Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of acquiring a business over the fair value of its separable net assets at the date of acquisition. Goodwill is recognised as an intangible asset and is measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and impairment losses.
The directors have reviewed the nature of the acquisition and the long-term economic benefits expected to arise from customer relationships, brand strength and commercial contracts. Based on this assessment, the directors consider that the economic consumption of goodwill will begin from the next financial period and that a useful economic life of 20 years is appropriate once amortisation commences.
Accordingly, goodwill has not been amortised in the current financial year. This reflects a change in accounting estimate arising from the adoption of FRS 102 Section 1A, and the change has been applied prospectively. Prior-year comparatives have not been restated.
The directors actively review goodwill for indicators of impairment at each reporting date. As at the date of approval of these financial statements, no impairment has been identified.