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Young & Co.'s Brewery plc

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FY2019 Annual Report · Young & Co.'s Brewery plc
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Adam and Eve Albert Albion Alexander Pope Alexandra Alma Alphabet Angel and Greyhound Bear Bear Inn Beaufort Bell Bell 
Adam and Eve Albert Albion Alexander Pope Alexandra Alma Alphabet Angel and Greyhound Bear Bear Inn Beaufort Bell Bell 
Hotel Betjeman Arms Bickley Bishop Blue Boar Boathouse Brewers Inn Bridge Hotel Britannia Brook Green Hotel Buckingham 
Hotel Betjeman Arms Bickley Bishop Blue Boar Boathouse Brewers Inn Bridge Hotel Britannia Brook Green Hotel Buckingham 
Arms Builders Arms Bull Bull and Gate Bulls Head Bunch of Grapes Candlemaker Canonbury Carnarvon Arms Castle Chelsea 
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Ram Chequers Cherry Tree City Gate Clarence Clockhouse Coach and Horses Coat and Badge Coborn Cock Tavern Coopers 
Ram Chequers Cherry Tree City Gate Clarence Clockhouse Coach and Horses Coat and Badge Coborn Cock Tavern Coopers 
Arms County Arms Cow Crooked Billet Crown Crown and Anchor Crown Hotel Curtains Up Cutty Sark Defectors Weld Depot 
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Devonshire Dial Arch Dirty Dicks Dog and Fox Dolphin Double Locks Duchess of Kent Duke of Cambridge Duke of Clarence Duke 
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of Wellington Duke on the Green  Duke’s Head Dunstan House Inn Eagle Elgin Fellow Fentiman Arms Finch’s Fire Stables Flask 
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Foley Founder’s Arms Fox and Anchor Grange Green Man Greyhound Grocer Grove Guard House Guinea Half Moon Halfway 
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House Hammersmith Ram Hand and Spear Hand in Hand Hare and Hounds Highbury Vaults Hollywood Arms Home Cottage 
House Hammersmith Ram Hand and Spear Hand in Hand Hare and Hounds Highbury Vaults Hollywood Arms Home Cottage 
Hope and Anchor Horts John Salt Kings Arms Kings Head King’s Head Lamb Lamb Tavern Lass O’Richmond Hill Leather Bottle 
Hope and Anchor Horts John Salt Kings Arms Kings Head King’s Head Lamb Lamb Tavern Lass O’Richmond Hill Leather Bottle 
Leman  Street  Tavern  Lion  and  Unicorn  Lock  Keeper  Lockhouse  Lord  Palmerston  Manor  Arms  Marlborough  Marquess  of 
Leman  Street  Tavern  Lion  and  Unicorn  Lock  Keeper  Lockhouse  Lord  Palmerston  Manor  Arms  Marlborough  Marquess  of 
Anglesey  Mitre  Morpeth  Arms  Mulberry  Bush  Narrowboat  Naturalist  New  Inn  Nightingale  Nine  Elms  Tavern  Northcote  Old 
Anglesey  Mitre  Morpeth  Arms  Mulberry  Bush  Narrowboat  Naturalist  New  Inn  Nightingale  Nine  Elms  Tavern  Northcote  Old 
Brewery Old Manor Old Shades Old Ship One Tun Orange Tree Owl and Pussycat Oyster Shed Park Hotel Paternoster Penny 
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Black Phoenix Plantation Plough Porchester  Prince Albert Prince Alfred Princess of Wales Queen Adelaide Queen’s Red Barn Red 
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Lion  Richard  the  First  Riverside  Riverstation  Roebuck  Rose  and  Crown  Seagate  Hotel  Shaftesbury  Ship  Smiths  of  Smithfield 
Spotted Horse Spread Eagle Spring Grove Station Hotel Station Tavern Surprise Swan Theodore BullfrogTrafalgar Arms Trinity 
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Arms  Grapes  Grey  Horse  Greyhound  Grove  House  Heartbreakers  Hope  Horse  Pond  Inn  Jolly  Gardeners  Lord  Nelson  Lord 
Wargrave  Malt  Shovel  Marquess  Tavern  New  Inn  O’Connors  Old  House  Old  Inn  Old  Sergeant  People’s  Park  Tavern  Pig  and 
Wargrave  Malt  Shovel  Marquess  Tavern  New  Inn  O’Connors  Old  House  Old  Inn  Old  Sergeant  People’s  Park  Tavern  Pig  and 
Whistle  Plough  Inn  Prince  William  Henry  Queens  Arms  Railway  Bell  Railway  Telegraph  Rattlebone  Inn  Red  Cow  Rising  Sun 
Whistle  Plough  Inn  Prince  William  Henry  Queens  Arms  Railway  Bell  Railway  Telegraph  Rattlebone  Inn  Red  Cow  Rising  Sun 
Riverside Inn Robin Hood Rope Walk Rose & Crown Royal George Royal Oak Ship Ship Inn Spread Eagle Square Tavern Surprise 
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Sussex Brewery Swan Inn Thatched House Three Lords Two Doves Unicorn Hotel Waggon & Horses Watermans Arms White Hart
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A N N U A L   R E P O R T

F O R  T H E  5 2  W E E K S  E N D E D  1  A P R I L  2 019

Contents

STRATEGIC REPORT

Chairman’s statement 

Our strategy and business model 

Chief executive’s review 

How we performed 

Principal risks and uncertainties 

Business and financial review 

Corporate social responsibility 

DIRECTORS’ REPORT

Our board 

Other disclosures 

Preparation and disclaimer 

Corporate governance report 

3

  4

  5

 7

8

10

18

20

22

23

24

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Independent auditor’s report 

Group income statement 

39

44

Group statement of comprehensive income 

 45

Balance sheets 

Statements of cash flow 

Group statement of changes in equity 

Parent company statement of changes  
in equity 

Notes to the financial statements 

Five year review 

SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION

Notice of meeting 

Explanatory notes to the notice of meeting 

Pubs and hotels (map) 

Senior personnel, committees,  
advisers and others 

Shareholder information 

46

47

48

49

50

80

81

85

86

88

88

View our Annual Report 2019 on our website:
www.youngs.co.uk/investors

Financial highlights

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

2019 
£m 

2018 
£m 

%

CHANGE

Revenue 

303.7 

279.3 

Adjusted operating profit(1) 

Operating profit 

Adjusted profit before tax(1) 

Profit before tax 

Net cash generated from operations 

48.5 

44.6 

43.4 

39.5 

69.2 

+8.7

+3.4

+2.5

+5.9

+5.1

46.9 

43.5 

41.0 

37.6 

61.4 

+12.7

Adjusted basic earnings per share(1) 

72.13p 

67.74p 

Basic earnings per share 

64.36p 

61.60p 

+6.5

+4.5

Dividend per share 
(interim and recommended final)

20.78p 

19.61p 

+6.0 

Net assets per share(2) 

£12.12 

£11.24 

+7.8

All of the results above are from continuing operations.

(1) Reference to an “adjusted” item means that item has been adjusted to exclude exceptional items (see notes 9 and 10).

(2) Net assets per share are the group’s net assets divided by the shares in issue at the period end.

In this report, unless the context otherwise requires, reference to “the company” or to “Young’s” is to Young & Co.’s Brewery, 
P.L.C., and reference to the “group” is to the group of companies of which Young’s is the parent company.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019

1

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2

Chairman’s statement

Stephen Goodyear, Chairman

It has been another highly 
successful period of trading 
which included the fantastic 
early summer weather 
and was capped off with 
Young’s making its most 
significant acquisition since 
2010, with the purchase of 
the Redcomb group and its 
15 pubs in January 2019. 

+8.7%
Revenue

£67.1
million
invested

22nd

consecutive 
increase of 
dividend

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Brexit-related uncertainty and the current 
impasse in Parliament continues to 
remain an issue for the entire economy, 
although we are yet to see any material 
impact on our business. Longer term, 
we believe that whatever the outcome 
of Brexit, London, home to the majority 
of our pubs, will continue to thrive as a 
major cosmopolitan city. 

We have a proven and winning strategy of 
maintaining and operating a differentiated, 
premium and well-invested pub estate, 
focussed on London and Southern 
England. Hospitality is at the heart of our 
economy and we continue to believe in 
the individuality and the power of each 
Young’s pub, often at the heart of their 
communities. Our record level of adjusted 
EBITDA is testament to this proven 
formula of owning and managing pubs 
that our customers continue to frequent 
and enjoy. Elsewhere we continue to 
invest in our people and technology, 
recognising how integral they are to our 
long-term success. 

On the back of another good set 
of results, the board is delighted to 
recommend our 22nd consecutive annual 
dividend increase, this time by 6.0% 
again, to 10.81 pence. If approved by 
shareholders, this will result in a total 
dividend for the year of 20.78 pence 
(2018: 19.61 pence) and it is expected to 
be paid on 11 July 2019 to shareholders 
on the register at the close of business  
on 7 June 2019.

Finally, following an extensive search, 
we are delighted that Mike Owen will 
be joining the Young’s team as Chief 
Financial Officer in September. With over 
10 years’ experience in the drinks and 
pub sector, Mike comes with an intimate 
knowledge of the industry and will bring 
a fresh perspective to the finance function. 
I would like to take this opportunity to 
thank Steve Robinson for his contribution 
to Young’s over the past 9 years, and 
more recently Daniel Quint for the 
dedication he has shown in his role as 
interim CFO. We wish them both well  
for the future.

Stephen Goodyear
Chairman
22 May 2019

In total, group revenue was up 8.7% 
to £303.7 million, underpinned by our 
strong managed house like-for-like sales 
growth of 5.1%. Our well-invested and 
premium managed houses were well 
placed to capitalise on the key trading 
periods of the year. The Ram Pub 
Company has also had a highly successful 
year, with like-for-like sales growth  
of 5.0%.

The ongoing margin pressures facing the 
industry are well documented and we are 
not immune to these; however, our strong 
EBITDA margin performance of 24.0% 
remains one of the highest in the sector. 
The year saw us achieve record adjusted 
EBITDA of £72.8 million (2018: £68.7 
million), an increase of 6.0%. Adjusted 
basic earnings per share increased by 
6.5% and at the year-end stood at 72.13 
pence per share; on an unadjusted basis, 
basic earnings per share were at 64.36 
pence per share.

A core characteristic of Young’s success 
in recent years has been the consistent 
investment for future growth through 
a combination of acquisitions and 
investment in our estate which is made 
possible by our strong cash generation. 
In the year, we invested a total of £67.1 
million; this included the acquisition of the 
15 Redcomb pubs, as well as two further 
standalone managed pubs. With one eye 
on our future pipeline we also acquired 
the People’s Park Tavern (Hackney), a tied 
freehold pub now within our tenanted 
estate, and the freehold of a Lloyds Bank 
site in Farnham. Following another year of 
increased investment, encouragingly the 
business remains conservatively financed 
with net debt of £163.6 million (2018: 
£140.5 million), being 2.2 times adjusted 
EBITDA (2018: 2.0 times).  

We have made two improvements to our 
financing arrangements. First, we used the 
£25 million accordion within our revolving 
credit facility, extending our long-term 
borrowing capacity to £200 million. 
Secondly, following the end of the financial 
year, we secured additional long-term debt 
financing through a private placement; 
this will see us raise £35 million in July 
2019 at a fixed interest rate of 3.30% for 
20 years. This secured financing provides 
us with additional financial headroom at 
enhanced long-term rates and allows us 
to refinance part of the group’s bank debt 
whilst continuing to invest in the business 
and make further acquisitions. 

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019

3

 
 
 
Our strategy and business model

Our Strategy –  
How we grow

We look to grow through a combination of investing in our 
existing pub estate, opportunity-led acquisitions and our people. 

Each year, on average, we reinvest about two thirds of the 
cash we generate. Much goes back into our existing estate in 
the form of transformational developments and maintenance 
to the high standard our customers expect. In carrying out 
developments, we look to improve current trading area 
efficiencies and increase each pub’s trading space; the latter can 
see upper parts converted into accommodation, function rooms 
and roof top bars; basements become cocktail bars and outdoor 
spaces turned into beautiful gardens with Burger Shacks.

Risk link

 9

10

We also invest in hand-picked acquisitions, based in 
locations where we feel our style of operation will thrive, 
as well as benefitting the surrounding area. All acquisitions 
have to pass our strict internal investment criteria. Through 
our experience and expertise, we assess what we believe an 
acquisition can realistically achieve; what it may currently be 
doing is often less relevant. 

Risk link 

 5

 9

We believe in investing in our people, nurturing our own 
talent, so they are able to continue to grow our businesses by 
surprising and delighting our customers. 

Our individually-tailored development programmes allow 
people at every level in our business to explore opportunities 
and we encourage the entrepreneurial spirit that has 
ensured our place as industry leaders. Entrepreneurs can 
be a rare commodity in the hospitality industry and getting 
the right fit for both parties can be a challenge as well as 
time consuming and expensive.  Promoting our internally-
developed talent pool therefore ensures our future leaders 
know who we are and what we stand for, giving us and our 
teams a head start in growing our business and increasing 
our productivity.

Risk link

 9

11

The risk links reference to Principal risks and 
uncertainties on pages 8 and 9.

4

Our Business Model –  
How we create value 

We run a predominantly freehold estate and we intend to 
keep it that way. We believe freehold assets give us greater 
control and opportunities within our business, whether this is, 
for example, insulating us against potential rent increases or 
providing us with greater freedom to do up and improve our 
pubs. A predominantly freehold backed estate also enables 
us to negotiate better terms with lenders, whilst allowing us to 
also benefit from increases in property values. 

Risk link

 5

 9

10

Within our managed segment, we operate differentiated, 
premium, mostly drink-led pubs in London and Southern 
England. Our locations are mainly in areas that have a 
high proportion of affluent and discerning customers 
derived through a mixture of residential, leisure and work 
where our premium product offerings is greater suited. 

Risk link

 1

 6

Our revenue mix is 66.4% drink, 29.0% food and 4.6% 
accommodation. Although food is an important part of our 
offer, we run pubs, not restaurants, which can be more labour 
intensive. Our drink-led offer is supported by our locations which 
are often within walking distances of public transport links. 

Risk link

 1

 6

 8

We also run a small quality tenanted estate which extends 
our reach into other geographical areas. Our tenanted 
estate allows us to work in partnership with engaging 
entrepreneurs to run sustainable businesses. Tenanted 
pubs are less labour intensive than managed houses, 
increase our buying power with suppliers and are cash 
generative. They also allow us to acquire freehold pubs 
with tenants in situ that we can service through our 
tenanted operation and, when the time is right for both 
parties, transfer these pubs into our managed estate.

Risk link

 1

We use the combined buying power of our managed and 
tenanted estates to source the best products for the best prices 
from a small number of suppliers – we buy predominately 
British produce, supporting the local communities we operate 
in. Although the suppliers we use stretch across the estate, our 
general managers are given the freedom and flexibility within 
guidelines to run the pubs to best fit and contribute to the 
communities in which they reside. This individuality is supported 
by the uniqueness of the pub designs which don’t follow a 
particular format or concept but have a welcoming, cosy theme 
to offer our customers that home-away-from-home feel.

Risk link

 2

 6

 11

Chief executive’s review

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Patrick Dardis, Chief Executive

I am delighted to announce 
another strong set of results, 
driven by our well-invested, 
premium managed house 
estate that continues to 
operate at the highest 
standards in the industry. 

+5.1%

Like-for-like 
revenue

269

pubs

Adjusted  
profit before tax 

£43.4 
million

Our riverside locations, beautiful gardens 
and growing number of roof terraces 
meant the business was well placed to 
take advantage of the fabulous summer 
weather and the performance of the 
England football team at the FIFA World 
Cup. The Christmas trading period was 
also very strong, with Young’s pubs 
packed full of seasonal cheer  
and merriment. 

Total revenue was up 8.7% to £303.7 
million, yet again underpinned by our 
managed house like-for-like performance, 
enhanced by complementary, eye-
catching acquisitions. Through strong 
conversion, profit before tax was up 5.1% 
to £39.5 million or up 5.9% to £43.4 
million once adjusted for exceptional items.

Group operating margins of 16.0% 
were maintained once again at a high 
level for the industry, albeit slightly lower 
than last year (2018: 16.8%). This reflects 
a significant amount of investment 
over the past 18 months for long-term 
growth, both in our existing estate and 
acquisitions, including the recently added 
Redcomb pubs, as well as the external 
cost pressures facing the industry.

Established, expanding  
and consistent
The main driver of the group 
performance was our managed house 
division, which now makes up 95.6% of 
turnover, where like-for-like sales in the 
period were up 5.1%. This represents 
the eighth consecutive year of increases 
over 4.2% and is a great indicator 
of our strength and resilience over a 
sustained period of time. Our strong 
results are a testament to the quality of 
our incredible people who bring our 
premium pubs to life and demonstrate 
that our strategy continues to deliver.

In January we acquired 15 pubs through 
our purchase of the Redcomb pub 
group. They complement the existing 
Young’s managed house estate both 
in and around London, as well as build 
on a growing presence in the South 
West. Each of the pubs has a premium 
offering and distinct personality that 
differentiates it in its local market. 
All with individual qualities, the pubs 
possess tremendous opportunities for 
future growth through expanding the 
trading space, improved operational 
excellence and by introducing the 
unique Young’s style.

We acquired three more pubs during 
the year. Through our ongoing 
partnership with Berkeley Homes we 
opened the Naturalist (Hackney), a 
long leasehold, along with two freehold 
purchases: the Plantation (Poole), 
which also contributed to our growing 
bedroom stock with ten bedrooms, 
and the People’s Park Tavern, which 
will be ‘warehoused’ in the Ram Pub 
Company and in the future provides 
a fantastic opportunity for a managed 
pub. Following these investments, our 
total pub count at the end of the year 
stood at 269, split with 199 of those as 
managed houses and the remaining 
70 operating under the Ram Pub 
Company. At the same time, we have 
increased our managed room stock by 
88, or 15.2%, to 668 rooms.

Within the existing estate, we have also 
made significant investment. The two 
hotels acquired at the end of the last 
financial year, the Park (Teddington) 
and the Bridge (Chertsey), have both 
recently completed transformational 
refurbishments to their pub offer, 
bringing them in line with the Young’s 
standard. We also started on site at 

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019

5

 
 
 
Chief executive’s review

Continued

the Dog & Fox (Wimbledon Village) 
where work has begun on adding 
11 new hotel rooms and a dedicated 
function space, and close to my heart, 
in March we re-opened the Hand in 
Hand (Wimbledon Village), the pub 
where I pulled my first pint. Amongst 
many others, these great projects will 
make significant contributions in the 
year ahead.

Strong performance in a 
challenging environment  
The current economic and political 
climate remains a challenge, and with 
each year the costs to our business 
increase; I am delighted, despite this, 
that the Young’s team has delivered 
these results. Total adjusted operating 
profits are at a record high of £48.5 
million, up by 3.4%, with an operating 
margin for the year of 16.0%. In the 
last year our managed and tenanted 
businesses both performed strongly and 
we have once again delivered results at 
the forefront of the industry.  

In our pubs it is our general managers 
and their teams who deliver premium 
value for our customers. They are 
some of the very best people in the 
industry and really understand how 
to run differentiated pubs within a 

6

supportive framework. Forever the 
face of our business, we are constantly 
looking to increase the amount of time 
they spend coaching their teams and 
focussing on our customers. Managers 
in offices don’t grow profitable sales; it’s 
managers interacting with customers, 
working on the atmosphere and the 
quality of our offer, ensuring we deliver 
outstanding service who do.

Investment in technology   
To match the investment in our pubs 
we are continually upgrading our 
technology to improve our offer and 
productivity. Following last year’s 
successful roll out of our new till 
software across the estate, we have 
gained a greater understanding of 
what our customers want. We have 
re-launched our app, “Young’s On Tap”, 
which included new bar tab features to 
add to the experience of a Young’s pub. 
Online, our websites play an important 
role in the customer journey and we 
have made significant developments 
enhancing their functionality and 
improving the interaction with our 
customers. We have seen an increase in 
organic traffic, reached new customers 
and improved booking conversions 
through the new concierge style events 

functionality. We will continue to evolve 
our digital offer to ensure we are serving 
our customers most effectively. 

Outlook
We have welcomed a warm Easter 
and Varsity Boat Race, both falling in 
April this year, as we were up against 
a very positive start to last year when 
temperatures during April and the early 
May Bank Holiday reached 30 degrees. 
For the last thirteen weeks our total 
sales were up 9.4%, and like-for-like 
sales were up 2.6% reflecting the  
tough comparatives.

The two new hotels added last year, 
the Park and the Bridge, are open 
and trading strongly following their 
recent investment. We will be investing 
in a number of the newly acquired 
Redcomb pubs over the course of the 
year, although the focus for now is on 
ensuring a smooth operational transition.  

Since the year-end we have opened  
the Depot (Kidbrooke Village) which  
is a roaring success with the locals, 
another pub as part of our successful 
partnership with Berkeley Homes. 
In April, we transferred the New Inn 
(Ealing) from the Ram Pub Company 
into the managed house division; the 
true benefit of this will come later in the 
year following a planned refurbishment.  

Looking ahead, the amazing weather 
throughout the summer of 2018 and 
England’s World Cup success sets a high 
benchmark. It has been a busy period 
of acquisitions and investment in our 
estate, and we are excited about the 
opportunities to unlock that potential.

Patrick Dardis
Chief Executive
22 May 2019

How we performed

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

We measure the development, performance and position of our business against a number of key indicators.  
The reference to an “adjusted” item means that item has been adjusted to exclude exceptional items. These 
alternative performance measures have been provided to help investors assess the group’s underlying performance.

Revenue £m 
This is our total group revenue, 
including both managed and 
tenanted businesses.

303.7

279.3

268.9

Like-for-like revenue % 
This is our revenue growth for this 
period compared with the previous 
period for our managed pubs and 
hotels that traded throughout  
both periods.

Like-for-like RevPAR £ 
This is our like-for-like revenue per 
available bedroom; it is the average 
room rate achieved multiplied by 
the occupancy percentage.

4.7

4.2

5.1

6

5

4

3

2

1

0

68

66

64

62

60

58

56

66.39

63.15

60.86

2017

2018

2019

2017

2018

2019

2017

2018

2019

Adjusted EBITDA £m 
This is our earnings before interest, 
taxes, depreciation and amortisation 
adjusted to exclude any exceptional 
items for the group. (See notes 9  
and 10).

Adjusted profit before tax £m 
This is our profit before tax on 
continuing operations only, adjusted 
to exclude any exceptional items for 
the group. (See notes 9 and 10).

Adjusted earnings per share (pence) 
This is our adjusted profit before tax, 
but after tax has been deducted, 
divided by the weighted average 
number of ordinary shares in issue. 
(See notes 9 and 15).

72.8

68.7

66.5

45

40

35

30

25

20

15

40.4

41.0

43.4

74

72

70

68

66

64

62

72.13

67.74

66.43

2017

2018

2019

2017

2018

2019

2017

2018

2019

Gearing % 
This is our net debt divided by our net 
assets (expressed as a percentage).

Interest cover (times) 
This is our adjusted operating profit 
divided by our finance costs.

Recycling (tonnes)
This is the amount of waste we recycle
and divert from landfill.

25.7

25.6

27.6

10

9

8

7

6

5

4

9.7

8,000

7,000

7,403

8.4

8.4

6,000

6,768

6,830

5,000

4,000

2017

2018

2019

2017

2018

2019

2017

2018

2019

320

300

280

260

240

220

200

74

72

70

68

66

64

62

50

40

30

20

10

0

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019

7

 
 
 
Principal risks and uncertainties

The principal risks and uncertainties facing the group are listed below. It is not an exhaustive list of all significant risks 
and uncertainties; some may currently be unknown and others currently regarded as immaterial could turn out to be 
material. Further information on the group’s financial risk management objectives and policies are set out in note 22 
starting on page 68.

RISK/UNCERTAINTY

POTENTIAL IMPACT

MITIGATION

CHANGE 

IN RISK/ 

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A reduction in our 
revenue could lead to 
lower profits.

1.  Our revenue is largely dependent on 

consumer spending within our managed 
estate. A consumer’s decision to spend 
their money can be affected by a broad 
range of matters (including confidence 
in the economy, the weather, fears of 
terrorist activity and greater awareness of 
the potential adverse health consequences 
associated with alcohol), all set against a 
background of an ever-increasing choice 
of where to go and what to do.

A reduction in our revenue 
and/or an increase in our 
costs will have an impact 
on our margins and could 
result in lower profits.

Our pubs and hotels are mainly spread 
throughout London and Southern England, 
with the majority inside the M25. Through 
them, we provide a hospitable and 
welcoming home from home, often at the 
heart of the local community. They benefit 
from customer-focussed designs, high service 
standards, quality food and market-leading 
drinks (including non-alcoholic options), all of 
which matter to the discerning consumer. By 
having a mix of excellent riverside, garden 
and city pubs and hotels, we seek to address 
the impact of seasonality and changes in 
consumers’ spending habits.

Fixed-price arrangements are in place with some 
of our food and drink suppliers. Regarding 
utilities, we continually look at ways of reducing 
our levels of consumption; we also regularly 
review our energy needs and price changes in 
the market, and, where appropriate, we make 
forward purchases.

Increased wages may result in consumers having 
greater capacity to absorb increased prices, but 
any shortfall will need to be mitigated through 
greater labour and other efficiency gains.

2.  Various factors may result in the amount 
we pay for our key supplies (including 
food, drink, gas and electricity) and labour 
being increased. Following on from the 
Government’s introduction of the National 
Living Wage, the hourly rate was increased 
to £8.21 (from £7.83) with effect from 1 
April 2019, with annual stepped increases, 
announced each year, to follow. Increased 
costs could potentially make our offer less 
attractive to consumers if they are passed 
on. See also 11 below.

3.  The pub industry is subject to a variety 
of taxes, including business taxes, duty 
on alcoholic drinks and business rates.

4.  We operate a defined benefit pension 

scheme, the Young & Co.’s Brewery, P.L.C. 
Pension Scheme, that has to be funded 
to meet agreed benefit payments. The 
value of the scheme can be impacted by 
a variety of factors, including changes in 
life expectancy assumptions, lower than 
anticipated performances of the stock 
market and reduced bond yields. We also 
operate two defined contribution pension 
schemes that require minimum levels  
of contribution from the company set  
by the Government.

5.  Our financial structure involves bank 
borrowings and, from 2 July 2019, 
senior secured notes due 2039. The 
business therefore needs to generate 
sufficient cash to repay these debts 
with accrued interest. Interest rates 
are also subject to change. See also 
11 below.

8

The introduction of new 
taxes and/or increases in the 
rates of existing taxes will 
result in lower profits.

As regards rates, we retain the services of 
specialist rating consultants who review 
each and every rating assessment. Appeals 
are lodged on our behalf where the new 
assessments are deemed excessive.

Variations in the difference in 
value between the assets of the 
defined benefit scheme and its 
liabilities may increase the amount 
we are required to pay into it in 
order to account for past service 
benefit deficits and future service 
benefit accruals. An increase in 
our contribution levels to the 
defined contribution schemes  
will result in lower profits.

The defined benefit scheme was closed to 
new entrants in 2003 and we make additional 
contributions over and above regular service 
contributions to help address any funding 
deficit. We also maintain a close dialogue 
with the scheme’s trustee. To limit further the 
potential exposure, future service benefits 
accruing to remaining active members were 
reduced from April 2016, with member 
contributions being increased in tandem.

Our ability to trade as a 
going concern depends on us 
generating sufficient cash to 
meet these repayments.

The group’s debt profile is long-dated, facilities 
are committed and debt is carefully managed 
within financial covenants. A mix of debt 
at fixed and variable interest rates is also 
maintained, with interest rate swaps used to 
assist in managing this exposure.

KEY TO CHANGE IN THE RISK/UNCERTAINTY LEVEL FROM THE PRIOR PERIOD

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MITIGATION

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

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6.  We rely on a number of key suppliers 
to provide our pubs and hotels with 
food and drink.

Supply disruption could affect 
customer satisfaction, leading to a 
reduction in our revenue, leading 
to lower profits and growth rates.

Food and drink is sourced from a number of suppliers. 
Informal arrangements are also in place such that 
substitute suppliers or products could be used if 
required. We regularly review our choice of suppliers.

7.  We, and particularly our managed estate, 
are reliant on information systems and 
technology for many aspects of our business, 
including communication, sales transaction 
recording, stock management, purchasing, 
accounting and reporting and many of our 
internal controls. Information systems can be 
at risk of failure due to technical issues and 
the growing threat of cyber attack.

Any failure of such systems or 
technology would cause some 
disruption, and any extended 
period of downtime, loss of 
backed up information or delay 
in recovering information could 
impact significantly on our 
ability to conduct business.

Firewalls and anti-virus software are installed to 
protect our networks. Information is routinely 
backed up and arrangements are in place with a 
third party provider to assist with data recovery. 
An off-site disaster recovery facility is also available 
should any major incident occur at Riverside House 
or to our systems. The IT needs of the business 
are regularly monitored and we invest in new 
technology and services as necessary.

8.  We are dependent on having the right 

people throughout our organisation: at all 
our pubs and hotels and also at Riverside 
House.  See also 11 below.

Our ability to achieve our 
strategic and operational 
objectives could be affected if 
we are unable to attract and 
retain the right people with the 
desired skillsets.

We look to recruit and retain the best talent. 
The remuneration and reward packages we 
offer are competitive and designed to retain and 
motivate staff. We have training and development 
programmes in place so that our people have 
the right skills to perform their jobs successfully 
and achieve their full potential. Having gained 
“employer provider” status, which enables us to 
be an official training provider for apprentices, 
our training programme is now active and we are 
developing our own talent pool for the future.

9.  Part of our growth plan is based 
on acquiring and/or developing 
additional pubs and hotels/rooms.

If acquisitions do not take place 
and/or developments do not 
occur when planned, or at all, 
our desired future growth rate 
will be delayed or reduced.

We have relationships with a variety of third parties to 
ensure, as far as possible, that we are made aware of 
acquisition opportunities as and when they come up. 
We have provided a number of agents and landlords 
with details of our preferred site profiles.

10.  We are required to meet a range of 

ever-increasing compliance, regulatory 
and health and safety obligations in the 
operation of our business.

11.  The UK’s decision to leave the 

European Union (“EU”) has led to a 
heightened degree of uncertainty.

A failure to comply with these 
obligations could damage our 
reputation, see us being fined, and, 
as regards health and safety, result 
in an accident or incident occurring 
involving injury, illness or even loss 
of life. All of these could possibly 
lead to a reduction in our revenue 
and lower growth rates. Increases 
in the cost of compliance will have 
an impact on our margins and 
result in lower profits.

We carefully monitor legislative developments, 
and our training programmes, policies, 
processes and audits are designed to promote 
and achieve compliance with our obligations. 
Health and safety audits are undertaken by a 
third party who also works with us to ensure 
changes in health and safety practices and 
procedures are incorporated into our business 
and reviewed on a regular basis. Insurance 
cover to help with any financial compensation 
that may be payable as a result of an accident 
or incident has been taken out.

The introduction of trade 
barriers would make it costlier 
for the UK to do business with 
Europe and there is also a 
risk that it will become more 
difficult for UK businesses to 
hire from the EU.

We are a UK business with a predominantly UK supplier 
base and fixed price arrangements in place across many 
of those relationships. We are also an ‘employer of choice’ 
with a strong track record of retaining talent. Having 
gained ‘employer provider’ status, we are an official 
training provider for apprentices, thus allowing us to 
develop our own talent pool for the future; this is expected 
to help mitigate staffing issues should certain of the group’s 
EU staff (currently representing c. 37% of the workforce) 
be forced to leave the UK post Brexit, albeit we are looking 
to support them to stay in the UK. See also 2 and 8 above.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019

9

 
 
 
Business and financial review

Managed houses
For our managed houses it has been a 
standout year. Maintaining such high 
performance only gets harder with 
each year, but our impressive like-
for-like sales growth of 5.1% (2018: 
4.2%) demonstrates the bedrock 
of consistency on which we pride 
ourselves. Over the last eight years our 
managed houses have averaged like-
for-like sales growth of 5.4%. 

An increase in our acquisition activity 
in the past 18 months has helped add 
to our total revenue growth, and as a 
result total revenue for the year was up 
9.0%, to £290.3 million. The exciting 
purchase of Redcomb’s 15 pubs has 
added prime locations with tremendous 
opportunities for sales growth. They 
have also brought further geographical 
diversity into the estate with two new 
locations in the South West. We also 
added the Plantation, a small hotel 
with 10 rooms on the south coast near 
Poole, Dorset. Aligned with our strategy 
of targeted quality acquisitions in the 
South of England, these pubs further 
extend the Young’s reach. This now 
takes our managed estate to 199 pubs, 
including 30 hotels, and is an increase 
of 18 pubs compared with the  
previous year.   

Continuing to drive and support the 
pubs and their teams to outperform the 
market is a relentless pursuit, but it’s 
one that we embrace wholeheartedly. 
Our longstanding record of consistently 
raising the bar in our offer and 
accompanying results creates its own 
challenges, but our ambition and work 
ethic gives us that extra spring in our 
step to continue to excel.

Revenue and profits
Sales in the first half of the year were 
given the perfect start as our riverside 
locations and beautiful gardens provided 
ideal locations as customers looked to 
bask in the sunshine for the hottest 
British summer on record. For many, 
the summer of 2018 will also be fondly 
remembered as football fever gripped 
the nation, and it wasn’t just Gareth 
Southgate who liked to enjoy a pint 
of Young’s Bitter, as England’s success 
helped boost pub footfall during the 

10

five-week tournament period. At the half 
year we had achieved like-for-like sales 
growth of 5.2%, which was maintained 
during the second half thanks to another 
exceptional Christmas season for 
Young’s and some welcome early spring 
sunshine; together, this saw us close out 
the year with a like-for-like sales increase 
of 5.1%. 

Through those early summer months, 
pubs were once again the focus for 
social gatherings and it was our drink 
sales which benefitted most. Craft lager 
and ale continue to grow in popularity, 
with craft keg ale sales increasing by 
22.9%. Again, the premium choice 
of customers is the driving force, with 
the two key brands of Camden and 
Beavertown being the success stories, 
and their sales have now matched 
those of all cask ale. For the year, total 
drink sales were up 9.6% and up 6.5% 
on a like-for-like basis.

Cask ale remains a key part of our 
heritage and reputation and this year we 
were particularly excited to work with St 
Austell Brewery which now sees Proper 
Job sit perfectly alongside our existing 
Young’s portfolio and our established 
‘local hero’ products. Young’s pubs offer 
the environment for our customers to 
enjoy a perfect pint of cask ale and it is 
important that it maintains its presence 
on the bar in the ever-changing pub 
market. To ensure the premium quality 
of our cask ale we closely manage 
our throughputs and control cellar 
temperatures, whilst our ‘Hop Masters’ 
training programme focuses on all things 
beer; from the history and process of 
brewing to the latest in beer trends.

At the start of the year we launched our 
latest gin campaign, ‘Spring into Gin’, 
where the focus and innovation were 
on flavour, both in the gins and mixers, 
adding further interest and colour. Its 
success alongside the popularity of the 
‘ginspired’ premium serve balloon glass 
kept the Young’s gin revolution rolling 
on, as sales rose by 35.2%, making it the 
sixth consecutive year with sales growth 
of over 20%. Our sales of gin are 
34.5% of total spirit sales, and compared 
with the market we are over-indexed, 
highlighting our premium standing from 
this resurgent product. 

We have also taken on a more 
premium position with our wine offer 
as training and marketing activity is 
aimed towards a ‘Super 6’ and ‘Focus’ 
range as part of our partnership with 
Berkmann Wine Cellars. We continue 
to benefit from their expertise, a wider 
range of new world wines and a more 
engaged workforce through the jointly 
run ‘Grape Masters’ programme. Our 
customers have, in turn, enjoyed the 
journey from traditional house wines 
to more complex grape varieties, most 
recently the rosé revolution.  

Our now established ‘Cocktail 
Collective’, which focuses on delivering 
a selective range of quality, perfectly 
served cocktails, has played a significant 
part in another year of outstanding 
cocktail growth, with sales up 32.1% 
(2018: 46.1%). The most popular cocktail 
for a second successive year has been 
Aperol Spritz which has seen a boom 
of 70.0% (2018: 85.0%). Overall, spirit 
sales grew by 14.4%. 

We remain confident in our food 
strategy in what continues to be a 
challenging marketplace. Our expert 
team of executive chefs work tirelessly 
to ensure that British, seasonal and fresh 
produce are at the heart of every dish 
we produce. With our menus continually 
changing with the seasons, this year we 
introduced the ‘Famous For’ strategy 
which allows each pub to find that 
something different that customers can 
associate them with. A fine example of 
this is the Windmill (Mayfair) with a nod 
to ‘proper pub grub’; its hand crafted 
and traditional British seasonal pies made 
with homemade pastry are winners 

with its customers, and last year their 
venison pie came highly commended 
at the prestigious Annual Pie Awards 
finishing in the top 3 of the specialty 
meat class. Our five Young’s classics and 
the ultimate Sunday lunches remain at 
the core of our strategy. In total, food 
sales were up 6.1%, and up 1.7% on a 
like-for-like basis. With no Easter bank 
holidays falling in the financial year, this 
had a negative 0.6% pts impact on our 
like-for-like food sales; excluding this 
period they were up 2.3%.

Nowadays, in such a competitive 
market, consumers are spoilt for 
choice and expect a unique customer 
experience that sets itself apart from the 
crowd. A great example of this is the 
Devonshire (Balham), which, following 
on from last year, flipped more than 
burgers as it turned the successful 
“Balham Peaks” on its head, as the 
popular pop-up became the “Balham 
Beach Club” during the summer 
months. Kitted out with sand, beach 
hut cabanas and deck chairs, customers 
enjoyed summer-themed cocktails and 
Aperol Spritz, alongside freshly cooked 
burgers straight from the Burger Shack 
garden grill.  

Hotel room sales have also had another 
successful year, up 5.4% on a like-for-
like basis. Occupancy rates were 75.5%, 
up by 0.8% pts on the previous year, 
and RevPar increased by £3.24 or 
5.1% to £66.39. Total accommodation 
revenue has increased by a considerable 
19.6%, largely driven by the two hotels 
acquired at the end of the last financial 
year. Split across five new hotels, we 
have also added 88 rooms in the last 
twelve months, bringing our total room 
stock to 668. Another key part of our 
premium offer is the high standard of 
our hotel rooms. With designated capital 
investment set aside each year for an 
average of 5 hotels, improvements are 
made to meet the long term vision of 
our room quality. Projects focus on 
improving specifications to boutique 
standard, modernising bathrooms 
and installing air conditioning. This 
investment has gone a long way to 
helping support such healthy like-for-
like sales growth.

It has been another year where we 
have had to combat further increases 
to our cost base. The well-publicised 
cost headwinds such as business rates, 
another year’s instalment of the national 
living wage and the apprenticeship levy 
have added significantly to our operating 
costs. Over the past 18 months we have 
invested significantly on acquisitions, 
some of which are taking their time to 
achieve their expected returns. Despite 
these factors, our managed house 
adjusted operating profit grew by  
1.3% to £61.5 million.

Investment
In the year, we were extremely excited 
to acquire Redcomb Pubs, the owner 
and operator of 15 sites in prime 
locations in and around London and in 
the South West, increasing our coastal 
presence and further enhancing the 
Young’s brand. They fit well with our 
strategy, which focusses on adding high 
quality managed houses where our 
premium offer will work extremely well. 

Elsewhere we made other major 
acquisitions, openings and transfers, 
all of which are unique in their own 
way yet still at the premium end of the 
market. The highlights include:

• the Naturalist, a new waterside 

development in the regeneration area 
of Woodberry Down (Hackney), and 
another in the list of pubs opened in 
partnership with Berkeley Homes;

• the Plantation, further increasing our 
hotel room stock with the addition of 
10 rooms at Canford Cliffs Beach, near 
to the well-known Sandbanks in Poole; 
and

• the Bear, now a stunning refurbished 
18th century country inn, in Cobham 
in the heart of Surrey, transferred 
from the Ram Pub Company late in 
the financial year.

A common theme in all these 
acquisitions is their superb locations 
and future potential, both fundamental 
factors in our investment decisions.   

During the course of the year, 
including acquisitions, we invested 
£52.2 million in our managed estate.

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Significant investment was made in 
two of last year’s acquisitions, the 
Park and the Bridge, with the pub 
and dining areas at both transformed, 
elevating these businesses to show 
the best in class, premium standards 
of Young’s. Alongside these, we have 
targeted investment in our core estate, 
designed to update or increase trading 
areas with major projects undertaken 
at the Bull (Westfield Shepherd’s 
Bush), Cow (Westfield Stratford), 
Coach & Horses (Kew), Hand in 
Hand, Red Barn (Lingfield), Waterside 
(Fulham), Wheatsheaf (Borough 
Market) and the White Hart (Sherfield). 

Customer engagement
Technology is such an important part 
of the customer experience, from the 
start to the end of their interaction with 
the pub, and we understand how vital 
it is to our success. This year we have 
re-launched our corporate website onto 
an updated platform to offer customers 
a visually more impactful experience 
and a smoother customer journey, as 
well as driving search optimisation. We 
are seeing the benefit of modernising 
our individual pub websites, resulting 
in above industry-average booking 
conversion rates and significant growth 
in online bookings across the pubs. 

Elsewhere we have launched our new 
hotel booking system, facilitating a 
seamless customer journey. Its 7 stage 
booking process allows guests to tailor 
their stay to the occasion, whether it be 
adding a bottle of something bubbly in 
the room, reserving a table for dinner 
or arranging tickets for a local event.

Now in its third year, ‘Young’s On 
Tap’ was re-launched with a simpler 
mobile payment process to enhance the 
customer journey and drive revenue. 
Our new bar tab functionality allows 
customers to create a digital tab via 
the app, order at the bar or to their 
table and invite guests to join their tab. 
When it’s time to leave, payment and 
bill splitting can all be done through the 
app, giving customers flexibility while 
taking pressure off staff, leaving them 
more time to serve customers. The 
latest update is now able to support our 
centralised marketing campaigns by 

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 11

 
 
 
Business and financial review

Continued

12

providing targeted treats for users with 
accompanying push notifications to 
encourage repeat visits.

The customer journey wouldn’t be 
complete without the interaction with 
our teams and the pubs themselves. 
This year we completed the roll out of 
our new enhanced till system which 
allows for a more interactive experience 
for staff as well as the infrastructure 
that connects with multiple third party 
platforms, reflecting our belief that 
trading is only likely to become ever 
more reliant on technology.

The Ram Pub Company

It has been a strong year for the Ram 
Pub Company, with focus on good 
estate management as well as building 
on the opportunities that we can help 
to develop and support through healthy 
working relationships with our tenants. 

We sold two pubs at the tail of the 
estate for combined proceeds of £1.3 
million: the William IV (Bletchingley) 
and the King’s Arms (Mitcham), whilst 
also exiting from our lease agreement 
at the Queen’s Head (Stepney Green).  

In early 2019, we transferred the Bear, 
acquired last year, to our managed 
house division in order to maximise 
its potential further, returning it to its 
former glory as a fantastic, local village 
pub. Other transfer opportunities do 
exist within the Ram Pub Company 
which we will look to harvest when the 
time is right for both us and our tenants.

As a result of the above movements, 
the Ram Pub Company ended the 
year with 70 pubs down from 74 in 
the previous year.

Revenue and profits
In total, revenue within the Ram Pub 
Company was up by 3.2%, reflective 
of the net reduction in pubs. On a like-
for-like basis, revenue growth was up 
5.0%; the highest in over a decade, with 
growth driven from both increased beer 
sales as well as the rents we receive from 
our tenants. 

Our increasing like-for-like sales, 
improving margins and continued 

investment have resulted in total 
adjusted operating profit of £5.0 million, 
an increase of £0.6 million or 13.6%. 
Our average pub EBITDA was £96.4K 
(2018: £80.6K) and remains one of the 
highest in the sector.  

With the good year for the Ram Pub 
Company, it now represents 7.5% of 
adjusted operating profit at pub level 
whilst its share of total group revenue 
has fallen to 4.3%.

Investment
In December 2018, we welcomed the 
People’s Park Tavern and its tenant into 
the Ram Pub Company. This attractive 
freehold pub has an extensive garden 
which backs onto the edge of Victoria 
Park in East London and, in time, 
will become another exciting future 
managed opportunity. Within our 
existing estate, we follow a structured 
and viable investment programme 
to ensure that each tenanted pub is 
maintained at an attractive standard to 
appeal to customers, current tenants 
and future business partners. 

In the past year we’ve completed major 
developments at the Calthorpe Arms 
(Bloomsbury), Grand Junction Arms 
(Harlesden), Surprise (Lambeth), Swan 
Inn (Sidmouth) and the White Hart 
(Witley). In addition to these projects 
we are currently underway with the 
exciting development of the Ram Inn 
(Wandsworth) on the site of the old 
Ram Brewery, which will see this iconic 
pub restored back to its former glory. 
Completion and opening of the pub is 
due early in the new financial year.

Tenant engagement
Our tenanted model is focussed upon 
developing and maintaining businesses 
that offer a sustainable income for 
individual tenants and sustainable 
profits for Young’s. It’s a partnership 
built on trust and a common goal. By 
reflecting industry codes of practice, 
rents can move down as well as up. Our 
entrepreneurial tenants, supported by 
our own experienced in-house team, 
continue to operate bespoke offerings, 
tailored to attract customers in the 
communities they serve under the 
strapline “Everyone’s local”. 

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Property, treasury, going 
concern, retirement benefits, 
exceptional items and tax

Property
Our balance sheet strength is 
underpinned by our predominately 
freehold estate in many highly 
desirable locations. 222 of our total 
269 pubs are freehold or long 
leaseholds with peppercorn rents. Our 
total estate is now valued at £807.0 
million (2018: £742.9 million). The 
increased value has been driven by 
acquisitions, major developments 
and improving existing pub values, 
especially in our London heartland, 
assisted by our growing trade. 

Each year we undertake an exercise to 
revalue our pub estate to reflect current 
market values. Savills, an independent 
and leading commercial property adviser, 
revalued 20% of our estate, while an 
internal review of the remaining 80% 
was led by Andrew Cox, MRICS, our 
Director of Property and Tenancies. The 
valuation method used a number of 
inputs of which the sustainable level of 
trade of each pub is key.  

In accordance with International 
Financial Reporting Standards, 
individual increases in value have been 
reflected in the revaluation reserve 
in the balance sheet (except to the 
extent that they had previously been 
revalued downwards) and individual 
falls in value below depreciated cost 
have been accounted for through 
the income statement. None of these 
adjustments have a cash impact. 

The pub property market in London 
and the surrounding areas has 
remained strong throughout the 
period, which, coupled with our 
continued trading performance, has 
resulted in a net upward revaluation 
movement of £25.2 million (2018: 
£29.5 million). This is comprised of an 
upward movement of £25.3 million 
(2018: £29.2 million) reflected in the 
revaluation reserve and a downward 
movement of £0.1 million (2018: 
£0.3 million reversal of downward 
movement) recognised in the income 
statement under exceptional items.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 13

 
 
 
Business and financial review

Continued

Treasury
We remain highly cash generative. Our 
operating cash flow was £69.2 million 
(2018: £61.4 million) with our premium 
business and predominantly freehold 
estate outperforming the market.  

Following the acquisition of Redcomb 
pubs, our total net debt has increased 
by £23.1 million to £163.6 million. The 
leverage ratio impact of the Redcomb 
acquisition was slightly exaggerated due 
to the completion date falling in the 
last quarter of the year. Nevertheless, 
our net debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio 
remains conservative at 2.2 times (2018: 
2.0 times) underpinned by our strong 
balance sheet, giving us opportunities to 
pursue our acquisition strategy. Gearing 
is 27.6% (2018: 25.6%). 

During the year, we utilised the accordion 
mechanism in our revolving credit facility, 
extending it from £75 million to £100 
million and thus bringing our year-end 
funding facilities to £200 million. Taken 
out in March 2018, the revolving credit 
facility, split evenly between HSBC and 
Barclays, initially ran until 2023. We 
extended the facility to 2024; a further 
one year option to extend to 2025 
remains. All our remaining facilities are 
unamended. Of our drawn debt, 61.0% 
is on fixed interest rates. 

14

After the end of the financial year we 
secured additional long-term debt 
financing through a private placement.  
This will see us raise £35 million in July 
2019, with Barings receiving senior 
secured notes at a fixed interest rate of 
3.30% for 20 years.

Going concern
Given our long-term facilities, our 
freehold estate, significant free cash 
flow and the conservative financial ratios 
referred to above, we have prepared 
our 2019 financial statements on a 
going concern basis.

Retirement benefits
We have a defined benefit pension 
scheme which has been closed to 
new entrants since 2003. During 
the course of the year our pension 
deficit has increased by £2.5 million 
to £8.6 million. Compared with last 
year, the rate of inflation has remained 
flat whilst we have continued our 
commitment with another year 
of special contributions, totalling 
£1.2 million, and we remain fully 
committed to ensuring the pension 
scheme is adequately funded.

A recent High Court judgement 
handed down regarding the 
Lloyds Banking Group’s defined 

benefit pension scheme will affect 
many pension schemes in the UK, 
including the company’s scheme. The 
judgement concluded that schemes 
should be amended to ensure that 
members who have guaranteed 
minimum pensions receive the same 
benefits regardless of their gender. 
This change impacts on guaranteed 
minimum pension benefits accrued 
between 1990 and 1997. The 
trustee of the company’s scheme 
is considering the impact of the 
judgement on scheme liabilities and 
individual members, and at 1 April 
2019 this work is ongoing. 

In consultation with independent 
actuaries, the company has estimated 
that the financial effect of equalising 
benefits is to increase the company’s 
accounting pension deficit in the 
balance sheet by £2.5 million. This  
is required to be accounted for as  
a benefit change, and a non-cash 
charge has been recognised as  
a past service cost.

Exceptional Items
Due to the size and nature of the 
guaranteed minimum pension charge, 
the £2.5 million has been presented 
as an exceptional item in the income 

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

statement, making up the majority of the 
total £3.9 million of exceptional items. 

It was another busy year on the 
acquisition front and the associated 
costs related to business combinations 
were £1.2 million (2018: £1.2 million). 
The most significant investment 
decision of the year was the acquisition 
of the Redcomb group, and there were 
further costs relating to the People’s 
Park Tavern. The Bear was the latest 
pub to transfer across to the managed 
house division following its acquisition 
in the prior year. An early termination 
was also agreed with the tenant of the 
Bayee Village (Wimbledon Village) as 
part of the project at the Dog & Fox. 
Compensation payable to terminate 
their lease agreements early is 
expensed under IFRS, with the cost in 
the year of £0.5 million included within 
exceptional items. 

The remaining exceptional items are 
a charge relating to the revaluation 
of the pub estate of £0.1 million, as 
mentioned previously, along with a 
profit on disposal of two tenanted pubs 
of £0.4 million.

Tax
Our corporation tax charge for the 
year was £8.0 million, with a fall in our 
effective corporation tax rate for the 
year, adjusted for exceptional items, of 
0.6% pts to 18.7%. The headline UK 
corporation tax rate remained at 19.0% 
and is set to reduce in future years to 
17.0% from April 2020 impacting on 
deferred tax balances.   

The group’s tax strategy has been 
published on the Young’s website in 
accordance with recent UK tax law. 

Shareholder returns
Having started life in 1831, Young’s is 
a long-standing business and we are 
determined to continue our long-term, 
sustainable growth story. We continue 
to deliver strong performances from 
our existing estate and our hand-picked 
developments, focussing on both 
immediate and maintainable gains. 

Our strong and sustainable cash 
flows support our acquisition and 
development programs to maintain 
our pubs at the premium end of the 
market, maximise future returns, 

maintain net debt at acceptable levels 
and help continue our proud record of 
consecutive dividend increases. 

This year, we are pleased to 
recommend raising the final dividend 
for the 22nd consecutive year, once 
again by 6.0%, this time to 10.81 
pence. If approved by shareholders, 
this will give a total dividend for the 
year of 20.78 pence (2018: 19.61 
pence), representing a real income 
increase from Young’s shares. 

Our adjusted earnings per share now 
stands at 72.13 pence per share, up 
6.5%. On an unadjusted basis, earnings 
per share rose by 4.5% to 64.36 pence. 
These earnings per share figures result 
in a healthy dividend cover of 3.5 times 
and 3.1 times respectively.

On behalf of the board

Patrick Dardis
Chief Executive
22 May 2019

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 15

 
 
 
Most pints of Young’s 
Special sold in the year: 
Alexandra, Wimbledon

Most coastal site: 
Boathouse, Appledore

Pub facts

Owned since inception 
in 1831: Spotted Horse, 
Putney

Most fish dishes 
sold in the year:  
Crown & Anchor, 
Chichester

16

Strategic report
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Financial statements
Shareholder information

Most gin-based drinks 
sold in the year:  
Ship, Wandsworth

Most pints of Young’s 
Bitter sold in the year: 
Lamb Tavern, City of 
London

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 17

New boutique 
bedrooms added at:  
Park, Teddington

Most steak dishes 
sold in the year:  
Guinea, Mayfair

 
 
 
Corporate social responsibility

We are committed to 
investing in our people and 
their future. We conduct our 
business in a socially and 
environmentally responsible 
manner, benefiting the 
communities in which we 
work and remembering that 
we are custodians of a long 
and proud history.

Our people
We have always believed that our 
team is our greatest asset and how we 
nurture and develop them is crucial in 
delivering our winning strategy. At 1 
April 2019 we employed 4,874 (2018: 
4,116) people and we see everyone’s 
well-being as vitally important for 
them to enjoy and continue working 
with us. There are so many different 
aspects to personal well-being; 
understanding this, we made it one 
of our key people initiatives this past 
year to focus on both the mental and 
financial elements. 

It is widely recognised that an 
important part of an individual’s 
well-being stems from good financial 
health. From October 2018, we 
partnered with Salary Finance to offer 
support and advice to employees free 
of charge to help them live healthier, 
happier lives through the current and 
future financial decisions they make. 
Working with Salary Finance, we have 
also introduced a financial support 
programme. This aims to help our 
staff get out of any financial difficulties 
they may find themselves in by offering 
access to affordable loans through 
their salary as it is earned. Since the 
programme’s launch, 9.2% of our 
employees have engaged with their 
team, with 2.9% of eligible employees 
having applied for support under the 
scheme offered. 

18

Mental health is now more widely 
talked about in public, given greater 
coverage in the media and has been 
discussed in Parliament where there 
are thoughts of implementing it as 
part of compulsory education in the 
UK. In recognising its importance to 
our own employees, our initial key 
initiative has been the training of 
mental health first aiders from within 
our People Team. Further mental 
health training has been given to our 
head office employees and to those in 
our pubs, alongside a workshop held 
by the License Trade Charity on the 
support they can offer to people  
in need. 

Our Management Academy, now 
in its 7th cycle, is aimed at setting 
up our future managers for success. 
This year we are very proud that 50 
general manager vacancies have been 
filled through internal candidates. 
Not just focussed on finding the 
general managers of the future, our 
Management Academy has produced 
four graduates who have taken up 
roles in our support functions. 

The government recognised that 
Young’s apprenticeship scheme is an 
18-month commitment focusing on 
progressing kitchen porters through 
to qualified chefs. Work is underway 
to expand our suite of available 
apprenticeships with the addition of  
a course to cover front of house staff. 

Our community
Our pubs play an important part in the 
heart of their communities and we are 
extremely proud of the continued efforts 
they make in this regard. The role that 
our pubs take on can either be financially 
through charitable contributions or the 
endless events they hold for members  
of their community. 

This year, in the month of October, we 
held a coordinated charitable fundraising 
effort across the company with teams 
from the pubs and head office holding 
local, individual and unique events. 
Examples of fundraising events that 
took place came in all different shapes 
and sizes such as marathons, barrel 
rolling, a ‘MasterChef’ style cook off by 
head office staff, and a pyjama party. 
Across the month events raised almost 
£50,000 for a host of charities that 
were selected in consultation with pub 
customers adding to the community 
aspect. Chosen charities ranged from 
larger national charities to local not-for-
profit organisations closer to home such 
as Shepherd’s Bush Families, Glass Door 
Homeless Charity, Noah’s Ark Children’s 
Hospice, St George’s Hospital, DT38 
Foundation, Stem4 and Wimbledon 
Food Bank. With its success in 2018, 
plans are already afoot for an even 
bigger total in 2019. 

There are many stories of how our pubs 
help their communities. At the Red 
Barn (Lingfield), the pub held a local 

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

farmer’s market charity fundraiser where 
people could come and showcase their 
local produce and crafts, with each stall 
donating an element of their takings. 
Then at the King’s Head (Winchmore 
Hill), our manager Gary approached St. 
Paul’s and Highfield’s primary schools 
to see how his team could contribute to 
seasonal fundraising activities. As a result, 
they have run bars and barbecues at a 
number of summer fetes, with all profits 
going to the schools’ chosen charities.

Lastly, Mick and Sarah at the Alexandra 
(Wimbledon), have for many years 
found ways to champion community 
work through the pub. Taking it upon 
themselves to help combat loneliness, 
their ‘Meet up Monday’s’ served up a 
free lunch to any customers wanting 
some human contact. Its success led 
to them receiving an invitation to 
Buckingham Palace on 5 June 2018. 

Finally, following last year’s move to 
biodegradable straws, we continue 
to look at other ways of reducing the 
amount of single use plastics in our 
business. Recently we joined the ‘Simply 
Cups’ scheme which provides a cost-
effective method to the recycling of 
plastic drink glasses. Working with them 
we have deployed a collection service  
in several of our pubs where there is  
a high volume of plastic usage. There 
are further improvements we can make 
to our plastic usage and we continue  
to review this in conjunction with  
our suppliers. 

Our 2019 Strategic Report, from 
pages 1 to 19, was approved by the 
board on 22 May 2019 and it was 
signed on behalf of the board by:

Patrick Dardis
Chief Executive
22 May 2019

Our environment
We continue to work hard to improve 
the environment in which we operate. 
Last year we again saw improvements 
to our recycling, with an increase of 
9.4% to 7,403 tonnes (2018: 6,768 
tonnes) and proudly maintained our 
position of sending zero waste  
to landfill. 

We remain an active member of the 
Sustainable Restaurant Association and 
have continued, via the focus of our 
food strategy, to support local produce, 
with fresh, premium and seasonal 
British ingredients helping reduce 
our carbon footprint. We supported 
the local and historic fishing town of 
Hastings with the introduction of day 
boat fish landed from the quay. We 
also began supporting food producers 
who sometimes are forced to send 
crops straight to landfill. Now, their 
often underutilised or misshapen fruit 
and vegetables regularly appear in our 
dishes. Focussing on seasonal monthly 
specials we also deliver a variety of 
rare breed meats allowing our guests 
to taste and support these traditional 
English varieties.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 19

 
 
 
Directors’ report

For the 52 weeks ended 1 April 2019

Welcome to our board of directors. All of the directors served throughout the period; no other person was a director 
during the period apart from Steven Robinson who resigned and left the company on 11 December 2018.

PD

IM

TD

RL

SG

TC

TSY

NM

Stephen Goodyear
NON-EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN

A

Patrick Dardis
CHIEF EXECUTIVE

E

D

Torquil Sligo-Young
INFORMATION RESOURCES

E

D

Commenced role
April 2017 (appointed to the board in February 1996)

Commenced role
July 2016 (appointed to the board in July 2003)

Commenced role
January 1997

Skills and experience
Stephen has a considerable knowledge of, and 
passion for, Young’s and the industry. He began 
his career with Courage Ltd in 1974 and joined 
Young’s in 1995. In 2003, he became chief 
executive and oversaw the sale of the Ram Brewery, 
the creation of the tenanted Ram Pub Company 
and the transformation of Young’s into a premium 
managed house business. The latter involved the 
acquisition of Geronimo Inns at the end of 2010 
and the creation of a growing hotels operation. In 
2016, Stephen stepped down as chief executive and 
became a non-executive director. In 2013, he was 
also the Master of the Brewers’ Company. Stephen 
is approachable, measured, calm and influential, and 
provides invaluable support to the chief executive. 
As chairman, he is impartial and objective and 
encourages open and constructive debate.

Skills and experience
With over 35 years’ experience working in the 
pub and brewing industry, Patrick has extensive 
knowledge and experience of the sector. Before 
joining Young’s in 2002, he held various roles at 
Wolverhampton & Dudley Breweries PLC (now 
Marston’s PLC), Guinness Brewing, Whitbread PLC 
and Courage Ltd. Over his time as retail director at 
Young’s (2003-16), he developed his leadership skills 
further and was instrumental in making Young’s 
the premium managed house operation it is today. 
Patrick is a council member of the British Beer 
and Pub Association and an executive committee 
member of the IFBB (see below). He understands 
the Young’s business inside out, is well-known and 
very well respected both within Young’s and the 
industry. Patrick brings unrivalled passion, drive and 
commitment to the role.

Other relevant external appointments
The Independent Family Brewers of Britain (director)

Skills and experience
Torquil joined Young’s in 1985 and has held 
various positions in the company. With his broad 
experience, he has overall responsibility for the 
group’s technological needs – here, he delegates 
to an experienced internal team and oversees 
management of this area. He heads up the in-house 
corporate social responsibility team and is chairman 
of a charitable trust set up by William Allen Young, 
a founder of the business. These latter two positions 
have seen a furthering of the company’s relationship 
with the local community and various charities. Due 
to his length of service and knowledge of Young’s, 
he is chairman of Young’s Pension Trustees Limited 
(see below). Torquil brings a calmness to his position 
and, being a member of the founding family, he 
helps the company keep in touch with  
family shareholders. 

Other relevant external appointments
The Aldenham Foundation (director) – a trustee of 
charities engaged in secondary, primary and nursery 
education

Friends of Holy Cross Hospital (chairman of the 
trustees) – supports the work of the hospital.

William Allen Young Charitable Trust (chairman of 
the trustees)

Young’s Pension Trustees Limited (chairman) – the 
trustee company that manages the Young & Co.’s 
Brewery, P.L.C. Pension Scheme

20

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Trish Corzine
NON-EXECUTIVE

A R

Commenced role
January 2015

Skills and experience
With the majority of her career spent in the 
restaurant industry, Trish brings to the board more 
detailed knowledge and understanding of this part 
of the hospitality and leisure sector. This experience 
was gained primarily at The Restaurant Group plc 
where she spent 20 years, nine as an executive 
director responsible for their concessions business. 
She is commercially aware and understands the inner 
workings and challenges of running restaurants and 
food operations.

Committee membership
Audit committee
A

R

E

D

Remuneration committee

Executive committee

Disclosure committee

Chair of committee

Tracy Dodd
PEOPLE

E D

Commenced role
September 2016

Skills and experience
Tracy has overall responsibility for people matters 
and for health and safety. She joined Young’s in 
January 2015; before that, during eight years at the 
Orchid pub group, she held a number of roles, 
most recently as Head of People, whilst also being 
involved with health and safety for part of her time 
there. As an ex-operator, Tracy is well aware of the 
issues faced by a pub business, and she has the 
skills, knowledge and expertise to help ensure that 
the group has the right people and culture in place 
and that it operates in a safe and healthy way. She 
has a clear understanding of the group’s premium-
led strategy and her focus is on what is required to 
deliver that, remaining ever mindful of the regulatory 
backdrop to people and health and safety matters, 
including equality, gender diversity and employee 
well-being. Tracy leads by example, is a team player, 
communicates well and, as one would expect of 
someone holding her position, is very approachable 
and discreet.

Other relevant external appointments
Hospitality Apprenticeship Board (member)

Roger Lambert
NON-EXECUTIVE AND   
SENIOR INDEPENDENT

A R

Commenced role
August 2008 (becoming senior independent  
in July 2011)

Skills and experience
Roger is a Partner at Peel Hunt LLP (see below) 
(2017 to date). He was previously Chairman of 
Corporate Broking at Canaccord Genuity (2010-16) 
and a member of the corporate finance team at J.P. 
Morgan Cazenove (1982-2008), most recently as 
a senior managing director covering the consumer 
sector. He started in 1982 as an analyst covering 
the brewing and pubs sector before moving into 
corporate finance where he has advised more 
than 25 companies in the sector. Roger has a 
wealth of relevant expertise in capital markets 
and brewing, drinks and hospitality. He brings 
gravitas to the senior independent role, along with 
financial astuteness to his chairmanship of the audit 
committee and strength of personality and charisma 
to his non-executive position.

Other relevant external appointments
Peel Hunt LLP (partner) – corporate broking, 
advisory and trading house focussing on mid and 
small-cap companies

Nick Miller
NON-EXECUTIVE

Commenced role
April 2017

A R

Ian McHoul
NON-EXECUTIVE

A

Commenced role
January 2018

Skills and experience
Nick has a wealth of experience in hospitality, leisure 
and brewing. Most recently, he was the CEO of 
Meantime Brewing Company (2011-16) and before 
that he was the MD of Miller Brands, the UK arm of 
SAB Miller, the multinational brewing and beverage 
company. Nick has an excellent reputation in the 
industry. He is a particularly perceptive businessman, 
with significant experience and demonstrable career 
success at both Meantime and SAB Miller. With this 
background, he is able and prepared to challenge 
the executive directors. He has brought a strong and 
valuable external perspective to the board. With his 
recent executive experience, strength of character 
and willingness and ability to engage, he is well 
placed to lead the remuneration committee.

Other relevant external appointments
Hogs Back Brewery Limited (director) – a Surrey-
based brewer

Skills and experience
Ian is a chartered accountant and an experienced 
non-executive director: Premier Foods plc (2004-
13), Britvic Plc (2014 to date, appointed as senior 
independent director in 2017), John Wood Group 
plc (2017-18), Bellway Plc (2018 to date) and The 
Vitec Group plc (2019 to date, chairman designate 
and then chairman). Most recently, Ian was the 
chief financial officer of Amec Foster Wheeler 
plc (2008-17) (having also been the interim 
CEO there) and before then was involved in the 
brewing and licenced retail industry in a variety 
of positions (1985-2008). With his considerable 
experience, his contribution both in and outside 
of board meetings is insightful. At a personal 
level, his ability to listen, build trust and encourage 
means he is able to act as a mentor to others.

Other relevant external appointments
Bellway Plc (director) – a major listed UK residential 
property developer based in Newcastle upon Tyne.

Britvic Plc (director) – a major listed UK producer of 
soft drinks based in Hemel Hempstead

The Vitec Group plc (chairman) – a leading global 
provider of products and solutions to the “image 
capture and content creation” market

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 21

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ report

Continued

Directors’ interests in the company’s share capital
Set out below are the interests in the company’s share capital of the directors who held office at the end of the period and 
of the persons closely associated with them (as defined in the Market Abuse Regulation). These interests are in addition to 
those shown in note 8(e) on page 58.

Stephen Goodyear (i), (ii) 

Patrick Dardis (i), (ii) 

Torquil Sligo-Young (i), (ii), (iii) 

Tracy Dodd (i) 

Roger Lambert 

Trish Corzine 

Nick Miller 

Ian McHoul 

Beneficial 

Beneficial 

Beneficial 

Trustee 

Beneficial 

Beneficial 

Beneficial 

Beneficial 

Beneficial 

As at 

1 April 2019 
2 April 2018 

1 April 2019 
2 April 2018 

1 April 2019 
2 April 2018 
1 April 2019 
2 April 2018 

1 April 2019 
2 April 2018 

1 April 2019 
2 April 2018 

1 April 2019 
2 April 2018 

1 April 2019 
2 April 2018 

1 April 2019 
2 April 2018 

A shares 

223,189 
224,001 

104,928 
82,772 

292,373 
301,980 
4,154,340 
4,154,340 

7,301 
2,579 

5,250 
5,250 

1,000 
1,000 

55,000 
55,000 

– 
– 

Non-voting
shares

–
–

–
–

–
–
649,914
649,914

–
–

5,000
5,000

5,000
5,000

– 
–

– 
–

(i)  Also interested in 29,740 (2018: 7,345) A shares held in trust by RBT II Trustees Limited – see note 28 on page 78.
(ii)  Also interested in 337,067 (2018: 337,067) A shares held in trust by Young’s Pension Trustees Limited – see note 28 on page 78.
(iii)  Torquil and various members of his immediate family are discretionary beneficiaries under trusts holding 836,368 (2018: 836,368) of the A shares  
and 553,866 (2018: 553,866) of the non-voting shares in respect of which Torquil Sligo-Young is shown as trustee in the above table. 

Profit and dividends
The profit for the period attributable to shareholders was £31.5 million. The directors recommend a final dividend for the period 
of 10.81 pence per share (which, subject to approval at the AGM, is expected to be paid on 11 July 2019 to shareholders on the 
register at the close of business on 7 June 2019). When added to the interim dividend of 9.97 pence per share paid in December 
2018, this would produce a total dividend for the period of 20.78 pence per share.

Disclosure of information to the auditor 
Each of the directors shown on pages 20 and 21 confirms that so far as he or she is aware, there is no information needed by the 
company’s auditor in connection with preparing its report of which the company’s auditor is unaware. Further, each of them confirms 
that he or she has taken all the steps that he or she ought to have taken as a director to make himself or herself aware of any such 
information and to establish that the company’s auditor is aware of it. This paragraph is to be interpreted in accordance with section 
418 of the Companies Act 2006.

Qualifying indemnity provisions 
The company’s articles of association contains an indemnity provision for the benefit of the directors; this provision, which is a qualifying 
third party indemnity provision, is in force at the date of this report and it applied throughout the period for the benefit of those who 
were then directors of the company. An additional qualifying third party indemnity provision is also in force at the date of this report; this 
benefits, amongst others, the executive directors and Stephen Goodyear, and relates to certain losses and liabilities which they may incur 
in connection with certain property-related matters.

 Important events since the end of the period and likely future developments
As permitted under section 414C(11) of the Companies Act 2006, the directors have chosen to include in the strategic report 
(on pages 1 to 19) particulars of important events affecting the group which have occurred since the end of the period and an 
indication of likely future developments in the group’s business.

Donations  
No political donations were made.

Financial instruments and related matters
Included in note 22, on page 68, are the group’s financial risk management objectives and policies and an indication of the 
group’s exposure to certain risks. 

22

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Employees
Considerable importance is placed on communications with employees and so, within the limitation of commercial confidentiality and 
security, Young’s provided them with information concerning trading, development and other appropriate matters. It did this at many levels 
throughout the business, both formally and informally, including through management presentations and, for employees based at Riverside 
House in Wandsworth, a full-year and half-year results presentation. Where appropriate and necessary, some information had to be cascaded. 
The company also consulted regularly with employees and their representatives thereby enabling the board to have regard to their views 
when making decisions likely to affect their interests; in connection with this, Young’s continued to operate an information and consultation 
committee with its members being drawn from departments based at Riverside House. The company’s integrated appraisal and development 
process, designed to improve communications and the company’s performance, remained in place, and the company continued to operate 
a bonus scheme for eligible employees. To encourage further involvement and interest in the group’s performance, the company invited all 
employees of the group who had been continuously employed at and from the start of the period to join the group’s savings-related share 
option scheme for 2018. After saving for a three-year period (through deductions from net salary), scheme members can then buy A shares 
in the company if they choose to do so at 1,364 pence per share, being a discount of 20% to the market price at the time the invitations were 
issued. Young’s maintained its policy of giving full and fair consideration to all applications for employment, including those made by disabled 
people, taking account of the applicant’s particular aptitude and ability; of seeking to continue to employ anyone who becomes disabled while 
employed by the company and arranging training in a role appropriate to the person’s changed circumstances; and of giving all employees, 
including disabled employees, equal opportunities for training, career development and promotion. 

Corporate governance
The group’s report on corporate governance is set out on pages 24 to 38. That report forms part of this report and is 
incorporated by reference.

AIM
The company’s shares are traded on AIM. There are no other exchanges or trading platforms on which the company has 
applied or agreed to have its shares admitted or traded. 

AGM 
Notice convening the AGM and an explanation of the resolutions being proposed are set out on pages 81 to 85.

 Notifications of major holdings of voting rights  
As at 1 April 2019 the company had been notified of the following holdings of 3% or more of the voting rights in the company: 
Torquil Sligo-Young 
James Young 
Caroline Chelton 
Octopus Investments Nominees Ltd 

Canaccord Genuity Group Inc. 
Lindsell Train Limited 
BlackRock Investment Management (UK) Ltd 
Helena Young 

14.82%
12.99%
11.70%
8.99% 

5.55%
5.28%
<5.00%
3.12%

On 11 April 2019, Octopus Investments Nominees Limited notified the company that their holding had then changed to 
9.01%; on 2 May 2019, it notified the company that its holding had then reverted to 8.99%; on 17 May 2019, it notified the 
company that its holding had then changed to 9.09%. No other changes in the above holdings, and no other holdings of 3% 
or more of the voting rights in the company, had been notified to the company between 2 April 2019 and 20 May 2019, both 
dates inclusive.

Statement of certain responsibilities in relation to the financial statements and otherwise 
For each financial period the directors are required to prepare an annual report (made up of a strategic report and a directors’ report) and 
a set of financial statements. The latter must be prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by 
the European Union (“IFRS”) and applicable law, and must present fairly the financial position of the group and the financial performance 
and cash flows of the group for the relevant period. As regards the company’s financial statements (as opposed to the ones for the group), 
the directors have chosen to prepare them under IFRS too. In preparing the financial statements, the directors have to make judgments 
and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent, select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently, and 
information, including accounting policies, must be presented in a manner that provides relevant, reliable and comparable information. 
There also has to be included a note that the group has complied with IFRS, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in 
the financial statements. Under the Companies Act 2006, the directors are responsible for keeping accounting records which disclose with 
reasonable accuracy, at any time, the financial position of the group and the company at that time and are such to enable them to ensure 
that the financial statements comply with that Act. The directors are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the group and the 
company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Preparation and disclaimer
This annual report, together with the strategic report (on pages 1 to 19) and the financial statements for the period ended  
1 April 2019 have been drawn up and presented for the purpose of complying with English law. Any liability arising out of  
or in connection with them will also be determined in accordance with English law.

By order of the board
ANTHONY SCHROEDER
Company Secretary
22 May 2019

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 23

 
 
 
Corporate governance report

Chairman’s corporate governance statement

As chairman, my main responsibility is the effective 
leadership of the board and the fostering of a good 
corporate governance culture. I am fortunate though to 
have board colleagues equally persuaded of the importance 
of collectively defining, delivering and communicating our 
governance model so as to ensure that good governance 
standards are embraced throughout our business.

Stephen Goodyear, Chairman

This time last year, I wrote to you explaining that a new AIM rule was being 
introduced that would require us to formally apply a recognised corporate 
governance code, provide details of it on our corporate website and then 
explain how we comply with that code and include reasons where we have 
departed from it. I am pleased to confirm that last July the board chose to apply 
The QCA Corporate Governance Code (2018 edition) (the “QCA Code”); this 
was the new and fully updated corporate governance code that the Quoted 
Companies Alliance had released in April.

The choice of code to adopt was important to us. We wanted to be sure that 
we would proactively embrace whatever code we opted for and not end up 
with a code that could stifle us and result, on a comply or explain basis, with us 
describing why certain requirements were not appropriate. A thorough review 
of the impact of the QCA Code on our corporate governance arrangements 
was therefore undertaken and it led us to believe that this particular code 
would provide us with the right governance framework: a flexible but rigorous 
outcome-oriented environment in which we could continue to develop our 
governance model to support our business. 

As it happened, much of what was in the QCA Code was already embedded 
in our governance model, our ways of working and our behaviours. Our 
review of the QCA Code’s impact did, however, highlight board performance 
evaluation as an area where our informal arrangements could be and should 
be enhanced. This is something that I, on behalf of the board, agreed to look 
into in conjunction with our people director, and I’m pleased to refer you to the 
Performance evaluation section on page 31 for details of the performance 
review carried out in the period and the areas that it was felt should be 
changed or could be improved.

At the start of the period, the remuneration committee considered an 
independent report prepared by Deloitte LLP (“Deloitte”) on the remuneration 
packages of the board’s executive directors; the previous independent review 
had been carried out in 2008. The overall conclusion was that the packages 
at chief executive and chief financial officer level were below the market 
competitive range but that the packages for the two other executives were 
within the range. What was done as a result is detailed in the Remuneration 
committee section starting on page 37. 

In December, the board received a recommendation from the audit committee 
that Ernst & Young LLP (“EY”) be re-appointed as the company’s statutory 
auditor for the financial year ending 2020; this followed a comprehensive 
tender process for the group’s statutory audit. Further information on this is in 
the Audit committee section starting on page 33.

As one would expect, the board has a defined strategy of how to grow our 
business, supported by an equally clear business model of how to create long-
term value for shareholders – further detail on these is in the Our strategy 
and business model section on page 4. It is against this background, and a 
mission statement of “delighting our customers with stylish pubs and hotels”, 
that the board makes decisions and manages risk. 

As a board, we set clear expectations concerning the group’s culture and 
values. By way of example, each person starting at one of our pubs receives a 
training journal designed to support them through their induction – this not 
only covers our vision and values, but also explains how we go about caring 
for our customers, right from their decision to come to our pubs through to a 
goodbye at the end of their visits. This is so important if we are to develop our 
people to delight our customers. The learnings from this four-week induction 
programme then become instinctive over a member of staff’s time with us. 

Clear statements of behaviour are also issued by the board. An anti-bribery 
statement is on our corporate website and members of staff are encouraged 
to refer contractors and suppliers to this. We also have an anti-bribery policy. 

24

Both the statement and policy confirm that we have a zero-tolerance stance 
on bribery and they repeat the board’s expectation that everyone behaves 
at all times honestly, professionally, fairly and with integrity. The policy is 
circulated to everyone at Riverside House and to all pub managers; it is also 
printed in each pub employee’s contract of employment. Our slavery and 
human trafficking statement, likewise published on our corporate website, 
also explains to external stakeholders that we seek to conduct our business 
honestly and with integrity at all times and that we recognise that it is not 
acceptable to put profit above the welfare and well-being of our employees 
and those working on our behalf. Steps to combat modern slavery are 
taken seriously, and efforts to prevent abuses are fully embedded across 
all departments throughout our organisation to ensure we play our part in 
helping to stamp out slavery and human trafficking. A whistleblowing policy is 
also in place: this allows staff to raise any concerns in confidence directly with 
the chairman of the audit committee, the company secretary or the group’s 
internal audit manager. Experience to date suggests that this policy is effective 
and staff members are aware of it.

We firmly believe that by encouraging the right way of thinking and behaving 
across all our people, our corporate governance culture is reinforced, enabling 
us to conduct business sustainably and responsibly, drive our premium, 
customer-focussed, people-led strategy and deliver value for our shareholders. 
Within this framework, those managing our pubs are encouraged to be 
entrepreneurial, while supported by policies, processes and an extensive 
training program that assists in protecting the business from unnecessary risk. 

We accept that simply setting expectations is insufficient and so the board 
understands how important it is that it leads by example: it is therefore 
regularly seen out and about engaging with staff, customers and others, and 
the executive team, in particular, communicates regularly with staff through 
meetings and messages and at events. Being seen isn’t always good – however 
hard it may be, sometimes just fading into the background whilst observing 
and listening can be really educational. Our relatively informal approach here 
is supported by more formal processes – we encourage customer feedback 
(both directly to the pubs and via online booking review platforms), have a 
comprehensive customer mystery diner program that sees covert guests give 
detailed comments about their experience and there are also staff appraisals. 
Together, these provide invaluable insight into how we are seen to behave 
and lead the board to believe that the group has a healthy corporate culture 
throughout the business. 

Further details on our corporate governance arrangements (reflecting the 
ten broad principles in the QCA Code and their application) appear in the 
following pages and on our corporate website. With our change of approach to 
performance reviews, I now very much feel that the whole essence of the QCA 
Code is fully reflected and observed in our business. A regular review by me 
with our company secretary will, however, ensure that this remains the case.

To finish, I remain ever aware of the importance of ensuring that we regularly 
engage with you, our shareholders. On page 32 we’ve set out what we do in 
this regard; the AGM is a key part of this and I look forward to meeting with 
you at this year’s AGM in Wandsworth on Tuesday, 9 July 2019.

Stephen Goodyear
Chairman
22 May 2019

For information: an index setting out where to find each of the disclosures 
required to be published by the QCA Code appears at the end of the corporate 
governance information part of the ‘Companies Act and AIM Rules compliance’ 
page within the investors section of www.youngs.co.uk.

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Leadership 
Board composition
Details of the board, including their skills and experience, appear on pages 20 and 21.

The role of the board and its committees

The board
The board is collectively responsible for the success of the company and the business and management of 
the group. Its role includes:

• approving the group’s long-term objectives, commercial strategy and annual budgets;

• approving acquisitions and disposals;

• ensuring maintenance of sound management and internal control systems; and

• overseeing the group’s operations, ensuring competent and prudent management, sound planning,  
  adequate accounting and other records, and compliance with statutory and regulatory obligations.

The board governs through its executive management and via committees, the principal ones of which are 
listed below.

Executive 
committee

Audit 
committee

Remuneration 
committee

Disclosure 
committee

It is responsible for the 
daily running of the 
group and the execution 
of approved policies 
and the business plan. 
It usually meets on 
a weekly basis, with 
members of staff invited 
to attend as appropriate.

Its primary focus is on 
corporate reporting (from 
an external perspective) 
and on monitoring the 
company’s internal control 
and risk management 
systems (from an internal 
perspective). Further 
details on the committee’s 
responsibilities and 
activities are on pages 33 
to 36.

Its primary function 
is to determine, on 
behalf of the board, the 
remuneration packages 
of the executive directors. 
Further details on the 
committee and the 
company’s reward policy 
are on pages 37 and 38.

Its primary function is 
to assist the company 
in making timely and 
accurate disclosure of any 
information required to 
be disclosed in order to 
meet legal and regulatory 
obligations.

Chairman:
Chief executive

Other members:
The other executive 
directors

Chairman:
Roger Lambert

Other members:
Stephen Goodyear
Trish Corzine
Nick Miller
Ian McHoul

Chairman:
Nick Miller

Other members:
Roger Lambert
Trish Corzine

Chairman:
Chief financial officer

Other members:
The other executive 
directors

The terms of reference for the audit, remuneration and disclosure committees can be found in the investors section of 
www.youngs.co.uk. The executive committee has no formal terms of reference.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 25

 
 
 
Corporate governance report

 Continued

Board meetings and activities during the period
Meetings
The board meets every two months, with additional meetings arranged as required. It met nine times during the period, 
excluding the strategy meeting held in the autumn. Most meetings take place at Riverside House; occasionally, they are 
held at one of the group’s pubs, thus providing the board with further opportunities to keep up-to-date with the group’s 
business and how particular pubs are performing.

A formal agenda, made up of regular and other specific business matters, and a supporting pack is provided to each 
member of the board sufficiently in advance of each meeting to ensure there is time for these to be reviewed. The agendas 
are prepared by the company secretary and agreed with the chairman and the chief executive.

Included in the pack for each of the board’s scheduled meetings is a report from the chief executive, a latest forecast, 
a health and safety report, a people report, a property report and details of any material claims against the group. At 
the meetings, the executive directors expand upon what is covered in their reports and the company secretary updates 
the board on matters for which he is responsible. The chairmen of the company’s audit, remuneration and disclosure 
committees also report formally at board meetings on the proceedings of their committees; with some exceptions on 
remuneration matters, the minutes of those committee meetings are also circulated to members of the board.

Autumn strategy meeting
This in-depth meeting gives management and the non-executives an opportunity to discuss a variety of matters. Once 
the strategy is agreed, management is able to build the budgets for the following year and develop longer-term plans. 
J.P. Morgan Cazenove attended this year’s strategy meeting and the key matters covered were:

•  the group’s long-term business plan and a re-affirming of the group’s strategy and business model;

•  the market and acquisition opportunities that could possibly arise;

•  the group’s equity and capital structure; and

•  challenges facing the business.

From time to time, senior managers are invited to attend board meetings to provide updates on developments in their areas  
of responsibility. 

Open and constructive debate in meetings is always encouraged by the chairman and he ensures that matters are challenged 
and discussed before any decision that needs to be made is made. 

The ‘formal’ flow of information in board meetings is in addition to information exchanged outside of those meetings, often in 
relation to ad hoc matters that need considering between meetings. The directors also receive, usually on a weekly basis, the 
group’s sales numbers and, on a monthly basis, a management accounts pack that includes a summary of the group’s financial 
and non-financial performance, sales information for drink and food and the group’s financial position and cash flow. There are 
also regular meetings of non-executives with one or more of the executive directors outside of board meetings. 

The board has a procedure in place such that it can consider and, if it sees fit, authorise situations where a director has an 
interest that conflicts, or may possibly conflict, with the interests of the company; this is set out in article 63 of the company’s 
articles of association.

26

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Matters reserved for the board 
The board has a formal written schedule of matters reserved for its review and approval; this schedule includes those matters 
described in The role of the board and its committees section on page 25 as well as those in the following table.

Category 

Strategy and 
management

Examples

Extension of the group’s activities into new business or geographic areas; cessation of the 
operation of all or any material part of the group’s business.

Structure and capital

Changes relating to the group’s capital structure; major changes to the group’s corporate or 
management and control structure; changes to the company’s listing or its status as a plc.

Financial reporting 
and controls

Approval of the following: annual report and accounts, preliminary announcements of 
results, significant changes in accounting policies or practices, treasury policies, certain 
unbudgeted capital or operating expenditure; declaration or recommendation of 
dividends; review and approval of expenditure authorisation limits.

Contracts

Contracts in the ordinary course of business material strategically or by reason of size; 
contracts not in the ordinary course of business; major investments.

Communication

Approval of resolutions, circulars, prospectuses and press releases concerning matters 
decided by the board.

Board membership 
and other 
appointments

Changes to the structure, size and composition of the board; ensuring adequate 
succession planning for the board and senior management; board appointments; selection 
of the chairman and the chief executive; appointment of the senior independent director; 
membership and chairmanship of board committees; continuation in office of directors; 
appointment or removal of the company secretary; appointment, re-appointment or 
removal of the external auditor to be put to shareholders for approval, following the 
recommendation of the audit committee.

Remuneration

Approving the remuneration policy for the directors; determining the initial remuneration 
of the non-executive directors; introduction of new share incentive plans or major changes 
to existing plans.

Delegation of 
authority

Division of responsibilities between the chairman and the chief executive; establishing 
board committees and approving their terms of reference.

Corporate governance

Undertaking any formal and rigorous review of the board’s own performance, that of 
its committees and individual directors, and the division of responsibilities; determining 
the independence of non-executive directors; review of the group’s overall corporate 
governance arrangements; authorising conflicts of interest where permitted by the 
company’s articles of association.

Policies and 
procedures

Approval of the following: manual on compliance with the AIM Rules and aspects of 
the Market Abuse Regulation, company’s insider list manual, dealing code, anti-bribery 
policy, whistleblowing policy and health and safety policy.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 27

 
 
 
Corporate governance report

 Continued

Board’s key activities during the period 
Generally excluding those matters that come up each year and the autumn strategy meeting (see previously), the board’s key 
activities in the period surrounded:

• a review of the company’s activities as part of its commitment to combatting slavery and human trafficking, culminating in the 

approval of a slavery and human trafficking statement; 

• consideration of the company’s debt structure, leading to the company agreeing to issue, in July 2019, £35 million of 3.30% 

senior secured notes due 2 July 2039 (see note 31);

• the ratification of Steve Robinson’s resignation as chief financial officer and Daniel Quint’s appointment as interim chief 

financial officer;

• the circulation of a letter to shareholders seeking their agreement to the company sending certain communications by email;

• the review and approval of changes to the company’s anti-bribery policy and procedures;

• consideration of the group’s pension scheme and the projects being undertaken to reduce the scheme’s liabilities and  

funding risks;

• a review of the impact of the General Data Protection Regulation on the group’s operations and the approval and adoption  

of group-wide policies; 

• consideration of developments in marketing and plans to drive an increased level of operating profit from the managed 

house division;

• consideration of the acquisition of the Redcomb group;

• a review of the principal risks and uncertainties facing the group; 

• a review of the impact of IFRS 16 (Leases) on the group; 

• consideration and adoption of the QCA Code as part of the group’s corporate governance arrangements, the review and 

adoption of a website corporate governance statement and the carrying out of a board performance evaluation; and

• approval and publication of the company’s tax strategy and its gender pay gap information.

Directors and the company secretary
Roles and responsibilities
There is a clear division of responsibility at the head of the company.

Chairman

Is responsible for:

• leading an effective board;
• fostering a good corporate governance culture; and
• ensuring appropriate strategic focus and direction.

Chief executive

Has overall responsibility for:

• proposing the strategic focus to the board;
• implementing the strategy once approved; and 
• managing the group’s business.

Senior independent director

Executive directors

Acts as a sounding board for, and provides support and 
advice to, the chairman and other board members. Also 
available to shareholders and any of the directors should they 
have a question or concern that cannot be raised through the 
normal channels. 

All have particular roles and areas of responsibility – see 
pages 20 and 21. They are responsible for the day-to-day 
running of the business.

Non-executive directors

Company secretary

Are required, amongst other things, to constructively 
challenge and contribute to the development of strategy, 
to scrutinise the performance of management in meeting 
agreed goals and objectives and to monitor the reporting of 
performance. They play their part by being knowledgeable 
business people who bring a wide range of skills and 
experiences to the board.

Acts as a channel through which the directors, particularly 
the non-executives, gain an understanding of the workings 
of the company. All the directors are entitled to seek advice 
from him and he provides guidance and information to 
all of them. He also plays a key part in helping the board 
ensure that it is aware of, and that the company meets, its 
legal and regulatory obligations. 

28

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Attendance at board and committee meetings

Meeting attendance 

Number of meetings 

Stephen Goodyear 
Patrick Dardis 
Steven Robinson (i) 
Torquil Sligo-Young 
Tracy Dodd 
Roger Lambert 
Trish Corzine 
Nick Miller 
Ian McHoul 

Board 

Audit committee 

Remuneration committee

9 

9 
9 
4 
9 
9 
9 
9 
9 
9 

4 

4 
– 
– 
– 
– 
4 
4 
3 
4 

5

–
–
–
–
–
5
5
5
–

(i)  Steve resigned in December 2018 – he attended all board meetings he was eligible to attend. 

Independence 
The board asserts, based on its experience, that all the non-executive directors act independently in character and judgement.  
It is recognised that only Trish Corzine and Ian McHoul can be considered independent when judged against the UK Corporate 
Governance Code. The board, however, considers Roger Lambert to be independent despite him having served on the board 
for more than 10 years – in reaching this conclusion, the board considered the length of Roger’s period in office, his other 
external commitments, the objective manner in which he has provided support to the chairman and other board members and 
his strength of character and attitude of mind. Nick Miller is also regarded as independent by the board even though he was, up 
until 31 March 2016, a director of the Meantime Brewing Company, a supplier to the group – in looking at Nick’s position, the 
board concluded that there was nothing to suggest that his former directorship was likely to affect, or could appear to affect, his 
judgement, particularly as he did not become a director of the company until after he had left Meantime and he is not involved  
in decisions as regards the group’s supply arrangements. Having recently been the company’s chief executive, Stephen Goodyear 
is not independent.

Balance and size 
The company has appointed Mike Owen as its chief financial officer; he is due to join the board and start this role in September 
2019. Subject to that, in view of the relevant experience, skills and personal qualities and capabilities that each director brings to 
the board (as summarised on pages 20 and 21), the directors consider that the board is well-balanced, has the right number of 
members for the size of the group and that no single person dominates discussions.

Nominations, appointments and inductions
Typically, the chairman and the chief executive lead on the board nomination and appointment process. They consider the balance 
of skills, knowledge and experience on the board and make appropriate recommendations for consideration by the whole board. 
Each board member is invited to meet with the candidate. This process has been used effectively for a number of years and has 
led the board to remain of the view that it should continue to operate in this way rather than through a more formal nomination 
committee. Other senior appointments are made by the chief executive in discussion with the chairman. The importance of 
diversity, including gender balance, is acknowledged in making any appointment – against this background, the board continues 
to believe, however, that appointments should be merit-based against the selection criteria created for any given role.

Subject to the company’s articles of association, shareholders can, by passing an ordinary resolution, appoint any willing person  
as an additional director or as a replacement for another director.

New directors undertake a tailored induction programme, as appropriate, and receive education and training on the AIM Rules 
from the company’s nominated adviser. The company secretary spends time with new directors, ensuring they understand the key 
procedures they need to comply with and he also provides them with an induction pack covering or containing:

• regulatory matters (e.g. the company’s articles of association, the AIM Rules, the company’s manual on compliance with the AIM 

Rules and aspects of the Market Abuse Regulation, the company’s insider list manual and a note on directors’ duties);

• internal policies (e.g. anti-bribery; pub purchases, pub refurbishment projects and schedule of matters reserved for the board);

• internal information (e.g. diary dates and D&O certificates);

• public information (e.g. latest annual and interim reports and any circulars issued in the last 12 months); and

• terms of reference for the audit, remuneration and disclosure committees.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 29

 
 
 
Corporate governance report

 Continued

Re-appointment of directors and notice periods
Once appointed, the company’s articles of association ensure that any new director is subject to re-appointment by the company’s 
voting shareholders at the next AGM – this doesn’t apply to any director at this year’s AGM. Directors are then subject to a 
further re-appointment vote every third AGM after that – this applies to Stephen Goodyear and Patrick Dardis at this year’s AGM. 
Both are seeking re-appointment.

Subject to shareholder re-appointment, the executive directors have been appointed for indefinite periods and are generally entitled 
to not less than one year’s notice if the company wishes to terminate their appointment. In return, the executive directors have to give 
not less than the notice shown in the table below if they wish to leave. 

The non-executive directors have been appointed for fixed terms which are terminable earlier by them or the company giving not 
less than six months’ notice and they are likewise subject to shareholder re-appointment. The expiry dates of their current fixed 
terms are shown in the following table:

Executive 
directors

Notice period  
from the director

Non-executive 
directors

Fixed term  
expiry dates 

Patrick Dardis
Torquil Sligo-Young
Tracy Dodd

One year
Six months
One year

Stephen Goodyear
Roger Lambert
Trish Corzine
Nick Miller
Ian McHoul

3 April 2020 
31 July 2020 
11 January 2021 
3 April 2020 
23 January 2021

Time commitment
The executive directors are expected to devote substantially the whole of their time, attention and ability to their duties, whereas, 
as one would expect, the non-executives have a lesser time commitment. Apart from the chairman, who has agreed to spend 
30-50 days a year on work for the company, it is anticipated that each of the non-executives will dedicate 15 days a year. The 
non-executive directors have all confirmed that they are able to allocate sufficient time to meet the expectations of their role, and 
they are required to obtain the chairman’s agreement (or, in the case of the chairman, the chief executive’s agreement) before 
accepting additional commitments that might affect the time they are able to devote.

Service contracts and letters of appointment
Copies of the executive directors’ service contracts and copies of the letters of appointment of the non-executive directors are 
available for inspection at the company’s registered office.

Training, development and advice
From time to time, the directors, as appropriate, attend training courses, conferences and/or industry forums, read technical 
and other journals and undertake online learning to keep up-to-date on various matters. They also attend relevant specialist 
briefings, some of which form part of board or executive committee meetings. The directors, executive and non-executive, 
regularly spend time out in the trade with fellow directors, shareholders, members of staff, colleagues and friends: this helps 
them to keep up-to-date with the group’s operations, developments in the market and the competition.

Once a year, the company secretary provides education and training to the executive directors on the company’s manual on 
compliance with the AIM Rules and aspects of the Market Abuse Regulation, and to all the directors on the company's dealing 
code. The company's nominated adviser also provides education and training to all the directors annually on the AIM Rules. 

Subject to certain limitations, all the directors are entitled to obtain independent professional advice at the company’s expense.

J.P. Morgan Cazenove and Slaughter and May are long-standing advisers to the board. The former is the company’s nominated adviser 
and joint broker; in its capacity as nominated adviser, it is responsible to the London Stock Exchange for providing advice and guidance 
in relation to the company’s continuing obligations resulting from its admission to AIM. Slaughter and May is an international law firm 
headquartered in London that the board calls on for legal advice and services from time to time. During the period:

• Deloitte provided advice in connection with the remuneration committee’s review of executive director remuneration – further 

detail on this is in the Remuneration committee section starting on page 37; and

• N M Rothschild & Sons Limited and HSBC Bank plc provided advice in connection with the company’s debt structure and  

the company agreeing to issue, in July 2019, £35 million of 3.30% senior secured notes due 2 July 2039 (see note 31).

30

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Performance evaluation
During the period, the board carried out its first formal review of the effectiveness of its performance as a unit, as well as that of its 
committees. Each individual director’s performance was also appraised. This process was led by the chairman, and was conducted 
by him, the senior independent director and the chief executive.

The performance review of the board and its committees involved the completion of a questionnaire on an anonymous basis  
– anonymity was intended to encourage more open and constructive comment. All board members were asked to provide a 
rating (on a scale of 1 - 4) across a variety of criteria concerned with practices and processes relevant to effectiveness; further 
details of these appear in the company’s corporate governance website disclosures that can be found in the investors section of 
www.youngs.co.uk. The completed questionnaires were then submitted to the company secretary who collated and consolidated 
the responses into a report that was first shared with the chairman and subsequently circulated to the other directors. The report 
included all unattributed comments. Overall, the review produced some positive feedback, with a good set of rating scores. At 
the November board meeting, the chairman highlighted specific areas that he considered should be addressed, driven either by 
particular rating scores awarded or comments made. As a result of the review process and an ensuing discussion, the following 
was agreed for the areas that it was felt should be changed or could be improved:

• rather than start the year with a predetermined timetable of presentations, it will be agreed at each board meeting what, if any, 
non-routine presentations should be given at the next meeting – in this way, the presentations received by the board will be 
more pertinent and timely, reflecting ongoing developments in the business;

• presentations on certain topics (for example IT and health and safety) will be given by non-director members of staff – this will 
help the board as a whole, but without straying into the executive’s area of responsibility, to assess the quality and depth of the 
team below board level;

• although the principal risks and uncertainties facing the business will continue to be discussed by the audit committee and by the 
board as a whole as part of its review and sign-off of the annual report, a more formal and separate discussion on this area will 
now be part of each January’s board meeting agenda – this will give this area an increased degree of focus; and

• an annual update will now be provided to the board on senior level succession (i.e. the level below the board) – this will assist 

the board in its thinking as regards succession planning.

The next formal review by the board of the effectiveness of its performance as a unit, as well as that of its committees, is expected 
to be carried out in summer 2020.

As required by its terms of reference, the audit committee also carried out a review of its own performance, as well as its 
constitution and terms of reference to ensure it was operating at maximum effectiveness. No changes were considered necessary. 

The chairman’s performance was appraised by the senior independent director. The chairman appraised the performance of 
the other non-executive directors and the chief executive. The appraisal of the other executive directors was conducted by the 
chief executive; this was in addition to his regular 1:1 meetings with them. As part of the executive appraisal process, individual 
development needs were discussed, as well as areas in which the executives could seek mentoring guidance.

Liability insurance cover for directors and officers 
The company maintains, at its own expense, insurance cover in respect of legal action against its directors and officers.

Risk
The board as a whole oversees risk. With the chief executive having overall responsibility for implementing the group’s strategy, it is 
the executive committee, as a group under his leadership, that is primarily responsible for keeping abreast of developments that may 
affect delivery of that strategy (especially in terms of their likelihood and impact), identifying any mitigating actions that could be taken 
and then ensuring, as far as possible, those actions are taken – here the executive team’s experience and management, collectively 
and individually, is vital. That informal process then feeds through to the whole board when it considers, on an annual basis, the 
list of principal risks (and uncertainties) for inclusion in the company’s annual strategic report (see pages 8 and 9). Additionally, the 
executive committee regularly considers the group’s financial controls memorandum – this comprehensive and internally-focussed 
document identifies a number of finance-related risks and, for each of them, sets out the potential business impact, potential for 
occurrence, what mitigating controls are in place and who within the business has responsibility for managing the control. That 
document is considered by the audit committee before being submitted to the board for approval. Although the board has overall 
responsibility for the group’s systems of internal control and risk management and for reviewing their effectiveness, the audit 
committee performs an important role in monitoring those systems – a summary of what the committee did during the period in this 
regard is in the Audit committee section starting on page 33.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 31

 
 
 
Corporate governance report

 Continued

Shareholders Relations
Copies of the annual report (which includes the notice of AGM) and the interim report are sent to all shareholders and they can 
be downloaded from the investors section of www.youngs.co.uk. Other information for shareholders and interested parties is also 
provided on that website, including the preliminary and half-year results presentations to the City. 

The company has an on-going programme of individual meetings with institutional shareholders and analysts following the 
preliminary and half-year results presentations to the City. These meetings allow the chief executive and the chief financial officer 
to update shareholders on strategy and the group’s performance. Additional meetings with institutional investors and/or analysts 
are arranged from time to time. All board members receive copies of feedback reports from the City presentations and meetings, 
thus keeping them in touch with shareholder opinion.

Stephen Goodyear, Patrick Dardis and Torquil Sligo-Young are the key contacts with the company’s family shareholders, with 
Torquil having a specific part to play in keeping in touch with them. Roger Lambert, as the senior independent director, and the 
other non-executive directors are all willing to engage with shareholders should they have any questions or concerns that are not 
resolved through the normal channels. The company secretary can also be contacted by shareholders on matters of governance 
and investor relations. 

The board supports the use of the AGM to communicate, in particular, with private investors. This meeting is well attended and 
all shareholders are given the opportunity to ask questions and raise issues; this can be done formally during the meeting or 
informally with the directors after it. 

At the AGM, the company proposes a separate resolution on each substantially separate issue. For each resolution, proxy 
appointment forms are issued which provide voting shareholders with the option to vote in advance of the AGM if they are 
unable to attend in person. All valid proxy votes received for the AGM are properly recorded and counted by Computershare, 
the company’s registrar. Voting at the AGM is by a show of hands unless a poll is called for – in this regard, the chairman is 
aware of the possible need to exercise his powers as chairman and demand a poll to ensure that the vote represents the voting 
intentions of those shareholders who have appointed him as proxy, as well as those present at the meeting. As soon as practicable 
after the AGM has concluded, the results of the meeting are released through a regulatory information service and a copy of the 
announcement is posted on the Company News page within the investors section of www.youngs.co.uk. The announcement also 
provides, for information, details of the total number of voting shares in issue and the number of shares in respect of which valid 
proxy appointments were received; a table is included showing the number of votes for and against each resolution and also 
the number within the chairman’s discretion – excluded from the table are abstentions/votes withheld and proxy appointments 
received from holders who appointed someone other than the chairman of the meeting as their proxy.

32

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Audit committee

During the period, the committee continued to focus on 
the appropriateness of the group’s financial reporting, 
the group’s management of risk and systems of internal 
control and the thoroughness of the external and 
internal audit processes. Outside of this, the committee 
conducted a tender for the group’s statutory audit, 
resulting in a recommendation that Ernst & Young LLP 
(“EY”) be re-appointed as auditor.

Roger Lambert, Committee Chairman

Major tasks
During the period, the major tasks undertaken by the committee (in addition to those mentioned below) were:
(cid:53)   a review of the group’s preliminary announcements of interim and final results, and the results themselves, all prior to review by 

the board;

(cid:53)   a review of the group’s systems of internal control and risk management;
(cid:53)   a review of the group’s information systems security management policy;
(cid:53)  the setting of the group’s internal audit plan and the review of various reports prepared by the group’s internal audit manager;
(cid:53)   oversight of EY, the group’s external auditor, to continue the delivery of a robust audit plan; 
(cid:53)   management of a comprehensive tender process for the group’s statutory audit; and 
(cid:53)   an assessment of the impact of the forthcoming adoption of IFRS 16 on the group’s balance sheet and consideration of the 

resulting disclosures to be made in the group’s financial statements.

Committee membership
The committee, chaired by Roger 
Lambert, comprises the board’s five 
non-executive directors. All of them 
served on the committee throughout 
the period. The members of the 
committee consider that they have the 
requisite skills and experience to fulfil 
the committee’s responsibilities.

Committee meetings and attendance
The committee met four times during the period (in May, August, 
November and March) and the table on page 29 sets out each member’s 
attendance record. The chief financial officer/interim chief financial officer 
joined the meetings, as did the company’s audit partner and audit manager 
at EY when the meeting related to the group’s full-year and half-year results 
and also in March. Other senior members of staff joined the meetings, as 
appropriate. As part of the meetings, the committee met separately with the 
group’s internal audit manager and with the company’s audit partner and 
audit manager at EY, in each case without any other member of the group’s 
management present; this gave them the opportunity to raise any concerns 
they had and any issues arising from their work. 

Advice, guidance and information
Formal agendas and reports are provided to the committee a week before its meetings, along with other information to 
enable it to discharge its duties. Amongst the information and reports provided to the committee during the period (other 
than those referred to elsewhere in this section and in the Risk and internal control section) were: full-year and half-year 
review reports prepared by EY; draft engagement and management representation letters; an updated financial controls 
memorandum for approval; the group’s procedures for whistleblowing, detecting fraud and preventing bribery; a schedule 
of non-audit work performed by EY; a schedule of director’s expenses; the group’s stocking policy and supplier rebates 
received; a copy of the committee’s terms of reference and a draft audit timetable.

Areas of responsibility
The committee’s responsibilities are split into four distinct areas, with the following main tasks:

Financial reporting
Monitoring the integrity of the company’s 
financial statements.

Internal control and risk management
Monitoring the integrity, adequacy and effectiveness of the 
company’s internal control and risk management systems.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 33

 
 
 
Corporate governance report

 Continued

Internal audit
Reviewing and approving the company’s internal audit 
plan and monitoring and assessing the effectiveness of 
the company’s internal audit function in the context of 
the company’s overall risk management system.

External audit
Overseeing the company’s relationship with its external auditor, 
reviewing the effectiveness of the company’s external audit 
process and assessing the independence of the company’s 
external auditor.

These and the committee’s other duties are set out in the committee’s terms of reference which can be found in the investors 
section of www.youngs.co.uk.

2018 financial statements – Financial Reporting Council (“FRC”) thematic review 
During the year, the FRC corporate reporting team reviewed the company’s tax and pensions disclosures in its 2018 financial 
statements. The review was a desktop exercise only; no questions or queries were raised in relation to these specific disclosures.

Significant matters considered in relation to the financial statements
The following table sets out what the committee regards as the significant matters considered by it in relation to the group’s 
financial statements and how they were addressed.

Matter 

How addressed

Value of the group’s 
pub estate

Deferred taxation

Acquisition of the 
Redcomb pub group

Supplier rebates

This is by far the largest number on the balance sheet at 1 April 2019 and note 17 on page 64 
explains the valuation exercise undertaken. The committee focussed its attention on understanding 
and challenging the annual valuation exercise and the appropriate accounting approach and 
disclosures; it did this by reviewing the approach, the key assumptions, the valuation reports and 
other documentation analysing the outcome of the exercise. Management’s valuation process was 
also checked by EY, enabling them to confirm to the committee that the valuation exercise was in 
accordance with accounting standards and in line with common practice in the industry. As a result 
of the above, the committee was satisfied that a thorough and robust valuation exercise had been 
undertaken, with appropriate challenges by EY and the committee, and that appropriate values were 
reflected in the balance sheet at 1 April 2019.

Management, with help from the group’s in-house tax manager, made judgements and produced 
detailed calculations supporting the estimated deferred tax movement and year-end balance. The 
workings supported the deferred tax liability on the rollover relief and property revaluations on 
each pub, as well as the treatment of capital losses, indexation and initial recognition exemptions. 
EY audited these calculations and workings. The outcome was that the committee was satisfied 
that the deferred tax provision shown in the balance sheet at 1 April 2019 was appropriate.

During the period, the group acquired the Redcomb pub group for a total cash cost of £31.7 
million. Management performed a preliminary purchase price allocation exercise (“PPA”), with the 
assistance of external experts. The primary element of the PPA assessed the fair value of the 15 
pubs acquired, as well as the fair value of intangible assets, borrowings, contract liabilities, other 
assets and liabilities and deferred tax. EY evaluated whether the assets and liabilities acquired 
were correctly identified and valued and were satisfied that they were complete and accurate. The 
committee ultimately concluded that the disclosures made in the balance sheet at 1 April 2019 are 
in accordance with IFRS 3. 

Management, with help from the group’s director of commercial operations, regularly calculated, 
monitored and reviewed all volumes and applicable discounts – this included monthly and 
quarterly reviews depending on the size of the supplier and also included checking that rebates had 
been correctly recorded within a specific period. Management only recognises these rebates when 
the group has met all relevant obligations – see note 3(t) on page 54. EY audited these rebates: this 
involved (a) understanding management’s processes and controls over the recognition of rebates, 
(b) reviewing a sample of supplier agreements and understanding their key terms, (c) recalculating 
a sample of the rebates and agreeing them to invoices and (d) verifying that rebates had been 
appropriately recorded in the correct period, by reference to supplier statements and post year-end 
settlement. Direct confirmation from a sample of suppliers of their liability to the company was also 
obtained. The overall results of this testing confirmed the committee’s expectation of the likely level 
of rebate due when compared with the previous year and gave it sufficient assurance as to the 
reliability of the process undertaken and the correctness of the amount included within operating 
costs shown in the group income statement for the period ended 1 April 2019.

EY’s audit report on pages 39 to 43 also provides further detail on how the above matters were addressed. 

34

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Non-audit work carried out by EY
The company has a formal policy in respect of non-audit work carried out by EY whilst appointed as the company’s external auditor; this 
is in place to mitigate any risks threatening, or appearing to threaten, EY’s independence and objectivity arising through the provision 
of non-audit services. As a result, the committee has to approve certain new engagements with EY. Other new engagements may be 
approved by the company’s chief financial officer, subject to certain safeguards, including the level of fees payable and the services 
being given by EY not creating a conflict of interest. During the period, the company engaged EY for a limited amount of non-audit 
work which included a review of the group’s interim financial statements. The total fees paid to EY during the period for non-audit fees 
amounted to £37k (14.1% of total fees paid to EY during the period) (2018: £43k and 20.9%). In the committee’s view, the nature and 
extent of the non-audit work carried out by EY did not impair EY’s independence or objectivity.

External auditor: audit tender process and proposed re-appointment of EY 
In August 2018, the committee decided that the group’s statutory audit for the financial year ending 2020 should be put out to 
tender as EY had been in office, as auditor, for more than 15 years. This was a matter of good corporate governance and was 
despite the committee being satisfied with EY’s qualification, objectivity, independence and overall service. Based on best practice 
guidance issued by the Financial Reporting Council, the tender process involved the following:

(cid:53)  EY, along with two other leading firms, were invited to participate;
(cid:53)  access to a data-room was provided – this contained information on the group, its structure and how it operates;
(cid:53)  carousel meetings took place with the group’s senior management enabling an exchange of information about the group and 

the participating firms – feedback to the participating firms was given;
(cid:53)  technology presentations were made to the group’s senior management; 
(cid:53)  written proposals were submitted to the committee for its consideration – these outlined key firm details, resourcing and the 
proposed audit team, audit approach, transition approach and challenges, quality assurance, independence and governance 
and a fee proposal; 

(cid:53)  presentations on audit approach were given to the committee; and 
(cid:53)  participating firms were judged against objective criteria determined in advance of the process.
In mid-December, the committee concluded that it was appropriate to recommend the re-appointment of EY as the company’s 
auditor. EY has expressed its willingness to continue in office and a resolution to re-appoint them will therefore be proposed at the 
forthcoming AGM.

Qualification, objectivity, independence etc. of EY during the period
The committee felt that the qualification, expertise, resources and effectiveness of EY were appropriate in the context of the group 
wanting an effective and high-quality service, and that EY was independent of the group and not reliant on fees from the group. 
The committee concluded that EY’s work had been robust and perceptive, with EY’s reports showing a good understanding of the 
company’s business. As part of its assessment process, the committee had:

(cid:53)  reviewed the audit plan for the period ended 1 April 2019 as regards the activities to be undertaken by EY and EY’s final audit 

results report, and considered how EY had handled the key accounting and audit matters that had arisen;

(cid:53)  been provided with a copy of the Financial Reporting Council’s June 2018 audit quality inspection report in respect of EY and 

a copy of EY’s published transparency report for the UK;

(cid:53)  reviewed an independence report prepared by EY, which contained all significant facts and matters bearing upon EY’s 

independence and objectivity that EY was required to communicate to the company as per the FRC Ethical Standard and ISA 
(UK) 260 “Communication of audit matters with those charged with governance”;

(cid:53)  considered EY’s proposed fees for the group’s audit for the period ended 1 April 2019 and the additional non-audit services 

for that same period; and

(cid:53)  obtained the views of management.
The fees paid to EY for audit services for the financial period ended 1 April 2019 were £0.2 million (2018: £0.2 million).

Risk and internal control
The board has overall responsibility for the group’s systems of internal control and risk management and for reviewing their 
effectiveness. These systems cannot eliminate risk and are therefore designed to manage it – they provide reasonable but not 
absolute assurance and seek to:

• mitigate risks which might cause the failure of business objectives;

• prevent material misstatement or loss;

• help safeguard assets against unauthorised use or disposal;

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 35

 
 
 
Corporate governance report

 Continued

• ensure the maintenance and reliability of proper accounting records and financial information used within the business or for 

publication; and

• help achieve compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

The executive directors are responsible for implementing and maintaining the systems, and the committee assists the board in 
fulfilling its oversight responsibilities by monitoring the systems’ integrity.

The group’s strategic priorities and their connection to the principal risks and uncertainties facing the business are listed on  
page 4. This is not an exhaustive list of all significant risks and uncertainties; some may currently be unknown and others currently 
regarded as immaterial could turn out to be material.

The following is an overview of the main parts of the group’s systems of internal control and risk management:

• clearly defined reporting lines up to the board;

• clearly set levels of authorisation throughout the business;

• a detailed financial controls memorandum;

• the preparation of a comprehensive annual budget and the preparation of a vision document which is reviewed and approved by 

the executive directors and then further reviewed and approved by the board;

• the circulation of monthly management accounts, including commentary on significant variances, updated profit and cash flow 

expectations for the year and actual capital expenditure compared to budget and signed-off sums;

• a detailed investment approval process requiring board authorisation for all pub purchases and major projects (with regular 

performance reviews of invested pubs for a certain period post-investment);

• board approval for disposals;

• regular reporting of legal and accounting developments to the board;

• regular circulation of, and assessment of Riverside House employees’ understanding of, the group’s anti-bribery policy; 

• the group’s internal audit function and the group’s in-house team of retail auditors; and

• on-going health and safety audits and monitoring of accident statistics, with audit results being a standing item at board meetings.

The group’s internal audit manager reports to both the company secretary and the chief financial officer/interim chief financial 
officer and is independent of the areas which he reviews. During the period, the internal audit manager tested various controls 
contained in the financial controls memorandum to assess their effectiveness. The results of his work were shared with the 
executive directors concerned and with the committee. With that committee’s approval, changes were then made to the financial 
controls memorandum. The internal audit manager also carried out internal reviews of financial, compliance and operational 
areas according to a programme set by the committee following input from the chief financial officer. His review reports, the 
management responses and the recommended actions, were presented to the committee. Management may supplement the 
internal resource for these reviews with specialist external resources; however, none were perceived as being required during the 
period, although external advice is being sought in relation to cyber threats. 

The group’s in-house team of retail auditors is led by an experienced member of the group’s finance team and is responsible for 
co-ordinating the audits as well as performing some of them. The rest of the team have relevant experience, whether that be from 
having worked in the finance department or in one or more pubs; in each case, the person performing the audit is independent of 
the area that is the subject of the audit. Throughout the period, this team monitored the controls in place in the group’s managed 
pubs and hotels, in particular those covering stock and cash.

The group has business continuity arrangements in place with third parties. It also has business continuity plans for each of the 
departments within Riverside House.

The group has a whistleblowing policy that is overseen by the committee. This policy allows staff to raise any concerns in 
confidence directly with the chairman of the committee, the company secretary or the group’s internal audit manager. Experience 
to date suggests that this policy is effective and staff members are aware of it.

36

Remuneration committee

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

The committee’s primary function is to determine the 
remuneration packages of the executive directors. 
This is in the context of the company’s reward policy, 
the principal objective of which is the recruitment 
and retention of officers with appropriate skills and 
qualities to drive the company’s strategy and deliver 
value for shareholders.

Nick Miller, Committee Chairman

Primary function
The committee’s primary function is to determine the 
remuneration packages of the executive directors. This is in the 
context of the company’s reward policy, the principal objective 
of which is the recruitment and retention of officers with 
appropriate skills and qualities to drive the company’s strategy 
and deliver value for shareholders.

Terms of reference
The committee’s duties are set out in its terms of  
reference which can be found in the investors section  
of www.youngs.co.uk.

Committee membership, meetings  
and attendance
The committee comprises three of the board’s non-executive 
directors. It is chaired by Nick Miller; the other two members 
are Roger Lambert and Trish Corzine. All of them served on 
the committee throughout the period. The committee met 
five times during the period and the table on page 29 sets 
out each member’s attendance record. During the period, 
Patrick Dardis, in his capacity as chief executive, was invited 
to provide input to the committee when it considered the 
performance of the other executive directors.

Advice, guidance and information
During the period, Deloitte helped the committee in its review 
of the remuneration arrangements of the executive directors – 
for further detail, see the Remuneration: executive directors 
section below. More generally, advice and guidance is 
provided by the company secretary. Where possible, agendas 
and supporting papers are provided to the committee a week 
before its meetings – the following were amongst the papers 
provided to the committee during the period:

• an independent report prepared by Deloitte on the 

• a pack of financial information and proposed personal 
objectives to help the committee set the performance 
conditions applicable to the executive directors’ performance-
related bonus awards for FY2018/19; and

• the December 2018 edition of ‘FTSE AIM Directors’ 

Remuneration’ published by FIT Remuneration Consultants 
LLP to help the committee to set the executive directors’ 
basic salaries for FY2019/20.

Remuneration: executive directors
Against the background of the company’s reward policy, the 
committee decided a number of years ago that total remuneration 
levels for the executive directors should be in line with the 
market for the performance achieved, with an element of the 
total remuneration varying according to achievement of key 
performance targets. The main elements of the executives’ reward 
packages therefore comprise:

• a basic salary;

• a range of benefits, including life assurance, regular medical 
check-ups, a car scheme/allowance (at levels set in 2008), 
private medical insurance and a pension (see note 8(b) on 
page 57); and

• to satisfy the ‘variable’ element, a stretching deferred annual 

bonus scheme.

The bonus awards are subject to caps equal to either 125% 
of basic annual salary (Patrick Dardis) or 100% of basic 
annual salary (Torquil Sligo-Young and Tracy Dodd). The 
key performance targets relevant to the bonus scheme for 
FY2018/19 (and the extent of the award dependent on each 
target, expressed as a percentage of basic annual salary) were 
as follows:

Financial performance  
targets 

Personal
objectives 

remuneration packages of the board’s executive directors;

Patrick Dardis 

• a pack of financial and other information to help the 

Torquil Sligo-Young 

committee determine the extent to which the financial 
performance and other conditions for the executive directors’ 
performance-related bonuses for FY2017/18 had been met;

Tracy Dodd 

125% 

50% 

50% 

– 

50% 

50% 

Total 

125%

100%

100%

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 37

 
 
 
 
 
Corporate governance report

 Continued

The financial performance targets were linked to adjusted 
profit before tax, like-for-like sales growth and return on 
capital employed. The inclusion of personal objectives for 
Torquil Sligo-Young and Tracy Dodd recognised the specific 
executive roles and responsibilities they have. The targets 
and objectives are confidential; they have not therefore been 
included in this report. 

The committee believes that the bonus scheme supports 
the company’s strategy and business plan by incentivising 
the executive directors in a way that is aligned with both the 
group’s long-term financial performance and the interests of 
shareholders – note 27(a) starting on page 76 provides further 
details of how the scheme operates. 

With the last independent review of executive remuneration 
having been carried out in 2008, the committee had become 
conscious that the executives’ remuneration levels might have 
fallen out of line with the market for the performance achieved; 
this was especially so bearing in mind that, since that time, the 
company had delivered sustained, strong performance and 
growth, outperformed sector peers and had seen its revenue 
and market capitalisation grow by c. 120% and c. 190% 
respectively. The committee had therefore asked Deloitte 
to undertake a review of total compensation arrangements 
from a number of perspectives (including benchmarking, 
review of structures against market practice, positioning and 
performance) and to set out potential approaches. The market 
positioning assessment was carried out against companies of a 
similar size to the company by market capitalisation, as well as, 
in the case of the positions of chief executive and chief financial 
officer, sector peers (brewing/hospitality companies). 

The committee met with Deloitte to discuss its findings shortly 
after the start of the period; this resulted in some follow-up work 
that then enabled the committee to decide on the executives’ 
packages for FY2018/19. Although instructive, the market 
data reported by Deloitte was not looked at in isolation – the 
executives were considered by the committee on an individual 
basis, together with their performance in their role, as well as the 
then current environment and company performance.

As a result, the committee felt, supported by the work 
undertaken by Deloitte, that the packages at chief executive 
and chief financial officer level were below the market 
competitive range. Taking into account the performance 
and growth of the company and the fact that the executive 
remuneration framework had remained unchanged for the 
last ten years, the committee considered that it would be 
reasonable to include a step change increase in their overall 
remuneration. The structure and design of the deferred annual 
bonus scheme was largely left untouched as it was considered 
to continue to be aligned to the company’s strategy and 
culture: in particular, the requirement for the executives to 
actively commit to purchase shares (to get the full potential 
from the scheme) enhances alignment to shareholders. 

38

Therefore, to address the competitiveness of the packages, the 
committee instead revised significantly the basic salaries of the 
chief executive and chief financial officer. The basic salaries for 
Torquil Sligo-Young and Tracy Dodd were raised broadly in line 
with inflation. The salary increases were effective from 1 April 
2018. In making the increases, the committee was aware of the 
annual pay review that the executive committee had carried 
out for staff at Riverside House. 

The committee believes that the company’s reward policy as 
regards the executive directors is consistent with the group’s 
risk management policy as it does not encourage inappropriate 
risks to be taken to achieve the performance targets; the focus 
is very much on a long-term remuneration model. 

Details of the remuneration of each executive director who 
was in office during the period appear in note 8(b) on page 
57. Details of pension benefits, other benefits (principally car-
related (which can be taken in cash and if this is done they 
are then shown as part of a director’s basic salary and fees) 
and private medical insurance) and interests in the company’s 
savings-related share option scheme are in notes 8(b) and 8(e) 
respectively, on pages 57 and 58 respectively. No executive 
director is involved in deciding their own remuneration.

Remuneration: non-executives
The initial remuneration of the non-executive directors is 
determined by the board, but any fee increase is decided by 
the executive committee, with the intention being that the 
fees paid are not out of line with the market and go some 
way towards rewarding the non-executives for the time 
they commit to the business. Accordingly, all non-executive 
directors receive a basic fee; generally, they do not participate 
in bonus schemes or share options and they are not members 
of any group pension scheme other than for the purposes of 
complying with pension auto-enrolment legislation. As a result 
of having been an executive director, Stephen Goodyear still 
holds shares under the deferred annual bonus scheme (see 
note 27(a) starting on page 76) and is a pensioner member 
of the group’s defined benefit pension scheme – during the 
period, he exercised his remaining SAYE share option (see 
note 27 on page 75). The non-executive directors are entitled 
to be reimbursed for certain business-related expenses. Details 
of the remuneration of the non-executive directors appear in 
note 8(b) on page 57.

By order of the board
AN THO NY  SC HRO ED ER
Company Secretary
22 May 2019

Independent auditor’s report

For the 52 weeks ended 1 April 2019

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Independent auditor’s report to the members of Young & Co.’s Brewery, P.L.C.
Opinion
In our opinion:

Group income statement for 
the 52 weeks then ended

Statement of changes in equity 
for the 52 weeks then ended

Audit scope

• Young & Co.’s Brewery, P.L.C.’s group financial statements and 

parent company financial statements (the “financial statements”) give 
a true and fair view of the state of the group’s and of the parent 
company’s affairs as at 1 April 2019 and of the group’s profit for the 
52 week period then ended;

• the group financial statements have been properly prepared in 

accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the European Union;

• the parent company financial statements have been properly 

prepared in accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the European 
Union and as applied in accordance with the provisions of the 
Companies Act; and

• the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the 

requirements of the Companies Act 2006. 

We have audited the financial statements of Young & Co.’s Brewery, 
P.L.C. which comprise:

Group 

Parent company

Group balance sheet  
as at 1 April 2019

Balance sheet as at 1 April 2019

Statement of cash flow for  
the 52 weeks then ended 

Group statement of 
comprehensive income for  
the 52 weeks then ended

Group statement of changes  
in equity for the 52 weeks  
then ended

Group statement of cash flow 
for the 52 weeks then ended

Related notes 1 to 32 to the 
financial statements, including 
a summary of significant 
accounting policies

The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their 
preparation is applicable law and International Financial Reporting 
Standards (IFRSs) as adopted by the European Union and, as regards 
to the parent company financial statements, as applied in accordance 
with the provisions of the Companies Act 2006.

Basis for opinion 
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards 
on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities 
under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s 
responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our 
report below. We are independent of the group and parent company 
in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our 
audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical 
Standard as applied to listed entities, and we have fulfilled our other 
ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and 
appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern
We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in 
relation to which the ISAs (UK) require us to report to you where: 

• the directors’ use of the going concern basis of accounting in the 

preparation of the financial statements is not appropriate; or

• the directors have not disclosed in the financial statements any 
identified material uncertainties that may cast significant doubt 
about the group’s or the parent company’s ability to continue to 
adopt the going concern basis of accounting for a period of at least 
twelve months from the date when the financial statements are 
authorised for issue.

Overview of our audit approach

Key audit 
matters

• Valuation of the pub estate
• Deferred tax arising on the valuation of the 

pub estate 

• Redcomb Pubs preliminary purchase price 

allocation (new risk for 2019)

• Supplier rebates
• Management override in the recognition  

of revenue

• We performed an audit of the complete 
financial information of the group, which 
accounted for 100% of profit before 
taxation and exceptional items, 100% of 
revenue and 100% of total assets

Materiality

• Overall group materiality of £2.2 million, 
which represents 5% of profit before 
taxation and exceptional items

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

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 39

Independent auditor’s report

Continued

Valuation of the group’s pub estate

Refer to the Audit Committee Report (page 33); accounting policies (page 51); and note 17 of the group financial statements (page 64).

In accordance with the group’s accounting policy for property and equipment, management applies the revaluation model for the pub estate, 
which had a carrying value of £807.0 million at 1 April 2019 (2018: £742.9 million). As permitted by IAS 16 and in common with other listed 
pub operators in the UK, this revaluation was achieved through:

• A reassessment of the fair maintainable trade of each pub based on its current and forecast trading performance, or a spot valuation; 

• A revaluation by Sian Tunney, a valuation specialist at Savills, independent chartered surveyors, of a representative sample of 20% of the group’s 

pubs, including pubs of varying tenure, location and type; and 

• A revaluation of the remaining 80% of the pub estate internally, led by Andrew Cox, the group’s director of property and tenancies, using 

updated trading results, management’s knowledge of each pub, and appropriate consideration of the results of the external valuation.

This involves significant management judgement, particularly in respect of the methodology and assumptions used in the valuation model. 
Management also assesses viable alternative uses for a property should they provide increased value.

Our response to the risk

We performed a walkthrough of each aspect of the group’s pub valuation process and assessed the design effectiveness of the key controls that 
were in place. 

We met with management and the group’s external valuation specialists to discuss their valuation approach and the judgements made in 
determining the fair value of the pub estate. These included the fair maintainable trade, EBITDA multiples and spot valuations. 

We assessed the competence and objectivity of the external valuer including consideration of its qualifications and expertise.

We tested management’s valuation model for mathematical accuracy and consistency with underlying records. This included an assessment 
of the fair maintainable trade of each pub by reference to the group’s financial records, management’s historical forecasting accuracy, and its 
consideration of the external valuation results on the remainder of the estate. 

Of the group’s 222 freehold and long leasehold pubs, with support from our property valuations specialists we tested a sample of 66 pub 
valuations. We performed testing over the underlying valuation assumptions, with a particular focus on pubs valued using a spot valuation as these 
involved a higher level of management judgement. 

We benchmarked the group’s pub valuations by comparing with other pub market transactions. 

We verified that changes in pub valuations were appropriately accounted for through the revaluation reserve or the income statement. 

We considered the appropriateness of the valuation disclosures in note 17 of the group financial statements and whether they were compliant with 
the fair value information required under IFRS 13.

Scope of our procedures
We performed full scope audit procedures over the valuation of the group’s entire pub estate.

Key observations communicated to the Audit Committee
We executed our procedures as planned and we consider the valuation to be appropriate and on a consistent basis to 2018. There is also 
appropriate disclosure on the pub estate valuation in note 17 to the group financial statements.

Deferred tax on the group’s pub estate

Refer to the Audit Committee Report (page 33); accounting policies (page 51); and note 23 of the group financial statements (page 72).

There is complexity in the group’s accounting for deferred tax and, specifically, a significant level of management judgement is required in 
accounting for deferred tax arising on the valuation of the pub estate. 

Both management judgement and complex calculations are required to estimate the deferred tax arising in respect of the valuation of each 
pub. These judgements are focused on:

-  the treatment of capital losses, rollover relief, indexation allowances and initial recognition exemptions;

- recognising deferred tax on the pubs on a sale, in-use or a dual basis; and

-  recognising the deferred tax at the correct corporation tax rate, depending on the underlying assumptions.
Our response to the risk

We performed a walkthrough of the group’s process for determining the deferred tax arising from the valuation of the pub estate. We also assessed 
the design effectiveness of the key controls that were in place. 

In conjunction with our tax specialists we tested the deferred tax calculations based on the valuation of each pub. This focused on verifying the inputs 
into the deferred tax calculation, testing its mathematical accuracy and recalculating the deferred tax for a sample of pubs across the estate. This 
included a review of capital losses, rollover relief, indexation allowances and initial recognition exemptions. 

We challenged management on the assumptions used in calculating the deferred tax balances, including whether the deferred tax was consistent with 
the group’s intended use of each pub – being a sale, in-use or a dual basis.

We evaluated if the tax rates applied in calculating the deferred tax on the group’s pub estate were appropriate based on when the balances are 
expected to unwind. 

We considered whether the related deferred tax disclosures, included in note 23 to the group financial statements, were in line with IAS 12 requirements.

Scope of our procedures
We performed full scope audit procedures over all the group’s deferred tax on the group’s pub estate.

Key observations communicated to the Audit Committee
We considered management’s judgements in the recognition of deferred tax arising on the valuation of the pub estate to be appropriate and 
consistent with 2018. We also consider that the disclosures in note 23 to the group financial statements are appropriate.

40

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Redcomb Pubs preliminary purchase price allocation (new risk for 2019)

Refer to the Audit Committee Report (page 33); accounting policies (page 51); and note 13 of the group financial statements (page 61).

In January 2019 the group acquired Redcomb Pubs for a total cash cost of £31.7 million, on a cash and debt-free basis. The acquisition 
was accounted for as a business combination and involved a number of significant and complex judgements, particularly in identifying and 
determining the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed.

Management performed a preliminary purchase price allocation exercise, assisted by external experts. The primary element of the valuation 
exercise assessed the fair value of the 15 pubs acquired. The allocation also considered the fair values of intangible assets, borrowings, contract 
liabilities, other assets and liabilities and deferred tax. The remaining consideration was recognised as goodwill.

This is a new key audit matter in the current year.

Our response to the risk

We performed a walkthrough of the group’s process for determining the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, including the 
completeness of those assets and liabilities, and assessed the design effectiveness of the key controls that were in place. 

We read the Sale and Purchase Agreement to corroborate the group’s accounting conclusions and identify any clauses that could have an 
accounting impact. 

We assessed the group’s considerations as to whether acquired leasehold pubs should be accounted for as finance or operating leases under  
IAS 17 Leases.

For freehold pubs and leasehold pubs accounted for as finance leases, we obtained the group’s external expert’s reports supporting the value  
of the pubs and performed the same procedures as we describe for the “valuation of the pub estate” key audit matter.

For leasehold pubs accounted for as operating leases, we involved our valuation specialists to assist us in assessing the appropriateness  
of the methodology and the key assumptions applied to value the assets and liabilities acquired.

For other assets acquired and liabilities assumed, we evaluated the group’s methodology, assumptions and estimates used in determining  
the fair value.

We evaluated the competence and independence of the experts used by the group by reference to their qualifications and experience.

We evaluated whether appropriate disclosures are included in the group financial statements.

Scope of our procedures
We performed full scope audit procedures over the entire acquisition.

Key observations communicated to the Audit Committee
We evaluated that the preliminary identification and valuation of assets and liabilities acquired was complete and accurate, and that the disclosures 
made in the financial statements are in accordance with IFRS 3.

Supplier rebates

Refer to the Audit Committee Report (page 33) and accounting policies (page 51).

The group earns supplier income through purchase volume discounts and stocking incentives. Stocking incentives are received through holding 
certain products within a pub and are set at a fixed amount. Purchase volume discounts are received based on the number of units purchased 
from suppliers. 

Given the quantum of supplier rebates as a percentage of the group’s profit and the risk of incorrect cut-off applied around the year end, we 
consider there to be a risk over this figure. This is focused on any changes to volume discounts and stocking incentive arrangements and the 
recognition of rebates in the appropriate period.

Our response to the risk

We performed a walkthrough of the group’s process over the recognition of volume discounts and stocking incentives and assessed the design 
effectiveness of the key controls that were in place. 

For a sample of supplier arrangements, we agreed key terms used to calculate the rebate to external confirmation and recalculated amounts recorded. 

We verified that rebates have been appropriately recorded in the correct period through cut-off testing at the year end. 

We evaluated management’s year end rebate estimates by considering the outturn of prior period rebate estimates. 

We assessed the recoverability of unsettled rebates with reference to historical settlements, the group’s relationships with its suppliers and post year 
end settlements.

Scope of our procedures
We performed full scope audit procedures over all of the group’s supplier rebates.

Key observations communicated to the Audit Committee
We considered the supplier rebate income recognised in the year to be appropriate, given the contractual arrangements in place.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 41

Independent auditor’s report

Continued

Management override in the recognition of revenue

Refer to the Audit Committee Report (page 33) and accounting policies (page 51).

The vast majority of the group’s revenue transactions are non-complex, with no judgement applied over the amount recorded. 

We consider the significant risk relating to revenue to be around management override of controls and topside journals to revenue in the 
managed and tenanted estate. 

For managed houses, revenue is typically comprised of a large number of low-value transactions. Although there is little management judgement 
involved, there is a risk that manual topside adjustments could be posted which could result in revenue being overstated or sales not being 
recorded. For the Ram Pub Company (tenanted pubs) there is also a risk that manual topside adjustments could be posted to revenue.

The group also adopted IFRS 15 for revenue recognition from 3 April 2018. Based on its detailed assessment and given the nature of the 
group’s revenue, with the vast majority of transactions settled at the point of consumption, management concluded that the adoption of IFRS 
15 has no material impact on the group.

Our response to the risk

We performed a walkthrough of each of the group’s significant revenue processes, including the recording of manual journal adjustments, and 
assessed the design effectiveness of the key controls that were in place. 

We applied correlation data analysis over the group’s revenue journal population to identify how much of the revenue is converted to cash 
and to isolate non-standard revenue transactions for further analysis. 

We identified manual journals to revenue and obtained corroborative evidence to support them. 

We performed cut-off testing procedures including review of post period end cash receipts and journals and an analytical review  
of significant variances.

We understood management’s process for assessing the impact of the adoption of IFRS 15, including validating key assumptions and 
conclusions to underlying contracts where appropriate.

Scope of our procedures
We performed full scope audit procedures over all of the group’s revenue.

Key observations communicated to the Audit Committee
We did not identify any instances of management override of controls, including through topside journals. Based on our work, which included 
using data analysis tools to examine the correlation of 100% of the group’s revenue to cash receipts, we consider that revenue is fairly stated.  
We also agree with management’s conclusion that the adoption of IFRS 15 has not had a material impact on the group.

An overview of the scope of our audit
Tailoring the scope
Our assessment of audit risk, our evaluation of materiality and our 
allocation of performance materiality determine our audit scope for 
each entity within the group. Taken together, this enables us to form 
an opinion on the consolidated financial statements.

The group’s operations are based solely in the United Kingdom with  
a single head office finance function and therefore all audit procedures 
are completed by one audit team at this location. The audit team 
includes tax and IT specialists.

In assessing the risk of material misstatement to the group financial 
statements, and to ensure we had adequate quantitative coverage of 
significant accounts in the financial statements we performed full scope 
audit procedures over 100% of the group’s results for the 52 weeks to  
1 April 2019 and 100% of the group’s total assets at that date. We obtained 
an understanding of the entity-level controls of the group which assisted 
us in identifying and assessing risks of material misstatement due to fraud 
or error, as well as assisting us in determining the most appropriate  
audit strategy.
Our application of materiality
We apply the concept of materiality in planning and performing the 
audit, in evaluating the effect of identified misstatements on the audit 
and in forming our audit opinion.
Materiality
The magnitude of an omission or misstatement that, individually or in 
the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to influence the economic 
decisions of the users of the financial statements. Materiality provides  
a basis for determining the nature and extent of our audit procedures.

We determined materiality for the group to be £2.2 million (2018: 
£2.0 million), which is 5% (2018: 5%) of profit before taxation 

and exceptional items. We believe that profit before taxation and 
exceptional items is considered to be the primary area of focus of  
the group’s stakeholders. We exclude the impact of exceptional items, 
as they are non-recurring items which do not reflect the underlying 
trading performance of the group.

• Profit before taxation – £39.5 million

Starting  
basis

• Exceptional items before taxation  

Adjustments

– £3.9 million

• Profit before taxation and exceptional items 

– £43.4 million (materiality basis)

Materiality

• Materiality of £2.2 million  
(5% of materiality basis)

During the course of our audit, we reassessed initial materiality  
and did not make any changes based on final results.
Performance materiality
The application of materiality at the individual account or balance 
level. It is set at an amount to reduce to an appropriately low level 
the probability that the aggregate of uncorrected and undetected 
misstatements exceeds materiality.

On the basis of our risk assessments, together with our assessment 
of the group’s overall control environment, our judgement was 
that performance materiality was 75% (2018: 75%) of our planning 
materiality, namely £1.6 million (2018: £1.5 million). We have maintained 
performance materiality at this percentage reflecting the results of our 
testing of the group’s systems and processes and historical audit findings.

42

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

•  certain disclosures of directors’ remuneration specified by law are 

not made; or

•  we have not received all the information and explanations we 

require for our audit.

Responsibilities of directors
As explained more fully in the directors’ responsibilities statement set 
out on page 23, the directors are responsible for the preparation of 
the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true 
and fair view, and for such internal control as the directors determine 
is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are 
free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. 

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

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

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

Use of our report
This report is made solely to the company’s members, as a body,  
in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006.  
Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the 
company’s members those matters we are required to state to them 
in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent 
permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone 
other than the company and the company’s members as a body, for 
our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Reporting threshold
An amount below which identified misstatements are considered  
as being clearly trivial.

We agreed with the Audit Committee that we would report to them 
all uncorrected audit differences in excess of £0.1 million (2018: 
£0.1 million), which is set at 5% of planning materiality, as well as 
differences below that threshold that, in our view, warranted reporting 
on qualitative grounds.

We evaluate any uncorrected misstatements against both the 
quantitative measures of materiality discussed above and in light of 
other relevant qualitative considerations in forming our opinion.
Other information 
The other information comprises the information included in the 
annual report, other than the financial statements and our auditor’s 
report thereon. The directors are responsible for the  
other information.  

Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other 
information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in this 
report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. 

In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our 
responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, 
consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent 
with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit 
or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such 
material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are 
required to determine whether there is a material misstatement 
in the financial statements or a material misstatement of the other 
information. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude 
that there is a material misstatement of the other information, we are 
required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the 
Companies Act 2006
In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit:

•  the information given in the strategic report and the directors’ 
report for the financial year for which the financial statements  
are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and

•  the strategic report and directors’ report have been prepared  

in accordance with applicable legal requirements.

Matters on which we are required to  
report by exception
In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the group and  
the parent company and its environment obtained in the course of  
the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the 
strategic report or the directors’ report.

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

•  adequate accounting records have not been kept by the parent 

company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received 
from branches not visited by us; or

•  the parent company financial statements are not in agreement with 

Jon Killingley (Senior statutory auditor)
for and on behalf of Ernst & Young LLP, Statutory Auditor
London
22 May 2019

the accounting records and returns; or

Notes:

1.  The maintenance and integrity of the Young & Co.’s Brewery, P.L.C. website is the responsibility of the directors; the work carried out  
by the auditors does not involve consideration of these matters and, accordingly, the auditors accept no responsibility for any changes 
that may have occurred to the financial statements since they were initially presented on the website.

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

in other jurisdictions.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 43

Group income statement

For the 52 weeks ended 1 April 2019

Revenue 
Operating costs before exceptional items 

Operating profit before exceptional items 
Operating exceptional items 

Operating profit 

Finance costs 
Other finance charges 

Profit before tax 
Taxation 

Profit for the period attributable to shareholders of the parent company 

Earnings per 12.5p ordinary share
Basic 
Diluted 

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

2019 
£m 

303.7 
(255.2) 

48.5 
(3.9) 

44.6 

(5.0) 
(0.1) 

39.5 
(8.0) 

31.5 

2018
£m

279.3
(232.4)

46.9
(3.4)

43.5

(5.6)
(0.3)

37.6
(7.5)

30.1

Notes 

6 
7 

9 

11 
24 

12 

Pence 

Pence

15 
15 

64.36 
64.31 

61.60
61.56

All of the results above are from continuing operations.

The notes on pages 50 to 79 form part of these financial statements.
The independent auditor’s report is set out on pages 39 to 43.

44

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Group statement of comprehensive income

For the 52 weeks ended 1 April 2019

Notes 

Profit for the period 

Other comprehensive income 

Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss: 
Unrealised gain on revaluation of property 
Remeasurement of retirement benefit schemes 
Tax on above components of other comprehensive income 

17 
24 

Items that will be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss: 
Fair value movement of interest rate swaps 
Tax on fair value movement of interest rate swaps 

22 

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

2019 
£m 

31.5 

2018
£m

30.1

25.3 
(1.2) 
(3.2) 

0.5 
(0.1) 

21.3 

29.2
5.8
(4.5)

4.3
(0.7)

34.1

Total comprehensive income for shareholders of the parent company 

52.8  

64.2

All of the results above are from continuing operations.

The notes on pages 50 to 79 form part of these financial statements.
The independent auditor’s report is set out on pages 39 to 43.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 45

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance sheets

At 1 April 2019

Non-current assets
Goodwill and intangible assets 
Property and equipment 
Investment in subsidiaries 
Deferred tax assets 
Lease premiums 

Current assets
Inventories 
Trade and other receivables 
Lease premiums 
Cash 

Total assets 

Current liabilities
Borrowings 
Derivative financial instruments 
Trade and other payables 
Income tax payable 

Non-current liabilities
Borrowings 
Derivative financial instruments 
Deferred tax liabilities 
Retirement benefit schemes 
Other liabilities 

Total liabilities 

Net assets 

Capital and reserves
Share capital 
Share premium 
Capital redemption reserve 
Hedging reserve 
Revaluation reserve 
Retained earnings 

Total equity 

Notes 

16 
17 
18 
23 

19 
20 

22 
22 
21 

22 
22 
23 
24 
25 

26 

 Group 

 Company

2018 
£m 

19.7 
742.9 
– 
6.4 
13.6 

782.6 

3.0 
7.0 
0.8 
7.2 

18.0 

800.6 

(10.0) 
(1.9) 
(30.9) 
(4.3) 

(47.1) 

(137.7) 
(4.7) 
(54.6) 
(6.1) 
(1.2) 

(204.3) 

(251.4) 

549.2 

6.1 
5.7 
1.8 
(5.2) 
273.3 
267.5 

549.2 

2019 
£m 

1.9 
777.7 
35.8 
7.4 
4.8 

827.6 

3.4 
24.5 
0.3 
8.2 

36.4 

864.0 

(8.5) 
(1.9) 
(39.9) 
(4.4) 

2018
£m

1.9
737.6
35.7
6.4
5.2

786.8

3.0
8.6
0.3
7.2

19.1

805.9

(10.0)
(1.9)
(88.2)
(4.2)

(54.7) 

(104.3)

(163.6) 
(4.2) 
(57.9) 
(8.6) 
(0.5) 

(234.8) 

(289.5) 

574.5 

6.1 
6.7 
1.8 
(4.8) 
286.2 
278.5 

574.5 

(137.7)
(4.7)
(54.6)
(6.1)
(1.2)

(204.3)

(308.6)

497.3

6.1
5.7
1.8
(5.2)
264.4
224.5

497.3

2019 
£m 

33.5 
807.0 
– 
7.4 
12.9 

860.8 

3.7 
8.3 
0.7 
8.5 

21.2 

882.0 

(8.5) 
(1.9) 
(35.9) 
(4.8) 

(51.1) 

(163.6) 
(4.2) 
(60.6) 
(8.6) 
(0.5) 

(237.5) 

(288.6) 

593.4 

6.1 
6.7 
1.8 
(4.8) 
295.1 
288.5 

593.4 

The company’s profit after tax for the period was £64.5 million (2018: £23.7 million).

Approved by the board of directors and signed on its behalf by:

Patrick Dardis 
22 May 2019

Chief Executive

The notes on pages 50 to 79 form part of these financial statements.
Young & Co.’s Brewery, P.L.C. registered in England number 32762.

46

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Statements of cash flow

For the 52 weeks ended 1 April 2019

Operating activities 

Net cash generated from operations 
Tax paid 

Net cash flow from operating activities 

Investing activities 
Sale of property and equipment 
Purchases of property, equipment and lease premiums 
Business combinations, net of cash acquired 
Investment in subsidiaries 

Net cash used in investing activities 

Financing activities 
Interest paid 
Issued equity 
Equity dividends paid 
Repayment of borrowings 
Proceeds from borrowings 

Net cash flow used in financing activities 

Increase in cash 
Cash at the beginning of the period 

Cash at the end of the period 

Notes 

29 

17 
13 

14 

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

 Group 

 Company

2019 
£m 

2018 
£m 

2019 
£m 

69.2 
(9.2) 

60.0 

1.3 
(33.9) 
(25.3) 
– 

(57.9) 

(5.1) 
0.3 
(9.9) 
(12.1) 
26.0 

(0.8) 

1.3 
7.2 

8.5 

61.4 
(9.1) 

52.3 

2.1 
(30.4) 
(23.0) 
– 

(51.3) 

(5.3) 
– 
(9.3) 
(20.0) 
34.2 

(0.4) 

0.6 
6.6 

7.2 

56.3 
(9.0) 

47.3 

1.3 
(32.1) 
(6.9) 
(18.4) 

(56.1) 

(5.1) 
0.3 
(9.9) 
(1.5) 
26.0 

9.8 

1.0 
7.2 

8.2 

2018
£m

53.8
(9.1)

44.7

2.1
(29.5)
(15.0)
–

(42.4)

(5.3)
–
(9.3)
(20.0)
34.2

(0.4)

1.9
5.3

7.2

The notes on pages 50 to 79 form part of these financial statements.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 47

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Group statement of changes in equity

At 1 April 2019

At 3 April 2017 

11.3 

1.8 

(8.8) 

247.7 

241.0 

493.0

Capital 
Share  redemption 
capital (1) 
reserve 
£m 
£m 

Notes 

Hedging  Revaluation 
 reserve 
£m 

reserve 
£m 

Retained 
earnings 
£m 

Total
equity
£m

Total comprehensive income  
Profit for the period 

Other comprehensive income  
Unrealised gain on revaluation of property 
Remeasurement of retirement benefit schemes  
Fair value movement of interest rate swaps 
Tax on above components of other comprehensive income 

Total comprehensive income 

Transactions with owners recorded directly in equity 
Share capital issued 
Dividends paid on equity shares 
Revaluation reserve realised on disposal of properties 
Share based payments 
Movement in shares held by the Ram Brewery Trust II 

At 2 April 2018 

Total comprehensive income  
Profit for the period 

Other comprehensive income  
Unrealised gain on revaluation of property 
Remeasurement of retirement benefit schemes  
Fair value movement of interest rate swaps 
Tax on above components of other comprehensive income 

Total comprehensive income 

Transactions with owners recorded directly in equity 
Share capital issued 
Dividends paid on equity shares 
Share based payments 

– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 

0.5 
– 
– 
– 
– 

0.5 

– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 

– 

30.1 

30.1

– 
– 
4.3 
(0.7) 

3.6 

3.6 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

29.2 
– 
– 
(3.5) 

25.7 

25.7 

– 
– 
(0.1) 
– 
– 

(0.1) 

– 
5.8 
– 
(1.0) 

4.8 

34.9 

– 
(9.3) 
0.1 
0.6 
0.2 

(8.4) 

29.2
5.8
4.3
(5.2)

34.1

64.2

0.5
(9.3)
–
0.6
0.2

(8.0)

11.8 

1.8 

(5.2) 

273.3 

267.5 

549.2

– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 

1.0 
– 
– 

1.0 

– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 

– 
– 
– 

– 

– 

– 

31.5 

31.5

– 
– 
0.5 
(0.1) 

0.4 

0.4 

– 
– 
– 

– 

25.3 
– 
– 
(3.5) 

21.8 

21.8 

– 
– 
– 

– 

– 
(1.2) 
– 
0.3 

(0.9) 

30.6 

– 
(9.9) 
0.3 

(9.6) 

25.3
(1.2)
0.5
(3.3)

21.3

52.8

1.0
(9.9)
0.3

(8.6)

17 
24 
22 
12 

14 

27 

17 
24 
22 
12 

14 
27 

At 1 April 2019 

12.8 

1.8 

(4.8) 

295.1 

288.5 

593.4

(1)  Total share capital comprises the nominal value of the share capital issued and fully paid of £6.1 million (2018: £6.1 million) and the share premium 

account of £6.7 million (2018: £5.7 million). Share capital issued in the period comprises the nominal value of £nil (2018: £nil) and share premium 
of £1.0 million (2018: £0.5 million).

The notes on pages 50 to 79 form part of these financial statements.

48

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Parent company statement of changes in equity

At 1 April 2019

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

At 3 April 2017 

11.3 

1.8 

(8.8) 

238.8 

204.4 

447.5

Capital 
Share  redemption 
capital (1) 
reserve 
£m 
£m 

Notes 

Hedging  Revaluation 
 reserve 
£m 

reserve 
£m 

Retained 
earnings 
£m 

Total
equity
£m

Total comprehensive income  
Profit for the period 

Other comprehensive income  
Unrealised gain on revaluation of property 
Remeasurement of retirement benefit schemes  
Fair value movement of interest rate swaps 
Tax on above components of other comprehensive income 

Total comprehensive income 

Transactions with owners recorded directly in equity 
Share capital issued 
Dividends paid on equity shares 
Revaluation reserve realised on disposal of properties 
Share based payments 
Movement in shares held by the Ram Brewery Trust II 

At 2 April 2018 

Total comprehensive income  
Profit for the period 

Other comprehensive income  
Unrealised gain on revaluation of property 
Remeasurement of retirement benefit schemes  
Fair value movement of interest rate swaps 
Tax on above components of other comprehensive income 

Total comprehensive income 

Transactions with owners recorded directly in equity 
Share capital issued 
Dividends paid on equity shares 
Share based payments 

– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 

0.5 
– 
– 
– 
– 

0.5 

– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 

– 

23.7 

23.7

– 
– 
4.3 
(0.7) 

3.6 

3.6 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

29.2 
– 
– 
(3.5) 

25.7 

25.7 

– 
– 
(0.1) 
– 
– 

(0.1) 

– 
5.8 
– 
(1.0) 

4.8 

28.5 

– 
(9.3) 
0.1 
0.6 
0.2 

(8.4) 

29.2
5.8
4.3
(5.2)

34.1

57.8

0.5
(9.3)
–
0.6
0.2

(8.0)

11.8 

1.8 

(5.2) 

264.4 

224.5 

497.3

– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 

1.0 
– 
– 

1.0 

– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 

– 
– 
– 

– 

– 

– 

64.5 

64.5

– 
– 
0.5 
(0.1) 

0.4 

0.4 

– 
– 
– 

– 

25.3 
– 
– 
(3.5) 

21.8 

21.8 

– 
– 
– 

– 

– 
(1.2) 
– 
0.3 

(0.9) 

63.6 

– 
(9.9) 
0.3 

(9.6) 

25.3
(1.2)
0.5
(3.3)

21.3

85.8

1.0
(9.9)
0.3

(8.6)

17 
24 
22 
12 

14 

27 

17 
24 
22 
12 

14 
27 

At 1 April 2019 

12.8 

1.8 

(4.8) 

286.2 

278.5 

574.5

(1)  Total share capital comprises the nominal value of the share capital issued and fully paid of £6.1 million (2018: £6.1 million) and the share premium 
account of £6.7 million (2018: £5.7 million). Share capital issued in the period comprises the nominal value of £nil (2018: £nil) and share premium  
of £1.0 million (2018: £0.5 million).

The notes on pages 50 to 79 form part of these financial statements.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 49

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements

For the 52 weeks ended 1 April 2019

1. GENERAL INFORMATION
The group and parent company financial statements of Young & Co.’s Brewery, P.L.C. for the period ended 1 April 2019 were authorised for issue by 
the board of directors on 22 May 2019. Young & Co.’s Brewery, P.L.C. is a public limited company incorporated and domiciled in England and Wales. 
The company’s shares are listed on the Alternative Investment Market of the London Stock Exchange. The nature of the group’s operations and its 
principal activities are set out in note 5 and in the strategic report on pages 1 to 19.

The current period and prior period relate to the 52 weeks ended 1 April 2019 and the 52 weeks ended 2 April 2018 respectively.

The financial statements are presented in pounds sterling, which is the functional currency of the parent company, and all values are rounded to the 
nearest hundred thousand (£0.1 million) except where otherwise indicated.

Going concern
The group’s business activities, together with the factors likely to affect its future development and performance, financial position and its cash flows are set 
out within the strategic report on pages 1 to 19. The group’s capital management and financial instruments, including its objectives and exposures to interest 
risk, credit risk and liquidity and cash flow risk, are set out in note 22. A £10 million bank overdraft facility is used for day to day cash management. 

The group’s budgets and forecasts in trading performance, including sensitivity analysis, show that the group has sufficient financial resources to meet its 
liabilities as they fall due. As a consequence, the board has a reasonable expectation that the group is able to manage its business risks and to continue in 
operational existence for the twelve months from the date of signing the financial statements. Accordingly, the board continues to adopt the going concern 
basis in preparing the consolidated financial statements.

2. BASIS OF PREPARATION
The group and parent company financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as 
adopted by the European Union. IFRS includes the application of International Financial Reporting Standards including International Accounting 
Standards (IAS) and related Interpretations of the International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee (IFRIC) and Interpretations of 
the Standing Interpretations Committee (SIC). During the period, new IFRS and amendments to existing IFRS were issued by the International 
Accounting Standards Board (IASB). The impact and, if applicable, the adoption of these standards is described below in “New Accounting 
Standards, Amendments and Interpretations”.

No separate income statement or statement of comprehensive income are presented for the company, as permitted by section 408(3) of the Companies 
Act 2006.

New Accounting Standards, Amendments and Interpretations
The group has adopted the following new accounting standards during the period:

IFRS 15: Revenue from contracts with customers became effective for the financial period starting on 3 April 2018. IFRS 15 introduces a five-step 
approach to the timing of revenue recognition based on performance obligations in customer contracts. The core principle is that an entity will 
recognise revenue at an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for transferring goods or 
services to a customer. Most of the group’s revenue, 98.6%, is through the sale of goods which have a very simple performance obligation, a low level 
of judgement applied in determining the consideration and the timing of transfer of control occurs at a point of time.  The remainder of the group’s 
revenue is made up of rental income received from tenanted and unlicensed properties and accrued interest using the effective interest method;  
both are outside of scope for IFRS 15. The group has adopted IFRS 15 using the modified retrospective method, thereby not requiring restatement  
of comparatives. Adoption has not had a material impact on the group’s financial performance apart from extended disclosure requirements.   

IFRS 9: Financial instruments became effective for the financial period starting 3 April 2018, introducing a new impairment model for financial 
assets and new rules for hedge accounting. The group does not have significant financial assets other than trade and other receivables. The carrying 
values of receivables, previously shown net of a provision for impairment, equates to fair value; under IFRS 9 they are carried at amortised cost less 
impairment due to their sole purpose being the collection of contract cash flows (the payment of the principal amount and if applicable interest). The 
change in measurement has had no impact on the group’s financial position.   

In determining the impairment to trade and other receivables, the group has applied the simplified approach permitted by IFRS 9, with expected 
lifetime credit losses recognised from initial recognition of the receivable. Expected credit losses are assessed by considering the group’s historical 
credit loss experience, factors specific for each receivable, the current economic climate and expected changes in forecasts of future events. Changes 
in expected credit losses are recognised in the income statement. The adoption did not have a material impact on the group’s financial performance 
or financial position. 

The requirements of the new hedge accounting model did not have a material impact on the group’s financial performance or financial position.  
The group’s current interest rate swaps were considered highly effective under the previous standard, IAS 39, and qualified for hedge accounting  
and have remained so under IFRS 9. 

Due to the adoption of the new standard having no material impact on the group, prior year comparatives have not been restated as permitted by 
IFRS 9. Expanded disclosure requirements have changed the extent of the group’s current disclosures on financial instruments.

The directors will adopt the following Standards, Amendments and Interpretations listed below in the first full financial period following their effective 
date. The directors do not expect that adoption in future periods will have a material impact with the exception of IFRS 16:

IFRS 16 
IFRIC Interpretation 23 
IAS 19 
IFRS 3 

Leases  
Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments 
Employee Benefits (Amendments) 
Business Combination (Amendments) 

Effective date
1 January 2019
1 January 2019
1 January 2019
1 January 2020

IFRS 16: ‘Leases’, replacing IAS 17, will be effective for the financial period starting on 2 April 2019. IFRS 16 removes the distinction between operating 
leases and finance leases for the lessee and will result in most leases being recognised on the balance sheet as a lease liability and a right-of-use asset. 
The lease liability will be recognised equal to the present value of the remaining lease payments discounted using an incremental borrowing rate at the 
date of initial application. Generally, the right-of-use asset will be recognised equal to the lease liability adjusted for initial direct costs (including lease 
premiums) and any prepaid or accrued lease payments. The only exception to this is for finance leased assets where the right-of-use asset on transition  
is based on the carrying value prior to transition. The right-of-use asset will be carried at cost going forwards. 

There will be no impact on net assets at the date of adoption, but due to the different methods of unwinding the asset and liability, over time,  
a difference will arise.

For leases previously classified as operating leases, the operating lease rental charge will be removed and replaced with amortisation of the right-of-
use asset and interest incurred on the lease liability. The group’s current operating lease portfolio includes short leasehold properties, vehicles and 
certain office and computer equipment. IFRS 16 will reshape the income statement with changes in phasing to operating profit and profit before tax, 

50

  
 
Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

compared to the cost profiles and presentation in the income statement under IAS 17, however the total cost over any individual lease term remains 
unchanged. IFRS 16 will also impact the classification of associated cash flows in the consolidated cash flow statement.

The group will apply IFRS 16 using the modified retrospective approach and therefore no prior year restatement is required. The group has 
reviewed all lease contracts which fall within the scope of IFRS 16 and intends to apply the below practical expedients permitted under the modified 
retrospective approach: 
•  exclude leases for measurement and recognition for leases where the term ends within 12 months from the date of initial application;
•  apply a single discount rate to a portfolio of leases with similar characteristics; and

•  adjust the right-of-use asset on transition by any previously recognised onerous lease provisions.

Using discount rates based on lease specific incremental borrowing rates and based upon the current lease portfolio, the impact of applying IFRS 16 
for the period to 1 April 2020 is expected to be as follows:

Income statement
Based on the group’s lease portfolio at 2 April 2019, adjusted operating profit for the period ending 30 March 2020 is expected to increase by 
between £1.2 million and £1.8 million. This is a result of the lease expense of between £7.5 million and £8.5 million being replaced by depreciation 
on the right-of-use asset of between £6.0 million and £7.0 million. Finance costs are expected to increase by between £2.0 million and £3.0 million 
to reflect the current year unwinding of the discounted lease liability. Adjusted profit before tax would therefore reduce by between £0.7 million and 
£1.3 million, however adjusted EBITDA is expected to benefit by between £7.0 million and £9.0 million.

Balance sheet
At the opening balance sheet date of 2 April 2019, total assets and total liabilities are both expected to increase by between £78.0 million and £82.0 million. 
This is the result of the introduction of a lease liability and a right-of-use asset. 

Cash flow statement
The principal lease payments and interest will be separately disclosed within the cash flow statement, no longer forming part of operating activities. 
The above items will have no effect on the group’s net cash flow apart from certain disclosures and classifications.

Due to routine acquisitions and modifications to lease terms, the actual impact of IFRS 16 may vary to such an extent that the actual impact of IFRS 
16 on the period to 1 April 2020 may be materially different to the amounts disclosed.

3. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The significant accounting policies adopted are set out below and have been applied consistently in presenting the group and parent company 
financial information.

(a) Basis of consolidation
The group’s financial statements consolidate the financial statements of Young & Co.’s Brewery, P.L.C. with the entities it controls, its subsidiaries and 
a special purpose entity, drawn up to the period end. An investor controls an investee when it is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its 
involvement with the investee and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the investee. The special purpose entity is the Ram Brewery 
Trust II; the trust holds assets for the benefit of employees and former employees, is an ESOP trust and is consolidated only in the group accounts.

The results of subsidiaries acquired or disposed of during the period are included in the group income statement from the effective date of 
acquisition or up to the effective date of disposal, as appropriate.

The financial statements of the subsidiaries and special purpose entity are consolidated on a comparable period basis, using consistent accounting 
policies. All inter-company balances and transactions, including unrealised profits arising on them, are eliminated.

(b) The parent company’s investments in subsidiaries
In its separate financial statements, the parent company recognises its investments in its subsidiaries on the basis of cost less provision for impairment. 
Income is recognised from these investments in relation to distributions received.

(c) Revenue recognition
Revenue is measured at the transaction price when control passes to the customer in respect of goods and services provided, net of discounts and VAT. 
The group has transitioned to IFRS 15 under the modified retrospective method. Due to the nature of the goods and services sold, the judgements 
made in identifying performance obligations and transaction prices have not had an impact on the revenue recognised. The recognition of revenue 
under each of the group’s material revenue streams is as follows:

 Sale of goods
Revenue is recognised at a point in time when control of the goods or services is transferred to the customer.

Accommodation sales
Revenue is recognised on a straight-line basis over the duration of the room occupation.

Rental income
Rental income arising from operating leases on properties is accounted for on a straight-line basis over the lease term.  
Rental income does not fall within the scope of IFRS 15.

(d) Exceptional items
Exceptional items are items which due to their material or non-recurring nature have been classified separately in order to draw them to the attention of 
the reader of the financial statements. They are included in the adjustments that, in management’s judgement, are required to better reflect the business 
performance of the group in a consistent manner and to reflect how the business is managed and measured on a day to day basis.

(e) Business combinations and goodwill
Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method. The cost of an acquisition is measured as the aggregate of the consideration 
transferred and the amount of any non-controlling interest in the acquiree. The consideration transferred is measured at the acquisition date fair value. 
The non-controlling interest is measured as the proportionate share of the acquiree’s identifiable net assets. Acquisition costs incurred are expensed and 
included in operating exceptional items.

Goodwill arising on acquisition represents the excess of the cost of acquisition over the fair value of the net identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed 
at the date of acquisition. On disposal of a subsidiary, the attributable amount of goodwill is included in the determination of the profit or loss on disposal.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 51

Notes to the financial statements

Continued

(f) Property and equipment
Freehold and long leasehold properties, including land and buildings, fixtures, fittings and equipment are held at fair value and are revalued by qualified valuers 
on a sufficiently regular basis using open market values so that the carrying value of an asset does not differ significantly from its fair value at the balance sheet 
date. The valuation is assessed on the basis of the highest and best use.

Surpluses which arise from the revaluation exercise are included within other comprehensive income (in the revaluation reserve) unless they are reversing a 
revaluation adjustment which has been recognised in the income statement previously. Where the revaluation exercise gives rise to a deficit, this is reflected 
directly in other comprehensive income (in the revaluation reserve) to the extent that a surplus exists against the same asset. Any further decrease in value 
is recognised in the income statement as an exceptional expense. At the date of revaluation, any accumulated depreciation is eliminated to the extent of the 
difference between the revalued amount and the carrying value of the asset immediately before valuation.

Short leasehold improvements and fixtures, fittings and equipment within those sites are measured at cost on recognition, and are stated as such less any 
accumulated depreciation. 

The carrying amount of an asset, less any residual value, is depreciated on a straight-line basis over the asset’s useful life or lease term, if shorter. The residual 
value, useful life and depreciation method applied to each asset are reviewed annually. The group does not depreciate freehold land or the residual value of its 
freehold and long leasehold buildings.

Useful lives:

Freehold and long leasehold buildings  
Short leasehold improvements  
Fixtures, fittings and equipment 

50 years
Shorter of the estimated useful life and the lease term
3-10 years

An asset’s carrying amount is written down immediately to its recoverable amount if the asset’s carrying amount is greater than its estimated 
recoverable amount (note 3(g)).

The gain arising on the disposal or retirement of an asset is determined as the difference between the sales proceeds and the carrying amount of the 
asset, and is recognised in the income statement. Property, plant and equipment are treated as disposals in the period of their write down.

(g) Impairment of assets
The carrying values of investments, property and equipment are reviewed for impairment if events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value 
may not be recoverable. Goodwill is mandatorily assessed for impairment on an annual basis or more frequently if there are indications that the carrying value 
may be impaired.

Impairment is assessed on the basis of either each individual asset or each individual cash generating unit (an individual pub), or, in the case of goodwill, the 
group of cash generating units associated with it. For the purpose of impairment testing, goodwill acquired in a business combination is, from the acquisition 
date, allocated to each of the group’s cash generating units (or groups of cash generating units) that are expected to benefit from the combination.

An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the 
higher of an asset’s fair value less costs to sell and the value in use, and is determined for an individual asset unless the asset does not generate cash inflows 
that are largely independent of those from other assets or groups of assets. Value in use is assessed by reference to the estimated future cash flows which are 
discounted to present value using an appropriate pre-tax discount rate. Impairment losses are recognised in the income statement.

Where an impairment loss subsequently reverses, the carrying amount of the asset is increased to the revised estimate of its recoverable amount, but so that 
the increased carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognised for the asset 
in prior periods. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognised immediately in the group income statement unless the impairment loss relates to goodwill, in 
which case it is not reversed.

(h) Leases
(1) Where the group is the lessee

Assets held under finance leases, which transfer to the group substantially all the risks and benefits incidental to ownership of the leased item, are 
capitalised at the inception of the lease, with a corresponding liability being recognised for the lower of the fair value of the leased asset and the present 
value of the minimum lease payments.

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

Leases where the lessor retains a significant portion of the risks and benefits of ownership of the asset are classified as operating leases and rentals 
payable are charged in the income statement on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Lease incentives are recognised as a reduction of rental costs 
over the lease term.

(2) Where the group is the lessor

Assets leased out under operating leases are included within property and equipment and are depreciated over their estimated useful lives. Rental 
income, including the effect of lease incentives, is recognised on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

(i) Inventories
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost includes all costs of purchase, costs of conversion and other costs incurred in 
bringing the inventories to their present location and condition. The cost formula used is equivalent to a ‘First in, First out’ method.

(j) Cash
Cash in the balance sheet comprises cash at banks, cash in transit due from credit card providers and cash in hand. For the purpose of the group and 
parent company cash flow statements, cash is net of outstanding bank overdrafts. Cash and cash equivalents include only deposits which mature in less 
than three months.

(k) Trade and other payables
Trade and other payables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently at amortised cost. When applicable, trade and other payables are 
analysed between current and non-current liabilities on the face of the balance sheet, depending on when the obligation to settle will crystallise.

(l) Interest bearing loans and borrowings
All loans and borrowings are recognised initially at fair value. Directly attributable transaction costs are capitalised and amortised over the life of the 
facility using the effective interest method through finance expense.

After initial recognition, interest bearing loans and borrowings are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Expected credit losses are recognised from initial recognition based on the group’s historical credit loss experience, factors specific for each loan, the 
current economic climate and expected changes in forecasts of future events. Changes in expected credit losses are recognised in the income statement.

52

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

(m) Taxation
The tax expense represents the sum of the tax currently payable and deferred tax.

The current tax payable is based on taxable profit for the period. Taxable profit differs from profit before tax as reported in the income statement because 
the former excludes items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and also excludes items that are never taxable or deductible. 
The group’s liability for current tax is calculated using UK tax rates that have been enacted under UK law and that are applicable to the period.

The current tax expense is recognised in the income statement unless it relates to items that are credited or charged to equity, in which case it is 
credited or charged directly to equity.

Deferred tax is recognised on all temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts, with the 
following exceptions:

•   where the deferred tax liability arises from the initial recognition of goodwill or of an asset or liability in a transaction that is not a business combination 

and, at the time of the transaction, affects neither the accounting profit nor taxable profit or loss;

•   in respect of taxable temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, where the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences 

can be controlled and it is probable that the temporary differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future; and

•   deferred income tax assets are recognised only to the extent that it is probable that taxable profits will be available against which the deductible 

temporary differences, carried forward tax credits or tax losses can be utilised.

Where capital gains have been rolled over for tax purposes, a deferred tax liability is recorded on the rolled over gain to reflect the tax that may be due 
on this amount at a future date.

Where there has been an upward revaluation of an asset and the asset is expected to be realised through disposal, a deferred tax liability is recorded based 
on the difference between the indexed cost of the asset less any capital gains which have been rolled over against the asset and the revalued amount.

Deferred tax is measured on an undiscounted basis at the UK tax rates that are expected to apply on reversal of the underlying temporary differences, 
based on tax rates and laws enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date.

(n) Accounting for the ESOP trust
The capital gains tax liability that may arise on the notionally allocated shares in the Ram Brewery Trust II when they are transferred to employees is 
recognised as a provision in the financial statements under trade and other payables.

(o) Derivative financial instruments and hedging
The group uses derivative financial instruments such as interest rate swaps to hedge its risk associated with interest rate fluctuations. Derivative financial 
instruments are initially recognised at fair value on the date on which a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently remeasured at fair 
value. Derivatives are carried as assets when the fair value is positive and as liabilities when the fair value is negative.

The fair value of interest rate swap contracts is determined by reference to market values for similar instruments.

For those derivatives designated as hedges and for which hedge accounting is desired, the hedging relationship is documented at its inception. This 
documentation identifies the hedging instrument, the hedged item or transaction, the nature of the risk being hedged and how its effectiveness will be 
measured throughout its duration. Such hedges are expected at inception to be highly effective.

Where cash flow hedge accounting is not applied, the movement in the fair value of the derivative is recognised immediately in the income statement. 
Where cash flow hedge accounting is applied, as in the case of the interest rate swaps held by the group, the effective portion of the gain or loss on 
the hedging instrument is recognised in the statement of comprehensive income, while the ineffective portion is recognised in the income statement.

If the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated or exercised without replacement or rollover, or if its designation as a hedge is revoked, 
amounts previously recognised in equity remain in equity until the forecast transaction occurs, at which point they are immediately expensed. If the 
related transaction is not expected to occur, the amount held in equity is immediately expensed.

(p) Pensions and other post retirement benefits
The company operates one defined benefit pension scheme, namely the Young & Co.’s Brewery, P.L.C. Pension Scheme, a defined contribution 
pension scheme and a post retirement health care scheme.

Contributions to the defined contribution scheme are recognised in the income statement in the period in which they become due.

For the defined benefit scheme, the actuarial cost charged to the income statement in the period consists of the current service cost, net interest on 
the net defined benefit liability or asset, past service cost and the impact of any settlements or curtailments.

Remeasurements of the defined benefit pension and post retirement health care schemes are recognised in full in the statement of comprehensive 
income in the period in which they relate.

The net defined benefit pension liability or asset in the balance sheet comprises the present value of the defined benefit obligations less the fair value 
of scheme assets out of which the obligations are to be settled directly. Fair value is based on market price information and in the case of quoted 
securities is the published bid price. The value of a net pension benefit asset is restricted to the sum of the present value of any amount the group 
expects to recover by way of refunds from the scheme or reductions in the future contributions.

Post retirement health care benefits are provided for certain employees and certain directors. Entry to the scheme is on a discretionary basis. The 
annual premium for providing cover is determined by BUPA. This information is taken by qualified actuaries who then assess the reserve required 
to provide this benefit for participants’ future lifetimes, using IAS 19 assumptions. The liability for new entrants is recognised through the income 
statement in the period in which the benefit is granted. Remeasurements of health care benefits are recognised in full directly in the statement of 
comprehensive income.

(q) Trade and other receivables
Trade receivables are initially recognised at the transaction price less impairment as they do not contain a significant financial component. In measuring 
and recognising the impairment, the group has applied the simplified approach to expected credit losses as permitted by IFRS 9. Expected credit losses 
are recognised from initial recognition based on the group’s historical credit loss experience, factors specific for each receivable, the current economic 
climate and expected changes in forecasts of future events. Changes in expected credit losses are recognised in the income statement.

(r) Share based payments
The group operates two types of share based payment arrangements: a director/senior management employee deferred bonus scheme (“DBS”) and 
a Save-As-You-Earn (“SAYE”) scheme. 

Under the DBS, directors and senior management are encouraged to receive bonus payments in the form of shares instead of cash. They are 
encouraged to do this by being offered ‘matching’ shares (see note 27). The ‘matching’ shares constitute shares with non-market performance based 
vesting conditions over three years. The group has used the “grant date model” as its valuation model for recording the fair value of these equity 

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 53

Notes to the financial statements

Continued

instruments at the date when they were originally granted. The fair value of equity represents the market value of the shares at grant date, less the 
nominal value which the employees will pay. 

Under the SAYE scheme, eligible employees are encouraged to save over a set period and then, if they choose, purchase shares at the price set 
before the start of that period (see note 27). The group uses the “Black-Scholes model” as its valuation model for valuing awards at fair value.

The fair value cost of both schemes is expensed to the income statement with a corresponding credit in equity on a straight-line basis over the 
vesting period. The cumulative expense also takes account of the group’s estimate of the number of shares that will ultimately vest.

(s) Use of estimates
The preparation of financial information in conformity with IFRS requires management to make certain judgements, estimates and assumptions 
that affect the application of policies and reported amounts of assets and liabilities, income and expenses. Although these estimates are based on 
management’s best knowledge of the amount, event or actions, actual results ultimately may differ from those estimates. Estimates and underlying 
assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised and in 
any future period affected.

The areas involving a higher degree of judgement or complexity, or where the most sensitive estimates and assumptions are significant to the financial 
statements, are set out in note 4.

(t) Supplier income
The group earns supplier income through purchase volume-related discounts and stocking incentives. Most of the supplier income received relates to 
volume discounts and is driven by the number of units purchased from suppliers. The volume discounts relate to adjustments to a gross purchase price, 
and as such are recognised on an accrual basis at the point of purchase. Stocking incentives are earned through a fixed payment in return for fulfilling 
certain stocking obligations, including number of stockists. Supplier income is recognised when the group has met all obligations conditional for earning 
the income; they are recognised as a credit within cost of sales. 

Outstanding amounts due from suppliers for earned income at the period end are recognised within trade receivables, except in cases where the group 
has rights of set-off and intends to offset these against trade payables to suppliers.

(u) Short leasehold premiums
Premiums paid on acquiring new short leaseholds are amortised on a straight-line basis over the lease term, which range from one to 31 years. Such 
premiums are classified in the balance sheet as current or non-current prepayments, with the current portion being the element which relates to the 
following financial period.

(v) Lease intangible assets
The fair value acquired on operating leasehold interests are deemed to represent lease premiums, and are carried as intangible assets. The lease 
intangible is amortised on a straight-line basis over the lease term, which range from 13 to 23 years.

(w) Onerous lease provisions
Onerous obligations for loss making short (less than 50 years) leaseholds are reviewed and calculated by management. Judgements are made over 
the timings and amounts of future cash flows, the potential opportunity to exit the lease early and the appropriate discount rate when calculating the 
onerous lease provision. The provision is calculated on an individual property basis over the remaining lease term. 

4. KEY ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTS

The preparation of the financial statements requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of 
assets, liabilities, income and expenses. 

In applying the group’s accounting policies, the following estimates are considered to carry the most significant risk of resulting in a material adjustment 
to the reported amount in the next financial year if the actual outcome differs from these estimates:

(a) Valuation of property and equipment
The group is required to value property and equipment on a sufficiently regular basis using open market values to ensure the current carrying 
value does not differ significantly from the fair value. The valuation, performed by qualified valuers, is based on market observations and estimates 
on the selling price in an arms’ length transaction, and includes estimates of future income levels and trading potential for each pub, as well as 
taking into account other factors such as location, tenure and current income levels. See note 17.

(b) Carrying value of goodwill
The group considers annually whether goodwill has suffered any impairment in accordance with the accounting policy set out in note 3(g). The 
recoverable amounts for cash generating units have been determined based on value in use calculations. This calculation requires the use of 
estimates, including growth rates, capital maintenance expenditure and pre-tax discount rates. See notes 3(g) and 16.

(c) Depreciation
Depreciation is provided so as to write down the assets to their residual values over the estimated useful lives. The selection of these residual 
values and useful lives requires the use of estimates. See notes 3(f) and 17.

(d) Defined benefit pension and health care scheme obligations
Measurement of defined benefit pension and health care scheme obligations requires an estimate of future changes in salaries and inflation, as 
well as mortality rates, the expected return on assets and the selection of a suitable discount rate. These have been determined on advice from 
an independent qualified actuary. See notes 3(p) and 24.

The critical judgements considered to carry the most significant risk of a material adjustment to the reported amount if the actual outcome differs 
from these judgements are as follows:

(e) Business combinations
When assets are acquired, management determines whether the assets form a business combination. A fair value exercise of both the 
consideration paid and the net assets acquired is performed once it is determined that a business combination has taken place. If the fair value 
of the consideration is in excess of the fair value of the net assets acquired, the difference is recognised as goodwill. If the opposite occurs, the 
difference is recognised in the income statement. The group makes judgements in relation to the fair value of the consideration, the net assets 
acquired and whether the purchase represents a business combination. See notes 3(e), 13, 16 and 17.

(f) Taxation
The group reviews potential tax liabilities and benefits to assess the appropriate accounting treatment. Tax provisions are made if it is probable 
that a liability will arise. Tax benefits are not recognised unless it is probable that they will be recovered. Calculating the group’s tax provisions 
requires judgements to be made based on past experience and the current tax environment. See notes 3(m), 12 and 23.

54

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

5. SEGMENTAL REPORTING
The group is organised into the reporting segments referred to below. These segments are based on the different resources and risks involved in the 
running of the group. The executive board of the group internally reviews each reporting segment’s operating profit or loss before exceptional items for 
the purpose of deciding on the allocation of resources and assessing performance.

The group has two operating segments: Young’s managed houses and the Ram Pub Company. Young’s managed houses operate pubs with revenue derived 
from sales of drink, food and the provision of accommodation. The Ram Pub Company consists of pubs owned or leased by the company and leased or sub 
leased to third parties. Revenue is derived from rents payable by, and sales of drink made to, tenants. Unallocated income and costs relate to head office.

Total segment revenue is derived externally with no intersegment revenues between the segments in either period. The group’s revenue is derived 
entirely from the UK.

Income statement

2019 

Sales of goods 
Accommodation sales 

Revenue recognised under contracts with customers 
Rental income 

Total revenue recognised 

Operating profit/(loss) before exceptional items 
Operating exceptional items 

Operating profit/(loss) 

2018 

Sales of goods 
Accommodation sales 

Revenue recognised under contracts with customers 
Rental income 

Total revenue recognised 

Operating profit/(loss) before exceptional items 
Operating exceptional items 

Operating profit/(loss) 

Managed 
houses 
£m 

Ram Pub 
Company 
£m 

Segments 
total 
£m 

276.4 
13.3 

289.7 
0.6 

290.3 

61.5 
(0.9) 

60.6  

254.7 
11.2 

265.9 
0.5 

266.4 

60.7 
(4.0) 

56.7  

9.7 
– 

9.7 
3.3 

13.0 

5.0 
(0.5) 

4.5 

9.3 
- 

9.3 
3.3 

12.6 

4.4 
0.6 

5.0 

286.1 
13.3 

299.4 
3.9 

303.3 

66.5 
(1.4) 

65.1 

264.0 
11.2 

275.2 
3.8 

279.0 

65.1 
(3.4) 

61.7 

The following is a reconciliation of the operating profit to the profit before tax:

Operating profit 
Finance costs 
Other finance charges 

Profit before tax 

Balance sheet

2019 

Segment assets 
Deferred tax assets 
Cash 

Total assets 

Other segmental information
Depreciation and amortisation of lease premiums 
Additions to non-current assets 
Net downward movements in property valuation through 
income statement (note 17) 

2018 

Segment assets 
Deferred tax assets 
Cash 

Total assets 

Other segmental information
Depreciation and amortisation of lease premiums 
Additions to non-current assets (note 17) 
Net upward movements in property valuation through 
income statement (note 17) 

Managed 
houses 
£m 

784.5 
– 
– 

784.5 

(22.1) 
66.0 

(0.1) 

 715.2 
– 
– 

 715.2 

(19.6) 
39.5 

– 

Ram Pub 
Company 
£m 

70.0 
– 
– 

70.0 

(1.7) 
8.0 

Segments 
total 
£m 

854.5 
– 
– 

854.5 

(23.8) 
74.0 

– 

(0.1) 

60.7 
– 
– 

60.7 

(1.6) 
6.3 

0.3 

775.9 
– 
– 

775.9 

(21.2) 
45.8 

0.3 

Unallocated 

£m 

11.6 
7.4 
8.5 

27.5 

(0.5) 
3.0 

– 

11.1 
6.4 
7.2 

24.7 

(0.6) 
0.4 

– 

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 55

Unallocated 

£m 

– 
– 

– 
0.4 

0.4 

(18.0) 
(2.5) 

(20.5) 

- 
- 

- 
0.3 

0.3 

(18.2) 
– 

(18.2) 

2019 
£m 

44.6 
(5.0) 
(0.1) 

39.5 

Total

£m

286.1
13.3

299.4
4.3

303.7

48.5
(3.9)

44.6

264.0
11.2

275.2
4.1

279.3 

46.9
(3.4)

43.5

2018
£m

43.5
(5.6)
(0.3)

37.6

Total

£m

866.1
7.4
8.5

882.0

(24.3)
77.0

(0.1)

787.0
6.4
7.2

800.6

(21.8)
46.2

0.3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Notes to the financial statements

Continued

6. REVENUE

The recognition of revenue under each of the group’s material revenue streams is as follows:

Sales of goods 
Accommodation sales 

Revenue recognised under contracts with customers 
Rental income(1) 

Total revenue recognised 

(1) Rental income for 2018 includes accommodation sales.

7. OPERATING COSTS BEFORE EXCEPTIONAL ITEMS

Changes in inventories of finished goods and raw materials 
Raw materials, consumables and finished goods used 
Employment costs (note 8(a)) 
Depreciation (note 17) 
Amortisation of lease premiums  
Other operating costs 

2019 
£m 

286.1 
13.3 

299.4 
4.3 

303.7 

2019 
£m 

(0.7) 
70.6 
96.1 
23.4 
0.9 
64.9 

2018
£m

264.1
–

264.1
15.2

279.3

2018
£m

(0.2)
65.1
87.6
21.1
0.7
58.1

255.2 

232.4

Other operating costs include:
Operating lease rentals: 

minimum lease payments 
sublease payments 

Auditor’s remuneration: 

audit of the group financial statements   

7.1 
0.8 

7.9 

0.2 

0.2 

8. EMPLOYMENT

(a) Costs and employee numbers

Wages and salaries 
Social security 
Pension and health care schemes 

Employment costs  

  Group 

 Company

2019 
£m 

88.2 
6.6 
1.3 

96.1 

2018 
£m 

80.5 
6.0 
1.1  

87.6 

2019 
£m 

87.0 
6.5 
1.3 

94.8 

6.5
0.7

7.2

0.2

0.2

2018
£m

78.0
5.9
1.1 

85.0

The group’s and the company’s average monthly number of employees was 4,735 and 4,385 respectively (2018 group and company: 4,116).  
The number of employees at the period end was 4,874 and 4,524 respectively (2018 group and company: 4,273).

The group’s and the company’s average monthly number of operational employees was 4,602 and 4,253 respectively (2018 group and company: 
3,990). The number of operational employees at the period end was 4,740 and 4,391 respectively (2018 group and company: 4,143).

The group’s and the company’s average monthly number of administration employees was 133 and 132 respectively (2018 group and company: 126). 
The number of administration employees at the period end was 134 and 133 respectively (2018 group and company: 130).

56

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

 Total 
 excluding 
pension 
costs 
2019 
£000 

Total
 excluding
pension
 costs
2018
£000

95 

828 

291 

356 

41 

41 

41 

41 

91

597

300

346

41

40

39

8

227 

1,961 

422

1,884

– 

242 

118 

134 

– 

– 

– 

– 

170 

664 

(b) Directors’ emoluments

Stephen Goodyear (iii) (iv) 

Patrick Dardis (iii) 

Torquil Sligo–Young 

Tracy Dodd 

Roger Lambert 

Trish Corzine 

Nick Miller 

Ian McHoul (v) 

Basic 
salary 
and fees  
2019  
£000 

93 

444 

160 

218 

41 

41 

41 

41 

Basic 
salary 

and fees  Benefits (i) 
2019 
£000 

2018 
£000 

Benefits (i) 
2018 
£000 

Bonus (ii) 
2019 
£000 

Bonus (ii) 
2018 
£000 

90 

353 

156 

212 

41 

40 

39 

8 

2 

1 

19 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

1 

1 

2 

26 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

1 

– 

383 

112 

138 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

Steven Robinson (iii) (vi) 

226 

251 

Total 

1,305 

1,190 

23 

30 

633 

(i)  These relate primarily to the provision of private medical insurance and car-related benefits.

(ii)  The amounts shown in the ‘Bonus’ columns reflect the cash value of bonuses receivable pursuant to the deferred bonus scheme referred to in note 27 

but excluding the cash value of any ‘matching’ shares (as explained in that note). If the company decides to provide the current period bonuses in shares, 
the cash value of the ‘matching’ shares to be awarded to Patrick is £191,250 (2018: £120,876), to Torquil is £56,231 (2018: £59,071) and to Tracy is 
£13,773 (2018: £6,710).

(iii)   Note 8(e) on page 58 sets out the gains made on the exercise of share options.

(iv)  The amount shown in the ‘Benefits’ column is a cash contribution paid to Stephen Goodyear towards private medical insurance.

(v)  Ian was appointed to the board on 24 January 2018.

(vi)  Steven resigned from the board on 11 December 2018 and left the company. He assisted with an orderly handover after his departure and 
therefore for those services he continued to receive salary, car-related benefits and private medical insurance up until 31 December 2018. 

(c) Retirement benefits
Defined benefit pension scheme
The company operates a defined benefit pension scheme: the Young & Co.’s Brewery, P.L.C. Pension Scheme. All active members contribute to it 
and continue to accrue benefits; during the period, those contributions were, on average, at a rate between 8% and 11% of pensionable earnings, 
dependent on each member’s accrual rate. The scheme invests largely in managed funds. The company accounts for retirement benefits in 
accordance with IAS 19; detailed disclosures covering this are set out in note 24. No director was accruing any defined benefit under the scheme 
as at 1 April 2019. Further, no director accrued any defined benefit under the scheme during the period. Stephen Goodyear, Torquil Sligo-Young 
and Patrick Dardis are pensioner members of the scheme.

Defined contribution pension scheme
The company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. As at 1 April 2019, Tracy Dodd was a member of the scheme and was accruing 
retirement benefits under it; for the period, the company paid contributions of £8,040 (2018: £7,710) into the scheme for her in respect of her 
qualifying service. Up until 31 December 2018, Steven Robinson was also a member of the scheme; the company paid contributions of £6,700 
(2018: £7,710) into the scheme for him in respect of his qualifying service. 

Post retirement health care
The company bears the cost of post retirement health care premia for certain employees and ex-employees – see note 24. 

(d) Profit sharing scheme
This scheme, which involved an annual profit share allocation, was closed a number of years ago. As a result, it has effectively been in ‘run-off’, with 
periodic releases of accrued entitlements, represented by A shares, happening as and when a member reaches his or her normal retirement date.  
In the period ended 3 April 2017, it was agreed with HM Revenue & Customs that all accrued entitlements could be released free of tax, even where 
an individual had not reached his or her retirement date. During the period, 3,572 A shares were released to scheme members (2018: 31,104).  
As at 1 April 2019, accrued entitlements now effectively remain in respect of 3,772 A shares (2018: 7,344 A shares).

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 57

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements

Continued

(e) Savings-related share option scheme
The company operates a savings-related share option scheme. From year to year eligible employees of the group are invited to join the scheme 
and be granted options to buy shares in the company. Employees must agree to save a fixed monthly amount with a savings institution through 
deductions from net salary over a three-year period. The amount to be saved determines the number of shares over which an option is granted. If the 
board chooses, options are granted at a discount of up to 20% of the market price of a share at the time invitations are sent out to join the scheme 
for that year. There are no performance conditions other than continued employment.

The entitlement to A shares under the scheme of each of the directors who served throughout or during the period is as follows:

At 2 
April 
2018  Granted 

Exercised 

Lapsed 

Stephen Goodyear 
Patrick Dardis 
Steven Robinson 

Torquil Sligo-Young 

Tracy Dodd 

888 
888 
888 
844 
– 
933 
– 
1,013 

– 
– 
– 
– 
659 
– 
659 
– 

888 
888 
888 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
844 
659 
– 
– 
– 

At 1 
April 
 2019 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
933 
659 
1,013 

Exercise 
price 
(pence per 
share) (i) 

1,013 
1,013 
1,013 
1,066 
1,364 
964 
1,364 
1,066 

Exercisable 
from 

01.09.18 
01.09.18 
01.09.18 
01.09.20 
01.09.21 
01.09.19 
01.09.21 
01.09.20 

  Gains made
on exercise
of share
options
(£) (ii)

Exercisable 
to 

28.02.19 
28.02.19 
28.02.19 
28.02.21 
28.02.22 
28.02.20 
28.02.22 
28.02.21 

6,189
6,189
6,189
–
–
–
–
–

(i)  The exercise prices of 1,013p per share, 1,066p per share, 1,364p per share and 964p per share represent a discount of not more than 20% to 
the market price of an A share at the time the relevant invitations to join the scheme were issued, being 1,265.5p per share, 1,332p per share, 
1,705p per share, and 1,205p per share respectively.

(ii)  The figures appearing in the ‘Gains made on exercise of share options’ column are calculated by taking the difference between the exercise price 
and the opening market price of an A share on the day the option was exercised, and then multiplying that by the number of A shares in respect 
of which the option was exercised. Each of the directors listed (other than Tracy Dodd) exercised a share option in the prior period – each such 
option was in respect of 1,071 A shares and had an exercise price of 840p per share – in respect of that exercise, each of Stephen Goodyear, 
Patrick Dardis and Steven Robinson made a gain of £5,837 and Torquil Sligo-Young made a gain of £5,869.

9. EXCEPTIONAL ITEMS

Amounts included in operating profit: 
Upward movement on the revaluation of properties(1) (note 17) 
Downward movement on the revaluation of properties(1) (note 17) 
Guaranteed minimum pension equalisation(2) (note 24) 
Tenant compensation(3) 
Acquisition costs(4) 
Net profit on sale of properties(5) 
Loss on disposal of property(6) 
Onerous lease provision released on disposal of property(6) 

Exceptional tax: 
Tax attributable to above adjustments 

Total exceptional items after tax 

2019 
£m 

2018
£m

3.4 
(3.5) 
(2.5) 
(0.5) 
(1.2) 
0.4 
– 
– 

(3.9) 

0.1 

0.1 

(3.8) 

2.1
(1.8)
–
(2.8)
(1.2)
0.3
(0.5)
0.5

(3.4)

0.4

0.4

(3.0)

(1) The movement on the revaluation of properties is a non-cash item that relates to the revaluation exercise that was completed based on the period 

end date. The revaluation was conducted at an individual pub level and identified an upward movement of £3.4 million (2018: £2.1 million) 
representing reversals of previous impairments recognised in the income statement, and a downward movement of £3.5 million (2018: £1.8 million), 
representing downward movements in excess of amounts recognised in equity. These resulted in a net downward movement of £0.1 million (2018: 
£0.3 million net upward) which has been recognised in the income statement. The downward movement for the period ended 1 April 2019 was 
split between land and buildings of £0.1 million downward (2018: £0.3 million upward) and fixtures and fittings of £nil (2018: £nil). See note 5 for 
segmental information.

58

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

(2)  The Guaranteed Minimum Pension (GMP) is the minimum pension which a UK occupational pension scheme must provide for those employees who 
were contracted out of the State Earnings-Related Pensions Scheme between 6 April 1978 and 5 April 1997. Following the ruling of the High Court 
of Justice of England and Wales on 26 October 2018, the need to equalise the effect of differences in GMPs between males and females was made 
more certain and consequently an allowance for the effect of GMP equalisation has been made in the current financial period. Although a number 
of methodologies could be used to determine the impact, the group has adopted method C2 to identify its best estimate of the additional liabilities. 
These are charged as a past service cost in the income statement as an exceptional item since the liabilities relate to employee service between 1990 
and 1997 and they have no link to current business performance. The increase in liabilities (note 24) as at 1 April 2019 is estimated at £2.5 million, 
assessed using market conditions at the date of the ruling as required by IAS 19.

(3)  Tenant compensation of £0.5 million was paid to the previous tenants of the Bear (Cobham) and the Bayee Village (Wimbledon Village) to terminate their 

lease agreements early. During the prior period, the group paid tenant compensation of £2.8 million to the previous tenants of the Hope & Anchor (Brixton), 
Grove (Camberwell) and the King’s Arms (Wandsworth).

(4) The acquisition costs relate to the purchase of Redcomb Pubs Limited, a corporate group with 15 sites acquired on 23 January 2019, along with the People’s 
Park Tavern (Hackney) and the Plantation (Poole). They include legal and professional fees and stamp duty land tax. The prior period acquisition costs related 
to the Chequers Inn (Hanham Mills), Smiths of Smithfield (Smithfield Market), Smiths (Cannon Street), Park (Teddington) and the Bridge (Chertsey).

(5) The profit on sale of properties relates to the difference between the cash, less selling costs, received from the sale of the King’s Arms (Mitcham) 

and the William IV (Bletchingley) and the carrying value of the assets on the date of sale. In the prior period there was a profit from the sale of the 
King’s Arms (Epsom).

(6) The prior year loss on disposal of properties relates to the difference between cash, less selling costs, received from the sale of the Court House 

(Dartford) and the carrying value of the net assets at the date of sale. Previously an onerous lease was recognised in respect of the property which 
was subsequently released on disposal.

10. OTHER FINANCIAL MEASURES

The table below shows how adjusted group EBITDA, operating profit and profit before tax have been arrived at. They exclude exceptional items 
which due to their material or non-recurring nature distort the group’s performance. These alternative performance measures have been provided 
to help investors assess the group’s underlying performance. Details of the exceptional items can be seen in note 9. All the results below are from 
continuing operations.

EBITDA 
Depreciation and net movement on the  
revaluation of properties 
Amortisation of lease premiums 

Operating profit 
Net finance costs 
Other finance charges 

Profit before tax 

2019 

Exceptional 
items 
£m 

Unadjusted 
£m 

69.0 

(23.5) 
(0.9) 

44.6 
(5.0) 
(0.1) 

39.5 

3.8 

0.1 
– 

3.9 
– 
– 

3.9 

Adjusted 
£m 

Unadjusted 
£m 

72.8 

65.0 

(23.4) 
(0.9) 

48.5 
(5.0) 
(0.1) 

43.4 

(20.8) 
(0.7) 

43.5 
(5.6) 
(0.3) 

37.6 

Any reference to ‘like-for-like’ means excluding the impact of any acquisitions or disposals in the financial period.

11. FINANCE COSTS

Bank loans and overdrafts 

2018 

Exceptional
items 
£m 

Adjusted
£m

3.7 

(0.3) 
– 

3.4 
– 
– 

3.4 

2019 
£m 

5.0 

5.0 

68.7

(21.1) 
(0.7)

46.9
(5.6)
(0.3)

41.0

2018
£m

5.6

5.6

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 59

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements

Continued

12. TAXATION

Tax charged in the group income statement 

Current tax 

Current tax expense 
Adjustment in respect of current tax of prior periods 

Deferred tax 
Origination and reversal of temporary differences 

Tax expense 

Deferred tax in the group income statement 

Property revaluation and disposals 
Capital allowances 
Retirement benefit schemes 
Share based payments 
Trade losses  

Tax credit   

Deferred tax in the group statement of comprehensive income  

Property revaluation and disposals  
Retirement benefit schemes 
Interest rate swaps  

Tax charge 

2019 
£m 

2018
£m

9.3 
(0.4) 

8.9 

(0.9) 

(0.9) 

8.0 

(0.1) 
(0.5) 
(0.2) 
0.1 
(0.2) 

(0.9) 

3.5 
(0.3) 
0.1 

3.3 

8.7
–

8.7

(1.2)

(1.2)

7.5

(0.5)
(0.9)
0.2
–
–

(1.2)

3.5
1.0
0.7

5.2

A reconciliation of the tax expense applicable to the profit from operating activities before tax at the statutory rate to the actual tax expense at the 
group’s effective tax rate for the periods ended 1 April 2019 and 2 April 2018 respectively is as follows:

Profit before tax 

Total profit before tax at a corporation tax rate of 19% (2018: 19%) 
Tax effects of: 

Expenses not deductible for tax purposes(1) 
Recognition of property revaluation, rollover claim and other property movements 

  Non-taxable income 

Prior period adjustment – current tax 

Total tax expense 

2019 
£m 

39.5 

7.5 

1.3 
(0.1) 
(0.3) 
(0.4) 

8.0 

2018
£m

37.6

7.1

1.4
(0.7)
(0.3)
–

7.5

(1)  Expenses not deductible for tax purposes include property acquisition costs, pension service costs, depreciation on assets ineligible for capital 

allowances and share based payments.

Changes to the UK corporation tax rate from 20% to 19% (effective from 1 April 2017) and then to 17% (effective from 1 April 2020) were 
substantively enacted into law on 6 September 2016. Deferred tax balances that will be realised or settled between 3 April 2018 and 1 April 2020 
have been measured at 19%, with the remainder remeasured at 17%.

60

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
      
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

13. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS

Redcomb Pubs Limited
On 23 January 2019, the group and the company acquired the entire issued share capital of Redcomb Pubs Limited for a provisional total cash cost 
of £31.7 million. This comprised cash consideration for the share capital of £18.4 million, overdraft and bank loan repayment of £10.6 million and 
the settlement of £2.7 million of the acquired working capital on acquisition. The remainder of the working capital acquired has either been utilised or 
subsequently paid or received. The acquired group consists of 15 premium sites in prime locations that fit well with Young’s managed house expansion 
strategy. Redcomb Pubs Limited, directly or indirectly, owns 100% of the share capital of BFI Ltd, Redcomb Pubs & Bars Ltd and Old Manor Trading Ltd.

The provisional fair value of the identifiable assets and liabilities of the acquired business at the date of acquisition was as follows:

Identifiable assets and liabilities acquired: 
Property and equipment 
Intangible assets – operating leases 
Inventories 
Cash 
Trade and other receivables 
Overdraft and loans 
Trade and other payables 
Deferred taxation on fair value adjustment 

Net assets 
Goodwill 

Cash consideration for share capital 

Provisional
fair value
£m

22.4
3.9 
0.3 
0.1 
3.7
(10.6)
(8.7)
(1.5)

9.6
8.8

18.4

Goodwill of £8.8 million was recognised on the acquisition which represents the opportunity to the group of acquiring and operating 15 new 
managed sites with immediate effect.

The group incurred £0.5 million of costs associated with the acquisition, which have been recorded as operating exceptional items.

Between the date of acquisition and the balance sheet date, Redcomb Pubs Limited contributed £3.0 million of revenue and £0.2 million of operating 
loss. If the acquisition had been completed on 3 April 2018, group revenues for the period would have been expected to increase by £19.6 million 
and the group operating profit would have been expected to increase by £2.6 million.

In the prior period, the group and the company acquired the entire issued share capital of Smiths of Smithfield Limited for a consideration of £9.0 
million on a debt and working capital free basis. Smiths of Smithfield Limited owned and operated Smiths of Smithfield (Smithfield Market) and the 
Candlemaker (Cannon Street). The aggregated fair value of the identifiable assets and liabilities was a net liability of £0.1 million, with a lease premium 
of £6.8 million being recognised in respect of the £6.7 million total consideration exchanged for the share capital acquired. During the current period, 
a further £1.1 million deferred tax liability was recognised within the prescribed 12-month adjustment period following completion of a business 
combination. This therefore increased the goodwill recognised by a corresponding £1.1 million. In the prior year, the group incurred £0.2 million  
of costs associated with the acquisition, which were recorded within operating exceptional items.

Other business combinations
The group and the company acquired the People’s Park Tavern (Hackney) on 3 December 2018 and the Plantation (Poole) on 28 January 2019 as 
business combinations in the current period for considerations totalling £6.9 million. The aggregated fair value of the identifiable assets and liabilities  
of the acquired businesses was property and equipment of £6.9 million and inventories of £nil. The group incurred £0.5 million of costs associated 
with the acquisitions, which have been recorded within operating exceptional items.

Between the respective dates of acquisition and the balance sheet date these business combinations contributed £0.2 million of revenue and £nil 
operating profit to the group. If the acquisitions had been completed on 3 April 2018, group revenues for the period would have been expected  
to increase by £1.1 million and the group operating profit would have been expected to increase by £0.2 million.

In the prior period, the group and the company acquired the Chequers Inn (Hanham Mills), Park (Teddington) and the Bridge (Chertsey) as business 
combinations for considerations totalling £14.0 million. The aggregated fair value of the identifiable assets and liabilities of the acquired businesses was 
property and equipment of £14.0 million and inventories of £nil. The group incurred £1.0 million of costs associated with the acquisitions, which were 
recorded within operating exceptional items.

In the prior period between the respective dates of acquisition and the balance sheet date, the Chequers Inn, Park and the Bridge contributed £0.6 
million of revenue and £nil of operating profit to the group. If the acquisitions had been completed on 4 April 2017, group revenues for the prior 
period would have been expected to increase by £2.4 million and the group operating profit would have been expected to increase by £0.2 million.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 61

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements

Continued

13. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS (CONTINUED)

Cash flow from business combinations

Redcomb Pubs Limited 
Smiths of Smithfield Limited 
Other business combinations 

Total net cash outflow 

14. DIVIDENDS ON EQUITY SHARES

Final dividend (previous period) 
Interim dividend (current period) 

2019 
£m 

(18.4) 
– 
(6.9) 

(25.3) 

2019 
£m 

5.0 
4.9 

9.9 

2018
£m

–
(9.0)
(14.0)

(23.0)

2018
£m

4.7
4.6

9.3

2019 
Pence 

10.20 
9.97 

20.17 

2018 
Pence 

9.62 
9.41 

19.03 

In addition, the board is proposing a final dividend in respect of the period ended 1 April 2019 of 10.81 pence per share at a cost of £5.3 million. If approved,  
it is expected to be paid on 11 July 2019 to shareholders who are on the register of members at the close of business on 7 June 2019.

15. EARNINGS PER ORDINARY SHARE

(a) Earnings

Profit attributable to equity shareholders of the parent 
Operating exceptional items 
Tax attributable to above adjustments 

Adjusted earnings after tax 

Basic weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue 
Dilutive potential ordinary shares from outstanding employee share options 

Diluted weighted average number of shares 

(b) Basic earnings per share

Basic 
Effect of exceptional items and other adjustments 

Adjusted basic 

(c) Diluted earnings per share

Diluted 
Effect of exceptional items and other adjustments 

Adjusted diluted 

2019 
£m 

31.5 
3.9 
(0.1) 

35.3 

2018
£m

30.1
3.4
(0.4)

33.1

Number 

Number

  48,941,761 
41,753 

48,862,927 
33,413

  48,983,514 

48,896,340

Pence 

64.36 
7.77 

72.13 

Pence 

64.31 
7.76 

72.07 

Pence

61.60
6.14

67.74

Pence

61.56
6.13

67.69

The basic earnings per share figure is calculated by dividing the profit attributable to equity shareholders of the parent for the period by the 
weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue during the period.

Diluted earnings per share have been calculated on a similar basis taking into account 41,753 (2018: 33,413) dilutive potential shares under the 
SAYE scheme (see notes 8(e) and 27).

Adjusted earnings per share are presented to eliminate the effect of the exceptional items and the tax attributable to those items on basic and 
diluted earnings per share.

62

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

16. GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Group 

Goodwill 
£m 

Operating lease 
intangible asset 
£m 

Total 
£m 

Goodwill 
£m 

Company

Operating lease  
intangible asset 
£m 

Total
£m

Cost 

At 3 April 2017 

 Acquisitions 

At 2 April 2018 

Acquisitions 

At 1 April 2019 

Amortisation

At 3 April 2017 

Disposals/impairment 

At 2 April 2018 

Disposals/impairment 

At 1 April 2019 

Carrying amount 

At 3 April 2017 

At 2 April 2018 

At 1 April 2019 

21.5 

– 

21.5 

9.9 

31.4 

1.6 

0.2 

1.8 

– 

1.8 

19.9 

19.7 

29.6 

– 

– 

– 

3.9 

3.9 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

3.9 

21.5 

– 

21.5 

13.8 

35.3 

1.6 

0.2 

1.8 

– 

1.8 

19.9 

19.7 

33.5 

1.1 

1.0 

2.1 

– 

2.1 

– 

0.2 

0.2 

– 

0.2 

1.1 

1.9 

1.9 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

Goodwill and lease intangible assets are recognised in respect of the following acquisitions for group and company respectively:

Geronimo 
 580 Limited 
Smiths of Smithfield 
Redcomb Pubs Limited 

At 1 April 2019 

Group 

Goodwill 
£m 

Operating lease 
intangible asset 
£m 

18.8 
0.9 
1.1 
8.8 

29.6 

– 
– 
– 
3.9 

3.9 

Total 
£m 

18.8 
0.9 
1.1 
12.7 

33.5 

Company

Operating lease  
intangible asset 
£m 

Goodwill 
£m 

1.0 
0.9 
– 
– 

1.9 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

1.1

1.0

2.1

–

2.1

–

0.2

0.2

–

0.2

1.1

1.9

1.9

Total
£m

1.0
0.9
–
–

1.9

The opening group goodwill of £19.7 million arose on the acquisition of Geronimo Group Limited and 580 Limited. The cash generating 
units supporting the acquisition of Geronimo Group Limited are the pubs trading under the Geronimo concept. The cash generating 
units within 580 Limited are those individual pubs acquired as part of the 580 group. All cash generating units are routinely tested for 
impairment. Both cash generating units fall within the managed houses segment.  

During the current period, £1.1 million of goodwill arose upon the acquisition of Smiths of Smithfield Limited in the previous financial 
year. The goodwill was identified within the prescribed 12-month adjustment period following completion of a business combination.  
A further £8.8 million of goodwill and £3.9 million of operating lease intangible assets were recognised following the acquisition of 
Redcomb Pubs Limited on 23 January 2019. Both goodwill additions form part of the managed houses segment. 

During the prior period, an impairment assessment on the Bell at Stow identified an impairment of £0.2 million which was expensed 
through the income statement. This eliminated all goodwill resulting from the acquisition of the Bell at Stow Limited.  

During the prior period, the trade and assets of Geronimo Airports Limited were transferred into the company at book value and 
Geronimo Airports Limited went into members’ voluntary liquidation. As a result, associated goodwill was transferred into the company 
creating goodwill of £1.0 million within the company. 

The group tests goodwill annually for impairment or more frequently if there are indicators that goodwill may have been impaired.

There will be an impairment if the recoverable amount is lower than carrying value. Recoverable amount is value in use. The value in use 
is calculated using the budget approved by the board. For all cash generating units cash flows beyond this period assume 2.0% growth 
(2018: 2.0%), with the exception of Smiths of Smithfield Limited where an initial build-up growth period following acquisition is included, 
which is below the industry long-term average growth rate. The pre-tax discount rate applied to all cash flow projections is 8.0% (2018: 
7.8%). The calculation is most sensitive to revenue assumptions and the pre-tax discount rate; however, the board believes that the 
assumptions used are reasonable. The board has conducted a sensitivity analysis on the impairment test and neither a 10% decline in cash 
flow nor a 1% increase in the discount rate would lead to the impairment of the goodwill in the period ended 1 April 2019 and the board 
is therefore comfortable that presently no reasonably possible change in key assumptions would give rise to an impairment.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 63

  
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements

Continued

17. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

Group 

Fixtures, 
fittings & 
equipment 
£m 

Land & 
buildings 
£m 

Cost or valuation 
At 3 April 2017 
Additions 
Business combinations 
Disposals 
Fully depreciated assets 
Transfers from lease premiums 
Transfers from subsidiary companies 
Revaluation(1) 
  – effect of upward movement  
     in property valuation 
  – effect of downward movement  
     in property valuation 

At 2 April 2018 
Additions 
Business combinations 
Disposals 
Fully depreciated assets 
Revaluation(1) 
  – effect of upward movement  
     in property valuation 
  – effect of downward movement  
     in property valuation 

 647.3  
9.3 
12.7  
(1.0) 
(0.7) 
0.4  
–  

32.5  

(4.9) 

 695.6  
10.1 
23.5  
(1.1) 
(0.2) 

34.0  

(10.4) 

121.3  
20.7  
3.5 
– 
(11.3) 
– 
– 

–  

– 

134.2  
23.8 
5.8 
(0.3) 
(15.5) 

–  

– 

Total 
£m 

768.6  
30.0  
16.2  
(1.0) 
(12.0) 
0.4  
–  

32.5  

(4.9) 

829.8  
33.9  
29.3  
(1.4) 
(15.7) 

34.0  

(10.4) 

Company 

Fixtures, 
fittings & 
equipment 
£m 

Land & 
buildings 
£m 

 583.0  
9.3 
11.6  
(1.0) 
(0.7) 
–  
59.7  

32.5  

(4.9) 

 689.5  
9.9 
6.0  
(1.1) 
(0.2) 

33.2  

(10.4) 

106.0  
20.2 
3.4 
– 
(11.2) 
– 
15.6 

– 

– 

134.0  
22.2 
0.9 
(0.3) 
(15.5) 

–  

– 

Total 
£m

689.0
29.5 
15.0 
(1.0)
(11.9)
– 
75.3 

32.5

(4.9) 

823.5
32.1 
6.9 
(1.4)
(15.7)

33.2 

(10.4) 

At 1 April 2019 

751.5  

148.0  

899.5  

726.9  

141.3  

868.2

Depreciation and impairment 
At 3 April 2017 
Depreciation charge 
Disposals 
Fully depreciated assets 
Transfers from lease premiums 
Transfers from subsidiary companies 
Revaluation(1) 
  – effect of downward movement  
     in property valuation 
  – effect of upward movement  
     in property valuation 

At 2 April 2018 
Depreciation charge 
Disposals 
Fully depreciated assets 
Revaluation(1) 
  – effect of downward movement  
     in property valuation 
  – effect of upward movement  
     in property valuation 

30.5 
1.8 
– 
(0.7) 
0.2  
– 

1.8 

(3.7) 

29.9 
1.9 
(0.4) 
(0.2) 

3.5 

(5.1) 

49.0 
19.3 
– 
(11.3) 
– 
– 

– 

– 

57.0 
21.5 
(0.1) 
(15.5) 

– 

– 

79.5 
21.1 
– 
(12.0) 
0.2  
– 

1.8 

(3.7) 

86.9 
23.4 
(0.5) 
(15.7) 

3.5 

(5.1) 

25.3 
1.5  
– 
(0.7) 
–  
4.7 

1.8 

(3.7) 

28.9 
1.6 
(0.4) 
(0.2) 

3.5 

(5.1) 

43.6 
18.9 
– 
(11.2) 
– 
5.7 

– 

– 

57.0 
20.8 
(0.1) 
(15.5) 

– 

– 

68.9
20.4 
–
(11.9)
– 
10.4 

1.8 

(3.7)

85.9
22.4
(0.5)
(15.7)

3.5 

(5.1)

At 1 April 2019 

Net book value 
At 3 April 2017 

At 2 April 2018 

29.6 

62.9 

92.5 

28.3 

62.2 

90.5

616.8 

665.7 

72.3 

77.2 

689.1 

742.9 

557.7 

660.6 

62.4 

77.0 

620.1

737.6

At 1 April 2019 

721.9 

85.1 

807.0 

698.6 

79.1 

777.7

(1) The group’s net book value uplift during the period was £25.2 million (2018: £29.5 million). This uplift was recognised either in the revaluation 

reserve or the income statement, as appropriate. The impact of the revaluations was as follows: 

64

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

  Group 

 Company

2019 
£m 

2018 
£m 

2019 
£m 

2018
£m

(3.5) 
3.4 

(0.1) 

35.8 
(10.5) 

25.3 

25.2 

(1.8) 
2.1 

0.3 

34.1 
(4.9) 

29.2 

29.5 

(3.5) 
3.4 

(0.1) 

35.8 
(10.5) 

25.3 

25.2 

(1.8)
2.1

0.3

34.1
(4.9)

29.2

29.5

Income statement 
Revaluation loss charged as impairment 
Reversal of past impairment 

Revaluation reserve 
Unrealised revaluation surplus 
Reversal of past surplus 

Net revaluation increase in property 

(a) Revaluation of property and equipment 
On an annual basis, a portion of the group’s property estate is valued externally by Savills, independent Chartered Surveyors, in accordance with the 
provisions of the RICS Valuation – Professional Standards January 2014 (Revised April 2015) (‘the Red Book’), which takes account of the properties’ 
highest and best value. The remaining portion of the estate is valued internally, based upon the information supplied by the group’s external valuers 
and by Andrew Cox MRICS, the group’s director of property and tenancies and a Chartered Surveyor.

The valuation is based on information such as current and historic levels of turnover, gross profit, wages and overheads and resultant EBITDA. 
The valuers have then applied a multiplier to the EBITDA based upon the relative risks associated with the trading format, tenure and property. 
In a number of cases, the value of the property derived purely from an income approach understates the underlying property value. In these 
cases the valuers have applied a spot value to the property rather than a value derived from a multiple applied to the income. EBITDA represents 
a key unobservable input. In addition, the valuation was based on the valuer’s assumptions and models. Each individual pub is valued as a fully 
equipped operational entity after taking into account its trading potential, location, tenure, size and condition and other factors such as recent market 
transactions. Changes in these variables and assumptions could materially impact the valuations.

The external valuations made are consistent and in support with the values derived by Andrew Cox. These valuations and the assumptions used are 
reviewed by the board and the auditor. The highest and best use of the group’s properties do not differ materially from their current use.

These techniques are consistent with the principles in IFRS 13: Fair Value Measurement and use significant unobservable inputs such that the fair 
value measurement of each property within the portfolio has been classified as Level 3 (2018: Level 3) in the fair value hierarchy.

The key inputs to valuation on property and equipment are as follows:

Tenure 

Freehold and long leasehold 
Freehold and long leasehold 
Freehold and long leasehold 
Freehold and long leasehold 

EBITDA 
multiple range 
High 

Low 

6.0 
3.0 
Spot 
Spot 

12.0 
12.0 
Spot 
Spot 

Freehold and long leasehold 
Freehold and long leasehold 
Freehold and long leasehold 
Freehold and long leasehold 

6.0 
3.0 
Spot 
Spot 

12.0 
12.0 
Spot 
Spot 

Segment 
2019 

Managed houses 
Ram Pub Company 
Managed houses 
Ram Pub Company 

Segment total 
Short leaseholds 
Unallocated 

Total net book value at 1 April 2019 

2018 

Managed houses 
Ram Pub Company 
Managed houses 
Ram Pub Company 

Segment total 
Short leaseholds 
Unallocated 

Total net book value at 2 April 2018 

Number 
of pubs 

124 
45 
33 
20 

222 
47 
– 

269 

123 
48 
25 
17 

213 
42 
– 

255 

Value
of pubs
£m

599.2
40.7
106.0
23.9

769.8
24.2
13.0

807.0

574.6
39.5
80.9
20.3

715.3
19.3
8.3

742.9

If, at 2019, the property estate had been carried at historic cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses, its carrying amount would have 
been approximately £489.1 million (2018: £449.5 million).

The revaluation surplus represents the amount by which the fair value of the estate exceeds its historic cost.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 65

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements

Continued

17. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT (CONTINUED)
A sensitivity analysis has been conducted on the property estate to give an indication of the impact of movements in the most sensitive assumption, EBITDA. 
The analysis considers this single change with the other assumptions unchanged. In practice, changes in one assumption may be accompanied by changes 
in another. Changes in market values may also occur at the same time as any changes in assumptions. This information should not be taken as a projection 
of likely future valuation movements. Decreasing the EBITDA used in the revaluation by 10% would decrease the valuation by £64.0 million (2018: £61.4 
million). Increasing the EBITDA used in the revaluation by 10% would increase the valuation by £64.0 million (2018: £61.4 million).

(b) Assets held under finance leases 

The net book value of assets held under finance leases was:

Land and buildings held under finance leases 
Long leaseholds 

Finance lease and long leaseholds 

(c) Capital commitments 

Capital commitments not provided for in these financial statements and 
for which contracts have been placed amounted to: 

18. INVESTMENTS IN SUBSIDIARIES 

Cost and net book value 

At 3 April 2017 
Additions 
Disposals 

At 2 April 2018 
Additions 
Impairment 

At 1 April 2019 

Group subsidiary undertakings 

580 Limited 
BFI Limited* 
Geronimo Airports Limited (in members’ voluntary liquidation)** 
Geronimo Inns Limited 
Old Manor Trading Limited* 
Redcomb Pubs & Bars Limited* 
Redcomb Pubs Limited 
Smiths of Smithfield Limited 

*These shares are indirectly held.
**Dissolved on 24 April 2019. 

2019 
£m 

33.1 
34.0 

67.1 

2018
£m

31.3
29.8

61.1

6.0 

7.4

Company

£m

30.2
6.7
(1.2)

35.7
18.4
(18.3)

35.8

Country of 
incorporation 
and registration 

Country of 
principal 
operations 

% of 
 equity and 
votes held

England 
England 
England 
England 
England 
England 
England 
England 

England 
England 
England 
England 
England 
England 
England 
England 

100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100

During the current period, the company acquired the entire issued share capital of Redcomb Pubs Limited, the parent company of Redcomb Pubs & 
Bars Limited, BFI Limited and Old Manor Trading Limited. This created an additional investment of £18.4 million.

During the current period, an impairment loss of £18.3 million was recognised on the investment in Geronimo Inns Limited as the majority of the 
assets of Geronimo Inns Limited have been transferred into the company.

During the prior period, the company acquired 100% of the share capital of Smiths of Smithfield Limited, creating an additional investment of £6.7 million.

During the prior period, the trade and the assets of Geronimo Airports Limited were transferred into the company and in December 2017 Geronimo 
Airports Limited went into members’ voluntary liquidation. An investment disposal of £1.2 million was recognised in respect of this.

All group subsidiaries’ registered offices are at Riverside House, 26 Osiers Road, Wandsworth, London SW18 1NH.

66

 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
19. INVENTORIES

Finished goods and raw materials 

20. TRADE AND OTHER RECEIVABLES

Trade receivables 
Other receivables 
Prepayments 
Amounts due from subsidiaries 

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Group 

Company

2019 

2018 

2019 

£m 

3.7 

£m 

3.0 

£m 

3.4 

Group 

Company

2019 

2018 

£m 

2.8 
0.8 
4.7 
– 

8.3 

£m 

2.3 
0.8 
3.9 
– 

7.0 

2019 

£m 

2.8 
0.8 
4.3 
16.6 

24.5 

2018

£m

3.0

2018

£m

2.3
0.8
3.9
1.6

8.6

Trade receivables are denominated in sterling, are non-interest bearing and are generally on 0-20 days’ terms. They are carried at amortised cost less 
expected lifetime credit losses.

Considering the probability of default and loss given default, the 12-month expected credit losses on amounts due from subsidiaries are not material 
in the current period. 

At 1 April 2019, there were expected lifetime credit losses recognised against the trade receivables of £0.7 million (2018: bad debt provision  
of £0.8 million).

The table below provides an indication of the expected lifetime credit losses recognised in the current period in accordance with IFRS 9 and the bad 
debt provision in the prior period in accordance with IAS 39:

Opening balance 
Charge for period 
Amounts written off 

2019 
£m 

0.8 
– 
(0.1) 

0.7 

Management have applied the provision matrix to identify expected credit losses in the current period as follows:

Neither 
past due 
nor impaired 
£m 

2.1 
5% 
0.1 
2.1 

Total 
£m 

2.8 

0.7 
2.3 

<31 
days 
£m 

0.2 
40% 
0.1 
0.2 

31-60 
days 
£m 

0.2 
80% 
0.2 
– 

61-90 
days 
£m 

0.1 
100% 
0.1 
– 

2019 
Percentage loss rate   
Expected lifetime credit  
2018 

2018
£m

0.6
0.3
(0.1)

0.8

91+
days 
£m

0.2
100%
0.2
–

21. TRADE AND OTHER PAYABLES

Trade payables 
Other tax and social security 
Other creditors 
Accruals and deferred income 
Amounts due to subsidiaries 

Group 

Company

2019 
£m 

16.0 
6.9 
7.2 
5.8 
– 

35.9 

2018 
£m 

13.0 
4.8 
7.2 
5.9 
– 

30.9 

2019 
£m 

14.7 
6.2 
7.1 
5.8 
6.1 

39.9 

2018
£m

13.0
4.8
7.2
5.9
57.3

88.2

All trade payables are payable on demand and the carrying values above equate to fair value. 

Other creditors mainly consist of employee and property related creditors.

Amounts due to subsidiaries decreased as a result of settlement for the purchase of assets from Geronimo in the prior period.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 67

 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements

Continued

22. CAPITAL MANAGEMENT AND FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The group’s capital management objective is to maintain an optimal structure, measuring investment opportunities against returning capital to 
shareholders, but with an appropriate level of gearing. This provides a platform from which the group can seek to maximise shareholder value. 
The board monitors its capital using gearing ratios, such as net debt as a multiple of EBITDA and interest cover. The group works within a 
financial framework aimed at keeping net debt to EBITDA not greater than 4.0 times. At the period end, the net debt to EBITDA was 2.2 times 
(2018: 2.0 times), providing the group with plenty of headroom. All covenants in relation to bank loans have also been fully complied with. The 
group finances the business with a mixture of equity (note 26) and debt (note 29).

The group’s principal treasury objective is to manage financial risks and provide secure and competitively priced funding for the group’s activities. 
When appropriate, the group uses financial instruments and derivatives to manage these risks.

The borrowing requirements are met largely by bank debt and, to a very small extent, finance leases. Other sources of funding arise directly from 
trading activities, such as trade and other payables.

The main financial risks relate to interest rates, credit, liquidity and cash flow. Other risks that the group faces are referred to in the principal risks 
and uncertainties section starting on page 8. The board seeks to manage the financial risks in the following manner:

Interest rate risk

The objective is to minimise the group’s interest cost and provide protection from adverse movements in interest rates. The board does this by 
maintaining a mix of debt at fixed and variable interest rates. Interest rate swaps are used to help manage this exposure by fixing interest rates whilst 
matching the maturity profile and cash flows of the underlying debt. These swaps are designated as cash flow hedges.

The following table demonstrates the sensitivity of the group’s profit before tax to a change in interest rates, with all other variables held constant.

2019 

2018 

Increase/ 
decrease  
in % 

Effect on profit 
before tax 
£m 

+1.0 
–0.5 

+1.0 
–0.5 

(0.60) 
0.30 

(0.40) 
0.20 

Credit risk

The objective is to minimise the group’s credit risk. Credit risks include counterparties defaulting on their debts or other obligations which would 
impair the group’s ability to recover the carrying value of that asset. This is assessed with regard to historical credit losses experienced, the current 
economic climate, expected changes in forecasts and specific other factors of future events.

The group has financial control policies which it follows before entering into arrangements with a new counterparty or when there is a substantial 
change in the existing relationship. The group’s maximum credit risk is considered to be limited to its trade receivables (note 20). The company is 
not considered to have any exposure to credit risk from amounts due from subsidiaries.

Liquidity and cash flow risk

The objective is to ensure that the group has sufficient financial resources to develop its existing business and exploit opportunities as they arise. The 
board manages liquidity risk by ensuring that the group’s debt profile is long-dated, facilities are committed and the group does not rely unduly on 
short-term borrowings. The group’s borrowings are dependent on certain financial covenants being met. If these were breached, funding could be 
withdrawn, leaving the group with insufficient working capital and if the group were unable to find other alternative sources of funding it may not be 
possible to continue trading in its current form. The board is vigilant in managing the business, assessing and monitoring acquisitions and investments, 
and forecasting the group’s profit and cash flows. The funding position of the group is continuously reviewed against the headroom in the group’s 
borrowing facilities.

(a) Derivative financial instruments: interest rate swaps

Current liabilities 

Non-current liabilities 

Total financial liabilities 

Group and company

2019 

£m 

(1.9) 

(4.2) 

(6.1) 

2018

£m

(1.9)

(4.7)

(6.6)

Fair value movement of interest rate swaps recognised in other comprehensive income  

0.5 

4.3

The group has a number of interest rate swaps that fix future interest cash flows on the variable interest rate bank loans. These instruments result in 
the group paying fixed interest rates on the notional amount for each swap’s life. The swaps are being used to hedge the exposure to changes in the 
group’s cash flows on its variable rate loans due to changes in LIBOR. The secured loans and the interest rate swaps have the same critical terms over 
their relevant period.

The duration of each swap and its respective interest rates once combined with the bank’s margin and other costs are detailed in part (b) of this note.

Of the interest rate swaps, £2.0 million in payable within one year, £1.9 million in payable between one and two years and £2.5 million is payable between two 
and five years.

68

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(b) Loans, borrowings, interest rates and fair values

2019 

Secured 
£30 million loan swapped into fixed rate 
£20 million loan swapped into fixed rate 
£30 million loan swapped into fixed rate 
£10 million loan swapped into fixed rate 
£10 million loan swapped into fixed rate 
£100 million revolving credit facility 

Group and company

Term or 
expiry date 

Effective 
interest rate 
  when hedged 

Variable 
interest rate 

Period 
rate fixed 

when unhedged(1) 

  March 2021 
  March 2021 
  March 2023 
  May 2024 
  May 2024 
  March 2024 

4.34% 
2.23% 
5.97% 
2.77% 
2.71% 
Variable 

L+1.50% 
L+1.50% 
L+0.95% 
L+1.35% 
L+1.50% 
L+0.75% 

2 years 
2 years 
4 years 
5 years 
5 years 
None 

(1) For variable rate loans, the interest rate payable is either 1-month or 3-month LIBOR (L) plus the margin shown.

Unsecured

Current borrowings 

Finance leases 

Financial liabilities 

Current borrowings 

Non-current financial liabilities 

Financial liabilities 

2018 

Secured 
£30 million loan swapped into fixed rate 
£20 million loan swapped into fixed rate 
£30 million loan swapped into fixed rate 
£10 million loan swapped into fixed rate 
£10 million loan swapped into fixed rate 
£75 million revolving credit facility 

Group and company

 Term or 
  expiry date 

Effective 
interest rate 

Variable 
interest rate 

Period 
rate fixed 

when hedged  when unhedged(1) 

  March 2021 
  March 2021 
  March 2023 
  May 2024 
  May 2024 
  March 2023 

4.34% 
2.23% 
5.97% 
2.77% 
2.71% 
Variable 

L+1.50% 
L+1.50% 
L+0.95% 
L+1.35% 
L+1.50% 
L+0.75% 

3 years 
3 years 
5 years 
6 years 
6 years 
None 

(1) For variable rate loans, the interest rate payable is either 1-month or 3-month LIBOR (L) plus the margin shown.

Unsecured

Current borrowings 

Finance leases 

Financial liabilities 

Current borrowings 

Non-current financial liabilities 

Financial liabilities 

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Fair 
value 
2019 
£m 

31.2 
20.0 
34.7 
10.0 
10.0 
63.2 

Book
value
2019
£m

30.0
20.0
30.0
9.9
9.9
63.2

169.1 

163.0

8.5

0.6

172.1

Group  Company

2019 
£m 

8.5 

2019
£m

8.5

163.6 

163.6

172.1 

172.1

Fair 
value 
2018 
£m 

31.5 
19.8 
35.3 
10.0 
9.8 
37.4 

Book
value
2018
£m

29.9
20.0
30.0
9.9
9.9
37.4

143.8 

137.1

10.0

0.6

147.7

Group  Company

2018 
£m 

10.0 

137.7 

147.7 

2018
£m

10.0

137.7

147.7

The secured borrowings are secured on the assets of the group (other than two pubs, broadly up to a value of £12.0 million, which provide security to the 
Young & Co.’s Brewery, P.L.C. Pension Scheme).

The fair values of borrowings and interest rate derivatives are estimates based on prevailing market rates of interest and expected future cash flows arising 
from those instruments. The group enters into interest rate derivatives with various banks; these counterparties each have investment grade credit ratings. 
Interest rate swaps are valued using Level 2 valuation techniques, which employ the use of market observable inputs. The valuation techniques include swap 
models using present value calculations. The models incorporate various inputs, including the credit quality of counterparties, discount factors and interest 
rate curves. As at 1 April 2019, the marked-to-market value of other derivative asset positions is net of a credit valuation adjustment attributable to derivative 
counterparty default risk. The changes in counterparty credit risk had no material effect on the hedge effectiveness assessment for derivatives designated in 
hedge relationships.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 69

 
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements

Continued

22. CAPITAL MANAGEMENT AND FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (CONTINUED)
Bank overdrafts
Bank overdrafts are used for day to day cash management. The group has a £10 million overdraft facility with interest linked to the Bank of England 
base rate. 

Bank loans
The group has a bilateral £10 million term loan with Barclays Bank plc and a bilateral £10 million term loan with HSBC Bank plc, both repayable on 
23 May 2024.

The group also has a bilateral £30 million term loan with the Royal Bank of Scotland and a £50 million syndicated facility with the Royal Bank of 
Scotland and Barclays. The bilateral loan with the Royal Bank of Scotland is repayable on 28 March 2023. The syndicated loan is repayable on 17 
March 2021. Interest rate swaps have been entered into in respect of these bank loans which result in the effective interest charge being fixed at the 
rates disclosed on the previous page.

Revolving credit facility
In the prior period, the group entered into a new £75 million revolving credit facility split evenly with Barclays and HSBC. This was used to replace 
the previous equivalent sum revolving credit facility with Royal Bank of Scotland and Barclays. Arrangement fees relating to the revolving credit 
facility were capitalised and will be written off to the income statement over the life of the facility.

During the current year the group exercised its right to extend the maturity date of the revolving credit facility by 1 year, making the new maturity 
date March 2024. A further 1 year extension is available to the group in March 2020, should it see fit to take advantage of this facility. The group 
also exercised an option to increase the limit of the revolving credit facility by £25 million to £100 million. The availability of these funds serve to 
maintain the headroom available to the group following the acquisition of the Redcomb group in January 2019.

At the period end, £64.0 million was drawn. Final repayment of the total drawn down balance is due as one payment on 20 March 2024. This is a 
committed facility which permits drawings of different amounts and for different periods. These drawings carry interest at a margin above LIBOR with 
a commitment payment on the undrawn portions. Interest is payable at each loan renewal date.

(c) Maturity of the group’s financial liabilities and expiry of facilities

2019 

Borrowings 
Trade and other payables 

2018 

Borrowings 
Trade and other payables 

Maturity of financial liabilities

Within 
one year 
£m 

10.3 
30.5 

40.8 

Within 
one year 
£m 

10.9 
25.3 

36.2 

Between 
one and 
two years 
£m 

51.8 
– 

51.8 

Between 
one and 
two years 
£m 

1.1 
– 

1.1 

Between 
two and 
five years 
£m 

112.3 
– 

112.3 

Between 
two and 
five years 
£m 

122.8 
– 

122.8 

After
five years 
£m 

20.0 
– 

20.0 

After
five years 
£m 

20.0 
– 

20.0 

Total
£m

194.4
30.5

224.9

Total
£m

 154.8
25.3

180.1

The above maturity table includes contractual gross undiscounted cash flows of the borrowings, related interest, net derivatives, finance leases, trade 
and other payables and contractual accruals.

70

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(d) Fair value hierarchy for instruments measured at fair value 

Financial liabilities at fair value
Interest rate swaps 

Financial liabilities at fair value
Interest rate swaps 

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Group and company

Fair value 
2019 
£m 

Level 1 
2019 
£m 

Level 2 
2019 
£m 

Level 3
2019
£m

6.1 

6.1 

– 

– 

Fair value 
2018 
£m 

Level 1 
2018 
£m 

6.6 

6.6 

– 

– 

6.1 

6.1 

Level 2 
2018 
£m 

6.6 

6.6 

–

–

Level 3
2018
£m

–

–

Level 1
Fair values measured using quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. 

Level 2 
Fair values measured using inputs, other than quoted prices included within Level 1, that are observable for the asset or liability either directly  
or indirectly.   

Interest rate swaps are accounted for at their fair value, calculated using a discounted cash flow method. Actual and estimated cash flows are 
discounted by applying discount factors derived from observable market data and by considering the credit risk. 

Level 3
Fair values measured using inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on observable market data.

(e) Financial assets and other financial liabilities
Financial assets and other financial liabilities of the group and the company are not included in this note because their book value approximates their 
carrying value.

(f) Changes in liabilities arising from financing activities 

Bank loans 

Finance leases 

At 
3 April 
2018 
£m 

147.1 

0.6 

Total liabilities from financing activities 

147.7 

13.9 

Group and company

  Changes  Acquired 
in fair  Redcomb 
loans 
value 
£m 
£m 

Cash 
flows 
£m 

Expired 
loans 
£m 

Other 
£m 

13.9 

– 

– 

– 

– 

10.5 

– 

10.5 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

At
1 April
2019
£m

171.5

0.6

172.1

The acquired Redcomb loans were immediately repaid on acquisition of Redcomb Pubs Limited. The repayment of the loan is presented within the 
cash flow movement.

Bank loans 

Derivative financial instruments 

Finance leases 

Group and company

At 
4 April 
2017 
£m 

132.6 

10.8 

0.6 

Changes 
in fair 
value 
£m 

– 

(4.3) 

– 

Cash 
flows 
£m 

14.2 

– 

– 

New 
loans 
£m 

20.0 

– 

– 

Expired 
loans 
£m 

(20.0) 

– 

– 

Total liabilities from financing activities 

144.0 

14.2 

(4.3) 

20.0 

(20.0) 

At
2 April
2018
£m

147.1

6.6

0.6

154.3

Other 
£m 

0.3 

0.1 

– 

0.4 

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 71

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements

Continued

23. DEFERRED TAX
Deferred tax relates to the following:

Deferred tax assets 
Interest rate swaps 
Retirement benefit schemes 
Decelerated capital allowances 
Capital losses 
Share based payments 
Trade losses 

Group 

Company

2019 
£m 

2018 
£m 

2019 
£m 

2018
£m

1.1 
1.5 
3.3 
0.6 
0.7 
0.2 

7.4 

1.2 
1.0 
2.8 
0.6 
0.8 
– 

6.4 

1.1 
1.5 
3.3 
0.6 
0.7 
0.2 

7.4 

1.2
1.0 
2.8
0.6
0.8
–

6.4

Deferred tax liabilities 
Rolled over gains on property revaluations 

(60.6) 

(54.6) 

(57.9) 

(54.6)

Net deferred tax liabilities 

(53.2) 

(48.2) 

(50.5) 

(48.2)

Opening balance 
Tax credit in the income statement 
Tax charge in the statement of comprehensive income   
Recognised on acquisition 
Transfer of property to parent company 

Closing balance 

Movements in the deferred tax assets are shown below:

Group 

Company

2019 
£m 

(48.2) 
0.9 
(3.3) 
(2.6) 
– 

(53.2) 

2018 
£m 

(44.2) 
1.2 
(5.2) 
– 
– 

(48.2) 

2019 
£m 

(48.2) 
1.0 
(3.3) 
– 
– 

(50.5) 

Interest 
rate swap 
£m 

   Retirement  Decelerated  
capital 
allowances 
£m 

benefit 
scheme 
£m 

Capital 
losses 
£m 

Share 
based 
payments 
£m 

Trade 
losses 
£m 

Deferred tax assets
Balance as at 3 April 2017 

(Charged)/credited to the income statement 
Charged to other comprehensive income 

Balance as at 2 April 2018 

1.9 

– 
(0.7) 

1.2 

(Charged)/credited to the income statement 
– 
(Charged)/credited to other comprehensive income  (0.1) 

Balance as at 1 April 2019 

1.1 

2.2 

(0.2) 
(1.0) 

1.0 

0.2 
0.3 

1.5 

1.9 

0.9 
– 

2.8 

0.5 
– 

3.3 

0.5 

0.1 
– 

0.6 

– 
– 

0.6 

0.9 

(0.1) 
– 

0.8 

(0.1) 
– 

0.7 

– 

– 
– 

– 

0.2 
– 

0.2 

2018
£m

(40.0)
1.3
(5.2)
–
(4.3)

(48.2)

Total
£m

7.4

0.7
(1.7)

6.4

0.8
0.2

7.4

The deferred tax assets and liabilities at the balance sheet date are calculated at the substantively enacted rate of 19% for balances that will be realised 
or settled between 3 April 2018 and 1 April 2020 and 17% for the remainder.

The group has realised capital losses of £4.9 million (2018: £4.9 million), which are available indefinitely to offset against future capital gains. A deferred 
tax asset has not been recognised in respect of £1.6 million (2018: £1.6 million) of these losses because at present it is unclear whether suitable gains will 
arise in the foreseeable future to utilise them. The company has realised capital losses of £3.3 million (2018: £3.3 million). A deferred tax asset has been 
recognised in respect of these losses in both the current and the prior period. The group’s tax losses can be carried forward for an unlimited period.

In addition, the group has unrealised capital losses of £9.3 million (2018: £10.0 million). No deferred tax asset has been recognised in respect of these 
losses (2018: £nil) because it is uncertain whether they will be utilised. The company has unrealised capital losses of £9.3 million (2018: £9.8 million); 
no deferred tax asset has been recognised in respect of these losses (2018: £nil).

72

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

24. RETIREMENT BENEFIT SCHEMES
The company operates one defined benefit pension scheme, namely the Young & Co.’s Brewery, P.L.C. Pension Scheme, a defined contribution pension scheme 
and a post retirement health care scheme. The defined benefit scheme is closed to new entrants.

The aggregate contribution to the defined contribution scheme was £1.1 million (2018: £0.8 million) which is recognised as an expense in the income statement.

Independent, professionally qualified actuarial advice is sought to determine the liabilities arising from the defined benefit scheme, using the projected unit credit 
method. The scheme is formally valued every three years.  The obligations under the scheme consist mainly of a final salary scheme which provides members 
with benefits based on length of service and salary.

Through its defined benefit scheme and post retirement health care scheme, the group is exposed to a number of risks. For details of the principal risks and 
uncertainties, see page 8. 

The employer contribution to the defined benefit scheme for the period ended 1 April 2019 was £1.4 million of which £1.2 million were special contributions 
(2018: £1.3 million of which £1.2 million were special contributions) plus premiums of £0.2 million (2018: £0.2 million) to the post retirement health care 
scheme. The current arrangement as regards contribution rates specifies that special contributions of £1.2 million will be payable until October 2023.

Future employee contribution rates are projected to be between 8% and 11% of pensionable earnings. Future employer contribution rates are projected to be 
18% of pensionable earnings. The total contributions to the defined benefit scheme in the 2020 financial period are expected to be £1.5 million which includes a 
special contribution of £1.2 million. The total contributions to the post retirement health care scheme in the 2020 financial period are expected to be £0.2 million. 
During the prior year, the company provided security over two managed houses (broadly, the amount recoverable under the security is limited to £10 million) 
with additional funding contributions continuing to be paid for the foreseeable future. The two managed houses had previously been subject to a floating charge 
in favour of the banks which provide the company with its loan facilities.

The Guaranteed Minimum Pension (GMP) is the minimum pension which a UK occupational pension scheme must provide for those employees who were 
contracted out of the State Earnings-Related Pensions Scheme between 6 April 1978 and 5 April 1997. Following the ruling of the High Court of Justice of England 
and Wales on 26 October 2018, the need to equalise the effect of differences in GMPs between males and females was made more certain and consequently an 
allowance for the effect of GMP equalisation has been made in the current financial period. Although a number of methodologies could be used to determine the 
impact, the group has adopted method C2 to identify its best estimate of the additional liabilities. These are charged as a past service cost in the income statement 
as an exceptional item (note 9) since the liabilities relate to employee service between 1990 and 1997 and they have no link to current business performance. The 
increase in liabilities as at 1 April 2019 is estimated at £2.5 million, assessed using market conditions at the date of the ruling as required by IAS 19.

The defined benefit scheme is closed to new entrants.

Financial assumptions

Discount rate 
Inflation 
Rate of increase in salaries 
Discretionary pension increases 
Rate of revaluation of deferred pensions 
General medical expenses inflation 

Mortality assumptions

The life expectancies underlying the valuation are as follows:

Current pensioners (at age 65) – males 
Current pensioners (at age 65) – females 
Future pensioners (at age 65) – males 
Future pensioners (at age 65) – females 

Pension 

Health care 

2019 
% 

2.50 
3.30 
2.50 
3.30 
2.30 
N/A 

2018 
% 

2.70 
3.30 
2.50 
3.30 
2.30 
N/A 

2019 
% 

2.50 
3.30 
N/A 
N/A 
N/A 
9.00 

2019 
Years 

21.7 
24.0 
23.1 
25.5 

2018
%

2.70
3.30
N/A
N/A
N/A
9.00

2018
Years

22.1
24.0
23.8
25.8

At the period end date, the average age of current pensioners was 73 years (2018: 73 years) and for future pensioners was 55 years (2018: 54 years). 

The weighted average duration of liabilities for the current period was 18.4 years (2018: 18.6 years). 

A one percentage point change in the assumed rate of increase in health care costs would have the following effects:

Effect on the aggregate service cost and interest cost 
Effect on the defined benefit obligation 

Increase 
£m 

Decrease
£m

– 
0.3 

–
(0.3)

The sensitivities regarding the principal assumptions used to measure the schemes’ liabilities are set out below. The illustrations consider the single 
change shown with the other assumptions assumed to be unchanged. In practice, changes in one assumption may be accompanied by changes in 
another assumption. Changes in market values may also occur at the same time as the changes in assumptions and may or may not offset them.

Assumption 
Discount rate 
Rate of inflation 
Rate of increase in salary 
Discretionary pension increases 
Rate of revaluation of deferred pensions 
Life expectations 

Change in assumption 
Increase/decrease by 0.5% 
Increase/decrease by 0.5% 
Increase/decrease by 0.5% 
Increase/decrease by 0.5% 
Increase/decrease by 0.5% 
Increase by 1 year 

Impact on scheme liabilities
Decrease/increase by 9.0%
Increase/decrease by 7.0%
Increase/decrease by nil%
Increase/decrease by 5.0%
Increase/decrease by 1.0%
Increase by 5.0%

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 73

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements

Continued

24. RETIREMENT BENEFIT SCHEMES (CONTINUED)

Pension scheme and health care scheme assets and liabilities

Equities 
Diversified growth fund 
Absolute return 
Corporate bonds 
Insured pensions 
Other 

Total fair value of assets 

Present value of retirement benefit liabilities 

Scheme deficit 

Group and company

Assets and liabilities

2019 
£m 

37.8 
20.5 
– 
56.7 
9.0 
0.1 

124.1 

(132.7) 

2018
£m

36.2
11.3
12.2
56.4
9.6
(0.8)

124.9

(131.0)

(8.6) 

(6.1)

The pension scheme assets includes some of the company’s A shares with a fair value of £5.4 million (2018: £5.2 million). There are no property 
assets of the scheme occupied by the company.

Of the above assets, £115.0 million are quoted securities.

Movement in scheme deficits in the period

2019 
Health 
care 
scheme 
£m 

Pension 
scheme 
£m 

(a) Changes in the present value of the schemes are as follows:

Opening deficit 
Current service cost 
Past service cost 
Contributions 
Other finance charges 
Remeasurement through other comprehensive income 

Closing deficit 

(2.4) 
(0.3) 
(2.5) 
1.4 
– 
(1.3) 

(5.1) 

(3.7) 
– 
– 
0.2 
(0.1) 
0.1 

(3.5) 

(b) Recognised in the income statement  

Group and company

Pension 
scheme 
£m 

2018 
Health 
care 
scheme 
£m 

(8.8) 
(0.3) 
– 
1.3 
(0.2) 
5.6 

(2.4) 

(4.0) 
– 
– 
0.2 
(0.1) 
0.2 

(3.7) 

Total 
£m 

(6.1) 
(0.3) 
(2.5) 
1.6 
(0.1) 
(1.2) 

(8.6) 

Total
£m

(12.8)
(0.3)
–
1.5
(0.3)
5.8

(6.1)

Current service cost included in operating costs 

(0.3) 

– 

(0.3) 

(0.3) 

– 

(0.3)

Net interest expense 

– 

(0.1) 

(0.1) 

(0.2) 

(0.1) 

(0.3)

(c) Recognised in the statement of comprehensive income 

Experience gains arising on the schemes’ liabilities 
Changes in demographic assumptions underlying  
the  schemes’ liabilities 
Changes in financial assumptions underlying  
the  schemes’ liabilities 

Remeasurement of obligations 
Return on  schemes’ assets (less amounts included  
in the net interest expense) 

Net remeasurement recognised 

1.1 

2.3 

(4.3) 

(0.9) 

(0.4) 

(1.3) 

0.1 

0.1 

(0.1) 

0.1 

– 

0.1 

1.2 

2.4 

(4.4) 

(0.8) 

(0.4) 

(1.2) 

1.1 

0.9 

2.0 

4.0 

1.6 

5.6 

0.2 

– 

– 

0.2 

– 

0.2 

1.3

0.9

2.0

4.2

1.6

5.8

74

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Group and company

2019 
Pension  Health care 
scheme 
scheme 
£m 
£m 

Pension 
scheme 
£m 

2018 
Health care 
scheme 
£m 

Total 
£m 

(d) Movements in the present value of schemes’ obligations during the period 

Opening defined benefit obligations 
Current service cost 
Past service cost 
Interest on obligations 
Contributions by  schemes’ members 
Remeasurement of obligations 
Benefits paid 

(127.3) 
(0.3) 
(2.5) 
(3.3) 
(0.1) 
(0.9) 
5.2 

(3.7) 
– 
– 
(0.1) 
– 
0.1 
0.2 

(131.0) 
(0.3) 
(2.5) 
(3.4) 
(0.1) 
(0.8) 
5.4 

(132.3) 
(0.3) 
– 
(3.5) 
(0.1) 
4.0 
4.9 

Present value of schemes’ liabilities 

(129.2) 

(3.5) 

(132.7) 

(127.3) 

(e) Change in fair value of schemes’ assets 

Opening fair value of  schemes’ assets 
Interest on  schemes’ assets 
Return on  schemes’ assets (less amounts included  
in the net interest expense) 
Contributions by employer 
Contributions by  schemes’ members 
Benefits paid 

124.9 
3.3 

(0.4) 
1.4 
0.1 
(5.2) 

– 
– 

– 
0.2 
– 
(0.2) 

124.9 
3.3 

(0.4) 
1.6 
0.1 
(5.4) 

123.5 
3.3 

1.6 
1.3 
0.1 
(4.9) 

Fair value of schemes’ assets 

124.1 

– 

124.1 

124.9 

(4.0) 
– 
– 
(0.1) 
– 
0.2 
0.2 

(3.7) 

– 
– 

– 
0.2 
– 
(0.2) 

– 

25. OTHER NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES 

At 3 April 2017 

Released on disposal of property 

Created 

At 2 April 2018 

Released 

At 1 April 2019 

Group and company
Deferred 
income 
£m 

Provisions 
£m 

1.1 

(0.5) 

0.1 

0.7 

(0.5) 

0.2 

– 

– 

0.5 

0.5 

(0.2) 

0.3 

Total
£m

(136.3)
(0.3)
–
(3.6)
(0.1)
4.2
5.1

(131.0)

123.5
3.3

1.6
1.5
0.1
(5.1)

124.9

Total
£m

1.1 

(0.5) 

0.6

1.2 

(0.7)

0.5

The provisions relate to four property leases where the expected operating income does not cover the rents payable. The rent payable 
commitments range from 1 to 45 years.

26. SHARE CAPITAL AND RESERVES 

Issued and fully paid shares – 12.5p each 

Opening balance 

Issued under employee share schemes 

2019 
Shares 

2019 
£000 

2018 
Shares 

2018
£000

48,874,822 

6,110 

48,809,518 

6,102 

90,218 

11 

65,304 

8

Closing balance 

48,965,040 

6,121 

48,874,822 

6,110

Of the opening balance, 29,714,822 are A shares and 19,160,000 are non-voting shares (2018: 29,649,518 A shares, 19,160,000 non-voting 
shares). Of the closing balance, 29,805,040 are A shares and 19,160,000 are non-voting shares (2018: 29,714,822 A shares, 19,160,000 non-
voting shares).

For details of the A shares issued in the current period, see Director’s emoluments (note 8(b)) and Share Awards (note 27). 

The two classes of shares are equal in all respects except that the non-voting shares do not carry the right to receive notices of, or to attend, 
speak or vote at, general meetings.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 75

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements

Continued

Share premium account
The share premium account represents the excess of proceeds received over the nominal value of new shares issued. 

Capital redemption reserve
The capital redemption reserve arose from the repurchase and subsequent cancellation of ordinary share capital. The balance represents the 
nominal amount of the share capital cancelled.

Hedging reserve
Hedging reserve adjustments arise from the movement in fair value of the group’s derivative instruments used as an effective hedge. 

Revaluation reserve
The revaluation reserve represents unrealised gains generated on the property estate from annual property valuations. It arises from the 
surplus of fair value over the original cost, net of any associated deferred taxation.

27. SHARE AWARDS

The group operates two types of share-based payment arrangements: an executive director / senior management employee deferred bonus 
scheme (“DBS”) and a Save-As-You-Earn (“SAYE”) scheme. 

(a) DBS
This scheme is designed to incentivise the executive directors and certain other senior management employees to deliver long-term superior shareholder 
returns. For the directors, it is expected that half of any bonus will be settled in shares, with the other half being paid in cash except to the extent that the 
director elects to receive all or part of it in shares instead. The values of these parts of the bonus awards are subject to caps equal to 125% of basic annual 
salary in the case of Patrick Dardis and to 100% of basic annual salary in the case of Torquil Sligo-Young and Tracy Dodd. For the senior management 
employees, there is no expectation that any bonus will be settled in shares, but the individual may elect to take up to half in this way. For every share 
taken in place of cash by a director or senior management employee, the individual is allowed to subscribe at nominal value for one ‘matching’ share. The 
company retains the right to determine, at its sole and absolute discretion, the form in which any bonus is provided (i.e. by issue or transfer of shares and/
or payment of cash); this is notwithstanding any election that a director or senior management employee may make. So, if the company decides to pay a 
bonus entirely in cash, no ‘matching’ shares are receivable. None of the individuals are generally free to sell any of the shares received before the end of 
a restricted period which ordinarily will end three years after the shares are received – special rules apply if an individual’s employment terminates earlier 
by reason of death, retirement, illness, disability or redundancy. The ‘matching’ shares are subject to satisfaction of a further condition relating to the extent 
to which the group’s adjusted earnings per ordinary share in respect of the group’s continuing operations for a particular performance period exceeds the 
same measure for an earlier financial period. In certain circumstances, the shares received, whether ‘matching’ or otherwise, have to be transferred to the 
company or to an employee benefit trust designated by the company at a pre-agreed price or, in the case of ‘matching’ shares, for no consideration. The 
number of shares to be received by an individual in order to fulfil their entitlement is based on the market price of the company’s A shares as shown in the 
online version of the Financial Times published on the date on which the shares are allotted (in the case of shares to be issued) or on the date of transfer set 
out in the relevant transfer form (in the case of shares to be transferred).

The following table summarises the outstanding entitlements to A shares under the DBS as at 2 April 2018 and 1 April 2019 of the directors and senior 
management employees who served during the period ended 1 April 2019. All these shares are registered in the relevant individual’s name and, save as 
explained above, are fully vested. The weighted fair value of the A shares awarded during the period was 1,710 pence per share (2018: 1,342 pence per 
share). During the year, the ‘matching’ shares were issued on the same date as the ‘non-matching’ shares which had a market value of 1,705p per share 
(2018: 1,332p per share).

 Date  
of award 

   Matching 
shares 
(Y/N) 

At  
2 April 
2018  

Awarded 
during 
the period 

 Restrictions 
ceased to 
apply during 
the period  

Transferred 
during 
the period(1) 

At 
1 April 
2019 

Issue price 
(pence per
share)(2)

June 2015 
June 2015 
June 2016 
June 2016 

June 2015 
June 2016 
June 2016 
June 2017 
June 2017 
June 2018 
June 2018 

June 2015 
June 2015 
June 2016 
June 2016 
June 2017 
June 2017 
June 2018 
June 2018 

June 2017 
June 2018 
June 2018 

N 
Y 
N 
Y 

N 
N 
Y 
N 
Y 
N 
Y 

N 
Y 
N 
Y 
N 
Y 
N 
Y 

N 
N 
Y 

22,446 
11,223 
22,199 
11,099 

7,522 
15,495 
7,747 
17,671 
8,835 
– 
– 

8,977 
4,488 
10,428 
5,214 
7,045 
3,522 
– 
– 

2,579 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

(22,446) 
(11,223) 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
14,179 
7,089 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
6,929 
3,464 

– 
4,329 
393 

(7,522) 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

(8,977) 
(4,488) 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
22,199 
11,099 

– 
15,495 
7,747 
17,671 
8,835 
14,179 
7,089 

– 
– 
10,428 
5,214 
7,045 
3,522 
6,929 
3,464 

2,579 
4,329 
393 

1,280.0
12.5
1,205.0
12.5

1,280.0
1,205.0
12.5
1,332.0
12.5
1,705.0
12.5

1,280.0
12.5
1,205.0
12.5
1,332.0
12.5
1,705.0
12.5

1,332.0
1,705.0
12.5

Stephen Goodyear 

Patrick Dardis 

Torquil Sligo-Young 

Tracy Dodd 

76

 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Steven Robinson(3) 

Senior management 
employees 

 Date  
of award 

   Matching 
shares 
(Y/N) 

At  
2 April 
2018  

Awarded 
during 
the period 

 Restrictions 
ceased to 
apply during 
the period  

Transferred 
during 
the period(1) 

At  Market price 
(pence per
share)(2)

1 April 
2019 

June 2015 
June 2015 
June 2016 
June 2016 
June 2017 
June 2017 
June 2018 
June 2018 
June 2015 
June 2015 
June 2016 
June 2016 
June 2017 
June 2017 
June 2018 
June 2018 

N 
Y 
N 
Y 
N 
Y 
N 
Y 
N 
Y 
N 
Y 
N 
Y 
N 
Y 

2,343 
2,343 
2,551 
2,551 
7,252 
3,626 
– 
– 
5,369 
5,369 
5,898 
5,898 
6,936 
6,936 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
9,975 
4,987 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
6,807 
6,807 

(2,343) 
(2,343) 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
(5,369) 
(5,369) 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
(2,551) 
(2,551) 
(7,252) 
(3,626) 
(5,000) 
(4,987) 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
4,975 
– 
– 
– 
5,898 
5,898 
6,936 
6,936 
6,807 
6,807 

1,280.0
12.5
1,205.0
12.5
1,332.0
12.5
1,705.0
12.5
1,280.0
12.5
1,205.0
12.5
1,332.0
12.5
1,705.0
12.5

(1)These shares were transferred to the Ram Brewery Trust II, an employee benefit trust designated by the company. The transfers were at the issue 
price per share shown in the far right-hand column, apart from the following:

•  the 5,000 June 2018 awarded shares were transferred at 1,522.5p per share: this was the price for an A share as shown in the online version  
  of the Financial Times published on 31 January 2019, being the day of the transfer; and 

•  those shares with an issue price of 12.5p were transferred for no consideration.

(2)For ‘matching’ shares, the price shown is the nominal value.

(3)Steven resigned from the board on 11 December 2018 and left the company.

The performance periods for the awards dated June 2016, 2017 and 2018 are the group’s four-year financial periods ending on or around  
31 March 2019, 2020 and 2021 respectively.

The group’s adjusted earnings per share performance conditions set a range for the adjusted earnings per share for the relevant period; they are not 
disclosed due to commercial sensitivity. It is anticipated that the maximum target for the adjusted earnings per share performance conditions will be 
met as to 90% for the awards dated June 2016, as to 50% for the awards dated June 2017 and as to 30% for the awards dated June 2018.

A charge of £0.2 million (2018: £0.5 million) was made to the group and company income statements in respect of the outstanding 70,190  
‘matching’ shares at 1 April 2019 (2018: 103,473).

(b) SAYE
The scheme enables eligible directors and employees to acquire options over the company’s A shares. The options can be granted at a discount of 
up to 20% of the market price of an A share at the time invitations to join the scheme for the relevant year are issued, with the proceeds of a related 
SAYE savings contract then being used to acquire shares at a later date if the option holders choose to do so. All employees who have worked for the 
minimum qualifying period on an invitation date are eligible to join the scheme. Options granted under the scheme are not subject to performance 
conditions other than continued employment. These options are all equity-settled.

In the current period, options over 52,275 A shares (2018: 73,312 A shares) were granted under the scheme at an exercise price of 1,364p per share 
(2018: 1,066p per share). These options will generally be exercisable between 1 September 2021 and 28 February 2022.

Options over 134,096 A shares were outstanding at the beginning of the period. During the period, options over 20,087 A shares lapsed and 
options over 24,402 A shares were exercised at 1,013p per share. The weighted average share price of shares exercised in the period was 1,710p 
per share. The options that were exercised resulted in an increase in share capital of £3,050.25 and an increase in share premium of £244,142.01. 
A charge of £0.1 million (2018: £0.1 million), valued using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, was made to the group and company income 
statements in respect of these options in the period. As at 1 April 2019, options over 141,882 A shares remain outstanding.

Valuation assumptions
Assumptions used in the Black-Scholes model to determine the fair value of share options at grant date for the period ending 1 April 2019 and 2 April 
2018 were as follows:

Share price at grant date (pence) 
Exercise price (pence) 
Expected volatility (%) 
Option life (years) 
Expected dividends (expressed as dividend yield %) 
Risk-free interest rate (%) 
Probability of forfeiture (%) 

Group and company

2018 plan 

2017 plan 

2016 plan 

2015 plan

1,705.0 
1,364.0 
26.2 
3 
1.3 
0.7 
17.2 

 1,332.0 
1,066.0 
8.5 
3 
1.3 
2.4 
33.7 

 1,205.0 
964.0 
18.0 
3 
1.4 
0.9 
15.7 

 1,265.5
 1,013.0
17.3
3
1.5
1.0
44.3

Volatility is based on the standard deviation of an A share of Young & Co.'s Brewery, P.L.C. over the three years prior to the grant date, adjusted for 
management’s view of future volatility of share price. The assumed volatility may not necessarily be the actual outcome. 

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 77

 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the financial statements

Continued

28. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Directors
Directors’ emoluments and retirement benefits are disclosed in notes 8(b) and (c). Directors’ interests in the company’s share capital are disclosed  
or referred to on page 22 and in notes 8(e) and 27. No other transactions requiring disclosure have been entered into with the directors.

Pension scheme and other trust
The Young & Co.’s Brewery, P.L.C. Pension Scheme (the “Scheme”) provides pensions and other benefits to employees of the group and certain 
other individuals. It is managed by a corporate trustee, Young’s Pension Trustees Limited (“YPTL”). Torquil Sligo-Young, a director of the company, 
and two other individuals, neither of whom is a director of the company, are the directors of YPTL. As at 1 April 2019, the Scheme held 337,067  
A shares (2018: 337,067), being 1.13% of the class. In March 2018, the company granted a charge over two of its pubs as security for its obligation 
to make payments to the Scheme: the company felt that it was appropriate to agree to this so as to demonstrate its commitment to the Scheme  
and to provide YPTL, as trustee, with greater comfort as to the security of the Scheme. The charge was based on a standard form document issued 
by the Pension Protection Fund.

The Ram Brewery Trust II holds assets for the benefit of employees and former employees. It is managed by a corporate trustee, RBT II Trustees 
Limited (“RBT II”). Two individuals, neither of whom is a director of the company, are the directors of RBT II. As at 1 April 2019, the trust held 
29,740 A shares (2018: 7,345), being 0.10% of the class. During the period, 3,572 A shares (2018: 31,104) were transferred out in connection with 
the company’s profit sharing scheme (see note 8(d)), nil A shares (2018: 28,542) were transferred out in connection with the company’s savings-
related share option scheme (see note 8(e)) and 25,967 A shares (2018: nil) were transferred in in connection with the company’s deferred annual 
bonus scheme (see note 27(a)).

Key management
The group considers key management personnel to be solely the directors of the company as they are the only people with authority and 
responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities of the group. The compensation provided to the directors is detailed in note 8; in 
addition, the group made employers’ national insurance contributions of £0.3 million (2018: £0.4 million) and incurred a share based payment charge 
of £0.2 million (2018: £0.3 million).

29. NET CASH GENERATED FROM OPERATIONS AND ANALYSIS OF NET DEBT

Group 

Company

2019 
£m 

39.5 
5.0 
0.1 

44.6 
23.4 
0.9 
– 
– 
0.1 
(0.4) 
– 
2.5 
(1.3) 
(0.7) 
0.3 

(0.4) 
2.4 
(2.2) 

69.2 

2018 
£m 

37.6 
5.6 
0.3 

43.5 
21.1 
0.7 
0.2 
– 
(0.3) 
(0.3) 
0.5 
– 
(1.2) 
0.1 
0.6 

(0.2) 
0.4 
(3.7) 

61.4 

2019 
£m 

72.7 
5.5 
0.1 

78.3 
22.4 
0.4 
– 
18.3 
0.1 
(0.4) 
– 
2.5 
(1.3) 
(0.7) 
0.3 

(0.4) 
(15.9) 
(47.3) 

56.3 

2018
£m

29.3
6.6
0.3

36.2
20.4
0.3
0.2
–
(0.3)
(0.3)
0.5
–
(1.2)
0.1
0.6

(0.9)
7.6
(9.4)

53.8

  Group 

 Company

2019 
£m 

8.5 
(8.5) 
(163.6) 

2018 
£m 

7.2 
(10.0) 
(137.7) 

2019 
£m 

8.2 
(8.5) 
(163.6) 

(163.6) 

(140.5) 

(163.9) 

2018
£m

7.2
(10.0)
(137.7)

(140.5)

Profit before tax on continuing operations 
Net finance cost 
Other finance charges 

Operating profit on continuing operations 
Depreciation 
Amortisation of lease premiums 
Goodwill impairment 
Investment impairment 
Movement on revaluation of properties 
Profit on sales of property 
Loss on disposal 
Guaranteed minimum pension equalisation 
Difference between pension service cost and cash contributions paid 
Movement in other provisions 
Share based payments 
Movements in working capital 
   - Inventories 
   - Receivables 
   - Payables 

Net cash generated from operations 

Analysis of net debt

Cash 
Current borrowings – current borrowings and loan capital 
Non-current borrowings – loan capital and finance lease 

Net debt 

78

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

30. OBLIGATIONS UNDER LEASES
(a) Obligations under finance leases
Finance leases for property are for terms ranging from 50 to 999 years. Minimum lease payments for most leases are nominal amounts. Leases do not 
have a purchase option but most are renewable at the lessee’s option at the end of the lease term. 

Future minimum lease payments under finance leases are as follows:

Future minimum lease payments due: 
   - Not later than one year 
   - Later than one year and not later than five years 
   - Later than five years 

Less: finance charges allocated to future years 

The present value of minimum lease payments is analysed as follows: 
   - Not later than one year 
   - Later than one year and not later than five years 
   - Later than five years 

Group 

Company

2019 
£m 

2018 
£m 

2019 
£m 

2018
£m

– 
0.2 
3.3 

3.5 
(2.9) 

0.6 

– 
– 
0.6 

0.6 

– 
0.2 
2.5 

2.7 
(2.1) 

0.6 

– 
– 
0.6 

0.6 

– 
0.2 
3.3 

3.5 
(2.9) 

0.6 

– 
– 
0.6 

0.6 

–
0.2
2.5

2.7
(2.1)

0.6

–
–
0.6

0.6

Future minimum rentals receivable from non-cancellable subleases on the above properties as at 1 April 2019 were £0.3 million (2018: £0.4 million).

(b) Operating lease agreements where the group is lessee
Operating leases for properties are for terms ranging from 1 to 54 years. Minimum lease payments are typically reviewed every five years and  
are based on a percentage of turnover or a negotiated rate per square foot. Most property leases are renewable at the lessee’s option at the end  
of the lease term. Equipment is leased over terms of not more than four years.

2019 
£m 

Future minimum rentals payable under non-cancellable operating leases are as follows:
   - Not later than one year 
   - Later than one year and not later than five years 
   - Later than five years 

8.7 
31.3 
80.3 

120.3 

Group 

Company

2018 
£m 

7.2 
25.7 
60.3 

93.2 

2019 
£m 

6.7 
23.7 
56.5 

86.9 

2018
£m

6.2
22.5
55.7

84.4

Future minimum rentals receivable from non-cancellable subleases on the above properties as at 1 April 2019 were £0.9 million (2018: £0.8 million).

(c) Operating lease agreements where the group is lessor
The group leases licensed properties to third party tenants. These non-cancellable leases are over terms varying from 1 to 16 years.

Future minimum rentals receivable under non-cancellable operating leases are as follows:
3.6 
   - Not later than one year 
5.8 
   - Later than one year and not later than five years 
3.9 
   - Later than five years 

3.7   
5.4 
4.0 

3.6 
5.8 
3.9 

13.3 

13.1 

13.3 

3.7
5.4
4.0

13.1

31. Post balance sheet events
There were no post balance sheet events except for completion of a private placement debt facility; after the end of the financial year the group secured 
additional long-term debt financing through a private placement. This will see the group raise £35 million in July 2019, with Barings receiving senior 
secured notes at a fixed interest rate of 3.30% for 20 years.

32. Contingent liabilities
There were no contingent liabilities at the current or prior period balance sheet date.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 79

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Five year review

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Revenue 

303.7 

279.3 

268.9 

245.9 

227.0

2019 

2018 

2017 

2016 

2015

52 weeks 

52 weeks 

53 weeks 

52 weeks 

52 weeks

£m 

£m 

£m 

£m 

£m

Operating profit before exceptional items 

Operating exceptional items 

Net finance costs and other finance charges 

Profit before tax 

Taxation charge 

Profit for the period from continuing operations 

Adjusted profit before tax 

Net assets employed

Non-current assets 

Current assets and assets held for sale 

Current liabilities 

Non-current liabilities 

Financed by

Share capital 

Reserves 

48.5 

(3.9) 

(5.1) 

39.5 

(8.0) 

31.5 

43.4 

46.9 

(3.4) 

(5.9) 

37.6 

(7.5) 

30.1 

41.0 

46.1 

(3.4) 

(5.7) 

37.0 

(7.0) 

30.0 

40.4 

41.2 

(2.8) 

(5.6) 

32.8 

(6.2) 

26.6 

35.6 

37.6

3.4

(5.4)

35.6

(9.4)

26.2

32.2

860.8 

21.2 

(51.2) 

(237.5) 

782.6 

18.0 

(47.1) 

(204.3) 

724.0 

18.5 

(71.4) 

(178.1) 

684.8 

22.7 

(41.8) 

(213.2) 

642.3

9.0

(38.2)

(205.5)

593.3 

549.2 

493.0 

452.5 

407.6

6.1 

587.2 

593.3 

6.1 

543.1 

549.2 

6.1 

486.9 

493.0 

6.1 

446.4 

452.5 

6.1

401.5

407.6

Purchase of fixed assets, lease premiums  

and business combinations 

67.0 

53.0 

38.3 

45.1 

50.9

Net debt 

(163.6) 

(140.5) 

(126.6) 

(130.2) 

(129.0)

Per 12.5p ordinary share

Adjusted basic earnings from continuing operations 

Basic earnings from continuing operations 

Dividends – paid in period 

72.13 

64.36 

20.17 

67.74 

61.60 

19.03 

66.43 

61.51 

17.95 

58.44 

54.73 

16.94 

51.04

54.14

15.97

Pence 

Pence 

Pence 

Pence 

Pence

Gearing 

27.6% 

25.6% 

25.7% 

28.8% 

31.6%

Average number of employees 

4,735 

4,116 

3,924 

3,735 

3,496

80

 
 
 
 
 
 
Notice of meeting

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

If you hold any A shares, this notice is important and requires your immediate attention. If you are in any doubt as to any aspect  
of the proposals referred to in this notice or as to the action you should take, you should seek your own advice from a stockbroker, 
solicitor, accountant or other professional adviser. If you have sold or otherwise transferred all of your shares, please pass this copy 
of the annual report to the purchaser or transferee, or to the person who arranged the sale or transfer, so they can pass it to the 
person who now holds the shares.

If you hold any A shares, you should have received a proxy form for use at the meeting. Guidance notes on how to complete it, and on other 
matters, are given on the form itself and in the notes to this notice. Whether or not you propose to attend the meeting, please complete and 
submit the proxy form; it must be received by Computershare Investor Services PLC by 11.30am on Sunday, 7 July 2019. Appointing a proxy does 
not stop you from attending the meeting and voting. An attendance card is attached to the proxy form; please bring this with you to the meeting.

If you do not hold any A shares, this notice is for information purposes only.

Notice is hereby given that the 130th annual general meeting of Young & Co.’s Brewery, P.L.C. (the “Company”) will be held in the Civic 
Suite in Wandsworth Town Hall, Wandsworth High Street, Wandsworth, London SW18 2PU on Tuesday, 9 July 2019 at 11.30am for the 
following purposes:

Ordinary resolutions
To consider and, if thought fit, to pass the following resolutions which will be proposed as ordinary resolutions:

1.  To receive the Company’s annual accounts for the financial year ended 1 April 2019, together with the strategic report, directors’ report  

and the auditor’s report on those accounts and reports.

2.  To declare a final dividend of 10.81p per share for the financial year ended 1 April 2019.

3.  That Ernst & Young LLP be, and is hereby, re-appointed as the Company’s auditor to hold office from the conclusion of this meeting until 

the conclusion of the next general meeting of the Company at which the Company’s annual accounts and reports are laid in accordance 
with section 437 of the Companies Act 2006.

4.  That the directors be, and are hereby, authorised to set the remuneration of the Company’s auditor.

5.  That Stephen Goodyear be, and is hereby, re-appointed as a director.

6.  That Patrick Dardis be, and is hereby, re-appointed as a director.

7.  That the Company and all companies that are subsidiaries of the Company at any time during the period for which this resolution has 

effect be, and are hereby, authorised to:
(a) make political donations to political parties, not exceeding £50,000 in total;
(b) make political donations to political organisations other than political parties, not exceeding £50,000 in total; and
(c) incur political expenditure, not exceeding £50,000 in total;
in each case at any time during the period starting with the date this resolution is passed and ending at the end of next year’s annual 
general meeting (or, if earlier, at the close of business on 30 September 2020) but the aggregate amount of political donations and political 
expenditure that may be made and incurred by the Company and its subsidiaries pursuant to this authority must not exceed £50,000.

  Note: for the purposes of this resolution, “political donation” has the meaning given in section 364 of the Companies Act 2006, “political 
expenditure” has the meaning given in section 365 of the Companies Act 2006 and reference to a “political party” or to a “political 
organisation” is to a party or to an organisation to which Part 14 of the Companies Act 2006 applies.

8.  That the directors be, and are hereby, authorised to allot shares in the Company and to grant rights to subscribe for, or to convert any 

security into, shares in the Company:
(a)  up to a nominal amount of £2,040,210 (such amount to be reduced by the nominal amount allotted or granted under paragraph (b)  

below in excess of such sum); and

(b)  comprising equity securities (as defined in section 560(1) of the Companies Act 2006) up to a nominal amount of £4,080,420 (such  
amount to be reduced by the nominal amount allotted or granted under paragraph (a) above) in connection with an offer by way  
of a rights issue:
(i)  to holders of ordinary shares in proportion (as nearly as may be practicable) to their existing holdings; and
(ii)  to holders of other equity securities as required by the rights of those securities or as the directors otherwise consider necessary,
and so that the directors may impose any limits or restrictions and make any arrangements which they consider necessary or  
appropriate to deal with treasury shares, fractional entitlements, record dates, legal, regulatory or practical problems in, or under  
the laws of, any territory or any other matter,  

such authorities to apply until the end of next year’s annual general meeting (or, if earlier, until the close of business on 30 September 
2020) but, in each case, during this period the Company may make offers and enter into agreements which would, or might, require 
shares to be allotted or rights to subscribe for, or to convert securities into, shares to be granted after the authority ends and the directors 
may allot shares or grant rights to subscribe for, or to convert securities into, shares under any such offer or agreement as if the authority 
had not ended.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 81

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notice of meeting

Continued

Special resolutions
To consider and, if thought fit, to pass the following resolutions which will be proposed as special resolutions:

9.  That if resolution 8 is passed, the directors be, and are hereby, given power to allot equity securities (as defined in section 560(1) of 

the Companies Act 2006) for cash under the authorities given by that resolution and/or to sell ordinary shares held by the Company as 
treasury shares for cash as if section 561 of the Companies Act 2006 did not apply to any such allotment or sale, such power to be limited:
(a)  to the allotment of equity securities and sale of treasury shares for cash in connection with an offer of, or invitation to apply for, equity   

securities (but in the case of the authority granted under paragraph (b) of resolution 8, by way of a rights issue only):
(i)  to holders of ordinary shares in proportion (as nearly as may be practicable) to their existing holdings; and
(ii)  to holders of other equity securities as required by the rights of those securities or as the directors otherwise consider necessary,
and so that the directors may impose any limits or restrictions and make any arrangements which they consider necessary or  
appropriate to deal with treasury shares, fractional entitlements, record dates, legal, regulatory or practical problems in, or under  
the laws of, any territory or any other matter; and

(b)  in the case of the authority granted under paragraph (a) of resolution 8 and/or in the case of any sale of treasury shares for cash,  
to the allotment (otherwise than under paragraph (a) above) of equity securities or sale of treasury shares up to a nominal amount  
of £306,031, 

such power to apply until the end of next year’s annual general meeting (or, if earlier, until the close of business on 30 September 2020) 
but during this period the Company may make offers and enter into agreements which would, or might, require equity securities to be 
allotted (and treasury shares to be sold) after the power ends and the directors may allot equity securities (and sell treasury shares) under 
any such offer or agreement as if the power had not ended.

10.  That the Company be, and is hereby, authorised for the purposes of section 701 of the Companies Act 2006 to make one or more 

market purchases (as defined in section 693(4) of the Companies Act 2006) of its ordinary shares of 12.5p each (“Ordinary Shares”),  
such authority to be limited:
(a)  to a maximum number of 4,896,204 Ordinary Shares (which may be all A shares, all non-voting shares or a mix); and
 (b)  by the condition that, in each case exclusive of expenses, the minimum price that may be paid for an Ordinary Share is the nominal 

amount of that share and the maximum price that may be paid for an Ordinary Share is an amount equal to 5% above the average of 
the middle market quotations for that share as derived from the AIM appendix to the Daily Official List of the London Stock Exchange 
for the five business days immediately preceding the day on which that share is contracted to be purchased, 

such authority to apply until the end of next year’s annual general meeting (or, if earlier, until the close of business on 30 September 2020) 
but during this period the Company may enter into a contract to purchase Ordinary Shares which would, or might, be executed wholly  
or partly after the authority ends and the Company may purchase Ordinary Shares pursuant to any such contract as if the authority had  
not ended.

By order of the board

ANTH O NY S C H RO E D E R
Company Secretary
22 May 2019

Young & Co.’s Brewery, P.L.C. 
Registered office: 
Riverside House, 
26 Osiers Road, 
Wandsworth, 
London SW18 1NH 
Registered in England and Wales No. 32762

82

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Notes

Entitlement to attend, speak and vote at the meeting
To be entitled to attend, speak and vote at the meeting (and for the purpose of determining the number of votes you may cast),  
your name must be entered in that part of the register of members relating to holders of A shares at 7am on Monday, 8 July 2019  
(or, in the event of any adjournment, at 7am on the day before the day of the adjourned meeting).

What you need to bring
If you come to the meeting, please bring with you the attendance card attached to the proxy form.

Appointment of proxies
If you hold any A shares, you may appoint a proxy to exercise all or any of your rights to attend and to speak and vote on your behalf 
at the meeting. You can do this by completing the proxy form which came with this document. If you did not receive a proxy form and 
believe that you should have one, or if you require additional forms, please contact the Company or its registrar. To be valid, your proxy 
form must be received by the Company’s registrar no later than 11.30am on Sunday, 7 July 2019.

Who to appoint as a proxy
A proxy does not have to be a member of the Company but must attend the meeting for your vote to be counted and to otherwise 
represent you. Your proxy could be the chairman of the meeting, a director of the Company or someone you know personally who 
has agreed to attend and represent you. If you appoint a proxy, you may still attend the meeting (but your proxy appointment will 
automatically be terminated).

Multiple proxies
You may appoint more than one proxy in relation to the meeting provided each proxy is appointed to exercise the rights attached 
to a different A share or different A shares held by you. A space has been included in the proxy form to allow you to specify the 
number of A shares in respect of which that proxy is appointed. If you return the proxy form duly executed but leave this space 
blank, you will be deemed to have appointed the proxy in respect of all of your holding of A shares. If you wish to appoint more 
than one proxy in respect of your A shares, you should contact the Company or its registrar for further proxy forms or photocopy  
the form as required; you should also read the notes on the proxy form relating to the appointment of multiple proxies.

The following principles apply in relation to the appointment of multiple proxies:

(a)  The Company will give effect to your intentions and include votes wherever and to the fullest extent possible.

(b)  Where a proxy does not state the number of A shares to which it applies (a “blank proxy”) then, subject to the following principles 
where more than one proxy is appointed, that proxy is deemed to have been appointed in relation to the total number of A shares 
registered in your name (“your entire holding”). If there is a conflict between a blank proxy and a proxy which does state the number  
of A shares to which it applies (a “specific proxy”), the specific proxy will be counted first, regardless of the time it was sent or received 
(on the basis that as far as possible the conflicting forms of proxy should be judged to be in respect of different A shares) and remaining 
A shares will be apportioned to the blank proxy (pro rata if there is more than one).

(c)  Where there is more than one proxy appointed and the total number of A shares in respect of which proxies are appointed is no 

greater than your entire holding, it is assumed that proxies are appointed in relation to different A shares, rather than that conflicting 
appointments have been made in relation to the same A shares; that is, there is only assumed to be a conflict where the aggregate 
number of A shares in respect of which proxies have been appointed exceeds your entire holding.

(d)  When considering conflicting proxies, later proxies will prevail over earlier proxies, and which proxy is later will be determined on 

the basis of which proxy is last sent (or, if the Company is unable to determine which is last sent, last received). Proxies in the same 
envelope will be treated as sent and received at the same time to minimise the number of conflicting proxies.

(e)  If conflicting proxies are sent or received at the same time in respect of (or deemed to be in respect of) your entire holding,  

none of them will be treated as valid.

(f)  Where the aggregate number of A shares in respect of which proxies are appointed exceeds your entire holding and it is not 

possible to determine the order in which they were sent or received (or they were all sent or received at the same time), the 
Company’s registrar or the Company will take steps to try to clarify the situation with you should time permit. If this is not 
possible, none of your proxies will be treated as valid.

(g)  If you appoint a proxy or proxies and then decide to attend the meeting in person and vote in person, then the vote in person 

will override any proxy vote. If the vote in person is on a poll and is in respect of your entire holding then all proxy votes will be 
disregarded. If, however, you vote at the meeting on a poll in respect of less than your entire holding, then if you indicate on your 
poll card that all proxies are to be disregarded, that shall be the case; but if you do not specifically revoke proxies, then the vote in 
person will be treated in the same way as if it were the last received proxy and earlier proxies will only be disregarded to the extent 
that to count them would result in the number of votes being cast exceeding your entire holding.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 83

Notice of meeting

Continued

(h)  In relation to paragraph (g), if you do not specifically revoke proxies, it will not be possible for the Company to determine your 

intentions in this regard. However, in light of the aim to include votes wherever and to the fullest extent possible, it will be assumed 
that earlier proxies should continue to apply to the fullest extent possible.

Changing proxy instructions
To change your proxy instructions, you need to submit a new proxy appointment – further copies can be obtained from the Company 
or its registrar. However, in doing so, you should be aware of the principles that apply to multiple proxies – see the note headed 
Multiple proxies. If you are in any doubt as to what to do where you wish to change your proxy instruction, please contact the 
Company’s registrar or your stockbroker, solicitor, accountant or other professional adviser.

Termination of proxy appointments
If you wish to revoke your proxy instruction, you must send to the Company’s registrar a signed hard copy notice clearly stating your 
intention to revoke your proxy appointment. If you are a corporation, the revocation notice must be executed under your common seal 
or signed on your behalf by an officer of you or an attorney for you. Any power of attorney or any other authority under which the 
revocation notice is signed (or a notarially certified copy of such power or authority) must be included with the revocation notice. The 
revocation notice must be received by the Company’s registrar before the start of the meeting. If you attempt to revoke your proxy 
appointment but the revocation is received after the time specified then, subject as follows, your proxy appointment will remain valid. 
Appointing a proxy does not stop you from attending the meeting and voting. If you appoint a proxy and attend the meeting, your 
proxy appointment will automatically be terminated.

Multiple corporate representatives
If you are a corporation, you may appoint one or more corporate representatives who may exercise on your behalf all your powers  
as a member provided they do not do so in relation to the same A shares.

Name and address of the Company’s registrars
The Company’s registrar is Computershare Investor Services PLC. They can be contacted at The Pavilions, Bridgwater Road, Bristol, 
BS99 6ZZ. Their telephone number is 0370 7071420.

Display documents
The following will be available for inspection at the Company’s registered office during normal business hours (Saturdays, Sundays and 
public holidays excepted) from the date of this notice until 10am on the day of the meeting:

•  copies of the executive directors’ service contracts; and

•  copies of the letters of appointment of the non-executive directors.

After 10am on the day of the meeting, these documents will be available for inspection in the Civic Suite in Wandsworth Town Hall, 
Wandsworth High Street, Wandsworth, London SW18 2PU until the end of the meeting.

Communication
Any address or number used for the purpose of sending or receiving documents or information by electronic means that is referred 
to in the Company’s 2019 annual report or any proxy form for the Company’s 130th annual general meeting may not be used to 
communicate with the Company for any purpose other than any expressly stated.

84

Explanatory notes to the notice of meeting

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Notice of the 130th annual general meeting of Young & Co.’s 
Brewery, P.L.C. (the “Company”) to be held on Tuesday, 9 July 
2019 is set out on pages 81 to 84. The directors consider that all 
the resolutions to be put to the meeting are in the best interests 
of the Company and its shareholders as a whole and unanimously 
recommend that all A shareholders vote in favour of them as they 
intend to do in respect of their beneficial holdings.

Resolutions 1 to 8 are ordinary resolutions; this means that for 
each of those resolutions to be passed, more than half of the votes 
cast must be in favour.

Resolution 1: annual accounts and reports 
The directors have to lay copies of the Company’s annual accounts, 
the strategic report, directors’ report and the auditor’s report on those 
accounts and reports before you at a general meeting; this is a legal 
requirement.

Resolution 2: final dividend 
An interim dividend of 9.97p per share was paid in December 2018. 
The directors are recommending a final dividend of 10.81p per share 
for the year ended 1 April 2019, bringing the total dividend for the year 
to 20.78p per share. Subject to approval being given, the final dividend 
is expected to be paid on 11 July 2019 to shareholders on the register  
at the close of business on 7 June 2019.

Resolution 3: re-appointment of auditor 
An auditor is required to be appointed for each financial year of the 
Company. Ernst & Young LLP, the Company’s current auditor, has 
agreed to serve for the current financial year and their re-appointment  
is therefore being proposed.

Resolution 4: auditor’s remuneration 
In accordance with normal practice, the directors are asking for your 
authority to set the auditor’s remuneration.

Resolutions 5 and 6: re-appointments of directors 
Stephen Goodyear and Patrick Dardis will be retiring automatically 
from the office of director at the meeting; this is because they held that 
position at the last two annual general meetings and did not retire at 
either of them. They are both seeking re-appointment and their brief 
biographical and other details are on page 20.

Resolution 7: political donations etc. 
This resolution seeks renewal of the existing authority for the Company 
and its subsidiaries to make or incur certain political donations and 
political expenditure. Although there is no intention to make or incur 
such donations or expenditure, the legislation is very broadly drafted 
and may catch activities such as funding seminars and other functions to 
which politicians are invited and supporting certain bodies involved in 
policy review and law reform. The authority given by this resolution will 
be capped at £50,000 in total.

Resolution 8: general authority to allot 
This resolution effectively seeks renewal of the directors’ existing 
authority to allot shares and grant rights. Paragraph (a) of this resolution 
would give the directors the authority to allot shares or grant rights to 
subscribe for, or to convert any securities into, shares up to an aggregate 
nominal amount equal to £2,040,210 – this amount represents one-
third of the Company’s issued share capital as at 17 May 2019 (but 
would be reduced by the nominal amount of any shares allotted or 
rights granted under paragraph (b) of this resolution in excess of 
£2,040,210). In line with guidance issued by the Investment Association, 
paragraph (b) of this resolution would give the directors authority to 
allot shares or grant rights to subscribe for, or to convert any securities 
into, shares in connection with a rights issue in favour of shareholders 
up to an aggregate nominal amount equal to £4,080,420, as reduced 
by the nominal amount of any shares allotted or rights granted under 
paragraph (a) of this resolution – this amount (before any reduction) 
represents two-thirds of the Company’s issued share capital as at 17 May 
2019. Therefore the maximum nominal amount of shares and rights 

that may be allotted or granted under this resolution is £4,080,420. The 
authorities sought under paragraphs (a) and (b) of this resolution will 
expire at the end of next year’s annual general meeting (or, if earlier, 
the close of business on 30 September 2020). The directors have no 
present intention of exercising either of the authorities sought under this 
resolution other than in respect of any one or more of the Company’s 
share schemes. As at the date of the notice, no shares are held by the 
Company in treasury. 

Resolutions 9 and 10 are special resolutions; this means that for 
each of those resolutions to be passed, at least three-quarters of 
the votes cast must be in favour.  

Resolution 9: general power to disapply 
This resolution effectively seeks renewal of the directors’ existing power 
to allot shares (or sell any shares which the Company elects to hold in 
treasury) for cash without first offering them to existing shareholders in 
proportion to their existing shareholdings. This authority would, similar 
to previous years, be limited to allotments or sales in connection with pre-
emptive offers and offers to holders of other equity securities if required 
by the rights of those shares or as the directors otherwise consider 
necessary, or otherwise up to an aggregate nominal amount of £306,031. 
This aggregate nominal amount represents approximately 5% of the 
Company’s issued share capital as at 17 May 2019. The power sought 
under this resolution will expire at the end of next year’s annual general 
meeting (or, if earlier, the close of business on 30 September 2020).

Resolution 10: authority to undertake market purchases of own shares 
This resolution effectively seeks renewal of the Company’s existing 
authority to make market purchases of not more than 4,896,504 of 
its shares, being no more than 10% of its issued share capital as at 17 
May 2019. The authority sought under this resolution will expire at 
the end of next year’s annual general meeting (or, if earlier, the close 
of business on 30 September 2020). The directors have no present 
intention of exercising the authority to make market purchases, 
however the authority provides the flexibility to allow them to do so in 
the future. The directors will exercise this authority only when to do so 
would be in the best interests of the Company, and of its shareholders 
generally, and could be expected to be earnings enhancing. Any 
shares purchased pursuant to this authority will be held in treasury or 
be cancelled. The minimum price, exclusive of expenses, that may be 
paid for a share is its nominal value. The maximum price, exclusive 
of expenses, that may be paid for a share is an amount equal to 5% 
above the average of the middle market quotations for that share for 
the five business days immediately preceding the date of the purchase. 
As at 1 May 2019, there were options outstanding over 140,349 A 
shares, representing 0.29% of the Company’s issued share capital 
at that date. If the Company were to purchase (and cancel) its own 
shares to the fullest possible extent of its existing authority and of 
the authority sought pursuant to this resolution, these would then 
represent 0.36% of the Company’s issued share capital. No warrants 
to subscribe for shares are outstanding.

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 85

Pubs and hotels

London and the surrounding areas

Stow on the Wold
Bell at Stow H

Chipping Norton
Blue Boar

Oxford
Angel & Greyhound
King’s Arms

Greenford
Bridge Hotel H

Kew
Coach & Horses H

Richmond
Lass O’Richmond Hill 
Marlborough
Old Ship
Orange Tree H
Red Cow T
Shaftesbury
Waterman’s Arms T
White Cross

Kingston
Albert
Bishop
Grey Horse T
Spring Grove

Surbiton
Black Lion T
Victoria
Waggon & Horses T

Isleworth
Castle T
Coach & Horses

Twickenham
Alexander Pope H

Teddington
Abercorn Arms T
Park H

Staines
Bells T

Walton-on-Thames 
Royal George T
Swan 

Chertsey
Crown Hotel H
Bridge H

Weybridge
Hand & Spear H

Bracknell
Bull

Esher
Bear Inn H

Claygate
Foley H

Oxshott
Bear

Radlett
Red Lion Hotel H

Hendon
Beaufort 
Greyhound T

Kilburn 
Queen’s Arms T

Harlesden
Grand Junction Arms T

Ealing
Grange
New Inn T
Village Inn

Shepherd’s Bush
Bull (Westfield) 
Eagle
Defector’s Weld 

Hammersmith
Brook Green Hotel H 
Thatched House T
Hammersmith Ram
Old Ship

Mortlake
Jolly Gardeners T

East Sheen
Hare & Hounds

Barnes
Bull’s Head
Coach & Horses
White Hart

Putney
Boathouse
Coat and Badge
Duke’s Head
Green Man
Half Moon
Spotted Horse 

Roehampton 
Angel T 
King’s Head

Wimbledon
Alexandra 
Crooked Billet
Dog & Fox H
Fire Stables
Hand in Hand
Rose & Crown H

Epsom
Rising Sun T

Walton-on-the-Hill
Chequers

Maida Vale
Prince Alfred

Notting Hill
Duke of Wellington
Elgin

Kensington 
Britannia 
Curtains Up
Duke of Clarence

Fulham 
Cock Tavern
Duke on the Green
Waterside 

Wandsworth
Alma H
Crane T
Brewers Inn H
County Arms 
East Hill
Gardeners’ T
King’s Arms
Grapes T
Old Sergeant T
Pig & Whistle T
Queen Adelaide
Ship 
Spread Eagle T
Waterfront

Earlsfield
Halfway House
Leather Bottle

Sutton
Lord Nelson T
Robin Hood T

Paddington
Porchester
Lockhouse

Bayswater
Mitre

Chelsea 
Builder’s Arms
Chelsea Ram
Cooper’s Arms
Hollywood Arms
King’s Arms
Phoenix
Surprise

Battersea
Duke of Cambridge
Nine Elms Tavern
Northcote
Plough 
Prince Albert

Clapham
Clapham North T
Windmill H

Balham
Devonshire
Grove
Nightingale

Tooting
Castle
Trafalgar Arms

Carshalton
Greyhound H

Southern England

Appledore
Seagate Hotel H
Boathouse

Exeter
City Gate H
Double Locks

Exmouth
Grove

Sidmouth
Swan T

86

Burnham-on-Sea 
Dunstan House Inn H

Congresbury 
Old Inn T

Wrington
Plough Inn T

Somerton 
Unicorn T

Littleton-on-Severn
White Hart

Sherston 
Rattlebone T

Bristol
Bristol Ram T
Highbury Vaults
Horts
Rope Walk T
Riverstation

Hanham
Chequers Inn

Keynsham
Lock Keeper

Castle Cary 
Horse Pond T

 
 
Potters Bar
Old Manor

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Cambridge
Station Tavern

Barnet
Lord Nelson T

Hampstead
Flask
Roebuck

Primrose Hill 
Queens

Winchmore Hill
Kings Head

Tufnell Park
Lord Palmerston

Kentish Town
Bull & Gate
Lion & Unicorn

Marylebone
Lord Wargrave T

Camden
Spread Eagle

Westminster 
Buckingham Arms
Clarence
Morpeth Arms
Old Shades
Phoenix 
Royal Oak T

Pimlico 
Fox & Hounds T
Rising Sun T

Euston
Square Tavern T

Fitzrovia
Adam & Eve
One Tun

Mayfair
Guinea
Windmill

Chelmsford 
O’Connor’s T
Riverside Inn T

Stratford
Cow (Westfield) 

Islington 
Alphabet
Canonbury
Castle
Duchess of Kent
John Salt
King’s Head
Marquess Tavern T
Narrowboat

King’s Cross &  
St Pancras Station
Betjeman Arms
Fellow

Bloomsbury
Calthorpe Arms T
Lamb

Covent Garden
Marquess of Anglesey

Charing Cross
Theodore Bullfrog

Hackney
Naturalist 
People’s Park Tavern T

Clapton
Princess of Wales

Shoreditch
Owl & Pussycat

City of London
Albion
Boisdales T
Candlemaker 
Dirty Dick’s
Finch’s
Grocer
Fox & Anchor H
Lamb Tavern
Oyster Shed
Paternoster
Smiths
Three Lords T
White Horse

Bethnal Green
Royal Oak T

Bow 
Coborn 
Crown

Aldgate
Leman Street Tavern

Vauxhall
Fentiman Arms
Riverside

Stockwell
Surprise T

Brixton 
Trinity Arms
Hope & Anchor

Streatham
Bull
Manor Arms

Wallington
Duke’s Head H

Kennington
White Bear

Camberwell
Grove House T

Southwark
Founder’s Arms
Mulberry Bush
Prince William Henry T

Borough Market
Bunch of Grapes
Wheatsheaf 

Bermondsey
Woolpack

Peckham Rye
Clock House

Dulwich
Cherry Tree
Wood House

Norwood
Hope T
Railway Bell T

Thornton Heath
Railway Telegraph T

Croydon
Dog & Bull T

Beddington
Plough

Rotherhithe
Ship T

Greenwich
Coach & Horses
Cutty Sark
Old Brewery
Richard the First

Catford
Black Cat T

Bromley 
Two Doves T

Dartford
Malt Shovel T

Woolwich
Dial Arch
Guardhouse

Lee
Crown

Hither Green
Station Hotel H

Chislehurst 
Bickley
Bull’s Head Hotel H

Key

Young’s managed house unless marked

Tenanted 
Hotel 

T
H

Sherfield-on-Loddon
White Hart

Fetcham
Bell

Leatherhead
Penny Black

Effingham 
Plough T

Betchworth
Dolphin

Hindon
Lamb Inn H

Shaftesbury 
Mitre

Cobham
Bear

Guildford
Weyside
Worplesdon Place H

Newbury
Carnarvon Arms H

Witley
White Hart T

Emsworth
Sussex Brewery T

Dorking 
Falkland Arms T
Old House T

Stonebridge
Royal Oak T

Poole
Plantation H

Southampton
Heartbreakers T

Chichester
Crown & Anchor

Bognor Regis
Waverley

Redhill
Home Cottage

Farnborough 
Rose & Crown T

Blindley Heath
Red Barn

Lingfield 
Greyhound T

East Grinstead
Ship T

Plumpton Green
Fountain Inn T

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 87

Senior personnel, committees, advisers and others

Strategic report
Directors’ report
Financial statements
Shareholder information

Directors

Stephen Goodyear
Non-executive Chairman

Patrick Dardis
Chief Executive

Torquil Sligo-Young
Information Resources

Tracy Dodd
People

Roger Lambert
Non-executive and Senior Independent

Trish Corzine
Non-executive

Nick Miller
Non-executive

Ian McHoul
Non-executive

Company Secretary

Anthony Schroeder

Audit committee

Roger Lambert (Chairman)
Stephen Goodyear
Trish Corzine
Nick Miller
Ian McHoul

Remuneration committee

Nick Miller (Chairman)
Roger Lambert 
Trish Corzine

Banks

Royal Bank of Scotland Group plc
Corporate Banking London
250 Bishopsgate
London EC2M 4RB

Barclays Bank plc
1 Churchill Place
London E14 5HP

HSBC Bank plc
8 Canada Square
London E14 5HQ

Shareholder information

Registrar

The company’s registrar is Computershare 
Investor Services PLC. They can be 
contacted at The Pavilions, Bridgwater 
Road, Bristol BS99 6ZZ. Their telephone 
no. is 0370 707 1420.

Queries

If a shareholder has any questions about 
their shareholding or if they require other 
guidance (e.g. to notify a change of address 
or to give instructions for dividends to be 
paid directly into a bank account), please 
contact Computershare (see above). All 
requests to amend account details must be 
made in writing.

Shareholding management and 
receiving certain documents and 
information via email

Shareholders can manage their 
shareholding online at www.investorcentre.
co.uk. If they would like to receive certain 
documents and information from the 
company via email, they should read the 
company’s November 2018 letter to 
shareholders and then set up or update their 
profile online at www.investorcentre.co.uk. 
Shareholders may change their email 

88

address at any time and can also, via the 
online portal, revert to receiving hard copy 
documents and information. The letter can 
be found at https://www.youngs.co.uk/
youngs/uploads 
sites/2/2018/11/20181123 
-request-letter-for-electronic-
communications-tfw-version.pdf

Shareholder offers

Details of shareholder discounts and offers 
are mailed to shareholders from time to 
time. Any shareholder who does not wish 
to receive details of such offers should 
write to the Company Secretary at the 
registered office.

Registered office and  
company number

Riverside House
26 Osiers Road
Wandsworth
London SW18 1NH 
Registered number: 32762

Further information  
Please visit:  
www.youngs.co.uk

Auditor
Ernst & Young LLP
1 More London Place
London SE1 2AF

Nominated adviser

J.P. Morgan Securities plc
25 Bank Street
Canary Wharf
London E14 5JP

Stockbrokers

J.P. Morgan Securities plc
25 Bank Street
Canary Wharf
London E14 5JP

Panmure Gordon (UK) Ltd
One New Change
London EC4M 9AF

Solicitors

Slaughter and May
One Bunhill Row 
London EC1Y 8YY

Gowling WLG (UK) LLP
Two Snowhill
Birmingham
B4 6WR

Proposed financial diary 2019

6 June 2019
Ex-dividend date for final dividend

7 June 2019
Record date for final dividend

9 July 2019
Annual general meeting

11 July 2019
Payment of final dividend

14 November 2019
Interim results announcement

21 November 2019
Ex-dividend date for interim dividend

22 November 2019
Record date for interim dividend

6 December 2019
Payment of interim dividend

YO U N G & C O.’S B R EW E RY, P. L .C . AN N UAL R E PORT 2019 89

Adam and Eve Albert Albion Alexander Pope Alexandra Alma Alphabet Angel and Greyhound Bear Bear Inn Beaufort Bell Bell 
Adam and Eve Albert Albion Alexander Pope Alexandra Alma Alphabet Angel and Greyhound Bear Bear Inn Beaufort Bell Bell 
Hotel Betjeman Arms Bickley Bishop Blue Boar Boathouse Brewers Inn Bridge Hotel Britannia Brook Green Hotel Buckingham 
Hotel Betjeman Arms Bickley Bishop Blue Boar Boathouse Brewers Inn Bridge Hotel Britannia Brook Green Hotel Buckingham 
Arms Builders Arms Bull Bull and Gate Bulls Head Bunch of Grapes Candlemaker Canonbury Carnarvon Arms Castle Chelsea 
Arms Builders Arms Bull Bull and Gate Bulls Head Bunch of Grapes Candlemaker Canonbury Carnarvon Arms Castle Chelsea 
Ram Chequers Cherry Tree City Gate Clarence Clockhouse Coach and Horses Coat and Badge Coborn Cock Tavern Coopers 
Ram Chequers Cherry Tree City Gate Clarence Clockhouse Coach and Horses Coat and Badge Coborn Cock Tavern Coopers 
Arms County Arms Cow Crooked Billet Crown Crown and Anchor Crown Hotel Curtains Up Cutty Sark Defectors Weld Depot 
Arms County Arms Cow Crooked Billet Crown Crown and Anchor Crown Hotel Curtains Up Cutty Sark Defectors Weld Depot 
Devonshire Dial Arch Dirty Dicks Dog and Fox Dolphin Double Locks Duchess of Kent Duke of Cambridge Duke of Clarence Duke 
Devonshire Dial Arch Dirty Dicks Dog and Fox Dolphin Double Locks Duchess of Kent Duke of Cambridge Duke of Clarence Duke 
of Wellington Duke on the Green  Duke’s Head Dunstan House Inn Eagle Elgin Fellow Fentiman Arms Finch’s Fire Stables Flask 
of Wellington Duke on the Green  Duke’s Head Dunstan House Inn Eagle Elgin Fellow Fentiman Arms Finch’s Fire Stables Flask 
Foley Founder’s Arms Fox and Anchor Grange Green Man Greyhound Grocer Grove Guard House Guinea Half Moon Halfway 
Foley Founder’s Arms Fox and Anchor Grange Green Man Greyhound Grocer Grove Guard House Guinea Half Moon Halfway 
House Hammersmith Ram Hand and Spear Hand in Hand Hare and Hounds Highbury Vaults Hollywood Arms Home Cottage 
House Hammersmith Ram Hand and Spear Hand in Hand Hare and Hounds Highbury Vaults Hollywood Arms Home Cottage 
Hope and Anchor Horts John Salt Kings Arms Kings Head King’s Head Lamb Lamb Tavern Lass O’Richmond Hill Leather Bottle 
Hope and Anchor Horts John Salt Kings Arms Kings Head King’s Head Lamb Lamb Tavern Lass O’Richmond Hill Leather Bottle 
Leman  Street  Tavern  Lion  and  Unicorn  Lock  Keeper  Lockhouse  Lord  Palmerston  Manor  Arms  Marlborough  Marquess  of 
Leman  Street  Tavern  Lion  and  Unicorn  Lock  Keeper  Lockhouse  Lord  Palmerston  Manor  Arms  Marlborough  Marquess  of 
Anglesey  Mitre  Morpeth  Arms  Mulberry  Bush  Narrowboat  Naturalist  New  Inn  Nightingale  Nine  Elms  Tavern  Northcote  Old 
Anglesey  Mitre  Morpeth  Arms  Mulberry  Bush  Narrowboat  Naturalist  New  Inn  Nightingale  Nine  Elms  Tavern  Northcote  Old 
Brewery Old Manor Old Shades Old Ship One Tun Orange Tree Owl and Pussycat Oyster Shed Park Hotel Paternoster Penny 
Brewery Old Manor Old Shades Old Ship One Tun Orange Tree Owl and Pussycat Oyster Shed Park Hotel Paternoster Penny 
Black Phoenix Plantation Plough Porchester  Prince Albert Prince Alfred Princess of Wales Queen Adelaide Queen’s Red Barn Red 
Black Phoenix Plantation Plough Porchester  Prince Albert Prince Alfred Princess of Wales Queen Adelaide Queen’s Red Barn Red 
Lion  Richard  the  First  Riverside  Riverstation  Roebuck  Rose  and  Crown  Seagate  Hotel  Shaftesbury  Ship  Smiths  of  Smithfield 
Lion  Richard  the  First  Riverside  Riverstation  Roebuck  Rose  and  Crown  Seagate  Hotel  Shaftesbury  Ship  Smiths  of  Smithfield 
Spotted Horse Spread Eagle Spring Grove Station Hotel Station Tavern Surprise Swan Theodore BullfrogTrafalgar Arms Trinity 
Spotted Horse Spread Eagle Spring Grove Station Hotel Station Tavern Surprise Swan Theodore BullfrogTrafalgar Arms Trinity 
Arms Victoria Village Inn Waterfront Waterside Waverley Weyside Wheatsheaf White Bear White Cross White Hart White Horse 
Arms Victoria Village Inn Waterfront Waterside Waverley Weyside Wheatsheaf White Bear White Cross White Hart White Horse 
Windmill  Wood  House  Woolpack  Worplesdon  Place  Abercorn  Arms  Angel  Bells  Black  Cat  Black  Lion  Boisdales  Bristol  Ram 
Windmill  Wood  House  Woolpack  Worplesdon  Place  Abercorn  Arms  Angel  Bells  Black  Cat  Black  Lion  Boisdales  Bristol  Ram 
Calthorpe Arms Castle Clapham North Crane Dog & Bull Falkland Arms Fountain Inn Fox and Hounds Gardeners Grand Junction 
Calthorpe Arms Castle Clapham North Crane Dog & Bull Falkland Arms Fountain Inn Fox and Hounds Gardeners Grand Junction 
Arms  Grapes  Grey  Horse  Greyhound  Grove  House  Heartbreakers  Hope  Horse  Pond  Inn  Jolly  Gardeners  Lord  Nelson  Lord 
Arms  Grapes  Grey  Horse  Greyhound  Grove  House  Heartbreakers  Hope  Horse  Pond  Inn  Jolly  Gardeners  Lord  Nelson  Lord 
Wargrave  Malt  Shovel  Marquess  Tavern  New  Inn  O’Connors  Old  House  Old  Inn  Old  Sergeant  People’s  Park  Tavern  Pig  and 
Wargrave  Malt  Shovel  Marquess  Tavern  New  Inn  O’Connors  Old  House  Old  Inn  Old  Sergeant  People’s  Park  Tavern  Pig  and 
Whistle  Plough  Inn  Prince  William  Henry  Queens  Arms  Railway  Bell  Railway  Telegraph  Rattlebone  Inn  Red  Cow  Rising  Sun 
Whistle  Plough  Inn  Prince  William  Henry  Queens  Arms  Railway  Bell  Railway  Telegraph  Rattlebone  Inn  Red  Cow  Rising  Sun 
Riverside Inn Robin Hood Rope Walk Rose & Crown Royal George Royal Oak Ship Ship Inn Spread Eagle Square Tavern Surprise 
Riverside Inn Robin Hood Rope Walk Rose & Crown Royal George Royal Oak Ship Ship Inn Spread Eagle Square Tavern Surprise 
Sussex Brewery Swan Inn Thatched House Three Lords Two Doves Unicorn Hotel Waggon & Horses Watermans Arms White Hart
Sussex Brewery Swan Inn Thatched House Three Lords Two Doves Unicorn Hotel Waggon & Horses Watermans Arms White Hart

Young & Co.’s Brewery, P.L.C.
Riverside House, 26 Osiers Road, Wandsworth, London SW18 1NH
Telephone: 020 8875 7000   Fax: 020 8875 7100
www.youngs.co.uk

Registered in England  number 32762