Company registration number 14729062 (England and Wales)
MELLOR BUS LTD
ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2024
MELLOR BUS LTD
COMPANY INFORMATION
Directors
Mr P De Keyser
Mr G L P Dumarey
Company number
14729062
Registered office
Colmill Works
Wigan Road
Westhoughton
Bolton
BL5 2EE
Auditor
MHA
Richard House
9 Winckley Square
Preston
PR1 3HP
MELLOR BUS LTD
CONTENTS
Page
Strategic report
1 - 3
Directors' report
4
Directors' responsibilities statement
5
Independent auditor's report
6 - 8
Statement of comprehensive income
9
Balance sheet
10
Statement of changes in equity
11
Notes to the financial statements
12 - 24
MELLOR BUS LTD
STRATEGIC REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2024
- 1 -
The directors present the strategic report for the year ended 30 November 2024.
Review of the business
The business operates as a specialist vehicle convertor principally covering the whole of the UK with some minor export sales into Europe. The business operates in the small bus market and services a range of local councils, private bus operators and fleet rental companies.
During the period, Mellor Bus Ltd acquired a proportion of the businesses and assets from WN VTech Limited, who were trading in administration under the instruction of Teneo Financial Advisory.
Despite the challenges to restart operations during the reporting period ending 30 November, it has been a transformative and successful year for the business, marked by significant progress in stabilising operations post-acquisition. Our strong collaboration with customers and suppliers has ensured seamless continuity, and we are encouraged by their enthusiastic commitment to the new business. We have proactively shared our vision under the leadership of the new owner, fostering confidence and alignment across our network. The remarkable turnaround of the business over the period to November 2024 is a testament to the hard work and resilience of our employees and wider stakeholders, positioning the business for future success.
Being part of the wider Woodall-Nicholson Group, The Board has diligently assessed the structure of the group and the whole portfolio of products offered to the markets. This review led to a re-structure of the organization which included some redundancies in some lower added value areas of the business, but also the addition of a number of key personnel to strengthen the management structure within the group. Key roles within our Group Supply chain and Health & Safety teams have led to a number of positive changes to ensure a thriving workplace for everyone across the site. This strategic realignment has resulted in a more agile and efficient organization.
We have initiated the development of a range of changes to our existing bus products looking to utilize the expertise we have within the group more than ever before.
During the period, we made the strategic decision to discontinue production of the Sigma Electric Bus range. This decision was driven by a reassessment of market requirements and the strategic priorities of the Group under its new ownership. We recognised the need for the group to focus on the core range of products. As part of this realignment, we have written off of £4.1m in acquired assets, stock and finished goods from the Mellor Bus Ltd business. This focused approach ensures that our resources and expertise are directed toward the most impactful opportunities for long term growth and success. See note 4 for further details.
We summarise below the first period results:
Unit 2024
Turnover £ 20,882,509
Gross profit (pre exceptionals) £ 6,791,320
Gross profit (pre exceptionals) % 32.5%
Funding
The group has been able to utilize internally generated cash to fund the day to day operations. On start up at the end of 2023 and during the first quarter of 2024, the group received funding where required direct from it’s owner to service the exceptional items are disclosed in note 4 of these accounts.
The group obtained day to day banking arrangements with Lloyds Bank.
Our immediate priority continues to be continued operational stability, maximising profitability and cash generation. The board is confident that the group can pursue its product development and growth strategy by utilising it’s operational cashflow, whilst continuing to explore external funding opportunities
MELLOR BUS LTD
STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2024
- 2 -
Principal risks and uncertainties
The group's revenues and activity levels are affected by a number of factors, the principal ones of which are:
Competition
The business operates in a very competitive market and addresses this by offering a high-quality innovative products, tailored around the customer needs. The group also provides aftermarket services that differentiate the value proposition versus the competition.
Economic
The business has shown great resilience in face of adversity and the post administration challenges. It has continued to grow and invest in key areas to support this. There have been significant challenges through 'cost of living' and announcements in the 2024 autumn budget and the impact of previous interest rate increases impacting our staff and stakeholders. We remain wary of both of these external factors and remain positive that the business is now robust enough and is operationally managed in such a way as to ensure significant negative effects will not be experienced.
For our bus manufacturing businesses in particular, the economic climate particularly impacting our local council customers following the change in national government and spending announcements in the autumn budget can be challenging, but we remain confident that our sales growth into new segments of the market and the launch of new products will help us mitigate this risk. We will continue to work closely with all of our customers to ensure we can mitigate any localized issues. Both Mellor Bus and Treka Bus have continued to demonstrate significant resilience.
Rising input costs, particularly raw material supply, all have an impact on the group but a new pricing strategy in the market and our new group procurement structure in place will help us manage these risks. The price rises in both gas and electricity impacted our energy expenditure. We are now protected by further price rises until December 2025. We have projected the effect on group of the new National Minimum Wage, effective from 5 April 2025, and are supporting our staff by implementing this from the start of the new financial year, December 2024.
Financial
The Board recognises the need to maintain appropriate levels of funding for the group, and we have maintained positive cash balances throughout the period (refer also to above "Funding" section).
Operational
Delivery of vehicles to the highest possible quality standards to our customers is of paramount importance. The business has and continues to make significant investments in it’s facilities and people, award winning apprenticeship schemes have been deployed during the period. The board recognises that propagation of key technical skills within the business is of significant importance as it helps preserve a fully trained and skilled workforce which in turn mitigates the risk of labour fluctuations in a competitive market. The business has fostered excellent supplier relationships in the aftermath of the administration process this has allowed the business to deliver its operational goals.
We are reliant on technology and information systems for all areas of the business which can adversely affect operations if they were to fail for any length of time. We work closely with our IT providers to ensure that systems are updated and tested regularly and have maintenance agreements in place for all key systems.
MELLOR BUS LTD
STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2024
- 3 -
Health and safety
To assist with the pro-active management of health and safety compliance throughout our business, we have invested in people and expanded our team during the year. The appointment of a new Group H&S Manager alongside two new advisors has enabled us to review systems, processes and working conditions in a timely manner. We have invested significant funds in the operational site to enhance the working conditions of all of our employees and visitors.
We are in the process of investing in new management and training systems which will help monitor and enhance our health and safety reporting. The Group will re-certify its operations and management systems to ISO 9001:2015 during the first half of 2025, and is scheduled to obtain ISO 14001:2025 towards the end of 2025.
Future developments
We are focused on enhancing our existing product ranges whilst closely working with our customers to identify market opportunities that, where appropriate, will enable the expansion of our product ranges to accommodate their needs.
To that extent capital expenditure programmes are underway in 2025 in order to meet the needs of the industry and offer new innovative products.
Employees
Our employees are our most important asset and are fundamental to our long term success. We have a diverse skill base and range of experience across our sites and recognize that developing and investing in this is key to our long term objectives.
During the year we have recognized the need to blood the next generation of coach builders within the industry. We have launched a new, industry specific, Apprenticeship Programme with our new Partner Hopwood Hall who are based in the Rochdale area. This year has seen the business employ 5 new apprentices under the programme with a commitment to a new intake each September. We hope that this course not only benefits the long term future of Mellor Bus but can have a positive impact on the local community and wider industry as a whole.
We are continuing to invest in all aspects of the group to ensure that the workplace is a safe place for all of our employees. Full site surveys have been carried out and investment continues to upgrade areas of the facilities that require them in order to improve our standards.
The board are also keen to keep all employees informed of business developments and now issue a monthly newsletter shared with all staff as well as holding quarterly townhall briefings to all areas of the business.
Following the 2024 Autumn Budget announcements and the changes to National Minimum Wage we assessed the impact of the business and have adopted these new rates early from 1st December 2024. The business is committed to working with it’s employees at all levels to ensure we offer a benefits package that rewards their commitment to our business.
Mr G L P Dumarey
Director
4 April 2025
MELLOR BUS LTD
DIRECTORS' REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2024
- 4 -
The directors present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 30 November 2024.
Principal activities
The principal activity of the company continued to be that of the specialist vehicle conversion.
Results and dividends
The results for the year are set out on page 9.
No ordinary dividends were paid. The directors do not recommend payment of a final dividend.
Directors
The directors who held office during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were as follows:
Mr P De Keyser
Mr G L P Dumarey
Auditor
MHA were appointed as auditor to the company and in accordance with section 485 of the Companies Act 2006, a resolution proposing that they be re-appointed will be put at a General Meeting.
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 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 the business, principal risks and uncertainties and financial risk management.
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 company’s auditor 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 company’s auditor 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
Mr G L P Dumarey
Director
4 April 2025
MELLOR BUS LTD
DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITIES STATEMENT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2024
- 5 -
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 company and of the profit or loss of the company for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the directors are required to:
select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
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 keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the company’s transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
MELLOR BUS LTD
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
TO THE MEMBERS OF MELLOR BUS LTD
- 6 -
Opinion
We have audited the financial statements of Mellor Bus Ltd (the 'company') for the year ended 30 November 2024 which comprise the statement of comprehensive income, the balance sheet, the statement of changes in equity 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:
give a true and fair view of the state of the company's affairs as at 30 November 2024 and of its profit for the year then ended;
have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and
have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.
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 responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.
Conclusions relating to going concern
In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the directors' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.
Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the company's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.
Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the directors with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.
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.
MELLOR BUS LTD
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
TO THE MEMBERS OF MELLOR BUS LTD (CONTINUED)
- 7 -
Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006
In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of our audit:
the information given in the strategic report and the directors' report for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and
the strategic report and the directors' report have been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.
In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the strategic report or the directors' report.
Matters on which we are required to report by exception
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:
adequate accounting records have not been kept, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or
the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or
certain disclosures of remuneration specified by law are not made; or
we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.
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 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.
Auditor 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.
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 specific procedures for this engagement and the extent to which these are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is detailed below:
Enquiries with management, about any known or suspected instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations and fraud;
Challenging assumptions and judgements made by management in their significant accounting estimates.
Auditing the risk of fraud and management override of revenue by incorporating data analytics into our sampling of source entries and testing specific transactions to determine the completeness of revenue; and
Auditing the risk of management override of controls, including through testing journal entries and other adjustments for appropriateness.
MELLOR BUS LTD
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
TO THE MEMBERS OF MELLOR BUS LTD (CONTINUED)
- 8 -
Because of the inherent limitations of an audit, there is a risk that we will not detect all irregularities, including those leading to a material misstatement in the financial statements or non-compliance with regulation. This risk increases the more that compliance with a law or regulation is removed from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, as we will be less likely to become aware of instances of non-compliance. The risk is also greater regarding irregularities occurring due to fraud rather than error, as fraud involves intentional concealment, forgery, collusion, omission or misrepresentation.
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.
Other matters which we are required to address
In the previous accounting period the directors of the company took advantage of audit exemption under s480 of the Companies Act. Therefore the prior period financial statements were not subject to audit.
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 Locker BSc(Hons) FCA
Senior Statutory Auditor
For and on behalf of MHA, Statutory Auditor
Preston, United Kingdom
4 April 2025
MHA is the trading name of MacIntyre Hudson LLP, a limited liability partnership in England and Wales (registered number OC312313)
MELLOR BUS LTD
STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2024
- 9 -
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
Turnover
3
20,882,509
-
Cost of sales
(14,091,189)
Gross profit before exceptional item
6,791,320
Exceptional item
(6,809,308)
-
Gross (loss)/profit
(17,988)
-
Administrative expenses
(7,865,050)
Other operating income
160,714
Exceptional item
4
9,329,195
Profit before taxation
1,606,871
-
Tax on profit
7
1,432,919
Profit for the financial year
3,039,790
The profit and loss account has been prepared on the basis that all operations are continuing operations.
MELLOR BUS LTD
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT
30 NOVEMBER 2024
30 November 2024
- 10 -
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
£
£
Fixed assets
Negative goodwill
8
(162,361)
Other intangible assets
8
53,344
Total intangible assets
(109,017)
Tangible assets
9
186,119
77,102
Current assets
Stocks
10
2,791,393
-
Debtors
11
7,142,172
1
Cash at bank and in hand
818,948
10,752,513
1
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
12
(7,645,655)
Net current assets
3,106,858
1
Total assets less current liabilities
3,183,960
1
Provisions for liabilities
Provisions
13
144,169
(144,169)
-
Net assets
3,039,791
1
Capital and reserves
Called up share capital
16
1
1
Profit and loss reserves
3,039,790
Total equity
3,039,791
1
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 4 April 2025 and are signed on its behalf by:
Mr G L P Dumarey
Director
Company registration number 14729062 (England and Wales)
MELLOR BUS LTD
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2024
- 11 -
Share capital
Profit and loss reserves
Total
£
£
£
Balance at 1 December 2022
1
1
Year ended 30 November 2023:
Profit and total comprehensive income
-
Balance at 30 November 2023
1
1
Year ended 30 November 2024:
Profit and total comprehensive income
-
3,039,790
3,039,790
Balance at 30 November 2024
1
3,039,790
3,039,791
MELLOR BUS LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2024
- 12 -
1
Accounting policies
Company information
Mellor Bus Ltd is a private company limited by shares incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is Colmill Works, Wigan Road, Westhoughton, Bolton, BL5 2EE.
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 £.
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.
This 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:
Section 7 ‘Statement of Cash Flows’: Presentation of a statement of cash flow and related notes and disclosures;
Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instrument Issues: Interest income/expense and net gains/losses for financial instruments not measured at fair value; basis of determining fair values; details of collateral, loan defaults or breaches, details of hedges, hedging fair value changes recognised in profit or loss and in other comprehensive income;
Section 33 ‘Related Party Disclosures’: Compensation for key management personnel.
The financial statements of the company are consolidated in the financial statements of Woodall-Nicholson Limited. These consolidated financial statements are available from its registered office, Colmill Works Wigan Road, Westhoughton, Bolton, England, BL5 2EE.
1.2
Going concern
Atruet the time of approving the financial statements, the directors have a reasonable expectation that the company has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future.
The directors have confirmed the loan with other holding company will not be recalled within 12 months of the signature of the financial statements, and have provided support for 12 months following the approval of the financial statements.
Thus the directors continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.
MELLOR BUS LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 13 -
1.3
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.
When cash inflows are deferred and represent a financing arrangement, the fair value of the consideration is the present value of the future receipts. The difference between the fair value of the consideration and the nominal amount received is recognised as interest income.
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.
1.4
Research and development expenditure
Research expenditure is written off against profits in the year in which it is incurred. Identifiable development expenditure is capitalised to the extent that the technical, commercial and financial feasibility can be demonstrated.
1.5
Intangible fixed assets - goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of acquisition of unincorporated businesses over the fair value of net assets acquired. It is initially recognised as an asset at cost and is subsequently measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill is considered to have a finite useful life and is amortised on a systematic basis over its expected life.
For the purposes of impairment testing, goodwill is allocated to the cash-generating units expected to benefit from the acquisition. Cash-generating units to which goodwill has been allocated are tested for impairment at least annually, or more frequently when there is an indication that the unit may be impaired. If the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit is less than the carrying amount of the unit, the impairment loss is allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the unit and then to the other assets of the unit pro-rata on the basis of the carrying amount of each asset in the unit.
1.6
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.
Amortisation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:
Development costs
25% - 50% straight line
1.7
Tangible fixed assets
Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.
MELLOR BUS LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 14 -
Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:
Plant and equipment
20% - 50% straight line
Fixtures and fittings
33% - 50% straight line
Motor vehicles
33% - 50% straight line
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 credited or charged to profit or loss.
1.8
Impairment of fixed assets
At each reporting period end date, the company reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible and intangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any). Where it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, the company estimates the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit to which the asset belongs.
Recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated 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.
Recognised impairment losses are reversed if, and only if, the reasons for the impairment loss have ceased to apply. Where an impairment loss subsequently reverses, the carrying amount of the asset (or cash-generating unit) is increased to the revised estimate of its recoverable amount, but so that the increased carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognised for the asset (or cash-generating unit) in prior years. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognised immediately in profit or loss, unless the relevant asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case the reversal of the impairment loss is treated as a revaluation increase.
1.9
Stocks
Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell. Cost comprises direct materials and, where applicable, direct labour costs and those overheads that have been incurred in bringing the stocks to their present location and condition.
Stocks held for distribution at no or nominal consideration are measured at the lower of cost and replacement cost, adjusted where applicable for any loss of service potential.
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. Reversals of impairment losses are also recognised in profit or loss.
1.10
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.
MELLOR BUS LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 15 -
1.11
Financial instruments
The company 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 company's balance sheet when the company becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.
Basic financial assets
Basic financial assets, which include 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.
Other financial assets
Other financial assets, including investments in equity instruments which are not subsidiaries, associates or joint ventures, are initially measured at fair value, which is normally the transaction price. Such assets are subsequently carried at fair value and the changes in fair value are recognised in profit or loss, except that investments in equity instruments that are not publicly traded and whose fair values cannot be measured reliably are measured at cost less impairment.
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.
Derecognition of financial assets
Financial assets are derecognised only when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire or are settled, or when the company transfers the financial asset and substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to another entity, or if some significant risks and rewards of ownership are retained but control of the asset has transferred to another party that is able to sell the asset in its entirety to an unrelated third party.
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 company after deducting all of its liabilities.
MELLOR BUS LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 16 -
Basic financial liabilities
Basic financial liabilities, including creditors, bank loans, loans from fellow group companies and preference shares that are classified as debt, 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
Derivatives, including interest rate swaps and forward foreign exchange contracts, are not basic financial instruments. Derivatives are initially recognised at fair value on the date a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently re-measured at their fair value. Changes in the fair value of derivatives are recognised in profit or loss in finance costs or finance income as appropriate, unless hedge accounting is applied and the hedge is a cash flow hedge.
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 company’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.
1.12
Equity instruments
Equity instruments issued by the company 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 company.
1.13
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 company’s liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting end date.
MELLOR BUS LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 17 -
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. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when the company has a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets and liabilities and the deferred tax assets and liabilities relate to taxes levied by the same tax authority.
1.14
Provisions
Provisions are recognised when the company has a legal or constructive present obligation as a result of a past event, it is probable that the company will be required to settle that obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.
The amount recognised as a provision is the best estimate of the consideration required to settle the present obligation at the reporting end date, taking into account the risks and uncertainties surrounding the obligation. Where the effect of the time value of money is material, the amount expected to be required to settle the obligation is recognised at present value. When a provision is measured at present value, the unwinding of the discount is recognised as a finance cost in profit or loss in the period in which it arises.
1.15
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.
1.16
Retirement benefits
Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due.
1.17
Leases
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 leases asset are consumed.
MELLOR BUS LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2024
- 18 -
2
Judgements 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 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.
Critical judgements
The following judgements (apart from those involving estimates) have had the most significant effect on amounts recognised in the financial statements.
Amortisation of negative goodwill
Negative goodwill is being amortised as the assets acquired are being utilised, this is being assessed on a line by line basis until the balance is full amortised.
Key sources of estimation uncertainty
The estimates and assumptions which have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amount of assets and liabilities are as follows.
Provision for slow moving stock
Stock which has not been sold or consumed within the last 12 months is provided for at 50%. Where stock has not been sold or consumed within the last 24 months, this is provided for at 100%.
3
Turnover
2024
2023
£
£
Turnover analysed by class of business
Specialist vehicle conversion
20,882,509
-
2024
2023
£
£
Turnover analysed by geographical market
United Kingdom
20,882,509
-
4
Exceptional items
2024
2023
£
£
Expenditure
Retention of title costs
6,809,308
-
Negative goodwill release to profit
(9,329,195)
-
MELLOR BUS LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2024
- 19 -
5
Operating profit
2024
2023
Operating profit for the year is stated after charging/(crediting):
£
£
Exchange losses
21,075
Research and development costs
1,201,672
-
Fees payable to the company's auditor for the audit of the company's financial statements
8,250
Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets
371,234
-
Amortisation of intangible assets
(7,660,017)
-
Operating lease charges
73,418
-
6
Employees
The average monthly number of persons (including directors) employed by the company during the year was:
2024
2023
Number
Number
Administration
22
-
Production
63
-
Total
85
Their aggregate remuneration comprised:
2024
2023
£
£
Wages and salaries
2,740,596
Social security costs
282,817
-
Pension costs
227,859
3,251,272
7
Taxation
2024
2023
£
£
Deferred tax
Origination and reversal of timing differences
(1,432,919)
MELLOR BUS LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2024
7
Taxation
(Continued)
- 20 -
The actual (credit)/charge for the year can be reconciled to the expected charge/(credit) for the year based on the profit or loss and the standard rate of tax as follows:
2024
2023
£
£
Profit before taxation
1,606,871
Expected tax charge based on the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 25.00% (2023: 25.00%)
401,718
Amortisation on assets not qualifying for tax allowances
(1,834,637)
Taxation credit for the year
(1,432,919)
-
8
Intangible fixed assets
Negative goodwill
Development costs
Total
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 December 2023
Additions - separately acquired
(9,491,556)
(9,491,556)
Additions - business combinations
1,722,522
1,722,522
Disposals
(1,604,857)
(1,604,857)
At 30 November 2024
(9,491,556)
117,665
(9,373,891)
Amortisation and impairment
At 1 December 2023
Amortisation charged for the year
(9,329,195)
1,669,178
(7,660,017)
Disposals
(1,604,857)
(1,604,857)
At 30 November 2024
(9,329,195)
64,321
(9,264,874)
Carrying amount
At 30 November 2024
(162,361)
53,344
(109,017)
At 30 November 2023
MELLOR BUS LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2024
- 21 -
9
Tangible fixed assets
Plant and equipment
Fixtures and fittings
Motor vehicles
Total
£
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 December 2023
Additions
54,000
54,000
Business combinations
485,007
18,346
503,353
At 30 November 2024
485,007
18,346
54,000
557,353
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 December 2023
Depreciation charged in the year
360,355
9,754
1,125
371,234
At 30 November 2024
360,355
9,754
1,125
371,234
Carrying amount
At 30 November 2024
124,652
8,592
52,875
186,119
At 30 November 2023
10
Stocks
2024
2023
£
£
Raw materials and consumables
1,237,345
-
Work in progress
1,549,561
-
Finished goods and goods for resale
4,487
2,791,393
-
11
Debtors
2024
2023
Amounts falling due within one year:
£
£
Trade debtors
2,791,352
Amounts owed by group undertakings
2,903,354
Other debtors
60
1
Prepayments and accrued income
14,487
5,709,253
1
Deferred tax asset (note 14)
916,634
6,625,887
1
MELLOR BUS LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2024
11
Debtors
(Continued)
- 22 -
2024
2023
Amounts falling due after more than one year:
£
£
Deferred tax asset (note 14)
516,285
Total debtors
7,142,172
1
12
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2024
2023
£
£
Trade creditors
825,943
Amounts owed to group undertakings
3,871,850
Taxation and social security
707,229
Other creditors
446,963
Accruals and deferred income
1,793,670
7,645,655
13
Provisions for liabilities
2024
2023
£
£
Warranty provision
144,169
-
Movements on provisions:
Warranty provision
£
Additional provisions in the year
144,169
The warranty provision represents the expected warranty costs with the vehicles sold.
MELLOR BUS LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2024
- 23 -
14
Deferred taxation
The following are the major deferred tax liabilities and assets recognised by the company and movements thereon:
Assets
Assets
2024
2023
Balances:
£
£
Accelerated capital allowances
(10,453)
-
Tax losses
1,426,903
-
Short term timing difference
16,469
-
1,432,919
-
2024
Movements in the year:
£
Liability at 1 December 2023
-
Credit to profit or loss
(1,432,919)
Asset at 30 November 2024
(1,432,919)
The deferred tax asset set out above is expected to reverse within 12 months and relates to the utilisation of tax losses against future expected profits of the same period.
15
Retirement benefit schemes
2024
2023
Defined contribution schemes
£
£
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes
227,859
-
The company operates a defined contribution pension scheme for all qualifying employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the company in an independently administered fund.
The amount included in creditors at the year end £65,873.
16
Share capital
2024
2023
2024
2023
Ordinary share capital
Number
Number
£
£
Issued and fully paid
Ordinary shares of £1 each
1
1
1
1
MELLOR BUS LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 NOVEMBER 2024
- 24 -
17
Acquisition
On 5 December 2023 the company acquired certain trade and assets from WN Vtech Limited.
Fair Value
£
Intangible assets
1,722,922
Property, plant and equipment
503,353
Inventories
7,870,291
Total identifiable net assets
10,096,566
Goodwill
(9,874,566)
Total consideration
222,000
Satisfied by:
£
Cash
222,000
The negative goodwill arising on the acquisition of certain trade and assets of WN Vtech Limited.
18
Operating lease commitments
Lessee
At the reporting end date the company had outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases, which fall due as follows:
2024
2023
£
£
Within one year
134,167
Between two and five years
231,667
365,834
19
Ultimate controlling party
The immediate parent and ultimate parent company is Woodall-Nicholson Ltd, a company incorporated in England and Wales, with registered office at Colmill Works, Wigan Road, Westhoughton, Bolton, BL5 2EE.
The ultimate controlling party is Mr G L P Dumarey due to his shareholding in Woodall-Nicholson Ltd.
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