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Joules Group Plc

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FY2016 Annual Report · Joules Group Plc
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B R I G H T E N I N G

U P   T H E

F U T U R E

A N N U A L  R E P O R T  &  A C C O U N T S  2015/16

a s   w e   s a i d ,   t h i s   i s   a   c o l o u r f u l  s t o r y , 

b u t   o u r   f a c t s   a n d   f i g u r e s 

a r e   b l a c k   a n d   w h i t e . 

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain information contained in this document, including any information as to the Group’s strategy, plans or future f inancial or operating performance, 

constitutes ‘‘forward-looking statements’’. These forward-looking statements may be identif ied by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the terms 

‘‘believes’’, ‘‘estimates’’, ‘‘anticipates’’, ‘‘projects’’, ‘‘expects’’, ‘‘intends’’, ‘‘aims’’, ‘‘plans’’, ‘‘predicts’’, ‘‘may’’, ‘‘will’’, ‘‘seeks’’ ‘‘could’’ ‘‘targets’’ ‘‘assumes’’ ‘‘positioned’’ 

or ‘‘should’’ or, in each case, their negative or other variations or comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategy, plans, objectives, goals, future events or 

intentions. These forward-looking statements include all matters that are not historical facts. They appear in a number of places throughout this document and 

include statements regarding the intentions, beliefs or current expectations of the Directors concerning, among other things, the Group’s results of operations, 

f inancial condition, prospects, growth, strategies and the industries in which the Group operates.

By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that may or may not 

occur in the future or are beyond the Group’s control. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Even if the Group’s actual results 

of operations, f inancial condition and the development of the industries in which the Group operates are consistent with the forward-looking statements 

contained in this document, those results or developments may not be indicative of results or developments in subsequent periods.

The forward-looking statements contained in this document speak only as of the date of this document. The Group and its Directors expressly disclaim any 

obligation or undertaking to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, 

unless required to do so by applicable law, the AIM Rules for Companies or the Disclosure and Transparency Rules.

Con tents    1

C O N T E N T S

HIGHLIGHTS 

CHAPTER 1 - STR ATEGIC REPORT 

Chairman’s Statement 

Chief Executive’s Strategic Report 

Financial Review   

Principal Risks and Uncertainties 

Social Responsibility 

CHAPTER 2 - CORPOR ATE GOVERNANCE 

Board of Directors 

Governance Framework 

Audit Committee Report 

Nomination Committee Report 

Directors’ Remuneration Report 

Directors’ Report  

Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities 

CHAPTER 3 - CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

Auditor’s Report 

Consolidated Income Statement 

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income 

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position 

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity 

Consolidated Cash Flow Statement   

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 

Company Balance Sheet 

Company Statement of Changes in Equity 

Notes to the Company Financial Statements   

Company Information 

2 -  3

8 - 9

10 - 15 

16 - 17

18 - 19

20 - 21

24

25 - 27

29

30

31 - 35

36 - 37

39

42

43

44

45

46

47

48 - 75

76

76

78 - 80

81

Company Secretary: 

Jonathan William Dargie

Registered Off ice: 

Joules Building, The Point, Rockingham Road, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 7QU

Nominated Adviser: 

Peel Hunt LLP, Moor House, 120 London Wall, London, EC2Y 5ET

Brokers: 

Peel Hunt LLP, Moor House, 120 London Wall, London, EC2Y 5ET

Liberum Capital Limited, Ropemaker Place, Level 12, 25 Ropemaker Street, London, EC2Y 9LY

Auditor: 

Deloitte LLP, 1 Woodborough Road, Nottingham, NG1 3FG

Registrars:   

Equiniti Limited, Aspect House, Spencer Road, Lancing, BN99 6DA 

Joules Group plc - Registered in England and Wales number: 10164829

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2    Hi gh li ghts

H I G H L I G H T S

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Revenue increased by 14.2% 1 to £131.3 million

Underlying 2 Profit Before Tax increased by 41.5% to   

£7.5 million

Underlying EBITDA 3 increased by 28.6% to £13.5 million

Cash f low from operations £16.9 million 

Active 4 customers increased by 33% to 824,000

Joules.com website re-launched: mobile conversion 

rates up by 0.5 percentage points in the year

• 

International revenue increased by 24.7% - now 

representing 10.1% of Group revenue

• 

Sales growth experienced in every channel and   

product category 

• 

Successful admission to AIM on 26 May 2016

Reconciliation to statutory profit before tax:

1. On a comparable 52 week basis, FY15 was a   

53 week period. Reported revenue growth 12.8%. 

£MILLION

2. Underlying excludes exceptional and   

non-recurring items, primarily related to the   

costs of admission to AIM and the capital   

Underlying profit before tax

IPO transaction costs

structure in place pre-admission. 

Shareholder loan note interest

3. EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure, a reconciliation  

is provided in the Financial Review pages 16 to 17.

4. Active customer is a customer registered on our 

Exceptional asset impairment

Other non-recurring items

database who has transacted in the last 12 months.

Statutory profit / (loss) before tax

FY16

FY15

7.5    

(2.7)

(5.6)

(0.3)

(0.1)

(1.2)

5.3

-

(4.6)

(0.5)

(0.1)

0.1

C H A P T E R

1S T R A T E G I C 

R E P O R T

H i t t i n g   t h e   B r i g h t   N o t e s

8    Chair man’s Statement

C H A I R M A N ’ S   S T A T E M E N T

J O U L E S   G R O U P   P L C

INTRODUCTION

This is our f irst Annual Report as a public company and 

This was a signif icant year for the business with 

it is my great pleasure to welcome new shareholders to 

the Company’s admission to the AIM market of the 

Joules. As Chairman for the last three years I have seen 

London Stock Exchange in May 2016 being a notable 

Joules grow and develop into the established and much-

highlight. Joules has an authentic British heritage; a 

loved premium lifestyle brand it is today and I am now 

strong and distinctive brand; an enviable track record; 

even more excited about our future prospects than   

and signif icant growth opportunities ahead. We were 

ever before. 

delighted with the enthusiasm and shareholder support 

shown during our Initial Public Offering (‘IPO’), and we 

look forward to delivering value for all stakeholders over 

the coming years. 

Chairman’s  Statement    9

OUR BUSINESS

FINANCIAL RESULTS & DIVIDEND

The Joules brand is at the heart of our business and 

Group revenue of £131.3 million increased by 12.8% 

encompasses values of ‘time-off’, heritage, countryside, 

compared to the prior period (53 weeks to 31 May 

Britishness, family and fun. These values resonate 

2015: £116.4 million). Against the comparable 52 week 

through all product designs, which are known and loved 

prior period, Group revenue increased by 14.2%. This 

for their distinctive colours, prints, details and quality. 

ref lects strong growth in both the Retail and Wholesale 

These designs successfully span across a broad range 

segments. On a geographic basis, UK sales increased 

of product categories, from Womenswear to Homeware, 

11.6% to £118.1 million and International sales increased 

demonstrating the brand’s relevance to multiple aspects 

24.7% to £13.2 million. International now represents just 

of our customers’ lives. 

over 10% of Group revenue. Underlying PBT grew by 

The growth of the business in recent years has been 

underpinned by signif icant investment that has been 

made in the Group’s infrastructure, including supply 

chain, IT and international sales support off ices. We are 

conf ident that this investment, along with the strength 

and appeal of the Joules brand, provides a strong 

foundation for sustainable, long term growth.

OUR TEAM

The skill, creativity and energy of our people continues 

to be a key factor in driving the business forward and 

expanding the Joules brand. I would like to take this 

opportunity to thank everyone in the Joules team   

across the world for their hard work and dedication 

throug hout what has been such a transformational year 

for the business. 

The success of the business to date has been led by a 

dynamic and highly talented management team who have 

a deep understanding of the Joules customer as well as 

strong commercial and product design expertise. This 

is underpinned by outstanding enthusiasm, energy and 

leadership skills.

With our IPO the leadership team was further 

strengthened with the appointment of two new Non-

Executive Directors to our Board. These were David 

Stead, who has more than 15 years’ experience as a 

director of companies in the UK retail sector, and Jill 

Little, who has vast relevant experience of the retail 

industry including driving international expansion. 

We are already benef iting from their experience and 

knowledge and look forward to their contributions in   

the years to come. 

41.5% to £7.5 million, and Underlying EPS was 6.9 pence 

per share (FY15: 4.8 pence). Statutory PBT was £(1.2)million 

(FY15: £0.1 million), statutory basic (and diluted) EPS are 

-2.0 pence per share (FY15: -0.5 pence per share). The 

Chief Executive’s Strategic Report and Financial Review 

that follow provide a more in-depth analysis of the 

trading performance and f inancial results of the Group.

The Directors intend to pursue a progressive dividend 

policy, subject to the availability of suff icient 

distributable prof its and the need to retain suff icient 

earnings for the future growth of the Group. It is 

currently intended that, in the absence of unforeseen 

circumstances, the f irst dividend following Admission 

will be paid in respect of the f inancial year ending May 

2017 (FY17). 

THE FUTURE

It is too early to assess the specif ic macro economic 

effects of the UK’s decision to leave the European Union, 

though it has created an environment of increased 

uncertainty. I believe that Joules is well placed to 

meet these uncertainties through a combination of the 

strength of its brand and products; its target customer 

demographic; and, the historic investment that has been 

made in infrastructure. The impact on the product cost 

base, resulting from a weaker GBP, is mitigated through 

foreign exchange hedging in place throughout FY17 and 

the f irst half of the subsequent year. 

We have a loyal and growing customer base, a committed 

and enterprising team and a well-invested infrastructure.  

These qualities give us conf idence of successfully 

delivering the Board’s clear strategy for growing the 

Joules brand in the UK and internationally.

NEIL MCCAUSLAND

Chairman

10    Chi ef  Executive’s  St rat egic Re p ort 

C H I E F   E X E C U T I V E ’ S   S T R A T E G I C   R E P O R T

B U S I N E S S   M O D E L

I am pleased to present the Group’s f irst Strategic 

OUR BUSINESS MODEL

Report to shareholders. This is an exciting time for 

the Joules brand as we continue to expand both in 

the UK and internationally, whilst ensuring our focus 

is as resolute as ever on product quality, design and 

delighting our customers. 

THE JOULES BR AND

Joules operates a truly multi-channel business model, 

which is ref lected in the Group’s balanced revenue 

mix by channel. The Joules brand has two key channels 

to market: retail (including stores, e-commerce and 

the country shows and events circuit) and wholesale. 

Other channels include product licensing, which given 

the strength of the Joules brand, is likely to become 

Joules is a premium lifestyle brand with an authentic 

increasingly important over time.

heritage. The brand is distinctive for its values of ‘time-

off’, heritage, countryside, Britishness, family and fun. 

Retail

Our brand and design-led ethos deliver unique product 

designs, which remain central to Joules’ continued 

success, growth and appeal. Key components of our 

designs include unwavering focus on quality, colour and 

surprising details that excite our customers. The brand 

is also known and loved for its exclusive, in-house 

designed proprietary prints, which include f lorals, 

conversationals, ‘‘pops of colour’’ and screen prints.

The Group has a fast growing and diverse store   

portfolio of 97 UK and Republic of Ireland stores 

(including f ive concessions) plus three franchise   

stores. Our stores have a diverse geographic footprint, 

ref lecting the broad appeal of the brand. The Group 

operates a fully transactional and feature rich website,   

www.joules.com, through which Joules branded products 

are sold to customers in the UK and internationally. The 

Group also operates dedicated, local currency and local 

language consumer websites for the US and Germany. 

Wholesale

Joules branded products are sold through selected 

wholesale partners, primarily in the UK, North America 

and Germany, supporting the expansion of the brand. The 

wholesale channel consists primarily of:

• 

“House accounts’’— national multi-channel retailers, 

such as John Lewis and Next Label, which Joules sells 

to and manages directly; and

• 

‘‘Field accounts’’— generally smaller retailers 

including independents managed directly by Joules 

or by Joules’ sales agents and, in the US, via   

a distributor.

 
12    Chi ef  Executive’s S trategic  Rep o rt

C H I E F   E X E C U T I V E ’ S   S T R A T E G I C   R E P O R T

S T R A T E G Y   A N D   K E Y   P E R F O R M A N C E   I N D I C A T O R S

OUR GROWTH STR ATEGY 

We have a clear strategy for the long-term, sustainable development of Joules as a premium lifestyle brand, both in 

the UK and internationally. This strategy is built on the following key pillars, and is continuously underpinned by a 

f irm focus on product quality and design.

1. INCREASING CUSTOMER VALUE  - we intend to continue to grow our customer database, increase the number of 

active customers and develop the value of the average active customer. 

2. UK AND REPUBLIC OF IRELAND (ROI) STORE ROLL-OUT  - as part of our multi-channel approach, there remains 

signif icant further growth potential for the brand in the UK and ROI. We are targeting a net 10 to 12 new stores per 

year in the medium term.

3. INTERNATIONAL EXPANSION - the Joules brand and products resonate well in international markets and the new 

markets provide an opportunity to further leverage the investment in our central creative and commercial teams.   

Our medium term focus is on North America and Germany.

4. PRODUCT EXTENSION - as a premium lifestyle brand, the Joules product offer naturally extends to meet many of 

the lifestyle needs of our customers. Joules has had success extending the product offer within existing categories 

and into new categories and we will continue to expand into new areas that are appropriate for the development of 

the Joules brand.

STRATEGIC PRI ORITIES   

AND DEVELOPMENTS

1 . I NCREA SING CUSTOMER VALUE

• 

• 

• 

Re-launched the Jo ul es. co m  we bsite   with   ric h er  co nt ent  and   

mobile optimisat io n .

Successfully up-weig hted  dig ita l  media   sp e n d  for  new  cu s tom e r acq u is itio n   

Return Address: Joules Ltd, PO BOX 7614, Corby, NN17 9DX
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O F F E R   C O D E :   E G G S

2.  UK  A ND ROI STORE ROLL-OUT 

S E E   T H E   F U L L   C O L L E C T I O N  a t  J O U L E S . C O M

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02/09/2015   15:19

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Opened 10 new st ores d urin g  th e  year  a n d  co nve r t ed  one  f ranch is e  to an  owned  s tore .

Closed five stores, taking advantage of end of lease terms where we believe there is a better location. 

Opened three ‘Re g io na l S ho p p in g  C e ntre’   s to res   -  a new l ocat ion t yp e .

New  store pay ba ck period s co nti n u e  to   be  l e ss  t h an 12  month s.

All, but one, stores open for more than 12 months delivered a positive contribution. 

3. INTERNATIONAL EXPANSION

• 

• 

• 

• 

US  showroom an d sal es of f ice   in  New  Yo rk  re located  an d e nlarg ed. 

Nordstom increased t he ra ng e   of  we ll in gt o n   boot s  a nd  acces so ri e s  s to cked  and  evolved   

from online o nly  to  space in  8 0  s t o re s  fo r   A u t u mn/ Wi nt e r 16 .

Von Maur ex pa n ded ran ge w it hi n  s evera l  of   t he i r  33   de p ar t m e nt  st ores  t o inclu d e   

wom en’s n ig ht wea r and  outer wea r  fo r  A u tu m n/ W inte r  1 6.

Launching kids apparel and accessories in 50 of Dillards’ 330 department stores for Autumn/Winter 16.

4.  PRODUCT EXTENSION

• 

• 

• 

Accessories grew by 27 % i n t he   yea r  a n d  is   now  13%   of   total s al e s . 

Hom eware cate go r y grew  by  33 %  in   th e  year.

Baby Joul e grew by a n  im pressi ve  4 2%   in   th e  year  foll owi ng  an 

increa sed foc us on  this i mp o r ta nt  cat e g o r y. 

Chief  Executive’s St rat egic Rep ort    13

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Our KPIs have been selected based on their link to the successful delivery of our strategy,   

they are monitored by the Board on a regular basis.

OUR FINANCIAL KPI s: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Revenue by channel - delivering balanced growth across   

our core-sales channels

Group gross margin - maintaining overall product level 

profitability whilst developing the different channels to market 

EBITDA margin – how effectively we are leveraging our cost 

base and infrastructure 

Return on Capital employed (‘ROCE’) – how we are managing 

working capital and growth capital investments

W H O L E S A L E

E C O M M E R C E

S T O R E S

FY15 was a   

53 week period.

140

120

100

80

60

40

20

0

31.6

25.8

37.2

30.1

26.9

23.9

39.3

52.4

58.2

FY 14

FY 15

FY 16

R E V E N U E   B Y   C H A N N E L   £ M

55 .0 %

56

55 .5

55

54 .5

54

53 .5

53

52 .5

52

53.3%

53.5%

11

10.5

10

9. 5

9

8.5

8

10.3%

9.5%

9.0%

35

30

25

20

15

10

5

0

31.9%

27.3%

23.9%

FY14

FY15

FY16

FY 14

FY 15

FY 16

FY 14

FY 15

FY 16

G R O U P   G R O S S   M A R G I N   %

U N D E R LY I N G   E B I T D A   M A R G I N   %

R O C E *   %

ACT IVE  CUSTOMER NU MBERS**

FY14

FY15

FY16

529,000

621,000

824,000

NUMBE R OF STORES

TOTAL SELLING SPACE (SQ FT)

FY14

FY15

FY16

80

91

97

FY 14

FY 15

FY 16

84,500

100,000

111,000

I NTERNATIONAL REVENUE % OF GROUP REVENUE

FY14

FY15

FY16

5 . 8 %

9.1%

10.1%

* Return on Capital employed (‘ROCE’) is calculated as Underlying Operating Prof it after Tax divided by Average 

Capital employed (Capital employed def ined as Underlying Net Assets adjusted for excess cash balances) 

** Active customer def ined as a customer who is registered on our database and has transacted within the last 

12 months. Note, FY14 and FY15 restated following improvements in data cleansing.

14    Chi ef  Executive’s S trategic  Rep o rt

C H I E F   E X E C U T I V E ’ S   S T R A T E G I C   R E P O R T

B U S I N E S S   R E V I E W

A YEAR OF EXCELLENT PROGRESS

Joules has continued to make excellent progress over 

the past year, including the signif icant milestone of 

With traff ic from mobile and tablet devices now 

the Group’s admission to the AIM market of the London 

representing over 70% of the total, and with the mobile 

Stock Exchange towards the end of the f inancial year. 

and tablet conversion rate improving by 50 basis points   

The success of our IPO ref lects 27 years of careful 

in the year, the re-launched site has been instrumental   

development of the Joules brand, our unique multi-

in supporting the growth of e-commerce revenues. 

channel approach and our consistent focus on our 

customer. These qualities remained central to our 

performance in FY16 as the Group made further 

progress against its strategic objectives and continued 

to develop and expand as a premium lifestyle brand in 

the core UK market and also internationally.

‘Click & Collect’ continues to prove popular with 

our customers and towards the end of the year we 

commenced the roll-out of ‘Order in Store’ which 

provides customers in store with access to the entire 

range of products across all of our categories. 

STRONG MULTI-CHANNEL RETAIL GROWTH

Retail sales, which includes stores, E-commerce and 

shows, continued to grow impressively by 12.8% during 

the year (on a consistent 52 week basis) as we expanded 

Joules’ retail coverage across the UK and ROI to 97 

stores at the end of the period. This was supported 

by 10 new store openings and the conversion of one 

franchise store during the year. During the year we 

closed f ive stores taking the opportunity of lease breaks 

to exit where we believe we could perform better in a 

different location. We relocated one store, in Harrogate, 

and expanded our space in two others, increasing total 

selling space to 111,000 square feet by the end of   

the year.

FY16 saw us expand into a new store location type with 

three Regional Shopping Centre locations – Milton Keynes, 

Meadowhall and Birmingham Grand Central. These stores, 

which have a larger selling space than average, have proved 

very popular with our customers – both old and new - and 

have served to further develop and strengthen our brand 

as well as deliver attractive financial returns.

Joules is a truly multi-channel brand, with e-commerce 

revenues representing nearly one third of retail revenue. 

E-commerce continued to deliver very strong sales 

growth of 17.3% against the prior year (on a consistent 

52 week basis), this growth was supported by the 

ongoing development of our website functionality   

and the overall customer offer. We re-launched our   

Joules.com e-commerce site in September 2015,   

with improved functionality, richer content and 

optimisation for mobile and tablet devices. 

WHOLESALE EXPANSION IN THE UK AND OVERSEAS

Wholesale sales increased by 18.3% (on a consistent 

52 week basis), ref lecting the growing appeal of the 

Joules brand. Continued expansion in the UK was driven 

primarily through national multi-channel retailers such 

as John Lewis and Next Label as well as through smaller, 

independent specialist partners that have a good f it with 

the Joules brand.

Joules’ products with their unique prints, colour and 

British character continue to resonate strongly with 

customers in international markets, where our focus 

remains on North America and Germany where we are 

building brand awareness. During the year we invested 

further in our infrastructure in the US, opening a new, 

larger trade showroom and sales office in New York. 

Our focused approach, on developing larger wholesale 

accounts, continues to make good progress with increased 

product range listings in Nordstrom and Von Maur for 

Autumn/Winter 16 and the department store Dillards 

launching Childrenswear from Autumn/Winter 16.

The growth of international wholesale (up 48.1% in 

the year) helped drive a 24.7% increase in the Group’s 

total international sales (including international retail). 

Excluding the impact of non-recurring international 

shows, total international revenues were up nearly 36%, 

taking international sales as a proportion of total Group 

sales to 10.1%.

 
Chie f Executive’s  Strategic Re p ort    15

FURTHER DEVELOPMENT AS A LIFESTYLE BR AND

During the year we implemented the f irst phase of our 

Joules delivered growth across every product category 

company wide ERP replacement programme. We are 

during the year, with particularly strong performances 

in the process of migrating our existing ‘Sales & stock 

in the core Womenswear category and the newer 

management’ IT platform to the Microsoft Dynamics A X 

Homeware, Accessories and ‘Baby Joule’ categories. Our 

ERP platform. Phase one has seen the implementation 

licensed products, although relatively small in scale, 

of Microsoft Dynamics A X to support our US wholesale 

continued to perform well. 

business. The programme, which represents a signif icant 

The popularity of the brand across multiple product 

categories highlights the exciting growth potential for 

Joules as it continues to grow as a true lifestyle brand.

CUSTOMER AND MARKETING

Joules has a loyal, fast growing and highly engaged 

customer community. During the year we continued to 

expand our customer database – that now stands at just 

over two million customers - and developed new ways 

to communicate and engage with this community online, 

investment for the Group, is ongoing as we extend 

the platform across our core UK wholesale and retail 

channels with a plan to go live in FY18.

The creativity, skill and commitment of the Joules team 

are key drivers of the brand’s growth and success. We 

continue to invest in skills and people development in 

all areas of the business including our customer facing 

colleagues and team leaders across the business. 

LOOKING AHEAD

in stores, across social media platforms and through 

Group trading to date in the FY17 f inancial year has been 

events. One innovative and successful example of digital 

in line with our expectations and early feedback on our 

customer engagement during the year was our ‘Design 

Spring/Summer 17 ranges from our trade customers has 

Your Own Welly’ App and competition. Customers were 

been positive. 

invited to go online and bring a Joules welly to life by 

creating their own, bespoke bold and bright designs. We 

received more than 45,000 entries to the competition, 

including many new customers, helping to raise brand 

awareness amongst existing and potential customers.

We have a strong brand, a loyal and growing customer 

base, a committed and enterprising team and a   

well-invested infrastructure. These qualities give me 

conf idence for the future and for the delivery against 

our strategic objectives as we grow the Joules brand in 

We were delighted to win ‘Fashion Business of the Year’ 

the UK and internationally. 

(in the £30-100m category) at the 2015 Drapers Awards, 

with the judges acknowledging Joules’ “very impressive 

COLIN PORTER

growth story while demonstrating conf idence in our 

Chief Executive Officer

brand positioning, ethos and strategy”. This award was 

f itting testament to the hard work of our team as well as 

the brand’s strong values. 

PLATFORM FOR LONG TERM GROWTH

The focus of the management team is on the long 

term, sustainable development of the Joules brand, 

as demonstrated by further investments made during 

the year including in our new stores, a strengthened 

e-commerce proposition and the infrastructure to 

support our US wholesale business.

16    Fi nancial Review

F I N A N C I A L   R E V I E W

J O U L E S   G R O U P   P L C

FINANCIAL REVIEW

Sales in International markets, which are predominantly 

Wholesale, increased by 24.7% and now represent 10.1% 

of Group revenues (FY15: 9.1%).

Joules Group plc was admitted to AIM on 26 May 2016 

Retail - Stores

(the ‘IPO’), just prior to the end of the financial period.   

To provide a meaningful comparison to the prior financial 

period and for future reporting periods, the front section 

of this Annual Report reports on both the underlying and 

the statutory results.

PROFIT BEFORE TA X – UNDERLYING

Underlying prof it before tax (‘PBT’) was £7.5 million   

Store revenue at £58.2 million increased by 13.1% on the 

comparable 52 weeks. During the year we opened 10 new 

stores, converted one franchise and closed five stores, 

resulting in an increase in owned store numbers from   

91 to 97. Total store selling space increased by 10.9% to 

111,000 sq. ft. over the period. We had three franchises   

at the end of FY16 (FY15: 4).

for the 52 weeks to 29 May 2016, an increase of 41.5%   

Retail – E-commerce

on the prior period (53 weeks to 31 May 2015).

EARNINGS BEFORE INTEREST, TA X, DEPRECIATION & 

AMORTISATION (‘EBITDA’)

E-commerce revenue at £30.1 million increased by 17.3% 

on the comparable 52 weeks and was 32.1% of total Retail 

revenue (FY15: 30.6%). E-commerce benefited from more 

visitors and higher conversion following the re-launch 

Underlying EBITDA increased by 28.6% to £13.5 million 

of the content rich, mobile optimised website and the 

(FY15: £10.5m). The underlying EBITDA margin increased 

ongoing new customer acquisition activity.

by 1.3 percentage points from 9.0% to 10.3%.

UNDERLYING AND STATUTORY RESULTS

Wholesale revenue at £37.2 million increased by 18.3% on   

During the period there were a number of costs that 

the comparable 52 weeks. Good performances were delivered 

were exceptional or non-recurring in nature. These 

in both the UK and international markets and from both the  

items relate primarily to the IPO and to the capital 

‘house account’ and the ‘field account’ customer bases.

Wholesale

structure that was in place prior to the IPO. To provide 

a meaning ful year-on-year comparison, for historic and 

GROSS MARGIN

future periods, these items have been excluded from 

the underlying results reported in the front section of 

the Annual Report. A reconciliation between Underlying 

and Statutory (GA AP) results is provided below.

REVENUE

Gross margin at 53.5% was 0.2 percentage points higher than 

the prior year. Our commercial and buying activity enabled 

us to offset the impact of the strengthening US Dollar and 

maintain overall intake margins. Increasing international 

Wholesale sales, in particular within the US where we have 

a high mix of lower margin footwear sales and a significant 

Group revenue increased by 12.8% to £131.3 million from 

proportion of our business via a distributor, result in 

£116.4 million in FY15, the prior year being a 53 week 

downward pressure on Group gross margin which has been 

period. Against a comparable 52 weeks, Group revenue 

more than mitigated by the growth of the Retail segment  

increased by 14.2%, with Retail revenue increasing by 

and improved e-commerce distribution costs. 

12.8% and Wholesale revenue increasing by 18.3%. 

52 WEEKS ENDED 29 MAY 2016

53 WEEKS ENDED 31 MAY 2015

£MIL L ION

UNDERLYING

Revenue   

Gross profit 

Admin expenses 

Operating profit 

Net finance costs   

Profit before tax 

Operating profit

Depreciation & Amortisation 

EBITDA

 131.3 

 70.3 

 (62.3) 

 8.0 

 (0.5)

 7.5 

8.0 

 (5.5)

 13.5 

IPO
COSTS

  -

  -

 (2.7) 

 (2.7)

 -   

 (2.7)

(2.7)

 -

 (2.7)

NON -   

NON -   

RECURRING

REPORTED

UNDERLYING

RECURRING

REPO RTED

  -

  -

 131.3 

 70.3 

 116.4 

 62.0 

  -

  -

 116.4 

 62.0 

 (0.4) 

 (65.4) 

 (56.4) 

 (0.6) 

 (57.0) 

 (0.4)

 (5.6)

 (6.0)

(0.4)

 (0.4)

 (0.0)

 4.8 

 (6.0)

 (1.2)

4.8 

 (5.9)

 10.7 

 5.7 

 (0.4)

 5.3 

5.7 

 (4.8)

 10.5 

 (0.6)

 (4.6)

 (5.2)

(0.6)

 (0.5)

 (0.1)

 5.1 

 (5.0)

 0.1 

5.1 

 (5.3)

 10.4 

 
 
Fin ancial Review    17

ADMINISTR ATIVE EXPENSES - UNDERLYING

Underlying administrative expenses increased by 10.5% from 

To facilitate meaning ful comparison of earnings per 

£56.4 million to £62.3 million. Underlying operating expenses 

share the weighted average number of shares in issue 

were 47.4% of revenue (FY15: 48.5%). The Group strengthened 

has been restated on a pro forma basis to ref lect the 

several central functions during the year particularly in 

post-IPO capital structure. The pro forma assumes that 

design, commercial and support and increased investment 

the number of shares in issue post-IPO were in issue 

in new customer acquisition and internal photo-shoot 

throughout. Earnings are adjusted for non-underlying 

capability to support the retail and wholesale channels.

items detailed above and to ref lect the statutory tax rate.

Total rent cost, including service charges, for the period 

was £9.3 million (FY15: £8.5m) with the increase due to new 

£ MILLION

store openings and the relocation of our Shanghai sourcing 

office and expanded New York showroom during the period.

PBT - Underlying

Statutory tax rate

Underlying depreciation and amortisation increased to 

Tax 

£5.5 million (FY15: £4.8m) following the completion of 

Earnings - Underlying

several IT infrastructure projects in the current and prior 

year, including the f irst phase of the Enterprise Resource 

Shares - Pro forma (million)

EPS - Pence

Planning (ERP) programme.

FY 16 

 7.5 

FY15 

 5.3 

20.0%

20.8%

 (1.5)

 6.0 

87.5 

 6.9 

 (1.1)

 4.2 

87.5 

 4.8 

ADMINISTR ATIVE EXPENSES - NON-UNDERLYING

As detailed in the Admission Document, the Board is not 

Non-underlying administrative expenses totalled   

£3.1 million (FY15: £0.6m). This included IPO transaction 

related costs of £2.7 million (FY15: £nil) and   

recommending the payment of a dividend for FY16.

CASH FLOW AND CASH POSITION

non-recurring costs of £0.4 million (FY15: £0.6m).   

Net cash f low from operating activities was £16.9 million 

Non-recurring costs included costs related to the   

(FY15: £6.0m) including a net working capital inf low of 

pre-IPO ownership structure of £0.1 million (FY15: £0.1m) 

£7.1 million due to improved inventory eff iciency and 

and asset impairment of £0.3 million (FY15: £0.5m). 

higher trade payables at the period end.

NET FINANCE COSTS - UNDERLYING 

Underlying net f inance costs of £0.5 million (FY15: £0.4m) 

related to interest and facility charges on the Group’s 

revolving credit facility with Barclays Bank Plc.

NET FINANCE COSTS - NON-UNDERLYING

The Group ended the period with underlying net cash/

(debt) of £3.2 million (FY15: £(6.5)m) an improvement of 

£8.7 million in the period. Gross cash was £9.3 million 

(FY15: £2.1m) and underlying borrowings £6.1 million 

(FY15: £8.6m), which includes borrowings under the 

Group’s revolving credit facility and asset f inance loans. 

Underlying borrowings excludes shareholder loan notes 

Non-underlying net f inance costs totalled £5.6 million 

that were settled during the year as part of the IPO 

(FY15: £4.6m), consisting primarily of interest on 

transaction (FY15: £(42.8)m). 

shareholder loan notes of £4.7 million (FY15: £4.4m)   

and amortisation of the loan note arrangement fee of 

£0.9 million (FY15: £0.4m). The shareholder loan notes 

were converted to equity immediately prior to the IPO 

and the expense will not be ongoing. 

The Group has access to a £25 million revolving credit 

facility provided by Barclays Bank Plc to fund seasonal 

working capital requirements. This facility matures in 

May 2020.

INVENTORY

TA X ATION

The reported tax rate in the current and prior year is impacted 

by the non-underlying items noted above. These included 

a proportion of non-deductible costs and the impact from 

the proportion of the shareholder loan note interest that 

was deemed deductible on finalisation of the Advanced Thin 

Capitalisation Agreement (‘ATCA’) with HMRC during the period.

The Group’s effective tax rate in future years is expected 

to be broadly in line with the statutory rate.

EARNINGS PER SHARE AND DIVIDEND

Inventory at year end was £19.3 million (FY15: £17.7m). 

The higher year-on-year inventory was a result of 

receiving deliveries for Autumn/Winter 16 ranges earlier 

than the prior year. Inventory management and stock 

turn both improved in the year.

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE

Investment in property, plant, equipment and intangible 

assets totalled £7.1 million in FY16 (FY15: £8.8m). Major 

areas of expenditure in the year were new store openings 

and relocations and spend on our core IT infrastructure, 

Statutory basic (and diluted) earnings per share for the 

including the re-launch of our e-commerce platform and 

period are -2.0 pence per share. On an underlying, pro 

the completion of phase one of our ERP implementation. 

forma basis the FY16 basic earnings per share are 6.9 

Phase two of the ERP implementation is ongoing, with a 

pence (FY15: 4.8 pence).

plan to go live in FY18.

 
18    Pri nci pal Ris ks & Uncerta in tie s

P R I N C I P A L   R I S K S   &   U N C E R T A I N T I E S

Set out below are the principal risks and uncertainties 

there may be other risks to which the Group is exposed 

that the Directors consider could impact the business. 

and so the list is not intended to be exhaustive.

The Board continually reviews the potential risks facing 

The Corporate Governance Report includes an 

the Group and the controls in place to mitigate any 

overview of our approach to risk management and 

potential adverse impacts. The Board also recognises 

internal control systems and processes.

that the nature and scope of risks can change and that 

EXTERNAL RISKS

External risks ref lect those risks where we are unable to inf luence the likelihood of the risk arising and 

therefore focus is on minimising the impact should the risk arise.

RISK AND IMPACT  

Economy  

MITIGATING FACTORS 

The majority of the Group’s revenue is generated from 

As a premium lifestyle brand with a geographically disperse 

sales in the UK to UK customers. A deterioration in the 

retail store portfolio, a strong e-commerce channel and 

UK economy may adversely impact consumer conf idence 

long standing wholesale customer accounts, the Directors 

and spending on discretionary items. A reduction in 

consider that the UK business would be less affected by 

consumer expenditure could materially and adversely 

a reduction in consumer expenditure than many other 

affect the Group’s f inancial condition, operations and 

clothing retailers. 

business prospects. 

In addition, the property portfolio has short lease terms, 

The expected exit of the UK from the EU has increased 

providing relative f lexibility to close or relocate stores 

the likelihood and potential impact of this risk.

should it become necessary. 

Competitor Actions 

New competitors or existing clothing retailers or lifestyle 

Joules differentiates from competitors through its strong 

brands may target our segment of the market. Existing 

brand and products that are known for their quality, details, 

competitors may increase their level of discounting or 

colour and prints. Our large customer database allows 

promotions and/or expand their presence in new channels. 

the Group to communicate effectively with customers, 

These actions could adversely impact our sales and profits. 

developing customer engagement and loyalty. 

Foreign Exchange   

The Group purchases the majority of its product stock from 

The Group’s Treasury Policy sets out the parameters and 

overseas and is therefore exposed to foreign currency risk, 

procedures relating to foreign currency hedging. We 

primarily the US Dollar. 

currently seek to hedge a material proportion of forecasted 

Without mitigation, input costs may f luctuate in the short 

US Dollar requirement 12 months ahead through the use of 

term, creating uncertainty as to profits and cash f lows.

forward contracts.

The anticipated exit of the UK from the EU has resulted in a 

devaluation of GBP to the US Dollar and increased volatility.  

This may be sustained or worsen going forward.

The Group’s US wholesale business generates US Dollar 

income which provides a degree of natural hedging.

Regulatory and Political  

New regulations or compliance requirements may be 

The Group has processes in place to monitor and report to 

introduced from time to time. These may have a material 

the Board on new regulations and compliance requirements 

impact on the cost base or operational complexity of the 

that could have an impact on the business. The impact of 

business. Non-compliance with the regulation could result 

any new regulation is evaluated and ref lected in the Group’s 

in financial penalties.

financial forecasts and planning.

The anticipated exit of the UK from the EU has increased 

uncertainty in this area.

 
 
 
Prin cip al Risks & Uncer tain ties    19

INTERNAL RISKS

Internal risks ref lect those where we can inf luence the likelihood of the risk arising and the impact   

if the risk should arise.

RISK AND IMPACT  

Brand and Reputation 

MITIGATING FACTORS 

The strength of our brand and its reputation are very 

Brand and reputation are monitored closely by senior 

important to the success of the Group. Failure to protect 

management and the Board. The Group’s public relations 

and manage this could reduce the confidence and trust 

are actively managed and customer feedback, both direct 

that customers place in the business, which could have a 

and indirect, is carefully monitored. 

detrimental impact on sales, profits and business prospects. 

We carefully consider each new trade customer with whom 

Our brand may be undermined or damaged by our actions 

we do business and monitor on an ongoing basis.

or those of our wholesale partners.

Product Sourcing   

The Group’s products are predominantly manufactured 

The Group has a policy and process for the selection of new 

overseas. Failure to carry out sufficient due diligence, and 

suppliers. This includes a review of compliance with laws 

to act in the event of any negative findings, especially in 

and regulations and that suppliers meet generally accepted 

relation to ethical or quality related issues, could adversely 

standards of good practice. In addition, suppliers are 

impact our brand and reputation.

required to sign up to Joules’ code of conduct. 

The Group operates a programme of ethical audits across 

the product supply base supported by a third party agency. 

Design 

As with all clothing and lifestyle brands there is a risk that 

Joules has a long established in-house creative and design 

our offer will not satisfy the needs of our customers or 

team who have a high level of awareness and understanding 

that we fail to correctly identify trends that are important 

of our target customer segment. A large proportion of our 

to our customer base. These outcomes may result in lower 

product range is anchored in classic products that are 

sales, excess inventories and/or higher markdowns.

evolved season to season. 

Early feedback from our trade customers can allow us 

to further refine our product range ahead of significant 

purchase commitments.

Key Management   

Our performance is linked to the performance of our people 

The Group’s remuneration policy, which includes a long 

and in particular to the leadership of key individuals. The loss 

term incentive scheme and performance-related pay, is 

of a key individual whether at management level or within 

designed to attract and retain key management. The Group 

a specialist skill set could have a detrimental effect on our 

operates learning and development initiatives to increase 

operations and, in some cases, the creative vision for the brand.

the opportunities for internal succession.

ERP System 

We are in the process of implementing a new IT platform, 

The first phase of our implementation went live in November 

Microsoft Dynamics AX, across the Group. With any 

2015, supporting our US wholesale operations. A dedicated 

project of this scale, there is a risk of a poorly managed 

programme team with significant experience of our business 

implementation or take up of new systems, which could 

processes and ERP implementation has been established. The 

result in business disruption.

programme team reports monthly to a steering committee 

comprised of Group senior management.

IT Security and Systems Availability  

Non availability of the Group’s IT systems, including the 

A Business Continuity Plan exists to minimise the impact of a 

website, for a prolonged period could result in business 

loss of key systems and to recover the use of the system and 

disruption, loss of sales and reputational damage.

associated data.

Malicious attacks, data breaches or viruses, could lead to 

A regular assessment of vulnerability to malicious attacks 

business interruption and reputational damage.

is performed and any weaknesses rectified. All Group 

employees are made aware of the Group’s IT security policies 

and we deploy a suite of tools (email filtering, antivirus etc) 

to protect against such events.

Supply Chain 

The disruption to any material element of the Group’s 

The Business Continuity Plan includes an established procedure 

supply chain, in particular the UK central distribution 

in the event of the loss of the UK distribution centre. In addition 

centre, could impact sales and impact on our ability to 

the Group maintains insurance cover at an appropriate level to 

supply our wholesale customers, stores and consumers.

protect against the impact of such an interruption.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
20    So ci al Re spon sibilit y 

S O C I A L   R E S P O N S I B I L I T Y

R E S P O N S I B L Y   J O U L E S

RESPONSIBLY JOULES 

OUR JOULES FAMILY

At Joules, we have always prided ourselves on acting as 

At Joules, we have a family of enthusiastic and creative 

a responsible company in everything that we do. Over 

people who are committed to delivering the best quality, 

the last year we have formalised our activities under four 

value and service for our customers and who live and 

strands of our ‘Responsibly Joules’ framework:

breathe our values every day. We are committed to 

Sourcing with Integrity - partnering with our suppliers 

supporting them and helping them grow and thrive.

to create distinctive products made with care, 

This year we launched several exciting initiatives, 

consideration and respect

including providing all of our people with a paid 

Our Joules Family - creating and nurturing a vibrant 

and supportive team which our employees are proud to 

belong to

Outdoors from Shire to Shore - championing the 

environment from shire to shore

Charitably Joules - actively contributing to our local 

communities and the lives of our customers

SOURCING WITH INTEGRITY

By working closely with all of our suppliers we ensure 

volunteering leave day each year, implementing a Give As 

You Earn (GAYE) scheme and matching funds raised by 

our employees for our Charitably Joules charities. Since 

the end of the f inancial year we launched a Save As You 

Earn (SAYE) scheme, open to all eligible employees,   

to encourage employee share ownership.

We operate a learning and development programme 

across the business with a focus on:

• 

• 

Store managers: team motivation and management, 

customer service and selling skills

Head off ice managers and team leaders: leadership, 

that they not only meet our quality expectations but they 

personal development and team management skills

also understand, meet and embrace our internal values. 

This means that we have ethical standards in place which 

our suppliers comply with; ensuring that their workforce, 

working conditions, material selection and management 

and production processes are not just legally compliant 

but are also fair, responsible and sustainable. 

We manage our supply chain in Asia through our own 

sourcing and quality control team based in Shanghai. 

This off ice sources, manages and implements quality 

assurance measures in respect of all of our suppliers 

in the region with approximately 60 per cent. sourced 

direct from the manufacturer and the remainder through 

a local sourcing agent that has worked with Joules for 

many years. 

New suppliers are evaluated against a range of pre-

def ined criteria including ethical and quality standards 

and are required to sign our code of conduct. Ongoing 

supplier audits are carried out by a third party.

In addition, Joules encourages and supports the technical 

training and professional qualif ications of its employees 

in specif ic functional areas and has a successful and 

established history of graduate recruitment in the 

creative, commercial and f inance areas.

Employee engagement and communications is achieved 

through regular ‘Director brief ings’ to all head off ice 

and warehouse employees, a weekly newsletter and the 

Group intranet. We hold a store manager conference 

twice per year and issue a weekly newsletter for all store 

based employees. These communications aim to keep 

employees up to date on Group initiatives and f inancial 

performance. We encourage employee feedback through 

formal and informal channels.

We are an equal opportunities employer and give full 

and fair consideration to employment applications 

regardless of race, gender and/or disability, having 

regard to an applicant’s aptitudes and abilities. We also 

strive to provide ongoing training, career development 

and promotion opportunities for all employees. In the 

unfortunate event that an employee should become 

disabled we are committed to continuing their 

employment and for arranging appropriate training.

Social  Res pon sibilit y    21

OUTDOORS FROM SHIRE TO SHORE

Introducing our newest partnership - The Prince’s Trust

As a business we are committed to understanding our 

We are supporting The Prince’s Trust’s Enterprise 

impact on the environment and, where we can, taking 

Programme in the Leicestershire area. This programme 

active steps to reducing it. Some examples of recent 

supports unemployed young people to turn their big 

initiatives are:

Reducing energy consumption across our properties - 

we have an ongoing programme to install LED lighting 

across our properties and have completed the head 

off ice and all new and refurbished stores. In addition,   

we recently installed an environmentally friendly 

biomass boiler to heat our distribution centre.   

The installation has been accredited by Ofgem and 

accepted into the Renewable Heat Incentive scheme.

Energy Savings Opportunities Scheme (ESOS) - this year 

we completed the initial audit of energy consumption 

of our buildings, processes and transport as required by 

the EU’s Energy Eff iciency Directive. This allows us to 

identify major areas of energy utilisation and start to 

monitor the impact of initiatives to reduce energy use. 

Environmentally responsible packaging - our carrier 

bags are made from a high grade of plastic that is more 

reusable and are therefore more environmentally friendly 

than most. As a result, our customers in England don’t 

have to pay the 5p carrier bag tax.

ideas into a business reality. From training and mentoring 

support to funding and resources, The Prince’s Trust 

works with the budding entrepreneurs to help them 

establish their own business. We are very excited to 

support this programme both through f inancial support 

and providing hands on expertise. We look forward to 

helping these entrepreneurs realise their dreams.

Building classrooms at Nuzzlets 

Nuzzlets is a fantastic grassroots charity that not only 

provides a loving home for unwanted animals, but also 

provides free access for people with disabilities, special 

needs and life-threatening illnesses to visit the centre 

for animal assisted therapy and education. Through our 

fund-raising support this year, Nuzzlets have been able 

to build two new mobile and woodland classrooms. 

“Thanks to Joules’ support, our new classrooms 
have become a reality and will be a huge asset to 
us. We are very grateful for your ongoing support”

CHARITABLY JOULES

We focus our effort on four charities that we are 

MARY CHAPMAN

Nuzzlets

passionate about and which ref lect our values -   

Engaging our customers with the British Beekeepers 

The Prince’s Trust, British Beekeepers Association, 

Association 

Nuzzlets and Farms for City Children. 

We don’t just support our charity partners through 

f inancial donations. In May, we held events in many of 

our stores across the country, bringing bee keepers into 

the store to meet our customers, demonstrate their 

expertise and to show our customers why bees are so 

vital to the countryside.

The Prince’s Trust

The British Beekeepers 

Designing with Farms for City Children 

Association

During the year we collaborated with Sir Quentin Blake, 

one of Britain’s best loved illustrators, on a unique range 

of childrenswear. A proportion of the proceeds from the 

sale of these products went to Farms for City Children.

Nuzzlets

Farms For City Children

C H A P T E R

2C O R P O R A T E 

G O V E R N A N C E

T i m e   t o   S h i n e

24    Co rpo rate  Go vernanc e  

B O A R D   O F   D I R E C T O R S

J O U L E S   G R O U P   P L C

NEIL MCCAUSLAND 

Non-Executive Chairman

TOM JOULE

Founder & Chief Brand Officer

COLIN PORTER

Chief Executive Officer

Neil joined Joules in 2013. He also chairs Karen 

Tom Joule founded Joules in 1989. Tom learnt his 

Colin joined Joules in 2010 from Crombie, where 

Millen, Create Fertility and Skin Ltd. Neil was the 

trade selling branded country clothing at shows and 

he was Joint Manag ing Director. Prior to this 

Senior Independent Director of the Post Off ice 

events around Britain. The Joules brand was born 

Colin spent over 10 years at House of Fraser, 

Limited for four years until September 2015, 

after Tom’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to create 

becoming Commercial Director on the main 

where he chaired the remuneration committee 

practical, stylish high-quality products to ref lect 

board. Colin has also held a number of senior 

and served on both the audit and nominations 

the colourful personalities of those who love the 

positions within the retail sector including at 

committees. Prior to that he was a non-executive 

outdoors. Between 2010 and 2015, Tom has featured 

Etam, L aura Ashley and Arcadia.

Director of Nuff ield Health. Over the last 15 years 

three times in Drapers 100 Most Inf luential People 

he has chaired a number of companies, including 

in Fashion Retail. In 2015, he was a finalist in the 

six years as chairman of Kurt Geiger.

Fashion Entrepreneur of the Year category at the 

Great British Entrepreneur Awards. In his current 

role, Tom is focused on developing the Joules 

brand, product and creative direction.

MARC DENCH

Chief Financial Officer

DAVID STEAD

JILL LITTLE

Senior Independent Non-Executive Director

Independent Non-Executive Director

Marc joined Joules in 2015 from Walgreens Boots 

David joined the Board in April 2016. David is 

Jill joined the Board in April 2016. Jill is currently the 

Alliance, where he was Chief Financial Off icer of 

currently on the board of Card Factory plc as 

Senior Non-Executive Director of Shaftesbury plc and 

its International Retail & Global Consumer Brands 

an Independent Non-Executive Director and is 

previously chaired their remuneration committee. 

division. Marc has previously held a number 

a member of the Council at the University of 

Jill has spent the majority of her career in the retail 

of senior f inancial and corporate development 

Birmingham. He has over 15 years experience as 

industry, firstly at Simpsons of Piccadilly and then 

positions at Alliance Boots, Homeserve, Experian 

a director of companies in the UK retail sector. 

at the John Lewis Partnership (1975 to 2012). Jill 

and Freeserve plc. Whilst at Freeserve, he was 

David was the CFO of Dunelm Group plc for 12 

became Merchandise Director on the board of John 

involved in the successful IPO process and the 

years from 2003 to 2015. Prior to this, David 

Lewis, moving roles to become the Strategy and 

subsequent merger with Wanadoo. Marc is a 

served as Finance Director for Boots The Chemists 

International Director where she was responsible for 

chartered accountant and has an MBA from 

and Boots Healthcare International between 1991 

developing the long-term strategy and international 

Sauder Business School.

and 2003. David is a chartered accountant, having 

expansion of John Lewis. Thereafter Jill became 

spent the early part of his career with KPMG.

Business Development Director of the John Lewis 

Partnership. Jill is also Chairman of National Trust 

Enterprises Ltd, National Trust Renewable Energy Ltd 

and their advisory Commercial Group. 

G O V E R N A N C E   F R A M E W O R K

J O U L E S   G R O U P   P L C

Corpo rate Go vernan ce    25

CHAIRMAN’S INTRODUCTION

MATTERS RESERVED FOR THE BOARD

I have pleasure in introducing the Joules Group plc Corporate 

Certain matters are reserved for approval by the Board. 

Governance Statement, our first since our admittance to 

These include:

trading on AIM on 26 May 2016. The Board is committed to 

supporting high standards of corporate governance and, 

for this reason, we have recently implemented appropriate 

measures to comply, as far as is practicable, with the April 

2016 UK Corporate Governance Code (the “Code”). In this 

section of the Annual Report we set out our governance 

framework and describe the work we have done to ensure 

good corporate governance throughout Joules Group plc  

and its subsidiaries (‘the Group’).

NEIL MCCAUSLAND 

Non-Executive Chairman

BOARD SIZE AND COMPOSITION

Since admittance, the Board has comprised six Directors: 

a Non-Executive Chairman, two further Non-Executive 

Directors and three Executive Directors. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Strategy and business plans – including annual budget

Acquisitions and disposals of businesses (including 

minority interests)

Share capital and dividends

Board membership and Committees and delegation   

of authority

Remuneration and employment benefits

Corporate statutory reporting 

Appointment of auditors

New debt facilities

•  Major capital and revenue commitments

• 

• 

• 

Corporate governance, policy approval, internal control 

and risk management 

Certain litigation matters in line with the Joules 

litigation reporting policy

Corporate and social responsibilities

BOARD MEETINGS

ROLE OF THE BOARD

The Board has met four times since admittance to AIM. For 

The Board is collectively responsible for the long term 

all Board meetings an agenda is established and a Board 

success of the Group. It provides entrepreneurial 

pack is circulated at least 48 hours ahead of the meeting. As 

leadership, sets Group strategy, upholds the Group’s   

a minimum, the items covered include: 

culture and values, reviews management performance and 

ensures that the Group’s obligations to shareholders are 

• 

Financial performance review

•  Management accounts and KPI’s

understood and met. 

HOW THE BOARD OPERATES

The Executive Directors are responsible for business 

operations and for ensuring that the necessary financial 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Update on governance, finance, legal & risk matters

Updates on significant business initiatives

Proposals on any major items of capital expenditure

Health and Safety

Compliance with banking covenants and cash   

and human resources are in place to carry out the Group’s 

f low forecast

strategic aims. The Non-Executive Directors’ role is to 

provide an independent view of the Group’s business and 

to constructively challenge management and help develop 

proposals on strategy. The Board as a whole review all 

strategic issues and key strategic decisions on a regular 

basis. Control over the performance of the Group is 

maintained through evaluation of financial information; the 

monitoring of performance against key budgetary targets; 

and, by monitoring the return on strategic investments.

The Board receives reports from the Executive Directors 

to enable it to be informed of and supervise the matters 

within their remit. The Board considers at least annually 

the Group’s strategic plan and, on a regular rolling basis, 

the Board receives presentations from management on key 

areas of the Group’s operations. 

26    Co rpo rate  Governance  

G O V E R N A N C E   F R A M E W O R K

C O N T I N U E D

BOARD MEETINGS

The following table shows Directors’ attendance at scheduled Board and Committee meetings since admission:

BOARD 

AUDIT 

REMUNERATION  NOMINATION

NEIL MCCAUSLAND 

TOM JOULE 

COLIN PORTER 

MARC DENCH 

DAVID STEAD 

JILL LITTLE 

4/4 

3/4 

4/4 

4/4 

4/4 

4/4 

1/1 

- 

- 

- 

1/1 

1/1 

2/2 

0/0

- 

- 

- 

2/2 

2/2 

-

-

-

0/0

0/0

BOARD DECISIONS AND ACTIVITY DURING THE YEAR

BOARD EFFECTIVENESS

The Board has a schedule of regular business, financial and 

The skills and experience of the Board are set out in 

operational matters, and each Board Committee that has 

their biographical details on page 24. The experience 

met to date has compiled a schedule of work, to ensure 

and knowledge of each of the Directors g ives them 

that all areas for which the Board has responsibility are 

the ability to constructively challenge strategy and to 

addressed and reviewed during the course of the year. The 

scrutinise performance. 

Chairman, aided by the Company Secretary, is responsible 

for ensuring that the Directors receive accurate and timely 

SEPARATION OF DUTIES

information to enable the Board to discharge its duties. 

The Company Secretary compiles the Board and Committee 

papers which are circulated to Directors at least 48 hours 

prior to meetings. The Company Secretary also ensures 

that any feedback or suggestions for improvement on board 

papers is fed back to management. The Company Secretary 

provides minutes of each meeting and every Director is 

aware of the right to have any concerns minuted and a 

written statement circulated upon resignation.

BOARD COMMITTEES

The Board has delegated specific responsibilities to   

the Audit, Remuneration and Nomination Committees.   

Each Committee has written terms of reference setting   

out its duties, authority and reporting responsibilities,   

with copies available on the Company’s website   

(www.joulesgroup.com) or on request from the Company 

Secretary. The terms of reference of each Committee were 

put in place at the time of the Company’s admission to AIM 

and it is intended that they will be kept under review to 

ensure they remain appropriate and ref lect any changes 

in legislation, regulation or best practice. Each Committee 

There is a clear division of responsibilities between the 

Chairman and the Chief Executive Officer.

The Non-Executive Directors have responsibility for 

determining the remuneration of Executive Directors and 

have a prime role in appointing and, where necessary, 

removing Executive Directors, and in succession planning.

INDUCTION OF NEW DIRECTORS

All the Directors were either directors of the Joules Group 

prior to admission to AIM or were appointed on admission. 

The new Directors took part in an induction process, prior 

to joining the board, during which they undertook store 

and office visits; met with key employees; and received 

presentations from management on topics such as strategy, 

finance and risk. It is intended that, in the future, on joining 

the Board, new directors will undergo a programme which 

will be tailored to the existing knowledge and experience of 

the director concerned. The Chairman will be responsible 

for this process.

TIME COMMITMENTS

comprises Non-Executive Directors of the Company. 

All Directors have been advised of the time required to fulfil 

The Company Secretary is the secretary of the Audit and 

the role prior to appointment and were asked to confirm 

Nomination Committees and the Group Legal Counsel is 

that they could make the required commitment before they 

secretary for the Remuneration Committee. 

were appointed. This requirement is also included in their 

letters of appointment.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Corpo rate Go vernance    27

The Board is satisfied that the Chairman and each of the 

RISK MANAGEMENT AND INTERNAL CONTROLS

Non-Executive Directors is able to devote sufficient time to 

the Company’s business. There has been no change in the 

Chairman’s other time commitments since his appointment. 

EVALUATION

The Board has ultimate responsibility for the Group’s 

system of internal control and for reviewing its 

effectiveness. However, any such system of internal control 

can provide only reasonable, but not absolute, assurance 

against material misstatement or loss. The Board considers 

The Board has not conducted a formal board evaluation 

that the internal controls in place are appropriate for the 

since admission to AIM as it is too early in the Board’s 

size, complexity and risk profile of the Group. The principal 

operation to be meaningful. It is the Board’s intention that 

elements of the Group’s internal control systems include:

the Chairman will meet regularly with the Non-Executive 

Directors without the Executive Directors being present. 

The Senior Independent Non-Executive Director will also 

meet with his fellow Non-Executive Director, at least 

annually, to appraise the Chairman’s performance and on 

such other occasions as are deemed appropriate.

DEVELOPMENT

• 

• 

Day to day management of the activities of the Group 

by the Executive Directors

A detailed annual budget is prepared including an 

integrated profit and loss, balance sheet and cash f low. 

The budget is approved by the Board

•  Monthly reporting of performance against the budget 

is prepared and reviewed by the Board

• 

A schedule of delegated authority is maintained which 

The Company Secretary ensures that all Directors are kept 

defines levels of approval authority over such items as 

abreast of changes in relevant legislation and regulations, 

capital expenditure, commercial contracts, litigation 

with the assistance of the Group’s advisers where 

and treasury

appropriate. Executive Directors are subject to the Group’s 

•  Maintenance of a risk register which is reviewed at 

performance development review process through which 

least annually by the Board 

their performance against objectives is reviewed and their 

personal and professional development needs considered. 

The Group continues to review its system of internal 

control to ensure compliance with best practice, whilst also 

having regard to its size and the resources available.

EXTERNAL APPOINTMENTS

In the appropriate circumstances, the Board may authorise 

DIVERSITY

Executive Directors to take non-executive positions in 

other companies and organisations provided the time 

commitment does not conf lict with the Director’s duties to 

the Company. The appointment to such positions is subject 

to Board approval. 

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

At each meeting the Board considers Directors’ conflicts of 

interest. The Company’s Articles of Association (‘Articles’) 

provide for the Board to authorise any actual or potential 

conflicts of interest.

INDEPENDENT PROFESSIONAL ADVICE

The Board does not have a formal board diversity policy but 

plans to review this during the course of the next year. 

RELATIONS WITH SHAREHOLDERS

The Group intends to maintain communication with 

institutional shareholders through individual meetings 

with Executive Directors, particularly following publication 

of the Group’s interim and full year preliminary results. 

Private shareholders are encouraged to attend the Annual 

General Meeting at which the Group’s activities will be 

considered and questions answered. General information 

about the Group is also available on the Group’s website: 

www.joulesgroup.com. This includes an overview of 

Directors have access to independent professional advice 

activities of the Group and details of all recent Group 

at the Company’s expense. In addition, they have access to 

announcements. The Non-Executive Directors are available 

the advice and services of the Company Secretary who is 

to discuss any matters stakeholders might wish to raise, 

responsible for advice on corporate governance matters to 

and the Chairman and Non-Executive Directors will attend 

the Board. 

meetings with investors and analysts as required. Investor 

relations activity and a review of the share register are 

DIRECTORS’ AND OFFICERS’ LIABILITY INSURANCE

standing items on the Board’s agenda. 

The Company has purchased directors’ and officers’ 

liability insurance during the year as allowed by the 

Company’s Articles.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (‘AGM’)

The Company’s AGM will take place on 26 October 2016. 

The Annual Report and Accounts and Notice of the AGM will 

ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

be sent to shareholders at least 20 working days prior to 

In accordance with the Company’s Articles all Directors  

will offer themselves for election at each AGM.

this date.

AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT

J O U L E S   G R O U P   P L C

Audit  Comm itt ee  Report    29

On behalf of the Board, I am pleased to present the Audit 

services by the external auditor. The breakdown of fees 

Committee report for the 52 weeks ended 29 May 2016.

between audit and non-audit services is provided in note 5 of 

The Audit Committee has responsibility for, amongst other 

things, the monitoring of the financial integrity of the 

financial statements of the Group and the involvement of 

the Group’s auditors in that process, together with providing 

oversight and advice to the Board in relation to current 

and potential future risk exposures of the Group, reviewing 

and approving various formal reporting requirements and 

promoting a risk awareness culture within the Group. The 

Audit Committee also provides advice on whether the annual 

the Group’s financial statements. The non-audit fees related to 

tax advisory, Remuneration Committee advice and Reporting 

Accountant work in relation to the Company’s admission 

to AIM. The Audit Committee also assesses the auditor’s 

performance. Having reviewed the auditor’s independence and 

performance, the Audit Committee recommends that Deloitte 

LLP be re-appointed as the Company’s auditor at the next AGM.

AUDIT PROCESS

report and accounts, taken as a whole, is fair, balanced and 

The auditor prepares an audit plan that sets out the scope 

understandable and provides the information necessary 

of the audit, areas to be targeted and audit timetable for its 

for shareholders to assess the Company’s position and 

review of the full year financial statements. In future years 

performance, business model and strategy.

this plan will be reviewed and agreed in advance by the Audit 

MEMBERS OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE

presented its findings to the Audit Committee for discussion. 

Committee. Following the completion of its work, the auditor 

The Committee consists of three Non-Executive Directors: 

David Stead (Chair), Neil McCausland and Jill Little. The 

INTERNAL AUDIT

Auditor (Deloitte LLP), the Chief Executive Officer and 

At present the Group does not have an internal audit function. 

Chief Financial Officer also attend Committee meetings by 

In view of the size and nature of the Group’s business, the 

invitation. The Committee has met once since the Group’s 

Committee believes that management is able to derive assurance 

admission to AIM.

The Board is satisfied that I, as Chairman of the Committee, 

have recent and relevant financial experience. I am a 

chartered accountant and I have served as Finance Director 

in a number of companies including Dunelm Group plc. 

as to the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls and 

risk management procedures without a formal internal audit 

function. This will be kept under review as the business evolves. 

RISK MANAGEMENT AND INTERNAL CONTROLS

I report formally to the Board, on all issues discussed 

The Group has established a framework of risk management 

by the Audit Committee and I present the Committee’s 

and internal control systems, policies and procedures. 

recommendations.

The Committee also takes time to meet with the external 

auditors without any Executive Directors or senior 

management present. 

DUTIES

The Audit Committee is responsible for reviewing the risk 

management and internal control framework and ensuring 

that it operates effectively. The Committee has reviewed 

the framework and is satisfied that the internal control 

systems in place are currently operating effectively.

The duties of the Audit Committee are set out in its Terms 

of Reference, which are available on the Group’s website 

(www.joulesgroup.com) and are also available on request 

from the Company Secretary. 

The Committee meets a minimum of twice per year.

WHISTLEBLOWING

The Group has in place a whistleblowing policy which 

sets out the formal process by which an employee of the 

Group may, in confidence, raise concerns about possible 

improprieties in financial reporting or other matters. 

Whistleblowing is a standing item on the Committee’s 

The main items of business considered by the Audit 

agenda, and updates are provided at each meeting. During 

Committee to date have included:

the year, there were no incidents for consideration. 

Review of the financial statements and Annual Report

Consideration of the external audit report and 

GOING CONCERN

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

management representation letter

Going concern review

Review of the risk management and internal control 

systems

Review the need for the internal audit function

Review of whistleblowing reports

ROLE OF THE EXTERNAL AUDITOR

The Audit Committee monitors the relationship with 

the external auditor, Deloitte LLP, to ensure that auditor 

independence and objectivity are maintained. As part of its 

review the Committee monitors the provision of non-audit 

The Directors have prepared a detailed forecast with a 

supporting business plan for the foreseeable future. The 

forecast indicates that the Group will remain in compliance 

with covenants throughout the forecast period. As such, the 

Directors have a reasonable expectation that the Company 

and the Group has adequate resources to continue in 

operational existence for the foreseeable future. For this 

reason, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in 

preparing financial statements. 

DAVID STEAD

Audit Committee Chairman

30    Nomination Committe e Rep ort    

N O M I N A T I O N   C O M M I T T E E   R E P O R T

J O U L E S   G R O U P   P L C

On behalf of the board I am pleased to present the 

The Committee is scheduled to meet once a year but it   

Nomination Committee Report for the 52 weeks ended 29 

will meet more frequently if required. 

May 2016 (FY16).

MEMBERS OF THE NOMINATION COMMITTEE

The Nomination Committee consists of three   

Non-Executive Directors; Neil McCausland (Chair),   

David Stead and Jill Little.

DUTIES

In carrying out its duties, the Nomination Committee is 

primarily responsible for:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Identifying and nominating candidates to fill Board 

vacancies

Evaluating the structure and composition of the board 

with regard to the balance of skills, knowledge and 

experience and making recommendations accordingly

Drafting the job descriptions of all Board members

Reviewing the time requirements of Non-Executive 

Directors

Giving full consideration to succession planning

Reviewing the leadership of the Group

The Committee reports to the Board on how it has 

discharged its responsibilities. The Committee’s written 

Terms of Reference are available on the Group’s website 

(www.joulesgroup.com).

ACTIVITY DURING THE YEAR

The Committee has not met since admission to AIM but 

intends to do so before the end of the financial year ending 

May 2017 when it will agree a schedule of work for the 

year which will include considering long-term succession 

planning at the senior management level. It will also review 

its terms of reference and consider the management 

framework and governance structure currently in place.

NEIL MCCAUSLAND

Chairman

Nomination Committee

Dire ct ors’  Re mun erat ion Rep or t    31

D I R E C T O R S ’   R E M U N E R A T I O N  R E P O R T

J O U L E S   G R O U P   P L C

On behalf of the Board I am pleased to present the 

of joining the Group in 2015 and that he has not had the 

Directors’ Remuneration Report for the 52 weeks ended 

opportunity to build a significant shareholding in the Group 

29 May 2016 (FY16). Although not subject to the reporting 

through participation in the pre-IPO equity arrangements. 

regulations of fully listed companies in the UK, the 

Delivering these awards in shares provides alignment with 

Remuneration Committee has taken account of these 

the interest of shareholders.

regulations in the preparation of the FY16 Directors’ 

Remuneration Report as a matter of best practice. 

Therefore this report is presented as:

• 

A Directors’ Remuneration Policy Report – setting 

out the parameters within which the remuneration 

arrangements for Directors operate; and

• 

An Annual Report on Remuneration – setting out the 

remuneration earned by Directors in respect of FY16 

and how we intend to apply the policy for FY17.

REMUNERATION FOR THE YEAR COMMENCING 30 MAY 2016

A summary of the proposed application of our remuneration 

policy for FY17 is set out below:

•  With effect from Admission our Executive Directors’ 

base salaries were set at £345,000 for C N Porter, 

£335,000 for T S L Joule and £220,000 for M S Dench.   

It is intended that base salaries will be reviewed 

annually in December, at the same time as the pay 

review for the wider workforce.

OUR APPROACH TO REMUNERATION – KEY PRINCIPLES

• 

The maximum annual bonus opportunity for FY17 will 

In anticipation of admission to AIM (‘the IPO’), the Group 

undertook a review of its remuneration policy for Directors 

to ensure that it is appropriate for a listed company. Our 

policy on executive remuneration is designed to:-

• 

Include a competitive mix of base salary and short and 

long term incentives, with an appropriate proportion 

of the package determined by stretching targets linked 

to the Group’s performance;

• 

Promote the long-term success of the Group,   

in line with our strategy and focus on profitability   

and growth; and

• 

Provide appropriate alignment between the interests 

of shareholders and executives. Alignment is further 

be 100% of salary for C N Porter and T S L Joule and 

150% of salary for M S Dench. The annual bonus is 

subject to the achievement of stretching profit before 

tax (‘PBT’) performance targets. 

• 

The first awards under the Long Term Incentive Plan 

(“LTIP”) that was adopted on Admission were granted 

on 6 July 2016. The maximum LTIP opportunity for C 

N Porter and T S L Joule was 100% of salary and 150% 

of salary for M S Dench. These awards are subject to 

stretching EPS targets.

The Committee will continue to monitor the remuneration 

policy to ensure it remains aligned to the business strategy 

and the delivery of shareholder value.

enhanced through shareholding guidelines and the 

For the avoidance of doubt, the remuneration policy is not 

deferral of a proportion of the annual bonus as shares.

being put to the vote at the upcoming AGM.

IPO ADMISSION AWARDS AND DEFERRED SHARE BONUS 

AWARDED IN RESPECT OF FY16 

The following awards have been granted to M S Dench, in 

respect of FY16 to recognise his contribution to the Group 

since he joined the business in 2015 and in the lead up to 

the IPO.

• 

An option over 312,500 shares with an exercise price of 

£1.60 per share (equal to the Admission price). The face 

value of the award at grant was £500,000. This award 

will vest on the second anniversary of the date of grant 

– subject to continued employment; and

• 

A bonus of £220,000 that is deferred into shares   

(vesting after a three year deferral period). 

The Committee is also mindful that M S Dench forfeited 

incentive awards in his previous employer as a consequence 

JILL LITTLE

Chairman 

Remuneration Committee    

The following section sets out our Directors’ Remuneration 

Policy (the “Policy”). 

The aim of the Policy is to align the interests of Executive 

Directors with the Group’s strategic vision and the long-

term creation of shareholder value. The Policy is intended 

to remunerate Executive Directors competitively and 

appropriately for effective delivery and allows them to share 

in this success and the value delivered to shareholders. 

 
 
 
32    Di recto rs’ Rem unerat ion Report    

D I R E C T O R S ’   R E M U N E R A T I O N  R E P O R T  C O N T I N U E D

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION POLICY

The table below sets out the elements of Executive Directors’ compensation and how each element operates, 
as well as the maximum opportunity of each element and any applicable performance measures.

Fixed Remuneration

ELEMENT, PURPOSE 

&  STRAT EGIC LINK

OPERATION

MAX IMUM  OPPOR TU NI TY

BASIC SALARY
To provide a 
competitive base 
salary for the 
market in which the 
Group operates to 
attract and retain 
Executive Directors 
of a suitable calibre.

BENEFITS
To provide market 
competitive benef its 
as part of the total 
remuneration 
package.

RETIREMENT 
BENEFITS
To provide an 
appropriate level of 
retirement benef it 
(or cash allowance 
equivalent).

Variable Remuneration

ELEMENT, PURPOSE 

& STRATEGIC LIN K

ANNUAL BONUS
Rewards performance 
against targets 
which support the 
strategic direction of 
the Group. Deferral 
provides a retention 
element through 
share ownership 
and direct alignment 
to shareholders’ 
interests.

LONG-TERM 
INCENTIVE (‘LTIP’) 
To create alignment 
between the interests 
of Executive Directors 
and shareholders 
through the delivery 
of performance  
based awards in 
Group shares

Usually reviewed annually taking 

account of:
• 
• 

Group performance; 
Role, experience and individual 
performance;
Competitive salary levels and 
market forces;
Pay and conditions elsewhere in 
the Group.

• 

• 

Executive Directors currently receive 
private medical insurance, company car 
or allowance, staff discounts and the 
right to participate in the Save As You 
Earn (SAYE) scheme. Other benefits   
may be provided based on individual 
circumstances. For example, relocation 
or travel expenses.

Executive Directors are eligible to 
participate in the Group defined 
contribution pension plan. In appropriate 
circumstances (e.g. if contributions exceed 
the annual or lifetime pension allowance 
in the UK), Executive Directors may be 
permitted to take the benefit as additional 
salary instead of pension contributions.

Increases will normally be in line with the range of 
salary increases awarded (in percentage terms) to other 
Group employees. Increases above this level may be 
awarded to take account of individual circumstances, 
such as:
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Promotion;
Change in scope or increase in responsibilities;
An individual’s development or performance in role; 
Alignment with the market over time;
A change in the size or complexity of the business.

Whilst the Committee has not set a maximum level 
of benefits that Executive Directors may receive the 
value of benefits is set at a level which the Committee 
considers appropriate, taking into account market 
practice and individual circumstances.

The contribution level for FY17 is set at 5%   
of salary (there is an overall limit of up to 10%   
of salary).

OPERATION

MAX IMUM  OPPOR TU NI TY  A ND  PER FOR MAN C E  ME TR ICS

Awards are based on performance (typically 
measured over one year). Pay-out levels are 
determined by the Committee after the year 
end. The Committee has discretion to amend 
pay-outs should any formulaic output not 
reflect their assessment of performance. A 
proportion (normally 50%) of any bonus is 
paid in cash with the balance paid in the form 
of shares (subject to a de-minimis amount 
of £10,000) usually deferred for three years. 
Awards may include dividend equivalents 
earned between grant and vesting date.

The annual bonus opportunity is a maximum of 150% of 
base salary. For FY17 the maximum bonus opportunity 
for C N Porter and T S L Joule is 100% of salary and 
150% for M S Dench. 
Performance measure: Targets are set annually and 
aligned with key financial, strategic and/or individual 
targets with the weightings between these measures 
determined by the Committee each year considering the 
Group’s priorities at the time. 
FY17 bonus is based on a PBT target (with 50% of the 
maximum being delivered for on-target performance). 

Awards can be made over conditional 
shares or nil cost options (or cash 
equivalent). Vesting is subject to the 
achievement of specified performance 
conditions normally over three years. 
Awards may include dividend equivalents 
earned between grant and vesting date.
Awards may be structured as Qualifying 
LTIP awards comprising of a HMRC tax-
qualifying option and an LTIP award, with 
the vesting of the LTIP award scaled back 
to take account of any gain made on the 
exercise of the tax-qualifying option.

The maximum LTIP opportunity is 150% of base salary. For 
FY17 the maximum LTIP award for C N Porter and T S L Joule 
is 100% of salary and 150% of salary for M S Dench. Where an 
award is structured as a Qualifying LTIP, the shares subject 
to the tax-qualifying option element are excluded for the 
purposes of this limit, reflecting the scale back. 
Performance measure: Set to reflect longer term strategy 
and business performance. Performance measures and their 
weighting are reviewed annually to maintain appropriateness 
and relevance. For threshold levels of performance 25% of 
the award will vest rising to 100% for maximum performance. 
Below threshold the award will not vest. The FY17 LTIP 
awards are subject to EPS targets.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dire ct ors’  Re mun erat ion Rep ort    33

Information supporting the policy table

EXPLANATION OF PERFORMANCE MEASURES CHOSEN

SHAREHOLDING GUIDELINES

Performance measures for the annual bonus and long-term 
incentive are selected that reflect the Group’s strategy. 
Stretching performance targets are set each year by the 
Committee, taking into account a number of different factors.

For FY17, the annual bonus is based on PBT. Stretch targets 
for the maximum awards under the bonus are set against 
outperformance of internal company forecasts.   
The performance measure for the 2016/17 LTIP grant is 
adjusted diluted Earnings Per Share (EPS). The Committee 
considers EPS to be the key measure of sustainable 
business performance.

The Committee retains the discretion to adjust or set 
different performance measures or targets where it 
considers it appropriate to do so (for example, to ref lect 
a change in strategy, a material acquisition and/or a 
divestment of a Group business or change in prevailing 
market conditions and to assess performance on a fair and 
consistent basis from year to year). Awards and options may 
be adjusted in the event of a variation of share capital in 
accordance with the rules of the LTIP.

APPLICATION OF MALUS AND CLAWBACK

For up to three years following the payment of an annual 
bonus award (and two years after the vesting of an LTIP 
award), the Committee may require the repayment of 
all or some of the award if there is corporate failure, a 
material error or misstatement of the financial results, 
gross misconduct or if information comes to light which, 
had it been known, would have affected a decision as to the 
extent to which an award would have vested. 
The Committee also has the right to reduce, cancel or 
impose further restrictions on unvested LTIP and deferred 
bonus shares in similar circumstances (including material 
failure of risk management).

To promote further alignment to shareholders interests 
and share ownership, each Executive Director is required 
to build and maintain a shareholding equal to two times the 
value of their annual base salary. Until this guideline is met 
Executive Directors will be required to retain half of any 
shares which vest under the deferred bonus or LTIP (after 
sales to cover tax).

LEGACY REMUNERATION

The Committee has the right to settle remuneration 
arrangements that were put in place prior to this Policy being 
created and in respect of remuneration awarded to individuals 
prior to becoming an Executive Director (and which was not 
awarded in anticipation of becoming an Executive Director).

APPROACH TO RECRUITMENT REMUNERATION

The Policy aims to facilitate the appointment of individuals 
of sufficient calibre to lead the business and execute the 
strategy effectively for the benefit of shareholders. When 
appointing a new Executive Director the Committee seeks 
to ensure that arrangements are in the best interests of 
the Company and not pay more than is appropriate. The 
Committee will take into consideration relevant factors, 
which may include the calibre of the individual, their existing 
remuneration package, and their specific circumstance, 
including the jurisdiction from which they are recruited.

The Committee will typically seek to align the remuneration 
package with the Group’s Remuneration Policy. The Committee 
may make payments or awards to recognise or ‘buy-out’ 
remuneration packages forfeited on leaving a previous 
employer. The Committee’s intention is that such awards would 
be made on a ‘like-for-like’ basis as those forfeited. 

The remuneration package for a newly appointed Chairman 
or Non-Executive Director will normally be in line with 
the structure set out in the Non-Executive Directors’ 
Remuneration Policy.

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION POLICY

The Remuneration Policy for the Chairman and Non-Executive Directors is to pay fees necessary to attract the individual 
of the calibre required, taking into consideration the size and complexity of the business and the time commitment of the 
role, without paying more than is necessary. Details are set out in the table below:

APPROACH TO 

SETTING FEES

BASIS OF FEES

OTHER

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

The fees of the Non-Executive Directors are agreed by the Chairman and CEO and the fees for 

the Chairman are determined by the Board as a whole.

Fees are set taking into account the level of responsibility, relevant experience and specialist 

knowledge of each Non-Executive Director and fees at companies of a similar size and 

complexity.

Non-Executive Directors are paid a basic fee for membership of the Board with additional fees 

being paid for chairmanship of Board Committees.

Additional fees may also be paid for other Board responsibilities or roles. 

Fees are normally paid in cash.

Non-Executive Directors may be eligible to receive benefits such as travel and other expenses.

Neither the Chairman nor any of the Non-Executive Directors are eligible to participate in any 

of the Group’s incentive arrangements.

34    Di recto rs’ Rem unerat ion Report    

D I R E C T O R S ’   R E M U N E R A T I O N  R E P O R T  C O N T I N U E D

SERVICE CONTRACTS

PAYMENTS FOR LOSS OF OFFICE

Each of the Executive Directors have service contracts 
with the Group. The notice period of Executive Directors’ 
service will not exceed 12 months. All Non-Executive 
Directors have initial fixed term agreements with the Group 
for no more than three years. 

Payments for loss of office will be in line with the 
provisions of the Executive Directors’ service contracts and 
the rules of the share plans (as set out in the IPO Admission 
document). Where a buy-out award is made then the leaver 
provisions would be determined at the time of the award. 

Details of the Directors’ service contracts, are set out here:

NAM E 

COMMENCEMENT

NOTICE PERIOD

T S Joule          

20 May 2016

C N Porter       

20 May 2016

M S Dench       

20 May 2016

N W McCausland 

20 May 2016

J C Little 

D A Stead 

20 May 2016

20 May 2016

12 months

12 months

6 months

1 month

1 month

1 month

CONSULTATION WITH SHAREHOLDERS

The Committee will consider shareholder feedback received 
on remuneration matters including issues raised at the AGM 
as well as any additional comments received during any other 
meeting with shareholders. The Committee will seek to engage 
directly with major shareholders and their representative 
bodies should any material changes be made to the Policy.

Unaudited Annual Report on Remuneration

SINGLE TOTAL FIGURE OF REMUNERATION

In appropriate circumstances, payments may also be made 
in respect of accrued holiday, outplacement, legal fees 
and under the terms of the SAYE plan. The Committee 
reserves the right to make additional payments where such 
payments are made in good faith in discharge of an existing 
legal obligation (or by way of damages for breach of such 
an obligation) or by way of settlement or compromise or 
any claim arising in connection with the termination of 
Director’s office or employment.

Where the Committee retains discretion it will be used to 
provide f lexibility in certain situations, taking into account 
the particular circumstances of the Director’s departure and 
performance. There is no entitlement to any compensation 
in the event of Non-Executive Directors’ contracts not being 
renewed or the agreement terminating earlier.

The tables below detail the total remuneration earned by each Director in respect of FY16.   

As Joules was admitted to AIM on 26 May 2016, there is no disclosure in this report for prior periods.

SALARIES
/FEES
£000

TAXABLE 
BENEFITS
£000

PENSION
£000

TOTAL CASH  
COMPENSATION 
£000

ADMISSION
 AWARD & DEFERRED 
BONUS* £ 000

TOTAL
REMUNERATION
£000

FY1 6

EXCEC UT IVE DI RECTORS

T S L Joule 

C N Porter 

M S Dench 

290.1

287.3

128.3

NON -E XCECUT I VE  DIR ECTORS

N W McCausland 

J C Little** 

D A Stead** 

Total 

40.0

7.1

7.8

760.5

35.3

20.4

5.1

-

-

-

14.5

14.4

6.4

-

-

-

60.8

35.3

339.9

322.1

139.8

40.0

7.1

7.8

856.6

-

-

288.2

-

-

-

339.9

322.1

428.0

40.0

7.1

7.8

*As set out above to recognise his 

contribution to the Group since 

he joined in 2015 and in the lead 

up to the IPO, M S Dench was 

granted (i) an option over 312,500 

shares with an exercise price 

of £1.60 per share on Admission 

(the face value of this award at 

grant was £500,000 and the fair 

value of the award included in the 

table £68,231); and (ii) a deferred 

share bonus with a face value at 

grant of £220,000. There were no 

other incentive awards vesting in 

respect of FY16.

288.2

1,144.8

**Jill Little and David Stead were 

appointed as Non-Executive 

Directors on 20 May 2016.

BASE SALARIES

ANNUAL BONUS

The base salaries for the Executive Directors will normally 
be reviewed with effect from December. The salaries 
applicable from Admission are shown below:

EXC ECU TIV E D IR ECTORS

BASE SALARY AT ADMISSION

T S L Joule 

C N Porter 

M S Dench 

£335,000

£345,000

£220,000

TAXABLE BENEFITS

Taxable benefits for the Executive Directors included   
a company car or allowance, private fuel and private   
medical insurance.

Other than the deferred share bonus, described above, 
there was no annual bonus paid in respect of FY16.

For FY17 the annual bonus opportunity for the Executive 
Directors will be 100% of salary (and 150% of salary for 
M S Dench) subject to the achievement of stretching PBT 
performance targets, with payment made 50% in cash and 
50% deferred into shares (vesting after a further three 
years). The Committee considers PBT to be the key short-
term financial measure. The actual targets are not disclosed 
due to commercial confidentiality reasons but these will be 
disclosed when we report the performance out-turn in the 
FY17 Directors’ Remuneration Report.

         
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dire ct ors’ Rem uneration  Repor t    35

LONG-TERM INCENTIVES

Other than the IPO Admission award described above, there 
were no long-term incentive awards granted or vesting 
during FY16. For FY17, the Committee granted LTIP awards 
as set out in the table below. 

STATEMENT OF DIRECTORS’ SHAREHOLDING AND SHARE 
INTERESTS

The interests of the Directors and their immediate families 
in the Group’s ordinary shares as at 29 May 2016 were as 
follows.

SHARES

T S L Joule 

C N Porter 

M S Dench 

DATE OF  
GRANT

% OF  
SALARY

NUMBER OF  
SHARES

6 July 2016 

6 July 2016 

6 July 2016 

100% 

100% 

150% 

194,767

200,581

191,860

C N Porter and M S Dench also received tax qualifying 
options of up to a maximum of £30,000, which were 
granted under the Tax Qualifying LTIP, and subject to the 
same performance conditions as the LTIP award. The tax 
qualifying options have an exercise price of £1.72 per share 
(being the market value on the date of grant). The vesting 
of the LTIP award will be scaled back to take account of any 
gain made under the tax qualifying option.

Vesting of the award will be based upon the amount of 
the adjusted diluted Earnings Per Share (EPS) delivered 
in the final Financial Year of the three year performance 
period (FY19). Below the threshold vesting target of 11.5p, 
none of this component of the award will vest. 25% of this 
component will vest if adjusted diluted EPS is 11.5p, with 
100% vesting at 14p, and vesting determined on a straight-
line basis between these figures.

EPS is the most suitable performance measure for the 
Group supporting a focus on profitability and growth,   
and has therefore been chosen as the LTIP metric.

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FEES

Details of Non-Executive Directors’ fees for FY17 are 
set out below:

• 
• 

• 

Chairman’s fee: £75,000
Non-Executive Director fee: £50,000 for D A Stead and 
£45,000 for J C Little
Additional fee for chair of a Board Committee: £5,000 

PAYMENTS MADE TO FORMER DIRECTORS DURING   
THE YEAR

No payments were made in the year to any former Director 
of the Group.

PAYMENTS FOR LOSS OF OFFICE MADE DURING THE YEAR

No payments for loss of office were made in the year to any 
Director of the Group.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS

T S L Joule 

C N Porter 

M S Dench 

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS 

N W McCausland 

J C Little 

D A Stead 

29 MAY 2016 
NUMBER

28,147,210

2,129,142 

62,500

625,375

15,625

31,250

The interests of the Directors and their immediate families 
in the Group’s ordinary shares did not change between 29 
May 2016 and the date these accounts were signed on 5 
September 2016.

REMUNERATION COMMITTEE 

The members of the Committee are Jill Little (chair),   
Neil McCausland and David Stead. The Group’s General 
Counsel attends the meeting as secretary to the Committee.  
The Committee meets at least once a year and has 
responsibility for: 

•  Maintaining the remuneration policy;
• 

Reviewing and determining the remuneration packages 
of the Executive Directors;

•  Monitoring the level and structure of the remuneration 

• 

of Senior Management; and
Production of the annual report on Directors’ 
remuneration.

The Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer 
occasionally attend meetings and provide information and 
support as requested. Neither Executive Director is present 
when his remuneration package is considered.

The duties of the Remuneration Committee are set out in 
its Terms of Reference, which are available on the Group’s 
website (www.joulesgroup.com) and are also available on 
request from the Company Secretary.

This report was approved by the Board on 25 August 2016 

and signed on its behalf by:

JILL LITTLE

Chairman 

Remuneration Committee

 
 
36    Di recto rs’ Report 

D I R E C T O R S ’   R E P O R T

J O U L E S   G R O U P   P L C

The Directors present their Annual Report on the affairs 

of the Group, together with the f inancial statements and 

Auditors’ Report, for the 52 weeks ended 29 May 2016. 

The Governance Framework Section on pages 25 to 27 

TOM JOULE 

also forms part of this Directors’ Report. 

DIRECTORS

The Directors of the Company during the period under 

review, and subsequently to the date of this report, were:

BLACKROCK 

STANDARD LIFE 

LLOYDS DEVELOPMENT CAPITAL 

OLD MUTUAL GLOBAL INVESTORS 

VOLANTIS CAPITAL 

% of issued

share capital

32.20%

14.61%

8.80%

7.14%

5.69%

4.14%

• NEIL MCCAUSLAND 

• TOM JOULE

• COLIN PORTER

• MARC DENCH

• DAVID STEAD

• JILL LITTLE

RESULTS AND DIVIDENDS

Results for the 52 weeks ended 29 May 2016 are set out 

in the Consolidated Income Statement on page 43. As set 

out in the IPO Admission Document, the Directors are 

not recommending a dividend for FY16. 

COLUMBIA THREADNEEDLE INVESTMENTS  3.66%

ACQUISITION OF THE COMPANY’S OWN SHARES

Conditional on Admission, the Company was authorised 

in accordance with section 701 of the Act to make 

market purchases (within the meaning of section 

693(4) of the Act) of up to 8,749,979 Ordinary Shares 

(being approximately 10 per cent of the Share Capital) 

on such terms and in such manner as the Directors of 

the Company may from time to time determine. This 

authority was not used during the year or up to the date 

of this report. Shareholders will be asked to renew these 

authorities at the AGM as detailed in the AGM Notice. 

The Company held no treasury shares during the year.

ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION

A copy of the full Articles of Association are   

DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS

available on request from the Company Secretary   

and are also available on the Group’s corporate   

website w w w.joulesgroup.com. Any amendments   

to the articles of association can be made by a   

special resolution of the Shareholders.

SHARE CAPITAL AND SUBSTANTIAL SHAREHOLDERS

Details of the issued share capital, together with details of 

the movements during the year, are shown in Note 20 to 

the Consolidated Financial Statements. The Company has 

one class of ordinary share and each ordinary share carries 

the right to one vote at general meetings of the Company.

At 19 August 2016 the Company had been notif ied of the 

following substantial shareholders comprising 3% or more 

of the issued ordinary share capital of the Company:

Details of the Directors’ benef icial interests are set out 

in the Remuneration Report on pages 31 to 35.

DIRECTORS’ INDEMNITIES AND DIRECTORS AND 

OFFICERS’ LIABILITY INSUR ANCE

The Company has purchased directors’ and off icers’ 

liability insurance during the year as allowed by the 

Company’s articles.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dire ct ors’  Re port    37

FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT

EMPLOYEE INVOLVEMENT

Details of the Directors’ assessment of the principal risks   

The Directors’ recognise that communication with 

and uncertainties which could impact the business are 

the Group’s employees is essential and the Group 

outlined in the Principal Risks & Uncertainties section on 

places importance on the contributions and view of its 

pages 18 and 19. The Board manages internal risk through the 

employees. Details of employee involvement are set out 

on-going review of the Group’s risk register and the Board 

in the Social Responsibility Report on pages 20 and 21.

manages external risk through monitoring of the economic 

and regulatory environment and market conditions.

DISABLED EMPLOYEES

GOING CONCERN

Details of the Group’s policy in relation to disabled 

employees is set out in the Social Responsibility Report 

The Company’s going concern statement can be found   

on pages 20 and 21.

in the Consolidated Financial Statements on page 50.

POST BALANCE SHEET EVENTS

DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION TO THE AUDITORS

In the case of each Director in off ice at the date the 

There have been no material post balance sheet events.

Directors’ Report is approved, the following applies:

ANNUAL GENER AL MEETING

The Company’s first AGM will be held on 26 October 2016.

FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS IN THE BUSINESS 

OF THE COMPANY

The Strategic Report on pages 8 to 21 sets out the   

likely future developments of the Company.

CHANGE OF CONTROL

So far as the Directors are aware, there are no 

arrangements the operation of which may at a later 

date result in a change of control of the Company.

• 

The Director knows of no information, which would 

be relevant to the auditors for the purpose of their 

audit report, of which the auditors are not aware; 

and

• 

The Director has taken all steps that he/she ought to 

have taken as a director to make him/herself aware 

of any such information and to establish that the 

auditors are aware of it.

AUDITOR

The Auditor, Deloitte LLP, has indicated their   

willingness to continue in off ice and a resolution seeking 

to re-appoint them will be proposed at the AGM.

BR ANCHES OUTSIDE THE UK

The Group has branches in France, Germany and the 

JONATHAN DARGIE 

Company Secretary

Republic of Ireland. 

POLITICAL DONATIONS

No political donations were made during the   

period under review.

 
Statemen t of Directo rs’ Res po ns ibi li ties    39

S T A T E M E N T   O F   D I R E C T O R S ’   R E S P O N S I B I L I T I E S

J O U L E S   G R O U P   P L C

STATEMENT OF DIRECTORS’ RESPONSIBILITIES

The Directors are responsible for keeping adequate 

The Directors are responsible for preparing the Annual 

Report and the f inancial statements in accordance with 

applicable law and regulations.

Company law requires the Directors to prepare f inancial 

statements for each f inancial year. Under that law 

the Directors have elected to prepare the Group’s 

Consolidated Financial Statements in accordance with 

International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) 

as adopted by the European Union, and the Company 

accounting records that are suff icient to show and 

explain the Company’s transactions and disclose with 

reasonable accuracy at any time the f inancial position of 

the Group and Company and enable them to ensure that 

the f inancial statements comply with the requirements 

of the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for 

safeguarding the assets of the Group and Company and 

hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and 

detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Financial Statements in accordance with United Kingdom 

WEBSITE PUBLICATION

Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United 

Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable law). 

Under company law the Directors must not approve 

the f inancial statements unless they are satisf ied that 

they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of 

the Group and Company and of the prof it or loss of the 

Group for that period. The Directors are also required 

to prepare f inancial statements in accordance with 

the rules of the London Stock Exchange for companies 

trading securities on the Alternative Investment Market.

In preparing these f inancial statements, the Directors 

are required to:

The Directors are responsible for ensuring the Directors’ 

Report and f inancial statements are made available on 

a website. Financial statements are published on the 

Company’s website (w w w.joulesgroup.com) in accordance 

with legislation in the United Kingdom governing the 

preparation and dissemination of f inancial statements, 

which may vary from legislation in other jurisdictions. 

The maintenance and integrity of the Company’s website 

is the responsibility of the Directors. The Directors’ 

responsibility also extends to the ongoing integrity of 

the f inancial statements contained therein.

• 

Select suitable accounting policies and then apply 

MARC DENCH 

Chief Financial Officer

5 September 2016

them consistently

•  Make judgements and accounting estimates that are 

reasonable and prudent

• 

State whether they have been prepared in 

accordance with applicable accounting standards, 

subject to any material departures disclosed and 

explained in the f inancial statements; and

• 

Prepare the f inancial statements on a going concern 

basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the 

Company will continue in business.

C H A P T E R

3

F I N A N C I A L   S T A T E M E N T S

C O N S O L I D A T E D 

N o   G r e y   A r e a s

42    Au di to r’s Report 

A U D I T O R ’ S   R E P O R T

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS   

In addition, we read all the financial and non-financial 

OF JOULES GROUP PLC

We have audited the financial statements of Joules Group 

plc (the ‘Company’) and its subsidiaries (the ‘Group’) 

for the 52 week period ended 29 May 2016 (‘period’) 

which comprise the Consolidated Income Statement, 

the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income, 

the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position, the 

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity, the 

Consolidated Cash Flow Statement and the related notes   

1 to 30, the Company Balance Sheet, the Company 

information in the annual report to identify material 

inconsistencies with the audited financial statements and 

to identify any information that is apparently materially 

incorrect based on, or materially inconsistent with, the 

knowledge acquired by us in the course of performing 

the audit.  If we become aware of any apparent material 

misstatements or inconsistencies we consider the 

implications for our report.

OPINION ON FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Statement of Changes in Equity and the related notes 

In our opinion:

1 to 7. The financial reporting framework that has been 

• 

The financial statements give a true and fair view of 

applied in the preparation of the group financial statements 

the state of the group’s and of the parent company’s 

is applicable law and International Financial Reporting 

affairs as at 29 May 2016 and of the group’s loss for the 

Standards (IFRSs) as adopted by the European Union. The 

period then ended;

financial reporting framework that has been applied in the 

• 

The group financial statements have been properly 

preparation of the parent company financial statements is 

prepared in accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the 

United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom 

European Union;

Generally Accepted Accounting Practice), including FRS101 

• 

The parent company financial statements have been 

‘Reduced Disclosure Framework’ applicable in the UK and 

properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom 

Republic of Ireland. 

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 

Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and

• 

Have been prepared in accordance with the 

requirements of the Companies Act 2006.

OPINION ON OTHER MATTER PRESCRIBED BY   

THE COMPANIES ACT 2006

report and for no other purpose.  To the fullest extent 

In our opinion the information given in the Strategic Report 

permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility 

and the Directors’ Report for the financial period for which 

to anyone other than the company and the company’s 

the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the 

members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or 

financial statements.

for the opinions we have formed.

MATTERS ON WHICH WE ARE REQUIRED TO REPORT   

RESPECTIVE RESPONSIBILITIES OF DIRECTORS   

BY EXCEPTION

AND AUDITOR

As explained more fully in the Directors’ Responsibilities 

We have nothing to report in respect of the following 

matters where the Companies Act 2006 requires us to 

Statement, the directors are responsible for the preparation 

report to you if, in our opinion:

of the financial statements and for being satisfied that 

they give a true and fair view.  Our responsibility is to 

audit and express an opinion on the financial statements in 

• 

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 

accordance with applicable law and International Standards 

us; or

on Auditing (UK and Ireland).  Those standards require 

us to comply with the Auditing Practices Board’s Ethical 

Standards for Auditors.

SCOPE OF THE AUDIT OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

• 

• 

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 

An audit involves obtaining evidence about the amounts 

explanations we require for our audit.

and disclosures in the financial statements sufficient to 

give reasonable assurance that the financial statements 

MARK DOLEMAN FCA 

are free from material misstatement, whether caused by 

Senior statutory auditor

fraud or error.  This includes an assessment of: whether the 

accounting policies are appropriate to the Group’s and the 

parent company’s circumstances and have been consistently 

applied and adequately disclosed; the reasonableness of 

significant accounting estimates made by the directors; and 

the overall presentation of the financial statements.   

for and on behalf of Deloitte LLP 

Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditor 

Nottingham, UK

5 September 2016

Con sol idated Financial St at em ent s    43

C O N S O L I D A T E D   I N C O M E   S T A T E M E N T

J O U L E S   G R O U P   P L C

REVEN UE

Co s t of  s ales

GROSS PROFIT

A dm inis trative expenses

Exce ptio nal administrative expenses

Tota l admin istrative expenses

OPERATING PROFIT

Fin an ce incom e & similar incomes

Fin an ce co sts  and similar charges

No n -recurrin g f inance costs

PROF IT/( L OSS) BEFORE  TAX

Income tax exp ense

PROF IT/( L OSS) FOR THE PE RIOD

Bas ic  earnin gs/(loss) per share (pence)

D iluted earnin gs/(loss) per sh are (pence)

52WKS ENDED

53WKS E ND E D

29 MAY 2016 

31 MAY 2015 

NOTE

£’000

£’000

2

5

6

7

7

8

29

29

131,262

(61,003)

70,259

(62,296)

(3,128)

(65,424)

4,835

-

(461)

(5,554)

(1,180)

(613)

(1,793)

(2.04)

(2.04)

116,421

(54,386)

62,035

(56,458)

(500)

(56,958)

5,077

190

(416)

(4,762)

89

(529)

(440)

(0.50)

(0.50)

44    Co nsol idated Financ ia l S ta tem en ts 

C O N S O L I D A T E D   S T A T E M E N T   
O F   C O M P R E H E N S I V E   I N C O M E

J O U L E S   G R O U P   P L C

Profit/( l oss)  for the period

Ite ms  that  may be reclassified subsequently  to profit  or  loss:

Net gain/(lo ss)  arising on changes in fair value of  hedg ing   

i n stru ments entered into for cash f low hedges

Exch ange dif ference on translation of foreign  operations

Inco me tax  relating to items that will be rec lassif ied   

s ubs equently to prof it and loss

TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE (EXPENSE) / INCOME FOR THE PERIOD

NOTE

22

22

8

52WKS ENDED

53WKS E ND E D

29 MAY 2016 

31 MAY 2015 

£’000

(1,793)

(26) 

(48)

15

(1,852)

£’000

(440)

2,221

(31)

(444)

1,306

Con sol idated Fin an cial Statements    45

C O N S O L I D A T E D   S T A T E M E N T   
O F  F I N A N C I A L   P O S I T I O N

J O U L E S   G R O U P   P L C

NON-CUR RENT ASSETS 

Prop er t y, plant and equipment

Int ang ibles

D efe rred tax

TOTA L  NON-CURRENT ASSETS

CUR RENT ASSETS

Invento ries

Trade an d other receivables

Cu rrent cor poration tax receivable

Cas h a nd cash equivalents

D erivative f in ancial instruments

TOTA L  CURRENT ASSETS

TOTA L  ASSETS 

CUR RENT LIABILITIES

Trade an d other payables

Bo rrow ings

Provis ion s

TOTA L  CURRENT LIABIL ITIES

NON-CURRENT LIABILITIE S 

Bo rrow ings

TOTA L  LIA BIL ITIES

NET  ASSETS/(LIABILITIE S)

EQU ITIES

Share  capital

Hedg in g res er ve

Tran sl ation  reser ve

Merge r reser ve

Retain ed ear nings

Share  premium

TOTA L  EQUITY

29 MAY 2016 

31 MAY 2015 

NOTE

£’000

£’000

10

11

19

12

14

24

13

15

17

16

17

20

22

22

21

21

21

11,151

5,903

653

17,707

19,253

10,856

231

9,278

474

40,092

57,799

27,919

5,461

773

34,153

627

34,780

23,019

875

389

(72)

(125,807)

136,224

11,410

23,019

11,458

4,416

803

16,677

17,652

10,156

179

2,121

500

30,608

47,285

18,716

7,629

587

26,932

43,827

70,759

(23,474)

91,510

400

(24)

(125,662)

10,302

-

(23,474)

These financial statements of Joules Group plc (Company Registration Number 10164829)   

were approved by the Board of Directors and authorised for issue on 5 September 2016 and were 

signed on behalf of the Board of Directors by -

MARC DENCH 

Chief Financial Officer

5 September 2016

46    Co nsol idat ed Fina nc ial St at ement s 

C O N S O L I D A T E D   S T A T E M E N T   
O F  C H A N G E S   I N   E Q U I T Y

J O U L E S   G R O U P   P L C

MERGER 

HEDG IN G 

TRANSLATION 

SHAR E 

SHAR E 

R ETAIN ED 

RESERVE 

RESER VE 

R ESER V E 

C APITA L 

PR EMIUM 

EAR N ING S 

£’000

£’000

£’000

£’000

 £’000

 £’000

TOTA L

EQUITY 

 £’000

Balance at 25 May 2014 

(125,662)

(1,377)

Loss for the period

Other comprehensive   

income for the period

-

-

Balance at 30 May 2015

(125,662)

Loss for the period

Other comprehensive   

income for the period

-

-

Share buyback (note 20)

(145)

Share issue (note 20)

Share capital reduction (note 20)

Share issue (note 20)

-

-

-

-

1,777

400

-

(11)

-

-

-

-

7

-

(31)

(24)

-

(48)

-

-

-

-

Balance at 29 May 2016

(125,807)

   389

(72)

91,510

-

-

91,510

-

-

-

37,009

(127,715)

71

875

-

-

-

- 

-

-

-

-

-

10,742

(24,780)

(440)

(440)

-

1,746

10,302

(23,474)

(1,793)

(1,793)

-

-

-

127,715

(59)

(145)

37,009

-

11,410

11,410

-

11,481

136,224

23,019

Con sol idated Fin an cial Statements    47

C O N S O L I D A T E D   C A S H   F L O W   S T A T E M E N T

J O U L E S   G R O U P   P L C

NOTE

5 2W K S  EN DED
29 MAY 2016  
£’000

5 3W K S E NDE D
31 MAY  2015  
£’000

10

11

Net  cash in f low from operating activities

Prof it  before interest and income taxes

Adjustme nts  for:

Dep reciation

Amor tis ation

Impa irment of   f ixed assets

Prof it  on  sale of f ixed assets

F ina nce in com e

F ina nce expen se

Ta x  paid

( In creas e) /decrease in inventor y

( In creas e) /decrease in receivables

In crease/(dec rease) in payables

Net  cash f rom operating activities

Ca s h f low from investing activities

Pu rcha se of proper t y, plant and equipment

10/11

S ale  of proper t y, plant, equipment and intang ible  assets

Net  cash us ed in investing activities

Ca s h f low from financing activities

Proceeds from new share capital subscribed

Redem ption  of shares

Rep ayment of borrowings

Proceeds from borrowings

Net  cash (use d in)/generated from financing  activ it ie s

Net  (decreas e)/increase in cash and cash equival ents

Cas h an d cas h equivalents at beg inning of period

Ef fect  of  foreign exchange rate changes

Ca s h and cas h equivalents at end of period

20

20

23

23

23

24

4,835

4,516

1,011

380

-

-

(461)

(500)

(1,601)

(700)

9,389

16,869

(7,087)

-

(7,087)

11,481

(145)

(13,913)

-

(2,577)

7,205

2,121

(48)

9,278

5,077

4,242

554

500

-

190

(416)

(1,069)

(4,285)

(2,082)

3,330

6,041

(8,792)

-

(8,792)

-

-

(393)

1,049

656

(2,095)

4,247

(31)

2,121

48    Notes  to the Consolidat ed Fin anci al  St at em e nts   

N O T E S   T O   T H E   C O N S O L I D A T E D   
F I N A N C I A L  S T A T E M E N T S

J O U L E S   G R O U P   P L C

1.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Statement of Compliance

The f inancial information has been prepared in accordance with International Financial 

Reporting Standards (IFRSs) as adopted by the European Union. The particular accounting 

policies adopted and applied are described below. 

The Group f inancial statements comprise the f inancial information of the parent undertaking 

and its subsidiary undertakings.

The principal activity of the group is the design and sale of lifestyle clothing, related accessories 

and a homeware range, through the multi-channel business structure embracing retail stores, 

e-commerce, county shows and events and wholesale. The company’s registered office is Joules 

Building, The Point, Rockingham Road, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 7QU.

(IFRSs) Application of new and revised International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs)

New and revised IFRSs in issue but not yet effective

The Group has not applied the following new and revised IFRSs that have been issued but   

are not yet effective:

IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations (September 2014 

amendments)

IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures (September 2014 amendments)

IFRS 9 Financial Instruments (July 2014 amendments)

IFRS 10 Consolidated Financial Statements (December 2014 amendment)

IFRS 11 Joint Arrangements (May 2014 amendments)

IFRS 12 Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities (December 2014 amendments)

IFRS 14 Regulatory Deferral Accounts (January 2014)

IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (May 2014 and September 2015 amendments)

IFRS 16 Leases (January 2016 amendments)

IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements (December 2014 amendments)

IAS 7 Statement of Cash Flows (January 2016 amendments)

IAS 12 Income Taxes (January 2016 amendments)

IAS 16 Property, Plant and Equipment (May and June 2014 amendments)

IAS 19 Employee Benef its (September 2014 amendments)

IAS 27 Separate Financial Statements (August 2014 amendments)

IAS 28 Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures (December 2014 amendments)

IAS 34 Interim Financial Reporting (September 2014)

IAS 38 Intangible Assets (May 2014 amendments)

The effect of these standards is not expected to be material to the f inancial statements, with 

the potential exception of IFRS 16 Leases, however it is not practicable to provide an estimate 

of the effect of these standards until a detailed review has been completed. 

Note s to  the  Cons olidate d Financia l  State m ent s    49

1.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

Basis of Preparation

The historical f inancial information incorporates the f inancial statements of the group and 

entities controlled by the G roup (its subsidiaries) to 31 May 2015 and 29 May 2016.

The historic financial information has been prepared in accordance with International Financial 

Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union. These are presented in pounds sterling 

because that is the currency of the primary economic environment in which the G roup operates. 

Foreign operations are included in accordance with the policies set out below.

The annual f inancial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis, except   

for certain f inancial assets and liabilities which are carried at fair value or amortised cost   

as appropriate. 

In addition, for f inancial reporting purposes, fair value measurements are categorised into 

Level 1, 2 or 3 based on the degree to which the inputs to the fair value measurements are 

observable and the signif icance of the inputs to the fair value measurement, which are 

described as follows:

• 

• 

• 

Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or 

liabilities that the entity can access at the measurement date;

Level 2 inputs are inputs, other than quoted prices included within Level 1, that are 

observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly; and

Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with International Financial Reporting 

Standards adopted by the European Union requires the use of estimates and assumptions that 

affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and 

liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and 

expenses during the reported period. Although these estimates are based on management’s best 

knowledge of current events and actions, actual results ultimately may differ from those estimates.

The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.

Basis of Consolidation

The consolidated f inancial statements incorporate the f inancial statements of the Company 

and entities (including structured entities) controlled by the Company and its subsidiaries. 

Control is achieved when the Company:

• 

• 

• 

has power over the investee;

is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the investee; and

has the ability to use its power to affect its returns.

The Company reassesses whether or not it controls an investee if facts and circumstances 

indicate that there are changes to one or more of the three elements of control listed above.

When the Company has less than a majority of the voting rights of an investee, it has power 

over the investee when the voting rights are suff icient to give it the practical ability to direct 

the relevant activities of the investee unilaterally.

The Company considers all relevant facts and circumstances in assessing whether or not the 

Company’s voting rights in an investee are suff icient to give it power, including:

• 

• 

• 

• 

the size of the Company’s holding of voting rights relative to the size and dispersion of 

holdings of the other vote holders;

potential voting rights held by the Company, other vote holders or other parties;

rights arising from other contractual arrangements; and

any additional facts and circumstances that indicate that the Company has, or does not 

have, the current ability to direct the relevant activities at the time that decisions need to 

be made, including voting patterns at previous shareholders’ meetings.

50    Notes  to the Consolida ted Fin anci a l  St at e me n ts   

1.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

Basis of Consolidation (continued)

Consolidation of a subsidiary begins when the Company obtains control over the subsidiary 

and ceases when the Company loses control of the subsidiary. Specif ically, income and 

expenses of a subsidiary acquired or disposed of during the year are included in the 

consolidated statement of prof it or loss and other comprehensive income from the date the 

Company gains control until the date when the Company ceases to control the subsidiary.

Prof it or loss and each component of other comprehensive income are attributed to the 

owners of the Company and to the non-controlling interests. Total comprehensive income of 

subsidiaries is attributed to the owners of the Company and to the non-controlling interests 

even if this results in the non-controlling interests having a def icit balance.

When necessary, adjustments are made to the f inancial statements of subsidiaries to bring 

their accounting policies into line with the Group’s accounting policies.

All intragroup assets and liabilities, equity, income, expenses and cash f lows relating to 

transactions between members of the Group are eliminated in full on consolidation.

Merger reserve

Business combinations are dealt with under IFRS 3, IFRS 3 however does not apply to group 

reconstructions. Joules Group plc, a company incorporated in England and Wales entered 

into an agreement to acquire the entire issued share capital of Joules Investments Holdings 

Limited, however as the majority of shareholders before and after the transaction remained 

the same the transaction is therefore a group reconstruction.   

There is currently no specif ic guidance on accounting for group reconstructions such as 

this transaction under IFRSs. In the absence of specif ic guidance, entities should select an 

appropriate accounting policy and IFRS permits the consideration of pronouncements of   

other standard-setting bodies. This group reconstruction as scoped out of IFRS 3 has 

therefore been accounted for using reverse acquisition accounting principles in accordance 

with UK GA AP. Reverse acquisition accounting is a technique used in preparing consolidated 

accounts resulting in the following practical effects; 

• 

The net assets of the two companies are combined using existing book values, with 

adjustments made as necessary to ensure that the same accounting policies are applied to 

the calculation of the net assets of both companies; 

• 

• 

No amount is recognised as consideration for goodwill or negative goodwill; 

The consolidated prof it and loss account includes the prof its of each company for the 

entire period, regardless of the date of the reconstruction, and the comparative amounts 

in the consolidated f inancial statements are restated to the aggregate of the amounts 

recorded by the two companies;

• 

The retained earnings reserve includes the cumulative results of each company, 

regardless of the date of the reconstruction, and the comparative amounts in the 

statement of f inancial position are restated to the aggregate of the retained earnings 

reserves recorded by the two companies; and 

• 

A merger reserve is created being the premium on equity consideration used in the 

acquisition of subsidiary Joules Investments Holdings Limited, by Joules Group plc in 2016 

plus cumulative retained earnings of each company as at the combination date.

Going concern

The Directors have prepared a detailed forecast with a supporting business plan for 

the foreseeable future. The forecast indicates that the Group will remain in compliance 

with covenants throughout the forecast period. As such, the Directors have a reasonable 

expectation the Company and Group will have adequate resources to continue in operational 

existence for the foreseeable future. As such, they continue to prepare the f inancial 

statements on the basis of going concern.

 
 
 
 
 
 
Note s to  the  Co nso lidat ed Fin an ci al  St at em e nts    51

1.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

Revenue Recognition

Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable. Revenue is 

reduced for estimated customer returns, rebates and other similar allowances.

Sale of goods

Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised when the goods are delivered and titles have 

passed, at which time all the following conditions are satisf ied:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

the Group has transferred to the buyer the signif icant risks and rewards of ownership of 

the goods;

the Group retains neither continuing managerial involvement to the degree usually 

associated with ownership nor effective control over the goods sold;

the amount of revenue can be measured reliably;

it is probable that the economic benef its associated with the transaction will f low to the 

Group; and

the costs incurred or to be incurred in respect of the transaction can be measured reliably.

Property, plant and equipment

Land and buildings held for use in the production or supply of goods or services, or for 

administrative purposes, are stated in the statement of f inancial position at their fair 

value, being the deemed cost at the date of revaluation, less any subsequent accumulated 

depreciation and subsequent accumulated impairment losses.

Certain items of property, plant and equipment are stated at deemed cost less accumulated 

depreciation and accumulated impairment losses. Other items are stated at historical cost less 

accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses. All assets are depreciated on 

the straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives.

Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its 

estimated useful life or, if held under a f inance lease term, whichever is the shorter.

Leasehold improvements   - straight line over the lease period

Fixtures and f ittings 

- straight line over 3 – 5 years

Motor vehicles 

- straight line over 4 years

 
52    Note s to  the Cons olidat ed Fin an ci al  St at em e nt s   

1.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued) 

Intangible A ssets

IT Projects

Software and IT represent computer systems and processes used by the Group in order to 

generate future economic value through normal business operations. The underlying assets 

are amortised over the period from which the Group expects to benef it, which is typically 

between three to eight years.

Intangible assets acquired separately

Intangible assets with f inite useful lives that are acquired separately are carried at cost less 

accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses. Amortisation is recognised 

on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. The estimated useful life and 

amortisation method are reviewed at the end of each reporting period, with the effect of 

any changes in estimate being accounted for on a prospective basis. Intangible assets with 

indef inite useful lives that are acquired separately are carried at cost less accumulated 

impairment losses.

Research and development expenditure

Expenditure on research activities is recognised as an expense in the period in which it is incurred.

Internally-generated intangible assets

An internally-generated intangible asset arising from development (or from the development 

phase of an internal project) is recognised if, and only if, all of the following have been 

demonstrated:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

the technical feasibility of completing the intangible asset so that it will be available for 

use or sale;

the intention to complete the intangible asset and use or sell it;

the ability to use or sell the intangible asset;

how the intangible asset will generate probable future economic benef its;

the availability of adequate technical, f inancial and other resources to complete the 

development and to use or sell the intangible asset; and

the ability to measure reliably the expenditure attributable to the intangible asset during 

its development.

The amount initially recognised for internally-generated intangible assets is the sum of the 

expenditure incurred from the date when the intangible asset f irst meets the recognition 

criteria listed above. Where no internally-generated intangible asset can be recognised, 

development expenditure is recognised in prof it or loss in the period in which it is incurred.

Subsequent to initial recognition, internally-generated intangible assets are reported at cost 

less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses, on the same basis as 

intangible assets that are acquired separately.

Intangible assets acquired in a business combination

Intangible assets acquired in a business combination and recognised separately from goodwill 

are initially recognised at their fair value at the acquisition date (which is regarded as their cost).

Subsequent to initial recognition, intangible assets acquired in a business combination are 

reported at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses, on the 

same basis as intangible assets that are acquired separately.

Derecognition of intangible assets

An intangible asset is derecognised on disposal, or when no future economic benef its are 

expected from use or disposal.

Gains or losses arising from derecognition of an intangible asset, measured as the difference 

between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset, and are recognised 

in prof it or loss when the asset is derecognised.

Note s to  the  Co nso lidat ed Fin an ci al  St at em e nts    53

1.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued) 

Impairment of tangible and intangible assets other than goodwill

At each statement of f inancial position date, the Group reviews the carrying amounts of its 

tangible 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 (if any). Where it is 

not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, the Group estimates 

the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit to which the asset belongs.

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 f lows are discounted to their present value using a 

pre-tax discount rate that ref lects current market assessments of the time value of money and 

the risks specif ic to the asset.

If the recoverable amount of an asset (or cash-generating unit) is estimated to be less than 

its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset (cash-generating unit) is reduced to its 

recoverable amount. An impairment loss is recognised immediately in prof it or loss, unless the 

relevant asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case the impairment loss is treated as 

a revaluation decrease.

Where an impairment loss subsequently reverses, the carrying amount of the asset (cash-

generating unit) 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 (cash-generating unit) 

in prior years. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognised immediately in prof it or loss, 

unless the relevant asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case the reversal of the 

impairment loss is treated as a revaluation increase.

Inventories

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value, after making due 

allowance for any obsolete or slow moving items.

Taxation

Income tax expense represents the sum of the tax currently payable and deferred tax.

Current tax

The tax currently payable is based on taxable prof it for the year. Taxable prof it differs from 

‘prof it before tax’ as reported in the consolidated statement of prof it or loss and other 

comprehensive income because of items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible 

in other years and items that are never taxable or deductible.

The Group’s current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively 

enacted by the end of the reporting period.

Deferred tax

Deferred tax is recognised on temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets 

and liabilities in the consolidated f inancial statements and the corresponding tax bases used 

in the computation of taxable prof it. Deferred tax liabilities are generally recognised for all 

taxable temporary differences. Deferred tax assets are generally recognised for all deductible 

temporary differences to the extent that it is probable that taxable prof its will be available 

against which those deductible temporary differences can be utilised. 

Such deferred tax assets and liabilities are not recognised if the temporary difference arises 

from the initial recognition (other than in a business combination) of assets and liabilities in 

a transaction that affects neither the taxable prof it nor the accounting prof it. In addition, 

deferred tax liabilities are not recognised if the temporary difference arises from the initial 

recognition of goodwill.

54    Note s to  the Conso lida te d Fin a nc ia l  State m en ts   

1.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

Taxation (continued)

Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for taxable temporary differences associated with 

investments in subsidiaries and associates, and interests in joint ventures, except where the 

Group is able to control the reversal of the temporary difference and it is probable that the 

temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future. Deferred tax assets arising 

from deductible temporary differences associated with such investments and interests are 

only recognised to the extent that it is probable that there will be suff icient taxable prof its 

against which to utilise the benef its of the temporary differences and they are expected to 

reverse in the foreseeable future.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at the end of each reporting period 

and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that suff icient taxable prof its will be 

available to allow all or part of the asset to be recovered.

Deferred tax liabilities and assets are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply in 

the period in which the liability is settled or the asset realised, based on tax rates (and tax 

laws) that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the end of the reporting period.

The measurement of deferred tax liabilities and assets ref lects the tax consequences that 

would follow from the manner in which the Group expects, at the end of the reporting period, 

to recover or settle the carrying amount of its assets and liabilities.

Current and deferred tax for the year

Current and deferred tax are recognised in prof it or loss, except when they relate to items that 

are recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity, in which case, the current 

and deferred tax are also recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity 

respectively. Where current tax or deferred tax arises from the initial accounting for a business 

combination, the tax effect is included in the accounting for the business combination.

Foreign currencies

In preparing the f inancial statements of each individual Group entity, transactions in 

currencies other than the entity’s functional currency (foreign currencies) are recognised at 

the rates of exchange prevailing at the dates of the transactions.

At the end of each reporting period, monetary items denominated in foreign currencies are 

retranslated at the rates prevailing at that date. Non-monetary items carried at fair value 

that are denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the rates prevailing at the 

date when the fair value was determined. Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of 

historical cost in a foreign currency are not retranslated.

Exchange differences on monetary items are recognised in prof it or loss in the period in 

which they arise, except for:

• 

exchange differences on foreign currency borrowings relating to assets under construction 

• 

• 

for future productive use, which are included in the cost of those assets when they are 

regarded as an adjustment to interest costs on those foreign currency borrowings;

exchange differences on transactions entered into in order to hedge certain foreign 

currency risks (see below for hedging accounting policies); and

exchange differences on monetary items receivable from or payable to a foreign operation 

for which settlement is neither planned nor likely to occur (therefore forming part of 

the net investment in the foreign operation), which are recognised initially in other 

comprehensive income and reclassif ied from equity to prof it or loss on repayment of the 

monetary items.

For the purposes of presenting these consolidated f inancial statements, the assets and 

liabilities of the Group’s foreign operations are translated into GBP using exchange rates 

prevailing at the end of each reporting period. Income and expense items are translated 

at the average exchange rates for the period, unless exchange rates f luctuate signif icantly 

during that period, in which case the exchange rates at the dates of the transactions are 

used. Exchange differences arising, if any, are recognised in other comprehensive income and 

accumulated in equity (and attributed to non-controlling interests as appropriate).

Note s to  the  Cons olidate d Financia l  State m ent s    55

1.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

Foreign currencies (continued) 

On the disposal of a foreign operation (i.e. a disposal of the Group’s entire interest in a 

foreign operation, a disposal involving loss of control over a subsidiary that includes a foreign 

operation, or a partial disposal of an interest in a joint arrangement or an associate that 

includes a foreign operation of which the retained interest becomes a f inancial asset), all of 

the exchange differences accumulated in equity in respect of that operation attributable to 

the owners of the Company are reclassif ied to prof it or loss.

Hire purchase and leasing commitments (Leasing)

Leases are classif ied as f inance leases whenever the terms of the lease transfer substantially 

all the risks and rewards of ownership to the lessee. All other leases are classif ied as 

operating leases.

The Group as lessee

Assets held under f inance leases are initially recognised as assets of the Group at their fair 

value at the inception of the lease or, if lower, at the present value of the minimum lease 

payments. The corresponding liability to the lessor is included in the consolidated statement 

of f inancial position as a f inance lease obligation.

Lease payments are apportioned between f inance expenses and reduction of the lease 

obligation so as to achieve a constant rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability. 

Finance expenses are recognised immediately in prof it or loss, unless they are directly 

attributable to qualifying assets, in which case they are capitalised in accordance with the 

Group’s general policy on borrowing costs. Contingent rentals are recognised as expenses in 

the periods in which they are incurred.

Operating lease payments are recognised as an expense on a straight-line basis over the 

lease term, except where another systematic basis is more representative of the time pattern 

in which economic benef its from the leased asset are consumed. Contingent rentals arising 

under operating leases are recognised as an expense in the period in which they are incurred.

Pensions

The Group operates a def ined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable for the 

period are recognised as an expense when employees have rendered service entitling them to 

the contributions.

Provisions 

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 obligation 

and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.

The amount recognised as a provision is the best estimate of the consideration required to 

settle the present obligation at the end of the reporting period, taking into account the risks 

and uncertainties surrounding the obligation. When a provision is measured using the cash 

f lows estimated to settle the present obligation, its carrying amount is the present value of 

those cash f lows (when the effect of the time value of money is material).

When some or all of the economic benef its required to settle a provision are expected to be 

recovered from a third party, a receivable is recognised as an asset if it is virtually certain that 

reimbursement will be received and the amount of the receivable can be measured reliably.

Returns provision

Present obligations arising under sales returns are recognised and measured as provisions when 

it is probable that the Group will be required to settle the obligation under sales contracts.

Lease dilapidation

The Group recognises present obligations arising from lease contracts where it is required to 

restore the stores to their pre lease condition upon the expiry of leases.

56    Note s to  the Conso lida te d Fin a nc ia l  State m en ts   

1.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

Financial instruments

Financial assets and f inancial liabilities are recognised when a group entity becomes a party 

to the contractual provisions of the instruments.

Financial assets and f inancial liabilities are initially measured at fair value. Transaction costs 

that are directly attributable to the acquisition or issue of f inancial assets and f inancial 

liabilities (other than f inancial assets and f inancial liabilities at fair value through prof it 

or loss) are added to or deducted from the fair value of the f inancial assets or f inancial 

liabilities, as appropriate, on initial recognition. Transaction costs directly attributable to the 

acquisition of f inancial assets or f inancial liabilities at fair value through prof it or loss are 

recognised immediately in prof it or loss.

Financial  Assets

Trade and other receivables

Trade and other receivables originated by the company are stated at amortised cost as 

reduced by appropriate allowances for doubtful debts.

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents are measured at fair value, based on the relevant exchange rates at 

the statement of f inancial position and include overdrafts where these are used on a day to 

day basis to manage cash.

Loans and receivables

Trade receivables, loans and other receivables that have f ixed or determinable payments 

that are not quoted in an active market are classif ied as ‘loans and receivables’. Loans and 

receivables are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less any 

impairment. Interest income is recognised by applying the effective interest rate, except for 

short-term receivables when the recognition of interest would be immaterial.

Financial Liabilities and Equity Instruments

Financial liabilities

Financial liabilities and equity instruments are classif ied according to the substance of the 

contractual arrangements entered into and are classif ied as either f inancial liabilities ‘at 

FVTPL’ or ‘other f inancial liabilities’.

Equity instruments

An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the 

company after deducting all of its liabilities. Equity instruments issued by the company are 

recorded at the proceeds received, net of direct issue costs.

Financial liabilities at Fair Value Through the Profit and Loss account ‘FVTPL’

Financial liabilities are classif ied as at FVTPL where the f inancial liability is either held for 

trading or it is designated as at FVTPL.

Other financial liabilities 

Other f inancial liabilities, including loans payable, are initially measured at fair value, net of 

transaction costs. Other f inancial liabilities are subsequently measured at amortised cost.

Loans payable

Interest-bearing loans are initially recorded on the day that the loans are advanced at the net 

proceeds received.

At subsequent reporting dates, interest-bearing borrowings are measured at amortised cost. 

Finance charges, including premiums payable on settlement or redemption and direct issue 

costs, are accounted for on the accrual basis in the statement of comprehensive income using 

the effective interest rate method and are added to the carrying amount of the instrument to 

the extent that they are not settled in the period in which they arise.

Trade payables

Trade payables are stated at amortised cost.

Note s to  the  Cons olidate d Financia l  State m ent s    57

1.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

Derivative financial instruments

The Group enters into a variety of derivative f inancial instruments to manage its exposure to 

foreign exchange rate risks, through the use of foreign exchange forward contracts.

Derivatives are initially recognised at fair value at the date the derivative contracts are 

entered into and are subsequently re-measured to their fair value at the end of each reporting 

period. The resulting gain or loss is recognised in prof it or loss immediately unless the 

derivative is designated and effective as a hedging instrument, in which event the timing of 

the recognition in prof it or loss depends on the nature of the hedge relationship.

Hedge Accounting

The Group designates certain hedging instruments, which include derivatives, embedded 

derivatives and non-derivatives in respect of foreign currency risk, as either fair value hedges, 

cash f low hedges, or hedges of net investments in foreign operations. Hedges of foreign 

exchange risk on f irm commitments are accounted for as cash f low hedges.

At the inception of the hedge relationship, the entity documents the relationship between the 

hedging instrument and the hedged item, along with its risk management objectives and its 

strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions.

Furthermore, at the inception of the hedge and on an ongoing basis, the Group documents 

whether the hedging instrument is highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash 

f lows of the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk.

Cash f low hedges

The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify 

as cash f low hedges are recognised in other comprehensive income and accumulated under 

the heading of cash f low hedging reserve. The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is 

recognised immediately in profit or loss, and is included in the ‘other gains and losses’ line item.

Amounts previously recognised in other comprehensive income and accumulated in equity 

are reclassif ied to prof it or loss in the periods when the hedged item affects prof it or loss, in 

the same line as the recognised hedged item. However, when the hedged forecast transaction 

results in the recognition of a non-f inancial asset or a non-f inancial liability, the gains and 

losses previously recognised in other comprehensive income and accumulated in equity 

are transferred from equity and included in the initial measurement of the cost of the non-

f inancial asset or non-f inancial liability.

Hedge accounting is discontinued when the Group revokes the hedging relationship, when the 

hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated, or exercised, or when it no longer qualifies for 

hedge accounting. Any gain or loss recognised in other comprehensive income and accumulated 

in equity at that time remains in equity and is recognised when the forecast transaction is 

ultimately recognised in profit or loss. When a forecast transaction is no longer expected to 

occur, the gain or loss accumulated in equity is recognised immediately in profit or loss.

58    Notes  to the Consolida ted Fin anci al  S tatem ent s   

1.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

Share-based payments

Equity-settled share-based payments to employees are measured at the fair value of the 

equity instruments at the grant date. The fair value excludes the effect of non-market-based 

vesting conditions. Details regarding the determination of the fair value of equity-settled 

share-based transactions are set out in note 30.

The fair value determined at the grant date of the equity-settled share-based payments is 

expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period, based on the Group’s estimate of 

equity instruments that will eventually vest. At each balance sheet date, the Group revises its 

estimate of the number of equity instruments expected to vest as a result of the effect of   

non-market-based vesting conditions. The impact of the revision of the original estimates, 

if any, is recognised in prof it or loss such that the cumulative expense ref lects the revised 

estimate, with a corresponding adjustment to equity reserves.

For cash-settled share-based payments, a liability is recognised for the goods or services 

acquired, measured initially at the fair value of the liability. At each balance sheet date 

until the liability is settled, and at the date of settlement, the fair value of the liability is 

remeasured, with any changes in fair value recognised in prof it or loss for the year.

Critical accounting judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty

Drawing up the f inancial statements in accordance with IFRS requires management to make 

the necessary estimates and assessments. Estimates are based on past experience and other 

reasonable assessment criteria. There remains a probability, however, that the estimates and 

assessments will bring about an adjustment in the value of the assets and liabilities in future 

f inancial years.

The directors have made signif icant accounting estimates and judgements in applying the 

Group’s accounting policies in the following areas:

Impairment:  Stores are identif ied for further impairment testing primarily on the basis of 

current performance, with growth assumptions based on directors’ knowledge and experience. 

The directors have used forecast models and an appropriate pre-tax weighted average cost of 

capital in its property, plant and equipment impairment calculations.

Inventory valuation: The directors have used their knowledge and experience of the 

retail industry in determining the level and rates of provisioning required to calculate the 

appropriate inventory carrying values. Inventory is carried in the f inancial statements at 

the lower of cost and net realisable value. Sales in the retail industry vary with changes 

in consumer demand. As a result there is a risk that the cost of inventory exceeds its net 

realisable value. Management calculate the inventory provision on the basis of the ageing 

prof ile of what is in stock. Adjustments are made where appropriate based on directors’ 

knowledge and experience to calculate the appropriate inventory carrying values.

2.

REVENUE

The revenue and profit before taxation are attributable to the one principal activity of the Group.

Sale of goods

Finance income and similar incomes

5 2W K S  EN DED
29 MAY 2016  
£’000

5 3W K S E NDE D
31 MAY  2015  
£’000

131,262

-

131,262

116,421

190

116,611

Note s to  the  Co nso lidat ed Fin an ci al  St at em e nts    59

3.

SEGMENT REPORTING

The Group has three reportable segments; Retail, Wholesale and Other. For each of the 

three segments, the Group’s chief operating decision maker (the “Board”) reviews internal 

management reports on a monthly basis. Each segment can be summarised as follows:

• 

Retail: Retail includes sales and costs relevant to Stores, E-commerce, Shows and 

Franchises.

•  Wholesale: Wholesale includes sales and costs relevant to the sale of products to other 

retail businesses or distributors for onward sale to their customer.

• 

Other: Other includes income from licencing, central costs and items that are not 

distinguishable into categories above.

The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as described in note 1. 

Information regarding the results of each reportable segment is included below. Segment 

results before exceptional items are used to measure performance as management believes 

that such information is the most relevant in evaluating the performance of certain segments 

relative to other entities that operate within these industries. 

Segment Revenue and Results

52 WEEKS ENDED 29 MAY 20 16

Revenue

Cost of sales

Gross profit

Administration expenses

Segment result

Reconciliation of segment result to profit before tax

Segment result

Depreciation and amortisation

Central administrative expenses

Exceptional costs

Net finance expense

Interest receivable and similar income

Loss before tax

53 WEEKS ENDED 31 MAY 20 15

Revenue

Cost of sales

Gross profit

Administration expenses

Segment result

Reconciliation of segment result to profit before tax

Segment result

Depreciation and amortisation

Central administrative expenses

Exceptional costs

Net finance expense

Interest receivable and similar income

Profit before tax

R ETAIL
£ ’00 0

WHOLESALE
£ ’00 0

OT HER
£ ’00 0

TOTA L
£’000

93,687

37,196

(36,616)

(24,387)

57,071

12,809

379

-

379

131,262

(61,003)

70,259

(34,146)

(5,998)

(16,348)

(56,492)

22,925

6,811

(15,969)

13,767

22,925

(3,306)

6,811

(15,969)

13,767

(258)

(1,963)

(5,527)

(277)

(3,128)

(6,015)

-

(1,180)

R ETAIL
£ ’00 0

WHO LESALE
£ ’00 0

OT HER
£ ’00 0

TOTA L
£’000

84,413

31,633

(35,009)

(19,377)

49,404

12,256

375

-

375

116,421

(54,386)

62,035

(31,865)

(4,762)

(14,698)

(51,325)

17,539

7,494

(14,323)

10,710

17,539

(2,956)

7,494

(14,323)

10,710

(161)

(1,679)

(4,796)

(337)

(500)

(5,178)

190

89

60    Notes  to the Consolida ted Fin anci al  S tatem ent s   

3.

SEGMENT REPORTING (Continued) 

There are no discontinued operations in the period. 

GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

The Group’s revenue from external customers by geographical location are as detailed below. 

Predominantly all non-current assets (excluding f inancial instruments, deferred tax assets and 

other f inancial assets) are situated in the UK, therefore separate geographical disclosure of non-

current assets is not considered necessary.

52 weeks ended 29 May 2016

53 weeks ended 31 May 2015

UK 
£ ’00 0

IN T ER N AT IONA L
£ ’00 0

SUPPOR T
£ ’00 0

118,041

105,819

13,222

10,602

-

-

TOTA L
£’000

131,262

116,421

4.

INFORMATION REGARDING DIRECTORS AND EMPLOYEES

Staff costs during the period

Wages and salaries

Social security costs

Other pension costs

Average number of persons employed

Head office

Stores and Shows

Warehousing

Directors’ remuneration

5 2W K S  EN DED
29 MAY 2016  
£’000

5 3W K S E ND E D
31 MAY  2015  
£’000

19,918

1,884

227

22,029

17,721

1,502

236

19,459

N UMBER

NUMBER

353

998

88

1,439

317

932

79

1,328

5 2W K S  EN DED
29 MAY 2016  
£’000

5 3W K S  END ED
31 MAY 2015  
£’000

1,145

867

N UMBER

N UMBE R

The number of directors to whom retirement benefits are accruing are as follows: 

Defined contribution scheme

3

3

Highest paid director

Emoluments 

5 2W K S  EN DED
29 MAY 2016  
£’000

5 3W K S  END ED
31 MAY 2015  
£’000

428

326

Note s to  the  Cons olidate d Financia l  State m en ts    61

5.

EXPENSES BY NATURE

Cost of inventories

Transportation, carriage and packing

Employees remuneration and benefits and third party labour costs

Depreciation and amortisation 

Exceptional impairment 

Other expenses

5 2W K S  EN DED
29 MAY 2016  
£’000

5 3W K S E NDE D
31 MAY  2015  
£’000

51,572

6,905

25,597

5,527

380

36,446

126,427

46,842

5,450

22,984

4,796

500

30,772

111,344

Other expenses and exceptional impairment include £3,128,000 for May 2016 (May 2015: £500,000) of 

exceptional items which have been disclosed separately on the face of the income statement in order 

to summarise the underlying results. Neither ‘underlying profit or loss’ nor ‘exceptional items’ are 

defined by IFRS however the directors believe that the disclosures presented in this manner provide 

clear presentation of the financial performance of the Group.

Other expenses include £3,162,000 of costs and offsetting income, which net to £nil, that were 

incurred as part of the listing of Joules Group plc on AIM. These costs were recharged to the 

exiting shareholders as the listing related to the disposal of their shares. The net amount of   

£nil has been classif ied as Exceptional.

The analysis of auditor’s remuneration is as follows:

Fees payable to the company’s auditor for the audit of the Group’s annual accounts

Total audit fees

Other services pursuant to legislation:

Tax compliance

Tax advice

Services relating to IPO

Other

Total non-audit fees

5 2W K S  EN DED
29 MAY 2016  
£’000

5 3W K S  END ED
31 MAY 2015  
£’000

44

44

66

74

803

5 

948

40

40

15

99

-

6

120

62    Note s to  the Cons olidat ed Fin an ci al  St at em e nt s   

6.

OPERATING PROFIT

OPERATING PROFIT IS STATED  AFTER  CHAR GI NG/(CR EDIT IN G) :

Hire of plant and machinery

Other operating leases

Depreciation, amortisation and impairment of fixed assets

(Profit)/loss on disposal of fixed assets

7.

INTEREST PAYABLE AND SIMILAR CHARGES

Bank loan interest

Shareholder loan note interest

Amortisation of debt costs 

5 2W K S EN DED
29 MAY 2016  
£’000

5 3W K S E NDE D
31 MAY  2015  
£’000

444

8,570

5,907

-

597

7,928

5,296

-

5 2W K S EN DED
29 MAY 2016  
£’000

5 3W K S E NDE D
31 MAY  2015  
£’000

461

4,676

878

6,015

416

4,399

363

5,178

Amortisation of debt costs relate to fees incurred in 2013 with regard to the Shareholder loan notes,   

as these fees related to a debt facility they were amortised over the expected life of the facility.   

During the period, the Shareholder loan note debt was settled and all remaining unamortised debt 

costs were expensed.

8.

INCOME TAX

a)  Analysis of charge in the period

Current tax

UK corporation tax based on the profit/(loss) for the period 

Adjustment in respect of prior periods

Overseas tax

Total current tax charge

Deferred taxation (note 19)

Adjustment in respect of prior periods

Origination and reversal of timing differences

Effect of adjustment in tax rate

Total deferred taxation charge/(credit)

Tax charge for the period (note 8b)

In addition to the amount charged to the income statement, the 

following amounts relating to tax have been recognised in other 

comprehensive income.

5 2W K S EN DED
29 MAY 2016  
£’000

5 3W K S E NDE D
31 MAY  2015  
£’000

869

(438)

17

448

225

(142)

82

165

613

1,083

(561)

21

543

330

(358)

14

(14)

529

5 2W K S EN DED
29 MAY 2016  
£’000

5 3W K S E ND E D
31 MAY  2015  
£’000

Deferred taxation (note 19)

Gains/(losses) arising during the period on deferred tax on cash f low hedges

Total income tax gain / (loss) recognised in other comprehensive income

15

15

(444)

(444)

Note s to  the  Cons olidate d Financia l  State m ent s    63

8.

INCOME TAX (continued)

b)  Factors affecting the tax charge for the period 

There are reconciling items between the expected tax charge and the actual which are shown below:

Profit / (loss) before taxation

UK corporation tax at the standard rate 

Effects of:

Expenses/(credits) not deductible for tax purposes and   

other permanent differences

Difference in overseas tax rate

Effect of adjustment in tax rate

Losses not recognised due to uncertainty

Adjustment in respect of prior period

Tax expense for the period (note 8a)

5 2W K S  EN DED
29 MAY 2016  
£’000

5 3W K S E NDE D
31 MAY  2015  
£’000

(1,180)

20.0%

(236)

940

17

82

23

(213)

613

89

20.8%

19

553

11

14

163

(231)

529

The 2013 budget issued on 20 March 2013 announced that the main rate of corporation tax would be 

reduced to 21% from 1 April 2014 and to 20% from 1 April 2015. The UK corporation tax at the standard 

rate for the year is therefore 20.0% (2015: 20.8%). 

In July 2015 the UK government announced its intention to reduce the standard corporation tax rate 

to 18% by 2020. The measure to reduce the rate to 19% for the f inancial year beginning 1 April 2017 

and to 18% for the f inancial year beginning 1 April 2020 were substantively enacted on 26 October 

2015 and have been ref lected in the calculation of deferred tax in the May 2016 numbers.

9.

SUBSIDIARIES

As at the period-end the Group had the following subsidiaries, those marked with * being indirect holdings:

SUBSIDIARY NAME

NATUR E OF BUSIN ESS

PLACE OF 
INCORPORATION 
AND OPERATION

PROPORTION 
OF OWNERSHIP 
INTEREST

PR OPORTI ON 
OF VOTING 
POWER H EL D

Joules Investments Holdings Limited

Holding company

England and Wales

Joules Limited*

Retailer

England and Wales

Joules Hong Kong Limited*

Overseas trading entity

Hong Kong

Wickmere No 1 Limited*

Dormant company

England and Wales

Wickmere No 2 Limited*

Dormant company

England and Wales

Joules Clothing Shanghai Company Limited*

Overseas office

China

Joules USA Inc.*

Overseas trading entity

USA

Joules Clothing Limited*

Dormant company

England and Wales

Joules (Market Harborough) Limited*

Dormant company

England and Wales

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

80%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

On 26 May 2016, the company acquired 100% of the issued share capital of Joules Investments 

Holdings Limited. All the other entities detailed above have been in existence for the whole   

of the reporting period.

On 30th August 2016 the dormant entities; Wickmere No 1 Limited; Wickmere No 2 Limited;   

Joules Clothing Limited; and Joules (Market Harborough) Limited were struck off.

64    Note s to  the Conso lida te d Fin a nc ia l  State m en ts   

10 and 11.

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

INTANGIBLES

LEASEHOLD  
IMPROVEMENTS
£’00 0

FIXT UR ES 
AN D  FITT IN G S
£ ’00 0

MOTO R 
VEHIC L ES
£ ’00 0

TOTA L
£ ’00 0

IT  S Y STEMS
£ ’00 0

COST

At 25 May 2014

Additions

At 31 May 2015

At 1 June 2015

Additions

Disposals

At 29 May 2016

ACCUMULATED DEPRECIATION/

AMORTISATION

At 25 May 2014

Charge for the period

Impairment

At 31 May 2015

At 1 June 2015

Charge for the period

Disposals

Impairment

At 29 May 2016

NET BOOK VALUE

At 25 May 2014

At 31 May 2015

At 29 May 2016

155

-

155

155

-

(55)

100

111

8

-

119

119

5

(55)

-

69

44

36

31

21,370

5,391

26,761

26,761

4,589

(8,570)

22,780

10,658

4,203

500

15,361

15,361

4,504

514

16

530

530

-

(404)

126

477

31

-

508

508

7

22,039

5,407

27,446

27,446

4,589

(9,029)

23,006

11,246

4,242

500

15,988

15,988

4,516

(8,570)

(404)

(9,029)

380

11,675

10,712

11,400

11,105

-

111

37

22

15

380

11,855

10,793

11,458

11,151

Property, Plant and Equipment and Intangibles

During the period the Directors conducted a detailed review of the Group’s f ixed assets, as 

a result of this review £9,044,000 (£8,370,000 of Property, Plant and Equipment; £674,000 of 

Intangibles) of nil book value items which were no longer in existence or use as at the balance 

sheet date were identif ied, these have been recorded as a disposal above.

TOTA L
£’000

2,544

3,385

5,929

5,929

2,498

(674)

7,753

959

554

-

1,513

1,513

1,011

(674)

-

2,544

3,385

5,929

5,929

2,498

(674)

7,753

959

554

-

1,513

1,513

1,011

(674)

-

1,850

1,850

1,585

4,416

5,903

1,585

4,416

5,903

12.

INVENTORIES

Goods for resale

Goods in transit 

Note s to  the  Co nso lidat ed Fin an ci al  St at em e nts    65

2 9 MAY  2 01 6
£ ’00 0

3 1 MAY  2015
£’000

14,594

4,659 

 19,253

15,767

1,885

17,652

There is no material difference between the balance sheet value of stocks and their replacement cost. 

The cost of inventories recognised as an expense during the year in respect of continuing operations 

in the 52 weeks ended 29 May 2016 was £51,572,000 (53 weeks ended 31 May 2015: £46,842,000).

The cost of inventories recognised as an expense includes £196,000 for the 52 weeks ended 29 May 

2016 (53 weeks ended 31 May 2015: £342,000) in respect of write-downs of inventory to net realisable 

value. During the period £33,000 (53 weeks ended 31 May 2015: £349,000) of stock previously provided 

for was sold and the provision was therefore released. 

Product is purchased on a seasonal basis with the intention of selling that stock within 12 months   

of the balance sheet date. Any aged stock is appropriately provided. 

13.

OTHER FINANCIAL ASSETS/(LIABILITIES)

2 9 MAY  2 01 6
£ ’00 0

3 1 MAY  2015
£’000

Derivatives designated and effective as hedging instruments carried at fair value:

Forward foreign currency contracts

474

500

Forward contracts and options

The Group enters into forward foreign exchange contracts and options to manage the risk associated with 

anticipated sale and purchase transactions which are denominated in foreign currencies.

As at 29 May 2016, the Group has 65 (May 2015: 35) forward foreign exchange contracts outstanding. 

Derivative financial instruments are carried at fair value. 

The following table details the USD foreign currency contracts outstanding as at the balance sheet date.

(a)  Average exchange £/$ rate

2 9 MAY  2 01 6

3 1 MAY  2015

3 months or less 

3 to 6 months

6 to 12 months

Over 12 months

(b)  Contract value

3 months or less 

3 to 6 months

6 to 12 months

Over 12 months

(c)  Foreign currency

3 months or less 

3 to 6 months

6 to 12 months

Over 12 months

1.5394

1.4764

1.4430

-

1.5597

1.5281

1.5354

-

2 9 MAY  2 01 6
£ ’00 0

3 1 MAY  2015
£’000

8,960

13,524

19,908

-

3,751

8,837

18,466

-

42,392

31,054

2 9 MAY  2 01 6
$ ’00 0

3 1 MAY  2015
$’000

13,500

20,000

29,150

-

5,731

13,478

28,216

-

62,650

47,425 

66    Notes  to the Consolidat ed Fin anci al  St at em e nts   

13.

OTHER FINANCIAL ASSETS/(LIABILITIES) (Continued)

(d)  Fair value

3 months or less 

3 to 6 months

6 to 12 months

Over 12 months

2 9 MAY  2 01 6
£ ’00 0

3 1 MAY  2015
£’000

300

149

25

-

474

180

63

257

-

500 

The Company also holds two Euro to GBP forward options with a notional value of £3,000,000 

and fair value of £36,454 for 3 to 6 months and £41,521 for 6 to 12 months. 

14.

TRADE AND OTHER RECEIVABLES

Trade receivables – gross

Allowance for doubtful debts

Trade receivables – net

Other receivables

Prepayments

Total trade and other receivables

2 9 MAY  2 01 6
£ ’00 0

3 1 MAY  2015
£’000

2,915

(165)

2,750

824

7,282

10,856

2,601

(149)

2,452

706

6,998

10,156

All of the other receivables and prepayment balances above are deemed to be current; the 

disclosures below relate only to the trade receivables balance. The Directors review the 

recoverability of trade receivables on a regular basis and calculate the allowance for doubtful   

debts on both a specific, customer by customer basis and a general basis.

The Group has no significant concentration of credit risk, with exposure spread over a large number 

of counterparties and customers. Accordingly the directors believe that there is no further credit 

provision risk required in excess of the allowance for doubtful debts. 

Included within the Group’s trade receivables (gross) balance are debtors with a carrying value 

of £1,020,000 (2015: £766,000) which are past due at the reporting date for which the Group has 

not provided as there has not been a significant change in credit quality and the amounts are still 

considered recoverable. 

Ageing of past due trade receivables

1-30 days 

31-60 days 

60-90 days 

90+ days 

Total past due trade receivables   

Current 

Total trade receivables

Movement in the allowance for doubtful debts

Balance at beginning of period

Bad debt write (back)/off

Movement in doubtful debt estimate

Balance at end of period

2 9 MAY  2 01 6
£ ’00 0

3 1 MAY  2015
£’000

706

357

97

25

1,185

1,730

2,915

149

119

(103)

165

534

295

86

-

915

1,686

2,601

38

276

(165)

149

Note s to  the  Cons olidate d Financia l  State m ent s    67

15.

TRADE AND OTHER PAYABLES

Trade payables

Other taxation and social security

Other payables

Accruals and deferred income

2 9 MAY  2 01 6
£ ’00 0

3 1 MAY  2015
£’000

15,353

1,069

1,159

10,338

27,919

9,337

792

1,717

6,870

18,716

Trade creditors and accruals principally comprise amounts outstanding for trade purchases and 

ongoing costs. 

The directors consider that the carrying amount of trade payables approximate to their fair value.

16.

PROVISIONS

Returns provision

Dilapidations

At 31 May 2015

Additional provision during the period

Reversal of provision during the period

Utilisation of provision

At 29 May 2016

Returns provision

2 9 MAY  2 01 6
£ ’00 0

3 1 MAY  2015
£’000

506

267

773

DIL APIDAT ION S
£ ’00 0

R ETU RN S  
PR OV IS ION
£ ’00 0

415

-

(52)

(96)

267

172

544

-

(210)

506

172

415

587

TOTA L
£’000

587

544

(52)

(306)

773

Present obligations arising under sales returns are recognised and measured as provisions 

when it is probable that the Group will be required to settle the obligation under sales 

contracts. Returns provisions in existence at the balance sheet date are expected to be utilised 

within 12 months, the provision is recalculated at each balance sheet date taking into account 

recent sales and anticipated levels of returns.

Lease dilapidation

The Group recognises present obligations arising from lease contracts where it is required to 

restore the stores to their pre-lease condition upon the expiry of leases. Lease dilapidations 

provisions are expected to be utilised between 0-3 years in line with the expiry of the leases.

68    Note s to  the Conso lida te d Fin a nc ia l  State m en ts   

17.

BORROWINGS

Bank loans

Asset loans

Shareholder loan notes

Financing costs capitalised

Borrowings are repayable as follows:

Bank loans

Within one year

Asset loans

Within one year

Between one and two years

Between two and five years

Shareholder loan notes

Between two and five years 

After five years 

Financing costs capitalised

Total borrowings

Between one and two years

Between two and five years

After five years

Financing costs capitalised

On demand or within one year 

Summary of borrowing arrangements

2 9 MAY  2 01 6
£ ’00 0

3 1 MAY  2015
£’000

5,009

1,079

-

-

7,068

1,566

43,699

(877)

6,088

51,456

5,009

7,068

452

333

294

561

490

515

1,079

1,566

-

-

-

-

-

333

294

-

-

627

5,461

6,088

17,480

26,219

43,699

(877)

42,822

490

17,995

26,219

(877)

43,827

7,629

51,456

The Bank Loan is a Revolving Credit Facility in which amounts drawn down are generally 

repayable within three months. The facility matures in May 2020. The asset loans are secured 

against the assets to which they relate. Interest is paid at varying rates above base rate. 

The shareholder loan notes were issued in November 2013 and were repayable in equal amounts 

representing 20% of the outstanding balance annually from 31 October 2018 for a period of   

5 years. Interest accrued annually at 11% and was added to the principal amount outstanding.   

The loan notes were settled in full on 26th May 2016 as a part of the IPO on admission to AIM.

The weighted average interest rates paid during the period were as follows:

Asset loans

Shareholder loan notes

Bank loans

5 2 W K S EN DED 
2 9 MAY  2 01 6
%

5 3 W K S E NDE D 
3 1 MAY  2015
%

7.4

11.0

3.0

8.9

11.0

3.0

Note s to  the  Cons olidate d Financia l  State m en ts    69

18.

FINANCIAL COMMITMENTS

Operating Lease Commitments

At the balance sheet date, the Group had outstanding commitments for   

future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases,   

which fall due as follows:

LAND & BUILDINGS

Leases expiring:   

Not later than 1 year 

Later than 1 year and not later than 5 years   

Later than 5 years

OTHER

Leases expiring:   

Not later than 1 year 

Later than 1 year and not later than 5 years   

Later than 5 years

19. 

 DEFERRED TAXATION

The following is the analysis of deferred tax assets/(liabilities)   

presented in the consolidated statement of f inancial position:

Difference between depreciation and capital allowances

Balance brought forward

(Charge)/credit to income statement

Balance at end of period

Other short term timing differences

Balance brought forward

(Charge)/credit to income statement

(Charge)/credit to other comprehensive income

Balance at end of period

Total deferred tax asset at end of period

Movement 

Balance brought forward

(Charge)/credit to income statement (note 8)

(Charge)/credit to other comprehensive income (note 8)

Balance at end of period

There is no unprovided deferred tax in either the current or prior period for the Group   

(May 2015: £nil). The deferred tax asset recognised in the current period is expected   

to be utilised against future taxable prof its. 

2 9 MAY  2 01 6
£ ’00 0

3 1 MAY  2015
£’000

8,040

27,881

17,550

53,471

7,996

26,497

16,975

51,468

2 9 MAY  2 01 6
£ ’00 0

3 1 MAY  2015
£’000

333

359

-

692

299

495

-

794

2 9 MAY  2 01 6
£ ’00 0

3 1 MAY  2015
£’000

535

169

704

268

(334)

15

(51)

653

803

(165)

15

653

572

(37)

535

661

51

(444)

268

803

1,233

14

(444)

803

70    Note s to  the Cons olidat ed Fin an ci al  St at em e nt s   

20.

CALLED UP SHARE CAPITAL

Allotted and issued

87,499,796 Ordinary shares of £0.01 each

2 9 MAY  2 01 6
£ ’00 0

3 1 MAY  2015
£’000

875

91,510

The company was incorporated on 1 May 2016. The acquisition of Joules Investments Holdings 

Limited by Joules Group plc on 26 May 2016 has been accounted for using reverse acquisition 

accounting principles. The effect of using reverse acquisition accounting principles on share 

capital is that the capital that existed as at the point Joules Group plc legally acquired Joules 

Investments Holdings Limited is accounted for as if it had been in existence as at the comparative 

period end (31 May 2015) and as at the opening balance sheet date (25 May 2014).

The comparative period share capital therefore comprises the following transactions:

The company was incorporated on 1 May 2016, upon incorporation the company issued 1 Ordinary 

B share of £827.22 at par.

On 26 May 2016 the shareholders of Joules Investments Holdings Limited transferred their shares 

to Joules Group plc in exchange for new shares issued by Joules Group plc, the new shares issued 

by Joules Group plc mirrored the shares transferred by the previous shareholders of Joules 

Investments Holdings Limited.   

The share capital issued as part of this share for share exchange consisted of 138,188 shares of 

varying classes with a nominal value of £91,508,871. The varying classes were then converted   

to a single class of ordinary share in Joules Group plc. The company then had a share capital   

of 57,193,545 ordinary £1.60 shares, with a nominal value £91,509,672. 

The movements in the 52 week period to 29 May 2016, which are not accounted for using the 

reverse acquisition accounting principles, are as follows:

As part of this share for share exchange certain shareholders of Joules Investments Holdings 

Limited ultimately received cash for their shareholding in Joules Investments Holdings Limited, 

rather than receiving shares in Joules Group plc, these shares equated to 90,980 ordinary £1.60 

shares with a par value, and settlement value of £145,568. This is adjusted through the merger 

reserve as it is considered part of the consideration paid by Joules Group plc to acquire Joules 

Investments Holdings Limited.

On 26 May 2016 Joules Group plc issued 23,130,400 ordinary £1.60 shares, with a total nominal 

value of £37,008,644. The shares were issued in order to settle the existing loan notes which had 

a book and fair value of £37,008,644, excluding accrued interest. 

On 26 May 2016 Joules Group plc (when legally still ‘Joules Group Limited’) entered into a capital 

reduction, converting the 80,323,945 ordinary £1.60 shares into 80,323,945 ordinary £0.01 shares. 

The reduction in share capital of £127,715,102 was transferred to retained earnings.

On 26 May 2016 in an initial public offering Joules Group plc issued 7,175,851 ordinary £0.01 

shares at a price of £1.60, resulting in an increase in share capital of £71,758 and share premium 

of £11,409,603. 

All ordinary shares carry equal rights. 

Note s to  the  Co nso lidat ed Fin an ci al  St at em e nts    71

21.

OTHER RESERVES 

Share premium

The share premium reserve contains the premium arising on the issue of equity shares, net of   

issue expenses.

The share premium reserve contains the premium arising on the issue of equity shares, net of   

issue expenses incurred by the company. On 26 May 2016 in an initial public offering Joules Group 

plc issued 7,175,851 ordinary £0.01 shares at a price of £1.60, resulting in share premium   

of £11,409,603. 

Balance at 29 May 2016.

Retained earnings 

£ ’00 0

11,410

The movement on retained earnings is as set out in the consolidated statement of changes   

in equity. Retained earnings represent cumulative profits or losses, net of dividends and   

other adjustments.

Merger reserve

The movement on the merger reserve is as set out in the consolidated statement of changes   

in equity. 

The effect of reverse acquisition accounting on the merger reserve is that the share capital,   

share premium and other distributable reserves that existed in Joules Group plc (the company)   

as at the point Joules Group plc legally acquired Joules Investments Holdings Limited is 

accounted for as if it had been in existence as at the comparative period end (31 May 2015) and 

as at the opening balance sheet date (25 May 2014). The corresponding entry being the merger 

reserve so the overall net assets as at the comparative dates are not affected.

The movement on the merger reserve during the period arose due to c ertain shareholders of 

Joules Investments Holdings Limited transferring their shares to Joules Group plc in exchange 

for cash, with a settlement value, of £145,568. This is adjusted through the merger reserve as it 

is considered part of the consideration paid by Joules Group plc to acquire Joules Investments 

Holdings Limited.

72    Note s to  the Cons olidat ed Fin an ci al  St at em e nt s   

22.

HEDGING AND TRANSLATION RESERVE

Balance as at 31 May 2015

Gains/(losses) recognised in other comprehensive income

Income tax relating to gains/(losses) recognised in other comprehensive income

Balance as at 29 May 2016

Hedging reserve

The reserve represents the cumulative gains and losses on hedging instruments in cash f low 

hedges. The cumulative deferred gain or loss on the hedging instrument is recognised in profit 

or loss only when the hedge transaction impacts the profit or loss or is included as a basis 

adjustment to the non-financial hedged item, consistent with the applicable accounting policy.

Translation reserve

Exchange differences relating to the translation of the net asset of the Group’s foreign 

operations which relate to subsidiaries only, from their functional currency into the Group’s 

presentational currency being Sterling, are recognised directly to the translation reserve. 

HEDG IN G  
R ESER V E
£ ’00 0

T RA N SLATI ON  
R ES ER VE
£’000

400

(26)

15

389

(24)

(48)

-

(72)

23.

RECONCILIATION OF NET CASH FLOW TO MOVEMENT IN NET DEBT

2 9 MAY  2 01 6
£ ’00 0

3 1 MAY  2015
£’000

Increase/(decrease) in cash in the period

Cash f low from movement in debt 

Change in net debt resulting from cash f lows

Non cash interest on loan notes 

Non cash movement on amortised deal fees of loan notes

Non cash settlement on loan notes

Net debt at start of the year

Net debt at end of year

24.

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

Cash and cash at bank

7,157

13,913

21,070

(4,676)

(878)

37,009

(49,335)

3,190

(2,126)

(656)

(2,782)

(4,399)

(363)

-

(41,791)

(49,335)

2 9 MAY  2 01 6
£ ’00 0

3 1 MAY  2015
£’000

9,278

2,121

25.

ANALYSIS OF NET DEBT

AT 31 MAY  2 01 5
£ ’00 0

N ON - C A SH C HA NG ES
£ 00 0

C ASH FLOW
£ ’00 0

AT  2 9 MAY  2016
£ ’000

Cash at bank and in hand

Bank loans

Asset loan

Loan notes

Total

2,121

(7,068)

(1,566)

(42,822)

(49,335)

-

-

-

31,455

31,455

7,157

2,059

487

11,367

21,070

9,278

(5,009)

(1,079)

-

3,190

Note s to  the  Co nso lidat ed Fin an ci al  St at em e nts    73

26.

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Categories of financial instruments

Carrying value of financial assets:

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other receivables

Loans and receivables at amortised cost

Derivative financial instruments

Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss

Total financial assets

Carrying value of financial liabilities:

Trade creditors

Other payables

Borrowings

Financial liabilities at fair value through profit and loss

Derivative instruments in designated hedge accounting relationships

Total financial liabilities 

Interest rate sensitivity analysis

2 9 MAY  2 01 6
£ ’00 0

3 1 MAY  2015
£’000

9,278

10,856

20,134

-

474

20,608

-

20,608

(15,353)

(12,566)

(6,088)

(34,007)

-

2,121

10,156

12,277

-

500

12,777

-

12,777

(9,337)

(9,379)

(51,456)

(70,172)

-

(34,007)

(70,172)

-

-

(34,007)

(70,172)

If interest rates on all borrowings had been 1% higher/lower and all other variables were held 

constant, the Group’s prof it for the period ended 52 weeks to 29 May 2016 would decrease/increase 

by £57,000 (May 2015: £82,000).

This has been calculated by applying the amended interest rate to the weighted average rate of 

borrowings for the period to 29 May 2016, other than borrowings which are held at a f ixed interest 

rate as those borrowings are not sensitive to external variables, such as movement in interest rates.

Foreign currency sensitivity analysis

The Group is mainly exposed to f luctuations in the US $, which is used for stock purchases.   

If the US $ exchange rate, on average through the period, weakened/strengthened by 10 percent 

and all other variables were held constant, the Group’s prof it for the period ended 52 weeks to 

29 May 2016 would increase/decrease by £369,000 and £451,000 respectively (2015: £244,000 and 

£200,000). This has been calculated by applying the amended currency rate to the US $ value 

of f inancial assets and f inancial liabilities held at the period end, an amended rate has not been 

applied to US $ purchases in the period as they have been effectively hedged against currency 

f luctuations via forward contracts.

Maturity of financial liabilities

The maturity of borrowings is included in note 17. All other f inancial liabilities are expected to 

mature within six months of the year-end. 

Carrying value of financial assets

The Directors have assessed that, on the basis of the net assets of the owing companies, the 

intercompany receivables are fully recoverable. As noted in note 14 the Directors do not believe   

any of the trade receivables to be impaired. A signif icant decrease in the net assets and trade   

of the owing company or a decline in the f inancial position of customers would trigger an 

impairment review. 

Credit risk

In the opinion of the Directors, the only f inancial instrument that is subject to credit risk is 

the trade receivables. The Directors believe that the bad debt provision as disclosed in note 14 

represents the Directors’ best estimate of the maximum exposure to credit risk at period-end. 

74    Note s to  the Conso lida te d Fin a nc ia l  State m en ts   

26.

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (continued)

Fair value of financial instruments

Financial Instruments are measured in accordance with the accounting policy set out in note 1. 

All Financial Instruments are considered to be Level 3 with the exception of foreign currency 

forward contracts and options which are considered Level 2. In the opinion of the Directors, the 

fair value of the f inancial assets and liabilities are equal to their book values. 

Liquidity risk management

The Directors believe that the receivables are not impaired and that the owing companies have 

suff icient net assets to repay the balances. Therefore the Directors believe that liquidity risk is 

minimal.

Capital risk management 

The Directors maintain detailed cash forecasts which are frequently revised to actuals to ensure 

that the Group has suff icient liquid resources to meet its requirements. 

Foreign currency financial assets and liabilities

Included within the above table are £4,116,000 (2015: £1,507,000) of assets and £1,903,458 (2015: 

£588,000) of liabilities relating to the overseas subsidiaries which have been translated in the 

consolidation at the period-end rate. These balances are subject to movements in exchange rates, 

as shown in the statement of changes in equity. The Directors do not believe the risk is signif icant 

enough to warrant hedging against the investments in overseas companies.

Also included within the above table are foreign currency denominated external trade payables 

and receivables of £1,300,565 (2015: £3,339,000) and £903,916 (2015: £496,000) respectively. The 

Group mitigates a signif icant amount of the exchange rate risk via purchases of forward foreign 

currency contracts. 

27.

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Transactions between the company and its subsidiaries, which are related parties, have been 

eliminated on consolidation.

The Directors and key management control 31,011,102 shares in Joules Group plc, which 

represents 35.44% of the issued share capital. Key management and directors remuneration is 

disclosed in note 4. In addition directors and key management participate in a share scheme, 

further details of which can be found in note 30.

28.

CONTROLLING PARTY

In the opinion of the Directors there is no ultimate controlling party.

29.

EARNINGS PER SHARE

Basic and diluted earnings per share are calculated by dividing prof it or loss attributable to 

ordinary equity holders by the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue during the 

period.

The acquisition of Joules Investments Holdings Limited by Joules Group plc on 26 May 2016 has 

been accounted for using reverse acquisition accounting principles. The effect of using reverse 

acquisition accounting principles on share capital is that the capital that existed as at the point 

Joules Group plc legally acquired Joules Investments Holdings Limited is accounted for as if it had 

been in existence as at the comparative period end (31 May 2015) and as at the opening balance 

sheet date (25 May 2014).

The weighted average number of shares in issue for the current and prior year has therefore been 

stated to ref lect the post IPO share capital structure, this adjustment assumes the total shares 

issued during the IPO were in issue throughout the whole of the current and previous period 

presented. 

For the calculation of diluted earnings per share, the weighted average number of shares   

in issue is further adjusted to assume conversion of all potentially dilutive ordinary shares.   

The Company has one category of potentially dilutive ordinary shares, being management shares 

not yet vested. 

Note s to  the  Cons olidate d Financia l  State m ent s    75

29.

EARNINGS PER SHARE (continued)

Basic earnings/(loss) per share (pence)

Diluted earnings/(loss) per share (pence)

5 2 W EEKS 
EN DED 2 9  MAY 
2 01 6

5 3 WEE KS 
EN DED 3 1  MAY
2015

(2.04)

(2.04)

(0.50)

(0.50)

The calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share is based on the following data:

Earnings

Earnings for the purpose of basic and diluted earnings per share, being the net loss

Earnings for the purpose of basic earnings per share

Number of shares

5 2 W EEKS 
EN DED 2 9  MAY 
2 01 6  £ ’0 00

5 3  WE EK S 
EN DED 3 1  MAY
2 01 5 £’ 000

(1,793)

(1,793)

(440)

(440)

5 2 W EEKS 
EN DED 2 9  MAY 
2 01 6

5 3 WEE KS 
EN DED 31  MAY
2015

Weighted number of ordinary shares for the purpose of basic earnings per share

87,499,796

87,499,796

Potentially dilutive share awards

446,875

446,875

Weighted number of ordinary shares for the purpose of diluted earnings per share

87,946,671

87,946,671

30.

 SHARE BASED PAYMENTS

Equity-settled share option scheme 

The Group operated a share option scheme during the period for certain employees under the 

Executive Share Option Plan. All the options vest after 2 years and have a maximum exercise 

life of 10 years from grant date. All option schemes are subject to continued employment over 

the vesting period. 

The fair value of the shares were determined by using the Black Scholes Model. The options 

were granted at the time of the IPO admission and inputs into the option pricing model, 

including share price on the date of grant, expected volatility and expected dividends were 

determined post listing therefore taking into account the AIM listed status of the Company. 

Expected volatility was determined by management, using comparator volatility as a basis.   

The expected life of the options was determined based on management’s best estimate.   

The expected dividend yield was based on the anticipated dividend policy of the Company   

over the expected life of the options. The risk free rate of return input into the model was   

a zero coupon government bonds with a life in line with the expected life of the options.

The fair value of the total shares issued during the period, and measured as at issue date is £203,486.

No charge has been recognised in the income statement and no liability recognised in the 

statement of f inancial position in respect of these options for the 3 days they were   

in existence during the period.

Details of the share options outstanding as at the balance sheet dates as are follows:

5 2 W EEKS  EN DED 29  MAY  20 1 6

5 3 W EEKS  EN DED 31  MAY  2015

N UMBER OF 
S HAR E 
OPT ION S

WEIG HT ED 
AV ERAG E 
EXER CI SE PR IC E
( £)

N UMBER OF 
S HAR E 
OPT ION S

WEIG HTE D 
AVER AGE 
EXER C ISE  PRI CE
(£)

Outstanding at the beginning of the period

Granted during the period

Lapsed during the period

Exercised during the period

Outstanding at the end of the period

Exercisable at the end of the period

-

446,875

-

-

446,875

-

-

1.60

-

-

1.60

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

76    Comp any Balance Sheet  and Co m pan y  St at em e nt  o f  Changes  in  Equ ity

C O M P A N Y   B A L A N C E   S H E E T

J O U L E S   G R O U P   P L C

FIXED ASSETS

Investments

CURRENT ASSETS

Debtors

NET CURRENT ASSETS AND NET ASSETS

CAPITAL AND RESERVES

Called up share capital

Share premium

Profit and loss account

SHAREHOLDERS’ FUNDS

29 MAY 2016 

NOTE

£’000

2

3

4

5

139,980

1

139,981

875

11,410

127,696

139,981

These financial statements of Joules Group plc (Company Registration Number 10164829)   

were approved by the Board of Directors and authorised for issue on 5 September 2016 and were 

signed on behalf of the Board of Directors by -

MARC DENCH 

Chief Financial Officer

5 September 2016

C O M P A N Y   S T A T E M E N T   O F   C H A N G E S   I N   E Q U I T Y

J O U L E S   G R O U P   P L C

Upon incorporation 

Share issue (note 4)

Share issue (note 4)

Share issue (note 4)

Capital reduction (note 4)

Share issue (note 4)

Loss for the period

Balance at 29 May 2016

SHAR E 
C APITA L
£ ’00 0

-

1

91,509

37,009

(127,715)

71

-

875

SHAR E 
PR EMIUM
£ ’00 0

R ETAIN ED 
EAR N IN GS
£ ’00 0

-

-

-

-

11,410

-

11,410

-

-

-

127,715

-

(19)

TOTA L
 EQUI TY
£’000

-

1

91,509

37,009

-

11,481

(19)

127,696

139,981

78    Note s to  the Compan y Fina nc ia l  S tate m en ts

N O T E S   T O   T H E   C O M P A N Y   
F I N A N C I A L  S T A T E M E N T S

J O U L E S   G R O U P   P L C

1.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of Preparation

The Company was incorporated on 1 May 2016, the f irst period of account is therefore the   

29 days ending 29 May 2016. These separate f inancial statements of Joules Group plc have been 

prepared in accordance with Financial Reporting Standard 101, Reduced Disclosure Framework 

(FRS 101). 

The Company’s f inancial statements are presented in GBP. 

In preparing these f inancial statements the company has taken advantage of all disclosure 

exemptions conferred by FRS 101. Therefore these f inancial statements do not include:

• 

• 

• 

• 

a statement of cash f lows;

the effect of future accounting standards not yet adopted;

the disclosure of the remuneration of key management personnel; and

disclosure of related party transactions with wholly owned fellow group companies

In addition, and in accordance with FRS 101 further disclosure exemptions have been adopted 

because equivalent disclosures are included in the consolidated f inancial statements of   

Joules Group plc. These f inancial statements do not include certain disclosures in respect of:

• 

• 

• 

share based payments;

business combinations;

f inancial instruments (other than certain disclosures required as a result of recording 

f inancial instruments at fair value);

• 

fair value measurement (other than certain disclosures required as a result of recording 

f inancial instruments at fair value).

As permitted by section 408 of the Companies Act 2006, the prof it and loss account is not 

presented. The loss for the year amounted to £19,400.

The f inancial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention.   

The principal accounting policies adopted are the same as those set out in note 1 to the 

consolidated f inancial statements except as set out below.

Investments

Fixed asset investments are stated at cost less provisions for diminution in value.

Going Concern

Going concern for the company has been considered along with the group by the directors. The 

consideration is set out in note 1 of the consolidated f inancial statements.

Note s to  the  Co mpan y Financial  St at em e nts    79

2.

INVESTMENTS

Cost and Net Book Value 

At 29 May 2016

£ ’00 0

139,980

On 26 May 2016 Joules Group plc acquired the entire share capital in Joules Investments 

Holdings Limited. 

Joules Group plc acquired Joules Investments Holdings Limited as set out below:

• 

On 26 May 2016 certain shareholders of Joules Investments Holdings Limited transferred 

their shares to Joules Group plc in exchange for 57,193,545 ordinary £1.60 shares,   

with a nominal value £91,509,672.

• 

On 26 May 2016 certain shareholders of Joules Investments Holdings Limited   

transferred their shares to Joules Group plc in exchange for cash, with a settlement   

value, of £145,568.

• 

On 26 May 2016 Joules Group plc issued 23,130,400 ordinary £1.60 shares, with a total 

nominal value of £37,008,644. The shares were issued in order to settle the existing loan 

notes which had a book and fair value of £37,008,644. In substance this forms part of the 

cost of the investment in Joules Investments Holdings Limited, free of shareholder loan 

note debt.

• 

On 26 May 2016 Joules Group plc used the funds generated from the initial public offering 

to settle the shareholder loan note debt in Joules Group plc of £11,316,364. In substance 

this is part of the cost of the investment in Joules Investments Holdings Limited, free of 

shareholder loan note debt.

The company subsidiaries, as at the period end are shown in note 9 of the consolidated 

f inancial statements. All subsidiaries have been in existence for the whole of the   

reporting period.

3.

DEBTORS

Other debtors

4.

CALLED UP SHARE CAPITAL

Allotted and issued

87,499,796 Ordinary shares of £0.01 each

2 9 MAY  2 01 6
£ ’00 0

1

2 9 MAY  2 01 6
£ ’00 0

875

The company was incorporated on 1 May 2016, upon incorporation the company issued   

1 Ordinary B share of £827.22 at par.

On 26 May 2016 the shareholders of Joules Investments Holdings Limited transferred their 

shares to Joules Group plc in exchange for new shares issued by Joules Group plc, the 

new shares issued by Joules Group plc mirrored the shares transferred by the previous 

shareholders of Joules Investments Holdings Limited.

The share capital issued as part of this share for share exchange consisted of 138,188 shares   

of varying classes with a nominal value of £91,508,871. The varying classes were then converted 

to a single class of ordinary share in Joules Group plc. The Company then had   

a share capital of 57,193,545 ordinary £1.60 shares, with a nominal value £91,509,672.

80    Note s to  the Compa ny F ina nc ia l  St at em e nt s

4.

CALLED UP SHARE CAPITAL (Continued)

On 26 May 2016 Joules Group plc issued 23,130,400 ordinary £1.60 shares, with a total nominal 

value of £37,008,644. The shares were issued in order to settle the existing loan notes which   

had a book and fair value of £37,008,644. 

On 26 May 2016 Joules Group plc (when legally still Joules Group Limited) entered into a   

capital reduction, converting the 80,323,945 ordinary £1.60 shares into 80,323,945 ordinary   

£0.01 shares. The reduction in share capital of £127,715,102 was transferred to retained earnings.

On 26 May 2016 in an initial public offering Joules Group plc issued 7,175,851 ordinary   

£0.01 shares at a price of £1.60, resulting in an increase in share capital of £71,758 and   

share premium of £11,409,603. 

All ordinary shares carry equal rights.

5.

SHARE PREMIUM 

The share premium reserve contains the premium arising on the issue of equity shares,   

net of issue expenses incurred by the company. On 26 May 2016 in an initial public offering   

Joules Group plc issued 7,175,851 ordinary £0.01 shares at a price of £1.60, resulting in share 

premium of £11,409,603. 

Balance at 29 May 2016

6.

SHARE BASED PAYMENTS

£ ’00 0

11,410

Details of the share options in existence are shown in note 30 of the consolidated   

f inancial statements.

7.

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

The Company has taken advantage of the disclosure of related party transactions with wholly 

owned fellow group companies. Related party transactions with key management personnel 

(including Directors) are shown in note 27 of the Consolidated Financial Statements.

C O M P A N Y   I N F O R M A T I O N

J O U L E S   G R O U P   P L C

Comp an y Information    81

JOULES GROUP plc   

NOMINATED ADVISER & BROKER 

Registered in England and Wales number: 10164829

Peel Hunt LLP, Moor House, 

COMPANY SECRETARY 

Jonathan William Dargie

REGISTERED OFFICE

Joules Building, The Point, 

Rockingham Road, Market Harborough, 

Leicestershire, LE16 7QU

WEBSITE

w w w.joulesgroup.com

120 London Wall, 

London, EC2Y 5ET

BROKER 

Liberum Capital Limited 

Ropemaker Place, Level 12, 

25 Ropemaker Street, 

London, EC2Y 9LY

CORPOR ATE PR 

Hudson Sandler

29 Cloth Fair,

London, EC1A 7NN

LEGAL ADVISORS TO THE COMPANY

Eversheds LLP,

115 Colmore Row,

Birmingham, B3 3AL

AUDITOR 

Deloitte LLP,   

1 Woodborough Road,

Nottingham, NG1 3FG

REGISTR ARS 

Equiniti Limited, Aspect House,   

Spencer Road,   

Lancing, BN99 6DA