing recovery and concurred that all shops should be re-tested for impairment at  
the end of 2021. It has reviewed the assumptions made and the resulting impairment releases and has 
concluded that the principles and judgements applied were appropriate.

Impairment of assets
Property, plant and equipment and right-of-use assets are reviewed for impairment if events or changes 
in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. When a review for impairment 
is conducted the recoverable amount is estimated based on either value-in-use calculations or fair value 
less costs of disposal. Value-in-use calculations are based on management’s estimate of future cash 
flows generated by the assets and an appropriate discount rate. Consideration is also given to whether 
the impairment assessments made in prior years remain appropriate based on the latest expectations in 
respect of recoverable amount. Where it is concluded that the impairment has reduced, a reversal of the 
impairment is recorded.

The Covid-19 crisis meant that during 2020 all shops had periods of no, or reduced, sales. This was 
deemed to be an impairment trigger and as a result assets in company-managed shops were tested for 
impairment. Sales have recovered during 2021 but in some locations the level of sales is still below that 
seen in 2019. As recovery from the pandemic continues, there remains inherent uncertainty in the rate  
of sales.

An impairment review was carried out for the company-managed shop estate using the assumptions  
set out in the basis of preparation on page 126. As a result of this review a net impairment release of  
£2.2 million has been recognised in 2021 resulting in an impairment of £4.9 million remaining at 1 January 
2022 in respect of shop fittings and right-of-use assets for 59 shops. In 2020 £5.3 million of impairment 
was recognised in respect of 38 shops which did not reopen following the lockdown period and a further 
£8.7 million in respect of 87 shops where the carrying value was not considered to be recoverable in full. 

In addition to the above £1.3 million has been released to the income statement in 2021 in respect of land 
and bakery plant and machinery which is no longer considered to be impaired.

The sensitivities of the assumptions on this amount are set out on page 127.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSGreggs plcAUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT CONTINUED

Area of focus

Action taken 

Accounting for leases
IFRS 16 Leases became effective for 2019 and was adopted by the Group on 30 December 2018. As a 
result of this, lease liabilities, representing the obligation to make lease payments, are recognised on 
the balance sheet together with corresponding right-of-use assets. In the income statement rent costs 
were replaced by a straight-line depreciation charge on each right-of-use asset and an interest charge 
that reduces over the lease term.

At the end of 2021 the Group has recognised right-of-use assets of £263.6 million (2020: £270.1 million) 
and lease liabilities totalling £283.2 million (2020: £291.7 million). Charges to the income statement of 
£48.7 million (2020: £51.9 million) in respect of depreciation and £6.3 million (2020: £6.5 million) in 
respect of interest were recognised. 

The sensitivities of the assumptions on these amounts are set out on page 127.

Accounting for defined benefit pension schemes
The valuation of the defined benefit obligation depends on the selection of certain assumptions 
including the discount rate, inflation rates and mortality rates. 

In addition, judgement is required in determining the appropriate accounting under IAS 19 and IFRIC 14 – 
The Limit on a Defined Benefit Asset, Minimum Funding Requirements and their Interaction as to 
whether a net pension surplus should be recognised and whether a liability should be recognised  
for any minimum funding requirements.

The net liability recognised in relation to defined benefit pension schemes at the end of 2021 was  
£2.4 million (2020: £11.9 million). 

The sensitivities of the assumptions on these amounts are set out in Note 21 to the accounts.

Fair, balanced and understandable
The Committee is responsible for advising the Board on whether it believes the annual report  
and accounts, taken as a whole, is fair, balanced and understandable.

The Committee continues to review and monitor developments in this area to ensure that  
judgements made are up to date and remain valid and that the approach adopted is still  
appropriate to the Group’s circumstances.

The Committee considers that the judgements made are appropriate to the Group’s  
particular circumstances. 

Pension scheme liabilities are assessed on behalf of the Company by independent actuaries.  
The Committee assessed the underlying assumptions and concluded that they were appropriate  
and also discussed the appropriateness of the assumptions with the external auditor.

The Committee also considered and discussed the judgements involved in applying the requirements of 
IFRIC 14 – The Limit on a Defined Benefit Asset, Minimum Funding Requirements and their Interaction, 
including whether the Group has an unconditional right to refund.

The Committee received a report from the Head of Business Assurance who is not involved in the 
preparation of the annual report and accounts and who conducted an independent review of it.  
The following factors were considered during the course of this review:

 – ensuring that all the statements are consistent with one another;

 –

 –

verifying that figures in the narrative sections are consistent with the relevant financial detail;

identifying any duplication of information;

 – ensuring that the disclosure of non-underlying items is balanced;

 – confirming that ‘bad news’ is included, as well as ‘good news’; and

 – highlighting any inappropriate use of technical language or jargon.

The Audit Committee considered the feedback from this report alongside its own review of  
the annual report and accounts when making its recommendation to the Board regarding fair,  
balanced and understandable.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcAUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT CONTINUED

Area of focus

Action taken 

Going concern
The accounts continue to be prepared on a going concern basis.

Viability
The Board is required to consider the period over which it is able to conclude that the Company  
will remain viable, having taken into account severe but plausible risks and risk combinations.

Information provided by the Finance Director regarding future financial plans, risks and liquidity was 
presented to the Committee to enable it to determine whether the going concern basis of accounting 
remained appropriate.

The Committee reviewed and challenged the assumptions used and concluded that the Board is able  
to make the going concern statement on page 76 of the Directors’ report.

The Committee reviewed the process undertaken by management to support and allow the Directors to 
assess the Group’s long-term prospects and make its viability statement. The Committee considered 
and provided input into the determination of which of the Group’s principal risks and combinations 
thereof might have an impact on the Group’s liquidity and solvency.

The Committee reviewed the results of management’s scenario modelling and the stress testing of 
these models. The Committee reviewed and challenged the assumptions used and concluded that  
the Board is able to make the viability statement on page 63 of the strategic report.

The Committee considered the accounting requirements of 
IAS 1 relating to the separate disclosure of material items of 
income or expense together with the FRC’s guidance on the 
subject. It concluded that there were no material items in the 
year (2020: £0.8 million) where separate disclosure should be 
made and consequently has not included the understanding 
and treatment of exceptional items as a significant 
judgement in the table above.

The Committee also considered other key accounting issues 
and related disclosures in the Group’s accounts as follows: 
 – whether any changes in accounting policy were required 

following changes in the business or in legislation;
 – whether the Company’s tax policy remains appropriate;
 – the impact of changes in accounting standards and their 

relevance, if any, to the Company;

 – reports from the Company Secretary and Finance 
Director which assess the Company’s compliance  
with the Listing Rules.

External audit
Assessing external audit effectiveness
The Audit Committee discussed and agreed the scope of  
the audit with the external auditor and agreed their fees in 
respect of the audit. 

The Committee reviewed the effectiveness of the external 
audit in line with the Financial Reporting Council’s ‘Practice 
aid for audit committees’ (December 2019). It sought 
feedback from senior management, by way of a detailed 
questionnaire, in respect of the effectiveness of the audit 
process with particular reference to audit planning, design 
and execution of a partly remotely-conducted audit.

The Committee also considered the effectiveness of the 
audit through the reporting from and communications with 
the auditor and an assessment of the auditor’s approach to 
key areas of judgement and any errors identified during the 
course of the audit. 

The Committee concluded that the audit was effective and 
that the relationship and effectiveness of the external 
auditor be kept under review. 

Appointing the auditor and safeguards on  
non-audit services 
The Committee’s policy on auditor appointment is to 
consider annually whether to conduct an audit tender  
for audit quality or independence reasons. During 2020  
the Audit Committee conducted a full tender exercise  
for the appointment of a new auditor which resulted in  
the appointment of RSM UK Audit LLP (RSM) as auditor  
at the AGM in May 2021. 

It is the responsibility of the Committee to monitor the 
independence and objectivity of the external auditor 
(including the impact of any non-audit work undertaken  
by it) and its suitability for reappointment. 

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSGreggs plcWhistle-blowing
The Company’s whistle-blowing policy is available to all 
employees via the intranet, as well as via posters displayed 
across the business. This gives information regarding how to 
raise a concern in strict confidence, and incorporates three 
escalation levels. Our Audit Committee Chair is the final 
contact and resolution point for this process, and received 
two calls during the year. Both of these were investigated, 
and no action was required as a result.

Risk management process
The Audit Committee receives an update on risk 
management at each of its meetings, and an annual report 
providing detail on the overall process, and key activities 
during the year. This process ensures that the Committee 
meets its obligation to oversee the effectiveness of risk 
management, and allows it to confirm to the Main Board  
that arrangements are appropriate. 

The risk management process is explained in more detail  
on page 59. 

Appointment of auditor 
In accordance with Section 489 of the Companies Act 2006, 
a resolution for the reappointment of RSM UK Audit LLP will 
be proposed at the forthcoming AGM.

Risk management and internal control
Internal control
The Group has an internal control environment designed to 
protect the business from the material risks which have been 
identified. Management is responsible for establishing and 
maintaining adequate internal controls and the Audit 
Committee has responsibility for ensuring the effectiveness 
of these controls. The Committee receives updates from 
Business Assurance on the internal control environment at 
each meeting, covering both risk management and internal 
audit perspectives. This regular reporting ensures timely 
review of any key issues. Whilst the Committee is updated on 
all internal audit activity, those reports which conclude only 
limited assurance are considered in greater detail. This gives 
Committee members assurance that appropriate actions 
have been taken or are in progress to implement the  
audit recommendations.

The Committee considers the matters described above to  
be the main features of the Group’s internal control and risk 
management systems in relation to the financial reporting 
process for the undertakings included in the consolidation  
as a whole.

AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT CONTINUED

The Company has a formal policy to ensure that the provision 
of non-audit services by the external auditor for non-audit 
work does not compromise the auditor’s independence or 
objectivity. It monitors the level and type of non-audit fees  
on an annual basis and ensures that the overall level of 
non-audit fees remains in line with current ethical  
guidance governing the accounting profession.

The Audit Committee favours a presumption that non-audit 
work will be awarded to a firm other than the audit firm 
unless there is a good reason to use the auditor. An annual 
base plan for non-audit fees paid to the external auditor is 
agreed in advance by the Audit Committee. Expenditure in 
accordance with this plan can then be committed without 
further referral to the Audit Committee. Expenditure that is 
not included in the agreed plan is subject to strict authority 
limits and is reviewed by the Committee.

All use of the external auditor for non-audit work must  
be reported to and approved by the Committee. In 
circumstances where non-audit fees are significant relative 
to the audit fee an explanation would be provided in the 
subsequent Audit Committee Report. In addition, the Audit 
Committee ensures that the external auditor has its own 
policies and is subject to professional standards designed  
to safeguard their independence as auditor.

The Audit Committee has reviewed whether, and is satisfied 
that, the Company’s current auditor, RSM, continues to be 
objective and independent of the Company. During 2021 the 
Committee approved RSM to provide non-audit services in 
respect of the review of turnover certificates as required by 
certain shop landlords. No fees were billed in respect of this 
service during 2021, although the work started in the year.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcAUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT CONTINUED

Key areas subject to specific review by the Committee include the following:

Area of focus

Financial reporting

Task Force on Climate-related  
Financial Disclosures (TCFD)
Cyber risk and information security

Enterprise Risk Management

New and emerging risks

Review of principal risks and uncertainties

Viability and going concern status

Internal audit function

Action taken 

All judgemental areas in the accounts are considered by the Committee, to provide 
independent challenge to the process.  
The Committee considered and confirmed the proposed statement regarding TCFD 
requirements.
Cyber risk and information security is considered at every Audit Committee meeting,  
within the Head of Business Assurance’s activity update. In particular, there have been 
regular updates on the implementation of a new Information Security Management System. 
This allows the Committee to satisfy itself as to the adequacy of current arrangements  
and future plans. 
The Audit Committee has received updates on the new Enterprise Risk Management model 
being implemented by the business. 
New and emerging risks are raised and discussed by members of the Risk Committee  
at each of its meetings. 

Any significant matters are escalated to the Audit Committee for further discussion.
The Risk Committee discussed the key risks faced by the business during 2021 and used this 
to develop the content of the statement of principal risks and uncertainties. This in turn was 
considered by the Audit Committee after the year end, and approved for inclusion in this 
report, on pages 61 and 62. 
As part of the annual report review, the Committee has considered and agreed the viability 
statement and the various scenarios modelled within it as part of the assessment.

The Company’s adoption of a going concern basis for accounts preparation was reviewed  
at the mid-year, as well as during the consideration of the annual report.
The Committee has reviewed the work and output of the internal audit function,  
and concluded as to its effectiveness throughout the year.

Internal audit
The work of the internal audit function is set out in more 
detail within the principal risks and uncertainties statement 
on pages 61 and 62 of this annual report. The team is led by 
the Head of Business Assurance, supported by 26 auditors, 
along with the Data Protection Analyst. The majority of the 
audit resource is dedicated to the retail estate, including  
our franchise shops, providing the Audit Committee with 
assurance that the required controls for safe operation 
within the shops are in place and operating effectively. 

The Business Assurance team presents an annual plan to the 
Audit Committee for approval, setting out how the resource 
will be allocated across the business. Progress against this 
plan is monitored at subsequent meetings throughout the 
year. The effectiveness of the team and its level of resource 
are reviewed by the Committee on an annual basis, including 
a consideration of outputs, and customer feedback received. 

Committee effectiveness
As noted in the Governance report on page 72 there was  
an externally facilitated evaluation of the Board and its 
committees during 2021. We are pleased that the overall 
conclusion in respect of the Audit Committee is that it is 
effective and valuable and has a good balance of skills, 
experience, diversity, independence and knowledge to 
enable it to discharge its responsibilities effectively. The 
evaluation has identified areas for development, including 
integrating risk management processes more closely  
with strategy and we will look to build on the evaluation 
feedback in the coming year.

Kate Ferry
Chair of the Audit Committee
8 March 2022

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSGreggs plcDIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT

DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION 
REPORT

Dear Shareholders

On behalf of the Remuneration Committee (the ‘Committee’), I am 
pleased to present our Directors’ remuneration report for 2021. I would 
like to thank my colleagues for their engagement throughout the year 
and welcome Mohamed Elsarky as a new member of the Committee. 

As outlined in the Chair’s statement, 2021 was a year of further recovery for Greggs as we 
navigated the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic. The Committee continues to  
have a transparent and open approach to remuneration at Greggs, taking into account the 
experience of our colleagues, shareholders and wider stakeholders. Our report aims to be 
clear, simple and easy to read, providing explanations and rationale for our decision-making 
throughout and in particular in response to the continued uncertainty that we faced  
through 2021. 

The report is made up of three key sections:
 – My annual Chair’s letter;
 – A summary of our three-year Directors’ remuneration policy, which was formally agreed  

at our AGM held on 13 May 2020; and 

 – Our annual remuneration report, split into sections that set out:
  A.  
  B.  
  C.  

How our policy links to strategy and reward across the wider workforce;
Remuneration Committee activity for the 52 weeks ended 1 January 2022;
 How Directors’ remuneration will be implemented in 2022 in line with the approved 
policy; and
 How our remuneration policy was implemented in 2021. This is an audited section of 
the report outlining the remuneration of the Executive and Non-Executive Directors 
during the 52 weeks ended 1 January 2022. 

  D.  

84

The annual remuneration report, together with this Chair’s statement, will be subject  
to an advisory shareholder vote at the 2022 AGM.

Remuneration policy 
Our remuneration policy consists of the following elements:
 – fixed pay – base salary, pension and benefits; and 
 – variable pay – annual bonus (paid in both cash and deferred shares) and performance  

share plan (PSP) measuring long-term performance and delivered in shares.

As we move into year three of the policy, the Committee believes that this structure has 
served us well. It is simple and consistent, with pay outcomes dependent upon performance 
linked to our business strategy and growth plans as well as taking into account our wider 
workforce remuneration and specific Greggs culture. It ensures a significant proportion of 
pay is delivered in shares to provide alignment with investors and incorporates other best 
practice features in line with the UK Corporate Governance Code and investor guidelines.  
We are comfortable that in the final year of its application, the policy continues to ensure that 
the team running the business is incentivised appropriately. Accordingly, there are no formal 
changes to our proposed policy for 2022. 

During 2022, we will start the process of reviewing the remuneration policy and engaging with 
stakeholders ahead of presenting a new policy for shareholder approval at our AGM in 2023. 

Business performance in 2021 and incentive outcomes
As outlined in the Chair’s statement and the Chief Executive’s review, 2021 was a year of further 
recovery for Greggs as we navigated the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic. The team 
continued to react to changing conditions and produced a strong 2021 financial result in the face 
of ongoing disruption to demand and in our supply chain. As we reported at the half year, the 
improved performance and trading outlook resulted in us deciding to repay all Coronavirus Job 
Retention Scheme (CJRS) support claimed in the first half of 2021.

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcConsideration of the wider workforce 
The Committee monitors and reviews the effectiveness of the Directors’ remuneration policy 
and its impact on and alignment with the remuneration policies in the wider workforce. To 
support decisions on Executive Directors’ pay, the Committee is provided with information 
detailing the pay and benefits of the wider workforce which gives additional context for the 
Committee to make informed decisions. The Remuneration Committee engaged with a 
representative group of colleagues in 2021 to explain how remuneration for Directors aligns 
with wider Company pay policy. Through 2022 we are looking to engage with our colleagues  
on the terms of Executive Director remuneration and the development of the new three-year 
remuneration policy.

In recognition of the magnificent job our teams have done in coping under such difficult 
circumstances through 2021 and to recognise their hard work we brought forward the planned 
2022 pay award for our operational teams by five months and for our graded management 
team by two months. This 3.5% increase in pay (with an additional 3% for our lowest paid 
colleagues in retail) was therefore implemented in 2021 and was in addition to the pay award 
the teams received earlier in the year. 

As well as this, as we had a strong year of profit delivery (with 10% of all our profits being 
shared with eligible colleagues), the profit share payment this year will be at a record level  
for the wider workforce.

Bonus 2021
As disclosed last year, the annual bonus scheme for 2021 was set up with performance  
targets based on profit (50%), sales (20%) and strategic objectives (30%). We set target ranges 
which were designed to ensure that bonus payments would only be made for appropriately 
stretching levels of performance. This included profit targets designed to incentivise growth 
after a challenging 2020, and sales targets aimed at minimising the shortfall (on a like-for-like 
basis) with 2019, a record-breaking year.

consequence of this financial performance over the year, both the profit (50%) and sales (20%) 
elements of the bonus were met in full and achieved maximum payout. 

The strategic objectives comprised three separate elements with 10% based on business 
efficiency/cost savings, 10% on food waste targets and 10% on sustainability. 

Cost pressures remained significant in 2021; we worked to keep a tight control on these, resulting 
in the business efficiency/cost saving element of the bonus paying out the maximum of 10%. 

The 10% food waste element was split equally between reducing food waste and increasing 
food redistribution. These were challenging targets and the teams across the business 
worked hard to meet them. For food waste reduction, the stretch target was a 10% reduction 
in food waste across our supply sites based on our 2019 year end waste figure of £5.4 million. 
The teams actually achieved an impressive 17.7% reduction, resulting in a full 5% pay out of this 
element. For food redistribution, the stretch target was 29.25% of unsold food redistributed 
versus the 2019 year end actual of 19.5%. Again, the teams did a tremendous job, achieving 
28.4%, resulting in 4.7% of this element of the bonus paying out.

The final 10% of the bonus was based on our 2040 ‘net zero’ ambition as outlined in  
The Greggs Pledge. The metric involved a comprehensive analysis and modelling of Scope 3 
carbon emissions with the stretch target being a robust and clear action plan for the top two 
focus areas as identified through the modelling. The Board was satisfied with both the modelling 
that was undertaken, in that it clearly mapped out the key elements of the Scope 3 emissions, 
and the action plan that was subsequently produced. The outputs of the work were externally 
verified by a third party, the Carbon Trust, and as such the Committee agreed all elements were 
met in full and achieved maximum payout. We will be actioning key elements of this carbon 
reduction plan in 2022 and will carry forward the work completed in 2021 into the remuneration 
policy review, where we will explore broadening the use of ESG/strategic measures in our 
variable pay metrics in 2023 and beyond. 

Despite continued disrupted trading conditions, Greggs came back strongly in 2021, restoring 
profitability and increasing the pace of growth in the shop estate. Our results and 
achievements in 2021 show that we have emerged from the crisis both stronger and better as  
a business. Through the year, demand in our walk-in channels rose alongside strong delivery 
sales. We had done well to accelerate our services in the delivery channel as Covid struck and, 
now that walk-in footfall was returning, delivery demand was proving to be incremental to this, 
extending the reach of our shops beyond customers passing by. Employee absence and skill 
shortages contributed to the broader challenges we experienced in our supply chain. Despite 
all these challenges we continued to deliver positive like-for-like sales growth and, as a 

The Committee is cognisant that the payout of the bonus is very near to maximum but is 
satisfied that this outcome aligns well with the business performance in what were tough 
trading conditions in 2021. The Committee carefully reviewed management’s performance 
against these targets, taking the full business context and stakeholder experience into 
account and determined that this level of payout was appropriate with no need to apply 
discretion. Overall, annual bonuses were paid at a level of 99.7% of the maximum equating  
to payments of 124.6% (out of a maximum of 125%) and 99.7% (out of a maximum of 100%) of 
salary to the Chief Executive and Finance Director, respectively. Any element of the bonus 
earned above 50% of the maximum will be paid in shares and will be subject to a two-year 

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSGreggs plcDIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

holding period. As previously mentioned, as we had a strong year of profit delivery (with 10% of 
all our profits being shared with eligible colleagues), the profit share payment this year will be 
at a record level for the wider workforce. 

PSP vesting in 2022
The three-year performance period for the PSP awards made in April 2019, and due to vest  
in April 2022, ended on 1 January 2022. As noted in the 2020 remuneration report, the 
Committee made no adjustments to the targets for these awards, and had assumed then that, 
due to the impact of Covid-19, the threshold performance targets for both EPS and ROCE were 
unlikely to be met. However, due to the exceptional recovery in performance of the business 
through 2021 a proportion of these awards will now vest. 

50% of these awards were based on EPS growth of 5-11% p.a. over three financial years to 
1 January 2022, with the other 50% based on average annual ROCE over the period of 24-28%. 
In the event, EPS grew by 22.7% p.a. and our average annual ROCE was 23.18%. This meant that 
the EPS performance condition vested in full but the ROCE performance condition was not 
met, therefore delivering a 50% vesting rate for this award.

The Committee has reviewed this outcome in the context of wider business performance and 
stakeholder experience, and is very comfortable that vesting is justified at this level with no 
need to apply discretion to adjust the outcome. 

Approach for 2022 
Having demonstrated our resilience as a business over the last two years, we held a capital 
markets day in October in which we set out our ambitious plan to double sales in the next  
five years. The fundamental strategic pillars of our business model have not changed but we 
have identified four key growth drivers which will become the focus of our plan to reach our 
potential in the years ahead. In delivering the strategic pillars, the four key growth drivers and 
The Greggs Pledge, it is vital that there continues to be a sustained focus and alignment to our 
remuneration policy and approach. As noted above we will start the process of reviewing the 
remuneration policy in 2022 and whilst we continue to act with restraint in remuneration 
matters, it is important that we set policy and incentive plans that strike the right balance 
between achievability and stretch, driving the right decisions for the business, supporting  
the wider workforce and shareholders, and at the same time motivating and enabling the 
retention and recruitment of senior talent. 

Appointment of new Chief Executive 
As announced on 6 January 2022, Roger Whiteside has given notice of his intention to retire 
from the Company and it has been agreed that he will step down from the Board at the close  
of the 2022 AGM, remaining available to support the transition process until his notice period 
expires on 5 January 2023. 

Roisin Currie has been appointed Chief Executive, effective from the date of the AGM in May 
2022, subject to shareholder approval. Pending this appointment, she joined the Board as  
CEO Designate and as an Executive Director with effect from 1 February 2022. 

The Committee has approved good leaver status for Roger Whiteside. His leaving 
arrangements are in line with the provisions of the Directors’ remuneration policy and good 
practice, and are set out later in this report. In brief, Roger will continue to receive his normal 
remuneration package until the AGM, after which he will continue to receive salary, benefits 
and pension throughout his notice period. Any bonus earned for 2022 will be only in respect of 
the period served to the AGM. His outstanding PSP awards remain subject to the satisfaction 
of the relevant performance conditions and will be scaled back for the proportion of the 
vesting period that he is employed.

The reward package for Roisin Currie has been set in line with the existing remuneration 
policy. Further details are set out below and in the rest of this report. 

Salaries and fees 
In recognition of the magnificent job our teams have done in coping under such difficult 
circumstances through 2021 and to recognise their hard work, we brought forward the 
planned 3.5% pay award for our operational teams (with an additional 3% for our lowest paid 
colleagues in retail) by five months and for our graded management team by two months, 
meaning that their 2022 pay increases took effect in 2021. 

With effect from 1 January 2022, the Committee agreed a salary increase of 3.5% for  
the Finance Director, in line with the base increase for the workforce generally. The same 
increase was agreed for the Chair and a consistent approach was taken by the Board in 
relation to the Non-Executive Directors’ fees. Due to Roger Whiteside’s impending retirement, 
the base pay award was not applied to his salary. This early implementation of the pay award 
for our wider workforce was not applied to our Executive Directors, Non-Executive Directors 
or Operating Board. 

86

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcRoisin Currie’s salary as CEO Designate was set at £400,000 with effect from the date of  
her appointment to the Board (1 February 2022). This will rise to £600,000 with effect from  
the AGM, when she becomes Chief Executive. This salary level is in line with the salary  
Roger Whiteside would have received for 2022 were he continuing as Chief Executive  
(and remains well below median compared with relevant peer companies). Roisin Currie’s 
pension contribution will be in line with the rate applying to the majority of the workforce,  
at 4% of salary (significantly below the pension contribution for Roger Whiteside).

The Committee will carry out a review of the fee for the Board Chair in 2022 as part of the 
process of appointment of a new Chair, to ensure that the fee is appropriate in the context  
of attracting high-quality talent and reflective of the demands of the role. The Board 
(excluding the Non-Executive Directors) has separately reviewed the fee levels for  
Non-Executive Directors. 

Annual bonus
The maximum bonus opportunity for Roger Whiteside as Chief Executive will remain at 125% 
of salary although, as noted above, he will participate in the bonus scheme only until the AGM in 
May. The Committee has decided to increase the annual bonus opportunity for Richard Hutton, 
the Finance Director, from 100% to 125% of basic salary to align with the current bonus level 
for the Chief Executive and the limit in the remuneration policy to further incentivise him to 
drive outperformance during a period of management change and to help ensure his ongoing 
commitment and retention. Roisin Currie has a bonus opportunity of 100% of salary for the 
period she serves as CEO Designate, rising to 125% with effect from her appointment as  
Chief Executive.

The Committee believes that the current performance measures – profit (50%), sales (20%) 
and strategic objectives (30%) remain appropriate and no changes are proposed to these 
weightings. The strategic objectives will continue to comprise three separate elements with 
10% based on business efficiency/cost savings, 10% based on evening sales and 10% based  
on an element of The Greggs Pledge (food waste targets).

Targets for these measures for the 2022 bonus will be set in line with the financial plan for the 
business for the year and the rolling strategic plan and will continue to be stretching. Due to 
the commercial sensitivity of the 2022 bonus targets they are not disclosed within this report, 
but will be disclosed retrospectively in next year’s report. 

PSP 
For the 2022 PSP, the Finance Director, Richard Hutton will receive an award at a level of 150% 
of salary. Although the normal maximum grant level under the remuneration policy is 125% of 
salary, we can grant up to 150% in exceptional circumstances. The Committee believes such 
circumstances now exist, as the Company undergoes an evolution in leadership and Richard 
Hutton is critical in helping to support this transition. The Committee believes his knowledge 
and experience will be essential and therefore his long-term incentive award should be 
appropriately pitched to reflect the key contribution he is expected to make over the next  
few years. Roisin Currie will receive an award at a level of 150% of salary following her 
appointment as Chief Executive in May. Roger Whiteside will not receive an award in 2022.

The Committee has considered the performance conditions and has determined that EPS  
and ROCE should continue to be used, with an equal weighting given to each. We have set 
appropriately stretching performance targets for each measure reflecting the strategic  
plan and business outlook over the performance period, whilst taking into account the  
impact of corporation tax changes on the metrics. Full details of the targets are set out  
later in this report.

The Committee will be reviewing the performance measures for future PSP awards later in 
2022 as part of the remuneration policy review including the possibility of including strategic 
measures linked to elements of The Greggs Pledge. 

UK Corporate Governance Code 
In line with the remuneration policy, as a new Executive Director, the CEO Designate will be 
required to maintain a shareholding in the Company for at least two years following cessation of 
their employment. We do not currently apply the post-employment shareholding requirements 
for the Executive Directors who were in place when the Directors’ remuneration policy was 
approved in 2020, i.e. the Finance Director and the outgoing Chief Executive. As previously 
explained, the Committee did not apply the policy for the incumbent Directors as their PSP and 
deferred bonus awards are considered to provide a very significant post-employment interest 
stretching out several years from the point of cessation. The Committee intends to address this 
when reviewing the remuneration policy ahead of the 2023 AGM with a view to proposing an 
updated policy encompassing all Executive Directors.

As previously reported, the pension contribution rates for the Finance Director and the 
outgoing Chief Executive are reducing over a five-year period until they match those 
contributions available to the workforce. As such, the Company was not fully compliant with 
Provision 38 of the Code during the year under review. As noted above, and in line with the 
Directors’ remuneration policy for new Executive Directors, the CEO Designate’s pension  
rate is aligned with that of the wider workforce.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSGreggs plcDIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

Shareholder engagement 
We continue to welcome all feedback from our shareholders as their views help us inform  
our thinking on remuneration matters and in particular when evaluating and setting the 
remuneration strategy. The Committee is committed to continue consulting with key 
shareholders and we hope we can rely on your ongoing support as we commence the work  
in 2022 on our new three-year remuneration policy, for which formal approval will be sought  
at the 2023 AGM. 

AGM
We trust that you will find this report transparent, clear and informative. The Committee has 
remained focused on ensuring that executive remuneration is closely aligned to the delivery 
of Greggs’ business strategy whilst continuing to take account of stakeholder experience, 
best practice and the wider workforce.

I look forward to receiving your support at this year’s AGM with regards to the annual report  
on remuneration. If you would like to contact me directly to discuss any aspect of this report 
then please email me at investorrelations@greggs.co.uk.

Yours faithfully 

Dr Helena Ganczakowski
Chair of the Remuneration Committee
8 March 2022

Remuneration policy report 
This section of our report is a summary of the remuneration policy for all Executive and 
Non-Executive Directors at Greggs. It explains the purpose and strategy of each element of 
the package and demonstrates how the policy will incentivise Executive Directors to achieve 
sustainable long-term growth and value to best serve the interests of the Company, its 
shareholders, its colleagues and other stakeholders.

The current Directors’ remuneration policy was approved by shareholders at our AGM on 
13 May 2020 and became effective for three years from that date. There are no proposed 
changes to this policy in 2022. 

The policy for the remuneration of the Executive and Non-Executive Directors is set out  
in the tables below:

Executive Directors

Element 

Purpose and strategy 

Operation

Base salary

To attract and retain 
high-calibre 
individuals in order  
to promote the 
long-term success  
of the business.

Benefits

To support a 
competitive 
remuneration 
package in the 
marketplace.

Reviewed and set annually  
in January.

Benchmarked periodically by the 
Committee against the remuneration 
levels for executives in similar roles 
in companies of a comparable size. 
Individual performance and 
contribution are recognised in 
setting salary levels.

Salaries are paid monthly in cash.
Benefits include provision of a 
company car (or cash in lieu), private 
medical health care, life assurance 
and permanent health insurance.

Maximum opportunity

No maximum limit is 
prescribed. Key 
reference points for 
salary increases are 
market and economic 
conditions and, in line 
with our values, the 
approach to colleague 
pay throughout the 
organisation.

No maximum limit is 
prescribed, particularly 
as the cost of providing 
insured benefits 
fluctuates over time. 
However, the 
Committee monitors  
on an annual basis the 
overall cost of the 
benefit provision. 

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcPurpose and strategy 

Operation

Maximum opportunity

Element 

Purpose and strategy 

Operation

Maximum opportunity

Element 

Pension 

To support a 
competitive 
remuneration 
package in the 
marketplace and 
ensure that pension 
contributions are 
aligned to the rate 
applying to the 
majority of the 
workforce over time.

Executive Directors can elect to 
either:
 – participate in the Company 

defined contribution pension 
scheme (up to a cap). Above the 
cap Executive Directors receive  
a salary supplement; or
take cash in lieu of this 
contribution paid as a supplement 
to their salary on a monthly basis.

 –

The Executive Directors are able to 
make this choice on an annual basis.

The Executive Directors in place 
when this remuneration policy was 
approved are having their pension 
contributions reduced over five 
years, commencing in the financial 
year 2021. The reduction will be in 
equal proportions until their 
contribution rate matches that  
of the majority of the workforce.
The bonus will be based on a mix of 
business KPIs, with operating profit 
being the largest component of the 
mix of metrics and this will not be 
less than 50% of the overall mix.

Targets for each metric are set in 
advance and in line with business 
planning objectives set by the 
Committee.

Annual bonus 
(including 
profit share)

To incentivise 
achievement of 
annual targets and 
objectives consistent 
with the short to 
medium-term 
strategic needs of 
the business, so  
as to encourage 
sustainable growth  
in the Company’s 
operating profits.

Annual bonus 
(including 
profit share) 
continued

Up to 22.5% of base 
salary contribution for 
the current Chief 
Executive and up to 15% 
of base salary for the 
Finance Director, but 
reducing to the 
percentage pension 
contribution of the 
majority of the 
workforce over time.

All new Executive 
Directors (including the 
CEO Designate) will 
have their pension 
contribution aligned  
to the rate applying to 
the majority of the 
workforce.

Capped at 150% of base 
salary for the Chief 
Executive and 125% of 
base salary for other 
Executive Directors.

On target performance 
delivers no more than 
50% of the maximum.

No more than 25% of 
the bonus opportunity 
is payable under each 
element for threshold 
performance.

Each Executive Director is entitled to 
participate in the Company’s 
profit-sharing scheme available to all 
colleagues. The value of this is then 
deducted from their annual bonus 
and is subject to the individual cap.

The Committee will use appropriate 
underpins for any non-profit based 
element of the annual bonus such 
that payment under these elements 
may be scaled back (potentially to 
zero), at the discretion of the 
Committee, if the operating profit 
performance for the year is judged to 
be running significantly below that 
required for the achievement of the 
long-term strategy.

The Committee will be able to adjust 
the formula-driven outcome from 
any bonus plan if, in the judgement of 
the Committee, this does not reflect 
broader Company performance or 
the shareholder experience, or the 
payment level is otherwise 
inappropriate.

Any bonus paid in excess of 50%  
of the maximum will be payable in 
shares, which (after any sales to pay 
tax and other statutory deductions) 
must be held in the Employee Benefit 
Trust for two years after receipt.

The dividends payable on deferred 
bonus shares are paid to the 
individual as they fall due.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSGreggs plcMaximum opportunity

150% of base salary for 
Chief Executive and 
125% of base salary  
for other Executive 
Directors (150% of base 
salary in exceptional 
circumstances).

Threshold vesting at 
25% of the maximum.

DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

Element 

Purpose and strategy 

Operation

Maximum opportunity

Element 

Purpose and strategy 

Operation

Annual bonus 
(including 
profit share) 
continued

Recovery and withholding provisions 
allow the Company to recoup annual 
bonus payments within three years in 
the event of misstatement of 
performance, error, misconduct, 
reputational damage or corporate 
failure where this has led to an 
overpayment in the view of the 
Committee. There is a flexible 
mechanism which allows the 
Company to withhold outstanding 
deferred or future remuneration  
or recover the overpayment direct 
from the individual concerned.

Performance 
Share Plan  
(PSP)

To incentivise 
long-term value 
creation, retention  
of our talent and 
ensure alignment of 
Executive Directors’ 
and shareholders’ 
interests.

Awards are granted under the PSP 
annually at the discretion of the 
Committee.

Performance conditions will be 
based on appropriate financial 
measures with targets being set  
for each metric which reflect  
the strategic plan and business 
outlook over the respective 
performance period. 

Performance will be measured over a 
three-year period with an additional 
mandatory holding period of two 
years for the vested shares (net of 
tax and other deductions).

A PSP award holder may be entitled 
to a dividend equivalent payment in 
respect of any vested shares.

The Committee will be able to adjust 
the formula-driven outcome from 
the PSP if, in the judgement of the 
Committee, this does not reflect 
broader Company performance  
or the shareholder experience,  
or the vesting level is otherwise 
inappropriate.

Recovery and withholding provisions 
allow the Company to recoup vested 
PSP awards within three years in the 
event of misstatement of 
performance, error, misconduct, 
reputational damage or corporate 
failure where this has led to an 
overpayment in the view of the 
Committee. There is a flexible 
mechanism which allows the 
Company to withhold outstanding 
deferred or future remuneration, or 
recover the overpayment directly 
from the individual concerned.

90

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcMaximum opportunity

There is no prescribed 
maximum.

Element 

Purpose and strategy 

Operation

Maximum opportunity

Element 

Purpose and strategy 

Operation

Non-Executive Directors

Non-
Executive 
Chair and 
Directors’ 
fees

To attract and retain 
high-quality and 
experienced 
Non-Executive  
Chair and Directors. 

Executive Directors 
may enter into a 
contract to save up to 
an agreed saving limit in 
line with all colleagues 
in the business and 
HMRC guidelines.

n/a

Savings-
Related Share 
Option 
Schemes 
(SAYE  
and SIP)

Share 
retention 
guidelines 

To encourage 
colleagues at all 
levels within the 
Company to 
understand better 
and so participate  
in the growth in value 
of the Company.
To further align  
the interests of 
Executive Directors 
to those of 
shareholders.

No performance conditions have 
been attached to options granted 
pursuant to the Company’s SAYE  
and SIP Schemes, which are available 
for all colleagues.

Executive Directors are required to 
build up a shareholding of 200% of 
base salary. Where an Executive 
Director has not reached the 
required level, 50% of the shares 
vesting from incentive schemes 
must be held until this requirement 
has been met. 

This is achieved through vested 
awards granted via the PSP and 
deferred bonus shares.

For any new Executive Directors 
appointed there will be a two-year 
post-employment holding 
requirement at the lower of the level 
of the shareholding guideline 
immediately prior to departure or the 
actual shareholding at departure.

The Chair is paid an all-
encompassing fee.

Non-Executive Directors are paid a 
basic fee and the Chairs of the Main 
Board Committees and the Senior 
Independent Director are paid an 
additional fee to reflect their 
additional responsibilities. 

These fees are usually reviewed  
and set annually. Additional fees may 
be paid where there is a material 
increase in the time commitments, 
responsibilities required of 
Non-Executive Directors or following 
a review of market rates.

Non-Executive Directors are not 
eligible for pension scheme 
membership, bonus or incentive 
arrangements. 

They are entitled to reimbursement 
of reasonable business expenses 
and tax thereon. They may also 
receive limited travel or 
accommodation-related benefits  
in connection with their role as  
a Director.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSGreggs plcAnnual bonus and PSP awards will not exceed the policy maxima (not including any 
arrangements to replace forfeited deferred pay). Participation in the annual bonus plan will 
normally be pro-rated for the year of joining. The Committee may make one-off additional 
cash and/or share-based awards as it deems appropriate, and if the circumstances so 
demand, to take account of deferred pay forfeited by an Executive Director on leaving a 
previous employer. Awards to replace deferred pay forfeited would, where possible, reflect 
the nature of awards forfeited in terms of delivery mechanism (cash or shares), time horizons, 
attributed expected value and performance conditions. Other payments may be made in 
relation to relocation expenses and other incidental expenses as appropriate. Any buyout 
awards would be made under existing arrangements where possible or as permitted under  
the Listing Rules.

In the case of an internal appointment, any variable pay element awarded in respect of  
the prior role would be allowed to pay out according to its terms and any other ongoing 
remuneration obligations existing prior to appointment would continue.

In line with our Remuneration Policy, all new Executive Directors will have their pension 
contribution aligned to the rate applying to the majority of the workforce.

For the appointment of a new Chair or Non-Executive Director, the fee arrangement  
would be set in accordance with the approved remuneration policy at that time.

DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

Choice of performance measures and policy discretion 
The remuneration policy provides the Remuneration Committee with the flexibility to choose 
appropriate performance conditions for the annual bonus scheme and for PSP awards, 
subject to the constraints set out in the table above. The choice of metrics will depend upon 
the strategic focus for the Group at the time decisions around the awards are taken. The 
specific measures and the targets used to assess performance will be disclosed in the 
Directors’ remuneration report on an annual basis.

The Committee will operate incentive plans in accordance with their respective rules,  
the Listing Rules and HMRC limits where relevant. The Committee, consistent with  
market practice, retains discretion over a number of areas relating to the operation and 
administration of certain plan rules. These include (but are not limited to) the following: 
 – who participates; 
 – the timing of the grant of award and/or payment;
 – the size of an award (up to plan/policy limits) and/or a payment;
 – discretion relating to the measurement of performance in the event of a change of control 

or reconstruction;

 – determination of a good leaver (in addition to any specified categories) for incentive plan 

purposes and the treatment of leavers; and

 – adjustments required in certain circumstances (e.g. rights issues, corporate restructuring 

and special dividends); and the ability to adjust, but not waive, existing performance 
conditions for exceptional events so that they can still fulfil their original purpose.

Legacy arrangements
For the avoidance of doubt, in approving this policy report, authority is given to the Company  
to honour any commitments entered into with current or former Directors (such as the 
payment of a pension or the unwinding of legacy share schemes) that have been disclosed  
to shareholders in previous remuneration reports. Details of any of these payments to  
former Directors will be set out in the annual report on remuneration as they arise.

Policy on recruitment remuneration
The Committee will set a new Executive Director’s remuneration package in line with the 
Company’s approved policy at the time of appointment. In arriving at a total package and in 
considering the quantum for each element of that package, the Committee will take into 
account the skills and experience of the candidate, the market rate for a candidate of that 
experience as well as the importance of securing the best available candidate. 

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcService contracts and policy on cessation
Executive Directors’ service contracts contain the following remuneration-related aspects:

Provision 

Remuneration

Notice period

Detailed terms 

 – Salary, pension and benefits;
 – company car or cash allowance;
 – private medical health care for the Director;
 – permanent health insurance;
 – participation in annual bonus and profit share  

(subject to scheme rules);

 – participation in long-term incentive schemes or similar 

 –

 –
 –

arrangements (subject to scheme rules); and
life assurance.
the Chief Executive’s service contract is terminable on 12 
months’ notice served by either the Company or the Director;
the Finance Director’s service contract is terminable on  
12 months’ notice served by the Company or by six months’  
notice served by the Director; 
the CEO Designate’s service contract is terminable on 12 months’ 
notice served by either the Company or the Director; and
 – any future Executive Directors’ service contracts will be 

 –

Termination payment

 – Payment in lieu of notice equal to any unexpired notice of 

terminable on up to 12 months’ notice served by either party.

termination given by either party; and 

 – payment in lieu shall not include:

 – any bonus payment;
 – any payment in respect of benefits which the Director  

would have been entitled to receive; and

 – any payment in respect of any holiday entitlement that would 
have accrued during the period for which the payment in lieu 
is made.

Details of the circumstances in which the Committee has the  
ability to exercise discretion with regards to termination payments 
are set out below.

Under their service contracts, if notice is served the Executive Directors are entitled to salary, 
pension contributions and benefits for their notice period save where a payment in lieu is to  
be made. The Company would seek to ensure that any payment is mitigated by use of phased 
payments and offset against earnings elsewhere in the event that an Executive Director finds 
alternative employment during their notice period. There are no contractual provisions in 
force other than those set out above that impact any termination payment. 

Areas where the Committee can exercise discretion with regards to termination payments  
are set out below:
 – any right to annual bonus in the year of departure would lapse unless the individual is 

leaving in good leaver circumstances, in which case a bonus may be payable pro-rated  
for that part of the year worked;

 – deferred bonus shares must normally be retained in trust until the end of their two-year 

holding period, but may be released early in exceptional circumstances, such as ill-health;

 – any unvested awards held under the PSP will lapse at cessation, unless the individual is 
leaving in good leaver circumstances (defined under the plan as death, injury, ill-health, 
disability, redundancy, retirement, their office or employment being with either a company 
which ceases to be a Group member or relating to a business or part of a business which is 
transferred to a person who is not a Group member, a change of control or any other reason 
the Committee so decides). In these circumstances, unvested awards will normally vest at 
the normal vesting date (other than on death or where the Committee decides they should 
vest at cessation) subject to performance conditions being met and scaling back in respect 
of actual service as a proportion of the total vesting period (unless the Committee decides 
that scaling back is inappropriate). Vested awards will normally be subject to the mandatory 
two-year holding period although the Committee will have discretion to waive this in 
exceptional circumstances; and

 – the Committee may agree to payment of disbursements such as legal costs and 

outplacement services if appropriate and depending on the circumstances of cessation.

The table below sets out the details of the Executive Directors’ service contracts:

Director

Roger Whiteside
Richard Hutton
Roisin Currie 

Date of contract

4 February 2013
7 April 2006
1 February 2022

The service contracts are available for inspection during normal business hours  
at the Company’s registered office, and are available for inspection at the AGM.

9393

Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSGreggs plcDIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

Expected value of the proposed annual remuneration package  
for Executive Directors 

CEO Designate – Roisin Currie

The following charts indicate the level of remuneration payable to Executive Directors  
(whilst on the Board) in 2022 based on policy at minimum remuneration, remuneration  
in line with ‘on target’ Company performance, and the maximum remuneration available.

 PSP
 Bonus
 Fixed remuneration

Finance Director – Richard Hutton

£1,800,000

£1,600,000

£1,400,000

£1,200,000

£1,000,000

£800,000

£600,000

£400,000

£200,000

£0

£1,813,685

%
9
4

%
7
2

%
4
2

£1,518,710

%
9
3

%
2
3

%
9
2

£982,020

%
0
3

%
5
2

%
5
4

£445,329

%
0
0
1

Minimum

On target

Stretch

50% 
share price 
appreciation

Fixed remuneration:
– Salary
– Pension
– Benefits
Bonus
Performance Share Plan
Total

Minimum

On target

Stretch

50% share price 
appreciation

£393,300
£39,330
£12,699
–
–
£445,329

£393,300
£39,330
£12,699
£241,716
£294,975
£982,020

£393,300
£39,330
£12,699
£483,431
£589,950
£1,518,710

£393,300
£39,330
£12,699
£483,431
£884,925
£1,813,685

 PSP
 Bonus
 Fixed remuneration

£2,500,000

£2,000,000

£1,500,000

£1,000,000

£500,000

£0

£2,475,027

%
4
5

£2,025,027

%
4
4

%
8
2

%
7
2

%
4
2

%
2
2

£1,283,024

%
5
3

%
3
2

%
2
4

£541,021

%
0
0
1

Minimum

On target

Stretch

50% 
share price 
appreciation

Fixed remuneration:
– Salary
– Pension
– Benefits
Bonus
Performance Share Plan
Total

Minimum

On target

Stretch

£490,860
£19,634
£30,537
–
–
£541,021

£490,860
£19,634
£30,537
£292,003
£450,000
£1,283,024

£490,860
£19,634
£30,537
£584,006
£900,000
£2,025,027

50% share price 
appreciation

£490,860
£19,634
£30,537
£584,006
£1,350,000
£2,475,027

Assumptions used in the charts:
Base salary levels as at 1 January 2022 (Richard Hutton) or date of appointment (Roisin Currie).
The value of taxable benefits is based on the cost of supplying those benefits at the agreed level for Richard Hutton.  
The value for Roisin Currie is estimated based on the cost of supplying those benefits at the agreed level and her  
expected travel arrangements.

Bonus 
Minimum remuneration – assumes no award is earned under the annual bonus plan.
On target remuneration – the annual bonus plan assumes the target level is reached for each of the elements, resulting  
in a pay-out of 50% of the maximum.
Stretch remuneration – assumes satisfaction of all performance conditions for all elements under the annual bonus plan  
and therefore full pay out. 

PSP element is calculated as award percentage of base salary multiplied by the relevant vesting percentage.  
Share price movement and dividend accrual have been excluded, other than in the 50% share price appreciation model.
Minimum remuneration – assumes no vesting is achieved under the PSP.
On target remuneration – assumes 50% vesting is achieved.
Stretch remuneration – assumes 100% vesting is achieved.

94

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcTerms of appointment of Non-Executive Directors
Non-Executive Directors are appointed subject to the Company’s articles of association, 
retiring and seeking election at the first AGM after appointment. 

Thereafter, every Director will be subject to annual re-election by shareholders. The 
Nominations Committee advises the Board as to whether Directors should be nominated for 
re-election. Non-Executive Directors are not entitled to compensation for early termination  
of their appointments prior to the date on which they would next be due to offer themselves  
for election or re-election, or if not re-appointed at such time.

A. How our remuneration links to strategy and reward across the wider workforce
Link to strategy 
Growth drivers – remuneration at Greggs is intended to incentivise sustainable and profitable 
business growth. This is reflected in key metrics in the variable pay incentive plans including 
operating profit, like-for-like sales, EPS, ROCE and cost savings.

Strategic pillars and key drivers of growth – delivery against the four strategic pillars and  
key drivers of growth is incentivised as appropriate by strategic metrics in the annual bonus 
scheme – for example specific project delivery.

The letters of appointment for the Non-Executive Directors are available for inspection during 
normal business hours at the Company’s registered office, and are available for inspection at 
the AGM.

The Greggs Pledge – our commitment to deliver these goals is supported with the inclusion  
of ESG (e.g. food waste) targets.

The following table shows the effective date of appointment for each Non-Executive Director:

Non-Executive Director

Ian Durant
Helena Ganczakowski
Sandra Turner
Kate Ferry 
Mohamed Elsarky

Original date of appointment

5 October 2011
2 January 2014
1 May 2014
1 June 2019
21 June 2021

Current Non-Executive Directors are appointed on an understanding that the appointment  
will last for at least six years, but without any commitment by either party.

All new Non-Executive Directors, from June 2019, are appointed for an initial term of  
three years unless terminated earlier by either party giving to the other party three months’ 
written notice.

Reward across the wider workforce 
The remuneration policy for the Executive Directors is designed having regard to the policy  
for colleagues across the Group as a whole and wider workforce remuneration and related 
policies. Through 2022 we are looking to engage with our colleagues on the terms of Executive 
Director remuneration and the development of the new three year Remuneration policy.  
The Remuneration Committee engaged with a representative group of colleagues in 2021  
to explain how remuneration for Directors aligns with wider Company pay policy and plans 
further engagement sessions in 2022.

There are differences in salary levels and in the levels of potential reward depending upon 
seniority and responsibility, although a key reference point for Executive Director salary 
increases is the average base pay increase across the general workforce. 

We share 10% of our profits annually with our colleagues across the business, and everyone  
is eligible to participate in this profit-sharing scheme after six months’ service. A higher 
proportion of the Executive Directors’ remuneration package is delivered through 
performance-related incentive schemes, much of which is in share-based form, which 
provides a good link to long-term Company performance and shareholder experience.  
Share option incentive schemes and bonus participation extends below Board level, with  
a separate share option scheme in place for Senior Management colleagues and a bonus 
scheme for graded management. Both the share option and management bonus schemes  
are aligned to those of the Executive Directors and are subject to the same performance 
targets and measures. 

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSGreggs plcDIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

All colleagues with one year’s service or more may participate in the Sharesave scheme 
(where colleagues can save to purchase shares at the end of a three-year period at a discount 
to the price at the date of grant) and in the Share Incentive Plan (SIP) (where colleagues can 
purchase shares from pre-tax salary subject to HMRC limits). These schemes are generally 
offered annually. 

B. Remuneration Committee activity for the 52 weeks ended 1 January 2022
Meetings during the year
The Remuneration Committee met four times during the year. Details of the Committee 
members’ attendance are given on page 71. 

Compliance with the UK Corporate Governance Code
The Directors’ remuneration policy is fully compliant with the relevant factors set out in the  
UK Corporate Governance Code:

Clarity 

Simplicity 

Predictability 

Proportionality, risk and 
alignment to culture 

We are open and transparent in our approach to remuneration taking into 
account the experience of our colleagues, shareholders and stakeholders. 
We regularly engage with stakeholders on remuneration matters. 
Our remuneration policy is simple and consistent in its approach. Senior 
management share option and management bonus schemes are aligned 
to those of the Executive Directors and are subject to the same 
performance criteria. 
Our remuneration policy clearly outlines the details of maximum 
opportunity levels for each component of pay. Incentive levels vary 
depending on the level of performance against specific metrics.  
The typical award levels and potential pay-outs are disclosed in the 
remuneration policy and it has been demonstrated in this statement  
how outcomes have been aligned with performance and strategy.
Pay outcomes are dependent upon performance linked to our business 
strategy and growth plans as well as taking into account our wider 
workforce remuneration and specific Greggs culture. This ensures a 
significant proportion of pay is delivered in shares to provide alignment 
with investors and incorporates other best practice features in line with 
the UK Corporate Governance Code and investor guidelines.

The use of annual bonus deferral and PSP holding periods provides a 
clear link to the ongoing performance of the business and therefore 
alignment with shareholders. 

All members are considered to be independent for the purpose of the UK Corporate 
Governance Code. The Company Secretary acts as Secretary to the Committee. 

Role and responsibilities 
Responsibility is delegated to the Remuneration Committee to ensure that an effective 
remuneration policy is in place for the Chief Executive, other Executive Directors, the  
Chair and senior management whilst reviewing and taking into account wider workforce 
remuneration and the Company values and culture. It is the Committee’s role to establish a 
remuneration policy that promotes both long-term shareholdings by Executive Directors  
and ensures alignment of policies and practices to support business strategy, promote  
the long-term sustainable success of the business and meet shareholder expectations. 

Summary of Committee activity during 2021
Details of some of the activities the Committee has undertaken have been outlined in the 
Chair’s letter as well as being summarised below. 
 – Consulted in January 2021 with our largest shareholders on the potential of permitting 
some of the 2018-2020 PSP award to vest. We concluded that we would not exercise 
discretion and this decision was outlined in the 2020 Directors’ remuneration report;
 – Reviewed all colleague remuneration and agreed the early implementation of the 2022  

pay award for colleagues;

 – Discussed and reviewed Directors’ salaries;
 – Agreed the challenging targets for the 2021 bonus and PSP in a particularly uncertain  

and challenging environment; 

 – Discussed the 2021 bonus outturn and 2019 PSP award vesting in light of the wider  

socio-economic environment and the wider workforce; 

The Committee has the discretion to apply malus and clawback in  
both annual bonus and PSP.

 – Reviewed the 2022 bonus metrics; 
 – Approved grants under the share option scheme (to senior managers below  

Operating Board level);

 – Approved the all-colleague SAYE and SIP scheme grants; 

96

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc – Reviewed Executive Directors’ and senior management’s shareholdings in the Company,  

in the context of shareholding guidelines; 

 – Held a listening group with colleagues to support understanding of the work of  

Shareholder dialogue
The Committee actively engages with shareholders and their views and these are taken  
into account in shaping both remuneration policy and practice. 

the Remuneration Committee; 

 – Agreed the leaving terms for Roger Whiteside; 
 – Agreed the appointment terms for Roisin Currie; and
 – Reviewed and agreed changes to the variable pay elements of Richard Hutton’s 

AGM voting outcomes
The voting outcome from the 2021 AGM reflected both strong individual and institutional 
shareholder support and the results are outlined below. 

remuneration package.

Structure and content of the remuneration report 
The remuneration report has been prepared in accordance with the provisions of the 
Companies Act 2006 (the ’Act’) and The Large and Medium-sized Companies and Groups 
(Accounts and Reports) (Amendment) Regulations 2013 (the ‘Regulations’). It also meets  
the requirements of the UK Listing Authority’s Listing Rules.

The Regulations also require our auditor to report to shareholders on the audited information 
within this remuneration report and to state whether, in their opinion, the relevant sections 
have been prepared in accordance with the Act and the Regulations. The auditor’s opinion is 
set out on pages 108 to 115 and we have indicated appropriately the audited sections of this 
remuneration report.

Remuneration advice
The Chief Executive along with Jonathan Jowett (Company Secretary and General Counsel), 
and Emma Walton (People Director) are normally invited to attend the Committee meetings  
in order to provide advice and support to the Committee. The Finance Director attends where 
required. During the year Korn Ferry (who have no connection to the Company or any individual 
Director) provided remuneration advice the Committee. Korn Ferry were appointed as 
advisors by the Committee in December 2017 following an informal tender process.

Korn Ferry is a signatory to the Remuneration Consultants’ Code of Conduct in relation to 
executive remuneration consulting in the UK. 

The Committee reviewed the operating processes in place at Korn Ferry and is satisfied that 
the advice it receives is objective and independent. Fees paid to Korn Ferry during the year 
were £65,000. Korn Ferry did not provide any other services to the Company during 2021.

For
Against
Total votes cast (excluding votes withheld)
Votes withheld
Total votes cast (including votes withheld)

Approve the remuneration report

% of  
votes cast

97.32%
2.68%
100.00%

Total number  
of votes

64,565,155
1,780,311
66,345,439
5,354,514
71,699,980

Shareholders were asked to approve the remuneration policy at the 2020 AGM and the results 
are outlined below: 

For
Against
Total votes cast (excluding votes withheld)
Votes withheld
Total votes cast (including votes withheld)

Approve the remuneration policy

% of  
votes cast

95.71%
4.29%
100.00%

Total number 
of votes

66,782,219
2,990,047
69,772,266
4,777,374
74,549,640

9797

Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSGreggs plcDIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

C. How our remuneration policy will be implemented in 2022 – Executive Directors
The section below summarises the implementation of our remuneration policy for 2022.

Base salary 2022
The annual base salaries for the Executive Directors were reviewed with effect from 1 January 
2022; increases and current salaries are outlined below: 

Director

Roger Whiteside (Chief Executive)
Richard Hutton (Finance Director)

Salary 
1 January 2021

Salary 
1 January 2022

£575,209
£380,000

£575,209
£393,300

% increase

0%
3.5%

Roisin Currie

Salary  
1 February 2022  
(CEO Designate)

Salary  
17 May 2022  
(Chief Executive)

£400,000

£600,000

The pension contribution rates for 2022 (all of which are cash in lieu) are:

Roger Whiteside
Richard Hutton
Roisin Currie

15.1% 
10.0% 
4.0%

Annual bonus 2022
The annual bonus opportunity for 2022 is outlined below: 

Chief Executive

CEO Designate 

Finance Director

Maximum opportunity of 125% of base salary. Bonus in excess of 50%  
of maximum will be payable in shares deferred for two years.
Maximum opportunity of 100% of base salary. Bonus in excess of 50%  
of maximum will be payable in shares deferred for two years.
Maximum opportunity of 125% of base salary. Bonus in excess of 50%  
of maximum will be payable in shares deferred for two years.

With effect from 1 January 2022 the Committee agreed a salary increase of 3.5%  
for the Finance Director, in line with the base increase for the workforce generally. 

Any bonus for Roger Whiteside for 2022 will be on the basis of his employment up to 17 May 
2022. He will not be entitled to receive a bonus for the period from 18 May 2022.

As Roger Whiteside is under his period of notice through to 5 January 2023 he was not 
awarded the annual base salary increase. His current salary and benefits will be payable  
up to and including 5 January 2023.

There will be a transition period for Roisin Currie prior to becoming Chief Executive. As of 
1 February 2022, Roisin Currie was appointed as an Executive Director in the role of CEO 
Designate. Following the AGM, and subject to election by shareholders, she will be appointed 
as Chief Executive with immediate effect. Roger Whiteside will step down from the Board  
at the AGM. 

Pension contribution 2022
As per our remuneration policy, contributions for the current Chief Executive (Roger 
Whiteside) and Finance Director will reduce following a glide path over a five-year period  
from 1 January 2021, reducing by 3.7% and 2% of salary p.a., respectively, until contributions 
are aligned to the rate applying to majority of the workforce. 

On appointment as an Executive Director on 1 February 2022, in accordance with our 
Remuneration Policy, the pension contribution for Roisin Currie will be 4%, in line with  
the pension contribution of the majority of the workforce. 

Richard Hutton’s bonus opportunity will increase from 100% to 125% of basic salary to align 
with the current bonus level for the Chief Executive and the limit in the remuneration policy  
to further incentivise him to drive outperformance during a period of management change, 
and to help ensure his ongoing commitment and retention.

Roisin Currie’s maximum bonus opportunity will be 100% of base salary for the period she is in 
the role of CEO Designate from 1 February 2022 to 16 May 2022. As of 17 May 2022, when Roisin 
Currie is appointed as Chief Executive, her bonus opportunity will increase to 125% of salary.

The annual bonus is based on performance against a range of financial and strategic 
performance measures. This range of metrics measures achievement of the Company’s key 
operational objectives. The Committee reviews the key performance indicators (KPIs) each 
year and varies them as appropriate to reflect the priorities for the business in the year ahead. 
Where appropriate a sliding scale of targets is set for each KPI to encourage continuous 
improvement, or sustained high performance with a maximum of 10% bonus paid out for 
threshold performance for the profit and sales elements of the bonus.

Targets are normally set at the start of the year by the Committee using the outturn and 
performance in the previous year, as well as the business plan, to determine appropriately 
stretching sliding scales. Bonus targets for the forthcoming year are considered to be  

98

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc 
commercially sensitive. Retrospective disclosure of the targets and performance against 
them will be made in next year’s annual report on remuneration.

The bonus metrics are:

Measure

Profit

Sales

Weighting 
Detail and link  
to strategy

50% of total
Reflects the profit of the 
Group (excluding exceptional 
items) before tax. This will  
be based on meeting and 
exceeding budget for 
the year. 

20% of total
Based on company-
managed shop like-for-
like sales excluding any 
additional shops opened 
during the bonus year.

Strategic objectives

30% of total
Outlined below.

The strategic objectives for each bonus cycle are based on measures which will provide a 
strong link to strategy and our four key growth drivers as well as recognising our responsibility 
and commitments in The Greggs Pledge. For the 2022 bonus there will be three strategic 
objectives each relating to 10% of the bonus opportunity. They are:
 – 10% based on business efficiency/cost savings;
 – 10% based on growth in evening sales; and 
 – 10% based on an element of The Greggs Pledge (food waste targets). 

Following a review of performance by the Committee, any payment under the non-profit-
based element of the bonus may be scaled back (potentially to zero) at the discretion of the 
Committee, in the event that the profit performance for the year is judged to be running 
significantly below that required for the achievement of the long-term strategy.

PSP award 2022
PSP awards will be granted as follows:

Chief Executive (Roisin Currie)
Finance Director 

150% of base salary 
150% of base salary 

Richard Hutton will receive an award at a level of 150% of salary. Although the normal 
maximum grant level under the remuneration policy is 125% of salary, we can grant up to 150% 
in exceptional circumstances. The Committee believe such circumstances now exist, as the 
Company undergoes an evolution in leadership and Richard Hutton is critical in helping to 
support this transition. The Committee believe his knowledge and experience will be essential 
and therefore his long-term incentive award should be appropriately pitched to reflect the key 
contribution he is expected to make over the next few years. 

The PSP awards for the Executive Directors are normally granted in the period following the 
announcement of the financial results for the prior year. This will continue to be the case for 
the 2022 PSP award for the Finance Director. 

The 2022 PSP award for Roisin Currie will be granted the day after her appointment into the 
role of Chief Executive, 18 May 2022.

In light of his retirement, no PSP award will be granted to Roger Whiteside in 2022.

Performance conditions will continue to be based on an equal split of two different financial 
measures, EPS and ROCE. These measures provide a rounded assessment of our overall 
profitability against stretching targets set in line with the strategic plan and business outlook 
over the performance period. For these awards both the EPS and ROCE range have been  
set to ensure that the targets remain appropriate in light of our business strategy over the 
coming three-year period, whilst taking into account the impact of corporation tax changes  
on the metrics. For 2022 we will be reverting to the percentage growth in EPS instead of 
absolute growth. 

For the 2022 awards the target ranges will be as follows:
 – The EPS performance condition will require average annual growth in EPS over  

the performance period to be between 3.0% and 8.0%; and

 – The ROCE condition will require average ROCE over the performance period to be  

between 19.6% to 22.6%.

In both cases 25% of an award will vest on achieving threshold performance and thereafter 
straight-line sliding scales will apply until stretch performance is achieved.

The EPS and ROCE targets represent a significant increase compared to the targets for  
the 2020 PSP awards. 

A holding period is attached to vested PSP awards, requiring the vested shares to be held 
(net of tax and other deductions) for a further two years.

9999

Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSGreggs plcDIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

How our remuneration policy will be implemented in 2022 – Non-Executive Directors 
In order to ensure that no Director is involved in deciding their own remuneration, the fees 
payable to Non-Executive Directors are set, after consultation with the Chair, by a Committee 
of the Board consisting only of the Executive Directors. The fees payable to the Chair are set 
by the Remuneration Committee.

D. How our remuneration policy was implemented in 2021
Total Executive Director remuneration payable for 2021 (audited). 
The following table presents the remuneration payable for 2021 (showing the equivalent 
figures for 2020) for the Executive Directors. 

The Non-Executive Directors are paid an annual base fee and additional responsibility fees  
for the role of Senior Independent Director (SID) or for chairing a Board Committee. 

These fees are usually reviewed and set annually. The fees were increased by 3.5% on 
1 January 2022 in line with the base salary increase for the whole workforce. Following  
a review of both the Audit and Remuneration committee chair roles and the Senior 
Independent Director role, the additional fee for these roles was increased to £12,000 pa  
from 1 April 2022. This is to ensure the fee reflects both the time commitment required  
and the current market rates. 

Details of the fees being paid to Non-Executive Directors in 2022 are set out below:

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Roger Whiteside
2021
2020
Richard Hutton
2021
2020

575,209
518,4612

380,000
312,5862

108,139
116,654

12,644
14,2044

695,992
649,319

716,854
–

547,022 1,263,876 1,959,868
649,319

–

–

44,387
42,549

9,500
10,441

433,887
365,576

378,860
–

258,121 
– 

636,981  1,070,868
365,576

– 

Annual 
additional fee  
to 31 March 
2022

Annual 
additional fee  
from 1 April 
2022

Fee 
to 31 March  
2022

Fee
from 1 April  
2022

–

– £205,256  £205,256

Base fee

£205,256

£52,630

£10,526

£12,000

£63,156

£64,630

Notes: 
1 

The value of the PSP award for 2021, due to vest on 11 April 2022, is based on the level of vesting (50%) and the average share 
price over the final three months of the financial year of £30.78. The amount attributable to share price appreciation is 
£221,797 for Roger Whiteside and £104,661 for Richard Hutton. This figure will be trued up in the 2022 report to reflect  
the share price at the vesting date.

2  For the period of 1 April 2020 to 31 August 2020 the salaries of the Executive Directors were voluntarily reduced by 20%.
3   Taxable benefits relate to cash-in-lieu of a company car, private medical health care and travel expenses paid.
4  This figure has been amended to include taxable travel expenses which were omitted in the 2020 report.

Name

Ian Durant
Kate Ferry

Helena 
Ganczakowski

Sandra Turner

Mohamed Elsarky

Position

Chair
Chair of the Audit 
Committee
Chair of the 
Remuneration 
Committee 
Non-Executive  
Director & SID 
Non-Executive  
Director

£52,630

£10,526

£12,000

£63,156

£64,630

£52,630

£7,894

£12,000

£60,524

£64,630

£52,630

–

–

£52,630

£52,630

These fees may be subject to change during the year based on any change in responsibility or time commitment or to ensure 
they remain in line with the current market rates.

100

Fees for Non-Executive Directors (audited)
The fees for Non-Executive Directors were as follows: 

Ian Durant
Helena Ganczakowski
Peter McPhillips* 
Sandra Turner
Kate Ferry
Mohamed Elsarky**

*   Peter McPhillips retired from the Board on 31 July 2021
**  Mohamed Elsarky joined the Board on 1 June 2021

2021

£198,315
£61,020
£29,663
£58,478
£61,020
£26,966

2020

£178,750
£51,575
£45,833
£53,565
£55,000
–

For the period 1 April 2020 to 31 August 2020 the fees of the Chair and Non-Executive Directors 
were voluntarily reduced by 20%.

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Maximum 10%

Agree and sign off with 
the Board a clear, robust 
action plan for the top 
two focus areas as 
identified through the 
analysis and modelling

As % of maximum

99.7% 
99.7% 

Annual bonus 2021 (audited)
The table below outlines the bonus performance conditions in respect of the 2021 bonus 
scheme.

Strategic objective

Weighting

Entry

Target

Stretch

Actual

% 

50% £98.0m  £103.0m  £108.0m £145.6m

50.0% 

Sustainability (10%) 

Metric

Undertake analysis and 
modelling of Scope 3 
carbon emissions in line 
with our Greggs Pledge 
ambition to be ‘net zero’ 
by 2040 

Undertake analysis  
and modelling of Scope 3 
carbon emissions and 
present findings to  
the Board

Measure

Profit  
(£)

Sales  
(%)

Strategic  
(£)
Strategic 

Strategic 

To deliver target 
profit before tax 
(excluding 
exceptional items 
and property profits)
Two-year like-for-
like sales 
performance
Cost savings

Reduction in  
food waste

Increase food 
redistribution*
Sustainability*

Strategic
Total weighting based on 
balanced scorecard

20%

(8.0%) 

(7.0%) 

(6.0%)

(3.3%) 

20.0% 

Bonus achieved for 2021

10%

£3.0m

£5.0m 

£7.0m 

£7.78m

10.0%

Roger Whiteside
Richard Hutton

5%

£5.13m

£4.86m

5%

21.45%

29.25%

17.7% 
reduction 
to £4.44m
28.4%

10%
100%

See below

Achieved

5.0%

4.7%

10.0%
99.7%

* 

further details on the strategic targets are set out below

Reduction in food waste (5%)

Metric

A 10% reduction in food 
waste across our supply 
sites based on our 2019 
year end waste figure 
(£5.4m) 

5% reduction in total  
food waste across our 
supply sites to £5.13m

sliding scale to…

Maximum 10%

10% reduction in total 
food waste across our 
supply sites to £4.86m

Increase food redistribution (5%)

Metric

Distribute an increased 
percentage of unsold 
food ahead of the 2019 
end of year actual  
of 19.5% 

sliding scale to…

10% increase in amount  
of unsold food 
redistributed year-on-year 
to 21.45%

Maximum 5%

50% increase in amount  
of unsold food 
redistributed year-on-year 
to 29.25%

Earnings per 
share (50%)

ROCE (50%)

Normalised ** 
average annual 
EPS growth of  
5 – 11% per annum 
over three 
financial years
Average annual 
ROCE over the 
three-year 
performance 
period

There were no bonus payments made in 2021 and therefore no deferred shares were awarded 
to the Executive Directors in 2021 in respect to the 2020 bonus year. 

Performance Share Plan award for performance over 2019-2021(audited)
The PSP award granted in 2019 measured EPS performance by reference to the three financial 
years to 1 January 2022 and average annual ROCE over the three-year performance period 
2019 to 2021. The performance targets that were set, together with the performance 
delivered, are set out in the table below. 

Metric

Condition

Threshold target

Stretch target

5% p.a.
(12.5% vesting)

11% p.a.
(50%vesting)

Actual*

22.7%

% vesting 

50%

24% 
(12.5% vesting)

28% 
(50% vesting)

23.13%

0%

*  

from 30 December 2018 the Company implemented IFRS 16 and chose to use the modified transition approach. The figures 
for 2018 (which form the base for the measurement of the awards granted in 2019) were not restated and, as a result, were 
determined on a different accounting basis to the 2021 results. The Remuneration Committee agreed at the time IFRS 16 
was implemented to make appropriate adjustments to reflect the impact of IFRS 16. The adjustment figure is an increase to 

Total vesting

50%

101101

Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSGreggs plcDIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

profit before tax of £4.749 million giving an adjusted figure of £150.0 million. The tax charge is increased by £0.890 million to 
give an adjusted profit after tax of £121 million. For the calculation of ROCE the total assets less current liabilities have been 
reduced by £245.872 million to reflect the impact of the inclusion of right-of-use assets and current lease liabilities.

Performance Share Plan awards granted in 2021 (audited)
Performance Share Plan Awards granted during 2021 are as follows:

**  normalised EPS is the Company’s reported earnings per share excluding exceptional items

The figures used for the measurement of PSP performance can be reconciled to the  
statutory accounts as follows:

EPS

Profit before tax
Income tax 
Profit after tax
Weighted average number of ordinary shares during 
the year (see Note 9)
Earnings per share

2021 as reported 
(see page 116)
£m

IFRS 16 
adjustments
£m

2021 for PSP 
calculations
£m

145.6 
(28.1)
117.5 

4.7 
(0.9)
3.8 

150.3 
(29.0)
121.3 

101,488,573 
115.7p

101,488,573 
3.8p

101,488,573 
119.5p

When compared to the 2018 base EPS of 71.1p the 2021 adjusted figure of 119.5p gives  
an annual average increase of 22.7%.

Executive

Type of  
award

Basis of  
award granted

Share price 
at date of 
grant (6 April 
2021)

Number of 
shares over 
which award 
was granted

Face value  
of award

% of face 
value that 
would vest at 
threshold 
performance

Vesting 
performance 
measurement 
period

Roger Whiteside Nil-cost 
options

150%  

of salary

£22.72

37,975

£862,812

125%  

Richard Hutton

of salary

£22.72

20,906 £475,000

25%

Financial 
year 2023

For the 2021 grant there are two independent performance targets applying to an award.

Each performance target accounts for 50% of the award:
 – 50% is subject to a performance target based on the Company’s earnings per share  

(pence per share) in 2023 being between 77.2p and 105.3p. 

 – 50% is subject to a performance target based on the Company’s return on capital  

employed being in 2023 to be in the range 14.8 % to 19.5%.

ROCE

Profit before tax (see page 116)
Capital employed
Opening

Closing

Average
Return on capital employed

2021 as reported
£m

IFRS 16 
adjustments
£m

145.6 

4.7 

2021 for PSP 
calculations
£m

150.3 

For each metric, 25% of the award will vest on achieving threshold performance and thereafter 
straight-line sliding scales will apply until stretch performance is achieved. A holding period is 
attached to vested PSP awards requiring the vested shares to be held (net of tax) for a further 
two years.

586.5

681.5

633.6
23.0%

(235.4)

(245.9)

(240.6)

351.1

435.6

393.3
38.2%

Adjusted ROCE in 2019 and 2020 was 33.6% and (2.4%), respectively, and when combined  
with the adjusted figure for 2021 of 38.2% this gives an average of 23.13%

These awards will vest on 11 April 2022.

102

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcOutstanding share awards (audited)
The following table sets out details of the PSP and savings-related share options (all of which 
were granted at a £nil cost to the Executive Director concerned) held by, or granted to, each 
Executive Director who served during the year:

The mid-market price of ordinary shares in the Company as at 1 January 2022 was £33.37.  
The highest and lowest mid-market prices of ordinary shares during the financial year were 
£34.16 and £17.71, respectively.

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f
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t
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t
n
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f
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57,303 
52,800
35,543
46,228

– 57,3031 
–
–
–
– 37,975
–
–
–
75

–
–  52,800
–
–
–
1242
–
–
–

– 
–
– 35,543
– 46,228
– 37,975
–
–
–
–

£nil May 17 £10.72 May 20 May 27
£nil Mar 18 £11.96 Mar 21 Mar 28
£nil Apr 19 £18.30 Apr 22 Apr 29
£nil Oct 20 £14.07 Oct 23 Oct 30
£nil Apr 21 £22.72 Apr 24 Apr 31
Jun 21 Nov 21
Jun 22 Nov 22
Jun 23 Nov 23
Jun 24 Nov 24

– £9.54 Apr 18
84 £14.84 Apr 19
88 £14.24 Apr 20
75 £16.72 Apr 21

124
84
88
–

192,170 38,050 57,427  52,800 119,993 
–
_
27,041
 –  24,916
 – 
24,916
16,772
–
–
16,772
– 23,024
–
23,024
– 20,906
–
1242
–
–
–
–
–
–

– 27,0413 
–
–
–
– 20,906
–
–
–
75
92,049 20,981

27,165 24,916 60,949 

124
84
88
–

£nil May 17 £10.72 May 20 May 27
£nil Mar 18 £11.96 Mar 21 Mar 28
£nil Apr 19 £18.30 Apr 22 Apr 29
£nil Oct 20 £14.07 Oct 23 Oct 30
£nil Apr 21 £22.72 Apr 24 Apr 31
Jun 21 Nov 21
Jun 22 Nov 22
Jun 23 Nov 23
Jun 24 Nov 24

 –  £9.54 Apr 18
84 £14.84 Apr 19
88 £14.24 Apr 20
75 £16.72 Apr 21

e
d
i
s
e
t
i
h
W

r
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n
o
t
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d
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a
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R

i

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S

PSP
PSP
PSP
PSP
PSP
SAYE
SAYE
SAYE
SAYE

PSP
PSP
PSP
PSP
PSP
SAYE
SAYE
SAYE
SAYE

Legacy defined benefit pension scheme (audited)
The following table sets out the change in each Director’s accrued pension in the Company’s 
defined benefit pension scheme during the year and their accrued benefits in the scheme at 
the year end: 

Accrued 
annual 
pension 
entitlement 
as at 
3 January 
2021 £

Accrued 
annual 
pension 
entitlement 
as at 
1 January 
2022£

Increase in 
accrued 
pension 
entitlement 
for the year  
£

Increase in 
accrued 
pension 
entitlement 
for the year 
net of 
inflation of 
1.297%  
£

Transfer 
value of 
increase in 
accrued 
pension 
entitlement 
for the year  
£

Executive Director

Date of birth

Date service 
commenced

Richard Hutton 3/6/68

1/1/98

18,522

18,522

– 

– 

– 

Notes:
1 

The pension entitlement shown is that which would be paid annually on retirement based on service to the end of the year, 
but excluding any statutory increases which would be due after the year end.

2  The inflation rate of 1.297% shown in the table above is that published by the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions in 

accordance with Schedule 3 of the Pensions Schemes Act 1993.

Cash equivalent 
transfer value as 
at 2 January 2021 
£

Cash equivalent 
transfer value as 
at 1 January 2022 
£

Increase in the 
cash equivalent 
transfer value 
since 3 January 
2021  
£

Richard Hutton

392,930 

412,351

– 

Note:
Cash equivalent transfer values have been calculated in accordance with Actuaries Guidance Note GN11 and the increase is 
stated net of contributions made by the Director. The transfer values disclosed above do not represent a sum paid or payable  
to the individual Director. Instead they represent a potential liability of the pension scheme.

Notes: 
1   The market value on the date of exercise was £22.78 and the resultant gain on exercise was £1,305,362.
2   The market value on the date of exercise was £25.72 and the resultant gain on exercise was £2,006.
3   The market value on the date of exercise was £24.74 and the resultant gain on exercise was £668,994.

Options granted under the all-colleague SAYE scheme are not subject to performance 
conditions. All PSP options are subject to performance conditions as detailed elsewhere  
in this report.

 –

 –
 –
 –

The main features of the defined benefit pension scheme are:
 –

 Pension at normal retirement age of 1/60th of member’s final pensionable salary for each complete year and a 
proportionate amount for each additional complete month of service from the date of joining the scheme until  
5 April 2008 when the scheme was closed to future accrual; 
 choice of giving up part of the pension in exchange for a tax-free cash sum subject to a limit of 25% of the total value  
of the member’s benefits under the scheme;
pension payable in the event of ill health;
spouse’s pension on death; and
normal retirement at age 65.

103103

Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSGreggs plc 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

Chief Executive pay compared to performance
The graph below shows a comparison of the total shareholder return for the Company’s shares 
for each of the last ten financial years against the total shareholder return for the companies 
comprised in the FTSE 250 Index (excluding Investment Trusts) and the FTSE 350 Index 
(excluding Investment Trusts).

These indices were chosen for this comparison because they include companies of broadly 
similar size to the Company. 

1000

900

800

700

600

500

400

300

200

100

0

3

1 J

a

n 11

2

9 D

2

8 D

e

c 1

2

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3

0

3 J

a

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5

0

2 J

a

n 1

6

3

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2

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8

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0

2 J

a

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1

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1  J

a

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2

Directors’ shareholding and share interests (audited)
Details of the shareholdings of each Executive Director and their connected persons as  
at 1 January 2022 and their interests in shares are detailed below with the percentage  
holding calculated using the share price at that date. As stated in the Directors’ remuneration 
policy, Executive Directors are required to build a shareholding equivalent in value to 200%  
of basic salary. 

Director

Roger Whiteside
Richard Hutton
Ian Durant
Helena 
Ganczakowski
Sandra Turner
Kate Ferry
Mohamed Elsarky

Beneficially 
owned at 
1 January 2022

Beneficially 
owned at 
2 January 2021

Outstanding PSP 
awards

Outstanding 
option awards

% shareholding 
achieved at 
1 January 2022

88,661 
98,391
11,700

1,100
1,000
562
–

161,846 
94,014
11,700

1,100
1,000
562
–1

119,746
60,702
–

–
–
–

247
247
–

–
–
–

514%
864%
n/a

n/a
n/a
n/a

1   As at date of appointment (21 June 2021)

There have been no changes since 1 January 2022 in the Directors’ interests noted above. Further details of outstanding share 
awards are given on page 103.

FTSE 350 
(excluding investment trusts)

FTSE 250 
(excluding investment trusts)

Greggs

Roisin Currie was appointed to the Board as CEO Designate on 1 February 2022. As at the date of this report, she had a beneficial 
interest in 3,188 shares, options over 247 shares and outstanding PSP awards over 42,510 shares.

Remuneration outcomes for Chief Executive over last ten years
The table below shows the total remuneration figure for the Chief Executive over the same 
ten-year period as the graph above. The total remuneration figure includes the annual bonus, 
pension and PSP/option awards which vested based on performance in those years.

Total remuneration
Bonus (% of max potential)
PSP/options (% max potential)

2012

2013

2014

20151

20161

20171

20181

20191

£635,030
18.0%
78.3%

£1,011,381
20.0%
n/a 

£1,238,248
100.0%
n/a

£2,473,695
93.7%
100%

£2,147,229
86.7%
100%

£1,689,265 
64.3%
100%

£1,737,953
59.2%
80.2%

£2,540,966
97.7%
100%

20201

£649,319
0.0%
0.0%

2021

£1,959,868
99.7%
50%

1 total remuneration adjusted in these years to include expenses omitted in previous reports

104

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcExit payments or payments to past Directors (audited)
No payments for compensation or loss of office were paid to, or receivable by, any former 
Director during the current or prior year.

Relative importance of spend on pay 
The Committee is aware of the importance of pay across the business and the table below 
shows the expenditure and percentage change in the overall spend on all colleague costs 
compared to other key financial indicators.

Roger Whiteside will step down as Chief Executive and from the Board on 17 May 2022.  
Prior to this date, he will receive his salary, pension and benefits as normal. As stated on page 
98, his pension contribution rate for 2022 is set at 15.1% of his base salary. During the balance 
of his notice period (which ends on 5 January 2023), he will receive monthly payments of his 
salary, pension and benefits. During this period he will also be available to support the 
transition process.

As he is retiring, the Remuneration Committee and the Board have agreed to treat Roger as a 
good leaver. He will be entitled to receive an annual bonus for 2022 for the period worked up  
to 17 May, with any bonus payment pro-rated to cover this period only. The bonus outcome will 
depend on the achievement of the specific targets set for the year, and will be determined at 
the normal time in early 2023. 

His outstanding PSP awards will continue to vest at the normal time and be subject to the 
satisfaction of the agreed performance targets. The awards granted in 2020 and 2021 will be 
pro-rated to reflect the proportion of the vesting period completed by the time employment 
ceases at the end of the notice period.

External directorships
Executive Directors may take up one Non-Executive Directorship outside of the Company 
subject to the Board’s approval and provided that such an appointment is not likely to lead  
to a conflict of interest. It is recognised that this can support a Director’s development and 
enhance experience as well as benefit the Company. Executive Directors will be entitled to 
retain the fees of such an appointment. 

Roger Whiteside was appointed as Non-Executive Director of Card Factory plc effective from 
4 December 2017. He retains the fees that he earns. In 2021 this fee was £45,000 (2020: £45,000). 

Richard Hutton was appointed as Non-Executive Director of The Lakes Distillery Company plc 
effective from 1 June 2018. He retains the fees that he earns. In 2021 this fee was £25,000 
(2020: £19,167). 

All colleague costs
Dividends

2021 £m

429.3
15.3

2020 £m

414.8
0.0

% increase/
(decrease)

3.5%
100%

Percentage change in remuneration of all Directors 
The table below sets out the percentage change in remuneration for all Directors  
(Executive and Non-Executive) compared to the wider workforce. 

For this purpose the wider workforce is defined as all full-time head office management 
colleagues as they too are entitled to receive benefits and annual bonus awards. 

Roger Whiteside
Richard Hutton
Ian Durant
Helena Ganczakowski
Sandra Turner
Kate Ferry
Peter McPhillips
Mohamed Elsarky
All colleagues

Salary1
% change

10.9%
21.6%
10.9%
18.3%2
9.2%
10.9%
10.9%3
n/a4
1.9%

2021

Benefits
% change

(11.0%)
(9.0%)
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
(1.2%)

Bonus
% change

100.0%
100.0%
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
100%

Salary1
% change

(8.3%)
(3.3%)
(2.8%)
7.5%2
(5.0%)
(8.3%)3
(4.5%)
n/a
4.1%

2020

Benefits
% change

(39.2% )
(13.6%)
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
3.2%

Bonus 
% change

(100.0%)
(100.0%)
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
(100%)

1   For the period of 1 April 2020 to 31 August 2020 the salaries of the Executive Directors and Non-Executive Directors  

were voluntarily reduced by20%

2   Helena Ganczakowski was appointed Chair of the Remuneration Committee during 2020 and therefore received an 

3  

additional payment for this role for part of the year
In order to provide a meaningful comparison where a director was appointed or retired during the year, the percentage 
change figures have been calculated on a full-year equivalent value

4   Mohamed Elsarky was appointed during 2021 and therefore no annual change is shown

105105

Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSGreggs plcDIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

Chief Executive pay ratio reporting 
Outlined below is the ratio of the Chief Executive’s single figure of total remuneration for  
2021 expressed as a multiple of total remuneration for UK colleagues. 

As required in the regulations, we confirm our belief that the median pay ratio for the year  
is consistent with the Company’s wider pay, reward and progression policies affecting our 
colleagues and the impact that Covid-19 has had on executive remuneration. 

The three ratios referenced below are calculated by reference to the colleagues at the 25th, 
50th and 75th percentile. We additionally disclose the total pay and benefits and base salary  
of the colleagues used to calculate the ratios.

In time, the table below will build to represent ten years of data:

Financial year 

2021
2020
2019

Method

Option B
Option B
Option B

25th percentile 
pay ratio

Median pay ratio

75th percentile 
pay ratio 

99:1
30:1
132:1

98:1
30:1
126:1

68:1
28:1
108:1

The 25th, median and 75th percentile data were calculated as at 21 February 2022.  
Full year pay data for the 2021 financial year has been used to calculate the ratios.

Disclosure of colleague data used to calculate the ratios

25th percentile 

Median 

75th percentile 

Total pay and benefits
Base salary

£19,824
£18,853

£19,966
£18,963

£28,792
£26,577

The following adjustments have been made in order to calculate the figures above:
 – We have used the assumption of a 40-hour week in order to calculate the hourly rate  

for the Chief Executive from the single total remuneration figure; and

 – As the hours our colleague work vary week to week we have converted their hourly rate  
of pay into the equivalent 40-hour week in order that this is directly comparable with the 
hourly rate for the Chief Executive. 

Of the three options set out in the legislation for calculating the Chief Executive pay ratio,  
we are using Option B – which uses Gender Pay Gap (GPG) data – to calculate the pay ratio.  
We believe the steady nature of our workforce ensures that the representative group remains 
the same as those individuals who are identified through the GPG reporting process. The 
individuals represented at the 25th, median and 75th percentile are all colleagues within our 
retail shops. The nature of our workforce and demographics are such that we have over 80% of 
our colleagues working in our front-line shop operations which is characteristic of our sector. 

Our pay reflects the key market in which we operate, although we also support our colleagues 
with additional benefits such as profit share and SAYE participation. As previously outlined in 
both our Chair’s statement and this report, we worked hard to support our colleagues in 2021. 
In recognition of the magnificent job our teams have done in coping under such difficult 
circumstances through 2021 and to recognise their hard work we brought forward the planned 
2022 pay award for our operational teams by five months and for our graded management 
team by two months. This increase in pay for these teams was therefore implemented in 2021 
and was in addition to the pay award the teams received earlier in the year. 

Changes in the basic salary of our Chief Executive have consistently been in line with the base 
award given to all our colleagues over the last five years. Due to the impact of Covid-19 the 
base pay award for our Chief Executive was cancelled in 2020 and he voluntarily took a 20% 
reduction in base salary for the five-month period between April and August 2020. His variable 
pay was also impacted in 2020. 

Although the variable pay of the Chief Executive has increased over the representative period, 
this was due to a strong 2021 financial result. Subsequently all eligible colleagues will benefit 
from a record profit share pay out in their March 2022 pay. 

This report was approved by the Board on 8 March 2022.

Signed on behalf of the Board

Dr Helena Ganczakowski
Chair of the Remuneration Committee
8 March 2022

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc 
STATEMENT OF DIRECTORS’ RESPONSIBILITIES IN RESPECT OF THE ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS

The Directors are responsible for preparing the strategic report and the Directors’ report,  
the Directors’ remuneration report and the accounts in accordance with applicable law  
and regulations.

Company law requires the Directors to prepare Group and Parent Company accounts for each 
financial year. The Directors have elected under company law and are required under the 
Listing Rules of the Financial Conduct Authority to prepare the Group financial statements  
in accordance with UK-adopted International Accounting Standards. The Directors have 
elected under company law to prepare the Company accounts in accordance with UK-adopted 
International Accounting Standards.

Directors’ statement pursuant to the disclosure and transparency rules
Each of the Directors, whose names and functions are listed in the Directors’ report confirm 
that, to the best of each person’s knowledge:
a.   the accounts, prepared in accordance with the applicable set of accounting standards, 

give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit of the Parent 
Company and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a whole; and
b.   the strategic report and the Directors’ report contained in the annual report includes a  
fair review of the development and performance of the business and the position of the 
Company and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a whole, together 
with a description of the principal risks and uncertainties that they face.

The Group and Parent Company financial statements are required by law and UK-adopted 
International Accounting Standards to present fairly the financial position of the Group and  
the Parent Company and the financial performance of the Group; the Companies Act 2006 
provides in relation to such accounts that references in the relevant part of that Act to 
accounts giving a true and fair view are references to their achieving a fair presentation.

The Directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial 
information included on the Greggs plc website.

Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of accounts 
may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

Roger Whiteside 
Chief Executive 
8 March 2022

Richard Hutton
Finance Director

Under company law the Directors must not approve the accounts unless they are satisfied  
that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Group and the Parent Company 
and of the profit or loss of the Group for that period. 

In preparing each of the Group and Parent Company financial statements, the Directors  
are required to:
a.  select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
b.  make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
c  state whether they have been prepared in accordance with UK-adopted International 

Accounting Standards;

d.   prepare the accounts on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume  

that the Group and the Parent Company will continue in business.

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

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021STRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSGreggs plc 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Summary of our audit approach

Key audit matters

Materiality

Group and Parent Company
 – Valuation of lease liabilities
 –
 – Accounting for defined benefit pension arrangements

Impairment of property, plant and equipment and right of use assets

Group
 – Overall materiality: £7.00 million
 – Performance materiality: £4.55 million
Parent Company
 – Overall materiality: £6.90 million 
 – Performance materiality: £4.48 million

Scope

Our audit procedures covered 100% of revenue, total assets and profit  
before tax.

Key audit matters
Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgement, were of most 
significance in our audit of the Group and Parent Company financial statements of the  
current period and include the most significant assessed risks of material misstatement 
(whether or not due to fraud) we identified, including those which had the greatest effect  
on the overall audit strategy, the allocation of resources in the audit and directing the efforts 
of the engagement team. These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the 
Group and Parent Company financial statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion 
thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters. 

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF GREGGS PLC

Opinion
We have audited the financial statements of Greggs plc (the ‘Parent Company’) and its 
subsidiaries (the ‘Group’) for the 52 weeks ended 1 January 2022 which comprise the 
Consolidated Income Statement, the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income, 
Balance Sheets, Statements of Changes in Equity, Statement of Cashflows and notes to  
the financial statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting 
framework that has been applied in the preparation of the Group financial statements is 
applicable law and UK-adopted International Accounting Standards. The financial reporting 
framework that has been applied in the preparation of the Parent Company financial 
statements is applicable law and UK-adopted International Accounting Standards and,  
as regards the Parent Company financial statements, as applied in accordance with the 
provisions of the Companies Act 2006.

In our opinion: 
 – the financial statements give a true and fair view of the state of the Group’s and of the 

Parent Company’s affairs as at 1 January 2022 and of the Group’s profit for the 52 weeks 
then ended;

 – the Group financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with UK-

adopted International Accounting Standards;

 – the Parent Company financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance  
with UK-adopted International Accounting Standards and as applied in accordance  
with the Companies Act 2006; and

 – the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the requirements  

of the Companies Act 2006.

Basis for opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs 
(UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in 
the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report.  
We are independent of the Group and Parent Company in accordance with the ethical 
requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including  
the FRC’s Ethical Standard as applied to listed public interest entities and we have fulfilled our 
other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit 
evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcINDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF GREGGS PLC

Key audit matters continued

Valuation of lease liabilities

Key audit matter description

Refer to page 80 – Audit Committee report

Refer to page 127 and 128 – Basis of preparation (Key estimates and judgements)

Refer to page 146 and 147 – Note 11, Leases

Lease Liability – £283.2 million (2020: £291.7 million)

As the Group occupies and manages approximately 1,700 shops/leases, the application of IFRS 16 is considered to give rise to a significant risk of material 

misstatement. IFRS 16 involves a significant element of judgement and estimation derived from a number of key assumptions. We consider the most 

significant assumptions affecting the valuation of lease liabilities to be:

 –

 –

the lease term assumed in determining the lease liability (particularly in respect of circumstances where the Group remains in occupation using rights 
from the Landlord and Tennant Act 1954); and
the discount rate applied to calculate the lease liability.

Changes to the assumptions included above are likely to have a material impact on the valuation of lease liabilities and given the value of these liabilities in 
comparison to Group materiality, as well as the significant estimates and judgements involved, we consider this area to represent a significant audit risk. 

How the matter was addressed in the audit

Our audit work relating to the valuation of lease liabilities included:

1.  Testing the accuracy and completeness of the underlying information used in the application of IFRS 16. 
2.  Critically assessing the key assumptions utilised by management including the lease term and discount rate. 
3.  Testing that the calculations made were accurate through reperformance.
4.  Assessing the application of and accounting for changes throughout the year including the treatment of new leases, modifications to leases,  

the unwinding of interest and capital payments in respect of lease liabilities.

5.  Reviewing disclosures relating to lease liabilities to ensure they are in accordance with the applicable financial reporting framework.

Key observations

Our audit work in respect of the valuation of lease liabilities concluded that the related balances are not materially misstated, and the disclosures 

management have made are appropriate. 

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSINDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF GREGGS PLC

Impairment of property, plant and equipment and right of use assets

Key audit matter description

Refer to page 79 – Audit Committee report

Refer to page 126 – Basis of preparation (Key estimates and judgements)

Refer to pages 148 to 151 – Note 12, Property, plant an equipment

Net impairment reversal of £3.5 million (2020: £14.0 million impairment charge)

The emergence of Covid-19 during the prior year, the resultant closure of stores during lockdown and the impact on footfall/demand following reopening 

gave rise to risks relating to the impairment of property, plant and equipment and right of use assets. 

As a result, significant impairment charges were recognised in the prior year. While Covid-19 has impacted the early part of 2021 with further national 

lockdowns, a strong recovery in performance across the business in the remainder of 2021 resulted in reversals of impairment. There remains significant 

uncertainty in respect of the ongoing impact of the Covid-19 pandemic with sales in some locations remaining below 2019 (pre-pandemic) levels. 

Property, plant and equipment includes the assets located in shops associated with the direct service of customers and supply chain assets fundamental 

to manufacture and delivery of products to shops and right of use assets principally comprise the Groups’ approximately 1,700 company-managed shops.

In assessing impairment, management’s discounted cash flow analysis incorporates a number of significant judgements, estimates and  

assumptions including:

the use of historic cashflows (particularly where the environment in which the shops operate is fundamentally different as a result of Covid-19)

 –
 – attributable overheads
 – growth rates
 – discount rates
 –
The existence of significant elements of judgement and estimation, combined with the rapidly changing economic environment means that  

the remaining lease term and whether it is appropriate to assume a longer period in performing the impairment assessment. 

How the matter was addressed in the audit

In addressing the risk relating to impairment of property, plant and equipment and right of use assets we:
1.  Assessed the appropriateness of underlying assumptions applied in the impairment calculations in the context of current and future forecast 

we considered the impairment/reversal of impairment of property, plant and equipment and right of use assets to be a significant audit risk. 

performance of the underlying assets in line with IAS 36.

2.  Performed sensitivity analysis to assess the level of headroom in the impairment calculations and to identify the most sensitive assumptions  

on which we should focus our work. 

3.  Reviewed key inputs such as the discount rate and long-term growth rates, utilising valuation specialists in respect of discount rates. 
4.  Discussed future plans with key management outside of the finance function to further assess the assumptions used in the model. 
5.  Assessed the accuracy of historic forecasts to support the assumptions used in the current year model. 
6.  Checked for consistency of the forecast information used and sensitivities applied in respect of the impairment of assets to other areas  

considered as part of the audit which rely on similar information and assumptions, including going concern.

7.  Reviewed the adequacy of disclosures made in respect of key estimates and judgements used in impairment reviews.

Key observations

Our audit work in respect of the impairment of property, plant and equipment and right of use assets concluded that the related balances  
were not materially misstated, and the disclosures management have made are appropriate.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcINDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF GREGGS PLC

Accounting for defined benefit pension arrangements

Key audit matter description

Refer to page 80 – Audit Committee report

Refer to page 128 – Basis of preparation (Key estimates and judgements)

Refer to pages 156 to 160 – Note 21, Employee benefits

Defined Benefit Pension Liability – £2.4 million net liability (2020: £11.9 million net liability)

The liability recognised in respect of defined benefit pension scheme obligations is based on a valuation undertaken by an actuary  

and key estimates and assumptions include:

 – discount rates
 –
inflation rates
 – mortality rates
 –
 – commutation
 – guaranteed minimum pension

future pension increases

How the matter was addressed in the audit

Key observations

These assumptions are subject to significant management judgement on concluding if the actuarial assumptions are appropriate and are also  
sensitive to small changes. 

In addition, judgement is required in determining whether under IAS 19 and IFRIC 14 a net pension surplus should be recognised and whether a liability 

should be recognised for any minimum funding requirements. Specifically judgements include assessing whether the Group have an unconditional  

right to refund and estimating the recoverable amount of any potential refunds. The Group committed during the year to make additional payments  

of £2.5 million per year, of which £12.5 million were outstanding at 1 January 2022. 

Our audit work relating to the valuation of lease liabilities included:
1.  Utilising an actuarial expert to review the adequacy of the key actuarial assumptions.
2.  Reviewing management’s assessment of IFRIC 14 including legal advice obtained. This included reviewing the Scheme Rules and consulting  

with our actuarial expert in considering if management’s assessment was appropriate. 

3.  Considered the adequacy of the Group’s disclosures in respect of the sensitivity of the defined benefit pension scheme to the key actuarial  

assumptions and the judgements involved in respect of the application of IFRIC 14. 

Our audit work in respect of the defined benefit pension obligation concluded that the related balances were not materially misstated and the  
disclosures management have made are appropriate. 

Our application of materiality
When establishing our overall audit strategy, we set certain thresholds which help us to determine the nature, timing and extent of our audit procedures. When evaluating whether the effects  
of misstatements, both individually and on the financial statements as a whole, could reasonably influence the economic decisions of the users we take into account the qualitative nature and  
the size of the misstatements. Based on our professional judgement, we determined materiality as follows:

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSINDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF GREGGS PLC

Overall materiality

Group

£7.00 million

Basis for determining overall materiality

4.8% of profit before tax

Parent Company

£6.90 million

4.7% of profit before tax

Rationale for benchmark applied

Profit before tax is the primary measure used by the shareholders in assessing the performance of the Group and is a generally accepted auditing benchmark. 

Performance materiality

Basis for determining  
performance materiality

£4.55 million

65% of overall materiality

£4.48 million

65% of overall materiality

Reporting of misstatements to  
the Audit Committee

Misstatements in excess of £350,000 and misstatements below that  
threshold that, in our view, warranted reporting on qualitative grounds. 

Misstatements in excess of £345,000 and misstatements below that  
threshold that, in our view, warranted reporting on qualitative grounds.

The materiality for the audit was revisited during the audit to reflect the changes to expected 
outturn for the period. 

An overview of the scope of our audit
The Group consists of the Parent Company and nine subsidiaries all of which are dormant or 
non-trading. The Group audit team audited the only significant component being the Parent 
Company. In doing so the coverage achieved by our audit procedures was 100% of Group 
revenue, total assets and profit before tax. 

Conclusions relating to going concern
In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the Directors’ use of the going 
concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.  
Our evaluation of the Directors’ assessment of the Group’s and Parent Company’s ability to 
continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting included:
1.  Assessing the forward-looking assumptions used by management in their assessment  

of going concern.

2.  Corroborating key management assumptions to supporting evidence including financing 

arrangements in place. 

3.  Challenging management’s assumptions including performing downside sensitivities in 

respect of key assumptions. 

4.  Considering the adequacy of management’s scenario analysis and contingency plans.
5.  Checking the integrity and mechanism of the forecast model provided by management.
6.  Obtaining evidence of Board approval of the budgets and forecasts.
7.  Assessing historical forecast accuracy.
8.  Re-calculating management’s covenant calculations to assess the risk of forecast 

non-compliance.

9.  Evaluating the adequacy of going concern related disclosures in the financial statements.

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties 
relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt  
on the Group’s or the Parent Company’s ability to continue as a going concern for the period  
of assessment to December 2023.

In relation to the entity reporting on how they have applied the UK Corporate Governance 
Code, we have nothing material to add or draw attention to in relation to the Directors’ 
statement in the financial statements about whether the Directors considered it appropriate 
to adopt the going concern basis of accounting.

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the Directors with respect to going concern  
are described in the relevant sections of this report.

Other information
The other information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the 
financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon. The Directors are responsible for the 
other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements 
does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in 
our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. 

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

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcINDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF GREGGS PLC

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Opinions 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.

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit:
 – the information given in the strategic report and the Directors’ report for the financial  
year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial 
statements; and

 – Directors’ statement with regards the appropriateness of adopting the going concern  
basis of accounting and any material uncertainties identified set out on page 125;
 – Directors’ explanation as to their assessment of the Group’s prospects, the period  
this assessment covers and why the period is appropriate set out on page 125;
 – Director’s statement on whether it has a reasonable expectation that the Group  
will be able to continue in operation and meets its liabilities set out on page 125;
 – Directors’ statement on fair, balanced and understandable set out on page 76;
 – Board’s confirmation that it has carried out a robust assessment of the emerging and 

principal risks set out on page 60;

 – Section of the annual report that describes the review of effectiveness of risk management 

 – the strategic report and the Directors’ report have been prepared in accordance with 

and internal control systems set out on page 82; and

applicable legal requirements.

 – Section describing the work of the Audit Committee set out on pages 77 to 83.

Matters on which we are required to report  
by exception
In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the Group and the Parent Company  
and their environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material 
misstatements in the strategic report or the Directors’ report.

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

Corporate governance statement 
We have reviewed the Directors’ statement in relation to going concern, longer-term viability 
and that part of the Corporate Governance Statement relating to the Parent Company’s 
compliance with the provisions of the UK Corporate Governance Code specified for our  
review by the Listing Rules.

Based on the work undertaken as part of our audit, we have concluded that each of the 
following elements of the corporate governance statement is materially consistent with  
the financial statements and our knowledge obtained during the audit:

Responsibilities of Directors
As explained more fully in the Directors’ responsibilities statement set out on page 107,  
the Directors are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being 
satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the Directors 
determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free  
from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

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

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

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSINDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF GREGGS PLC

The extent to which the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities, 
including fraud
Irregularities are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. The objectives of 
our audit are to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding compliance with laws 
and regulations that have a direct effect on the determination of material amounts and 
disclosures in the financial statements, to perform audit procedures to help identify instances 
of non-compliance with other laws and regulations that may have a material effect on the 
financial statements, and to respond appropriately to identified or suspected non-compliance 
with laws and regulations identified during the audit. 

In relation to fraud, the objectives of our audit are to identify and assess the risk of material 
misstatement of the financial statements due to fraud, to obtain sufficient appropriate  
audit evidence regarding the assessed risks of material misstatement due to fraud through 
designing and implementing appropriate responses and to respond appropriately to fraud  
or suspected fraud identified during the audit. 

However, it is the primary responsibility of management, with the oversight of those charged 
with governance, to ensure that the entity’s operations are conducted in accordance with  
the provisions of laws and regulations and for the prevention and detection of fraud.

In identifying and assessing risks of material misstatement in respect of irregularities, 
including fraud, the Group audit engagement team: 
 – obtained an understanding of the nature of the industry and sector, including the legal  
and regulatory framework that the Group and Parent Company operates in and how the 
Group and Parent Company are complying with the legal and regulatory framework;

 – inquired of management, and those charged with governance, about their own 

identification and assessment of the risks of irregularities, including any known actual, 
suspected or alleged instances of fraud; and

 – discussed matters about non-compliance with laws and regulations and how fraud might 

occur including assessment of how and where the financial statements may be susceptible 
to fraud for regulated entities, as defined in ISA 250B: having obtained an understanding of 
the effectiveness of the control environment.

The most significant laws and regulations were determined as follows:

Legislation/regulation

IFRS/UK adopted  
IAS and Companies Act 2006

Tax compliance regulations

Additional audit procedures performed by the Group audit engagement team included: 

 – Review of the financial statement disclosures and testing to supporting documentation
 – Completion of disclosure checklists to identify areas of non-compliance

Inspection and review of tax computations prepared by management
Input from a tax specialist was obtained regarding significant and complex matters

 –
 –
 – Consideration of whether any matter identified during the audit required reporting to an appropriate authority outside the entity

Distributable profits legislation

 – Assessment of extent of compliance as part of our audit work relating to reserves

Pension legislation

 – Assessment of extent of compliance as part of our audit work relating to defined benefit pensions

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme

 – Obtaining an understanding of the process by which claims were calculated and submitted 
 –
 –

Input from a tax specialist was obtained regarding significant and complex matters
Inspection of correspondence with HMRC

Food Safety/Health and Safety/Employment/
General Data Protection Regulation

 –
 –

Inquiry of management and Directors
Inspection of correspondence with legal advisors and regulators (where applicable)

The areas that we identified as being susceptible to material misstatement due to fraud were:

Risk

Audit procedures performed by the audit engagement team: 

Revenue recognition – cut off

 – Testing a sample of transactions accounted pre and post year end for each significant revenue stream ensuring that revenue is recognised in  

Management override of controls 

114

the correct accounting period in line with the Group’s accounting policy

 – Testing the appropriateness of journal entries and other adjustments
 – Assessing whether the judgements made in making accounting estimates are indicative of a potential bias
 – Evaluating the business rationale of any significant transactions that are unusual or outside the normal course of business

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcINDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF GREGGS PLC

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is  
located on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at: http://www.frc.org.uk/
auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor’s report.

Other matters which we are required to address
Following the recommendation of the Audit Committee, we were appointed by the 
shareholders on 14 May 2021 to audit the financial statements for the 52-week period  
ended 1 January 2022 and subsequent financial periods.

The period of total uninterrupted consecutive appointments is one year, covering the  
52-week period ended 1 January 2022.

The non-audit services prohibited by the FRC’s Ethical Standard were not provided  
to the Group or the Parent Company and we remain independent of the Group and the  
Parent Company in conducting our audit. 

Our audit opinion is consistent with the additional report to the Audit Committee  
in accordance with ISAs (UK).

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

Rachel Fleming (Senior Statutory Auditor)
For and on behalf of RSM UK Audit LLP, Statutory Auditor 
Chartered Accountants
1 St. James’ Gate
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE1 4AD

8 March 2022

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSCONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 1 JANUARY 2022 (2020: 53 WEEKS ENDED 2 JANUARY 2021)

Revenue
Cost of sales
Cost of sales excluding exceptional items
Exceptional items

Gross profit
Distribution and selling costs
Administrative expenses

Operating profit/(loss) 
Finance expense (net)

Profit/(loss) before tax
Income tax

Profit/(loss) for the financial year attributable to equity holders of the Parent

Basic earnings/(loss) per share 

Diluted earnings/(loss) per share

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 1 JANUARY 2022 (2020: 53 WEEKS ENDED 2 JANUARY 2021)

Profit/(loss) for the financial year
Other comprehensive income
Items that will not be recycled to profit and loss:
Remeasurements on defined benefit pension plans
Tax on remeasurements on defined benefit pension plans

Other comprehensive income for the financial year, net of income tax

Total comprehensive income for the financial year

Note

1

4

6
3-6
8

9

9

Note

21
8

2021
£m

1,229.7 
(447.7)
(447.7)
 – 
782.0 
(567.6)
(61.2)
153.2 
(7.6)
145.6 
(28.1)

117.5 

115.7p

114.3p

2021 
£m 

117.5 

7.1
(1.7)
5.4

122.9

2020
£m 

811.3 
(300.4)
(299.6)
(0.8)
510.9 
(465.8)
(52.1)
(7.0)
(6.7)
(13.7)
0.7 

(13.0)

(12.9p)

(12.9p)

2020
£m 

(13.0)

(11.2)
2.1 
(9.1)

(22.1)

116

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcBALANCE SHEETS
AT 1 JANUARY 2022 (2020: 2 JANUARY 2021)

ASSETS
Non-current assets
Intangible assets
Property, plant and equipment
Right-of-use assets
Investments

Current assets
Inventories
Trade and other receivables
Assets held for resale
Current tax
Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets

LIABILITIES
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables
Lease liabilities
Provisions

Non-current liabilities
Other payables
Defined benefit pension liability
Lease liabilities
Deferred tax liability
Long-term provisions

Total liabilities

Net assets

EQUITY
Capital and reserves
Issued capital
Share premium account
Capital redemption reserve
Retained earnings

Total equity attributable to equity holders of the Parent

Note

Group

2021  
£m

10
12
11
13

15
16

19
17

18
11
22

20
21
11
14
22

23
23
23

14.9 
343.8 
263.6 
 – 
622.3 

27.9 
37.6 
1.6 
0.4 
198.6 
266.1 

888.4 

(153.4)
(49.3)
(4.2)
(206.9)

(3.2)
(2.4) 
(233.9)
(10.0)
(2.8)
(252.3)
(459.2)

429.2 

2.0 
20.0 
0.4 
406.8 

429.2

2020 
£m

15.6 
345.3 
270.1 
 – 
631.0 

22.5 
39.4 
 – 
 – 
36.8 
98.7 

729.7 

(91.1)
(48.6)
(4.4)
(144.1)

(3.7)
(11.9)
(243.1)
(2.3)
(3.0)
(264.0)
(408.1)

321.6 

2.0 
15.7 
0.4 
303.5 

321.6 

Parent Company

2021 
£m

2020 
£m

14.9 
344.4 
263.6 
5.0 
627.9 

27.9 
37.6 
1.6 
0.4 
198.6 
266.1 

894.0 

(161.1)
(49.3)
(4.2)
(214.6)

(3.2)
(2.4) 
(233.9)
(9.4)
(2.8)
(251.7)
(466.3)

427.7 

2.0 
20.0 
0.4 
405.3 

427.7 

15.6 
345.9 
270.1 
5.0 
636.6 

22.5 
39.4 
 – 
 – 
36.8 
98.7 

735.3 

(98.8)
(48.6)
(4.4)
(151.8)

(3.7)
(11.9)
(243.1)
(1.8)
(3.0)
(263.5)
(415.3)

320.0 

2.0 
15.7 
0.4 
301.9 

320.0 

Of the Group profit for the year  
£117.6 million (2020: loss of  
£12.9 million)is dealt with in  
the books of the Parent Company.

The accounts on pages 116 to 167 were 
approved by the Board of Directors on 
8 March 2022 and were signed on its 
behalf by:

Roger Whiteside
Richard Hutton 
Company Registered Number 502851

117117

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSSTATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 1 JANUARY 2022 (2020: 53 WEEKS ENDED 2 JANUARY 2021)

Group
53 weeks ended 2 January 2021

Attributable to equity holders of the Company

Issued 
capital 
£m

2.0 

Share 
premium 
£m

13.5 

Capital 
redemption 
reserve 
£m

0.4

Retained 
earnings 
£m

325.2 

 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

2.0 

 – 
 – 
 – 

2.2 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
2.2 

15.7 

 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

(13.0)
(9.1)
(22.1)

 – 
1.5 
(0.5)
0.9 
 – 
(1.5)
0.4 

Total
£m

341.1 

(13.0)
(9.1)
(22.1)

2.2 
1.5 
(0.5)
0.9 
 – 
(1.5)
2.6 

0.4 

303.5 

321.6 

Balance at 29 December 2019 

Total comprehensive income for the year
Loss for the financial year
Other comprehensive income
Total comprehensive income for the year

Transactions with owners, recorded directly in equity
Issue of ordinary shares
Sale of own shares
Purchase of own shares
Share-based payment transactions
Dividends to equity holders
Tax items taken directly to reserves
Total transactions with owners

Balance at 2 January 2021

Note

21
23
8

118

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY CONTINUED
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 1 JANUARY 2022 (2020: 53 WEEKS ENDED 2 JANUARY 2021)

Group
52 weeks ended 1 January 2022

Balance at 3 January 2021 

Total comprehensive income for the year
Profit for the financial year
Other comprehensive income
Total comprehensive income for the year

Transactions with owners, recorded directly in equity
Issue of ordinary shares
Sale of own shares
Purchase of own shares
Share-based payment transactions
Dividends to equity holders
Tax items taken directly to reserves
Total transactions with owners

Balance at 1 January 2022

Note

21
23
8

Attributable to equity holders of the Company

Issued 
capital 
£m

2.0 

Share 
premium 
£m

15.7 

Capital 
redemption 
reserve 
£m

0.4 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 

4.3 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
4.3 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

Retained 
earnings 
£m

303.5 

117.5 
5.4 
122.9 

– 
0.3 
(10.0)
2.2
(15.3)
3.2 
(19.6)

Total
£m

321.6 

117.5 
5.4
122.9 

4.3 
0.3 
(10.0)
2.2 
(15.3)
3.2 
(15.3)

2.0 

20.0 

0.4 

406.8 

429.2 

119119

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSSTATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY CONTINUED
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 1 JANUARY 2022 (2020: 53 WEEKS ENDED 2 JANUARY 2021)

Parent Company
53 weeks ended 2 January 2021

Attributable to equity holders of the Company

Issued 
capital 
£m

2.0 

Share 
premium 
£m

13.5 

Capital 
redemption 
reserve 
£m

0.4

 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

2.0 

 – 
 – 
 – 

2.2 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
2.2 

15.7 

Retained 
earnings 
£m

323.5

(12.9)
(9.1)
(22.0)

 – 
1.5 
(0.5)
0.9 
 – 
(1.5)
0.4 

Total
£m

339.4

(12.9)
(9.1)
(22.0)

2.2 
1.5 
(0.5)
0.9 
 – 
(1.5)
2.6 

 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

0.4 

301.9 

320.0 

Balance at 29 December 2019

Total comprehensive income for the year
Loss for the financial year
Other comprehensive income
Total comprehensive income for the year

Transactions with owners, recorded directly in equity
Issue of ordinary shares
Sale of own shares
Purchase of own shares
Share-based payment transactions
Dividends to equity holders
Tax items taken directly to reserves
Total transactions with owners

Balance at 2 January 2021

Note

7

21
23
8

120

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY CONTINUED
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 1 JANUARY 2022 (2020: 53 WEEKS ENDED 2 JANUARY 2021)

Parent Company
52 weeks ended 1 January 2022

Balance at 3 January 2021 

Total comprehensive income for the year
Profit for the financial year
Other comprehensive income
Total comprehensive income for the year

Transactions with owners, recorded directly in equity
Issue of ordinary shares
Sale of own shares
Purchase of own shares
Share-based payment transactions
Dividends to equity holders
Tax items taken directly to reserves
Total transactions with owners

Balance at 1 January 2022

Note

7

21
23
8

Attributable to equity holders of the Company

Issued 
capital 
£m

2.0 

Share 
premium 
£m

15.7 

Capital 
redemption 
reserve  
£m

0.4 

 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 

4.3 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
4.3 

 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

Retained 
earnings 
£m

301.9 

117.6 
5.4
123.0 

 – 
0.3 
(10.0)
2.2
(15.3)
3.2 
(19.6)

2.0 

20.0 

0.4 

405.3 

Total
£m

320.0 

117.6 
5.4
123.0 

4.3 
0.3 
(10.0)
2.2 
(15.3)
3.2 
(15.3)

427.7 

121121

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSSTATEMENTS OF CASHFLOWS
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 1 JANUARY 2022 (2020: 53 WEEKS ENDED 2 JANUARY 2021)

Group

Parent Company

2020 
Restated 
(see page 125)
£m

61.6 
(10.7)
(6.5)
(0.8)
43.6 

(58.8)
(2.8)
1.8 
0.6 
(59.2)

2.2 
1.5 
(0.5)
150.0 
 – 
(150.0)
(42.1)
(38.9)
(54.5)
91.3 

36.8 

2021 
£m

312.1 
(19.2)
(6.3)
(1.1)
285.5 

(50.5)
(3.8)
0.3 
 – 
(54.0)

4.3 
0.3 
(10.0)
 – 
(15.3)
 – 
(49.0)
(69.7)
161.8
36.8 

198.6 

2020 
Restated
(see page 125)
£m

61.6 
(10.7)
(6.5)
(0.8)
43.6 

(58.8)
(2.8)
1.8 
0.6 
(59.2)

2.2 
1.5 
(0.5)
150.0 
 – 
(150.0)
(42.1)
(38.9)
(54.5)
91.3 

36.8 

2021 
£m

312.1 
(19.2)
(6.3)
(1.1)
285.5 

(50.5)
(3.8)
0.3 
 – 
(54.0)

4.3 
0.3 
(10.0)
 – 
(15.3)
 – 
(49.0)
(69.7)
161.8
36.8 

198.6 

Note

6
6

6

17

17

Operating activities
Cash generated from operations (see page 123)
Income tax paid
Interest paid on lease liabilities
Interest paid on borrowings and other related charges

Net cash inflow from operating activities
Investing activities
Acquisition of property, plant and equipment
Acquisition of intangible assets
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment
Interest received

Net cash outflow from investing activities
Financing activities
Proceeds from issue of share capital
Sale of own shares
Purchase of own shares
Proceeds from loans and borrowings
Dividends paid
Repayment of loans and borrowings
Repayment of principal on lease liabilities

Net cash outflow from financing activities
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at the start of the year

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year

122

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTATEMENTS OF CASHFLOWS CONTINUED
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 1 JANUARY 2022 (2020: 53 WEEKS ENDED 2 JANUARY 2021)

Cash flow statement – cash generated from operations

Profit/(loss) for the financial year
Amortisation
Depreciation – property, plant and equipment
Depreciation – right-of-use assets
Net impairment (reversal)/charge – property, plant and equipment
Net impairment (reversal)/charge – right-of-use assets
Loss on sale of property, plant and equipment
Release of Government grants
Share-based payment expenses
Finance expense 
Income tax expense
(Increase)/decrease in inventories
Decrease/(increase) in receivables
Increase/(decrease) in payables
Decrease in provisions
Decrease in pension liability

Cash from operating activities

Note

10
12
11
12

21
6
8

21

Group

Parent Company

2021 
£m

117.5 
4.5 
54.2 
48.7 
(1.9)
(1.6)
0.9
(0.5)
2.2 
7.6 
28.1 
(5.4)
1.8 
58.9 
(0.4)
(2.5)

312.1

2020 
£m

(13.0)
4.0 
56.9 
51.9 
5.2 
8.8 
0.5 
(0.5)
0.9 
6.7 
(0.7) 
1.4 
(12.3)
(48.2)
 – 
 – 

61.6 

2021 
£m

117.6 
4.5 
54.2 
48.7 
(1.9)
(1.6)
0.9
(0.5)
2.2 
7.6 
28.0 
(5.4)
1.8
58.9
(0.4)
(2.5)

312.1

2020 
£m

(12.9)
4.0 
56.9 
51.9 
5.2 
8.8 
0.5 
(0.5)
0.9 
6.7 
(0.8) 
1.4 
(12.3)
(48.2)
 – 
 – 

61.6 

123123

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED ACCOUNTS

Significant accounting policies
Greggs plc (the ‘Company’) is a company incorporated and domiciled in the UK. The Group accounts consolidate those of the Company and its 
subsidiaries (together referred to as the ‘Group’). The results of the associate are not consolidated on the grounds of materiality. The Parent  
Company accounts present information about the Company as a separate entity and not about its Group.

The accounts were authorised for issue by the Directors on 8 March 2022.

(a) Statement of compliance
On 31 December 2020, IFRS as adopted by the European Union at that date was brought into UK law and became UK-adopted International  
Accounting Standards, with future changes being subject to endorsement by the UK Endorsement Board. The Group and Parent Company 
transitioned to UK-adopted International Accounting Standards on 1 January 2021. This change constitutes a change in accounting framework. 
However, there is no impact on recognition, measurement or disclosure in the period reported as a result of the change in framework.

The Group and Parent Company accounts have been prepared in accordance with UK-adopted International Accounting Standards and  
with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 as applicable to companies reporting under those standards.

(b) Basis of preparation
The accounts are presented in pounds sterling, rounded to the nearest £0.1 million, and are prepared on the historical cost basis except the defined 
benefit pension asset/liability, which is recognised as the fair value of the plan assets less the present value of the defined benefit obligation.

The Group’s business activities, together with the factors likely to affect its future development, performance and position are set out in the Directors’ 
report and strategic report on pages 1 to 107. The financial position of the Group, its cash flows and liquidity position are described in the Financial 
Review on page 55 to 58. In addition, Note 2 to the accounts includes: the Group’s objectives, policies and processes for managing its capital; its 
financial risk management objectives; details of its financial instruments and hedging activities; and its exposures to credit risk and liquidity risk.

The accounting policies set out below have been applied consistently throughout the Group and to all years presented in these consolidated  
accounts except if mentioned otherwise. From 3 January 2021 the following amendments were adopted by the Group:

 – Amendments to IFRS 9, IAS 39, IFRS 7 and IFRS 16: Interest Rate Benchmark Reform – Phase 2.

Their adoption did not have a material effect on the accounts. 

124

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSignificant accounting policies continued
(b) Basis of preparation continued
Restatement of comparatives
Due to a drafting error in the preparation of the accounts for the 53 weeks ended 2 January 2021 the figures in the cash flow statement for the 
proceeds from and the repayment of loans and borrowings were incorrectly stated as £100.0 million. These figures should have been stated  
as £150.0 million. The comparative financial information within financing activities for the 53 weeks ended 2 January 2021 has been restated.  
The restatement does not impact upon the overall cash outflow from financing activities or on the net decrease in cash and cash equivalents  
for the 53 weeks ended 2 January 2021 as previously presented. 

Going concern
The Directors have considered the adoption of the going concern basis of preparation for these accounts in the context of recent trading 
performance, the impact of the latest variant of Covid-19 and the trading outlook of the Group. At the end of the reporting period the Group had 
available liquidity totalling £268.6 million, comprised of cash and cash equivalents of £198.6 million plus an undrawn revolving credit facility (RCF)
(which is committed to December 2024) of £70.0 million. The RCF includes financial covenants the Group must comply with related to maximum 
leverage and a minimum fixed charge cover. How these covenants are measured and the required ratios are set out in Note 2. 

The RCF was originally put in place in December 2020 to provide liquidity, specifically in the event of further lockdowns due to the Covid-19 pandemic. 
Performance has recovered through 2021 and the Group has not needed to utilise the RCF at any point.

The Directors have reviewed cash flow forecasts prepared for the period up to December 2023 as well as covenant compliance for that period. In 
reviewing the cash flow forecasts the Directors considered the current trading performance of the Group and the likely capital expenditure and 
working capital requirements of its growth plans. The main uncertainty for the review period is the possibility of further lockdowns that would limit  
or prevent the business from trading. Should such scenarios arise the Directors consider that the RCF provides significant additional liquidity based 
on their experience through the pandemic. The Directors consider the likelihood of a complete closure scenario to be remote given the widespread 
vaccination programme and the demonstrated ability of the sector to operate successfully in a Covid-secure environment.

After reviewing these cash flow forecasts and considering the continued uncertainties and mitigating actions that can be taken, the Directors believe 
that it is appropriate to prepare the accounts on a going concern basis. After making enquiries, the Directors are confident that the Company and the 
Group will have sufficient funds to continue to meet their liabilities as they fall due for at least 12 months from the date of approval of the accounts. 
Accordingly, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the annual report and accounts.

125125

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

Significant accounting policies continued
(b) Basis of preparation continued
Key estimates and judgements 
The preparation of financial information in conformity with adopted IFRSs requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions 
that affect the application of policies and reported amounts of assets and liabilities, income and expenses. The estimates and underlying 
assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the year in which the estimate is revised  
if the revision affects only that year, or in the year of revision and future years if the revision affects both current and future years.

Impairment
Property, plant and equipment and right-of-use assets are reviewed for impairment if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying 
value may not be recoverable. For example, shop fittings and right-of-use assets may be impaired if sales in that shop fall. When a review for 
impairment is conducted the recoverable amount is estimated based on either value-in-use calculations or fair value less costs of disposal.  
Value-in-use calculations are based on management’s estimates of future cash flows generated by the assets and an appropriate discount rate. 
Consideration is also given to whether the impairment assessments made in prior years remain appropriate based on the latest expectations in 
respect of recoverable amount. Where it is concluded that the impairment has reduced, a reversal of the impairment is recorded.

The Covid-19 crisis meant that during 2020 all shops had periods of no, or reduced, sales and was deemed to be an impairment trigger and as a result 
assets in company-managed shops were tested for impairment. Sales have recovered during 2021 but in some locations the level of sales is still below 
the 2019 level. As recovery from the pandemic continues, there remains inherent uncertainty in the rate of sales growth along with cost pressures 
from increasing inflation.

As a result, an impairment review was carried out for the company-managed shop estate using the following assumptions:

 – Shops have been categorised into different catchment areas (e.g., city centres, transport hubs) and assumptions made on the rate of like-for-like 

sales recovery for each catchment;

 – Like-for-like sales have been assumed to grow from December 2021 levels to a level equivalent to the pre-Covid-19 levels (on average across the 

estate) by the end of 2022 (excluding the incremental impact of delivery). Like-for-like sales for the period 2023 to 2026 are then assumed to grow 
by an average of 3% per annum;

 – Where shops are currently used to fulfil orders for delivery, or are planned to offer delivery in 2022, the net cash flows for fulfilling these orders  

are included within the estimated cash flows for the shop;

 – Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortisation and rent (EBITDAR) is used as a proxy for net cash flow excluding rental payments;
 – The discount rate is based on the Group’s weighted average cost of capital (WACC) with an uplift for risk in the current environment and at  

1 January 2022 was 6.9% (2 January 2021: 6.7%); and

 – Consideration of the appropriate period over which to forecast cash flows, including reference to the lease term. Where considered appropriate 

cashflows have been included for periods beyond the lease probable end date (to a maximum of five years in accordance with IAS 36).

126

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSignificant accounting policies continued
(b) Basis of preparation continued
Key estimates and judgements continued
On the basis of these calculations and given the improved outlook, a net impairment release of £2.2 million has been recognised during the current 
year (of which £0.6 million relates to fixtures and fittings and £1.6 million relates to right-of-use assets) resulting in an impairment provision of  
£4.9 million being retained at 1 January 2022 in respect of 59 shops (of which £1.6 million relates to fixtures and fittings and £3.3 million relates to 
right-of-use assets). 

Given the uncertainties of the current trading environment, the sensitivities of these assumptions on the impairment calculation have been tested:

 – A 1% increase in the discount rate would result in an increased impairment of £0.3 million, with the same number of shops impaired.  

A 1% decrease in the discount rate would result in a reduced impairment of £0.4 million, with one fewer shop impaired. 

 – A 5% increase in the sales recovery assumption (per annum) would result in a reduced impairment of £1.6 million with 15 fewer shops impaired.  
A 5% decrease in the sales recovery assumption would result in an increased provision of £2.1 million with an additional 11 shops impaired. 

In addition to the impairment movements resulting from the review of company-managed shops noted above a further £1.3 million has been released 
to the income statement in 2021 in respect of land and bakery plant and machinery which is no longer considered to be impaired.

Determining the rate used to discount lease payments
At the commencement date of property leases the lease liability is calculated by discounting the lease payments. The discount rate used should be 
the interest rate implicit in the lease. However, if that rate cannot be readily determined, which is generally the case for property leases, the lessee’s 
incremental borrowing rate is used, being the rate that the individual lessee would have to pay to borrow the funds necessary to obtain an asset of 
similar value to the right-of-use asset in a similar economic environment with similar terms, security and conditions. As the Group had no suitable 
external borrowings from which to determine that rate, judgement is required to determine the incremental borrowing rate to be used. At the start of 
each month a risk-free rate is obtained, linked to the length of the lease and an adjustment is then made to reflect credit risk. During the year discount 
rates in the range 1.5% to 2.5% were used. For the lease liabilities at 1 January 2022 a 0.1% change in the discount rate used for each lease would have 
adjusted the total liabilities by £1.2 million.

Determining the lease term of property leases
At the commencement date of property leases the Group normally determines the lease term to be the full term of the lease, assuming that any option 
to break or extend the lease is unlikely to be exercised and it is not reasonably certain that the Group will continue in occupation for any period beyond 
the lease term. Leases are regularly reviewed and will be revalued if it becomes reasonably certain that a break clause or option to extend the lease 
will be exercised.

127127

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

Significant accounting policies continued
(b) Basis of preparation continued
Key estimates and judgements continued
The leases typically run for a period of ten or 15 years. In England and Wales, the majority of the Group’s property leases are protected by  
the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 (‘LTA’) which affords protection to the lessee at the end of an existing lease term. 

Judgement is required in respect of those property leases where the current lease term had expired but the Group had not yet renewed the lease. 
Where the Group believes renewal to be reasonably certain and the lease is protected by the LTA it will be treated as having been renewed at the date  
of termination of the previous lease term and on the same terms as the previous lease. Where renewal is not considered to be reasonably certain the 
leases are included with a lease term which reflects the anticipated notice period under relevant legislation. The lease will be revalued when it is 
renewed to take account of the new terms. As at 1 January 2022 the financial effect of applying this judgement was an increase in recognised lease 
liabilities of £41.7 million (2020: £31.9 million).

In addition, where a shop is refurbished within two years of the contractual lease end date and the Group therefore expects to renew the lease,  
the lease liability is revised to reflect an additional lease term. The impact of this judgement as at 1 January 2022 is an additional lease liability  
of £7.7 million. 

Post-retirement benefits
The determination of the defined benefit obligation of the Group’s defined benefit pension scheme depends on the selection of certain assumptions with 
significant estimation uncertainty including the discount rate, inflation rate, mortality rates and commutation. Differences arising from actual experience 
or future changes in assumptions will be reflected in future years. The key assumptions, sensitivities and carrying amounts for 2021 are given in Note 21.

(c) Basis of consolidation
The consolidated accounts include the results of Greggs plc and its subsidiary undertakings for the 52 weeks ended 1 January 2022. The comparative 
period is the 53 weeks ended 2 January 2021.

(i)  Subsidiaries
Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the Company. The Company controls an entity when it is exposed to, or has rights to, variable returns from its 
involvement with the entity and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the entity. The accounts of subsidiaries are included in 
the consolidated accounts from the date on which control commences until the date on which control ceases. 

(ii) Associates
Associates are those entities in which the Group has significant influence, but not control, over the financial and operating policies. Significant influence  
is presumed to exist when the Group holds 20-50% of the voting power of another entity unless it can be clearly demonstrated that this is not the case.  
At the year end the Group has one associate which has not been consolidated on the grounds of materiality (see Note 13).

(iii) Transactions eliminated on consolidation
Intragroup balances, and any unrealised gains and losses or income and expenses arising from intragroup transactions, are eliminated in preparing 
the consolidated accounts.

128

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSignificant accounting policies continued
(d) Exceptional items
Exceptional items are defined as items of income and expenditure which are material and unusual in nature and which are considered to be of  
such significance that they require separate disclosure on the face of the income statement. Any future movements on items previously classified  
as exceptional will also be classified as exceptional.

(e) Foreign currency
Transactions in foreign currencies are translated at the foreign exchange rate ruling at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities 
denominated in foreign currencies at the balance sheet date are translated at the foreign exchange rate ruling at that date. Non-monetary assets  
and liabilities that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction. 
Foreign exchange differences arising on translation are recognised in the income statement.

(f) Intangible assets
The Group’s only intangible assets relate to software and the costs of its implementation which are measured at cost less accumulated amortisation 
and accumulated impairment losses. Subsequent expenditure is capitalised only when it increases the future economic benefits embodied in the 
specific asset to which it relates. All other expenditure is recognised in the income statement as incurred.

Amortisation is recognised in the income statement on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of intangible assets from the date that  
they are available for use. The estimated useful lives are five to seven years.

Assets in the course of development are recategorised and amortisation commences when the assets are available for use.

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Significant accounting policies continued
(g) Leases
(i)  Lease recognition
At inception of a contract the Group assesses whether a contract is or contains a lease. A contract is, or contains, a lease if the contract conveys a 
right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration. To assess whether a contract conveys the right to 
control the use of an identified asset, the Group uses the definition of a lease in IFRS 16.

For leases of properties in which the Group is a lessee, it has applied the practical expedient permitted by IFRS 16 and will account for each lease 
component and any associated non-lease components as a single lease component.

(ii) Right-of-use assets
The Group recognises right-of-use assets at the commencement date of the lease. Right-of-use assets are measured at cost, less accumulated 
depreciation and impairment losses and adjusted for any remeasurement of lease liabilities. The cost of right-of-use assets includes the amount of 
lease liabilities recognised, adjusted for any lease payments made at or before the commencement date, less any lease incentives received. Right-of-
use assets are depreciated over the shorter of the asset’s useful life or the lease term on a straight-line basis. Right-of-use assets are subject to,  
and reviewed regularly for, impairment. Depreciation on right-of-use assets is included in selling and distribution costs in the income statement.

(iii) Lease liabilities
At the commencement date of the lease, the Group recognises lease liabilities measured at the present value of the lease payments to be made over 
the lease term. Lease payments include fixed payments less any lease incentives receivable and variable lease payments that depend on an index or 
rate. Any variable lease payments that do not depend on an index or rate are recognised as an expense in the period in which the event or condition 
that triggers the payment occurs.

In calculating the present value of lease payments, the Group uses its incremental borrowing rate at the lease commencement date if the interest  
rate implicit in the lease is not readily determinable. Generally the Group uses its incremental borrowing rate as the discount rate. When there are no 
external borrowings, judgement would be required to determine an approximation, calculated based on UK Government gilt rates of an appropriate 
duration and adjusted by an indicative credit premium.

After the commencement date, the lease liability is increased to reflect the accretion of interest and reduced for lease payments made. In addition, 
the carrying amount of lease liabilities is remeasured if there is a modification, a change in the lease term or a change in the fixed lease payments.  
The remeasured lease liability (and corresponding right-of-use asset) is calculated using a revised discount rate, based upon a revised incremental 
borrowing rate at the time of the change. Interest charges are included in finance costs in the income statement.

(iv) Short-term leases and leases of low-value assets
The Group has elected not to recognise right-of-use assets and lease liabilities for short-term leases of machinery and equipment that have a lease 
term of less than 12 months and leases of low-value assets. Lease payments relating to short-term leases and leases of low-value assets are 
recognised as an expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSignificant accounting policies continued
(g) Leases continued
(v) Variable lease payments
Some property leases contain variable payment terms that are linked to sales generated from a shop. For individual shops, up to 100% of lease 
payments are on the basis of variable payment terms. These payments are recognised in the income statement in the period in which the condition 
that triggers them occurs. Under existing lease arrangements, where variable payment terms exist, the expected future cash outflow on an annual 
basis is expected to be immaterial.

(h) Property, plant and equipment
(i)  Owned assets
Items of property, plant and equipment are stated at cost or deemed cost less accumulated depreciation (see below) and impairment losses (see 
accounting policy (l)). The cost of self-constructed assets includes the cost of materials and direct labour.

(ii) Subsequent costs
The cost of replacing a component of an item of property, plant and equipment is recognised in the carrying amount of the item if it is probable that 
the future economic benefits embodied within the component will flow to the Group, and its cost can be measured reliably. The carrying value of  
the replaced component is derecognised. The costs of the day-to-day servicing of property, plant and equipment are recognised in the income 
statement as incurred.

(iii) Depreciation
Depreciation is provided so as to write off the cost (less residual value) of each item of property, plant and equipment during its expected useful life 
using the straight-line method over the following periods:

Freehold and long leasehold buildings
Short leasehold properties
Plant and machinery, fixtures and fittings

Freehold land is not depreciated.

20 to 40 years
10 years or length of lease if shorter
3 to 10 years

Depreciation methods, useful lives and residual values (if not insignificant) are reassessed annually.

(iv) Assets in the course of construction
These assets are recategorised and depreciation commences when the assets are available for use.

(i)  Investments
Non-current investments comprise investments in subsidiaries and associates which are carried at cost less impairment.

Current investments comprise fixed-term, fixed-rate bank deposits where the term is greater than three months.

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Significant accounting policies continued
(j) Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Net realisable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of 
business, less the estimated costs of completion and selling expenses. The cost of inventories includes expenditure incurred in acquiring the 
inventories and direct production labour costs.

(k) Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprises cash at bank, in hand, debit and credit card receivables and call deposits with an original maturity of three 
months or less. Bank overdrafts that are repayable on demand and form an integral part of the Group’s cash management are included as a 
component of cash and cash equivalents for the purpose of the statement of cash flows.

(l) Impairment
The carrying amounts of the Group and Company’s assets, other than inventories and deferred tax assets, are reviewed at each balance sheet date  
to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. If any such indication exists, the asset’s recoverable amount is estimated. Impairment 
reviews are carried out on an individual shop basis.

An impairment loss is recognised whenever the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its recoverable amount. Impairment losses are recognised in  
the income statement. Impairment losses recognised in prior years are assessed at each reporting date and reversed if there has been a change in 
the estimates used to determine the recoverable amount. An impairment loss is reversed only to the extent that the asset’s carrying amount does  
not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined, net of depreciation, if no impairment loss had been recognised.

(m) Assets held for sale
Assets that are expected to be recovered primarily through sale rather than through continuing use are classified as held for sale. Immediately before 
classification as held for sale, the assets are remeasured in accordance with the Group and Company’s accounting policies. Thereafter generally the 
assets are measured at the lower of their carrying amount and fair value less cost to sell. Once classified as held for sale assets are no longer 
depreciated or amortised.

(n) Share capital and reserves
(i)  Repurchase of share capital
When share capital recognised as equity is repurchased for cancellation, the amount of the consideration paid, including directly attributable costs,  
is recognised as a deduction from equity in the capital redemption reserve. Repurchased shares that are held in the employee share ownership plan 
are classified as treasury shares and are presented as a deduction from total equity.

(ii) Dividends
Dividends are recognised as a liability when the Company has an obligation to pay and the dividend is no longer at the Company’s discretion.

(iii) Distributable reserves
All Parent Company retained earnings are distributable and are the only such reserves.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSignificant accounting policies continued
(o) Employee share ownership plan
The Group and Parent Company accounts include the assets and related liabilities of the Greggs Employee Benefit Trust (‘EBT’). In both the Group  
and Parent Company accounts the treasury shares held by the EBT are stated at cost and deducted from total equity.

(p) Employee benefits
(i)  Short-term employee benefits
Short-term employee benefits are expensed as the related service is provided. A liability is recognised for the amount expected to be paid if the  
Group has a present legal or constructive obligation to pay this amount as a result of past service provided by the employee and the obligation  
can be measured reliably.

(ii) Defined contribution pension plans
Obligations for contributions to defined contribution pension plans are recognised as an expense in the income statement when they are due.

(iii) Defined benefit pension plans
The Company’s net obligation in respect of defined benefit pension plans is calculated by estimating the amount of future benefit that employees 
have earned in return for their service in the current and prior periods; that benefit is discounted to determine its present value, and the fair value of 
any plan assets (at bid price) is deducted. The Company determines the net interest on the net defined benefit asset/liability for the period by applying 
the discount rate used to measure the defined benefit obligation at the beginning of the annual period to the net defined benefit asset/liability.

The discount rate is the yield at the reporting date on bonds that have a credit rating of at least AA, that have maturity dates approximating to the 
terms of the Company’s obligations and that are denominated in the currency in which the benefits are expected to be paid.

Remeasurements arising from defined benefit pension plans comprise actuarial gains and losses and the return on plan assets (excluding interest). 
The Company recognises them immediately in other comprehensive income and all other expenses related to defined benefit pension plans in 
employee benefit expenses in the income statement.

When the benefits of a plan are changed, or when a plan is curtailed, the portion of the changed benefit related to past service by employees,  
or the gain or loss on curtailment, is recognised immediately in the income statement when the plan amendment or curtailment occurs.

The calculation of the defined benefit obligation is performed by a qualified actuary using the projected unit credit method. When the calculation 
results in a benefit to the Company, the recognised asset is limited to the present value of benefits available in the form of any future refunds from  
the plan (net of tax) or reductions in future contributions and takes into account the adverse effect of any minimum funding requirements in 
accordance with IFRIC 14.

(iv) Share-based payment transactions
The share option programme allows Group employees to acquire shares in the Company. The fair value of share options granted is recognised as  
an employee expense with a corresponding increase in equity. The fair value is measured at grant date, using an appropriate model, taking into 
account the terms and conditions upon which the share options were granted, and is spread over the period during which the employees become 
unconditionally entitled to the options. The amount recognised as an expense is adjusted to reflect the actual number of share options that vest 
except where forfeiture is only due to share prices not achieving the threshold for vesting.

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Significant accounting policies continued
(p) Employee benefits continued
(v) Termination benefits
Termination benefits are expensed at the earlier of the date at which the Group can no longer withdraw the offer of these benefits and the date at which  
the Group recognises costs for a restructuring. If benefits are not expected to be settled wholly within 12 months of the reporting date they are discounted. 

(q) Provisions
A provision is recognised if, as a result of a past event, the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation that can be estimated reliably, and it is 
probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation. Provisions are determined by discounting the expected future 
cash flows at a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the liability.

(i)  Restructuring
A provision for restructuring is recognised when the Group has approved a detailed and formal restructuring plan, and the restructuring either  
has commenced or has been announced publicly. Future operating costs are not provided for.

(ii) Onerous contracts
Provisions for onerous contracts are recognised when the Group believes that the unavoidable costs of meeting the contract obligations exceed  
the economic benefits expected to be received under the contract. At this point and before a provision is established the Group recognises any 
impairment loss on the associated assets.

(iii) Dilapidations
The Group provides for property dilapidations, where appropriate, based on the future expected repair costs required to restore the Group’s  
leased buildings to their fair condition at the end of their respective lease terms, where it is considered a reliable estimate can be made.

(r) Revenue
(i) Retail sales
Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised as income on receipt of cash or card payment. Revenue is measured net of discounts,  
promotions and value added taxation. Revenue from delivery services is included in retail sales and recognised on delivery.

(ii) Franchise sales
Franchise sales are recognised when goods are delivered to franchisees. Additional franchise royalty fee income, generally calculated as a 
percentage of gross sales income, is recognised in line with the franchisees’ product sales in accordance with the relevant agreement. Pre-opening 
capital fit-out costs are recharged to the franchisee and represent a key performance obligation of the overall franchise sales agreement. These 
recharges are recognised as income on completion of the related fit-out. Sales are invoiced to franchisees on credit terms of less than three months.

(iii) Wholesale sales
Wholesale sales are recognised when goods are delivered to customers. 

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Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSignificant accounting policies continued
(r) Revenues continued
(iv) Loyalty programme/gift cards
Amounts received for gift cards or as part of the loyalty programme are deferred. They are recognised as revenue when the Group has fulfilled  
its obligation to supply products under the terms of the programme or when it is no longer probable that these amounts will be redeemed.  
Where customers are entitled to a free product after a set number of purchases under the loyalty programme, a proportion of the consideration 
received is deferred so that the revenue is recognised evenly across all of the linked transactions.

The nature, timing and uncertainty of revenues arising from the above transaction types do not differ significantly from each other.

(s) Government grants
Government grants are recognised in the balance sheet initially as deferred income when there is a reasonable assurance that they will be received 
and that the Group will comply with the conditions attaching to them. Grants that compensate the Group for expenses incurred are recognised  
net of the related expenses in the income statement on a systematic basis in the same periods in which the expenses are incurred. Grants that 
compensate the Group for the cost of an asset are recognised in the income statement over the useful life of the asset.

(t) Finance income and expense
Interest income or expense is recognised using the effective interest method.

(u) Income tax
Income tax comprises current and deferred tax. Income tax is recognised in the income statement except to the extent that it relates to items 
recognised directly in equity, in which case it is recognised in equity.

Current tax is the expected tax payable on the taxable profit for the year, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date, 
and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous years. The amount of current tax payable is the best estimate of the tax amount expected  
to be paid that reflects uncertainty related to income taxes, if any. Taxable profit differs from profit as reported in the income statement because 
some items of income or expense are taxable or deductible in different years or may never be taxable or deductible.

Deferred tax is the tax expected to be payable or recoverable in the future arising from temporary differences between the carrying amounts of 
assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used in the calculation of taxable profit. It is accounted for using the balance 
sheet liability method. The amount of deferred tax recognised is based on the expected manner of realisation or settlement of the carrying amounts 
of assets and liabilities, using tax rates that are expected to apply when the temporary differences reverse, based on rates enacted or substantively 
enacted at the balance sheet date. When the recovery of the carrying amount of an asset gives rise to multiple tax consequences which are not 
subject to the same income tax laws, separate temporary differences are identified, and the deferred tax on these is accounted for separately, 
including assessment of the recoverability of any deferred tax assets that arise.

Deferred tax is not recognised for the following temporary differences: the initial recognition of assets or liabilities in a transaction that is not a 
business combination and that affects neither accounting nor taxable profit, and differences relating to investments in subsidiaries to the extent  
that it is probable that they will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

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Significant accounting policies continued
(u) Income tax continued
A deferred tax asset is recognised only to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which the asset can be 
utilised. Deferred tax assets are reviewed at each reporting date and are reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that the related deferred 
tax benefit will be realised.

(v) Trade and other receivables
Trade receivables are recognised initially at the amount of consideration that is unconditional. They are subsequently measured at amortised  
cost using the effective interest method, less loss allowance.

(w) Trade and other payables
These amounts represent liabilities for goods and services provided to the Group prior to the end of the financial year which are unpaid.  
The amounts are unsecured and are usually paid within 45 days of recognition.

(x) Research and development
The Company continuously strives to improve its products and processes through technical and other innovation. Such expenditure is typically 
expensed to the income statement when the related intellectual property is not capable of being formalised or capitalised within intangible assets.

(y) IFRSs available for early adoption not yet applied
The following amendments to standards which will be relevant to the Group were available for early adoption but have not been applied  
in these accounts:
 – Amendments to IAS 16: Property, Plant and Equipment – Proceeds before Intended Use (effective 1 January 2022);
 – Amendments to IAS 37: Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets: Onerous Contracts – Cost of Fulfilling a Contract (effective 

1 January 2022); and 

 – Annual Improvements 2018-2020 (effective 1 January 2022).

Their adoption is not expected to have a material effect on the accounts.

136

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc1. Segmental analysis 
The Board is considered to be the ‘chief operating decision maker’ of the Group in the context of the IFRS 8 definition. In addition to its company-
managed retail activities, the Group generates revenues from its business to business channel which includes franchise and wholesale activities. 
Both channels were categorised as reportable segments for the purposes of IFRS 8.

Company-managed retail activities – the Group sells a consistent range of fresh bakery goods, sandwiches and drinks in its own shops or via delivery. 
Sales are made to the general public on a cash basis. All results arise in the UK.

Business to business channel – the Group sells products to franchise and wholesale partners for sale in their own outlets as well as charging a licence 
fee to franchise partners. These sales and fees are invoiced to the partners on a credit basis. All results arise in the UK.

All revenue in 2021 and 2020 was recognised at a point in time.

In 2021 the Board has regularly reviewed the revenues and trading profit of each segment. During 2020 the Board regularly reviewed the revenues of 
each segment. However, a review of the trading profit for each segment was not possible during 2020 as there was no basis on which meaningfully to 
allocate costs during the period when company-managed shops were closed. The Board receives information on overheads, assets and liabilities on 
an aggregated basis consistent with the Group accounts.

Revenue

Trading profit*
Overheads including profit share
Operating profit/(loss)
Finance expense

Profit/(loss) before tax 

2021 
Retail 
company-
managed shops 
£m

1,098.2 

207.1 

2021 
Business to 
business 
£m

131.5 

28.5 

2020 
Retail 
company-
managed shops
£m

715.3 

 – 

2020 
Business to 
business
£m

96.0 

 – 

2021 
Total 
£m

1,229.7 

235.6 
(82.4)
153.2 
(7.6)

145.6 

2020 
Total 
£m

811.3 

66.4
(73.4)
(7.0)
(6.7)

(13.7)

* trading profit is defined as gross profit less supply chain costs and retail costs (including property costs) and before central overheads

2. Financial risk management
Credit risk
Credit risk is the risk of financial loss to the Group if a customer or counterparty to a financial instrument fails to meet its contractual obligations.

Retail sales represent a large proportion of the Group’s sales and present no credit risk as they are made for cash or card payments. The Group does 
offer credit terms on sales to its wholesale and franchise customers. In such cases the Group operates effective credit control procedures in order  
to minimise exposure to overdue debts.

Counterparty risk is also considered low. All of the Group’s surplus cash is held with highly-rated banks, in line with Group policy. Other receivables 
generally relate to VAT and other sundry balances due from third parties. Credit risk is considered low as amounts are generally recoverable within 
30-day terms.

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

2. Financial risk management continued
Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they fall due.

The Group usually operates with net current liabilities and is therefore reliant on the continued strong performance of the retail portfolio to meet its short-term liabilities. 
Short and medium-term cash forecasting is used to manage liquidity risk. These forecasts are used to ensure the Group has sufficient liquidity to meet its liabilities when 
due, under both normal and stressed conditions.

During 2020 the Group arranged a £100 million syndicated revolving credit facility with maturity in December 2023. During 2021 the Group exercised an option to extend  
the maturity by one year to December 2024. There is a further option available for another one-year extension. This facility was undrawn at 1 January 2022 (2020: undrawn). 
The covenants comprise: leverage (calculated as the ratio of net borrowings to EBITDA) does not exceed 3:1; and fixed charge cover (calculated as the ratio of EBITDA to  
net rent and interest payable) cannot be below 1.75:1.

Market risk
Market risk is the risk that changes in market prices, such as foreign exchange rates, interest rates and equity prices will affect the Group’s income or the value of its 
holdings of financial instruments.

Other than for pension scheme assets market risk is not significant and therefore sensitivity analysis would not be meaningful. Sensitivity analysis for pension scheme 
assets is given in Note 21.

Currency risk
The Group has no regular material transactions in foreign currency although there are occasional purchases, mainly of capital items, denominated in foreign currency. 
Whilst certain costs such as electricity and wheat can be influenced by movements in the US dollar, actual contracts are priced in sterling. In respect of those key costs 
which are volatile, such as electricity and flour, the price may be fixed for a period of time in line with Group policy. All such contracts are for the Group’s own expected usage.

Interest rate risk
Interest rate risk is the risk that the interbank offered rates increase causing finance costs to increase. The Group’s interest rate risk arises from its revolving credit facility. 
Whilst the facility remains undrawn increases in the interest rate will not impact on finance costs.

Equity price risk
The Group has no significant equity investments other than its subsidiaries and associate. As disclosed in Note 21 the Group’s defined benefit pension scheme  
has investments in equity-related funds.

Capital management 
The Group’s capital management objectives are:

 – To ensure the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern so that it can continue to provide returns for shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders; and
 – To provide an adequate return to shareholders by pricing products and delivering services commensurate with the level of risk.

138

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc2. Financial risk management continued
Capital management continued
To meet these objectives the Group reviews the budgets and forecasts on a regular basis to ensure there is sufficient capital to meet the needs  
of the Group through to profitability and positive cashflow.

The capital structure of the Group consists of shareholders’ equity as set out in the consolidated statement of changes in equity.  
All working capital requirements are financed from existing cash resources and borrowings.

The Board reserves the option to purchase its own shares in the market dependent on market prices and surplus cash levels.  
The trustees of the Greggs Employee Benefit Trust also purchase shares for future satisfaction of employee share options.

Financial instruments
Group and Parent Company
All of the Group’s surplus cash or cash equivalents is invested as cash placed on deposit or fixed-term deposits.

The Group’s treasury policy has as its principal objective the achievement of the maximum rate of return on cash balances whilst maintaining  
an acceptable level of risk. Other than mentioned below there are no financial instruments, derivatives or commodity contracts used.

Financial assets and liabilities
A financial asset is measured at amortised cost if it meets both of the following conditions:

 – It is held within a business model whose objective is to hold assets to collect contractual cash flows; and
 – Its contractual terms give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount 

outstanding.

The Group’s main financial assets comprise cash and cash equivalents and fixed-term deposits. Other financial assets include trade and  
other receivables arising from the Group’s activities. These financial assets all meet the conditions to be recognised at amortised cost.

Other than trade and other payables and lease liabilities, the Group had no financial liabilities as at 1 January 2022 (2020: £nil).

Fair values
The fair value of the Group’s financial assets and liabilities is not materially different from their carrying values. Financial assets and liabilities 
comprise principally of trade and other receivables and trade and other payables and the only interest-bearing balances are the bank deposits  
and borrowings which attract interest at variable rates.

Interest rate, credit and foreign currency risk
The Group has not entered into any hedging transactions during the current and prior year and considers interest rate, credit and  
foreign currency risks not to be significant.

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3.  Profit/(loss) before tax
Profit/(loss) before tax is stated after charging/(crediting):

Amortisation of intangible assets
Depreciation of owned property, plant and equipment
Depreciation of right-of-use assets
Net impairment of owned property, plant and equipment
Net impairment of right-of-use assets
Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment

Release of Government grants

2021 
£m

4.5 
54.2 
48.7 
(1.9)
(1.6)
0.9 

(0.5)

2020 
£m

4.0 
56.9 
51.9 
5.2 
8.8 
0.5 

(0.5)

Auditor’s remuneration for the audit of these accounts amounted to £250,000 (2020: £193,000) and for other assurance services £nil (2020: £15,000). 
Amounts paid to the Company’s auditor in respect of services to the Company, other than the audit of the Company’s accounts, have not been 
disclosed as the information is required instead to be presented on a consolidated basis.

During 2020 the Group received £87 million under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (‘CJRS’) to support employment. This was credited to  
the income statement to offset the related employment costs. During 2021 the Group received £4.9 million under this scheme. In early July 2021  
this amount was repaid in light of improved performance and trading outlook of our shops and a corresponding charge recognised in the  
income statement.

During 2021 an income statement saving of £14.9 million (2020: £18.8 million) was made following the suspension of business rates until April 2021.

4. Exceptional items

Cost of sales
Supply chain restructuring 
 –
 –

redundancy 
transfer of operations

Total exceptional items

2021 
£m

 – 
 – 

 – 

2020 
£m

0.1 
0.7 

0.8 

Supply chain restructuring
This charge arose from the decisions, announced in 2016 and 2017, to invest in and reshape the Company’s supply chain in order to support future 
growth. In 2020 the costs related to accelerated depreciation and the expenses incurred as a result of further consolidation of manufacturing  
into dedicated centres of excellence, including additional running costs. This programme of investment was completed in 2021.

140

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc5. Personnel expenses
The average number of persons employed by the Group and Parent Company (including Directors) during the year was as follows:

Management
Administration
Production
Shop

The aggregate costs of these persons were as follows:

Wages and salaries
Compulsory social security contributions
Pension costs – defined benefit plan
Pension costs – defined contribution plans
Equity-settled transactions (including employer’s NI costs)

2021 
Number

601 
353 
2,935 
18,994 

22,883

2021 
£m

378.0 
25.0 
 – 
22.4 
3.8 

429.2

Note

21
21
21

In addition to wages and salaries, the total amount accrued under the Group’s employee profit sharing scheme is contained within  
the main cost categories as follows:

2021
 £m

Cost of sales
Distribution and selling costs

Administrative expense

Amount shared with employees
Compulsory social security contributions

4.3
10.3

2.0

16.6
2.1

18.7

For the purposes of IAS 24 ‘Related Party Disclosures’, key management personnel comprises the Directors and the members of the  
Operating Board and their remuneration was as follows:

Salaries and fees
Taxable benefits
Annual bonus (including profit share)
Post-retirement benefits
Equity-settled transactions

2021 
£m

3.4 
0.1 
2.4 
0.3 
0.9

7.1

2020 
Number

681 
361 
3,026 
20,276 

24,344 

2020 
£m

363.5 
26.2 
 – 
24.9 
0.2 

414.8 

2020 
£m

 – 
 – 

 – 

–
–

 – 

2020 
£m

2.7 
0.1 
 – 
0.3 
0.2 

3.3 

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5. Personnel expenses (continued)
The following amounts are disclosed in accordance with Schedule 5 of the Large and Medium-Sized Companies and Groups (Accounts and Reports) 
Regulations 2008.

2021 
£m

2020 
£m

Aggregate Directors’ remuneration
Aggregate amount of gains on exercise of share options

2.5
2.0 

4.5

1.4
 – 

1.4

The 2020 figures have been updated to recognise bonus costs on an accruals basis rather than a cash basis.

The number of Directors in the defined contribution pension scheme and in the defined benefit pension scheme during the year was one (2020: one).

6. Finance expense (net)

Interest income on cash balances
Interest expense on borrowings and other related charges
Foreign exchange (loss)/gain
Interest on lease liabilities
Net interest related to defined benefit pension obligation 

Note

21

2021 
£m

 – 
(1.1)
(0.1)
(6.3)
(0.1)

(7.6)

7. Profit attributable to Greggs plc
Of the Group profit for the year, £117.6 million (2020: £12.9 million loss) is dealt with in the accounts of the Parent Company. The Company has  
taken advantage of the exemption permitted by s408 of the Companies Act 2006 from presenting its own income statement.

8. Income tax expense
Recognised in the income statement

Current tax 
Current year
Adjustment for prior years

Deferred tax 
Origination and reversal of temporary differences
Adjustment for prior years

Total income tax expense in income statement

142

2021 
£m

19.1 
(0.2)
18.9 

10.2 
(1.0)
9.2 

28.1 

2020 
£m

0.4 
(0.8)
0.2 
(6.5)
 – 

(6.7)

2020 
£m

(0.6)
(0.6)
(1.2)

0.4 
0.1 
0.5 

(0.7)

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc8. Income tax expense continued
Reconciliation of effective tax rate
The tables below explain the differences between the expected tax expense calculated at the UK statutory rate of 19% (2020: 19%) and the  
actual tax expense for each year. 

Profit/(loss) before tax

Income tax using the domestic corporation tax rate
Items not (taxable)/deductible for tax purposes
Non-tax-deductible depreciation
Impairment of non-tax-deductible assets
Impact of increase in deferred tax rate
Adjustment for prior years

Total income tax expense in income statement

2021 

19.00%
(1.97%)
0.72% 
(0.15%)
2.51% 
(0.79%)

19.32%

2021 
£m 

145.6 

27.7 
(2.8)
1.0 
(0.2)
3.6 
(1.2)

28.1 

2020 

19.00%
(2.35%)
(9.39%)
(0.99%)
(4.92%)
3.49% 

5.23% 

2020
£m

(13.7)

(2.6)
0.3 
1.3 
0.1 
0.7 
(0.5)

(0.7)

Legislation to increase the rate of Corporation tax to 25% from 1 April 2023 was substantively enacted on 24 May 2021. The 25% rate has therefore 
been applied to any timing differences that are expected to reverse on or after 1 April 2023 whilst a rate of 19% has been applied to those timing 
differences expected to reverse before 1 April 2023.

Tax recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity

Debit/(credit)
Relating to equity-settled transactions
Relating to defined benefit pension plans – remeasurement gains/(losses)

2021 
Current tax 
£m

2021 
Deferred tax 
£m

 – 
 – 

 – 

(3.2)
1.7

(1.5)

2021 
Total 
£m

(3.2)
1.7

(1.5)

2020 
Total 
£m

1.5 
(2.1)

(0.6)

The deferred tax movements in both the current and prior years relating to equity-settled transactions are in respect of share-based payments and 
arise as a result of fluctuations in share price in the year and the stage of maturity of existing schemes together with the revaluation impact of the 
deferred tax previously recognised directly in equity.

The deferred tax movements in both the current and prior years relating to defined benefit pension plans are in respect of plan remeasurements 
accounted for in other comprehensive income together with the revaluation impact of the deferred tax previously recognised directly in equity.

143143

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

9. Earnings per share 
Basic earnings/(loss) per share
Basic earnings per share for the 52 weeks ended 1 January 2022 is calculated by dividing profit attributable to ordinary shareholders by the weighted 
average number of ordinary shares in issue during the 52 weeks ended 1 January 2022 as calculated below.

Diluted earnings/(loss) per share
Diluted earnings per share for the 52 weeks ended 1 January 2022 is calculated by dividing profit attributable to ordinary shareholders by the weighted 
average number of ordinary shares, adjusted for the effects of all dilutive potential ordinary shares (which comprise share options granted to 
employees) in issue during the 52 weeks ended 1 January 2022 as calculated below.

Potential ordinary shares can only be treated as dilutive when their conversion to ordinary shares would decrease earnings per share or increase loss 
per share. As the Group recognised a loss for the 53 weeks ended 2 January 2021, none of the potential ordinary shares were considered to be dilutive 
for that period.

Profit/(loss) attributable to ordinary shareholders

Profit/(loss) for the financial year attributable to equity holders of the Parent

Basic earnings/(loss) per share 
Diluted earnings/(loss) per share 

Weighted average number of ordinary shares

Issued ordinary shares at start of year 
Effect of own shares held

Effect of shares issued

Weighted average number of ordinary shares during the year

Effect of share options in issue

Weighted average number of ordinary shares (diluted) during the year

2021 
£m

117.5

115.7p
114.3p

2020 
£m

(13.0)

(12.9p)
(12.9p)

2021 
Number

101,426,038
(221,851)

284,386 

2020 
Number

101,155,901
(302,104)

113,334 

101,488,573 

100,967,131 

1,261,311 

 – 

102,749,884 

100,967,131 

144

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc 
 
10. Intangible assets
Group and Parent Company

Cost
Balance at 29 December 2019
Additions
Transfers

Balance at 2 January 2021

Balance at 3 January 2021
Additions
Transfers
Balance at 1 January 2022

Amortisation
Balance at 29 December 2019
Amortisation charge for the year

Balance at 2 January 2021

Balance at 3 January 2021
Amortisation charge for the year

Balance at 1 January 2022

Carrying amounts

At 29 December 2019

At 2 January 2021

At 3 January 2021

At 1 January 2022

Software 
£m

Assets under 
development 
£m

28.9 
2.7 
1.5 

33.1 

33.1 
3.1 
0.1 
36.3 

13.6 
4.0 

17.6 

17.6 
4.5 

22.1 

15.3 

15.5 

15.5 

14.2 

1.5 
0.1 
(1.5)

0.1 

0.1 
0.7 
(0.1)
0.7 

 – 
 – 

 – 

 – 
 – 

 – 

1.5 

0.1 

0.1 

0.7 

Total 
£m

30.4 
2.8 
 – 

33.2 

33.2 
3.8
 – 
37.0 

13.6 
4.0 

17.6 

17.6 
4.5 

22.1 

16.8 

15.6 

15.6 

14.9 

All amortisation is charged to administrative expenses in the income statement

Assets under development relate to software projects arising from the investment in new systems platforms

145145

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

11. Leases
Amounts recognised in the balance sheets
The balance sheets show the following amounts relating to leases:

Group and Parent Company

Right-of-use assets
Land and buildings
Plant and equipment

Lease liabilities
Current
Non-current

The remaining maturities of the lease liabilities, which are gross and undiscounted, are as follows:

Less than one year
One to two years
Two to three years
Three to four years
Four to five years
More than five years

Total undiscounted lease liability

2021 
£m

260.4 
3.2 

263.6 

2021  
£m

49.3 
233.9 

283.2 

2021 
£m

53.0 
47.1 
43.1 
38.3 
31.0 
92.6 

305.1 

2020 
£m

267.8 
2.3 

270.1 

2020  
£m

48.6 
243.1 

291.7 

2020 
£m

54.4 
49.3 
43.6 
39.2 
34.1 
94.9 

315.5 

Additions to right-of-use assets during the 52 weeks ended 1 January 2022 as a result of entering into new leases (either as a result of acquiring  
new shops or completing a lease renewal for an existing shop) were £49.6 million (2020: 26.2 million).

A further net decrease of £9.1 million to right-of-use assets has also been recognised during the 52 weeks ended 1 January 2022 as a result  
of lease modifications and assumptions relating to lease term once a lease has become expired (2020: increase of £31.9 million).

146

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc11. Leases continued
Amounts recognised in the income statement

Depreciation charge on right-of-use assets
Land and buildings
Plant and equipment

Impairment (reversal)/charge

Interest expense (included in finance cost)
Expense included for short-term leases (included in cost of sales and administrative expenses)
Expense related to leases of low-value assets that are not shown above as short-term leases (included in administrative expenses)

Expense related to variable lease payments not included in lease liabilities (included in distribution and selling costs)

2021 
£m

47.7 
1.0 

48.7 

(1.6)

6.3 
0.1 
0.1 

2.1 

The impairment (reversal)/charge is (credited)/charged to distribution and selling costs in the income statement and arises due to changes  
in the trading performance of the shops.

The total cash outflow for leases in 2021 was £55.3 million (2020: £48.6 million).

The components of the movement in the total lease liability were as follows:

Opening total liability
Additions in respect of new leases
Lease modifications
Interest on lease liabilities
Rental payments

Closing total liability

2020 
£m

50.2 
1.7 

51.9 

8.8

6.5 
0.2 
0.2 

0.6 

2021 
£m

291.7 
49.6

(9.1) 
6.3
(55.3)

283.2 

147147

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

12. Property, plant and equipment
Group

Cost
Balance at 29 December 2019
Additions
Disposals
Transfers

Balance at 2 January 2021

Balance at 3 January 2021
Additions
Disposals
Transfers
Reclassified as held for sale

Balance at 1 January 2022

Depreciation
Balance at 29 December 2019
Depreciation charge for the year
Impairment charge for the year
Impairment release for the year
Disposals

Balance at 2 January 2021

Balance at 3 January 2021
Depreciation charge for the year
Impairment charge for the year
Impairment release for the year
Disposals
Reclassified as held for sale

Balance at 1 January 2022

Carrying amounts

At 29 December 2019

At 2 January 2021

At 3 January 2021

At 1 January 2022

Land and 
buildings 
£m

Plant and 
equipment
£m

Fixtures and 
fittings 
£m

Assets under 
construction
£m

166.3 
3.3 
(0.7)
– 

168.9

168.9
4.5 
(0.5)
19.6 
(1.8)

190.7 

48.2 
4.9 
– 
– 
(0.3)

52.8 

52.8 
5.5 
– 
(1.0)
(0.1)
(0.2)

57.0 

118.1 

116.1 

116.1 

133.7 

168.6 
10.1 
(8.1)
1.9 

172.5 

172.5 
14.9 
(11.5)
7.3 
– 

183.2 

89.3 
14.3 
– 
– 
(7.4)

96.2 

96.2 
15.4 
0.1 
(0.4)
(11.4)
– 

99.9 

79.3 

76.3 

76.3 

83.3 

337.8 
19.6 
(8.7)
– 

348.7 

348.7 
31.4 
(16.3)
– 
– 

363.8 

187.4 
37.6 
5.9 
(0.7)
(7.5)

222.7 

222.7 
33.3 
0.7 
(1.3)
(15.6)
– 

239.8 

150.4 

126.0 

126.0 

124.0 

5.9 
22.9 
– 
(1.9)

26.9 

26.9 
2.8 
– 
(26.9)
–

2.8 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

5.9 

26.9 

26.9 

2.8 

Total 
£m

678.6 
55.9 
(17.5)
– 

717.0

717.0
53.6 
(28.3)
– 
(1.8)

740.5 

324.9 
56.8 
5.9 
(0.7)
(15.2)

371.7 

371.7 
54.2 
0.8 
(2.7)
(27.1)
(0.2)

396.7 

353.7 

345.3 

345.3 

343.8 

Assets under construction relate to the building of an automated pizza line at our Enfield bakery.

148

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc12. Property, plant and equipment continued
Assets are reviewed for impairment if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable and provision  
is made where necessary. The method and assumptions used in these calculations, together with the associated sensitivities and reasons for 
impairment, are set out in the basis of preparation – key estimates and judgements on pages 126 and 127. Any impairment charge/(reversal) is  
charged/(credited) to distribution and selling costs in the income statement.

During 2018, the Company exchanged contracts for the disposal of the vacant Twickenham site. The disposal is conditional on a number of factors, 
including the applications for and successful grant of planning permission. As at the end of 2021 the timing of the resolution of these factors remains 
uncertain and therefore this asset continues to be classified as non-current. At this stage the total proceeds arising from supply chain site disposals 
are still expected to be in line with those anticipated in the investment plan. 

During 2021, the Company exchanged contracts for the sale of land held in Southall. The cost and associated depreciation has been reclassified  
as an asset held for sale in current assets.

149149

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

12. Property, plant and equipment continued
Parent Company

Cost
Balance at 29 December 2019
Additions
Disposals
Transfers

Balance at 2 January 2021

Balance at 3 January 2021
Additions
Disposals
Transfers
Reclassified as held for sale

Balance at 1 January 2022

Depreciation
Balance at 29 December 2019
Depreciation charge for the year
Impairment charge for the year
Impairment release for the year
Disposals

Balance at 2 January 2021

Balance at 3 January 2021
Depreciation charge for the year
Impairment charge for the year
Impairment release for the year
Disposals
Reclassified as held for sale

Balance at 1 January 2022

Carrying amounts

At 29 December 2019

At 2 January 2021

At 3 January 2021

At 1 January 2022

150

Land and buildings 
£m

Plant and 
equipment 
£m

Fixtures and 
fittings 
£m

Assets under 
construction 
£m

166.8 
3.3 
(0.7)
– 

169.4 

169.4 
4.5 
(0.5)
19.6 
(1.8)

191.2 

48.5 
4.9 
– 
– 
(0.3)

53.1 

53.1 
5.5 
– 
(1.0)
(0.1)
(0.2)

57.3 

118.3 

116.3 

116.3 

133.9 

169.1 
10.1 
(8.1)
1.9 

173.0 

173.0 
14.9 
(11.5)
7.3 
– 

183.7 

89.5 
14.3 
– 
– 
(7.4)

96.4 

96.4 
15.4 
0.1 
(0.4)
(11.4)
– 

100.1 

79.6 

76.6 

76.6 

83.6 

338.3 
19.6 
(8.7)
– 

349.2 

349.2 
31.4 
(16.3)
– 
– 

364.3 

187.8 
37.6 
5.9 
(0.7)
(7.5)

223.1 

223.1 
33.3 
0.7 
(1.3)
(15.6)
– 

240.2 

150.5 

126.1 

126.1 

124.1 

5.9 
22.9 
– 
(1.9)

26.9 

26.9 
2.8 
– 
(26.9)
–

2.8 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

5.9 

26.9 

26.9 

2.8 

Total 
£m

680.1 
55.9 
(17.5)
– 

718.5 

718.5 
53.6 
(28.3)
– 
(1.8)

742.0 

325.8 
56.8 
5.9 
(0.7)
(15.2)

372.6 

372.6 
54.2 
0.8 
(2.7)
(27.1)
(0.2)

397.6 

354.3 

345.9 

345.9 

344.4 

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc 
12. Property, plant and equipment (continued)
Land and buildings

The carrying amount of land and buildings comprises:

Freehold property
Long leasehold property
Short leasehold property

13. Investments
Non-current investments

Parent Company

Cost

Balance at 29 December 2019, 2 January 2021 and 1 January 2022

Impairment

Balance at 29 December 2019, 2 January 2021 and 1 January 2022

Carrying amount

Balance at 29 December 2019, 2 January 2021, 3 January 2021 and 1 January 2022

Group

Parent Company

2021 
£m

132.5 

0.4

0.8

133.7 

2020 
£m

114.7 

0.4

1.0 

116.1 

2021 
£m

132.7 

0.4

0.8 

133.9 

2020 
£m

114.9 

0.4

1.0 

116.3 

Shares in subsidiary 
undertakings 
£m

5.8 

0.8

5.0 

151151

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

13. Investments continued
The undertakings in which the Company’s interest at the year end is more than 20% are as follows:

Charles Bragg (Bakers) Limited
Greggs (Leasing) Limited
Thurston Parfitt Limited
Greggs Properties Limited
Olivers (U.K.) Limited
Olivers (U.K.) Development Limited*
Birketts Holdings Limited
J.R. Birkett and Sons Limited*
Greggs Trustees Limited

Solstice Zone A Management Company Limited

Principal activity

Non-trading
Dormant
Non-trading
Property holding
Dormant
Non-trading
Dormant
Non-trading
Trustees

Non-trading

Address of 
registered office

Proportion of 
voting rights and 
shares held

1
1
1
1
2
2
1
1
1

3

100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%

28%

* held indirectly

1 Greggs House  
Quorum Business Park, 
Newcastle upon Tyne 
NE12 8BU 

2 Clydesmill Bakery 
75 Westburn Drive 
Clydesmill Estate 
Cambuslang  
Glasgow  
G72 7NA

3 The Abbey 
Preston Road,
Yeovil
Somerset
BA20 2EN

Solstice Zone A Management Company Limited was not consolidated on the grounds of materiality in either the current or prior year.

The Company’s subsidiary undertakings listed above were all entitled to exemption, under subsections (1) and (2) of s480 of Companies Act 2006 
relating to dormant companies, from the requirement to have their accounts audited.

14. Deferred tax assets and liabilities
Group
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are attributable to the following:

Property, plant and equipment
Employee benefits
Short-term temporary differences
Unused tax losses

Tax assets/(liabilities)

152

Assets

Liabilities

Net

2021 
£m

– 
6.6
0.6 
1.3 

8.5

2020 
£m

– 
5.5 
0.5 
– 

6.0 

2021 
£m

(18.5)
– 
– 
– 

(18.5)

2020 
£m 

(8.3)
– 
– 
– 

(8.3)

2021 
£m 

(18.5)
6.6
0.6 
1.3 

(10.0)

2020 
£m

(8.3)
5.5 
0.5 
– 

(2.3)

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
14. Deferred tax assets and liabilities continued
Group continued
The Group has a deferred tax asset of £8.5 million relating to buildings which previously qualified for industrial buildings allowance,  
that is unrecognised at 1 January 2022 as it is not considered to be recoverable (2 January 2021: £5.7 million).

The movements in temporary differences during the 53 weeks ended 2 January 2021 were as follows:

Property, plant and equipment
Employee benefits
Short-term temporary differences

Balance at 
29 December 2019 
£m

Recognised 
in income
£m

Recognised 
in equity
£m 

Balance at 
2 January 2021 
£m

(8.5)
5.4 
0.7 

(2.4)

0.2 
(0.5)
(0.2)

(0.5)

– 
0.6 
– 

0.6 

(8.3)
5.5 
0.5 

(2.3)

The movements in temporary differences during the 52 weeks ended 1 January 2022 were as follows:

Balance at 
3 January 2021 
£m

Recognised 
 in income 
£m

Recognised 
in equity 
£m

Balance at 
1 January 2022 
£m

Property, plant and equipment
Employee benefits
Short-term temporary differences
Unused tax losses

Parent Company
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are attributable to the following:

(8.3)
5.5 
0.5 
– 

(2.3)

(10.2)
(0.4)
0.1 
1.3 

(9.2)

– 
1.5
– 
– 

1.5

Property, plant and equipment
Employee benefits
Short-term temporary differences
Unused tax losses

Tax assets/(liabilities)

Assets

Liabilities

Net

2021 
£m

– 
6.6
0.6 
1.3 

8.5

2020 
£m

– 
5.5 
0.5 
– 

6.0 

2021 
£m

(17.9)
– 
– 
– 

(17.9)

2020 
£m 

(7.8)
– 
– 
– 

(7.8)

2021 
£m

(17.9)
6.6
0.6 
1.3 

(9.4)

(18.5)
6.6
0.6 
1.3 

(10.0)

2020  
£m

(7.8)
5.5 
0.5 
– 

(1.8)

153153

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

14. Deferred tax assets and liabilities continued
Parent Company continued
The movements in temporary differences during the 53 weeks ended 2 January 2021 were as follows:

Property, plant and equipment
Employee benefits
Short-term temporary differences

Balance at 
29 December 2019 
£m

Recognised in 
income  
£m

Recognised in 
equity 
£m

Balance at 
2 January 2021  
£m

(8.1)
5.4 
0.7 

(2.0)

0.3 
(0.5)
(0.2)

(0.4)

– 
0.6 
– 

0.6 

(7.8)
5.5 
0.5 

(1.8)

The movements in temporary differences during the 52 weeks ended 1 January 2022 were as follows:

Property, plant and equipment
Employee benefits
Short-term temporary differences
Unused tax losses

15. Inventories

Raw materials and consumables
Work in progress

Total

Balance at 
3 January 2021 
£m

Recognised in 
income 
£m

Recognised in 
equity
£m

Balance at 
1 January 2022
£m 

(7.8)
5.5 
0.5 
– 

(1.8)

(10.1)
(0.4)
0.1 
1.3 

(9.1)

– 
1.5
– 
– 

1.5

(17.9)
6.6
0.6 
1.3 

(9.4)

Group and Parent Company

2021 
£m

15.8 
12.1 

27.9 

2020 
£m

13.3 
9.2 

22.5 

Inventory recognised as an expense during the year was £347.7 million (2020: £231.8 million). The write-down of inventories that was recognised  
as an expense in the period was £36.0 million (2020: £34.9 million). There was no reversal of write-down of inventories in the current or prior year.

154

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc16. Trade and other receivables

Trade receivables
Other receivables
Prepayments

Group and Parent Company

2021 
£m

24.5 
7.4 
5.7 

37.6 

2020 
£m

22.0 
11.4 
6.0 

39.4 

At 1 January 2022 and 2 January 2021 the allowance for bad debts was immaterial. Expected credit losses (‘ECLs’) on financial assets are not material.

The ageing of trade receivables at the balance sheet date was:

Not past due date
Past due 1-30 days
Past due 31-90 days
Past due over 90 days

Group and Parent Company

2021 
£m

23.1 
1.5 
(0.1)
– 

24.5 

2020 
£m

17.3 
3.9 
0.7 
0.1 

22.0 

The Group believes that all amounts that are past due by more than 30 days that have an immaterial allowance for ECLs are still collectable in full 
based on historic payment behaviour and extensive analysis of customer credit risk. Based on the Group’s monitoring of customer credit risk,  
the Group believes that no significant allowance for ECLs is necessary in respect of trade receivables not past due. 

17. Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents

Group and Parent Company

2021 
£m 

198.6 

2020 
£m

36.8 

155155

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

18. Trade and other payables

Trade payables
Amounts owed to subsidiary undertakings
Other taxes and social security
Other payables
Accruals 
Advance payments from customers
Deferred Government grants

Group

Parent Company

2021 
£m

74.1 
– 
8.8 
46.6 
19.6 
3.8 
0.5 

153.4 

2020 
£m

48.8 
– 
6.8 
17.4 
15.1 
2.5 
0.5 

91.1 

2021 
£m

74.1 
7.7 
8.8 
46.6 
19.6 
3.8 
0.5 

161.1 

2020 
£m

48.8 
7.7 
6.8 
17.4 
15.1 
2.5 
0.5 

98.8 

In 2021 other payables includes accruals of £23.0 million for performance-related remuneration. There were no similar accruals in 2020.

19. Current tax 
The current tax asset of £0.4 million in the Group and the Parent Company (2020: Group and Parent Company: £0.0 million) represents the  
estimated amount of income taxes recoverable in respect of current and prior years.

20. Non-current liabilities – other payables

Deferred Government grants

Group and Parent Company

2021 
£m

3.2 

2020 
£m

3.7 

The Group has been awarded five Government grants relating to the extension of existing facilities and construction of new facilities. The grants, 
which have all been recognised as deferred income, are being amortised over the weighted average of the useful lives of the assets they have  
been used to acquire.

21. Employee benefits
Defined benefit pension plan
Scheme background
The Company sponsors a funded final salary defined benefit pension plan (the ‘scheme’) for qualifying employees. The scheme was closed to future 
accrual in 2008 and all remaining employees who are still members of the scheme are now members of the Company’s defined contribution scheme.

The scheme is administered by a separate Board of Trustees which is legally separate from the Company. The Trustees are composed of 
representatives of both the employer and employees. The Trustees are required by law to act in the interest of all relevant beneficiaries  
and are responsible for the investment policy with regard to the assets plus the day-to-day administration of the benefits.

156

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc21. Employee benefits continued
Defined benefit pension plan continued
UK legislation requires that pension schemes are funded prudently. The last funding valuation of the scheme was carried out by a qualified  
actuary as at 6 April 2020 and showed a deficit. The Company has agreed a schedule of contributions to the scheme which totalled £15.0 million.

The Company has a legal right to benefit from any surplus on the winding up of the scheme. The IAS 19 valuation at 1 January 2022 showed that the 
scheme has a surplus of £3.0 million. However, this surplus and the future-committed contributions would be subject to withholding tax at 35% prior 
to any refund to the Company. In accordance with accounting standards this withholding tax has been recognised as a liability and deducted from  
the valuation surplus creating an overall liability position of £2.4 million.

Profile of the scheme
The defined benefit pension obligation includes benefits for deferred members and current pensioners. At 1 January 2022, the scheme had no active 
members (2020: nil), 361 deferred members (2020: 380) and 283 pensioners (2020: 272). The scheme duration is an indicator of the weighted average 
time until benefit payments are made. For the scheme as a whole, the duration is approximately 19 years (2020: 18 years).

Investment strategy
The Company and Trustees have agreed a long-term strategy for reducing investment risk as and when appropriate. This includes a policy to hold 
sufficient cash and bond assets to cover the anticipated benefit payments for at least the next five years so as to improve the cashflow matching  
of the scheme’s assets and liabilities.

Risks to the scheme
By funding the defined benefit pension scheme the Company is exposed to the risk that the cost of meeting its obligations is higher than anticipated. 
This could occur for several reasons including:
 – Investment returns on the scheme assets could be lower than anticipated;
 – The level of price inflation may be higher than that assumed, resulting in higher payments from the scheme; or
 – Scheme members may live longer than assumed, for example due to advances in healthcare.

Defined benefit pension liability

Defined benefit obligation
Fair value of plan assets

Net defined benefit pension surplus/(liability) before IFRIC 14 adjustment
IFRIC 14 adjustment

Net defined benefit pension liability after IFRIC 14 adjustment

Group and Parent Company

2021 
£m

(132.5)
135.5 

3.0 
(5.4)

(2.4)

2020
£m

(143.4)
131.5 

(11.9)
– 

(11.9)

In accordance with IFRIC 14, the Group has considered that the net defined benefit pension surplus is limited to the present value of benefits available 
in the form of any future refunds from the plan (net of withholding tax) and also takes into account the adverse effect of the minimum funding 
requirement that the Group is committed to as at 1 January 2022. 

157157

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

21. Employee benefits (continued)
Defined benefit pension plan continued
Liability for defined benefit pension obligations
Changes in the present value of the defined benefit pension obligation are as follows:

Opening defined benefit pension obligation
Past service costs
Interest cost
Remeasurement (gains)/losses:
– changes in mortality assumptions
– changes in financial assumptions
– experience
Benefits paid

Closing defined benefit pension obligation

Changes in the fair value of plan assets are as follows:

Opening fair value of plan assets
Net interest on plan assets
Remeasurement gains 
Company special contribution
Benefits paid

Closing fair value of plan assets

The costs charged in the income statement are as follows:

Interest expense on net defined benefit pension liability

The amounts recognised in other comprehensive income are as follows:

Remeasurement gains/(losses) on defined benefit pension plans

158

Group and Parent Company

2021 
£m

143.4 
– 
1.8 

– 
(6.6)
(2.8)
(3.3)

132.5 

2020 
£m

127.6 
0.1 
2.5 

1.1 
19.2 
(3.4)
(3.7)

143.4 

Group and Parent Company

2021 
£m

131.5 
1.7 
3.1 
2.5 
(3.3)

135.5 

Group

2021 
£m

0.1 

Group

2021 
£m

7.1

2020 
£m

127.0 
2.5 
5.7 
– 
(3.7)

131.5 

2020 
£m

– 

2020 
£m

(11.2)

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc 
21. Employee benefits (continued)
Cumulative remeasurement gains and losses reported in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income since 28 December 2003,  
the transition date to adopted IFRSs, for the Group and the Parent Company are net losses of £24.2 million (2020: net losses of £31.3 million).

The fair value of the plan assets is as follows:

Equities   – UK

Bonds  

– Overseas
– Corporate
– Government
Cash and cash equivalents/other

Principal actuarial assumptions (expressed as weighted averages):

Discount rate
Future salary increases
Future pension increases
Rate of price inflation (RPI)

Rate of price inflation (CPI)

Group and Parent Company

2021 
£m

11.6 
22.6 
41.0 
52.1 
8.2 

135.5 

2020  
£m

21.5 
50.1 
19.6 
31.8 
8.5 

131.5 

Group and Parent Company

2021 

2020 

1.85%
n/a 
2.05-2.80%
3.30%

1.25%
n/a 
1.80-2.30%
2.85%

2.80%

 2.25%

In November 2020 the Government announced that RPI is to be aligned with CPIH (CPI with owner occupiers’ costs) from 2030.  
As a result the RPI assumption has been updated along with the assumed future gap between RPI and CPI.

159159

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTS 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

21. Employee benefits (continued)
Mortality assumption
Mortality in retirement is assumed to be in line with the S2PXA tables using CMI_2020 projections, though placing no weight on the 2020 data due  
to the inherent uncertainty over the longer-term implications of Covid-19, and a long-term rate of 1.25% per annum. Under these assumptions, 
pensioners aged 65 now are expected to live for a further 22.3 years (2020: 22.2 years) if they are male and 24.3 years (2020: 24.2 years) if they  
are female. Members currently aged 45 are expected to live for a further 23.6 years (2020: 23.6 years) from age 65 if they are male and for a  
further 25.8 years (2020: 25.7 years) from age 65 if they are female.

The sensitivities regarding the principal assumptions used to measure the scheme liabilities are set out below:

Discount rate
Inflation

Mortality rates

Change in assumption

0.1% increase
0.1% decrease

1 year increase

Impact on scheme liabilities

£2.7 million decrease
£1.5 million decrease

£5.3 million increase

If the commutation assumption were to be removed from the valuation the impact would be an increase in the scheme liabilities of £8.0 million.

The other demographic assumptions have been set having regard to latest trends in the scheme.

A triennial valuation of the scheme took place in April 2020 and was finalised during 2021. The outcome of that valuation showed a deficit in funding. 
This position was considered by the Trustees and the Company and a schedule of additional contributions of £2.5 million per year for six years, 
beginning in 2021, was agreed. This is to ensure that funding requirements are met over the medium term as the scheme works towards  
full de-risking.

Defined contribution pension plan
The Company also operates defined contribution pension schemes for other eligible employees. The assets of the schemes are held separately from 
those of the Group. The pension cost represents contributions payable by the Group and amounted to £22.4 million (2020: £24.9 million) in the year.

160

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc21. Employee benefits (continued)
Share-based payments – Group and Parent Company
The Group has established a Savings Related Share Option Scheme, an Executive Share Option Scheme and a Performance Share Plan.

The terms and conditions of the grants for these schemes are as follows, whereby all options are settled by physical delivery of shares:

Date of grant

Employees entitled Exercise price

Number of shares 
granted

Vesting conditions

£nil

248,922

£4.80

693,000

£nil

£nil

305,592

224,599

£5.00

598,225

£10.22

298,045

£10.56

3,285

£nil

£nil

146,174

133,271

235,857

361,853

Three years’ service, EPS annual compound growth of 
3-8% over RPI over those three years and TSR position 
relative to an appropriate comparator group
Three years’ service and EPS growth of 3-7% over RPI  
on average over those three years
Three years’ service, EPS annual compound growth of 
3-8% over RPI over those three years and TSR position 
relative to an appropriate comparator group
Three years’ service, EPS annual compound growth of 
1-4% over RPI over those three years and average annual 
ROCE of 15.5-17% over those three years
Three years’ service and EPS growth of 1-4% over RPI  
on average over those three years
Three years’ service and EPS growth of 1-7% over RPI  
on average over those three years
Three years’ service and EPS growth of 1-7% over RPI  
on average over those three years
Three years’ service, EPS annual compound growth of 
1-7% over RPI over those three years and average annual 
ROCE of 19-21.5% over those three years
Three years’ service, EPS average annual growth of 2-8% 
over RPI over those three years and average annual ROCE 
of 22-27% over those three years
Three years’ service and EPS growth of 2-8% over RPI  
on average over those three years
Three years’ service

Contractual life

10 years

10 years

10 years

10 years

10 years

10 years

10 years

10 years

10 years

10 years

3.5 years

Performance Share 
Plan 3

March 2012

Executive Share 
Option Scheme 16
Performance Share 
Plan 4

March 2013

March 2013

Performance Share 
Plan 5

March 2014

Executive Share 
Option Scheme 17
Executive Share 
Option Scheme 18
Executive Share 
Option Scheme 18a
Performance Share 
Plan 6

April 2014

March 2015

May 2015

March 2015

Performance Share 
Plan 7

March 2016

Senior 
executives

Senior 
employees
Senior 
executives

Senior 
executives

Senior 
employees
Senior 
employees
Senior 
employee
Senior 
executives

Senior 
executives

April 2016

April 2016

£10.88

Senior 
employees
All employees £8.70

Executive Share 
Option Scheme 19
Savings-Related 
Share Option  
Scheme 17
Performance Share 
Plan 8

May 2017

Executive Share 
Option Scheme 20

April 2017

Senior 
executives

Senior 
employees

£nil

206,404

£10.33

246,219

Three years’ service, EPS average annual growth of 5-11% 
over those three years and average annual ROCE of 
23-27% over those three years
Three years’ service and EPS growth of 5-11% on average 
over those three years

10 years

10 years

161161

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

21. Employee benefits (continued)

Date of grant

Employees entitled Exercise price

Number of shares 
granted

Vesting conditions

April 2017

All employees £8.07

403,560

Three years’ service

Contractual life

3.5 years

March 2018

Senior 
executives

£nil

190,943

March 2018

April 2018

£11.97

Senior 
employees
All employees £9.54

228,923

335,482

Three years’ service, EPS average annual growth of 5-11% 
over those three years and average annual ROCE of 
25-29% over those three years
Three years’ service and EPS growth of 5-11% on average 
over those three years
Three years’ service

10 years

10 years

3.5 years

April 2019

Senior 
executives

Senior 
employees

£nil

128,534

£18.30

140,913

Executive Share 
Option Scheme 22

April 2019

April 2019

All employees £14.84

230,604

Three years’ service, EPS average annual growth of 5-11% 
over those three years and average annual ROCE of 
24-28% over those three years
Three years’ service, EPS average annual growth of 5-11% 
over those three years and average annual ROCE of 
24-28% over those three years
Three years’ service

April 2020

All employees £14.24

239,673

Three years’ service

October 2020

Senior 
executives

£nil

166,366

November 2020 Senior 

£17.20

121,202

April 2021

April 2021

April 2021

employees
All employees £16.72

£nil

£nil

Senior 
executives
Senior 
executives

Senior 
employees

291,979

120,022

29,512

Three years’ service, EPS performance in FY2022, ROCE 
performance in FY2022 and two strategic objectives
Three years’ service, EPS performance in FY2022, ROCE 
performance in FY2022 and two strategic objectives
Three years’ service

10 years

10 years

3.5 years

Three years’ service, EPS performance in FY2023,  
ROCE performance in FY2023
Three years’ service

£22.63

120,994

Three years’ service, EPS performance in FY2023,  
ROCE performance in FY2023

10 years

10 years

3.5 years

3.5 years

10 years

10 years

10 years

Savings-Related 
Share Option  
Scheme 18
Performance Share 
Plan 9

Executive Share 
Option Scheme 21
Savings-Related 
Share Option  
Scheme 19
Performance Share 
Plan 10

Savings-Related 
Share Option  
Scheme 20
Savings-Related 
Share Option  
Scheme 21
Performance Share 
Plan 11
Executive Share 
Option Scheme 23
Savings-Related 
Share Option  
Scheme 22
Performance Share 
Plan 12
Performance Share 
Plan 12 (retained)

Executive Share Option 
Scheme 24

April 2021

162

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc21. Employee benefits (continued)
The number and weighted average exercise price of share options is as follows:

Outstanding at the beginning of the year
Lapsed during the year
Exercised during the year
Granted during the year
Outstanding at the end of the year

Exercisable at the end of the year

2021

2020

Weighted average 

Weighted average 

exercise price Number of options

exercise price Number of options

£6.07
£10.17
£7.11
£13.55
£7.15

£6.76

2,352,967 
(288,469)
(653,904)
562,507 
1,973,101

527,561

£7.81
£12.03
£7.03
£10.43
£6.07

£5.69

2,342,496 
(87,654)
(429,086)
527,211 
2,352,967 

721,628 

The options outstanding at 1 January 2022 have an exercise price in the range of £nil to £22.63 and have a weighted average contractual life  
of 5.4 years. The options exercised during the year had a weighted average market value of £23.94 (2020: £17.61). 

The fair value of services received in return for share options granted is measured by reference to the fair value of share options granted.  
The estimate of the fair value of the services received is measured based on the Black-Scholes model for all Savings-Related Share Option  
Schemes and Executive Share Option Schemes and for Performance Share Plan options granted from 2014 onwards. The fair value per  
option granted and the assumptions used in these calculations are as follows:

Fair value at grant date
Share price
Exercise price
Expected volatility
Option life
Expected dividend yield

Risk-free rate

2021

2020

Performance 
Share Plan 12  
April 2021

Performance 
Share Plan 12 
(retained)  
April 2021

Executive Share 
Option Scheme 24  
April 2021

Savings-Related 
Share Option 
Scheme 22 
April 2021

Performance 
Share Plan 11
October 2020

Executive Share 
Option Scheme 23
November 2020

Savings-Related 
Share Option 
Scheme 21
April 2020

£21.08
£22.72
£nil
49.17%
3 years
2.50%

0.15%

£21.08
£22.72
£nil
49.17%
3 years
2.50%

0.15%

£6.43
£22.63
£22.63
49.17%
3 years
2.50%

0.15%

£7.40
£20.89
£16.72
49.17%
3 years
2.50%

0.15%

£13.25
£14.07
£nil
45.81%
3 years
2.00%

£4.93
£17.20
£17.20
48.43%
3 years
2.00%

(0.05%)

(0.04%)

£5.19
£17.80
£14.24
38.02%
3 years
2.52%

0.12%

The expected volatility is based on historical volatility, adjusted for any expected changes to future volatility due to publicly available information.  
The historical volatility is calculated using a weekly rolling share price for the three-year period immediately prior to the option grant date.

163163

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

21. Employee benefits (continued)
The costs charged to the income statement relating to share-based payments were as follows:

Share options granted in 2017
Share options granted in 2018
Share options granted in 2019
Share options granted in 2020
Share options granted in 2021

Total expense recognised as employee costs

22. Provisions

Group and Parent Company

Balance at start of year
Additional provision in the year:
– ordinary
– exceptional
Utilised in year:
– ordinary
– exceptional
Provisions reversed during the year:
– ordinary
– exceptional

Balance at end of year

Included in current liabilities
Included in non-current liabilities

2021 
Dilapidations 
£m

2021 
National 
Insurance
£m

2021 
Redundancy
£m

2.7 

1.5 
– 

(0.4)
– 

(0.7)
– 

3.1 

2.0 
1.1 

3.1 

1.5 

1.6 
– 

(0.9)
– 

– 
– 

2.2 

1.6 
0.6 

2.2 

0.9 

– 
– 

(0.4)
– 

(0.3)
– 

0.2 

0.1 
0.1 

0.2 

2021 
Other
£m

2.3 

– 
– 

(0.2)
– 

(0.6)
– 

1.5 

0.5 
1.0 

1.5 

The provisions at the end of the year relate to ordinary or exceptional activity as follows:

Ordinary
Exceptional

164

2.9 
0.2 

3.1 

2.2 
– 

2.2 

0.1 
0.1 

0.2 

1.3 
0.2 

1.5 

2021 
Total 
£m

7.4 

3.1 
– 

(1.9)
– 

(1.6)
– 

7.0 

4.2 
2.8 

7.0 

6.5 
0.5 

7.0 

2020 
Dilapidations
£m

2.3 

1.2 
– 

(0.1)
– 

(0.7)
– 

2.7 

1.4 
1.3 

2.7 

2.5 
0.2 

2.7 

2020 
National 
Insurance
£m

2020 
Redundancy
£m

2.3 

1.1 

– 
– 

(0.2)
– 

(0.6)
– 

1.5 

1.4 
0.1 

1.5 

1.5 
– 

1.5 

10.6 
0.2 

(9.4)
(0.8)

(0.7)
(0.1)

0.9 

0.7 
0.2 

0.9 

0.8 
0.1 

0.9 

2021 
£m

– 
(1.0)
0.6 
1.2 
1.4 

2.2 

2020 
Other
£m

1.7 

2.1 
– 

(0.4)
– 

(1.1)
– 

2.3 

0.9 
1.4 

2.3 

2.1 
0.2 

2.3 

2020 
£m

0.2 
(0.2)
0.5 
0.4 
– 

0.9 

2020 
Total 
£m

7.4 

13.9 
0.2 

(10.1)
(0.8)

(3.1)
(0.1)

7.4 

4.4 
3.0 

7.4 

6.9 
0.5 

7.4 

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc22. Provisions continued
Dilapidation provisions have been made based on the future expected repair costs required to restore the Group’s leased buildings  
to their fair condition at the end of their respective lease terms, where it is considered a reliable estimate can be made.

National Insurance costs are provided in respect of future share options exercises.

Other provisions are largely in respect of onerous costs relating to closed shops where the lease has not yet expired.

The majority of all of the provisions are expected to be utilised within four years such that the impact of discounting would not be material.

23. Capital and reserves
Share capital 

In issue and fully paid at start of year – ordinary shares of 2p 
Issued on exercise of share options

Ordinary shares

2021 
Number

101,426,038 
470,983 

2020 
Number

101,155,901 
270,137 

101,897,021 

101,426,038

The holders of ordinary shares are entitled to receive dividends as declared from time to time and are entitled to one vote per share at meetings  
of the Company. 

During the year 470,983 shares (2020: 270,137) were issued as a result of the exercise of vested options granted to senior management under  
the Executive Share Option Scheme and the exercise of options under the Savings-Related Share Option Scheme. Options were exercised at  
an average price of £10.28 (2020: £8.23).

Share premium reserve
The share premium reserve relates to the proceeds received in excess of the nominal value of shares issued, net of any transaction costs.

Capital redemption reserve
The capital redemption reserve relates to the nominal value of issued share capital bought back by the Company and cancelled.

Own shares held
Deducted from retained earnings is £48.9 million (2020: £39.0 million) in respect of own shares held by the Greggs Employee Benefit Trust. The Trust, 
which was established during 1988 to act as a repository of issued Company shares, holds 375,694 shares (2020: 227,965 shares) with a market value 
at 1 January 2022 of £12.5 million (2020: £4.1 million) which have not vested unconditionally in employees. During the year the Trust purchased 330,693 
(2020: 25,600) shares for an aggregate consideration of £10.0 million (2020: £0.5 million) and sold 182,921 (2020: 203,992) shares for an aggregate 
consideration of £0.3 million (2020: £1.5 million).

165165

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED ACCOUNTS CONTINUED

23. Capital and reserves continued
Own shares held continued
The shares held by the Greggs Employee Benefit Trust can be purchased either by employees on the exercise of an option under the Greggs Executive 
Share Option Scheme, Greggs Savings-Related Share Option Scheme and Greggs Performance Share Plan or by the trustees of the Greggs Employee 
Share Scheme. The trustees have elected to waive the dividends payable on these shares.

Dividends
The following tables analyse dividends when paid and the year to which they relate:

2021 interim dividend

2021 
Per share 
pence

15p

2020 
Per share 
pence

– 

The special dividend, declared on 8 March 2022, amounts to 40.0 pence (£40.6 million) and the proposed final dividend in respect of 2021 amounts  
to 42.0 pence (£42.8 million). These dividends are not included as a liability in these accounts. 

2021 interim dividend

2021 
£m

15.3

2020 
£m

– 

24. Capital commitments
During the 52 weeks ended 1 January 2022, the Group entered into contracts to purchase property, plant and equipment  
and intangible assets for £16.3 million (2020: £8.5 million) which are expected to be settled in the following financial year.

25. Related parties
Identity of related parties
The Group has a related party relationship with its subsidiaries (see Note 13), Directors and executive officers and pension schemes.

Trading transactions with subsidiaries – Group
There have been no transactions between the Company and its subsidiaries or associates during the year (2020: none).

166

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plc25. Related parties continued
Trading transactions with subsidiaries – Parent Company

Dormant subsidiaries

Amounts owed to related parties

Amounts owed by related parties

2021 
£m

7.8 

2020 
£m

7.8 

2021 
£m

– 

2020 
£m

– 

The Greggs Foundation is also a related party and during the year the Company made a donation to the Greggs Foundation of £1.2 million  
(2020: £1.1 million), as well as passing on £0.1 million (2020: £0.3 million) raised from the sale of carrier bags and £0.3 million (2020: £0.2 million)  
raised from the sale of products. The Greggs Foundation holds 300,000 shares (2020: 300,000 shares) in Greggs plc and Richard Hutton,  
a Director of Greggs plc, is a trustee of the Greggs Foundation.

Transactions with key management personnel
Details of Directors’ shareholdings, share options, emoluments, pension benefits and other non-cash benefits can be found in the Directors’ 
remuneration report on pages 84 to 106. Summary information on remuneration of key management personnel is included in Note 5. 

26. Contingent asset
In October 2021 the Company issued formal legal proceedings against its insurer regarding a Covid-19 business interruption claim. An interim payment 
was received in January 2021 from the insurer in the sum of £2.5 million (this was recognised as income in the income statement for the 53 weeks 
ended 2 January 2021), representing the alleged limit of insurer’s liability. However, on taking legal advice, the Company believes that it is entitled  
to more than one such limit and is pursuing its claim in the High Court. The final quantum is not ascertainable at the date of these accounts. The 
Company anticipates participating with other claimants in a trial of preliminary legal issues which is due to be heard by the Court in June and July 
2022. In accordance with IAS 37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets, no amount has been recognised as at 1 January 2022, 
however a contingent asset is disclosed as it is considered more likely than not that the claim will result in an inflow of economic benefit.

167167

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSTEN-YEAR HISTORY 

Turnover (£m)
Total sales growth/(decline) 
Company-managed shop like-for-like 
sales growth/(decline)
Profit/(loss) before tax (PBT) excluding 
exceptional items (£m)
PBT margin excluding exceptional items 
Pre-tax exceptional credit/(charge) (£m)
Profit/(loss) on ordinary activities 
including exceptional items and before 
tax (£m)
Diluted earnings per share excluding 
exceptional items (pence)
Dividend per share declared (pence) 
Total shareholder return 
Capital expenditure (£m)
Return on capital employed (excluding 
exceptional items)
Number of shops in operation at year end

2012  
(as  
restated) 2

734.5
4.8% 

2014  
(as  
restated) 1,3

806.1
5.7%

2013

762.4
3.8% 

20151

835.7
3.7%

2016

894.2
7.0%

2017

960.0
7.4%

2018

1,029.3
7.2%

20195,7

1,167.9
13.5%

20201

20211

811.3 
(30.5%)

1,229.7 
51.6%

(2.7%)

(0.8%)

4.5% 

4.7%

4.2%

3.7%

2.9%

9.2%

(36.2%)

52.4%

50.9
6.9%
1.4 

41.3
5.4%
(8.1)

58.3
7.2%
(8.5)

73.1
8.7%
– 

80.3
9.0%
(5.2)

81.7
8.5%
(9.9)

89.8
8.7%
(7.2)

114.2
9.8%
(5.9)

(12.9)
(15.9%)
(0.8)

145.6 
11.8%
– 

52.4 

33.2 

49.7 

73.0

75.1

71.9

82.6

108.3

(13.7)

145.6 

38.3
19.5
(6.1%)
46.9 

21.3%
1,671 

30.6
19.5
0.6%
47.6 

16.4%
1,671 

43.4
22.0
69.7%
48.9 

22.4%
1,650 

55.8
48.64
87.1%
71.7

26.8%
1,698

60.8
31.0
(23.8%)
80.4

28.1%
1,764

63.5
32.3
47.5%
70.4

26.9%
1,854

70.3
35.7
(7.4%)
73.0

27.4%
1,953

89.7
46.96
87.5%
86.0

20.0%
2,050

(12.9)
–
(22.0%)
58.7

(2.4%)
2,078

114.3 
97.08
87.3%
57.7 

23.0%
2,181 

1   2014 and 2020 were 53 week years, impacting on total sales growth for that year and the year immediately following.
2   Restated following the adoption of IAS 19 (Revised).
3   Restated to include revenue in respect of franchise fit-out costs.
4  
5  
6  
7   Restated for a change in accounting policy relating to deferred tax.
8  

Includes a special dividend of 20.0 pence paid in 2015. 
IFRS 16 leases was implemented at the start of the financial year using the modified retrospective approach. Prior year comparatives have not been restated.
Includes a special dividend of 35.0 pence. The final dividend declared in respect of 2019 was cancelled as a cash preservation measure during the Covid-19 crisis.

 Includes a special dividend of 40.0p.

168

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcAll of the non-GAAP measures detailed above can be calculated from the GAAP measures included in the annual accounts with the exception  
of those detailed below.

Calculation of alternative performance measures
Like-for-like (LFL) sales growth – compares year-on-year cash sales in our company-managed shops, with a calendar year’s trading history  
and is calculated as follows:

Current year LFL sales
Prior year LFL sales

(Decline)/growth

LFL sales (decline)/growth percentage

Two-year LFL 
2021 v 2019
£m

981.5
1,015.0

(33.5)

(3.3%)

2021 
£m

981.5 
643.9 

337.6

52.4%

Return on capital employed – calculated by dividing profit before tax by the average total assets less current liabilities for the year.

Profit/(loss) before tax
Capital employed:

Opening
Closing

Average

Return on capital employed

2021
£m

145.6 

585.6
681.5

633.6

23.0%

Notional return on capital employed – calculated by dividing profit before tax by the average total assets less current liabilities for the  
year and taking into account the pre-agreed adjustments in respect of IFRS 16 used by the Remuneration Committee for determination  
of incentive outcomes (see page 102).

Profit before tax
Capital employed

Opening
Closing

Average

Return on capital employed

2021 
As reported  
£m

145.6 

IFRS 16 
adjustments 
£m

4.7 

(235.4)*
(245.9)*

586.5 
681.5

633.6 

23.0% 

2020 
£m

665.2 
1,042.2

(377.0)

(36.2%)

2020 
£m

(13.7)

576.8
585.6

581.2

(2.4%)

2021 
 Notional 
£m

150.3 

351.1 
435.6

393.3

38.2%

169169

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTS(Loss)/profit before tax

Capital employed
Opening
Closing

Average

Return on capital employed

2020 
As reported
£m

IFRS 16 
adjustments £m

(13.7) 

5.1 

(219.2)*
(235.3)*

576.8 
585.6 

581.2 

(2.4%)

2020
Notional
£m

(8.6)

357.6 
350.3 

354.0 

(2.4%)

* these adjustments are based on forecasts made on transition and therefore cannot be reconciled to the accounts

Ratio of IFRS 16 right-of-use charges on leased property assets to company-managed shop sales – calculated by dividing land  
and buildings right-of-use asset charges by company-managed shop turnover.

Company-managed shop turnover

Land and buildings right-of-use assets depreciation
Land and buildings right-of-use assets interest charge
Right-of-use asset charges

*as disclosed in the 2019 annual report and accounts

2021
£m

1,098.2

47.7
6.3
54.0

4.9%

2019*
£m

1,073.8

48.9
6.5
55.4

5.1%

Net cash inflow from operating activities after lease payments – calculated by deducting the repayment of principal of lease liabilities  
from net cash flow from operating activities.

Net cash inflow from operating activities 

Repayment of principal of lease liabilities

Net cash inflow from operating activities after lease payments

2021 
£m

285.5 

(49.0)

236.5 

2020 
£m

43.6 

(42.1)

1.5 

170

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSecretary and Advisers
Secretary
Jonathan D Jowett, LL.M. Solicitor

Registered Office
Greggs House 
Quorum Business Park
Newcastle upon Tyne 
NE12 8BU

Registered number
502851

Bankers
Barclays Bank plc
Barclays House
5 St Ann’s Street
Quayside
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE1 3DX

Auditors
RSM UK Audit LLP
1 St James’ Gate
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE1 4AD

Stockbrokers
UBS
5 Broadgate Circle
London
EC2M 2QS

Investec
2 Gresham Street
London
EC2V 7QP

Solicitors
Muckle LLP
Time Central
32 Gallowgate
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE1 4BF

Linklaters LLP
One Silk Street
London
EC2Y 8HQ

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

171171

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcSTRATEGIC REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORTACCOUNTSNOTES

172

Annual Report and Accounts 2021Greggs plcCBP011817

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