REG - Fuller,Smith &Turner - Half Year Results
Wed 07:00
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RNS Number : 1441H Fuller,Smith&Turner PLC 12 November 2025
FULLER, SMITH & TURNER P.L.C.
("Fuller's", the "Company", or the "Group")
Financial results for the 26 weeks to 27 September 2025
A strong first half with continuing momentum
Financial Highlights:
Unaudited Unaudited Audited
26 weeks 26 weeks ended 52 weeks ended
ended 28 September 29 March
27 September
2025 2024 2025
£m £m £m
Revenue and other income 207.5 194.1 376.3
Adjusted EBITDA(1) 42.4 37.6 67.6
Adjusted profit before tax(2) 22.5 17.6 27.0
Statutory profit before tax 21.1 29.0 33.8
Basic earnings per share(3) 27.84p 37.44p 47.49p
Adjusted earnings per share(3) 30.03p 21.81p 34.22p
Dividend per share 7.85p 7.41p 19.76p
Net debt excluding lease liabilities(4) 138.3 128.2 142.2
1 Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortisation, profit on
disposal of property, plant and equipment, and separately disclosed items.
2 Adjusted profit before tax is the profit before tax excluding
separately disclosed items.
3 Per 40p 'A' or 'C' ordinary share. Basic EPS is calculated using
earnings attributable to equity shareholders after tax including separately
disclosed items. Adjusted EPS excludes separately disclosed items.
4 Net debt excluding lease liabilities comprises cash and short-term
deposits, bank overdraft, bank loans, debenture stock and preference shares.
· Like for like sales for our Managed Pubs & Hotels in H1 up 4.6%,
maintaining continued market outperformance
· Adjusted profit before tax increased by 28% to £22.5 million (H1
2025: £17.6 million)
· Statutory profit before tax of £21.1 million (H1 2025: £29.0
million) - prior period reflects book profit of £17.2 million arising from
the disposal of The Mad Hatter hotel
· Exceptional financial performance with adjusted earnings per share up
by 38%
· Net debt of £138.3 million (H1 2025: £128.2 million) with cash
generated from the business invested in enhancing the existing estate and
financing shareholder returns
· Interim dividend increased by 6% to 7.85p (H1 2025: 7.41p)
· Continuing share buyback programme, with 1.2 million 'A' shares
repurchased in the period.
Strategic Highlights
· Industry leading sales growth underpinned by our premium and
resilient customer base
o Drink like for like sales increased by 6.5%
o Food like for like sales increased by 2.0%
o Accommodation like for like sales increased by 3.3%
· Successful evolution of senior team with new roles of Executive
Chairman and Chief Operating Officer
· Enhanced our iconic freehold estate with investment of £13.5 million
· Returns to shareholders of £13.8 million through dividend and share
buybacks
· Balance Sheet continues to strengthen - well placed for appropriate
acquisition opportunities.
Current Trading
· Like for like sales for first 32 weeks of the year to 8 November 2025
up 4.6%
· Christmas bookings 16% ahead of the comparable period last year
· Planned capex of £15 million earmarked for the second half
· Business is in excellent shape and primed for future long-term
growth.
Executive Chairman Simon Emeny said:
"In my first report as Executive Chairman, I am delighted to be delivering
such a great set of results. The business has performed exceptionally well,
outperforming the market and delivering like for like sales growth of 4.6%, a
28% increase in adjusted profit before tax to £22.5 million and a significant
rise in adjusted earnings per share of 38% to 30.03p. This has been achieved
through a combination of factors - a clear long-term strategy, our
well-invested, predominately freehold, property portfolio, a premium and
resilient customer base, and a team of amazing people throughout the
organisation who strive every day to support, promote and deliver brilliant
food, drink, accommodation and an outstanding customer experience.
"Our positive momentum has continued into the second half with like for like
sales in our Managed Pubs and Hotels for the 32 weeks to 8 November rising by
4.6%. We are heading towards the peak Christmas season and we have a healthy
pipeline of Christmas bookings, which is currently 16% ahead of the same time
last year.
"On 26 November 2025, the Government will announce its Budget for the coming
year. I hope the Chancellor has heeded the arguments and proposals articulated
by the hospitality sector to avoid further punitive financial measures but,
more so, I am frustrated by the lack of a clear plan to deliver the growth the
Chancellor claims to be seeking. The country needs ambitious and innovative
ways to drive sustainable economic success. It needs new ideas, new thinking -
and I genuinely hope the Government succeeds in that and succeeds quickly.
"We look forward to continuing to develop the business and drive returns for
our shareholders. Our consistent long-term strategy provides a clear focus and
vision, our Balance Sheet is in excellent shape and supports our ambition to
grow, and we face the future with optimism, excitement and confidence."
-Ends-
For further information, please contact:
Fuller, Smith & Turner P.L.C.
Simon Emeny, Executive Chairman 020 8996 2000
Neil Smith, Finance Director 020 8996 2000
Georgina Wald, Corporate Comms Manager 020 8996 2198
Instinctif Partners
Justine Warren 020 7802 2617
Forthcoming dates in the financial calendar:
Interim dividend payment: 2 January 2026
Trading update: 15 January 2026
Full year results announcement FY 2026: 10 June 2026
AGM: 21 July 2026
Half year results announcement H1 2027: 11 November 2026
Notes to Editors:
Fuller, Smith & Turner is a premium pubs and hotels business. With an
outstanding estate of iconic pubs and hotels across the southern half of
England, our purpose is to create experiences that nourish the soul. At our
heart is the warm and inviting welcome of a fantastic pub or hotel, delivered
by an exceptional team of over 5,000 talented individuals. We have been
delighting our customers - with delicious, fresh, seasonal food, an exciting
drinks range, and beautiful bedrooms - for 180 years. Fuller's has 185 Managed
Pubs and Hotels, with 1,028 bedrooms and 151 Tenanted Inns, all aiming to
ensure that everyone leaves that little bit happier than they arrived.
Photography is available from the Fuller's Press Office on 020 8996 2000 or by
email at pr@fullers.co.uk (mailto:pr@fullers.co.uk) .
This statement will be available on the Company's website, www.fullers.co.uk
(http://www.fullers.co.uk) . An accompanying presentation will be available
from 12 noon on 12 November 2025.
EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN'S REVIEW
In my first report as Executive Chairman, I am delighted to be delivering such
a great set of results. The business has performed exceptionally well,
outperforming the market and delivering like for like sales growth of 4.6%, a
28% increase in adjusted profit before tax to £22.5 million, and a
significant rise in adjusted earnings per share of 38% to 30.03p. This has
been achieved through a combination of factors - a clear long-term strategy,
our well-invested, predominately freehold property portfolio, a premium and
resilient customer base, and a team of amazing people throughout the
organisation who strive every day to support, promote and deliver brilliant
food, drink, accommodation and an outstanding customer experience.
While our financial success is clearly pleasing, improvements in our customer
Net Promoter Score (NPS), increased team retention and strong employee
engagement scores all support the fact that this success is sustainable. The
rise in sales is due to a commitment to growth - attracting more customers,
increasing spend per head and delivering it in the right way for our teams and
our guests - with amazing service and genuine passion.
I am honoured to work with such a great team of people, and I would like to
personally thank them for all their hard work. Fuller's success is their
success. They are a credit to the Company and across the business - front of
house, in our kitchens, back of house, in the supporting functions at Pier
House - they show a dedication and commitment that helps us to deliver for our
customers and our stakeholders.
As we head towards the busy Christmas period, we have a strong pipeline of
bookings - currently 16% ahead of the same time last year - and an
enthusiastic, well-prepared team set to deliver exceptional customer service.
On 26 November 2025, the Government will announce its Budget for the coming
year. I hope the Chancellor has heeded the arguments and proposals articulated
by the hospitality sector to avoid further punitive financial measures but,
more so, I am frustrated by the lack of a clear plan to deliver the growth the
Chancellor claims to be seeking. The country needs ambitious and innovative
ways to drive sustainable economic success. It needs new ideas, new thinking -
and I genuinely hope the Government succeeds in that and succeeds quickly.
Our financial success is underpinned by our commitment to a robust capital
allocation framework. I am delighted that, in the first half of the year, we
returned £13.8 million to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks,
on the back of £34.6 million returned in the prior financial year. We have
now bought back over eight million 'A' shares since September 2022 at an
average price of £6.05, with the programme continuing.
DIVIDEND
The Board is pleased to announce an interim dividend of 7.85p (H1 2025: 7.41p)
per 40p 'A' and 'C' ordinary share and 0.785p (H1 2025: 0.741p) per 4p 'B'
ordinary share. This will be paid on 2 January 2026 to shareholders on the
share register as at 12 December 2025.
TRADING UPDATE
It is our ability to stand out from the crowd that makes Fuller's successful.
From our commitment to constantly investing in our iconic estate, creating
beautiful bedrooms and interesting spaces for our customers, to our tailored
offer - created, promoted and delivered in a manner that appeals to the key
affluent customer groups in each individual site - we successfully strive to
set ourselves apart from the competition.
Premium, affluent and resilient customers
Our long-term strategy has delivered great results in the period - with
increases across the board. Like for like drinks sales rose 6.5%, like for
like food sales rose 2.0% and like for like accommodation sales rose by 3.3%.
This growth is driven by delivering a first-class, premium offer to
economically resilient customers.
By having a detailed understanding of our customers, we can ensure the offer
in each site is the right one for that location - and this drives our sales
performance. Identifying the sites with the most customer similarities allows
us to test, learn and refine the offer to ensure we are meeting the needs of
the customer and growing sales. Combined with an engaged database, of which
two million can be contacted directly by SMS or email, we can expertly target
specific customer groups with the right message in the right style, at the
right time.
Pre-booked sales have been a key focus for the Company in recent years and
during the period, our Sales and Events Team has driven prebooked sales up by
4.8% to account for 33% of Managed Pubs & Hotels revenue - equating to
£60.9 million. This focus has helped build our corporate business and
improved access to the lucrative wedding market. Weddings are an important
opportunity for both hotels and iconic locations, and in the first half alone,
we have hosted 510 happy couples on their special day.
Having such a strong key customer base is so important with the high level of
economic pressure on consumers. We over-index against the market in our key
demographic groups and this year has seen disposable income grow in those
groups, further demonstrating their financial resilience.
Well-invested, iconic properties in great locations
During the first half of the year, we invested a total of £13.5 million in
our estate.
Projects completed in the period include a £4 million transformation of The
Chamberlain Hotel on Minories, a £1.8 million investment to elevate The
Hampshire Hog at Clanfield, a fantastic site on the edge of the South Downs,
and a £1 million scheme at Bel & The Dragon in Odiham, Hampshire, where
we have upgraded all the bedrooms.
Investing in our bedroom stock - which has been a consistent focus over the
last few years - continues to deliver results with occupancy rates of 81% (H1
2025: 82%) and average room rates of £143.10 - an increase of 3.8% (H1 2025:
£137.90). Combined, these factors have led to revenue per available room
rising £3.63 to £115.76 - the highest in the pub sector. In our Cotswolds
sites, this rises to an average room rate of £165.96, which is 3.1% up on the
prior year.
As well as investing in our hotels, we also completed a £1 million investment
at The Parcel Yard - an iconic pub at Kings Cross station. This has added a
new level of opulence, evoking the spirit of traditional European station
restaurants and it has proved very popular with both new and existing
customers at this busy and well-known location.
In the remainder of the current financial year we expect to spend around a
further £15 million on investments, including 14 transformational schemes,
with a targeted return of 20% on any trade enhancing investment. This will set
us up well for continued momentum and success in FY2027.
Inspiring our People
Our people make the real difference - their commitment to our customers'
enjoyment and desire to deliver experiences that nourish the soul is reflected
in our rising NPS scores. We have seen an increase across all areas and our
current overall NPS score stands at 70.5.
We have achieved this with a dedication to recruiting, developing and
retaining the best people. Our retention rates have been growing year-on-year
and our current average tenure is 11 years for a General Manager and just over
six years for a Head Chef.
Supporting this recruitment is a commitment to training and development,
including our excellent Lead Your Way programme. Lead your Way is aimed at all
our senior managers - from General Managers in our pubs and hotels, through to
our support centre senior managers and including our Head Chefs. Across the
estate, the course has now been completed, or is underway, by 88% of our
General Managers, 72% of our Head Chefs, and 68% of our support centre senior
managers.
Finally, we were delighted during the first half to complete work on the
Fuller's Kitchen Academy in Reading. This amazing facility is now fully open
following a £0.5 million investment and gives us the bespoke space we need to
inspire and develop our chefs and, therefore, our food offer. From delivering
the classics with brilliance and elegance, to inspiring new, exciting seasonal
dishes, this wonderful space is a home from which our Fuller's Chefs' Guild
will inspire the next generation of amazing Head Chefs.
Life is too good to waste
Underpinning everything we do is our commitment to delivering our Life is too
good to waste programme. We have added a further eight electric kitchens
across the estate in the first half of the year, have a further 12 planned for
the second half, and we are on target to hit our Scope 1 & 2 Net Zero
target by 2030. We are already recycling 66% of our waste - with a target of
70% - and with all remaining waste going to an "energy from waste" facility,
we no longer send anything to landfill.
Sustainability is a central pillar of our procurement process and one of the
changes we have made during the period is the appointment of illy as our new
coffee supplier across the estate. As a certified B Corp company, illy focuses
on responsible sourcing, regenerative farming practices, recyclable packaging,
renewable energy and community enrichment. It is another step to ensure we hit
our Scope 3 Net Zero target by 2040.
TENANTED INNS
Our Tenanted business continues to be a strong cash contributor with low
investment needs and good returns. During the period it has delivered EBITDA
margins of 53.3% and average EBITDA per pub of £127k per annum - a rise of
7.1%.
Maintaining both Tenanted and Managed operating models continues to deliver
flexibility within our portfolio framework for pubs to sit within the
operating model that delivers the best returns for the Company. The strong
financials and good geography of our Tenanted Inns attract economically
resilient Tenants, and we have a great support centre team, with a real depth
of knowledge and experience, to help both parties maximise the opportunities
available.
During the period, we have launched an improved marketing hub, with better
access to social media assets and completed new websites for 110 of our
Tenants.
FINANCIAL REVIEW
In the first half of the year we have delivered strong growth in both revenue
and profit, with adjusted profit before tax growing by 28% to £22.5 million
(H1 2025: £17.6 million) and revenue growing by 7% to £207.5m (H1 2025:
£194.1m). The improvement in profitability has meant that net debt to EBITDA
has decreased to 2.18 times leaving our Balance Sheet in a strong position to
take advantage of opportunities to grow the business through acquisition, when
the right acquisition targets arise.
The increased profits and the continued share buyback programme have delivered
a particularly significant increase in adjusted earnings per share, up 38%.
This demonstrates real momentum in the business as the performance follows a
similarly strong prior period when adjusted earnings per share grew by 27%.
In the first half of the year we continued to deliver on our capital
allocation framework through investment in the estate and returns to
shareholders while reducing net debt and leverage. In the first half, we paid
a dividend of £6.7 million to shareholders and £7.1 million was deployed as
part of our ongoing share buyback programme. This amounts to a total return to
shareholders of £13.8 million in the period.
We have invested a total of £13.5 million in our property portfolio, with a
further £15 million of investment planned in the second half of the year.
During the period we have completed major investments in our bedrooms, with
significant schemes at The Hampshire Hog in Clanfield, Bel & The Dragon,
Odiham, and The Chamberlain in the City.
Managed Pubs and Hotels like for like sales increased by 4.6% on the prior
period, outperforming the market. Total revenue in the Managed Pubs and Hotels
division increased by 8% on the prior period. This total growth is assisted by
the acquisition of the Lovely Pubs business and The White Swan, Twickenham
during the prior period. All categories of revenue showed like for like growth
against the prior period, with drink sales up by 6.5%, food sales up by 2.0%
and accommodation sales up by 3.3%. The improvement in revenue was delivered
through pricing, mix and volume growth.
As well as growing revenue, we have also improved our operating margins within
the Managed Pubs and Hotels division growing from 15.7% to 17.1%. The
improvement in margin has been achieved in multiple areas. We invested in our
procurement team which has driven improvements in our gross profit margin. We
have transitioned to Coca-Cola in the period, introduced a new premium spirits
range and moved coffee suppliers to illy. These changes have enhanced the
customer offer and helped to protect our margins from the cost of Extended
Producer Responsibility (EPR) and inflation. Our strong relationship with
Asahi also remains important in mitigating some of the increased input costs,
with the current partnership in place to 2029.
Labour costs remain challenging. Our business had a further £8 million of
annualised costs imposed upon on it, with effect from April 2025, due to
increases in National Living Wage and National Insurance. We have managed to
mitigate some of these costs through improvements in labour efficiency and
some selected price increases.
Through effective forward purchasing and a drive to reduce consumption we have
seen a reduction in utility costs with expected annualised costs reducing from
last year by £0.5 million. Looking forward into future financial years, we do
not anticipate further utility cost reductions as the lower forward contracted
commodity pricing is expected to be offset by increases in non-commodity
costs.
Cumulatively, these initiatives have resulted in an increase in adjusted
operating profit in the Managed business of £4.8 million from £27.7 million
to £32.5 million.
Tenanted Inns revenue was down slightly from £17.5 million to £16.9 million
due to the prior year disposal of 37 smaller non-core sites. On a like for
like basis Tenanted revenue was up 2%. EBITDA margin has improved by 1.3ppts
to 53.3% which demonstrates the quality of the Tenanted estate and shows the
result of proactive estate management in the prior year. This effective estate
management, combined with good underlying trading, has meant that we have seen
a 7.1% increase in the average EBITDA per Tenanted pub to £127k.
The Group has unsecured banking facilities of £185 million, split between a
revolving credit facility of £100 million and a term loan of £85 million.
These facilities are committed through to August 2028. The Group also has £20
million of debentures which are due for repayment in 2028. The Group's undrawn
committed facilities at 27 September 2025 were £63.2 million, with a further
£4.3 million of cash held on the Balance Sheet. Net debt (excluding leases)
was at £138.3 million, which was down £3.9 million from the net debt
position at year end (FY2025: £142.2 million). At 27 September 2025, the
Group's ratio of net debt to EBITDA was 2.18 times (H1 2025: 2.29 times). With
significant headroom on facilities and covenants, we have the scope to seek
further acquisition opportunities as appropriate, in line with our capital
allocation framework, when they arise.
Adjusted finance costs decreased to £5.8 million (H1 2025: £6.6 million).
The average cost of borrowing has reduced to 6.1% compared to 7.6% for the
prior first half. The reduction from the prior year has been achieved through
the benefit of the refinancing in March 2025, the execution of an interest
rate swap over £60 million of the existing term loan, securing a lower rate
of 3.65%, as well as the Bank of England rate reducing from 5% to 4%.
Separately disclosed items before tax show a £1.4 million expense (H1 2025:
£11.4 million credit), which principally consists of an impairment charge of
£1.9 million, in relation to the write down of five properties. The remaining
balance relates to the profit on the sale of two non-trading assets for £1.5
million, realising a profit of £0.5 million.
Tax has been provided at an effective rate before separately disclosed items
of 27.1% (H1 2025: 27.8%). The decrease in effective tax rate is mainly due to
the increased profit before tax and a reduction in depreciation on assets not
qualifying for capital allowances. Disclosure on tax is set out in note 5.
The movement in separately disclosed items has resulted in basic earnings per
share reducing by 9.60p to 27.84p (H1 2025: 37.44p). However, adjusted
earnings per share have increased by 8.22p to 30.03p (H1 2025: 21.81p) an
impressive 38% increase.
The growth in adjusted earnings per share has enabled the Group to declare an
interim dividend of 7.85p (H1 2025: 7.41p), which is an increase of 6% on last
year. This level of dividend growth is in line with our desire to follow a
progressive pathway to a normalised dividend cover in excess of 2.5 times. In
addition to the dividend, the Group continues to buy back shares with the 6.5
million share buyback programme completed in January 2025 and two further one
million share buyback programmes commenced in March 2025 (now completed) and
August 2025. In the period 1.2 million 'A' shares were repurchased. As at 27
September 2025, the Group had bought back a total of 7.8 million 'A' shares at
an average price of £6.05 since September 2022.
CURRENT TRADING AND OUTLOOK
Our positive momentum has continued into the second half with like for like
sales in our Managed Pubs and Hotels for the 32 weeks to 8 November rising by
4.6%. We are heading towards the peak Christmas season and we have a healthy
pipeline of Christmas bookings, which is currently 16% ahead of the same time
last year.
We remain focused on delivering an outstanding offer to our customers,
supported with exciting events and using high quality marketing to engage with
our extensive database of existing customers and using targeted social media
to attract new customers.
Continued investment in our estate is ongoing, with £15 million allocated for
the second half across 14 transformational schemes. This will include further
kitchen electrifications as we invest in a sustainable future.
Our support for our people continues unabated, with a range of development
programmes for team members at all levels, and a commitment to reach our
target of 200 apprentices during this financial year. For our Chefs' Guild,
the new Fuller's Kitchen Academy will provide a focus to fuel talent and
creativity.
We look forward to continuing to develop the business and drive returns for
our shareholders. Our consistent long-term strategy provides a clear focus and
vision, our Balance Sheet is in excellent shape and supports our ambition to
grow, and we face the future with optimism, excitement and confidence.
Simon Emeny
Executive Chairman
11 November 2025
Condensed Group Income Statement
For the 26 weeks ended 27 September 2025
Unaudited - 26 weeks ended Unaudited - 26 weeks ended Audited - 52 weeks ended
27 September 2025 28 September 2024 29 March 2025
Note Before Separately Total Before Separately Total Before Separately Total
separately
disclosed
£m
separately
disclosed
£m
separately
disclosed
£m
disclosed
items
disclosed
items
disclosed
items
items
£m
items
£m
items
£m
£m
£m
£m
Revenue 2 207.5 - 207.5 194.1 - 194.1 376.3 - 376.3
Operating costs 3 (179.2) (1.9) (181.1) (169.9) (7.8) (177.7) (335.9) (12.1) (348.0)
Operating profit 28.3 (1.9) 26.4 24.2 (7.8) 16.4 40.4 (12.1) 28.3
Profit on disposal of properties 3 - 0.5 0.5 - 18.8 18.8 - 18.9 18.9
Finance costs 4 (5.8) - (5.8) (6.6) 0.4 (6.2) (13.4) - (13.4)
Profit before tax 22.5 (1.4) 21.1 17.6 11.4 29.0 27.0 6.8 33.8
Tax 5 (6.1) 0.2 (5.9) (4.9) (2.3) (7.2) (7.4) 0.8 (6.6)
Profit for the period/year 16.4 (1.2) 15.2 12.7 9.1 21.8 19.6 7.6 27.2
Unaudited - 26 weeks ended Unaudited - 26 weeks ended Audited - 52 weeks ended
27 September 2025 28 September 2024 29 March 2025
Note Statutory Statutory Statutory
Adjusted Adjusted Adjusted
Earnings per share per 40p 'A' and 'C' ordinary share Pence Pence Pence Pence Pence Pence
Basic 6 30.03 27.84 21.81 37.44 34.22 47.49
Diluted 6 29.50 27.35 21.54 36.98 33.85 46.98
Earnings per share per 4p 'B' ordinary share
Basic 6 3.00 2.78 2.18 3.74 3.42 4.75
Diluted 6 2.95 2.73 2.15 3.70 3.39 4.70
Condensed Group Statement of Comprehensive Income
For the 26 weeks ended 27 September 2025
Unaudited
26 weeks ended Unaudited
27 September 2025 26 weeks ended Audited
£m 28 September 2024 52 weeks ended
£m 29 March 2025
£m
Note
Profit for the period/year 15.2 21.8 27.2
Items that may be reclassified to profit or loss
Net gains/(loss) on valuation of financial assets and liabilities 0.1 (0.1) -
Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss
Net actuarial (losses)/gains on pension schemes 11 (0.9) 1.4 (18.3)
Tax related to items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss 5 0.2 (0.3) 4.5
Other comprehensive (expense)/income for the period/year, net of tax (0.6) 1.0 (13.8)
Total comprehensive income for the period/year, net of tax 14.6 22.8 13.4
Condensed Group Balance Sheet
27 September 2025
Note Unaudited Unaudited Audited
At At At
27 September 2025 28 September 2024 29 March
£m £m 2025
£m
Non-current assets
Intangible assets 26.9 27.3 27.1
Property, plant and equipment 8 584.4 580.3 585.7
Investment properties 2.6 1.3 1.3
Right-of-use assets 54.5 56.8 52.8
Retirement benefit obligations 11 0.7 21.6 1.6
Other financial assets 0.2 - -
Total non-current assets 669.3 687.3 668.5
Current assets
Inventories 4.6 4.1 4.6
Trade and other receivables 15.7 11.4 12.0
Current tax receivable - 0.1 -
Cash and short-term deposits 10 4.3 11.0 13.8
Total current assets 24.6 26.6 30.4
Assets classified as held for sale 9 2.6 5.9 3.0
Total assets 696.5 719.8 701.9
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables (53.0) (49.1) (53.3)
Current tax payable (0.1) - (0.2)
Provisions (0.2) (0.8) (0.4)
Lease liabilities 10 (5.6) (5.6) (5.2)
Total current liabilities (58.9) (55.5) (59.1)
Non-current liabilities
Borrowings 10 (142.6) (139.2) (156.0)
Lease liabilities 10 (57.6) (58.8) (55.6)
Retirement benefit obligations 11 (1.2) (1.3) (1.2)
Deferred tax liabilities (22.4) (24.8) (18.3)
Total non-current liabilities (223.8) (224.1) (231.1)
Net assets 413.8 440.2 411.7
Capital and reserves
Share capital 23.3 24.8 23.8
Share premium account 53.2 53.2 53.2
Capital redemption reserve 5.8 4.3 5.3
Own shares (30.0) (31.0) (30.1)
Hedging reserve 0.1 (0.1) -
Retained earnings 361.4 389.0 359.5
Total equity 413.8 440.2 411.7
Condensed Group Statement of Changes in Equity
For the 26 weeks ended 27 September 2025
Unaudited - 26 weeks ended 27 September 2025 Share Share Capital Own Hedging Retained Total
capital
premium
redemption
shares
reserve
earnings
£m
£m
account
reserve
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
At 29 March 2025 23.8 53.2 5.3 (30.1) - 359.5 411.7
Profit for the period - - - - - 15.2 15.2
Other comprehensive income/(expense) for the period - - - - 0.1 (0.7) (0.6)
Total comprehensive income for the period - - - - 0.1 14.5 14.6
Dividends (note 7) - - - - - (6.7) (6.7)
Shares purchased to be held in ESOT or as treasury - - - (7.1) - - (7.1)
Shares released from ESOT and treasury - - - 0.1 - - 0.1
Share-based payment credits - - - - - 1.2 1.2
Cancellation of treasury shares (0.5) - 0.5 7.1 - (7.1) -
At 27 September 2025 23.3 53.2 5.8 (30.0) 0.1 361.4 413.8
Unaudited - 26 weeks ended 28 September 2024
At 30 March 2024 25.4 53.2 3.7 (32.9) - 381.9 431.3
Profit for the period - - - - - 21.8 21.8
Other comprehensive (expense)/income for the period - - - - (0.1) 1.1 1.0
Total comprehensive (expense)/income for the period - - - - (0.1) 22.9 22.8
Dividends (note 7) - - - - - (6.5) (6.5)
Shares purchased to be held in ESOT or as treasury - - - (8.4) - - (8.4)
Shares released from ESOT and treasury - - - 0.1 - - 0.1
Share-based payment credits - - - - - 0.7 0.7
Tax credited directly to equity - - - - - 0.2 0.2
Cancellation of treasury shares (0.6) - 0.6 10.2 - (10.2) -
At 28 September 2024 24.8 53.2 4.3 (31.0) (0.1) 389.0 440.2
Condensed Group Statement of Changes in Equity
For the 26 weeks ended 27 September 2025
Share Share Capital Own Hedging Retained Total
capital
premium
redemption
shares
reserve
earnings
£m
£m
account
reserve
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Audited - 52 weeks ended 29 March 2025
At 30 March 2024 25.4 53.2 3.7 (32.9) - 381.9 431.3
Profit for the year - - - - - 27.2 27.2
Other comprehensive expense for the year - - - - - (13.8) (13.8)
Total comprehensive income for the year - - - - - 13.4 13.4
Shares purchased to be held in ESOT or as treasury - - - (23.9) - - (23.9)
Shares released from ESOT and treasury - - - 0.1 - - 0.1
Treasury shares cancelled in the year (1.6) - 1.6 26.6 - (26.6) -
Dividends (note 7) - - - - - (10.7) (10.7)
Share-based payment expense - - - - - 1.5 1.5
At 29 March 2025 23.8 53.2 5.3 (30.1) - 359.5 411.7
Condensed Group Cash Flow Statement
For the 26 weeks ended 27 September 2025
Note Unaudited Unaudited
At At Audited
27 September 2025 28 September 2024 At
£m £m 29 March
2025
£m
Profit before tax 21.1 29.0 33.8
Net finance costs before separately disclosed items 4 5.8 6.6 13.4
Separately disclosed items 3 1.4 (11.4) (6.8)
Depreciation and amortisation 2 14.1 13.4 27.2
Adjusted EBITDA 42.4 37.6 67.6
Difference between pension charge and cash paid (0.1) (1.4) (1.5)
Share-based payment charges 1.2 0.7 1.5
Change in trade and other receivables (3.5) (1.1) (1.0)
Change in inventories - - (0.6)
Change in trade and other payables (0.3) (9.7) (6.1)
Cash impact of operating separately disclosed items 3 - (0.7) (0.2)
Cash generated from operations 39.7 25.4 59.7
Tax paid (1.8) (1.4) (2.0)
Cash generated from operating activities 37.9 24.0 57.7
Cash flow from investing activities
Purchase of property, plant and equipment (13.5) (31.1) (53.2)
Sale of property, plant and equipment and assets held for sale 1.4 36.4 40.5
Net cash (outflow)/inflow from investing activities (12.1) 5.3 (12.7)
Cash flow from financing activities
Purchase of own shares (7.1) (8.4) (23.9)
Receipts on release of own shares to option schemes 0.1 0.1 0.1
Interest paid (4.1) (5.0) (10.0)
Preference dividends paid (0.1) (0.1) (0.1)
Equity dividends (6.7) (6.5) (10.7)
paid
Repayment of bank loans (13.5) (6.3) (124.0)
Drawdown of bank loans - - 134.3
Payment of loan arrangement fees - - (0.8)
Principal elements of lease payments 10 (3.9) (4.3) (8.3)
Net cash outflow from financing activities (35.3) (30.5) (43.4)
Net movement in cash and cash equivalents 10 (9.5) (1.2) 1.6
Cash and cash equivalents at the start of the period 13.8 12.2 12.2
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period/year 10 4.3 11.0 13.8
Notes to the Condensed Financial Statements
For the 26 weeks ended 27 September 2025
1. Half Year Report
Basis of Preparation
The half year financial statements for the 26 weeks ended 27 September 2025
have been prepared in accordance with the Disclosure and Transparency Rules
("DTRs") of the Financial Conduct Authority and with International Accounting
Standard ("IAS") 34, Interim Financial Reporting and should be read in
conjunction with the Annual Report and Financial Statements for the 52 weeks
ended 29 March 2025.
The half year financial statements do not constitute full accounts as defined
by Section 434 of the Companies Act 2006. The figures for the 52 weeks ended
29 March 2025 are derived from the published statutory accounts. Full accounts
for the 52 weeks ended 29 March 2025, including an unqualified auditor's
report which did not make any statement under Section 498 of the Companies Act
2006, have been delivered to the Registrar of Companies.
The Directors have adopted the going concern basis in preparing these accounts
after assessing the Group's principal risks and uncertainties as previously
disclosed in the Group's latest Annual Report. The continued uncertainty over
the UK economy makes it difficult to forecast the future financial performance
and cash flows of the Group. When assessing the ability of the Group to
continue as a going concern, the Directors have considered the pattern of
trading in the first half of the financial year, the possibility of further
trading disruptions caused by rail and tube strikes and the impact of rising
staff costs. The Directors are confident that the Group has sufficient
liquidity to withstand these ongoing challenges for the 12-month going concern
assessment period to November 2026 (the 'going concern period'). There are no
adverse events outside of the going concern period which would have an impact
on the Group's assessment of going concern.
As at 27 September 2025, the Group Balance Sheet comprises pubs and hotels of
which 87% are freehold properties and has available headroom on facilities of
£63.2 million in addition to £4.3 million of cash and resulting net debt of
£138.3 million (excluding leases). The Group has unsecured banking facilities
of £185 million, split between a revolving credit facility of £100 million
and a term loan of £85 million, available to August 2028 with the option to
extend for two further years. Under the facilities agreement, the covenant
suite (tested quarterly) consist of net debt to adjusted EBITDA (leverage) and
adjusted EBITDA to net finance charges. The Group's debentures of £20m are
not due for repayment until 2028.
The Group has modelled financial projections for the going concern period,
which is defined as the 12-month period from the date of approval of these
financial statements to November 2026, based upon two scenarios, the 'base
case' and the 'downside case'. The base case is the Board approved FY2026
forecast as well as the first eight months of the FY2027 plan which forms part
of the Board approved three-year plan. The base case assumes that sales will
continue to grow, but with modest food and drink volume growth. The base case
assumes that staff costs will increase, impacted by the National Minimum Wage
and Employers' National Insurance costs resulting in continued wage inflation
across all job roles. The base case scenario indicates that the Group will
have sufficient resources to continue to settle its debts as they fall due and
operate well within its covenants for the going concern assessment period.
The Group has also modelled a 'downside case' which assumes that food and
drink volume decline by 10% in FY2026 and 5% in FY2027 from the 'base case'
and that staff costs increase at a higher rate than assumed in the 'base
case'. In this 'downside case', management would implement mitigating actions
such as overhead cost reduction, reduction of capital expenditure and other
property spend to essential maintenance and a decrease in bonus pay-out.
Further mitigating actions would also include disposals of licensed and
unlicensed properties. Under this scenario, the Group would still have
sufficient resources to settle liabilities as they fall due and headroom on
its covenants through the duration of the period.
The Group has also performed a reverse stress test to ascertain how far EBITDA
would have to decline before it failed the covenant tests. EBITDA would need
to decrease by 51% from the base case to fail the covenant tests.
The Directors have concluded that the reduction in EBITDA required to breach
the covenants is too remote and that this scenario is therefore considered
implausible.
The Directors have also determined that, over the period of the going concern
assessment, there is not expected to be a significant financial impact arising
from climate change.
After due consideration of the matters set out above, the Directors are
satisfied that there is a reasonable expectation that the Group has adequate
resources to continue in operational existence for the going concern
assessment period, being the 12 months from the date of signing these
financial statements through to November 2026, and have therefore adopted the
going concern basis in the preparation of these financial statements.
The half year financial statements were approved by the Directors on 11
November 2025.
New Accounting Standards
The accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the half year financial
statements are consistent with those followed in the preparation of the
Group's annual consolidated financial statements for the 52 weeks ended 29
March 2025. The Group has not early adopted any standard, interpretation or
amendment that has been issued but is not yet effective.
Taxation
Taxes on income in the interim periods are accrued using the tax rate that is
expected to be applicable to total annual earnings for the full year in each
tax jurisdiction based on substantively enacted or enacted tax rates at the
interim date.
2. Segmental Analysis
Unaudited - 26 weeks ended Managed Pubs Tenanted Unallocated(1) Total
27 September 2025
and Hotels Inns £m £m
£m £m
Revenue
Sales of goods and services 168.6 12.3 - 180.9
Accommodation income 21.4 - - 21.4
Total revenue from contracts with customers 190.0 12.3 - 202.3
Rental income 0.6 4.6 - 5.2
Revenue 190.6 16.9 - 207.5
Segment result 32.5 7.4 (11.6) 28.3
Operating separately disclosed items (1.9)
Operating profit 26.4
Profit on disposal of properties 0.5
Net finance costs (5.8)
Profit before tax 21.1
Other segment information
Additions: property, plant and equipment 11.9 1.3 0.5 13.7
Depreciation and amortisation 12.2 1.6 0.3 14.1
Impairment of property and right of use asset 1.9 - - 1.9
Adjusted EBITDA 44.7 9.0 (11.3) 42.4
Unaudited - 26 weeks ended Tenanted Unallocated(1) Total
28 September 2024
Managed Pubs Inns £m £m
and Hotels £m
£m
Revenue
Sales of goods and services 155.0 12.7 - 167.7
Accommodation income 20.9 - - 20.9
Total revenue from contracts with customers 175.9 12.7 - 188.6
Rental income 0.7 4.8 - 5.5
Revenue 176.6 17.5 - 194.1
Segment result 27.7 7.5 (11.0) 24.2
Operating separately disclosed items (7.8)
Operating profit 16.4
Profit on disposal of properties 18.8
Net finance costs (6.2)
Profit before tax 29.0
Other segment information
Additions: property, plant and equipment 30.3 1.5 0.1 31.9
Depreciation and amortisation 11.4 1.6 0.4 13.4
Impairment of property, assets held for sale and intangible assets 6.4 - - 6.4
Adjusted EBITDA 39.1 9.1 (10.6) 37.6
Audited - 52 weeks ended Managed Pubs Tenanted Unallocated(1) Total
29 March 2025
and Hotels Inns £m £m
£m £m
Revenue
Sale of goods and services 304.4 23.9 - 328.3
Accommodation income 36.7 - - 36.7
Total revenue from contracts with customers 341.1 23.9 - 365.0
Rental income 1.6 9.7 - 11.3
Revenue 342.7 33.6 - 376.3
Segment result 47.6 14.4 (21.6) 40.4
Operating separately disclosed items (12.1)
Operating Profit 28.3
Profit on disposal of properties 18.9
Net finance costs (13.4)
Profit before tax 33.8
Other segment information
Additions to property, plant and equipment 49.3 3.4 - 52.7
Depreciation and 23.3 3.2 0.7 27.2
amortisation
Impairment of property and goodwill net of reversals 9.0 1.4 - 10.4
Adjusted EBITDA 70.8 17.6 (20.8) 67.7
1 Unallocated expenses represent primarily the salaries and costs of
central management and support services. Unallocated capital expenditure
relates to additions to the support centre and central systems.
3. Separately Disclosed Items
Unaudited Unaudited
At At
27 September 2025 28 September 2024 Audited
£m £m At
29 March
2025
£m
Amounts included in operating profit:
Impairment of properties, right-of-use assets, assets classified as held for (1.9) (6.4) (10.4)
sale and intangible assets net of reversals of impairment
Insurance and legal claims - (0.7) -
Professional fees - - (0.9)
Pension past service costs - - (0.8)
Acquisition costs - (0.7) -
Total separately disclosed items included in operating profit (1.9) (7.8) (12.1)
Profit on disposal of properties 0.5 18.8 18.9
Separately disclosed finance credits/(expenses):
Finance credit on net pension surplus (note 11) - 0.4 0.8
Finance charge on the write down of arrangement fees - - (0.8)
Total separately disclosed finance credits - 0.4 -
Total separately disclosed items before tax (1.4) 11.4 6.8
Separately disclosed tax:
Profit on disposal of properties - (2.7) (0.7)
Other items 0.2 0.4 1.5
Total separately disclosed tax 0.2 (2.3) 0.8
Total separately disclosed items (1.2) 9.1 7.6
The impairment charge of £1.9 million (28 September 2024: £6.4 million, 29
March 2025: £10.4 million) relates to the write down to their recoverable
value of four properties (£1.8 million) and one right of use asset (£0.1
million).
The profit on disposal of properties of £0.5 million has been recognised on
the sale of two properties.
There was no cash impact of operating separately disclosed items before tax
for the 26 weeks ended 27 September 2025 (28 September 2024: £0.7 million
cash outflow, 29 March 2025: £0.2 million cash outflow).
4. Finance Costs
Unaudited Unaudited
At At
27 September 2025 28 September 2024 Audited
£m £m At
29 March
2025
£m
Finance costs
Interest income from financial assets 0.1 0.2 0.3
Interest expense arising on:
Financial liabilities at amortised cost - loans and debentures (4.3) (5.2) (10.4)
Financial liabilities at amortised cost - preference shares (0.1) (0.1) (0.1)
Financial liabilities at amortised cost - lease liabilities (1.5) (1.5) (3.2)
Net finance costs before separately disclosed items (5.8) (6.6) (13.4)
Finance credit on net pension liabilities (note 11) - 0.4 0.8
Finance charge on the write down of arrangement fees - - (0.8)
Net finance costs (5.8) (6.2) (13.4)
5. Taxation
Unaudited Unaudited
At At
27 September 2025 28 September 2024 Audited
£m £m At
29 March
2025
£m
Tax on profit on ordinary activities
Current income tax:
Current tax on profit for the period/year 1.6 1.0 2.2
Total current income tax 1.6 1.0 2.2
Deferred tax:
Origination and reversal of temporary differences 4.3 6.4 5.1
Amounts over provided in previous years - (0.2) (0.7)
Total deferred tax 4.3 6.2 4.4
Total tax charged in the Income Statement 5.9 7.2 6.6
Analysed as:
Before separately disclosed items 6.1 4.9 7.4
Separately disclosed items (0.2) 2.3 (0.8)
Total tax charged in the Income Statement 5.9 7.2 6.6
Tax relating to items (credited)/charged to the Statement of Comprehensive
Income
Deferred tax:
Net actuarial (losses)/gains on pension scheme (0.2) 0.3 (4.5)
Tax (credit)/charge included in the Statement of Comprehensive Income (0.2) 0.3 (4.5)
Tax relating to items credited directly to equity
Deferred tax:
Share-based payments - (0.2) -
Tax credit included in the Statement of Changes in Equity - (0.2) -
The taxation charge for the 26 weeks to 27 September 2025 is calculated by
applying the Directors' best estimate of the annual effective tax rate to the
profit for the period.
6. Earnings Per Share
Continuing operations Unaudited Unaudited
At At
27 September 2025 28 September 2024 Audited
£m £m At
29 March
2025
£m
Profit attributable to equity shareholders 15.2 21.8 27.2
Separately disclosed items net of tax 1.2 (9.1) (7.6)
Adjusted earnings attributable to equity shareholders 16.4 12.7 19.6
Number Number Number
Weighted average share capital 54,603,000 58,229,000 57,270,000
Dilutive outstanding options and share awards 983,000 720,000 625,000
Diluted weighted average share capital 55,586,000 58,949,000 57,895,000
40p 'A' and 'C' ordinary share Pence Pence Pence
Basic earnings per share 27.84 37.44 47.49
Diluted earnings per share 27.35 36.98 46.98
Adjusted earnings per share 30.03 21.81 34.22
Diluted adjusted earnings per share 29.50 21.54 33.85
4p 'B' ordinary share Pence Pence Pence
Basic earnings per share 2.78 3.74 4.75
Diluted earnings per share 2.73 3.70 4.70
Adjusted earnings per share 3.00 2.18 3.42
Diluted adjusted earnings per share 2.95 2.15 3.39
For the purposes of calculating the number of shares to be used above, 'B'
shares have been treated as one-tenth of an 'A' or 'C' share. The earnings per
share calculation is based on earnings from continuing operations and on the
weighted average ordinary share capital which excludes shares held by trusts
relating to employee share options and shares held in treasury of 4,250,305
(28 September 2024: 4,850,874, 29 March 2025: 4,599,962).
Diluted earnings per share is calculated using the same earnings figure as for
basic earnings per share, divided by the weighted average number of ordinary
shares outstanding during the period plus the weighted average number of
ordinary shares that would be issued on the conversion of all the dilutive
potential ordinary shares into ordinary shares.
Adjusted earnings per share is calculated on profit after tax excluding
separately disclosed items and on the same weighted average ordinary share
capital as for the basic and diluted earnings per share. An adjusted earnings
per share measure has been included as the Directors consider that this
measure better reflects the underlying earnings of the Group.
7. Dividends
Unaudited Unaudited
At At
27 September 2025 28 September 2024 Audited
£m £m At
29 March
2025
£m
Declared and paid during the period
Interim paid in the period for 2025 - - 4.2
Final dividend paid in the period for 2024 - 6.5 6.5
Final dividend paid in the period for 2025 6.7 - -
Equity dividends paid 6.7 6.5 10.7
Dividends on cumulative preference shares (note 4) 0.1 0.1 0.1
Pence Pence Pence
Dividends per 40p 'A' and 'C' ordinary share
declared in respect of the period
Interim 7.85 7.41 7.41
Final - - 12.35
7.85 7.41 19.76
The pence figures above are for the 40p 'A' ordinary shares and 40p 'C'
ordinary shares. The 4p 'B' ordinary shares carry dividend rights of one-tenth
of those applicable to the 40p 'A' ordinary shares. Own shares held in the
employee share trusts do not qualify for dividends as the Trustees have waived
their rights. Dividends are also not paid on own shares held as treasury
shares.
The Directors have declared an interim dividend for the 40p 'A' ordinary
shares and 40p 'C' ordinary shares of 7.85 p (HY2025: 7.41p) and 0.785 p
(HY2025: 0.741p) for the 4p 'B' ordinary shares.
8. Property, Plant and Equipment
Unaudited Unaudited
At At
27 September 2025 28 September 2024 Audited
£m £m At
29 March
2025
£m
Net book value at start of period/year 585.7 581.9 581.9
Additions 13.7 31.9 52.7
Disposals - (16.7) (16.7)
Transfer to investment property (1.3) - -
Impairment loss net of reversals (1.8) (3.9) (8.8)
Transfers to assets classified as held for sale (0.8) (2.7) (2.8)
Depreciation provided during the period (11.1) (10.2) (20.6)
Net book value at end of period/year 584.4 580.3 585.7
During the 26 weeks ended 27 September 2025, the Group recognised a charge of
£1.8 million (28 September 2024: £3.9 million, 29 March 2025: £8.8 million)
in respect of the write down in value of four properties held under
properties, plant and equipment to their recoverable value.
The Group considers each trading outlet to be a cash generating unit ("CGU")
and each CGU is reviewed at each reporting date for indicators of impairment.
In assessing whether an asset has been impaired, the carrying amount of the
CGU is compared to its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the
higher of its fair value less costs to sell ("FVLCS") and its value in use.
The Group uses a range of methods for estimating FVLCS which include applying
a market multiple to the CGU EBITDA and, for leasehold sites, present value
techniques using a discounted cash flow method.
For the purposes of estimating the value in use of CGUs, management have used
a discounted cash flow approach. The calculations use cash flow projections
based on the following plans covering a four-year period. The key assumptions
used by management are:
• A long-term growth rate of 2.0% (29 March 2025: 2.0%)
was used for cash flows subsequent to the four-year approved budget/forecast
period.
• An EBITDA multiple is estimated based on a normalised
trading basis and market data obtained from external sources. This resulted in
an average multiple of 10.5x (freehold 11.8x) for the Managed estate and 10.9x
on the Tenanted estate.
• The discount rate is based on the Group's weighted
average cost of capital, which is used across all CGUs due to their similar
characteristics. The pre-tax discount rate is 10.7% (29 March 2025: 10.7%).
Impairments are recognised where the property valuation is also lower than the
CGU's carrying value for those determined to be at risk of impairment. This is
measured as the difference between the carrying value and the higher of FVLCS
and its value in use. Where the property valuation exceeds the carrying value,
no impairment is required.
The value in use calculations are sensitive to the assumptions used. The
Directors consider a movement of 1.5% in the discount rate and 0.5% in the
growth rate to be reasonable with reference to current market yield curves and
the current economic conditions. The additional potential
impairment/(reversal) based on the following sensitivities is set out as
follows:
£m
Increase discount rate by 1.5% 17.1
Decrease discount rate by 1.5% (14.1)
Increase growth rate by 0.5% (4.6)
Decrease growth rate by 0.5% 4.5
The additional CGUs that would need to be considered for impairment would have
their FVLCS determined in order to conclude on whether an impairment is
required. A general decrease in property values across the portfolio would
have a similar effect to that set out above i.e. any reduction in property
values would lead to assets being at risk of impairment. In the current year,
a decrease of 5% in the FVLCS would have led to an additional impairment of
£0.5 million for the CGUs where recoverable amount has been assessed on
FVLCS.
9. Assets held for sale
Unaudited Unaudited
At At
27 September 2025 28 September 2024 Audited
£m £m At
29 March
2025
£m
Assets held for sale at the start of the period/year 3.0 8.4 8.4
Assets disposed of during the period/year (1.2) (3.7) (7.6)
Assets transferred from property, plant and equipment 0.8 2.7 2.8
Impairment of assets - (1.5) (0.6)
Assets held for sale at the end of the period/year 2.6 5.9 3.0
10. Analysis of Net Debt
Unaudited - 26 weeks ended 27 September 2025 At Cash Non At
29 March
flows
cash(1)
27 September
2025
£m
£m
2025
£m
£m
Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash and short-term deposits 13.8 (9.5) - 4.3
13.8 (9.5) - 4.3
Financial liabilities
Lease liabilities (60.8) 3.9 (6.3) (63.2)
(60.8) 3.9 (6.3) (63.2)
Debt:
Bank loans(2) (134.5) 13.5 (0.1) (121.1)
Debenture stock (19.9) - - (19.9)
Preference shares (1.6) - - (1.6)
Total borrowings (156.0) 13.5 (0.1) (142.6)
Net debt (203.0) 7.9 (6.4) (201.5)
Unaudited - 26 weeks ended 28 September 2024 At Cash Non At
30 March
flows
cash(1)
28 September
2024
£m
£m
2024
£m
£m
Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash and short-term deposits 12.2 (1.2) - 11.0
12.2 (1.2) - 11.0
Financial liabilities
Lease liabilities (65.9) 4.3 (2.8) (64.4)
(65.9) 4.3 (2.8) (64.4)
Debt:
Bank loans(2) (123.8) 6.3 (0.2) (117.7)
Debenture stock (19.9) - - (19.9)
Preference shares (1.6) - - (1.6)
Total borrowings (145.3) 6.3 (0.2) (139.2)
Net debt (199.0) 9.4 (3.0) (192.6)
Audited - 52 weeks ended 29 March 2025 At Cash Non At
30 March
flows
cash(1)
29 March
2024
£m
£m
2025
£m
£m
Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash and short-term deposits 12.2 1.6 - 13.8
12.2 1.6 - 13.8
Financial liabilities
Lease liabilities (65.9) 8.3 (3.2) (60.8)
(65.9) 8.3 (3.2) (60.8)
Debt:
Bank loans(2) (123.8) (9.5) (1.2) (134.5)
Debenture stock (19.9) - - (19.9)
Preference shares (1.6) - - (1.6)
Total borrowings (145.3) (9.5) (1.2) (156.0)
Net debt (199.0) 0.4 (4.4) (203.0)
1 Non-cash movements relate to the amortisation of arrangement fees,
arrangement fees accrued and movement in lease liabilities.
2 Bank loans are net of arrangement fees and cashflows include the payment
of arrangement fees.
11. Retirement Benefit Obligations
The amount included in the Balance Sheet arising from the Group's obligations Unaudited Unaudited Audited
in respect of its defined benefit retirement plan
At At At
27 September 2025 28 September 2024 29 March
£m £m 2025
£m
Fair value of Scheme assets 83.8 112.9 86.0
Present value of Scheme liabilities (84.3) (92.6) (85.6)
(Deficit)/surplus in the Scheme (0.5) 20.3 0.4
The net position of the defined benefit retirement plan for the 26 weeks ended
27 September 2025 shows a deficit of £0.5 million. The Company completed a
full buy-in of the Scheme with Legal & General on 11 December 2024.
Included within the total present value of Group and Company Scheme
liabilities of £84.3 million (28 September 2024: £92.6 million, 29 March
2025: £85.6 million) are liabilities of £1.2 million (28 September 2024:
£1.3 million, 29 March 2025: £1.2 million) which are entirely unfunded.
These have been shown separately on the Balance Sheet as there is no right to
offset the assets of the funded Scheme against the unfunded Scheme.
Key financial assumptions used in the valuation Unaudited Unaudited
of the Scheme
At At
27 September 2025 28 September 2024 Audited
£m £m At
29 March
2025
£m
Rate of increase in pensions in payment 2.90% 3.05% 2.95%
Discount rate 5.90% 5.10% 5.75%
Inflation assumption - RPI 2.95% 3.10% 3.00%
Inflation assumption - CPI (pre 2030/post 2030) 2.05% / 2.95% 2.20%/3.10% 2.10%/3.00%
Mortality Assumptions
The mortality assumptions used in the valuation of the Scheme as at 27
September 2025 are as set out in the financial statements for the 52 weeks
ended 29 March 2025.
Assets in the Scheme Unaudited Unaudited Audited
At At At
27 September 2025 28 September 2024 29 March
£m £m 2025
£m
Corporate bonds - 46.2 -
Index linked debt instruments - 32.8 1.3
Alternatives - 20.6 -
Cash 1.6 11.1 1.3
Annuities 82.2 2.2 83.4
Total market value of assets 83.8 112.9 86.0
Movement in deficit during period Unaudited Unaudited
At At
27 September 2025 28 September 2024 Audited
£m £m At
29 March
2025
£m
Surplus in Scheme at beginning of the period 0.4 17.3 17.3
Movement in period:
Net interest cost (note - 0.4 0.8
4)
Net actuarial (losses)/gains (0.9) 1.4 (18.3)
Contributions 0.1 1.4 1.5
Administration expenses (0.1) (0.2) (0.1)
Past service costs - - (0.8)
(Deficit)/Surplus in Scheme at end of the period (0.5) 20.3 0.4
On 1 January 2015 the plan was closed to future accruals.
12. Principal Risks and Uncertainties
In the course of normal business, the Group continually assesses and takes
action to mitigate the various risks encountered that could impact the
achievement of its objectives. Systems and processes are in place to enable
the Board to monitor and control the Group's management of risk, which are
detailed in the Corporate Governance Report of the Annual Report and Financial
Statements 2025. The principal risks and uncertainties and their associated
mitigating and monitoring controls which may affect the Group's performance in
the next six months are consistent with those detailed on pages 39 to 42 of
the Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025, and are available on the
Fuller's website, www.fullers.co.uk (http://www.fullers.co.uk) .
The risks to the business arising from the Employments Rights Bill continue to
emerge. The publication of the Employment Law Roadmap in July 2025 has
provided helpful guidance on timeframe but we await legislative detail to
understand the full impact of the reforms. The forthcoming Budget on 26
November 2025 is another source of some uncertainty that is likely to have
implications for the sector and our customers. As we plan for Christmas, we
are hopeful for a December free from transport strikes but remain cognisant of
the effect industrial action can have on this important trading period.
We believe that the controls and mitigations we have in place to address our
risks remain effective in reducing the impact on the business. We are well
placed to withstand these pressures through the strength of our Balance Sheet.
Our strong financial position supports our long-term strategy that focuses on
ensuring we develop and retain the best people, build strong relationships
with our suppliers and deliver a premium experience with the agility to
respond to both short and long-term changes in consumer behaviour.
13. Shareholders' information
Shareholders holding 40p 'C' ordinary shares are reminded that they have 30
days from 12 November 2025 should they wish to convert those 'C' shares to 'A'
shares. The next available opportunity after that will be June 2026. For
further details, please contact the Company's registrars, Computershare, on
0370 889 4096.
14. Statement of Directors' Responsibilities
The Directors confirm, to the best of their knowledge, that this condensed set
of financial statements gives a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities,
financial position and profit or loss of the issuer or the undertakings
included in the consolidation as a whole and has been prepared in accordance
with IAS 34, Interim Financial Reporting, as adopted by the United Kingdom.
The interim management report herein includes a fair review of the information
required by DTR 4.2.7 and DTR 4.2.8, namely:
· an indication of important events that have occurred during the
first six months and their impact on the financial statements and a
description of the principal risks and uncertainties for the remaining six
months of the financial year.
· disclosure of material related party transactions in the first
six months and any material changes to related party transactions.
By order of the Board
SIMON EMENY
EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN
11 NOVEMBER 2025
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