Company registration number 06242481 (England and Wales)
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
COMPANY INFORMATION
Directors
H Bjornsson
D Helgason
K Hilton
M Maslowicz
B Ragnarsson
A Sveinsson
Company number
06242481
Registered office
Floor 2, City Buildings
24-48 Carrington Street
Nottingham
NG1 7FG
Auditor
UHY Hacker Young
14 Park Row
Nottingham
NG1 6GR
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
CONTENTS
Page
Strategic report
1 - 4
Directors' report
5 - 6
Independent auditor's report
7 - 10
Group statement of comprehensive income
11
Group balance sheet
12
Company balance sheet
13 - 14
Group statement of changes in equity
15
Company statement of changes in equity
16
Group statement of cash flows
17
Notes to the financial statements
18 - 39
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
STRATEGIC REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 1 -

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

Review of the business

Lockwood Publishing Limited remain solely focused on the development of Avakin Life. We aim to grow our user base whilst giving users the optimum and safest environment in which to enjoy and express themselves.

 

Financial performance declined compared to the same 12-month period last year. When comparing the current period results to the comparative 12-month period to December 2023, revenue decreased to £18.321m from £19.128m, Gross profit decreased to £5.693m from £6.857m and EBITDA decreased to (£4.193m) from (£3.739m). The comparative financial performance of the business for 2023, as set out on page 11, is for a 9 month period to December 2023.

 

The decrease in revenue was driven by £1.106m less brand partnership deals in 2024 compared to 2023, and £286k less advertising revenue, offsetting an increase of £584k of increased revenues across in-app purchases and subscriptions through improved in-game monetisation. The increase in in-app revenues led to an increase of £187k of platform fees, resulting in an overall £995k decrease to NET revenues (revenue less platform fee), £13.368m; £14.363m 2023.

 

The continuation of improved user acquisition strategy and focus on cost per install and return on ad spend, resulted in a decrease of £240k of spend, from £1.175m to £1.142m 2023. As a result of cost reductions and efficiencies, operating costs reduced by £390k, to £16.316m; £16.706m 2023. The combination of savings on user acquisition and operating costs, limited the impact of £995k less NET revenue, with a £455k decrease in EBITDA, to (£4.193m); (£3.739m).

 

The loss before tax was (£4.771m), compared to the prior year 9-month accounting period loss before tax of (£2.412m). Loss before tax for the 12-month period to December 2023 was (£4.739m).

 

Cash at the end of December 2024 was £5.096m, compared to £6.980m at December 2023.

Future Developments

The group continues to focus on improvements to in game content and development of new features, with a view to both improving the experience of our players and strengthening the financial position of the group. Q3-2025 saw the launch of Avakin Life on Steam, bringing the mobile experience to PC, with early access launching in August, and full release expected in Q4-2025.

 

As noted in the going concern section of this report: improving revenue and EBITDA performance post year end, a decreased cost base of the group and decreased cash requirements mean management are comfortable in the group’s cash position. There is a continued focus through 2025 on improving efficiency and managing cash requirements, while still being positioned for growth and development.

LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 2 -
Principal risks and uncertainties

Competitive Environment

Mobile gaming and social applications continue to evolve, with the competition for user’s screen time more demanding than ever. 2024 saw increasing challenges around user acquisition and marketing, with an increasingly competitive mobile gaming environment leading to it becoming harder and more costly to acquire, maintain and grow user numbers. However, we are confident that our product and our longer-term vision will continue to be attractive to consumers, combined with an overhauled user acquisition, monetisation, and content strategy.

 

User Safety

The group considers the safety of its user’s paramount. As such there is a risk that user’s safety is compromised. To mitigate this risk, we operate best-in-class processes and procedures to ensure user safety is not compromised. We have continued to increase our resourcing on player support and moderation, both in-house and through third party software and services. Age verification launched in October 2023, allowing 18+ year old players the option to verify their age with either facial analysis or legal ID checking, to access additional in-game features and benefits; helping to both further improve player safety as well as player experience across age ranges.

 

Data and Security Risk

There is a risk that data security is breached. To mitigate this risk, extensive controls are in place to maintain the integrity of our systems, and to ensure that system changes are implemented in a controlled manner. Also, IT recovery processes are tested regularly.

 

Employee Retention

There is a risk that key employees are not retained. To mitigate this risk, we work to ensure working practices, morale and incentives are of the highest possible quality. We are comfortable that key functions are appropriately spread between numerous employees, and the key individuals suitably incentivised and secured.

 

Financial Risk Management and Objectives

The group makes little use of financial instruments other than an operational bank account and therefore its exposure to price risk, credit risk, liquidity risk and cash flow risk is not material for the assessment of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit or loss of the group.

LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 3 -

Going Concern

The accounts have been prepared on a going concern basis, having carried out a detailed review of the company and group position and its forecasts to 31 December 2026 at the date of signing the accounts. Having considered the current economic and wider industry challenges, and the potential impact on the group, the directors are satisfied that the company and group has sufficient cash flows to meet its liabilities as they fall due.

 

The directors acknowledge the pre-tax loss of (£4.771m) and year end cash position of £5.096m, although highlight the improving trend through Q4-2024, and post year end; with improvements to EBITDA through the 7-months to July 2025 compared to the 7-months to July 2024.

7-months to July 2025: (£210k)

7-months to July 2024: (£2.306m)

 

As well as the improving EBITDA performance year on year through 2025, the directors highlight the decreased cost base of the group and decreased cash requirements, with monthly average operating cash burn through the 7-months to July 2025 being £333k lower than the 7-months to July 2024. Cash at 31 July 2025 was £6.648m, compared to £5.095m at 31 December 2024. In addition, attention is drawn to the £2.084m VGTR claim to be submitted in October 2025 for the year ended 31 December 2024.

 

The company continues to ensure costs are managed, with a view to balancing organisational efficiency and cashflows, with being positioned for growth. The directors continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

Key performance indicators

The directors consider the key performance indicators used to monitor the performance of the company to be Revenue, EBITDA (Earnings before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation), Net Cash Reserves, MAU (Monthly Active Users), ARPU (Average Revenue Per User) and ARPPU (Average Revenue Per Paying User). We are satisfied with the performance and trends of these indicators. The comparative financial performance as set out on page 11 is for a 9-month period to December 2023. The below figures are to show 12 months comparability only.

 

 

12 months to December 2024

12 months to December 2023

 

 

 

Turnover

£18.321m

£19.128m

EBITDA loss

£4.193m

£3.739m

Net cash reserves

£5.096m

£6.980m

MAU

1.816m

2.614m

ARPU

£0.85

£0.64

ARPPU

£28.90

£25.83

 

 

LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 4 -

On behalf of the board

K Hilton
Director
26 September 2025
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
DIRECTORS' REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 5 -

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

Principal activities

The principal activity of the company and group continued to be that of managing and developing mobile gaming applications.

Results and dividends

The results for the year are set out on page 11.

The comparative period is not directly comparable as it covers 9 months, whereas the current year reflects a full 12-month period.

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

Directors

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

H Bjornsson
D Helgason
K Hilton
M Maslowicz
B Ragnarsson
A Sveinsson
Qualifying third party indemnity provisions

The company has made qualifying third party indemnity provisions for the benefit of its directors during the year. These provisions remain in force at the reporting date.

Auditor

UHY were appointed as auditor to the group and in accordance with section 485 of the Companies Act 2006, a resolution proposing that they be re-appointed will be put at a General Meeting.

LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 6 -
Statement of directors' responsibilities

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

 

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

 

 

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

Strategic report

Ttruehe group has chosen in accordance with Companies Act 2006, s. 414C(11) to set out in the group's strategic report information required by Large and Medium-sized Companies and Groups (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008, Sch. 7 to be contained in the directors' report. It has done so in respect of future developments, its financial risk management policies and exposure to price, credit, liquidity and cash flow risks.

Statement of disclosure to auditor

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

On behalf of the board
K Hilton
Director
26 September 2025
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
TO THE MEMBERS OF LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
- 7 -
Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Lockwood Publishing Limited (the 'parent company') and its subsidiaries (the 'group') for the year ended 31 December 2024 which comprise the group statement of comprehensive income, the group balance sheet, the company balance sheet, the group statement of changes in equity, the company statement of changes in equity, the group statement of cash flows and notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion the financial statements:

Basis for opinion

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

Conclusions relating to going concern

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

 

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

 

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

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MEMBERS OF LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
- 8 -

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. The directors are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

 

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

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

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

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

 

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

Responsibilities of directors

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

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MEMBERS OF LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
- 9 -
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.

Audit procedures performed include:

- Enquiry of management regarding any instances of actual or potential fraud during the year;

- Assessment of fraud prevention and detection procedures within the company;

- Reviewing minutes of meetings of those charged with governance;

- Auditing the risk of management override of controls, including through testing journal entries and other

adjustments for appropriateness, and evaluating the business rationale of significant transactions outside the

normal course of business;

- Enquiry of management regarding actual and potential litigation and claims, or any potential breaches of laws and regulations;

- Reviewed the reconciliations of intercompany balances and financial statement disclosures;

- Reviews and audit of different revenue streams by comparing the amounts posted to the source documentation by third parties;

- Review and audit of VGTR claims by considering the appropriateness of amounts classified as qualifying for the claim;

- Reviewing financial statement disclosures prepared by management and testing to supporting documentation to assess cornpliance with applicable laws and regulations.

 

There are inherent limitations in the audit procedures described above and the further removed noncompliance 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.

 

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the parent 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 parent 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 parent company and the parent company’s members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MEMBERS OF LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
- 10 -
James Simmonds (Senior Statutory Auditor)
For and on behalf of UHY Hacker Young
26 September 2025
Chartered Accountants
Statutory Auditor
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
GROUP STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 11 -
2024
2023
Notes
£'000
£'000
Turnover
3
18,320
15,021
Cost of sales
(12,586)
(9,346)
Gross profit
5,734
5,675
Administrative expenses
(10,869)
(8,373)
Other operating income
191
167
Operating loss
4
(4,944)
(2,531)
Interest receivable and similar income
8
221
168
Interest payable and similar expenses
9
(48)
(49)
Loss before taxation
(4,771)
(2,412)
Tax on loss
10
2,084
1,719
Loss for the financial year
23
(2,687)
(693)
Other comprehensive income
Currency translation loss taken to retained earnings
(35)
(33)
Total comprehensive income for the year
(2,722)
(726)
Loss for the financial year is all attributable to the owners of the parent company.
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
GROUP BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024
31 December 2024
- 12 -
2024
2023
Notes
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
Fixed assets
Intangible assets
11
33
42
Tangible assets
12
92
229
125
271
Current assets
Debtors
15
7,013
7,643
Cash at bank and in hand
5,096
6,980
12,109
14,623
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
16
(1,905)
(2,316)
Net current assets
10,204
12,307
Total assets less current liabilities
10,329
12,578
Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year
17
-
(5)
Provisions for liabilities
Deferred tax liability
19
37
37
(37)
(37)
Net assets
10,292
12,536
Capital and reserves
Called up share capital
22
2
2
Share premium account
23
19,994
19,994
Other reserves
23
1,424
945
Profit and loss reserves
23
(11,128)
(8,405)
Total equity
10,292
12,536
The financial statements were approved by the board of directors and authorised for issue on 26 September 2025 and are signed on its behalf by:
26 September 2025
K Hilton
Director
Company registration number 06242481 (England and Wales)
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
COMPANY BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024
31 December 2024
- 13 -
2024
2023
Notes
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
Fixed assets
Intangible assets
11
33
42
Tangible assets
12
85
211
Investments
13
41
41
159
294
Current assets
Debtors
15
6,828
7,479
Cash at bank and in hand
4,891
6,668
11,719
14,147
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
16
(1,904)
(2,145)
Net current assets
9,815
12,002
Total assets less current liabilities
9,974
12,296
Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year
17
-
(5)
Provisions for liabilities
Deferred tax liability
19
37
37
(37)
(37)
Net assets
9,937
12,254
Capital and reserves
Called up share capital
22
2
2
Share premium account
23
19,994
19,994
Other reserves
23
1,424
945
Profit and loss reserves
23
(11,483)
(8,687)
Total equity
9,937
12,254
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
COMPANY BALANCE SHEET (CONTINUED)
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024
31 December 2024
- 14 -

As permitted by s408 Companies Act 2006, the company has not presented its own profit and loss account and relates notes as it prepares group accounts. The company's loss for the period was £2,796k (2023 - £770k).

 

The comparative period is not directly comparable as it covers 9 months, whereas the current year reflects a full 12-month period.

The financial statements were approved by the board of directors and authorised for issue on 26 September 2025 and are signed on its behalf by:
26 September 2025
K Hilton
Director
Company registration number 06242481 (England and Wales)
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
GROUP STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 15 -
Share capital
Share premium account
Share option reserve
Profit and loss reserves
Total
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
Balance at 1 April 2023
2
19,994
865
(7,679)
13,182
Year ended 31 December 2023:
Loss for the year
-
-
-
(693)
(693)
Other comprehensive income:
Currency translation differences
-
-
-
(33)
(33)
Total comprehensive income
-
-
-
(726)
(726)
Credit to equity for equity settled share-based payments
-
-
80
-
80
Balance at 31 December 2023
2
19,994
945
(8,405)
12,536
Year ended 31 December 2024:
Loss for the year
-
-
-
(2,687)
(2,687)
Other comprehensive income:
Currency translation differences
-
-
-
(35)
(35)
Total comprehensive income
-
-
-
(2,722)
(2,722)
Credit to equity for equity settled share-based payments
-
-
479
-
479
Balance at 31 December 2024
2
19,994
1,424
(11,128)
10,292
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
COMPANY STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 16 -
Share capital
Share premium account
Share option reserve
Profit and loss reserves
Total
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
Balance at 1 April 2023
2
19,994
865
(7,917)
12,944
Year ended 31 December 2023:
Loss and total comprehensive income for the year
-
-
-
(770)
(770)
Credit to equity for equity settled share-based payments
-
-
80
-
80
Balance at 31 December 2023
2
19,994
945
(8,687)
12,254
Year ended 31 December 2024:
Profit and total comprehensive income
-
-
-
(2,796)
(2,796)
Credit to equity for equity settled share-based payments
-
-
479
-
479
Balance at 31 December 2024
2
19,994
1,424
(11,483)
9,937
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
GROUP STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 17 -
2024
2023
Notes
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash absorbed by operations
27
(4,572)
(2,153)
Interest paid
(48)
(49)
Income taxes refunded
2,566
3,730
Net cash (outflow)/inflow from operating activities
(2,054)
1,528
Investing activities
Purchase of intangible assets
-
(43)
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
(35)
(12)
Proceeds from disposal of tangible fixed assets
2
1
Interest received
221
168
Net cash generated from investing activities
188
114
Financing activities
Payment of finance leases obligations
(18)
(13)
Net cash used in financing activities
(18)
(13)
Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents
(1,884)
1,629
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
6,980
5,352
Effect of foreign exchange rates
-
0
(1)
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
5,096
6,980
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 18 -
1
Accounting policies
Company information

Lockwood Publishing Limited (“the company”) is a private limited company domiciled and incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is . Floor 2, City Buildings, 24-48 Carrington Street, Nottingham, NG1 7FG

 

The group consists of Lockwood Publishing Limited and all of its subsidiaries.

1.1
Accounting convention

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

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

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

 

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

 

shares:

disclosures;

reconciliation of opening and closing number and weighted average exercise price of share options,

how the fair value of options granted was measured, measurement and carrying amount of liabilities

for cash-settled share-based payments, explanation of modifications to arrangements;

 

The financial statements of the company are consolidated in these consolidated financial statements of Lockwood Publishing Limited.

LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 19 -
1.2
Basis of consolidation

The consolidated group financial statements consist of the financial statements of the parent company Lockwood Publishing Limited together with all entities controlled by the parent company (its subsidiaries).

 

All financial statements are made up to 31 December 2024. Where necessary, adjustments are made to the financial statements of subsidiaries to bring the accounting policies used into line with those used by other members of the group.

 

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

1.3
Going concern

The accounts have been prepared on a going concern basis, having carried out a detailed review of the company and group position and its forecasts to 31 December 2026 at the date of signing the accounts. Having considered the current economic and wider industry challenges, and the potential impact on the group, the directors are satisfied that the company and group has sufficient cash flows to meet its liabilities as they fall due.

 

The directors acknowledge the pre-tax loss of (£4.771m) and year end cash position of £5.096m, although highlight the improving trend through Q4-2024, and post year end; with improvements to EBITDA through the 7-months to July 2025 compared to the 7-months to July 2024.

7-months to July 2025: (£210k)

7-months to July 2024: (£2.306m)

 

As well as the improving EBITDA performance year on year through 2025, the directors highlight the decreased cost base of the group and decreased cash requirements, with monthly average operating cash burn through the 7-months to July 2025 being £333k lower than the 7-months to July 2024. Cash at 31 July 2025 was £6.648m, compared to £5.095m at 31 December 2024. In addition, attention is drawn to the £2.084m VGTR claim to be submitted in October 2025 for the year ended 31 December 2024.

 

The company continues to ensure costs are managed, with a view to balancing organisational efficiency and cashflows, with being positioned for growth. The directors continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

 

 

LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 20 -
1.4
Turnover

Turnover is recognised at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable for services provided in the normal course of business, and is shown net of VAT and other sales related taxes.

 

Turnover is generated through three main sources

 

In-App purchases are purchases of In-App currencies that can then be used by our customers to purchase InApp items and content. Revenue is recognised when the customer purchases the currency, based on sale reports received from the app stores.

 

Subscription revenue relates to the customer's purchase of a monthly VIP pass that gives them access to premium, exclusive content and features. Revenue is recognised when the subscription is purchased, base on sales reports received from the app stores.

 

Advertising revenue related to the number of impressions on advertisements shown in the game by various advertising networks. Revenue is recognised when the advertising impression has occurred, based on sale reports received from the advertising networks.

 

Project revenue relates to specific contracts with customers to deliver an agreed development of an in-game experience. Revenue is recognised on stage of completion.

 

1.5
Intangible fixed assets other than goodwill

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

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

Software
33.3% straight line
1.6
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:

Leasehold improvements
20% straight line
Fixtures, fittings and equipment
20% straight line
Computer equipment
33.3% 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 recognised in the profit and loss account.

LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 21 -
1.7
Fixed asset investments

Equity investments are measured at fair value through profit or loss, except for those equity investments that are not publicly traded and whose fair value cannot otherwise be measured reliably, which are recognised at cost less impairment until a reliable measure of fair value becomes available.

 

In the parent company financial statements, investments in subsidiaries, associates and jointly controlled entities are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses.

A subsidiary is an entity controlled by the group. Control is the power to govern the financial and operating policies of the entity so as to obtain benefits from its activities.

1.8
Impairment of fixed assets

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

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

 

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

Recognised impairment losses are reversed if, and only if, the reasons for the impairment loss have ceased to apply. Where an impairment loss subsequently reverses, the carrying amount of the asset (or cash-generating unit) is increased to the revised estimate of its recoverable amount, but so that the increased carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognised for the asset (or cash-generating unit) in prior years. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognised immediately in profit or loss, unless the relevant asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case the reversal of the impairment loss is treated as a revaluation increase.

1.9
Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents are basic financial assets and include cash in hand.

LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 22 -
1.10
Financial instruments

The group has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.

 

Financial instruments are recognised in the group's balance sheet when the group becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

 

Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amounts presented in the financial statements when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Basic financial assets

Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest.

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 group 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 group after deducting all of its liabilities.

LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 23 -
Basic financial liabilities

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

 

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

Derecognition of financial liabilities

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

1.11
Equity instruments

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

1.12
Taxation

The tax expense represents the sum of the tax currently payable and deferred tax. Current tax assets are recognised when tax paid exceeds the tax payable.

Current tax

Current and deferred tax is charged or credited to profit or loss, except when it relates to items charged or credited to other comprehensive income or equity, when the tax follows the transaction or event it relates to and is also charged or credited to other comprehensive income, or equity.

 

Current tax assets and current tax liabilities and deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset. if and only if, there is a legally enforceable right to set off the amounts and the entity intends either to settle on the net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

 

Current tax is based on taxable profit for the year. Current tax assets and liabilities are measured using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting date.

Deferred tax

Deferred tax is calculated at the tax rates that are expected to apply to the period when the asset is realised or the liability is settled based on tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting date.

LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 24 -
Deferred tax liabilities are recognised in respect of all timing differences that exist at the reporting date. Timing differences are differences between taxable profits and total comprehensive income that arise from the inclusion of income and expenses in tax assessments in different periods from their recognition in the financial statements. Deferred tax assets are recognised only to the extent that it is probable that they will be recovered by the reversal of deferred tax liabilities or other future taxable profits.
Deferred tax is recognised on income and expenses from subsidiaries that will be assessed to or allow for tax in a future period except where the group is able to control the reversal of the timing difference and it is probable that the timing difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.
1.13
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.

 

Retirement benefits

For defined contribution schemes the amount charged to profit or loss is the contributions payable in the year. Differences between contributions payable in the year and contributions actually paid are shown as either accruals or prepayments.

 

1.14
Share-based payments

Equity-settled share-based payments are measured at fair value at the date of grant by reference to the fair value of the equity instruments granted using the Black-Scholes model. The fair value determined at the grant date is expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period, based on the estimate of shares that will eventually vest. A corresponding adjustment is made to equity.

When the terms and conditions of equity-settled share-based payments at the time they were granted are subsequently modified, the fair value of the share-based payment under the original terms and conditions and under the modified terms and conditions are both determined at the date of the modification. Any excess of the modified fair value over the original fair value is recognised over the remaining vesting period in addition to the grant date fair value of the original share-based payment. The share-based payment expense is not adjusted if the modified fair value is less than the original fair value.

 

Cancellations or settlements (including those resulting from employee redundancies) are treated as an acceleration of vesting and the amount that would have been recognised over the remaining vesting period is recognised immediately.

LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 25 -
1.15
Leases

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

 

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

There is 'other income' from sub-letting a property. This is invoiced quarterly, with the one month recognised and two months deferred, released monthly over the remainder of the quarter. Initial direct costs incurred in negotiating and arranging an operating lease are added to the carrying amount of the leased asset and recognised on a straight line basis over the lease term.

1.16
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.

1.17

Research and development costs

Research and development expenditure is recognised as an expense in the year in which it is incurred.

1.18

VGTR

The company qualifies for video games tax relief (VGTR). The video games tax relief credit is recognised on an accruals basis where there is a reasonable expectation that the balance will be recovered.

2
Judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty

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

 

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

LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
2
Judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty
(Continued)
- 26 -
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.

Recovery of deferred tax assets

The group has substantial tax losses available for carry forward against future tax profits. Management exercise judgement over whether deferred tax assets are recognised in respect of these losses only if the group considers it probable that future taxable amounts will be available to utilise those temporary differences and losses.

Video games tax relief (VGTR)

Judgement is involved in the review of core expenditure in line with the government guidelines of qualifying expenditure. These are defined as expenditure incurred in designing, producing and testing of games. At least 25% of core expenditure must be incurred on goods or services provided from within the European Economic Area (EEA). Management conduct a thorough review of all expenditure to ensure it meets the criteria for claiming the tax relief.

Valuation of share-based payments

Share-based payments are valued at the date of grant using a Black Scholes pricing model. The key judgements relate to the inputs to the pricing model which include share price volatility, historical and expected dividends and expected future performance of the entity to which the award relates (refer to note 6 for further information).

 

3
Turnover and other revenue
2024
2023
£'000
£'000
Turnover analysed by class of business
Supply of technology services
18,320
13,862
Project revenue
-
1,159
18,320
15,021
2024
2023
£'000
£'000
Turnover analysed by geographical market
United Kingdom
773
571
Rest of Europe
3,497
2,480
United States of America
7,203
6,959
Rest of World
6,847
5,011
18,320
15,021
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
3
Turnover and other revenue
(Continued)
- 27 -
2024
2023
£'000
£'000
Other revenue
Interest income
221
168
Rental income
191
167
4
Operating loss
2024
2023
£'000
£'000
Operating loss for the year is stated after charging/(crediting):
Exchange losses/(gains)
45
(30)
Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets
168
159
Loss/(profit) on disposal of tangible fixed assets
2
(1)
Amortisation of intangible assets
9
1
Share-based payments
479
80
Operating lease charges
208
190
5
Auditor's remuneration
2024
2023
Fees payable to the company's auditor and associates:
£'000
£'000
For audit services
Audit of the financial statements of the group and company
51
65
6
Employees

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

Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
Number
Number
Number
Number
Programming, administration and management
102
113
77
79
Directors
2
2
2
2
Total
104
115
79
81
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
6
Employees
(Continued)
- 28 -

Their aggregate remuneration comprised:

Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
Wages and salaries
8,097
5,782
6,534
4,478
Social security costs
959
766
654
503
Pension costs
309
241
271
212
9,365
6,789
7,459
5,193
7
Directors' remuneration
2024
2023
£'000
£'000
Remuneration for qualifying services
504
345
Company pension contributions to defined contribution schemes
14
19
518
364

The number of directors for whom retirement benefits are accruing under defined contribution schemes amounted to 2 (2023 - 2).

The number of directors who are entitled to receive shares under long term incentive schemes during the year was 2 (2023 - 2).

Remuneration disclosed above includes the following amounts paid to the highest paid director:
2024
2023
£'000
£'000
Remuneration for qualifying services
294
205
Company pension contributions to defined contribution schemes
7
10
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 29 -
8
Interest receivable and similar income
2024
2023
£'000
£'000
Interest income
Interest on bank deposits
221
128
Other interest income
-
40
Total income
221
168
2024
2023
Investment income includes the following:
£'000
£'000
Interest on financial assets not measured at fair value through profit or loss
221
128
9
Interest payable and similar expenses
2024
2023
£'000
£'000
Other finance costs:
Interest on finance leases and hire purchase contracts
1
1
Other interest
47
48
Total finance costs
48
49
10
Taxation
2024
2023
£'000
£'000
Current tax
UK corporation tax on profits for the current period
(2,085)
(1,705)
Foreign current tax on profits for the current period
1
-
0
Total current tax
(2,084)
(1,705)
Deferred tax
Origination and reversal of timing differences
-
0
(14)
Total tax credit
(2,084)
(1,719)
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
10
Taxation
(Continued)
- 30 -

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

2024
2023
£'000
£'000
Loss before taxation
(4,771)
(2,413)
Expected tax credit based on the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 25.00% (2023: 25.00%)
(1,193)
(603)
Tax effect of expenses that are not deductible in determining taxable profit
91
10
Permanent capital allowances in excess of depreciation
-
0
1
Deferred tax adjustments in respect of prior years
1,103
578
Video game development tax profit adjustment
(2,085)
(1,705)
Taxation credit
(2,084)
(1,719)
11
Intangible fixed assets
Group
Software
£'000
Cost
At 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2024
43
Amortisation and impairment
At 1 January 2024
1
Amortisation charged for the year
9
At 31 December 2024
10
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2024
33
At 31 December 2023
42
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
11
Intangible fixed assets
(Continued)
- 31 -
Company
Software
£'000
Cost
At 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2024
43
Amortisation and impairment
At 1 January 2024
1
Amortisation charged for the year
9
At 31 December 2024
10
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2024
33
At 31 December 2023
42
12
Tangible fixed assets
Group
Leasehold improvements
Fixtures, fittings and equipment
Computer equipment
Total
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
Cost
At 1 January 2024
221
401
108
730
Additions
-
0
35
-
0
35
Disposals
-
0
(8)
-
0
(8)
At 31 December 2024
221
428
108
757
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 January 2024
165
269
67
501
Depreciation charged in the year
44
102
22
168
Eliminated in respect of disposals
-
0
(4)
-
0
(4)
At 31 December 2024
209
367
89
665
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2024
12
61
19
92
At 31 December 2023
56
132
41
229
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
12
Tangible fixed assets
(Continued)
- 32 -
Company
Leasehold improvements
Fixtures, fittings and equipment
Computer equipment
Total
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
Cost
At 1 January 2024
221
324
108
653
Additions
-
0
31
-
0
31
Disposals
-
0
(8)
-
0
(8)
At 31 December 2024
221
347
108
676
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 January 2024
165
210
67
442
Depreciation charged in the year
44
89
22
155
Eliminated in respect of disposals
-
0
(6)
-
0
(6)
At 31 December 2024
209
293
89
591
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2024
12
54
19
85
At 31 December 2023
56
114
41
211
13
Fixed asset investments
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
Notes
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
Investments in subsidiaries
14
-
0
-
0
41
41
Movements in fixed asset investments
Company
Shares in subsidiaries
£'000
Cost or valuation
At 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2024
41
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2024
41
At 31 December 2023
41
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 33 -
14
Subsidiaries

Details of the company's subsidiaries at 31 December 2024 are as follows:

Name of undertaking
Registered office
Class of
% Held
shares held
Direct
LKWD Publishing, UAB
Antakinio G.17 10312 Vilnius, Lithuania
Ordinary
100.00
Lockwood Publishing LISBOA Unipessoal LDA
Avenida Antonio Augusto Aguiar No 122C Piso 8, Gabinete 8.2 1050-046 Lisboa
Ordinary
100.00
Lockwood Publishing Vietnam Co., Ltd
Floor 12B, Cienco 4 Building, 180 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Vo Thi Sau Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Ordinary
100.00
15
Debtors
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
Amounts falling due within one year:
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
Trade debtors
141
222
5
182
Corporation tax recoverable
3,786
4,268
3,786
4,263
Other debtors
324
302
275
186
Prepayments and accrued income
2,762
2,851
2,762
2,848
7,013
7,643
6,828
7,479
16
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
Notes
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
Obligations under finance leases
18
6
19
6
19
Trade creditors
341
591
285
588
Amounts owed to group undertakings
-
0
-
0
285
140
Other taxation and social security
152
279
148
227
Other creditors
267
75
41
54
Accruals and deferred income
1,139
1,352
1,139
1,117
1,905
2,316
1,904
2,145
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 34 -
17
Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
Notes
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
Obligations under finance leases
18
-
0
5
-
0
5
18
Finance lease obligations
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
Future minimum lease payments due under finance leases:
Within one year
6
19
6
19
In two to five years
-
0
5
-
0
5
6
24
6
24

Finance lease payments represent rentals payable by the group for computer equipment. Leases include purchase options at the end of the lease period, and no restrictions are placed on the use of the assets. The average lease term is now within 1 year. All leases are on a fixed repayment basis and no arrangements have been entered into for contingent rental payments.

19
Deferred taxation

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

Liabilities
Liabilities
2024
2023
Group
£'000
£'000
Accelerated capital allowances
37
42
Tax losses
-
(5)
37
37
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
19
Deferred taxation
(Continued)
- 35 -
Liabilities
Liabilities
2024
2023
Company
£'000
£'000
Accelerated capital allowances
37
42
Tax losses
-
(5)
37
37
There were no deferred tax movements in the year.

The deferred tax liability set out above is expected to reverse within 12 months and relates to accelerated capital allowances that are expected to mature within the same period.

20
Retirement benefit schemes
2024
2023
Defined contribution schemes
£'000
£'000
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes
309
241

A defined contribution pension scheme is operated for all qualifying employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the group in an independently administered fund.

21
Share-based payment transactions
Group and company
Number of share options
Weighted average exercise price
2024
2023
2024
2023
Number
Number
£'000
£'000
Outstanding at 1 January 2024
14,298
8,981
0.01
0.01
Granted
1,206
10,099
0.01
0.01
Forfeited
(1,684)
(615)
-
0.01
Exercised
-
(4,167)
0.01
0.01
Outstanding at 31 December 2024
13,820
14,298
0.01
0.01
Exercisable at 31 December 2024
-
-
-
-

The options outstanding at 31 December 2024 had an exercise price of £0.01 (2023 - £0.01) and a remaining contractual life of 3 years (2023 - 3 years).

LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
21
Share-based payment transactions
(Continued)
- 36 -
Group and company

The share option scheme commenced in November 2020, at which point there was an issue to all staff. Options are granted to all employees of the group, as well as some full-time contractors. The amount of options granted are based on the seniority level of the employees.

In the financial period, share options issued in the prior financial year were cancelled and subsequently reissued. The fair value of the reissued options (per share) has increased, and the vesting period has been lengthened by one year. Given the increase in fair value this is considered to be beneficial to the employee and therefore management have concluded the reissue to be a modification of options issued in the prior year.

The weighted average fair value of options granted in the year was determined by the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The Black-Scholes model is considered to apply the most appropriate valuation method due to the relatively short contractual lives of the options and the requirement to exercise within a short period after the employee becomes entitled to the shares (the "vesting date").

The expected life used in the model has been adjusted, based on management's best estimate, for the effect of non-transferability, exercise restrictions, and behavioural conditions. Non-vesting conditions and market conditions are taken into account when estimating the fair value of the option at the grant date. Service conditions and non-market performance conditions are taken into account by adjusting the number of options expected to vest at each reporting date. The expected vesting date of the 2021 options has been revised from 2023 to 2026. This has resulted in a share based payment credit in the period in respect of the 2021 options still in issue.

 

Inputs were as follows:
2024
2023
Weighted average share price
252.54
241.38
Weighted average exercise price
0.01
0.01
Expected volatility
5.00
5.00
Expected life
3.00
3.00
Risk free rate
0.75
0.75
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
Expenses recognised in the year
Arising from equity settled share based payment transactions
479
80
479
80
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 37 -
22
Share capital
Group and company
2024
2023
2024
2023
Ordinary share capital
Number
Number
£'000
£'000
Issued and fully paid
Ordinary shares of 0.1p each
156,659
156,659
2
2
23
Reserves
Profit and loss reserves

Cumulative profit and loss net of distributions to owners.

 

Share option reserve

The cumulative share-based payment expense less amounts realised on the exercise or lapse of options.

 

Share premium

Consideration received for shares issued above their nominal value net of transaction costs.

 

24
Operating lease commitments

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

Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
Within one year
49
232
49
232
Between two and five years
-
193
-
193
49
425
49
425
Lessor

At the reporting end date the group had contracted with tenants for the following minimum lease payments:

Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£'000
£'000
£'000
£'000
Within one year
-
175
-
175
Between two and five years
-
149
-
149
-
324
-
324
LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
24
Operating lease commitments
(Continued)
- 38 -

With regards to lessees, the business surrendered the lease after the year end with an effective date of October 2025. The commitment shown is the minimum to and including this date.

 

With regards to lessors, the tenant filed to surrender the lease during the period so no commitment exists as at the year end date.

25
Events after the reporting date

Subsequent to the balance sheet date, the Group has initiated plans to wind up its wholly owned subsidiaries located in Vietnam and Lithuania.

 

These decisions were made as part of a strategic review of the Group’s international operations and are expected to be completed within the next financial year. The financial impact of these windings-up is not expected to be material to the Group’s consolidated financial statements.

26
Related party transactions
Remuneration of key management personnel

The remuneration of key management personnel is as follows.

2024
2023
£'000
£'000
Aggregate compensation
1,985
1,166

The remuneration disclosed above is not directly comparable as the number of employees defined as key management personnel has increased in the current year, as well as the current year relating to a 12-month period whereas the prior year relates to a 9-month period only.

LOCKWOOD PUBLISHING LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 39 -
27
Cash absorbed by group operations
2024
2023
£'000
£'000
Loss for the year after tax
(2,687)
(693)
Adjustments for:
Taxation credited
(2,084)
(1,719)
Finance costs
48
48
Investment income
(221)
(168)
(Gain)/loss on disposal of tangible fixed assets
-
1
Effects of foreign currency transactions
(36)
-
Amortisation and impairment of intangible assets
10
1
Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets
168
158
Foreign exchange gains on cash equivalents
2
1
Equity settled share based payment expense
479
80
Movements in working capital:
Decrease/(increase) in debtors
147
(170)
(Decrease)/increase in creditors
(398)
308
Cash absorbed by operations
(4,572)
(2,153)
28
Analysis of changes in net funds - group
1 January 2024
Cash flows
31 December 2024
£'000
£'000
£'000
Cash at bank and in hand
6,980
(1,884)
5,096
Obligations under finance leases
(24)
18
(6)
6,956
(1,866)
5,090
2024-12-312024-01-01falsefalseCCH SoftwareCCH Accounts Production 2025.200H BjornssonD HelgasonK HiltonM MaslowiczB RagnarssonA Sveinssonfalse06242481bus:Consolidated2024-01-012024-12-31062424812024-01-012024-12-3106242481bus:Director12024-01-012024-12-3106242481bus:Director22024-01-012024-12-3106242481bus:Director32024-01-012024-12-3106242481bus:Director42024-01-012024-12-3106242481bus:Director52024-01-012024-12-3106242481bus:Director62024-01-012024-12-3106242481bus:RegisteredOffice2024-01-012024-12-31062424812024-12-3106242481bus:Consolidated2024-12-3106242481bus:Consolidated2023-04-012023-12-31062424812023-04-012023-12-3106242481core:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLossesbus:Consolidated2024-01-012024-12-3106242481core:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLossesbus:Consolidated2023-04-012023-12-3106242481core:OtherResidualIntangibleAssetsbus:Consolidated2024-12-3106242481core:OtherResidualIntangibleAssetsbus:Consolidated2023-12-3106242481core:IntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill2024-12-3106242481core:IntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill2023-12-3106242481core:ComputerSoftwarebus:Consolidated2024-12-3106242481core:ComputerSoftwarebus:Consolidated2023-12-3106242481core:ComputerSoftware2024-12-3106242481core:ComputerSoftware2023-12-3106242481bus:Consolidated2023-12-31062424812023-12-3106242481core:LeaseholdImprovementsbus:Consolidated2024-12-3106242481core:PlantMachinerybus:Consolidated2024-12-3106242481core:FurnitureFittingsbus:Consolidated2024-12-3106242481core:LeaseholdImprovementsbus:Consolidated2023-12-3106242481core:PlantMachinerybus:Consolidated2023-12-3106242481core:FurnitureFittingsbus:Consolidated2023-12-3106242481core:LeaseholdImprovements2024-12-3106242481core:PlantMachinery2024-12-3106242481core:FurnitureFittings2024-12-3106242481core:LeaseholdImprovements2023-12-3106242481core:PlantMachinery2023-12-3106242481core:FurnitureFittings2023-12-3106242481core:ShareCapitalbus:Consolidated2024-12-3106242481core:ShareCapitalbus:Consolidated2023-12-3106242481core:SharePremiumbus:Consolidated2024-12-3106242481core:SharePremiumbus:Consolidated2023-12-3106242481core:OtherMiscellaneousReservebus:Consolidated2024-12-3106242481core:OtherMiscellaneousReservebus:Consolidated2023-12-3106242481core:ShareCapital2024-12-3106242481core:ShareCapital2023-12-3106242481core:SharePremium2024-12-3106242481core:SharePremium2023-12-3106242481core:OtherMiscellaneousReserve2024-12-3106242481core:OtherMiscellaneousReserve2023-12-3106242481core:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses2024-12-3106242481core:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses2023-12-3106242481core:ShareCapitalbus:Consolidated2023-03-3106242481core:SharePremiumbus:Consolidated2023-03-31062424812023-03-3106242481core:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLossesbus:Consolidated2024-12-3106242481core:ShareCapital2023-03-3106242481core:SharePremium2023-03-3106242481core:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses2023-03-3106242481core:IntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill2024-01-012024-12-3106242481core:ComputerSoftware2024-01-012024-12-3106242481core:LeaseholdImprovements2024-01-012024-12-3106242481core:PlantMachinery2024-01-012024-12-3106242481core:FurnitureFittings2024-01-012024-12-3106242481core:UKTaxbus:Consolidated2024-01-012024-12-3106242481core:UKTaxbus:Consolidated2023-04-012023-12-3106242481core:ForeignTaxbus:Consolidated2024-01-012024-12-3106242481core:ForeignTaxbus:Consolidated2023-04-012023-12-3106242481bus:Consolidated12024-01-012024-12-3106242481bus:Consolidated12023-04-012023-12-3106242481core:ComputerSoftwarebus:Consolidated2023-12-3106242481core:ComputerSoftware2023-12-3106242481core:ComputerSoftwarebus:Consolidated2024-01-012024-12-3106242481core:LeaseholdImprovementsbus:Consolidated2023-12-3106242481core:PlantMachinerybus:Consolidated2023-12-3106242481core:FurnitureFittingsbus:Consolidated2023-12-3106242481bus:Consolidated2023-12-3106242481core:LeaseholdImprovements2023-12-3106242481core:PlantMachinery2023-12-3106242481core:FurnitureFittings2023-12-31062424812023-12-3106242481core:LeaseholdImprovementsbus:Consolidated2024-01-012024-12-3106242481core:PlantMachinerybus:Consolidated2024-01-012024-12-3106242481core:FurnitureFittingsbus:Consolidated2024-01-012024-12-3106242481core:Subsidiary12024-01-012024-12-3106242481core:Subsidiary22024-01-012024-12-3106242481core:Subsidiary32024-01-012024-12-3106242481core:Subsidiary112024-01-012024-12-3106242481core:Subsidiary222024-01-012024-12-3106242481core:Subsidiary332024-01-012024-12-3106242481core:CurrentFinancialInstruments2024-12-3106242481core:CurrentFinancialInstruments2023-12-3106242481core:CurrentFinancialInstrumentsbus:Consolidated2024-12-3106242481core:CurrentFinancialInstrumentsbus:Consolidated2023-12-3106242481core:Non-currentFinancialInstrumentsbus:Consolidated2024-12-3106242481core:Non-currentFinancialInstrumentsbus:Consolidated2023-12-3106242481core:Non-currentFinancialInstruments2024-12-3106242481core:Non-currentFinancialInstruments2023-12-3106242481core:CurrentFinancialInstrumentscore:WithinOneYearbus:Consolidated2024-12-3106242481core:CurrentFinancialInstrumentscore:WithinOneYearbus:Consolidated2023-12-3106242481core:CurrentFinancialInstrumentscore:WithinOneYear2024-12-3106242481core:CurrentFinancialInstrumentscore:WithinOneYear2023-12-3106242481core:WithinOneYearbus:Consolidated2024-12-3106242481core:WithinOneYearbus:Consolidated2023-12-3106242481core:WithinOneYear2024-12-3106242481core:WithinOneYear2023-12-3106242481core:BetweenTwoFiveYearsbus:Consolidated2024-12-3106242481core:BetweenTwoFiveYearsbus:Consolidated2023-12-3106242481core:BetweenTwoFiveYears2024-12-3106242481core:BetweenTwoFiveYears2023-12-3106242481bus:PrivateLimitedCompanyLtd2024-01-012024-12-3106242481bus:FRS1022024-01-012024-12-3106242481bus:Audited2024-01-012024-12-3106242481bus:ConsolidatedGroupCompanyAccounts2024-01-012024-12-3106242481bus:FullAccounts2024-01-012024-12-31xbrli:purexbrli:sharesiso4217:GBP