Caseware UK (AP4) 2024.0.164 2024.0.164 2024-12-312024-12-31861falsetrue795truetruetruetrue2024-01-01The principal activity of the compnay throughout the year was the sale and provision of services in respect of commercial vehicles and the sale of spare parts for commercial vehicles and trailers.falsefalse 02495131 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 2023-01-01 2023-12-31 02495131 2024-12-31 02495131 2023-12-31 02495131 2023-01-01 02495131 4 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 4 2023-01-01 2023-12-31 02495131 1 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 e:CompanySecretary1 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 e:Director1 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 e:Director2 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 e:Director3 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 e:Director4 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 e:Director5 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 e:Director6 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 e:Director7 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 e:Director8 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 e:Director8 2024-12-31 02495131 e:Director9 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 e:Director9 2024-12-31 02495131 e:RegisteredOffice 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 d:Buildings 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 d:Buildings 2024-12-31 02495131 d:Buildings 2023-12-31 02495131 d:Buildings d:OwnedOrFreeholdAssets 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 d:Buildings d:LongLeaseholdAssets 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 d:Buildings d:LongLeaseholdAssets 2024-12-31 02495131 d:Buildings d:LongLeaseholdAssets 2023-12-31 02495131 d:Buildings d:ShortLeaseholdAssets 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 d:PlantMachinery 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 d:PlantMachinery 2024-12-31 02495131 d:PlantMachinery 2023-12-31 02495131 d:PlantMachinery d:OwnedOrFreeholdAssets 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 d:MotorVehicles 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 d:MotorVehicles 2024-12-31 02495131 d:MotorVehicles 2023-12-31 02495131 d:MotorVehicles d:OwnedOrFreeholdAssets 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 d:OwnedOrFreeholdAssets 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 d:Goodwill 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 d:Goodwill 2024-12-31 02495131 d:Goodwill 2023-12-31 02495131 d:CurrentFinancialInstruments 2024-12-31 02495131 d:CurrentFinancialInstruments 2023-12-31 02495131 d:Non-currentFinancialInstruments 2024-12-31 02495131 d:Non-currentFinancialInstruments 2023-12-31 02495131 d:CurrentFinancialInstruments d:WithinOneYear 2024-12-31 02495131 d:CurrentFinancialInstruments d:WithinOneYear 2023-12-31 02495131 d:Non-currentFinancialInstruments d:AfterOneYear 2024-12-31 02495131 d:Non-currentFinancialInstruments d:AfterOneYear 2023-12-31 02495131 d:Non-currentFinancialInstruments d:BetweenOneTwoYears 2024-12-31 02495131 d:Non-currentFinancialInstruments d:BetweenOneTwoYears 2023-12-31 02495131 d:Non-currentFinancialInstruments d:BetweenTwoFiveYears 2024-12-31 02495131 d:Non-currentFinancialInstruments d:BetweenTwoFiveYears 2023-12-31 02495131 d:ReportableOperatingSegment1 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 d:ReportableOperatingSegment1 2023-01-01 2023-12-31 02495131 d:ReportableOperatingSegment2 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 d:ReportableOperatingSegment2 2023-01-01 2023-12-31 02495131 d:ReportableOperatingSegment3 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 d:ReportableOperatingSegment3 2023-01-01 2023-12-31 02495131 d:UKTax 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 d:UKTax 2023-01-01 2023-12-31 02495131 d:ShareCapital 2024-12-31 02495131 d:ShareCapital 2023-12-31 02495131 d:ShareCapital 2023-01-01 02495131 d:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 d:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses 2024-12-31 02495131 d:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses 2023-01-01 2023-12-31 02495131 d:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses 2023-12-31 02495131 d:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses 2023-01-01 02495131 d:AcceleratedTaxDepreciationDeferredTax 2024-12-31 02495131 d:AcceleratedTaxDepreciationDeferredTax 2023-12-31 02495131 d:RetirementBenefitObligationsDeferredTax 2024-12-31 02495131 d:RetirementBenefitObligationsDeferredTax 2023-12-31 02495131 d:FurtherSpecificTypeProvisionContingentLiability1ComponentTotalProvisionsContingentLiabilities 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 d:FurtherSpecificTypeProvisionContingentLiability1ComponentTotalProvisionsContingentLiabilities 2024-12-31 02495131 d:FurtherSpecificTypeProvisionContingentLiability1ComponentTotalProvisionsContingentLiabilities 2023-12-31 02495131 e:OrdinaryShareClass1 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 e:OrdinaryShareClass1 2024-12-31 02495131 e:OrdinaryShareClass1 2023-12-31 02495131 e:FRS102 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 e:Audited 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 e:FullAccounts 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 e:PrivateLimitedCompanyLtd 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 d:Subsidiary1 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 d:Subsidiary1 1 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 d:WithinOneYear 2024-12-31 02495131 d:WithinOneYear 2023-12-31 02495131 d:BetweenOneFiveYears 2024-12-31 02495131 d:BetweenOneFiveYears 2023-12-31 02495131 d:MoreThanFiveYears 2024-12-31 02495131 d:MoreThanFiveYears 2023-12-31 02495131 d:PlantEquipmentOtherAssetsUnderOperatingLeases 2024-12-31 02495131 d:PlantEquipmentOtherAssetsUnderOperatingLeases 2023-12-31 02495131 d:PlantEquipmentOtherAssetsUnderOperatingLeases d:WithinOneYear 2024-12-31 02495131 d:PlantEquipmentOtherAssetsUnderOperatingLeases d:WithinOneYear 2023-12-31 02495131 d:PlantEquipmentOtherAssetsUnderOperatingLeases d:BetweenOneFiveYears 2024-12-31 02495131 d:PlantEquipmentOtherAssetsUnderOperatingLeases d:BetweenOneFiveYears 2023-12-31 02495131 d:PlantEquipmentOtherAssetsUnderOperatingLeases d:MoreThanFiveYears 2024-12-31 02495131 d:PlantEquipmentOtherAssetsUnderOperatingLeases d:MoreThanFiveYears 2023-12-31 02495131 d:HirePurchaseContracts d:WithinOneYear 2024-12-31 02495131 d:HirePurchaseContracts d:WithinOneYear 2023-12-31 02495131 d:HirePurchaseContracts d:BetweenOneFiveYears 2024-12-31 02495131 d:HirePurchaseContracts d:BetweenOneFiveYears 2023-12-31 02495131 d:HirePurchaseContracts d:MoreThanFiveYears 2024-12-31 02495131 d:HirePurchaseContracts d:MoreThanFiveYears 2023-12-31 02495131 2 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 6 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 d:Goodwill d:OwnedIntangibleAssets 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 02495131 f:PoundSterling 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 iso4217:GBP xbrli:shares xbrli:pure

Registered number: 02495131










FORD & SLATER LIMITED










ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
COMPANY INFORMATION


Directors
T M Strevens 
N J Strevens 
C J Hutt 
H Y Patel 
A J Roebuck 
K R Spurway 
H Teasdale 
D R E Hunt (resigned 29 February 2024)
P A Hulley (appointed 1 April 2025)




Company secretary
N J Strevens



Registered number
02495131



Registered office
Hazel Drive
Narborough Road South

Leicester

LE3 2JG




Independent auditor
MHA
Statutory Auditors

11 Merus Court

Meridian Business Park

Leicester

LE19 1RJ





 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 

CONTENTS



Page
Strategic Report
 
1 - 5
Directors' Report
 
6 - 8
Directors' Responsibilities Statement
 
9
Independent Auditor's Report
 
10 - 13
Statement of Comprehensive Income
 
14
Balance Sheet
 
15 - 16
Statement of Changes in Equity
 
17
Notes to the Financial Statements
 
18 - 44


 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
STRATEGIC REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Introduction
 
The directors present their Strategic Report for Ford & Slater Limited (the 'Company') for the year ended 31 December 2024.
Principal activities
The principal activity of the Company throughout the year was the sale and provision of services in respect of commercial vehicles and the sale of spare parts for commercial vehicles and trailers.
Ford & Slater Limited is one of the largest DAF sales dealers in the UK.
Business review
The Company performance represented a year of steady progress.
Whilst economic growth slowed significantly in the second half of the year, UK GDP increased by 0.9% in 2024 following a 0.4% increase in 2023. The Bank of England reduced its Base Rate from 5.25% in December 2023 to 4.75% in December 2024 as inflation returned to lower levels; Consumer Prices Index (CPI) inflation decreased from 4.0% in December 2023 to 2.5% in December 2024.
The UK new truck market (>6 tonnes GVW) decreased by 2.7% from 46,227 units in 2023 to 44,988 units in 2024. DAF Trucks achieved a 28.40% market share >6 tonnes GVW in their 30th year of market leadership.  The new truck supply chain situation, in particular bodybuilder delays, eased significantly during the second half of 2024 thereby enabling the delivery and registration of significant volumes of new trucks to customers.
Certain key performance indicators utilised by the directors to monitor performance are detailed below:
            2024  2023
     
New truck sales (number of invoiced units)      2,311  2,152
MOT First Time Pass percentage (%)       98.3%  98.4%
Parts First Time Pick percentage (%)       94.7%  94.8%
Return on Equity (%)         6.5%  5.1%
Overall turnover increased significantly from £323.2 million in 2023 to £364.6 million in 2024.
The strong performance of the Company was highlighted when DAF Trucks recognised Ford & Slater Limited with a Premium League Dealer Award for excellent all-round dealer performance and the European Electric Truck Dealer Award at the International Dealer Meeting in January 2025.
Vehicle sales revenues increased from £214.1 million in 2023 to £244.7 million in 2024. Although the UK truck market size and DAF Trucks market share were lower in 2024 than in the prior year, the number of trucks sold by the Company was higher as bodybuilder supply chain performance improved during the second half of 2024.  The level of profits generated by vehicle sales increased as a result of the above; Ford & Slater Limited remained one of the larger DAF sales dealers within the UK measured by vehicle registrations and the directors were pleased with the operational and financial performance of the vehicle sales area.

Page 1

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 

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

Business review continued
 
The directors continued to actively promote after sales activities which generate the majority of company profits.
Parts revenues increased from £63.4 million in 2023 to £67.2 million in 2024 due to improved performance from the four dealership locations acquired in September 2022 and significantly higher levels of DAF Trucks manufacturer warranty activity. However, the overall level of profits generated by the parts business area was below 2023 due partly to ongoing gross profit margin pressures; in addition the Company achieved fewer of the quarterly parts purchasing targets set by PACCAR Inc. Parts.
Service revenues increased from £45.7 million in 2023 to £52.6 million in 2024, in part due to customer rate increases. The Company continued to develop its highly successful HGV Apprentice program to mitigate the continued shortage of HGV technicians and HGV technician salary inflation. The overall level of service profits was ahead of the prior year level.
Administrative expenses increased due to higher business activity levels and the annual pay increase, while sensible cost control and efficiency measures operated across the Company after a period of significant growth and inflationary pressures.
The level of profits achieved on the disposal of fixed assets equalled £0.8 million in 2024, a similar level to £0.7 million in 2023.
The Company’s interest expense equalled £2.6 million in 2024, a similar level to £2.7 million in 2023. The phasing of hire purchase borrowings arranged/repaid in relation to revenue generating vehicles, as well as upwards and downwards movements in the Bank of England Base Rate did mean that the monthly interest costs in the second half of 2024 were on a downward trend.
As a result of the above factors, the Company’s profit before taxation of £2.6 million in 2024 was higher than the prior year level of £1.2 million.
The pension scheme asset, calculated on an FRS 102 ‘Retirement Benefits’ basis, included within the Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2024 equals £9.8 million (2023: pension scheme asset of £7.7 million). The constituent elements are discussed further within note 26 to the financial statements.
Fixed asset additions to revenue generating vehicles decreased from £30.3 million in 2023 to £2.4 million in 2024, as a result of the Company’s decision to reduce the size of its contract hire portfolio.
The Company net debt position as at 31 December 2024 was £26.3 million (2023 net debt: £46.7 million); this significant decrease in borrowings was mainly due to the repayment of hire purchase debt agreements to finance long-term contract hire agreements supplying new DAF vehicles to certain key customers.
New truck stock and trade creditors (mainly comprising amounts owed to PACCAR in respect of new vehicles) were lower as at 31 December 2024 due to the delivery of new trucks to customers in the second half of 2024 whilst new truck order volumes were lower. The great majority of factory build orders placed with DAF Trucks are covered by customer capital expenditure purchase orders due to their high value and specialist nature.

Page 2

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 

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

Principal risks and uncertainties
 
In common with industry norms, the Company generally purchases new trucks with the assistance of dealer stocking plan arrangements provided by PACCAR. The dealer stocking plan arrangements include the requirement that vehicles need to be paid for in full at 180 days from date of invoice.
In the event that the Company is unable to complete the sale of new vehicles within the above timescale, it may need to obtain similar financing from other sources. This risk is addressed through our strong manufacturer relationship and the excellent support PACCAR continues to provide to its most loyal dealers, our unutilised borrowing capacity and a wide range of actions the Company could pursue to dispose of stock vehicles amongst our diverse truck sales customer base, if necessary.
The Company’s commercial risks include repair and maintenance contracts and residual values. The Company maintains vehicles to manufacturer standards in the most cost-effective manner, thereby minimising whole life maintenance costs and ensuring high resale values. The Company reviews its residual values through the life of a contract and makes adjustments accordingly.
The majority of profits are generated from the DAF Trucks franchise. However, the DAF sales franchise agreements continue indefinitely provided that minimum sales targets and dealer standards set by the manufacturer are met; and the directors see no reason why these franchise agreements will not continue for the foreseeable future. Whilst there is a degree of customer concentration for new truck sales this risk is mitigated by a diverse customer base for parts and service sales and regular dialogue with key customers.

Page 3

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 

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

Directors' statement of compliance with duty to promote the success of the Company
 
Section S172 Statement
The success of the Company is dependent on the support of all of our stakeholders. Building positive relationships with stakeholders that share our values, those of a family-owned company that takes decisions with a long-term view in mind, is extremely important to us.
Employees
Employees are key to our success and we want them to succeed individually and as a team. The Company engages with employees through stories shared on the Ford & Slater Limited website, X, Instagram and LinkedIn. Regular supervisor meetings cover a range of topics such as health and safety, financial performance, outlook and training opportunities. The Company carefully monitors staff turnover to better understand the reasons why staff have opted to pursue alternative career opportunities. The apprentice panel offers trainees the opportunity to have their say on issues affecting the Company and apprentices. Company newsletters are regularly distributed to keep all employees informed of developments.
Shareholders
The directors include the two main shareholders that both work full-time in their role as Joint Managing Directors.  With significant shareholder input as would be expected, the directors take care to have regard to the likely consequences on all stakeholders of the decisions and actions which they take. Where possible, decisions are carefully discussed with affected employees and are therefore fully understood and supported by them.
Customers
Our mission statement is to exceed our customer’s expectations by offering high quality transport services in an ethical manner at competitive prices. The Company seeks to achieve this by utilising the synergies within our dealership group, offering innovative solutions and a “one-stop shop” provided by highly motivated and skilled long-term employees, reinvesting profits to provide modern, safe premises. The directors spend considerable time with our customers to understand their needs and views and listen to how we can improve our offer and service for them.
Suppliers
DAF Trucks is our sole manufacturer relationship, consequently our interests are wholly aligned with DAF Trucks, unlike other dealers with competing manufacturer relationships. DAF Trucks is a subsidiary of PACCAR Inc., the worldwide quality leader in the design and manufacture of premium light, medium and heavy-duty commercial vehicles. The directors invest significant time and effort to build excellent relationships throughout the PACCAR Inc. organisation, including through the National and International Dealer Councils where Ford & Slater Limited holds a number of influential positions.
Communities
The Company is committed to make a positive contribution to our local communities. Corporate and social responsibility is important because (a) it benefits our local communities and improves the environment, (b) it enables the directors to gain a better understanding of the communities we work and live in; and (c) it encourages team spirit and builds positive employee morale and engagement.
The Company has been working alongside Leicestershire Cares since 2008, an initiative of Business in the Community, and this connection enables our workforce to become involved in a wide number of community initiatives.
 
Page 4

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 

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


Regulators
The Company engages with regulators such as the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and the SMMT through a range of forums to communicate our views to policy makers relevant to our business. The directors take legal and regulatory developments into account when considering future actions.
Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting
The Company is a subsidiary of Strevens Vehicles Holdings Limited and therefore the SECR disclosures required in relation to both Strevens Vehicles Limited and the Company have been included in the Strevens Vehicles Limited Annual Report on pages 5 - 7. The Strevens Vehicles Limited Annual Report has been prepared for the same financial year as the Company.


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



................................................
N J Strevens
Director

Date: 16 September 2025

Page 5

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

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

Results and dividends

The profit for the year, after taxation, amounted to £1,750,396 (2023 - £1,237,291).

Dividends totalling £Nil (2023: £Nil) have been declared and paid during the year. No further dividends have been declared or paid post 31 December 2024.

Directors

The directors who served during the year were:

T M Strevens 
N J Strevens 
C J Hutt 
H Y Patel 
A J Roebuck 
K R Spurway 
H Teasdale 
D R E Hunt (resigned 29 February 2024)
P A Hulley (appointed 1 April 2025)
 

Future developments

As per the SMMT registration statistics, truck market registrations (> 6 tonnes) decreased from 46,227 units in 2023 to 44,988 units in 2024, nevertheless this represented a normal level of UK truck market registrations.
During the first half of 2024, a number of truck manufacturers including DAF Trucks suffered registration delays associated with the introduction of industry-wide General Safety Regulations and Cyber Security improvements. These were substantially overcome by the third quarter of 2024, but lead times also shortened significantly during the year ended 31 December 2024 due to lower new truck market demand.
The latest 2025 market forecast suggests a further 5% decrease to approximately 39,900 registrations in 2025 with an uncertain economic outlook, the ongoing war in Ukraine, conflict in the Middle East and a downward trend borrowing costs.
The UK truck market should be closely related to GDP, business and consumer confidence. The need for increasingly fuel-efficient, environmentally cleaner new HGVs with enhanced safety features (to protect vulnerable road users) to enter UK cities provides a medium-term underpin to the UK truck market and there remain limited alternatives to road transportation generally. It is widely acknowledged that de-carbonization of the HGV transport sector is more challenging than replacing the combustion engine within cars and vans; it will progress more slowly and occur over a longer timeframe.
The 2025 aftersales forecast is for service revenues to increase due to higher hourly labour charge-out rates, whilst parts sales are forecast to decrease as a result of the lower age of the UK HGV vehicle parc; the Company continues to focus on margin retention through productivity and efficiency gains. Activity levels remain strong and the Company remains well placed to take advantage of any market opportunities that may be presented.
Based on anticipated market trends and current activity levels, the Company outlook is positive in terms of overall profitability. The Strevens Vehicles Holdings Limited group (the ‘Group’) cash position and net asset position of the Company (and the Group) demonstrate adequate resources to adopt the going concern basis.

 
Page 6

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

The directors believe that our loyal employees, strong manufacturer relationship and diverse customer base should provide the Company with future opportunities.
 

Financial risk management
The Company has both interest bearing assets and interest bearing liabilities. Interest bearing assets comprise only cash balances, interest bearing liabilities comprise only hire purchase commitments. The assets and liabilities are subject to interest rate fluctuations.
The Company is exposed to liquidity risk. The Company has committed financing facilities through its parent undertaking which regularly monitors available cash balances and facilities to ensure that the Company has sufficient funds to meet its obligations. The Company does not enter into derivative financial instruments, including interest rate swaps and foreign exchange contracts. 
The Company is exposed to credit risk as a result of its operations. Prior to sales being made, appropriate checks are performed over the ability of the customer to pay. Regular reviews of credit limits and monitoring of the aged debtors ledger are utilised to minimise the risk to the Company on an ongoing basis. Customer credit risk is partially mitigated by the relatively high number of individual transactions that are undertaken with new vehicle sales customers during the course of a year.

Engagement with employees

During the year, the policy of providing employees with information about the Company has continued through internal media in which employees have been encouraged to present their suggestions and views on the Company’s performance. Regular meetings are held between local management and employees to allow the free flow of information and ideas.

Directors’ indemnity

The Company’s Articles of Association provide, subject to the provisions of UK legislation, an indemnity for directors and officers of the Company in respect of liabilities they may incur in the discharge of their duties or in the exercise of their powers, including any liabilities relating to the defence of any proceedings brought against them which relate to anything done or omitted, by them as officers or employees of the Company.
Appropriate directors’ and officers’ liability insurance cover is in place in respect of all the Company’s directors.

Disabled employees

The Company gives full consideration to applications for employment from disabled persons where the requirements of the job can be adequately fulfilled by a disabled person. Where existing employees become disabled, it is the Company’s policy wherever practicable to provide continuing employment under normal terms and conditions and to provide training, career development and promotion to disabled employees wherever appropriate.
Employee involvement
During the year, the policy of providing employees with information about the Company has continued through internal media in which employees have been encouraged to present their suggestions and views on the Company’s performance. Regular meetings are held between local management and employees to allow the free flow of information and ideas.

Page 7

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Disclosure of information to auditor

Each of the persons who are directors at the time when this Directors' Report is approved has confirmed that:
 
so far as the director is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the Company's auditor is unaware; and

the director has taken all the steps that ought to have been taken as a director in order to be aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the Company's auditor is aware of that information.

Post balance sheet events

On 12 September 2025, Ford & Slater signed for the purchase of the Sheffield freehold dealership located at Orgreave Drive, Sheffield for a consideration of £1,100,000. The completion date has been agreed as 29 September 2025.  As the purchase was agreed and completed after the balance sheet date, no adjustment has been made to the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2024.
There have been no further significant events affecting the Group since the year end.

Independent Auditor

The auditor, MHA, previously traded through the legal entity MacIntyre Hudson LLP. In response to regulatory changes, MacIntyre Hudson LLP ceased to hold an audit registration with the engagement transitioning to MHA Audit Services LLP.
MHA will be proposed for reappointment in accordance with section 485 of the Companies Act 2006.

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





................................................
N J Strevens
Director

Date: 16 September 2025

Page 8

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITIES STATEMENT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

The directors are responsible for preparing the Strategic Report, the Directors' 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 applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice), including Financial Reporting Standard 102 ‘The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland'. 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 for the Company's financial statements and then apply them consistently;

make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent;

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

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

The directors are responsible for 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 to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006They 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.

Page 9

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 

Opinion


We have audited the financial statements of Ford & Slater Limited (the 'Company') for the year ended 31 December 2024, which comprise the Statement of Comprehensive Income, the Balance Sheet, the Statement of Changes in Equity and the related notes, including a summary of significant accounting policiesThe 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 31 December 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.


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 United Kingdom, including the Financial Reporting Council's Ethical Standard and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.


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.


Page 10

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF FORD & SLATER LIMITED (CONTINUED)


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 ReportOur 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.


Opinion on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006
 

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


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:


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 directors' 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 set out on page 9, 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.


Page 11

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF FORD & SLATER LIMITED (CONTINUED)


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.


Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below:
 
enquiry of management and those charged with governance around actual, potential or suspected litigation, claims, non-compliance with applicable laws and regulations and fraud;
enquiry of entity staff in tax and compliance functions and external advisors to identify any instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations;
performing audit work over the risk of management override, including testing of journal entries and other adjustments for appropriateness, evaluating the business rationale of significant transactions outside the normal course of business and reviewing accounting estimates for bias;
reviewing the financial statements disclosures and testing these to supporting documentation to assess compliance with applicable laws and regulations;
discussions amongst the engagement team in relation to how and where fraud might occur in the financial statements and potential indicators of fraud; and
reviewing minutes of meetings of those charged with governance. 
 
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 for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our Auditor's Report.


Page 12

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF FORD & SLATER LIMITED (CONTINUED)


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 2006Our 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.




Shelley Harvey FCCA (Senior Statutory Auditor)
for and on behalf of MHA, Statutory Auditor,
Leicester, United Kingdom

Date: 
MHA is the trading name of MHA Audit Services LLP, a limited liability partnership in England and Wales (registered number OC455542).





  
 

16 September 2025
Page 13

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2024
2023
Note
£
£

  

Turnover
 4 
364,584,874
323,238,250

Cost of sales
  
(299,610,735)
(260,439,022)

Gross profit
  
64,974,139
62,799,228

Administrative expenses
  
(60,201,411)
(59,211,946)

Operating profit
 5 
4,772,728
3,587,282

Interest receivable and similar income
 9 
486,944
355,030

Interest payable and similar expenses
 10 
(2,622,597)
(2,735,202)

Profit before tax
  
2,637,075
1,207,110

Tax on profit
 11 
(886,679)
30,181

Profit for the financial year
  
1,750,396
1,237,291

Other comprehensive income for the year
  

Actuarial gains on defined benefit pension scheme
 26 
1,557,000
133,500

Movement of deferred tax relating to pension asset
  
(389,250)
(33,000)

Other comprehensive income for the year
  
1,167,750
100,500

Total comprehensive income for the year
  
2,918,146
1,337,791

There were no recognised gains and losses for 2024 or 2023 other than those included in the Statement of Comprehensive Income.

The notes on pages 18 to 44 form part of these financial statements.

Page 14

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
REGISTERED NUMBER: 02495131

BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024

2024
2023
Note
£
£

Fixed assets
  

Intangible assets
 12 
2,787,500
3,241,733

Tangible assets
 13 
48,187,353
58,991,568

Investments
 14 
2
2

  
50,974,855
62,233,303

Current assets
  

Stocks
 15 
101,845,089
120,194,885

Debtors: amounts falling due within one year
 16 
25,892,577
33,365,120

Cash at bank and in hand
 17 
6,845,377
1,951,828

Current liabilities
  
134,583,043
155,511,833

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
 18 
(141,979,751)
(162,946,197)

Net current liabilities
  
 
 
(7,396,708)
 
 
(7,434,364)

Total assets less current liabilities
  
43,578,147
54,798,939

Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year
 19 
(22,238,425)
(35,100,150)

Provisions for liabilities
  

Deferred tax
 22 
(4,132,510)
(2,969,723)

Other provisions
 23 
-
(360,000)

  
 
 
(4,132,510)
 
 
(3,329,723)

Pension asset
 26 
9,773,000
7,693,000

Net assets
  
26,980,212
24,062,066


Capital and reserves
  

Called up share capital 
 24 
100,000
100,000

Profit and loss account
  
26,880,212
23,962,066

  
26,980,212
24,062,066


Page 15

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
REGISTERED NUMBER: 02495131
    
BALANCE SHEET (CONTINUED)
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024

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




................................................
H Y Patel
Director

Date: 16 September 2025

The notes on pages 18 to 44 form part of these financial statements.

Page 16

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 

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


Called up share capital
Profit and loss account
Total equity

£
£
£


At 1 January 2023
100,000
22,624,275
22,724,275



Profit for the year
-
1,237,291
1,237,291

Actuarial gains on pension scheme
-
100,500
100,500



At 1 January 2024
100,000
23,962,066
24,062,066



Profit for the year
-
1,750,396
1,750,396

Actuarial gains on pension scheme
-
1,167,750
1,167,750


At 31 December 2024
100,000
26,880,212
26,980,212


The notes on pages 18 to 44 form part of these financial statements.

Profit and loss account
The profit and loss account represents cumulative profits and losses of the Company.

Page 17

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

1.


General information

The entity is a private company limited by shares, which is incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office address is Hazel Drive, Narborough Road South, Leicester England LE3 2JG. The Company registration number is 02495131. 
The principal activity of the Company is the sales and provision of services in respect of commercial vehicles and the sale of spare parts for the commercial vehicles and trailers.

2.Accounting policies

 
2.1

Basis of preparation of financial statements

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention unless otherwise specified within these accounting policies and in accordance with Financial Reporting Standard 102, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and the Republic of Ireland and the Companies Act 2006.

The preparation of financial statements in compliance with FRS 102 requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also requires management to exercise judgement in applying the Company's accounting policies (see note 3).

The financial statements have been presented in British Pound Sterling (£) 

The following principal accounting policies have been applied:

 
2.2

Financial Reporting Standard 102 - reduced disclosure exemptions

The Company has taken advantage of the following disclosure exemptions in preparing these financial statements, as permitted by the FRS 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland":
the requirements of Section 7 Statement of Cash Flows;
the requirements of Section 3 Financial Statement Presentation paragraph 3.17(d);
the requirements of Section 11 Financial Instruments paragraphs 11.42, 11.44 to 11.45, 11.47, 11.48(a)(iii), 11.48(a)(iv), 11.48(b) and 11.48(c);
the requirements of Section 12 Other Financial Instruments paragraphs 12.26 to 12.27, 12.29(a), 12.29(b) and 12.29A;
the requirements of Section 33 Related Party Disclosures paragraph 33.7.

This information is included in the consolidated financial statements of Strevens Vehicles Holdings Limited  as at 31 December 2024 and these financial statements may be obtained from Hazel Drive, Narborough Road South, Leicester England LE3 2JG.

  
2.3

Exemption from preparing consolidated financial statements

The Company is a parent company that is also a subsidiary included in the consolidated financial statements of its immediate parent undertaking incorporated in England and Wales and is therefore exempt from the requirement to prepare consolidated financial statements under section 405 of the Companies Act 2006.

Page 18

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.4

Going concern

After reviewing the Company's forecasts and projections, the directors have a reasonable expectation that the Company has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. The Company therefore continues to adopt the going concern basis in preparing its financial statements. 

  
2.5

Revenue

The revenue shown in the Statement of Comprehensive Income represents amounts receivable or received for goods and services provided during the year, net of value added tax and trade discounts.
Vehicle and part sales are recognised when the risk and rewards of ownership are transferred to the customer and the Company has fulfilled is performance obligations, typically this is upon delivery and acceptance of the goods by the customer. Timing differences between this date and the raising of sales invoices are recognised within deferred and accrued income.
Sales in relation to repairs/servicing are recognised once the work has been completed and the work has been accepted by the customer. Timing differences between this date and the raising of sales invoices are recognised within deferred and accrued income.
Sales in relation to repair and maintenance contracts are recognised in line with the completion of the contractual obligations of the Company under these agreements. The performance of these contracts is monitored on a regular basis by management to ensure that the expected costs to be incurred are adequately covered by deferred income or future contract payments from the customer. When the contract is completed, any remaining deferred revenue is released.
Provisions for loss making contracts are recognised as soon as they are identified and where the outcome of the contract can be predicted with reasonable certainty. Where the degree of certainty over future costs cannot be predicted with a reasonable degree of accuracy, no provisions are made. Amounts received in excess of work performed are shown within deferred income in the Balance Sheet.

 
2.6

Operating leases: the Company as lessor

Rental income from operating leases is credited to the Statement of Comprehensive Income on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

 
2.7

Operating leases: the Company as lessee

Rentals paid under operating leases are charged to the Statement of Comprehensive Income on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

 
2.8

Interest income

Interest income is recognised in the Statement of Comprehensive Income using the effective interest method.

Page 19

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.9

Finance costs

Finance costs are charged to the Statement of Comprehensive Income over the term of the debt using the effective interest method so that the amount charged is at a constant rate on the carrying amount. Issue costs are initially recognised as a reduction in the proceeds of the associated capital instrument.

 
2.10

Borrowing costs

All borrowing costs are recognised in the Statement of Comprehensive Income in the year in which they are incurred.

  
2.11

Hire purchase agreements

Assets obtained under hire purchase agreements are capitalised as tangible fixed assets and are depreciated over their useful lives. Obligations under such agreements are included in creditors net of the finance charge allocated to future periods. The finance element of the rental payment is charge to the Statement of Comprehensive Income so as to produce a constant periodic rate of charge on the net obligation outstanding in each period. 

Page 20

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.12

Pensions

Defined contribution pension plan

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

The contributions are recognised as an expense in the Statement of Comprehensive Income when they fall due. Amounts not paid are shown in accruals as a liability in the Balance Sheet. The assets of the plan are held separately from the Company in independently administered funds.

Defined benefit pension plan

The Company operates a defined benefit plan for certain employees. A defined benefit plan defines the pension benefit that the employee will receive on retirement, usually dependent upon several factors including but not limited to age, length of service and remuneration. A defined benefit plan is a pension plan that is not a defined contribution plan.

The asset recognised in the Balance Sheet in respect of the defined benefit plan is the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the end of the balance sheet date less the fair value of plan assets at the balance sheet date (if any) out of which the obligations are to be settled.

The defined benefit obligation is calculated using the projected unit credit method. Annually the Company engages independent actuaries to calculate the obligation. The present value is determined by discounting the estimated future payments using market yields on high quality corporate bonds that are denominated in sterling and that have terms approximating to the estimated period of the future payments ('discount rate').

The fair value of plan assets is measured in accordance with the FRS102 fair value hierarchy and in accordance with the Company's policy for similarly held assets. This includes the use of appropriate valuation techniques.

Actuarial gains and losses arising from experience adjustments and changes in actuarial assumptions are charged or credited to other comprehensive income. These amounts together with the return on plan assets, less amounts included in net interest, are disclosed as 'Remeasurement of net defined benefit liability'.

The cost of the defined benefit plan, recognised in the Statement of Comprehensive Income as employee costs, except where included in the cost of an asset, comprises:

a) the increase in net pension benefit liability arising from employee service during the period; and

b) the cost of plan introductions, benefit changes, curtailments and settlements.

The net interest cost is calculated by applying the discount rate to the net balance of the defined benefit obligation and the fair value of plan assets. This cost is recognised in the Statement of Comprehensive Income as a 'finance expense'.

Page 21

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.13

Current and deferred taxation

The tax expense for the year comprises current and deferred tax. Tax is recognised in the Statement of Comprehensive Income except that a charge attributable to an item of income and expense recognised as other comprehensive income or to an item recognised directly in equity is also recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity respectively.

The current income tax charge is calculated on the basis of tax rates and laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date in the countries where the Company operates and generates income.

Deferred tax balances are recognised in respect of all timing differences that have originated but not reversed by the balance sheet date, except that:
The recognition of deferred tax assets is limited to the extent that it is probable that they will be recovered against the reversal of deferred tax liabilities or other future taxable profits; and
Any deferred tax balances are reversed if and when all conditions for retaining associated tax allowances have been met.

Deferred tax balances are not recognised in respect of permanent differences except in respect of business combinations, when deferred tax is recognised on the differences between the fair values of assets acquired and the future tax deductions available for them and the differences between the fair values of liabilities acquired and the amount that will be assessed for tax. Deferred tax is determined using tax rates and laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date.


 
2.14

Intangible assets

Goodwill

Goodwill represents the difference between amounts paid on the cost of a business combination and the acquirer’s interest in the fair value of its identifiable assets and liabilities of the acquiree at the date of acquisition. Subsequent to initial recognition, goodwill is measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill is amortised on a straight-line basis to the Statement of Comprehensive Income over its useful economic life.

Intangible assets are initially recognised at cost. After recognition, under the cost model, intangible assets are measured at cost less any accumulated amortisation and any accumulated impairment losses.

All intangible assets are considered to have a finite useful life. If a reliable estimate of the useful life cannot be made, the useful life shall not exceed ten years.

 
2.15

Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets under the cost model are stated at historical cost less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses. Historical cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable to bringing the asset to the location and condition necessary for it to be capable of operating in the manner intended by management.

Page 22

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)


2.15
Tangible fixed assets (continued)

Depreciation is charged so as to allocate the cost of assets less their residual value over their estimated useful lives, using the straight-line method.

Depreciation is provided on the following basis:

Freehold land and property
-
Not depreciated
Long-term leasehold property
-
Over 50 years straight line
Improvements to leasehold property
-
5-50 years straight line
Plant, vehicles and equipment
-
1-5 years straight line
Revenue earning vehicles
-
5-7 years straight line

The assets' residual values, useful lives and depreciation methods are reviewed, and adjusted prospectively if appropriate, or if there is an indication of a significant change since the last reporting date.

Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing the proceeds with the carrying amount and are recognised in the Statement of Comprehensive Income.

 
2.16

Valuation of investments

Investments in subsidiaries are measured at cost less accumulated impairment.

  
2.17

Stocks

Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell. In general, cost is determined on a first in first out basis.
Work in progress is valued on the basis of direct cost plus attributable overheads at normal levels of activity. No element of profit is included in the valuation of work in progress. Finished goods include the cost of materials, labour and attributable overheads at normal levels of activity. Where necessary, provision is made for obsolete and slow moving stocks.
Amounts receivable under manufacture incentive agreements are recognised when the Company has achieved the criteria set out therein and agreement has been reached with the manufacturer for reimbursement. When amounts received relate directly to stock purchases made, which are still held by the Company, they are netted against the value of the remaining stock rather than being recognised as income within the financial statements.

 
2.18

Debtors

Short-term debtors are measured at transaction price, less any impairment. Loans receivable are measured initially at transaction price, net of transaction costs, and are measured subsequently at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less any impairment.

Page 23

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.19

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash is represented by cash in hand and deposits with financial institutions repayable without penalty on notice. Cash equivalents are highly liquid investments that mature in no more than three months from the date of acquisition and that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash with insignificant risk of change in value.

 
2.20

Creditors

Short-term creditors are measured at the transaction price. Other financial liabilities, including bank loans, are measured initially at transaction cost, net of transaction costs, and are measured subsequently at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

  
2.21

Provisions for liabilities

Provisions are recognised when the Company has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of past events; it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation; and the amount of the obligation can be estimated reliably.
Where there are a number of similar obligations, the likelihood that an outflow will be required in settlement is determined by considering the class of obligations as a whole. A provision is recognised even if the likelihood of an outflow with respect to any one item included in the same class of obligations might be small.
Provisions are measured at the present value of the expenditures expected to be required to settle the obligation using a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the obligation. The increase in the provision due to passage of time is recognised as a finance cost.

Page 24

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.22

Financial instruments


The Company only enters into basic financial instrument transactions that result in the recognition of financial assets and liabilities like trade and other debtors and creditors, loans from banks and other third parties, loans to related parties and investments in ordinary shares.
Debt instruments (other than those wholly repayable or receivable within one year), including loans and other accounts receivable and payable, are initially measured at transaction price, net of transaction costs, and subsequently at amortised cost using the effective interest method. Debt instruments that are payable or receivable within one year, typically trade debtors and creditors, are measured, initially and subsequently, at the undiscounted amount of the cash or other consideration expected to be paid or received. However, if the arrangements of a short-term instrument constitute a financing transaction, like the payment of a trade debt deferred beyond normal business terms or in case of an out-right short-term loan that is not at market rate, the financial asset or liability is measured, initially at the present value of future cash flows discounted at a market rate of interest for a similar debt instrument and subsequently at amortised cost, unless it qualifies as a loan from a director in the case of a small company, or a public benefit entity concessionary loan.
Financial assets that are measured at cost and amortised cost are assessed at the end of each reporting period for objective evidence of impairment. If objective evidence of impairment is found, an impairment loss is recognised in the Statement of Comprehensive Income.
For financial assets measured at amortised cost, the impairment loss is measured as the difference between an asset's carrying amount and the present value of estimated cash flows discounted at the asset's original effective interest rate. If a financial asset has a variable interest rate, the discount rate for measuring any impairment loss is the current effective interest rate determined under the contract.
For financial assets measured at cost less impairment, the impairment loss is measured as the difference between an asset's carrying amount and best estimate of the recoverable amount, which is an approximation of the amount that the Company would receive for the asset if it were to be sold at the balance sheet date.
Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount reported in the Balance Sheet when there is an 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.

Page 25

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

3.


Judgements in applying accounting policies and key sources of estimation uncertainty

Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.
The Company makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates will, by definition, seldom equal the related actual results. The estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are addressed below.
(i) Useful economic lives of intangible assets 
The annual amortisation charge for intangible assets is sensitive to changes in the estimated useful economic lives and residual values of the assets. The useful economic lives and residual values are reassessed annually. They are amended when necessary to reflect current estimates, based on technological advancement, market value, economic utilisation and the physical condition of the assets. See note 12 for the carrying amount of the intangible assets, and note 2.14 for the useful economic lives for each class of assets.
(ii) Useful economic lives of tangible assets 
The annual depreciation charge for tangible assets is sensitive to changes in the estimated useful economic lives and residual values of the assets. The useful economic lives and residual values are reassessed annually. They are amended when necessary to reflect current estimates, based on technological advancement, market value, economic utilisation and the physical condition of the assets. See note 13 for the carrying amount of the property, plant and equipment, and note 2.15 for the useful economic lives for each class of assets.
(iii) Stock provisioning 
The Company holds stocks of vehicles and parts, which are subject to changing customer demands. As a result it is necessary to consider the recoverability of the cost of stock and the associated provisioning required. When calculating the stock provision, management considers the nature and condition of the stock, as well as applying assumptions around anticipated saleability of finished goods and future usage of raw materials. See note 15 for the net carrying amount of the stock and associated provision. 
(iv) Defined benefit pension schemes 
The Company has obligations to pay pension benefits to certain employees. The cost of these benefits and the present value of the obligation depend on a number of factors, including: life expectancy, salary increases, asset valuations and the discount rate on corporate bonds. Management estimates these factors in determining the net pension obligation/asset in the Balance Sheet. The assumptions reflect historical experience and current trends. See note 26 for the disclosures relating to the defined benefit pension schemes.
(v) Impairment of trade debtors
The Company is required to offer credit terms to the majority of its customers for the sale of commercial vehicles, spare parts and services. Some debts will not be paid through the default of a small number of customers. Whilst there is a degree of customer concentration, this risk is partially mitigated by a diverse customer base and regular dialogue with key customers. 

Page 26

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

4.


Turnover

An analysis of turnover by class of business is as follows:


2024
2023
£
£

Sales of commercial vehicles
244,744,349
214,097,701

Sales of spare parts
67,211,761
63,444,117

Provision of services
52,628,764
45,696,432

364,584,874
323,238,250


All turnover arose within the United Kingdom.


5.


Operating profit

The operating profit is stated after charging/(crediting)

2024
2023
£
£

Depreciation of tangible fixed assets
12,713,736
15,178,308

Amortisation of intangible assets
454,233
454,100

Profit on disposal of fixed asset
(810,535)
(711,899)

Other operating lease rentals
2,530,533
1,889,154


6.


Auditor's remuneration

During the year, the Company obtained the following services from the Company's auditor and its associates:


2024
2023
£
£

Fees payable to the Company's auditor and its associates for the audit of the Company's financial statements
70,000
64,000

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

Page 27

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

7.


Employees

Staff costs, including directors' remuneration, were as follows:


2024
2023
£
£

Wages and salaries
30,530,551
28,682,934

Social security costs
3,364,001
3,011,201

Cost of defined benefit scheme
(162,000)
(44,000)

Cost of defined contribution scheme
2,941,890
2,424,005

36,674,442
34,074,140


The average monthly number of employees, including the directors, during the year was as follows:


        2024
        2023
            No.
            No.







Sales
80
32



Administrative
73
144



Service and parts
708
619

861
795


8.


Directors' remuneration

2024
2023
£
£

Directors' emoluments
1,267,785
1,165,506

Company contributions to pension schemes
74,271
69,643

1,342,056
1,235,149


During the year retirement benefits were accruing to 2 directors (2023 - 2) in respect of defined contribution pension schemes and retirement benefits were accruing to 2 directors (2023 - 2) in respect of defined benefit pension schemes.

The highest paid director received remuneration of £257,078 (2023 - £225,519).

The value of the Company's contributions paid to a defined contribution pension scheme in respect of the highest paid director amounted to £Nil (2023 - £Nil).

The value of the Company's contributions paid to a defined benefit pension scheme in respect of the highest paid director amounted to £Nil (2023 - £Nil).

The directors are considered to be the key management personnel of the Company.

Page 28

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

9.


Interest receivable

2024
2023
£
£


Other interest receivable
486,944
355,030

486,944
355,030


10.


Interest payable and similar expenses

2024
2023
£
£


Bank interest payable
29,538
7,647

Finance leases and hire purchase contracts
2,593,059
2,727,555

2,622,597
2,735,202


11.


Taxation


2024
2023
£
£

Corporation tax


Current tax on profits for the year
113,142
619,569


Total current tax
113,142
619,569

Deferred tax


Origination and reversal of timing differences
773,537
(90,103)

Adjustments in respect of prior periods
-
(537,897)

Changes to tax rates
-
(21,750)

Total deferred tax
773,537
(649,750)


Tax on profit
886,679
(30,181)
Page 29

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
 
11.Taxation (continued)


Factors affecting tax charge for the year

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

2024
2023
£
£


Profit on ordinary activities before tax
2,637,075
1,207,110


Profit on ordinary activities multiplied by standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 25% (2023 - 25%)
659,269
301,778

Effects of:


Expenses not deductible for tax purposes, other than goodwill amortisation and impairment
115,245
162,041

Capital allowances for year in excess of depreciation
305,167
65,647

Qualifying profit on disposal
(202,675)
-

Changes in provisions leading to an increase  in the tax charge
9,673
-

Adjustment in respect of prior periods
-
(537,897)

Change in tax rates
-
(21,750)

Total tax charge for the year
886,679
(30,181)


Factors that may affect future tax charges

There were no factors that may affect future tax charges.

Page 30

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

12.


Intangible assets




Goodwill

£



Cost


At 1 January 2024
3,925,000



At 31 December 2024

3,925,000



Amortisation


At 1 January 2024
683,267


Charge for the year
454,233



At 31 December 2024

1,137,500



Net book value



At 31 December 2024
2,787,500



At 31 December 2023
3,241,733



Page 31

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

13.


Tangible fixed assets





Freehold land and property
Long-term leasehold property
Plant, vehicles and equipment
Revenue earning vehicles
Total

£
£
£
£
£



Cost or valuation


At 1 January 2024
626,814
9,632,559
20,278,228
59,704,755
90,242,356


Additions
-
485,301
9,335,793
2,369,082
12,190,176


Disposals
-
(6,210)
(2,817,011)
(15,613,668)
(18,436,889)



At 31 December 2024

626,814
10,111,650
26,797,010
46,460,169
83,995,643



Depreciation


At 1 January 2024
-
3,322,360
12,348,341
15,580,087
31,250,788


Charge for the year
-
686,668
3,378,824
8,648,244
12,713,736


Disposals
-
(6,210)
(1,974,125)
(6,175,899)
(8,156,234)



At 31 December 2024

-
4,002,818
13,753,040
18,052,432
35,808,290



Net book value



At 31 December 2024
626,814
6,108,832
13,043,970
28,407,737
48,187,353



At 31 December 2023
626,814
6,310,199
7,929,887
44,124,668
58,991,568

Included within net book value is £27,788,155 (2023 - £44,796,147) relating to assets held under hire purchase agreements. The depreciation charged in the financial statements in the year in respect of such assets amounted to £8,524,945 (2023 - £11,714,203).
Included within freehold land and property is £626,814 of freehold land (2023 - £626,814). The freehold land is not depreciated.

Page 32

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

14.


Fixed asset investments





Investments in subsidiary companies

£



Subsidiary undertaking


At 1 January 2024
2



At 31 December 2024
2





Subsidiary undertaking


The following was a subsidiary undertaking of the Company:

Name

Registered office

Class of shares

Holding

Ford & Slater (Leyland DAF) Trust Limited
Hazel Drive, Narborough Road, Leicester, LE3 2JG.
Ordinary
100%




15.


Stocks

2024
2023
£
£

New vehicles
86,144,360
103,899,239

Used vehicles
920,361
414,381

Work in progress
2,138,937
2,071,355

Spare parts and consumables
12,641,431
13,809,910

101,845,089
120,194,885


New vehicles include vehicles awaiting modification for customer specific requirements and/or compliance checks prior to delivery to the customer. 
The replacement cost of stock is not materially different to the cost stated above. 
Company stocks are stated after provisions for impairment of £1,162,260 (2023 - £1,103,291).

Page 33

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

16.


Debtors

2024
2023
£
£


Trade debtors
22,919,341
29,327,614

Prepayments and accrued income
2,973,236
4,037,506

25,892,577
33,365,120


Company debtors are stated after provisions for impairment of £657,691 (2023 - £704,015). Any amounts owed by group undertaking are unsecured, interest free and payable on demand.


17.


Cash and cash equivalents

2024
2023
£
£

Cash at bank and in hand
6,845,377
1,951,828

6,845,377
1,951,828


Page 34

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

18.


Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year

2024
2023
£
£

Bank loans
1,000,000
1,000,000

Trade creditors
68,465,496
101,436,206

Amounts owed to group undertakings
536,956
1,303,939

Corporation tax
346,175
932,201

Other taxation and social security
6,704,724
3,751,093

Obligations under finance lease and hire purchase contracts
9,934,654
12,560,740

Accruals and deferred income
54,991,746
41,962,018

141,979,751
162,946,197


The Company has joined with other group undertakings in providing Barclays Bank Plc with fixed and floating security in relation to term loan and revolver bank facilities provided to Ford & Slater Limited and other group members.
 
The Company has provided the Homes and Communities Agency with fixed security over specific land and buildings in relation to potential further overage which may become payable during the overage period which runs to 2036.

The Group term loan of £1,550,000 (2023 - £3,750,000) accrues interest on a floating basis equal to the Bank of England Base Rate plus a margin of 3.25%. The Group term loan is repayable within five years.
Amounts due under hire purchase agreements are secured against the assets to which they relate. Any amounts owed to group undertakings are unsecured, interest free and payable on demand.

Page 35

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

19.


Creditors: Amounts falling due after more than one year

2024
2023
£
£

Bank loans
550,000
2,750,000

Obligations under finance leases and hire purchase contracts
21,688,425
32,350,150

22,238,425
35,100,150


The Company has joined with other group undertakings in providing Barclays Bank Plc with fixed and floating security in relation to term loan and revolver bank facilities provided to Ford & Slater Limited and other group members.

The Company has provided the Homes and Communities Agency with fixed security over specific land and buildings in relation to potential further overage which may become payable during the overage period which runs to 2036.
The Group term loan of £1,550,000 (2023 - £3,750,000) accrues interest on a floating basis equal to the Bank of England Base Rate plus a margin of 3.25%. The Group term loan is repayable within five years.
Amounts due under hire purchase agreements are secured against the assets to which they relate. Any amounts owed to group undertakings are unsecured, interest free and payable on demand.


20.


Loans


Analysis of the maturity of loans is given below:


2024
2023
£
£

Amounts falling due within one year

Bank loans
1,000,000
1,000,000

Amounts falling due 1-2 years

Bank loans
550,000
1,000,000

Amounts falling due 2-5 years

Bank loans
-
1,750,000


1,550,000
3,750,000


Page 36

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

21.


Hire purchase and finance leases


Minimum lease payments under hire purchase fall due as follows:

2024
2023
£
£


Within one year
9,934,654
12,560,740

Between 1-5 years
20,600,440
30,466,090

Over 5 years
1,087,985
1,884,060

31,623,079
44,910,890


22.


Deferred taxation




2024


£






At beginning of year
2,969,723


Charged to the Statement of Comprehensive Income
1,162,787



At end of year
4,132,510

The provision for deferred taxation is made up as follows:

2024
2023
£
£


Accelerated capital allowances
1,750,720
1,079,723

Deferred tax liability on pension asset
2,381,790
1,890,000

4,132,510
2,969,723

Page 37

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

23.


Provisions




Other provisions

£





At 1 January 2024
360,000


Credited to the Statement of Comprehensive Income
(360,000)



At 31 December 2024
-


24.


Share capital

2024
2023
£
£
Allotted, called up and fully paid



100,000 (2023 - 100,000) Ordinary shares of £1.00 each
100,000
100,000

There is a single class of ordinary shares. There are no restrictions on the distribution of dividends and repayment of capital from distributable reserves.



25.


Capital commitments

Capital expenditure amounts contracted for but not provided for in the financial statements amounted to £4,107,671 (2023 - £1,857,439). The Company has joined with other group undertakings in giving a multilateral, unlimited guarantee to secure bank facilities provided to Strevens Vehicles Holdings Limited and its subsidiary undertakings. At 31 December 2024 the Group's net bank borrowings amounted to £Nil (2023 - £357,085).



Page 38

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

26.


Pension commitments


(i) Pensions 
The Company operates two defined benefit pension schemes, namely the Ford & Slater Pension Scheme and the Ford & Slater No. 2 Pension Scheme (together "the schemes"), both of which are closed to new entrants. The contributions to the schemes are determined with the advice of independent qualified actuaries on the basis of triennial valuations using the projected unit method. 
The Company offers membership of a defined contribution pension scheme to employees who are not members of the defined benefit pension schemes. Contributions of £1,792,000 (2023 - £1,673,000) were paid into the defined contribution pension schemes during the year. 
(ii) Financial Reporting Standard 102 (FRS 102), Paragraph 28 'Defined benefit plans' 
For the purpose of FRS 102 the Company has presented the amounts recognised in the Statement of Comprehensive Income and Balance Sheet for the Ford & Slater Pension Scheme and the Ford & Slater No. 2 Pension Scheme on a combined basis, in line with paragraph 28.41 of FRS 102. There is no legal right of set off between the two defined benefit pension schemes, but the directors consider the combined presentation basis to be the most appropriate for the purposes of FRS 102. 
The Company made regular contributions of 26.2% of pensionable salary above the lower earnings limit into the Ford & Slater Pension Scheme until 30 June 2023. With effect from 1 July 2023, the Group made regular contributions of 25.8% of pensionable salary above the lower earnings limit into the Ford & Slater Pension Scheme in line with the new schedule of contributions agreed as part of the 6 April 2022 actuarial valuation; the Company will also pay £200,000 per annum towards scheme administration costs. 
With effect from 1 August 2024 the Company has made regular contributions of 17.6% of total pensionable salaries into the Ford & Slater No. 2 Pension Scheme, in line with the new schedule of contributions that was put in place following the finalisation of the 1 May 2023 actuarial valuation. Regular employer contributions in 2025 are estimated to be £600,000 for the two schemes. 
Deficit reduction contributions equal to £4,167 per month, or £50,000 per annum, were agreed under the recovery plan of the Ford & Slater No. 2 Pension Scheme which came into effect from 1 June 2021 onwards. Following the finalisation of the 1 May 2023 actuarial valuation in July 2024, no recovery plan or deficit reduction contributions are needed in relation to the scheme.
Certain key financial information as at 31 December 2024, by individual defined benefit pension scheme, is as follows: 
 
The Ford & Slater Pension Scheme fair value of scheme assets and FRS102 net pension scheme asset (within the Company Balance Sheet) were £22,800,000 (2023 - £24,200,000) and £4,200,000 (2023 - £3,000,000) respectively; and
The Ford & Slater No. 2 Pension Scheme fair value of scheme assets and FRS102 net pension scheme asset (within the Company Balance Sheet) were £10,000,000 (2023 - £9,800,000) and £5,600,000 (2023 - £4,700,000) respectively.

 
Page 39

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
 
26.Pension commitments (continued)




Reconciliation of present value of plan liabilities:


2024
2023
£
£

Reconciliation of present value of plan liabilities


At the beginning of the year
26,287,000
25,413,000

Current service cost
194,000
240,000

Interest expense
1,159,000
1,174,000

Actuarial losses/(gains)
(3,457,000)
358,000

Member contributions
111,000
138,000

Benefits paid
(1,194,000)
(1,036,000)

Past service cost
1,000
-

At the end of the year
23,101,000
26,287,000



Reconciliation of present value of plan assets:


2024
2023
£
£


At the beginning of the year
33,981,000
32,575,000

Interest income
1,520,000
1,528,000

Actuarial gains/(losses)
(1,900,000)
492,000

Employer contributions
676,000
753,000

Benefits paid
(1,194,000)
(1,036,000)

Members contribution
111,000
138,000

Administrative costs
(320,000)
(470,000)

At the end of the year
32,874,000
33,980,000

Page 40

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
 
26.Pension commitments (continued)


Composition of plan assets:


2024
2023
£
£


Equities
15,656,000
10,248,000

Bonds
13,826,000
18,861,000

Property
1,408,000
4,053,000

Other assets
1,984,000
818,000

Total plan assets
32,874,000
33,980,000

2024
2023
£
£


Fair value of plan assets
32,874,000
33,980,000

Present value of plan liabilities
(23,101,000)
(26,287,000)

Net pension scheme asset
9,773,000
7,693,000


The amounts recognised in the Statement of Comprehensive Income are as follows:

2024
2023
£
£


Current service cost
194,000
240,000

Administration costs
320,000
470,000

Net interest income
(361,000)
(354,000)

Total
153,000
356,000


Actual (loss)/return on scheme assets
(380,000)
202,000




Page 41

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
 
26.Pension commitments (continued)


Principal actuarial assumptions at the balance sheet date (expressed as weighted averages):

2024
2023
%
%
Discount rate


5.50

4.50
 
Future salary increases


2.80

2.70
 
Future pension increases


3.15

3.05
 
RPI inflation


3.40

3.30
 
CPI inflation


2.80

2.70
 
Mortality rates



 
- for a male aged 65 now


21.3

21.3
 
- at 65 for a male aged 45 now


22.2

22.2
 
- for a female aged 65 now


23.8

23.8
 
- at 65 for a female member aged 45 now


25.6

25.6
 





Page 42

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

27.


Commitments under operating leases

At 31 December 2024 the Company had future minimum lease payments due under non-cancellable operating leases for each of the following periods:

2024
2023
£
£

Land & buildings


Not later than 1 year
1,722,062
1,705,459

Later than 1 year and not later than 5 years
4,429,216
5,170,856

Later than 5 years
6,975,973
7,316,991

13,127,251
14,193,306

2024
2023

£
£

Revenue under operating leases


Not later than 1 year
9,053,758
12,320,318

Later than 1 year and not later than 5 years
18,910,838
27,963,110

Later than 5 years
544,355
4,779,191

28,508,951
45,062,619

The Company has entered into operating lease rental agreements with a number of customers in respect of revenue earning vehicles. The rental agreement term is generally between one and five years, there is a distance variation mechanism within the rental agreement that amends the rental payment amount according to the annual distance travelled and the provision of vehicle maintenance through the DAF dealer network may also be offered.


28.


Related party transactions

The Company has taken advantage of the exemption conferred by Section 33 of Financial Reporting Standard 102 not to disclose transactions with other group entities who are wholly owned within the Group.
Members of two of the director's close family have been temporary employees of the Company in the year and as such have been remunerated for these services. This is not material to the directors concerned.
Property rental charges of £338,000 were paid to the Strevens Family SSAS by the Company during the year ended 31 December 2024 in respect of dealership premises at Norwich, Peterborough and Spalding (2023 - £233,000).

Page 43

 
FORD & SLATER LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

29.


Post balance sheet events

On 12 September 2025, Ford & Slater signed for the purchase of the Sheffield freehold dealership located at Orgreave Drive, Sheffield for a consideration of £1,100,000. The completion date has been agreed as 29 September 2025.  As the purchase was agreed and completed after the balance sheet date, no adjustment has been made to the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2024.
There have been no further significant events affecting the Group since the year end.


30.


Ultimate controlling party

The Company's immediate and ultimate parent undertaking is Strevens Vehicles Holdings Limited, a company registered in England and Wales. Mr T M Strevens and Mr N J Strevens are the ultimate controlling parties of Strevens Vehicles Holdings Limited. The smallest and largest company to consolidate the results of the Company is the ultimate parent entity. These financial statements are available to the public and may be obtained from Ford & Slater Limited, Hazel Drive, Leicester, England, LE3 2JG.

 
Page 44