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Registered number: 15016822


STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED
(FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
COMPANY INFORMATION


Directors
F Frykstrand 
T Garvey 
N Owen 




Registered number
15016822



Registered office
1a Alma Road
Windsor

Berkshire

SL4 3HU




Independent auditors
PKF Smith Cooper Audit Limited
Statutory Auditors

Cornerblock

2 Cornwall Street

Birmingham

B3 2DX





 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 

CONTENTS



Page
Group strategic report
1 - 4
Directors' report
5 - 9
Independent auditors' report
10 - 12
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income
13
Consolidated balance sheet
14 - 15
Company balance sheet
16
Consolidated statement of changes in equity
17
Company statement of changes in equity
18
Consolidated statement of cash flows
19 - 20
Consolidated analysis of net debt
21
Notes to the financial statements
22 - 46


 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
GROUP STRATEGIC REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

The Directors present their Group Strategic Report and the financial statements of STI Enterprises Holdings Limited (formerly Sand 2023 Limited) ("STIEH" or "Group") for the year ended 31 December 2024.

Principal activity
 
The principal activity of the Parent Company is a holding company.

The principal activity of Clifton 2025 Limited (formerly STI Enterprises Limited) is a holding company.

The principal activity of Surface Technology International Limited is that of the provision of contract electronic manufacturing services for the high reliability electronics industry.

The principal activities of the Group are not expected to change in the foreseeable future.

Non-consolidation of Surface Technology International Philippines Inc.

These consolidated financial statements reflect the activities of the Company for the year to 31 December 2024, and of its subsidiary undertakings, Surface Technology International Limited and Clifton 2025 Limited (formerly STI Enterprises Limited), together with the consolidated balance sheet of these companies as at 31 December 2024. 

As a consequence of a decision to place the Company’s subsidiary undertaking Surface Technology International Philippines Inc. into liquidation on 2 December 2024, the directors of the Company have been unable to obtain all of the information and supporting evidence required to enable them to include this subsidiary undertaking in these consolidated financial statements. Therefore, the Consolidated statement of comprehensive income included in these financial statements does not include any amounts relating to Surface Technology International Philippines Inc. for the period 1 January 2024 to 2 December 2024, the comparative period covering 31 October 2023 to 31 December 2023 or any profit or loss on disposal at the date the Group ceased to have control of this subsidiary undertaking. The consolidated balance sheet for the comparative period ended 31 December 2023 does not include any amounts related to Surface Technology International Philippines Inc. as at that date.

The liquidation of Surface Technology International Philippines Inc. will have no impact on the ability of STI Enterprises Holdings Limited and its subsidiary companies in the UK to continue as a going concern.

Business review
 
The directors of the Group consider the results of the period following the acquisition of subsidiary undertakings to be satisfactory.

The directors consider the key financial performance indicators of the Group to be Gross profit, Earnings before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation (EBITDA), Working Capital and Cash at Bank. 

Page 1

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 

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

Year ended
31 December 2024
Period ended
31 December 2023
      £000
      £000
Gross profit

14,635

2,114
 
EBITDA

(290)

(529)
 
Working capital

4,431

9,493
 
Cash at bank

1,284

1,283
 

The performance and future developments of the Company are noted in this report.


Principal risks and uncertainties

The Group's principal financial instruments comprise bank balances, trade creditors, trade debtors, finance lease agreements, asset based lending facilities and long-term related party loans. The main purpose of these instruments is to raise funds and to finance the Group's operations. The Group is not significantly exposed to price risk due to the nature of its trading operations and contract arrangements. The Group's approach to managing other risks applicable to the financial instruments concerned is shown below.

a) Trade debtors are managed in respect of credit and cash flow risk by policies concerning the credit offered to customers and the regular monitoring of amounts outstanding for both time and credit limits.

b) Trade creditors liquidity risk is managed by ensuring sufficient funds are available to meet amounts as they fall due.

c) The conflict between Russia and Ukraine poses a risk to STI in relation to supply chain issues, with possible delays or disturbance to receiving components from our suppliers. This continues to be monitored and we expect little impact to our supply chain. This is reduced by passing on additional costs to our customers. In addition, sadly the conflict may result in additional business for STI, due to the nature of our work. We continue to monitor this with close customer contact.

d) Global political instability also poses a risk to the business, most recently through tariffs that will impact global prices. So far there has been minimal impact as little trade goes to the US, however, where this impacts costs the Group will always look to work collaboratively with its customers and suppliers to minimise price and costs impacts.

e) Inflation rate increase risk, pushing up costs of materials, labour, and other fixed costs. The Group continues to monitor the cost base and ensure any additional costs are passed onto our customers.

f) Interest rate risk for the Group relating to the increases in the UK Bank of England Base Rate will impact our asset based lending facilities and other loans.

It is the policy of the Group to settle terms of payment with suppliers on a timely basis in the ordinary course of business, and to agree appropriate terms and conditions in advance with its suppliers. The Group endeavours to make payment in accordance with those terms and conditions provided that the supplier has complied with them. Suppliers and their payment terms are looked at on an individual basis and regularly reviewed. The average payment period of suppliers is 60 days. A copy of the Group's standard payment practice can be obtained from the Group's premises.



Page 2

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 

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



Other key performance indicators


Year ended 31 December 2024

Period ended 31
December 2023
 
Tonnes of CO2e per 1000 boards produced

3.8

5.6
 
Employee retention (%)

83.2

82.2
 
Employee turnover (%)

24.7

23.4
 

S172 Statement

Stakeholders

The Board of Directors, in line with their duties under s172 of the Companies Act 2006, recognises that the long-term sustainable success of the Group is dependent on the way it interacts with a large number of stakeholders.

Our core values provide our people with a common understanding of what matters to us and how we work:

EXCELLENCE: Doing your best to exceed expectations
CUSTOMER FOCUS: Building strong partnerships with customers
INTEGRITY: Honesty and Trustworthiness
CONCERN FOR OTHERS: Respecting and caring for others

Our responsibilities extend to our customers, employees, suppliers, the local community, and the environment around us. We engage with our stakeholders in a variety of ways, including:

Our Customers

We will support our customers at all stages of the manufacturing journey, from concept design, through production, test, and system integration, to realise the most innovative products and enable them to be at the forefront of technology.

Our Employees

We will empower our employees to make decisions and provide opportunities for both personal and career development. We aim to create a varied, interesting place to work and a culture based on our 4 core values; Excellence, Customer Focus, Integrity and Concern for others.

Our Suppliers

For our suppliers, we will build long-lasting, resilient, and responsive relationships, based on trust and mutual benefit, to withstand the pressures of industry.

Our Shareholders

For our shareholders, we will create value by growing the Group organically and becoming more efficient in providing our capabilities.

Page 3

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 

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

Outlook

The Group has seen a continuation of challenges in 2024, that impacted in the business in 2023, including uncertain market conditions in the various sectors the business operates in, extended lead times from suppliers and management change.

However, this does appear to be easing, and through effective communication with customers and suppliers this position is being managed.  The business is excited by the change of ownership, renewed financial backing, and the increased strategic focus this brings.  Market conditions appear to be moving in the company’s favour and this will present good opportunities in the future.






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



T Garvey
Director

Date: 1 May 2026

Page 4

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 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.

Director

The director who served during the year was:

W13S Directors Limited (resigned 19 March 2026)
C Campbell (resigned 19 March 2026)
P Emmerson (resigned 19 March 2026)
A Reek (resigned 19 March 2026)
 
Since the year end, the following directors have been appointed:

Mr T Hair (appointed 10 September 2025) (resigned 19 March 2026)
Mrs F Frykstrand (appointed 19 March 2026)
Mr N Owen (appointed 19 March 2026)
Mr T Garvey (appointed 2 April 2026)

Director's liabilities

The Group has indemnified the directors against liability in respect of proceedings brought by third parties, subject to the conditions set out in section 234 of the Companies Act 2006. Such qualifying third-party indemnity provision was in force during the year and is in force as at the date of approving the directors' report.

Dividends

No dividends were proposed or paid during the current year or comparative period.

The directors do not recommend a payment of a final dividend.

Disabled employees

The Group gives full consideration to applications for employment from disabled persons where the requirements of the job can be adequately fulfilled by a handicapped or disabled person. Where existing employees become disabled, it is the Group's policy, wherever practicable, to provide continuing employment under normal terms and conditions and to provide training and career development and promotion to disabled employees, wherever appropriate.

Engagement with employees

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

Page 5

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR)

UK energy use and associated greenhouse gas emissions

Current UK based annual energy usage and associated annual greenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions are reported pursuant to the Companies (Directors’ Report) and Limited Liability Partnerships (Energy and Carbon Report) Regulations 2018 (“the 2018 Regulations”) that came into force 1 April 2019.

Organisational boundary

In accordance with the 2018 Regulations, the energy use and associated GHG emissions are for those assets within the UK only as defined by the operational control approach. This includes the manufacturing sites in Hook and Poynton, along with Company owned and personal vehicles used for business mileage (referred to as "grey fleet")

Reporting period

The annual reporting period is 1 January to 31 December each year and the energy and carbon emissions are aligned to this period and relate to the trading subsidiary, Surface Technology International Limited, included in these financial statements.

Quantification and reporting methodology

The 2019 UK Government Environmental Reporting Guidelines and the GHG Protocol Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard (revised edition) were followed. The 2024 UK Government GHG Conversion Factors for Company Reporting were used in emission calculations as these relate to the majority of the reporting period. The report has been reviewed independently by Zenergi Limited (trading as Briar Consulting Engineers Limited).

Electricity and gas consumption were based on invoice records and half hourly data, where applicable, while mileage was used to calculate energy and emissions from fleet vehicles and grey fleet. Where data falls outside of the reporting period, the apportioning technique has been applied to ensure alignment. Where gaps in data were identified, the direct comparison technique has been applied and noted on the carbon calculator provided with this report. Gross calorific values were used except for mileage energy calculations as per Government GHG Conversion Factors.

The emissions are divided into mandatory and voluntary emissions according to the 2018 Regulations, then further divided into the direct combustion of fuels and the operation of facilities (scope 1), indirect emissions from purchased electricity (scope 2) and further indirect emissions that occur as a consequence of Company activities but occur from sources not owned or controlled by the organisation (scope 3). The Group has opted not to disclose voluntary emissions.

Breakdown of energy consumption used to calculate emissions (KWH):

Energy Type
2024
2023
Mandatory requirements:


Gas
1,202,392
706,939
Purchased electricity
2,094,841
2,117,259
Transport fuel
70,242
140,586
Total energy (mandatory)
3,367,475
2,964,784






Page 6

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Breakdown of emissions associated with the reported energy use (tC02e)

Emission source
2024
2023
Mandatory requirements:


Scope 1


Gas
219.9
129.1
Company owned vehicles
0.8
1.6
Scope 2


Purchased electricity (location-based)
433.7
409.4
Scope 3


Category 6: Business travel (grey fleet)
16.3
26.9
Total gross emissions (mandatory)
670.7
567.1
Intensity ratios (mandatory emissions only)


Tonnes of C02e per 1000 boards produced
3.8
5.6
Tonnes of C02e per million-pound turnover
11.9
11.1
Total gross emissions
670.7
567.1


Intensity ratio

The intensity ratio is total gross emissions in metric tonnes CO2e (mandatory emissions) per total million-pound (£m) turnover. The turnover relates to UK operations only to align with the energy and emission reporting boundary. The other intensity ratio included in this report is metric tonnes CO2e (mandatory emissions) per 1,000 boards produced. These metrics are considered the most relevant to the Group’s energy consuming activities and provides a good comparison of performance over time and across different organisations and sectors.

Energy efficiency action during current financial period

In the year 2024, the Group has undertaken the following actions to improve energy efficiencies:

Lighting across all sites is being converted to LED which uses less energy than traditional incandescent or florescent bulbs. This project is on-going, with few areas still using florescent bulbs.

No other significant capital investments have been made in 2024.

Going concern

The Directors have reviewed the current performance of the business as well as future expectations. The Group have prepared detailed cashflow forecasts, including downside scenarios impacting revenue and costs, to ensure that sufficient finance will be available to meet obligations as they fall due, in line with the Group’s business plan, up until at least 31 December 2027.

The directors have taken into account the liquidation of the Company’s subsidiary undertaking, Surface Technology International Philippines Inc, and have concluded that this will have no impact on the ability of the Company and its subsidiary companies in the UK to continue trading as a going concern.

The Directors therefore consider that the Group will be able to settle its liabilities as they fall due and has adequate resources to continue in business for a period of at least 12 months from the date of approval of these financial statements.


Page 7

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Directors' responsibilities statement

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 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 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.

Matters covered in the Group strategic report

The directors have chosen to set out in the Strategic Report information required to be stated in the Directors Report including a review of the business, principal risks and uncertainties and an indication of likely future developments in the business.

Disclosure of information to auditors

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 auditors are 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 auditors are aware of that information.

Post balance sheet events

Details of post balance sheet events affecting the Group are disclosed in note 34.

Auditors

The auditorsPKF Smith Cooper Audit Limitedwill be proposed for reappointment in accordance with section 485 of the Companies Act 2006.

Page 8

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

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





T Garvey
Director

Date: 1 May 2026

Page 9

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 

Disclaimer of opinion


We were engaged to audit the financial statements of STI Enterprises Holdings Limited (formerly Sand 2023 Limited) (the ‘Parent Company’) and its subsidiaries (the 'Group') for the year ended 31 December 2024, which comprise the Consolidated statement of comprehensive income, Consolidated balance sheet, Company balance sheet, Consolidated statement of changes in equity, Company statement of changes in equity, Consolidated cash flow statement, the Consolidated analysis of net debt and the notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The 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 Ireland” (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

We do not express an opinion on the accompanying financial statements of the Parent Company and Group. Because of the significance of the matter described in the basis for disclaimer of opinion section of our report, we have not been able to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence to provide a basis for an audit opinion on these financial statements. 


Basis for disclaimer of opinion


As explained in the notes to the financial statements set out in note 2.2 and note 34, as a consequence of a decision to place the Company’s subsidiary undertaking Surface Technology International Philippines Inc. into liquidation on 2 December 2024, the Directors have been unable to obtain all of the necessary information and supporting documentation to include this subsidiary undertaking in the consolidation of these financial statements.

Therefore, the Consolidated statement of comprehensive income included in these financial statements does not include any amounts relating to Surface Technology International Philippines Inc. for the period 1 January 2024 to 2 December 2024, the comparative period covering 31 October 2023 to 31 December 2023 or any profit or loss on disposal at the date the Group ceased to have control of this subsidiary undertaking. The consolidated balance sheet for the comparative period ended 31 December 2023 does not include any amounts related to Surface Technology International Philippines Inc. as at that date.

We have been unable to obtain sufficient audit evidence to reliably quantify the difference between the consolidated financial statements as presented and the consolidated financial statements as they would appear had it been possible to include Surface Technology International Philippines Inc’s statement of comprehensive income for the period 1 January 2024 to 2 December 2024, the comparative period covering 31 October 2023 to 31 December 2023, any profit or loss on disposal at the date the Group ceased to have control of this subsidiary undertaking and its balance sheet as at 31 December 2023.
  
As a result of these matters, we were unable to determine whether these consolidated financial statements present a true and fair view.


Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006


Because of the significance of the matter described in the basis for disclaimer of opinion section of our report, we have been unable to form an opinion, whether based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit: 

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



Page 10

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED) (CONTINUED)





Matters on which we are required to report by exception


Notwithstanding our disclaimer of an opinion on the financial statements, in the light of the knowledge and understanding of the Parent Company, Group and its environment obtained in the course of the audit performed subject to the pervasive limitation described above, we have not identified material misstatements in the Strategic Report or the Directors’ Report.
 
Arising from the limitation of our work referred to above: 

we have not obtained all the information and explanations that we considered necessary for the purpose of our audit; 
we were unable to determine whether adequate accounting records have been kept in relation to the Parent Company’s subsidiary, Surface Technology International Philippines Inc;
returns adequate for our audit have not been received from the Parent Company’s subsidiary Surface Technology International Philippines Inc, a company not visited by us.

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to the Companies Act 2006 which requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:
 
the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns for the companies included in these consolidated financial statements;
certain disclosures of directors’ remuneration specified by law are not made.   
 

Responsibilities of directors
 

As explained more fully in the Directors' responsibilities statement set out on page 8, 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 responsibility is to conduct an audit of the financial statements in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) and to issue an auditor’s report. 

However, because of the matter described in the basis for disclaimer of opinion section of our report, we were not able to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence to provide a basis for an audit opinion on these financial statements. 

We are independent of the Group in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. 
 
Page 11

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 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 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the Company's members those matters we are required to state to them in an Auditors' 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 Newman (Senior Statutory Auditor)
  
for and on behalf of
PKF Smith Cooper Audit Limited
 
Statutory Auditors
  
Cornerblock
2 Cornwall Street
Birmingham
B3 2DX

1 May 2026
Page 12

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Year ended
 31 December
Period ended
31 December
2024
2023
Note
£000
£000

  

Turnover
 4 
56,274
8,327

Cost of sales
  
(41,639)
(6,213)

Gross profit
  
14,635
2,114

Administrative expenses
  
(13,528)
(1,140)

Exceptional administrative expenses
 13 
(1,580)
(240)

Other operating income
 5 
66
20

Operating (loss) / profit
 6 
(407)
754

Interest receivable and similar income
 10 
518
104

Interest payable and similar expenses
 11 
(1,027)
(478)

(Loss) / profit before taxation
  
(916)
380

Tax on (loss)/profit
 12 
71
900

(Loss)/profit for the financial year / period
  
(845)
1,280

(Loss)/profit for the year / period attributable to:
  

Owners of the parent Company
  
(845)
1,280

  
(845)
1,280

There was no other comprehensive income for the year ended 31 December 2024 (period ended 31 December 2023: £nil).

The notes on pages 22 to 46 form part of these financial statements.

The Consolidated statement of comprehensive income includes the Company's activities and the activities of its trading subsidiaries, Surface Technology International Limited and Clifton 2025 Limited (formerly STI Enterprises Limited). As noted in note 2.2, it does not include any amounts relating to its subsidiary undertaking, Surface Technology International Philippines Inc.

Page 13

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
REGISTERED NUMBER: 15016822

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024

2024
2023
Note
£000
£000

Fixed assets
  

Negative goodwill
 15 
(4,092)
(4,990)

Tangible assets
 16 
1,969
2,645

  
(2,123)
(2,345)

Current assets
  

Stocks
 18 
8,571
13,470

Debtors: amounts falling due within one year
 19 
14,225
10,924

Cash at bank and in hand
 20 
1,284
1,283

  
24,080
25,677

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
 21 
(19,452)
(15,377)

Net current assets
  
 
 
4,628
 
 
10,300

Total assets less current liabilities
  
2,505
7,955

Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year
 22 
(1,082)
(5,698)

Provisions for liabilities
  

Other provisions
 27 
(988)
(977)

  
 
 
(988)
 
 
(977)

Net assets
  
435
1,280


Capital and reserves
  

Called up share capital 
 28 
-
-

Profit and loss account
 29 
435
1,280

Equity attributable to owners of the parent Company
  
435
1,280

  
435
1,280


Page 14

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
REGISTERED NUMBER: 15016822
    
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (CONTINUED)
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024

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




T Garvey
Director

Date: 1 May 2026

The notes on pages 22 to 46 form part of these financial statements.

Page 15

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
REGISTERED NUMBER: 15016822

COMPANY BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024

2024
2023
Note
£000
£000

Fixed assets
  

Investments
 17 
2,688
2,688

  
2,688
2,688

Current assets
  

Debtors: amounts falling due within one year
 19 
35
35

  
35
35

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
 21 
(2,856)
(210)

Net current liabilities
  
 
 
(2,821)
 
 
(175)

Total assets less current liabilities
  
(133)
2,513

  

Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year
 22 
(13)
(2,513)

  

  
(146)
-


Capital and reserves
  

Called up share capital 
 28 
-
-

Loss/(profit) for the year
  
(146)
-

Profit and loss account carried forward
  
(146)
-

  
(146)
-


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


T Garvey
Director

Date: 1 May 2026

The notes on pages 22 to 46 form part of these financial statements.

Page 16

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 

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


Called up share capital
Profit and loss account
Total equity

£000
£000
£000


At 1 October 2023
-
-
-



Profit for the period
-
1,280
1,280

Shares issued during the period
-
-
-



At 1 January 2024
-
1,280
1,280


Comprehensive income for the year

Loss for the year
-
(845)
(845)


At 31 December 2024
-
435
435


The notes on pages 22 to 46 form part of these financial statements.

Page 17

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 

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


Called up share capital
Profit and loss account
Total equity

£000
£000
£000


At 1 October 2023
-
-
-



Shares issued during the period
-
-
-



At 1 January 2024
-
-
-



Loss for the year
-
(146)
(146)


At 31 December 2024
-
(146)
(146)


The notes on pages 22 to 46 form part of these financial statements.

Page 18

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 

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

2024
2023
£000
£000

Cash flows from operating activities

(Loss)/profit for the financial year
(845)
1,280

Adjustments for:

Negative goodwill recognised in profit or loss
(898)
(1,472)

Depreciation of tangible assets
1,015
186

Interest payable
1,027
478

Interest receivable
(518)
(104)

Taxation credit
(71)
(900)

Decrease in stocks
4,899
827

(Increase)/decrease in debtors
(3,230)
922

(Decrease) in creditors
(4,994)
(941)

Increase in provisions
11
13

Net cash generated from operating activities

(3,604)
289


Cash flows from investing activities

Net cash outflow on acquisition of subsidiaries
-
(1,541)

Purchase of tangible fixed assets
(339)
(8)

Interest received
518
104

Net cash from investing activities

179
(1,445)
Page 19

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 

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


2024
2023

£000
£000



Cash flows from financing activities

Cash received from bank loans
583
-

Repayment of bank loans
(97)
-

Cash received from other loans
-
3,038

Repayment on hire purchases in year
(14)
(9)

Net movement on invoice financing facilities
3,665
-

Interest paid
(666)
(290)

Payment of loan arrangement fees
(45)
(300)

Net cash used in financing activities
3,426
2,439

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
1
1,283

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
1,283
-

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of year
1,284
1,283


Cash and cash equivalents at the end of year comprise:

Cash at bank and in hand
1,284
1,283

1,284
1,283


The notes on pages 22 to 46 form part of these financial statements.

Page 20

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 

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





At 1 January 2024
Cash flows
Non-cash
At 31 December 2024
£000

£000

£000

£000

Cash at bank and in hand

1,283

1

-

1,284

Debt due after 1 year

(5,689)

(378)

4,988

(1,079)

Debt due within 1 year

-

(3,665)

(5,266)

(8,931)

Finance leases

(23)

14

-

(9)


(4,429)
(4,028)
(278)
(8,735)

The notes on pages 22 to 46 form part of these financial statements.

Debt due after more than 1 year includes £340,000 (2023: £nil) of bank loans and £739,000 (2023: £3,189,000) of other loans as disclosed in note 22.

Debt due within 1 year includes £108,000 (2023: £nil) of bank loans, £2,658,000 (2023: £nil) of other loans and £6,165,000 (2023: £nil) of amounts included in other creditors relating to £2,500,000 (2023: £nil) of deferred consideration and £3,665,000 (2023: £nil) for the Group’s invoice financing facilities, all amounts as disclosed in note 21.

Page 21

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

1.


General information

STI Enterprises Holdings Limited (formerly Sand 2023 Limited), is a private company, limited by shares, registered in England and Wales, United Kingdom. The address of the registered office and the Company's registration number are given in the company information page to these financial statements. The nature of the Company's operations and principal activities are described in the Strategic Report on page 1. 

The Group's principal place of business is Osborn Way, Hook, Hampshire, RG27 9HX.

These financial statements cover a 12 month accounting period from 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2024, which is the first full year of reporting for the Group. The Company was incorporated on 20 July 2023 and on 31 October 2023 it acquired 100% of the share capital of Clifton 2025 Limited (formerly STI Enterprises Limited) and its subsidiary undertakings. The prior year financial statements covered a 2 month accounting period from the date of acquisition to 31 December 2023 to align the group reporting period to that of its subsidiary undertakings and, as a result, the current and comparative year are not entirely comparable.

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 financial statements are presented in Pound Sterling (£) which is the functional currency of the Group and amounts have been presented in round thousands (£'000s)

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 judgement 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 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 Balance sheet, 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.

These consolidated financial statements reflect the activity of the Company and of its subsidiary undertakings, Surface Technology International Limited and Clifton 2025 Limited (formerly STI Enterprises Limited) for the year ended 31 December 2024, together with the balance sheets of these entities. 
 
Page 22

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)


2.2
Basis of consolidation (continued)


As a consequence of a decision to place the Company’s subsidiary undertaking Surface Technology International Philippines Inc. into liquidation on 2 December 2024, the directors of the Company have been unable to obtain all of the information and supporting evidence required to enable them to include this subsidiary undertaking in these consolidated financial statements. Therefore, the Consolidated statement of comprehensive income included in these financial statements does not include any amounts relating to Surface Technology International Philippines Inc. for the period 1 January 2024 to 2 December 2024, the comparative period covering 31 October 2023 to 31 December 2023 or any profit or loss on disposal at the date the Group ceased to have control of this subsidiary undertaking. The consolidated balance sheet for the comparative period ended 31 December 2023 does not include any amounts related to Surface Technology International Philippines Inc. as at that date.

 
2.3

Going concern

The Directors have reviewed the current performance of the business as well as future expectations. The Group has prepared detailed cashflow forecasts, including downside scenarios impacting revenue and costs, to ensure that sufficient finance will be available to meet obligations as they fall due, in line with the Group’s business plan, up until at least 31 December 2027. The Group has significant headroom within its existing financing arrangements which are on track to reduce further during the year ended 31 December 2025.

The directors have taken into account the liquidation of the Company’s subsidiary undertaking, Surface Technology International Philippines Inc, and have concluded that this will have no impact on the ability of the Company and its subsidiary companies in the UK to continue trading as a going concern.

The Directors therefore consider that the Goup will be able to settle its liabilities as they fall due and has adequate resources to continue in business for a period of at least 12 months from the date of approval of these financial statements.

 
2.4

Research and development

Research and development expenditure is written off in the period it is incurred.

 
2.5

Revenue

Turnover is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable for goods supplied and services rendered, net of discounts and Value Added Tax.

Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised when the significant risks and rewards of ownership have transferred to the buyer (usually on despatch of the goods); the amount of revenue can be measured reliably; it is probable that the associated economic benefits will flow to the entity; and the costs incurred or to be incurred in respect of the transactions can be measured reliably. Revenue from the sale of services is recognised once the service is completed.

Page 23

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)

  
2.6

Business combinations

Business combinations are accounted for using the purchase method as at the acquisition date, which is the date on which control is transferred to the entity. As noted in Section 2.2, these financial statements do not consolidate the financial statements of the subsidiary undertaking, Surface Technology International Philippines Inc.

At the acquisition date, the Group recognises goodwill as:

the fair value of the consideration (excluding contingent consideration) transferred; plus
the estimated amount of contingent consideration (see below); plus
the fair value of the equity instruments issued; plus
the directly attributable transaction costs, less
the fair value of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities and contingent, liabilities assumed.

When the excess is negative, this is recognised and separately disclosed as negative goodwill.

Consideration which is contingent on future events, is recognised based on the estimated amount if the contingent consideration is probable and can be measured reliably. Any subsequent changes to the amount are treated as an adjustment to the cost of the acquisition.

 
2.7

Current and deferred taxation

The taxation expense represents the aggregate amount of current and deferred tax recognised in the reporting period. Tax is recognised in the Consolidated statement of comprehensive income, except to the extent that it relates to items recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity. In this case, tax is recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity, respectively.

Current tax is recognised on taxable profit for the current and past periods. Current tax is measured at the amounts of tax expected to pay or recover using the tax rates and laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date.

Deferred tax is recognised in respect of all timing differences at the reporting date. Unrelieved tax losses and other deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that they will be recovered against the reversal of deferred tax liabilities or other future taxable profits. Deferred tax is measured using the tax rates and laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting date that are expected to apply to the reversal of the timing difference.

 
2.8

Foreign currency translation

Foreign currency transactions are initially recorded in the functional currency, by applying the spot exchange rate as at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated at the exchange rate ruling at the reporting date, with any gains or losses being taken to the Consolidated statement of comprehensive income. 

 
2.9

Operating leases: the Group as lessee

Lease payments are recognised as an expense over the lease term on a straight-line basis. The aggregate benefit of lease incentives is recognised as a reduction to expense over the lease term, on a straight-line basis.

Page 24

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.10

Negative goodwill

Negative goodwill arising on business combinations in respect of acquisitions is recognised in the Consolidated statement of comprehensive income in the periods in which the non-monetary assets arising on the same acquisition are recovered. Any excess exceeding the fair value of non-monetary assets shall be recognised in the Consolidated statement of comprehensive income in the periods expected to benefit.

 
2.11

Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are initially recorded at cost, and subsequently stated at cost less any accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. 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.

Depreciation is calculated so as to write off the cost or valuation of an asset, less its residual value, over the useful economic life of that asset on a straight line basis as follows:

Leasehold property
-
Over life of lease
Plant and machinery, equipment and other assets
-
10-33% per annum

  
2.12

Impairment of fixed assets

A review for indicators of impairment is carried out at each reporting date, with the recoverable amount being estimated where such indicators exist. Where the carrying value exceeds the recoverable amount, the asset is impaired accordingly. Prior impairments are also reviewed for possible reversal at each reporting date.

For the purposes of impairment testing, when it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, an estimate is made of the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit to which the asset belongs. The cash-generating unit is the smallest identifiable group of assets that includes the asset and generates cash inflows that largely independent of the cash inflows from other assets or groups of assets.

 
2.13

Stocks

Stocks are measured at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell. Cost includes all costs of purchase, costs of conversion and other costs incurred in bringing the stock to its present location and condition.

Work in progress

Work in progress is valued on the basis of direct costs plus attributable labour and overheads based on normal level of activity. Provision is made for any foreseeable losses, where appropriate. No element of profit is included in the valuation of work in progress.

Page 25

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.14

Finance leases and hire purchase contracts

Assets held under finance leases and hire purchase contracts are recognised in the Consolidated balance sheet as assets and liabilities at the lower of the fair value of the assets and the present value of the minimum lease payments, which is determined at the inception of the lease term. Any initial direct costs of the lease are added to the amount recognised as an asset.
      
Lease payments are apportioned between the finance charges and reduction of the outstanding lease liability using the effective interest method. Finance charges are allocated to each period so as to produce a constant rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability.

  
2.15

Provisions

Provisions are recognised when the entity has an obligation at the reporting date as a result of a past event, it is probable that the entity will be required to transfer economic benefits in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be estimated reliably. Provisions are recognised as a liability in the Consolidated balance sheet and the amount of the provision as an expense.

Provisions are initially measured at the best estimate of the amount required to settle the obligation at the reporting date and subsequently reviewed at each reporting date and adjusted to reflect the current best estimate of the amount that would be required to settle the obligation. Any adjustments to the amounts previously recognised are recognised in the Consolidated statement of comprehensive income. When a provision is measured at the present value of the amount expected to be required to settle the obligation, the unwinding of the discount is recognised as a finance cost in profit or loss in the period it arises.

 
2.16

Financial instruments

Financial instruments are classified and accounted for, according to the substance of the contractual arrangement, as either financial assets, financial liabilities or equity instruments. An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the company after deducting all of its liabilities.

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

Financial assets are assessed for indicators of impairment at each reporting date.

Basic financial liabilities, which include trade and other creditors, bank loans and other loans are initially measured at their transaction price after transaction costs. 

Financial liabilities which constitute a financing arrangement, including other loans and other creditors, which do not carry a market rate of interest, are discounted to present value using a market rate of interest for a similar debt instrument, which is amortised over the contractual term of financial liability.

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

Page 26

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.17

Pensions

Contributions to defined contribution pension plans are recognised as an expense in the period in which the related service is provided. Amounts not paid are shown in creditors as a liability in the Consolidated balance sheet.

 
2.18

Interest income

Interest income is recognised in the Consolidated statement of comprehensive income using the effective interest method.

 
2.19

Finance costs

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

 
2.20

Exceptional items

Exceptional items are transactions that fall within the ordinary activities of the Group but are presented separately due to their size or incidence.

  
2.21

Equity instruments

Equity instruments are measured at the fair value of the cash or other resources received or receivable, net of the direct costs of issuing the equity instruments. If payment is deferred and the time value of money is material, the initial measurement is on a present value basis.

 
2.22

Valuation of investments

Investments in subsidiaries are measured at cost less accumulated impairment.

Page 27

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

3.


Judgements in applying accounting policies and key sources of estimation uncertainty

In the application of the Group's accounting policies, which are described in note 2, management is required to make judgements, 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 estimates which have the most significance on the financial statements include the valuation of stock (including labour and overhead absorption and stock provisions), dilapidation provisions and the recognition of deferred tax assets.

Stock provisions are based on an ageing calculation, which utilises the “purchase date” for materials, removing items which have short term demand. Work in progress includes capitalised labour added to the valuation using estimated labour cost on incomplete works orders included as work in progress at the year end. At the balance sheet date, the carrying value of stock totalled £8,571,000 (2023: £13,470,000).

Dilapidation provisions are calculated using management's best estimate of the expected future cost to restore leasehold properties to original condition under the terms of the leasehold property agreements. The amounts recognised as a provision in the financial statements are discounted to present value using discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and risks specific to the liability at the inception of the lease. At the balance sheet date, the value of dilapidation provisions recognised totalled £988,000 (2023:  £977,000).

Deferred tax assets are calculated based on management's best estimate of future taxable profits, which are based on expected results from detailed trading forecasts. At the balance sheet date, the value of deferred tax assets recognised totalled £900,000 (2023: £900,000).

The Directors have assessed the period over which the value of negative goodwill, which has arisen on business combinations, should be recognised in profit or loss. A review of the non-monetary assets which were acquired as part of the business combination, which were tangible fixed assets and stock, has been performed and the Directors have made an appropriate assessment as to the value of non-monetary assets which have been recovered up to the balance sheet date and have calculated the amount of negative goodwill which should be recognised in profit or loss during the year. At the balance sheet date, the carrying value of negative goodwill totalled £4,092,000 (2023: £4,990,000).

Page 28

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

4.


Turnover

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


Year ended
31 December
Period ended
31 December
2024
2023
£000
£000

Sale of goods
55,286
7,737

Sale of services
888
270

Income from research and development
100
320

56,274
8,327


Analysis of turnover by country of destination:

Year ended
31 December
Period ended
31 December
2024
2023
£000
£000

United Kingdom
52,457
7,371

Rest of Europe
900
-

Rest of the world
2,917
956

56,274
8,327



5.


Other operating income

Year ended
31 December
Period ended
31 December
2024
2023
£000
£000

Other operating income
66
20

66
20


Page 29

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

6.


Operating (loss)/profit

The operating profit is stated after charging/(crediting):

Year ended
31 December
Period ended
31 December
2024
2023
£000
£000

Depreciation of tangible fixed assets
1,015
186

Foreign exchange gains
(235)
(134)

Negative goodwill recognised in profit or loss
(898)
(1,472)

Research and development expensed or incurred
-
293

Operating lease rentals
754
197


7.


Auditors' remuneration

During the year, the Group obtained the following services from the Company's auditors:


Year ended
31 December
Period ended
31 December
2024
2023
£000
£000

Fees payable to the Company's auditors for the audit of the consolidated and parent Company's financial statements

10
12

Fees payable to the Company's auditors in respect of:

Audit of subsidiaries
63
58

Other non-audit services
7
10

Page 30

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

8.


Employees

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


Group
Group
Year ended 31 December 2024
Period ended 31 December 2023
£000
£000


Wages and salaries
10,975
1,923

Social security costs
1,112
193

Cost of defined contribution scheme
409
70

12,496
2,186


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


      Year ended
     31 December
     Period ended
      31 December
        2024
        2023
            No.
            No.







Production staff
281
305



Administrative staff
18
21



Sales staff
15
16

314
342

The Company has no employees other than the directors, who did not receive any remuneration.

9.


Key management personnel

During the year amounts paid to key management personnel were as follws


Year ended 31 December 2024
Period ended 31 December 2023
£000
£000



Emoluments
661
104

661
104

Page 31

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

10.


Interest receivable

Year ended
31 December
Period ended
31 December
2024
2023
£000
£000


Interest receivable from group companies
518
104

518
104


11.


Interest payable and similar expenses

Year ended
31 December
Period ended
31 December
2024
2023
£000
£000


Bank interest payable
323
30

Other loan interest payable
702
448

Finance leases and hire purchase contracts
2
-

1,027
478


12.


Taxation


Year ended
31 December
Period ended
31 December
2024
2023
£000
£000

Corporation tax


Current tax on profits for the year
(71)
-

Total current tax
(71)
-

Deferred tax


Origination and reversal of timing differences
-
(900)

Total deferred tax
-
(900)


(71)
(900)
Page 32

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
 
12.Taxation (continued)


Factors affecting tax charge for the year/period

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

Year ended
31 December
Period ended
31 December
2024
2023
£000
£000


(Loss)/profit on ordinary activities before tax
(916)
1,280


(Loss)/profit on ordinary activities multiplied by standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 25% (2023 - 25%)
(229)
320

Effects of:


Expenses not deductible for tax purposes
9
48

Movement in tax losses
354
(900)

Non taxable release of negative goodwill
(224)
(368)

Fixed asset differences
87
-

Other differences
3
-

Research and development tax credit
(71)
-

Total tax charge for the year/period
(71)
(900)


Factors that may affect future tax charges

The Group has an unrecognised deferred tax asset as at 31 December 2024 of £2,712,000 (2023: £5,579,000). The directors have considered the future taxable profits and have recognised a deferred asset to the extent that this is expected to be recovered in future years.

Page 33

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

13.


Exceptional items

Year ended
31 December
Period ended
31 December
2024
2023
£000
£000


Impairment of intercompany loans
1,007
-

Restructuring costs
498
240

Settlement agreement
75
-

1,580
240

At 31 December 2024, the Group was owed £1,007,000 by a fellow group undertaking based overseas. This undertaking ceased trading in September 2024 and entered into a liquidation process on 2 December 2024. As a consequence of which, the directors have concluded that an impairment provision of £1,007,000 should be made to reflect the risk that the amount due will not be recovered.

Restructuring costs include costs associated with the on-going restructure of the Group as part of the turnaround plan for the Group.

The Group agreed to a commercial settlement agreement with a customer in relation to a dispute which arose during the financial year and costs associated with this are included in exceptional costs.


14.


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/period was £146,000 (2023: £nil)

Page 34

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

15.


Intangible assets

Group 





Negative goodwill

£000



Cost


At 1 January 2024
(6,462)



At 31 December 2024

(6,462)



Amortisation


At 1 January 2024
(1,472)


Recognised in profit or loss during the year
(898)



At 31 December 2024

(2,370)



Net book value



At 31 December 2024
(4,092)



At 31 December 2023
(4,990)



Page 35

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

16.


Tangible fixed assets

Group



Short-term leasehold property
Plant and machinery, equipment and other assets
Total

£000
£000
£000



Cost 


At 1 January 2024
206
2,625
2,831


Additions
-
339
339



At 31 December 2024

206
2,964
3,170



Depreciation


At 1 January 2024
9
177
186


Charge for the year
48
967
1,015



At 31 December 2024

57
1,144
1,201



Net book value



At 31 December 2024
149
1,820
1,969



At 31 December 2023
197
2,448
2,645

Included in the net book value of plant and machinery, equipment and other assets is £1,000 (2023:  £17,000) in respect of assets held under finance lease and hire purchase contracts. Depreciation for the period on these costs totalled £16,000 (2023: £6,000).

Page 36

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

17.


Fixed asset investments

Company





Investments in subsidiary companies

£000



Cost 


At 1 January 2024
2,688



At 31 December 2024
2,688






Net book value



At 31 December 2024
2,688



At 31 December 2023
2,688


Direct subsidiary undertaking


The following was a direct subsidiary undertaking of the Company:

Name

Registered office

Class of shares

Holding

Clifton 2025 Limited (formerly STI Enterprises Limited)
1
Ordinary
100%

1 - 4th Floor, 24 Old Bond Street, London, W1S 4AW.

Page 37

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 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

Registered office

Class of shares

Holding

Surface Technology International Limited
1
Ordinary
100%
Surface Technology International Philippines Inc.
2
Ordinary
100%

1 - 4th Floor, 24 Old Bond Street, London, W1S 4AW.

2 - 3rd Ave. Block C-5, MEZ I, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.

As noted in note 2.2, these financial statements do not include the consolidation of Surface Technology International Philippines Inc.

On 2 December 2024, the Group's subsidiary undertaking, Surface Technology International Philippines Inc. entered into a liquidation process and was subsequently liquidated on 3 February 2025.


18.


Stocks

Group
Group
2024
2023
£000
£000

Raw materials and consumables
4,592
9,304

Work in progress
3,979
4,166

8,571
13,470


Raw materials and consumables include gross stocks of £13,512,000 (2023: £17,611,000) with a stock provision of £4,941,000 (2023: £4,141,000).

The Company has no stock.

Page 38

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

19.


Debtors

Group
Group
Company
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£000
£000
£000
£000


Trade debtors
12,051
8,741
-
-

Other debtors
205
253
35
35

Prepayments and accrued income
1,069
1,030
-
-

Deferred tax asset
900
900
-
-

14,225
10,924
35
35


Trade debtors are stated net of a bad debt provision of £nil (2023: £95,000).


20.


Cash and cash equivalents

Group
Group
2024
2023
£000
£000

Cash at bank and in hand
1,284
1,283

1,284
1,283


The Company has no cash at bank or in hand.

Page 39

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

21.


Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year

Group
Group
Company
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£000
£000
£000
£000

Bank loans
108
-
-
-

Other loans
2,658
-
-
-

Trade creditors
4,944
10,025
-
-

Amounts owed to group undertakings
378
50
210
210

Other taxation and social security
467
1,351
-
-

Obligations under finance lease and hire purchase contracts
6
14
-
-

Other creditors
6,165
22
2,500
-

Accruals and deferred income
4,726
3,915
146
-

19,452
15,377
2,856
210


Bank loans are secured by fixed and floating charges over the assets of the Group.

Other loans are secured by debenture over the assets of the Company and Group.

Obligations under finance leases and hire purchase contracts are secured over the assets to which they relate.

Included in other creditors is £3,665,000 (2023: £nil) in respect of the Group’s invoice discounting facilities. These facilities are secured by fixed and floating charges over the assets of the Group.


22.


Creditors: Amounts falling due after more than one year

Group
Group
Company
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£000
£000
£000
£000

Bank loans
340
-
-
-

Other loans
739
3,189
13
13

Obligations under finance leases and hire purchase contracts
3
9
-
-

Other creditors
-
2,500
-
2,500

1,082
5,698
13
2,513


Bank loans are secured by fixed and floating charges over the assets of the Group.

Other loans are secured by debenture over the assets of the Company and Group.

Obligations under finance leases and hire purchase contracts are secured over the assets to which they relate.


Page 40

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

23.


Loans


Analysis of the maturity of loans is given below:


Group
Group
Company
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£000
£000
£000
£000

Amounts falling due within one year

Bank loans
108
-
-
-

Other loans
2,658
-
-
-


2,766
-
-
-

Amounts falling due 1-2 years

Bank loans
108
-
-
-

Other loans
-
2,545
-
-


108
2,545
-
-

Amounts falling due 2-5 years

Bank loans
233
-
-
-

Other loans
739
-
13
-


972
-
13
-

Amounts falling due after more than 5 years

Other loans
-
644
-
13

3,846
3,189
13
13



24.


Hire purchase and finance leases


Minimum lease payments under hire purchase fall due as follows:

Group
Group
2024
2023
£000
£000

Within one year
6
14

Between 1-5 years
3
9

9
23

Page 41

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

25.


Financial instruments

Group
Group
Company
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£000
£000
£000
£000

Financial assets

Financial assets measured at fair value through profit or loss
1,284
1,283
-
-

Financial assets measured at amortised cost
12,256
8,994
35
35

13,540
10,277
35
35


Financial liabilities

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost
15,341
15,809
2,723
2,723


Financial assets measured at fair value through profit or loss comprise cash at bank.


Financial assets measured at amortised cost comprise trade and other debtors.


Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost comprise trade creditors, amounts owed to group undertakings, obligations under finance lease and hire purchase contracts, other creditors, bank loans and other loans.

Page 42

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

26.


Deferred taxation


Group



2024


£000






At beginning of period
900



At end of period
900







Group
Group
2024
2023
£000
£000

Accelerated capital allowances
(141)
(141)

Tax losses carried forward
1,041
1,041

900
900


27.


Provisions


Group



Dilapidations

£000





At 1 January 2024
977


Charged to profit or loss
11



At 31 December 2024
988

Page 43

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

28.


Share capital

2024
2023
£000
£000
Authorised, allotted, called up and fully paid



20,000 (2023 - 20,000) A Ordinary shares of £0.0001 each
-
-



29.


Reserves

Profit and loss account

This reserve records all current and prior period retained profits and losses.


30.


Contingent liabilities

The Company has given a cross-guarantee in relation to borrowings entered into by its subsidiaries, Surface Technology International Limited ("STIL"), STI Enterprises Limited ("STIEL") and Surface Technology International Philippines Inc ("STIP"). The value of the amounts guaranteed at 31 December 2024 by entity amounted to £218,000 (2023: £218,000) for STIEL, £772,000 (2023: £705,000) for STIL and £nil (2023: £nil) for STIP.


31.


Pension commitments

The Group operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the Group in an independently administrated fund. The pension charge for the year ended 31 December 2024 totalled £409,000 (period ended 31 December 2023: £70,000). Contributions amounting to £65,000 (2023: £67,000) were payable to the fund at the period end and are included in creditors.


32.


Commitments under operating leases

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


Group
Group
2024
2023
£000
£000

Not later than 1 year
769
583

Later than 1 year and not later than 5 years
2,797
1,686

Later than 5 years
519
821

4,085
3,090

Page 44

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

33.


Related party transactions

The Company has taken advantage of the exemption, as permitted by section 33.1A of Financial Reporting 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard as applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland", not to dislcose transactions with wholly owned subsidiaries of the Group.

Included in other loans due after more than one year is a loan from a company under common control with a principal amount outstanding of £13,000 (2023: £13,000) for the Company and £1,003,000 (2023: £936,000) for the Group. This loan carries an interest rate which is either the higher of 6% above the base rate of Barclays Bank plc or 10% and is repayable in full on 29 October 2029. The loan is secured by debenture over the assets of the Company and Group. The value of the loan recognised in the financial statements is £739,000 (2023: £644,000), which is the principal amount outstanding net of the remaining £264,000 (2023: £291,000) of unamortised loan arrangement fees which have been capitalised and are being released over the term of the loan.

During the year, the Group incurred management fees from a company under common control totalling £306,000 (2023: £50,000). The Group also recharged fees of £134,000 (2023: £nil) and incurred costs for consultancy services of £97,000 (2023: £nil). At the balance sheet date, amounts owed to this company totalled £33,000 (2023: £57,000).

During the year, the Group incurred company secretarial services from a company under common control totalling £5,000 (2023: £nil). At the balance sheet date, the amount outstanding was £nil (2023: £nil).

During the year, the Group received corporation tax services from a company under common control totalling £19,000 (2023: £nil). At the balance sheet date, the amount outstanding was £nil (2023: £nil).

During the year, the Group recognised an impairment loss in respect of amounts owed by Surface Technology International Philippines Inc. totalling £1,007,000. The directors have reviewed the recoverability of this balance and have concluded that an impairment provision is required as a result of this subsidiary entering into liquidation on 2 December 2024 and therefore the recoverability of the amounts owed is uncertain.

Page 45

 
STI ENTERPRISES HOLDINGS LIMITED (FORMERLY SAND 2023 LIMITED)
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

34.


Post balance sheet events

On 3 February 2025, the Group's subsidiary undertaking Surface Technology International Philippines Inc. was liquidated.

On 10 September 2025, the Company issued 1,858 B1 Ordinary Shares, 2,157 B2 Ordinary Shares, 2,117 B3 Ordinary Shares, each with a nominal value of £0.0001 each. Total consideration paid for these shares totalled £94.

On 13 October  2025, the Company issued 1,166 B2 Ordinary Shares, 1,412 B3 Ordinary Shares, 1,662 B4 Ordinary Shares, each with a nominal value of £0.0001 each. Total consideration paid for these shares totalled £22.

In December 2025, the Company and its Group undertook a reorganisation as disclosed below:

On 16 December 2025, the Company entered into the following transactions:

Assets totalling £370,000 and liabilities totalling £370,000 were transferred to the Company from its immediate subsidiary undertaking, STI Enterprises Limited.
The Company provided a capital contribution of £25,000 to its subsidiary undertaking STI Enterprises Limited.

On 17 December 2025, the Company received a dividend in specie pursuant to which the Company acquired 100% of the Share Capital in Surface Technology International Limited.

On 17 December 2025, the Company transferred its entire shareholding in STI Enterprises Limited to Hogarth 2025 Limited.

On 16 December 2025, the Company became a guarantor in relation to amounts owed by a subsidiary undertaking on its working capital and long-term loan facilities.

On 19 March 2026 Note UK Holding Limited acquired 100% of the Ordinary Share Capital of the Company. On the same date, Note AB, a company publicly listed on the Swedish stock exchange, became the ultimate parent undertaking.

On 20 March 2026, the Company’s ultimate parent undertaking settled outstanding bank loans, working capital facilities and other loans, funded with cash, and these amounts remain outstanding as amounts due to group undertakings, which are interest free and repayable on demand. 


35.


Controlling party

As at 31 December 2024, the Company’s parent undertaking was Rcapital Limited, a company incorporated in England and Wales, United Kingdom, which has a registered office address of 4th Floor, 24 Old Bond Street, London, W1S 4AW.

As of the date of approval of these financial statements, the Company’s immediate parent undertaking is Note UK Holding Limited, a company incorporated in England and Wales, which has a registered office address of 1a Alma Road, Windsor, Berkshire, United Kingdom, SL4 3HU. The ultimate parent undertaking is Note AB, a company incorporated in Sweden.

Page 46