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Registered number: 03581551









PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED









ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
COMPANY INFORMATION


Directors
N Wiles 
R Harding (appointed 14 August 2023)




Company secretary
Indigo Corporate Secretary Limited



Registered number
03581551



Registered office
1 The Boulevard
Shire Park

Welwyn Garden City

Hertfordshire

AL7 1EL




Independent auditors
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Statutory Auditors
Chartered Accountants

40 Clarendon Road

Watford

Hertforshire

WD17 1JJ





 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 

CONTENTS



Page(s)
Strategic Report
1 - 6
Directors' Report
7 - 9
Independent Auditors' Report to The Members of PayPoint Collections Limited
9 - 12
Statement of Comprehensive Income
13
Statement of Financial Position
14
Statement of Changes in Equity
15
Notes to the Financial Statements
16 - 28


 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
STRATEGIC REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Introduction
 
The directors present their Strategic Report for the year ended 31 March 2024.

The Company is a subsidiary of PayPoint plc and the following strategic review is aligned to the total group.

Business review
 
Expanded capabilities and partnership philosophy opening up new revenue opportunities

In Payments and Banking, we continue to enhanced our capabilities, across Open Banking, cards, cash and Direct Debit, have given us a strong platform to secure a record level of new business this year, with further clients secured in the Housing sector, our first major Charity client in East Anglian Air Ambulance and continued progress in energy, local and central government. We were also delighted to have secured the DVLA contract for International Driving Permits, which launched on 1 April 2024. 

Principal risks, financial risks and uncertainties
 
The Company is a subsidiary of PayPoint plc which manages risk and uncertainties from a central risk function. The risk function monitors risks and uncertainties from a wholistic group basis with risks and uncertainties common to all group companies. Accordingly this report refers to PayPoint plc's framework.

The risk management and internal control framework, as part of the wider governance framework, aims to provide assurance and confidence to stakeholders about PayPoint plc’s ability to deliver its objectives and manage principal risks. During the year, the Group Audit Committee received and reviewed risk information relating to the key risk areas below, together with details of actions taken and relevant mitigating controls, prior to advising the Board in this regard.

The Board then carried out its formal assessment and gave final approval to the list of principal risks which were disclosed in the annual accounts of PayPoint plc and are extracted in the section below:


Risk Trend & Appetite
Potential Impact
Mitigation Strategies
Status
Principal Risks
Market Risks
1
Competition and Markets


Trend = Increasing 


Appetite = Medium 
PayPoint’s markets and competitors continue to evolve. The decline in legacy business cash usage is expected to continue prompting the need for further business diversification. The current economic climate, of continually rising prices and lower spend levels by consumers, has continued from the previous financial year. The impact in particular markets, such as the Cards market, has been noticeable with transaction process volumes remaining subdued.

The Executive Board closely monitors consumer trends and spending behaviour, regularly re-assessing our markets, competitor activity, along with any opportunities to further de-risk its legacy business. We continue to develop our service offerings and to adapt to changes in consumer needs and behaviours, including strategic acquisitions or investments, where appropriate.
Risk is increasing as cost of living pressures have continued in the year causing changes in consumer activities, particularly in spending behaviours. This, along with the continued decline in cash legacy business has impacted income streams for certain parts of the business.
Page 1

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 

STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024


Risk Trend & Appetite
Potential Impact
Mitigation Strategies
Status
2
Emerging Technology


Trend = Stable 

Appetite = Medium 
As our markets continue to evolve, so does the technology supporting the service provision. Pressures to deliver new and innovative products remain and failure to keep pace with this technological change is a risk for the Group.
We continually review technological developments (including the evolution of AI) to understand how new technologies can be used to support and enhance our service offerings. The Executive Board closely monitors emerging technologies and the impact they may have on the Group. We also develop and implement our own innovative technology, where appropriate.
Risk is stable as Group acquisitions, investments and partnerships have helped to mitigate risks associated with emerging technologies. The ongoing programme of replatforming our digital proposition will facilitate the further expansion of our presence in digital payment markets. We continue to roll out the new, updated version of our retailer terminal – the PayPoint Mini.
Strategic Risks
3
IT Trans-formation 


Trend = Increasing 

Appetite = Medium 
Several significant IT projects are in our 3-year plan and the delivery of these projects will be key to delivering our business strategy and growth aspirations, along with platform resilience. 
The Executive Board is accountable for the management and delivery of these projects, with oversight from the Group Board.
Risk is increasing as several of these projects have been mobilised after the FY24 year end and will be delivered over the course of the next 2 – 3 years. 
Business Risks
4
Client Services  


Trend = Increasing 

Appetite = Medium 

Clients expectations in terms of service level standards and compliance are increasing as the business diversifies into new products/ channels (such as community banking). Client retention and the exposure to clients developing in house solutions as an alternative to our services remains an ongoing risk, along with customer concentration risk, such as in Parcels.
PayPoint builds and carefully manages strategic relationships with key clients, retailers, redemption partners and suppliers. We continually seek to improve and diversify services through new initiatives, products and technology and our involvement in new and innovative markets.
Risk is increasing. We continue to renew contracts and onboard new retailers, clients, merchants and redemption partners in line with expectations. We have built on our services and continue to encourage our clients to diversify and utilise more than one of our service provisions. Working with our clients to continue to under-stand their requirements and how best we can meet our clients needs remains a priority for  the Group.
5
Legal and Regulatory


Trend = Stable 

Appetite = Low 

PayPoint is required to comply with numerous contractual, legal, and continuously evolving regulatory requirements. Failure to anticipate and meet obligations may result  in fines, penalties, prosecution and reputational damage. Increased levels of regulatory supervision, the
Our Legal and Compliance teams work closely with the business on all legal and regulatory matters and adopt strategies to ensure PayPoint is appropriately protected and complies with regulatory requirements. The teams advise on all key contracts and legal matters and  oversee regulatory
Risk is stable. We continue to manage new legal and regulatory exposures through our risk  management framework and this framework has been rolled out across our Love2shop business following its acquisition in  2023. The two claims served on a number  of companies in the Group
Page 2

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 

STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024


Risk Trend & Appetite
Potential Impact
Mitigation Strategies
Status
5

implementation of consumer duty and the addition of new service offerings, such as open banking and PISP, have all increased the complexity of the regulatory environment in which we operate.
compliance, monitoring and reporting. Emerging regulations are incorporated into strategic planning, and we engage with regulators to ensure our frameworks are appropriate to support new products and initiatives.
in relation to the matters addressed by commitments made to Ofgem in 2021 in resolution of Ofgem’s competition concerns are still ongoing. The Group's position remains unchanged and we are confident that we will successfully defend these claims.
Business Risks 
6
People 

Trend = Increasing  

Appetite = Low
Failure to retain and attract key talent impacts many areas of our business. A key element of the 3 year plan is revenue growth, and we need to be confident we can attract/ retain those individuals who are instrumental in driving top line growth, along with individuals who will support the operational transformation of our business. Key person dependencies, at both executive and senior management levels, have been noted as a key risk.
The Executive Board continues to monitor this risk, with oversight from the Remuneration Committee. We continue to invest in our people, with a clear focus on retaining talent and key person dependency. PayPoint’s purpose, vision and values, are defined and embedded within the business, our expected behaviours and our review and monitoring processes. An employee forum comprising employees from across the business engages directly with the Executive Board on employee matters. 
Risk is increasing. The delivery of £100m EBITDA requires significant revenue growth over FY25 and FY26 and a key element of this is retaining and attracting key talent to support delivery of this growth. Employee engagement surveys remain positive and key actions around cost-of-living support, better employee interaction and flexible working have been implemented.
Operational Risks 
7
Cyber
Security 


Trend = Increasing  

Appetite = Low
Cyber security risk continues to grow due to the growing volume and ever-increasing sophistication of the nature of these attacks and our expanding digital footprint. Such attacks may significantly impact service delivery and data protection causing harm to PayPoint,  our customers and stakeholders. As the geographical instability has continued and increased over the last year, cyber-crime and its potential impact on our Group continues to increase as do our efforts to mitigate the likelihood of such an attack and in monitoring activities for potential instances of attack.
Recognising the importance and potential impact this risk poses to our business, the Executive Board regularly assesses PayPoint’s cyber security and data protection framework, and the Cyber Security and IT Sub-Committee of the Audit Committee maintains oversight. Our IT security framework is  comprehensive, with multiple security systems and controls deployed across the Group. We are ISO27001 and PCI DSS Level 1 certified, and systems are constantly monitored for attacks with response plans implemented and tested. Employees receive regular 
Risk is increasing because of the growing volume and sophistication of cyber-attacks, coupled with our expanding digital footprint. We continue to enhance our architecture, systems, processes and cyber monitoring and response capabilities. We regularly engage third parties to assess and assist on our cyber defences and strengthen our controls and have implemented strong monitoring capability across the Group. 
Page 3

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 

STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024


Risk Trend & Appetite
Potential Impact
Mitigation Strategies
Status
7


cyber security training, and awareness is promoted through phishing simulations and other initiatives. We have implemented tools to assist in quick identification of potential threats. We operate a robust incident response framework to  address potential and actual breaches in our estate or within our supply chain. We  engage with stakeholders, including suppliers on cyber-crime and proactively manage adherence with data protection requirements.

8
Business
Interruption

Trend = Increasing  

Appetite = Low  
Failure to provide a stable infrastructure environment or to promptly recover failed services following an incident can lead to loss of service provision, and financial and reputational loss. Interruptions may be caused by system failures, cyber-attack, failure by a third party or failure of an internal process. Recovery of the service can be hampered by lack of appropriate resilience levels.
PayPoint’s has developed a comprehensive and robust business continuity framework. This is reviewed by the Executive Board and the Cyber Security and IT sub-Committee of the Audit Committee maintains oversight of the framework and its implementation. Business continuity, disaster recovery and major incident response plans are maintained and tested with failover capabilities across third party data centres and the cloud. Systems are routinely upgraded with numerous change management processes deployed and resilience embedded where possible. Risk from supplier failure is managed through  contractual arrangements, alternative supplier  arrangements and business continuity plans.
Risk is increasing. System disruption is an inherent business risk. However, we recognise that the acquisition of Love2shop, our IT transformation projects and our expansion into different products contribute to an increasing complexity of our operations. Better staff training and retention has enhanced our ability to detect and recover from service issues.
9
Credit and Liquidity/ Treasury Management 
The Group has significant exposures to large clients/ retailers, redemption partners and other counterparties. We process high volumes of payments which are dependent upon effective operational controls.
PayPoint has effective credit and operational processes and controls. Retailers and counterparties are subject to ongoing credit reviews, and effective debt management processes are implemented. Settlement systems and 
Risk is stable. Cost of living pressures may impact our client and retail estate. However, we have robust monitoring and an increase in support payment processing in place to reduce  default rates and impacts. 
Page 4

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 

STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024


Risk Trend & Appetite
Potential Impact
Mitigation Strategies
Status
9

Trend = Stable

Appetite = Low
The Group also operates a number of debt/banking covenants and interest expenses which must be carefully managed. Cashflow management plays an increasingly important role in the Group’s operations. 
controls are continually assessed and enhanced with new technology. We have effective governance with oversight committees, delegated authorities and policies for key processes. Segregation of duties and approvals are implemented for all areas where fraud or material error may occur. Residual risk associated with potential default of gift card providers is mitigated through insurance.
The risk profile of our business operations remains stable. We continue to review and enhance our operational processes and controls, and relationships with our funding partners. We successfully refinanced to support the acquisition of Love2shop and our cash generation remains robust. We also successfully refinanced our facility in June 2024. Liquidity targets as planned for the year have been met.
10
Operational Delivery 


Trend = Stable  

Appetite = Low 

Delivery of key initiatives and strategic objectives, including sales and service delivery growth, is key to achieving the desired success levels anticipated for the group. Successful planning, forecasting and successful execution of all business function areas are key to ensuring operational delivery. Supply chain management is also a key factor in delivering our operational targets. Failure to manage this risk would hamper our business performance, impact our stakeholders, and lead to regulatory or legal sanctions.
The Executive Board has overall responsibility for delivering key initiatives implementing a robust control framework. The Executive Board have implemented a robust and effective reporting suite to ensure management of BAU activity is supported by timely and accurate business analysis. We continue to develop our Business Intelligence and Manage-ment information reporting capabilities to enhance, support and develop our management functions. Our project management methodology ensures projects are prioritised and governed effectively. Our existing  processes are continuously reviewed to make sure they are efficient and well  controlled.
Risk is stable. We continue to focus on effective integration of Love2shop into our business. We continue to develop new services and enhance existing capabilities.
Emerging Risks
11
ESG and Climate 


Trend = Stable  
We continue to focus on environmental, social and governance matters and recognise that our business needs to be environmentally responsible to create shared value for all stakeholders. PayPoint continues to seek ways to reduce carbon emissions and its
The CEO and the Executive Board have overall accountability for PayPoint’s climate and social responsibility agendas, and they recommend strategy to the Board. PayPoint aligns its business with reducing carbon emissions, and continually assesses its
Our ESG working group has implemented various measures as we embed low carbon strategies into our working practices and business strategy. The roll out of the PayPoint Mini, our new terminal, supports  reduction of our carbon footprint through production
Page 5

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 

STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024


Risk Trend & Appetite
Potential Impact 
Mitigation Strategies 
Status 
11

Appetite = Medium 

environmental impact. We continue to closely monitor the impacts on our business to ensure our revenue streams remain sustainable. 
approach to environmental risk and social responsibility, which are embedded in our decision-making processes. We have multiple policies and processes governing our social responsibility strategy and we continually assess and evolve our strategy and working practices to ensure the best outcomes for stakeholders and the environment.
of lower emissions. We continue the move toward electric cars for our company fleet, helping our field team to travel in more environmentally friendly ways. We run an employee forum and have implemented various measures as a result, such as cost of living support.

Financial key performance indicators
 
The Company’s revenue has decreased by 9.97% to £26,126(2023: £29,020k). This is due to lower energy transactions as energy contracts transferred to fellow subsidiary company.
Cost of revenue has decreased by 11.9% resulting in gross profit of £14,553
(2023: £15,887k)a decrease of 8.4%. Profit before tax has decreased by 1.0% this year to £13,567(2023: £13,707k).

Other key performance indicators
 
Due to the size and structure of the Company there were no relevant non-financial key performance indicators. 
The financial and non financial key performance indicators of PayPoint plc, which includes the Company, are discussed in the Group's annual report which does not form part of this report.


This report was approved by the board and signed on its behalf.



R Harding
Director

Date: 29 November 2024

Page 6

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

The directors present their report and the audited financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2024.

Principal activities

The Company’s principal activity is operating a payment collection and CashOut service.

Results and dividends

The profit for the year, after taxation, amounted to £10,175k (2023 - £11,661k).

During the year a dividend of £28,000k was declared and paid (2023: £6,000k).

Directors

The directors of the Company who were in office during the year and up to the date of signing the financial statements were:

N Wiles 
A Dale (resigned 6 December 2023)
R Harding (appointed 14 August 2023)

Future developments

Some of Group priorities for financial year 2024/25 impact the Company and include:

Payments & Banking Division

New business growth – build a more systematic approach to growing our client base in target sectors of Housing and Charities for our MultiPay platform.

Government services – expand range of services provided for central and local government, building on the DVLA International Driving Permit service win and the existing DWP Payment Exception Service.

Qualifying third party indemnity provisions

In addition to the indemnity provisions in the Articles of Association, the Company has entered into direct indemnity agreements with each of the Directors who served during the financial year. These indemnities constitute qualifying indemnities for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006 and remain in force for all current serving Directors at the date of approval of this report without any payment having been made under them. The Company also maintains directors’ and officers’ liability insurance which gives appropriate cover for any legal action brought against its Directors.

Matters covered in the Strategic Report

The Company has chosen in accordance with Companies Act 2006, s. 414C(11) to set out in the Company’s Strategic Report information required by the Large and Medium-sized Companies and Groups (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008, Sch. 7 to be contained in the directors’ report. It has done so in respect of financial risk management.

Post balance sheet events

There have been no significant events affecting the Company since the year end.

Page 7

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024


Statement of directors’ responsibilities in respect of the financial statements

The directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report and Financial Statements 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 prepared the financial statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards, comprising FRS 101 “Reduced Disclosure Framework”, and applicable law). 
 
Under company law, 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;

state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards, comprising FRS 101 have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements;

make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent; and

prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Company will continue in business.

The directors are responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

The directors are also 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.

The directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the Company’s website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

Directors’ confirmations

In the case of each director in office at the date the directors' report is approved:
 
so far as the director is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the Company's auditors are unaware, and

they have taken all the steps that they ought to have taken as a director in order to make themselves  aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the Company's auditors are aware of that information.

Independent auditors

The independent auditorsPricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Statutory Auditorswill be proposed for reappointment in accordance with section 485 of the Companies Act 2006.

Page 8

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

The financial statements on pages 13 to 28 were approved by the Board of Directors and signed on its behalf by.
 





R Harding
Director

Date: 29 November 2024

1 The Boulevard
Shire Park
Welwyn Garden City
Hertfordshire
AL7 1EL


Page 9

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 

Report on the audit of the financial statements

Opinion
In our opinion, PayPoint Collections Limited's financial statements: 

give a true and fair view of the state of the company’s affairs as at 31 March 2024 and of its profit for the year then ended; 

have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including FRS 101 “Reduced Disclosure Framework”, and applicable law); and 

have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.


We have audited the financial statements included within the Annual Report and Financial Statements (the “Annual Report”), which comprise: the statement of financial position as at 31 March 2024; the statement of comprehensive Income and the statement of changes in equity for the year then ended; and the notes to the financial statements, comprising material accounting policy information and other explanatory information.

Basis for opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (“ISAs (UK)”) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under ISAs (UK) are further described in the Auditors’ responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Independence
We remained independent of the company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, which includes the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements.

Conclusions relating to going concern 
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.

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.
 
However, because not all future events or conditions can be predicted, this conclusion is not a guarantee as to the company's ability to continue as a going concern.

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the directors with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.

Reporting on other information
The other information comprises all of the information in the Annual Report other than the financial statements and our auditors’ report thereon. The directors are responsible for the other information. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion or, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in this report, any form of assurance 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 an apparent material inconsistency or material misstatement, we are required to perform procedures to conclude whether there is a material misstatement of the financial statements or a material misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report based on these responsibilities.
Page 10

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED (CONTINUED)



With respect to the Strategic report and Directors' report, we also considered whether the disclosures required by the UK Companies Act 2006 have been included.

Based on our work undertaken in the course of the audit, the Companies Act 2006 requires us also to report certain opinions and matters as described below.

Strategic report and Directors' report
In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit, the information given in the Strategic report and Directors' report for the year ended 31 March 2024 is consistent with the financial statements and has been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.

In light of the knowledge and understanding of the company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we did not identify any material misstatements in the Strategic report and Directors' report.

Responsibilities for the financial statements and the audit

Responsibilities of the directors for the financial statements
As explained more fully in the statement of directors' responsibilities, the directors are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the applicable framework and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view. The directors are also responsible for such internal control as they determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

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

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 company and industry, we identified that the principal risks of non-compliance with laws and regulations related to breaches of data protection regulations and employment law, and we considered the extent to which non-compliance might have a material effect on the financial statements. We also considered those laws and regulations that have a direct impact on the financial statements such as Companies Act 2006 and UK tax legislation. We evaluated management’s incentives and opportunities for fraudulent manipulation of the financial statements (including the risk of override of controls), and determined that the principal risks were related to to posting inappropriate journal entries and management bias in accounting estimates. Audit procedures performed by the engagement team included:

Discussions with management and directors, including consideration of known or suspected instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations and fraud;

Challenging assumptions and judgements made by management in any significant accounting estimates and judgements and considering adequacy of any associated disclosures;

Page 11

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED (CONTINUED)


Identifying and testing journal entries, in particular any unusual or unexpected journals;

Reviewing minutes of meetings with those charged with governance; and

As required by ISA 240, an element of unpredictability was incorporated into our audit testing.


There are inherent limitations in the audit procedures described above. We are less likely to become aware of instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations that are not closely related to events and transactions reflected in the financial statements. Also, the risk of not detecting a material misstatement due to fraud is higher than the risk of not detecting one resulting from error, as fraud may involve deliberate concealment by, for example, forgery or intentional misrepresentations, or through collusion.

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

Use of this report
This report, including the opinions, has been prepared for and only for the company’s members as a body in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006 and for no other purpose. We do not, in giving these opinions, accept or assume responsibility for any other purpose or to any other person to whom this report is shown or into whose hands it may come save where expressly agreed by our prior consent in writing.

Other required reporting

Companies Act 2006 exception reporting  
Under the Companies Act 2006 we are required to report to you if, in our opinion: 

we have not obtained all the information and explanations we require for our audit; or

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

certain disclosures of directors’ remuneration specified by law are not made; or

the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns.


We have no exceptions to report arising from this responsibility. 




David Beer (Senior statutory auditor)
  
for and on behalf of
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Statutory Auditors
Chartered Accountants
40 Clarendon Road
Watford
Hertforshire
WD17 1JJ

29 November 2024

Page 12

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

2024
2023
Note
£000
£000

  

Revenue
 4 
26,126
29,020

Cost of revenue
  
(11,573)
(13,133)

Gross profit
  
14,553
15,887

Administrative expenses
  
(2,276)
(3,307)

Operating profit
 5 
12,277
12,580

Interest receivable and similar income
 9 
1,381
1,135

Interest payable and similar expenses
 10 
(91)
(8)

Profit before tax
  
13,567
13,707

Tax on profit
 11 
(3,392)
(2,046)

Profit for the financial year
  
10,175
11,661

Other comprehensive income
  
-
-

Total comprehensive income for the year
  
10,175
11,661

The notes on pages 16 to 28 form part of these financial statements.

Page 13

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
REGISTERED NUMBER: 03581551

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
AS AT 31 MARCH 2024

2024
2023
Note
£000
£000

  

Current assets
  

Debtors: amounts falling due after more than one year
 13 
7
8

Debtors: amounts falling due within one year
 13 
95,862
73,652

Cash at bank and in hand
 14 
23,883
19,461

  
119,752
93,121

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
 15 
(113,839)
(69,383)

Net current assets
  
 
 
5,913
 
 
23,738

  

  

  

Net assets
  
5,913
23,738


Capital and reserves
  

Called up share capital 
 18 
-
-

Profit and loss account
 19 
5,913
23,738

Total equity
  
5,913
23,738


The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the board and were signed on its behalf by: 




R Harding
Director

Date: 29 November 2024

The notes on pages 16 to 28 form part of these financial statements.

Page 14

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024


Called up share capital
Profit and loss account
Total equity

£000
£000
£000

At 1 April 2023
-
23,738
23,738


Comprehensive income for the year

Profit for the financial year
-
10,175
10,175
Total comprehensive income for the year
-
10,175
10,175


Contributions by and distributions to owners

Dividends
-
(28,000)
(28,000)


Total transactions with owners
-
(28,000)
(28,000)


At 31 March 2024
-
5,913
5,913



STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023


Called up share capital
Profit and loss account
Total equity

£000
£000
£000

At 1 April 2022
-
18,077
18,077


Comprehensive income for the year

Profit for the financial year
-
11,661
11,661
Total comprehensive income for the year
-
11,661
11,661


Contributions by and distributions to owners

Dividends
-
(6,000)
(6,000)


At 31 March 2023
-
23,738
23,738


The notes on pages 16 to 28 form part of these financial statements.

Page 15

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

1.


General information

PayPoint Collections Limited ('the company') is a private limited company by shares and incorporated, domiciled and registered in England in the United Kingdom, under the Companies Act 2006. The address of the registered office is given on the Company Information page and the nature of the Company's operations and its principal activity are set out in the Strategic Report.

2.Accounting policies

 
2.1

Basis of preparation of financial statements

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 101 'Reduced Disclosure Framework'  and the Companies Act 2006.
These financial statements are presented in Pounds Sterling rounded to thousands (£’000). The Pound Sterling is the currency of the primary economic environment in which the Company operates.

The preparation of financial statements in compliance with FRS 101 requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also requires management to exercise judgement in applying the Company's accounting policies (see note 3).

The following principal accounting policies have been applied consistently, other than where new policies have been adopted:

 
2.2

Financial Reporting Standard 101 - reduced disclosure exemptions

The Company has taken advantage of the following disclosure exemptions under FRS 101:
the requirements of IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures
the requirements of paragraphs 91-99 of IFRS 13 Fair Value Measurement
the requirements of the second sentence of paragraph 110 and paragraphs 113(a), 114, 115, 118, 119(a) to (c), 120 to 127 and 129 of IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers
the requirements of paragraphs 10(d), 10(f), 16, 38A, 38B, 38C, 38D, 40A, 40B, 40C, 40D, 111 and 134-136 of IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements
the requirements of IAS 7 Statement of Cash Flows
the requirements of paragraphs 30 and 31 of IAS 8 Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors
the requirements of paragraph 17 and 18A of IAS 24 Related Party Disclosures
the requirements in IAS 24 Related Party Disclosures to disclose related party transactions entered into between two or more members of a group, provided that any subsidiary which is a party to the transaction is wholly owned by such a member
the requirement of new but not yet effective IFRS's

This information is included in the consolidated financial statements of PayPoint plc for the year ended 31 March 2024 and these financial statements may be obtained from 1 The Boulevard, Shire Park, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, AL7 1EL.

Page 16

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.3

Going concern

At 31 March 2024, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of £23,883(2023: £19,461k). The Company has a resilient statement of financial position, with net assets of £5,913(2023: £23,738k) as at 31 March 2024, having made a profit for the year of £10,175(2023: £11,661k).
The Company meets its day-to-day working capital requirements through its cash reserves and group borrowings. The current economic conditions continue to create uncertainty, particularly over the level of demand for the company’s services. The Company’s forecasts and projections, taking account of reasonably possible changes in trading performance, show that the Company should be able to operate within the level of its current cash reserves and group borrowings. After making enquiries, the directors have a reasonable expectation that the Company has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. The Company therefore continues to adopt the going concern basis in preparing its financial statements.

 
2.4

Revenue

Revenue represents the value of services and goods delivered or sold to clients and retailers which is measured using the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, net of value added tax. Performance obligations are identified at contract inception and the revenue is recognised once the performance obligations are satisfied. 

Payments and banking revenue is recognised as performance obligations are satisfied which is usually at the point in time each transaction is processed. PayPoint is contracted as agent in the supply of payments and banking services and accordingly the commission earned from clients for processing transactions is recognised as revenue when each transaction is processed. Payments and banking revenue comprises:

Cash bill payments: customers of PayPoint’s clients can pay their bills (due to the client) over-the-counter at any of PayPoint’s retailer partners. PayPoint provides the technology for recording the payment of bills and transmission of that payment data to the client. PayPoint then collects bill payment funds from retailer partners and remits those funds to clients. 

Cash top-ups: customers of PayPoint’s clients can top up their mobiles over-the-counter at any of PayPoint’s retailer partners. 

Cash through to digital: PayPoint provides the physical network of retail locations for consumers to convert cash into electronic funds with online organisations. Consumers pay for a ‘pin on receipt’ code in any of PayPoint’s retail locations and then can use that value online with their chosen digital brand or service across a comprehensive portfolio of banking, e-commerce, gaming and loyalty card partners.

Digital payments: CashOut enables the rapid dispersal of funds through secure digital channels, including the Payment Exception Service which is run for the Department for Work and Pensions by a fellow subsidiary company, delivering payments to those without access to a standard bank account.

 
2.5

Interest income

Interest income is recognised in profit or loss using the effective interest method.

Page 17

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.6

Finance costs

Finance costs are charged to profit or loss 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.

 
2.7

Pensions

Defined contribution pension plan

The Company operates a defined contribution plan for its employees. A defined contribution plan is a pension plan under which the Company pays fixed contributions into a separate entity. Once the contributions have been paid the Company has no further payment obligations.

The contributions are recognised as an expense in profit or loss when they fall due. Amounts not paid are shown in accruals as a liability in the Statement of Financial Position. The assets of the plan are held separately from the Company in independently administered funds.

 
2.8

Current and deferred taxation

The tax expense represents the amount payable in respect of the year under review based on the taxable profit for the year and deferred tax. Taxable profit differs from net profit as reported in the Statement of Comprehensive Income because it excludes items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and items that are not taxable or deductible. 

The Company’s liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the Statement of Financial Position date. 

Deferred tax is provided in full on taxable temporary differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts. Deferred tax is calculated using tax rates that have been substantively enacted by the Statement of Financial Position date. Deferred tax assets are recognised on deductible temporary differences to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the tax will be realised.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for taxable temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries and interests in joint ventures, except where the Company is able to control the reversal of the temporary difference and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each balance sheet date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available to allow all or part of the asset to be recovered. Deferred tax is charged or credited in the Statement of Profit or Loss, except when it relates to items charged or credited directly to equity, in which case the deferred tax is recorded in equity.


 
2.9

Debtors

Trade receivables are initially recorded at fair value and represent the amount of commission due from clients or fees from retailers for which payment has not been received, less an allowance for doubtful accounts that is estimated based on factors such as the credit rating of the customer, historical trends, the current economic environment and other information.

Page 18

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.10

Cash and cash equivalents

For the purpose of the Statement of Financial Position, cash and cash equivalents comprise cash at bank and in hand and short term deposits with original maturity of less than three months and are subject to insignificant risk of changes in value. Cash consists of both corporate cash and clients’ funds and retailers’ deposits. 
Corporate cash consists of cash available to PayPoint for its daily operations. Clients’ funds and retailers’ deposits consists of cash collected on behalf of clients from retailers, but not yet transferred to clients and is held in PayPoint’s bank accounts. The Company also holds funds as a trustee for client beneficiaries, in these circumstances the funds are not included in cash and cash equivalents on the Statement of Financial Position.

 
2.11

Creditors

Trade payables are initially recorded at fair value and represent the value of invoices received from suppliers for purchases of goods and services for which payment has not been made.
Settlement payables represent gross transaction values received by retail agents that have not yet been settled to clients.


 
2.12

Financial instruments

Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognised when the Company becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

Financial assets and financial liabilities are initially measured at fair value. Transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition or issue of financial assets or financial liabilities are added to or deducted from fair value on initial recognition. 

Financial assets

Financial assets are classified depending on their nature and purpose and the classification is determined at the time of initial recognition.
Trade and other receivables that have fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market are classified as loans and receivables. Loans and receivables are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less any impairment. Interest income is recognised by applying the effective interest rate, except for short term receivables when the recognition of interest would be immaterial.
The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortised cost of a debt instrument and of allocating income over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash receipts (including all fees paid or received that form an integral part of the effective interest rate, transaction costs and other premiums or discounts) through the expected life of the debt instrument, or, where appropriate, a shorter period, to the net carrying amount on initial recognition.
 

Equity instruments

An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of an entity after
Page 19

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)


2.12
Financial instruments (continued)

deducting all of its liabilities. Equity instruments issued by the Company are recognised at the proceeds received, net of direct issue costs.

Impairment of financial assets

Financial assets are assessed for indicators of impairment at each Statement of Financial Position date. Financial assets are impaired where there is objective evidence that, as a result of one or more events that occurred after initial recognition of the financial asset, the estimated future cash flows of the investment have been affected.
For certain categories of financial asset, such as trade receivables, assets that are assessed not to be impaired individually are, in addition, assessed on a collective basis. Objective evidence of impairment for a portfolio of receivables includes past experience of collecting payments and the ageing of the receivables.
For financial assets carried at amortised cost, the amount of the impairment is the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows, discounted at the financial assets original effective interest rate.
The carrying amount of the financial asset is reduced by the impairment loss directly for all financial assets with the exception of trade receivables. A provision is created for trade receivables and any amounts that are subsequently written off are written off against the provision. Any changes in the provision are recognised in the Statement of Profit or Loss.
If in a subsequent period the amount of the impairment loss decreases and this decrease can be related objectively to events occurring after the impairment was recognised, the previously recognised impairment loss is reversed through the profit or loss to the extent the carrying amount of the investment at the date the impairment is reversed does not exceed what the amortised cost would have been had the impairment not been recognised.
Financial assets are derecognised when and only when the contractual rights to the cash flows expire or when it transfers substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the asset to another entity. On derecognition of a financial asset, the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the sum of the consideration received and receivable is recognised in the Statement of Comprehensive Income.

Financial liabilities

Financial liabilities including borrowing costs are initially measured at fair value, net of transaction costs, and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Financial liabilities are derecognised when, and only when the Company’s obligations are discharged, cancelled or they expire.

 
2.13

Dividends

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

Page 20

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

3.


Judgements in applying accounting policies and key sources of estimation uncertainty

In the application of the Company's accounting policies, the directors are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an on-going basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised if the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects both current and future periods.

Critical judgement: recognition of cash and cash equivalents

The nature of bill payments services means that PayPoint collects and holds funds on behalf of clients as those funds pass through the settlement process and also retains retailer deposits as security for those collections.

A critical judgement in this area is whether clients’ funds and retailers’ deposits are recognised in the Statement of Financial Position. This includes evaluating:

existence of a binding agreement clearly identifying the beneficiary of the funds

the identification, ability to allocate and separability of funds

identification of the holder of those funds at any point in time

whether PayPoint bears the risk credit risk 

Where there is a binding agreement specifying that PayPoint holds funds on behalf of the client (i.e. acting in the capacity of a trustee) and those funds have been separately identified as belonging to that beneficiary, the cash and the related liability are not included in the Statement of Financial Position.  In all other situations the cash and corresponding liability are recognised in the Statement of Financial Position.


4.


Revenue

The whole of the revenue is attributable to the Company‘s payment collection and CashOut.

All turnover arose within the United Kingdom.


5.


Operating profit

The operating profit is stated after charging:

2024
2023
£000
£000

Defined contribution pension cost
36
33

Page 21

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

6.


Auditors' remuneration

During the year, the Company obtained the following services from the Company's auditors:


2024
2023
£000
£000

Fees payable to the Company's auditors for the audit of the Company's financial statements
80
80

The Company has taken advantage of the exemption not to disclose amounts paid for non-audit services as these are disclosed in the consolidated accounts of the parent Company.


7.


Employees

Staff costs were as follows:


2024
2023
£000
£000

Wages and salaries
738
661

Social security costs
108
97

Cost of defined contribution scheme
36
33

882
791


The company does not have any of its own employees (2023: no) by virtue of the fact that contracts of employment of employees within the Group are in the name of PayPoint Network Limited, a fellow subsidiary. PayPoint Network Limited makes a recharge to the company of all costs of staff assigned to deal with company's affairs.


8.


Directors' remuneration

The directors below received total remuneration of £2,452k (2023: £1,851k) from the parent company during the year. The Company has not been charged for services provided to the Company by parent company. Following amounts would have been charged to the Company.
The allocation to the Company is based on a time basis.


2024
2023
£000
£000



N Wiles
122
235

A Dale
33
135

R Harding
43
-

198
370

Page 22

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

9.


Interest receivable and similar income

2024
2023
£000
£000


Interest receivable from group companies
1,372
633

Bank interest receivable
9
502

1,381
1,135


10.


Interest payable and similar expenses

2024
2023
£000
£000


Loans from group undertakings
91
8

91
8


11.


Tax on profit


2024
2023
£000
£000

Corporation tax


Current tax on profits for the year
3,391
2,603

Adjustments in respect of previous periods
-
(559)


3,391
2,044


Total current tax
3,391
2,044

Deferred tax


Origination and reversal of timing differences
1
1

Changes to tax rates
-
1

Total deferred tax
1
2


Tax on profit
3,392
2,046
Page 23

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
 
11.Tax on profit (continued)


Factors affecting tax charge for the year

The tax assessed for the year is the same as (2023 - lower than) the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 25% (2023 - 19%). The differences are explained below:

2024
2023
£000
£000


Profit before tax
13,567
13,707


Profit before tax multiplied by standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 25% (2023 - 19%)
3,392
2,604

Effects of:


Adjustments in respect of previous periods
-
(559)

Revaluation of deferred tax due to rate change
-
1

Total tax charge for the year
3,392
2,046


Factors that may affect future tax charges

The income tax charge is based on the UK statutory rate of corporation tax for the year of 25% (2023: 19%). Deferred tax has been calculated using the enacted tax rates that are expected to apply when the liability is settled, or the asset realised. During the prior financial year, an increase in the main rate of UK corporation tax from 19% to 25% with effect from 1 April 2023 was enacted. Deferred tax has been calculated based on the rate applicable at the date timing differences are expected to reverse.


12.


Dividends

2024
2023
£000
£000


Dividends
28,000
6,000

28,000
6,000

Page 24

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

13.


Debtors

2024
2023
£000
£000

Amounts falling due after more than one year

Deferred tax asset
7
8

7
8


2024
2023
£000
£000

Amounts falling due within one year

Trade debtors
1,537
1,127

Amounts owed by group undertakings
10,295
24,245

Other debtors
54
46

Items in the course of collection
83,559
47,757

Prepayments and accrued income
417
477

95,862
73,652


Amounts owed by group undertakings are unsecured, interest bearing 6.76% per annum (2023: between 3% & 3.5%), have no fixed date of repayment and are repayable on demand.


14.


Cash at bank and in hand

2024
2023
£000
£000

Bank current accounts
652
1,264

Clients' funds and retailers' deposits
23,231
18,197

23,883
19,461


Page 25

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

15.


Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year

2024
2023
£000
£000

Amounts owed in respect of clients' funds' and retailers' deposits
23,231
18,197

Trade creditors
2,154
1,982

Settlement payables
83,559
47,757

Amounts owed to group undertakings
2,783
-

Corporation tax
835
101

Other taxation and social security
462
392

Other creditors
1
20

Accruals and deferred income
814
934

113,839
69,383


Amounts owed to group undertakings are unsecured, interest bearing 6.76% per annum (2023: between 3% & 3.5%), have no fixed date of repayment and are repayable on demand.


16.


Financial instruments

2024
2023
£000
£000

Financial assets


Financial assets measured at fair value
23,883
19,461

Financial assets measured at amortised cost
95,445
73,175

119,328
92,636


Financial liabilities


Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost
(111,728)
(67,956)


The Company’s financial instruments comprise cash and various items such as trade receivables, trade payables and other payables, which arise directly from the Company’s operations. The Company's policy is not to undertake speculative trading in financial instruments.

Page 26

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

17.


Deferred taxation




2024
2023


£000

£000






At beginning of year
8
10


Charged to profit or loss
(1)
(2)



At end of year
7
8

The deferred tax asset is made up as follows:

2024
2023
£000
£000


Accelerated capital allowances
7
8

7
8


18.


Called up share capital

2024
2023
£000
£000
Allotted, called up and fully paid



2 (2023 - 2) Ordinary shares of £1.00 each
-
-



19.


Profit and loss account

Retained earnings represents cumulative profits and losses, net of dividends paid and other adjustments.


20.


Contingent liabilities

In FY24, a number of companies in the PayPoint Group, including PayPoint Collections Limited, received two claims relating to issues addressed by commitments accepted by Ofgem in November 2021 as a resolution of Ofgem’s concerns raised in its Statement of Objections received by the PayPoint Group in September 2020. The Ofgem resolution did not include any infringement findings.
The first claim was served by Utilita Energy Limited and Utilita Services Limited (subsequently renamed Luxion Sales Limited) (“Utilita”) on 16 June 2023. The second claim was served by Global-365 plc and Global Prepaid Solution Limited (“Global 365”) on 18 July 2023. A first Case Management Conference (CMC) was held on 31 October 2023 at the Competition Appeal Tribunal relating to these claims. The focus of the first CMC was to agree disclosure and a timetable for proceedings. A second CMC was held on 26 April 2024 to agree further disclosure and the appointment of expert witnesses for all parties. Both claims have been listed for a joint trial at the Competition Appeal Tribunal starting on 10 June 2025.
The Group’s position remains unchanged: it is confident that it will successfully defend the claim by Utilita,
Page 27

 
PAYPOINT COLLECTIONS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

20.Contingent liabilities (continued)

which does not provide any clear evidence to support the cause of action or the amount claimed, and also that it will successfully defend the claim by Global 365, which fundamentally misunderstands the energy market and the relationships between the relevant Group companies and the major energy providers, whilst also over-estimating the opportunity available, if any, for the products offered by Global 365. Consequently, no accounting provision has been made for these claims.
The Group will continue to update the market on a quarterly basis as part of its financial reporting cycle.


21.


Pension commitments

The Company pension cost is a recharged cost by PayPoint Network Limited, a fellow subsidiary, which operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of PayPoint Network Limited in an independently administered fund. The pension cost recharge represents contributions payable by the Company to the fund and amounted to £36(2023: £33k). There were unpaid pension contributions at the reporting date of £nil (2023: £nil)


22.


Controlling party

The immediate parent undertaking and ultimate controlling party of the Company is PayPoint plc.

The smallest and largest group to consolidate these financial statements is that headed by PayPoint plc. Copies of the PayPoint plc consolidated financial statements can be obtained from the Company Secretary at 1 The Boulevard, Shire Park, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, AL7 1EL. No other group financial statements include the results of the Company.

Page 28