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Annual Report and Accounts
2014
Marshalls is the UK’s leading hard landscaping
manufacturer and has been supplying superior natural
stone and innovative concrete products to the construction,
home improvement and landscape markets since the 1890s.
As a market leader in its sector, the Group operates
quarries and manufacturing sites throughout the UK.
Marshalls is committed to quality in everything it does, including environmental
and ethical best practice and continues to improve health and safety performance
for the benefit of its 2,000 strong workforce.
2
At a glance page 2
8
Business model page 8
Strategic Report
Corporate Governance
Financial Statements
Shareholder Information
01
Financial highlights and
current priorities
02 At a Glance
04 Chairman's Statement
06
08
Chief Executive’s Statement
Business Model
32
Board of Directors and Secretary
70 Consolidated Income Statement
121 Shareholder Information
34 Corporate Governance Statement
71
Statement of Directors’
Responsibilities
Consolidated Statement
of Comprehensive Income
72 Consolidated Balance Sheet
Remuneration Committee Report
73
Remuneration Report
Consolidated Cash
Flow Statement
41
43
46
10 Operational Review
51 Annual Remuneration Report
Strategy
62 Audit Committee Report
Key Performance Indicators
65
Directors’ Report –
Other Regulatory Information
67
Independent Auditor’s Report
14
16
18
Risk Management and
Principal Risks
21 Corporate Responsibility
25
Financial Review
74
76
109
110
Consolidated Statement
of Changes in Equity
Notes to the Consolidated
Financial Statements
Parent Company Statement
of Comprehensive Income
Parent Company Statement
of Changes in Equity
112
Company Balance Sheet
113
119
Notes to the Company
Financial Statements
Financial History –
Consolidated Group
Front cover – Scoutmoor Yorkstone and Pave Drain, Holborn Circus, London
Above – Keyblok Charcoal, Platform Edge Tactile, Rail Coping Unit and Birco Lite Drainage Channel, London Bridge Station
Strategic report Financial highlights
— Good revenue growth of 17% to £358.5 million (2013: £307.4 million)
— Improvement in operating margins to 7.1%
— Strong profit before tax growth of 72% to £22.4 million
(2013: £13.0 million)
— Return on capital employed improved 54% (440 basis points)
to 12.5% (2013: 8.1%)
— EPS from continuing operations up 46% to 10.13 pence
(2013: 6.94 pence)
— Final dividend increased by 14% to 4.00 pence (2013: 3.50 pence)
per share
Current priorities
— To increase output to meet growing demand and to deliver benefits
from operational gearing
— To further strengthen the Marshalls brand by focusing on innovation,
service and new product development
— To grow our business both organically and selectively and, as
appropriate, through acquisitions
— To continue to develop and invest in our strategic growth initiatives,
particularly in Rail, Newbuild Housing, Water Management and
Street Furniture
— To develop and grow the International business profitably
14
Strategy
page 14
25
Financial Review
page 25
Revenue
£358.5m +17%
(2013: £307.4m)
Operating profit
£25.3m +57%
(2013: £16.1m)
Profit before tax
£22.4m +72%
(2013: £13.0m)
Return on capital employed
12.5% +54%
(2013: 8.1%)
EPS
10.13p +46%
(2013: 6.94p,
continuing operations)
Final dividend recommended
4.00p +14%
(2013: 3.50p)
Find out more online
www.marshalls.co.uk
Follow us on YouTube
MarshallsTV
Follow us on Twitter
@MarshallsGroup
Find us on Facebook
MarshallsGroup
Follow us on LinkedIn
Marshalls
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
01
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information At a Glance
Our business
Marshalls believes that the better our environment, the
better we can be, and strives to create products that improve
landscapes and create happier and healthier communities.
Est. 1890
2,000 employees
Expansion
We have been supplying superior natural
stone and innovative concrete products to
the construction, home improvement and
landscape markets since the 1890s.
Our success depends on our people.
Because of that, we are committed to the
highest health and safety measures for all
of our employees.
The Company continues to focus on
extending its global reach into Europe,
Asia, the Middle East and North America.
Our operations
Our customers and product ranges
The Group operates quarries and manufacturing sites
throughout the UK, with its national network of manufacturing
and distribution sites, and has operations in Belgium and
representation in other international markets including its
US sales office and its sourcing and quality office in China.
The UK business consists of a single integrated logistics
and distribution operation supplied by centrally managed
production units. We produce and deliver a range of
products that are sold into each end market area. The same
capital equipment produces products for both the Domestic
and the Public Sector and Commercial end markets and this
flexibility remains a key operational objective.
The structure gives flexibility in the development of
individual products under the Marshalls brand whilst
providing strategic focus through the integrated
national and centrally administered functions.
10
Read more in our
Operational Review on page 10
Marshalls is the market-leading supplier of hard landscaping
products to both the Domestic and Public Sector and
Commercial end markets. We are the complete external
landscaping, interior design, paving and flooring products
business – from planning and engineering, to guidance
and delivery.
Domestic
Customers: National and independent builders merchants,
DIY groups, professional landscapers, garden designers and
driveway installers
Products: Garden paving, driveways, garden paths,
kerbs and edging, garden accessories and garden walling
Public Sector and Commercial
Customers: Local authorities, commercial architects,
specifiers, contractors, house builders and builders merchants
Products: Block paving, natural stone, kerb, street furniture,
water management, traffic calming, walling and mortars
02
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Strategic Report Fairstone Sawn Versuro King Size
The Group has pioneered the ethical sourcing of natural stone
paving from India, China and Vietnam. Marshalls' "Fairstone"
products combine the attributes of fair trade and ethical sourcing
by incorporating regular independent supply chain audits.
Our global reach
Our achievements
The Group has a unique national network of manufacturing
and distribution sites and has a wide geographical spread.
An expanding geographic coverage continues to enable
Marshalls to be close to its customers.
As well as quarrying and processing significant quantities of
British natural stone, Marshalls has major supplier partnerships
in India and China and also imports other specialist stone from
around the world. The Group continually seeks opportunities
to expand reserves and geographical coverage.
Marshalls has been voted a Business
Superbrand every year since 2010.
Superbrands is an annual initiative to identify
and celebrate Britain’s strongest consumer
and business-to-business brands.
Key areas of geographic focus:
Europe through Marshalls NV Belgium/France
North America through distribution agreements such
as Unilock and Stone Pavers
Middle East through special projects in the
UAE/Kuwait/Qatar
13
Read more about our
achievements on page 13
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
03
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Chairman’s Statement
Andrew Allner
Chairman
Our values
Marshalls is built on
four key values.
Demonstrating leadership.
We believe in driving the industry forward.
It is an ambition we've been acting on for
120 years.
Delivering excellence.
Our products have to be innovative,
our people have to be the best and
our workmanship has to be perfect.
Building trust.
Everyone at Marshalls acts with integrity,
treating customers and their projects with
care and respect.
Being sustainable.
We use the world to source our products,
so we have a responsibility to look after it.
04
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Overview
I am pleased to report that 2014 has been a good year for your Company
and that 2015 has started well. We have seen a significant improvement
in revenue and profitability as the Group has taken full advantage of the
more favourable market conditions. The new Executive team is now fully
established and we have a clear strategy. Furthermore the Construction
Products Association (“CPA”) has continued to strengthen its forecasts
during the last year and the Government’s positive announcements
on infrastructure projects should also provide further opportunity for
growth. Our primary objective remains to improve the profitability
of all our businesses and to deliver sustainable shareholder value.
Results
I am delighted to report that Marshalls’ revenue is up 17 per cent
to £359 million and profit before tax is up 72 per cent to £22.4.
The Group’s earnings per share at 10.13 pence is up 46 per cent.
Dividends
We recognise the importance of dividends to our shareholders. The Group
has a progressive dividend policy with the objective of achieving up to
2 times dividend cover over the business cycle. As earnings increase we
plan to share the increase between strengthening cover and progressively
raising the rate of dividend. Accordingly the Board is recommending a final
dividend of 4.00 pence (2013: 3.50 pence) per share which, together with
the interim dividend of 2.00 pence (2013: 1.75 pence ) per share, makes
a combined dividend of 6.00 pence (2013: 5.25 pence ) per share. This
represents dividend cover of 1.7 times (2013: 1.3 times) and an increase
in the total dividend for the year of 14 per cent.
Strategy
As your Chairman, it is my responsibility to lead and manage the
Board in its key task of debating and formulating strategy.
The Marshalls brand remains central and the Group has again
received “Superbrand” status for 2015. Marshalls is a benchmark
for excellence in the industry and the 3 cornerstone themes
of customer service, quality and sustainability remain essential to
the brand and put the customer at the very heart of our business.
Strategic Report Board changes
The transition of the senior executive team is now complete. Martyn
Coffey is firmly established as Chief Executive. Jack Clarke became
Group Finance Director on 1 October 2014, joining us from AMEC plc,
where he was Executive Vice President and Director of Change
Management. He is already making a difference and bringing a more
operationally focused approach to the finance function.
Both David Sarti and Ian Burrell retired from the Board during the year.
I would like to thank them both for their significant contributions to
Marshalls over many years and for their support in ensuring a smooth
transition to the new team.
People
Marshalls’ success is critically dependent on the positive interaction
between the Group’s employees, customers, suppliers and other
stakeholders. We have an outstanding group of employees and,
on behalf of the Board, I would like to thank all of them for their
hard work, professionalism, and ongoing support and commitment
to Marshalls.
Outlook
2015 has started well. We are planning for good further progress in
2015 against a background of continuing favourable market conditions.
Andrew Allner
Chairman
Continual innovation is a key focus and it has been particularly
encouraging to see the success of new products in areas such
as drainage and water management and rail.
A full explanation of our strategic objectives is set out in our
Strategy Report on pages 14 and 15.
Governance
I and the Board are committed to promoting the highest standards
of corporate governance and ensuring effective communication
with shareholders.
This year’s Annual Report has a fresh new feel and incorporates
a number of features to make it easier to read and understand.
We hope this will provide shareholders with a clearer picture of
the Group’s business model, its objectives and key strategic themes
and will ensure a fair, balanced and understandable assessment
of the Group’s position and prospects.
Board development is a constant priority and we continue to
challenge the effectiveness of the Board against detailed and
continually developing performance criteria. In my report last year
I set out a number of specific Board actions for 2014 including
diversity in the context of Board succession planning, enhanced
Board reporting and creation of opportunities to add value from
the experience and expertise of the Non-Executive Directors.
I am pleased to report good progress against all these actions.
In particular, we have agreed a framework for succession planning
for the Non-Executive Directors, including the Chairman, over the
next few years. The first step of this plan is the appointment of
a new female Non-Executive Director and we hope to make an
announcement on this shortly.
During the year, a detailed internal evaluation of Board performance was
again carried out by the Company Secretary. The review sought to improve
the effectiveness of the Board as a whole and of individual Directors.
We have worked hard at Marshalls to ensure that the Board culture is open
and transparent and that there are no restrictions or pressures on Board
members which result in views or opinions not being expressed. Against
this background I believe an internal review works well.
I am pleased to report that no areas of material concern were highlighted
from this evaluation though, of course, a number of new areas were
identified for improvement during 2015. These include allowing time
for deeper debate on strategic issues, increasing focus on dynamic risk
reporting, identifying particular business areas for closer review and
increasing opportunities for Non-Executive Directors to meet senior
management below Board level through an extended programme of site
visits. I also plan to increase my own contact with shareholders to ensure
that shareholder views continue to be fully understood. I will report on
progress against these initiatives next year.
I am also pleased that, under our Remuneration Policy, management
receives a large proportion of their remuneration in shares which must
be retained for up to 5 years. This ensures a strong alignment between
the interests of management and our shareholders.
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
05
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Chief Executive’s Statement
Martyn Coffey
Chief Executive
Summary
The Group’s current priorities are:
Increase output.
To increase output to meet growing
demand and to deliver benefits from
operational gearing.
Grow our business.
To grow our business both organically and
selectively through acquisitions.
Further strengthen.
To further strengthen the Marshalls brand,
focusing on innovation, service and new
product development.
Continue to develop.
To continue to develop and invest in our
strategic growth initiatives.
Develop and grow.
To develop and grow the International
business profitably.
06
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Introduction
2014 has been a strong year for Marshalls with significant revenue
and profit growth. Trading conditions remain positive and the Group
continues to experience strong order intake and sales growth in all its
end markets. Marshalls’ operating flexibility has enabled manufacturing
output to be increased without significant increase in the Group’s cost
base and this is delivering benefits from our operational gearing. The
Group’s underlying operating margin has increased from 5.2 per cent to
7.6 per cent during the year and volume growth of 13 per cent in 2014
has been significantly ahead of CPA market forecasts.
Marshalls is a leading, trusted brand with a strong market position and
maintains clear values and excellent sustainability and environmental
credentials. The Group has maintained its national geographic coverage
and retains lowest cost to market and industry-leading customer service.
I am particularly pleased to report that there has been a significant
performance improvement in our smaller UK businesses during
2014 and they have collectively delivered volume revenue growth of
£9.3 million and related profit growth of £2.7 million. These businesses
include Street Furniture, Mineral Products and Stone Cladding. Stone
Cladding is a particular growth area and Marshalls has been supplying
stone for a prestigious office building in the City of London.
Jack Clarke joined Marshalls as Group Finance Director on
1 October 2014. Most recently, Jack has been Executive Vice President
and Director of Change Management at AMEC plc, having previously
served as CFO of AMEC’s £850 million power and process division and
its US$1.5 billion environment and infrastructure division. His extensive
experience is already contributing to the Board and the Executive.
2014 trading summary
Marshalls' revenue, from continuing operations, for the year
ended 31 December 2014 was up 17 per cent at £358.5 million
(2013: £307.4 million). Revenue for the six months ended
31 December 2014 was up 18 per cent compared with the
second half of 2013. This continued growth in the second half
has been seen in the Public Sector and Commercial and also
the Domestic end markets.
Strategic Report The strategic focus is
now firmly on growth.
Continued emphasis is being placed on innovation
and growth initiatives and the further development of
the Marshalls brand across all the Group's businesses.
Sales to the Public Sector and Commercial end market, which represent
approximately 64 per cent of Group sales, were up 20 per cent for the
year, on a continuing basis, compared with 2013.
Sales to the UK Domestic end market, which represent approximately
30 per cent of Group sales, were up 9 per cent compared with the prior
year. The survey of domestic installers at the end of February 2015
revealed order books of 9.0 weeks (2014: 9.3 weeks).
International revenue grew by 27 per cent during 2014 and is
now 6 per cent of Group sales. Activity levels in Belgium have been
encouraging despite the subdued market background in mainland
Europe. During the second half we have acted to ensure that the
operations in Belgium are better aligned with market opportunities
and this has resulted in a charge of £2 million in relation to the
restructuring of Marshalls NV.
Operating profit from continuing operations was £25.3 million
(2013: £16.1 million). EBITDA from continuing operations was
£38.5 million (2013: £30.2 million).
Basic EPS from continuing operations was 10.13 pence (2013: 6.94 pence),
an increase of 46 per cent. Reported EPS from total operations was
10.13 pence (2013: 7.20 pence).
Current priorities
The Group has a number of current priorities that will grow and develop
the business this year and into the future. The current focus for Marshalls
is to maximise the benefits from the improved market conditions in order
to generate volume growth and benefit from operational gearing. We
have already seen operating margins improve during 2014 and a key
objective will be to deliver further improvement in profit margins in all
businesses and end markets. We continue to experience strong growth
in a number of key areas, for example, Rail, Newbuild Housing, Water
Management and Street Furniture.
The key priorities remain service, quality, design, innovation and
a commitment to research and development, sustainability and
an integrated product offer. The Group’s key strategic initiatives are
set out in detail in the Strategic Report on pages 14 and 15.
Health and safety is a key priority and Marshalls remains committed
to improving the quality and safety of the working environment by
maintaining the highest health and safety standards. During 2014
there was a 30 per cent reduction in days lost from workplace incidents,
which is comfortably ahead of the Group’s headline target of 10 per cent.
The Group is well positioned to grow both organically and through
acquisition. We will put increasing focus on our growth objectives in 2015
and 2016.
Marshalls continues to have customer service as a key KPI and
maintains industry leading standards of product quality, availability
and “on time” delivery. The combined customer service measure
continued to be in excess of 97 per cent throughout 2014.
The Group has continued to focus on innovation and new product
development to drive sales growth in areas of particular opportunity
and to further strengthen and differentiate the Marshalls brand. The
Group intends to invest further resource over the medium term to
drive further innovation and new product development. One specific
area of opportunity is “intelligent street furniture,” which would see the
incorporation of new technology into street lighting systems and items
such as bollards and bins. The technology facilitates the communication
of information; for example, bins that can signal when they need
emptying and bollards that can inform pedestrians where to go.
Developing the International market is also a key priority and the Group will
continue to invest in its International structures in order to grow this part of
the business profitably and to develop opportunities to promote growth.
Martyn Coffey
Chief Executive
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
07
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Business Model
How we do business
Marshalls' principal goal is to create value through
creating better landscapes.
We place a strong emphasis on product innovation and service delivery initiatives.
We offer flexibility in our product mix, providing exceptional customer service
and manufacturing expertise. We are also driven by a commitment to our values
which, in turn, make us an industry leader when it comes to sustainable practices.
How we operate
Sourcing
Manufacture
Distribution
— International supply chain
— Centrally directed and locally
managed production units;
— Single integrated logistics
and distribution operation;
– natural sandstone, granite
and limestone from India,
China and Vietnam;
— UK sourcing of natural
stone and aggregates from own
quarries and third parties; and
— UK sourcing of other
raw materials.
The Group has extensive reserves
of UK natural stone and through its
ongoing commitment to the Ethical
Trading Initiative ("ETI") Base Code has
pioneered the ethical sourcing of natural
stone from India, China and Vietnam.
Operational gearing
— Operating assets produce for
— Own fleet with over 150 specialist
each “end market”;
vehicles; and
— Landscape, driveway and
garden products; and
— Horizontal and vertical
and external and internal.
The Group manufactures and
supplies landscape, driveway and
garden products from a range of
materials, being principally concrete
and natural stone. Marshalls has a
world class Manufacturing, Innovation
and Development team.
— National geographic coverage.
Due to the scale of our operations,
and our network of regional centres,
97 per cent of our customers
are less than 2 hours away.
This continues to be a key
competitive advantage.
As markets improve, there continues to be a real opportunity to benefit from improved
operational gearing derived from efficient sales and production levels and from the
lower cost base. Continued emphasis on value added products and improving product
availability should generate further improvements in operating margins.
6
Read more in the Chief Executive's
Statement on page 6
Innovation
Innovation remains a key element of the Group's business model both in terms
of new product development and through machinery design and installation.
Additional resources continue to be invested in research and development.
08
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Strategic Report How we add value
Creating better spaces through continual
innovation and product development.
Our brand
S ervice
Our
customers
Our brand
S
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Our customers are at the heart of our business. Our priority is to provide them
with high quality products, exceptional service and trust in our sustainable
practices. Reinforcing those core elements is the Marshalls brand, driven by
our strong values, which ensures that Marshalls is synonymous with “Creating
Better Landscapes “.
14
Strategy page 14
16
KPIs page 16
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Our customers
Our customers range from Domestic and
consumer to Public Sector and Commercial.
We seek to exceed the expectations of
customers in all of our end markets.
Service
We pride ourselves on our customer
service and technical advice across both
our Domestic/Homeowner products and our
Commercial products. The Group sets industry
leading standards of product quality, availability
and "on‑time" delivery.
Quality
We are committed to producing new products
that better any existing market offering and
to make them from the best materials we
can source. The Group maintains its technical
expertise in all areas.
Sustainability
We believe in conducting our
business in a manner that
achieves sustainable growth
whilst incorporating and
demonstrating a high degree
of social responsibility.
Our brand
Marshalls is a benchmark for excellence.
We have been voted a Business Superbrand every
year since 2010. Emphasis is being placed on the
further extension of the Marshalls brand across
all areas of hard landscaping.
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
09
Operational Review
Indian Basalt at Leadenhall Building,
London
Construction Output Forecast Chart
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Total construction output
CPA forecast values (e = estimate, f = forecast)
145,000
140,000
135,000
130,000
125,000
120,000
115,000
110,000
105,000
100,000
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014 (e)
2015 (f)
2016 (f)
2017 (f)
2018 (f)
Economic market background
The construction market has seen positive growth over the last
23 months. The Office for National Statistics reported construction
output growth of 5.9 per cent in the 12 months to November 2014,
compared to the previous 12 months and the CPA is now estimating
growth of 7.4 per cent for 2014. The CPA continued to strengthen its
forecasts during 2014 and background economic conditions in the
UK have continued to improve.
In January 2015, the Office for National Statistics estimated that GDP
in 2014 as a whole was 2.6 per cent higher than in 2013 and that in
Q4 2014, GDP was estimated to have been 3.4 per cent higher than
the pre-economic downturn peak in Q1 2008. The CPA’s GDP forecast
for 2015 is for 2.7 per cent growth.
Outlook remains strong with the CPA’s current forecast for construction
output standing at 5.3 per cent growth in 2015 and 4.2 per cent,
3.4 per cent and 3.9 per cent in the following three years.
a proxy for Domestic end market demand, will increase by
11.5 per cent in 2014. Growth of 4.0 per cent is expected in 2015 with
increases of 4.0 per cent and 3.0 per cent forecast for 2016 and 2017.
GfK’s Consumer Confidence index has improved significantly in the last
18 months and has stabilised at a roughly neutral position for the last
6 months.
The prospects for the Eurozone continue to remain more subdued.
Consumer price inflation is likely to be around 1.9 per cent in 2015,
which compares with 1.8 per cent in 2014.
Market
In the Public Sector and Commercial end market Marshalls focuses
on developing products which help architects, local authorities,
housebuilders and contractors to "Create Better Spaces", whether
in street furniture, natural stone paving for the internal or external
environment, concrete block paving, water management or
anti-terrorist products.
In the UK Domestic end market the CPA estimates that Private
Housing Repair, Maintenance and Improvement expenditure,
Marshalls continues to be the only landscape products company able
to provide a fully integrated product offer to the Public Sector and
Commercial end market.
10
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Strategic Report
Economic conditions in
the UK have continued
to improve.
Outlook remains strong with the CPA's current forecast for construction
output standing at 5.3 per cent growth in 2015 and 4.2 per cent,
3.4 per cent and 3.9 per cent in the following three years.
Contracts awarded (12 Month Rolling Average) of hard landscape value
(Barbour ABI with 12 Month Lag)
£ Million
350
300
250
200
150
150
Jan 05
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M ay 06
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Sep 10
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Jan 15
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Sep 15
Marshalls continues to invest in products, sales and technical resource
for those parts of the market where it anticipates growth, in particular
in rail infrastructure, house building and water management.
The CPA’s overall view is that in the short term it is private housing
and infrastructure that are driving the upturn in construction output.
Rail infrastructure spend is being particularly boosted by Network
Rail’s nationwide work programme supported by a few major projects,
including Crossrail. As a consequence output from rail infrastructure
spending is forecast to grow by 8 per cent in 2015.
Private housing has driven a significant part of the recovery of construction
output, which is being partly boosted by Government schemes such as
“Help to Buy” and the “Funding for Lending Scheme”. Private housing starts
are estimated to have grown by 14 per cent in 2014 and further growth
of 8 per cent is currently forecast by the CPA for 2015. In the light of this,
Marshalls has dedicated sales support in the housebuilding sector and has
secured framework agreements with 13 of the top 25 house builders.
Outside of housebuilding and infrastructure, construction output
continues to gain strength; the CPA estimates that Other New Work
(excluding Infrastructure), a proxy for demand, was up 0.4 per cent
in 2014 and forecasts an increase of 5.9 per cent in 2015. Growth
of 5.8 per cent and 5.7 per cent is currently forecast for 2016 and
2017 respectively.
The Group has experienced technical and sales teams focused on the
key growth areas and by working with clients, architects and contractors
they are able to provide a unique overview of the project and offer
a complete solution comprising a full suite of products.
Relationships with clients, architects and contractors and the development
of systems to identify projects are a key priority. The visibility of projects
through externally measured sources such as Barbour ABI gives a measure
of control over securing future volume. This approach continues to
deliver good growth in bespoke street furniture, natural stone paving
and sustainable urban drainage products.
Historically, the Barbour ABI chart has provided a reliable picture of future
demand. It consolidates planning information for all the sub sectors
requiring hard landscaping. On average, there is a 12 month lag between
contracts being awarded and the landscape products being required,
so it provides 12 month advance information on likely future demand.
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
11
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Operational Review continued
Fletcher Bank Sandstone at
St Paul's School, London
Installer order books and Domestic sales volume
MLP Domestic MAT – Index January 2013
Order Books linear trend
0
0
1
=
3
1
0
2
n
a
J
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e
d
n
i
–
T
A
M
e
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m
o
d
l
l
A
Installer Order Books (last value)
120
115
110
105
100
95
90
Jan 13
Feb 13
M ar 13
Apr 13
M ay 13
Jun 13
Jul 13
Aug 13
Sep 13
Oct 13
N ov 13
Dec 13
Jan 14
Feb 14
M ar 14
Apr 14
M ay 14
Jun 14
Jul 14
Aug 14
Sep 14
Oct 14
N ov 14
Dec 14
13.0
12.0
11.0
10.0
9.0
8.0
7.0
)
k
r
o
w
'
s
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e
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w
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o
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e
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A
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s
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o
B
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e
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a
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s
n
I
Market continued
Marshalls’ Domestic customers range from DIY enthusiasts to professional
landscapers, driveway installers and garden designers. Sales continue
to be driven through the Marshalls Register of Accredited Landscapers
and Driveway Installers.
The Group is committed to increasing the marketing support to the
installer base and the Marshalls Register through increased training,
marketing materials and sales support. The Group has also continued
to focus on product innovation in order to assist installers with
significantly increased order books.
Marshalls offers homeowners the inspiration and product ranges
needed to create gardens and driveways that integrate effortlessly
with people’s lifestyles.
The target customer groups for installed patios and driveways occupy
9.1 million homes, a far bigger potential market than new build. These
customers are generally older, have equity in their property, earn more
and often have savings. An ageing population is combining with a lifestyle
trend towards more outdoor living and the “outdoor room”. Through
marketing and product development the Group continues to promote
solutions to meet the aspirations of these customer groups.
The Group’s Domestic strategy is to drive more sales through quality
installers. In 2014, Marshalls increased its membership of the Register
and has plans in place to further increase this membership in 2015.
The Marshalls Register remains the largest installer scheme in the UK.
Internationally Marshalls has placed a key geographic focus on
northern Europe, North America and the Middle East.
In western Europe, the Group’s strategy in the Domestic end market is
to be a niche, premium product supplier. The Group's manufacturing
site in Belgium provides a physical stock location in mainland Europe
from which to supply the wider Group’s specialist product portfolio.
The aim is to provide products that are not readily available in
mainland Europe. There are over 40 million people living within a
two-hour drive from the site, an area that covers Belgium, Holland,
northern France and parts of Germany.
In 2014, a £2 million restructuring provision was undertaken at
Marshalls NV which will allow for a reduction in the cost of
manufacturing at its sites.
12
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Strategic Report
Marshalls now has a sales presence in North America and is supplying
natural stone to commercial projects via distribution relationships
with US companies such as Unilock and Stone Paving.
Marshalls continues to supply a number of high profile projects in
the Middle East, in particular focusing on driving sales in the United
Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Qatar. In 2014, Marshalls supplied King
Abdulaziz International Airport in Saudi Arabia with £1 million of
bespoke lighting, as well as paving to the world’s largest shopping
centre in Kuwait.
Operations
The Group operates its own concrete production facilities as well as
quarries throughout the United Kingdom producing paving, walling,
masonry and cladding products and is supported by a centrally managed
logistics and distribution operation. The structure gives the Group
operational flexibility through the optimisation of the production and
logistics footprint to provide nationwide lowest cost to market products.
in the UK, the Group has a unique manufacturing network of 13 concrete
manufacturing sites with enough capacity to absorb medium term
demand and the flexibility for further capacity and capability investment.
The well invested capital equipment provides the flexibility to
manufacture products for both the Public Sector and Commercial
and the Domestic end markets and this operational flexibility remains
a key objective. Manufactured products from this network are
combined with ethically sourced natural stone products imported
from India, China and Vietnam and are supplied to distributors’ depots
or, at their request, direct to site.
The Group operates its own fleet of 44-tonne delivery vehicles
equipped with crane offloading capability and is in the process of
expanding this further in 2015 in order to continue to guarantee
continuity of our high service levels as the construction industry
is currently experiencing shortages of both vehicles and drivers.
This manufacturing, sourcing and distribution network enables the
Group to supply products to 97 per cent of its customers within
a 2 hour drive. The proximity to our customers enables costs to
be controlled and unparalleled service levels to be maintained.
Marshalls has a world class Manufacturing, Innovation and
Development team of engineers and technicians which is integrated
to provide competitive advantage through combining machinery
design and installation with process improvement. This capability
and competency is a key component of the Group’s success and
will be invested in further to accelerate new product development
across the business in 2015.
Product innovation
Marshalls is committed to producing new and innovative products
that better any existing market offering.
In 2014, the Commercial side of the business extended its water
management range with a number of innovative new drainage
products, including Mono Beany, a market-first concrete combined
kerb and drainage product. Marshalls has also continued to develop
its range of market-leading permeable paving products.
On the Domestic side there has been a contemporary extension
to the Drivesys range of patented driveway products, as well as the
launch of Pavesys, the patio version of this product range. As well
as being technically superior, these products are 50 per cent quicker
to install assisting installers with lengthy order books.
Marshalls has added a new material to its Domestic range with
vitrified paving. As well as being aesthetically pleasing this material
is exceptionally hard wearing and has ultra low water absorbency
qualities meaning that it will not become discoloured. This product
is already proving to be exceptionally popular in northern Europe.
Achievements
Marshalls remains at the forefront of sustainable business. It was the first
company in the hard landscaping industry to belong to the Ethical
Trading Initiative ("ETI"). Marshalls is committed to the implementation
of the ETI Base Code, pioneering the ethical sourcing of natural stone
paving from India and China.
Building on its work with the ETI, in 2013 Marshalls announced
a 3 year partnership with UNICEF aimed at tackling child labour
in India’s quarrying sector and furthering children’s rights in China and
Vietnam. As part of this partnership Marshalls donates £1 per square
metre sold of its ethically sourced natural stone paving to the charity.
Following its acceptance in 2009, Marshalls remains a signatory
of the United Nations Global Compact ("UNGC") and its Group
Marketing Director is Chair of the UNGC UK network.
In addition, The Carbon Trust has reaccredited Marshalls 3 times. Since
2009, the Group has reduced its relative carbon footprint by more
than 24 per cent and has made a commitment to reduce its carbon
emissions by over 3 per cent per year until 2020.
Marshalls remains the only organisation in the world to have carbon
labelled its entire domestic range. It continues to be a constituent
member of the FTSE4Good UK Index and an active member of
Business in the Community ("BITC").
In 2014, Marshalls is proud to have been accredited by the Living
Wage Foundation as a Living Wage employer. Marshalls also received
a "Very Good" in the BRE standard BES 6001 Sustainable Sourcing
of Construction Product Certification for each and every one of
its concrete product and stone manufacturing facilities in the UK.
Marshalls was the first business in its sector to receive this certificate
under BRE’s new and more stringent standard.
For more information on Marshalls’ sustainability work please
see its United Nations Global Compact Communication on
Progress ("UNGCCoP"), available to download from the
Sustainability section of the Marshalls website.
UNGCCoP
www.marshalls.co.uk/ UNGCCoP2015
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
13
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Strategy
Focused on growth
The Group's focus is to grow the business organically and selectively
through acquisitions. The strategic objectives include the improvement
of profit margins in all businesses and to increase the Group's return on
capital employed.
Long-term strategy
Corporate
Operational
Shareholder value.
To deliver sustainable shareholder
value by improving the profitability
of the Group’s operations and
optimising the operating
performance of the business.
Sustainable profitability.
To maintain a strong market
position and sustainable
profitability with the national
builders’ merchants and the Public
Sector and Commercial end market
and to improve market share in
other target markets.
Develop relationships.
To develop relationships with
installers to deliver more effective
penetration of the key domestic
routes to market and to improve
product mix.
Organic expansion.
To invest in selective synergistic
acquisitions and organic expansion
in existing and related markets and
product categories to expand our
core business.
14
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Key strategic initiatives
Key strategic initiatives
— To strengthen and extend the Marshalls
— To ensure resources are in place to meet
brand focusing on innovation, service
and new product development;
— To develop “strategic growth initiatives”
for targeted investment and focus; and
— To continue the tight control
of inventory, monetary working
capital and capital expenditure.
the expected cyclical increase in
demand without significant additional
investment; and
— To increase output to meet growing
demand and to deliver benefits from
operational gearing.
Progress in 2014
Progress in 2014
The Marshalls brand remains central to
the Group’s strategy and we have attained
“Superbrand” status again for 2015. The Marshalls
brand has now been fully integrated across the
Group’s businesses. Specific growth initiatives
currently include Rail, Newbuild Housing, Water
Management and Street Furniture. Net debt has
been reduced to £30.5 million and stock
turnover has continued to improve in 2014.
The Group’s underlying operating margin
has increased during 2014 from 5.2 per cent
to 7.6 per cent and volume growth has been
significantly ahead of CPA forecasts. This
improvement has been due to the benefits of
operational gearing which has been enhanced
by efficient manufacturing and reductions in
the Group's fixed cost base in recent years.
Objectives and targets
Objectives and targets
A key strategic objective is to improve Return
on Capital Employed ("ROCE") and in 2014
ROCE increased by 54 per cent to 12.5 per cent.
The Group has re-affirmed the objective of
having a progressive dividend policy and,
throughout its operations, Marshalls' aim
is to demonstrate a high degree of
Social Responsibility.
The Group’s objective is to retain its
market-leading position and to continue
to focus on innovation and customer service.
The Group aims to be at the forefront of
technical research and development and
to maintain the highest level of health and
safety and sustainability performance.
Strategic Report 4
8
16
18
Chairman's Statement page 4
Business Model page 8
Key Performance Indicators
page 16
Risk Management and
Principal Risks page 18
Public Sector and Commercial Domestic
International
Key strategic initiatives
Key strategic initiatives
Key strategic initiatives
— To target marketing, cross selling
opportunities and product innovation;
— To continue to focus on “Scapes” and
the introduction of new Scapes with
market growth potential;
— To create more “pull through” demand
from consumers and installers through
the installers and merchant supply chain;
— To develop further the relationship with
installers to improve lead generation;
— To focus on targeted growth areas such
as: Water Management, Sustainable
Urban Drainage, Traffic Management,
Internal Stone Paving, Stone Cladding,
Education, Home Improvement, Rail and
Sustainability; and
— To continue to enhance the Group’s
portfolio of natural stone types.
— To develop further merchandising
initiatives with merchants;
— To promote new products to improve
the added value from product mix; and
— To continue to focus on training,
marketing and sales support.
— To develop and grow profitably
the International market and invest
prudently in new overseas market
opportunities; and
— To continue to develop and improve
the cost efficiency of supply chains
from India, China and Vietnam.
Progress in 2014
Progress in 2014
Progress in 2014
Sales to the Public Sector and Commercial end
market were up 20 per cent in 2014 and the
Group’s UK smaller businesses (including Street
Furniture, Mineral Products and Stone Cladding)
collectively delivered volume revenue growth
of £9.3 million and related profit growth of
£2.7 million. Stone Cladding has been a
particular growth area in 2014 and the Group
has been supplying stone for a prestigious
office building in the City of London.
Sales to the Domestic end market
were up 9 per cent in 2014. Installer
order books at the end of February 2015
were at 9.0 weeks (2014: 9.3 weeks).
The Marshalls Register of approved
domestic installers is unique and has
grown to a total of 1,800 teams. The
focus is to ensure a consistently high
standard of quality and good
geographical coverage.
International revenue has grown by
27 per cent in 2014, with encouraging
levels of activity in Belgium despite the
continuing subdued market background
in mainland Europe. During the year focus
has been directed to ensure that the Group’s
International operations are better aligned
with market opportunities. This has resulted
in the cessation of manufacturing at the
Arendonk site in Belgium.
Objectives and targets
Objectives and targets
Objectives and targets
The Group’s objective is to maintain and
develop its market-leading position in the core
business and, at the same time, to focus on
areas of particular growth opportunity. The
Group continues to focus on innovation and
new product development and to promote
Marshalls’ integrated product offer.
The Group’s objective is to maintain and
develop its market-leading position, to improve
product mix and to drive more sales through
quality installers. The Group remains committed
to increasing the marketing support to the
installer base and the Marshalls Register
through increased training, marketing materials
and sales support.
The Group’s objective is to develop the
Marshalls brand internationally and to grow
the business profitably. Marshalls continues
to expand its geographical reach and to extend
its global supply chains and routes to market.
The aim is to extend the distribution of natural
stone products into key focus areas, including
North America and the Middle East.
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
15
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Key Performance Indicators
The Group's KPIs monitor progress towards the achievement of its
objectives. All of the Group's strategic KPIs have improved significantly
during 2014.
Revenue
£m
£358.5m+16.6%
300.5
325.1
300.9
307.4
358.5
Operating profit
£m
£25.3m+57.3%
25.3
15.0
12.9
16.1
11.0
10
11
12
13
14
10
11
12
13
14
Group revenue has increased by 16.6 per cent in 2014 which is
significantly ahead of the historic target of 7 per cent. International
revenue has grown by 27.3 per cent in 2014 to £21.0 million and has
increased to 5.9 per cent of total Group sales.
Operating profit has increased by 57.3 per cent to £25.3 million in
2014. The Group's strong operational gearing has driven an increase
in reported operating margin from 5.2 per cent to 7.1 per cent, which
represents an increase of 35 per cent. The increase of 1.9 per cent
is ahead of the Group's targeted 1 per cent increase.
EPS
p
10.13p+46.0%
10.13
5.66
5.52
6.94
3.46
ROCE
%
12.5%+54%
12.5
8.1
5.3
5.2
4.2
10
11
12
13
14
10
11
12
13
14
Group EPS has increased by 46.0 per cent in 2014 to 10.13 pence.
The strategic target is for EPS to grow by 100 per cent over a
3 year period.
Group ROCE is 12.5 per cent for the year ended 31 December 2014,
which represents an increase of 54 per cent during the year.
The strategic target is for ROCE to be at least 15 per cent. ROCE
is defined as EBITA/shareholders' funds plus net debt.
16
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Strategic Report Net debt
£m
£30.5m
77.1
66.8
63.5
35.6
30.5
Dividend per share (recommended)
p
6.00p+14.3%
6.00
5.25
5.25
5.25
5.25
10
11
12
13
14
10
11
12
13
14
Net debt at 31 December 2014 is £30.5 million (2013: £35.6 million)
which represents a reduction of 14 per cent.
The Group's strategic target is for the ratio of net debt to EBITDA to be
2 times over the business cycle. At 31 December 2014 the ratio was
comfortably within this at 0.8 times.
A progressive dividend policy remains a key objective, with the
continuing strategy of maintaining up to 2 times cover over the
business cycle. On an IFRS basis the dividends declared in the
year ended 31 December 2014 are 5.50 pence. The final dividend
recommended is 4.00 pence per share which, including the interim
dividend of 2.00 pence, gives a total for the year of 6.00 pence.
For the year ended 31 December 2014 dividend cover was 1.8 times
on an IFRS basis and 1.7 times on a traditional basis.
Customer service
Customer service index
97%
95
97
Health and safety
Reduction in working days lost
30%
10
30
Target
Achieved
Target
Achieved
Customer service lies at the heart of the Marshalls brand. The Group's
customer service index combines measures of product availability,
on-time delivery performance and administrative and delivery
accuracy. The Group's customer service index target is 95 per cent.
The combined customer service measure continued to be
in excess of 97 per cent throughout 2014.
Marshalls remains committed to meeting the highest health
and safety standards for all its employees and continually strives
to improve the quality and safety of the working environment.
The headline target for 2014 was a 10 per cent reduction in days
lost resulting from workplace incidents against 2013.
During 2014 there was a 29.6 per cent reduction in days lost
from workplace incidents.
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
17
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Risk Management and Principal Risks
Framework for managing risk.
Process
There is a formal ongoing process to identify, assess and analyse risks
and those of a more material nature are included in the Group Risk
Register. The Group Risk Register is reviewed and updated at least
every 6 months and the overall process is the subject of regular
review. Risks are recorded with a full analysis and risk owners are
nominated who have authority and responsibility for assessing and
managing the risk. All risks are analysed for impact and probability
to determine exposure and impact to the business and the
determination of a “gross risk score” enables risk exposure to be
prioritised. External risks include the weather, political and economic
conditions, the effect of legislation or other regulatory actions, the
actions of competitors, foreign exchange, raw material prices and
pension funding. Internal risks include investment in new products,
new business strategies and acquisitions.
The Group seeks to mitigate exposure to all forms of strategic,
financial and operational risk both external and internal. The
effectiveness of key mitigating controls is continually monitored
and such controls are subjected to internal audit and periodic testing
in order to provide independent verification where this is deemed
appropriate. The effectiveness and impact of key controls are evaluated
and this is used to determine a “net risk score” for each risk. The process
is used to develop action plans that are used to manage, or respond
to, the risks and these are monitored and reviewed on a regular basis
by the Group’s Audit Committee.
The Board
— The Board determines the Group’s approach to risk, its policies and the
procedures that are put in place to mitigate exposure to risk.
The Audit Committee
— Has delegated responsibility from the Board to oversee
risk management and internal controls;
— Reviews the effectiveness of the Group’s risk management
and internal control procedures;
— Monitors the effectiveness of the internal audit function
and the independence of the external audit.
Executive Directors
— Responsible for the effective
maintenance of the Group’s
Risk Register;
— Oversee the management
of risk;
— Monitor risk mitigation and
controls; and
— Monitor the effective
implementation of
action plans.
Internal Audit
— Independent review of
effectiveness of internal
control procedures;
— Report on effectiveness of
management actions; and
— Provide assurance to the
Audit Committee.
Operational Managers
— Responsible for identification of operational and strategic risks;
— Responsible for ownership and control of specific risks; and
— Responsible for establishing and managing the implementation
of appropriate action plans.
Understanding movements in business risk:
Increase
No change
Decrease
Nature of risk
Potential impact
Mitigating factors
Change
Macro-economic and political
The Group is dependent on
the level of activity in its UK and
International end markets.
Accordingly, it is susceptible to
economic downturn and the
impact of Government policy.
The lower activity levels could
reduce sales and production
volumes and therefore could have
an adverse effect on the Group's
financial results.
The Group closely monitors trends
and lead indicators, invests in market
research and is an active member
of the CPA.
The Group benefits from the diversity
of its business and end markets.
The Group focuses on sales
opportunities and strategic growth
initiatives, together with quality, service
and its supply chain.
Economic risk has reduced as
economic and sector outlook and
growth rates have improved.
Government expenditure
is now likely to be near the
cyclical low and there is now
upside potential in certain
focus areas, e.g. rail.
The economic outlook for
the Eurozone continues
to be difficult.
18
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Strategic Report Nature of risk
Potential impact
Mitigating factors
Change
Weather
The Group is exposed to the
impact of prolonged periods
of bad weather.
The lower activity levels could
reduce sales and production
volumes and therefore could have
an adverse effect on the Group's
financial results.
The Group has a continuing focus on
new product development including
landscape water management.
The Group is developing its internal
flooring offer and developing its
International strategy in order to
diversify its activities.
Weather conditions are totally
beyond the Group’s control.
2014 has been a relatively
benign weather year.
Customers
The UK business has a number
of key customers, in particular
the national merchants. This
is partly as a result of the
consolidated nature of
this market.
The loss of a significant customer
may give rise to a significant
adverse effect on the Group's
financial results.
Competitor activity
The Group has a number
of existing competitors
who compete on range, price,
quality and service.
The increased competition
could reduce volumes and margins
on manufactured and traded
products.
Potential new low cost
competitors may be attracted
into the market through
increased demand for imported
natural stone products.
The Group focuses on brand and new
product development, quality and
customer service improvement.
The risk continues and is
largely a consequence of the
way the market is structured.
The Group maintains a national network
of manufacturing and distribution sites.
The Group undertakes ongoing reviews
of trading policies and relationships and
maintains constant communication with
customers.
The Group has unique selling points
that differentiate the Marshalls
branded offer.
The Group focuses on quality,
service, reliability and ethical
standards that differentiate Marshalls
from competitor products.
The Group continues to have the
lowest cost to market.
The Group has a continuing focus
on new product development.
The improved market outlook
has increased demand (relative
to available supply) and this has
lead to a reduction in such
competitive pressure.
Continuing demand for
imported natural stone
potentially serves to
maintain this risk.
Cost and availability of raw materials
The Group is susceptible to
significant increases in the price
of raw materials, utilities, fuel oil,
haulage costs and
vehicle availability.
As demand increases, the Group
is potentially more exposed to
the risk of temporary raw
material shortages.
The increased costs could reduce
margins and may be further
impacted in the event of imbalances
in the mix of regional activity.
The risk of market demand
exceeding raw material supply could
lead to inefficient production which
could reduce margins.
The Group benefits from the diversity
of its business and end markets.
The Group focuses on its supplier
relationships, flexible contracts and
the use of hedging instruments.
The Group utilises sales pricing
and purchasing policies designed
to mitigate the risks.
Cost inflation remains a
risk as demand for raw
materials increases.
The improved market outlook
has increased demand
(relative to available supply)
and there is an increased risk
of temporary shortages.
The Group has its own fleet
of specialist delivery vehicles.
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
19
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Risk Management and Principal Risks continued
Nature of risk
Potential impact
Mitigating factors
Change
Pension
The defined benefit pension
scheme may be impacted by
volatility in financial markets and
the longevity of members.
These risks could increase pension
scheme liabilities or reduce assets,
putting pressure on accounting
notional interest and therefore
downward pressure on PBT and EPS.
This could also result in the need for
additional cash contributions.
Environmental
An environmental contamination
event may lead to a prosecution
and to reputational loss.
An incident could lead to disruption
to production and to financial
penalties as well as a potential
negative impact on the Group's
reputation.
The risks surrounding the
continuing funding of the
past service liability remain
unchanged as many of these
are driven by financial markets
and factors outside the
Group’s control.
The defined benefit section of the
Pension Scheme is closed to new
members and future service accrual.
The Group uses liability driven
investments to hedge interest rate and
inflation risks.
De-risking strategies continue to be
pursued and risk management is a key
control used by the Trustee.
Professional advisers are consulted to
minimise risk.
The Group uses professional specialists
covering carbon reduction, water
management and biodiversity.
The Group focuses on the
implementation of ISO standards.
The Group has a formal Group
sustainability strategy focusing
on impact reduction.
The Group is unable to
predict future changes
in environmental laws or
policies or the ultimate
cost of compliance with
such laws or policies.
Corporate, legal and regulatory
The Group may be adversely
affected by an unexpected
reputational event, for example,
it its ethical supply chain.
An incident could lead to a
disruption to the supply of products
for customers and to increased
costs as well as a potential negative
impact on the Group's reputation.
The Group employs compliance
procedures, policies and independent
audit processes which seek to ensure
that local, national and international
regulatory and compliance procedures
are fully complied with.
The extension of the Group’s
activities into new international
markets causes this risk to
continue, notwithstanding
the additional compliance
procedures within the
supply chain.
Access to funding
The Group continues to require
debt funding in order to meet its
trading obligations and to grow
the business.
Insufficient access to funding could
limit the Group’s ability to achieve
the desired levels of growth.
The Group has significant committed
facilities in place with a good spread
of medium term maturities and
significant headroom.
The Group’s policy continues to be to
arrange funding ahead of requirements
and to maintain sufficient undrawn
committed bank facilities.
The improved economic
outlook and the Group’s
reduced gearing has served
to reduce this risk. There is
also improved liquidity and
increased competition within
the banking sector.
IT infrastructure
Disruption to the IT environment
could affect the Group's ability to
conduct its ongoing operations.
Ineffective procedures could lead to
an adverse effect on the Group's
financial results.
All IT system development projects are
actively and carefully planned with
defined governance and
control procedures.
The continued investment in
and maintenance of IT systems
across the Group gives rise to
good control of this risk.
Regular independent risk and project
management audits are undertaken.
The Group ensures that industry
standards are adopted and disaster
recovery plans and procedures exist and
are regularly tested.
20
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Strategic Report Corporate Responsibility
CEO Martyn Coffey presenting Overgate
Hospice with a cheque for £34,000
Overview
Corporate responsibility, awareness and mitigation of adverse impact
on the environment, and positive engagement with our community
and employees have long been core values of Marshalls. We aim to
align our business values, purpose and strategy with the social, economic
and environmental needs of our stakeholders, embedding responsible
and ethical business policies and practices in everything we do.
business. Wherever reasonably practicable, we offer training and
make adjustments to ensure employees with a disability are not
disadvantaged in the workplace.
Our workforce comprised 2,146 employees as at 31 December 2014
with the following gender balance:
Our commitment to these values is led by the Board and Jack Clarke
is the Director with primary responsibility for reporting to the Board
on environmental, social and sustainability matters.
Total Workforce
Senior Managers
Directors
Male
84%
85%
100%
Female
16%
15%
0%
More information on our policies in relation to the environment and
our impact on it can be found in the Group's Sustainability website.
Sustainability website
www.marshalls.co.uk/sustainability
Employees
Our success depends on our people. In 2014, Marshalls launched its
shared values of leadership, excellence, trust and sustainability. These
values underpin the organisation and are important in the continued
success of the business, giving guidance on best business practice
and setting the standards for employees throughout the Group.
Equality and diversity
In our recruitment and selection processes we recognise the importance
of diversity within our workforce. We are committed to promoting and
maintaining a working environment based on mutual respect, where
individual talent is recognised and valued and to providing training
designed to raise levels of awareness and sensitivity to matters of equality
and dignity at work. We have fair and merit-based employment policies
and we adhere to relevant legislation, including measures for the
effective prevention of discrimination against individuals with protected
characteristics under the 2010 Equality Act.
We welcome, and give full and fair consideration to, applications from
individuals with recognised disabilities and ensure they have equal
opportunity for employment and career development in our
We believe that the high proportion of male employees is due to the
sector in which we operate (the manufacture of construction materials)
in which there have been traditionally fewer female applicants for jobs. In
striving for a better workplace for all, we expect to make a positive impact
towards improving gender balance. Our approach to diversity at Board
level is explained in the Corporate Governance Report.
Employee engagement
There is a dedicated resource within the Human Resources team focusing
specifically on our engagement activities, through interaction with local
management teams and employee focus groups. We communicate the
Group’s financial results, performance and overall direction by means of
our internal intranet, monthly newsletter, site notice boards and face to
face briefings between senior management and various employee
groups. Through our employee "Options" platform, we offer a range of
employee-focused benefits, which are regularly reviewed and updated
and periodically offer access to employee benefits and services, such as
Childcare Vouchers and "Cycle to Work" schemes.
In 2014, the Group participated for the fourth successive year in the Best
Companies Workplace Engagement Survey. Participation increased by
5 per cent to almost 75 per cent of all employees and the results showed
continued progress against previous workplace engagement targets,
resulting in a “One to Watch” accreditation from Best Companies.
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
21
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Corporate Responsibility continued
Charnwood Paving at
Canary Wharf, London
Employees continued
Employee engagement continued
We operate a structured, consultative and collaborative interaction with
recognised trades unions, their members and with our broader colleague
base. In 2013, a 3 year agreement covering pay and employment terms
throughout the period 2013 – 2015 was successfully negotiated with
elected representatives and full time officers, providing a high level of
certainty of employment costs throughout 2015. Marshalls was also
accredited in 2014 as a "Living Wage Employer".
The continued development of progressive working practices across
several of our larger manufacturing sites, in consultation with employees
and employee representatives has facilitated significantly greater
manufacturing flexibility in support of the Company’s growth agenda and
increased levels of demand for product. The Group’s “Serious Concerns
Policy”, which is displayed on the intranet and at all sites, provides a
framework for employees to raise any matters of concern confidentially
and securely and ensures that any matters raised are properly investigated.
The Group's all-employee Share Purchase Plan provides employees with
the opportunity to purchase shares in the Company. More details are on
page 65. The Company is also proposing to introduce an all-employee
save-as-you-earn scheme, subject to shareholder approval at the 2015
Annual General Meeting.
Training and development
The Development Review process has been further extended during 2014
and provides all employees with the opportunity for one-to-one discussions
with their manager, covering work objectives, personal performance and
career development. This is supported by the use of enhanced on-line
resources and tools, together with site-based "tool-box talks".
A tailored team leader development programme commenced in
2014 to develop around 100 first-line managers within operations to
drive manufacturing excellence. The programme, which will continue
into 2015, aims to improve management and leadership skills through
professional qualifications and a range of internal workshops.
In 2015, a dedicated resource within Marshalls’ Human Resources
team will ensure appropriate focus on aligning our people
22
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
development strategy with the requirements of the growth agenda
and our business plans.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Marshalls’ Energy and Climate Change Policy confirms the Group’s
commitment to reducing the Energy and Carbon impact of its
business. Our target is to reduce absolute CO2e emissions in line with
UK Government targets (34 per cent by 2020 and 80 per cent by 2050
from a 1990 baseline). Our progress indicates that reductions are in
line with the 2020 and 2050 targets.
The Group complied with its legal obligation in the Government’s Carbon
Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency Scheme (“CRC”) by submitting
its Annual Report and surrender of carbon allowances for the period
April 2013 to March 2014 within the time limit imposed by the legislation.
The Group was certified to the Carbon Trust Standard up to December
2014 and its aim is to recertify for a further 2 years. The Group's approach
to the recently introduced Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme ("ESOS")
registration is to incorporate its energy management into its Integrated
Management Systems through ISO 14001 and ISO 50001. The Group
continues to report voluntarily to the “Carbon Disclosure Project”
receiving a 98B rating for its 2014 report. This report includes a wider
carbon management performance over time and also provides an
insight for shareholders regarding the Group’s energy, carbon and
climate change impact management programme.
Marshalls has a mandatory duty to report its annual Greenhouse Gas
Emissions (“GHG”) under the Companies Act 2006 (Strategic and Directors’
Reports) Regulations 2013 and the Large and Medium-sized Companies
and Groups (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Marshalls uses the
GHG Protocol Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard (revised
edition) and the latest "DEFRA" published CO2e conversion factors to
measure its GHG emissions.
Climate Change Policy
www.marshalls.co.uk/ccp
Carbon Disclosure Project
www.cdp.net
Strategic Report Marshalls is committed to
reducing the energy and
carbon impact of the business.
The Group continues to report voluntarily to the
"Carbon Disclosure Project", receiving a 98B rating
for its 2014 report.
The chart below illustrates the Group's UK absolute CO2e emissions
in tonnes, including transport activities between 2010 and 2014.
The chart below illustrates the Group's CO2e intensity emissions as a
proportion of production output, including transport activities
between 2010 and 2014.
Scope 1 and 2 emissions
Scope 1
Scope 2
Relative CO2e per tonne production scopes 1 and 2
(kgs CO2e per tonne)
e
2
O
C
s
e
n
n
o
T
70,000
60,000
50,000
40,000
30,000
20,000
10,000
0
20,495
18,703
16,212
45,770
45,329
43,518
14,015
16,769
40,012
36,166
10
10
11
12
13
14
t
u
p
t
u
o
n
o
i
t
c
u
d
o
r
p
e
n
n
o
t
r
e
p
e
2
O
C
s
g
k
18.00
16.00
14.00
12.00
10.00
8.00
6.00
4.00
2.00
0.00
15.88
11.42
11.73
12.12
11.52
10
10
11
12
13
14
A number of factors have contributed to the Group's energy
performance during the year including significant increases in
outputs from continuing operations, business churn, particularly
in the aggregates business, weather and management systems.
The Group reports that it is responsible for the GHG emissions of Marshalls
NV. The CO2 emission from Marshalls NV activities in 2014 (absolute) was
961 tonnes and (intensity) 5.73 kg per tonne of production.
Marshalls publishes its environmental KPI performance for the financial
year in a separate document, the Marshalls’ Environmental KPI 2015
Report. This covers our energy performance in more detail, together with
reporting of our environmental governance, policies, management and
key environmental impact areas such as waste, water and packaging.
The Environmental KPI 2015 Report also includes details of our work with
internationally recognised expert bodies such as the Carbon Trust, the
Wildlife Trust and the Woodland Trust.
For more information see
www.marshalls.co.uk/EnvKPI2015
This section of the Annual Report has been audited by a qualified
verifier on behalf of the British Standards Institution ("BSI"). On the basis of
the work undertaken, this carbon statement is considered to be a fair
reflection of the Group’s performance during the financial year 2014 and
contains no misleading information.
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
23
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information
Corporate Responsibility continued
Brentford Marketplace
Health and safety
Marshalls remains committed to meeting the highest safety standards
for all its employees, to reinforce and develop its safety processes, and
to develop a competent workforce with a view to achieving long term
improvement gains, and this remains a key priority for the business.
Achievement of annual health and safety improvement targets is
directly linked to the remuneration of the Executive Directors and
senior management, as explained in the Remuneration Report.
Our Safety, Health and Incident Prevention ("SHIP") teams, consisting of
employee representatives and managers, are the cornerstone of the safety
management system at site level, and meet regularly to support and
develop our safety programme and objectives. The Group’s operating sites
have been progressively implementing Integrated Management
Registration systems accredited by the BSI incorporating accreditation
to OHSAS (Occupational Health and Safety Accreditation Standard)
18001:2007. At the end of 2014 all but 1 operational site within the
Group held a BS OHSAS (18001:2007) registration, and the single
remaining site is scheduled for registration in 2015.
The headline target for 2014 was a 10 per cent reduction in days
Incident frequency and severity rates
(per 100,000 hrs worked)
lost resulting from workplace incidents against 2013. The actual
reductions achieved were:
— 29.6 per cent reduction in days lost resulting from
workplace incidents;
— 9.9 per cent reduction in all incident frequency rate;
— 41 per cent reduction in lost time incidents ("LTIs") recorded; and
— 8.3 per cent reduction in incidents reportable to the HSE under
the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases Dangerous Occurrence
Regulations ("RIDDOR").
The primary target for 2015 will again be a 10 per cent reduction year
on year in days lost resulting from workplace accidents. The table
below shows the KPIs used by the Group to monitor performance,
and progress against those KPIs over the last 5 years.
All incidents
All lost time incidents
All RIDDORs
All days lost
Average headcount
2010
9.49
1.60
0.94
14.76
2,391
2011
8.32
1.55
0.81
20.44
2,456
2012
6.95
1.40
0.61
13.45
2,252
2013
6.56
1.22
0.36
11.46
2,055
2014
5.91
0.72
0.33
8.07
2,132
24
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Strategic Report Strategic Report
Financial Review
Jack Clarke
Finance Director
Trading summary
Revenue
Continuing revenue for the year ended 31 December 2014 was
£358.5 million (2013: £307.4 million) which represented an increase
of 16.6 per cent. Revenue for the six months to 31 December 2014
was up 18.3 per cent compared with the second half of 2013.
Revenue variance analysis 2013/2014
350
36.2
10.4
4.5
358.5
307.4
m
£
300
250
2013
Revenue
Landscape
Products
Other UK
Smaller
Businesses
International
2014
Revenue
An analysis of revenue by end market is summarised in the
table below:
2013
£m
change
%
99.1
191.8
16.5
9.0
19.6
27.3
16.6
Analysis of sales by end market
UK Domestic
Public Sector and Commercial
International
2014
£m
108.0
229.5
21.0
UK Domestic
Public Sector and Commercial
International
358.5
307.4
%
30.0
64.1
5.9
%
32.2
62.4
5.4
Public Sector and Commercial
In the Public Sector and Commercial end market, revenue increased
by 20 per cent on a continuing basis compared with 2013. Sales in
the Public Sector and Commercial end market now represent
approximately 64 per cent of Group sales.
Commercial order intake has been encouraging within the Group.
In the Public Sector and Commercial end market Marshalls’ strategy
is to build on its position as a market-leading landscape products
specialist. The Group has experienced technical and sales teams who
continue to focus on markets where future demand is greatest across
a full range of integrated products and sustainable solutions to
customers, architects and contractors. Commercial work from rail,
water management and new house building continues to increase
and the Group is outperforming the market in these areas. The rail
sector includes Crossrail, which is the largest construction project
in Europe.
UK Domestic
In the UK Domestic end market, revenue increased by 9 per cent.
Sales to the UK Domestic end market now represent approximately
30 per cent of Group sales.
Installer order books at the end of February 2015 were 9.0 weeks
(February 2014: 9.3 weeks), compared with 11.9 weeks at the end
of October 2014. The figure has remained at historically high levels
throughout 2014 and the Group continues to receive good feedback
from its customers and installers for the consistency and quality
of service. The GfK’s Consumer Confidence index has improved
significantly in the last 18 months – although has stabilised at a
roughly neutral position for the last 6 months.
During 2014 the Group has continued to focus on innovation in order
to develop areas of particular sales opportunity and to strengthen
further the Marshalls’ brand. In the UK Domestic end market the
Group’s strategy continues to be to drive more sales through quality
installers. The Marshalls Register of approved domestic installers is
unique and has grown to over 1,800 teams. The objective is to
continually develop the Marshalls brand, to improve the product mix,
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
25
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information
Financial Review continued
The Group has strengthened
its market position and
trading margins are continuing
to improve.
Operating profit
Continuing operations
EBITDA
Depreciation / amortisation
2014
£m
38.5
(13.2)
2013
£m
change
%
30.2
(14.1)
27
(7)
57
Operating profit
25.3
16.1
Operating profit from continuing operations was £25.3 million
(2013: £16.1 million). This is after charging £2 million in relation to the
restructuring of Marshalls NV. EBITDA from continuing operations was
£38.5 million (2013: £30.2 million).
First half / second half phasing
The following table summarises the relative performance of the
second half of 2014 compared with that for the six months ended
30 June 2014. The table illustrates the continued improvement in
the second half of 2014 with revenue increasing by 18.3 per cent
and operating profit increasing by 53.1 per cent compared with the
comparable six month period in 2013.
First half/
second half
phasing
Revenue
HY1
HY2
Total
Operating profit
HY1
HY2
Total
2014
£m
2013
£m
change
%
2014
%
2013
%
180.0
178.5
156.5
15.0%
150.9
18.3%
50%
50%
51%
49%
358.5
307.4
16.6%
15.6
9.7
25.3
9.8
6.3
60.0%
53.1%
61%
39%
61%
39%
16.1
57.3%
Trading summary continued
UK Domestic continued
to ensure a consistently high standard of quality and good
geographical coverage. The Group remains committed to increasing
the marketing support to the installer base through increased
training, marketing materials and sales support.
International
Sales to International markets increased by £4.5 million, or 27.3 per cent,
to £21.0 million. Sales from our operations in Belgium increased by
30 per cent, in local currency, in the year ended 31 December 2014.
Set against the continuing difficult trading conditions in western
Europe this represents a good performance and further progress
has been made in developing the International business which
now represents almost 6 per cent of Group sales.
Despite the Group's increased revenue the International business
is not yet profitable as contribution from this revenue growth has
been offset by revenue investment in the operational infrastructure
which will be necessary to support further expansion for the long
term. Focus has been directed to ensure that International operations
are better aligned with market opportunities. This resulted in a charge
of £2 million in the second half of 2014 in relation to the restructuring
of Marshalls NV.
The Belgian business provides a physical stock location in mainland
Europe from which to supply the Group’s specialist product portfolio.
Marshalls continues to expand its geographical reach and to extend
its International supply chains and routes to market. Sales through
the Group’s new US subsidiary have been very encouraging and
the objective will be to grow further the distribution of natural
stone products into the North American market.
26
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Strategic Report
Revenue
EBITDA
£358.5m +16.6%
£38.5m +27.4%
(2013: £307.4m)
(2013: £30.2m)
Operating profit
£25.3m +57.3%
(2013: £16.1m)
Profit margins
The Group has strengthened its market position and trading margins
are continuing to improve.
further improvement in operating margins. The Group’s Landscape
Products business is now a reportable segment servicing the UK
Public Sector and Commercial and UK Domestic end markets.
Margin analysis
2013 - reported
Price increases to recover costs (UK)
Volume and mix
– Landscape Products
Volume and mix
– other UK smaller businesses
Organic expansion of International
Revenue
£m
Operating
profit
£m
307.4
10.2
16.1
2.6
Margin
Impact
%
5.2%
0.5%
27.1
6.6
1.5%
9.3
4.5
2.7
0.7%
(0.7)
(0.3%)
2014 – underlying
358.5
27.3
7.6%
Restructuring costs – Belgium
–
(2.0)
(0.5%)
2014 – reported
358.5
25.3
7.1%
Underlying operating profit (before restructuring costs) was £27.3 million
with a resulting operating margin of 7.6 per cent (2013: 5.2 per cent).
Operating profit was £25.3 million with a resulting operating margin of
7.1 per cent (2013: 5.2 per cent). In the UK, sales price increases realised
£10.2 million in additional revenue, which exceeded the impact of cost
inflation in the year by £2.6 million. Operating margin improved by 36.5
per cent which reflects improved operational gearing as a result of
volume growth which has been ahead of CPA forecasts.
In the Public Sector and Commercial end market sales prices were up
4 per cent and volume and mix were up approximately 16 per cent.
In the UK Domestic end market sales prices were up 3 per cent and
volume and mix were up approximately 6 per cent.
The Group continues to focus on the development of the Marshalls
brand. Particular emphasis is being directed towards value added
products and on improving product availability, in order to generate
The revenue and operating profit in the Landscape Products
business from volume growth and mix increased by £27.1 million
and £6.6 million respectively on a reported basis. The businesses
that are not reported in the Landscape Products segment include
the Group’s International operations and also the smaller UK
businesses which include Street Furniture, Mineral Products
and Stone Cladding. There has been a significant performance
improvement in these smaller UK businesses during 2014 and they
have collectively delivered volume growth in revenue of £9.3 million
and related profit growth of £2.7 million. Stone Cladding is a particular
growth area and Marshalls has been supplying stone for a prestigious
office building in the City of London.
Operational developments
The Group has excellent relationships with its customers. This is
delivering additional sales and good progress is being made with
the many growth initiatives.
The Group’s industry-leading standards remained high in 2014 giving a
combined customer service measure of 97 per cent. Marshalls continues
to receive good feedback from its customers and installers for the
consistency and quality of its products and service.
Capital investment in property, plant and equipment in 2014 totalled
£12.0 million (2013: £6.1 million). This compares with depreciation of
£12.0 million (2013: £13.5 million). The Group will continue to invest
selectively in innovation to deliver new products and improvement
projects that reinforce its market-leading position. These strengths
support the Group’s medium term growth ambitions and, in addition
to the existing routes to market, a number of other markets have
been identified that are opening up new opportunities for both
existing and new products. Research and development expenditure
in the year ended 31 December 2014 amounted to £2.7 million
(2013: £2.8 million).
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
27
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Financial Review continued
Return on capital employed has
improved significantly to 12.5 per cent
(2013: 8.1 per cent).
Trading summary continued
Earnings per share
Basic EPS from continuing operations was 10.13 pence (2013: 6.94 pence),
an increase of 46 per cent. EPS from total operations was 10.13 pence
(2013: 7.20 pence).
Net financial expenses
Net finance costs were £2.9 million (2013: £3.1 million) and interest
was covered 8.8 times (2013: 5.3 times). External charges were £2.8
million and, in addition, there was an IAS 19 notional interest debit
of £0.1 million (2013: £0.6 million credit) in relation to the Group’s
Pension Scheme. The IAS 19 notional interest comprises interest on
obligations under the defined benefit section of the Marshalls plc
Pension Scheme net of the expected return on Scheme assets.
Taxation
The effective tax rate on continuing operations was 18.7 per cent
(2013: 0.5 per cent) and benefited from a further reduction in the rate
of corporation tax and a credit arising on the finalisation of prior year
tax computations. The effective tax rate in 2013 also benefited from
a corporation tax rate reduction and a prior year credit. An additional
deferred tax credit of £2.6 million arose in 2013 due to substantively
enacted reductions in the rate of corporation tax to 20 per cent by
April 2015. The Group has paid £4.0 million of corporation tax during
the year. Deferred tax of £0.6 million in relation to the actuarial loss
arising on the defined benefit Pension Scheme in the year has been
taken to the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income.
Balance sheet
Group Balance Sheet
Fixed assets
Current assets
Current liabilities
Non‑current liabilities
Sub‑total
Employee benefits
Net assets
Net debt
Net debt: EBITDA
2014
£m
192.6
119.9
(68.3)
(65.7)
178.5
3.4
181.9
(30.5)
0.8
2013
£m
198.1
120.8
(74.2)
(65.0)
179.7
(4.3)
175.4
(35.6)
1.2
Net assets at 31 December 2014 were £181.9 million (2013: £175.4 million).
The Group continues to keep a tight control of receivables and debtor
days remain industry leading due to continued close control of credit
management procedures. The Group maintains credit insurance which
provides excellent intelligence to minimise the number and value
of bad debts and ultimately provides compensation if bad debts are
incurred. The Group's inventory reduction programme has led to a
reduction of approximately £3.5 million despite significantly increased
levels of activity.
Risk management has been a key focus for the Group’s Pension
Scheme over recent years and the actions taken by the Group
and the Pension Trustee have reduced actuarial volatility and risk.
In accordance with the Scheme specific funding and recovery plan,
the Group made cash contributions of £4.6 million into the Scheme
in the year ended 31 December 2014. The fair value of the Scheme
assets at 31 December 2014 was £312.5 million (2013: £258.6 million)
and the present value of the Scheme liabilities is £309.1 million
(2013: £262.9 million). This has given rise to an accounting surplus
of £3.4 million (2013: £4.3 million deficit) at the balance sheet date.
These changes have resulted in an actuarial gain,
28
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Strategic Report Profit before tax
Net debt
£22.4m +72.2%
£30.5m -14.3%
(2013: 13.0m)
(2013: £35.6m)
EPS
10.13p +46.0%
(2013: 6.94p)
net of deferred taxation, of £2.6 million (2013: £15.0 million loss) and
this has been recorded in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive
Income. In the year ended 31 December 2014 the AA corporate bond
rate reduced from 4.6 per cent to 3.6 per cent and the values have
been determined by the Scheme Actuary using assumptions in line
with current market levels.
Analysis of net debt
Cash and cash equivalents
Bank loans < 12 months
Bank loans > 12 months
Finance leases
2014
£m
20.3
–
(50.3)
(0.5)
(30.5)
2013
£m
17.7
(3.4)
(49.7)
(0.2)
(35.6)
At 31 December 2014 net debt was £30.5 million (2013: £35.6 million)
resulting in gearing of 16.8 per cent (2013: 20.3 per cent). This reduction
is due to the operating cash flow impact of improved trading together
with a continuation of the close control of inventory and the effective
management of working capital. Cash management continues to be
a high priority.
of two existing committed loan facilities totalling in aggregate
£50.0 million, with extended maturity dates to 2017 and 2018,
at newly arranged levels totalling £40.0 million. An additional loan
facility of £20.0 million reached maturity on 20 August 2014 and
has been refinanced with an extended maturity date to 2019.
In addition, the Group has a seasonal working capital facility of
£20.0 million which is available between 1 February and 31 August
each year. The Group has significant headroom in its facilities with
year end debt at 31 December 2014 representing approximately
21 per cent of the available facilities.
Interest cover and net debt to EBITDA covenants in the facilities
were met at the year end. The bank facilities are unsecured save for
inter-company guarantees between the Group and its subsidiary
undertakings in favour of the facility banks.
The Group has a strong balance sheet with a good range of medium
term bank facilities available to fund investment initiatives to generate
growth as market conditions improve.
Expiry date
Committed facilities
Facility
£m
Cumulative
facility
£m
Borrowing facilities
The Group continues its policy of having significant committed
facilities in place with a positive spread of medium term maturities.
In July 2014, the Group renewed its short term working capital
facilities with RBS. The Group’s committed facilities are all revolving
credit facilities with interest charged at variable rate based on LIBOR.
Q3 2019
Q3 2018
Q3 2017
Q3 2016
Q3 2015
The total bank borrowing facilities at 31 December 2014
amounted to £125.0 million (2013: £145.0 million) of which
£74.7 million (2013: £92.0 million) remained unutilised. This was due
to the Group's decision to reduce its uncommitted loan facilities by
£10.0 million on 16 July 2014 and the refinancing on 21 August 2014
On-demand facilities
Available all year
Seasonal
(February to August inclusive)
20
20
20
25
25
15
20
20
40
60
85
110
125
145
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
29
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Financial Review continued
The Group has a strong
balance sheet which supports
our investment initiatives to
generate growth.
Bank facilities
m
£
160
140
120
100
80
60
40
20
0
Dec 2014
Dec 2015*
On demand: Seasonal (Feb to Aug)
Committed
On demand: Overdrafts (all year)
Net debt
* December 2015 based on consensus information
Trading summary continued
Cash generation
Group Cash Flow
Net cash from operating activities
(before pension contributions)
Pension contributions
Net cash from operating activities
Net cash from investing activities
Net cash from financing activities
Movement in net debt in the period
Net debt at beginning of period
Net debt at end of period
2014
£m
33.7
(4.6)
29.1
(8.9)
(15.1)
5.1
(35.6)
(30.5)
The Group continues to be cash generative. In the year ended
31 December 2014 net cash flow from operating activities was
£29.1 million (2013: £27.1 million) after deducting £0.2 million
(2013: £0.9 million) of one-off cash expenditure in relation to
operational restructuring costs paid and pension contributions
of £4.6 million (2013: £5.6 million).
30
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
2013
£m
32.7
(5.6)
27.1
11.1
(10.3)
27.9
(63.5)
(35.6)
Analysis of cash utilisation
Free cash flow
Capital expenditure
Proceeds from sale of property assets
Net proceeds from disposal
of discontinued operations
Payments to acquire own shares
Cash returned to shareholders
Movement in net debt
2014
£m
29.1
(12.0)
3.1
–
(4.3)
(10.8)
5.1
2013
£m
27.1
(6.1)
0.2
17.0
–
(10.3)
27.9
Total expenditure on capital expenditure in the year was £12.0 million
(2013: £6.1 million). The majority of this expenditure was invested in
the replacement of existing assets, in business improvements and new
process technology. Proceeds from the sale of targeted property assets
contributed £3.1 million (2013: £0.2 million). Dividend payments in the
year were £10.8 million (2013: £10.3 million).
Jack Clarke
Finance Director
The Strategic Report section on pages 1 to 30 of this
Annual Report has been reviewed and approved by the
Board of Directors on 6 March 2015.
Martyn Coffey
Chief Executive
Strategic Report Corporate Governance
32
Board of Directors and Secretary
34 Corporate Governance Statement
41
43
46
Statement of Directors' Responsibilities
Remuneration Committee Report
Remuneration Report
51 Annual Remuneration Report
62 Audit Committee Report
65
Directors’ Report –
Other Regulatory Information
67
Independent Auditor’s Report
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Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
3131
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information
Board of Directors and Secretary
4
5
7
6
3
1
2
Key
A Member of the Audit Committee R Member of the Remuneration Committee N Member of the Nomination Committee
1. Andrew Allner R, N
Chairman
2. Martyn Coffey
Chief Executive
3. Jack Clarke
Finance Director
Term of office
Joined the Company and appointed to the Board
in September 2013.
Term of office
Joined the Company and appointed to the Board
on 1 October 2014.
Length of service
1 year 3 months
Independent
No
Length of service
3 months
Independent
No
Skills and experience
Wide executive leadership experience: previously
Divisional Chief Executive Officer of BDR Thermea Group
BV, a leading manufacturer and distributor of domestic
and industrial heating and hot water systems operating
in 70 countries and with a turnover of €1.8 billion, formed
in 2009 from the merger of Baxi and De Dietrich Remeha.
Prior to the merger, he was Chief Executive of the private
equity-owned Baxi Group. Also held the position of
Managing Director of Pirelli Cables where he spent
14 years in the UK, Australia and North America.
Holds a BSc in Mathematics.
Skills and experience
Chartered Accountant. Joined Marshalls from AMEC plc,
where he was Executive Vice President and Director of
Change Management. He has extensive experience in
managing international operations, having previously
served as CFO of AMEC’s £850 million power and process
division and its US$1.5 billion environment and
infrastructure division. He has extensive M&A experience.
Previous experience includes senior finance and
operational management roles with Halliburton and
Mobil Oil. Holds an MSc (Civil Engineering) and BA
(Economics and Management).
External appointments
Director of the Mineral Products Association and
Non-Executive Director of Eurocell plc.
External appointments
None
Term of office
Joined the Board in July 2003; appointed as Chairman
in May 2010. Last re-elected in May 2014. Also chairs
the Nomination Committee.
Length of service
11 years 6 months (3 years 6 months as Chairman)
Independent
Yes (on appointment as Chairman)
Skills and experience
Significant current listed company Board experience,
as Chairman and as a Non-Executive Director: also
previously Non-Executive Director of AZ Electronic
Materials SA (until 2014) and CSR plc (until 2013).
Previous executive roles include Group Finance Director
of RHM plc, taking a lead role in its flotation in July 2005
on the London Stock Exchange, and CEO of Enodis plc.
Also held senior executive positions with Dalgety plc,
Amersham International plc and Guinness plc.
Chartered Accountant, former partner of Price
Waterhouse. Graduate of the University of Oxford.
External appointments
Chairman of The Go-Ahead Group plc and Fox Marble
Holdings plc, and Non-Executive Director and Chairman
of the Audit Committee at Northgate plc.
32
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Corporate Governance 4. Alan Coppin A, R, N
Senior Independent
Non‑Executive Director
Chairman of the
Remuneration Committee
5. Mark Edwards A, R, N
Non‑Executive Director
Chairman of the Audit Committee
Term of office
Appointed in May 2010. Last re-elected in May 2014.
Term of office
Appointed in May 2010. Last re-elected in May 2014.
Length of service
3 years 6 months
Length of service
3 years 6 months
Independent
Yes
Skills and experience
Significant cross-sector governance and management
experience, including previous Non-Executive
directorships at Berkeley Homes plc, Capital and
Regional plc and Carillion plc. Previously Chairman of
the Prince’s Foundation for the Built Environment. Alan
is a Companion of the Chartered Management Institute.
External appointments
Crown Representative in the Cabinet Office (Efficiency
and Reform Group), Trustee and Chairman of the
Campaign Board for the RAF Museums and Patron
of the Windsor Leadership Trust.
Independent
Yes
Skills and experience
Current CEO of AIM Altitude, a leading supplier
of cabin interiors on Boeing and Airbus aircraft.
Chartered Accountant with a strong operating
background gained in the USA, Europe and Asia.
Formerly Chief Executive of the Baxi Group and Vice
President of the Construction Products Association.
External appointments
Chief Executive of AIM Altitude group of companies
and Chairman of Atlas Fine Wines.
6. Tim Pile A, R, N
Non‑Executive Director
Term of office
Appointed in October 2010. Last re-elected in May 2014.
Length of service
3 years 3 months
Independent
Yes
Skills and experience
Executive Chairman of Cogent Elliott, the leading
independent marketing agency; extensive cross-sector
leadership and business experience, particularly in
marketing and financial services, formerly Chief Executive
Officer of Sainsbury's Bank. Previous Non-Executive
Director roles include Cancer Research UK.
External appointments
Non-Executive Director of The Royal Orthopaedic
Hospital, President of the Greater Birmingham
Chambers of Commerce, Director of the Library of
Birmingham and Governor of Bromsgrove School.
David Sarti
Chief Operating Officer
(retired December 2014)
Ian Burrell
Finance Director
(retired October 2014)
Term of office
Joined the Board in November 2004. Retired from the
Board and as COO in December 2014.
Term of office
Appointed in June 2001. Retired from the Board and as
Finance Director in October 2014.
Independent
No
Independent
No
Skills and experience
Chartered Director, wide business experience,
formerly strategy consultant with Accenture.
External appointments
Until December 2014, Non-Executive Director of the
British Pre-Cast Concrete Federation Limited and also
Non-Executive Director of a private group of
companies in the distribution and retail sector.
Skills and experience
Chartered Accountant, held a number of senior
financial positions in industry, including that of Group
Finance Director at Cornwell Parker plc, before joining
the Company. He also chairs the board of the
Company’s Pension Scheme Trustee.
External appointments
Chair of the Board of Leeds Trinity University.
7. Cathy Baxandall
Group Company Secretary
Term of office
Appointed in July 2008.
Skills and experience
In addition to her role as Company Secretary, Cathy
is General Counsel to the Marshalls group and has
responsibility for compliance and the risk register.
She has previous experience as Company Secretary
and Group Counsel with Silentnight Group, Thistle
Hotels plc and Jacuzzi (UK). Qualified in the City with
Clifford Chance before becoming a partner in a
national law firm, specialising in banking and
corporate law. Graduate of the University of Oxford.
External appointments
Charity Trustee and Board member of Ilkley Literature
Festival, the Open College of the Arts and Yorkshire
Youth & Music.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
33
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Corporate Governance Statement
Chairman's introduction
Dear Shareholder
This Corporate Governance Statement, together with the Reports of
the Audit and Remuneration Committees on pages 43 to 64, explains
how Marshalls’ governance framework works and how we apply the
principles of business integrity, high ethical values and professionalism
in all our activities. As a Board, we recognise that we are accountable to
shareholders for good corporate governance, and we seek to promote
consistently high standards of governance throughout the Group
which are recognised and understood by all.
Good governance involves good and effective leadership, robust
systems and processes that are regularly tested, and a good
understanding of risk and risk appetite. The Board seeks to add value
through constructive dialogue and challenge, engagement with
shareholders and other stakeholders, and with a strong focus on the
strategic agenda. I have commented on our key strategic priorities in
my Chairman's Statement and there is a summary of Group Strategy
on pages 14 and 15 of the Strategic Report.
The Board recognises the benefit of diversity in its composition.
We have refocused on this following the recent period of transition
in the senior Executive management of the business, which I am
pleased to report has been effectively and smoothly handled through
our Board Nomination and Remuneration Committees. Given the
importance we ascribe to Board development, our progress in this
area is highlighted in my Chairman's Statement.
This Corporate Governance Statement, which is part of the Directors’
Report, has been prepared in accordance with the principles of the UK
Corporate Governance Code published in September 2012 (the “Code”)
which the Board fully supports. We consider that the Company has
complied with the relevant provisions of the Code throughout the year
in all material respects. We have also considered and applied the
principles of the UK Corporate Governance Code published in
September 2014 which the Board fully supports. I can also confirm that
in the opinion of the Directors these Annual Financial Statements
present a fair, balanced and understandable assessment of the Group’s
position and prospects and provide the information necessary for
shareholders to assess the Group’s position and performance, business
model and strategy. The respective responsibilities of the Directors and
the Auditor in connection with the Financial Statements are explained
in the Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities and the Auditor’s Report
on pages 41 to 42 and 67 to 68 respectively.
Andrew Allner
Chairman
41
43
62
Statement of Directors’
Responsibilities page 41
Remuneration
Committee Report page 43
Audit Committee Report
page 62
34
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Corporate Governance Interaction between Board and Management bodies
Nomination
Committee
Remuneration
Committee
Audit
Committee
Board
Executive
Directors
Executive
Committee
Group/Corporate
support
Operational
and functional
management
Chairman and CEO Terms of Reference
www.marshalls.co.uk
Committee Terms of Reference
www.marshalls.co.uk
Role of the Board
The Board currently comprises an independent Non-Executive
Chairman, 3 Non-Executive Directors, and 2 Executive Directors
(reducing from 3 upon David Sarti’s retirement) who are equally
responsible for the proper stewardship and leadership of the
Company. Their biographical details are on pages 32 and 33.
There is a formal Schedule of Matters Reserved for decisions
of the Board. This is reviewed annually and includes:
— approving and monitoring progress of strategy,
business plans and budgets;
— approving any changes to capital, constitution
or corporate structure;
— approving the annual and half-yearly accounts, and approval
and monitoring of the internal financial control system, risk
management, health and safety and anti-bribery policies
and procedures;
— Board appointments and succession planning, and setting
terms of reference for Board Committees;
— approving transactions of significant value or
major strategic importance; and
— remuneration matters including major changes to pension
schemes, and the introduction of share and incentive schemes,
and the general framework of remuneration.
The Board has delegated specific responsibilities to the Audit,
Remuneration and Nomination Committees. The Audit Committee
Report on pages 62 to 64 provides details of how the Board applies
the Code in relation to membership, Terms of Reference, Committee
proceedings, financial reporting, risk management and internal
controls. The Remuneration Report on pages 43 to 61 gives details
of Executive Directors’ remuneration and policy. The Nomination
Committee's work is commented on in this report (page 39).
Other Board Committees are established periodically for particular
purposes. For example, during the year, Board Committees were
established to approve dividend payments and preliminary and
half-yearly announcements.
Day-to-day management and the implementation of strategies
agreed by the Board is delegated to the Executive Directors. The Group’s
reporting structure below Board level is designed so that all decisions are
made by the most appropriate people in a timely manner. Management
teams report to members of the Executive Committee. This committee
currently consists of 7 senior managers, including the two Executive
Directors, and the Board receives regular updates from this Committee
in relation to business issues and developments. These policies and
procedures collectively enable the Board to make informed decisions
on a range of key issues including strategy and risk management.
The interaction between these bodies is illustrated in the chart
to the left.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
35
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Corporate Governance Statement continued
Roles of the Chairman, Chief Executive
and Non‑Executive Directors
The positions of Chairman and Chief Executive are held by separate
individuals with a clear division of responsibilities and written Terms
of Reference. The Chairman leads the Board and sets its agenda,
ensuring that all Directors, particularly the Non-Executive Directors,
are able to make an effective contribution, and ensures that there
is a constructive relationship between the Executive and the
Non-Executive Directors. The Chief Executive has responsibility
for all operational matters which include the implementation
of strategy and policies approved by the Board.
The Senior Independent Non-Executive Director is responsible for
providing a sounding board for the Chairman and is an intermediary
for other Non-Executive Directors. He is also available to shareholders
if they have concerns which are not resolved through the normal
channels of contact.
The Chairman and the Non-Executive Directors were independent
on appointment, and the Board considers each of the Non-Executive
Directors to be independent in character and judgement in accordance
with the principles of the Code.
At least once a year the Chairman holds a meeting with the
Non-Executive Directors without the Executive Directors being
present. The Non-Executive Directors also meet annually without the
Chairman being present to appraise the Chairman’s performance.
Directors are able to ensure that any concerns they raise about the
running of the Company or a proposed action is recorded in the
Board minutes. If a Non-Executive Director did have any such
concerns on resignation the Chairman would invite that Director
to provide a written statement for circulation to the Board.
Conflicts of interest
The Board has adopted procedures for the authorisation of existing
situations and for considering (and authorising where appropriate)
new situations which may give rise to a conflict of interest. These
are recorded in a Conflicts Register, reviewed by the Nomination
Committee at least annually. The Nomination Committee has
delegated authority to make recommendations on any situation
notified to the Board in future. Currently, the only situations
authorised are the holding by Directors of directorships or similar
offices with companies or organisations not connected with the
Company where the Board has not identified any actual conflict
of interest. The Board has reviewed the procedures and is satisfied
that they are operating effectively.
Board composition, commitment
and election of Directors
The Nomination Committee leads the process for Board
appointments and makes recommendations to the Board. We believe
our Board is of sufficient size and has an appropriate balance of skills
and experience to meet the needs of the business. Individual director
evaluations, succession planning and the work of the Nomination
Committee are commented on further in the Nomination Committee
section of this report.
On appointment, Board members, in particular the Chairman and the
Non-Executive Directors, disclose their other commitments, and agree
to allocate sufficient time to the Company to discharge their duties
effectively and ensure that these other commitments do not affect
their contribution. The current Board commitments of the Chairman
and of the remaining members of the Board are shown on pages 32
and 33. Any conflicts of interest are dealt with in accordance with the
Board conflicts procedures.
The Company’s Articles of Association contain powers of removal,
appointment, election and re-election of Directors and provide that at
least one-third of the Board must retire at each Annual General Meeting
and each Director must retire by rotation every three years. In practice,
the Company requires all Directors to stand for re-election at each
Annual General Meeting. Martyn Coffey was elected at the Company’s
2014 Annual General Meeting following his appointment in 2013, and
both he and Jack Clarke, who joined the Board in October 2014, will
stand for re-election and election respectively at the Annual General
Meeting in May 2015. All Non-Executive Directors will also stand for
re-election or election at the 2015 Annual General Meeting. David Sarti
and Ian Burrell both retired from the Board during 2014. The terms of
appointment of the current Directors are reported on page 49 and the
Directors’ biographical details on pages 32 and 33 show their length
of service on the Board.
Board induction, development and support
New Directors receive a full, formal, and tailored induction on joining
the Board. There is an induction pack for new Directors incorporating
the Company’s constitutional and governance documents, Group
policies and other key information. Directors receive training on the
use of our electronic board packs, and other tailored training may be
arranged to meet individual needs, for example to refresh knowledge
of the Listing Rules and regulatory compliance. Typically, a new Director
will meet the Chairman and other Non-Executive Directors in one-on-one
sessions: he or she will have meetings with key management, briefings
with external advisers and shareholders, and a programme of site visits
will be arranged at which the Director meets site-based staff to gain
a full understanding of the business. In the case of Martyn Coffey
and Jack Clarke, meetings were also arranged to reflect the Group’s
key external relationships with customers, suppliers and other
service providers.
All Directors receive training as part of the annual Board programme,
which seeks to incorporate a range of in-depth topics of particular
relevance to the business. Directors are also expected to attend external
courses and seminars as appropriate to maintain and develop their
Board competencies. During 2014, on-site training relating to Health
and Safety was provided, and Directors were also given presentations in
relation to market trends, international growth and our specialist
businesses. Training needs are identified through the Board evaluation
process and through individual reviews between the Directors and the
Chairman. Non-Executive Directors would be available to meet major
shareholders if a meeting were requested.
36
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Corporate Governance Directors have access to the advice and services of the Company
Secretary and are entitled to rely on the impartial and independent
nature of that advice and those services. The Company Secretary is
responsible for ensuring that Board procedures are complied with
and, through the Chairman, advises the Board on corporate
governance matters. Both the appointment and removal of the
Company Secretary are a matter for the Board as a whole.
The Board has an approved procedure for all Directors to take
independent professional advice at the Company’s expense. Board
Committees are provided with sufficient resources to undertake their
duties, including the option to appoint external advisers when they
deem it appropriate.
Indemnities and insurance
The Company maintains Directors’ and Officers’ Liability insurance
cover to cover legal proceedings against its Directors and Officers
acting in that capacity. The Group has also granted indemnities to its
Directors to the extent permitted by law (which are qualifying third
party indemnities within the meaning of Section 236 of the
Companies Act 2006), and these remained in force during the year in
relation to certain losses and liabilities that the Directors may incur to
third parties in the course of action as Directors or employees of the
Company, any subsidiary or associated company, or as a director of
the pension scheme Trustee. Neither the liability insurance nor the
indemnities provide cover in the event of proven fraudulent or
dishonest activity.
Board evaluation
The Company carries out a full evaluation of Board performance
and that of its 3 principal Committees annually. The 2014 evaluation
was conducted in a similar way to previous years, using a detailed
questionnaire, and one-to–one confidential discussions between
each of the Directors and the Company Secretary. The questionnaire,
which was benchmarked against external examples before the 2014
evaluation, referenced current guidance on Board effectiveness
published by the Financial Reporting Council and other external
investor bodies, such as the ABI, the Investment Association and NAPF,
as well as the Code. It was designed to stimulate thought and
discussion rather than to deliver scores, and included questions about
the effectiveness of Executive and Non-Executive Directors, and the
performance of the Chairman. The Senior Independent Director
separately reviewed the Chairman’s performance with other Non-
Executive Directors. The results of the evaluation were reviewed by the
Chairman and the Company Secretary and discussed by the Board.
The Board also reviewed the priorities identified for 2014 from the
previous 2013 evaluation process. These included Board diversity and
succession planning, auditor rotation, improvements to risk reporting
and analysis, the form and content of Board reports and changes to
the incentive structure for Executive Directors and senior
management. Good progress against all of these priorities was made
during the year. Further commentary on activity in the areas of
diversity and succession, auditor rotation and incentive scheme
changes can be found in the Nomination Committee section of this
report and in the Audit and Remuneration Committee reports.
All Directors receive training as part of
the annual Board programme, which
seeks to incorporate a range of in‑depth
topics of particular relevance to the
business. Directors are also expected
to attend external courses and seminars
as appropriate to maintain and develop
their Board competencies.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
37
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Corporate Governance Statement continued
Board evaluation continued
The key themes emerging from the 2014 evaluation have
been applied in developing specific Board objectives for 2015.
They include:
— allowing time for deeper debate on strategic issues and the
long-term strategic objectives of the Group; reviewing KPIs to
align more closely with strategic objectives, and increasing focus
on dynamic risk reporting, recognising opportunities as well as
downside risk and with particular focus on overseas risk;
— identifying particular business areas for closer review, and
increasing opportunities for Non-Executive Directors to meet
senior management below Board level through the programme
of site visits;
— developing opportunities for contact between the
Chairman and shareholders: the Board considers that current
understanding and communication of shareholder views is
good, but would like to ensure that dialogue continues to be
open and transparent and that shareholder views are fully
accounted for; and
— appointing a female Director to the Board within the next
12 months.
The Board believes that the current evaluation process works
extremely well. All Directors take the opportunity to respond fully
and frankly to the questionnaire, which is thorough and robust, with
a genuine desire to enhance overall Board performance, and the
process contains sufficient objectivity through the confidentiality
of individual responses to ensure that challenge is acknowledged
and acted upon. The Board considered whether to use an external
facilitator for the 2014 evaluation, but concluded that the evaluation
process using internal resource, led by the Company Secretary,
continues to be very effective and has demonstrably helped to
improve Board effectiveness since its inception. The Board will
consider whether an externally assessed evaluation would be
appropriate at the next review.
Board meetings
There were 7 regular Board meetings scheduled during 2014,
4 meetings of the Audit and Remuneration Committees and
1 Nomination Committee meeting. Additional meetings were held
during the year for specific purposes, including strategy planning,
succession planning, regulatory matters and training. Non-Executive
Directors also made site visits.
Ian Burrell and David Sarti attended all scheduled meetings up to the
date of their respective retirements from the Board, and Jack Clarke
attended the 2 scheduled meetings following his appointment in
October 2014. Alan Coppin was unable to attend the March 2014
Board and Nomination Committee meetings due to ill health. The
Chief Executive and Finance Director are usually invited to attend
Audit Committee meetings, although the Audit Committee also
meets the auditor without any Executive Director being present.
The Chief Executive is invited to attend Remuneration Committee
meetings where appropriate. The Company Secretary is also Secretary
to the Board Committees and attends meetings for this purpose.
Board attendance
Andrew Allner
(Non-Executive)
Ian Burrell
Jack Clarke
Martyn Coffey
Alan Coppin
(Non-Executive)
Mark Edwards
(Non-Executive)
Tim Pile
(Non-Executive)
David Sarti
Board
7/7
5/7
2/7
7/7
6/7
7/7
7/7
6/7
Audit
Committee
Remuneration
Committee
Nomination
Committee
4/4
4/4
1/1
–
–
–
4/4
4/4
4/4
–
–
–
–
4/4
4/4
4/4
–
–
–
–
0/1
1/1
1/1
–
In 2015 there are 7 Board, 4 Audit Committee, 4 Remuneration
Committee and 1 Nomination Committee meetings scheduled, and
Board members are expected to participate in additional strategy
meetings and site visits.
Performance reporting and Board information
The Group has in place a comprehensive financial review process,
including detailed annual budgets, business plans and regular
forecasting. There is a range of performance indicators which are
tracked by management on a daily, weekly and monthly basis, as
appropriate, and addressed through a programme of operational
meetings and action plans. All Directors receive regular and timely
information to enable them to perform their duties, including
information on the Group’s operational and financial performance,
customer service, health and safety performance and forward trends.
The Board reviews at each regular Board meeting the monthly
financial results, taking account of performance indicators and the
detailed annual business plan and budget. The Board also considers
forward trends and performance against other key indicators,
including areas where performance departs from forecasts and on
contingency plans. The Board reviews and discusses medium and
long-term strategy on a regular basis and meets at least annually with
the Executive Committee to review strategy and also holds separate
meetings with individual members of senior management to update
the Board on business and strategic issues. In this way, the Board
assesses the prospects of the Group using all the information at its
disposal, and considering historic performance, forecast performance
for the current year, and longer term forecasts over the 3-5 year
business planning cycle as appropriate. In approving these accounts
the Board has considered these matters in detail. The Board has
a reasonable expectation that the Group is able to continue in
operation and meet its liabilities as they fall due for at least the next
12 months.
38
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Corporate Governance Risk management and internal control
The Board acknowledges its responsibility for determining the nature
and extent of the significant risks it is willing to take in achieving its
strategic objectives, and for the Group’s system of internal control.
The Board has carried out a review of the effectiveness of the Group’s
risk management and internal controls systems, including financial,
operational and compliance controls. The Strategic Report comments
in detail (pages 18 to 20) on the nature of the principal risks facing the
Group, in particular those that would threaten our business model,
future performance, solvency or liquidity and the measures in place
to mitigate them. In conducting its review, the Board has included a
robust assessment of these risks. The Audit Committee Report on
pages 62 to 64 describes the internal control system and how it is
managed and monitored. The Board acknowledges that such systems
are designed to manage, rather than eliminate, the risk of failure to
achieve business objectives and can only provide reasonable and not
absolute assurance against material misstatement or loss.
Relations with shareholders
The Board places great emphasis on good communications with
shareholders. The Chief Executive and Finance Director meet regularly
with major shareholders to discuss the Group’s performance, strategic
issues and shareholder investment objectives, and also periodically
arrange site visits for investors. Reports of these meetings and any
shareholder communications during the year are provided to the
Board. During 2014, 83 such meetings were held, at which at least
47 institutional shareholders were represented.
The Board also regularly receives copies of analysts’ and brokers’
briefings. The Chairman is available to meet major shareholders on
request to discuss governance and strategy, and held a number of such
meetings during 2014. The Senior Independent Director is also available
to meet shareholders separately if requested. When appropriate, the
Non-Executive Directors attend meetings or site visits with major
shareholders. There is a regular reporting and announcement schedule
to ensure that matters of importance affecting the Group are
communicated to investors, and the Annual and Half-yearly Reports,
together with the Marshalls website, are substantial means of
communication with all shareholders during the year.
During 2014, both the Chairman and Alan Coppin in his capacity
as Chairman of the Remuneration Committee held meetings
and consultations with shareholders in relation to remuneration
policy, with particular focus on the design and introduction of the
new Management Incentive Plan approved in May 2014. There is
further comment on this process in the Remuneration Report.
Annual General Meeting
The Notice of Annual General Meeting is despatched to shareholders,
together with explanatory notes or a circular on items of special
business, at least 20 working days before the meeting. It is the
Company’s practice to propose separate resolutions on each
substantially separate issue including a resolution relating to the
Report and Accounts, and to put all resolutions to an electronic poll
at the Annual General Meeting. All Directors normally attend the
meeting, including the Chairs of the Audit, Remuneration and
Nomination Committees, who are available to answer questions.
The Board welcomes questions from shareholders who have an
opportunity to raise issues informally or formally before or at the
Annual General Meeting.
For each resolution the proxy appointment forms provide shareholders
with the option to direct their proxy vote either for or against the
resolution or to withhold their vote. The proxy form and any
announcement of the results of a vote make it clear that a ‘vote
withheld’ is not a vote in law and will not be counted in the calculation
of the proportion of the votes for and against the resolution.
All valid proxy appointments are properly recorded and counted.
Information on the number of shares represented by proxy, the proxy
votes for and against each resolution, and the number of shares in
respect of which the vote was withheld for each resolution, together
with the voting result, are given at the meeting and made available
on the Company’s website.
Nomination Committee Report
The Board has an established Nomination Committee which is
normally chaired by Andrew Allner except where it is dealing with
his own re-appointment or replacement. The members are the
Non-Executive Directors as shown on pages 32 and 33.
The role of the Nomination Committee includes:
— Board succession planning, including reviewing the size,
composition, balance of skills and experience, and giving
due weight to the achievement of diversity in its widest sense;
— recruitment and induction of candidates for appointment
to the Board;
— reviewing individual performance evaluation outcomes relating
to Directors standing for election or re-election in advance of the
Annual General Meeting; and
— monitoring conflicts, reviewing the Board conflicts policy,
maintaining the conflicts register, and considering any
new notifications.
The performance of the Committee was evaluated as part of the
Board evaluation process in 2014, and the Terms of Reference were
also reviewed.
During the year the Nomination Committee held one scheduled
meeting, and additional meetings and discussions in connection
with succession planning and recruitment were held by telephone.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
39
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Corporate Governance Statement continued
Succession planning
The Nomination Committee’s priorities during 2014 included
overseeing the recruitment of a successor to Ian Burrell, who retired
in October 2014 as Finance Director. The Committee worked with an
external search consultant, Lygon, which has no connection with the
Company other than the provision of the Board search services
described in this report, to seek suitable candidates and develop
a shortlist, and the Committee then went through a detailed and
intensive assessment, resulting in the appointment of Jack Clarke,
who joined the Board on 1 October 2014. Jack Clarke brings further
strength to the Board and the Executive management team
through his extensive experience of international business and
significant corporate transactions, and has quickly gained a rounded
understanding of the business following a thorough induction
programme. Ian Burrell remains an employee until June 2015 and as
Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Marshalls pension scheme,
to support an orderly and smooth handover.
Non-Executive Directors are appointed for specific terms, subject
to re-appointment and the Company’s Articles of Association and
subject to the Companies Act provisions relating to the removal
of a Director. During 2014, the Committee agreed a framework
for succession planning with the current Non-Executive Directors
designed to phase future departures, so that the composition
of the Board can be refreshed whilst assuring continuity.
The Board has in previous reports made clear its intention to recruit
a female Director, but considered that it would not be appropriate
to pursue this actively during the recent transitional period and
the handover to the new Executive management team. Following
the appointment of Martyn Coffey and Jack Clarke, we renewed
our search for a suitable additional Non-Executive Director with
complimentary skills and experience. Working with Lygon this
process has been rigorous and objective and we expect to be making
an announcement to coincide with the publication of this Report.
Re‑appointment of Directors
Each Non-Executive Director was, on joining, provided with
a detailed description of his role and responsibilities, and received
a detailed business induction, and all Directors have an annual
one-to-one development review meeting with the Chairman
to appraise performance, set personal objectives and discuss any
development and training needs to enable them to continue to add
value to the Board. Before any Director is proposed for re-election,
or has their appointment renewed, the Committee conducts a review
to provide assurance that the Director continues to be effective and
demonstrates commitment to the role. The Chairman provides
an explanation to shareholders as to why the Director should be
re-elected and confirming that a formal performance evaluation
has taken place when the resolution to re-elect is circulated.
It is the Company's policy that Executive Directors can only hold one
external company Non-Executive Directorship. Voluntary service on
the Governing Board of a social, trade or charitable organisation is
also permitted. Details of the external appointments held by the
Executive Directors are included in the biographical notes on
pages 32 and 33.
Governance
The Committee has acted in accordance with the principles of
the UK Corporate Governance Code in developing and applying
its succession plans and policies. The Committee’s effectiveness,
including the effective application of those principles, is assessed
as part of the annual Board evaluation process. The evaluation
concluded that the Committee had been successful in securing a
good mix of skills and experience in the composition of the current
Board. The transition to the current Executive team following the
retirement of three Executive Directors within the last two years has
been smoothly and successfully executed without disruption to the
business. Having put in place a succession framework for the
Non-Executive Directors, this should allow phased refreshment of
skills, experience and diversity to support the needs of the business
and its stakeholders in the future.
Andrew Allner
Chairman
40
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Corporate Governance Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities in Respect of the
Annual Report and the Financial Statements
The Directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report and
the Group and Parent Company Financial Statements in accordance
with applicable law and regulations.
Company law requires the Directors to prepare Group and Parent
Company Financial Statements for each financial year. Under that
law they are required to prepare the Group Financial Statements
in accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the EU and applicable law,
and have elected to prepare the Parent Company Financial
Statements in accordance with UK Accounting Standards, including
FRS 101 "Reduced Disclosure Framework".
Under company law the Directors must not approve the Financial
Statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair
view of the state of affairs of the Group and Parent Company and of
their profit or loss for that period. In preparing each of the Group and
Parent Company Financial Statements, the Directors are required to:
— select suitable accounting policies and then
apply them consistently;
— make judgements and estimates that are reasonable
and prudent;
— for the Group Financial Statements, state whether they have
been prepared in accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the EU;
— for the Parent Company Financial Statements, state whether
applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed,
subject to any material departures disclosed and explained
in the Parent Company Financial Statements; and
— prepare the Financial Statements on the going concern basis
unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Group and the
Parent Company will continue in business.
The Directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting
records that are sufficient to show and explain the Parent Company's
transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy, at any time, the
financial position of the Parent Company and enable them to ensure
that its Financial Statements comply with the Companies Act 2006.
They have general responsibility for taking such steps as
are reasonably open to them to safeguard the assets of the
Group and to prevent and detect fraud and other irregularities.
Under applicable law and regulations, the Directors are also
responsible for preparing a Strategic Report, Directors' Report,
Directors' Remuneration Report and Corporate Governance
Statement that comply with that law and those regulations.
The Directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of
the corporate and financial information included on the Company's
website. Legislation in the UK governing the preparation and
dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation
in other jurisdictions.
Responsibility statement of the Directors of the
annual financial report
The Directors who held office at the date of approval of this Directors'
Report and whose names and functions are listed on pages 32 and 33
confirm that, to the best of each of their knowledge:
— the Financial Statements prepared in accordance with the
applicable set of accounting standards, give a true and fair view
of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit of the Company
and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken
as a whole; and
— the Strategic Report contained in this Annual Report includes a
fair review of the development and performance of the business
and the position of the Company and the Group taken as a
whole, together with a description of the principal risks and
uncertainties that they face.
The Directors consider the Annual Report and Financial Statements,
taken as a whole, to be fair, balanced and understandable and
provides the information necessary for shareholders to assess the
Group's position and performance, business model and strategy.
Disclosure of information to the auditor
The Directors who held office at the date of approval of this
Directors’ Report confirm that, so far as they are each aware, there
is no relevant audit information of which the Company’s Auditor
is unaware, and each Director has taken all the steps that he ought
to have taken as a Director to make himself aware of any relevant
audit information and to establish that the Company’s Auditor is
aware of that information.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
41
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities in Respect of the
Annual Report and the Financial Statements continued
Going concern
The Directors have adopted the going concern basis in preparing
these Financial Statements in accordance with “Going Concern
and Liquidity Risk: Guidance for Directors of UK Companies 2009”
published by the Financial Reporting Council in October 2009.
The Directors considered that it was appropriate to do so, having
reviewed any material uncertainties that may affect the Company’s
ability to continue as a going concern for the next 12 months from
the date these Financial Statements were approved.
Cautionary statement and Directors’ liability
This Annual Report 2014 has been prepared for, and only for,
the members of the Company, as a body, and no other persons.
Neither the Company nor the Directors accept or assume any liability
to any person to whom this Annual Report is shown or into whose
hands it may come except to the extent that such liability arises and
may not be excluded under English law. Accordingly, any liability to
a person who has demonstrated reliance on any untrue or misleading
statement or omission shall be determined in accordance with
Section 90A of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000.
This Annual Report contains certain forward-looking statements with
respect to the Group’s financial condition, results, strategy, plans and
objectives. These statements are not forecasts or guarantees of future
performance and involve risk and uncertainty because they relate to
events and depend upon circumstances that will occur in the future.
There are a number of factors that could cause actual results or
developments to differ materially from those expressed, implied
or forecast by these forward looking statements. All forward-looking
statements in this Annual Report are based on information known
to the Group as at the date of this Annual Report and the Group
has no obligation publicly to update or revise any forward looking
statements, whether as a result of new information or future events.
Nothing in this Annual Report should be construed as a profit forecast.
Annual General Meeting
The Notice convening the Annual General Meeting to be held
at The Cedar Court Hotel, Ainley Top, Huddersfield HD3 3RH at
11.00 am on Wednesday 20 May 2015 together with explanatory
notes on the resolutions to be proposed is contained in a circular
to be sent to shareholders with this Annual Report.
By Order of the Board
Cathy Baxandall
Group Company Secretary
6 March 2015
42
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Corporate Governance Remuneration Committee Report
Chairman's introduction
Our Remuneration Policy was approved at the Company's
Annual General Meeting on 14 May 2014 and is intended
to apply for 3 years. This Report summarises the key
features of the Policy applied in 2014. The full policy can
be found in the Company's 2013 Remuneration Report,
accessible via the Investor Relations section of our website
(www.marshalls.co.uk).
Alan Coppin
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee
Our aim, in updating our Executive
incentive structure in 2014, was to
achieve closer alignment with our
strategic objectives and to increase
the proportion of variable pay taken
in the form of long term shares or
share equivalents. Following the
introduction of the MIP, almost
three quarters of the maximum
opportunity for Directors now
takes the form of shares."
Remuneration Committee members
— Alan Coppin - Chairman
— Andrew Allner
— Mark Edwards
— Tim Pile
I am pleased to report to you on the Remuneration Committee’s
activities and objectives during 2014. This Report is divided into
3 sections: the Chairman’s Annual Statement (this introduction); a
summary of our Remuneration Policy; and our Annual Remuneration
Report, explaining how the policy was implemented during 2014.
The main focus of the Committee’s work in the latter part of 2013
and early 2014 was to review and update our Executive incentive
structure. In doing this, our aims were:
— to achieve closer alignment with our strategic objectives;
— to simplify the incentive structure while retaining flexibility
to address changing market conditions;
— to increase the proportion of variable pay awarded in shares
or share equivalents; and
— to meet new regulatory and best practice guidelines
on remuneration.
In May 2014 we introduced the new Management Incentive Plan (“MIP”),
which replaced both the annual deferred bonus plan (the “PIP”) and the
Group’s 2005 Long Term Incentive Plan (“2005 LTIP”) as our means of
delivering future performance-related variable incentives. The MIP, which
was approved by a substantial majority of our shareholders, is designed
to incorporate current “best practice” remuneration principles, and
includes an additional 2-year holding period for share awards vesting
after 3 years. It also contains appropriate clawback and malus provisions
both during and after vesting. Before proposing the MIP to shareholders,
there was an extensive and detailed consultation with our major
shareholders, resulting in modifications to the design to
accommodate shareholder feedback. In particular, the overall maximum
percentage of salary was reduced, and an underpin was applied to the
long-term share award (Element B), an element of which provides for
forfeiture (50%) if, during the period before vesting, EPS falls below a
pre-determined base level. Following introduction of the MIP, 70 per
cent of Directors’ maximum variable remuneration takes the form of
shares or share equivalents.
We also formalised our Remuneration Policy and put it to a
shareholder vote in 2014. The Policy was approved with a strong
majority of over 87 per cent of all votes cast. The Committee considers
that remuneration practice during the year has been consistent
with the Policy and that it remains appropriate. The Committee has
considered the new Code, and believes that the level of minimum
shareholding requirement is sufficient. There is a 2 year holding
period following the vesting of Element B MIP awards which
continues post cessation of employment. Consequently we do not
propose to re-submit the Policy to a vote at the 2015 AGM, although
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
43
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Remuneration Committee Report continued
How we performed in 2014
Strategic objective
Measure
Expressed as
Outcome
Maximise operational efficiencies and increase output
to meet demand
Profit / cash
EPS / net debt
Operating profit: £25.3m (+57%);
EPS: 10.13p (+46%); Gearing 16.8%
Retain market-leading position and grow profit
Profit
EPS
Grow international business profitably
International sales
International sales turnover
Strengthen the brand, develop trust and excellence
Customer service
Customer service index
EPS: 10.13p (+46%)
£22.1m (+ 27%)
97%
Grow sustainably, investing in our people and
protecting their well-being
Health & safety
Health & safety
accident reduction
30% reduction year on year
we have included the key features of the Policy in this report for
reference. The Annual Remuneration Report and this Chair’s Annual
Statement will be subject to an advisory vote of shareholders.
Our remuneration policy aims to encourage behaviours that will
ensure the sustainability and long term health of the business and
avoid inappropriate risk-taking, while recognising and rewarding the
creation of shareholder value. Remuneration targets are designed to
support the delivery of our key strategic objectives. Our remuneration
packages also need to be appropriate to attract, motivate and retain
talent, both at Executive Director level and throughout the business.
Our strategic objectives in 2014 were focused on maximising our
operational efficiencies to meet growing demand, retaining our
market-leading position through innovation in products and services,
and growing profitably our international business. The financial targets
set at the beginning of 2014 for MIP awards were based on achievement
of significant improvements in EPS, net debt and International sales, as
the proxies for measuring progress against these objectives. Our brand,
market leadership and sustainability objectives were incorporated
through the addition of non-financial criteria (customer service and
health and safety improvement) with a discount factor of 20 per cent
if they were not met.
At the time of grant, the targets set for maximum performance took
account of the "best case" consensus expectations of our shareholders
and set targets to incorporate significant stretch against these expectations
and the Group's budget for the year. I am delighted that our performance
against these objectives in 2014 has been very strong, with EPS up by
46 per cent from 6.94 pence to 10.13 pence and net debt reducing from
£35.6 million to £30.5 million. International sales also grew strongly from
a low base. This outcome means that 2014 awards will be at the
Meetings
Matters discussed
maximum end of the designated range for EPS and net debt and will fall
just short of the maximum target for International sales. The health and
safety and customer service targets were achieved. Share price rose by
33 per cent from 176.25 pence to 234.0 pence during the year and the
dividend has increased by 14 per cent in line with our dividend policy.
This very positive performance in 2014 is reflected in the level of
Element A and Element B awards earned under the MIP; it will also
affect the levels of vesting of previous incentive awards under the
2005 LTIP and allow deferred PIP balances to be paid. Details of
Directors’ awards earned in 2014 and the performance measures
used are shown in the Annual Remuneration Report.
The other area of focus in 2014 for the Committee related to the
recruitment of Jack Clarke as Group Finance Director, who joined us in
October 2014 following Ian Burrell’s retirement from the Board, and the
exercise of discretions under the Policy in relation to Ian Burrell and
David Sarti, Group Operations Director, who retired in December 2014.
Both Ian Burrell and David Sarti qualify as “good leavers” and will
receive a proportionate element of their share incentive awards
following retirement, details of which are disclosed in the Annual
Remuneration Report. Details of Graham Holden’s “good leaver”
awards that became payable following his retirement as Chief
Executive in October 2013 were included in the 2013 Annual Report.
Main activities of the Committee
During 2014 the Committee met 4 times, and there were additional
discussions and meetings with shareholders and with external
remuneration consultants ("PwC"). The Chief Executive and the
Company Secretary attend Committee meetings where appropriate.
Attendance at meetings is shown on page 38.
February-March 2014
Set overall Remuneration Policy. MIP: consider outcomes of shareholder consultation; finalisation of MIP
design and determination of 2014 performance targets. Measure achievement of incentive targets for
2013 and approve payments under incentive schemes. Approve individual awards for 2014. Review 2013
Remuneration Committee Report. Review Board expenses paid.
April-July 2014
Review application of Remuneration Policy for retiring Directors and other “good leavers” and remuneration
package and incentive awards for new joiners.
September-October 2014
Approve new FD package, including introductory MIP and LTIP awards. External advisers’ recommendations
on remuneration framework, including benchmarking (Executive Directors and Non-Executive Directors);
report on pay and benefit conditions elsewhere in the business. Consider appropriateness of Remuneration
Policy and design of incentive schemes. Review termination obligations arising under service contracts.
December 2014
Approval of proposed pay and benefits for Executive Directors in 2015. Board review of Non-Executive
Directors’ fees (other than Chairman’s). Board expenses policy review. Review and update Committee terms
of reference. Evaluate Committee performance.
44
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Corporate Governance Application of policy and any changes
Decision
Rationale
Element (fixed)
Salary
2.9% salary increase for current Executive Directors; Non-Executive
Directors’ fees also rose by 2.9%, both with effect from January
2015. FD role recruited at less than targeted policy level;
Committee reserves right to increase FD salary by more than
average once he is established in the role.
2015 increase reflects 2.9% inflation award for the workforce
as a whole.
Benefits
No overall change in range of benefits.
The current range and level of benefits remains appropriate.
NED fixed travel allowance replaced by business expense
reimbursement procedure.
Martyn Coffey continues to receive travel and accommodation
expenses within his 3 year allowance.
Jack Clarke also receives travel and accommodation expenses
pending his relocation.
Simpler and more cost-effective for business expenses to be
reimbursed retrospectively following change in frequency and
location of Board meetings.
Pension
Increased CEO annual pension contribution from fixed sum (£75k)
to 20% of salary from January 2015.
To bring into line with Policy and other Executive Directors.
Element (variable)
PIP
There are no further awards under PIP: deferred balance of previously
earned PIP accounts as at 31 December 2014 will vest in 2015.
Replaced by Element A of the MIP.
2005 LTIP
Final awards made in 2014. Replaced by Element B of the MIP.
Awards made in 2014 to bridge gap before potential vesting
of first Element B awards under MIP; these incorporate
performance targets that remain stretching, measured over
the 3 years 2014-2017 that are more closely aligned with
current strategic growth objectives.
MIP
Combines annual deferred bonus (Element A) and long term
shareholding (Element B). Details of 2014 awards are set out in the
Annual Remuneration Report. 2015 financial targets will be EPS
(75%) and Net Debt (25%).
EPS and net debt remain good measures of performance against strategic
objectives. Customer service and health and safety targets remain.
International sales now becoming established so it is not necessary
to retain a separate target, as progress will be included in overall sales.
The Committee is supportive of the Company's employee engagement agenda, part of which is to encourage wider share ownership within
the business. Resolutions to approve the introduction of an all-employee Sharesave ("SAYE") scheme and a Bonus Share Plan (under which
those in the wider operational bonus schemes other than the MIP may receive some of their bonus in the form of shares) and to extend the
current all-employee share purchase plan will be submitted for approval at the 2015 AGM.
Statement of shareholder voting
The table below shows the May 2014 AGM voting results on the resolutions relating to remuneration.
Resolution 12 (Remuneration Policy)
Resolution 13 (Remuneration Report)
Resolution 14 (2014 MIP)
For and discretion
123,630,225
132,391,079
125,607,824
Votes
Votes
Votes
For and
discretion as a
percentage of
votes cast
87.31
90.29
85.69
Against
17,973,475
14,244,807
20,981,287
Against as a
percentage of
votes cast
12.69
9.71
14.31
Withheld
5,712,750
681,564
725,040
The Committee believes the percentage of votes in favour of the Remuneration Report shows that shareholders support the Group’s
remuneration arrangements.
Remuneration disclosure
Our Remuneration Report has been prepared in accordance with the Companies Act 2008 and Schedule 8 of the Large and Medium-sized
Companies and Groups (Accounts and Reports) (Amendment) Regulations 2013. It also meets the requirements of the UK Corporate
Governance Code and the UK Listing Authority’s Listing Rules and Disclosure and Transparency Rules.
I hope you find this report helpful and informative. I will be available at the Company’s AGM on 20 May 2015 to answer any questions on our
Policy, its application and this Remuneration Report.
Allan Coppin
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
45
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Operation
Opportunity/maximum
Performance measures and period
The Remuneration Committee policy
in relation to salary is:
None.
— up to the median salary on
appointment depending
on the experience and
background of the new
Executive Director;
— on promotion, up to the
median salary for the new role;
— otherwise pay increases will not
exceed the higher of inflation
and/or pay rises generally for
Group employees; and
— individuals who are recruited
or promoted to the Board may
have their salaries set below
the targeted policy level until
they become established
in their role. In such cases
subsequent increases in salary
may be higher than the average
until the target positioning
is achieved.
None.
Package consistent with
standard practice and in line
with peer group.
The maximum value available
is the cost of the benefits.
An Executive Director’s basic salary
is considered by the Committee on
appointment and reviewed annually
or when an individual changes
position or responsibility. In
reviewing base salary, the Committee
considers remuneration practices
within the Group as a whole and,
where relevant, objective research
on companies within the Company’s
peer groups. Other factors taken into
account include:
— the individual performance
and experience of the
Executive Director;
— the general performance
of the Company; and
— the economic environment.
Salary is paid in 12 equal monthly
instalments during the year.
Benefits for Executive Directors are
a fully expensed company car, an
annual medical and private medical
insurance (including spouse and
dependent children up to age 24),
and death-in-service insurance.
Executive Directors may be entitled
to claim travel and accommodation
expenses subject to agreed limits
on appointment.
The cost of providing these benefits
is borne by the Company.
The Company may carry permanent
health insurance cover in respect of
up to 100% of an Executive Director’s
salary. Although not a benefit to
Executive Directors, this insurance
offers comfort to Executive Directors
in the event of long term ill health.
Remuneration Report
Policy summary
Element
Purpose and how it supports
the strategy
Fixed remuneration
Base salary
Recognises the market value of the
Executive’s role, skill, responsibilities,
performance and experience.
Fixed costs are minimised and
above-median level of total
remuneration is only provided where
the performance elements of the
package are earned.
Benefits
The Company provides benefits in
order to be competitive and to
ensure it is able to recruit and retain
Executive Directors.
46
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Corporate Governance Element
Pension/
pension
allowance
Purpose and how it supports
the strategy
To enable Executive Directors
to make appropriate provision
for retirement.
Variable performance-related remuneration
The Marshalls
Incentive Plan
(“MIP”)
To link variable pay to achievement
of annual financial and business
objectives.
Element A
Deferral of 50% of the balance
into share-linked units provides
shareholder alignment and enhances
retention as payment is subject
to confirmed alignment.
Significant proportion of overall
reward is in the form of shares or
share equivalent.
Operation
Opportunity/maximum
Performance measures and period
Executive Directors are entitled
to membership of the defined
contribution section of the
Marshalls plc Pension Scheme.
The Company contributes at an
agreed percentage of basic salary.
Executive Directors may take a
pensions allowance in place of
the Company’s contribution to
the Scheme.
Pension allowances are excluded
for the purposes of calculating any
other element of remuneration
based on a percentage of salary.
Annual target set by reference to
strategic and operational objectives
by Remuneration Committee.
If conditions met, 50% of earned
award paid as cash. 50% deferred as
shares into individual plan account.
50% of accrued plan account
balance paid out annually for 3
years, provided forfeiture threshold
exceeded each year, with the final
balance paid at the end of the
fourth year.
Awards subject to continued
employment at end of the period.
The forfeiture thresholds if not
achieved result in the loss of up
to 50% of unpaid awards.
There are also malus and clawback
provisions in the event of material
misstatement or fraud or an error
in the calculation of the
performance conditions.
Maximum Company
contribution is 20% of base
salary for Executive Directors.
None.
Maximum Company annual
contribution of 150% of salary
for Executive Directors.
2014 targets set for EPS, net debt and
International sales performance. 2015
targets set for EPS and net debt. The
Committee has the discretion to
change the targets and their
weightings on an annual basis.
The Committee considers that the
future targets for the MIP are
commercially sensitive as they relate
to profitability and debt limits for the
financial year to come and disclosure
in advance is not in the interests
of the Company or shareholders.
The Committee provides full
retrospective disclosure to enable
shareholders to judge the level of
award provided against the targets
set in previous years. Full disclosure
of 2014 targets and achievement levels
is made in the Annual Remuneration
Report 2014.
The Committee retains discretion in
exceptional circumstances to change
performance measures and targets
and the weightings attached to
performance measures part-way
through a performance year if there is
a significant and material event which
causes the Committee to believe the
original measures, weightings and
targets are no longer appropriate.
Discretion may also be exercised in
cases where the Committee believes
that the bonus outcome is not a
fair and accurate reflection of
business performance.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
47
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Remuneration Report continued
Element
Purpose and how it supports
the strategy
Operation
Opportunity/maximum
Performance measures and period
The targets for Element B are the same
as for Element A set out on page 47.
In addition, there is a risk of forfeiture
of 50% of this element of the award
if a minimum performance target
based on EPS is not achieved over
the 3 years between award
and vesting.
The Committee retains the same
discretion for Element B as for
Element A set out on page 47.
Full retrospective disclosure of 2014
targets and continued conditions is
set out in the Annual Remuneration
Report 2014.
Variable performance-related remuneration (continued)
MIP Element B
To link variable pay to achievement
of annual financial and business
objectives.
To promote long term shareholding
in the Company and strengthen
alignment between interests of
Executive Directors and senior
managers and those of shareholders.
Annual target set by reference to
strategic and operational objectives
by Remuneration Committee.
Awards are made annually in the
form of nil cost options or
conditional shares, and are subject
to continued employment and a
financial underpin for 3 years.
Maximum Company annual
contribution of 100% of salary for
Executive Directors.
Awards become exercisable or
unconditional after 3 years but,
once vested, may not be sold
for a further 2 years.
Participants build up a
shareholding over 5 years.
There is a financial underpin which,
if not achieved over 3 years results
in the loss of up to 50% of
unvested awards.
There are also malus and clawback
provisions in the event of material
misstatement or fraud or an error
in the calculation of the
performance conditions.
Executive Directors are required to
retain 50% of the net number of
shares earned under the Company’s
incentive arrangements until the
shareholding requirement is satisfied.
A new Executive Director may build
up the minimum requirement within
the first 5 years from the year of
joining. Failure to meet the
shareholding requirement within
5 years of appointment will result
in a reduction in the future levels
of award under the Company’s
incentive plans.
The minimum shareholding
requirement for the CEO is 200%
of salary, and the minimum for
other Executive Directors is 100%.
The Committee has discretion
to increase the level if it
deems appropriate.
Shareholding
requirement
In order to ensure a long-term
alignment between the Executive
Directors and shareholders the
Company operates a minimum
shareholding requirement for
Executive Directors.
Non‑Executive
Directors’ fees
Annual fee to attract and
retain experienced and skilled
Non-Executive Directors with
the necessary experience and
expertise to advise and assist
with establishing and monitoring
the strategic objectives of the
Company. Fees reflect the time
commitment and responsibilities
of the roles.
Terms of engagement provided
in formal letters of appointment.
Remuneration is determined
by the Board within the limits set by the
Articles of Association. The Chairman's
fee is set by the Committee. Fees are
reviewed annually and periodically
benchmarked against equivalent roles
in the same comparator groups as are
used for Executive Directors.
Additional fee paid to the
Senior Independent Director
and for Chairmanship of a
Board Committee.
Non-Executive Directors do
not receive any bonus, do not
participate in awards under the
Company’s share plans, and are
not eligible to join the Company’s
pension scheme.
Non-Executive Directors receive
a travel and accommodation
allowance in connection with
the performance of their duties,
which was a fixed sum in 2014.
The Company’s policy in relation
to fees is:
None.
— up to median level fees
on appointment depending
on the experience and
background of the new
Non-Executive Director;
— increases during a term
of office will not normally
exceed the lower of
inflation or the general
rise for employees; and
— fees may be adjusted
to recognise significant
change in responsibility
levels (for example if the
Company’s ranking as a
constituent of the FTSE
All Share Index changes).
48
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Corporate Governance Recruitment policy
Remuneration element
Policy
Base salary
Benefits
Pension
MIP
Salaries reflect the role and responsibility of the individual, using external benchmarks as a point of reference for comparative roles in line with
policy for existing Executive Directors. The Company would wherever possible aim to recruit at a salary lower than the previous salary for the same
role (except where the previous salary was below median). In exceptional circumstances the Committee may offer salaries in excess of the median
for the right candidate with an appropriate business case and in such cases will provide a full explanation to shareholders.
The Company’s standard benefit package will be offered. This may include relocation / travel and accommodation allowance where required to
attract the right candidate.
Maximum contribution on recruitment is 20% of salary.
The maximum award value is set in line with the Company’s policy for existing Executive Directors.
Maximum level of variable
remuneration
The maximum level of annual variable remuneration which may be earned by an Executive Director under the Company’s MIP is 250%
of salary.
“Buy Outs”
The Committee’s policy is not to provide buy outs as a matter of course but it reserves the right to do so where the individual circumstances
of recruitment justify the provision of a buyout broadly up to the equivalent value of the lapsed value of incentives that may be forfeited
from previous employment. To the extent that it was not possible or practical to provide the buy out within the terms of the Company’s
existing incentive plans, a bespoke arrangement would be used.
Internal recruit
An internal recruit will be permitted to keep any deferred payments or awards granted which the Company made or committed to
before his or her appointment to the Board.
The Company’s policy when setting fees for the appointment of new Non-Executive Directors is to apply the policy which applies to current
Non-Executive Directors.
Service contracts and policy on termination payments
Each Executive Director has a service contract with the Company which is terminable by the Company on not more than 12 months’ notice and
by the Director on 6 months’ notice. Directors' service contracts do not contain liquidated damages clauses. There are no contractual arrangements
that would guarantee a pension with limited or no abatement on severance or early retirement. There is no agreement between the Company
and its Directors or employees, providing for compensation for loss of office or employment that occurs because of a takeover bid.
Non-Executive Directors, including the Chairman, are appointed under letters of appointment, usually for a term of 3 years. Either the Company
or the Non-Executive Director may terminate the appointment before the end of the current term on 6 months' notice. If the unexpired term
is less than 6 months, notice does not need to be served. All Non-Executive Directors are subject to annual re-election. No compensation is
payable if a Non-Executive Director is required to stand down.
Copies of Directors’ service contracts and letters of appointment are available for inspection at the Company’s registered office on application
to the Company Secretary and will also be on display at the Company’s Annual General Meeting.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
49
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Committee discretion
The Committee retains discretion to make loss of office
payments appropriate to the circumstances and applying
the overriding principle that there should be no element
of reward for failure.
The Committee has discretion to make a lump sum payment
on termination equal to the value of the salary payable during
the notice period. In all cases the Company will seek to
mitigate any payments due.
The Committee has discretion to make a lump sum payment
on termination equal to the value of the benefits payable
during the notice period. In all cases the Company will seek to
mitigate any payments due.
The Company has discretion to make a lump sum payment
on termination equal to the value of the Company pension
contributions / allowance during the notice period. In all
cases the Company will seek to mitigate any payments due.
The Committee has discretion to determine that the reason
for termination falls within the categories described.
The Committee will only use its general discretion to
determine that an Executive Director is a “good leaver”
in exceptional circumstances and will provide a full
explanation to shareholders, if possible in advance,
of the basis for its determination.
Remuneration Report continued
Policy on termination
Remuneration element
Treatment on exit
General
When determining any loss of office payment for a departing individual the
Committee will always seek to minimise the cost to the Company whilst seeking
to reflect the circumstances at the time.
Base salary
Salary will be paid over the notice period.
Benefits
Benefits will normally be provided over the notice period.
Pension / salary
supplement
Company pension contributions / pension allowance will normally be provided
over the notice period.
Variable / performance-
related remuneration
provided under the MIP
The rules of the MIP provide that on termination of employment before the
performance measurement date or prior to the relevant vesting date, no award will
be granted in respect of the year of cessation and any subsisting entitlements will
lapse; unless the following circumstances apply:
— injury or disability;
— redundancy within the meaning of the Employment Rights Act 1996
or equivalent legislation;
— retirement by agreement with the Company;
— the Executive being employed by a company which ceases to be a
Group member;
— the Executive being employed in an undertaking or part of an undertaking
which is transferred to a person who is not a Group member; or
— any other circumstances if the Committee decides in any particular case
to treat the Executive Director as a “good leaver”.
If an Executive Director leaves in one of the above circumstances the rules provide
for the following:
Element A of the MIP
The Committee will calculate the amount of any payment pro-rated to the amount
of the plan year completed on the Executive’s date of cessation and taking into
account the level of satisfaction of the performance targets at the next performance
measurement date. Any payment is made as soon as practicable after the
determination of the level of satisfaction of the performance targets.
Deferred balances will be paid, as the performance conditions were satisfied at the
date of grant.
Element B of the MIP
In respect of the year of cessation the Committee will calculate any award pro-rated
to the amount of the plan year completed on the Executive’s date of cessation and
taking into account the level of satisfaction of the performance targets at the next
performance measurement date. Any award will be made as soon as practicable
after the determination of the level of satisfaction of the performance targets and
will remain subject to the sale restrictions.
Shares subject to subsisting awards at the date of cessation of employment vest
on the date of cessation or the next measurement date as determined by the
Committee pro-rated to the amount of the relevant vesting period completed
and subject to the proportionate satisfaction of the financial underpin on such
date provided that the shares shall remain subject to the relevant sale restrictions.
50
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Corporate Governance Annual Remuneration Report
This report covers the reporting period from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2014 and explains how the Remuneration Policy has
been implemented.
Total remuneration in 2014 ‑ Executive Directors (Audited)
Fixed (£'000)
Performance related (£'000)
Salary
Other benefits
Pension
contribution/
allowance
Annual bonus
Long term
incentives
(MIP Element A/
PIP bonus)
MIP Element B
LTIP/MIP/PIP
Total
2014
2013
2014
2013
2014
2013
2014
2013
2014
2013
2014
2013
2014
2013
184
237
58
400
217
859
–
125
237
599
8
2
21
15
46
Note a Note a
Note b
13
–
16
16
54
11
75
65
71
–
23
71
183
43
298
353
151
–
79
151
20
114
199
–
–
–
–
–
1,475
662
1,924 1,134
–
108
–
–
228
–
1,101
243
1,146
662
1,796 1,137
45
205
165
877
381
333
–
2,729 1,324 5,049 2,514
Note c
Notes d
and f
Note d
Notes e, f,
g and h
Ian Burrell
Jack Clarke
Martyn Coffey
David Sarti
Total
Notes on remuneration table
(a)
Ian Burrell retired from the Board on 1 October 2014. The table includes his remuneration for the period between 1 January and 1 October 2014. David Sarti retired from the Board on 1 December 2014.
The table includes his remuneration for the period between 1 January 2014 and 1 December 2014. Jack Clarke joined the Group and was appointed to the Board on 1 October 2014. The table
includes his remuneration for the period between 1 October and 31 December 2014. The 2013 figure for Martyn Coffey relates to the period from his joining the Board (9 September 2013)
to 31 December 2013.
(b) Benefits are car/car allowance, fuel/fuel allowance, private medical insurance, life insurance and in the case of Martyn Coffey and Jack Clarke, travel and accommodation expenses.
(c)
(d)
All Directors received a pensions allowance in lieu of contributions into the Group’s pension scheme throughout the year. No Director had any entitlement under the defined benefit section of the Pension Scheme and
no additional benefit was received as a result of early retirement.
The Annual bonus column shows 50 per cent of the total bonus contribution earned under the MIP Element A in respect of 2014 performance, and 50 per cent of the total value of Element B shares awarded which are
deferred but are not subject to further performance conditions (other than continued employment). The remaining 50 per cent in respect of 2014 Element A is deferred into shares in the MIP account which are subject to
performance and employment-based forfeiture for a further holding period. The remaining 50 per cent of 2014 Element B shares is subject to performance and employment-based forfeiture for a 3 year deferred period.
These deferred elements will be disclosed in the LTIP column when the conditions are satisfied, Note (f) explains the different treatment of “good leavers” Ian Burrell and David Sarti. For 2013, the annual PIP bonus
represents 50 per cent of the total bonus contribution made to the PIP in respect of 2013 performance.
(e) The LTIP column shows the aggregate value of:
(i)
sums released from PIP and MIP account balances from earlier years that are no longer subject to deferral and forfeiture risk; and
(ii) 2012 Performance Share awards under the 2005 LTIP that have vested by reference to the 2012-2014 vesting period.
(f) The “good leaver” entitlement in the case of Ian Burrell and David Sarti breaks down as follows:
(i) bonus released from PIP account balance carried over from 2013 in the normal course following the 2014 results (see Note (e) (i));
(ii) 2012 Performance Share awards under the LTIP that vest in the normal course following the 2014 results;
(iii)
the estimated value of 2013 and 2014 LTIP awards which vest on a pro-rata basis on the date of leaving under the “good leaver” rules; and
(iv)
the value of outstanding pro-rated MIP entitlements.
Outstanding MIP and LTIP awards have been valued in accordance with the Regulations as the number of shares/notional shares x the average share price over the last
quarter of 2014 (212.76 pence) and are summarised in the following table:
Balance of PIP
account
£’000
Balance of MIP
Element A and B
£’000
2012 LTIP(1)
£’000
2013 LTIP(1)
£’000
2014 LTIP(1)
£’000
490(2)
490(7)
203(3)
—
261(4)
261(8)
377(5)
302(9)
144(6)
93(10)
Total
£’000
1,475
1,146
Ian Burrell
David Sarti
Notes
(1) Estimated value under Regulations
(2) 230,133 shares x 212.76 pence
(3) 95,325 shares x 212.76 pence
(4) 122,511 shares x 212.76 pence
(5) 177,160 shares x 212.76 pence
(6) 67,830 shares x 212.76 pence
(7) 230,133 shares x 212.76 pence
(8) 122,511 shares x 212.76 pence
(9) 141,962 shares x 212.76 pence
(10) 43,811 shares x 212.76 pence
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
51
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information
Annual Remuneration Report continued
Setting pay in context
The following graphs illustrate the relationship between total expenditure on remuneration and other disbursements from profit over the
past 3 years.
The 4 elements in the table represent the most significant outgoings for the Company during the financial year. In addition to staff pay and
shareholder distributions, capital investment and taxation are shown for the following reasons:
— investment – the Company restricted investment during the economic downturn, but plans to invest strategically over the next period
to take advantage of the more positive economic conditions and in order to ensure that the business grows in a sustainable manner with
a corresponding long-term benefit for all stakeholders; and
— tax – the Company is a UK taxpayer and feels that it is beneficial to demonstrate to all its stakeholders its total UK tax contribution.
The most significant elements of the Company's UK tax contribution are VAT, employer's NI, fuel duty and aggregates levy.
As profitability increases, corporation tax will also increase.
Relative importance of spend on pay
—
Percentage change
+10.7%
69.2
67.1
76.6
+18.4%
60.4
51.0
50.5
+4.9%
10.3
10.3
10.8
+26.2%
12.0
9.5
6.1
2012
2013
Distributions to
shareholders (£m)
2014
2012
2014
2013
Capital investment (£m)
2012
2013
Tax (£m)
2014
Marshalls plc
FTSE Small Cap Index
2012
2013
Staff pay (£m)
2014
Total shareholder return
400
350
300
250
200
150
100
50
0
Jan 09
Dec 09
Dec 10
Dec 11
Dec 12
Dec 13
Dec 14
This chart shows the Group’s total shareholder return (“TSR”) performance compared to the FTSE Small Cap Index for the period from 1 January 2009
to 31 December 2014. TSR is defined as share price growth plus reinvested dividends. Marshalls plc was a constituent of the FTSE Small Cap Index
throughout the period illustrated. This chart shows the value at 31 December 2014 of £100 invested in Marshalls plc on 31 December 2009
compared with the value of £100 invested in the FTSE Small Cap Index. The other plotted points are the intervening financial year ends. Marshalls'
TSR performance was 36 per cent better than the overall performance of the FTSE Small Cap Index in 2014.
52
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Corporate Governance
CEO pay in last 6 years
This table shows how pay for the CEO role has changed in the last 6 years. Graham Holden was succeeded by Martyn Coffey as CEO on 10 October 2013.
Year
2009
2010
2011
2012
(Graham Holden)
£'000
(Graham Holden)
£'000
(Graham Holden)
£'000
(Graham Holden)
£'000
2013
(Graham Holden/
Martyn Coffey)
(Note a)
£'000
2014
(Martyn Coffey)
£'000
Single figure remuneration
% of maximum annual bonus earned
% of maximum LTIP awards vesting
711
46.4%
0
671
38.6%
0
752
78.1%
0
938
33.0%
0
3,143
63.6%
63.0
1,101
99.3%
0
Note (a): The 2013 single figure is made up of Graham Holden’s base salary up to 10 October 2013 of £319,000, his benefits of £10,000 and his pension allowance of £96,000. He also received PIP annual
bonus of £1,313,000, and LTIP awards, including 2012 and 2013 awards vesting early on a pro-rata basis due to good leaver status, of a value of £1,162,000 and these were included as part of the single
figure in the 2013 Annual Report. The 2013 figure also includes Martyn Coffey’s proportionate entitlement to salary, benefits and annual bonus for his period of service in 2013. Graham Holden's normal
remuneration in the year excluding accelerated payments due to his good leaver status was £1,475,000.
Percentage change in CEO's remuneration
The table below shows how the percentage change in the CEO's salary, benefits and bonus between 2013 and 2014 compares with
the percentage change in the average of each of those components of pay for the UK-based employees of the Group as a whole.
Salary
£’000
Percentage
change
(Note a)
Taxable benefits
£’000
Percentage
change
(Note a)
Bonus (note b)
£’000
Percentage
increase
2014
–
400
400
2013
319
90
409
73,412
65,402
2,131
34.4
2,041
32.0
%
N/A
N/A
(2)
12.2
4.4
7.5
2014
2013
–
21
21
304
438
0.7
10
16
26
326
454
0.7
%
N/A
N/A
(19)
(6.7)
(3.5)
(3.3)
2014
–
497
497
2,336
273
8.6
2013
262
79
341
967
272
3.6
%
N/A
N/A
46
141.4
0.4
140.5
Graham Holden
Martyn Coffey
Sub‑total
UK total pay
Number of employees
Average per employee
Notes:
(a) Figures for Graham Holden and Martyn Coffey in 2013 and 2014 have been annualised. The actual amounts received were less. Martyn Coffey’s salary was increased on 1 January 2015 by 2.9 per cent,
the same percentage increase as given to the workforce as a whole.
(b) The bonus is the non-deferred amount earned for the relevant year.
Outcomes of incentive schemes in 2014 (audited)
This section explains how 2014 performance is reflected in rewards earned under the Company’s incentive schemes.
Management Incentive Plan (“MIP”)
The MIP incorporates:
— Element A, an annual bonus award carrying a maximum of 150 per cent of salary, of which 50 per cent must be deferred into shares; and
— Element B, an award normally in the form of a nil-cost option to acquire shares, carrying a maximum of 100 per cent of salary, conditional
on continued employment for 3 years from grant and 50 per cent of which is also subject to a financial condition over the 3 year period.
Element B shares must be held for a further 2 years after vesting.
Both awards depend on achievement of the Performance Conditions set by the Committee at the date of award. The table below shows the
2014 Performance Conditions and the extent to which they have been satisfied.
Measurement
EPS
Net debt
International sales
Non-financial targets
(1) at constant exchange rates
Percentage
of maximum
contribution
based on
measurement
60%
30%
10%
20% deduction
if not met
Minimum
target
Maximum
target
2014
Actual
Percentage
of target
achieved
Percentage
of salary
earned
(Element A)
Percentage
of salary
earned
(Element B)
6.35p
£41.5m
£18.5m
95%
(Customer
service)
10% reduction
(Health and safety)
8.35p
10.13p
£36.5m £30.5m
£22.5m
£22.1m(1)
N/A
All met
100%
100%
93.5%
100%
90
45
14
60
30
9.3
No
deduction
No
deduction
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
53
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information
Annual Remuneration Report continued
Management Incentive Plan (“MIP”) continued
Performance conditions were set at the beginning of 2014 and the Committee took account of both internal budgets and external factors such as
the market consensus of investors for the full year 2014. During the year cash flow from sales improved significantly and pre-tax profit grew by
72 per cent. This performance meant that the stretching EPS and net debt targets set at the beginning of the year were achieved in full, while
the good progress shown in International sales was reflected in a 93.5 per cent achievement against target. The share price improved by 33 per
cent (31 December 2013: 176.25 pence; 31 December 2014: 234 pence) which means the value of share awards has increased.
The impact on the total annual remuneration opportunity for each of the continuing Executive Directors under the Policy is shown below.
Chief Executive
Finance Director
Key
Salary, benefits and pension
MIP Element A
MIP Element B
Key
Salary, benefits and pension
MIP Element A
MIP Element B
33%
40%
27%
Outperformance
33%
40%
27%
Outperformance
41%
35%
24%
Target
41% 35% 24%
Target
100%
Below threshold
100% Below threshold
33%
40%
27%
2014 Actual
33%
40%
27%
2014 Actual
£500
£1,000
£1,500
£2,000
£0
£500
£1,000
£1,500
£2,000
£0
Notes:
— The base salary, benefits and pension information is taken from the Single Figure Remuneration table on page 51.
— Achievement of “Target” financial conditions results in 70 per cent of the annual award under the MIP being earned.
— “Below threshold” assumes a performance that fails to meet the threshold for both Element A and Element B so is the level below which no variable pay under the MIP is earned.
— “Outperformance” represents the full 250 per cent of salary potential under the MIP.
— The Finance Director chart illustrates the outcome irrespective of the change in Finance Director during the year, as the targets for both Ian Burrell and Jack Clarke were the same.
The disclosure is, therefore, on an annualised basis.
EPS
EPS relates to our strategic objective to grow profits. The Group's profit before tax on continuing operations grew from £13.0 million to
£22.4 million. EPS from continuing operations improved from 6.94 pence in 2013 to 10.13 pence in 2014. EPS is measured using International
Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRSs") based on the audited results of the Group and subject to the discretion of the Committee with regard
to one-off items.
Net debt
Net debt is relevant for measurement of cash flow and overall sustainability. The Group's net debt at 31 December 2014 of £30.5 million was
better than the lower (better) end of the target range set by the Committee at the beginning of the year.
International sales
The Group set a specific target relating to growth of International sales, chiefly in Europe through Marshalls NV and through the recently
established sales office in North America. International sales grew to £22.1 million (at constant exchange rates), exceeding the budget but
not reaching the maximum target of £22.5 million set at the beginning of the year.
Additional performance conditions
Our customers are at the heart of our business model, and our measurement of customer service uses factors such as product availability,
on-time delivery performance and administrative and delivery accuracy to assess performance. The Group’s average customer service
performance, assessed monthly, exceeded its minimum target of 95 per cent throughout 2014. The Group also continued its excellent
performance against its stated objective of reducing days lost to accidents by 10 per cent year on year. The actual reduction in days lost
to accidents year on year was 29.6 per cent. Had these two targets not been met, the overall level of MIP award would have reduced by
20 per cent; the achievement of these measures means that no reduction factor will apply.
54
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Corporate Governance MIP awards 2014
Element A
Plan accounts
2014 contribution (% of salary earned)
Value
2014 element released (Note a)
Closing balance (deferred into shares)
Number of shares represented by closing balance (Note b)
Element B
Number of shares awarded
Percentage of salary (Note c)
Value
EPS forfeiture threshold (Note d)
Notes:
Martyn Coffey
Jack Clarke
Ian Burrell
David Sarti
149.0
£596,100
£(298,050)
£298,050
130,723
149.0
£85,689
£(42,845)
£42,844
18,791
149.0
£365,397
£(182,699)
£182,698
80,130
149.0
£353,040
£(353,040)
–
–
Martyn Coffey
Jack Clarke
Ian Burrell
David Sarti
174,298
99.35
£397,400
5.6p
100,221
99.35
£228,505
5.6p
17,644
99.35
£40,229
5.6p
–
–
–
–
(a) 50 per cent of the earned Element A award is released to the participant as annual bonus: the remaining 50 per cent is deferred into the participant's MIP account and converted into shares. In the second and each
subsequent year of the MIP prior to the final year, 50 per cent of the balance in the MIP account is released. David Sarti and Ian Burrell will receive the full amount of their Element A plan account as "good leavers".
(b) Calculated by reference to the mid market average value for the 30 day period ending on 31 December 2014 (228 pence).
(c) No Element B award was made to David Sarti, in view of his retirement on 31 December 2014. The Element B award for Ian Burrell takes account of his expected retirement on 30 June 2015 and is
calculated by reference to the number of days service in the 3 year holding period up to his termination date (estimated number of Element B shares as at 30 June 2015 is 17,644).
(d) If the actual EPS falls below the forfeiture threshold over the three years before vesting, 50% of the balance of the award is forfeited. Once Element B shares have vested, they must normally be held
for a further 2 years. Element B shares lapse on cessation of employment except in “good leaver” circumstances.
PIP awards
Balances in the PIP carried over from 2013 will be released following announcement of the 2014 Results, as the forfeiture threshold
(EPS of 5.6 pence) was not breached.
Plan accounts
Martyn Coffey
Jack Clarke
Ian Burrell
David Sarti
Balance as at 1 January 2014
2014 dividend added
Impact of 2014 share price increase
Value
Shares released to participants (calculated by reference to the year end
share price of 234 pence)
Balance as at 1 January 2015
£79,309
£2,475
£25,986
£107,770
46,055
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
£360,324
£11,244
£118,064
£489,632
209,244
–
£360,324
£11,244
£118,064
£489,632
209,244
–
2005 LTIP
A proportion of Performance Share Awards granted in 2012 under the 2005 LTIP have vested following the announcement of the 2014 annual results. Vesting
of these awards was dependent on performance over the 3 financial years ended 31 December 2012, 2013 and 2014 and on continued employment.
Performance shares
Performance measurement
EPS
Growth of RPI +9%
Growth of RPI +21%
Operating Cash Flow ("OCF")
Growth of RPI +9%
Growth of RPI +21%
* Straight line vesting between points.
Notes:
% of
award vesting*
Actual
% of 2012
awards vesting
0%
50%
0%
50%
EPS changed
from 5.65p to 10.13p
Growth of RPI +71.9%
OCF changed from £87.9m
to £103.0m
Growth of RPI +9.9%
100% of EPS target
7.3% of OCF target
(a) Performance Shares take the form of nil-cost options.
(b)
EPS is measured using International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRSs") based on the audited results of the Company and subject to the discretion of the Committee with regard to one off items. Operating Cash Flow
("OCF") growth is calculated by taking the aggregate OCF for the 3 financial years preceding the year of grant of the award and comparing it with the aggregate OCF for the 3 years following the date of grant.
(c)
In determining the percentage of awards vesting the Committee exercised its discretion as provided in the rules of the LTIP. The original performance condition for OCR had a step in vesting once threshold performance
had been met, with 12.5 per cent of this element of the LTIP award vesting for threshold performance. The Committee decided in line with current best practice to remove this step and start threshold vesting at 0 per cent
for OCR growth of RPI +9 per cent, rather than 12.5 per cent. The impact of this change has been to reduce the level of vesting under this element of the LTIP award for participants at threshold levels of performance.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
55
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information
Annual Remuneration Report continued
2005 LTIP awards made in 2014 (Audited)
Executive Director
Martyn Coffey
Jack Clarke
(Note a)
Ian Burrell
David Sarti
Notes:
Basis of award
100% of salary
100% of salary
100% of salary
100% of salary
Face value
£'000
400
230
245
237
Number of
shares
222,124
Measurement
period
Performance
conditions
3 years
115,676
3 years
136,157
3 years
131,553
3 years
EPS growth
OCF growth
EPS growth
OCF growth
EPS growth
OCF growth
EPS growth
OCF growth
(a) Exceptional award granted on appointment.
(b) The number of Performance Shares is calculated based on the average mid-market closing price over the 3 days immediately preceding the date of grant.
(c) The performance conditions attached to 2014 awards are:
EPS growth (75%):
— 75% or less = 0%
— 100% = 50% vesting
— 125% = 100% vesting
OCF growth (25%)
— 5% = 0%
— 10% = 50%
— 15% = 100%
Straight line vesting between points.
(d) The 2005 LTIP Rules contain provisions relating to the lapse of awards on termination (other than as a good leaver). Amounts may be withheld in the event of financial misstatement in any year
of the measurement period (2014-2016).
2005 LTIP awards: previous awards outstanding as at 31 December 2014
Number of Performance
Shares awarded
Executive Director
2014
2013
Ian Burrell
136,157
212,943
2013 target EPS (50%) and
OCF (50%) growth
2014 target EPS (75%) and
OCF (25%) growth
David Sarti
131,553
212,943
Martyn Coffey
Jack Clarke
Martyn Coffey
222,124
115,676
–
–
–
243,412
RPI + 9%
to 21%
Share
price in
range
200p to
250p
Notes:
(a) Estimate assumes RPI to be 4.3 per cent over first 2 years of vesting period.
(b) Estimate assumes RPI to be 1.6 per cent over first year of vesting period.
(c) All estimates are measured as at 31 December 2014.
Potential
level of
vesting of
2013
awards
(Note a)
EPS
100%
OCF
100%
Actual
2014
awards
EPS
growth
= 80.2%
OCF
growth
= 193.2%
Potential
level of
vesting of
2014
awards
(Note b)
EPS
100%
OCF
100%
Actual
2013
awards
EPS
growth =
83.5%
OCF
growth
= 39.1%
Share
price
176.25p
0%
Share
price
234p
68%
(d)
The outstanding awards held by David Sarti will be pro-rated to his leaving date of 31 December 2014, and the outstanding awards held by Ian Burrell will be pro-rated to his expected leaving date
of 30 June 2015. Details of the actual values likely to vest in respect of 2013 and 2014 awards are included in the notes to the Single Figure Remuneration table on page 51.
(e)
Each of Ian Burrell and David Sarti holds 228,288 2012 LTIP awards and are entitled to exercise their rights in respect of 122,511 shares each following announcement of the 2014 results. The balance
of the 2012 LTIP awards will lapse. Neither Martyn Coffey nor Jack Clarke have 2012 Performance Share awards.
56
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Corporate Governance
Pension benefits (audited)
Executive Directors are eligible for membership of the defined contribution section of the Marshalls plc Pension Scheme (the "Scheme").
Ian Burrell and David Sarti ceased to be members of the Scheme in 2013, having fixed their lifetime allowance, and in 2014 each received
a monthly pension allowance equal to the monthly contribution that would otherwise have been paid by the Company to the Scheme.
Neither Martyn Coffey nor Jack Clarke is a member of the Scheme. Each receives a monthly pension allowance equal to the contribution
that the Company would otherwise have paid to the Scheme. Martyn Coffey received an annual fixed pension allowance of £75,000 in 2014.
Jack Clarke received a pension allowance of 20 per cent of salary.
No Director is entitled to defined benefit pension under the Scheme.
Single total figure of remuneration: Non‑Executive Directors (audited)
Non-Executive Directors do not participate in any of the Company's incentive arrangements. Their fees are reviewed periodically and were last
reviewed in October 2014. The Chairman's fees are set by the Committee and the Chief Executive; other Non-Executive Director fees are set by
the Board as a whole. The Non-Executive Directors also received a fixed allowance for travel and accommodation associated with attendance
at Board meetings, which is shown below as a grossed up taxable amount.
Board fee
£'000
Committee fees
£'000
Allowance
£'000
Total
£'000
2014
133
2013
129
43
40
42
40
42
40
2014
2013
–
6
6
–
–
6
6
–
2014
10
2013
10
2014
143
2013
139
6
6
6
6
6
6
55
52
54
52
48
46
Andrew Allner
Chairman and Chairman
of Nomination Committee
Alan Coppin
Senior Independent Director, Chairman
of Remuneration Committee
Member of Audit and Nomination Committees
Mark Edwards
Chairman of Audit Committee
Member of Remuneration
and Nomination Committees
Tim Pile
Member of Audit, Remuneration
and Nomination Committees
Total
260
249
12
12
28
28
300
289
The fees were increased by 3.5 per cent from 1 January 2014 in line with Executive Directors and other Group employees and Alan Coppin
received an additional fee to recognise his role as the Senior Independent Director.
Payments to past Directors
Graham Holden retired from the Board on 10 October 2013 and his employment ceased on his agreed retirement date of 11 April 2014.
Ian Burrell retired from the Board on 1 October 2014 and his employment is expected to cease on his agreed retirement date of 30 June 2015.
David Sarti retired from the Board on 1 December 2014 and his employment ceased on his agreed retirement date of 31 December 2014.
The total amount paid to Graham Holden in respect of his salary, benefits and pension allowance between 1 January 2014 and his date
of leaving is set out below. No bonus was payable to Graham Holden in respect of service during 2014.
The total amount paid to David Sarti in respect of his salary, benefits and pension allowance between 1 December 2014 (the date of his
retirement as a Director) and 31 December 2014 is set out below.
Director
Graham Holden
David Sarti
Salary
£'000
117
20
Taxable benefits
£'000
Pension allowance
£'000
3
1
35
6
Total
£'000
155
27
Date of
leaving
11 April 2014
31 December 2014
Ian Burrell will continue to receive his current salary and benefits until the date of his retirement expected to be 30 June 2015.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
57
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information
Annual Remuneration Report continued
Payments to past Directors continued
As “good leavers” on retirement, the Committee has made the following determinations in respect of incentive awards:
PIP
Graham Holden received his full PIP balance as at 11 April 2014 in the form of 749,786 shares, which were immediately repurchased at market value
by the Marshalls plc Employee Benefit Trust.
Ian Burrell and David Sarti will each receive their full PIP balance as at 31 December 2014 in the form of shares following announcement of the
2014 results, calculated in accordance with PIP Rules. The current value of their Plan accounts and the number of shares to be transferred to
them are shown on page 55 and reflected in the single remuneration figure table on page 51.
2005 LTIP
Performance Share awards where the vesting period has not yet expired are pro-rated for the period from the date of grant to the actual date
of cessation of employment and are subject to the proportionate satisfaction of the performance conditions on the date of cessation.
Graham Holden received 213,736 shares in respect of his 2012 and 2013 awards, representing his pro-rated entitlement at the date of leaving.
The remaining balance of 479,555 performance shares awarded in 2012 and 2013 lapsed. He did not receive a 2014 award.
Under the 2013 and 2014 Performance Share awards held by Ian Burrell and David Sarti, the number of shares that vest based on their dates
of cessation of employment and the level of satisfaction of the performance conditions at 31 December 2014 is set out below. In the case of
Ian Burrell, these are estimates based on his anticipated retirement date of 30 June 2015.
Director
Ian Burrell
David Sarti
2013 award
shares
177,160
141,962
2014 award
shares
67,831
43,811
2014 MIP
Ian Burrell will receive an award under Element A and Element B of the MIP. David Sarti will receive an award under Element A of the MIP, and
will not be required to defer any part of his Element A award. He will not be entitled to an award under Element B of the MIP. The maximum
award that could vest, based on the performance conditions at 31 December 2014, is as follows:
Director
Ian Burrell
David Sarti
Element A
£'000
Element B
£'000
365
353
40
–
Payments for loss of office
No payments for loss of office have been made or are due to be paid.
Statement of implementation of Remuneration Policy in the following financial year (2015)
Executive Directors:
Salary
The Committee approved a 2.9 per cent salary increase for Executive Directors effective from 1 January 2015, in line with inflation and increases
for UK employees generally. There was no increase for retiring Directors. Jack Clarke's salary on appointment (1 October 2014) was £230,000.
Director
Martyn Coffey
Jack Clarke
Ian Burrell
David Sarti
1 January 2015
£'000
1 January 2014
£'000
Change
%
412
237
245
–
400
230
245
237
2.9
2.9
–
N/A
Benefits and pension
Benefits continue on the same basis as in 2014. For 2015, the Committee has increased Martyn Coffey’s pension allowance to 20 per cent
of salary in line with the Policy.
58
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Corporate Governance Variable pay / incentives
Executive Directors will be granted performance awards under the MIP conditional upon achieving certain performance conditions in 2015. The
Committee has discretion under the Remuneration Policy to change the weightings of performance criteria to align with its priorities, including
measures relating to performance on ESG issues. Our strategic priorities for 2015 are focused on improving profit margins, growing our business
and developing our brand, while also remaining innovative and operating sustainably with the highest standards of health, safety and social
responsibility. The Committee believes that a combination of EPS and net debt are the most appropriate criteria for measuring achievement of our
financial objectives and that the combination of financial and non-financial criteria avoids inadvertently motivating irresponsible behaviour. The
weighting for the operation of 2015 awards under the MIP will be:
EPS
75%
Net debt 25%
Targets are set between a minimum (0 per cent) and maximum (100 per cent) range in each case, with on-target (budget) performance
expected to deliver 70 per cent of maximum.
Additional non-financial performance conditions to reflect our focus on brand, customers and employees will apply:
— customer service (must remain at or above 95 per cent); and
— health and safety incidence (year-on-year improvement of 10 per cent).
There is a reduction of award value earned by 20 per cent if these additional conditions are not met.
The Committee also considered whether to use an externally referenced measurement (for example, TSR) but, as explained in its consultations
with shareholders during 2014, has concerns about the identification of a suitable comparator group, and reservations as to whether this is the
most appropriate way to measure Company performance.
Element A awards have a forfeiture threshold set annually at the time of confirmation of the award. If this is breached, 50 per cent of the
deferred balance in a participant's Element A MIP account is forfeited.
Element B awards have a long term financial underpin based on a minimum EPS threshold that must be maintained over the 3 years from the
date of grant. If this is breached, 50 per cent of the Element B award is forfeited. Element B awards are granted after the end of the financial
period by reference to which they have been earned and the underpin is set at the time of grant.
The measurement period under the MIP by reference to which these targets must be met will be the full financial year ending 31 December 2015.
It is the view of the Committee that the targets for the MIP are commercially sensitive as they are primarily related to budgeted future profit
and debt levels in the Company and therefore their disclosure in advance is not in the interests of the Company or shareholders. The Committee
will, however, provide full retrospective disclosure to enable shareholders to judge the level of award provided against the targets set.
Non‑Executive Directors
The Board approved an increase in the fee by 2.9 per cent from 1 January 2015, in line with Executive Directors and employees. In view of the
change in the frequency and location of Board meetings since the previous policy was determined, the annual travel and expenses allowance
previously paid monthly to Non-Executive Directors ceased with effect from 1 January 2015 and Non-Executive Directors will instead reclaim
business expenses incurred in the performance of their duties retrospectively against duly presented invoices.
Director
Andrew Allner (Chairman)
Alan Coppin (SID)
Mark Edwards
Tim Pile
1 January 2015
£'000
1 January 2014
£'000
Percentage
increase
137.1
50.4
49.4
42.8
133.3
49.0
48.0
41.6
2.9
2.9
2.9
2.9
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
59
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Annual Remuneration Report continued
Shareholdings of Directors (audited)
In order that their interests are aligned with those of shareholders, Executive Directors are expected to build up and maintain a meaningful
shareholding in the Company. There are no minimum holding requirements for Non-Executive Directors, but they would usually be expected
to hold some shares in the Company.
The minimum shareholding requirements for Executive Directors are as follows:
Executive Director
Martyn Coffey
Jack Clarke
Ian Burrell
David Sarti
Directors' shareholdings and share interests
The following table sets out, in respect of each of the Directors:
— the number of shares the Director holds unconditionally;
Percentage
of salary
200%
100%
100%
100%
Timescale to
achieve/achieved
Within 5 years of appointment
Within 5 years of appointment
Yes
Yes
— the number of deferred and conditional shares held under the incentive schemes that will vest following the 2014 results; and
— the number of shares subject to unvested incentive awards.
Shareholding requirement
Beneficially owned
Shares exercisable/
vesting on 2014 results
(Note b)
Deferred shares
(Note c)
Deferred and contingent
share interests
(Note d)
Total interests
in shares (including
contingent interests)
Director
Martyn Coffey
Jack Clarke
Ian Burrell
David Sarti
Non‑Executive
Andrew Allner
Alan Coppin
Mark Edwards
Tim Pile
Number
of shares
required
(Note a)
341,880
98,291
104,783
101,239
–
–
–
–
% of
salary
200
100
100
100
–
–
–
–
Number of
shares held
641
–
298,664
176,719
41,329
10,000
78,000
34,740
Number of
shares
Number of
shares
46,055
–
331,755
517,528
–
–
–
–
87,149
50,111
8,822
–
–
–
–
–
Number of
shares
683,408
184,578
333,944
–
–
–
–
–
Number of
shares
817,253
234,689
973,185
694,247
41,329
10,000
78,000
34,740
(a) The closing price of 234 pence per share on 31 December 2014 has been used to measure the number of shares required.
(b) Following announcement of the 2014 annual results, 100 per cent of the deferred PIP balance as at 31 December 2014, and 53.6 per cent of 2005 LTIP Performance Shares awarded in 2012 are
expected to vest. The deferred PIP balance is settled in shares, and this column includes the total number of PIP shares and 2012 LTIP shares vesting. This column shows David Sarti's conditional
interests having vested on a pro-rata basis as a "good leaver" by reference to his leaving date of 31 December 2014; any remaining balance has lapsed.
(c) This column includes the 50 per cent proportion of share interests awarded in 2014 under Element B of the MIP in the form of nil cost options or conditional shares that may be exercised after the
3-year deferral period (i.e in March 2018) but where vesting is only dependent on continuing employment throughout the 3 year deferral period with no other performance conditions.
(d) This column includes outstanding conditional interests under the 2005 LTIP in the form of Performance Shares awarded in 2013 and 2014, and share interests awarded under the MIP (Element A
deferred shares, and Element B deferred shares) that remain subject to a financial performance conditions as well as to continued employment over the relevant deferral period. 50 per cent of
Element A awards and 100 per cent of Element B awards shown in this column may be forfeited if the financial condition is not satisfied. The conditional and deferred interests held by Ian Burrell
are expected to vest on his leaving date of 30 June 2015 on a pro-rata basis, and his remaining balances under the LTIP will lapse.
(e) Share interests under Element A and Element B of the MIP are calculated by reference to the mid-market average value for the 30 day period ending on 31 December 2014 (228 pence).
(f ) The table above includes the interests of "connected persons" as defined under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000.
60
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Corporate Governance The Committee and its advisers
Role of the Remuneration Committee
The Committee’s responsibilities include:
— setting remuneration policy for Executive Directors;
— determining specific remuneration packages for Executive Directors and for the Chairman;
— operating the Company’s employee share incentive arrangements;
— providing guidance on remuneration for senior employees who report to the CEO; and
— considering the broader remuneration policies for Group employees below Board level.
The Board determines the remuneration of the Non-Executive Directors. No Director plays a part in any decision about his own remuneration.
Alan Coppin, Mark Edwards and Tim Pile are all independent Non-Executive Directors within the definition of the Code, and Andrew Allner satisfied
the independence condition on his appointment as Non-Executive Chairman in 2010. None of them have any personal financial interest (other
than as shareholders) in matters to be decided, nor do they have any conflicts of interest from cross-directorships or any day-to-day involvement
in running the business.
External advisers
The Company appointed external remuneration advisers, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP ("PwC"), in 2010 following a competitive tender process.
PwC attends meetings of the Committee by invitation. The Chief Executive attends as appropriate but may not participate in discussions about
his own remuneration. The Company Secretary acts as secretary to the Committee and attends Committee meetings.
PwC’s fees are agreed by the Remuneration Committee according to the work performed. The terms of its engagement are available on
request from the Company Secretary. PwC also provided advice to the Company during the year in relation to corporate tax matters. The
Committee is satisfied that the advice from PwC is independent based on the separation of the team advising the Committee from any other
work undertaken by PwC and the fact that PwC is a signatory to the Remuneration Consultants' Group's Code of Conduct. PwC’s work relating
to Executive remuneration during 2014 is summarised below.
Nature of work
— supporting shareholder consultation in relation to the new MIP;
— assistance in the preparation of the Remuneration Committee Report;
— benchmarking of total remuneration in respect of the Company and its comparator group;
— advice on the remuneration package for the Finance Director role;
— attendance at Remuneration Committee meetings to provide advice when required; and
— general advice on remuneration trends, regulations and best practice.
The amount paid to PwC in respect of remuneration advice received during 2014 was £65,000.
Committee Terms of Reference
www.marshalls.co.uk
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
61
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Audit Committee Report
Chairman's introduction
Dear Shareholder
I am pleased to report to you on the Audit Committee’s activities
and objectives during 2014. This report, which is part of the
Directors' Report, explains how the Audit Committee has
discharged its responsibilities during 2014, and reflects the
recent changes to audit reporting under the Code. I hope you
find it useful and informative.
The role of the Audit Committee is to oversee financial reporting
and to review the ongoing effectiveness of the Group's internal
controls. The Committee provides assurance on the Group's risk
management processes and assesses information received by
external audit and the internal audit function.
One key area of focus during the year has been the
tender of the Group’s statutory audit work. Mindful of the
recommendations of the Code in relation to rotation and
audit tender, and of the Competition Commission Order
relating to the statutory audit market, the Committee
commenced a tender process in August 2014, concluding
with the recommendation that Deloitte LLP be appointed as
statutory auditor in place of KPMG LLP. This appointment will
take effect following completion of the 2014 audit by KPMG LLP,
and a resolution to approve the appointment of Deloitte LLP as
statutory auditor will be submitted to a shareholder vote at our
AGM in May 2015.
The Committee has reviewed the Group's Financial Statements
contained in this Annual Report and following its review is
satisfied that the Committee has provided assurance to this effect
to the Board that they present a fair, balanced and understandable
assessment of the Group's position and prospects.
Mark Edwards
Audit Committee Chairman
62
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Audit Committee members
— Mark Edwards
— Alan Coppin
— Tim Pile
Role and responsibilities
The key responsibilities of the Committee are:
— to keep under review the Group’s financial and other systems
and controls and financial reporting procedures;
— to plan and scope the annual audit and half-yearly audit review,
receive audit reports and review financial statements, taking
account of accounting policies adopted and applicable
reporting requirements;
— to review the Annual Report and Financial Statements and
advise the Board on whether they give a fair, balanced and
understandable explanation of the Company’s business and
performance over the relevant period;
— to conduct a detailed review of internal controls and the internal
audit process and report findings at least twice yearly to the Board;
— to review and update the Company’s Risk Register;
— to review external auditor independence and audit and non-audit
fees and make recommendations regarding audit tender and the
appointment and remuneration of the auditor; and
— to review the Anti-Bribery Code and procedures, the Serious
Concerns Policy and other policies relevant to financial security,
compliance and business ethics.
The Audit Committee is the body appointed by the Board with
responsibility for carrying out the functions required by the Listing
Rules DTR 7.1.3R.
The Chairman of the Committee is a Chartered Accountant and the
Board is satisfied he has recent and relevant financial experience as
required by the Code. Other members also have relevant financial
experience. Their attendance at meetings is shown on page 38.
During the year, the Audit Committee held 4 formal meetings
and there were also meetings between the Audit Chairman,
the Finance Director and the external auditor.
The Committee’s performance was evaluated during 2014 as part of
the Board evaluation process described in the Corporate Governance
section of this Annual Report (pages 34 to 40).
Committee Terms of Reference
www.marshalls.co.uk
Corporate Governance Highlights of 2014
When reviewing the annual and half-yearly results, the Committee
exercises its judgement in relation to matters drawn to its attention
by the Finance Director from the internal audit function, the Risk
Committee and the Group’s external auditor. The Committee meets
the auditor independently of management, giving the opportunity to
ensure that it has full visibility of matters that have been the subject
of particular discussions. The Committee also reports to the Board in
relation to the going concern statement and whether the accounts
are fair, balanced and understandable.
The Group has chosen to adopt FRS 101 early and has applied this
standard to the 2014 Accounts.
The areas for particular focus in the course of the 2014 audit are
summarised below.
Inventory provisioning
The Committee critically reviewed the carrying value of the Group's
finished goods inventory, particularly with regard to management's
assessment of the appropriate level of provisioning against
inventory obsolescence.
The gross levels of finished goods inventory held and the provisions
recorded against obsolescence were presented to the Committee.
This analysis was reviewed in the context of current trading and
forecast for the next financial year. In addition, the external auditor
presented its findings with regard to the key audit testing over inventory
valuation. The Committee concurred with management's assessment
of the carrying value of Group inventories, and noted that there was
considerable management focus on reduction in finished goods
inventory during 2014.
IFRS 8 "Segment Reporting"
The 2014 Accounts take account of a change in management reporting
and the Directors have concluded that the detailed requirements of
IFRS 8 now support the reporting of the Group's Landscape Products
business as a reportable segment. This includes the UK operations of
the Marshalls Landscape Products hard landscaping business servicing
both the UK Domestic and the UK Public Sector and Commercial
end markets.
Impairment testing
The Committee considered and critically reviewed the assumptions
used in management's impairment calculations. On the basis of this
review, the Committee agreed with management that no impairment
to goodwill and other intangible assets was necessary. In relation to
Marshalls NV, which forms part of International, there has been focus
on impairment testing associated with the cessation of standard
block paving manufacture at the Arendonk site. The Committee is
satisfied that the asset values in Marshalls NV in the accounts for 2014
are supported and that the closure of the Arendonk operations does
not cause an impairment concern.
Other matters
Other matters considered by the Audit Committee included taxation,
pensions and share-based expenses.
External audit, auditor independence and objectivity
The Audit Committee has primary responsibility for making a
recommendation to the Board on the appointment, re-appointment
and removal of the external auditor. It keeps under review the scope
and results of the audit, its cost-effectiveness and the independence
and objectivity of the auditor. The Group’s current auditor, KPMG LLP,
has processes in place designed to maintain independence, including
regular rotation of the audit partner. The current KPMG audit
engagement partner, Chris Hearld, was due to rotate after the 2014
accounts. Recognising that KPMG LLP (and their predecessors) have
provided audit services to the Group since 1986, this provided a
sensible opportunity for the external audit contract to be tendered,
as indicated in our 2013 Annual Report, to meet regulatory guidelines
and best practice in relation to the maximum periods for external
auditor appointments and the protection of auditor independence.
The Company has no contractual commitment obliging it to select
any particular audit firm.
The Committee led the tender process, setting clear and robust
objective and qualitative criteria incorporated into a tender brief for
the potential candidate firms, which was issued in August 2014. This
was followed by presentations from a shortlist of preferred candidates
and meetings with the Chair of the Committee, the Chairman, Executive
Directors and senior members of our Group finance function. The
Committee made a recommendation to the Board in December, and
the decision was taken to appoint Deloitte LLP as statutory auditor in
place of KPMG LLP, subject to formal approval at the 2015 AGM. KPMG
LLP will complete the audit of the Group and its subsidiaries for 2014,
and the Committee considers that KPMG LLP is independent and
objective for this purpose. No matters have been drawn to the attention
of the Committee by KPMG LLP in relation to the 2014 audit or the
cessation of their appointment as auditor.
The Committee has adopted policies to safeguard the independence
of its external auditor. Any work awarded to the external auditor with
a value of more than £5,000 in aggregate in any financial year, other
than audit and tax compliance, requires the specific approval of the
Committee. Where the Committee perceives that the independence
of the auditor could be compromised, the work will not be awarded
to it. Details of amounts paid to the external auditor for audit and
non-audit services in 2014 are analysed in Note 3 on page 89, with
the amount paid for non-audit work representing approximately
£4,000, or 2.4 per cent of total fees paid to the external auditor in
2014. This was for services associated with corporate tax compliance
procedures. The aggregate amount paid to other firms of accountants
for non-audit services in the same period was £195,000 (2013: £267,000).
Risk management
The Board is responsible for reviewing the effectiveness of the system
of risk management and control, and for ensuring that it meets the
necessary standards. The Group’s risk management and internal
control systems are subject to a full formal review by the Audit
Committee twice a year. They are also subject to a regular rolling
programme of review, the results of which are periodically reported
to the Board. The Group’s Risk Committee, comprising the Executive
Directors and members of senior management with executive
accountability for particular risk areas, meets twice yearly to identify,
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
63
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information The Committee is pleased to report that no significant failings or
weaknesses were identified during the year, and there were no losses
identified as a result of fraud.
The Committee has reviewed the current process and has concluded
that it remains an effective means of managing the internal audit
function. The Committee will be considering how this process can
be developed further during 2015.
Whistleblowing and bribery
The Audit Committee monitors any reported incidents under
the Serious Concerns Policy (our whistle-blowing policy) which
is available to all employees. This policy is displayed on operating
site notice boards and on the Company’s intranet, and sets out the
procedure for employees to raise legitimate concerns about any
wrong-doing without fear of criticism, discrimination or reprisal.
The Serious Concerns Policy was reviewed during the year and
the Committee was satisfied that arrangements are in place for
the proportionate and independent investigation of such matters
and for appropriate follow-up action. There were no matters raised
under the Serious Concerns Policy in 2014.
The Audit Committee also takes responsibility for reviewing the policies
and procedures adopted by the Company to prevent bribery. The
Company is committed to a zero-tolerance position with regard to
bribery, made explicit through its Anti-Bribery Code and supporting
guidance for its employees, agents and contractors on hospitality
and gifts. The policy and procedures are published on the Company
website and displayed on operating site notice boards. Employees
are offered online training to reinforce the Anti-Bribery Code and
procedures and, to date, 341 employees in decision-making roles with
potential exposure to bribery risk have completed the training, which
represents 100 per cent of target. There is a maintained register of
employee interests, and a gifts and hospitality record. The internal audit
review programme included a review of the adequacy of the Company’s
procedures in relation to the prevention of bribery, and recommendations
from the internal audit process have been implemented in 2014, including
the establishment of the Fraud Register.
The Report of the Audit Committee has been approved by the Board
and signed on its behalf by:
Mark Edwards
Chairman of the Audit Committee
6 March 2015
Audit Committee Report continued
Risk management continued
evaluate and consider steps to manage any material risks which
might threaten the Group’s business objectives. Between formal
meetings of the Risk Committee, there are regular risk reviews by the
relevant senior managers which are reported to the Risk Committee.
The Group maintains a written Risk Register that identifies the Group’s
key risk areas, the probability of these risks occurring and the impact
they would have, giving each risk a relative weighting reflecting its
potential impact on the Group. Against each such risk, the controls
that exist to manage and, where possible, minimise or eliminate those
risks are also listed. The Risk Register helps to identify areas for action,
and uses programmes including independent audit assessments that
are designed to test the effectiveness of the Group’s risk control
systems. Information in relation to the management of risks and any
changes to key risks or weighting is regularly reported to the Board,
and the Risk Register is updated to reflect changes in circumstances
or priorities. To the extent that any failings or weaknesses are identified
during the review process, appropriate measures are taken to
remedy these.
In addition to the major risk review process, the Group has an
established internal control framework, the key features of which
include clearly defined reporting lines and authorisation procedures
and a comprehensive budget and monthly reporting system. The
internal control framework governs the internal financial reporting
process of the business, with checks and balances built into the
system that are designed to reduce the likelihood of material error
or fraud.
The Audit Committee has carried out an assessment of the effectiveness
of the Group’s risk management and internal control system, covering
all material controls including its financial, operational and compliance
controls and risk management systems for the year to 31 December 2014.
Internal controls and audit
The Committee monitors and reviews the effectiveness of internal
controls on an ongoing basis. The process of reviewing and reporting
on the internal control system is carried out by external accountants
instructed by the Finance Director who are independent from the
Company’s external auditor and have no other connection with the
Group. Their work includes periodic site visits and regular internal
audit assignments of a financial and systems nature, including checks
against previously completed self-assessment questionnaires. The
results are reported to the Audit Committee.
The Company operates a self certification internal control process to
support the internal audit process throughout the year. The internal
audit programme includes both regular audit checks and assignments
to look at areas of critical importance. These assignments form part
of a much wider programme of independently audited aspects of the
Group’s operations. Any areas of weakness that are identified through
this process prompt a detailed action plan and a follow up audit
check to establish that actions have been completed. Instances of
fraud or attempted fraud (if any) and preventative action plans are
also reported to the Committee and recorded in a Fraud Register.
64
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Corporate Governance Directors' Report – Other Regulatory Information
The information required by the Listing Rules (DTR 4.1.8R) is contained
in the Strategic Report and the Directors’ Report. Marshalls plc is
registered with company number 5100353.
The Directors of the Company are listed on pages 32 and 33.
Political donations: The Group made no donations during the year
to any political party or political organisation or to any independent
election candidate, whether in the European Union or elsewhere
(2013: nil).
Risk management: The Group’s risk management objectives,
its approach to managing risk generally and its use of financial
instruments are described in the Strategic Report on pages 18 to 20.
Further details of the Group's risk management in relation to financial
risks and its use of financial instruments to mitigate such risks are set
out in note 18 on pages 94 and 95.
Greenhouse gas emissions: The Group’s CO2 (greenhouse gas)
emissions in 2014 are disclosed in the Strategic Report on
pages 22 and 23.
Employees: The Company’s policies in relation to disabled
employees and employee involvement and communication are
explained in the Strategic Report on pages 21 and 22.
Corporate governance: Details of how the Group complies with
the UK Corporate Governance Code are set out on pages 34 to 40.
Post‑balance sheet events of importance since 31 December
2014: There have been no important events affecting the Group
since the end of the financial year. Details of developments since
the financial year end 31 December 2014 are included in the
Strategic Report on pages 25 to 30.
Research and development: Activity and likely future
developments for the business are described in the Strategic Report
on pages 14 and 15.
Dividends
The Board is recommending a final dividend of 4.00 pence (2013: 3.50
pence) per share which, together with the interim dividend of 2.00 pence
(2013: 1.75 pence) per share, makes a combined dividend of 6.00 pence
(2013: 5.25 pence) per share. Payment of the final dividend, if approved
at the Annual General Meeting, will be made on 3 July 2015 to
shareholders registered at the close of business on 5 June 2015.
The ex-dividend date will be 4 June 2015.
The dividend paid in the year to 31 December 2014 and disclosed in
the Consolidated Income Statement is 5.50 pence (2013: 5.25 pence)
per share, being the previous year's final dividend of 3.50 pence
(2013: 3.50 pence) per share and the interim dividend of 2.00 pence
(2013: 1.75 pence) per share in respect of the year ended
31 December 2014 and these were paid on 4 July 2014 and
5 December 2014 respectively.
Share capital and authority to purchase shares
The Company’s share capital at 1 January 2015 was 199,378,755
Ordinary Shares of 25 pence. There has been no change between
31 December 2014 and 6 March 2015. Details of the share capital
are set out in Note 21 on page 106.
On 26 March 2014, 2,425,000 Ordinary Shares held as Treasury Shares
were transferred in connection with the vesting of awards under the
Company's employee share schemes, with 985,905 being transferred
to participants and the balance of 1,439,095 being transferred to the
Marshalls plc Employee Benefit Trust (the “EBT”) for the purposes of
satisfying future awards that may vest under such schemes. The
purchase of shares by the EBT was funded by a loan facility from the
Company made under the provisions of the Companies Act 1986
relating to financial assistance. The Ordinary Shares of the Company
carry equal rights to dividends, voting and return of capital on the
winding up of the Company, as set out in the Company’s Articles of
Association. There are no restrictions on the transfer of securities in
the Company and there are no restrictions on any voting rights or
deadlines, other than those prescribed by law, nor is the Company
aware of any arrangement between holders of its shares which may
result in restrictions on the transfer of securities or voting rights, nor
any arrangement whereby a shareholder has waived or agreed to
waive dividends (other than the EBT).
The EBT may purchase shares in the Company from time to
time to satisfy awards granted to Directors and Senior Executives
subject to the achievement of performance targets under the LTIP.
At 31 December 2014 the EBT held 3,181,327 ordinary shares in the
Company (2013: 1,091,269 shares) in respect of future incentive
awards under the Company's employee share schemes. Details of
outstanding awards are set out in Note 19 on pages 99 to 104. The
EBT has waived its right to receive dividends on shares that it holds
beneficially in respect of future awards. The Trustee of the EBT
exercises any voting rights on such shares in accordance with the
Directors’ recommendations.
UK-based employees of the Group with more than 6 months'
service may participate in the Marshalls plc Share Purchase Plan.
Employees purchase Ordinary Shares in the Company with pre-tax
salary. The shares are purchased in the market and then held in trust
by Yorkshire Building Society. Employees receive dividends on these
shares and may give voting instructions to the Trustee.
At the Annual General Meeting in May 2014 shareholders gave
authority to the Directors to purchase up to 29,523,367 shares
representing approximately 14.99 per cent of the Company’s
issued share capital in the Company in the market during the
period expiring at the next Annual General Meeting at a price
to be determined within certain limits. No Ordinary Shares
in the Company were purchased during the year or between
31 December 2014 and 6 March 2015 under this authority, which
will expire at the Annual General Meeting in May 2015. The Directors
will seek to renew the authority at that meeting.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
65
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Directors' Report – Other Regulatory Information continued
Contracts of significance and related parties
There were no contracts of significance between any member
of the Group and (a) any undertaking in which a Director has a
material interest, or (b) a controlling shareholder (other than
between members of the Group). There have been no related
party transactions between any member of the Group and a
related party since the publication of the last Annual Report.
Articles of Association
The Company’s Articles of Association give powers to the Board to
appoint Directors. Newly appointed Directors are required to retire
and submit themselves for re-election by shareholders at the first
Annual General Meeting following their appointment.
The Board of Directors may exercise all the powers of the Company
subject to the provisions of relevant laws and the Company’s
Memorandum and Articles of Association. These include specific
provisions and restrictions regarding the Company’s power to
borrow money. Powers relating to the issuing and buying back of
shares are included in the Articles of Association and such authorities
are renewed by shareholders each year at the Annual General Meeting.
The Articles of Association may be amended by Special Resolution
of the shareholders.
Directors’ indemnities are referenced on page 37 of the Corporate
Governance section.
Directors’ interests
Details of Directors’ remuneration, interests in the share capital
(or derivatives or other financial instruments relating to those shares)
of the Company and of their share-based payment awards are
contained in the Remuneration Report on pages 46 to 61. No
change in the interests of the Directors has been notified between
31 December 2014 and the date of this Report.
Substantial shareholdings
As at 6 March 2015, the Company had been notified, in accordance with DTR Rule 5, of the following disclosable interests of 3 per cent or more
in its voting rights:
Majedie Asset Management
Standard Life Investments
JO Hambro Capital Management
Unicorn Asset Management
Royal London Asset Management
M&G Investment Management
Henderson Global Investors
BlackRock
As at
6 March
2015
%
As at
31 December
2014
%
9.62
5.75
5.00
4.73
4.27
3.87
3.63
3.54
9.30
5.32
4.16
4.73
4.13
3.88
3.65
3.59
The Directors' Report, comprising the Strategic Report, the Corporate Governance Report and the Reports of the Audit, Remuneration and
Nomination Committees, have been approved by the Board and signed on its behalf by:
Cathy Baxandall
Group Company Secretary
6 March 2015
66
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Corporate Governance Independent Auditor's Report
to the members of Marshalls plc only
Opinions and conclusions arising from our audit
1 Our opinion on the Financial Statements is
unmodified
We have audited the Financial Statements of Marshalls plc for the year
ended 31 December 2014 set out on pages 70 to 118. In our opinion:
— the Financial Statements give a true and fair view of the
state of the Group’s and of the Parent Company’s affairs as
at 31 December 2014 and of the Group’s profit for the year
then ended;
— the Group Financial Statements have been properly prepared
in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards
as adopted by the European Union;
— the Parent Company Financial Statements have been properly
prepared in accordance with UK Accounting Standards,
including FRS 101 "Reduced Disclosure Framework"; and
— the Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance
with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006; and,
as regards the Group Financial Statements, Article 4 of the
IAS Regulation.
2 Our assessment of risks of material misstatement
In arriving at our audit opinion above on the Financial Statements the
risks of material misstatement that had the greatest effect on our
audit were as follows:
Recoverable value of finished goods inventory (balance sheet
value £54.1 million)
Refer to page 63 (Report of the Audit Committee), page 80
(accounting policy) and pages 92 and 108 (financial disclosure).
The risk
As described in Note 1(j), the Directors record inventory at the lower
of cost and net realisable value. The Group holds a large amount of
inventories in order to meet customer demand. The non-perishable
nature of the inventories, the business model of production across
multiple locations and the wide range of product lines contribute
to a high inventory holding. Despite the significant improvement
in trading during 2014 there is still a risk that inventory lines which
have been held for a significant period of time could have a reduced
recoverable value as management may have to significantly discount
the products in order to sell them. Therefore this is considered a key
audit risk.
Our response
Our audit procedures included, among others, the use of data analysis
techniques to compare on a product-by-product basis, inventory on
hand at the year end and respective sales history in order to build
independently a profile of inventory ageing and assess the length of
time expected to take the inventory to sell. We then further analysed
any inventory lines which are slow moving and considered their
realisable value in the context of recent trading performance and
the provisions held.
We also assessed the overall level of inventory provisions made by
the Directors across all products as a whole based on our knowledge
of recent margins achieved by the Group across its product range.
In order to assess the accuracy of management’s previous estimates
we analysed the throughput of inventory previously identified as
slow moving and reviewed the movement in the level of inventory
provisions from prior periods and the level of inventory write-offs
arising on sale. We also considered whether disclosures about the
carrying value of inventory and write-downs made during the year
met the requirements of the accounting standards.
Carrying value of goodwill
We continue to perform audit procedures over the risk of the carrying
value of goodwill. However, following significant improvement in the
Group's actual and forecast funding performance and the associated
increase in market capitalisation, we have not assessed this as one of
the risks that had the greatest effect on our audit and, therefore, it is
not separately identified in our report this year.
3 Our application of materiality and an overview of the
scope of our audit
The materiality for the Group Financial Statements as a whole was
set at £1.3 million. This has been determined with reference to a
benchmark of Group profit before tax of £22.4 million (of which it
represents 5.8 per cent).
We report to the Audit Committee any corrected and uncorrected
misstatements exceeding £65,000 for income statement items in
addition to other identified misstatements that warranted reporting
on qualitative grounds.
The Group audit team performed the audit of all the components
scoped in for Group reporting purposes as if they comprised a single
aggregated set of financial information. The audit was performed
using the materiality level set out above and covered 95 per cent
of total Group revenue, 91 per cent of the total profits and losses
that made up Group profit before tax and 94 per cent of total
Group assets.
For the one remaining component, we performed analysis at Group
level to re-examine our assessment that there were no significant risks
of material misstatements within this component.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
67
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Independent Auditor's Report continued
to the members of Marshalls plc only
— certain disclosures of directors’ remuneration specified by law
are not made; or
— we have not received all the information and explanations
we require for our audit; or
— a Corporate Governance Statement has not been prepared
by the Company.
Under the Listing Rules we are required to review:
— the Directors’ Statement, set out on page 42, in relation to
going concern; and
— the Corporate Governance Statement on pages 32 to 40 relating
to the Company’s compliance with the 10 provisions of the 2012
UK Corporate Governance Code specified for our review.
We have nothing to report in respect of the above responsibilities.
Scope and responsibilities
As explained more fully in the Directors’ Responsibilities Statement
set out on pages 41 and 42, the Directors are responsible for the
preparation of the Financial Statements and for being satisfied that
they give a true and fair view. A description of the scope of an audit of
Financial Statements is provided on the Financial Reporting Council’s
website at www.frc.org.uk/auditscopeukprivate. This report is made
solely to the Company’s members as a body and is subject to
important explanations and disclaimers regarding our responsibilities,
published on our website at www.kpmg.com/uk/auditscopeukco2014a,
which are incorporated into this report as if set out in full and should
be read to provide an understanding of the purpose of this report,
the work we have undertaken and the basis of our opinions.
Chris Hearld (Senior Statutory Auditor)
for and on behalf of KPMG LLP, Statutory Auditor
Chartered Accountants
1 The Embankment, Neville Street, Leeds, LS1 4DW
6 March 2015
Opinions and conclusions arising from our audit continued
4 Our opinion on other matters prescribed by the
Companies Act 2006 is unmodified
In our opinion:
— the part of the Directors’ Remuneration Report to be audited has
been properly prepared in accordance with the Companies Act
2006; and
— the information given in the Strategic Report and Directors’
Report for the financial year for which the Financial Statements
are prepared is consistent with the Financial Statements; and
— the information given in the Corporate Governance Statement
set out on pages 34 to 40 with respect to internal control and
risk management systems in relation to financial reporting
processes and about share capital structures is consistent
with the Financial Statements.
5 We have nothing to report in respect of the matters
on which we are required to report by exception
Under ISAs (UK and Ireland) we are required to report to you if, based
on the knowledge we acquired during our audit, we have identified
other information in the Annual Report that contains a material
inconsistency with either that knowledge or the Financial Statements,
a material misstatement of fact, or that is otherwise misleading.
In particular, we are required to report to you if:
— we have identified material inconsistencies between the
knowledge we acquired during our audit and the Directors’
Statement that they consider that the Annual Report and
Financial Statements taken as a whole is fair, balanced and
understandable and provides the information necessary for
shareholders to assess the Group’s performance, business
model and strategy; or
— the Report of the Audit Committee does not appropriately
address matters communicated by us to the Audit Committee.
Under the Companies Act 2006 we are required to report to you if,
in our opinion:
— adequate accounting records have not been kept by the Parent
Company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been
received from branches not visited by us; or
— the Parent Company Financial Statements and the part of
the Directors’ Remuneration Report to be audited are not in
agreement with the accounting records and returns; or
68
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Corporate Governance Financial Statements
Shareholder Information
70 Consolidated Income Statement
121 Shareholder Information
71
Consolidated Statement
of Comprehensive Income
72 Consolidated Balance Sheet
73
74
76
109
110
Consolidated Cash Flow Statement
Consolidated Statement of Changes
in Equity
Notes to the Consolidated Financial
Statements
Parent Company Statement
of Comprehensive Income
Parent Company Statement of Changes
in Equity
112
Company Balance Sheet
113
Notes to the Company Financial
Statements
119
Financial History – Consolidated Group
Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Annual report and accounts 2014
69
69
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Consolidated Income Statement
for the year ended 31 December 2014
Revenue
Net operating costs
Operating profit
Financial expenses
Financial income
Profit before tax
Income tax expense
Profit for the financial period before post tax profit of discontinued operations
Post tax profit of discontinued operations
Profit for the financial period
Profit for the period
Attributable to:
Equity shareholders of the parent
Non-controlling interests
Earnings per share (total operations):
Basic
Diluted
Earnings per share (continuing operations):
Basic
Diluted
Dividend:
Pence per share
Dividends declared
Notes
2
3
2
5
5
2
6
7
8
8
8
8
9
9
2014
£'000
358,516
(333,211)
25,305
(2,889)
5
22,421
(4,198)
18,223
–
18,223
19,857
(1,634)
18,223
10.13p
9.89p
10.13p
9.89p
5.50p
10,791
2013
£'000
307,390
(291,300)
16,090
(3,649)
585
13,026
(67)
12,959
503
13,462
14,096
(634)
13,462
7.20p
7.07p
6.94p
6.82p
5.25p
10,292
70
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
for the year ended 31 December 2014
Profit for the financial period
Other comprehensive income / (expense)
Items that will not be reclassified to the Income Statement:
Remeasurements of the net defined benefit liability
Deferred tax arising
Deferred tax on share-based payments
Corporation tax on share-based payments
2014
£’000
18,223
3,244
(649)
460
332
2013
£’000
13,462
(18,735)
3,747
176
–
Total items that will not be reclassified to the Income Statement
3,387
(14,812)
Items that are or may in the future be reclassified to the Income Statement:
Effective portion of changes in fair value of cash flow hedges
Fair value of cash flow hedges transferred to the Income Statement
Deferred tax arising
Impact of the change in rate of deferred taxation
Foreign currency translation differences – foreign operations
Foreign currency translation differences – non-controlling interests
Total items that are or may be reclassified subsequently to the Income Statement
Other comprehensive income / (expense) for period, net of income tax
Total comprehensive income / (expense) for the period
Attributable to:
Equity shareholders of the parent
Non-controlling interests
(3,984)
1,076
582
–
(75)
(186)
(2,587)
800
19,023
20,843
(1,820)
19,023
2,787
(1,447)
(286)
275
(51)
45
1,323
(13,489)
(27)
562
(589)
(27)
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
71
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Consolidated Balance Sheet
at 31 December 2014
Assets
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Investment in associates
Employee benefits
Deferred taxation assets
Current assets
Inventories
Trade and other receivables
Cash and cash equivalents
Total assets
Liabilities
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables
Corporation tax
Interest bearing loans and borrowings
Non-current liabilities
Interest bearing loans and borrowings
Employee benefits
Deferred taxation liabilities
Total liabilities
Net assets
Equity
Capital and reserves attributable to equity shareholders of the parent
Called-up share capital
Share premium account
Own shares
Capital redemption reserve
Consolidation reserve
Hedging reserve
Retained earnings
Equity attributable to equity shareholders of the parent
Non-controlling interests
Total equity
Approved at a Directors’ meeting on 6 March 2015.
On behalf of the Board:
M. Coffey
Chief Executive
The Notes on pages 76 to 108 form part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
J.J. Clarke
Finance Director
72
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Notes
2014
£’000
2013
£’000
10
11
12
19
20
13
14
15
16
17
17
19
20
21
22
149,745
40,581
782
3,449
1,394
154,721
41,071
664
–
1,626
195,951
198,082
67,323
32,254
20,320
119,897
315,848
63,912
4,276
85
68,273
50,715
–
14,966
65,681
133,954
181,894
49,845
22,695
(6,689)
75,394
(213,067)
(2,488)
254,729
180,419
1,475
181,894
70,807
32,373
17,652
120,832
318,914
65,882
4,802
3,453
74,137
49,768
4,347
15,230
69,345
143,482
175,432
49,845
22,695
(9,512)
75,394
(213,067)
(162)
246,944
172,137
3,295
175,432
Financial Statements
Consolidated Cash Flow Statement
for the year ended 31 December 2014
Cash flows from operating activities
Profit for the financial period
Income tax expense on continuing operations
Profit on disposal and closure of discontinued operations
Income tax expense on discontinued operations
Profit before tax on total operations
Adjustments for:
Depreciation
Amortisation
Share of results of associates
Gain on sale of property, plant and equipment
Equity settled share-based expenses
Financial income and expenses (net)
Operating cash flow before changes in working capital and pension scheme contributions
Increase in trade and other receivables
Decrease in inventories
(Decrease) / increase in trade and other payables
Operational restructuring costs paid
Pension scheme contributions
Cash generated from the operations
Financial expenses paid
Income tax paid
Net cash flow from operating activities
Cash flows from investing activities
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment
Financial income received
Net proceeds from disposal of discontinued operations
Acquisition of property, plant and equipment
Acquisition of intangible assets
Net cash flow from investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities
Payments to acquire own shares
Net increase / (decrease) in other debt and finance leases
Decrease in borrowings
Equity dividends paid
Net cash flow from financing activities
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the period
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period
2014
£’000
2013
£'000
18,223
4,198
–
–
13,462
67
(272)
110
22,421
13,367
11,982
1,231
(118)
(360)
2,496
2,884
40,536
(159)
3,102
(2,656)
(235)
(4,600)
35,988
(2,840)
(4,031)
29,117
3,077
5
–
(11,269)
(741)
(8,928)
(4,266)
269
(2,690)
(10,791)
(17,478)
2,711
17,652
(43)
20,320
13,455
938
(14)
(131)
2,353
3,064
33,032
(2,933)
2,840
5,146
(870)
(5,600)
31,615
(3,649)
(842)
27,124
175
9
16,999
(5,462)
(596)
11,125
–
(95)
(21,328)
(10,292)
(31,715)
6,534
11,101
17
17,652
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
73
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
for the year ended 31 December 2014
Attributable to equity holders of the Company
Share
capital
£'000
Share
premium
account
£'000
Capital
Own
shares
£'000
redemption Consolidation
reserve
£'000
reserve
£'000
Hedging
reserve
£'000
Retained
earnings
£'000
Non-
controlling
interests
£'000
Total
£'000
Total
equity
£’000
49,845 22,695
(9,512)
75,394
(213,067)
(162) 246,944 172,137
3,295 175,432
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
(4,266)
7,089
2,823
2,823
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
– 19,857 19,857
(1,634) 18,223
–
(75)
(75)
(186)
(261)
(3,984)
–
(3,984)
–
(3,984)
1,076
582
–
–
1,076
582
–
–
–
–
3,244
3,244
(649)
(649)
460
460
332
332
–
–
–
–
–
–
1,076
582
3,244
(649)
460
332
(2,326)
3,312
986
(186)
800
(2,326) 23,169 20,843
(1,820) 19,023
–
2,496
2,496
–
2,496
– (10,791) (10,791)
– (10,791)
–
–
–
(4,266)
(7,089)
–
–
–
(4,266)
–
– (15,384) (12,561)
– (12,561)
(2,326)
7,785
8,282
(1,820)
6,462
Current year
At 1 January 2014
Total comprehensive
income / (expense) for the period
Profit for the financial period
attributable to equity shareholders
of the parent
Other comprehensive
income / (expense)
Foreign currency translation
differences
Effective portion of changes
in fair value of cash flow hedges
Net change in fair value of cash flow
hedges transferred to the Income
Statement
Deferred tax arising
Defined benefit plan actuarial gains
Deferred tax arising
Deferred tax on share-based
payments
Corporation tax on share-based
payments
Total other comprehensive
income / (expense)
Total comprehensive income /
(expense) for the period
Transactions with owners,
recorded directly in equity
Contributions by and
distributions to owners
Share-based expenses
Dividends to equity shareholders
Purchase of own shares
Disposal of own shares
Total contributions by and
distributions to owners
Total transactions with owners of
the Company
At 31 December 2014
49,845 22,695
(6,689)
75,394
(213,067)
(2,488) 254,729 180,419
1,475 181,894
74
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity continued
for the year ended 31 December 2014
Attributable to equity holders of the Company
Share
capital
£'000
Share
premium
account
£'000
Capital
Own
shares
£'000
redemption Consolidation
reserve
£'000
reserve
£'000
Hedging
reserve
£'000
Retained
earnings
£'000
Non-
controlling
interests
£'000
Total
£'000
Total
equity
£’000
49,845
22,695
(9,571)
75,394
(213,067)
(1,216) 255,610
179,690
3,884
183,574
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
59
59
59
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
14,096
14,096
(634)
13,462
–
(51)
(51)
45
(6)
2,787
(1,447)
(286)
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
2,787
(1,447)
(286)
(18,735)
(18,735)
3,747
3,747
176
176
275
275
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
2,787
(1,447)
(286)
(18,735)
3,747
176
275
1,054
(14,588)
(13,534)
45
(13,489)
1,054
(492)
562
(589)
(27)
–
–
–
–
2,177
2,177
(10,292)
(10,292)
(59)
–
(8,174)
(8,115)
–
–
–
–
2,177
(10,292)
–
(8,115)
1,054
(8,666)
(7,553)
(589)
(8,142)
Prior year
At 1 January 2013
Total comprehensive
income / (expense) for the period
Profit for the financial period
attributable to equity shareholders
of the parent
Other comprehensive
income / (expense)
Foreign currency translation
differences
Effective portion of changes
in fair value of cash flow hedges
Net change in fair value of cash flow
hedges transferred to the Income
Statement
Deferred tax arising
Defined benefit plan actuarial losses
Deferred tax arising
Deferred tax on share-based
payments
Impact of the change in rate
of deferred taxation
Total other comprehensive
income / (expense)
Total comprehensive
income / (expense) for the period
Transactions with owners,
recorded directly in equity
Contributions by and
distributions to owners
Share-based expenses
Dividends to equity shareholders
Disposal of own shares
Total contributions by and
distributions to owners
Total transactions with owners of
the Company
At 31 December 2013
49,845
22,695
(9,512)
75,394
(213,067)
(162) 246,944
172,137
3,295
175,432
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
75
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
1 Accounting policies
Significant accounting policies
Marshalls plc (the "Company") is a Company domiciled in the United Kingdom. The Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company for the
year ended 31 December 2014 comprise the Company and its subsidiaries (together referred to as the "Group").
The Consolidated Financial Statements were authorised for issue by the Directors on 6 March 2015.
The following paragraphs summarise the significant accounting policies of the Group, which have been applied consistently in dealing with
items which are considered material in relation to the Group’s Consolidated Financial Statements.
The Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with IFRSs as adopted for use in the EU. The Group has applied all
accounting standards and interpretations issued by the IASB and International Financial Reporting Committee relevant to its operations and
which are effective in respect of these Financial Statements.
The following new accounting standards and amendments to standards are mandatory and have been adopted for the first time in the year
ended 31 December 2014:
— IFRS 10 – "Consolidated Financial Statements" and IAS 27 – "Separate Financial Statements", IFRS 11 – "Joint Arrangements" and IAS 28
– "Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures". These are part of a new suite of standards on consolidation and related standards,
replacing the existing accounting for subsidiaries and joint ventures (now joint arrangements) and making limited amendments in
relation to associates.
— IFRS 12 – "Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities". This contains the disclosure requirements for entities that have interests in subsidiaries,
joint arrangements (i.e. joint operations or joint ventures), associates and/or unconsolidated structured entities.
These standards have not had a material impact on the Consolidated Financial Statements.
(a) Statement of compliance
The Group Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared and approved by the Directors in accordance with International Financial
Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union ("adopted IFRSs"). The Parent Company has elected to prepare its Financial Statements
in accordance with FRS 101 (transitioned from UK GAAP); these are presented on pages 109 to 118.
(b) Basis of preparation
The Group's business activities, together with the factors likely to affect its future development, performance and position are set out in the
Strategic Report on pages 1 to 30. The financial position of the Group, its cash flows, liquidity position and borrowing facilities are also set out
in the Strategic Report. In addition, Note 18 includes the Group's policies and procedures for managing its capital; its financial risk management
objectives; details of its financial instruments; and its exposures to credit risk and liquidity risk.
Details of the Group's funding position are set out in Note 18 and are subject to normal covenant arrangements. The Group's on-demand
overdraft facility is reviewed on an annual basis and the current arrangements were renewed and signed on 16 July 2014. In the opinion of the
Directors there are sufficient unutilised facilities held which mature after 12 months. The Group's performance is dependent on economic and
market conditions, the outlook for which is difficult to predict. Based on current expectations, the Group's cash forecasts continue to meet
half-year and year end bank covenants and there is adequate headroom which is not dependent on facility renewals. The Directors believe that
the Group is well placed to manage its business risks successfully. Accordingly, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing
the Consolidated Financial Statements.
The Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared on the historical cost basis except that the following assets and liabilities are stated at their
fair value: derivative financial instruments and liabilities for cash-settled share-based payments.
The accounting policies have been applied consistently throughout the Group for the purposes of these Consolidated Financial Statements
and are also set out on the Company’s website (www.marshalls.co.uk).
The Consolidated Financial Statements are presented in sterling, rounded to the nearest thousand.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with adopted IFRSs requires management to make judgements, estimates and
assumptions that affect the application of policies and reported amounts of assets and liabilities, income and expenses. The estimates
and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the
circumstances, the results of which form the basis of making the judgements about carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily
apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period
in which the estimate is revised, if the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects
both current and future periods.
76
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements 1 Accounting policies continued
Significant accounting policies continued
(b) Basis of preparation continued
Judgements made by management in the application of adopted IFRSs that have a significant effect on the Consolidated Financial Statements
and estimates with a significant risk of material adjustment in the next year are discussed in Note 27.
(c) Basis of consolidation
(i) Subsidiaries
Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the Company. Control exists when the Company has the power, directly or indirectly, to govern the
financial and operating policies of an entity so as to obtain benefits from its activities. In assessing control, potential voting rights that presently
are exercisable or convertible are taken into account. The Financial Statements of subsidiaries are included in the Consolidated Financial
Statements from the date that control commences until the date that control ceases.
(ii) Associates (equity accounted investees)
Associates are those entities in which the Group has significant influence, but not control, over the financial and operating policies. Significant
influence is presumed to exist when the Group holds between 20 and 50 per cent of the voting power of another entity. Associates are
accounted for using the equity method (equity accounted investees) and are recognised initially at cost. The Group's investment includes
goodwill identified on acquisition, net of any accumulated impairment losses. The Consolidated Financial Statements include the Group's share
of the income and expenses and equity movements of equity accounted investees, after adjustment to align the accounting policies with
those of the Group, from the date that significant influence commences until the date that significant influence ceases. When the Group's
share of losses exceeds its interest in an equity accounted investee, the carrying amount of that interest (including any long-term investments)
is reduced to nil and the recognition of further losses is discontinued except to the extent that the Group has an obligation or has made
payments on behalf of the investee.
(iii) Transactions eliminated on consolidation
Intra-group balances and any unrealised gains and losses or income and expenses arising from intra-group transactions, are eliminated
in preparing the Consolidated Financial Statements.
(d) Foreign currency transactions
Transactions in foreign currencies are translated to sterling at the foreign exchange rate ruling at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets
and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the balance sheet date are translated to sterling at the foreign exchange rate ruling at that
date. Foreign exchange differences arising on translation are recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement. Non-monetary assets and
liabilities that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction.
For the purposes of presenting Consolidated Financial Statements, the assets and liabilities of the Group's foreign operations are translated at
exchange rates prevailing on the balance sheet date. Income and expense items are translated at the average exchange rates for the period,
unless exchange rates fluctuate significantly during that period in which case the exchange rates at the date of transactions are used.
(e) Derivative financial instruments
The Group uses derivative financial instruments to hedge its exposure to foreign exchange, fuel pricing and interest rate risks arising from
operational, financing and investment activities. In accordance with its treasury policy, the Group does not hold or issue derivative financial
instruments for speculative purposes. However, derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are accounted for as trading instruments.
Derivative financial instruments are recognised at fair value and transaction costs are recognised in the Income Statement when incurred.
The gain or loss on re-measurement to fair value is recognised immediately in the Consolidated Income Statement. However, where derivatives
qualify for hedge accounting, recognition of any resultant gain or loss depends on the nature of the item being hedged (see accounting
policy (f )).
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
77
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continued
1 Accounting policies continued
Significant accounting policies continued
(f) Hedging
(i) Cash flow hedges
Where a derivative financial instrument is designated as a hedge of the variability in cash flows of a recognised asset or liability, or a highly
probable forecasted transaction, the effective part of any gain or loss on the derivative financial instrument is recognised directly in equity.
When the forecasted transaction subsequently results in the recognition of a non-financial asset or non-financial liability, the associated
cumulative gain or loss is removed from equity and included in the initial cost or other carrying amount of the non-financial asset. For cash
flow hedges, other than those covered by the preceding policy statement, the associated cumulative gain or loss is removed from equity and
recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement in the same period or periods during which the hedged forecast transaction affects the
income or expense. The ineffective part of any gain or loss is recognised immediately in the Consolidated Income Statement.
When a hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated or exercised or the entity revokes designation of the hedge relationship but the
hedged forecast transaction is still expected to occur, it no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting. The cumulative gain or loss at that
point remains in equity and is recognised in accordance with the above policy when the transaction occurs. If the hedged transaction is no
longer expected to take place, the cumulative unrealised gain or loss recognised in equity is recognised immediately in the Consolidated
Income Statement and cash flow hedge accounting is discontinued prospectively.
(ii) Economic hedges
Where a derivative financial instrument is used to hedge economically the foreign exchange exposure of a recognised monetary
asset or liability, no hedge accounting is applied and any gain or loss on the hedging instrument is recognised in the Consolidated
Income Statement.
(g) Property, plant and equipment
(i) Owned assets
Items of property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation (see below) and impairment losses (see accounting
policy l). The cost of self-constructed assets includes the cost of materials, direct labour and an appropriate proportion of directly attributable
production overheads.
Certain items of property, plant and equipment that had been revalued to fair value on or prior to 1 January 2004, the date of transition
to adopted IFRSs, are measured on the basis of deemed cost, being the revalued amount at the date of that revaluation.
Where parts of an item of property, plant and equipment have different useful lives, they are accounted for as separate items of property, plant
and equipment.
(ii) Leased assets
Leases in terms of which the Group assumes substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership are classified as finance leases. Property, plant
and equipment acquired by way of finance lease are stated at an amount equal to the lower of its fair value and the present value of the
minimum lease payments at inception of the lease, less accumulated depreciation (see below) and impairment losses (see accounting policy l).
(iii) Subsequent costs
The Group recognises in the carrying amount of an item of property, plant and equipment the cost of replacing part of such an item when that
cost is incurred if it is probable that the future economic benefits embodied within the item will flow to the Group and the cost of the item can
be measured reliably. All other costs are recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement as an expense as incurred.
(iv) Depreciation
Depreciation is charged to the Consolidated Income Statement on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of each part of an item of
property, plant and equipment. Depreciation on quarries is based on estimated rates of extraction. This is based on a comparison between the
volume of relevant material extracted in any given period and the volume of relevant material available for extraction. Depreciation on leased
assets is charged over the shorter of the lease term and their useful economic life. Freehold land is not depreciated. The rates are as follows:
Freehold and long leasehold buildings
Short leasehold property
Fixed plant and equipment
Mobile plant and vehicles
Quarries
–
–
–
–
–
2.5% to 5% per annum
over the period of the lease
3.3% to 25% per annum
14% to 30% per annum
based on rates of extraction
78
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements
1 Accounting policies continued
Significant accounting policies continued
(g) Property, plant and equipment continued
(iv) Depreciation continued
The residual values, useful economic lives and depreciation methods are reassessed annually. Assets under construction are not depreciated
until they are ready for use.
Site preparation costs associated with the development of new stone reserves are capitalised. These costs would include:
— costs of clearing the site (including internal and outsourced labour in relation to site workers);
— professional fees (including fees relating to obtaining planning consent);
— purchase, installation and assembly of any necessary extraction equipment; and
— costs of testing whether the extraction process is functioning properly (net of any sales of test product).
Depreciation commences when commercial extraction commences and is based on the rate of extraction.
In accordance with IAS 37, provision is made for quarry restoration where a legal or constructive obligation exists, it is probable that an outflow
of economic benefits will occur and the financial cost of restoration work can be reliably measured. The lives of quarries are almost always long
and it is difficult to estimate the length with any precision. The majority of quarry restoration work is undertaken while extracting minerals from
new areas (backfilling) and therefore work can be completed without additional cost. As a result of the particular characteristics of the Group's
quarries, the IAS 37 criteria have not been met to date based on the assets so far acquired and therefore, no provisions have been recognised.
(h) Intangible assets
(i) Goodwill
All business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method as at the acquisition date, which is the date on which control
is transferred to the Group.
For acquisitions on or after 1 January 2011, the Group measures goodwill at the acquisition date as:
— the fair value of the consideration transferred; plus
— the recognised amount of any non-controlling interests in the acquiree; plus
— the fair value of the existing equity interest in the acquiree; less
— the net recognised amount (generally fair value) of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed.
When the excess is negative, a bargain purchase gain is recognised immediately in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Costs relating to the acquisition, other than those associated with the issue of debt or equity securities, are expensed as incurred.
Any contingent consideration payable is recognised at fair value at the acquisition date. If the contingent consideration is classified as equity,
it is not remeasured and settlement is accounted for within equity. Otherwise, subsequent changes to the fair value of the contingent
consideration are recognised in profit or loss.
On a transaction-by-transaction basis, the Group elects to measure non-controlling interests either at its fair value or at its proportionate
interest in the recognised amount of the identifiable net assets of the acquiree at the acquisition date.
In respect of business acquisitions that have occurred since 1 January 2004 but before 1 January 2011, goodwill represents the difference
between the cost of the acquisition and the fair value of the net identifiable assets and contingent liabilities acquired. The classification and
accounting treatment of business combinations that occurred prior to 1 January 2011 were not adjusted in preparing the Group’s opening IFRS
balance sheet at 1 January 2011.
In respect of acquisitions prior to 1 January 2004, goodwill is included on the basis of its deemed cost, which represents the amount recorded
under the Group’s previous accounting framework. The classification and accounting treatment of business combinations that occurred prior
to 1 January 2004 were not adjusted in preparing the Group’s opening IFRS balance sheet at 1 January 2004.
Goodwill is subsequently stated at cost less any accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill is allocated to cash generating units and is tested
annually for impairment (see accounting policy l). In respect of equity accounted investees, the carrying amount of goodwill is included in the
carrying amount of the investment in the investee.
In respect of acquisitions where there is a contingent consideration element an accrual is created for the estimated amount payable if it is
probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and this can be measured reliably.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
79
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continued
1 Accounting policies continued
Significant accounting policies continued
(h) Intangible assets continued
(ii) Research and development
Expenditure on research activities, undertaken with the prospect of gaining new scientific or technical knowledge and understanding,
is recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement as an expense as incurred.
Expenditure on development activities, whereby research findings are applied to a plan or design for the production of new or substantially
improved products and processes, is capitalised if the product or process meets the recognition criteria for development expenditure as set
out in IAS 38 – "Intangible Assets". The expenditure capitalised includes all directly attributable costs, from the date which the intangible asset
meets the recognition criteria, necessary to create, produce and prepare the asset to be capable of operating in the manner intended by
management. Other development expenditure is recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement as an expense as incurred. Capitalised
development expenditure is stated at cost less accumulated amortisation (see below) and impairment losses (see accounting policy l).
(iii) Other intangible assets
Other intangible assets that are acquired by the Group are stated at cost less accumulated amortisation (see below) and impairment losses
(see accounting policy l).
Expenditure on internally generated goodwill and brands is recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement as an expense as incurred.
(iv) Subsequent expenditure
Subsequent expenditure on capitalised intangible assets is capitalised only when it increases the future economic benefits embodied in the
specific asset to which it relates. All other expenditure is expensed as incurred.
(v) Amortisation
Amortisation is charged to the Consolidated Income Statement on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of intangible assets
unless such lives are indefinite. Goodwill is systematically tested for impairment at each balance sheet date. Other intangible assets are
amortised from the date they are available for use. The rates applied are as follows:
Customer and supplier relationships
Patents, trademarks and know-how
Development costs
Software
–
–
–
–
5 to 20 years
2 to 20 years
10 to 20 years
5 to 10 years
(i) Trade and other receivables
Trade and other receivables are stated at their nominal amount (discounted if material) less impairment losses (see accounting policy l).
(j) Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Net realisable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course
of business, less the estimated costs to completion and of selling expenses.
The cost of inventories is based on the first-in, first-out principle and includes expenditure incurred in acquiring the inventories and bringing
them to their existing location and condition. In the case of manufactured inventories and work in progress, cost includes an appropriate share
of overheads based on normal operating capacity which were incurred in bringing the inventories to their present location and condition.
(k) Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash balances and call deposits. Bank overdrafts that are repayable on demand and form an integral part of the
Group’s cash management are included as a component of cash and cash equivalents for the purpose of the Consolidated Cash Flow Statement.
(l) Impairment
(i) Impairment review
The carrying amounts of the Group’s assets, other than inventories (see accounting policy j) and deferred tax assets (see accounting policy v),
are reviewed at each balance sheet date to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. If any such indication exists, the asset’s
recoverable amount is estimated.
For goodwill, assets that have an indefinite useful life and intangible assets that are not yet available for use, the recoverable amount is
estimated at each balance sheet date.
80
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements
1 Accounting policies continued
Significant accounting policies continued
(l) Impairment continued
(i) Impairment review continued
An impairment loss is recognised whenever the carrying amount of an asset or its cash generating unit exceeds its recoverable amount.
Impairment losses are recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Impairment losses recognised in respect of cash-generating units are allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated
to cash-generating units and then, to reduce the carrying amount of the other assets in the unit on a pro-rata basis. A cash-generating unit
is the group of assets identified on acquisition that generate cash inflows that are largely independent of the cash inflows from other assets
or groups of assets.
The recoverable amount of assets or cash-generating units is the greater of their fair value less costs to sell and value in use. In assessing
value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market
assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. For an asset that does not generate largely independent cash
inflows, the recoverable amount is determined for the cash-generating unit to which the asset belongs.
(ii) Reversals of impairments
An impairment loss in respect of goodwill is not reversed. In respect of other assets, an impairment loss is reversed if there has been a change
in the estimates used to determine the recoverable amount.
An impairment loss is reversed only to the extent that the asset’s carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have
been determined, net of depreciation or amortisation, if no impairment loss had been recognised.
(m) Share capital
(i) Share capital
Share capital is classified as equity if it is non-redeemable and any dividends are discretionary, or is redeemable but only at the Company’s
option. Dividends on share capital classified as equity are recognised as distributions within equity. Non-equity share capital is classified as
a liability if it is redeemable on a specific date or at the option of the shareholders or if dividend payments are not discretionary. Dividends
thereon are recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement as a financial expense.
(ii) Dividends
Dividends on non-equity shares are recognised as a liability and accounted for on an accruals basis. Equity dividends are recognised
as a liability in the period in which they are declared (appropriately authorised and no longer at the discretion of the Company).
(n) Interest-bearing borrowings
Interest-bearing borrowings are recognised initially at fair value less attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition,
interest-bearing borrowings are stated at amortised cost with any difference between cost and redemption value being recognised
in the Consolidated Income Statement over the period of the borrowings on an effective interest basis.
(o) Pension schemes
(i) Defined benefit schemes
The net obligation in respect of the Group’s defined benefit pension scheme is calculated by estimating the amount of future benefit that
employees have earned in return for their service in the current and prior periods; that benefit is discounted to determine its present value,
and the fair value of any scheme assets is deducted. The discount rate is the yield at the balance sheet date on AA credit rated corporate bonds
that have maturity dates approximating to the terms of the Group’s obligations. The calculation is performed by a qualified actuary using the
projected unit credit method.
If the calculation results in a surplus, the resulting asset is measured at the lower of the amount of any cumulative unrecognised net actuarial
losses and past service cost and the present value of any economic benefits available in the form of refunds from the plan, or reductions
in future contributions to the plan. The present value of these economic benefits is discounted by reference to market yields at the balance
sheet date on high quality corporate bonds.
When the benefits of the Scheme are improved, the portion of the increased benefit relating to past service by employees is recognised
as an expense in the Income Statement on a straight-line basis over the average period until the benefits become vested. To the extent
that the benefits vest immediately, the expense is recognised immediately in the Income Statement.
Actuarial gains and losses that arise in calculating the Group’s obligation in respect of a plan are recognised immediately within the
Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income.
(ii) Defined contribution schemes
Obligations for contributions to defined contribution schemes are recognised as an expense in the Income Statement as incurred.
Marshalls plc
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1 Accounting policies continued
Significant accounting policies continued
(p) Share-based payment transactions
The Group enters into equity settled share-based payment transactions with its employees. In particular, annual awards are made to employees
under the Company's incentive schemes which include the Management Incentive Plan ("MIP"), Performance Incentive Plan ("PIP") and the
Long Term Incentive Plans ("LTIP").
The fair value of options granted is recognised as an employee expense with a corresponding increase in equity. The fair value is measured at
grant date and spread over the period during which the employees become unconditionally entitled to the options. Where appropriate, the
fair value of the options granted is measured using the Black-Scholes option valuation model, taking into account the terms and conditions
upon which the options were granted. The amount recognised as an expense is adjusted to reflect the actual number of awards for which the
related service and non-market vesting conditions are expected to be met, such that the amount ultimately recognised as an expense is based
on the number of awards that do meet the related service and non-market performance conditions at the vesting date.
Current tax relief is available as shares vest based on the value at the date of vesting. A deferred tax asset is recognised at grant date based on
the number of shares expected to be issued, at the value at which they are expected to be issued, proportioned in line with the vesting period.
(q) Own shares held by the Employee Benefit Trust
Transactions of the Group-sponsored Employee Benefit Trust are included in the Group Financial Statements. In particular, the Trust’s purchases
of shares in the Company are debited directly to equity.
(r) Provisions
A provision is recognised in the Consolidated Balance Sheet when the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of a past
event, it can be measured reliably, and it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation. If the effect
is material, provisions are determined by discounting the expected future cash flows at a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments
of the time value of money and the risks specific to the liability.
A provision for restructuring is recognised when the Group has approved a detailed and formal restructuring plan, and the restructuring has
either commenced or has been announced publicly. Future operating costs are not provided for.
(s) Trade and other payable
Trade and other payables are stated at nominal amount (discounted if material).
(t) Revenue
Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement upon the despatch of goods, when the significant risks
and rewards of ownership of the goods have been transferred to the buyer. Revenue represents the invoiced value of sales to customers less
returns, allowances and value added tax.
No revenue is recognised if there are significant uncertainties regarding recovery of the consideration due or the possible return of goods
or continuing management involvement with the goods.
(u) Expenses
(i) Operating lease payments
Payments made under operating leases are recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement on a straight-line basis over the term of the
lease. Lease incentives received are recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement over the life of the lease.
(ii) Finance lease payments
Minimum lease payments are apportioned between the finance charge and the reduction of the outstanding liability. The finance charge is
allocated to each period during the lease term so as to produce a constant periodic rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability.
(iii) Financial expenses
Net financial expenses comprise interest on obligations under the defined benefit pension scheme, the expected return on scheme assets
under the defined benefit pension scheme, interest payable on borrowings (including finance leases) calculated using the effective interest
rate method, dividends on non-equity shares, interest receivable on funds invested, dividend income, foreign exchange gains and losses,
and gains and losses on hedging instruments that are recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement (see accounting policy f ).
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Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements 1 Accounting policies continued
Significant accounting policies continued
(v) Income tax
Income tax on the profit or loss for the year comprises current and deferred taxation. Income tax is recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement
except to the extent that it relates to items recognised directly in equity, in which case it is recognised in equity.
Current tax is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the year, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the balance
sheet date, and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous years.
Deferred taxation is provided using the balance sheet liability method, providing for temporary differences between the carrying amounts of
assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for taxation purposes. The following temporary differences are not
provided for: the initial recognition of goodwill, the initial recognition of assets or liabilities that affect neither accounting nor taxable profit,
other than in a business combination, and differences relating to investments in subsidiaries to the extent that they will probably not reverse in
the foreseeable future. The amount of deferred taxation provided is based on the expected manner of realisation or settlement of the carrying
amount of assets and liabilities, using tax rates that are expected to apply when the temporary difference reverses, based on rates that have
been enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date.
A deferred taxation asset is recognised only to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which the asset
can be utilised. Deferred taxation assets are reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that the related tax benefit will be realised.
Additional income taxes that arise from the distribution of dividends are recognised at the same time as the liability to pay the related dividend.
(w) Segment reporting
IFRS 8 – "Operating Segments" requires operating segments to be identified on the basis of discrete financial information about components
of the Group that are regularly reviewed by the Group’s Chief Operating Decision Maker ("CODM") to allocate resources to the segments and
to assess their performance. As far as Marshalls is concerned the CODM is regarded as being the Executive Directors. The Directors have
concluded that, due to a change in the way information is reported to the CODM to include business unit level information, the detailed
requirements of IFRS 8 now support the reporting of the Group’s Landscape Products business as a reportable segment which includes the
UK operations of the Marshalls Landscape Products hard landscaping business, servicing both the UK Domestic and the UK Public Sector and
Commercial end markets. Financial information for Landscape Products is now reported to the Group’s CODM for the assessment of segment
performance and to facilitate resource allocation.
2 Segmental analysis
Segment revenues and results
2014
2013
Total revenue
Inter-segment revenue
External revenue
Segment operating profit
Unallocated administration costs
Share of profits of associates
Operating profit
Finance charges (net)
Profit before tax
Taxation
Profit after tax
Landscape
Products
£’000
279,500
(194)
279,306
36,066
Other
£’000
83,941
(4,731)
79,210
(4,549)*
Total
£’000
363,441
(4,925)
358,516
31,517
(6,330)
118
25,305
(2,884)
22,421
(4,198)
18,223
* After charging £1,995,000 in respect of restructuring costs in the Belgian business.
Landscape
Products
£’000
242,386
(87)
242,299
25,591
Other
£’000
69,938
(4,847)
65,091
(4,850)
Total
£’000
312,324
(4,934)
307,390
20,741
(4,665)
14
16,090
(3,064)
13,026
(67)
12,959
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
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Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continued
2 Segmental analysis continued
Segment revenues and results continued
The Landscape Products reportable segment operates a national manufacturing plan that is structured around a series of production units
throughout the UK, in conjunction with a single logistics and distribution operation. A national planning process supports sales to both of
the key end markets, namely the UK Domestic and Public Sector and Commercial end markets and the operating assets produce and deliver
a range of broadly similar products that are sold into each of these end markets. Within the Landscape Products operating segment the focus
is on the one integrated production, logistics and distribution network supporting both end markets.
Included in "Other" are the Group’s Street Furniture, Mineral Products, Stone Cladding and International operations which do not currently
meet the IRFS 8 reporting requirements.
The accounting policies of the Landscape Products operating segment are the same as the Group's accounting policies. Segment profit
represents the profit earned without allocation of the share of profit of associates and certain central administration costs that are not capable
of allocation. Centrally administered overhead costs that relate directly to the reportable segment are included within the segment's results.
Segment assets
Fixed assets and inventory:
Landscape Products
Other
Total segment fixed assets and inventory
Unallocated assets
Consolidated total assets
2014
£’000
2013
£'000
156,509
60,559
217,068
98,780
315,848
163,276
62,252
225,528
93,386
318,914
For the purpose of monitoring segment performance and allocating resources between segments the Group's CODM monitors the tangible
fixed assets and inventory. Assets used jointly by reportable segments are not allocated to individual reportable segments.
Other segment information
Depreciation and amortisation
Fixed asset additions
Landscape Products
Other
Geographical destination of revenue
United Kingdom
Rest of the World
2014
£’000
9,919
3,294
13,213
2013
£’000
10,467
3,670
14,137
2014
£’000
7,994
4,016
12,010
2014
£’000
337,475
21,041
358,516
2013
£’000
3,243
2,815
6,058
2013
£'000
290,855
16,535
307,390
The Group's revenue is subject to seasonal fluctuations resulting from demand from customers. In particular, demand is higher in the summer
months. The Group manages the seasonal impact through the use of a seasonal working capital facility.
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Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements 3 Net operating costs
Raw materials and consumables
Changes in inventories of finished goods and work in progress
Personnel costs
Depreciation
– owned
– leased
Amortisation of intangible assets
Own work capitalised
Other operating costs
International "start-up" costs
Restructuring costs in Marshalls NV (page 26)
Operating costs
Other operating income
Net gain on asset and property disposals
Share of results of associates
Net operating costs
Net operating costs include:
Auditor’s remuneration (see below)
Leasing costs
Hire of plant and machinery
Research and development costs
In respect of the year under review, KPMG LLP carried out work in relation to:
Audit of Marshalls plc
Audit of financial statements of subsidiaries of the Company
Half-yearly review of Marshalls plc
Taxation compliance services
2014
£’000
137,250
(3,484)
93,439
11,907
75
1,231
(1,473)
94,910
–
1,995
335,850
(2,161)
(360)
(118)
2013
£'000
117,176
1,470
80,549
13,041
158
938
(1,071)
80,425
84
–
292,770
(1,325)
(131)
(14)
333,211
291,300
2014
£’000
167
8,081
4,640
2,684
2014
£’000
20
103
40
4
167
2013
£'000
169
7,305
4,769
2,775
2013
£'000
20
103
40
6
169
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
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Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continued
4 Personnel costs
Personnel costs (including amounts charged in the year in relation to Directors):
Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Share-based expenses
Contributions to defined contribution pension scheme
Included within net operating costs (Note 3)
Personnel costs included in profit on discontinued operations (Note 7)
Personnel costs included in operational restructuring costs
2014
£’000
76,645
8,960
3,062
4,772
93,439
–
507
2013
£'000
67,119
7,636
1,658
4,136
80,549
656
–
Total personnel costs
93,946
81,205
Remuneration of Directors:
Salary
Other benefits
PIP bonus
MIP Element A bonus
MIP Element B bonus
Amounts receivable under the LTIP
Pension allowances
Non-Executive Directors’ fees and fixed allowances
2014
£’000
859
46
–
877
333
2,729
205
300
5,349
2013
£'000
918
55
643
–
–
3,537
261
289
5,703
The aggregate of emoluments and amounts receivable under the PIP and the LTIP of the highest paid Director was £1,924,000 (2013: £2,900,000)
including a salary supplement pension allowance of £54,000 (2013: £96,000).
There are no Directors to whom retirement benefits are accruing in respect of qualifying services. As set out in the Remuneration Report
on page 47, the Executive Directors receive a pension allowance equal to their contractual entitlement of 20 per cent of basic salary.
Further details of Directors’ remuneration, share options, long term incentive plans and Directors’ pension entitlements are disclosed
in the Remuneration Report on pages 43 to 61.
The average number of persons employed by the Group during the year was:
Continuing operations
5 Financial expenses and income
(a) Financial expenses
Interest expense on defined benefit pension scheme
Interest expense on bank loans, overdrafts and loan notes
Finance lease interest expense
(b) Financial income
Expected return on the defined benefit pension scheme
Interest receivable and similar income
86
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
2014
Number
2,132
2014
£’000
48
2,835
6
2,889
–
5
5
2013
Number
2,042
2013
£'000
–
3,638
11
3,649
576
9
585
Financial Statements 6 Income tax expense
Current tax expense
Current year
Adjustments for prior years
Deferred taxation expense
Origination and reversal of temporary differences:
Current year
Adjustments for prior years
Income tax expense in the Consolidated Income Statement (continuing operations)
Tax on discontinued operations
Total tax expense
Reconciliation of effective tax rate
Profit before tax:
Continuing operations
Tax using domestic corporation tax rate
Disallowed amortisation of intangible assets
Net income / (expenditure) not taxable
Adjustments for prior years
Impact of the change in the rate of corporation tax on deferred taxation
%
2014
£'000
100.0
21.5
0.1
2.3
(5.2)
–
18.7
22,421
4,821
20
510
(1,153)
–
4,198
2014
£’000
5,670
(1,834)
3,836
(319)
681
4,198
–
4,198
%
100.0
23.3
0.3
6.4
(9.5)
(20.0)
0.5
2013
£'000
4,251
(1,642)
2,609
(2,944)
402
67
210
277
2013
£’000
13,026
3,051
33
839
(1,240)
(2,616)
67
The net amount of deferred taxation (debited) / credited to the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income in the year was £393,000
credit (2013: £3,912,000 credit).
7 Discontinued operations
On 30 April 2013 the Group completed the sale of aggregate quarries to Breedon Aggregates England Limited for cash consideration of
£17.5 million. The assets sold comprised quarries solely supplying aggregates, sand and gravel. The Group retained all of its dimensional stone
quarries, some of which produce aggregate as an ancillary product. The disposed quarries were the freehold and leasehold quarries at
Clearwell, near Lydney, Gloucestershire, which produces primarily high quality limestone aggregates and the Group's sand and gravel quarries
located at Dunsville, near Hatfield, South Yorkshire, Astley Moss in Greater Manchester and Mold in North Wales which operates under the
Lloyds Sand and Gravel trading name and the business carried on from these quarries. Also included was an option to develop sand and gravel
resources near Saredon, Staffordshire. On 23 August 2013 additional consideration of £1.2 million was received following the satisfactory
completion of a post completion condition. This condition had required the commissioning of a sand extraction plant to the satisfaction of
the purchaser. The additional consideration, net of attributable costs, gave rise to a post tax profit of discontinued operations of £0.5 million.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
87
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continued
7 Discontinued operations continued
The results of the discontinued operations which have been included in the Consolidated Income Statement were as follows:
Revenue
Net operating costs
Profit before tax
Income tax expense
Profit after tax
Profit on disposal and closure of discontinued operations
Net profit attributable to discontinued operations
Basic earnings per share (pence)
Diluted earnings per share (pence)
2014
£’000
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
2013
£'000
2,989
(2,648)
341
(110)
231
272
503
0.26
0.25
8 Earnings per share
Basic earnings per share from total operations of 10.13 pence (2013: 7.20 pence) per share is calculated by dividing the profit attributable to
ordinary shareholders from total operations, after adjusting for non-controlling interests, of £19,857,000 (2013: £14,096,000) by the weighted
average number of shares in issue during the period of 196,116,404 (2013: 195,742,757).
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations of 10.13 pence (2013: 6.94 pence) per share is calculated by dividing the profit from
continuing operations, after adjusting for non-controlling interests, of £19,857,000 (2013: £13,593,000) by the weighted average number
of shares in issue during the year of 196,116,404 (2013: 195,742,757).
Profit attributable to ordinary shareholders
Profit from continuing operations
Profit from discontinued operations
Profit for the financial period
Loss attributable to non-controlling interests
Profit attributable to ordinary shareholders
Weighted average number of ordinary shares
Number of issued ordinary shares (at beginning of the period)
Effect of shares transferred into employee benefit trust
Effect of treasury shares acquired
Weighted average number of ordinary shares at end of the period
2014
£’000
18,223
–
18,223
1,634
19,857
2013
£'000
12,959
503
13,462
634
14,096
2014
Number
2013
Number
199,378,755
199,378,755
(3,262,351)
–
(1,210,998)
(2,425,000)
196,116,404
195,742,757
Diluted earnings per share from total operations of 9.89 pence (2013: 7.07 pence) per share is calculated by dividing the profit from total
operations, after adjusting for non-controlling interests, of £19,857,000 (2013: £14,096,000) by the weighted average number of shares in issue
during the period of 196,116,404 (2013: 195,742,757) plus potentially dilutive shares of 4,646,375 (2013: 3,635,998) which totals 200,762,799
(2013: 199,378,755).
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations of 9.89 pence (2013: 6.82 pence) per share is calculated by dividing the profit from
continuing operations, after adjusting for non-controlling interests, of £19,857,000 (2013: £13,593,000) by the weighted average number of shares
in issue during the period of 196,116,404 (2013: 195,742,757) plus potentially dilutive shares of 4,646,375 (2013: 3,635,998) which totals
200,762,779 (2013: 199,378,755).
88
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements 8 Earnings per share continued
Weighted average number of ordinary shares (diluted)
Weighted average number of ordinary shares
Potentially dilutive shares
Effect of treasury shares acquired
Weighted average number of ordinary shares (diluted)
2014
Number
2013
Number
196,116,404
195,742,757
4,646,375
–
1,210,998
2,425,000
200,762,779
199,378,755
9 Dividends
After the balance sheet date a dividend of 4.00 pence (2013: 3.50 pence) per qualifying ordinary share was proposed by the Directors.
The dividend has not been provided for and there are no income tax consequences. The total dividends proposed in respect of the year
are as follows:
2014 final
2014 interim
2013 final
2013 interim
The following dividends were approved by the shareholders and recognised in the period:
2014 interim
2013 final
2013 interim
2012 final
2014
£’000
7,975
3,924
11,899
2014
£’000
3,924
6,867
10,791
Pence per
qualifying share
4.00
2.00
6.00
3.50
1.75
5.25
Pence per
qualifying share
2.00
3.50
5.50
1.75
3.50
5.25
2013
£’000
6,861
3,431
10,292
2013
£’000
3,431
6,861
10,292
The 2014 final dividend of 4.00 pence per qualifying ordinary share, with a total value of £7,975,000, will be paid on 3 July 2015 to shareholders
registered at the close of business on 5 June 2015.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
89
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continued
10 Property, plant and equipment
Cost
At 1 January 2013
Exchange differences
Additions
Disposals
Transfers
At 31 December 2013
At 1 January 2014
Exchange differences
Additions
Reclassification
Disposals
At 31 December 2014
Depreciation and impairment losses
At 1 January 2013
Depreciation charge for the year
Exchange differences
Disposals
At 31 December 2013
At 1 January 2014
Depreciation charge for the year
Exchange differences
Reclassification
Disposals
Impairments
At 31 December 2014
Net book value
At 1 January 2013
At 1 January 2014
At 31 December 2014
Land and
buildings
£'000
Quarries
£'000
Plant, machinery
and vehicles
£'000
Total
£’000
88,761
32,268
302,915
423,944
29
115
(196)
634
89,343
89,343
(428)
894
(237)
(3,640)
85,932
Land and
buildings
£'000
32,831
2,366
–
(188)
35,009
35,009
1,567
1
(635)
(1,190)
–
–
486
(12,653)
–
20,101
20,101
–
1,072
237
–
12
4,861
(10,070)
(634)
41
5,462
(22,919)
–
297,084
406,528
297,084
406,528
(236)
9,303
–
(1,301)
(664)
11,269
–
(4,941)
21,410
304,850
412,192
Quarries
£'000
Plant, machinery
and vehicles
£'000
8,247
157
–
(2,618)
5,786
5,786
235
–
635
–
–
207,259
10,932
17
(7,196)
211,012
211,012
10,180
44
–
(930)
733
Total
£’000
248,337
13,455
17
(10,002)
251,807
251,807
11,982
45
–
(2,120)
733
34,752
6,656
221,039
262,447
55,930
54,334
51,180
24,021
14,315
95,656
86,072
175,607
154,721
14,754
83,811
149,745
Mineral reserves and associated land have been separately disclosed under the heading of "Quarries".
The carrying amount of tangible fixed assets includes £568,000 (2013: £215,000) in respect of assets held under finance leases. Group cost of land and
buildings and plant and machinery includes £168,000 (2013: £nil) and £872,000 (2013: £607,000) respectively for assets in the course of construction.
The impairment charge of £733,000 (2013: £nil) relates to the restructuring of the Marshalls NV business (page 26) and writes down their value to their
fair value less costs to sell.
90
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements 2014
£’000
246
2014
£’000
11,982
–
11,982
2013
£'000
569
2013
£'000
13,199
256
13,455
10 Property, plant and equipment continued
Capital commitments
Capital expenditure that has been contracted for but for which no provision has been made
in the Consolidated Financial Statements
Depreciation charge
The depreciation charge is recognised in the following line items in the Consolidated Income Statement:
Net operating costs
Continuing operations (Note 3)
Discontinued operations
11 Intangible assets
Cost
At 1 January 2013
Additions
At 31 December 2013
At 1 January 2014
Additions
Goodwill
£'000
Customer
relationships
£'000
Supplier
relationships and knowhow
£'000
£'000
trademarks Development
costs
£'000
Software
£’000
Total
£'000
Patents,
43,691
–
43,691
2,210
–
2,210
1,200
1,660
–
–
1,200
1,660
159
–
159
9,430
596
58,350
596
10,026
58,946
43,691
2,210
1,200
1,660
159
10,026
58,946
–
–
–
–
–
741
741
At 31 December 2014
43,691
2,210
1,200
1,660
159
10,767
59,687
Amortisation and impairment losses
At 1 January 2013
Amortisation for the year
At 31 December 2013
At 1 January 2014
Amortisation for the year
At 31 December 2014
Carrying amounts
At 1 January 2013
At 1 January 2014
At 31 December 2014
8,912
–
8,912
2,210
–
2,210
8,912
2,210
–
–
8,912
2,210
34,799
34,779
34,779
–
–
–
548
60
608
608
60
668
652
592
532
1,270
32
1,302
1,302
32
1,334
390
358
326
69
8
77
77
8
85
90
82
74
3,928
838
4,766
4,766
1,131
16,937
938
17,875
17,875
1,231
5,897
19,106
5,502
5,260
41,413
41,071
4,870
40,581
All goodwill has arisen from business combinations. The carrying amount of goodwill is allocated across cash generating units ("CGUs") and these
CGUs are independent sources of income streams and represent the lowest level within the Group at which the associated goodwill is monitored for
management purposes. The Group tests goodwill annually for impairment, or more frequently if there are indications that goodwill might be impaired.
The recoverable amounts of the CGUs are determined from value in use calculations and at both 31 December 2014 and 31 December 2013 the full
amount of goodwill in the Group balance sheet related to the Landscape Products CGU. These calculations use cash flow projections based on a
combination of individual financial five year forecasts, containing assumptions for revenue growth and operational gearing, and appropriate long term
growth rates of 2.3 per cent. To prepare value in use calculations, the cash flow forecasts are discounted back to present value using an appropriate
market-based discount rate. The pre-tax discount rates used to calculate the value in use were 9.2 per cent (2013: 9.4 per cent), with the pre-tax
discount rate used for the Landscape Products CGU being 9.2 per cent (2013: 9.4 per cent). The Directors have reviewed the recoverable amounts
of the CGUs and do not consider that any reasonable change in the assumptions would give rise to the need for further impairment.
Included in software additions is £718,000 (2013: £596,000) of own work capitalised.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
91
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continued
11 Intangible assets continued
Amortisation charge
The amortisation charge is recognised in the following line items in the Consolidated Income Statement:
Net operating costs (Note 3): continuing operations
12 Investment in associates
Carrying value
At 1 January
Share of results of associates
At 31 December
Investment at cost
Impairment losses
Cumulative share of results of associates
Carrying value at 31 December
2014
£’000
1,231
2014
£’000
664
118
782
2014
£’000
2,250
(1,566)
98
782
2013
£'000
938
2013
£'000
650
14
664
2013
£'000
2,250
(1,566)
(20)
664
The Group's share of results of associates in the year ended 31 December 2014 was £118,000 profit (2013: £14,000 profit) and, on the grounds
of materiality, no additional disclosure has been made.
13 Inventories
Raw materials and consumables
Finished goods and goods for resale
2014
£’000
13,266
54,057
67,323
2013
£'000
12,311
58,496
70,807
Inventories stated at fair value less cost to sell at 31 December 2014 amounted to £7,875,000 (2013: £8,714,000). The write down of inventories
made during the year amounted to £1,236,000 (2013: £1,437,000). There were no reversals of inventory write-downs made in previous years either
in 2014 or 2013.
14 Trade and other receivables
Trade receivables
Other receivables
Prepayments and accrued income
Ageing of trade receivables
Less than 30 days
31–60 days
61–90 days
More than 90 days
2014
£’000
21,945
2,885
7,424
32,254
2014
£’000
11,084
8,103
2,382
376
21,945
2013
£'000
23,606
2,648
6,119
32,373
2013
£'000
13,790
7,909
1,837
70
23,606
No receivables were due after more than one year. All amounts disclosed above are considered recoverable and no material amounts are
regarded as overdue.
92
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements 15 Cash and cash equivalents
Bank balances
Cash in hand
Cash and cash equivalents in the Consolidated Cash Flow Statement
16 Trade and other payables
Current liabilities
Trade payables
Taxation and social security
Other payables
Accruals
Financial liabilities
All trade payables are due in six months or less.
17 Loans
Current liabilities
Bank loans
Finance lease liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Bank loans
Finance lease liabilities
2014
£’000
20,289
31
20,320
2014
£’000
31,186
8,401
5,828
15,305
3,192
63,912
2014
£’000
–
85
85
50,307
408
50,715
2013
£'000
17,626
26
17,652
2013
£'000
41,018
7,109
4,459
13,012
284
65,882
2013
£'000
3,370
83
3,453
49,627
141
49,768
Bank loans
The bank loans are secured by intra-group guarantees with certain subsidiary undertakings.
Finance lease liabilities
Less than one year
One to two years
Two to five years
In more than five years
Minimum
lease
payments
2014
£'000
95
96
148
200
539
Interest
2014
£'000
Principal
2014
£'000
10
9
16
11
46
85
87
132
189
493
Minimum
lease
payments
2013
£'000
89
59
88
–
236
Interest
2013
£’000
Principal
2013
£'000
6
4
2
–
12
83
55
86
–
224
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
93
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continued
18 Financial instruments
The Group holds and uses financial instruments to finance its operations and to manage its interest rate, liquidity and currency risks. The Group
primarily finances its operations using share capital, retained profits and borrowings. The Group’s bank loans are non-equity funding
instruments and further details of which are set out in Note 17.
As directed by the Board the Group does not engage in speculative activities using derivative financial instruments. Group cash reserves are
held centrally to take advantage of the most rewarding short term investment opportunities. Forward foreign currency contracts are used in
the management of currency risk.
The main risks arising from the Group’s financial instruments are interest rate risk, liquidity risk, foreign currency risk and pricing risk. The Board
reviews and agrees the policies for managing each of these risks and they have remained unchanged since 2013.
Capital management
The Group defines the capital that it manages as its total equity and net debt balances. The Group manages its capital structure in the light of
current economic conditions and its strategic objectives to ensure that it is able to continue as a going concern whilst maximising the return
to stakeholders through the optimisation of debt and equity balances.
The Group manages its medium term bank debt to ensure continuity of funding and the policy is to arrange funding ahead of requirements
and to maintain sufficient undrawn committed facilities. A key objective is to ensure compliance with the covenants set out in the Group's
bank facility agreements.
From time to time the Group purchases its own shares on the market; the timing of these purchases depends on market prices. Primarily
the shares are intended to be used for issuing shares under the Group's incentive schemes. Buy and sell decisions are made on a specific
transaction basis by the Board.
There has been no change in the objectives, policies or processes with regard to capital management during the years ended 31 December 2014
and 31 December 2013.
Financial risks
The Group has exposure to a number of financial risks through the conduct of its operations. Risk management is governed by the Group's
operational policies, guidelines and authorisation procedures which are outlined in the Strategic Report on pages 18 to 20. The key financial
risks resulting from financial instruments are liquidity risk, interest rate risk, credit risk, foreign currency risk and pricing risk.
In managing interest rate and currency risks the Group aims to reduce the impact of short-term fluctuations on the Group’s earnings.
Over the longer term, however, permanent changes in foreign exchange and interest rates would have an impact on consolidated
earnings. For instance, a weakening of pound sterling on the foreign currency market would increase the cost of certain raw materials,
whereas a strengthening would have the opposite effect.
(a) Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they fall due. The Board is responsible for ensuring
that the Group has sufficient liquidity to meet its financial liabilities as they fall due and does so by monitoring cash flow forecasts and budgets.
Cash resources are largely and normally generated through operations and short term flexibility is achieved by bank facilities. Bank debt is
raised centrally and the Group aims to maintain a balance between flexibility and continuity of funding by having a range of maturities on
its borrowings. Details of the Group borrowing facilities are provided on pages 97 and 98.
(b) Interest rate risk
The Group’s policy is to review regularly the terms of its available short term borrowing facilities and to assess individually and manage each
long term borrowing commitment accordingly. The Group borrows principally at floating rates of interest and where appropriate uses interest
rate swaps to generate the desired interest rate profile, thereby managing the Group's exposure to interest rate fluctuations.
Approximately 75 per cent of core debt is covered by interest rate swaps of varying maturities up until 2018, which reflects the maturity date
of the related loans and medium term requirements, in accordance with Group policy. The Group classifies its interest rate swaps as cash flow
hedges and states them at fair value. The fair value of interest rate swaps is £76,000 liability (2013: £151,000 asset) and is adjusted against the
hedging reserve on an ongoing basis.
The period that the swaps cover is matched against the debt maturity in order to fix the impact on the Income Statement. During the year
£536,000 (2013: £1,268,000) has been recognised in Other Comprehensive Income for the year with £320,000 (2013: £544,000) being
reclassified from equity to the Income Statement. The Interest rate swaps have been fully effective in the period.
With the addition of the fuel hedges (Note 18(e)) and forward contracts this gives a total of £3,984,000 (2013: £2,787,000) recognised in Other
Comprehensive Income for the year with £1,076,000 (2013: £1,447,000) being reclassified from equity to the Income Statement.
94
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements 18 Financial instruments continued
Financial risks continued
(b) Interest rate risk continued
Sensitivity analysis
A change of 100 basis points in interest rates at the balance sheet date would have decreased equity and profit by the amounts shown below.
The sensitivity analysis has been undertaken before the effect of tax. The sensitivity analysis of the Group’s exposure to interest rate risk has
been determined based on the change taking place at the beginning of the financial year and held constant throughout the reporting period.
This analysis assumes that all other variables, in particular foreign currency rates, remain constant and considers the effect of financial
instruments with variable interest rates, financial instrument at fair value through profit or loss or available for sale with fixed interest rates
and the fixed rate element of interest rate swaps. The analysis is performed on the same basis for 2013.
Increase of 100 basis points
Decrease of 100 basis points
2014
£’000
(244)
244
2013
£'000
(233)
233
(c) Credit risk
Management has a credit policy in place and the exposure to credit risk is monitored on an ongoing basis. Credit evaluations are performed
on all customers requiring credit over a certain amount and, where appropriate, credit insurance cover is obtained. This provides excellent
intelligence to minimise the number and value of bad debts and ultimately provides compensation if bad debts are incurred. An ageing
of trade receivables is shown in Note 14 on page 92.
Investments are allowed only in liquid securities and only with counterparties that have a credit rating equal to or better than the Group.
Transactions involving derivative financial instruments are with counterparties with whom the Group has a signed netting agreement as
well as sound credit ratings. Given their high credit ratings, management does not expect any counterparty to fail to meet its obligations.
At the balance sheet date there were no significant concentrations of credit risk. The maximum exposure to credit risk is represented by the
carrying amount of each financial asset, including derivative financial instruments, in the balance sheet.
(d) Foreign currency risk
The Group is exposed to foreign currency risk on sales and purchases that are denominated in a currency other than sterling. The currencies
giving rise to this risk are primarily Euros and US Dollars.
The Group’s policy is to cover all significant foreign currency commitments in respect of trade receivables and trade payables by using forward
foreign currency contracts. Most of the forward exchange contacts have maturities of less than one year after the balance sheet date. Where
necessary, the forward exchange contracts are rolled over at maturity.
The Group classifies its forward exchange contracts hedging forecasted transactions as cash flow hedges and states them at fair value. The fair
value of forward exchange contracts is £16,000 asset (2013: £5,000 asset) and is adjusted against the hedging reserve on an ongoing basis. At
31 December 2014 all outstanding forward exchange contracts have a maturity date within six months.
The foreign currency profile of monetary items was:
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade receivables
Secured bank loans
Trade payables
2014
Sterling
£'000
18,807
19,102
2014
Euro
£'000
2014
US Dollars
£'000
2014
Total
£'000
1,254
2,693
259
150
20,320
21,945
2013
Sterling
£'000
16,406
21,058
2013
Euro
£'000
1,190
2,548
(35,000)
(15,307)
–
(50,307)
(40,000)
(12,997)
2013
US Dollars
£'000
56
–
–
2013
Total
£'000
17,652
23,606
(52,997)
(22,729)
(7,901)
(556)
(31,186)
(32,514)
(7,690)
(814)
(41,018)
Forward exchange contracts
(3,175)
(17)
–
(3,192)
(221)
(63)
–
(284)
Balance sheet exposure
(22,995)
(19,278)
(147)
(42,420)
(35,271)
(17,012)
(758)
(53,041)
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
95
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continued
18 Financial instruments continued
Financial risks continued
(d) Foreign currency risk continued
A 10 per cent strengthening and weakening of the following currencies against the pound sterling at 31 December 2014 would have
increased/decreased equity and profit or loss by the amounts shown below. This calculation assumes that the change occurred at the balance
sheet date and had been applied to risk exposures existing at that date.
This analysis assumes that all other variables, in particular other exchange rates and interest rates, remain constant. The analysis is performed
on the same basis for 2013:
10 per cent strengthening of £ against €
10 per cent weakening of £ against €
10 per cent strengthening of £ against $
10 per cent weakening of £ against $
2014
£’000
1,895
(1,895)
17
(17)
2013
£'000
1,576
(1,576)
96
(96)
(e) Pricing risks
Where appropriate the Group uses hedging instruments to mitigate the risks of significant forward price rises of fuel in relation to expected
consumption. The current hedges held are in place until 31 December 2014. The Group classifies its fuel hedges as cash flow hedges and states
them at fair value. The fair value of the fuel hedges is £3,132,000 liability (2013: £440,000 liability) and is adjusted against the hedging reserve
on an ongoing basis. The period that the fuel hedges cover is matched against future expected purchases in order to fix the impact on the
Income Statement. During the year £3,448,000 (2013: £1,519,000) has been recognised in other Comprehensive Income with £756,000
(2013: £903,000) being reclassified from equity to the Income Statement. The fuel hedges have been fully effective in the period.
(f) Other risks
Further information about the Group's strategic and financial risks is contained in the Strategic Report on pages 18 to 20.
Effective interest rates and maturity of liabilities
At 31 December 2014 there were £493,000 (2013: £224,000) Group borrowings on a fixed rate. Interest rate swaps have been taken out with
the intention to fix the interest on 75 per cent of the Group’s core debt. The interest rate profile of the financial liabilities were:
Fixed or
variable
rate
Effective
interest rate
%
Total
£'000
6 months
or less
£'000
6 – 12
months
£'000
1 – 2 years
£’000
2 – 5 years
£'000
More than
5 years
£'000
31 December 2014
Cash and cash equivalents (Note 15)
Bank loans
Finance lease liabilities
31 December 2013
Cash and cash equivalents (Note 15)
Bank loans
Finance lease liabilities
Variable
Variable
Fixed
2.41
2.41
8.80
(20,320)
(20,320)
50,307
493
–
26
30,480
(20,294)
–
–
59
59
–
–
15,000
35,307
87
132
15,087
35,439
–
–
189
189
Fixed or
variable
rate
Effective
interest rate
%
Total
£'000
6 months
or less
£'000
6 – 12
months
£'000
1 – 2 years
£’000
2 – 5 years
£'000
More than
5 years
£'000
Variable
Variable
Fixed
2.46
2.46
5.33
(17,652)
(17,652)
–
–
–
52,997
224
–
41
3,370
25,000
24,627
42
55
86
35,569
(17,611)
3,412
25,055
24,713
–
–
–
–
96
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements 18 Financial instruments continued
Financial risks continued
Effective interest rates and maturity of liabilities continued
At 31 December the undiscounted outstanding contractual payments (including interest) of financial liabilities was as follows:
Fixed or
variable
rate
Carrying
value
£'000
Total
£'000
6 months
or less
£'000
6 – 12
months
£'000
1 – 2 years
£’000
2 – 5 years
£'000
More than
5 years
£'000
31 December 2014
Bank loans
Trade payables
Finance lease liabilities
Financial liabilities
31 December 2013
Bank loans
Trade payables
Finance lease liabilities
Financial liabilities
Variable
50,307
53,485
504
501
15,901
36,579
Variable
31,186
31,186
31,186
Fixed
Fixed
493
3,192
539
3,345
31
–
64
–
96
1,050
1,005
1,247
–
148
43
85,178
88,555
32,771
1,570
17,244
36,770
–
–
200
–
200
Fixed or
variable
rate
Carrying
value
£'000
Total
£'000
6 months
or less
£'000
6 – 12
months
£'000
1 – 2 years
£’000
2 – 5 years
£'000
More than
5 years
£'000
Variable
Variable
Fixed
Fixed
52,997
41,018
224
284
55,256
41,018
236
921
565
41,018
44
386
3,902
25,848
24,941
–
45
306
–
59
92
–
88
137
94,523
97,431
42,013
4,253
25,999
25,166
–
–
–
–
–
Borrowing facilities
The total bank borrowing facilities at 31 December 2014 amounted to £125.0 million (2013: £145.0 million) of which £74.7 million (2013: £92.0 million)
remained unutilised. There are additional seasonal bank working capital facilities of £20.0 million available between 1 February and 31 August each
year. The undrawn facilities available at 31 December 2014, in respect of which all conditions precedent had been met, were as follows:
Committed:
Expiring in more than two years but not more than five years
Expiring in one year or less
Uncommitted:
Expiring in one year or less
2014
£’000
34,693
25,000
15,000
74,693
2013
£'000
50,373
16,630
25,000
92,003
The committed facilities are all revolving credit facilities with interest charged at a variable rate based on LIBOR.
The total borrowing facilities at 31 December 2014 amounted to £125.0 million. This was due to the Group's decision to reduce its uncommitted
loan facilities by £10.0 million on 16 July 2014 and the refinancing on 21 August 2014 of two existing committed loan facilities totalling in
aggregate £50.0 million with extended maturity dates to 2017 and 2018 at newly arranged levels totalling £40.0 million. An additional loan
facility of £20.0 million reached maturity on 20 August 2014 and has been refinanced with an extended maturity date to 2019.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
97
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continued
18 Financial instruments continued
Borrowing facilities continued
The maturity profile of borrowing facilities is structured to provide balanced, committed and phased medium term debt. The current facilities
are set out as follows:
Committed facilities:
Q3: 2019
Q3: 2018
Q3: 2017
Q3: 2016
Q3: 2015
On demand facilities:
Available all year
Seasonal (February to August inclusive)
Facility
£’000
20,000
20,000
20,000
25,000
25,000
15,000
20,000
Fair values of financial assets and financial liabilities
A comparison by category of the book values and fair values of the financial assets and liabilities of the Group at 31 December 2014 is
shown below:
Trade and other receivables
Cash and cash equivalents
Bank loans
Finance lease liabilities
Trade and other payables
Interest rate swaps, forward contracts and fuel hedges
Financial liabilities – net
Other assets – net
Fair value
£’000
32,254
20,320
(49,451)
(539)
(60,720)
(3,192)
2014
Book amount
£’000
32,254
20,320
(50,307)
(493)
(60,720)
(3,192)
(62,138)
244,032
181,894
2013
Book amount
£’000
32,373
17,652
(52,997)
(224)
(65,598)
(284)
(69,078)
244,510
175,432
Cumulative
facility
£'000
20,000
40,000
60,000
85,000
110,000
125,000
145,000
Fair value
£’000
32,373
17,652
(52,061)
(236)
(65,598)
(284)
Estimation of fair values
The following summarises the major methods and assumptions used in estimating the fair values of financial instruments reflected in the table.
(a) Derivatives
Derivative contracts are either marked to market using listed market prices or by discounting the contractual forward price at the relevant rate
and deducting the current spot rate. For interest rate swaps broker quotes are used.
(b) Interest-bearing loans and borrowings
Fair value is calculated based on the expected future principal and interest cash flows discounted at the market rate of interest at the balance
sheet date.
(c) Finance lease liabilities
The fair value is estimated as the present value of future cash flows, discounted at market interest rates for homogeneous lease agreements.
The estimated fair values reflect changes in interest rates.
(d) Trade and other receivables/payables
For receivables/payables with a remaining life of less than one year, the notional amount is deemed to reflect the fair value. All other
receivables/payables are discounted to determine the fair value.
98
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements
18 Financial instruments continued
Borrowing facilities continued
Estimation of fair values continued
e) Fair value hierarchy
The table below analyses financial instruments, measured at fair value, into a fair value hierarchy based on the valuation techniques used
to determine fair value.
— Level 1 : quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
— Level 2 : inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly (i.e. as prices)
or indirectly (i.e. derived from prices).
— Level 3 : inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on observable market data (unobservable inputs).
31 December 2014
Derivative financial liabilities
31 December 2013
Derivative financial liabilities
Level 1
£'000
–
–
Level 2
£'000
3,192
284
Level 3
£'000
–
–
Total
£’000
3,192
284
19 Employee benefits
The Company sponsors a funded defined benefit pension scheme ("the Scheme") in the UK. The Scheme is administered within a trust which
is legally separate from the Company. The Trustee Board is appointed by both the Company and the Scheme's membership and acts in the
interest of the Scheme and all relevant stakeholders, including the members and the Company. The Trustee is also responsible for the
investment of the Scheme's assets.
The defined benefit section of the Scheme closed to future service accrual with effect from 30 June 2006 and members no longer pay
contributions to the defined benefit section. Company contributions after this date are used to fund any deficit in the Scheme and the
expenses associated with administering the Scheme, as determined by regular actuarial valuations.
The Trustee is required to use prudent assumptions to value the liabilities and costs of the Scheme whereas the accounting assumptions must
be best estimates.
The Scheme poses a number of risks to the Company, for example longevity risk, investment risk, interest rate risk and inflation risk. The Trustee
is aware of these risks and uses various techniques to control them. The Trustee has a number of internal control policies including a risk
register which are in place to manage and monitor the various risks they face. The Trustee's investment strategy incorporates the use of liability
driven investments ("LDIs") to minimise sensitivity of the actuarial funding position to movements in interest rates and inflation rates.
The Scheme is subject to regular actuarial valuations, which are carried out at intervals of no less than every 3 years. The next actuarial
valuation is expected to be carried out with an effective date of 5 April 2015. These actuarial valuations are carried out in accordance with the
requirements of the Pensions Act 2004 and include deliberate margins for prudence. This contrasts with these accounting disclosures which
are determined using best estimate assumptions.
An interim actuarial valuation was carried out as at 5 April 2014. The results of that valuation have been projected to 31 December 2014 by
a qualified independent actuary. The figures in the following disclosure were measured using the projected unit method.
The amounts recognised in the Consolidated Balance Sheet were as follows:
Present value of a Scheme liabilities
Fair value of Scheme assets
Net amount recognised at year end (before any adjustments for deferred tax)
2014
£’000
(309,067)
312,516
3,449
2013
£’000
(262,900)
258,553
(4,347)
2012
£'000
(246,573)
254,785
8,212
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
99
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continued
19 Employee benefits continued
The amounts recognised in Comprehensive Income were:
The current and past service costs, settlement and curtailments, together with the net interest expense for the year are included in the
employee benefits expense in the Statement of Comprehensive Income. Re-measurements of the net defined benefit surplus / (liability)
are included in Other Comprehensive Income.
Service cost:
Net interest expense / (credit) recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement
48
(576)
2014
£’000
2013
£'000
Remeasurements of the net liability:
Difference between actual and expected investment return
Loss arising from changes in financial assumptions
Loss arising from changes in demographic assumptions
Experience gain
(Credit) / charge recorded in Other Comprehensive Income
The principal actuarial assumptions used were:
Liability discount rate
Inflation assumption – RPI
Inflation assumption – CPI
Rate of increase in salaries
Revaluation of deferred pensions
Increases for pensions in payment:
CPI pension increases (maximum 5% pa)
CPI pension increases (maximum 5% pa, minimum 3% pa)
CPI pension increases (maximum 3% pa)
Mortality assumption – before retirement
Mortality assumption – after retirement (males)
Loading
Projection basis
Mortality assumption – after retirement (females)
Loading
Projection basis
Future expected lifetime of current pensioner at age 65:
Male aged 65 at year end
Female age 65 at year end
Future expected lifetime of future pensioner at age 65:
Male aged 45 at year end
Female age 45 at year end
100
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
(46,766)
44,242
–
(720)
(3,244)
(3,196)
2014
£’000
3.60%
3.10%
2.10%
n/a
2.10%
2.10%
3.10%
2.00%
5,108
13,437
987
(797)
18,735
18,159
2013
£'000
4.60%
3.40%
2.40%
n/a
2.40%
2.40%
3.20%
2.20%
Same as post
retirement
Same as post
retirement
S1PMA tables
S1PMA tables
105%
105%
Year of birth
Year of birth
CMI_2012 1.0% CMI_2012 1.0%
S1PFA tables
S1PFA tables
105%
105%
Year of birth
Year of birth
CMI_2012 1.0% CMI_2012 1.0%
21.9
24.2
23.3
25.7
21.9
24.1
23.2
25.6
Financial Statements
19 Employee benefits continued
Changes in the present value of assets over the period:
Fair value of assets at start of period
Interest income
Return on assets (excluding amount included in net interest expense)
Contributions from the employer
Benefits paid
Fair value of assets at end of period
Actual return on assets over the period
Changes in the present value of liabilities over the period:
Liabilities at start of period
Interest cost
Remeasurement (gains) / losses:
Actuarial losses arising from changes in financial assumptions
Actuarial losses arising from changes in demographic assumptions
Other experience gains
Benefits paid
Liabilities at end of period
The split of the Scheme's liabilities by category of membership is as follows:
Deferred pensioners
Pensioners in payment
Average duration of the Scheme's liabilities at the end of the period (years)
The major categories of Scheme assets are as follows:
Return seeking assets
UK equities
Overseas equities
Other equity type investments
Total return seeking assets
Debt instruments
Insured pensioners
Cash
Liability driven investments
Total matching assets
Total market value of assets
2014
£’000
2013
£'000
258,553
254,785
11,833
46,766
4,600
(9,236)
312,516
58,599
2014
£’000
262,900
11,881
44,242
–
(720)
(9,236)
11,961
(5,108)
5,600
(8,685)
258,553
6,853
2013
£'000
246,573
11,385
13,437
987
(797)
(8,685)
309,067
262,900
2014
£’000
161,195
147,872
309,067
18
2014
£’000
35,997
14,534
39,729
90,260
1,396
2,443
218,417
222,256
312,516
2013
£'000
133,817
129,083
262,900
19
2013
£'000
40,428
13,836
38,200
92,464
1,295
2,564
162,230
166,089
258,553
The Scheme has no investments in the Company or in property occupied by the Company.
Under the recovery plan in place as at 31 December 2014, the Company has agreed to contribute £4,600,000 to the Scheme during the year
ending 31 March 2015.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
101
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continued
19 Employee benefits continued
Sensitivity of the liability value to changes in the principal assumptions
If the discount rate was 0.1 per cent higher (lower), the Scheme liabilities would decrease by approximately £5.4 million (increase by £5.5 million)
if all the other assumptions remained unchanged.
If the inflation assumption was 0.1 per cent higher (lower), the Scheme liabilities would increase by £2.0 million (decrease by £2.1 million).
In this calculation all assumptions related to the inflation assumption have been appropriately adjusted, including the deferred pension and
pension in payment increases. The other assumptions remain unchanged.
If life expectancies were to increase (decrease) by 1 year, the Scheme liabilities would increase by £10.8 million (decrease by £11.6 million) if all
the other assumptions remained unchanged.
Share-based payments
Marshalls plc 2005 Long Term Incentive Plan (the "LTIP")
Share-based payment awards have been made during the year in accordance with the rules of the LTIP. The LTIP rules provide for the award of
Matching Shares and Performance Shares subject, in the case of Matching Shares, to participants investing a stated percentage of their annual
bonus in the LTIP. There are no Matching Share awards outstanding under the LTIP. Performance Shares may be awarded to participants
without requiring a qualifying investment.
Performance Shares are subject to the achievement of a 3 year performance target. The awards lapse if the performance target is not met over the
3 year vesting period. Matching Share awards are dependent on an improvement in reported earnings per share, whilst Performance Share awards
are dependent on an improvement in reported earnings per share and operating cash flow, each measured using IFRSs. The Remuneration
Committee may exercise its discretion with regard to the effect of one off items. Full details of the performance criteria are set out in the
Remuneration Report on pages 40 to 50.
The Performance Shares take the form of options which are settled by physical delivery of shares. The exercise price is £nil in relation to
any of these grants and there is no entitlement to dividends during the vesting period. There are no market conditions associated with
these instruments.
Number of
instruments
Date of
grant
243,412
10 September 2013
222,124
115,676
456,576
425,886
267,710
794,044
755,057
439,955
50,073
Weighted average
share price at
date of grant
(pence per share)
2014
116
182
113
112
137
Number of
options
2014
5,570,167
1,149,818
(1,249,946)
(1,699,526)
3,770,513
1 April 2014
2 October 2014
20 March 2012
17 April 2013
1 April 2014
20 March 2012
17 April 2013
1 April 2014
29 April 2014
Weighted average
share price at
date of grant
(pence per share)
2013
108
134
107
–
116
Vesting
period
3 years
3 years
3 years
3 years
3 years
3 years
3 years
3 years
3 years
3 years
Number of
options
2013
3,951,999
1,702,299
(84,131)
–
5,570,167
Equity settled awards granted to Directors of Marshalls plc
Equity settled awards granted to former Directors of Marshalls plc
Equity settled awards granted to other employees
Outstanding at 1 January
Granted
Lapsed
Exercised
Outstanding at 31 December
None of the options were exercisable at 31 December 2014.
102
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements 19 Employee benefits continued
Share-based payments continued
Marshalls plc 2005 Long Term Incentive Plan (the "LTIP") continued
The fair value of services received in return for shares granted is measured by reference to the fair value of these awards at the date of grant.
The estimate of the fair value of the services received is measured based on a Black-Scholes valuation model.
Fair value at grant date (pence per share)
Share price on date of grant (pence per share)
181
199
160
176
166
180
60
173
106
127
84
101
2 October
2014 grant
29 April
2014 grant
1 April 10 September
2013 grant
2014 grant
17 April
2013 grant
20 March
2012 grant
Expected volatility used in the modelling under the Black-Scholes
valuation model
Dividend yield
Risk-free interest rate (based on national Government bonds)
The Company's share price at 31 December 2014 was 234p.
65.0%
65.0%
65.0%
65.0%
65.0%
65.0%
3.0%
2.0%
3.0%
2.0%
3.0%
2.0%
3.0%
2.0%
4.0%
2.0%
6.0%
2.0%
The expected volatility is wholly based on the historic volatility (since the Scheme of Arrangement in July 2004), adjusted for any expected
changes to future volatility due to publicly available information.
The total expenses recognised for the period arising from share-based payments are as follows:
Awards granted and total expense recognised as employee costs
2014
£’000
1,551
2013
£'000
716
Performance Incentive Plan ("PIP")
Share-based payment awards have vested during the year in accordance with the rules of the PIP. Full details of the performance criteria and
the basis of operation of the PIP are set out in the Remuneration Report on page 46 to 61.
Equity settled awards are settled by physical delivery of shares. The following equity settled awards have been granted.
Equity settled awards granted to Directors of Marshalls plc
Equity settled awards granted to former Directors of
Marshalls plc
Equity settled awards granted to other employees
Number of
instruments
44,997
927,365
374,762
319,861
466,179
233,609
215,388
£'000
Date of grant
Vesting period
79
31 December 2013
2 years
839
365
564
422
228
380
31 December 2011
31 December 2012
31 December 2013
31 December 2011
31 December 2012
31 December 2013
2,582,161
2,877
Analysis of closing balance (deferred into shares):
Equity settled awards granted to Directors of Marshalls plc
Equity settled awards granted to former Directors of Marshalls plc
Equity settled awards granted to other employees
£’000
108
979
1,071
2,158
4 years
3 years
2 years
4 years
3 years
2 years
Shares
46,055
418,488
457,738
922,281
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
103
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continued
19 Employee benefits continued
Share-based payments continued
Performance Incentive Plan ("PIP") continued
Outstanding at 1 January
Granted
Change in value of notional shares
Element released
Outstanding at 31 December
Value
£'000
1,588
–
570
–
Number of
options
2014
901,101
–
21,180
–
2,158
922,281
The total expenses recognised for the period arising from share-based payments were as follows:
Awards granted and total expense recognised as employee costs
Further details in relation to the Directors are set out in the Remuneration Report on pages 46 to 61.
Value
£'000
1,403
1,023
1,209
(2,047)
1,588
2014
£’000
523
Number of
options
2013
1,439,243
580,246
–
(1,118,388)
901,101
2013
£'000
942
Management Incentive Plan ("MIP")
Share-based payment awards have been made during the year in accordance with the rules of the MIP. Full details of the performance criteria
and the basis of operation of the MIP are set out in the Remuneration Report on page 46 to 61.
Equity settled awards are settled by physical delivery of shares. The following equity settled awards have been granted:
Equity settled awards granted to Directors of Marshalls plc
Equity settled awards granted to former Directors of Marshalls plc
Equity settled awards granted to other employees
Analysis of closing balance (deferred into shares):
Equity settled awards granted to Directors of Marshalls plc
Equity settled awards granted to former Directors of Marshalls plc
Equity settled awards granted to other employees
Number of
instruments
413,162
358,195
657,699
Date of grant
Vesting period
£’000
967
838
11 April 2014
11 April 2014
1,539
11 April 2014
1,429,056
3,344
£’000
967
838
1,539
3,344
4 years
4 years
4 years
Shares
413,162
358,195
657,699
1,429,056
Value
£’000
Number of options
2014
Value
£’000
Number of options
2013
Outstanding at 1 January
Granted
Change in value of notional shares
Element released
Outstanding at 31 December
–
–
3,344
1,429,056
–
–
–
–
3,344
1,429,056
The total expenses recognised for the period arising from share-based payments were as follows:
Awards granted and total expense recognised as employee costs
Further details in relation to the Directors are set out in the Remuneration Report on pages 46 to 61.
Employee profit sharing scheme
At 31 December 2014 the scheme held 42,370 (2013: 42,370) ordinary shares in the Company.
–
–
–
–
–
2014
£'000
2,471
–
–
–
–
–
2013
£'000
–
104
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements
20 Deferred taxation
Recognised deferred taxation assets and liabilities
Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Inventories
Employee benefits
Equity settled share-based expenses
Other items
Tax assets / (liabilities)
Assets
2014
£’000
–
–
–
–
1,394
–
1,394
2013
£’000
–
–
–
869
757
–
Liabilities
2014
£’000
2013
£’000
(12,934)
(13,206)
(315)
(450)
(690)
–
(577)
(335)
(500)
–
–
(1,189)
(15,230)
1,626
(14,966)
The 2014 Budget on 19 March 2014 announced that the UK corporation tax rate will reduce to 20 per cent by 2015. Reductions in the rate
to 21 per cent (effective April 2014) and 20 per cent (effective April 2015) were substantially enacted, following the receipt of Royal Assent,
in July 2014. This will reduce the Group's future current tax charge accordingly. The deferred taxation liability at 31 December 2014 has been
calculated based on the rate of 20 per cent substantively enacted at the balance sheet date.
The deferred taxation liability of £690,000 (2013: £869,000 asset) in relation to employee benefits is in respect of the net surplus for the defined
benefit obligations of £3,449,000 (2013: £4,347,000 net deficit) (Note 19) calculated at 20 per cent (2013: 20 per cent).
Deferred tax assets on capital losses have not been recognised due to uncertainty around the future use of the losses.
Movement in temporary differences
Year ended 31 December 2014
Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Inventories
Employee benefits
Equity settled share-based expenses
Impact on other comprehensive income of the change
in rate of deferred tax
Other items
1 January
2014
£'000
(13,206)
(335)
(500)
869
757
367
(1,556)
(13,604)
Recognised
in income
£'000
Recognised
in other
comprehensive
income
£'000
272
20
50
(910)
177
–
29
(362)
–
–
–
(649)
460
–
583
394
31 December
2014
£'000
(12,934)
(315)
(450)
(690)
1,394
367
(944)
(13,572)
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
105
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continued
20 Deferred taxation continued
Movement in temporary differences continued
Year ended 31 December 2013
Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Inventories
Employee benefits
Equity settled share-based expenses
Impact on other comprehensive income of the change
in rate of deferred tax
Other items
21 Capital and reserves
Called-up share capital
At 1 January and at 31 December
Number of 25 pence ordinary shares
1 January
2013
£'000
(15,631)
(390)
(776)
(1,890)
–
92
(1,463)
(20,058)
Recognised
in income
£'000
Recognised
in other
comprehensive
income
£'000
2,425
55
276
(988)
581
–
193
2,542
–
–
–
3,747
176
275
(286)
3,912
31 December
2013
£'000
(13,206)
(335)
(500)
869
757
367
(1,556)
(13,604)
Issued and paid up
2014
£’000
49,845
2013
£'000
49,845
199,378,755
199,378,755
Consolidation reserve
On 8 July 2004 Marshalls plc was introduced as the new holding company of the Group by way of a Court approved Scheme of Arrangement
under Section 425 of the Companies Act 1985. The restructuring was accounted for as a capital reorganisation and accounting principles were
applied as if the Company had always been the holding company of the Group. The difference between the aggregate nominal value of the
new shares issued by the Company and the called up share capital, capital redemption reserve and share premium account of Marshalls Group
plc (the previous holding company) was transferred to a consolidation reserve.
Hedging reserve
This represents the gains and losses arising on derivatives used for cash flow hedging, principally from the Group's interest rate swaps, energy
price contracts and forward exchange contracts.
Dividends
After the balance sheet date the following dividends were proposed by the Directors. The dividends have not been provided and there were
no income tax consequences.
4.00 pence (2013: 3.50 pence) per ordinary share
22 Non-controlling interests
Non-controlling interests
At 1 January
Share of result for the period
Foreign currency transaction differences
At 31 December
106
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
2014
£’000
7,975
2014
£’000
3,295
(1,634)
(186)
1,475
2013
£'000
6,861
2013
£'000
3,884
(634)
45
3,295
Financial Statements 23 Analysis of net debt
Cash at bank and in hand
Debt due within one year
Debt due after one year
Finance leases
Reconciliation of net cash flow to movement in net debt
Net increase in cash equivalents
Cash outflow from decrease in debt and lease financing
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations
Movement in net debt in the period
Net debt at 1 January
Net debt at 31 December
1 January
2014
£'000
17,652
(3,370)
(49,627)
(224)
(35,569)
Cash flow
£'000
2,711
3,370
(1,536)
(282)
4,263
Other
changes
£'000
31 December
2014
£'000
(43)
–
856
13
826
2014
£’000
2,711
1,552
826
5,089
(35,569)
(30,480)
20,320
–
(50,307)
(493)
(30,480)
2013
£'000
6,534
21,568
(128)
27,974
(63,543)
(35,569)
24 Operating leases
The Group had non-cancellable minimum lease payments to be paid in respect of operating leases on property, plant, machinery and vehicles
as follows:
31 December 2014
Expiring:
within one year
between one and five years
in more than five years
31 December 2013
Expiring:
within one year
between one and five years
in more than five years
Total
£'000
6 months
or less
£'000
6 – 12
months
£'000
1 – 2 years
£'000
2 – 5 years
£’000
More than
5 years
£'000
749
20,252
48,806
564
3,147
2,221
185
3,129
2,209
–
5,647
4,429
–
8,329
–
–
12,887
27,060
69,807
5,932
5,523
10,076
21,216
27,060
Total
£'000
6 months
or less
£'000
6 – 12
months
£'000
1 – 2 years
£'000
2 – 5 years
£’000
More than
5 years
£'000
1,025
20,477
31,430
52,932
799
2,918
788
4,505
226
2,902
784
3,912
–
5,213
1,573
6,786
–
9,444
4,873
14,317
–
–
23,412
23,412
The minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases (above) comprise property £29,134,000 (2013: £30,069,000) and plant,
machinery and vehicles £40,673,000 (2013: £22,863,000).
Certain leased properties have been sublet by the Group. Sublease payments of £89,913 (2013: £106,371) are expected to be received during
the following financial year. An amount of £121,014 (2013: £118,720) was recognised as income in the Consolidated Income Statement within
net operating costs in respect of subleases.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
107
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements continued
25 Contingencies
Royal Bank of Scotland plc has issued, on behalf of Marshalls plc, the following irrevocable letters of credit relating to the Group’s cap on self
insurance for employer's liability and vehicle insurance:
Beneficiary
XL Winterthur
Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance (London Management) Limited
Aviva Insurance Limited
26 Related parties
Identity of related parties
The Group has a related party relationship with its Directors.
Amount
Period
Purpose
£300,000
£1,610,000
£350,000
19 Dec 2003 to 31 Oct 2015
Employer's liability
23 Dec 2011 to 31 Oct 2015
Employer's liability
19 Mar 2014 to 31 Oct 2015
Vehicle insurance
Transactions with key management personnel
Other than the Directors, there are no senior managers in the Group who are relevant for establishing that Marshalls has the appropriate
expertise and experience for the management of its business.
Directors of the Company and their immediate relatives control 0.0003 per cent (2013: 0.24 per cent) of the voting shares of the Company.
In addition to their salaries and pension allowances, the Group also provides non-cash benefits to Directors. Further details in relation to Directors
are disclosed in the Remuneration Report on pages 46 to 61.
27 Accounting estimates and judgements
Management discussed with the Audit Committee the development, selection and disclosure of the Group’s critical accounting policies and
estimates and the application of these policies and estimates. The accounting policies are set out in Note 1 on pages 76 to 83.
Note 13 contains details of the Group's inventory. The carrying value of the Group's finished goods inventory has been reviewed using
commercial judgement with regard to the assessment of the appropriate level of provisioning against inventory obsolescence.
Note 2 contains information about the assumptions and judgements made relating to the identification of operating segments for the Group
as defined in IFRS 8 "Operating Segments".
In relation to the Group’s intangible fixed assets (Note 11) impairment tests have been undertaken using commercial judgement and a number
of assumptions and estimates in relation to relevant trading volumes and margins. These estimates have been determined using the best
available information derived from a combination of business specific analysis (both current and historic) and the latest available external
industry forecasts. Determining whether goodwill is impaired requires an estimation of the value in use of the CGUs to which goodwill has
been allocated. The value in use calculation involves an estimation of the future cash flows of CGUs and also the selection of appropriate
discount rates in order to calculate present values.
Note 19 contains information about the principal actuarial assumptions used in the determination of defined benefit pension obligations.
These key assumptions include discount rates, the expected return on net assets, inflation rates and mortality rates and have been determined
following advice received from an independent qualified actuary. Sensitivity analysis is disclosed in Note 19 on page 99.
Note 20 contains details of the Group's deferred taxation. Liabilities recognised are determined by reference to the likelihood of settlement
and the likelihood that assets are received is based on assumptions of future actions.
108
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements Parent Company Statement of Comprehensive Income
for the year ended 31 December 2014
Loss for the financial year
Other comprehensive income
Items that will not be reclassified to the Income Statement
Deferred tax on share-based payments
Total items that will not be reclassified to the Income Statement
Other comprehensive income for the period, net of income tax
Total comprehensive expense for the period
* Restated for adoption of FRS 101 as explained in note 41.
2014
£’000
(4,908)
95
95
95
Restated*
2013
£'000
(4,373)
301
301
301
(4,813)
(4,072)
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
109
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information
Parent Company Statement of Changes in Equity
for the year ended 31 December 2014
Current year
At 1 January 2014 (restated)
Loss for the financial year
Other comprehensive income
Deferred tax on share-based payments
Total other comprehensive income
Total comprehensive expense for the period
Transactions with owners, recorded directly
in equity
Contributions by and distributions to owners
Share-based expenses
Dividends to equity shareholders
Purchase of own shares
Disposal of own shares
Total contributions by and distributions
to owners
Total transactions with owners of the Company
Share
capital
£'000
Share
premium
account
£'000
Own
shares
£'000
Capital
redemption
reserve
£'000
Equity
reserve
£'000
Retained
earnings
£’000
Total
equity
£'000
49,845
22,695
(9,512)
75,394
1,595
187,803
327,820
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
(4,266)
7,089
2,823
2,823
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
(4,908)
(4,908)
95
95
95
–
–
95
95
(4,908)
(4,813)
1,075
1,421
2,496
–
–
–
(10,791)
(10,791)
–
(4,266)
(7,089)
–
1,075
(16,459)
(12,561)
1,170
(21,367)
(17,374)
At 31 December 2014
49,845
22,695
(6,689)
75,394
2,765
166,436
310,446
110
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements Parent Company Statement of Changes in Equity continued
for the year ended 31 December 2014
Prior year
At 1 January 2013
Loss for the financial year
Other comprehensive income
Deferred tax on share-based payments
Total other comprehensive income
Total comprehensive income / (expense)
for the period
Transactions with owners, recorded directly
in equity
Contributions by and distributions to owners
Share-based expenses
Dividends to equity shareholders
Disposal of own shares
Total contributions by and distributions
to owners
Total transactions with owners of the Company
Share
capital
£'000
Share
premium
account
£'000
Own
shares
£'000
Capital
redemption
reserve
£'000
Equity
reserve
£'000
Retained
earnings
£’000
Total
equity
£'000
49,845
22,695
(9,571)
75,394
388
200,529
339,280
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
59
59
59
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
(4,373)
(4,373)
301
301
–
–
301
301
301
(4,373)
(4,072)
906
1,998
2,904
–
–
(10,292)
(10,292)
(59)
–
906
(8,353)
(7,388)
1,207
(12,726)
(11,460)
At 31 December 2013 (restated)*
49,845
22,695
(9,512)
75,394
1,595
187,803
327,820
* Restated for adoption of FRS 101 as explained in note 41.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
111
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information
31
32
33
34
35
Notes
2014
£'000
340,953
806
341,759
Restated*
2013
£’000
339,634
1,089
340,723
1,343
958
(32,656)
(31,313)
310,446
49,845
22,695
(6,689)
75,394
2,765
166,436
310,446
(13,861)
(12,903)
327,820
49,845
22,695
(9,512)
75,394
1,595
187,803
327,820
2012
£’000
338,728
–
338,728
898
(346)
552
339,280
49,845
22,695
(9,571)
75,394
388
200,529
339,280
Company Balance Sheet
at 31 December 2014
Fixed assets
Investments
Deferred taxation assets
Current assets
Debtors
Current liabilities
Creditors
Net current (liabilities) / assets
Net assets
Capital and reserves
Called-up share capital
Share premium account
Own shares
Capital redemption reserve
Equity reserve
Profit and loss account
Equity shareholders’ funds
* Restated for adoption of FRS 101 as explained in Note 41.
Approved at a Directors’ meeting on 6 March 2015.
On behalf of the Board:
M. Coffey
Chief Executive
J.J. Clarke
Finance Director
The Notes on pages 113 to 118 form part of these Company Financial Statements.
112
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements
Notes to the Company Financial Statements
28 Accounting policies
The following paragraphs summarise the main accounting policies of the Company, which have been applied consistently in dealing with
items which are considered material in relation to the Company’s Financial Statements. The Company is exempt from the requirement to give
its own disclosures as the entity forms part of the Consolidated Financial Statements of Marshalls plc which has included disclosures under IFRS
7 – "Financial Instruments: Disclosures".
(a) Authorisation of Financial Statements and Statement of Compliance with FRS 101
The Parent Company Financial Statements of Marshalls plc for the year ended 31 December 2014 were authorised for issue by the Board of
Directors on 6 March 2014. Marshalls plc is a public limited company that is incorporated, domiciled and has its registered office in England
and Wales. The Company’s ordinary shares are publicly traded on the London Stock Exchange and the Company is not under the control of
any single shareholder.
These Financial Statements were prepared in accordance with Financial Reporting Standard 101 "Reduced Disclosure Framework ("FRS101").
No profit or loss is presented by the Company as permitted by Section 408 of the Companies Act 2006.
(b) Basis of preparation
The Company has transitioned to FRS 101 from the UK Generally Accepted Accounting Practice for all periods presented. The Company has
adopted FRS 101 early which is permitted under the standard. Transition tables showing all material adjustments are disclosed in Note 41.
The accounting policies which follow set out those policies which apply in preparing the Financial Statements for the year ended
31 December 2014.
In these Financial Statements, the Company has applied the exemptions available under FRS 101 in respect of the following disclosures:
— the requirements of paragraph 45(b) and 46-52 of IFRS 2 "Share-based Payments";
— the requirement of IFRS 7 "Financial Instruments: Disclosures";
— the requirement of paragraphs 91-99 of IFRS 13 "Fair Value Measurement";
— the requirement in paragraph 38 of IAS 1 "Presentation of Financial Statements to present comparative information in respect of:
Paragraph 79(a)(iv) of IAS 1";
— the requirements of paragraphs 10(d), 10(f ), 16, 39(c), 40A, 40B, 40C, 40D, 111 and 134-136 of IAS 1 "Presentation of Financial Statements";
— the requirements of IAS 7 "Statement of Cashflows";
— the requirements of paragraphs 30 and 31 of IAS 8 "Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors";
— the requirements of paragraph 17 of IAS 24 "Related Party Disclosures";
— the requirements in IAS 24 "Related Party Disclosures" to disclose related party transactions entered into between two or more members
of a group, provided that any subsidiary which is a party to the transaction is wholly owned by such a member; and
— the requirements of paragraphs 134(d)-134(f ) and 135(c)-135(e) of IAS 36 "Impairment of Assets".
(c) Investments
Fixed asset investments in subsidiaries and associates are shown at cost less provision for impairment. The Directors consider annually whether
a provision against the value of investments on an individual basis is required.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
113
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information
Notes to the Company Financial Statements continued
28 Accounting policies continued
(d) Share capital
(i) Share capital
Share capital is classified as equity if it is non-redeemable and any dividends are discretionary, or is redeemable but only at the Company’s
option. Dividends on share capital classified as equity are recognised as distributions within equity. Non-equity share capital is classified as
a liability if it is redeemable on a specific date or at the option of the shareholders or if dividend payments are not discretionary. Dividends
thereon are recognised in the Income Statement as a financial expense.
(ii) Dividends
Dividends on non-equity shares are recognised as a liability and accounted for on an accruals basis. Equity dividends are recognised
as a liability in the period in which they are declared (appropriately authorised and no longer at the discretion of the Company).
(e) Pension schemes
(i) Defined benefit scheme
The Company participates in a Group-wide pension scheme providing benefits based on final pensionable pay. The defined benefit section
of the Scheme was closed to future service accrual in July 2006.
The assets of the Scheme are held separately from those of the Company. The defined benefit cost and contributions payable are borne by
Marshalls Group Limited and, therefore, the defined benefit surplus or deficit is recorded in Marshalls Group Limited. Full details are provided
in note 19 on pages 99 to 102.
(ii) Defined contribution scheme
Obligations for contributions to defined contribution schemes are recognised as an expense as incurred.
(f) Share-based payment transactions
The Company enters into equity settled share-based payment transactions with its employees. In particular, annual awards are made to
employees under the Company's incentive schemes which include the Management Incentive Plan ("MIP") and, in previous years, the
Performance Incentive Plan ("PIP") and the Long Term Incentive Plan ("LTIP").
These schemes allow employees to acquire shares in Marshalls plc. The fair value of options granted is recognised as an employee expense
with a corresponding increase in equity. The fair value is measured at grant date and spread over the period during which the employees
become unconditionally entitled to the options. Where appropriate, the fair value of the options granted is measured using the Black-Scholes
option valuation model, taking into account the terms and conditions upon which the options were granted. The amount recognised as an
expense is adjusted to reflect the actual number of awards for which the related service and non-market vesting conditions are expected to
be met, such that the amount ultimately recognised as an expense is based on the number of awards that do meet the related service and
non-market performance conditions at the vesting date.
Current tax relief is available as shares vest based on the value at the date of vesting. A deferred tax asset is recognised at grant date based on
the number of shares expected to be issued, at the value at which they are expected to be issued, proportioned in line with the vesting period.
(g) Own shares held by the Employee Benefit Trust
Transactions of the Company-sponsored Employee Benefit Trust are included in the Group Financial Statements. In particular, the Trust’s
purchases of shares in the Company are debited directly to equity.
(h) Trade and other payables
Trade and other payables are stated at nominal amount (discounted if material).
114
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements 28 Accounting policies continued
(i) Income tax
Income tax on the profit or loss for the year comprises current and deferred taxation. Income tax is recognised in the Income Statement except
to the extent that it relates to items recognised directly in equity, in which case it is recognised in equity.
Current tax is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the year, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the balance
sheet date, and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous years.
Deferred taxation is provided using the balance sheet liability method, providing for temporary differences between the carrying amounts of
assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for taxation purposes. The following temporary differences are not
provided for: the initial recognition of goodwill, the initial recognition of assets or liabilities that affect neither accounting nor taxable profit,
other than in a business combination, and differences relating to investments in subsidiaries to the extent that they will probably not reverse in
the foreseeable future. The amount of deferred taxation provided is based on the expected manner of realisation or settlement of the carrying
amount of assets and liabilities, using tax rates that are expected to apply when the temporary difference reverses, based on rates that have
been enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date.
A deferred taxation asset is recognised only to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which the asset
can be utilised. Deferred taxation assets are reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that the related tax benefit will be realised.
Additional income taxes that arise from the distribution of dividends are recognised at the same time as the liability to pay the related dividend.
29 Operating costs
The audit fee for the Company was £20,000 (2013: £20,000). This is in respect of the audit of the Financial Statements. Fees paid to the
Company's auditor for services other than the statutory audit of the Company are not disclosed in the notes to the Company Financial
Statements since the consolidated accounts of the Group are required to disclose non-audit fees on a consolidated basis.
Details of Directors' remuneration, share options, long term incentive plans and Directors' pension entitlements are disclosed on pages 51 to 61
of the Annual Remuneration Report.
30 Ordinary dividends: equity shares
2013 Final: paid 4 July 2014
2014 Interim: paid 5 December 2014
2014
2013
pence per share
£’000
pence per share
3.50p
2.00p
5.50p
6,867
3,924
10,791
3.50p
1.75p
5.25p
£’000
6,861
3,431
10,292
After the balance sheet date the following dividends were proposed by the Directors. The dividends have not been provided and there were
no income tax consequences.
4.00 pence (2013: 3.50 pence) per ordinary share
31 Investments
At 1 January 2014
Additions
At 31 December 2014
2014
£’000
7,975
2013
£'000
6,861
£'000
339,634
1,319
340,953
Investments comprise shares in the subsidiary undertaking, Marshalls Group Limited. The Directors have considered the carrying value of the
Company's investments and are satisfied that no provision is required.
The increase in the year of £1,319,000 represents adjustments to the number of shares expected to vest in respect of share-based payment
awards granted to employees of Marshalls Group Limited.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
115
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Notes to the Company Financial Statements continued
31 Investments continued
Pursuant to Sections 409 and 410(2) of the Companies Act 2006, the principal subsidiary undertakings of Marshalls plc at 31 December 2014
are set out below. With the exception of Marshalls NV, Xiamen Marshalls Import Export Company Limited and Marshalls Landscape Products
(North America) Inc. all the companies operate within the United Kingdom and are registered in England and Wales. Marshalls NV is registered
in Belgium. Xiamen Marshalls Import Export Company Limited is registered in China and Marshalls Landscape Products (North America) Inc. is
registered in the USA.
Subsidiaries
Principal activities
Class of share
% ownership
Marshalls Group Limited
Intermediate holding company
Marshalls Mono Limited*
Landscape products manufacturer and supplier and
quarry owner supplying a wide variety of paving,
street furniture and natural stone products
Marshalls NV*
Landscape products manufacturer and supplier
Xiamen Marshalls Import Export
Company Limited*
Marshalls Landscape Products
(North America) Inc.*
* held by subsidiary undertaking.
Sourcing and distribution of natural stone products
Landscape products supplier
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Marshalls NV is largely dependent on the continued support of Marshalls Mono Limited which has indicated that it intends to continue
providing this support for the foreseeable future.
32 Deferred taxation
Recognised deferred taxation assets and liabilities
Assets
Equity settled share-based
expense
2014
£’000
806
Restated*
2013
£’000
1,089
2012
£’000
–
Liabilities
Restated*
2013
£’000
–
2014
£’000
–
100
100
66.7
100
100
2012
£’000
–
Restated*
1 January
2014
£'000
Recognised
in income
£'000
Recognised
in other
comprehensive
income
£'000
31 December
2014
£'000
1,089
(378)
95
806
2014
£’000
1,343
2014
£’000
32,656
2013
£'000
958
2013
£'000
13,861
* Restated for adoption of FRS 101 as explained in note 41.
Movement in temporary differences
Year ended 31 December 2014
Equity settled share-based expense
* Restated for adoption of FRS 101 as explained in note 41.
33 Debtors
Corporation tax
No debtors were due after more than one year.
34 Creditors
Amounts owed to subsidiary undertakings
116
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements 35 Capital and reserves
Called-up share capital
As at 31 December 2014, the issued and fully paid-up share capital was as follows:
Issued and paid up
2014
Number
2014 nominal
value
£'000
2013
Number
2013 nominal
value
£'000
At 31 December
199,378,755
49,845
199,378,755
49,845
Equity reserve
The equity reserve represents the number of shares expected to vest in respect of share-based payment awards granted to employees of the Company.
36 Capital and leasing commitments
The Company had no capital or leasing commitments at 31 December 2014 or 31 December 2013.
37 Bank facilities
The Group's banking arrangements are in respect of Marshalls plc, Marshalls Group Limited and Marshalls Mono Limited with each company
being nominated borrowers. The operational banking activities of the Group are undertaken by Marshalls Group Limited and the Group's bank
debt is largely included in Marshalls Group Limited's balance sheet.
38 Contingent liabilities
Royal Bank of Scotland plc has issued, on behalf of Marshalls plc, the following irrevocable letters of credit relating to the Group’s cap on self
insurance for employer's liability and vehicle insurance.
Beneficiary
XL Winterthur
Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance (London Management) Limited
Aviva Insurance Limited
Amount
Period
Purpose
£300,000
£1,610,000
£350,000
19 Dec 2003 to 31 Oct 2015
Employer's liability
23 Dec 2011 to 31 Oct 2015
Employer's liability
19 Mar 2014 to 31 Oct 2015
Vehicle insurance
39 Pension scheme
The Company is the sponsoring employer of the Marshalls plc Pension Scheme (the "Scheme") which has both a defined benefit and a defined
contribution section. The assets of the Scheme are held in separately managed funds which are independent of the Group’s finances. As set
out in Note 19 the Group introduced a new defined contribution section to the Scheme to replace the existing defined benefit section which
closed to future service accrual on 1 July 2006.
Full details of the Scheme are provided in Note 19. The Company is unable to identify its share of the Scheme assets and liabilities on a
consistent and reasonable basis.
The latest funding valuation of the Scheme was carried out as at 6 April 2014 and was updated for the purposes of the 31 December 2014
Financial Statements by a qualified independent actuary. Certain employees are members of the Company defined contribution Scheme,
which invests funds in which the contributions for each individual member, are separately identifiable and the benefits calculated accordingly.
40 Accounting estimates and judgements
The preparation of the Financial Statements requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions. Although these
judgements and estimates are based on management’s best knowledge, actual results ultimately may differ from these estimates.
The key sources of estimation uncertainty that have a significant risk of causing material adjustments to the carrying value of assets and
liabilities within the next financial year are disclosed below.
Note 19 contains information about the principal actuarial assumptions used in the determination of defined benefit pension obligations.
These key assumptions include discount rates, the expected return on net assets, inflation rates and mortality rates and have been determined
following advice received from an independent qualified actuary. Sensitivity analysis is disclosed in Note 19 on page 102.
Note 32 contains details of the Company’s deferred taxation. Liabilities recognised are determined by reference to the likelihood of settlement
and the likelihood that assets are received is based on assumptions of future actions.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
117
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Notes to the Company Financial Statements continued
41 Transition to FRS 101
For all periods up to and including the year ended 31 December 2013 the Company prepared its Financial Statements in accordance with
United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice ("UK GAAP"). These Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2014
are the first the Company has prepared in accordance with FRS 101 "Reduced Disclosure Framework".
The table below shows the restated prior year comparative figures for the Parent Company balance sheet as at 1 January 2013 and
31 December 2013. The restatement reflects the retrospective adjustments required on first time adoption of FRS 101.
31 December 2013
Impact of
FRS 101
£’000
Restated
£’000
Reported
£’000
1 January 2013
Impact of
FRS 101
£’000
–
520
520
–
–
–
–
339,634
1,089
340,723
958
958
(13,861)
(12,903)
338,728
–
338,728
898
898
(346)
552
Reported
£’000
339,634
569
340,203
958
958
(13,861)
(12,903)
Fixed assets
Investments
Deferred taxation assets
Current assets
Debtors: amounts falling due
within one year
Creditors: amounts falling due
within one year
Net (liabilities) / current assets
Total assets less current
liabilities
Creditors: amounts falling due
after more than one year
Retirement benefit obligations
Provisions for liabilities other
327,300
520
327,820
339,280
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
Net assets
327,300
520
327,820
339,280
Capital and reserves
Called-up share capital
Share premium
Own shares
Capital redemption reserve
Equity reserve
Retained earnings
Total equity
49,845
22,695
(9,512)
75,394
1,463
187,415
327,300
–
–
–
–
132
388
520
49,845
22,695
(9,512)
75,394
1,595
187,803
327,820
49,845
22,695
(9,571)
75,394
388
200,529
339,280
Restated
£’000
338,728
–
338,728
898
898
(346)
552
339,280
–
–
–
339,280
49,845
22,695
(9,571)
75,394
388
200,529
339,280
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
Restatement from UK GAAP to FRS 101
Deferred tax asset and provision for liabilities
Deferred tax has been restated to take into account temporary differences at the balance sheet date between the tax base of assets and
liabilities for taxation purposes and their carrying amounts in the Financial Statements, rather than timing differences. On restatement,
temporary differences have been recognised in respect of equity settled share-based expenses.
42 Related parties
Related party relationships exist with other members of the Group. All operating costs are borne by Marshalls Group Limited and are re-charged
to Marshalls plc in respect of specifically attributable costs. All related party transactions were made on terms equivalent to those that prevail
in arm's length transactions.
118
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements Financial History – Consolidated Group
Consolidated Income Statement
Revenue
Net operating costs
Operating profit (before operational restructuring and
works closure costs, goodwill and intangible asset
impairments)
Operational restructuring and works closure costs,
goodwill and intangible asset impairments
Operating profit / (loss)
Financial income and expenses (net)
Profit before tax (before operational restructuring and
works closure costs, goodwill and intangible asset
impairments and redemption of debenture)
Profit / (loss) before tax
Income tax (expense) / credit
Profit / (loss) for the financial period before post tax
loss of discontinued operations
Post tax profit / (loss) of discontinued operations
Profit / (loss) for the financial period
Profit / (loss) for the period attributable to:
Equity shareholders of the parent
Non-controlling interests
EBITA
EBITDA
EBITA before operational restructuring and
works closure costs, goodwill and intangible
asset impairments
EBITDA before operational restructuring and
works closure costs, goodwill and intangible
asset impairments
Earnings per share (pence)
Basic: (continuing operations)
Basic: (total operations)
Basic continuing operations: (before operational
restructuring and works closure costs, goodwill and
intangible asset impairments and redemption
of debenture)
Dividends per share (pence) – IFRS
Dividend cover (times) – IFRS (continuing)
Dividends per share (pence) – traditional
Dividend cover (times) – traditional (continuing)
Year end share price (pence)
Tax rate (%)
Year to
December 2010**
£'000
Year to
December 2011*
£'000
Year to
December 2012**
£'000
Year to
December 2013*
£’000
Year to
December 2014
£’000
299,934
(288,962)
325,112
(310,117)
300,938
(288,087)
307,390
(291,300)
358,516
(333,211)
10,972
14,995
12,851
16,090
25,305
–
10,972
(2,563)
8,409
8,409
(1,638)
6,771
579
7,350
7,350
–
7,350
12,405
29,101
–
14,995
(3,007)
11,988
11,988
(1,071)
10,917
(3,661)
7,256
7,390
(134)
7,256
16,174
32,413
(21,521)
(8,670)
(3,578)
9,273
(12,248)
5,874
(6,374)
676
(5,698)
(5,684)
(14)
(5,698)
(7,423)
6,538
–
16,090
(3,064)
13,026
13,026
(67)
12,959
503
13,462
14,096
(634)
13,462
17,028
30,227
–
25,305
(2,884)
22,421
22,421
(4,198)
18,223
–
18,223
19,857
(1,634)
18,223
26,536
38,518
12,405
16,174
14,098**
17,028
26,536
29,101
32,413
28,059**
30,227
38,518
3.46
3.76
3.46
5.25
0.66
5.25
0.66
104.8
19.5
5.66
3.78
5.66
5.25
1.08
5.25
1.08
90.5
8.9
(3.26)
(2.91)
5.52**
5.25
1.12**
5.25
1.12**
97.5
(16.3)**
6.94
7.20
6.94
5.25
1.32
5.25
1.32
176.25
0.5
10.13
10.13
10.13
5.50
1.84
6.00
1.69
234.0
18.7
the comparatives have been restated in respect of discontinued operations.
*
** before operational restructuring and works closure costs, goodwill and intangible asset impairments and redemption of debenture.
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
119
Strategic ReportCorporate GovernanceFinancial StatementsShareholder Information Financial History – Consolidated Group continued
Consolidated Balance Sheet
Non-current assets
Current assets
Total assets
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Net assets
Net borrowings
Gearing ratio
2010
£'000
2011
£'000
2012
£'000
2013
£’000
2014
£’000
236,906
113,610
350,516
(94,616)
(57,660)
198,240
(66,841)
33.7%
249,271
128,640
377,911
(88,550)
(83,297)
206,064
(77,101)
37.4%
225,882
116,735
342,617
(64,440)
(94,603)
183,574
(63,543)
34.6%
198,082
120,832
318,914
(74,137)
(69,345)
175,432
(35,569)
20.3%
195,951
119,897
315,848
(68,273)
(65,681)
181,894
(30,480)
16.8%
120
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
Financial Statements Shareholder Information
Shareholder analysis at 31 December 2014
Size of shareholding
1 to 500
501 to 1,000
1,001 to 2,500
2,501 to 5,000
5,001 to 10,000
10,001 to 25,000
25,001 to 100,000
100,001 to 250,000
250,001 to 500,000
500,001 and above
Number of
shareholders
1,951
574
753
535
350
196
150
55
34
65
%
41.84
12.31
16.15
11.47
7.51
4.20
3.22
1.18
0.73
1.39
Number of
ordinary shares
289,353
433,067
1,283,802
1,906,051
2,494,224
3,103,880
7,407,112
8,663,814
13,144,824
160,652,628
4,663
100.0
199,378,755
%
0.14
0.22
0.64
0.95
1.25
1.56
3.72
4.35
6.59
80.58
100.0
Financial calendar
Preliminary Announcement of results for the year ended 31 December 2014
Annual General Meeting
Final dividend for the year ended 31 December 2014
Half-yearly results for the year ending 31 December 2015
Half-yearly dividend for the year ending 31 December 2015
Results for the year ending 31 December 2015
Announced
Payable
Announcement
Payable
Announcement
6 March 2015
20 May 2015
3 July 2015
27 August 2015
4 December 2015
Early March 2016
Advisers
Stockbrokers
Peel Hunt
Numis Securities Limited
Auditor
KPMG LLP
Legal advisers
Herbert Smith LLP
Eversheds LLP
Pinsent Masons LLP
Financial advisers
N M Rothschild & Sons Limited
Bankers
Royal Bank of Scotland plc
Lloyds TSB Bank plc
HSBC Bank plc
Barclays Bank plc
Registrars
Computershare Investor Services PLC
The Pavilions
Bridgwater Road
Bristol BS99 6ZZ
Shareholders’ enquiries should be addressed to the Registrars at the
above address (tel: 0870 707 1134).
Registered office
Landscape House
Premier Way,
Lowfields Business Park, Elland,
Halifax HX5 9HT
West Yorkshire
Telephone: 01422 306400
Website:
www.marshalls.co.uk
Registered in England and Wales: No. 5100353
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Marshalls plc
Marshalls plc
Annual Report and Accounts 2014
121
Strategic ReportCorporate Governance
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Marshalls plc, Landscape House,
Premier Way, Lowfields Business Park,
Elland HX5 9HT
The Group's commitment to environmental issues is reflected in this
Annual Report which has been printed on Symbol Freelife Satin which is
a mixed source FSC® certified and ECF (Elemental Chlorine Free) material.
This is a certified CarbonNeutral® publication. Printed in the UK by Park
Communications, using their environmental printing technology;
vegetable inks were used throughout. Both the manufacturing mill and the
printer are registered to the Environmental Management System ISO14001
and are Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC) chain-of-custody certified.
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