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Gusbourne PLC

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FY2017 Annual Report · Gusbourne PLC
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20160314_Annual_Report_Cover spot UV.pdf   1   17/05/2016   09:35

Gusbourne PLC

Report and financial statements 
for the year ended 31 December 2017

Contents

STRATEGIC REPORT

4  Chairman’s statement

8  Chief Executive’s review

16  Principal risks and uncertainties

DIRECTORS AND REPORT OF THE DIRECTORS

17  Board of Directors

20  Report of the Directors

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

24  Report of the independent auditors

29  Consolidated statement of comprehensive income

30  Consolidated statement of financial position

32  Consolidated statement of cash flows

33  Consolidated statement of changes in equity

34  Notes forming part of the financial statements

64  Parent company financial statements

71  Company information

“ 

Gusbourne is dedicated to the production 
of premium sparkling wines from grapes grown 

exclusively in its own vineyards ”

 
 
 
Strategic Report
Chairman’s statement

2017 has been another successful 
year of growth for the Group. 
The Gusbourne business was 
established fourteen years ago 
in 2004 and has been selling its 
award-winning English sparkling 
wines since 2010. Revenue 
has continued to grow in line 
with product availability and in 
2017 our revenue amounted to 
£998,000, an increase of 56 per 
cent (2016: 35%) over the prior 
year. Gusbourne remains one of 
England’s premier sparkling wine 
businesses and is focused at the 
luxury end of the market.

Highlights of 2017 include:

•  Revenue growth of 56% (2016: 

35%).

•  A successful harvest in 

September and October 2017 
in terms of both yield and 
quality, which has added to our 
wine stocks for future sale. The 
harvest included the first fruit 
from the vines planted on our 
sites in 2015 and the second 
harvest from vines planted on 
our sites in 2014.

•  Strong growth in exports 

which represented 25% of sales 
(2016: 14%). The Company now 
exports to 16 countries.

•  Continued success in 

major international wine 
competitions, including being 
awarded the IWSC ‘English 
Wine Producer of the Year’ for 
2017, the third time Gusbourne 
has received this award in the 
last five years.

•  Gusbourne’s cellar door 
operation (the “Nest”) at 
Gusbourne’s winery and estate 
in Kent opened for business 
in July 2017 and provides 
tours, wine tastings and event 
hosting to a growing number 
of visitors. 

•  Ongoing investment in the 
Group’s growing asset base 
including vineyards, wine 
inventories, buildings, plant 
and machinery and the award 
winning Gusbourne brand. 

I should like to express my sincere 
thanks for the dedicated efforts 
of our employees, our loyal 
customers as well as the support 
of our shareholders in helping the 
Group achieve another successful 
year of growth and development 
in the business.

Andrew Weeber

Chairman

“In 2017 our 

revenue amounted 
to £998,000, an 
increase of 56% 

”

4

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Gusbourne’s cellar door operation (the “Nest”) 
provides tours, tastings and event hosting.
5 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017A successful harvest in September and October 
2017 in terms of both yield and quality has 
added to our wine stocks for future sale.

Chief Executive’s review

The results for 2017 reflect 
another successful year of growth 
and development for the Group in 
line with our long term strategic 
development plans. Revenue of 
£998,000 (2016: £640,000) is 
up 56% (2016: 35%) on the prior 
year and we continue to widen 
our distribution channels both 
in the UK and overseas. Exports 
were particularly strong and 
represented 25% (2016: 14%) of 
our revenues. This has been an 
area of significant focus over the 
last year and I am delighted to 
report that Gusbourne is now 
distributed to 16 countries around 
the world.

The Gusbourne sparkling wine 
products continue to remain at 
the luxury end of the English 
sparkling wine market and we 
are committed to maintaining 
this premium position. We are 
delighted that the quality of 
our products has also been 
recognised in the United States, 
an important contributor to our 
export sales, with a number 
of prestigious awards for our 
sparkling wines. 

2017 also saw the launch of the 
Nest, Gusbourne’s new cellar 
door and tasting room. Situated 
amongst our vineyards in Kent 
this new facility allows us to fully 
engage with our customers, 
encouraging them to enjoy the 
vineyards, visit the winery and 
taste the wines.

Activities

Gusbourne PLC (“the Company”) 
is engaged, through its wholly 
owned subsidiary Gusbourne 
Estate Limited (together the 
“Group”), in the production 
and distribution of a range 
of high quality and award-
winning English sparkling wines 
from grapes grown in its own 
vineyards in Kent and West 
Sussex. The majority of the 
Group’s vineyards are located at 
its freehold estate at Appledore 
in Kent where the winery is also 
based. The Group now has a total 
of 231 acres of vineyards with 
the first plantings dating back 
to 2004 with the most recent 
plantings in 2015. 

Gusbourne Wines

Gusbourne is dedicated to 
the production of premium 
sparkling wines from grapes 
grown exclusively in its own 
vineyards. Our processes, both in 
establishing and maintaining the 
vineyards and in making wine, 
continue to follow the rigorous 
principles of careful site selection 
and attention to detail in all 
aspects of viticulture and wine 
production. An integral part of 
the Group’s approach is to age 
its traditional method sparkling 
wines for as long as is necessary 
for the wines to meet optimum 
maturity. The average production 
cycle for the wines is four years 
from harvest to sale.

“Exports were 

particularly strong 
and represented 
25% of our 
revenues

”

8

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Recent awards 

2017 was another year of success 
for Gusbourne at international 
wine competitions resulting in 36 
medals including 8 gold medals 
and 2 trophies. Our flagship wine, 
the Gusbourne Blanc de Blancs 
2013, was particularly successful, 
achieving gold medals in 5 
different competitions.

In May 2018, Gusbourne was 
awarded 4 titles at the inaugural 
Harper’s Wine Stars of England 
competition including ‘Best 
Sparkling Wine’, ‘Best Still Wine’, 
‘Best Design’ and overall ‘Star 
of England’. The Gusbourne 
Sparkling Rosé 2014 also won a 
gold medal at the Drinks Business 
Global Rosé Masters competition.

In the United States, Gusbourne 
became the first English wine 
to win a double Gold medal at 
the TEXSOM awards in March 
2017 (one of the most influential 
wine competitions in the United 
States) for the Gusbourne Blanc 
de Blancs 2013 and Gusbourne 
Brut Reserve 2013 which also 
won the Best in Class trophy.

In May 2017, Gusbourne won 
another double Gold at the 
International Wine Challenge 
as well as a double Gold at the 
International Wine and Spirits 
Competition (IWSC) for the 
Gusbourne Blanc de Blancs 2012 
and Gusbourne Blanc de Blancs 
2013. In May 2017 Gusbourne 
was also awarded a Platinum 
medal at the Decanter World 
Wine Awards (“DWWA”) 2017 for 
the Gusbourne Pinot Noir 2015, 
claiming consecutive Best English 
Red Wine trophies.

The 2017 awards season culminated 
with Gusbourne winning the trophy 
for ‘English Wine Producer of the 
Year’ by the IWSC. This is the third 
time Gusbourne has been awarded 
this trophy in the past five years.

Development strategy

Meeting growing customer 
demand for the Gusbourne 
wines requires careful long-term 
planning and key elements of the 
Group’s development strategy 
include:

•  Continuing to produce wines 
of exceptional quality from 
grapes grown in our own 
vineyards;

•  The ongoing development and 
evolution of the award winning 
Gusbourne brand;

•  The further development of 
the Company’s distribution 
channels, including the 
promotion of exports as a 
significant contributor to sales;

•  The promotion of the 
Company’s cellar door 
operation at the Company’s 
winery in Kent. This allows 
visitors to enjoy vineyard and 
winery tours and taste our 
award-winning wines and also 
helps to promote a closer and 
more direct relationship with 
our customers; and

•  The investment in additional 
plant and machinery to keep 
pace with production growth.

2017 harvest

Our 2017 harvest took place 
during September and October, 
with favourable growing 
conditions resulting in our earliest 
ever start date. The quality of 
the grapes was excellent, with 
optimum levels of natural sugar 
and acidity, both of which met our 
own exacting quality standards. 
The high quality of grapes 
harvested in the year bodes 
well for 2017 becoming another 
great vintage for Gusbourne. 
Yield volumes were good and in 
line with expectations and the 
resulting wine production has 
added further to our inventory 
levels for sale in future years.

Results for the year

Revenue for the year amounted 
to £998,000 (2016: £640,000), 
an increase of 56% over the prior 
year. Whilst these sales continue 
to reflect limited stock availability 
at this time, they do represent a 
consecutive like for like growth in 
the sale of Gusbourne wines since 
2013. Administrative expenses of 
£1,759,000 (2016: £1,385,000), 
including depreciation of 
£479,000 (2016: £357,000) 
reflect continuing investment in 
the development and growth of 
the business and the Gusbourne 
brand in particular.

9 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Chief Executive’s review continued

EBITDA for the year was a loss of 
£690,000 (2016: £802,000). The 
operating loss for the year after 
depreciation and amortisation 
was £1,169,000 (2016: £1,159,000). 
The loss before tax was 
£1,638,000 (2016: £1,528,000) 
after net finance costs of 
£469,000 (2016: £369,000).

These planned losses continue 
to be in line with expectations 
and the long-term development 
strategy of the Group.

Balance Sheet

The changes in the Group’s 
balance sheet during the year 
reflect expenditure on the ongoing 
investment in, and development 
of, the Group’s business, net of 
income from wine sales. This 
expenditure includes the ongoing 
investment in the vineyards 
established in West Sussex and 
Kent between 2014 and 2015. This 
investment in vineyards is reflected 
in capital expenditure during the 
year of £86,000 (2016: £338,000).

In addition, the Group invested in 
additional plant and equipment 
for the vineyards and the winery 
amounting to £607,000 (2016: 
£364,000) and in buildings of 
£1,090,000 (2016: £414,000). Total 
assets at 31 December 2017 of 
£17,466,000 (2016: £14,621,000) 
include freehold land and buildings 
of £6,539,000 (2016: £5,543,000), 
vineyards of £3,260,000 (2016: 
£3,256,000), inventories of 
wine stocks amounting to 

£3,484,000 (2016: £2,247,000), 
and £1,464,000 of cash (2016: 
£1,123,000). Intangible assets of 
£1,007,000 (2016: £1,007,000) 
arose on the acquisition of the 
Gusbourne Estate business on 
27 September 2013.

other borrowings and convertible 
bonds. Loans, other borrowings 
and convertible bonds at 31 
December 2017 amount in total 
to £4,778,000 (2016: £6,537,000) 
and represent 39% of total equity 
(2016: 83%).

The Group’s net tangible assets 
at 31 December 2017 amount to 
£11,323,000 (2016: £6,825,000) 
and represent 92% of total 
equity (2016: 87%). Net tangible 
assets per share at 31 December 
2017 were 28.8 pence per share 
(2016: 28.9 pence per share). It 
is important to note that these 
net tangible assets figures do 
not necessarily reflect underlying 
asset values, in particular in 
respect of the Group’s inventories, 
which are reported at the lower 
of cost and net realisable value. 
These inventories are expected 
to grow significantly until the 
Group reaches full production 
maturity, bearing in mind the 
long production cycle in relation 
to sparkling wine and related 
vineyard establishment. The 
anticipated underlying surplus of 
net realisable value over cost of 
these wine inventories, which is 
not reflected in these accounts 
and in the net tangible assets per 
share quoted above, will become 
an increasingly significant factor 
of the Group’s asset base as the 
inventories continue to grow.

Financing

The Group’s activities are financed 
by shareholders equity, loans, 

On 29 June 2017, the Company 
completed an Open Offer with 
existing shareholders, which was 
underwritten by the Company’s 
principal shareholder Lord 
Ashcroft KCMG PC, to raise 
proceeds of £4.2m (before 
expenses). The Company 
simultaneously announced 
a short-term loan from Lord 
Ashcroft KCMG PC of £1,000,000 
which was offset against Lord 
Ashcroft KCMG PC’s subscription 
under the Open Offer. The 
proceeds from this loan and 
the Open Offer were applied 
towards working capital and 
capital expenditure in line with the 
Company’s long-term strategic 
plan. 

On 29 June 2017 the Company 
also announced that the Share 
Capital Reduction to subdivide 
each of the Company’s existing 
Ordinary shares of 50p each into 
one Ordinary share of 1 pence and 
one Deferred share of 49 pence, 
was now effective.

On 30 June 2017, the Company 
announced a Conversion Offer 
to Bondholders to apply to 
convert their Bonds into new 
Ordinary shares in the Company 
at the Issue Price of 40p. On 

10

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 20171 August 2017, the Company 
announced that it had received 
final acceptances in respect 
of 5,136,662 Conversion Offer 
Shares, which represents a 
conversion of approximately 
46 per cent of the outstanding 
Bonds and a Conversion Value 
of approximately £2.05 million, 
improving the strength of the 
Company’s balance sheet through 
reduced borrowings. Following 
the admission on 2 August 2017, 
the Company has 39,366,984 
Ordinary 1p shares trading on AIM. 

On 31 May 2018, the Company 
announced that it is intended to 
arrange a subscription of new 
Ordinary shares in the Company 
with Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC and 
other investors, which is expected 
to proceed by 31 July 2018 (the 
Subscription). The proceeds from 
the Subscription will continue to 
be applied towards working capital 
and capital expenditure in line with 
the Company’s long-term strategic 
plan.

In order to meet immediate 
working capital requirements, 
the Company entered into an 
agreement on 31 May 2018 with 
Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC to receive 
an unsecured loan of £1,000,000 
(the “Loan Agreement”) which 
is intended to be repaid in full, 
through conversion into new 
Ordinary shares as part of the 
Subscription, when it concludes. 
The loan carries interest for a 
period of 3 months following the 
date of the loan agreement at the 

rate of 7% per annum above the 
base rate as varied from time to 
time by Barclays Bank plc, and 
thereafter at 10% per annum. 

Under the terms of the Loan 
Agreement, if the Subscription 
does not proceed, or if the 
subscription price is not agreed 
between the Company and Lord 
Ashcroft by 31 July 2018, the loan 
and interest will become repayable 
on demand subject to such 
repayment not being in breach of 
the Company’s existing banking 
facilities or if such repayment 
caused the Company to be unable 
to meet its creditors as they fall 
due.

The Group’s bank loan of 
£2,025,000 is due for repayment 
in full in September 2018. While 
discussions with the bank are 
ongoing, as at the date of signing 
these financial statements, no 
extension to the loan agreement or 
refinancing had been agreed. 

In the event that the bank was not 
prepared to refinance this secured 
debt, or if further funding could 
not be obtained, Lord Ashcroft 
KCMG PC has confirmed that he 
would be prepared to provide 
secured debt funding for a period 
of at least 12 months to replace 
Gusbourne PLC’s secured bank 
debt on terms to be agreed.

The achievement of the Group’s 
long-term development strategy 
will depend on the raising of 
further equity and/or debt funds 

to achieve those goals. The 
production of premium quality 
wine from new vineyards is, by its 
very nature, a long-term project. 
It takes four years to bring a 
vineyard into full production and 
a further four years to transform 
these grapes into Gusbourne’s 
premium sparkling wine. 
Additional funding will be sought 
by the Company over the coming 
few years to fund ongoing growth 
in the Company’s operations 
and asset base, in line with its 
development strategy.

Outlook

The growing season in 2018 has 
started slightly later than last year, 
due to a cold start to the year, 
but warm spring weather has led 
to strong even growth and high 
potential fruitfulness. The vines 
will remain subject to the normal 
seasonal climatic and disease risks 
throughout the remaining part of 
the growing season.

Good yields from the 2017 harvest 
have allowed us to significantly 
increase our wine stocks for future 
sales. The Company continues to 
make steady progress in line with 
its long term strategic plans and 
looks forward to reporting further 
progress in the current year.

Finally, I would like to thank all our 
employees for their hard work, 
dedication, and attention to detail 
in applying their considerable skills 
and talents to the production and 
sale of our award-winning wines. 

11 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Chief Executive’s review continued

Principal risks and 
uncertainties

Details of these are shown on 
page 16.

Charlie Holland

Chief Executive

12

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Key Performance Indicators

Years ended 31 December

Sales

Gross profit percentage

EBITDA*

Investment in tangible assets by year

Investment in vineyard establishment

Investment in freehold land and buildings

Investment in plant, machinery, vehicle and other equipment

Investment in property, plant and equipment

Increase in inventories

Total investment in tangible assets

At 31 December

Net assets

Freehold land and buildings

Vineyards

Plant, machinery, vehicle and other equipment

Total non-current assets

Inventories

Net working capital (current receivables less current payables)

Cash

Net tangible assets before debt

Bonds, loans and other borrowings

Net tangible assets

Goodwill

Net assets and equity

Key balance sheet ratios

2017 
£’000

998

62%

2016 
£’000

640

34%

2015 
£’000

473

31%

2014 
£’000

434

17%

 (690)

 (802)

 (856)

 (786)

86

1,090

607

1,783

1,237

3,020

2017 
£’000

 6,539 

 3,260 

 1,431 

 11,230 

 3,484 

 (77)

 1,464 

 16,101 

 (4,778)

 11,323 

 1,007 

 12,330 

338

414

364

1,116

536

1,652

2016 
£’000

 5,543 

 3,256 

 1,131 

 9,930 

 2,247 

 62 

 1,123 

 13,362 

 (6,537)

 6,825 

 1,007 

 7,832 

786

664

473

1,923

276

2,199

588

14

145

747

125

872

2015 
£’000

2014 
£’000

 5,198 

 2,972 

 1,001 

 9,171 

 1,711 

 95 

 1,328 

 12,305 

 (3,952)

 8,353 

 1,007 

 9,360 

 4,578 

 2,236 

 715 

 7,529 

 1,435 

 (123)

 1,842 

 10,683 

 (3,866)

 6,817 

 1,007 

 7,824 

Net tangible assets as a percentage of total equity

Gearing (Debt as percentage of equity)

92%

39%

87%

83%

89%

42%

87%

49%

Number of shares in issue

 39,366,986 

 23,639,762 

 23,639,762 

 17,853,276 

Net tangible assets per share (pence)

 28.8 

 28.9 

 35.3 

 38.2 

* EBITDA means profit from operations/(loss from operations) before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation.

13 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017In 2017 Gusbourne won the trophy for “English 
Wine Producer of the Year” from the International 
Wine and Spirit Competition (“IWSC”).

Gusbourne continues to enjoy success in major 
international wine competitions including a number of 
prestigious awards in the United States, an exciting new 
market for our sparkling wines.

Principal risks and uncertainties

Financing

The Group plans to raise further 
equity and/or debt funds in 
the future to fund the Group’s 
development strategy over the 
coming years, through the issue 
of Gusbourne PLC shares and/or 
the raising of debt finance. Such 
funding may not be achieved 
and additional shares may have 
a dilutive effect on existing 
shareholders.

Mitigation: The Group’s senior 
management team has carefully 
developed its long term business 
planning processes in support of 
any such new investment and the 
Group benefits from a loyal and 
supportive shareholder base.

Climate change

The Directors believe that 
climatic conditions in the South 
of England in recent years have 
generally been favourable to 
the growing of grapes used 
in sparkling wine production. 
However grape yields can be 
affected by certain adverse 
weather patterns such as late 
frosts and lack of sunshine during 
the flowering period. These 
climatic impacts can be quite 
localised. Please also refer to the 
paragraph (“Crop disease”) below.

Mitigation: The Group’s 
strategy to mitigate this risk is 
to monitor the micro climate in 
its existing vineyards through 
the use of temperature loggers 

16

and weather stations, with 
particular regard to late frosts, 
so that appropriate action can 
be promptly taken with the use 
of specialist frost prevention 
equipment. The Group has also 
mitigated this risk by planting 
vines on carefully selected 
sites in both West Sussex and 
Kent which are each subject to 
separate climatic conditions.

Crop disease

Commercial viticulture is a 
farming system prone to disease 
pressures. The relatively cool 
climate of the UK can exacerbate 
these pressures. While there 
is no significant pressure from 
fatal diseases threatening vine 
growing in the UK at present, 
there are certain diseases which 
may reduce yield under adverse 
climatic circumstances.

Mitigation: These risks can 
be mitigated through good 
husbandry and management 
practices. Please also refer to 
the paragraph “Climate change” 
above.

Competition

With the anticipated continuing 
growth in vineyard plantings in the 
South of England, the supply of 
English sparkling wine is likely to 
continue to increase and provide 
increased competition from other 
suppliers. This may adversely 
affect retail prices of English 
sparkling wine and the assumed 

levels of pricing in the Group’s 
development strategy may not be 
achieved. The English sparkling 
wine industry may also face 
stronger competition from similar 
overseas products, which could 
also adversely affect the retail 
prices of the Gusbourne wines.

Mitigation: The Group’s 
strategy remains to produce 
the highest quality products 
and develop the Gusbourne 
brand with related support to 
attract and retain customer 
loyalty. The Group’s strategy to 
develop exports as a significant 
contribution to sales will also 
mitigate this competitive risk in 
the UK market.

EU Referendum

Following the result of the EU 
referendum there is some general 
uncertainty regarding the impact 
of this result on companies 
operating in the UK.

Although the future relationship 
between the United Kingdom and 
the European Union is currently 
unclear, reduced access to EU 
labour could cause industry 
wage expenditure to rise, putting 
pressure on margins. 

The strategic report on pages 4 
to 16 has been approved by the 
Board and signed on its behalf by:

Charlie Holland

Chief Executive Officer

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Board of Directors 

Andrew Weeber BSc, MB ChB, 
FCS, Non-Executive Chairman
Member of the Audit, 
Remuneration and Nomination 
Committees
After graduating from the 
University of Stellenbosch in 
1968 with a BSC in Biochemistry 
& Physiology, Andrew continued 
to a Bachelor of Medicine and 
Surgery. He specialised at the 
University of Cape Town, and was 
awarded his FCS in Trauma and 
Orthopaedic Surgery in 1984.

Andrew went on to pursue a 
career spanning more than 20 
years practising as a consultant 
orthopaedic surgeon in South 
Africa and the United Kingdom, 
whilst simultaneously pursuing 
his entrepreneurial interests. 
In 1986 he co-founded, and 
successfully exited, the 247-bed 
private Vergelegen Mediclinic 
Hospital, near Cape Town. In 1988 
Andrew’s interest in wine and 
biochemistry led him to acquire 
a 50% stake in a Robertson 
wine estate. He sold the estate 
in 1991 and moved to the United 
Kingdom in 1992.

In the United Kingdom, he 
developed an orthopaedic unit 
within the Friarage Hospital in 
North Yorkshire. He oversaw 
its growth to a regional 
specialisation centre, employing 
21 surgeons. During this time, 
Andrew was appointed to the 
Medical Committee of the 
Football Association of England. 

Andrew retired from medicine 
in 2004 and focused on his 
personal business interests, 
primarily the development of 
the Gusbourne Estate; a project 
which he had established a 
year earlier on his 500 acre 
Estate in Kent. The first vintage 
was released in 2010 to critical 
acclaim and received numerous 
awards. This firmly established 
Gusbourne Estate’s position 
at the forefront of premium 
English wine. Andrew is a key 
opinion leader in the English wine 
industry, and is closely involved 
with the English Wine Producers 
Association.

Andrew has held several 
board memberships, including 
6 years at the 15,000 acre 
Alpheus Williams & Son Timber 
Corporation, until its successful 
acquisition by the SAPP 1 Group.

Mike Paul,  
Non-Executive Deputy 
Chairman
Member of the Audit, 
Remuneration and Nomination 
Committees
Mike joined the board on 
26 October 2016 and works 
closely with Andrew Weeber 
in his role as Chairman. Mike is 
particularly involved in the sales 
and marketing function of the 
business and will help further 
develop the distribution of 
Gusbourne’s premium sparkling 
wines both in the UK and in 
additional overseas markets 

as the Company’s production 
volumes increase over the 
coming years. He is also closely 
involved with Wine GB, the 
organisation that represents UK 
wine producers.

Mike is currently a director of 
the Millione Foundation Limited 
and has worked in the wine 
industry for over thirty years. 
Having received a postgraduate 
Diploma in Business Studies, he 
became the Managing Director 
of the premium wine agency 
Percy Fox, representing a number 
of luxury wine brands. In 1990 
Mike became European Director 
responsible for the development 
of Southcorp’s business in 
Europe. He led Southcorp to 
become a major player in the UK 
wine market with brands such as 
Penfolds and Lindemans. In 2002 
Mike was appointed Managing 
Director of Western Wines (UK), 
a leading importer of South 
African, Chilean and Italian wines, 
and owner of the leading South 
African brand, Kumala. 

Charlie Holland BA, BSc, 
Chief Winemaker and Chief 
Executive Officer
Charlie, who has been head 
of wine making at Gusbourne 
for over five years, joined the 
board in October 2016 as Chief 
Winemaker and Chief Executive 
Officer. He is responsible for 
winemaking at Gusbourne but 
also represents the Company 
as its Chief Executive Officer 

17 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Board of Directors (continued) 

and manages the day to day 
running of the business in 
conjunction with Jon Pollard and 
other members of the executive 
team in what remains a highly 
collaborative and relatively flat 
organisation. 

Charlie holds a degree in 
marketing and a BSc in 
Viticulture and Oenology from 
Plumpton College. He has held 
a number of overseas wine 
making positions including in 
France, Germany, Australia, New 
Zealand and California. Prior to 
joining Gusbourne Charlie was 
winemaker for four years at 
Ridgeview, a well-known English 
sparkling wine producer.

Jon Pollard, BSc, 
Chief Vineyard Manager and 
Chief Operating Officer
Jon has been the vineyard 
manager at the Gusbourne Estate 
since the first vines were planted 
twelve years ago in 2004. He 
joined the board in 26 October 
2016 as Chief Vineyard Manager 
and Chief Operating Officer. He 
is responsible for Gusbourne’s 
vineyards and works closely with 
Charlie Holland on the day to day 
operations of the business.

Jon holds an honours degree 
in general agriculture from the 
University of Aberdeen and is 
also a graduate in wine studies 
from Plumpton College. He has 
worked closely with Andrew 
Weeber over the past twelve 

years to establish the vineyards 
which are widely regarded as 
some of the best in the country in 
terms of both grape quality and 
yield. Jon supervises the vineyard 
operations in both Kent and West 
Sussex and works closely with 
the Chief Winemaker to ensure 
the quality and consistency of the 
final product.

Lord Arbuthnot PC, 
Non–Executive Director
Chairman of the Remuneration 
and Nomination Committees 
and member of the Audit 
Committee
James Arbuthnot was a 
Conservative MP for 28 years and 
served as Minister for Defence 
Procurement, Chief Whip and 
Chairman of the Defence Select 
Committee. He was appointed to 
the House of Lords in 2015.

James is the Chairman of the 
Information Assurance Advisory 
Council, and of the Nuffield Trust 
for the Forces of the Crown, and 
a Senior Associate Fellow of the 
Royal United Services Institution 
(RUSI).

He is chairman of the Advisory 
Board of the defence company 
Thales (UK), a senior consultant 
of SC Strategy Ltd and an adviser 
to Babcock International, Pure 
Storage and other companies. He 
is Chairman of Susan Greenfield’s 
Neuro-Bio Ltd, a company 
conducting ground-breaking 
research into Alzheimer’s Disease.

Paul Bentham, Non-Executive 
Director
Member of the Audit, 
Remuneration and Nomination 
Committees
Paul is the founder and currently 
a Non-Executive Director of 
Retail Merchant Group Ltd. With 
a background in card payment 
services and retail banking 
projects he was the founder 
and previously the Executive 
Chairman of Cardsave UK Ltd. 
He is also engaged in various 
commercial and residential 
property projects, including 
investment-grade office and 
warehouse sites.

Matthew Clapp BA, MBA, 
Non–Executive Director
Member of the Audit, 
Remuneration and Nomination 
Committees
Matthew is non-executive 
Chairman of Shutdown 
Maintenance Services Ltd, a 
director of MDC Consulting 
Limited and a committee 
member for The Square Mile 
Salute, an annual fundraising 
event, designed to promote 
philanthropy in the city of 
London and raise money for a 
selection of charities. Matthew 
also consults for financial 
services firm, Levendi Investment 
Management.

Matthew has worked in the 
markets for high end real estate 
developments, private members 

18

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017clubs and financial services for 
over a decade.

Ian Robinson BA, FCA, 
Non–Executive Director
Chairman of the Audit 
Committee and member of the 
Remuneration and Nomination 
Committees
Ian is currently non–executive 
Deputy Chairman of Jaywing 
Plc, an AIM listed agency and 
consulting business specialising in 
data science, and a non-executive 
director of TLA Worldwide Plc, an 
AIM listed athlete representation 
and sports marketing business. 
He is non-executive Chairman 
of LT Pub Management Plc, a 
privately owned pub and leisure 
asset management business. He 
is also a director of a number of 
other privately owned businesses.

Previously he was chief financial 
officer of Carlisle Group’s UK 
staffing and facilities services 
operations. He has held other 
senior financial appointments 
both in the UK and overseas. 
He is a Fellow of the Institute 
of Chartered Accountants in 
England & Wales, having trained 
with Peat, Marwick, Mitchell & Co 
(now KPMG) in London.

19 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Report of the Directors
for the year ended 31 December 2017

The Directors present their 
report together with the audited 
financial statements for the year 
ended 31 December 2017.

The Directors have put in 
place appropriate governance 
structures and provide 
information which would be 
expected for companies listed on 
the Alternative Investment Market 
of the London Stock Exchange. 
However, the Company is not 
required to comply with the UK 
Corporate Governance Code 
(the “Code”), as published by 
the Financial Reporting Council, 
so this report does not describe 
compliance with or departures 
from the Code.

Results and dividends

The consolidated statement of 
comprehensive income is set out 
on page 29 and shows the result 
for the year. No dividend was 
declared (December 2016: £Nil).

Principal activities

Directors

The principal activities of 
Gusbourne PLC (“the Company”) 
and its subsidiaries (“the Group”) 
comprise the production, sale 
and distribution of English 
sparkling wine.

The Directors of the Company 
during the year were as follows:

Andrew Weeber 
(Non-Executive Chairman)

Review of the business and 
future developments

A review of the business together 
with an indication of future 
developments is given in the 
Chairman’s statement on page 
4 and in the Chief Executive’s 
review on pages 8 to 12. Principal 
risks and uncertainties are shown 
on page 16.

Post balance sheet events

Details of post balance sheet 
events are shown in note 25 to 
the financial statements.

Mike Paul  
(Non-Executive Deputy 
Chairman)

Charlie Holland  
(Chief Executive Officer)

Jon Pollard  
(Chief Operating Officer)

Lord Arbuthnot PC  
(Non-Executive Director)

Paul Bentham 
(Non-Executive Director)

Matthew Clapp  
(Non-Executive Director)

Ian Robinson 
(Non-Executive Director)

20

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017The beneficial interest of Directors who held office at 31 December 2017 in the share capital of the 
Company are shown below:

Ordinary shares 

Andrew Weeber

Paul Bentham

Ian Robinson

Lord Arbuthnot PC

Matthew Clapp

Jon Pollard

Charlie Holland

Mike Paul

Dec 2017
(of 1 pence each)
Number  Percentage

Dec 2016
(of 50 pence each)

Number

Percentage

2,722,221

855,036

439,419

56,360

56,360

42,186

42,000

27,472

6.9%

2.2%

1.1%

0.1%

0.1%

0.1%

0.1%

0.1%

2,722,221

855,036

114,019

20,000

20,000

129

-

-

11.5%

3.6%

0.5%

0.1%

0.1%

<0.1%

0%

0%

Corporate governance

The Remuneration Committee 
comprises Lord Arbuthnot PC 
(Chairman), Andrew Weeber, 
Paul Bentham, Matthew Clapp, 
Ian Robinson and Mike Paul 
and meets at least twice a year 
and at such other times as the 
Chairman of the Committee 
requires. The Committee 
considers all material elements 
of the remuneration policy to 
ensure that remuneration is 
sufficient to attract, retain and 
motivate Executive Directors 
and senior management of the 
quality required to manage 
the Group successfully. This 
is performed with reference 
to independent remuneration 
research and professional advice. 
The Committee recommends 

to the Board the framework 
for the remuneration packages 
of the individual Executive 
Directors. The Board is then 
responsible for implementing the 
recommendations although no 
Director is involved in deciding 
his own remuneration. The 
Directors are not permitted to 
vote on their own terms and 
conditions of remuneration.

The Audit Committee comprises 
Ian Robinson (Chairman), Andrew 
Weeber, Lord Arbuthnot PC, 
Paul Bentham, Matthew Clapp 
and Mike Paul and meets at least 
twice a year and at such other 
times as the Chairman of the 
Committee requires. The external 
auditors attend for part or all of 
each meeting. The Committee is 

responsible for reviewing a wide 
range of matters, including half-
year and annual results before 
their submission to the Board, 
and for monitoring the controls 
that are in force to ensure the 
integrity of information reported 
to shareholders. The Committee 
advises the Board on the 
appointment of external auditors 
and on their remuneration 
for both audit and non-audit 
work, and discusses the nature, 
scope and results of the audit 
with the external auditors. The 
Committee keeps under review 
the cost effectiveness and the 
independence and objectivity of 
the external auditors. The Audit 
Committee is further responsible 
for ensuring that the ethical 
and compliance commitments 

21 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Report of the Directors continued

of management and employees 
are understood throughout the 
Group.

The Committee has considered 
that in light of the present size of 
the Group that a separate internal 
audit function is not currently 
required. The Committee’s 
position on the internal audit 
function is reviewed regularly, at 
least once a year.

The Nomination committee 
comprises Lord Arbuthnot PC 
(Chairman), Andrew Weeber, 
Paul Bentham, Matthew Clapp, 
Ian Robinson and Mike Paul and 
meets at least twice a year. The 
Committee is responsible for 
reviewing the composition and 
structure of the Board and for 
making recommendations to the 
Board for its consideration and 
approval.

Substantial shareholdings

Current shareholdings in excess 
of 3%:

Shareholder 

Shareholding

Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC

72.4 %

Andrew Weeber

6.9 %

At 31 December 2017 the ultimate 
controlling party of the Company 
is Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC.

Charitable and political 
donations

During the year, the Group made 
charitable and political donations 
of £nil (December 2016: £Nil).

and the Company financial 
statements in accordance with 
International Financial Reporting 
Standards (IFRSs) as adopted by 
the European Union.

Directors’ third party 
indemnity provisions

The Group maintains appropriate 
insurance to cover Directors’ 
and Officers’ liability. The Group 
provides an indemnity in respect 
of all the Group’s Directors. 
Neither the insurance nor 
the indemnity provides cover 
where the Director has acted 
fraudulently or dishonestly.

Financial risk management

The Group’s objectives and 
policies relating to financial risk 
management are fully explained 
in Note 3 on pages 42 to 44.

Directors’ responsibilities

The Directors are responsible for 
preparing the strategic report, 
director’s report and the financial 
statements in accordance with 
applicable law and regulations.

Company law requires the 
Directors to prepare financial 
statements for each financial 
year. Under that law the Directors 
have elected to prepare the 
Group financial statements 

Under company law the Directors 
must not approve the financial 
statements unless they are 
satisfied that they give a true and 
fair view of the state of affairs of 
the Group and Company and of 
the profit or loss of the Group 
for that year. The Directors are 
also required to prepare financial 
statements in accordance with 
the rules of the London Stock 
Exchange for companies trading 
securities on the Alternative 
Investment Market.

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

• 

select suitable accounting 
policies and then apply them 
consistently;

•  make judgements and 

accounting estimates that are 
reasonable and prudent;

• 

state whether the Group 
and the Company financial 
statements have been 
prepared in accordance with 
IFRSs as adopted by the 
European Union, subject to any 
material departures disclosed 
and explained in the financial 
statements;

22

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017responsibility also extends to the 
ongoing integrity of the financial 
statements contained therein.

Auditors

All of the current Directors 
have taken all the steps that 
they ought to have taken to 
make themselves aware of any 
information needed by the 
Company’s auditors for the 
purpose of their audit and to 
establish that the auditors are 
aware of that information. The 
Directors are not aware of any 
relevant audit information of 
which the auditors are unaware.

A resolution to reappoint BDO 
LLP as auditors will be proposed 
at the next annual general 
meeting.

By order of the Board

Ian Robinson

Secretary and Non-Executive 
Director

Date:  1 June 2018

•  prepare the financial 

statements on the going 
concern basis unless it is 
inappropriate to presume that 
the company will continue in 
business.

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

Website publication

The Directors are responsible for 
ensuring the annual report and 
the financial statements are made 
available on a website. Financial 
statements are published on 
the Company’s website in 
accordance with legislation in the 
United Kingdom governing the 
preparation and dissemination 
of financial statements, which 
may vary from legislation in other 
jurisdictions. The maintenance 
and integrity of the Company’s 
website is the responsibility of 
the Directors. The Directors’ 

23 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Report of the independent auditors
for the year ended 31 December 2017

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S 
REPORT TO THE MEMBERS 
OF GUSBOURNE PLC

Opinion

We have audited the financial 
statements of Gusbourne PLC 
(the ‘parent company’) and its 
subsidiaries (the ‘Group’) for the 
year ended 31 December 2017 
which comprise the consolidated 
and parent statement of financial 
position, the consolidated 
statement of comprehensive 
income, the consolidated and 
parent company statements of 
cash flows, the consolidated and 
parent company statement of 
changes in equity and notes to the 
financial statements, including a 
summary of significant accounting 
policies. The financial reporting 
framework that has been applied 
in the preparation of the financial 
statements is applicable law and 
International Financial Reporting 
Standards (IFRSs) as adopted 
by the European Union and, as 
regards the parent company 
financial statements, as applied in 
accordance with the provisions of 
the Companies Act 2006.

In our opinion:

• 

the financial statements give 
a true and fair view of the 
state of the Group’s and of the 
parent company’s affairs as at 
31 December 2017 and of the 
Group’s loss for the year then 
ended;

• 

• 

• 

the Group financial statements 
have been properly prepared 
in accordance with IFRSs as 
adopted by the European 
Union;

the parent company financial 
statements have been properly 
prepared in accordance 
with IFRSs as adopted by 
the European Union and as 
applied in accordance with the 
provisions of the Companies 
Act 2006; and

the financial statements have 
been prepared in accordance 
with the requirements of the 
Companies Act 2006.

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in 
accordance with International 
Standards on Auditing (UK) 
(ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. 
Our responsibilities under those 
standards are further described 
in the Auditor’s responsibilities 
for the audit of the financial 
statements section of our report. 
We are independent of the Group 
in accordance with the ethical 
requirements that are relevant 
to our audit of the financial 
statements in the UK, including 
the FRC’s Ethical Standard as 
applied to listed entities, and we 
have fulfilled our other ethical 
responsibilities in accordance 
with these requirements. We 
believe that the audit evidence 
we have obtained is sufficient and 
appropriate to provide a basis for 
our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going 
concern

We have nothing to report in 
respect of the following matters 
in relation to which the ISAs (UK) 
require us to report to you where:

• 

• 

the directors’ use of the going 
concern basis of accounting in 
the preparation of the financial 
statements is not appropriate; 
or

the directors have not disclosed 
in the financial statements any 
identified material uncertainties 
that may cast significant doubt 
about the Group’s or the parent 
company’s ability to continue 
to adopt the going concern 
basis of accounting for a period 
of at least twelve months from 
the date when the financial 
statements are authorised for 
issue.

Key audit matters

Key audit matters are those 
matters that, in our professional 
judgement, were of most 
significance in our audit of the 
financial statements of the 
current period and include the 
most significant assessed risks of 
material misstatement (whether 
or not due to fraud) 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 

24

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017of our audit of the financial statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not 
provide a separate opinion on these matters.

We considered going concern to be the only key audit matter based on our assessment of the risk and the 
effect on our audit. The table below shows the key audit matter that we identified. This is not a complete 
list of all risks identified for out audit. 

KEY AUDIT MATTER

Going concern

In the financial statements, the Directors are 
required to state that the Group and the parent 
company has adequate working capital facilities 
to operate during the going concern period. 
Whilst the ‘going concern period’ is not explicitly 
defined, a period of at least one year from the 
approval of the financial statements is required to 
be considered. There is significant judgement and 
estimation involved in this assessment.

This is considered to be the key area of focus for 
our audit given the business is in a development 
stage, the bank loan facility is due for repayment 
in September 2018 and the Group’s long term 
development strategy is dependent on the raising 
of further equity and/or debt funds.

HOW THE SCOPE OF OUR AUDIT 
ADDRESSED THE KEY AUDIT MATTER
We reviewed and challenged the Director’s 
forecasts to assess the Company’s ability to meet 
their financial obligations as they fall due within the 
period of twelve months from the date of approval 
of the financial statements by reviewing the 
assumptions and inputs in the cashflow forecast 
to assess whether these were in line with our 
understanding of the Company’s operations and 
other information obtained by us during the course 
of the audit.

We performed a mechanical check on the cashflow 
forecast model prepared by Management.

We performed sensitivity analysis on the cashflow 
forecasts and assessed the available headroom 
under sensitivity scenarios. 

We reviewed the adequacy of financing in place 
to enable the business to continue for a period of 
one year from expected sign off of the financial 
statements.

We obtained a copy of the signed loan agreement 
from Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC for the short-term 
loan of £1,000,000. In addition, we obtained a copy 
of the signed intention letter from Lord Ashcroft 
KCMG PC confirming that he would be prepared to 
provide secured debt funding for a period of at least 
12 months to replace Gusbourne PLC’s secured bank 
debt on terms to be agreed, if the refinancing of the 
bank loan facility was not successful.

We reviewed the disclosure included within the 
financial statements as per pages 34 and 35.

25 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Report of the independent auditors
for the year ended 31 December 2017
continued

Our application of materiality

We apply the concept of 
materiality both in planning 
and performing our audit, 
and in evaluating the effect of 
misstatements on the audit 
in forming our audit opinion. 
Materiality is assessed on both 
quantitative and qualitative 
grounds. 

Materiality is the magnitude of an 
omission or misstatement that, 
individually or in the aggregate, 
could reasonably be expected to 
influence the economic decisions 
of the users of the financial 
statements.

We determined materiality for 
the Group financial statements 
as a whole to be £150,000 
(2016: £146,000) which was set 
at 0.9% of Group total assets 
(2016: 1%). This provides a basis 
for determining the nature and 
extent of our risk assessment 
procedures, identifying and 
assessing the risk of material 
misstatement and determining 
the nature and extent of further 
audit procedures.

We determined that total assets 
would be the most appropriate 
basis for determining overall 
materiality as we consider 
it to be one of the principal 
considerations for members of 
the Company in assessing the 
financial performance of the 
Group.

26

Materiality in respect of the 
audit of the parent company 
has been set at £135,000 using 
a benchmark of 0.7% of total 
assets (2016: £146,000, using a 
benchmark of 1% of total assets). 

Performance materiality is set 
at a level lower than materiality. 
Performance materiality is used 
to scope areas of the financial 
statements and business and 
activities (‘components’) of 
groups that will be subject 
to audit. It is also used in 
determining statistical sample 
sizes and whether variances 
arising from analytical procedures 
should be investigated. 
Performance materiality is set 
to reduce to an appropriately 
low level the probability that the 
aggregate of uncorrected and 
undetected misstatements in 
the financial statements exceeds 
materiality for the financial 
statements as a whole.

On the basis of our risk 
assessment, together with our 
assessment of the Group’s 
overall control environment, our 
judgement was that performance 
materiality should be 75% (2016: 
75%) of materiality.

We agreed with the Audit 
Committee that we would report 
to the Committee all individual 
audit differences in excess of 
£7,500 (2016: £7,300). 

An overview of the scope of 
our audit

We designed our audit by 
determining materiality and 
assessing the risks of material 
misstatements in the financial 
statements. In particular, we 
looked at where the Directors 
make subjective judgements. 
We also address the risk of 
management override of internal 
controls, including assessing 
whether there was evidence 
of boas by the Directors that 
represented a risk of material 
misstatement due to fraud.

The Group operates solely in the 
United Kingdom and operates 
through one segment, the 
production, sale and distribution 
of English sparkling wine. The 
Group audit team performed all 
the work necessary to issue the 
Group and parent company audit 
opinions, including undertaking 
all of the audit work on the key 
risks of material misstatement.

Other information

The directors are responsible 
for the other information. The 
other information comprises 
the information included in 
the annual report other than 
the financial statements and 
our auditor’s report thereon. 
Our opinion on the financial 
statements does not cover the 
other information and, except to 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017the extent otherwise explicitly 
stated in our report, we do not 
express any form of assurance 
conclusion thereon.

In connection with our audit 
of the financial statements, 
our responsibility is to read 
the other information and, in 
doing so, consider whether 
the other information is 
materially inconsistent with 
the financial statements or our 
knowledge obtained in the 
audit or otherwise appears 
to be materially misstated. 
If we identify such material 
inconsistencies or apparent 
material misstatements, we are 
required to determine whether 
there is a material misstatement 
in the financial statements or 
a material misstatement of the 
other information. If, based on 
the work we have performed, we 
conclude that there is a material 
misstatement of this other 
information, we are required to 
report that fact. 

We have nothing to report in this 
regard.

Opinions on other matters 
prescribed by the Companies 
Act 2006

• 

• 

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

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

Matters on which we are 
required to report by 
exception

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

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

•  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

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

• 

the parent company financial 
statements are not in 
agreement with the accounting 
records and returns; or

•  certain disclosures of directors’ 
remuneration specified by law 
are not made; or 

•  we have not received all the 

information and explanations 
we require for our audit.

Responsibilities of directors

As explained more fully in 
the directors’ responsibilities 
statement set out on pages 
22 and 23, 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.

27 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Report of the independent auditors
for the year ended 31 December 2017
continued

Auditor’s responsibilities 
for the audit of the financial 
statements

Our objectives are to obtain 
reasonable assurance about 
whether the financial statements 
as a whole are free from material 
misstatement, whether due to 
fraud or error, and to issue an 
auditor’s report that includes our 
opinion. Reasonable assurance 
is a high level of assurance, but 
is not a guarantee that an audit 
conducted in accordance with 
ISAs (UK) will always detect a 
material misstatement when it 
exists.

Misstatements can arise from 
fraud or error and are considered 
material if, individually or in the 
aggregate, they could reasonably 
be expected to influence the 
economic decisions of users 
taken on the basis of these 
financial statements.

A further description of our 
responsibilities for the audit 
of the financial statements 
is located on the Financial 
Reporting Council’s website at:  
www.frc.org.uk/
auditorsresponsibilities. This 
description forms part of our 
auditor’s report.

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.

Charles Ellis  
(Senior Statutory Auditor)
For and on behalf of BDO LLP, 
Statutory Auditor
London

1 June 2018

BDO LLP is a limited liability 
partnership registered in England 
and Wales (with registered 
number OC305127).

28

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Consolidated statement of 
comprehensive income
for the year ended 31 December 2017

Year ended 
31 December 
2017 
£’000

Year ended 
31 December 
2016
£’000

998

640

Note

4

(381)

(423)

617

217

9

Revenue

Cost of sales

Gross profit

Fair value movement in biological produce

13

(27)

Administrative expenses

Loss from operations

Finance income

Finance expenses

Loss before tax

Tax expense

(1,759)

(1,385)

(1,169)

(1,159)

-

13

(469)

(382)

(1,638)

(1,528)

-

-

5

 8

9

Loss and total comprehensive loss for the year attributable to owners of the parent 

(1,638)

(1,528)

Loss per share attributable to the ordinary equity holders of the parent:

Basic and diluted (pence)

10 

(5.26)

(6.46)

The notes on pages 34 to 61 form part of these financial statements

29 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated statement of  
financial position
at 31 December 2017

31 December 
2017
£’000

31 December
2016
 £’000

Note

11

12

13

14

15

20 

16

18

17

17

18

1,007

11,230

12,237

-

3,484

281

1,464

5,229

17,466

(358)

(49)

(2,059)

(2,466)

(2,590)

(80)

(2,670)

(5,136)

1,007

9,930

10,937

-

2,247

314

1,123

3,684

14,621

(252)

(51)

(34)

(337)

(6,322)

(130)

(6,452)

(6,789)

12,330

7,832

Assets

Non-current assets

Intangibles

Property, plant and equipment

Current assets

Biological produce

Inventories

Trade and other receivables

Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets

Liabilities

Current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Finance leases

Loans and borrowings

Non-current liabilities

Loans and borrowings

Finance leases

Total liabilities

Net assets

30

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Issued capital and reserves attributable to owners of the parent

Share capital

Share premium

Merger reserve

Retained earnings

Total equity

31 December
2017
£’000

31 December
2016
£’000

Note

22

23

23

23

11,977

6,754

(13)

(6,388)

12,330

11,820

815

(13)

(4,790)

7,832

The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Board of Directors on 1 June 2018 
and were signed on its behalf by:

Andrew Weeber 

Charlie Holland

Non-Executive Chairman 

Chief Executive Officer

The notes on pages 34 to 61 form part of these financial statements

31 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
Consolidated statement of  
cash flows
for the year ended 31 December 2017

Cash flows from operating activities

Loss for the year before tax

Adjustments for:

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment

Gain on shares issued to directors in the year

Profit on disposal of property, plant and equipment

Finance expense

Finance income

Fair value movement in biological produce

Decrease / (Increase) in trade and other receivables

Increase in inventories

Increase in trade and other payables

Cash outflow from operations

Investing activities

Purchases of property, plant and equipment, excluding vineyard establishment

Investment in vineyard establishment

Sale of property, plant and equipment

Net cash from investing activities

Financing activities

Capital loan repayments

Issue of Deep Discount Bond

Repayment of Convertible Deep Discount Bond

Short term loan*

Finance lease agreements entered into

Repayment of finance leases

Interest paid

Issue of ordinary shares*

Share issue expenses

Net cash from financing activities

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year

*Non-cash transaction

31 December
2017
£’000

31 December
2016
£’000

Note

(1,638)

(1,528)

12

8

13

12

12

17

19

22

20 

20 

479

40

(3)

469

-

27

28

(1,264)

45

(1,817)

(1,636)

(86)

7

(1,715)

(34)

-

-

1,000

-

(52)

(82)

3,203

(162)

3,873

357

-

-

382

(13)

(9)

(60)

(536)

109

(1,298)

(778)

(338)

-

(1,116)

(34)

4,073

(1,755)

-

53

(46)

(82)

-

-

2,209

341

(205)

1,123

1,328

1,464

1,123

The short-term loan of £1,000,000 received in the year ended 31 December 2017 was used as part settlement of monies due 
under the share subscription which completed on 29 June 2017.

The notes on pages 34 to 61 form part of these financial statements

32

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
 
 
Consolidated statement of changes  
in equity
for the year ended 31 December 2017

Share 
 capital
£’000

11,820

Share 
premium
£’000

815

Merger 
reserve
£’000

(13)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

11,820

815

(13)

11,820

-

106

-

51

-

11,977

815

-

4,098

(162)

2,003

-

6,754

(13)

-

-

-

-

-

(13)

Convertible 
bond 
reserve 
£’000

Retained 
earnings
£’000

Total 
attributable 
to equity 
holders of 
parent
£’000

95

(3,357)

9,360

(95)

95

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(1,528)

(1,528)

(1,433)

(4,790)

(1,433)

7,832

(4,790)

(1,638)

7,832

(1,638)

-

-

-

40

(6,388)

4,204

(162)

2,054

40

12,330

1 January 2016

Convertible bond reserve 
transferred to retained 
earnings at redemption

Comprehensive loss for the year

Total comprehensive 
loss for the year

31 December 2016

1 January 2017

Comprehensive loss for the year

Contributions by and 
distributions to owners:

Share issue

Share issue expenses

Bond conversion

Gain on shares issued to 
directors in the year

31 December 2017

The notes on pages 34 to 61 form part of these financial statements 

33 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Notes forming part of the financial 
statements
for the year ended 31 December 2017

1 

Accounting policies

34

Gusbourne PLC (the “Company”) is a company incorporated and domiciled 
in the United Kingdom and quoted on the London Stock Exchange’s AIM 
market. The consolidated financial statements of the Group for the year 
ended 31 December 2017 comprise the Company and its subsidiaries 
(together referred to as the “Group”).

Basis of preparation

The Group’s consolidated financial statements and the Company’s financial 
statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial 
Reporting Standards as adopted for use in the EU (“IFRS”). The Company’s 
financial statements are presented on pages 64 to 70.

The following accounting policies have been applied consistently in dealing 
with items which are considered material in relation to the Group’s financial 
statements.

The financial statements are presented in pounds sterling. They have been 
prepared on the historical cost basis except that biological produce is stated 
at fair value.

Going concern

The Directors believe the Group to be a going concern on the basis that it 
has sufficient cash to continue operations for at least 12 months from the 
date these financial statements were approved. 

On 31 May 2018, the Company announced that it is intended to arrange a 
subscription of new Ordinary shares in the Company with Lord Ashcroft 
KCMG PC and other investors, which is expected to proceed by 31 July 2018 
(the Subscription).  The proceeds from the Subscription will continue to 
be applied towards working capital and capital expenditure in line with the 
Company’s long-term strategic plan.

In order to meet immediate working capital requirements, the Company 
entered into an agreement on 31 May 2018 with Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC to 
receive an unsecured loan of £1,000,000 (the “Loan Agreement” which is 
intended to be repaid in full, through conversion into new Ordinary shares 
as part of the Subscription, when it concludes. The loan carries interest for 
a period of 3 months following the date of the loan agreement at the rate of 
7% per annum above the base rate as varied from time to time by Barclays 
Bank plc, and thereafter at 10% per annum. 

Under the terms of the Loan Agreement, if the Subscription does not 
proceed, or if the subscription price  is not agreed between the Company 
and Lord Ashcroft by 31 July 2018, the loan and interest will become 
repayable on demand subject to such repayment not being in breach of 
the Company’s existing banking facilities or if such repayment caused the 
Company to be unable to meet its creditors as they fall due.

The Group’s bank loan of £2,025,000 is due for repayment in full in 
September 2018. While discussions with the bank are ongoing, as at the date 
of signing these financial statements, no extension to the loan agreement or 
refinancing had been agreed. 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 20171 

 Accounting policies 
(continued)

In the event that the bank was not prepared to refinance this secured debt, 
or if further funding could not be obtained, Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC has 
confirmed that he would be prepared to provide secured debt funding for a 
period of at least 12 months to replace Gusbourne PLC’s secured bank debt 
on terms to be agreed.

The Director’s note that the achievement of the Group’s long term 
development strategy will depend on the raising of further equity and/or 
debt funds to achieve those goals. The production of premium quality wine 
from new vineyards is, by its very nature a long term project. It takes four 
years to bring a vineyard into full production and, an average of four years to 
transform these grapes into the Group’s premium sparkling wine. 

Additional funding will be sought by the Group over the coming few years 
to invest in vineyards, winery capacity, and stocks of wine as well as brand 
development, in line with its development strategy. The Directors believe that 
future fundraisings will be successful to aid the future growth of the business 
and have prepared the financial statements on a going concern basis.

New accounting standards and changes to existing accounting standards

i.  New standards and interpretations adopted in the current year:

The IASB has issued no new standards, amendments to published standards 
and interpretations to existing standards with effective dates on or prior 
to 1 January 2017 which have a material effect on the Group, although an 
amendment to IAS 7 Statement of Cash Flows has resulted in a reconciliation 
of liabilities disclosed for the first time in note 20.

ii.  Standards, amendments and interpretations to existing standards that are 
not yet effective and have not been early adopted by the Group:

• 
• 
• 

• 

IFRS 16 Leases
IFRS 9 Financial Instruments
IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers

IFRS 2 (amended) Classification and Measurement of Share

The only standards which are anticipated to be significant or relevant to the 
Group are: 

IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers 

The Group has assessed its current revenue recognition policy under IFRS 
15. Based on existing terms of sale, the Group does not currently foresee any 
significant change to the timing of revenue recognition on sales under IFRS 15. 

IFRS 16 Leases 

The Group has entered into a number of long term leases in respect of land 
and buildings in West Sussex. The Group has planted vineyards on the leased 
land. The leases have a remaining life of 45 years. The Group has assessed 
the leases under IFRS 16 and expects an impact as the right of use assets 

35 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Notes forming part of the financial 
statements continued

1 

 Accounting policies 
(continued)

36

and lease liabilities will come onto the consolidated statement of financial 
position for the first time in respect of its current operating leases. The Group 
have performed a quantitative assessment based on the current leases in 
place and envisage that a right of use asset and associated lease liability 
of c.£0.9m will be recognised on adoption of IFRS 16. The Group does not 
currently expect any material impact on profit before tax, however, it is noted 
that the expense will be split between depreciation and the interest expense. 

IFRS 9 Financial Instruments 

IFRS 9 “Financial instruments” is designed to simplify the classification and 
measurement of financial assets and financial liabilities. IFRS 9 defines three 
measurement categories for financial assets: amortised cost, fair value through 
other comprehensive income (OCI) and fair value through profit or loss. 
Classification depends on the entity’s business model and the contractual cash 
flow of the financial asset. Investments in equity instruments are required to 
be measured at fair value through profit or loss with the irrevocable option at 
inception to present changes in fair value in OCI. A new model for recognizing 
provisions based on expected credit losses has been introduced which 
replaces the incurred loss impairment model used in IAS 39. Given the financial 
instruments currently in place, the Group does not expect the adoption of IFRS 
9 to have a material impact on the Group financial statements. The Company 
has a loan to the 100% owned subsidiary, which is the main operating entity. 
Management are still undertaking a full assessment but do not expect there to 
be any material impact as, in line with the future long term profitability of the 
Company, there is currently no reason to expect a loss from this loan. 

Basis of consolidation

The Group’s financial statements consolidate the financial statements of the 
Company and its subsidiary undertakings. Subsidiaries are entities controlled 
by the Company. Control exists when the Company has the power, directly 
or indirectly, to govern the financial and operating policies of an entity so as 
to obtain benefits from its activities and the ability to use its power over the 
investee to affect the amounts of the Group’s returns and which generally 
accompanies interest of more than one half of the voting rights. In assessing 
control, potential voting rights that presently are exercisable or convertible 
are taken into account. The results of any subsidiaries sold or acquired are 
included in the Group income statement up to, or from, the date control 
passes. Intra-Group sales and profits are eliminated fully on consolidation.

On acquisition of a subsidiary, all of the subsidiary’s separable, identifiable 
assets and liabilities existing at the date of acquisition are recorded at their 
fair values reflecting their condition at that date. On disposal of a subsidiary, 
the consideration received is compared with the carrying cost at the date 
of disposal and the gain or loss is recognised in the income statement. The 
excess of the cost of acquisition over the fair value of the Group’s share of 
the identifiable net assets is recorded as goodwill. Intercompany transactions, 
balances and unrealised gains on transactions between group companies 
are eliminated. Subsidiaries’ results are amended where necessary to ensure 
consistency with the policies adopted by the Group.

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 20171 

 Accounting policies 
(continued)

Revenue

Revenue from the sales of goods is recognised when the Group has 
transferred the significant risks and rewards of ownership to the buyer and it 
is probable that the Group will receive the previously agreed upon payment. 

These criteria are considered to be met when the goods are delivered to the 
buyer. Where the buyer has a right of return, revenue is recognised in the 
year where the goods are delivered less an appropriate provision for returns 
based on past experience.

Revenue from vineyard tours and tastings is recognised on the date on which 
the tour or tasting takes place. 

Financial assets

Loans and receivables

These assets are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable 
payments that are not quoted in an active market. They arise principally 
through the provision of goods to customers (e.g. trade receivables), but 
also incorporate other types of contractual monetary asset. They are initially 
recognised at fair value plus transaction costs that are directly attributable 
to their acquisition or issue, and are subsequently carried at amortised cost 
using the effective interest rate method, less provision for impairment.

Impairment provisions are recognised when there is objective evidence (such 
as significant financial difficulties on the part of the counterparty or default 
or significant delay in payment) that the Group will be unable to collect all of 
the amounts due under the terms receivable, the amount of such a provision 
being the difference between the net carrying amount and the present value 
of the future expected cash flows associated with the impaired receivable.

For trade receivables, which are reported net, such provisions are recorded 
in a separate allowance account with the loss being recognised within 
administrative expenses in the consolidated statement of comprehensive 
income. On confirmation that the trade receivable will not be collectable, 
the gross carrying value of the asset is written off against the associated 
provision.

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents includes cash in hand, deposits held at call with 
banks, other short term highly liquid investments with original maturities of 
three months or less.

Financial liabilities

Borrowings

Borrowings are initially recognised at fair value net of any transaction 
costs directly attributable to the loan. They are subsequently measured at 

37 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Notes forming part of the financial 
statements continued

1 

 Accounting policies 
(continued)

amortised cost with interest charged to the statement of comprehensive 
income based on the effective interest rate of the borrowings.

Convertible deep discount bonds

Convertible deep discount bonds are redeemable at their nominal price at 
maturity. The bonds may be converted into the Company’s shares at the 
holders’ option into a fixed number of shares and are therefore classified as 
compound financial instruments in accordance with the requirements of IAS 
32. The debt element is calculated as the present value of future cash flows 
assuming the bonds are redeemed on the redemption date, discounted at 
the market rate for an equivalent debt instrument with no option to convert 
to equity. The difference between the cash payable on maturity and the 
present value of the debt element is recognised within equity. The discount is 
charged over the life of the bond to the statement of comprehensive income 
and included within finance expenses.

Deep discount bonds 

Deep discount bonds are redeemable at their nominal price at maturity. 
The discount is charged over the life of the bond to the statement of 
comprehensive income and included within finance expenses.

Warrants 

Warrants are accounted for as a derivative financial liability measured on 
inception at fair value through profit or loss. Details of Warrants are shown in 
note 22.

Trade and other payables

Comprises trade payables and other short-term monetary liabilities, which 
are initially recognised at fair value and subsequently carried at amortised 
cost using the effective interest method.

Share capital

Financial instruments issued by the Group are classified as equity only to the 
extent that they do not meet the definition of a financial liability.

The Group’s Ordinary shares are classified as equity instruments.

Deferred taxation

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognised where the carrying amount 
of an asset or liability in the consolidated statement of financial position 
differs from its tax base, except for differences arising on:

• 

• 

the initial recognition of goodwill;

the initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction which is not 
a business combination and at the time of the transaction affects neither 
accounting or taxable profit; and

38

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 20171 

 Accounting policies 
(continued)

• 

investments in subsidiaries and jointly controlled entities where the 
Group is able to control the timing of the reversal of the difference and it 
is probable that the difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

Recognition of deferred tax assets is restricted to those instances where it is 
probable that taxable profit will be available against which the difference can 
be utilised.

The amount of the asset or liability is determined using tax rates that have 
been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting date and are 
expected to apply when the deferred tax liabilities/(assets) are settled/
(recovered).

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when the Group has a legally 
enforceable right to offset current tax assets and liabilities and the deferred 
tax assets and liabilities relate to taxes levied by the same tax authority on 
either:

• 

the same taxable group company; or

•  different group entities which intend either to settle current tax assets 
and liabilities on a net basis, or to realise the assets and settle the 
liabilities simultaneously, in each future period in which significant 
amounts of deferred tax assets or liabilities are expected to be settled or 
recovered.

Intangible Assets

Goodwill

Goodwill arises where a business is acquired and a higher amount is paid 
for that business than the fair value of the assets and liabilities acquired. 
Transaction costs attributable to acquisitions are expensed to the income 
statement.

Goodwill is recognised as an asset in the statement of financial position and 
is not amortised but is subject to an annual impairment review. Impairment 
occurs when the carrying value of goodwill is greater than the recoverable 
amount which is the higher of the value in use and fair value less disposal 
costs. The present value of the estimated future cash flows from the 
separately identifiable assets, termed a ‘cash generating unit’ is used to 
determine the fair value less cost of disposal to calculate the recoverable 
amount. The Group prepares and approves formal long term business plans 
for its operations which are used in these calculations.

Brand

Brand names acquired as part of acquisitions of businesses are capitalised 
separately from goodwill as intangible assets if their value can be measured 
reliably on initial recognition and it is probable that the expected future 
economic benefits that are attributable to the asset will flow to the Group.

39 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Notes forming part of the financial 
statements continued

1 

 Accounting policies 
(continued)

Brand names have been assessed as having an indefinite life and are not 
amortised but are subject to an annual impairment review. Impairment occurs 
when the carrying value of the brand name is greater than the present value 
of the estimated future cash flows.

Property, plant and equipment

Items of property, plant and equipment are initially recognised at cost. As 
well as the purchase price, cost includes directly attributable costs.

Freehold land is not depreciated.

Vineyard establishment represents the expenditure incurred to plant and 
maintain new vineyards until the vines reach productivity. Once the vineyards 
are productive the accumulated cost is transferred to mature vineyards and 
depreciated over the expected useful economic life of the vineyard. Vineyard 
establishment is not depreciated.

Depreciation is provided on all other items of property, plant and equipment 
so as to write off their carrying value over their expected useful economic 
lives. It is provided at the following rates:

Freehold buildings
Plant, machinery and motor vehicles
Computer equipment
Mature vineyards

4% per annum straight line
5-25% per annum straight line
33% per annum straight line
4% per annum straight line

The carrying value of property, plant and equipment is reviewed for 
impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the 
carrying value may not be recoverable.

Biological assets and produce

Agricultural produce is accounted for under IAS 41 Agriculture. Harvesting 
of the grape crop is ordinarily carried out in October. Prior to harvest the 
costs of growing the grapes are carried forward in inventory. Upon harvest 
the grapes become agricultural produce and are therefore measured at fair 
value less costs to sell in accordance with IAS 41 with any fair value gain or 
loss shown in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income. The fair 
value of grapes is determined by reference to estimated market prices at 
the time of harvest. Generally there is no readily obtainable market price for 
the Group’s grapes because they are not sold on the open market, therefore 
management set the values based on their experience and knowledge of the 
sector including past purchase transactions. This measurement of fair value 
less costs to sell is the deemed cost of the grapes that is transferred into 
inventory upon harvest.

Under IAS 41, the agricultural produce is also valued at the end of each 
reporting period, with any fair value gain or loss shown in the consolidated 
statement of comprehensive income. 

40

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 20171 

 Accounting policies 
(continued)

Bearer plants (Vines) are accounted for under IAS 16 PPE and are held at 
cost. 

Inventories

Inventories are initially recognised at cost, and subsequently at the lower 
of cost and net realisable value. Cost comprises all costs of purchase, costs 
of conversion and other costs, including operating lease rentals, incurred 
in bringing the inventories to their present location and condition. Grapes 
grown in the Group’s vineyards are included in inventory at fair value less 
costs to sell at the point of harvest which is the deemed cost for the grapes.

Weighted average cost is used to determine the cost of ordinarily 
interchangeable items.

Leased assets

Where substantially all of the risks and rewards incidental to ownership of 
a leased asset have been transferred to the Group (a “finance lease”), the 
asset is treated as if it had been purchased outright. The amount initially 
recognised as an asset is the lower of the fair value of the leased property 
and the present value of the minimum lease payments payable over the term 
of the lease. The corresponding lease commitment is shown as a liability. 
Lease payments are analysed between capital and interest. The interest 
element is charged to the consolidated statement of comprehensive income 
over the period of the lease and is calculated so that it represents a constant 
proportion of the lease liability. The capital element reduces the balance 
owed to the lessor.

Where substantially all of the risks and rewards incidental to ownership are 
not transferred to the Group (an “operating lease”), the total rentals payable 
under the lease are capitalised as part of inventory on a straight-line basis 
over the lease term. The aggregate benefit of lease incentives is recognised 
as a reduction of the rental expense over the lease term on a straight-line 
basis. During the year £74,000 (2016: £74,000) in respect of operating leases 
was capitalised as part of inventory.

2 

 Critical accounting policies

Estimates and judgements

The Group makes certain estimates and judgements regarding the future. 
Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated based on historical 
experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that 
are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. In the future, actual 
experience may differ from these estimates. The estimates and judgements 
that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying 
amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year relate are set 
out below.

41 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Notes forming part of the financial 
statements continued

2 

 Critical accounting policies 
(continued)

3 

 Financial instruments -  
risk management

42

Fair value of biological produce

The Group’s biological produce is measured at fair value less costs to sell 
at the point of harvest. The fair value of grapes is determined by reference 
to estimated market prices at the time of harvest. Generally there is no 
readily obtainable market price for the Group’s grapes because they are 
not sold on the open market, therefore management set the values based 
on their experience and knowledge of the sector including past purchase 
transactions. Refer to note 13 which provides information on sensitivity 
analysis around this.

Impairment reviews

The Group is required to test annually whether goodwill and brand names 
have suffered any impairment. The recoverable amount is determined 
based on fair value less costs of disposal calculations, which requires the 
estimation of the value and timing of future cash flows and the determination 
of a discount rate to calculate the present value of the cash flows. Further 
information is set out in note 11. Management does not believe that 
any reasonably possible change in a key assumption would result in an 
impairment.

The Group is exposed to risks that arise from its use of financial instruments. 
This note describes the Group’s objectives, policies and processes for 
managing those risks and the methods used to measure them. Further 
quantitative information in respect of these risks is presented throughout 
these financial statements.

There have been no substantive changes in the Group’s exposure to financial 
instrument risks, its objectives, policies and processes for managing those 
risks or the methods used to measure them from previous periods unless 
otherwise stated in this note.

Principal financial instruments

The principal financial instruments used by the Group, from which financial 
instrument risk arises, are as follows:

  Bank loans
  Convertible debt
  Deep discount bonds
  Trade receivables
  Cash and cash equivalents
  Finance leases
  Trade and other payables

In addition, at the Company level: Intercompany loans.

The carrying amounts are a reasonable estimate of fair values because of the 
short maturity of such instruments or their interest bearing nature.

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 20173 

 Financial instruments -  
risk management 
(continued)

Liquidity risk

Liquidity risk arises from the Group’s management of working capital and the 
finance charges and principal repayments on its debt instruments. It is the 
risk that the Group will encounter difficulty in meeting its financial obligations 
as they fall due.

The Group’s policy is to ensure that it will always have sufficient cash to allow 
it to meet its liabilities when they become due. The liquidity risk of the Group 
is managed centrally by the group treasury function. Budgets are set and 
agreed by the board in advance, enabling the Group’s cash requirements to 
be anticipated.

The following table sets out the contractual maturities (representing 
undiscounted contractual cash flows) of financial liabilities:

At 31 December 2016

Trade and other 
payables

Finance leases

Loans and borrowings

Deep discount bonds

Up to 3 
months
£’000

Between 
3 and 12 
months
£’000

Between 
1 and 2 
years
£’000

Between 
2 and 5 
years
£’000

Over 5
years
£’000

195

15

28

-

43

44

83

-

-

56

2,118

-

92

79

-

6,267

Total

238

170

2,174

6,438

Up to 3 
months
£’000

Between 
3 and 12 
months
£’000

Between 
1 and 2 
years
£’000

Between 
2 and 5 
years
£’000

Over 5
years
£’000

170

15

28

-

188

41

2,090

-

213

2,319

-

53

40

-

93

-

39

40

3,390

3,469

-

-

-

-

-

At 31 December 2017

Trade and other 
payables

Finance leases

Loans and borrowings

Deep discount bonds

Total

Capital risk management

-

-

-

-

-

Total
£’000

238

207

2,308

6,267

9,020

Total
£’000

358

148

2,198

3,390

6,094

The Group’s objectives when managing capital are to safeguard the Group’s 
ability to continue as a going concern in order to provide returns for 
shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders and to maintain an optimal 
capital structure to reduce the cost of capital. In order to maintain or adjust 
the capital structure, the Group may adjust the amount of dividends paid to 

43 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Notes forming part of the financial 
statements continued

3 

 Financial instruments -  
risk management 
(continued)

shareholders, return capital to shareholders, issue new shares and increase or 
decrease debt.

Credit risk

Credit risk arises from cash and cash equivalents and deposits with banks and 
financial institutions and the risk of default by these institutions. The Group 
reviews the creditworthiness of such financial institutions on a regular basis 
to satisfy itself that such risks are mitigated. The Group’s exposure to credit 
risk arises from default of the counterparty, with a maximum exposure equal 
to the carrying amount of the cash and cash equivalents as shown in the 
consolidated statement of financial position.

Credit risk also arises from credit exposure to trade customers included in 
trade and other receivables. Trade receivable balances are monitored on an 
ongoing basis to ensure that the Group’s bad debts are kept to a minimum. 
The maximum credit risk exposure at 31 December 2017 in respect of trade 
receivables is £165,000 (2016: £120,000).

Further disclosures regarding trade and other receivables, which are neither 
past due nor impaired, are provided in note 15.

Interest rate risk

The Group’s main debt is exposed to interest rate fluctuations. The Group 
considers that the risk is not significant in the context of its business plans. 
Should there be a 0.5% increase in the bank’s lending rate, the finance charge 
in the statement of comprehensive income would increase by £10,000.

4 

 Revenue and Segmental 
information

Wine sales

Other income

Revenue

 Year ended 
31 December
2017
£’000

Year ended 
31 December
2016
£’000

932

66

998

640

-

640

The Directors consider the Group to have only one operating segment. Details 
of the sole operating segment are shown in the consolidated statement of 
comprehensive income, consolidated statement of financial position and 
consolidated statement of cash flows.

44

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 20174 

 Revenue and Segmental 
information (continued)

The analysis by geographical area of the Group’s revenue is set out as below:

UK

USA

Other

 Year ended 
31 December
2017
£’000

Year ended 
31 December
2016
£’000

747

111

140

998

553

48

39

640

5 

 Loss from operations

Loss from operations has been arrived at after charging:

The Directors do not consider the Group places reliance on any major 
customers.

6 

 Auditor’s remuneration

7 

Staff costs

Year ended  
31 December
2017
£’000

Year ended 
31 December
2016
£’000

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment

Staff costs expensed to consolidated statement  
of income

479

310

357

220

Auditor’s remuneration

- Audit: consolidation and parent

- Audit: subsidiaries

Staff costs (including Directors) comprise:

Wages and salaries

Social security contributions and similar taxes

Pension contributions

 Year ended 
31 December
2017
£’000

Year ended 
31 December
2016
£’000

35

12

47

30

9 

 39

Year ended 
31 December
2017
£’000

Year ended 
31 December
2016
£’000

634

63

14

711

528

46

3

577

The average number of employees of the Group, including Directors, during 
the year was 25 (December 2016: 21). 

45 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
 
 
 
Notes forming part of the financial 
statements continued

7 

Staff costs (continued)

Directors’ remuneration was as follows:

The total emoluments of all Directors during the 
year was:

Emoluments (including benefits)

Compensation for loss of office

Contributions to defined contribution pension plans

Total

Total emoluments for all directors excluding 
pension contributions:

A Weeber

M Paul

B Walgate

C Holland

J Pollard

Lord Arbuthnot PC

P Bentham

M Clapp

I Robinson

Total

Year ended  
31 December
2017
£’000

Year ended 
31 December
2016
£’000

268

-

268

7

275

144

30

174

1

175

Year ended  
31 December
2017
£’000

Year ended 
31 December
2016
£’000

36

48

-

89

72

-

-

23

-

268

50

8

45

12

9

-

10

-

10

144

B Walgate resigned as a director on 20 June 2016. M Paul, C Holland and J 
Pollard were appointed as directors on 26 October 2016.

Pension contributions

J Pollard

C Holland

Year ended  
31 December
2017
£’000

Year ended 
31 December
2016
£’000

4

3

1

-

46

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 20177 

Staff costs (continued)

The emoluments of the highest paid Director 
during the year were:

89

50

The total emoluments for B Walgate, C Holland and J Pollard include benefits 
to the value of £nil (2016: £2,000) and £9,000 (2016: £1,000) and £nil (2016: 
£nil) respectively.

The Directors are considered to be key management

8 

 Finance expenses

Key management personnel

costs were as follows:

Short term employment benefits

Social security contributions

Gain on shares issued to directors in the year

Year ended  
31 December
2017
£’000

Year ended 
31 December
2016
£’000

268

24

40

332

144

13

-

157 

On the 20 July 2017 Charlie Holland and Jon Pollard were each awarded 
42,000 Ordinary shares of 1 pence each as part of their renumeration 
package. The gain represents the difference between the market value of the 
shares on the date of issue (48 pence per share) and the price paid per share 
(1 pence per share).

Year ended 
31 December
2017
£’000

Year ended 
31 December
2016
£’000

Finance expenses

Interest payable on borrowings

Amortisation of bank transaction costs

Discount expense on convertible bond

Discount expense on deep discount bond

Settlement amount in excess of carrying value at 
redemption

Total finance expenses

82

5

-

382

-

469

82

5

78

122

95

382

47 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
Notes forming part of the financial 
statements continued

9 

Taxation

There is no current or deferred tax charge for the year (2016: £nil). 

Year ended 
31 December
2017
£’000

Year ended 
31 December
2016
£’000

Loss on ordinary activities before tax

(1,638)

(1,528)

Loss on ordinary activities at the standard rate of 
corporation tax in the UK for the year of 19.25% 
(December 2016: 20 %)

(315)

(306)

Effects of:

Expenses not deductible for tax purposes

Unprovided deferred tax movements on short term 
temporary differences

Unrecognised losses carried forward

Effect of changes in tax rate in prior years

Tax charge/(credit) for the year

106

(78)

246

41

-

93

(76)

285

4

-

No deferred tax asset has been recognised on unutilised taxable losses due 
to the lack of certainty over the taxable profits being available against which 
deductible temporary differences can be utilised. The unutilised tax losses 
carried forward are £6,938,000 (December 2016: £5,457,000).

Basic earnings per Ordinary share are based on a loss of £1,638,000 
(December 2016: £1,528,000) and Ordinary shares 31,169,077 (December 
2016: 23,639,762) of 1 pence each (December 2016: 50 pence each), being 
the weighted average number of shares in issue during the year. There is no 
adjustment to be made for diluted earnings per Ordinary share.

Weighted 
average 
number of 
shares

Loss per 
 Ordinary 
share pence

Loss
£’000

Year ended 31 December 2017

(1,638)

31,169,077

Year ended 31 December 2016

(1,528)

23,639,762

(5.26)

(6.46)

10  Loss per share

48

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 201711 

Intangibles

Cost

At 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2017

777

230

1,007

Goodwill
£’000

Brand
£’000

Total
£’000

Impairment losses

At 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2017

-

-

-

Net book value

At 31 December 2016 and 
31 December 2017

777

230

1,007

The carrying value of goodwill and the brand is allocated to the following 
cash-generating units:

Gusbourne Estate

December
2017
£’000

December
2016
£’000

1,007

1,007

The brand value is the fair value of the brand name acquired as part of the 
acquisition of Gusbourne Estate in September 2013, and separately identified 
as an intangible.

Goodwill is the premium paid to acquire the Gusbourne Estate business over 
the fair value of its net assets.

Given the long term nature of vineyard establishment and wine production 
the Group’s management prepare long term cash flow forecasts for up to 9 
years, and then apply a discount rate to determine the present value of the 
future cash flows of the cash-generating unit to arrive at the fair value less 
costs of disposal. Where this amount is lower than the carrying value of the 
brand and goodwill allocated to the cash-generating unit an impairment 
charge is made. The discount rate used is 13.1% (December 2016: 17%) based 
on the Group’s estimated weighted cost of capital. A growth rate of 2% has 
been applied over the term of the long term cash flow forecasts. The growth 
rate used is based on the long term average growth rate of the UK economy.

49 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes forming part of the financial 
statements continued

12 

 Property, plant and 
equipment

Freehold 
Land and 
Buildings
£’000

Plant, 
machinery 
and motor 
vehicles
£’000

Vineyard 
establishment 
£’000

Mature 
Vineyards
£’000

Computer 
equipment
£’000

Total
£’000

Cost

At 1 January 2016

Additions

Transfers

Disposals

5,288

414

-

-

1,268

363

-

(1)

1,832

338

(698)

-

-

698

-

1,240

39

9,667

At 31 December 2016

5,702

1,630

1,472

1,938

At 1 January 2017

Additions

Transfers

Disposals

5,702

1,090

-

-

1,630

589

-

(6)

At 31 December 2017

6,792

2.213

1,472

86

(695)

-

863

1,938

-

695

-

2,633

50

1

-

(3)

37

37

18

-

-

1,116

-

(4)

10,779

10,779

1,783

-

(6)

55

12,556

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
12 

 Property, plant and 
equipment (continued)

Freehold 
land and 
buildings
£’000

 Plant, 
Machinery 
and motor 
Vehicles
£’000

Vineyard 
establishment
£’000

Mature 
vineyards 
£’000

Computer 
equipment
£’000

Total
£’000

90

69

-

159

159

94

-

253

286

226

(1)

511

511

297

(2)

806

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

100

54

-

154

154

82

-

236

20

8

(3)

25

25

6

- 

31

496

357

(4)

849

849

479

(2)

1,326

Accumulated 
depreciation

At 1 January 2016

Depreciation charge 
for the year

Depreciation on 
disposals

At 31 December 2016

At 1 January 2017

Depreciation charge 
for the year

Depreciation on 
disposals

At 31 December 2017

Net book value

At 31 December 2016

At 31 December 2017

5,543

6,539

1,119

1,407

1,472

863

1,784

2,397

12

24

9,930

11,230

Within property, plant and equipment are assets with a carrying value of 
£131,000 (2016: £191,000) held under finance leases.

During the year £695,000 (2016:£698,000) of vineyard establishment costs 
were transferred to mature vineyards at cost.

13  Biological produce

The fair value of biological produce was:

At 1 January

Crop growing costs

Fair value of grapes harvested and transferred 
to inventory

Fair value movement in biological produce

At 31 December

2017
£’000

-

1,048

2016
£’000

 - 

488

(1,021)

(497)

(27)

-

9

 -

51 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
Notes forming part of the financial 
statements continued

13 

 Biological produce 
(continued)

14 

 Inventories

15  Trade and other receivables

The fair value of grapes harvested is determined by reference to estimated 
market prices less cost to sell at the time of harvest. The estimated market 
price for grapes used in respect of the 2017 harvest is £2,300 per tonne 
(2016: £2,000 per tonne).

A 10% increase in the estimated market price of grapes to £2,530 per 
tonne would result in an increase of £102,000 in the fair value of the grapes 
harvested in the year. A 10% decrease in the estimated market price of grapes 
to £2,070 per tonne would result in a decrease of £102,000 in the fair value 
of the grapes harvested in the year.

A fair value loss of £27,000 (2016: £9,000 gain) was recorded during the year 
and included within the consolidated statement of comprehensive income. 
This measurement of fair value less costs to sell is the deemed cost of the 
grapes that is transferred into inventory upon harvest.

Finished goods

Work in progress

Total inventories

December
2017
£’000

December
2016
£’000

90

3,394

3,484

96

2,151

2,247

During the year £334,000 (December 2016: £381,000) was transferred to 
cost of sales.

Prior to harvest, the costs of growing the grapes are included in inventory.

Trade receivables

Prepayments

Other receivables

Total trade and other receivables

December
2017
£’000

December
2016
£’000

165

31

85

281

120

111

83

314

Trade and other receivables are due within 1 year apart from £nil (December 
2016: £50,000) included within other receivables which is due in more than 1 
year.

As at 31 December 2017 trade receivables of £11,000 (2016: £7,000) were 
past due but not impaired. They relate to customers with no default history. 
The ageing analysis of these receivables is as follows:

52

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
 
 
 
15 

 Trade and other receivables 
(continued)

16  Trade and other payables

< 3 months

3 to 6 months

> 6 months

Trade payables

Accruals

Other payables

Total financial liabilities, excluding loans and 
borrowings classified as financial liabilities 
measured at amortised cost

Other payables - tax and social security payments

Total trade and other payables

December
2017
£’000

December
2016
£’000

4

7

-

11

4

3

-

7

December
2017
£’000

December
2016
£’000

131

194

10

335

23

358

107

109

22

238

14

252

Book values are approximate to fair value at 31 December 2017 and 
31 December 2016.

17  Loans and borrowings

Current liabilities:

Bank loans

Non current liabilities

Bank loans

Deep Discount Bonds

Total loans and borrowings

December
2017
£’000

December
2016
£’000

2,059

2,059

68

2,522

2,590

34

34

2,127

4,195

6,322

53 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes forming part of the financial 
statements continued

The bank loan of £2,025,000 carries interest at an annual rate of 3% over 
Barclays Bank plc base rate and is due for repayment in full in September 
2018. It is secured by way of a fixed charge over the Group’s land and 
buildings at Appledore, Kent, shown at a cost of £6,325,000 (2016: 
£5,390,000) within property, plant and equipment and a floating charge over 
all other property and undertakings.

Other bank loans of £102,000 carry a fixed interest rate of 6% per annum 
secured against certain items of plant and equipment. This loan is repayable 
via monthly instalments over 5 years from January 2016.

On 2 September 2016 the Company issued a deep discount bond totalling 
£4,073,034. The bond is secured by a fixed charge over the Group’s land 
and buildings at Appledore, Kent. The bond is redeemable on 15 August 2021 
and attracts a coupon rate of 9% per annum which is rolled up annually. The 
redemption amount of the deep discount bonds at the time they were issued 
was £6,266,868. 

On 30 June 2017 the Company offered Bondholders the opportunity to 
convert their bonds into new Ordinary shares at an Issue price of 40p. The 
company announced, on 1 August, that it received final acceptances of 
5,136,662 Conversion Offer Shares, raising £2,055,000 and resulting in a 
reduction of the final redemption amount of the deep discount bonds to 
£3,390,000.

Accrued discount of £382,000 has been charged to the statement of 
comprehensive income during the year.

An analysis of the maturity of loans and borrowings is given below:

Bank loans: 

Within 1 year

1-2 years 

2-5 years

Deep Discount Bonds:

Within 1 year

1-2 years 

2-5 years

December 
2017 
£’000

December 
2016 
£’000

2,059

34

34

-

-

34

2,059

68

-

-

2,522

4,195

17 

 Loans and borrowings 
(continued)

54

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
18 

 Finance Leases

19 

 Convertible deep  
discount bonds

The minimum lease payments under finance leases 
fall due as follows:

Within 1 year

2-5 years

Future value of finance lease payments

Present value of finance lease liabilities

Of which:

Within 1 year

2-5 years

More than 5 years

December
2017
£’000

December
2016
£’000

56

91

147

(18)

129

49

80

-

129

59

148

207

(26)

181

51

130

-

181

Finance leases comprise hire purchase agreements which the Group has 
used to purchase various items of plant, machinery and motor vehicles. 
The carrying value of the assets acquired held under these finance leases 
amounts to £131,000 (2016: £191,000) and are shown within property, plant 
and equipment (note 12).

Present value of debt element at 1 January

Converted into shares during the year

Discount expense for the year

Settlement amount in excess of carrying value at 
redemption

Repaid to bond holder during the year

Present value of debt element at 31 December

Equity element at 31 December

Total carrying value at 31 December

2017
£’000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

2016
£’000

1,583

-

77

95

(1,755)

-

-

-

Convertible deep discount bonds represented the debt element of 
convertible deep discount bonds issued to Mr A C V Weeber and Mrs C 
Weeber as part of the consideration for the acquisition of the Gusbourne 
Estate business on 27 September 2013. The bonds were secured by a fixed 
charge over the Group’s land and buildings at Appledore, Kent. 

On 2 September 2016 the convertible deep discount bonds were redeemed 
in full and the security discharged.

55 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes forming part of the financial 
statements continued

20 

 Note supporting statement 
of cash flows

Cash and cash equivalents for purposes of the statement of cash flows 
comprises:

Cash at bank available 

Cash on hand

December
2017
£’000

December
2016
£’000

1,463

1

1,464

1,123

-

1,123

There were no significant non-cash transactions from investing activities. 

Transactions from financing activities are shown in the reconciliation of 
liabilities from financing transactions below:

Non-current 
loans and 
borrowings
£’000
(Note 17)

Current 
loans and 
borrowings
£’000
(Note 17)

Non-current 
finance  
leases
£’000
(Note 18)

6,322

-

34

(110)

130

-

Current 
finance  
leases
£’000
(Note 18)

51

(59)

(2,059)

2,059

(50)

382

(2,055)

2,590

76

 -

2,059

-

-

80

50

7

-

49

At 1 January 2017 

Cash flows 

Non cash flows 

–  Loans and 

borrowings classified 
as non-current at 
31 December 2016 
becoming current 
during 2017

–  Interest accruing  

in period 

–  Debt converted  

into equity

At 31 December 2017

In accordance with IAS 7 comparatives are not provided as it is the first 
period in which the Group complies with the disclosure requirements. 

56

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
 
 
21 

 Operating lease 
commitments

The future aggregate minimum lease payments under non-cancellable 
operating leases are as follows:

Operating leases which expire:

Within one year

Within two to five years

More than five years

December
2017
£’000

December
2016
£’000

64

259

2,686

3,009

58

258

2,751

3,067

The Group has entered into a number of long term leases in respect of land 
and buildings in West Sussex. The Group has planted vineyards on the leased 
land.

The leases have lives remaining of 45 years (2016: 46 years) and include 
various terms including regular break clauses at the Group’s option.

22  Share capital

Ordinary 
shares of 
50p each
Number 

Deferred 
shares of 
49p each
Number

Ordinary 
shares of 
1p each
Number

Issued and fully paid

At 1 January 2016 

23,639,762

Issued for cash  
during the year

-

At 31 December 2016 

23,639,762

-

-

-

-

-

-

£’000

11,820

-

11,820

-

105

1

51

Subdivision of 
Ordinary shares of 
50p each

Issued for cash  
during the year 

Share awards to 
directors

Bond conversion

At 31 December 2017 

(23,639,762)

23,639,762

23,639,762

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

10,506,560

84,000

5,136,662

23,639,762

39,366,984

11,977

On 29 June 2017 each Ordinary share of 50 pence each in the capital of the 
Company was divided into one Ordinary share of 1 pence and one Deferred 
share of 49 pence. The Ordinary shares of 1 pence each have the same rights 

57 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
 
 
 
Notes forming part of the financial 
statements continued

22  Share capital (continued)

as the previous Ordinary shares of 50 pence each. The Deferred shares of 49 
pence each have no rights attached to them. 

On 29 June 2017 Gusbourne PLC issued, for cash, 10,506,560 Ordinary shares 
of 1 pence each at a price of 40 pence per share. These shares were fully 
subscribed and paid up.

On 25 July 2017 Gusbourne PLC issued 42,000 new Ordinary shares of 1 
pence each in the Company to Charlie Holland, Chief Executive Officer and 
42,000 new Ordinary shares of 1 pence each to Jon Pollard, Chief Operating 
Officer. 

On 1 August 2017 Gusbourne PLC announced it received final acceptances in 
respect of 5,136,662 Conversion Offer Shares and issued Ordinary shares of 1 
pence each at a price of 40 pence per share. 

Gusbourne PLC has Warrants to subscribe for 2,036,517 Ordinary shares 
of 1 pence each in issue. The Warrants are exercisable at any time by the 
Warrantholder with an exercise price of 75 pence per share. The Warrants are 
accounted for as a derivative financial liability measured on inception at fair 
value through profit or loss. On inception, the fair value of the warrants was 
deemed to be £nil and thus no fair value was recognised. 

Unexercised Warrants as at 31 December 2017 amount to 2,036,517 Ordinary 
shares of 1 pence each.

23  Reserves

The following describes the nature and purpose of each reserve within equity:

Reserve

Share premium

Merger reserve

Retained earnings

Description and purpose

The share premium account arose on the issue of 
shares by the Company at a premium to their nominal 
value. Expenses of share issues are charged to this 
account.

The merger reserve arose on the business 
combination and is the difference between the 
nominal value of the shares issued and the market 
value of the shares acquired.

The retained earnings represent cumulative net gains 
and losses recognised in the Group’s statement of 
consolidated income.

58

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 201724  Related party transactions

SUSD Limited (“SUSD”) provided architectural and project management 
services to the Group during the year amounting to £nil (December 2016 
- £31,300). There was no balance due to SUSD as at 31 December 2017 
(December 2016 - £nil). Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC, the Company’s ultimate 
controlling party, is also the ultimate controlling party of SUSD.

Deacon Street Partners Limited (formerly Anne Street Partners Limited) is 
considered a related party by virtue of the fact that Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC, 
the Company’s ultimate controlling party, is also the ultimate controlling party 
of Deacon Street Partners Limited. During the year Deacon Street Partners 
Limited charged the Company in total £139,923 (December 2016 - £108,000). 
Of this, £nil was in relation to directors fees (December 2016 - £10,000) and 
£139,923 relates to management services (December 2016 - £98,000). There 
was £18,000 due to Deacon Street Partners Limited as at 31 December 2017 
(December 2016 - £nil).

Devonshire Club Limited is considered a related party by virtue of the fact 
that Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC, the Company’s ultimate controlling party, is also 
the ultimate controlling party of Devonshire Club Limited. During the year the 
Company sold wine to the Devonshire Club Limited amounting to £10,534 
(December 2016 - £25,918). A balance due from the Devonshire Club Limited 
of £1,254 (2016: £3,138) is shown within trade receivables. 

On 2 September 2016 the convertible deep discount bond was redeemed 
in full and security was discharged. The redemption price of the bonds was 
£1,755,000 and was satisfied by the payment, in cash to Mr Andrew Weeber, 
of £1,155,000 and the subscription by Mr Weeber in new deep discount bonds 
amounting to £600,000.

On 2 September 2016, the Company issued deep discount bonds with a 
subscription price of £4,073,034 together with 2,036,517 separable warrants 
to subscribe for Ordinary shares at an exercise price of 75 pence per share. 
On 30 June 2017 the Company offered Bondholders the opportunity to 
convert their bonds into new Ordinary shares at an Issue price of 40p. The 
company announced, on 1 August, that it received final acceptances of 
5,136,662 Conversion Offer Shares, raising £2,055,000 and resulting in a 
reduction of the final redemption amount of the deep discount bonds to 
£3,390,000.

59 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Notes forming part of the financial 
statements continued

24 

 Related party transactions 
(continued)

Details of related parties who subscribed for the deep discount bonds and 
hold warrants are shown in the tables below:-

Deep Discount Bonds

Subscription 
 Price as at  
2 September 
2016

Accrued 
Discount 
to 31 
December 
2016

Balance 
as at 31 
December  
2016

Accrued  
Discount 
to 31 
December 
2017

Converted  
into 
Ordinary 
shares of  
1p each

Balance 
as at 31 
December  
2017

Name

Lord Ashcroft  
KCMG PC

 2,623,034 

 78,375 

 2,701,409 

 231,373 (1,669,500) 

 1,263,282 

A Weeber

 600,000 

 17,928 

 617,928 

 68,764 

 - 

 686,692 

I Robinson

 100,000 

 2,988 

 102,988 

 6,903 

(109,891) 

 10,000 

 10,000 

 299 

 299 

 10,299 

 10,299 

 690 

(10,989) 

 690 

(10,989) 

 10,000 

 299 

 10,299 

 690 

(10,989) 

 3,353,034 

 100,188   3,453,222 

 309,110  (1,812,358)   1,949,974

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

Lord 
Arbuthnot PC

M Paul

M Clapp

Warrants

Name

Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC

A Weeber

I Robinson

Lord Arbuthnot PC

M Paul

M Clapp

Held as at  
31 December  
2016 
Number

Held as at  
31 December  
2017 
Number

 1,311,517 

 1,311,517 

 300,000 

 300,000 

 50,000 

 50,000 

 5,000 

 5,000 

 5,000 

 5,000 

 5,000 

 5,000 

 1,676,517 

 1,676,517

On 25 July 2017 Gusbourne PLC issued 42,000 new Ordinary shares of 1 
pence each in the Company to Charlie Holland, Chief Executive Officer and 
42,000 new Ordinary shares of 1 pence each to Jon Pollard, Chief Operating 
Officer. See note 7 for further details.

On 6 June 2017 a short-term loan from Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC of 
£1,000,000 was received, which was offset against Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC’s 
subscription under the Open Offer which completed on 29 June 2017.

60

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
 
 
25 

 Subsequent events

On 31 May 2018, the Company announced that it is intended to arrange a 
subscription of new Ordinary shares in the Company with Lord Ashcroft 
KCMG PC and other investors, which is expected to proceed by 31 July 2018 
(the Subscription).  The proceeds from the Subscription will continue to 
be applied towards working capital and capital expenditure in line with the 
Company’s long-term strategic plan.

In order to meet immediate working capital requirements, the Company 
entered into an agreement on 31 May 2018 with Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC to 
receive an unsecured loan of £1,000,000 (the “Loan Agreement”) which is 
intended to be repaid in full, through conversion into new Ordinary shares 
as part of the Subscription, when it concludes. The loan carries interest for a 
period of 3 months following the date of the loan agreement at the rate of 7% 
per annum above the base rate as varied from time to time by Barclays Bank 
plc, and thereafter at 10% per annum. 

61 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 201762

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Parent company  
financial statements

63 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Company balance sheet
at 31 December 2017

Assets
Non-current assets

Investments

Other receivables

Current assets

Trade and other receivables

Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets

Current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Non-current liabilities

Loans and borrowings

Total liabilities

Net assets

Issued capital and reserves attributable to owners

Share capital

Share premium

Retained earnings

Total equity

December
2017
£’000

December
2016
£’000

Note

4

5

5

6

7

8

9

9

-

-

17,450

13,936

8

1,364

18,822

8

1,031

14,975

(138)

(79)

(2,522)

(2,660)

(4,195)

(4,274)

16,162

10,701

11,977

6,754

(2,569)

16,162

11,820

815

(1,934)

10,701

In accordance with Section 408 of the Companies Act 2006, the Company has not presented its own income 
statement in these financial statements. The Company results for the year include a loss after tax and before dividends 
payable of £675,000 (2016: £610,000) which is dealt with in the consolidated financial statements of the Group.

The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Board on 1 June 2018 and were signed on its 
behalf by Ian Robinson.

Ian Robinson

Secretary and Non-Executive Director

The notes on pages 67 to 70 form part of these financial statements

64

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
 
 
 
Statement of cash flows
for the year ended 31 December 2017

Cash flows from operating activities

Loss for the year before tax

Adjustments for:

Finance expense

Increase in trade and other payables

Gain on shares issued to directors in the year

Cash outflow from operations 

Investing activities

Interest received

Increase in other receivables - Intercompany loan

Net cash from investing activities

Financing activities

Issue of Deep Discount Bonds

Repayment of Convertible Bonds

Issue of ordinary shares*

Share issue expenses

Short term loan*

Net cash from financing activities

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year

*Non- cash transaction

31 December
2017
£’000

31 December
2016
£’000

Note

6

5 

7

(675)

(610)

382

59

40

294

7

-

(194)

(309)

-

(3,514)

(3,514)

-

(2,039)

(2,039)

-

-

3,203

(162)

1,000

4,041

4,073

(1,755)

-

-

-

2,318

333

(30)

1,031

1,061

1,364

1,031

The short-term loan of £1,000,000 received in the year ended 31 December 2017 was used as part settlement of 
monies due under the share subscription which completed on 29 June 2017.

The notes on pages 67 to 70 form part of these financial statements

65 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Statement of changes in equity
for the year ended 31 December 2017

1 January 2016

Convertible bond reserve transferred to retained 
earnings at redemption

Comprehensive loss for the year

31 December 2016

1 January 2017

Comprehensive loss for the year

Contributions by and distributions to owners:

Share issue

Share issue expenses

Bond conversion 

Gain on shares issued to directors in the year

31 December 2017

Share 
premium
£’000

Convertible 
bond 
reserve 
£’000

Retained 
earnings
£’000

Total 
attributable 
to equity 
holders
£’000

815

- 

-

815

815

-

4,098

(162)

2,003

-

6,754

95

(1,419)

11,311

(95)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

95

(610)

(1,934)

(1,934)

(675)

-

-

-

40

(2,569)

- 

(610)

10,701

10,701

(675)

4,204

(162)

2,054

40

16,162

Share 
 capital
£’000

11,820

- 

-

11,820

11,820

-

106

-

51

-

11,977

The notes on pages 67 to 70 form part of these financial statements.

66

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
Notes forming part of the company 
financial statements
for the year 31 December 2017

1 

Accounting policies

Gusbourne Plc (“the Company”) is a company limited by shares and 
registered in England and Wales with the registered number 08225727. The 
Company’s registered office is Gusbourne, Kenardington Road, Appledore, 
Ashford, Kent, TN26 2BE.

The following principal accounting policies have been applied:

Basis of preparation

The parent company financial statements are prepared under International 
Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by the European Union. 
The Company’s accounting policies are aligned with the Group’s accounting 
policies as described in note 1 of the Group’s consolidated financial 
statements. Additional accounting policies are noted below.

Investment in subsidiaries

The company has an investment in two subsidiaries. Investments are valued 
at cost, less allowances for impairment. Impairment reviews are performed 
annually.

2  Credit risk

The Company is exposed to credit risk in respect of the loans recoverable 
from other Group companies amounting to £17,450,000 (2016: £13,936,000) 
and will only be repaid once the Group companies are profitable.

3  Directors and employees

The average number of staff employed by the Company during the year 
(comprising solely of Directors) was 8 (2016 - 7). 

Details of the emoluments of the Directors can be found in note 7 of the 
consolidated financial statements.

4 

Investments

The following were the subsidiary undertakings at the end of the year:

Name

Country of incorporation

Gusbourne Estate Limited

England and Wales

Gusbourne Wines Limited

England and Wales

Proportion of 
ownership interest at 
31 December 2017

100%

100%

Gusbourne Estate Limited is involved in the production, sale and distribution 
of English sparkling wine. Gusbourne Wines Limited is dormant.

The registered address of Gusbourne Estate Limited and Gusbourne Wines 
Limited is Kenardington Road, Appledore, Kent TN26 2BE.

67 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
Notes forming part of the company 
financial statements continued

5  Other receivables

Non-current assets

Amounts due from group undertakings

17,450

13,934

December
2017
£’000

December
2016
£’000

Current assets

Other receivables

Prepayments and accrued income

Total current assets

-

8

8

-

8

8

17,458

13,942

The amount due from group undertakings is repayable on demand, however 
given the long-term development strategy of the Group, it is not expected to 
be received within 12 months.

6 

 Trade and other payables: 
amounts due within one 
year

Trade payables

Accruals and deferred income

Other payables 

December
2017
£’000

December
2016
£’000

21

116

1

138

10

69

-

79

7  Deep discount bonds

Details of the deep discount bonds are shown in note 17 in the Group’s 
financial statements.

8 

Share Capital

Details of the share capital of the Company are included in note 22 to the 
Group’s financial statements.

9  Reserves

Details of the nature and purpose of each reserve within equity are shown in 
note 23 to the Group’s financial statements.

10  Ultimate controlling party

In the opinion of the Directors the ultimate controlling party at 31 December 
2017 is Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC.

68

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
 
 
 
 
11  Related party transactions

Deacon Street Partners Limited (formerly Anne Street Partners Limited) is 
considered a related party by virtue of the fact that Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC, 
the Company’s ultimate controlling party, is also the ultimate controlling party 
of Deacon Street Partners Limited. During the year Deacon Street Partners 
Limited charged the Company in total £139,923 (December 2016 - £108,000). 
Of this, £nil was in relation to directors fees (December 2016 - £10,000) and 
£139,923 relates to management services (December 2016 - £98,000). There 
was £18,000 due to Deacon Street Partners Limited as at 31 December 2017 
(December 2016 - £nil).

On 2 September 2016 the convertible deep discount bond was redeemed 
in full and security was discharged. The redemption price of the bonds was 
£1,755,000 and was satisfied by the payment, in cash to Mr Andrew Weeber, 
of £1,155,000 and the subscription by Mr Weeber in new deep discount bonds 
amounting to £600,000.

On 2 September 2016, the Company issued deep discount bonds with a 
subscription price of £4,073,034 together with 2,036,517 separable warrants 
to subscribe for Ordinary shares at an exercise price of 75 pence per share. 
On 30 June 2017 the Company offered Bondholders the opportunity to 
convert their bonds into new Ordinary shares at an Issue price of 40p. The 
company announced, on 1 August, that it received final acceptances of 
5,136,662 Conversion Offer Shares, raising £2,055,000 and resulting in a 
reduction of the final redemption amount of the deep discount bonds to 
£3,390,000.

Details of related parties who subscribed for the deep discount bonds and 
hold warrants are shown in the tables below:-

Deep Discount Bonds

Subscription 
 Price as at  
2 September 
2016

Accrued 
Discount 
to 31 
December 
2016

Balance 
as at 31 
December  
2016

Accrued  
Discount 
to 31 
December 
2017

Converted  
into 
Ordinary 
shares of  
1p each

Balance 
as at 31 
December  
2017

Name

Lord Ashcroft 
KCMG PC

 2,623,034 

 78,375 

 2,701,409 

 231,373 (1,669,500) 

 1,263,282 

A Weeber

 600,000 

 17,928 

 617,928 

 68,764 

 - 

 686,692 

I Robinson

 100,000 

 2,988 

 102,988 

 6,903 

(109,891) 

Lord 
Arbuthnot PC

M Paul

M Clapp

 10,000 

 10,000 

 299 

 299 

 10,299 

 10,299 

 690 

(10,989) 

 690 

(10,989) 

 10,000 

 299 

 10,299 

 690 

(10,989) 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 3,353,034 

 100,188   3,453,222 

 309,110  (1,812,358)   1,949,974

69 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
Notes forming part of the company 
financial statements continued

11 

 Related party transactions 
(continued)

Warrants

Name

Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC

A Weeber

I Robinson

Lord Arbuthnot PC

M Paul

M Clapp

Held as at  
31 December  
2016 
Number

Held as at  
31 December  
2017 
Number

 1,311,517 

 1,311,517 

 300,000 

 300,000 

 50,000 

 50,000 

 5,000 

 5,000 

 5,000 

 5,000 

 5,000 

 5,000 

 1,676,517 

 1,676,517

On 25 July 2017 Gusbourne PLC issued 42,000 new Ordinary shares of 
1 pence each in the Company to Charlie Holland, Chief Executive Officer 
and 42,000 new Ordinary shares of 1 pence each to Jon Pollard, Chief 
Operating Officer. Further details are shown in note 7 to the Group’s financial 
statements.

On 6 June 2017 a short-term loan from Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC of 
£1,000,000 was received, which was offset against Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC’s 
subscription under the Open Offer which completed on 29 June 2017.

On 31 May 2018, the Company announced that it is intended to arrange a 
subscription of new Ordinary shares in the Company with Lord Ashcroft 
KCMG PC and other investors, which is expected to proceed by 31 July 2018 
(the Subscription).  The proceeds from the Subscription will continue to 
be applied towards working capital and capital expenditure in line with the 
Company’s long-term strategic plan.

In order to meet immediate working capital requirements, the Company 
entered into an agreement on 31 May 2018 with Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC to 
receive an unsecured loan of £1,000,000 (the “Loan Agreement”) which is 
intended to be repaid in full, through conversion into new Ordinary shares 
as part of the Subscription, when it concludes. The loan carries interest for 
a period of 3 months following the date of the loan agreement at the rate of 
7% per annum above the base rate as varied from time to time by Barclays 
Bank plc, and thereafter at 10% per annum. 

12  Subsequent events

70

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017 
 
 
Company information

Country of incorporation of parent company

Solicitors

Fieldfisher LLP 
Free Trade Exchange Level 5 
37 Peter Street 
Manchester 
M2 5GB

Bankers

Barclays Bank PLC 
30 Tower View 
Kings Hill 
Kent 
ME19 4UY

Registrars

Link Asset Services 
34 Beckenham Road 
Beckenham 
Kent 
BR3 4TU

England and Wales

Legal form

Public limited company

Directors

A C V Weeber (Non-Executive Chairman) 
M A K Paul (Non-Executive Deputy Chairman)  
C E Holland (Chief Executive Officer)  
J D Pollard (Chief Operating Officer) 
Lord Arbuthnot PC (Non-Executive Director) 
P G Bentham (Non-Executive Director) 
M D Clapp (Non-Executive Director)  
I G Robinson (Non-Executive Director)

Secretary and registered office

I G Robinson 
Gusbourne 
Kenardington Road 
Appledore 
Ashford 
Kent 
TN26 2BE

Company number

08225727

Auditors

BDO LLP 
55 Baker Street 
London 
W1U 3EU

Nominated adviser and broker

Cenkos Securities PLC 
6.7.8 Tokenhouse Yard 
London 
EC2R 7AS

71 

Gusbourne PLC Report and Financial Statements 2017Jon Pollard (Chief Vineyard Manager and Chief Operating Officer) 
and Charlie Holland (Chief Winemaker and Chief Executive Officer)

Laura Rhys (Global Ambassador)

20160314_Annual_Report_Cover spot UV.pdf   1   17/05/2016   09:36

Gusbourne PLC

Kenardington Road

Appledore

Kent, TN26 2BE England

gusbourneplc.com

gusbourne.com