Company Registration No. 04316537 (England and Wales)
All Steels Trading Limited
Annual report and financial statements
for the year ended 31 December 2024
All Steels Trading Limited
Company information
Directors
Laurence McDougall
Matthew Rhodes
Kim McDougall
Thomas McDougall
Jonathan Jacobs
Lee White
Anthony Gabbutt
Company number
04316537
Registered office
Vulcan House
York Road
Thirsk
North Yorkshire
YO7 3BT
Independent auditor
Saffery LLP
10 Wellington Place
Leeds
LS1 4AP
Bankers
HSBC Bank plc
North & West Yorkshire Corporate Banking Centre
HSBC House
1 Bond Court
Leeds
LS1 2JZ
All Steels Trading Limited
Contents
Page
Strategic report
1 - 3
Directors' report
4 - 5
Directors' responsibilities statement
6
Independent auditor's report
7 - 10
Statement of comprehensive income
11
Statement of financial position
12
Statement of changes in equity
13
Notes to the financial statements
14 - 28
All Steels Trading Limited
Strategic report
For the year ended 31 December 2024
1

The directors present the strategic report for the year ended 31 December 2024.

Fair review of the business

We aim to present a balanced review of the development and performance of the business during the year and its position at the year end. Our review is consistent with the size and relatively non-complex nature of the business and mindful of the risks and uncertainties we face.

 

The business review has been prepared solely to provide information to stakeholders as a body to assess the Company’s strategies and the potential for those strategies to succeed. The review should not be relied on by any other party or for any other purpose.

Description of principal risks and uncertainties

The business’ principal customers are steel stockholders where the main risk is any significant reduction in steel demand and a deterioration in steel prices. There also remains an underlying problem of uncertainty caused by both EU/UK Safeguard quotas and stubbornly high inflation, which is stalling any general economic recovery.

 

The Company continues to insure its trading debts.

 

The Company’s principal foreign currency exposures arise from trading with overseas companies. Company procedure provides, but does not demand, that these exposures may be hedged in order to fix the cost in sterling. The hedging activity involves the use of foreign exchange forward contracts.

Development and performance

We consider our key performance indicators to be those that reflect the Company’s financial performance and overall strength: turnover, gross profit margin, profit before tax, and net assets.

 

 

2024

2023

2022

 

 

£000s

£000s

£000s

 

Turnover

85,813

97,203

129,304

 

Gross profit margin

7.52%

7.00%

16.93%

 

Profit before tax

1,800

2,300

17,027

 

Net assets    

26,964

29,715

28,983

 

 

Analysis based on Key Performance Indicators

Despite challenging market conditions, the Company achieved satisfactory results, particularly in terms of gross profit margin and overall profitability. Whilst turnover decreased by 11.7% compared to the prior year, it is important to note that the volume of steel sold remained virtually unchanged. The decline in turnover was solely attributed to the reduction in steel prices as a commodity.

 

These results are commendable given the broader economic challenges. The UK economy remained depressed, with high interest rates discouraging investment. Delays in Government infrastructure projects due to stricter fiscal controls further constrained construction activity, leading to reduced steel demand and declining steel prices.

 

In addition, the industry faced continuing pressures, including ongoing business failures at the main contractor level, which has now begun to affect steel fabricators and structural engineers. Steel consuming businesses also faced rising costs due to significant increases in employment, storage and logistics costs, persistently high energy prices and finance charges.

 

All Steels Trading Limited
Strategic report (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
2
Environmental

The Company is a mostly office based environment so has a relatively small carbon footprint but it takes its environment responsibilities seriously. The Company currently operates two sites that have solar panels and electric car charging points to encourage employees to use electricity to run their private cars. Water heating is also provided by a ground source heat pump at one of the sites.

 

Employees

The Company hold regular open staff meetings where staff are encouraged either there, or in private, to raise any concerns. The Company prides itself on employee satisfaction and with no complaints and small staff turnover, it is considered that employees are satisfied. There are no formal training programs in place but employees are encouraged to carry out continuous professional development in languages etc.

 

Future Outlook

The outlook for 2025 remains challenging, but there are signs of improvement. Destocking throughout the supply chain appears to be near completion and rising fundamental costs in steel manufacturing typically encourages stock replenishment to pre-empt price increases.

 

European protectionist measures in response to the 25% tariff on US steel imports, combined with the EU/UK introduction of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) are likely to drive further steel price inflation.

Whilst such higher steel prices may not stimulate building activity, they present profit opportunities for a business like All Steels Trading, which holds significant inventories to provide a rapid supply service.

 

Operationally, the business is strong. The new storage facility in Scunthorpe has successfully helped to alleviate previous storage constraints and is now integral to our operations. Additionally, soon after the date of these accounts, we expect to have exchanged contracts for large warehousing and outdoor storage facilities in West Bromwich, West Midlands adding some 8,000 tonnes of storage capacity. The expansion enhances our ability to better serve our customers and manage inventory more efficiently.

 

Looking ahead, we anticipate that the Bank of England base rate will be reduced, leading to meaningful reductions in financing costs. Furthermore, it seems increasingly likely that the Government will move forward with essential infrastructure projects, which should positively impact steel demand.

 

Our average stock pricing is well positioned with nearly all current inventory below replacement cost, providing a solid competitive advantage.

 

As a mature business with excellent staff retention, we are well placed to leverage our extensive industry knowledge and experience. Our skilled team continues to drive business development, introducing new product streams to diversify and strengthen our portfolio.

We also maintain a robust balance sheet, which provides financial stability and inspires confidence among our suppliers. This solid foundation, coupled with strong and long established relationships with suppliers and customers, underpins the Company’s long-term success.

 

A related party, Bromford Iron Ltd, is no longer considered a going concern. Bromford Iron is in the process of going through a managed closure with All Steels Trading providing support. Calculations have been carried out that show there should be no further impairment that would materially affect these accounts.

 

The directors have carefully reviewed and stress-tested financial forecasts, which indicate that the Company remains profitable and operates well within its borrowing facilities. With the continued support of HSBC, the directors are confident that the Company will remain a going concern.

 

The ability to generate a commendable profit in a depressed 2024 underscores the resilience of the business and the dedication of our team. The directors wish to express their gratitude to all employees and associates of All Steels Trading for their professionalism, energy, and commitment throughout a challenging year.

All Steels Trading Limited
Strategic report (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
3
Section 172 statement
Training

The directors are aware of the importance of undertaking regular and ongoing training to support regulatory requirements. There is currently an informal induction process for new directors, with presentations and materials delivered as part of the induction process. Going forward, it is anticipated that a regular and ongoing directors training programme will be developed to support broader regulatory requirements, cascaded to senior managers as required.

Board meetings

The Company holds regular meetings throughout the year and is supported by management and various departmental divisions providing timely and detailed information in support of the Board’s decision making. The Board operates an agenda of items appropriate to the size and complexity of the business. Items requiring Board approval are clearly defined and will include; new bank facilities, investment proposals, including acquisitions and disposals, and significant changes to the way health and safety is managed and monitored.

 

The Board receives monthly reports on the operating and financial performance of the business including current and forecast financial information in order to assist in making informed decision-making and strategic planning.

 

The Board ensures that appropriate policies are in place in relation to matters including anti-slavery and human trafficking, anti-bribery and corruption and the Company’s tax strategy.

Decision making

Where appropriate the Board will consult with professionals or other organisations to assist with decision making and help consider the likely consequences of the decision in the long term. The interests of all key stakeholders including the Company’s employees, suppliers, customers and the wider community are considered as part of the decision-making process. The Company actively engages with key stakeholders through employee, customer and supplier feedback in the form of surveys and one-on-one meetings.

Principal decisions

Principal decisions are undertaken by the Board following a thorough review process to take account of stakeholder and operational benefits to the business.

 

Culture

The Company’s culture combines a family business ethos with a commitment to high quality across everything we do including corporate governance and general business conduct. The Company’s relationships with its stakeholder community are central to this.

On behalf of the board

Laurence McDougall
Director
9 April 2025
All Steels Trading Limited
Directors' report
For the year ended 31 December 2024
4

The directors present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2024.

Principal activities

The principal activity of the Company during the year was the procurement and wholesale of general structural steels.

Results and dividends

The results for the year are set out on page 12.

 

The trading profit before tax was £1.8m (2023: £2.3m).

An interim dividend has been paid in the year of £3.990m.

 

The total distribution of dividends for the year ended 31 December 2024 was £3.990m (2023: £0.975m).

Directors

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

Laurence McDougall
Matthew Rhodes
Kim McDougall
Thomas McDougall
Jonathan Jacobs
Lee White
Anthony Gabbutt
Qualifying third party indemnity provisions

The company has made qualifying third party indemnity provisions for the benefit of its directors which were

made during the year and remain in force at the date of this report

Auditor

Saffery LLP have expressed their willingness to continue in office.

All Steels Trading Limited
Directors' report (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
5
Strategic report

The Company has chosen in accordance with Companies Act 2006, s. 414C(11) to set out in the 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 information on future developments, financial instruments 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.

Corporate responsibility

During 2024 the business again selected The King’s Trust as its main vehicle for charitable donations. Each four year cycle commitment totals £100,000 that is supporting 100 young people to go through The Trust’s training and education programme to get into employment. Such a commitment continues to award the business with a patronage status of The Prince’s Trust.

 

The Company also made sizable charitable donations to Yorkshire Children's Charity.

 

On behalf of the board
Laurence McDougall
Director
9 April 2025
All Steels Trading Limited
Directors' responsibilities statement
For the year ended 31 December 2024
6

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:

 

 

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.

All Steels Trading Limited
Independent auditor's report
To the members of All Steels Trading Limited
7
Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of All Steels Trading Limited (the 'company') for the year ended 31 December 2024 which comprise the statement of comprehensive income, the statement of financial position, 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:

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 company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

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

 

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the company's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

 

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

Other information

The 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.

All Steels Trading Limited
Independent auditor's report (continued)
To the members of All Steels Trading Limited
8

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

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

 

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

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

All Steels Trading Limited
Independent auditor's report (continued)
To the members of All Steels Trading Limited
9

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 are detailed below.

 

Identifying and assessing risks related to irregularities:

We assessed the susceptibility of the company’s financial statements to material misstatement and how fraud might occur, including through discussions with the directors, discussions within our audit team planning meeting, updating our record of internal controls and ensuring these controls operated as intended. We evaluated possible incentives and opportunities for fraudulent manipulation of the financial statements. We identified laws and regulations that are of significance in the context of the company by discussions with directors and by updating our understanding of the sector in which the company operates.

 

Laws and regulations of direct significance in the context of the company include The Companies Act 2006 and UK Tax legislation.

 

Audit response to risks identified

We considered the extent of compliance with these laws and regulations as part of our audit procedures on the related financial statement items including a review of financial statement disclosures. We reviewed the company's records of breaches of laws and regulations, minutes of meetings and correspondence with relevant authorities to identify potential material misstatements arising. We discussed the company's policies and procedures for compliance with laws and regulations with members of management responsible for compliance.

During the planning meeting with the audit team, the engagement partner drew attention to the key areas which might involve non-compliance with laws and regulations or fraud. We enquired of management whether they were aware of any instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations or knowledge of any actual, suspected or alleged fraud. We addressed the risk of fraud through management override of controls by testing the appropriateness of journal entries and identifying any significant transactions that were unusual or outside the normal course of business. We assessed whether judgements made in making accounting estimates gave rise to a possible indication of management bias. At the completion stage of the audit, the engagement partner’s review included ensuring that the team had approached their work with appropriate professional scepticism and thus the capacity to identify non-compliance with laws and regulations and fraud.

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

A further description of our responsibilities 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.

All Steels Trading Limited
Independent auditor's report (continued)
To the members of All Steels Trading Limited
10
Jonathan Davis
Senior Statutory Auditor
For and on behalf of Saffery LLP
10 April 2025
Statutory Auditors
10 Wellington Place
Leeds
LS1 4AP
All Steels Trading Limited
Statement of comprehensive income
For the year ended 31 December 2024
11
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
Turnover
3
85,813,411
97,203,004
Cost of sales
(79,358,686)
(90,400,723)
Gross profit
6,454,725
6,802,281
Administrative expenses
(4,121,273)
(3,713,746)
Operating profit
4
2,333,452
3,088,535
Interest receivable and similar income
7
12,418
358,926
Interest payable and similar expenses
8
(1,313,270)
(1,125,137)
Other gains and losses
9
767,379
(22,193)
Profit before taxation
1,799,979
2,300,131
Tax on profit
10
(561,602)
(592,630)
Profit for the financial year
1,238,377
1,707,501

The income statement has been prepared on the basis that all operations are continuing operations.

All Steels Trading Limited
Statement of financial position
As at 31 December 2024
12
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
£
£
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
12
3,793,867
3,835,911
Current assets
Stocks
14
29,576,385
24,127,608
Debtors
15
28,030,946
25,523,047
Cash at bank and in hand
1,139,859
605,611
58,747,190
50,256,266
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
16
(35,298,744)
(24,174,843)
Net current assets
23,448,446
26,081,423
Total assets less current liabilities
27,242,313
29,917,334
Provisions for liabilities
Deferred tax liability
19
278,346
202,244
(278,346)
(202,244)
Net assets
26,963,967
29,715,090
Capital and reserves
Called up share capital
21
1,000
1,000
Profit and loss reserves
26,962,967
29,714,090
Total equity
26,963,967
29,715,090
The financial statements were approved by the board of directors and authorised for issue on 9 April 2025 and are signed on its behalf by:
Laurence McDougall
Director
Company Registration No. 04316537
All Steels Trading Limited
Statement of changes in equity
For the year ended 31 December 2024
13
Share capital
Profit and loss reserves
Total
Notes
£
£
£
Balance at 1 January 2023
1,000
28,981,589
28,982,589
Year ended 31 December 2023:
Profit and total comprehensive income
-
1,707,501
1,707,501
Dividends
11
-
(975,000)
(975,000)
Balance at 31 December 2023
1,000
29,714,090
29,715,090
Year ended 31 December 2024:
Profit and total comprehensive income
-
1,238,377
1,238,377
Dividends
11
-
(3,989,500)
(3,989,500)
Balance at 31 December 2024
1,000
26,962,967
26,963,967
All Steels Trading Limited
Notes to the financial statements
For the year ended 31 December 2024
14
1
Accounting policies
Company information

All Steels Trading Limited is a private company limited by shares incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is Vulcan House, York Road, Thirsk, North Yorkshire, YO7 3BT.

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:

 

 

The financial statements of the company are consolidated in the financial statements of All Steels Trading Holdings Limited. These consolidated financial statements are available from its registered office, Vulcan House, York Road, Thirsk, North Yorkshire, England, YO7 3BT.

1.2
Going concern

At the time of approving the financial statements, the directors are confident that the Company has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future.true

 

The financial forecasts have been reviewed and sensitised and these show the Company remaining profitable and trading within borrowing facilities. The Company retains the support of HSBC and are pleased to confirm that the facilities are sufficient to meet the anticipated requirements for the forthcoming year. Based on the detailed forecasts, healthy current trading position and this continued support, the directors are confident that the company will remain a going concern.

 

Thus the directors continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

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.

All Steels Trading Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
1
Accounting policies (continued)
15

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
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.

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:

Freehold land and buildings
2% on buildings only
Land and buildings Leasehold
Straight line over the term of the lease
Plant and machinery
14% - 33% straight line
Computer equipment
33% 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.

1.5
Impairment of fixed assets

At each reporting period end date, the company reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible 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.

1.6
Stocks

Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to sell, which is equivalent to net realisable value.

Cost is determined on the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. Cost includes the purchase price, including taxes and duties and transport and handling directly attributable to bringing the inventory to its present location and condition.

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.

All Steels Trading Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
1
Accounting policies (continued)
16
1.7
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.

1.8
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 statement of financial position 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 trade and other debtors, amounts owed by group undertakings and accrued income, 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.

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.

All Steels Trading Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
1
Accounting policies (continued)
17
Basic financial liabilities

Basic financial liabilities, including trade and other 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

Derivatives, including 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.

1.9
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.

1.10
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 income statement 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.

All Steels Trading Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
1
Accounting policies (continued)
18
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. Where items recognised in other comprehensive income or equity are chargeable to or deductible for tax purposes, the resulting current or deferred tax expense or income is presented in the same component of comprehensive income or equity as the transaction or other event that resulted in the tax expense or income. 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.

1.11
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.

1.12
Retirement benefits

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

1.13
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 statement of financial position 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.

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.

1.14
Foreign exchange

Transactions in currencies other than pounds sterling are recorded at the rates of exchange prevailing at the dates of the transactions. At each reporting end date, monetary assets and liabilities that are denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the rates prevailing on the reporting end date. Gains and losses arising on translation in the period are included in profit or loss.

All Steels Trading Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
19
2
Critical accounting 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 value 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

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.

Provisions

Provision is made for bad and doubtful debts and impaired stock. These provisions require management's best estimate of the recoverability of trade debtors and the expected future use of stock.

3
Turnover and other revenue

An analysis of the company's turnover is as follows:

2024
2023
£
£
Turnover analysed by class of business
Sale of goods
85,813,411
97,203,004
2024
2023
£
£
Turnover analysed by geographical market
United Kingdom
77,237,070
87,861,823
Overseas
8,576,341
9,341,181
85,813,411
97,203,004
2024
2023
£
£
Other revenue
Interest income
12,418
358,926
All Steels Trading Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
20
4
Operating profit
2024
2023
Operating profit for the year is stated after charging:
£
£
Foreign exchange losses
346,598
136,048
Fees payable to the company's auditor for the audit of the company's financial statements
25,850
21,750
Fees payable to the company's auditor for non-audit services
25,197
8,700
Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets
506,557
147,214
Cost of stocks recognised as an expense
77,205,830
88,564,330
Operating lease charges
93,481
94,243
5
Employees

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

2024
2023
Number
Number
Administrative staff
18
14
Management staff
7
7
Drivers
2
1
Total
27
22

Their aggregate remuneration comprised:

2024
2023
£
£
Wages and salaries
1,716,516
1,631,356
Social security costs
174,841
150,984
Pension costs
101,941
55,905
1,993,298
1,838,245
6
Directors' remuneration
2024
2023
£
£
Remuneration for qualifying services
810,663
910,683
Company pension contributions to defined contribution schemes
60,705
33,614
871,368
944,297

The number of directors for whom retirement benefits are accruing under defined contribution schemes amounted to 5 (2023 - 5).

All Steels Trading Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
6
Directors' remuneration (continued)
21
Remuneration disclosed above include the following amounts paid to the highest paid director:
2024
2023
£
£
Remuneration for qualifying services
192,210
166,836
7
Interest receivable and similar income
2024
2023
£
£
Interest income
Other interest income
12,418
358,926
8
Interest payable and similar expenses
2024
2023
£
£
Interest on bank overdrafts and loans
1,310,650
1,119,970
Interest on finance leases and hire purchase contracts
2,620
5,167
1,313,270
1,125,137
9
Other gains and losses
2024
2023
£
£
Fair value gains/(losses) on financial instruments
Change in the value of financial liabilities held at fair value through profit or loss
767,379
(22,193)

As described in accounting policy 1.8 and further in note 13, derivative forward currency contracts are measured at fair value by reference to the relevant forward exchange rates at the year-end, with the movement taken through profit and loss, as presented above. The contracts mature within 6 months (2023: 8 months) of the year-end. The directors consider that the criteria for adopting hedge accounting as set out in FRS102 have not been met in relation to the contracts in place at the year-end and thus the fair value of the corresponding hedged items has not been measured.

All Steels Trading Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
22
10
Taxation
2024
2023
£
£
Current tax
UK corporation tax on profits for the current period
618,401
450,373
Adjustments in respect of prior periods
(132,901)
-
0
Total current tax
485,500
450,373
Deferred tax
Origination and reversal of timing differences
76,102
142,257
Total tax charge
561,602
592,630

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

2024
2023
£
£
Profit before taxation
1,799,979
2,300,131
Expected tax charge based on the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 25.00% (2023: 23.52%)
449,995
540,991
Tax effect of expenses that are not deductible in determining taxable profit
75,220
36,756
Under/(over) provided in prior years
22,159
4,934
Fixed asset differences
14,228
-
0
Deferred tax adjustment for changes in tax rate
-
0
10,991
Other
-
0
(1,042)
Taxation charge for the year
561,602
592,630
11
Dividends
2024
2023
2024
2023
Per share
Per share
Total
Total
£
£
£
£
Ordinary shares
Interim paid
398.95
97.50
3,989,500
975,000
All Steels Trading Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
23
12
Tangible fixed assets
Freehold land and buildings
Land and buildings Leasehold
Plant and machinery
Computer equipment
Total
£
£
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 January 2024
2,348,535
502,809
2,245,602
49,035
5,145,981
Additions
83,817
34,642
346,054
-
0
464,513
Transfers
(1,382,353)
1,382,353
-
0
-
0
-
0
At 31 December 2024
1,049,999
1,919,804
2,591,656
49,035
5,610,494
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 January 2024
-
0
219,698
1,041,337
49,035
1,310,070
Depreciation charged in the year
15,750
155,694
335,113
-
0
506,557
At 31 December 2024
15,750
375,392
1,376,450
49,035
1,816,627
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2024
1,034,249
1,544,412
1,215,206
-
0
3,793,867
At 31 December 2023
2,348,535
283,111
1,204,265
-
0
3,835,911
13
Financial instruments
2024
2023
£
£
Carrying amount of financial assets
Instruments measured at fair value through profit or loss
496,067
-
Carrying amount of financial liabilities
Measured at fair value through profit or loss
- Other financial liabilities
-
271,312
Hedging arrangements

The Company enters into forward foreign currency contracts to mitigate the exchange rate risk for certain foreign currency payables. At 31 December 2024, the outstanding contracts all mature within 6 months (2023: 8 months) of the year end. The Group is committed to buy US$19,900,000 (2023: US$20,790,000), and sell US$nil (2023: US$nil) and buy €nil (2023: €nil) and sell €nil (2023: €nil) and pay/receive a fixed sterling amount.

 

Forward currency contracts are measured at fair value, which is determined using valuation techniques that utilise observable inputs. The key inputs used in valuing the derivatives are the forward exchange rates for GBP:USD and GBP:EUR. The fair value of the forward foreign currency contracts is an asset of £511,382 and a liability of £15,315 (2023: asset: £1,280 and a liability of £272,592). The directors consider that the criteria for adopting hedge accounting as set out in FRS102 have not been met in relation to these contracts and thus the fair value of the corresponding hedged items has not been measured.

All Steels Trading Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
24
14
Stocks
2024
2023
£
£
Finished goods and goods for resale
29,576,385
24,127,608
15
Debtors
2024
2023
Amounts falling due within one year:
£
£
Trade debtors
25,134,894
23,483,518
Amounts owed by group undertakings
1,250,506
1,240,506
Derivative financial instruments
496,067
-
Other debtors
791,579
116,001
Prepayments and accrued income
357,900
683,022
28,030,946
25,523,047
16
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
Bank loans
17
21,696,196
13,380,966
Obligations under finance leases
18
-
0
31,506
Trade creditors
11,282,121
9,736,370
Corporation tax
234,967
16,830
Other taxation and social security
1,425,745
82,808
Derivative financial instruments
-
0
271,312
Other creditors
664
727
Accruals and deferred income
659,051
654,324
35,298,744
24,174,843
17
Loans and overdrafts
2024
2023
£
£
Bank loans
21,696,196
13,380,966
Payable within one year
21,696,196
13,380,966

Bank borrowings are secured by a debenture dated 16 April 2010, a fixed and floating charge over all assets of the Company dated 7 May 2010, and a legal assignment dated 22 June 2010.

 

All Steels Trading Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
25
18
Finance lease obligations
2024
2023
Future minimum lease payments due under finance leases:
£
£
Within one year
-
0
31,506

Finance lease payments represent rentals payable by the company for certain items of plant and machinery. Leases include purchase options at the end of the lease period, and no restrictions are placed on the use of the assets. All leases are on a fixed repayment basis and no arrangements have been entered into for contingent rental payments. The leases are secured over the assets to which they relate.

19
Deferred taxation

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset where the company has a legally enforceable right to do so. The following is the analysis of the deferred tax balances (after offset) for financial reporting purposes:

Liabilities
Liabilities
2024
2023
Balances:
£
£
Accelerated capital allowances
368,985
355,397
Short term timing differences
(90,639)
(153,153)
278,346
202,244
2024
Movements in the year:
£
Liability at 1 January 2024
202,244
Charge to profit or loss
76,102
Liability at 31 December 2024
278,346
20
Retirement benefit schemes
2024
2023
Defined contribution schemes
£
£
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes
101,941
55,905

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.

21
Share capital
2024
2023
2024
2023
Ordinary share capital
Number
Number
£
£
Issued and fully paid
Ordinary shares of 10p each
10,000
10,000
1,000
1,000
All Steels Trading Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
21
Share capital (continued)
26

Each ordinary share has voting rights, rights to dividends and to participate in a distribution.

22
Capital commitments

Amounts contracted for but not provided in the financial statements:

2024
2023
£
£
Acquisition of tangible fixed assets
2,100,000
2,400,000
23
Operating lease commitments
Lessee

At the reporting 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
42,500
42,500
Between two and five years
127,500
170,000
170,000
212,500
All Steels Trading Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
27
24
Related party transactions
Transactions with related parties

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

Sales
Sales
Purchases
Purchases
2024
2023
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
Entities under common control
15,753,571
17,148,587
4,488,991
5,756,777
Recharges to
2024
2023
£
£
Entities under common control
266,725
575,027

The following amounts were outstanding by related parties at the reporting date:

2024
2023
Amounts due to related parties
£
£
Entities under common control
464,944
871,045

The following amounts were outstanding at the reporting end date:

2024
2023
Amounts due from related parties
£
£
Entities under common control
9,736,099
8,467,617

Interest of £nil (2023: £7,949) was charged in the year on amounts due from related entities. Interest of £nil (2023:£350,977) was charged in respect of overdue receivables from related entities.

 

In the year ended the 31 December 2023, interest was charged on amounts due from Bromford Iron Limited. This has been removed in the year ended 31 December 2024, given the fact Bromford Iron Limited is in the process of going through a managed closure.

Other information

The company occupies a property owned by a pension scheme set up for the benefit of one of its directors. During the current year, rent of £83,748 (2023: £83,750) was paid to the pension scheme in respect of this property.

 

All Steels Trading Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
For the year ended 31 December 2024
28
25
Ultimate controlling party

The immediate and ultimate parent undertaking, and the smallest and largest group to consolidate these financial statements is All Steels Trading Holdings Limited, a company registered in England and Wales. All Steels Trading Holdings Limited prepares group financial statements which include the results of All Steels Trading Limited. The registered office of All Steels Trading Holdings Limited is Vulcan House, York Road, Thirsk, YO7 3BT.

Laurence McDougall is the ultimate controlling party by virtue of owning the majority of the issued share capital of All Steels Trading Holdings Limited.

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