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Instem plc

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Employees 201-500
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FY2017 Annual Report · Instem plc
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Instem plc

Annual Report

2017

Instem  is  a  leading  provider  of  IT  solutions  &  services  to  the 

life sciences market delivering compelling solutions for Study 

Management  and  Data  Collection;  Regulatory  Solutions  for 

Submissions  and  Compliance;  and  Informatics-based  Insight 

Generation.

Instem solutions are in use by over 500 customers worldwide, 

including all the largest 25 pharmaceutical companies, enabling 

clients to bring life enhancing products to market faster. Instem’s 

portfolio of software solutions increases client productivity by 

automating study-related processes while offering the unique 

ability to generate new knowledge through the extraction and 

harmonisation of actionable scientific information.

Instem  products  and  services  now  address  aspects  of  the 

entire drug development value chain, from discovery through 

to market launch. Management estimate that over 50% of all 

drugs on the market have been through some part of Instem’s 

platform  at  some  stage  of  their  development.  To  learn  more 

about Instem solutions and its mission, please visit instem.com.

Our clients include these fine organisations...

Contents

HIGHLIGHTS

CHAIRMAN’S STATEMENT

STRATEGIC REPORT

FINANCIAL REVIEW

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

DIRECTORS’ REPORT

DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT

DIRECTORS’ RESPONSIBILITIES IN THE PREPARATION OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF INSTEM PLC

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

COMPANY STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

COMPANY STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

CONSOLIDATED AND COMPANY STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

ACCOUNTING POLICIES

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DIRECTORS AND ADVISORS

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Instem plc Annual Report, 2017   

Highlights 

Financial Highlights

• 

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

• 

Revenues increased 19% to £21.7m (2016: £18.3m)
• 

Recurring revenues increased 9% to £12.8m 
(2016: £11.7m)
Software as a Service (SaaS) revenues increased 
10% to £4.4m (2016: £4.0m)

• 

EBITDA* of £3.0m (2016: £1.3m)
Adjusted** profit before tax of £1.9m (2016: £0.7m)
Reported profit before tax of £0.8m (2016: £0.02m)
Basic earnings per share of 6.9p (2016: 6.9p)
Adjusted** fully diluted earnings per share of 13.8p 
(2016: 11.2p)
Net cash balance as at 31 December 2017 of £3.1m 
(2016: £4.2m)

Operational Highlights

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Appointment of Chief Operating Officer, Ms. 
MaryBeth Thompson 
Significant amendment to a contract with the US 
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences 
(NIEHS)
Successfully completed Group-wide re-organisation 
in June 2017 to reduce annualised operational 
overheads by approximately £1.5m or 10%, which:
• 

helped to significantly improve the Group’s 
profitability in the second half of 2017 
•  will deliver a full year benefit in the current 

financial year

Instem’s largest customer brought into operation 
over 700 additional Provantis user licenses during 
2017, delivering enhanced recurring revenue
Successfully completed the integration of Samarind 
& Notocord, acquired in May and September 2016, 
respectively, with a solid contribution to overall 
revenue for the period
Secured two new Alphadas clients in the second half 
of 2017 with a major pharmaceutical company and 
an India-based CRO.

Post period Highlights

• 

Secured the largest SEND outsourced services 
contract win to date with a top five global 
nonclinical CRO that plans to outsource all SEND 
data set generation to Instem

Instem products and services now address 
aspects of the entire drug development value 
chain, from discovery through to market 
launch, and are currently deployed by over 
500 companies, including all of the largest 
25 pharmaceutical companies in the world. 
Management estimate that over 50% of all 
drugs on the market have been through some 
part of the Group’s platform at some stage of 
their development.

While new software license revenue was 
particularly strong in 2017, we also focused 
on opportunities to increase SaaS revenues 
and were very pleased to deliver an increase 
of over 10% during 2017, with both new SaaS 
customers and existing clients switching from 
on-premise to SaaS deployment.

The current financial year has started 
strongly with the largest SEND outsourced 
services contract win to date and one of the 
world’s largest chemical products companies 
converting to the Group’s market leading 
SaaS delivery model. These will deliver 
increased revenue and improved visibility for 
2018 respectively. Furthermore, the recent 
restructuring will deliver the full twelve-month 
benefit in the current year.

The Board therefore looks forward to the 
coming year and beyond with increasing 
optimism on the back of an enhanced delivery 
platform, which promises to deliver significant 
revenue growth, enhanced profitability and 
improved quality of earnings.

P J Reason
Chief Executive

* Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortisation and 
non-recurring income/(costs).

**After adjusting for the effect of foreign currency exchange on the 
revaluation of inter-company balances included in finance income/
(costs), non-recurring items and amortisation of intangibles  on 
acquisitions. Profit is adjusted in this way to provide a clearer 
measure of underlying operating performance.

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017     3

market leadership

“Management estimate that over 50% of all

drugs on the market have been through some

part of the Group’s platform at some stage of their 

development.” 

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Instem plc Annual Report, 2017   

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Chairman’s       
Statement

Our priority in 2017 was to establish the platform for 
the next stage in the development of the Group, both 
operationally and financially. In this regard I am pleased 
to report that we believe that both objectives have been 
achieved. 

Firstly, we have delivered strong financial results with an 
EBITDA of £3.0m (2016: £1.3m) and revenues of £21.7m 
(2016: £18.3m). This has been achieved in a manner that 
has ensured that we have either maintained or improved 
our position in all our targeted sectors, with many of our 
products already established global market leaders in 
their field.

Secondly, and importantly, at the half year we 
restructured and rationalised the operations of the 
various businesses which had been acquired over recent 
years. The efficiencies gained, whilst apparent in the 
second half of the year, will be ongoing for 2018 and 
beyond. In addition, and whilst not directly impacting 
our cost structure in 2017, we also, under the direction 
of Jerry Hacker, our SVP of Global sales, changed the 
emphasis of our global sales towards ‘portfolio sales’ 
of our product suite. This was a move from our previous 
structure of product sales specialists, which was an initial 
and inevitable consequence of the acquisitions we had 
made.

These two structural changes not only enhance our 
organic development plans, but pave the way for the 
integration of potential future acquisitions.

As stated in my half year report in September last year, 
we are now operating in all territories appertaining 
to the global healthcare research sector. We also now 
have leading products, not only in our traditional study 
management areas but also in regulatory solutions and 
informatics.

Whilst we are continuing to address some remaining 
legacy issues in our Clinical business, confidence is 
returning with the achievement of two major new contract 
wins towards the year end.

During the year, some notable achievements in our 
traditional markets were:
• 

Significant further commitment from the US National 
Institute of Environment Health Sciences (“NIEHS”) 
under an existing multi-million-dollar 10-year 
contract

• 

• 

Further growth in our market leadership in Asia-
Pacific, with new clients in China, Japan and South 
Korea and successful cross-selling of additional 
products to existing clients
Increased adoption in major pharma and CROs of 
our new enterprise genetic toxicology solution Cyto 
Study Manager (CSM)

•  Widespread client implementation of Provantis 

version 10, including the world’s largest deployment 
of this type of software at 14 global Charles River 
Laboratories sites

The 2016 acquisitions, Samarind and Notocord, both 
made very positive first full year contributions to the 
Group and both are expected to benefit further in 2018 
from their access to Instem’s global resources. 

Of particular importance during the year was our 
substantive move into ‘technology enabled outsourced 
services’. This included further consolidating our 
dominant market position in the provision of SEND 
technology and services. More recently, post year end, 
it has been particularly pleasing to see demand for 
SEND significantly increase across the industry, further 
justifying our strategy for early leadership in this market 
segment.

Our facility in Pune, India, will be a key ‘skill centre’ for 
this work. Pune has a rich supply of talented staff and a 
highly regarded reputation for technically demanding 
outsourced services. This makes it an ideal location for 
the expansion of our capacity for this type of work.

Finally, and encouragingly, our ‘seed’ informatics 
business, based in Cambridge, had a successful year, more 
than doubling the number of target safety assessment 
(TSA) assignments completed compared to the prior year. 

To provide some measure of success the business has had 
over recent years, and the scale it now has, management 
estimate that over 50% of the drugs on the world market 
have now been through some part of the Instem platform 
at some stage in their development. This market position, 
together with the scalable platform resulting from the 
structural changes implemented last year, means that we 
believe that the Group is now well positioned to continue 
its success in 2018 and beyond.

D Gare
Non-Executive Chairman

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017     5

continued growth

“While new software license revenue was 

particularly strong in 2017, we also focused on 

opportunities to increase SaaS revenues and were 

very pleased to deliver an increase of over 10% 

during 2017.”

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Instem plc Annual Report, 2017   

Strategic       
Report

Strategic Development

The period under review was one of significant 
operational change and strategic progress, resulting in 
record full year revenue and profitability and a strong 
and scalable platform for future growth.

The arrival of our new Chief Operating Officer, MaryBeth 
Thompson at the start of the period, provided the 
opportunity to trigger the next stage of business 
reorganisation and integration. This saw the creation of 
centralised areas of excellence for all key operational 
functions under a new Operations leadership team, 
comprising new hires and existing experienced 
managers. The increased senior management team 
bandwidth has allowed us to analyse the opportunities, 
challenges and threats facing the business and also 
provided valuable insights into the Group’s industry 
position and future opportunities. The process identified 
areas of the business where there was capacity that 
could be redeployed or reduced, and enabled a number 
of out-sourced activities to be more cost-effectively 
delivered in-house using UK and India based resources. 
This has all been achieved whilst ensuring the business 
remained agile and responsive to the dynamic markets in 
which it operates. 

The Group successfully completed a Group-wide 
re-organisation in June 2017 to reduce annualised 
operational overheads by approximately £1.5m or 
10%, which helped to significantly improve the Group’s 
profitability in the second half of 2017 and will deliver a 
full year of benefit in 2018 and beyond.

We believe that Instem is now ‘purpose built’ to deliver 
software and services which address three distinct, but 
complementary, value propositions:

1.  Study Management and Data Collection - efficiently 
capture, analyse and report scientific study data

2. 

Informatics - generate new insights from existing 
large data sets through the application of 
sophisticated big data aggregation and analytics

3.  Regulatory Solutions - help clients ensure 

compliance with global regulators such as the 
FDA and EMA from the early stage of product 
development, through an approved product’s entire 
commercial life

Revenue growth and profit contribution occurred in all of 
these areas of the business and each enhanced its market 
position during the year.

Instem products and services now address aspects of 
the entire drug development value chain, from discovery 
through to market launch and ongoing regulated product 
lifetime management. They are currently deployed by 
over 500 companies, including all of the largest 25 
pharmaceutical companies in the world.

During the period Instem continued to win the majority 
of new business placed in nonclinical, our largest market, 
for both data collection and regulatory solutions, with 
strong year over year revenue growth in both early phase 
clinical and informatics.

While new software license business was particularly 
strong in 2017, we also focused on opportunities to 
increase SaaS revenue and were very pleased to see 
this increase over 10% during 2017 with both new 
SaaS customers and existing clients switching from 
on-premise to SaaS deployment.

Study Management and Data Collection

The global market demand for software that ensures the 
efficient capture, management and reporting of scientific 
force. We are also well-placed to support medical device 
businesses as they implement FDA Unique Device 
Identification (“UDI”) requirements in the USA and start

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017     7

STRATEGIC REPORT

study data remains robust as the number of compounds 
in Research and Development continues to increase. 
According to a recent report from Informa’s Pharma 
Intelligence, a leading industry and market analysis firm, 
the number of compounds in the Global R&D Pipeline 
increased by 2.7% to 15,267 in 2018, its highest ever 
number. We believe that this is due to a number of 
factors, but the overall trend is largely underpinned 
by global population growth and from increasing life 
expectancy, which is unlikely to change over the near-
term.

Importantly, the number of compounds in the R&D 
Pipeline within preclinical and Phase I trials, where 
Instem specialises, has increased year on year by 7.3% 
and 3.0% respectively, indicating a growing potential 
for the Group’s products and services within these 
market segments.

The Group is particularly pleased to report that its 
contract with the NIEHS has progressed well since it was 
first announced in 2013. As anticipated, this 10-year 
contract for the capture, recording and analysis of 
preclinical safety evaluation study data has expanded 
in scope since commencement, with the number of 
locations and the number of authorised users both 
increasing over the period, further demonstrating the 
increasing value of the Group’s software and services to 
the NIEHS.

Our largest customer also brought into operation over 
700 additional Provantis user licenses during 2017, 
triggering enhanced recurring revenue.

Assisted by our mid-2017 restructuring, significant 
software development investment continues to be made 
in Alphadas to ensure that we fully satisfy existing client 
needs and continue to secure a sizeable market share 
in a competitive market.  We were particularly pleased 
to secure two new Alphadas clients in the second half 
of 2017, a major pharmaceutical company and an India 
based CRO, which we anticipate being an important 
reference client in a region with several potential 
additional clients.

Informatics

The KnowledgeScan™ informatics-based service 
was formally launched by the Group in 2016 and has 
developed well in 2017.  It offers the pharmaceutical 
industry insightful new ways to create value from huge 
volumes of public and proprietary scientific health-
related data to reduce the risk and cost of bringing new 
drugs to market.

The initial application of KnowledgeScan™ is for 
Target Safety Assessment (“TSA”), a process routinely 
undertaken at the earlier stages of drug discovery, but 
with continuing value throughout the drug development 
process. Business volume has more than doubled in 
2017, reaching production capacity in most months.  
We have added some resource and TSA capacity has 
been further increased through process automation.  
Repeat business remains encouraging with over 80% of 
customers having already placed additional orders.  

Regulatory Solutions

Regulatory Solutions represent a growing market 
opportunity for Instem with a broad target market 
in Regulatory Information Management (“RIM”) 
and growing demand for our regulatory submission 
related products and services that implement the FDA 
mandated Standard for the Exchange of Nonclinical 
Data.

Regulatory Information Management

Our Samarind RMS RIM product made an excellent first 
full year contribution, with solid recurring revenue 
and the addition of some new client wins. These new 
business orders were received in four niche sectors of 
the RIM market, where we see further opportunity for 
Instem, and were for:

• 

• 
• 
• 

One of the world’s top 10 medical device 
businesses, for the entire Samarind RMS suite
A leading generic medicines supplier
A veterinary health products provider
A European specialist pharma company

Our genetic toxicology solutions continue to dominate 
their market and following the release of our new 
Cyto Study Manager solution, we made new sales into 
existing Instem key pharma and CRO accounts.

The new business sales function was fully integrated 
into our global sales department in 2017, bringing 
additional resources and a consistent sales process and 
management.

The Notocord business acquired in September 2016 
has integrated well and has made a solid contribution 
during the period. Of particular note was a large 
order for the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute 
of Infectious Diseases, however the majority of new 
business generated in this area was from a large number 
of contracts; generally additional modules for existing 
clients, averaging less than £15,000 each.

The industry and regulatory initiative to implement 
an internationally harmonised standard for the 
Identification of Medicinal Products (“IDMP”) has 
been delayed by several years, while the working 
groups finalise the details of the standard and how 
to successfully roll it out. However, it remains of keen 
interest to our current customers and prospects. We 
remain confident, given our leadership in implementing 
the current European standard, that we are well-placed 
to execute on this initiative as and when it comes 

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Instem plc Annual Report, 2017   

FDA request for test data, supporting the development 
of the next version of the standard.

Summary and Outlook 

Instem products and services now address aspects of 
the entire drug development value chain, from discovery 
through to market launch, and are currently deployed 
by over 500 companies, including all of the largest 25 
pharmaceutical companies in the world. Management 
estimate that over 50% of all drugs on the market have 
been through some part of the Group’s platform at some 
stage of their development.

While new software license revenue was particularly 
strong in 2017, we also focused on opportunities to 
increase SaaS revenues and were very pleased to deliver 
an increase of over 10% during 2017, with both new 
SaaS customers and existing clients switching from 
on-premise to SaaS deployment.

The current financial year has started strongly with 
the largest SEND outsourced services contract win to 
date and one of the world’s largest chemical products 
companies converting to the Group’s market leading 
SaaS delivery model. These will deliver increased 
revenue and improved visibility for 2018 respectively. 

Furthermore, the recent restructuring will deliver the 
full twelve-month benefit in the current year.

The Board therefore looks forward to the coming year 
and beyond with increasing optimism on the back of an 
enhanced delivery platform, which promises to deliver 
significant revenue growth, enhanced profitability and 
improved quality of earnings.

On behalf of the Board

P J Reason
Chief Executive

23 April 2018

STRATEGIC REPORT

into the process of responding to the new Medical 
Device Regulations (“MDR”) and In-vitro Diagnostics 
Regulations (“IVDR”) that are being rolled out in Europe.

Standard for the Exchange of Nonclinical Data (“SEND”)

Based on historic regulatory submission volumes, 
Instem anticipates that, to meet mandated FDA 
submission requirements, SEND related market 
expenditure will increase from approximately $10m in 
2016 to around $130m in 2020.  As Instem is currently 
the leading provider of SEND software products and 
technology enabled outsourced services this represents 
a significant growth opportunity.

Instem continues to dominate the SEND technology 
market, with software sales during the period 
predominantly focused on our modules for viewing 
and exploring SEND datasets.  With the first regulatory 
mandate coming into force in December 2016, those 
companies who hadn’t already equipped themselves 
with the technology to create SEND datasets are now 
predominantly looking for out-sourced service providers 
for SEND creation. Whilst we have won the majority 
of out-sourced services contracts, many clients were 
initially slow to provide data for conversion, however 
this picked up during the second half of 2017 and has 
accelerated further in the first quarter of 2018.

During 2017, enquiries for the Group’s SEND software 
solutions and its outsourcing services in particular, 
continued to increase, as the next major milestone 
of the SEND mandate came into effect in December 
2017. This mandate covers shorter duration studies 
that are undertaken in much greater volume, to tighter 
deadlines. As expected, it has generated a significant 
increase in SEND conversion demand.

Instem now has a total of 92 customers that have 
procured the Group’s SEND technology and/or 
out-sourced services, which includes nine of the top 
10 preclinical CROs and 20 of the world’s top 25 global 
pharmaceutical companies. Established SEND-related 
client relationships are expected to be a significant 
source of future business as the volume of out-sourced 
services increases.

During 2017, the Group introduced a new software 
module, SENDTrial™, that will deliver significant 
efficiencies for clients (and our internal Services team) 
by reducing processing time in one specific area by 
up to 80%. This product is the first of its type on the 
market and offers a solution which can be deployed 
alongside Instem’s existing submit™ products, or used 
independently. SENDTrial™ will create additional 
opportunities for Instem as those companies that are 
currently running competing systems cannot efficiently 
meet these specific requirements.

In addition, Instem has released an updated version of 
our submit™ software that enables clients to satisfy an 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017     9

outlook

“The current financial year has started strongly 

with the largest SEND outsourced services 

contract win to date and one of the world’s largest 

chemical products companies converting to the 

Group’s market leading SaaS delivery model.“

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Instem plc Annual Report, 2017   

Financial       
Review

Instem’s revenue model consists of perpetual licence 
income with annual support contracts, professional 
and technology enabled outsourced services fees, and 
SaaS subscriptions with annual support contracts. Total 
revenue for the year to 31 December 2017 increased by 
19% to £21.7m (2016: £18.3m).  This increase includes 
the impact of full year revenues from the prior year 
acquisitions of £2.5m combined with organic growth in 
respect of the majority of our products, and the benefit 
of average exchange rates, which increase the underlying 
revenues. These are offset by costs of our overseas 
subsidiaries. 

A key performance indicator of the Group is recurring 
revenue.  During the year the total recurring revenue, 
from support & maintenance contracts, SaaS based 
subscriptions and annual support fees relating to 
these subscriptions increased by 9% to £12.8m (2016: 
£11.7m), representing 59% of total revenue (2016: 
64%).  This includes recurring revenue generated from 
our 2016 acquisitions of £1.7m (2016: £0.8m).

Another key performance indicator of the Group is the 
number and quality of customers. In 2017 the Group 
had in excess of 500 customers (2016: in excess of 500 
customers) for continuing products including all of the 
largest 25 pharmaceutical companies in the world.

Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and 
amortisation and non-recurring items for the year was 
£3.0m (2016: £1.3m).  

Adjusted profit before tax (i.e. adjusting for the effect 
of foreign currency exchange on the revaluation of 
inter-company balances included in finance costs, 
non-recurring items and amortisation of intangibles on 
acquisitions) was £1.9m (2016: £0.7m).  The unadjusted 
profit before tax for the year was £0.8m (2016: £0.02m).

The non-recurring items in the year included £0.6m 
in respect of the restructuring costs relating to the 
redundancy and legal costs connected with the Group’s 
business reorganisation implemented in the first half of 
2017, together with a cost provision relating to historical 
contract disputes.   The non-recurring items also 
included income of £0.2m in respect of an amendment to 
the deferred contingent consideration payable in respect 
of the Notocord acquisition.

Development costs incurred during the year were 
£3.3m (2016: £2.6m), of which £1.4m (2016: £0.8m) 
was capitalised.  The Group claimed research and 
development tax credits in respect of 2017 of £0.6m 
(2016: £0.4m)

Basic and fully diluted earnings per share calculated on 
an adjusted basis were 14.1p and 13.8p respectively 
(2016: 11.5p basic and 11.2p diluted). 

The Group generated net cash from operating activities 
of £1.4m (2016: £0.1m).  The Group had net cash 
reserves of £3.1m at 31 December 2017, compared with 
£4.2m as at 31 December 2016.  The Group paid £0.7m 
in respect of deferred consideration during the year and 
continued to invest in the software products developed 
by the Group. There is one final deferred consideration 
amount of £0.2m within Current Financial Liabilities in 
respect of prior year acquisitions, which is payable in the 
first half of 2018. 

The Group’s legacy defined benefit pension scheme 
has remained closed to new members since 2000 and 
to future accrual since 2008. It experienced a decrease 
in the funding deficit during the year, calculated in 
accordance with the provisions of IAS19, that amounted 
to £0.8m (net of deferred tax) (2016: increase in funding 
deficit £0.7m) due to gains on the pension scheme 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017     11

FINANCIAL REVIEW

assets in excess of interest.  This is mainly a non-cash 
credit and was recognised in Other Comprehensive 
Income/(Expense). The overall deficit at the year-end 
stood at £3.8m (2016: £4.7m), represented by the 
fair value of assets of £10.8m (2016: £9.7m) and the 
present value of funded obligations of £14.6m (2016: 
£14.4m). As part of the scheme’s triennial actuarial 
valuation as at 5 April 2014, the Group agreed in June 
2015 a schedule of payments to the scheme designed 
to eliminate the funding deficit by November 2023.  
The next triennial valuation will be calculated as at 5 
April 2017, the results of which will be reported in the 
Group’s 2018 Interim financial statements.

Principal Risks and Uncertainties

The directors consider that the global pharmaceutical 
market is likely to continue to provide growth 
opportunities for the business. The combination of the 
high level of annual support renewals and low levels 
of customer attrition provides revenue visibility to 
underpin the Group strategy on product and market 
development. The Group seeks to mitigate exposure 
to all forms of risk through a combination of regular 
performance review and a comprehensive insurance 
programme.

The global nature of the market means that the Group 
is exposed to currency risk as a consequence of a 
significant proportion of its revenue being earned in US 
Dollars, some of which is mitigated by operating costs 
incurred by its US operation.  The Group continually 
assesses the most appropriate approach to managing 
its currency exposure in line with the overall goal of 
achieving predictable earnings growth.

The Group’s credit risk is primarily attributable to its 
trade receivables and the Group has policies in place to 
ensure that sales of products and services are made to 
customers with appropriate creditworthiness. 

The Group has identified the risk of cyber security and 
breach of information as a principal risk. The Group 
mitigates against this risk with compliance to ISO 27001 
certified processes, strong IT controls and specific cyber 
insurance. 

The Group manages liquidity risk through regular 
cash flow forecasting and monitoring of cash flows, 
management review and regular review of working 
capital and costs.  The Group regularly monitors its 
available headroom under its borrowing facilities.  At 31 
December 2017, its £2.0m bank facility was undrawn 
(2016: £2.0m undrawn).

N J Goldsmith
Chief Financial Officer

12 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017   

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

David Gare
Non-executive Chairman
David was a founder member of the Company’s former parent, Instem Limited, and led the resulting 
businesses through most of their history. David successfully achieved a succession of strategic 
developments for Instem Limited, including its sale to Kratos Inc. in 1976, its MBO in 1983, its flotation on 
the USM in 1984, its flotation on the Official List in 1996, its public to private and demerger in 1998 and 
the buyout of Instem LSS Limited from Alchemy Partners in 2002. Throughout, David has concentrated on 
value creation through achievement of a strong market position. 

Phil Reason
Chief Executive Officer
Phil is an experienced chief executive who has developed a number of IT businesses in the life sciences 
and nuclear industries, both organically and through acquisition. Phil joined the former parent Company, 
Instem Limited, in 1982 and was appointed Managing Director of the Life Sciences division in 1995 and 
Chief Executive Officer of Instem LSS Limited on the demerger from Instem Limited. Given the importance 
of the North American market to Instem’s organic and acquisitive growth, Phil relocated from the UK to 
the US in 2003 and established a new headquarters in the Philadelphia area. Phil previously ran Instem 
Limited’s Nuclear and Laboratory Information Management Systems integration businesses.

Nigel Goldsmith
Chief Financial Officer
Nigel, who joined Instem in November 2011, has a wealth of experience in senior financial roles, at 
both public and private companies within the pharmaceutical industry. After qualifying as a Chartered 
Accountant, Nigel spent over nine years at KPMG prior to moving into industry. Nigel was Finance Director 
for three years at AIM listed, pharmaceutical and medical company, IS Pharma plc. He also spent a seven-
year tenure as CFO at Almedica International Inc, a privately held supplier of clinical trial materials to the 
pharmaceutical and biotech industry in Europe and the US and two years as European Controller for the 
sales and marketing division of laboratory equipment manufacturer, Life Sciences International plc.

Mike McGoun
Non-executive Director
Mike has a wealth of management experience within the IT industry. He spent 10 years at IBM prior to 
co-founding a successful ComputerLand franchise in 1984. In 1994, Mike moved to SkillsGroup plc as a 
main board director, with responsibility for corporate development and later as a non-executive director. 
Mike was founder and non-executive Chairman of Tikit Group plc prior to its disposal to BT plc in 2012. 

David Sherwin
Non-executive Director
David is a qualified Management Accountant and holds an MBA from Staffordshire University. He joined 
Instem Limited as a trainee accountant in 1973 and was appointed Chief Financial Officer in 1979. He has 
worked closely with David Gare on all of the subsequent transactions involving Instem Limited and Instem 
LSS Limited including participating in the management buyout of Instem Limited in 1983, the flotation on 
the USM in 1984, the flotation on the Official List in 1996 and the demerger of the business in 1998.

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017     13

s
t
r
o
p
e
r

14 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT 

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

Audit Committee

Given the size of the Group the Board has decided to follow 
the code issued by the Quoted Companies Alliance as a 
framework as it seeks to maintain a strong governance 
ethos throughout the Group.  The Board recognises its 
overall responsibility for the Group’s systems of internal 
control and for monitoring their effectiveness. 

The main features of the Group’s corporate governance 
procedures are as follows:

a. 

b. 

c. 

d. 

the Board has one independent non-executive director 
who takes an active role in Board matters;
the Group has an Audit Committee, a Remuneration 
Committee and a Nomination Committee, each of 
which consists of the non-executive directors, and 
meets regularly with executive directors in attendance 
by invitation. The Audit Committee has unrestricted 
access to the Group’s auditor and ensures that auditor 
independence has not been compromised;
all business activity is organised within a defined 
structure with formal lines of responsibility and 
delegation of authority, including a schedule of 
“matters referred to the Board”; and
regular monitoring of key performance indicators and 
financial results together with comparison of these 
against expectations.

Attendance at Board and Committee 
Meetings 

Attendances of directors at Board and Committee meetings 
convened in the period, along with the number of meetings 
they were invited to attend, are set out below:

The Audit Committee comprises M F McGoun (Chairman), 
D Gare and D M Sherwin, all of whom are non-executive 
directors of the Company. The Board is satisfied that the 
Audit Committee has all the recent and relevant financial 
experience required to fulfil the role. 

Appointments to the Audit Committee are made by the 
Board in consultation with the Nomination Committee and 
the chairman of the Audit Committee.  The Audit Committee 
meets at least twice a year and any other time as required 
by either the chairman of the Audit Committee, the Chief 
Financial Officer of the Group or the external auditor of 
the Group.  In addition, the Audit Committee shall meet 
with the external auditor of the Group (without any of 
the executives attending) at any time during the year as it 
deems fit. 

The Audit Committee:

a.  monitors the financial reporting and internal financial 

control principles of the Group;

b.  maintains appropriate relationships with the external 

auditor including considering the appointment and 
remuneration of the external auditor and reviews and 
monitors the external auditor’s independence and 
objectivity and the effectiveness of the audit process;
reviews all financial results of the Group and financial 
statements, including all announcements in respect 
thereof before submission of the relevant documents 
to the Board;
reviews and discusses (where necessary) any issues 
and recommendations of the external auditor including 
reviewing the external auditor’s management letter 
and management’s response;
considers all major findings of internal operational 
audit reviews and management’s response to ensure 
co-ordination between internal and external auditor;
reviews the Board’s statement on internal reporting 
systems and keeps the effectiveness of such systems 
under review; and
considers all other relevant findings and audit 
programmes of the Group.

c. 

d. 

e. 

f. 

g. 

No. of meetings attended / No. of meetings invited to attend

Board meetings

Audit 
Committee

Remuneration 
Committee

Nomination 
Committee

Executive directors

P J Reason

N J Goldsmith

Non-Executive directors

D Gare

D M Sherwin

M F McGoun

10/10

10/10

10/10

10/10

10/10

2/2

2/2

2/2

2/2

2/2

4/4

1/1

4/4

4/4

4/4

0/0

0/0

1/1

1/1

1/1

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017     15

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

Audit Committee (continued)

The Audit Committee is authorised to:
a. 

investigate any activity within its terms of 
reference;
seek any information it requires from any employee 
of the Group; and
obtain, at the Group’s expense, outside legal or 
other independent professional advice and to 
secure the attendance of such persons to meetings 
as it considers necessary and appropriate.

b. 

c. 

Remuneration Committee

The Remuneration Committee comprises M F McGoun 
(Chairman), D Gare and D M Sherwin, all of whom are 
non-executive directors of the Company.

The members of the Remuneration Committee are 
appointed by the Board on recommendation from 
the Nomination Committee, in consultation with the 
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee.  The Chief 
Executive Officer of the Group is normally invited to 
meetings of the Remuneration Committee to discuss 
the performance of other executive directors but is not 
involved in any of the decisions.  The Remuneration 
Committee invites any person it thinks appropriate to 
join the members of the Remuneration Committee at its 
meetings.  The Remuneration Committee meets at least 
once a year and any other time as required by either the 
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee or the Chief 
Financial Officer of the Group.

The Remuneration Committee:

a. 

b. 

c. 

ensures that the executive directors are fairly 
rewarded for their individual contributions to 
the overall performance of the Group but also 
ensures that the Group avoids paying more than is 
necessary for this purpose;
considers the remuneration packages of the 
executive directors and any recommendations 
made by the Chief Executive Officer for changes to 
their remuneration packages including in respect 
of bonuses (including associated performance 
criteria), other benefits, pension arrangements 
and other terms of their service contracts and any 
other matters relating to the remuneration of or 
terms of employment applicable to the executive 
directors that may be referred to the Remuneration 
Committee by the Board;
oversees and reviews all aspects of the Group’s 
share option schemes including the selection of 
eligible directors and other employees and the 
terms of any options granted;

d.  demonstrates to the Group’s shareholders that the 
remuneration of the executive directors is set by an 
independent committee of the Board; and
considers and makes recommendations to the 
Board about the public disclosure of information 
about the executive directors’ remuneration 

e. 

16 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017   

packages and structures in addition to those 
required by law or by the London Stock Exchange.

The Chairman of the Remuneration Committee 
reports formally to the Board on its proceedings after 
each meeting on all matters within its duties and 
responsibilities. The Remuneration Committee produces 
an annual report which is included in the Group’s annual 
report and accounts.

The Remuneration Committee is authorised to:

a. 

b. 

c. 

investigate any activity within its terms of 
reference;
seek any information it requires from any employee 
of the Group;
assess the remuneration paid by other UK listed 
companies of a similar size in any comparable 
industry sector and to assess whether changes 
to the executive directors’ remuneration is 
appropriate for the purpose of making their 
remuneration competitive or otherwise comparable 
with the remuneration paid by such companies; and

d.  obtain, at the Group’s expense, outside legal or 

other independent professional advice, including 
independent remuneration consultants, when the 
Remuneration Committee reasonably believes it 
is necessary to do so and secure the attendance of 
such persons to meetings as it considers necessary 
and appropriate. 

Nomination Committee

The Nomination Committee comprises D Gare 
(Chairman), M F McGoun and D M Sherwin, all of whom 
are non-executive directors of the Company.

Appointments to the Nomination Committee are made 
by the Board, in consultation with the Chairman of the 
Nomination Committee. 

The Nomination Committee may invite any person 
it thinks appropriate to join the members of the 
Nomination Committee at its meetings. 

The Nomination Committee:

a. 

reviews the structure, size and composition 
(including skills, knowledge and experience) 
required of the Board compared to its current 
position and makes recommendations to the Board 
with regard to any changes;

b.  gives full consideration to succession planning for 
directors and other senior executives in the course 
of its work, taking into account the challenges and 
opportunities facing the Group, and what skills and 
expertise are needed on the Board in the future;
is responsible for identifying and nominating for 
the approval of the Board, candidates to fill Board 
vacancies as and when they arise; and

c. 

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

Nomination Committee (continued)

Internal Controls

The directors are responsible for establishing and 
maintaining the Group’s system of internal control 
and reviewing its effectiveness. The system of internal 
control is designed to manage rather than eliminate the 
risk of failure to achieve business objectives and can 
only provide reasonable but not absolute assurance 
against material misstatement or loss.

The Board and senior executives meet to review 
both the risks facing the business and the controls 
established to minimise those risks and their 
effectiveness in operation on an ongoing basis. The aim 
of these reviews is to provide reasonable assurance 
that material risks and problems are identified and 
appropriate action taken at an early stage.

On behalf of the Board

M F McGoun
Independent Non-Executive Director

d.  evaluates the balance of skills, knowledge and 

experience on the Board before an appointment 
is made and, in light of this evaluation, prepares a 
description of the role and capabilities required for 
a particular appointment.

The Chairman of the Nomination Committee reports 
formally to the Board on its proceedings after 
each meeting on all matters within its duties and 
responsibilities. 

The Nomination Committee also makes 
recommendations to the Board concerning:

a. 

formulating plans for succession for both executive 
and non-executive directors and in particular 
the key roles of Chairman of the Board and Chief 
Executive Officer;

b.  membership of the Audit and Remuneration 

c. 

d. 

Committees, in consultation with the chairmen of 
those committees;
the re-appointment of any non-executive director 
at the conclusion of their specified term of office 
having given due regard to their performance and 
ability to continue to contribute to the Board in 
the light of the knowledge, skills and experience 
required;
the re-election by shareholders of any director 
under the “retirement by rotation” provisions in 
the Company’s articles of association having due 
regard to their performance and ability to continue 
to contribute to the Board in the light of the 
knowledge, skills and experience required;

e.  matters relating to the continuation in office of any 
director at any time including the suspension or 
termination of service of an executive director as 
an employee of the Group subject to the provisions 
of the law and his/her service contract; and
the appointment of any director to executive or 
other office other than to the positions of Chairman 
of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, the 
recommendation for which would be considered at 
a meeting of the full Board.

f. 

The Nomination Committee is authorised to:

a. 

b. 

c. 

d. 

investigate any activity within its terms of 
reference;
seek any information it requires from any 
employee;
obtain outside legal or other independent 
professional advice at the Group’s expense when 
the Nomination Committee reasonably believes it is 
necessary to do so; and
instruct external professional advisors to attend 
any meeting at the Group’s expense if the 
Nomination Committee considers this reasonably 

necessary and appropriate.

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017     17

DIRECTORS’ REPORT

DIRECTORS’ REPORT

Directors

The directors submit their report and the Group and 
Company financial statements of Instem plc for the year 
ended 31 December 2017.

Instem plc is a public limited company, incorporated and 
domiciled in England, and quoted on AIM.

Principal Activities

Instem is a leading supplier of IT applications to the 
life sciences market, delivering compelling solutions 
for data collection, management and analysis across 
the R&D continuum. Instem applications are in use by 
customers worldwide, meeting the rapidly expanding 
needs of life science and healthcare organisations for 
data-driven decision making leading to safer, more 
effective products.

Instem’s portfolio of software solutions increases client 
productivity by automating study-related processes 
while offering the unique ability to generate new 
knowledge through the extraction and harmonisation of 
actionable scientific information.

Review of the Business

A detailed review of the development and performance 
of the Group’s business during the year and its position 
at the end of the year is set out in the Chairman’s 
Statement, the Strategic Report and Financial Review on 
pages 5 to 12.

Future Developments

The directors consider that the continued investment in 
product and market development will allow the business 
to grow organically in its core markets. Investment in 
business growth initiatives will also allow the business 
to move into new product and market areas. The 
combination of organic growth along with strategic 
acquisitions will support the expected growth as 
outlined in the Chairman’s Statement and the Strategic 
Report.

The following directors held office during the year:

D Gare
M F McGoun
D M Sherwin
P J Reason
N J Goldsmith 

Details of the directors’ service contracts and their 
respective notice terms are detailed in the Directors’ 
Remuneration report on pages 20 and 21. 

Directors and their Interests

The interests of the directors who held office at 31 
December 2017 and up to the date of this report (2016: 
as at 12 April 2017) were as follows:

No. of Shares

2017

2016

D Gare

1,258,427

1,418,427

D M Sherwin

1,380,066

1,380,066

P J Reason

665,287

665,287

M F McGoun

36,786

36,786

N J Goldsmith

-

-

Directors’ interests in share options are detailed in the 
Remuneration report on pages 20 and 21.

Employee Involvement

The general policy of the Group is to welcome employee 
involvement as far as it is reasonably practicable. 
Employees are kept informed of progress by regular 
company meetings and monthly management reports. 

Political Donations

Research and Development Activities

The Group made no political donations in 2017 or 2016.

The Group continues its development programme of 
software for the global pharmaceutical market including 
the research and development of new products and 
enhancement to existing products. The directors 
consider the investment in research and development 
to be fundamental to the success of the business in the 
future.

Financial Instruments

The Group’s objectives and policies on financial 
instruments are set out in note 20 to the financial 
statements.

Indemnity of Officers and Directors

Dividends

The directors do not recommend the payment of a 
dividend.

Under the Company’s Articles of Association and subject 
to the provisions of the Companies Act, the Group may 
and has indemnified all directors and other officers 
against liability incurred in the execution or discharge 
of their duties or the exercise of their powers, including 

18 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017   

DIRECTORS’ REPORT

but not limited to any liability for the costs of any legal 
proceedings. The Group has purchased and maintains 
appropriate insurance cover against legal action brought 
against directors or officers.

Annual General Meeting

The Annual General Meeting of the Company will be 
held on 24 May 2018 at the offices of RSM UK Audit LLP, 
3 Hardman Street, Manchester, M3 3HF.  The resolutions 
to be proposed at the Annual General Meeting, 
together with explanatory notes, appear in a separate 
notice of Annual General Meeting which is sent to all 
shareholders. A proxy card for registered shareholders is 
distributed along with the notice.

Statement as to Disclosure of Information 
to Auditor

The directors who were in office on the date of approval 
of these financial statements have confirmed, as 
far as they are aware, that there is no relevant audit 
information of which the auditor is unaware.  Each of 
the directors has confirmed that they have taken all 
the steps that they ought to have taken as directors 
in order to make themselves aware of any relevant 
audit information and to establish that it has been 
communicated to the auditor.

Auditor

Pursuant to s489 of the Companies Act 2006, a 
resolution to re-appoint RSM UK Audit LLP as auditor 
will be put to the members at the forthcoming Annual 
General Meeting.

On behalf of the Board

P J Reason
Director 

23 April 2018

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017     19

DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT

DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT

Performance Related Annual Bonus

Executive directors are eligible for a performance 
related bonus based on Group performance, in 
particular, the achievement of profit targets.  The 
performance related annual bonus forms a significant 
part of the level of remuneration considered 
appropriate by the Committee.  In addition to the formal 
bonus scheme, the Committee has the discretion to 
recommend the payment of ad hoc awards to reflect 
exceptional performance. Bonuses amounting to £nil 
were payable to executive directors in respect of the 
year ended 31 December 2017 (2016: £0.02m).

Pensions

Company contributions are made to the executive 
directors’ personal pension schemes up to a maximum 
of 16.5% of basic salary.

Benefits

Benefits comprise car and fuel allowance, private 
healthcare and critical illness cover.  No executive 
director receives additional remuneration or benefits in 
relation to being a director of the Board of the Company 
or any subsidiary of the Company.

Service Contracts

The Executive directors have contracts with notice 
periods between six and twelve months.

The Board determines the Group’s policy on 
non-executive directors’ remuneration.

D Gare, D M Sherwin and M F McGoun each have a 
letter of appointment that had an initial three year 
term commencing October 2010. These were renewed 
in December 2013, each with a notice period of 
three months. Since October 2013 M F McGoun has 
been remunerated through a service company, Noble 
Adamson Limited.

Instem plc is a company listed on AIM and it is not 
required to comply with Schedule 8 of the Large 
and Medium Sized Companies and Groups (Accounts 
and Reports) Regulations 2008 relating to directors’ 
remuneration reports or the Listing Rules.  The 
disclosures contained within this report are, therefore, 
made on a voluntary basis and in keeping with the 
Board’s commitment to best practice.

Remuneration Committee

The Remuneration Committee (‘the Committee’) is 
composed entirely of non-executive directors. The 
Committee was formed upon the public listing of the 
Company on 13 October 2010.  The Chairman of the 
Committee is M F McGoun.  The terms of reference for 
the Committee are to determine the Group’s policy on 
executive remuneration and to consider and approve the 
remuneration packages for directors and key executives 
of the Group, subject to ratification by the Board.  During 
the year, the Committee met on four occasions.  Full 
details of the elements of each director’s remuneration 
are set out on the following page.  Details of share-
based payment are shown in note 7 to the financial 
statements.

Policy on Executive Director 
Remuneration

The Group’s current and ongoing policy aims to 
ensure that executive directors are rewarded fairly 
for their individual contributions to the Group’s 
overall performance and is designed to attract, retain 
and motivate executives of the right calibre.  The 
Committee is responsible for recommendations on 
all elements of executive remuneration including, in 
particular, basic salary, annual bonus, share options 
and any other incentive awards.  In implementing 
the remuneration policy, the Committee has regard 
to factors specific to the Group, such as salary and 
other benefit arrangements within the Group and the 
achievement of the Group’s strategic objectives.  The 
Committee determines the Group’s Policy on executive 
remuneration with reference to comparable companies 
of similar market capitalisation, location and business 
sector.

Basic Salary

The basic salaries of executive directors are reviewed 
annually having regard to individual performance 
and position within the Group and are intended to be 
competitive but fair using information provided from 
both internal and external sources.

20 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT

The emoluments paid or payable to directors in respect of the year ended 31 December 2017 were as follows: 

Salary and Bonus
£000

Benefits
£000

Pension
£000

2017 Total
£000

2016 Total
£000

Executives

P J Reason*

N J Goldsmith

Non-executives

D Gare

D M Sherwin

M F McGoun

210

116

60

30

30

Total

446

7

7

-

-

-

14

29

11

-

-

-

40

246

134

60

30

30

500

241

134

52

30

30

487

* The remuneration in respect of P J Reason is payable in US Dollars and translated at the average rates as disclosed on page 34.

Directors’ and Employees’ Share Options

Exercise 
price (£)

Issue date

Held at 31 
Dec 2016

Granted 
during Year

Exercised 
during Year

Lapsed 
during Year

Held at 31 
Dec 2017

P J Reason
Ordinary 
shares

N J Goldsmith
Ordinary 
shares

Employees
Ordinary 
shares

1.750
0.900
0.100

2.215
1.760
0.900
0.100

1.750
2.220
2.220
1.115
0.900
0.100
0.100
0.100
0.100
0.100
0.100

13/10/2010
14/01/2013
29/07/2015

187,427
23,429
112,500

29/11/2011
07/02/2012
14/01/2013
29/07/2015

13/10/2010
03/03/2011
17/10/2011
23/10/2012
14/01/2013
11/02/2015
29/07/2015
21/11/2015
27/05/2016
19/09/2016
03/05/2017

40,000
20,000
15,000
75,000

253,026
93,844
14,667
21,500
49,800
40,584
150,000
25,258
34,558
52,500
-

-
-
-

-
-
-
-

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
20,000

-
-
-

-
-
-
-

-
-
-
(21,500)
(5,154)
-
-
-
-
-
-

-
-
(18,750)

-
-
-
(12,500)

-
-
-
-
-
-
(25,000)
-
(12,959)
(30,000)
(5,000)

187,427
23,429
93,750

304,606

40,000
20,000
15,000
62,500

137,500

253,026
93,844
14,667
-
44,646
40,584
125,000
25,258
21,599
22,500
15,000

656,124

Total

1,209,093

20,000

(26,654)

(104,209)

1,098,230

Subsequent to the year end, on 22 February 2018, 400,000 share options were granted to directors and employees.

Approved by the Board and signed on its behalf by:
M F McGoun
Independent Non-Executive Director

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017     21

DIRECTORS’ RESPONSIBILITIES IN THE PREPARATION OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

integrity of the corporate and financial information 
included on the Instem plc website.

Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the 
preparation and dissemination of financial statements 
may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

DIRECTORS’ RESPONSIBILITIES IN 
THE PREPARATION OF FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

The directors are responsible for preparing the Strategic 
Report and the Directors’ Report and the financial 
statements in accordance with applicable law and 
regulations.

Company law requires the directors to prepare Group 
and Company financial statements for each financial 
year.  The directors are required by the AIM Rules of 
the London Stock Exchange to prepare Group financial 
statements in accordance with International Financial 
Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as adopted by the 
European Union (“EU”) and have elected under Company 
law to prepare the Company financial statements in 
accordance with IFRS as adopted by the EU.

The financial statements are required by law and 
IFRS adopted by the EU to present fairly the financial 
position of the Group and the Company and the financial 
performance of the Group. The Companies Act 2006 
provides in relation to such financial statements that 
references in the relevant part of that Act to financial 
statements giving a true and fair view are references to 
their achieving a fair presentation.

Under Company law the directors must not approve the 
financial statements unless they are satisfied that they 
give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the 
Group and the Company and of the profit or loss of the 
Group for that period. 

In preparing the Group and Company financial 
statements, the directors are required to:

a. 

select suitable accounting policies and then apply 
them consistently;

b.  make judgements and accounting estimates that 

c. 

are reasonable and prudent;
state whether they have been prepared in 
accordance with IFRSs adopted by the EU;
d.  prepare the financial statements on the going 

concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume 
that the Group and the Company will continue in 
business.

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

The directors are responsible for the maintenance and 

22 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT to the members Of instem plc

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO 
THE MEMBERS OF INSTEM PLC

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Instem plc 
(the ‘parent company’) and its subsidiaries (the ‘group’) 
for the year ended 31 December 2017 which comprise 
the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income, 
Consolidated Statement of Financial Position, Company 
Statement of Financial Position, Consolidated Statement 
of Cashflows, Company Statement of Cashflows, 
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity, 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 their preparation 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 profit 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 and parent 
company in accordance with the ethical requirements 
that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements 
in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard as 
applied to SME 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 judgment, were of most significance in 
our audit of the financial statements of the current 
period and include the most significant assessed risks of 
material misstatement (whether or not due to fraud) we 
identified, including those which had the greatest effect 
on the overall audit strategy, the allocation of resources 
in the audit and directing the efforts of the engagement 
team. These matters were addressed in the context of 
our audit of the financial statements as a whole, and in 
forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a 
separate opinion on these matters.

Revenue recognition

Refer to page 33 regarding the accounting policy in 
respect of revenue recognition and note 1 to the financial 
statements on page 38.

The risk

Appropriate and accurate income recognition is required 
to be applied by the Directors to ensure that revenue 
is recognised in accordance with IAS 18 Revenue 
within the financial statements. There is a risk that 
revenue could be inappropriately recognised based 
on the differing recognition policies for product type. 
In the year to 31 December 2017 revenue recognised 
amounted to £21.7m (2016: £18.3m).

Our response

We have conducted audit work on each revenue stream, 
tested a sample of customer revenues back to signed 
agreements and accounting standards for the revenue 
stream, and performed additional cut-off testing on 
key revenue streams in order to identify any areas of 
material misstatement.  We have also reviewed the 
treatment of new or revised contracts alongside the 
requirements of IAS 18.

Provisions

Refer to page 36 regarding the accounting policy in 
respect of provisions, page 37 in respect of critical 
judgements and estimates applied by the Directors and 
note 23 on page 64.

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017     23

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT to the members Of instem plc

The risk

The directors are required to apply the requirements of 
IAS 37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent 
Assets within the financial statements. There is a risk 
that the judgement in recognising the provision made 
by management in respect of any such provisions do not 
fulfil the recognition criteria, furthermore estimation 
is required by management for the value at the period 
end. At 31 December 2017 provisions amounting to 
£0.25m (2016: £nil) have been recognised.

Our response

We have obtained all communications in respect of 
items provided including legal correspondence obtained 
by the board. We have challenged the appropriateness 
of advice relied upon by Instem plc including 
considerations of the qualifications of their legal 
advisors.  Where assumptions have been made by the 
groups legal advisors received based on representations 
made by the Board we have challenged these and 
obtained support.  We have audited the underlying basis 
for the estimates made by management at the year end 
and have assessed its recognition against the accounting 
standards criteria.

Carrying value of Company investments

Refer to page 36 regarding the accounting policy in 
respect of investments, page 37 in respect of critical 
judgements and estimates applied by the Directors and 
note 11 on page 46.

The risk

The Company has material investments in subsidiary 
undertakings which may not be supported by their 
trading levels.  As a consequence, there is a significant 
risk that these are impaired and need to be written 
down. At the 31 December 2017, the carrying value of 
these investments amounted to £28.7m (2016: £28.4m) 
in the Company Statement of Financial Position. 

Our response 

We identified investments in each subsidiary 
undertaking and discussed with management whether 
each balance was supportable taking into account the 
strategic plans established by the board in respect 
of each subsidiary undertaking.   We also obtained 
management’s impairment review and underlying 
calculations prepared to support the carrying value of 
the investments. We reviewed forecasts and considered 
whether they were consistent with the forecasts 
prepared by management in relation to going concern.  
In addition, we reviewed the assumptions utilised in the 
model and agreed a sample of these back to supporting 
information. 

Our application of materiality

When establishing our overall audit strategy, we set 
certain thresholds which help us to determine the 
nature, timing and extent of our audit procedures and to 
evaluate the effects of misstatements, both individually 
and on the financial statements as a whole. During 
planning we determined a magnitude of uncorrected 
misstatements that we judge would be material for the 
financial statements as a whole (FSM). During planning 
FSM was calculated as £235,000, this was changed 
during the course of our audit to £311,000. We agreed 
with the Audit Committee that we would report to them 
all unadjusted differences in excess of £2,500, as well 
as differences below those thresholds that, in our view, 
warranted reporting on qualitative grounds.

An overview of the scope of our audit

Eight of the Group’s components were subject to 
full scope audit procedures for group and statutory 
reporting purposes. We did not rely on the work of 
any component auditors. As part of our planning we 
assessed the risk of material misstatement including 
those that required significant auditor consideration at 
the component and group level. Procedures were then 
performed to address the risk identified and for the 
most significant assessed risks of material misstatement, 
the procedures performed are outlined above in the key 
audit matters section of this report.

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 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.

24 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT to the members Of instem plc

Opinions on other matters prescribed by 
the Companies Act 2006

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of 
the financial statements

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

• 

• 

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

Matters on which we are required to 
report by exception

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.

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the 
group and the parent company and their environment 
obtained in the course of the audit, we have not 
identified material misstatements in the Strategic 
Report or the Directors’ Report.

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

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.

GRAHAM BOND FCA (Senior Statutory Auditor)
For and on behalf of RSM UK AUDIT LLP, Statutory Auditor 
Chartered Accountants
14th Floor
Chapel Street
Liverpool
L3 9AG

24 April 2018

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

• 

• 

• 

adequate accounting records have not been kept 
by the parent company, or returns adequate for our 
audit have not been received from branches not 
visited by us; or
the parent company financial statements 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 page 22, 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.

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017     25

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME for the year ended 31 December 2017

CONTINUING OPERATIONS

 Note

1

2

2

3

4

5

9

REVENUE 

Operating expenses

Share based payment

EARNINGS BEFORE INTEREST, TAXATION, DEPRECIATION, AMORTISATION 

AND NON-RECURRING COSTS (‘EBITDA’)

Depreciation

Amortisation of intangibles arising on acquisition

Amortisation of internally generated intangibles

PROFIT BEFORE NON-RECURRING (COSTS)/INCOME

Non-recurring (costs)/income

PROFIT AFTER NON-RECURRING (COSTS)/INCOME AND BEFORE FINANCE 

INCOME/(COSTS)

Finance income

Finance costs

PROFIT BEFORE TAXATION

Taxation 

PROFIT FOR THE YEAR

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME/(EXPENSE)

Items that will not be reclassified to profit and loss account:

Actuarial gain/(loss) on retirement benefit obligations

Deferred tax on actuarial (gain)/loss

Items that may be reclassified to profit and loss account:

Exchange differences on translating foreign operations

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE EXPENSE FOR THE YEAR

TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE YEAR

PROFIT ATTRIBUTABLE TO OWNERS OF THE PARENT COMPANY

TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO OWNERS OF THE PARENT 

COMPANY

Earnings per share from continuing operations

attributable to owners of the parent company:

Basic

Diluted

25

25

Year ended
 31 December 
2017
£000

Year ended
31 December 
2016
£000

21,668

(18,549)

18,319

(16,843)

(157)

2,962

(186)

(931)

(473)

1,372

(443)

929

186

(318)

797

297

1,094

664

(113)

551

(565)

(14)

1,080

1,094

1,080

6.9p

6.8p

(223)

1,253

(156)

(667)

(380)

50

619

669

-

(646)

23

1,035

1,058

(1,192)

215

(977)

844

(133)

925

1,058

925

6.9p

6.8p

26 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AT 31 DECEMBER 2017

Note

£000

£000

£000

£000

2017

2016

ASSETS

NON-CURRENT ASSETS

Intangible assets

Property, plant and equipment

Deferred tax assets

TOTAL NON-CURRENT ASSETS

CURRENT ASSETS

Inventories

Trade and other receivables

Current tax receivable

Financial asset

Cash and cash equivalents

TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS

TOTAL ASSETS

LIABILITIES

CURRENT LIABILITIES

10

12

21

13

14

18

15

16

Trade and other payables

17

Deferred income

Current tax payable

Financial liabilities

TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES

NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES

Financial liabilities

Retirement benefit obligations

Provision for liabilities and charges

TOTAL NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES

TOTAL LIABILITIES

EQUITY 

Share capital

Share premium

Merger reserve

Shares to be issued

Translation reserve

Retained earnings

18

19

19

22

23

24

26

26

26

26

26

17,440

299

300

29

9,470

1,267

-

3,064

2,777

10,370

226

220

51

3,750

250

1,589

12,488

1,598

794

483

(2,727)

17,607

374

947

18,039

18,928

13,830

31,869

916

6,899

-

10

4,189

2,670

9,092

429

979

12,014

30,942

13,593

13,170

4,051

17,644

4,988

18,158

242

4,746

-

1,577

12,462

1,432

864

1,048

(4,599)

TOTAL EQUITY ATTRIBUTABLE TO OWNERS OF THE PARENT

TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 

14,225

31,869

12,784

30,942

The financial statements on pages 26 to 68 were approved by the board of directors and authorised for issue on 23 April 2018 
and are signed on its behalf by:

P J Reason 
Director   

N J Goldsmith
Director 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017    27

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COMPANY STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AT 31 DECEMBER 2017

Note

2017           

2016

ASSETS

£000

£000

£000

£000

NON-CURRENT ASSETS

Investments

11

28,711

28,426

TOTAL NON-CURRENT ASSETS

28,711

28,426

CURRENT ASSETS

Trade and other receivables

Financial asset

Cash and cash equivalents

TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS

TOTAL ASSETS

LIABILITIES

CURRENT LIABILITIES

Trade and other payables

Financial liabilities

TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES

NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES

14

15

16

17

19

2,246

-

1,036

3,876

188

3,282

31,993

2,301

10

2,221

4,332

950

4,532

32,958

4,064

5,282

Financial liabilities

19

-

158

TOTAL NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES

TOTAL LIABILITIES

EQUITY 

Share capital

Share premium

Merger reserve

Shares to be issued

Retained earnings

24

26

26

26

26

1,589

12,488

13,232

794

(174)

-

4,064

158

5,440

1,577

12,462

13,066

864

(451)

TOTAL EQUITY ATTRIBUTABLE TO OWNERS OF THE PARENT

TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 

27,929

31,993

27,518

32,958

The Company’s profit for the year and total comprehensive income for the year was £50,000 (2016: £744,000).

The financial statements on pages 26 to 68 were approved by the board of directors and authorised for issue  on 23 April 2018 
and are signed on its behalf by:

P J Reason 
Director   

N J Goldsmith
Director 

28 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS for the year ended 31 December 2017

2017

2016

Note

£000

£000

£000

£000

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

Profit before taxation

797

Adjustments for:

Depreciation

Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment

Amortisation of intangibles 

Share based payment 

Retirement benefit obligations

Finance income

Finance costs

Decrease in deferred contingent consideration

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATIONS BEFORE MOVEMENTS IN 

WORKING CAPITAL

Movements in working capital:

Decrease in inventories

Increase in trade and other receivables

Increase in trade, other payables and deferred income

CASH GENERATED FROM OPERATIONS

Finance income

Finance costs

Income taxes

186

-

1,404

157

(461)

(186)

318

(148)

700

(3,043)

1,808

186

(112)

(214)

NET CASH GENERATED FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

Purchase of intangible assets

(1,517)

Purchase of property, plant and equipment

Payment of deferred contingent consideration

Repayment of capital of finance leases

Purchase of subsidiary undertakings 

NET CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES

Proceeds from issue of share capital

Finance lease interest

(117)

(687)

(30)

-

29

(6)

23

156

2

1,047

223

(518)

-

646

(1,017)

2,067

562

(535)

1,532

(140)

1,392

85

647

(520)

127

12

(1,737)

1,810

-

(379)

(141)

(890)

(113)

-

(32)

(2,348)

(2,351)

(3,383)

4,823

(8)

NET CASH GENERATED FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES

NET (DECREASE)/INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS 

Cash and cash equivalents at start of year

Effects of exchange rate changes on the balance of cash held 

in foreign currencies

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR

16

23

(936)

4,189

(189)

3,064

4,815

1,559

2,183

447

4,189

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017    29

COMPANY STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS for the year ended 31 December 2017

Note

£000

£000

£000

£000

2017

2016

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

Profit before taxation

Adjustments for:

Finance income

Finance cost

Decrease in deferred contingent consideration

CASH FLOWS FROM/(USED IN) OPERATIONS 

BEFORE MOVEMENTS IN WORKING CAPITAL 

Movements in working capital:

Decrease in trade and other receivables

(Decrease)/increase in trade and other payables

NET CASH (USED IN)/GENERATED FROM 

OPERATIONS

Finance costs

NET CASH (USED IN)/GENERATED FROM 

OPERATING ACTIVITIES

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

Finance income received

Purchase of subsidiary undertakings

Payment of deferred consideration

50

-

150

(148)

-

-

(687)

52

55

(573)

(466)

(61)

(527)

744

(18)

129

(1,017)

9

(3,289)

-

(162)

320

496

654

-

654

NET CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES

(687)

(3,280)

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES

Proceeds from issue of share capital

29

4,823

NET CASH GENERATED FROM FINANCING 

ACTIVITIES

NET (DECREASE)/ INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH 

EQUIVALENTS 

Cash and cash equivalents at start of year

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR

16

29

(1,185)

2,221

1,036

4,823

2,197

24

2,221

30 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY ATTRIBUTABLE TO OWNERS OF THE COMPANY

Share 

capital

£000

Balance as at 1 January 2016

1,304

Shares to 

Translation

Retained 

be issued

reserve

earnings

£000

£000

Share 

premium

£000

7,903

Merger

reserve

£000

1,241

-

-

-

4,559

-

-

-

-

191

-

-

-

-

273

-

1,577

12,462

1,432

-

-

-

12

-

-

-

-

-

26

-

-

-

-

-

166

-

-

£000

641

-

-

-

-

223

864

-

-

-

-

157

(227)

Total

 equity

£000

6,613

1,058

(4,680)

1,058

(977)

(133)

81

-

-

925

5,023

223

204

-

844

844

-

-

1,048

(4,599)

12,784

-

1,094

1,094

(565)

(565)

-

-

-

551

(14)

1,645

1,080

-

-

227

204

157

-

1,589

12,488

1,598

794

483

(2,727)

14,225

Profit for the year

Other comprehensive income/

(expense) for the year

Total comprehensive income

Shares issued

Share based payment

Balance as at 31 December 
2016

Profit for the year

Other comprehensive 

(expense)/income for the year

Total comprehensive income

Shares issued

Share based payment

Reserve transfer on lapse of 

share options

Balance as at 31 December 
2017

COMPANY STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY ATTRIBUTABLE TO OWNERS OF THE COMPANY

Share 

capital

£000

Balance as at 1 January 2016

1,304

Profit for the year

Shares issued

Share based payment

-

273

-

Share 

premium

£000

7,903

-

4,559

-

Merger

reserve

£000

12,875

-

191

-

Balance as at 31 December 2016

1,577

12,462

13,066

Profit for the year

Shares issued

Share based payment                                                           

Reserve transfer on lapse of share options

-

12

-

-

-

26

-

-

-

166

-

-

Balance as at 31 December 2017

1,589

12,488

13,232

Shares to 

be issued

£000

641

-

-

223

864

-

-

157

(227)

794

Retained 

earnings

£000

Total

 equity

£000

(1,195)

21,528

744

-

-

744

5,023

223

(451)

27,518

50

-

-

227

50

204

157

-

(174)

27,929

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017    31

accounting policies

GENERAL INFORMATION
The principal activity and nature of operations of the Group 
is the provision of world class IT solutions to the life sciences 
market.   Instem’s solutions for data collection, management and 
analysis are used by customers worldwide to meet the needs of 
life science and healthcare organisations for data-driven decision 
making leading to safer, more effective products.  Instem plc 
is a public limited company, listed on AIM, and incorporated 
in England and Wales under the Companies Act 2006 and 
domiciled in England and Wales.  The registered office is 
Diamond Way, Stone Business Park, Stone, Staffordshire, ST15 
0SD.

STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with 
International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and IFRS 
Interpretation Committee (IFRIC) interpretations as adopted 
by the EU and the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 
applicable to companies reporting under IFRS.

BASIS OF PREPARATION
The Group’s accounting reference date is 31 December.  

The financial statements have been prepared on the historical 
cost basis.

The Company has taken advantage of the audit exemption 
for two of its subsidiaries Instem Life Science Systems 
Limited (company number 04339129) and Instem Scientific 
Solutions Limited (company number 03598020), by virtue of 
s479A of Companies Act 2006.  The Company has provided 
parent guarantees to these two subsidiaries which have taken 
advantage of the exemption from audit. Under this guarantee, 
the Company has a contingent liability of £9.0m.

In accordance with Section 408 of the Companies Act 2006 the 
Company has elected not to present its own income statement. 
The profit for the year of the parent company is £0.05m (2016: 
£0.74m).

The accounting policies set out below have, unless otherwise 
stated, been applied consistently to all years presented in these 
consolidated financial statements.

The definition of recurring revenues has been amended in 
these financial statements in comparison to the 2016 financial 
statements.  The recurring revenues disclosed in the prior year 
were annual support and maintenance fees together with the 
SaaS subscription and related annual support fees together 
with other recurring professional services.  In these financial 
statements the other recurring professional services have been 
excluded from the recurring revenue calculation.  The 2017 and 
2016 comparative disclosures in these financial statements are 
calculated on a consistent basis.

The definition of the revenue type of SaaS has been expanded 
in these financial statements in comparison to the 2016 
financial statements.  The SaaS revenue disclosed in the prior 
year reflected the SaaS subscription fees.  In these financial 
statements the annual support and maintenance revenues in 
relation to SaaS customers has also been included in addition 
to the subscription fees.  The 2017 and 2016 comparative 
disclosures in these financial statements are calculated on a 
consistent basis.  

It is the opinion of the directors that the above changes are 
considered more appropriate to better reflect the performance of 

the Group.

BASIS OF CONSOLIDATION 
The consolidated financial statements incorporate those of the 
parent company, Instem plc, and its subsidiary undertakings 
made up to 31 December 2017 and 31 December 2016.

In preparing the consolidated financial statements, any intra-
group balances, unrealised gains and losses or income and 
expenses arising from intra-group trading are eliminated.  Where 
accounting policies used in individual financial statements of a 
subsidiary company differ from Group policies, adjustments are 
made to bring these policies in line with Group policies.

Subsidiaries
Subsidiaries are entities over which the Group has the power 
to govern the financial and operating policies so as to obtain 
economic benefits from their activities.  Subsidiaries are 
consolidated from the date on which control is transferred to the 
Group up until the date that control ceases.

BUSINESS COMBINATIONS
Acquisitions of businesses are accounted for using the 
acquisition method.  The consideration transferred in a business 
combination is measured at fair value, which is calculated as the 
sum of the acquisition date fair values of the assets transferred 
by the Group, liabilities incurred by the Group to the former 
owners of the acquiree and the equity interests issued by the 
Group in exchange for control of the acquiree.  Acquisition 
related costs are recognised in profit or loss as incurred.

At the acquisition date, the identifiable assets acquired and the 
liabilities assumed are recognised at their fair value, except that 
deferred tax assets or liabilities are recognised and measured in 
accordance with IAS 12 ‘Income taxes’.

Contingent consideration is measured at its acquisition-date fair 
value and is included as part of the consideration transferred.  
Changes in the fair value of the contingent consideration that 
qualify as measurement period adjustments are adjusted 
retrospectively, with corresponding adjustments against goodwill.  
The subsequent accounting for changes in the fair value of the 
contingent consideration that do not qualify as measurement 
period adjustments depends on how the contingent consideration 
is classified.  Contingent consideration that is classified as an 
asset or a liability is re-measured at subsequent reporting dates 
with the corresponding gain or loss being recognised in profit 
or loss. Contingent consideration is recognised initially at fair 
value and subsequently carried at amortised cost; the difference 
between the gross amount and the fair value is recognised in the 
income statement over the period in which the liability is settled 
using the effective interest method.

GOING CONCERN
The financial position of the Group, its cash flows and liquidity 
position are set out in the primary statements within these 
financial statements.  Detailed projections have been made for 
the 12 months following the approval of the financial statements 
and sensitivity analysis undertaken.  This work gives the 
directors confidence that the Group has adequate resources to 
enable it to continue in operation for the foreseeable future.  The 
Group has a significant proportion of recurring revenue from a 
well-established global customer base, supported by a largely 
fixed cost base. A committed working capital facility is in place 
to support the Group’s working capital needs. The Group had 
net current assets (excluding deferred income) of £10.6m at 31 
December 2017 (2016: £7.9m).  The deferred income recurs 

32 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

accounting policies

each year on renewal of contracts, and in general the Group has 
either received the cash or has raised invoices for the services. 
The Group has positive cash reserves, as well as a working 
capital facility of £2.0m which was undrawn at 31 December 
2017. 

Accordingly, the directors continue to adopt the going concern 
basis for the preparation of the financial statements.

REVENUE RECOGNITION
The Group follows the principles of IAS 18 ‘Revenue 
Recognition’, in determining appropriate revenue recognition 
principles.  In general, revenue is recognised to the extent that 
it is probable that the economic benefits associated with the 
transaction will flow to the Group.

Revenue comprises the value of software licence sales, SaaS 
subscription, installation, training, outsourced services, and 
maintenance and support services.  Revenue is recognised when 
(i) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists; (ii) delivery 
has occurred or services have been rendered; (iii) the sales price 
is fixed and determinable and (iv) collectability is reasonably 
assured.

For software arrangements with multiple elements revenue is 
recognised dependent on whether vendor-specific objective 
evidence (‘VSOE’) of fair value exists for each of the elements. 
VSOE is determined by reference to sales made to customers 
on a stand-alone basis. Where there is no VSOE revenue is 
recognised over the full term of each contract.

Revenue from licence based products is recognised when the 
risks and rewards of ownership of the product are transferred 
to the customer i.e. when licence keys are delivered to the 
customer, the sales price is fixed and determinable and 
collectability is reasonably assured.  

Revenue from software maintenance, SaaS and other time-
based contracts is recognised over the invoiced contract period.

Revenue from installation and training is recognised on a 
percentage completion basis on fixed price contracts or as 
services are provided in respect of time and materials contracts.

The excess of amounts invoiced over revenue is included in 
deferred income.  If the amount of revenue recognised exceeds 
the amounts invoiced the excess amount is included within 
amounts recoverable on contracts.

EARNINGS BEFORE INTEREST, TAXATION, DEPRECIATION, 
AMORTISATION AND NON-RECURRING COSTS (‘EBITDA’)
Earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation, amortisation 
and non-recurring items (EBITDA) is profit/(loss) arising from 
the Group’s normal trading activities stated before depreciation, 
amortisation, non-recurring items, finance income, finance costs 
and taxation, and shown in this way to provide a clearer measure 
of underlying operating performance.

SEGMENTAL REPORTING
IFRS 8 ‘Operating Segments’ requires segmental information for 
the Group on the basis of information reported internally to the 
chief operating decision-maker for decision-making purposes. 
The Group considers that the role of chief operating decision-
maker is performed by the Group’s Board of Directors.  

Since the Group is primarily providing goods and services to the 
global life sciences market there is only one operating segment 

which is monitored by the business.

FOREIGN CURRENCIES 
Transactions in foreign currencies are translated at the foreign 
exchange rate ruling at the date of the transaction.  Monetary 
assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at 
the reporting date are translated at the foreign exchange rate 
ruling at that date.  Foreign exchange differences arising on 
translation are recognised in profit or loss.  Non-monetary assets 
and liabilities that are measured in terms of historical cost in a 
foreign currency are translated using the exchange rate at the 
date of the transaction.  Non-monetary assets and liabilities 
denominated in foreign currencies that are stated at fair value 
are translated at foreign exchange rates ruling at the date the fair 
value was determined.  

The assets and liabilities of foreign operations, including 
goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on consolidation, are 
translated at foreign exchange rates ruling at the reporting date.  
The revenue and expenses of foreign operations are translated 
at an average rate for the year where this rate approximates to 
the foreign exchange rates ruling at the dates of the transactions, 
or otherwise at the exchange rate ruling at the date of each 
transaction.

Exchange differences arising from the translation of foreign 
operations are taken directly to the translation reserve.  They are 
released into profit or loss upon disposal of the foreign operation.

The presentational currency adopted by the Group is Sterling 
(GBP).  The functional currencies of each of the companies in 
the Group are as follows:

Instem plc

Sterling (GBP)

Instem Life Science Systems Limited 

Sterling (GBP)

Instem LSS Limited

Sterling (GBP)

Instem LSS (North America) Limited

US Dollars (USD)

Instem LSS Asia Limited

Hong Kong Dollars (HKD)

Instem Information Systems (Shanghai) 
Limited

Renminbi (RMB)

Instem Scientific Limited

Sterling (GBP)

Instem Scientific Solutions Limited

Sterling (GBP)

Instem Scientific Inc

US Dollars (USD)

Instem India Pvt Limited

Indian Rupees (INR)

Instem Clinical Holdings Limited

Sterling (GBP)

Instem Clinical Limited

Sterling (GBP)

Instem Clinical Inc

US Dollars (USD)

Perceptive Instruments Limited

Sterling (GBP)

Instem Japan K.K

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Samarind Limited

Sterling (GBP)

Notocord Systems S.A.

Euro (EUR)

Notocord Inc.

US Dollars (USD)

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017    33

accounting policies

The exchange rates used to translate the financial statements into Sterling (GBP) are as follows:

US Dollar 
(USD)

Hong Kong 
Dollar (HKD)

Average rate for year ended 31 December 2016

1.3553

10.5210

Closing rate at 31 December 2016

1.2340

9.5654

Average rate for year ended 31 December 2017

1.2886

10.0426

Closing rate at 31 December 2017

1.3513

10.5678

Chinese 
Renminbi
(RMB)

9.0102

8.5978

8.7036

8.7931

Indian Rupee
(INR)

Japanese
Yen (JPY)

91.0666

147.577

83.4892

144.503

83.8497

144.493

Euro
(EUR)

1.2242

1.1731

1.1416

86.2715

152.231

1.126

FINANCE INCOME
Interest income is accrued on a time basis, by reference to the 
principal outstanding and at the effective interest rate applicable, 
which is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash 
receipts through the expected life of the financial asset to that 
asset’s net carrying amount.  Finance income includes exchange 
gains (including exchange gains on the translation of intra-group 
funding balances).

Non-vesting and market vesting conditions are taken into 
account when estimating the fair value of the option at grant 
date. Service and non-market vesting conditions are taken into 
account by adjusting the number of options expected to vest at 
each reporting date. Market vesting conditions are linked to the 
Group’s share price performance relative to the performance of 
the AIM All share index. Non-market vesting conditions are linked 
to trading performance and service over defined time periods.

FINANCE COSTS
Net finance costs include interest payable, arrangement and 
service fees, exchange losses (including exchange losses on 
the translation of inter-company funding balances), unwinding 
discount from future deferred consideration payments, finance 
charges on finance leases and net interest on pension scheme 
liabilities.  Interest payable is recognised in the statement of 
comprehensive income as it accrues, using the effective interest 
method.

LEASING
Where assets are financed by leasing agreements that give 
rights approximating to ownership (“finance leases”), the assets 
are treated as if they had been purchased outright.  The amount 
capitalised is the fair value or, if lower, the present value of the 
minimum lease payments payable during the lease term.  The 
corresponding leasing commitments are shown as finance lease 
obligations to the lessor. 

Lease payments are apportioned between finance charges and 
reduction of lease obligations so as to achieve a constant rate 
of interest on the remaining balance of the liability.  Finance 
charges are charged to finance costs in the statement of 
comprehensive income.

All other leases are “operating leases” and the annual rentals are 
charged to the statement of comprehensive income on a straight-
line basis over the lease term. 

SHARE-BASED PAYMENT TRANSACTIONS
The Group issues equity-settled share-based payments to 
certain employees. Equity-settled share-based payments 
are measured at fair value at the date of grant by reference 
to the fair value of the equity instruments granted.  The fair 
value determined at the grant date of equity-settled share-
based payments is expensed on a straight-line basis over the 
vesting period, based on the Group’s estimate of the number 
of instruments that will eventually vest with a corresponding 
adjustment to equity.  Fair values are measured by use of 
the Binomial, Monte Carlo or Black Scholes models.  The 
expected life used in the model has been adjusted, based on 
management’s best estimate, for the effect of non-transferability, 
exercise restrictions, and behavioural considerations.

Cancelled or settled options are accounted for as an acceleration 
of vesting.  The unrecognised grant date fair value is recognised 
in profit or loss in the year that the options are cancelled or 
settled.  Where the terms of the options are modified and 
the modification increases the fair value or number of equity 
instruments granted, measured immediately before and after 
the modification, the incremental fair value is spread over the 
remaining vesting period.

Options over the Company’s shares granted to employees of 
subsidiaries are recognised as a capital contribution by the 
Company to the subsidiaries.

TAXATION 
Taxation expense includes the amount of current income tax 
payable and the charge for the year in respect of deferred 
taxation.

The income tax payable is based on an estimation of the 
amount due on the taxable profit for the year.  Taxable profit is 
different from profit before tax as reported in the statement of 
comprehensive income because it excludes items of income or 
expenditure which are not taxable or deductible in the year as a 
result of either the nature of the item or the fact that it is taxable 
or deductible in another year.  The Group’s liability for current 
tax is calculated by using tax rates that have been enacted or 
substantively enacted by the reporting date.

Income tax credits for research and development activities are 
recognised on a cash basis or when their receipt is reasonably 
certain.

Deferred tax is accounted for on the basis of temporary 
differences arising from the differences between the tax base 
and accounting base of assets and liabilities.

Deferred tax is recognised for all taxable temporary differences, 
except to the extent where it arises from the initial recognition 
of an asset or liability in a transaction that is not a business 
combination.  Deferred tax assets are recognised only to 
the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be 
available against which temporary differences can be utilised. 
Deferred tax is recognised on income or expenses from 
subsidiaries that will be assessed or allow for tax in future 

34 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

accounting policies

periods except where the Group is able to control the reversal of 
the timing difference and it is probable that the timing difference 
will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

Deferred tax is charged or credited to the statement of 
comprehensive income, except when it relates to items charged 
or credited directly to equity, in which case it is dealt with within 
equity.  It is calculated at the tax rates that are expected to apply 
to the period when the asset is realised or the liability is settled.

INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Intangible assets purchased separately from a business are 
capitalised at their cost. 

Intellectual Property, Customer Relationships and Patents
The Group makes an assessment of the fair value of intangible 
assets arising on acquisitions. These include Intellectual 
Property, Customer Relationships and Patents.  An intangible 
asset will be recognised as long as the asset is identifiable and 
its fair value can be measured reliably.  An intangible asset 
is identifiable if it is separable or if it was obtained through 
contractual or legal rights.  Amortisation is provided on the fair 
value of the asset and is calculated on a straight-line basis 
over its useful life.  The useful life for Intellectual Property, 
Customer Relationships and Patents is between five and ten 
years.  Amortisation is recognised within the statement of 
comprehensive income.  All intangible assets except Goodwill 
are amortised.

Goodwill
Goodwill on acquisitions, being the excess of the fair value of the 
cost of acquisition over the Group’s interest in the fair value of 
the identifiable assets and liabilities acquired, is capitalised and 
tested for impairment on an annual basis.  

Any impairment is recognised immediately in profit or loss and 
is not subsequently reversed.  For the purpose of impairment 
testing goodwill is allocated to cash generating units of Instem 
plc, which represent the smallest identifiable group of assets that 
generates cash inflows that are largely independent of the cash 
inflows from other assets or groups of assets.

Computer software
Computer software is carried at cost less accumulated 
amortisation and any impairment loss.  Externally acquired 
computer software and software licences are capitalised and 
amortised on a straight-line basis over their useful economic 
lives of three years.  Costs relating to development of computer 
software for internal use are capitalised once the recognition 
criteria of IAS 38 “Intangible Assets” are met.  When the software 
is available for its use, these costs are amortised over the 
estimated useful life of the software.

Internally generated intangible assets 
Expenditure on research activities is recognised in the statement 
of comprehensive income as incurred.

Expenditure arising from the Group’s development of software 
for sale to third parties is recognised only if all of the following 
conditions are met:
• 
• 

an asset is created that can be identified;
it is probable that the asset created will generate future 
economic benefits; 
the development cost of the asset can be measured 
reliably;

• 

• 

• 

• 

the Group has the intention to complete the asset and the 
ability and intention to use or sell it;
the product or process is technically and commercially 
feasible; and 
sufficient resources are available to complete the 
development and to either sell or use the asset.

Where these criteria have not been achieved, development 
expenditure is recognised in profit or loss in the period in which it 
is incurred.

Internally-generated intangible assets are amortised, once the 
product is available for use, on a straight-line basis over their 
useful lives (five to eight years).

PROPERTY, PLANT & EQUIPMENT 
Property, plant and equipment are stated in the statement of 
financial position at cost less accumulated depreciation and 
provision for impairments.

Depreciation is provided on all assets so as to write off the cost 
less estimated residual value on a straight-line basis as follows:

Short leasehold property 
IT hardware and software 

-     Over term of lease 
-     12½% - 33% per annum 

The expected useful lives and residual values of property, 
plant and equipment are reviewed on an annual basis and, 
if necessary, changes in useful lives are accounted for 
prospectively.  

The gain or loss arising on the disposal or retirement of an asset 
is determined as the difference between the sales proceeds 
and the carrying amount of the asset and is recognised in the 
statement of comprehensive income.

IMPAIRMENT OF ASSETS EXCLUDING GOODWILL
The carrying value of property, plant and equipment and 
intangible assets (excluding goodwill) is reviewed for impairment 
whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the 
carrying value may not be recoverable.  

At each reporting date the Group reviews the carrying value of its 
property, plant and equipment and intangible assets to determine 
whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered 
an impairment loss.  If any such indication exists the recoverable 
amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent 
of the impairment loss.

Where the asset does not generate cash flows that are 
independent from other assets the Group estimates the 
recoverable amount of the cash generating unit to which the 
asset belongs.  A cash generating unit is the smallest identifiable 
group of assets that generates cash inflows that are largely 
independent of the cash inflows from other assets or groups of 
assets.

Recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs to sell 
and value in use.  In assessing value in use, the estimated future 
cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax 
discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the 
time value of money and the risks specific to the asset, for which 
the estimates of future cash flows have not been adjusted.  

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017    35

accounting policies
If the recoverable amount of an asset is estimated to be less than 
its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset is reduced 
to its recoverable amount.  An impairment loss is recognised as 
an expense immediately.

Where an impairment loss subsequently reverses, the carrying 
amount of the assets is increased to the revised estimate of 
its recoverable amount, but so that the increased carrying 
amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have 
been determined had no impairment loss been recognised for 
the asset in prior years.  A reversal of an impairment loss is 
recognised in profit or loss immediately.

INVENTORY 
Inventory is stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value.  
The cost of work in progress comprises direct labour and other 
direct costs and includes billable employee expenses.  

Provision is made where necessary for obsolete and slow-
moving inventory.

PROVISION FOR LIABILITIES AND CHARGES
Provisions are recognised when there is a present legal or 
constructive obligation as a result of a past event, for which it 
is probable that an outflow of economic benefit will be required 
to settle the obligation and where the amount can be reliably 
estimated. 

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Classification of financial instruments 
Financial instruments are classified as financial assets, financial 
liabilities or equity instruments.

Recognition and valuation of financial assets
Financial assets are initially recorded at their fair value net of 
transaction costs.  At each reporting date, the Group reviews 
the carrying value of its financial assets to determine whether 
there is objective evidence of an indication of impairment.  If any 
such indication exists, the recoverable amount is estimated and 
any identified impairment loss is recognised in the statement of 
comprehensive income.

Investments
Investments in subsidiaries are recorded at cost in the statement 
of financial position.  They are tested for impairment when there 
is objective evidence of impairment.  Any impairment losses are 
recognised in the statement of comprehensive income in the 
period they occur.

Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash in hand and cash 
deposits which are readily convertible to a known amount of 
cash.  For the purposes of the cash flow statement, cash and 
cash equivalents include bank overdrafts which are repayable 
on demand as these form an integral part of Group cash 
management.  

Trade receivables
Trade receivables are classified as loans and receivables and 
are initially recognised at fair value.  They are subsequently 
measured at their amortised cost using the effective interest 
method less any provision for impairment.  A provision for 
impairment is made where there is objective evidence that 
amounts will not be recovered in accordance with original terms 

of the agreement.  A provision for impairment is established when 
the carrying value of the receivable exceeds the present value 
of the future cash flows discounted using the original effective 
interest rate.  The carrying value of the receivable is reduced 
through the use of an impairment provision account and any 
impairment loss is recognised in the statement of comprehensive 
income.  

Financial liabilities and equity
Financial liabilities and equity instruments are classified 
according to the substance of the contractual arrangements 
entered into.  An equity instrument is any contract that evidences 
a residual interest in the assets of the Group after deducting all 
of its liabilities.

Bank borrowings and loan notes
Interest-bearing loan notes and bank overdrafts are recorded 
initially at their fair value, net of direct transaction costs. 
Such instruments are subsequently carried at their amortised 
cost and finance charges are recognised in the statement of 
comprehensive income over the term of the instrument using an 
effective rate of interest.  Finance charges are accounted for on 
an accruals basis to the statement of comprehensive income.  
Overdrafts are offset against cash and cash equivalents when 
the Group has a legal right of off-set.

Trade and other payables
Trade and other payables are not interest bearing and are initially 
recognised at fair value and subsequently at amortised cost.

Ordinary share capital
For ordinary share capital, the par value is recognised in share 
capital and the premium in the share premium reserve.

Derivative financial instruments
The Group’s activities expose it primarily to foreign currency risk.  
The Group uses forward contracts to hedge this exposure.

RETIREMENT BENEFITS 
Defined contribution schemes
A defined contribution scheme is a pension plan under which 
the Group pays a fixed contribution to a scheme with an 
external provider.  The amount charged to the statement of 
comprehensive income in respect of pension costs and other 
post-retirement benefits is the total of contributions payable in the 
year.  Differences between contributions payable in the year and 
contributions actually paid are shown as either other payables 
or other receivables in the statement of financial position.  The 
Group has no further payment obligations once the contributions 
have been paid.

Defined benefit scheme
A defined benefit scheme is a pension plan under which the 
Group pays contributions in order to fund a defined amount of 
pension that the employees under the scheme will receive on 
retirement.  The cost of providing the benefits is determined 
using the projected unit credit method with actuarial valuations 
being carried out regularly. 

An asset or liability is recognised equal to the present value of 
the defined benefit obligation, adjusted for unrecognised past 
service costs and reduced by the fair value of plan assets.

Actuarial gains and losses are recognised in the statement 

36 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

accounting policies

of other comprehensive income in the year in which they 
occur, whilst expected returns on plan assets, servicing 
costs and financing costs are recognised in the statement of 
comprehensive income.

IFRSs ISSUED BUT NOT YET EFFECTIVE
The following IFRSs, IASs and IFRICs have been issued, are 
not yet effective, and have not been adopted by the Group or the 
Company in these financial statements.  

The rate used to discount the benefit obligations is based on 
market yields for high quality corporate bonds with terms and 
currencies consistent with those of the benefit obligations.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTS
Certain year end asset and liability amounts reported in the 
financial information are based on management estimates and 
assumptions.  There is therefore a risk of significant changes 
to the carrying amounts of these assets and liabilities within the 
next financial year.  The estimates and assumptions are made on 
the basis of information and conditions that existed at the time of 
the valuation.

Recognition of deferred tax assets
The recognition of deferred tax assets is based upon whether it is 
more likely than not that sufficient and suitable taxable profits will 
be available in the future against which the reversal of temporary 
differences can be deducted.  Where the temporary differences 
are related to losses, relevant tax law is considered to determine 
the availability of the losses to offset against the future taxable 
profits.  The amount recognised in the consolidated financial 
statements is derived from management’s best estimation and 
judgement incorporating forecasts and all available information.  
Recognition therefore involves judgement regarding the future 
financial performance of the particular legal entity or tax group in 
which the deferred tax asset has been recognised.

Provision for liabilities and charges
Provisions are recognised when the Group has a present 
obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, it is 
probable that the Group will be required to settle the probable 
outflow of resources, and a reliable estimate can be made of the 
amount of the obligation.  As at 31 December 2017, the Group 
has made a provision of £0.25m in respect of historical contract 
disputes as the directors have considered that the above 
provision conditions have been met.  The provision represents 
the best estimate of the risks and considers all information and 
legal advice received by the Group.

Impairment
At each reporting date, the Group reviews the carrying amounts 
of goodwill and investments.  The recoverable amount of 
the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the 
impairment loss (if any).  Where the asset does not generate 
cash flows that are independent from other assets, the Group 
estimates the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit 
to which the asset belongs. A key factor which could result in an 
impairment of goodwill or investments is lower than predicted 
profitability.

ADOPTION OF IFRS
The Group and Company financial statements have been 
prepared in accordance with IFRS, IAS and International 
Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee (IFRICs) effective 
as at 31 December 2017.  The Group and Company have 
chosen not to adopt any amendments or revised standards early.

IFRS 15 ‘Revenue from Contracts with Customers’ effective – 1 
January 2018

IFRS 9 ‘Financial Instruments’ effective – 1 January 2018

IFRS 16 ‘Leases’ effective – 1 January 2019

IFRS 2 ’Classification and Measurement of Share Based 
Payment’ (Amended) effective – 1 January 2018

IFRIC 22 ‘Foreign Currency Transactions and Advance 
Consideration’ effective – 1 January 2018

IFRS 15 ‘Revenue from Contracts with Customers’ will replace 
IAS 18 ‘Revenue’ for accounting periods commencing on or after 
1 January 2018. For Instem, the effective date is the financial 
year commencing 1 January 2018. 

The core principle of the standard is that an entity will recognise 
revenue at an amount that reflects the consideration to which 
the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for transferring 
promised goods or services to a customer.  To apply this 
principle, entities must follow the five-step model below: 

1. 

2. 

Identify the contract(s) with a customer written, oral or 
implied by an entity’s customary business practices. 
Identify the performance obligations in the contract(s) 
and evaluate the terms in the contract to identify all the 
promised goods or services and then determine which of 
these will be treated as separate performance obligations.

3.  Determine the transaction price – the amount that an entity 
expects to be entitled to in exchange for transferring goods 
or services to a customer. 

4.  Allocate the transaction price to the performance 

obligations.

5.  Recognise revenue when the entity satisfies each 

performance – when control of a promised good or service 
transfers to the customer.

The Group are progressing their review of the implications and 
impact of IFRS 15 ‘Revenue from Contracts with Customers’ by 
thorough and careful review of the customer contracts across 
the Instem group.  Full disclosure will be reported in the June 
2018 interim statement.  The Group are also considering IFRS 
16 ‘Leases’ for the implications on the financial statements.  The 
directors do not believe that the other standards above will have 
a material impact on the financial statements.

IFRSs ADOPTED IN THE YEAR
The following IFRSs, IASs and IFRICs have been adopted for 
the first time in the year:  As expected their adoption has not had 
a material impact on these financial statements.

IAS 12 ‘Recognition of Deferred Tax Assets for Unrealised 
Losses’ (Amended) effective – 1 January 2017

IAS 7 ‘Disclosure initiative’ (Amended) effective - 1 January 2017

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017    37

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

1.  Segmental Reporting

For management purposes, the Group is currently organised into one operating segment – Global Life Sciences.

Segment results, assets and liabilities include items directly attributable to a segment as well as those that can be allocated on a 
reasonable basis. 

REVENUE BY PRODUCT TYPE

Licence fees

Annual support fees

SaaS subscription and support fees

Professional services

Outsourced services

REVENUE BY GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION

United Kingdom

Rest of Europe

USA and Canada

Rest of World

REVENUE

2016

£000

4,162

7,716

4,027

2,257

157

2017

£000

5,813

8,442

4,406

1,891

1,116

21,668

18,319

REVENUE

2017

£000

2,670

4,567

12,246

2,185

21,668

2016

£000

3,329

3,232

9,829

1,929

18,319

BY GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION

United Kingdom

Rest of Europe

USA and Canada

Rest of World

NON-CURRENT ASSETS EXCLUDING DEFERRED TAXATION

2017

£000

17,167

320

214

38

17,739

2016

£000

17,750

16

165

50

17,981

Major customers

There were no customers which represented more than 10% of the Group revenue in 2017 and 2016.

38 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

 
       
  
  
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

2.  Profit Before Non-Recurring (Costs)/Income

Profit from operations includes the following significant items:

Depreciation and amounts written off property, plant and equipment:

 Charge for the year:

   Owned assets

  Leased assets

Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment

Amortisation of intangible assets

Research and development costs

Operating lease rentals: 

Plant and machinery

Land and buildings

Amounts payable to  RSM UK Audit LLP and their associates in respect of 

both audit and non-audit services:

Audit services:

Statutory audit of parent and consolidated financial information

Audit of subsidiaries where such services are provided by 

RSM UK Audit LLP or its associates

Other services:

Audit related assurance services

Taxation services - Compliance

Taxation services - Advisory

Due diligence

Other services

2017

£000

156

30

-

1,404

1,831

61

521

21

67

16

22

17

-

1

2016

£000

126

30

2

1,047

1,840

39

481

17

64

16

18

4

47

-

144

166

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017    39

    
    
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

2.  Profit Before Non-Recurring (Costs)/Income (continued)

The following table analyses the nature of operating expenses:

2017

£000

Staff costs (see note 6)

11,981

Operating lease rentals

Software maintenance charges

Licence costs 

Other expenses

582

549

1,685

3,752

Total operating expenses

18,549

3.  Non-Recurring (Costs)/Income

Professional fees in respect of acquisitions

Amendment to consideration payable in respect of Instem Clinical

2017

£000

-

-

Restructuring costs

(341)

Restructuring costs in respect of Instem Clinical

Amendment to contingent consideration post acquisition 

Cost provision relating to historical contract disputes

-

148

(250)

(443)

2016

£000

10,706

520

444

599

4,574

16,843

2016

£000

(249)

690

-

(149)

327

-

619

The professional fees in the prior year relate to the acquisition of Samarind Limited on 27th May 2016 and Notocord on 2nd September 
2016.

During the previous year, the Group reached agreement with the previous owners of Instem Clinical resulting in the release of Instem 
from its obligation to pay the final consideration payments.

The restructuring costs relate to the redundancy and legal costs relating to the Group’s business reorganisation and integration strategy 
which was implemented in the first half of 2017.

The contingent consideration in respect of Samarind Limited and the Notocord group was estimated at its fair value at the date of 
acquisition.  This was re-measured at each reporting date and the estimation of the contingent consideration payable has reduced.

As at 31 December 2017, the Group has made a provision of £0.25m in respect of historical contract disputes.  See Critical Accounting 
Estimates and Judgements in the accounting policies.

40 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

4.  Finance Income

Foreign exchange gains

Other interest

5.  Finance Costs

6.  Employees

Bank loans and overdrafts

Unwinding discount on deferred consideration

Net interest charge on pension scheme

Foreign exchange losses

Finance lease interest

2017

£000

184

2

186

2017

£000

112

71

129

-

6

318

2016

£000

-

-

-

2016

£000

32

120

139

347

8

646

Average monthly number (including non-executive directors)

By role:

Directors, administration and supervision

Software design, sales and customer service

Employment costs:

Wages and salaries

Social security costs

Other pension costs

2017

Number

2016

Number

43

174

217

2017

£000

10,181

1,047

753

11,981

42

154

196

2016

£000

9,045

890

771

10,706

In addition to the above employment costs, the Group had non-recurring employment costs of £0.34m (2016: £0.15m) as disclosed in 
note 3.

The Company had three employees during the year and the prior year.  These employees are non-executive directors of the Company 
and their remuneration is disclosed in note 8.

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017    41

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

7.  Share Based Payment

Equity-Settled Share Option Plan

Under the approved and unapproved share option schemes, the Remuneration Committee can grant options to employees of the 
Group. Options are granted with a fixed exercise price at the date of grant. The contractual life is generally ten years from the date of 
grant. Options generally become exercisable after three years. Certain options issued to directors and senior employees carry market 
based performance conditions.  

2017

2016

Weighted 

average exercise 

Number

price (£)

Outstanding at the beginning of the year

1,209,093

Granted

20,000

Lapsed

(104,209)

Exercised 

(26,654)

Outstanding at end of the year 

1,098,230

Exercisable at end of year

757,881

1.07

0.10

0.10

1.07

1.14

1.61

Weighted 

average exercise 

price (£)

1.02

0.10

0.10

0.83

1.07

1.59

Number

1,387,016

104,558

(141,250)

(141,231)

1,209,093

784,535

The options outstanding at 31 December 2017 and 31 December 2016 had exercise prices of £0.10, £0.90, £1.115, £1.75, £1.76, 
£2.215 and £2.22 and a weighted average remaining contractual life of 4 years 11 months (2016: 6 years 1 month).

A charge of £0.2m (2016: £0.2m) arose in respect of share based payment.

New options are valued using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model.  The fair market value of option awards granted during the year 
has been estimated using the following key assumptions:

Average exercise price

Average market price

Average vesting period (years)

Expected volatility

Option life (years)

Expected life

Risk free rate

Expected dividend yield

Expected lapse rate

2017

0.10

1.79

3

26.4

10

3

2%

-

-

Fair value of options

1.69

Volatility since listing in 2010 has been calculated using the daily mid-market share price. The expected life used in the model has 
been adjusted, based upon the management’s best estimate for the effects of non-transferability, exercise restrictions, and behavioural 
considerations.

Options over 21,599 shares (2016: 312,058) incorporate a condition based on the performance of either the Group or the individual 
performance of a subsidiary.

The fair value of options granted in the year was £0.03m (2016: £0.3m).

During the year, the average share price in respect of share options exercised was £1.65 (2016: £2.55).

42 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

8.  Directors’ Emoluments

Amounts payable by Instem plc:

Emoluments*

Amounts payable by subsidiary companies:

Emoluments

Defined contribution pension contributions

Total emoluments

2017

£000

120

340

40

500

2016

£000

112

335

40

487

* The above emoluments include £30,000 (2016: £30,000) payable to third parties as shown in note 29.

2017
Number

2016

Number

Number of directors to whom retirement benefits

are accruing under:

Defined contribution schemes

2

2

The highest paid director is shown in the Directors’ Remuneration Report.

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017    43

                                                           
                                                           
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

9.  Taxation                 

Income taxes recognised in profit or loss:

Current tax:

UK corporation tax on profit of the year

Amounts in respect of previously unrecognised losses

Foreign tax

Foreign tax in respect of previous years

Adjustments in respect of previous years

Adjustments in respect of R&D tax credit

Total current tax

Deferred tax:

Current year (charge)/credit

Amounts in respect of previously unrecognised losses

Adjustment in respect of previous years

Retirement benefit obligation

Effects of domestic tax rate change on opening balances

Total deferred tax

Total income tax credit recognised in the current year

The income tax expense can be reconciled to the accounting profit 

as follows:

Profit before tax

Profit before tax multiplied by standard rate of corporation tax in 

the UK 19.25% (2016: 20%)

Effects of:

Income/(expenses) not allowable/(deductible) for tax purposes

Fixed asset temporary differences

Differences in overseas tax rates

Adjustments in respect of prior years

Foreign tax suffered in excess of double tax relief

Effects of domestic tax rate change on opening balances

Adjustment in respect of R&D tax credit

Other temporary differences

Tax losses utilised

Tax losses carried forward not previously recognised

Overseas tax losses not carried forward

Total income tax credit recognised in  consolidated statement of 

comprehensive income

2017

£000

-

-

(379)

306

337

567

831

(121)

-

(357)

(56)

-

(534)

297

2017

£000

797

(153)

(74)

(101)

(105)

286

(69)

-

567

(102)

48

-

-

297

2016

£000

(244)

141

(400)

45

312

350

204

421

459

73

(76)

(46)

831

1,035

2016

£000

23

(5)

23

(164)

(85)

430

(110)

(46)

350

97

141

526

(122)

1,035

44 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

10.  Intangible Assets 

Goodwill

Software 

property 

relationships

Patents

Group

£000

£000

£000

£000

£000

Intellectual 

Customer 

Cost

At 1 January 2016

9,507

2,874

2,222

Additions from continuing 

operations

-

Additions from  acquisitions

1,508

Exchange adjustment

-

At 31 December 2016

11,015

Additions from continuing 

operations

-

Fair value adjustment

(425)

Transferred from work in 

progress

Exchange adjustment

-

-

890

-

10

3,774

1,517

-

166

(25)

-

2,305

-

4,527

-

-

-

-

957

-

1,917

-

2,874

-

-

-

-

At 31 December 2017

10,590

5,432

4,527

2,874

Amounts written off 

At 1 January 2016

Amortisation expense

Exchange adjustment

At 31 December 2016

Amortisation expense

Exchange adjustment

At 31 December 2017

Net book value

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

At 31 December 2016

11,015

At 31 December 2017

10,590

1,444

380

11

1,835

473

(4)

2,304

1,939

3,128

1,493

442

-

1,935

613

-

2,548

2,592

1,979

589

224

-

813

318

-

1,131

2,061

1,743

21

-

-

-

21

-

-

-

-

21

20

1

-

21

-

-

21

-

-

Total

£000

15,581

890

5,730

10

22,211

1,517

(425)

166

(25)

23,444

3,546

1,047

11

4,604

1,404

(4)

6,004

17,607

17,440

A fair value adjustment was identified within 12 months of the acquisition of Notocord in respect of the current tax liability which was 

overstated by £0.4m.  This fair value adjustment has reduced the goodwill arising on acquisition from £0.9m to £0.5m during the year 

ended 31 December 2017.

The gross carrying amount and accumulated amortisation within Software includes internally generated and externally acquired 
elements.  The cost of internally generated software amounts to £3.0m (2016: £2.3m) with accumulated amortisation of £1.2m (2016: 

£0.9m).  Software additions for the year include £1.4m relating to internal development (2016: £0.8m).

Impairment of goodwill 

Goodwill amounting to £5.9m (2016: £5.9m) relates to a cash generating unit (CGU), being the Instem business acquired on the 

management buyout of Instem LSS Limited on 27 March 2002.  Goodwill amounting to £0.5m (2016: £0.5m), relates to a CGU, being 

the Instem Scientific Limited business acquired on 3 March 2011.  Goodwill amounting to £2.5m (2016: £2.5m), relates to a CGU, being 

the Instem Clinical Holdings Limited business acquired on 10 May 2013.  Goodwill amounting to £0.7m (2016: £0.7m) relates to a CGU, 

being the Perceptive Instruments Limited business acquired on 21 November 2013.  Goodwill amounting to £0.5m (2016: £0.5m) relates 

to a CGU, being the Samarind Limited business acquired on 27 May 2016.  Goodwill amounting to £0.5m (2016: £0.9m) relates to a 

CGU, being the Notocord business acquired on 2 September 2016.

During the year, goodwill was tested for impairment in accordance with IAS 36 “Impairment of Assets”.  The recoverable amount of the 

CGU exceeded the carrying amounts of goodwill.  The recoverable amount for each of the CGU has been measured using a value-

in-use calculation and as such no impairment was deemed necessary.  

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017    45

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

10.  Intangible Assets (continued)

The key assumptions used, which are based on management’s past experience, for the value-in-use calculations are those regarding 

the discount rates, growth rates and direct costs during the period.  The value-in-use calculations are based on the future pre-tax cash 

flows from approved forecasts which have been extrapolated to cover a period of five years, and then a terminal value calculated using 

the Gordon Growth Model, to take account of the software development cycle and the high percentage of recurring revenues from the 

customer base. At 31 December 2017, a pre-tax discount rate of 8.9% (2016: 9.1%) was used in the value-in-use calculation based on 

the Group’s cost of capital.

Projected cash flows were based on detailed profit and cashflow projections through to 2018 with a 2.5% assumption of growth beyond 

2018.  The projections were based on reasonable assumptions in respect of business growth rates, payroll and other cost increases and 

related cashflow impacts.  No indication of impairment was identified.

The recoverable amount of the Instem LSS CGU exceeds the carrying amount of this CGU by 390%, for the Instem Scientific CGU 

by 848%, for Instem Clinical CGU by 353%, Perceptive Instruments CGU by 477%, Samarind CGU by 504% and Notocord CGU by 

228%. The directors consider the discount rate and revenues to be the most sensitive assumptions used in the impairment reviews.  An 

additional increase in the discount rate of 29%, or a reduction in certain revenues of in excess of 11%, would result in the recoverable 

amount of the Instem LSS CGU being equal to its carrying amount. An additional increase of 38% in the Instem Scientific discount rate, 

or a reduction in revenues of 3% would result in the recoverable amount of the CGU being equal to its carrying amount. An additional 

increase of 37% in the Instem Clinical discount rate, or a reduction in revenues of 10% would result in the recoverable amount of the 

CGU being equal to its carrying amount. An additional increase of 51% in the Perceptive Instruments discount rate, or a reduction in 

revenues of 6% would result in the recoverable amount of the CGU being equal to its carrying amount. An additional increase of 54% 

in the Samarind discount rate, or a reduction in revenues by 9% would result in the recoverable amount of the CGU being equal to 

its carrying value. An additional increase of 24% in the Notocord discount rate, or a reduction in revenues by 13% would result in the 

recoverable amount of the CGU being equal to its carrying value.

Amortisation expenses are disclosed in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income.

11.  Investments

Company

Cost at beginning of year

Additions

At end of year

£000

28,426

285

28,711

At the end of the year the company has seven wholly-owned subsidiaries and eleven wholly-owned sub-subsidiaries, details of which 
are as follows:

Company

Registered Address

Activity

Ownership

Instem Life Science Systems 

Diamond Way

Limited 

(company number 04339129)

Stone Business Park

Stone, Staffordshire

England and Wales

ST15 0SD

Instem LSS Limited 

(company number 03548215)

England and Wales

Instem LSS (North America) Limited 

(company number 02126697)

England and Wales

Instem LSS (Asia) Limited 

(company number 1371107)

Hong Kong

Diamond Way

Stone Business Park

Stone, Staffordshire

ST15 0SD

Diamond Way

Stone Business Park

Stone, Staffordshire

ST15 0SD

Suite 1106-8

11/F Tai Yau Building

No 181 Johnston Road

Wanchai

Holding Company

100% by Instem plc

Software development, 

100% by Instem Life 

sales, sales support and 

Science Systems 

administrative support

Limited

Sales, sales support and 

100% by Instem LSS 

administrative support

Limited

Holding Company

100% by Instem LSS 

Limited

46 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

11.  Investments (continued)

Company

Registered Address

Activity

Ownership

Instem Information Systems 

Room 205, Building 16

(Shanghai) Limited

88 Da’erwen Road

(company number 310115400257075)

Zhanjiang, High Tech Park

Shanghai, PRC

Pudong District 201203

Sales, sales support and service

100% by Instem LSS 

(Asia) Limited

Instem Scientific Limited

(company number 03861669)

England and Wales

Instem Scientific Solutions Limited 

(company number 03598020)

England and Wales

Instem Scientific Inc.

USA

Instem India Pvt Limited

(company number 

U73100MH2012FTC231951)

India

Instem Clinical Holdings Limited

(company number 05840032)

England and Wales

Instem Clinical Limited

(company number 06959053)

England and Wales

Instem Clinical Inc.

USA

Perceptive Instruments Limited

(company number 02498351)

England and Wales

Instem Japan K.K

(company number 0104-01-120355)

Japan

Samarind Limited

(company number 02105894)

England and Wales

Diamond Way

Stone Business Park

Stone, Staffordshire

ST15 0SD

Diamond Way

Stone Business Park

Stone, Staffordshire

ST15 0SD

Suite 1550

161 Washington Street

8 Tower Bridge

Conshohocken PA 19428

302, Third Floor

Lalani Quantum

Bavdhan (Budruk)

Pune 411021

Diamond Way

Stone Business Park

Stone, Staffordshire

ST15 0SD

Diamond Way

Stone Business Park

Stone, Staffordshire

ST15 0SD

Suite 1550

161 Washington Street

8 Tower Bridge

Conshohocken PA 19428

Diamond Way

Stone Business Park

Stone, Staffordshire

ST15 0SD

Shinagawa

Intercity Tower, A Level 28

2-15-1 Konan, Minato-ku

Tokyo 108-6028

Diamond Way

Leading provider of software solutions 

for extracting intelligence from R&D 

100% by Instem plc

related healthcare data

Dormant

100% by Instem 

Scientific Limited

Leading provider of software solutions 

for extracting intelligence from R&D 

related healthcare data

100% by Instem 

Scientific Limited

Software development

99.9% by Instem 

LSS Limited

0.1% by Instem LSS 

(NA) Limited

Holding of intellectual property

rights and investment in group

100% by Instem plc

companies

Provision of electronic data capture and 

100% by Instem 

clinical management solutions to the 

Clinical Holdings 

pharmaceutical industry

Limited

Provision of electronic data capture and 

100% by Instem 

clinical management solutions to the 

Clinical Holdings 

pharmaceutical industry

Limited

Development, manufacture and supply 

of software and hardware products for 

in vitro study data collection and study 

100% by Instem plc

management in the genetic toxicology, 

microbiology and immunology markets 

Sales, sales support and service

100% by Instem LSS 

Limited

Stone Business Park

Provider of regulatory information 

Stone, Staffordshire

management software

100% by Instem plc

ST15 0SD

Notocord Systems S.A.

113 Chemin de Ronde

(company number 350927349)

Croissy-sur-Seine

Software development, sales support 

and administrative support

100% by Instem plc

France

Notocord Inc.

USA

Paris 78290

Suite 1550

161 Washington Street

Sales, sales support and administrative 

100% by Notocord 

8 Tower Bridge

support

Conshohocken PA 19428

Systems S.A.

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017    47

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

12.  Property, Plant and Equipment

Group

Cost 

At 1 January 2016

Additions

Acquisitions

Disposals

Exchange adjustment

At 31 December 2016

Additions

Disposals

Exchange adjustment

At 31 December 2017

Depreciation

At 1 January 2016

Acquisitions

Depreciation expense

Disposals

Exchange adjustment

At 31 December 2016

Depreciation expense

Disposals

Exchange adjustment

At 31 December 2017

Net book value

At 31 December 2016

At 31 December 2017

Short leasehold 

IT hardware & 

property

£000

software

£000

74

3

-

(1)

3

79

-

-

(1)

78

41

-

14

(1)

3

57

4

-

(1)

60

22

18

2,157

110

103

(1,384)

71

1,057

117

(259)

(22)

893

1,814

73

142

(1,382)

58

705

182

(259)

(16)

612

352

281

Total

£000

2,231

113

103

(1,385)

74

1,136

117

(259)

(23)

971

1,855

73

156

(1,383)

61

762

186

(259)

(17)

672

374

299

IT hardware and software includes assets with a net book value of £0.07m (2016: £0.10m) held under finance lease. The depreciation 
on these assets during the year was £0.03m (2016: £0.03m).

48 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

13.  Inventories

Group

Raw materials

Work in progress

Total gross inventories

14. Trade and Other Receivables

Group

Trade receivables

Amounts recoverable on contracts

Prepayments and accrued income

Company

Amounts owed by group companies

Other receivables   

2017

£000

14

15

29

2017

£000

29

2017

£000

6,104

2,389

977

9,470

2,192

54

2,246

2016

£000

27

889

916

2016

£000

916

2016

£000

5,104

894

901

6,899

2,217

84

2,301

A provision for impairment is made where there is objective evidence of impairment which is usually indicated by a delay in the expected 
cash flows or non-payment from customers.  

An analysis of the provision for impairment of receivables is as follows:

Group

At beginning of year

Increase in provision for impairment

Receivables written off

Reversal of provision for impairment

At end of year

2017

£000

94

64

(31)

(54)

73

2016

£000

232

9

-

(147)

94

The average credit period taken on sale is 88 days (2016: 68 days). No interest has been charged on overdue receivables.

Before accepting any new significant customer, the Group obtains relevant credit references to assess the potential customer’s credit 
quality. Credit limits are defined by customer.

The directors consider that the carrying amount of trade and other receivables approximates to their fair value.

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017    49

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

14. Trade and Other Receivables (continued)

The age profile of the net trade receivables for the Group at the year-end was as follows:

Group

2017

Current

0-30 

days

31-60 

days

Over 60 

days

Total

Debt age

Trade receivables/Amounts recoverable 

on contracts

Value (£000)

5,011

1,806

1,012

%

59

21

12

664

8

8,493

100

Group

2016

Current

0-30 

days

31-60 

days

Over 60 

days

Total

Debt age

Trade receivables/Amounts recoverable 

on contracts

Value (£000)

%

4,434

74

565

10

501

8

498

8

5,998

100

The maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting date is the carrying value of each class of receivables mentioned above. The 
Group does not hold any collateral as security.

An analysis of trade and other receivables by currency is as follows:

Group

Sterling

Euro

US Dollar

Renminbi

Other

2017

£000

3,928

576

4,551

288

127

9,470

2016

£000

2,511

784

3,056

488

60

6,899

50 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

15. Financial Asset

Group and Company

Forward foreign exchange contract

2017

£000

-

2016

£000

10

As at 31 December 2016 the Group and Company had one short term forward foreign exchange contract to purchase Euros at a 
guaranteed rate. The above represented the fair value of the contract at 31 December 2016. There were no contracts in place as at 31 
December 2017. 

16. Cash and Cash Equivalents

Group

Cash at bank

Bank overdraft 

Company

Cash at bank

2017

£000

12,062

(8,998)

3,064

1,036

2016

£000

13,187

(8,998)

4,189

2,221

The Group’s overdraft facility has a net limit of £2.0m and a gross limit of £9.0m.  Interest is charged on the bank overdraft at 2.75% 
above base rate.  The bank overdraft is secured by fixed and floating charges over certain Group assets.  The bank facility is reviewed 
in April each year. 

There is a debenture in favour of National Westminster Bank Plc, dated 13 April 2011, secured over the assets of the Group by way of 
fixed and floating charges, in respect of the Group’s overdraft facility.

An analysis of cash and cash equivalents by currency is as follows:

Group

Sterling

Euro

US Dollar

Renminbi

Other

Company

Sterling

Euro

2017

£000

(1,539)

683

3,034

828

58

3,064

1,036

-

1,036

2016

£000

(1,138)

1,687

2,329

1,243

68

4,189

1,165

1,056

2,221

The carrying amount of these assets approximates to their fair value. 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017    51

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

17.  Trade and Other Payables

Group - Current

Trade payables

Other taxation and social security costs

Accruals

Company - Current

Trade payables

Amounts owed to group companies

Accruals

An analysis of trade and other payables by currency is as follows:

Group

Sterling

Euro

US Dollar

Renminbi

Other

Company

Sterling

2017

£000

548

410

1,819

2,777

35

3,659

182

3,876

2017

£000

1,547

246

918

15

51

2,777

3,876

2016

£000

632

276

1,762

2,670

78

4,125

129

4,332

2016

£000

1,595

272

725

31

47

2,670

4,332

The directors consider that the carrying amount of trade and other payables approximates to fair value due to their short maturities.  

The maturity analysis of the trade and other payables for the Group at the year-end was as follows:

Group

2017

Trade and other payables (£000)

%

Group

2016

Trade and other payables (£000)

%

Current

2,370

86

Current

2,634

99

0-30 

days

369

13

0-30 

days

24

1

31-60 

days

Over 60 

days

34

1

4

-

31-60 

days

Over 60 

days

-

-

12

-

Total

2,777

100

Total

2,670

100

52 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

18.  Current Taxation

The Group current tax receivable of £1.3m and payable of £0.2m (2016: payable of £0.4m) represents the amount of income taxes 
receivable and payable in respect of current and prior years. 

The Company current tax payable is £nil (2016: £nil). 

19.  Financial Liabilities

Group

2017

Deferred contingent consideration

Finance lease liabilities 

Total

£000

188

83

271

Less than 

One to 

More than 

one year

two years

two years

£000

£000

£000

188

32

220

-

51

51

-

-

-

Company

Less than 

One to 

More than 

2017

Total

£000

one year

two years

two years

£000

£000

£000

Deferred contingent consideration

188

188

-

-

Group

2016

Deferred contingent consideration

Finance lease liabilities 

Total

£000

1,108

113

1,221

Less than 

One to 

More than 

one year

two years

two years

£000

£000

£000

950

29

979

158

32

190

-

52

52

Company

Less than 

One to 

More than 

2016

Total

£000

one year

two years

two years

£000

£000

£000

Deferred contingent consideration

1,108

950

158

-

Deferred contingent consideration

The deferred contingent consideration above includes £0.2m (2016: £0.6m) in respect of the acquisition of Samarind Limited and £nil 
(2016: £0.5m) in respect of the acquisition of Notocord Systems S.A.

The estimation of deferred consideration in respect of the acquisition of Samarind Limited and Notocord Systems S.A. as at 31 Decem-
ber 2016 was contingent on performance criteria relating to 2017.  As at 31 December 2017 there are no remaining performance criteria. 

The carrying value of all deferred consideration has been discounted by an appropriate rate to take account of the time to maturity.  
Further details are provided in note 20.

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017    53

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

19.  Financial Liabilities (continued)

Finance lease liabilities

Minimum lease payments

Present value of minimum 

lease payment

31 December 

31 December 

31 December 

31 December 

2017

2016

2017

2016

Not later than one year

Later than one year and not later than five years

Less future finance charges

Present value of minimum lease payments

36

54

90

(7)

83

36

90

126

(13)

113

32

51

83

-

83

29

84

113

-

113

Reconcilitaion of liability arising from financing 

31 December 2017

31 December 2016

activities

At the beginning of the year

Repayment of finance leases

At the end of the year

£000

113

(30)

83

£000

145

(32)

113

20. Financial Instruments

All financial instruments held by the Group, as detailed in this note, are classified as “Loans and Receivables” (trade and other 
receivables, excluding prepayments, and cash and cash equivalents), “Financial Liabilities Measured at Amortised Cost” (trade and 
other payables, excluding statutory liabilities, and deferred consideration) and “Fair value through profit and loss” (other financial 
liabilities which reflect deferred contingent consideration, and a forward contract shown as a financial asset) under IAS 39 ‘Financial 
Instruments: Recognition and Measurement’.

The tables on the following pages analyse recurring assets and liabilities carried at fair value.  The different levels are defined as follows:

Level 1: Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the entity can access at the measurement 
date.

Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly.

Level 3: Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability.

2017
Group and Company

Level 1
£000

Level 2
£000

Level 3
£000

Total
£000

Deferred contingent consideration

-

-

(188)

(188)

2016

Group and Company

Level 1

£000

Level 2

£000

Financial asset

Deferred contingent consideration

-

-

-

10

-

10

Level 3

£000

-

(1,108)

(1,108)

Total

£000

10

(1,108)

(1,098)

The valuation of the financial asset has been made with reference to the guaranteed rate within the forward contract and an appropriate 

forward rate as at 31 December 2016.

54 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

20. Financial Instruments (continued)

The following table shows a reconciliation from the opening balances as at 1 January 2017 to the closing balances as at 31 December 
2017 for Level 3 fair value measurements in respect of both the Group and Company.

Deferred contingent consideration

Balance as at 1 January 2017

Cash repayment in the year

Satisfied by share consideration

Unwinding discount*

Change in fair value**

Adjustment in respect of foreign exchange*

Balance as at 31 December 2017

£000

1,108

(687)

(175)

71

(148)

19

188

* Recognised in consolidated statement of comprehensive income and reflected in finance income
** Recognised in consolidated statement of comprehensive income and reflected in non-recurring income/(costs)

FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT

The Group’s activities expose it to a variety of financial risks. The main financial risks managed by the Group, under policies approved 
by the Board, are interest rate risk, foreign currency risk, liquidity risk and credit risk. 

The Group has in place risk management policies that seek to limit the adverse effects on the financial performance of the Group by 
using various instruments and techniques.  Derivative financial instruments are only used to hedge exposures arising in respect of 
underlying business requirements and not for any speculative purpose.  

Foreign exchange risk

The Group operates internationally and is exposed to foreign currency risk on transactions denominated in a currency other than the 
functional currency and on the translation of the statement of financial position and statement of comprehensive income of foreign 
operations into sterling.  The currencies giving rise to this risk are primarily US dollars.  The Group has both cash inflows and outflows in 
this currency that create a natural hedge.  

In managing currency risks the Group aims to reduce the impact of short-term fluctuations on the Group’s cash inflows and outflows in a 
foreign currency.  The Group also hedges any material foreign currency transaction exposure.  

Over the longer term, changes in foreign exchange could have an impact on consolidation of foreign subsidiaries earnings.  A 10% 
decrease in the average value of Sterling against the US dollar would have resulted in an increase in the Group’s profit before tax by 
approximately £0.3m (2016: £0.3m).

Interest rate risk 

The Group operates an interest rate policy designed to minimise interest costs and reduce volatility in reported earnings.

The Group’s bank facility does not allow the US Dollar cash balances to generate interest therefore the Group transfers funds from 
the US dollar account into the sterling account.  Currency transfers have been utilised to maximise the interest gains whilst minimising 
foreign exchange risks.

As at 31 December 2017, the indications are that the UK bank base interest rate will not materially differ over the next 12 months.  On 
the basis of the net cash position at 31 December 2017 and assuming no other changes occur (such as material changes in currency 
exchange rates) the change in interest rates will not have a material impact on net interest income/(expense). 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017    55

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

20. Financial Instruments (continued)

2017

Group

Trade and other receivables

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other payables

Deferred contingent consideration

Finance lease

2016

Group

Trade and other receivables

Financial asset

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other payables

Deferred contingent consideration

Finance lease

2017

Company

Trade and other receivables

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other payables

Deferred contingent consideration

2016

Company

Trade and other receivables

Financial asset

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other payables

Deferred contingent consideration

Fixed
rate
£000

-

-

-

-

(83)

(83)

Fixed
rate
£000

-

-

-

-

-

(113)

(113)

Fixed
rate
£000

-

-

-

-

-

Floating
rate
£000

Non-interest 
bearing
£000

-

3,064

-

-

-

3,064

8,493 

-

(2,367)

(188)

-

5,938

Floating
rate
£000

Non-interest 
bearing
£000

-

-

4,189

-

-

-

4,189

5,998

10

-

(2,394)

(1,108)

-

2,506

Floating
rate
£000

Non-interest 
bearing
£000

-

1,036

-

-

1,036

2,246

-

(3,876)

(188)

(1,818)

Fixed
rate
£000

Floating
rate
£000

Non-interest 
bearing
£000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

2,221

-

-

2,221

2,301

10

-

(4,322)

(1,108)

(3,129)

Total
£000

8,493

3,064

(2,367)

(188)

(83)

8,919

Total
£000

5,998

10

4,189

(2,394)

(1,108)

(113)

6,582

Total
£000

2,246

1,036

(3,876)

(188)

(782)

Total
£000

2,301

10

2,221

(4,322)

(1,108)

(908)

56 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

20. Financial Instruments (continued)

Credit risk

Management aims to minimise the risk of credit losses.

The Group’s financial assets are bank balances and cash and trade and other receivables, which represent the Group’s maximum 
exposure to credit risk in relation to financial assets.

The Group’s credit risk is primarily attributable to its trade receivables and the Group has policies in place to ensure that sales of 
products and services are made to customers with appropriate creditworthiness. 

The amounts presented in the statement of financial position are net of impairment provisions, estimated by the Group’s management 
based on prior experience and their assessment of the present value of estimated future cash flows. An allowance for impairment is 
made where there is an identified loss event which, based on previous experience, is evidence of a reduction in the recoverability of the 
cash flows. 

The Group generates external revenue from no customers which individually amount to more than 10% of the Group revenue (2016: 
nil).  

The Group’s exposure to losses from defaults on trade receivables is reduced due to contractual terms which require installation, 
training, annual licensing and support fees to be invoiced and paid annually in advance.   

Note 14 sets out the impairment provision for credit losses on trade receivables and the ageing analysis of overdue trade receivables.  
There were no impairment losses recognised on other financial assets.

Liquidity risk 

Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group will not be able to meet its financial commitments as they fall due.

The Group’s objective is to ensure that adequate facilities are available through use of bank overdrafts and finance leases.  The Group 
manages liquidity risk through regular cash flow forecasting and monitoring of cash flows, management review and regular review of 
working capital and costs.

The Group regularly monitors its available headroom under its borrowing facilities.  At 31 December 2017, its £2.0m bank facility was 
undrawn (2016: £2.0m undrawn).

In respect of the Group’s interest-bearing financial liabilities, the table in note 19 includes details at the reporting date of the periods in 
which they mature.

21.  Deferred Tax

Group

Deferred tax asset

 Amounts due to be recovered within 12 months

 Amounts due to be recovered after 12 months

Total deferred tax

2017

£000

-

300

300

2016

£000

-

947

947

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017    57

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

21.  Deferred Tax (continued)

The movement in the year in the Group’s net deferred tax asset position was as follows:

At beginning of the year

Net (charge)/credit to income for the year

Net (debit)/credit to equity

Arising on acquisitions during the year

Adjustments in respect of prior years

Effect of domestic tax rate change on opening balances

At end of the year

2017

£000

947

(177)

(113)

-

(357)

-

300

2016

£000

663

804

215

(762)

73

(46)

947

The following are the major deferred tax assets and liabilities recognised by the Group and the movements thereon during the year:

Accelerated 

tax 

Retirement 

benefit 

Other 

timing 

depreciation

Tax losses

obligations

differences

Deferred tax asset/(liability)

At 1 January 2016

Credit/(charge) to profit or loss for the year

Credit to equity for the year

Arising on acquisitions

Adjustments in respect of prior years

Effects of domestic tax rate change on opening 

balances

At 31 December 2016

Credit/(charge) to profit or loss for the year

Debit to equity for the year

Adjustments in respect of prior years

£000

(468)

155

-

(762)

223

17

(835)

177

-

-

At 31 December 2017

(658)

£000

257

654

-

-

-

(14)

897

(70)

-

(133)

694

£000

707

(76)

215

-

-

(39)

807

(56)

(113)

-

638

£000

167

71

-

-

(150)

(10)

78

(228)

-

(224)

(374)

Total

£000

663

804

215

(762)

73

(46)

947

(177)

(113)

(357)

300

Management have recognised deferred tax assets in relation to tax losses based on forecast profitability of the Group companies 
concerned.

Unrecognised tax losses not included at 31 December 2017 were £0.3m (2016: £nil) due to uncertainty over the timing of the 
recoverability of these losses.

58 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

22.  Retirement Benefit Obligations

The Group has four active defined contribution schemes and a closed defined benefit scheme:

Defined contribution pension schemes

Group Personal Pension Plan - the Scheme was created on 31 December 2008.  The Scheme is a contributory money purchase 
scheme with the employer matching employee contributions to a maximum of 5%.  The employer also contributes to the Scheme for 
former members of Instem LSS Pension Scheme at rates varying from 5% to 18%.  Employer contributions for the year ended 31 
December 2017 were £0.46m (2016: £0.57m).

Contracted In Money Purchase Scheme (CIMP) - the Scheme was created on 31 December 2008.  The Scheme is a non-contributory 
scheme created for former members of the Instem LSS Pension Scheme who are US residents.  Employer contributions for the year 
ended 31 December 2017 were £0.03m (2016: £0.03m).

Instem LSS (North America) Limited 401k Plan - the Scheme was created for the benefit of employees of Instem LSS (North America) 
Limited in the USA.  The Scheme is a contributory money purchase scheme with the employer matching contributions to the scheme to 
a maximum of 4.8%.  Employer contributions for the year ended 31 December 2017 were £0.11m (2016: £0.08m).

BioWisdom GPP Scheme - the Scheme is a Group Personal Pension arrangement with Winterthur Life (now part of Friends Life) and 
was set up in 2001.  Employee members must contribute at least 3% of basic salary and the employer contributes up to a maximum of 
6%.  Employer contributions for the year ended 31 December 2017 were £0.02m (2016: £0.02m).

Perceptive Instruments Limited - The Group made contributions to personal pension arrangements of certain employees. Following the 
introduction of auto enrolment on 1 July 2016 these employees were entered into the Group Personal Pension Plan.  During the year 
ended 31 December 2017 employer contributions to these arrangements prior to auto enrollment totalled £nil. (2016: £0.01m)

Samarind Group Pension Plan - The Scheme is a Group Personal Pension arrangement with Scottish Widows. Employee members 
must contribute at least 3% and the employer contributes up a maximum of 3% to the Scheme.  During the year ended 31 December 
2017 the employer made contributions of £0.02m (2016: £0.01m).  These arrangements moved to the Group Personal Pension Plan on 
1 November 2017.

Defined benefit pension scheme

The Group also operates a pension scheme providing benefits based on final pensionable pay.  This scheme was closed to new 
members with effect from 8 October 2001 and the rate of future benefit accrual reduced from 1/60th of final pensionable pay per year of 
service to 1/80th with effect from 6 April 2003.  The scheme closed to future accrual on 31 December 2008.  

The Scheme is subject to the Statutory Funding Objective under the Pensions Act 2004. A valuation of the Scheme is carried out at least 
once every three years to determine whether the Statutory Funding Objective is met. As part of the process, the Group must agree with 
the Trustees of the Scheme the contributions to be paid to address any shortfall against the Statutory Funding. The Statutory Funding 
Objective does not currently impact on the recognition of the Scheme in the accounts.  The Scheme is in deficit and no contributions 
payable under a minimum funding requirement are considered potentially refundable or utilisable as a reduction of future contributions.  
IFRIC interpretation 14 is deemed to be not applicable to the Group.

The Scheme is managed by a Board of Trustees appointed in part by the Group and part from elections by members of the Scheme. 
The Trustees have responsibility for obtaining valuations of the Scheme, administering benefit payments and investing the Scheme 
assets. The Trustees delegate some of these functions to their professional advisors where appropriate.

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017    59

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

22.  Retirement Benefit Obligations (continued)

The Scheme exposes the Group to a number of risks:

• 

• 

• 

Investment risk. The Scheme holds investments in asset classes, such as equities, which have volatile market values and while 
these assets are expected to provide the real returns over the long-term, the short-term volatility can cause additional funding to be 
required if deficit emerges.

Interest rate risk. The Scheme’s liabilities are assessed using market yields on high quality corporate bonds to discount the 
liabilities. As the Scheme holds assets such as equities the value of the assets and liabilities may not move in the same way.

Inflation risk.  A significant proportion of the benefits under the Scheme are linked to inflation. Although the Scheme’s assets 
are expected to provide a good hedge against inflation over the long-term, movements over the short-term could lead to deficits 
emerging.

•  Mortality risk. In the event that members live longer than assumed a deficit will emerge in the Scheme.

There were no Scheme amendments, curtailments or settlements during the year.

The latest full actuarial valuation was carried out at 5 April 2014 and was updated to 31 December 2017 by a qualified independent 
actuary.  

The following schedule of contributions was prepared by the Trustees of the Instem LSS Pension Scheme (‘the Scheme’) after obtaining 
the advice of the Scheme Actuary appointed by the Trustees and was intended to clear the deficit in the Scheme at the time it was 
agreed in June 2015: 

Period ended

31 March 2016

31 March 2017

31 March 2018

31 March 2019

31 March 2020

31 March 2021

31 March 2022

31 March 2023

30 November 2023

Monthly payment (payable in each month 

Balancing payment due before period end 

except the final month in each period) £’000

£’000

15

25

25

25

25

25

25

25

25

262

187

203

220

237

255

273

293

239

The employer pays the Pension Protection Fund levy each year in respect of the scheme.  It is intended that all other expenses 
associated with the running of the Scheme will be met from the Scheme’s assets.

The expected return on plan assets was determined by considering the expected returns available on the assets underlying the current 
investment portfolio.  Expected yields on bonds are based on gross redemption yields at the reporting date whilst the expected returns 
on the equity and property investments reflect the long-term real rates of return experienced in the respective markets. 

60 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

22.  Retirement Benefit Obligations (continued)

Discount rate

Inflation (RPI)

Rate of increase in salaries

Rate of increase in pensions in payment

Rate of increase in pensions in deferment

2017

%

2.65

3.10

N/A

3.00

3.10

Life Expectancy assumption (number of years from the age of 65)

Years

Male currently aged 45

Female currently aged 45

Male currently aged 65

Female currently aged 65

ANALYSIS OF AMOUNT CHARGED TO FINANCE COSTS

Interest on pension scheme assets

Interest on pension scheme liabilities

Net finance charge

ANALYSIS OF AMOUNT RECOGNISED IN OTHER COMPREHENSIVE EXPENSE

Gains on pension scheme assets in excess of interest

Experience gains on liabilities

Gains from changes to demographic assumptions 

Losses from changes to financial assumptions

Actuarial (gain)/loss recognised in other comprehensive expense

CHANGES IN THE PRESENT VALUE OF THE DEFINED BENEFIT OBLIGATION

24.3

25.3

23.2

24.1

2017
£000

278

(407)

(129)

2017

£000

(686)

(183)

(156)

361

(664)

2017

£000

Opening defined benefit obligation

14,436

Interest cost

Benefits paid

Experience gain on liabilities

Changes to demographic assumptions

Changes to financial assumptions

407

(316)

(183)

(156)

361

2016

%

2.85

3.30

N/A

3.00

3.30

Years

24.5

25.8

23.3

24.3

2016

£000

304

(443)

(139)

2016

£000

(1,252)

-

(133)

2,577

1,192

2016

£000

11,782

443

(233)

-

(133)

2,577

Closing defined benefit obligation

14,549

14,436

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017    61

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

22.  Retirement Benefit Obligations (continued)

CHANGES IN THE FAIR VALUE OF PLAN ASSETS

Opening plan assets

Expected return

Return on plan assets less interest

Contributions by employer

2017

£000

9,690

278

686

461

Benefits paid

(316)

Closing plan assets

10,799

The actual return on plan assets was a positive return of £0.96m (2016: £1.56m).

AMOUNT RECOGNISED IN THE CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL 

POSITION

2017

£000

2016

£000

7,849

304

1,252

518

(233)

9,690

2016

£000

Present value of funded obligations

(14,549)

(14,436)

Fair value of plan assets

Deficit

Related deferred tax asset

10,799

(3,750)

638

Net pension liability

(3,112)

RECONCILIATION OF NET DEFINED BENEFIT LIABILITY

Opening net defined benefit liability

Net interest expense

Remeasurements

Contributions by employer

2017

£000

4,746

129

(664)

(461)

Closing net defined benefit liability

3,750

9,690

(4,746)

807

(3,939)

2016

£000

3,933

139

1,192

(518)

4,746

Cumulative

Cumulative

ANALYSIS OF CUMULATIVE AMOUNT RECOGNISED IN OTHER COMPREHENSIVE 

EXPENSE

Actual return less expected return on pension scheme assets

Experience gains and losses arising on scheme liabilities

Changes in demographic assumptions

Changes in assumptions underlying the present value of the scheme liabilities

Cumulative actuarial loss recognised in other comprehensive expense

2017

£000

2,048

(1,628)

289

(5,380)

(4,671)

2016

£000

1,362

(1,811)

133

(5,019)

(5,335)

62 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

       
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

22.  Retirement Benefit Obligations (continued)

MAJOR CATEGORIES OF PLAN ASSETS AS A PERCENTAGE OF FAIR VALUE OF TOTAL PLAN ASSETS

2017

2016

Equities

Property

Bonds

Corporate Bonds

Cash

Other

£000

7,468

438

1,104

1,028

553

208

%

69

4

10

10

5

2

The five-year history of experience adjustments is as follows:

10,799

100

£000

6,959

301

1,232

167

424

607

9,690

%

72

3

13

2

4

6

100

2017
£000

2016
£000

2015
£000

2014
£000

2013
£000

Present value of defined benefit 

obligation

(14,549)

(14,436)

(11,782)

(11,405)

(10,529)

Fair value of plan assets

10,799

9,690

7,849

7,524

7,023

Deficit

(3,750)

(4,746)

(3,933)

(3,881)

(3,506)

Experience gains/(loss) on plan 

liabilities

156

-

-

(138)

Return on plan assets less interest

686

1,252

(136)

(7)

-

612

The Group expects to contribute £0.5m to its defined benefit plan in the next financial year (2016: £0.5m).

The following sensitivities apply to the value placed on the liabilities:

Adjustments to assumptions

Approximate effect on

Liabilities

£000

DISCOUNT RATE

Plus 0.50% pa

Minus 0.50% pa

INFLATION

Plus 0.50% pa

Minus 0.50% pa

LIFE EXPECTANCY

Plus 1 year

Minus 1 year

(1,279)

1,460

1,229

(1,104)

(485)

490

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017    63

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

23.  Provision for Liabilities and Charges

At 1 January

Increase in provision during the year

At 31 December

During the year the Group made a provision of £0.25m in respect of historical contract disputes. 

24.  Share Capital

Allotted, called up and fully paid

At 1 January

15,771,398 ordinary shares of 10p each (2016: 13,043,774)

115,262 (2016: 2,727,624) ordinary shares of 10p each, issued during the year

At 31 December

2017

£000

-

250

250

2017

£000

1,577

12

1,589

2016

£000

-

-

-

2016

£000

1,304

273

1,577

On 5 June 2017, the Company issued 88,608 new ordinary shares in respect of partly satisfying the deferred consideration of the 
acquisition of Samarind Limited. In addition, 26,654 shares were issued during the year in respect of the exercise of share options.

64 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

25.  Earnings Per Share

Basic and Fully Diluted

Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing the profit attributable to ordinary shareholders by the weighted average number of 
ordinary shares in issue during the year.  Diluted earnings per share is calculated by adjusting the weighted number of ordinary shares 
outstanding to assume conversion of all dilutive potential shares arising from the share option scheme.  The dilutive impact of the share 
options is calculated by determining the number of shares that could have been acquired at fair value (determined as the average 
market share price of the Company’s shares) based on the monetary value of the subscription rights attached to the outstanding share 
options. 

2017

Weighted 
average 
number of 
shares (000’s)

15,831

328

16,159

Earnings per 
share  (pence)

Profit after 
tax (£000)

6.9

-

6.8

1,058

-

1,058

2016

Weighted 
average 
number of 
shares (000’s)

15,302

324

15,626

Earnings per 
share  (pence)

6.9

-

6.8

Profit after 
tax (£000)

Earnings per share - Basic

1,094

Potentially dilutive shares

-

Earnings per share - Diluted

1,094

Adjusted

Adjusted earnings per share is calculated after adjusting for the effect of foreign currency exchange on the revaluation of inter-group 
balances included in finance income/(costs), non-recurring items and amortisation of intangibles on acquisitions. Diluted adjusted 
earnings per share is calculated by adjusting the weighted number of ordinary shares outstanding to assume conversion of all dilutive 
potential shares arising from the share option scheme.  The dilutive impact of the share options is calculated by determining the number 
of shares that could have been acquired at fair value (determined as the average market share price of the Company’s shares) based 
on the monetary value of the subscription rights attached to the outstanding share options. 

Adjusted 
profit after 
tax (£000)

Earnings per share - Basic

2,234

Potentially dilutive shares

-

Earnings per share - Diluted

2,234

2017

Weighted 
average 
number of 
shares (000’s)

15,831

328

16,159

Adjusted 
earnings per 
share  (pence)

Adjusted 
profit after 
tax (£000)

14.1

-

13.8

1,752

-

1,752

2016

Weighted 
average 
number of 
shares (000’s)

15,302

324

15,626

Reconciliation of adjusted profit after tax:

Reported profit after tax

Non-recurring costs/(income)

Amortisation of acquired intangibles

Foreign exchange differences on revaluation of inter-group balances

Adjusted profit after tax

2017

£000

1,094

443

931

(234)

2,234

Adjusted 
earnings per 
share  (pence)

11.5

-

11.2

2016

£000

1,058

(619)

667

646

1,752

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017    65

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

26.  Capital and Reserves

Share capital

The share capital account represents the par value for all shares issued.  The Company has one class of share and each share rank 
parri passu and carry equal rights.

Share premium account

The share premium account is used to record amounts received in excess of the nominal value of shares on issue of new shares less 
the costs of new share issues.

Merger reserve

The merger reserve represents the difference between the consideration payable at the date of acquisition, net of merger relief, and the 
share capital and share premium of Instem Life Science Systems Limited.

Shares to be issued

The shares to be issued reserve represents the shares to be issued under the share option scheme and shares contingently issuable on 
acquisitions.

Translation reserve

The translation reserve incorporates the cumulative net exchange gains and losses recognised on the translation of subsidiary company 
financial information to the presentational currency of Sterling (£). 

Retained earnings

The retained earnings reserve includes the accumulated profits and losses arising from the consolidated ‘Statement of Comprehensive 
Income’ and certain items from ‘Other Comprehensive Income’ attributable to equity shareholders net of distributions to shareholders.

CAPITAL MANAGEMENT

The Group’s main objective when managing capital is to protect returns to shareholders by ensuring the Group will continue to trade 
profitably in the foreseeable future.  The Group also aims to maximise the capital structure of debt and equity so as to minimise its cost 
of capital.

The Group manages its capital with regard to the risks inherent in the business and the sector within which it operates by monitoring its 
gearing ratio on a regular basis. 

The Group considers its capital to include share capital, share premium, merger reserve, shares to be issued, translation reserve, 
retained earnings and net debt as noted below. 

Net debt includes short and long-term borrowings (including overdrafts and lease obligations) net of cash and cash equivalents.  

The Group has not made any changes to its capital management during the year.

27.  Capital Commitments

There were no capital commitments at the end of the financial year (2016: £nil).

66 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

28. Operating Leases Payable

Minimum lease payments under operating leases recognised as 

an expense in the year

At the reporting date, the Group has future aggregate minimum 

lease payments, which fall due as follows:

Land and buildings

  Within one year

  In the second to fifth year inclusive

  After five years

Plant and machinery

  Within one year

  In the second to fifth year inclusive

2017

£000

582

2017

£000

461

1,369

368

24

20

2016

£000

520

2016

£000

444

778

236

10

13

2,242

1,481

Operating lease payments represent rentals payable by the Group for property leases and certain equipment.  Leases have varying 
terms and renewal rights.  The above leasing arrangements do not contain any restrictive covenants, contingent rents or purchase 
options.

The operating leases in relation to the office buildings contain a dilapidation clause whereby Instem plc must make good any damage to 
the demised premises on expiration of the lease.  The Directors estimate that the current liability is not material to warrant provision at 
the period end.

No operating leases are held by the Company.

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017    67

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2017

29.  Related Party Transactions

Transactions between Group companies have not been disclosed as these have all been eliminated in the preparation of the 
consolidated financial statements.  During the year, the Company traded with subsidiary companies in its normal course of business.  
These transactions related to recharges and totalled in aggregate £0.7m (2016: £0.6m).  The net intercompany balances due from the 
Company at the year-end totalled £1.5m (2016: due from: £1.9m).

During the year, the Group traded in its normal course of business with shareholders and consultancy businesses in which Directors 
have a material interest as follows:

2017

£000

2016

£000

Key management compensation:

Group and Company

Fees for services provided as Non-Executive Directors

Salaries and short-term benefits

Post-employment retirement benefits

Employers’ national insurance & social security costs

Share based payment charge

90

-

10

-

100

Group

Executive Directors

Salaries and short-term benefits

340

Post-employment retirement benefits

Employers’ national insurance & social security costs

Share based payment charge

40

24

73

477

Group

Other key management

Salaries and short-term employee benefits

1,029

Post-employment retirement benefits

Employers’ national insurance & social security costs

Share based payment charge

51

67

66

1,213

82

-

9

-

91

335

40

25

105

505

567

49

55

84

755

The Company paid £0.05m (2016: £0.05m) to Instem Ventures Limited, a company owned by A Gare, a shareholder.  The balance 
outstanding at the end of the year was £nil (2016: £nil).

In addition, the Company paid £0.03m (2016: £0.03m) to Noble Adamson Limited, a company owned by M McGoun, an independent 
non-executive director and a shareholder.  The balance outstanding at the end of the year was £nil (2016: £0.009m).

In November 2016, the Group made a loan of £0.07m to a member of the key management team. Interest is accrued at a rate of 3%. 
The balance outstanding at the end of the year was £0.07m (2016: £0.07m).

Key management are considered to be the Directors together with the Senior Managers of the business. 

30.  Contingent Liabilities

Instem plc has provided a guarantee to its subsidiaries which have taken advantage of the exemption from audit.  Under this guarantee, 
the company has a contingent liability of £9.0m (2016: £9.0m).

68 

Instem plc Annual Report, 2017  

Directors and Advisors

DIRECTORS 
D Gare (Non-Executive Chairman) 
M F McGoun (Independent Non-Executive) D M 
Sherwin (Non- Executive) 
P J Reason 
N J Goldsmith

AUDITOR 
RSM UK Audit LLP
Chartered Accountants
14th Floor 
Chapel Street
Liverpool
L3 9AG

SECRETARY 
N J Goldsmith

REGISTERED OFFICE 
Diamond Way 
Stone Business Park 
Stone 
Staffordshire 
ST15 0SD 

Tel: +44 1785 825600 
Fax: +44 1785 825633 

www.instem.com

Company No: 07148099

BANKER 
National Westminster Bank plc 
1 Spinningfields Square 
Manchester 
M2 3AP

NOMINATED ADVISOR AND BROKER 
N+1 Singer Advisory LLP 
One Bartholomew Lane 
London  
EC2N 2AX

REGISTRARS 
Computershare Investor Services plc 
The Pavilions 
Bridgwater Road 
Bristol  
BS13 8AE

SOLICITORS 
Squire Patton Boggs (UK) LLP 
Trinity Court 
16 John Dalton Street 
Manchester 
M60 8HS

Our clients include these fine organisations...

  Instem supports over 500 clients 

through full service offices in the 
United States, United Kingdom, 
France and China with additional 
locations in India and Japan.

To learn more about Instem 
solutions and its mission, please 
visit instem.com

UK

Global Headquarters 

UK & European Operations

Diamond Way

Stone Business Park

Stone

Staffordshire, ST15 0SD

United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0) 1785 825600

USA

North American Headquarters

Eight Tower Bridge

161 Washington Street

Suite 1550, 15th Floor

Conshohocken, PA 19428

United States

Tel: +1 (610) 941 0990

China

Asia-Pacific Headquarters

Room 205, Building 16

88 Darwin Road

Zhangjiang High-Tech Park, Pudong District

Shanghai

China, 201203

Tel: +86 (0) 21 5131 2080

e-mail: investors@instem.com

instem.com