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Registered number: 00124503










BENNETT OPIE LIMITED










ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
COMPANY INFORMATION


Directors
Mr P G Opie BSc (President) 
Mr W J Opie (Chairman) 
Mr C I W Opie (Managing Director) 
Rev D I B Opie BA 
Mrs J M Wittams 
Mr M G W Stringer 
Mr P A Fox BSc (Hons) 
Mr M J Godley 
Mr W J Davies 
Mr L Gordon ACMA, BA (Hons) 




Company secretary
Mr L Gordon



Registered number
00124503



Registered office
Chalkwell Road

Sittingbourne

Kent

ME10 2LE




Independent auditor
MHA

Lyndean House

30-32 Albion Place

Maidstone

Kent

ME14 5DZ




Bankers
Barclays Bank plc
1 Churchill Place

London

E14 5HP




Solicitors
Cripps LLP
Mount Ephraim

Tunbridge Wells

Kent

TN4 8AS





 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 

CONTENTS



Page
Strategic Report
 
 
1 - 3
Directors' Report
 
 
4 - 7
Independent Auditor's Report
 
 
8 - 11
Statement of Comprehensive Income
 
 
12
Balance Sheet
 
 
13
Statement of Changes in Equity
 
 
14
Statement of Cash Flows
 
 
15 - 16
Analysis of Net Debt
 
 
17
Notes to the Financial Statements
 
 
18 - 38


 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
STRATEGIC REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Introduction
 
The Directors present their strategic report for the period ended 31st March 2025. 
Principal activities
The Company's principal activities during the period continued to be the manufacture, import, marketing and distribution of premium ambient food and beverage products. 

Business review and likely future developments
 
The Directors consider the trading results to be consistently strong for the period, with turnover exceeding £52 million. Therefore, the Company grew at 4.5% for the year following the previous year’s 13% growth. 
Inflationary pressures remain across nearly all areas of the business as well as for our customers and consumers. Measures taken by the Board and wider team, together with careful management of overhead costs, have resulted in margins being maintained broadly in line with the previous year.
The well reported cost of living pressures, generally challenging economic climate and the ongoing conflicts overseas all have the potential to impact future trading results. Undoubtedly, the political decisions made that have increased costs both for the Company as an employer as well as a manufacturer and importer of packaged consumer goods will be felt. This will inevitably add to inflationary pressures for our customers and consumers as well as this organisation.
The Directors continue to see opportunities for growth within both our manufacturing and our import and distribution business. The Company is an attractive partner for brand owners seeking to benefit from our wide-ranging and well developed customer relationships across the breadth of the food and beverage market and these opportunities will continue to be given due consideration as they occur.

Page 1

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 

STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Principal risks and uncertainties
 
The Board has identified several key risks and continues to monitor and manage these on an ongoing basis:
 
Foreign exchange – the Company imports a large proportion of its materials and product range in both Euro and US Dollar currencies. Variations in foreign exchange rates will inevitably impact the Company’s profitability. Currency purchases are therefore managed through the use of forward hedging options, as well as purchasing on the spot market. 
Economic environment – the Company operates in a dynamic environment where factors such as rising inflation, consumer confidence and customer consolidation can impact performance alongside the policy choices made by the Government at the time.
Competition – the Company operates in a highly competitive market and the Directors are aware of the continued need to offer a commercially attractive package together with the highest level of quality and customer service. 
Customers and Suppliers – The importance of establishing and retaining key stakeholder relationships is recognised through dedicated sales and purchasing teams conducting continual and regular reviews and audits to ensure competitiveness and quality.
Climate change – in recent years the impact of extraordinary weather events upon the availability and cost of materials has been increasing. Risk is managed through sourcing key raw materials in more than one region, however, in some instances this is not possible with resulting risks to continuity of supply.
Geopolitical consequences – the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the risk factor posed by tariffs, challenges to the safe passage of sea freight in certain regions and other similar geopolitical events can raise risk levels for the business given the international nature of both its and its supplier’s sourcing as well as that of its suppliers.  The uncertain nature of this event and risks associated with it will continue to be monitored closely and on an ongoing basis.

Financial key performance indicators
 
The Directors monitor a number of key performance indicators to ensure the business continues to create value for its shareholders and stability of employment for its employees.
 
£'000's
2025
2024
2023
2022
2021
Turnover
52,678
50,420
44,509
43,784
31,617
Gross Margin
24%
22%
22%
26%
26%
Profit Before Tax
5.1%
5.5%
3.9%
8.6%
8.1%

Non-financial key performance indicators
 
The Directors are regularly provided with a variety of measures as an aid to review the business operations. These include measuring departmental headcount and in conjunction with providing improved staff benefits and conducting staff surveys, the aim is to improve staff retention levels. Other key measures include regular review of debtor and creditor days to ensure a smooth and consistent approach within our accounts function. Operational measures include OEE and picking rates which help when managing and seeking to improve both machine and staff efficiency.

Page 2

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 

STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Directors' statement of compliance with duty to promote the success of the Company
 
The Directors are aware of their duty under s.172 of the Companies Act 2006 to act in a way that they consider, in good faith, would be most likely to promote the success of the Company for the benefit of its shareholders as a whole, and in doing so have regard (amongst other matters) to:
 the likely consequences of any decision in the long term,
 the interest of employees,
 the need to foster business relationships with suppliers, customers and others,
 the impact of operations on the community and the environment,
 the desirability of the Group to maintain a reputation for high standards of business conduct, and
 the need to act fairly as between members of the Group.
The Directors have had regard to the matters set out in s172(1)(a)-(f) when performing their duty under s172, as follows: 
Decision making
Decisions made by the board take into account the interest of the stakeholders and reflect the boards belief that the long term sustainable success of the group is linked to its key stakeholders.
Business relationships with customers 
The Directors continue to build and foster good relationships with their customers and continue to strengthen their account management team. 
Business relationships with suppliers
Good supplier relationships are also a key consideration, where there is proactive communication to resolve all issues in a timely manner.
Environmental and community impact of operation
The Directors actively consider the impact of business operations within the local community by seeking to recruit a local workforce and consulting with local authorities to respect community concerns with new building projects, while striving to keep noise and disruption to a minimum.
Maintaining a reputation for high standards of business conduct
The business is governed by several regulatory bodies and the Directors continually strive to obtain the highest ratings, by strict compliance to their findings and audit recommendations.


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



Mr C I W Opie 
Managing Director

Date: 30 October 2025

Page 3

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

The Directors present their report and the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025.

Directors' responsibilities statement

The Directors are responsible for preparing the Strategic Report, the Directors' Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations.
 
Company law requires the Directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under that law the directors have elected to prepare the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice), including Financial Reporting Standard 102 ‘The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland'. Under company law the directors must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Company and of the profit or loss of the Company for that period.

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


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

make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent;

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

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

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

Results and dividends

The profit for the year, after taxation, amounted to £2,424,283 (2024 - £2,313,710).

Dividends of £416,000 (2024 - £528,000) were paid during the period. These were paid to the parent company Bennett Opie Holdings Limited.

Directors

The Directors who served during the year were:

Mr P G Opie BSc (President) 
Mr W J Opie (Chairman) 
Mr C I W Opie (Managing Director) 
Rev D I B Opie BA 
Mrs J M Wittams 
Mr M G W Stringer 
Mr P A Fox BSc (Hons) 
Mr M J Godley 
Mr W J Davies 
Mr L Gordon ACMA, BA (Hons) 

Page 4

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Future developments

The Board are extremely pleased with the results for the period. The Directors' policy is one of continued investment in our key brands leading to continued growth of the business. We also look at expanding into new market sectors where appropriate to broaden the base of the Company.

Streamlined Energy & Carbon Reporting

Review
An environmental committee exists within the business to review our current energy usage, set out our aspirations & meet regularly to discuss performance levels & appropriate courses of action.
A suitable overall metric has been established, which allows our stakeholders to review at a glance our performance in this area. Due to the increased growth levels achieved by the business over recent years, it was decided CO2 per £000 sales turnover to be the most relevant measure.

Carbon Usage Efficiency
 
CO2 per £million Sales Turnover
Base Year 2023/24
Current Year 2024/25
Better/(Worse)
Scope 1: Emissions - Gas
17.77
16.04
1.73
10%
Scope 2: Emissions - Electrics
4.96
4.53
0.43
9%
Scope 3: Emissions - Fuel
0.68
0.48
0.21
30%
TOTAL
23.41
21.04
2.37
10%

Methodology
In order to determine the energy usage levels over the period of assessment, data was obtained directly from our energy suppliers invoices, whereas third party broker readings were previously used. Together with the increase in use of smart meters, accuracy levels of (KWH) energy used has increased & allowed both current year & base year readings to be determined internally.
Energy levels were subsequently converted into CO2 levels using standard conversion tables from https://www.gov.uk/government /publications /greenhouse-gas-reporting -conversion -factors-2024 This defined 1KWH as equivalent to 0.20705kg of CO2 for electricity & 0.18290kg of CO2 for gas. Petrol & Diesel defined each litre of fuel as equivalent to 2.08440kg of CO2.
Streamlined Energy & Carbon Reporting (SECR) was initially reported on within our business during 2021/22. However, following a review it was considered more appropriate to revise the baseline period to 2023/24, to provide a more relevant comparison of production & operations.
 
Page 5

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Further Reporting
Additional information relating to the metrics used, which express energy usage in terms of KWH are reported below and show the actual and relative levels of energy used within the business.
 
SECR Data
Energy Cosumed KWH
Energy Consumed Litres
Conversion Rate *
CO2 Levels Tonnes
CO2 Tonnes per £M Turnover
2024/25





Scope 1: Gas





Manufacturing
4,421,716
-
0.18290
809
15.35
Other
196,840
-
0.18290
36
0.68
Scope 2: Electric





Manufacturing
908,925
-
0.20705
188
3.57
Other
244,448
-
0.20705
51
0.96
Scope 3: Petrol/Diesel
113,782
12,016
2.08440
25
0.48
Total: Current Year
5,885,711
12,016

1,109
21.04
2023/24





Scope 1: Gas





Manufacturing
4,776,225
-
0.18290
874
17.33
Other
121,979
-
0.18290
22
0.44
Scope 2: Electric





Manufacturing
985,225
-
0.20705
204
4.05
Other
222,851
-
0.20705
46
0.92
Scope 3: Petrol/Diesel
156,132
16,489
2.08440
34
0.68
Total: Base Year - as restated
6,262,412
16,489

1,180
23.41

*source:https://www.gov.uk/government /publications /greenhouse-gas-reporting -conversion -factors-2024
S172 Report: Bennett Opie’s Streamline Energy & Carbon Reporting for 2024/25
CO2 output relative to our sales turnover is now 10% below our base year, despite our growth in sales turnover.
The ambitions for the business in terms of our carbon emissions are to reduce our scope 1 & 2 levels by a further 10% over the next 3 years, relative to the size of our business.
It is the intention of the environmental committee to explore all the ways in which carbon emissions can be reduced. Previously, all lighting throughout the business was changed to lower energy usage light bulbs & company vehicle policy favoured a move from petrol & diesel cars to electric cars. Smart meters were also installed where possible to help monitor & reduce energy usage.
More recent capital projects included the installation of a 5th production line & a larger more efficient pasteuriser to obtain efficiencies of scale. Other capital projects considered recirculating heat pumps that could provide factory heating during the winter months & upgraded boilers which use cleaner, more efficient gas burners.

Matters covered in the Strategic Report

Certain items required under Schedule 7 to be disclosed in the Directors' Report are set out in the Strategic Report in accordance with S.414C(II) of the Companies Act 2006; these being the Company's financial instruments risks, likely future developments, and engagement with customers/suppliers/others.

Page 6

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Disclosure of information to auditor

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

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

Post balance sheet events

There have been no significant events affecting the Company since the year end.

Auditor

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

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





Mr C I W Opie (Managing Director)
Director

Date: 30 October 2025

Page 7

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 

Opinion


We have audited the financial statements of Bennett Opie Limited (the 'Company') for the year ended 31 March 2025, which comprise the Statement of Comprehensive Income, the Balance Sheet, the Statement of Cash Flows, the Statement of Changes in Equity and the related notes, including a summary of significant accounting policiesThe financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 ‘The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).


In our opinion the financial statements:


give a true and fair view of the state of the Company's affairs as at 31 March 2025 and of its profit for the year then ended;
have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and
have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.


Basis for opinion


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


Conclusions relating to going concern


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


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


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


Page 8

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF BENNETT OPIE LIMITED (CONTINUED)


Other information


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


We have nothing to report in this regard.


Opinion on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006
 

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


the information given in the Strategic Report and the Directors' Report for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and
the Strategic Report and the Directors' Report have been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.


Matters on which we are required to report by exception
 

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the Company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the Strategic Report or the Directors' Report.


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


adequate accounting records have not been kept, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or
the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or
certain disclosures of directors' remuneration specified by law are not made; or
we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.


Page 9

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF BENNETT OPIE LIMITED (CONTINUED)


Responsibilities of directors
 

As explained more fully in the Directors' Responsibilities Statement set out on page 4, the directors are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.


In preparing the financial statements, the directors are responsible for assessing the Company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the Company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.


Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements
 

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


Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below:

enquiry of management, those charged with governance around actual and potential litigation and claims;
performing audit work over the risk of management override of controls, including testing of journal entries and other adjustments for appropriateness, evaluating the business rationale of significant transactions outside the normal course of business and reviewing accounting estimates for bias;
reviewing minutes of meetings of those charged with governance;
reviewing financial statement disclosures and testing to supporting documentation to assess compliance with applicable laws and regulations; and
maintaining professional scepticism throughout the course of our audit work.


Because of the inherent limitations of an audit, there is a risk that we will not detect all irregularities, including those leading to a material misstatement in the financial statements or non-compliance with regulation. This risk increases the more that compliance with a law or regulation is removed from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, as we will be less likely to become aware of instances of non-compliance. The risk is also greater regarding irregularities occurring due to fraud rather than error, as fraud involves intentional concealment, forgery, collusion, omission or misrepresentation.


A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our Auditor's Report.


Page 10

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF BENNETT OPIE 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.




Duncan Cochrane-Dyet BSc BFP FCA (Senior Statutory Auditor)
for and on behalf of
MHA
Statutory Auditor
Maidstone
United Kingdom

10 November 2025
MHA is the trading name of MHA Audit Services LLP, a limited liability partnership in England and Wales (registered number OC455542).
Page 11

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

2025
2024
Note
£
£

  

Turnover
 4 
52,678,279
50,419,540

Cost of sales
  
(40,050,755)
(39,414,673)

Gross profit
  
12,627,524
11,004,867

Distribution costs
  
(4,067,675)
(3,507,919)

Administrative expenses
  
(5,898,355)
(5,014,460)

Other operating income
 5 
23,629
24,989

Operating profit
 6 
2,685,123
2,507,477

Interest receivable and similar income
 10 
149,759
174,184

Interest payable and similar expenses
 11 
(40)
(8,798)

Other finance income
  
152,000
130,000

Profit before tax
  
2,986,842
2,802,863

Tax on profit
 13 
(562,559)
(489,153)

Profit for the financial year
  
2,424,283
2,313,710

Other comprehensive income for the year
  

Actuarial gains/(losses) on defined benefit pension scheme
  
(300,000)
200,000

Movement of deferred tax relating to pension deficit
  
35,000
(110,500)

Other comprehensive income for the year
  
(265,000)
89,500

Total comprehensive income for the year
  
2,159,283
2,403,210

There were no recognised gains and losses for 2025 or 2024 other than those included in the statement of comprehensive income.

The notes on pages 18 to 38 form part of these financial statements.

Page 12

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
REGISTERED NUMBER: 00124503

BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 31 MARCH 2025

2025
2024
Note
£
£

Fixed assets
  

Tangible assets
 15 
1,862,092
1,283,881

Current assets
  

Stocks
 16 
13,692,135
11,575,614

Debtors: amounts falling due within one year
 17 
11,156,297
7,446,565

Current asset investments
 18 
2,017,147
2,500,000

Cash at bank and in hand
 19 
1,128,792
2,475,923

  
27,994,371
23,998,102

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
 20 
(9,706,679)
(7,134,545)

Net current assets
  
 
 
18,287,692
 
 
16,863,557

Total assets less current liabilities
  
20,149,784
18,147,438

Provisions for liabilities
  

Deferred tax
 21 
(1,090,472)
(971,409)

  
 
 
(1,090,472)
 
 
(971,409)

Pension asset
  
2,920,000
3,060,000

Net assets
  
21,979,312
20,236,029


Capital and reserves
  

Called up share capital 
 22 
480,000
480,000

Profit and loss account
  
21,499,312
19,756,029

  
21,979,312
20,236,029


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




Mr W J Opie (Chairman)
Mr C I W Opie (Managing Director)
Director
Director


Date: 30 October 2025

The notes on pages 18 to 38 form part of these financial statements.

Page 13

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025


Called up share capital
Profit and loss account
Total equity

£
£
£


At 1 April 2023
480,000
17,880,819
18,360,819


Comprehensive income for the year

Profit for the year
-
2,313,710
2,313,710

Actuarial gains on pension scheme
-
89,500
89,500

Dividends: Equity capital
-
(528,000)
(528,000)



At 1 April 2024
480,000
19,756,029
20,236,029


Comprehensive income for the year

Profit for the year
-
2,424,283
2,424,283

Actuarial losses on pension scheme
-
(265,000)
(265,000)

Dividends: Equity capital
-
(416,000)
(416,000)


At 31 March 2025
480,000
21,499,312
21,979,312


The notes on pages 18 to 38 form part of these financial statements.

Page 14

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

2025
2024
£
£

Cash flows from operating activities

Profit for the financial year
2,424,283
2,313,710

Adjustments for:

Depreciation of tangible assets
214,913
220,636

Interest paid
40
8,798

Interest received
(149,759)
(174,184)

Taxation charge
562,559
489,153

(Increase)/decrease in stocks
(2,116,521)
993,312

(Increase) in debtors
(2,110,801)
(956,174)

(Increase) in amounts owed by groups
(1,598,931)
(243,019)

Increase/(decrease) in creditors
2,553,417
(815,278)

(Decrease) in net pension assets
(125,000)
(352,500)

Corporation tax (paid)
(424,779)
(296,257)

Net cash generated from operating activities

(770,579)
1,188,197


Cash flows from investing activities

Purchase of tangible fixed assets
(793,432)
(25,066)

Sale of tangible fixed assets
308
-

Maturity of cash held on deposit
482,853
-

Interest received
149,759
174,184

Net cash from investing activities

(160,512)
149,118
Page 15

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025


2025
2024

£
£



Cash flows from financing activities

Dividends paid
(416,000)
(528,000)

Interest paid
(40)
(8,798)

Net cash used in financing activities
(416,040)
(536,798)

Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents
(1,347,131)
800,517

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
2,475,923
1,675,406

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of year
1,128,792
2,475,923


Cash and cash equivalents at the end of year comprise:

Cash at bank and in hand
1,128,792
2,475,923

1,128,792
2,475,923


The notes on pages 18 to 38 form part of these financial statements.

Page 16

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 

ANALYSIS OF NET DEBT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025




At 1 April 2024
Cash flows
At 31 March 2025
£

£

£

Cash at bank and in hand

2,475,923

(1,347,131)

1,128,792

Debt due within 1 year

(37,019)

37,019

-


2,438,904
(1,310,112)
1,128,792

The notes on pages 18 to 38 form part of these financial statements.

Page 17

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1.


General information

Bennett Opie Limited is a private Company limited by shares incorporated in England and Wales in the United Kingdom. The address of the registered office is Chalkwell Road, Sittingbourne, Kent, ME10 2LE. 

2.Accounting policies

 
2.1

Basis of preparation of financial statements

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

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

The following principal accounting policies have been applied:

 
2.2

Going concern

The directors have considered all available relevant information including annual budgets and forecasts, future cashflows and the potential impact of subsequent events in making their assessment.
Based on this assessment and having regard to the resources available to the Company, the Directors have concluded that there is no material uncertainty over going concern and that they can continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing these accounts.

 
2.3

Foreign currency translation

Functional and presentation currency

The Company's functional and presentational currency is GBP rounded to the nearest £1.

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.

Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of transactions and from the translation at period-end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are recognised in profit or loss except when deferred in other comprehensive income as qualifying cash flow hedges.

Foreign exchange gains and losses that relate to borrowings and cash and cash equivalents are presented in the Statement of Comprehensive Income within 'finance income or costs'. All other foreign exchange gains and losses are presented in profit or loss within 'other operating income'.

Page 18

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.4

Revenue

Revenue is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Company 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 consumable goods

Revenue from the sale of consumable goods is recognised when all of the following conditions are satisfied:
the Company has transferred the significant risks and rewards of ownership to the buyer;
the Company 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 Company 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.

The Company's policy is that revenue is recognised on dispatch of the goods to customers.

 
2.5

Operating leases: the Company as lessee

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

 
2.6

Interest income

Interest income is recognised in profit or loss using the effective interest method.

 
2.7

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.

Page 19

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.8

Pensions

Defined contribution pension plan

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

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

Defined benefit pension plan

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

The liability or asset recognised in the Balance Sheet in respect of the defined benefit plan is the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the end of the balance sheet date less the fair value of plan assets at the balance sheet date (if any) out of which the obligations are to be settled. Should a net pension scheme asset arise, this is recognised on the Balance Sheet where the Group has the right to realise the asset by means of a reduction in contributions or a rebate.

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

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

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

The cost of the defined benefit plan, recognised in 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 20

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.9

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 balance sheet date in the countries where the Company operates and generates income.

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

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


 
2.10

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.

Depreciation is charged so as to allocate the cost of assets less their residual value over their estimated useful lives, using the methods below.

Depreciation is provided on the following basis:

Short-term leasehold property
-
Over the term of the lease
Plant and machinery
-
5 to 15 years straight line basis
Motor vehicles
-
25% reducing balance basis
Fixtures and fittings
-
3 to 10 years straight line basis
Office equipment
-
3 to 5 years straight line basis

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.

Page 21

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.11

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 weighted average basis. Work in progress and finished goods include labour and attributable overheads.

At each balance sheet 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.

 
2.12

Debtors

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

 
2.13

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 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 Company's cash management.

 
2.14

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.

 
2.15

Provisions for liabilities

Provisions are recognised when an event has taken place that gives rise to a legal or constructive obligation, a transfer of economic benefits is probable and a reliable estimate can be made.
Provisions are measured as the best estimate of the amount required to settle the obligation, taking into account the related risks and uncertainties.
 
Increases in provisions are generally charged as an expense to profit or loss.

Page 22

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.16

Financial instruments

The Company 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 Company's Balance Sheet when the Company 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 Company's cash and cash equivalents, trade and most other debtors due with the operating cycle fall into this category of financial instruments.

Basic financial liabilities

Financial liabilities and equity instruments are classified according to the substance of the contractual arrangements entered into. An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the Company after the deduction of all its liabilities.

Basic financial liabilities, which include trade and other creditors, bank loans and other loans 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.

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.

 
2.17

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 23

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

3.


Judgements in applying accounting policies and key sources of estimation uncertainty

The following judgements (apart from those involving estimates) have been made in the process of applying the above accounting policies that have had the most significant effect on amounts recognised in the financial statements:
 
The useful expected lives of assets. 
The annual depreciation charge for tangible assets is sensitive to changes in the estimated useful economic lives and residual values of the assets. The useful economic lives and residual values are reassessed annually. They are amended when necessary to reflect current estimates, based on technological advancement, future investments, economic utilisation and physical condition of the assets. See Note 15 for the carrying amount of tangible assets, and Note 2.10 for the useful economic lives for each class of assets.
 
The stock provisioning.
An adjustment is made for stock write down and provision for obsolete stock which is subject to some degree of uncertainty.
 
The bad debt provision.
The Directors are required to make an assessment as to the recoverability of trade debtors. Provisions are recognised against trade debtors where required. 
 
The key assumptions concerning the future and other key sources of estimation uncertainty at the reporting date that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year include:
 
The defined benefit scheme accounting.
The present value of the defined benefit asset depends on a number of factors that are determined on an actuarial basis using a variety of assumptions.  The assumptions used in determining the net cost or income for pensions include the discount rate.  Any changes in these assumptions will impact the carrying amount of the pension asset.
 
Allocation of overhead costs to the value of manufactured stock items.
A proportion of overhead is allocated to manufactured stock items


4.


Turnover

The whole of the turnover is attributable to the principal activity of the company.
Turnover has not been disclosed by geographical location, due to the commercially sensitive nature of this information.

Page 24

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

5.


Other operating income

2025
2024
£
£

Other operating income
32
791

Net rents receivable
21,566
20,562

Sundry income
2,031
3,636

23,629
24,989



6.


Operating profit

The operating profit is stated after charging:

2025
2024
£
£

Exchange differences
231,622
(270,684)

Other operating lease rentals
-
431,046


7.


Auditor's remuneration

2025
2024
£
£

Fees payable to the Company's auditor and its associates for the audit of the Company's financial statements
37,535
36,266

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

Page 25

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

8.


Employees

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


2025
2024
£
£

Wages and salaries
5,859,920
5,296,785

Social security costs
240,484
324,577

Cost of defined contribution scheme
151,140
143,391

6,251,544
5,764,753


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


        2025
        2024
            No.
            No.







Manufacturing
72
76



Sales, office and management
59
58



Directors
10
10

141
144


9.


Directors' remuneration

2025
2024
£
£

Directors' emoluments
805,549
783,947

Company contributions to defined contribution pension schemes
85,255
85,572

890,804
869,519


During the year retirement benefits were accruing to 4 directors (2024 - 4) in respect of defined contribution pension schemes.

The highest paid director received remuneration of £212,499 (2024 - £204,841).

The value of the Company's contributions paid to a defined contribution pension scheme in respect of the highest paid director amounted to £21,734 (2024 - £20,858).

All key management personnel are directors, and their remuneration is disclosed above.

Page 26

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

10.


Interest receivable

2025
2024
£
£


Other interest receivable
149,759
174,184

149,759
174,184


11.


Interest payable and similar expenses

2025
2024
£
£


Other loan interest payable
61
8,816

Finance leases and hire purchase contracts
(21)
(18)

40
8,798


12.


Other finance costs

2025
2024
£
£

Net interest on net defined pension scheme benefit liability
152,000
130,000

152,000
130,000


Page 27

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

13.


Taxation


2025
2024
£
£

Corporation tax


Current tax on profits for the year
563,478
682,910

Adjustments in respect of previous periods
(154,982)
(92,186)


408,496
590,724


Total current tax
408,496
590,724

Deferred tax


Origination and reversal of timing differences
154,063
(101,571)

Total deferred tax
154,063
(101,571)


562,559
489,153
Page 28

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
 
13.Taxation (continued)


Factors affecting tax charge for the year

The tax assessed for the year is lower than (2024 - lower than) the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 25% (2024 - 25%). The differences are explained below:

2025
2024
£
£


Profit on ordinary activities before tax
2,986,842
2,802,863


Profit on ordinary activities multiplied by standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 25% (2024 - 25%)
746,711
700,716

Effects of:


Expenses not deductible for tax purposes, other than goodwill amortisation and impairment
9,864
2,358

Capital allowances for year in excess of depreciation
3,452
-

Adjustments to tax charge in respect of prior periods
(154,982)
(92,186)

Adjustments to tax charge in respect of prior periods - deferred tax
-
(58,288)

Non-taxable income
(40,000)
(60,500)

Other differences leading to an increase (decrease) in the tax charge
461
-

Group relief
(2,947)
(2,947)

Total tax charge for the year
562,559
489,153


14.


Dividends

2025
2024
£
£


Dividends on ordinary shares
400,000
512,000


Dividends on preference shares
16,000
16,000

416,000
528,000

Page 29

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

15.


Tangible fixed assets





Leasehold property
Plant and machinery
Motor vehicles

£
£
£



Cost or valuation


At 1 April 2024
129,068
5,746,857
30,515


Additions
-
793,432
-


Disposals
-
-
(11,116)



At 31 March 2025

129,068
6,540,289
19,399



Depreciation


At 1 April 2024
129,068
4,557,785
21,665


Charge for the year on owned assets
-
190,973
2,169


Disposals
-
-
(10,808)



At 31 March 2025

129,068
4,748,758
13,026



Net book value



At 31 March 2025
-
1,791,531
6,373



At 31 March 2024
-
1,189,072
8,850
Page 30

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

           15.Tangible fixed assets (continued)


Fixtures and fittings
Office equipment
Total

£
£
£



Cost or valuation


At 1 April 2024
826,138
240,655
6,973,233


Additions
-
-
793,432


Disposals
-
-
(11,116)



At 31 March 2025

826,138
240,655
7,755,549



Depreciation


At 1 April 2024
740,179
240,655
5,689,352


Charge for the year on owned assets
21,771
-
214,913


Disposals
-
-
(10,808)



At 31 March 2025

761,950
240,655
5,893,457



Net book value



At 31 March 2025
64,188
-
1,862,092



At 31 March 2024
85,959
-
1,283,881


16.


Stocks

2025
2024
£
£

Raw materials and consumables
2,224,058
2,016,038

Work in progress (goods to be sold)
4,531
3,828

Finished goods and goods for resale
11,463,546
9,555,748

13,692,135
11,575,614


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

Page 31

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

17.


Debtors

2025
2024
£
£


Trade debtors
7,902,771
5,879,589

Amounts owed by group undertakings
2,084,084
485,153

Other debtors
78,454
53,110

Prepayments and accrued income
1,090,988
1,028,713

11,156,297
7,446,565



18.


Current asset investments

2025
2024
£
£

Unlisted investments (liquid)
2,017,147
2,500,000

2,017,147
2,500,000


The amounts above under short term investments are cash balances held in 65 day notice accounts.


19.


Cash and cash equivalents

2025
2024
£
£

Cash at bank and in hand
1,128,792
2,475,923

1,128,792
2,475,923


Page 32

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

20.


Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year

2025
2024
£
£

Trade creditors
8,076,799
5,365,036

Corporation tax
113,378
94,661

Other taxation and social security
166,349
150,556

Other creditors
-
37,019

Accruals and deferred income
1,350,153
1,487,273

9,706,679
7,134,545


Amounts due to group undertakings are unsecured, interest-free and due on demand. 


21.


Deferred taxation




2025
2024


£

£






At beginning of year
(971,409)
(962,480)


Charged to profit or loss
(154,063)
101,571


Charged to other comprehensive income
35,000
(110,500)



At end of year
(1,090,472)
(971,409)

The provision for deferred taxation is made up as follows:

2025
2024
£
£


Accelerated capital allowances
(363,782)
(209,165)

Pension surplus
(730,000)
(765,000)

Short-term timing differences
3,310
2,756

(1,090,472)
(971,409)

Page 33

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

22.


Share capital

2025
2024
£
£
Allotted, called up and fully paid



320,000 (2024 - 320,000) Ordinary shares of £1.00 each
320,000
320,000
160,000 (2024 - 160,000) Preference shares of £1.00 each
160,000
160,000

480,000

480,000

The rights of the preference shareholders include a right to dividend and a priority over the ordinary shareholders as regards to dividend and capital on winding up.



23.


Pension commitments

The Company contributes to three money purchase pension schemes for certain employees. Employers contribution are charged to profit and loss account as they fall due. Contributions payable by the Company for the period were £Nil (2024 - £Nil).
Additionally, the Company operates a defined benefit pension scheme in the UK, the Bennett Opie Staff Pension Scheme. This is a separate trustee administered fund holding the pension scheme assets to meet long term pension liabilities. A full actuarial valuation was carried out at 31 March 2020 and updated to reflect the preliminary findings as at 31 March 2025 by a qualified actuary, independent of the scheme's sponsoring employer. 
The preliminary results showed the valuation of the scheme assets to have grown from a deficit of £429,000 at 31 March 2020, to a surplus of £2,920,000 as at 31 March 2025. This significant change has been attributed mainly to an increase in Gilt yields which decrease the value of the scheme liabilities. In addition the investment performance of the scheme assets was higher than expected.  



Reconciliation of present value of plan liabilities:


2025
2024
£
£

Reconciliation of present value of plan liabilities


At the beginning of the year
2,941,000
2,734,000

Current service cost
52,000
53,000

Interest cost
144,000
131,000

Actuarial gains/losses
(493,000)
(2,000)

Contributions
26,000
25,000

At the end of the year
2,670,000
2,941,000

Page 34

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
 
23.Pension commitments (continued)



Reconciliation of present value of plan assets:


2025
2024
£
£


At the beginning of the year
6,001,000
5,352,000

Interest income
296,000
261,000

Expenses
(15,000)
(14,000)

Actuarial gains/(losses)
(793,000)
198,000

Contributions
101,000
204,000

At the end of the year
5,590,000
6,001,000


Composition of plan assets:


2025
2024
£
£


Overseas Equities
3,055,000
3,278,000

Unit linked Government Bonds
1,667,000
1,708,000

Property
691,000
841,000

Cash and alternatives
46,000
108,000

With Profits
131,000
66,000

Total plan assets
5,590,000
6,001,000

2025
2024
£
£


Fair value of plan assets
5,590,000
6,001,000

Present value of plan liabilities
(2,670,000)
(2,941,000)

Net pension scheme liability
2,920,000
3,060,000


The amounts recognised in profit or loss are as follows:

2025
2024
£
£


Interest on obligation
152,000
130,000

Total
152,000
130,000


Page 35

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
 
23.Pension commitments (continued)


The cumulative amount recognised in the Statement of Comprehensive Income was £300,000 of actuarial losses (2024 - £200,000 of actuarial gains).



The Company expects to contribute £NIL to its Defined benefit pension scheme in 2026.





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

2025
2024
%
%
Discount rate


5.90

4.90
 
Future salary increases


3.10

3.05
 
Future pension increases


3.30

3.30
 
Proportion of employees opting for early retirement



2.50
 
Inflation assumption


3.10

3.05
 
Mortality rates



 
- for a male aged 65 now


21.9

21.9
 
- at 65 for a male aged 45 now


23.6

23.5
 
- for a female aged 65 now


24.0

23.9
 
- at 65 for a female member aged 45 now


25.7

25.6
 

No allowance has been made for early retirement in determining the pension liabilities, consistent with the actuarial valuation.


Page 36

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
 
23.Pension commitments (continued)


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


Defined benefit pension schemes

2025
2024
2023
2022
2021
£
£
£
£
£
Defined benefit obligation

(2,670,000)

(2,941,000)

(2,734,000)
 
(4,976,000)
 
(6,554,000)

Scheme assets

5,590,000

6,001,000

5,352,000
 
6,213,000
 
6,995,000

Surplus
2,920,000

3,060,000

2,618,000
 
1,237,000
 
441,000


Experience adjustments on scheme liabilities
(2,000)
121,000
(126,000)
310,000
1,066,000
Experience adjustments on scheme assets
(793,000)
198,000
(386,000)
131,000
615,000
(795,000)
319,000
(512,000)
441,000
1,681,000


Reconciliation of pension adjustment to profit and loss account



2025
2024
£
£
Pension contributions paid

(75,000)

(179,000)

Finance charges - interest cost

144,000

131,000

Finance charges - expected return

296,000

261,000

365,000

213,000


Page 37

 
BENNETT OPIE LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

24.


Commitments under operating leases

At 31 March 2025 the Company had future minimum lease payments due under non-cancellable operating leases for each of the following periods:

Plant & Equipment 2024
Plant & Equipment 2023
£
£


Not later than 1 year
97,578
51,401

Later than 1 year and not later than 5 years
136,684
15,474

Later than 5 years
252
-

234,514
66,875

Land & Buildings 2024
Land & Buildings 2023

£
£


Not later than 1 year
588,519
315,794

Later than 1 year and not later than 5 years
957,598
185,595

1,546,117
501,389


25.Other financial commitments

At the year end the Company was financially committed to make payment for raw materials and finished goods to the value of £865,920 (2024 - £274,385).


26.


Related party transactions

Dividends totalling £416,000 (2024 - £528,000) were paid during the year to Bennett Opie Holdings Limited, the parent company. At the period end £2,084,084 (2024 - £485,153) was owed by Bennett Opie Holdings Limited.


27.


Controlling party

The immediate parent and controlling party is Bennett Opie Holdings Limited, which is incorporated in the United Kingdom and registered in England & Wales. 
The smallest and largest group in which the results of the Company are consolidated is that headed by Bennett Opie Holdings Limited, whose financial statements are available from Bennett Opie Limited, Chalkwell Road, Sittingbourne, Kent, ME10 2LE.

Page 38