Company registration number 09433287 (England and Wales)
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
COMPANY INFORMATION
Directors
J M James
M J Titterton
M J Clayton
Company number
09433287
Registered office
Hazel Court
Midland Way
Barlborough
Chesterfield
Derbyshire
England
S43 4FD
Auditor
BHP LLP
2 Rutland Park
Sheffield
S10 2PD
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
CONTENTS
Page
Strategic report
1 - 4
Directors' report
5 - 6
Independent auditor's report
7 - 9
Group statement of comprehensive income
10
Group balance sheet
11
Company balance sheet
12
Group statement of changes in equity
13
Company statement of changes in equity
14
Group statement of cash flows
15
Notes to the financial statements
16 - 34
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
STRATEGIC REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
- 1 -

The directors present the strategic report for the year ended 26 March 2024.

 

Introduction

The principal activity of the group continued to be that of the retailing of convenience foods, confectionery, news, tobacco, soft drinks, alcohol and food to go.

 

The group currently operates thirty nine stores as of December 2024 with a strong presence in both the convenience sector and travel interchanges which combined are the largest contributor to the groups profits.

Business review

Despite the group facing significant cost increases during the year, it was able to deliver a profitable EBITDA and continues to deliver an improvement on financial performance over recent years. Group trading EBITDA for the year totalled £587k.

 

The group acknowledges the cost-of-living increase on so many of our customers and as such have implemented a strategy of offering price marked product showing value to the customer. This has helped drive volume in turnover, whilst providing a competitive price to our customers during difficult financial times. The strategy allowed the group to grow turnover and profitability in multiple commodity groups to minimise the impact of the declining tobacco market.

 

During the year the group successfully managed to dispose of several loss-making stores that had become commercial unviable due to the lasting impact of Covid on trade at these locations. This has helped bolster the stability of the group and further store EBITDA projections for the upcoming financial year.

 

During the year the group reinvested profits to refurbish existing sites, further invest in its food to go offer, which has helped to establish a sustainable business model for the long term. The stores that the group transitioned to the Costcutter brand in the prior year delivered significant and sustained sales growth due to the improved range of product and recognition of the Costcutter brand.

 

The directors are pleased to announce a new long-term retail agreement with Costcutter Stores. The agreement will allow the group to take advantage of the Costcutter/Nisa supply chain providing its customers with a wide range of ambient and chilled product at competitive prices.

 

With the help of Costcutter stores the group will rebrand the existing sites to the Costcutter brand and in various transport locations embrace the format of Costcutter on the go sites. As part of the rebranding, stores will undergo refurbishment with revised product ranges to provide an improved convenience offer for our customers.

 

The group acknowledges that it will need to mitigate the impact of rising costs in the upcoming year, with the increase in salary costs and business rates. To continue the strong financial performance, the group will invest in technology to ensure savings and efficiencies through the store and head office operations.

 

Further stores have been identified as becoming uncommercially viable due to the change in customer shopping trends and an increase in anticipated costs. These will be disposed of during the upcoming financial year.

 

Despite anticipated cost increases and uncertainty due to the ban on disposal vapes coming into force in June 2025, the directors expect the growth from the rebranding and refurbishment of stores to allow the group to continue to deliver a profit at an EBITDA level for the upcoming year. Store EBITDA forecasted for the year ending March 2025 is £1.7m.

Given the current year performance, the investment anticipated within the group and forecasts prepared by the management, directors believe the group has a very positive future.

The thanks of the directors are expressed to store colleagues, the support office team and all key stakeholders in supporting the company through the challenging times of recent years and continued support in returning the group to a profitable position.

 

JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
- 2 -
Principal risks and uncertainties

 

 

2024

2023

Sales

£36m

£36m

Gross Profit

£7.8m

£7.3m

Gross Profit %

21.6%

20.6%

The group monitors its financial position through several key performance indicators ('KPIs'). The principal KPIs for the year are as shown above.

 

Sales have remained consistent despite the reduction in store numbers. Sales growth through ambient and fresh commodities due to price mark strategy and refurbishment of stores to Costcutter. Sales in tobacco and news related products are in decline which is consistent with the sector.

 

The increase gross profit margin is due to a shift in sales mix with a reduction in tobacco product and an increase in fresh and ambient product that returns a higher margin. Volume increase in price marked product that typically carries a higher margin than non-price marked equivalents.

 

The directors monitor other KPI’s on a store-by-store basis, looking at performance on a weekly basis through a review of top line category performance year on year and against budget. Store Managers are then targeted on improving performance through active selling to drive footfall and sales growth.

 

The directors actively review stock levels across stores and monitor individual line performance to ensure there is sufficient stock to service the demands of customers but not to the detriment of the cash performance of the business.

 

Cash is a key performance metric, with weekly cashflow forecasts produced and carefully monitored.

Financial/ operational risks

 

Explanation

Mitigation

Competition

The group operates in a highly competitive retail market, and may not be able to operate profitably in the long term from each site.

The retail industry is highly

competitive, particularly with

respect to price, product selection

and quality, store location, inventory

and customer service.

The group competes with a diverse

group of retailers of varying sizes.

These competitors include single

site retailers, supermarkets,

convenience stores and traditional

newsagents.

Trading performance for individual

stores may suffer from long term

decline or the opening of new

competitors near to our sites.

The group works extremely hard

and remains alert to local trading

conditions to ensure that it

responds rapidly and appropriately

to the types of competition

encountered locally by each of our

outlets.

The group actively monitors each

store's performance and seeks to

sell underperforming stores whilst

they still have an economic value.

The group regularly assesses its

product mix, pricing and

promotional offers to attract new

customers, whilst retaining its

existing customer base.

Cash flow

The group’s cash flows from operations may be negatively affected if it is not successful in

managing stock levels or levels of stock shrinkage.

To be profitable the group must

maintain sufficient stock levels to

meet its customers’ demands

without allowing those levels to

increase to an extent such that the

costs impact on the financial results

The group monitors stock

levels through its EPOS systems

and continues to deploy good

practices based on the directors'

knowledge of the industry.

The group, like other retailers

experiences stock shrinkage and

adopts measures that monitor and

control the problem. Some level of

stock loss is an unavoidable cost of

doing business.

JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
- 3 -

National Living Wage

In order to reduce the cost of benefits to the exchequer the chancellor increased the minimum wage in April 2025.

The group will need to recoup the

additional cost of this government

measure.

The cost of implementation will be

mitigated by a combination of a

reduction in staffing hours and stricter

budgetary control in all expenditure.

Cash flow management

Cash flow management of the group is important as it competes in a highly competitive market. Profit and cash management are vital to

service the group’s financial commitments.

The group must monitor cash

regularly to ensure sufficient cash is

available to service debt

requirements and be able to

respond to the changing face of the

retail landscape.

The group manages the cash

performance through production of

weekly cash flow forecasts and

reviewing against previous

forecasts. A long-term strategic

cash model is maintained to assess

the future demands of cash and

regular senior management

meetings are held to explore

options to bring in or reduce cash

expenditure. The directors maintain

good and close relations with its

bankers, shareholders and

Bestway, its wholesale partner.

Section 172 Statement

The directors have acted in a way they consider, in good faith, promotes the success of the group for the benefit of its members as a whole, and in doing so has given regard (amongst other matters) to:

 

Business relationships

The need to build strong longstanding relationships within the franchise agreement with key suppliers, and with our customers, is paramount to the success of the group and its longevity. We continually develop strategies to maintain and grow our offering and customer base and to further improve relationships with suppliers.

 

Our people

The group is committed to being a responsible business. Our behaviour is aligned with the expectations of our people. customers, shareholders communities and society as a whole. People are the heart of delivering great customer service in our stores. For our business to continue to succeed we continually manage our people's performance and develop and bring through talent which ensuring we operate as efficiently as possible.

 

Disabled employees

The group gives full and fair applications for employment by disabled persons. In the event of employees becoming disabled whilst in the service of the group, every effort is made to continue their employment by transfer to alternative duties, if required, and by provision of such retraining as is appropriate.

 

Employee involvement

The group maintains an intranet site that provides employees with information on matters of concern to them as employees. Regular meetings are held between operational management and employees to allow free flow of information and ideas within the team.

 

Culture and values

The group recognises the importance of having the right corporate culture. Our long term success is dependent on achieving strategic goals the right and fair way, so we look after the best interests of our shareholders, customers, people, suppliers and other stakeholders.

 

Shareholders

The management team are committed and openly engaged with the group's shareholders through regular board meetings and effective dialogue. The shareholders are actively engaged in understanding our strategy, culture, people and the performance of our shared objectives for the short, mid and longer terms.

JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
- 4 -

On behalf of the board

J M James
Director
26 March 2025
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
DIRECTORS' REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
- 5 -

The directors present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 26 March 2024.

Principal activities

The principal activity of the company and group continued to be retail convenience stores.

Results and dividends

The results for the year are set out on page 10.

No ordinary dividends were paid. The directors do not recommend payment of a further dividend.

Directors

The directors who held office during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were as follows:

J M James
M J Titterton
M J Clayton
Disabled persons

Applications for employment by disabled persons are always fully considered, bearing in mind the aptitudes of the applicant concerned. In the event of members of staff becoming disabled, every effort is made to ensure that their employment within the group continues and that the appropriate training is arranged. It is the policy of the group that the training, career development and promotion of disabled persons should, as far as possible, be identical to that of other employees.

Employee involvement

The group's policy is to consult and discuss with employees, through unions, staff councils and at meetings, matters likely to affect employees' interests.

 

Information about matters of concern to employees is given through information bulletins and reports which seek to achieve a common awareness on the part of all employees of the financial and economic factors affecting the group's performance.

 

There is no employee share scheme at present, but the directors are considering the introduction of such a scheme as a means of further encouraging the involvement of employees in the company's performance.

Auditor

The auditor, BHP LLP, is deemed to be reappointed under section 487(2) of the Companies Act 2006.

JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
- 6 -
Statement of directors' responsibilities

The directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations.

 

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

 

 

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

Statement of disclosure to auditor

So far as each person who was a director at the date of approving this report is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the auditor of the company is unaware. Additionally, the directors individually have taken all the necessary steps that they ought to have taken as directors in order to make themselves aware of all relevant audit information and to establish that the auditor of the company is aware of that information.

Medium-sized companies exemption

This report has been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies entitled to the medium-sized companies exemption.

On behalf of the board
J M James
Director
26 March 2025
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
TO THE MEMBERS OF JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
- 7 -
Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of James Convenience Retail Limited (the 'parent company') and its subsidiaries (the 'group') for the year ended 26 March 2024 which comprise the group statement of comprehensive income, the group balance sheet, the company balance sheet, the group statement of changes in equity, the company statement of changes in equity, the group statement of cash flows and notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion the financial statements:

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the group and parent company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the directors' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

 

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the group's and 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.

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. The directors are responsible for the other information 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.

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of our audit:

JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MEMBERS OF JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
- 8 -
Matters on which we are required to report by exception

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the group and the parent company and their environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the strategic report or the directors' report.

 

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:

Responsibilities of directors

As explained more fully in the directors' responsibilities statement, the directors are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, the directors are responsible for assessing the parent company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the parent company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

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

The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is detailed below.

Our approach to identifying and assessing the risks of material misstatement in respect of irregularities, including fraud and non-compliance with laws and regulations, was as follows:

JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MEMBERS OF JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
- 9 -

We assessed the susceptibility of the company's financial statements to material misstatement, including obtaining an understanding of how fraud might occur, by:

 

To address the risk of fraud through management bias and override of controls, we:

 

In response to the risk of irregularities and non-compliance with laws and regulations, we designed procedures which included, but were not limited to:

There are inherent limitations in our audit procedures described above. The more removed that laws and regulations are from financial transactions, the less likely it is that we would become aware of non-compliance. Auditing standards also limit the audit procedures required to identify non-compliance with laws and regulations to enquiry of the directors and other management and the inspection of regulatory and legal correspondence, if any.

 

Material misstatements that arise due to fraud can be harder to detect than those that arise from error as they may involve deliberate concealment or collusion.

A further description of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at: https://www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's report.

Use of our report

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

Paul Winwood
For and on behalf of
26 March 2025
BHP LLP
Chartered Accountants
Statutory Auditor
2 Rutland Park
Sheffield
S10 2PD
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
GROUP STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
- 10 -
2024
2023
Notes
£000
£000
Turnover
3
36,314
35,634
Cost of sales
(28,486)
(28,305)
Gross profit
7,828
7,329
Administrative expenses
(10,069)
(9,376)
Other operating income
1,949
1,868
Operating loss
4
(292)
(179)
Interest payable and similar expenses
8
(165)
(147)
Loss before taxation
(457)
(326)
Tax on loss
9
115
25
Loss for the financial year
(342)
(301)
Loss for the financial year is all attributable to the owners of the parent company.
Total comprehensive income for the year is all attributable to the owners of the parent company.
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
GROUP BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 26 MARCH 2024
26 March 2024
- 11 -
2024
2023
Notes
£000
£000
£000
£000
Fixed assets
Goodwill
10
1,226
1,746
Other intangible assets
10
104
210
Total intangible assets
1,330
1,956
Tangible assets
11
615
461
Investments
12
1
1
1,946
2,418
Current assets
Stocks
14
2,055
2,121
Debtors
15
1,865
1,858
Cash at bank and in hand
1,223
3,046
5,143
7,025
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
16
(6,292)
(8,101)
Net current liabilities
(1,149)
(1,076)
Total assets less current liabilities
797
1,342
Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year
17
(1,712)
(1,914)
Provisions for liabilities
Deferred tax liability
20
-
0
1
-
(1)
Net liabilities
(915)
(573)
Capital and reserves
Called up share capital
22
1
1
Profit and loss reserves
(916)
(574)
Total equity
(915)
(573)

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions relating to medium-sized groups.

The financial statements were approved by the board of directors and authorised for issue on 26 March 2025 and are signed on its behalf by:
26 March 2025
J M James
Director
Company registration number 09433287 (England and Wales)
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
COMPANY BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 26 MARCH 2024
26 March 2024
- 12 -
2024
2023
Notes
£000
£000
£000
£000
Fixed assets
Intangible assets
10
104
210
Tangible assets
11
460
373
Investments
12
2,758
2,758
3,322
3,341
Current assets
Stocks
14
1,007
1,013
Debtors
15
5,839
6,483
Cash at bank and in hand
239
240
7,085
7,736
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
16
(4,368)
(4,766)
Net current assets
2,717
2,970
Total assets less current liabilities
6,039
6,311
Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year
17
(1,712)
(1,914)
Net assets
4,327
4,397
Capital and reserves
Called up share capital
22
1
1
Profit and loss reserves
4,326
4,396
Total equity
4,327
4,397

As permitted by s408 Companies Act 2006, the company has not presented its own profit and loss account and related notes. The company’s loss for the year was £70,561 (2023 - £21,091 loss).

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions relating to medium-sized companies.

The financial statements were approved by the board of directors and authorised for issue on 26 March 2025 and are signed on its behalf by:
26 March 2025
J M James
Director
Company registration number 09433287 (England and Wales)
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
GROUP STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
- 13 -
Share capital
Profit and loss reserves
Total
£000
£000
£000
Balance at 27 March 2022
1
(273)
(272)
Year ended 26 March 2023:
Loss and total comprehensive income
-
(301)
(301)
Balance at 26 March 2023
1
(574)
(573)
Year ended 26 March 2024:
Loss and total comprehensive income
-
(342)
(342)
Balance at 26 March 2024
1
(916)
(915)
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
COMPANY STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
- 14 -
Share capital
Profit and loss reserves
Total
£000
£000
£000
Balance at 27 March 2022
1
4,417
4,418
Year ended 26 March 2023:
Loss and total comprehensive income for the year
-
(21)
(21)
Balance at 26 March 2023
1
4,396
4,397
Year ended 26 March 2024:
Profit and total comprehensive income
-
(70)
(70)
Balance at 26 March 2024
1
4,326
4,327
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
GROUP STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
- 15 -
2024
2023
Notes
£000
£000
£000
£000
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash (absorbed by)/generated from operations
27
(1,690)
2,695
Interest paid
(165)
(147)
Income taxes refunded
-
0
1
Net cash (outflow)/inflow from operating activities
(1,855)
2,549
Investing activities
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
(296)
(196)
Proceeds from disposal of tangible fixed assets
6
379
Net cash (used in)/generated from investing activities
(290)
183
Financing activities
Proceeds from borrowings
160
-
Repayment of borrowings
(188)
(23)
Repayment of bank loans
(190)
(190)
Payment of finance leases obligations
(2)
-
Net cash used in financing activities
(220)
(213)
Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents
(2,365)
2,519
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
2,295
(224)
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
(70)
2,295
Relating to:
Cash at bank and in hand
1,223
3,046
Bank overdrafts included in creditors payable within one year
(1,293)
(751)
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
- 16 -
1
Accounting policies
Company information

James Convenience Retail Limited (“the company”) is a private limited company domiciled and incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is Hazel Court Midland Way, Barlborough, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, England, S43 4FD.

 

The group consists of James Convenience Retail Limited and all of its subsidiaries.

1.1
Accounting convention

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with FRS 102 “The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland” (“FRS 102”) and the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the company. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £000.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.

The company is a qualifying entity for the purposes of FRS 102, being a member of a group where the parent of that group prepares publicly available consolidated financial statements, including this company, which are intended to give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit or loss of the group. The company has therefore taken advantage of exemptions from the following disclosure requirements for parent company information presented within the consolidated financial statements:

1.2
Business combinations

In the parent company financial statements, the cost of a business combination is the fair value at the acquisition date of the assets given, equity instruments issued and liabilities incurred or assumed, plus costs directly attributable to the business combination. The excess of the cost of a business combination over the fair value of the identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities acquired is recognised as goodwill. The cost of the combination includes the estimated amount of contingent consideration that is probable and can be measured reliably, and is adjusted for changes in contingent consideration after the acquisition date. Provisional fair values recognised for business combinations in previous periods are adjusted retrospectively for final fair values determined in the 12 months following the acquisition date. Investments in subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates are accounted for at cost less impairment.

 

Deferred tax is recognised on differences between the value of assets (other than goodwill) and liabilities recognised in a business combination accounted for using the purchase method and the amounts that can be deducted or assessed for tax, considering the manner in which the carrying amount of the asset or liability is expected to be recovered or settled. The deferred tax recognised is adjusted against goodwill or negative goodwill.

JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 17 -
1.3
Basis of consolidation

The consolidated group financial statements consist of the financial statements of the parent company James Convenience Retail Limited together with all entities controlled by the parent company (its subsidiaries) and the group’s share of its interests in joint ventures and associates.

 

All financial statements are made up to 26 March 2024. Where necessary, adjustments are made to the financial statements of subsidiaries to bring the accounting policies used into line with those used by other members of the group.

 

All intra-group transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between group companies are eliminated on consolidation. Unrealised losses are also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of an impairment of the asset transferred.

Subsidiaries are consolidated in the group’s financial statements from the date that control commences until the date that control ceases.

1.4
Going concern

At 26 March 2024 the group's balance sheet showed shareholders' funds of deficit £915,000 (2023: £573,000). The directors are mindful that at 26 March 2024 the group had net currents liabilities of £1,149,000 (2023: net current liabilities of £1,076,000).

 

Despite the group facing significant cost increases during the year, it was able to deliver a profitable EBITDA and continues to deliver an improvement on financial performance over recent years.

 

The group acknowledges the cost-of-living increase on so many of our customers and as such have implemented a strategy of offering price marked product showing value to the customer. This has helped drive volume in turnover, whilst providing a competitive price to our customers during difficult financial times. The strategy allowed the group to grow turnover and profitability in multiple commodity groups to minimise the impact of the declining tobacco market.

 

During the year the group successfully managed to dispose of several loss-making stores that had become commercial unviable due to the lasting impact of Covid on trade at these locations. This has helped bolster the stability of the group and further store EBITDA projections for the upcoming financial year.

 

The directors are pleased to announce a new long-term retail agreement with Costcutter Stores. The agreement will allow the group to take advantage of the Costcutter/Nisa supply chain providing its customers with a wide range of ambient and chilled product at competitive prices.

 

With the help of Costcutter stores the group will rebrand the existing sites to the Costcutter brand and in various transport locations embrace the format of Costcutter on the go sites. As part of the rebranding, stores will undergo refurbishment with revised product ranges to provide an improved convenience offer for our customers.

 

The stores that the group has already transitioned to the Costcutter brand in the prior years have delivered significant and sustained sales growth due to the improved range of product and recognition of the Costcutter brand and therefore the directors are optimistic on future year performance.

 

The board have prepared detailed profit and cashflow for the year ending March 2025 and beyond and showing the group continuing to generate an EBITDA profit for the year ended 26 March 2025 The forecasts are based on the director’s experience of trading during the last 9 months.

The forecasts show that the group is expected to operate within existing borrowing facilities. On the basis of the forecasts the directors are satisfied that the group is able to meet its liabilities as they fall due for the foreseeable future and such as the financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis.

JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 18 -
1.5
Turnover

Turnover is recognised at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable for goods and services provided in the normal course of business, and is shown net of VAT and other sales related taxes. The fair value of consideration takes into account trade discounts, settlement discounts and volume rebates.

Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised when the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the goods have passed to the buyer (usually on dispatch of the goods), the amount of revenue can be measured reliably, it is probable that the economic benefits associated with the transaction will flow to the entity and the costs incurred or to be incurred in respect of the transaction can be measured reliably.

Other operating income

The group has various other income streams which are complementary to operating convenience store such as commissions, rental income and news delivery charges. News delivery charges are shown net of expenses. Such income is recognised in period in which it is earned.

1.6
Intangible fixed assets - goodwill

Goodwill on consolidation, representing the excess of the fair value of the consideration given over the fair value of the separable net assets acquired, is capitalised on the balance sheet and amortised over its estimated useful economic life of 9 years.

 

The 9 year life was initially based on the period of the associated franchise agreements with Conviviality Retail Plc at the heart of the businesses acquired. The directors have reassessed the nature and useful life of goodwill on entering the new wholesale supply agreement with Bestway Retail Limited. The directors have concluded that the useful life does not need to be revised as the carrying value of goodwill will be written down to £Nil before the end of the new supply agreement under the current basis.

 

The directors consider each acquisition separately for the purpose of determining the amortisation period of any goodwill that arises. Provision is made for any impairment.

1.7
Intangible fixed assets other than goodwill

Intangible assets acquired separately from a business are recognised at cost and are subsequently measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses.

 

Intangible assets acquired on business combinations are recognised separately from goodwill at the acquisition date where it is probable that the expected future economic benefits that are attributable to the asset will flow to the entity and the fair value of the asset can be measured reliably; the intangible asset arises from contractual or other legal rights; and the intangible asset is separable from the entity.

Trademarks and franchise agreements
9 years straight line
1.8
Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.

Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:

Leasehold improvements
10%-20% straight line
Fixtures and fittings
20-25% straight line
Computer equipment
25% straight line
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 19 -

The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the profit and loss account.

1.9
Fixed asset investments

Investments in subsidiaries are shown at cost less provision for impairment. If an impairment loss is identified this is recognised immediately in the profit and loss account and the value of the investment is reduced accordingly.

Entities in which the group has a long term interest and shares control under a contractual arrangement are classified as jointly controlled entities.

1.10
Impairment of fixed assets

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

 

The carrying amount of the investments accounted for using the equity method is tested for impairment as a single asset. Any goodwill included in the carrying amount of the investment is not tested separately for impairment.

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

 

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

1.11
Stocks

Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell.

At each reporting date, an assessment is made for impairment. Any excess of the carrying amount of stocks over its estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell is recognised as an impairment loss in profit or loss.

1.12
Cash and cash equivalents

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

1.13
Financial instruments

The group has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ 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 and 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.

JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 20 -
Basic financial assets

Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method 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. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.

Impairment of financial assets

Financial assets, other than those held at fair value through profit and loss, are assessed for indicators of impairment at each reporting end date.

 

Financial assets are impaired where there is objective evidence that, as a result of one or more events that occurred after the initial recognition of the financial asset, the estimated future cash flows have been affected. If an asset is impaired, the impairment loss is the difference between the carrying amount and the present value of the estimated cash flows discounted at the asset’s original effective interest rate. The impairment loss is recognised in profit or loss.

 

If there is a decrease in the impairment loss arising from an event occurring after the impairment was recognised, the impairment is reversed. The reversal is such that the current carrying amount does not exceed what the carrying amount would have been, had the impairment not previously been recognised. The impairment reversal is recognised in profit or loss.

Classification of financial liabilities

Financial liabilities and equity instruments are classified according to the substance of the contractual arrangements entered into. An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the group after deducting all of its liabilities.

Basic financial liabilities

Basic financial liabilities, including creditors, bank loans and loans from fellow group companies, are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.

 

Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method.

 

Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of business from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Other financial liabilities

Debt instruments that do not meet the conditions in FRS 102 paragraph 11.9 are subsequently measured at fair value through profit or loss. Debt instruments may be designated as being measured at fair value through profit or loss to eliminate or reduce an accounting mismatch or if the instruments are measured and their performance evaluated on a fair value basis in accordance with a documented risk management or investment strategy.

Derecognition of financial liabilities

Financial liabilities are derecognised when the group's contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.

JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 21 -
1.14
Equity instruments

Equity instruments issued by the group are recorded at the proceeds received, net of transaction costs. Dividends payable on equity instruments are recognised as liabilities once they are no longer at the discretion of the group.

1.15
Taxation

The tax expense represents the sum of the tax currently payable and deferred tax.

Current tax

The tax currently payable is based on taxable profit for the year. Taxable profit differs from net profit as reported in the profit and loss account because it excludes items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and it further excludes items that are never taxable or deductible. The group’s liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting end date.

Deferred tax

Deferred tax liabilities are generally recognised for all timing differences and deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that they will be recovered against the reversal of deferred tax liabilities or other future taxable profits. Such assets and liabilities are not recognised if the timing difference arises from goodwill or from the initial recognition of other assets and liabilities in a transaction that affects neither the tax profit nor the accounting profit.

 

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each reporting end 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 calculated at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the period when the liability is settled or the asset is realised. Deferred tax is charged or credited in the profit and loss account, except when it relates to items charged or credited directly to equity, in which case the deferred tax is also dealt with in equity.

1.16
Employee benefits

The costs of short-term employee benefits are recognised as a liability and an expense, unless those costs are required to be recognised as part of the cost of stock or fixed assets.

 

The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received.

 

Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the company is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.

1.17
Retirement benefits

Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due.

1.18
Leases

Leases are classified as finance leases whenever the terms of the lease transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to the lessees. All other leases are classified as operating leases.

 

Assets held under finance leases are recognised as assets at the lower of the assets fair value at the date of inception and the present value of the minimum lease payments. The related liability is included in the balance sheet as a finance lease obligation. Lease payments are treated as consisting of capital and interest elements. The interest is charged to profit or loss so as to produce a constant periodic rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability.

JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 22 -

Rentals payable under operating leases, including any lease incentives received, are charged to profit or loss on a straight line basis over the term of the relevant lease except where another more systematic basis is more representative of the time pattern in which economic benefits from the leased asset are consumed.

Rental income from operating leases is recognised on a straight line basis over the term of the relevant lease. Initial direct costs incurred in negotiating and arranging an operating lease are added to the carrying amount of the leased asset and recognised on a straight line basis over the lease term.

2
Judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty

In the application of the group’s accounting policies, the directors are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount 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.

 

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

Key sources of estimation uncertainty

 

Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets

Determining whether goodwill or intangible assets are impaired requires an estimation of the value in use of each of the cash-generating units to which goodwill and intangible assets have been allocated. The value in use calculation requires the entity to estimate the future cash flows expected to arise from the cash-generating unit and a suitable discount rate in order to calculate present value. In assessing the carrying value of goodwill the directors have taken into account events up to the date of approving the financial statements.

 

Investments

The group reviews the carrying value of fixed asset investments for indications of impairment at each period end. If indicators of impairment exist, the carrying value of the asset is subject to further testing to determine whether its carrying value exceeds its recoverable amount. This process will usually involve the estimation of future cash flows which are likely to be generated by the asset.

 

Recoverability of amounts due from group companies

Amounts due from group companies are recognised to the extent that they are judged recoverable. Director reviews are performed to estimate the level of reserves required for irrecoverable debt. Provisions are made specifically where recoverability is uncertain and are charged to the profit and loss account in the period in which the impairment arises. Impairment is applied where events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts are not expected to be recoverable.

3
Turnover and other revenue

The whole of the group's turnover is attributable to its principal activity, and arose within the United Kingdom.

 

2024
2023
£000
£000
Turnover analysed by class of business
Sales of goods
36,314
35,634
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
3
Turnover and other revenue
(Continued)
- 23 -
2024
2023
£000
£000
Other revenue
Commissions received
729
704
Rental income arising from investment properties
23
122
Sundry income
37
221
Delivery income
114
415
4
Operating loss
2024
2023
£000
£000
Operating loss for the year is stated after charging/(crediting):
Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets
166
148
Depreciation of tangible fixed assets held under finance leases
1
-
Loss/(profit) on disposal of tangible fixed assets
5
(105)
Amortisation of intangible assets
626
437
Operating lease charges
1,191
1,277
5
Auditor's remuneration
2024
2023
Fees payable to the company's auditor and associates:
£000
£000
For audit services
Audit of the financial statements of the group and company
18
18
Audit of the financial statements of the company's subsidiaries
33
30
51
48
For other services
Taxation compliance services
11
11
6
Employees

The average monthly number of persons (including directors) employed by the group and company during the year was:

Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
Number
Number
Number
Number
Office management
21
34
21
23
Sales and customer services
270
268
144
148
Total
291
302
165
171
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
6
Employees
(Continued)
- 24 -

Their aggregate remuneration comprised:

Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£000
£000
£000
£000
Wages and salaries
5,222
4,889
3,157
2,980
Social security costs
356
329
247
233
Pension costs
93
81
66
59
5,671
5,299
3,470
3,272
7
Directors' remuneration
2024
2023
£000
£000
Remuneration for qualifying services
272
269
Company pension contributions to defined contribution schemes
8
8
280
277

The number of directors for whom retirement benefits are accruing under defined contribution schemes amounted to 3 (2023 - 3).

Remuneration disclosed above includes the following amounts paid to the highest paid director:
2024
2023
£000
£000
Remuneration for qualifying services
129
129
Company pension contributions to defined contribution schemes
1
1
8
Interest payable and similar expenses
2024
2023
£000
£000
Interest on bank overdrafts, bank loans and loans from related parties
137
126
Interest on finance leases and hire purchase contracts
2
-
Other interest
26
21
Total finance costs
165
147
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
- 25 -
9
Taxation
2024
2023
£000
£000
Deferred tax
Origination and reversal of timing differences
(115)
(25)

The actual credit for the year can be reconciled to the expected credit for the year based on the profit or loss and the standard rate of tax as follows:

2024
2023
£000
£000
Loss before taxation
(457)
(326)
Expected tax credit based on the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 25.00% (2023: 19.00%)
(114)
(62)
Tax effect of expenses that are not deductible in determining taxable profit
12
63
Tax effect of income not taxable in determining taxable profit
-
0
(1)
Change in unrecognised deferred tax assets
-
0
7
Fixed asset differences
146
(18)
Deferred tax not recognised (tax losses)
(66)
(37)
Chargeable gains
-
0
12
Remeasurement of deferred tax for changes in tax rates
(96)
11
Other tax adjustments, reliefs and transfers
3
-
Taxation credit
(115)
(25)
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
- 26 -
10
Intangible fixed assets
Group
Goodwill
Trademarks and franchise agreements
Total
£000
£000
£000
Cost
At 27 March 2023 and 26 March 2024
5,846
1,043
6,889
Amortisation and impairment
At 27 March 2023
4,100
833
4,933
Amortisation charged for the year
520
106
626
At 26 March 2024
4,620
939
5,559
Carrying amount
At 26 March 2024
1,226
104
1,330
At 26 March 2023
1,746
210
1,956
Company
Trademarks and franchise agreements
£000
Cost
At 27 March 2023 and 26 March 2024
1,043
Amortisation and impairment
At 27 March 2023
833
Amortisation charged for the year
106
At 26 March 2024
939
Carrying amount
At 26 March 2024
104
At 26 March 2023
210
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
- 27 -
11
Tangible fixed assets
Group
Leasehold improvements
Fixtures and fittings
Computer equipment
Total
£000
£000
£000
£000
Cost
At 27 March 2023
531
861
-
0
1,392
Additions
143
184
5
332
Disposals
(19)
(24)
-
0
(43)
At 26 March 2024
655
1,021
5
1,681
Depreciation and impairment
At 27 March 2023
303
628
-
0
931
Depreciation charged in the year
61
106
-
0
167
Eliminated in respect of disposals
(10)
(22)
-
0
(32)
At 26 March 2024
354
712
-
0
1,066
Carrying amount
At 26 March 2024
301
309
5
615
At 26 March 2023
228
233
-
0
461
Company
Leasehold improvements
Fixtures and fittings
Total
£000
£000
£000
Cost
At 27 March 2023
422
597
1,019
Additions
64
155
219
Disposals
(19)
(24)
(43)
At 26 March 2024
467
728
1,195
Depreciation and impairment
At 27 March 2023
218
428
646
Depreciation charged in the year
43
78
121
Eliminated in respect of disposals
(10)
(22)
(32)
At 26 March 2024
251
484
735
Carrying amount
At 26 March 2024
216
244
460
At 26 March 2023
204
169
373
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
11
Tangible fixed assets
(Continued)
- 28 -

The net carrying value of tangible fixed assets includes the following in respect of assets held under finance leases or hire purchase contracts.

Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£000
£000
£000
£000
Fixtures and fittings
70
-
0
35
-
0
12
Fixed asset investments
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
Notes
£000
£000
£000
£000
Investments in subsidiaries
13
-
0
-
0
2,757
2,757
Unlisted investments
1
1
1
1
1
1
2,758
2,758
Movements in fixed asset investments
Group
Investments
£000
Cost or valuation
At 27 March 2023 and 26 March 2024
1
Carrying amount
At 26 March 2024
1
At 26 March 2023
1
Movements in fixed asset investments
Company
Shares in subsidiaries
Other investments
Total
£000
£000
£000
Cost or valuation
At 27 March 2023 and 26 March 2024
2,757
1
2,758
Carrying amount
At 26 March 2024
2,757
1
2,758
At 26 March 2023
2,757
1
2,758
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
- 29 -
13
Subsidiaries

Details of the company's subsidiaries at 26 March 2024 are as follows:

Name of undertaking
Registered office
Class of
% Held
shares held
Direct
Indirect
First Stop News Limited
Hazel Court Midland Way, Barlborough, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, England, S43 4FD
Ordinary
100.00
-
Rippleglen Limited
As above
Ordinary
0
100.00
Maynews Limited
As above
Ordinary
0
100.00
Supernews Stores Limited
As above
Ordinary
0
100.00
Eastcliffe News Shops
As above
Ordinary
0
100.00

In the opinion of the directors, the value of these investments as at 26 March 2024 is not less than the aggregate amount in the balance sheet.

 

The reporting period end of the subsidiary undertakings is co-terminus with the company.

14
Stocks
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£000
£000
£000
£000
Finished goods and goods for resale
2,055
2,121
1,007
1,013
15
Debtors
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
Amounts falling due within one year:
£000
£000
£000
£000
Trade debtors
354
469
115
219
Corporation tax recoverable
5
5
5
5
Amounts owed by group undertakings
-
-
4,781
5,326
Other debtors
423
321
310
258
Prepayments and accrued income
667
761
433
500
1,449
1,556
5,644
6,308
Deferred tax asset (note 20)
416
302
195
175
1,865
1,858
5,839
6,483

Amounts owed by group undertakings are shown as falling due within one year as there is no set repayment date and there is no formal agreement in place. Commercially there are no plans for these amounts to be recalled within the next 12 months.

 

JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
- 30 -
16
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
Notes
£000
£000
£000
£000
Bank loans and overdrafts
18
1,483
941
1,483
941
Obligations under finance leases
19
12
-
0
12
-
0
Other borrowings
18
248
242
248
242
Trade creditors
3,259
5,042
1,852
2,336
Other taxation and social security
166
163
119
118
Other creditors
576
701
308
311
Accruals and deferred income
548
1,012
346
818
6,292
8,101
4,368
4,766

The bank overdraft, bank loans and other loans are secured by a debenture which creates a fixed and floating charge over the group's assets, property and revenues both present and future. The bank overdraft and loans take first priority over the other loans.

 

The loans from related parties are unsecured and have no formalised repayment date. Amounts are repaid as and when funds permit, and interest is charged at 3.3%.

 

Hire purchase liabilities are secured against the assets to which they relate.

 

17
Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
Notes
£000
£000
£000
£000
Bank loans and overdrafts
18
844
1,034
844
1,034
Obligations under finance leases
19
22
-
0
22
-
0
Other borrowings
18
846
880
846
880
1,712
1,914
1,712
1,914
18
Loans and overdrafts
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£000
£000
£000
£000
Bank loans
1,034
1,224
1,034
1,224
Bank overdrafts
1,293
751
1,293
751
Other loans
1,094
1,122
1,094
1,122
3,421
3,097
3,421
3,097
Payable within one year
1,731
1,183
1,731
1,183
Payable after one year
1,690
1,914
1,690
1,914
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
18
Loans and overdrafts
(Continued)
- 31 -

The bank overdraft, bank loans and other loans are secured by a debenture which creates a fixed and floating charge over the group's assets, property and revenues both present and future. The bank overdraft and loans take first priority over the other loans.

The bank loans attract interest at 2.8% plus LIBOR. Other loans are due to Bestway following the administration of Conviviality Retail plc.

19
Finance lease obligations
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£000
£000
£000
£000
Future minimum lease payments due under finance leases:
Within one year
12
-
0
12
-
0
In two to five years
22
-
0
22
-
0
34
-
34
-
20
Deferred taxation

The following are the major deferred tax liabilities and assets recognised by the group and company, and movements thereon:

Liabilities
Liabilities
Assets
Assets
2024
2023
2024
2023
Group
£000
£000
£000
£000
Accelerated capital allowances
-
1
(44)
18
Tax losses
-
-
429
254
Short term timing differences
-
-
31
30
-
1
416
302
Liabilities
Liabilities
Assets
Assets
2024
2023
2024
2023
Company
£000
£000
£000
£000
Accelerated capital allowances
-
-
(51)
(14)
Tax losses
-
-
216
159
Short term timing differences
-
-
30
30
-
-
195
175
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
20
Deferred taxation
(Continued)
- 32 -
Group
Company
2024
2024
Movements in the year:
£000
£000
Asset at 27 March 2023
(301)
(175)
Credit to profit or loss
(115)
(20)
Asset at 26 March 2024
(416)
(195)
21
Retirement benefit schemes
2024
2023
Defined contribution schemes
£000
£000
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes
93
81
22
Share capital
Group and company
2024
2023
2024
2023
Ordinary share capital
Number
Number
£000
£000
Issued and fully paid
Ordinary shares of £1 each
1,000
1,000
1
1
23
Financial commitments, guarantees and contingent liabilities

The company is party to an omnibus guarantee that guarantees the bank borrowings of fellow group borrowings, and the bank borrowings of James and Graven Holdings Limited and the bank borrowings of James Retail Soham Limited, all entity under common control. As at 31 March 2024 the bank borrowings covered by this guarantee totalled £5,050,403 (2023: £3,002,965)

24
Operating lease commitments
Lessee

At the reporting end date the group had outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases, which fall due as follows:

Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£000
£000
£000
£000
Within one year
867
603
549
294
Between two and five years
1,691
1,542
971
742
In over five years
226
234
134
117
2,784
2,379
1,654
1,153
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
- 33 -
25
Related party transactions

During the year the group entered into the following transactions with related parties:

 

Transactions between the group and its subsidiaries, which are related parties, have been eliminated on consolidation and are not disclosed in this note.

 

Directors remuneration is disclosed in note 7. The remuneration of the individuals considered to be key management personnel of the group, including the directors, totalled £382,333 (2023: £380,685). The directors annually review the remuneration of key management personnel and are satisfied that their remuneration paid is in line with market rates.

 

The company has unsecured loans from companies ultimately controlled by the directors. During the year the company made capital repayments of £183,217 (2023: £149,905). Interest of £20,657 (2023: £17,545) was accrued during the year. There was an additional loan of £160,000 granted during the financial year. The amount outstanding due to the related company at the balance sheet date was £618,896 (2023: £621,456).

 

During the year rent of £172,762 (2023: £141,936) was paid to companies under common control. At the year end £43,190 (2023: £43,333) was owed to companies under common control for unpaid rents.

 

During the year sales of £19,035 (2023: £8,752) and purchases of £27,240 (2023: £19,507) were made to companies under common control.

 

At the balance sheet date an amount of £114,026 (2023: £221,986) was due from companies under common control, amounts are unsecured and carry no set repayment date or interest charge.

26
Controlling party

James Convenience Retail Limited is controlled by Mr J M James by virtue of his shareholding.

27
Cash (absorbed by)/generated from group operations
2024
2023
£000
£000
Loss for the year after tax
(342)
(301)
Adjustments for:
Taxation credited
(115)
(25)
Finance costs
165
147
Loss/(gain) on disposal of tangible fixed assets
5
(127)
Amortisation and impairment of intangible assets
626
437
Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets
167
148
Movements in working capital:
Decrease/(increase) in stocks
66
(99)
Decrease/(increase) in debtors
107
(65)
(Decrease)/increase in creditors
(2,369)
2,580
Cash (absorbed by)/generated from operations
(1,690)
2,695
JAMES CONVENIENCE RETAIL LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 MARCH 2024
- 34 -
28
Analysis of changes in net debt - group
27 March 2023
Cash flows
New finance leases
26 March 2024
£000
£000
£000
£000
Cash at bank and in hand
3,046
(1,823)
-
1,223
Bank overdrafts
(751)
(542)
-
(1,293)
2,295
(2,365)
-
(70)
Borrowings excluding overdrafts
(2,346)
218
-
(2,128)
Obligations under finance leases
-
2
(36)
(34)
(51)
(2,145)
(36)
(2,232)
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