Quarterlytics / Restaurants / Revolution Bars Group

Revolution Bars Group

rbg · LSE
Claim this profile
Ticker rbg
Exchange LSE
Sector
Industry Restaurants
Employees 1001-5000
← All annual reports
FY2018 Annual Report · Revolution Bars Group
Sign in to download
Loading PDF…
REVOLUTION BARS GROUP PLC 
ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2018

R

e

v

o

l

u

t

i

o

n

B

a

r

s

G

r

o

u

p

p

l

c

A

n

n

u

a

l

R

e

p

o

r

t

a

n

d

A

c

c

o

u

n

t

s

2

0

1

8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
WE ARE  
A LEADING 
OPERATOR OF 
PREMIUM BARS

...with two strong brands, “Revolution” 
and “Revolución de Cuba”. We have a 
strong national presence across the UK 
and significant growth opportunities. We 
currently trade from an estate of 76 bars 
located predominantly in town or city 
centre high streets. 

Our bars focus on a premium drinks and 
food-led offering and typically trade from 
late morning through into late evening.

Read more on the At a glance Pages 2 and 3

Read Our Strategy Pages 16 and 17

Number of sites at:

Revolution

Revolución 
de Cuba

At IPO

FY16

FY17

FY18

Total at 30 June 2018

– Launched FY19

– Planned for H1 FY19

Target in H1 FY19

Forecast at 31 Dec 2018

52

1

2

3

58

1

1

2

60

5

4

4

3

16

1

2

3

19

Total

57

5

6

6

74

2

3

5

79

Highlights

Revenue £m

£141.9m

.

9
1
4
1

.

5
0
3
1

.

5
9
1
1

.

8
1
1
1

.

7
8
0
1

Gross margin £m

£108.2m

.

2
8
0
1

.

4
9
9

.

0
0
9

.

6
4
8

.

5
1
8

18

17

16

15

14

18

17

16

15

14

Adjusted EBITDA*** £m

Adjusted PBT*** £m

£15.0m

£8.0m

.

0
5
1

.

1
5
1

.

6
4
1

.

4
3
1

.

2
3
1

.

4
9

.

0
8

9
7

.

3
8

.

4
7

.

18

17

16

15

14

18

17

16

15

14

* 

 Restated – see Note 1(b) of the consolidated financial statements for an 
explanation and analysis of the prior period adjustments included in 
respect of the profit for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017.

**   Like-for-like sales are defined as total retail sales from bars that have been 

trading continuously for at least 12 months.

***   Adjusted performance measures exclude exceptional items, bar opening 
costs and share-based payments (see reconciliation table on page 22 of 
the Financial Review).

01
01

IFC

IFC

02

04

08

12

14

16

18

20

25

28

30

32

33

34

38

54

58

59

62

63

70

71

72

73

74

96

97

98

99

Strategic report

Corporate statement 

Highlights 

At a glance 

Chairman’s statement 

Chief Executive Officer’s statement 

Our markets 

Our business model 

Our strategy 

Risks 

Financial review 

Corporate and social responsibility statement 

Corporate governance

Introduction to governance 

Board of Directors 

Senior management 

Viability statement 

 Corporate governance report 

Remuneration report 

  Audit Committee report 

 Nomination Committee report 

Directors’ report 

Directors’ responsibility statement 

Financial statements

Independent auditor’s report 

Consolidated statement of profit and loss  
and other comprehensive income 

Consolidated statement of financial position 

Consolidated statement of changes in equity 

Consolidated statement of cash flow 

Notes to the consolidated financial information 

Company statement of financial position 

Company statement of changes in equity 

Company statement of cash flow 

Notes to the Company financial information 

Corporate information 

IBC

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial performance
>  Revenue of £141.9 million (2017: £130.5 million), an increase 

of 8.7 per cent

>  Like-for-like sales** decline of 0.6 per cent
>  Adjusted*** Operating profit £8.5 million (2017 Restated*: 

£9.6 million)

>  Adjusted EBITDA*** £15.0 million (2017: £15.1 million), 

in line with revised guidance

>  Loss before tax of £3.6 million (2017 Restated*: 

profit £5.2 million)

>  Adjusted profit before tax*** of £8.0 million (2017 Restated*: 

£9.4 million)

>  Gross margin improved by 10 bps
>  (Loss) per share (5.7p) (FY17 Restated*: Earnings 7.7p)
>  Adjusted EPS*** of 13.0 pence (2017 Restated*: 14.6 pence)
>  Final dividend of 3.3 pence per share (2017: 3.3 pence 

per share)

Estate development
> Six new sites opened in the year and are trading well
>  The Group invested £14.2 million in total during the period, 
including £9.8 million related to new venues and £4.4 million 
related to developing and maintaining the existing business 

Current trading
>  Like-for-like sales decline for first quarter of current year  

-5.0 per cent

> Five openings confirmed in first half of FY19

02

STRATEGIC REPORT
AT A GLANCE

OUR STRONG SPIRIT MEANS...
OUR CONFIDENCE IN THE POTENTIAL 
OF THE GROUP IS UNDIMINISHED

Investment case

TRADING FROM
76 BARS

(AT 2 OCTOBER 2018)

TOTAL SALES
INCREASED 8.7%
£141.9M

CONFIRMED OPENINGS 
FOR FIRST HALF FY19

5 BARS

(2 ALREADY OPENED SINCE 30 JUNE 2018)

DIVIDEND 
4.95 pence

(PER SHARE)

INCREASED  
DIGITAL PRESENCE
1.1M 
FACEBOOK FANS

77K 
INSTAGRAM USERS

ACROSS REVOLUTION AND 
REVOLUCIÓN DE CUBA

What we do
Revolution Bars Group plc is a leading 
operator of premium bars, with a strong 
national presence across the UK and 
significant growth opportunity. We have 
a trading portfolio of 76 bars located 
predominantly in town or city high 
streets operating under the Revolution 
and Revolución de Cuba brands. We 
believe there to be significant scope 
for expansion.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

03

Our brands

Our Revolution bars have been trading since 1996 and are 
a destination of choice for customers who value a premium 
drinks and food-led offering.

Operational priorities
 >  Consistently providing outstanding service and unbeatable 

quality to our customers.

Each Revolution bar has its own character, individual design 
and layout, with bar interiors tailored on a site-by-site basis 
to utilise the space available and the best attributes of the 
architecture of each property.

 > Substantial training investment driving service performance. 

 > Constantly innovating to ensure that we offer our 

customers a market-leading range of cocktails and spirits. 

The success of the Revolution brand is driven by our 
customers’ desire to be entertained outside of their 
homes in highly invested, exciting, quality, contemporary 
environments. The principal revenue streams are generated 
from a wide range of premium cocktails and drinks and our 
lunchtime and evening food offerings.

 > Roll-out of the brand in selective high street locations 

throughout the UK.

VENUES   
59

DRINKS   
– wide range of premium cocktails and drinks

ENTERTAINMENT   
– mainstream “feel good” music

FOOD   
– classics and new enticing offerings 

The bar design differs from the Revolution concept, with 
Revolución de Cuba bars being characterised by their 1940s 
Cuban-inspired style, with dark woods, traditional bar 
counters, antique tiles, vintage furniture, Havana-style ceiling 
fans and original Cuban artwork and photographs, with each 
bar tailored to give it an individual character.

The success of our Revolución de Cuba brand is driven by 
the Cuban-inspired premium proposition offering cocktails, 
food and live music to a wide range of customers. The 
principal revenue streams are generated from our rum-led 
cocktail range coupled with a Spanish and Mexican-based 
tapas-inspired food menu and authentic live Latin music 
and entertainment.

Operational priorities
 >  Consistently providing outstanding service and unbeatable 

quality to our customers.

 > Providing ongoing training to our people to offer the 

highest service standards.

 > Roll-out of the brand in selective high street locations 

throughout the UK.

VENUES   
17

DRINKS   
– rum-led cocktail range and Mexican and Spanish beers

ENTERTAINMENT   
– live Cuban/Spanish bands

FOOD   
– regular refresh and new menu offerings 

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

04

STRATEGIC REPORT
CHAIRMAN’S STATEMENT

WE REMAIN CONFIDENT THAT THE 
BUSINESS IS WELL POSITIONED FOR 
A RETURN TO GROWTH

Summary

>  The Board paid an interim dividend this year 
of 1.65 pence per share (2017: 1.65 pence 
per share).

>  Subject to approval at the Company’s Annual 
general meeting (“AGM”), we will pay a final 
dividend of 3.3 pence per share (2017: 3.3 
pence per share).

"

OUTSTANDING CUSTOMER 
EXPERIENCE IS AT THE 
HEART OF OUR STRATEGY."

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

05

As the Chairman of Revolution Bars 
Group plc, it is my privilege to introduce 
this, our fourth annual report and 
accounts for the 52 weeks ended 
30 June 2018. 

Our business
The Group is a leading operator of 
76 premium bars with a strong presence 
throughout the UK for its two high quality 
retail brands: Revolution, which is focused 
on young adults; and Revolución de Cuba, 
which attracts a broader age range. 
The Group is wet led but also offers 
food, a significant growth opportunity.

Providing exceptional customer 
experiences is at the heart of the 
business’ strategy to drive like-for-like 
sales growth through repeat visits and 
word-of-mouth marketing, while attracting 
new customers with targeted offers and 
social media activity. In addition, the 
Group seeks to expand its footprint with 
new sites in good locations.

At the beginning of the period, the Group 
operated from 67 venues (54 Revolution 
and 13 Revolución de Cuba venues). 
During the reporting period there were six 
new venue openings, three of each brand, 
as well as a re-opening of a bar. Therefore, 
the Group traded from 74 venues at the 
end of the reporting period since when 
two further bars have opened, one 
Revolution and one Revolución de Cuba.

Corporate activity and 
management changes
The business experienced significant, 
and well-documented, levels of corporate 
activity in the first half followed by the 
resignation of the Chief Executive Officer. 
During that activity, development work 
stalled while management was distracted, 
and in the aftermath a number of 
experienced senior managers on the 
operational side of the business resigned 
causing further disruption which adversely 
impacted trading. In this light, delivering 
record Christmas sales was an excellent 
result for the business.

There is no further update on a possible 
acquisition of Deltic following the 
statement regarding media speculation 
on 7 September 2018. The Board will 
notify shareholders of any developments.

Trading conditions and  
like-for-like sales**
Like-for-like sales in the first half (up to and 
including week 27 to include New Year’s 
Eve in both periods) were +1.9 per cent, 
aided by record Christmas sales. In the 
second half (excluding week 27) like-for-
like sales were -3.2 per cent.

Our Board
The Group’s CEO, Mark McQuater, 
resigned from the Board on 17 October 
2017. I stepped in immediately as 
Executive Chairman and fulfilled that role 
until Rob Pitcher took up his appointment 
as the new CEO on 25 June 2018, when 
I reverted to Non-executive Chairman.

We estimate that the “Beast from the East” 
disrupted sales by circa £0.5 million in 
early March; Easter trading was disrupted 
by the failure of Conviviality, owner of the 
Group’s principal supplier, Matthew Clark, 
further distracting management from 
implementing new initiatives; and the 
hottest summer on record combined with 
England’s World Cup run detracted from 
the appeal of our bars, which do not have 
TVs or significant outside areas. These 
factors together with an unsettled 
workforce and the widely documented 
cost pressures faced by the whole sector 
have led to 2017/18 being a disappointing 
year and one from which we expect to 
significantly improve upon.

Our results
Sales of £141.9 million (2017: £130.5 million) 
were up +8.7 per cent, driven by new site 
openings. Adjusted EBITDA*** of £15.0 million 
(2017 Restated: £15.1 million) was broadly 
similar to the prior period and in line with 
our revised guidance. Adjusted EBITDA*** 
is the key measure of underlying 
performance as it excludes exceptional 
items, bar opening costs that are a 
function of the timing of the new venue 
development programme and (credits)/
charges arising from long-term incentive 
plans that are more reflective of changes 
in senior management than trading. 

After exceptional items of £11.1 million 
(2017 Restated*: £2.3 million), bar opening 
costs of £2.0 million (2017: £1.4 million) and 
a credit from long-term incentive plans 
of £1.6 million (2017: charge £0.5 million), 
the operating loss was £3.0 million 
(2017 Restated*: profit £5.5 million).

Exceptional items include non-cash 
charges of £7.8 million for onerous lease 
provisions and asset impairments (2017 
Restated*: £1.9 million). The cash element 
£3.3 million (2017: £0.4 million) relates 
primarily to fees and expenses following 
the period’s corporate activity.

The Board adopted an extensive and 
rigorous search for a new CEO and was 
particularly keen to recruit an individual 
with strong operational credentials, 
hands-on experience of other disciplines 
including marketing and human resources, 
and responsibility for a significantly sized 
business. Rob fits the description perfectly. 

Michael Shallow, who was appointed just 
prior to the Company’s listing on the 
London Stock Exchange in March 2015 has 
advised the Board that he intends not to 
seek re-election at the forthcoming AGM 
and will stand down form the Board on 
that date. Jemima Bird will become senior 
Non-executive director from the date 
of the AGM. A search is underway for 
an additional Non-executive Director.

Jemima Bird has served as our third 
Non-executive independent Director 
since January 2017.

Our auditor
Towards the end of 2017, the Board 
conducted a tender process for the 
provision of audit services to the Group. 
As a result of the tender process, 
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP was 
appointed as the new independent 
auditor to the Group.  

Our dividend
Given underlying earnings, as measured 
by adjusted EBITDA***, broadly in line with 
the prior period, the Board is proposing 
a maintained final dividend of 3.3 pence 
per share (2017: 3.3 pence). This will result 
in the dividend for the period being at 
4.95 pence per share, an interim dividend 
of 1.65 pence per share (2017: 1.65 pence) 
having been paid on 12 April 2018.

The final dividend is subject to approval 
at the Company’s AGM and will be paid 
on 7 December 2018.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

06

STRATEGIC REPORT
CHAIRMAN’S STATEMENT CONTINUED

Our people
The Group employs over 3,200 people 
who provide the outstanding customer 
experience that is at the heart of 
our strategy. Those individuals are 
complemented and supported by 
many others who work long, hard hours 
providing the necessary support for our 
front-line staff. Strong cohesive teams 
have been built across our business with 
a focus on staff training and development 
to continuously improve individual 
capabilities and trading performance. 
I would like to recognise the commitment 
and the substantial effort of all our employees 
and thank them for their contribution to the 
Group’s performance. It is their continued 
dedication and commitment to the business, 
together with a clear strategic plan, that is 
integral to our achievements.

Our future
In the first quarter of FY19, like-for-like** 
sales are -5.0 per cent. However, with 
many exciting initiatives planned or 
currently being implemented, as detailed 
in the CEO’s Statement, we are confident 
of improvement. In addition, pre-booked 
revenue for the critically important 
Christmas trading period is currently up 
20.3 per cent on the same time last year 
(up 13.8 per cent on a like-for-like** basis), 
which we expect to aid our performance. 
Furthermore, we do not anticipate 
a recurrence of the same external 
circumstances experienced to date 
in 2018.

Under Rob Pitcher, we anticipate following 
the same strategy with two strong but 
differing brands which we will continue 
to grow. Since the period end, we have 
opened Revolution Glasgow and 
Revolución de Cuba Southampton with 
both trading in line with expectations. 
We expect to deliver five new openings 
in the first half, with an additional three 
sites expected to open prior to the end 
of November 2018 to benefit from the 
important Christmas trading period.

"

T H E   S T R E N G T H   O F   O U R   N E W   V E N U E 
P I P E L I N E   A N D   G O O D   OV E R A L L 
R E T U R N S   O F   O U R   N E W   S I T E S   G I V E 
U S   C O N F I D E N C E   I N   T H E   B R A N D S 
A N D   AC H I E V I N G   F U R T H E R   G R OW T H . 
R O B   P I TC H E R ’ S   O P E R AT I O N A L   A N D 
E X E C U T I O N A L   F O C U S ,   T H E   R E C E N T LY 
S T R E N G T H E N E D   O P E R AT I O N S   T E A M S , 
AND THE GOOD RANGE OF INITIATIVES 
P L A N N E D   O R   B E I N G   I M P L E M E N T E D 
M E A N S   T H AT   O U R   B E L I E F   I N   T H E 
P OT E N T I A L   O F   T H E   B U S I N E S S 
I S   U N D I M I N I S H E D."

The strength of our new venue pipeline 
and good overall returns of our new 
sites give us confidence in the brands and 
achieving further growth. Rob Pitcher’s 
operational and executional focus, the 
recently strengthened operations 
teams, and the good range of initiatives 
planned or being implemented means 
that our belief in the potential of the 
business is undiminished.

Keith Edelman
Chairman
2 October 2018

* 

 Restated – see Note 1(b) of the consolidated 
financial statements for an explanation and 
analysis of the prior period adjustments included 
in respect of the profit for the 52 weeks ended 
1 July 2017.

**   Like-for-like sales are defined as total retail sales 
from bars that have been trading continuously 
for at least 12 months.

***  Adjusted EBITDA excludes exceptional items, 
bar opening costs and share-based payments 
(see reconciliation table on page 22 of the 
Financial Review).

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

07

SOUTHAMPTON

CONVERSION OF TWO FORMER RETAIL UNITS INTO A REVOLUCIÓ N DE CUBA. 
OPENED SEPTEMBER 2018. TWO-FLOOR OPERATION COVERING 5,000 SQUARE FEET 
OF DRINKING AREA. INCLUDES AN EXTERNAL AREA. VENUE SITS IN THE TRADITIONAL 
ENTERTAINMENT CIRCUIT. 

£1.4 MILLION INVESTMENT.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

08

STRATEGIC REPORT
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S STATEMENT

WE CONTINUE TO INNOVATE  
OUR PRODUCT IN ORDER TO 
IMPROVE THE APPEAL OF OUR BRANDS

"

THERE IS SIGNIFICANT 
POTENTIAL AND PROMISE 
AS WELL AS A ROUTE BACK 
TO THE 18 CONSECUTIVE 
QUARTERS OF LIKE-FOR-
LIKE SALES GROWTH.**"

"

MY IMMEDIATE FOCUS IS 
TO RESTORE SALES AND 
PROFIT GROWTH TO OUR 
CORE TRADING ESTATE 
AS I BELIEVE THERE IS 
SIGNIFICANT OPPORTUNITY 
TO DELIVER THIS OVER THE 
COMING MONTHS."

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

09

Introduction
I joined the business six days before the end 
of the financial year with the last few months 
seeing significant activity while I looked into 
and reviewed every aspect of the business 
to properly understand the key challenges 
facing the Group. I deduced that the Group 
has two strong brands which can be 
operated significantly better and have been 
affected by the long period of uncertainty 
and major operational management change. 

At the end of August, we held a two-day 
conference enabling me to meet the 
management teams of all our sites. That, 
alongside the 50 sites I have visited so far, 
has confirmed that the Company’s vision 
and values are alive across the Group and 
our employees. The conference outlined 
my plans for refocusing the business on 
delivering for our customers, our teams, 
and our shareholders.

There is significant potential and promise 
as well as a route back to the 18 consecutive 
quarters of like-for-like sales growth** that 
ended in the second half. 

Our new openings are impressive and 
performing well and our development teams 
are creative in producing venues of great 
character and difference, standing them 
apart from the competition. 

My first report as CEO sets out my early 
thoughts on our strategy and our priorities 
for taking the business forward and 
returning to like-for-like sales growth**.

Our strategy:
 > building customer loyalty, ensuring 

all visits to our venues are an 
excellent experience;

 > driving continued profit improvement 

across our existing estate; and

 > expanding the footprint to new and 

profitable locations.

I believe a continuation of this strategy is 
the right approach. Historically, the Group’s 
brands have led their market segments, but 
sustained success is delivered by focusing 
on the detail of our customer proposition – 
something that has waned due to 
management distractions and operational 
management change. 

My immediate focus is to restore sales 
and profit growth to our core trading estate 
as I believe there is significant opportunity 
to deliver this over the coming months.

Within this, the Revolution customer 
proposition is the key focus area and work 
is underway to review all customer touch 
points to ensure that we are delivering a 
premium experience. The Revolución de 
Cuba customer proposition is much clearer 
and is continuing to deliver well; it is 
differentiated in its market place and has 
a stronger focus on food, and a slightly 
more mature and affluent customer profile.

Building customer loyalty 
Today’s market conditions require an 
even stronger focus on engaging with 
our customers. Digital developments 
and innovations will aid in unlocking this 
potential. We will deliver this in a number 
of ways:

 > We appointed a new and award-winning 
social media agency in Social Chain, 
having recognised our digital platforms 
have not kept pace with the rapid 
changes in customer behaviours. 
Email communication is now of limited 
benefit and shifting resources to 
social engagement will enable 
better communications with our 
target customer base. 

 > Feedback data has been too focused 
on a single channel, Trip Advisor, 
distorting our view of the customer 
experience. In mid-September, we 
launched Reputation.com across the 
business to provide a broader view 
of the Group’s online reputation by 
capturing all review websites and 
allowing on-site management to 
respond from one dashboard. A further 
benefit is that this provides local and 
national benchmarking against the 
top quartile of our sites, facilitating 
management focus on driving the 
business forward and truly delivering 
for the customer.

 > Our customers now expect a seamless 
digital journey, and we have developed 
an online table booking system 
planned for roll-out across the 
business pre-Christmas. This will 
allow customers to book a table in any 
of our bars and the system is integrated 
with and complements our central 
pre-booking systems.

 > Food delivery represents a significant 

opportunity, and we are looking to further 
develop our existing relationships with 
delivery partners to maximise revenue 
potential. We are also looking to 
develop click and collect capabilities 
via our website and social channels. 

 > Although our cocktail masterclasses 
remain as popular as ever and are 
a significant source of like-for-like 
growth**, that rate of growth has 
slowed. The events are synonymous 
with the brand and have become a 
real differentiator, providing a unique 
customer experience that is both 
fun and premium. With some of our 
competitors now offering similar 
experiences we have to identify new 
ways to innovate and add creativity to 
this important competitive socialising 
format. I am excited to see how the 
team further develops this offering.

 > We have invested additional resources 

in our central sales teams and corporate 
sales managers to provide further support 
and training to locally based sales 
teams. This is producing encouraging 
results with committed revenue for 
the vitally important Christmas trading 
period 20.3 per cent ahead of last year.

 > We are also working with a consultancy 
to further refine the Revolution brand 
proposition, ensuring we provide 
customers with the best premium 
bar experience on the high street. 
We expect to start trials on the 
recommendations in early 2019.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

10

STRATEGIC REPORT
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S STATEMENT CONTINUED

Since the end of the reporting period, 
we have opened Revolution Glasgow 
(Mitchell Street) and Revolución de Cuba 
in Southampton. Both are stunning 
developments with great potential. 
Three further openings are planned 
before the end of November, meaning 
the Group will trade from 79 venues. 

Our pipeline of new sites remains healthy 
and we have many exciting prospects 
including two sites that could open in the 
second half of the FY19. In the short term, 
we intend to take a slightly more cautious 
approach to new sites given that we 
believe our immediate priority and 
management focus must be to return 
our existing business to growth. This may 
also necessitate an increased focus on 
the refurbishment of the existing estate, 
particularly if our work on the customer 
proposition and late night entertainment 
identifies that remedial actions requiring 
capital investment are required in order 
to drive like-for-like growth**.

Employees and management teams
I would like to acknowledge the dedication 
and commitment demonstrated by our 
3,000-strong team. I have been impressed 
with the calibre of our people in our sites 
and the support centre and their 
commitment to our brands.

The last year has presented some 
extraordinary challenges that will have 
tested many of our teams; however, I am 
confident that their continuing hard work 
and support will yield improved performance 
in the near future. I would also like to thank 
all of our employees for their warm welcome 
when I joined the business and I am hugely 
looking forward to working with them in the 
coming years.

Rob Pitcher
Chief Executive Officer
2 October 2018

* 

 Restated – see Note 1(b) of the consolidated 
financial statements for an explanation and analysis 
of the prior period adjustments included in respect 
of the profit for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017.

**   Like-for-like sales are defined as total retail sales 
from bars that have been trading continuously 
for at least 12 months.

***  Adjusted EBITDA excludes exceptional items, 
bar opening costs and share-based payments 
(see reconciliation table on page 22 of the 
Financial Review).

Driving profit improvement from 
existing sites
Given the cost headwinds our sector has 
and continues to face – National Living 
Wage, Apprenticeship Levy, business rates 
and rent rises – this strategic pillar requires 
ever increasing rigour and creativity. 
Key priorities in the coming year are:

 > A renewed operational focus: I intend 
to be very “hands on” as this will best 
leverage my experience of managing 
other turnaround brands and enable 
me a faster understanding of how best 
to improve the quality of operational 
management. As a result, the role of 
Chief Operations Officer, vacated due 
to resignation earlier in the year, will not 
be replaced. Our Operations Directors 
will now report directly to me. We have 
also appointed a third Operations 
Director, having operated with only two 
for over six months, and employed a 
Property Director following resignation 
earlier in the year.

 > Refreshing the food offering: Our new 

food menu launched in Revolution bars 
in mid-September and is the biggest 
refresh of our food offer in recent years, 
representing a fundamental shift in both 
quality and presentation. The menu 
introduces a theatrical element, 
creating the fun and excitement that are 
integral to our brand ethos. Responding 
to customer trends, 40 per cent of the 
new menu is suitable for either vegan or 
vegetarian customers, an increasingly 
important factor for us given our young 
professional customer base. Following 
the success of a weekend brunch offer 
in a number of Revolución de Cuba 
sites, a similar offer will be introduced 
to Revolution in the coming months, 
creating a brand-new trading session 
for the Revolution brand.

 > I believe there is a significant opportunity 

to create value through the pricing 
models that we currently employ, and 
have instigated a review of our current 
pricing across the business. This will 
ensure we are optimising our margin 
while delivering increased value 
to our customers. 

 > Premiumisation and creativity of our 
drinks range, particularly cocktails, 
continues. We launch four new 
cocktail menus each year, the latest 
being the beginning of September. 
We collaborate closely with the brand 
owners of premium spirits who are keen 
to associate their products with our 
businesses and provide significant 
marketing support. They help us to 
innovate and allow us to see other 
offerings from around the world to 
aid in elevating our offering.

 > Re-establish our market-leading 

position for Friday and Saturday night 
entertainment. We researched what the 
best party nights look like and are in 
the process of trialing new initiatives at 
three sites. We have also appointed an 
established agency to provide a more 
consistent, improved and on-brand 
offer for live music and DJs. The early 
signs are encouraging.

 > Continued cost controls: As part 

of our cost reduction programme, 
we implemented labour scheduling 
software at the beginning of Q4 in FY18; 
however, engagement at venue level 
has been disappointing. In the coming 
months, we will be working hard to 
ensure that the benefits of the system 
are fully realised. During the period, 
average hourly wage rates increased by 
3.7 per cent due to statutory increases 
in the National Living and National 
Minimum Wage. A further 1.0 per cent 
increase in employer’s pension 
contributions applied from 1 April. 
The increase in total venue labour 
costs at like-for-like** sites was limited 
to 1.7 per cent due to improvements in 
deployment driving labour efficiencies.

 > Energy costs have been an important 
focus in recent months following the 
appointment of consultants. Their work 
has only just commenced; however, 
we are already seeing benefits through 
monitoring consumption on a daily 
basis and site surveys that identify 
fast paybacks from carefully 
focused investments in equipment 
replacement, LED lighting, and 
energy saving devices.

 > A new accounting system providing 

the business with far improved 
management information is being 
installed. This will be vital in 
highlighting further efficiency 
opportunities for the business. 

Expansion of our estate
Our property team is driving significant 
value through high quality site selection 
and property development. Innovation 
and creativity are key attributes of their 
work, and the team has the vision to 
take unique buildings with interesting 
but often challenging space, see the 
potential, and deliver inspiring backdrops 
for our brands which are very different 
to those of our competitors. A number 
of recent developments have roof top 
bars and/or retractable roofs, creating 
inside/outside areas.

During the reporting period, we opened 
six new venues, three Revolutions 
and three Revolución de Cuba sites. 

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

11

GL ASGOW

CONVERSION OF AN EXISTING LICENSED CLUB IN A PROMINENT LOCATION IN 
CENTRAL GLASGOW INTO A REVOLUTION. CLOSE BY THERE ARE MANY CASUAL 
DINING RESTAURANTS AND MAJOR WET LED OPERATORS. COVERING A TWO-FLOOR 
OPERATION. SIGNIFICANT REMODELLING TO THE CURRENT LAYOUT WAS 
REQUIRED CONVERTING AN EXISTING RETAIL UNIT ON THE GROUND FLOOR 
TO BE PART OF THE LICENSED DEMISE.

£1.9 MILLION INVESTMENT.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

12

STRATEGIC REPORT
OUR MARKETS

OUR MARKETS

The United Kingdom has over 330,000 
licensed premises with many different 
styles of operation; many operate as 
clubs and bars, many predominantly 
as restaurants and many as hotels.
The total pub and restaurant market is estimated as being 
worth £88 billion (source: MCA Eating Out Report 2017). The 
market is very competitive with relatively low barriers to entry 
and a multitude of brands.

Brands differentiate themselves through theming, quality 
of operation and customer focus.

Markets overview

Our market is evolving at a rapid pace due to a number 
of factors and is polarising between value operators and 
premium operators but in all cases a clear customer 
proposition and great service standards are critical 
for brand credibility and customer loyalty.

OUR RESPONSE TO MARKET TRENDS 

A focus on premium brands

Well invested estate

The Group’s brands seek to operate towards the top 
end of the market by offering premium products with 
a value-added focus through providing an extensive 
range of innovative cocktails and food presented and 
served with flair and style in a quality, modern, cool 
and fun environment.

GIN AND SUPER 
PREMIUM RUMS

ARE THE FASTEST GROWING CATEGORIES

£14. 2 MILLION CAPITAL 
EXPENDITURE IN THE PERIOD:

52+

2018 openings 

£7.4m

2019 openings 

Existing estate  

£2.4m

£4.4m

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

17
+
31
+
N
13

Increasing our digital footprint

Meeting customer demand

 > Digital marketing remains at the heart of the Revolution 
Bars Group marketing strategy. Whilst the focus remains 
on the communication strategy to our 1.1 million Facebook 
fans across Revolution and Revolución de Cuba, our 
Instagram following is growing at a pace and is now 
up to 77k Instagram users.

 > The Group has entered into a strategic partnership 
with a new social media agency in the summer of 
2018, Social Chain, which will provide further growth, 
engagement and reach to our key markets whilst 
supporting our local social media strategy.

 > Launch of the new Revolución de Cuba website in 
January supported a 32 per cent increase in traffic 
with 1.4 million visits.

 > Revolution website traffic was 3.6 million users 
(up +14 per cent); however, a new website will be 
launched in February 2019 to help support the booking 
strategy as well as providing our customers with an 
improved user journey and easier access to information 
surrounding Revolution.

Our locations
As at the date of this report we operate 76 bars across 
the UK under both the Revolution and Revolución de Cuba 
brands. Three more bars are planned to open by the end 
of November 2018. Our bars are situated in town and city 
centres with some large cities hosting multiple versions 
of the Revolution brand. There is, therefore, significant 
scope for expansion.

POTENTIAL 
FOR 150 SITES

WE BELIEVE THERE IS THE POTENTIAL 
TO GROW OUR ESTATE TO 150 BARS

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

14

STRATEGIC REPORT
OUR BUSINESS MODEL

OUR BUSINESS MODEL

Our business model is to maintain strong cash generation 
from our existing estate of bars and to invest the surplus cash 
generated through a carefully targeted roll-out of new bars for 
both the Revolución de Cuba and Revolution brands.

What we do
Revolution Bars Group plc is a leading 
operator of premium bars, with a strong 
national presence across the UK and 
significant growth opportunities. As at 
the date of this report we trade 76 bars 
with a further three bars scheduled to 
open by the end of November 2018. 
Our bars are located predominantly 
in town or city centre high streets.

Our operating brands
Two distinct and differently themed 
brands but with common delivery styles 

 > Tailored design and bespoke layouts 
in buildings of style and character

 > Outstanding customer service with 

an emphasis on fun

 > Premium quality products served in a 
style that exudes flair and innovation

1

2

3

Customer focus
Revolution’s primary customer focus is 
on 18–25 year olds who are looking for 
a fun and party atmosphere. During the 
daytime, the brand’s focus on food has 
a broader appeal.

Revolución de Cuba’s focus is on a slightly 
more mature and discerning customer.

The female customer is at the heart of 
our propositions and therefore we strive 
to ensure that our environments are 
clean, well maintained, safe and properly 
supervised and that our product offers 
and service quality are consistent with 
a premium operation.

A RECORD YEAR OF 
REVOLUTION LOYALTY 
CARD SALES

Skilled staff
The Group’s training and development 
activity ensures we maintain a strong 
pipeline of managers to lead and grow the 
business. A variety of development tools, 
maximising technology where appropriate 
and combined with our ACE Customer 
Service training programme, takes people 
from learning about our purpose, vision 
and values at induction through to 
mastering a range of brand standards 
that ensure quality and speed of service 
are a focus for all team members.

400 MEMBERS 
OF STAFF
ATTENDED THE 2018 
CONFERENCE

Premium products
The high value associated with our retail 
brands by our core customer groups drives 
significant levels of loyalty and frequency of 
visit. Our Revolution bars have been trading 
since 1996 and are a destination of choice 
for customers who value our innovative 
food and drinks menus based around 
premium branded products in a fun and 
entertaining environment. The success of 
our Revolución de Cuba brand is driven by 
the Cuban-inspired backdrop and theming 
offering innovative cocktails, food and live 
music to a wide range of customers. We do 
not lose sight of the fact that, above all else, 
most of our customers come to us for a good 
night out. What we are actually selling are 
good times and fun, happy experiences, the 
delivery of which requires us to get all facets 
of our operation and brand standards 
operating consistently at a premium level.

£230K +15%

Read more on Sustainability 
Page 26

Read more in our Financial 
Review Pages 20–24

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

OVER 120

NEW BESPOKE COCKTAILS 
ACROSS BOTH BRANDS

15

5

6

Compelling marketing 
The Group’s focus on a relatively young 
customer demographic requires leading-
edge communication and marketing. 
The Group has recently reviewed its 
agency partners and has contracted 
with Social Chain, which is one of the 
fastest growing and most well-respected 
marketing agencies in the UK, and which 
happens to be led by a former Revolution 
bartender. We have an exclusivity 
arrangement in place with Social Chain 
and are working with it to significantly 
improve the quality, style and innovation 
of our digital presence.

1.2M

SOCIAL MEDIA FOLLOWERS

Quality management
Our senior management team has 
experienced some significant challenges 
during the last year, which resulted in 
changes in personnel. The team has 
been strengthened substantially which 
leaves it well positioned to achieve some 
step changes in performance in the 
coming years.

MANAGEMENT TEAM 
POSITIONED FOR RETURN 
TO GROWTH

Read more about our Board 
Of Directors Pages 30 and 31

Read more about our Senior 
Management Pages 32 and 33

4

National estate 
We have a trading portfolio of 76 bars 
located predominantly in town or city 
centre high streets operating under the 
Revolution and Revolución de Cuba 
brands. We regularly review new bar 
opportunities against rigorous and 
proven investment criteria and believe 
that there is scope for 150 of our branded 
bars in the United Kingdom. The Group 
continues to develop a strong pipeline 
of new sites and expects to open at 
least five new sites each year.

6

BARS OPENED IN FY18

Read more about our new bars

Southampton, Revolución de Cuba 
Page 7

Glasgow, Revolution 
Page 11

Birmingham, Revolución de Cuba 
Page 17

Newcastle Revolución de Cuba 
Page 23

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

16

STRATEGIC REPORT
OUR STRATEGY

MAINTAIN STRONG CASH GENERATION FROM 
OUR EXISTING ESTATE OF BARS AND INVEST 
SURPLUS CASH THROUGH A CAREFULLY 
TARGETED ROLL-OUT OF NEW BARS

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

PROFIT IMPROVEMENT

ESTATE EXPANSION

Strategic objective

Strategic objective

Strategic objective

Provide our customers with an exceptional 
and premium drinks and food experience. 

Continued profit improvement 
from existing sites.

Opening new profitable sites in growth 
locations.

To build customer loyalty by providing a 
seamless digital customer experience.

Performance in 2018

Performance in 2018

Performance in 2018

 >  Pre-bookings for Christmas 20 per cent 

ahead of last year

 > Like-for-like pre-bookings for Christmas  

+ 14 per cent

 > Significant digital growth:

 > Facebook fans up 15 per cent

 > Website visits up 23 per cent

 > Gross margin improved by 10bps
 > Revenue from like-for-like venues down 

£0.6 million

 > Adjusted EBITDA £15.0m  

(FY17: £15.1 million)

 > Three new Revolución de Cuba bars 

opened

 >  Three new Revolution bars opened
 > Returns from new sites (opened more 
than 12 months) since IPO running at  
+28 per cent

 > Growth potential for both brands: 

 >  Revolution to 100 sites

 >   Revolución de Cuba to at least 50 sites

Future focus

Future focus

Future focus

 > Food and drink innovation 
 > Late-night entertainment offer and focus 

on fun and atmosphere
 > Quality customer service
 > Recognising email communication is a 

limited benefit; we are working with a new 
digital engagement partner, Social Chain
 > Data-driven strategy with a broad view on 
capturing more fully our online reputation

 > Targeted efficiencies, focusing on key 
cost lines including payroll and energy
 > Better targeting of discounts to improve 

gross margin

 > Leverage marketing support from major 

drink brand owners 

 > Two new bars opened already – 

Revolution Glasgow (Mitchell St) and 
Revolución de Cuba Southampton

 > Three further openings planned before end 

November 2018

 > Two good prospects for second half 
and strong pipeline building for 
subsequent years

KPIs 

The principal KPIs for the strategy outlined above are as follows:

> like-for-like sales**;

> number of units opened;

> adjusted EBITDA***; and

> gross margin.

**  Like-for-like sales are defined as total retail sales from bars that have traded continuously for at least 12 months. 

***  Adjusted EBITDA excludes exceptional items, non-recurring opening costs and share-based payments (see reconciliation table on page 22 of the 

Financial Review).

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

17

BIRMINGHAM

CONVERSION OF PROMINENT LOCATION IN CENTRAL BIRMINGHAM INTO 
A REVOLUCIÓ N DE CUBA. CLOSE TO CASUAL DINING RESTAURANTS AND 
MAJOR WET LED OPERATORS. OPENED MARCH 2018.

THE VENUE HOUSES A SIGNIFICANT TWO-FLOOR OPERATION. SIGNIFICANT 
REMODELLING OF THE BUILDING WAS REQUIRED INCLUDING CONVERTING AN 
EXISTING RETAIL UNIT ON THE GROUND FLOOR AND THE OLD LAW LIBRARY 
ON THE FIRST FLOOR.

CAPITAL INVESTMENT £1.4 MILLION.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

18

STRATEGIC REPORT
RISKS

PRINCIPAL RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES

We believe that the principal risks and uncertainties 
faced by the business are set-out in the table below. 
Occurrence of any of these risks or a combination of 
them may significantly impact the business or impair 
the achievement of our strategic goals.

Risk management framework

BOARD
Responsible for risk management

Audit  
Committee

Remuneration 
Committee

Non-executive Directors

Underlying cause of risk

Response and mitigation

Dependence on key sites

The Group operates throughout the UK and therefore has 
income sources from a geographically diverse estate. 
Notwithstanding that, certain sites deliver significantly more 
profit than others and overall profits are sensitive to this. A 
decline in profitability in a key site would have an adverse 
impact on Group profits and, in some cases, this could be 
material.

There are three mitigating actions to this risk: (i) operational 
managers are focused on the maintenance of operating profit 
of economically significant sites; (ii) these sites benefit from 
an annual refresh to ensure decor is maintained to the highest 
standards; and (iii) growing the size of the business through 
new sites reduces the Group’s exposure to the fortunes of 
individual sites. 

Acquisition of new sites

The Group’s strategy is based on growth through the 
acquisition of new sites. Market expectations rely on the 
Group sourcing and developing a number of suitable sites per 
annum. Failure to identify the sites or to develop them 
commercially would impact growth rates.

The development team has sufficient resources to ensure the 
investigation of all new site opportunities. A wide selection of 
property agents has also been briefed. Public company status 
and a relatively low level of third-party debt is attractive to 
potential landlords, enhancing the Group’s covenant.

Consumer demand

The eating-out and drinking-out markets are dependent on the 
consumer’s disposable income. Macroeconomic factors, such 
as employment levels, interest rates and consumer confidence, 
are important influences on disposable income. Declines in 
disposable income in the Group’s target market could adversely 
impact the levels of demand and, hence, profitability.

The Group retains the ability to tailor its offering in response to 
macroeconomic influences. Pricing, discounting, marketing and 
promotional activity can all be adjusted quickly if necessary. 
Furthermore, the Group’s proposition is not based solely on 
selling price. A more affluent demographic is targeted and, in so 
doing, there is some down-side protection against adverse 
macroeconomic factors impacting on disposable income. 

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

19

Underlying cause of risk

Response and mitigation

Discounting

The Group operates in a market that is sensitive to the 
balance between supply (licensed premises and related 
capacity) and demand (from consumers). Imbalances can lead 
to competitive discounting in local marketplaces and this can 
place pressure on the Group’s pricing structures. Should the 
Group feel compelled to respond through discounting, 
operating margins could be affected.

The risk of entering into a competitive discounting 
environment is mitigated by the fact that the appeal of the 
Group’s brands is not based solely on price. Environment, 
use of premium products, innovative serves and entertainment 
all combine to attract those customers looking for a good 
experience and therefore willing to pay more. Discounting 
risks are, at least in part, therefore mitigated. 

Health and safety

The Group’s venues are open to the public and the Group 
has a duty of care to look after its customers. Failure to do so 
through poor execution of operating policies and procedures 
could lead not only to financial loss but also to negative 
associations with the brands.

The Group’s policies and procedures manual covers all aspects 
of operations. Adherence to these is strictly enforced both 
through internal operational line management and through 
external third-party audits. Incidents are followed up and lessons 
are reflected in the manual, which is updated from time to time.

Leasehold rents

All of the Group’s operating sites are held on leases. Typically, 
the rents under these leases are determined on a five-yearly 
cycle by reference to open market rents prevailing at the time 
of the review. Most leases stipulate upward-only increases. 
Substantial increases in market rents may arise as a result 
of other events in the locality and agreements with other 
operators that are beyond the control of the Group. Thus rent 
reviews may impair the net profitability of the relevant site and 
damage returns.

Supplier concentration

The drinks distribution market is dominated by one 
significant business, Matthew Clark, which is the Group’s 
principal supplier. If Matthew Clark were to face business 
difficulties or otherwise change its arrangements or 
pricing, then the Group’s operations could be disrupted.

National Minimum/Living Wage

A significant proportion of venue-based staff are affected, 
directly or indirectly, by wage legislation. Recent years have 
seen rises above inflation imposed on the business and given 
the pronouncements of political parties, this looks set to 
continue. Increased wage rates could impair site profitability.

Market rents in each location are beyond the control of the 
Group. To mitigate this risk, the Group employs specialist rent 
review advisers, who deal only with tenant reviews, i.e. there 
is no conflict of interest. Some mitigation arises due to rent 
reviews being spread out geographically and in terms of their 
timing such that on average one-fifth of the estate reviews are 
concluded each year. This minimises the exposure to any rental 
market in any specific location or at any point in time.

The proposed strategy is to tolerate the risk, principally based on 
the Group’s assessment that Matthew Clark is the best supplier. 
Matthew Clark operates nationwide whereas other drink 
wholesalers do not. Prior to 2018, it had a long history and good 
service record with the Group and the Group is an important 
customer. Mitigation is derived from a four-year deal (to December 
2021) and through the Group’s principal commercial deals with 
brand owners and not being dependent on the identity of the 
distributor. The Group has in place a contingency plan, which was 
tested to the full earlier this year when Matthew Clark’s parent 
company entered into administration. For several weeks, the 
Group was supplied by an alternative supplier. Whilst this event 
was disruptive, there was no significant break in supply and the 
Group does not believe its sales were adversely impacted.

Wage rate increases can be mitigated by reductions in the 
number of hours worked. However, the Group’s customer 
proposition is dependent on high levels of service and 
therefore management is acutely aware that it should not 
cut hours in a way that impacts the customer. However, 
technology is being introduced to deploy staff more effectively 
and to streamline back office processes that will help mitigate 
wage increases. Also, to some extent small increases in selling 
prices may be possible to help cover increased costs.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

20

STRATEGIC REPORT
FINANCIAL REVIEW

FINANCIAL REVIEW

Reduction in EBITDA margin 
is predominantly the result of the reduction  
in like-for-like** sales whilst costs have increased significantly 
as a result of National Minimum Wage pay rates and higher 
overheads on both rent and particularly general rates.

Summary

>  Revenue for the period was £141.9 million (2017: £130.5 million), 

an 8.7 per cent increase compared with the prior period.

>  Revenue from like-for-like** venues decreased on the prior period 

by 0.6 per cent.

>  The underlying result, as measured by adjusted EBITDA***, 

was £15.0 million (2017: £15.1 million), a decrease of 0.4 per cent.

>  The Group incurred an operating loss of £3.0 million 

(2017 Restated*: profit £5.5 million) but this was after charging 
exceptional items of £11.1 million (2017 Restated*: £2.3 million).

* 

 Restated – see Note 1(b) of the consolidated financial statements for an explanation and analysis 
of the prior period adjustments included in respect of the profit for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017.

**   Like-for-like sales are defined as total retail sales from bars that have been trading continuously 

for at least 12 months.

***  Adjusted EBITDA excludes exceptional items, bar opening costs and share-based payments 

(see reconciliation table on page 22 of the Financial Review).

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Prior period adjustments
The financial statements include three 
prior period adjustments resulting in a 
restatement of financial statements for 
the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017. These 
adjustments relate to the methodology 
applied to undertake asset impairment 
reviews, the redesignation of a deferred 
tax credit as a prior period adjustment 
and recognition of the interest charge 
associated with a movement on the 
provision for onerous leases. These 
adjustments are detailed in the Note 1(b) 
to the financial statements. In aggregate, 
the effect of the prior period restatement 
is to reduce net assets at 2 July 2016 
by £4.5 million. The cumulative effect of 
the restatements is to reduce profit after 
tax for the period ended 1 July 2017 by 
£0.3 million and to reduce net assets as 
at 1 July 2017 by £4.8 million.

21

Revenue £m

£141.9m

.

9
1
4
1

.

5
0
3
1

.

5
9
1
1

.

8
1
1
1

.

7
8
0
1

Gross margin £m

£108.2m

.

2
8
0
1

.

4
9
9

.

0
0
9

.

6
4
8

.

5
1
8

Adjusted EBITDA*** £m

Adjusted PBT*** £m

£15.0m

.

0
5
1

.

1
5
1

.

6
4
1

.

4
3
1

.

2
3
1

£8.0m

.

4
9

.

0
8

9
7

.

3
8

.

4
7

.

18

17

16

15

14

18

17

16

15

14

18

17

16

15

14

18

17

16

15

14

Throughout this report, the 2017 
comparatives are described as “Restated” 
which means they are adjusted for prior 
period adjustments.

Results
Revenue for the period was £141.9 million 
(2017: £130.5 million), an 8.7 per cent 
increase compared with the prior period. 
The revenue increase comprised part-year 
contributions from six new sites opened 
during the period and the annualisation 
of six new sites opened in the prior period 
offset by lower sales from established 
sites. Revenue from like-for-like** venues 
decreased on the prior period by 
0.6 per cent. 

The Group incurred an operating loss 
of £3.0 million (2017 Restated*: profit 
£5.5 million) but this was after charging 
exceptional items of £11.1 million 
(2017 Restated*: £2.3 million).

The underlying result, as measured by 
adjusted EBITDA***, was £15.0 million 
(2017: £15.1 million), a decrease of 0.4 per 
cent. This reflects an adjusted EBITDA 
margin of 10.6 per cent of revenue 
compared with 11.6 per cent in the prior 
period (Restated*). The reduction in EBITDA 
margin is predominantly the result of the 
reduction in like-for-like** sales whilst 
costs have increased significantly as 
a result of minimum wage pay rates 
and higher overheads on both rent 
and particularly general rates following 
the first full period post the 2017 
rating revaluation. 

Year-on-year cost increases at venues 
opened pre-July 2017 included wages 
of +£0.6 million (up 1.9 per cent), rent 
of +£0.4 million (up 4.1 per cent) and 
general property rates of +£0.6 million 
(up 14.1 per cent). These cost increases 
were mitigated by improved gross margin 
(+0.2 percentage points) and savings 
in marketing (down £0.7 million) and 
insurance (down £0.2 million). 

The restatements of the key comparative measures for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017 
are set out below:

Statutory measures

Operating profit

Profit on ordinary activities before taxation

Profit and total comprehensive income for the period

Basic earnings per share (pence)

Non-GAAP measures

Adjusted EBITDA***

Adjusted operating profit***

Adjusted profit before tax***

Adjusted earnings per share (pence)***

As originally
published
£m

Restated *
£m

3.7

3.6

4.1

8.2

15.1

9.5

9.3

14.2

5.5

5.2

3.8

7.7

15.1

9.6

9.4

14.6

The table below shows how adjusted EBITDA*** has changed in the constituent parts 
of the estate.

Adjusted EBITDA***

Venues opened pre-July 2017

Venues opened in prior period

Venues opened in current period

Other non-like-for-like venue

Adjusted EBITDA from venues

Central support costs

Adjusted EBITDA 

Number 
of venues

61

6

6

1

74

2018
£m

20.7

1.3

0.8

(0.2)

22.6

(7.6)

15.0

2017 
Restated *
£m

21.7

0.8

—

(0.3)

22.2

(7.1)

15.1

"

SIX VENUES OPENED IN THE CURRENT 
PERIOD, ACHIEVING TOTAL REVENUE IN 
THE PERIOD OF £7.0M AND ADJUSTED 
EBITDA*** OF £0.8M WHICH EQUATES 
TO 11.4% OF REVENUE."

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

22

STRATEGIC REPORT
FINANCIAL REVIEW CONTINUED

Results continued
Of the six venues opened in the prior 
period, four Revolución de Cuba venues 
opened in the first half and two Revolutions 
opened towards the end of the second 
half. Five of these sites have performed 
to expectation but Revolution Torquay 
(opened May 2017) has fallen significantly 
short particularly during outside the tourist 
season and has dragged down the overall 
performance of investments in the prior 
financial period. A different strategy is to 
be adopted for this site including lowering 
the operating costs during the winter months 
and a different marketing approach to 
improve daytime trade. EBITDA conversion 
from this group of investments was 11.6 
per cent, significantly below the ultimate 
target of 20 per cent. Whilst profit conversion 
will continue to improve as these sites 
mature a turnaround of the Torquay 
performance will be crucial if this group is 
to achieve target.

Six venues opened in the current period: 
Revolución de Cuba in Belfast early in the 
period with three Revolutions in Solihull, 
Inverness and Putney opening just before 
Christmas at the end of the first half; two 
further Revolución de Cuba venues opened 
during the second half, in Birmingham just 
before Easter and in Newcastle-upon-Tyne 
just two days before the period end. These 
venues achieved total revenue in the period 
of £7.0 million and adjusted EBITDA*** 
of £0.8 million which equates to 11.4 per 
cent of revenue. The three Revolución de 
Cuba venues are large sites and all are 
trading strongly, and EBITDA conversion 
is expected to improve over an extended 
period consistent with earlier large 
Revolución de Cuba openings. The Board 
is confident that this group of sites will 

Reported pre-tax (loss)/profit

Exceptional items

Bar opening costs

(Credit)/charge arising from long-term incentive plans

Adjusted pre-tax profit

Add back finance costs

Add back depreciation

Adjusted EBITDA

achieve in excess of the targeted EBITDA 
conversion of 20 per cent.

Central costs represent 5.3 per cent 
revenue compared to 5.4 per cent in the 
prior period and equate to £103k per venue.

The Group reported a pre-tax loss for 
the period of £3.6 million (2017 Restated*: 
profit £5.2 million). The reported result 
for the period has been significantly 
impacted by exceptional items £11.1 million 
(2017 Restated*: £2.3 million), bar opening 
costs for new venues of £2.0 million 
(2017: £1.4 million) and a credit arising 
from long-term incentive plans of 
£1.5 million (2017: charge £0.5 million). 
The Board’s preferred profit measure 
is adjusted pre-tax profit, which excludes 
exceptional items, bar opening costs and 
credits/charges arising from long-term 
incentive plans, all of which can fluctuate 
significantly from year to year and serve to 
distract from the underlying performance of 
the business. On this basis, adjusted 
pre-tax profit was below the prior period 
at £8.0 million (2017 Restated*: £9.4 million).

"

R E V E N U E   F O R   T H E   P E R I O D   WAS   £ 1 4 1 . 9 M 
( 2 0 1 7 :   £ 1 3 0. 5 M ) ,   A N   8 .7 %   I N C R E AS E 
C O M PA R E D   W I T H   T H E   P R I O R   P E R I O D.   
T H E   R E V E N U E   I N C R E AS E   C O M P R I S E D 
PA RT- P E R I O D   C O N T R I B U T I O N S   F R O M   S I X 
N E W   S I T E S   O P E N E D   D U R I N G   T H E   P E R I O D 
A N D   T H E   A N N UA L I SAT I O N   O F   S I X   N E W 
S I T E S   O P E N E D   I N   T H E   P R I O R   P E R I O D 
O F F S E T   BY   LOW E R   SA L E S   F R O M 
E S TA B L I S H E D   S I T E S ."

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

2018
£m

(3.6)

11.1

2.0

(1.5)

8.0

0.5

6.5

15.0

2017
Restated *
£m

5.2

2.3

1.4

0.5

9.4

0.3

5.4

15.1

Exceptional items and bar opening 
costs and accounting for long-term 
incentive plans
Exceptional items, by virtue of their size, 
incidence or nature, are disclosed separately 
in order to allow a better understanding of 
the underlying trading performance of the 
Group. Costs of £11.1 million (2017 Restated*: 
£2.3 million) were associated with the 
takeover and merger approaches received 
from the Stonegate Pub Company Limited 
and the Deltic Group Limited during the first 
half of the reporting period, the resignations 
of the Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) 
and Chief Operating Officer (“COO”) and 
the recruitment of a replacement CEO, 
additional resourcing to support the review 
of accounting policies, a fixed assets 
impairment charge and an increase in 
the provision for onerous leases. A full 
analysis of the costs associated with 
each of these items together with 
the items charged in the comparative 
period is given in Note 3 to the financial 
statements. £7.8 million of the exceptional 
costs are non-cash items (2017: £1.9 million).

Bar opening costs refer to costs incurred 
in getting new sites fully operational and 
primarily include costs incurred before 
opening and in preparing for the launch. 
The most significant element of these 
costs relates to property overheads 
incurred between signing the lease and 
opening for trading. Whilst six venues 
were opened in the reporting period, 
the total charge also includes £0.6 million 
in respect of the five venues opening in 
the first half of the subsequent reporting 
period (all by mid-November 2018). 
Two of these sites have been subject 
to significant delay since the leases were 
signed and have contributed significantly 
to these extra costs: Revolution Glasgow, 
which opened towards the end of August 
2018, was delayed by several months due 
to issues obtaining the building warrant 
and Bristol has been delayed by a licensing 
issue but will open in October 2018.

NEWCASTLE

CONVERSION OF TWO OLD BARS/CLUBS INTO A REVOLUCIÓN DE CUBA 
IN THE HEART OF NEWCASTLE CITY CENTRE. OPENED JULY 2018.

A FANTASTIC THREE-FLOOR OPERATION WITH A ROOFTOP TERRACE.

THIS PROPERTY IS SITUATED PROMINENTLY BETWEEN GREY STREET AND 
COLLINGWOOD STREET WHICH MEANS WE CAN ATTRACT EXCELLENT DAY 
AND NIGHT-TIME TRADE. 

THE CAPITAL INVESTMENT TOTALLED £1.8 MILLION.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

(Loss)/earnings per share
Basic (loss)/earnings per share for the 
period was (5.7) pence (2017 Restated*: 
7.7 pence). Adjusting for exceptional 
items, non-recurring opening costs and 
(credits)/charges arising from long-term 
incentive plans results in an adjusted 
earnings per share for the period of 
13.0 pence (2017 Restated*: 14.6 pence). 

Dividend
The Board has recommended a final 
dividend of 3.3 pence per share 
(2017: 3.3 pence per share), which is to 
be proposed at the Company’s AGM on 
26 November 2018. 

Mike Foster
Chief Financial Officer
2 October 2018

* 

 Restated – see Note 1(b) of the consolidated 
financial statements for an explanation and 
analysis of the prior period adjustments included 
in respect of the profit for the 52 weeks ended 
1 July 2017.

**   Like-for-like sales are defined as total retail 
sales from bars that have been trading 
continuously for at least 12 months.

***  Adjusted EBITDA excludes exceptional items, 
bar opening costs and share-based payments 
(see reconciliation table on page 22 of the 
Financial Review).

24

STRATEGIC REPORT
FINANCIAL REVIEW CONTINUED

Exceptional items and bar opening 
costs and accounting for long-term 
incentive plans continued
(Credit)/charge arising from long-term 
incentive plans resulted from the 
resignation of the CEO and COO, both 
of whom received significant share option 
awards at the time of the initial public 
offering (“IPO”) in March 2015. A number 
of other senior managers in receipt of 
significant awards at the time of the 
IPO also resigned during the period. 
The cumulative charges made in earlier 
reporting periods in respect of these 
individuals were reversed on their 
resignations. This is also a non-cash item.

The Board believes that the performance 
measures, adjusted EBITDA***, adjusted 
operating profit*** and adjusted pre-tax 
profit***, give a clearer indication of the 
underlying performance of the business 
as they exclude exceptional items, bar 
opening costs that are a function of the 
timing of the new venue development 
program rather than the underlying trade 
and charges relating to long-term 
incentive schemes which tend to reflect 
changes in the management team rather 
than being a measure of performance.

Finance costs
Finance costs of £0.55 million (2017: 
£0.3 million) relate to borrowings under 
the Group’s committed revolving credit 
facility and also include commitment fees 
relating to any undrawn element of the 
facility, the amortisation of arrangement 
fees over the life of the facility and 
interest on the movement in the onerous 
lease provision. The Group has a 
revolving credit facility of £25 million 
that is committed to December 2021. The 
facility provides flexibility in managing the 
timing of capital investments so that good 
opportunities are not foregone and also 
provides headroom against unforeseen 
short-term trading issues. At the end 
of the period, loans of £15.5 million 
(2017: £7.5 million) were outstanding 
on the revolving credit facility.

Taxation
The current period shows a tax credit 
of £0.7 million (2017 Restated*: charge 
£1.4 million) due mainly to tax relief arising 
from exceptional items and high levels of 
capital investment supporting capital 
allowance claims in excess of depreciation. 
Corporation tax on profits in the current 
period is a credit of £0.5 million (2017 
Restated*: charge £0.9 million) and a net 
deferred tax credit of £0.2 million arising 
from timing differences (2017 Restated*: 
charge £0.5 million).

Capital expenditure and returns 
on invested capital
The Group invested £14.2 million (2017: 
£12.9 million) in total during the period 
of which £9.8 million (2017: £8.6 million) 
related to new venues and £3.8 million 
(2017: £3.7 million) related to developing and 
maintaining the existing estate. A further 
£0.6 million was spent on computers 
and IT related items (2017: £0.5 million). 
£2.4 million of the expenditure on new 
venues related to venues that will open 
in the months following the end of the 
reporting period – Revolution Glasgow 
(August 2018), Revolución de Cuba 
Southampton (September 2018) and 
Revolución de Cuba Bristol (October 2018). 
The latter venue included a lease premium 
that was paid earlier in 2018. The comparable 
position at the end of the 2017 reporting 
period was spend of £1.5 million in respect 
of 2018 openings.

The six venues opened in the prior 
period generated adjusted EBITDA*** 
in the current period of £1.3 million. 
The capital development cost for these 
six venues was £7.1 million producing 
a return on capital of 18 per cent during 
the current reporting period (adjusted 
EBITDA*** divided by capital cost). 
As indicated in the results section, the 
performance of this group of investments 
is being held back by one significantly 
underperforming venue. Six venues 
opened in the current period at a cost 
of £8.8 million. These venues are trading 
well and expected to achieve an overall 
return of at least 30 per cent at maturity.

Operating cash flow and net debt
The Group generated net cash flow 
from operating activities in the period 
of £10.2 million, £0.6 million more than 
in the prior period (2017 Restated*: 
£9.6 million). This was mainly attributable to 
lower corporation tax payments £0.6 million 
(2017: £1.1 million). Capital investments 
of £14.3 million (2017: £12.8 million), 
dividends £2.5 million (2017: £2.5 million) 
and interest £0.5 million (2017: £0.2 million) 
resulted in a net cash outflow in the 
period of £7.1 million (2017 Restated*: 
£5.9 million) and opening net debt of 
£4.4 million moving to a closing net debt 
position of £11.5 million. Net cash outflow 
for 2017 was restated due to customer 
credit and debit card transactions that 
have not yet cleared the bank account at 
period end but relate to sales within the 
reporting period which have historically 
been treated as cash and cash equivalents 
in the statement of financial position and 
cash flow statement. These amounts are 
now reported as receivables rather than 
cash and cash equivalents. 

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

STRATEGIC REPORT
CORPORATE AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT

25

THE GROUP’S ACTIVITIES PRIORITISE 
OUR PEOPLE, RESPONSIBLE 
RETAILING AND CHARITY

People
The Group employs around 3,200 people 
and, through its proven growth strategy, 
is committed to creating rewarding 
careers for our teams. In order to 
support the retention of our teams, our 
development activity focuses on creating 
career paths from every department within 
the business. Our talent development 
activity ensures that we maintain a strong 
pipeline of managers to lead and grow the 
business. This is evidenced by a detailed 
succession plan and talent management 
programme, enabling us to fill circa 
70 per cent of our management positions 
internally. Our training utilises a variety 
of development tools, maximising 
technology where appropriate. We 
combine our e learning platform, ACE 
On line and customer service training 
programme to provide training to all our 
employees from day one. These tools take 
people from learning about our purpose, 
vision and values at induction through 
to mastering a range of brand standards 
that ensure quality and speed of service 
are a focus for all team members.

Our talent attraction strategy ensures 
that we provide a compelling reason for 
experienced hospitality team members 
to join the Group. During the last year 
two highly experienced senior operations 
managers have joined the business from 
other organisations within the sector. 
The balance of developing internal talent 
with a strong attraction strategy for 
experienced individuals from outside the 
Group is helping to broaden the skills and 
knowledge base of the teams.

For those wishing to progress, our career 
development path is clearly outlined in My 
Career Portfolio (“MCP”), taking ambitious 
team members from first-line supervisor 
roles to general manager and area 
manager positions. Twice a year, we 
recruit new talent to our Academy 
programme, selected through an 
assessment centre selection process; 

we ensure that the top talent joins our 
next cohort of future managers and 
induct them at a two-day development 
centre, followed up by pairing them 
with a dedicated mentor and regular 
reviews with their general manager. 
All management groups within the 
operations team have their own dedicated 
annual conference. The purpose of 
these conferences is to set the direction 
for the year to come, create a strong 
network amongst peers and ensure that 
the purpose, vision and values of the 
business are embedded into the actions 
taken on the back of the events. 

Using a blend of in-house and third-party 
provision, the Group ran around 110 days 
of classroom-based management 
development training courses during FY18, 
providing access to full-day training courses 
to over 1,500 people. This was supplemented 
by e-learning programmes. The Group is 
committed to equal opportunities and the 
elimination of discrimination, harassment 
and victimisation of employees. Of our 
workforce, 44 per cent are female and 
56 per cent are male. 

In addition to competitive pay rates, there 
is a suite of reward and incentive schemes, 
investing around one per cent of turnover 
annually. Further, all employees are able 
to join the Group’s stakeholder pension 
plan, as well as obtain tax-efficient childcare 
vouchers. All team members are entitled 
to a 50 per cent discount on food and 
drink purchased within our bars. An employee 
assistance programme is provided to all 
managers to assist them with issues that 
might be impacting their wellbeing. 

The Group’s performance as an employer 
is measured twice yearly through our internal 
“Quality of Life” survey. The surveys have 
been linked with our customer feedback 
platform, in order to identify ways to not 
only improve employee engagement but 
to provide a direct link to how this can 
enhance the customer experience. 

Responsible drinks retailing
The Group supports practices which 
promote responsible drinking and has 
established its own “Responsible Alcohol 
Retailing Policy”, supported by staff training 
and monitoring. The Group’s pricing models 
are set so as to avoid deeply discounting 
products. Events are promoted responsibly 
and are accompanied by individual risk 
assessments. A number of bars enter 
local “Best Bar None” schemes (run by 
local authorities and the police to encourage 
good behaviour in town centres), promoting 
a safe and secure environment.

Food information and quality
The Group continuously aims to improve 
the quality of its food offering and provide 
customers with the required information 
about its products to allow them to make 
informed decisions about their food 
consumption. This includes providing 
allergen and calorie information for all 
dishes via our website. Products not 
containing gluten or meat are advertised 
on the printed menu. Full training is 
provided to bar teams to enable them 
to deal with customer queries and prevent 
cross-contamination. The Group sets out 
strict specifications for all products so 
that high standards of quality are met.

The new food menu launched in 
Revolution bars in September 2018 
contains a significant number of dishes 
appropriate for vegetarians, vegans and 
those with other food intolerances, in 
order to appeal to this increasing market 
trend, which resonates with a significant 
proportion of our customer base.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

26

STRATEGIC REPORT
CORPORATE AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT CONTINUED

Charity
Early in 2018, the Group decided that, as 
part of its social responsibility agenda, 
it should support a nominated charity. 
In direct response to feedback from a 
significant number of our employees, 
Shelter, the housing and homelessness 
charity, was selected and the Group has 
formally committed to raise £100,000 
on behalf of the charity in the year. Our 
employees told us that homelessness was 
a matter of serious concern to them given 
the frequency with which they encounter 
those who are homeless on their way home 
when they leave our venues late at night. 
Most of the funds committed will be raised 
by our employees undertaking 
sponsored events.

The Group also has a programme designed 
to promote other charitable activity within 
its workforce. The scheme, called “You 
raise it, we match it”, rewards funds raised 
by staff for other charities and matches 
what they have raised. 

Environment
The Group endeavours to conduct its 
business in a way that is sympathetic 
to the environment. Where possible, 
glassware and bottles are recycled as is 
cardboard packaging. All new sites and 
major refurbishment projects include 
fitting energy-efficient lighting and other 
control devices in order to minimise 
energy consumption. Smart meters have 
been fitted throughout our estate to allow 
monitoring of consumption on a daily basis. 
During the year, the Group appointed 
Energise as its energy consultants to 
work with the Group on all aspects of 
minimising energy consumption and 
the cost of energy. 

Greenhouse gas emissions 
We report Scope 1 and 2 emissions defined by the Greenhouse Gas Protocol as follows:

 > Scope 1 (direct emissions): combustion of fuel and operation of facilities; and

 > Scope 2 (indirect emissions): combustion purchased electricity, heat or steam.

Greenhouse gas emissions data
The reporting of greenhouse gas emissions is for the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018 to 
mirror our financial reporting period. Reporting follows the requirements of the 
Companies Act 2006 (Strategic Report and Directors’ Report) Regulations 2013 and 
uses conversion factors published by DEFRA.

Emission type:

Scope 1: operation of facilities

Scope 1: combustion

Total Scope 1 emissions

Scope 2: Purchased Energy

Total Scope 2 emissions

Total emissions

Greenhouse gas emissions intensity ratio

Revenue (£m) – calendar year

Scope and methodology 
 > This includes emissions under Scope 1 

and 2, except where stated, but 
excludes any emissions from Scope 3. 

 > We exclude fugitive emissions from our 
operation of facilities reported number 
due to the availability of records.

 > This report is based upon 
location-based factors.

Anti-bribery and corruption policy
The Group has in place an anti-bribery and 
corruption policy that has been approved 
by the Board and communicated through 
all heads of department and their teams. 
The policy requires transparency and the 
maintenance of an entertainment register 
that is regularly reviewed by the Board. 
Key suppliers have also been made aware 
of the policy.

2017–18 
CO2e tonnes

—

1,836

1,836

10,303

10,303

12,139

85.5 t/£m

141.9

Anti-slavery policy and human rights
The Group has in place an anti-slavery 
policy that has been approved by the 
Board. Suppliers are required to 
acknowledge the Group’s policy and 
their obligation to adhere to it as 
part of any contractual arrangements.

The Group does not have a formal 
human rights policy but it is committed 
to conducting business with integrity 
and fairness.

On behalf of the Board

Mike Foster
Company Secretary
2 October 2018

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

27

CONFERENCE 2018

IN AUGUST 2018, 400 MEMBERS OF THE OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT AND 
SUPPORT TEAMS WERE BROUGHT TOGETHER. THEY WERE JOINED BY SUPPLIERS 
WHO WANTED TO BE A PART OF SOMETHING SPECIAL. THE PURPOSE OF 
THE CONFERENCE WAS TO RECOGNISE THE SUCCESSES, INVOLVE PEOPLE 
IN UNDERSTANDING THE GROUP’S AMBITION AND PLAN HOW TO GET THERE 
WITH FUN ALONG THE WAY.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

28

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
INTRODUCTION TO GOVERNANCE

THE GROUP IS COMMITTED TO HIGH 
STANDARDS IN CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Keith Edelman
Chairman

Introduction from the Chairman
This is the Company’s fourth Governance Report.

The Board recognises the importance of, and is committed to, high standards of corporate governance, and all Directors are fully 
aware of their duties and responsibilities under the UK Corporate Governance Code 2016 (the “Code”), the Disclosure Guidance 
and Transparency Rules (“DTRs”) and the Listing Rules. 

Compliance with the Code
Apart from the matters described below, the Board considers that the Group has complied with the requirements of the Code 
throughout its existence and through to the end of the reporting period. The Board is aware of the 2018 revisions to the UK Corporate 
Governance Code applicable from 1 January 2019 and is already planning to ensure full compliance from that date.

Code provision

Area

Explanation

A.2.1

C.3.1

Separation of roles of 
Chairman and CEO

During the period Mark McQuater left the business. During the search for his successor, 
Keith Edelman, the Chairman exercised the role of “Interim Executive Chairman”. 
Rob Pitcher was appointed CEO in June 2018 and from that point the roles of Chairman 
and CEO were separated.

Composition of Audit 
Committee

Keith Edelman serves as Chairman of the Audit Committee and during his tenure as 
“Interim Executive Chairman” in the year could not be considered independent. With 
the appointment of Rob Pitcher in June 2018 Keith is considered independent once again.

The Group continues to implement a 
robust governance structure to ensure 
compliance with the Code. The following 
are some key highlights:

 > The Board comprises a majority of 

independent Non-executive Directors, 
of which there are three including me 
as Non-executive Chairman (deemed 
independent on appointment), and two 
Executive Directors. However, following 
the resignation of the Chief Executive 
Officer (“CEO”) in October 2017 and 
because of the small size of the 
Executive Board, I became Executive 
Chairman so as to be fully involved in 
the day-to-day running of the business, 
including the recruitment of a 
replacement CEO, until Rob Pitcher 
joined the Group in June 2018. 

Therefore, during the period between 
17 October 2017 and 25 June 2018, 
the Board did not comprise a majority 
of independent Directors, having 
two Executive Directors and two 
Non-executive Directors, but in the 
circumstances the Board judged that 
my stepping up to the role of Executive 
Chairman for a short-term period was 
in the best interests of the Group and 
its stakeholders.

 > Each Non-executive Director has 
a proven track record in business 
at a high level and has expertise 
of relevance to the Company.

 > The Board and its Committee structure, as 
required for a listed company, have been 
implemented. The Audit Committee is 

required to fully comprise Non-executive 
Directors but I continued to be an active 
member of the Committee during the 
period when I was Executive Chairman 
and therefore the Group was not in 
compliance with this element of the 
Code during the period 17 October 2017 
to 25 June 2018, during which time the 
Audit Committee met 3 times. The 
Non-executive Directors have provided 
critical challenge and support to the 
areas of the Group which they believe 
are of particular importance.

 > We review regularly, and implement 
as necessary, any developments in 
corporate governance best practice 
and seek to apply them appropriately.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
29

REVOLUTION BARS GROUP PLC BOARD 

Chairman: Keith Edelman
Chief Executive Officer: Rob Pitcher 
Chief Financial Officer: Mike Foster
Senior independent Non-executive Director: Michael Shallow
Independent Non-executive Director: Jemima Bird

Audit Committee

Remuneration Committee

Chairman: Michael Shallow
Keith Edelman
Jemima Bird

Chairman: Michael Shallow
Keith Edelman
Jemima Bird

Nomination Committee

Chairman: Keith Edelman
Jemima Bird
Michael Shallow
Rob Pitcher

Michael Shallow, who was appointed 
just prior to the Company’s listing on the 
London Stock Exchange in March 2015, 
serves as senior independent Non-executive 
Director and Chair of the Remuneration, 
Nomination and Audit Committees. 
Michael has advised the Board that he 
intends not to seek re-election at the 
forthcoming AGM and will stand down 
from the Board on that date. Jemima Bird 
will become senior Non-executive 
director from the date of the AGM. 
A search is underway for an additional 
Non-executive Director.

Each Director was selected to bring 
the range of public company, commercial 
and industry skills required to drive the 
Group forward. Additionally, the Board 
takes appropriate advice on governance 
matters from external advisers.

The remuneration policy for both 
Executive and Non-executive Directors 
is set out within the Remuneration Report 
which starts on page 38. 

The Group has the principles of transparency 
and openness at the heart of its culture 
and is committed to high standards 

in corporate governance. The Board firmly 
believes that corporate governance 
structures and robust processes will help 
the business to perform in a more efficient 
and competitive way in the marketplace 
and will lead to strong relationships with 
all stakeholders.

Keith Edelman
Chairman
2 October 2018

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

30

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS

STRONG AND EXPERIENCED LEADERSHIP

The Board currently comprises a Non-executive Chairman, two Executive Directors and two other Non-executive Directors.

Keith Edelman 
Non-executive Chairman

Rob Pitcher 
Chief Executive Officer

Mike Foster
Chief Financial Officer

Appointment date: 
16 February 2015

Appointment date: 
25 June 2018

Board Committees:
Audit; Remuneration; Nomination (Chair).

Board Committees:
Nomination.

Appointment date: 
2 June 2017

Board Committees:
None.

Relevant past experience: 
Keith has served on the boards of public 
companies for over 29 years across a wide 
range of businesses and markets, with extensive 
experience in the retail sector. Keith’s previous 
executive roles include being managing director 
of Arsenal Holdings plc from 2000 to 2008 
and chief executive officer of Storehouse plc 
(encompassing BHS and Mothercare) from 1993 
to 1999. Keith has a BSc in management studies 
from the University of Manchester (Institute of 
Science and Technology).

Relevant past experience: 
Rob has over 25 years’ experience within the 
hospitality sector, most recently as divisional 
director restaurants at Mitchells & Butlers 
responsible for the Harvester, Toby Carvery and 
Stonehouse brands. Prior to joining M&B, Rob 
has held senior positions at many other leading 
hospitality companies including: Bramwell, 
Stonegate, Town & City, Laurel, Spirit and 
Scottish & Newcastle Retail.

Relevant past experience: 
Mike is a Chartered Accountant with extensive 
corporate finance and hands-on financial and 
commercial management experience gained 
in senior positions at large multi-site retail and 
leisure businesses, including over 20 years at 
major pub and bar companies. Most recently, 
he was chief financial officer of iNTERTAIN Ltd 
from 2009 until December 2016 when that 
company was sold to Stonegate Pub Company 
Limited. Prior to that, he was chief financial 
officer of Regent Inns plc from 2005 and held 
a number of senior accounting roles at Spirit 
Group (formerly with Scottish & Newcastle Retail), 
Esporta plc and First Leisure Corporation plc.

Other appointments: 
He is currently non-executive chairman of 
Pennpetroenergy Plc, a non-executive director 
of Headlam Plc and a non-executive director 
(and chairman of the audit committee) of the 
London Legacy Development Corporation.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

31

Skills directly relevant to our business

Leisure
77 per cent of our Board and senior 
management have experience in 
leisure businesses.

31%

77%

77+
31+
69+

69%

Marketing
31 per cent of our Board and senior 
management have experience in 
marketing businesses.

Operational
69 per cent of our Board and senior 
management have experience in 
operational businesses.

Mark McQuater, who held the position 
of Chief Executive Officer at the beginning 
of the period, resigned from the Board on 
17 October 2017.

Michael Shallow
Independent  
Non-executive Director

Appointment date: 
16 February 2015

Jemima Bird
Independent  
Non-executive Director

Appointment date: 
19 December 2016

Board Committees:
Audit (Chair); Remuneration (Chair); Nomination.

Board Committees:
Audit; Remuneration; Nomination.

Relevant past experience: 
Michael has performed a variety of roles in UK 
public companies, including finance director of 
pub group Greene King plc from 1991 to 2005, 
non-executive director (and audit committee 
chairman) of Britvic plc from 2005 to 2014 and 
non-executive director (and audit committee 
chairman) of Spice plc (now EnServe Group Ltd) 
from 2006 to 2010. He was also a non-executive 
director, member of the remuneration and 
nomination committees, and chairman of the 
audit committee of Domino’s Pizza Group plc. 
Michael has a degree in natural sciences and 
engineering from Trinity College, Cambridge.

Relevant past experience: 
Jemima is a marketeer with more than 20 years’ 
experience in many of the UK’s leading high 
street brands. She formed Jbird consultancy in 
2013. She is currently working with the 
Co-operative Group, which she rejoined in 
January 2016 as customer director having 
worked there previously in various branding and 
marketing roles from 1996 to 2008. Between 
2010 and 2015, Jemima held board positions at 
Moss Bros plc, Tragus, the restaurant operator, 
and Musgrave Retail Partners (Budgens and 
Londis).

Michael, who was appointed just prior to the 
Company’s listing on the London Stock 
Exchange in March 2015 has advised the Board 
that he intends not to seek re-election at the 
forthcoming AGM and will stand down from the 
Board on that date. Jemima Bird will become 
senior Non-executive director from the date of 
the AGM. A search is underway for an additional 
Non-executive Director.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

31
+
z
69
+
z
23
+
z
32

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
SENIOR MANAGEMENT

EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE

In addition to the Executive Directors, the following senior managers are considered relevant to establishing 
the appropriate expertise and experience for the management of the business.

Alex Stanhope 
Group Property Director

Kate Eastwood 
Sales and Marketing Director

Alex joined the business in August 2018 as Group Property 
Director. Prior to this Alex was the property director at the 
Deltic Group. During his career Alex has held a number of 
property-related roles starting in private practice for the likes 
of CBRE, with more recent client-side roles at Holland & Barrett 
as group head of estates and Halfords PLC. Alex has a degree 
in real estate management and is a member of the RICS. 
He is responsible for managing all aspects of the Property 
and Development function, from the acquisition and fit-out 
of new sites to the ongoing maintenance and refurbishment 
programme and all other estate matters.

Myles Doran
Commercial Director

Myles joined the Group as a consultant in June 2013 and became 
a permanent employee in December 2013. Prior to joining the 
Group, Myles was head of sales and marketing at Barracuda 
Group and prior to that held a number of roles at First Leisure 
Corporation plc, including marketing manager and brand 
manager, spending 11 years with each business. 

Myles was promoted from Trading Director to Commercial 
Director in January 2017. Myles is responsible for procurement, 
drinks retail strategy, reward and recognition programmes and 
commercial supplier agreements and relationships.

Simon Dobson
Food Director

Simon joined the business in January 2018. Simon was 
previously Managing Director of Delaware North in the UK 
managing the food operation for very large contracts such as 
Wembley stadium, Arsenal Emirates stadium and several premier 
racecourses. He has worked for over 20 years in food and 
customer experience. 

Clinton Ghent
Operations Director – Revolución de Cuba

Clinton joined the business in 2008 as a general manager after 
beginning his career with Fat Cat Café Bars. He has been 
responsible for the development and delivery of the brand and 
operational elements of Revolución de Cuba since its inception 
in 2011, and has overseen the opening of 16 trading sites, with 
a further three in development.

Kate initially joined the business as a catering consultant 
in June 2013, becoming the Group’s Director of Business 
Development in October 2013, with a remit including food 
management, advance sales and customer insight. Kate was 
promoted to Sales Director in May 2017 and then to Sales 
and Marketing Director in January 2018. 

Her career began at Whitbread plc in the commercial drinks 
operations of Beefeater and Brewers Fayre. She moved to 
the Laurel Pub Company, creating and heading the food 
development, supply chain and buying team there. Kate then 
worked as Roadchef’s retail catering director, before moving 
back into the licensed trade and heading the food team and, 
subsequently the pre-booked sales team at Barracuda. Kate 
has a degree in international management with hospitality from 
the University of Brighton.

Fiona Regan 
People Development Director

Fiona joined the business in April 2015 as People Development 
Director. Prior to this Fiona was HR director for five years at 
Grosvenor Casinos, a division of Rank Group. During her career 
she has held a number of HR roles starting in financial services 
then moving to the civil service before her time at Rank Group, 
where she was part of a team leading the acquisition of Gala 
Casinos in 2013. Fiona has a degree in business studies and 
human resource management and is a Fellow of the CIPD. 

Andy Dyson
Operations Director – Revolution North

Andy joined the business in 1998, having graduated from Leeds 
University, where he studied civil engineering (BEng (Hons)). He 
has worked in a number of operational roles within the group, 
including bar management and area management. Andy was 
promoted to Regional Operations Manager in 2013 and to 
Operations Director – Revolution North in 2018.

Mark Walter
Operations Director – Revolution South

Mark joined the business in September 2018 from Mitchells & 
Butlers, where he had been operations manager for three years. 
Mark has spent his career in hospitality running late-night 
venues, pubs and bars. Prior to joining Mitchells & Butlers, Mark 
was an area manager for Laurel and Stonegate Pub Company.

The business address of each senior manager is 21 Old Street, Ashton-under-Lyne, Tameside OL6 6LA. 

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
VIABILITY STATEMENT

33

In accordance with provision C.2.2 of 
the 2014 UK Corporate Governance Code, 
the Board has assessed the prospects 
for the Group over a period of three 
years from the date of approval of the 
financial statements. 

The Board believes that a three-year 
period is appropriate as such period aligns 
with the Group’s strategic planning 
process. The latest three-year plan was 
formally reviewed by the Board in May 
2018 and, as a consequence of feedback 
and amendments to certain elements of it, 
was updated in June 2018. The three-year 
plan covers the period to the end of June 
2021. The plan provided the basis for:

1. 

2. 

3. 

4. 

 setting the detailed budget for the 
52 weeks ending 29 June 2019;

 understanding the likely performance 
levels based on different patterns of 
like-for-like sales growth, estate 
expansion and cost pressures;

 stress-testing compliance with quarterly 
banking covenant tests; and

 understanding the Group’s long-term 
funding requirements.

The Group’s three-year plan is built up in 
financial quarters in a robust spreadsheet 
model developed for the purpose over 
the last 12 months. The model uses 
up-to-date trading data comprising 
segments for the like-for-like mature 
estate, immature venues (those opened 
within the current financial year and the 
previous financial year), committed future 
openings and other projected openings. 
This information is then overlaid with 
a series of assumptions in respect of 
like-for-like sales growth, returns from 
expansionary capital expenditure, cost 
increases including rent reviews and 
general rate increases, and cost-saving 
initiatives as well as available market data 
and trend analysis on matters such as 
economic outlook, inflation forecasts and 
other government-imposed costs such as 
National Minimum Wage and Living Wage, 

property rates revaluations, Apprenticeship 
Levy, and changes in excise duties and 
other tax rates. The three-year plan model 
comprises a fully integrated profit and 
loss account, balance sheet and cash 
flow statement. The model also includes 
financial covenant tests consistent with 
the Group’s banking facilities and allows 
for scenario analysis to stress-test 
the banking covenants.

The Group has a £25 million revolving credit 
facility committed to 31 December 2021. 
The facility provides liquidity to cover 
normal monthly and seasonal cash 
outflows, a safety net for the business 
to ride out short-term downturns in 
trade, and potentially to facilitate an 
acceleration of expansion plans if good 
site acquisition opportunities are 
identified in excess of the Company’s 
stated target of a minimum of five new 
sites per annum. The Group has opened 
six new sites in each of the last two 
financial years and will open a further 
five new sites in the first half of the new 
financial period. A number of these new 
sites have been in large cities requiring 
larger than average footprints and at 
higher cost. This accelerated rate of 
investment together with the one-off 
exceptional costs relating to corporate 
activity and Executive Director changes 
has seen utilisation of the facility over the 
last two financial periods increase from 
£0.5 million to £15.5 million with a further 
increase to £19.0 million as at the date 
of signing the financial statements. 

The Group continues to be very cash 
generative pre-expansionary capital 
expenditure, has ample headroom on 
its facility to cover working capital and 
seasonal cash flow needs and can 
potentially cover a significant reduction 
in trading performance relative to recent 
levels. The acceleration of capital 
investment has coincided with a number 
of events that have adversely impacted 
trading performance and therefore the 
Board has recently agreed with its bank 

some revisions to facility covenants that 
will provide a greater level of tolerance 
over existing test levels. The Board is also 
mindful that controlling the rate of capital 
investment is a principal driver of the 
Group’s debt levels and, as such, given 
current trade trends intends, temporarily, to 
adopt a more cautious approach to the rate 
of expansion whilst the new Chief Executive 
Officer focuses on consolidating and 
improving underlying trading performance 
of the business. 

As detailed on pages 18 and 19, the Board 
has conducted a robust assessment of the 
principal risks facing the Company. This 
includes consideration of strategic risks, 
economic and market risks, operational 
and people risks, regulatory risks and 
financial risks. The resilience of the Group 
to the impact of these risks has been 
assessed by applying significant but 
plausible sensitivities to the cash flow 
projections based on past experience. 
This includes modelling the effect of 
reduced consumer confidence and 
spending, a failure to maintain and 
develop compelling customer offers 
and the impact of increased regulation. 

Taking account of the Group’s current 
position, the principal risks to normal 
levels of trading and the potential 
mitigating actions that the Company 
would take in response to a downturn in 
trade, and the experience that the Group 
has in adapting the business to change, 
the Board has a reasonable expectation 
that the Company will be able to continue 
in operation and meet its liabilities as 
they fall due over the three-year period 
of assessment.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

34

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORT

Board composition

1

2

 Executive Directors

  Independent Non-executive Directors40+

 Non-executive Directors

2

that will help achieve this long-term 
success and deliver shareholder value. 
The Board oversees those matters that it 
regards as critical to the success of the 
Group including strategy, financial policy, 
maintaining a sound system of internal 
control, senior appointments and 
corporate governance. The Board’s main 
responsibilities are included in a schedule 
of matters reserved for the Board, as set 
out below:

 > agreeing the Group’s strategy 

and objectives;

Overview
This report sets out the Group’s 
governance structure and how it complies 
with the UK Corporate Governance Code 
2016 (the “Code”), published in April 2016 
by the Financial Reporting Council, and 
also includes items required by the 
Disclosure Guidance and Transparency 
Rules (“DTRs”). The Code is available on 
the Financial Reporting Council website 
at www.frc.org.uk. The Code sets out 
standards of good practice in relation 
to Board leadership and effectiveness, 
accountability, remuneration and relations 
with shareholders.

The disclosures in this report relate to 
our responsibilities for preparing the 
annual report and accounts, including 
compliance with the Code to the extent 
required, our report on the effectiveness 
of the Group’s risk management and 
internal control systems and the 
functioning of our Committees.

The Directors consider that the Group 
has complied with those provisions of the 
Code applicable to a company of its size, 
other than in terms of Board composition 
during the period between 17 October 2017 
and 24 June 2018 when Keith Edelman, 
who started and ended the financial 
reporting period as Non-executive 
Chairman, became Executive Chairman 
following the resignation of the Group’s 
Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”).

Compliance with the Code: 
Board composition
Michael Shallow served as “senior” 
independent Director throughout the 
reporting period to lead meetings of 
Non-executive Directors, to appraise the 
Chairman’s performance and to provide 
a sounding board for the Chairman and 

to serve as an intermediary to the other 
Directors when necessary.

 > changing the structure and capital 

of the Group;

Michael Shallow has also been and 
is available to shareholders up to 
26 November if they have concerns with 
contact through the normal channels of 
Chairman, Chief Executive Officer or other 
Executive Directors where their issues 
have failed to be resolved or for which 
such contact is inappropriate. Michael has 
advised the Board that he intends not to 
seek re-election at the forthcoming AGM 
and will stand down from the Board on 
that date. Jemima Bird will become senior 
Non-executive director from the date of 
the AGM. A search is underway for an 
additional Non-executive Director.

Compliance with the Code
In considering compliance with the 
provisions of the Code, the Board has 
undertaken an evaluation of its own 
performance, Committees, individual 
Directors who served during the period 
to 30 June 2018 and Chairman. The 
Chairman has confirmed to shareholders 
in the Notice of AGM that he and the 
Board believe that the performance of 
each Director, both Executive and 
Non-executive, and the Board 
Committees continues to be effective and 
demonstrates commitment to the relevant 
responsibilities.

Board governance
The Board is appointed by shareholders, 
who are the owners of the Group. The 
Board’s principal responsibility is to act in 
the best interests of shareholders as a 
whole, within the legal framework of the 
Companies Act 2006. It is also collectively 
responsible to shareholders for the long-term 
success of the Group and it agrees the 
strategic direction and governance structure 

 > approving the annual budget;

 > approving the annual report 
and accounts, and interim 
financial statements;

 > approving the Group’s dividend policy 

and declaration of dividends;

 > approving the Group’s treasury policy;

 > reviewing the effectiveness of 

the Board;

 > reviewing the effectiveness of risk 
identification and management and 
internal controls;

 > approving significant expenditure 

commitments and material transactions 
and contracts;

 > ensuring a satisfactory dialogue with 

the Group’s shareholders;

 > appointing and removing Directors 
and other members of the senior 
management team;

 > determining the remuneration policy 

and adjustments to the remuneration for 
Executive and Non-executive Directors;

 > reviewing the Group’s overall corporate 

governance arrangements;

 > delegating authority to the 
Chief Executive Officer;

 > setting annual objectives for the business 
in line with the current Group strategy; 

 > monitoring performance of the Group’s 

objectives through Board reports, 
which include updates from the Chief 
Executive Officer, the Chief Financial 
Officer and other functional heads of 
key departments; and

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

40
+
20
+
I
35

 > considering and continually updating 
a rolling agenda of items that includes 
any current issues or matters as 
they arise.

The Board has an ongoing process 
for identifying, evaluating and managing 
the principal risks facing the Company, 
including those that would threaten its 
business model, future performance, 
solvency or liquidity. This process has 
been in place for the year under review 
and up to the date of approval of the 
annual report and accounts although 
during the year the Board decided that 
the establishment of a Risk Committee 
would enhance the quality and 
robustness of its risk management 
process. The principal risks are regularly 
reviewed by the Board. A description of 
these risks together with an assessment 
of how they are being managed or 
mitigated, is included on pages 18 and 19.

Last year’s report noted that the Group’s 
risk management and internal control 
systems had not operated to the high 
standard expected and that it would 
remain a significant focus for the Board 
in the immediate future. Steps were taken 
at the time that were largely reactive in 
order to provide appropriate resources 
to deal with the most immediate issues 
regarding financial reporting and 
forecasting and to deal with two 
approaches regarding possible offers 
for the Group, one of which was 
subsequently put to a shareholder 
vote and rejected.

Since that time and, as a result of the 
Board’s review of the effectiveness of the 
Group’s risk management and internal 
control systems, a number of initiatives 
have been undertaken including:

 > the recruitment of additional qualified 
and more relevant skilled resource 
in finance and the recruitment of 
a qualified corporate secretary 
to provide more support around 
corporate governance matters;

 > provision of training for financial staff 
that rewards examination success 
encourages formal qualification;

 > implementation of a new finance 
system that provides significantly 

improved accountability throughout 
the business; 

 > implementation of a labour rota 

system that provides much greater 
control over local forecasting and 
labour resources; and 

 > establishment of a Risk Committee 

under the chair of the Chief Financial 
Officer that meets quarterly to formally 
identify, review and propose actions to 
improve the management of key risks 
across all areas of the business and to 
hold individuals to account. A key focus 
of the Risk Committee relates to health 
and safety and minimising exposure 
to cash losses but its remit extends to 
the identification and management of 
any risk faced or potentially faced by 
the business.

It is pleasing to note that contingency 
arrangements in relation to one of the 
principal risks relating to supplier 
concentration had to be invoked as a 
result of the financial failure in March 2018 
of Conviviality, the parent company of the 
Group’s principal supplier Matthew Clark. 
This was a major issue for many Matthew 
Clark customers but we were able to 
activate alternative supply arrangements, 
as planned, such that whilst this was 
a significant management distraction, 
there was negligible impact to our 
customer offer.

As noted above, the Board has delegated 
certain responsibilities to Committees 
to assist it with discharging its duties 
regarding key risks. The Committees play 
an essential role in supporting the Board 
to implement its strategy and provide 
focused oversight of key aspects of the 
business. Minutes and action points 
arising from Committee meetings are 
always circulated to and reviewed at 
Board meetings. The full terms of 
reference for each Committee are 
available on the Group’s website, 
www.revolutionbarsgroup.com.

Board balance and independence
The Code recommends that a group 
outside the FTSE 350 (such as the Group) 
should have at least two independent 
non-executive directors, being individuals 
determined by the Board to be independent 
in character and judgement and free from 

relationships or circumstances which may 
affect, or could appear to affect, the 
directors’ judgement. It also recommends 
that a non-FTSE 350 group’s remuneration 
and audit committees should comprise at 
least two independent non-executive 
directors, and that its nomination 
committee should comprise a majority 
of independent non-executive directors. 
The Group has complied fully with these 
recommendations throughout the 
reporting period, notwithstanding.

Chairman and Chief 
Executive Officer
The Group has established a clear division 
between the respective responsibilities of 
the Non-executive Chairman of the Board 
and the Chief Executive Officer. However, 
following the resignation of the CEO on 
17 October 2017 and given the turmoil in 
the business created by the two approaches 
to acquire or merge with the business and 
the aftermath of the shareholder vote 
to reject an offer, the Board agreed that 
shareholder interests would be best 
served in the short term by Keith Edelman 
temporarily relinquishing his role as 
Non-executive Chairman and becoming 
Executive Chairman. This decision recognised 
the need for strong leadership of the Group 
and also the critical and time-consuming 
activity of recruiting the right individual 
to succeed as the Group’s new CEO. 
Keith Edelman fulfilled the role of 
Executive Chairman from 17 October 2017 
to 24 June 2018. Keith Edelman was 
Non-executive Chairman at both the 
beginning and end of the reporting period 
under review. Keith Edelman is responsible 
for the effective operation, leadership 
and governance of the Board, leading the 
Board’s discussions and its decision 
making. The Chairman promotes a culture 
of openness and debate by facilitating the 
effective contribution of Non-executive 
Directors in particular and ensuring 
constructive relations between Executive 
and Non-executive Directors. The Chief 
Executive Officer is Rob Pitcher, who, 
through delegation from the Board, 
is responsible for leading the Group’s 
business organisation and performance and 
the day-to-day management of the Group.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

36

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORT CONTINUED

Chairman and Chief 
Executive Officer continued
This separation of responsibilities 
between the Chairman and the Chief 
Executive Officer, coupled with the 
schedule of reserved matters, ensures 
that no individual has unfettered powers 
of decision making. The Board is 
committed to the highest standards 
of corporate governance. The Board 
comprises a Non-executive Chairman, 
two Executive Directors and two other 
Non-executive Directors.

Non-executive Directors 
and independence
The independence of each Non-executive 
Director was considered at the time of their 
appointment. The Group’s Non-executive 
Directors provide a broad range of skills 
and experience to the Board which 
assists both in their roles in formulating 
the Group’s strategy and in providing 
constructive challenge to the Executive 
Directors. The Group considers that 
Keith Edelman, Michael Shallow and 
Jemima Bird were independent at the 
time of their appointments and continue 
to be independent for the purposes of 
the Code.

Board meetings
The Board’s intention is to meet at 
least eight times per year for structured 
Board meetings covering all aspects 
of the business. During the 52 weeks to 
30 June 2018 the Board met 15 times, of 
which nine were full structured meetings 
and the balance were mostly necessitated 
by the approaches received regarding 
possible offers for the Group.

The attendance record of each of the Directors at meetings of the Board and the 
Committees of the Board is set out below:

Board

Audit

Remuneration

Nomination

Total number of meetings

Keith Edelman

Mark McQuater1

Mike Foster

Michael Shallow

Jemima Bird

15

15

8

15

15

15

5

5

—

5

5

5

4

4

—

2

4

4

1

1

—

1

1

1

1.   Mark McQuater resigned from the Board on 17 October 2017 and remains on garden leave until 

16 October 2018.

Agendas and papers for each Board 
meeting are sent out in advance. The 
papers include business reports and 
updates from the Chief Executive Officer 
and the Chief Financial Officer. Members 
of the Group’s senior management team 
are also invited to present at Board meetings 
on a regular basis, as appropriate, so that 
Non-executive Directors keep abreast 
of developments in the Group.

Appointment and tenure
The Board believes that all Directors 
are effective, are committed to their 
roles and have sufficient time available 
to perform their duties. Accordingly, all 
members of the Board will be offering 
themselves for election at the Group’s 
AGM to be held on Monday 26 November 
2018. All of the Directors have service 
agreements or letters of appointment and 
the details of their terms are set out in the 
Directors’ Remuneration Report. The 
service agreements and letters of 
appointment are available for inspection 
at the Group’s registered office during 
normal business hours.

No other contract with the Company 
or any subsidiary undertaking of the 
Company in which any Director was 
materially interested subsisted during 
or at the end of the financial period.

Evaluation and effectiveness
Evaluations of the performance of the 
Board, its Committees, individual Directors 
and the Chairman have taken place during 
the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018. The 
conclusion from these evaluations is that 
the Board is operating effectively and 
in the best interests of shareholders. 

In addition, the Chairman continues to 
meet with the Non-executive Directors 
at least once a year without the Executive 
Directors present to discuss Board 
balance, monitor the powers of individual 
Executive Directors and raise any issues 
between themselves as appropriate. 
The changes made to the composition 
of the Board during the year, including 
the short-term change in role for the 
Chairman, moving from a Non-executive 
office to an Executive office, were 
a result of such a meeting of the 
Non-executive Directors.

Development
In line with the Code, the Group will 
ensure that any new Directors joining 
the Board will receive appropriate 
support and are given a comprehensive, 
formal and tailored induction programme 
organised through the Company 
Secretary, including the provision of 
background material on the Group, 
briefings with senior management and 
accompanied operational visits. Each 
Director’s individual experience and 
background will be taken into account 
in developing a programme tailored to 
his or her own requirements. Any new 
Director will also be expected to meet 
with major shareholders if required. This 
process has been implemented. 

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

37

Auditor
Towards the end of the current year 
external audit, and therefore after the end 
of the reporting period, the Committee 
reviewed the effectiveness of the audit. 

Annual general meeting
The annual general meeting (“AGM”) of the 
Group will take place on 26 November 2018. 
All shareholders have the opportunity to 
attend and vote, in person or by proxy, 
at the AGM. The Notice of AGM can be 
found in a circular which is being posted 
at the same time as this annual report and 
accounts. The Notice of AGM sets out the 
business of the meeting and explanatory 
notes on all resolutions. Separate 
resolutions are proposed in respect of 
each substantive issue. The Chairman, the 
Chairman of each of the Committees and 
both Executive Directors will be present 
at the AGM and will be available to answer 
shareholders’ questions.

Remuneration Committee Report
This report is set out on pages 38 to 53. 
The report provides details of the 
remuneration policy for the Company’s 
Directors, describes how the remuneration 
policy is implemented and discloses the 
amounts paid to Directors during the 
52 weeks ended 30 June 2018.

Mike Foster
Chief Financial Officer 
and Company Secretary
2 October 2018 

Directors’ conflicts of interest
Directors have a statutory duty to avoid 
situations in which they have or may 
have interests that conflict with those 
of the Group, unless that conflict is first 
authorised by the Board. This includes 
potential conflicts that may arise when 
a Director takes up a position with 
another company. The Company’s 
Articles of Association allow the Board 
to authorise such potential conflicts, and 
there is a procedure in place to deal with 
any actual or potential conflict of interest. 
The Board deals with each appointment 
on its individual merit and takes into 
consideration all the circumstances. 
All potential conflicts approved by the 
Board are recorded in a conflicts of 
interest register, which will be reviewed 
by the Board on a regular basis to ensure 
that the procedure is working effectively.

External directorships
The service agreements of the Executive 
Directors do not permit them to accept 
external commercial non-executive director 
appointments. Where Non-executive 
Directors have external directorships, 
the Board is comfortable that these do 
not impact on the time that any Director 
devotes to the Group and we believe 
that this experience only enhances the 
capability of the Board.

Information and support available 
to Directors
All Board Directors have access to the 
Company Secretary, who advises them 
on governance matters. The Chairman 
and the Company Secretary work together 
to ensure that Board papers are clear, 
accurate, delivered in a timely manner 
to Directors, and of sufficient quality to 
enable the Board to discharge its duties. 
Specific business-related presentations 
are given by senior management when 
appropriate. As well as the support 
of the Company Secretary, there is a 
procedure in place for any Director to take 
independent professional advice at the 
Group’s expense in the furtherance of 
their duties, where considered necessary.

Shareholder engagement
Responsibility for shareholder relations 
rests with the Chairman, the Chief 
Executive Officer and the Chief Financial 
Officer. They ensure that there is effective 
communication with shareholders on 
matters such as governance and strategy, 
and are responsible for ensuring that the 
Board understands the views of major 
shareholders. The Board aims to present 
a balanced and clear view of the Group 
in communications with shareholders 
and believes that being transparent in 
describing how we see the market and 
the prospects for the business is 
extremely important.

The Board communicates with 
shareholders in a number of different 
ways. The full and half-year reporting is 
followed by presentations and investor 
meetings in locations where we have 
institutional shareholders. We also 
regularly meet with existing and prospective 
shareholders to update them on our latest 
performance or to introduce them to the 
Group. Periodically, we arrange visits to 
the business sites to give analysts and 
major shareholders a better understanding 
of how we manage our business. These 
visits and meetings are principally 
undertaken by the Chief Executive Officer 
and the Chief Financial Officer, although 
other senior management are present 
from time to time. Any relevant material 
resulting from such meetings is uploaded 
to the Group’s website so that it is 
available to all shareholders. The Board 
receives regular updates on the views of 
its shareholders from the Chief Executive 
Officer, the Chief Financial Officer and 
Company brokers, which are a feature 
of each Board meeting.

The Group’s corporate website is 
also regularly updated with news and 
information, including this annual report 
and accounts, which sets out our strategy 
and performance together with our plans 
for future growth.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

38

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
REMUNERATION REPORT
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 2018

PROMOTING A STRONG AND  
SUSTAINABLE PERFORMANCE CULTURE

Michael Shallow 
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee

Dear shareholder
I am pleased to present, on behalf of the 
Board, the Remuneration Report of the 
Remuneration Committee. 

The Group’s remuneration policy aims 
to promote a strong and sustainable 
performance culture, to incentivise 
high growth and to align the interests 
of Executive Directors and other senior 
managers with those of shareholders. 
In promoting these objectives, the policy 
has been structured so as to adhere to the 
principles of good corporate governance 
and appropriate risk management.

In determining remuneration levels, the 
Committee has taken account of market 
conditions, the performance of the Group 
and its responsibility to shareholders.

Performance and reward in relation 
to the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018
Whilst the Group continued to make good 
progress on the opening of new venues 
to expand its footprint, the severe weather 
conditions in March and the extended 
spell of high temperatures throughout 
May and June 2018 adversely impacted 
like-for-like sales in the second half of 
the year. The challenges in the Finance 
function, which were well documented 
in last year’s annual report, and the 
approaches made to the Group by two 
potential offerors culminating in a formal 
offer from Stonegate Pub Company 
Limited, and following the rejection of 
that offer the immediate resignation of 
the Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”), were 
disruptive events that clearly impacted 
management focus and business results. 
Consequently, performance under 
adjusted EBITDA and adjusted profit 
before tax bonus targets was below the 

threshold level and as such no bonuses 
are payable to any of the Executive 
Directors or senior management team. 

Given the underperformance of the 
business, the Committee decided that it 
was not appropriate to undertake salary 
reviews in July 2018 for the Executive 
Directors or the majority of the senior 
management team, although certain 
individuals’ salaries were reviewed during 
the course of the year to increase 
alignment with benchmark rates for their 
roles, particularly where this included 
expanded responsibilities. 

The first tranche of awards granted on 
IPO was due to vest based on performance 
to 30 June 2018. On his resignation, the 
majority of Mark McQuater’s outstanding 
LTIP awards lapsed in full, although a 
minority of the first tranche, amounting 
to 29,159 shares, vested during the 
period. The vesting calculation was 
performed by Mercers and reflected the 
performance conditions and full time pro 
rating. No other Executive Directors held 
any LTIP awards that were eligible to vest 
during the year.

Changes to the Board during the year
As stated above, Mark McQuater resigned 
from the Board effective 17 October 2017. 
Mark was placed on garden leave from 
that date and, under the terms of his 
service contract, will continue to receive 
salary, benefits and pension payments 
over his 12-month notice period. 

Rob Pitcher was appointed as his 
successor and joined the Board as CEO 
on 25 June 2018. His salary was set on 
appointment at £350,000, taking into 
account his experience, the market rate 
for this role at similar companies and the 
salary of his predecessor. Benefits and 

pension contributions are provided in line 
with the remuneration policy as described 
on the following pages. Rob Pitcher is 
eligible for a maximum annual bonus of 
100 per cent of salary and a long-term 
incentive award of 300 per cent of salary 
that will be allocated in two parts, the first 
part equivalent to 200 per cent salary 
shortly after the preliminary announcement 
of the 2018 results and the second part 
equivalent to 100 per cent salary shortly 
after the preliminary announcement of 
the 2019 results. 

In order to ensure a smooth transition, 
and to minimise disruption to the day-to-
day operations of the business, during 
the period between the resignation of 
Mark McQuater and appointment of 
Rob Pitcher, Keith Edelman took up the 
position of Executive Chairman. The 
Committee approved supplementary 
remuneration to account for the additional 
responsibilities and time commitment, 
increasing his annual fee to £330,750 
over the period in question. His fee 
reverted to its previous level of £90,000 
on resumption of his former role. 

Revised remuneration policy 
and its application in the 2019 
financial year
As described on the following pages, 
we are submitting a revised remuneration 
policy for approval at the 2018 AGM. The 
Committee reviewed the policy during 
the year and concluded that it remains 
appropriate and fit for purpose, and as 
such no material changes to the policy 
are proposed. 

Executive Directors will continue to 
receive salary, benefits and pension 
payments as defined in the policy. Both 
will be eligible for a bonus payment of 

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

39

 > the remuneration package for Rob Pitcher 
who joined as the Group’s new CEO on 
25 June 2018; and

 > awards under the Long Term Incentive 
Plan (“LTIP”) to Mike Foster and new 
members of the senior management 
team as well as small top-ups to other 
members of the senior management 
team to ensure comparability between 
team members. 

Mercer was engaged on 1 July 2017 
to provide advice to the Committee 
in relation to the vesting of LTIP awards 
in connection with the proposed offer 
for the Group and Aon was engaged 
to provide support on the accounting 
calculations in respect of LTIP awards 
and other matters 

Shareholder feedback
The Committee welcomes any feedback 
on this report and the remuneration policy 
in general. On behalf of the Board, I would 
like to thank shareholders for their continued 
support and I look forward to your approval 
of our report at the 2018 AGM.

Michael Shallow
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee
2 October 2018

up to 100 per cent of salary, contingent 
on the satisfaction of stretching EBITDA, 
PBT and personal performance targets 
as in prior years. 

The CEO will receive an LTIP award 
in the coming year with a face value of  
200 per cent of salary. This award will 
vest after a three-year performance period, 
based on EPS and TSR performance 
targets. A further award with a face value 
of 100 per cent of salary is to be issued 
after the preliminary announcement in 
2019. Awards made in 2018 and thereafter 
will also be subject to appropriate recovery 
and withholding provisions, in line with 
best practice.

Committee activities
The Committee met four times during the 
year. As well as the routine matters set 
aside for the Committee, as set out under 
Directors’ remuneration policy on page 40, 
its primary business was to consider 
and agree:

 > whether outstanding awards under the 
Long Term Incentive Plan would vest 
contingent upon the Board recommended 
offer for the Group from Stonegate;

 > the terms of the severance package 

offered to Mark McQuater who resigned 
from the business on 17 October 2017 
following shareholders’ vote to reject 
Stonegate’s offer for the business; 

 > an adjustment to the remuneration 
for Keith Edelman who temporarily 
relinquished his role as Non-executive 
Chairman to become Executive 
Chairman until a replacement CEO 
was able to commence employment; 

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

40

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 2018

Directors’ remuneration policy
This part of the Directors’ Remuneration Report sets out the remuneration policy for the Company and has been prepared 
in accordance with the Companies Act 2006, Schedule 8 of the Large and Medium-sized Companies and Groups (Accounts 
and Reports) Regulations 2008 (as amended) and the UKLA’s Listing Rules. The policy has been developed taking into account 
the principles of the UK Corporate Governance Code 2016 and the voting guidelines of UK institutional investors.

The Group’s remuneration policy was put to a formal and binding vote at the 2015 AGM shortly after the Group’s listing on the 
London Stock Exchange. As set out at that time, the policy was expected to continue to apply for a minimum of three years until 
30 June 2018. 

We are, therefore, submitting the remuneration policy as presented on the following pages for approval through a binding vote at the 
2018 AGM. The Committee is satisfied that the policy continues to provide an appropriate framework for Executive remuneration and 
as such no material changes are proposed. This revised policy, if approved, is intended to apply from 1 July 2018 for a period of three 
financial years. As in previous years, the Annual Report on Remuneration will be put to an advisory vote at the 2018 AGM.

The Committee’s key objectives relate to the determination of specific remuneration packages for each of the Executive Directors 
and certain Senior Executives of the Group, including pension rights and any compensation payments, recommending and 
monitoring the level and structure of remuneration for senior management and the implementation of share schemes and any 
other performance-related schemes. The Remuneration Committee meets at least twice a year.

The Committee reviews the remuneration policy and, in particular, performance-related pay scheme structures on an annual basis to 
ensure that they continue to operate within the agreed risk framework of the Group. The Committee also ensures that an effective 
system of control and risk management is in place with regards to remuneration, which includes access to the Audit Committee 
to discuss matters of operational and financial risk. The Committee is satisfied that the proposed policy does not encourage or 
reward undue risk taking.

The Committee ensures that performance-related pay structures will not raise environmental, social or governance (“ESG”) risks 
by inadvertently motivating irresponsible behaviour. More generally, with regard to the overall remuneration structure, there 
is no restriction on the Committee that prevents it from taking into account corporate governance on ESG matters.

The policy, in relation to subsequent years, will be kept under review to ensure that it reflects any changing circumstances.

Remuneration for Executive Directors
The main component parts of the remuneration policy for Directors, as approved by shareholders, are detailed in the table below.

Policy table

Element

Operation

Opportunity

Performance metrics

Base salary

To attract and retain 
key individuals.

To reflect the 
relevant skills 
and experience 
in the role.

Salaries will normally be reviewed 
annually taking into account 
performance, experience, 
responsibilities, relevant market 
information and the level of 
workforce pay increases.

Executive Directors’ current 
salaries are set out in the Annual 
Report on Remuneration.

Annual increases will usually be 
commensurate with those of the 
wider workforce.

A broad-based assessment 
of individual and Company 
performance is considered 
as part of any salary review.

Further increases may be considered 
if there are significant changes in 
responsibility or scope of the role, 
sustained increase in the size of the 
business, or if there are significant 
movements in market rates.

New joiners, where pay is initially 
set below market levels, may 
benefit from larger increases 
as their salary is progressed 
towards the market rate based 
on their development in the role.

Pension

To provide 
cost-effective, 
yet market-
competitive, 
retirement 
benefits.

Contribution to a personal 
pension arrangement or cash 
in lieu of pension by way of a 
salary supplement.

Not applicable.

Set at market-competitive levels 
for Executive Directors. The 
maximum contribution will be 
up to 15 per cent of salary.

Only basic annual salary is 
pensionable.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

41

Element

Operation

Opportunity

Performance metrics

Not applicable.

Not applicable.

Car and fuel allowance for 
Executive Directors, private health 
insurance and life insurance cover.

Other benefits may be offered  
(e.g. relocation) where considered 
appropriate.

Benefits

To provide 
benefits that assist 
Directors in the 
performance of 
their roles and are 
designed to be 
competitive and 
cost effective.

Annual bonus plan

To motivate 
Executive 
Directors and 
incentivise the 
achievement of 
key financial and 
strategic goals and 
targets over the 
financial year.

Based on the achievement of 
performance metrics measured at 
Group level.

Maximum bonus potential is 
100 per cent of salary for the 
Executive Directors.

Bonus is paid wholly in cash.

Recovery provisions allowing the 
Company to claw back bonus 
payments under certain 
circumstances. The recovery 
period in respect of each bonus 
will be three years from the date 
the bonus is paid.

The Remuneration Committee 
retains discretion to withhold or 
reduce a bonus even if the 
objectives have been met.

Performance Share Plan (“PSP”)

Nominal cost options (“NCO”) are 
share awards which vest, subject 
to performance, after three years.

PSP awards are subject to 
recovery and withholding 
provisions allowing the Company 
to withhold invested awards or 
reclaim vested awards under 
certain circumstances.

Normal awards of up to 
200 per cent of salary.

Awards of up to 300 per cent 
of salary may be made in 
exceptional circumstances.

To motivate 
Executive 
Directors and 
incentivise delivery 
of performance 
over the long term.

To encourage 
greater 
shareholder 
alignment by 
rewarding total 
shareholder return 
(“TSR”) 
outperformance.

To facilitate share 
ownership.

The annual bonus plan is 
subject to the achievement 
of stretching performance 
conditions based on financial 
performance of the Group and 
personal strategic objectives 
which reflect key business 
drivers. The majority (if not all) 
of any bonus will be 
determined by financial 
measures with only a minority 
being paid for achieving 
threshold performance levels.

The performance measures 
used for the 2017/18 annual 
bonus and those proposed for 
2018/19 are described in the 
Annual Report on 
Remuneration starting 
on page 38.

NCO awards will be granted 
subject to a combination of 
financial measures (including 
but not limited to relative TSR 
and adjusted EPS) over at least 
a three-year period.

The Committee will review 
the appropriateness of the 
performance conditions on an 
annual basis and may make 
changes to the weightings or 
introduce new measures which 
are aligned to the Company’s 
strategy at that time.

The performance measures 
used for previous awards, and 
proposed for the coming year, 
are described in the Annual 
Report on Remuneration.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

42

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 2018

Remuneration for Executive Directors continued
Policy table continued

Element

Operation

Opportunity

Performance metrics

Company Share Option Plan (“CSOP”)

For Executive Directors, 
performance conditions will be 
linked to those used under the 
corresponding PSP award.

Aggregate value of any PSP 
and CSOP award granted will not 
normally exceed normal awards of 
200 per cent of salary (300 per 
cent of salary in exceptional 
circumstances), with PSP grant 
levels in the same year taken into 
consideration and 
reduced accordingly.

To incentivise 
and recognise 
service over the 
longer term.

The Company operates a share 
option plan under which it may 
grant share options with an 
exercise price as determined 
by the Committee on grant. The 
terms on which an award vests are 
determined by the Committee on 
grant and, once vested, options 
are exercisable up to ten years 
from the date of grant.

For Executive Directors with PSP 
awards, any grant of CSOP awards 
will be linked to the grant of PSP 
awards, which will be reduced 
accordingly to reflect the value 
received under any CSOP award.

CSOP awards are subject 
to recovery and withholding 
provisions allowing the Company 
to withhold invested awards or 
reclaim vested awards under 
certain circumstances.

Executive share ownership

To align Executive 
Directors’ and 
shareholders’ 
interests.

All Executive Directors are expected 
to hold an investment of at least 
100 per cent of base salary in the 
Company, using 50 per cent of net 
awards under the Company’s PSP to 
achieve the shareholdings, if required.

100 per cent of salary for all 
Executive Directors.

Not applicable.

Remuneration for Non-executive Directors
The remuneration policy for Non-executive Directors is set out below.
Policy table

Element

Operation

Opportunity

Performance metrics

To attract and 
retain high calibre 
Non-executive 
Directors.

To set remuneration 
by reference to the 
responsibilities and 
time commitment 
undertaken by each 
Non-executive 
Director.

Fee levels are reviewed on a 
periodic basis and are set based 
on expected time commitments 
and responsibilities and in context 
of the fee levels in companies of a 
comparable size and complexity.

The Committee sets the fee for the 
Non-executive Chairman, whereas 
fees for the Non-executive 
Directors are set by the members 
of the Board, excluding the 
Non-executive Directors.

Not applicable.

The Non-executive Chairman’s fee 
and Non-executive Director fees 
are set out in the Annual Report 
on Remuneration.

Any increase in fees may be 
above those of the wider workforce 
(in percentage terms) in any particular 
year, reflecting the periodic nature 
of any review and/or changes 
to time commitments  
and/or responsibilities.

In exceptional circumstances, if 
there is a temporary yet material 
increase in the time commitment for 
Non-executive Directors, the Board 
may opt to pay additional fees to 
recognise the additional workload.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

The Committee operates the annual 
bonus plan and long-term incentive plans 
according to their respective rules and 
consistent with normal market practice, 
the Listing Rules and HMRC rules where 
relevant, including flexibility in a number 
of regards. These include:

 > timing of awards and payments;

 > the size of an award (within the limits 
noted in the table above) and when 
and how much should vest;

 > who receives an award or payment;

 > dealing with a change of control or 

restructuring of the Group;

 > determining whether a participant is 
a good/bad leaver for incentive plan 
purposes and whether and what 
proportion of awards vest;

 > any adjustments required to awards 
in certain circumstances (e.g. rights 
issues, corporate restructuring, 
events and special dividends); and

 > the weightings, measures and targets 
for the annual bonus plan, PSP and 
CSOP from year to year.

The Committee retains the discretion 
to adjust the targets and/or set different 
measures and alter weightings for the 
annual bonus plan and to adjust targets 
for the PSP and CSOP if events occur 
(e.g. a major acquisition or disposal) 
which cause it to determine that the 
plan conditions are unable to fulfil their 
original intended purpose and if the 
change would not be materially less 
difficult to satisfy than as originally set.

Existing awards
The Committee intends to honour any 
commitments, including the outstanding 
PSP awards, on the terms applicable at 
the time each such commitment was 
made. The relevant outstanding awards 
are described in the Annual Report 
on Remuneration.

43

have been regarded as a frustrating 
action under the Takeover Code. 
Accordingly, no service agreement was 
entered into at the time of his appointment 
due to restricted terms being applied 
relative to the approved Directors’ 
remuneration policy. There continues to be 
no service agreement in place and therefore 
certain elements of the remuneration policy 
continue to be disapplied.

The Executive Directors are eligible to 
participate in such bonus arrangements 
as Revolution may specify from time to 
time. The Revolution Board retains 
absolute discretion to determine whether 
or not a bonus should be paid to an 
Executive Director and, if a bonus is to 
be paid, the amount of such bonus. 

Copies of Rob Pitcher’s service contract 
and Mike Foster’s appointment letter are 
available for inspection, on request to the 
Company Secretary, at the Company’s 
registered office.

On cessation of an Executive Director’s 
employment, the treatment of any 
outstanding share awards will be governed 
by the rules of the appropriate plan. In the 
normal course, awards will lapse. If a 
participant is treated as a good leaver (for 
reasons of death, injury, permanent ill 
health or disability, redundancy, the 
employing entity ceasing to be a member 
of the Group, the business being 
transferred outside of the Group, or any 
other reason the Committee determines 
at its discretion) the award will normally 
be deemed to vest on the originally 
prescribed vesting date to the extent that 
the performance conditions have been 
achieved and pro-rated for the service 
period rendered (unless the Committee 
decides to vest awards at cessation and/
or disapply time pro-rating).

The Non-executive Directors have letters 
of appointment which provide for notice 
by either party giving to the other not less 
than six months’ notice in writing for the 
Chairman and three months’ notice in 
writing for other Non-executive Directors. 
The Company may also terminate by 
making a payment in lieu of notice.

None of the employment contracts 
or letters of appointment of the 
Directors contain special contractual 
termination provisions.

Executive Directors’ service 
agreements including policy on 
contracts of service
Rob Pitcher
On 25 June 2018, Rob Pitcher 
(Revolution’s Chief Executive Officer) 
entered into a service agreement with 
Revolution, under which he is currently 
entitled to receive an annual base salary 
of £350,000. His appointment (as Revolution 
Director) is subject to annual re-election 
by shareholders at the 2018 AGM. 
If he is not re-elected as a Director, his 
employment continues in accordance 
with the terms of his service agreement. 

Under the terms of the service 
agreement, Rob Pitcher is entitled to 
an annual car allowance of £15,000 per 
annum, private health insurance for 
himself, his spouse and his family, life 
assurance and a pension contribution 
of 15 per cent of basic salary.

The service agreement is terminable by 
Rob Pitcher or Revolution on not less than 
12 months’ prior written notice. Revolution 
can, however, terminate Rob Pitcher’s 
service agreement immediately, provided 
that such termination is effected together 
with payment of a cash sum in lieu of 
notice equivalent to the basic salary, 
pension allowance, car allowance and 
the value of his insured benefits to which 
he would have been entitled for the 
remainder of his notice period. 

The service agreement is terminable 
with immediate effect without notice 
in certain circumstances.

Mike Foster
Mike Foster (Revolution’s Chief Financial 
Officer and Company Secretary) 
continues to perform his duties on the 
basis of an appointment letter which 
was approved by the Revolution Board 
on 29 May 2017 under the terms of which 
he is entitled to receive an annual base 
salary of £200,000 and an annual 
car allowance of £15,000, as well as 
private health insurance for himself 
and his spouse. 

Mike Foster’s employment is terminable 
by him or Revolution on not less than six 
months’ prior notice.

At the time of Mike Foster’s appointment, 
the Group had been approached about 
a potential offer for the business and, 
therefore, permission for the appointment 
had to be sought and was granted from 
the Takeover Panel as it could potentially 

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

44

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 2018

Other employees’ pay
The Committee does not consult with employees directly on matters of Executive remuneration. However, the Committee is aware of 
the disconnect which may be created if Executive Director remuneration is set in isolation and therefore is updated during the year 
with details of the pay and employment conditions in the wider workforce. In particular, the Committee is made aware of general 
salary increases, general benefit provision and the proposed level of annual bonuses. The Committee is also responsible for 
reviewing the proposed participants of the PSP and the CSOP.

Remuneration policy across the Group
The remuneration policy described in this report is broadly consistent with the policy used for other Senior Executives of 
the Company. A significant proportion of remuneration remains performance related, although lower quantums operate.

The majority of employees participate in an annual bonus or incentive scheme, although the limits and performance metrics vary 
according to seniority and location of the role. Participation in the PSP and the CSOP is targeted at senior management and other 
key staff such as area managers who are more able to influence overall trading performance.

New senior employees are eligible to join a defined contribution pension plan.

Policy on Executive Director recruitments/promotions
In relation to external Executive recruitment or internal promotion, the Committee will follow the principles outlined in the table below:

Element of remuneration

Base salary

Salary levels will be set based on:

 > the particular experience, knowledge and skills of the individual;

 > market rates for comparable positions in companies of a similar size and complexity; and

 > internal Company relativities.

Where considered appropriate, the Committee may wish to set the initial salary below the perceived market rate (e.g. to reflect 
an individual’s limited experience at a public limited company board level) but with the view to make phased increases, 
potentially above those of the wider workforce as a percentage of salary, so as to achieve the appropriate market positioning 
over time. Any increases would be subject to the individual’s continued development and performance in the role.

Benefits

A new appointment would be offered the same or a similar benefits package (or equivalent, in line with local market practice) 
as that provided to current Executive Directors.

Where considered necessary, the Committee may be required to pay certain relocation expenses, legal fees and other costs 
incurred by the individual in relation to their appointment.

Pension

A defined contribution or cash supplement (or equivalent, in line with local market practice) at the level provided to current 
Executive Directors may be provided.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

45

Element of remuneration continued

Annual bonus

The Committee would envisage the annual bonus for any new appointment operating as set out in the policy table for 
current Executive Directors. The annual bonus maximum, as a percentage of salary, would be limited to that of the current 
Chief Executive Officer.

However, the Committee may consider it necessary (depending on timing and the nature of the appointment) to set different 
tailored performance measures for the initial bonus year.

Long-term incentives

Ongoing LTIP awards will be made on the same terms as current Executives’, albeit possibly with different performance periods 
depending on the timing of the appointment. The maximum ongoing award, as a percentage of salary, will be no higher than that 
of the current Chief Executive Officer. An award may be made shortly after an appointment if the Committee regarded it to be an 
exceptional circumstance and subject to the Company not being in a closed period. In accordance with the rules of the scheme, 
awards are normally made within 42 days of an announcement of the Group’s results.

For internal promotions, existing awards will continue over their original vesting period and remain subject to their terms as 
at the date of grant.

Buy-out awards

To facilitate external recruitment, it may be necessary to buy out remuneration which would be forfeited on the appointee 
leaving their previous employer. When determining the quantum and structure of any buy-out awards, the Committee will, 
where possible, use a consistent basis, taking into account the form of remuneration (cash or shares), timing horizons and 
the application of any performance criteria.

Buy-out awards, if used, will be granted using the Company’s existing share plans to the extent possible, although awards 
may also be granted outside of these schemes if necessary and as permitted under the Listing Rules.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

46

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 2018

Shareholder engagement
The Committee considers an open and constructive dialogue with investors to be vitally important to establishing a successful 
remuneration policy that is considered fair and transparent by both Executives and shareholders. Therefore, the Committee will 
consult with major investors whenever material changes to the policy are proposed. The Committee also welcomes investor feedback 
and will consider views raised at the AGM and regular meetings throughout the year when establishing the overall policy.

Reward scenarios
The charts below illustrate the level and mix of remuneration based on the current remuneration arrangements depending on the 
achievement of threshold, target and maximum performance of annual bonus and long-term incentives for the Executive Directors. 
These charts are indicative as share price movement and dividend accrual have been excluded. All assumptions made are noted 
below the chart.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER 
PERFORMANCE

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER 
PERFORMANCE

)

0
0
0
£

’

(

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

2,000

1,200

1,000

800

600

400

200

0

£1,138

31%

32%

£816

21%

27%

£421

100%

52%

37%

Minimum

Target

Maximum

)

0
0
0
£

’

(

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

2,000

1,200

1,000

800

600

400

200

0

£405

16%

30%

54%

£218

100%

£551

24%

30%

40%

Minimum

Target

Maximum

  Fixed pay

  Annual bonus

  Long-term incentives

Assumptions:
1.  Base salary as at 1 July 2018.

2.  Annualised benefits based on terms as at 1 July 2018.

3. 

4. 

 Minimum performance assumes no bonus, on-target performance assumes 60 per cent of the maximum bonus potential and 
maximum performance assumes 100 per cent of salary for the annual bonus.

 For the CEO and for the 2018/19 financial year only a PSP award of 300 per cent of salary has been included, which is in line 
with the Company’s offer letter and which will be awarded shortly after the Company’s preliminary results announcement – 
initially equivalent to 200 per cent of salary with a further 100 per cent to be issued after the preliminary announcement in 2019. 
50 per cent of the face value is assumed at the target level. The total value of the award is spread over the three-year 
vesting period.

5. 

 For the CFO, maximum performance includes the initial PSP grant of 200 per cent of salary, with 50 per cent of face value 
assumed at the target level. The total value of the award is spread over the three-year vesting period.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
 
47

size and complexity, and is aware of the 
level of salary increases awarded to other 
employees within the Group. 

Salaries were not reviewed at the normal 
review date at the beginning of July 2018 
consistent with the decision not to review 
the salaries of the senior management 
team. Current salaries are summarised 
as follows:

 > Rob Pitcher, Chief Executive Officer, 

£350,000 per annum 
(2017: Mark McQuater £375,000); and

 > Mike Foster, Chief Financial Officer, 

£200,000 per annum (2017: £200,000).

Performance-related bonus
The maximum bonus potential for the 
Chief Executive Officer and the Chief 
Financial Officer for the 52 weeks ending 
29 June 2019 is 100 per cent of basic 
salary earned in the reporting period. 

Executive Directors’ bonuses are based 
80 per cent on an annual scorecard 
of financial performance metrics and 
20 per cent on personal strategic 
objectives that reflect key drivers of the 
business, such as the number and trading 
performance of new openings, customer 
feedback, product quality and staff 
engagement. An underpin relating to 
financial performance applies to the 
annual bonus award, which gives 
discretion to the Remuneration Committee 
to reduce the award if deemed necessary. 

For the 52 weeks ending 29 June 2019, 
the financial performance metrics will be 
measured based on adjusted EBITDA and 
adjusted profit before tax (“PBT”). Further 
detail about such strategic and personal 
objectives is considered commercially 
sensitive and will therefore not be 
disclosed prospectively. This bonus is 
wholly payable in cash and subject to 
recovery provisions for three years from 
date of payment.

Long-term incentive awards
The Committee believes that 
share ownership and the granting 
of share-based incentives strengthen 
the link between Executives’ personal 
interests and those of the shareholders. 
The Company has two long-term share 
plans in place, being a Company Share 
Option Plan (“CSOP”) and a Performance 
Share Plan (“PSP”).

Annual Report on Remuneration
The Committee’s terms of reference are 
available from the Company Secretary 
and can be found on the Company’s 
website at www.revolutionbarsgroup.com.

During the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018, 
the Committee met formally on four 
occasions, with all members attending 
each meeting.

The key activities of the Committee 
during the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018 
have been:

 > approval of the bonus outcome and 
pay-out in respect of the financial 
reporting period for the 52 weeks 
ended 1 July 2017, confirming that 
the calculation had been made in 
accordance with the agreed mechanism;

 > to determine the calculations to be 

applied to the vesting of shares under 
the long-term incentive plan in 
connection with the recommended 
Board offer from Stonegate Pub 
Company Limited that would have 
applied had such offer been approved 
by shareholders;

 > to agree an appropriate bonus payment 

for Mike Foster in recognition of 
implementing improved financial controls 
and reporting and the considerable 
workload associated with dealing with 
the approaches to the Company in 
respect of an offer for the Company. 
Such bonus was contingent on 
completion of the takeover of the 
Company and therefore was not paid;

 > to determine the remuneration to 

be paid to Keith Edelman during the 
period over which he undertook the 
role of Executive Chairman following 
the resignation of Mark McQuater as 
Chief Executive Officer;

 > to approve awards under the LTIP 
scheme for Mike Foster and other 
senior managers;

 > determination of the financial terms 
of the termination arrangements for 
Mark McQuater and Jimmy Del Giudice;

 > review of salary arrangements 
for certain members of senior 
management; and

 > to agree the salary and other benefit 
arrangements for Rob Pitcher prior to 
his appointment as Chief Executive 
Officer on 25 June 2018.

Composition of the Remuneration 
Committee (unaudited)
The Committee currently consists of 
Michael Shallow (Chairman), Keith Edelman 
(Non-executive Chairman) and Jemima Bird 
(Non-executive Director). None of the 
Committee has any personal financial 
interest (other than as a shareholder), 
conflicts of interest from cross-directorships, 
or day-to-day involvement in the running 
of the business. Keith Edelman acted 
as Executive Chairman between 
17 October 2017 and 24 June 2018, 
during which period the Group was 
without a Chief Executive Officer. 

The Chief Executive Officer is invited 
to attend meetings, although is not 
present when matters affecting his 
own remuneration are discussed. The 
Company Secretary or their nominee 
acts as secretary to the Committee.

The Committee retains independent 
remuneration consultants, Mercer, 
to advise on aspects of Executive 
remuneration. Mercer is a member of the 
Remuneration Consultants Group and is 
signatory to its code of conduct. Mercer 
has no connection with Revolution Bars 
Group plc other than in the provision of 
advice on Executive remuneration. The 
terms of engagement with Mercer are 
available from the Company Secretary 
on request. The fees payable to Mercer 
during the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018 
were £8,400 (2017: £8,924 paid to Aon).

During the year, the Company also used 
Macfarlanes LLP to provide advice on 
termination arrangements relating to 
Mark McQuater and Jimmy Del Giudice 
and the appointment of Rob Pitcher.

The Committee reviews its relationships 
with external advisers on a regular 
basis and believes that no conflicts 
of interest exist.

Implementation of the remuneration 
policy in the 52 weeks ending 
29 June 2019 (unaudited)
Basic annual salary
Each Executive Director’s basic salary 
is normally reviewed and determined 
by the Committee annually, taking into 
account the individual’s performance and 
experience. The Committee also, from 
time to time, makes use of independent 
benchmark data provided by external 
remuneration consultants, takes due 
account of market data in separate 
comparator groups based on sector, 

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

48

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 2018

Implementation of the remuneration policy in the 52 weeks ending 29 June 2019 (unaudited) continued
Long-term incentive awards continued
In the coming period, the Committee plans to award Rob Pitcher options under the PSP and CSOP equivalent to three times salary, 
as agreed under the terms of his appointment. The Committee also expects to award options to senior managers who join the Group 
and to existing senior managers to replace options that were granted under the 2015 IPO that have lapsed. 

Policy on Executive share ownership
The remuneration policy requires Executive Directors to invest in the Company to a level of at least 100 per cent of annual salary 
over time, save that under such policy Executive Directors may build to this level using 50 per cent of net awards under the 
Company’s long-term incentive plans. 

Details of current share ownership levels are set out on page 52.

Non-executive Directors’ fees and incentives
The fees of the Non-executive Directors are set by the Board following a review against fee levels operated in companies of a 
comparable size and after taking into account the anticipated time commitment of each role. The Non-executive Directors do 
not participate in any incentive, pension or benefit schemes of the Company.

Details of each Director’s remuneration for the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018 are given below.

Directors’ remuneration for the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018 (audited)

Executive Directors

Rob Pitcher2

Mike Foster

Mark McQuater3

Chris Chambers4

Sean Curran5

Non-executive Directors

Keith Edelman6

Michael Shallow

Jemima Bird

Aggregate emoluments

2018

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

Fees/
salary
£’000

7

200

15

368

368

21

218

206

255

90

40 

40

30

16

921

953

Taxable
benefits 1
£’000

Pension
£’000

Bonuses
£’000

Long-term
incentives
£’000

Single figure 
of total 
remuneration
£’000

—

17

1

40

41

1

17

23

—

—

—

—

—

—

58

82

1

—

—

64

64

3

33

31

—

—

—

—

—

—

68

128

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

44

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

44

—

8

217

16

516

473

25

268

260

255 

90

40 

40

30

16

1,091

1,163

1  Taxable benefits comprise medical insurance policies and car allowances.

2  Rob Pitcher was appointed to the Board on 25 June 2018; his remuneration figures above reflect the period from the date of appointment only.

3   Mark McQuater stepped down from the Board on 17 October 2017. His remuneration for 2018 includes contractual payments due during his notice period 

of £334,000 up to the end of the reporting period.

4  Chris Chambers, who stepped down from the Board on 6 May 2017, received a final payment in lieu of notice in the 2018 reporting period.

5  Sean Curran stepped down from the Board on 31 August 2016 but under agreed severance arrangements was paid until 10 May 2017.

6   Keith Edelman assumed the role of Executive Chairman on 17 October 2017, before resuming his role as Non-executive Chairman on 24 June 2018. 

Of the figure presented above, £227,000 relates to the period over which he was the Executive Chairman.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

49

Basic annual salary
Executive Directors’ salaries as at 1 July 2018 are as follows:

 > Rob Pitcher, Chief Executive Officer, £350,000 per annum. 

 > Mike Foster, Chief Financial Officer, £200,000 per annum.

Performance-related bonus
For the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018, a discretionary annual bonus plan was operated for the Executive Directors and other 
senior management. A percentage of each individual’s base salary was payable, based on the attainment on a sliding scale of adjusted 
EBITDA and adjusted profit before tax targets, as well as on the achievement of personal objectives. The performance-related bonus 
did not apply to the Executive Chairman during the period in office.

For each measure a bonus pool was created once a threshold target level of adjusted EBITDA or adjusted profit before tax 
had been achieved. For achieving threshold target performance, a pool of £320,000 would be allocated to be shared by all 
participants. Up to an additional £630,000 would be allocated to the pool for performance between threshold target and budget, 
with up to a further £100,000 of EBITDA (or PBT) allocated to the pool for performance above budget. 

EBITDA performance
Actual adjusted EBITDA performance for the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018 did not achieve the threshold target and consequently 
no bonus payment became payable.

PBT performance
Actual adjusted profit before tax performance for the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018 did not achieve the threshold target and 
consequently no bonus payment became payable.

Full details of the performance outcome are set out in the table below:

Financial objectives

Performance measure

Adjusted EBITDA (£’000)

Adjusted profit before tax (£’000)

Target

16,188

10,050

Stretch

18,375

11,408

Annual bonus

Performance
outcome

Weighting

Outcome
(% of max bonus)

15,008

7,976

40%

40%

80%

0%

0%

0%

A bonus of up to 20 per cent could also be earned based on personal objectives but the Committee decided that due to profit 
performance in the reporting period falling significantly short of target and given the restatement of prior year earnings it was not 
appropriate to make such awards.

The table below summarises the overall bonus result.

Individual

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Financial Officer

Total bonus: % salary payable

0% of salary payable

0% of salary payable

Acknowledging that the bonus mechanism is in line with the remuneration policy, the Committee is comfortable that the level of 
bonuses paid to Executive Directors reflects both the Company performance during the year and is consistent with the treatment 
of other senior managers.

Pension arrangements
The Company contributed to defined contribution schemes or made cash payment equivalents for Executive Directors at the 
following percentages of basic salary:

Rob Pitcher 

Mark McQuater 

Keith Edelman 

Mike Foster 

15.0 per cent

17.5 per cent 

0.0 per cent

0.0 per cent

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
 
  
  
50

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 2018

Non-executive Directors’ fees and incentives continued
Performance Share Plan (“PSP”) – awards granted in FY18 (audited)
The following PSP award was issued to an Executive Director:

Executive

Type of award

Exercise price (p)

Number of 
awards granted

Basis of award

Face value 1

Percentage which
vests at threshold

Performance
period end

Mike Foster

Performance share

0.1

240,000 200% of salary

£240,000

25%

30.06.20

1  Face value was determined based on the share price of 162.4 pence at the date of the grant of the awards.

This award is subject to stretching performance conditions, which are tested over a three-year performance period between 1 July 2017 
and 30 June 2020, and will vest in 2020 to the extent these conditions are satisfied.

Part A – EPS targets
The vesting of Part A of the award will be dependent on the Group’s EPS performance over the three-year performance period. 
No portion of Part A will vest unless the Group’s EPS growth is at least equal to a compound annual growth rate of 7 per cent; 
thereafter the following vesting schedule will apply:

The Company’s EPS compound growth

At least 7% per annum

Extent of vesting of Part A

25%

Between a minimum of 7% per annum and 13% per annum

Pro-rata between 25% and 100%

At least 13% per annum

100%

Part B – TSR targets
The vesting of Part B of the award will be dependent on the Group’s TSR over the performance period, measured relative to the TSR 
of the constituents of a bespoke peer group of other UK-listed restaurant and bar sector companies over the same period. 

No portion of Part B will vest unless the Group’s TSR performance would mean it were ranked at least median within the comparator 
group; thereafter the following vesting schedule will apply:

The Company’s TSR performance versus the TSR of the comparator group

Median

Between median and upper quartile

Upper quartile (or better)

Extent of vesting of Part B

25%

Pro-rata between 25% and 100%

100%

The base point from which TSR is measured for the comparator group is a three-month average prior to the start of the performance 
period, and the end point for both the Company share price and the comparator group will be an average over the last three months 
of the performance period.   

In calculating the annual charges arising from the incentive, expected volatility has been estimated by considering historical average 
share price volatility for both the Company and other similar companies. Staff attrition has been assessed based on historical 
retention rates.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

51

Outstanding Executive share awards

Executive Director

Scheme

Grant date

Mike Foster

Exercise 
price (p)

No. of 
shares at 
1 July 2017 

Granted 
during 
the year 
Number

Vested 
during 
the year 
Number

Lapsed 
during 
the year 
Number

No. of 
shares at
 30 June 2018 

Vesting date

PSP 

14.11.17

CSOP

14.11.17

0.1

1.62

— 240,000

—

—

18,518

258,518

—

—

—

—

—

—

240,000 30 Nov 2020

18,518 30 Nov 2020

258,518

Mark McQuater1

PSP – IPO LTIP
tranche 1

PSP – IPO LTIP
tranche 2

PSP – IPO LTIP
tranche 3

19.03.15

19.03.15

19.03.15

0.1

0.1

0.1

700,000 

350,000 

350,000 

CSOP

19.03.15

191 

15,706 

1,415,706

—

—

—

— 

— 

29,159

670,841

 — 

350,000

 — 

350,000

 —

15,706

29,159

1,386,547 

—

—

—

—

—

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

1  Mark McQuater resigned on 17 October 2017.

Directors’ share-based incentives
Aggregate emoluments do not include any amounts for the value of share-based incentives to acquire Ordinary Shares in the 
Company granted to or held by the Directors. 

The number of Ordinary Shares that may be issued under the PSP and any other share plan may not exceed 5 per cent of the 
Ordinary Shares in issue in any ten-year period. The initial awards made at IPO do not count for the purposes of this limit and, 
following the lapse of such awards made to Mark McQuater on his resignation, no initial awards are held by Directors of the 
Company. As at 30 June 2018, 475,000 IPO awards held by other senior managers remain outstanding, equivalent to 24 per cent 
of the Ordinary Shares in issue (2017: 91 per cent). 

Payments made for loss of office and payments to past Directors (audited)
Mark McQuater resigned from the Board on 17 October 2017. He remains on garden leave until 16 October 2018 during which time he 
receives his normal pay and benefits. No bonus payments were made to Mark McQuater during the reporting period but 29,159 options 
under the Performance Share Plan became exercisable as part of the contract termination arrangements and were duly exercised 
during the reporting period. All other share awards under the long-term incentive plan have lapsed. The number of options that 
became exercisable was determined independently by the Committee’s adviser, Mercer, and was pro-rated both for performance 
and time served up to the date of resignation. 

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
 
 
 
 
52

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 2018

Directors’ interests and shareholding guidelines (audited)
The following table shows Directors’ interests in the Company:

Director

Rob Pitcher

Mike Foster

Keith Edelman

Michael Shallow

Jemima Bird

Beneficially owned
 at 30 June 2018
Number

—

— 

30,500

12,750

12,750

Outstanding 
LTIP awards
Number

—

258,518 

— 

— 

— 

Outstanding share
awards under 
all employee
share plans
Number

Total interest 
in shares
Number

Shareholding as a %
 of base salary at 
30 June 2018

—

—

— 

— 

— 

—

258,518 

30,500

12,750

12,750

0%

0%

n/a

n/a

n/a

Executive Directors with service contracts are expected to hold an investment of at least 100 per cent of base salary in Company 
shares. 50 per cent of any awards which vest under the Company’s LTIPs (net of any taxes due) must be retained until the requirement 
has been met. The table above shows Directors’ interests in shares and the percentage of the guideline currently met as at 30 June 2018.

The shareholding counting towards the measurement of the guideline is calculated on the basis of legally-owned shares. The 
percentage of guideline met is based on the annual base salary and the higher of the acquisition cost of the shareholding or its 
current market value. Once an Executive Director meets the required holding, the Executive Director is only required to purchase 
additional shares equivalent to the value of any increase in base salary. 

Performance graph and Chief Executive Officer remuneration table (unaudited)
The graph below illustrates the Company’s total shareholder return (“TSR”) performance relative to the FTSE Fledgling Index 
(excluding investment trusts). This was chosen as it represents a broad-based index of which the Company is a constituent. 
Performance is shown over the period from the Company’s listing in March 2015 through to the end of the current reporting period 
at 30 June 2018. The graph shows performance of a hypothetical £100 invested at IPO and its performance over that period. 

Total shareholder return 
Source: FactSet

250

200

150

100

50

0

)
d
e
s
a
b
e
R

(

)
£
(
e
u
a
V

l

Revolution Bars Group plc

FTSE Fledgling (excluding investment trusts)

March 2015

June 2015

July 2016

July 2017

June 2018

This graph shows the value, by 30 June 2018, of £100 invested in Revolution Bars Group plc on 12 March 2015, compared with the 
value of £100 invested in the FTSE Fledgling (excluding investment trusts) Index.

The other points plotted are the values at intervening financial year-ends.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
 
53

The table below details the CEO’s remuneration over the same period as presented in the TSR graph:

Single figure of remuneration (£’000)

Rob Pitcher1

Mark McQuater2

LTIP vesting (% of maximum)

Bonus (% of maximum)

2018

8

516

—

—

2017

—

473

—

—

2016

2015

—

570

—

22%

—

449

—

12%

1  Rob Pitcher was appointed to the Board as CEO on 25 June 2018. 

2  Mark McQuater resigned from the Board on 17 October 2017 and remains on garden leave until 16 October 2018.

Percentage increase in the remuneration of the Chief Executive Officer (unaudited)
The table below demonstrates the movement in the salary, benefits and annual bonus for the Chief Executive Officer between the 
current and previous financial periods compared to that for the average full-time salaried employee. For this purpose, given that 
there was no Chief Executive Officer in place for the majority of the year, the percentage change shown reflects the difference in 
the packages between the start and end of the reporting period. 

CEO %

Employee %

Salary

Taxable benefits

Annual bonus

Relative importance of spend on pay (unaudited)

Staff costs

Distributions to shareholders

(6.7)

(33.6)

—

2017
£m

40.0

2.5

3.2

nil

nil

%

6

—

2018
£m

42.3

2.5

Shareholder voting on the Directors’ Remuneration Report at the 2017 AGM (unaudited)
At the AGM on 30 November 2017, the Directors’ Remuneration Report and Annual Report on Remuneration received the following 
votes from shareholders:

Directors’ Remuneration Report

% of votes cast 51.9

Votes for

Votes against

Votes withheld

25,902,544

99.8

52,105

0.2

—

—

Note: A vote withheld is not a vote in law and is not counted in the calculation of the proportion of votes cast “for” and “against” a resolution.

As indicated in the section of the report under Directors’ remuneration policy, the Group’s remuneration policy was put to a formal 
and binding vote at the 2015 AGM and was expected to continue to apply until 30 June 2018. Therefore, a vote was not held on the 
Directors’ remuneration policy at the 2017 AGM. There are no plans to materially change the policy, but given the expiry of the 
three-year period for which approval was originally given, shareholders will be asked to vote on the policy at the 2018 AGM. 

Approval
This report was approved by the Remuneration Committee and signed on its behalf by:

Michael Shallow
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee
2 October 2018 

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

54

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT

AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT

Michael Shallow 
Chairman of the Audit Committee

Dear shareholder
I am pleased to introduce the report of the 
Audit Committee for the 52 weeks ended 
30 June 2018. 

I am, therefore, suitably experienced 
to perform the role of Audit Committee 
Chairman and have a good understanding 
of the sector in which the Group operates.

The Code recommends that all members 
of the Committee be Non-executive 
Directors, independent in character and 
judgement and free from any relationship 
or circumstance which may, could or 
would be likely to, or appear to, affect 
their judgement and that at least one such 
member has recent and relevant financial 
experience. Accordingly, the Committee 
comprises all three independent 
Non-executive Directors with me as 
Committee Chairman, considered by 
the Board to have recent and relevant 
financial experience due to my previous 
experience in senior financial roles. For 
the period between 17 October 2017 and 
24 June 2018, Keith Edelman served as 
Executive Chairman during which period 
he continued to be a member of the 
Committee and, therefore the Company 
was not in compliance with the Code 
during this period. Given that the 
Committee comprises only three 
members and that the majority were 
independent Non-executive Directors 
during this period and given the issues 
under review by the Committee during 
this period, I as Committee Chairman was 
satisfied that this was in the best interests 
of the Company and its shareholders. 

I have previously held senior finance 
positions in large leisure sector companies 
including finance director of Greene King 
plc and have been a non-executive director 
and audit committee chairman at Britvic plc, 
Spice plc (now EnServe Group Limited) 
and Domino’s Pizza Group plc. 

Regular Committee meetings are also 
normally attended by the Chief Financial 
Officer and the external auditor. The 
Chief Financial Officer, who is also the 
Company Secretary, acts as secretary 
to the Committee. Other members of 
management, particularly senior financial 
managers, are invited to attend depending 
on the matters under discussion.

The Committee meets at least twice 
a year at the appropriate times in the 
reporting and audit cycle and also at least 
twice per annum ensures that there is 
meeting time with the external auditor 
with no members of management present. 
The Committee was set up by the Board 
to assist it with its responsibilities in 
respect of financial reporting, including 
reviewing annual and half-year results, 
external auditing, internal controls, and 
advising on the independence and 
appointment of the external auditor. 
The Committee also routinely examines 
significant accounting treatments facing 
the Group and will focus on those matters 
raised by the external auditor which they 
consider to be of significant audit risk. 

Following completion of the Group’s audit 
for the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2017 
and the other associated formalities, the 
Committee reflected on the difficulties 
that the Group had experienced on its 
financial reporting (as reported in last 
year’s Committee report) which had given 
rise to a significant number of prior year 
adjustments. The Committee decided that 
a change of auditor was appropriate and 
accordingly a tender process was 

undertaken by the Committee resulting 
in the resignation of KPMG LLP and 
appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers 
LLP (“PwC”) as the Group’s external 
auditor on 29 January 2018. The 
Committee is satisfied that, since the date 
of appointment, PwC has undertaken its 
responsibilities as the Group’s external 
auditor to a high standard and therefore 
the Committee will be recommending that 
PwC be formally appointed as auditor at 
the 2018 annual general meeting (“AGM”). 
The PwC audit partner responsible for the 
Group is Randal Casson. 

During the year, the Directors continued 
to assess the following key areas:

 > Board governance, including the 
Committee and the procedure for 
assessing the Group’s key risks;

 > management accounting processes 

and the quality of information provided 
to the Board;

 > external financial reporting procedures 

and audit arrangements and 
reporting standards;

 > complex transactions, potential 

exposure and risk;

 > information systems; and

 > budgeting and forecasting procedures 

and controls.

The Directors recognise the need to 
maintain the financial reporting procedures, 
review them on a continuing basis and 
adapt them to changing circumstances. 
Their review forms part of the Committee’s 
agenda going forward together with its 
wider role and responsibilities, which are 
set out in more detail in this report. 

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

55

I look forward to meeting with 
shareholders at the AGM to answer 
any questions on the work of the 
Audit Committee.

Assessing effectiveness 
of external audit process
Whilst the Committee does not rely 
solely on the work of the external auditor, 
it regards the breadth and quality of the 
work performed by the external auditor 
as contributing significantly to several of 
the Committee’s objectives, particularly 
regarding assurance relating to the 
accuracy and reliability of its external 
reporting and for reviewing objectively 
the Group’s systems and internal controls. 
For that reason, planning meetings are 
held with the external auditor to review 
its proposed work programmes and any 
recommendations made by the external 
auditor is reviewed in depth as are its 
findings from its review of the half-year 
and year-end accounts. The Committee 
meets to discuss the performance of the 
external auditor and to consider priorities 
for future work. This review process led 
to the decision to change the external 
auditor earlier in the year.

In order for the auditor to be fully 
effective, it must be independent of the 
Company and the Committee intends to 
ensure that no other work is performed by 
the external auditor so that its independence 
is not compromised. New EU legislation 
on permitted non-audit services came 
into effect from 17 June 2016 which 
introduced a permitted non-audit services 
fee cap of 70 per cent of the average audit 
fee over a consecutive three-year period. 
This cap comes into effect for the Group 
in the financial year ending 30 June 2020. 
During the year the value of non-audit 

services provided by the external auditor 
amounted to 0.15 million (2017: £0.02 million). 
The non-audit services relate to work 
performed by PwC prior to its appointment 
as external auditor. This non-audit 
work was referred to in last year’s 
Audit Committee Report and related to 
an investigation into and a report to the 
Committee on the Group’s accounting for 
supplier rebates and short-life assets. 
This work was substantially completed 
prior to the completion of KPMG LLP’s 
audit of the results for the 52 weeks 
ended 30 June 2017 and subsequently 
a related smaller piece of work was 
undertaken by PwC to finalise the 
investigation. This work was completed 
before PwC was invited to participate in 
the tender process for the appointment as 
the Group’s external auditor and both the 
Committee and PwC carefully considered 
whether there was any conflict of interest 
and were satisfied that there was not. 
The Committee does not intend that PwC 
will be engaged to perform any other 
non-audit services other than to review 
the Group’s interim reporting, which it 
considers to be both incidental to the 
role as auditor and helpful to performing 
its role as auditor.

Under the EU audit regulation, the 
Company is required to undertake a 
tender for audit services at least every 
ten years (being for the period commencing 
July 2024). In light of the appointment of 
PwC as external auditor during the year, 
there are no plans to undertake a tender 
in the foreseeable future.

Role and responsibilities
The Committee’s terms of reference 
can be found on the Group’s website or 
alternatively can be obtained from the 
Company Secretary. The primary function 

of the Audit Committee is to assist the 
Board in fulfilling its responsibilities to 
protect the interests of shareholders 
with regard to the integrity of financial 
reporting, audit, risk management and 
internal controls. This comprises:

 > monitoring and reviewing the Group’s 
accounting policies, practices and 
significant accounting judgements; 

 > receiving the annual and half-yearly 
financial statements and any public 
financial announcements and advising 
the Board on whether the annual report 
and accounts is fair, balanced and 
understandable in relation to the 
external audit;

 > reviewing compliance with the UK 

Corporate Governance Code;

 > overseeing the Group’s procedures for 

its employees to raise concerns through 
its whistleblowing policy as set out in 
the code of conduct and business 
principles policy;

 > monitoring the effectiveness of the risk 
management systems and processes;

 > assessing and advising the Board on 
the internal financial, operational and 
compliance controls; and

 > approving the appointment and 

recommending the re-appointment 
of the external auditor; 

 > its terms of engagement and fees;

 > the scope of its work and reviewing 

the results of that work;

 >  reviewing and monitoring its 

independence; and 

 >  reviewing its effectiveness.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

56

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT CONTINUED

 > receiving the external auditor’s reports 

to the Committee;

 > reviewing the Group’s accounting 

policies and key accounting judgements;

 > considering the risk assessment, 

mitigation actions and assurance activities 
produced by management; and 

The Committee’s terms of reference are 
available from the Company Secretary 
and can be found on the Company’s 
website at www.revolutionbarsgroup.com.

During the period the Committee met 
formally on two occasions with all members 
attending. The key activities of the 
Committee during the period have been:

 > reviewing compliance with and 

explaining any exceptions from the 
UK Corporate Governance Code.

Internal audit
The Group does not have an internal audit 
function and to date has considered that 
the key risks to the business are covered 
by a combination of resources including 
its compliance department, stock-takers 
and area managers.

The Group’s compliance department 
is responsible for managing many of 
the principal risks facing the business 
concerning licensing and health and 
safety. Its work is supported by external 
consultants on both of these matters 
and as part of these arrangements 
annual contracts are in place to provide 
at least two audit visits per annum by 
fully qualified health and safety advisers.

To strengthen and complement this 
function a Risk Committee has been 
established chaired by the Chief Financial 
Officer and comprising certain members 
of the Senior Management team. The 
purpose of the Committee is:

 > to identify, mitigate and prevent risk 

as far as possible;

 > to protect the financial, physical and 
reputational image of the business;

 > to fulfil the Company’s legal 

obligations; and

 > to ensure visibility and transparency 

over controls.

 > to ensure any critical issues arising 
from the audits carried out by the 
external consultants are rectified in 
a timely function;

 > to monitor health and safety issues in 

venues including certification compliance, 
review of risk assessments, food safety 
issues and review of insurance matters;

 > to ensure the Company adheres to the 

licensing objectives to protect all 
premises licences; and

 > to advise on changes in relevant 

legislation and policies.

The Group also employs four full-time 
stock-takers who are checking stocks and 
various other generally related compliance 
matters such as cash counts on a 
risk-assessed basis. Each site’s stock is 
counted on average between eight and 
ten times per annum. Stock-take results 
are reviewed by both operational and 
finance staff immediately when they 
are made available.

An important element of the area 
manager’s role is to perform spot checks 
on cash, stocks, licensing and health and 
safety matters as part of their regular site 
visits. The area manager assessments are 
used, amongst other things, to rate 
general managers; poor scores relating 
to these matters and brand standards will 
reduce their bonus earnings potential.

Meetings and attendance
During the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018, 
the Audit Committee met formally on five 
occasions, with all members attending the 
meetings. At two of the meetings, the 
Audit Committee had access to the external 
auditor without management present. 

Work performed by the Committee during 
the year has included:

 > engaging PwC to undertake a review 

of the Group’s historical accounting for 
supplier rebates and short life assets 
and receiving and reviewing PwC’s 
interim findings and commissioning 
a related smaller piece of work to 
satisfy further the Committee’s further 
questions in relation to these matters;

 > work associated with the 

accounting review and application 
of accounting policies;

 > resignation of KPMG LLP and undertaking 
a tender for audit services culminating 
in the appointment of PwC as the 
Group’s auditor;

 > reviewing the independence and 

objectivity of PwC as external auditor, 
together with its effectiveness, 
following its initial audit and 
recommending its appointment to 
shareholders at the AGM;

 > receiving the external auditor’s reports 
to the Committee in respect of the 
interim audit review;

 > reviewing and approving the external 
audit plan for the 52 weeks ended 
30 June 2018;

 > reviewing the market update in 

June 2018;

 > reviewing the annual report and 

accounts for 2018 and recommending 
to the Board its adoption as fair, 
balanced and understandable. 
In fulfilling this task, the Committee 
reviewed the process undertaken 
to produce the annual report and 
accounts 2018, which included internal 
verification processes and content 
approval procedures;

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

57

Significant accounting matters
During the year, the Company received 
a “Request for information” from the 
Financial Reporting Council, in respect 
of certain matters, principally deferred 
taxation credits and share-based payment 
disclosure, in the Group’s annual report 
and accounts to 1 July 2017. As a result of 
the subsequent internal review, the Group 
has restated its Financial Statements in 
respect of a deferred taxation credit. The 
full nature of this restatement is reported in 
Note 1b to the Financial Statements. The 
Group has also improved its share-based 
payment disclosures, as reported in Note 
19 to the Financial Statements. The FRC 
enquiry in respect of these matters was 
closed on 26 July 2018.

When reviewing the Company’s 2017 
Annual Report and Accounts, the FRC has 
made clear to us the limitations of its 
review as follows: 

 > its review is based on the 2017 Annual 

Report and Accounts only and does not 
benefit from a detailed knowledge of 
the Group’s business or an 
understanding of the underlying 
transactions entered into; 

 > communications from the FRC provide 
no assurance that the Company’s 2017 
Annual Report and Accounts are correct 
in all material respects and are made on 
the basis that the FRC (and its officers, 
employees and agents) accepts no 
liability for reliance on them by the 
Company or any third party, including 
but not limited to investors and 
shareholders; and 

 > the FRC’s role is not to verify 

information provided but to consider 
compliance with reporting requirements.

In reviewing the financial statements with 
management and the external auditor, the 
Committee has discussed and debated 

the critical accounting judgements and 
key sources of estimation uncertainty as 
set out in Note 1 to the consolidated 
financial statements. 

As a result of its review, the Committee 
has identified the following issues that 
require particular judgement or have 
significant impact on the interpretation of 
the Annual Report and Accounts for 2018:

 > Accrued rebates from suppliers: rebates 
are usually invoiced on a monthly or 
quarterly basis based on supplied 
volumes and whilst these can usually 
be quickly assessed post-period, 
judgements are also sometimes 
required as to whether longer-term 
contractual thresholds will be met. 
Due to improved controls implemented 
during the year and regular monthly 
reviews undertaken by senior finance 
management, the requirement for 
judgements to be applied has been 
reduced dramatically. Where relevant, 
the Committee is satisfied that appropriate 
judgements have been made.

 > Carrying value of fixed assets: the 

Group keeps the carrying value of its 
fixed assets under review. Formal 
procedures are used in each external 
reporting period to make assessments 
of the appropriateness of carrying 
values within the balance sheet. As a 
result of its reviews, the Committee has 
applied accelerated depreciation rates 
on certain leasehold improvements.

 > Capitalisation of property, plant 

and equipment: the Committee has 
reviewed capitalisation policies and 
in particular the capitalisation of 
internal costs in relation to property 
development and IT systems development 
and is satisfied that its policies and the 
amounts capitalised are appropriate.

 > Accounting for and the disclosure of 
a prior period adjustment in respect 
of impairment calculations: The 
Committee became aware during the 
period that impairment calculations 
undertaken previously had not fully 
allocated head office costs to sites 
and this error of principle resulted 
in certain sites becoming impaired. 
The Committee was consulted 
and reviewed these calculations.

 > Exceptional items: exceptional items 
on a pre-tax basis of £11.1 million 
(2017: £2.3 million) represent a material 
item in the profit and loss account. The 
charge comprises fees associated with 
the resignations of the Chief Executive 
Officer and the Chief Operating Officer, 
fees associated with the accounting 
review, professional fees associated 
with the unsolicited approaches to 
the Company from Stonegate Pub 
Company Limited and the Deltic Group, 
which culminated in a formal offer being 
put to a shareholder resolution at an 
extraordinary general meeting, an 
increase in the provision for onerous 
leases, and a fixed assets impairment 
charge (see Note 3 to the consolidated 
financial statements). The Committee 
reviewed the constituent elements of 
this cost and was satisfied that they 
were exceptional in nature.

The Committee reviewed reports 
presented by PwC that detailed key audit 
findings in relation to the above 
accounting matters.

Michael Shallow
Chairman of the Audit Committee
2 October 2018

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

58

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
NOMINATION COMMITTEE REPORT

NOMINATION COMMITTEE REPORT

Keith Edelman 
Chairman of the Nomination Committee

Dear shareholder
I am pleased to introduce the report of the 
Nomination Committee for the 52 weeks 
to 30 June 2018. 

Responsibilities
The Committee’s terms of reference, 
which can be found on the Group’s website 
and can be obtained from the Company 
Secretary, deal with such issues as 
membership and frequency of meetings, 
together with the requirements for quorum 
and notice procedure and the right to 
attend meetings. The responsibilities of the 
Committee covered in its terms of reference 
include reviewing Board composition, 
appointing new Directors, re-appointment 
and re-election of existing Directors, 
succession planning taking into account 
the skills and expertise that will be needed 
on the Board in the future, reviewing time 
required from Non-executive Directors, 
determining membership of other Board 
Committees and ensuring external 
facilitation of the evaluation of the Board. 
As part of its activities the Committee 
also considers the diversity of the Board.

Composition
The Code recommends that a majority of 
the members of the Nomination Committee 
should be independent Non-executive 
Directors. The Committee is chaired by me, 
and its other members are Michael Shallow 
and Jemima Bird, who are independent 
Non-executive Directors, and the Chief 
Executive Officer (Mark McQuater up 
to 17 October 2017 and Rob Pitcher 
from 25 June 2018). Accordingly, the 
Committee complies with the Code 
recommendation. By invitation, the 
meetings of the Committee may be 
attended by the Chief Financial Officer, 
although this did not occur during the 
year under review. 

Meetings and attendance
During the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018, 
the Nomination Committee met formally on 
one occasion with all members attending 
the meetings. The Committee will continue 
to meet formally at least once a year and 
at such other times as the Board or the 
Committee Chairman requires. The 
Committee has access to sufficient 
resources to carry out its duties, including 
the services of the Company Secretary. 
Independent external legal and professional 
advice can also be taken by the Committee 
if it believes it is necessary to do so.

Election of Directors
On the recommendation of the Committee 
and in line with the Code, all of the Group’s 
Directors will stand for election at the 
forthcoming AGM and will subsequently 
offer themselves for re-election on an 
annual basis.

The biographical details of the Directors 
are set out on pages 30 and 31. Following 
performance evaluations conducted 
during the year, the Committee is satisfied 
that the Directors who served during the 
52 weeks ended 30 June 2018 performed 
effectively and demonstrated a commitment 
to their roles. Annual performance 
reviews will continue going forward.

Diversity
We pride ourselves on being a diverse 
and inclusive business. All employees 
are welcomed and treated with respect, 
regardless of their background. We remain 
committed to offering equal opportunities for 
colleagues to develop, progress and grow. 

The Committee supports the 
recommendations outlined in the Hampton-
Alexander Review “FTSE Women Leaders” 
and is aware of the need to increase the 
number of women on the Board, and in other 

senior management positions, to which it is 
committed over time. Within this overriding 
commitment, we will make appointments 
based on merit and against objective criteria 
to ensure we appoint the best individual for 
each role. The Committee and the Board 
understand the importance of a diverse 
Board membership and throughout the 
senior management team. The Committee 
also recognises that diversity encompasses 
not only gender but also background, 
ethnicity and disability. The Committee 
believes that all appointments should be 
made on merit, the key criterion being 
whether or not the appointee can add to or 
complement the existing range of skills and 
experience of the relevant team.

Jemima Bird is the only woman on the 
Company’s Board in 2018 and two of the 
eight members of the senior management 
team are women (25 per cent). Across our 
business of over 3,200 employees, female 
employees represented approximately 44 
per cent of the workforce as at 30 June 2018 
(1 July 2017: 42 per cent). The Group is 
committed to continuing to develop the 
potential of its female employees through 
its training programmes and its corporate 
development pipeline.

Gender pay gap
In accordance with statutory requirements, 
the Group published its gender pay 
reporting by the due date. To find out 
more and to understand what we are 
doing to support gender equality, please 
read our report on our corporate website.

I look forward to meeting with shareholders 
at the AGM to answer any questions on 
the work of the Nomination Committee.

Keith Edelman
Chairman of the Nomination Committee
2 October 2018

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
DIRECTORS’ REPORT

59

Introduction
The Directors present their annual 
report and the audited consolidated 
financial statements of the Company 
and Group for the 52 weeks ended 
30 June 2018. This Directors’ Report 
includes additional information required 
to be disclosed under the Companies Act 
2006, the Code, the DTRs and the Listing 
Rules of the Financial Conduct Authority. 
Certain information required to be 
included in the Directors’ Report is 
included in other sections of this annual 
report as follows, which is incorporated 
by reference into this Directors’ Report:

 > the Strategic Report on pages 1 to 27 

which sets out a review of the business 
of the Group during the 52 weeks 
ended 30 June 2018 and the financial 
position of the Group at the end of that 
period to enable shareholders to assess 
how the Directors have performed their 
duty under section 172 of the Companies 
Act. The review also describes the 
principal risks and uncertainties facing 
the Group, provides a fair review of the 
Group’s business at the end of the 
financial year and an indication of likely 
future developments in the business;

 > the Corporate Governance Statement 

on pages 28 to 62; and

 > related party transactions as set out 

in Note 23 to the consolidated 
financial statements.

This Directors’ Report together with the 
Strategic Report set out on pages 1 to 27 
represents the “Management Report” 
for the purpose of compliance with the 
DTR 4.1.5R.

Results and dividend
The Group’s results for the year are shown 
in the statement of comprehensive income 
on page 70. The Directors intend, subject 
to sufficient distributable reserves being 
available, to pay a final dividend in respect 
of the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018 of 
3.3 pence per share (2017: 3.3 pence per 
share). The Group paid an interim dividend 
of 1.65 pence per share during the period 
(2017: 1.65 pence per share), taking the total 
dividend in relation to the 52 weeks ended 
30 June 2018 to 4.95 pence per share 
(2017: 4.95 pence per share). Payment 
of the dividend is subject to shareholder 
approval at the AGM. 

Share capital and related matters
The Company has only one class of share 
and the rights attached to each share are 
identical. Details of the rights and 
obligations attaching to the shares are 
set out in the Company’s Articles of 
Association, which are available from 
the Company Secretary and can also 
be found on the Company’s website  
www.revolutionbarsgroup.com under 
investor relations and shareholder 
information. The Ordinary Shares are 
listed on the official list and are traded 
on the London Stock Exchange. The 
Company may refuse to register any 
transfer of a share which is not a fully 
paid share. At a general meeting of the 
Company, every member has one vote 
on a show of hands, and on a poll one 
vote for each share held. Details of the 
voting procedure, including deadlines for 
exercising voting rights, are set out in the 
Notice of AGM 2018. As at 30 June 2018, 
the issued share capital of the Company 
was 50,029,159 Ordinary Shares of 
£0.001 each. Details of the share capital 
as at 30 June 2018 are shown in Note 18 
to the consolidated financial statements.

Powers of the Directors
The Directors may exercise all the 
powers of the Group including, subject 
to obtaining the required authority from 
the shareholders in general meeting, 
the power to authorise the issue of 
new shares and the purchase of the 
Company’s shares. During the year, 
the Directors have not exercised any 
of the powers to issue or purchase 
shares in the Company.

Restrictions on transfer
There are no general restrictions on 
the transfer of Ordinary Shares in the 
Company other than in relation to certain 
restrictions that are imposed from time to 
time by laws and regulations (for example 
insider trading laws). Pursuant to the 
Listing Rules, Directors and certain 
officers and employees of the Group 
require the approval of the Company to 
deal in the Ordinary Shares of the Company.

The Company has in place certain share 
incentive plans and details of these can 
be found on page 51. As at the financial 
period end on 30 June 2018 and up to the 
date of this report, no awards have been 
granted to the Company’s new Chief 
Executive Officer, Rob Pitcher. Awards 
of 258,518 shares have been granted 
to Mike Foster, Chief Financial Officer. 
During the reporting period, 29,159 
options were exercised, 2,316,882 
awards lapsed and further awards 
of 845,247 have been granted.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

60

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
DIRECTORS’ REPORT CONTINUED

Substantial shareholdings
As at 25 June 2018 and 28 September 2018, the Company had been notified, in accordance with the DTRs, of the following interests 
representing 3 per cent or more of the voting rights in the issued share capital of the Company:

As at 25 June 2018

As at 28 Sept 2018

Name of holder

Artemis Investment Management 

Sanford DeLand Asset Management

Legal & General Investment Management

AXA Framlington Investment Managers

Credit Suisse as principal

GLG Partners CfD

River and Mercantile Asset Management

Chelverton Asset Management

Hargreaves Lansdown, stockbrokers (EO)

Deltic Group

Directors
The Directors of the Company and their 
biographies are set out on pages 30 and 31. 
Their interests in the Ordinary Shares of 
the Company are shown in the Directors’ 
Remuneration Report on page 52. 

Mark McQuater stepped down from the 
Board on 17 October 2017 and Rob Pitcher 
was appointed as an Executive Director 
on 25 June 2018. Keith Edelman, who was 
a Director throughout the reporting period, 
served as Non-executive Chairman 
from the beginning of the period until 
17 October 2017, after which he served as 
Executive Chairman until the date of Rob 
Pitcher’s appointment, when he resumed 
the role of Non-executive Chairman.

Appointment and removal 
of Directors
Directors may be appointed by 
ordinary resolution of the Company or 
by the Board. All Directors will stand for 
re-election on an annual basis in line 
with the recommendations of the Code. 
In addition to any powers of removal 
conferred by the Companies Act 2006, 
the Company may by special resolution 
remove any Director before the expiration 
of his period of office.

Total holding
of shares

9,432,753

5,185,000

4,588,000

2,979,877

2,455,209

2,455,209

3,172,259

2,100,000

1,690,413

1,500,000

% of total
voting rights

18.85

10.36

9.17

5.96

4.91

4.91

6.34

4.20

3.38

3.00

Total holding
of shares

10,397,163

6,185,000

4,588,000

2,979,877

2,455,209

2,455,209

2,322,259

2,250,000

1,737,980

1,500,000

% of total
voting rights

20.78

12.36

9.17

5.96

4.91

4.91

4.64

4.50

3.47

3.00

Change of control
The provisions of the Group’s share 
incentive plans may cause options and 
awards granted to employees under such 
plans to vest on a change of ownership 
of the Group. The Group does not have 
agreements with any Director that would 
provide compensation for loss of office 
or employment resulting directly from 
a change of its ownership.

Amendment to the Company’s 
Articles of Association
The Company may alter its Articles of 
Association by special resolution passed 
at a general meeting of shareholders.

Political donations
The Group has not made in the past, 
nor does it intend to make in the future, 
any political donations.

Directors’ indemnities 
and insurance
The Articles of Association of the 
Company permit it to indemnify the 
Directors of the Company against 
liabilities arising from or in connection 
with the execution of their duties or 
powers to the extent permitted by law. 
The Group has directors’ and officers’ 
indemnity insurance in place in respect 
of each of the Directors. The Group has 
entered into a qualifying third-party 
indemnity (the terms of which are in 
accordance with the Companies Act 
2006) with each of the Directors. Neither 
the indemnity nor insurance provides 
cover in the event that a Director or officer 
is proved to have acted fraudulently.

Transactions with related parties
Details of the transactions entered 
into by the Group with parties who are 
related to it are set out in Note 23 to the 
consolidated financial statements. There 
were no material transactions with related 
parties during the 52 weeks ended 
30 June 2018. 

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

61

Going concern
The Group has a £25 million revolving 
credit facility committed to 31 December 
2021. The facility provides liquidity to 
cover normal monthly and seasonal cash 
outflows, a safety net for the business 
to ride out short-term downturns in trade, 
and potentially to facilitate an acceleration 
of expansion plans if good site acquisition 
opportunities are identified in excess of 
the Company’s stated target of a minimum 
of five new sites per annum. The Group 
has opened six new sites in each of the 
last two financial years and will open a 
further five new sites in the first half of the 
new financial period. A number of these 
new sites have been in large cities 
requiring larger than average footprints 
and at higher cost. This accelerated rate 
of investment together with the one-off 
exceptional costs relating to corporate 
activity and executive director changes 
has seen utilisation of the facility over the 
last two financial periods increase from 
£0.5 million to £15.5 million with a further 
increase to £19.0 million as at the date of 
signing the financial statements.

The Group continues to be very cash 
generative pre-expansionary capital 
expenditure, has ample headroom 
on its facility to cover working capital 
and seasonal cash flow needs and can 
potentially cover a significant reduction 
in trading performance relative to recent 
levels. The acceleration of capital 
investment has coincided with a number 
of events that have adversely impacted 
trading performance and therefore the 
Board has recently agreed with its bank 
some revisions to facility covenants that 
will provide a greater level of tolerance 
over existing test levels. The Directors 
have reviewed the Group’s trading 
forecast, which demonstrate that the 
Group has adequate financial resources 
to continue in operational existence for at 
least 12 months from the date of approval 
of the financial statements and to remain 

compliant with the terms of the revolving 
credit facility and the financial covenants 
(tested quarterly) attached to it. For this 
reason the Directors continue to adopt 
the going concern basis in preparing 
the consolidated financial information.

Annual general meeting
The annual general meeting (“AGM”) 
of the Company will take place on 
26 November 2018. The Notice of 
Annual General Meeting is set out in the 
explanatory circular that accompanies 
this annual report and accounts.

Financial risk management, 
objectives and policies
The Group is exposed to certain financial 
risks, namely interest rate risk, liquidity 
risk and credit risk. Information regarding 
such financial risks is detailed in Note 20 
on page 92. The Group’s risk 
management policies and procedures and 
principal risks and mitigations can be 
found on pages 18 and 19.

Independent auditors and 
disclosure of information to auditor
The Directors who held office at the 
date of approval of this Directors’ report 
confirm that, so far as they are each 
aware, there is no relevant audit 
information of which the Company’s 
auditors is unaware, and each Director 
has taken all the steps that he ought to 
have taken as Director to make himself 
aware of any relevant audit information 
and to establish that the Company’s 
auditors is aware of that information.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (“PwC”) has 
expressed its willingness to be appointed as 
auditor of the Company. In accordance with 
section 489 of the Companies Act 2006, 
a resolution for the appointment of PwC 
as independent auditor of the Company is 
to be proposed at the forthcoming AGM.

By order of the Board

Mike Foster
Company Secretary
2 October 2018

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

62

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
STATEMENT OF DIRECTORS’ RESPONSIBILITIES IN RESPECT OF THE 
ANNUAL REPORT AND THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

 > the Group financial statements, which 
have been prepared in accordance 
with IFRSs as adopted by the European 
Union, give a true and fair view of the 
assets, liabilities, financial position 
and loss of the Group; and

 > the Strategic Report includes a fair 
review of the development and 
performance of the business and the 
position of the Group and Company, 
together with a description of the 
principal risks and uncertainties that 
it faces. 

Rob Pitcher
Chief Executive Officer

Mike Foster
Chief Financial Officer
2 October 2018

The Directors are responsible for 
preparing the annual report and the 
Group and Parent Company financial 
statements in accordance with applicable 
law and regulations.

The Directors are also responsible for 
safeguarding the assets of the Group 
and Company and hence for taking 
reasonable steps for the prevention and 
detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Company law requires the Directors to 
prepare financial statements for each 
financial 52-week period. Under that law 
the Directors have prepared the Group 
financial statements in accordance 
with International Financial Reporting 
Standards (“IFRSs”) as adopted by 
the European Union and Company 
financial statements in accordance 
with International Financial Reporting 
Standards (“IFRSs”) as adopted by the 
European Union. Under company law the 
Directors must not approve the financial 
statements unless they are satisfied that 
they give a true and fair view of the state 
of affairs of the Group and Company and 
of the profit or loss of the Group and 
Company for that period. In preparing 
the financial statements, the Directors 
are required to:

 > select suitable accounting policies and 

then apply them consistently;

 > state whether applicable IFRSs as 

adopted by the European Union have 
been followed for the Group financial 
statements and IFRSs as adopted by 
the European Union have been 
followed for the Company financial 
statements, subject to any material 
departures disclosed and explained 
in the financial statements;

 > make judgements and accounting 
estimates that are reasonable and 
prudent; and

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

The Directors are responsible for keeping 
adequate accounting records that are 
sufficient to show and explain the Group 
and Company’s transactions and disclose 
with reasonable accuracy at any time the 
financial position of the Group and 
company 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.

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.

Directors’ confirmations
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 and 
Company’s position and performance, 
business model and strategy.

Each of the Directors, whose names 
and functions are listed in Corporate 
Governance Report, confirm that, 
to the best of their knowledge:

 > the Company financial statements, which 
have been prepared in accordance with 
IFRSs as adopted by the European 
Union, give a true and fair view of the 
assets, liabilities, financial position and 
profit of the Company;

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT
TO THE MEMBERS OF REVOLUTION BARS GROUP PLC

63

Report on the audit of the financial statements
Opinion
In our opinion, Revolution Bars Group plc’s Group financial statements and Company financial statements (the “financial statements”):

 > give a true and fair view of the state of the Group’s and of the Company’s affairs as at 30 June 2018 and of the Group’s loss and 

the Group’s and the Company’s cash flows for the 52 week period (the “period”) then ended;

 > have been properly prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) as adopted by the European Union 
and, as regards the Company’s financial statements, as applied in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act 2006; and

 > have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 and, as regards the Group financial 

statements, Article 4 of the IAS Regulation.

We have audited the financial statements, included within the Annual Report and Accounts 2018 (the “Annual Report”), which comprise: 
the Consolidated and Company statements of financial position as at 30 June 2018; the Consolidated statement of profit and loss and 
other comprehensive income, the Consolidated and Company statements of cash flow, and the Consolidated and Company statements 
of changes in equity for the 52 week period then ended; and the notes to the financial statements, which include a description of 
the significant accounting policies.

Our opinion is consistent with our reporting to the Audit Committee.

Basis for opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (“ISAs (UK)”) and applicable law. Our responsibilities 
under ISAs (UK) are further described in the Auditors’ responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. 
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Independence
We remained independent of the Group in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial 
statements in the UK, which includes the FRC’s Ethical Standard, as applicable to listed public interest entities, and we have 
fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements.

To the best of our knowledge and belief, we declare that non-audit services prohibited by the FRC’s Ethical Standard were not 
provided to the Group or the Company.

Other than those disclosed in note 4 to the financial statements, we have provided no non-audit services to the Group or the 
Company in the period from 2 July 2017 to 30 June 2018.

Our audit approach
Overview

 > Overall Group materiality: £376,000, based on 5% of profit before tax and exceptional items.

Materiality

 > Overall Company materiality: £298,350, based on 1% of total assets.

 > Full scope audit of four trading entities within the Group, which together comprise 100% 

of revenue and profit before tax and exceptional items.

Audit 
scope

 > We carried out a full scope audit in relation to the Company. 

 > Going concern (Group and parent).

 > Recoverability of property, plant and equipment and onerous lease provisioning (Group).

Key audit 
matters

 > Recognition of supplier rebates (Group).

 > Prior year restatements (Group).

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

64

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT CONTINUED
TO THE MEMBERS OF REVOLUTION BARS GROUP PLC

Our audit approach continued
The scope of our audit
As part of designing our audit, we determined materiality and assessed the risks of material misstatement in the financial statements. 
In particular, we looked at where the directors made subjective judgements, for example in respect of significant accounting estimates 
that involved making assumptions and considering future events that are inherently uncertain. 

We gained an understanding of the legal and regulatory framework applicable to the Group and the industry in which it operates, 
and considered the risk of acts by the Group which were contrary to applicable laws and regulations, including fraud. We designed 
audit procedures at Group and significant component level to respond to the risk, recognising that the risk of not detecting a material 
misstatement due to fraud is higher than the risk of not detecting one resulting from error, as fraud may involve deliberate concealment 
by, for example, forgery or intentional misrepresentations, or through collusion. We focused on laws and regulations that could give rise 
to a material misstatement in the Group and Company financial statements, including, but not limited to, the Companies Act 2006, 
the Listing Rules, and UK tax legislation. Our tests included, but were not limited to, review of the financial statement disclosures to 
underlying supporting documentation and enquiries of management. There are inherent limitations in the audit procedures described 
above and the further removed non-compliance with laws and regulations is from the events and transactions reflected in the financial 
statements, the less likely we would become aware of it.

We did not identify any key audit matters relating to irregularities, including fraud. As in all of our audits we also addressed the risk 
of management override of internal controls, including testing journals and evaluating whether there was evidence of bias by the 
directors that represented a risk of material misstatement due to fraud. 

Key audit matters
Key audit matters are those matters that, in the auditors’ professional judgement, were of most significance in the audit of the 
financial statements of the current period and include the most significant assessed risks of material misstatement (whether or not 
due to fraud) identified by the auditors, including those which had the greatest effect on: the overall audit strategy; the allocation of 
resources in the audit; and directing the efforts of the engagement team. These matters, and any comments we make on the results 
of our procedures thereon, were addressed in the context of our audit of the financial statements as a whole, and in forming our 
opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters. This is not a complete list of all risks identified by 
our audit. 

Key audit matter

How our audit addressed the key audit matter

Going concern
Refer to note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated 
Financial Information.

The Group and Company financial statements 
have been prepared on the going concern basis. The 
Directors believe that the Group and Company will have 
the cash resources they require to service and settle their 
liabilities for the period extending beyond 12 months 
from the date of approval of the financial statements.

Whilst the Group has historically generated positive 
adjusted EBITDA, and is in a net asset position, the 
Group has suffered a decline in trading in recent months. 
Furthermore, the Group made a significant loss during 
the current year, and has renegotiated its banking 
facilities which has included a revision to financial 
covenants. The going concern status of the parent 
Company is intrinsically linked to the success of 
the Group.

Group and parent

Our testing focused on the key judgements and assumptions 
as follows:

 > We evaluated and assessed the process by which the 

Group’s future cash flow forecasts were prepared, including 
comparing them to the Board approved budgets, and found 
them to be consistent;

 > We obtained details of the terms of the Group’s financing 

facility and the covenants in place in relation to this facility, 
and determined that the Group cash flow forecasts show 
compliance with all covenant conditions for at least 12 months 
from the date of the approval of financial statements; 

 > We assessed the reasonableness of the key assumptions 

in the going concern model, such as like for like sales, new 
bar openings, rent and rates, payroll costs and controllable 
venue costs, which included comparing assumptions to 
historical results;

 > We considered historical forecasting accuracy, and whether the 
downside sensitivities applied were appropriately robust; and

 > We reviewed results post year end and confirmed that 

significant variations from management’s initial expectations 
were no more adverse than the sensitivity analysis performed.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

65

Our audit approach continued
Key audit matters continued

Key audit matter

How our audit addressed the key audit matter

Recoverability of property, plant and 
equipment and onerous lease provisioning
Refer to page 57 of the Audit Committee Report and note 1 
of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Information.

The property, plant and equipment balance of £60,195k 
has been tested for impairment during the year. Testing 
has been performed at a cash generating unit level, 
which has been assessed as an individual bar. 

The impairment tests performed, which are based on a 
value in use calculation, identified a prior year impairment 
charge required of £7,008k which has been recognised 
as at 2 July 2016. In addition, a further impairment 
charge, of £860k, was identified and recognised 
as an exceptional item during the year. 

The Directors have also considered whether an 
onerous lease provision is required for any bars, where 
the forecast bar contribution is lower than future rental 
costs. The assessment has been made using the same 
value in use calculation as that used for impairment 
testing of property, plant and equipment, and has 
resulted in a provision of £6,987k being recognised 
as an exceptional item in the current financial year. 

We focused on this area as the assessment 
of impairment of property, plant and equipment 
and onerous lease provisioning requires the use of 
estimates in the value in use calculation, including 
future forecast cash flows, a discount rate and long 
term growth rate, and the classification of items as 
exceptional also requires the use of judgement. 

Group

Recognition of supplier rebates
Refer to page 57 of the Audit Committee Report and note 1 
of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Information.

The Group receives rebates from certain key suppliers. 
The terms of the rebates vary by supplier but largely relate 
to listing or marketing fees, or volume based rebates on 
purchases made throughout the financial year, with the 
value being determined by the level of spend. Amounts 
recognised as a reduction from costs in the consolidated 
statement of profit and loss and other comprehensive 
income, and amounts recognised as a receivable 
in the consolidated statement of financial position, 
are material to the financial statements.

We focused on this area because the amount 
of supplier rebates income in respect of the year is 
determined by the terms for each supplier, which are 
negotiated separately and, as a result, differ from one 
another. This means that the calculation of the rebates 
recognised in the Consolidated statement of profit and 
loss and other comprehensive income, and as a receivable 
at the year end, is inherently more prone to error. We also 
focused on the existence and accuracy of the supplier 
rebate income and the valuation of year end receivable 
due to the risk of potential overstatement given the 
manual nature of the process.

Group

To assess the impairment and onerous lease provision assessment 
performed by the Directors’, which were both based on the 
same value in use model, we performed the following:

 > We evaluated and assessed the process by which the 

Group’s future cash flow forecasts were prepared, including 
comparing them to the Board approved budgets, and found 
them to be consistent;

 > assessed the reasonableness of the Board approved budget, 
including assessing the revenue and costs included in those 
budgets based on our understanding of the Group. We found 
the assumptions underpinning the budgets to be consistent 
with our understanding;

 > tested the Directors’ historical budgeting accuracy by evaluating 
whether previous budgets had been achieved. Where budgets 
had not been achieved we understood the reasons why;

 > tested the Directors’ key assumptions for long-term growth rates 
outside the budget period, by comparing them to, and finding 
them broadly in line with, forecast inflation rates in the UK; 

 > considered the discount rate by forming our own independent 
expectation of what we would consider to be an appropriate 
range, and found that the rate used was within that range;

 > assessed the split of the impairment charge identified 

between the amount recognised as a prior year restatement 
(£7,008,000) and the amount recognised during the 52 weeks 
ended 30 June 2018 (£860,000), and concurred that the split 
was appropriate; and

 > considered whether the charge recognised in respect of 

onerous leases should be recognised as an exceptional item, 
and given the magnitude of the charge concurred that the 
presentation was appropriate.

To test supplier rebates, we:

 > recalculated, for a sample of suppliers, the rebate income 
recognised within the consolidated statement of profit 
and loss and other comprehensive income in the year, and 
receivable for at the Balance Sheet date, which included 
confirming inputs into the calculation, finding them to be 
materially consistent with the related agreement;

 > compared purchases recorded in the year, and the 

contractual rebate arrangements agreed with each supplier, 
to the Directors’ calculation of the rebate income, finding 
it to not be materially different;

 > compared the receivable recognised at the prior year end 
to the amounts paid in the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018 
in respect of those receivables, with no material 
differences identified; 

 > tested whether any rebate arrangements had been incorrectly 
recognised as income in the year and receivables held at 
30 June 2018, and did not identify any material errors; and 

 > agreed amounts paid by supplier post 30 June 2018 to 

source documentation to check they had been accounted 
for in the right accounting period, and found no instances 
of amounts recorded in the wrong period.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

66

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT CONTINUED
TO THE MEMBERS OF REVOLUTION BARS GROUP PLC

Our audit approach continued
Key audit matters continued

Key audit matter

How our audit addressed the key audit matter

Prior year restatements
Refer to page 57 of the Audit Committee Report and note 1 
of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Information.

Prior period errors have been identified in relation to 
impairment of property, plant and equipment, onerous 
lease provisioning, customer credit and debit card 
transactions, deferred tax and exceptional items. 

The net impact of the restatement to correct the errors 
is a reduction in net assets of £4,475k as at 2 July 2016, 
a reduction in net assets of £4,757k as at 1 July 2017 and 
a reduction in profit after tax of £282k for the 52 weeks 
ended 1 July 2017.

We focused on this area because of the material impact on 
the net assets of the Group and judgements are involved 
in determining the amount of the identified error.

Group

To test the prior year restatements, we:

 > agreed each prior year restatement to supporting 

documentation and underlying accounting records, which 
supported the value of the error. Each prior year restatement 
was considered individually including which accounting 
period the restatement relates to;

 > assessed the appropriateness of the impairment of PPE 

being recognised as a restatement at 2 July 2016 and the 
resulting impact on the consolidated statement of profit and 
loss and other comprehensive income for the 52 weeks 
ended 1 July 2017, as described in the Key Audit Matter 
in relation to the recoverability of property, plant and 
equipment and onerous lease provisioning, and 
concurred with the treatment;

 > identified that the interest element of the onerous lease 

charge recognised in the Consolidated statement of profit 
and loss and other comprehensive income for the 52 weeks 
ended 1 July 2017 should be reclassified to interest;

 > evaluated whether customer credit and debit card transactions 
that had not cleared the bank should be reclassified from cash 
to trade and other receivables as at 2 July 2016 and 1 July 2017 
and concurred with the Directors that this reclassification 
was appropriate;

 > assessed whether it was appropriate to restate the tax credit 
in the Consolidated statement of profit and loss and other 
comprehensive income for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017. 
On the basis that £1,734k recognised related to a prior period 
error, we concurred with the restatement which resulted in 
an adjustment to the deferred tax position as at 2 July 2016;

 > evaluated the appropriateness of removing the share based 
payment charge from exceptional items. On the basis that 
this is a recurring item we agreed with this restatement; and

 > tested the disclosures in respect of prior year restatement 
and concluded they were adequate and in line with the 
requirements of IAS 8. 

Based on the above, we found the accounting entries to correct 
the prior period errors to be materially correct.

How we tailored the audit scope
We tailored the scope of our audit to ensure that we performed enough work to be able to give an opinion on the financial statements 
as a whole, taking into account the structure of the Group and the Company, the accounting processes and controls, and the industry 
in which they operate.

The Group consists of nine legal entities, all of which are managed by one central finance team. Four legal entities (Revolution Bars Group plc, 
Revolución de Cuba Limited, Revolution Bars Limited and Inventive Service Company Limited) within the Group were determined to be full 
scope components. These provided coverage of 100% of revenue, profit before tax and exceptional items of the Group. No component 
auditors were involved in the audit.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

67

Our audit approach continued
Materiality
The scope of our audit was influenced by our application of materiality. We set certain quantitative thresholds for materiality. These, 
together with qualitative considerations, helped us to determine the scope of our audit and the nature, timing and extent of our audit 
procedures on the individual financial statement line items and disclosures and in evaluating the effect of misstatements, both 
individually and in aggregate on the financial statements as a whole. 

Based on our professional judgement, we determined materiality for the financial statements as a whole as follows:

Group financial statements

Company financial statements

Overall materiality

£376,000.

How we determined it

5% of profit before tax and exceptional 
items.

£298,350.

1% of total assets.

Rationale for benchmark applied

Profit before tax and exceptional items 
was selected as this provides us with a 
consistent year-on-year basis for determining 
materiality and, we believe, is a metric used 
by Shareholders when assessing 
Group performance.

Total assets is considered to be appropriate 
as it is not a profit oriented Company. The 
Company holds investments in subsidiaries 
and therefore total assets is deemed a 
generally accepted auditing benchmark.

For each component in the scope of our Group audit, we allocated a materiality that is less than our overall Group materiality. 
The range of materiality allocated across components was between £357,000 and £263,200. Certain components were audited 
to a local statutory audit materiality that was also less than our overall Group materiality.

We agreed with the Audit Committee that we would report to them misstatements identified during our audit above £18,000 
(Group audit) and £15,000 (Company audit) as well as misstatements below those amounts that, in our view, warranted reporting 
for qualitative reasons.

Going concern
In accordance with ISAs (UK) we report as follows:

Reporting obligation

Outcome

We are required to report if we have anything material to add or draw 
attention to in respect of the Directors’ statement in the financial statements 
about whether the Directors considered it appropriate to adopt the going 
concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements and the 
Directors’ identification of any material uncertainties to the Group’s and the 
Company’s ability to continue as a going concern over a period of at least 
12 months from the date of approval of the financial statements.

We have nothing material to add or to 
draw attention to. However, because not all 
future events or conditions can be predicted, 
this statement is not a guarantee as to the 
Group’s and Company’s ability to continue 
as a going concern.

We are required to report if the Directors’ statement relating to going concern 
in accordance with Listing Rule 9.8.6R(3) is materially inconsistent with our 
knowledge obtained in the audit.

We have nothing to report.

Reporting on other information 
The other information comprises all of the information in the Annual Report other than the financial statements and our auditors’ report 
thereon. The Directors are responsible for the other information. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other 
information and, accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion or, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in this report, 
any form of assurance thereon. 

In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider 
whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit, or otherwise 
appears to be materially misstated. If we identify an apparent material inconsistency or material misstatement, we are required to perform 
procedures to conclude whether there is a material misstatement of the financial statements or a material misstatement of the other 
information. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, 
we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report based on these responsibilities.

With respect to the Strategic Report and Directors’ Report, we also considered whether the disclosures required by the 
UK Companies Act 2006 have been included.  

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

68

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT CONTINUED
TO THE MEMBERS OF REVOLUTION BARS GROUP PLC

Reporting on other information continued
Based on the responsibilities described above and our work undertaken in the course of the audit, the Companies Act 2006 (CA06), 
ISAs (UK) and the Listing Rules of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) require us also to report certain opinions and matters 
as described below (required by ISAs (UK) unless otherwise stated).  

Strategic Report and Directors’ Report

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit, the information given in the Strategic Report and 
Directors’ Report for the period ended 30 June 2018 is consistent with the financial statements and has been prepared 
in accordance with applicable legal requirements. (CA06)

In light of the knowledge and understanding of the Group and Company and their environment obtained in the course 
of the audit, we did not identify any material misstatements in the Strategic Report and Directors’ Report. (CA06)

The directors’ assessment of the prospects of the Group and of the principal risks that would threaten the solvency or liquidity of the Group

We have nothing material to add or draw attention to regarding:

 > The Directors’ confirmation on page 33 of the annual report that they have carried out a robust assessment of the principal 
risks facing the Group, including those that would threaten its business model, future performance, solvency or liquidity.

 > The disclosures in the annual report that describe those risks and explain how they are being managed or mitigated.

 > The directors’ explanation on page 33 of the annual report as to how they have assessed the prospects of the Group, 

over what period they have done so and why they consider that period to be appropriate, and their statement as to whether 
they have a reasonable expectation that the Group will be able to continue in operation and meet its liabilities as they fall 
due over the period of their assessment, including any related disclosures drawing attention to any necessary qualifications 
or assumptions.

We have nothing to report having performed a review of the Directors’ statement that they have carried out a robust assessment 
of the principal risks facing the Group and statement in relation to the longer-term viability of the Group. Our review was substantially 
less in scope than an audit and only consisted of making inquiries and considering the Directors’ process supporting their statements; 
checking that the statements are in alignment with the relevant provisions of the UK Corporate Governance Code (the “Code”); and 
considering whether the statements are consistent with the knowledge and understanding of the Group and Company and 
their environment obtained in the course of the audit. (Listing Rules)

Other Code provisions

We have nothing to report in respect of our responsibility to report when: 

 > The statement given by the Directors, on page 62, that they consider the annual report taken as a whole to be fair, balanced 
and understandable, and provides the information necessary for the members to assess the Group’s and Company’s position 
and performance, business model and strategy is materially inconsistent with our knowledge of the Group and Company 
obtained in the course of performing our audit.

 > The section of the Annual Report on page 55 describing the work of the Audit Committee does not appropriately address 

matters communicated by us to the Audit Committee.

 > The Directors’ statement relating to the Company’s compliance with the Code does not properly disclose a departure 

from a relevant provision of the Code specified, under the Listing Rules, for review by the auditors.

Directors’ Remuneration

In our opinion, the part of the Directors’ Remuneration Report to be audited has been properly prepared in accordance with the 
Companies Act 2006. (CA06)

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

69

Responsibilities for the financial statements and the audit
Responsibilities of the Directors for the financial statements
As explained more fully in the Statement of Directors’ responsibilities in respect of the annual report and the financial statements, 
the Directors are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the applicable framework and for 
being satisfied that they give a true and fair view. The Directors are also responsible for such internal control as they determine 
is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud 
or error.

In preparing the financial statements, the Directors are responsible for assessing the Group’s and the Company’s ability to continue 
as a going concern, disclosing as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless 
the Directors either intend to liquidate the Group or the Company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, 
whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditors’ report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, 
but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. 
Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably 
be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. 

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

Use of this report
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 required reporting
Companies Act 2006 exception reporting
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 Company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received 

from branches not visited by us; or

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

 > the 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. 

Appointment
Following the recommendation of the Audit Committee, we were appointed by the Directors on 22 January 2018 to audit 
the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2018 and subsequent financial periods. This is therefore our first year 
of uninterrupted engagement.

Randal Casson (Senior Statutory Auditor)
for and on behalf of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditor
Manchester
2 October 2018

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

70

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF PROFIT AND LOSS AND OTHER 
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 2018

Revenue

Cost of sales

Gross profit

Operating expenses:

– operating expenses, excluding exceptional items

– exceptional items

Total operating expenses

Operating (loss)/profit

Finance expense

(Loss)/profit before taxation

Tax credit/(charge)

(Loss)/profit and total comprehensive (expense)/income for the period

(Loss)/earnings per share:

– basic and diluted (pence)

Dividend declared per share (pence)

Non-GAAP measure

Revenue

Operating (loss)/profit

Exceptional items

(Charge)/credit arising from long-term incentive plans

Bar opening costs

Adjusted operating profit

Finance expense

Adjusted profit before tax

Depreciation

Finance expense

Adjusted EBITDA

Note

2

3

3

4

7

8

9

3

52 weeks ended
30 June 2018
£’000

52 weeks ended
1 July 2017
Restated *
£’000

141,939

(33,751)

108,188

(100,120)

(11,087)

(111,207)

(3,019)

(555)

(3,574)

730

(2,844)

(5.7)

4.95

130,467

(31,075)

99,392

(91,624)

(2,288)

(93,912)

5,480

(290)

5,190 

(1,361)

3,829

7.7

4.95

141,939

130,467

(3,019)

11,087

(1,566)

2,029

8,531

(555)

7,976

6,477

555

5,480

2,288

483

1,393

9,644

(290)

9,354

5,422

290

15,008

15,066

* 

 Restated – see Note 1(b) of the consolidated financial statements for an explanation and analysis of the prior period adjustments made in respect of the profit for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017 
and in respect of other prior periods.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
AT 30 JUNE 2018

71

Note

30 June 
 2018
£’000

1 July 
 2017
Restated *
 £’000

2 July 
 2016
Restated *
£’000

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

15

18

60,195

53,353

45,898

3,892

11,474

265

4,025

19,656

79,851

3,320

10,554

—

3,050

16,924

70,277

2,961

9,230

—

1,843

14,034

59,932

(22,891)

(1,065)

—

(20,517)

(21,525)

(302)

(843)

(383)

(1,034)

(23,956)

(21,662)

(22,942)

(15,500)

(690)

(8,912)

(2,433)

(27,535)

(51,491)

28,360

50

11,645

16,665

28,360

(7,500)

(925)

(3,441)

(1,504)

(13,370)

(35,032)

35,245

50

11,645

23,550

35,245

(500)

(448)

(1,697)

(937)

(3,582)

(26,524)

33,408

50

11,645

21,713

33,408

Assets

Non-current assets

Property, plant and equipment

Current assets

Inventories

Trade and other receivables

Tax receivable

Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets

Liabilities

Current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Provisions

Tax payable

Non-current liabilities

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings

Deferred tax liability

Provisions 

Rent-free creditor

Total liabilities

Net assets

Equity attributable to equity holders of the Parent

Share capital

Merger reserve

Retained earnings

Total equity

Signed on behalf of the Board on 2 October 2018.

Mike Foster
Director

Registered number: 08838504

* 

 Restated – see Note 1(b) of the consolidated financial statements for an explanation and analysis of the prior period adjustments made in respect of the profit for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017 
and in respect of other prior periods.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
72

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 2018

At 3 July 2016 – as reported

Impact of restatements*

At 3 July 2016 – restated*

Total comprehensive income for the period – restated*

Credits arising from long-term incentive plans

Dividends paid

At 1 July 2017 – restated*

Total comprehensive expense for the period

Charges arising from long-term incentive plans

Dividends paid

At 30 June 2018

Share 
capital
£’000

50

—

50

—

—

—

50

—

—

—

50

Reserves

Merger
reserve
£’000

11,645

—

11,645

—

—

—

11,645

—

—

—

Retained
earnings
£’000

26,188

(4,475)

21,713

3,829

483

(2,475)

23,550

(2,844)

(1,566)

(2,475)

Total
 equity
£’000

37,883

(4,475)

33,408

3,829

483

(2,475)

35,245

(2,844)

(1,566)

(2,475)

11,645

16,665

28,360

* 

 Restated – see Note 1(b) of the consolidated financial statements for an explanation and analysis of the prior period adjustments made in respect of the profit for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017 
and in respect of other prior periods.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOW
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 2018

Cash flow from operating activities

(Loss)/profit before tax from operations

Adjustments for:

Net finance expense

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment

Impairment of property, plant and equipment

Tax (credit)/charge

(Charges)/credits arising from long-term incentive plans

19

Operating cash flows before movement in working capital

Increase in inventories

Increase in trade and other receivables

Increase/(decrease) in trade and other payables

Increase in provisions

Tax paid

Net cash flow generated from operating activities

Cash flow from investing activities

Purchase of property, plant and equipment

Net cash flow used in investing activities

Cash flow from financing activities

Equity dividends paid

Interest paid

Drawdown of borrowings

Net cash flow generated from financing activities

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

Opening cash and cash equivalents

Closing cash and cash equivalents

73

52 weeks ended
30 June 2018
£’000

Note

52 weeks ended
1 July 2017
Restated*
£’000

(3,574)

5,190

555

6,477

860

(48)

(1,566)

2,704

(572)

(920)

3,323

6,234

10,769

(565)

10,204

290

5,422

—

—

483

11,385

(359)

(1,324)

(644)

1,663

10,721

(1,075)

9,646

10

(14,276)

(14,276)

(12,779)

(12,779)

(2,475)

(478)

8,000

5,047

975

3,050

4,025

(2,475)

(185)

7,000

4,340

1,207

1,843

3,050

13

* 

 Restated – see Note 1(b) of the consolidated financial statements for an explanation and analysis of the prior period adjustments made in respect of the profit for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017 
and in respect of other prior periods.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
74

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 2018

1. General information
Corporate information
The consolidated financial statements of Revolution Bars Group plc for the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018 were authorised for issue 
by the Board of Directors on 2 October 2018. Revolution Bars Group plc is a public limited company incorporated and domiciled in 
the UK under the Companies Act 2006. The Company is limited by shares on the London Stock Exchange.

The registered number of the Group is 08838504 and its registered office is 21 Old Street, Ashton-under-Lyne, Tameside OL6 6LA.

Statement of compliance
The Group’s financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) 
as adopted by the EU, as they apply to the financial statements of the Group for the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018 (prior period 
52 weeks ended 1 July 2017), and in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act 2006.

Basis of preparation
The accounting period runs to the Saturday which falls nearest to 30 June each year and therefore normally comprises a 
52-week period but with a 53-week period falling at approximately five-year intervals. The period ended 30 June 2018 is a 
52-week period; the period ended 1 July 2017 was a 52-week period. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared 
under the historical cost convention in accordance with those parts of the Companies Act 2006 applicable to companies reporting under 
IFRS. References to 2018 relate to the 52-week period ended 30 June 2018 and references to 2017 relate to the 52-week period ended 
1 July 2017 unless otherwise stated. The consolidated financial statements are presented in Pounds Sterling with values rounded 
to the nearest hundred thousand, except where otherwise indicated. These policies have been applied consistently unless 
otherwise stated.

Basis of consolidation
The consolidated financial statements incorporate the financial statements of Revolution Bars Group plc and its subsidiaries. 
The financial statements of subsidiaries are prepared for the same reporting period as the Parent Company with adjustments 
made to their financial statements to bring their accounting policies in line with those used by the Group.

The financial results of subsidiaries are included in the consolidated financial information from the date that control commences 
until the date that control ceases. The consolidated financial information presents the results of the companies within the same 
group. Intra-group balances and transactions, and any unrealised income and expenses arising from intra-group transactions, are 
eliminated in preparing the consolidated financial information. Unrealised losses are eliminated in the same way as unrealised gains, 
but only to the extent that there is no evidence of impairment.

Judgements made by the Directors in the application of these accounting policies that have a significant effect on the financial 
statements and estimates with a significant risk of material adjustment in the next period are discussed below.

Going concern
The Group has a £25 million revolving credit facility committed to 31 December 2021. The facility provides liquidity to cover normal 
monthly and seasonal cash outflows, a safety net for the business to ride out short-term downturns in trade, and potentially to 
facilitate an acceleration of expansion plans if good site acquisition opportunities are identified in excess of the Company’s stated 
target of a minimum of five new sites per annum. The Group has opened six new sites in each of the last two financial years and 
will open a further five new sites in the first half of the new financial period. A number of these new sites have been in large cities 
requiring larger than average footprints and at higher cost. This accelerated rate of investment together with the one-off exceptional 
costs relating to corporate activity and Executive Director changes has seen utilisation of the facility over the last two financial periods 
increase from £0.5 million to £15.5 million with a further increase to £19.0 million as at the date of signing the financial statements.

The Group continues to be very cash generative pre-expansionary capital expenditure, has ample headroom on its facility to cover 
working capital and seasonal cash flow needs and can potentially cover a significant reduction in trading performance relative to 
recent levels. The acceleration of capital investment has coincided with a number of events that have adversely impacted trading 
performance and therefore the Board has recently agreed with its bank some revisions to facility covenants that will provide a 
greater level of tolerance over existing test levels. The Directors have reviewed the Group’s trading forecast, which demonstrates 
that the Group has adequate financial resources to continue in operational existence for at least 12 months from the date of approval 
of the financial statements and to remain compliant with the terms of the revolving credit facility and the financial covenants (tested 
quarterly) attached to it. For this reason the Directors continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the consolidated 
financial information.

(a) Accounting policies
Non-derivative financial instruments
Non-derivative financial instruments comprise investments in equity securities, trade and other receivables, cash and cash 
equivalents, loans and borrowings and trade and other payables.

Trade and other receivables
Trade and other receivables are recognised initially at fair value. Subsequent to initial recognition they are measured at amortised 
cost using the effective interest method, less any impairment losses. Receivables also include credit card sales which have not yet 
cleared the bank at the reporting date.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

75

1. General information continued
(a) Accounting policies continued
Non-derivative financial instruments continued
Trade and other payables
Trade and other payables are recognised initially at fair value. Subsequent to initial recognition they are measured at amortised cost 
using the effective interest method. 

Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash balances and call deposits. Bank overdrafts that are repayable on demand and form an 
integral part of the Group’s cash management are included as a component of cash and cash equivalents for the purpose of the 
cash flow statement only.

Interest-bearing borrowings
Interest-bearing borrowings are recognised initially at fair value less attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, 
interest-bearing borrowings are stated at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Share capital
Ordinary Shares are classified as equity. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of Ordinary Shares are recognised 
as a deduction from equity, net of any tax effects.

Merger reserve
The merger reserve arose due to the return of share capital related to the sale of a subsidiary business on 22 February 2014. 

Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment are stated at historical purchase cost less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment 
losses. Cost includes the original purchase price of the asset and the costs attributable to bringing the asset to its working condition 
for its intended use.

Depreciation is charged so as to write off the costs of assets over their estimated useful lives, on the following bases:

Short leasehold premises and improvements   –  Lower of 25 years or the remaining term of the leasehold agreement on a straight 

line basis for new bars and lower of 10 years or the remaining term of the leasehold 
agreement for refurbishments to existing bars

IT equipment and office furniture  

– 3 years to 4 years on a straight line basis

Fixtures and fittings in licensed premises  

– 5 years on a straight line basis

Freehold land is not depreciated.

Depreciation policies and useful economic lives are reviewed at each statement of financial position date.

Short leasehold costs include directly attributable employment costs and related personal expenses of individuals employed 
to manage or implement the Company’s capital development programme.

Impairment of tangible fixed assets
At each statement of financial position date, the Group reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets to determine whether 
there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. Where the asset does not generate cash flows its value 
is allocated to other cash generating units (“CGUs”) to which it is related as part of the impairment testing of those CGUs.

Recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash 
flows are discounted to their present value using a discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money 
and the risks specific to the asset for which the estimate of future cash flows has not been adjusted. If the recoverable amount of an 
asset (or cash generating unit) is estimated to be less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset (cash generating 
unit) is reduced to its recoverable amount. An impairment loss is recognised as an expense immediately.

Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value, with due allowance being made for obsolete or slow-moving items. 
Cost is based on the first-in first-out principle and includes expenditure incurred in acquiring the inventories and other costs in 
bringing them to their existing location and condition. Cost is stated net of supplier volume rebates.

Net realisable value is the estimated selling price less further costs expected to be incurred prior to disposal.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
76

1. General information continued
(a) Accounting policies continued 
Employee benefits
Defined contribution plans
A defined contribution plan is a post-employment benefit plan under which the Company pays fixed contributions to a separate 
entity and has no legal or constructive obligation to pay further amounts. Obligations for contributions to defined contribution 
pension plans are recognised as an expense in the consolidated statement of profit and loss and other comprehensive income 
in the periods during which services are rendered by employees.

Short-term benefits
Short-term employee benefit obligations are measured on an undiscounted basis and are expensed as the related service is provided. 
A liability is recognised for amounts expected to be paid under short-term cash bonus or profit-sharing plans if the Group has a present 
legal or constructive obligation to pay such amounts as a result of past service provided by the employee and the obligation can be 
estimated reliably.

Provisions
A provision is recognised in the statement of financial position when the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation as a 
result of a past event which can be reliably measured and it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle 
the obligation. Provisions are determined by discounting the expected future cash flows at a pre-tax rate that reflects risks specific 
to the liability.

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 calculations are the discount and inflation 
rates and the market rents, vacant periods and future trading income of the properties.

Revenue recognition
Revenue is the fair value of goods and services sold to third parties as part of the Group’s trading activities, net of discounts. 
Revenue primarily comprises food and beverages sold in the Group’s businesses. This revenue is recognised at the point of sale 
to the customer.

Revenue from discount cards used is recognised as discounts against the revenue when customers redeem the cards.

Expenses
Cost of sales
Cost of sales principally comprises the purchase cost of drinks and food sold.

Operating lease payments
Payments made under operating leases are recognised in the consolidated statement of profit and loss and other comprehensive 
income on a straight line basis over the term of the lease. Lease incentives received are recognised in the consolidated statement 
of profit and loss and other comprehensive income as an integral part of the total lease expense.

Supplier rebates
Supplier rebates are recognised as a deduction from cost of sales on an accruals basis using the contractual terms and volumes supplied 
up to the statement of financial position date for each relevant supplier contract. Where rebates are conditional on long-term minimum 
volumes, management judgement is applied as to the achievement of those volumes. Accrued rebates receivable as at the date 
of the statement of financial position are included within trade and other receivables. Where listing fees received are conditional 
on a contractual term, the amounts are recognised over that term.

Financing income and expenses
 > Financing expenses comprise interest payable on borrowings and other finance charges.

 > Interest income and interest payable are recognised in the consolidated statement of profit and loss and other comprehensive 

income on an accruals basis, using the effective interest method.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION CONTINUEDFOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 201877

1. General information continued
(a) Accounting policies continued 
Taxation
Tax on the profit or loss for the period comprises current and deferred tax. Tax is recognised in the consolidated statement of profit 
and loss and other comprehensive income except to the extent that it relates to items recognised directly in equity, in which case 
the tax is also recognised directly in equity.

Current tax is the expected tax payable or credit receivable on the taxable income or loss for the period, using tax rates enacted 
or substantively enacted at the statement of financial position date, and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous periods.

Deferred tax is provided on temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes 
and the amounts used for taxation purposes. The following temporary differences are not provided for: the initial recognition of goodwill; 
the initial recognition of assets or liabilities that affect neither accounting nor taxable profit other than in a business combination; and 
differences relating to investments in subsidiaries to the extent that they will probably not reverse in the foreseeable future. The amount 
of deferred tax provided is based on the expected manner of realisation or settlement of the carrying amount of assets and liabilities, 
using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the statement of financial position date.

A deferred tax asset is recognised only to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which 
the temporary difference can be utilised.

Operating segments
An operating segment is a component of the Group that engages in business activities from which it may earn revenues and incur 
expenses, including revenues and expenses that relate to transactions with any of the Group’s other components.

Segment information is based on the internal reports regularly reviewed by the Group’s Chief Operating Decision Maker (“CODM”) 
in order to assess each segment’s performance and to allocate resources to them. The CODM is the Board (see Note 2).

Share-based payments (long-term incentive plans)
The Group issues equity-settled share-based payments to certain employees. Equity-settled share-based payments are measured 
at fair value at the date of grant. The fair value determined at the grant date of the equity-settled share-based payments is expensed 
on a straight line basis over the vesting period, based on the Group’s estimate of shares that will eventually vest. This is recognised 
as an employee expense with a corresponding increase in equity. Fair value is measured by the Monte Carlo model for options 
subject to market-based performance conditions and by use of a Black Scholes model for all others. 

Exceptional items
Items that are unusual or infrequent in nature and material in size are disclosed separately in the consolidated statement of profit and 
loss and other comprehensive income. The separate reporting of these items helps provide a more accurate indication of the Group’s 
underlying business performance, which the Directors believe would otherwise be distorted. Exceptional items include impairments 
of property, plant and equipment, closure costs including onerous lease costs, contract termination costs and costs associated with 
one-off projects. Charges related to share-based payment arrangements are not treated as exceptional items, but are excluded from 
adjusted EBITDA calculations.

Bar opening costs
Bar opening costs refer to costs incurred in getting new sites fully operational and primarily include costs incurred before opening 
and in preparing for the launch. These costs are excluded from adjusted EBITDA calculations. The separate reporting of these items 
helps provide a more accurate indication of the Group’s underlying business performance, which the Directors believe would 
otherwise be distorted.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

78

1. General information continued
(b) Prior period restatements 
As previously reported, a number of prior period adjustments were reflected in the accounts for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017 
following a review of the Group’s accounting policies and practices. Those adjustments were fully explained and the resulting 
corrections made to prior periods were detailed in those accounts. As a result of circumstances, as detailed below, the following 
prior period adjustments have been reflected in these financial statements. 

Asset impairments
The Executive Chairman’s Statement accompanying this report references the Board’s decision to change the Group’s auditor and 
to undertake a tender process that required prospective auditors to undertake their own review of the Group’s accounting policies 
and practices. This identified that the Group’s methodology for identifying and providing for asset impairments should be improved. 
Historically, it had not been the Group’s practice to fully allocate head office costs to trading venues as part of its impairment test 
calculations. As this methodology had been consistently applied for a number of periods, a prior period adjustment has been made. 
This adjustment benefits the earnings of future periods as a result of reducing depreciation charges and does not affect cash flow. 
Its effect is to reduce net assets as at 2 July 2016 by £6.2 million and to increase profit after tax for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017 
by £1.5 million.

Deferred tax
As a result of an internal review following an enquiry from the Financial Reporting Council regarding a material deferred tax credit 
reported in the accounts for the period ended 1 July 2017, the Directors have now determined that this item should have been treated 
as a prior period adjustment. This item relates to temporary timing differences on fixed assets as at 2 July 2016 that were originally 
calculated using a closing tax written down value of £14.1 million whereas the capital allowances summary submitted with the 2016 
tax computations subsequently showed a tax written down value of £24.3 million. The income statement credit arising from this 
reduction in deferred tax liability has now been recognised in the period ended 2 July 2016. The effect is a decrease of the deferred tax 
liability as at 2 July 2016, and a consequential increase to profit after tax of £1.7 million in the period ended 2 July 2016. This deferred 
tax credit was originally reported as a credit to profit in the period ended 1 July 2017 and as such the impact of the restatement is to 
reduce the profit for the period ended 1 July 2017 by £1.7 million. There is no impact on net assets as at 1 July 2017. 

Onerous lease provision
When the movement on the onerous lease provision was reported in the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017, the interest charge associated 
with the movement on the provision was not separately disclosed in the income statement or the cash flow statement. An adjustment 
has been made to correct this disclosure with no effect on profit or net assets for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017.

Cash and cash equivalents
Customer credit and debit card transactions that have not yet cleared the bank account at period end but relate to sales within the 
reporting period have historically been treated as cash and cash equivalents in the statement of financial position and the cash flow 
statement. These amounts are now reported as receivables rather than cash and cash equivalents and accordingly an adjustment 
of £1.3 million has been made to the relevant balances at 1 July 2017 (2 July 2016: £0.9 million). This change in disclosure has no 
effect on profit or net assets for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017.

Directors’ remuneration
The disclosure of Directors’ remuneration for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017 was found to have been misstated by £0.1 million and 
has been corrected in Note 6. There was no effect on profit due to this error.

Summary
The Directors have taken the appropriate steps to ensure that the accounts are drawn up in accordance with the relevant accounting 
standards. The disclosures in these accounts describe the nature and impact of the most recent corrections and how these have 
been reflected in the accounts for the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018. Throughout this report, the 2017 comparatives are described as 
“Restated” which means they are adjusted for prior period adjustments, compared to those originally reported in the 2016 and 2017 
financial statements.

In aggregate, the effect of all of the prior period restatements is to reduce net assets at 2 July 2016 by £4.5 million. The cumulative 
effect of the restatements to the 2017 financial statements is to reduce profit after tax for the period ended 1 July 2017 by £0.3 million, 
and to reduce net assets as at 1 July 2017 by £4.8 million.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION CONTINUEDFOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 201879

1. General information continued
(b) Prior year restatements continued
Summary continued
A summary of the combined impact of the prior period adjustments on the consolidated statement of profit and loss and other 
comprehensive income and the consolidated statement of cash flow for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017 and on the consolidated 
statements of financial position as at 1 July 2017 and 2 July 2016 arising from the restatement are as follows: 

Consolidated statement of profit and loss and other comprehensive income for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017

1 July 2017
 As published 
£’000

Impairments 1
£’000

Onerous lease
 provisions
£’000

Deferred tax
£’000

Share-based
payments
£’000

1 July 2017
Restated
£’000

Operating profit before exceptionals 

Exceptional charge

Operating profit after exceptionals

Finance expense

Profit before tax

Tax

Profit after tax

Adjusted EBITDA

8,088

(4,352) 

3,736

(185)

3,551

560

4,111

15,066

163

1,476

1,639 

— 

1,639 

(187)

1,452

—

— 

105 

105 

(105) 

— 

—

— 

— 

—

—

—

—

(1,734)

(1,734)

—

(483)

483

—

—

—

—

—

1 

Impairments include the effect of the restatement on the depreciation charge (£163k) as a result of assets being written down in prior periods.

Consolidated statement of financial position as at 1 July 2017

1 July 2017
 As published 
£’000

Impairments 1
£’000

Debit and 
credit cards 
£’000

Deferred tax
£’000

Property, plant and equipment

58,722

(5,369)

Inventories

Trade and other receivables

Cash and cash equivalents

Current assets

Trade and other payables

Tax payable

Current liabilities

Deferred tax liabilities

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings

Provisions

Other liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Net assets

3,320

9,268

4,336

16,924

(20,819)

(843)

(21,662)

(1,537)

(7,500)

(3,441)

(1,504)

(13,982)

40,002

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

612

—

—

—

612

(4,757)

—

—

1,286

(1,286)

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

7,768

(2,288)

5,480

(290)

5,190

(1,361)

3,829

15,066

1 July 2017
Restated
£’000

53,353

3,320

10,554

3,050

16,924

(20,819)

(843)

(21,662)

(925)

(7,500)

(3,441)

(1,504)

(13,370)

35,245

1 

Impairments include the effect of the restatement on the depreciation charge (£163k) as a result of assets being written down in prior periods.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

80

1. General information continued
(b) Prior year restatements continued
Summary continued
Consolidated statement of financial position as at 2 July 2016

2 July 2016
As published
£’000

Impairments 1
£’000

Debit and 
credit cards 
£’000

Deferred tax
£’000

Property, plant and equipment

52,906

(7,008)

Inventories

Trade and other receivables

Cash and cash equivalents

Current assets

Trade and other payables

Tax payable

Current liabilities

Deferred tax liabilities

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings

Provisions

Other liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Net assets

2,961

8,303

2,770

14,034

(21,908)

(1,034)

(22,942)

(2,981)

(500)

(1,697)

(937)

(6,115)

37,883

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

799

—

—

—

799

(6,209)

—

—

927

(927)

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

1,734

—

—

—

1,734

1,734

1 

Impairments include the effect of restatement on depreciation charge (£163k) as a result of assets being written down in prior periods.

Consolidated statement of cash flow for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017

Net cash inflow from operating activities

Net cash outflow from investing activities

Net cash inflow from financing activities

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

Net cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

Net cash and cash equivalents at end of period

1 July 2017 
As published
£’000

10,005

(12,779)

4,340

1,566

2,770

4,336

Debit and 
credit cards
£’000

(359)

—

—

(359)

(927)

(1,286)

2 July 2016
Restated
£’000

45,898

2,961

9,230

1,843

14,034

(21,908)

(1,034)

(22,942)

(448)

(500)

(1,697)

(937)

(3,582)

33,408

1 July 2017
Restated
£’000

9,646

(12,779)

4,340

1,207

1,843

3,050

The impact on diluted and basic EPS for the period ended 1 July 2017 was a reduction of 0.5 pence per share to 7.7 pence per share.

(c) Critical judgements and key sources of estimation and uncertainty
The preparation of consolidated financial information in conformity with IFRS requires management to make judgements, estimates 
and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and 
expenses. Actual results in due course may differ from these estimates.

Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis, and are based on historical experience and other factors 
including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Revisions to accounting 
estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimates are revised and in any future periods affected. 

The key assumptions concerning the future and other key sources of estimation and uncertainty at the date of the statement 
of financial position that have a significant risk of causing material adjustments to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities 
within the next financial period are set out below.

The Directors consider the principal judgements made in the financial statements to be:

Exceptional items and bar opening costs: adjusted profitability measures
Management uses a range of measures to monitor and assess the Group’s financial performance. These measures include a combination 
of statutory measures calculated in accordance with IFRS and alternative performance measures (“APMs”). These APMs include the 
following adjusted measures of profitability:

 > adjusted operating profit before exceptional items, bar opening costs and share based payments;

 > adjusted profit before tax before exceptional, bar opening costs and share based payments;

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION CONTINUEDFOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 201881

1. General information continued
(c) Critical judgements and key sources of estimation and uncertainty continued
Exceptional items and bar opening costs: adjusted profitability measures continued
 > adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation before exceptional, bar opening costs (“adjusted EBITDA”) 

and share based payments; and

 > adjusted basic earnings per share (before exceptional items, bar opening costs and share based payments).

We report these measures as the Board believes that they provide management and investors with useful additional information 
about the Group’s performance. The above measures represent the equivalent IFRS measures but are adjusted to exclude items 
that we consider would prevent comparison of the Group’s performance both from one reporting period to another and with other 
similar businesses.

These items are not defined under IFRS and as such there is judgement applied in the classification of items as exceptional. 
Exceptional items are classified as those which are separately identifiable by virtue of their size, nature or expected frequency 
and therefore warrant separate presentation. Bar opening costs are other items that we consider should be presented separately 
to allow a better understanding of the underlying performance of the business. Presentation of these measures is not intended 
to be a substitute for or to promote them above statutory measures.

The Group’s consolidated statement of profit and loss and other comprehensive income provides a reconciliation of the adjusted 
profitability measures, excluding exceptional and non-underlying items to the equivalent unadjusted IFRS measures. 

Exceptional items, bar opening costs and share based payments are further detailed in Note 3 to the financial statements. 
Share based payments are detailed in Note 19.

Items that are considered to be exceptional or bar opening costs and that are therefore separately identified in order to aid 
comparability, include the following:

 > costs incurred in association with merger and acquisition activity, such legal and professional fees such as stamp duty;

 > costs incurred in respect of changes to executive management;

 > external costs of an accounting review;

 > impairment charges in respect of tangible assets as a result of underperformance of sites; and

 > costs associated with onerous leases on property. The Group may incur costs and recognise liabilities in respect of leasehold 

properties where the terms of the lease make them onerous.

Bar opening costs 
Bar opening costs comprise non-recurring bar opening costs, which are costs incurred between a site being acquired and 
commencement of trading. It predominantly includes property overheads and staff recruitment, payroll and training costs.

Capitalisation of employment costs
The Company capitalises employment costs and related personal expenses of individuals whose job roles are fundamentally 
associated with managing or implementing the Company’s capital development programme. Judgement is therefore applied in 
determining the element of internal employment costs which are directly attributable to capital projects. Where such an individual 
undertakes non-capital expenditure related activities as part of their job role then that proportion of their cost is not capitalised 
unless the non-capital expenditure related activities are incidental to their role.

The Directors consider the principal judgements made in the financial statements to be:

Provision for onerous leases (Note 15)
 > Provisions for onerous leases require estimation and judgements to be made of the amounts expected to be payable over the remaining 
lease term for bars that have been closed, including an assessment of any sublet income. The future cash flows are discounted at a rate 
which reflects the risk profile of the cash flows. Sensitivity of the provision recorded to these key assumptions is included in Note 15.

Recoverable amount of property, plant and equipment (Note 10)
 > Assets that are subject to depreciation are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstance indicate that the 
carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount 
exceeds its estimated recoverable amount.

 > The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs to sell and value in use. In assessing value in use, the expected 
future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of 
the rate of return expected on an investment of equivalent risk. For an asset that does not generate largely independent income 
streams, the recoverable amount is determined in conjunction with the income generating units to which the asset belongs.

 > Determining value in use requires a series of estimates to be made including the appropriate discount rate to calculate the present 
value, and an estimate of the cash flows expected to arise from the CGU (including an assessment of revenue and cost base growth) 
and the long-term growth rate. For further details of sensitivity to these key assumptions, see Note 10.

 > The key assumptions in the value in use calculation are the applicable discount rate of 11.7 per cent, revenue and cost base growth, 

and the long-term growth rate. 

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

82

1. General information continued
(d) New accounting standards 
There have been no significant changes to accounting under IFRS which have affected the Group’s results. The following IFRS have 
been issued but are not yet effective: 

 > IFRS 16 “Leases” was issued on 13 January 2016 and is effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2019. 
IFRS 16 is expected to have a significant impact on the amounts recognised in the Group’s consolidated financial statements. 
On adoption of IFRS 16, the Group will recognise within the statement of financial position a right of use asset and lease liability 
for all applicable leases. Within the consolidated statement of profit and loss and other comprehensive income, rent expense will 
be replaced by depreciation and interest expense. This will result in an increase in finance costs. The standard will also impact 
a number of statutory measures such as operating profit and cash generated from operations, and APMs used by the Group. 
The Group will implement this standard for the 52 weeks ended 27 June 2020. It is anticipated that the transition to IFRS 16 will 
have a material impact on the value of lease assets and liabilities recognised in the consolidated balance sheet. The Group is 
in the process of assessing the potential impact of this standard on the financial statements. Until the impact assessment is 
complete, it is not practical to provide a reasonable estimate of the financial effect of IFRS 16.

 > IFRS 9 “Financial Instruments” replaces all phases of the financial instruments project and IAS 39 “Financial Instruments: 

Recognition and Measurement”. The standard is effective from 1 January 2018 and covers three distinct areas: the classification 
and measurement of financial assets and liabilities; the impairment of financial assets; and new hedging requirements designed 
to give increased flexibility in relation to hedge effectiveness. IFRS 9 requires a new impairment model with impairment provisions 
based on expected credit losses rather than incurred credit losses under IAS 39. The Group does not believe the new requirement 
consideration of forward looking would have an impact on the Group financial position. 

 > IFRS 15 “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” is effective after 1 January 2018. It introduces a new revenue recognition model 
that recognises revenue either at a point in time or over time. The model features a contract-based five-step analysis of transactions 
to determine whether, how much and when revenue is recognised and is based on the principle that revenue is recognised when 
control of a good or service transfers to a customer. The Group recognises revenue at the point of sale to the customer, and as 
such believes that the new standard will not have a material impact on the Group.

Other standards and interpretations that are relevant to the Group have been assessed as having no significant financial impact 
or additional disclosure requirements at this time:

 > amendments to IAS 12 – Recognition of Deferred Tax Assets for Unrealised Losses; and 

 > amendments to IAS 7 – Disclosure initiative “Changes in liabilities arising from financing activities”.

2. Segmental information
The Group’s continuing operating businesses are organised and managed as reportable business segments according to the 
information used by the Group’s CODM in its decision making and reporting structure.

The Group’s internal management reporting is focused predominantly on revenue and adjusted EBITDA, as these are the principal 
drivers of the Group’s business and its allocation of resources. The CODM receives information on each trading venue and each of 
which is considered to be an operating segment. All operating segments have the same characteristics and, in accordance with IFRS 8, 
are aggregated to form an “Ongoing business” reportable segment. Within the ongoing business, assets and liabilities cannot be 
allocated to individual operating segments and are not used by the CODM for making operating and resource allocation decisions.

The Group performs all of its activities in the United Kingdom. All of the Group’s non-current assets are located in the 
United Kingdom. Revenue is earned from the sale of drink and food with a small amount of admission income.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION CONTINUEDFOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 20182. Segmental information continued

Revenue

Cost of sales

Gross profit

Operating expenses:

– operating expenses excluding exceptional items

– exceptional items

Total operating expenses

Operating (loss)/profit

Depreciation for the ongoing business is disclosed in Note 4.

3. Operating expenses

Administrative expenses

Sales and distribution

Total operating expenses

Exceptional items

Administrative expenses:

– professional fees for aborted corporate transaction

– other exceptional fees (see below)

– termination of Directors’ contracts

– impairment of property, plant and equipment

– movement on onerous lease provisions

Total exceptional items

83

52 weeks ended 
30 June 2018 
 £’000

52 weeks ended
1 July 2017
Restated *
£’000

141,939

(33,751)

108,188

(100,120)

(11,087)

(111,207)

(3,019)

130,467

(31,075)

99,392

(91,624)

(2,288)

(93,912)

5,480

52 weeks ended 
30 June 2018 
£’000

52 weeks ended
1 July 2017
Restated *
£’000

14,256

96,951

111,207

1,707

585

948

860

6,987

11,087

12,697

81,215

93,912

—

239

190

—

1,859

2,288

Exceptional items, by virtue of their size, incidence or nature, are disclosed separately in order to allow a better understanding 
of the underlying trading performance of the Group. Exceptional charges in the period amounted to £11.1 million (2017 Restated*: 
£2.3 million) and comprised the following:

Professional fees for aborted merger and acquisition activities comprise legal and corporate advisory fees, and registrar and 
virtual data room services provided in respect of the Board recommended offer from Stonegate Pub Company Limited and the 
merger proposals from the Deltic Group Limited.

Other exceptional fees relate to work undertaken in connection with accounting reviews and restatements during the period.

The costs associated with termination of Directors’ contracts relate to compensation payments and legal costs associated with the 
resignations of the Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and Chief Operating Officer and also fees and expenses relating to the recruitment 
of the replacement CEO. The comparative figure relates to the contract termination of Chris Chambers, Chief Financial Officer. 

As a result of the annual impairment testing of property, plant and equipment, the net book value of assets at four of the Group’s bars 
was written down either partially or in full.

* 

 Restated – see Note 1(b) of the consolidated financial statements for an explanation and analysis of the prior period adjustments made in respect of the profit for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017 
and in respect of other prior periods.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
 
 
 
 
 
84

3. Operating expenses continued
Following a more robust analysis of the performance of the Group’s bars, seven leases were identified as requiring an onerous lease 
provision based on projected trading contributions and rental commitments. The adjustment will reduce rental charges in future periods; 
it has no impact on the Group’s cash flows. In the comparative period, an onerous lease provision in respect of two properties was 
substantially reinstated following the discontinuation of negotiations relating to the potential sub-let of these properties.

Bar opening costs

52 weeks ended 
30 June 2018 
£’000

52 weeks ended
1 July 2017
£’000

2,029

1,393

Bar opening costs relate to costs incurred in getting new sites fully operational and primarily include costs incurred before the opening 
date preparing for the launch. The most substantial part of the costs is for rent and rates incurred between the start of the lease and 
opening. In the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018, six new bars were opened. Costs incurred in the period also include those bars 
opening in the first half of Financial Year 2019. 

4. Group operating (loss)/profit

Group operating (loss)/profit is stated after charging:

Depreciation of owned fixed assets

Impairment of property, plant and equipment 

Rentals payable under operating leases:

– leasehold premises

– other

Auditor’s remuneration:

– audit fees payable to the Company’s auditor for the audit of these financial statements

Fees payable to the Company’s auditor for:

– audit of financial statements of subsidiary

– tax services

– forensic audit

– interim review

– audit-related services

52 weeks ended 
30 June 2018
£’000

52 weeks ended
1 July 2017
Restated *
£’000

6,477

860

10,975

482

150

35

—

120

30

—

5,422

—

10,053

504

85

20

1

—

20

23

The forensic audit charges relate to work performed by PwC prior to its appointment as external auditor. This non-audit work was 
referred to in last year’s Audit Committee Report and related to an investigation into the Group’s accounting for supplier rebates 
and short-life assets. This work was completed before PwC was invited to participate in the tender process for the appointment 
as the Group’s auditor and only after it had confirmed that this work had not created a conflict of interest.

5. Staff numbers and costs
The average monthly number of employees during each period, analysed by category, was as follows:

Administration

Operational

The aggregate payroll costs were as follows:

Wages and salaries

Social security costs

Share-based payment charge

Other pension costs

52 weeks ended
30 June 2018
Number

52 weeks ended 
1 July 2017
Number

89

2,934

3,023

82

2,661

2,743

52 weeks ended
30 June 2018
£’000

52 weeks ended
1 July 2017 
£’000

40,722

2,863

(1,566)

303

36,608

2,622

483

296

42,322

40,009

In the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018, £0.6 million (2017: £0.5 million) of wages and salary costs were capitalised as property, plant 
and equipment in the consolidated statement of financial position.

* 

 Restated – see Note 1(b) of the consolidated financial statements for an explanation and analysis of the prior period adjustments made in respect of the profit for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017 
and in respect of other prior periods.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION CONTINUEDFOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 2018 
 
 
 
6. Directors’ remuneration

Aggregate emoluments

Pension contributions to money purchase schemes1

Emoluments in respect of the highest paid Director

85

52 weeks ended
30 June 2018
£’000

52 weeks ended
1 July 2017
Restated 2
£’000

1,023

68

1,091

1,191

131

1,322

Aggregate emoluments including pension contributions to money purchase schemes

516

473

1 

Includes salary enhancements made in lieu of pension contributions due to pension caps.

2  Aggregate emoluments were found to be misstated in the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017.

Two Directors (2017: two) were enrolled in the defined contribution pension scheme in the period.

Additionally, £259k of long term incentive share options were awarded to a director in the period.

7. Finance expenses

Interest payable on bank loans and overdrafts

Interest on onerous lease provisions

Interest payable

8. Taxation 
The major components of the Group’s tax (credit)/charge for each period are:

Analysis of (credit)/charge in the period

Current tax

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

Adjustment in respect of prior periods

Deferred tax

Origination and reversal of timing differences

Adjustment in respect of prior periods

Total tax

Factors affecting current tax (credit)/charge for the period

(Loss)/profit before taxation

(Loss)/profit at standard rate of UK corporation tax (2018: 19%; 2017: 19.75%)

Effects of:

– expenses not deductible for tax and other permanent differences

– adjustment in respect of prior periods

– adjustments in respect of changes in tax rates on deferred tax balances

Total tax (credit)/charge for the period

52 weeks ended
30 June 2018
£’000

52 weeks ended
1 July 2017
Restated *
£’000

478

77

555

185

105

290

52 weeks ended
30 June 2018
£’000

52 weeks ended
1 July 2017
Restated *
£’000

—

(495)

(235)

—

(730)

(3,574)

(679)

563

(812)

198

(730)

884

—

285

192

1,361

5,190

1,025

591

(132)

(123)

1,361

At 30 July 2018, the Group has carried forward tax losses of £3.6 million which are available to offset against future losses, upon 
which no deferred tax has been booked. There are no unprovided temporary differences or unused tax credits.

The UK rate of corporation tax, currently 19 per cent, will reduce to 17 per cent on 1 April 2020 under provisions contained in the 
Finance Act 2016. The Group has recognised deferred tax in relation to UK companies at either 19 per cent or 17 per cent depending 
on the period in which the deferred tax asset or liability is expected to reverse. 

* 

 Restated – see Note 1(b) of the consolidated financial statements for an explanation and analysis of the prior period adjustments made in respect of the profit for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017 
and in respect of other prior periods.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
86

9. (Loss)/earnings per share
The calculation of (loss)/earnings per Ordinary Share is based on the results for the period, as set out below.

(Loss)/profit for the period (£’000)

Weighted average number of shares – basic and diluted (‘000)

Basic and diluted (loss)/earnings per Ordinary Share (pence)

52 weeks ended
30 June 2018

52 weeks ended
1 July 2017
Restated *

(2,844)

50,029

(5.7)

3,829

50,000

7.7

Loss for the period was impacted by one-off exceptional costs and bar opening costs. A calculation of adjusted earnings per 
Ordinary Share is set out below.

Adjusted EPS

(Loss)/profit on ordinary activities before taxation 

Exceptional items, share-based payments and bar opening costs 

Adjusted profit on ordinary activities before taxation 

Taxation on ordinary activities 

Taxation on exceptional items and bar opening costs

Adjusted profit of ordinary activities after taxation 

Basic and diluted number of shares (‘000)

Adjusted basic and diluted EPS (pence per share)

10. Property, plant and equipment

Group

Cost

At 2 July 2016

Additions 

At 1 July 2017

Additions

At 30 June 2018

Depreciation

At 2 July 2016 – restated*

Provided in the period – restated*

Impairment charges – restated*

At 1 July 2017 – restated*

Provided in the period

Impairment charges

At 30 June 2018

Net book value

At 30 June 2018

At 1 July 2017 – restated*

At 2 July 2016 – restated*

52 weeks ended
30 June 2018
£’000

52 weeks ended
1 July 2017

Restated * 
£’000

(3,574)

11,550

7,976

730

(2,200)

6,506

50,029

13.0

5,190

4,164

9,354

(1,361)

(699)

7,294

50,000

14.6

Total
£’000

106,459

12,877

119,336

14,179

133,515

(60,561)

(5,422)

—

(65,983)

(6,477)

(860)

Freehold land
and buildings
£’000

Short leasehold
premises
£’000

Fixtures
and fittings
£’000

IT equipment and
office furniture
£’000

1,426

—

1,426

—

1,426

(1,216)

—

—

55,392

9,381

64,773

9,946

74,719

(21,044)

(2,259)

—

(1,216)

(23,303)

—

—

(3,479)

(676)

43,326

2,925

46,251

3,511

49,762

(33,490)

(2,513)

—

(36,003)

(2,292)

(184)

6,315

571

6,886

722

7,608

(4,811)

(650)

—

(5,461)

(706)

—

(1,216)

(27,458)

(38,479)

(6,167)

(73,320)

210

210

210

47,261

41,470

34,348

11,283

10,248

9,836

1,441

1,425

1,504

60,195

53,353

45,898

* 

 Restated – see Note 1(b) of the consolidated financial statements for an explanation and analysis of the prior period adjustments made in respect of the profit for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017 
and in respect of other prior periods.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION CONTINUEDFOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 2018 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
87

10. Property, plant and equipment continued
Depreciation and impairment of property, plant and equipment are recognised in operating expenses in the consolidated statement 
of profit and loss and other comprehensive income.

The Group has determined that for the purposes of impairment testing each bar is a cash generating unit (“CGU”). The bars are 
tested for impairment in accordance with IAS 36 “Impairment of Assets” when a triggering event is identified. The recoverable 
amounts for CGUs are predominantly based on value in use, which is calculated from the cash flows expected to be generated 
to the end of the lease term discounted at the Group’s weighted average cost of capital.

In the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018, the Group impaired the assets of four CGUs, either partially or in full, based on the value in 
use of the CGU determined by discounted cash flow projections being lower than the net book value. When an impairment loss 
is recognised, the asset’s adjusted carrying value is depreciated over its remaining useful economic life.

Following the restatements to the 2 July 2016 statement of financial position described in Note 1(b) to the financial statements, 
in the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017 no CGUs were impaired.

At the end of each reporting period, a filter test, based on annual run rate of EBITDA, is used to identify whether any asset is 
potentially impaired. The test compares a multiple of run rate EBITDA, adjusted for central overheads, to the carrying value of the 
asset. This multiple is based on the shorter of the remaining lease term or eight years.

If the filter test indicates a potential impairment, a more detailed value in use review is performed. These value in use calculations use 
cash flows based on Board-approved forecasts covering a three-year period. These forecasts combine management’s understanding 
of historical performance and knowledge of local market environments and competitive conditions to give realistic views for future 
performance. Cash flows beyond this three-year period are extrapolated using a long-term growth rate to the end of the lease term.

The key assumptions in the value in use calculations are the cash flows contained within the budgets, the long-term growth rate 
and the risk-adjusted pre-tax discount rate as follows:

 > Long-term growth rate: 2.0 per cent (2017: 2.0 per cent).

 > Pre-tax discount rate: 11.7 per cent (2017: 11.7 per cent).

The long-term growth rate has been determined with reference to forecast ten-year bond yields from the Bank of England, which 
management believes is the most appropriate indicator of long-term growth rates that is available. The pre-tax discount rate is 
based on the Group’s weighted average cost of capital.

A sensitivity analysis has been performed on each of these key assumptions with other variables held constant. 

Increasing the pre-tax discount rate by 1 per cent would result in additional impairments of £0.1 million. A 0.1 per cent decrease 
in the long-term growth rate would increase the impairment charge recorded by £0.25 million. 

11. Inventories

Goods held for resale

The cost of inventories recognised as an expense in cost of sales is as follows:

There were no expenses in cost of sales in respect of the write down of inventories.

12. Trade and other receivables

Amounts falling due within one year

Trade and other receivables

Accrued rebate income

Prepayments 

30 June 2018
£’000

3,892

1 July 2017
£’000

3,320

52 weeks ended 
30 June 2018
£’000

52 weeks ended 
1 July 2017
£’000

33,751

31,075

30 June 2018
£’000

1 July 2017
Restated *
£’000

2,610

630

8,234

11,474

1,755

895

7,904

10,554

* 

 Restated – see Note 1(b) of the consolidated financial statements for an explanation and analysis of the prior period adjustments made in respect of the profit for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017 
and in respect of other prior periods.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
 
 
 
 
 
88

12. Trade and other receivables continued
The ageing of trade receivables at the balance sheet date was:

Not past due

Past due 0–30 days

Past due 31–60 days

More than 60 days

30 June 2018
£’000

1,977

113

468

52

2,610

1 July 2017
£’000

1,373

174

33

175

1,755

The Directors are not aware of any factors affecting the recoverability of outstanding balances as at 30 June 2018.

All receivables are GBP denominated. The Group does not have a provision for bad and doubtful debts (2017: £nil).

Prepayments and accrued rebate income do not contain impaired assets. There is no difference between the carrying value and fair 
value of all trade and other receivables. £7.6 million comprises prepayments relating to property rent and rates (2017: £6.9 million).

As referred to in Note 1(b) to the financial statements, uncleared credit and debit card takings have previously been reported in 
cash and cash equivalents but are now reported in receivables and accordingly the comparative has been restated.

13. Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents

30 June 2018
£’000

4,025

1 July 2017
Restated *
£’000

3,050

Cash and cash equivalents consist entirely of cash at bank and on hand, including cash floats held at venues. Balances are 
denominated in Sterling. The Directors consider that the carrying value of cash and cash equivalents approximates to their fair value. 
As referred to in Note 1(b) to the financial statements, uncleared credit and debit card takings have previously been reported in cash 
and cash equivalents but are now reported in receivables and accordingly the comparative has been restated.

14. Trade and other payables

Trade payables

Other payables

Accruals

Other taxes and social security costs

30 June 2018
£’000

13,636

68

6,254

2,933

22,891

1 July 2017
Restated *
£’000

10,935

58

5,794

3,730

20,517

Trade and other payables are non-interest bearing and are normally settled 30 days after the month of invoice. Trade payables are 
denominated in Sterling. The Directors consider that the carrying value of trade and other payables approximates to their fair value.

15. Onerous lease provision

Opening balance

Provisions used in period

Provisions made in period

Interest charged in period

Current

Non-current

30 June 2018
£’000

3,743

(830)

6,987

77

9,977

1,065

8,912

9,977

1 July 2017
£’000

2,080

(301)

1,859

105

3,743

302

3,441

3,743

* 

 Restated – see Note 1(b) of the consolidated financial statements for an explanation and analysis of the prior period adjustments made in respect of the profit for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017 
and in respect of other prior periods.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION CONTINUEDFOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 2018 
 
 
 
 
 
 
89

15. Onerous lease provision continued
The onerous lease provision is expected to be payable over the remaining lease terms. 

The calculation is most sensitive to changes in the assumptions used to forecast trading cash flows, and a risk-free discount rate 
of 1.3%. Management considers that it is reasonably possible that the risk-free discount rate could change by +/-0.5 per cent which 
would result in a change in the corresponding liability of -/+£140,000. Similarly, a 0.1 per cent reduction in the long-term growth rate 
assumption would increase the provision recorded by £0.1 million.

16. Interest-bearing loans and borrowings

Revolving credit facility

30 June 2018
£’000

15,500

1 July 2017
£’000

7,500

In June 2017, the Group revolving credit facility was increased from £5 million to £25 million to support general corporate activity. 
Drawn elements of the facility attract an interest rate of LIBOR +2.05 per cent and the undrawn element attracts a fee of 0.82 per cent. 
The facility expires in December 2021 and is secured and supported by debentures over certain Group assets and an unlimited guarantee.

The facility is secured over the assets of Revolution Bars Group plc, Revolucion de Cuba Limited, Revolution Bars Limited and 
Inventive Service Company Limited.

The amount drawn at 30 June 2018 was £15.5 million (2017: £7.5 million). 

All borrowings are held in Sterling. There is no material difference between the fair value and book value of the Group  
interest-bearing borrowings. For more information on the Group’s exposure to interest rate risk, see Note 20.

17. Deferred tax
The following are the major deferred tax liabilities and assets recognised by the Group and movements thereon during the current 
and prior reporting periods:

At 2 July 2016 – restated*

Charge to income – restated*

At 1 July 2017 – restated*

(Charge)/credit to income

At 30 June 2018

Deferred tax assets 

Deferred tax liabilities

Total

18. Share capital

Allotted, called up and fully paid

50,029,159 £0.001 Ordinary Shares (2017: 50,000,000 £0.001 Ordinary Shares)

Share-based
payments
£’000

Accelerated capital
allowances
£’000

202

(25)

177

(158)

19

(650)

(452)

(1,102)

393

(709)

30 June 2018
£’000

19

(709)

(690)

Total
£’000

(448)

(477)

(925)

235

(690)

1 July 2017
Restated *
£’000

177 

(1,102)

(925)

30 June 2018
£’000

1 July 2017
£’000

50

50

50

50

19. Share-based payments (equity settled)
The Group currently operates an employee share incentive scheme, namely The Revolution Bars Group Share Plan. Awards under 
the scheme comprise:

 > a nominal cost option (“NCO”) granted to acquire Ordinary Shares in the Company at an option price of 0.1 pence per share; and

 > a linked, tax-favoured Company share option plan (“CSOP”) granted under Part II of The Revolution Bars Group Share Plan to 
acquire a number of Ordinary Shares in the Company. The option price is set as the market value at the time of the award.

The two options are linked and the NCO can only be exercised if the related approved option is exercised (or waived). When the 
awards are exercised, the CSOP options will be exercised first (where a gain is available). Following this the number of shares 
received by an employee through the exercise of the NCO will be reduced by such number of shares as have a value equal to the 
gain on the CSOP shares.

* 

 Restated – see Note 1(b) of the consolidated financial statements for an explanation and analysis of the prior period adjustments made in respect of the profit for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017 
and in respect of other prior periods.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
 
 
 
90

19. Share-based payments (equity settled) continued
The Group’s Plan is an equity-settled share option scheme approved by HMRC. It was established in 2015. Awards are subject 
to performance conditions and require holders to remain employed through the vesting period.

The total credit for the period relating to employee share-based payment plans was £1.6 million (2017: expense £0.5 million), all 
of which related to equity-settled share-based payment transactions. The credit during the period principally related to the reversal 
of prior year charges related to awards granted to senior management who left during the financial period.

The table below summarises the amounts recognised in the consolidated statement of profit and loss and other comprehensive 
income during the period:

IPO LTIP award

– Tranche 1

– Tranche 2

– Tranche 3

2016 LTIP award

– Tranche 1

– Tranche 2

– Tranche 3

2017 LTIP award

2018 LTIP award

In the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018, conditional awards of Ordinary Shares were granted as follows:

14 November 2017

12 April 2018

Total

52 weeks 
ended 30 June
 2018
£’000

52 weeks 
ended 
1 July 2017
£’000

(849)

(411)

(267)

(1,527)

(1)

—

—

(1)

(80)

42

265

41

67

373

34

9

7

50

60

—

(1,566)

483

Nominal cost 
option (“NCO”)

Company share
 option plan (“CSOP”)

548,472

370,000

918,472

164,604

20,689

185,293

Awards under the CSOP are linked to the grant of NCO awards and any value received from the CSOP award reduces the value 
receivable from the NCO award.

The following table illustrates the number and weighted average exercise price ("WAEP") of, and movements in, share options 
granted under the schemes:

NCO

CSOP

Total

2018
 Number of
 shares

2018 
WAEP 
p

2017
 Number of
shares

2017 
WAEP
 p

2018
 Number of
 shares

2018 
WAEP 
p

2017
 Number of
shares

2017 
WAEP
 p

2018
 Number of
 shares

2018 
WAEP 
p

2017
 Number of
shares

Outstanding at the 
beginning of the year

2,661,413

0.1 3,158,913

Lapsed during the year

(2,200,633)

0.1 (1,190,000)

0.1

0.1

247,767

1.92

286,406

(116,249)

1.92

(56,139)

1.92

1.91

2,909,180

0.26 3,445,319

(2,316,882)

0.19 (1,246,139)

Exercised

(29,159)

0.1

—

—

(29,159)

0.10

—

2017 
WAEP
p

0.25

0.18

Outstanding at the end 
of the year

1,350,093

0.1 2,661,413

0.1

316,811

1.76

247,767

1.92

1,666,904

0.42 2,909,180

0.26

The vesting of each award is subject to the attainment of performance conditions. For each award, 70 per cent is based upon an 
adjusted earnings per share (“EPS”) target (Part A) and 30 per cent on a TSR target (Part B). The adjusted EPS is based upon the 
non-GAAP measure as discussed in Note 9 (page 86).

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION CONTINUEDFOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 201891

19. Share-based payments (equity settled) continued
The performance conditions are tested over the performance periods as set out below:

 > the IPO LTIP award tranche 1 has been tested over the period from 1 July 2015 to 30 June 2018 for Part A and 18 March 2015 to 

30 June 2018 for Part B potentially vested in 2018. 37,920 of these awards vested during the period on the termination of contracts 
of the Chief Executive Officer and another Senior Executive. No other awards from tranche 1 have vested and accordingly 274,571 
options outstanding as at 30 June 2018 will lapse during the reporting period to 29 June 2019; 201,765 options under tranches 2 
and 3 remain outstanding at 30 June 2018 and are tested over the periods from 1 July 2016 to 30 June 2019 and from 1 July 2017 to 
30 June 2020 respectively and will vest in equal volumes on the date of announcement of results for the reporting periods ended 
June 2019 and June 2020. At 30 June 2018, 403,530 of these awards remained outstanding;

 > the 2016 LTIP award will be tested in three tranches over three year periods from 1 July 2015 to 30 June 2018 (50 per cent), 1 July 2016 
to 30 June 2019 (25 per cent) and 1 July 2017 to 30 June 2020 (25 per cent) and, to the extent that performance conditions have 
been satisfied, will vest on the later of the announcement of results for each of these reporting periods or the date of the third 
anniversary of the grant of the award. At 30 June 2018, 108,242 of these awards remained outstanding;

 > the 2017 LTIP award will be tested over the period from 1 July 2016 to 30 June 2019 and, to the extent that performance conditions 
have been satisfied, will vest on 19 November 2019, being the third anniversary of the date of the grant of the awards. At 30 June 
2018, 110,000 of these awards remained outstanding; and

 > the 2018 LTIP award will be tested over the period from 1 July 2017 to 30 June 2020 and, to the extent that performance conditions 
have been satisfied, will vest on either 14 November 2020 or 12 April 2021, being the third anniversary of the date of the grant of 
the awards. At 30 June 2018, 1,045,132 of these awards remained outstanding.

Part A – EPS targets
The vesting of Part A of each such award will be dependent on the Group’s EPS performance over the fixed periods listed above. 
No portion of Part A will vest unless the Group’s EPS growth is at least equal to a compound annual growth rate of 7 per cent; 
thereafter the following vesting schedule will apply:

The Company’s EPS compound growth

At least 7% per annum

Extent of vesting of Part A

25%

Between a minimum of 7% per annum and 13% per annum

Pro-rata between 25% and 100%

At least 13% per annum

100%

For the IPO LTIP award, EPS performance will be tested using a pro-forma EPS figure for the period ended 27 June 2015 as a base 
point. Adjusted EPS for such purposes thereafter will be disclosed in due course at the time of vesting in the Remuneration Report.

Part B – TSR targets
The vesting of Part B of each such award will be dependent on the Group’s TSR over the fixed periods listed above relative to the TSR 
of the constituents of the peer group of other UK-listed restaurant and bar sector companies over the same period.

No portion of Part B will vest unless the Group’s TSR performance at least matches the median of the TSR performance within 
the comparator group; thereafter the following vesting schedule will apply:

The Company’s TSR performance against the TSR of the comparator companies

Extent of vesting of Part B

Median

Between median and upper quartile

Upper quartile (or better)

25%

Pro-rata between 25% and 100%

100%

For the IPO LTIP award, the offer price (200 pence) has been used as the base point from which TSR is measured for the Company. 
For subsequent awards, the offer price is to be based on a three-month average prior to the start of the performance period. For all 
awards, the end point offer price is to be based on the average for the last three months of the respective performance period.

Expected volatility has been estimated by considering historical average share price volatility for the Company or similar companies. 
Staff attrition has been assessed based on historical retention rates.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

92

19. Share-based payments (equity settled) continued
Part B – TSR targets continued
The fair value of the share options granted under the scheme which are dependent on TSR performance is estimated at the date 
of grant using the Stochastic model. The fair value of the share options granted under the scheme which are dependent on EPS 
performance is estimated at the date of grant using the Black Scholes model. The following table gives the assumptions for the 
periods ended 30 June 2018 and 1 July 2017:

2018 4
award

2017 3
award

2016 LTIP2

IPO LTIP1

Tranche 1

Tranche 2

Tranche 3

Tranche 1

Tranche 2

Tranche 3

NCO: fair value at  
grant date – EPS

CSOP: fair value at 
grant date – EPS

NCO: fair value at  
grant date – TSR

CSOP: fair value at 
grant date – TSR

NCO: exercise price (p)

CSOP: exercise price (p)

Share price (p)

140

48

87

42

0.1

162

153

187

42

113

40

0.1

179

183

188

30

112

27

0.1

194

194

193

33

159

31

0.1

194

194

182

40

130

35

0.1

194

194

188

41

108

38

0.1

200

200

Expected volatility (%)

57.67

31.00

30.61

30.61

19.59

28.91

193

182

50

113

43

0.1

200

200

28.9

57

119

48

0.1

200

200

20.81

Expected life of options 
(years)

Weighted average 
remaining life

Expected dividend yield (%)

Risk-free rate (%)

1  Granted on 18 March 2015.

2  Granted on 2 November 2015.

3  Granted on 9 November 2016.

3

2

3.24

0.95

5.29

4.29

4.29

4.29

3.29

3.29

3.29

3

2.63

1.05

2

2.64

0.86

2.36

2.64

1.15

2

2.64

0.30

1

2.64

0.65

1.36

2.64

1.00

1

2.64

0.23

4  Granted on 14 November 2017 and 12 April 2018.

20. Financial instruments
The Board has overall responsibility for the determination of the Group’s risk management objectives and policies. The overall 
objective of the Board is to set policies that seek to reduce risk as far as possible without unduly affecting the Group’s 
competitiveness and flexibility.

The Group is exposed to the following financial risks:

 > credit risk;

 > liquidity risk;

 > market risk; and

 > capital risk.

Cash and cash equivalents are held in Pounds Sterling. Trade and other payables are measured at amortised cost.

Credit risk
Credit risk arises from the Group’s cash balances held with counterparties and trade and other receivables. Credit risk is the 
risk of financial loss to the Group if a third party which owes amounts to the Group fails to meet its contractual obligations. 
The Group limits its exposure to credit risk from trade receivables by establishing a maximum payment period of three months 
for corporate customers.

Trade and other receivables are measured at amortised cost. Book values and expected cash flow are reviewed by the Board 
and any impairment is charged to the consolidated statement of comprehensive income in the relevant period. Trade and other 
receivables do not contain any impaired assets.

All cash balances are held with reputable banks and the Board monitors its exposure to counterparty risk on an ongoing basis. 
The Group attempts to mitigate credit risk by assessing financial counterparties.

The Directors are not aware of any factors affecting the recoverability of outstanding balances as at 30 June 2018.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION CONTINUEDFOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 201893

20. Financial instruments continued
Credit risk continued
Given the nature of the Group’s operations, the Directors do not consider the Group’s credit risk, which arises mainly from cash held 
with banks, to be significant. 

The Group’s financial assets are as follows:

Trade and other receivables

Cash and cash equivalents

The ageing of trade receivables at the balance sheet date was:

Not past due

Past due 0–30 days

Past due 31–60 days

More than 60 days

30 June 2018
£’000

2,610

4,025

6,635

30 June 2018
£’000

1,977

113

468

52

2,610

1 July 2017
Restated *
£’000

1,755

3,050

4,805

1 July 2017
£’000

1,373

174

33

175

1,755

The Directors are not aware of any factors affecting the recoverability of outstanding balances as at 30 June 2018.

Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk arises from the Group’s management of working capital. It is the risk that the Group will not be able to meet its future 
obligations as they fall due. The Group’s approach to managing liquidity is to ensure, as far as possible, that it will have sufficient 
liquidity to meet its liabilities when they are due, under both normal and stressed conditions, without incurring unacceptable losses 
or risk damage to the Group’s reputation. 

The Group aims to maintain the level of its cash and cash equivalents at an amount in excess of expected cash outflows on financial 
liabilities over the next 90 days. The Group also monitors the level of expected cash inflows on trade and other trade receivables 
with expected cash outflows on trade and other payables.

The Group performs regular cash flow projections to ensure that it has sufficient cash to meet expected operational expenses. 
The Group has committed lines of credit through a £25 million revolving credit facility in the amount of £25 million provided by 
The Royal Bank of Scotland, of which £15.5 million was drawn at 30 June 2018.

The Group’s financial liabilities are as follows:

Trade payables

Other payables

Revolving credit facility

The maturity analysis of the financial liabilities is as follows:

As at 30 June 2018

Trade and other payables

Revolving credit facility

As at 1 July 2017

Trade and other payables

Revolving credit facility

30 June 2018
£’000

13,636

68

15,500

29,204

>5 years
£’000

—

—

>5 years
£’000

—

—

1 July 2017
£’000

10,935

58

7,500

18,493

Total
£’000

13,704

15,500

Total
£’000

10,993

7,500

<1 year
£’000

13,704

1–5 years
£’000

—

—

15,500

<1 year
£’000

10,993

—

1–5 years
£’000

—

7,500

These liabilities are short term in nature. The liabilities are on an undiscounted basis and not considered materially different.

* 

 Restated – see Note 1(b) of the consolidated financial statements for an explanation and analysis of the prior period adjustments made in respect of the profit for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017 
and in respect of other prior periods.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
 
 
 
94

20. Financial instruments continued
Market risk
Market risk is the risk that changes in market prices, such as interest rates or foreign exchange rates, will affect the Group’s costs. 
The objective of market risk management is to manage and control market risk exposures within acceptable parameters. Market 
interest rate risk arises from the Group’s holding of interest-bearing financial assets and liabilities. 

At 30 June 2018, the Group’s interest-bearing financial assets consisted solely of cash and cash equivalents (see Note 13). The Group 
has interest-bearing financial liabilities as at 30 June 2018, comprising a revolving credit facility of £15.5 million (2017: £7.5 million).

The Group does not enter into derivatives or hedging transactions.

The main risk arising from the Group’s financial instruments is interest rate risk. The Group does not have any exposure to foreign 
currency risk as all the Group’s revenue and costs are in Pound Sterling.

The Board makes ad hoc decisions at its regular meetings as to whether to hold funds in instant access accounts or longer-term 
deposits. All accounts are held with reputable UK banks. These policies, which the Directors consider to be appropriate for the 
current stage of development of the Group’s business, will be kept under review by the Board in future years. If interest rates at 
each period-end reporting date had moved by 5 per cent, the impact on results would not have been significant.

Fair value of financial instruments
The fair value of each category of financial instruments is the same as their carrying value in the Group statement of financial position.

Capital risk
The Group’s capital is made up of share capital and retained earnings.

The objectives when managing capital are:

 > to safeguard the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern, so that it can provide returns for shareholders and benefits 

for other stakeholders; and

 > to provide an adequate return to shareholders by pricing products and services commensurately with the level of risk.

The Group ensures that it has sufficient cash on demand to meet its expected operational expenses, including the servicing 
of any financial obligations. This excludes the potential impact of extreme circumstances which cannot be reasonably predicted.

The capital structure of the Group consists of shareholders’ equity as set out in the consolidated statement of changes in equity. 
All working capital requirements are financed from existing cash resources and a revolving credit facility. There are no externally 
imposed capital requirements. Financing decisions are made by the Board based on forecasts of the expected timing and level 
of capital and operating expenditure required to meet the Group’s commitments and development plans. When monitoring capital 
risk, the Group considers its gearing ratio.

21. Operating leases
At the statement of financial position date the Group has outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments under 
non-cancellable operating leases which are payable as follows:

Land and buildings

Operating lease payments due:

– in less than one year

– in two to five years

– in over five years

Other assets

Within one year

In two to five years

30 June 2018
£’000

1 July 2017
£’000

10,877

46,586

133,421

9,487

37,948

97,145

190,884

144,580

214

127

341

234

212

446

Lease agreements held by the Group have varying terms and renewal rights. While the commercial terms of the lease vary, they 
commonly include either market or index-linked rent reviews. The timing of rent reviews varies on a lease-by-lease basis.

The total future minimum sublease income due under non-cancellable subleases is £1.3 million (2017: £1.2 million).

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION CONTINUEDFOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 2018 
 
 
 
 
95

21. Operating leases continued
The total lease payments recognised in the consolidated statement of profit and loss and other comprehensive income in the 52 weeks 
ended 30 June 2018 were £11.1 million (52 weeks ended 1 July 2017: £10.6 million). The consolidated statement of profit and loss and 
other comprehensive income includes the charge for rent-free periods for both reporting periods. During the year the Group received 
£0.1 million (2017: £0.1 million) rental income under a sub-lease.

There were no capital commitments at 30 June 2018 (1 July 2017: £nil).

22. Dividends

Amounts recognised as distributions to equity holders in the period:

Final dividend for the 52 weeks ended 1 July 2017 of 3.30p (2016: 3.30p)

Interim dividend for the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018 of 1.65p (2017: 1.65p)

Proposed final dividend for the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018 of 3.30p (2017: 3.30p) per share

30 June 2018
£’000

1 July 2017
£’000

1,650

825

2,475

1,650

1,650

825

2,475

1,650

The proposed final dividend is subject to approval by shareholders at the Annual General Meeting (“AGM”) on 26 November 2018 
and has not yet been included as a liability in these financial statements.

23. Related party transactions
(a) Subsidiaries
Transactions between the Company and its subsidiaries, which are related parties, have been eliminated on consolidation and are 
not disclosed in this Note. 

(b) Key management personnel
The compensation of key management personnel (including the Directors) is as follows:

Key management emoluments including social security costs

Awards granted under a long-term incentive plan

Pension contributions to money purchase schemes1

52 weeks ended
30 June 2018
£’000

52 weeks ended
1 July 2017
£’000

1,990

609

81

2,680

1,760

423

159

2,342

1 

Includes salary enhancements made in lieu of pension contributions due to pension caps.

The key management of the Company is considered to be the Directors of the Company and Senior Management as detailed on 
pages 30 to 33, details of their compensation are provided in the Remuneration Report. The Company did not enter into any form 
of loan arrangement with any Director during any of the periods presented.

Following the prior year restatements referred to in Note 1 (b) to the financial statements, the dividends paid by Inventive Service 
Company Limited to Inventive GuaranteeCo. Limited (both subsidiaries of the Group) in both the year ended 28 June 2015 and 
30 June 2016 became unlawful due to insufficient reserves in Inventive Services Company Limited to fund the distribution. In the 
current financial year Inventive Service Company Limited had sufficient distributable reserves to declare a dividend. The Board will 
consider the matter as part of the next AGM of these Companies.

24. Subsequent events
On 28 September 2018 the Group’s revolving credit facility was reviewed in light of the trading results in the second half of the 
financial year and in the post-year-end period. The facility was reconfirmed at £25 million and for the period to December 2021. 
The financial covenants associated with the facility were revised to reflect recent trading results. An additional fee of £62,500 was 
incurred in relation to this, which will be charged to the profit and loss account over the period from October 2018 to December 2021. 
There were no other changes to the terms of the facility, including interest margin.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
 
 
 
96

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COMPANY STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
AT 30 JUNE 2018

Assets

Non-current assets

Investments

Current assets

Trade and other receivables

Total assets

Net assets

Equity attributable to equity holders of the Parent

Share capital

Merger reserve

Retained earnings

Total equity

Note

30 June 2018
£’000

1 July 2017
£’000

5

6

7

29,650

29,650

185

29,835

29,835

50

11,645

18,140

29,835

1,751

31,401

31,401

50

11,645

19,706

31,401

The Company made a profit after tax of £2.5 million in the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018 (2017: £2.5 million) relating entirely to the 
dividends received from a subsidiary of the Company in the period.

Signed on behalf of the Board on 2 October 2018.

Mike Foster
Director

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COMPANY STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 2018

At 3 July 2016

Total comprehensive income for the period

Credit arising from long-term incentive plans

Dividend paid

At 1 July 2017

Total comprehensive income for the period

Charge arising from long-term incentive plans

Dividend paid

At 30 June 2018

Share capital
£’000

50

—

—

—

50

—

—

—

50

Reserves

Merger
reserve
£’000

11,645

—

—

—

11,645

—

—

—

11,645

Retained
earnings
£’000

19,223

2,475

483

(2,475)

19,706

2,475

(1,566)

(2,475)

18,140

97

Total
 equity
£’000

30,918

2,475

483

(2,475)

31,401

2,475

(1,566)

(2,475)

29,835

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

98

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COMPANY STATEMENT OF CASH FLOW
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 2018

Cash flow from operating activities

Profit before tax

Adjustments for:

Dividends paid

Decrease/(increase) in trade and other receivables

(Credit)/charge arising from long-term incentive plans

Net cash flow generated from operating activities

Cash flow from investing activities

Dividends received from subsidiary company

Net cash flow generated from investing activities

Cash flow from financing activities

Equity dividends paid

Net cash flow used in financing activities

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

Opening cash and cash equivalents

Closing cash and cash equivalents

52 weeks ended 
30 June 2018
£’000

52 weeks ended
1 July 2017
£’000

2,475

2,475

(2,475)

1,566

(1,566)

—

2,475

2,475

(2,475)

(2,475)

—

—

—

(2,475)

(483)

483

—

2,475

2,475

(2,475)

(2,475)

—

—

—

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
 
 
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTES TO THE COMPANY FINANCIAL INFORMATION
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 2018

99

1. Accounting policies
Statement of compliance
The Company’s financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) 
as adopted by the EU, as they apply to the financial statements of the Group, for the 52 weeks ended 30 June 2018 (prior period 
52 weeks ended 1 July 2017) and in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act 2006.

Basis of preparation
The Company financial statements have been prepared in accordance with those parts of the Companies Act 2006 applicable to 
companies reporting under IFRS as adopted by the EU. They are presented in Pounds Sterling, with values rounded to the nearest 
hundred thousand, except where otherwise indicated.

Non-derivative financial instruments
Non-derivative financial instruments comprise investments in equity and debt securities, trade and other receivables, cash and 
cash equivalents, loans and borrowings and trade and other payables.

Trade and other receivables
Trade and other receivables are recognised initially at fair value. Subsequent to initial recognition they are measured at amortised 
cost using the effective interest method, less any impairment losses.

Trade and other payables
Trade and other payables are recognised initially at fair value. Subsequent to initial recognition they are measured at amortised cost 
using the effective interest method.

Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash balances and cash held at bank. Bank overdrafts that are repayable on demand and form 
an integral part of the Group’s cash management are included as a component of cash and cash equivalents for the purpose only of 
the cash flow statement.

Interest-bearing borrowings
Interest-bearing borrowings are recognised initially at fair value less attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, 
interest-bearing borrowings are stated at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Share-based payments (long-term incentive plans)
The Group issues equity-settled share-based payments to certain employees. Equity-settled share-based payments are measured at 
fair value at the date of grant. The fair value determined at the grant date of the equity-settled share-based payments is expensed on 
a straight line basis over the vesting period, based on the Group’s estimate of shares that will eventually vest. This is recognised as 
an employee expense with a corresponding increase in equity. Fair value is measured by the Monte Carlo model for options subject 
to market-based performance conditions and by use of a Black Scholes model for all others. 

Investments in subsidiary undertakings 
A subsidiary is an entity controlled, either directly or indirectly, by the Company, where control is the power to govern the financial 
and operating policies of the entity so as to obtain benefit from its activities. Investments in subsidiaries represent interests in 
subsidiaries that are directly owned by the Company and are stated at cost less any provision for permanent diminution in value.

Share capital
Ordinary Shares are classified as equity. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of Ordinary Shares are recognised 
as a deduction from equity, net of any tax effects.

Dividends
Dividends receivable from the Company’s subsidiaries and joint venture investments are recognised only when they are approved 
or paid by shareholders. 

Dividend distributions to the Company’s shareholders are recognised in the period in which the dividends are paid, and, for the final 
dividend, when approved by the Company’s shareholders at the AGM.

Taxation
Tax on the profit or loss for the period comprises current and deferred tax. Tax is recognised in the consolidated statement of profit 
and loss and other comprehensive income except to the extent that it relates to items recognised directly in equity, in which case 
it is recognised in equity.

Current tax is the expected tax payable or receivable on the taxable income or loss for the period, using tax rates enacted or 
substantively enacted at the statement of financial position date, and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous periods.

Deferred tax is provided on temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting 
purposes and the amounts used for taxation purposes. The following temporary differences are not provided for: the initial recognition 
of goodwill; the initial recognition of assets or liabilities that affect neither accounting nor taxable profit other than in a business 
combination; and differences relating to investments in subsidiaries to the extent that they will probably not reverse in the foreseeable 
future. The amount of deferred tax provided is based on the expected manner of realisation or settlement of the carrying amount 
of assets and liabilities using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the statement of financial position date.

A deferred tax asset is recognised only to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which 
the temporary difference can be utilised.

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

100

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTES TO THE COMPANY FINANCIAL INFORMATION CONTINUED
FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED 30 JUNE 2018

2. Profit for the period
No profit or loss account is presented for the Company as permitted by section 408 of the Companies Act 2006. The profit after tax 
for the period was £2,475,000 (2017: £2,475,000). 

3. Auditor’s remuneration
Auditor’s remuneration in respect of the Company audit was £500 (2017: £500). 

4. Directors’ remuneration and employee costs
Details of Directors’ remuneration in respect of services delivered to the Group are contained in the Directors’ Remuneration Report on 
pages 38 to 58. The remuneration received by the Directors in respect of directly attributable services to this Company is 
inconsequential in the context of the remuneration figure. The Company has no employees other than the Directors and the Directors are 
not remunerated through this Company other than issues of share-based payments as described in Note 1 to the Company financial 
statements. 

5. Investments
Investments in the Company’s statement of financial position consist of its investments in subsidiary undertakings. 

The Company’s investment in its subsidiary undertakings is as follows:

At cost and net book value:

At the beginning of the period

Investment in subsidiary

At the end of the period

30 June 2018
£’000

29,650

—

1 July 2017
£’000

29,650

—

29,650

29,650

As at 30 June 2018 and 1 July 2017, the Company owned 100 per cent of the Ordinary Share capital of the following UK companies:
Status
Company name

Country of incorporation 

Class of shares

Holding

Inventive GuaranteeCo Limited1

Revolution Bars Limited1

Revolucion de Cuba Limited1

Inventive Service Company Limited1

Inventive Leisure Limited1

Rev Bars Limited1

Inventive Leisure (Services) Limited1

New Inventive Bar Company Limited1

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

100% Holding company 2

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

Trading 3

Trading 3

Trading 3

Dormant 3

Dormant 3

Dormant 3

Dormant 3

1  The registered address of each company is 21 Old Street, Ashton-under-Lyne, Tameside OL6 6LA.

2  Direct holding.

3  Indirect holding.

6. Trade and other receivables

Amounts owed from subsidiary undertakings

Amounts owed from subsidiary undertakings are unsecured, interest free and repayable on demand.

7. Share capital

Allotted, called up and fully paid

50,029,159 £0.001 Ordinary Shares (2017: 50,000,000 £0.001 Ordinary Shares)

30 June 2018
£’000

1 July 2017
£’000

185

185

1,751

1,751

30 June 2018
£’000

1 July 2017
£’000

50

50

50

50

Revolution Bars Group plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
CORPORATE INFORMATION

Revolution Bars Group plc
Registered number 08838504

Registered address 
21 Old Street 
Ashton-under-Lyne 
Tameside 
OL6 6LA

Broker
Numis Securities Ltd
The London Stock Exchange 
10 Paternoster Square 
London 
EC4M 7LT

Registrar
Link Asset Services
71 Victoria Street 
London 
SW1H 0XA

Financial PR
Instinctif Partners
65 Gresham St 
London 
EC2V 7NQ

Independent auditor
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
1 Hardman Square 
Spinningfields 
Manchester 
M3 3EB

Tax advisers
Grant Thornton UK LLP
4 Hardman Square 
Spinningfields 
Manchester 
M3 3EB

Legal advisers (corporate)
Macfarlanes LLP
20 Cursitor St 
London 
EC4A 1LT

Legal advisers (property)
Shoosmiths
Hardman Street 
Spinningfields 
3 Hardman St 
Manchester 
M3 3HF

Legal advisers (licensing)
Kuits
3 St Mary’s Parsonage 
Manchester 
M3 2RD

DISCOVER...
MORE ONLINE

WWW.REVOLUTIONBARSGROUP.COM

WWW.REVOLUTION-BARS.CO.UK

WWW.REVOLUCIONDECUBA.COM

R

e

v

o

l

u

t

i

o

n

B

a

r

s

G

r

o

u

p

p

l

c

A

n

n

u

a

l

R

e

p

o

r

t

a

n

d

A

c

c

o

u

n

t

s

2

0

1

8

Revolution Bars Group plc
21 Old Street 
Ashton-under-Lyne 
Tameside 
OL6 6LA