21380078MEM399JPI956 2024-03-31 21380078MEM399JPI956 2023-03-31 21380078MEM399JPI956 2023-04-01 2024-03-31 21380078MEM399JPI956 2022-04-01 2023-03-31 21380078MEM399JPI956 2022-03-31 21380078MEM399JPI956 2022-04-01 2023-03-31 ifrs-full:IssuedCapitalMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2022-04-01 2023-03-31 ifrs-full:SharePremiumMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2022-04-01 2023-03-31 ifrs-full:ReserveOfExchangeDifferencesOnTranslationMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2022-04-01 2023-03-31 ifrs-full:RetainedEarningsMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2022-04-01 2023-03-31 ifrs-full:EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParentMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2022-04-01 2023-03-31 ifrs-full:NoncontrollingInterestsMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2023-04-01 2024-03-31 ifrs-full:IssuedCapitalMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2023-04-01 2024-03-31 ifrs-full:SharePremiumMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2023-04-01 2024-03-31 ifrs-full:ReserveOfExchangeDifferencesOnTranslationMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2023-04-01 2024-03-31 ifrs-full:RetainedEarningsMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2023-04-01 2024-03-31 ifrs-full:NoncontrollingInterestsMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2023-04-01 2024-03-31 ifrs-full:EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParentMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2022-03-31 ifrs-full:IssuedCapitalMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2022-03-31 ifrs-full:SharePremiumMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2022-03-31 ifrs-full:ReserveOfExchangeDifferencesOnTranslationMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2022-03-31 ifrs-full:RetainedEarningsMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2022-03-31 ifrs-full:EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParentMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2022-03-31 ifrs-full:NoncontrollingInterestsMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2023-03-31 ifrs-full:RetainedEarningsMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2023-03-31 ifrs-full:EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParentMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2023-03-31 ifrs-full:NoncontrollingInterestsMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2023-03-31 ifrs-full:IssuedCapitalMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2023-03-31 ifrs-full:SharePremiumMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2023-03-31 ifrs-full:ReserveOfExchangeDifferencesOnTranslationMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2024-03-31 ifrs-full:IssuedCapitalMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2024-03-31 ifrs-full:SharePremiumMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2024-03-31 ifrs-full:ReserveOfExchangeDifferencesOnTranslationMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2024-03-31 ifrs-full:RetainedEarningsMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2024-03-31 ifrs-full:EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParentMember 21380078MEM399JPI956 2024-03-31 ifrs-full:NoncontrollingInterestsMember iso4217:GBP iso4217:GBP xbrli:shares
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Our performance
1
“One Carclo”
2
At a glance
3
Chair’s statement
4
Chief Executive Officer’s review
5
Our strategy
9
Our markets
12
Business model
13
Partnerships in progress: Carclo’s impact
14
Regional business review
16
Our stakeholders
17
Key Performance Indicators
20
Responsible operations
22
Task Force on Climate-related
Financial Disclosures (“TCFD”)
28
Finance review
33
Principal risks and uncertainties
37
Viability statement
43
Corporate governance
Chair’s introduction
44
Statement of corporate governance
45
Our Board
46
Our Directors
47
Board activities
49
Audit & Risk Committee report
51
Nomination Committee report
54
Directors’ remuneration report
57
Directors’ report
77
Financial statements
Statement of Directors’ responsibilities
79
Independent auditor’s report
80
Consolidated income statement
88
Consolidated statement of
comprehensive income
89
Consolidated statement of
financial position
90
Consolidated statement of
changes in equity
91
Consolidated statement of cash flows
92
Notes to the consolidated
financial statements
93
Company balance sheet
149
Company statement of changes in equity
151
Notes to the Company financial statements 152
Additional information
Information for shareholders
163
Five year summary
165
Glossary
167
Company and shareholder information
168
www.carclo-plc.com
Our performance
Financial performance
We have prioritised the control of capital
investment, working capital management and
tight control over costs in order to increase cash
generation and to increase return on capital
Revenue from continuing operations decreased
by 7.5% (4.5% at constant currency) to £132.7m
(FY23: £143.4m). Underlying operating profit from
continuing operations £6.6m (FY23: £5.9m).
Cash generated from operations
was £15.6m
(FY23: £7.8m).
Statutory operating profit from continuing
operations was £1.8m
(FY23: £1.2m).
Net exceptional costs in the year
of £4.9m
(FY23: £4.7m). Net exceptional costs in the year
were largely driven by rationalisation incurred in
Carclo Technical Plastics and totalled £4.9m, of
which the cash cost was £0.6m (FY23: £2.2m).
Net debt of £29.5m
(FY23: £34.4m). Net debt has reduced by £4.9m
from prior year, reflecting strong working capital
management and the increase in operating
performance, placing Carclo on a sound footing for
the future. On 5 July 2024, the Group successfully
extended the facilities with the Company’s lender
for the multi-currency term and revolving facilities
agreement to 31 December 2025.
1.
Underlying earnings per share is defined as earnings per share adjusted to exclude all exceptional items. A reconciliation between the Group’s loss to underlying profit used in the
numerator to calculate underlying earnings per share can be found in note 11.
2. Underlying operating profit is defined as operating profit before exceptional items. A reconciliation to statutory figures is given on pages 163 and 164.
3. Underlying earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortisation (“uEBITDA”) is defined as EBITDA before exceptional items. A reconciliation to statutory figures is given
on pages 163 and 164.
Strategic highlights
Fortifying our financial position
for long‑term success
Delivered reduction of our net debt to uEBITDA
ratio through streamlining our asset base for better
returns, optimised our working capital position and
focused capital expenditures.
Factory specialisation and standardisation
Completed the reconfiguration of our APAC and
EMEA facilities for specific product lines and
standardising production processes, which has
led to substantial gains in efficiency and product
quality, supported by the integration of advanced
manufacturing technologies and targeted
workforce training. The reconfiguration in the US
in ongoing.
Organic growth through strategic partnerships
Expanded and deepened our strategic alliances
to deliver process optimisation, new back-end
automation and enhanced material utilisation.
Embracing sustainability for a greener future
The “Zelda” project delivered strong results, which
reduced external waste through material utilisation
improvements. Our energy focus led to a reduction
in tonnes of CO
2
e per £1m of revenue. 98% of
electricity used in the United Kingdom now comes
from renewable resources.
Empowering unity, driving breakthroughs
Through “One Carclo” we launched employee
engagement initiatives, promoting diversity
and inclusion, and encouraged cross-functional
teamwork between all sites, all of which drives our
performance.
Sustainability highlights
Leading the way in sustainability
Carclo is advancing “Project Zelda”, our
ground-breaking initiative to reduce waste and
enhance energy efficiency. Initiating our shift
to renewable energy in the UK exemplifies our
commitment to sustainability.
Strengthening supply chain sustainability
In partnership with EcoVadis, we’ve elevated our
sustainability practices throughout our supply chain,
placing us in the top 35% of companies globally –
a significant rise from last year’s top 50%.
Engaging communities, creating lasting
social value
We actively promote and encourage our employees
to engage in community support through initiatives
like volunteering for charity events, such as the
Royal Marsden Hospital walk, and partnering with
educational institutions for skills development
and training. Additionally, we prioritise safety
and sustainability, celebrating milestones like
accident-free days across our sites and investing
in energy-efficient technologies and green
community projects.
Revenue from continuing operations (£m)
1
£132.7m
FY23: £143.4m
Underlying earnings per share
‑ basic – from continuing operations (p)
1.1p
FY23: 0.4p
Statutory operating profit (£m)
£1.8m
FY23: £1.2m
Underlying operating profit
2
(£m)
£6.6m
FY23: £5.9m
Underlying EBITDA
3
(£m)
£14.6m
FY23: £14.0m
Cash generated from operations (£m)
£15.6m
FY23: £7.8m
Net debt (£m)
£29.5m
31 March 2023: £34.4m
1
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Our mission and ambition
Our mission is to be the preferred and trusted partner for precision components worldwide, delivering
class-leading customer satisfaction through our global presence and technical excellence centres,
offering innovative solutions tailored to our customers’ needs.
We focus our Design & Engineering and Manufacturing Solutions on four key markets:
“One Carclo”
We seek a better way
Continuously innovating to enhance safety and performance, we embrace
entrepreneurial spirit to expand boundaries and improve tomorrow.
We operate as “One Carclo”
We champion unity, pooling our collective strengths with partners to achieve
greater success and drive meaningful improvements.
We are always open and honest
Upholding the highest ethical standards, we ensure all our dealings are transparent,
respectful and inclusive.
We drive long-term sustainable growth
Committed to ethical practices and reducing our environmental impact,
we focus on sustainability for positive, lasting social impact.
We always act responsibly
By managing our resources prudently, we ensure sustainable growth
and long-term value for all stakeholders.
Our core values
We are dedicated to providing comprehensive high-precision critical solutions, serving as a one-stop shop
from initial development through production and assembly, and logistics. Our focus remains on meeting
customer needs and fostering growth through expanded offerings and prioritised development with
existing clients.
Life Science
Precision Technology
Aerospace
Optics
2
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
“One Carclo” embodies our unified quest for excellence, blending our mission, ambition and values. Through innovation, collaboration and sustainability,
we deliver premier solutions for global industries, ensuring value creation for all our stakeholders.
Performance by division
Carclo Technical Plastics
At a glance
Design &
Engineering
£21.6m
Revenue +10.8% at constant currency
Aerospace
£7.6m
Revenue +15.2% at constant currency
Manufacturing
Solutions
£103.5m
Revenue -8.3% at constant currency
Aerospace
1.
There were 13 sites operational in FY24. This included the Derry site, which closed on 31 March 2024, and the closure of
the Tucson site, which was announced on 14 February 2024.
1,059
employees
13 sites
1
Carclo facilities
Markets we serve
“Carclo’s future growth and potential
opportunity is bright with a focused
team executing the revenue operations
strategy to boost organic growth with
our faithful existing client base, whilst
leveraging our core competencies in
pursuing new market opportunities,
in both the precision tech and life
science sectors. We strive to continue
to leverage powerful partnerships in
collaborating with our customers and
suppliers to deliver maximum value to
all key stakeholders.”
Brandon Swinteck,
Chief Revenue Officer
3
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo’s global reach encompasses all major markets, covering the North American, EMEA and APAC regions.
As a preferred and trusted partner to serve customer needs, we prioritise employee safety, growth and training to fuel our ongoing success.
Dive into Carclo’s core divisions: Carclo Technical Plastics (“CTP”) and
Aerospace. Both divisions focus on precision, quality and innovation.
We offer expertise in advanced tooling, automation, design engineering,
specialised manufacturing and the latest aerospace technologies,
ensuring high-quality worldwide.
Dear shareholder
The Group faced significant external challenges
during the year to 31 March 2024, including
continued high raw material costs, rising labour
costs and a temporary dip in demand for some
of our medical diagnostics products. I am very
encouraged by the way that our team has
responded to these challenges, implementing our
strategy of building a strong foundation based on
operational excellence, which then provides a stable
base from which we are able to grow. It is positive
to see that the actions our team have taken are
bearing fruit in terms of our financial performance,
with a strong finish to the year delivering a
substantially stronger second half.
Whilst the process of building our strong
foundations is not yet complete, we are now in a
position where we can turn our efforts towards
delivering growth, both top and bottom line, whilst
continuing to safeguard our balance sheet and
deliver good cash conversion. Our strategy for
growth is first to develop our existing customer
base, providing them with complete solutions
including design, manufacture, assembly and
logistics support. We will build on this by expanding
into adjacent market sectors and ultimately we aim
to develop proprietary offerings where this can
be done alongside our bespoke offerings for our
existing customer base. You can read more about
our strategy on pages 9 to 11.
Board changes
We have made a number of changes to the Board
both during the year and after the year end. Key
amongst these changes has been the appointment
of Eric Hutchinson as Chief Financial Officer
(“CFO”) in August 2023, following the departure of
David Bedford. Eric was previously a Non-Executive
Director on the Carclo plc Board and has been able
to combine his existing knowledge of the Group
and extensive previous industry experience to
make an immediate positive impact. The Board
has also been strengthened post year end with the
appointment of Natalia Kozmina as a Non-Executive
Director in April 2024. Natalia brings to the
Board both broad business and human resources
experience in industries closely aligned to those of
Carclo’s customers. These changes are discussed in
more detail in the corporate governance report on
pages 44 and 48.
I would like to thank all of the Board members for
their continued support and counsel, both over the
last year and as we look to the future.
Board evaluation
We once again carried out an externally led
evaluation of the performance of the Board during
the year. More details of this review can be found in
the corporate governance report on page 49.
Our people
Our people have worked incredibly hard over
the past year to deal with the challenges in front
of them, delivering high-quality solutions to our
customers whilst driving the changes needed within
our business to build our foundation for future
success. I am proud to be able to lead this talented
group of people and, on behalf of the Board, I would
like to thank all of our employees for their continued
hard work and commitment.
Joe Oatley
Chair
26 July 2024
Chair’s statement
“Carclo has continued to face a number of external
challenges during the year and I am delighted with the
way in which the team has responded to those challenges.
It is pleasing to see the actions the team has implemented
starting to bear fruit with a stronger second half to the year.”
Joe Oatley
Chair
4
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Dear shareholder
As we wrap up the year, Carclo’s journey through
a dynamic and challenging business environment
has strengthened our foundation, pivotal in
reshaping Carclo as a premier strategic partner
for multicomponent solutions in the life sciences,
precision technology, optics and aerospace
markets. Carclo enhances functionality and
performance with our comprehensive offerings,
including design and engineering for moulds,
injection moulding, assembly, decorating, and
supply chain solutions. Our sophisticated medical
devices, essential industrial components and
aerospace parts meet stringent safety standards.
Carclo plc is a trusted, one-stop shop dedicated
to addressing the complex needs of our global
customers.
Despite significant changes in our organisation,
we successfully reduced lost time incidents.
By mandating the reporting of all incidents, near
misses and hazards, we gained more precise
insights into health and safety risks. Our relentless
drive for health and safety has led to a positive
trend in lost time incidents per 100,000 hours
worked. Our second Carclo Safety Week was highly
successful, driving motivation, participation and
positively impacting our business.
Carclo faced a number of external challenges
during the year, including continued high inflation
and interest rates, supply chain disruptions and
fluctuating raw material costs. We overcame these
obstacles through strong teamwork as One Carclo,
leveraging our collective expertise and resilience to
adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing environment.
During the year we continued the implementation
of our EMEA restructuring plan, announced
the closures of the Derry and Tucson sites and
reallocated the assets initially installed for the
manufacturing contract that did not materialise.
Our strategic focus, rigorous cost management,
optimised operational efficiencies and strong
supplier relationships have allowed us to navigate
these challenges effectively. Our investment in
advanced manufacturing strategy and technologies
has bolstered our production capabilities, ensuring
we remain agile and competitive in a volatile market.
These efforts have addressed immediate
challenges and laid a solid foundation for
sustainable growth and profitability. Our
commitment to continuous improvement and
innovation ensures that we can capitalise on
future opportunities and deliver long-term value
to our stakeholders.
For FY24, we set out four key priorities to improve
performance to achieve our strategic goals:
strengthening balance sheet, maximising asset
utilisation, improving margins over top-line growth,
and maximising the value from our global footprint.
Our exceptional team has risen to the occasion and
delivered progress on all fronts.
Strengthening balance sheet
We have fortified our financial foundation through
strict cash management, selective capital
investment, improved working capital positions
and enhanced business performance. These
measures have prepared us to weather economic
uncertainties and seize growth opportunities.
As a result, our net debt to uEBITDA leverage in
FY24 is now 2x (FY23: 2.5x) and working capital as a
percentage of revenue has been driven close to our
target range of 5.0% and 7.0%.
HY21
FY21
HY22
FY22
HY23
FY23
HY24
FY24
Net debt/uEBITDA
0.0
1.0
2.0
3.0
3.5
0.5
1.5
2.5
2.5
2.6
2.2
2.5
2.7
2.5
2.3
2.0
Chief Executive Officer’s review
“Amid a dynamic business environment, Carclo has
advanced all strategic priorities through team effort
as One Carclo, achieving a step change in return on
sales and return on capital employed towards our
medium-term goals.”
Frank Doorenbosch
Chief Executive Officer
HY21
FY21
HY22
FY22
HY23
FY23
HY24
FY24
Working capital as % of revenue
0
4
10
16
2
6
14
8
12
15.1
10.9
13.8
13.0
15.2
11.0
6.7
7.9
For balance sheet figures used in the graphs within the Chief Executive Officer’s review, the data is as at the balance sheet date, being
30 September for HY and 31 March for FY. For income statement figures, these are the trailing twelve-month figures up to the balance sheet date.
5
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Chief Executive Officer’s review
continued
Maximising asset utilisation
Our team has effectively realigned our EMEA
operations and made significant strides in the US.
The strategic closure of our short-run facility in
Derry and the consolidation of resources and talent
in Pennsylvania, which includes the forthcoming
closure of our Tucson site, have optimised our
operations, enhancing our asset utilisation as
evidenced by increased revenue per pound
invested in net fixed assets.
Revenue/tangible fixed assets
0
3.5
1.5
2.5
2.0
3.0
1.0
0.5
FY21
HY21
HY22
FY22
HY23
FY23
HY24
FY24
2.6
2.5
2.7
2.7
2.9
3.2
3.2
3.3
Improving margins over
top-line growth
In our CTP division we have implemented a range
of initiatives to enhance operational efficiencies
and optimise our product mix. We have increased
profitability by implementing factory specialisation,
with different facilities focusing on medium
and long-run products. Leveraging advanced
manufacturing technologies and fostering strong
customer relationships has improved our margin,
enhancing the value of projects.
Financial overview
In a year of unpredicted challenges and significant
victories, we made significant progress in improving
both our financial health and the robustness of
our operations, reflecting the effectiveness of
our strategic decisions. Our return on capital
employed (“ROCE”) increased from 9.7% in FY23
to 13.1% in FY24, as shown in the chart to the right.
We delivered an improved contribution margin over
last year of 36.0% on a revenue of £132.7m. Our
FY24 underlying EBIT reached £6.6m, marking
an increase of 21.8% from FY23 at a constant
exchange rate.
Cash generated from operations grew to £15.6m,
up 100.8% against the prior year. We maintained
streamlined operational cash management,
resulting in working capital as a percentage of
revenue at 7.9% in FY24 (FY23: 11.0%). Additionally,
we reduced our net debt/uEBITDA from 2.5x to
2.0x in FY24, highlighting the effectiveness of our
debt management strategy.
Maximising the value of
our global footprint
We have leveraged our international presence
to both deliver local service and support our
global customers as well as to drive efficiency and
innovation through a number of strategic actions in
FY24. We have implemented factory specialisation
for medium and long runs in the EMEA region,
which has streamlined our operations and improved
productivity. In the US we ceased our short-series
production, closing our Derry, NH facility.
We are optimising our operations by focusing
production and talent in Pennsylvania, leading to
the recently announced closure of our Tucson
facility. We are equipping our facility in Greensburg,
PA, to become an assembly-focused site, resulting
in more efficient specialised operations in the
different PA sites, mirroring our successful EMEA
model. The improved Greensburg facility is also
our Design & Engineering (“D&E”) centre in PA,
enhancing customer support and serving as a
training hub for our technical talent.
We have bolstered our global production
capabilities by reallocating assets strategically and
investing in advanced sustainable manufacturing
technologies. These actions ensure we remain
competitive, optimise operational efficiencies,
and deliver superior value to our customers.
Our global strategy enhances our market position
and reinforces our commitment to continuous
improvement and long-term profitability.
ROCE
(%)
0
15
10
5
FY21
HY21
HY22
FY22
HY23
FY23
HY24
FY24
9.9
8.8
11.7
9.6
8.5
9.7
8.6
13.1
uEBIT
(£m)
0
5
6
7
4
2
1
3
FY21
HY21
HY22
FY22
HY23
FY23
HY24
FY24
5.5
4.8
7.0
6.1
6.0
5.9
4.6
6.6
6
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Chief Executive Officer’s review
continued
CTP division:
Innovating for the future
Design & Engineering (“D&E”):
Precision engineering excellence
CTP profitability
Manufacturing Solutions (“MS”):
Elevating partnerships
through integrated solutions
Aerospace division:
Soaring to new heights
Our Design & Engineering business has thrived, driven by our dedication to
precision and excellence in every customer project.
Activity has focused on “Asset Revitalisation”, a distinctive programme to
support operational excellence by upgrading existing manufacturing
systems, which will continue in the coming year.
In the US we have invested in our first technology centre and developed
in-house training programmes for process operators, ensuring continuous
education for our team and enhancing our processing knowledge.
These investments have streamlined our operational efficiency and increased
client satisfaction, positioning us for sustainable growth and unmatched
value delivery.
Strategically, we are introducing D&E as a standalone service, strengthening
our market position and unlocking new growth opportunities. The expanded
application of our D&E capabilities allows us to serve a broader client base
and cement our position as precision engineering leaders.
Focusing on margins, we have achieved an increase in contribution margin
compared to prior year, resulting in a remarkable 28.6% increase in uEBIT for
our CTP business compared to FY23. Our margin improvement
demonstrates the effectiveness of our strategic initiatives and positions us
to seize future growth opportunities.
By continuing to drive operational excellence and strategic alignment,
we are well positioned to strengthen our manufacturing capabilities and
deliver unparalleled value to our customers.
Our Manufacturing Solutions business has made significant progress in
operational excellence and strategic realignment, despite an 8.3% revenue
decline on a constant currency basis.
Including the effect of currency movements, CTP MS experienced a
year-on-year revenue decrease from £116.7m to £103.5m, influenced by
several strategic and market factors. The reduction in revenue was largely
due to the cessation of PCR COVID-19 testing, which impacted our
customers‘ volumes. Additionally, we strategically curtailed short-run and
loss-making business segments, further refining our focus on sustainable and
profitable growth. Although these actions led to a decrease in revenue, they
position us for a stronger and more stable financial future.
The successful execution of our factory specialisation strategy in EMEA has
been pivotal to our improved performance. By focusing on advanced process
optimisation, we have significantly increased throughput, product quality and
competitiveness, achieving a structural increase in our overall equipment
effectiveness (“OEE”) and maintaining a strong asset utilisation of 3.3x. OEE is
our comprehensive metric that evaluates how effectively our manufacturing
operation is utilised by measuring three key components: availability,
performance and quality. These advancements in OEE have reduced
operational costs and delivery times, benefiting our clients through improved
service delivery and reliability.
Continuing our strategic realignment, we are centralising our North American
assets and talent in Pennsylvania which will further enhance our global
platform. This shift allows us to achieve more significant economies of scale
and foster a more agile production environment, enabling us to adapt swiftly
to market fluctuations and meet evolving customer demands.
Our Aerospace division has achieved record revenue of £7.6m (FY23:
£6.6m) and near-record profits, successfully navigating the post-COVID-19
aerospace recovery. Growth continues in our high-end engineering and
machining product lines, driven by our development in precision machining
techniques.
Our strong performance in Southeast Asia, where we outpaced the high
regional market growth, now accounts for nearly 10% of our aerospace
revenue, highlighting our quality-driven approach.
A key driver of our success is the robust growth in our machined precision
solutions. We are expanding our precision machining capabilities and
infrastructure in both our UK and French sites to support this success.
These investments solidify our position as a preferred partner in the
aerospace supply chain, enabling us to deliver large-scale, innovative
solutions. By collaborating closely with our customers, we develop
tailored solutions that provide a competitive edge and strengthen
long-term partnerships.
Moving forward, our Aerospace division is poised to leverage its strengths,
adapt swiftly to market changes, and deliver exceptional value to customers
and stakeholders. With record sales, an improving supply chain and targeted
investments, we are well positioned to maintain our growth momentum,
solidify our leadership in the aerospace niche and expand in the South
Asian market.
By continuing to prioritise quality, reliability and innovation, our Aerospace
division will capitalise on widening its offering in a growing market and drive
sustainable growth. We will further strengthen our industry relationships,
expand our capabilities and deliver cutting-edge solutions that meet the
evolving needs of our global aerospace customers.
Strategic achievements and operational highlights
Despite challenging market conditions, Carclo has demonstrated remarkable resilience and made notable progress across our business units over the past year. Our core divisions have delivered improved performance,
achieved significant milestones, and driven our success through their dedication, capability and innovative approaches.
7
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Chief Executive Officer’s review
continued
Sustainability commitment
Sustainability is a cornerstone of our strategic
vision. Over the past four years, we have improved
our CO
2
e efficiency year by year, reducing tonnes
of CO
2
e per £1m of revenue from 155.3 to 145.7,
which is particularly commendable given the recent
7.5% reduction in revenues. Our commitment
to sustainable practices includes Project Zelda,
which is already showing promising results in
improved process and material management – an
essential second step in our journey to operational
excellence. Additionally, we have enhanced our
EcoVadis score, moving from the top 49% of
companies to the top 35%, reflecting our dedication
to exceeding industry standards.
By investing in greener technologies and renewable
energy, and fostering a culture of sustainability, we
drive long-term environmental and social benefits.
Our commitment to sustainability strengthens our
market position and positively impacts the planet,
aligning with our goal of delivering superior value to
our customers and stakeholders.
Looking ahead: strategic focus
As we look ahead, I am excited and optimistic
about the opportunities that lie before us. The
team completed the initial steps of building the
foundation and specialising our factories in Asia
and EMEA, and the US team is making good
progress on their journey. The improvements
we can still make in material and processing
optimisation will be the next step on our long-term
journey to “Lights Out Manufacturing”.
Our new procurement organisation is driving a shift
towards strategic sourcing and stronger supplier
partnerships. By fostering these collaborative
relationships we anticipate enhanced business
performance in the short term and sustained
improvements in the medium term, including
increased efficiency, cost savings and a more
resilient supply chain.
In this rapidly evolving digital landscape, we must
heighten our vigilance in control and reporting.
To build a system that ensures strategic alignment,
we need to streamline and standardise our business
support processes, much like we have done in
our manufacturing operations. By implementing
best practices and driving operational efficiency,
we can enhance our ability to respond swiftly to
market changes and deliver consistent, high-quality
outcomes for our stakeholders.
We understand that the rigorous validation
processes surrounding our precision solutions
can lead to delays in scaling up new projects and
products. However, we are working on exciting
new initiatives to diversify our customer base,
expand into new markets and broaden our product
portfolio. While the path to full-scale manufacturing
takes time, we are committed to bringing innovative
solutions to our clients as efficiently as possible.
In the long term, we aim to develop and integrate
proprietary technologies and products to enhance
our market offering. While we are excited about
the potential of our focused innovation incubator
engine to drive this development, we do recognise
the importance of demonstrating immediate and
tangible growth. By prioritising our medium-term
growth initiatives, we aim to provide confidence to
our stakeholders that we can achieve sustainable
and profitable growth while carefully advancing our
long-term strategic goals. This balanced approach
reassures stakeholders that we are committed to
walking before we run, ensuring steady progress
and minimising risks associated with the incubator.
Our unwavering commitment to enhancing the
customer experience is central to this strategic
vision. We will deliver high-quality products and
services that exceed expectations. Equipped
with a great team, a clear strategic vision and a
robust financial position, we can navigate the
challenges ahead and emerge as a more vital,
resilient organisation. Our steadfast dedication
to our customers and employees will be crucial to
our success.
With this multifaceted approach, I am confident that
we will solidify our position as an industry leader in
the medium to long term and continue to create
value for all our stakeholders. I look forward to
embarking on this journey together and achieving
great things.
Outlook
In the short term we remain focused on building
the strong foundation for our business. We
expect that we will continue to deliver margin
expansion in FY25, as we see the benefits of our
US manufacturing rationalisation and improvement
programme. This margin expansion is anticipated to
continue into FY26 as we see the full-year benefits
of our operational optimisation process, continuing
our journey towards our strategic goals of 10%
return on sales and 25% return on capital employed.
We will focus on disciplined cash management
and anticipate that we will again deliver strong
operational cash conversion in FY25.
In the medium to long term, as we move into the
expansion phase of our strategic plan, we anticipate
delivering strong top-line growth driven by both
exposure to structural growth markets and growing
our share of wallet. As we grow, we will maintain our
capital and operational discipline to ensure this is
converted into strong earnings growth to deliver
long-term value creation for all of our stakeholders.
Closing remarks
In closing, I am deeply grateful for the unwavering
dedication and hard work of our Carclo team.
Their commitment has been instrumental in driving
our achievements.
To our valued shareholders and customers, your
continued trust and support are the fuel that
powers our relentless pursuit of excellence.
Together, we look forward to a future filled with
boundless opportunities and groundbreaking
innovations. Thank you once again for your
steadfast support. Your partnership inspires us to
reach new heights and create lasting impact.
Frank Doorenbosch
Chief Executive Officer
26 July 2024
8
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Our strategy
Foundation
Building a robust
operational base
Expansion
Unlocking multifaceted growth
Health & Safety,
Inclusiveness and
Sustainability
Market
momentum
Grow
share
of wallet
New
customers
Strategic
market
extension
Operational
excellence
Procurement
transformation
Control and
reporting evolution
Proprietary
Technology and product incubator
Our strategy
Carclo’s strategy is built on three core pillars:
Foundation, Expansion and Proprietary.
The Foundation of Carclo:
Build a safe, healthy, inclusive and sustainable
business.
Continuous drive for operational excellence,
including optimisation which enables effective
back-end automation, leading to our long-term
objective of self-sufficient production.
Build a global procurement organisation to
leverage our global position and build strong
supply partnerships.
Streamline and standardise reporting and tight
internal controls.
Expansion builds on a strong foundation and uses
the momentum in the markets in which we operate.
We aim to broaden our market presence, both
with our current customers and by expanding our
customer base and market horizons.
For long-term growth, we are focusing on
proprietary technologies and products. This
involves investing in research and development to
create proprietary technologies and products that
meet evolving customer needs and drive long-term
competitive advantage.
Together, these pillars provide a comprehensive
framework for Carclo's growth and success,
ensuring we maintain a strong foundation whilst
actively pursuing opportunities for expansion
and innovation.
Harness
and excel
innovation
“Through standardisation, continuous
improvement, value stream mapping,
employee empowerment and
customer focus, our strategic pillars
have paved the way for operational
success and secured our position as a
sustainable organisation.”
Gary Allan,
Chief Operating Officer
9
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Our strategy
continued
Precision at the heart of progress
At Carclo, we harness precision and innovation to create a
safer, more sustainable tomorrow. United under “One Carclo”,
we pledge to advance technology and nurture our global
community, ensuring every solution not only meets but
enriches the lives it touches.
Our strategic objectives
E
x
c
e
l
l
e
n
c
e
i
n
P
r
e
c
i
s
i
o
n
C
u
s
t
o
m
e
r
C
e
n
t
r
i
c
i
t
y
I
n
t
e
g
r
i
t
y
a
n
d
S
a
f
e
t
y
C
u
l
t
u
r
a
l
E
m
p
o
w
e
r
m
e
n
t
Comprehensive
customer
support
Excelling in
performance
& experience
Empowering
workforce
Ethical, safe,
collaborative,
improvement
Sustainable
practices
Innovation
solutions
Client
partnership
development
Leadership
development
Ethical, safe, collaborative,
improvement
An unwavering commitment to health and
safety, ethics, collaboration and continuous
improvement.
Sustainable practices
We will foster a culture of employee engagement
and development to support our focused capital
investment, tight management of working capital,
and drive improvements in efficiency, yield, quality
and safety.
Empowering our workforce
Attracting and retaining premier talent by
fostering an inclusive, diverse culture that
empowers and develops employees to drive
business growth.
Leadership development
We empower our leaders through tailored
development and by fostering innovation,
excellence, and inclusivity in order to drive
Carclo’s strategic growth.
Client partnership development
We will develop strategic partnerships with
customers and suppliers to capture and create
more value together, improving our global
footprint and delivering efficiently to our
customers for both Design & Engineering and
Manufacturing Solutions.
Comprehensive customer support
Supporting our customers globally from the
initiation of development through production
and assembly.
Excelling in performance
and experience
Delivering best-in-class operational performance,
financial results and customer experience.
Innovation solutions
We will harness the power of new technologies,
including automation and artificial intelligence (“AI”),
to increase operational efficiency, improve quality
and stay at the forefront of our industry, while
maximising the value of our global footprint.
10
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Our strategy
continued
Our strategic priorities
Strengthening
balance sheet
Strategic capital investments target
improved efficiency, yield, quality, and safety,
complemented by rigorous working capital
management.
Maximising
asset utilisation
Harmonising processes and equipment
across sites, while fostering organisation-wide
exchange of best practices.
Improving margins
over top-line growth
Implementing a Group-wide initiative to enhance
customer value while optimising costs and
operational efficiency.
Maximise the value
of our global footprint
Specialising factory operations to boost focus,
efficiency, quality, and performance, ensuring
streamlined delivery to our global customer
base.
Net debt/uEBITDA
2.0x
FY23: 2.5x
Working capital
as % of revenue
7.9%
FY23: 11.0%
Revenue/tangible
fixed assets
3.3x
FY23: 3.2x
Average machine
runtime in hours
12.68
FY23:
12.89
Contribution margin
(at constant currency)
36.0%
FY23: 32.0%
Revenue (at constant
currency)
£132.7m
FY23: £139.0m
Factory specialisation
(progress indicator)
21
22
23
24
21
22
23
24
21
22
23
24
21
22
23
24
23
24
21
22
23
24
Customer
satisfaction
90%
1
FY23: 93%
1
21
22
23
24
APAC
EMEA
USA
Absolute score
1.
vs best in class
11
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Reliability, Efficiency, Technology
Carclo stands at the forefront of high precision
engineering with components that redefine
reliability and efficiency. From ATMs to advanced
optical systems, our products are essential to
the seamless operation.
Market trend
Surge in home automation and digital
transactions.
Market drivers
Technological advancements and increasing
consumer expectation for efficiency and
security. Increase in digital payments, and a
reduction in the use of cash, means there is an
expectation that the demand for ATMs will fall
over the longer term.
Carclo’s response
Design and production of ultra-precise
and reliable components that enhance the
performance and durability of electronic
systems in financial and consumer electronics
industries. Focus on alternative end-user
markets and products, in place of ATMs.
Precision, Care, Innovation
At Carclo, we leverage precision engineering
and innovative technologies to support the life
sciences sector. Our advanced solutions for
diagnostics and drug delivery systems improve
patient care and allow medical innovations,
ensuring that reliability and accuracy are central
to advancing healthcare.
Market trend
There is an increasing demand for rapid and
accurate diagnostics solutions and convenient
drug delivery systems.
Market drivers
Growth in personalised medicine, the rise of
chronic diseases and increasing self-care.
Carclo’s response
We are expanding our range of precision
components to enhance the accuracy and
reliability of diagnostic devices and more
sustainable drug delivery solutions, facilitating
faster, more personalised treatment and focus
on sustainable solutions.
Our markets
Performance, Sustainability, Vision
Carclo illuminates the path forward in speciality
optics with pioneering LED light management
solutions. Our expertise enables enhanced
performance and sustainability, catering to the
growing demands of energy efficiency and
advanced optical applications across different
sectors.
Market trend
Growing focus on energy efficiency and
enhanced lighting solutions.
Market drivers
Environmental regulations and technological
innovations in architectural and hydroponic LED
technology.
Carclo’s response
Develop advanced light management systems
that significantly improve energy efficiency
and performance across various applications,
supporting sustainable development goals.
Safety, Precision, Exploration
Focusing sharply on aerospace, Carclo elevates
industry standards by delivering exceptionally
precise and durable components that are crucial
for the safety and performance of aircraft.
Our commitment to precision and innovation
propels the aerospace sector to new heights.
Market trend
The growing activity in the aviation sector is
boosting demand in our traditional markets, and
whilst future aircraft designs will gradually reduce
reliance on cables, there is a significant rise in
demand from the emerging South Asian market.
Market drivers
Increased expectations for quality and reliability,
coupled with a resurgence in commercial air
travel, are driving the market forward.
Carclo’s response
We are capitalising on the growth of precision
machined components by providing
cutting-edge, aerospace-grade parts that
meet the stringent safety and functionality
requirements of modern aerospace engineering.
We are also expanding our presence in the
South Asian market for cables, wires and
machined components to leverage this region’s
rapid growth.
Life Sciences
Precision Technology
Optics
Aerospace
12
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Business model
Aerospace division
Aerospace
Our facilities, boasting specialised certifications, are committed to manufacturing
precision solutions of consistently high quality for the aerospace industry. We
rigorously adhere to the most stringent safety standards, ensuring that every
product meets the exacting requirements of this critical field.
Operating model
Design & Engineering
As a project-centric organisation, we deliver unparalleled global support across
all phases of mould and automation design, from initial concept to final validation.
Our commitment extends beyond mere execution to encompass groundbreaking
innovations in both processes and products. Driven by a steadfast dedication
to service, we consistently surpass client expectations, embedding a culture of
excellence and innovation in everything we do.
Manufacturing Solutions
Our global manufacturing platform spans the US, EMEA and APAC regions, with
specialised factories that provide extensive technical support. We focus on precision
injection moulding, creating complex multi-component assemblies and full service
supply chain solutions for our customers. These strategic capabilities allow us to offer
customised, best-in-class products that cater to the diverse and specific needs of
our clients across different industries and geographies. By aligning our operations
with the unique requirements of each market, we ensure top-tier service and product
excellence worldwide.
CTP division
Competitive advantage
Value creation
Shareholders
We focus on
maximising returns
and securing
long-term growth
through strategic
investments.
Suppliers
Our partnerships are
built on a foundation of
mutual trust and shared
objectives, which are
key to maintaining a
reliable supply chain.
Debt providers
We uphold financial
stability and meet
our obligations
with responsibility,
maintaining the
confidence of our
financial partners.
Pension fund
Our approach
to pension fund
management is to
ensure long-term
security for our
beneficiaries.
Employees
We are committed to
creating a rewarding
and inclusive
work environment
that promotes
employee growth
and professional
development.
Local
communities
Our engagement with
local communities
is designed to have
a positive societal
impact, reflecting our
commitment to social
responsibility.
Customers
Delivering exceptional
quality and innovative
solutions for customer
success.
For more detailed
information on our
strategic approaches,
please refer to pages
17 to 19.
Customer satisfaction
Our commitment to surpassing customer
expectations has cemented their trust in our
ability to consistently deliver superior value.
Operational excellence
We are dedicated to producing consistently
high-precision components that meet rigorous
customer standards, ensuring operational
excellence at every step.
Responsive culture
Our agile decision-making processes,
supported by a streamlined management
structure, enable us to excel in dynamic markets.
Global footprint
We operate across three continents, merging
global standards with local expertise to serve
our prestigious international customer base.
13
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Embracing a global mindset and implementing local strategies, we serve our international customers with exceptional standards and innovation facilitated by
our global manufacturing platform.
[•]
Partnerships in progress: Carclo’s impact
Heritage and craftsmanship
Celebrating a century of excellence, Carclo marks
2024 as a milestone year, woven from a rich heritage
of craftsmanship. Established in 1924, our company
has been propelled by an unwavering dedication to
precision, fuelled by a deep passion for innovation
and a strong commitment to the people behind
our processes. This 100-year legacy positions
Carclo not just as a participant, but as a pioneer in
high-tech industries where tradition and reliability
are as prized as our cutting-edge solutions.
Our heritage forms the cornerstone of our
identity, built on decades of mastering complex
technologies and nurturing skilled artisans. Their
expertise is evident in the superior quality of our
products today. Carclo’s hallmark is this synthesis
of historical mastery and modern innovation,
inspiring trust and pride among our business
partners who see in us a steadfast ally, whose
provenance guarantees today’s excellence and
tomorrow’s potential.
In an era dominated by fleeting trends, Carclo
stands distinct, upholding the timeless values
of meticulous craftsmanship. Our commitment
ensures that every component we manufacture and
every solution we provide is imbued with a legacy of
quality that has been refined over a century.
As we commemorate this centennial, Carclo looks
forward with a spirit rejuvenated by our past, poised
to face future challenges with the same resilience
and integrity that have been our guiding principles.
We invite our stakeholders to continue this journey
with us, a partnership strengthened by a century of
achievements and driven by an unyielding pursuit
of excellence.
Innovation for a better world
At Carclo, innovation transcends technological
advancement – it propels humanity forward.
Celebrating a century of leadership in life sciences,
optics and aerospace, our work underscores our
commitment to societal progress, enhancing health,
and exploring new frontiers. This commitment
drives us to not only meet but exceed the
expectations of our partners, who share our
vision for a better world.
In the realm of life sciences, our technologies
revolutionise diagnostic processes and treatment
modalities, directly saving lives and significantly
improving patient outcomes. Through precision
engineering, Carclo develops medical devices that
are more effective, reliable and accessible, thus
advancing global health initiatives and enriching
quality of life worldwide.
In aerospace, our efforts extend the boundaries
of aviation and exploration. Our highly reliable and
precise components are crucial for the safety and
success of missions that broaden our understanding
of the universe, driving technological progress and
inspiring future explorers.
Carclo’s commitment also encompasses
sustainability. Initiatives like “Zelda”, which targets a
50% reduction in waste, and our investment in 100%
carbon-free energy solutions at our main EMEA
sites, underscore our dedication to environmental
stewardship.
Through these endeavours, Carclo cultivates a
deep sense of purpose and partnership with our
clients. United by the common goal of leveraging
innovation for tangible societal benefits, every
project and product we develop is a step towards a
future where technology not only enhances human
capabilities but also makes our world safer, healthier
and more accessible.
Investing in Carclo means investing in a future
shaped by pioneering innovation that not only
leads industries but also contributes significantly to
the welfare of our planet and its people. Together,
we are not just engineering solutions; we are
engineering a better tomorrow.
Precision as a promise
At Carclo, precision is more than just a standard
– it’s a promise we make to all our stakeholders.
Central to our operations, this commitment ensures
unwavering reliability and impeccable quality, driving
us to excel in sectors where there is no room for
error. Our rigorous attention to precision means that
every product not only meets but also sets industry
benchmarks, fostering deep trust and security
among our partners.
In fields where even the slightest deviation has
significant consequences, such as aerospace and
medical devices, the stakes are exceptionally high.
Recognising this, Carclo invests in cutting-edge
technologies and continuous professional
development for our skilled workforce. Such
commitments enable us to consistently achieve
and maintain the highest standards of precision
and reliability, safeguarding the trust our clients
place in us.
This assurance permeates every aspect of our
operations – from the initial design and production
to the final touches in decoration and assembly.
It’s a commitment that goes beyond the tangible
products we create and is manifest in every
relationship we maintain with our clients. By
ensuring our components perform flawlessly under
the most demanding conditions, we not only meet
but frequently exceed client expectations.
This relentless pursuit of precision resonates
strongly with our clients and investors, especially
in sectors where the cost of failure is intolerable.
It provides them with peace of mind, knowing
they have partnered with a company that not
only understands the high stakes but is also fully
equipped to meet them.
For stakeholders considering a partnership
with Carclo, our precision promise assures you
are investing in a future where excellence is
the standard, and every challenge is met with
unmatched quality and precision.
14
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Strategic report
[•]
Partnerships in progress: Carclo’s impact
continued
The power of partnership
At Carclo, we understand that our achievements
gain strength through the power of partnership.
Our collaborative approach with strategic
customers and suppliers goes beyond fulfilling
requirements; it creates synergy that transcends
traditional customer-vendor dynamics. This ethos
of collaboration is deeply embedded in our culture,
driving us to forge connections that are both
professionally rewarding and personally enriching,
and fostering a sense of community with each
interaction.
Our partnerships are founded on mutual trust
and shared ambitions. By working closely with
our diverse partners from sectors including life
sciences, aerospace and precision engineering,
we grasp their unique challenges and contribute
to their most ambitious goals. Such collaborations
often lead to breakthrough innovations that not only
meet but set new industry standards, illustrating
how combined efforts can achieve greater success
than individual endeavours.
For instance, our collaboration with a leading
aerospace company involved developing critical
precision components for a new aircraft design.
This partnership extended beyond supply;
Carclo engineers worked alongside client teams
through design, testing and implementation
phases, ensuring meticulous adherence to every
specification.
In the life sciences sector, our partnership with
specialist material scientists has initiated the
development of a product line designed to optimise
material utilisation and review new materials. This
partnership enhances our sustainability journey,
allowing Carclo to advance.
These stories exemplify the essence of our
partnerships at Carclo, where each project is a journey
of shared knowledge, mutual respect and collective
ambition. For stakeholders considering an alliance
with Carclo, our approach offers more than a business
relationship – it promises a powerful partnership to
achieve remarkable feats. Through these partnerships,
we continue to drive innovation, foster community and
achieve transformative results, demonstrating that
together, we are indeed stronger.
Global reach, local impact
Carclo’s extensive global presence is a testament
to our commitment to driving innovation worldwide
while significantly impacting the local communities
we serve. Although our network spans several
continents, we maintain a focused approach tailored
to meet local needs, enrich local economies and
enhance community wellbeing.
Our broad reach allows us to introduce advanced
technologies and best practices into local markets.
This strategy not only drives local innovation but
also ensures the benefits of our technological
advancements are accessible where they are most
needed. By adapting our solutions to fit specific
local contexts, we help communities overcome
unique challenges and achieve sustainable growth.
At each of our facilities worldwide, Carclo actively
engages with local suppliers and the workforce,
contributing to economic development and
job creation. Our investment in local talent
development through training programmes ensures
that the benefits of our global knowledge base are
ingrained in the regional workforce, enhancing their
skills and elevating employment quality.
Furthermore, our commitment to local communities
extends beyond economic impacts. We participate
in and initiate various community engagement
programmes aimed at improving quality of life and
supporting local initiatives. These efforts range
from environmental conservation to supporting
local education, reinforcing our role as responsible
corporate citizens.
Through these initiatives, Carclo acts as a catalyst
for local innovation and establishes strong bonds
with each community we engage. For our clients
and stakeholders, partnering with Carclo means
collaborating with a company that influences global
markets and is deeply committed to nurturing local
industries and communities. Our dual focus on
global reach and local impact instils a sense of pride
among our partners and stakeholders, reinforcing
their trust in Carclo as a company genuinely
committed to making a worldwide difference while
carefully addressing local needs.
15
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Strategic report
Regional business review
1. At constant currency.
CTP
Americas
Over the past year, Carclo has strategically
restructured our operations in the US to sharpen our
focus on medium to long-term business prospects
and enhance profitability. This included closing the
Derry, NH site due to its alignment with non-strategic,
short-run production and taking the decision to
consolidate our Tucson, AZ operations into our broader
manufacturing network to produce closer to our
customers.
In Pennsylvania, we’ve integrated four facilities into a
single manufacturing organisation, optimising fixed
costs and specialising each production cell with distinct
focus on product ranges. This reorganisation supports
the expansion programmes of our strategic partners
and included the construction of two new cells.
Additionally, we’ve established a new Design &
Engineering Centre to advance our talent development
and maintain our commitment to innovation.
Despite a year-over-year sales decline, primarily from
reduced PCR testing demand and curtailment, early
impacts of our restructuring efforts have positively
influenced our results in the second half of the year.
We remain confident in our strategic direction and its
capacity to foster sustained regional success.
Despite inflation and labour market challenges, our
proactive strategies effectively safeguarded margins,
setting the stage for future success.
Revenue
£66.2m
-6.6%
1
CTP
APAC
In the APAC region, Carclo has historically partnered
with global western world players to deliver their APAC
demand; however, the emerging strength of local
competitors has shifted market dynamics, with regional
players gaining significant market share. In response, we
have broadened our focus to engage more deeply with
this rising local demand in the life sciences and high
precision markets. While the validation of new products
takes time, our strategic realignment is already bearing
fruit, as evidenced by a major local contract win.
Additionally, to optimise efficiency and
cost-effectiveness, we are transitioning production
previously handled in the EMEA and Americas to
local facilities within the APAC region. This move has
enhanced our operational control, allowing us to better
meet the demands of the local market.
We initiated the production of life science products in
our Indian facility to cater to the growing local demand.
We remain committed to expanding our footprint in the
APAC region and seizing new growth opportunities in
the APAC region for the APAC region.
Revenue
£13.6m
-14.9%
1
CTP
EMEA
In the EMEA region, Carclo’s focused strategy
implementation has surpassed expectations, delivering
exceptional value and significantly simplifying
operational complexity. This strategic refinement has
enhanced our performance and solidified our status
as a reliable partner to key customers. Our proactive
approach in managing growth with existing partners
and initiating new projects portends a robust future.
Over the past year, we have successfully navigated the
challenges of an energy spike, working collaboratively
with all customers to mitigate impacts. Additionally,
our energy efficiency programmes have proven
exceedingly beneficial, contributing substantially to our
operational success and cost management.
Last year, we capitalised on factory specialisation
to serve our established customer base effectively.
Our UK site excels in managing high-volume, long-run
productions, while our East European facility in
the Czech Republic demonstrates agility in quick
changeovers and short series production for our
strategic partners. This specialisation significantly
boosted our competitive edge and strengthened our
partnerships by aligning our capabilities closely with
customer needs.
As we move forward, Carclo remains committed to
advancing our operational capabilities in the EMEA
region. We continue to refine our journey of factory
specialisation, aiming to deliver superior value, enhance
efficiency, and forge even stronger partnerships. The
optics business has delivered a successful turnaround
during the year, focusing on design and distribution
of high-end specialised light management and
automotive solutions.
Revenue
£45.3m
-0.5%
1
Aerospace
Global
Carclo’s aerospace division celebrated a
record-breaking year, achieving unprecedented sales
revenue and nearing record profits. Our growth has
been robust not only in traditional markets but also
through the expansion into the South Asian market with
our high-precision products. We continue to compete
based on the superior quality and reliability of our
offerings rather than on price, reinforcing our strategic
market position.
This year’s success builds on the strong recovery we
experienced after the lifting of COVID-19-related
travel restrictions. Our focus on precision cables and
safety systems has allowed us to maintain excellent
margin levels and generate significant cash flow. Our
unwavering commitment to quality has deepened
relationships with strategic customers, enabling us to
successfully navigate the challenges of the past while
setting the stage for future growth.
Looking ahead, we anticipate continued expansion and
success. The strategic positioning of our aerospace
business remains robust, with further growth
expected in the coming years through new strategic
partnerships. We remain dedicated to delivering
high-quality solutions that meet the evolving needs of
our customers, ensuring Carclo’s aerospace division
continues to soar to new heights.
Revenue
£7.6m
+15.2%
1
16
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Section 172
At Carclo plc, our core mission is to be the preferred
and trusted partner for our global customers,
delivering high-precision critical solutions and
supporting our customers throughout the
development and assembly processes.
This mission necessitates robust engagement with
all our stakeholders to ensure we effectively fulfil
our purpose and achieve our strategic objectives.
As Directors, we recognise and embrace our
responsibilities under Section 172 of the Companies
Act 2006, which guide us in promoting the success
of the Company.
This duty compels us to consider various factors,
including the interests of our stakeholders, when
making decisions.
We are committed to diligent oversight of
stakeholder engagement and to conducting our
roles in accordance with the principles of good
corporate governance.
Key decisions taken during the year
During the year we took decisions to close our Derry
and Tucson US facilities as part of the restructuring
of the US business. The restructuring aims to
enhance operational efficiency and customer
service to achieve operational excellence, financial
stability and sustainable growth, ultimately driving
value for both shareholders and customers.
Engaging with stakeholders formed a key part
of the closure processes, including providing
comprehensive transition assistance programmes
for affected employees and planning the seamless
transfer of operations with minimal disruption for
customers and suppliers.
Our stakeholders
Employee engagement
At Carclo, we understand that our employees are foundational
to our success. Their perspectives shape our direction and
our ongoing commitment to creating an outstanding work
environment.
Material issues
Ensuring effective communication of our core values.
Fostering an entrepreneurial spirit.
Attracting and retaining diverse talent.
Promoting a culture of ethics, openness, transparency,
respect and inclusivity.
Prioritising health and safety for all employees.
Current engagement
Quarterly town hall meetings to facilitate interaction and
information sharing across all levels of Carclo.
Direct interaction between the Board and employees through
site visits, enhancing mutual understanding and immediate
communication.
Initial rollout of wellbeing projects emphasising our
commitment to employee health and safety.
Reducing our incident frequency ratio over the last three
years from 2.70 to 2.28.
Planned improvements
Enhancing training and education: Developing robust training
and education programmes to support employee career
growth and skills development.
Introducing succession planning: Gradually implementing a
structured succession planning process to ensure leadership
continuity and prepare employees for future roles within
Carclo.
Expanding wellbeing initiatives: Extending the scope and
reach of wellbeing initiatives to further support our employees’
mental and physical health.
“Our team is moulded in a relentless
pursuit of product innovation, upheld
by uncompromising quality standards,
and driven by an unwavering
dedication to putting our customers
at the heart of everything we do. We
strive to redefine excellence in every
interaction and product experience.”
Gabriel Acuña, Chief
Procurement Officer
17
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
At Carclo, we understand that strong relationships with our stakeholders are essential for
our success. Every action and initiative is grounded in our commitment to open collaboration
and meaningful engagement with each stakeholder group. Both the Board and the entire
Carclo team are dedicated to maintaining and enhancing these vital connections.
Our stakeholders
continued
Shareholder engagement
Customer engagement
At Carclo, we acknowledge the profound impact that our
shareholders have on our trajectory. Their insights are crucial to
shaping our strategies and decisions, driving our commitment to
sustainable and responsible growth.
Material issues
Maintaining transparent and timely communication of financial
performance and business developments.
Ensuring sustainable and responsible growth that delivers
long-term value to our shareholders.
Aligning corporate strategy with shareholder interests and
expectations.
Upholding strong corporate governance and rigorous risk
management practices.
Current engagement
Enhanced digital presence on our website and LinkedIn to
keep shareholders informed and engaged.
Full adoption of ESG principles in our operations, making
sustainability a central aspect of our business model.
Continuation of essential communications through financial
reports and presentations via the Investor Meet Company
platform for half-year and full-year results.
Planned improvements
Further improvement of our digital communication channels
to make shareholder information more accessible and
interactive.
Expansion of virtual events beyond standard presentations
to include more comprehensive investor engagement
opportunities.
Strengthening dialogue with institutional investors and proxy
advisors to ensure alignment between corporate strategies
and shareholder expectations.
At Carclo, customer insights are central to our decision-making
processes, driving our commitment to meet and exceed their
expectations. This focus ensures we continually enhance our
offerings, particularly in high-precision critical components,
aligning closely with our customers’ evolving needs.
Material issues
Ensuring the quality and reliability of our products and
services.
Strengthening customer relationships and maintaining high
levels of satisfaction.
Proactively identifying and addressing emerging customer
needs and market trends.
Current engagement
Customer surveys guiding our improvement projects in all
aspects of customer service.
Organisational reset to enhance our customer service focus,
facilitating open and frank conversations.
Regular engagement through meetings and feedback
sessions to assess performance, pinpoint improvement areas,
and seize new opportunities.
Planned improvements
Development of customer portals to streamline
communication and enhance service accessibility.
Continued expansion of digital capabilities to improve
customer engagement, streamline processes and boost
responsiveness.
Support for customer initiatives aimed at achieving climate
neutrality and enhancing sustainability, demonstrating our
commitment to their environmental and social goals.
Supplier engagement
Suppliers are a vital component of our stakeholder ecosystem,
contributing significantly to our production capabilities, product
quality and sustainability standards. Our goal is to cultivate
strong, collaborative relationships with suppliers who share our
commitment to quality and ethical practices.
Material issues
Ensuring responsible sourcing and strict adherence to ethical
and environmental standards.
Developing long-term relationships with suppliers that
emphasise mutual trust and collaborative innovation.
Encouraging continuous improvement and leveraging supplier
expertise beyond mere component supply.
Current engagement
Transition from co-ordinated to cross-functional
procurement, marking a significant step towards achieving
world-class supply management.
Regular interactions and strategic discussions with suppliers
to evaluate performance, resolve concerns and identify
improvement opportunities.
Expansion of our supplier diversity programme to include a
broader spectrum of enterprises, enriching our supply chain.
Planned improvements
Further development and integration of digital tools to
enhance collaboration and increase transparency within our
supply chain.
Continuous expansion of our supplier diversity programme to
ensure a more inclusive supply chain.
Initiating joint sustainability programmes with suppliers to
tackle environmental challenges and enhance resource
efficiency collectively.
18
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Our stakeholders
continued
Lending bank engagement
Our lending bank plays an important role in supporting Carclo’s
financial stability, providing support that enables the Group to
invest for the future whilst serving the current customer base.
The maintenance of this robust relationship is vital in ensuring our
stakeholders‘ continued confidence in Carclo’s sound financial
management.
Material issues
Generating sufficient cash flow to meet our long-term
commitments to the lending bank.
Keeping the lending bank well-informed of our progress
towards achieving the Group’s objectives and financial
performance.
Current engagement
Regular tripartite meetings involving the lending bank, the
pension scheme and Carclo to discuss financial performance
and strategic alignment.
Collaborative reviews of the Group’s budget and strategic
plans, with adjustments to interest covenant rulings as
necessary to sustain the lending bank’s support.
Planned improvements
Further improving information flows about Carclo’s financial
status and key developments, including through the regular
quarterly meetings between the CEO, CFO and the lending
bank to ensure continuous dialogue and address any emerging
concerns promptly.
Exploring opportunities with the lending bank to optimise
our financial structure and access additional funding sources,
aiming to strengthen our financial foundation further.
Pension fund engagement
At Carclo, the pension scheme’s health is crucial to our
commitments to both past and current employees. We prioritise
timely contributions to ensure the fund remains robust,
effectively serving our employees’ interests and securing
their futures.
Material issues
Adhering to the agreed schedule of deficit repair
contributions, carefully balancing the needs of the scheme
with the operational and investment demands of the business.
Ensuring the appropriate management of the scheme’s assets
and liabilities.
Current engagement
Periodic tripartite meetings with the lending bank and trustees
to align on financial performance and strategic direction.
Regular engagement between the Chair, CEO and CFO and
the trustees, maintaining continuous dialogue.
Collaborative efforts with the trustees to ensure the scheme’s
long-term funding is sustainable and optimally structured.
Close co-operation and open communication with the
trustees to ensure a unified approach to managing the scheme.
Planned improvements
Exploring future enhancements to the pension scheme’s
investment strategy with the trustees, focusing on long-term
sustainability and maximised value for retirees.
Local community engagement
At Carclo, we deeply value the input of local communities in
shaping our corporate citizenship initiatives. We are committed
to creating positive and sustainable impacts, making decisions
that not only meet community needs but also contribute to
their growth.
Material issues
Identifying opportunities where Carclo can make significant,
sustainable contributions to local communities.
Encouraging and enabling our employees to actively
participate in community support activities.
Current engagement
Integration of community engagement topics in our quarterly
town hall meetings, led by the Group Executive team.
Active promotion of our community efforts on our public
LinkedIn page, increasing visibility and transparency.
Continuous demonstration of high engagement in addressing
local community issues.
Planned improvements
Expansion of community engagement activities to all regions,
with strategic alignment from the Group Executive team.
Enhanced visibility of our community engagement through
regular updates on our website and across all social media
channels.
19
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Key Performance Indicators
Financial KPIs
Return on capital employed
(%)
13.1%
FY23: 9.7%
3.4pps
Definition and method of calculation
Return on capital employed measures the underlying operating
profit for the Group, as a percentage of assets employed,
defined as working capital plus tangible assets.
Explanation of importance
Helps to monitor our success in generating profits from the
assets employed in the business.
Cash conversion rate
(%)
160.6%
FY23: 84.0%
76.6pps
Definition and method of calculation
Cash generated from operations divided by earnings before
interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation.
Explanation of importance
Helps to monitor how well the Company converts its profits
into cash.
Return on sales
(%)
5.0%
FY23: 4.1%
0.9pps
Definition and method of calculation
Underlying operating profit from continuing operations divided
by revenue from continuing operations. Please refer to the
reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures within the
information for shareholders on pages 163 and 164.
Explanation of importance
Helps to monitor the efficiency of the Company’s operations.
Fixed asset utilisation ratio
3.3x
FY23: 3.2x
3.1%
Definition and method of calculation
Revenue from continuing operations divided by tangible
fixed assets.
Explanation of importance
Helps to monitor how efficient we are using the tangible fixed
assets at our disposal to generate revenue.
Net debt
(£m)
£29.5m
31 March 2023: £34.4m
14.3%
Definition and method of calculation
Net debt is defined as loans and borrowings, including lease
liabilities, cash and cash deposits as at the balance sheet
date. Please refer to the reconciliation of non-GAAP financial
measures within the information for shareholders on pages
163 and 164. Lease liabilities as at the balance sheet date were
£11.2m.
Explanation of importance
Helps to appraise the Group’s capital structure and liquidity.
Underlying operating profit from
continuing operations
(£m)
£6.6m
FY23: £5.9m
11.9%
Definition and method of calculation
Operating profit from continuing operations before exceptional
items. Please refer to the reconciliation of non-GAAP financial
measures within the information for shareholders on pages
163 and 164.
Explanation of importance
Helps to monitor our success in generating profits from our
operations and our performance.
20
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
To enable our performance to be tracked against our organic growth strategy, we have determined that the following Key Performance Indicators (“KPls”)
should be focused on.
Key Performance Indicators
continued
Non-financial KPIs
Incident frequency ratio
2.28
FY23: 1.47
55.1%
Definition and method of calculation
Measures the number of incidents per 100,000 hours worked. In
FY24 Carclo introduced a more rigorous reporting process which
encourages employees to report any and all incidents, regardless
of severity. This explains the percentage increase between
FY23 and FY24.
Explanation of importance
Helps to monitor our success in operating a safe working
environment.
Women in senior management positions
(%)
22.0%
FY23: 13.0%
9.0pps
Definition and method of calculation
Calculated as the proportion of employees in senior
management positions identifying as female. The definition of
“senior management” for this purpose is the Group Executive
Committee, including Executive Directors.
Explanation of importance
Enables us to monitor our commitment to our global policy of
equality and inclusiveness.
Energy intensity ratio
(tCO
2
e)
145.7 tCO
2
e
FY23: 155.3 tCO
2
e
6.2%
Definition and method of calculation
Energy intensity ratio is tCO
2
e per £1m of revenue from
operations.
Explanation of importance
Enables us to monitor tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per
£1m of revenue.
21
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Risk management and additional information
Corporate social responsibility is a critical element
of operations and decision-making. The Group
understands the importance of ensuring that
the business positively impacts employees,
customers, suppliers and other stakeholders, which
in turn supports the long-term performance and
sustainability of the Company.
Our philosophy is to embed the management of
these areas into our business operations, both
managing risk and delivering opportunities that can
positively influence our business.
We also recognise that the expectations of all our
stakeholders are constantly increasing, and we
aim to meet and, wherever possible, exceed these
expectations.
Also, during this year, no prosecutions, fines
or enforcement action have occurred due
to non-compliance with safety, health or
environmental legislation. We’ve effectively lowered
lost time accidents, underlining the impact of our
unwavering commitment to safety. Our increased
safety vigilance has also highlighted minor incidents
and improvements, showcasing our comprehensive
approach to employee wellbeing.
Responsible operations
Group Executive Committee
The Group Executive Committee, led by the Chief Executive Officer, drives the Group’s actions in the fields of global social responsibility, health and safety,
anti-bribery and corruption, environmental and climate change policies, charitable support, equality and human and labour rights, whistleblowing, and supply
chain labour standards.
Non-financial reporting
We comply with the non-financial reporting requirements in Sections 414CA and 414CB of the Companies Act 2006.
The table below, and information to which it refers, is intended to help stakeholders understand our position on key non-financial matters.
Reporting requirement
Policies and standards which govern our approach
Environmental matters
Environmental Policy
Responsible operations report (page 26)
Employees
Ethical Policy
Health and Safety Policy
Equal Opportunities and Diversity and Inclusion Policy
Responsible operations report (pages 23 and 25)
Human rights
Modern Slavery Statement
Ethical Policy
Responsible operations report (page 23)
Anti-corruption and anti-bribery
Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy
Ethical Policy
Whistleblowing Policy
Responsible operations report (page 23)
Statement of corporate governance (page 45)
Policy embedding, due diligence
and outcomes
Principal risks and uncertainties (page 37)
Description of principal risks and
impact of business activity
Principal risks and uncertainties (pages 37 to 42)
Description of the business model
Our business model and strategy (pages 9 to 13)
Non-financial KPIs
Key Performance Indicators (page 21)
What’s in this section
People
23
Health and safety
25
Corporate responsibility
25
Environment
26
22
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
The Board considers that it is paramount that the Group maintains the highest ethical and professional standards in all its undertakings.
Responsible operations
continued
People
The Group places considerable value on the
involvement of its employees. It has continued to
keep them informed on matters affecting them and
various financial and economic factors affecting the
performance of the Group.
Diversity and inclusion
The Group operates, and is committed to, a
global policy of equality that provides a working
environment that maintains a culture of respect
and reflects the diversity of our employees. It
is dedicated to offering equal opportunities to
everyone regardless of gender, nationality, ethnicity,
language, age, status, sexual orientation, religion or
disability.
We believe all employees should be able to work
safely in a healthy workplace without fear of
discrimination, bullying or harassment.
We believe that the Group should demonstrate
a fair mix across all levels of our business.
At 31 March 2024, 26.7% of our employees
identified as female (31 March 2023: 28.5%).
The proportion of women in senior management
positions amounted to 22% (31 March 2023: 13%).
Our diversity encompasses differences in ethnicity,
gender, language, age, sexual orientation, religion,
socio-economic status, physical and mental ability,
thinking style, experience and education. We
believe that the vast array of perspectives that
result from such diversity promotes innovation
and business success. We operate an equal
opportunities policy and provide a healthy
environment which will encourage excellent
and productive working relationships within the
organisation.
We encourage recruitment, training, career
development and promotion on the basis of
aptitude and ability, without regard to disability.
We are also committed to retaining employees
who become disabled during the course of their
employment. We endeavour to make reasonable
adjustments to the duties and working environment
to support any employee suffering a disablement
during their employment, including providing
retraining as necessary.
Wellbeing
The safety and wellbeing of the Carclo team has
continued to be foremost in the minds of the Board.
In addition to the measures introduced at the
start of the pandemic, a range of further actions
have been taken to support colleagues through
these challenging times. The Board is continuously
grateful for colleagues’ positivity, resilience and
dedication.
Since 2001, the Group’s Health and Wellbeing
Programme, “Carclo Cares”, offers every
employee access to an Employee Assistance
Programme (“EAP”) helpline. “Carclo Cares”
ensures comprehensive emotional, financial or
legal support. We also uphold a Stress, Mental
Health and Wellbeing Policy and appoint Health
and Wellbeing Champion volunteers at each site.
The resulting decrease in the incident frequency
rate reflects our sustained commitment to
employee safety and illustrates our continuous
improvement efforts. This reduction not only
improves the overall work experience for our
employees but also affirms our commitment to
their health and safety.
Development
We continue to invest in developing all our
employees through informal and formal routes.
Assessment of individual training needs is critical to
the annual appraisal process.
Ethical Policy
Following the enactment of the Bribery Act 2010,
we have codified our Ethical Policy confirming
our commitment to not tolerating any bribery,
corruption or other unethical behaviour on the part
of any of our businesses in any part of the world.
Compliance with the Act has been a priority for
the Group and the policy provides guidance and
instruction to employees and training has been
performed in all areas of the business to ensure that
it is complied with.
Modern Slavery Act 2015
Carclo’s most recent Modern Slavery Statement
can be found at
www.carclo-plc.com
.
“Over the past twelve months, our legal
journey has seen remarkable progress.
Beginning with the seed of compliance,
we have nurtured substantial growth
in our risk management processes
and witnessed the flourishing
development of legal governance.
A testament to our firm commitment
to integrity, resilience and ethical
leadership, solidifying Carclo’s
legal evolution.”
Florentina Andronovici,
Head of Legal
23
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Responsible operations
continued
Venkatraj Mahendran
Manufacturing Manager (Bangalore)
In a male-dominated injection moulding world, my
dedication is a powerful reminder that spirit and
tenacity know no gender. As Carclo nurtures my
skills, it is not just evolving into a technician but
demonstrating boundless thinking where women
can thrive in industries traditionally dominated by
men. My new journey is proving that the path can be
reshaped and the possibilities are endless. I feel like
a shining example for the team, showing that
everything is possible!
乔萍
Qiao Ping
Process Technician (Taicang)
I started with the company 25 years ago, right after
we were purchased by Carclo. I was hired as the
Accounts Receivable Clerk at that time and have
worked my way through different aspects of the
company, to now being the Interim Financial
Controller for the US. Through the 25 years both
the Company and myself have grown into what we
are today. I have seen sites opening and closing
over the years and met many people. Through all
of these ups and downs, we have always come out
stronger than we were before.
Jennifer Findley
Interim Financial Controller (CTP US)
Reflecting on my 16-year journey with
Jacottet-Industrie, beginning as a Qualified Worker
and progressing to Workshop Manager,
I’ve witnessed significant positive changes since
we joined the Carclo Group in 2008. The transition
was smooth, maintaining our established operations
while enhancing our work environment. Carclo’s
annual investments have improved our daily lives,
from new equipment and offices to refurbished
break rooms. They’ve introduced holiday vouchers
and prioritised workplace safety, all while preserving
our family business spirit. Carclo’s support has truly
made Jacottet-Industrie an even better place
to work.
Vincent Legrand
Workshop Manager (Jacottet France)
From starting as an Engineer to now leading as a
Manufacturing Manager, my journey with Carclo has
been nothing short of exhilarating. I’m immensely
grateful for the recognition bestowed upon me and
my team. Witnessing our collective efforts mirrored
in the Company’s growth has been truly rewarding.
Thank you, Carclo team, for your trust and
acknowledgment.
Voices of experience
24
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Responsible operations
continued
Health and safety
A health and safety policy statement is in place
to ensure a safe working environment at all times.
The health and safety policy statement also
demonstrates our responsibility to customers,
suppliers and contractors and we maintain
communication of the policy at all levels throughout
the Group.
Carclo highly values the health and wellbeing of its
employees and has been proactive in reinforcing a
robust health and safety culture. Key initiatives in
FY24, personally driven by our CEO, our leadership
team and the Global H&S Coordinator, included
introducing a more rigorous reporting process
which encouraged employees to report any and all
incidents, regardless of severity, which explains the
increase in lost time incidents from 2.28/100,000
hours in FY24 from 1.47/100,000 hours. The Group
did, however, report a decrease in the number of
lost time incidents per 100,000 hours worked.
Safety first:
All meetings, regardless of
department or function, focus on health and
safety, ensuring it is always top of mind.
Ten golden rules:
We have established the top
ten golden rules for health and safety, guiding
our employees to act following these principles.
Carclo Cares Safety Week:
An initiative
organised across all locations, focusing on
activities promoting safety awareness and
practices, which helped increase knowledge and
attention towards health and safety protocols.
Incident reporting:
Direct reporting of any
incident to the CEO has ensured prompt action
and helps drive home the seriousness with which
we take employee safety.
Carclo Cares dashboard:
Our global
dashboard provides transparency about safety
incidents and reinforces our commitment to
accountability and improvement.
Visible reminders:
All sites now display signs
indicating the number of days since the last
incident, fostering a conscious and consistent
effort to maintain safe working environments.
Health and safety case study
This year marks the second successful
implementation of Safety Week across
Carclo sites, engaging every employee
in vital safety initiatives. Activities ranged
from presentations and training sessions to
competitions, drills and quizzes, reinforcing
our Zero Harm in the Workplace policy.
Although Safety Week has concluded, our
dedication to safety remains unwavering.
We will persistently assess the efficacy
of our safety measures and foster active
participation from employees at every
organisational level to uphold a secure
work environment.
Corporate responsibility
Global social responsibility
As a global entity, Carclo upholds its commitment to
ethical supply chain practices across all communities
in which we operate. With direct oversight of all our
manufacturing facilities, we pledge to serve as a
responsible producer, ensuring transparency and
accountability throughout all our operations.
Community involvement
We empower our businesses to actively
contribute to their local communities through
charitable endeavours and educational initiatives.
Responsibility for these efforts is delegated to
local management, ensuring direct and meaningful
impact at the grassroots level. The efforts below
highlight Carclo’s dedication to enhancing the
wellbeing of its local communities.
In the US, Carclo provided sponsorships and
scholarships to local community colleges. In
addition, the CTP facility in Latrobe participated
in the “Toys for Tots” programme and “Shop with a
Veteran” event at Christmas, ensuring that children
from underprivileged families receive toys during
the holiday season.
Carclo also contributes to the community by
participating in the yearly Wiffleball fundraiser for
the local parks and recreation, as well as supporting
the local police department through the “Shop with
a Cop” programme.
Our facility in Bangalore supported the Indian
government’s corporate social responsibility
(“CSR”) scheme and, during the year, helped to
build a higher primary school building with three
classrooms along with a library for 6th and 7th
standard students. This school was put into use
from March 2024.
In October 2023, our Chinese facility, working with
the Red Cross, donated medical expenses for two
critically ill children’s continuous treatment.
Our Bruntons facility helped finance playing kits
for primary school rugby in local socially and
economically disadvantaged areas.
Charitable donations
Carclo employees participate in a variety of
activities to support both local and national
charities.
Some highlights from the year include our
Aerospace business supporting its local training
board which is run as a charity through EDETA
(Edinburgh and District Employers Training
Association). The charity provides for apprentice
training mainly in the Lothians but also has some
input into the Borders and Fife regions of Scotland.
We also make charitable donations in support of
local communities. In FY24, the Group donated
£4k to charity (FY23: £14k).
It is the Group’s policy not to make political
donations and no such donations were made in
the year (FY23: £nil).
25
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Intensity ratio
(tCO
2
e per £1m of revenue)
100
200
160
140
120
FY22
FY21
FY23
FY24
180
195.5
172.0
155.3
145.7
Responsible operations
continued
Environment
Environmental Policy
Carclo’s guiding philosophy involves an ongoing
commitment to mitigating and, where feasible,
completely eradicating adverse environmental
effects arising from its diverse commercial pursuits,
while still delivering high-grade products that meet
the unique requirements of our clientele.
Carclo seeks not merely to comply with all
environmental laws and regulations but also to
surpass the benchmarks put forth by the local
regulatory bodies. This drive is part and parcel of
Carclo’s ambitious goal to create an environmentally
conscious and responsible culture. We aim to
involve all stakeholders – employees, clients and
suppliers – in this endeavour, and we proactively
engage and communicate with regulatory
authorities at all suitable intervals.
Implementation actions for our
Environmental Policy
Project Zelda, now in its second year, stands as
Carclo’s flagship sustainability initiative. Focused
on research and development, it aims to reduce
waste, enhance energy efficiency, and champion
sustainable resource management. While specific
details are confidential, the project underscores our
commitment to environmental responsibility and
innovation. We have set ambitious targets, aiming
to cut our external waste by half within two years
and reduce the energy consumed in creating quality
products by 5% annually.
Sustainability standards are of paramount
importance to Carclo, demonstrated by the
achievement of a bronze EcoVadis rating in
April 2024, which places us in the top 35% of
companies globally.
EcoVadis, with its comprehensive rating system,
aids us in maintaining and elevating our responsible
business practices and we incorporate these into
the very heart of our supply chain operations.
Noteworthy CO
2
footprint factors
Energy consumption:
We measure the energy
intensity ratio of tCO
2
e per £1m of revenue
from operations, as this covers all the activities
of the Group, which reported a decrease of
6.2%. In addition, we also measure this in kWh
per kilogramme of products manufactured.
Our ambitious target is a 5% reduction per annum
for the next three years.
Material waste:
This refers to the percentage of
materials procured that end up as waste material
outside of Carclo. Our goal is to cut this figure by
half within three years and we are actively recording
this to monitor progress.
Water usage:
We measure our water consumption
in absolute litres per annum. We are implementing
water-saving measures throughout our operations
and are starting to see a positive impact.
Greenhouse gas emissions
and energy consumption
The Group is required to report its annual
greenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions pursuant to
the Companies (Directors’ Report) and Limited
Liability Partnerships (Energy and Carbon Report)
Regulations 2018 (“Regulations”). The 2018
Regulations, known as Streamlined Energy and
Carbon Reporting, came into effect on 1 April 2019.
We have collated data during the year to 31 March
2024 and are reporting emissions and energy
consumption for this period to coincide with the
Group’s financial reporting period.
Greenhouse gas emissions
Year-on-year GHG emissions: location-based methodology
Emissions from:
FY24
FY23
FY22
Percentage
change
(FY23 to FY24)
Scope 1 (tCO
2
e) Gas, fuel and
industrial emissions
520
559
718
(7.0)%
Scope 2 (tCO
2
e) Electricity
18,806
21,711
21,403
(13.4)%
Total (tCO
2
e)
19,326
22,270
22,121
(13.2)%
Group revenue (£m)
132.7
143.4
128.6
(7.5)%
Intensity ratio (tCO
2
e per £1m
of revenue)
145.7
155.3
172.0
(6.2)%
26
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Responsible operations
continued
Energy performance
– electricity (MWh):
From April 2023 to March 2024 the total electricity
consumption was 40,569 MWh and it has been
calculated that FY24 electricity consumption is 9.1%
lower than in the same period in FY23.
Energy performance
– natural gas (MWh):
From April 2023 to March 2024 the total natural
gas consumption was 1,986 MWh and it has been
calculated that FY24 natural gas consumption is
17.9% lower than in the same period in FY23.
Energy performance
– direct transport (MWh):
From April 2023 to March 2024 the total direct
transport consumption was 486 MWh. Whilst
it is the smaller proportion of the total Scope
1 emissions, it has been calculated that FY24
transport energy consumption is 28.5% higher than
in the same period in FY23.
Over the past year, the Group has been proactive
in implementing a diverse portfolio of energy
management initiatives, underscoring our
unwavering commitment to environmental
sustainability. This momentum has been bolstered
by a surge in energy prices across Europe, which
has accelerated our strategic investments in
energy-efficient projects.
Environment
continued
Greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption
continued
Energy consumption
MWh
FY24
FY23
FY22
Percentage change
(FY23 to FY24)
By region
UK
16,697
15,458
15,790
8.0%
Rest of world
26,419
31,988
31,593
(17.4)%
Carclo Group
43,116
47,446
47,383
(9.1)%
tCO
2
e
By region
UK
3,426
3,272
3,446
4.7%
Rest of world
15,900
18,998
18,675
(16.3)%
Carclo Group
19,326
22,270
22,121
(13.2)%
Total energy consumed 43,116 MWh
= 324.9 MWh/£m of revenue
Total revenue £132.7m
The intensity ratio of energy consumption has decreased this year by 6.2% due to energy-saving initiatives
implemented around the Group.
A significant ongoing energy conservation project
involves a joint investment with our customers to
transition production from high-energy-consuming
hydraulic machines to fully electric alternatives.
The first two phases of actually divesting hydraulic
machines have been successfully completed,
with the final phase set to be executed in the
forthcoming financial year.
As a result of these improvements and enhancing
our operational efficiency, we’ve already seen a
reduction in our energy intensity ratio of over 5%.
Nevertheless, we remain focused on our goal
for the Zelda project – an additional 5% annual
reduction in energy use per kilo of products
produced.
Across the Group, a number of initiatives took
place to reduce energy consumption and/or limit
greenhouse gas emissions:
Both the Czech and the UK facilities removed
the machines with the highest power
consumption from their portfolios, as part of the
divestiture of high-energy-consuming hydraulic
machines. The Czech facility also further
minimised production on hydraulic machines,
with production being consolidated on more
efficient electrical machines.
Our Taicang site adhered to energy conservation
programmes, new device investment and
facilities modifications. In addition, the site
maintained an environment treatment system
(including a level-two activated carbon filtration
device, which improves waste air). Companies
who have a similar eco system in place are the
site’s preferred partners.
In line with our Group-wide transition to LED
lighting a number of our sites (including India and
the UK) continued to successfully transition to
LED lamps, facilitating improved illumination and
lower energy consumption.
The facility in India installed motion sensors for
certain equipment (lamps, fans) which reduced
unnecessary electricity consumption.
Negotiations are substantially advanced in order
to improve insulation in our French facility.
The UK (Mitcham) facility entered into a
three-year contract for 100% renewable zero
carbon electricity, to take effect in October 2024.
Methodology and exclusions
We have reported on all the emission sources
required under the Companies (Directors’ Report)
and Limited Liability Partnerships (Energy and
Carbon Report) Regulations 2018. These sources
fall within our consolidated financial statements. We
do not have responsibility for any emission sources
that are not included in our consolidated statement,
other than those highlighted below.
This report is aligned with the GHG Protocol
methodology. The GHG Protocol establishes
comprehensive global standardised frameworks to
measure and manage greenhouse gas emissions
from private and public sector operations, value
chains and mitigation actions. The framework has
been in use since 2001, and forms a recognised
structured format, to calculate a carbon footprint.
The total electricity conversion to CO
2
e is on
a location-based basis. Energy consumption
is expressed in kilowatt hours (“kWh”), as this
is the unit specified by SECR legislation. Defra
2019 emissions factors have been utilised for UK
sites and appropriate country-specific emissions
factors have been utilised for overseas operations,
using published emissions factors by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency and the
International Energy Agency.
Data has been collated from source documentation
or, where this has been impracticable, using
estimates.
27
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Our mission
We are committed to driving sustainability into our
organisation. Sustainability is integral to our strategy
and has been built into our strategic plans.
The approach at Carclo is to embed the initiatives
and actions to increase sustainability and to reduce
the environmental impact of our operations into
the business strategy and usual management
processes. There is a strong correlation between
energy management, waste reduction, lower water
consumption and increased efficiency which give
greater sustainability and improve the trading
performance of the Group.
In addition, we engage with and inspire our people
to drive local initiatives in their communities to
contribute to a sustainable world.
Our greenhouse gas emissions are for the most
part generated by the consumption of energy in
our manufacturing processes.
Absolute targets
Reduction in absolute Scope 1 and 2 GHG
emissions by 50% by the end of 2030 from a
2022 baseline.
Renewable electricity procurement target to
increase annual sourcing of renewable and
carbon-free electricity to 50% by the end of
2027 and annually sourcing 100% renewable and
carbon-free electricity by the end of 2030.
Our progress to mitigate the impact of climate
change has been recognised by EcoVadis,
the world’s largest provider of business
sustainability ratings.
Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (“TCFD”)
Recommended disclosures for climate-related risks and opportunities
Reference
Compliance
a) Board oversight
Yes
page 29
b) Role of management
Yes
page 29
a) Risks and opportunities over the short, medium and long term
Yes
page 30
b) Impacts on the business’s strategic and financial planning
Yes
pages 30 to 31
c) Resilience of the strategy
Yes
page 31
a) Risk process
Yes
page 32
b) Risk management
Yes
page 32
c) Integration with the overall risk management
Yes
page 32
a) Metrics used by Carclo
Yes
page 32
b) Scope 1, Scope 2 and, if appropriate, Scope 3 greenhouse
gas emissions
Yes
page 26
c) Carclo targets and performance against them
Yes
page 26
Governance
Strategy
Risk
Management
Metrics and
targets
28
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Governance
This section discloses the organisation’s
governance around climate-related risks and
opportunities.
a) Board oversight
b) Role of management
The Board sets the Group’s overall strategy and risk
appetite including in relation to sustainability and
the environment. The Board of Directors monitors
climate-related risks and opportunities against
metrics, including:
Scope 1 and 2 emissions.
Absolute energy use.
Energy intensity.
Waste management.
Water used.
Carclo’s approach to climate change risks
and opportunities takes both a top-down and
bottom-up approach. The Board informs the
business, through the Chief Financial Officer
and heads of business units, on the Group’s
appetite and approach to climate change, and the
business, through management, then reports the
risk management process back to the Board. The
severity of each risk is quantified by assessing its
inherent impact and potential mitigating steps. This
ensures that residual risk exposure is recognised
and managed appropriately.
Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (“TCFD”)
continued
The Board
Oversees all aspects of TCFD and ESG, with ultimate responsibility for
determining future ESG and climate strategy and prioritisation of key
focus areas. Ensures the Group maintains an effective risk management
framework, which includes climate-related risks and opportunities.
Group Audit & Risk Committee
Oversees the Group’s financial statements and non-financial
disclosures, including ESG and climate matters. Supports the climate
and ESG strategy by ensuring the risks, including ESG and climate risks
and opportunities, people, health and safety, are effectively managed.
Chief Executive Officer
Informs senior management and employees of the Group’s climate
and ESG strategy and ensures that individuals have the resources they
need to implement it.
Chief Financial Officer
Delegated responsibility for climate-related matters. Responsible for the implementation of our climate change management strategy.
Owner of our climate-related risks and opportunities.
Group Executive Committee (“GEC”)
Oversees the implementation of the Group’s ESG and climate strategy.
Heads of Business Units
Identify, assess and manage climate-related risks and opportunities. Monitor and report progress against set metrics.
Environmental, Health and Safety
and Sustainability
Implement strategy. Report to the Group
Executive Committee on climate and wider
ESG matters. Development of initiatives to
reduce energy and Carclo’s impact on the
environment.
Informing
Reporting
Group Risk
Monitor and report progress against
set metrics.
Procurement
Implement strategy in all relevant activities,
including assessment of potential suppliers.
Development of initiatives to reduce energy
and Carclo’s impact on the environment.
The Chief Financial Officer reviews climate change and sustainability-related risks and opportunities in conjunction with the Group Executive
Committee, which also includes business unit heads. Business unit heads provide feedback from their respective units, allowing the Group Executive
Committee members to understand how risks and opportunities affect the Group as a whole. Any material changes, concerns or matters are escalated
to the Board of Directors.
Reviews were conducted with the GEC and business unit heads during FY24 to ascertain a better understanding of the risks and opportunities arising
from potential climate change impacts under different scenarios. The results of these reviews are set out on the following pages.
29
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Strategy
This section discloses the actual and potential
impacts of climate-related risks and opportunities
on the organisation’s businesses, strategy and
financial planning, where such information is
material.
a)
Risks and opportunities over the short, medium
and long term
b)
Impacts on the business’s strategic and financial
planning
c) Resilience of the strategy
The impacts, actual and potential, of
climate-related risks and opportunities on Carclo’s
business strategy and financial planning, and how
these impact Carclo over the short, medium and
long term, are discussed in the table to the right.
Short term
(0-3 years) plans developed to
decarbonise our business and realise change.
Medium term
(3-10 years) to meet our 2030 ESG
targets. Each business division develops strategic
plans to achieve the targets.
Long term
(10-25 years) we expect to see a
significant development in technology to allow
decarbonisation of the business, realising that there
are significant uncertainties.
Climate related materiality is defined using the impact
on EBITDA as follows:
N
Negligible impact
(£0-£0.1m) risks where the
company can absorb the financial cost and the
reputational impact is minimal
L
Low impact
(£0.1m-£1.0m) potential to be
notified by regulatory notices
M
Moderate impact
(£1.0m-£5m) potential to
be reported with a damage to reputation
H
High impact
(£5m-£10m) potential to impact
customer confidence
S
Significant impact
(£10m-£15m) significant
reputational damage
C
Critical impact
(£15m+) potential to be
catastrophic to the organisation
Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (“TCFD”)
continued
Strategic
Climate-related trend
Potential financial impact
Increased energy costs as
transition to green sources
Energy costs materially higher
Short to
medium term
M
Carclo is migrating to more efficient
presses using less power
Increased pricing of GHG
emissions
Increasing cost of materials as
producers use hydro-carbon input
Medium to
long term
M
Initiatives to reduce material
consumed in production
Raw materials
Potential issues with material
shortages as oil production is
reduced
Medium to
long term
H
Operational improvement initiative
to reduce material consumed in
production
Raw materials
Potential move away from
petrochemical to new materials
developed through
technological change
Medium to
long term
S
Strategy to review development to
be at the leading edge of change
would require significant investment
Changing customer
behaviour
Change in demand due to
technological change
Medium to
long term
S
Global footprint and material niche
mitigates the timescale of the
impact. Industry initiatives to redirect
to new technology. Carclo’s strategy
is to develop business utilising
alternative materials and processes.
Material risks and opportunities
Expected time
Materiality
Heat stress
Reduced production impacts on
workforce and equipment
Short, medium
and long term
S
New technology buildings, full
automation of production and
ambient temperature controls
Flooding
Impact on sites affecting logistics
and transport links
Medium to
long term
S
Certain sites impacted more than
others, mitigation by relocation in
long-term strategy
Physical risk
Opportunities
Development of new
products through innovation
to respond to change in
demand for environmentally
friendly materials
Increased revenue and
competitive edge
Medium to
long term
S
Regulation and customer preference
will drive the market change
30
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Strategy
continued
Our products contribute to the health and welfare
of the population through the delivery of medical
diagnostics and therapies. The products are
essentially based upon petrochemical materials,
moulded and finished utilising electrically powered
equipment. We serve a global market and so
transport logistics are an important factor.
The strategy is to switch to green sources of energy
supply and to increase efficiency to reduce the
consumption of power and raw material, a specific
programme to reduce waste has been implemented.
Technological development is expected to create
alternative materials to petrochemical products in the
long term.
Transition plan
Short term:
This planning focuses on climate
change-related actions to increase operational
efficiency and machine utilisation, reducing raw
material consumption, waste reduction, and
increased material re-use and changing power
providers to renewable/carbon-free energy to
achieve our 2026 target of 50% carbon-free
electricity. Migration from hydraulic presses to
electrical power presses enables more efficient
production in terms of energy usage.
Medium and long term:
No sites are identified as
being at risk of flooding from sea level rise before
2030. However, there are transport and logistical
impacts that my affect certain sites. We will increase
our use of lower emissions sources of energy to
reduce our exposure to fossil fuel price increases or
taxation. Our operational excellence team focuses
on increasing profitability and competitiveness
through energy and operational efficiency
improvements.
Investing in early-stage projects for
alternative raw materials:
We are working with
material scientists to source alternative solutions.
Investing to grow capacity in key markets:
We will invest in equipment growth in new market
sectors which would utilise alternative materials
to plastic.
Investing in key technologies:
Carclo’s
long-term approach (10-25 years) considers the
achievement of long-term goals and implementing
the solutions needed to decarbonise our business.
Our climate change-related long-term planning
includes decisions on the future of power
generation and supply, and advancements in
low carbon technology.
Transition risk
Increased pricing of GHG emissions:
As a
large energy consumer, a potential risk to Carclo is
exposure to carbon taxation. Migration to carbon
neutral energy sources mitigates this risk.
Physical risk – heat stress and water scarcity:
The impact of heat stress on staff productivity
and equipment efficiency compounded with
water scarcity interrupting operations is the most
significant risk. The expected impact is likely to be in
the following areas:
1.
Heat impacts to staff productivity and
forced downtime.
2.
Heat impacts to materials manufacturing
halting production to avoid spoilage.
3.
Heat impacts to operational equipment
such as control systems.
4.
Water scarcity impacts to operational
sites requiring access to clean water for
manufacturing processes.
For heat stress, the hourly productivity and revenue
loss are expected to impact relative to different
temperature bands. The change in number of days
above each threshold differs for each site and
a potential annualised loss is based on the likely
impact to staff productivity, material spoilage and
operational equipment.
For water scarcity, an increase in drought months is
expected. The results of the assessment indicate
that the resilience of the business to heat and water
stress is relatively poor in scenarios where there is
higher than 2°C increase in average temperatures;
in this scenario financial impact would be relatively
high. For 2°C or lower the mitigation actions are low
cost. As expected, there was variation across the
different regions, with geographies such as India
impacted earlier and more severely.
The financial impact relates to the cost of the use of
many available mitigations including the availability
of air conditioning to reduce heat impacts on staff
and materials, technologies to make our plants more
resilient, or changing working patterns to cooler
times of day. As a result of this analysis, heat stress
related incidents will be added to our employee
health metrics, to ensure that we are protecting
our workforce. Action has taken place in FY25 in
India to mitigate the impact on our employees.
Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (“TCFD”)
continued
31
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Risk management
This section discloses how the organisation
identifies, assesses and manages
climate-related risks.
a) Risk process
b) Risk management
c)
Integration with the overall risk management
Identification, assessment and
management of climate-related risks
The Board recognises the need to understand
and assess climate-related risk and the inherent
uncertainty therein. Risk management and internal
control are fundamental to achieving the Group’s
aim of delivering long-term sustainable growth.
Principal and emerging risks are identified both
“top down” by the Board and the Group Executive
Committee and “bottom up” through the business
units. Further details on Carclo’s procedures for
identifying, assessing and managing risk can be
found in the principal risks and uncertainties section
of the annual report on pages 37 to 42.
The severity of each risk is quantified by assessing
its inherent impact and mitigated probability, to
ensure that the residual risk exposure is understood
and prioritised for control throughout the Group.
Senior executives are responsible for the strategic
management of the Group’s principal risks,
including climate-related risk. The output of
ongoing scenario analyses will be integrated into
the risk register using this approach. These registers
identify internal and external factors that could pose
threats and opportunities to each business. They
evaluate the inherent impact, mitigated probability,
risk severity, control effectiveness and risk trends.
Process for managing
climate-related risk
Our Group Executive Committee meets monthly to
oversee matters including the management of our
most significant environmental and climate risks.
This group is chaired by our Chief Executive Officer
and attended by the Chief Financial Officer, the
Executive Director responsible for management of
climate-related risk.
We evaluate compliance regularly and consider
how these regulations may impact Carclo. Potential
risks are shared with the business units through
the monthly Group Executive Committee report.
The senior management teams for each business
unit are responsible for developing risk mitigation
and management strategies for the risks they
identified for their individual businesses. Each risk
is assessed by using the indicators of relevance
and their associated impact. Impact on revenue,
litigation outcomes, site disruption, applicable fines
and others are all quantifiable indicators that could
affect each site’s risk classification.
Processes for identifying, assessing
and managing climate-related risks
are integrated into Carclo’s overall
risk management
Climate change is recorded as a principal risk on
the Group risk register. Climate change covers
transition and physical risks and includes the
potential increase of mandatory regulation and
increased scrutiny from stakeholders. It is assessed
in the same way as all other principal risks.
Throughout FY24, the Board reviewed the
preparedness of the Company to all known principal
risks with a significant potential impact at Group
level. Additionally, the Chief Financial Officer, in
conjunction with members of the Group Executive
Committee, carried out risk reviews.
These reviews included an analysis of the principal
risks, and the controls, monitoring and assurance
processes established to mitigate those risks to
acceptable levels. The risk from climate change was
assessed to have a high severity rating. How this
compares to other principal risks can be found in the
principal risks section of the annual report.
Metrics and targets
This section discloses the metrics and targets used
to assess and manage relevant climate-related
risks and opportunities, where such information
is material.
a) Metrics used by Carclo
b)
Scope 1, Scope 2 and, if appropriate, Scope 3
greenhouse gas emissions
c)
Carclo targets and performance against them
Metrics used to assess
climate-related risks and
opportunities
Carclo tracks its Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by
each site. The emissions intensity ratio is monitored
and targets set for improvement.
The CTP division utilises energy intensive
equipment as part of its manufacturing process and
the division has commenced monitoring the energy
required to produce a standard amount of finished
product and is setting targets and action plans to
drive overall energy efficiency.
We have ongoing initiatives executed by our
businesses which are employed in our greenhouse
gas emissions report on pages 26 and 27.
A detailed disclosure of Scope 1 and Scope 2
(“GHG”) emissions and related risks can be found
on page 26 of this report. The targets used
by Carclo to manage climate-related risks and
opportunities and performance against targets can
be found on page 26 of this annual report.
Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (“TCFD”)
continued
32
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Dear shareholder
This year was one full of challenges which drove
innovation in response to them, creating the focus
on internal self-help to put the business on a sound
footing for the future, as evidenced by the greatly
improved performance in the second half of the
financial year.
The lower demand by key customers for PCR
testing, and lost business in FY23 impacting the
base business for FY24, resulted in lower revenues
of £132.7m against last year’s £143.4m. The impact
of currency movement was marked, being a £4.5m
decrease on the prior year comparative. Of the
£132.7m achieved, £5.9m relates to work not
transferred from sites closed or being closed which,
in effect, lowers the base level of revenue as we
start the new financial year.
The underlying operating profit came in at
£6.6m, compared to £5.9m (or £5.5m at constant
currency) in the prior year. The prior year also
benefited from foreign exchange gains of £0.9m.
Return on sales was 5.0%, increasing by 0.9 of a
percentage point over 4.1% last year.
The increase in profitability was due to the actions
implemented by our advanced process optimisation
programme increasing asset utilisation, improved
pricing processes, better purchasing and the drive
to reduce waste, which increased contribution
margins, which were up by 4.0 percentage
points to 35.9%. Overheads were slightly up at
£40.9m (FY23: £40.0m). The second half
underlying operating profit was £4.4m, representing
a marked increase on the first half of FY24 of
£2.2m, resulting in £6.6m for the full year.
Exceptional net costs for the year amounted to
£4.9m, compared to £4.7m in FY23. The cash
cost of these was £0.6m compared to £2.2m in
the prior year. Exceptional costs comprised £3.4m
rationalisation costs incurred in CTP for site closures
and related asset impairments, as well as other,
largely employee-related central costs, £1.0m past
service cost in respect of retirement benefits GMP
equalisation, £0.4m net costs in respect of the
work commenced to refinance the Group, £0.2m
net costs arising from cancellation of the OEM
customer supply agreement in the prior year, £0.1m
inventory provision relating to a customer who has
ceased trading, less £0.3m credit for the release of
a legacy health-related provision that is now settled.
Statutory operating profit is up £0.6m on prior year
to £1.8m (FY23: £1.2m).
Net finance costs increased by £1.8m to £5.6m
(FY23: £3.7m), this includes the imputed net
interest on the defined benefit pension liability
of £1.8m (FY23: £0.7m). Finance expense has
increased despite a reduction in average net debt.
Interest on bank loans and leases has increased as
a result of sharp increases in base rates, with the
average UK base rate in FY24 being 5.0% compared
to 2.3% in FY23. Pension interest, although largely
non-cash, has surged year on year, as a reduction
in discount rates adversely impacts liabilities to a
greater extent than assets are benefited.
Taxation credit for the year was £0.5m
(FY23: £1.4m expense).
Statutory loss after tax was £3.3m (FY23: £4.0m)
on continuing operations, giving a statutory
loss per share on all operations of 4.5 pence
(FY23: 5.4 pence).
Underlying profit after tax was higher than prior
year at £0.8m (FY23: £0.3m), giving an underlying
earnings per share of 1.1 pence (FY23: 0.4 pence).
As we deliver on our strategic priorities, we continue
to report those KPIs which we consider best
demonstrate the progress being made towards
achieving our strategic goals. These are set out on
pages 20 and 21.
A reconciliation of statutory to underlying
non-GAAP financial measures is provided on
pages 163 and 164.
Financial position
Net debt
During the year, we redirected our investment in
capital expenditure towards those with a rapid
payback, focusing on our continuous improvement
strategy aimed at supporting asset performance
and utilisation. Tangible additions were £7.5m
(FY23: £5.8m) mainly in support of major customer
programmes. Of this investment, £4.6m (FY23:
£3.5m) was delivered via leasing.
Following the shift in strategic focus, improvements
in our cash generation have reduced net debt.
Net debt, including IFRS 16 lease liabilities, decreased
in the year by £4.9m to £29.5m (FY23: £34.4m).
Net debt excluding leases decreased £4.2m to
£18.3m (FY23: £22.5m).
Finance review
“We have prioritised the control of capital investment,
working capital management and tight control over costs in
order to increase cash generation and to increase the return
on capital.”
Eric Hutchinson
Chief Financial Officer
33
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Financial position
continued
Cash
Cash generated from operations was £15.6m and
100.8% higher than the prior year (FY23: £7.8m),
reflecting the change in strategy from a focus on
top-line growth to cash generation via operational
improvements and robust working capital control.
Efficient management of working capital was a key
contributor to cash performance and will continue
to be our focus moving forward.
The focus on cash management resulted in a
working capital turnaround benefit of £5.8m;
with the current year working capital reducing
by £4.6m against a prior period increase of
£1.2m. Net cash outflow from investing activities
during the year was £2.4m (FY23: outflow £0.8m)
driven by £2.9m for capital investment in adapting
production lines and facilities to improve operating
performance in FY25 and beyond.
Net cash outflow from financing activities during
the year was £12.1m (FY23: £4.7m), comprising
£3.7m repayment of lease liabilities (FY23: £4.1m)
and net repayment of other borrowings of £8.5m
(FY23: £0.6m). There was an overall £4.4m
reduction in cash during the year (FY23: £2.0m).
Cash generated by the Group was principally
utilised to make capital investment and lease
repayments, pension deficit repair contributions,
scheduled and unscheduled bank loan repayments
and interest payments. The Group’s full cash flow
statement is set out on page 92.
Debt
Total debt decreased by £9.3m during the
financial year to £35.4m. It was reduced by £5.1m
repayments of term loans (of which £3.7m were
unscheduled), £3.2m repayment of the revolving
credit facility, £3.8m repayments of lease liabilities
and other loans, £1.3m lease remeasurement and
£0.6m from positive foreign exchange movements.
It was increased by £4.6m from new lease debt.
Bank facilities
On 5 July 2024, the Group successfully extended
the facilities with the Company’s lender for the
multi-currency term and revolving facilities
agreement to 31 December 2025.
The debt facilities available to the Group on
31 March 2024 comprise term loans of £24.0m,
denominated in sterling 9.2m, in US dollars
13.3m and in euro 4.9m. Of the sterling loan, £2.3m
will be amortised by 31 March 2025 and £3.8m will be
amortised in the period between 31 May 2025 and
30 November 2025 before the balance becomes
payable by the termination date, 31 December 2025.
The facility also includes a £3.5m revolving
credit facility, denominated in sterling, maturing
31 December 2025. The revolving credit facility was
largely repaid in the period, leaving an amount drawn
at 31 March 2024 of £0.3m (FY23: £3.5m).
Moving forward, the Group remains committed to
prioritising the strengthening of its balance sheet
and seeking alternative sources of financing. We
will continue to closely monitor market conditions
and work proactively with our bank to ensure our
ongoing financial stability and success.
Segmental overview
CTP division
CTP revenue of £125.0m was down 8.6% (5.5% at
constant currency) (FY23: £136.8m) with underlying
volumes lower due to lower demand for PCR testing
and lost business in FY23.
CTP divisional operating profit before exceptional
items was £9.4m, £2.1m up on the prior year
(FY23: £7.3m) reflecting the benefits of the EMEA
restructuring and the start of restructuring in the US.
Resulting underlying operating profit return on sales
grew to 7.5% (FY23: 5.4%).
The CTP business principally operates in three
key market sectors: Life Sciences, Precision
Components and Optics. The Life Sciences segment
experienced a marked fall in healthcare demand
during the year, particularly in North America which
is exposed to the larger life science analytics market.
New product development activity remained high
and is set to improve demand in the medium to long
term. Demand in our traditional Optics market of
eye care and after-market car-lighting significantly
reduced, reflecting the constraints that consumers
have seen as the cost of living increases. However,
the products maintain a high contribution margin on
the lowered activity level.
Cost reductions are being implemented which
improved profitability in the second half, with this
improved performance expected to continue into
the new financial year and beyond. In the US, this
included the strategic closure of our facility at Derry
and the start of the closure of our Tucson facility,
transferring production to our sites in Pennsylvania.
CTP Design & Engineering activity grew markedly
with revenue at £21.6m, up 7.4% compared to the
prior year (FY23: £20.1 m). CTP Manufacturing
Solutions revenue was down 11.4% to £103.5m
(FY23: £116.7m).
New control processes have been implemented
to mitigate the impact of material price inflation.
Business is being transferred to the APAC region
and local marketing and sales activity has generated
new business there. The EMEA region has
implemented new energy efficiency initiatives, and
the current focus is on improving the cost base and
efficiency of the business’s US operations. This had
a significant positive impact on the performance in
the second half of this financial year. Loss-making
operations, which have been closed or are in the
process of being closed, reported an operating loss
in the year of £0.8m.
Aerospace division
In the Aerospace sector, we saw an impressive
growth in revenue to a record level of £7.6m, growth
of 15.1%, compared to £6.6m in FY23. This reflects
increased demand as new airframes are being
built, with build programmes recommencing after
the COVID-19 lockdown, and new business won
in South Asia. The business has a solid reputation
for product quality. These factors drove operating
profitability of £1.7m for the year, up by 11.8% on
the prior year’s £1.5m, overcoming the inflation
challenges seen in all businesses. Our strategy to
strengthen and deepen relationships with existing
customers with exploration for new customers is
achieving payback.
Central costs
Central costs increased by £1.6m to £4.5m, pre
exceptional costs, largely due to the non-repeat
of significant foreign exchange gains in the
prior year and investing in stronger leadership
of the Company. We will continue to seek ways
to streamline our central expenses without
compromising the quality of service we deliver to
the business.
Finance review
continued
34
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Finance review
continued
Defined benefit pension scheme
actuarial valuation
The last triennial actuarial valuation of the Group
pension scheme was carried out as at 31 March 2021.
This reported an actuarial technical provisions
deficit of £82.8m.
The statutory accounting method of valuing the
Group pension scheme deficit under IAS 19 resulted
in an increase in the net liability to £37.2m as at
31 March 2024 (FY23: £34.5m).
Over the year, the Group’s contributions to the
scheme were £3.5m (FY23: £4.1m).
The pension maintains a 60% liability hedge
via Liability Driven Investments (“LDI”) and
bond holdings.
Disclosures under IAS 19 may be volatile from
year-to-year. This is because the liabilities are
measured by reference to corporate bond yields,
whereas the majority of the scheme’s assets are
invested across a variety of asset classes that may
not move in the same way.
Treasury
The Group faces currency exposure on its
overseas subsidiaries and on its foreign currency
transactions. In addition, as set out in the principal
risks and uncertainties section of the annual report
and accounts, the plc is reliant on regular funding
flows from the overseas subsidiaries to meet
banking, pension and administrative commitments.
To manage this complexity, we have enhanced the
Group’s management of cash, debt and exchange
risks by strengthening our treasury function.
The Group reports trading results of overseas
subsidiaries based on average rates of exchange
compared with sterling over the year. This income
statement translation exposure is not hedged as
this is an accounting rather than cash exposure
and as a result the income statement is exposed to
movements in the US dollar, euro, renminbi, Czech
koruna and Indian rupee. In terms of sensitivity,
based on the FY24 results, a 10% increase in the
value of sterling against these currencies would
have decreased reported profit before tax
by £0.8m.
Dividend
Under the terms of the extended bank facilities
agreement, the Group is not permitted to make a
dividend payment to shareholders up to the period
ending 31 December 2025.
Alternative performance measures
In the analysis of the Group’s financial performance,
position, operating results and cash flows,
alternative performance measures are presented
to provide readers with additional information.
The principal measures presented are underlying
measures of earnings including underlying
operating profit, underlying profit before tax,
underlying profit after tax, underlying EBITDA
and underlying earnings per share.
This results statement includes both statutory
and adjusted non-GAAP financial measures, the
latter of which the Directors believe better reflect
the underlying performance of the business
and provides a more meaningful comparison
of how the business is managed and measured
on a day-to-day basis. The Group’s alternative
performance measures and KPIs are aligned to
the Group’s strategy and together are used to
measure the performance of the business and
form the basis of the performance measures for
remuneration. Underlying results exclude certain
items because, if included, these items could distort
the understanding of the performance for the year
and the comparability between the periods.
A reconciliation of the Group’s non-GAAP financial
measures is shown on pages 163 and 164.
We provide comparatives alongside all current year
figures. The term “underlying” is not defined under
IFRS and may not be comparable with similarly titled
measures used by other companies.
All profit and earnings per share figures relate to
underlying business performance (as defined
above) unless otherwise stated. A reconciliation
of underlying measures to statutory measures for
FY24 is provided below:
£000
Continuing operations
Statutory
Exceptional items
Underlying
CTP operating profit
6,158
(3,259)
9,417
Aerospace operating profit
1,649
(50)
1,699
Central costs
(6,017)
(1,548)
(4,469)
Group operating profit
1,790
(4,857)
6,647
Net finance expense
(5,587)
(5,587)
Group (loss)/profit before taxation
(3,797)
(4,857)
1,060
Taxation credit/(expense)
498
743
(245)
Group (loss)/profit for the period
(3,299)
(4,114)
815
Basic (loss)/profit per share (pence)
(4.5)p
(5.6)p
1.1p
The exceptional items comprise:
£000
Group
1
Rationalisation costs
(3,360)
Past service cost in respect to retirement benefits
(1,020)
Refinancing costs
(433)
Net costs arising from cancellation of future supply agreement
(188)
Settlement /(costs) in respect to legacy claims
284
Doubtful debt and related inventory provision
(140)
Total exceptional items
(4,857)
1.
There were no exceptional items in respect to discontinued operations in the year to 31 March 2024.
35
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Post balance sheet events
and going concern
Post balance sheet events
On 5 July 2024, the Group’s lending bank extended
the committed facilities to 31 December 2025.
Notice was given to the landlord on 12 April 2024
that the Company would exercise the break option
to exit the leased buildings at Tucson, Arizona, USA
on 1 October 2025 following the decision to close
the facility at Tucson. The reduction in the lease
liability of £1.3m has been reflected in the balance
sheet at 31 March 2024 as the Company was certain
to exit on closure.
Going concern
The financial statements are prepared on the going
concern basis.
On 5 July 2024 the Group’s lending bank extended
the committed facilities to 31 December 2025.
Since the year end, the Company has commenced
a process to refinance the existing term loans and
revolving credit facilities in order to provide the
strategic funding for the next phase of the business
development. Other than mentioned, since the year
end there have been no significant changes to the
Group’s liquidity position.
As part of the original bank financing in August 2020
the Group became subject to four bank facility
covenant tests. The quarterly covenants, and levels,
to be tested are:
underlying interest cover (minimum 1.45
in March 2024, increasing to 2.60 by
December 2025);
net debt to underlying EBITDA (2.75 maximum);
core subsidiary underlying EBITA (50%
minimum); and
core subsidiary revenue (75% minimum).
Core subsidiaries are defined as Carclo Technical
Plastics Ltd; Bruntons Aero Products Ltd; Carclo
Technical Plastics (Brno) s.r.o; CTP Carrera Inc and
Jacottet Industrie SAS, with CTP Taicang Co. Ltd
and Carclo Technical Plastics Pvt Co Ltd being
treated as non-core for the purposes of these
covenants.
A schedule of contributions is also in place with
the pension trustees with an agreed £3.5m to be
paid annually until 31 October 2039. Additional
contributions also agreed are 26% of any FY25
surplus over underlying EBITDA of £18m.
The Group is subject to a number of key risks and
uncertainties, as detailed in the principal risks and
uncertainties section on pages 37 to 42. Mitigation
actions are also considered in this section. These
risks and uncertainties have been considered in the
base case and severe downside sensitivities and
have been modelled accordingly.
The Directors have reviewed cash flow and
covenant forecasts to cover the period of at least
twelve months from the date of signing these
consolidated financial statements, considering the
Group’s available debt facilities and the terms of the
arrangements with the Group’s bank and the Group
pension scheme.
The base case forecast includes assumptions
around revenue, margins, working capital
and interest rates. The sensitivity analysis has
considered the risks facing the Group and has
modelled the impact of each in turn, as well as
considering the impact of aggregating certain risk
types, and shows that the Group is able to operate
within its available facilities and meet its agreed
covenants as they arise. Furthermore, the Directors
have reviewed sensitivity testing, modelling a range
of severe downside scenarios. These sensitivities
attempt to incorporate identified risks set out in
the principal risks and uncertainties section of
this report.
Severe downside sensitivities modelled included a
range of scenarios modelling the financial effects
of: loss of business from discrete sites, an overall
fall in gross margin of 1% across the Group, a fall in
Group revenue of 3% matched by a corresponding
fall in cost of sales of the same amount, and interest
rate risk. Under these scenarios the Group would
continue to meet minimum covenant requirements,
although with minimal headroom under these
scenarios in the next twelve months.
The downside testing did not allow for the benefit of
any action that could be taken by management to
mitigate the impact of the scenarios. Using the base
case forecast the minimal underlying operating
profit headroom, observed on the underlying
interest cover covenant, would be £0.8m. This
suggests that a £16m drop in revenue or a 12%
drop in underlying operating profit would result in a
breach of covenants.
The Group is not exposed to vulnerable sectors or
vulnerable countries but is dependent on certain
key customers, which create risks and uncertainties.
These risks and uncertainties are documented, and
the mitigating actions being taken are covered in
detail in the principal risks and uncertainties section
on pages 37 to 42.
On the basis of this forecast and sensitivity testing,
the Board has determined that it is reasonable to
assume that the Group will continue to operate
within the facilities available and will be able to
adhere to the covenant tests to which it is subject
throughout at least the twelve-month period from
the date of signing the financial statements.
Accordingly, these financial statements are
prepared on a going concern basis.
Eric Hutchinson
Chief Financial Officer
26 July 2024
Finance review
continued
36
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo defines risk as uncertainty, whether positive
or negative, that will affect the outcome of an
activity or intervention.
The Group operates a risk management framework
to direct and control the organisation with regard
to risk.
Carclo’s appetite for risk is categorised across the
Strategic, Operational, Financial and Compliance
risk categories of the business and is set out
below. This operates as a guide to management
as to appetite levels in approaching risk to help set
priorities and levels of focus.
The Board is responsible for creating the
framework for the Group’s risk management
to operate effectively and for ensuring risk
management activities are embedded in Carclo
processes. The Board is also responsible for
ensuring that appropriate and proportionate
resources are allocated to risk management
activities. The Board undertakes risk management
to improve its understanding of the actual and
potential risks to our business as well as its resilience,
performance, sustainability and success, to enable it
to assess and respond to new opportunities as they
arise and to provide fair and balanced information to
shareholders and potential shareholders.
The Board has carried out an assessment of the
principal risks facing Carclo plc, including those
that would threaten its business model, future
performance, and overall viability. This report
details these risks and explains how they are being
managed or mitigated.
When assessing risk, the Board considers both
external (arising from the environment in which
we operate) and internal factors (arising from the
nature of our business and its internal controls and
processes).
Management is accountable to the Board for
monitoring the system of internal control and for
providing assurance to the Board that it has done so.
Principal risks and uncertainties
An essential part of the risk management framework
is for management to monitor the framework’s
operation in order to provide assurance throughout
the management organisation and to those
responsible for governance that it is operating
effectively.
Management is continually enhancing processes for
ensuring that the risk management stages such as
event identification, risk assessment, selection of
responses and risk reporting are working.
This includes managers giving attention to ensuring
that risk registers are being updated for new or
changing risks and that internal controls are being
adapted and developed where necessary.
Local management takes ownership of the specific
risks relevant to their sphere of operations with the
likely causes and effects recorded within the risk
register held at site level, with corporate risks being
identified within the Group Executive Committee
team. The risks are scored based on likelihood and
severity to enable any significant risks to be readily
identified and the appropriateness of mitigations to
be considered.
The risk registers are reviewed, challenged and
debated to keep them up to date and relevant to
our strategy. Risks are escalated as appropriate.
During the year all the key risks identified by
the sites were evaluated and aggregated, with
the highest risks reviewed in detail at the Group
Executive Committee meetings. This Committee
then proposed the risks that it considered key to
the running of the business for evaluation at the
Board meeting.
The Board carried out a review of effectiveness
which concluded that the risk management process
that had been in place during the year was operating
as documented and continued to be appropriate.
A risk schedule is tabled at Audit & Risk Committee
and/or Board meetings at regular intervals, allowing
the Directors to discuss the key risks currently
identified alongside their mitigations and status
of actions. This also includes emerging risks as
identified at Group Executive Committee and
Board meetings and instances of incurred losses
against identified risks to enable assessment of the
appropriateness of the mitigations.
The efficiency and effectiveness of existing internal
controls will continually be challenged to improve
the risk management framework.
The responsibilities of the Audit & Risk
Committee are explained on pages 51 to 53.
These responsibilities include the reviewing of
the Group’s risk management systems. These
are primarily designed to mitigate risk down to an
acceptable level, rather than completely eliminate
the risk, and the review can provide only reasonable
and not absolute assurance of effective operation,
compliance with laws and regulations and against
material misstatement or loss.
The Group’s management is responsible for the
identification, assessment, management and
monitoring of risk and for developing, operating
and monitoring the system of internal control.
The Audit & Risk Committee receives reports
from management on the effectiveness of those
systems it has established.
Listed on the following pages are the most
significant risks that may affect the Group, although
there are other risks that may occur and impact the
Group’s performance.
Risk category
Risk appetite
Strategic
Moderate
The Group is prepared to take moderate risks to realise its ambitions. In doing so, we aim to strike a
balance between our socio-economic role (low risk acceptance) and our commercial targets (higher
risk acceptance).
Operational
Very Low
The Group focuses on ensuring the efficiency and continuity of business activities. We aim to reduce
the risks that threaten this continuity as much as possible. In the area of safety and security, we do
all we can to avoid risks that could put our customers, internal and external employees or visitors in
danger. Therefore, our risk acceptance in this regard is very low.
Financial
Low
We aim to maintain a solid financial position in order to provide stability and value add to our
stakeholders including shareholders, our bank, the pension scheme trustees, our suppliers, and
customers, who are all connected to the Carclo chain. The Group is not prepared to take risks that
could jeopardise its credit ratings or harm its key financial relationships.
Compliance
Zero
The Group strives to comply with all applicable laws and regulations, with a particular focus on safety
and security, environmental, competition, tendering and privacy/information security laws.
Description
37
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Principal risks and uncertainties
continued
Risk
Mitigation
On 5 July 2024, the Group successfully agreed with the Company’s bank to
extend the Company’s facilities to 31 December 2025.
At 31 March 2024, total UK bank facilities were £27.5m, of which £3.5m
related to a revolving credit facility (maturing on 31 December 2025)
and £24.0m in term loan facilities which expire on 31 December 2025.
There are covenants over interest cover, net leverage, core subsidiary
revenue and core subsidiary EBITA in respect of the agreed £27.5m
committed debt facility. These are tested quarterly.
In terms of foreign exchange (“FX”) risk, Carclo plc has sterling, dollar and
euro denominated bank debt and sterling debt for the pension scheme.
There is a risk that insufficient income may be generated in foreign
currencies, which could impact the Group’s ability to service the bank and
pension liabilities.
Strengthening of sterling against the subsidiaries’ functional currencies
creates a downside risk to P&L forecasts.
Potential interest rate increases could also increase debt servicing costs by
approximately £0.1m for each 0.25% interest rate increase.
Volatility in performance has resulted in exposure to credit risk due to
uncertainty in supporting financial covenants combined with the full year
increasing cost of servicing debt.
The majority of the Group’s earnings are now generated overseas, with the
plc itself non-trading and therefore requiring regular funding as a cost centre
entity with committed bank and pension debt repayments. If there was
insufficient ability for overseas subsidiaries to repatriate cash to the plc then
it could create a liquidity shortfall.
Funding and liquidity planning and monitoring
Group management monitors liquidity across all regions through a rolling 13-week cash forecast and over the medium term through annual three-year forecasting
and regular in-year reforecasts.
Since the inception of the bank facility in August 2020 the Group has made capital repayments of £10.4m up to the period ended 31 March 2024. The Group
intends to continue to make scheduled repayments when due and to further accelerate repayment of the bank debt through additional unscheduled capital
repayments, on an event-driven basis.
Group cash headroom at 31 March 2024 against bank facilities was £9.2m and net debt excluding lease liabilities was £18.3m.
Bank and pension covenant compliance monitoring
The Group maintains a regular dialogue with both the bank and the pension scheme trustees. Covenant compliance is reported monthly to the bank and pension
scheme trustees in tripartite reports and is reviewed alongside Group performance regularly in tripartite quarterly management meetings with the Chief Executive
Officer and Chief Financial Officer.
Agreed bank and pension covenants have been met continuously since establishing the initial £38m bank debt facilities in August 2020.
Management of FX exposures
Divisional FX hedging accountability
FX risk is managed at subsidiary level through natural hedges or forward contracts where the FX commitment timing and quantum is known and material.
Subsidiary-level risk management has been effective to date with relatively minor exchange gains and losses recognised at subsidiary level.
Group FX hedging policies are in place
These are set out in the Group finance manual to help mitigate FX exposure in central treasury with reference to latest currency cash flow and financial forecasts.
Individual material FX cash flow hedging is applied where significant FX exposure may arise, such as from large capital or project spend or sale contracts, or where
significant cash repatriations are assessed against net FX cash current and forecast positions to determine whether hedging is appropriate.
Multi-currency bank debt hedging in place
USD 13.3m and EUR 4.9m of debt is held in currency, providing a hedge over parts of the Group’s net investment in foreign operations.
Interest rate management
The Group uses forward yield curves to forecast interest as part of its three-year planning process and runs sensitivities around increasing interest rates.
Over the three-year plan period the Group is targeting significant additional capital repayments on its debt facilities. Although finance costs are anticipated to
increase in the short term due to recent market interest rate increases, the reduction in debt will bring future finance cost benefits.
Monitoring
The Group generally aims to generate sufficient cash to cover holding company funding requirements, although there may be timing shortfalls to forecast,
monitor and resolve with funding where needed.
The Group monitors liquidity Group-wide by country through a rolling 13-week cash forecast and over the medium term through annual three-year forecasting.
Inter-company charge processes in place
Cash is regularly remitted to the UK from subsidiaries via dividends, royalties and management service recharges, such as IT, Group finance and management,
as well as from intra-group loans.
Subsidiaries regularly forecast their available cash to remit over the short and medium time horizons, allowing UK liquidity to be planned and managed.
Support from professional tax and treasury advisors
External advisors provide appropriate technical and legal guidance on inter-company trading, management charges and managing the appropriate and effective
payments and receipts of inter-company cash.
01. Treasury risk (funding, liquidity, foreign exchange (“FX”), and banking and pension covenants)
Change
38
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Principal risks and uncertainties
continued
Risk
Mitigation
02. Operational execution risk and management bandwidth/dependence on key individuals
Change
CTP is currently going through a period of change as it focuses on the
delivery of significant improvements in operational performance. This
includes a number of critical restructuring projects which if not executed
well will absorb management time, impact customer relationships and hinder
forecast earnings growth and cash generation.
Continued scarcity of labour globally, but in particular in the US, may impact
the Group’s ability to execute both projects and production.
There are some key members of management with significant experience
of the business and upon whom the Group particularly relies. There is a
continuity risk in the case that any of these individuals decide to leave
the Group.
Regular risk reviews
The Group has developed an enhanced focus on site-level risk management. Frequent management reviews between risk owner and reporting managers
are conducted.
Succession planning
The Group has commenced the rollout of formal succession planning across all management to identify and mitigate the highest risks for cover and succession
and implement plans to reduce the risk of significant business impact from key dependent loss.
Operational excellence
The Group is putting an increased focus on operational excellence to ensure that the operational execution risk is minimised. This involves investment in both
people and systems to ensure that the business meets both the needs of its customers and also maximises the efficient usage of its assets. Delivery of key
restructuring projects is regularly monitored and the Board is kept appraised on progress to ensure projects are delivered on time and on budget.
KPI reporting and regular local and Group management monitoring
Performance execution is managed via enhanced focus on management of risks at a local level, regular and frequent management reviews between risk owners
and reporting managers and the use of operational KPIs reporting and monitoring.
03. Supply chain disruption and political uncertainty, leading to increasing input costs and extended lead times
Change
The disruption as a legacy of the pandemic on global industries with diverse
supply chain dependencies such as Carclo continues, with increased supplier
costs, delays, shortage of labour and materials resource having a significant
impact on costs, profitability and customer service for the Group alongside
many industries.
Furthermore, political uncertainty such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine,
war in Gaza and heightened risk of wider conflict threatening supply chain
routes, and other overseas trade issues such as US and China trade tariffs
can naturally affect decisions by our customers to invest and therefore
impact on our trading in those locations.
Process
The Committee and local management monitor and review relevant supply chain risks and political and trade developments regularly, using input from advisors as
appropriate, and establish action plans and strategies accordingly, while engaging with trade associations and government bodies.
Increasing risk level
Supply chain difficulties and increased costs continued throughout 2023, particularly with regard to energy supply. Current uncertainties around the supply of
petroleum-based material means that Carclo continues to work tactically and specifically with priority areas of the supply chain and customer delivery to minimise
supply disruption, net cost impact, and customer shortfalls in delivery. Post-pandemic materials and labour shortages, subsequent higher cost, and greater delays
in order fulfilment exacerbated by the war in Ukraine continue to challenge companies, including Carclo.
Offsetting opportunities
Management is putting an increased focus on operational effectiveness and efficiency to mitigate the effects of these challenges. Robust processes have been
put in place to respond to price inflation in a timely manner.
39
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Principal risks and uncertainties
continued
Risk
Mitigation
04. IT security breach, systems failures
Change
Hacking and ongoing data security risk is a concern for businesses
everywhere. For listed companies like Carclo the risk increases. There has also
been a substantial rise in cyber-criminal activity such as ransomware and trojan
deployment and an increase in sophistication and frequency of attacks has
been seen. Stakeholders and insurers are increasing the thresholds required
of cyber security greatly, and increased turbulence in the global economy has
further heightened the risk of unwanted systems breaches.
Our IT systems process immense data volumes each day. These systems
contain confidential information about our customers, employees and
shareholders. A breakdown or system failure may lead to major disruption for
the businesses within the Group, especially if network access is lost.
Breaches of IT security may result in unauthorised access to or loss of
confidential information, breaches of government data protection legislation,
loss or stoppage of the business, reputational damage, litigation and
regulatory investigation or penalties.
Systems failure impact can have significant operational and financial
ramifications if connection is unable to be restored quickly.
Limited cyber breaches have resulted in the exploitation of internal control
weakness through an intense social engineering fraud. The weakness
exposed was a lack of oversight regarding the change to bank account
details for supplier payments. False information led to the transfer of
legitimate payments to a fraudulent bank account, and whilst some money
was recovered through the banking system and the crime insurer made a
settlement for part of the loss, the Company suffered a financial loss.
Security frameworks
Carclo uses a security password-protected firewall to help minimise the risk of fraudsters hacking into the system, and has a number of security solutions to
monitor and protect its users and maintains its systems with up-to-date versions of all its major applications.
During the last twelve months the Group has implemented a comprehensive suite of cyber protection software firewalls. Cyber controls have been put in place
and are monitored closely and significant levels of cyber security training continue to be carried out across the Group. Multi-factor authentication has been
implemented across all Group sites.
Multi-level security and review
IT management undertakes regular risk reviews to keep data secure and construct a layered environment that provides a countermeasure to the varying forms
of cyber-attacks. Multiple security applications, layers of back-up, limiting access to core systems and restructuring IT in-house skill to proactively respond to
emerging cyber threats are some of the countermeasures now activated.
Accelerating cloud-based systems and security migration
As part of the Group’s new IT strategy the Group is accelerating migration to cloud-based systems and security for underpinning protection of Group systems as
well as cost-efficiency and effectiveness.
Reducing Disaster Recovery lead times
The business has a defined Disaster Recovery process. Previous targets for full recovery in five days are now being superseded by new solution plans to roll out
24-hour data recovery and return to operations, which is tested each year.
05. Reliance on major customers and credit risk
Change
A substantial part of the Group’s revenue is concentrated in a relatively small
number of large customers. Details in relation to concentration risk have
been disclosed in note 3: segment reporting. Any underperformance could
lead to the loss of existing or future business with the customer. Further,
other competitive factors or changes in customer behaviour could lead
to a significant loss of revenue. Pressures from price increases required to
offset the post-pandemic input cost inflation impact across the business
and international economies could trigger opposition from customers and
destabilise the relationship.
The largest concentration of customer risk is at the India plant with
predominantly one large global customer.
We have a major end customer of the Aerospace business, who along with the
rest of the sector experienced a downturn in the aerospace market due to the
pandemic. Orders are however now recovering strongly as air travel increases
and aircraft build rates are reverting to more normal levels.
Management is putting an increased focus on operational excellence to ensure that the Group retains its key customers through class-leading cost, quality and
delivery. The Group has long-standing positive relationships with its key customers and the high levels of investment the Group has made in both production
equipment and process know-how help to ensure the longevity of those relationships.
Diversification of business is being sought longer term where concentration levels are most high, such as India. This will take time to develop.
Credit risk has been reduced significantly by gaining credit insurance cover in the financial year for the whole Group, including notably India and China, where
previously credit insurance cover was absent or limited.
Our policy has been to focus on major customers who are blue-chip multi-nationals operating in the medical, electronics and aerospace markets, providing a
degree of credit protection from strength, size and reputation.
40
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Principal risks and uncertainties
continued
Risk
Mitigation
06. Pensions
Change
Carclo’s UK defined benefit pension scheme, having long since closed to
new entrants, is mature and large compared with the size of Carclo.
Whilst the interests of the Group and the pension fund trustees are aligned
in agreeing an affordable schedule of deficit repair contributions, there is
always some element of risk that this will not be achieved. Therefore, there
remains a risk that the Pensions Regulator may impose conditions on the
Group that the Directors deem to be unaffordable.
The Group expects it will be able to make the payments set out in the
schedule of contributions.
The PPF levy is a tax on the scheme’s net liability driven by the Group’s
credit risk. Any change in this cost would be recognised in the Group
income statement and whilst it would be settled out of scheme assets, thus
protecting the Group’s cash, it diminishes the deficit reduction effect of the
Company’s contributions.
Trustee liaison
The Group fully engages with the scheme via the Chair of the Trustees, who is responsible for the development of a strategy to proactively manage assets,
liabilities and administrative costs of the scheme.
Trustee regular monitoring
Regular review of the pension scheme and Company position is conducted currently in the form of tripartite meetings between the bank, the trustees and
the Company.
Deficit reduction initiatives
The Group works with the trustees on deficit reduction initiatives. The Group offers eligible pensioners the option to switch from a pension with indexed-linked
pension increases to a higher fixed pension with no future increases. The Company has also introduced a Bridging Pension Option which reduced the accounting
(IAS 19) calculation of the scheme deficit and may also reduce the scheme liabilities on the trustees’ technical provisions basis.
PPF levy management
The Group continues to liaise with advisors and the scheme’s Chair in respect of PPF levy management and other opportunities which can help benefit members
and scheme liabilities.
Enterprise value growth
Group management, with the support of the bank and scheme, is focused primarily on growing Group enterprise value to reduce the deficit relative to the size of
the Group. The Group has presented its budget and long-term plans to the scheme and the bank.
Investment strategy
The Company has participated in Trustee Board changes made to the scheme’s investment management. The Trustee Board has adopted an investment strategy
with some risk to enable asset growth to help reduce the scheme’s deficit.
The trustees elected to reduce the level of the hedged technical provisions liability to 60% to help avoid the risk of hedges becoming unsupportable should
gilt yields rise again. As a further stability measure, the scheme also maintains “cash flow matching” bonds covering a large proportion of the expected pension
outflows for the next nine years.
41
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Principal risks and uncertainties
continued
Risk
Mitigation
07. Climate-related risks
Change
The current global warming that is occurring brings an increased number
of risks (and opportunities) to the Carclo Group, which, if not managed
correctly, could have a major impact on Carclo’s operational and financial
outcomes and could lead to significant reputational damage.
Governance
To ensure that Carclo complies with regulatory requirements and also uniformly addresses the significant risks and opportunities that climate change is bringing,
Carclo has set up a governance structure to provide central control with appropriate delegation of authority to mitigate the risks posed.
Strategy
Our strategy involves engaging with stakeholders to better understand how the risks and opportunities are beginning to manifest themselves in the everyday
operations of our factories and how best we might deal with them. We have also appointed an external climate consultancy to undertake a thorough risks and
opportunities assessment to ensure that we align with regulatory requirements and can, at the same time, de-risk our business.
Risk management
Each business has been asked to identify risks and opportunities associated with climate change within their areas and these are then collated and considered
centrally to ensure a complete and uniform approach to risk and opportunities management.
Metrics and targets
Carclo is a relatively large user of energy, with its associated climate connotations. We have appointed an external climate consultancy to define appropriate
metrics and targets for each area of the Group to help meet climate obligations. The Board, through the governance structure that has been set up, will review
the consultancy’s work and seek to implement their recommendations to significantly improve our intensity ratios over a period of time.
08. Future global pandemics
Change
The COVID-19 pandemic was an unexpected shock to the global economy
and economic activity was suppressed globally. Differing approaches taken
by different governments in response to virus mutations, outbreaks and
waves, including lockdowns and shutting non-critical industry, created huge
disruption to globalised supply chains.
In the event of a further global pandemic or a resurgence of a more serious
variant of COVID-19 there may be a risk to customer demand, supplier
continuity and our own capability to deliver, meaning the Group needs to
adapt to continually changing circumstances and be ready to respond at
short notice.
Despite the potential for increased demand from our life science customers,
changing working practices and shutdowns would again have an impact
on operational efficiency which would likely adversely affect profitability.
During the pandemic the Group’s Aerospace division witnessed a significant
reduction in customers’ aircraft newbuild programmes and a similar impact
would be expected should a future global pandemic arise.
In the event of any future pandemic the welfare of our employees would
continue to be our top priority and we now feel better placed than previously
to swiftly adopt new secure working practices, including home-based
working, if required by government protocols.
Whilst there is nothing specific that can be done to prevent a future global pandemic at a Company level, Carclo has learned how to continue to work, albeit at a
reduced output, during the COVID-19 pandemic and is now far better placed to deal with a future pandemic than was the case in early 2020.
Home working, where possible, segregation of factory operatives, self-checking for symptoms and a higher level of stock items have all been found to be
mitigants in reducing the overall impact of any outbreak, notwithstanding that the health and safety of our workforce is paramount.
42
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
A robust assessment of the principal risks facing the
business was conducted, including those that would
threaten its business model, future performance,
solvency or liquidity, along with a detailed review of
the budget for the year ending 31 March 2025 and
the forecasts for the years ending 31 March 2026
and 31 March 2027.
Three years is considered to be an appropriate
period over which a reasonable expectation of the
Group’s longer-term viability can be evaluated and
is aligned with our planning horizon at both Group
and divisional level.
On 2 September 2022, the Group successfully
refinanced with the Company’s bank, concluding
a first amendment and restatement agreement
relating to the multi-currency term loan
and revolving facilities agreement dated
14 August 2020. The debt facilities available
to the Group at 31 March 2024 comprise a
term loan of £24.0m, of which £2.3m will be
amortised by 31 March 2025, £3.8m will be
amortised in the period between 31 May 2025 and
30 November 2025, before the balance becomes
payable by the termination date, which, on 5 July
2024, was successfully extended to 31 December
2025. At 31 March 2024, the term loans were
denominated as follows: sterling 9.2m, US dollar
13.3m and euro 4.9m. The facility also includes
a £3.5m revolving credit facility, denominated in
sterling, maturing on 31 December 2025.
Net debt at 31 March 2024 was £29.5m, reducing
from £34.4m at 31 March 2023. Group performance
during the year has enabled capital investment to
be made with net debt excluding lease liabilities
as of 31 March 2024 decreasing to £18.3m
(FY23: £22.5m).
Key to the Group’s viability, in addition to securing
alternative borrowing facilities, is that the Group
agrees with the pension scheme trustees a
schedule of contributions which is both affordable
from the perspective of the Group and also reduces
the pension deficit at a rate deemed acceptable
by the trustees of the pension fund. A full actuarial
valuation was carried out as at 31 March 2021 in
accordance with the scheme funding requirements
of the Pensions Act 2024. Under the recovery
plan agreed with the trustees following the 2021
valuation, a schedule of contributions was put in
place, being £3.85m in respect to the year ended
31 March 2023 and £3.5m to be paid annually
thereafter until 31 October 2039, plus an additional
contribution of 26% of any FY25 surplus payable
from 30 June 2025 to 31 May 2026.
The Directors have assessed that all contributions
and bank repayments are affordable throughout the
three-year period and are reflected in the covenant
projections.
The bank facilities are subject to four covenants
to be tested on a quarterly basis: underlying
interest cover; net debt to underlying EBITDA;
core subsidiary underlying EBITA; and core
subsidiary revenue. On 22 June 2023, the Group’s
lending bank agreed to adjustments of the interest
cover and the net leverage covenants. Based on our
current base case forecasts, these covenant tests
are expected to be met for all periods.
The next triennial actuarial assessment of the
Group’s defined benefit pension scheme liability will
be prepared as at 31 March 2024, with the schedule
of contributions being reviewed and reconsidered
between the employer and the trustees no later
than by 31 July 2025. For the latest actuarial
valuation (as at 31 March 2021) the scheme actuary
has calculated the technical provisions deficit to
be £82.8m; this deficit has decreased from the
previous valuation deficit (as at 31 March 2018)
of £90.4m.
In the context of the profitability and the cash
generation of the Group this remains a major
liability. In order to mitigate the risk to the Group,
the Board continues to work closely with the
pension scheme trustees to help reduce liabilities
and risk associated with the defined benefit pension
scheme where appropriate.
The current financing agreement provides the bank
and pension scheme during the term of the facility
with a certain level of monitoring of enterprise
performance and the possible use of surplus cash
flow once the investment needs of the business,
agreed between the parties, have been met.
In June 2024, the Company commenced to
seek refinancing for the next three years. The
programme is progressing well, with a number of
potential lenders reviewing financing offers. The
objective of the refinancing is to provide sufficient
funding and working capital to support the strategic
growth plan for the Company.
Management has considered whether it is aware
of any specific relevant factors, other than more
foreseeable risks that any business faces, beyond
the three-year time horizon. Aside from the risk
relating to future pension scheme deficit repair
contributions, bank loan repayments and related
covenants arising from the ongoing negotiations
described above, and consideration of the principal
risks and uncertainties, they have concluded that
there are no others of a significantly material nature.
The Directors have reviewed sensitivity testing
based on a number of reasonably possible
scenarios, taking into account the current view of
impacts of supply chain disruption and unmitigated
cost inflation on the Group arising particularly from
political uncertainty such as the Russian invasion
of Ukraine and heightened risk of wider conflict in
the Middle East impacting supply chain logistics,
possible overseas trading issues as well as other
potential future global pandemic.
Severe downside sensitivity testing has been
performed under a range of scenarios modelling
the financial effects of loss of business from:
discrete sites, an overall fall in gross margin of
1% across the Group, a fall in Group sales of 3%
matched by a corresponding fall in cost of sales of
the same amount, and a 1% increase in interest rates.
These sensitivities attempt to incorporate the risks
arising from impacts on manufacturing and supply
chain and other potential increases to direct and
indirect costs as well as treasury risk. The Directors
consider that the Group has the capacity to
take mitigating actions to ensure that the Group
remains financially viable. In terms of monitoring
the current commercial environment for risk, there
are no indications of any significant deterioration
in the sales order book pipeline, and no material
capital spend commitments outstanding which
would appear to be at risk of longer-term material
financial loss.
Following this sensitivity testing, the Directors have
concluded that the Group will be able to continue in
operation and meet its liabilities as they fall due over
a three-year period.
The strategic report was approved by the Board on
26 July 2024 and signed on its behalf by:
Frank Doorenbosch
Chief Executive Officer
26 July 2024
Eric Hutchinson
Chief Financial Officer
26 July 2024
Viability statement
43
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
The Board has assessed the viability of the Group over a three-year period to 31 March 2027 taking account of the Group’s
current position and the potential impact of the principal risks as documented in the previous pages.
The statement of corporate governance practices set out on the following pages, including the reports
of Board Committees and any information incorporated by reference, constitutes the corporate governance report of Carclo plc.
Dear Shareholder
On behalf of the Board, I am pleased to present
Carclo plc’s corporate governance report for the
year ended 31 March 2024. This report seeks to
provide shareholders and other stakeholders with
a clear understanding of how we discharge our
governance duties and apply the principles of
good governance set down in the UK Corporate
Governance Code 2018 (the “2018 Code”).
The Board aims to maintain and, where appropriate,
strengthen standards of corporate governance
throughout the Group. The Board supports the
principles laid down in the 2018 Code and continues
to monitor the Group’s governance practices.
This includes regular review of key policies and
procedures to ensure they remain fit for purpose.
Good governance is fundamental to the success
of the Group and is woven into the strategy and
decision-making processes throughout the
business. The tone from the top is cascaded
from the Board to the Executive team and out
to the business.
The composition of the Board is routinely assessed
to ensure we have the right balance of skills,
experience and knowledge required to achieve our
strategic goals. Within this assessment the Board
gives due consideration to the benefits of widening
Board diversity in terms of skills, knowledge,
ethnicity, age, experience, gender and perspective.
All appointments are made on merit alone.
During the year our Nomination Committee
oversaw an externally facilitated evaluation of
the Board and each of its Committees. The
conclusion of this evaluation was that whilst the
Board and its Committees function effectively and
that all Directors properly discharge their duties,
there are some areas where there is a need for
improvement, including a strengthening of our
control environment, both financial and commercial,
and to put more focus on succession planning.
The Board is now working on an action plan to deal
with the issues raised. A full report of the activities
and the outcomes of the evaluation can be found
on page 49.
We remain cognisant of the strong relationship
between ethics and governance and the role the
Board plays in demonstrating ethical leadership.
Further information on ethics is contained in our
responsible operations report on pages 22 to 27.
During the year, there were a number of changes on
the Board.
Eric Hutchinson, formerly a Non-Executive Director,
was appointed as Chief Financial Officer on
21 August 2023, succeeding David Bedford when he
stepped down. Eric brings a rich history of industry
experience, having significantly contributed to the
transformation balance sheet fortification of Spirent
Communication plc during his time as both Chief
Financial Officer and Chief Executive Officer. As a
result, Rachel Amey, Non-Executive Director, was
appointed as Chair of the Audit & Risk Committee,
interim Senior Independent Director and interim
Chair of the Remuneration Committee.
A search was conducted for a permanent
Senior Independent Director and Chair of the
Remuneration Committee. Jon Templeman
joined the Board as Senior Independent Director
on 1 February 2024 but decided to step down
on 27 February 2024. Rachel Amey was then
appointed as Senior Independent Director on
28 February 2024.
Following the year end, Natalia Kozmina joined the
Board as a Non-Executive Director on 22 April 2024
and was appointed as Chair of the Remuneration
Committee from 1 May 2024.
I am confident we now have a strong Board with
relevant experience to guide the business forward.
Our statement of compliance with the UK
Corporate Governance Code is set out on
page 45. The UK Corporate Governance Code
2024 (the “2024 Code”) will apply to the Company
from 1 April 2025. Work is underway to assess
compliance with the 2024 Code and address any
gaps as appropriate.
Joe Oatley
Non-Executive Chair
26 July 2024
Chair’s introduction
44
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
From 21 August 2023 until 31 January 2024 and from 28 February to 21 April 2024, the Board did not comply with the requirements of the following
provisions in the 2018 Code:
Statement of corporate governance
Provision
Requirement
Explanation
11
At least half the Board, excluding
the Chair, should be independent
Non-Executive Directors.
This situation arose as a result of Eric Hutchinson agreeing to move from his non-executive role into the role of Chief Financial Officer. Whilst a search
was already underway for an additional Non-Executive Director, this was accelerated in order to identify an independent Non-Executive Director who
would take on the roles of Senior Independent Director and Chair of the Remuneration Committee following Eric Hutchinson’s role change. In the
interim, Rachel Amey agreed to fulfil both roles. While the search was conducted, less than half the Board, excluding the Chair, comprised independent
Non-Executive Directors.
The Board was pleased to welcome Jon Templeman to the Board on 1 February 2024, who was appointed as a Non-Executive Director and Senior
Independent Director. He was determined to be independent on appointment. He stepped down on 27 February 2024 and Rachel Amey was
re-appointed as Senior Independent Director on a permanent basis.
Natalia Kozmina joined the Board as a Non-Executive Director after the year end, on 22 April 2024. She was determined to be independent on
appointment.
At the date of this report, the Board meets the requirement that at least half the Board, excluding the Chair, are independent Non-Executive Directors.
24
The Board should establish an
audit committee of independent
Non-Executive Directors, with a
minimum membership of two.
Eric Hutchinson’s move to the role of Chief Financial Officer also led to the membership of the Audit & Risk Committee falling to a single
independent Non-Executive Director. While the search for additional independent Non-Executive Directors was conducted, the Board fulfilled the
responsibilities of the Audit & Risk Committee.
On his appointment to the Board on 1 February 2024, Jon Templeman was also appointed as a member of the Audit & Risk Committee. After he
stepped down on 27 February 2024, the Board once again fulfilled the responsibilities of the Audit & Risk Committee while the search for additional
independent Non-Executive Directors was recommenced.
On her appointment to the Board on 22 April 2024, Natalia Kozmina was also appointed as a member of the Audit & Risk Committee.
32
Before appointment as chair of
the remuneration committee, the
appointee should have served on a
remuneration committee for at least
twelve months.
Eric Hutchinson's move to the role of Chief Financial Officer also required the appointment of a new Chair of the Remuneration Committee. Rachel
Amey agreed to fulfil this role in the interim while the search for a successor was conducted. On her appointment, she had not served on a remuneration
committee for at least twelve months.
Natalia Kozmina took over the role of Chair of the Remuneration Committee on 1 May 2024. On her appointment, she had not served on a remuneration
committee for at least twelve months. Nevertheless, she has extensive experience in human resources, most recently in her executive role where she
regularly attended remuneration committee meetings and worked with both the remuneration committee chair and management to shape executive
leadership remuneration and policy changes. The Board believes this gives her the requisite skills and knowledge to perform the role.
UK Corporate Governance Code
The Company remains committed to the highest standards of corporate governance, for which the Board is accountable. The Company has complied throughout the year with the main principles and provisions
of the 2018 Code, with the exception of Provisions 11, 24 and 32 for part of the year. The Company continues to maintain and review its systems, processes and policies to support its sustainability and governance
practices. This statement, together with the Directors’ remuneration report, describes how the Company has applied the main principles and provisions of the 2018 Code.
45
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Our Board
The Board
Group Executive Committee
The Board is collectively responsible for the management of the Company. The Board’s main role is to create long-term value for shareholders by providing
entrepreneurial and prudent leadership of the Company. It does this by setting the Company’s strategic aims and overseeing their delivery, ensuring that the
necessary financial and other resources are available, and by maintaining a balanced approach to risk within a framework of effective controls.
Audit & Risk Committee
Monitors and reviews financial reporting,
supporting the Board in observing its
responsibility for ensuring the Group’s financial
systems provide accurate information which is
properly reflected in the published accounts.
Reviews the effectiveness of the Group’s
internal control and risk management system,
the need for an internal audit function and the
work undertaken by the external auditor.
Reviews whistleblowing arrangements.
Nomination Committee
Monitors and reviews the composition and
balance of the Board and its Committees to
ensure Carclo has the right structure, skills,
diversity and experience in place for the
effective management of the Group. Where
an additional appointment is considered
appropriate, in light of its monitoring and review,
the Committee develops a description of the
role and capabilities required and proposes
candidates for appointment to the Board.
Manages Board effectiveness reviews.
Reviews management training and succession
planning in respect of the Company’s senior
executives.
Remuneration Committee
Oversees and, where appropriate, recommends
to the Board Carclo’s overall remuneration
policy, strategy and implementation including
the alignment of incentives with reward and
culture, taking into account employees’
pay and rewards when setting the policy for
Directors’ remuneration.
Determines the remuneration for the Executive
Directors and certain senior management.
The Group Executive Committee comprises
the Executive Directors together with senior
managers determined by the Chief Executive
Officer, including the heads of each business
division. The Committee is responsible to the
Board for running the ongoing operations of
the Group’s businesses and certain operational
and administrative matters are delegated by the
Board to the Group Executive Committee. The
Committee usually meets on a monthly basis.
Representatives from Finance, IT, Legal
and Health & Safety also attend Committee
meetings as required.
The purpose of the Committee is to assist the
Chief Executive Officer in the performance of
their duties within the bounds of their authority,
including:
the development and implementation
of strategy, operational plans, policies,
procedures and budgets;
monitoring operating and financial
performance;
the assessment and control of risk;
driving forward actions in ESG including
TCFD; and
the prioritisation and allocation of resources.
Each Committee plays a vital role in helping the Board ensure that high standards of corporate governance are maintained throughout the Group. Only the
Committee Chair and members of the Committees are entitled to be present at Committee meetings, but others may attend by invitation.
The authorities and duties of the Board and its Committees, as well as the roles and responsibilities of key individuals on the Board, are clearly set out in writing.
These documents are reviewed and approved by the Board on an annual basis and are available on the Company’s website.
46
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Our Directors
Joe is currently the Deputy Chair at Wates Group
Limited and a Non-Executive Director at Centurion
Group Limited. From 2012 to 2018 he was Group Chief
Executive of Cape plc, a global FTSE-listed company
specialising in the provision of critical industrial services
to the energy and natural resources sectors. Prior to
joining Cape he was Chief Executive of Hamworthy plc,
a global oil and gas engineering business, which he
joined in 2007 and led until its takeover by Wärtsilä in
2012. Joe spent the early part of his career in the
engineering sector in a broad range of roles, including
Managing Director of a number of different businesses,
strategy development and M&A.
Wates Group Limited – Deputy Chair
Centurion Group Limited – Non-Executive Director
External appointments
Skills and experience
N
R
Frank has devoted the majority of his career to
spearheading initiatives within the plastics industry,
primarily at RPC Group plc, a leading supplier of film and
packaging solutions. His comprehensive experience
encompasses senior roles in operations, finance, sales
and marketing, along with substantial enhancements in
business practices, managing expansive operations
throughout the EMEA and APAC regions. From 2016 to
2019, he held the position of CEO at RPC bpi group,
where he was instrumental in driving significant
turnarounds and strategic reorientations in the plastic
packaging sector. An ardent proponent of environmental
sustainability, Frank consistently champions the
adoption of alternative processes and materials that
minimise ecological footprints.
Thingtrax Limited – Non-Executive Director
Impact Recycling Limited – Non-Executive Director
Plastic Science by Design – Managing Partner
External appointments
Skills and experience
Following graduation, Eric qualified as a Chartered
Certified Accountant and spent his early career in
advisory and industrial roles before joining Spirent
Communications plc, the London-listed data
communications specialist. At Spirent he spent 13 years
as CFO and then six years as CEO before retiring in
2019, during which time he oversaw the transformation
of the business and a significant strengthening of its
balance sheet. He also served as a Member of the
Financial Reporting Review Panel for nine years.
Skills and experience
N/A
External appointments
Joe Oatley
Non-Executive Chair
Joe was appointed a Non-Executive Director of the
Company from July 2018 and served as Chair of the
Remuneration Committee from that date until April
2020. Joe served as interim Non-Executive Chair from
April to September 2020 and was appointed as the
Senior Independent Director on 30 September 2020.
Joe was appointed Non-Executive Chair on
6 November 2022.
Frank Doorenbosch
Chief Executive Officer
Frank was appointed a Non-Executive Director of
the Company on 1 February 2021 and Chair of the
Remuneration Committee from 30 April 2021.
After a short period acting as a consultant to the CTP
division, Frank was appointed as Chief Executive
Officer of Carclo plc on 6 October 2022.
Eric Hutchinson
Chief Financial Officer
Eric was appointed a Non-Executive Director of the
Company on 7 January 2021 and Chair of the Audit &
Risk Committee from 1 March 2021. Eric was appointed
Senior Independent Non-Executive Director and Chair
of the Remuneration Committee on 6 November 2022.
Eric was then appointed Chief Financial Officer and
Group Company Secretary on 21 August 2023.
A
Audit & Risk Committee
N
Nomination Committee
R
Remuneration Committee
Committee Chair
47
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Our Directors
continued
Board membership
As at 31 March 2024, the Board comprised the Non-Executive Chair, the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief
Financial Officer and one independent Non-Executive Director. As at the date of this report, the Board
comprises the Non-Executive Chair, the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Financial Officer and two
independent Non-Executive Directors.
The Chair and each Non-Executive Director were independent on appointment and the Board considers
the Non-Executive Directors to be independent in accordance with the 2018 Code.
Roles and responsibilities
The Chair has primary responsibility for leading the Board and ensuring its effectiveness. He sets the
Board’s agenda and ensures, together with the Senior Independent Non-Executive Director, that all
Directors can make an effective contribution.
The Chief Executive Officer has responsibility for all operational matters and the development and
implementation of Group strategy approved by the Board.
Board and Committee changes
David Bedford stepped down as Chief Financial Officer and a Director effective 21 August 2023.
Eric Hutchinson was appointed as Chief Financial Officer effective 21 August 2023, having served on the
Board since 7 January 2021 as a Non-Executive Director.
Rachel Amey was appointed as Chair of the Audit & Risk Committee, interim Senior Independent
Director and interim Chair of the Remuneration Committee effective 21 August 2023.
Jon Templeman was appointed as a Non-Executive Director and Senior Independent Director effective
1 February 2024. He also joined the Audit & Risk Committee on this date. He stepped down from these
roles effective 27 February 2024.
Rachel Amey was re-appointed as Senior Independent Director effective 28 February 2024.
Natalia Kozmina was appointed as a Non-Executive Director effective 22 April 2024. She also joined
the Audit & Risk, Nomination and Remuneration Committees on this date. She took over as Chair of the
Remuneration Committee on 1 May 2024.
A
N
Conflicts of interest
Under the requirements of the Companies Act 2006, each Director must seek authorisation before
taking up any position that may conflict with the interests of the Company. The Board routinely
considers actual and potential conflicts and a register is maintained by the Company Secretary and
reviewed on an annual basis.
A
Audit & Risk Committee
N
Nomination Committee
R
Remuneration Committee
Committee Chair
Rachel trained as a chemical engineer and
subsequently qualified as a Chartered Management
Accountant. Rachel currently works as Director of
Finance & Operations at the Newcastle upon Tyne
Royal Grammar School and previously held a variety of
financial positions with Smiths Group Plc from 2000 to
2008 and Cape Plc from 2008 to 2015, including
Group Financial Controller from August 2008 to
March 2014 and interim Chief Finance Officer from
September 2012 to December 2012. Rachel was Group
Financial Controller for LSL Property Services plc from
2016 to 2020. She is an experienced finance
professional with substantial listed company
experience as well as having IPO and M&A experience
both in the UK and internationally.
Skills and experience
Natalia is a senior business executive with a proven track
record of leadership across life sciences and technology
sectors and with a particular focus on HR and
remuneration matters. She brings extensive US, UK and
international operational and strategic experience, which
she gained from a range of FTSE and Fortune 100
companies. Most recently Natalia was Executive Vice
President and Chief Human Resources Officer for
Convatec Group, a FTSE 100 global medical technologies
business, where she also led the ESG strategy. Prior to
this she held senior human resources roles in Iron
Mountain and Smiths Group. Natalia’s executive career
has included leading global customer-centric businesses
through rapid scale up, large-scale M&A and spin-offs,
and operating in complex, highly regulated industries.
Skills and experience
Rachel Amey
Independent Non-Executive Director
Rachel was appointed a Non-Executive Director of the
Company on 1 March 2023 and was appointed Chair of
the Audit & Risk Committee on 21 August 2023. She was
appointed as interim Senior Independent Director
from 21 August 2023 to 31 January 2024 and was
re-appointed to this position permanently on
28 February 2024. From 21 August 2023 to 30 April
2024, she acted as interim Chair of the Remuneration
Committee.
Natalia Kozmina
Independent Non-Executive Director
Natalia was appointed a Non-Executive Director of the
Company on 22 April 2024. She was appointed Chair of
the Remuneration Committee from 1 May 2024.
N
R
A
R
N/A
External appointments
N/A
External appointments
48
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
The Board meets regularly, at least seven times
each year, and there is contact between meetings
to progress the Company’s business. Senior
executives below Board level are invited to attend
meetings as required to present and discuss matters
relating to their business areas and functions.
The Board aims to hold at least one Board meeting
at a subsidiary facility during the year. These visits
typically include meeting with staff and attending
presentations from management, which enables
particular focus on the regional considerations
associated with implementation of the Group’s
strategy. In the financial year, one Board meeting
was held at a subsidiary site, at CTP in Brno,
Czech Republic.
The Board has a formal schedule of matters
specifically reserved to it for decision, which
includes the development of corporate strategy
and the approval of annual budgets, major
capital expenditure and potential acquisitions
and disposals. Briefing papers are distributed
to Directors in advance of Board meetings.
All Directors participate in a full induction process
on joining the Board and subsequently receive
training and briefings, as appropriate. The Directors
are authorised to obtain independent advice
as required. The Board evaluation process also
considers specific training or development needs.
During the year, attendance by Directors at
scheduled meetings of the Board and its various
Committees was as follows
1
:
The full Board also meets when necessary to
discuss important ad hoc emerging issues that
require consideration between scheduled Board
meetings. In the year ended 31 March 2024, the
Board held a further 17 ad hoc Board meetings at
which not all Directors were required to be present.
Further, two ad hoc Audit & Risk Committee
meetings, two ad hoc Nomination Committee
meetings and five ad hoc Remuneration Committee
meetings/written resolutions were arranged.
For the majority of the year, the Senior Independent
Director was the only Non-Executive Director other
than the Chair. As a result, it was not necessary
to hold meetings with the other Non-Executive
Directors without the Chair being present.
Board evaluation
In accordance with Provision 21 of the 2018 Code, an
external evaluation of the Board’s performance and
that of its principal Committees was undertaken by
BoardClic, an independent third-party consultant,
and supervised by the Non-Executive Chair.
The 2018 Code requires that the Board of a FTSE
350 company or above should hold an externally
facilitated evaluation at least every three years.
Although not a requirement for a company of this
size, the Board feels that holding an externally
facilitated Board evaluation provides meaningful
results and provides the Board with an identification
of its strengths and any opportunities for
improvement, as well as highlighting any training and
development needs. Whilst the Board carried out an
externally facilitated evaluation in 2023, the Board
considered that repeating an independent review
process with the same provider would provide
greater opportunity for comparison and ensure
continued objectivity within the evaluation process.
The Board therefore re-engaged BoardClic
to undertake the external Board evaluation
exercise which took place towards the end of the
financial year.
The process reviewed a broad range of issues
including: the assessment and monitoring of the
Company’s strategy, the monthly Board meeting
agenda and information flow, the conduct of Board
meetings and the effectiveness of the discussion
and decision making within them, and governance.
There was also a review of the role and performance
of the Board Committees. The results of the
evaluation were collated by BoardClic including the
provision of external benchmarking. The review
identified a number of areas of strength including
the quality of contribution and debate, and the
awareness and consideration of key stakeholders in
decision making.
Nonetheless the review also identified some areas
where improvement was needed, in particular
in the control environments, both financial and
commercial, and people, where the business
faces challenges in recruitment, retention and
succession planning. These areas will form the basis
of objectives for improving the effectiveness of the
Board in the year ahead.
Board activities
Board meetings
Remuneration
Audit & Risk
Nomination
Scheduled meetings
attended
Scheduled meetings
attended
Scheduled meetings
attended
Scheduled meetings
attended
J Oatley
7/7
4/4
4/4
E Hutchinson
7/7
2/2
2/2
2/2
R Amey
7/7
4/4
5/5
4/4
J Templeman
1/1
1/1
1/1
1/1
F Doorenbosch
7/7
D Bedford
2/2
1.
N Kozmina joined the Board after the year end so is not included in the table.
49
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Board activities
continued
Engagement with the workforce
In previous years the Board had adopted a process
whereby each of its Non-Executive Directors was
to engage with the workforce at one of Carclo’s
largest UK operating sites and Head Office. As
a result of the significant changes on the Board,
this approach was deemed to be inappropriate
for this year and, instead, the Board relied on
the insights provided by the Executive Directors
and other senior management who attend Board
meetings. This was augmented by insights gained
from direct interaction with the workforce by the
Non-Executive Directors whenever they visited
sites. During the year, Non-Executive Directors
visited the following sites: Latrobe (PA, USA);
Export (PA, USA); Greensburg (PA, USA); Mitcham
(UK); Bruntons (UK); Brno (Czech Republic).
The Board will be revisiting its approach to future
workforce engagement.
Accountability and audit
Internal control
The Board confirms that it has a process for
identifying, evaluating and managing the principal
material business risks faced by the Group. This has
been in place throughout the year under review and
up to the date of approval of the annual report and
accounts. The process has been reviewed by the
Board. For the year ended 31 March 2024, the Board
has reviewed the effectiveness of the Group’s
system of internal control and risk management,
for which it retains overall responsibility.
The Audit & Risk Committee reviews the
effectiveness of the Group’s internal control
system, the need for an internal auditor and, if one
is appointed, the scope of work undertaken by
the internal auditor and its findings, the Group’s
accounts and the scope of work undertaken by the
external auditor. Reviews are undertaken regularly
and cover each accounting year and the period up
to the date of approval of the accounts.
The internal control system is designed to identify
and manage rather than eliminate the risk of failure
to achieve business objectives. Although no system
of internal control can provide absolute assurance
against material misstatement or loss, the Group’s
system is designed to provide reasonable assurance
that problems are identified on a timely basis and
dealt with appropriately.
The principal features of the Group’s internal control
structures can be summarised as follows:
a) Matters reserved for the Board
The Board holds regular meetings and has a number
of matters reserved for its approval, including major
capital expenditure and dividend policy. The Board
is responsible for overall Group strategy and for
approving all Group budgets and plans. Certain key
areas are subject to regular reporting to the Board.
The Audit & Risk Committee assists the Board in its
duties regarding the Group’s financial statements
and liaises with the external auditor.
b) Organisational structure
There is a clearly defined organisational structure
with lines of responsibility and delegation of
authority to divisional executive management.
Divisional responsibility is supplemented by Group
delegation of authorities and a finance manual which
dictates policies and practices applicable across the
Group and includes accounting, purchasing, capital
expenditure and codes of business conduct. These
internal controls are monitored by the Audit & Risk
Committee as part of its review of the effectiveness
of the Group’s system of internal control.
c) Financial control and reporting
There is a comprehensive Group-wide system of
planning and budgeting with frequent reporting of
results to each level of management as appropriate,
including regular reporting to the Board. Reviews
involving Executive Directors and divisional
executives include the annual identification and
assessment of business and financial risks inherent
in each division.
d) Internal auditor
For part of the year, Grant Thornton provided
an outsourced internal audit function, reporting
to the Audit & Risk Committee and working to
an agreed programme. During the year, on the
recommendation of the Chief Financial Officer,
this arrangement was terminated. The Audit & Risk
Committee undertook activities to monitor the
internal control environment throughout the year.
An explanation of the decision to terminate the
internal audit services provided by Grant Thornton
is provided on page 52.
Relations with shareholders
The Company recognises the importance of
communication with its shareholders. Regular
meetings are ordinarily held between Directors of
the Company and major institutional shareholders
including presentations after the Company’s
preliminary announcements of the half-year and
full-year results and discussions on performance
and strategy. Major shareholders have been
advised that the Non-Executive Chair and the
Non-Executive Directors are available for separate
discussions if required.
The Board uses the Annual General Meeting
("AGM") to communicate with private and
institutional investors and welcomes their
participation. The Board uses the Investor Meet
Company platform to broadcast the AGM and
other key presentations online, which enables
shareholders to join remotely, facilitating broader
engagement with the Company’s shareholder
base. Shareholders are also provided with the
opportunity to raise questions with the Board
during the meeting. Directors also make themselves
available before and after the AGM to talk informally
to shareholders, should they wish to do so. Voting
is by poll.
By order of the Board
Eric Hutchinson
Company Secretary
26 July 2024
50
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Audit & Risk Committee report
Dear Shareholder
I am pleased to present our Audit & Risk Committee
report for the year ended 31 March 2024. I joined
the Committee on 1 March 2023 and took over as
Chair of the Committee on 21 August 2023. For part
of the year, and to 21 April 2024, the Committee
did not have sufficient members and so the Board
fulfilled the Committee’s responsibilities, and
I chaired those parts of the Board’s meetings.
References to the Committee in this report are
to the Board on the occasions it was fulfilling the
Committee’s responsibilities.
The report provides an overview of the
Committee’s role and shows how our work
contributes to the success of the Group.
Annual statement by the Chair of the
Audit & Risk Committee
The Committee has continued its scrutiny of the
Group’s system of risk management and internal
controls, the robustness and integrity of the Group’s
financial reporting and the scope, effectiveness
and results of both the internal and external audit
processes.
The key responsibilities of the Committee are to:
review the appropriateness and application of
accounting policies and practices;
review financial statements, taking account of
accounting policies adopted and applicable
reporting requirements;
advise the Board on whether the financial
statements (half-yearly and annual report) give a
fair, balanced and understandable explanation of
the Group’s performance, business model and
strategy over the relevant period;
oversee the internal controls of the Group and
the effectiveness of those controls;
monitor and review the effectiveness of any
internal audit function;
oversee and review the Company’s risk
management systems and the effectiveness of
those systems;
review and challenge judgements of
management in relation to the financial
statements;
review all matters associated with the
appointment, terms, remuneration,
independence, objectivity and effectiveness of
the external auditor, including the provision of
non-audit services, and to review the scope and
results of the audit;
review the Group’s systems and controls for the
prevention of bribery;
review whistleblowing arrangements;
review the Committee’s terms of reference and
carry out an annual review of the performance of
the Committee; and
report to the Board on how the Committee has
discharged the aforementioned responsibilities.
The Committee will continue to keep its activities
under review in the light of developing regulations
and best practice.
Composition
The Committee comprises all the Non-Executive
Directors excluding the Non-Executive Chair and
usually meets at least four times annually.
During the year in question the Committee was
chaired by Eric Hutchinson until 21 August 2023,
when Rachel Amey was appointed as Chair following
Eric's appointment as Chief Financial Officer. Eric
is a Chartered Certified Accountant and former
group CFO of Spirent Communications plc and was
a committee member of the Financial Reporting
Review Panel for nine years. Rachel is a Chartered
Management Accountant and is currently Director
of Finance & Operations at the Newcastle upon
Tyne Royal Grammar School, having previously held
a variety of senior financial positions with Smiths
Group plc, Cape plc and LSL Property Services plc.
As such, the Board considers that both Eric
and Rachel have recent and relevant financial
experience. The Board is also satisfied that the
Committee as a whole has relevant sectoral
competence as required by the 2018 Code.
Meetings
Only Committee members are entitled to attend a
meeting. However, the Non-Executive Chair, Chief
Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer are
normally invited to attend meetings.
Five scheduled and two ad hoc meetings were held
during the year, two of which were scheduled to
coincide with the Board’s review and approval of
the Group’s half-year results statement and of its
preliminary full-year results announcement. Three
of these meetings were technically conducted as
part of the Board meeting as the Committee had
insufficient members.
Rachel Amey
Chair of the Audit & Risk Committee
51
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Audit & Risk Committee report
continued
Internal control and risk
management
The Group has an existing system of internal
controls and a risk management framework;
however, during the year we have identified certain
internal control weaknesses and, as such, we have
reviewed our process and instituted a robust
programme of internal control improvement.
This includes a continuous review process, at both
Executive and Board level, of all material areas
including, but not limited to, financial, operational
and compliance controls.
On behalf of the Board, all these activities are
periodically reviewed by the Committee and their
effectiveness assessed through oral and written
reports from both internal (when appointed) and
external auditors as well as management.
The Committee maintains a focus on continually
improving both the internal control and risk
management environment.
The Group has suffered Cyber-attacks which
were successful because staff members
accepted the inbound emails and follow-on
telephone calls as genuine. As such, the attacks
were social engineering frauds run by criminals
(“Threat Actors”) who persuaded staff members
to act. Internal control procedures have been
strengthened to ensure segregation of duties and
implement additional internal checks and reviews.
Cyber security software has been enhanced, with
active 24/7 international monitoring by Sophos.
Cyber awareness training has been repeated and
enhanced for all staff in finance roles and with
ongoing cyber security annual training more widely.
Further details of the Group’s emerging and
principal risks and uncertainties, together with the
mitigating actions, are set out on pages 37 to 42 of
the annual report and accounts.
Internal audit
The Committee reviews annually the arrangements
for internal audit. Grant Thornton UK LLP provided
the outsourced internal audit function for part
of the year. During its appointment, the internal
auditor monitored and reported on the system
of internal control and worked to an agreed
programme. This included reporting on the
cyber-attack, identifying weaknesses in controls,
and strengthening cyber software detection and
prevention measures. The internal audit plan was set
in the context of a developing assurance reporting
process, was flexed to deal with any change in the
risk profile of the Group and was approved by the
Committee.
As part of the review previously mentioned, the
requirement for an internal audit function was
considered and, on recommendation of the Chief
Financial Officer, the contract with Grant Thornton
was cancelled in favour of an internal control
function; this will remain under review.
Significant issues related to
financial statements
The Committee reviews accounting papers
prepared by management that provide details
of significant financial reporting issues, together
with reports from the external auditor prepared in
conjunction with the interim and full-year results,
and assesses the following, amongst other matters:
the quality and acceptability of accounting
policies and practices;
the clarity of the disclosures and compliance
with financial reporting standards and
relevant financial and governance reporting
requirements;
material areas in which significant judgements or
estimates have been applied or there has been
discussion with the external auditor;
whether the annual report, taken as a whole, is
fair, balanced and understandable and provides
the information necessary for shareholders to
assess the Company’s performance, business
model and strategy; and
any correspondence from regulators in relation
to our financial reporting.
These matters are also discussed with the external
auditor together with any other matters that the
auditor brings to the Committee’s attention which,
in the year to 31 March 2024, included the impact of
changes in accounting standards and other financial
reporting disclosures, impairment, goodwill, going
concern and reviewing the appropriateness of
accounting policies.
In addition to the above, the Committee supports
the Board in completing its assessment of the
adoption of the going concern basis of preparing
the financial statements. The Directors prepare a
Viability Statement concerning the prospects of the
Company, as required by the 2018 Code. During the
financial year, the Committee reviewed the approach
taken by the Directors in preparing the Viability
Statement with due regard for wider market practice
and developing guidance. As a result of that review,
the Committee was satisfied that the approach
adopted was appropriate. The viability statement
for the financial year is included on page 43.
The Committee also considered changes in
corporate governance and the need for the annual
report to be fair, balanced and understandable and
to contain sufficient information on the Group’s
performance.
The significant judgements considered by the
Committee where there was potential risk of material
misstatement were:
the IAS 19 pensions position. The Company
has a defined benefit pension scheme with
liabilities of approximately £130.4m and assets
of approximately £93.2m as at 31 March 2024,
resulting in a net retirement benefit obligation
of £37.2m. These numbers are sensitive to the
main assumptions used to calculate the deficit
or surplus on the scheme and the Committee
seeks confirmation that these assumptions are
appropriate;
the Group balance sheet value of goodwill. The
balance of goodwill on the Group balance sheet
as at 31 March 2024 is £22.0m. The Committee
seeks to gain assurance through management’s
review of “recoverable amount” being the higher
of “value in use” and “fair value less costs of
disposal” as the approved and selected method in
testing goodwill valuation for impairment and that
there are no potential impairment or recoverability
issues;
impairment of other assets. Where there
has been an "indicator" of impairment, the
Committee seeks to gain assurance through
the work undertaken by Group management
when determining the level of impairment and
estimates therein;
revenue recognition on certain customer
contracts. The Committee has supported
management’s methodology and application of
revenue recognition applying IFRS 15 guidelines
across its portfolio of contracts;
valuation of investments in subsidiary
undertakings in the Company balance sheet.
Investments in subsidiary undertakings total
£77.5m in the Company balance sheet.
The Committee seeks to gain assurance through
management’s review of “recoverable amount”
being the higher of “value in use” and “fair value
less costs to sell” as the approved and selected
method in testing investments in subsidiary
undertakings for impairment;
52
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Significant issues related to financial
statements
continued
going concern. The Committee supported the
Board in its assessment of the adoption of the
going concern basis of preparing the financial
statements. As a result of that review, the Board
was satisfied that the approach adopted was
appropriate. A summary of the approach and
work undertaken by management is disclosed in
note 1 – basis of preparation: going concern on
page 93;
classification of exceptional items. Certain
items during the period have been presented as
exceptional as defined in the Group accounting
policy. Alternative performance measures
such as “underlying operating profit” have
been defined and applied to identify a clear
distinction between underlying performance
and financial performance after accounting for
exceptional items; and
leases. Judgement has been applied by
management when determining the level of
expected certainty that a break option within a
lease will, or will not, be exercised. Management
also applies judgement when determining the
imputed interest rate in the calculation of lease
liability at inception. The Committee seeks to
gain assurance from management’s review and
agrees with the judgement applied.
Other areas of judgement reviewed and agreed by
the Committee, where it concluded there was not a
risk of material misstatement, included:
recognition of deferred tax assets for the Group
and Company. Deferred tax assets are only
recognised to the extent that it is considered
there are sufficient taxable profits in the UK
against which to offset future tax deductions.
No deferred tax assets have been recognised
in the UK entities as the central costs are
considered likely to offset the trading profits.
The Committee agreed with this approach;
borrowings. Judgement has been applied by
management to determine that the modification
to the Group’s existing borrowings during the
period was non-substantial, and that interest
payable on borrowings using an approximation
of the effective interest rate was not materially
different from that if effective interest rate had
been applied. This view is supported by the
Committee; and
provisions. The Committee supports the level
of provisions for restructuring and legacy
health-related claims determined appropriate by
management, which was supported by external
advice where necessary.
The Committee considered whether the FY24
annual report taken as a whole was fair, balanced
and understandable and whether it provided the
necessary information for shareholders to assess
the Company’s position, performance, business
model and strategy. The Committee is satisfied
that, taken as a whole, the annual report is fair,
balanced and understandable.
External audit
The Committee has responsibility for making
a recommendation on the appointment,
re-appointment and removal of the external auditor.
The external auditor’s appointment is reviewed
periodically, and the lead audit partner is rotated at
least once every five years.
The Committee last initiated a tender process in
December 2019.
Shareholders formally approved Forvis Mazars
LLP's appointment at the 2020 AGM, and their
re-appointment as external auditor will be proposed
to shareholders at the forthcoming AGM.
The Committee reviews reports from the external
auditor as part of the annual audit process. These
cover the scope, approach and results of the
external audit and include the procedures adopted
for safeguarding the firm’s independence and
objectivity. The quality and content of these
reports, together with the performance and
behaviour of the audit teams during the exercise of
their duties, inform the Committee’s assessment of
audit effectiveness.
The Committee has an established policy for
determining the non-audit services that the external
auditor can provide where justified on grounds of
cost and related expertise and where not impacted
by potential conflicts of interest. The Committee
has also adopted a policy regarding the
employment of former employees of the external
auditor. This allows the Committee to satisfy itself
that auditor objectivity and independence are
safeguarded. The analysis of audit and non-audit
fees for the year to 31 March 2024 and the nature
of the non-audit services provided appear in
note 6 in the accounts. Non-audit fees totalled
£41.5k. No approval shall be given to any non-audit
services prohibited under the amendments to the
Companies Act 2006 and the FRC Revised Ethical
Standard 2019.
Rachel Amey
Chair of the Audit & Risk Committee
26 July 2024
Audit & Risk Committee report
continued
53
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Dear Shareholder
I am pleased to present our Nomination Committee
report for the year ended 31 March 2024. The report
provides an overview of the Committee’s role and
shows how our work contributes to the success of
the Group.
Composition
The Committee comprises all of the Non-Executive
Directors. It is chaired by the Non-Executive Chair,
Joe Oatley.
Role of the Committee
The Committee is responsible for regularly
reviewing the composition of the Board including
its structure, size and diversity. It is also responsible
for succession planning for the Board and senior
management positions, as well as identifying
and recommending appropriate candidates for
membership of the Board when vacancies arise.
The Committee has applied the 2018 Code
provisions in developing the Group’s policies
on succession planning and appointments.
In considering an appointment, the Committee
evaluates the balance of skills, knowledge,
independence and experience of the Board and
prepares a description of the role and capabilities
required for a particular appointment. Internal
candidates are considered where appropriate.
The Committee considers the Company’s initiatives
for Board succession planning, together with the
training and development of employees with the
ability to progress to senior positions in the Group.
The Board believes that these initiatives improve
the probability of the appointment of internal
candidates to key executive positions and thereby
enable the Group to fulfil its strategic objectives.
The Committee also reviews the time required
from each Non-Executive Director and any
other significant commitments they may have.
The FY24 review found the Non-Executives’
time commitments to be sufficient to discharge
their responsibilities effectively. Based on
recommendations from the Committee, Directors
submit themselves for election at the AGM
following their appointment and thereafter
annually for re-election in accordance with
good governance.
Nomination Committee activities
in FY24
The Committee had four scheduled and two ad
hoc meetings during the year. The key deliverables
of the Committee, some of which are discussed
further below, were:
review of the skills, knowledge and composition
of the Board;
recruitment of an additional Non-Executive
Director;
oversight of the external Board evaluation
process, including evaluation of the Committee’s
performance;
a review of the Committee’s terms of reference;
Board succession planning; and
review of the Nomination Committee report for
inclusion in the annual report and accounts.
Board skills, knowledge and
composition
A key responsibility of the Committee is to ensure
that the Board maintains a balance of skills,
knowledge and experience appropriate to the
long-term operation of the business and delivery
of the strategy. As in past years, the Committee has
kept under review the composition of the Board,
including considering whether:
the Board contains the right mix of skills,
experience and diversity;
the Board has an appropriate balance of
Executive Directors and Non-Executive
Directors; and
the Non-Executive Directors are able to commit
sufficient time to the Company to discharge
their responsibilities effectively.
While the Committee remained satisfied that the
Board had a good mix of skills and experience, it
considered that it could benefit from additional
expertise and experience. It therefore commenced
a process to recruit an additional Non-Executive
Director.
The Committee supported the appointment of
Eric Hutchinson as Chief Financial Officer when
David Bedford stepped down. It particularly
identified the benefit of Eric’s existing knowledge of
the Group and his extensive previous experience in
similar roles.
As a result of Eric’s move to the Chief Financial
Officer role, the need to recruit at least one
additional Non-Executive Director became more
important, to ensure an appropriate balance of
independence on the Board. The Committee
identified Jon Templeman to join the Board, which
he did on 1 February 2024 before stepping down
on 27 February 2024. The Committee had also
identified Natalia Kozmina to join the Board, which
she did after the year end, on 22 April 2024.
All the Directors have many years of experience,
gained from a broad range of organisations.
They collectively bring a range of expertise and
knowledge of different business sectors to Board
deliberations, which encourages constructive,
challenging and innovative discussions.
Nomination Committee report
Joe Oatley
Chair of the Nomination Committee
54
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Selection of new Directors – process
The Committee follows a formal process for the
recruitment of new Directors, both Executive and
Non-Executive. When considering candidates
for appointment as Directors of the Company,
the Committee, in conjunction with the Board,
drafts a detailed job specification and candidate
profile. In drafting this, consideration is given to the
existing experience, knowledge and background
of Board members as well as the strategic and
business objectives of the Group. Once a detailed
specification has been agreed with the Board, the
Committee then works with an appropriate external
search and selection agency to identify candidates
of the appropriate calibre. An initial candidate
shortlist is agreed with the selected agency.
The agency is required to work to a specification
that includes the strong desirability of producing a
full list of candidates who meet the essential criteria,
whilst reflecting the benefits of diversity.
Appointment of new Non-Executive
Directors
Each Non-Executive Director is appointed for an
initial term of three years. The term can be renewed
by mutual agreement if the Board is satisfied with
the Director’s performance and commitment and
a resolution to re-elect at the appropriate AGM is
successful. The Board will not normally extend the
aggregate period of service of any independent
Non-Executive Director beyond nine years.
On 21 August 2023, Eric Hutchinson was appointed
as Chief Financial Officer and an Executive Director,
having served as a Non-Executive Director since
January 2021. Rachel Amey, a Non-Executive
Director, was appointed as Chair of the Audit & Risk
Committee, interim Senior Independent Director
and interim Chair of the Remuneration Committee.
Role specifications were drawn up for the
recruitment of two Non-Executive Directors: one
to be appointed as Senior Independent Director
and the other to include chairing the Remuneration
Committee.
An external search consultancy, Lygon Group,
was engaged to identify potential candidates
with the skillsets sought while also having in mind
the diversity of the Board. From the initial list of
potential candidates, shortlists were identified
for interview by the Chair of the Board. Preferred
candidates were then met by all the other members
of the Board before offers were made. Lygon
Group is an advocate for diverse boards and
management teams, and actively promotes and
encourages diversity in all forms. It is signed up
to the Voluntary Code of Conduct for Executive
Search Firms in line with the Board DEI Policy and is
a signatory of the UK Government Voluntary Code
of Conduct for Executive Search Firms in respect
of diversity best practice. Lygon Group has no
connection with the Company, the Board or any
individual Director beyond that ordinarily expected
through recruitment processes.
On 1 February 2024, Jon Templeman was
appointed as a Non-Executive Director and as
Senior Independent Director. He stepped down
on 27 February 2024 and Rachel Amey was
appointed as Senior Independent Director from
28 February 2024.
On 22 April 2024, Natalia Kozmina was appointed
as a Non-Executive Director. She took on the
role of Chair of the Remuneration Committee
on 1 May 2024.
Induction of new Directors
All new Directors go through a tailored induction
process. Following appointment, each Director
receives a formal induction, linked to their individual
experience and role on the Board, to familiarise
them with their duties and our business operations,
risk and governance arrangements. The induction
programme, which is co-ordinated by the
company secretarial team, may include briefings
on regulatory matters, our strategy and business
model, our history, as well as meetings with senior
management in key areas of the business. These are
supplemented by induction materials such as recent
Board papers and minutes, governance matters,
and relevant policies.
Newly appointed Directors may also meet the
Company’s external auditor, brokers and advisors.
It is usual, as part of a Director’s induction, for
comprehensive site visits to be undertaken.
Whilst it has been possible for Non-Executive
Directors to visit UK sites, due to financial
constraints on the business it has not been possible
for the Non-Executive Directors to visit sites
elsewhere around the globe. However, both Frank
Doorenbosch and Eric Hutchinson (since their
appointment to an Executive position) regularly visit
many of the worldwide sites.
Board and Committee evaluation
The Board recognises that it needs to monitor
performance of both the Board and its
Committees. This is achieved through the annual
performance evaluation, full induction of new
Board members and ongoing Board development
activities. The Committee oversaw a review of the
Board’s performance, the details and conclusions of
which are described on page 49.
The process included a review of the performance
of the Non-Executive Chair and other
Non-Executive Directors. The Senior Independent
Director reviewed and considered those parts of
the Board evaluation associated with the Chair’s
performance.
Renewal and re-election
If the Board appoints a Director, that Director must
retire at the first AGM following their appointment.
That Director may, if they so wish, put themselves
forward for election. In accordance with the 2018
Code and the Company’s articles of association,
the Company will continue its practice to propose
all Directors for annual re-election. Accordingly,
all Directors will retire at the forthcoming AGM
and, being eligible, will offer themselves up for
re-election.
The Committee is satisfied that, following the
evaluation and review of the Board described
above, the Directors offering themselves for
re-election continue to demonstrate commitment,
management and business expertise in their
particular role and continue to perform effectively.
The re-election respectively of each Director is
recommended by the Board. Further information
on the service contracts for the Executive Directors
and letters of appointment for the Non-Executive
Directors are set out in the Directors’ remuneration
report on pages 65 and 66.
Diversity
The Board recognises the benefits to the Group of
diversity in the workforce and in the composition
of the Board, understanding that diversity of
thought is an important element in maintaining
Board effectiveness and creating competitive
advantage. Diversity of skills, background,
knowledge, international and industry experience,
gender and ethnicity will be taken into consideration
when seeking to make new appointments to the
Board and its Committees. All appointments will be
made on merit, taking into account suitability for
the role, composition and balance of the Board to
ensure that the Company has the appropriate mix
of skills, experience, independence and knowledge,
ensuring that any future appointment has the right
competencies and knowledge to enhance the
Board and workforce.
The Board recognises the link between diversity
and performance and will always consider this when
taking decisions regarding appointments and in
succession planning.
The Board will always consider suitably qualified
applicants for roles from as wide a range of
candidates as possible, with no restrictions on age,
gender, religion, ethnic background or current
employment, but whose competencies and
knowledge will enhance the Board.
The Nomination Committee and the Board
carefully considered the diversity-related reporting
requirements set out in the Listing Rules and
recommended by the FTSE Women Leaders
Review. As at 31 March 2024, the Company had
not met the Listing Rules targets set out under LR
9.8.6R (9), that at least 40% of our Board should
be women and at least one individual on its Board
of Directors should be from a minority ethnic
background.
Nomination Committee report
continued
55
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Diversity
continued
While the Directors are committed to a diverse
organisation, which includes the Board, we will
continue to appoint on merit, based on the
skills and experience required for membership,
while considering all forms of diversity, as well as
independence.
As at 31 March 2024, the Board comprised 25%
women. As at the date of this report, the Board
comprises 40% women, therefore meeting the
targets set by the Listing Rules.
As at the date of this report, the Senior
Independent Director is female.
During FY24 and as at the date of this report,
no members of the Board were from a minority
ethnic background. This was taken into account
during the recruitment processes described
above but no suitable candidates from a minority
ethnic background were identified. It continues
to be a focus when new appointments are
made to the Board and we ask that search firms
present a diverse pool of candidates throughout
the search process.
Committee priorities for FY25
Looking to the year ahead, the Committee will:
oversee the annual Board evaluation process;
place further focus on succession planning,
particularly in relation to diversity; and
look to appoint and onboard a new
Non-Executive Director.
Joe Oatley
Chair of the Nomination Committee
26 July 2024
Nomination Committee report
continued
Board gender representation (as at 31 March 2024)
Number of Board
members
Percentage of the
Board
Number of
senior positions
on the Board (CEO,
CFO, SID and Chair)
Number in executive
management
Percentage of
executive
management
1
Men
2
50
2
5
71
Women
1
25
1
2
29
Other categories
Not specified/prefer not to say
1
25
1
1.
Executive management relates to members of the Group Executive Committee but does not include the Chief Executive Officer or Chief Financial Officer, as they are included
as Board members. Data has been collected as part of the annual year-end process, whereby the Board and the executive management team received forms for self-completion.
The declaration forms included, for all individuals whose data is being reported, the same questions relating to ethnicity and gender. The data is used for statistical reporting
purposes only.
Ethnicity representation (as at 31 March 2024)
Number of Board
members
Percentage of the
Board
Number of
senior positions
on the Board (CEO,
CFO, SID and Chair)
Number in executive
management
Percentage of
executive
management
1
White British or other White (including minority-white groups)
2
50
2
4
57
Mixed/multiple ethnic groups
Asian/Asian British
Black/African/Caribbean/Black British
Other ethnic group, including Arab
Not specified/prefer not to say
2
50
2
3
43
1.
Executive management relates to members of the Group Executive Committee but does not include the Chief Executive Officer or Chief Financial Officer, as they are included
as Board members. Data has been collected as part of the annual year-end process, whereby the Board and the executive management team received forms for self-completion.
The declaration forms included, for all individuals whose data is being reported, the same questions relating to ethnicity and gender. The data is used for statistical reporting
purposes only.
56
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Annual Statement
Dear Shareholder
I am pleased to present the Directors’ remuneration
report (the “Report”) for the year ended
31 March 2024.
I was delighted to take on the role of Chair of
the Remuneration Committee from 1 May 2024.
I would like to thank Rachel Amey for her careful
stewardship of the Committee before my
appointment. While I was not appointed to the
Board (and, by extension, the Committee) during
the year under review, I have discussed the work
of the Committee with my fellow Non-Executive
Directors and can confirm my support for the
remuneration framework and the decisions taken
by the Committee during the year.
The Report has three sections:
the Annual Statement, which summarises and
explains the major decisions and changes in
respect of Directors’ remuneration;
the Directors’ Remuneration Policy (the “Policy”)
to be submitted for approval at the 2024 AGM;
and
the Annual Report on Remuneration, providing
details of the remuneration earned by the
Company’s Directors in relation to the year
ended 31 March 2024 and how the Policy will
be operated for the year to 31 March 2025.
Leadership changes
The Committee supported the work associated with
the changes in Group leadership during the year,
including David Bedford stepping down as Chief
Financial Officer and Eric Hutchinson’s appointment
in his place.
FY24 – performance and pay
Remuneration alignment to strategy
The Remuneration Committee rewards Carclo's
executives in full alignment to Group strategy and
based on the performance and the value created
for the Group’s shareholders.
Salary
An internal review concluded that basic salary
for Executive Directors would not be increased
during FY24.
Annual bonus
F Doorenbosch and E Hutchinson participated in
the FY24 annual bonus scheme; however, due to
the results, they will not receive a bonus for the
period. D Bedford was not entitled to continue his
participation in the FY24 annual bonus scheme
following his departure.
The FY24 annual bonus scheme was focused on
simple and transparent measures of performance
against Group underlying EBIT. Accordingly, this
Report should be read in conjunction with the
strategic report.
Long-Term Incentive Plan (“LTIP”)
As explained in prior years, the current LTIP
scheme, the Carclo plc Performance Share Plan
2017 (“PSP”), was reviewed in 2021 and it was
determined that it continued to meet the current
needs of the Company.
The PSP is designed to reward delivery of the
Company’s strategy and long-term goals, and
to help align the interests of executives and
shareholders. Specifically, awards granted in
FY24 to the Executive Directors and other senior
management are intended to motivate and
reward the leadership team for the execution of
a successful turnaround for the Group.
Under the current Remuneration Policy, which was
approved by shareholders in 2021, the Company
can grant awards of up to 100% of salary in normal
circumstances, and up to 200% of salary in
exceptional circumstances. However, noting the
Company’s share price performance in FY24, it
was recognised that awards of this magnitude were
neither realistic nor sensible. Balancing shareholder
interests with the need to motivate and retain the
senior talent required to deliver the strategy, the
Committee approved the grant of awards over a
total of 3,315,000 shares in FY24 – equating to just
under 5% of the issued share capital, and within the
10% authority available under the scheme rules.
These awards will cover the next three-year period,
i.e. no awards are expected to be made in FY25 or
FY26 unless the Board believes it is necessary to
recruit a new key hire. This equates to an effective
annual dilution of around 1.6%.
The awards, whilst representing a large percentage
of the Company’s issued share capital, are
significantly lower than the limits permitted under
the PSP. The total award level respects dilution
limits, and the individual award levels are considered
to be motivational given the potential value at the
maximum vesting level.
Directors’ remuneration report
Natalia Kozmina
Chair of the Remuneration Committee
57
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Directors’ remuneration report
continued
Annual Statement
continued
FY24 – performance and pay
continued
Long-Term Incentive Plan (“LTIP”)
continued
As for awards granted in FY23, the performance
measures for the awards to vest are equally
weighted between EPS and absolute TSR targets.
The absolute TSR target was set at the time of
grant, taking into account the preceding share
price and ensuring that the target is sufficiently
challenging to deliver material shareholder return.
Accordingly, awards were granted in FY24 to
F Doorenbosch, E Hutchinson and other key
executives under the terms of the PSP. Details of
the awards granted to Executive Directors and the
performance measures are provided on page 71.
Implementation of the
Remuneration Policy for FY25
The current Policy was approved by shareholders at
the 2021 AGM. The Committee reviewed the Policy
and decided it was working effectively. Accordingly,
the updated Policy to be presented for approval
at the 2024 AGM has not materially changed from
that approved in 2021. Changes proposed are to
improve its operation, or to reflect recent trends in
market practice and investor guidelines.
Subject to shareholder approval at the 2024 AGM,
the following is the proposed implementation of the
Policy for FY25:
there will not be an increase in base salaries
for the Executive Directors;
there will not be an increase in the base fees
for the Non-Executive Directors;
the structure and quantum of the annual bonus
for Executive Directors is considered to be
broadly appropriate and aligned to shareholders’
interests. For FY25 the annual bonus potential
will continue to be based on demanding financial
targets; and
there will not be any LTIP awards granted under
the PSP.
Alignment with shareholders
The Remuneration Committee is mindful of the
interests of the Group’s shareholders and is keen
to ensure a demonstrable link between reward and
value creation. In addition to the matters set out
in this Report, alignment and shareholder interest
is further demonstrated by the operation of share
ownership guidelines and the inclusion of malus
and clawback provisions for both annual bonus and
LTIP awards.
Most importantly, however, is the clear link between
executive remuneration and the performance of
the business as a whole. The Committee seeks
to ensure the executive remuneration “mix” is in
line with the Policy and in the best interests of the
shareholders and the Company.
The Group acknowledges the support it has
received in the past from its shareholders and
hopes that this will continue.
Natalia Kozmina
Chair of the Remuneration Committee
26 July 2024
Compliance statement
This Report has been prepared in accordance
with the requirements of the Companies Act
2006 (as amended), the Large and Medium
Sized Companies and Groups (Accounts and
Reports) Regulations 2008 (as amended),
the UK Listing Authority Listing Rules
and applies the principles set out in the
2018 Code.
The following parts of the Annual Report
on Remuneration are audited: the single
total figure of remuneration for Directors,
including annual bonus and LTIP outcomes
for FY24; scheme interests awarded during
the year; and Directors’ shareholdings and
share interests.
Remuneration payments and payments for
loss of office can only be made to Directors if
they are consistent with the approved Policy
or otherwise approved by ordinary resolution
of the Company’s shareholders.
58
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Directors' Remuneration Policy
The proposed Policy for Directors is set out below, with notes explaining the changes from the Policy approved in 2021. It is subject to shareholder approval at the 2024 AGM on 5 September 2024 and will be
effective from that date for a period of up to three years. It has not materially changed from the Policy approved in 2021, with only minor changes to improve its operation or to reflect recent trends in market practice
and investor guidelines.
In developing the Policy, the Committee has kept in mind the requirements of the UK Corporate Governance Code 2018 for clarity, simplicity, risk, predictability, proportionality and alignment to culture.
Directors’ remuneration report
continued
2024 Policy table
Element of remuneration
Salary
Purpose and link to strategy
To provide an appropriate, competitive level of basic fixed income avoiding excessive risk arising from over-reliance on variable income.
To attract and retain Executive Directors of suitable calibre to deliver business performance.
Reflects individual skills and experience and role.
Operation
Reviewed annually by the Committee, normally effective 1 April.
The review is informed by individual experience and performance, Company performance, wider pay levels and salary increases across the Group, and relevant pay data for similar roles at
companies with similar characteristics and at sector comparators.
Maximum
No prescribed maximum annual increase, but will normally be no higher than the general increase for the wider workforce.
In exceptional circumstances, the Committee may decide to award a higher increase for Executive Directors, for example, an increase in the scale, scope or responsibility of the role, development
of the individual within the role, to take account of relevant market movements, and/or on the appointment of new Executive Directors.
Performance targets
N/A
Element of remuneration
Other benefits
Purpose and link to strategy
Provides market-competitive benefits as part of the overall remuneration package, supporting the attraction and retention of Executive Directors of suitable calibre to deliver business
performance.
Provides insured benefits to support the individual and their family during periods of ill health, accident or death.
Operation
Benefits provided through third-party providers on a market-related basis.
May include car allowance, life insurance, private medical insurance and permanent disability insurance. Other benefits may be provided where appropriate, for example, in line with local market practice
where an Executive Director is outside the UK.
Maximum
Benefits may vary by role and individual circumstance and are reviewed periodically. Benefits are not anticipated to exceed 10% of salary over the next three financial years. The Committee retains
the discretion to approve a higher cost in exceptional circumstances (e.g. relocation) or in circumstances where factors outside of the Company’s control have materially changed (e.g. increases in
medical premiums).
Performance targets
N/A
No significant change to 2021 policy.
No significant change to 2021 policy.
59
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Directors’ remuneration report
continued
Directors' Remuneration Policy
continued
2024 Policy table
continued
Element of remuneration
Bonus
Purpose and link to strategy
Incentivises annual delivery of short-term financial and strategic business goals and business strategy.
Maximum bonus payable only for achieving demanding targets.
Operation
Performance measures, targets and weightings are set for the financial year. Payments are calculated based on an assessment of performance against those targets by the Committee.
At least 33% of any bonus earned will be deferred for two years.
Not pensionable.
Clawback and malus provisions apply. Details of when these may be applied are set out in the notes below.
Maximum
100% of salary.
In normal circumstances, the CEO’s opportunity will be 100% of salary with other Executive Directors on 75% of salary.
Performance targets
Performance is assessed on an annual basis against relevant financial and, where relevant, personal or strategic objectives. The Committee sets the performance measures and weightings
each year according to strategic priorities, although the weighting on financial measures will be at least 75%.
Any bonus for personal or strategic performance is payable only if, in the opinion of the Committee, there was an improvement in the underlying financial and operational performance of
the Group during that financial year.
The Committee has discretion to adjust the performance conditions to ensure that payments accurately reflect business conditions over the performance period. However, such discretion
may be used only in circumstances where the Committee considers the amended performance conditions to be:
fair and reasonable in the circumstances; and
a more appropriate measure of performance and not materially less challenging than the original condition would have been.
The Committee also has discretion to adjust (including to nil) the formulaic outcome where it considers that:
the outcome does not reflect the underlying financial or non-financial performance of the participant or the Group over the relevant period;
the outcome is not appropriate in the context of circumstances that were unexpected or unforeseen at the award date;
there exists any other reason why an adjustment is appropriate; and/or
it is appropriate to do so, taking into account a range of factors, including the management of risk and good governance and, in all cases, the experience of shareholders.
Element of remuneration
Pension
Purpose and link to strategy
Provides market-competitive post-retirement benefits.
Operation
Executive Directors may receive a contribution to an HMRC-approved personal pension arrangement or a payment in lieu of pension contributions.
Maximum
Executive Directors may receive a maximum employer contribution to pension in line with that offered to the UK general workforce.
Performance targets
N/A
No significant change to 2021 policy.
No significant change to 2021 policy.
60
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Directors’ remuneration report
continued
Element of remuneration
Long-Term Incentive Plan ("LTIP")
Purpose and link to strategy
Incentivises delivery of longer-term financial and strategic objectives.
To reward and retain successful leadership, reward delivery of the Company strategy and long-term goals, and to align executive and shareholder interests.
Operation
Nil cost options or conditional awards usually granted annually, which normally vest after three years subject to continued service and performance targets. The Committee sets performance
targets for each performance cycle that it considers to be appropriately stretching.
Awards made to Executive Directors will be subject to a “holding period”, which prohibits them from selling the shares subject to the awards (other than to fund any exercise price payable
or pay any tax liability arising on vesting and limited exceptional circumstances, such as death) for five years following the date of grant.
Clawback and malus provisions apply. Details of when these may be applied are set out in the notes below.
Maximum
100% of salary normal limit.
200% of salary exceptional limit – e.g. recruitment, “buyout” awards.
Performance targets
Performance is measured over three years. The Committee sets the performance measures and weightings for each grant to ensure they are linked to the delivery of Company strategy.
The Committee has discretion to adjust the performance conditions to ensure that payments accurately reflect business conditions over the performance period. However, such discretion
may only be used in circumstances where the Committee considers the amended performance conditions to be:
fair and reasonable in the circumstances; and
a more appropriate measure of performance and not materially less challenging than the original condition would have been.
The Committee also has discretion to adjust (including to nil) the formulaic outcome where it considers that:
the outcome does not reflect the underlying financial or non-financial performance of the participant or the Group over the relevant period;
the outcome is not appropriate in the context of circumstances that were unexpected or unforeseen at the award date;
there exists any other reason why an adjustment is appropriate; and/or
it is appropriate to do so, taking into account a range of factors, including the management of risk and good governance and, in all cases, the experience of shareholders.
No significant change to 2021 policy.
Directors' Remuneration Policy
continued
2024 Policy table
continued
61
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Directors’ remuneration report
continued
Element of remuneration
Share ownership guidelines
Purpose and link to strategy
To align the interests of executives with those of shareholders.
Operation
Executive Directors are required to build and maintain a shareholding equivalent to one year’s base salary through the retention of vested share awards or through open market purchases until the
guideline is met.
The Committee will monitor progress against this requirement on an annual basis.
A reasonable time limit to achieve the required shareholding is normally considered to be five years from appointment as an Executive Director (subject to the Committee’s discretion where
personal circumstances dictate).
Until such time as the shareholding guideline is met, Executive Directors will usually be required to retain:
50% of any shares received (post-tax deductions) by them following the vesting of any equity-settled incentive for the first five years of their appointment; and
75% of any shares received (post-tax deductions) by them following the vesting of any equity-settled incentive thereafter.
Departing Executive Directors are required to hold shares received following vesting of any share-based incentive award up to 100% of salary, or their actual shareholding so arising if lower,
for two years after leaving.
Performance targets
N/A
Element of remuneration
Non-Executive Directors‘ fees and expenses
Purpose and link to strategy
To attract individuals with the required range of skills and experience.
Reflects time commitments and responsibilities of each role.
Reflects market-competitive fees.
Operation
Non-Executive Directors receive a basic fee for their respective roles. Additional fees are paid to Non-Executive Directors for chairing the Audit & Risk Committee and Remuneration Committee,
as well as for performing the role of Senior Independent Director.
Reviewed annually by the Board, normally effective 1 April. The review is informed by the required time commitment and responsibilities, and relevant fee data for sector comparators and FTSE-listed
companies of similar size and complexity. Additional fees may be paid on an exceptional basis if the time commitment in any one year is significantly in excess of that normally expected.
All fees are paid in cash.
Non-Executive Directors are reimbursed for reasonable expenses, for example, travel and accommodation for business purposes. Any tax arising on those expenses is settled directly by the
Company. To the extent that these are deemed taxable benefits, they will be included in the Annual Report on Remuneration, as required.
Maximum
No prescribed maximum annual increase, but it is expected that fee increases will normally be no higher than general salary increase for the wider workforce. However, in the event that there is a
material misalignment with the market or change in complexity, responsibility or time commitment required to fulfil a Non-Executive Director role, the Board has discretion to make an appropriate
adjustment to the fee level.
The Company’s articles of association stipulate the maximum amount that may be paid in fees to Directors, specifically excluding any salary, remuneration or other amount payable pursuant to
other provisions within the articles of association.
Performance targets
N/A
No significant change to 2021 policy.
No significant change to 2021 policy.
Directors' Remuneration Policy
continued
2024 Policy table
continued
62
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Directors’ remuneration report
continued
Notes to the Policy table
Performance measurement
selection
For the annual bonus, performance measures are
chosen to link performance to strategy and the
business plan. Targets for the annual bonus are
typically set with reference to Carclo’s near-term
strategy and internal budget, as well as taking
into account relevant external reference points
(e.g. broker consensus, market outlook). This
approach aims to ensure that the target range set
is appropriately challenging, without encouraging
excessive risk-taking.
Performance conditions for the LTIP are selected
by the Committee to reward the delivery of
long-term returns to shareholders and the Group’s
financial growth and be consistent with the
Company’s objective of delivering superior levels of
long-term value to shareholders. Target-setting for
the LTIP follows a similar approach to that used for
the annual bonus, as detailed above.
The LTIP is operated in accordance with the rules
of the plan, the Listing Rules, company law and
relevant tax legislation. The Committee retains
discretion over certain areas relating to the
operation and administration of the LTIP, consistent
with market practice.
Remuneration policy for
other employees
The following differences exist between the Policy
for the remuneration of Executive Directors as set
out above and the approach to the payment of
employees generally:
i)
benefits offered to other employees generally
comprise provision of healthcare and company
car benefits only where required for the role or
to meet market norms;
ii)
a lower level of maximum annual bonus
opportunity generally applies to employees
below Board level;
iii)
participation in the LTIP is limited to the
Executive Directors and certain selected senior
managers; and
iv)
only Executive Directors, and not other
employees, are expected to bu
ild and maintain
a sizeable share-ownership position.
In general, these differences arise from the
development of remuneration arrangements that
are market competitive for the various categories
of individuals and for the diverse international
employment settings in which we operate. This is of
great importance given the highly cost competitive
demands of the business sectors within which
Carclo competes. They also reflect the fact that,
in the case of the Executive Directors and senior
executives, a greater emphasis tends to be placed
on performance-related pay.
Policy for the Non-Executive
Directors
The Board determines the Policy and level of fees
for the Non-Executive Directors, within the limits
set out in the articles of association. No individual is
allowed to participate in discussions relating to their
own remuneration.
The Policy table summarises the key components
of remuneration for the Non-Executive Directors.
Non-Executive Directors do not participate in
variable pay arrangements or receive any pension
provision. They are not subject to any share
ownership guideline.
Legacy payments
The Committee reserves the right to make any
remuneration payments and payments for loss
of office (including exercising any discretions
available to it in connection with such payments)
notwithstanding that they are not in line with the
Policy set out above, where the terms of the
payment were agreed (i) before the Policy set out
above came into effect, provided that the terms of
the payment were consistent with the Policy in force
at the time they were agreed, or (ii) at a time when
the relevant individual was not a Director of the
Company and, in the opinion of the Committee, the
payment was not in consideration for the individual
becoming a Director of the Company.
For these purposes, “payments” includes
the Committee satisfying awards of variable
remuneration and, in relation to an award over
shares, the terms of the payment are “agreed”
at the time the award is granted.
Pay scenario charts
The graphs below provide estimates of the potential
future reward opportunity for the two Executive
Director positions for FY25, and the potential
split between different elements of remuneration
under four different scenarios: “Minimum”, “On
target”, “Maximum” and “Maximum with share price
increase” performance.
Chief Executive Officer
Chief Financial Officer
Maximum
50%
50%
£740,000
On target
67%
33%
£555,000
Minimum
100%
£370,000
Maximum
43%
57%
£420,000
On target
29%
71%
£336,000
Minimum
100%
£240,000
Basic salary, benefits and pension
Bonus
Directors' Remuneration Policy
continued
63
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Directors’ remuneration report
continued
Pay scenario charts
continued
Assumptions underlying each element of pay are provided in the table below.
Base salary
£000
Benefits
£000
Pension
£000
Total fixed
£000
F Doorenbosch
370
4
1
0
374
E Hutchinson
240
0
0
240
1.
Based on the figure from FY24.
Maximum with
share price increase
Based on maximum remuneration receivable including the impact of share price growth
As for maximum but including share price appreciation of 50% during the performance period of the LTIP, although as no LTIP award is to be granted in FY25, as explained in the
Annual Statement from the Chair of the Remuneration Committee, no value is included for LTIP awards
Minimum
Fixed pay comprising base salary, benefits and pension
Base salary is the current base salary effective 1 April 2024
Benefits are the current benefits projected for the financial year ahead
No annual bonus and no vesting of the LTIP
On target
Based on remuneration if performance is in line with expectations
As for minimum, plus:
Annual bonus – 50% of base salary for the CEO and 40% of base salary for the CFO
No LTIP award to be granted in FY25, as explained in the Annual Statement from the Chair of the Remuneration Committee, so no value is included for LTIP awards
The projected value of the LTIP excludes the impact of share price growth and dividend accrual
Maximum
Based on maximum remuneration receivable
As for minimum, plus:
Annual bonus – 100% of base salary for the CEO and 75% of base salary for the CFO
No LTIP award to be granted in FY25, as explained in the Annual Statement from the Chair of the Remuneration Committee, so no value is included for LTIP awards
The projected value of the LTIP excludes the impact of share price growth and dividend accrual
Directors' Remuneration Policy
continued
64
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Directors’ remuneration report
continued
Approach to remuneration on
recruitment
The remuneration package for any new permanent
Executive Director would be set in accordance with
the terms of the Company’s prevailing approved
Policy at the time of appointment and would reflect
the experience of the individual.
In addition to normal remuneration elements,
the Committee may offer additional cash and/or
share-based remuneration when it considers these
to be in the best interests of the Company (and
therefore shareholders).
This will usually be to take account of remuneration
relinquished by a new Executive Director as a
result of them leaving their former employer
(“buyout” awards).
In making any “buyout” award, the Committee
would take account of, where possible, the nature,
time horizons and performance conditions
(including the likelihood of those conditions being
met) of the forfeited awards. Any “buyout” award
will typically be made under the prevailing annual
bonus and LTIP scheme at the time of appointment,
although in exceptional circumstances the
Committee may exercise the discretion available
under Listing Rule 9.4.2R to make awards using a
different structure.
Any “buyout” award would usually have a fair value
no higher than the awards forfeited. Shareholders
will be informed of any such payments at the time of
appointment.
The Committee will adopt a consistent approach,
as detailed above, for both internal and external
Executive Director appointments. Any variable
pay element awarded in respect of a prior internal
role will usually be allowed to pay out according to
its original terms, without amendment. Where a
promoted individual has contractual commitments
made prior to their promotion to Executive Director,
the Company will continue to honour these
arrangements.
For external and internal appointments, the
Committee may agree that the Company will meet
certain relocation and/or incidental expenses as
appropriate.
In the case of hiring a new Non-Executive Director,
a base fee in line with the prevailing fee schedule
would be payable for Board membership, with
additional fees payable for additional services, such
as chairing a Board Committee or being the Senior
Independent Director.
Service contracts
The Executive Directors are employed under contracts of employment with Carclo. The principal terms of the Executive Directors’ service contracts are as follows:
Term
Summary
Notice period
From the Company: six months.
From the Executive Director: six months.
Termination payments
Pay in lieu of notice subject to normal tax and other statutory deductions.
No notice or payment in lieu of notice where the Company terminates for cause.
Any payment may be paid in one lump sum or in instalments. If paid in instalments, an Executive Director is required to mitigate their losses and any payments in lieu of notice may be reduced,
potentially to zero, by any income received through such mitigation.
Remuneration and benefits
Operation of the annual bonus scheme and LTIP is at the Company’s discretion and is non-contractual.
Expenses
Reimbursement of expenses reasonably incurred in the proper performance of their duties.
Holiday entitlement
Chief Executive Officer: 25 working days plus public holidays.
Chief Financial Officer: 26 working days plus public holidays.
Private medical insurance
Private medical insurance cover is at the Company’s discretion and is non-contractual.
Other benefits
Other benefits may include car allowance, life insurance, private medical insurance and permanent disability insurance, all of which are non-contractual.
Executive Directors are eligible for other paid leave including adoption leave, maternity/paternity leave (as applicable), parental leave, shared parental leave, and bereavement leave in according
with the Company’s then current policies.
Directors' Remuneration Policy
continued
65
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Term
Summary
Directors’ remuneration report
continued
Service contracts
continued
Sickness
Payment for any period of sickness is at the Company’s discretion and subject to set-off in respect of any statutory sick pay/social security sickness benefit or other benefits to which
the Executive Director may be entitled.
Restrictive covenants
Chief Executive Officer: six months.
Chief Financial Officer: during employment and, in relation to:
the Group’s business, six months after leaving (less any period of garden leave) without the prior written consent of the Company; and
the Group’s customers, key employees and products, twelve months after leaving (less any period of garden leave) without the prior written consent of the Company.
Effective date of contract
Chief Executive Officer: Frank Doorenbosch, 6 October 2022.
Chief Financial Officer: Eric Hutchinson, 21 August 2023.
Non-Executive Directors are appointed under arrangements that may generally be terminated at will by either party without compensation and their appointment is reviewed annually.
Letters of appointment are provided to the Non-Executive Directors, which are effective for a period of three years. Non-Executive Directors are subject to annual re-election at the AGM.
The principal terms of the Non-Executive Directors’ letters of appointment are as follows:
Term
Summary
Termination
At the end of their latest term of office unless (i) terminated earlier by and at the discretion of either party or (ii) not re-elected by shareholders at an AGM during their term of office.
Fees
As set out in the Annual Report on Remuneration on page 72.
Expenses
Reimbursement of expenses reasonably incurred in the proper performance of their duties.
Time commitment
Each Non-Executive Director must be able to devote sufficient time to the role to fulfil their duties.
Directors’ letters of appointment and the unexpired period of their appointments (where appropriate after extension by re-election) at 26 July 2024 are set out below:
Non-Executive Director
Date of most
recent letter
Unexpired term as at
31 March 2024
1
Date of appointment
Last re-appointment
at AGM
J Oatley
21 June 2024
To 19 July 2027
20 July 2018
31 August 2023
R Amey
21 February 2023
To 28 February 2026
1 March 2023
31 August 2023
N Kozmina
15 April 2024
To 21 April 2027
22 April 2024
n/a
1.
Unless not elected/re-elected by shareholders at an AGM before this date.
Directors’ service contracts and letters of appointment are available for inspection at the Company’s registered office.
Directors' Remuneration Policy
continued
66
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Policy on payment for loss of office
The Company’s policy is to limit any payment made
to a departing Director to contractual arrangements
and to honour any pre-established commitments.
As part of this process, the Committee will take
into consideration the Executive Director’s duty to
mitigate their loss.
It is Company policy that Executive Directors’
service contracts should not normally contain notice
periods of more than twelve months.
There are no provisions within contracts to provide
automatic payments in excess of payment in lieu
of notice upon termination by the Company and
no predetermined compensation package exists in
the event of termination of employment. Payment
in lieu of notice would include basic salary, pension
contributions and benefits. There are no provisions
for the payment of liquidated damages.
For individuals categorised by the Committee as
“good leavers”, an annual bonus may be payable
with respect to the period of the financial year
served by the departing Executive Director with
the Committee ordinarily providing that such bonus
will be adjusted pro rata for time served and paid
at the normal payout date and subject to the usual
assessment of the extent to which the relevant
performance conditions have been satisfied. The
Committee has the ability to exercise its discretion
on the final amount actually paid and to waive the
deferral period for the bonus.
Any share-based entitlements granted to an
Executive Director under the Company’s share
plans will be determined based on the relevant
plan rules. The default treatment under the LTIP
is that any outstanding awards lapse on cessation
of employment. However, in certain prescribed
circumstances, such as death, injury or disability
or other circumstances at the discretion of the
Committee, “good leaver” status may be applied.
For a “good leaver”, awards will normally vest on the
normal vesting date, although the Committee has
discretion to determine that the awards may vest
at an earlier date and to reduce the holding period.
In determining the extent of any such vesting, the
Committee will take account of the extent to which
the relevant performance conditions have been
satisfied and the proportion of the performance
period served. The Committee has the ability
to exercise its discretion on the final amount
actually paid.
Malus and clawback
Awards granted under the Company’s annual
bonus and LTIP schemes are subject to malus and
clawback provisions, enabling an adjustment to an
employee’s variable pay awards if warranted by the
occurrence of a “trigger event”. The type of events
that may constitute a “trigger event” are as follows:
circumstances justifying the summary dismissal
of an employee from his office or employment
with any member of the Group including, but not
limited to, dishonesty, fraud, misrepresentation
or breach of trust;
circumstances where an employee has
participated in or is responsible for conduct
which resulted in significant losses to any
member of the Group;
the Company has become aware of any material
wrongdoing on the part of an employee;
an employee has acted in a manner which in the
opinion of the Board has brought or is likely to
bring any member of the Group into material
dispute or is materially adverse to the interests
of any member of the Group;
any material breach of an employee’s terms and
conditions of employment, or material breach
of a fiduciary duty owed to any member of
the Group;
any material violation of Company policy, rules
or regulation, or a failure to meet appropriate
standards of fitness and propriety;
any material failure of risk management;
any other conduct which is considered to be
misconduct; or
the inaccurate reporting of any accounts,
financial data or such other information
resulting in such accounts, financial data or
other information being, in the opinion of the
Committee (acting fairly and reasonably),
either materially corrected and/or requiring any
future accounts, financial data or information
having to include write-downs, adjustments or
other corrective items in order to address the
inaccuracy.
The above list is not exhaustive and other
circumstances may also lead to the application of
malus or clawback.
The application of malus (i.e. partial or full lapse of
an unvested incentive opportunity) will be possible
during the relevant performance period and holding
period. The application of clawback (i.e. the partial
or full repayment of a vested-and-paid incentive
award) will be possible for a period of 18 months
from the end of the relevant performance period.
The Committee will consider the most appropriate
method through which to apply an adjustment
to pay at its absolute discretion. In most cases,
the simplest approach would be in the following
sequence:
1.
reduction of in-flight annual bonus and/or LTIP
awards not yet performance-tested (i.e. malus);
2.
reduction of deferred bonus or vested but
not yet exercised/transferred LTIP award (i.e.
malus); and
3.
request for the repayment of an already-paid
annual bonus and/or LTIP award (i.e. clawback).
An employee not in role at the time of the
trigger event should normally be excluded from
an adjustment except in the instance where
the severity of the event warrants a collective
adjustment across the entire business area or
Company regardless of responsibility.
Consideration of employment
conditions elsewhere in the
Company
When determining the Policy and arrangements
for Executive Directors, the Committee considers
pay and employment conditions elsewhere in the
Group to ensure that pay structures are suitably
aligned and that levels of remuneration remain
appropriate. The Committee reviews levels of basic
salary increases for other employees and executives
based on their respective locations. It reviews
participation in the annual bonus scheme and the
LTIP. It also considers benefits offered throughout
the workforce.
Consideration of shareholder views
In its ongoing dialogue with shareholders, the
Committee seeks shareholder views and takes
them into account when any significant changes are
being proposed to remuneration arrangements and
when formulating and implementing the Policy. For
example, shareholders were consulted ahead of the
granting of the LTIP awards under the PSP in FY24.
Directors’ remuneration report
continued
Directors' Remuneration Policy
continued
67
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Annual Report on Remuneration
The following section provides details of how the Policy was implemented during the financial year ended 31 March 2024.
Remuneration Committee membership in FY24
The Remuneration Committee currently comprises N Kozmina, R Amey and J Oatley, and is chaired by N Kozmina. E Hutchinson was a member and Chair of the Committee until 21 August 2023. R Amey chaired the
Committee from 21 August 2023 to 30 April 2024.
The Committee had four scheduled and five ad hoc meetings/written resolutions during FY24 and individual Committee members attended all meetings that they were eligible to attend during the year under review.
During the year, the Committee sought internal support from the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, who attended Committee meetings by invitation from the Committee Chair, to advise on specific
questions raised by the Committee and on matters relating to the performance and remuneration of senior managers. The Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer were not involved in any decisions that
related directly to their own remuneration.
Independent advice
In undertaking its responsibilities, the Committee seeks independent external advice as necessary. During the year, Ellason LLP provided such advice. Ellason LLP has no connection with any individual Director.
During the year £8,652 fees were paid to Ellason LLP in respect of general advice around levels of executive remuneration.
Summary of shareholder voting on remuneration matters
The following table shows the results of the shareholder vote on the FY24 remuneration report at the 2023 AGM:
Total number of votes
% of votes cast
For (including discretionary)
19,924,738
98.76
Against
249,996
1.24
Total votes cast (excluding withheld votes)
20,174,734
100.00
Votes withheld
33,109
Total votes cast (including withheld votes)
20,207,843
The following table shows the results of the shareholder vote on the Remuneration Policy at the 2021 AGM:
Total number of votes
% of votes cast
For (including discretionary)
16,119,471
94.26
Against
980,956
5.74
Total votes cast (excluding withheld votes)
17,100,427
100.00
Votes withheld
16,368
Total votes cast (including withheld votes)
17,116,795
Directors’ remuneration report
continued
68
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Directors’ remuneration report
continued
Annual Report on Remuneration
continued
Single total figure of remuneration for Executive Directors (audited)
The table below sets out a single figure for the total remuneration received by each Executive Director for the year ended 31 March 2024 and the prior year:
Name
Salary
£000
Benefits
1
£000
Annual bonus
£000
LTIP and other
share-based
payments
£000
Pension
2
£000
Total fixed
£000
Total variable
£000
Total
£000
F Doorenbosch
3
FY24
370
8
0
0
0
378
0
378
FY23
335
7
8
0
0
0
342
0
342
D Bedford
4
FY24
84
18
0
0
4
106
0
106
FY23
83
8
8
0
0
4
95
0
95
E Hutchinson
5
FY24
148
0
0
0
0
148
0
148
FY23
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
N Sanders
6
FY24
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
FY23
116
0
0
0
0
116
N/A
116
P White
7
FY24
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
FY23
138
7
0
N/A
N/A
145
0
145
1.
Benefits comprise private medical cover, car allowance and business expenses chargeable to income tax in the UK.
2.
Payments in lieu of pension contributions are in line with the Remuneration Policy.
3.
F Doorenbosch became an Executive Director from 7 June 2022 and worked on a consultancy basis until being formally appointed Chief Executive Officer from 6 October 2022. Remuneration relating to his executive roles within the year ended
31 March 2023 relates to the period 7 June 2022 to 31 March 2023 whilst acting in an executive capacity.
4.
D Bedford was appointed as a Director and Chief Financial Officer on 14 November 2022 and stepped down on 21 August 2023. His remuneration in the year ended 31 March 2023 relates to the period 14 November 2022 to 31 March 2023;
his remuneration in the year ended 31 March 2024 relates to the period 1 April 2023 to 21 August 2023. D Bedford received a payment in lieu of notice (“PILON”).
5.
E Hutchinson’s remuneration in the year ended 31 March 2024 relates to the period 21 August 2023 to 31 March 2024.
6.
N Sanders’ remuneration in the year ended 31 March 2023 relates to the period 1 April 2022 to 5 October 2022, when he stepped down as Executive Chair, and includes a PILON payment of £112,500.
7.
P White’s remuneration in the year ended 31 March 2023 relates to the period 1 April 2022 to 14 November 2022, when he stepped down from the Board. P White continued to be employed by the Company and paid a salary and benefits until
his contractual leave date of 30 June 2023.
8.
Restated to include tax paid on behalf of the relevant Director on expenses chargeable to income tax in the UK.
Payments to former Directors
In line with the terms of his retirement, Phil White received £4,435, being the deferred element of bonus earnt during his time as Chief Financial Officer.
Payments for loss of office
On ceasing to be employed by Carclo, and in accordance with the terms of D Bedford's contract of employment, he received a payment in lieu of his six-month notice period and private medical insurance for the
six-month period which equated to £124,865.
69
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Directors’ remuneration report
continued
Annual Report on Remuneration
continued
Single total figure of remuneration for Non-Executive Directors (audited)
The table below sets out a single figure for the total remuneration received by each Non-Executive Director for the year ended 31 March 2024 and the prior year:
Name
Fees
£000
Benefits
£000
Annual bonus
£000
LTIP and other
share-based
payments
£000
Pension
£000
Total fixed
£000
Total variable
£000
Total
£000
J Oatley
1
FY24
90
0
0
0
0
90
0
90
FY23
65
0
0
0
0
65
0
65
R Amey
2
FY24
44
0
0
0
0
44
0
44
FY23
3
0
0
0
0
3
0
3
F Doorenbosch
3
FY24
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
FY23
8
0
0
0
0
8
0
8
E Hutchinson
4
FY24
46
0
0
0
0
46
0
46
FY23
19
0
0
0
0
19
0
19
N Sanders
5
FY24
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
FY23
8
0
0
0
0
8
0
8
J Templeman
6
FY24
4
0
0
0
0
4
0
4
FY23
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
1.
J Oatley acted as Senior Independent Director until 6 November 2022, when he was appointed as Non-Executive Chair.
2.
R Amey was appointed as a Non-Executive Director on 1 March 2023. She was appointed as interim Senior Independent Director from 21 August 2023 to 31 January 2024 and on a permanent basis from 28 February 2024. She was appointed Chair
of the Audit & Risk Committee from 21 August 2023. She was interim Chair of the Remuneration Committee from 21 August 2023 until 30 April 2024. In recognition of the fact that R Amey held multiple Committee Chair roles and was supporting
J Templeman as he took on the role of Senior Independent Director, she continued to be paid an enhanced fee during the month of February 2024.
3.
F Doorenbosch was appointed as an Executive Director from 7 June 2022 and worked on a consultancy basis until being formally appointed Chief Executive Officer from 6 October 2022. Remuneration relating to his non-executive role within
the year ended 31 March 2023 relates to the period 1 April 2022 to 6 June 2022.
4.
E Hutchinson acted as a Non-Executive Director and Audit & Risk Committee Chair until 6 November 2022, when he was also appointed as the Senior Independent Director. He became an Executive Director from 21 August 2023.
His remuneration in the year ended 31 March 2024 relates to the period 1 April 2023 to 20 August 2023.
5.
N Sanders became Non-Executive Chair on 6 October 2022 and stepped down from the Board on 5 November 2022.
6.
J Templeman was appointed as Non-Executive Director and Senior Independent Director on 1 February 2024 and stepped down on 27 February 2024.
Incentive outcomes for the year ended 31 March 2024 (audited)
Annual performance bonus outcome FY24
Name
Maximum potential
% of salary
Outcome
% of salary
F Doorenbosch
100
0
D Bedford
1
75
0
E Hutchinson
75
0
1.
D Bedford was not entitled to a bonus payment in relation to FY24 following his departure in the year.
70
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Directors’ remuneration report
continued
Annual Report on Remuneration
continued
Incentive outcomes for the year ended 31 March 2024 (audited)
continued
Annual performance bonus outcome FY24
continued
The financial performance targets applicable to the FY24 annual bonus arrangements for the Executive
Directors were as follows:
To achieve and exceed the Group’s underlying EBIT.
All payments were subject to a reduction:
of 10% if the Group’s operating cash conversion rate was below the level achieved in the previous
financial year; and/or
of 10% if the Group’s health and safety incident frequency rate exceeded that of the previous
financial year.
To achieve threshold, the Group was required to achieve underlying EBIT performance of £6.3m.
Underlying EBIT, after adjustments to reduce this to reflect certain exceptional items that the Remuneration
Committee deemed should be included in underlying EBIT for the purposes of the bonus calculation,
was £6.1m.
Consequently, none of the potential annual bonus was achieved and therefore no payment will be made
to the Executive Directors in respect of the FY24 annual bonus.
Scheme interests awarded in the year ended 31 March 2024 (audited)
FY24 LTIP
Date of grant
Share price at date of
award made during
the year
Shares subject
to awards
Face value at
date of award
F Doorenbosch
21/09/2023
12.725p
1,250,000
£159,063
E Hutchinson
21/09/2023
12.725p
750,000
£95,438
Awards take the form of conditional share awards.
The extent to which awards granted in the year ended 31 March 2024 will vest is dependent on two
independent performance conditions, with 50% determined by reference to the Company’s absolute TSR
and 50% determined by reference to the Company’s EPS, as follows:
The TSR element:
The performance period is the period commencing on the grant date and ending on the vesting date, which
will be the third anniversary of the grant date.
The TSR performance condition will be based on the Company’s TSR as at the end of the performance
period, as follows:
if TSR is 40 pence or less, the TSR Award will not vest to any extent;
if TSR is 100 pence or above, the TSR Award will vest in full; and
if TSR falls between 40 pence and 100 pence, a proportion of the TSR Award will vest, calculated by
straight-line apportionment.
The measurement period relates to the period of 60 days preceding the third anniversary of the grant date,
using the average daily closing share price calculated from that date and ending on the last dealing day
before the vesting date. At 31 March 2024, the closing share price was 7.45 pence.
This also includes any gross dividends paid in respect of the shares between the grant date and the vesting
date reinvested on the relevant payment date at the average of the high and low share prices on that date.
Under the terms of the amended and restated bank facilities agreement, the Group is not permitted to
make a dividend payment to shareholders up to the period ending December 2025.
The EPS element:
The performance period is the period of three financial years of the Company between 1 April 2023 and
31 March 2026.
The EPS performance condition will be based on the Company’s EPS for the last financial year of the
performance period (the financial year ending 31 March 2026), as follows:
if EPS is 6.0 pence or less, the EPS Award will not vest to any extent;
if EPS is 10.0 pence or above, the EPS Award will vest in full; and
if EPS falls between 6.0 pence and 10.0 pence, a proportion of the EPS Award will vest, calculated by
straight-line apportionment.
Implementation of Remuneration Policy for the year ending 31 March 2025
A summary of how the Policy will be applied during the year ending 31 March 2025 is set out below:
Basic salary
Executive Directors’ base salaries.
FY25
FY24
1
% increase
F Doorenbosch
£370,000
£370,000
0
E Hutchinson
£240,000
£240,000
0
1.
Full-year equivalent.
Below Executive Director level, base pay increases are limited to cost-of-living adjustments, typically in
the range 4% to 8%, apart from cases where local statutory requirements require a different approach,
promotions, increases in scope or other exceptional reasons. There has not been an increase in base
salaries for the Executive Directors in the period. The Board is mindful of the pressures during the current
economic climate, particularly increases in cost of living, and is working hard to ensure support is provided
to employees throughout this difficult period.
Pension arrangements
As agreed with F Doorenbosch and E Hutchinson, neither Executive Director receives employer pension
contributions. Prior to his appointment as Chief Financial Officer, D Bedford received a pension contribution
of 5%. Upon his appointment, he continued to receive the same contribution.
71
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Directors’ remuneration report
continued
Annual Report on Remuneration
continued
Implementation of Remuneration Policy for the year ending 31 March 2025
continued
Annual bonus
Subject to approval of the Policy at the 2024 AGM, it is anticipated that the maximum bonus potential for
the year ending 31 March 2025 will be 100% of salary for the CEO and 75% of salary for the CFO. The bonus
will be based on a financial measure, being underlying EBIT. In recognition of the importance of safety to the
business, the Company has included an automatic reduction for any drop in safety performance compared
with the prior financial year. An automatic reduction will also be applied for any drop in cash conversion
performance compared with the prior financial year. Finally, an overall affordability underpin will be applied
to all formulaic outcomes. The Remuneration Committee reserves discretion over agreeing some element
of personal objective should that be deemed to be in the best interests of the Company and shareholders.
Maximum bonus will only be payable when the financial results of the Group significantly exceed
expectations and the Remuneration Committee retains the discretion to adjust awards where appropriate
to reflect underlying financial and operating performance of the Group. Clawback and malus provisions will
apply for all Executive Directors. Payment of 33% of any bonus earned by an Executive Director is subject
to deferral for two years.
Proposed target levels have been set to be challenging relative to the FY25 business plan, although specific
targets are deemed to be commercially sensitive and will not be published until such time as the Committee
is confident there will be no adverse impact on the Company of such disclosure. At this time the Committee
believes that the disclosure of targets in the year following the determination of bonuses is appropriate, as
disclosed above.
Long-term incentives
As explained in the Annual Statement from the Chair of the Remuneration Committee, it is anticipated that
no LTIP awards will be granted in FY25 unless the Board believes it is necessary to recruit a new key hire. If
an award is considered necessary, it will be granted in line with the Policy.
Following its review of the Policy, the Committee has determined that the LTIP is currently fit for purpose.
The Committee believes the scheme works by closely aligning Executive Directors’ long-term interests
with those of the Company and its shareholders. As set out in the Policy, awards will be subject to malus and
clawback provisions, and to a requirement to hold the shares subject to awards for five years from date of
grant except in exceptional circumstances or to pay any tax liability arising on vesting.
Non-Executive Directors
The Company’s approach to Non-Executive Directors’ remuneration is set by the Board with account
taken of the time and responsibility involved in each role, including, where applicable, the chairing of Board
Committees. A summary of current fees is shown in the table below. The Chair is paid a single fee for all of
their responsibilities. The Senior Independent Director is also not entitled to receive any remuneration for
chairing any Committees.
Fee levels for FY25 can be summarised as follows:
Provision
FY25
FY24
% increase
Non-Executive Chair base fee
£90,000
£90,000
0
Non-Executive Director base fee
£38,000
£38,000
0
Senior Independent Director fee
£10,000
£10,000
0
Committee Chair fees
£7,000
£7,000
0
72
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Directors’ remuneration report
continued
Annual Report on Remuneration
continued
Percentage change in Directors’ remuneration
The table below shows the percentage change in each Director’s salary/fees, bonus and benefits between the financial year ended 31 March 2023 and 31 March 2024 compared to that of the total amounts for all UK
employees of the Group for each of these elements of pay. The figures used to calculate the percentage changes for Directors are annualised salary/fees, benefits and bonus on a comparable basis. Prior year figures
have been restated to ensure all figures are presented on a consistent basis. Over time, a five-year comparison will be built up.
FY23 to FY24
FY22 to FY23
FY21 to FY22
FY20 to FY21
Base salary/fee
Benefits
16
Bonus
Base salary/fee
Benefits
Bonus
Base salary/fee
Benefits
Bonus
Base salary/fee
Benefits
Bonus
Executive Chair
N Sanders
1
50.00%
0.00%
Chief Executive Officer
F Doorenbosch
2
0.00%
(4.76)%
0.00%
Executive Directors
D Bedford
3
0.00%
102.5%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
A Collins (interim CEO)
4
0.00%
M Durkin-Jones
5
0.00%
E Hutchinson
6
P White
7
3.00%
1.82%
(100.00)%
0.00%
(8.33)%
(71.15)%
Non-Executive Directors
J Oatley
8
0.00%
0.00%
22.23%
0.00%
R Amey
9
0.00%
0.00%
F Doorenbosch
2
3.35%
E Hutchinson
6
0.00%
0.00%
4.79%
N Kozmina
10
P Slabbert
11
0.00%
J Templeman
12
D Toohey
13
0.00%
Average percentage change
for UK employees
14, 15
4.75%
20.39%
(42.49)%
5.36%
1.33%
(19.25)%
2.9%
19.4%
(54.1)%
3.4%
0.00%
720%
1.
Stepped down on 5 November 2022.
2.
Non-Executive Director from 1 April 2022 to 6 June 2022. Appointed as an Executive Director from 7 June 2022.
Appointed as CEO on 6 October 2022.
3.
Appointed as CFO on 14 November 2022. Stepped down on 21 August 2023.
4.
Stepped down on 5 October 2020.
5.
Stepped down on 17 December 2020.
6.
Non-Executive Director from 6 November 2022 to 20 August 2023. Appointed as CFO from 21 August 2023.
7.
Stepped down on 14 November 2022.
8.
Non-Executive Director to 5 November 2022. Appointed as Non-Executive Chair from 6 November 2022.
9.
Non-Executive Director to 20 August 2023. Senior Independent Director from 21 August 2023 to 31 January 2024 and
from 28 February 2024.
10. Non-Executive Director from 22 April 2024.
11.
Stepped down on 31 March 2021.
12.
Non-Executive Director from 1 February 2024. Stepped down on 27 February 2024.
13. Stepped down on 31 March 2021.
14. UK employees have been selected as the most appropriate comparator pool, given the largest number of Group
employees and the Group’s headquarters are located in the UK.
15. The bonus figures are for UK-based employees who participate in a bonus arrangement.
16. Changes in benefits largely reflect changes in business expenses chargeable to income tax.
73
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Annual Report on Remuneration
continued
Relative importance of spend on pay
The table below shows the Group’s actual expenditure on pay (for all employees) relative to the losses for
FY23 and FY24.
FY24
£000
FY23
£000
% change
Staff costs
38,642
40,709
(5.1)%
Loss for the period
3,299
3,957
(16.6)%
Number
Number
% change
Number of employees
1,059
1,116
(5.1)%
Relative performance
The graph below compares the value of £100 invested in Carclo shares, including reinvested dividends, with
the FTSE Small Cap index over the last ten years. This index was selected because it is considered to be the
most appropriate against which the total shareholder return of Carclo plc should be measured.
Table of historical data (Chief Executive Officer/Executive Chair)
FY15
FY16
FY17
FY18
FY19
FY20
1
FY21
2
FY22
3
FY23
FY24
Chief Executive/
Executive Chair
single figure of
remuneration
(£000)
538
462
836
449
325
270
321
150
458
4
378
Annual bonus
payout (as % of
maximum)
71
21
96
PSP vesting (as %
of maximum)
50
50
32.5
1.
C Malley was appointed Chief Executive on 27 March 2013 and resigned as Chief Executive and stood down from the
Board on 11 January 2019. M Rollins assumed the role of Executive Chair until A Collins was appointed as new interim
Chief Executive on 1 October 2019. Consequently, the full-year data for FY20 is a combination of both, reflecting the
period in which M Rollins acted as Executive Chair and A Collins acted as Chief Executive.
2.
A Collins left the Group on 5 November 2020, however acted as CEO until 5 October 2020, and N Sanders assumed
the role of Executive Chair on 5 October 2020. Consequently, the full-year data for FY21 is a combination of both,
reflecting the period in which A Collins acted as CEO and N Sanders acted as Executive Chair.
3.
N Sanders stepped down as Executive Chair on 6 October 2022 and F Doorenbosch was appointed as CEO effective
6 October 2022. Consequently, the full-year data for FY23 is a combination of both, reflecting the period in which
N Sanders acted as Executive Chair and F Doorenbosch acted as CEO.
4.
Restated to exclude payment for loss of office for N Sanders and to include tax paid on behalf of the relevant Director
on expenses chargeable to income tax in the UK.
Directors’ remuneration report
continued
0
2014
200
250
150
100
50
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2023
2022
2024
Carclo
FTSE Small Cap ex-ITs
74
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Directors’ remuneration report
continued
Annual Report on Remuneration
continued
CEO pay ratio reporting
Outlined below is the ratio of the CEO’s single figure of total remuneration for FY24 expressed as a multiple of total remuneration for UK employees. The ratios provided for prior years use a combination of the CEO’s and
the Executive Chair’s single figure of total remuneration, as explained above under the table of historical data (CEO/Executive Chair), reflecting the period each role undertook, the role of CEO or its equivalent.
The three ratios referenced below are calculated by reference to the employees at the 25th, 50th and 75th percentile. We additionally disclose the total pay and benefits and base salary of the employees used to
calculate the ratios.
In time, the table below will build to represent ten years of data:
Financial year
Method
25th percentile
pay ratio
Median
pay ratio
75th percentile
pay ratio
FY24
Option A
18 : 1
13 : 1
9 : 1
FY23
1
Option A
19 : 1
15 : 1
11 : 1
FY22
Option A
7 : 1
6 : 1
4 : 1
FY21
Option A
15 : 1
13 : 1
8 : 1
FY20
Option A
12 : 1
10 : 1
7 : 1
1.
Restated to exclude payment for loss of office for N Sanders and to include tax paid on behalf of the relevant Director on expenses chargeable to income tax in the UK.
Full-year pay data for the FY24 financial year has been used to calculate the ratios.
The employee data used to calculate the ratios is as follows:
25th percentile
Median
75th percentile
Total pay and benefits
£21,136
£30,230
£42,886
Base salary
£17,760
£25,479
£37,005
Of the three options set out in the new legislation for calculating the Chief Executive/Executive Chair pay ratio, we have opted to use Option A to calculate the pay ratio.
We confirm our belief that the median pay ratio for the year is consistent with the Company’s wider pay, reward and progression policies affecting our employees. Our pay reflects the key market in which we operate.
75
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Directors’ remuneration report
continued
Annual Report on Remuneration
continued
Directors’ interests (audited)
The interests of the Directors and their connected persons in the ordinary shares of the Company as at 31 March 2024 and the date of this report were as follows:
26 July 2024
31 March 2024
31 March 2023
Ordinary shares
Options
Ordinary shares
Options
Ordinary shares
Options
J Oatley
400,000
N/A
400,000
N/A
400,000
N/A
R Amey
5,000
N/A
0
N/A
0
N/A
N Kozmina
0
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
F Doorenbosch
403,958
0
403,958
0
403,958
0
E Hutchinson
192,118
0
192,118
0
192,118
0
Directors’ shareholding requirement (audited)
The table below shows the shareholding of each Executive Director against their respective shareholding requirement as at 31 March 2024:
Director
Shares held
Owned outright or
vested
Vested but subject to
holding period
Unvested and subject
to vesting conditions
Shareholding
requirement (% salary)
Current shareholding
(% salary)
Prior year shareholding
(% salary)
F Doorenbosch
403,958
0
1,250,000
100
8.13
18.10
E Hutchinson
192,118
0
750,000
100
5.96
N/A
There have been no changes in the Executive Directors’ interests since the year end.
Directors’ interests in shares in Carclo long-term incentive plans (audited)
All of the above shares held by F Doorenbosch and E Hutchinson are owned outright as a result of market purchases.
Approval of the Directors’ remuneration report
The Directors’ remuneration report set out on pages 57 to 76 was approved by the Board of Directors on 26 July 2024 and signed on its behalf by Natalia Kozmina, Chair of the Remuneration Committee.
Natalia Kozmina
Chair of the Remuneration Committee
26 July 2024
76
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Pages 77 and 78 inclusive (together with the sections of the annual report incorporated into these pages
by reference) constitute the Directors’ report that has been drawn up and presented in accordance with
applicable law. The Directors’ report also includes certain disclosures that the Company is required to make
by the Financial Conduct Authority’s Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules and Listing Rules.
Strategic report
The strategic report required by the Companies Act 2006 can be found on pages 1 to 43. This report
sets out the Company’s business model and strategy, contains a review of the business and describes the
development and performance of the Group’s business during the financial year and its position at the end
of the year. It also contains, on pages 37 to 42, a description of the principal risks and uncertainties facing
the Group.
The Directors who served during the year are set out below:
J Oatley
R Amey
J Templeman – appointed 1 February 2024, stepped down 27 February 2024
F Doorenbosch
E Hutchinson
D Bedford – stepped down 21 August 2023
FCA’s Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules
For the purposes of the Financial Conduct Authority’s Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules
(DTR 4.1.5R (2) and DTR 4.1.8R), this Directors’ report and the strategic report on pages 1 to 43 together
comprise the “management report”.
Going concern
As described in the viability statement on page 43, the Directors have assessed the prospects and viability
of the Company over a three-year period to March 2027. The Board has established a rigorous approach
to cash forecasting and put controls in place to eliminate expenditure and reduce capital expenditure to
manage cash generation more tightly. This has ensured that the Group is in a stronger position to achieve
results that result in sufficient headroom on covenant tests to avoid a material uncertainty. In addition, the
Board has negotiated an extension to the term of the current finance facility to 31 December 2025 to allow
time to refinance the Group in an orderly manner. The Board has performed a robust assessment of the
principal risks facing the Company, including those risks that would threaten the business model, future
performance, solvency or liquidity.
Dividend
In accordance with the provisions of the amended and restated bank facilities agreement signed on
2 September 2022, the business is not currently permitted to pay dividends. The Board is therefore not
recommending the payment of a dividend for FY24 (FY23: £nil).
Post balance sheet events
Notice was given to the landlord on 12 April 2024 that the Company would exercise the break option to exit
the leased buildings at Tucson, Arizona, USA on 1 October 2025 following the decision to close the facility
at Tucson. The reduction in the lease liability of £1.3m has been reflected in the balance sheet at 31 March
2024 as the Company is certain to exit on closure.
On 5 July 2024, the Group’s lending bank extended the committed facilities to 31 December 2025. In
the meantime, the Company has commenced negotiations with new lenders to refinance the existing
term loans and revolving credit facilities in order to provide the strategic funding for the next phase of the
business development.
Share capital
At 31 March 2024, the Company’s issued share capital comprised 73,419,193 ordinary shares of
5 pence each.
Each share carries equal rights to dividends, voting and return of capital on the winding up of the Company
as set out in the Company’s articles of association. There are no restrictions on the transfer of securities
in the Company and there are no restrictions on voting rights or deadlines, other than those prescribed by
law or by the articles of association, nor is the Company aware of any arrangement between holders of its
shares which may result in restrictions on the transfer of securities or voting rights.
Share capital authorities
The Directors were granted a general authority at the 2023 AGM to allot shares in the capital of the
Company up to an aggregate nominal value of £1,211,417 (representing approximately 33% of the issued
share capital prior to the 2023 AGM). This authority is due to lapse at the 2024 AGM.
At the 2023 AGM the Directors also requested authority to allot shares for cash on a non-pre-emptive basis
in any circumstances up to a maximum aggregate nominal amount of £183,548 (representing approximately
5% of the issued share capital prior to the 2023 AGM) and to purchase up to 10% of the Company’s issued
ordinary shares in the market. This authority is also due to lapse at the 2024 AGM.
All of the above share capital authority resolutions will be proposed for renewal of authority at the
2024 AGM.
Change of control
The financing agreement with HSBC includes a change of control clause that, on its occurrence, would
result in the cancellation of the facilities and all amounts due would be immediately due and repayable.
There are no other significant agreements to which the Company is a party that take effect, alter or
terminate on a change of control following a takeover bid, nor are there any agreements between the
Company and its Directors or employees providing for compensation for loss of office or employment
(whether through resignation, purported redundancy or otherwise) that occurs because of a takeover bid.
Amendment of articles of association
The Company’s articles of association may only be amended by special resolution of the shareholders at a
general meeting.
Appointment and replacement of Directors
The Company’s articles of association provide that the number of Directors shall be not more than twelve
and not fewer than four, unless otherwise determined by the Company by ordinary resolution. Directors
may be appointed by an ordinary resolution of the shareholders or by a resolution of the Board.
A Director appointed by the Board during the year must retire at the first AGM following their appointment
and such Director is eligible to offer themself for election by the Company’s shareholders.
Additionally, the Company’s articles of association provide that every Director shall retire from office at
each AGM. A Director who retires at an AGM may be re-elected by the shareholders.
Directors’ report
77
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Appointment and replacement of Directors
continued
In line with the Company’s articles of association and the UK Corporate Governance Code, all Directors in
office at the date of the 2023 AGM retired and presented themselves for re-election at the 2023 AGM.
In addition to the statutory power, a Director may be removed by ordinary resolution of the shareholders.
The articles also set out the circumstances when a Director must leave office. These include where a
Director resigns, becomes bankrupt, is absent from the business without permission or where a Director is
removed by notice signed by a requisite number of remaining Directors.
Political donations and expenditure
No political donations were made, nor was political expenditure incurred during the financial year.
Substantial shareholdings
Pursuant to the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules of the Financial Conduct Authority, the
Company received notification of the following shareholdings in its issued share capital as at 31 March 2024
and 26 July 2024:
As at 26 July 2024
4
As at 31 March 2024
4
Schroder Investment Management Limited
1
18.01%
13.40%
Henderson Global Investors Limited
2
9.88%
9.88%
First Equity Limited
3
3.92%
10.22%
1.
Whose ultimate controlling person is Schroders plc.
2.
Whose ultimate controlling person is Henderson Group plc.
3.
As Investment Manager of Armstrong Investments Limited, whose ultimate controlling person is William Black.
4.
The percentage referenced in this table is the percentage as at the date of notification.
Directors’ indemnities
The Company’s articles of association permit the Company to indemnify any Director or any Director of
any associated company against any liability pursuant to any qualifying third-party indemnity provision or
any qualifying pension scheme indemnity provision, or on any other lawful basis.
The indemnity provisions entered into by the Company in favour of all the Directors were in force during
the year and continue to be in force at the date the Directors’ report is approved. The Company also
takes out insurance covering claims against the Directors or officers of the Company and any associated
company and this insurance provides cover in respect of some of the Company’s liabilities under the
indemnity provisions.
Disclosure of information to auditor
In accordance with Section 418(2) of the Companies Act 2006, the Directors who held office at the date
of approval of this Directors’ report confirm that, so far as they are each aware, there is no relevant audit
information of which the Company’s auditor is unaware; and each Director has taken all the steps that
they ought to have taken as a Director to make themselves aware of any relevant audit information and
to establish that the Company’s auditor is aware of that information.
The following information is incorporated into this Directors’ report by reference and is deemed to form
part of this report:
Directors’ report
continued
Information required by LR 9.8.4R
There is no additional information required to be
disclosed under LR 9.8.4R other than that disclosed
in the Directors’ remuneration report.
By order of the Board
Eric Hutchinson
Company Secretary
26 July 2024
Disclosure
Section of report
Corporate governance statement
Statement of corporate
governance
45
The Group’s business activities, together with the
factors likely to affect its future development
Strategic report
1 to 43
The financial position of the Group, its cash flows,
liquidity position and borrowing facilities
Strategic report –
Finance review
Note 20
33 to 36
120 to 123
The (loss)/profit from continuing operations of the
Group before taxation
Consolidated income
statement
88
The statutory result of the Group
Consolidated income
statement
88
Details of the changes in issued share capital during
the year
Note 25
134 to 136
Information on the Group’s financial risk management
objectives and policies and its exposure to credit risk,
interest risk, liquidity risk and foreign currency risk
Note 27
137 to 142
The Group’s policies as regards the employment of
disabled persons and a description of actions the Group
has taken to encourage greater employee involvement
in the business
Strategic report –
Responsible operations
– People
23
Information on greenhouse gas emissions and energy
consumption
Strategic report –
Responsible operations
– Environment
26 and 27
Information on engagement with employees, suppliers
and customers
Strategic report – section
172 statement
17 to 19
Directors during the year and at the date of this
Directors’ report
Directors' report
77
Information relating to Directors’ remuneration and
interests in the ordinary share capital of the Company
Directors’ remuneration
report
69 to 76
Page(s)
78
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
The Directors are responsible for preparing the
annual report and the Group and parent company
financial statements in accordance with applicable
law and regulations.
Company law requires the Directors to prepare
Group and parent company financial statements
for each financial year. Under that law, the Directors
have prepared the Group financial statements
in accordance with UK-adopted International
Accounting Standards and have elected to prepare
the parent company financial statements in
accordance with UK accounting standards, including
FRS 101 Reduced Disclosure Framework.
Under company law the Directors must not approve
the financial statements unless they are satisfied
they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs
of the Group and parent company and of their profit
or loss for that period. In preparing each of the
Group and parent company financial statements,
the Directors are required to:
select suitable accounting policies and then
apply them consistently;
make judgements and estimates that are
reasonable, relevant, reliable and prudent;
for the Group financial statements, state
whether they have been prepared in accordance
with IFRSs as adopted by the UK;
for the parent company financial statements,
state whether applicable UK accounting
standards have been followed, subject to any
material departures disclosed and explained in
the parent company financial statements;
assess the Group and parent company’s ability
to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as
applicable, matters related to going concern;
and
use the going concern basis of accounting
unless they either intend to liquidate the Group
or the parent company or to cease operations or
have no realistic alternative but to do so.
The Directors are responsible for keeping adequate
accounting records that are sufficient to show
and explain the parent company’s transactions
and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time
the financial position of the parent company and
enable them to ensure that its financial statements
comply with the Companies Act 2006. They
are responsible for such internal control as they
determine is necessary to enable the preparation
of financial statements that are free from material
misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and
have general responsibility for taking such steps
as are reasonably open to them to safeguard the
assets of the Group and to prevent and detect
fraud and other irregularities.
Under applicable law and regulations, the Directors
are also responsible for preparing a strategic report,
Directors’ report, Directors’ remuneration report
and statement of corporate governance that
complies with that law and those regulations.
The Directors are responsible for the maintenance
and integrity of the corporate and financial
information included on the Company’s website.
Legislation in the UK governing the preparation and
dissemination of financial statements may differ
from legislation in other jurisdictions.
Responsibility statement of the
Directors in respect of the annual
financial report
The Directors as at the date of this report, whose
names and functions are set out on pages 47 and
48, confirm that to the best of their knowledge:
the financial statements, prepared in accordance
with the applicable set of accounting standards,
give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities,
financial position and profit or loss of the
Company and the undertakings included in the
consolidation taken as a whole; and
the strategic report includes a fair review of
the development and performance of the
business and the position of the issuer and the
undertakings included in the consolidation taken
as a whole, together with a description of the
principal risks and uncertainties that they face.
We consider the annual report and accounts, taken
as a whole, is fair, balanced and understandable and
provides the information necessary for shareholders
to assess the Group’s position and performance,
business model and strategy.
By order of the Board
Frank Doorenbosch
Chief Executive Officer
26 July 2024
Statement of Directors’ responsibilities
79
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Opinion
We have audited the financial statements of Carclo plc (the ‘Parent Company’) and its subsidiaries
(the ‘Group’) for the year ended 31 March 2024 which comprise the consolidated income statement,
consolidated statement of comprehensive income, consolidated statement of financial position,
consolidated statement of changes in equity, consolidated statement of cash flows, company balance
sheet, company statement of changes in equity and notes to the financial statements, including material
accounting policy information.
The financial reporting framework that has been applied in the preparation of the Group financial
statements is applicable law and UK-adopted international accounting standards. The financial
reporting framework that has been applied in the preparation of the Parent Company financial
statements is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards including FRS 101 “Reduced
Disclosure Framework” (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice) as applied in
accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act 2006.
In our opinion,
the financial statements give a true and fair view of the state of the Group’s and of the Parent
Company’s affairs as at 31 March 2024 and of the Group’s loss for the year then ended;
the Group financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with UK-adopted
international accounting standards;
the Parent Company financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with United
Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice as applied in accordance with the requirements of
the Companies Act of 2006; and
the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies
Act of 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. We are independent of the
Group and the 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 public interest 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
In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the directors’ use of the going concern basis of
accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.
In addition to those matters set out in the “Key audit matters” section below, we identified going concern of
the Group and of the Parent Company as a key audit matter. The Group is dependent on debt facilities from
its bank, which have a number of financial covenants and at the planning stage of the audit these facilities
were due to expire in June 2025.
The Group disclosed a material uncertainty over going concern in its interim accounts for the six months to
30 September 2023 due to a lack of forecast headroom on its interest cover covenant. Therefore, there is a
risk that the going concern basis of preparation is not appropriate for the financial statements and we have
identified going concern as a key audit matter.
Based on a due diligence process undertaken by a reputable third-party consultancy firm, in July 2024
the Group’s lending bank extended the committed facilities to 31 December 2025. Since the year end, the
Company has commenced negotiations with new lenders to refinance the existing facilities.
The Group is also undertaking restructuring activities to reduce expense and to drive operational
efficiency with the full benefit expected to be realised in the coming years.
The Group’s accounting policy in respect of going concern is set out in note 1 ‘Basis of preparation’ on
page 93. Going concern has also been identified as a key judgement in note 2 on page 100.
Our audit procedures to evaluate the directors’ assessment of the Group’s and the Parent Company’s
ability to continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting included, but were not limited to:
Undertaking an initial assessment at the planning stage of the audit to identify events or conditions
that may cast significant doubt on the Group’s and the Parent Company’s ability to continue as a
going concern;
Obtaining an understanding of the relevant controls relating to the directors’ going concern assessment;
Making enquiries of the directors to understand the period of assessment considered by them, the
assumptions they considered and the implication of those when assessing the Group’s and Parent
Company’s future financial performance;
Challenging the appropriateness of the directors’ key assumptions in their cash flow forecasts, as
described in note 1, by reviewing supporting and contradictory evidence in relation to these key
assumptions and assessing the directors’ consideration of severe but plausible scenarios. This included
considering mitigating actions within the directors’ control;
Testing the accuracy and functionality of the model used to prepare the directors’ forecasts;
Assessing the historical accuracy of forecasts prepared by the directors;
Assessing and challenging key assumptions and mitigating actions put in place in response to wider
global economic conditions;
Considering the consistency of the directors’ forecasts with other areas of the financial statements and
our audit;
Examining the facility headroom on the debt facilities and evaluating whether the directors’ conclusion
that liquidity headroom remains in all scenarios modelled by them is reasonable;
Carrying out independent evaluation of the forecast and stress tests in relation to the forecasts
prepared by the management;
Reviewing and ascertaining the status and the outcome of negotiations with the bank in respect
of extension of the loan facilities with the bank including review of the associated agreements and
documentation;
Reviewing the financial covenants (including agreed amendments) associated with the debt facilities
and checking the calculation of the covenants and projected compliance through to December 2025,
being the expiry date of the existing facilities; and
Evaluating the appropriateness of the directors’ disclosures in the financial statements on going concern.
Independent auditor’s report
to the members of Carclo plc
80
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Independent auditor’s report
continued
to the members of Carclo plc
Conclusions relating to going concern
continued
Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events
or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the Group’s and the Parent
Company’s ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the
financial statements are authorised for issue.
Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the directors with respect to going concern are described in
the relevant sections of this report.
In relation to Carclo plc’s reporting on how it has applied the UK Corporate Governance Code, we have
nothing material to add or draw attention to in relation to the directors’ statement in the financial statements
about whether the directors considered it appropriate to adopt the going concern basis of accounting.
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) we identified, including those which had the greatest
effect on: the overall audit strategy; the allocation of resources in the audit; and directing the efforts of the
engagement team. These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the financial statements as
a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters.
We summarise below the key audit matters in forming our opinion above, together with an overview of the
principal audit procedures performed to address each matter and our key observations arising from those
procedures. The matters set out below are in addition to going concern which is set out in the “Conclusions
relating to going concern” section above, was also identified as a key audit matter.
These matters, together with our findings, were communicated to those charged with governance through
our Audit Completion Report.
Key Audit Matter
How our scope addressed this matter
Revenue recognition (Group)
The Group’s accounting policy in respect of revenue recognition is set out in note 1(j) ‘Revenue recognition’ on
page 96. Revenue recognition on tooling contracts has been identified as a key judgement in note 2 on page 101.
Revenue recognised on tooling contracts in the year is £21.6m as set out in note 5 on page 107.
There is a presumed significant risk of fraud in revenue recognition due to the potential to inappropriately shift the
timing and basis of revenue recognition, as well as the potential to record fictitious revenues or fail to record actual
revenues.
For the Group, we consider this risk to arise as follows:
In relation to tooling revenue:
tooling revenue may not be recognised on an appropriate basis and in line with the terms of underlying
contracts or agreements with customers; and
any contract modifications or amendments may not be accounted for on an appropriate basis, including in
line with the requirements of IFRS 15.
There is a risk that revenue is recognised in the incorrect accounting period, due to the potential to
inappropriately shift the timing and basis of revenue recognition, including the recognition of revenue before
services or products have been provided to customers.
As revenue is a key benchmark in a user’s assessment of the performance of the Group and given the judgement
involved in determining the amount of revenue to be recognised on tooling contracts, we have identified revenue
recognition as a key audit matter.
Our response
Our audit procedures included, but were not limited to:
performing testing of the design and implementation of controls around revenue recognition;
in relation to tooling revenue:
reviewing management’s IFRS 15 assessment for tooling contracts detailing the identification of
performance obligations and assessment of point in time versus over time revenue recognition along with
considerations of input versus output method and agent versus principal;
for a sample of tooling contracts reviewing the basis of revenue recognition and testing the revenue
recognised in the year;
reviewing contract modifications or cancelations and the associated accounting treatment for changes in
contract revenue;
in relation to non-tooling revenue, which is recognised at a point in time;
performing substantive analytical review procedures, including setting an expectation for revenue based
on cash received in bank statements and comparing this to actual revenue recognised in the year;
substantive sample testing of revenue transactions either side of the year end. For each item selected, we
assessed the timing of revenue recognition by reference to underlying supporting documentation; and
reviewing the audit work completed on revenue by the component auditors in accordance with our instructions.
Our observations
The methodology used in determining the recognition of the Group’s revenue was appropriate and whilst certain
misstatements were noted, these were below our materiality threshold and management has decided to leave
these as unadjusted.
81
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Key audit matters
continued
Independent auditor’s report
continued
to the members of Carclo plc
Key Audit Matter
How our scope addressed this matter
Valuation and impairment of intangible assets (Group)
Included on the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position on page 90 is £22.2m of intangible assets, of which
£22m relates to goodwill allocated to the Technical Plastics cash generating unit (CGU).
The Group’s accounting policies in respect of goodwill are set out in note 1(c) ‘Goodwill’ on page 94 and note
1(v) ‘Impairment’ on page 99. Impairment of goodwill has also been identified as a key judgement in note 2 on
page 100.
The directors are required to perform an impairment review in respect of the goodwill on an annual basis or where
there are indicators of impairment. This involves determining the recoverable amount of the CGU to which the
goodwill has been allocated and comparing it against its carrying value, with any impairment loss first allocated to
reduce the carrying value of the goodwill and then to reduce the carrying amount of the other assets in the CGU
on a pro-rata basis.
As disclosed in note 13 on page 116, the recoverable amount is based on a calculation of value in use.
The calculation of value in use is subjective and involves significant judgement and estimation, including cash flow
projections and discount rates. Therefore, there is a risk that the assumptions used in the calculation of value in
use are not appropriate, resulting in an overstatement of the recoverable amount of the CGU and an unrecognised
impairment of intangible assets.
Accordingly, we identified the valuation and impairment of intangible assets as a key audit matter.
Our response
Our audit procedures included, but were not limited to:
performing testing of the design and implementation of controls around the valuation and impairment of
intangible assets;
obtaining and reviewing management’s impairment review (which includes a formal paper and relevant
underlying workings) and conduct interviews with them to understand the basis and process for assessing
impairment;
reviewing and evaluating the basis for grouping entities together as a CGU in the impairment review;
reviewing the arithmetic accuracy of the impairment model prepared by management, including checking the
data used in the calculation of value in use;
considering the appropriateness of the key assumptions used in the calculation of value in use, being the cash
flow projections, estimated growth rates and discount rates. This included engaging an internal expert to
evaluate the discount rates applied by management;
reviewing the sensitivity analysis performed by management in their assessment;
challenging management on the achievability of the cash flow forecasts and assess the appropriateness of the
projected financial information against original forecasts and other market data to assess the robustness of
management’s forecasting process;
analysing the historical accuracy of budgets to actual results to determine whether forecast cash flows are
reliable based on past experience; and
assessing whether the disclosures in the financial statements are reasonable, including around the key
assumptions, key sources of estimation uncertainty and sensitivity of the key assumptions in the impairment
assessment.
Our observations
Whilst management’s impairment model remains highly sensitive, and shows a small headroom, the methodology
used for the valuation and for the impairment review of intangible assets and goodwill was appropriate.
82
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Independent auditor’s report
continued
to the members of Carclo plc
Key audit matters
continued
Key Audit Matter
How our scope addressed this matter
Valuation and impairment of investment in subsidiaries
(Parent Company)
The carrying value of investments in subsidiary undertakings on the Company Balance Sheet on page 149
is £77.5m (2023: £83.5m). During the year an impairment of £6.0m has been recognised in respect of the
investment that Company holds in the CTP entity in India.
As set out in the accounting policy in note 33(c) on page 154, investments are held at cost less provisions for
impairment where appropriate.
There is a risk that investments in subsidiary undertakings are impaired where there are indicators of impairment
in the underlying subsidiaries not identified by management, including a risk that the net assets or earnings do not
support the carrying value.
As set out in note 37 on page 157, value in use models have been used by management to assess the recoverable
amount of investments in the material trading subsidiaries. The calculation of value in use is subjective and involves
significant judgement and estimation, including in relation to projected cash flows and discount rates.
As a result of the factors outlined above, as well as the significance of this balance in respect of the Parent
Company financial statements, we identified the valuation and impairment of subsidiaries as a key audit matter.
Our response
Our audit procedures included, but were not limited to:
performing testing of the design and implementation of controls around the valuation and impairment of
investment in subsidiaries;
challenging management on their identification of indicators of impairment in light of our understanding of the
business and our review of the performance of the subsidiaries;
obtaining and reviewing management’s impairment reviews;
reviewing the valuation methodologies applied by management and providing an assessment of their
appropriateness for the respective investment and carrying amount of the assets recognised. This included
engaging an internal expert to evaluate the discount rates applied by management;
reviewing and checking the net book value of the individual investments used in the impairment review;
challenging the commercial plans that are driving the margins and estimated future turnover in light of historical
performance, industry growth and management’s performance to date;
testing individual investments for further indicators of impairment, including by comparing the carrying amount
of the investment to the net assets/liabilities of the related subsidiary (being an approximation of the minimum
recoverable amount);
concluding on whether management’s assessment of an impairment or headroom is appropriate; and
assessing whether the relevant disclosures in the financial statements are reasonable.
Our observations
The methodology used for the valuation and for the impairment review of investments in subsidiaries was
appropriate and accordingly an impairment of £6.0m has been booked during the year (refer also to note 37).
83
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Our application of materiality and an overview of the scope of our audit
The scope of our audit was influenced by our application of materiality. We set certain quantitative
thresholds for materiality. These, together with qualitative considerations, helped us to determine the scope
of our audit and the nature, timing and extent of our audit procedures on the individual financial statement
line items and disclosures and in evaluating the effect of misstatements, both individually and on the
financial statements as a whole. Based on our professional judgement, we determined materiality for the
financial statements as a whole as follows:
Group materiality
Overall materiality
£1,285k
How we determined it
We determined overall materiality to be 1% of the Group’s revenue.
Rationale for benchmark applied
Revenue has been identified as the principal benchmark within
the Group financial statements as we consider that the Group’s
revenue remains a key measure of the performance of the Group
and is a more stable benchmark on which to set materiality
compared to other measures. For example, profit/loss before
taxation fluctuates and has been significantly impacted by a
number of one-off items such as restructuring that have taken
place in current year and over the last few years.
Performance materiality
Performance materiality is set to reduce to an appropriately low level
the probability that the aggregate of uncorrected and undetected
misstatements in the financial statements exceeds materiality for the
financial statements as a whole. Having considered factors such as
the Group’s control environment and that it is the fifth year of our
audit engagement, we set performance materiality at £835k which is
65% of overall materiality.
Reporting threshold
We agreed with the directors that we would report to them
misstatements identified during our audit above £39k as well as
misstatements below that amount that, in our view, warranted
reporting for qualitative reasons.
The range of overall materiality across components, audited to the lower of statutory audit materiality
and materiality capped for Group audit purposes, was between £175k and £1,000k, being all below Group
overall materiality.
Parent Company materiality
Overall materiality
£506k
How we determined it
We determined overall materiality to be 0.5% of total assets.
Rationale for benchmark applied
The company does not trade and acts as a holding company.
Therefore, the company has a significant investment in subsidiaries
which is the main balance on its statement of financial position and
deemed to be the key interest to users of the Company financial
statements.
Performance materiality
Performance materiality is set to reduce to an appropriately
low level the probability that the aggregate of uncorrected and
undetected misstatements in the financial statements exceeds
materiality for the financial statements as a whole. Having
considered factors such as the Parent Company’s control
environment and that it is the fifth year of our audit engagement,
we set performance materiality at £330k which is 65% of overall
materiality.
Reporting threshold
We agreed with the directors that we would report to them
misstatements identified during our audit above £15k as well as
misstatements below that amount that, in our view, warranted
reporting for qualitative reasons.
As part of designing our audit, we assessed the risk of material misstatement in the financial statements,
whether due to fraud or error, and then designed and performed audit procedures responsive to those
risks. In particular, we looked at where the directors made subjective judgements, such as assumptions on
significant accounting estimates.
We tailored the scope of our audit to ensure that we performed sufficient work to be able to give an opinion
on the financial statements as a whole. We used the outputs of our risk assessment, our understanding
of the Group and the Parent Company, their environment, controls, and critical business processes, to
consider qualitative factors to ensure that we obtained sufficient coverage across all financial statement
line items.
Our Group audit scope included an audit of the Group and the Parent Company financial statements of
Carclo plc. Based on our risk assessment, of the Group’s nine reporting components, seven were subject
to full scope audits for Group purposes and two were subject to specified risk-focused audit procedures.
For the other non-trading entities within the Group, we performed substantive analytical procedures at an
aggregated Group level to assess whether there were any significant risks of material misstatement within
these entities.
Independent auditor’s report
continued
to the members of Carclo plc
84
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Parent Company materiality
continued
In addition to the Parent Company financial statements, which were subject to full scope audit, the
components within the scope of our audit work accounted for the following percentages of the
Group’s results:
Number of
components
Total Group
revenue
Group loss
before tax
Total Group
assets
Full scope
7
92%
167%
92%
Risk based audit procedures
2
8%
-67%
8%
Total
9
100%
100%
100%
The audit of the UK components, including the audit of the Parent Company, were undertaken by the
Group audit team. The Group audit team instructed component auditors to carry out audit procedures in
relation to components not based in the UK, covering the US, China, India, France and the Czech Republic.
The instructions covered the significant areas of audit focus including, where relevant, the key audit matters
detailed above and the information to be reported back to the Group audit team. Additionally, key areas of
audit work completed by component auditors was reviewed by the Group audit team. All work carried out
by the US team was reviewed in detail by the Group audit team. The Group audit team approved all of the
significant component materiality levels.
As part of the process, the Group audit team held meetings with the component auditors at both the
planning and completion stage, as well as during the audit fieldwork as required. At these meetings, the
Group audit team discussed the audit strategy and the findings reported to the Group audit team by the
component auditors, with any further work required by the Group audit team then being performed by the
component auditor, as required.
At the Parent Company level, we also tested the consolidation process and carried out analytical
procedures to confirm our conclusion that there were no significant risks of material misstatement of the
aggregated financial information.
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 our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.
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 course of audit
or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent
material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in
the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a
material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.
We have nothing to report in this regard.
Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006
In our opinion, the part of the directors’ remuneration report to be audited has been properly prepared
in accordance with 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 those reports
have been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements;
the information about internal control and risk management systems in relation to financial reporting
processes and about share capital structures, given in compliance with rules 7.2.5 and 7.2.6 in the
Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules sourcebook made by the Financial Conduct Authority
(the FCA Rules), is consistent with the financial statements and has been prepared in accordance with
applicable legal requirements; and
information about the Parent Company’s corporate governance code and practices and about its
administrative, management and supervisory bodies and their committees complies with rules 7.2.2,
7.2.3 and 7.2.7 of the FCA Rules.
Matters on which we are required to report by exception
In light of the knowledge and understanding of the Group and the Parent Company and their environment
obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the:
the Strategic report or the Directors’ report; or
information about internal control and risk management systems in relation to financial reporting
processes and about share capital structures, given in compliance with rules 7.2.5 and 7.2.6 of the
FCA Rules.
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 and the part of the directors’ remuneration report to
be audited are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or
certain disclosures of directors’ remuneration specified by law are not made; or
we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit; or
a corporate governance statement has not been prepared by the Parent Company.
Independent auditor’s report
continued
to the members of Carclo plc
85
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Corporate governance statement
The Listing Rules require us to review the directors’ statement in relation to going concern, longer-term
viability and that part of the Corporate Governance Statement relating to Carclo Plc’s compliance with
the provisions of the UK Corporate Governance Statement specified for our review.
Based on the work undertaken as part of our audit, we have concluded that each of the following
elements of the Corporate Governance Statement is materially consistent with the financial statements,
or our knowledge obtained during the audit:
Directors’ statement with regards the appropriateness of adopting the going concern basis of
accounting and any material uncertainties identified, set out on page 79;
Directors’ explanation as to its assessment of the entity’s prospects, the period this assessment
covers and why they period is appropriate, set out on page 43;
Directors’ statement on fair, balanced and understandable, set out on page 79;
Board’s confirmation that it has carried out a robust assessment of the emerging and principal risks,
set out on pages 37 to 42;
The section of the annual report that describes the review of effectiveness of risk management and
internal control systems, set out on page 50; and;
The section describing the work of the audit committee, set out on pages 51 to 53.
Responsibilities of Directors
As explained more fully in the directors’ responsibilities statement set out on page 79, 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’s and the
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.
The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below.
Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design
procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect
of irregularities, including fraud.
Based on our understanding of the Group and the Parent Company and their industry, we have considered
that non-compliance with the following laws and regulations might have a material effect on the financial
statements: employment regulation, health and safety regulation, anti-bribery, corruption and fraud,
anti-money laundering regulation, modern slavery, and GDPR.
To help us identify instances of non-compliance with these laws and regulations, and in identifying and
assessing the risks of material misstatement in respect to non-compliance, our procedures included, but
were not limited to:
Gaining an understanding of the legal and regulatory framework applicable to the Group and the Parent
Company, the industry in which they operate, and the structure of the Group, and considering the risk of
acts by the Group and the Parent Company which were contrary to the applicable laws and regulations,
including fraud;
Inquiring of the directors, management and, where appropriate, those charged with governance, as to
whether the Group and the Parent Company is in compliance with laws and regulations, and discussing
their policies and procedures regarding compliance with laws and regulations. These inquiries also
extended to component auditors and inhouse and external legal counsels where appropriate;
Inspecting correspondence with relevant licensing or regulatory authorities;
Reviewing minutes of directors’ meetings in the year; and
Discussing amongst the engagement team the laws and regulations listed above and remaining alert
to any indications of non-compliance.
We also considered those laws and regulations that have a direct effect on the preparation of the financial
statements, such as tax legislation, pension legislation, the Companies Act 2006 and breaches of the
regulatory requirements of the FCA.
In addition, we evaluated the directors’ and management’s incentives and opportunities for fraudulent
manipulation of the financial statements, including the risk of management override of controls, and
determined that the principal risks related to posting manual journal entries to manipulate financial
performance, management bias through judgements and assumptions in significant accounting estimates,
in particular in relation to the valuation and impairment of intangible assets and goodwill and the valuation
and impairment of investment in subsidiaries, revenue recognition (which we pinpointed to the cut-off
and occurrence assertions) and significant one-off or unusual transactions.
Our procedures in relation to fraud included but were not limited to:
Making enquiries of the directors and management on whether they had knowledge of any actual,
suspected or alleged fraud;
Gaining an understanding of the internal controls established to mitigate risks related to fraud;
Discussing amongst the engagement team the risks of fraud;
Addressing the risks of fraud through management override of controls by performing journal entry
testing, including consolidation journals;
Reviewing accounting estimates and financial statement disclosures for management bias; and
Reviewing transactions outside of normal course of business.
Independent auditor’s report
continued
to the members of Carclo plc
86
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements
continued
The primary responsibility for the prevention and detection of irregularities, including fraud, rests with both
those charged with governance and management. As with any audit, there remained a risk of non-detection
of irregularities, as these may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations or the
override of internal controls.
The risks of material misstatement that had the greatest effect on our audit are discussed in the “Key audit
matters” section of this report.
A further description of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at
www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities
. This description forms part of our auditor’s report.
Other matters which we are required to address
Following the recommendation of the Audit Committee, we were appointed by the Board of Directors
on 14 April 2020 to audit the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2020 and subsequent
financial periods. The period of total uninterrupted engagement is five years, covering the years ended
31 March 2020 to 31 March 2024.
The non-audit services prohibited by the FRC’s Ethical Standard were not provided to the Group or
the Parent Company and we remain independent of the Group and the Parent Company in conducting
our audit.
Our audit opinion is consistent with the additional report to the Audit Committee.
Use of the audit 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.
As required by the Financial Conduct Authority Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rule 4.1.14R,
these financial statements form part of the ESEF-prepared annual report filed on the National Storage
Mechanism of the Financial Conduct Authority in accordance with the ESEF Regulatory Technical Standard
(‘ESEF RTS’). This auditor’s report provides no assurance over whether the annual report has been
prepared using the single electronic format specified in the ESEF RTS.
Gavin Barclay (Senior Statutory Auditor)
For and on behalf of Forvis Mazars LLP
Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditor
30 Old Bailey
London
EC4M 7AU
26 July 2024
Independent auditor’s report
continued
to the members of Carclo plc
87
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Consolidated income statement
for the year ended 31 March 2024
Notes
2024
£000
2023
£000
Continuing operations:
Revenue
5
132,672
143,445
Underlying operating profit
1
6,647
5,939
Exceptional items
8
(4,857)
(4,710)
Operating profit
3, 6
1,790
1,229
Finance revenue
9
424
218
Finance expense
9
(6,011)
(3,967)
Loss before tax
(3,797)
(2,520)
Income tax credit/(expense)
10
498
(1,437)
Loss for the period
(3,299)
(3,957)
Attributable to:
Equity holders of the Company
(3,299)
(3,957)
Non-controlling interests
(3,299)
(3,957)
Loss per ordinary share
11
Basic
(4.5)p
(5.4)p
Diluted
(4.5)p
(5.4)p
1.
See the glossary on page 167.
88
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income
for the year ended 31 March 2024
2024
£000
2023
£000
Loss for the period
(3,299)
(3,957)
Other comprehensive (expense)/income
Items that will not be reclassified to the income statement
Remeasurement losses on defined benefit scheme
(2,668)
(10,577)
Deferred tax arising
Total items that will not be reclassified to the income statement
(2,668)
(10,577)
Items that are or may in the future be reclassified to the income statement
Foreign exchange translation differences
(2,387)
1,129
Net investment hedge
332
818
Deferred tax arising
33
(190)
Total items that are or may in the future be reclassified to the income statement
(2,022)
1,757
Other comprehensive expense, net of tax
(4,690)
(8,820)
Total comprehensive expense for the year
(7,989)
(12,777)
Attributable to:
Equity holders of the Company
(7,989)
(12,777)
Non-controlling interests
Total comprehensive expense for the period
(7,989)
(12,777)
89
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes
2024
£000
2023
£000
Non-current assets
Intangible assets
13
22,197
23,463
Property, plant and equipment
14
40,071
45,321
Deferred tax assets
21
864
1,185
Total non-current assets
63,132
69,969
Current assets
Inventories
15
11,289
15,203
Contract assets
16
1,663
5,763
Trade and other receivables
17
18,800
21,383
Cash and cash deposits
18
5,974
10,354
Current tax assets
82
Total current assets
37,808
52,703
Total assets
100,940
122,672
Current liabilities
Loans and borrowings
20
6,753
5,046
Trade payables
24
10,005
13,085
Other payables
7,485
8,323
Current tax liabilities
564
372
Contract liabilities
5
2,998
4,689
Provisions
23
721
473
Total current liabilities
28,526
31,988
Notes
2024
£000
2023
£000
Non-current liabilities
Loans and borrowings
20
28,678
39,668
Deferred tax liabilities
21
2,890
4,917
Retirement benefit obligations
22
37,186
34,493
Total non-current liabilities
68,754
79,078
Total liabilities
97,280
111,066
Net assets
3,660
11,606
Equity
Ordinary share capital issued
25
3,671
3,671
Share premium
7,359
7,359
Translation reserve
26
7,221
9,243
Retained earnings
26
(14,565)
(8,641)
Total equity attributable to equity holders of
the Company
3,686
11,632
Non-controlling interests
(26)
(26)
Total equity
3,660
11,606
Approved by the Board of Directors on 26 July 2024 and signed on its behalf by:
Frank Doorenbosch
Eric Hutchinson
Director
Director
Registered Number 00196249
Consolidated statement of financial position
as at 31 March 2024
90
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Attributable to equity holders of the Company
Share
capital
£000
Share
premium
£000
Translation
reserve
£000
Retained
earnings
£000
Total
£000
Non-controlling
interests
£000
Total
equity
£000
Balance at 1 April 2022
3,671
7,359
7,486
5,926
24,442
(26)
24,416
Loss for the year
(3,957)
(3,957)
(3,957)
Other comprehensive income/(expense):
Foreign exchange translation differences
1,129
1,129
1,129
Net investment hedge
818
818
818
Remeasurement losses on defined benefit scheme
(10,577)
(10,577)
(10,577)
Taxation on items above
(190)
(190)
(190)
Total comprehensive income/(expense) for the period
1,757
(14,534)
(12,777)
(12,777)
Transactions with owners recorded directly in equity:
Share-based payments
(33)
(33)
(33)
Taxation on items recorded directly in equity
Balance at 31 March 2023
3,671
7,359
9,243
(8,641)
11,632
(26)
11,606
Balance at 1 April 2023
3,671
7,359
9,243
(8,641)
11,632
(26)
11,606
Loss for the year
(3,299)
(3,299)
(3,299)
Other comprehensive (expense)/income:
Foreign exchange translation differences
(2,387)
(2,387)
(2,387)
Net investment hedge
332
332
332
Remeasurement losses on defined benefit scheme
(2,668)
(2,668)
(2,668)
Taxation on items above
33
33
33
Total comprehensive expense for the period
(2,022)
(5,967)
(7,989)
(7,989)
Transactions with owners recorded directly in equity:
Share-based payments
43
43
43
Taxation on items recorded directly in equity
Balance at 31 March 2024
3,671
7,359
7,221
(14,565)
3,686
(26)
3,660
Consolidated statement of changes in equity
for the year ended 31 March 2024
91
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes
2024
£000
2023
£000
Cash generated from operations
28
15,615
7,778
Interest paid
(4,193)
(2,955)
Tax paid
(1,056)
(1,051)
Net cash from operating activities
10,366
3,772
Cash flows from/(used in) investing activities
Proceeds from sale of intangible assets
212
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment
1,390
Interest received
424
218
Purchase of property, plant and equipment
(2,937)
(2,313)
Purchase of intangible assets
(95)
(104)
Net cash used in investing activities
(2,396)
(809)
Cash flows from/(used in) financing activities
Drawings on new and existing facilities
359
Refinancing costs
(100)
(250)
Proceeds from sale and leaseback of property, plant and equipment
1,222
Repayment of borrowings excluding lease liabilities
(8,190)
(1,800)
Repayment of other loan facilities
(192)
(102)
Repayment of lease liabilities
(3,659)
(4,104)
Net cash used in financing activities
(12,141)
(4,675)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
(4,171)
(1,712)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
10,354
12,347
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash held
(209)
(281)
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
5,974
10,354
Cash and cash equivalents comprise:
Cash and cash deposits
5,974
10,354
5,974
10,354
Consolidated statement of cash flows
for the year ended 31 March 2024
92
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
93
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
1 Basis of preparation
The Group financial statements have been prepared and approved by the Directors in accordance
with UK-adopted international accounting standards. The Company has elected to prepare its parent
company financial statements in accordance with FRS 101; these are presented on pages 149 to 162. The
presentational currency of these financial statements is GBP, with amounts presented in round thousands,
except where otherwise stated.
The accounting policies have been applied consistently to all periods presented in the consolidated financial
statements, unless otherwise stated.
Judgements made by the Directors in the application of these accounting policies that have a significant
effect on the financial statements and estimates with a significant risk of material adjustment in the next
year are discussed in note 2.
Going concern
The financial statements are prepared on the going concern basis.
On 5 July 2024 the Group’s lending bank extended the committed facilities to 31 December 2025. Since
the year end, the Company has commenced a process to refinance the existing term loans and revolving
credit facilities in order to provide the strategic funding for the next phase of the business development.
Other than mentioned, since the year end there have been no significant changes to the Group’s liquidity
position.
As part of the original bank financing in August 2020, the Group became subject to four bank facility
covenant tests. The quarterly covenants, and levels, to be tested are:
underlying interest cover (minimum 1.45 in March 2024, increasing to 2.60 by December 2025);
net debt to underlying EBITDA (2.75 maximum);
core subsidiary underlying EBITA (50% minimum); and
core subsidiary revenue (75% minimum).
Core subsidiaries are defined as Carclo Technical Plastics Ltd; Bruntons Aero Products Ltd; Carclo
Technical Plastics (Brno) s.r.o; CTP Carrera Inc and Jacottet Industrie SAS, with CTP Taicang Co. Ltd and
Carclo Technical Plastics Pvt Co Ltd being treated as non-core for the purposes of these covenants.
A schedule of contributions is also in place with the pension trustees with an agreed £3.5m to be paid
annually until 31 October 2039. Additional contributions also agreed are 26% of any FY25 surplus over
underlying EBITDA of £18.0m.
The Group is subject to a number of key risks and uncertainties, as detailed in the Principal risks and
uncertainties section on pages 37 to 42. Mitigation actions are also considered in this section. These risks
and uncertainties have been considered in the base case and severe downside sensitivities and have been
modelled accordingly.
The Directors have reviewed cash flow and covenant forecasts to cover the period of at least twelve months
from the date of signing these consolidated financial statements considering the Group’s available debt
facilities and the terms of the arrangements with the Group’s bank and the Group pension scheme.
The base case forecast includes assumptions around revenue, margins, working capital and interest rates.
The sensitivity analysis has considered the risks facing the Group and has modelled the impact of each in
turn, as well as considering the impact of aggregating certain risk types, and shows that the Group is able to
operate within its available facilities and meet its agreed covenants as they arise.
Furthermore, the Directors have reviewed sensitivity testing, modelling a range of severe downside
scenarios. These sensitivities attempt to incorporate identified risks set out in the Principal risks
and uncertainties section of this report.
Severe downside sensitivities modelled included a range of scenarios modelling the financial effects of: loss
of business from discrete sites, an overall fall in gross margin of 1% across the Group, a fall in Group revenue
of 3% matched by a corresponding fall in cost of sales of the same amount, and interest rate risk. Under
these scenarios the Group would continue to meet minimum covenant requirements, although with minimal
headroom under these scenarios in the next twelve months. The downside testing did not allow for the
benefit of any action that could be taken by management to mitigate the impact of the scenarios. Using the
base case forecast the minimal underlying operating profit headroom, observed on the underlying interest
cover covenant, would be £0.8m. This suggests that a £16m drop in revenue or a 12% drop in underlying
operating profit would result in a breach of covenants.
The Group is not exposed to vulnerable sectors or vulnerable countries but is dependent on certain key
customers, which create risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties are documented, and the
mitigating actions being taken are covered in detail in the Principal risks and uncertainties section, on pages
37 to 42.
On the basis of this forecast and sensitivity testing, the Board has determined that it is reasonable to
assume that the Group will continue to operate within the facilities available and will be able to adhere to the
covenant tests to which it is subject throughout at least the twelve-month period from the date of signing
the financial statements.
Accordingly, these financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis.
New standards, amendments and interpretations
Certain new standards, amendments and interpretations to existing standards have been published that
are mandatory for the Group’s accounting period beginning on or after 1 April 2023. The following new
standards and amendments to standards are mandatory and have been adopted for the first time for the
financial year beginning 1 April 2023:
IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements and IFRS Practice Statement 2 Making Material Judgements
(Amendment): Disclosure of accounting policies (effective date 1 January 2023);
IAS 8 Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors (Amendment): Definition of
accounting estimates (effective date 1 January 2023);
IAS 12 Income Taxes: Deferred tax related to assets and liabilities arising from a single transaction
(effective 1 January 2023);
IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts (issued May 2017) and Amendments to IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts
(effective date 1 January 2023);
Amendments to IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts: Initial Application of IFRS 17 and IFRS 9 – Comparative
Information (effective date 1 January 2023); and
Amendments to IAS 12 Income Taxes: International Tax Reform - Pillar Two Model Rules (effective date
1 January 2023).
These standards have not had a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.
Certain new standards, amendments and interpretations to existing standards have been published that are
mandatory for the accounting period beginning on or after 1 April 2024.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
94
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
1 Basis of preparation
continued
New standards, amendments and interpretations
continued
The Group has elected not to early adopt these standards which are described below.
IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements (Amendment): Classification of liabilities as current or
non-current (effective 1 January 2024);
IFRS 16 Leases (Amendment): Lease liability in a sale and leaseback;
IAS 7 Statement of Cash Flows and IFRS 7 Financial Instruments (Disclosures) (Amendments): Supplier
Finance Arrangements (effective 1 January 2024); and
Amendments to IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements - Non-current Liabilities with Covenants
(effective date 1 January 2024).
The above are not expected to have a material impact on the Group’s results or net assets.
There are no other IFRS or IFRIC interpretations which are endorsed by the UK Endorsement Board, that
are not yet effective that would be expected to have a material impact on the Group.
Accounting policies
a) Basis of accounting
The financial statements are prepared on the historical cost basis except that derivative financial
instruments, share options and defined benefit pension plan assets are stated at their fair value.
Non-current assets and disposal groups held for sale are stated at the lower of carrying amount and fair
value less costs to sell.
b) Basis of consolidation
The Group financial statements consolidate those of the Company and its subsidiaries (together referred
to as the “Group”). The parent company financial statements present information about the Company as a
separate entity and not about its group. The results of any subsidiaries sold or acquired are included in the
consolidated income statement up to, or from, the date control passes. Intra-group transactions, balances
and profits are eliminated fully on consolidation. On acquisition of a subsidiary, all of the identifiable assets
and liabilities existing at the date of acquisition are recorded at their fair values reflecting their condition at
that date.
i) Business combinations
Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method as at the acquisition date, which
is the date on which control is transferred to the Group. Control is the power to govern the financial and
operating policies of an entity so as to obtain benefits from its activities. In assessing control, the Group
takes into consideration potential voting rights that currently are exercisable.
The Group measures goodwill at the acquisition date as:
the fair value of the consideration transferred; plus
the recognised amount of any non-controlling interests in the acquiree; plusif the business combination
is achieved in stages, the fair value of the pre-existing equity interest in
the acquiree; less
the net recognised amount of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed.
Any contingent consideration payable is recognised at fair value at the acquisition date. If the contingent
consideration is classified as equity, it is not remeasured and settlement is accounted for within equity.
Otherwise, subsequent changes to the fair value of the contingent consideration are recognised in
profit or loss.
The consideration transferred does not include amounts related to the settlement of pre-existing
relationships. Such amounts are generally recognised in profit or loss.
Transaction costs other than those associated with the issue of debt or equity securities, that the Group
incurs in connection with a business combination, are expensed as incurred.
ii) Acquisitions of non-controlling interests
Acquisitions of non-controlling interests are accounted for as transactions with owners in their capacity as
owners and therefore no goodwill is recognised as a result. Adjustments to non-controlling interests arising
from transactions that do not involve the loss of control are based on a proportionate amount of the net
assets of the subsidiary.
c) Goodwill
In respect of business combinations that occurred since 1 April 2004, goodwill arising on consolidation
represents the excess of the fair value of the consideration given over the fair value of the identifiable net
assets acquired. Goodwill arising on acquisition of subsidiaries, joint ventures and businesses is capitalised
as an asset.
In accordance with IFRS 1 and IFRS 3, goodwill at 1 April 2004 has been frozen and will not be amortised.
Goodwill is allocated to cash generating units and is subject to an annual impairment review, with any
impairment losses being recognised immediately in the income statement.
Any goodwill arising on the acquisition of an overseas subsidiary is retranslated at the balance sheet date.
d) Other intangible assets
Intangible assets that are acquired by the Group are stated at cost less accumulated amortisation (see
accounting policy e) and impairment losses (see accounting policy v).
Expenditure on research activities, undertaken with the prospect of gaining new scientific or technical
knowledge and understanding, is recognised in the income statement as an expense as incurred.
Expenditure on development activities, whereby research findings are applied to a plan or design for the
production of new or substantially improved products and processes, is capitalised if the product or process
is technically and commercially feasible and the Group has sufficient resources to complete development.
The expenditure capitalised includes the cost of materials, direct labour and an appropriate proportion
of overheads. Other development expenditure is recognised in the income statement as an expense
as incurred. Capitalised development expenditure is stated at cost less accumulated amortisation (see
accounting policy e) and impairment losses (see accounting policy v).
Expenditure on internally generated goodwill and brands is recognised in the income statement as an
expense as incurred.
Subsequent expenditure on capitalised intangible assets is capitalised only when it increases the future
economic benefits embodied in the specific asset to which it relates. All other expenditure is expensed
as incurred.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
95
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
1 Basis of preparation
continued
Accounting policies
continued
e) Amortisation
Intangible assets, other than goodwill, are amortised on a straight-line basis to write off the cost of
the asset, less estimated residual value, over the estimated economic life of the asset. Patents and
development costs are amortised over a period of up to ten years from the date upon which the patent or
related development expenditure becomes available for use. Customer-related intangibles are amortised
over seven to ten years and computer software over three to five years.
f) Property, plant and equipment
The Group has taken the option provided by IFRS 1 to use its previous UK GAAP valuation as “deemed
cost”. Items of property, plant and equipment are stated at cost, or at deemed cost, less accumulated
depreciation and impairment losses.
Depreciation on property, plant and equipment is provided using the straight-line method to write off the
cost or valuation less estimated residual value, using the following depreciation rates:
Freehold buildings
2.0%-5.0%
Plant and equipment
8.33%-33.33%
No depreciation is provided on freehold land.
g) Leases
At inception of a contract, the Group assesses whether a contract is, or contains, a lease. A contract is, or
contains, a lease if the contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of
time in exchange for consideration. To assess whether a contract conveys the right to control the use of an
identified asset, the Group uses the definition of a lease in IFRS 16.
As a lessee
At commencement or on modification of a contract that contains a lease component, the Group allocates
the consideration in the contract to each lease component on the basis of its relative standalone prices.
However, for the leases of property, the Group has elected not to separate non-lease components and
account for the lease and non-lease components as a single lease component.
The Group recognises a right-of-use asset and a lease liability at the lease commencement date.
The right-of-use asset is initially measured at cost, which comprises the initial amount of the lease liability
adjusted for any lease payments made at or before the commencement date, plus any initial direct costs
incurred and an estimate of costs to dismantle and remove the underlying asset or to restore the underlying
asset or the site on which it is located, less any lease incentives received.
The right-of-use asset is subsequently depreciated using the straight-line method from the
commencement date to the end of the lease term, unless the lease transfers ownership of the underlying
asset to the Group by the end of the lease term or the cost of the right-of-use asset reflects that the Group
will exercise a purchase option. In that case the right-of-use asset will be depreciated over the useful life of
the underlying asset, which is determined on the same basis as those of property, plant and equipment. In
addition, the right-of-use asset is periodically reduced by impairment losses, if any, and adjusted for certain
remeasurements of the lease liability.
The lease liability is initially measured at the present value of the lease payments that are not paid at the
commencement date, discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease or, if that rate cannot be readily
determined, the Group’s incremental borrowing rate. Generally, the Group uses its incremental borrowing
rate as the discount rate.
The Group determines its incremental borrowing rate by obtaining interest rates from various external
financing sources and makes certain adjustments to reflect the terms of the lease and the type of
asset leased.
Lease payments included in the measurement of the lease liability comprise the following:
fixed payments, including in-substance fixed payments;
variable lease payments that depend on an index or a rate, initially measured using the index or rate as
at the commencement date;
amounts expected to be payable under a residual value guarantee; and
the exercise price under a purchase option that the Group is reasonably certain to exercise, lease
payments in an optional renewal period if the Group is reasonably certain to exercise an extension
option, and penalties for early termination of a lease unless the Group is reasonably certain not to
terminate early.
The lease liability is measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. It is remeasured when
there is a change in future lease payments arising from a change in an index or rate, if there is a change in
the Group’s estimate of the amount expected to be payable under a residual value guarantee, if the Group
changes its assessment of whether it will exercise a purchase, extension or termination option or if there is a
revised in-substance fixed lease payment.
When the lease liability is remeasured in this way, a corresponding adjustment is made to the carrying
amount of the right-of-use asset, or is recorded in profit or loss if the carrying amount of the right-of-use
asset has been reduced to zero.
The Group presents right-of-use assets in “property, plant and equipment” and lease liabilities in “loans and
borrowings” in the statement of financial position.
Short-term leases and leases of low-value assets
The Group leases office and IT equipment with contract terms typically between one and ten years. The
Group has elected not to recognise right-of-use assets and lease liabilities for leases of low-value assets
and short-term leases with a duration of one year or less. The Group recognises the lease payments
associated with these leases in the income statement as an expense on a straight-line basis over the
lease term.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
96
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
1 Basis of preparation
continued
Accounting policies
continued
h) Borrowings
The Group measures all debt instruments (whether financial assets or liabilities) initially at fair value, which
equates to the principal value of the consideration paid or received. Subsequent to initial measurement,
debt instruments are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. Transaction costs
(any such costs incremental and directly attributable to the issue of the financial instrument) are included in
the calculation of the effective interest rate and are amortised over the life of the instrument.
Debt instruments denominated in foreign currencies are revalued using period end exchange rates, see
accounting policy t)v, for the Group hedge accounting policy.
Borrowings are classified as current liabilities unless the Group has an unconditional right to defer
settlement of the liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period.
i) Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Net realisable value is the estimated
selling price in the ordinary course of business, less the estimated costs of completion and selling
expenses. The cost of inventory is based on the first-in first-out principle and includes expenditure incurred
in acquiring the inventories and bringing them to their existing location and condition. In the case of
manufactured inventories and work in progress, cost includes an appropriate share of overheads based on
normal operating capacity.
j) Revenue recognition
Revenue arises on the Group’s principal activities. Further details are set out in note 5.
To determine whether to recognise revenue, the Group follows the five-step process as prescribed in
IFRS 15:
1.
identifying the contract with a customer;
2.
identifying the performance obligations;
3.
determining the transaction price;
4.
allocating the transaction price to the performance obligations; and
5.
recognising revenue when/as performance obligation(s) are satisfied.
The Group sometimes enters into transactions involving a range of the Group’s products and services which
in the CTP segment would generally be for design and engineering and production.
The total transaction price for a contract is allocated amongst the various performance obligations based
on their relative standalone selling prices, or, in the absence of a standalone selling price, on a cost plus
margin basis. The transaction price for a contract excludes any amounts collected on behalf of third parties.
Revenue is recognised either at a point in time or over time, when (or as) the Group satisfies performance
obligations by transferring the promised goods or services to its customers.
The Group recognises contract liabilities for consideration received in respect of unsatisfied performance
obligations and reports these amounts as contract liabilities in the statement of financial position. Similarly,
if the Group satisfies a performance obligation before it receives the consideration, the Group recognises
either a contract asset or a receivable in its statement of financial position, depending on whether
something other than the passage of time is required before the consideration is due.
k) Foreign currency transactions
Transactions in foreign currencies are translated at the foreign exchange rate ruling at the date of the
transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the balance sheet date
are translated to functional currency at the foreign exchange rate ruling at that date. Foreign exchange
differences arising on translation are recognised in the income statement. Non-monetary assets and
liabilities that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange
rate at the date of the transaction. Non-monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies
that are stated at fair value are translated to sterling at foreign exchange rates ruling at the dates the fair
value was determined.
l) Financial statements of foreign operations
The assets and liabilities of foreign operations, including goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on
consolidation, are translated to sterling at foreign exchange rates ruling at the balance sheet date. The
revenues and expenses of foreign operations are translated to sterling at rates approximating to the foreign
exchange rates ruling at the dates of the transactions. Foreign exchange differences arising on retranslation
are recognised directly in a separate component of equity.
m) Net investment in foreign operations
Exchange differences arising from the translation of the net investment in foreign operations, and of related
hedges meeting the criteria for hedge accounting under IFRS 9, are taken to the translation reserve. They
are released into the income statement upon disposal.
The Group has taken advantage of relief available under IFRS 1 to not separately recognise the cumulative
translation differences for all foreign operations at the date of transition, 1 April 2004.
n) Dividends
Dividends are only recognised as a liability to the extent that they are declared prior to the year end. Unpaid
dividends that do not meet these criteria are disclosed in the note to the financial statements.
o) Net operating expenses
Net operating expenses incurred by the business are written off to the income statement as incurred.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
97
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
1 Basis of preparation
continued
Accounting policies
continued
p) Net financing costs
Net financing costs comprise interest payable on borrowings calculated using an approximation
1
of the
effective interest rate method, interest receivable on funds invested, dividend income and gains and losses
on hedging instruments that are recognised in the income statement.
Interest is recognised in the income statement as it accrues, using the effective interest method.
q) Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash balances and call deposits. Bank overdrafts that are repayable on
demand and form an integral part of the Group’s cash management are included as a component of cash
and cash equivalents for the purpose of the statement of cash flows.
Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities in the balance sheet unless they are part of
the net overdraft facility which has a £nil net limit, in which case they are offset against cash.
r) Taxation
Income tax on the profit or loss for the year comprises current and deferred tax. Income tax is recognised
in the income statement except to the extent that it relates to items recognised directly in equity, in which
case it is recognised in equity or the statement of comprehensive income.
Current tax is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the year, using tax rates enacted or
substantively enacted at the balance sheet date in the countries where the Group operates and any
adjustments to tax payable in respect of previous years.
Deferred tax is provided using the balance sheet liability method, providing for temporary differences
between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts
used for taxation purposes. The following temporary differences are not provided for: goodwill not
deductible for tax purposes, the initial recognition of assets or liabilities that affect neither accounting nor
taxable profit, and differences relating to investments in subsidiaries to the extent that they will probably not
reverse in the foreseeable future. The amount of deferred tax provided is based on the expected manner
of realisation or settlement of the carrying amount of assets and liabilities, using tax rates enacted or
substantively enacted at the balance sheet date.
A deferred tax asset is recognised only to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be
available against which the asset can be utilised.
Deferred tax assets are reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that the related tax benefit
will be realised.
Additional income taxes that arise from the distribution of dividends from foreign operations are recognised
at the same time as the liability to pay the related dividend.
Companies within the Group may be entitled to claim special tax deductions in relation to qualifying
expenditure (e.g. Research and Development). The Group accounts for such allowances as tax credits,
which means that the allowance reduces the tax payable and current tax expense.
s) Retirement benefit costs
The Group operates a defined benefit pension scheme and also makes payments into defined contribution
schemes for employees. The pension payable under the defined benefit scheme is calculated based on
years of service up to retirement and pensionable salary at the point of retirement.
The net obligation in respect of the defined benefit plan is the present value of the defined benefit
obligations less the fair value of the plan’s assets at the balance sheet date. The assumptions used to
calculate the present value of the defined benefit obligations are detailed in note 24.
IFRIC 14 requires that where plan assets exceed the defined benefit obligation, an asset is recognised to
the extent that an economic benefit is available to the Group, in accordance with the terms of the plan and
applicable statutory requirements and the benefit should be realisable during the life of the plan or on the
settlement of the plan liabilities.
The operating and financing costs of the scheme are recognised separately in the income statement in the
period they arise.
Payments to the defined contribution schemes are accounted for on an accruals basis. Once the payments
have been made the Group has no further obligation.
t) Financial instruments
i) Recognition and initial measurement
Trade receivables and debt securities issued are initially recognised when they are originated. All other
financial assets and financial liabilities are initially recognised when the Group becomes a party to the
contractual provisions of the instrument.
A financial asset (unless it is a trade receivable without a significant finance component) or financial liability
is initially measured at fair value (plus transaction costs that are directly attributable to its acquisition or
issue for an item not at fair value through profit or loss (“FVTPL”)). A trade receivable without a significant
financing component is initially measured at the transaction price.
The fair value is the amount at which a financial instrument could be exchanged in an arm’s length
transaction between third parties. Where available, market values are used to determine fair values,
otherwise fair values are calculated by discounting expected cash flows at prevailing interest and
exchange rates.
1.
Interest payable is a combination of principal interest and amortised arrangement fees, the resulting charge of which is
annually tested against the effective interest rate method to demonstrate they are materially in line.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
98
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
1 Basis of preparation
continued
Accounting policies
continued
t) Financial instruments continued
ii) Classification and subsequent measurement
On initial recognition, a financial asset is classified as measured at: amortised cost; fair value through other
comprehensive income (“FVOCI”) – debt investment; FVOCI – equity investment; or FVTPL.
Financial assets are not reclassified subsequent to their initial recognition unless the Group changes its
business model for managing financial assets, in which case all affected financial assets are reclassified on
the first day of the first reporting period following the change in business model.
A financial asset is measured at amortised cost if it meets both of the following conditions and is not
designated as at FVTPL:
it is held within a business model whose objective is to hold assets to collect contractual cash flows; and
its contractual terms give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and
interest on the principal amount outstanding.
On initial recognition of an equity investment that is not held for trading, the Group may irrevocably elect
to present subsequent changes in the investment’s fair value in other comprehensive income (“OCI”). This
election is made on an investment-by-investment basis.
All financial assets not classified as measured at amortised cost or FVOCI as described above are measured
at FVTPL. This includes all derivative financial assets. On initial recognition, the Group may irrevocably
designate a financial asset that otherwise meets the requirements to be measured at amortised cost or
at FVOCI as at FVTPL, if doing so eliminates or significantly reduces an accounting mismatch that would
otherwise arise.
Financial assets at FVTPL are subsequently measured at fair value. Net gains and losses, including any
interest or dividend income, are recognised in profit or loss.
Financial assets at amortised cost are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest
method. The amortised cost is reduced by impairment losses. Interest income, foreign exchange gains and
losses and impairment are recognised in profit or loss. Any gain or loss on derecognition is recognised in
profit or loss.
Equity investments at FVOCI are subsequently measured at fair value. Dividends are recognised as income
in the profit or loss unless the dividend clearly represents a recovery of part of the cost of the investment.
Other net gains and losses are recognised in OCI and are never reclassified to profit or loss.
Financial liabilities are classified as measured at amortised cost or FVTPL. A financial liability is classified as
FVTPL if it is classified as held-for-trading, it is a derivative or it is designated as such on initial recognition.
Financial liabilities at FVTPL are measured at fair value and net gains and losses, including any interest
expense, are recognised in profit and loss. Other financial liabilities are subsequently measured at amortised
cost using the effective interest method. Interest expense and foreign exchange gains and losses are
recognised in profit and loss. Any gain or loss on derecognition is also recognised in profit and loss.
iii) Derecognition
The Group derecognises a financial asset when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the financial
asset expire, or it transfers the rights to receive the contractual cash flow in a transaction in which
substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership of the financial asset are transferred or in which the
Group neither transfers nor retains substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership and it does not
retain control of the financial asset.
The Group derecognises a financial liability when its contractual obligations are discharged or cancelled,
or expire. The Group also derecognises a financial liability when its terms are modified and the cash flows
of the modified liability are substantially different, in which case a new financial liability based on modified
terms is recognised at fair value. On derecognition of a financial liability, the difference between the
carrying amount extinguished and the consideration paid (including any non-cash assets transferred or
liabilities assumed) is recognised in profit or loss.
iv) Offsetting
Financial assets and financial liabilities are offset and the net amounts presented in the statement of
financial position when, and only when, the Group currently has a legally enforceable right to set off
the amounts and it intends to settle them on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability
simultaneously.
v) Hedge accounting
When a non-derivative financial liability is designated as the hedging instrument in a hedge of a net
investment in a foreign operation, the effective portion of foreign exchange gains and losses is recognised
in OCI and presented in the translation reserve within equity. Any ineffective portion of the foreign
exchange gains and losses is recognised immediately in profit or loss. The amount recognised in OCI is
reclassified to profit or loss as a reclassification adjustment on disposal of foreign operations.
u) Share‑based payments
The Group issues awards structured as equity-settled share-based payments and cash-settled
share-based payments to certain employees in exchange for services rendered by them. The fair value
of the equity-settled share-based award is calculated at date of grant and is expensed on a straight-line
basis over the vesting period with a corresponding increase in equity. The fair value of the cash-settled
award is calculated at date of grant and recognised as an expense over the vesting period based upon the
cash expected to be paid. The fair value of cash-settled share-based payments is recalculated at each
reporting date and the accrual revised accordingly. Both valuations are based on the Group’s estimate of
share awards that will eventually vest and take into account movement of non-market conditions, being
service conditions and financial performance, if relevant.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
99
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
1 Basis of preparation
continued
Accounting policies
continued
v) Impairment
i) Non-financial assets
For non-financial assets the continuing policy is as follows:
The carrying amounts of the Group’s assets, other than inventories (see accounting policy i) and deferred
tax assets (see accounting policy r), are reviewed at each balance sheet date to determine whether there is
any indication of impairment. If any such indication exists, the asset’s recoverable amount is estimated.
For goodwill, assets that have an indefinite useful life and intangible assets that are not yet available for use,
the recoverable amount is estimated at each balance sheet date.
An impairment loss is recognised whenever the carrying amount of an asset or its cash generating unit
exceeds its recoverable amount. Impairment losses are recognised in the income statement.
Impairment losses recognised in respect of cash generating units are allocated first to reduce the carrying
amount of any goodwill allocated to cash generating units or group of units and then to reduce the carrying
amount of the other assets in the unit or group of units on a pro-rata basis. The carrying value of goodwill at
31 March 2024 is allocated wholly to the CTP cash generating unit.
ii) Financial assets
The Group measures loss allowances for estimate of expected credit losses (“ECLs”) on:
financial assets measured at amortised cost; and
contract assets (as defined in IFRS 15).
The Group measures loss allowances at an amount equal to lifetime ECL, except for bank balances for
which the credit risk has not increased significantly.
Loss allowances for trade receivables and contract assets are always measured at an amount equal to
lifetime ECL.
When determining whether the credit risk of a financial asset has increased significantly since initial
recognition and when estimating ECL, the Group considers reasonable and supportable information
that is relevant and available without undue cost or effort. This includes both quantitative and qualitative
information and analysis, based on the Group’s historical experience and informed credit assessment and
including forward-looking information.
The Group assumes that the credit risk on a financial asset has increased significantly if it is more than 120
days past due.
The Group considers a financial asset to be in default when:
the borrower is unlikely to pay its credit obligations to the Group in full, without recourse by the Group to
actions such as realising security (if any is held); or
the financial asset is more than 120 days past due.
Lifetime ECLs are the ECLs that result from all possible default events over the expected life of a financial
instrument.
Twelve-month ECLs are the portion of ECLs that result from default events that are possible within the
twelve months after the reporting date (or a shorter period if the expected life of the instrument is less
than twelve months).
ECLs are a probability-weighted estimate of credit losses. Credit losses are measured as the present value
of all cash shortfalls (i.e. the difference between the contracted cash flows and the cash flows the Group
expects to receive). ECLs are discounted at the effective interest rate of the financial asset.
At each reporting date, the Group assesses whether financial assets carried at amortised cost are
credit-impaired. A financial asset is credit-impaired when one or more events that have a detrimental
impact on the estimated future cash flows of the assets have occurred.
w) Exceptional items
In order for users of the accounts to better understand the underlying (defined on page 167) performance
of the Group, the Board has separately disclosed transactions which, whilst falling within the ordinary
activities of the Group, are, by virtue of their size or incidence, considered to be exceptional in nature.
Such transactions include, but are not limited to: rationalisation, restructuring and refinancing of the Group,
costs of impairment, one-off retirement benefit effects, litigation costs and material bad debts.
Non-operating exceptional items arise from costs incurred outside the ordinary course of the Group’s
business. Such items include profits, losses and associated costs arising on the disposal of surplus
properties and businesses.
x) Segment reporting
Segmental information is presented on the same basis as that used for internal reporting to the chief
operating decision maker.
y) Provisions
A provision is recognised in the balance sheet when the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation
as a result of a past event, that can be reliably measured and it is probable that an outflow of economic
benefits will be required to settle the obligation. Provisions are determined by discounting the expected
future cash flows at a pre-tax rate that reflects risks specific to the liability to the extent that the effect of
discounting is material. Provisions totalling £0.7m have been recognised at 31 March 2024 (2023: £0.5m);
further details can be found in note 23.
z) Current versus non‑current disclosure
Current assets are generally assets due to be received within twelve months of the reporting date. Current
liabilities are those which are due to be settled within twelve months of the reporting date, or where the
Group does not have an unconditional right to defer for at least twelve months after the reporting date.
All other assets/liabilities are classified as non-current unless they are held primarily for the purpose
of trading.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
100
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
2 Accounting estimates and judgements
The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make
judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of policies and reported amounts of
assets and liabilities, income and expenses.
The estimates and assumptions are based on historical experience and various other factors that are
believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. These estimates and assumptions form the basis for
making judgements about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from
other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting
estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised if the revision affects only that
period, or in the period of revision and future periods if the revision affects both current and future periods.
The following are the critical judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty that the Directors have
made in the process of applying the Group’s accounting policies and that have the most significant effect
on the amounts recognised in the financial statements. Management has discussed these with the Audit &
Risk Committee. These should be read in conjunction with the significant accounting policies provided in
the notes to the financial statements.
Going concern
Note 1 contains information about the preparation of these financial statements on a going concern basis.
Key judgements
Management has exercised judgement over the likelihood of the Group being able to continue to operate
within its available facilities and in accordance with its covenants for at least twelve months from the date
of signing these financial statements. Judgement has been applied over forecast profit, debt levels and
interest rates, particularly base rates. This determines whether the Group should operate the going concern
basis of preparation for these financial statements.
Impairment of assets
Notes 13 and 14 contain information about management’s estimates of the recoverable amount of cash
generating units and their risk factors.
Key judgements
Management has exercised judgement over the underlying assumptions within the valuation models and
has applied judgement to determine the Group’s cash generating units to which goodwill is allocated and
against which impairment testing is performed. These are key factors in their assessment of whether
there is any impairment in related goodwill or other assets. Goodwill at 31 March 2024 amounts to £22.0m
(2023: £23.0m).
Management has exercised judgement when considering if there have been indicators of impairment.
Where indicators exist, management has estimated recoverable amount as detailed next.
Key sources of estimation uncertainty
The Group tests whether goodwill has suffered any impairment and considers whether there is any
indication of impairment either of this or other assets on an annual basis. As set out in more detail in notes
13 and 14, the recoverable amounts may be based on either value in use calculations or fair value less costs
of disposal considerations. The former requires the estimation of future cash flows and the choice of a
discount rate in order to calculate the present value of the future cash flows, the latter method requires the
estimation of fair value.
Details of the sensitivity of assumptions are included in note 13.
Pension assumptions
Note 22 contains information about management’s estimate of the net liability for defined benefit
obligations and their risk factors. The pension liability at 31 March 2024 amounts to £37.2m (2023: £34.5m).
Key sources of estimation uncertainty
The value of the defined benefit pension plan obligation is determined by long-term actuarial assumptions.
These assumptions include discount rates, inflation rates and mortality rates. Differences arising from actual
experience or future changes in assumptions will be reflected in the Group’s consolidated statement of
comprehensive income. The Group exercises judgement in determining the assumptions to be adopted
after discussion with a qualified actuary. Details of the key actuarial assumptions used and of the sensitivity
of these assumptions are included within note 22.
In the year to 31 March 2022 and the year to 31 March 2021, the Scheme introduced a right for members
to Pension Increase Exchange (“PIE”) and a Bridging Pension Option respectively. Having taken actuarial
advice, management exercised judgement that, for each, 40% of members would take the options at
retirement. There is no change to either assumption in the current year. Any change in estimate would
be recognised as remeasurement gains/(losses) through the consolidated statement of comprehensive
income.
Leases
There are imputed interest rates in lease liability calculations and certain leases contain break options.
Key judgements
Lease liabilities are measured initially at the present value of the lease payments discounted using the
rate implicit in the lease, or where not readily determinable as is generally the case, using the incremental
borrowing rate. This requires management to apply judgement.
Management has applied judgement when determining the expected certainty that a break option within a
lease will be exercised. Note 4 details the amount by which lease liabilities would decrease if the Group were
to exercise break options that at 31 March 2024 management are reasonably certain will not be exercised as
well as the amount by which lease liabilities have been adjusted where management are, at 31 March 2024,
reasonably certain that break options will be exercised.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
101
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
2 Accounting estimates and judgements
continued
Revenue recognition
As revenue from Design and Engineering contracts is recognised over time, the amount of revenue
recognised in a reporting period depends on the extent to which the performance obligations have been
satisfied. See note 5, revenue from contracts with customers, for information on contract balances at
31 March 2024.
Key judgements
The revenue recognised on certain contracts in the CTP segment required management to use judgement
to apportion contract revenue to the Design and Engineering performance obligations.
Key sources of estimation uncertainty
Revenue recognised on certain contracts in the CTP segment required management to estimate the
remaining costs to complete the Design and Engineering performance obligation in order to determine the
percentage of completion and revenue to recognise in respect of those performance obligations. Costs to
complete are determined through consultation with the contract engineers and changes to this estimate will
therefore impact the amount of revenue recognised.
Recognition of deferred tax assets
Note 21 contains information about the deferred tax assets recognised in the consolidated statement of
financial position.
Key judgements
Management has exercised judgement over the level of future taxable profits in the UK against which to
relieve the Group’s deferred tax assets. On the basis of this judgement, with the exception of a £0.3m
deferred tax asset which is available to offset against a deferred tax liability of £0.3m arising on historic
property revaluations (2023: £0.3m), no UK deferred tax assets have been recognised at period end.
Classification of exceptional items
Note 8 contains information about items classified as exceptional.
Key judgements
Management has exercised judgement over whether items are exceptional as set out in the Group’s
accounting policy – see note 1w.
Expected credit losses
The allowance for expected credit losses (“ECLs”) in note 17 is calculated on a customer-by-customer
basis, using a combination of internally and externally sourced information, including expected future
default levels and future predicted cash collection levels.
Key sources of estimation uncertainty
Management has applied judgement when setting expectations, these are derived from past
defaults/trends and future projections.
Provisions
On 14 February 2024, the Group announced the strategic consolidation and closure of its Tucson, Arizona,
USA facility, due to be completed by September 2024.
Key judgements
Management has applied judgement when determining what provisions to recognise at 31 March 2024 for
costs directly arising from the planned closure, where an obligation exists at that date. Management has
also used judgement to assess whether there is any impairment of assets at the facility as a result of the
intended closure (see impairment of assets above).
Key sources of estimation uncertainty
Provisions for employee redundancy and dilapidation costs of the leased properties at Tucson, totalling
£0.7m, have been estimated at 31 March 2024, see note 23. Provisions recognised are management’s best
estimate of the cost that will be required to settle the Group’s obligation at a future date. Advice has been
sought from a third party who has provided an estimate of the cost to make good the properties prior to
exit; however, until the final cost is agreed with the lessor, this remains an estimate. Following closure, any
unused provision will be released back to exceptional items as a credit in FY25.
3 Segment reporting
The Group is organised into two, separately managed, business segments – CTP and Aerospace. These are
the segments for which summarised management information is presented to the Group’s chief operating
decision maker (comprising the main Board and Group Executive Committee).
The CTP segment supplies value-adding engineered solutions from mould design, automation and
production to assembly and printing for the life science, optical and precision component industries.
This business operates internationally in a fast-growing and dynamic market underpinned by rapid
technological development.
The Aerospace segment delivers precise and durable components for the safety and performance of
aircraft to manufacturing and aerospace industries.
The Central costs relate to the cost of running the Group, plc and non-trading companies.
Transfer pricing between business segments is set on an arm’s length basis. Segmental revenues and results
presented are after the elimination of transfers between business segments. Those transfers are eliminated
on consolidation.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
102
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
3 Segment reporting
continued
Analysis by business segment
The segment results for the year ended 31 March 2024 were as follows:
CTP
Aerospace
Central
Group total
£000
£000
£000
£000
Consolidated income statement
Continuing operations:
External revenue
125,044
7,628
132,672
External expenses
(115,627)
(5,929)
(4,469)
(126,025)
Underlying operating profit/(loss)
1
9,417
1,699
(4,469)
6,647
Exceptional operating items
(3,259)
(50)
(1,548)
(4,857)
Operating profit/(loss)
6,158
1,649
(6,017)
1,790
Net finance expense
(5,587)
Income tax credit
498
Loss for the period
(3,299)
Consolidated statement of financial position
Segment assets
93,160
6,095
1,685
100,940
Segment liabilities
(31,728)
(1,739)
(63,813)
(97,280)
Net assets/(liabilities)
61,432
4,356
(62,128)
3,660
Other segmental information
Capital expenditure on property, plant and equipment
6,736
585
166
7,487
Capital expenditure on computer software
95
95
Depreciation
7,454
223
92
7,769
Impairment of property, plant and equipment
1,892
1,892
Amortisation of computer software
31
70
101
Amortisation of other intangibles
62
62
1.
See the glossary on page 167.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
103
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
3 Segment reporting
continued
Analysis by business segment
continued
The segment results for the year ended 31 March 2023 were as follows:
CTP
Aerospace
Central
Group total
£000
£000
£000
£000
Consolidated income statement
Continuing operations:
External revenue
136,814
6,631
143,445
External expenses
(129,493)
(5,111)
(2,902)
(137,506)
Underlying operating profit/(loss)
1
7,321
1,520
(2,902)
5,939
Exceptional operating items
(2,752)
(1,958)
(4,710)
Operating profit/(loss)
4,569
1,520
(4,860)
1,229
Net finance expense
(3,749)
Income tax expense
(1,437)
Loss for the period
(3,957)
Consolidated statement of financial position
Segment assets
114,231
5,886
2,555
122,672
Segment liabilities
(40,000)
(1,198)
(69,868)
(111,066)
Net assets/(liabilities)
74,231
4,688
(67,313)
11,606
Other segmental information
Capital expenditure on property, plant and equipment
5,474
287
49
5,810
Capital expenditure on computer software
36
36
Capital expenditure on other intangibles
68
68
Depreciation
7,516
223
76
7,815
Impairment of property, plant and equipment
783
783
Amortisation of computer software
43
101
144
Amortisation of other intangibles
67
67
Impairment of intangible fixed assets
208
208
1.
See the glossary on page 167.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
104
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
3 Segment reporting
continued
Analysis by geographical segment
The business operates in three main geographical regions – the United Kingdom, North America and in lower-cost regions including the Czech Republic, China and India. The geographical analysis was as follows:
Expenditure on tangible
External revenue
Net segment (liabilities)/assets
and intangible fixed assets
2024
2023
2024
2023
2024
2023
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
United Kingdom
10,084
14,157
(39,006)
(40,329)
1,980
1,923
North America
68,474
70,955
21,846
27,909
4,867
3,204
Rest of world
54,114
58,333
20,820
24,026
735
787
132,672
143,445
3,660
11,606
7,582
5,914
The analysis of segment revenue represents revenue from external customers based upon the location of the customer.
The analysis of segment assets and capital expenditure is based upon the location of the assets.
The material components of the Central assets and liabilities are retirement benefit obligation net liabilities of £37.2m (2023: net liabilities of £34.5m), and net borrowings of £24.3m (2023: £31.3m).
One CTP customer accounted for 41.1% (2023: 28.4%) and another customer for 13.3% (2023: 10.5%) of Group revenues from continuing operations and similar proportions of trade receivables.
No other customer accounted for more than 10.0% of revenues from continuing operations in the year.
Deferred tax assets by geographical location are as follows: United Kingdom £nil (2023: £0.3m), North America £0.8m (2023: £0.8m), rest of world £0.1m (2023: £0.1m).
Total non-current assets by geographical location are as follows: United Kingdom £20.6m (2023: £22.6m), North America £26.3m (2023: £28.8m), rest of world £16.2m (2023: £18.6m).
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
105
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
4 Leases
The Group’s leases are principally for warehouse and manufacturing facilities and assets, with a small number of vehicles and other equipment.
Information about leases for which the Group is a lessee is presented below.
Amounts recognised in the statement of financial position
i) Right‑of‑use assets
Right-of-use assets related to leased properties and plant and equipment are presented as property, plant and equipment (see note 14).
Plant and
Land and buildings
equipment
Total
£000
£000
£000
Balance at 1 April 2022
6,687
5,026
11,713
Depreciation charge for the year
(1,712)
(1,105)
(2,817)
Additions to right-of-use assets
668
2,801
3,469
Assets transferred to right-of-use assets from owned property, plant and equipment
372
372
Derecognition of right-of-use assets
(233)
(233)
Impairment to right-of-use assets
(485)
(485)
Effect of movements in foreign exchange
192
240
432
Balance at 31 March 2023
6,207
6,244
12,451
Depreciation charge for the year
(2,368)
(1,084)
(3,452)
Additions to right-of-use assets
2,272
2,289
4,561
Assets transferred to right-of-use assets from owned property, plant and equipment
578
154
732
Derecognition of right-of-use assets
(70)
(25)
(95)
Reassessment of lease term
(1,310)
(1,310)
Impairment to right-of-use assets
(116)
(1,466)
(1,582)
Reclassification of assets
(153)
153
Effect of movements in foreign exchange
(122)
(63)
(185)
Balance at 31 March 2024
4,918
6,202
11,120
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
106
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
4 Leases
continued
Amounts recognised in the statement of financial position
continued
i) Right‑of‑use assets continued
On 14 February 2024, the Group announced the intended closure of its Tucson, Arizona, USA facility. As a
result of this decision, it was deemed by management that at 31 March 2024 there was reasonable certainty
that the exit options within two of the property leases at that location would be exercised. As such, the lease
liability was remeasured with a corresponding adjustment recognised against the right-of-use assets of
£1.3m. Further, an impairment of £0.1m was recognised as an exceptional charge, classified as rationalisation
costs in note 8, to impair the properties to value in use based upon expected closure date.
The impairment to plant and equipment of £1.5m includes £0.9m in respect to assets obtained for
production on a leading global OEM customer who in December 2022 gave notice that they would not be
proceeding into the production phase of their project. Whilst an impairment of £0.5m was recognised in the
prior year, it was decided by management at 30 September 2023 that as the assets remained on balance
sheet with no intended use, they should be impaired to recoverable amount being fair value, less costs to
dispose. A further impairment was recognised of £0.9m and there has been no change to this assessment
of recoverable amount which, at 31 March 2024, totalled £0.5m. Following the announcement of the
intended closure of the Tucson, Arizona, USA facility, the Directors undertook an exercise to determine
the recoverable amount of assets located at this site. As the assets are leased, the recoverable amount
is determined to be value in use. As a result of this review, an impairment of £0.6m was recognised within
exceptional items.
ii) Lease liabilities
Lease liabilities have been presented as loans and borrowings (see note 20).
Amounts recognised in the income statement
2024
2023
£000
£000
Interest on lease liabilities
1,042
674
Expenses relating to short-term leases
19
17
Depreciation and impairment expense on leases
5,034
3,302
Amounts recognised in the consolidated statement of cash flows
2024
2023
£000
£000
Total cash outflow for leases
3,659
4,795
Break options
The decision and subsequent announcement of the closure of the Tucson, Arizona, USA facility means
that at 31 March 2024, management of the CTP division are reasonably certain to exercise the options
to terminate two of the Tucson property leases early. As such, the lease liability is reduced by £1.4m at
31 March 2024 with a reduction in the carrying value of the right-of-use asset of £1.3m, the balance being
credited to the income statement, disclosed as an exceptional item.
The Group has estimated that the potential future lease payments, should it exercise break options at other
sites, would result in a decrease in lease liabilities of £0.8m (2023: £2.3m).
5 Revenue from contracts with customers
a) Nature of goods and services
The following is a description of the principal activities, separated by reportable segments, from which the
Group generates its revenues. For more detailed information about reportable segments, see note 3.
i) CTP segment:
The CTP segment supplies value-adding engineered solutions from mould design, automation and
production to assembly and printing, for the life science, optical and precision component industries.
CTP revenues comprise two typical project types: Manufacturing Solutions and Design & Engineering.
Manufacturing Solutions
The majority of the CTP business is in manufacturing injection moulded product.
Control of manufactured finished goods transfers to customers on delivery. Therefore revenue is
recognised at a point in time, on delivery of individual manufactured products to customers.
Design & Engineering
The CTP business also designs, builds and validates injection moulding tools for customers. Depending
on the contract, each of these three elements of the design and engineering process may be deemed
a distinct performance obligation under IFRS 15, or a single performance obligation, as contracts with
customers may include one or more elements of the design and engineering process.
The majority of design and engineering performance obligations are satisfied over time, either on input
methods (passage of time or costs to complete) or output methods (milestones achieved). These
methods recognise revenue on a basis that is representative of the enhancement of the tool and therefore
satisfaction of the performance obligation.
Some CTP contracts include both Design & Engineering and Manufacturing Solutions performance
obligations. In most cases transaction price is as per the contracted agreement. There is no significant
variable consideration.
ii) Aerospace segment:
The Aerospace segment delivers precise and durable components for the safety and performance of
aircraft to manufacturing and aerospace industries.
Control of manufactured finished goods transfers to customers on delivery. Therefore revenue is
recognised at a point in time, on delivery of individual manufactured products to customers.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
107
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
5 Revenue from contracts with customers
continued
b) Disaggregation of revenue
CTP
CTP
Aerospace
Aerospace
Group total
Group total
2024
2023
2024
2023
2024
2023
Continuing operations
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
Major products/service lines
Manufacturing Solutions
103,473
116,737
7,629
6,631
111,102
123,368
Design & Engineering
21,570
20,077
21,570
20,077
125,043
136,814
7,629
6,631
132,672
143,445
Timing of revenue recognition
Products transferred at a point in time
103,642
117,038
7,629
6,631
111,271
123,669
Products and services transferred over time
21,401
19,776
21,401
19,776
125,043
136,814
7,629
6,631
132,672
143,445
Refer to note 3 for information on reliance on major customers.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
108
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
5 Revenue from contracts with customers
continued
c) Contract balances
The following table provides information about receivables, contract assets and contract liabilities from contracts with customers.
2024
2023
£000
£000
Trade receivables (see note 17)
14,493
16,775
Contract assets (see note 16)
1,663
5,763
Contract liabilities
(2,998)
(4,689)
13,158
17,849
The contract assets primarily relate to the Group’s rights to consideration for work completed but not billed at the reporting date on its Design & Engineering contracts in the CTP segment.
The contract liabilities relate to the advance consideration received from customers before the related revenue has been recognised; this applies to Design & Engineering contracts in the CTP segment.
The following table provides information about revenue recognised in the current period that was included in the contract liability balance at the beginning of the period:
2024
2023
£000
£000
Revenue recognised
4,604
6,563
d) Transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations
The following table includes revenue expected to be recognised in the future related to performance obligations that are (partially) unsatisfied at the reporting date.
The Group is making use of the practical expedient not to include revenue on contracts with an original expected duration of one year or less.
Revenue expected to be recognised
2025
2026
2027
£000
£000
£000
Design & Engineering – CTP
6,504
1,805
85
e) Significant payment terms
Design & Engineering contracts are invariably billed in several clearly identifiable stages, with standard payment terms being either 30 or 60 days. Typically, these are linked to key milestones being design, build
and validate.
Billing of manufacturing product is typically on completion of particular production batches. Credit terms are usually negotiated between 30 and 60 days. Only pre-specified conditions would confer any right to the
customer to return the product for a refund.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
109
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
6 Operating profit
Operating profit from continuing operations is arrived at as follows:
2024
2023
£000
£000
Revenue
132,672
143,445
Decrease in stocks of finished goods and work in progress
274
618
Raw materials and consumables
60,297
68,230
Personnel expenses (see note 7)
38,642
40,709
Impairment loss on trade and other receivables, including
contract assets (see note 17)
(43)
40
Amortisation of intangible assets
163
211
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment
7,769
7,815
Rent
1,037
216
Rates
771
234
Power
2,702
3,434
Carriage
1,853
2,755
Repairs and maintenance
2,779
3,094
Insurance
691
751
Computer costs
2,605
2,946
2024
2023
£000
£000
Auditor’s remuneration:
Fees payable to the Company’s auditor for the audit of the
Company’s annual accounts
280
204
Fees payable to the Company’s auditor for overruns in respect to
the prior year
150
50
Fees payable to the Company’s auditor and its associates for
other services
The audit of the Company’s subsidiaries, pursuant to legislation
160
121
Audit-related assurance services
42
39
Total auditor’s remuneration
632
414
Exceptional items: (see note 8)
Rationalisation costs
3,360
2,648
Past service cost in respect to retirement benefits
1,020
Refinancing costs
433
756
Net costs arising from cancellation of future supply agreement
188
877
Doubtful debt and related inventory provision
140
896
Settlement/costs in respect to legacy claims
(284)
302
Credit arising on the disposal of surplus properties
(769)
Total exceptional items
4,857
4,710
Foreign exchange losses/(gains)
63
(919)
Pension scheme administration costs
832
1,242
Other operating charges
4,958
5,716
130,882
142,216
Operating profit
1,790
1,229
Exceptional items include £0.1m (2023: £0.2m) of pension scheme administration costs and £0.2m
inventory provisions.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
110
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
7 Personnel expenses
2024
2023
£000
£000
Wages and salaries
33,114
35,272
Social security contributions
3,854
4,097
Charge in respect of defined contribution pension plans
1,201
934
Charge in respect of other pension plans
424
462
Share-based payments (see note 25)
49
(56)
38,642
40,709
Exceptional credit regarding past service costs (see notes 8 and 22)
1,020
39,662
40,709
Redundancy costs arising from Group restructuring of £0.5m (2023: £0.9m) and £nil of other personnel
costs (2023: £0.2m) are excluded from the above analysis and are included within rationalisation costs, part
of exceptional items as set out in note 8.
Directors’ remuneration and emoluments, which are included in this analysis, are described in the Directors’
remuneration report on pages 57 to 76.
No options vested under the PSP scheme during the year or during the comparative period, therefore
there were no gains made by the Directors to disclose. The Group recognised a net charge of £0.05m in
the consolidated income statement in the year to 31 March 2024 (2023: £0.06m credit) for share-based
payments. As well as adjusting for awards forfeited by leavers, the cumulative charge recognised over
the vesting period requires adjustment to reflect the recalculated fair value of cash-settled share-based
payments, and assessment of likely vesting for awards subject to non-market-based vesting conditions at
each reporting date.
The average monthly number of persons employed by the Group during the year was as follows:
2024
2023
Number of
Number of
employees
employees
By segment
Central
19
20
CTP
976
1,036
Aerospace
64
60
1,059
1,116
By geographic location
United Kingdom
295
341
North America
403
368
Rest of world
361
407
1,059
1,116
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
111
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
8 Exceptional items
2024
2023
£000
£000
Continuing operations
Rationalisation costs
(3,360)
(2,648)
Past service cost in respect to retirement benefits
(1,020)
Refinancing costs
(433)
(756)
Net costs arising from cancellation of future supply agreement
(188)
(877)
Settlement/(costs) in respect to legacy claims
284
(302)
Doubtful debt and related inventory provision
(140)
(896)
Credit arising on the disposal of surplus properties
769
(4,857)
(4,710)
Rationalisation costs from continuing operations during the period relate to the restructuring and
rationalisation of the Group. Costs are mostly relating to the announced Tucson, Arizona, USA
facility closure and the now closed Derry, NH, USA manufacturing site as well as some other Central
employee-related costs. These include a combination of employee redundancy costs, site closure
provisions and asset impairment costs. Prior year costs were similar in nature, being a mixture of employee
rationalisation and asset impairment costs arising from the decision that the Derry manufacturing site
would be closed in the year to 31 March 2024.
During the year, the trustees of the Carclo Group Pension Scheme identified that a group of members
required an adjustment to their benefits in respect of the requirement to provide equal benefits to males
and females following the Barber judgment in 1990. In summary, the adjustment consisted of decreasing
the normal retirement age from 65 to 60 for some members’ benefits for some elements of service after
17 May 1990. This has resulted in additional liabilities in the Scheme which have been accounted for as a
£1.0m past service cost in the income statement (approximately 0.8% of liabilities).
Refinancing costs of £0.4m are legal and professional costs incurred to ensure compliance with the Group’s
principal bank refinancing arrangement which resulted in the amendment deed signed 17 July 2023, as well
as other Group refinancing-related activities in respect to the Group’s commitment to seek alternative
sources of bank financing.
£0.2m net costs arising from cancellation of future supply agreement relate to the OEM customer who
gave notice in December 2022. This includes £0.9m asset impairment (see note 14), £0.2m loss on disposal
of other related ancillary equipment, less £0.7m being a credit recognised in the current year for final
settlement received.
During the year to 31 March 2024, the Group received notice from its third-party advisor that there would
be no obligation on Carclo plc to make payment to settle two of the health-related claims that had been
provided for in the prior year. As such, the provision held at that date, £0.3m, has been released back to
exceptional items.
In the prior year, a customer of the CTP division provided notice that it would be ceasing to operate.
Provision was made at the time for amounts not expected to be recovered through credit insurance.
A further £0.1m provision for inventory has been charged in the current year, as it is not now expected
to be recovered.
The credit arising on the disposal of surplus properties in the prior year is the profit arising on the sale and
leaseback arrangement of the CTP manufacturing site at Tucson, Arizona, USA.
9 Finance revenue and expense
2024
2023
£000
£000
Continuing operations
Finance revenue comprises:
Interest receivable on cash and cash deposits
424
218
Finance revenue
424
218
Finance expense comprises:
Interest payable on bank loans and overdrafts
(3,141)
(2,569)
Lease interest
(1,042)
(674)
Other interest
(2)
(59)
Interest on the net defined benefit pension liability
(1,826)
(665)
Finance expense
(6,011)
(3,967)
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
112
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
10 Income tax credit/(expense)
The credit/(expense) recognised in the consolidated income statement comprises:
2024
2023
£000
£000
United Kingdom corporation tax:
Adjustments for prior years
(22)
(18)
Overseas taxation:
Current tax
(942)
(1,462)
Adjustments for prior years
(211)
110
Total current tax net expense
(1,175)
(1,370)
Deferred tax credit/(expense)
Deferred tax
1,419
(20)
Adjustments for prior years
193
17
Rate change
61
(64)
Total deferred tax credit/(expense) – see note 21
1,673
(67)
Total income tax credit/(expense) recognised in the
consolidated income statement
498
(1,437)
Reconciliation of tax (credit)/expense for the year
The Group has reported an effective tax rate for the period of 13.1% which is below the standard rate of UK
corporation tax of 25% (2023: 19%).
The differences are explained as follows:
2024
2023
£000
%
£000
%
Income tax using standard rate
of UK corporation tax of 25%
(2023: 19%)
(949)
25.0
(479)
19.0
Expenses not deductible for tax
purposes
166
(4.4)
128
(5.1)
Income not taxable
(114)
3.0
(125)
5.0
Adjustments in respect of
overseas tax rates
(157)
4.1
155
(6.2)
Derecognition of deferred tax
asset previously recognised
669
(26.5)
Unprovided deferred tax
movement
732
(19.3)
982
(39.0)
Adjustment to current tax in
respect of prior periods (UK and
overseas)
232
(6.1)
(92)
3.7
Adjustments to deferred tax in
respect of prior periods (UK and
overseas)
(193)
5.1
(17)
0.7
Foreign taxes expensed in
the UK
(54)
1.4
210
(8.3)
Rate change on deferred tax
(61)
1.6
64
(2.5)
Foreign exchange currency loss
(100)
2.6
(58)
2.3
Total income tax
(credit)/expense
(498)
13.1
1,437
(57.0)
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
113
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
10 Income tax credit/(expense)
continued
Tax on items credited/(charged) outside of the consolidated
income statement
2024
2023
£000
£000
Recognised in other comprehensive income:
Foreign exchange movements
33
(190)
Total income tax credited/(charged) to other
comprehensive income
33
(190)
11 (Loss)/earnings per share
The calculation of basic earnings per share is based on the loss attributable to equity holders of the parent
company divided by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year.
The calculation of diluted earnings per share is based on the loss attributable to equity holders of the parent
company divided by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year (adjusted
for dilutive options).
The following details the result and average number of shares used in calculating the basic and diluted
earnings per share:
2024
2023
£000
£000
Loss after tax
(3,299)
(3,957)
Loss attributable to non-controlling interests
Loss after tax, attributable to equity holders of the parent
(3,299)
(3,957)
2024
2023
Shares
Shares
Weighted average number of ordinary shares in the year
73,419,193
73,419,193
Effect of dilutive share options in issue
1
15,974
15,974
Weighted average number of ordinary shares (diluted)
in the year for loss per share calculation
73,435,167
73,435,167
Effect of dilutive share options in issue
817,049
Weighted average number of ordinary shares (diluted)
in the year for underlying earnings per share calculation
2
74,252,216
73,435,167
1.
There are 15,974 vested shares outstanding that are yet to be issued. 817,049 of the share options granted on
21 September 2023 have been excluded from the calculation of weighted average number of dilutive earnings per share
in the current year as they are antidilutive. These options could potentially dilute earnings per share in the future.
2. See the glossary on page 167.
In addition to the above, the Company also calculates an earnings per share based on underlying profit as
the Board believes this provides a more useful comparison of business trends and performance. Underlying
profit is defined as profit before impairments, rationalisation costs, one-off retirement benefit effects,
exceptional bad debts, business closure costs, litigation costs, other separately disclosed one-off items and
the impact of property and business disposals, net of attributable taxes.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
114
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
11 (Loss)/earnings per share
continued
The following table reconciles the Group’s loss to underlying profit used in the numerator in calculating
underlying earnings per share:
2024
2023
£000
£000
Loss after tax, attributable to equity holders of the parent
(3,299)
(3,957)
Continuing operations:
Exceptional – Rationalisation and restructuring costs, net of tax
2,690
2,314
Exceptional – Past service cost in respect to retirement benefits,
net of tax
1,020
Exceptional – Refinancing costs, net of tax
433
756
Exceptional – Net costs arising from cancellation of future supply
agreement, net of tax
146
752
Exceptional – Settlement/(costs) in respect to legacy claims,
net of tax
(284)
302
Exceptional – Doubtful debt and related inventory provision,
net of tax
109
673
Exceptional – Credit arising on the disposal of surplus properties,
net of tax
(578)
Profit after tax but before exceptional items, attributable to
equity holders of the parent
815
262
Underlying operating profit
1
6,647
5,939
Finance revenue
424
218
Finance expense
(6,011)
(3,967)
Income tax expense
(245)
(1,928)
Underlying profit after tax attributable to equity holders
of the parent
815
262
The following table summarises the (loss)/earnings per share figures based on the presented data:
2024
2023
Pence
Pence
Basic loss per share
(4.5)
(5.4)
Diluted loss per share
(4.5)
(5.4)
Underlying earnings per share – basic
1
1.1
0.4
Underlying earnings per share – diluted
1
1.1
0.4
12 Dividends paid and proposed
The Directors are not proposing a final dividend for the year ended 31 March 2024 (2023: £nil). Under
the terms of the amended and restated bank facilities agreement, the Group is not permitted to make a
dividend payment to shareholders up to the period ending 31 December 2025.
1.
See the glossary on page 167.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
115
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
13 Intangible assets
Patents and
Customer-
development
related
Computer
Goodwill
costs
intangibles
software
Total
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
Cost
Balance at 31 March 2022
23,094
16,734
553
1,899
42,280
Additions
68
36
104
Disposals
(14)
(14)
Effect of movements in foreign exchange
1,005
35
31
1,071
Balance at 31 March 2023
24,099
16,802
588
1,952
43,441
Additions
95
95
Disposals
(356)
(356)
Effect of movements in foreign exchange
(968)
(10)
(978)
Balance at 31 March 2024
23,131
16,802
588
1,681
42,202
Amortisation
Balance at 31 March 2022
1,130
16,734
302
1,400
19,566
Amortisation for the year
6
61
144
211
Impairment
208
208
Effect of movements in foreign exchange
(41)
17
17
(7)
Balance at 31 March 2023
1,089
16,740
588
1,561
19,978
Amortisation for the year
62
101
163
Disposals
(144)
(144)
Effect of movements in foreign exchange
15
(7)
8
Balance at 31 March 2024
1,104
16,802
588
1,511
20,005
Carrying amounts
At 1 April 2022
21,964
251
499
22,714
At 31 March 2023
23,010
62
391
23,463
At 31 March 2024
22,027
170
22,197
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
116
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
13 Intangible assets
continued
The Group has incurred research and development costs of £0.2m (2023: £0.2m) which have been
included within operating expenses in the consolidated income statement.
In the prior year, a customer-related intangible asset that had been recognised on acquisition of the US
Derry, NH, USA facility, was fully impaired as the Group has minimal trading with the customers to which
it related. The cost of £0.2m was recognised as an exceptional item in that year.
Impairment tests for cash generating units containing goodwill
Goodwill acquired in a business combination is allocated at acquisition to the cash generating units
(“CGUs”) that are expected to benefit from that business combination. The carrying amount of goodwill is
allocated to the Group’s principal CGUs, being the operating segments described in the operating segment
descriptions in note 3.
The carrying value of goodwill at 31 March 2024 and 31 March 2023 is allocated wholly to the CTP CGU as
follows:
2024
2023
£000
£000
CTP
22,027
23,010
At 31 March 2024, the recoverable amount of the CTP CGU was determined on a calculation of value in use,
being the higher of that and fair value less costs of disposal (“FVLCD”). The recoverable amount calculated
exceeds the carrying amount of the CTP CGU by £8.9m. The results of each produced the same answer,
that there is no impairment of goodwill.
The value in use calculations use cash flow projections based upon financial budgets approved by
management covering a three-year period. Cash flows beyond the three-year period are extrapolated
using estimated growth rates of between 1.5% and 4.3% (2023: 2.0% and 4.1%) depending upon the
market served.
The cash flows were discounted at a weighted average pre-tax discount rate of 16.9% (2023: 9.3% - 10.4%).
The discount rate is calculated and reviewed annually and is based on the Group’s weighted average cost
of capital. Changes in income and expenditure are based on expectations of future changes in the market.
Sensitivity testing of the recoverable amount to reasonably possible changes in key assumptions has been
performed, including changes in the discount rate and changes in forecast cash flows.
All other assumptions unchanged, a 1.6% (2023: 5.5%) increase in the discount rate to 18.5% (2023: 14.8%
- 15.9%), or an 8.1% (2023: 28.8%) decrease in underlying EBIT would reduce the headroom on the CTP
CGU to £nil. Should the discount rate increase further than this or the profitability decrease further, then an
impairment of the goodwill would be likely.
14 Property, plant and equipment
Land and
Plant and
buildings
equipment
Total
£000
£000
£000
Cost
Balance at 31 March 2022
42,923
72,127
115,050
Additions
1,662
4,148
5,810
Disposals
(1,483)
(1,483)
Reclassification to assets held for sale
(153)
(153)
Effect of movements in foreign exchange
1,709
1,840
3,549
Balance at 31 March 2023
46,141
76,632
122,773
Additions
3,623
3,864
7,487
Disposals
(2,047)
(2,413)
(4,460)
Effect of movements in foreign exchange
(1,382)
(1,528)
(2,910)
Balance at 31 March 2024
46,335
76,555
122,890
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
117
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
14 Property, plant and equipment
continued
Land and
Plant and
buildings
equipment
Total
£000
£000
£000
Depreciation and impairment losses
Balance at 31 March 2022
16,463
51,623
68,086
Depreciation charge for the year
3,596
4,219
7,815
Disposals
(999)
(999)
Reclassification to assets held for sale
(89)
(89)
Impairment
783
783
Effect of movements in foreign exchange
704
1,152
1,856
Balance at 31 March 2023
20,674
56,778
77,452
Depreciation charge for the year
3,892
3,877
7,769
Disposals
(2,282)
(1,472)
(3,754)
Reassessment of lease term
1,310
1,310
Impairment
116
1,850
1,966
Reversal of impairment
(74)
(74)
Effect of movements in foreign exchange
(701)
(1,149)
(1,850)
Balance at 31 March 2024
23,009
59,810
82,819
Carrying amounts
At 1 April 2022
26,460
20,504
46,964
At 31 March 2023
25,467
19,854
45,321
At 31 March 2024
23,326
16,745
40,071
At 31 March 2024, properties with a carrying amount of £2.8m were subject to a registered charge in favour
of the Group pension scheme (2023: £2.6m) capped at £5.1m.
Property, plant and equipment includes right-of-use assets as set out in note 4.
On 14 February 2024, the Group announced the intended closure of its Tucson, Arizona, USA facility. As a
result of this decision, it was deemed by management that at 31 March 2024 there was reasonable certainty
that the exit options within two of the property leases at that location would be exercised. As such, the lease
liability was remeasured with a corresponding adjustment recognised against the right-of-use assets of
£1.3m. Further, an impairment of £0.1m was recognised as an exceptional charge, classified as rationalisation
costs in note 8, to impair the properties to value in use based upon expected closure date.
The impairment to plant and equipment of £1.9m includes £0.9m in respect to assets obtained for
production on a leading global OEM customer who in December 2022 gave notice that they would not be
proceeding into the production phase of their project. Whilst an impairment of £0.5m was recognised in the
prior year, it was decided by management at 30 September 2023 that as the assets remained on balance
sheet with no intended use, they should be impaired to recoverable amount, being fair value, less costs to
dispose. A further impairment was recognised at the interim reporting date of £0.9m and there has been
no change to this assessment of recoverable amount at 31 March 2024. Also, following the announcement
of the intended closure of the Tucson, Arizona, USA site, management undertook an exercise to determine
the recoverable amount of assets located at this site. The assets are a combination of both owned and
leased, and recoverable amount has been determined through either fair value less costs of disposal or
value in use. As a result of this review, an impairment of £1.0m has been recognised within exceptional items
of which £0.6m is in respect to leased assets.
In the prior year, the decision by the Directors of the Group to proceed with a plan of rationalisation of
the CTP USA manufacturing footprint led to an impairment review of the Derry, NH, USA site assets and
ultimately an impairment charge of £0.3m recognised as an exceptional cost in the prior year. Assets that
had been impaired in the year to 31 March 2023 were sold for £0.1m more than their impaired value and as
such, £0.1m of the impairment provision has been reversed in the current year, recognised as a credit in
exceptional items at 31 March 2024.
FVLCD valuation uses an estimate of the value which would be expected to be received from a third party
in a sale of the asset, net of estimated sale costs. This valuation is a level 3 measurement which is based on
inputs which are normally unobservable to market participants, including offers received and management’s
experience of selling similar assets. Refer to note 13 for details of cash flows and assumptions used in value
in use calculations.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
118
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
15 Inventories
2024
2023
£000
£000
Raw materials and consumables
5,736
9,213
Work in progress
762
620
Finished goods
4,791
5,370
11,289
15,203
The value of inventories is stated after impairment for obsolescence and write downs to net realisable value
of £2.2m (2023: £1.8m). The value of inventories carried at fair value less costs to sell at 31 March 2024 is
£0.3m. The net charge to exceptional items in respect to inventory provisions in the year to 31 March 2024
is £0.2m (2023: £0.9m).
16 Contract assets
2024
2023
£000
£000
Contract assets – see note 5
1,663
5,763
The Group applies the IFRS 9 simplified approach to measuring expected credit losses which uses a lifetime
expected loss allowance for all contract assets.
To measure the expected credit losses, contract assets have been grouped based on shared credit risk
characteristics. The contract assets relate to unbilled work in progress and are therefore not past due. The
Group has reviewed the risk characteristics and considers them to be the same as the trade receivables not
past due for the same types of contracts. The Group has concluded that the expected loss rates for the
contract assets would be clearly immaterial (2023: immaterial).
Against an opening contract asset balance of £5.8m at 31 March 2023, £4.7m has been invoiced during the
year to 31 March 2024.
17 Trade and other receivables
2024
2023
£000
£000
Amounts due within one year
Trade receivables
15,187
17,512
Less impairment provisions
(694)
(737)
14,493
16,775
Prepayments
3,315
3,010
Other debtors
992
1,598
Trade and other receivables – due within one year
18,800
21,383
The Group applies the IFRS 9 simplified approach to measuring expected credit losses which uses a lifetime
expected loss allowance for all trade receivables.
The lifetime expected loss allowance takes into account historical credit loss and impairment experience
for the ongoing customer base as well as recent credit intelligence for key customer accounts which in
turn takes into account the impacts of the economic climate on credit risk. A customer of the CTP division
provided notice during the year to 31 March 2023 that it would be ceasing to operate and, due to its size,
a provision was recognised and disclosed as an exceptional cost of £0.6m in the consolidated income
statement in that year. This provision remains at 31 March 2024.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
119
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
17 Trade and other receivables
continued
To measure the expected credit losses, trade receivables have been grouped based on shared credit risk characteristics and the days past due. On that basis, the loss allowance as at 31 March was determined as follows
for trade receivables:
2024
2023
Gross carrying
Gross carrying
amount
Loss allowance
Expected loss rate
amount
Loss allowance
Expected loss rate
£000
£000
%
£000
£000
%
Not past due
13,117
63
0.5%
14,614
0.0%
Past due 0-30 days
1,302
0.0%
1,730
0.0%
Past due 31-60 days
80
0.0%
497
218
43.9%
Past due 61-120 days
104
47
49.5%
574
422
73.5%
More than 120 days
584
584
100.0%
97
97
100.0%
15,187
694
4.6%
17,512
737
4.2%
The movement in the allowance for impairment in respect of trade receivables and contract assets during the period was as follows:
2024
2023
£000
£000
Balance at 1 April
737
44
Amounts written off
(149)
Net measurement of loss allowance
(43)
842
Balance at 31 March
694
737
18 Cash and cash deposits
2024
2023
£000
£000
Cash at bank and in hand
5,974
10,354
At 31 March 2024, Carclo plc’s overdraft of £4.5m (2023: £6.5m) has been recognised within cash and cash deposits when consolidated due to a right of set-off under a UK net overdraft arrangement.
There is no cash on deposit at 31 March 2024 (2023: £0.1m).
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
120
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
19 Non-current assets classified as held for sale
2024
2023
£000
£000
Land and buildings held for sale at 1 April
266
Additions
64
Effect of movements in foreign exchange
30
Disposals
(360)
Net assets held for sale at 31 March
In the prior year, the Group finalised a sale and leaseback arrangement of a CTP division manufacturing
site at Tucson, Arizona, USA for agreed consideration of $3.0m less costs of $0.2m (£2.4m net). A lease
term of eight years and four months was agreed and granted the Group the right to cancel any time after
1 October 2025, provided twelve months’ notice is given. At 31 March 2024 there is reasonable certainty that
the Group will exercise the break clause, see note 4.
20 Loans and borrowings
2024
2023
£000
£000
Current
Bank loans:
Term loan
2,299
1,224
Lease liabilities:
Land and buildings
2,488
2,243
Plant and equipment
1,896
1,464
Other loans:
Other
70
115
6,753
5,046
Non-current
Bank loans repayable between one and two years:
Term loan
21,383
2,049
Revolving credit facility
300
Bank loans repayable between two and five years:
Term loan
25,677
Revolving credit facility
3,500
Lease liabilities:
Land and buildings
3,175
4,941
Plant and equipment
3,608
3,222
Other loans:
Other loans repayable between one and two years
151
164
Other loans repayable between two and five years
61
115
28,678
39,668
Total loans and borrowings
35,431
44,714
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
121
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
20 Loans and borrowings
continued
The UK Group companies are part of a multi-currency net overdraft facility with a £nil net limit and a
£12.5m gross limit. The overdrafts bear interest at between 2.0% and 4.5% above prevailing UK bank base
rates. At 31 March 2024, Carclo plc’s overdraft of £4.5m (2023: £6.5m) has been recognised within cash and
cash deposits when consolidated due to a right of set-off within the net overdraft facility.
On 22 June 2023, the Group’s lending bank agreed to an adjustment of the interest and the net leverage
covenants related to the facilities. On 1 June 2023, a voluntary prepayment of £0.4m was made and on
30 June 2023, a further voluntary prepayment of £3.3m was made. The debt facilities available to the
Group at 31 March 2024 comprise a term loan of £24.0m (31 March 2023: £29.3m), of which £1.0m will
be amortised by 30 September 2024 with a further £1.3m by 31 March 2025. £3.8m will be amortised in
the period between 31 May 2025 and 30 November 2025, before the balance becomes payable by the
termination date, which on 5 July 2024
was successfully extended to 31 December 2025.
At 31 March 2024, the term loans are denominated as follows: sterling 9.2m, US dollar 13.3m and euro 4.9m.
The facility also includes a £3.5m (2023: £3.5m) revolving credit facility, denominated in sterling, also
maturing 31 December 2025.
An arrangement fee of £0.1m became payable on 17 July 2023 following the deed amendment to reset
the interest cover and debt leverage covenants, which has been paid in full in the period. The £0.1m
arrangement fee, along with the £0.5m fee which became payable on completion of the September 2022
refinancing, have been deducted from the carrying value of the term loan and are being amortised over the
period to termination date. In total, £0.2m was amortised in the period ended 31 March 2024.
Bank loans incur interest at between 2.5% and 4.5% above prevailing bank reference rates.
The bank facilities are subject to four quarterly covenant tests as follows:
1.
underlying interest cover;
2.
net debt to underlying EBITDA;
3.
core subsidiary underlying EBITA; and
4.
core subsidiary revenue.
Core subsidiaries are defined as Carclo Technical Plastics Ltd, Bruntons Aero Products Ltd, Carclo
Technical Plastics (Brno) s.r.o, CTP Carrera Inc and Jacottet Industrie SAS, with CTP Taicang Co. Ltd and
Carclo Technical Plastics Pvt Co Ltd being treated as non-core for the purposes of these covenants.
The Group has complied with the financial covenants of its borrowing facilities during the financial
reporting period.
Under the terms of the first amendment and restatement agreement, the Group is not permitted to make a
dividend payment to the shareholders of Carclo plc up to the period ending 31 December 2025.
Bank loans include £24.3m (2023: £32.5m) secured on the assets of the Group. The bank loan facilities are
secured by guarantees from certain Group companies and by fixed and floating charges over certain of the
assets of a number of the Group’s companies.
Security is granted by certain Group companies to the bank such that at 31 March 2024 the gross value of
the assets secured, which includes applicable intra-group balances, goodwill and investments in subsidiaries
at net book value in the relevant component companies’ accounts, but which eliminate in the Group upon
consolidation, amounted to £202.5m (2023: £235.8m). Excluding the assets which eliminate in the Group
upon consolidation, the value of the security was £24.6m (2023: £32.6m).
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
122
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
20 Loans and borrowings
continued
Reconciliation of movements of liabilities to cash flows arising from financing activities
Term
Revolving
Lease
Other
loan
credit facility
liabilities
loans
Total
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
Balance at 31 March 2022
30,260
3,500
10,870
122
44,752
Changes from financing cash flows
Drawings on new facilities
359
359
Transaction costs associated with the issue of debt
(500)
(500)
Repayment of borrowings
(1,800)
(4,328)
(102)
(6,230)
(2,300)
(4,328)
257
(6,371)
Effect of changes in foreign exchange rates
818
373
15
1,206
Liability-related other changes
Drawings on new facilities
4,955
4,955
Interest expense – presented within exceptional items
69
69
Interest expense – presented within finance expense
103
103
172
4,955
5,127
Balance at 31 March 2023
28,950
3,500
11,870
394
44,714
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
123
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
20 Loans and borrowings
continued
Reconciliation of movements of liabilities to cash flows arising from financing activities
continued
Term
Revolving
Lease
Other
loan
credit facility
liabilities
loans
Total
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
Balance at 31 March 2023
28,950
3,500
11,870
394
44,714
Changes from financing cash flows
Drawings on new facilities
53
53
Transaction costs associated with the issue of debt
(100)
(100)
Repayment of borrowings
(5,050)
(3,200)
(3,659)
(132)
(12,041)
(5,150)
(3,200)
(3,659)
(79)
(12,088)
Effect of changes in foreign exchange rates
(332)
(229)
(33)
(594)
Liability-related other changes
Drawings on new facilities
4,583
4,583
Reassessment of lease liability
(1,349)
(1,349)
Termination of facilities
(49)
(49)
Interest expense – presented within finance expense
214
214
214
3,185
3,399
Balance at 31 March 2024
23,682
300
11,167
282
35,431
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
124
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
21 Deferred tax assets and liabilities
Recognised deferred tax assets and liabilities
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are attributable to the following:
2024
2023
£000
£000
Assets:
Property, plant and equipment
319
282
Short-term timing differences
1,224
727
Tax losses
76
176
Offset with deferred tax liabilities
(755)
Deferred tax assets
864
1,185
Liabilities:
Intangible assets
(2,476)
(2,504)
Property, plant and equipment
(874)
(1,991)
Short-term timing differences
(73)
(74)
Foreign tax on undistributed foreign profits
(118)
(348)
Offset with deferred tax assets
651
Deferred tax liabilities
(2,890)
(4,917)
Net deferred tax liability
(2,026)
(3,732)
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
125
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
21 Deferred tax assets and liabilities
continued
Unrecognised deferred tax assets
Deferred tax assets have not been recognised in respect of the following items:
2024
2023
£000
£000
Tax losses – trading
6,285
5,531
Tax losses – capital
52
52
Tax losses – non-trading
1,230
1,658
Property, plant and equipment
2,775
2,514
Short-term timing differences
470
9
Employee benefits
9,298
8,624
20,110
18,388
Deferred tax assets have not been recognised on the balance sheet to the extent that the underlying timing differences are not expected to reverse. The nature of the tax regimes in certain regions in which Carclo
operates are such that tax losses may arise even though the business is profitable. This situation is expected to continue in the medium term.
Capital losses will be recognised at the point when a transaction gives rise to an offsettable capital gain; this was not the case at 31 March 2024. Similarly, non-trading losses will only be utilised against future non-trading
profits. No such non-trading profits are foreseen at 31 March 2024.
£0.1m of the short-term timing differences recognised at 31 March 2024 (2023: £0.1m) are time restricted to five years, the remainder are available to carry forward without time restriction.
At 31 March 2024, £0.1m of deferred tax liabilities were recognised for taxes that would be deductible on the unremitted earnings of the Group’s overseas subsidiary undertakings (2023: £0.3m). As the Group policy is
to continually reinvest in those businesses, provision has not been made against unremitted earnings that are not planned to be remitted. If all earnings were remitted it is estimated that £0.7m of additional tax would be
payable (2023: £0.4m).
Deferred tax assets and liabilities at 31 March 2024 have been calculated based on the rates substantively enacted at the balance sheet date.
The main rate of corporation tax became 25% from 1 April 2023. Deferred tax on future UK balances has been calculated based on this rate. Overseas taxes are calculated at the rates prevailing in the respective
jurisdictions.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
126
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
21 Deferred tax assets and liabilities
continued
Reconciliation of movement in net recognised deferred tax liabilities
Balance
Balance
as at
Recognised
Recognised
as at
1 April 2023
in income
in equity
31 March 2024
£000
£000
£000
£000
Property, plant and equipment
(1,709)
1,136
20
(553)
Intangible assets
(2,504)
29
(2,475)
Short-term timing differences
653
401
(9)
1,045
Tax losses
176
(93)
(7)
76
Foreign tax on undistributed foreign profits
(348)
229
(119)
(3,732)
1,673
33
(2,026)
Balance
Balance
as at
Recognised
Recognised
as at
1 April 2022
in income
in equity
31 March 2023
£000
£000
£000
£000
Property, plant and equipment
(1,263)
(359)
(87)
(1,709)
Intangible assets
(2,622)
202
(84)
(2,504)
Short-term timing differences
(67)
736
(16)
653
Tax losses
870
(691)
(3)
176
Foreign tax on undistributed foreign profits
(393)
45
(348)
(3,475)
(67)
(190)
(3,732)
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
127
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
22 Retirement benefit obligations
The Group operates a defined benefit UK pension scheme which provides pensions based on service and
final pay. Outside of the UK, retirement benefits are determined according to local practice and funded
accordingly.
In the UK, Carclo plc sponsors the Carclo Group Pension Scheme (the “Scheme”), a funded defined
benefit pension scheme which provides defined benefits for some of its members. This is a legally separate,
trustee-administered fund holding the Scheme’s assets to meet long-term pension liabilities for some
2,493 current and past employees as at 31 March 2024.
The trustees of the Scheme are required to act in the best interest of the Scheme’s beneficiaries.
The appointment of the trustees is determined by the Scheme’s trust documentation. It is policy that
one-third of all trustees should be nominated by the members. The trustees currently comprise two
Company-nominated trustees (of which one is an independent professional trustee and one is the
independent professional Chairperson) as well as two member-nominated trustees. The trustees are also
responsible for the investment of the Scheme’s assets.
The Scheme provides pensions and lump sums to members on retirement and to their dependants on
death. The level of retirement benefit is principally based on final pensionable salary prior to leaving active
service and is linked to changes in inflation up to retirement. The defined benefit section is closed to new
entrants who instead have the option of entering into the defined contribution section of the Scheme, and
the Group has elected to cease future accrual for existing members of the defined benefit section such that
members who have not yet retired are entitled to a deferred pension.
The Company currently pays contributions to the Scheme as determined by regular actuarial valuations.
The trustees are required to use prudent assumptions to value the liabilities and costs of the Scheme
whereas the accounting assumptions must be best estimates.
The Scheme is subject to the funding legislation, which came into force on 30 December 2005, outlined
in the Pensions Act 2004. This, together with documents issued by the Pensions Regulator and Guidance
Notes adopted by the Financial Reporting Council, set out the framework for funding defined benefit
occupational pension plans in the UK.
A full actuarial valuation was carried out as at 31 March 2021 in accordance with the scheme funding
requirements of the Pensions Act 2004. The funding of the Scheme is agreed between the Group and the
trustees in line with those requirements. These, in particular, require the surplus or deficit to be calculated
using prudent, as opposed to best estimate, actuarial assumptions. The 31 March 2021 actuarial valuation
showed a deficit of £82.8m. Under the recovery plan agreed with the trustees following the 2021 valuation,
the Group agreed that it would aim to eliminate the deficit, over a period of 18 years and 7 months starting
from the valuation date and continuing until 31 October 2039, by the payment of annual contributions
combined with the assumed asset returns in excess of gilt yields. Contributions paid in respect of the year to
31 March 2023 amounted to £3.9m, £3.5m in respect of the year to 31 March 2024 and are agreed as £3.5m
annually thereafter, plus additional contributions of 26% of any surplus of FY25 underlying EBITDA over
£18.0m payable from 30 June 2025 to 31 May 2026. These contributions include an allowance in respect
of the expenses of running the Scheme and the Pension Protection Fund (“PPF”) levy of £0.9m in years
ending 31 March 2024 and 2025 and £0.6m in the year to 31 March 2026 and beyond.
At each triennial valuation, the schedule of contributions is reviewed and reconsidered between the
employer and the trustees; the next review being no later than by 31 July 2025 after the results of the
31 March 2024 triennial valuation are known.
On 14 August 2020, additional security was granted by certain Group companies to the Scheme trustees
such that at 31 March 2024 the gross value of the assets secured, which includes applicable intra-group
balances, goodwill and investments in subsidiaries at net book value in the relevant component companies’
accounts, but which eliminate in the Group upon consolidation, amounted to £207.6m (2023: £240.9m).
Excluding the assets which eliminate in the Group upon consolidation, the value of the security was £29.7m
(2023: £37.7m).
For the purposes of IAS 19, the results of the actuarial valuation as at 31 March 2021, which was carried out
by a qualified independent actuary, have been updated on an approximate basis to 31 March 2024. There
have been no changes in the valuation methodology adopted for this period’s disclosures compared to the
previous period’s disclosures.
The Scheme exposes the Group to actuarial risks and the key risks are set out in the table presented
on page 128. In each instance these risks would detrimentally impact the Group’s statement of financial
position and may give rise to increased interest costs in the Group income statement. The trustees could
require higher cash contributions or additional security from the Group.
The trustees manage governance and operational risks through a number of internal controls policies,
including a risk register and integrated risk management.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
128
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
22 Retirement benefit obligations
continued
Risk
Description
Mitigation
Investment risk
Weaker than expected investment returns result in a
The trustees continually monitor investment risk and performance and have established an investment
worsening in the Scheme’s funding position.
sub-committee which includes a Group representative, meets regularly and is advised by professional investment
advisors. A number of the investment managers operate tactical investment management of the plan assets.
The Scheme currently invests approximately 68% of its asset value in liability-driven investments, 30% in a portfolio
of diversified growth funds and 2% in cash and liquidity funds. The objective of the growth portfolio is that in
combination, the matching credit, liability-driven investments and cash components generate sufficient return to
meet the overall portfolio return objective.
Interest rate risk
A decrease in corporate bond yields increases the present
The trustees’ investment strategy includes investing in liability-driven investments and bonds whose values increase
value of the IAS 19 defined benefit obligations.
with decreases in interest rates.
A decrease in gilt yields results in a worsening in the
Approximately 60% of the Scheme’s funded liabilities are currently hedged against interest rates using liability-driven
Scheme’s funding position.
investments.
It should be noted that the Scheme hedges interest rate risk on a statutory and long-term funding basis (gilts)
whereas AA corporate bonds are implicit in the IAS 19 discount rate and so there is some mismatching risk to the
Group should yields on gilts and corporate bonds diverge.
Inflation risk
An increase in inflation results in higher benefit increases for
The trustees’ investment strategy includes investing in liability-driven investments which will move with inflation
members which in turn increases the Scheme’s liabilities.
expectations with approximately 60% of the Scheme’s inflation-linked liabilities being hedged on a funded basis.
The growth assets held are expected to provide protection over inflation in the long term.
Mortality risk
An increase in life expectancy leads to benefits being
The trustees’ actuary provides regular updates on mortality, based on scheme experience, and the assumption
payable for a longer period which results in an increase in the
continues to be reviewed.
Scheme’s liabilities.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
129
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
22 Retirement benefit obligations
continued
The amounts recognised in the statement of financial position in respect of the defined benefit scheme
were as follows:
2024
2023
£000
£000
Present value of funded obligations
(130,420)
(134,091)
Fair value of scheme assets
93,234
99,598
Recognised liability for defined benefit obligations
(37,186)
(34,493)
The present value of Scheme liabilities is measured by discounting the best estimate of future cash flows
to be paid out of the Scheme using the projected unit credit method. The value calculated in this way is
reflected in the net liability in the statement of financial position as shown above.
The projected unit credit method is an accrued benefits valuation method in which allowance is made for
projected earnings increases. The accumulated benefit obligation is an alternative actuarial measure of
the Scheme’s liabilities whose calculation differs from that under the projected unit credit method in that it
includes no assumption for future earnings increases. In this case, as the Scheme is closed to future accrual,
the accumulated benefit obligation is equal to the valuation using the projected unit credit method.
All actuarial remeasurement gains and losses will be recognised in the year in which they occur in other
comprehensive income.
The cumulative remeasurement net loss reported in the statement of comprehensive income since
1 April 2004 is £54.101m.
IFRIC 14 has no effect on the figures disclosed because the Company has an unconditional right to a refund
under the resulting trust principle.
Movements in the net liability for defined benefit obligations recognised in
the consolidated statement of financial position
2024
2023
£000
£000
Net liability for defined benefit obligations at the start of the year
(34,493)
(25,979)
Contributions paid
3,500
4,142
Net expense recognised in the consolidated income statement
(see below)
(3,525)
(2,079)
Remeasurement losses recognised in other comprehensive income
(2,668)
(10,577)
Net liability for defined benefit obligations at the end
of the year
(37,186)
(34,493)
Movements in the present value of defined benefit obligations
2024
2023
£000
£000
Defined benefit obligation at the start of the year
134,091
181,759
Interest expense
6,615
4,750
Actuarial loss due to scheme experience
1,308
4,897
Actuarial gains due to changes in demographic assumptions
(2,187)
(7,539)
Actuarial loss/(gains) due to changes in financial assumptions
585
(38,032)
Benefits paid
(11,012)
(11,744)
Past service cost (see note 8)
1,020
Defined benefit obligation at the end of the year
130,420
134,091
There have been no plan amendments, curtailments or settlements during the period.
The English High Court ruling in Lloyds Banking Group Pension Trustees Limited v Lloyds Bank plc and others
was published on 26 October 2018, and held that UK pension schemes with Guaranteed Minimum Pensions
(“GMPs”) accrued from 17 May 1990 must equalise for the different effects of these GMPs between men and
women. The case also gave some guidance on related matters, including the methods for equalisation.
The trustees of the plan will need to obtain legal advice covering the impact of the ruling on the plan, before
deciding with the employer on the method to adopt. The legal advice will need to consider (amongst other
things) the appropriate GMP equalisation solution, whether there should be a time limit on the obligation to
make back-payments to members (the “look-back” period) and the treatment of former members (members
who have died without a spouse and members who have transferred out for example).
In the year to 31 March 2020, the trustees commissioned scheme-specific calculations to determine the likely
impact of the ruling on the Scheme. An allowance for the impact of GMP equalisation was included within the
accounting figures for that year, increasing liabilities by 1.68%, and a resulting past service cost of £3.6m was
recognised in the income statement at that time. The Scheme has not yet implemented GMP equalisation and
therefore the allowance made in 2019 has been maintained for accounting disclosures.
On 20 November 2020, the High Court issued a supplementary ruling in the Lloyds Bank GMP equalisation
case with respect to members that have transferred out of their scheme prior to the ruling. The results mean
that trustees are obliged to make top-up payments that reflect equalisation benefits and to make top-up
payments where this was not the case in the past. Also, a defined benefit scheme that received a transfer is
concurrently obliged to provide equalised benefits in respect to the transfer payments and, finally, there were
no exclusions on the grounds of discharge forms, CETV legislation, forfeiture provisions or the Limitation
Act 1980.
The impact of this ruling was estimated to cost £0.2m (approximately 0.1% of liabilities). This additional service
cost was recognised through the income statement as a past service cost in the year ended 31 March 2021
and was presented within exceptional items and therefore the impact of the ruling is allowed for in the figures
presented at 31 March 2024.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
130
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
22 Retirement benefit obligations
continued
During the year to 31 March 2024, the trustees of the Scheme identified that a group of members required
an adjustment to their benefits in respect of the requirement to provide equal benefits to males and females
following the Barber judgement in 1990. In summary, the adjustment consisted of decreasing the normal
retirement age from 65 to 60 for some members’ benefits, for some elements of service after 17 May 1990.
This has resulted in additional liabilities in the Scheme which have been accounted for as a £1.0m past
service cost in the income statement, recognised as an exceptional cost (approximately 0.8% of liabilities).
The Scheme liabilities are split between active, deferred and pensioner members at 31 March as follows:
2024
2023
%
%
Active
Deferred
28
29
Pensioners
72
71
100
100
Movements in the fair value of Scheme assets
2024
2023
£000
£000
Fair value of Scheme assets at the start of the year
99,598
155,780
Interest income
4,789
4,085
Loss on Scheme assets excluding interest income
(2,962)
(51,251)
Contributions by employer
3,500
4,142
Benefits paid
(11,012)
(11,744)
Expenses paid
(679)
(1,414)
Fair value of Scheme assets at the end of the year
93,234
99,598
Actual gain/(loss) on Scheme assets
1,827
(47,166)
The fair value of Scheme asset investments was as follows:
2024
2023
£000
£000
Diversified growth funds
27,484
28,463
Bonds and liability-driven investment funds
63,777
68,365
Cash and liquidity funds
1,973
2,770
Total assets
93,234
99,598
None of the fair values of the assets shown above include any of the Group’s own financial instruments or
any property occupied, or other assets used by the Group.
All of the Scheme assets have a quoted market price in an active market with the exception of the trustees’
bank account balance.
Diversified growth funds are pooled funds invested across a diversified range of assets with the aim of
giving long-term investment growth with lower short-term volatility than equities.
It is the policy of the trustees and the Group to review the investment strategy at the time of each funding
valuation. The trustees’ investment objectives and the processes undertaken to measure and manage the
risks inherent in the Scheme are set out in the Statement of Investment Principles.
A proportion of the Scheme’s assets is invested in the BMO LDI Nominal Dynamic LDI Fund and in the BMO
LDI Real Dynamic LDI Fund which provides a degree of asset liability matching.
The net expense recognised in the consolidated income statement was as follows:
2024
2023
£000
£000
Past service cost
1,020
Net interest on the net defined benefit liability
1,826
665
Scheme administration expenses
679
1,414
3,525
2,079
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
131
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
22 Retirement benefit obligations
continued
The net expense recognised in the following line items in the consolidated income statement was as follows:
2024
2023
£000
£000
Charged to operating profit
662
1,242
Charged to exceptional items
1,037
172
Other finance revenue and expense – net interest on the net defined
benefit liability
1,826
665
3,525
2,079
The principal actuarial assumptions at the balance sheet date (expressed as weighted averages) were:
2024
2023
%
%
Discount rate at 31 March
4.85
4.90
Future salary increases
N/A
N/A
Inflation (RPI) (non-pensioner)
3.30
3.25
Inflation (CPI) (non-pensioner)
2.80
2.75
Allowance for revaluation of deferred pensions of RPI or 5% p.a. if less
3.30
3.25
Allowance for revaluation of deferred pensions of CPI or 5% p.a. if less
2.80
2.75
Allowance for pension in payment increases of RPI or 5% p.a. if less
3.05
2.90
Allowance for pension in payment increases of CPI or 3% p.a. if less
2.15
2.00
Allowance for pension in payment increases of RPI or 5% p.a. if less,
minimum 3% p.a.
3.75
3.80
Allowance for pension in payment increases of RPI or 5% p.a. if less,
minimum 4% p.a.
4.30
4.35
The mortality assumptions adopted at 31 March 2024 are 165% of each of the standard tables S3PMA/
S3PFA (2023: 165% of S3PMA/S3PFA respectively), year of birth, no age rating for males and females,
projected using CMI_2022 (2023: CMI_2021) converging to 1.0% p.a. (2023: 1.0%) with a smoothing
parameter 7.0% (2023: 7.0%).
It is recognised that the Core CMI_2022 model is likely to represent an overly cautious view of experience
in the near term. As a result, management has applied judgement and has adopted additional weightings
of 10% above the core parameters for 2020, 2021 and 2022 data (2023: 10% of 2020 and 2021 data) to
represent possible future trend as a best estimate. This will be kept under review in the future. These
assumptions imply the following life expectancies:
2024
2023
Life expectancy for a male (current pensioner) aged 65
17.4 years
17.8 years
Life expectancy for a female (current pensioner) aged 65
20.1 years
20.4 years
Life expectancy at 65 for a male aged 45
18.3 years
18.7 years
Life expectancy at 65 for a female aged 45
21.2 years
21.6 years
It is assumed that 75% of the post A-Day maximum for active and deferred members will be commuted for
cash (2023: 75%).
Pension Increase Exchange take-up was estimated to be 40% on implementation in the year ended
31 March 2022; there has been no change made to this assumption nor to the 2021 bridging pension option
take-up of 40%.
The pension scheme liabilities are derived using actuarial assumptions for inflation, future salary increases,
discount rates, mortality rates and commutation. Due to the relative size of the Scheme’s liabilities, small
changes to these assumptions can give rise to a significant impact on the pension scheme deficit reported
in the Group statement of financial position.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
132
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
22 Retirement benefit obligations
continued
The sensitivity to the principal actuarial assumptions of the present value of the defined benefit obligation is shown in the following table:
2024
2024
2023
2023
%
£000
%
£000
Discount rate
1
Increase of 0.25% per annum
(2.45)
(3,194)
(2.41)
(3,228)
Decrease of 0.25% per annum
2.56
3,334
2.51
3,365
Decrease of 1.0% per annum
10.93
14,253
10.71
14,363
Inflation
2
Increase of 0.25% per annum
0.81
1,057
0.64
853
Increase of 1.0% per annum
3.09
4,032
2.77
3,711
Decrease of 1.0% per annum
(2.86)
(3,730)
(2.61)
(3,499)
Life expectancy
Increase of 1 year
4.25
5,545
4.30
5,765
1.
At 31 March 2024, the assumed discount rate is 4.85% (2023: 4.90%).
2. At 31 March 2024, the assumed rate of RPI inflation is 3.30% and CPI inflation 2.80% (2023: RPI 3.25% and CPI 2.75%).
The sensitivities shown above are approximate. Each sensitivity considers one change in isolation. The inflation sensitivity includes the impact of changes to the assumptions for revaluation and pension increases.
The weighted average duration of the defined benefit obligation at 31 March 2024 is ten years (2023: twelve years).
The life expectancy assumption at 31 March 2024 is based upon increasing the age rating assumption by one year (2023: one year).
Other than those specifically mentioned above, there were no changes in the methods and assumptions used in preparing the sensitivity analysis from the prior year.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
133
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
22 Retirement benefit obligations
continued
The history of the Scheme’s deficits and experience gains and losses is shown in the following table:
2024
2023
£000
£000
Present value of funded obligation
(130,420)
(134,091)
Fair value of Scheme asset investments
93,234
99,598
Recognised liability for defined benefit obligations
(37,186)
(34,493)
Actual loss on Scheme assets
1,827
(47,166)
Actuarial gains due to changes in demographic assumptions
2,187
7,539
Actuarial (loss)/gains due to changes in financial assumptions
(585)
38,032
23 Provisions
2024
2023
Tucson, USA
Legacy
Onerous
Legacy
Onerous
restructuring
health claims
contract
Total
health claims
contract
Total
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
Provisions at the start of the year
302
171
473
87
87
Provision established in the period
709
12
721
302
171
473
Provisions used in the period
(6)
(171)
(177)
(87)
(87)
Provision released in the period
(296)
(296)
Provisions at the end of the year
709
12
721
302
171
473
Current
709
12
721
302
171
473
Following the announcement of the closure of the Tucson, Arizona, USA facility on 14 February 2024, provision has been made in the current period for employee redundancy, and dilapidations relating to the leased
properties on that site. Provisions recognised are management’s best estimates of the cost that will be required to settle the Group‘s obligation at a future date. Advice has been sought from a third party who has
provided an estimate of the cost to make good the properties prior to exit; however, until the final cost is agreed with the lessor, this remains an estimate. Following closure (expected before 31 March 2025), any unused
provision will be released to exceptional items as a credit in FY25. Other provisions have been recognised at 31 March 2024 for impairment of fixed assets and inventory at this site and are deducted from the carrying
value of the respective assets on the balance sheet. All Tucson closure-related costs have been recognised as exceptional in the income statement in the period to 31 March 2024, see note 8.
Provision was made in the year to 31 March 2023 for legacy health-related claims which were classified as exceptional in the income statement. The outcome was determined in the current period resulting in the release
of the provision, less costs, back to exceptional items as a credit. During the year to 31 March 2024, provision has been made for a new claim; external advice has been sought.
The short lease at the CTP US site in Derry, NH ended mid-March 2024 when the site was closed; the provision recognised at 31 March 2023 was fully utilised in the period.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
134
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
24 Trade and other payables – falling due within one year
2024
2023
£000
£000
Trade payables
10,005
13,085
Other taxes and social security costs
712
940
Other creditors
1,405
2,599
Accruals
5,368
4,784
17,490
21,408
25 Ordinary share capital
Ordinary shares of 5 pence each
Number
of shares
£000
Issued and fully paid at 31 March 2023
73,419,193
3,671
Issued and fully paid at 31 March 2024
73,419,193
3,671
There are 15,974 vested shares outstanding in respect of a buyout award granted to a former Director of the Company. These are yet to be issued.
There are 4,606,957 potential share options outstanding under the performance share plan at 31 March 2024 (2023: 2,857,752). No options vested during the year to 31 March 2024 (2023: nil).
Outstanding awards under the performance share plan are as follows:
Date
Number of
Earliest
granted
shares
Price
date of vesting
Performance share plan
5 August 2021
621,043
nil
5 August 2024
Performance share plan
3 August 2022
670,914
nil
3 August 2025
Performance share plan
21 September 2023
3,315,000
nil
21 September 2026
Conditional share awards have been granted to Executive Directors and senior managers within the Group under the Carclo plc 2017 Performance Share Plan (the “PSP”). In addition, a number of managers have been
granted conditional cash awards linked to the future value of Carclo plc shares, which also fall within the scope of IFRS 2 Share-based Payments.
The vesting conditions for the outstanding cash and equity awards are linked to continued employment and satisfaction of market-based and non-market-based performance conditions.
As required under IFRS 2, a charge is recognised for the conditional share awards and conditional cash awards granted under the PSP, and awards are valued using a Monte Carlo model and a Black-Scholes model.
Additional awards granted to Executive Directors are subject to a two-year post-vesting holding period applicable to the post-tax number of shares acquired on vest. For these awards, a discount for lack of marketability
(“DLOM”) has been calculated using a Finnerty model.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
135
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
25 Ordinary share capital
continued
The fair value per share of the awards under the performance share plan granted in the year is as follows:
2024
Restricted
Restricted
Cash award
Cash award
Equity award
Equity award
equity award
equity award
Performance share plan – date granted 21 September 2023
TSR
EPS
TSR
EPS
TSR
EPS
Number of shares per tranche
100,000
100,000
557,500
557,500
1,000,000
1,000,000
Fair value at grant date
1.6p
12.7p
1.6p
12.7p
1.4p
10.8p
Share price at grant date
12.73p
12.73p
12.73p
12.73p
12.73p
12.73p
Exercise price
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p
Risk-free rate
4.35%
4.35%
4.35%
4.35%
4.35%
4.35%
Expected volatility
73.20%
73.20%
73.20%
73.20%
73.20%
73.20%
Expected dividend yield
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
2023
Restricted
Restricted
Cash award
Cash award
Equity award
Equity award
equity award
equity award
Performance share plan – date granted 3 August 2022
TSR
EPS
TSR
EPS
TSR
EPS
Number of shares per tranche
414,658
414,658
260,550
260,550
100,079
100,079
Fair value at grant date
3.8p
12.8p
10.9p
20.2p
8.3p
15.4p
Share price at grant date
20.2p
20.2p
20.2p
20.2p
20.2p
20.2p
Exercise price
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p
Risk-free rate
1.79%
1.79%
1.79%
1.79%
1.79%
1.79%
Expected volatility
106.11%
106.11%
106.11%
106.11%
106.11%
106.11%
Expected dividend yield
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
Restricted equity awards are subject to a two-year post-vesting holding period.
The equity and restricted equity awards issued under the performance share plan on 21 September 2023, 3 August 2022 and 5 August 2021 have a split performance condition whereby half of the awards would vest after
three years based on performance compared to total shareholder return (“TSR”) and the remaining half would vest based on earnings per share (“EPS”) performance. For those granted on 21 September 2023, 100% of
the awards subject to the TSR performance condition will vest where the Company’s average share price during the 60 days prior to vest (the “measurement period”) is at least 100 pence and 0% vest if the average is
lower than 40 pence, with options vesting in a straight-line apportionment between 40 pence and 100 pence. For grants made on 3 August 2022 and 5 August 2021, 100% of the awards subject to the TSR performance
condition will vest where the Company’s average share price during the 30 days prior to vest (the “measurement period”) is at least 90 pence and 0% vest if the average is lower than 70 pence, and 5% will vest for each
whole penny that the share price during the measurement period exceeds 70 pence. Cash awards are subject to a cap on the quantum of cash which can be paid which is equal to the number of shares underpinning the
award multiplied by 100 pence and 90 pence respectively.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
136
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
25 Ordinary share capital
continued
100% of awards granted on 21 September 2023, subject to the EPS condition, will vest in full if Carclo plc’s EPS for the financial year ending 31 March 2026 (31 March 2025 and 31 March 2024 for the awards granted on
3 August 2022 and 5 August 2021 respectively) is at least 10.0 pence and 0% will vest if less than 6.0 pence (2022 and 2021 grants: 100% if more than 8.0 pence and 0% if less than 6.0 pence). Between 10.0 pence and
6.0 pence, awards will vest on a straight-line apportionment (2022 and 2021: 5% of the shares subject to the EPS part of the award would vest for every 0.1 pence above 6.0 pence).
The expected volatility is based on the historical volatility (calculated based on the weighted average remaining life of the share options), adjusted for any expected changes to future volatility due to publicly available
information.
The amounts recognised in the income statement arising from equity-settled share-based payments was a charge of £0.05m (2023: credit of £0.05m).
The number and weighted average exercise price of the outstanding awards under the PSP are set out in the following table:
2024
2023
Weighted
Weighted
average
average
exercise
exercise
price
Number
price
Number
pence
of shares
pence
of shares
Outstanding at 1 April
2,873,726
1,533,350
Lapsed during the period
(1,565,795)
(210,198)
Exercised during the period
Granted during the period
3,315,000
1,550,574
Outstanding at the end of the period
4,622,931
2,873,726
Exercisable at 31 March
15,974
15,974
Weighted average remaining contractual life at 31 March
2.02 years
1.87 years
26 Reserves
Translation reserve
The translation reserve comprises all foreign exchange differences arising from the translation of the financial statements of foreign operations that are not integral to the operations of the Company, as well as from the
translation of liabilities that hedge the Company’s net investment in a foreign subsidiary.
Retained earnings
Netted against retained earnings is the cost of own shares held by the Group. The Company maintains an employee share ownership plan for the benefit of employees and which can be used in conjunction with any of
the Group’s share option schemes. As at 31 March 2024, the plan held 3,077 shares (2023: 3,077 shares). The original cost of these shares was £0.003m (2023: £0.003m). The cost of the shares was charged against the
profit and loss account.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
137
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
27 Financial instruments
The Group’s financial instruments comprise bank loans and overdrafts, cash and short-term deposits.
These financial instruments are used for the purpose of funding the Group’s operations. In addition, the
Group has other financial instruments such as trade receivables, trade payables and lease liabilities which
arise directly from its operational activities.
The Group is exposed to a range of financial risks as part of its day-to-day activities. These include credit
risk, interest rate risk, liquidity risk and foreign currency risk.
a) Credit risk
Credit risk is the risk of financial loss to the Group if a customer or financial institution fails to meet its
contractual obligations. The Group’s credit risk is mainly attributable to its trade receivables which the
Group mitigates by way of credit insurance. Credit insurance, covering insolvency, default and political risk,
is sought for all customers where exposure is in excess of £0.02m. The amounts shown in the balance sheet
are after making due provision for any credit loss provision.
The Group maintains any surplus cash balances on deposit accounts or legal offset accounts with the
Group’s principal bank, which has a high credit rating assigned by independent international credit
rating agencies. In addition, the Group has undrawn revolving credit facilities of £3.2m at 31 March 2024
(2023: £nil).
The maximum exposure to credit risk as at 31 March was:
2024
2023
£000
£000
Trade receivables, net of attributable impairment provisions
(see note 17)
14,493
16,775
Cash and cash deposits (see note 18)
5,974
10,354
Contract assets (see note 16)
1,663
5,763
22,130
32,892
Carclo is a worldwide supplier of components and systems. As a consequence, the Group’s trade
receivables and contract assets reside across a broad spectrum of countries with potentially higher
attributable credit risk in certain territories. The following tables analyse the geographical location of trade
receivables (net of attributable impairment provisions) and of contract assets:
2024
2023
£000
£000
United Kingdom
6,557
6,693
Rest of Europe
1,298
1,537
North America
4,233
6,063
Rest of world
2,405
2,482
Trade receivables, net of attributable impairment provisions
14,493
16,775
United Kingdom
292
1,165
Rest of Europe
33
276
North America
1,335
4,321
Rest of world
3
1
Contract assets, net of attributable impairment provisions
1,663
5,763
b) Interest rate risk
The Group’s borrowings are on fixed and floating rate terms, no borrowings are non-interest bearing. The
interest charge borne by the Group in the year to 31 March 2024 was c.40% higher than prior year as a result
of significant market interest rate increases impacting the floating rate borrowings.
The interest rate profile of financial liabilities by currency of the Group as at 31 March was as follows:
Fixed
Floating
rate interest
rate interest
payable
payable
Total
£000
£000
£000
As at 31 March 2024
Sterling
4,546
9,422
13,968
US dollar
5,368
10,569
15,937
Euro
1,148
4,212
5,360
Other
166
166
11,228
24,203
35,431
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
138
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
27 Financial instruments
continued
b) Interest rate risk
continued
Fixed
Floating
rate interest
rate interest
payable
payable
Total
£000
£000
£000
As at 31 March 2023
Sterling
4,979
17,337
22,316
US dollar
5,966
10,789
16,755
Euro
886
4,324
5,210
Other
433
433
12,264
32,450
44,714
The interest rate profile of financial assets by currency of the Group as at 31 March was as follows:
Floating
Non-interest
rate interest
bearing
receivable
receivable
Total
£000
£000
£000
As at 31 March 2024
Sterling
30
30
US dollar
40
2,881
2,921
Euro
1,707
1,707
Other
1,316
1,316
40
5,934
5,974
Floating
Non-interest
rate interest
bearing
receivable
receivable
Total
£000
£000
£000
As at 31 March 2023
Sterling
1,965
1,965
US dollar
132
3,694
3,826
Euro
3,157
3,157
Other
81
1,325
1,406
213
10,141
10,354
The floating rate of interest earned on cash balances is in the range bank base -1% to bank base +2%.
The Group has a UK multi-currency net overdraft facility with a £nil net limit and a £12.5m gross limit.
The overdrafts bear interest at 4.5% above prevailing UK bank base rates. At 31 March 2024, Carclo plc’s
overdraft of £4.5m (2023: £6.5m) has been recognised within cash and cash deposits when consolidated
due to a right of set-off.
c) Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they fall due.
The Group manages this risk by maintaining a mixture of term loans, revolving credit facilities and
short-term overdraft facilities which have been established to ensure that adequate funding is available
for its operating, investing and financing activities. Refer to note 20 for further details.
As detailed in note 20, at 31 March 2024, the Group had committed term loans outstanding of £24.0m
(2023: £29.3m) and a committed revolving credit facility available of £3.5m which was £0.3m drawn
(2023: £3.5m facility, £3.5m drawn).
The Group’s net debt at 31 March 2024 was £29.5m (2023: £34.4m). The net debt comprised £35.4m
interest-bearing loans and borrowings (see note 20) less £6.0m cash and cash deposits (see note 18).
The Group’s term loan and revolving credit facilities are available in the UK; net overdraft facilities available
in the UK totalled £nil at 31 March 2024 and as such the plc overdraft at year end of £4.5m has been
presented net against cash and cash deposits.
The Group performs a detailed, weekly, rolling 13-week cash flow forecast to help manage its short-term
liquidity risk. Additionally, the Board monitors a monthly twelve-month Group cash flow forecast, comparing
it to internal targets and covenants and thresholds established with the Group’s bankers.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
139
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
27 Financial instruments
continued
c) Liquidity risk
continued
The maturity of financial liabilities of the Group as at 31 March was as follows:
Term
Revolving credit
Lease
loan
facility
Other loans
liabilities
Total
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
As at 31 March 2024
Within 1 year
2,299
70
4,385
6,754
Within 1 to 2 years
21,383
300
151
1,876
23,710
Within 2 to 5 years
61
4,147
4,208
More than 5 years
759
759
23,682
300
282
11,167
35,431
Term
Revolving credit
Lease
loan
facility
Other loans
liabilities
Total
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
As at 31 March 2023
Within 1 year
1,224
115
3,707
5,046
Within 1 to 2 years
2,049
164
3,584
5,797
Within 2 to 5 years
25,677
3,500
115
3,856
33,148
More than 5 years
723
723
28,950
3,500
394
11,870
44,714
d) Foreign currency risk
The Group has a number of overseas subsidiary operations. The major overseas subsidiaries are located in the United States, France, the Czech Republic, China and India. Hence, the balance sheet of the Group can be
affected by the applicable conversion rates, the sterling/US dollar exchange rate in particular. It is the Group’s policy to hedge the effect of such structural currency exposures by having borrowings in the appropriate
currencies where it is considered efficient to do so. A loan of $13.3m (2023: $13.3m) is designated as the hedging instrument against foreign currency exposures in the net investment in the trading subsidiaries in the
United States. A loan of €4.9m (2023: €4.9m) is designated as the hedging instrument against foreign currency exposures in the net investment in the European operations. Under this hedge accounting, foreign
exchange gains and losses on non-GBP loans are recognised, not in the income statement, but in other comprehensive income.
In addition, the Group is subject to transactional foreign currency exposures arising from the sale and purchase of goods and services in currency other than the Company’s local currency. Historically it has been the
Group’s policy to hedge such exposure where the net exposure in any one currency exceeds an estimated £20,000 on any day using forward contracts. However, within the UK operations, opportunities have been
exploited to naturally hedge inflows in currency with similar outflows. It is the Group’s policy not to undertake any speculative transactions.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
140
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
27 Financial instruments
continued
d) Foreign currency risk
continued
The fair value of the forward contracts at the start and end of the financial year was immaterial. The cash flows associated with the forward contracts are summarised as follows:
2024
2023
Less than
Less than
6 months
6-12 months
6 months
6-12 months
£000
£000
£000
£000
Assets
923
Liabilities
923
The balance sheet exposure to currency at the year end arising from trading activities is illustrated in the following analysis by currency of the Group’s trade receivables and trade payables:
Sterling
US dollar
Euro
Other
Total
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
As at 31 March 2024
Trade receivables, net of attributable impairment provisions (see note 17)
5,425
4,908
2,361
1,799
14,493
Trade payables (see note 24)
(3,006)
(5,355)
(704)
(940)
(10,005)
Net
2,419
(447)
1,657
859
4,488
As at 31 March 2023
Trade receivables, net of attributable impairment provisions
5,982
6,407
1,581
2,805
16,775
Trade payables
(3,777)
(7,086)
(1,249)
(973)
(13,085)
Net
2,205
(679)
332
1,832
3,690
The following table summarises the main exchange rates used during the year:
Average rate
Reporting date mid-market rate
2024
2023
2024
2023
Sterling/US dollar
1.26
1.19
1.26
1.24
Sterling/Euro
1.16
1.18
1.17
1.14
Sterling/Czech koruna
28.33
27.74
29.53
26.69
Sterling/Chinese yuan
8.98
8.22
9.12
8.50
Sterling/Indian rupee
104.17
96.99
105.23
101.56
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
141
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
27 Financial instruments
continued
d) Foreign currency risk
continued
Fair values
The fair value is the amount at which a financial instrument could be exchanged in an arm’s length transaction between third parties. Where available, market values are used to determine fair values, otherwise fair values
are calculated by discounting expected cash flows at prevailing interest and exchange rates. The fair value of the derivatives and financial instruments was not materially different to the book value at 31 March 2024 and
31 March 2023. Unrecognised and deferred gains and losses in respect of derivatives and financial instruments at 31 March 2024 were insignificant.
Hedges of net investments in foreign operations
The Group has net investments in foreign operations in its subsidiaries in North America, France, the Czech Republic, China and India, as detailed in note 3 Segment reporting – Analysis by geographical segment.
A foreign currency exposure arises from the Group’s net investments in subsidiaries with foreign currencies i.e. functional currencies other than sterling. The risk arises from the fluctuations in spot exchange rates
between these foreign currencies and sterling (in particular the sterling/US dollar exchange rate), which causes the amount of the Group’s net investment to vary when translated into sterling.
Parts of the Group’s net investments in these overseas subsidiaries are hedged by foreign currency denominated, secured bank loans, as detailed in note 20 Loans and borrowings. This mitigates the foreign currency
risks arising from the subsidiary’s net assets. The loan is designated as a hedging instrument for the changes in the value of the net investments that are attributable to changes in the spot exchange rates.
A summary of the Group’s hedges of net investments in foreign operations is as follows:
2024
2023
Carrying amount
Carrying amount
Loans and
Loans and
borrowings
Assets
Liabilities
borrowings
Assets
Liabilities
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
US dollar
10,569
39,692
(17,848)
10,789
56,240
(28,329)
Euro
4,212
5,251
(1,223)
4,324
5,244
(1,081)
Other currencies
23,603
(4,268)
34,659
(12,017)
To assess hedge effectiveness, the Group determines the economic relationship between the hedging instrument and the hedged item by comparing changes in the carrying amount of the debt that is attributable
to a change in the spot rate with changes in the investment in the foreign operation due to movements in the spot rate (the offset method). The Group’s policy is to hedge the net investment only to the extent of the
debt principal.
During the year a profit of £0.3m was recognised on these hedging instruments within other comprehensive income. During the year there has been no hedge ineffectiveness recognised in profit or loss.
In managing interest rate and currency risks the Group aims to reduce the impact of short-term fluctuations on the Group’s earnings. Over the longer term, however, permanent changes in foreign exchange and interest
rates would have an impact on consolidated earnings. In the year ended 31 March 2024, it is estimated that a general increase of one percentage point in interest rates would have decreased the Group’s profit before tax
by approximately £0.3m (2023: £0.3m decrease).
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
142
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
27 Financial instruments
continued
d) Foreign currency risk
continued
Hedges of net investments in foreign operations continued
It is estimated that a general increase of 10% in the value of sterling against the above noted main currencies
would have decreased the Group’s profit before tax by approximately £0.8m for the year ended
31 March 2024 (2023: £0.8m decrease) which is detailed by currency in the following table:
2024
2023
£000
£000
US dollar
267
269
Euro
27
39
Czech koruna
88
88
Other
411
410
793
806
Capital risk management
The capital structure of the Group consists of net debt (comprising borrowings as detailed in note 20 offset
by cash and bank balances) and equity of the Group (comprising issued share capital, reserves and retained
earnings as detailed in the statement of changes in equity).
The Group’s objectives when managing capital are to safeguard the Group’s ability to continue as a going
concern in order to provide returns for shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders and to maintain
an appropriate capital structure. In order to maintain or adjust the capital structure, the Group will take
into account the amount of dividends paid to shareholders, the level of debt and the number of shares in
issue. Close control of deployment of capital is maintained by detailed management review procedures
for authorisation of significant capital commitments, such as land acquisition, capital targets for local
management and a system of internal interest charges, ensuring capital cost impact is understood and
considered by all management tiers.
Decisions regarding the balance of equity and borrowings, dividend policy and all major borrowing facilities
are reserved for the Board.
28 Cash generated from operations
2024
2023
£000
£000
Loss for the year
(3,299)
(3,957)
Adjustments for:
Pension scheme contributions net of costs settled by the Company
(2,972)
(3,287)
Pension scheme costs settled by the Scheme
151
559
Depreciation charge
7,769
7,815
2024
2023
£000
£000
Amortisation charge
163
211
Exceptional rationalisation costs
2,212
1,235
Exceptional refinancing costs
125
69
Exceptional costs arising from cancellation of future supply
agreement
1,034
751
Exceptional doubtful debt and related inventory provision
140
896
Exceptional settlement/costs in respect to legacy claims
(283)
302
Exceptional past service costs in respect of retirement benefits
1,020
Exceptional profit on disposal of surplus property
(769)
Profit on disposal of other plant and equipment
(17)
Loss on disposal of intangible non-current assets
14
Share-based payment charge/(credit)
43
(33)
Cash flow relating to onerous lease
(177)
Financial income
(424)
(218)
Financial expense
6,011
3,967
Taxation expense
(498)
1,437
Operating cash flow before changes in working capital
10,998
8,992
Changes in working capital
Decrease in inventories
3,427
1,539
Decrease in contract assets
3,985
2,388
Decrease/(increase) in trade and other receivables
2,128
(1,656)
Decrease in trade and other payables
(3,294)
(943)
Decrease in contract liabilities
(1,629)
(2,542)
Cash generated from operations
15,615
7,778
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
143
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
29 Financial commitments
2024
2023
£000
£000
The Directors have authorised the following future capital
expenditure which is contracted:
795
30 Related parties
Identity of related parties
The Group has a related party relationship with its subsidiaries (see note 31), its Directors and executive
officers and the Group pension scheme. There are no transactions that are required to be disclosed in
relation to the Group’s 64% dormant subsidiary Platform Diagnostics Limited.
On 21 August 2023, the Board announced, with immediate effect, the resignation of David Bedford as Chief
Financial Officer, Company Secretary and as a Director of the Company. On the same day, Eric Hutchinson,
formerly a Non-Executive Director, was appointed as Chief Financial Officer and Company Secretary with
immediate effect, thus becoming an Executive Director.
Also on 21 August 2023, Rachel Amey, a Non-Executive Director, was appointed as Chair of the Audit & Risk
Committee, interim Chair of the Remuneration Committee and interim Senior Independent Director with
immediate effect.
On 29 January 2024, the Board announced the appointment of Jonathan Templeman as a Non-Executive
Director of the Board with effect from 1 February 2024. He was a member of the Audit & Risk, Remuneration
and Nomination Committees and Senior Independent Director until 27 February 2024 following the
announcement of his resignation as a Non-Executive Director of the Company on 28 February 2024.
Rachel Amey was re-appointed as Senior Independent Director with immediate effect.
During the year to 31 March 2024, the Group paid £0.7m (2023: £0.7m) to Thingtrax, a company that offers
intelligent manufacturing infrastructure as a service, the cost has been recognised in the income statement.
Frank Doorenbosch, a Carclo plc Executive Director, is also a Non-Executive Director of Thingtrax and, as
such, the company is identified as a related party.
There have been no other changes to related parties in the year ended 31 March 2024.
Transactions with key management personnel
Key management personnel are considered to be the Executive Directors of the Group.
Details of Directors’ remuneration can be found in the Directors’ remuneration report on pages 57 to 76.
Group pension scheme
A third-party professional firm is engaged to administer the Group pension Scheme (the Carclo Group
Pension Scheme). The associated investment costs are borne by the Scheme in full. It has been agreed with
the trustees of the pension scheme that, under the terms of the recovery plan, the scheme would bear its
own administration costs.
Contributions agreed with the trustees of the Group pension scheme were £0.3m per month during the
year to 31 March 2024 to incorporate both deficit recovery contributions and scheme expenses including
PPF levy. The monthly cost will remain the same in the year to 31 March 2025 plus additional contributions of
26% of any surplus of FY25 underlying EBITDA over £18.0m agreed.
Carclo incurred administration costs of £0.9m during the period which has been charged to the
consolidated income statement, including £0.1m presented as exceptional costs (2023: £1.4m, of which
£0.2m were presented as exceptional costs). Costs of £nil were incurred to manage the plan’s assets
(2023: £nil recognised against the pension deficit). Of the administration costs, £0.7m are payable directly
by the scheme (2023: £0.8m). The total of deficit reduction contributions and administration costs paid by
the Group during the period was £3.5m (2023: £4.1m).
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
144
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
31 Group entities
The Group’s ultimate parent company is Carclo plc which is incorporated in England.
The ordinary share capital of the subsidiary undertakings is owned by the Company except where indicated.
Investments in subsidiaries
The Company and Group have the following investments in subsidiaries:
Registered
Principal place
Class of
2024
2023
Company
office address
of business
Status
shares held
%
%
Acre Mills (UK) Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Arthur Lee & Sons (Hot Rolling Mills) Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Australian Card Clothing Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Bruntons Aero Products Limited
1
UK
Active
Ordinary
100
100
Bruntons (Musselburgh) Limited
2
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Brymill Stockholders Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Carclo Diagnostic Solutions Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Carclo Group Services Limited
1
UK
Active
Ordinary
100
100
Carclo Holding Corporation
One Nexus Way, Camara Bay,
Cayman Islands
Active
Ordinary
100
100
Grand Cayman, KY1-9005
Carclo Holding Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Carclo Investments Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Carclo Overseas Holdings Limited
1
UK
Active
Ordinary
100
100
Carclo Technical Plastics Limited
1
UK
Active
Ordinary
100
100
Carclo Technical Plastics Private Co. Limited
27A (2) KIADB Industrial Area,
India
Active
Ordinary
100
100
Doddabalapur, Bangalore – 561203, Karnataka
Carclo Technical Plastics (Mitcham) Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Carclo Technical Plastics (Slough) Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Carclo Zephyr Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
CIT Technology Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Critchley, Sharp & Tetlow Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Crowther & Gee Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
CTP Davall Limited
2
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
1.
Registered office address is: 47 Wates Way, Mitcham, Surrey, CR4 4HR.
2. Registered office address is: C/O Bruntons Aero Products, Units 1-3, Block 1, Inveresk Industrial Estate, Musselburgh, East Lothian, EH21 7PA.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
145
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
31 Group entities
continued
Investments in subsidiaries
continued
Registered
Principal place
Class of
2024
2023
Company
office address
of business
Status
shares held
%
%
CTP Lichfield Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Carclo Platt Nederland BV
1
UK
Active
Ordinary
100
100
CTP Silleck Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
CTP Silleck Scotland Limited
2
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
CTP White Knight Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Dell Baler Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Edwin Stead & Sons Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Fairbank Brearley Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Finespark (Horsham) Limited
1
UK
Active
Ordinary
100
100
Highfield Mills Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Hills Diecasting Company Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Hills Non Ferrous Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Horsfall & Bickham Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Horsfall Card Clothing Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Ironfoil Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
John Sharp (Wire) Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
J.W.& H. Platt Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Lee of Sheffield Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Lee Stainless Steel Services Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Leeplas Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Metallic Card Clothing Company Limited (The)
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Norseman (Cables & Extrusions) Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Novoplex Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Pratt, Levick and Company Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
1.
Registered office address is: 47 Wates Way, Mitcham, Surrey, CR4 4HR.
2. Registered office address is: C/O Bruntons Aero Products, Units 1-3, Block 1, Inveresk Industrial Estate, Musselburgh, East Lothian, EH21 7PA.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
146
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
31 Group entities
continued
Investments in subsidiaries
continued
Registered
Principal place
Class of
2024
2023
Company
office address
of business
Status
shares held
%
%
Rumbold Securities Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Seymour Plastics Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Sheffield Wire Rope Company Limited (The)
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Shepley Investments Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Smith Wires Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Station Road (UK) Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Streamline Aerospace Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Texture Rolled Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Thomas White & Sons Limited
2
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Trubrite Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Tru-Grit Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Woodcock & Booth Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Woodhead Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Yorkshire Engineering Supplies Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
1.
Registered office address is: 47 Wates Way, Mitcham, Surrey, CR4 4HR.
2. Registered office address is: C/O Bruntons Aero Products, Units 1-3, Block 1, Inveresk Industrial Estate, Musselburgh, East Lothian, EH21 7PA.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
147
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
31 Group entities
continued
Investments in subsidiaries
continued
Registered
Principal place
Class of
2024
2023
Group
office address
of business
Status
shares held
%
%
Apollo Steels Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Carclo France SAS
40 bis Avenue d’Orleans, 28000, Chartres
France
Active
Ordinary
100
100
Carclo Securities Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Carclo Technical Plastics (Brno) s.r.o
Turanka 98, 627000, Brno
Czech Republic
Active
Ordinary
100
100
Carclo US Finance No. 2
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Carclo US Holdings Inc
600 Depot St. Latrobe, PA. 15650
USA
Active
Ordinary
100
100
Chapmans Springs Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
CTP Alan Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
CTP Carrera Inc
600 Depot St. Latrobe, PA. 15650
USA
Active
Ordinary
100
100
CTP Moulded Gears Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
CTP Precision Tooling Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
CTP Taicang Co., Ltd
No. 8 Xixin Road, Chengxiang Town, Taicang City,
China
Active
Ordinary
100
100
Jiangsu Province 215411
Datacall Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
D.B.T. (Motor Factors) Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Douglas Campbell Limited
2
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
European Card Clothing Company Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Electro-Medical Limited
1
UK
Dormant
A1 ordinary &
64
64
ordinary
Finemoulds Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Gilby-Brunton Limited
2
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Industates Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Jacottet Industrie SAS
40 bis Avenue d’Orleans, 28000, Chartres
France
Active
Ordinary
100
100
John Shaw Lifting & Testing Services Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Jonas Woodhead Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
1.
Registered office address is: 47 Wates Way, Mitcham, Surrey, CR4 4HR.
2. Registered office address is: C/O Bruntons Aero Products, Units 1-3, Block 1, Inveresk Industrial Estate, Musselburgh, East Lothian, EH21 7PA.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
148
continued
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
31 Group entities
continued
Investments in subsidiaries
continued
Registered
Principal place
Class of
2024
2023
Group
office address
of business
Status
shares held
%
%
Jonas Woodhead (Manchester) Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Jonas Woodhead (Ossett) Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Jonas Woodhead (Sheffield) Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Jonas Woodhead & Sons Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
K.A.S. Precision Engineering Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Platform Diagnostics Limited
1
UK
Dormant
A1 ordinary
64
64
Rumbold Investments Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Shepley Securities Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Sima Plastics Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Squires Steel Stockholders Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Sybro Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Toledo Woodhead Springs Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Tolwood Engineering Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Woodhead Components Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Woodhead Construction Services Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
Woodhead Steel Limited
1
UK
Dormant
Ordinary
100
100
1.
Registered office address is: 47 Wates Way, Mitcham, Surrey, CR4 4HR.
32 Post balance sheet events
Notice was given to the landlord on 12 April 2024 that the Company would exercise the break option to exit the leased buildings at Tucson, Arizona, USA on 1 October 2025 following the decision to close the facility at
Tucson. The reduction in the lease liability of £1.3m has been reflected in the balance sheet at 31 March 2024 as the Company is certain to exit on closure, see note 4.
On 5 July 2024, the Group’s lending bank extended the committed facilities to 31 December 2025.
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
149
Company balance sheet
as at 31 March 2024
2024
2023
Notes
£000
£000
£000
£000
Fixed assets
Property, plant and equipment
35
199
125
Intangible assets
36
89
65
Investments in subsidiary undertakings
37
77,517
83,517
Deferred tax assets
42
283
283
78,088
83,990
Current assets
Debtors – amounts falling due within one year
38
58,505
73,452
Debtors – amounts falling due after more than one year
38
214
220
Cash at bank and in hand
146
547
58,865
74,219
Creditors – amounts falling due within one year
Trade and other creditors
40
(116,336)
(115,636)
Provisions
39
(12)
(302)
(116,348)
(115,938)
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
150
continued
Company balance sheet
as at 31 March 2024
2024
2023
Notes
£000
£000
£000
£000
Net current liabilities
(57,483)
(41,719)
Total assets less current liabilities
20,605
42,271
Creditors – amounts falling due after more than one year
41
(29,732)
(37,905)
Net assets excluding pension liability
(9,127)
4,366
Pension liability
43
(37,186)
(34,493)
Net liabilities
(46,313)
(30,127)
Capital and reserves
Called-up share capital
25
3,671
3,671
Share premium account
7,359
7,359
Profit and loss account
(57,343)
(41,157)
Shareholders’ deficit
(46,313)
(30,127)
The Company reported a loss after tax for the year of £13.6m (2023: loss of £15.8m).
These accounts were approved by the Board of Directors on 26 July 2024 and were signed on its behalf by:
Frank Doorenbosch
Eric Hutchinson
Director
Director
Registered Number 00196249
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
151
Company statement of changes in equity
as at 31 March 2024
Share
Share
Profit and
Total
capital
premium
loss account
equity
£000
£000
£000
£000
Balance at 1 April 2022
3,671
7,359
(14,719)
(3,689)
Loss for the year
(15,828)
(15,828)
Other comprehensive expense
Remeasurement losses on defined benefit scheme
(10,577)
(10,577)
Taxation on items above
Total comprehensive expense for the year
(26,405)
(26,405)
Transactions with owners recorded directly in equity
Share-based payments
(33)
(33)
Taxation on items recorded directly in equity
Balance at 31 March 2023
3,671
7,359
(41,157)
(30,127)
Balance at 1 April 2023
3,671
7,359
(41,157)
(30,127)
Loss for the year
(13,561)
(13,561)
Other comprehensive expense
Remeasurement losses on defined benefit scheme
(2,668)
(2,668)
Taxation on items above
Total comprehensive expense for the year
(16,229)
(16,229)
Transactions with owners recorded directly in equity
Share-based payments
43
43
Balance at 31 March 2024
3,671
7,359
(57,343)
(46,313)
Notes to the Company financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
33 Basis of preparation for the Company
Going concern
The financial statements are prepared on the going concern basis.
On 5 July 2024, the Group’s lending bank extended the committed facilities to 31 December 2025.
Since the year end, the Company has commenced a process to refinance the existing term loans and
revolving credit facilities in order to provide the strategic funding for the next phase of the business
development. Other than mentioned, since the year end there have been no significant changes to the
Group’s liquidity position.
As part of the original bank financing in August 2020, the Group became subject to four bank facility
covenant tests. The quarterly covenants, and levels, to be tested are:
underlying interest cover (minimum 1.45 in March 2024, increasing to 2.60 by December 2025);
net debt to underlying EBITDA (2.75 maximum);
core subsidiary underlying EBITA (50% minimum); and
core subsidiary revenue (75% minimum).
Core subsidiaries are defined as Carclo Technical Plastics Ltd; Bruntons Aero Products Ltd; Carclo
Technical Plastics (Brno) s.r.o; CTP Carrera Inc and Jacottet Industrie SAS, with CTP Taicang Co. Ltd and
Carclo Technical Plastics Pvt Co Ltd being treated as non-core for the purposes of these covenants.
A schedule of contributions is also in place with the pension trustees with an agreed £3.5m to be paid
annually until 31 October 2039. Additional contributions also agreed are 26% of any FY25 surplus over
underlying EBITDA of £18.0m.
The Group is subject to a number of key risks and uncertainties, as detailed in the Principal risks and
uncertainties section on pages 37 to 42. Mitigation actions are also considered in this section. These risks
and uncertainties have been considered in the base case and severe downside sensitivities and have been
modelled accordingly.
The Directors have reviewed cash flow and covenant forecasts to cover the period of at least twelve months
from the date of signing these consolidated financial statements considering the Group’s available debt
facilities and the terms of the arrangements with the Group’s bank and the Group pension scheme.
The base case forecast includes assumptions around revenue, margins, working capital and interest rates.
The sensitivity analysis has considered the risks facing the Group and has modelled the impact of each in
turn, as well as considering the impact of aggregating certain risk types, and shows that the Group is able to
operate within its available facilities and meet its agreed covenants as they arise. Furthermore, the Directors
have reviewed sensitivity testing, modelling a range of severe downside scenarios. These sensitivities
attempt to incorporate identified risks set out in the Principal risks and uncertainties section of this report.
Severe downside sensitivities modelled included a range of scenarios modelling the financial effects of: loss
of business from discrete sites, an overall fall in gross margin of 1% across the Group, a fall in Group revenue
of 3% matched by a corresponding fall in cost of sales of the same amount, and interest rate risk. Under
these scenarios the Group would continue to meet minimum covenant requirements, although with minimal
headroom under these scenarios in the next twelve months. The downside testing did not allow for the
benefit of any action that could be taken by management to mitigate the impact of the scenarios. Using the
base case forecast the minimal underlying operating profit headroom, observed on the underlying interest
cover covenant, would be £0.8m. This suggests that a £16m drop in revenue or a 12% drop in underlying
operating profit would result in a breach of covenants.
The Group is not exposed to vulnerable sectors or vulnerable countries but is dependent on certain key
customers, which create risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties are documented, and the
mitigating actions being taken are covered in detail in the Principal risks and uncertainties section, on pages
37 to 42.
On the basis of this forecast and sensitivity testing, the Board has determined that it is reasonable to
assume that the Group will continue to operate within the facilities available and will be able to adhere to the
covenant tests to which it is subject throughout at least the twelve-month period from the date of signing
the financial statements.
Accordingly, these financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis.
Accounting policies for the Company
The following accounting policies have been applied consistently in dealing with items which are considered
material in relation to the financial statements.
These financial statements were prepared in accordance with Financial Reporting Standard 101 Reduced
Disclosure Framework (“FRS 101”). There are no amendments to accounting standards, or IFRIC
interpretations, that are effective for the year ended 31 March 2024 which have had a material impact
on the Company.
In preparing these financial statements, the Company applies the recognition, measurement and disclosure
requirements of UK-adopted international accounting standards, but makes amendments where necessary
in order to comply with the Companies Act 2006 and has set out below where advantage of the FRS 101
disclosure exemptions has been taken.
Under Section 408 of the Companies Act 2006 the Company is exempt from the requirement to present
its own profit and loss account.
In these financial statements, the Company has applied the exemptions available under FRS 101 in respect
of the following disclosures:
cash flow statement and related notes;
comparative period reconciliations for share capital, tangible and intangible fixed assets;
disclosures in respect of transactions with wholly owned subsidiaries;
disclosures in respect of capital management;
the effects of new but not yet effective IFRSs;
an additional balance sheet for the beginning of the earliest comparative period following the
reclassification of items in the financial statements;
disclosures in respect of the compensation of key management personnel; and
disclosures of transactions with a management entity that provides key management personnel services
to the Company.
152
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the Company financial statements
continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
33 Basis of preparation for the Company
continued
Accounting policies for the Company
continued
As the consolidated financial statements include the equivalent disclosures, the Company has also
taken the exemptions under FRS 101 available in respect of the following disclosures:
IFRS 2 Share-based Payments in respect of Group-settled share-based payments; and
certain disclosures required by IFRS 13 Fair Value Measurement and the disclosures required by
IFRS 7 Financial Instrument Disclosures.
The Company proposes to continue to adopt the reduced disclosure framework of FRS 101 in its next
financial statements.
The accounting policies set out below have, unless otherwise stated, been applied consistently to all
periods presented in these financial statements.
Judgements made by the Directors in the application of these accounting policies that have significant
effect on the financial statements, and estimates with a significant risk of material adjustment in the next
year, are discussed in note 48.
Certain new standards, amendments and interpretations to existing standards have been published that
are mandatory for the Company’s accounting period beginning on or after 1 April 2023. The following new
standards and amendments to standards are mandatory and have been adopted for the first time for the
financial year beginning 1 April 2023:
IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements and IFRS Practice Statement 2 Making Material Judgements
(Amendment): Disclosure of accounting policies (effective date 1 January 2023);
IAS 8 Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors (Amendment): Definition of
accounting estimates (effective date 1 January 2023); and
IAS 12 Income Taxes: Deferred tax related to assets and liabilities arising from a single transaction
(effective 1 January 2023).
These standards have not had a material impact on the Company’s financial statements.
a) Measurement convention
The financial statements are prepared on the historical cost basis except that the following assets and
liabilities are stated at their fair value: derivative financial instruments, financial instruments classified as
fair value through the profit or loss, liabilities for cash-settled share-based payments and defined benefit
pension plan assets.
b) Leases
At inception of a contract, the Company assesses whether a contract is, or contains, a lease. A contract is,
or contains, a lease if the contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of
time in exchange for consideration. To assess whether a contract conveys the right to control the use of an
identified asset, the Company uses the definition of a lease in IFRS 16.
As a lessee
At commencement or on modification of a contract that contains a lease component, the Company
allocates the consideration in the contract to each lease component on the basis of its relative standalone
prices. However, for the leases of property, the Company has elected not to separate non-lease
components and account for the lease and non-lease components as a single lease component.
The Company recognises a right-of-use asset and a lease liability at the lease commencement date.
The right-of-use asset is initially measured at cost, which comprises the initial amount of the lease liability
adjusted for any lease payments made at or before the commencement date, plus any initial direct costs
incurred and an estimate of costs to dismantle and remove the underlying asset or to restore the underlying
asset or the site on which it is located, less any lease incentives received.
The right-of-use asset is subsequently depreciated using the straight-line method from the
commencement date to the end of the lease term, unless the lease transfers ownership of the underlying
asset to the Company by the end of the lease term or the cost of the right-of-use asset reflects that
the Company will exercise a purchase option. In that case the right-of-use asset will be depreciated over
the useful life of the underlying asset, which is determined on the same basis as those of property and
equipment. In addition, the right-of-use asset is periodically reduced by impairment losses, if any, and
adjusted for certain remeasurements of the lease liability.
The lease liability is initially measured at the present value of the lease payments that are not paid at the
commencement date, discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease or, if that rate cannot be readily
determined, the Company’s incremental borrowing rate. Generally, the Company uses its incremental
borrowing rate as the discount rate.
The Company determines its incremental borrowing rate by obtaining interest rates from various external
financing sources and makes certain adjustments to reflect the terms of the lease and type of the asset
leased.
Lease payments included in the measurement of the lease liability comprise the following:
fixed payments, including in-substance fixed payments;
variable lease payments that depend on an index or a rate, initially measured using the index or rate as
at the commencement date;
amounts expected to be payable under a residual value guarantee; and
the exercise price under a purchase option that the Company is reasonably certain to exercise, lease
payments in an optional renewal period if the Company is reasonably certain to exercise an extension
option, and penalties for early termination of a lease unless the Company is reasonably certain not to
terminate early.
The lease liability is measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. It is remeasured when
there is a change in future lease payments arising from a change in an index or rate, if there is a change in
the Company’s estimate of the amount expected to be payable under a residual value guarantee, if the
Company changes its assessment of whether it will exercise a purchase, extension or termination option,
or if there is a revised in-substance fixed lease payment.
153
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the Company financial statements
continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
33 Basis of preparation for the Company
continued
Accounting policies for the Company
continued
b) Leases continued
As a lessee continued
When the lease liability is remeasured in this way, a corresponding adjustment is made to the carrying
amount of the right-of-use asset, or is recorded in profit or loss if the carrying amount of the right-of-use
asset has been reduced to zero.
The Company presents right-of-use assets that do not meet the definition of investment property in
“tangible fixed assets” and lease liabilities in “trade and other creditors – amounts falling due in less than
one year” and “creditors – amounts falling due after more than one year” in the balance sheet.
Short-term leases and leases of low-value assets
The Company has elected not to recognise right-of-use assets and lease liabilities for leases of low-value
assets and short-term leases, including IT equipment. The Company recognises the lease payments
associated with these leases as an expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
c) Investments
Fixed asset investments are stated at cost less provision for impairment where appropriate. The Directors
consider annually whether a provision against the value of investments on an individual basis is required.
Such provisions are charged in the profit and loss account in the year.
d) Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated
impairment losses.
Where parts of an item of property, plant and equipment have different useful lives, they are accounted
for as separate items of property, plant and equipment.
Depreciation is charged to the profit and loss account on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful
lives of each part of an item of tangible fixed assets. Land is not depreciated. The estimated useful lives
are between three and twelve years.
Depreciation methods, useful lives and residual values are reviewed at each balance sheet date.
e) Taxation
Tax on the profit or loss for the year comprises current and deferred tax. Tax is recognised in the profit
and loss account except to the extent that it relates to items recognised directly in equity or other
comprehensive income, in which case it is recognised directly in equity or other comprehensive income.
Current tax is the expected tax payable or receivable on the taxable income or loss for the year, using tax
rates enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date, and any adjustment to tax payable in
respect of previous years.
Deferred tax is provided on temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities
for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for taxation purposes. The following temporary
differences are not provided for: the initial recognition of goodwill; the initial recognition of assets or
liabilities that affect neither accounting nor taxable profit other than in a business combination; and
differences relating to investments in subsidiaries to the extent that they will probably not reverse in the
foreseeable future. The amount of deferred tax provided is based on the expected manner of realisation or
settlement of the carrying amount of assets and liabilities, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted
at the balance sheet date. A deferred tax asset is recognised only to the extent that it is probable that future
taxable profits will be available against which the temporary difference can be utilised.
f) Employee benefits
Defined contribution plans
A defined contribution plan is a post-employment benefit plan under which the Company pays fixed
contributions into a separate entity and will have no legal or constructive obligation to pay further amounts.
Obligations for contributions to defined contribution pension plans are recognised as an expense in the
profit and loss account in the periods during which services are rendered by employees.
Defined benefit plans
A defined benefit plan is a post-employment benefit plan other than a defined contribution plan. The
Company’s net obligation in respect of defined benefit pension plans is calculated by estimating the
amount of future benefit that employees have earned in return for their service in the current and prior
periods; that benefit is discounted to determine its present value, and the fair values of any plan assets
(at bid price) are deducted. The Company determines the net interest on the net defined benefit liability/
asset for the period by applying the discount rate used to measure the defined benefit obligation at the
beginning of the annual period to the net defined benefit liability/asset.
The discount rate is the yield at the reporting date on bonds that have a credit rating of at least AA that have
maturity dates approximating the terms of the Company’s obligations and that are denominated in the
currency in which the benefits are expected to be paid.
Remeasurements arising from defined benefit plans comprise actuarial gains and losses, the return on plan
assets (excluding interest) and the effect of the asset ceiling (if any, excluding interest). The Company
recognises them immediately in other comprehensive income and all other expenses related to defined
benefit plans in employee benefit expenses in profit or loss.
When the benefits of a plan are changed, or when a plan is curtailed, the portion of the changed benefit
related to past service by employees, or the gain or loss on curtailment, is recognised immediately in profit
or loss when the plan amendment or curtailment occurs.
154
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the Company financial statements
continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
33 Basis of preparation for the Company
continued
Accounting policies for the Company
continued
f) Employee benefits
continued
Defined benefit plans continued
The calculation of the defined benefit obligations is performed by a qualified actuary using the projected
unit credit method. When the calculation results in a benefit to the Company, the recognised asset is limited
to the present value of benefits available in the form of any future refunds from the plan or reductions in
future contributions and takes into account the adverse effect of any minimum funding requirements.
The liability in respect of the defined benefit plan is the fair value of the plan assets less the present value
of the defined benefit obligation at the balance sheet date, together with adjustments for actuarial gains
and losses. Actuarial gains and losses that arise are recognised in full with the movement recognised in the
statement of comprehensive income.
The Company is the principal sponsoring employer of a UK-group defined benefit pension plan. As there
is no contractual agreement or stated Group policy for charging the net defined benefit cost of the plan
to participating entities, the net defined benefit cost of the pension plan is recognised fully by the principal
sponsoring employer, which is the Company.
g) Foreign currency
Transactions in foreign currencies are recorded using the rate of exchange ruling at the date of the
transaction or, if hedged forward, at the rate of exchange under the related forward currency contract.
Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated using the contracted rate or
the rate of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date and the gains or losses on translation are included in
the profit and loss account.
h) Financial instruments
The Company uses derivative financial instruments to hedge its exposure to foreign exchange rate risks
arising from operational activities. In accordance with its treasury policy, the Company does not hold or
issue derivative financial instruments for trading purposes. However, derivatives that do not qualify for
hedge accounting are accounted for as trading instruments.
Derivative financial instruments are recognised initially at fair value. The gain or loss on remeasurement of
fair values is recognised immediately in the income statement. However, where derivatives qualify for hedge
accounting, recognition of any resultant gain or loss depends on the nature of the item being hedged. At
the year end no derivative financial instruments qualified for hedge accounting.
i) Share‑based payments
Share-based payment arrangements in which the Company receives goods or services as consideration
for its own equity instruments are accounted for as equity-settled share-based payment transactions,
regardless of how the equity instruments are obtained by the Company.
The grant date fair value of share-based payment awards granted to employees is recognised as an
employee expense, with a corresponding increase in equity, over the period in which the employees
become unconditionally entitled to the awards. The fair value of the awards granted is measured using
an option valuation model, taking into account the terms and conditions upon which the awards were
granted. The amount recognised as an expense is adjusted to reflect the actual number of awards for
which the related service and non-market vesting conditions are expected to be met, such that the amount
ultimately recognised as an expense is based on the number of awards that do meet the related service and
non-market performance conditions at the vesting date. For share-based payment awards with non-vesting
conditions, the grant date fair value of the share-based payment is measured to reflect such conditions and
there is no true-up for differences between expected and actual outcomes.
Share-based payment transactions in which the Company receives goods or services by incurring a
liability to transfer cash or other assets that is based on the price of the Company’s equity instruments
are accounted for as cash-settled share-based payments. The fair value of the amount payable to
employees is recognised as an expense, with a corresponding increase in liabilities, over the period in which
the employees become unconditionally entitled to payment. The liability is remeasured at each balance
sheet date and at settlement date. Any changes in the fair value of the liability are recognised as personnel
expense in profit or loss.
Further disclosure in relation to share-based payments is given in note 25 of the Group financial statements.
j) Dividends
Dividends are only recognised as a liability to the extent that they are declared prior to the year end.
Unpaid dividends that do not meet these criteria are disclosed in the note to the financial statements.
k) Provisions
A provision is recognised in the balance sheet when the Company has a present legal or constructive
obligation as a result of a past event, that can be reliably measured and it is probable that an outflow of
economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation. Provisions are determined by discounting the
expected future cash flows at a pre-tax rate that reflects risks specific to the liability to the extent that the
effect of discounting is material.
155
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the Company financial statements
continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
34 Personnel
The average number of employees in the year was 19 (2023: 20). All employees are based in the United Kingdom and are employed by the plc company.
35 Property, plant and equipment
Land and
buildings
£000
Plant and
equipment
£000
Total
£000
Cost
Balance at 31 March 2023
141
231
372
Additions
166
166
Balance at 31 March 2024
141
397
538
Depreciation and impairment losses
Balance at 31 March 2023
54
193
247
Depreciation charge
32
60
92
Balance at 31 March 2024
86
253
339
Carrying amounts
At 31 March 2023
87
38
125
At 31 March 2024
55
144
199
156
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the Company financial statements
continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
36 Intangible fixed assets
Computer software
£000
Cost
Balance at 31 March 2023
1,205
Additions
95
Balance at 31 March 2024
1,300
Amortisation and impairment losses
Balance at 31 March 2023
1,140
Amortisation charge
71
Balance at 31 March 2024
1,211
Carrying amounts
At 31 March 2023
65
At 31 March 2024
89
37 Investments in subsidiary undertakings
Shares in Group
undertakings
£000
Cost
Balance at 31 March 2023
150,117
Balance at 31 March 2024
150,117
Provisions
Balance at 31 March 2023
66,600
Impairment
6,000
Balance at 31 March 2024
72,600
Net book value
At 31 March 2023
83,517
At 31 March 2024
77,517
Value in use models are used to assess the recoverable amount of investments in the material
trading subsidiaries.
The value in use calculations use cash flow projections based upon financial budgets approved by
management covering a three-year period. Cash flows beyond the three-year period are extrapolated
using estimated growth rates of between 1.5% and 4.3% (2023: 2.0% and 4.1%) depending upon the market
served. The cash flows are discounted at a weighted average pre-tax rate of between 14.4% and 22.1%
(2023: 9.3% and 10.4%). The discount rates are calculated and reviewed annually and are based on the
Group’s weighted average cost of capital. Changes in income and expenditure are based on expectations
of future changes in the market.
The restructuring of a major customer of the CTP India entity, resulting in de-stocking and the development
of a new business plan, means that as at 31 March 2024, the investment value that the Company holds in the
CTP India entity exceeds the recoverable amount calculated; as such, an impairment of £6.0m has been
recognised. The key assumptions in this particular model were cash flow projections covering a three-year
period and discount rates. Cash flows beyond the three-year period are extrapolated using an estimated
growth rate of 4.3%. The cash flows were discounted at a pre-tax rate of 22.1%; discount rates are calculated
and reviewed annually and are based on the Company’s weighted average cost of capital. Changes in
income and expenditure are based on expectations of future changes in the market.
Sufficient headroom between recoverable amount and net book value of all other investments in subsidiary
undertakings was calculated and the Directors were comfortable that any reasonably possible changes to
key assumptions would not result in an impairment.
A list of subsidiary undertakings is given in note 31 to the Group financial statements.
38 Debtors
2024
£000
2023
£000
Debtors – amounts falling due within one year:
Amounts owed by Group undertakings
57,308
72,964
Other debtors
155
268
Prepayments and accrued income
1,042
220
58,505
73,452
Debtors – amounts falling due after more than one year:
Amounts owed by Group undertakings
214
220
Amounts owed by Group undertakings which fall due within one year are primarily non-interest bearing and
repayable on demand.
Amounts owed by Group undertakings are presented after provision for credit risk.
157
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the Company financial statements
continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
39 Provisions
2024
£000
2023
£000
Provisions at the start of the year
302
Provision established in the period
12
302
Provisions used in the period
(6)
Provision released in the period
(295)
Provisions at the end of the year
12
302
Current
12
302
Provision was made in the year to 31 March 2023 for legacy health-related claims which were classified as
exceptional in the income statement. The outcome was determined in the current period, resulting in the
release of the provision, less costs, back to exceptional items as a credit. During the year to 31 March 2024,
provision has been made for a new claim; external advice has been sought.
40 Trade and other creditors – amounts falling due within one year
2024
£000
2023
£000
Bank overdrafts
4,479
6,534
Trade creditors
574
395
Taxation and social security
64
80
Lease liabilities
88
33
Other creditors
11
16
Accruals and deferred income
1,255
1,143
Amounts owed to Group undertakings
107,557
106,169
Bank loans
2,299
1,223
Other loans
9
43
116,336
115,636
The UK Group companies are part of a multi-currency net overdraft facility with a £nil net limit and a £12.5m
gross limit. The overdrafts bear interest at between 2.0% and 4.5% above prevailing UK bank base rates.
At 31 March 2024, Carclo plc’s overdraft of £4.5m (2023: £6.5m) has been recognised within cash and cash
deposits when consolidated due to a right of set-off within the net overdraft facility.
Bank loans include £24.0m (2023: £32.5m) secured on the assets of the Group. The bank loan facilities are
secured by guarantees from certain Group companies and by fixed and floating charges over certain of the
assets of a number of the Group’s companies.
Additional security is granted by the Company to the bank such that at 31 March 2024, the gross value of
the Company’s assets secured amounted to £143.1m (2023: £158.1m).
Amounts owed to Group undertakings which fall due within one year are non-interest bearing and repayable
on demand.
41 Creditors – amounts falling due after more than one year
2024
£000
2023
£000
Bank loans
21,683
31,227
Other loans
53
9
Amounts owed to Group undertakings
7,904
6,607
Lease liabilities
92
62
29,732
37,905
Amounts owed to Group undertakings which fall due after more than one year bear interest at market
interest rates.
158
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the Company financial statements
continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
42 Deferred tax assets and liabilities
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are attributable to the following:
Assets
Liabilities
Net
2024
£000
2023
£000
2024
£000
2023
£000
2024
£000
2023
£000
Revaluation of property
283
283
283
283
Deferred tax assets
283
283
283
283
Deferred tax assets have not been recognised in respect of the following items:
2024
£000
2023
£000
Tax losses – trading
5,328
5,531
Tax losses – capital
52
52
Tax losses – non-trading
772
551
Short-term timing differences
460
Employee benefits
9,298
8,624
Tangible fixed assets
146
142
16,056
14,900
Deferred tax assets have not been recognised on the balance sheet to the extent that the underlying timing differences are not expected to reverse in the foreseeable future. The nature of the tax regimes in certain
regions in which Carclo operates are such that tax losses may arise even though the business is profitable. This situation is expected to continue in the medium term. Capital losses will be recognised at the point when a
transaction gives rise to an offsettable capital gain; this was not the case at 31 March 2024. Similarly, non-trading losses will only be utilised against future non-trading profits. No such non-trading profits are foreseen at
31 March 2024.
The tax losses at 31 March 2024 are available to carry forward without time restriction.
159
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the Company financial statements
continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
42 Deferred tax assets and liabilities
continued
Movement in deferred tax during the year:
Balance
as at
1 April 2023
£000
Recognised
in income
£000
Recognised
in equity
£000
Balance
as at
31 March 2024
£000
Revaluation of property
283
283
283
283
Movement in deferred tax during the prior year:
Balance
as at
1 April 2022
£000
Recognised
in income
£000
Recognised
in equity
£000
Balance
as at
31 March 2023
£000
Tax losses
669
(669)
Revaluation of property
283
283
952
(669)
283
43 Pension liability
The Group operates a defined benefit UK pension scheme which provides pensions based on service and final pay.
The Company was the sponsoring employer throughout the current and prior period and full disclosures in respect of the plan are given in note 22 of the Group financial statements. Additional security is granted by the
Company to the Scheme trustees such that, at 31 March 2024, the gross value of the Company’s assets secured amounted to £143.1m (2023: £158.1m).
44 Reserves
The Company maintains an employee share ownership plan for the benefit of employees and which can be used in conjunction with any of the Group’s share option schemes. As at 31 March 2024, the plan held 3,077
shares (2023: 3,077 shares). The original cost of these shares was £0.003m (2023: £0.003m). The cost of the shares was charged against the profit and loss account.
160
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the Company financial statements
continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
45 Contingent liabilities
The Company has entered into cross guarantee arrangements relating to the bank borrowings of its UK and
India subsidiary operations. The maximum obligation under these arrangements at 31 March 2024 was £nil
(2023: £nil).
46 Profit and loss account
The loss after tax for the year dealt with in the accounts of the Company amounts to £13.6m (2023: £15.8m
loss) which, after dividends of £nil (2023: £nil), gives a retained loss for the year of £13.6m (2023: £15.8m loss).
47 Related parties
The Company has a related party relationship with its subsidiaries (see note 31), its Directors and executive
officers and the Group pension scheme. There are no transactions that are required to be disclosed in
relation to the Group’s 64% dormant subsidiary Platform Diagnostics Limited.
Transactions with related parties are set out in note 30 of the Group financial statements.
In addition to this:
interest payable to Group companies during the period was £0.8m (2023: £0.5m) and interest
receivable from Group companies during the period was £nil (2023: £0.1m);
royalties receivable from Group companies during the period totalled £1.6m (2023: £1.8m);
management fee income receivable from Group companies during the period totalled £1.1m
(2023: £1.1m); and
dividends were received from Group companies during the period totalling £1.5m (2023: £0.8m).
Remuneration of the Directors, who are considered to be the key management personnel of the Company,
is disclosed in the audited part of the Directors’ remuneration report on pages 57 to 76.
48 Accounting estimates and judgements
The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with FRS 101 requires management to make
judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of policies and reported amounts of
assets and liabilities, income and expenses.
The estimates and assumptions are based on historical experience and various other factors that are
believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. These estimates and assumptions form the basis for
making judgements about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from
other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting
estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised if the revision affects only that
period, or in the period of revision and future periods if the revision affects both current and future periods.
The following are the critical judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty that the Directors have
made in the process of applying the Company’s accounting policies and that have the most significant
effect on the amounts recognised in the financial statements. These should be read in conjunction with the
significant accounting policies provided in the notes to the financial statements.
Going concern
Key judgements
Management has exercised judgement over the likelihood of the Company being able to continue to
operate within its available facilities and in accordance with its covenants for at least twelve months from
the date of signing these financial statements. Judgement has been applied over forecast profit and costs,
debt levels and interest rates, particularly base rates. This determines whether the Company should operate
the going concern basis of preparation for these financial statements.
161
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the Company financial statements
continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
48 Accounting estimates and judgements
continued
Pension assumptions
Note 22 contains information about management’s estimate of the net liability for defined benefit
obligations and their risk factors. The pension liability at 31 March 2024 amounts to £37.2m (2023: £34.5m).
Key sources of estimation uncertainty
The value of the defined benefit pension plan obligation is determined by long-term actuarial assumptions.
These assumptions include discount rates, inflation rates and mortality rates. Differences arising from actual
experience or future changes in assumptions will be reflected in the Group’s consolidated statement of
comprehensive income. The Group exercises judgement in determining the assumptions to be adopted
after discussion with a qualified actuary. Details of the key actuarial assumptions used and of the sensitivity
of these assumptions are included within note 22.
In the year to 31 March 2022 and the year to 31 March 2021, the Scheme introduced a right for members
to Pension Increase Exchange (“PIE”) and a Bridging Pension Option respectively. Having taken actuarial
advice, management exercised judgement that, for each, 40% of members would take the options at
retirement. There is no change to either assumption in the current year. Any change in estimate would
be recognised as remeasurement gains/(losses) through the consolidated statement of comprehensive
income.
Valuation of investments in subsidiary undertakings
Note 37 contains information about management’s estimates of the recoverable amount of investments in
subsidiary undertakings and their risk factors.
Key judgements
Management has exercised judgement over the underlying assumptions within the valuation models.
These are key factors in their assessment of whether there is any impairment in these investments.
As set out in more detail in note 37, the recoverable amounts are based on value in use and fair value less
costs of disposal calculations. The use of the value in use method requires the estimation of future cash
flows and the choice of discount rate to calculate the present value of the future cash flows. The use of
the fair value less costs to sell method requires the estimation of the fair value of the investment in the
subsidiary undertaking and of associated costs of disposal.
Recognition of deferred tax assets
Note 42 contains information about the deferred tax assets recognised in the statement of financial
position.
Key judgements
Management has exercised judgement over the level of future taxable profits against which to relieve
the Company’s deferred tax assets. On the basis of this judgement, £nil deferred tax assets have been
recognised for tax losses at the period end (2023: £nil).
Classification and recoverability of amounts due from Group undertakings
Note 40 presents amounts due from Group undertakings falling due within one year and after more than
one year.
Key judgements
Management has applied judgement when classifying amounts due from Group undertakings. Those
presented as falling due within one year are primarily non-interest bearing and are repayable on demand.
Receivable balances with other Group entities are reviewed for potential impairment based on the ability of
the counterparty to meet its obligations. No impairment losses were recognised in the year.
162
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Information for shareholders
(a) Reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures
Continuing operations:
Notes
2024
£000
2023
£000
Statutory loss after tax
(3,299)
(3,957)
(Less)/add back: Income tax (credit)/expense
10
(498)
1,437
Loss before tax
(3,797)
(2,520)
Add back: Net financing charge
9
5,587
3,749
Operating profit
1,790
1,229
Add back: Exceptional items
8
4,857
4,710
Underlying operating profit
6,647
5,939
Add back: Amortisation of intangible assets
13
163
211
Underlying earnings before interest, tax and amortisation (“EBITA”)
6,810
6,150
Add back: Depreciation of property, plant and equipment
14
7,769
7,815
Underlying earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation ("EBITDA")
14,579
13,965
Loss before tax
(3,797)
(2,520)
Add back: Exceptional items
8
4,857
4,710
Underlying profit before tax
1,060
2,190
Income tax (credit)/expense
10
(498)
1,437
Add back: Exceptional tax credit
743
491
Group underlying tax expense
245
1,928
Group statutory effective tax rate
13.1%
(57.0)%
Group underlying effective tax rate
23.1%
88.0%
163
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Information for shareholders
continued
Continuing operations:
Notes
2024
£000
2023
£000
Cash at bank and in hand
18
5,974
10,354
Loans and borrowings – current
20
(6,753)
(5,046)
Loans and borrowings – non-current
20
(28,678)
(39,668)
Net debt
(29,457)
(34,360)
Add back: Lease liabilities
20
11,167
11,870
Net debt excluding lease liabilities
(18,290)
(22,490)
A reconciliation between the Group’s loss to underlying profit used in the numerator to calculate underlying earnings per share can be found in note 11 and in the five-year summary.
(b) Share price information
Share price information can be found on the internet at
www.carclo-plc.com
(c) Further information on Carclo plc
Further information on Carclo plc can be found on the internet at
www.carclo-plc.com
(a) Reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures
continued
164
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
2024
£000
2023
£000
2022
£000
2021
£000
2020
£000
Group total:
Revenue
132,672
143,445
128,576
107,564
146,288
Underlying operating profit
1
6,647
5,939
6,096
4,840
4,365
COVID-19-related US government grant income
2,087
Operating profit before exceptional items
6,647
5,939
8,183
4,840
4,365
Exceptional items
(4,857)
(4,710)
721
4,438
(8,779)
Operating profit/(loss)
1,790
1,229
8,904
9,278
(4,414)
Net financing charge
(5,587)
(3,749)
(2,989)
(2,659)
(2,585)
(Loss)/profit before tax
(3,797)
(2,520)
5,915
6,619
(6,999)
Income tax credit/(expense)
498
(1,437)
(809)
(457)
(1,449)
(Loss)/profit after tax but before loss on disposal of discontinued operations
(3,299)
(3,957)
5,106
6,162
(8,448)
Underlying operating profit
1
6,647
5,939
6,096
4,840
4,365
Add back: Amortisation of intangible assets
163
211
203
206
172
Underlying earnings before interest, tax and amortisation (“EBITA”)
1
6,810
6,150
6,299
5,046
4,537
Add back: Depreciation of property, plant and equipment
7,769
7,815
6,825
5,774
6,765
Underlying earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (“EBITDA”)
1
14,579
13,965
13,124
10,820
11,302
Continuing operations:
Revenue
132,672
143,445
128,576
107,564
110,506
Underlying operating profit
1
6,647
5,939
6,096
4,840
7,313
COVID-19-related US government grant income
2,087
Operating profit before exceptional items
6,647
5,939
8,183
4,840
7,313
Exceptional items
(4,857)
(4,710)
721
4,490
(5,470)
Operating profit
1,790
1,229
8,904
9,330
1,843
Net financing charge
(5,587)
(3,749)
(2,989)
(2,659)
(2,388)
(Loss)/profit before tax
(3,797)
(2,520)
5,915
6,671
(545)
Five year summary
1.
See the glossary on page 167.
165
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
2024
£000
2023
£000
2022
£000
2021
£000
2020
£000
Underlying operating profit from continuing operations
1
6,647
5,939
6,096
4,840
7,313
Add back: Amortisation of intangible assets from continuing operations
163
211
203
206
172
Underlying earnings before interest, tax and amortisation
(“EBITA”) from continuing operations
1
6,810
6,150
6,299
5,046
7,485
Add back: Depreciation of property, plant and equipment
from continuing operations
7,769
7,815
6,825
5,774
5,951
Underlying earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and
amortisation (“EBITDA”) from continuing operations
1
14,579
13,965
13,124
10,820
13,436
2024
£000
2023
£000
2022
£000
2021
£000
2020
£000
Return on revenue (underlying operating profit margin)
1
5.0%
4.1%
4.7%
4.5%
3.0%
Return on revenue (underlying operating profit margin) from continuing operations
1
5.0%
4.1%
4.7%
4.5%
6.6%
Return on revenue (underlying EBITA margin)
5.1%
4.3%
4.9%
4.7%
3.1%
Return on revenue (underlying EBITA margin) from continuing operations
5.1%
4.3%
4.9%
4.7%
6.8%
Effective tax rate
13.1%
(57.0)%
12.2%
5.8%
(14.6)%
Underlying effective tax rate
1
23.1%
88.0%
26.0%
21.0%
27.8%
(Loss)/earnings per share
2
(4.5)p
(5.4)p
7.9p
10.1p
(15.5)p
Underlying earnings per share
3
1.1p
0.4p
3.1p
2.4p
0.4p
Net debt
(29,457)
(34,360)
(32,405)
(27,596)
(27,357)
Capital employed (equity + net debt)
33,117
45,966
56,821
35,507
36,088
Average capital employed (equity + net debt)
39,542
51,394
46,164
35,798
43,418
Return on capital employed
4
13.1%
9.7%
9.6%
8.8%
13.1%
Capital expenditure as a multiple of depreciation
1.0x
0.7x
1.4x
1.8x
1.5x
Average number of employees in year
1,059
1,116
1,062
1,048
1,475
1.
Underlying is defined in the glossary on page 167.
2. (Loss)/earnings per share is calculated based on profit after tax, attributable to equity holders of the parent company, including discontinued operations and is after exceptional and separately disclosed items.
3. Underlying earnings per share is calculated based on profit after tax, attributable to equity holders of the parent company, including discontinued operations and is before exceptional and separately disclosed items.
4. Underlying operating profit for the Group as a percentage of assets employed, defined as working capital plus tangible assets.
Five year summary
continued
166
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Cash conversion rate
Cash generated from operations divided by EBITDA
as defined below
Compound annual growth rate
(“CAGR”)
The geometric progression ratio that provides a
constant rate of return over a time period
Constant currency
Prior year translated at the current year’s average
exchange rate. Included to explain the effect of
changing exchange rates during volatile times to
assist the reader’s understanding
EBIT
Profit before interest and tax
EBITDA
Profit before interest, tax, depreciation and
amortisation
Fixed asset utilisation ratio
Revenue from continuing operations divided by
tangible fixed assets
Group capital expenditure
Non-current asset additions
Net bank interest
Interest receivable on cash at bank less interest
payable on bank loans and overdrafts. Reported in
this manner due to the global nature of the Group
and its banking agreements
Net cash flow
Cash generated from operations, add back pension
contributions net of pension administration costs
and cash from exceptional items, less total capex
and net interest paid
Net debt
Cash and cash deposits less loans and borrowings.
Used to report the overall financial debt of the
Group in a manner that is easy to understand
Net debt excluding lease liabilities
Net debt, as defined above, excluding lease
liabilities. Used to report the overall non-leasing
debt of the Group in a manner that is easy to
understand
Net debt to underlying EBITDA ratio
Ratio of net debt as defined above to underlying
EBITDA as defined left
Operational gearing
Ratio of fixed overheads to revenue
Return on capital employed
(“ROCE”)
Underlying operating profit for the Group as a
percentage of assets employed, defined as working
capital plus tangible assets
Return on sales
Underlying operating profit, as defined right, from
continuing operations, as a percentage of revenue
from continuing operations
Underlying
Adjusted to exclude all exceptional items
Underlying EBIT
Profit before interest and tax, adjusted to exclude
all exceptional items
Underlying EBITDA
Profit before interest, tax, depreciation
and amortisation adjusted to exclude all
exceptional items
Underlying earnings per share
Earnings per share adjusted to exclude all
exceptional items
Underlying operating profit
Operating profit adjusted to exclude all
exceptional items
Underlying profit before tax
Profit before tax adjusted to exclude all
exceptional items
Glossary
167
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
For all enquiries please contact Equiniti, our Share Registrars, who are available to answer any queries you
have in relation to your shareholding.
Online:
A range of help is available online at
help.shareview.co.uk
– from here you will be able to securely
email Equiniti.
By phone:
From the UK, call 0371 384 2249.
From overseas, call +44 (0) 371 384 2249. Lines are open between 8.30am and 5.30pm, Monday to Friday
(excluding public holidays in England and Wales).
By post:
Equiniti, Aspect House, Spencer Road, Lancing, West Sussex BN99 6DA.
Equiniti also provide an online service for shareholders. To manage your shareholding online please see
Equiniti’s Shareview service at
www.shareview.co.uk
.
If you are not already registered, to view your shareholding you will need to set up a portfolio by registering
at
www.shareview.co.uk
. You will need your shareholder reference number. Setting up a portfolio will
allow you to securely access your holdings online at your own convenience whenever and wherever you
want to. You will have access to a full range of online services. These can include:
view holdings and indicative price and valuation;
view movements on your holdings;
view dividend payment history;
register and change bank mandate instructions;
change your address details;
sign up for electronic communications;
buy and sell shares online; and
download and print shareholder forms.
Company and shareholder information
Company Secretary
Eric Hutchinson
Registered number
Registered in England 00196249
Registered office
47 Wates Way
Mitcham
Surrey
CR4 4HR
Telephone: +44 (0) 20 8685 0500
Email: company.secretary@carclo-plc.com
Company website
www.carclo-plc.com
Registrars
Equiniti
Aspect House
Spencer Road
Lancing
West Sussex
BN99 6DA
Auditor
Forvis Mazars LLP
30 Old Bailey
London
EC4M 7AU
Solicitors
Addleshaw Goddard LLP
3 Sovereign Square
Sovereign Street
Leeds
LS1 4ER
Bankers
HSBC UK Bank plc
1 Centenary Square
Birmingham
B1 1HQ
Corporate brokers
Panmure Liberum
25 Ropemaker Street
London
EC2Y 9LY
Financial calendar
Annual General Meeting
5 September 2024
Interim results for half year ending 30 September 2024
November 2024
Preliminary results for year ending 31 March 2025
June/July 2025
Annual report for year ending 31 March 2025
mailed July 2025
Annual General Meeting
August/September 2025
168
Carclo plc
Annual report and accounts FY24
Strategic report
Corporate governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Designed and produced by
www.lyonsbennett.com
This report has been printed on Image Indigo,
an FSC® certified material. This document
was printed by Pureprint Group using its
environmental print technology, with 100%
of dry waste diverted from landfill, minimising
the impact of printing on the environment.
The printer is a CarbonNeutral® company.
Both the printer and the paper mill are
registered to ISO 14001.
Registered office:
47 Wates Way
Mitcham
Surrey
CR4 4HR
T: +44 (0) 20 8685 0500
www.carclo-plc.com
investor.relations@carclo-plc.com
company.secretary@carclo-plc.com