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FY2013 Annual Report · Marston's
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Marston’s PLC

2013Annual Report and Accounts

for the period ended 5 October 2013

 
 
 
 
 
 
Welcome to Marston’s. We offer something 
for everyone; a welcoming environment, 
great food, beer and real value for money.

Page 5. 
Business 
model

COntentS

Strategic Report
Financial Highlights 2013 
At a Glance 
Chairman’s Statement 
Our Business Model 
Market Overview 
Our Strategy 
Strategy in Action 
Group Overview 
Performance and Financial Review 
Corporate Social Responsibility 
Principal Risks and Uncertainties 

Governance
Directors 
Directors’ Report 
Corporate Governance Report 
Directors’ Remuneration Report 
Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities 

Financial Statements
Five Year Record 
Independent Auditors’ Report  
Group Accounts  
Notes to Group Accounts 
Independent Auditors’ Report 
Company Balance Sheet 
Notes to Company Accounts 
Information for Shareholders 
Picture Reference 

Page 8. 
Strategy

Page 15. 
Group 
Overview

1
2 – 3
4
5
6 – 7
8 – 9
10 – 14
15
16 – 17
18 – 23
24 – 25

26 – 27
28 – 29
30 – 37
38 – 53
54

55
56 – 58
59 – 62
63 – 96
97
98
99 – 105
106 – 107
108

financial highlighTs 2013

Revenue 

£782.9m 
Up 8.8%

2013
2012
2011
2010
2009

£782.9m

£719.7m

£682.2m

£650.7m
£645.1m

Underlying* 
operating profit 

£168.3m 
Up 6.6%

2013
2012
2011
2010
2009

£168.3m

£157.9m
£154.3m
£148.7m
£147.4m

Underlying* 
profit before tax

£88.4m 
Up 0.7%

2013
2012
2011
2010
2009

£88.4m
£87.8m

£80.4m

£73.5m
£70.3m

Underlying* 
earnings per share

12.3p
Unchanged from 2012 

2013
2012
2011
2010
2009

12.3p
12.3p

11.2p

10.0p

13.4p

Dividend per share

6.4p 

Up 4.9%

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

6.4p

6.1p

5.8p

5.8p

7.1p

Group Revenue Share %

45%

32%

7%

16%

Destination and Premium

Taverns

Leased

Brewing

Underlying* 
operating profit 

Underlying* 
operating profit 

£168.3m 
£168.3m 
Up 6.6%
Up 6.6%

Underlying* 
profit before tax

Underlying* 
profit before tax

£88.4m 
£88.4m 
Up 0.7%
Up 0.7%

Underlying* 
Underlying* 
earnings per share
earnings per share

12.3p
Unchanged from 2012 

12.3p
Unchanged from 2012 

Dividend per share

Dividend per share

6.4p 
6.4p 
Up 4.9%
Up 4.9%

Revenue 

Revenue 

£782.9m 
£782.9m 
Up 8.8%
Up 8.8%

2013
2012
2011
2010
2009

2013
2012
2011
2010
2009

£782.9m

£782.9m

£719.7m

£719.7m

£682.2m

£682.2m

£650.7m
£645.1m

£650.7m
£645.1m

2013
2012
2011
2010
2009

2013
2012
2011
2010
2009

£168.3m

£168.3m

£157.9m
£154.3m
£148.7m
£147.4m

£157.9m
£154.3m
£148.7m
£147.4m

2013
2012
2011
2010
2009

2013
2012
2011
2010
2009

£88.4m
£87.8m

£88.4m
£87.8m

£80.4m

£80.4m

£73.5m
£70.3m

£73.5m
£70.3m

2013
2012
2011
2010
2009

2013
2012
2011
2010
2009

12.3p
12.3p

12.3p
12.3p

11.2p

11.2p

10.0p

10.0p

13.4p

13.4p

2013
2012
2011
2010
2009

2013
2012
2011
2010
2009

6.4p

6.4p

6.1p

6.1p

5.8p

5.8p

5.8p

5.8p

7.1p

7.1p

Group Revenue Share %

Group Revenue Share %

45%

45%

32%

32%

7%

7%

16%

16%

Destination and Premium

Destination and Premium

Taverns

Taverns

Leased

Leased

Brewing

Brewing

Revenue 

Revenue 

£782.9m 

£782.9m 

Up 8.8%

Up 8.8%

2013

2013

2012

2012

2011

2011

2010

2010

2009

2009

£782.9m

£782.9m

£719.7m

£719.7m

£682.2m

£682.2m

£650.7m

£650.7m

£645.1m

£645.1m

Underlying* 

Underlying* 

operating profit 

operating profit 

£168.3m 

£168.3m 

Up 6.6%

Up 6.6%

2013

2013

2012

2012

2011

2011

2010

2010

2009

2009

£168.3m

£168.3m

£157.9m

£157.9m

£154.3m

£154.3m

£148.7m

£148.7m

£147.4m

£147.4m

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

2013
2012
2011
2010
2009

Underlying* 
profit before tax

Underlying* 
profit before tax

£88.4m 
£88.4m 
Up 0.7%
Up 0.7%

£80.4m

£73.5m
£70.3m

£73.5m
£70.3m

£88.4m
£87.8m

£88.4m
£87.8m

£80.4m

Underlying* 
earnings per share

Underlying* 
earnings per share

12.3p
Unchanged from 2012 

12.3p
Unchanged from 2012 

2013
2012
2011
2010
2009

2013
2012
2011
2010
2009

12.3p
12.3p

12.3p
12.3p

11.2p

11.2p

10.0p

10.0p

13.4p

13.4p

Dividend per share

Dividend per share

6.4p 
6.4p 
Up 4.9%
Up 4.9%

2013
2012
2011
2010
2009

2013
2012
2011
2010
2009

6.4p
6.1p

6.4p
6.1p

5.8p
5.8p

5.8p
5.8p

7.1p

7.1p

Group Revenue Share %

Group Revenue Share %

45%

45%
32%

32%

7%

16%

7%

16%
Destination and Premium
Taverns

Destination and Premium
Taverns

Leased

Leased

Brewing

Brewing

*  The underlying results reflect the performance of the Group before exceptional items. 
The Directors consider that these figures provide a useful indication of the underlying 
performance of the Group.

To find out more visit 
www.marstons.co.uk

1 

Strategic ReportMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013aT a glance

Marston’s operates over 2,000 pubs across the UK, many at 
the heart of thriving local communities. We run five 
breweries each producing distinctive local ales of genuine 
provenance. We employ around 13,000 people nationwide.

2 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 201316%

42%

16%

42%

16%

42%

7%

Pub Profit Mix %

Destination and Premium
32%
Taverns

Leased

42%

16%

7%

Pub Profit Mix %

Destination and Premium
Taverns

32%

Leased

45%

Group Revenue Share %

Destination and Premium

Taverns

Leased

Brewing

45%

Group Revenue Share %

Destination and Premium

Taverns

Leased

Brewing

PUbs
“The besT Place arOUnD here”
We operate pubs and bars under different business models – 
managed, franchised, tenanted and leased – in one business 
division. This maximises our operating flexibility and ensures that 
we are better placed to apply our consumer insights throughout 
the business. We invest in new-build pub-restaurants which 
meet increasing demand for informal dining, and align our 
community pubs to the changing needs of today’s pub 
customers. We are proud of our pubs, and we want our 
customers simply to think of them as “the best place around 
here” – whatever the business model, format or brand. Our 
principal pub segments are described below.

DesTinaTiOn anD PreMiUM – 349 PUbs
Destination pubs are larger, food-led managed pubs and include 
our new-build pub-restaurants with two main brands – Marston’s 
Two for One and Milestone. We aim to offer great value and high 
levels of service in a traditional pub environment – ideal for day 
to day convenience, special treats and celebrations. Around 50 
pubs also offer rooms.

Our Premium pubs and bars include Pitcher & Piano – popular 
with young adults attracted to lively bars in premium locations.

TaVerns – 1,316 PUbs
The Taverns segment is our community pub estate and includes 
franchised, managed and tenanted pubs. We believe the 
franchise model is ideally suited to the community market, 
combining the entrepreneurial flair of great licensees with the 
benefits of Marston’s economies of scale and insights, and we 
expect most of our Taverns pubs to be operated under this 
model over time. Great community pubs are about socialising, 
entertainment, good value food and drink and licensees who 
know their customers.

leaseD – 385 PUbs
Some of the best pubs in our estate, many of which are distinctive 
and characterful, are best operated by highly skilled lessees who 
run these pubs independently with exceptional service and high 
quality offers. The fact that we have a relatively small leased estate 
of less than 400 pubs contributes to our ability to foster good 
working relationships with our lessees.

breWing
“PreMiUM beers  
anD lOcal ales”
Our five breweries, situated in the North of 
England, the Midlands and the South of 
England, underpin our strategy and enable us 
to brew high quality, distinctive beers with true 
authenticity and provenance. 

branDs
We have a permanent range of 18 cask beers 
and brew a further 50 or so every year on  
a seasonal basis. Pedigree and Hobgoblin 
remain our national drive brands and feature  
in the top 20 bottled beer brands.

PreMiUM casK anD bOTTleD ale
We are market leaders in premium cask ale 
with a market share of 18% and, in bottled ale, 
our market share has increased to 24%. The 
£7 million investment in our new bottling line at 
Burton upon Trent, which opened in October 
2013, will support our objective to increase our 
market share to 30% by 2017. 

serVice
We pride ourselves on customer service and 
quality providing a full in-house distribution and 
Beer Quality Technician service. This allows us to 
control the quality of service as well as reinforcing 
our localness credentials. Our aim is to deliver the 
perfect pint every time.

3 

Strategic ReportMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013 
chairMan’s sTaTeMenT

Roger Devlin
Chairman

In this my first statement as Chairman, I report on a year of solid 
progress for Marston’s, with a strong operating performance in the 
second half year contributing to a 6.6% increase in underlying 
operating profit to £168.3 million (2012: £157.9 million). Profit before 
taxation and exceptional items also increased, by 1% to £88.4 million 
(2012: £87.8 million), despite significantly higher interest costs due 
principally to contractual rate increases in the securitisation. 
Underlying earnings of 12.3 pence per share were unchanged.

I chair the Board at an exciting stage of Marston’s development. I am 
fortunate to have joined a well-managed, long-established business 
with good knowledge of its markets. We have a clear, consistent 
strategy and it is producing promising results. I aim to continue to 
develop our current plans with a focus on ensuring that resources 
and capital are employed in the most favourable markets and 
consistent with consumer trends. 

Since joining Marston’s, I have been very impressed by the 
enthusiasm, dedication and professionalism of our people, from  
head office staff to those working in our pubs and in brewing.  
Their commitment is reflected in very good employee feedback 
survey results, and will be vital to our further development in a fast 
changing market.

In reviewing our operating results, I am especially encouraged by the 
good performance of our food-led Destination and Premium pubs, 
which are the focus of our investment plans and which underpin our 
growth, and by our outperformance in Brewing. We have well-
developed expertise in site selection and property development 
contributing to high returns from our new-build pub-restaurants, and 
a good understanding of our customers and markets. Our plans are 
well thought through and, with a visible new site pipeline, achievable.  
I am pleased to report that we are now able to increase our growth 
targets to 25-30 new pub-restaurants per year, with around 60 
targeted over the next two years – creating around 1,200 new jobs 
each year, mainly for young people and often in areas where 
employment opportunities are limited.

The community pub market however continues to face substantial 
challenges. Marston’s has been on the front foot in addressing these 
through the introduction of the franchise model and intensive 
management of smaller wet-led managed pubs, but the tenanted 
model remains difficult despite increased support. We therefore aim 
to accelerate our disposal plans; having realised nearly £50 million in 
2013 we have increased that target to at least £60 million in 2014.

These plans reflect changes in the way people use pubs and their 
higher expectations of them. Looking forward, we will continue to 
work hard to differentiate, to innovate, and to adapt new technology 
such as social media to ensure that our pubs remain relevant to 
today’s and tomorrow’s customers. Our goal to be “the best place 
around here” for celebrations, day to day treats and socialising, 
recognises that there are many competitors for the leisure pound, 
from restaurants to coffee shops – but none better than a  
well-run pub. 

In reviewing the balance sheet we have made some progress in 2013 
towards our objectives to reduce leverage and improve returns, and 
these will remain key priorities. Our property estate is substantially 

4 

freehold, with around £2 billion of assets at the year end. Cash 
generation has been strong, with free cash flow before investment 
capital of £86 million. We have secure long-term financing, with net 
debt excluding lease financing of £1,082 million (2012: £1,121 million), 
and an additional £109 million of funding raised through our innovative 
long-term lease financing in 2013. I am pleased to report that we 
continue to make progress in improving our returns with Cash Return 
On Cash Capital Employed of 10.8%, representing a 1.2% 
improvement since 2010.

The outlook for Marston’s is good, and the Board is pleased to 
recommend a final dividend of 4.1 pence per share, providing a  
total dividend for the year of 6.4 pence per share, up 5% on 2012 and 
covered 1.9 times (2012: 2.0 times). Our dividend policy is unchanged: 
we aim for dividend cover of around two times over the 
medium term.

I look forward to meeting shareholders and welcome your feedback 
on Marston’s and its strategy. In particular, I hope to see many of you 
at this year’s AGM when there will be an opportunity for us to discuss 
our progress and plans.

This is my opportunity to thank my predecessor, David Thompson,  
for his unfailing effort and strong leadership of the Board during his 
long and happy association with the Company. David was a tireless 
ambassador for the business and an eloquent and enthusiastic 
advocate of brewing and pubs. An independent Board review 
prepared for my arrival reflects a strong, well-rounded Board which  
is testament to his chairmanship since 2001.

Robin Hodgson retires from the Board at the close of this year’s  
AGM having served as a Non-executive Director since April 2002.  
I thank Robin, who has also been a very effective Senior Independent 
Director and Chairman of the Remuneration Committee, for his wise 
counsel and contribution to the work of the Board over the last 11 
years and wish him the best for the future. Neil Goulden succeeds 
Robin as Senior Independent Director and Chairman of the 
Remuneration Committee and Nick Backhouse succeeds Neil as 
Chairman of the Audit Committee.

In conclusion, I was privileged to be invited to serve as your 
Chairman. As you will read in this Annual Report and Accounts, 
Marston’s is in decent shape and continues to make good progress  
in delivering value to its shareholders and other stakeholders, despite 
the burden of both tax and regulation that we confront everyday. 
Similarly, I am well aware that disposable income for many of our 
customers remains limited and we will continue to strive at all times  
to provide fair value. We expect the pace of economic recovery to be 
modest across much of the country. Despite this I am confident that 
we have the right plans in place, and the resources necessary to  
achieve our objectives.

Roger Devlin
Chairman
28 November 2013

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013OUr bUsiness MODel

Our business model is simple: we own pubs that we manage 
ourselves or, in the case of smaller pubs, that are run by tenants, 
lessees and franchisees; and we brew beer. it is a model that we have 
operated since 1834 when the first of our businesses was founded.

MarsTOn’s inns  
anD TaVerns

•	 Destination and Premium pubs provide  

most of our growth and are great for customers 
looking to eat out – whether for convenience or  
as a treat.

•	 Taverns pubs are welcoming community pubs 

which thrive through offering sociability, 
entertainment and great value.

•	 Our leased pubs are owned by Marston’s  
but let to successful entrepreneurs who 
run their own business in distinctive,  
well located pubs.

MarsTOn’s  
beer cOMPany

•	 Over 70% of beers brewed by us are 
sold to customers independent of 
Marston’s – to the free trade, 
supermarkets and other pub 
companies. 

•	 Our range of genuinely local  

beers from our five  
breweries sets  
us apart.

MarsTOn’s Plc
90% of our profits come from 
Marston’s Inns and Taverns, the pub 
retailer – but we have not forgotten 
that Marston’s Beer Company, the 
brewer, is at the heart of the 
business. This gives us a real point 
of difference – we see the market 
from different perspectives.

neW  
bUilDs 
in 2013

a naTiOnal PrOgraMMe WiTh 22 neW  
siTes acrOss The UK inclUDing:

  Hunstanton in Norfolk, Holyhead in Anglesey, 

Harrogate in Yorkshire, Telford in Shropshire and 
Sandown in the Isle of Wight

  Three pub-restaurants in Scotland, four more 

planned in 2013/14

  Three lodges open – Chepstow, Redditch and 

Aberystwyth

£2 bn PrOPerTy 
POrTfOliO

•	 Most of our pubs have been around for a very 

long time, and we intend for that to continue – so 
we prefer to own our pubs outright (‘freehold’) 
rather than to lease them from another owner. 

•	 As freehold pubs are intended to be for  
the long term, we use long-term debt at  
a prudent level to finance them.

5 

Strategic ReportMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013932535EastMidlandsNorthSouth westScotlandSouth EastMarKeT OVerVieW

We operate in the UK eating-out and drinking-out markets through our pubs;  
sell our products to the UK on-trade and off-trade; and export to 57 countries 
worldwide. We carefully research the markets in which we operate so that we  
can assess and understand them, thus improving our standards, service and 
range to gain market share.

The UK PUb MarKeT
There are over 50,000 pubs in the UK operating in one of the 
following ways:

1.  Managed pubs are operated by a pub company or brewer 
which employs a salaried manager and pub staff and 
determines the service style and product range. There are 
around 8,000 managed pubs in the UK. Marston’s has around 
500 of these and our variety of operating formats allows us 
maximum flexibility to best meet our consumers’ needs. 

2.  Tenanted/Leased pubs are owned by a pub company or 

brewer but leased to, and operated by, a third party tenant  
or lessee, who pays rent. The tenant or lessee is responsible 
for the management of the pub and generally contracts to 
purchase some or all of their drinks products from the pub 
company or brewer which owns the pub. This part of the 
agreement is called the ‘tie’. There are approximately 25,000 
such pubs in the UK of which Marston’s has around 1,000. 
The relationship between pub owners and tenants and 
lessees has been the subject of government scrutiny in recent 
years and the industry remains a heavily regulated one. 
Marston’s has long argued that fair, sustainable rents and a 
partnership approach are vital for the success of tenanted 
and leased pubs, and all our agreements comply with the  
Pub Industry Framework Code of Practice.

3. 

In 2009 we introduced franchise agreements as a response to 
pressures on tenanted and leased pubs. This enables us to 
take greater control of the retail offer and standards allowing 
the franchisee to focus on the customer. We have 
approximately 600 franchised pubs. 

4.  Free houses and pubs which are independently owned and 
operated by private individuals, partnerships or companies. 
We supply around 3,800 customers through our independent 
free trade channel.

6 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013Destination  
and Premium:
growth in coffee sales up

19%

eaTing OUT
Whilst economic pressures continue to affect UK consumer 
confidence, spend on ‘everyday treats’ and ‘low ticket items’ has 
been resilient. The market is worth in excess of £50 billion and 
this is expected to grow. Managed and branded pubs are taking  
a greater share of this growth driven by an improvement in their 
food offer and adapting to customer trends for all day and less 
formal dining.1 

beer
Whilst the removal of the beer duty escalator earlier this year was 
helpful, beer consumption in pubs remains in overall decline. 
Factors driving this decline include the harmful impact of 
regulation and taxation on pubs in particular; the state of the 
economy; competition for disposable income and leisure time; 
lifestyle changes including increased health awareness; and the 
adaptation of pubs to exploit growth in casual dining.

Consumers have a broad range of eating-out options and where 
they choose to eat is driven primarily by food quality, choice and 
value. Research shows that consumers look at ingredients, 
cooking techniques and menu descriptions rather than calories to 
determine whether or not a meal is healthy1. Consumers are 
demanding more from pubs and want to experience something 
different whether that be the ‘theatre’ of seeing their meals freshly 
cooked, walking up to a carvery and choosing what they want on 
their plate, or customising their dish through a choice of toppings. 
There is also growth in less formal meal occasions and snacking 
throughout the day.

Our new-build strategy and value-for-money dining continues to 
represent a significant growth opportunity against this backdrop. 
Our focus on providing consumers with conveniently located 
pub-restaurants offering good value and quality service in 
attractive surroundings has resulted in significant growth in food 
sales, which now comprise 52% of total sales in Destination and 
Premium. On page 11 we have set out some of the exciting 
developments Marston’s has introduced to its food offerings. 

Destination and Premium food growth

Food sales mix 
Meals served
Spend per head on food

2013

2012

52%
27 million
£6.58

49%
24 million
£6.31

Destination  
and Premium:
average profit per pub up

11.9% to 
£207k

1 Allegra.

However, there continues to be growth in home consumption of ale, 
particularly premium bottled ale, providing opportunities to grow 
market share. Cask ales continue to outperform the market and now 
account for over 15% of all beer sales. They continue to recruit new 
drinkers with appeal based on delivering greater product attributes  
of flavour, craft credentials and brewer provenance. 

Marston’s strategy is focused on the growth areas of the market 
and we utilise our five breweries to innovate constantly and exploit 
emerging trends. We continue to outperform a declining beer 
market through our focus on cask and premium bottled beers. 
Our new £7 million bottling line opened in October 2013 and will 
support our aim of increasing market share in the UK premium 
bottled ale sector. FastcaskTM continues to open up new markets 
for cask ale and our Revisionist range allows us to introduce new 
and exciting beers on a rotational basis. At The Publican’s Choice 
Awards 2013 Marston’s was named as best national cask ale 
brewer. The awards, voted for by readers of The Publican’s 
Morning Advertiser, recognise the best suppliers in the trade.  
Our extensive portfolio of beer styles and innovative approach to 
creating new beers: including the Single Hop and other beers  
in the craft range, contributed to our success at the awards.

UK Premium Ale Volume Growth Trend 

Marston's
Market

12

10

e
g
n
a
h
C
%
T
A
M

8

6

4

2

0

-2

-4

-6

Aug 2011

Aug 2012

Aug 2013

Source: BBPA SVS/Company Figures

7 

Numbers for internal use only, Chart can be published with the source.

Strategic ReportMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013 
 
 
 
 
OUr sTraTegy

Our strategy is for Marston’s to grow and increase returns 
through the continued development of great pubs, bars and 
pub-restaurants and a unique portfolio of premium beers and 
local ales. We aim to provide our customers with the best place 
around for celebrating, everyday treats and socialising.

Delivering sustainable growth:
Marston’s is investing capital in a sector of the UK eating-out market, which 
is believed to offer attractive growth opportunities as described within the 
Market Overview.

Increasing return on capital:
Ultimately, shareholder value is created by generating superior returns in 
comparison with cost of capital. We are investing significantly in new-build 
pub-restaurants and have a balance sheet comprising approximately £2 billion  
of predominantly freehold property. 

Reducing leverage:
Marston’s has secure, long-term debt of approximately £1.3 billion. The amount of 
leverage which is appropriate is decided in the context of the affordability of debt 
– that is, it is ‘serviceable’ and provides sufficient headroom – and that it is 
‘replaceable’ as facilities mature or bonds are repaid.

8 

Destination 
and Premium 
strategy

high quality estate
Estate development
 – High quality, nationally located pub 

estate, directly operated by Marston’s

 – Broad range of trading formats and 

brands

Consumer focus
 – Value for money, great service

 – ‘F-Plan’: Food, Families, Females,  

Forty/Fifty somethings

Objectives

 – Increase the estate to around 500 sites 

in the next five years

 – Develop Two for One and Milestone 
drive brands to around 200 outlets 
each in the next five years

 – Continued development of the ‘F-Plan’

 – Continue to improve service standards 
through investment in our pubs and  
our people

Progress

 – Completion of over 100 new-builds in 

the last seven years

 – Food mix accounts for 52% of sales

 – Like-for-like sales and margin growth in 

the last three years

future plans

 – Target 25-30 new openings nationwide 
per annum over the next few years

 – Maintain value offers

 – Expansion of premium pubs offer

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013Taverns 
strategy

Leased 
strategy

Brewing 
strategy

great community pubs
Evolution of franchise
 – Low barriers to entry

 – Simple model

 – Efficient operation

Consumer focus
 – Making community pubs the heart  

of the local community

 – Offer great drink, great food and great 

entertainment for all customers

smaller high quality estate
Stable estate
 – Recruit high quality entrepreneurs  

to maintain stable estate

 – Flexible agreements

Consumer focus
 – Leverage Marston’s pub knowledge 

into Leased estate

 – Access to Marston’s buying power  
to offer consumers great value

a premium beer business
Strong presence in local
markets
 – National independent free trade 

operation

 – Operate out of five breweries in  

Burton upon Trent, Wolverhampton, 
Witney, Ringwood and Cockermouth

Premium focus
 – Focus on premium cask and bottled  
ale and development of craft beer

 – Expansion of take home and export 

teams

Objectives

Objectives

Objectives

 – Convert all pubs to managed or 

 – Target licensee stability rate of 90%

 – Become category leader for premium 

 – Growth through stable relationships

cask and bottled ale

 – Leverage value from local breweries

franchised within five years

 – Target licensee stability rate of 90%

 – Growth in profits

 – Dispose of smaller wet-led pubs

Progress

Progress

 – Lessees offered full flexibility on rents 

and beer pricing

 – Retention rate over 90%

 – Around 600 sites operating under 

 – Stable profits

franchise agreement

 – Franchised pubs profit growth over 

past three years

 – 150 pubs disposed of in last two years

future plans

 – Target at least 100 franchise 

conversions per annum in next  
two years

 – Development of food offers more 
appropriate for community pubs

 – Target 400 individual pub disposals 

over two years

future plans

 – Continued development of agreements 
to maximise Marston’s and lessee 
profitability

 – Investment in estate to drive profit 

growth

Progress

 – Expansion of independent free trade 

operation serving over 3,500 customers

 – Segment market leader in premium 

cask and bottled ale

 – £7 million investment in new bottling line 

to support future growth

future plans

 – Expand independent free trade 

customer base

 – Maintain segment market leader status 

and grow market share

 – Exploit future growth opportunities in 

export markets

9 

Strategic ReportMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013sTraTegy in acTiOn

Our strategy, as described below, focuses on the organic development of the 
business. The potential for developing through acquisition is reviewed regularly 
and measured against the consistently strong returns achieved through our 
organic investments. in 2014 we intend to accelerate our new-build development 
plans and to initiate a more aggressive disposal programme for smaller wet-led 
pubs. There are five key components to our plans:

1. Operating high quality pubs for current and future 

consumers

New-build pub-restaurants
Investment in new-build pub-restaurants continues to be the 
primary growth driver for Marston’s. In 2013 we opened  
22 new-build pub-restaurants across the UK, including our first 
pubs in Scotland. Over the past seven years we have built more 
than 100 new pub-restaurants throughout England, Wales 
and Scotland. 

Our pub-restaurants are well located and designed to combine 
traditional pub ambience with convenience and provide attractive, 
relaxed dining options. We focus particularly on value for money with 
high standards of service and building pub-restaurants which are 
ideal for day to day convenience, special treats or celebrations.

From an investment perspective, the organic new-build 
programme has generated consistently higher returns on capital 
invested than historical acquisitions across the industry, reflecting 
careful selection of hand-picked sites, attractive pub design and 
build, and a strong consumer offer. The performance of our 
new-build programme since 2010 has been good, consistently 
beating our target return on capital of 16.5% representing an 
investment multiple of 6x EBITDA. This high return on capital has 
generated significant value for investors, demonstrated by the 
2012 estate valuation of the new-build pubs which yielded an 
uplift of over 50% against build cost.

Site selection is critical to the success of our new-build pub-
restaurants. Our experienced acquisitions team have established 
good relationships with site developers, helping to maintain a 
‘preferred partner’ status based on knowledge and experience. 
As a consequence we have a strong, visible site pipeline for the 
foreseeable future. 

Our success in finding good sites and the strong financial results 
achieved through building new pub-restaurants have enabled us  
to increase our expansion target from 20-25 per year to 25-30  
per year.

Accelerated disposal of smaller wet-led pubs
Consumer expectations are changing and demand for better-
quality pub and dining experiences is increasing, stimulated by 
greater choice and new, exciting brands and formats. This trend 
provides opportunity, but it also exposes an increasing number of 
pubs – and licensees – to a developing market which is 
demanding higher standards.

The pubs most exposed to this trend tend to be smaller, wet-led 
pubs where food sales are modest or incidental, and which lack 
the position or scale to compete effectively with either well-
implemented managed formats or very high quality independent 
operators. These pubs have also suffered most from the 
government’s taxation and legislative changes in recent years.  
As a result we now aim for a higher number of disposals, 
principally from the Taverns estate, with a target of £60-70 million 
proceeds per annum for financial years 2014 and 2015.

10 

The new-build programme – a national 
rollout with industry leading momentum
Marston’s pub development initiative is a truly national programme and 
2013 saw us open pubs across the UK, including in the Isle of Wight, 
Dunbar, Hunstanton and Holyhead.
We employ a leading team of development surveyors to acquire land and 
have concluded development deals with Premier Inn, Tesco, Morrisons, 
KFC and Costa Coffee.
Our achievements were recognised by the Property Industry in 2011, 
where we won “Property Company of the Year – Leisure” at the Estates 
Gazette awards and we have been shortlisted, as finalists, again in 2013. 
We were selected ahead of many established property companies and 
are regarded as a successful property developer in our own right.
We expect to open 25-30 freehold sites per annum and have a good 
pipeline of openings for many years to come.
Our 2013/2014 planned openings by region are shown below:

5

3

5

3

2

9

South East

Scotland

East

Midlands

North

South West

New-builds enable us to expand into new geography, with a building 
designed to maximise the consumer experience and operational 
efficiency. Our recent estate revaluation showed that each new 
pub-restaurant opened is worth over £1 million more than the 
development cost meaning that our expansion programme is delivering 
significant shareholder value.
In reality quality pub-restaurants rarely become available in the open 
market and, when they do, they attract significant premium bids from the 
sector. A controlled development programme means we do not have to 
rely on opportunistic purchases or compromise our return on capital 
(ROC) hurdle rates when such pubs present themselves.
We are one of the few pub companies to achieve BREEAM Excellent 
accreditation on new developments and incorporate many energy saving 
initiatives within our standard specification.
Our focus and track record of completing deals has resulted in a 
significant pipeline of sites under negotiation (over 100) meaning that the 
new-build programme will be a cornerstone of Marston’s expansion 
strategy for many years to come.

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013food development

Informality in dining out is becoming more popular, and customers’ 
needs are for a more casual and less structured eating experience.  
At the same time, there is an increasing trend in three other key themes 
– a demand for freshness, customisation and more ‘retailtainment’.  
Our pubs and offers are well suited to benefit from these trends; below 
are three examples from last year. 

Milestone Rotisserie 
As part of the continued rollout of the Milestone Rotisserie format, there 
has been further focus on the front-of-house rotisserie oven and 
accompanying theatre and merchandising, providing a unique 
environment for customers.
Larger ovens have been installed in some pubs, creating a greater focus 
on the rotisserie cooking method as well as enabling a greater range of 
meats to be cooked in them. The deli layout provides a more all-
encompassing and sensory experience than standard pub dining and in 
addition to our beer and glassware, the deli now stocks the same sauces 
that are used on the rotisserie dishes – adding to the more immersive 
nature of the whole experience and customer relationship. 

More than just a carvery 
Customers have always liked the ability to see the food in front of them 
and choose for themselves. In our Milestone Carvery pubs they can now 
also enjoy a cooked breakfast selection from the deck every Saturday 
and Sunday. 
Taking ‘eat with your eyes’ one step further, every pub has had a cake 
display cabinet installed – showcasing some really jaw-dropping giant 
desserts. Available either to eat in or take away, this has significantly 
increased sales of desserts.
With the main carvery offer, freshness and provenance have also 
become more evident, with virtually all vegetables served now fresh,  
not frozen, seasonal items introduced, and extra communication in pubs 
to explain provenance.

Wood-fired pizzas in Revere pubs
Our premium pubs already serve amazing quality steaks, cooked in our 
Josper charcoal ovens, giving an intense smoky flavour. This year a new 
feature has been added to the menu and dining experience in the form  
of rustic wood-fired pizza ovens. 
Dedicated pizza chefs hand stretch and cook pizzas in front of 
customers using these traditional wood-fired ovens. The offer is 
enhanced with the addition of great-tasting local specials. The Curious 
Pig pizza, for example, which features roasted bacon, pulled pork 
shoulder and caramelised apple, has proved to be a massive hit  
with customers.
The addition of this quality pizza offer has opened up other trading parts 
of the week outside of traditional weekend and evening peaks. Pizzas 
now account for around 20% of food sales in Revere pubs.

These more aggressive disposal plans are intended to improve 
returns over time; assist the funding of the new-build programme; 
and improve further the quality of our estate. During 2013 we sold, 
or exchanged contracts, on 130 pubs and other assets 
generating net proceeds of around £50 million. In addition, since 
the year end we have unconditionally exchanged contracts on the 
disposal of a package of 202 pubs for a consideration of £90 
million at a sale multiple of just under 7.6x EBITDA. As a 
consequence, the quality of our remaining estate will improve.

Development of a range of pub brands and formats 
appropriate to local markets
Our range of pub brands and formats is one of the strengths of our 
business model, enabling us to meet different customer expectations 
for different occasions and in different markets: in each format, our 
objective is to be “the best place around here” – for celebrating, 
socialising and convenience. Our formats are in one of three principal 
groups, each of which achieved like-for-like sales growth in 2013. 

Destination food: our 314 pubs in this category are principally  
in two brands – Marston’s Two for One (138 pubs), and Milestone  
(82 pubs). Both brands offer excellent value for money to customers, 
with a focus on offering high quality food and drink in a relaxing pub 
environment at affordable prices. Service standards are high, 
including full table service in all sites. Our focus on service and pub 
ambience together with interesting and varied menus supports a 
high food sales mix of around 56%. Our new-build pub-restaurants 
are operated under these two brands.

Premium pubs and bars: our 35 outlets are Pitcher & Piano bars 
and Revere pubs. Pitcher & Piano performed well in 2013 with good 
growth in like-for-like sales and profit. Pitcher & Piano is popular with 
young, more affluent adults attracted to lively bars in premium 
locations. Food sales are increasingly important and now account for 
25% of sales. We opened a new Pitcher & Piano in Hitchin during the 
summer which has traded strongly, and we will selectively seek to 
expand the estate as appropriate locations become available. Revere 
pubs are high quality pubs in very strong locations which benefit 
from a premium offer with an independent trading style. The first six 
Revere pubs opened in 2013 with six more identified for conversion 
in 2014. 

Taverns: Taverns is our community pubs business, including 135 
managed pubs, 603 franchise pubs and 578 tenancies. We aim to 
offer traditional pub entertainment and everyday value food and 
drink in a traditional ‘community local’ pub environment. Typically, 
these are wet-led pubs, although food sales are increasing and 
represent around 25% of sales mix. We will continue to invest, 
where necessary, in these pubs. Over the next two to three years 
we expect that most of our Taverns pubs will be operated under 
our successful franchise model which is described in further  
detail below.

In Marston’s Inns we offer high quality pub accommodation in 
around 50 pubs. In addition, we are co-located with national 
lodge operators on 12 sites that have already been developed, 
and in 2013 we opened three Marston’s lodges – Aberystwyth, 
Chepstow and Redditch – adjacent to pub-restaurants. 

11 

Strategic ReportMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013sTraTegy in acTiOn ContinuEd

Marston’s Pub career Path

With the continued rise in food sales across our business this year we 
have concentrated on enhancing the training and engagement levels of 
our kitchen teams and chefs, and launched the third and final level of our 
Chef Development Programme (CDP) which forms a key part of the 
Marston’s Pub Career Path.
All employees who join Marston’s to work within our kitchens will start  
by completing a job specific induction programme and five e-learning 
courses. Training and development thereafter takes place through  
our bespoke CDP.
For employees who join Marston’s as a Kitchen Porter or Kitchen 
Assistant, CDP Level 1 trains them to become a Line Chef. This level 
teaches them how to cook every dish on the menu and how to use every 
piece of equipment in the kitchen. In addition CDP Level 1 gives 
employees an understanding of basic profit and loss within the kitchen, 
and softer skills relating to working as a team and communication skills. 
Since the launch of the first level of CDP in 2011, over 2,000 employees 
have completed this training programme. 
For Line Chefs with their eyes on a step towards kitchen management, 
they can continue to progress through our career path and complete 
CDP Level 2, which will train them to be a Second Chef. This level 
provides them with the skills and knowledge to manage the kitchen in 
the Head Chef’s absence and includes training in areas such as placing 
food orders, completing stock takes and keeping the kitchen team 
motivated. Since launching CDP Level 2 in 2012 over 800 chefs have 
completed this level helping them obtain their CDP Level 2 Second Chef 
job title and the recognition that comes with this.
Launched at the start of the 2012/13 financial year CDP Level 3 is the 
level that develops our Second Chefs to Head Chefs. As part of this level 
we focus on developing the management skills of our Head Chefs 
through ‘blended learning’ which includes completion of a workbook, 
demonstrating practical skills in their own kitchen and three classroom 
based workshops delivered by the kitchen training team. We are 
delighted that over 130 employees have completed their Head Chef 
training so far. 

2. Value and service

Over the last decade our organic development has been 
underpinned by the ‘F-Plan’: a focus on Food, Families, Females 
and Forty/Fifty somethings. The plan was introduced in 
anticipation of consumer trends including the development of the 
UK eating-out market; social and demographic changes including 
higher female employment and a maturing UK population; and the 
potential for pubs to offer a better experience to families. We are 
confident that this focus remains appropriate today.

In our managed pubs we served over 30 million meals last year 
and in our Destination pubs food is the primary driver for around 
80% of customer visits. We consistently outperformed the Peach 
Market Tracker – an accepted index of pub and restaurant 
performance – in 2013 and have increased our share of the 
eating-out market. The appeal of our pubs to families is strong 
and increasing, demonstrated by a 19% increase in kids’ meals 
served in the year.

Consumer expectations are increasing and the pace of change is 
rapid. We aim to continue to increase market share within the 
informal pub-dining sector through offering excellent choice, 
outstanding value and high service standards – key priorities for 
customers today. Our menus are refreshed frequently and offer 
choice from traditional pub favourites to international meals and 
12 

Development through the career path is not the only way that we have 
been able to engage with our valued kitchen teams this year. 2013 saw  
a series of Head Chef Conferences take place within our Two for One 
format. Our Two for One Head Chefs were invited to regional 
conferences to hear all about Two for One performance, future strategy 
and their new menu. We also launched our new Head Chef Bonus 
Scheme in October 2013 recognising the outstanding contribution of a 
number of Head Chefs through prizes awarded for excellent SMILE 
survey scores on food quality.
Our plans to develop our kitchen team do not end here. In the coming 
year we have plans to continue kitchen team and chef skill development 
and engagement by introducing new training programmes for our 
Milestone Carvery and Milestone Rotisserie sites. We are also looking to 
build development bridges between our Head Chef Programme and our 
Deputy Manager Programme for those Head Chefs with aspirations to 
move front-of-house and towards pub management. 

lower calorie alternatives. The introduction of full table service and 
new retail technology such as hand-held tills exemplifies our 
commitment to service improvement – initiatives like this assist 
with customer communication, contributing to double digit growth 
in starters, desserts and coffee sales in 2013.

We measure our success through our online customer feedback 
process which we call the ‘SMILE’ report for obvious reasons. 
SMILE provides quick feedback enabling us to respond faster  
in improving customer service.

Our people are critical to the success of our service ethos.  
We have comprehensive recruitment and training programmes 
designed to ensure that we recruit the best staff available in a 
highly skilled area, with clear development, training and career 
paths for all of our pub staff. There is a perception in the UK that 
careers in the pub sector are low paid and low skilled. As the 
growing number of great managers and chefs attracted to our 
pubs demonstrates, this is a highly skilled business, and there is a 
clear pathway for talented young people with front-of-house and 
catering skills. Marston’s opens 20-30 new pub-restaurants a 
year, each one creating around 50 new jobs, many of which are 
accessible to young people and in places where jobs are 
considered scarce. 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 20133. Evolution of our franchise model

4. Focus on pub quality and support in leased pubs

Our franchise model was introduced in 2009 with the principal 
objectives of improving the consumer offer in tenanted community 
pubs, and improving profitability in those pubs for both Marston’s 
and licensees. Our franchise agreement, with some variations, 
now operates in around 600 pubs and has three principal benefits 
for licensees:

Over the last five years, the market-wide performance of tenanted 
and leased estates has been weak. We have separated our 
leased estate from the tenanted estate and, as described above, 
we have clear plans to convert our tenanted pubs to the franchise 
model or to accelerate disposals depending upon our 
assessment of sustainability.

•	 Simplicity: licensees typically earn around 20% of turnover, 

with no payments for rent, food or drinks, which are all 
supplied by Marston’s. Licensees are thus focused on revenue 
maximisation.

•	 Reduced funding requirement: licensees are only required 
to provide a refundable deposit, typically £5,000, but do not 
have to buy fixtures and fittings.

•	 Reduced licensee risk: other than payroll costs, Marston’s 

has responsibility for the cost of goods sold, operating 
expenses, and stock. We ensure that these costs are 
managed efficiently through using our established retail 
systems and our Group purchasing power.

The benefits to Marston’s are clear: the post-conversion 
profitability of the franchised estate is strong with  
£1.5 million profit growth achieved in 2013. Licensee stability  
is high, at over 90%, and we receive more applicants for pubs 
operating under a franchise model than for those operating under 
traditional agreements: prospective licensees clearly value the 
benefits described above. Around 30% of applications are from 
people new to the pub sector.

We first introduced franchise models into pubs which were 
formerly tenanted, but in 2013 extended the model into 20 
previously managed pubs achieving positive results. We anticipate 
extending this further into the Taverns managed estate and over 
time expect that all Taverns community pubs will operate under 
franchise models. In our view, this combines the benefits of an 
incentivised, entrepreneurial licensee able to ‘act local’ with the 
control and scale benefits offered by the managed model.

In summary, we anticipate that the franchised estate will continue 
to grow in 2014 and that over time, all of our Taverns estate will 
operate under either a managed or franchise model.

The performance of Marston’s leased estate has consistently 
been more robust than the sector generally. The reasons for 
this include:

•	 A consistent approach to setting fair, sustainable rents over 

many years.

•	 Transparency in dealing with licensees.
•	 Assistance for licensees from good Business Development 

Managers, and wide-ranging support in terms of promotions, 
cost management, advice and online facilities.

Essential to the long-term sustainability of this segment is a high 
quality estate of attractive, well-located pubs capable of meeting 
increasing consumer demand for better quality experiences, and 
which are therefore capable of attracting good, entrepreneurial 
licensees. These are likely to be food-led rather than wet-led, and 
able to compete against value-managed formats through offers 
characterised by individuality, differentiated menus, service and 
quality. We believe our high quality leased estate offers  
these characteristics.

We recognise that the success and sustainability of these pubs is 
down to good lessees: we contribute with a robust appointment 
process, fair dealing and support thereafter. The fact that we have 
a relatively small leased estate of less than 400 high quality pubs 
contributes to our ability to foster good working relationships with 
our lessees. 

13 

Strategic ReportMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013Tapping into craft beer 

Whilst the overall beer market continues to decline, more premium 
formats of beer including cask ales, world lagers and craft beers 
continue to grow and deliver opportunities for value and margin growth. 
This is fuelled by consumers moving away from mass market and 
commodity beers and looking for products that deliver more of a 
premium experience on their beer drinking occasions for which they  
are prepared to pay a premium.
Our annual drinker survey revealed that these consumers define craft 
beers as being in limited distribution, produced from smaller regional and 
less well known international brewers, with a dedication to ingredients 
and craftsmanship, delivering more taste and flavour.
These findings have led to the development of a portfolio offering of 
premium draught and bottled craft beers to complement our core range 
of premium cask and bottled ales. 
We have launched our own craft beer brand platform with the Revisionist 
beer series. This gives the brewing teams at each of our regional 
breweries the opportunity to raise their profile through the production of 
their own interpretations of classic and contemporary  
beer styles and provides the consumer with different beer drinking 
experiences.
We have also established a strategic alliance with the Shipyard Brewing 
Co. to produce collaboration beers that allow us to brew and distribute 
their beers in the UK. 
In the latter part of 2013 we also agreed a partnership contract with 
Heineken International (headquartered in Amsterdam) to be their 
exclusive UK distributor for the Premium Czech beer brand Krusovice. 
Craft beer is delivering a premium margin opportunity:
•	 Craft beers are growing at 77% volume and 83% value year on year1
•	 Select drinkers are prepared to pay an average premium of 33 pence 

per pint2

1  CGA Strategy Sept 2013.
2  Marston’s Drinker Survey RBD research Sept 2012.

sTraTegy in acTiOn ContinuEd

5. Differentiation in the beer market through a 

‘localness’ and premium ale strategy 

There are two consumer trends which have influenced our brewing 
strategy in recent years. 

First, the ale market has fragmented as a consequence of increasing 
consumer interest in provenance, choice and taste – particularly in 
traditional ales. This trend broadly mirrors the growth of craft beers in 
the US, and is evident in the UK by the growth in micro-breweries 
(there are now around 1,000 breweries across the country). There is 
less interest in conventional ‘big brand’ behaviour amongst  
beer drinkers.

Second is the demand for more premium beers. This is linked to 
interest in taste, but also reflects the increasing importance of eating 
out in pubs: the choice of beer is more likely to be premium when it 
accompanies a meal.

In determining our brewing strategy some years ago, we anticipated 
these trends. We have a competitive advantage in not only being 
able to brew beers from five breweries in England, but also being 
able to sell them across the UK. 

This strategy has produced demonstrable success: in 2013 we 
increased ale volumes by 6% in a market which declined by 3% 
building on the volume growth and market share gains achieved in 
recent years. Over the past five years we have increased our 
premium ale volumes by around 25% in total and around 42% in the 
off-trade against a declining market. We are leaders in premium cask 
ale, with a market share of 18%, and in bottled ale with a share  
of 24%. 

Our wide brand portfolio is supported by high standards of service  
to our customers in the independent free trade and pub sector 
generally, and through category knowledge and leadership including 
publication of The Cask Ale Report and The Premium Bottled Ale 
Report, which can be accessed on our website.

Innovation is critical to our future plans. Examples of brewing 
innovation include the ground-breaking fastcaskTM system which has 
enabled us to expand the market for cask ale; and the launch of our 
Single Hop programme, which is now in its second year and involves 
the creation of different flavoured beers using hops from around the 
world. In 2013 we introduced our own craft beer range including 
Revisionist lager; Marston’s Oyster Stout; and Shipyard IPA – the 
product of an alliance with one of the largest craft brewers in the US, 
the Shipyard Brewing Co. from Portland, Maine. 

Our marketing activity reflects the character of our brands: Marston’s 
Pedigree is ‘The Official Beer of England Cricket’; by contrast, 
Hobgoblin is the ‘Unofficial Beer of Halloween’. Regionally, we 
support local brands through sponsorship of events including  
the New Forest Show, the Henley Regatta and the Keswick  
Jazz Festival.

Future growth is targeted through continued developments in  
the off-trade; the export market; and the provision of brewing, 
packaging and distribution services to third parties.

14 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013grOUP OVerVieW

Ralph Findlay
Chief Executive Officer

Andrew Andrea
Chief Financial Officer

“in 2013 we achieved good growth in turnover and 
operating profit despite significant challenges. This 
reflects our unstinting focus on what our customers 
want: excellent service and value for money in high 
quality pubs and bars. in 2013 we served 30 million 
meals, with food now the principal reason for 
around 80% of customer visits in our Destination 
pubs. 

Operating margin of 21.5% was 0.4% below last year. We 
achieved higher operating margins in Destination and Premium as 
a consequence of opening new-build pub-restaurants with higher 
profit conversion (25 in 2012 and 22 in 2013) and in Leased as a 
consequence of reduced temporary management costs and 
tighter cost control. This was offset by the conversion of pubs 
from tenancy to a franchise model within Taverns (around 600 at 
the year end, compared to around 500 last year), and a higher 
off-trade sales mix in Brewing. 

looking forward we will accelerate our high-return 
new-build programme whilst increasing the level 
of disposals from our lower turnover wet-led pubs. 
We have made an encouraging start to the new 
financial year and remain confident that our 
proven strategy is aligned to the underlying trends 
in the sector.”

2013 performance summary
Our performance in the second half year was strong after a 
challenging first half year affected by poor weather. The contrast 
between the two periods was significant: compared to the prior 
year underlying operating profit declined by 1.5% in the first half 
but increased by 12.6% in the second. Good trading momentum 
has continued into the new financial year. 

Revenue increased by 8.8% to £782.9 million, with growth in 
Destination and Premium, Taverns and Brewing and the benefit  
of a 53rd trading week. 

Underlying operating profit increased by 6.6% to £168.3 million, with 
growth in Destination and Premium and in Brewing. Operating profit 
in Taverns was below last year principally due to a significant level of 
disposals, poor weather in the first half year and a more subdued 
performance in our tenanted pubs in line with market trends, mostly 
offset by growth in our managed and franchised pubs.

Underlying profit before tax of £88.4 million was up 0.7%  
(2012: £87.8 million) despite the anticipated higher interest costs. 
These were due principally to contractual increases in securitised 
interest – these have now peaked and securitised interest costs 
abate from financial year 2014 onwards. 

Underlying earnings of 12.3 pence per share (2012: 12.3 pence 
per share) were in line with last year. 

Net debt at the year end excluding lease financing was lower at 
£1,082 million (2012: £1,121 million); debt to EBITDA on the same 
basis reduced to 5.3 times (2012: 5.6 times) reflecting the benefit 
of lease financing of £109 million arranged during the year.

We continue to make good progress on improving returns with 
Cash Return On Cash Capital Employed (CROCCE) having 
improved to 10.8%, representing an increase of 1.2% since 2010.

The proposed final dividend of 4.1 pence per share, giving a total 
dividend for the year of 6.4 pence per share, represents a 5% 
increase compared to 2012. Dividend cover was 1.9 times (2012: 
2.0 times). Our dividend policy is to target progressive increases 
in dividend, at a cover of around two times in the medium term.

Current trading 
We have seen an encouraging start to the new financial year. In 
Destination and Premium, like-for-like sales in the seven weeks  
to 23 November increased by 3.1%, with food sales growth of 4.6%, 
and wet sales up by 1.0%. We have opened seven new pub-
restaurants to date. In Taverns, like-for-like sales in managed and 
franchised pubs are up 2.1% and tenanted profits are in line with 
expectations. In Leased pubs profits are in line with last year  
and in Brewing our beer brands are performing in line with  
our expectations.

15 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013Strategic ReportPerfOrMance anD financial reVieW

Destination and Premium
Taverns
Leased
Brewing
Group Services

Group

Revenue

 Underlying operating profit

Margin

2013
£m

349.2
250.8
55.6
127.3
 – 

782.9

2012
£m

306.1
241.6
58.3
113.7
 – 

719.7

2013
£m

70.3
69.5
26.0
16.9
(14.4)

2012
£m

56.8
73.2
26.0
16.4
(14.5)

168.3

157.9

2013
%

20.1
27.7
46.8
13.3
(1.8)

21.5

2012
%

18.6
30.3
44.6
14.4
(2.0)

21.9

Destination and Premium
Total revenue increased by 14.1% to £349.2 million reflecting the 
continued strong performance of our new-build pub-restaurants, 
growth in like-for-like sales and the benefit of the 53rd trading 
week. Underlying operating profit of £70.3 million was up 23.8% 
(2012: £56.8 million). Average profit per pub increased to 
£207,000, up 11.9%.

Total like-for-like sales were 2.2% above last year, with growth in 
the second half year of 4.1%. Like-for-like food sales were up by 
3.9% through a combination of volume growth and increased 
sales of starters, desserts and coffee which contributed to a  
27 pence increase in spend per head. In Destination pubs, food 
now accounts for 56% of total sales (2012: 54%) and in Premium 
pubs and bars food is 25% of sales (2012: 24%).

Leased
Total revenue decreased by 4.6% to £55.6 million, principally 
reflecting lower volumes in line with the market. Underlying 
operating profit of £26.0 million was in line with last year. Average 
profit per pub increased by 2.1% to £67,000, and licensee stability 
remained high at 92%.

As with tenanted pubs, underlying measures of lessee ‘health’, 
including rent alleviations, improved during the financial year. 
Operating margin was 2.2% above last year at 46.8%, primarily 
due to a higher mix of rental income, and lower support costs.

Brewing
Total revenue increased by 12.0% to £127.3 million. Underlying 
operating profit increased by 3.0% to £16.9 million. 

Like-for-like wet sales increased by 0.2%, outperforming the 
declining UK on-trade drinks market. We continue to see growth 
in more premium products, with premium cask ale volumes up 
9% and premium lager up 11%. Wine sales increased by 13%  
and now account for 24% of drinks sales (2012: 22%).

Overall ale volumes were up 6% on last year, with premium cask 
ale volumes up 4% and bottled ale volumes up 19%. We have 
maintained our position as ‘category market leader’, increasing 
our market share in each of these categories by over 1%. 
Hobgoblin saw growth of 16%, and is now our largest brand.

We achieved a 1.5% improvement in operating margin through 
moderate price increases and tight cost control. 

Taverns 
Total revenue increased by 3.8% to £250.8 million reflecting the 
increased revenue contribution from more pubs operating under 
the franchise model. Underlying operating profit was £69.5 million, 
a decrease of 5.1%, principally reflecting a significant level of 
disposals, poor weather in the first half year and a more subdued 
performance in our tenanted pubs in line with market trends. 
Average profit per pub is in line with last year.

In our managed and franchised pubs like-for-like sales were in line 
with last year and operating profits were up 3.7%, reflecting the 
continued success of pubs operating under the franchise model. 

Tenanted like-for-like operating profits were down 7.7% in the 
period, an improvement on the decline in the first half, reflecting 
the continued challenges facing small wet-led tenanted pubs in 
the current market and representing a relatively subdued 
performance given the better weather in the second half year. 

Operating margin was 2.6% below last year at 27.7%, primarily 
due to the conversion of pubs, which were formerly tenanted, to 
franchise models. These agreements generate increased profit 
but the operating margin percentage is reduced as a 
consequence of accounting for sales at full retail value.

In the independent free trade, our account base increased by 3% 
to more than 3,800 customers, and premium ale sales to this 
sector increased by 6%. In the take home market we continue 
to perform very strongly with volumes up 18%. 

Operating margin was down versus last year at 13.3%, reflecting 
the higher proportion of volume through the off-trade, which 
commands a lower margin percentage.

Capital expenditure and disposals
Capital expenditure was £150.8 million in 2013 (2012: £129.8 
million), including the construction of 22 pub-restaurants. The 
principal reasons for the increase are: an additional £13.6 million 
on new-builds as we plan to accelerate the new-build programme 
for 2014 and 2015; and £7 million in respect of a new bottling line 
within Brewing which was originally intended to be funded 
through an operating lease. We expect that capital expenditure 
will be around £140 million in 2014, including around £80 million 
for the construction of 25-30 new pub-restaurants. 

During the year we generated £46.2 million of cash from the sale 
of 130 pubs and other assets.

Financing
At 5 October 2013 the Group had a £257.5 million bank facility to 
May 2016, and the amount drawn down at 5 October 2013 was 
£191 million. Subsequent to the year end, this facility has been 

16 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013extended to November 2018 on attractive terms. This facility, 
together with a long-term securitisation of approximately £1 billion 
and the lease financing arrangements described below provides 
us with an appropriate level of financing headroom for the 
medium term. The Group has sufficient headroom on both the 
banking and securitisation covenants and also has flexibility to 
transfer pubs between the banking and securitisation groups. 

During the period, the Group entered into three new lease 
financing arrangements which have a net value of £108.6 million 
as at 5 October 2013. This financing is a form of sale and 
leaseback agreement whereby the freehold reverts to the Group 
at the end of the term at nil cost, consistent with our preference 
for predominantly freehold asset tenure. The agreements range 
from 35-40 years and provide the Group with an extended debt 
maturity profile at attractive rates of interest. Unlike a traditional 
sale and leaseback, the associated liability is recognised as debt 
on the balance sheet due to the reversion of the freehold.

Net debt excluding lease financing of £1,082 million at 5 October 
2013 is a decrease of £39 million compared to £1,121 million at  
29 September 2012. Operating cash flow of £169.4 million 
remains strong driven by solid profits and tight control of 
working capital.

For the period ended 5 October 2013 the ratio of net debt 
excluding lease financing to EBITDA before exceptional items 
reduced to 5.3 times (2012: 5.6 times). It is our intention to reduce 
this ratio to below 5.0 times, principally through EBITDA growth 
generated from our new-build investment programme.

Pensions 
Our final salary pension scheme at the year end showed a deficit 
of £5.1 million before tax (2012: £24.5 million).

Taxation
The underlying rate of taxation (before exceptional items) of 20.8% in 
2013 is below the standard rate of corporation tax of 23.5% primarily 
due to credits in respect of deferred tax on property. 

The underlying tax rate has increased by 0.4% from 20.4% in 2012. 

Exceptional items 
There are net exceptional charges of £11.4 million after tax. This 
primarily reflects reorganisation and non-core estate disposal costs 
of £10.8 million relating to the restructuring of our operations across 
the Group. The reorganisation is expected to generate around £3-4 
million of annual underlying cost savings. Additionally there is an 
exceptional charge of £4.9 million in respect of the write-off of various 
items of cellar equipment no longer in use in the business, an 
exceptional charge of £6.4 million in respect of the recognition of the 
provision for repayment of refunds received relating to the Rank 
case, and an exceptional gain of £3.5 million in respect of the 
mark-to-market movement in the fair value of certain interest rate 
swaps. There is an exceptional tax credit of £7.2 million, of which 
£4.1 million relates to the items described above and £3.1 million 
relates to deferred tax in respect of the change in the rate of 
corporation tax.

KPis
New-builds completed
2013
2012
2011
A significant element of our growth comes from the 
development of new pub-restaurants. The number we open 
has a significant impact on growth and cash flow; the 
targets for 2014 and 2015 are described on page 10.

25

22

19

CROCCE
2013
2012
2011

10.8%

10.3%

9.6%

Return on capital is a key driver of shareholder value and 
reflects progress made on investments, disposals, and the 
profitability of our core estate.

Free Cash Flow
2013
2012
2011

£85.6m

£92.4m

£112.6m

Free Cash Flow is a measure of cash generated and 
available to reinvest in the business; to return to 
shareholders in the form of dividends; and to repay debt.

Earnings Per Ordinary Share1
2013
2012
2011

12.3p
12.3p

11.2p

EPS is a widely used profitability and valuation measure.

RIGHTHAND FIGURES 4 NUDGES

Employee satisfaction
2013
2012
2011 No survey carried out
We are a service business and we recognise that high 
employee satisfaction leads to better customer satisfaction 
and enhances our reputation when recruiting new people.

81%

77%

CO2 emissions per £100,000 of turnover
2013
2012
2011
We set CO2 emissions targets as part of our environmental 
responsibilities and to better manage energy usage against a 
background of rising energy costs and taxes, including the 
Carbon Levy.

13.64

12.77

14.82

Waste recycling %
2013
2012
2011

79.1%

73.1%

75.7%

We target increased levels of recycling as part of our 
environmental responsibilities and to reduce costs and levies.

1Before exceptional items

17 

Strategic ReportMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013cOrPOraTe sOcial resPOnsibiliTy

at Marston’s, corporate social responsibility (csr) is more than just being 
aware of our impact on the environment. it is also about the development 
of our employees, how we relate to our customers, and our relationships 
with suppliers and the local communities that we serve.

Corporate Responsibility Report
Marston’s approach on CSR is overseen by the Corporate Social 
Responsibility Committee chaired by the Corporate Risk Director. 
The Committee has responsibility for the implementation of the 
CSR agenda and reports progress to the Board.

Our Corporate Responsibility Report is available for download at 
www.marstons.co.uk

Employees are Marston’s most vital ingredient

•	 Marston’s has around 13,000 employees in its pubs, brewery 

operations and head office.

•	 53% of our employees are female.
•	 35% of all our managers in pubs, brewing and head office  

are women.

•	 More than half of our employees work flexible hours, typically 

around other work commitments, study and to care for 
family.

•	 Half of our employees are under the age of 25 – for many 

working at Marston’s is their first job.

•	 Our youngest employee is 16 years old and our oldest is  

86 years old.

Gender diversity
Gender diversity

■ Women
■ Men

s
e
e
y
o
p
m
e

l

f

o

r
e
b
m
u
N

37

10

27

9
1

8

13,062

6,862

6,200

Directors

Senior
managers

Total
employees

We want to give all our employees the opportunity to make 
progress at Marston’s. We take pride in the fact that many of our 
licensed retail managers, area managers and senior managers 
started their careers working in our pubs, or joined us straight 
from school or university. The diversity of our business allows 
employees to move between different roles and trading activities.

New jobs:
In 2013 we created over 1,000 jobs through our new-build pub 
programme, providing many job opportunities for the local 
communities within which our pubs are built, as well as 
development opportunities for existing employees.

Employees in our pubs
The Marston’s Pub Career Path is our key development tool to 
support and encourage new pub-based employees to gain the 
skills required to do their jobs. It provides a job specific induction 
programme, as well as e-learning modules covering licensing, 
food safety, health and safety, fire awareness and first aid. From 
October 2013 our fire marshal training has also moved online. 

18 

The Marston’s Pub Career Path also provides:
•	 The Chef Development Programme which provides and 
supports the development of our kitchen teams into Line 
Chefs, Second Chefs and Head Chefs.

•	 The Keyholder Development Programme for our front-of-house 
teams which develops supervisors and assistant managers.
•	 The Deputy Manager Programme which develops future 

licensed retail managers.
•	 Apprenticeship opportunities.

This year our managers and team members undertook over 
32,000 online courses, plus a further 2,700 classroom-based 
courses covering topics such as team management, fire marshal 
training and financial skills.

Employee Engagement:
The 2012 Employee Engagement Survey – which covers all 
employees, including those in pubs – confirmed the huge 
commitment of our staff and their support for the Company. As 
a result of the survey action was taken to improve our reward 
and incentive programmes, including our long service awards, 
as well as the enhancement of our internal communication 
through newsletters.

“We are committed to creating real jobs within the 
hospitality and leisure industry. Our Pub Career Path 
ensures clear routes for progression are visible to 
everyone, and demonstrates how employees can 
develop within the business. Our experienced People 
Development Team is there to give our people the 
skills and confidence needed in our business.”
Cheryl Evans – Human Resources Director – Pub Operations

Graduates and school leavers
We run a Corporate Graduate Programme providing opportunities 
across our head office and brewing and logistics operations. This 
summer we launched a Pub Graduate Programme to provide 
opportunities to those who have recently completed a degree and 
are interested in running their own pub business. We recognise 
the importance of supporting work experience initiatives and 
provide opportunities for people to gain a practical insight into 
different areas across the business. In 2014 we will be launching a 
School Leavers programme designed specifically to support 
those leaving school looking for their first opportunity to gain 
skills, learn and complete a qualification at work.

“Modern apprenticeships are valuable to our 
employees and to the business. We have been able to 
map our internal development programmes across to 
apprenticeships so that as employees work through 
Keyholder and Chef Development Programmes they 
also complete an apprenticeship qualification.”
Suzanne Harrison – Head of People Development – Destination

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013 
 
In the year ahead we will be expanding the opportunities available to 
young people through the launch of a new School Leavers programme. 
The aim of the programme is to provide apprenticeship opportunities 
for under 18s and a ‘Junior Managers’ scheme for those over 18. This 
scheme will focus on the ongoing development of school/college 
leavers who do not intend to go to university but instead wish to 
develop and gain qualifications in a practical work environment. 

“The steps we take to develop our under 25s are an 
important part of our talent development strategy, 
and will provide Marston’s with future talent capable 
of supervisory and management roles needed to 
support our continued growth strategy.”
Cheryl Evans, Human Resources Director – Pub Operations

giving young people a solid start to their working life
With over half of our employees below the age of 25 we consider it our 
responsibility to enhance the skills of these individuals and provide 
them with the chance to build a career. We do this through our head 
office development programmes and the Marston’s Pub Career Path.
In the last three years we have had over 1,000 employees complete a 
Modern Apprenticeship/NVQ and currently have over 400 working to 
complete these qualifications. Employees are able to complete Modern 
Apprenticeships or Advanced Modern Apprenticeships in a range  
of areas including customer service, team leading and food and  
drink service.
We offer apprenticeships to all pub employees, no matter what their 
age or current role and we work in partnership with Babcock Training 
to deliver this comprehensive training programme. Apprenticeships are 
not exclusive to head office and pub employees but are also available 
to our franchisees, lessees and tenants – and their teams too. 
We promote Modern Apprenticeship availability and take part in the 
annual Apprenticeship week. Suzanne Harrison, our Head of People 
Development (Destination), is an East Midlands Apprenticeship 
Ambassador and is involved in supporting the continued development 
of apprenticeships within the UK.
Graduate development programmes have been part of our business 
for well over 20 years. Through those programmes we have developed 
many aspiring managers within our business, who now work in a wide 
variety of areas in the business including Operations, Estates, HR, 
Production and Finance. Training is delivered through structured 
development programmes, including a CMI level 5 qualification, and 
further education training. All this is supported by our coaching and 
mentoring programmes. In Summer 2013 we enhanced our graduate 
offer through the launch of our first Pub Graduate programme. This is 
an extension to our Pub Career Path that aims to develop future pub 
managers and, in the longer term, trainee Area Operations Managers.
Supporting the development of young people is not exclusive to our 
employees; we recognise our role in providing opportunities through 
work experience within our head office. Recently we have been 
involved in the ‘Feeding Britain’s Future’ initiative providing real 
experience for those looking to develop their skills in a practical 
workplace environment. Longer-term placements are also available to 
university students looking for a year in industry.

Management development
We offer a wide range of structured career development 
opportunities ensuring that employees have the opportunity to 
develop their careers.

Marston’s achieved an industry first in being accredited to run the 
British Institute of Innkeeping’s multi-site retail management 
course. The aim of this training is to provide our Area Operations 
Managers with the professional skills necessary to support our 
tenants in developing their own businesses.

We run a wide range of professional development programmes 
accredited by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). 
Marston’s has run over 200 CMI courses in the last four years for 
employees, who have achieved qualifications ranging from 
introductory Level 2 awards through to the academically 
demanding Level 5 programmes. We also launched the CMI 
coaching and mentoring qualification in order to enhance and 
expand these skills within our business. 

Within our head office we offer a range of professional qualifications 
including accounting (CIMA), surveying (RICS), marketing (CIM)  
and personnel (CIPD) as well as degree and diploma programmes. 
This year within our brewery operations we sponsored Brewing 
Diplomas, Master Brewing qualifications, HGV and Chartered 
Institute of Logistics and Transport programmes.

19 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013Strategic ReportcOrPOraTe sOcial resPOnsibiliTy ContinuEd

here are a few examples of community events which just 
one of our breweries, Jennings, has been involved with 
this year:

Jennings Family Fun Day – this 
annual charity event held at the brewery 
in Cockermouth receives fantastic 
support from the local community, who 
come along and join in the fun on the 
day and take a tour of the brewery. This 
year we raised £1,000 for the Motor 
Neurone Disease Association North  
& West Cumbria branch.

The World’s Biggest Liar 
Competition – the internationally 
renowned contest dates back to the 
19th Century and is held at the Bridge 
Inn, Santon Bridge, Cumbria. The 
most outrageous tales are celebrated 
in one of the most original 
competitions of all time. Last year’s 
winner Jack Harvey claimed that he 
had studied the genetics of a 
Cumbrian person and found them  
to be 2% badger, as observed by the 
way they eat their food and other 
mannerisms… definitely not true! 

Keswick Jazz Festival – Jennings 
was once again the sponsor of the 
22nd Jennings Keswick Jazz Festival in 
May. Despite the rain there were plenty 
of visitors who could enjoy some 
Jennings real ales whilst listening to the 
many worldwide jazz acts in the various 
venues around Keswick. Our Jennings 
stall was in the Market Place offering 
the visitors a sample of our Cumberland 
Ale and selling merchandise and gifts 
for them to take a taste of Jennings 
home with them.

Marston’s at the heart of the community
Much has been written about the contribution that pubs make to 
communities and to British culture – not just as places to socialise 
and celebrate but as local employers, supporters of local 
suppliers, and the hub of local sports teams. 

One of the ways we demonstrate our support for the role of pubs 
in communities is through our financial support for ‘Pub is The 
Hub’, a not-for-profit organisation specialising in the diversification 
of pub activities to provide a wider range of services and 
amenities locally, particularly in rural communities, for example, 
shops and libraries.

Many pubs are also the focus of fund raising for charities, and 
Marston’s is involved in two directly funded bodies – the 
Marston’s Employee Charity Fund and the MIT Charitable Trust. 
Both involve match funding from Marston’s PLC and contributions 
from employees which totalled over £40,000 in 2013.

Active since 1980, the Charity Fund provides equipment for 
hospitals, schools and individuals with special needs, with  
a preference for donating smaller items more often rather than 
large items. The Committee comprises current and retired 
employees and recent donations include an electric wheelchair,  
a computerised display for training brain-damage victims,  
a blood oximeter and a tilting chair for stroke victims. 

The MIT Charitable Trust helps to fund causes promoted in local 
pubs, adding to money raised by customers.

Our breweries are also important in the context of their 
communities. As with pubs, they contribute in particular to rural 
employment – the vast majority of the hops and barley we use in 
brewing is sourced in the UK. Our brewing strategy places a 
premium on being local with our breweries being involved in a 
wide range of local events across the country. Examples include 

20 

sponsorship of the New Forest Show (Ringwood); music 
sponsorship of Metal 2 The Masses (Hobgoblin); the Banks’s 
Brewery 10k run in Wolverhampton; The Jennings River Ride and 
Jennings Brewery Charity Fun Day supporting MNDA; and the 
‘Tour de Marston’s’ cycle ride with the Steve Bull Foundation 
helping terminally ill children.

Marston’s responsibility in relation to alcohol
Marston’s recognises that excessive drinking can be harmful to 
health and has social consequences. There is a heightened level of 
responsibility expected of us because we brew beer and sell alcohol.

We are committed to the responsible retailing of alcohol and 
supportive of a range of measures, including education, to 
encourage the responsible consumption of alcohol.

Reduction in alcohol strength
In 2013 we reduced the ABV (alcoholic content) of several 
of our key brands:
•	 Marston’s Pedigree (bottled) – from 5.0% to 4.5%
•	 Boondoggle – from 5.0% to 4.4%
•	 Old Thumper – from 5.6% to 5.1%

These reductions demonstrate that our undertakings within the 
Government’s Public Health Responsibility Deal (see 
responsibilitydeal.dh.co.uk) to reduce alcohol units, are backed 
up by effective actions.

How our beers are marketed
Marston’s is a signatory to the Portman Code which lays down 
minimum expected standards for alcohol marketing practices. 
The full Code can be read at www.portmangroup.org.uk 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013Informing our customers
Alcohol is consumed responsibly by millions of people in the UK, 
however we recognise that more can be done to protect those at 
risk from alcohol. Marston’s has been a consistent supporter of 
Drinkaware, an industry backed Trust, since its inception.

Drinkaware aims to influence consumers’ drinking through a 
variety of media: 
•	 advertising campaign – “why let good times go bad”,
•	 the Drinkaware website www.drinkaware.co.uk, including the 

alcohol unit tracking tool MyDrinkaware, and

•	 support for other charities working with young people and 

parents, and sponsoring educational programmes.

Our bottled and canned beers are labelled with unit content,  
UK Health Department limit guidelines and information  
on Drinkaware.

Licensing objectives and the law
Government regulation of the pub industry includes a requirement 
to meet several licensing objectives:
•	 the prevention of crime and disorder,
•	 public safety,
•	 prevention of public nuisance, and
•	 the protection of children from harm.

In Scotland there is a further objective:
•	 protecting and improving public health.

All licensees and key operational management are expected  
to understand and promote these objectives in the course  
of business.

Marston’s responsibilities in pubs
•	 All of our managed pubs operate Challenge 21. This year over 

300,000 challenges were made by our staff requesting 
acceptable proof of age.

•	 We use an independent test purchase service to check 

compliance with the law on underage drinking.

•	 All our retail staff complete e-learning training on drug and 
alcohol abuse and the identification of underage drinkers.

•	 None of our pubs operate 24 hour licences.
•	 We expect our managers to play an active part in local 

Pubwatch and Best Bar None initiatives.

•	 Our tenants and lessees are supported by a dedicated hotline 

regarding licensing matters.

“Marston’s strong adherence to the licensing 
objectives is key to our reputation. Protection against 
alcohol harm is a cornerstone within our staff training, 
which we will continue to test internally in order that 
this remains the highest priority.”
Steve Oliver – Operations Director – Destination

How Marston’s encourages healthy eating
Growth in the informal dining market is a key objective of our 
strategy. We believe that our responsibility in relation to healthy 
eating is satisfied through the provision of options that allow  
our customers to make healthier choices and through the 
commitments we have made through the Public Health 
Responsibility Deal.

Public Health Responsibility Deal and food: 
•	

In 2013 we reduced salt in our meals by 15% across 65%  
of our existing ingredients compared to 2010.

•	 Our meals do not contain artificial trans-fats or hydrogenated 

fat and oils.

•	 All new products meet salt targets set by the Public Health 

Responsibility Deal.

•	 No salt is added to chips.

A full list of Marston’s commitments can be seen at  
https://responsibilitydeal.dh.gov.uk/

And, in addition: 
•	 Sausages are grilled rather than fried.
•	 All meals are free from genetically modified ingredients and 

monosodium glutamate.

•	 We introduced gluten free bread in 2013, and in 2014 we will 
review allergen information further, including intolerance 
causing products.

We have offered lower calorie options for some years, including  
a below 500 calorie list of menu items, and will keep the further 
provision of calorie information under review. The number of 
calorie counted dishes served with 500 calories or below was 
approximately 0.5 million (up 66% on last year). 

In total we spent £83 million on food in 2013. All our food 
suppliers are either British Retail Consortium approved, complete 
a self-audit or are audited independently. We have approximately 
120 food suppliers delivering 900 lines of food. In 2013 Marston’s 
won the MIDAS award (for menu innovation and development) for 
Best Dessert Menu and Best Neighbourhood Pub Menu. 

“Marston’s has responded to increasing demand 
for information on the ingredients in our meals, 
particularly regarding salt content and calories. We 
are satisfied that our menus clearly indicate the more 
healthy options which customers can select.”
Ruth Powell – Group Compliance Manager for Food and Licensing

Marston’s responsibility for safety
The health and safety of our employees, customers and the 
general public is treated with the utmost importance. Information 
on accident rates, compliance and audit scores is reviewed by  
the Board for all areas of the business. A description of our  
health and safety systems together with our policy is available  
at www.marstons.co.uk

We operate sophisticated electronic systems for incident 
recording, accident analysis and auditing, in order to better 
understand the nature of accidents occurring and to take the 
actions necessary to avoid them. For example this year we 
implemented a driver telematics system which tracks and 
measures how safely our drivers are operating in our commercial 
vehicles. The system has already contributed to an improvement 
in driver behaviour.

21 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013Strategic ReportcOrPOraTe sOcial resPOnsibiliTy ContinuEd

Our managed pubs are subject to an independent bi-annual 
external audit of hygiene, health and safety which impacts upon 
the evaluation of our licensed retail managers’ performance. In 
total Charnwood Hygiene Associates carry out around 1,200 of 
these safety audits each year.

The safe operation of our pubs depends upon safety training, 
documented safety instructions, safe design and engineering, and 
established routines of safety inspection. All new staff are trained 
from the outset to ensure that a high degree of awareness of 
safety is sustained.

The operators of our tenanted, leased and franchised pubs are 
themselves primarily responsible for health and safety within their 
pubs. However, Marston’s provides documentation and training 
on health and safety policy to help them carry out these 
responsibilities effectively.

Marston’s Ready to Let (meeting our compliance 
obligations as a landlord):
Last year we introduced the Ready to Let policy into our 
franchised, tenanted and leased pubs. Ready to Let is intended 
to ensure that our pubs are legally compliant upon the 
commencement of a new agreement and that living areas 
provide suitable accommodation. 

This process forms part of the Marston’s Code of Practice.  
We completed over 250 Ready to Let projects in 2013.

Energy usage:
Marston’s has been investing for several years in engineering 
solutions for reducing electricity usage. In 2013 we reduced 
electricity usage in our managed pubs by 6% through initiatives 
including:
•	 LED lighting for all front-of-house areas in our estate including 
new pub-restaurants, major refurbishments and Pitcher & 
Piano;

•	 the use of outside ambient air to cool our cellars rather than 

air conditioning;
•	 voltage optimisation;
•	 heating control systems; and
•	 heat recovery systems.

In addition to engineering solutions we have continued our Take 
Control campaign to encourage our pub managers to actively 
seek to reduce energy consumption. The Take Control 
programmes include monitoring of performance, reporting usage 
against targets, the preparation and dissemination of operating 
procedures and practices to control energy use, awareness 
raising activities and training.

Fuel Type

Electricity & gas
Petrol & diesel
Refrigerants (brewery)

Total

CO2e tonnes

101,809
7,399
118

109,326

Each of our breweries has a comprehensive quality control 
system, and all of our beers are tested to ensure they are of 
high quality. Our breweries are also audited by some of the 
supermarkets which we supply to. The breweries at 
Wolverhampton and Burton upon Trent are Grade A certified by 
the British Retail Consortium – the highest quality grade available. 

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Intensity Ratio:

CO2e tonnes per  
£100,000 of turnover

2013

2012

2011

14.82

12.77

13.64

“Our high audit scores demonstrate that safety is a 
key priority for us. However, we are not complacent 
and we will continue to strive for improvement. Our 
objective is to reduce accident and hygiene risks to 
the lowest level.”
John Beerjeraz – Group Health and Safety Manager

How Marston’s cares for the environment
Environmental considerations are important to Marston’s, not 
least because brewing uses natural ingredients: water, barley, 
yeast, hops; and these contribute significantly to the distinctive 
character of our beers.

A comprehensive description of our environmental performance  
is included within our Corporate Responsibility Report which is 
available at www.marstons.co.uk

Note that:
•	 We have reported on all the measured emissions sources 

required under The Companies Act 2006 (Strategic Report and 
Directors’ Report) Regulations 2013.

•	 Data collected is in respect of the year ended 31 March 2013, 
being the period for which our carbon emissions are reported 
under the Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency 
Scheme.

•	 Conversion factors for electricity, gas and fuel are those published 

by the Carbon Trust and Defra in 2013.

•	 Refrigerant fugitive emissions across our pub estate are not 

currently measured.

•	 Refrigerant fugitive emissions of R417a (non-ozone depleting HFC) 
from our breweries are not included in the total above due to the 
lack of a published conversion factor to tonnes of CO2.

22 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013The increase in the CO2e tonnes per £100,000 of turnover to 
14.82 in 2013 is as a result of a combination of factors:
•	

last winter was unusually harsh thereby increasing the amount 
of gas consumed;

•	 an increased number of retail and franchise agreements, under 

which Marston’s is responsible for the energy supply; and

•	 growth in food sales.

Water
During the year we have rolled out water management systems  
in the toilets of all of our managed pubs (PHS Flushwiser and 
Flowsaver); the full-year effect of this has yet to be determined. 
However, early indications are that the systems have significantly 
reduced water wastage.

Waste recycling
Our breweries recycle approximately 98% of waste, including 
used malt and hops being recycled as animal feed. We also 
dispose of other waste such as glass, metals, cardboard, paper 
and polythene through recycling contractors.

The majority of our managed and franchised pubs recycle dry 
waste, including glass and packaging. Last year we ran a pilot 
scheme with 66 of our managed pubs to recycle food waste and 
this has now grown to 290 pubs. Food waste is delivered to an 
anaerobic digestion plant that produces methane in order to 
generate power. Marston’s has targeted itself with increasing the 
total kitchen waste recycled from managed pubs to 80% by 2015.

Marston’s is a signatory to WRAP’s Food and Hospitality 
Agreement which aims to reduce packaging waste in the 
hospitality industry and at the same time increase food recycling 
to 70% by 2015. 

“Improving the environmental performance of our 
pubs is very much about engineering the right 
solutions for the premises. Our new-build and 
refurbishment programmes put us in an excellent 
position to design in these improvements from the 
outset. This year we are reviewing the design lessons 
learnt in our pubs to determine whether we can 
implement similar energy control measures in our 
breweries and depots.”
Andy Kershaw – Group Facilities Manager

How Marston’s ethically sources its supplies
Marston’s seeks to work with suppliers who also adopt an ethical 
approach to human rights, working conditions and the 
environment in line with our own values:
•	

in 2012/13 we purchased 575 tonnes of fish secured from 
sustainable and ethical sources;

•	 we used 1.5 million litres of Prep High Performance cooking oil 
(73% of which has been recovered by our drays and recycled  
as transport fuel), and which supports the production of 
sustainable palm oil via the Green Palm trading programme; and
•	 we source 5,600 tonnes of chips from a supplier who uses the 
potato remnants for animal feed, fertiliser and renewable energy.

Current examples of our suppliers’ ethical approach: 
DS Smith – supplier of packaging used by our delivery 
operations – makes a major contribution to conserving resources 
and reducing landfill waste through its position as the leading UK 
collector of waste paper for recycling and as the UK’s largest 
producer of recycled paper.

The corrugated and plastic packaging products are made by  
DS Smith from recycled raw materials wherever it is practicable.  
It is fully recyclable and approximately 80% of all corrugated 
packaging used in the UK is again recycled.

Leisurebench – supplier of our wooden garden furniture – is a 
member of the Leisure and Outdoor Furniture Association and 
participates in the ‘Made Aware’ scheme. This involves tracing 
timber sources and putting documentation in place to prove all 
timber used is from managed and sustainable forestry. Many of 
the products are FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified.

100% of Leisurebench’s packaging used for Marston’s products is 
compressed and recycled.

“Our customers have a right to expect that our supply 
chain is founded on ethical principles and that 
Marston’s has taken all reasonable steps to 
accomplish this; our Group buying and tendering 
arrangements are designed to achieve this by 
ensuring we have a good knowledge of our suppliers’ 
working practices, care for the environment and 
policies on sourcing sustainable natural resources.”
Colin MacKenzie – Group Purchasing Manager

23 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013Strategic ReportPrinciPal risKs anD UncerTainTies

Marston’s adopts a formal risk identification and management 
process designed to ensure that risks are properly identified, 
prioritised, evaluated and mitigated to the extent that is possible. 
risk management is embedded in the operations of the business.

Business operations maintain risk registers compiled and monitored by the Corporate Risk  
Director. The Audit Committee reports to the Board on the risk management process,  
including on matters of internal audit and the evaluation of potential impacts, both financial  
and reputational.

The following risks are, in the opinion of the Board, the principal risks which affect Marston’s.  
It is not intended to be a complete analysis of all risks and may change over time.

economic
Factor
•	 Future economic uncertainty: we rely upon the spending capacity of our customers. 
The basic cost of living could continue to increase at a faster rate than incomes. 

Risk
•	 The outlook for economic growth in the UK has improved but remains low and a fall in 

consumer confidence may impact upon our sales, and our investment plans.

Impact
•	 Customers could spend less on our products and services.
•	 Forecasting and investment returns may become more uncertain.
Strategic objective
•	 Maximise the return on investment.
•	 Pub disposal programme.
•	
•	 Reduction in leverage.

Investment in new pub-restaurants.

Increased competition for development sites for building new pub-restaurants.

Investment plans do not meet return targets.

investment plans
Factor
•	
Risk
•	
•	 A reduction in the availability of quality sites for investment.
Impact
•	 The programme of building new pub-restaurants may be slowed.
•	 Corporate growth targets may not be met.
Strategic objective
•	 Maximise profit growth and development of a high value property estate.

financial covenants
Factor
•	 Lenders expect that Marston’s can repay capital and interest on time and operate 

within stated covenants.

Risk
•	 Breach of financial covenants. 
Impact
•	 Breach of covenants could result in additional financial operating restrictions being 

imposed on the business.

•	 Potential loss of reputation amongst investors.
Strategic objective
•	 Financial security.
•	 Protect reputation.
•	 Business financed at rates of interest that allow profit to be generated to provide  

further growth.

24 

Mitigation

•	 Maintaining value-for-money 

consumer proposition.

•	 Customer choice, flexible pricing 

options. 

•	 Competitive offering. 
•	 High standards of service and quality.
•	 Consumer trends analysis supports 
the view that eating out remains 
resilient despite difficult economic 
conditions.

•	 Range of pub brands and formats  
to meet customer expectations.
‘F-Plan’.

•	

Mitigation

•	

In-house property development team 
with proven experience in delivering 
new-build projects.

•	 Expert understanding of planning 

legislation. 
In-depth knowledge of site availability.

•	
•	 Maintain pipeline of new sites for 

future years.

Mitigation

•	 Sophisticated accounting systems.
•	 Constant monitoring of financial ratios.
•	 Company strategy, business plans, 

acquisitions and project development 
built upon the preservation of 
corporate financial covenants.
•	 Annual audit by external Auditors. 
•	 Flexibility to transfer pubs between 
banking and securitisation groups.

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013accounting controls
Factor
•	 The financial systems of the Group must handle large numbers of transactions securely 

and ensure that transactions are properly recorded.

Risk
•	 Breakdown of internal accounting controls leading to material financial misstatement.
Impact
•	 Potential loss of investor confidence. 
•	 Reputational damage may occur.
•	 Some financial loss.
Strategic objective
•	 Safeguard the assets of the business.
•	 Secure investor confidence. 

information technology
Factor
•	 Marston’s is heavily reliant upon IT networks to process transactions, conduct 

operations at ground level and report on results.

Risk
•	 External interference in the computer system (cyber risk). 
•	 Compliance with the Digital Economy Act 2010 and security of data.
•	 Disaster recovery of backed up data taking longer than four hours. 
Impact
•	 Significant disruption could be caused to the daily trading operations of the Group. 
Strategic objective
•	 A stable IT environment that allows the Group to conduct its operations with a high 

degree of efficiency and speed without disruption.

•	 Protect sensitive data, particularly that which is commercially damaging if openly 

available.

Increased demand for high calibre people, particularly licensees.

People
Factor
•	
Risk
•	 Failure to attract and retain the best people. 
Impact
•	 Marston’s may not meet its financial targets. 
Strategic objective
•	 A stable and experienced employee base will allow the Group to better achieve its 

strategic priorities.

regulatory
Factor
•	 The Group is subject to many different areas of regulation due to the diversity of its 

operations. Significant areas include alcohol retailing, licensing, food hygiene, health 
and safety, competition law, environment and property law.

Risk
•	 There is a risk that more regulation may significantly affect our business operations.
Impact
•	
•	 Further regulation could restrict our licensees in operating their pubs in a sustainable 

Increase in taxation could reduce profitability.

manner.

Strategic objective
•	 Operating a sustainable and profitable business model.

Mitigation

•	 Sophisticated accounting systems 

and controls.

•	 Thorough year-end audit.
•	 Regular management accounts by 

operating area. 

•	 Detailed annual budgets and 

forecasts.

•	 Segregation of duties.
•	 Levels of authority over the approval 

process for transactions.

•	 Well established IT systems in pubs 

and in head office.

Mitigation

•	 Anti-virus and firewall protection.
•	 Constant vigilance and monitoring 

threats posed by hacking, breach of 
access controls and viruses.

•	 Physical protection of servers and 

networks.

•	 Backup procedures and continual 

monitoring regarding the integrity of 
data and rehearsal of recovery 
procedures.

•	 Business continuity plans.
•	 Access controls/passwords.

Mitigation

•	 Comprehensive induction and training 

programmes.

•	 Regular capability reviews and 
development programmes.

•	 Career path supported.
•	 An ongoing programme of 

engagement surveys with employees.
•	 Range of flexible agreements with our 

tenants and franchisees.

Mitigation

•	 Training and monitoring programmes 

for all our pub operators.

•	 External auditing of compliance to 

current legislation including health and 
safety, and food safety.

•	 Compliance Committee to register 
and monitor legal compliance.

•	 Active consultation with Government, 

trade bodies and the BBPA.

•	 Our Code of Practice developed to 
bring greater transparency to the 
relationship with our tenants.
•	 Comprehensive health and safety 

management system.

25 

Strategic ReportMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013DirecTOrs

Roger Devlin
Chairman

Ralph Findlay
Chief Executive Officer

Andrew Andrea
Chief Financial Officer

Robin Hodgson
The Lord Hodgson  
of Astley Abbotts CBE  
Non-executive Director

Rosalind Cuschieri
Non-executive Director

Robin Rowland

Peter Dalzell

Neil Goulden

Nick Backhouse

Anne-Marie Brennan

Non-executive Director

Managing Director 

Non-executive Director

Non-executive Director

Company Secretary

Marston’s Inns  

and Taverns

Name

Position

Length of service on Board  
(as at 5/10/2013)

Independent

Public 
company 
experience

Operational 
experience

Retail 

experience

Finance 

experience

Government/

regulatory 

experience

Curriculum Vitae

Roger Devlin

Chairman

1 month

Ralph Findlay

Chief Executive Officer

17 years

Andrew Andrea

Chief Financial Officer

4 years and 6 months

Robin Hodgson

Non-executive Director

11 years

Rosalind Cuschieri

Non-executive Director

7 years

Robin Rowland

Non-executive Director

3 years and 1 month

Peter Dalzell

Managing Director of 
Marston’s Inns
and Taverns

1 year

Neil Goulden

Non-executive Director

5 years and 6 months

Nick Backhouse

Non-executive Director

1 year and 8 months

Anne-Marie Brennan

Company Secretary

26 

✓

–

–

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•	 Chairman of Gamesys, SIS and Porthaven Nursing Homes

•	 Independent Non-executive Director of the Football Association

•	 Previously a Non-executive Director of National Express and RPS Group

•	 Appointed to the Board as Finance Director in 1996 becoming CEO in 2001

•	 Qualified Chartered Accountant and Treasurer

•	 Previous roles held at Geest Plc and Bass Plc

•	 Joined the Company in 2002

•	 Qualified Chartered Accountant

•	 Previous roles held at Guinness Brewing Worldwide and Bass Brewers Limited

•	 Senior Independent Non-executive Director

•	 Chairman of Nova Capital Limited and RFIB Group Limited

•	 Director of Johnson Brothers & Co Limited

•	 Chief Executive of Genius Foods Limited

•	 Former Commercial Director of Warburtons Limited

•	 Previously responsible for off-trade marketing at Scottish & Newcastle Plc

•	 Chief Executive of YO! Sushi Limited

•	 Supervisory Board Non-executive Director at Caffe Nero Group Limited

•	 Previous roles held at City Centre Restaurants Plc and Scottish & Newcastle Plc

•	 Joined the Company in 1995 following roles as a licensee and pub company operator

•	 Previously Operations Director for Marston’s Inns and Taverns

•	 Chairman of MIT Charitable Trust

•	 Chairman of The Responsible Gambling Trust and Access Sport

•	 Member of The Low Pay Commission

•	 Previous roles at Gala Coral Group, Compass Group Plc and Chef & Brewer

•	 Senior Independent Director of Guardian Media Group plc

•	 Qualified Chartered Accountant

•	 Previous senior management positions in the pub, leisure and financial sectors

•	 Appointed Company Secretary in 2004

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013Roger Devlin

Chairman

Ralph Findlay

Chief Executive Officer

Andrew Andrea

Chief Financial Officer

Rosalind Cuschieri

Non-executive Director

Robin Rowland
Non-executive Director

Robin Hodgson

The Lord Hodgson  

of Astley Abbotts CBE  

Non-executive Director

Peter Dalzell
Managing Director 
Marston’s Inns  
and Taverns

Neil Goulden
Non-executive Director

Nick Backhouse
Non-executive Director

Anne-Marie Brennan
Company Secretary

Name

Position

(as at 5/10/2013)

Independent

Length of service on Board  

Public 

company 

experience

Operational 

experience

Retail 
experience

Finance 
experience

Government/
regulatory 
experience

Curriculum Vitae

Roger Devlin

Chairman

1 month

Ralph Findlay

Chief Executive Officer

17 years

Andrew Andrea

Chief Financial Officer

4 years and 6 months

Robin Hodgson

Non-executive Director

11 years

Rosalind Cuschieri

Non-executive Director

7 years

Robin Rowland

Non-executive Director

3 years and 1 month

Peter Dalzell

Managing Director of 

1 year

Marston’s Inns

and Taverns

Neil Goulden

Non-executive Director

5 years and 6 months

Nick Backhouse

Non-executive Director

1 year and 8 months

Anne-Marie Brennan

Company Secretary

✓

–

–

✓

✓

✓

–

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–

–

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–

–

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–

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–

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–

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•	 Chairman of Gamesys, SIS and Porthaven Nursing Homes
•	 Independent Non-executive Director of the Football Association
•	 Previously a Non-executive Director of National Express and RPS Group

•	 Appointed to the Board as Finance Director in 1996 becoming CEO in 2001
•	 Qualified Chartered Accountant and Treasurer
•	 Previous roles held at Geest Plc and Bass Plc

•	 Joined the Company in 2002
•	 Qualified Chartered Accountant
•	 Previous roles held at Guinness Brewing Worldwide and Bass Brewers Limited

•	 Senior Independent Non-executive Director
•	 Chairman of Nova Capital Limited and RFIB Group Limited
•	 Director of Johnson Brothers & Co Limited

•	 Chief Executive of Genius Foods Limited
•	 Former Commercial Director of Warburtons Limited
•	 Previously responsible for off-trade marketing at Scottish & Newcastle Plc

•	 Chief Executive of YO! Sushi Limited
•	 Supervisory Board Non-executive Director at Caffe Nero Group Limited
•	 Previous roles held at City Centre Restaurants Plc and Scottish & Newcastle Plc

•	 Joined the Company in 1995 following roles as a licensee and pub company operator
•	 Previously Operations Director for Marston’s Inns and Taverns
•	 Chairman of MIT Charitable Trust

•	 Chairman of The Responsible Gambling Trust and Access Sport
•	 Member of The Low Pay Commission
•	 Previous roles at Gala Coral Group, Compass Group Plc and Chef & Brewer

•	 Senior Independent Director of Guardian Media Group plc
•	 Qualified Chartered Accountant
•	 Previous senior management positions in the pub, leisure and financial sectors

•	 Appointed Company Secretary in 2004

27 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013GovernanceDIRECTORS’ REPORT FOR MARSTON’S PLC 
(Company Registration Number 31461)

The Directors present their report and audited financial 
statements of the Group for the period ended 5 October 2013.

Corporate governance statement
The corporate governance statement as required by the 
Disclosure and Transparency Rules 7.2.1 is set out on pages  
30 to 37 and is incorporated by reference into this report.

Details of employee share schemes are set out in note 26 to the 
financial statements on pages 91 to 93. Where shares are held on 
behalf of the Company’s share schemes, the trustees have 
waived their right to vote and to dividends. 

No person has any special rights of control over the Company’s 
share capital and all issued shares are fully paid.

Greenhouse gas emissions
The Strategic Report on pages 1 to 25 includes the greenhouse 
gas emissions disclosures required by The Companies Act 2006 
(Strategic Report and Directors’ Report) Regulations 2013. This 
information is incorporated by reference into (and shall be 
deemed to form part of) this report.

Under the Articles of Association, the Directors have authority to allot 
ordinary shares subject to the aggregate set at the 2013 Annual 
General Meeting (AGM). The Company was also given authority at its 
2013 AGM to make market purchases of ordinary shares up to a 
maximum number of 57,100,927 shares. Similar authority will again 
be sought from shareholders at the 2014 AGM.

Research and development
In-house research and development is undertaken alongside 
work with the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) and 
Brewing Research International.

Capital structure
Details of the Company’s issued share capital and of the movements 
during the year are shown in note 27 to the financial statements on 
page 93. The Company has one class of ordinary shares and one 
class of preference shares. On a poll vote, ordinary and preference 
shareholders have one vote for every 25 pence of nominal value of 
ordinary and preference share capital held in relation to all 
circumstances at general meetings of the Company. The issued 
nominal value of the ordinary shares and preference shares is 100% 
of the total issued nominal value of all share capital.

There are no specific restrictions on the size of a holding nor on 
the transfer of shares, which are both governed by the general 
provisions of the Articles of Association and prevailing legislation. 
The Directors are not aware of any agreements between holders 
of the Company’s shares that may result in restrictions on the 
transfer of securities or on voting rights.

Ordinary shares of 7.375p each

Shareholder

Schroders Plc 
Dimensional Fund Advisers
The Capital Group Companies, Inc
Rathbone Investment Management
Henderson Global Investors Ltd
Legal and General Investment Management Ltd

With regard to the appointment and replacement of Directors,  
the Company is governed by its Articles of Association, the UK 
Corporate Governance Code, the Companies Act 2006 and 
related legislation. The Articles may be amended by special 
resolution of the shareholders. The powers of the Directors  
are further described in the Corporate Governance Report  
on pages 30 to 37.

Change of control
There are a number of agreements that take effect after, or 
terminate upon, a change of control of the Company, such as 
commercial contracts, bank loan agreements, property lease 
arrangements and employee share plans. None of these are 
considered to be significant in terms of their likely impact on the 
business as a whole. Furthermore, the Directors are not aware  
of any agreements between the Company and its Directors or 
employees that provide for compensation for loss of office  
or employment that occurs because of a takeover bid.

Major interest in Company’s shares
Notifications of the following voting interests in the Company’s 
ordinary share capital had been received by the Company  
(in accordance with Chapter 5 of the FCA’s Disclosure and 
Transparency Rules and section 793 Companies Act 2006)  
as at 5 October 2013 and 26 November 2013:

As at  
5 October 
2013

% of voting 
rights

As at  
26 November 
2013

% of voting 
rights

37,472,188
24,350,845
20,448,705
20,356,716
19,276,419
17,971,730

6.55% 39,449,916
4.26% 24,369,840
3.57% 20,448,705
3.56% 20,480,023
3.37% 17,369,753
3.14% 17,946,982

6.89%
4.26%
3.57%
3.58%
3.03%
3.14%

28 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013The Company also discloses the following information, obtained 
from the Register of Members, for the preference shares:

opportunities within the Group. We also ensure that training, 
career development and promotion opportunities are available to 
all employees irrespective of gender, race, age or disability.

Preference shares

Shareholder 

Fiske Nominees Ltd 
Mrs HM Medlock 
George Mary Allison Ltd 
Mr PF and Dr K Knowles
Mr GAL Southall and Mr N Aston
Mrs H Michels 
Mr R Somerville

Number

34,048
10,407
5,500
4,356
2,855
2,750
2,750

Percentage of 
voting rights

45.39%
13.87%
7.33%
5.80%
3.80%
3.66%
3.66%

Dividends on ordinary shares
An interim dividend of 2.3 pence per ordinary share was paid  
on 1 July 2013. The Directors recommend a final dividend of 
4.1 pence per ordinary share to be paid on 3 February 2014 to 
shareholders on the register on 20 December 2013. This would 
bring the total dividend for 2012/13 to 6.4 pence per ordinary 
share (2012: 6.1 pence). The payment of the final dividend is 
subject to shareholder approval at the AGM. 

Preference shares
The preference shares carry the right to a fixed cumulative 
preferential dividend at the rate of 6% per annum payable in June 
and December (£5,250 per annum). Further details are given in 
note 17 on page 82.

Directors
Biographies of the Directors currently serving on the Board are 
set out on pages 26 and 27.

Changes to the Board during the year are set out in the Corporate 
Governance Report on page 32. Details of Directors’ service 
contracts are set out in the Directors’ Remuneration Report  
on pages 44 and 45. 

In accordance with the requirements of the UK Corporate 
Governance Code all Directors, with the exception of Lord 
Hodgson, will offer themselves for election or re-election at the 
AGM on 21 January 2014. Lord Hodgson has confirmed that, 
following the appointment of the new Chairman, he will retire from 
the Board following the 2014 AGM and so will not stand for 
re-election.

Insurance and indemnities
The Company maintains Directors’ and Officers’ Liability 
Insurance in respect of legal action that might be brought against 
its Directors and Officers. In accordance with the Company’s 
Articles of Association and to the extent permitted by law, the 
Company has indemnified each of its Directors and other Officers 
of the Group against certain liabilities that may be incurred as a 
result of their position within the Group. There are no indemnities 
in place for the benefit of the Auditors.

Employee Information
The average number of employees within the Group is shown in 
note 5 to the financial statements on page 74.

Full details of arrangements relating to employees are described in 
the Corporate Social Responsibility report on pages 18 to 23.

Political donations
Our policy is not to make any donations for political purposes in 
the UK or to donate to EU political parties or incur EU political 
expenditure.

Financial instruments
The disclosures required in relation to the use of financial instruments 
by the Company together with details on our treasury policy and 
management are set out in note 20 to the financial statements on 
pages 84 to 87.

Auditors
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP have indicated their willingness to 
continue as Auditors and their reappointment has been approved 
by the Audit Committee. Resolutions to reappoint them and to 
authorise the Directors to determine their remuneration will be 
proposed at the 2014 AGM.

Going concern
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. The financial position of the Group is 
described on pages 16 to 17. In addition, note 20 to the financial 
statements on pages 84 to 87 includes the Group’s objectives, 
policies and processes for managing its exposures to interest rate 
risk, foreign currency risk, counterparty risk, credit risk and 
liquidity risk. Details of the Group’s financial instruments and 
hedging activities are also provided in note 20.

The Board has a reasonable expectation that the Group and the 
Company have adequate resources to continue in operational 
existence for the foreseeable future. Accordingly, the financial 
statements set out on pages 59 to 96 and 98 to 105 have been 
prepared on the going concern basis.

Events after the balance sheet date
Full details of significant events since the balance sheet date can be 
found in note 35 of the financial statements on page 96.

Annual General Meeting
The AGM of the Company will be held at Wolverhampton 
Racecourse, Dunstall Park, Wolverhampton, WV6 0PE at 12 noon 
on 21 January 2014. The notice convening the meeting, together 
with details of the special business to be considered and 
explanatory notes for each resolution, is distributed separately to 
shareholders. It is also available at www.marstons.co.uk, where a 
copy can be viewed and downloaded. 

By order of the Board

Apart from ensuring that an individual has the ability to carry out a 
particular role, we do not discriminate in any way. We endeavour 
to retain employees if they become disabled, making reasonable 
adjustments to their role and, if necessary, look for redeployment 

Anne-Marie Brennan
Company Secretary
28 November 2013

29 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013GovernanceCORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORT
CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE ON CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Dear Shareholder

Having recently been appointed as Chairman I can see that we as a Board, and a Company, take corporate governance very seriously, 
and consider that good conduct is the basis of good performance. The Board sets the tone for the rest of the Company. 

Developing the skills of colleagues and providing opportunities for career advancement is central to our thinking. The Board also strives 
to improve its own performance. The Board evaluation is a key component of this and the assessments and outputs from this year’s 
externally facilitated evaluation will further the development of the Board and improvements to performance. 

Lord Hodgson has announced his intention to retire from the Board following the AGM and, on behalf of the Board, I would like to thank 
him for his contribution during the last 11 years, particularly as Chairman of the Remuneration Committee and as the Senior 
Independent Director. Neil Goulden will take up the role of Senior Independent Director and Chairman of the Remuneration Committee. 
Neil will remain a member of the Audit Committee but Nick Backhouse will be appointed as Chairman of that Committee. Both changes 
will be effective from the conclusion of the AGM. Further details on the Board’s composition are given at page 32.

In this report we provide an overview of our corporate governance practices, describing how the main principles of the UK Corporate 
Governance Code are applied throughout the year. Information about the Board, its members and committees, and an overview of the 
Company’s internal controls are all explained.

Roger Devlin
Chairman 
28 November 2013

30 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013Corporate Governance Statement
The Board considers it has fully complied with the main principles 
of the UK Corporate Governance Code (the “Code”) and its 
application is described here following the sections as set out in 
the Code.

•	 Public and shareholder announcements.
•	 Internal controls and the identification, monitoring and 

management of risk.

•	 Major capital expenditure, asset acquisitions and disposals. 
•	 Board and Committee membership and corporate governance 

A.  LEADERSHIP

Role of the Board
The Board is collectively responsible to shareholders for the 
long-term success of the Company. The Board has met ten times 
this year, allowing it to effectively monitor the Company’s progress 
against its strategic aims and within the risk management 
framework. A schedule of matters specifically reserved for the 
Board’s decision is in place and can be summarised as follows:
•	 Strategy, management and budget matters.
•	 Capital structure, dividend policy and financial controls.

arrangements.

•	 Remuneration of Directors and senior management.
•	 Policies, including ethics, health and safety, environmental, 

charitable and corporate social responsibility. 

Roles and responsibilities
There is a clear division of responsibility between the roles of the 
Chairman and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) which are set out in 
writing and agreed by the Board. The table below details the 
individual roles and responsibilities and also highlights the specific 
duties of our Senior Independent Director and Company Secretary:

Roles and responsibilities

Role of the Chairman

Role of the Chief Executive Officer

Roger Devlin is responsible for:
•	 Ensuring each Non-executive Director makes an effective 

contribution to the Board through debate and discussion with 
the Executive Directors.

Ralph Findlay is responsible for:
•	 The performance of the Company in line with the strategies 
and objectives established by the Board and under powers 
delegated by the Board.

•	 The effective operation, leadership and governance of the 

•	 Ensuring the Board is supplied with information relevant to its 

Board.

•	 Ensuring effectiveness of the Board.

•	 Setting the agenda, style and tone of Board discussions with a 

strategic role.

•	 Leading the Executive Directors and senior management in 
dealing with the operational requirements of the business. 

particular focus on strategic matters. 

•	 Providing clear and visible leadership in business conduct.

•	 Ensuring the Directors receive accurate, timely and clear 

information.

Role of the Senior Independent Director

Role of the Company Secretary

Lord Hodgson is responsible for:
•	 Being available to shareholders if they have concerns which 
contact through the normal channels of Chairman, CEO or 
other Executive Directors has failed to resolve or for which 
such contact is inappropriate.

•	 Acting as a ‘sounding board’ for the Chairman and as an 

Anne-Marie Brennan is responsible for:
•	 Under the direction of the Chairman, ensuring effective 

information channels within the Board and its Committees, 
and between senior management and Non-executive 
Directors, as well as facilitating induction activities for 
Directors and assisting with their development as required.

intermediary for the other Directors.

•	 Advising the Board, through the Chairman, on all governance 

•	 Leading the Non-executive Directors in their annual 

matters. 

assessment of the Chairman’s performance. 

•	 Administering the procedure under which Directors can, 

•	 If necessary, leading discussions on the appointment of  

a new Chairman.

where appropriate, obtain independent professional advice  
at the Company’s expense.

31 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013GovernanceCORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORT CONTINUED

Non-executive Directors
The Chairman, who was independent on appointment, will meet 
with the Non-executive Directors at least annually without the 
Executive Directors being present.

The Non-executive Directors are encouraged to constructively 
challenge proposals on strategy, contributing to the development 
of the strategy in the long-term. The Chairman is responsible for 
setting the correct environment and atmosphere to allow this to 
take place, particularly through his experienced chairmanship of 
meetings and control of agendas.

Board and Committee meeting attendance
We have established Committees of the Board to deal with specific 
issues under the Code, each with its own terms of reference which 
are regularly reviewed and updated. Further information on each of 
these Committees can be found on pages 34 to 53. The table below 
shows each Director’s attendance throughout the year:

Lord Hodgson has confirmed he will retire from the Board 
following the 2014 AGM. Neil Goulden will assume the role of 
Senior Independent Director and Chairman of the Remuneration 
Committee from that date. Neil’s extensive experience across a 
wide range of roles and his membership of the Low Pay 
Commission will provide a unique sense of perspective to the 
Remuneration Committee. 

Nick Backhouse will be appointed as Chairman of the Audit 
Committee in place of Neil. Nick is a Chartered Accountant and 
his extensive financial experience means he is ideally placed to 
chair the Audit Committee.

We consider all of our Non-executive Directors to be independent 
and the following chart portrays the balance of the Board as at 
the date of this report:

Balance of Executive and Non-executive Directors

Name

Board

Nomination

Audit Remuneration

11%

Andrew Andrea
Nick Backhouse
Rosalind Cuschieri
Peter Dalzell
Roger Devlin1
Ralph Findlay
Neil Goulden
Robin Hodgson
Robin Rowland
David Thompson2

10/10
8/10
10/10
10/10
1/1
10/10
10/10
10/10
10/10
9/9

–
3/4
4/4
–
1/1
4/4
4/4
4/4
4/4
3/3

–
3/4
4/4
–
–
–
4/4
4/4
–
–

–
–
4/4
–
–
–
4/4
4/4
4/4
–

1  Roger Devlin was appointed to the Board on 1 September 2013.
2  David Thompson stepped down from the Board on 31 August 2013. 

B.  EFFECTIVENESS

Board composition
As at the date of this report, our Board consists of nine Directors. 
In addition to the Chairman, Roger Devlin, there are five Non-
executive Directors and three Executive Directors. Following David 
Thompson’s indication that he intended to step down from the 
Board a sub-committee of the Board, led by Lord Hodgson, 
appointed the external agency KORN/FERRY Whitehead Mann 
who identified a suitable shortlist of candidates for the Nomination 
Committee’s consideration. Roger Devlin was appointed as 
Chairman of the Board on 1 September 2013. Roger’s extensive 
board experience and knowledge of the hospitality and leisure 
industries compliments the skills, experience and knowledge of 
the Board.

Peter Dalzell was appointed to the Board on 3 October 2012 as 
an Executive Director.

33%

56%

■ Chairman
■ Executive Directors
■ Non-executive Directors

Commitment
Significant commitments of the Directors held outside of 
Marston’s are disclosed prior to appointment and on an ongoing 
basis where there are any changes. Actual and potential conflicts 
of interest are regularly reviewed. The Articles of Association allow 
the Board to authorise potential conflicts of interest and to impose 
any limits or conditions it sees fit. All of our Directors are required 
to allocate sufficient time to the Company to discharge their 
responsibilities effectively and this is reviewed as part of the 
annual evaluation process.

The former Chairman, David Thompson, is a Director of Ragleth 
Limited, the controlling shareholder of Anglia Maltings (Holdings) 
Limited and a supplier to the Company. All contracts are 
concluded on ordinary commercial terms without David 
Thompson being present in contract negotiations or in the event 
of any consideration of these by the Board. The former Chairman 
has no controlling interest in Ragleth Limited and consequently 
the transactions between the Company and Ragleth Limited are 
not related party transactions as defined by International Financial 
Reporting Standards.

32 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013During the year the Board held three meetings at sites other than 
at Head Office in Wolverhampton, visited a number of its 
managed pubs and met with local management to further its 
understanding of operational matters. Individually, the Non-
executive Directors spent time with senior managers visiting 
managed and tenanted pubs and our regional breweries. There 
are regular opportunities for the Directors to meet with senior 
management in the pubs and breweries to maintain and deepen 
their understanding of our business.

Information and support
The Chairman agrees the agenda for each meeting in conjunction 
with the CEO and Company Secretary. Board and Committee 
members are supplied with briefings on substantive issues in 
advance of meetings and there is a regular timetable of matters for 
consideration during the year. Board papers are circulated at least 
seven days prior to each Board or Committee meeting to ensure that 
Directors have sufficient time to review them before the meeting. 
Regular reports cover the Company’s financial position, risk 
management and regulatory compliance. Updates on activities 
across each operating division and performance against targets are 
reported to the Board through the senior operating managers in a 
monthly summary of key business operations.

The Company Secretary advises the Board, through the 
Chairman, on all governance matters. All Directors have access  
to her advice and services. If necessary, Directors may seek 
independent professional advice at the Company’s expense in 
the performance of their duties.

Election and re-election
Shareholders will consider the election of Roger Devlin at the AGM 
and he will be subject to annual re-election thereafter. All other 
Directors offer themselves for re-election at each AGM. Details of 
each Director serving on the Board at the date of this Report are set 
out on pages 26 to 27 and, with the exception of Lord Hodgson, 
shall be set out to shareholders in the papers accompanying the 
election and re-election resolutions for the AGM.

Evaluation
The Code recommends that an evaluation of the effectiveness of 
the Board and its Committees is conducted annually and that this 
process is externally facilitated at least every third year. This year 
the evaluation process was externally facilitated, having last been 
carried out this way in 2010/11.

The evaluation, conducted by Equity Communications Limited, 
involved a questionnaire designed to assess current Board 
processes and procedures, its composition, allocation of priorities 
and management of risk with the aim of assisting the new 
Chairman in framing the future focus of the Board. The review of 
the Committees focused on their performance throughout the 
year, whether the agendas covered their remits and the 
effectiveness of their communications with the full Board.

A report was prepared for the Board on its effectiveness and that 
of its Committees. The report concluded Marston’s Board is 
sound, well-rounded and highly functional and that the Board and 
its Committees continued to operate effectively. The atmosphere 
is collegiate but appropriately challenging and there are no 
significant areas of concern. Whilst the report highlighted the 
quality of information provided to the Board, we have adopted the 
recommendation to review the format in which papers are 
delivered. The review also identified a number of areas for the 
Board to integrate into its annual forward agenda to enhance the 
following:
•	 balance between monitoring past performance and 

considering the future of the business;
•	 focus on the execution of strategy; and
•	 consideration of succession planning, recruitment and culture.

The Board is of the opinion, supported by the Nomination 
Committee, that each Director continues to make an effective  
and valuable contribution and demonstrates commitment to his  
or her role.

Training and development
The Chairman will take on the responsibility for ensuring that 
Directors continually update their skills, knowledge and familiarity 
with the Company. The Chairman will conduct development 
reviews with each Director and, where necessary, the Company 
will provide resources to meet development requirements for 
individual Directors.

All Directors receive a tailored induction programme on joining  
the Board.

33 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013GovernanceCORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORT CONTINUED

NOMINATION COMMITTEE
MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF THE NOMINATION COMMITTEE

Dear Shareholder

Following my appointment as Chairman of the Company and Nomination Committee in September 2013, the initial focus of the 
Committee will be the further development of the long-term succession plans for the Board. The assessments and outputs from the 
recent externally facilitated Board evaluation will also inform a review of the composition and structure of the Board and its Committees 
to ensure that they best service the needs of the Company and its shareholders.

Roger Devlin
Chairman of the Nomination Committee

Membership

Roger Devlin (from 1 September 2013)
David Thompson (until 31 August 2013)
Nick Backhouse 
Rosalind Cuschieri 
Ralph Findlay 
Neil Goulden
Lord Hodgson 
Robin Rowland 

Responsibilities

•	 Ensure the Board and its Committees have the right balance 

of skills, knowledge and experience.

•	 To plan for the orderly succession of Directors to the Board 

and other senior executives.

•	 To identify and nominate suitable candidates for Executive 
and Non-executive Director vacancies having regard to, 
amongst other factors, the benefits of diversity, including 
gender diversity.

Attendees:
Other Executive Directors, senior management and external 
advisers may be invited to attend meetings.

Terms of reference:
Full terms of reference of the Committee can be found in the 
Investors section of the Company’s website.

Activities
The Nomination Committee met four times during the year, specifically to consider the recruitment and appointment of a new Chairman 
and to consider and appoint Richard Westwood as the new Managing Director of Marston’s Beer Company. 

The Committee also considered the membership of the Board and each of its Committees and, using the output from the Board evaluation, is 
actively reviewing the long-term succession planning process for Non-executive Directors to ensure the structure, size and composition of the 
Board and its Committees continues to be effective, thus ensuring appropriate levels of corporate governance and best practice.

The effectiveness of the Committee was considered as part of the wider Board evaluation process. The Board concluded that it is 
satisfied that the Committee continues to perform its duties in accordance with its terms of reference.

Finally, the Committee considered the effectiveness and commitment of each Director standing for election or re-election at the 2014 
AGM and, having concluded that their performance continues to be effective, recommends the election or re-election of each Director 
to its shareholders.

34 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013Diversity Policy
The way we manage our pubs, breweries and brands reflects the 
preferences of many different consumer and customer types; it is 
therefore vital that our management of the business has 
appropriate regard for diversity when making decisions.

At Marston’s, we consider that diversity includes (but is not limited 
to) personal attributes and characteristics, gender, ethnicity, age, 
disability and religious belief. Our aim is to promote equality, 
respect and understanding, and to avoid discrimination. 

On the Board, succession planning is informed by guidance 
provided by the Financial Reporting Council (FRC) and the 
Department for Business, Innovation & Skills (BIS) on both Board 
Effectiveness and Gender Diversity, and recruitment to the Board 
recognises the benefits of diversity. When recruiting, we require 
that executive search firms used have signed up to their industry’s 
Voluntary Code of Conduct (prepared in response to the Davies 
Review of Women on Boards). We do not have a specific target 
for numbers of female Directors, and make appointments on the 
basis of merit. 

The Board, through the CEO, takes overall responsibility for 
diversity and equality below Board level. We have a code of 
behaviour which is communicated throughout Marston’s: to 
behave Fairly, with Integrity, and Transparency. We have a 
Whistleblowing Policy intended to ensure that concerns can be 
raised without adverse effect on the reportee’s career and 
development at Marston’s. Further details of Marston’s approach 
to diversity can be found on the website www.marstons.co.uk/
responsibility/caringforouremployees

C.  ACCOUNTABILITY

Fair, balanced and understandable assessment
In relation to compliance with the Code, the Board has given 
consideration to whether the Annual Report and Accounts, taken 
as a whole, is fair, balanced and understandable. The preparation 
of this document is coordinated by the Finance and Company 
Secretariat teams with Group-wide support and input from other 
areas of the business. Comprehensive reviews are undertaken at 
regular intervals throughout the process by senior management 
and other contributing personnel within the Group.

Internal controls
The Board is responsible for the Company’s systems of internal 
control and risk management. The Executive Directors are 
responsible for the implementation of internal control and risk 
management systems, which are designed to manage rather than 
eliminate risk. By their nature, such systems provide only a 
reasonable and not absolute defence against material errors, 
losses, fraud or breaches of the law.

Control environment
The key features of the internal control system are:
•	 A clearly defined management structure operating within a 
framework of policies and procedures covering authority 
levels, responsibilities and accountabilities.

•	 A detailed formal budgeting process for all Group activities, 

with the annual Group budget and projections for future years 
being formally approved by the Board.

•	 Established procedures for planning, approving and monitoring 

capital expenditure and major projects.

•	 Board approval is needed for all major investment, divestment 

and strategic plans and programmes.

•	 At each meeting the Board reviews financial and non-financial 

progress towards the Company’s goals.

•	 An internal audit function that scrutinises internal controls and 
conducts audits on controls associated with key risks of the 
business, and which recommends improvements.

Risk management system
There is an ongoing process for identifying, evaluating and 
managing the significant risks faced by the Group. The Board 
reviews the risks annually and the senior management team 
identify and regularly review the top risks with their management 
teams and the Corporate Risk Director. These reviews cover 
strategic, financial, operational and compliance risks.

Managers are required to identify key internal controls for each of 
the risks they are responsible for. The identified risks are classified 
and recorded in the Group’s risk register.

The internal audit strategy takes into account the key business 
risks of the Group and provides assurance to the Audit 
Committee on the effectiveness of the internal control 
environment in mitigating the risks to an acceptable level. The risk 
management programme provides vital information to ensure that 
the internal strategy provides sufficient coverage of the critical 
areas of internal control.

Compliance
In 2013 Marston’s set up a Compliance Committee chaired by the 
Corporate Risk Director, in order to monitor all areas of legal 
compliance across the Company. The Committee is responsible 
for maintaining a register of legislation appertaining to Marston’s 
activities, and seeking confirmation of compliance from 
management on a regular basis. Breaches in compliance will be 
reported by the Committee to the Board; in addition the 
Committee will report its operations biannually to the Board. The 
Committee meets quarterly, and includes representatives from 
across the business, in order to consider any emerging areas of 
legislation or challenges to existing compliance. 

35 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013GovernanceCORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORT CONTINUED

AUDIT COMMITTEE
MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE

Dear Shareholder

Each member of the Committee, all independent Non-executive Directors, contributes their own financial experience to effectively 
assess the external and internal audits of the Company and the internal control and risk management systems.

As indicated last year, the Committee has conducted a formal review of the external Audit, inviting a number of audit firms to tender for 
this work including one of the mid-tier firms outside of the ‘Big 4’. In assessing the tender proposals and presentations received, the 
Committee considered the ability of each firm to deliver a timely and efficient audit, relevant sector experience and knowledge of key 
audit issues, the wider services provided to the Company and the price. The Committee concluded that PwC continue to provide an 
effective audit service and that no other firm offered anything sufficiently different to justify a change of external Auditor. As a 
consequence, the Committee recommends their re-appointment.

Neil Goulden
Chairman of the Audit Committee

Membership

Neil Goulden
Nick Backhouse  
Rosalind Cuschieri
Lord Hodgson 

Attendees:
The Corporate Risk Director and external Auditors attend each 
meeting. Other individuals, such as the CEO, Chief Financial 
Officer (CFO), are usually invited to attend all or part of the 
Committee’s meetings. At least once a year, the external Auditors 
meet the Committee without any Executive Director present.

36 

Responsibilities

•	 Reviewing the integrity of the Company’s financial statements 
including the Interim Results and the Annual Report and 
Accounts.

•	 Reviewing the effectiveness of the internal controls and risk 

management system.

•	 Reviewing the Company’s systems for detecting fraud, 

preventing bribery and allowing employees to raise concerns 
in a safe and confidential manner.

•	 Reviewing the effectiveness of the Internal Audit function.
•	 Overseeing the relationship with the external Auditors, 

specifically reviewing and approving their fees, the terms of 
engagement and their objectivity and independence on an 
annual basis.

Terms of reference:
Full terms of reference of the Committee can be found in the 
Investors section of the Company’s website.

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013Auditors
In assessing the work of the external Auditors, the Committee 
found itself satisfied with the scope of their work, their 
effectiveness, tender proposal and presentation and fee proposal 
and recommended their re-appointment to the Board. The 
external Auditors conduct an annual review of their independence 
identifying all services provided to the Group and assessing 
whether the content and scale of such work is a threat to their 
independence. The audit partner is changed at least once every 
five years and a new partner was appointed during this period. 
The new partner observed the 2011/12 audit to ensure continuity 
following the changeover. Following this year’s review the Auditors 
concluded that there are no factors which would impair their 
objectivity and independence. The Committee is satisfied with the 
safeguards in place to protect the independence and objectivity 
of the service provided by the external Auditors.

The Committee accepts that some non-audit work is most 
appropriately undertaken by the Auditors. Where such work is 
expected to be in excess of a specified amount, the Chairman of the 
Audit Committee must approve the work. Below that amount, the 
CFO has authority to approve such work once he is satisfied that the 
Auditors are the most appropriate providers. The Group has used 
other accounting firms for some non-audit work. In each case, 
consideration was given to the need for value for money, experience 
and objectivity required in the particular circumstances.

Activities
During the year the Committee met four times to consider and 
review the risks to the Group, the internal control and risk 
management systems, to assess the annual internal audit plan 
and to review the audit tender proposals and presentations 
received. The Corporate Risk Director presented to each of the 
meetings. The Committee also considered the Annual Report and 
Accounts and Interim Results. In order to provide the Committee 
with the opportunity to review and challenge the integrity of the 
Company’s financial reports, the external Auditors attended each 
meeting. The external Auditors also presented their audit strategy, 
findings and conclusions in respect of the Annual Report and 
Accounts or Interim Results.

In addition the Committee reviewed a number of standing items 
including the Group’s Whistleblowing Policy and arrangements 
thereunder, matters arising from internal audits and compliance 
and legal developments.

Significant financial judgements
In recommending the Interim Results and Annual Report and 
Accounts to the Board for approval, the Committee reviewed  
the accounting for and disclosure of the following matters:
•	 The annual valuation of properties: the Committee concluded 
that the carrying value of properties was appropriate and 
endorsed management’s proposal to increase the frequency  
of full external valuations from every five to three years, 
supplemented by the internal valuation process.

•	 The classification of exceptional items including:

 – Reorganisation costs: the Committee was comfortable with 
management’s assessment that the costs identified as a 
result of the pub estate restructuring should be recognised 
as exceptional.

 – Following the Court of Appeal’s unanimous judgement in 
October 2013, against The Rank Group Plc, in relation to 
the VAT treatment of gaming machine income and 
Marston’s own claim in respect of this matter, a provision 
has been recognised in the accounts as HM Revenue & 

Customs may seek repayment of the amount originally paid 
plus interest. The Committee agreed that this item should 
be classified as exceptional.

•	 The Committee also assessed the quality of earnings in 
assessing the completeness of exceptional items and 
considered the requirements for further disclosure.

•	 Valuation of financial instruments: the Committee 

acknowledged that there continues to be volatility in the 
relative fair values of the financial instruments and concluded 
that the valuation in the accounts, which is based on the 
counterparty calculations, represents an appropriate and 
consistent approach with prior years.

•	 Other matters: the Committee considered and agreed the key 
judgements made in relation to corporate and indirect tax 
matters and the valuation of pension assets and liabilities.

D.  REMUNERATION
Information on the Remuneration Committee, its membership and 
activities is given in the Directors’ Remuneration Report on pages 
38 to 53. A resolution to approve the Directors’ Remuneration 
Policy will be proposed at the AGM and, if approved, will be 
effective from 5 October 2014. The Report also comprises the 
Annual Report on Remuneration and this is subject to an advisory 
vote at the AGM.

E.  SHAREHOLDER RELATIONS
Engagement with our shareholders is essential to ensure a 
greater understanding of and confidence in the medium and 
longer-term strategy of the Company and in the Board’s ability  
to oversee its implementation.

An investor relations programme is in place between the Executive 
Directors and institutional shareholders, fund managers and 
analysts. The CEO and CFO meet with Private Client Fund Managers 
in a number of locations on a quarterly basis. Matters such as 
strategy, performance, management and governance are discussed 
within the constraints of information already made publicly available.

The Board considers it important to understand the views of 
shareholders and issues which concern them. At least twice each 
year, it receives written feedback from analysts and institutional 
shareholders on their meetings with Executive Directors. During the 
year the Chairman and Senior Independent Director were available to 
meet with the Company’s major institutional investors who are also 
offered the opportunity to meet with newly appointed Directors.

The Company Secretary oversees communication with private 
individual shareholders on behalf of the Board. The Annual Report 
and Accounts is the principal means of communication and the 
Company’s website is an important method of communication for 
the majority of its shareholders providing comprehensive share 
price information, results presentations, financial calendars and 
announcements.

The AGM is an opportunity for the Board to communicate with  
all of its shareholders. Recent trading performance and 
developments in the business are presented prior to the formal 
business of the meeting. Shareholders are invited to ask 
questions during the meeting, which is followed by an opportunity 
to meet with the Directors on an informal basis. All of our 
Directors attend and have dialogue with our shareholders at our 
AGM. The Company will release the results of voting, including 
proxy votes on each resolution, on its website on the next 
business day at www.marstons.co.uk/investors 

37 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013GovernanceDIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT
REMUNERATION COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN – ANNUAL STATEMENT

•	 The performance measures for awards granted under the LTIP 
in 2013/14 will be a combination of Return on Capital, Free 
Cash Flow, and relative Total Shareholder Return. The actual 
performance measures and targets for LTIP awards to be 
granted in 2013/14 are set out on page 49.

•	 The maximum award under the new LTIP will be increased 

from 100% of salary to 125%. The Remuneration Committee 
considers that a maximum award of 125% is appropriate given 
the level of stretch in the proposed targets, without 
encouraging excessive risk. In conjunction with the increase in 
maximum potential, the Remuneration Committee proposes 
that the amount that will vest at threshold is reduced from 35% 
to 25% of the maximum award. This means that, with a 
maximum opportunity of 125% of salary, the threshold amount 
earned would be 31.25% of salary compared to 35% under the 
existing LTIP.

•	 The Remuneration Committee is also conscious that, due to its 
age, the 2004 LTIP rules do not reflect best practice in terms of 
governance and administration of incentive awards. The 2014 
LTIP therefore includes updated provisions to reflect current 
best practice, including “clawback” provisions and treatment 
of leavers. A summary of the key terms of the proposed 2014 
LTIP rules is set out in the notice of the AGM.

The Remuneration Committee is not proposing any changes in 
respect of the annual bonus for 2013/14 and other benefits, 
including pension provision, will be maintained at existing levels 
(other than an increase in total pension contribution and salary 
supplement from 15% to 20% of salary for Andrew Andrea which 
took effect from October 2012 following a review of market rates 
and this rate will apply for Executive Directors’ appointments in 
the future).

The Remuneration Committee believes these changes are in the 
best interests of the Company. We recognise the expectations of 
our shareholders on executive pay and our history should 
demonstrate clearly that the Remuneration Committee 
approaches such issues with caution and sensitivity. 

Lord Hodgson
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee

Note
This Report has been prepared on behalf of the Board and has been approved by 
the Board. The Report complies with the Large and Medium Sized Companies  
and Groups (Accounts and Reports) (Amendment) Regulations 2013, the 2012  
UK Corporate Governance Code (the Code) and the Financial Conduct Authority 
Listing Rules. 

To reflect the requirements of the revised remuneration reporting regulations this 
Report is presented in two sections: 
•	 The Directors’ Remuneration Policy sets out the forward-looking remuneration 

policy; 

•	 The Annual Report on Remuneration provides details on the amounts earned in 

respect of the period and how the policy will be operated for the period 
commencing 6 October 2013. 

The final additional information section at the end of this Report includes disclosures 
required by the UKLA Listing Rules 9.8.6 and 9.8.8. For future periods these 
requirements will be removed but for the period ended 5 October 2013 Marston’s is 
required to provide information under both the revised remuneration reporting 
regulations and the Listing Rules. 

Dear Shareholder

On behalf of the Board, I am pleased to present the Remuneration 
Report for the period ended 5 October 2013, which sets out the 
remuneration policy for the Directors of Marston’s and the 
amounts earned in respect of the period ended 5 October 2013. 
The Government has introduced new regulations which impact on 
the presentation and disclosure of Directors’ remuneration and 
the lay-out of this report reflects those new regulations. 

2012/13 key decisions and incentive pay-outs
The Remuneration Committee remains committed to a responsible 
approach to executive pay, particularly given the continuing 
challenges of the economic environment. As described in the 
Strategic Report, Marston’s earnings are broadly in line with last year 
and, as the underlying premise of a bonus scheme is to reward 
growth, no annual bonus was earned by the Executive Directors in 
respect of the period ended 5 October 2013. Furthermore, EPS 
growth over the three year performance period ending 5 October 
2013 was less than RPI +3% and as a result the Long Term 
Incentive Plan (LTIP) awards granted in July 2010 lapsed.

Base salary increases for Executive Directors were 3% which was 
in line with the range of salary increases across the Group.

Proposed changes in Executive Director remuneration for 
2013/14
The current LTIP was adopted by shareholders in 2004 and 
expires in 2014. This has prompted the Remuneration Committee 
to review the efficacy of the incentive arrangements which form 
part of the Marston’s executive remuneration policy. This also 
provided an opportunity for the Remuneration Committee to 
ensure that future arrangements are fully aligned to the strategic 
direction of the Company, whilst delivering genuine recognition of 
performance. The Remuneration Committee determined that the 
current LTIP performance measure (EPS growth) does not fully 
reflect Marston’s strategic objectives: delivery of sustainable 
growth; increasing return on capital and reducing leverage. The 
Remuneration Committee concluded the LTIP performance 
measures should be consistent with these objectives and at the 
same time provide longer term stretching performance targets 
thus ultimately delivering enhanced shareholder value. 

Therefore, after extensive consultation with, and good support 
from, our major shareholders, shareholder approval for a new 
LTIP is being sought at the AGM and the Remuneration 
Committee intends to implement the following changes to the 
long term incentive arrangements for 2013/14:

38 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013 
DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION POLICY
This part of the report sets out the Company’s Directors’ remuneration policy which will be subject to a binding vote at the 2014 AGM 
and take effect from 5 October 2014. The policy is determined by the Company’s Remuneration Committee (“the Committee”). 

Base Salary

Purpose and link 
to strategy

Core element of fixed remuneration, reflecting the size and scope of the role.

Purpose is to recruit and retain Directors of the calibre required for the business.

Operation

Reviewed annually and usually fixed for 12 months commencing 1 October. 

Whilst Executive Directors are contractually entitled to an annual review of their salary, there is no entitlement  
to an increase as a result of this review.

Salary levels are determined by the Committee taking into account a range of factors including:

•	 role, experience and performance;

•	 alignment with workforce;

•	 prevailing market conditions; and

•	 external benchmarks for similar roles at comparable companies.

Opportunity

Salary increases are reviewed in the context of salary increases across the wider Group. The Committee 
considers any increase which is out of line with these very carefully and such increases may be awarded where 
there is a reason to do so taking into account relevant factors. These circumstances may include but are not 
limited to:

•	 increase in scope and responsibility;

•	 promotional increase to Executive Director; or

•	 a salary falling significantly below market positioning.

Performance 
metrics

Not applicable, although the individual’s contribution and overall performance is one of the considerations in 
determining the level of any salary increase.

Benefits

Purpose and 
link to strategy

Ensures the overall package is competitive.

Purpose is to recruit, and retain Directors of the calibre required for the business.

Participation in the Save as You Earn scheme (SAYE) creates staff alignment with the Group and promotes a 
sense of ownership.

Operation

Executive Directors receive benefits in line with market practice which include a car allowance, private medical 
insurance and life assurance.

The SAYE is a HMRC approved monthly savings scheme facilitating the purchase of shares at a discount.

Other benefits may be provided based on the role and individual circumstances. These may include, for example, 
relocation and travel allowances.

Opportunity

Set at a level which the Committee considers appropriate against the market and provides a sufficient level of 
benefit based on individual circumstances.

SAYE contribution as permitted in accordance with the relevant tax legislation.

Performance 
metrics

Not applicable.

39 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013GovernanceDIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

Annual bonus and deferred bonus plan

Purpose and link 
to strategy

Operation

Rewards performance against annual targets which support the strategic direction of the Company.

Compulsory deferral into shares aligns Executive Directors with shareholder interests and provides a retention 
element.

Targets are set annually and any pay-out is determined by the Committee after the period end, based on 
performance against those targets. The Committee has discretion to vary the bonus pay-out should any 
formulaic output not reflect the Committee’s assessment of overall business performance.

Any bonus earned in excess of 40% of the maximum award is usually payable in shares in the Company which 
will be deferred for a period of three years. Executive Directors can opt to defer a greater proportion if they wish. 
Deferral of any bonus earned is subject to a de minimis limit of £5,000.

A claw-back (malus) provision gives the Remuneration Committee the right to cancel unvested shares if an act or 
omission of the participant contributes to a material misstatement of the Group’s financial statements or results in 
material loss or reputational damage for the Company.

As with all Company bonuses, they remain discretionary and can be adjusted or removed at the Company’s 
discretion. In the case of Executive Directors this discretion lies with the Remuneration Committee.

Opportunity

Maximum bonus opportunity is 100% of base salary.

Performance 
metrics

Financial targets are set each year reflecting the business priorities that underpin Group strategy and align to 
financial key performance indicators which may include Group profit and Return on Capital measures.

At least 50% of the award will be based on Group profit.

Payments range between 0% and 100% of base salary with 50% of the maximum entitlement for each measure 
payable for on-target performance. 

For achievement of the maximum performance level (the highest level of performance that results in any 
additional payment) 100% of the maximum opportunity will vest.

There is usually straight-line vesting between the threshold and target performance levels and between target 
and maximum performance levels.

The Committee has the discretion to vary the vesting schedules by reducing the percentage that vests at each 
performance level but not by increasing the percentage that vests.

Long term incentive plan (LTIP)

Purpose and link 
to strategy

Incentivises Executive Directors to deliver against the Company’s strategy over the longer term.

Long term performance targets and share-based remuneration support the creation of sustainable shareholder 
value.

Operation

The Committee intends to make long term incentive awards under the new LTIP which will be put to shareholders 
for approval at the 2014 AGM.

Under the new LTIP, awards of conditional shares, restricted stock or nil cost options (or similar cash equivalent) 
can be made with vesting dependent on the achievement of performance conditions, normally over a three year 
performance period.

Awards may vest early on a change of control (or other relevant event) subject to satisfaction of the performance 
conditions and pro-rating for time, although the Remuneration Committee has discretion to increase the extent of 
vesting having due regard to performance over the period to vesting. 

As described on page 45, LTIP awards may also vest early in “good leaver” circumstances.

Under the new LTIP the Remuneration Committee has the right to reduce any LTIP awards which have not yet 
vested (i.e. a malus provision) if an act or omission contributes to a material misstatement of the Group’s financial 
statements or results in material loss or reputational damage for the Company.

The Committee may at its discretion structure awards as Approved Performance Share Plan (APSP) awards. 
APSP awards enable the participant and company to benefit from HMRC approved option tax treatment in 
respect of part of the award, without increasing the pre-tax value delivered to participants. APSP awards may be 
structured either as an approved option for the part of the award up to the HMRC limit (currently £30,000) with an 
unapproved option for the balance and a “linked award” to fund the exercise price of the approved option, or as 
an approved option and a LTIP award, with the vesting of the LTIP award scaled back to take account of any gain 
made on exercise of the approved option. 

40 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013Long term incentive plan (LTIP) continued

Opportunity

The normal maximum award size will be 125% of base salary in respect of any financial year.

In exceptional circumstances the Remuneration Committee reserves the right to award up to 200% of base 
salary in respect of any financial year.

These limits do not include the value of shares subject to any approved option granted as part of an APSP 
award.

Performance 
metrics

The vesting of LTIP awards is subject to the satisfaction of performance targets set by the Remuneration 
Committee. 

The performance measures are reviewed regularly to ensure they remain relevant but will be based on financial 
measures and/or share price growth related measures, including (but not exclusively):

•	 free cash flow;

•	 return on capital employed; and

•	 relative total shareholder return.

The relevant metrics and the respective weightings may vary each year based upon Company strategic priorities.

For 2014, the performance measures and weightings will be:

•	 40% free cash flow;

•	 40% return on capital employed; and

•	 20% relative total shareholder return.

For the achievement of threshold performance no more than 25% of each respective element of the award  
will vest.

For the achievement of maximum performance 100% of each respective element will vest.

There will be straight-line vesting between threshold and maximum performance.

The Committee will regularly review the performance conditions and targets to ensure they are aligned to 
Marston’s strategy and remain challenging and reflective of commercial expectations.

The Committee has the discretion to vary the vesting schedules by reducing the percentage that vests at each 
performance level but not by increasing the percentage that vests.

Retirement benefits

Purpose and link 
to strategy

Operation

To recruit and retain Directors of the calibre required for the business.

Provides market competitive post-employment (or cash equivalent) benefits.

Executive Directors are eligible to participate in the defined contribution pension scheme (or such other pension 
plan as may be deemed appropriate) and, if a member before closure of the scheme, the defined benefit 
scheme.

The defined benefit scheme was closed to new entrants from 29 September 1997. Executive Directors who are 
members of the closed scheme can continue to receive benefits in accordance with the terms of this scheme. 

In appropriate circumstances, Executive Directors may take a salary supplement instead of contributions into a 
pension plan.

Opportunity

Ralph Findlay, who was previously a member of the defined benefit scheme has opted to no longer accrue future 
benefits and instead receives 25% of base salary as a salary supplement in lieu of pension contributions. 

All the other Executive Directors (including any new appointments) may receive contributions of up to 20% of 
base salary under the defined contribution pension scheme, an equivalent cash allowance or a combination of 
the two (up to 20% of base salary). 

Active members of the defined benefit pension scheme continue to accrue benefits under this scheme. 

Performance 
metrics

Not applicable.

41 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013GovernanceDIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

Non-executive Director fees

Purpose and link 
to strategy

Sole element of Non-executive Director remuneration set at a level that reflects market conditions and is sufficient 
to attract individuals with appropriate knowledge and experience.

Operation

Fees are reviewed every two years and amended to reflect market positioning and any change in responsibilities.

The Committee recommends the remuneration of the Chairman to the Board. Fees paid to Non-executive 
Directors are determined and approved by the Board as a whole.

The Non-executive Directors do not participate in the annual bonus plan, any of the Group’s share incentive 
plans nor do they receive any benefits or pension contributions.

Opportunity

Fees are based on the level of fees paid to Non-executive Directors serving on Boards of similar-sized UK-listed 
companies and the time commitment and contribution expected for the role.

Non-executive Directors receive a basic fee and an additional fee for further duties (for example chairmanship of 
a committee or senior independent director responsibilities).

Performance 
metrics

Not applicable.

The Remuneration Committee reserves the right to make any remuneration payments and payments for loss of office notwithstanding 
that they are not in line with the Policy set out above where the terms of the payment were agreed: 

(i)  before the Policy came into effect; or 
(ii)  at a time when the relevant individual was not a Director of the Company and, in the opinion of the Remuneration Committee, the 

payment was not in consideration for the individual becoming a Director of the Company. 

For these purposes the term payments includes the Remuneration Committee satisfying awards of variable remuneration and, in relation 
to an award over shares, the terms of the payment are agreed at the time the award is granted. For the avoidance of doubt, the 
Remuneration Committee’s discretion includes discretion to determine, in accordance with the rules of the current LTIP, the extent to 
which awards under that plan may vest in the event of a change of control or in a ‘good leaver’ circumstance.

The Committee may make minor changes to this Policy, which do not have a material advantage to Directors, to aid in its operation or 
implementation taking into account the interests of shareholders but without the need to seek shareholder approval.

42 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013Explanation of performance metrics chosen
Performance measures are selected that are aligned to the Company’s strategy. Stretching performance targets are set each year for the 
annual bonus and long term incentive awards. In setting these stretching performance targets the Committee will take into account a number 
of different reference points which may include the Company’s business plans and strategy and the market environment. Where relative total 
shareholder return is used there will be no payment for performance below median (compared to the comparator group).

The annual bonus performance targets reflect key financial objectives of the Company and reward for delivery against these. 

The LTIP performance targets reflect the Company’s strategic objectives and therefore the financial and strategic decisions which 
ultimately determine the success of the Company. The LTIP performance measures will be based on financial measures and/or share 
price growth related measures, including (but not exclusively):
•	 Cash Return On Cash Capital Employed – this is a key driver of shareholder value and reflects Marston’s investment/disposal plans 

and the Balance Sheet. 

•	 Free Cash Flow – this reflects the operating cash flow of the business after tax and interest which is available to return to 

shareholders as dividends; to reinvest to increase returns; or to pay down debt. 

•	 Relative Total Shareholder Return – aligns management’s objectives with those of shareholders and is a broad measure of the extent 

to which Company strategy is considered appropriate by the market as well as the extent to which it is being well implemented. 

The Remuneration Committee retains the discretion to adjust the performance targets and measures where it considers it appropriate 
to do so (for example, to reflect changes in the structure of the business and to assess performance on a fair and consistent basis from 
year to year).

Illustration of application of Remuneration Policy
The charts below show the relative split of remuneration between fixed pay (base salary, benefits and pension) and variable pay (annual 
bonus, deferred bonus plan (DBP) and LTIP) for each Executive Director on the basis of minimum remuneration, remuneration receivable 
for performance in line with the Company’s expectations and maximum remuneration (not allowing for any share price appreciation).

Ralph Findlay

Andrew Andrea

Peter Dalzell

■ LTIP
■ Annual bonus
■ Fixed pay

£1,065
15%

24%

£652

£1,795

36%

28%

100%

61%

36%

)
s
0
0
0
£

(

n
o
i
t
a
r
e
n
u
m
e
R

l

a
t
o
T

£2,000

£1,500

£1,000

£500

£0

■ LTIP
■ Annual bonus
■ Fixed pay

£2,000

£1,500

£1,000

£500

£395

£653
15%
24%

)
s
0
0
0
£

(

n
o
i
t
a
r
e
n
u
m
e
R

l

a
t
o
T

£1,108

36%

28%

100%

61%

36%

£0

■ LTIP
■ Annual bonus
■ Fixed pay

£1,231

29%

23%

£826
11%
17%

£597

100%

72%

48%

)
s
0
0
0
£

(

n
o
i
t
a
r
e
n
u
m
e
R

l

a
t
o
T

£2,000

£1,500

£1,000

£500

£0

Minimum In line with
expectations

Maximum

Minimum In line with
expectations

Maximum

Minimum In line with
expectations

Maximum

In illustrating the potential reward the following assumptions have been made:

Minimum performance

Performance in line with 
expectations

Maximum performance

Fixed pay

Annual bonus and DBP

LTIP

Fixed elements of remuneration 
are base salary, benefits and 
pension

Base salary is the latest known 
salary (i.e. the salary effective 
from 6 October 2013) and the 
value for benefits has been 
assumed to be equivalent to 
that included in the single figure 
calculation on page 46 

No bonus

No LTIP vesting

50% of salary delivered for 
achieving target performance

100% of salary awarded for 
delivering at or above the 
highest performance in respect 
of the annual bonus measures

25% of maximum award vesting 
(i.e. 31.25% of salary) for 
achieving threshold 
performance across all 
performance measures

100% of award vesting  
(125% of salary) delivered for 
achieving the most stretching 
level of performance measures 
attached to the LTIP awards

Awards under the LTIP and deferred shares vesting under the DBP are included at face value with no share price movement included.

43 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013Governance 
 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

Differences in policy from the wider employee population
The Company aims to provide a remuneration package that is market competitive, complies with any statutory requirements and is 
applied fairly and equitably across the wider employee population. Where remuneration is not determined by statutory regulation, the 
Company operates the same core principles as it does for Executive Directors namely;
•	 We remunerate people in a manner that allows for stability of the business and the opportunity for sustainable long-term growth.
•	 We seek to remunerate fairly and consistently for each role with due regard to the market place, internal consistency and the 

Company’s ability to pay.

With the exception of our pub managers and field-based operations teams, all bonus arrangements within the Group normally have the 
same structure and pay-out mechanism as those for Executive Directors.

Participation in the DBP and LTIP is extended to the senior management team at the discretion of the Board and, in line with the policy 
for Executive Directors, share ownership is encouraged and LTIP participants are expected to build and maintain a minimum level of 
shareholding. We also encourage long term employee engagement through the offer of SAYE to all employees of the Group who meet a 
minimum service requirement.

Recruitment Remuneration Policy
When hiring a new Executive Director, the Committee will typically seek to use the Policy detailed in the table above to determine the 
Executive Director’s ongoing remuneration package. To facilitate the hiring of candidates of the appropriate calibre required to 
implement the Group’s strategy, the Committee also retains the discretion to include any other remuneration component or award which 
is outside the Policy. In determining appropriate remuneration, the Committee will take into consideration all relevant factors (including 
the quantum and nature of remuneration) to ensure the arrangements are in the best interests of Marston’s and its shareholders.

The Committee may make an award to “buy-out” incentive arrangements forfeited on leaving a previous employer. In doing so the 
Committee will take account of relevant factors including the form of award, any performance conditions attached to these awards and 
the time over which they would have vested. The Committee would seek to incorporate buyout awards in line with the Company’s 
remuneration framework as far as is practical. The Committee may consider other components for structuring the buy-out, including 
cash or shares awards, restricted stock awards and share options where there is a commercial rationale for doing so. 

Appropriate costs and support will be covered if the recruitment requires relocation of the individual. 

All recruitment awards will normally be liable to forfeiture or “clawback” on early departure. For Executive Directors, early departure is 
defined as being within the first two years of employment. 

The maximum level of variable remuneration which may be granted (excluding buy-out arrangements) is three times salary. The 
Committee will ensure that such awards are linked to the achievement of appropriate and challenging performance measures and will 
be forfeited if performance or continued employment conditions are not met.

Service contracts and policy on payment for loss of office
Executive Directors’ contracts are on a rolling 12 month basis and are subject to 12 months’ notice when terminated by the Company 
and six months’ notice when terminated by the Director. The Committee may, in exceptional circumstances, in order to attract and retain 
suitable executives, offer service contracts with up to an initial 24 month notice period which then reduce to 12 months at the end of this 
initial period. 

The current Non-executive Directors, including the Chairman, do not have a service contract and their appointments, whilst for a term of 
three years, may be terminated without compensation at any time. All Non-executive Directors have letters of appointment and their 
appointment and subsequent re-appointment is subject to annual approval by shareholders.

44 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013The principles on which the determination of payments of loss of office will be approached are summarised below:

Provision

Treatment upon loss of office

Payment in lieu of notice

Annual bonus

Deferred bonus

New LTIP

Change of control

Mitigation

Payments to Executive Directors upon termination of their contracts will be equal to base salary plus the 
value of core benefits for the duration of the notional notice period. Benefits may also include, but are not 
limited to, outplacement and legal fees. 
They will also be entitled to pension contributions for the duration of the notional notice period. For active 
members of the defined benefit pension scheme an equivalent cash allowance will be negotiated.

This will be at the discretion of the Committee on an individual basis and the decision whether or not to 
award a bonus in full or in part will be dependent upon a number of factors including the circumstances of 
their departure and their contribution to the business during the bonus period in question. Any bonus 
amounts paid (as estimated by the Committee) will typically be pro-rated for time in service to termination 
and will, subject to performance, be paid at the usual time.

Any deferred award under the deferred bonus plan will be determined based on the leaver provisions 
contained within the deferred bonus plan rules.
For participants leaving before the first anniversary of the date of grant deferred awards will lapse unless the 
participant is considered a ‘good leaver’. For a good leaver the deferred award will vest in full. ‘Good leavers’ 
are participants who leave as a result of redundancy, death, ill-health, injury or disability, the sale of his 
employer out of the Group or any other reason at the discretion of the Committee.
For a participant leaving after the first anniversary of the date of grant the award will vest in full unless 
employment is terminated for reasons of misconduct (in which case the award will lapse).

Any award under the new LTIP would be determined based on the leaver provisions contained within the 
new LTIP plan rules.
For ‘good leavers’ new LTIP awards will usually vest at the ordinary vesting point, be subject to performance 
conditions and pro-rated for time. ‘Good leavers’ are participants who leave as a result of death, ill-health, 
injury or disability, the sale of his employer out of the Group or any other reason at the discretion of the 
Committee. In other circumstances LTIP awards will lapse upon the cessation of employment.
The Committee retains the discretion to accelerate vesting and to waive pro-rating for time.

Upon a change of control incentive awards will usually vest and be subject to performance conditions and 
pro-rated for time. 
The Committee retains the discretion to waive pro-rating for time.

Ralph Findlay’s service contract is formed under a model which was approved by the Committee in 2001 
and there is no reduction in payments for mitigation or for early payment as the Remuneration Committee 
has taken the view that as a long-standing employee of the Group, full compensation would be merited in 
the event of unilateral termination of his employment by the Group. 
Andrew Andrea and Peter Dalzell’s service contracts were formed under a new model approved in 2009 and 
provide that, subject to formal notice being given by either party, any payment during the notice period will 
be reduced by any amount earned in that period from alternative employment as a result of being released 
to work for another employer prior to the conclusion of their notice period.

Statement of consideration of employment conditions elsewhere in the Company
Salary, benefits and performance related rewards provided to employees are taken into account when setting policy for Executive 
Directors’ remuneration. Although employees are not actively consulted on Directors’ remuneration the Company has regular contact 
with union bodies on matters of pay and remuneration for employees covered by collective bargaining or consultation arrangements. 

In October of each year a paper is submitted to the Remuneration Committee by the Group Human Resources Director summarising 
the outcome of any annual reviews made to the wider workforce (including head office and supply chain employees but excluding pub 
based staff as the majority of these employees have their remuneration rate set by statute rather than the market). This paper is taken 
into account when setting Executive Directors’ remuneration effective from the start of October for the following 12 months. In addition, 
and where relevant, a similar paper is submitted in October covering the decisions taken by the Executive Committee relating to bonus 
payments for employees within the wider workforce. This is taken into consideration by the Remuneration Committee when approving 
bonus awards for Executive Directors.

Statement of consideration of shareholder views
The Committee is committed to open and transparent dialogue with shareholders and welcomes feedback on Executive and  
Non-executive Directors’ remuneration. 

Prior to the new LTIP being formally put to shareholders, the Committee has had an open dialogue with major shareholders and 
institutional investor bodies setting out the proposals and the detailed thinking and planning behind them.

45 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013GovernanceDIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

ANNUAL REPORT ON REMUNERATION
Remuneration principles
To align the remuneration of the Executive Directors with the Group’s strategic objectives and the interests of shareholders, our strategic 
priorities are reflected in our remuneration principles:

Key Focus

Remuneration Principles

Sustainable growth

•	 Ensure that remuneration arrangements support sustainable growth and the long-term objectives of 

the Company.

Shareholder interests

•	 Substantial part of the incentive package for Executive Directors is delivered in the Company’s shares 

to ensure interests are aligned with shareholders.

•	 Minimum shareholding requirements for Executive Directors and senior management.
•	 From 2012/13 bonuses earned in excess of 40% of the maximum opportunity will be payable in shares 

in the Company, which will be deferred for a period of three years.

Employee engagement

•	 Ensure Director and senior management salaries are set with reference to the wider workforce. 
•	 Offer an HMRC approved SAYE scheme to all eligible employees.

The policy is designed to ensure that Executive Directors are provided with sufficient remuneration to motivate each individual, together 
with appropriate incentives that are aligned to strategy and encourage enhanced performance. The Committee undertakes an annual 
review of market practices and commentary and remuneration levels of Directors in similar roles in companies of comparable sizes and 
complexity. In addition, they review the levels of remuneration for other employees and the pay increases awarded throughout the 
Group; the aim is to reward all employees fairly according to their role, performance, the economic environment and the financial 
performance of the Group. 

The following parts of the Remuneration Report are subject to audit, other than the elements explaining the application of the 
Remuneration Policy for 2013/14.

Single total figure of remuneration
The table below reports the total remuneration receivable in respect of qualifying services by each Director during the period:

Period ended 5 October 2013

Andrew Andrea
Peter Dalzell
Ralph Findlay

Roger Devlin1
Nick Backhouse
Rosalind Cuschieri
Neil Goulden
Lord Hodgson
Robin Rowland
David Thompson2

1  Roger Devlin was appointed as Chairman on 1 September 2013.
2  David Thompson stepped down as Chairman on 31 August 2013.

Period ended 29 September 2012

Andrew Andrea
Peter Dalzell
Ralph Findlay

Roger Devlin
Nick Backhouse
Rosalind Cuschieri
Neil Goulden
Lord Hodgson
Robin Rowland
David Thompson

46 

Total salary 
and fees
£

309,000
275,000
495,000

15,000
44,500
44,500
50,500
54,500
44,500
137,083

Total salary 
and fees
£

300,000
210,000
480,000

–
28,666
43,000
49,000
53,000
43,000
145,000

Taxable 
benefits
£

14,630
14,419
17,330

–
–
–
–
–
–
117,665

Taxable 
benefits
£

14,457
14,184
17,157

–
–
–
–
–
–
17,157

Annual bonus
£

Long term 
incentives
£

Pension related 
benefits
£

0
0
0

–
–
–
–
–
–
–

1,005
0
0

–
–
–
–
–
–
–

61,800
300,553
123,750

–
–
–
–
–
–
58,691

Annual bonus 
£

120,000
84,000
192,000

–
–
–
–
–
–
–

Long term 
incentives
£

Pension related 
benefits
£

0
0
0

–
–
–
–
–
–
–

47,025
142,005
126,533

–
–
–
–
–
–
32,175

Total
£

386,435
589,972
636,080

15,000
44,500
44,500
50,500
54,500
44,500
314,439

Total
£

481,482
450,189
815,690

–
28,666
43,000
49,000
53,000
43,000
194,332

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013The figures in the single figure table are derived from the following:

Total salary and fees

The amount of salary/fees received in the period. 

Taxable benefits

The taxable value of benefits received in the period. These are car allowance, private medical insurance and, 
for David Thompson, payment in lieu of unexpired contractual notice and loss of office details of which are 
set out on page 50. 

Annual bonus

No annual bonus was earned in the period ended 5 October 2013. A description of Group performance 
against which the bonus pay-out was determined is provided on pages 47 to 48.

Long term incentives

The value of LTIP awards that vest in respect of the financial period and the value of SAYE options granted in 
the financial period.

Pension related benefits

LTIP: None have vested in the period.

SAYE: For the period ended 5 October 2013 the long term incentive value includes the value of SAYE options 
granted based on the fair value of the options at grant.

The pension figure represents the cash value of pension contributions received by the Executive Directors. 
This includes the Company’s contributions to the defined contribution pension scheme and any salary 
supplement in lieu of a Company pension contribution and for individuals in the Company’s defined benefit 
pension scheme, it also includes the additional value achieved in the period calculated using the HMRC 
method (using a multiplier of 20). Further details of pension benefits are set out on pages 49 and 50. 

Individual elements of remuneration
Base salary and fees
Base salaries for individual Executive Directors are reviewed 
annually by the Remuneration Committee and are set with 
reference to individual performance, experience and 
responsibilities within the Group as well as with reference to 
similar roles in comparable companies. For 2012/13, Ralph 
Findlay and Andrew Andrea received a 3% salary increase, which 
was in line with the average salary increases across the Group.

For 2013/14, the average salary increase for Executive Directors is 
2.6%, which was in line with the average salary increases across 
the Group. The base salaries for 2012/13 and 2013/14 are as set 
out below:

Andrew Andrea
Peter Dalzell
Ralph Findlay

2012/13 
base salary

2013/14 
base salary

£309,000
£275,000
£495,000

£317,000
£282,000
£508,000

Increase

2.6%
2.6%
2.6%

The remuneration policy for Non-executive Directors, other than 
the Chairman, is determined by the Board and is reviewed every 
two years. Fees were reviewed in 2012 and reflect the 
responsibilities and duties placed upon Non-executive Directors 
whilst also having regard to market practice. The Non-executive 
Directors do not participate in any of the Group’s share incentive 
plans nor do they receive any benefits or pension contributions, 
with the exception of David Thompson who stepped down from 
the Board on 31 August 2013.

Non-executive Director fees

2012/13

2013/14

Basic fee
Additional fee for
– Chairmanship of the Remuneration 

Committee

– Chairmanship of the Audit 

Committee

– Senior Independent Non-executive 

Director

£44,500

£44,500

£5,000

£5,000

£6,000

£6,000

£5,000

£5,000

In 2012/13 David Thompson received remuneration totalling 
£212,309 (excluding payments in lieu of unexpired contractual 
notice and for loss of office). This comprised salary, benefits and 
pension. He did not receive any additional fees for Committee 
memberships. David Thompson accrued pension benefits up to 
the date of his retirement from the Board, details of which are set 
out on page 49. Roger Devlin will receive a fee of £180,000 and 
will not receive any pension benefits.

Annual bonus
With the exception of our pub managers and field-based 
operations teams, all bonus arrangements within the Group have 
the same structure and pay-out mechanism, though the 
maximum potential award, expressed as a percentage of salary, 
varies between different employee groups. 

Payments are calculated based upon achievement or exceeding 
pre-set targets for both Group profit and Return on Capital 
(‘ROC’). For 2012/13, Executive Directors could earn a bonus 
equivalent to 50% of base salary for hitting on-target performance 
and this increases on a linear basis for performance above the  
set targets up to a maximum of 100% of base salary. For 
Executive Directors, the bonus agreement includes two  
additional conditions:

47 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013GovernanceDIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

•	 Any bonus earned in excess of 40% of the maximum opportunity is payable in shares in the Company, which will be deferred for a 

period of three years; and 

•	 A ‘malus’ provision is operated which gives the Remuneration Committee the discretion to reduce/lapse unvested deferred shares if 
an act or omission of the participant contributes to a material misstatement of the Group’s financial statements or results in material 
loss or reputational damage for the Company.

The Directors consider that the future Group profit and ROC targets are matters which are commercially sensitive; they provide our 
competitors with insight into our business plans and expectations and should therefore remain confidential to the Company. However, 
the following table sets out the bonus pay-out to the Executive Directors for 2012/13 and Marston’s actual Group profit and ROC 
performance for the period.

2012/13

Group profit 
before 
exceptional 
items

£88.4m

Executive 
Director bonus 
as a percentage 
of salary

0%

ROC

10.7%

There was no bonus deferral in 2012/13 as there was no pay-out under the annual bonus scheme.

Annual bonus in 2013/14
No changes are proposed in respect of the annual bonus scheme for 2013/14. The maximum award under the annual bonus will remain 
unchanged at 100% of salary with 50% earned for on-target performance. Performance targets continue to be set at the challenging 
levels of previous years, with performance based upon Group profit (two thirds) and ROC (one third). Any bonus earned in excess of 
40% of salary will continue to be awarded in deferred shares paid after a further three years. For the reasons set out above, the 
Remuneration Committee considers that the Group profit and ROC targets are commercially sensitive and should therefore remain 
confidential to the Company. However, the Remuneration Committee will continue to disclose how the bonus pay-out delivered relates 
to performance against the targets on a retrospective basis.

Long Term Incentive Plan
Awards vesting in respect of the financial period
LTIP awards granted in July 2010 and June 2011 were subject to the achievement of an EPS growth performance condition over a three 
year period. Awards vest, on a sliding scale with 35% becoming exercisable if annual EPS growth exceeds RPI by 3%. For 100% of an 
award to vest EPS growth must exceed RPI by 9% per annum. 

EPS growth over the three year performance period ending 29 September 2012 was less than RPI +3% and the LTIP awards granted in 
July 2010 lapsed.

The extent to which the LTIP awards granted in June 2011 will vest will not be determined by the Remuneration Committee until  
June 2014, therefore an estimate of the level of vesting has been made. On the basis that any formulaic payout does not reflect the 
Company’s assessment of overall business performance for the period it has been assumed that this LTIP award will lapse.

Awards granted during the period
In respect of the period ended 5 October 2013 the following LTIP awards were granted:

Andrew Andrea
Peter Dalzell
Ralph Findlay

Type of 
award

Percentage of 
salary

Number of 
shares

Face value at 
grant

LTIP
LTIP
LTIP

100%
100%
100%

210,777
187,585
337,653

£308,999
£275,000
£494,999

% of award 
vesting at 
threshold

35%
35%
35%

Performance period

Financial years
2012/13 to 2014/15
inclusive

The performance condition for these LTIP awards is as follows:

EPS performance

EPS growth < RPI +3% p.a.
EPS growth = RPI +3% p.a.
EPS growth = RPI +9% p.a.

Straight-line vesting between these points

48 

% of award 
vesting

0%
35%
100%

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013Long Term Incentive Plan continued
Awards for 2013/14
The current LTIP was adopted by shareholders in 2004 and expires in 2014. This has prompted the Remuneration Committee to review 
the efficacy of the incentive arrangements which form part of the Marston’s executive remuneration policy. After extensive consultation 
with, and good support from, our major shareholders, shareholder approval for a new LTIP is being sought at the AGM.

The key objective for the Remuneration Committee has been to devise a plan which will use appropriate measures consistent with 
Marston’s current strategic objectives: delivery of sustainable growth; increasing ROC and reducing leverage. The Remuneration 
Committee has therefore concluded that performance measures for the LTIP should be a combination of Return on Capital, Free Cash 
Flow, and Relative Total Shareholder Return. 

The detailed performance metrics proposed are as follows:

CROCCE

FCF

Relative TSR 

% linked 
to award

40%

40%

20%

Threshold vesting 
at 25% of the 
maximum award

Base +0.25%

Vesting 
at 50% of the 
maximum award

Base +0.5%

Maximum vesting 
at 100% of the 
maximum award

Base +1.0%

Base +7.5% average 
growth per annum

Base +15% average 
growth per annum

Base +30% average 
growth per annum

Median

Upper quintile 

There will be straight-line vesting between the points and no reward below threshold performance. The base amounts will be set at a 
level that is considered stretching but without encouraging undue risk.

•	 CROCCE: Cash Return On Cash Capital Employed. The use 
of CROCCE (as opposed to an EBIT return on book value) 
removes potential distortions from subjective decisions on 
depreciation policy and asset revaluation. CROCCE will be 
based on the budget target for 2014. Threshold vesting for this 
measure would only be earned if this target is exceeded by 
0.25% over the three year period. 

•	 FCF: Free Cash Flow. This reflects the operating cash flow of 
the business after tax and interest which is available to return 
to shareholders as dividends; to reinvest to increase returns; or 
to pay down debt. It is more closely aligned to operating 
performance than a simple leverage ratio. FCF in 2014 will be 
set as a three year cumulative amount based on the budget for 
2014, 2015 and 2016 projections. Awards will only be earned if 
FCF exceeds that cumulative level at the end of three years by 
at least 7.5%.

•	 Relative TSR: Total Shareholder Return compared against 

the FTSE 250 (excluding investment trusts). The Remuneration 
Committee believe that a wider comparator group is a more 
robust and realistic way of measuring how shareholders value 
the Company and, furthermore, have set the maximum reward 
at upper quintile performance recognising our commitment to 
ensuring there are demanding performance targets. In 
addition, the Remuneration Committee will require that the 
element of the award associated with TSR performance will 
only be earned if underlying financial performance supports it.

The weightings for each measure have been set to balance what 
the Remuneration Committee consider to be the direction of 
focus for management in its day to day direction of the business 
with its ultimate responsibility to shareholders. In order to maintain 
transparency the Remuneration Committee will disclose how the 
Company has performed against each of the performance 
metrics following the end of the performance period.

The maximum award under the new LTIP will be increased from 
100% of salary to 125%. The Remuneration Committee considers 
that a maximum award of 125% is appropriate given the level of 
stretch in the proposed targets, without encouraging excessive risk. 

In conjunction with the increase in maximum potential the 
Remuneration Committee proposes that the amount that will vest at 
threshold is reduced to 25% of the maximum award from 35%. This 
means that, with a maximum opportunity of 125% of salary, the 
threshold amount earned would be 31.25% of salary compared to 
35% under the existing LTIP.

The Remuneration Committee is also conscious that, due to their 
age, the 2004 LTIP rules do not reflect best practice in terms of 
governance and administration of incentive awards. The 2014 
LTIP therefore includes updated provisions to reflect current best 
practice. A summary of the key terms of the proposed 2014 LTIP 
rules is set out in the notice of the AGM.

Total pension entitlements (for defined benefit schemes) 
The defined benefit scheme was closed to new entrants from  
29 September 1997. Ralph Findlay left the Marston’s Scheme on 
5 April 2012 and takes a salary supplement of 25% of base salary 
in lieu of future pension provision. David Thompson ceased to 
contribute to and be an active member of the defined benefit 
scheme as at 31 August 2013.

The details of pensions accrued in the defined benefit scheme are 
shown in the table below:

Change in 
accrued 
pension 
over 2012/13 
excluding 
increase for 
inflation 
£

14,570
(1,029)
1,195

Accrued 
pension at 
30.09.13 
£

61,828
105,793
180,783

Normal 
Retirement 
Date

65
60
60

Peter Dalzell
Ralph Findlay
David Thompson

Early retirement can be taken from age 55 provided the Group 
gives its consent. The accrued pension will then be reduced to 
take account of its early payment.

49 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013GovernanceDIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

On death before retirement, a spouse’s pension is payable equal 
to one-third of the member’s pension for Ralph Findlay and Peter 
Dalzell, plus a lump sum is payable equal to the Director’s 
contributions (including those made via salary sacrifice). On death 
after retirement the spouse’s pension payable is two-thirds of the 
member’s pre-commutation pension for David Thompson, and 
60% for Peter Dalzell and Ralph Findlay.

Defined contribution scheme
The Group makes contributions into the Group Personal Pension 
Plan (“GPPP”) on behalf of Andrew Andrea. A rate of 20% of base 
salary (paid partly as a GPPP contribution and partly as a taxable 
cash supplement) is payable in return for a minimum personal 
contribution of 7.5%. For the period ended 5 October 2013, the 
Group contribution for Andrew Andrea was £61,800, being £20,342 
pension contribution and a salary supplement of £41,458.

In 2012/3 Ralph Findlay received a taxable cash supplement of 
25% of basic salary in lieu of pension contributions.

Payments to past directors
There were no payments made to past Directors during the 
period in respect of services provided to the Company as  
a Director.

Payments for loss of office
On leaving the Company on 31 August David Thompson received a 
payment of £101,850. This comprised a payment in lieu of three 
months’ unexpired contractual notice of £50,925 and the balance in 
respect of compensation for loss of office. Both payments have been 
included in David’s taxable benefits figure on page 46. 

Statement of Directors’ shareholding and share interests
Executive Directors are expected to build up and maintain a shareholding in the Company equal to at least one times’ salary. As at  
5 October 2013, Andrew Andrea held 37%, Peter Dalzell held 23% and Ralph Findlay held in excess of 100% of base salary (based on 
the cost of acquisition).

Director 

Type

Owned outright

Unvested

Exercised 
during 
the year 

Subject to 
performance 
conditions

Not subject to 
performance 
conditions

Total as at  
5 October  

2013

114,785
N/A
N/A

61,220
N/A
N/A

859,547
N/A
N/A

0
88,126
0
268,000
80,972
52,083
1,665,679

N/A
0
11,826

N/A
0
0

N/A
0
0

N/A
818,044
N/A

N/A
459,050
N/A

N/A
1,318,513
N/A

N/A
N/A
7,330

N/A
N/A
20,302

N/A
N/A
20,302

114,785
818,044
7,330

61,220
459,050
20,302

859,547
1,318,513
20,302

0
88,126
0
268,000
80,972
52,083
1,665,679*

Executive
Andrew Andrea

Peter Dalzell

Ralph Findlay

Non-Executive
Nick Backhouse
Rosalind Cuschieri
Roger Devlin
Neil Goulden
Lord Hodgson
Robin Rowland
David Thompson

*as at 31 August 2013

Shares
Nil cost options
SAYE options

Shares
Nil cost options
SAYE options

Shares
Nil cost options
SAYE options

Shares
Shares
Shares
Shares
Shares
Shares
Shares

50 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013The following sections of the Remuneration Report are not 
subject to audit.

Performance graph and table
This graph shows the value, at 5 October 2013, of £100 invested 
in the Company on 6 October 2008 compared to the value of 
£100 invested in the FTSE All Share index. The FTSE All Share 
Index has been selected as a comparator because the Company 
is a member of that index.

300

250

200

150

100

50

0

Marston’s Net TSR

FTSE All Share Net TSR

Oct 08

Oct 09

Oct 10

Oct 11

Oct 12

Oct 13

Relative importance of spend on pay
The following table sets out the percentage change in dividends 
and the overall expenditure on pay (as a whole across the 
organisation).

2012

2013

% change

Dividends 
Overall expenditure on 

£34.7m1

£36.5m2

pay

£154.1m

£166.1m

5.2%

7.8%

240
1  Dividends payable in respect of the period ended 29 September 2012.
2  Dividends payable in respect of the period ended 5 October 2013.
200

Committees and Advisers 
160
The Remuneration Committee met four times during the period 
and comprises Lord Hodgson (Chairman), Rosalind Cuschieri, 
120
Neil Goulden and Robin Rowland all of whom are regarded by  
the Company as independent Non-executive Directors. 

T O   B E   U P D A T E D

80

40

Consideration by the Directors of matters relating to 
Directors’ remuneration
The Remuneration Committee is responsible for:
Sep 11

Sep 10

Sep 09

0

Sep 12

Marston’s Net TSR

FTSE All Share Net TSR

Enterprise Inns Net TSR

Green King Net TSR

Whitbread Net Return IND

Mitchells & Butler Net TSR

Punch Taverns Net TSR

Chief Executive Officer Remuneration for previous five 
years

Total 
Remuneration

Annual Bonus 
(% of maximum 
opportunity)

£636,080
£815,690
£974,784
£826,677
£640,190

0.0%
40.0%
46.0%
40.0%
0.0%

LTIP (% of 
maximum 
number of 
shares) 

0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%

2012/13
2011/12
2010/11
2009/10
2008/09

Percentage change in Chief Executive Officer 
Remuneration
The table below sets out in relation to salary, taxable benefits and 
annual bonus the percentage increase in remuneration for Ralph 
Findlay compared to the wider workforce. For these purposes, 
this includes head office and supply chain employees but 
excludes pub based staff as the majority of these employees have 
their remuneration rate set by statute rather than the market.

Percentage change

Salary 
Taxable benefits1
Annual Bonus2

CEO

3.12%
–
–

 Wider 
Workforce

3.0%
–
–

1.  Car allowances remained the same and the related taxable benefits were 

amended in accordance with HM Revenue & Customs guidelines. Private medical 
insurance premiums increased by 18% for the eligible wider workforce, including 
the CEO. The average percentage change in taxable benefits does not produce a 
meaningful comparison. 

2.  With the exception of a small number of operational employees within the wider 
workforce, no bonuses were payable this year based on Group performance. 
Therefore the percentage change in bonus compared to the prior year is not a 
meaningful comparison.

•	 Setting the framework and policy for Executive Directors’ 

remuneration;

•	 Determining the remuneration packages for the Executive 

Directors and Chairman;

•	 Monitoring the level and structure of remuneration for senior 

management and approving bonus payments; and

•	 Noting any major changes in employee benefit structures 

throughout the Group and ensuring that Executive Director 
remuneration practice is consistent with any such changes.

Advisers
During the period the Committee invited advice from a number of 
individuals to ensure its decision making was informed and took 
account of pay and conditions in the Group as a whole and wider 
market conditions. These individuals comprise:

•	 Deloitte LLP (Deloitte). Appointed by the Committee in 2003, 
Deloitte is retained to provide independent advice to the 
Committee as required and have confirmed they remain 
independent. During the period, Deloitte has also provided 
advice on various tax issues and internal audit services to the 
Company. Deloitte is a member of the Remuneration 
Consultants Group and, as such, voluntarily operates under 
the code of conduct in relation to executive remuneration 
consulting in the UK. Deloitte’s fees for providing advice to the 
Remuneration Committee amounted to £6,950 (2012: £6,200).
•	 KORN/FERRY Whitehead Mann. Appointed by the Nomination 
Committee to lead the search for a new Chairman, the agency 
provided advice to the Board as a whole in setting the new 
Chairman’s fees.

•	 Ralph Findlay, Chief Executive Officer, provided advice in 

respect of the remuneration of the other Executive Directors 
but was not in attendance when his own remuneration was 
discussed.

•	 Anne-Marie Brennan, Company Secretary, acts as secretary to 

the Committee.

51 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013GovernanceDIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

Statement of voting at last AGM
The Company remains committed to on-going shareholder dialogue and takes an active interest in voting outcomes. The following table 
sets out actual voting in respect of the resolution to approve the Directors’ Remuneration Report at the Company’s Annual General 
Meeting on 22 January 2013:

Resolution

Votes for

% of vote

Votes against

% of vote

Votes withheld

Approve Remuneration Report

97,457,903

99.77%

227,150

0.23%

786,844

Additional information
The text and tables that follow comprise the information required by the UKLA Listing Rules 9.8.6 and 9.8.8 that is not found elsewhere 
in the Remuneration Report. This section is audited.

Executive Directors’ interests in the LTIP
The individual interests for the Executive Directors which represent the maximum aggregate number of shares to which each individual 
could become entitled are as follows:

Andrew Andrea

Peter Dalzell

Ralph Findlay

Date of grant1

01.07.10
24.06.11
15.06.12
20.06.13

01.07.10
24.06.11
15.06.12
20.06.13

01.07.10
24.06.11
15.06.12
20.06.13

At 
30.09.12

253,699
292,307
314,960
–

51,026
50,993
220,472
–

459,534
476,923
503,937
–

Granted

Vested

Lapsed

–
–
–
210,777

–
–
–
187,585

–
–
–
337,653

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

253,699
–
–
–

51,026
–
–
–

459,534
–
–
–

At 
05.10.132

0
292,307
314,960
210,777

0
50,993
220,472
187,585

0
476,923
503,937
337,653

Exercise 
period
 from3

N/A
24.06.14
15.06.15
20.06.16

N/A
24.06.14
15.06.15
20.06.16

N/A
24.06.14
15.06.15
20.06.16

1  Each 2011 grant comprised an HMRC approved option (over 30,769 shares) and an unapproved award for the balance. A corresponding linked award was also made to 
enable the participant to fund the exercise of the approved option. Each linked award is satisfied by shares from the Company’s employee benefit trust which are used to 
fund the approved option exercise price. These shares are then retained by the trust and not delivered to the participant. 

2  The mid-market ordinary share price on 4 October 2013 (5 October being a Saturday) was 145.40p and the daily mid-market share price range during the period was 

144.20p to 165.50p.

3  Provided that the required shareholding and the performance conditions are met, options granted under the LTIP will not expire until the tenth anniversary of the date of the 

grant. The performance conditions to which awards under the LTIP are subject are set out on page 48.

Executive Directors’ interests in the SAYE
The individual interests of the Executive Directors under the SAYE scheme are as follows:

Andrew Andrea

Peter Dalzell

Ralph Findlay

Date of Grant

25.06.10
19.06.13

25.06.10

25.06.10

At 
30.09.12

11,826
0

20,302

20,302

Granted

Exercised

Cancelled

At 
05.10.13

Option price 
(p)

Exercisable 
from

–
7,330

11,826
0

0

–

0

–

–
0

0

–

0
7,330

20,302

20,302

76.10
122.77

76.10

76.10

01.09.13
01.09.16

01.09.15

01.09.15

52 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013Directors’ pensions
Defined contribution scheme
The Group makes contributions into the Group Personal Pension Plan (GPPP) on behalf of Andrew Andrea. A rate of 20% of base salary 
(paid partly as a GPPP contribution and partly as a taxable cash supplement) is payable in return for a minimum personal contribution of 
7.5%. For the period ended 5 October 2013, the Group contribution for Andrew Andrea was £61,800, being £20,342 pension 
contribution and a salary supplement of £41,458.

In 2012/3 Ralph Findlay received a taxable cash supplement of 25% of basic salary in lieu of pension contributions.

Defined benefit scheme
The following Directors accrued benefits under the Marston’s Scheme:

Peter Dalzell
Ralph Findlay
David Thompson

Change in 
accrued 
pension 
over 2012/13 
excluding 
increase for 
inflation 
£

Transfer Value 
at 30.09.13 
£

Transfer Value 
at 30.09.12 
£

14,570
(1,029)
1,195

670,561
1,863,646
3,646,612

473,784
1,772,263
3,304,427

Change in 
Transfer 
Value over 
2012/13 net 
of members’ 
contributions
£

196,777
91,383
342,185

Transfer Value 
of the increase 
in the accrued 
pension 
£

170,960
39,882
137,760

Accrued 
pension at 
30.09.13 
£

61,828
105,793
180,783

Notes to the table:
1.  The accrued pension is the amount that the Director would receive annually on retirement based on service to the end of the period 

(or to date of leaving).

2.  The change in accrued pension during the period reflects that inflation over the period has been 3.2%, being the measure of RPI to 

September 2013.

3.  The Transfer Values at 30 September 2013 are calculated in accordance with the cash equivalent transfer value basis adopted by the 

Trustee on 5 September 2012 after taking advice from the Scheme Actuary.

4.  David Thompson ceased to contribute to and be an active member of the Marston’s Scheme as at 31 August 2013.

Additional information regarding the Marston’s Scheme:

1.  Normal retirement age is 60 for Ralph Findlay and David Thompson, and 65 for Peter Dalzell. Early retirement can be taken from age 

55 provided the Group gives its consent. The accrued pension will then be reduced to take account of its early payment.

2.  On death before retirement, a spouse’s pension is payable equal to one-third of the members’ pension for Ralph Findlay and Peter 
Dalzell, plus a lump sum is payable equal to the Director’s contributions (including those made via salary sacrifice). On death after 
retirement the spouse’s pension payable is two-thirds of the member’s pre-commutation pension for David Thompson, and 60% for 
Peter Dalzell and Ralph Findlay.

3.  The normal contribution rate for Peter Dalzell is 10.5%, paid by way of salary sacrifice.
4.  There are no discretionary benefits.

This report was approved by the Board and signed on its behalf by

Lord Hodgson
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee
28 November 2013

53 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013GovernanceSTATEMENT OF DIRECTORS’ RESPONSIBILITIES

Each of the Directors, whose names and functions are listed on 
pages 26 and 27 confirm that, to the best of their knowledge:
•	 the Group financial statements, which have been prepared in 
accordance with IFRS as adopted by the EU, give a true and 
fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit of 
the Group; and

•	 the Strategic Report contained on pages 1 to 25 includes a fair 
review of the development and performance of the business 
and the position of the Group, together with a description of 
the principal risks and uncertainties that it faces.

Disclosure of information to Auditors
In accordance with Section 418, Directors’ reports shall include a 
statement, in the case of each Director in office at the date the 
Directors’ report is approved, that:

(a) so far as the Director is aware, there is no relevant audit 

information of which the Company’s auditors are unaware; and

(b) each Director has taken all the steps that he/she ought to have 
taken as a Director in order to make himself/herself aware of 
any relevant audit information and to establish that the 
Company’s auditors are aware of that information.

Ralph Findlay 
Chief Executive Officer 
28 November 2013

Andrew Andrea
Chief Financial Officer

The Directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report, 
the Directors’ Remuneration Report and the financial statements 
in accordance with applicable law and regulations.

Company law requires the Directors to prepare financial 
statements for each financial year. Under that law the Directors 
have prepared the Group financial statements in accordance with 
International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by 
the European Union, and the parent Company financial 
statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally 
Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting 
Standards and applicable law). Under company law the Directors 
must not approve the financial statements unless they are 
satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of 
the Group and the Company and of the profit or loss of the Group 
for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the 
Directors are required to:
•	 select suitable accounting policies and then apply them 

consistently;

•	 make judgements and accounting estimates that are 

reasonable and prudent;

•	 state whether IFRS as adopted by the European Union and 
applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed, 
subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in 
the Group and parent Company financial statements 
respectively; and

•	 prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis 
unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Company will 
continue in business.

The Directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting 
records that are sufficient to show and explain the Company’s 
transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time 
the financial position of the Company and the Group and enable 
them to ensure that the financial statements and the Directors’ 
Remuneration Report comply with the Companies Act 2006 and, 
as regards the Group financial statements, Article 4 of the IAS 
Regulation. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets 
of the Company and the Group and hence for taking reasonable 
steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other 
irregularities.

The Directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of 
the Company’s website. Legislation in the United Kingdom 
governing the preparation and dissemination of financial 
statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions. 

The Directors consider that the annual report and accounts, 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.

54 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013 
 
FIVE YEAR RECORD

Revenue

Profit before exceptional items
Exceptional items

Profit/(loss) before taxation
Taxation*

Profit/(loss) after taxation

2009 
(52 weeks)
£m 

2010 
(52 weeks)
£m 

645.1 

70.3 
(48.9)

21.4 
(5.0)

16.4 

650.7 

73.5 
(21.0)

52.5 
(5.0)

47.5 

2011 
(52 weeks)
£m 

682.2 

80.4 
0.4 

80.8 
(12.0)

68.8 

2012 
(52 weeks)
£m 

719.7

87.8
(223.3)

(135.5)
25.2

(110.3)

2013 
(53 weeks)
£m 

782.9

88.4
(18.6)

69.8
(11.2)

58.6

Net assets

783.2 

780.5 

817.6 

762.0

841.9

Earnings/(loss) per ordinary share
Exceptional items

Earnings per ordinary share before exceptional items

3.9p
9.5p

13.4p

8.3p
1.7p

10.0p

12.1p
(0.9)p

11.2p

(19.4)p
31.7p

12.3p

10.3p
2.0p

12.3p

Dividend per ordinary share

7.1p

5.8p

5.8p

6.1p

6.4p

Retail Price Index
Earnings/(loss) per share performance
Earnings per share performance before exceptional items
Dividend performance

100.0
100.0
100.0
100.0

104.6
212.8
74.6
81.7

110.5
310.3
83.6
81.7

113.4
(497.4)
91.8
85.9

117.0
264.1
91.8
90.1

*   Taxation includes the tax impact on exceptional items together with exceptional credits of £3.1 million in 2013, £2.1 million in 2012, £5.0 million in 2011 and £2.1 million in 

2010 in respect of the change in corporation tax rate.

55 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT TO THE MEMBERS  
OF MARSTON’S PLC

REPORT ON THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Our opinion  
In our opinion the Group financial statements:
•	 give a true and fair view of the state of the Group’s affairs as at 
5 October 2013 and of the Group’s profit and cash flows for 
the 53 week period then ended;

•	 have been properly prepared in accordance with International 

Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by the 
European Union; and

•	 have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of 
the Companies Act 2006 and Article 4 of the IAS Regulation.

This opinion is to be read in the context of what we say below.

What we have audited
The Group financial statements, which are prepared by Marston’s 
PLC, comprise:
•	 the Group Balance Sheet as at 5 October 2013;
•	 the Group Income Statement and Group Statement of 

Comprehensive Income for the 53 week period then ended;
•	 the Group Statement of Changes in Equity and Group Cash 
Flow Statement for the 53 week period then ended; and
•	 the notes to the Group financial statements, which include a 

summary of significant accounting policies and other 
explanatory information.

The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their 
preparation comprises applicable law and IFRS as adopted by the 
European Union.

What an audit of financial statements involves 
We conducted our audit in accordance with International 
Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland) (ISAs (UK & Ireland)).

An audit involves obtaining evidence about the amounts and 
disclosures in the financial statements sufficient to give 
reasonable assurance that the financial statements are free from 
material misstatement, whether caused by fraud or error. This 
includes an assessment of:
•	 whether the accounting policies are appropriate to the Group’s 

circumstances and have been consistently applied and 
adequately disclosed;

•	 the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made 

by the Directors; and 

•	 the overall presentation of the financial statements. 

In addition, we read all the financial and non-financial information 
in the Annual Report and Accounts to identify material 
inconsistencies with the audited Group financial statements and 
to identify any information that is apparently materially incorrect 
based on, or materially inconsistent with, the knowledge acquired 
by us in the course of performing the audit. If we become aware 
of any apparent material misstatements or inconsistencies we 
consider the implications for our report.

Overview of our audit approach
Materiality
We set certain thresholds for materiality. These helped us to 
determine the nature, timing and extent of our audit procedures 
and to evaluate the effect of misstatements, both individually and 
on the financial statements as a whole. 

Based on our professional judgement, we determined materiality 
for the Group financial statements as a whole to be £4.5 million.

We agreed with the Audit Committee that we would report to 
them misstatements identified during our audit above £0.2 million 
as well as misstatements below that amount that, in our view, 
warranted reporting for qualitative reasons. 

Overview of the scope of our audit
The Group is structured along four business lines, being 
Destination and Premium, Taverns, Leased and Brewing, together 
with Group Services. The Group financial statements are a 
consolidation of subsidiaries, principally comprising the Group’s 
operating businesses, property companies, holding companies 
and an insurance company. 

In establishing the overall approach to the Group audit, we 
determined the type of work that needed to be performed, and 
each active subsidiary and business line was subject to audit. 
This gave us the evidence we needed for our opinion on the 
Group financial statements as a whole.

Areas of particular audit focus
In preparing the financial statements, the Directors made a 
number of subjective judgements, for example in respect of 
significant accounting estimates that involved making 
assumptions and considering future events that are inherently 
uncertain. We primarily focused our work in these areas by 
assessing the Directors’ judgements against available evidence, 
forming our own judgements, and evaluating the disclosures in 
the financial statements.

In our audit, we tested and examined information, using sampling 
and other auditing techniques, to the extent we considered 
necessary to provide a reasonable basis for us to draw 
conclusions. We obtained audit evidence through testing the 
effectiveness of controls, substantive procedures or a 
combination of both. 

We considered the following areas to be those that required 
particular focus in the current year. This is not a complete list of all 
risks or areas of audit focus identified by our audit. We discussed 
these areas of focus with the Audit Committee. Their report on 
those matters that they considered to be significant issues in 
relation to the financial statements is set out on page 37.

56 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013Area of focus
Valuation of properties
We focused on the Directors’ annual assessment of the carrying 
value of land and buildings because properties are a significant 
item on the balance sheet and there are complex and subjective 
assumptions used in the valuations, including the future expected 
performance of pubs.

Disclosure of items as ‘exceptional’
The financial statements include certain items which are disclosed 
as exceptional. 

We focused on this area because exceptional items are not 
defined by IFRS as adopted by the European Union and it 
therefore requires judgement by the Directors to identify such 
items. Consistency in identifying and disclosing items as 
exceptional is important to maintain comparability of the results 
with previous years. 
Accounting for uncertain tax positions
The Group has a number of outstanding corporate and indirect 
tax positions where recognition in the financial statements is 
judgemental given the uncertainty of settlement. 

We focused on this area because these matters have not yet been 
resolved with HM Revenue & Customs and the Directors have had 
to make judgements about the recognition or non-recognition of 
the benefits associated with the tax positions.
Fraud in revenue recognition 
ISAs (UK & Ireland) presume there is a risk of fraud in revenue 
recognition because of the pressure management may feel to 
achieve the planned results. We focused in particular on the 
recognition of revenue within the Brewing segment. This was 
identified as a risk due to the large number of deliveries and the 
existence of discounts which could have a material impact on 
revenue if misstated. 
Risk of management override of internal controls 
ISAs (UK & Ireland) require that we consider this. 

How the scope of our audit addressed the area of focus
We obtained the Directors’ valuation and impairment analysis and 
discussed with the Group’s estates team. We also considered any 
further market indicators including changes in macroeconomic 
and consumer trends and recent transactions and the associated 
multiples. We challenged the assumptions on future earnings and 
multiples applied by management and considered the impact of 
movements in key assumptions. 
We assessed the appropriateness of the Group’s accounting 
policy and whether those items disclosed as exceptional were 
consistent with the accounting policy and the approach taken in 
previous accounting periods. 

We assessed whether other non-recurring items should have 
been classified as exceptional and discussed this with the 
Directors and the Audit Committee to check whether items 
meeting the criteria in the Group’s accounting policy had been 
identified and whether the treatment was consistent year on year. 
We have examined correspondence with HM Revenue & Customs 
and any legal challenges and assessed the position taken by the 
Directors’ in respect of these uncertainties. We have evaluated the 
appropriateness of the recognition or non-recognition of the 
benefits associated with these tax positions. 

Our procedures included testing that delivery requirements were 
satisfied where appropriate and that revenue generated at point of 
sale was reconciled to cash receipts net of discounts

We also responded to the risk that manual adjustments could 
override standard procedures to misstate revenue by auditing 
manual journals relating to revenue. 

We assessed the overall control environment and tested key 
reconciliations and manual journal entries. We considered whether 
there was evidence of bias by the Directors in the significant 
accounting estimates and judgements relevant to the financial 
statements. 

Going Concern
Under the Listing Rules we are required to review the Directors’ statement, set out on page 29, in relation to going concern. We have 
nothing to report having performed our review.

As noted in the Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities, set out on page 54, the Directors have concluded that it is appropriate to 
prepare the Group’s financial statements using the going concern basis of accounting. The going concern basis presumes that the 
Group has adequate resources to remain in operation, and that the Directors intend it to do so, for at least one year from the date the 
financial statements were signed. As part of our audit we have concluded that the Directors’ use of the going concern basis is 
appropriate.

However, because not all future events or conditions can be predicted, these statements are not a guarantee as to the Group’s ability  
to continue as a going concern.

57 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT TO THE MEMBERS  
OF MARSTON’S PLC CONTINUED

OPINION ON MATTER PRESCRIBED BY THE COMPANIES 
ACT 2006

In our opinion the information given in the Strategic Report and 
the Directors’ Report for the financial period for which the Group 
financial statements are prepared is consistent with the Group 
financial statements.

OTHER MATTERS ON WHICH WE ARE REQUIRED TO 
REPORT BY EXCEPTION

Adequacy of information and explanations received
Under the Companies Act 2006 we are required to report to you 
if, in our opinion we have not received all the information and 
explanations we require for our audit. We have no exceptions to 
report arising from this responsibility.

Directors’ remuneration
Under the Companies Act 2006 we are required to report if, in our 
opinion, certain disclosures of Directors’ remuneration specified 
by law have not been made, and under the Listing Rules we are 
required to review certain elements of the Report to shareholders 
by the Board on Directors’ remuneration. We have no exceptions 
to report arising from these responsibilities.

Corporate Governance Statement
On page 54 of the Annual Report, as required by the Code 
Provision C.1.1, the Directors state that they consider the Annual 
Report taken as a whole to be fair, balanced and understandable 
and provides the information necessary for members to assess 
the Group’s performance, business model and strategy. On page 
37, as required by C3.8 of the Code, the Audit Committee has set 
out the significant issues that it considered in relation to the 
financial statements, and how they were addressed. Under ISAs 
(UK & Ireland) we are required to report to you if, in our opinion:
•	 the statement given by the Directors is materially inconsistent 
with our knowledge of the Group acquired in the course of 
performing our audit; or

•	 the section of the Annual Report describing the work of the 
Audit Committee does not appropriately address matters 
communicated by us to the Audit Committee.

We have no exceptions to report arising from this responsibility.

Other information in the Annual Report
Under ISAs (UK & Ireland), we are required to report to you if, in 
our opinion, information in the Annual Report is:
•	 materially inconsistent with the information in the audited 

Group financial statements; or

•	 apparently materially incorrect based on, or materially 

inconsistent with, our knowledge of the Group acquired in the 
course of performing our audit; or

•	 is otherwise misleading.

We have no exceptions to report arising from this responsibility.

RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
AND THE AUDIT

Our responsibilities and those of the Directors 
As explained more fully in the Statement of Directors’ 
Responsibilities set out on page 54, the Directors are responsible 
for the preparation of the Group financial statements and for being 
satisfied that they give a true and fair view. 

Our responsibility is to audit and express an opinion on the Group 
financial statements in accordance with applicable law and ISAs 
(UK & Ireland). Those standards require us to comply with the 
Auditing Practices Board’s Ethical Standards for Auditors. 

This report, including the opinions, has been prepared for and 
only for the Company’s members as a body in accordance with 
Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006 and for no other 
purpose. We do not, in giving these opinions, accept or assume 
responsibility for any other purpose or to any other person to 
whom this report is shown or into whose hands it may come save 
where expressly agreed by our prior consent in writing.

OTHER MATTER 

We have reported separately on the parent Company financial 
statements of Marston’s PLC for the 53 week period ended  
5 October 2013 and on the information in the Directors’ 
Remuneration Report that is described as having been audited.

Mark Smith (Senior Statutory Auditor)
for and on behalf of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditors
Birmingham
28 November 2013 

58 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013GROUP INCOME STATEMENT
For the 53 weeks ended 5 October 2013

Revenue
Operating expenses*

Operating profit/(loss)

Finance costs
Finance income
Movement in fair value of interest rate swaps

Net finance costs

Profit/(loss) before taxation
Taxation

Profit/(loss) for the period attributable  

to equity shareholders

Earnings/(loss) per share:
Basic earnings/(loss) per share
Basic earnings per share before exceptional items
Diluted earnings/(loss) per share
Diluted earnings per share before exceptional items

Note

2, 3
3, 4

2

6
6
4, 6

4, 6

4, 7

9
9
9
9

2013

Before 
exceptional 
items 
£m 

Exceptional 
items 
£m 

782.9
(614.6)

168.3

(82.3)
2.4
–

(79.9)

88.4
(18.4)

–
(21.6)

(21.6)

(0.5)
–
3.5

3.0

(18.6)
7.2

Before 
exceptional 
  items 
£m 

719.7
(561.8)

157.9

(70.8)
0.7
– 

(70.1)

87.8
(17.9)

Total 
£m 

782.9
(636.2)

146.7

(82.8)
2.4
3.5

(76.9)

69.8
(11.2)

2012

Exceptional 
items 
£m 

– 
(215.1)

(215.1)

(26.2)
15.1
2.9

(8.2)

(223.3)
43.1

Total   
£m   

719.7
(776.9)

(57.2)

(97.0)
15.8
2.9

(78.3)

(135.5)
25.2

70.0

(11.4)

58.6

69.9

(180.2)

(110.3)

10.3p
12.3p
10.2p
12.2p

(19.4)p
12.3p
(19.4)p
12.2p

GROUP STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
For the 53 weeks ended 5 October 2013

Profit/(loss) for the period

Items of other comprehensive income that may subsequently be reclassified to profit or loss
Gains/(losses) arising on cash flow hedges
Transfers to the income statement on cash flow hedges
Tax on items that may subsequently be reclassified to profit or loss

Items of other comprehensive income that will not be reclassified to profit or loss
Actuarial gains/(losses) on retirement benefits
Unrealised surplus on revaluation of properties*
Reversal of past revaluation surplus*
Tax on items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss

Other comprehensive income for the period

Total comprehensive income/(expense) for the period

2013 
£m 

58.6

24.9
24.7
(15.0)

34.6

3.6
2.1
–
14.7

20.4

55.0

113.6

2012 
£m 

(110.3)

(54.7)
21.5
5.0

(28.2)

(45.2)
329.9
(136.9)
(31.9)

115.9

87.7

(22.6)

*   During the prior period a revaluation of the Group’s freehold and leasehold properties was undertaken, resulting in a net decrease in property values of £21.6 million. An 

unrealised surplus on revaluation of £329.9 million, and a reversal of past revaluation surplus of £136.9 million, were recognised in the revaluation reserve, and a net charge 
of £214.6 million was recognised in the income statement. Further detail is provided in notes 4, 11, 12 and 15 to the financial statements.

59 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013GROUP CASH FLOW STATEMENT
For the 53 weeks ended 5 October 2013

Operating activities
Operating profit before exceptional items
Depreciation and amortisation

EBITDA before exceptional items
Exceptional operating items

EBITDA after exceptional items
Working capital and non-cash movements 
Difference between defined benefit pension contributions paid and amounts charged
Income tax paid

Net cash inflow from operating activities

Investing activities
Interest received
Sale of property, plant and equipment and assets held for sale
Purchase of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets
Movement in other non-current assets

Net cash outflow from investing activities

Financing activities
Equity dividends paid
Interest paid
Arrangement costs of bank facilities
Arrangement costs of other lease related borrowings
Proceeds of ordinary share capital issued
Repayment of securitised debt
Repayment of bank loans
Advance of bank loans
Capital element of finance leases repaid
Advance of other lease related borrowings

Net cash outflow from financing activities

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

Note

29

8

30

2013 
£m 

168.3
35.8

204.1
(20.3)

183.8
8.9
(15.2)
(8.1)

169.4

0.5
44.7
(150.8)
1.5

(104.1)

(35.3)
(78.3)
(0.1)
(7.0)
1.1
(22.7)
–
16.0
(0.3)
94.6

(32.0)

33.3

2012 
£m 

157.9
40.7

198.6
(215.1)

(16.5)
210.1
(12.9)
(12.3)

168.4

0.6
48.3
(129.8)
2.8

(78.1)

(33.5)
(73.3)
(3.5)
– 
0.2
(21.4)
(126.0)
175.0
– 
– 

(82.5)

7.8

60 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013GROUP BALANCE SHEET
As at 5 October 2013

ASSETS
Non-current assets
Goodwill
Other intangible assets
Property, plant and equipment
Deferred tax assets
Other non-current assets

Current assets
Inventories
Trade and other receivables
Derivative financial instruments
Cash and cash equivalents

Assets held for sale

LIABILITIES
Current liabilities
Borrowings
Derivative financial instruments
Trade and other payables
Current tax liabilities

Non-current liabilities
Borrowings
Derivative financial instruments
Retirement benefit obligations
Deferred tax liabilities
Other non-current liabilities
Provisions for other liabilities and charges

Net assets

Shareholders’ equity
Equity share capital
Share premium account
Revaluation reserve
Capital redemption reserve
Hedging reserve
Own shares
Retained earnings

Total equity

 5 October 
2013 
£m 

 29 September 
2012 
£m 

Note

10
11
12
22
13

14
16
18
30

224.2
24.1
2,063.6
47.3
12.8

2,372.0

21.5
69.0
6.8
94.1

224.2
23.5
1,995.6
71.4
14.3

2,329.0

22.2
62.5
13.7
60.8

191.4

159.2

15

59.9

39.2

17
18
21

17
18
25
22
23
24

27

28

28

(22.7)
(6.8)
(174.3)
(25.9)

(229.7)

(1,262.4)
(134.6)
(5.1)
(135.5)
(0.5)
(13.6)

(21.3)
(14.1)
(156.9)
(23.4)

(215.7)

(1,160.6)
(187.3)
(24.5)
(159.0)
(0.6)
(17.7)

(1,551.7)

(1,549.7)

841.9

762.0

44.4
333.8
575.3
6.8
(95.0)
(130.9)
107.5

841.9

44.3
332.8
560.4
6.8
(129.6)
(130.9)
78.2

762.0

The financial statements on pages 59 to 96 were approved by the Board on 28 November 2013 and signed on its behalf by:

Ralph Findlay
Chief Executive Officer
28 November 2013

61 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013GROUP STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
For the 53 weeks ended 5 October 2013

Equity 
share 
capital 
£m 

44.3 

Share 
premium 
account 
£m 

332.8

Revaluation  
reserve 
£m 

Capital 
redemption 
reserve 
£m 

560.4

6.8

Hedging 
reserve 
£m 

(129.6)

Own 
 shares 
£m 

(130.9)

At 30 September 2012

Profit for the period
Actuarial gains
Tax on actuarial gains
Post-retirement medical benefits
Gains on cash flow hedges
Transfers to the income statement on 

cash flow hedges

Tax on hedging reserve movements
Property revaluation
Deferred tax on properties

Total comprehensive income

Share-based payments
Tax on share-based payments
Issue of shares
Disposal of properties
Transfer to retained earnings
Dividends paid

Total transactions with owners

At 5 October 2013

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  
–  
–  
–  

–  

–  
–  

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  
–  
–  
–  

–  

–  
–  

0.1

–  
–  
–  

0.1

44.4

1.0

–  
–  
–  

1.0

333.8

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  
–  

2.1
15.6

17.7

–  
–  
–  
(2.1)
(0.7)
–  

(2.8)

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  
–  
–  
–  

–  

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  

–  
–  
–  
–  

24.9

24.7
(15.0)
–  
–  

34.6

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  
–  
–  
–  

–  

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  

Retained 
earnings 
£m 

78.2

58.6
3.5
(0.9)
0.1

–  

–  
–  
–  
–  

Total 
equity 
£m 

762.0

58.6
3.5
(0.9)
0.1
24.9

24.7
(15.0)
2.1
15.6

61.3

113.6

0.2
0.3

–  

2.1
0.7
(35.3)

(32.0)

0.2
0.3
1.1

–  
–  
(35.3)

(33.7)

575.3

6.8

(95.0)

(130.9)

107.5

841.9

Equity 
share 
capital 
£m 

Share 
premium 
account 
£m 

Merger  
reserve  
£m  

Revaluation   

reserve 
£m 

Capital 
redemption 
reserve 
£m 

Hedging 
reserve 
£m 

Own 
 shares 
£m 

Retained 
earnings 
£m 

Total 
equity 
£m 

At 2 October 2011

44.3 

332.6 

41.5 

411.4 

6.8 

(101.4)

(130.9)

213.3 

817.6 

Loss for the period
Actuarial losses
Tax on actuarial losses
Post-retirement medical benefits
Losses on cash flow hedges
Transfers to the income statement on 

cash flow hedges

Tax on hedging reserve movements
Property revaluation
Property impairment
Deferred tax on properties

Total comprehensive income/(expense)

Share-based payments
Tax on share-based payments
Issue of shares
Disposal of properties
Transfer to retained earnings
Dividends paid

Total transactions with owners

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  

–  
–  

0.2

–  
–  
–  

0.2

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  

–  
–  
–  
–  
(41.5) 
–  

(41.5) 

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  
–  

329.9
(136.9)
(42.6)

150.4 

–  
–  
–  
(1.1)
(0.3)
–  

(1.4)

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  

–  
–  
–  
–  
(54.7)

21.5  
5.0  
–  
–  
–  

(28.2)

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

–  

At 29 September 2012

44.3

332.8

– 

560.4

6.8

(129.6)

(130.9)

(110.3)
(45.0)
10.7
(0.2)
–  

–  
–  
–  
–  
–  

(110.3)
(45.0)
10.7
(0.2)
(54.7)

21.5
5.0
329.9
(136.9)
(42.6)

(144.8)

(22.6)

0.2
0.1

–  

1.1
41.8
(33.5)

9.7

78.2

0.2
0.1
0.2

–  
–  
(33.5)

(33.0)

762.0

Further detail in respect of the Group’s equity is provided in notes 27 and 28 to the financial statements.

62 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013NOTES
For the 53 weeks ended 5 October 2013

1.  ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of preparation
These consolidated financial statements for the 53 weeks ended 5 October 2013 (2012: 52 weeks ended 29 September 2012) have been 
prepared in accordance with IFRS and International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee (IFRIC) and Standing Interpretations 
Committee (SIC) interpretations adopted by the European Union and with those parts of the Companies Act 2006 applicable to companies 
reporting under IFRS. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention as modified by the revaluation of 
certain items, principally land and buildings, derivative financial instruments, retirement benefits and share-based payments.

New standards and interpretations
The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and IFRIC have issued the following new or revised standards and interpretations 
with an effective date for financial periods beginning on or after the dates disclosed below and therefore after the date of these financial 
statements:

IFRS 1

IFRS 7

IFRS 9

IFRS 10 

IFRS 11 

IFRS 12 

IFRS 13 

IAS 19

IAS 27

IAS 28

IAS 32

IAS 36

IAS 39

First-time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards 
Amendments for government loan with a below-market rate of interest when transitioning to IFRS

Financial Instruments: Disclosures
Amendments relating to the offsetting of assets and liabilities

Financial Instruments: Classification and Measurement 
New accounting standard

Consolidated Financial Statements 
New accounting standard

Joint Arrangements 
New accounting standard

Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities 
New accounting standard

Fair Value Measurement 
New accounting standard

Employee Benefits 
Amended standard resulting from the Post-Employment Benefits and Termination Benefits projects

Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements 
Reissued as IAS 27 Separate Financial Statements (as amended in 2011)

Investments in Associates 
Reissued as IAS 28 Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures (as amended in 2011)

Financial Instruments: Presentation 
Amendments relating to the offsetting of assets and liabilities

Impairment of Assets 
Amendments arising from Recoverable Amount Disclosures for Non-Financial Assets

Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement 
Amendments for novations of derivatives

IFRIC 20

Stripping Costs in the Production Phase of a Surface Mine

IFRIC 21

Levies

1 January 2013

1 January 2013

1 January 2015

1 January 2013

1 January 2013

1 January 2013

1 January 2013

1 January 2013

1 January 2013

1 January 2013

1 January 2014

1 January 2014

1 January 2014

1 January 2013

1 January 2014

The IASB have also issued a number of minor amendments to standards as part of their Annual Improvements to IFRS.

Adopting the amendments to IAS 19 will require the Group to recognise a single net interest component in respect of its defined benefit 
pension scheme, calculated by applying the discount rate to the net defined benefit liability/asset. If the Group had adopted the revised 
standard in the current period there would have been net expense of £2.2 million in respect of the defined benefit pension scheme 
rather than net income of £0.1 million.

The Directors do not anticipate that the adoption of any of the other above new standards or amendments will have a material impact on 
the Group’s reported income or net assets in the period of adoption.

Basis of consolidation
The consolidated financial statements incorporate the audited financial statements of Marston’s PLC and all of its subsidiary undertakings. The 
results of new subsidiary undertakings are included in the Group accounts from the date on which control transferred to the Group or, in the 
case of disposals, up to the effective date of disposal. Transactions between Group companies are eliminated on consolidation.

63 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013 
1.  ACCOUNTING POLICIES CONTINUED

The Group has applied the purchase method in accounting for the acquisition of subsidiaries. The cost of an acquisition is measured as the 
fair value of the consideration paid and deferred. Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination are measured 
initially at their fair values at the acquisition date. Acquisition costs are expensed as incurred. The excess of the cost of acquisition over the fair 
value of the Group’s share of the identifiable net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. If the cost of acquisition is less than the fair value of 
the Group’s share of the identifiable net assets of the subsidiary acquired, the difference is recognised immediately in the income statement.

The consolidated financial statements also incorporate the results of Marston’s Issuer PLC, a company set up with the sole purpose of 
issuing debt secured on assets owned by the Group. The Directors of Marston’s PLC consider this company meets the definition of a 
special purpose entity under SIC 12 ‘Consolidation – Special Purpose Entities’ and hence for the purpose of the consolidated financial 
statements it has been treated as a subsidiary undertaking.

Revenue and other operating income
Revenue represents the value of goods (principally drink and food) and services (principally accommodation, gaming machines and 
third party brewing and packaging) supplied to customers, and rents receivable from licensed properties. Revenue from drink, food, 
accommodation, brewing and packaging is recognised at the point at which the goods or services are provided. Gaming machine 
income is recognised as earned. Rental income is recognised in the period to which it relates. Revenue is recorded net of discounts, 
intra group transactions, VAT and excise duty relating to the brewing and packaging of certain products. Other operating income 
comprises mainly rents receivable from unlicensed properties, which is recognised in the period to which it relates.

Operating segments
For segment reporting purposes the Group is considered to have five distinguishable operating segments, being Destination and 
Premium, Taverns, Leased, Brewing and Group Services. This mirrors the Group’s internal reporting structure, and reflects the different 
distribution channels, customer profiles and nature of products and services provided within each segment. An element of Group 
Services’ costs is allocated to each of the trading segments.

The operating segments set out in note 2 are consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating decision maker. For 
the purposes of IFRS 8 the chief operating decision maker has been identified as the Executive Directors.

Acquired businesses are treated as separate reporting segments, where material, until they have been fully integrated with the Group’s 
operating segments.

Exceptional items
Exceptional items are defined as those items that, by virtue of their nature, size or expected frequency, warrant separate additional 
disclosure in the financial statements in order to fully understand the underlying performance of the Group. As management of the 
freehold and leasehold property estate is an essential and significant area of the business, the threshold for classification of property 
related items as exceptional is higher than other items.

Intangible assets
Intangible assets are carried at cost less accumulated amortisation and any impairment losses. Intangible assets arising on acquisition 
of subsidiaries are recognised separately from goodwill if the fair value of these assets can be identified separately and measured 
reliably.

Amortisation is calculated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the intangible asset. Where the useful life of the asset 
is considered to be indefinite no annual amortisation is provided but the asset is subject to annual impairment reviews. Impairment 
reviews are carried out more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an asset may be 
impaired.

The useful lives of the Group’s intangible assets are:

Acquired brands  
Lease premiums 
Computer software 
Development costs 

Indefinite
Life of the lease
5 to 15 years
10 years

Any impairment of carrying value is charged to the income statement.

Research and development expenditure
All expenditure on the research phase of an internal project is expensed as incurred.

64 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013NOTES CONTINUEDFor the 53 weeks ended 5 October 20131.  ACCOUNTING POLICIES CONTINUED

Development costs are recognised as an intangible asset when the following conditions are met:

•	 It is technically feasible to complete the intangible asset so that it will be available for use;
•	 Management intends to complete the asset and use or sell it;
•	 There is an ability to use or sell the asset;
•	 It can be demonstrated how the asset will generate probable future economic benefits;
•	 Adequate technical, financial and other resources to complete the development and to use or sell the asset are available; and
•	 The expenditure attributable to the asset during its development can be reliably measured.

Other development expenditure that does not meet these criteria is recognised as an expense as incurred. Development costs 
previously recognised as an expense are not recognised as an asset in a subsequent period.

Goodwill
Goodwill arising on acquisitions is capitalised and represents the excess of the fair value of the consideration given over the fair value of 
the identifiable net assets and liabilities acquired. Goodwill is not amortised but instead is reviewed for impairment on an annual basis, 
or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be impaired. Any impairment is recognised 
immediately in the income statement.

For the purposes of impairment testing, goodwill is allocated to cash generating units that are consistent with the Group’s operating 
segments.

Property, plant and equipment
•	 Freehold and leasehold properties are initially stated at cost and subsequently at valuation. Plant and machinery and fixtures, fittings, 

tools and equipment are stated at cost.

•	 Depreciation is charged to the income statement on a straight-line basis to provide for the cost of the assets less residual value over 

their useful lives.

•	 Freehold and long leasehold buildings are depreciated to residual value over 50 years.
•	 Short leasehold properties are depreciated over the life of the lease.
•	 Plant and machinery and fixtures, fittings, tools and equipment are depreciated over periods ranging from 3 to 15 years.
•	 Own labour and interest costs directly attributable to capital projects are capitalised.
•	 Land is not depreciated.

Residual values and useful lives are reviewed and adjusted if appropriate at each balance sheet date.

Properties are revalued by qualified valuers on a sufficiently regular basis using open market value so that the carrying value of an asset does 
not differ significantly from its fair value at the balance sheet date. Substantially all of the Group’s properties have been externally valued in 
accordance with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors’ Red Book. These valuations are performed directly by reference to observable 
prices in an active market or recent market transactions on arm’s length terms. Internal valuations are performed on the same basis.

The estate is reviewed for indication of impairment at each reporting date, using a process focusing on areas of risk and business 
performance throughout the portfolio to identify any exposure.

Impairment losses are charged to the revaluation reserve to the extent that a previous gain has been recorded, and thereafter to the 
income statement. Surpluses on revaluation are recognised in the revaluation reserve, except to the extent that they reverse previously 
charged impairment losses, in which case the reversal is recorded in the income statement.

Disposals of property, plant and equipment
Profit/loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment represents net sale proceeds less the carrying value of the assets. Any element 
of the revaluation reserve relating to the property disposed of is transferred to retained earnings at the date of sale.

Impairment
If there are indications of impairment or reversal of impairment, an assessment is made of the recoverable amount. An impairment loss 
is recognised where the recoverable amount is lower than the carrying value of assets, including goodwill. The recoverable amount is 
the higher of value in use and fair market value less costs to sell.

Where there is an indication that any previously recognised impairment losses no longer exist or have decreased, a reversal of the loss is made 
if there has been a change in the estimates used to determine the recoverable amounts since the last impairment loss was recognised. The 
carrying amount of the asset is increased to its recoverable amount only up to the carrying amount that would have resulted, net of 
depreciation or amortisation, had no impairment loss been recognised for the asset in prior periods. The reversal is recognised in the income 
statement unless the asset is carried at revalued amount. The reversal of an impairment loss on a revalued asset is recognised in other 
comprehensive income and increases the revaluation surplus for that asset. However, to the extent that an impairment loss on the same 
revalued asset was previously recognised in the income statement, the reversal of that impairment loss is recognised in the income statement. 
The depreciation charge is adjusted in future periods to allocate the asset’s revised carrying value, less any residual value, on a systematic 
basis over its remaining useful life. There is no reversal of impairment losses relating to goodwill.

65 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 20131.  ACCOUNTING POLICIES CONTINUED

Acquired brands are reviewed for impairment on a portfolio basis.

Leases
Leases are classified as finance leases if the terms of the lease transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to the lessee. 
All other leases are classified as operating leases.

The cost of assets held under finance leases is included within property, plant and equipment and depreciation is charged in 
accordance with the accounting policy for each class of asset concerned. The corresponding capital obligations under these leases are 
shown as liabilities. The finance charge element of rentals is charged to the income statement and classified within finance costs as 
incurred.

Rental costs under operating leases, including lease incentives, are charged to the income statement on a straight-line basis over the 
term of the lease. Similarly, income receivable under operating leases is credited to the income statement on a straight-line basis over 
the term of the lease.

Obligations arising from sale and leaseback arrangements with repurchase options that do not fall within the scope of IAS 17 ‘Leases’ 
are classified as other lease related borrowings and accounted for in accordance with IAS 39 ‘Financial Instruments: Recognition  
and Measurement’.

Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Raw materials are valued on a ‘first in, first out’ basis, with the 
exception of hops which are valued at average cost. Finished goods and work in progress include direct materials, labour and a 
proportion of attributable overheads.

Assets held for sale
Assets, typically properties and related fixtures and fittings, are categorised as held for sale when the value of the asset will be 
recovered through a sale transaction rather than continuing use. This condition is met when the sale is highly probable, the asset is 
available for immediate sale in its present condition and is being actively marketed. In addition, the Group must be committed to the sale 
and completion should be expected to occur within one year from the date of classification. Assets held for sale are valued at the lower 
of carrying value and fair value less costs to sell, and are no longer depreciated.

Financial instruments
The Group classifies its financial assets in one of the following two categories: at fair value through profit or loss and loans and 
receivables. The Group classifies its financial liabilities in one of the following two categories: at fair value through profit or loss and other 
financial liabilities. The classification depends on the purpose for which the financial instruments were acquired. Management 
determines the classification of the Group’s financial instruments at initial recognition.

Financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss
Derivatives are categorised as financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss unless they are designated as part of a hedge 
relationship. The Group holds no other financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss.

Loans and receivables
Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market. 
The Group’s loans and receivables comprise trade receivables, other receivables, trade loans and cash and cash equivalents in the 
balance sheet. Loans and receivables are carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Other financial liabilities
Non-derivative financial liabilities are classified as other financial liabilities. The Group’s other financial liabilities comprise borrowings, 
trade payables and other payables. Other financial liabilities are carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Financial assets are derecognised when the rights to receive cash flows from the investments have expired or have been transferred 
and the Group has transferred substantially all risks and rewards of ownership.

The Group assesses whether there is objective evidence that a financial asset is impaired at each balance sheet date.

It is, and has been throughout the period under review, the Group’s policy that no trading in financial instruments shall be undertaken.

Derivative financial instruments
The only derivative financial instruments that the Group enters into are interest rate swaps. The purpose of these transactions is to 
manage the interest rate risk arising from the Group’s operations and its sources of finance.

66 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013NOTES CONTINUEDFor the 53 weeks ended 5 October 20131.  ACCOUNTING POLICIES CONTINUED

Derivatives are initially recognised at fair value on the date the derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently remeasured at 
their fair value at each balance sheet date. The method of recognising the resulting gain or loss depends on whether the derivative is 
designated as a hedging instrument.

The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges is recognised in 
other comprehensive income. The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognised immediately in the income statement 
within exceptional finance income or costs.

Gains or losses arising from changes in the fair value of derivatives which are not designated as part of a hedging relationship are 
presented in the income statement within exceptional finance income or costs in the period in which they arise.

The fair value of a hedging derivative is classified as a non-current asset or liability when the remaining maturity of the hedged item is 
more than 12 months and as a current asset or liability when the remaining maturity of the hedged item is less than 12 months. The fair 
values of derivatives which are not designated as part of a hedging relationship are classified as current assets or liabilities. Accrued 
interest is recognised separately in current assets or liabilities as appropriate.

At the inception of a hedging transaction, the Group documents the relationship between hedging instruments and hedged items, as 
well as its risk management objectives and strategy for undertaking the hedging transaction. The Group also documents its 
assessment, both at hedge inception and on an ongoing basis, of whether the derivatives that are used in hedging transactions are 
highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of hedged items.

When a hedging instrument expires or is sold, or when a hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, any cumulative gain 
or loss existing in equity at that time remains in equity and is recognised when the forecast transaction is ultimately recognised in the 
income statement. When a forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur, the cumulative gain or loss that was reported in equity  
is immediately transferred to the income statement within exceptional finance income or costs.

Amounts that have been recognised in other comprehensive income in respect of cash flow hedges are reclassified from equity to profit 
and loss as a reclassification adjustment in the same period or periods during which the hedged forecast cash flow affects profit or loss.

Trade receivables and other receivables
Trade receivables and other receivables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost less provision 
for impairment. A provision for impairment of trade receivables and other receivables is established when there is objective evidence 
that the Group will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original terms of the receivables. Significant financial 
difficulties of the debtor, probability that the debtor will enter bankruptcy or financial reorganisation and default or delinquency in 
payments are considered indicators that the trade or other receivable is impaired. The amount of the provision is the difference between 
the asset’s carrying amount and the estimated future cash flows. The carrying amount of the asset is reduced through the use of an 
allowance account, and the amount of the loss is recognised in the income statement within other net operating charges. When a trade 
or other receivable is uncollectable, it is written off against the allowance account for trade or other receivables. Subsequent recoveries 
of amounts previously written off are credited against other net operating charges in the income statement.

Trade loans
In common with other major brewers, the Group makes trade loans to publicans who purchase the Group’s beer. These trade loans are 
classified as other non-current assets in the balance sheet and are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently at amortised cost 
less provision for impairment. Significant trade loans are secured against the property of the loan recipient.

Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand and deposits on call with banks. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in 
current liabilities. For the purpose of the cash flow statement, cash and cash equivalents are as defined above, net of outstanding  
bank overdrafts.

Borrowings
Borrowings are recognised initially at fair value, net of transaction costs incurred. Borrowings are subsequently stated at amortised cost; 
any difference between the proceeds (net of transaction costs) and the redemption value is recognised in the income statement over the 
period of the borrowings using the effective interest method.

Preference shares are classified as liabilities. The dividends on these preference shares are recognised in the income statement as 
finance costs.

Borrowing costs are recognised as an expense in the period in which they are incurred, except for gross interest costs incurred on the 
financing of major projects, which are capitalised until the time that the projects are available for use.

67 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 20131.  ACCOUNTING POLICIES CONTINUED

Trade payables and other payables
Trade payables and other payables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective 
interest method.

Employee benefits
Pension costs for the Group’s defined benefit pension scheme are determined by the Projected Unit Credit Method, with actuarial calculations 
being carried out at each period end date. Costs are recognised separately as operating and finance costs in the income statement. 
Operating costs comprise the current service cost, any income or expenses on settlements or curtailments and past service costs where the 
benefits have vested. Finance items comprise the interest on scheme liabilities and the expected return on scheme assets.

Actuarial gains or losses comprising differences between the actual and expected return on scheme assets, changes in scheme 
liabilities due to experience and changes in actuarial assumptions are recognised in full in the period in which they occur in the 
statement of comprehensive income.

The liability/asset recognised in the balance sheet for the defined benefit pension scheme is the present value of scheme liabilities less 
the fair value of scheme assets. Where the fair value of scheme assets exceeds the present value of scheme liabilities, the Group 
recognises an asset at the lower of the fair value of scheme assets less the present value of scheme liabilities, and the total of any 
cumulative unrecognised past service costs 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.

Pension costs for the Group’s defined contribution pension schemes are charged to the income statement in the period in which they arise.

Post-retirement medical benefits are accounted for in an identical way to the Group’s defined benefit pension scheme.

Key management personnel
Key management personnel are those who have authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities of the 
Group. In the case of Marston’s PLC, the Directors of the Group are considered to be the only key management personnel.

Current and deferred tax
The current tax charge is calculated on the basis of the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date and is 
measured at the amount expected to be paid to or recovered from the tax authorities.

Deferred tax is provided in full, using the liability method, on all differences that have originated but not reversed by the balance sheet 
date, and which give rise to an obligation to pay more or less tax in the future. Differences are defined as the differences between the 
carrying value of assets and liabilities and their tax base.

Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the assets 
can be utilised.

Deferred tax is calculated using tax rates that are expected to apply when the related deferred tax asset is realised or the deferred tax 
liability is settled.

Provisions
Provisions are recognised in the balance sheet when the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of a past event 
and it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation.

When valuations of leasehold properties (based on future estimated income streams) give rise to a deficit as a result of onerous lease 
conditions they are recognised as provisions. These provisions are measured at the present value of the expenditure expected to be required 
to settle the obligation using a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the 
obligation. The key assumptions used in the discounted cash flow calculation are the discount rate and the market rents and vacant periods of 
the properties.

Other contractual property costs are also recorded as provisions as appropriate.

Share-based payments
The fair value of share-based remuneration at the date of grant is calculated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model and charged 
to the income statement on a straight-line basis over the vesting period of the award. The charge to the income statement takes 
account of the estimated number of shares that will vest.

Non-vesting conditions are taken into account when determining the fair value of the Group’s share-based payments, and all 
cancellations of share-based payments, whether by the Group or by employees, are accounted for in an identical manner with any 
costs unrecognised at the date of cancellation being immediately accelerated.

68 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013NOTES CONTINUEDFor the 53 weeks ended 5 October 20131.  ACCOUNTING POLICIES CONTINUED

Own shares
Own shares consist of treasury shares, shares held within a Long Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) and shares held within an Executive Share 
Option Plan (ESOP), which are used for the granting of shares to applicable employees.

Own shares are recognised at cost as a deduction from shareholders’ equity. Subsequent consideration received for the sale of such 
shares is also recognised in equity, with any difference between the sale proceeds and the original cost being taken to equity. No 
income or expense is recognised in the performance statements on own share transactions.

Dividends
Dividends proposed by the Board but unpaid at the period end are recognised in the financial statements when they have been 
approved by the shareholders. Interim dividends are recognised when paid.

Transactions and balance sheet items in a foreign currency
Transactions in a foreign currency are translated to sterling using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction. Monetary receivables 
and payables are remeasured at closing day rates at each balance sheet date. Exchange gains or losses that arise from such 
remeasurement and on settlement of the transaction are recognised in the income statement. Translation differences for non-monetary 
assets valued at fair value through profit or loss are reported as part of the fair value gain or loss. Gains or losses on disposal of 
non-monetary assets are recognised in the income statement.

Key assumptions and significant judgements
IFRS requires the Group to make estimates and assumptions that affect the application of policies and reported amounts. Estimates 
and judgements are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors including expectations of future 
events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates. The Group’s key 
assumptions and significant judgements are in respect of property, plant and equipment, taxation, impairment, retirement benefits, 
financial instruments, property lease provisions, share-based payments and exceptional items. Details of these assumptions and 
judgements are set out in the relevant accounting policy and detailed note to the financial statements as set out below:

Property, plant and equipment
•	 Valuation of properties (see accounting policy).
•	 Assets’ useful lives and residual values (see accounting policy).

Taxation
•	 Assumptions in respect of the resolution of outstanding corporate and indirect tax matters with HM Revenue & Customs (see 

accounting policies for current and deferred tax and provisions).

Impairment
•	 Assumptions made in the value in use calculation, in particular the pre-tax discount rate applied to cash flow projections and the 

growth rate used to extrapolate projected cash flows beyond one year budgets (notes 10 and 11).

Retirement benefits
•	 Actuarial assumptions in respect of the defined benefit pension scheme, which include discount rates, rates of increase in 

pensionable salaries, rates of increase in pensions, inflation rates, expected returns on scheme assets and life expectancies (note 25).

Financial instruments
•	 Valuation of financial instruments that are not traded in an active market (note 20).

Property lease provisions
•	 Assumptions made in the discounted cash flow calculation, in particular market rents, vacant periods and discount rates (see 

accounting policy).

Share-based payments
•	

Inputs to the Black-Scholes option-pricing model, which include dividend yield, expected volatilities and risk free interest rates (note 26).

Exceptional items
•	 Determination of items to be classed as exceptional (see accounting policy).

69 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 20132.  SEGMENT REPORTING

For segment reporting purposes the Group is considered to have five distinguishable operating segments as follows:

Segment

Revenue

Destination and Premium 
Taverns
Leased
Brewing
Group Services

Food and drink sales, accommodation and gaming machine income
Food and drink sales, rent from licensed properties, accommodation and gaming machine income
Rent from licensed properties and gaming machine income
Drink sales and third party brewing and packaging
N/A

In the prior period the Group had four distinguishable operating segments being Managed Pubs, Tenanted and Franchised, Brewing and Group 
Services. The Group has now restructured how its pub operations are managed and reported. The five operating segments set out above 
reflect this new structure. The results for the 52 weeks ended 29 September 2012 have been restated to reflect these revised segments.

Transfer prices between operating segments are on an arm’s length basis.

53 weeks ended 5 October 2013

Income statement
Revenue
Less: sales to other segments

Operating expenses before exceptional items

Operating profit/(loss) before exceptional items
Exceptional items

Operating profit/(loss)
Finance costs
Finance income
Movement in fair value of interest rate swaps

Profit before taxation
Taxation

Profit for the period attributable to equity shareholders

Balance sheet
Segment assets

Unallocated assets
  Deferred tax assets
  Derivative financial instruments
  Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets

Segment liabilities

Unallocated liabilities
  Borrowings
  Current tax liabilities
  Retirement benefit obligations
  Deferred tax liabilities
  Derivative financial instruments

Total liabilities

Other segment information
Capital expenditure
  Intangible assets
  Property, plant and equipment
Amortisation of intangible assets
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment

70 

Destination 
and 
Premium 
£m 

349.2

–  

349.2
(278.9)

70.3
(6.6)

63.7

Taverns
£m 

Leased
£m 

Brewing 
£m 

250.8

–  

250.8
(181.3)

69.5
(7.0)

62.5

55.6

–  

55.6
(29.6)

26.0
(0.2)

25.8

171.1
(43.8)

127.3
(110.4)

16.9
(7.2)

9.7

Group 
Services 
£m 

–
 – 

 – 
(14.4)

(14.4)
(0.6)

(15.0)

Group 
£m 

826.7
(43.8)

782.9
(614.6)

168.3
(21.6)

146.7
(82.8)
2.4
3.5

69.8
(11.2)

58.6

1,057.7

849.6

348.7

180.8

38.3

2,475.1

47.3
6.8
94.1

2,623.3

(94.0)

(20.3)

(10.2)

(35.1)

(28.8)

(188.4)

(1,285.1)
(25.9)
(5.1)
(135.5)
(141.4)

(1,781.4)

0.2
121.1
0.3
14.3

–
23.6
0.2
9.3

–
5.7
–
2.0

–
15.4
–
8.4

1.5
6.0
0.5
2.1

1.7
171.8
1.0
36.1

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013NOTES CONTINUEDFor the 53 weeks ended 5 October 20132.  SEGMENT REPORTING CONTINUED

52 weeks ended 29 September 2012 (restated)

Income statement
Revenue
Less: sales to other segments

Operating expenses before exceptional items

Operating profit/(loss) before exceptional items
Exceptional items

Operating profit/(loss)
Finance costs
Finance income
Movement in fair value of interest rate swaps

Loss before taxation
Taxation

Loss for the period attributable to equity shareholders

Balance sheet
Segment assets

Unallocated assets
  Deferred tax assets
  Derivative financial instruments
  Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets

Segment liabilities

Unallocated liabilities
  Borrowings
  Current tax liabilities
  Retirement benefit obligations
  Deferred tax liabilities
  Derivative financial instruments

Total liabilities

Destination 
and 
Premium 
£m 

306.1

–  

306.1
(249.3)

56.8
(33.9)

22.9

Taverns 
£m 

Leased 
£m 

Brewing 
£m 

241.6

–  

241.6
(168.4)

73.2
(154.3)

(81.1)

58.3

–  

58.3
(32.3)

26.0
(22.2)

3.8

142.8
(29.1)

113.7
(97.3)

16.4
(3.7)

12.7

Group 
Services 
£m 

 – 
 – 

 – 
(14.5)

(14.5)
(1.0)

(15.5)

Group 
£m 

748.8
(29.1)

719.7
(561.8)

157.9
(215.1)

(57.2)
(97.0)
15.8
2.9

(135.5)
25.2

(110.3)

946.4

869.4

350.7

176.9

38.1

2,381.5

71.4
13.7
60.8

2,527.4

(89.4)

(20.9)

(10.4)

(32.5)

(22.0)

(175.2)

(1,181.9)
(23.4)
(24.5)
(159.0)
(201.4)

(1,765.4)

Other segment information
Capital expenditure
  Intangible assets
  Property, plant and equipment
Amortisation of intangible assets
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment
Revaluation/impairment of properties
  Income statement
  Revaluation reserve

0.3
81.9
0.3
14.0

0.4
34.0
0.3
12.9

(33.9)
202.9

(154.3)
(58.3)

– 
3.6
– 
2.7

(22.2)
42.9

0.1
8.0
– 
8.1

(3.7)
1.3

– 
4.0
0.4
2.0

(0.5)
4.2

0.8
131.5
1.0
39.7

(214.6)
193.0

Geographical areas
Revenue generated outside the United Kingdom during the period was £3.5 million (2012: £3.3 million).

71 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 20133.  REVENUE AND OPERATING EXPENSES

Revenue

Goods
Services

Revenue from services includes rents receivable from licensed properties of £24.3 million (2012: £28.2 million).

Operating expenses

Change in stocks of finished goods and work in progress
Own work capitalised
Other operating income
Raw materials, consumables and excise duties
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment
Amortisation of intangible assets
Employee costs
Hire of plant and machinery
Other operating lease rentals
Income from other non-current assets
Impairment of freehold and leasehold properties
Other net operating charges

2013 
£m 

722.3
60.6

782.9

2013 
£m 

0.6
(3.9)
(8.7)
268.9
36.1
1.0
166.6
0.8
11.2
(0.3)
(2.5)
166.4

636.2

2012 
£m 

657.9
61.8

719.7

2012 
£m 

(2.4)
(2.7)
(7.2)
239.4
39.7
1.0
154.1
0.8
10.5
(0.4)
215.1
129.0

776.9

An exceptional charge of £4.6 million (2012: £nil) is included in employee costs, an exceptional charge of £1.3 million (2012: £nil) is 
included in depreciation of property, plant and equipment and an exceptional charge of £15.7 million (2012: £nil) is included in other net 
operating charges.

Impairment of freehold and leasehold properties of £215.1 million was recognised as an exceptional item in the prior period.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP fees:

Fees payable to the Company’s Auditors for the audit of the Company’s annual accounts

Fees payable to the Company’s Auditors for other services to the Group:
  The audit of the Company’s subsidiaries
  Audit related assurance services

4.  EXCEPTIONAL ITEMS

Operating items
Reorganisation and non-core estate disposal costs
Write-off of cellar equipment 
Recognition of provision for repayment of Rank refunds received
Impairment of freehold and leasehold properties

Non-operating items
Interest on Rank refunds
Write-off of unamortised finance costs
Interest on outstanding tax liabilities
Transfer of cumulative hedging loss from equity to the income statement
Gain on recognition of interest rate swaps
Loss on recognition of interest rate swaps
Movement in fair value of interest rate swaps

72 

2013 
£m 

0.1

0.1
0.1

0.3

2013 
£m 

10.8
4.9
5.9
–

21.6

0.5
– 
–
– 
– 
– 
(3.5)

(3.0)

2012 
£m 

0.2

0.1
0.1

0.4

2012 
£m 

– 
– 
–
215.1

215.1

–
2.8 
3.7
0.8 
(15.1)
18.9 
(2.9)

8.2

18.6

223.3

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013NOTES CONTINUEDFor the 53 weeks ended 5 October 20134.  EXCEPTIONAL ITEMS CONTINUED

Reorganisation and non-core estate disposal costs
During the current period the Group restructured both its pub estate and its operating segments. An exceptional charge of £10.8 million, 
including the net loss on disposal of non-core properties, was recognised during the period in respect of this.

Write-off of cellar equipment
As part of a review of its fixed asset register the Group identified various items of cellar equipment which it assessed were no longer in 
use by the business and which would not have been utilised in the current period. These assets were subsequently written off with the 
charge and depreciation for the period shown as an exceptional item.

Rank refunds
In previous periods the Group received refunds totalling £5.9 million from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). This followed Tribunal/Court 
of Appeal hearings involving The Rank Group Plc (‘Rank’), which concluded that there had been a breach of fiscal neutrality in the 
treatment of gaming machine income as liable to UK VAT. HMRC issued protective assessments to recover the repayments pending the 
result of further Court hearings. On 30 October 2013 the Court of Appeal found in favour of HMRC and as such it is likely that the Group 
will be required to repay the refunds of £5.9 million plus interest of £0.5 million thereon. A provision for these amounts has therefore 
been recognised in the period.

Movement in fair value of interest rate swaps
The Group’s interest rate swaps are revalued to fair value at each balance sheet date. The movement in fair value of interest rate swaps 
which are not designated as part of a hedge relationship, and the ineffective portion of the movement in fair value of interest rate swaps 
which are accounted for as hedging instruments are both recognised in the income statement. The net gain of £3.5 million (2012: £2.9 
million) is shown as an exceptional item.

Impact of taxation
The current tax credit relating to the above exceptional items amounts to £1.8 million (2012: £3.0 million). The deferred tax credit relating 
to the above exceptional items amounts to £2.3 million (2012: £38.0 million). In addition, £3.1 million (2012: £2.1 million) has been 
credited as exceptional in relation to the change in corporation tax rate (note 7).

Prior period exceptional items
At 1 July 2012 the Group’s freehold and leasehold properties were revalued by independent chartered surveyors on an open market 
value basis. The resulting revaluation adjustments were taken to the revaluation reserve or income statement as appropriate. The 
amount recognised in the income statement comprised:

Impairment of other intangible assets (note 11)
Impairment of property, plant and equipment (note 12)
Reversal of impairment of property, plant and equipment (note 12)
Impairment of assets held for sale (note 15)
Valuation fees

2012 
£m 

0.8
214.5
(1.9)
1.2
0.5

215.1

During the prior period the Group entered into a new bank facility. As such the unamortised finance costs relating to the previous facility 
were written off.

During the prior period the Group recognised the interest on outstanding tax liabilities in respect of a number of tax issues under 
negotiation with HMRC.

The Group held an interest rate swap of £20.0 million which was designated as a cash flow hedge of the forecast floating rate interest 
payments arising on the first £20.0 million of borrowings under the Group’s previous bank facility. As the Group entered into a new bank 
facility in the prior period, these forecast transactions were no longer expected to occur. Therefore the cumulative hedging loss of £0.8 
million that had been reported in equity was transferred to the income statement.

On 22 March 2012 the Group entered into four new fixed-to-floating interest rate swaps of £35.0 million each. In total, these swaps were equal 
and opposite to the two existing floating-to-fixed interest rate swaps of £70.0 million each, which the Group entered into in order to fix the 
interest rate payable on the Group’s unsecured bank borrowings. The total fair value of the four new swaps at inception was £15.1 million.

On 22 March 2012 the Group also entered into two new floating-to-fixed interest rate swaps of £60.0 million each. Going forward these 
swaps will fix the interest rate on the Group’s unsecured bank borrowings. In total, the fair value of these two new swaps at inception 
was £(18.9) million.

Further details in respect of these swaps are given in note 20.

73 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013 
5.  EMPLOYEES

Employee costs

Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Pension costs
Share-based payments
Termination costs

An exceptional charge of £4.6 million (2012: £nil) is included in employee costs.

Average monthly number of employees

Bar staff
Management, administration and production

2013 
£m 

148.1
10.9
4.4
0.2
3.0

166.6

2012 
£m 

139.8
10.1
3.9
0.2
0.1

154.1

2013 
Number

10,611
2,117

2012 
Number 

10,176
2,113

Key management personnel
Directors’ emoluments are set out in the Directors’ Remuneration Report on pages 38 to 53. The total cost to the Group of the Directors’ 
remuneration for the period was £2.1 million (2012: £2.3 million), including employers’ national insurance, pension costs and share-based 
payments.

6.  FINANCE COSTS AND INCOME

Finance costs

Bank borrowings
Securitised debt
Finance leases
Other lease related borrowings
Other interest payable

Exceptional finance costs
Interest on Rank refunds
Write-off of unamortised finance costs
Interest on outstanding tax liabilities
Transfer of cumulative hedging loss from equity to the income statement
Loss on recognition of interest rate swaps

Total finance costs

Finance income
Deposit and other interest receivable
Net finance income in respect of retirement benefits

Exceptional finance income
Gain on recognition of interest rate swaps

Total finance income

Movement in fair value of interest rate swaps
Gain on movement in fair value of interest rate swaps
Loss on movement in fair value of interest rate swaps

Net finance costs

2013 
£m 

14.1
61.8
0.8
3.4
2.2

82.3

0.5
– 
–
– 
– 

0.5 

82.8

(1.7)
(0.7)

(2.4)

– 

– 

(2.4)

(10.4)
6.9

(3.5)

76.9

2012 
£m 

11.4
57.5
– 
– 
1.9

70.8

–
2.8 
3.7
0.8 
18.9 

26.2

97.0

(0.2)
(0.5)

(0.7)

(15.1)

(15.1)

(15.8)

(4.3)
1.4

(2.9)

78.3

Deposit and other interest receivable includes £1.5 million (2012: £nil) of interest in relation to income of £1.7 million (2012: £nil) from a VAT 
claim, which is included in other operating income.

74 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013NOTES CONTINUEDFor the 53 weeks ended 5 October 2013 
7.  TAXATION

Income statement

Current tax
  Current period
  Credit in respect of tax on exceptional items
  Adjustments in respect of prior periods

Deferred tax
  Current period
  Adjustments in respect of prior periods
  Exceptional credit in relation to impairments
  Exceptional (credit)/charge in respect of other exceptional items
  Exceptional credit in relation to the change in tax rate

Taxation charge/(credit) reported in the income statement

Statement of comprehensive income

Gains/(losses) on actuarial valuation of retirement benefits
Impairment and revaluation of properties
Gains/(losses) on cash flow hedges
Deferred tax credit in respect of the change in tax rate

Taxation charge reported in the statement of comprehensive income

Recognised directly in equity

Tax on share-based payments

Taxation credit recognised directly in equity

2013 
£m 

13.1
(1.8)
(0.5)

10.8

5.9
(0.1)
–
(2.3)
(3.1)

0.4

11.2

2013 
£m 

0.8
(1.7)
11.4
(10.2)

0.3

2013 
£m 

(0.3)

(0.3)

2012 
£m 

18.2
(3.0)
(1.9)

13.3

2.1
(0.5)
(38.8)
0.8
(2.1)

(38.5)

(25.2)

2012 
£m 

(11.2)
51.9
(8.3)
(5.5)

26.9

2012 
£m 

(0.1)

(0.1)

The actual tax rate for the period is lower (2012: higher) than the standard rate of corporation tax of 23.5% (2012: 25%). The differences 
are explained below:

Tax reconciliation

Profit/(loss) before tax

Profit/(loss) before tax multiplied by the corporation tax rate of 23.5% (2012: 25%)
Effect of:
Adjustments to tax in respect of prior periods
Net deferred tax (credit)/charge in respect of land and buildings
Costs not deductible for tax purposes
Impact of change in tax rate

Current period taxation charge/(credit)

2013 
£m 

69.8

16.4

(0.6)
(1.9)
0.4
(3.1)

11.2

2012 
£m 

(135.5)

(33.9)

(2.4)
12.8
0.4
(2.1)

(25.2)

The March 2012 Budget announced that the standard rate of corporation tax would change from 26% to 24% with effect from 1 April 
2012. Accordingly, the Group’s losses for the prior period were taxed at an effective rate of 25%. The Budget also announced a further 
reduction in the standard rate of corporation tax from 24% to 22% phased in over two years at 1% per annum from April 2013. The 
change from 24% to 23% with effect from 1 April 2013 was enacted in the Finance Act 2012 in July 2012. As such an exceptional 
deferred tax credit of £2.1 million was recognised in the prior period and the Group’s profits for the current period have been taxed at an 
effective rate of 23.5%.

The December 2012 Autumn Statement announced that the standard rate of corporation tax would now change from 23% to 21% with 
effect from 1 April 2014. The March 2013 Budget then announced that the standard rate of corporation tax would change from 21% to 
20% with effect from 1 April 2015. These changes were both enacted in the Finance Act 2013 in July 2013. An exceptional deferred tax 
credit of £3.1 million was recognised in the current period in respect of this.

75 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 20138.  ORDINARY DIVIDENDS ON EQUITY SHARES

Paid in the period

Final dividend for 2012 of 3.90p per share (2011: 3.70p)
Interim dividend for 2013 of 2.30p per share (2012: 2.20p)

2013 
£m 

22.2
13.1

35.3

2012 
£m 

21.0 
12.5 

33.5 

A final dividend for 2013 of 4.10p per share amounting to £23.4 million has been proposed for approval at the Annual General Meeting, 
but has not been reflected in the financial statements.

This dividend will be paid on 3 February 2014 to those shareholders on the register at close of business on 20 December 2013.

9.  EARNINGS PER ORDINARY SHARE

Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing the profit/(loss) attributable to equity shareholders by the weighted average number 
of ordinary shares in issue during the period, excluding treasury shares and those held in the Executive Share Option Plan and the Long 
Term Incentive Plan.

For diluted earnings per share, the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue is adjusted to assume conversion of all dilutive 
potential ordinary shares. These represent share options granted to employees where the exercise price is less than the weighted 
average market price of the Company’s shares during the period.

Underlying earnings per share figures are presented to exclude the effect of exceptional items. The Directors consider that the 
supplementary figures are a useful indicator of performance.

Basic earnings/(loss) per share
Diluted earnings/(loss) per share*

Underlying earnings per share figures
Basic earnings per share before exceptional items
Diluted earnings per share before exceptional items

2013

2012

Earnings 
£m 

58.6
58.6

Per share 
amount 
p 

10.3
10.2

Earnings 
£m 

(110.3)
(110.3)

Per share 
amount 
p 

(19.4)
(19.4)

70.0
70.0

12.3
12.2

69.9
69.9

12.3
12.2

*   The 2012 diluted earnings per share is the same as the basic earnings per share as the inclusion of the dilutive potential ordinary 

shares would reduce the loss per share and as such is not dilutive in accordance with IAS 33 ‘Earnings per Share’.

Basic weighted average number of shares
Dilutive options

Diluted weighted average number of shares

2013 
m 

569.4
5.1

574.5

2012 
m 

568.9
4.6

573.5

76 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013NOTES CONTINUEDFor the 53 weeks ended 5 October 201310. GOODWILL

Cost

At 30 September 2012 and 5 October 2013

Aggregate impairment

At 30 September 2012 and 5 October 2013

Net book amount at 29 September 2012

Net book amount at 5 October 2013

Cost

At 2 October 2011 and 29 September 2012

Aggregate impairment

At 2 October 2011 and 29 September 2012

Net book amount at 1 October 2011

Net book amount at 29 September 2012

£m

225.3 

1.1 

224.2 

224.2 

£m

225.3 

1.1 

224.2 

224.2 

Impairment testing of goodwill
Goodwill has been allocated across the operating segments, and the value of the recoverable amounts allocated to those segments has 
been estimated and compared to the carrying amounts. Recoverable amounts are determined based on the higher of value in use and 
fair value less costs to sell.

At 29 September 2012 the carrying amount of goodwill was allocated £115.2 million to Managed Pubs, £85.4 million to Tenanted and 
Franchised and £23.6 million to Brewing. The Group’s operating segments were revised in the current period and, as such, at 5 October 
2013 the carrying value of goodwill has been allocated £87.5 million to Destination and Premium, £86.6 million to Taverns, £26.5 million 
to Leased and £23.6 million to Brewing. Goodwill has been allocated to operating segments based on the extent to which the benefits 
of acquisitions flow to that segment.

The key assumptions used in determining value in use are the pre-tax discount rate applied to the cash flow projections of 7.5% (2012: 
6.0%) and the growth rate used to extrapolate the projected cash flows beyond the one year budgets of 2.0% (2012: 2.0%) in line with 
an expected long-term growth rate which is below the long-term average growth rate for the industry. Risk factors are considered to be 
similar in each of the Group’s operating segments.

Other commercial assumptions relate to market growth, market share and net selling prices. These assumptions are based on historic 
trends adjusted for management estimates of future prospects. These estimates take account of economic forecasts, marketing plans, 
political factors and assessments of competitors’ strategy.

The above impairment tests demonstrated that the Group had substantial levels of headroom and as such no impairment of goodwill 
was required in the current or prior period.

77 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 201311. OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Cost
At 30 September 2012
Additions
Net transfers to assets held for sale and disposals

At 5 October 2013

Amortisation
At 30 September 2012
Charge for the period
Net transfers to assets held for sale and disposals

At 5 October 2013

Net book amount at 29 September 2012

Net book amount at 5 October 2013

Acquired 
brands 
£m 

Lease 
premiums 
£m 

Computer 
software 
£m 

Development  
costs 
£m 

19.3 
–
–

19.3

–
–
–

–

19.3

19.3

2.0
–
–

2.0

1.4
–
–

1.4

0.6

0.6

7.3
1.7
(0.2)

8.8

3.8
1.0
(0.1)

4.7

3.5

4.1

0.1
–
–

0.1

–
–
–

–

0.1

0.1

Total 
£m 

28.7
1.7
(0.2)

30.2

5.2
1.0
(0.1)

6.1

23.5

24.1

Acquired brands are initially recognised at their fair value on acquisition. Given the anticipated level of investment in acquired brands, 
and there being no legal or regulatory limits to their useful lives, they are regarded as having indefinite useful lives and no annual 
amortisation is provided.

Lease premiums classified as intangible assets are those acquired with new subsidiaries.

Acquired 
brands 
£m 

Lease 
premiums 
£m 

Computer 
software 
£m 

Development  
costs 
£m 

19.3 
–
–

19.3 

–
–
–
–

–

19.3 

19.3

2.0 
– 
– 

2.0

0.5 
0.1
0.8
– 

1.4

1.5 

0.6

6.7 
0.8
(0.2)

7.3

3.0 
0.9
– 
(0.1)

3.8

3.7 

3.5

0.1 
– 
– 

0.1

–
–
–
–

–

0.1 

0.1

2013 
£m 

13.6
2.8
2.9

19.3

Total 
£m 

28.1 
0.8
(0.2)

28.7

3.5 
1.0
0.8
(0.1)

5.2

24.6 

23.5

2012 
£m 

13.6 
2.8 
2.9 

19.3 

Cost
At 2 October 2011
Additions
Net transfers to assets held for sale and disposals

At 29 September 2012

Amortisation
At 2 October 2011
Charge for the period
Impairment
Net transfers to assets held for sale and disposals

At 29 September 2012

Net book amount at 1 October 2011

Net book amount at 29 September 2012

The carrying value of acquired brands is split as follows:

Wychwood
Jennings
Ringwood

Acquired brands relate to Brewing.

78 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013NOTES CONTINUEDFor the 53 weeks ended 5 October 201311. OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS CONTINUED

Impairment testing of acquired brands
The carrying values of acquired brands are subject to annual impairment reviews on a value in use basis. The recoverable amount of 
each brand is calculated based on anticipated future income generated by that brand. The key assumptions used in the impairment 
testing of brands are a pre-tax discount rate of 7.5% (2012: 6.0%) and a long-term growth rate used to extrapolate cash flows beyond 
the cash flow projection period of one year of 2.0% (2012: 2.0%) in line with an expected long-term growth rate which is below the 
long-term average growth rate for the industry. These assumptions are based on historic trends adjusted for management estimates of 
future prospects, and take account of economic forecasts, marketing plans, political factors and assessments of competitors’ strategy.

The above impairment tests demonstrated that the Group had sufficient levels of headroom and as such no impairment of acquired 
brands was required in the current or prior period.

12. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Cost or valuation
At 30 September 2012
Additions
Net transfers to assets held for sale and disposals
Revaluation

At 5 October 2013

Depreciation
At 30 September 2012
Charge for the period
Net transfers to assets held for sale and disposals
Revaluation

At 5 October 2013

Net book amount at 29 September 2012

Net book amount at 5 October 2013

Cost or valuation
At 2 October 2011
Additions
Net transfers to assets held for sale and disposals
Revaluation

At 29 September 2012

Depreciation
At 2 October 2011
Charge for the period
Net transfers to assets held for sale and disposals
Revaluation/impairment

At 29 September 2012

Net book amount at 1 October 2011

Net book amount at 29 September 2012

Land and 
buildings 
£m 

Plant and 
machinery 
£m 

1,819.4
125.4
(59.5)
4.3

1,889.6

0.3
1.9
–
(0.3)

1.9

1,819.1

1,887.7

42.0
11.6
(4.2)
–

49.4

23.4
3.3
(4.0)
–

22.7

18.6

26.7

Land and 
buildings 
£m 

Plant and 
machinery 
£m 

1,819.5 
91.3
(58.8)
(32.6)

1,819.4

13.5 
2.0
– 
(15.2)

0.3

1,806.0 

1,819.1

40.4 
3.9
(2.3)
– 

42.0

22.5 
3.2
(2.3)
– 

23.4

17.9 

18.6

Fixtures, 
fittings, 
tools and 
equipment 
£m 

352.3
34.8
(76.6)
–

310.5

194.4
30.9
(64.0)
–

161.3

Total 
£m 

2,213.7
171.8
(140.3)
4.3

2,249.5

218.1
36.1
(68.0)
(0.3)

185.9

157.9

149.2

1,995.6

2,063.6

Fixtures, 
fittings, 
tools and 
equipment 
£m 

351.6 
36.3
(35.6)
– 

352.3

186.1 
34.5
(28.4)
2.2

194.4

Total 
£m 

2,211.5 
131.5
(96.7)
(32.6)

2,213.7

222.1 
39.7
(30.7)
(13.0)

218.1

165.5 

157.9

1,989.4 

1,995.6

79 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 201312. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT CONTINUED

The net book amount of land and buildings is split as follows:

Freehold properties
Leasehold properties over 50 years unexpired
Leasehold properties under 50 years unexpired

Cost or valuation of land and buildings comprises:

Valuation
At cost

2013 
£m 

1,652.0
211.4
24.3

1,887.7

2013 
£m 

1,770.2
119.4

1,889.6

2012 
£m 

1,607.3
190.4
21.4

1,819.1

2012 
£m 

1,771.3
48.1

1,819.4

If the freehold and leasehold properties had not been revalued, the historical cost net book amount would be £1,372.5 million  
(2012: £1,349.0 million).

Cost at 5 October 2013 includes £29.5 million (2012: £28.0 million) of assets in the course of construction.

Interest costs of £0.9 million (2012: £nil) were capitalised in respect of the financing of major projects, using the Group’s bank 
borrowings interest rate.

Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment and assets held for sale was £5.0 million (2012: profit of £2.2 million).

Capital expenditure authorised and committed at the period end but not provided for in the financial statements was £10.5 million  
(2012: £14.9 million).

The net book amount of land and buildings held under finance leases at 5 October 2013 was £21.4 million (2012: £nil). The net book 
amount of land and buildings held as part of sale and leaseback arrangements that do not fall within the scope of IAS 17 ‘Leases’ was 
£112.0 million (2012: £nil).

Revaluation/impairment
During the current period various properties were reviewed for impairment and/or material changes in value. These valuation 
adjustments were recognised in the revaluation reserve or the income statement as appropriate.

At 1 July 2012 independent chartered surveyors revalued the Group’s freehold and leasehold properties on an open market value basis. 
These valuations were incorporated into the financial statements and the resulting revaluation adjustments were taken to the revaluation 
reserve or income statement as appropriate.

The impact of the revaluations/impairments described above is as follows:

Income statement:
Revaluation loss charged as an impairment
Reversal of past impairments

Revaluation reserve:
Unrealised revaluation surplus
Reversal of past revaluation surplus

Net increase/(decrease) in shareholders’ equity/property, plant and equipment

2013 
£m 

2012 
£m 

–
2.5

2.5

2.1
–

2.1

4.6

(214.5)
1.9

(212.6)

329.9
(136.9)

193.0

(19.6)

80 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013NOTES CONTINUEDFor the 53 weeks ended 5 October 201313. OTHER NON-CURRENT ASSETS

Trade loans

At beginning of the period
Additions
Disposals, repayments and impairments

At end of the period

Other non-current assets are shown net of a provision of £1.5 million (2012: £1.7 million).

14. INVENTORIES

Raw materials and consumables
Work in progress
Finished goods

15. ASSETS HELD FOR SALE

Properties

2013 
£m 

14.3 
2.1
(3.6)

12.8

2013 
£m 

5.6
0.6
15.3

21.5

2013 
£m 

59.9

During the current and prior period, all properties classed as held for sale were reviewed for impairment. This review identified an 
impairment of £nil (2012: £1.2 million) which was taken to the income statement.

16. TRADE AND OTHER RECEIVABLES

Trade receivables
Prepayments and accrued income
Other receivables

2013 
£m 

28.6
25.7
14.7

69.0

2012 
£m 

17.1 
2.1
(4.9)

14.3

2012 
£m 

5.7
0.5
16.0

22.2

2012 
£m 

39.2

2012 
£m 

27.1
20.3
15.1

62.5

Trade receivables are shown net of a provision of £0.7 million (2012: £0.9 million). Other receivables are shown net of a provision of  
£4.3 million (2012: £5.4 million).

The ageing analysis of trade receivables is as follows:

Neither past due nor impaired
Less than 30 days
31 to 60 days
Greater than 60 days

2013 
£m 

22.5
2.4
0.7
3.0

28.6

2012 
£m 

19.1
4.5
0.8
2.7

27.1

Included within other receivables is an amount of £6.2 million (2012: £6.8 million), net of provision, which relates to amounts due from 
tenants of licensed properties. A significant proportion of this balance is greater than 60 days old.

All of the Group’s trade receivables are denominated in pounds sterling.

Included within trade receivables are balances which are past due at the balance sheet date but have not been provided for, as these 
are considered to be recoverable. These balances relate to established customers for whom there is no recent history of default. Trade 
receivables that are less than three months past due are not generally considered impaired unless there is objective evidence that the 
Group will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original terms of the receivables.

At 5 October 2013 the value of collateral held in the form of cash deposits was £8.5 million (2012: £8.5 million).

81 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 201317.  BORROWINGS

Current

Unsecured bank borrowings
Securitised debt 
Finance leases

Non-current

Unsecured bank borrowings
Securitised debt
Finance leases
Other lease related borrowings
Preference shares

2013 
£m 

(0.8)
23.4
0.1

22.7

2013 
£m 

189.6
964.2
20.8
87.7
0.1

2012 
£m 

(0.8)
22.1
– 

21.3

2012 
£m 

172.9
987.6 
– 
– 
0.1 

1,262.4

1,160.6 

Unsecured bank borrowings due within one year represent unamortised issue costs expected to be charged to the income statement 
within 12 months of the balance sheet date.

Other lease related borrowings represent amounts due under sale and leaseback arrangements that do not fall within the scope of  
IAS 17 ‘Leases’.

All of the Group’s borrowings are denominated in pounds sterling. There were no instances of default, including covenant terms, in 
either the current or prior period.

Maturity of borrowings
The maturity profile of the carrying amount of the Group’s borrowings at the period end was as follows:

Due:

Within one year
In more than one year but less than two years
In more than two years but less than five years
In more than five years

2013

Gross 
borrowings 
£m 

Unamortised 
issue costs 
£m 

Net 
borrowings 
£m 

Gross 
borrowings 
£m 

24.1
25.5
276.5
976.1

1,302.2

(1.4)
(1.4)
(2.5)
(11.8)

(17.1)

22.7
24.1
274.0
964.3

22.7
199.0
80.5
891.2

2012

Unamortised 
issue costs 
£m 

(1.4)
(1.4)
(3.0)
(5.7)

Net 
borrowings 
£m 

21.3
197.6
77.5
885.5

Fair value of borrowings
The carrying amount and the fair value of the Group’s borrowings are as follows:

Unsecured bank borrowings
Securitised debt 
Finance leases
Other lease related borrowings
Preference shares

1,285.1

1,193.4

(11.5)

1,181.9

 Carrying amount

 Fair value

2013 
£m 

191.0
995.6
20.9
94.6
0.1

2012 
£m 

175.0
1,018.3
– 
– 
0.1

2013 
£m 

191.0
971.5
20.9
94.6
0.1

2012 
£m 

175.0
879.3
– 
– 
0.1

1,302.2

1,193.4

1,278.1

1,054.4

Preference shares
The Group has 75,000 (2012: 75,000) preference shares of £1 each in issue at the balance sheet date. The preference shares carry the 
right to a fixed cumulative preferential dividend at the rate of 6% per annum (they are also entitled to a non-cumulative dividend of 1% 
per annum provided that dividends of not less than £24,000 have been paid on the ordinary shares in that year). They participate in the 
event of a winding-up and on a return of capital and carry the right to attend and vote at general meetings of the Company, carrying four 
votes per share.

82 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013NOTES CONTINUEDFor the 53 weeks ended 5 October 201318. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Interest rate swaps

Current assets
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities

2013 
£m 

6.8
(6.8)
(134.6)

(134.6)

2012 
£m 

13.7
(14.1)
(187.3)

(187.7)

Details of the Group’s interest rate swaps are provided in note 20.

19. SECURITISED DEBT

On 9 August 2005 £805.0 million of secured loan notes were issued in connection with the securitisation of 1,592 of the Group’s pubs 
held in Marston’s Pubs Limited. On 22 November 2007, a further £330.0 million of secured loan notes (tranches A4 and AB1) were 
issued in connection with the securitisation of an additional 437 of the Group’s pubs, also held in Marston’s Pubs Limited. The loan 
notes are secured over the properties and their future income streams and were issued by Marston’s Issuer PLC, a special purpose 
entity.

During the period ended 5 October 2013, 104 (2012: 4) of the securitised pubs were sold to third parties and 5 pubs (2012: 5) were  
sold to another member of the Group. The carrying amount of the securitised pubs at 5 October 2013 was £1,409.8 million (2012: 
£1,414.4 million).

The securitisation is governed by various covenants, warranties and events of default, many of which apply to Marston’s Pubs Limited. 
These include covenants regarding the maintenance and disposal of securitised properties and restrictions on the ability to move cash 
to other companies within the Group.

The securitised debt at 5 October 2013 consists of six tranches with the following principal terms:

Tranche

A1
A2
A3
A4
AB1
B

2013 
£m 

131.6 
214.0 
200.0 
215.0 
80.0 
155.0 

995.6 

2012 
£m 

147.2 
214.0 
200.0 
222.1 
80.0 
155.0 

1,018.3 

Interest

Floating
Fixed/floating
Fixed/floating
Floating
Floating
Fixed/floating

Principal repayment
period – by instalments

2013 to 2020
2020 to 2027
2027 to 2032
2013 to 2031
2031 to 2035
2032 to 2035

Expected
average life

7 years
14 years
19 years
18 years
22 years
22 years

Expected
maturity date

2020 
2027 
2032 
2031 
2035 
2035 

Interest on the Class A1 notes was payable at three month LIBOR plus a margin of 0.55%, stepping up to three month LIBOR plus 
1.375% from July 2012.

Interest on the Class A2 notes is payable at a rate of 5.1576% until July 2019 and thereafter at three month LIBOR plus a margin  
of 1.32%.

Interest on the Class A3 notes is payable at a rate of 5.1774% until April 2027 and thereafter at three month LIBOR plus a margin  
of 1.45%.

Interest on the Class A4 notes was payable at three month LIBOR plus a margin of 0.65%, stepping up to three month LIBOR plus 
1.625% from October 2012.

Interest on the Class AB1 notes was payable at three month LIBOR plus a margin of 1.25%, stepping up to three month LIBOR plus 
3.125% from October 2012.

Interest on the Class B notes is payable at a rate of 5.6410% until July 2019 and thereafter at three month LIBOR plus a margin  
of 2.55%.

All floating rate notes are hedged in full by the Group using interest rate swaps whereby all interest payments are swapped to fixed 
interest payable.

At 5 October 2013 Marston’s Pubs Limited held cash of £76.6 million (2012: £51.0 million), which was governed by certain restrictions 
under the covenants associated with the securitisation.

83 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 201320. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Financial instruments by category
The accounting policies for financial instruments have been applied to the line items below:

At 5 October 2013

Assets as per the balance sheet
Derivative financial instruments
Trade receivables (before provision)
Other receivables (before provision)
Trade loans (before provision)
Cash and cash equivalents

At 5 October 2013

Liabilities as per the balance sheet
Derivative financial instruments
Borrowings
Trade payables
Other payables

At 29 September 2012

Assets as per the balance sheet
Derivative financial instruments
Trade receivables (before provision)
Other receivables (before provision)
Trade loans (before provision)
Cash and cash equivalents

At 29 September 2012

Liabilities as per the balance sheet
Derivative financial instruments
Borrowings
Trade payables
Other payables

Assets at 
fair value 
through 
profit or 
loss 
£m 

6.8
– 
– 
– 
– 

6.8

Liabilities 
  at fair 
value 
through 
profit or 
loss 
£m 

6.8
– 
– 
– 

6.8

Assets at 
fair value 
through 
profit or 
loss 
£m 

13.7
– 
– 
– 
– 

13.7

Liabilities 
  at fair 
value 
through 
profit or 
loss 
£m 

14.1
– 
– 
– 

14.1

Loans and 
receivables 
£m 

– 
29.3
19.0
14.3
94.1

Total 
£m 

6.8
29.3
19.0
14.3
94.1

156.7

163.5

Other 
financial 
liabilities 
£m 

– 
1,285.1
71.0
25.0

1,381.1

Loans and 
receivables 
£m 

– 
28.0
20.5
16.0
60.8

Total 
£m 

141.4
1,285.1
71.0
25.0

1,522.5

Total 
£m 

13.7
28.0
20.5
16.0
60.8

125.3

139.0

Other 
financial 
liabilities 
£m 

– 
1,181.9
61.0
26.6

1,269.5

Total 
£m 

201.4
1,181.9
61.0
26.6

1,470.9

Derivatives 
used for 
  hedging 
£m 

134.6
– 
– 
– 

134.6

Derivatives 
used for 
  hedging 
£m 

187.3
– 
– 
– 

187.3

The fair value of financial instruments that are not traded in an active market, such as over-the-counter derivatives, is determined using 
valuation techniques. The Group obtains such valuations from counterparties who use a variety of assumptions based on market 
conditions existing at each balance sheet date.

84 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013NOTES CONTINUEDFor the 53 weeks ended 5 October 201320. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS CONTINUED

The fair values of all financial instruments are equal to their book values, with the exception of borrowings (note 17). The carrying value 
less impairment provision of trade receivables, other receivables and trade loans, and the carrying value of trade payables and other 
payables, are assumed to approximate their fair values.

Fair value hierarchy
IFRS 7 requires fair value measurements to be recognised using a fair value hierarchy that reflects the significance of the inputs used in 
the measurements, according to the following levels:

Level 1 – unadjusted quoted prices 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 or indirectly.
Level 3 – inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on observable market data.

The table below shows the level in the fair value hierarchy into which fair value measurements have been categorised:

Assets as per the balance sheet

Derivative financial instruments

Level 1 
£m 

– 

2013

Level 2 
£m 

6.8 

Level 3 
£m 

– 

Total 
£m 

6.8 

Level 1 
£m 

– 

2012

Level 2 
£m 

13.7 

2012

Level 3 
£m 

– 

Total 
£m 

13.7 

Liabilities as per the balance sheet

Derivative financial instruments

2013

Level 1 
£m 

– 

Level 2 
£m 

141.4 

Level 3 
£m 

Total 
£m 

Level 1 
£m 

Level 2 
£m 

Level 3 
£m 

Total 
£m 

– 

141.4 

– 

201.4 

– 

201.4 

There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 fair value measurements during the current or prior period.

Over the life of the Group’s derivative financial instruments, the cumulative fair value gain/loss on those instruments will be £nil as it is 
the Group’s intention to hold them to maturity.

Financial risk factors
The Group’s activities expose it to a variety of financial risks: market risk (including interest rate risk and foreign currency risk), 
counterparty risk, credit risk and liquidity risk. The Group’s overall risk management programme focuses on the unpredictability of 
financial markets and seeks to minimise potential adverse effects on the Group’s financial performance. The Group uses derivative 
financial instruments to hedge certain risk exposures.

Risk management is carried out by a central treasury department (Group Treasury) under policies approved by the Board. Group 
Treasury identifies, evaluates and hedges financial risks. The Board provides principles for overall risk management, as well as policies 
covering specific areas, such as interest rate risk, credit risk, investment of excess liquidity and use of derivative and non-derivative 
financial instruments.

Interest rate risk:
The Group’s income and operating cash flows are substantially independent of changes in market interest rates, and as such the 
Group’s interest rate risk arises from its long-term borrowings. Borrowings issued at variable rates expose the Group to cash flow 
interest rate risk. Borrowings issued at fixed rates expose the Group to fair value interest rate risk.

The Group analyses its interest rate exposure on a dynamic basis. Various scenarios are simulated taking into consideration refinancing, 
renewal of existing positions, alternative financing and hedging. Based on these scenarios, the Group calculates the impact on the 
income statement of a defined interest rate shift. The scenarios are run only for liabilities that represent the major interest-bearing 
positions.

The Group manages its cash flow interest rate risk by using floating-to-fixed interest rate swaps. Such interest rate swaps have the 
economic effect of converting borrowings from floating rates to fixed rates. Generally, the Group raises long-term borrowings at floating 
rates and swaps them into fixed rates that are lower than those available if the Group borrowed at fixed rates directly. Under the interest 
rate swaps, the Group agrees with other parties to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between fixed contract rates and 
floating rate interest amounts calculated by reference to the agreed notional amounts.

If interest rates had been 0.5% higher/lower during the period ended 5 October 2013, with all other variables held constant, post-tax 
profit/(loss) for the period would have been £0.3 million (2012: £0.3 million) lower/higher as a result of higher/lower interest expense.

85 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 201320. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS CONTINUED

Interest rate swaps designated as part of a hedging arrangement
The Group uses interest rate swaps to fix the interest rate payable on the floating rate tranches of its securitised debt (note 19). The 
notional principal amounts of these interest rate swap contracts at 5 October 2013 totalled £426.6 million (2012: £449.3 million). These 
interest rate swaps, including borrowing margins, fix interest at 6.2% and 7.3%. The movement in fair value recognised in other 
comprehensive income in the period was a gain of £44.0 million (2012: loss of £28.5 million).

On 22 March 2012 the Group entered into two forward starting interest rate swaps of £60.0 million each to fix the interest rate payable 
on the Group’s unsecured bank borrowings. The interest rate swaps commenced on 27 April 2012, fix interest at 4.1% and terminate on 
30 April 2020. In total, the fair value of these two new swaps at inception was £(18.9) million (note 4). The movement in fair value 
recognised in other comprehensive income in the period was a gain of £5.6 million (2012: loss of £5.6 million). The movement in fair 
value recognised in the income statement in the period was a gain of £3.1 million (2012: £nil).

Interest rate swaps not designated as part of a hedging arrangement
On 1 October 2007 the Group entered into two interest rate swaps of £70.0 million each to fix the interest rate payable on the Group’s 
unsecured bank borrowings. These interest rate swaps fix interest at 5.5% and 5.6% and terminate on 1 October 2014. The movement 
in fair value recognised in the income statement in the period was a gain of £6.9 million (2012: £3.9 million).

On 22 March 2012 the Group entered into four new fixed-to-floating interest rate swaps of £35.0 million each. In total, these swaps are 
equal and opposite to the above two floating-to-fixed interest rate swaps of £70.0 million each. The total fair value of the four new swaps 
at inception was £15.1 million (note 4). The movement in fair value recognised in the income statement in the period was a loss of £6.9 
million (2012: £1.4 million).

On 20 May 2009 the Group entered into a forward starting interest rate swap of £20.0 million. This interest rate swap commenced on  
9 August 2010, fixed interest at 3.3% and terminated on 8 August 2013. This swap had been designated as a cash flow hedge of the 
forecast floating rate interest payments arising on the first £20.0 million of borrowings under the Group’s previous bank facility. During 
the prior period the Group entered into a new bank facility and as such these forecast transactions were no longer expected to occur. 
Therefore the cumulative hedging loss of £0.8 million that had been reported in equity was transferred to the income statement in the 
prior period. The movement in fair value recognised in other comprehensive income in the period was a gain of £nil (2012: £0.1 million). 
The movement in fair value recognised in the income statement in the period was a gain of £0.4 million (2012: £0.4 million).

The interest rate risk profile, after taking account of derivative financial instruments, is as follows:

Floating
  rate 
financial  
liabilities 
£m 

2013

Fixed 
rate 
financial  
liabilities 
£m 

Floating 
rate 
 financial  
liabilities 
£m 

2012

Fixed 
rate 
financial 
liabilities 
£m 

Total 
£m 

Total 
£m 

Borrowings

186.5 

1,115.7 

1,302.2

35.0 

1,158.4 

1,193.4 

The weighted average interest rate of the fixed rate financial borrowings was 5.8% (2012: 5.4%) and the weighted average period for 
which the rate is fixed was 16 years (2012: 16 years).

Foreign currency risk:
The Group buys and sells goods denominated in non-sterling currencies, principally US dollars and euros. As a result, movements  
in exchange rates can affect the value of the Group’s income and expenditure. The Group’s exposure in this area is not considered to 
be significant.

Counterparty risk:
The Group’s counterparty risk in respect of its cash and cash equivalents is mitigated by the use of various banking institutions for its 
deposits.

There is no significant concentration of counterparty risk in respect of the Group’s pension assets, as these are held with a range of 
institutions.

Credit risk:
Credit risk is managed on a Group basis. Credit risk arises from credit exposure to customers, including outstanding receivables and 
committed transactions. If customers are independently rated, these ratings are used. Otherwise, if there is no independent rating, an 
assessment is made of the credit quality of the customer, taking into account its financial position, past experience and other factors. 
Individual credit limits are set based on internal or external ratings in accordance with limits set by the Board. The utilisation of and 
adherence to credit limits is regularly monitored.

86 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013NOTES CONTINUEDFor the 53 weeks ended 5 October 201320. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS CONTINUED

A provision for impairment of trade receivables, other receivables and trade loans has been estimated by management and is based on 
prior experience and known factors at the balance sheet date after taking into account collateral held in the form of cash deposits and 
fixtures and fittings. Receivables are written off against the provision for impairment when management considers that the debt is no 
longer recoverable.

The Group has no significant concentration of credit risk in respect of its customers. The maximum exposure to credit risk at the 
reporting date is the carrying value of each class of receivable.

Liquidity risk:
The Group applies a prudent liquidity risk management policy, which involves maintaining sufficient cash, ensuring the availability of 
funding through an adequate amount of committed credit facilities and having the ability to close out market positions. Due to the 
dynamic nature of the underlying business, Group Treasury maintains the availability of committed credit lines to ensure that the Group 
has flexibility in funding.

Management monitors rolling forecasts of the Group’s liquidity reserve (comprising undrawn borrowing facilities and cash and cash 
equivalents) on the basis of expected cash flow. In addition, the Group’s liquidity management policy involves maintaining debt financing 
plans, projecting cash flows and considering the level of liquid assets necessary to meet these, and monitoring balance sheet liquidity 
ratios against internal and external regulatory requirements. The Group’s borrowing covenants are subject to regular review.

The table below analyses the Group’s financial liabilities and non-settled derivative financial instruments into relevant maturity groupings 
based on the remaining period at the balance sheet date to the contractual maturity date. The amounts disclosed in the table are the 
contractual undiscounted cash flows.

Less than 
1 year 
£m 

Between 1 
and 2 years 
£m 

Between 2 
and 5 years 
£m 

70.8
29.2
71.0
25.0

73.5
19.7

–  
–

196.0

93.2

413.7
34.0
–
–

447.7

Less than 
1 year 
£m 

Between 1 
and 2 years 
£m 

Between 2 
and 5 years 
£m 

 69.7
30.5
61.0 
26.6 

187.8 

69.9
29.6

–  
–

99.5

388.9
56.4
–
–

445.3

At 5 October 2013

Borrowings
Derivative financial instruments
Trade payables
Other payables

At 29 September 2012

Borrowings
Derivative financial instruments
Trade payables
Other payables

21. TRADE AND OTHER PAYABLES

Trade payables
Other taxes and social security
Accruals and deferred income
Other payables

Other payables include £10.3 million (2012: £11.0 million) payable in respect of a supplier credit arrangement.

Over 
5 years 
£m 

1,352.6
74.3
–
–

1,426.9

Over 
5 years 
£m 

1,407.4
105.0
–
–

1,512.4

2013 
£m 

71.0
32.4
45.9
25.0

Total 
£m 

1,910.6
157.2
71.0
25.0

2,163.8

Total 
£m 

1,935.9
221.5
61.0
26.6

2,245.0

2012 
£m 

61.0
23.5
45.8
26.6

174.3

156.9

87 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 201322. DEFERRED TAX

Net deferred tax liability
Deferred tax is calculated on temporary differences between tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts under the 
liability method using a tax rate of 20% (2012: 23%). The movement on the deferred tax accounts is shown below:

At beginning of the period
Charged/(credited) to the income statement
(Credited)/charged to equity
  Impairment and revaluation of properties
  Hedging reserve
  Retirement benefits
  Share-based payments

At end of the period

2013 
£m 

87.6
0.4

(15.6)
15.0
0.9
(0.1)

88.2

2012 
£m 

96.0 
(38.5)

42.6
(5.0)
(7.4)
(0.1)

87.6

The movements in deferred tax assets and liabilities (prior to the offsetting of balances within the same jurisdiction as permitted by IAS 
12) during the period are shown below. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are only offset where there is a legally enforceable right of 
offset and there is an intention to settle the balances net.

Deferred tax liabilities

At 30 September 2012
Credited to the income statement
Credited to equity

At 5 October 2013

Deferred tax assets

At 30 September 2012
Charged to the income statement
Charged/(credited) to equity

At 5 October 2013

Net deferred tax liability
At 29 September 2012

At 5 October 2013

Accelerated 
capital 
allowances 
£m 

Revaluation 
of properties 
£m 

Rolled over 
capital 
gains 
£m 

35.3
(4.2)
–

31.1

114.1
–
(15.6)

98.5

Pensions 
£m 

Tax losses 
£m 

(5.6) 
3.7
0.9

(1.0)

(23.5)
2.8
–

(20.7)

2.0
(1.3)
–

0.7

Hedging 
reserve 
£m 

(38.8)
–
15.0

(23.8)

Deferred tax liabilities

At 2 October 2011
(Credited)/charged to the income statement
(Credited)/charged to equity

At 29 September 2012

Accelerated 
capital 
allowances 
£m 

Revaluation 
of properties 
£m 

Rolled over 
capital 
gains 
£m 

37.4 
(2.1)
– 

35.3

 107.0
(35.5)
42.6

114.1

6.9 
(4.9)
– 

2.0

Pensions 
£m 

1.8 
– 
(1.8)

– 

Other 
£m 

7.6
(2.4)
–

5.2

Other 
£m 

(3.5)
1.8
(0.1)

(1.8)

Other 
£m 

6.2
1.4
– 

7.6

Total 
£m 

159.0
(7.9)
(15.6)

135.5

Total 
£m 

(71.4)
8.3
15.8

(47.3)

87.6

88.2

Total 
£m 

159.3 
(41.1)
40.8

159.0

88 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013NOTES CONTINUEDFor the 53 weeks ended 5 October 201322. DEFERRED TAX CONTINUED

Deferred tax assets

At 2 October 2011
Charged to the income statement
Credited to equity

At 29 September 2012

Net deferred tax liability
At 1 October 2011

At 29 September 2012

Pensions 
£m 

Tax losses 
£m 

–
– 
(5.6)

(5.6) 

(24.8)
1.3
– 

(23.5)

Hedging 
reserve 
£m 

(33.8)
– 
(5.0)

(38.8)

Other 
£m 

(4.7)
1.3
(0.1)

(3.5)

Total 
£m 

(63.3)
2.6
(10.7)

(71.4)

96.0

87.6

Deferred tax assets have been recognised in respect of all tax losses and other temporary differences where it is probable that these 
assets will be recovered.

23. OTHER NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES

Other liabilities

24. PROVISIONS FOR OTHER LIABILITIES AND CHARGES

Property leases

At beginning of the period
Released in the period
Provided in the period
Unwinding of discount
Utilised in the period

At end of the period

2013 
£m 

0.5

2013 
£m 

17.7 
(1.9)
0.9
0.7
(3.8)

13.6

2012 
£m 

0.6

2012 
£m 

24.9 
(4.6)
2.7 
0.9 
(6.2)

17.7 

When valuations of leasehold properties (based on future estimated income streams) give rise to a deficit as a result of onerous  
lease conditions they are recognised as liabilities in provisions. Other contractual property costs are also recorded as provisions  
as appropriate.

Payments are expected to continue on these properties for periods of 1 to 56 years (2012: 1 to 57 years).

25. RETIREMENT BENEFITS

During the period the Group contributed to a funded defined benefit (final salary) pension scheme and a number of defined contribution 
arrangements.

Defined contribution schemes
Pension costs for defined contribution schemes are as follows:

Defined contribution schemes

2013 
£m 

3.8

2012 
£m 

2.8

89 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 201325. RETIREMENT BENEFITS CONTINUED

Defined benefit scheme
An updated actuarial valuation of the Marston’s PLC Pension and Life Assurance Scheme was performed by Mercer as at 5 October 2013 
for the purposes of IAS 19. The principal assumptions made by the actuaries were:

Discount rate
Rate of increase in pensionable salaries
Rate of increase in pensions – 5% LPI
Rate of increase in pensions – 2.5% LPI
Inflation assumption (RPI)
Inflation assumption (CPI)
Expected return on scheme assets
Life expectancy for active and deferred members from age 65
  Male
  Female
Life expectancy for current pensioners from age 65
  Male
  Female

2013 

4.4%
3.7%
3.1%
2.1%
3.2%
2.2%
N/A

2012 

4.4% 
3.1% 
2.6% 
1.9% 
2.6% 
2.0% 
4.9% 

23.5 years
25.9 years

23.4 years 
25.8 years 

21.7 years
23.9 years

21.6 years 
23.8 years 

The expected return on scheme assets was based on market expectation at the beginning of the period for returns over the entire life of 
the benefit obligation. Mortality assumptions are based on standard tables adjusted for scheme experience and with an allowance for 
future improvement in life expectancy.

Movement in scheme assets and liabilities during the period:

At beginning of the period
Current service cost
Interest cost on benefit obligations
Expected return on scheme assets
Employer contributions
Employee contributions
Benefits paid
Curtailment gain
Actuarial gains/(losses)

At end of the period

Scheme assets

Scheme liabilities

Net deficit

2013 
£m 

390.4
–
–
18.6
15.8
0.1
(17.0)
–
19.9

427.8

2012 
£m 

368.7
– 
– 
19.3
14.0
0.1
(16.6)
– 
4.9

390.4

2013 
£m 

(414.9)
(2.0)
(17.9)
–
–
(0.1)
17.0
1.4
(16.4)

(432.9)

2012 
£m 

(361.6)
(2.1)
(18.8)
– 
– 
(0.1)
16.6
1.0
(49.9)

(414.9)

2013 
£m 

(24.5)
(2.0)
(17.9)
18.6
15.8
–
–
1.4
3.5

(5.1)

2012 
£m 

7.1
(2.1)
(18.8)
19.3
14.0
– 
– 
1.0
(45.0)

(24.5)

A proportion of the scheme liabilities has been secured by a buy-in policy and as such this proportion of liabilities is matched by 
annuities. 

The major categories of scheme assets as a percentage of total scheme assets are as follows:

Equities/Properties
Bonds/Gilts
Cash/Other
Buy-in policy (matching annuities)

The actual return on scheme assets was a gain of £38.5 million (2012: £24.2 million).

2013 

2012 

44.0%
44.0%
1.0%
11.0%

49.0% 
38.0% 
1.0% 
12.0% 

90 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013NOTES CONTINUEDFor the 53 weeks ended 5 October 201325. RETIREMENT BENEFITS CONTINUED

Pension costs recognised in the income statement
The amounts recognised in the income statement are as follows:

Current service cost
Curtailment gain
Interest cost on benefit obligations
Expected return on scheme assets

Total (income)/expense recognised in the income statement

2013 
£m 

2.0
(1.4)
17.9
(18.6)

(0.1)

2012 
£m 

2.1
(1.0)
18.8
(19.3)

0.6

A charge of £0.6 million (2012: £1.1 million) is included within employee costs (note 5) and a credit of £0.7 million (2012: £0.5 million) is 
included within finance costs and income (note 6).

Cumulative actuarial gains and losses recognised in the statement of comprehensive income

At beginning of the period
Net actuarial gains/(losses) recognised in the period

At end of the period

2013 
£m 

(47.1)
3.5

(43.6)

2012 
£m 

(2.1)
(45.0)

(47.1)

Actuarial gains of £0.1 million (2012: losses of £0.2 million) in respect of post-retirement medical benefits have been included in the 
statement of comprehensive income.

History of experience gains and losses

Present value of scheme liabilities
Fair value of scheme assets

(Deficit)/surplus

Experience adjustments arising on scheme liabilities
Experience adjustments arising on scheme assets

2013 
£m 

(432.9)
427.8

(5.1)

–
19.9

2012 
£m 

(414.9)
390.4

(24.5)

5.3
4.9

2011 
£m 

(361.6)
368.7 

7.1 

–
(8.6)

2010 
£m 

(382.9)
357.9 

(25.0)

–
26.4 

2009 
£m 

(349.8)
314.5 

(35.3)

13.1 
22.2 

The employer contributions expected to be paid during the financial period ending 4 October 2014 amount to £15.3 million.

26. SHARE-BASED PAYMENTS

During the period there were three classes of equity-settled employee share incentive plans outstanding:

(a) Save As You Earn (SAYE). Under this scheme employees enter into a savings contract for a period of three to seven years and 
options are granted on commencement of the contract, exercisable using the amount saved under the contract at the time it 
terminates. Options under the scheme are granted at a discount of 20% to the market price of the shares at the time of the invitation 
and are not subject to performance conditions. Exercise of options is subject to continued employment.

(b) Executive Share Option Plan (ESOP). Under this scheme executive share options are awarded at the prevailing market rate on the 

date of grant. Options are normally exercisable between three and ten years after grant and upon the achievement of performance 
criteria in relation to earnings per share.

(c) Long Term Incentive Plan (LTIP). Under this scheme nil cost options are granted that will only vest provided the participant satisfies 
the minimum shareholding requirement and performance conditions relating to earnings per share, as set out in the Directors’ 
Remuneration Report on page 48, are met.

In 2010, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) approved an Approved Performance Share Plan (APSP) to enable participants in the LTIP 
to benefit from UK tax efficiencies. As such, awards made in 2010 and future years comprise an HMRC approved option (in respect 
of the first £30,000 worth of an award) and an unapproved LTIP award for amounts in excess of this HMRC limit. A further share 
award (a linked award) is also provided to enable participants to fund the exercise of the approved option. This linked award is 
satisfied by way of shares from the Company’s Employee Benefit Trust but these additional shares are not delivered to the 
participant. Under these rules the LTIP options are still issued at nil cost to the employee.

91 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013 
26. SHARE-BASED PAYMENTS CONTINUED

The tables below summarise the outstanding share options.

SAYE:

Outstanding at beginning of the period
Granted
Exercised
Expired

Outstanding at end of the period

Exercisable at end of the period
Range of exercise prices

Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)

ESOP:

Outstanding at beginning of the period
Exercised

Outstanding at end of the period

Exercisable at end of the period
Range of exercise prices
Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)

LTIP:

Outstanding at beginning of the period
Granted
Expired

Outstanding at end of the period

Exercisable at end of the period
Exercise price

Number of shares

 Weighted average  
exercise price

2013 
m 

6.2
0.9
(1.4)
(0.6)

5.1

2012 
m 

6.3
1.3
(0.2)
(1.2)

6.2

0.2
76.1p to
 265.5p
2.8

0.2
76.1p to
 265.5p
3.0

2013 
p 

83.8
122.8
81.1
97.1

90.2

90.0

2012 
p 

87.7
78.7
93.0
97.6

83.8

135.6

Number of shares

Weighted average 
exercise price

2013 
m 

0.1
(0.1)

– 

– 
– 
– 

2012 
m 

0.1
– 

0.1

0.1
108.4p 
0.3

2013 
p 

108.4
108.4

– 

– 

2012 
p 

108.4
– 

108.4

108.4

Number of shares

Weighted average 
exercise price

2013 
m 

5.1
1.3
(2.2)

4.2

–
–

2012 
m 

3.6
2.3
(0.8)

5.1

–
–

2013 
p 

–
–
–

–

2012 
p 

–
–
–

–

LTIP options are exercisable no later than the tenth anniversary of the date of grant.

The fair values of the SAYE, ESOP and LTIP rights are calculated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The 
significant inputs into the model for all schemes unless otherwise stated were:

2013 

2012 

Dividend yield %
Expected volatility %
Risk free interest rate %
Expected life of rights
  SAYE
  LTIP

4.8 

6.4 
20.6 to 42.4  32.9 to 45.5 
0.4 to 1.3 

0.7 to 1.2 

3 to 5 years  3 to 7 years 
3 years 

3 years 

The expected volatility is based on historical volatility over the expected life of the rights. The performance criteria of the ESOP and LTIP, 
as set out previously, are built into the pricing model.

The weighted average fair value of options granted during the period in relation to the SAYE was 16.5p (2012: 14.5p). The fair value of 
options granted during the period in relation to the LTIP was 127.1p (2012: 80.9p).

92 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013NOTES CONTINUEDFor the 53 weeks ended 5 October 201326. SHARE-BASED PAYMENTS CONTINUED

The weighted average share price for options exercised over the period was 154.1p (2012: 111.5p). The total charge for the period 
relating to employee share-based payment plans was £0.2 million (2012: £0.2 million), all of which related to equity-settled share-based 
payment transactions. After tax, the total charge was £0.1 million (2012: £0.1 million).

27. EQUITY SHARE CAPITAL

Allotted, called up and fully paid

Ordinary shares of 7.375p each:
At beginning of the period
Allotted under share option schemes

At end of the period

 2013

Number 
m 

601.1
1.5

602.6

Value 
£m 

44.3
0.1

44.4

 2012

Number 
m 

600.9 
0.2

601.1

Value 
£m 

44.3 
– 

44.3

A total of 1.5 million (2012: 0.2 million) ordinary shares were issued during the period ended 5 October 2013 pursuant to the exercise of 
ESOP and SAYE share options. The aggregate consideration in respect of these exercises was £1.1 million (2012: £0.2 million).

At 5 October 2013 there were no (2012: 0.1 million) executive share options outstanding and 5.1 million (2012: 6.2 million) SAYE options 
outstanding at prices from 76.1p to 265.5p per share exercisable between 2013 and 2020. Details of the Group’s LTIP are included in 
the Directors’ Remuneration Report on pages 48 to 49.

28. OTHER COMPONENTS OF EQUITY

The capital redemption reserve of £6.8 million (2012: £6.8 million) arose on share buy-backs.

Own shares represent the carrying value of the investment in own shares held by the Group’s ESOP and LTIP and in treasury shares as 
set out in the table below. ESOP and LTIP shares are held pursuant to the Company’s executive share option schemes. The trustee of 
the ESOP is Banks’s Brewery Insurance Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marston’s PLC. The trustee of the LTIP is Computershare 
Trustees (C.I.) Limited.

ESOP
LTIP
Treasury shares

 2013

Number 
m 

0.1
1.7
30.2

32.0

Value 
£m 

0.1
4.1
126.7

130.9

 2012

Number  
m 

0.1 
1.7 
30.2 

32.0 

Value 
£m  

0.1 
4.1 
126.7 

130.9 

The market value of own shares held is £46.4 million (2012: £36.5 million). Shares held by the LTIP represent 0.3% (2012: 0.3%) of issued 
share capital. Treasury shares held represent 5.0% (2012: 5.0%) of issued share capital.

Dividends on own shares have been waived.

Capital management
The Group considers its capital to comprise total equity (as disclosed on the face of the Group balance sheet) and net debt (note 30). In 
managing its capital the primary objective is to ensure that the Group is able to continue to operate as a going concern and to maximise 
return to shareholders through a combination of capital growth and distributions. The Group seeks to maintain a ratio of debt to equity 
that both balances risks and returns at an acceptable level and retains sufficient funds to comply with lending covenants, achieve 
working capital targets and meet investment requirements. The Board reviews the Group’s dividend policy and funding requirements at 
least once a year.

93 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 201329. WORKING CAPITAL AND NON-CASH MOVEMENTS

Income from other non-current assets
Decrease/(increase) in inventories
Increase in trade and other receivables
Increase in trade and other payables and other non-current liabilities
Movements in respect of property, plant and equipment, assets held for sale and intangible assets
Share-based payments

Working capital and non-cash movements

2013 
£m 

(0.3)
0.7
(6.9)
12.7
2.5
0.2

8.9

2012 
£m 

(0.4)
(3.4)
(1.9)
3.2
212.4
0.2

210.1

Further details of movements in respect of property, plant and equipment, assets held for sale and intangible assets are given in notes 
4, 11, 12 and 15.

30. NET DEBT

Analysis of net debt

Cash and cash equivalents
Cash at bank and in hand

Debt due within one year
Bank loans
Securitised debt
Finance leases

Debt due after one year
Bank loans
Securitised debt
Finance leases
Other lease related borrowings
Preference shares

Net debt

2013 
£m 

Cash flow 
£m 

Non-cash 
movements 
and deferred 
issue costs 
£m 

94.1

94.1

0.8
(23.4)
(0.1)

(22.7)

(189.6)
(964.2)
(20.8)
(87.7)
(0.1)

(1,262.4)

(1,191.0)

33.3

33.3

–
22.7
0.3

23.0

(16.0)
–
–
(94.6)
–

(110.6)

(54.3)

2012 
£m 

60.8

60.8

0.8
(22.1)
– 

(21.3)

(172.9)
(987.6)
– 
– 
(0.1)

–

–

–
(24.0)
(0.4)

(24.4)

(0.7)
23.4
(20.8)
6.9
–

8.8

(1,160.6)

(15.6)

(1,121.1)

Bank loans due within one year represent unamortised issue costs expected to be charged to the income statement within 12 months 
of the balance sheet date. Bank loans due after one year represent amounts drawn down under the Group’s revolving credit facility, net 
of unamortised issue costs expected to be charged to the income statement after 12 months from the balance sheet date.

Other lease related borrowings represent amounts due under sale and leaseback arrangements that do not fall within the scope of  
IAS 17 ‘Leases’.

Net debt does not include other financial liabilities such as trade and other payables.

Included within cash at bank and in hand is an amount of £2.6 million (2012: £3.7 million) relating to a letter of credit with Royal Sun 
Alliance Insurance, an amount of £0.5 million (2012: £0.5 million) relating to a letter of credit with Aviva, and an amount of £8.5 million 
(2012: £8.5 million) relating to collateral held in the form of cash deposits. These amounts are considered to be restricted cash.

In addition, cash held in connection with the securitised business is governed by certain restrictions under the covenants associated 
with the securitisation (note 19).

94 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013NOTES CONTINUEDFor the 53 weeks ended 5 October 201330. NET DEBT CONTINUED

Reconciliation of net cash flow to movement in net debt

Increase in cash and cash equivalents in the period
Cash inflow from movement in debt

Change in debt resulting from cash flows
Non-cash movements and deferred issue costs

Movement in net debt in the period
Net debt at beginning of the period

Net debt at end of the period

Reconciliation of net debt before lease financing to net debt

Cash and cash equivalents
Bank loans
Securitised debt
Preference shares

Net debt before lease financing
Finance leases
Other lease related borrowings

Net debt

31. OPERATING LEASES

2013 
£m 

33.3
(87.6)

(54.3)
(15.6)

2012 
£m 

7.8
(27.6)

(19.8)
(0.5)

(69.9)
(1,121.1)

(20.3)
(1,100.8)

(1,191.0)

(1,121.1)

2013 
£m 

94.1
(188.8)
(987.6)
(0.1)

(1,082.4)
(20.9)
(87.7)

2012 
£m 

60.8
(172.1)
(1,009.7)
(0.1)

(1,121.1)
– 
– 

(1,191.0)

(1,121.1)

The Group as lessee
The Group leases various properties and equipment under non-cancellable operating leases. The leases have various terms, escalation 
clauses and renewal rights. Future minimum lease rentals payable under non-cancellable operating leases are as follows:

Due:

Within one year
In more than one year but less than five years
In more than five years

2013

2012

Land and 
buildings 
£m 

11.5
43.4
156.1

211.0

Other
£m

0.4
0.3
–

0.7

Land and
buildings
£m

13.7
51.4
229.4

294.5

Other
£m

0.5
0.5
– 

1.0

The Group as lessor
The Group leases a proportion of its licensed estate and other non-licensed properties to tenants. The majority of lease agreements 
have terms of between 3 and 21 years and are classified as operating leases. Future minimum lease rentals receivable under non-
cancellable operating leases are as follows:

Due:

Within one year
In more than one year but less than five years
In more than five years

2013

2012

Land and 
buildings 
£m 

27.3
79.5
132.1

238.9

Other 
£m 

–
–
–

–

Land and 
buildings 
£m 

28.2
82.8
177.0

288.0

Other 
£m 

– 
– 
– 

– 

95 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 201332. FINANCE LEASES

The Group leases various properties under finance leases. The leases have various terms, escalation clauses and renewal rights. Future 
minimum lease payments under finance leases are as follows:

Due:

Within one year
In more than one year but less than five years
In more than five years

Future finance charges

Present value of finance lease obligations

The present value of finance lease obligations is as follows:

Due:

Within one year
In more than one year but less than five years
In more than five years

Present value of finance lease obligations

2013 
£m 

1.2
4.9
41.4

47.5
(26.6)

20.9

2013 
£m 

0.1
0.5
20.3

20.9

2012 
£m 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 

– 

2012 
£m 

– 
– 
– 

– 

33. PRINCIPAL SUBSIDIARY UNDERTAKINGS

Details of the Group’s principal subsidiary undertakings are provided in note 4 to the Company financial statements.

34. CONTINGENT LIABILITIES AND FINANCIAL COMMITMENTS

On 9 August 2005 the Group entered into a Tax Deed of Covenant, which was amended on 22 November 2007, the primary objective of 
which was to ensure that the Group did not trigger a de-grouping liability comprising Capital Gains Tax (CGT) and Stamp Duty Land Tax 
(SDLT). This would arise in the event of Marston’s Pubs Limited being sold outside the Group, within six years of the relevant asset 
transfer date for CGT purposes, and within three years of the relevant asset transfer date for SDLT purposes. Due to the passage of 
time and changes in the statutory rate of corporation tax, the total potential de-grouping liability now stands at £8.4 million (2012: £49.0 
million), of which £7.8 million (2012: £46.6 million) relates to CGT and £0.6 million (2012: £2.4 million) relates to SDLT.

The Group has issued a letter of credit in favour of Royal Sun Alliance Insurance totalling £2.6 million (2012: £3.7 million) and a letter of 
credit in favour of Aviva totalling £0.5 million (2012: £0.5 million) to secure reinsurance contracts. The letters of credit are secured on 
fixed deposits for the same amount.

The Group has also entered into a Deed of Guarantee with the trustees of the Marston’s PLC Pension and Life Assurance Scheme (‘the 
Scheme’) whereby it guarantees to the Trustees the ongoing obligations of the Group to contribute to the Scheme, and the obligations 
of the Group to contribute to the Scheme in the event of a debt becoming due under section 75 of the Pensions Act 1995 on the 
occurrence of either a Group company entering liquidation or the Scheme winding up.

35. EVENTS AFTER THE BALANCE SHEET DATE

Subsequent to the balance sheet date the Group extended its existing bank facility out to November 2018.

In November 2013 the Group entered into a sale and leaseback transaction in respect of 202 of its pubs for consideration  
of £90.0 million.

96 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013NOTES CONTINUEDFor the 53 weeks ended 5 October 2013INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT TO THE MEMBERS  
OF MARSTON’S PLC

REPORT ON THE PARENT COMPANY FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS
Our opinion  
In our opinion the Parent Company financial statements:
•	 give a true and fair view of the state of the Parent Company’s 
affairs as at 5 October 2013 and of its profit for the period  
then ended;

•	 have been properly prepared in accordance with United 
Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and
•	 have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of 

the Companies Act 2006.

This opinion is to be read in the context of what we say below.

What we have audited
The Parent Company financial statements, which are prepared by 
Marston’s PLC, comprise:
•	 the Parent Company Balance Sheet as at 5 October 2013; and
•	 the notes to the Parent Company financial statements, which 

include a summary of significant accounting policies and other 
explanatory information.

The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their 
preparation comprises applicable law and United Kingdom 
Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted 
Accounting Practice).

In applying the financial reporting framework, the Directors have 
made a number of subjective judgements, for example in respect 
of significant accounting estimates. In making such estimates, 
they have made assumptions and considered future events.

What an audit of financial statements involves 
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards 
on Auditing (UK & Ireland) (“ISAs (UK & Ireland)”). An audit involves 
obtaining evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the 
financial statements sufficient to give reasonable assurance that the 
financial statements are free from material misstatement, whether 
caused by fraud or error. This includes an assessment of:
•	 whether the accounting policies are appropriate to the Parent 

Company’s circumstances and have been consistently applied 
and adequately disclosed;

•	 the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made 

by the Directors; and 

•	 the overall presentation of the financial statements. 

In addition, we read all the financial and non-financial information 
in the Annual Report to identify material inconsistencies with the 
audited Parent Company financial statements and to identify any 
information that is apparently materially incorrect based on, or 
materially inconsistent with, the knowledge acquired by us in the 
course of performing the audit. If we become aware of any 
apparent material misstatements or inconsistencies we consider 
the implications for our report.

OPINIONS ON MATTERS PRESCRIBED BY THE 
COMPANIES ACT 2006
In our opinion:
•	 The information given in the Strategic Report and the 

Directors’ Report for the financial year for which the Parent 
Company financial statements are prepared is consistent with 
the Parent Company financial statements.

•	 The part of the Directors’ Remuneration Report to be audited 

has been properly prepared in accordance with the 
Companies Act 2006.

OTHER MATTERS ON WHICH WE ARE REQUIRED TO 
REPORT BY EXCEPTION
Adequacy of accounting records and information and 
explanations received
Under the Companies Act 2006 we are required to report to you 
if, in our opinion:
•	 we have not received all the information and explanations we 

require for our audit; or

•	 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.

We have no exceptions to report arising from this responsibility.

Directors’ remuneration
Under the Companies Act 2006 we are required to report if, in our 
opinion, certain disclosures of Directors’ remuneration specified 
by law have not been made. We have no exceptions to report 
arising from this responsibility.

Other information in the Annual Report
Under ISAs (UK and Ireland), we are required to report to you if,  
in our opinion, information in the Annual Report is:
•	 materially inconsistent with the information in the audited 

Parent Company financial statements; or

•	 apparently materially incorrect based on, or materially 

inconsistent with, our knowledge of the Parent Company 
acquired in the course of performing our audit; or

•	 is otherwise misleading.

We have no exceptions to report arising from this responsibility.

Our responsibilities and those of the Directors 
As explained more fully in the Statement of Directors’ 
Responsibilities set out on page 54, the Directors are responsible 
for the preparation of the Parent Company financial statements and 
for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view. 

Our responsibility is to audit and express an opinion on the Parent 
Company financial statements in accordance with applicable law 
and International Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland). Those 
standards require us to comply with the Auditing Practices 
Board’s Ethical Standards for Auditors. 

This report, including the opinions, has been prepared for and 
only for the Company’s members as a body in accordance with 
Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006 and for no other 
purpose. We do not, in giving these opinions, accept or assume 
responsibility for any other purpose or to any other person to 
whom this report is shown or into whose hands it may come save 
where expressly agreed by our prior consent in writing.

Other matter
We have reported separately on the Group financial statements of 
Marston’s PLC for the period ended 5 October 2013.

Mark Smith (Senior Statutory Auditor)
for and on behalf of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditors
Birmingham
28 November 2013

97 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013COMPANY BALANCE SHEET
As at 5 October 2013

Fixed assets
Tangible assets
Investments

Current assets
Assets held for sale
Debtors
  Amounts falling due within one year
  Amounts falling due after more than one year
Cash at bank and in hand

Creditors Amounts falling due within one year

Net current assets

Total assets less current liabilities

Creditors Amounts falling due after more than one year
Provisions for liabilities and charges

Net assets

Capital and reserves
Equity share capital
Share premium account
Revaluation reserve
Capital redemption reserve
Own shares
Profit and loss account

Total shareholders’ funds

5 October 
2013 
£m 

29 September 
2012 
£m 

Note

3 
4 

5 

6 
6 

7 

7 
8 

11 
12 
12 
12 
12 
12 

13 

314.5
260.9

575.4

185.1
260.9

446.0

5.7

10.1

787.5
629.1
28.3

825.0
566.1
29.1

1,450.6

1,430.3

(971.5)

479.1

1,054.5

(126.7)
(8.4)

919.4

44.4
333.8
52.8
6.8
(130.9)
612.5

919.4

(976.1)

454.2

900.2

(0.1)
(9.9)

890.2

44.3
332.8
52.6
6.8
(130.9)
584.6

890.2

The financial statements on pages 98 to 105 were approved by the Board on 28 November 2013 and signed on its behalf by:

Ralph Findlay
Chief Executive Officer
28 November 2013

98 

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013NOTES
For the 53 weeks ended 5 October 2013

1.  ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of preparation
The Company financial statements are prepared on the going concern basis, under the historical cost convention, as modified by the 
revaluation of certain freehold and leasehold properties and derivative financial instruments, and in accordance with the Companies Act 
2006 and applicable UK accounting standards.

As permitted by section 408(3) of the Companies Act 2006, no profit and loss account has been presented for the Company. As 
permitted by section 408(2) of the Companies Act 2006, information about the Company’s employee numbers and costs has not been 
presented.

Related party disclosures
The Company is exempt under the terms of FRS 8 from disclosing related party transactions with entities that are part of the Group.

Revenue and other operating income
Revenue represents rents receivable from licensed properties, which is recognised in the period to which it relates. Other operating 
income comprises mainly rents from unlicensed properties.

Current and deferred tax
The current tax charge is calculated on the basis of the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date and is 
measured at the amount expected to be paid to or recovered from the tax authorities.

Deferred tax is recognised in respect of all timing differences that have originated but not reversed by the balance sheet date that give 
rise to an obligation to pay more or less tax in the future. Timing differences are differences between the Company’s taxable profits and 
profits as stated in the financial statements. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are not discounted and assets are only recognised where 
recoverability is probable.

Fixed assets
•	 Freehold and leasehold properties are stated at valuation or at cost. Fixtures, fittings, plant and equipment are stated at cost.
•	 Depreciation is charged to the profit and loss account on a straight-line basis to provide for the cost of the assets less residual value 

over their useful lives.

•	 Freehold and long leasehold buildings are depreciated to residual value over 50 years.
•	 Short leasehold properties are depreciated over the life of the lease.
•	 Fixtures, fittings, plant and equipment are depreciated over periods ranging from 3 to 15 years.
•	 Own labour and interest costs directly attributable to capital projects are capitalised.
•	 Land is not depreciated.

Properties are revalued by qualified valuers at least once in each rolling five year period, on an existing use basis. Substantially all of the 
Company’s properties have been externally valued in accordance with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors’ Red Book. These 
valuations are performed directly by reference to observable prices in an active market or recent market transactions on arm’s length 
terms. Internal valuations are performed on the same basis.

When a valuation is below current carrying value, the asset concerned is reviewed for impairment. Impairment losses are charged to the 
revaluation reserve to the extent that a previous gain has been recorded, and thereafter to the profit and loss account. Surpluses on 
revaluation are recognised in the revaluation reserve, except to the extent they reverse previously charged impairment losses, in which 
case the reversal is recorded in the profit and loss account.

Assets held for sale
Assets, typically properties, are categorised as held for sale when the value of the asset will be recovered through a sale transaction 
rather than continuing use. This condition is met when the sale is highly probable, the asset is available for immediate sale in its present 
condition and is being actively marketed. In addition, the Company must be committed to the sale and completion should be expected 
to occur within one year from the date of classification. Assets held for sale are valued at the lower of carrying value and fair value less 
costs to sell, and are no longer depreciated.

Disposals of fixed assets
Profit/loss on disposal of fixed assets represents net sale proceeds less carrying value of the assets. Any element of the revaluation 
reserve relating to the fixed assets disposed of is transferred to the profit and loss reserve at the date of sale.

Leases
Rental costs under operating leases are charged to the profit and loss account over the term of the lease. The cost of assets held under 
finance leases is included within tangible fixed assets and depreciation is provided in accordance with the policy for the class of asset 
concerned. The corresponding obligations under those leases are shown as creditors. The finance charge element of rentals is charged 
to the profit and loss account as incurred.

99 

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 20131.  ACCOUNTING POLICIES CONTINUED

Lease premiums received are recognised on a straight-line basis over the life of the lease.

Obligations arising from sale and leaseback arrangements with repurchase options that do not fall within the scope of SSAP 21 
‘Accounting for leases and hire purchase contracts’ are classified as other lease related borrowings and accounted for in accordance 
with FRS 26 ‘Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement’.

Investments in subsidiaries
Investments in subsidiaries are stated at cost, less any provision for diminution in value.

Provisions
Provisions are recognised in the balance sheet when the Company has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of a past 
event and it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation.

Dividends
Dividends proposed by the Board but unpaid at the period end are recognised in the financial statements when they have been 
approved by the shareholders. Interim dividends are recognised when paid.

Preference shares
Preference shares are treated as borrowings, and dividends payable on those preference shares are charged as interest in the profit 
and loss account.

Group undertakings
There is an intra group funding agreement in place between the Company and certain other members of the Marston’s Group. This 
agreement stipulates that all balances outstanding on any intercompany loan account between these companies which exceed £1 are 
interest bearing at a prescribed rate.

In the current period it was agreed that no interest would be charged on any balances due to/from certain Group companies during the 
period of their restructuring.

There is a 12.5% subordinated loan due to the Company from Marston’s Pubs Limited. No interest is payable on any other amounts 
owed by/to Group companies who are not party to the intra group funding agreement.

All amounts owed by/to Group undertakings are unsecured and, with the exception of the subordinated loan, repayable on demand.

Derivative financial instruments
The Company uses derivative financial instruments to hedge the Group’s exposure to fluctuations in interest rates. Derivative financial 
instruments are initially recognised in the balance sheet at fair value and are subsequently remeasured to their fair value at each balance 
sheet date. The Company has not designated any derivative financial instruments as hedging instruments and as such any gains or 
losses on remeasurement are recognised in the profit and loss account immediately.

2.  AUDITORS’ REMUNERATION

Fees payable to the Company’s Auditors for the audit of the Company’s annual accounts are disclosed in note 3 to the Group financial 
statements. Fees paid to the Company’s Auditors for non-audit services to the Company itself are not required to be disclosed as the 
Group financial statements disclose such fees on a consolidated basis.

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013100NOTES CONTINUEDFor the 53 weeks ended 5 October 20133.  TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS

Cost or valuation
At 30 September 2012
Additions
Net transfers to assets held for sale and disposals
Revaluation
Net transfers from Group undertakings

At 5 October 2013

Depreciation
At 30 September 2012
Charge for the period
Net transfers to assets held for sale and disposals
Revaluation

At 5 October 2013

Net book value at 29 September 2012

Net book value at 5 October 2013

The net book value of land and buildings is split as follows:

Freehold properties
Leasehold properties over 50 years unexpired
Leasehold properties under 50 years unexpired

Cost or valuation of land and buildings comprises:

Valuation
At cost

Land and 
buildings 
£m 

176.5
37.7
(0.7)
2.2
84.5

300.2

0.3
1.2
–
(0.4)

1.1

176.2

299.1

Fixtures, 
fittings, 
plant and 
equipment 
£m 

15.5
8.0
(1.3)
–
–

22.2

6.6
1.5
(1.3)
–

6.8

8.9

15.4

2013 
£m 

207.3
78.1
13.7

299.1

2013 
£m 

264.1
36.1

300.2

Total 
£m 

192.0
45.7
(2.0)
2.2
84.5

322.4

6.9
2.7
(1.3)
(0.4)

7.9

185.1

314.5

2012 
£m 

120.3
44.9
11.0

176.2

2012 
£m 

175.5
1.0

176.5

If the land and buildings had not been revalued, the historical cost net book value would be £246.5 million (2012: £123.8 million).

Cost at 5 October 2013 includes £6.3 million (2012: £1.0 million) of assets in the course of construction.

Capital expenditure authorised and committed at the period end but not provided for in the financial statements was £0.5 million  
(2012: £1.0 million).

The net book value of land and buildings held under finance leases at 5 October 2013 was £21.4 million (2012: £nil). The net book value 
of land and buildings held as part of sale and leaseback arrangements that do not fall within the scope of SSAP 21 ‘Accounting for 
leases and hire purchase contracts’ was £112.0 million (2012: £nil).

Revaluation/impairment
During the current period various properties were reviewed for impairment and/or material changes in value. These valuation 
adjustments were recognised in the revaluation reserve or the income statement as appropriate.

At 1 July 2012 independent chartered surveyors revalued the Company’s freehold and leasehold properties on an open market value 
basis. These valuations were incorporated into the financial statements and the resulting revaluation adjustments were taken to the 
revaluation reserve or profit and loss account as appropriate.

101

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 20132013 
£m 

–
1.6

1.6

1.0
–

1.0

2.6

2012 
£m 

(25.2)
0.6

(24.6)

27.7
(4.6)

23.1

(1.5)

Subsidiary 
undertakings 
£m 

312.0 

51.1 

260.9 

260.9 

3.  TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS CONTINUED

The impact of the revaluations/impairments described above is as follows:

Profit and loss account:
Revaluation loss charged as an impairment
Reversal of past impairments

Revaluation reserve:
Unrealised revaluation surplus
Reversal of past revaluation surplus

Net increase/(decrease) in shareholders’ funds/fixed assets

4.  FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS

Cost

At 30 September 2012 and 5 October 2013

Impairments

At 30 September 2012 and 5 October 2013

Net book value at 29 September 2012

Net book value at 5 October 2013

The principal subsidiary undertakings are:

Marston’s Trading Limited
Marston’s Property Developments Limited 
Marston’s Pubs Limited
Marston’s Estates Limited
Marston’s Operating Limited
Banks’s Brewery Insurance Limited

Country of incorporation

Nature of business

% held

Class of share

England
England
England
England
England
Guernsey

Pub retailer and brewer
Property developer
Pub retailer
Property management
Pub retailer and brewer
Insurance

Ordinary £5 shares
100
Ordinary £1 shares
100
100
Ordinary £1 shares
100 Ordinary 25p shares
Ordinary £1 shares
100
Ordinary £1 shares
100

Details of the principal operating subsidiaries by type of business are set out above. All of these are held directly by Marston’s PLC with the 
exception of Marston’s Operating Limited, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marston’s Estates Limited, and Marston’s Pubs Limited, 
which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marston’s Pubs Parent Limited, an intermediate holding company. A complete list of subsidiary 
undertakings is available at the Group’s registered office and will be filed with the next Annual Return. All subsidiaries have been included in 
the consolidated financial statements.

The Group financial statements also include the consolidation of Marston’s Issuer PLC, which the Directors consider to be a special 
purpose entity. The ultimate parent undertaking of Marston’s Issuer PLC is Wilmington Trust SP Services (London) Limited, which holds 
the shares of the company’s parent company under a charitable trust. Marston’s Issuer PLC was set up with the sole purpose of issuing 
debt secured on the assets of Marston’s Pubs Limited.

102

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013NOTES CONTINUEDFor the 53 weeks ended 5 October 20135.  ASSETS HELD FOR SALE

Properties

6.  DEBTORS

Amounts falling due within one year

Amounts owed by Group undertakings
Interest owed by Group undertakings
Derivative financial instruments
Prepayments and accrued income
Other debtors

Amounts falling due after more than one year

12.5% subordinated loan owed by Group undertakings

7.  CREDITORS

Amounts falling due within one year

Amounts owed to Group undertakings
Interest owed to Group undertakings
Finance leases
Corporation tax
Accruals and deferred income
Derivative financial instruments
Other creditors

Other creditors represent amounts payable in respect of a supplier credit arrangement.

Amounts falling due after more than one year

Finance leases
Other lease related borrowings
Preference shares
Accruals and deferred income

2013 
£m 

5.7

2013 
£m 

733.7
30.2
22.6
0.1
0.9

787.5

2013 
£m 

2012 
£m 

10.1

2012 
£m 

761.4
22.9
38.2
2.3
0.2

825.0

2012 
£m 

629.1

566.1

2013 
£m 

876.2
43.7
0.1
17.0
1.6
22.6
10.3

971.5

2013 
£m 

20.8
87.7
0.1
18.1

126.7

2012 
£m 

884.2
33.5
– 
6.1
3.1
38.2
11.0

976.1

2012 
£m 

– 
– 
0.1 
–

0.1

The preference shares carry a right to a fixed preferential dividend. They participate in the event of a winding-up and carry the right to 
attend and vote at general meetings of the Company.

Liabilities disclosed under creditors falling due after more than one year which are due for repayment after more than five years from the 
balance sheet date total £108.3 million (2012: £0.1 million).

103

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 20138.  PROVISIONS FOR LIABILITIES AND CHARGES

At 30 September 2012
Released in the period
Provided in the period
Unwinding of discount
Utilised in the period
Credited to the profit and loss account

At 5 October 2013

Deferred 
tax 
£m 

Property 
leases 
£m 

6.0
–
–
–
–
(0.3)

5.7

3.9
(0.6)
0.3
0.1
(1.0)
–

2.7

Total 
£m 

9.9
(0.6)
0.3
0.1
(1.0)
(0.3)

8.4

When valuations of leasehold properties (based on future estimated discounted income streams) give rise to a deficit as a result of 
onerous lease conditions they are recognised as liabilities in provisions. Payments are expected to continue on these properties for 
periods of 1 to 31 years (2012: 1 to 32 years).

Deferred tax
The amount provided in respect of deferred tax is as follows:

Excess of capital allowances over accumulated depreciation

2013 
£m 

5.7

2012 
£m 

6.0 

Deferred tax has been calculated at the tax rates expected to apply in the periods in which timing differences reverse, based on tax 
rates and laws enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date.

9.  OPERATING LEASE COMMITMENTS

At 5 October 2013 the Company had annual commitments under non-cancellable operating leases as follows:

Leases which expire:

Within one year
Later than one year and less than five years
After five years

10. FINANCE LEASE OBLIGATIONS

Obligations under finance leases are as follows:

Due:

Within one year
Later than one year and less than five years
After five years

Future finance charges

Present value of finance lease obligations

11. SHARE CAPITAL

Allotted, called up and fully paid

Ordinary shares of 7.375p each:
At beginning of the period
Allotted under share option schemes

At end of the period

2013

Land and 
buildings 
£m 

0.1
0.5
4.2

4.8

Other 
£m 

–
–
–

–

2012

Land and 
buildings 
£m 

– 
0.5
5.9

6.4

2013 
£m 

1.2
4.9
41.4

47.5
(26.6)

20.9

2013

Number 
m 

601.1
1.5

602.6

Value 
£m 

44.3
0.1

44.4

2012

Number 
m 

600.9 
0.2

601.1

Other 
£m 

–
–
–

–

2012 
£m 

–
–
–

–
–

–

Value 
£m 

44.3 
– 

44.3

Further information on share capital is provided in note 27 to the Group financial statements.

104

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013NOTES CONTINUEDFor the 53 weeks ended 5 October 201312. RESERVES

At 30 September 2012
Issue of shares
Property revaluation 
Disposal of properties
Transfer to profit and loss account
Profit for the financial period
Dividends paid

At 5 October 2013

Share 
premium 
account 
£m 

332.8 
1.0
–
–
–
–
–

333.8

Revaluation 
reserve 
£m 

Capital 
redemption 
reserve 
£m 

52.6
–
1.0
(0.4)
(0.4)
–
–

52.8

6.8
–
–
–
–
–
–

6.8

Own 
shares 
£m 

(130.9)
–
–
–
–
–
–

(130.9)

The capital redemption reserve arose on share buy-backs.

Details of own shares are provided in note 28 to the Group financial statements.

13. RECONCILIATION OF MOVEMENT IN SHAREHOLDERS’ FUNDS

Profit for the financial period
Dividends paid
Issue of shares
Revaluation of properties

Net addition to shareholders’ funds
Opening shareholders’ funds

Closing shareholders’ funds

14. CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

Profit 
and loss 
account 
£m 

584.6
–
–
0.4
0.4
62.4
(35.3)

612.5

2013 
£m 

62.4
(35.3)
1.1
1.0

29.2
890.2

919.4

Total 
£m 

845.9
1.0
1.0
–
–
62.4
(35.3)

875.0

2012 
£m 

15.1
(33.5)
0.2
23.1

4.9
885.3

890.2

The Company has entered into a Deed of Guarantee with Marston’s Trading Limited (‘Trading’) and the Trustees of the Marston’s PLC 
Pension and Life Assurance Scheme (‘the Scheme’) whereby it guarantees to the Trustees the ongoing obligations of Trading to 
contribute to the Scheme and the obligations of Trading to contribute to the Scheme in the event of a debt becoming due under section 
75 of the Pensions Act 1995 on the occurrence of either Trading entering liquidation or the Scheme winding up.

On 14 December 2011 the Company, together with a number of its subsidiary undertakings, entered into a Deed of Guarantee with 
Barclays Bank PLC whereby it guarantees the obligations of Marston’s Trading Limited to Barclays Bank PLC. The maximum aggregate 
liability of the Guarantors under the deed as at 5 October 2013 was £15.0 million (2012: £20.0 million).

15. POST BALANCE SHEET EVENTS

In November 2013 the Company entered into a sale and leaseback transaction in respect of 202 pubs held by other Group companies 
for consideration of £90.0 million. These pubs will be transferred to the Company prior to the completion of the sale and leaseback.

105

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013INFORMATION FOR SHAREHOLDERS

Annual General Meeting
The Company’s AGM will be held on 21 January 2014 at 12 noon at Wolverhampton Racecourse, Holiday Inn Garden Court, Dunstall 
Park, Wolverhampton, WV6 0PE.

Financial calendar

Ex-dividend date for final dividend
Record date for final dividend
AGM and Interim Management Statement
Final dividend payment date
Half-year results
Ex-dividend date for interim dividend
Interim dividend payment date

18 December 2013
20 December 2013
21 January 2014
3 February 2014
May 2014
May 2014
July 2014

These dates are indicative only and may be subject to change.

The Marston’s PLC website
Shareholders are encouraged to visit our website www.marstons.co.uk for further information about the Company. The dedicated 
Investors section on the website contains information specifically for shareholders including share price information, historical dividend 
amounts and payment dates together with this year’s (and prior years’) Annual Report and Accounts.

Registrars

The Company’s shareholder register is maintained by our Registrar Equiniti. If you have any queries relating to your Marston’s PLC 
shareholding you should contact Equiniti directly by one of the methods below:

Online: www.shareview.co.uk – from here you will be able to securely email Equiniti with your query.
Telephone: 0871 384 2274*
Text phone: 0871 384 2255*
By post: Equiniti, Aspect House, Spencer Road, Lancing, West Sussex, BN99 6DA

Dividend payments
By completing a bank mandate form dividends can be paid directly into your bank or building society account. Those selecting this 
payment method will benefit from receiving cleared funds in their bank account on the payment date, avoiding postal delays and 
removing the risk of any cheques being lost in the post. To change how you receive your dividends contact Equiniti or visit  
www.shareview.co.uk

Duplicate documents
If you have received two or more sets of the documents concerning the AGM this means that there is more than one account in your 
name on the shareholder register, perhaps because either your name or your address appear on each account in a slightly different 
way. If you think this might be the case and would like to combine your accounts, please contact Equiniti.

Moving house?
It is important that you notify Equiniti of your new address as soon as possible. If you hold 1,500 shares or fewer, and reside in the 
UK, this can be done quickly over the telephone. However, for holdings greater than 1,500 shares your instruction will need to be in 
writing, quoting your full name, shareholder reference number (if known), previous address and new address.

Electronic communications
Changes in legislation in recent years allow the Company to use its corporate website as the main way to communicate with 
shareholders. Annual Report and Accounts are only sent to those shareholders who have opted to receive a paper copy. Registering 
to receive shareholder documentation from the Company electronically will allow shareholders to:
•	 view the Annual Report and Accounts on the day it is published;
•	 receive an email alert when the Annual Report and Accounts and any other shareholder documents are available;
•	 cast their AGM votes electronically; and
•	 manage their shareholding quickly and securely online, through www.shareview.co.uk

This reduces our impact on the environment, minimises waste and reduces printing and mailing costs. For further information and to 
register for electronic shareholder communications visit www.shareview.co.uk

106

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013Buying and selling shares in the UK
If you wish to buy or sell Marston’s PLC shares and hold a share certificate, you can:
•	 use the services of a stockbroker or high street bank; or
•	 use a telephone or online service.

If you sell your shares in this way you will need to present your share certificate at the time of sale. Details of low cost dealing services 
may be obtained from www.shareview.co.uk or 0845 603 7037**.

Share fraud warning
Share fraud includes scams where investors are called out of the blue and offered shares that often turn out to be worthless or 
non-existent, or an inflated price for shares they own. These calls come from fraudsters operating ‘boiler rooms’ that are mostly based 
abroad. While high profits are promised, those who buy or sell shares in this way usually lose their money. The Financial Conduct 
Authority (FCA) has found most share fraud victims are experienced investors who lose an average of £20,000, with around £200 million 
lost in the UK each year.

If you are offered unsolicited investment advice, discounted shares, a premium price for shares you own, or free company or research 
reports, you should take these steps before handing over any money:
•	 Get the name of the person and organisation contacting you.
•	 Check the Financial Services Register at www.fca.org.uk/register to ensure they are authorised.
•	 Use the details on the FCA Register to contact the firm.
•	 Call the FCA Consumer Helpline on 0800 111 6768 if there are no contact details on the Register or you are told they are out of date.
•	 Search the FCA list of unauthorised firms and individuals to avoid doing business with.
•	 Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

If you use an unauthorised firm to buy or sell shares or other investments, you will not have access to the Financial Ombudsman Service 
or Financial Services Compensation Scheme if things go wrong.

If you are approached about a share scam you should tell the FCA using the share fraud reporting form at www.fca.org.uk, where you 
will find out about the latest investment scams. You can also call the Consumer Helpline on 0800 111 6768.

If you have already paid money to share fraudsters you should contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.

*  Calls cost 8 pence per minute plus network extras. Lines are open from 8.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday.
**  Lines are open Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 4.30pm for dealing and until 6:00pm for enquiries.

Company details
Registered office: Marston’s House, Brewery Road, Wolverhampton, WV1 4JT
Telephone: 01902 711811
Company registration number: 31461

107

Financial StatementsMarston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013PICTURE REFERENCE

Front cover: The Two Rivers, Chepstow

Inside cover: The Angel & Blue Pig, Lymington

Page 2:

Merrie Garden, Sandown, Isle of Wight

Page 8:

Horse & Jockey, Walsall Wood

Page 10:

Page 13:

The Pine Marten, Dunbar  
Merrie Garden, Isle of Wight

The Abbey Mead, Swindon, Wiltshire  
Jacob’s Inn, Wolvercote, Oxford

Back cover: The George & Dragon, Arundel, West Sussex

108

Marston’s PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2013Marston’s PLC
Marston’s House  
Brewery Road 
Wolverhampton 
WV1 4JT
Registered No. 31461
Telephone 01902 711811

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