Registered number:
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
COMPANY INFORMATION
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
CONTENTS
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
GROUP STRATEGIC REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
The Directors present their strategic report of the Group for the year ended 31 March 2024.
These financial statements set out the consolidated results for Cavendish Consulting Group Limited for the year ended 31 March 2024. The prior period comparative results reflect the results of the Group for the 24 weeks from the acquisition of Cavendish Consulting Limited on 14 October 2022 to the date of the prior period financial statements, 31 March 2023.
The Group offers a fully integrated solution for public affairs, corporate communications, digital engagement and creative.
In the year to 31 March 2024 the Group continued to consolidate its position as a market leading public affairs and political communications consultancy. The Group (in respect of a 12 month comparative as set out in the consolidated financial statements of the subsidiary Cavendish Consulting Limited) enjoyed organic fee growth, strengthened its fee-earner teams, attracted new blue-chip clients and won further industry awards. Fees billed were £12.3 million (2023: £11.7 million [12-month comparative as set out in the consolidated financial statements of the subsidiary Cavendish Consulting Limited]) and earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortisation and exceptional items were £2.02 million (2023: £1.51 million [12-month comparative as set out in the consolidated financial statements of the subsidiary Cavendish Consulting Limited]). On 21 March 2024 the Company purchased 632 Ordinary Shares of £1, 2.5% of its issued share capital, from a shareholder who has since retired from the business. On 29 March 2024 the Company issued 774 Ordinary Shares of £1 as part consideration for an acquisition (see below). The Company continues to be entirely owned and controlled by its management. Crowd Technologies Limited Crowd Technologies Limited has continued to develop its data intelligence and AI tool, Cavendish Insights; for the time being for internal use in adding value to client projects but with the future intention of offering paid subscriptions. In February 2023 ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) announced new charges for partner data access which meant that SoCrowd, the social media management platform offered by Crowd Technologies Limited since 2011, ceased to be commercially viable. SoCrowd was withdrawn from the external market, the clients were referred to a former competitor, from whom introduction fees of £414,340 were received, and SoCrowd was repurposed as a political listening tool for a future release of Cavendish Insights. On 28 March 2024 the subsidiary, Cavendish Consulting Limited, made a distribution in specie of the entire issued share capital of Crowd Technologies Limited at book value to Cavendish Consulting Group Limited. Acquisition of MCE (N.I.) Ltd On 28 March 2024, the Group (through Cavendish Consulting Limited) acquired MCE (N.I.) Ltd (‘MCE’), a Belfast-based public affairs and corporate communications agency with a satellite office in Dublin. Consideration was £1.8 million, which included loan notes that the vendors of MCE together exchanged for 3% of the enlarged issued share capital of Cavendish Consulting Group Limited. The transaction was part-funded with an additional £600,000 secured loan through Cavendish Consulting Group Limited acquisition funder. In the 14-month period to March 2024, MCE had turnover of £1.49 million and made operating profits of £290,000 (these results are not consolidated in these financial statements as the acquisition took place on 28 March 2024). The Directors believe that the acquisition of MCE will allow the Group to extend its services into the island of Ireland, strengthen the Group’s national corporate communications offer and deliver cost reductions through group synergies.
Page 1
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
GROUP STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Hive up of subsidiaries In June 2023 the Group rebranded and restructured to create and offer a fully integrated solution for public affairs, corporate communications, digital engagement and creative under the brand ‘Cavendish’. In the opinion of the Directors this simplification is proving beneficial in terms of the reputation and market positioning of the Cavendish Group and in the service it offers to clients. During the year ended 31 March 2024, the Group reviewed its contract relationships with customers. Certain customer contracts were renewed in Cavendish Consulting Limited to further strengthen the Cavendish brand. In preparing these financial statements, the Directors assessed whether the trade and assets of its subsidiaries had been hived up in, in substance, due to the customer contracts and relationships transferring over time to Cavendish Consulting Limited. The Directors have determined that at 31 March 2024, the trade of Liberty One Communications Limited had been hived up into Cavendish Consulting Limited.
The Board sees the principal risks and uncertainties facing the Group as follows:
Financial – the Group is price competitive and delivers its services at standard industry profit margins. Clients are typically blue-chip companies with a significant UK base, presenting minimal credit and foreign exchange risk and adhering to payment terms. Post-tax profits are the principal driver of liquidity and are a proxy for cash generation before debt service. A revolving credit facility is in place to fund the working capital cycle and cash flow fluctuations. The Group has managed its interest rate risk by fixing its borrowing rate through to October 2027. People – to deliver its services the Group requires high quality consultants across the political spectrum and at all levels. Recruitment, retention, training and employee wellbeing are high priorities. Retention is helped by 22 key employees being shareholders in the Company, which is 100% employee owned. Political – political change brings new public policy and with it uncertainty and risk in terms of the impact on the sectors in which the Group operates and the services it offers. However housing, Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) and renewable energy are welcome constants, and political change creates the opportunity for the Group to deliver advisory services to clients affected by it. Operational – the Group collects and uses personal data, delivers services that may include the use of AI, and faces the usual cybersecurity and business continuity threats. The Group invests in cloud-based technology infrastructure to manage its IT and business continuity risks, and has in place processes, policies, people and training to manage key compliance risks including the use of AI, the General Data Protection Regulation, the Bribery Act and the regulatory requirements of the public affairs sector including the PRCA Professional Charter and Public Affairs Code.
Page 2
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
GROUP STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
As the Company was dormant in the year ended 31 March 2022, the prior period Group results are representative from the acquisition date of Cavendish Consulting Limited on 14 October 2022 to 31 March 2023. Further information relating to the subsidiary entities for the 12 month period ended 31 March 2023 is disclosed in the financial statements of the company's subsidiary Cavendish Consulting Limited, company 03096503.
Financial key performance indicators for the Group are as follows:
This report was approved by the board and signed on its behalf.
Page 3
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
DIRECTORS' REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
The Directors present their report and the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2024.
The Directors who served during the year were:
The Directors are responsible for preparing the Group Strategic Report, the Directors' Report and the consolidated financial statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations.
In preparing these financial statements, the Directors are required to:
∙select suitable accounting policies for the Group's financial statements and then apply them consistently;
∙make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
∙prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Group will continue in business.
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 the Group and to 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 the Group and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
The Company's principal activity is a holding company.
The profit for the year, after taxation, amounted to £538,385 (2023 - loss 910,252).
During the year ended 31 March 2024, the Directors declared and paid a dividend of £100,215 (2023: £Nil).
On 9 May 2024, the Directors approved a final dividend in respect of the year ended 31 March 2024 of £150,006.
Certain matters are disclosed in the Strategic Report that would otherwise be disclosed in the Directors' Report.
Page 4
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
There are no post balance sheet events.
The auditor, James Cowper Kreston Audit, will be proposed for reappointment in accordance with section 485 of the Companies Act 2006.
This report was approved by the board and signed on its behalf.
Page 5
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
We have audited the financial statements of Cavendish Consulting Group Limited (the 'parent Company') and its subsidiaries (the 'Group') for the year ended 31 March 2024, which comprise the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income, the Consolidated Balance Sheet, the Company Balance Sheet, the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows, the Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity, the Company Statement of Changes in Equity and the related notes, 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).
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the Group in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the United Kingdom, including the Financial Reporting Council'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.
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 Group's or the parent Company's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.
Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the Directors with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.
Page 6
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED (CONTINUED)
The other information comprises the information included in the Annual Report other than the financial statements and our Auditor's Report thereon. The Directors are responsible for the other information contained within the Annual Report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of 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.
In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit:
∙the information given in the Group Strategic Report and the Directors' Report for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and
∙the Group Strategic Report and the Directors' Report have been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.
In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the Group and the parent Company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the Group Strategic Report or the Directors' Report.
Page 7
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED (CONTINUED)
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an Auditor's Report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these Group financial statements.
Because of the inherent limitations of an audit, there is a risk that we will not detect all irregularities, including those leading to a material misstatement in the financial statements or non-compliance with regulation. This risk increases the more that compliance with a law or regulation is removed from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, as we will be less likely to become aware of instances of non-compliance.
The risk is also greater regarding irregularities occurring due to fraud rather than error, as fraud involves intentional concealment, forgery, collusion, omission or misrepresentation. The specific procedures for this engagement that we designed and performed to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud, were as follows:
∙Enquiry of management and those charged with governance around actual and potential litigation and claims;
∙Reviewing minutes of meetings of those charged with governance;
∙Reviewing financial statement disclosures and testing to supporting documentation to assess compliance with applicable laws and regulations;
∙Performing audit work over the risk of management override of controls, including testing of journal entries and other adjustments for appropriateness, evaluating the business rationale of significant transactions outside the normal course of business and reviewing accounting estimates for bias;
∙Attending year-end audit meetings with the component auditor and inquiring of the component auditor if such component remains in compliance with laws and regulations and reviewing procedures carried out in respect of fraud assessment.
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 Auditor's Report.
Page 8
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED (CONTINUED)
This report is made solely to the Company's members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the Company's members those matters we are required to state to them in an Auditor's Report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Company and the Company's members, as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.
for and on behalf of
Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditor
Cumnor Hill
Oxfordshire
OX2 9GG
Page 9
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Page 10
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
REGISTERED NUMBER: 04883755
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 31 MARCH 2024
Page 11
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
REGISTERED NUMBER: 04883755
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (CONTINUED)
AS AT 31 MARCH 2024
The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the board and were signed on its behalf by:
The notes on pages 19 to 44 form part of these financial statements.
Page 12
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
REGISTERED NUMBER: 04883755
COMPANY BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 31 MARCH 2024
The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the board and were signed on its behalf by:
The notes on pages 19 to 44 form part of these financial statements.
Page 13
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
Page 14
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
COMPANY STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
COMPANY STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
Page 15
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Page 16
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Page 17
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED ANALYSIS OF NET DEBT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Page 18
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Cavendish Consulting Group Limited is a private limited company, incorporated and domiciled in England and Wales with registered number 04883755.
The Company's registered office is 8-10 Mansion House Place, London, England, EC4N 8BJ. The Group and Company's principal activity is public affairs, government relations, corporate communications, marketing and digital consultancy.
2.Accounting policies
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention unless otherwise specified within these accounting policies and in accordance with Financial Reporting Standard 102, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and the Republic of Ireland and the Companies Act 2006.
The preparation of financial statements in compliance with FRS 102 requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also requires Group management to exercise judgement in applying the Group's accounting policies (see note 3).
The Company has taken advantage of the exemption allowed under section 408 of the Companies Act 2006 and has not presented its own Statement of Comprehensive Income in these financial statements.
The financial statements are presented in pound Sterling, the functional currency of the Group and Company, and rounded to the nearest pound.
The following principal accounting policies have been applied:
The consolidated financial statements present the results of the Company and its own subsidiaries ("the Group") as if they form a single entity. Intercompany transactions and balances between group companies are therefore eliminated in full.
The consolidated financial statements incorporate the results of business combinations using the purchase method. In the Balance Sheet, the acquiree's identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities are initially recognised at their fair values at the acquisition date. The results of acquired operations are included in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income from the date on which control is obtained. They are deconsolidated from the date control ceases.
Page 19
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
2.Accounting policies (continued)
If it is not possible to distinguish between the research phase and the development phase of an internal project, the expenditure is treated as if it were all incurred in the research phase only.
Page 20
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
2.Accounting policies (continued)
The fair value of the award also takes into account non-vesting conditions. These are either factors beyond the control of either party (such as a target based on an index) or factors which are within the control of one or other of the parties (such as the Group keeping the scheme open or the employee maintaining any contributions required by the scheme). Where the terms and conditions of options are modified before they vest, the increase in the fair value of the options, measured immediately before and after the modification, is also charged to profit or loss over the remaining vesting period. Where equity instruments are granted to persons other than employees, profit or loss is charged with fair value of goods and services received.
Page 21
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
2.Accounting policies (continued)
Goodwill
Other intangible assets
All intangible assets are considered to have a finite useful life. If a reliable estimate of the useful life cannot be made, the useful life shall not exceed ten years.
Page 22
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
2.Accounting policies (continued)
Depreciation is charged so as to allocate the cost of assets less their residual value over their estimated useful lives, using the straight-line method.
Depreciation is provided on the following basis:
The assets' residual values, useful lives and depreciation methods are reviewed, and adjusted prospectively if appropriate, or if there is an indication of a significant change since the last reporting date.
Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing the proceeds with the carrying amount and are recognised in profit or loss.
Page 23
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
2.Accounting policies (continued)
Provisions are charged as an expense to profit or loss in the year that the Group becomes aware of the obligation, and are measured at the best estimate at the balance sheet date of the expenditure required to settle the obligation, taking into account relevant risks and uncertainties. When payments are eventually made, they are charged to the provision carried in the Balance Sheet.
The Group has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 “Basic Financial Instruments” of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.
Financial instruments are recognised in the Group's Balance Sheet when the Group becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.
Basic financial assets
Basic financial assets, which include trade and other receivables, cash and bank balances, are initially measured at their transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at their amortised cost using the effective interest method, less any provision for impairment, unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest.
Page 24
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
2.Accounting policies (continued)
Discounting is omitted where the effect of discounting is immaterial. The Group's cash and cash equivalents, trade and most other receivables due with the operating cycle fall into this category of financial instruments.
Impairment of financial assets
Financial assets are assessed for indicators of impairment at each reporting date.
Financial assets are impaired when events, subsequent to their initial recognition, indicate the estimated future cash flows derived from the financial asset(s) have been adversely impacted. The impairment loss will be the difference between the current carrying amount and the present value of the future cash flows at the asset(s) original effective interest rate.
If there is a favourable change in relation to the events surrounding the impairment loss then the impairment can be reviewed for possible reversal. The reversal will not cause the current carrying amount to exceed the original carrying amount had the impairment not been recognised. The impairment reversal is recognised in the profit or loss.
Financial liabilities
Financial liabilities and equity instruments are classified according to the substance of the contractual arrangements entered into. An equity instruments any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the Group after the deduction of all its liabilities.
Basic financial liabilities, which include trade and other payables, bank loans, other loans and loans due to fellow group companies are initially measured at their transaction price after transaction costs. When this constitutes a financing transaction, whereby the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Discounting is omitted where the effect of discounting is immaterial.
Debt instruments are subsequently carried at their amortised cost using the effective interest rate method.
Trade payables are obligations to pay for goods and services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of business from suppliers. Trade payables are classified as current liabilities if the payment is due within one year. If not, they represent non-current liabilities. Trade payables are initially recognised at their transaction price and subsequently are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. Discounting is omitted where the effect of discounting is immaterial.
Derecognition of financial instruments
Derecognition of financial assets
Financial assets are derecognised when their contractual right to future cash flow expire, or are settled, or when the Group transfers the asset and substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to another party. If significant risks and rewards of ownership are retained after the transfer to another party, then the Group will continue to recognise the value of the portion of the risks and rewards retained.
Derecognition of financial liabilities
Financial liabilities are derecognised when the Group's contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.
Page 25
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
2.Accounting policies (continued)
Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Estimates are based on historical experience and other assumptions that are considered reasonable in the circumstances. The actual amount of values may vary in certain instances from the assumption and estimates made. Changes will be recorded, with corresponding effect in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income, when, and if, better information is obtained. Information about assumptions and estimation uncertainties that have the most significant effect on recognition and measurement of assets, liabilities, income and expenses is provided below: Business combinations and goodwill The Company/Group accounts for business combinations using the acquisition method of accounting. The costs of the business combination are measured as the aggregate of the fair values of assets given, liabilities incurred or assumed and equity instruments issued. The determination of fair value requires Management to make estimations that include internal and market data. Any variation in estimation would have an impact on the resulting goodwill arising on consolidation. Goodwill is determined as the consideration paid, plus the fair value of any shareholding held prior to obtaining control, plus non-controlling interest and less the fair value of the identifiable assets and liabilities of the acquiree. Goodwill is amortised over the useful economic life of 10 years. Management review the useful economic life of goodwill annually and revise the estimate if conditions exist that indicate a change in the useful economic life of the acquired company. Hive up of subsidiaries In June 2023 the group rebranded and restructured to create and offer a fully integrated solution for public affairs, corporate communications, digital engagement and creative under the brand ‘Cavendish’. In the opinion of the Directors this simplification is proving beneficial in terms of the reputation and market positioning of the Cavendish Group and in the service it offers to clients. During the year ended 31 March 2024, the Group reviewed its contract relationships with customers. Certain customer contracts were renewed in Cavendish Consulting Limited to further strengthen the Cavendish brand. In preparing these financial statements, the Directors assessed whether the trade and assets of its subsidiaries had been hived up, in substance, due to the customer contracts and relationships transferring over time to Cavendish Consulting Limited. The Directors have determined that at 31 March 2024, the trade of Liberty One Communications Limited had been hived up into Cavendish Consulting Limited.
Page 26
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
3.Judgements in applying accounting policies (continued)
Management assesses its capitalised development expenditure and other intangible assets for impairment on an ongoing basis. In determining whether an impairment loss should be recorded in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income, Management makes judgements as to whether there is observable data indicating a measurable decrease in the estimated future cash flows of that intangible asset. Recoverability of amounts owed by group undertakings The Company considers amounts owed by group undertakings annually and estimates the provision for doubtful debts. In determining this, assumptions and estimates are made in relation to the likelihood of monies being recovered based on the plans of the Group. Fair value of contingent consideration Management recognise a liability at the year-end for future consideration payable in respect of acquired subsidiaries achieving pre-defined metrics. Management make judgements as to whether the pre-defined metrics will be achieved in the future and recognise a liability at the best estimate of fair value. Recognition of deferred tax asset The Group has £1,079,807 (2023: £1,321,411) of unutilised taxable losses at 31 March 2024. The Directors have not recognised a deferred tax asset at 31 March 2024 in respect of these taxable losses due to the inherent uncertainties over the point of recognition of future taxable profits in the Group subsidiary these relate to.
Analysis of turnover by country of destination:
Page 27
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Page 28
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Page 29
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Page 30
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
11.Taxation (continued)
Page 31
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
The Company has taken advantage of the exemption allowed under section 408 of the Companies Act 2006 and has not presented its own Statement of Comprehensive Income in these financial statements. The profit after tax of the parent Company for the year was £
Page 32
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Page 33
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Page 34
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Page 35
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Contingent consideration of £300,000 at 31 March 2024 represents future consideration payable on the acquisition of MCE (N.I.) Limited in the year ended 31 March 2024. This contingent consideration is payable in equal installments in 2025 and 2026.
See note 22 for details on other loans.
Page 36
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Page 37
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Page 38
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
On 28 March 2024, the Company entered into the following share transactions:
Issue of 142 Ordinary shares of £1 each for a total consideration of £66,172; Issue of 632 Ordinary shares of £1 each for a total consideration of £294,512; Buy-back of 632 Ordinary shares of £1 for a total purchase price of £142,200. Ordinary shares entitle each holder to one vote per share and the rights to participate in distributions.
Share premium account
Capital redemption reserve
Share-based payment reserve
Profit and loss account
Page 39
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Page 40
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
On 28 March 2024, the Company acquired a 100% direct shareholding in Crowd Technologies Limited as part of a group reorganisation for a total consideration of £287,911, to be paid through intercompany accounts. This business combination was acquired via a distribution in specie from Cavendish Consulting Limited. The consideration was equal to the book value of the net assets acquired.
Page 41
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
29.Business combinations (continued)
The Group operates a defined contributions pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the Group in an independently administered fund. The pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the Group to the fund and amounted to £151,329 (2023 - £65,581) . Contributions totalling £55,419 (2023 - £50,413) were payable to the fund at the balance sheet date and are included in creditors.
Page 42
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Page 43
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CAVENDISH CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Page 44
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|