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REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087 (Scotland)















ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED

Strategic Report, Report of the Directors and

Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2023






ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)






Contents of the Financial Statements
for the year ended 31 December 2023




Page

Company Information 1

Strategic Report 2 to 4

Report of the Directors 5 to 8

Report of the Independent Auditors 9 to 11

Income Statement 12

Other Comprehensive Income 13

Balance Sheet 14

Statement of Changes in Equity 15

Cash Flow Statement 16

Notes to the Cash Flow Statement 17

Notes to the Financial Statements 18 to 26


ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED

Company Information
for the year ended 31 December 2023







Directors: E S Jardine
A Jardine





Registered office: Suite 1/14
Falkirk Business Hub
45 Vicar Street
Falkirk
Stirlingshire
FK1 1LL





Registered number: SC391087 (Scotland)





Auditors: Cooper Parry Group Limited
Statutory Auditor
CUBO Birmingham
3rd Floor
Two Chamberlain Square
Birmingham
West Midlands
B3 3AX

ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Strategic Report
for the year ended 31 December 2023

The directors present their strategic report for the year ended 31 December 2023.

Review of business
The company operates eleven McDonald's franchised restaurants in Falkirk, Stirling and the surrounding areas of Scotland, employing over 1,250 members of staff.

As a result of the 2023 menu and marketing strategy, alongside the execution of incremental price rises, the company has seen increased sales growth as the company continues to operate against the backdrop of significant macro-economic challenges.

Given the direct link between our approach to pricing, the external environment, and our success in relation to our customers, we will continue to remain close to understanding this relationship and look constantly to evaluate how our internal actions are impacting our customers.

The financial position of the company is healthy with the balance sheet showing net assets of £8.60 million, increased from £7.89 million in 2022.

Key performance indicators
Sales for the year amounted to £54.42 million, an increase of £12.10 million from 2022 giving an overall sales increase of approximately 28.59%. The growth in sales is predominantly due to price rises and the acquisition of a restaurant during the year. On a like for like basis for the nine stores trading over the full financial year, sales have increased by 10.40%.

The gross profit margin is 64.45% compared to 64.49% in 2022 and is in line with expectations.

Future developments
2023 economic trends are broadly expected to continue into 2024.

As in 2023, sales growth in 2024 will be predominantly driven by year on year pricing benefit. This will particularly benefit Q1 (Quarter 1) before we annualise price moves made in 2023. To counter any potential negative GC (Guest Count) impact from price rises, we have a strong Marketing Calendar, with particular focus on Value at key parts of the year. The Calendar also includes a higher number of innovative promotional Pies and new McFlurry flavour variants, both of which drove strong incremental sales and visits in 2023. Given the uncertain market environment, we will as ever need to remain flexible and adaptive should we begin to see any risks to this Plan.

We also expect to see continued incremental sales benefit in 2024 from the MyMcDonald's application, with a greater customer base engaged with the MyMcDonald's Rewards scheme, and refined CRM communications to encourage customer frequency.

Instores and Drive Thrus are likely to see similar levels and phasing of sales growth in 2024, as we move away from any lingering COVID-19 impact. The percentage of sales and phasing coming through McDelivery is likely to remain stable year on year.

The 2023 pricing strategy has been bold, utilising a front-loaded approach, with five pricing rounds overall. From this, circa 5% MBI (Menu Board Index) benefit will be carried into 2024.

The Price Strategy Group will continue to take a strategic, customer-led approach throughout 2024, for which four price moves are planned. Rather than utilising a front-loaded approach, the price rounds are expected to be more balanced in 2024, with the timing, scale and menu items included in the pricing recommendations leveraging the exciting marketing plan that is in place. As with recent years, the group will remain agile against the backdrop of a challenging external environment.

The 2024 pricing strategy will ensure Gross Margin growth, whilst maintaining the business' value proposition. The group will focus on driving sustainable growth - for example, building upon the work which has been done so far on Value and Delivery, and refining the long-term view of pricing and menu architecture.

The company also plans to acquire more restaurants should the opportunity arise.


ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Strategic Report
for the year ended 31 December 2023

Principal risks and uncertainties
The company is continually assessing all risks with an aim to mitigate any future threats these may have on the business.

Economic risk
Following some very challenging times, we are optimistic about the economic future. Customer confidence continues to rise and unemployment rates are falling. A cautious approach is still required as real disposable income continues to decline as the Cost of Living and interest rates continue to rise. Principal risks are increasing commodity prices, increased utility costs and labour rates adding pressure to margins with significant upward movements in interest rates that may also increase costs. The first mentioned risk is controlled by McDonald's collective purchasing initiatives.

The level of borrowing is such that interest rate increases remain manageable.

Supply Chain Inflation
We have continued to work at mitigating the impact of Food and Paper inflation within our 2024 outlook - this has resulted in further improvement with a range of 3% - 6% Food and Paper inflation now anticipated for the UK. We are also continuing to see increased levels of cost certainty, with an expectation that circa 40% of our costs will be secured by the end of December.

As with previous outlook, we expect a relatively flat profile through the year. The increases we are expecting continue to be driven by commodity price on particular categories, as well as market labour increases. The focus of McDonald's negotiations remains on assured supply and to put Farmers and Growers in a position to continue developing alongside the business.

Our 2024 Forecast is made up of two elements:
- Baseline inflation of circa 1.5% carry over from 2023 increases.
- In-year inflation of 1.5% - 4.5% on prices negotiated for 2024.

Regulatory risks
The company's operations demand a high level of compliance within a wide range of regulatory requirements. In particular:
- Health and safety
- Hygiene procedures
- Employment laws
- Licensing
The above, along with a number of other areas, are monitored in detail by McDonald's, as being in the fast food industry brings a high level of regulatory concerns.

Consumer taste
Any material changes in the way the consumer views the fast food industry could have an adverse effect on the company. However, this can also work in the opposite direction and could assist the company to achieve growth. As a result, the company focuses, in detail, on recognising demographic trends, ensuring innovation and the use of the freshest and highest quality products through its stores. The company has strict policies to ensure that all stores are maintaining the McDonald's ethos.

Competitors
The fast food market is a very competitive market, with a high number of large competitors trading in the sector. In order to remain as one of the main players, McDonald's have dedicated teams who focus on ensuring they remain a leading company within the market. This allows them to compete with other large fast food chains.

With these risks and uncertainties in mind, we are aware that any plans for the future development of the business may be subject to unforeseen future events outside our control, hence we are constantly assessing our plans in line with the current environment.


ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Strategic Report
for the year ended 31 December 2023

Section 172(1) statement
The board of directors take into account the likely consequences of long-term decisions; build relationships with stakeholders; understand the importance of engaging with our employees; understand the impact of our operations on the communities within which we operate; and attribute importance to behaving as a responsible business.

The board of directors consider, both individually and together, that they have acted in the way they consider, in good faith, would be most likely to promote the success of the company for the benefit of its members as a whole (having regard to the stakeholders and matters set out in s172(1)(a-f) of the Act) in the decisions taken during the year ended 31 December 2023. In particular by reference to the approval of our business plan, which is updated on an annual basis. Our business plan was designed to have a long-term beneficial impact on the company and to contribute to its success in delivering high quality quick-service food.

Our employees are fundamental to the delivery of our plan. We aim to be a responsible employer in our approach the to pay and benefits our employees receive. The health, safety and wellbeing of our employees is one of our primary considerations in the way we do business.

As the Board of directors, our intention is to behave responsibly and ensure that management operate the business in a responsible manner, operating within the high standards of business conduct and good governance expected for a business such as ours, and in doing so, will contribute to the delivery of our plan.

On behalf of the board:





E S Jardine - Director


29 August 2024

ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Report of the Directors
for the year ended 31 December 2023

The directors present their report with the financial statements of the company for the year ended 31 December 2023.

Principal activity
The principal activity of the company in the year under review was that of the operation of McDonald's franchised restaurants.

Dividends
Interim dividends per share were paid as follows:
Ordinary A £1 shares £264.67 - 5 April 2023
Ordinary B £1 shares £800.00 - 5 April 2023


The directors recommend that no final dividends be paid.

The total distribution of dividends for the year ended 31 December 2023 will be £ 79,700 .

Research and development
The company does not carry out any independent research and development. However the franchisor, McDonald's Restaurants Limited, carries out its own research and development on behalf of all franchisees. The company makes a contribution towards this through its existing payments to the franchisor.

Directors
The directors shown below have held office during the whole of the period from 1 January 2023 to the date of this report.

E S Jardine
A Jardine

Going concern
The directors have considered the application of the going concern basis of accounting and in doing so they have considered the period from the date of this report until 31 December 2024. The directors have a reasonable expectation that the company has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus, they continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the annual financial statements.

Employment of disabled persons
The company operates a policy of giving full & fair consideration to employment applications from disabled persons and to the continued employment and training of employees who become disabled.

Provision of information to employees
The company has a system for providing employees with information of concern to them. It also consults employees on a regular basis so that their views can be taken into account in making decisions affecting them. It regularly explains to employees the financial and economic factors affecting the performance of the company and makes them aware of the provision of training, career development and promotion of disabled employees.

Engagement with employees
Our employees are fundamental to the delivery of our plan. We aim to be a responsible employer in our approach to the pay and benefits our employees receive. The health, safety and wellbeing of our employees is one of our primary considerations in the way we do business.

Engagement with suppliers, customers and others
The board of directors take into account the likely consequences of long-term decisions; build relationships with stakeholders; understand the impact of our operations on the communities within which we operate; and attribute importance to behaving as a responsible business.

Streamlined energy and carbon reporting
The McDonald's restaurants attributed to the company's greenhouse gas emissions, reportable under SECR from 1st January 2023 - 31st December 2023, were 1,459 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e). These include emissions associated with electricity and natural gas consumption. The number of sites contributing to this report has increased from 9 in 2022 to 11 in 2023. The company's total greenhouse gas emissions increased by 31% compared to revised 2022 figures, because purchased electricity energy consumption (kWh) has increased by 22% and natural gas energy consumption (kWh) has increased by 39%, from 2022 to 2023.

Notable factors that could have contributed to the movement in emissions are as follows:
- Revision of methodology to align consumption to McDonald's AI Track energy consumption figures for FY2023.
- The carbon intensity of the grid electricity increased in 2023 for the first time in a few years, by 7%

ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Report of the Directors
for the year ended 31 December 2023

- The methodology for calculating electricity emissions was adjusted to reflect good practice for the inclusion of electrical transport and distribution of losses (T&D losses) under the SECR regulations.

As per SECR guidelines, the company's emission intensity is calculated as the ratio of annual emissions (tCO2e) to the turnover (in £million). For FY 2023, this resulted in an emission intensity of 27.02 tCO2e per £million, which represents a 1.87% increase compared to the previous year 26.52 tCO2e per £million).


Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Table 1: Greenhouse gas emissions by year (tCO2e) - location-based


Emissions Source

2022
2022 -
revised (a

)

2023

% share

% change
Electricity 920 1,004 1,309 89.7 30
Natural Gas 97 97 136 9.3 40
Purchased fuel (LPG) - - - - -
Refrigerants - - - - -
Transportation - direct 3 3 3 0.2 -
Transportation - indirect 10 10 11 0.8 -
Total Emissions (tC02e) 1,030 1,114 1,459 100 31
Turnover (£m) 42 42 54 - 29
Intensity (tC02e per £m) 24.52 26.52 27.02 - 2

Location-based reporting uses a national carbon emissions factor to calculate the emissions from the generation of electricity, reflecting the diverse source of electricity generation supplied to the national grid.

(a)The emissions reported for electricity in 2022 has been revised to include Transmission and Distribution losses(T&D) [UK Greenhouse Gas Conversion Factors (publishing.service.gov.uk) page 7 Transport and Distribution].

Table 2: Greenhouse gas emissions by scope (tonnes CO2e) - location-based

Emissions Source Scope 1 Scope 2 Scope 3 Total
Electricity - 1,205 104 1,309
Natural Gas 136 - - 136
Purchased fuel (LPG) - - - -
Refrigerants - - - -
Transportation 3 - 11 14
Total Emissions (tC02e) 139 1,205 115 1,459
Share of Total % 9.5 82.6 7.9 100

Scope 1: Natural gas and purchased fuel (LPG). Scope 2: Electricity (generation). Scope 3: Losses from electricity distribution and transmission (T&D). This only includes emissions reportable under SECR and may not reflect the entire carbon footprint of the organisation.








Energy Consumption
Table 3: Energy consumption per fuel type (kWh)

Emissions Source 2022 2023(b ) % share % change
Electricity 4,754,987 5,818,558 87.9 22
Natural Gas 532,516 742,568 11.2 39
Purchased fuel (LPG) - - - -
Refrigerants - - - -
Transportation - direct 10,334 12,167 0.2 18
Transportation - indirect 40,691 46,455 0.7 14
Total 5,338,528 6,619,748 100 24
(b)Includes extrapolation carried out by Aligned Incentives.

ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Report of the Directors
for the year ended 31 December 2023


Boundary, Methodology and Exclusions
An 'operational control' approach has been used to define the Greenhouse Gas emissions boundary[c].

This approach captures emissions associated with your operations in the restaurants. This report covers UK operations only, as required by SECR for Non-Quoted Large Companies.

This information was collected and reported in line with the methodology set out in the UK Government's Environmental Reporting Guidelines, 2019.

Emissions have been calculated using the latest conversion factors provided by the UK Government. No other material omissions from the mandatory reporting scope. For Refrigerant emissions, GWP conversion factors have been used [High-GWP Refrigerants | California Air Resources Board, Greenhouse Gas Inventory Guidance: Fugitive Emissions (epa.gov)]

The company's 2022 electricity emissions have been revised. This update and the inclusion of Transport and Distribution factors for emissions calculation is to reflect good practice in UK reporting as detailed in the GHG Conversion Factors [Greenhouse gas reporting: conversion factors 2023 - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)]. This revision also incorporates updated conversion factors.

Energy consumption (in kWh) for periods 1st January 2023 - 31st December 2023 have been used to calculate emissions for the company's FY2023, ending in December 2023.

2023 consumption data from McDonald's AI Track were used for the gas, electricity, purchased fuel and refrigerants figures. Gas and electricity consumption includes extrapolation carried out by Aligned Incentives.

[c] An operational control approach to GHG emissions boundary is defined as: "Your organisation has operational control over an operation if it, or one of its subsidiaries, has the full authority to introduce and implement its operating policies at the operation".

Energy Efficiency Initiatives
The company has continued to seek and progress energy efficiency measures, within both the work processes and the use of work equipment. McDonald's are actively taking part in mandatory compliance schemes, such as the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme, TCFD and considering the implementation of recommendations outlined in the ESOS audit reports.

The following approaches to energy efficiency are being undertaken by McDonald's Restaurants Limited and will be expanded over the following years:
- Baselining resource use by bringing online increased effort to collate the data on a range of resources.
- Implementation Strategy being developed and deployed to create significant energy and carbon reduction.
- Engagement Strategy with the Supply chain to reduce the associated emissions further.
- Developing Metrics and Targets to reflect performance across our portfolio at the most granular level and more in depth data tracking of the use of resources.
- Governance including Board oversight, culture, training and incentives being developed.

The following approaches to energy efficiency being undertaken by the company and will be expanded over the following years include:
- Where possible the use of electrical vehicles for business travel.

Statement of directors' responsibilities
The directors are responsible for preparing the Strategic Report, the Report of the Directors and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations.

Company law requires the directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under that law the directors have elected to prepare the financial statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable law). Under company law the directors must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the company and of the profit or loss of the company for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the directors are required to:

-select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
-make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
-state whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and
explained in the financial statements;
-prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the company will continue in business.


ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Report of the Directors
for the year ended 31 December 2023

Statement of directors' responsibilities - continued
The directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the company's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Statement as to disclosure of information to auditors
So far as the directors are aware, there is no relevant audit information (as defined by Section 418 of the Companies Act 2006) of which the company's auditors are unaware, and each director has taken all the steps that he or she ought to have taken as a director in order to make himself or herself aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the company's auditors are aware of that information.

Auditors
The audit business of Haines Watts Birmingham LLP was acquired by Cooper Parry Group Limited on 14 November 2023. Haines Watts Birmingham LLP has resigned as auditor and Cooper Parry Group Limited has been appointed in its place.

The auditors, Cooper Parry Group Limited, are deemed re-appointed under Section 487(2) of the Companies Act 2006.

On behalf of the board:





E S Jardine - Director


29 August 2024

Report of the Independent Auditors to the Members of
ESJ Restaurants Limited

Opinion
We have audited the financial statements of ESJ Restaurants Limited (the 'company') for the year ended 31 December 2023 which comprise the Income Statement, Other Comprehensive Income, Balance Sheet, Statement of Changes in Equity, Cash Flow Statement and Notes to the Cash Flow Statement, Notes to the Financial Statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion the financial statements:
-give a true and fair view of the state of the company's affairs as at 31 December 2023 and of its profit for the year then ended;
-have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and
-have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.

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 Auditors' responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the 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, 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.

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 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.

Other information
The directors are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information in the Strategic Report and the Report of the Directors, but does not include the financial statements and our Report of the Auditors thereon.

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.

In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether 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, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit:
- the information given in the Strategic Report and the Report of the Directors for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and
- the Strategic Report and the Report of the Directors have been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.

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

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:
- adequate accounting records have not been kept, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or
- the financial statements 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.

Report of the Independent Auditors to the Members of
ESJ Restaurants Limited


Responsibilities of directors
As explained more fully in the Statement of Directors' Responsibilities set out on pages seven and eight, 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 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 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 company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditors' 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 a Report of the Auditors 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. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below:

Based on our understanding of the industry, we identified that the principal risks of non-compliance related to breaches of health and safety, including food hygiene. We considered the extent to which non-compliance might have a material affect on the financial statements.

We also considered those laws and regulations that have a direct impact on preparation of the financial statements, such as the Companies Act 2006. We examined management's incentives and opportunities for fraudulent manipulation of the financial statements (including the risk of overriding of controls) and determined that the principal risks were relating to management bias in accounting estimates, in particular those of accrued liabilities and the useful life of tangible assets.

We also discussed with management the possibility of non-compliance with health and safety and food hygiene regulations and reviewed the management controls in place to detect such irregularities. Audit procedures included challenging assumptions made by management in their significant accounting estimates. There are inherent limitations in the Audit procedures described above and the further removed non-compliance with laws and regulations is from the events and transactions described in the financial statements, the less likely we would become aware of it. Also, the risk of not detecting a material misstatement due to fraud is higher than the risk of not detecting one due to error, as fraud may involve deliberate concealment by, for example, forgery or intentional misrepresentations, or through collusion.

In assessing the potential risks of material misstatement we obtained an understanding of; the entities operations, including the nature of its revenue sources and services and of its objectives and strategies to understand the classes of transactions, account balances, expected financial statement disclosures and business risks that may result in risks of material misstatement.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website at www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our Report of the Auditors.

Report of the Independent Auditors to the Members of
ESJ Restaurants Limited


Use of our report
This report is made solely to the company's members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the company's members those matters we are required to state to them in a Report of the Auditors 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.




Nicola Pearson FCA (Senior Statutory Auditor)
for and on behalf of Cooper Parry Group Limited
Statutory Auditor
CUBO Birmingham
3rd Floor
Two Chamberlain Square
Birmingham
West Midlands
B3 3AX

1 September 2024

ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Income Statement
for the year ended 31 December 2023

2023 2022
Notes £ £

Turnover 3 54,423,668 42,320,483

Cost of sales (19,348,078 ) (15,027,999 )
Gross profit 35,075,590 27,292,484

Administrative expenses (33,534,467 ) (27,315,494 )
Operating profit/(loss) 5 1,541,123 (23,010 )

Interest receivable and similar income 523 4,718
1,541,646 (18,292 )

Interest payable and similar expenses 6 (19,567 ) -
Profit/(loss) before taxation 1,522,079 (18,292 )

Tax on profit/(loss) 7 (725,484 ) (8,777 )
Profit/(loss) for the financial year 796,595 (27,069 )

ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Other Comprehensive Income
for the year ended 31 December 2023

2023 2022
Notes £ £

Profit/(loss) for the year 796,595 (27,069 )


Other comprehensive income - -
Total comprehensive income/(loss) for the year 796,595 (27,069 )

ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Balance Sheet
31 December 2023

2023 2022
Notes £ £ £ £
Fixed assets
Intangible assets 9 4,351,118 3,847,486
Tangible assets 10 4,719,357 4,190,373
Investments 11 13,750 11,250
9,084,225 8,049,109

Current assets
Stocks 12 241,240 164,847
Debtors 13 234,601 437,952
Cash at bank and in hand 4,084,368 5,122,596
4,560,209 5,725,395
Creditors
Amounts falling due within one year 14 4,070,329 5,420,727
Net current assets 489,880 304,668
Total assets less current liabilities 9,574,105 8,353,777

Provisions for liabilities 17 969,499 466,066
Net assets 8,604,606 7,887,711

Capital and reserves
Called up share capital 18 200 200
Retained earnings 19 8,604,406 7,887,511
Shareholders' funds 8,604,606 7,887,711

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors and authorised for issue on 29 August 2024 and were signed on its behalf by:





E S Jardine - Director


ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Statement of Changes in Equity
for the year ended 31 December 2023

Called up
share Retained Total
capital earnings equity
£ £ £
Balance at 1 January 2022 200 7,994,580 7,994,780

Changes in equity
Dividends - (80,000 ) (80,000 )
Total comprehensive loss - (27,069 ) (27,069 )
Balance at 31 December 2022 200 7,887,511 7,887,711

Changes in equity
Dividends - (79,700 ) (79,700 )
Total comprehensive income - 796,595 796,595
Balance at 31 December 2023 200 8,604,406 8,604,606

ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Cash Flow Statement
for the year ended 31 December 2023

2023 2022
Notes £ £
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash generated from operations 1 1,713,122 3,951,250
Interest paid (19,567 ) -
Tax paid 61,577 (486,198 )
Net cash from operating activities 1,755,132 3,465,052

Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of intangible fixed assets (883,088 ) -
Purchase of tangible fixed assets (1,627,849 ) (1,917,948 )
Purchase of fixed asset investments (2,500 ) -
Interest received 523 4,718
Net cash from investing activities (2,512,914 ) (1,913,230 )

Cash flows from financing activities
New loans in year 1,500,000 -
Loan repayments in year (1,500,000 ) -
Amount introduced by directors 79,700 80,000
Amount withdrawn by directors (280,446 ) (215,767 )
Equity dividends paid (79,700 ) (80,000 )
Net cash from financing activities (280,446 ) (215,767 )

(Decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents (1,038,228 ) 1,336,055
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 2 5,122,596 3,786,541

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 2 4,084,368 5,122,596

ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Notes to the Cash Flow Statement
for the year ended 31 December 2023

1. Reconciliation of profit/(loss) before taxation to cash generated from operations
2023 2022
£ £
Profit/(loss) before taxation 1,522,079 (18,292 )
Depreciation charges 1,478,321 1,331,110
Finance costs 19,567 -
Finance income (523 ) (4,718 )
3,019,444 1,308,100
Increase in stocks (76,393 ) (12,186 )
Decrease/(increase) in trade and other debtors 21,373 (57,593 )
(Decrease)/increase in trade and other creditors (1,251,302 ) 2,712,929
Cash generated from operations 1,713,122 3,951,250

2. Cash and cash equivalents

The amounts disclosed on the Cash Flow Statement in respect of cash and cash equivalents are in respect of these Balance Sheet amounts:

Year ended 31 December 2023
31/12/23 1/1/23
£ £
Cash and cash equivalents 4,084,368 5,122,596
Year ended 31 December 2022
31/12/22 1/1/22
£ £
Cash and cash equivalents 5,122,596 3,786,541


3. Analysis of changes in net funds

At 1/1/23 Cash flow At 31/12/23
£ £ £
Net cash
Cash at bank and in hand 5,122,596 (1,038,228 ) 4,084,368
5,122,596 (1,038,228 ) 4,084,368
Total 5,122,596 (1,038,228 ) 4,084,368

ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Notes to the Financial Statements
for the year ended 31 December 2023

1. Statutory information

ESJ Restaurants Limited is a private company, limited by shares , registered in Scotland. The company's registered number and registered office address can be found on the Company Information page.

The presentation currency of the financial statements is the Pound Sterling (£).


2. Accounting policies

Basis of preparing the financial statements
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Financial Reporting Standard 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland" and the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention.

Going Concern
The directors have considered the application of the going concern basis of accounting, and, in doing so they have considered the period from the date of this report until 31 December 2024. The directors have a reasonable expectation that the company has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus, they continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the annual financial statements.

Turnover
Turnover is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, excluding discounts, rebates, value added tax and other sales taxes.

Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised when the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the goods have transferred to the buyer, usually at the point of sale, the amount of revenue can be reliably measured, it is probable that the associated economic benefits will flow to the entity and the costs incurred or to be incurred in respect of the transactions can be reliably measured.

Franchise rights and fees
Franchise rights & fees, being the amounts paid on acquisition of restaurants, are being written off evenly over 20 years.

Tangible fixed assets
Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life.
Short leasehold - 5% on cost
Restaurant equipment - at varying rates on cost
Motor vehicles - at varying rates on cost
Computer equipment - at varying rates on cost

Stocks
Stocks are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value, after making due allowance for obsolete and slow moving items.

Cash at bank and in hand
Cash at bank and in hand are basic financial assets comprising of cash in hand, demand deposits with bank, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within current liabilities.

Taxation
Taxation for the year comprises current and deferred tax. Tax is recognised in the Income Statement, except to the extent that it relates to items recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity.

Current or deferred taxation assets and liabilities are not discounted.

Current tax is recognised at the amount of tax payable using the tax rates and laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date.


ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued
for the year ended 31 December 2023

2. Accounting policies - continued
Deferred tax
Deferred tax is recognised in respect of all timing differences that have originated but not reversed at the balance sheet date.

Timing differences arise from the inclusion of income and expenses in tax assessments in periods different from those in which they are recognised in financial statements. Deferred tax is measured using tax rates and laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the year end and that are expected to apply to the reversal of the timing difference.

Unrelieved tax losses and other deferred tax assets are recognised only to the extent that it is probable that they will be recovered against the reversal of deferred tax liabilities or other future taxable profits.

Hire purchase and leasing commitments
Rentals paid under operating leases are charged to profit or loss on a straight line basis over the period of the lease.

Pension costs and other post-retirement benefits
The company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the company's pension scheme are charged to profit or loss in the period to which they relate.

Impairment of fixed assets
At each reporting end date, the company reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible and intangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any). Where it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, the company estimates the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit to which the asset belongs.

Recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to each asset for which the estimates of future cash flows have not been adjusted.

If the recoverable amount of an asset (or cash-generating unit) is estimated to be less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset (or cash-generating unit) is reduced to its recoverable amount. An impairment loss is recognised immediately in profit or loss, unless the relevant asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case the impairment loss is treated as a revaluation decrease.

Recognised impairment losses are reversed if, and only if, the reasons for the impairment loss have ceased to apply. Where an impairment loss subsequently reverses, the carrying amount of the asset (or cash-generating unit) is increased to the revised estimate of its recoverable amount, but so that the increased carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognised for the asset (or cash-generating unit) in prior years. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognised immediately in profit or loss, unless the relevant asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case the reversal of the impairment loss is treated as a revaluation increase.

Holiday pay accrual
A liability is recognised to the extent of any unused holiday pay entitlement which is accrued at the Balance Sheet date and carried forward to future periods. This is measured at the undiscounted cost of the future holiday entitlement so accrued at the Balance Sheet date.

ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued
for the year ended 31 December 2023

2. Accounting policies - continued

Financial instruments
The Company only enters into basic financial instruments that result in the recognition of financial assets and liabilities like trade and other debtors and creditors, loans from banks and other third parties, loans to related parties and investments in non-puttable ordinary shares.

For financial assets measured at amortised cost, the impairment cost is measured at the difference between an asset's carrying amount and the present value of estimated cash flows discounted at the assets effective interest rate. If the financial asset has a variable interest rate, the discount rate for measuring any impairment loss is the current effective interest rate determined under the contract.

For assets measured at cost less impairment, the impairment loss is measured as the difference between an asset's carrying amount and best estimate, which is an approximation of the amount that the Company would receive for the asset if it were to be sold at the balance sheet date.

Creditors
Short term creditors are measured at the transaction price. Other financial liabilities, including bank loans, are measured initially at fair value, net of transaction costs, and are measured subsequently at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Finance costs
Finance costs are charged to the Profit and Loss Account over the term of the debt using the effective interest method so that the amount charged is at a constant rate on the carrying amount. Issue costs are initially recognised as a reduction in the proceeds of the associated capital instrument.

Dividends
Equity dividends are recognised when they legally become payable. Interim equity dividends are recognised when paid. Final equity dividends are recognised when approved by the shareholders at an annual general meeting.

Judgements in applying accounting policies and key sources of estimation uncertainty
In the process of applying the company's accounting policies, management are required to make certain estimates and judgements. The key estimates and judgements are as follows:

Depreciation and residual values
The director has reviewed the asset lives and associated residual values of all fixed asset classes, and has concluded that asset lives and residual values are appropriate.

Impairment of fixed assets
A review for indicators of impairment is carried out at each reporting date, with the recoverable amount being estimated where such indicators exist. Where the carrying value exceeds the recoverable amount, the asset is impaired accordingly. Prior impairments are also reviewed for possible reversal at each reporting date.

Holiday pay accrual
A liability is recognised to the extent of any unused holiday pay entitlement which is accrued at the Balance Sheet date and carried forward to future periods. This is measured at the undiscounted cost of the future holiday entitlement so accrued at the Balance Sheet date.

3. Turnover

The turnover and profit (2022 - loss) before taxation are attributable to the one principal activity of the company.

An analysis of turnover by class of business is given below:

2023 2022
£ £
Food 53,337,178 41,336,032
Non product 1,086,490 984,451
54,423,668 42,320,483

The whole of turnover is derived from the United Kingdom.

ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued
for the year ended 31 December 2023

4. Employees and directors
2023 2022
£ £
Wages and salaries 14,262,523 11,431,356
Social security costs 457,217 401,195
Other pension costs 347,249 322,475
15,066,989 12,155,026

The average number of employees during the year was as follows:
2023 2022

Production staff 1,247 1,036
Management Staff 39 36
1,286 1,072

2023 2022
£ £
Directors' remuneration 20,000 18,667
Directors' pension contributions to money purchase schemes 148,144 38,460

The number of directors to whom retirement benefits were accruing was as follows:

Money purchase schemes 2 2

5. Operating profit/(loss)

The operating profit (2022 - operating loss) is stated after charging:

2023 2022
£ £
Other operating leases 6,386,924 5,631,023
Depreciation - owned assets 1,098,865 988,200
Franchise rights amortisation 363,706 329,410
Franchise fees amortisation 15,750 13,500
Auditors' remuneration 17,988 7,588
Taxation compliance services 3,950 4,067
Other non- audit services 18,700 4,745

6. Interest payable and similar expenses
2023 2022
£ £
Bank loan interest 19,567 -

ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued
for the year ended 31 December 2023

7. Taxation

Analysis of the tax charge
The tax charge on the profit for the year was as follows:
2023 2022
£ £
Current tax:
UK corporation tax 101,650 (119,878 )
Prior year tax charge 120,401 -
Total current tax 222,051 (119,878 )

Deferred tax 503,433 128,655
Tax on profit/(loss) 725,484 8,777

UK corporation tax has been charged at 25% (2022 - 19%).

Reconciliation of total tax charge included in profit and loss
The tax assessed for the year is higher than the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK. The difference is explained below:

2023 2022
£ £
Profit/(loss) before tax 1,522,079 (18,292 )
Profit/(loss) multiplied by the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 25%
(2022 - 19%)

380,520

(3,475

)

Effects of:
Expenses not deductible for tax purposes (42,470 ) (17,087 )
Capital allowances in excess of depreciation (78,852 ) (99,315 )
Utilisation of tax losses (151,154 ) -
Adjustments to tax charge in respect of previous periods 120,401 -
Deferred tax (credit)/charge 503,433 128,654
Change of tax rate (6,394 ) -
Total tax charge 725,484 8,777

The Finance Act 2021 introduced an increase to the UK's main corporation tax rate from 19% to 25%, effective from 1 April 2023.

Deferred tax has been calculated at 25% (2022 - 25%).

8. Dividends
2023 2022
£ £
Ordinary A shares of £1 each
Interim 39,700 40,000
Ordinary B shares of £1 each
Interim 40,000 40,000
79,700 80,000

ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued
for the year ended 31 December 2023

9. Intangible fixed assets
Franchise Franchise
rights fees Totals
£ £ £
Cost
At 1 January 2023 6,483,507 215,000 6,698,507
Additions 823,088 60,000 883,088
At 31 December 2023 7,306,595 275,000 7,581,595
Amortisation
At 1 January 2023 2,743,396 107,625 2,851,021
Amortisation for year 363,706 15,750 379,456
At 31 December 2023 3,107,102 123,375 3,230,477
Net book value
At 31 December 2023 4,199,493 151,625 4,351,118
At 31 December 2022 3,740,111 107,375 3,847,486

10. Tangible fixed assets
Short Restaurant Motor Computer
leasehold equipment vehicles equipment Totals
£ £ £ £ £
Cost
At 1 January 2023 112,173 8,804,129 18,166 484,202 9,418,670
Additions 28,789 1,462,368 - 136,692 1,627,849
At 31 December 2023 140,962 10,266,497 18,166 620,894 11,046,519
Depreciation
At 1 January 2023 40,095 4,919,043 16,046 253,113 5,228,297
Charge for year 6,956 1,033,468 2,119 56,322 1,098,865
At 31 December 2023 47,051 5,952,511 18,165 309,435 6,327,162
Net book value
At 31 December 2023 93,911 4,313,986 1 311,459 4,719,357
At 31 December 2022 72,078 3,885,086 2,120 231,089 4,190,373

11. Fixed asset investments
Unlisted
investments
£
Cost
At 1 January 2023 11,250
Additions 2,500
At 31 December 2023 13,750
Net book value
At 31 December 2023 13,750
At 31 December 2022 11,250

Fixed asset investments consists of 13,750 (2022 - 11,250) ordinary shares of £1 each in Fries Holding Company Limited, a company registered in Guernsey. The investments are included in the accounts at cost.

ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued
for the year ended 31 December 2023

12. Stocks
2023 2022
£ £
Food stock 182,808 123,714
Paper stock 42,997 33,766
Non product stock 15,435 7,367
241,240 164,847

13. Debtors: amounts falling due within one year
2023 2022
£ £
Trade debtors 318 -
Other debtors 186,049 231,151
Corporation tax - 181,978
Prepayments 48,234 24,823
234,601 437,952

14. Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2023 2022
£ £
Trade creditors 1,544,963 1,287,131
Corporation Tax 101,650 -
Social security and other taxes 142,365 90,242
VAT 606,568 1,641,272
Other creditors 1,080,119 423,632
Directors' current accounts 272,089 472,835
Accrued expenses 322,575 1,505,615
4,070,329 5,420,727

15. Leasing agreements

Minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases fall due as follows:
2023 2022
£ £
Within one year 1,160,529 961,361
Between one and five years 3,930,102 2,775,385
In more than five years 10,423,563 5,656,867
15,514,194 9,393,613

Lease payments recognised as an expense during the year £6,386,924 (2022 - £5,631,023)

The Company's restaurant premises are leased from McDonalds Restaurants Limited under non-cancellable operating leases with expiry terms of more than five years. Rent is calculated as a percentage of sales above base, the above operating lease commitment only relates to base rent. Each restaurant pays its own unique base rent based on its circumstances, with the remainder of the rent being based on the performance of the restaurant.

ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued
for the year ended 31 December 2023

16. Financial instruments

Financial Assets 2023 2022
£    £   
Financial assets as an equity instrument 13,750 11,250
Financial assets that are debt instruments measured at amortised cost 4,270,735 5,353,747
4,284,485 5,364,997


Financial Liabilities 3,219,746 3,689,211
3,219,746 3,689,211

17. Provisions for liabilities
2023 2022
£ £
Deferred tax
Accelerated capital allowances 969,499 466,066

Deferred tax
£
Balance at 1 January 2023 466,066
Provided during year 503,433
Balance at 31 December 2023 969,499

18. Called up share capital

Allotted, issued and fully paid:
Number: Class: Nominal 2023 2022
value: £ £
150 Ordinary A £1 150 150
50 Ordinary B £1 50 50
200 200

19. Reserves
Retained
earnings
£

At 1 January 2023 7,887,511
Profit for the year 796,595
Dividends (79,700 )
At 31 December 2023 8,604,406

20. Related party disclosures

During the year, total dividends of £79,700 (2022 - £80,000) were paid to the directors .

As at the balance sheet date, the balance owed to the directors Mr E Jardine and Mrs A Jardine from the company amounts to £272,089 (2022 - £472,835).

This balance bears no fixed rate of interest and is repayable on demand.

ESJ RESTAURANTS LIMITED (REGISTERED NUMBER: SC391087)

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued
for the year ended 31 December 2023

21. Ultimate controlling party

The controlling party is E S Jardine.