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Registered number: 00889226










LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED










ANNUAL REPORT AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
COMPANY INFORMATION


Directors
R J Leighton FBDO 
L Lewington 
T M Leighton 
R P Leighton 
R E Sharp 
A Panteli (appointed 6 January 2025)




Registered number
00889226



Registered office
Clarendon House
63 Downing Street

Farnham

Surrey

GU9 7PN




Independent auditor
Shaw Gibbs (Audit) Limited
Statutory Auditor

Wey Court West

Union Road

Farnham

Surrey

GU9 7PT





 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 

CONTENTS



Page
Group strategic report
 
1 - 4
Directors' report
 
5 - 8
Directors' responsibilities statement
 
9
Independent auditor's report
 
10 - 13
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income
 
14
Consolidated statement of financial position
 
15 - 16
Company statement of financial position
 
17 - 18
Consolidated statement of changes in equity
 
19 - 25
Company statement of changes in equity
 
26 - 27
Consolidated statement of cash flows
 
28 - 29
Consolidated analysis of net debt
 
30
Notes to the financial statements
 
31 - 70


 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
GROUP STRATEGIC REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

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

Business review
 
The principal activity of the Group was that of retail opticians and audiology services. 
Leightons operates in the premium segments of its respective markets and continues to differentiate with a focus on highly personalised, clinical and caring service, together with best in market products.
In 2024, the Group delivered:
• A record revenue of £57.8m, with year-on-year growth of 11% and over half of Group revenue now being  attributed to audiology services
• Continued strong performance of the branch network of 36 sites
• An increase in nationwide audiology partners to over 300
The Group continues to invest in staff recruitment, training and career development with a focus on clinical, customer experience, leadership, communication and financial management. 

Key performance indicators
 

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Page 1

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 

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

Outlook
 
The business remains committed to the growth strategy and efficiency enhancements, with the benefits of these investments expected to continue to yield growth across all areas of the business in 2025.  EBITDA margin in 2024 is 7.5%.  As a result of revenue growth and efficiency enhancements we expect EBITDA margin to increase to c10% in 2025.
The Group will continue to invest into the people, systems and services that will help support customers and partners with a market-leading optical and audiology service. 
Principal risks and uncertainties
The Group significantly reduced its future financial risks by making a payment in the year of £4.6m to settle the defined benefit pension deficit. The Group will be seeking a full buy out of its pension scheme in 2025 to eliminate future financial risks arising from the pension scheme.
The Group is exposed to the wider economic conditions, specifically the tightening of monetary policy and the increase of cost of living in the UK.

Page 2

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 

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

Directors' statement of compliance with duty to promote the success of the Group
 
This statement, which forms part of the Strategic Report, for Leightons Holdings and group and is intended to show how the Directors have approached and met their responsibilities under Section 172(1) statement in accordance with the Companies Act 2006. 
As directors of the company, we have duly considered our duty to promote the success of the company for the benefit of its members as a whole, taking into account various matters outlined under Section 172(1).
The Board has carefully assessed the likely consequences of any decision on the long-term. We recognise the importance of maintaining sustainable growth and maximising value for all stakeholders, and at our monthly Board meetings we review the potential impact of short-term changes against the future success of the company. The Board has focused this year on developing our purpose of helping people to see and to hear in order that they can live life to the full and with a strategy of improving customer experience, building stronger teams and delivering quality growth. 
The Board takes a longer-term view into consideration with investments that support a highly personalised and differentiated customer experience whilst also being able to support the growth of a high-quality business. These decisions in turn provide positive cash flows and a strong balance sheet and have allowed the Group to clear the deficit in Leightons’ defined benefit pension scheme in the year.
The Board receives regular reports from across the business on performance, financial results and the implementation of projects whilst also taking into context external events such as increased interest rates that might have an impact on consuming spending. The Board reviews the feedback monthly and takes learnings and makes corrective action as required.
The Board have given significant attention to the interests of the company's employees. We believe that our highly engaged and passionate people are the most crucial element to enable the delivery of our high value service. The Board is proactive in facilitating support and making investments to create highly attractive conditions and an environment that allows our people to thrive and excel in their chosen areas of specialisation with opportunity for positive career development. In turn we aim to recruit and retain the very best talent in our market, and they play a central role in the overall success of our business.  The Directors ensure that the Group is an equal opportunities employer and is fair to its employees in pay and benefits. We continually strive to create an inspiring, safe, fair, and productive work environment, fostering positive employee relations and facilitating professional growth opportunities.
The Board acknowledges and is proactive in nurturing and enhancing our business relationships with suppliers, partners, customers, and other key stakeholders. We understand the significance of maintaining strong collaborations and partnerships to ensure mutual benefits that contribute to the company's long-term growth and sustainability. 
It is stated as part of our values or DNA that we listen, empathise, educate and delight and this goes for our approach to our customers, suppliers and our people.  With this DNA at the heart of decision making we believe that we act with aligned interests and in pursuit of the higher purpose of helping people to live life more fully through the care, products and services that we provide. 
The Board strongly believes in upholding the highest standards of business conduct, as reflected in our integrity, transparency, and ethical practices. Maintaining a reputation for acting responsibly from a clinical perspective is of utmost importance to us. These standards are upheld not just by our values and culture, and by the business and our qualified staff belonging to the relevant regulatory bodies but also by our ongoing audits, training and development. 
The Directors recognise their responsibility to act fairly between the members of the company. We strive to ensure fair treatment and equality among our members, considering their respective interests and rights in a balanced and unbiased manner. 

Page 3

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 

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


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







R P Leighton
Director

Date: 30 October 2025

Page 4

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS 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.

The directors of the company were Richard Leighton, Ryan Leighton, Tanya Leighton, Lisa Lewington, Rebecca Sharp and Andreas Panteli (appointed 6 January 2025).
The company has no qualifying third party indemnity provisions in force.
During the audit process, the Company provided the auditors with complete access to all relevant financial records, documentation, and information required for their examination.
The Company did not make any political donations during the fiscal year.
The Company acknowledges that various risks are associated with the use of financial instruments in the course of business activities. These risks can encompass market volatility, interest rate fluctuations, and foreign exchange rate movements, among others.
It is important to note that the Company's financial strategy is structured in such a way that it minimizes exposure to these risks. As a matter of policy, the Company does not utilise any financial instruments, such as derivatives or options, in its financial operations. Consequently, the risks commonly associated with such instruments do not apply to our financial positions.
Our approach to financial risk management is rooted in simplicity and stability, with a primary focus on preserving and enhancing shareholder value. By refraining from the use of financial instruments, we aim to maintain a straightforward and transparent financial profile that aligns with our commitment to responsible and conservative financial practices.
As we review the period following the conclusion of the financial year, we find that there were no specific important events that directly impacted the company during this time. Our operations continued in accordance with our business plan, and we maintained stability and consistency in our activities.
This lack of specific events should not be interpreted as a lack of action or progress. On the contrary, we have been diligently focused on the execution of our strategic initiatives and the continued growth and improvement of our business.
Our commitment to delivering value to our stakeholders remains steadfast, and we are dedicated to providing any necessary updates or disclosures should any significant events arise in the future. We take pride in our transparency and accountability to our shareholders and other stakeholders and will promptly communicate any material developments that may impact our business.
The Company is committed to expanding its core operations at Leightons and The Hearing Care Partnership in the coming year, with a focus on enhancing the service proposition and improving the customer experience. The business will continue to grow the number of new hearing care partners and will also expand via acquisition to enhance shareholder value.
At Leightons and The Hearing Care Partnership we have adopted a comprehensive approach to innovation that extends beyond the traditional boundaries of Research and Development (R&D). While R&D plays a vital role in many industries, our strategy is to foster innovation across every facet of our operations.
Our commitment to innovation is reflected in our approach to not only enhance our products and services but also to streamline and optimise our internal processes. We firmly believe that innovation is not confined to a specific department but should permeate every aspect of our business.
At this juncture, for the current financial period, our Board of Directors has decided not to recommend any dividend distribution. This decision aligns with our strategic focus on reinvesting in the growth and sustainability of our company.
 
Page 5

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

As of the latest reporting period, our company's operations are primarily concentrated within the United Kingdom. While we have a robust and diverse presence in the UK, we do not currently have branches or subsidiaries operating outside the UK.
The directors recognise the importance of promoting staff involvement within the organisation and endeavour to create a culture in which individuals feel part of a team. Business related and social matters are communicated regularly to all employees via various routes including virtual conferences, intranet and regular branch, area and company wide meetings.  In addition to day to day employee feedback, staff surveys are conducted, enabling employee views from across the whole company to be considered.
 
The recruitment process must result in the selection of the most suitable candidate for the job on the basis of their experience and qualifications. Applications must be considered from all sections of the community for all vacancies. Only qualifications and skills that are essential for the position should be established as criteria for selection and these may include academic or professional qualifications and experience. No pre-judgements should be made by recruiters on the suitability of an applicant because of their race, sex, sexual orientation, religious belief or disability and all applicants should be given equal consideration.
 
Leightons believe that its most valuable resource is its Employees and that appropriate training and development opportunities should be available to all Employees irrespective of race, colour, nationality, ethnic origin, disability, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, pregnancy, religion or belief or marital status.  The Company encourages all Employees to develop in their career for the mutual benefit of both the Company and individual. 
Leightons strive to determine and put in place reasonable adjustments for new or existing employees with a disability.  Employees who become disabled during their working life will be retained in employment wherever possible and will receive appropriate retraining and workplace modification where possible to facilitate their return to work.
In the spirit of fostering robust business relationships, our company is committed to engaging proactively with our suppliers, customers, and various stakeholders. Throughout the year, our board of directors has consistently considered the importance of nurturing these relationships, recognising their pivotal role in our company's growth and sustainability.
Our engagement efforts have been multifaceted, encompassing various aspects of our business operations:
Supplier Relations: We have maintained open channels of communication with our suppliers, working collaboratively to ensure the timely delivery of high-quality materials and services. This engagement has allowed us to enhance efficiency, optimise costs, and strengthen the reliability of our supply chain.
Customer-Centric Approach: Our dedication to customer service has been unwavering. We have actively sought feedback from our customers, valuing their insights to refine our products and services. This approach has contributed to improved customer experiences and strengthened brand loyalty.
Stakeholders: We have engaged with our key stakeholders to better understand their perspectives and concerns. These dialogues have influenced our strategic decisions, including those related to corporate responsibility, sustainability, and corporate governance.
Decision-Making Impact: Our commitment to fostering business relationships has directly impacted our decision-making processes and ensure that they align with the expectations and interests of our stakeholders.
As we move forward, we remain dedicated to the principles of openness, transparency, and collaboration in our interactions with suppliers, customers, and other stakeholders. We recognise that these relationships are integral to our success and will continue to be central to our strategic direction.
This response emphasizes the company's commitment to engaging with stakeholders, highlights the positive
Page 6

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
impact of these engagements on decision-making, and underscores the importance of these relationships for future endeavors.
STREAMLINED ENERGY & CARBON REPORTING
GHG Emissions and Energy Consumption
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Energy Efficiency and Environmental Actions
Our head office and 20 practices have been refurbished in the last 4 years which has seen an update in lighting systems to incorporate LED technology and replacement air conditioning units resulting in an accumulative reduction in energy consumption by up to 30%. Our property strategy will be to continue this process next year with a further 5 branches expected to have the same upgrades applied.
Our car fleet contains 50 fully electric cars and 49 plug-in hybrid cars which help to create a more sustainable environment whilst supporting our employees with reduced running costs and P11D values to aid our employee proposition. 

Page 7

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Matters covered in the Group Strategic Report

The principal risks and uncertainties, financial key performance indicators and future developments (outlook) are covered in the Strategic report.

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 and the Group'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 and the Group's auditor is aware of that information.

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







R P Leighton
Director

Date: 30 October 2025

Page 8

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITIES STATEMENT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

The directors are responsible for preparing the Group strategic report, the Directors' report and the consolidated 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 the Group and of the profit or loss of the Group for that period.

 In preparing these financial statements, the directors are required to:

select suitable accounting policies for the Group's financial statements and then apply them consistently;

make judgments 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;

prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Group 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 the Group 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 the Group and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Page 9

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 

Opinion


We have audited the financial statements of Leightons Holdings Limited (the 'parent Company') and its subsidiaries (the 'Group') for the year ended 31 December 2024, which comprise the Consolidated statement of comprehensive income, the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position, the Company Statement of Financial Position, the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows, the Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity, the Company 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 Group's and of the parent Company's affairs as at 31 December 2024 and of the Group's 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 Group 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 Group's or the 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.


Page 10

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS 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 Group 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 Group 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 Group and the parent Company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the Group 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 by the parent Company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or
the parent Company 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.


Page 11

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED (CONTINUED)


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 Group's and 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 Group or the parent Company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.


Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements
 

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

We gained an understanding of the legal and regulatory framework applicable to the Group and parent Company and the industry in which it operates, and considered the risk of acts by the Group and parent Company that were contrary to applicable laws and regulations, including fraud. We designed audit procedures to respond to the risk, recognising that 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.
We focussed on laws and regulations which could give rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements, including, but not limited to, the Companies Act 2006 and UK tax legislation. 
Our tests included agreeing the financial statement disclosures to underlying supporting documentation and enquiries with management. There are inherent limitations in the audit procedures described above and, the further removed non-compliance with laws and regulations is from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, the less likely we would become aware of it. We did not identify any key audit matters relating to irregularities, including fraud. As in all our audits, we also addressed the risk of management override of internal controls, including testing journals and evaluating whether there was evidence of bias by the directors that represented a risk of material misstatement due to fraud.


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

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS 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.







Stephen Morgan FCA (Senior statutory auditor)
for and on behalf of
Shaw Gibbs (Audit) Limited
Statutory Auditor
Wey Court West
Union Road
Farnham
Surrey
GU9 7PT

30 October 2025
Page 13

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024


As restated
2024
2023
Note
£
£

  

Turnover
 4 
57,812,461
52,048,352

Cost of sales
  
(14,528,115)
(12,752,737)

Gross profit
  
43,284,346
39,295,615

Distribution costs
  
(24,086,157)
(22,580,537)

Administrative expenses
  
(16,624,602)
(14,492,357)

Other operating income
 5 
363,987
451,436

Operating profit
 6 
2,937,574
2,674,157

Share of profit of joint venture
  
4,821
57,416

Total operating profit
  
2,942,395
2,731,573

Interest receivable and similar income
 10 
70,567
25,567

Interest payable and similar expenses
 11 
(6,474)
(22,064)

Other finance income
 12 
(30,000)
(131,000)

Profit before taxation
  
2,976,488
2,604,076

Tax on profit
 13 
(974,832)
(594,722)

Profit for the financial year
  
2,001,656
2,009,354

  

Actuarial losses on defined benefit pension scheme
  
(54,000)
(286,000)

Pension surplus not recognised
  
(1,510,000)
-

Movement of deferred tax relating to pension scheme
  
391,000
(71,500)

Gain on revaluation of investment property
  
15,000
-

Joint venture becoming subsidiary
  
(125,775)
-

Other comprehensive income for the year
  
(1,283,775)
(357,500)

Total comprehensive income for the year
  
717,881
1,651,854

Profit for the year attributable to:
  

Non-controlling interests
  
24,722
-

Owners of the parent Company
  
1,976,934
2,009,354

  
2,001,656
2,009,354

The notes on pages 31 to 70 form part of these financial statements.

Page 14

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
REGISTERED NUMBER: 00889226

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024

As restated
2024
2023
Note
£
£

Fixed assets
  

Intangible Assets
 16 
2,192,465
1,344,000

Tangible Fixed Assets
 17 
3,923,452
3,819,438

Investments
 18 
-
145,155

Investment property
 19 
550,000
535,000

  
6,665,917
5,843,593

Current assets
  

Stocks
 20 
1,908,812
1,695,884

Debtors: amounts falling due after more than one year
 21 
18,010
17,773

Debtors: amounts falling due within one year
 21 
7,675,605
6,036,226

Cash at bank and in hand
 22 
6,056,772
7,692,457

  
15,659,199
15,442,340

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
 23 
(8,315,111)
(5,500,236)

Net current assets
  
 
 
7,344,088
 
 
9,942,104

Total assets less current liabilities
  
14,010,005
15,785,697

Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year
 24 
(262,178)
(17,774)

Provisions for liabilities
  

Deferred taxation
 28 
(145,659)
(124,956)

  
 
 
(145,659)
 
 
(124,956)

Net assets excluding pension liability/asset
  
13,602,168
15,642,967

Pension asset/liability
  
-
(2,901,000)

Net assets
  
13,602,168
12,741,967

Page 15

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
REGISTERED NUMBER: 00889226
    
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION (CONTINUED)
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024

As restated
2024
2023
Note
£
£

Capital and reserves
  

Called up share capital 
 29 
515,823
515,823

Share premium account
 30 
484,603
484,603

Revaluation reserve
 30 
95,699
95,699

Capital redemption reserve
 30 
6,624
6,624

Investment property reserve
 30 
542,699
527,699

Profit and loss account
 30 
11,777,678
11,111,519

Equity attributable to owners of the parent Company
  
13,423,126
12,741,967

Non-controlling interests
  
179,042
-

  
13,602,168
12,741,967


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






R P Leighton
Director

Date: 30 October 2025

The notes on pages 31 to 70 form part of these financial statements.

Page 16

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
REGISTERED NUMBER: 00889226

COMPANY STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024

2024
2023
Note
£
£

Fixed assets
  

Tangible assets
 17 
2,984
4,254

Investments
 18 
77,714
77,714

Investment property
  
653,000
638,000

  
733,698
719,968

Current assets
  

Debtors: amounts falling due within one year
 21 
6,268,170
4,181,426

Cash at bank and in hand
 22 
1,789,048
2,002,690

  
8,057,218
6,184,116

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
 23 
(7,955,599)
(6,049,143)

Net current assets
  
 
 
101,619
 
 
134,973

Total assets less current liabilities
  
835,317
854,941

  

Provisions for liabilities
  

Deferred taxation
 28 
(99,528)
(73,057)

  
 
 
(99,528)
 
 
(73,057)

Net assets
  
735,789
781,884

Page 17

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
REGISTERED NUMBER: 00889226
    
COMPANY STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION (CONTINUED)
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024

2024
2023
Note
£
£


Capital and reserves
  

Called up share capital 
 29 
515,823
515,823

Share premium account
 30 
484,603
484,603

Capital redemption reserve
 30 
6,624
6,624

Investment property reserve
 30 
638,398
623,398

Profit and loss account brought forward
  
(848,564)
(861,036)

Loss/(profit) for the year

  

(61,095)
12,472

Profit and loss account carried forward
  
(909,659)
(848,564)

  
735,789
781,884


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






R P Leighton
Director

Date: 30 October 2025

The notes on pages 31 to 70 form part of these financial statements.

Page 18
 

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED


 

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



Called up share capital
Share premium account
Capital redemption reserve
Revaluation reserve
Investment property revaluation reserve
Profit and loss account
Equity attributable to owners of parent Company
Non-controlling interests


£
£
£
£
£
£
£
£


At 1 January 2024 (as previously stated)
515,823
484,603
6,624
95,699
527,699
11,444,127
13,074,575
-


Prior year adjustment - correction of error
-
-
-
-
-
(332,608)
(332,608)
-


At 1 January 2024 (as restated)
515,823
484,603
6,624
95,699
527,699
11,111,519
12,741,967
-



Comprehensive income for the year


Profit for the year

-
-
-
-
-
1,976,934
1,976,934
24,722


Actuarial losses on pension scheme
-
-
-
-
-
(1,173,000)
(1,173,000)
-


Investment property gain on revaluation
-
-
-
-
15,000
-
15,000
-


Joint venture becoming subsidiary
-
-
-
-
-
(125,775)
(125,775)
-



Other comprehensive income for the year
-
-
-
-
15,000
(1,298,775)
(1,283,775)
-



Total comprehensive income for the year
-
-
-
-
15,000
678,159
693,159
24,722



Contributions by and distributions to owners


Dividends: Equity capital
-
-
-
-
-
(12,000)
(12,000)
-


Non controlling interest on acquisition
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
154,319
Page 19

 

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED


 


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024




Total transactions with owners
-
-
-
-
-
(12,000)
(12,000)
154,319



At 31 December 2024
515,823
484,603
6,624
95,699
542,699
11,777,678
13,423,126
179,041


Page 20

 

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED


 


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024



Total equity


£


At 1 January 2024 (as previously stated)
13,074,575


Prior year adjustment - correction of error
(332,608)


At 1 January 2024 (as restated)
12,741,967



Comprehensive income for the year


Profit for the year

2,001,656


Actuarial losses on pension scheme
(1,173,000)


Investment property gain on revaluation
15,000


Joint venture becoming subsidiary
(125,775)



Other comprehensive income for the year
(1,283,775)



Total comprehensive income for the year
717,881



Contributions by and distributions to owners


Dividends: Equity capital
(12,000)


Non controlling interest on acquisition
154,319
Page 21

 

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED


 


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024




Total transactions with owners
142,319



At 31 December 2024
13,602,167


Page 22

 

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED


 


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024


The notes on pages 31 to 70 form part of these financial statements.

Page 23

 

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED


 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023



Called up share capital
Share premium account
Capital redemption reserve
Revaluation reserve
Investment property revaluation reserve
Profit and loss account
Equity attributable to owners of parent Company
Total equity


£
£
£
£
£
£
£
£


At 1 January 2023 (as previously stated)
515,823
484,603
6,624
95,699
527,699
9,654,557
11,285,005
11,285,005


Prior year adjustment - correction of error
-
-
-
-
-
(194,892)
(194,892)
(194,892)


At 1 January 2023 (as restated)
515,823
484,603
6,624
95,699
527,699
9,459,665
11,090,113
11,090,113



Comprehensive income for the year


Profit for the year (as restated)

-
-
-
-
-
2,009,354
2,009,354
2,009,354


Actuarial losses on pension scheme
-
-
-
-
-
(357,500)
(357,500)
(357,500)



Other comprehensive income for the year
-
-
-
-
-
(357,500)
(357,500)
(357,500)



Total comprehensive income for the year
(as restated)
-
-
-
-
-
1,651,854
1,651,854
1,651,854



Total transactions with owners
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-



At 31 December 2023
 (as restated)
515,823
484,603
6,624
95,699
527,699
11,111,519
12,741,967
12,741,967



Page 24

 

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED


 


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

The notes on pages 31 to 70 form part of these financial statements.

Page 25

 

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED


 

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



Called up share capital
Share premium account
Capital redemption reserve
Investment property revaluation reserve
Profit and loss account
Total equity


£
£
£
£
£
£


At 1 January 2024
515,823
484,603
6,624
623,398
(848,564)
781,884





Loss for the year
-
-
-
-
(61,095)
(61,095)


Transfer to reserve
-
-
-
15,000
-
15,000



At 31 December 2024
515,823
484,603
6,624
638,398
(909,659)
735,789



The notes on pages 31 to 70 form part of these financial statements.

Page 26

 

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED


 

COMPANY STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023



Called up share capital
Share premium account
Capital redemption reserve
Investment property revaluation reserve
Profit and loss account
Total equity


£
£
£
£
£
£


At 1 January 2023
515,823
484,603
6,624
623,398
(861,036)
769,412





Profit for the year
-
-
-
-
12,472
12,472



At 31 December 2023
515,823
484,603
6,624
623,398
(848,564)
781,884



The notes on pages 31 to 70 form part of these financial statements.

Page 27
 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

As restated
2024
2023
£
£

Cash flows from operating activities

Profit for the financial year
2,001,656
2,009,354

Adjustments for:

Amortisation of intangible assets
343,091
287,757

Depreciation of tangible assets
1,062,865
1,005,608

Loss on disposal of tangible assets
85,041
(54,041)

Impairments of fixed assets
-
64,900

Interest paid
6,474
22,064

Interest received
(70,567)
(25,567)

Taxation charge
583,833
198,911

(Increase) in stocks
(40,578)
(149,909)

(Increase) in debtors
(1,340,204)
(343,698)

Decrease in amounts owed by joint ventures
23,495
34,276

Increase in creditors
1,928,804
543,807

(Decrease) in net pension assets/liabs
(74,000)
(365,000)

Share of operating profit/(loss)) in joint ventures
19,380
(8,569)

Corporation tax (paid)
(353,650)
(5)

Net cash generated from operating activities

4,175,640
3,219,888


Cash flows from investing activities

Purchase of intangible fixed assets
(343,133)
(15,000)

Purchase of tangible fixed assets
(1,128,133)
(462,664)

Sale of tangible fixed assets
400
-

Interest received
70,567
25,567

Purchase of subsidiaries
(367,909)
-

Net cash from investing activities

(1,768,208)
(452,097)
Page 28

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

As restated

2024
2023

£
£



Cash flows from financing activities

Repayment of loans
(11,681)
(403,788)

Repayment of/new finance leases
(12,962)
-

Interest paid
(6,273)
(21,214)

Joint ventures interest paid
(201)
(847)

Dividends paid
(12,000)
-

Payment towards pension deficit
(4,000,000)
-

Net cash used in financing activities
(4,043,117)
(425,849)

Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents
(1,635,685)
2,341,942

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
7,692,457
5,350,515

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of year
6,056,772
7,692,457


Cash and cash equivalents at the end of year comprise:

Cash at bank and in hand
6,056,772
7,692,457

6,056,772
7,692,457


The notes on pages 31 to 70 form part of these financial statements.

Page 29

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 

CONSOLIDATED ANALYSIS OF NET DEBT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024





At 1 January 2024
Cash flows
Acquisition and disposal of subsidiaries
At 31 December 2024
£

£

£

£

Cash at bank and in hand

7,692,457

(2,165,572)

529,887

6,056,772

Debt due after 1 year

-

(14,759)

-

(14,759)

Debt due within 1 year

(28,806)

(331,786)

322,907

(37,685)

Finance leases

-

(50,923)

-

(50,923)


7,663,651
(2,563,040)
852,794
5,953,405

The notes on pages 31 to 70 form part of these financial statements.

Page 30

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

1.


General information

Leightons Holdings Limited is a private company limited by shares. It is incorporated in England and Wales. Its registered number is 00889226 and registered office address is Clarendon House, 63 Downing Street, Farnham, Surrey, GU9 7PN.
These consolidated financial statements comprise the company and it subsidiaries (together referred to as the "Group").

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 Group management to exercise judgment in applying the Group's accounting policies (see note 3).

The Company has taken advantage of the exemption allowed under section 408 of the Companies Act 2006 and has not presented its own Statement of comprehensive income in these financial statements.

The financial statements are presented in Sterling to whole £s.

The following principal accounting policies have been applied:

 
2.2

Basis of consolidation

The consolidated financial statements present the results of the Company and its own subsidiaries ("the Group") as if they form a single entity. Intercompany transactions and balances between group companies are therefore eliminated in full.
The consolidated financial statements incorporate the results of business combinations using the purchase method. In the Statement of financial position, the acquiree's identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities are initially recognised at their fair values at the acquisition date. The results of acquired operations are included in the Consolidated statement of comprehensive income from the date on which control is obtained. They are deconsolidated from the date control ceases.
In accordance with the transitional exemption available in FRS 102, the Group has chosen not to retrospectively apply the standard to business combinations that occurred before the date of transition to FRS 102, being 01 January 2014.

Page 31

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.3

Foreign currency translation

Functional and presentation currency

The Company's functional and presentational currency is GBP.

Transactions and balances

Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency using the spot exchange rates at the dates of the transactions.

At each period end foreign currency monetary items are translated using the closing rate. Non-monetary items measured at historical cost are translated using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction and non-monetary items measured at fair value are measured using the exchange rate when fair value was determined.

 
2.4

Revenue

Revenue is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Group and the revenue can be reliably measured. Revenue is measured as the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, excluding discounts, rebates, value added tax and other sales taxes. The following criteria must also be met before revenue is recognised:

Sale of goods

Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised when all of the following conditions are satisfied:
the Group has transferred the significant risks and rewards of ownership to the buyer;
the Group retains neither continuing managerial involvement to the degree usually associated with ownership nor effective control over the goods sold;
the amount of revenue can be measured reliably;
it is probable that the Group will receive the consideration due under the transaction; and
the costs incurred or to be incurred in respect of the transaction can be measured reliably.

Rendering of services

Revenue from a contract to provide services is recognised in the period in which the services are provided in accordance with the stage of completion of the contract when all of the following conditions are satisfied:
the amount of revenue can be measured reliably;
it is probable that the Group will receive the consideration due under the contract;
the stage of completion of the contract at the end of the reporting period can be measured reliably; and
the costs incurred and the costs to complete the contract can be measured reliably.

Page 32

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)


2.4
Revenue (continued)

Revenue comprising franchise fees and marketing contributions is based on a percentage of monthly franchisee sales.
In respect of sales of hearing aids, revenue is recognised at the point of fitting when the risks and rewards of ownership have been substantially transferred, unless the hearing aid is on a trial basis.

 
2.5

Operating leases: the Group as lessor

Rental income from operating leases is credited to profit or loss on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

 
2.6

Operating leases: the Group as lessee

Rentals paid under operating leases are charged to profit or loss on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

 
2.7

Leased assets: the Group as lessee

Assets obtained under hire purchase contracts and finance leases are capitalised as tangible fixed assets. Assets acquired by finance lease are depreciated over the shorter of the lease term and their useful lives. Assets acquired by hire purchase are depreciated over their useful lives. Finance leases are those where substantially all of the benefits and risks of ownership are assumed by the company. 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 charged to profit or loss so as to produce a constant periodic rate of charge on the net obligation outstanding in each period.

 
2.8

Finance costs

Finance costs are charged to profit or loss 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.

 
2.9

Pensions

Defined contribution pension plan

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

The contributions are recognised as an expense in profit or loss when they fall due. Amounts not paid are shown in accruals as a liability in the Statement of financial position. The assets of the plan are held separately from the Group in independently administered funds.

Defined benefit pension plan

The Group 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.

Page 33

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)


2.9
Pensions (continued)

The liability recognised in the Statement of financial position in respect of the defined benefit plan is the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the end of the reporting date less the fair value of plan assets at the reporting 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 Group'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 profit or loss 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 profit or loss as a 'finance expense'.

Page 34

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.10

Current and deferred taxation

The tax expense for the year comprises current and deferred tax. Tax is recognised in profit or loss 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 reporting date in the countries where the Company and the Group operate and generate income.

Deferred tax balances are recognised in respect of all timing differences that have originated but not reversed by the reporting 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;
Any deferred tax balances are reversed if and when all conditions for retaining associated tax allowances have been met; and
Where they relate to timing differences in respect of interests in subsidiaries, associates, branches and joint ventures and the Group can control the reversal of the timing differences and such reversal is not considered probable in the foreseeable future.

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 reporting date.


Page 35

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.11

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 the Group's share 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 Consolidated statement of comprehensive income over its useful economic life.

Other intangible assets

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.

 The estimated useful lives range as follows:

Branding
-
10 years straight line
Software development
-
5 years straight line
Goodwill
-
between 5 and 20 years straight line
Customer databases
-
10 years straight line

 
2.12

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.

At each reporting date the Group assesses whether there is any indication of impairment. If such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is determined which is the higher of its fair value less costs to sell and its value in use. An impairment loss is recognised where the carrying amount exceeds the recoverable amount.

The Group adds to the carrying amount of an item of fixed assets the cost of replacing part of such an item when that cost is incurred, if the replacement part is expected to provide incremental future benefits to the Group. The carrying amount of the replaced part is derecognised. Repairs and maintenance are charged to profit or loss during the period in which they are incurred.

Page 36

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)


2.12
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 property
-
not depreciated
Short-term leasehold property
-
over the remaining life of the lease
Fixtures, fittings and equipment
-
over 5 to 10 years
Testing equipment
-
5 years
Computer equipment
-
5 years

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 profit or loss.

 
2.13

Revaluation of tangible fixed assets

Individual freehold and leasehold properties are carried at current year value at fair value at the date of the revaluation less any subsequent accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses. Revaluations are undertaken with sufficient regularity to ensure the carrying amount does not differ materially from that which would be determined using fair value at the Statement of financial position date.
Fair values are determined from market based evidence by the directors or professional valuers.
Revaluation gains and losses are recognised in the Consolidated statement of comprehensive income unless losses exceed the previously recognised gains or reflect a clear consumption of economic benefits, in which case the excess losses are recognised in the profit or loss. 

 
2.14

Impairment of fixed assets and goodwill

Assets that are subject to depreciation or amortisation are assessed at each reporting date to determine whether there is any indication that the assets are impaired. Where there is any indication that an asset may be impaired, the carrying value of the asset (or cash-generating unit to which the asset has been allocated) is tested for impairment. An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset's carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset's (or CGU's) fair value less costs to sell and value in use. For the purposes of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable cash flows (CGUs). Non-financial assets that have been previously impaired are reviewed at each reporting date to assess whether there is any indication that the impairment losses recognised in prior periods may no longer exist or may have decreased.

Page 37

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.15

Investment property

Investment property is carried at fair value determined annually by the directors or professional valuers and derived from the current market rents and investment property yields for comparable real estate, adjusted if necessary for any difference in the nature, location or condition of the specific asset. No depreciation is provided. Changes in fair value are recognised in the Consolidated statement of comprehensive income. 

 
2.16

Valuation of investments

Investments in subsidiaries are measured at cost less accumulated impairment.

 
2.17

Associates and joint ventures

An entity is treated as a joint venture where the Group is a party to a contractual agreement with one or more parties from outside the Group to undertake an economic activity that is subject to joint control.

An entity is treated as an associated undertaking where the Group exercises significant influence in that it has the power to participate in the operating and financial policy decisions.
In the consolidated accounts, interests in associated undertakings are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Under this method an equity investment is initially recognised at the transaction price (including transaction costs) and is subsequently adjusted to reflect the investors share of the profit or loss, other comprehensive income and equity of the associate. The Consolidated statement of comprehensive income includes the Group's share of the operating results, interest, pre-tax results and attributable taxation of such undertakings applying accounting policies consistent with those of the Group. In the Consolidated statement of financial position, the interests in associated undertakings are shown as the Group's share of the identifiable net assets, including any unamortised premium paid on acquisition.
Any premium on acquisition is dealt with in accordance with the goodwill policy.

 
2.18

Stocks

Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value, being the estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell. Cost is based on the cost of purchase on a first in, first out basis.

At each reporting date, stocks are assessed for impairment. If stock is impaired, the carrying amount is reduced to its selling price less costs to complete and sell. The impairment loss is recognised immediately in profit or loss.

 
2.19

Debtors

Short term debtors are measured at transaction price, less any impairment.

Page 38

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.20

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash is represented by cash in hand and deposits with financial institutions repayable without penalty on notice of not more than 24 hours. 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.

In the Consolidated statement of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents are shown net of bank overdrafts that are repayable on demand and form an integral part of the Group's cash management.

 
2.21

Creditors

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

 
2.22

Financial instruments

The Group has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 “Basic Financial Instruments” of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.

Financial instruments are recognised in the Group's Statement of financial position when the Group becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

Basic financial assets

Basic financial assets, which include trade and other debtors, cash and bank balances, are initially measured at their transaction price (adjusted for transaction costs except in the initial measurement of financial assets that are subsequently measured at fair value through profit and loss) and are subsequently carried at their amortised cost using the effective interest method, less any provision for impairment, 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.

Discounting is omitted where the effect of discounting is immaterial. The Group's cash and cash equivalents, trade and most other debtors due with the operating cycle fall into this category of financial instruments.

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 the deduction of all its liabilities.

Basic financial liabilities, which include trade and other creditors, bank loans, other loans and loans due to fellow group companies are initially measured at their transaction price (adjusting for transaction costs except in the initial measurement of financial liabilities that are subsequently measured at fair value through profit and loss). When this constitutes a financing transaction, whereby the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest, discounting is omitted where the effect of discounting is immaterial.

Debt instruments are subsequently carried at their amortised cost using the effective interest rate method.
Page 39

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)


2.22
Financial instruments (continued)


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

 
2.23

Dividends

Equity dividends are recognised when they become legally payable. Interim equity dividends are recognised when paid. Final equity dividends are recognised when approved by the shareholders at an annual general meeting.

Page 40

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

3.


Judgments in applying accounting policies and key sources of estimation uncertainty

In the application of the accounting policies, management is required to make judgments, estimates and assumptions about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and underlying 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 if the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects both current and future periods.
The key sources of estimation uncertainty that may have a significant effect on the amounts recognised in the financial statements are;
• Useful economic lives of tangible and intangible assets
The annual depreciation and amortisation charge is sensitive to changes in the economic lives and residual values of the assets.
• Valuation of investment properties
Investment properties are stated at fair value based on valuations by the directors or professional valuers. However, the indicators and market prices used to ascertain fair value are sensitive to changes.
• Defined benefit pension scheme
The group 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, asset valuations and the discount rate on corporate bonds. Management engages professional services to assist in estimating these factors in determining the net present obligation in the balance sheet. The assumptions reflect historical experience and current trends, but are sensitive to changes.
• Income and cost recognition
The group applies judgement in the timing of recognition of income and costs in connection with hearing aids sold and the level of returns expected. The group applies judgement in the timing of recognising marketing income contributions and identifying related costs for recognition.
• Lease determination
The group considers the attributes of lease agreements to determine whether these are operating leases or finance leases.


4.


Turnover

As restated
2024
2023
£
£

Services and products
57,812,461
52,048,352


All turnover arose within the United Kingdom.

Page 41

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

5.


Other operating income

As restated
2024
2023
£
£

Recharged costs and management charges
40,000
180,445

Net rents receivable
232,986
187,970

Commissions receivable
91,001
83,021

363,987
451,436



6.


Operating profit

The operating profit is stated after charging:

2024
2023
£
£

Depreciation of tangible fixed assets
1,062,865
1,005,608

Amortisation of intangible assets, including goodwill
343,091
287,757

Exchange differences
1,143
3,672

Other operating lease rentals
2,525,472
2,516,664

Defined contribution pension cost
747,919
704,482

Defined benefit pension cost
55,000
71,187


7.


Auditor's remuneration

2024
2023
£
£

Fees payable to the Group's auditor and its associates for the audit of the Group's financial statements
60,419
57,340

Fees payable to the Company's auditor and its associates in respect of:

Taxation compliance services
10,553
10,050

All non-audit services not included above
14,446
13,758

Page 42

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

8.


Employees

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


Group
As restated
Group
Company
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£
£
£
£


Wages and salaries
19,913,428
17,875,671
591,976
566,420

Social security costs
2,393,591
2,149,634
83,441
71,067

Other pension costs
802,919
758,482
11,038
5,696

23,109,938
20,783,787
686,455
643,183


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



Group
Group
Company
Company
        2024
        2023
        2024
        2023
            No.
            No.
            No.
            No.









Branch sales
378
344
-
-



Office administration
81
74
4
4

459
418
4
4


9.


Directors' remuneration

2024
2023
£
£

Directors' emoluments
838,309
790,945

Group contributions to defined contribution pension schemes
20,938
14,196

859,247
805,141


During the year retirement benefits were accruing to 3 directors (2023 - 2) in respect of defined contribution pension schemes.

The highest paid director received remuneration of £467,841 (2023 - £411,733).

The value of the Group's contributions paid to a defined contribution pension scheme in respect of the highest paid director amounted to £9,988 (2023 - £4,996).

Page 43

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

10.


Interest receivable

2024
2023
£
£


Other interest receivable
70,567
25,567


11.


Interest payable and similar expenses

2024
2023
£
£


Bank interest payable
2,847
20,909

Other loan interest payable
579
-

Share of joint ventures
201
847

Other interest payable
2,847
308

6,474
22,064


12.


Other finance costs

2024
2023
£
£

Net interest on net defined benefit liability
30,000
131,000


Page 44

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

13.


Taxation


2024
2023
£
£

Corporation tax


Current tax on profits for the year
576,814
742,133

Adjustments in respect of previous periods
(5,197)
(5)


571,617
742,128


Share of joint ventures' current tax
-
12,001


Total current tax
571,617
754,129

Deferred tax


Origination and reversal of timing differences
403,215
(139,657)

Changes to tax rates
-
(19,750)

Total deferred tax
403,215
(159,407)


Tax on profit
974,832
594,722
Page 45

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
 
13.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:

As restated
2024
2023
£
£


Profit on ordinary activities before tax
2,976,488
2,604,076


Profit on ordinary activities multiplied by standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 25% (2023 - 25%)
744,122
651,019

Effects of:


Non-tax deductible amortisation of goodwill and impairment
78,346
77,680

Expenses not deductible for tax purposes, other than goodwill amortisation and impairment
41,380
28,579

Capital allowances for year in excess of depreciation
12,998
81,383

Adjustments to tax charge in respect of prior periods
(1,834)
-

Other timing differences leading to an increase (decrease) in taxation
91,312
(1,320)

Gain on disposal of investments
(62,475)
-

Changes in provisions leading to an increase (decrease) in the tax charge
(4,631)
-

Dividends from UK companies
(12,750)
-

Other differences leading to an increase (decrease) in the tax charge
-
3,548

Group relief
62,008
-

Marginal relief
(296)
(909)

Pension accrual in excess of pension payments
(376,563)
(85,850)

Deferred tax movement
403,215
(159,408)

Total tax charge for the year
974,832
594,722


Factors that may affect future tax charges

There were no factors that may affect future tax charges.

Page 46

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

14.


Dividends

2024
2023
£
£


Dividends
12,000
-

12,000
-


15.


Parent company profit for the year

The Company has taken advantage of the exemption allowed under section 408 of the Companies Act 2006 and has not presented its own Statement of comprehensive income in these financial statements. The loss after tax of the parent Company for the year was £61,095 (2023 - profit £12,472).

Page 47

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

16.


Intangible assets

Group 





Branding
Software development
Goodwill
Customer databases
Total

£
£
£
£
£



Cost


At 1 January 2024
(as restated)
16,954
-
4,494,689
15,000
4,526,643


Additions
-
28,000
315,133
-
343,133


On acquisition of subsidiaries
-
-
848,422
-
848,422



At 31 December 2024

16,954
28,000
5,658,244
15,000
5,718,198



Amortisation


At 1 January 2024
(as restated)
16,954
-
3,164,189
1,500
3,182,643


Charge for the year on owned assets
-
2,800
338,791
1,500
343,091



At 31 December 2024

16,954
2,800
3,502,980
3,000
3,525,734



Net book value



At 31 December 2024
-
25,200
2,155,264
12,000
2,192,464



At 31 December 2023 
(as restated)
-
-
1,330,500
13,500
1,344,000



The Company has no intangible assets.

Page 48

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

17.


Tangible fixed assets

Group






Freehold property
Short-term leasehold property
Fixtures, fittings & equipment
Testing equipment
Computer equipment

£
£
£
£
£



Cost or valuation


At 1 January 2024
103,000
434,545
7,173,878
1,572,278
187,058


Additions
-
-
642,874
439,446
45,813


Acquisition of subsidiary
-
38,052
84,232
-
1,903


Disposals
-
(400,472)
(510,798)
(4,786)
(769)



At 31 December 2024

103,000
72,125
7,390,186
2,006,938
234,005



Depreciation


At 1 January 2024
-
412,415
4,260,140
867,322
111,444


Charge for the year on owned assets
-
7,421
718,215
299,193
38,036


Disposals
-
(400,472)
(425,904)
(4,786)
(222)



At 31 December 2024

-
19,364
4,552,451
1,161,729
149,258



Net book value



At 31 December 2024
103,000
52,761
2,837,735
845,209
84,747



At 31 December 2023
103,000
22,130
2,913,738
704,956
75,614
Page 49

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

           17.Tangible fixed assets (continued)


Total

£



Cost or valuation


At 1 January 2024
9,470,759


Additions
1,128,133


Acquisition of subsidiary
124,187


Disposals
(916,825)



At 31 December 2024

9,806,254



Depreciation


At 1 January 2024
5,651,321


Charge for the year on owned assets
1,062,865


Disposals
(831,384)



At 31 December 2024

5,882,802



Net book value



At 31 December 2024
3,923,452



At 31 December 2023
3,819,438




The net book value of land and buildings may be further analysed as follows:


2024
2023
£
£

Freehold
103,000
103,000

Short leasehold
52,761
22,131

155,761
125,131


Page 50

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

           17.Tangible fixed assets (continued)




The net book value of assets held under finance leases or hire purchase contracts, included above, are as follows:


2024
2023
£
£



Furniture, fittings and equipment
11,723
-

11,723
-

Cost or valuation at 31 December 2024 is as follows:

Land and buildings
£


At cost
79,425
At valuation:

Valued by the directors on an open market value basis
95,700



175,125

If the land and buildings had not been included at valuation they would have been included under the historical cost convention as follows:

2024
2023
£
£

Group


Cost
79,425
441,846

Accumulated depreciation
(25,471)
(415,334)

Net book value
53,954
26,512

Page 51

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

           17.Tangible fixed assets (continued)


Company






Fixtures and fittings

£

Cost or valuation


At 1 January 2024
11,496


Disposals
(3,638)



At 31 December 2024

7,858



Depreciation


At 1 January 2024
7,242


Charge for the year on owned assets
1,270


Disposals
(3,638)



At 31 December 2024

4,874



Net book value



At 31 December 2024
2,984



At 31 December 2023
4,254








Page 52

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

18.


Fixed asset investments

Group





Investment in joint ventures

£





At 1 January 2024
145,155


On acquisition of subsidiaries
(125,775)


Share of profit/(loss)
(19,380)



At 31 December 2024
-




Company





Investments in subsidiary companies

£



Cost or valuation


At 1 January 2024
77,714



At 31 December 2024
77,714





Direct subsidiary undertakings


The following were direct subsidiary undertakings of the Company:

Name

Nature of business

Class of shares

Holding

Leightons Limited
Optician
Ordinary
100%
Leightons Hearingcare Limited
Seller and fitter of hearing aids
Ordinary
100%
Leightons Franchises Limited
Optical franchiser
Ordinary
100%
Leightons Opticians Limited
Dormant
Ordinary
99.8%

Page 53

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Indirect subsidiary undertakings


The following were indirect subsidiary undertakings of the Company:

Name

Nature of business

Class of shares

Holding

The Hearing Care Partnership Limited
Seller and fitter of hearing aids
Ordinary
100%
DJ Bull Optometrists Limited
Dormant
Ordinary
100%
Leightons Clapham Limited
Optician
Ordinary
51%
Leightons Insight Limited
Optician
Ordinary
100%
Wilton Optical Limited
Optician
Ordinary
100%
Praills Limited
Optician
Ordinary
100%
Mamdani Opticians Limited
Optician
Ordinary
51%

Leightons Insight Limited, the joint venture, became a 100% subsidiary of Leightons Limited during the year.
Spectrum Eye Care Limited and Leightons Eye Winds Limited were disslolved during the year.
Due to the issue of additional shares in the year, the holding in Leightons Clapham Limited reduced to 51%.
100% of Wilton Optical Limited, 100% of Praills Limited and 51% of Mamdani Opticians Limited were acquired during the year.
Praills Limited has a non-coterminous reporting date and the figures included within the consolidated financial statements have been based on management figures.
The registered office address of all subsidiaries is Clarendon House, 63 Downing Street, Farnham, Surrey, GU9 7PN.
Leightons Franchises Limited, Leightons Insight Limited, Wilton Optical Limited, Praills Limited and Mamdani Opticians Limited are entitled to exemption from the requirement to have an audit under the provisions of section 479A of the Companies Act 2006 and have taken advantage of this exemption.
All subsidiary companies are included in the consolidated figures.

Page 54

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

19.


Investment property

Group


Freehold investment property

£



Valuation


At 1 January 2024
535,000


Surplus on revaluation
15,000



At 31 December 2024
550,000


Comprising


Cost
7,301

Annual revaluation surplus/(deficit):


Up to 2021
448,699

2022
79,000

2024
15,000

At 31 December 2024
550,000

The 2024 valuations were made by the directors, on an open market value for existing use basis.

2024
2023
£
£

Revaluation reserves


At 1 January 2024
527,699
527,699

Gain on revaluation of investment property
15,000
-

At 31 December 2024
542,699
527,699

Page 55

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
 
19.Investment property (continued)



If the Investment properties had been accounted for under the historic cost accounting rules, the properties would have been measured as follows:

2024
2023
£
£


Historic cost
7,301
7,301

Company





Freehold investment property

£



Valuation


At 1 January 2024
638,000


Surplus on revaluation
15,000



At 31 December 2024
653,000

The 2024 valuations were made by the directors, on an open market value for existing use basis.

2024
2023
£
£

Revaluation reserves


At 1 January 2024
623,398
623,398

Net gain in movement properties
15,000
-

At 31 December 2024
638,398
623,398


20.


Stocks

Group
Group
2024
2023
£
£

Stocks and accessories
1,775,988
1,670,314

Finished goods and goods for resale
132,824
25,570

1,908,812
1,695,884


The difference between purchase price or production cost of stocks and their replacement cost is not material.

Page 56

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

21.


Debtors

Group
Group
Company
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£
£
£
£

Due after more than one year

Other debtors
18,010
17,773
-
-

18,010
17,773
-
-


Group

Group
As restated
Company

Company
As restated
2024
2023
2024
2023
£
£
£
£

Due within one year

Trade debtors
4,974,184
3,779,494
-
-

Amounts owed by group undertakings
-
-
6,232,845
4,155,691

Amounts owed by joint ventures and associated undertakings
-
23,495
-
-

Other debtors
1,834,209
1,455,483
6,376
-

Prepayments and accrued income
857,764
777,754
28,949
25,735

Tax recoverable
9,448
-
-
-

7,675,605
6,036,226
6,268,170
4,181,426



22.


Cash and cash equivalents

Group
Group
Company
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£
£
£
£

Cash at bank and in hand
6,056,772
7,692,457
1,789,048
2,002,690

6,056,772
7,692,457
1,789,048
2,002,690


Page 57

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

23.


Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year

Group

Group
As restated
Company

Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£
£
£
£

Bank loans
37,206
-
-
-

Trade creditors
2,479,938
1,886,631
7,368
3,630

Amounts owed to group undertakings
-
-
7,745,645
5,855,984

Corporation tax
598,074
358,319
-
1,284

Other taxation and social security
1,263,606
856,020
21,995
22,102

Obligations under finance lease and hire purchase contracts
20,368
-
-
-

Other creditors
1,185,442
530,223
36,448
35,813

Accruals and deferred income
2,730,477
1,869,043
144,143
130,330

8,315,111
5,500,236
7,955,599
6,049,143



24.


Creditors: Amounts falling due after more than one year

Group
Group
2024
2023
£
£

Bank loans
14,759
-

Net obligations under finance leases and hire purchase contracts
30,555
-

Other creditors
216,864
17,774

262,178
17,774




Page 58

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

25.


Loans


Analysis of the maturity of loans is given below:


Group
Group
2024
2023
£
£

Amounts falling due within one year

Bank loans
37,206
-

Amounts falling due 1-2 years

Bank loans
14,759
-


51,965
-


The Group has an interest free buy back loan which was repaid in March 2025 and an unsecured bank term loan repayable in July 2026.


26.


Hire purchase and finance leases


Minimum lease payments under hire purchase fall due as follows:

Group
Group
2024
2023
£
£

Within one year
10,335
-

Between 1-5 years
11,176
-

Over 5 years
19,379
-

40,890
-

Page 59

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

27.


Financial instruments

Group
Group
Company
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£
£
£
£

Financial assets

Financial assets measured at fair value through profit or loss
12,475,108
13,809,560
8,028,267
6,184,116


Financial liabilities

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost
(5,834,998)
(5,248,505)
(7,913,531)
(6,049,143)


Financial assets that are debt instruments measured at amortised cost comprise cash at bank, trade debtors, amounts owed by group and joint ventures and other debtors.


Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost comprise trade creditors, amounts owed to group, other creditors, hire purchase, bank loans and other loans.

Page 60

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

28.


Deferred taxation


Group



2024


£






At beginning of year
(124,956)


Charged to profit or loss
(403,216)


Charged to other comprehensive income
391,000


Arising on business combinations
(8,487)



At end of year
(145,659)

Company


2024


£






At beginning of year
(73,057)


Charged to profit or loss
(26,471)



At end of year
(99,528)

Group
Group
Company
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£
£
£
£

Accelerated capital allowances
(793,415)
(789,896)
859
535

Pension surplus
739,688
725,250
-
-

Tax on revalued properties
(100,582)
(73,592)
(100,582)
(73,592)

Short term timing differences
8,651
13,282
195
-

(145,658)
(124,956)
(99,528)
(73,057)

Page 61

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

29.


Share capital

2024
2023
£
£
Allotted, called up and fully paid



500,000 (2023 - 500,000) Ordinary shares of £1.00 each
500,000
500,000
1,582,302 (2023 - 1,582,302) A Ordinary shares of £0.01 each
15,823
15,823

515,823

515,823



30.


Reserves

Share premium account

The share premium account represents the amount paid in excess of the nominal value for equity share capital.

Revaluation reserve

The revaluation reserve represents cumulative gains and losses on revaluations of the freehold properties.

Capital redemption reserve

The capital redemption reserve represents the nominal value of equity share capital that has been repurchased by the company.

Investment property revaluation reserve

The investment property revaluation reserve represents cumulative gains and losses on revaluations of the investment properties.

Profit and loss account

The profit and loss account represents cumulative profits and losses net of other adjustments.

Page 62

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

31.
 

Business combinations



Acquisition of Leightons Clapham Limited, Leightons Insight Limited, Wilton Optical Limited, Mamdani Opticians Limited & Praills Limited

The group owned 100% of the share capital of Leightons Clapham Limited, a dormant company, to the date of 10th January 2024. On the 10th January 2024 Leightons Clapham Limited issued an additional 99 shares, of which the group purchased 50 additional shares. This was acquired under the acquisition method.
From the date of 10th January 2024, the group has held 51 shares in Leightons Clapham Limited, retaining 51% of the share capital and control. 
Leightons Clapham Limited began trading from 10th January 2024.
The group owned 50% of Leightons Insight Limited, the joint venture, up to the date of 8th May 2024. On the 8th May 2024, the group purchased the remaining 50% share capital of Leightons Insight Limited.
From the 8th May 2024 the group has owned 100% of the share capital of Leightons Insight Limited. This was acquired under the acquisition method.
On 30th June 2024 the group acquired 100% of the share capital of Wilton Optical Limited. This was acquired under the acquisition method.
On 30th September 2024 the group acquired 100% of the share capital of Praills Limited. This was acquired under the acquisition method.
On 21 November 2024 the company ceased to trade and the trade and assets of Praills Limited were hived up into Wilton Optical Limited.
On 30th October 2024 the group acquired 51% of the share capital of Mamdani Opticians Limited. This was acquired under the acquisition method.
The information presented below has been combined for acquisitions that are individually not material.


Book value
Fair value
£
£

Fixed Assets

Tangible
133,286
133,286

Intangible
56,000
56,000

189,286
189,286

Current Assets

Stocks
172,350
172,350

Debtors
324,252
324,252

Cash at bank and in hand
529,887
529,887

Total Assets
1,215,775
1,215,775
Page 63

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

31.Business combinations (continued)


Creditors

Due within one year
(409,235)
(409,235)

Due after more than one year
(69,574)
(69,574)

Deferred taxation
(8,487)
(8,487)

Total capital and reserves
728,479
728,479


Non-controlling interests
(154,221)

Goodwill
848,425

Total purchase consideration
1,422,683

Consideration

£


Cash
808,675

Deferred consideration
537,574

Directly attributable costs
76,434

Total purchase consideration
1,422,683

Cash outflow on acquisition

£


Purchase consideration settled in cash, as above
885,109

885,109

Less: Cash and cash equivalents acquired
(529,887)

Net cash outflow on acquisition
355,222

Page 64

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

31.Business combinations (continued)

The goodwill arising on acquisition is attributable to the excess paid above the value of the net assets.

The results of Leightons Clapham Limited, Leightons Insight Limited, Wilton Optical Limited, Mamdani Opticians Limited & Praills Limited since acquisition are as follows:

Current period since acquisition
£

Turnover
2,096,364

Profit for the period since acquisition
236,388




32.


Capital commitments




At 31 December 2024 the Group and Company had capital commitments as follows:


Group
Group
2024
2023
£
£

Contracted for but not provided in these financial statements
-
36,334

-
36,334

Page 65

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

33.


Pension commitments

The group operates a defined contributions pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the group in an independently administered fund. The pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the group to the fund and amounted to £747,919 (2023 - £704,482). Contributions totalling £65,127 (2023 - £101,788) were payable to the fund at the reporting date and are included in creditors.

The Group operates a Defined benefit pension scheme.

Formal funding calculations as at 31 December 2024 have been used in the completion of these disclosures.



Reconciliation of present value of plan liabilities:


2024
2023
£
£

Reconciliation of present value of plan liabilities


At the beginning of the year
19,583,000
18,363,000

Current service cost
55,000
54,000

Interest cost
867,000
867,000

Actuarial gains/losses
(2,388,000)
740,000

Benefits paid
(768,000)
(441,000)

Derecognition of surplus
1,510,000
-

At the end of the year
18,859,000
19,583,000

Page 66

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
 
33.Pension commitments (continued)


Reconciliation of present value of plan assets:


2024
2023
£
£


At the beginning of the year
16,682,000
15,383,000

Interest income
837,000
736,000

Actuarial gains/losses
(2,442,000)
454,000

Contributions
4,605,000
604,000

Benefits paid
(768,000)
(441,000)

Administration cost
(55,000)
(54,000)

At the end of the year
18,859,000
16,682,000


Composition of plan assets:


2024
2023
£
£


Equities
18,785,599
16,608,599

Cash
73,401
73,401

Total plan assets
18,859,000
16,682,000

The actual return on scheme assets was £2,442,000 loss (2023: £454,000 gain).

2024
2023
£
£


Fair value of plan assets
18,859,000
16,682,000

Present value of plan liabilities
(18,859,000)
(19,583,000)

Net pension scheme liability
-
(2,901,000)


The amounts recognised in profit or loss are as follows:

2024
2023
£
£


Current service cost
(55,000)
(54,000)

Interest on obligation
(30,000)
(131,000)

Total
(85,000)
(185,000)


Page 67

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
 
33.Pension commitments (continued)


The cumulative amount of actuarial gains and losses recognised in the Consolidated statement of comprehensive income was a loss of  £6,489,575 (2023 - £6,435,575 loss)



The Group expects to contribute £nil to its Defined benefit pension scheme in 2025.





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

2024
2023
%
%
Discount rate


5.4

4.51
 
Inflation assumption (CPI)


2.65

2.61
 
Inflation assumption (RPI)


3.1

3.06
 

Mortality rates have been based on 100% S4PMA CMI 2023 for males and 100% S4PFA CMI 2023 for females for 2024 and 100% S3PMA CMI 2022 for males and 100% S3PFA CMI 2022 for females for 2023.



Amounts for the current and previous four periods are as follows:


Defined benefit pension schemes

2024
2023
2022
2021
2020
£
£
£
£
£
Defined benefit obligation

(17,349,000)

(19,583,000)

(18,363,000)
 
(29,195,000)
 
(29,522,000)

Scheme assets

18,859,000

16,682,000

15,383,000
 
24,507,000
 
22,492,000

Deficit
1,510,000

(2,901,000)

(2,980,000)
 
(4,688,000)
 
(7,030,000)


Experience adjustments on scheme liabilities
2,388,000
(740,000)
10,912,000
413,000
(5,752,000)
Experience adjustments on scheme assets
(3,952,000)
454,000
(9,618,000)
1,617,000
2,065,000
(1,564,000)
(286,000)
1,294,000
2,030,000
(3,687,000)


Page 68

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

34.


Commitments under operating leases

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


Group
Group
Company
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£
£
£
£

Land & Buildings

Not later than 1 year
1,466,565
1,317,574
1,361,065
1,291,074

Later than 1 year and not later than 5 years
3,884,793
3,853,571
3,459,980
3,796,071

Later than 5 years
979,788
1,060,305
734,183
1,060,305

6,331,146
6,231,450
5,555,228
6,147,450

The land and buildings operating leases held in the name of Leightons Holdings Limited are met by Leightons Limited or other group companies.

Group
Group
Company
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£
£
£
£

Other

Not later than 1 year
636,820
737,318
6,762
19,560

Later than 1 year and not later than 5 years
176,113
617,081
-
8,392

812,933
1,354,399
6,762
27,952

Page 69

 
LEIGHTONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

35.


Prior year adjustment

In the prior year, there were additions of £15,000 for customer databases. These had not been accurately disclosed within the intangible fixed assets note at prior year end. This has now been disclosed separately from goodwill, along with the prior year depreciation charge of £1,500.
In the prior year, £128,345 of accruals and deferred income had been incorrectly disclosed as other creditors, within the creditors due within one year note. The £128,345 has been reclassified to correctly include this amount within accruals and deferred income in the comparative figures.
In the prior year, there were £60,451 franchise fees included within other operating income. These had not been accurately disclosed within the consolidated statement of comprehensive income and notes to the accounts at prior year end. This income has now been disclosed within turnover.
In the prior year, £551,375 of supplier rebates had been incorrectly disclosed as other income and £149,182 as distribution costs. Both amounts have been reclassified to correctly include the total supplier rebates of £700,557 within purchases in cost of sales within the comparative figures.
In the prior year, there were £427,450 staff costs included within distribution costs. These had not been
accurately disclosed within the consolidated statement of comprehensive income at prior year end. These costs have now been disclosed within administrative expenses.
In the prior year, there were £106,325 promotional costs included within administrative expenses. These
had not been accurately disclosed within the consolidated statement of comprehensive income at prior year end. These costs have now been disclosed within distribution costs.
Prior year liabilities have been identified which reduce retained profits carried forward at 31 December 2022 by £194,892, increase purchases in 2023 by £141,194 and reduce the bad debt expense in 2023 by £3,478. Retained profits carried forward at 31 December 2023 reduce by £332,608.
The result of these adjustments has reduced the net profit by £137,716 as at 31st December 2023, compared to what had previously been reported.


36.


Related party transactions

During the year, the company paid rent of £76,685 (2023 - £73,250) to Leightons Pension Fund (1988)a scheme in which the directors, R J Leighton and R P Leighton, are beneficiaries
During the year, the group paid £3,121 (2023 - £10,331) for the pension protection fund levy on behalf of Leightons Group Pension Fund, the defined benefit pension scheme.
During the year the group undertook transactions with Leightons Insight Limited, a joint venture of Leightons Limited until the 8 May 2024. As of the 8 May 2024, Leightons Insight Limited became a direct subsidiary of Leightons Limited. Prior to the acquisition of Leightons Insight Limited as a direct subsidiary, Leightons Limited charged management charges of £40,000 (2023 - £120,000) and other costs of £22,815 (2023 - £145,981) to Leightons Insight Limited and received dividends of £12,000 (2023 - £36,000) from Leightons Insight Limited. Leightons HearingCare Limited was charged commission of £10,871 (2023 - £29,972) by Leightons Insight Limited.
Key management personnel are considered to be parent company and Leightons Limited directors. The total remuneration during the year to key management personnel was £1,292,380 (2023 - £1,267,261).

 
Page 70