Caseware UK (AP4) 2024.0.164 2024.0.164 2026-05-262026-05-262026-05-26Insurance brokers2024-11-01false66false69truefalse 07623634 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 2023-11-01 2024-10-31 07623634 2025-10-31 07623634 2024-10-31 07623634 2023-11-01 07623634 1 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 1 2023-11-01 2024-10-31 07623634 5 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 5 2023-11-01 2024-10-31 07623634 6 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 6 2023-11-01 2024-10-31 07623634 1 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 d:Exceptional 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 d:Exceptional 2023-11-01 2024-10-31 07623634 e:CompanySecretary1 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 e:Director1 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 e:Director2 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 e:Director3 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 e:Director3 2025-10-31 07623634 e:RegisteredOffice 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 d:Buildings d:LongLeaseholdAssets 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 d:Buildings d:LongLeaseholdAssets 2025-10-31 07623634 d:Buildings d:LongLeaseholdAssets 2024-10-31 07623634 d:FurnitureFittings 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 d:FurnitureFittings 2025-10-31 07623634 d:FurnitureFittings 2024-10-31 07623634 d:FurnitureFittings d:OwnedOrFreeholdAssets 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 d:ComputerEquipment 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 d:ComputerEquipment 2025-10-31 07623634 d:ComputerEquipment 2024-10-31 07623634 d:ComputerEquipment d:OwnedOrFreeholdAssets 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 d:OwnedOrFreeholdAssets 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 d:DevelopmentCostsCapitalisedDevelopmentExpenditure 2025-10-31 07623634 d:DevelopmentCostsCapitalisedDevelopmentExpenditure 2024-10-31 07623634 d:CopyrightsPatentsTrademarksServiceOperatingRights 2025-10-31 07623634 d:CopyrightsPatentsTrademarksServiceOperatingRights 2024-10-31 07623634 d:CurrentFinancialInstruments 2025-10-31 07623634 d:CurrentFinancialInstruments 2024-10-31 07623634 d:CurrentFinancialInstruments d:WithinOneYear 2025-10-31 07623634 d:CurrentFinancialInstruments d:WithinOneYear 2024-10-31 07623634 d:ReportableOperatingSegment1 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 d:ReportableOperatingSegment1 2023-11-01 2024-10-31 07623634 d:ReportableOperatingSegment2 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 d:ReportableOperatingSegment2 2023-11-01 2024-10-31 07623634 d:ShareCapital 2025-10-31 07623634 d:ShareCapital 2024-10-31 07623634 d:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 d:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses 2025-10-31 07623634 d:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses 2023-11-01 2024-10-31 07623634 d:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses 2024-10-31 07623634 d:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses 2023-11-01 07623634 d:AcceleratedTaxDepreciationDeferredTax 2025-10-31 07623634 d:AcceleratedTaxDepreciationDeferredTax 2024-10-31 07623634 d:TaxLossesCarry-forwardsDeferredTax 2025-10-31 07623634 d:TaxLossesCarry-forwardsDeferredTax 2024-10-31 07623634 d:RetirementBenefitObligationsDeferredTax 2025-10-31 07623634 d:RetirementBenefitObligationsDeferredTax 2024-10-31 07623634 e:OrdinaryShareClass1 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 e:OrdinaryShareClass1 2025-10-31 07623634 e:OrdinaryShareClass1 2024-10-31 07623634 e:FRS102 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 e:Audited 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 e:FullAccounts 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 e:PrivateLimitedCompanyLtd 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 d:WithinOneYear 2025-10-31 07623634 d:WithinOneYear 2024-10-31 07623634 d:BetweenOneFiveYears 2025-10-31 07623634 d:BetweenOneFiveYears 2024-10-31 07623634 d:MoreThanFiveYears 2025-10-31 07623634 d:MoreThanFiveYears 2024-10-31 07623634 4 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 d:DevelopmentCostsCapitalisedDevelopmentExpenditure d:OwnedIntangibleAssets 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 d:CopyrightsPatentsTrademarksServiceOperatingRights d:OwnedIntangibleAssets 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 07623634 f:PoundSterling 2024-11-01 2025-10-31 xbrli:shares iso4217:GBP xbrli:pure

Registered number: 07623634









Principal Insurance Limited









Annual Report and Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
Company Information


Directors
D E Bowcock 
M Musial 
S M Titterington (appointed 1 January 2026)




Company secretary
S M Titterington



Registered number
07623634



Registered office
Citygate 2
Cross Street

Sale

Cheshire

M33 7JR




Independent auditors
Hurst Accountants Limited
Chartered Accountants & Statutory Auditors

3 Stockport Exchange

Stockport

Cheshire

SK1 3GG





 
Principal Insurance Limited
 

Contents



Page
Strategic Report
 
1 - 2
Directors' Report
 
3 - 4
Independent Auditors' Report
 
5 - 8
Statement of Income and Retained Earnings
 
9
Balance Sheet
 
10
Statement of Cash Flows
 
11
Analysis of Net Debt
 
12
Notes to the Financial Statements
 
13 - 28


 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
Strategic Report
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

Introduction
 
The directors present their Strategic Report for the year ended 31 October 2025.

Principal Insurance is an independent intermediary providing general insurance services for clients. It operates across the motor sector, including motorcycles, motorhomes, couriers, fleet, van and car insurance. Income is derived primarily from commission from the insurers as policies are placed; fees from clients upon inception, renewal, Mid-term adjustments ("MTA") or cancellation; and premium finance income in the form of overriders when policies are paid in instalments. 

Business review and financial key performance indicators
 
Despite very difficult market conditions resulting in multiple competitors struggling, the Company managed to improve its performance in comparison to the previous year.

Income has increased by 4% to £6.95m. Commission and fees were up slightly, as were overriders due from premium finance providers. 

Costs were also significantly higher with salaries being the main driving factor (10% higher). Other expenses were £29k higher due to an increased level of legal costs linked to various portfolio acquisition deals. 

Bad debts are a significant cost to the business also, which is commonplace for our sector - various issues such as fraud, cancellations and debtor failure contribute to the figure. During the year, the Company moved all of its Premium Finance arrangements from a "non-recourse" model, whereby the providers would be liable for any unpaid debts, to a "recourse" model. Despite this, bad debts actually decreased £38k in the current year to £760k.

The resulting EBITDA for the business was £710k, a 15% increase on that of the prior year (
£618k). Whilst this is behind budget, the results are ahead of the prior year and should be celebrated. 

On 31 October 2025, the Company acquired the book of Peart Performance Marque Limited (in administration). The Company is to handle the activity of this going forward.

Following the year end, on 24 March 2026, the company's parent entity, Principal Group Holdings Limited, acquired the entire share capital of Europa Group Limited and Europa Underwriting Limited. These entities will form part of the group going forward.

Page 1

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 

Strategic Report (continued)
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

Principal risks and uncertainties
 
The company has presented its most significant risks below:

Liquidity and cash flow risk
It is important for the Company to manage its cash flows to enable payments to insurers, employees and other suppliers. All insurance monies pass through a specific bank account, and all commissions are extracted from here as they fall due, ensuring that all insurers will be paid promptly. The company also maintains a close relationship with its bank and keeps them informed of expected future cash flows. Debtors are managed carefully and chased where they fall overdue. The Company has a policy of writing off all debts greater than 60 days old. 

Concentration risk
The last two years have seen a significant uplift in the motorhome insurance product, but it is predominantly based with one insurer, which increases exposure to price changes or restriction of underwriting footprint. Management are frequently discussing plans with the insurer in question to be able to best plan ahead for any impending changes.

Competition risk
The van insurance market is very competitive and the Company currently lacks any significant market differentiator allowing it to increase its market share. Management are currently considering options to address this issue. 

Regulatory risk
The Company abides by the rules of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Some months ago, the FCA started their review of the premium finance market with the aim to provide better value for customers. Management is aware that the FCA is actively monitoring the situation and may at some point want to impose restrictions on lending. Management is watching this closely and planning for potential restrictions.


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



M Musial
Director

Date: 26 May 2026

Page 2

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Directors' Report
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

The directors present their report and the financial statements for the year ended 31 October 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;

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 £812,113 (2024 - £697,137).

No dividends were paid during the year (2024: £Nil). The directors do not recommend the payment of a final dividend.

Directors

The directors who served during the year were:

D E Bowcock 
M Musial 

Future developments

Whilst 2024/2025 EBITDA increased, the overall budget has not been achieved. This was linked to a number of issues around main insurers, increased market competition and slower than expected development of digital trading.

To maintain sustainable growth and ensure 2026 numbers are achievable, we have budgeted based on 2025 actuals, with some assumptions regarding wages, deals in the pipeline and retention rates. As a result, we anticipate steady growth on income, EBITDA and profit in 2026.

Page 3

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Directors' Report (continued)
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

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'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's auditors are aware of that information.

Post balance sheet events

On 24 November 2025, the board approved the grant of further EMI options over B Ordinary Shares in the parent company to selected employees under the company’s existing EMI share option plan. The options were granted over a total of 30,817 B Ordinary Shares of £0.001 each.

On 24 March 2026, the company's parent entity, Principal Group Holdings Limited, acquired the entire share capital of Europa Group Limited and Europa Underwriting Limited. These entities will form part of the group going forward.

Auditors

The auditors, Hurst Accountants Limited, were appointed in the year and 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.
 





M Musial
Director

Date: 26 May 2026

Page 4

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Independent Auditors' Report to the Members of Principal Insurance Limited
 

Opinion


We have audited the financial statements of Principal Insurance Limited (the 'Company') for the year ended 31 October 2025, which comprise the Statement of Income and Retained Earnings, the Analysis of Net Debt, the Balance Sheet, the Statement of Cash Flows 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 October 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 Auditors' 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.


Other information


The other information comprises the information included in the Annual Report other than the financial statements and our Auditors' 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.


Page 5

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Independent Auditors' Report to the Members of Principal Insurance Limited (continued)


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.


Responsibilities of directors
 

As explained more fully in the Directors' Responsibilities Statement set out on page 3, 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.


Page 6

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Independent Auditors' Report to the Members of Principal Insurance Limited (continued)


Auditors' 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 Auditors' 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:

Identifying and assessing potential risks related to irregularities

In identifying and assessing the risks of material misstatement in respect of irregularities, including fraud and non-compliance with laws and regulations, we considered the following:

• The nature of the industry and sector in which the company operates; the control environment and business     performance including key drivers for directors' remuneration, bonus levels and performance targets.
• The outcome of enquiries of local management and parent company management, including whether management    was aware of any instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations, and whether management had knowledge   of any actual, suspected, or alleged fraud. 
• Supporting documentation relating to the Company's policies and procedures for:
    - Identifying, evaluating, and complying with laws and regulations
    - Detecting and responding to the risks of fraud
• The internal controls established to mitigate risks related to fraud or non-compliance with laws and regulations.
• The outcome of discussions amongst the engagement team regarding how and where fraud might occur in the    financial statements and any potential indicators of fraud.
• The legal and regulatory framework in which the Company operates, particularly those laws and regulations which    have a direct effect on the financial statements, such as the Companies Act 2006, pensions and tax legislation, and    the Financial Conduct Authority ("FCA") Regulations, or those which had a fundamental effect on the operations of   the Company, including General Data Protection requirements, and Anti-bribery and Corruption.

Audit response to risks identified

Our procedures to respond to the risks identified included the following:

• Reviewing the financial statements disclosures and testing to supporting documentation to assess compliance with    the provisions of those relevant laws and regulations which have a direct effect on the financial statements.
• Discussions with management, including consideration of known or suspected instances of non-compliance with    laws and regulations and fraud.
• Evaluation of the operating effectiveness of management’s controls designed to prevent and detect irregularities.
• Enquiring of management about any actual and potential litigation and claims.
• Performing analytical procedures to identify any unusual or unexpected relationships which may indicate risks of    material misstatement due to fraud.
 
Page 7

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Independent Auditors' Report to the Members of Principal Insurance Limited (continued)


We have also considered the risk of fraud through management override of controls by:

• Testing the appropriateness of journal entries and other adjustments;
• Challenging assumptions made by management in their significant accounting estimates, and assessing whether the    judgements made in making accounting estimates are indicative of a potential bias; and
• Evaluating the business rationale of any significant transactions that are unusual or outside the normal course of    business.

We also communicated relevant identified laws and regulations and potential fraud risks to all engagement team members and remained alert to any indications of fraud or non-compliance with laws and regulations throughout the audit.

There are inherent limitations in the audit procedures described above, and the further removed non-compliance with laws and regulations are from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, the less likely we would become aware of them.  Also, the risk of not detecting a material misstatement due to fraud is higher than the risk of not detecting one resulting from error, as fraud may involve deliberate concealment by, for example, forgery or intentional misrepresentations, or through collusion.


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 Auditors' Report.


Other matters 
 

The comparative figures have not been audited, as no audit was required under the provisions of the Companies Act 2006.


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 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.





Helen Besant-Roberts (Senior Statutory Auditor)
for and on behalf of
Hurst Accountants Limited
Chartered Accountants
Statutory Auditors
3 Stockport Exchange
Stockport
Cheshire
SK1 3GG

26 May 2026
Page 8

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
Statement of Income and Retained Earnings
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

2025
Unaudited
2024
Note
£
£

  

Turnover
 4 
6,952,365
6,657,518

Cost of sales
  
(1,813,467)
(1,885,114)

Gross profit
  
5,138,898
4,772,404

Administrative expenses
  
(3,986,916)
(3,692,442)

Exceptional administrative expenses
 12 
(782,138)
(816,890)

Other operating income
 5 
315,323
320,458

Operating profit
 6 
685,167
583,530

Interest payable and similar expenses
 10 
(2,738)
(1,958)

Profit before tax
  
682,429
581,572

Tax on profit
 11 
129,684
115,565

Profit after tax
  
812,113
697,137

  

  

Retained earnings at the beginning of the year
  
(497,311)
(1,194,448)

Profit for the year
  
812,113
697,137

Retained earnings at the end of the year
  
314,802
(497,311)
The notes on pages 13 to 28 form part of these financial statements.

Page 9

 
Principal Insurance Limited
Registered number: 07623634

Balance Sheet
As at 31 October 2025

2025
Unaudited
2024
Note
£
£

Fixed assets
  

Intangible assets
 13 
-
517

Tangible assets
 14 
10,174
7,621

  
10,174
8,138

Current assets
  

Debtors: amounts falling due within one year
 15 
4,372,545
3,569,047

Cash at bank and in hand
 16 
1,935,422
2,225,591

  
6,307,967
5,794,638

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
 17 
(2,553,338)
(2,850,086)

Net current assets
  
 
 
3,754,629
 
 
2,944,552

  

Net assets
  
3,764,803
2,952,690


Capital and reserves
  

Called up share capital 
 19 
3,450,001
3,450,001

Profit and loss account
 20 
314,802
(497,311)

  
3,764,803
2,952,690


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




M Musial
Director

Date: 26 May 2026

The notes on pages 13 to 28 form part of these financial statements.

Page 10

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 

Statement of Cash Flows
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

2025
Unaudited
2024
£
£

Cash flows from operating activities

Profit for the financial year
812,113
697,137

Adjustments for:

Amortisation of intangible assets
517
10,289

Depreciation of tangible assets
5,159
7,333

Interest paid
2,738
1,958

Taxation credit
(129,684)
(115,565)

Decrease/(increase) in debtors
274,509
(425,601)

(Increase) in amounts owed by groups
(5,323)
(168,458)

(Decrease)/increase in creditors
(296,748)
813,079

Net cash generated from operating activities

663,281
820,172


Cash flows from investing activities

Purchase of tangible fixed assets
(7,712)
(5,664)

Net cash from investing activities

(7,712)
(5,664)

Cash flows from financing activities

Amounts paid on behalf of parent company
(943,000)
-

Interest paid
(2,738)
(1,958)

Net cash used in financing activities
(945,738)
(1,958)

Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents
(290,169)
812,550

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
2,225,591
1,413,041

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of year
1,935,422
2,225,591


Cash and cash equivalents at the end of year comprise:

Cash at bank and in hand
1,935,422
2,225,591

1,935,422
2,225,591


The notes on pages 13 to 28 form part of these financial statements.

Page 11

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 

Analysis of Net Debt
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025




Unaudited
At 1 November 2024
Cash flows
At 31 October 2025
£

£

£

Cash at bank and in hand

2,225,591

(290,169)

1,935,422


2,225,591
(290,169)
1,935,422

The notes on pages 13 to 28 form part of these financial statements.

Page 12

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

1.


General information

The company is limited by shares, incorporated in the United Kingdom.  The company's registered office address is Citygate, 2 Cross Street, Sale, Cheshire, United Kingdom, M33 7JR.

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 company has made a profit in the year of £812,113 and now has net assets of £3,764,803, including £2,719,072 due from its ultimate parent company.

The ultimate parent company has net liabilities of £631,176 (
2024: £631,176) which includes £2,000,939 (2024: £2,943,939) owing to a shareholder. Management has received a letter of support from the shareholder confirming that this balance will not be recalled to a point which would cause the company to be unable to repay its debts as they fall due.

As a result, it is appropriate to prepare these financial statements on a going concern basis. 

 
2.3

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:

Rendering of services

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

Commission revenue receivable from insurers, and any associated over-rider income receivable from premium finance companies, is recognised upon the inception of policies.

Page 13

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.4

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.

Benefits received and receivable as an incentive to sign an operating lease are recognised on a straight-line basis over the lease term, unless another systematic basis is representative of the time pattern of the lessee's benefit from the use of the leased asset.

 
2.5

Research and development

In the research phase of an internal project it is not possible to demonstrate that the project will generate future economic benefits and hence all expenditure on research shall be recognised as an expense when it is incurred. Intangible assets are recognised from the development phase of a project if and only if certain specific criteria are met in order to demonstrate the asset will generate probable future economic benefits and that its cost can be reliably measured. The capitalised development costs are subsequently amortised on a straight-line basis over their useful economic lives, which range from 3 to 6 years.

If it is not possible to distinguish between the research phase and the development phase of an internal project, the expenditure is treated as if it were all incurred in the research phase only.

 
2.6

Finance costs

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

 
2.7

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.

Page 14

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.8

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.


 
2.9

Exceptional items

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

 
2.10

Intangible assets

Intangible assets are initially recognised at cost. After recognition, under the cost model, intangible assets are measured at cost less any accumulated amortisation and any accumulated impairment losses.

All intangible assets are considered to have a finite useful life. If a reliable estimate of the useful life cannot be made, the useful life shall not exceed ten years.

 
2.11

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.

Page 15

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

2.Accounting policies (continued)


2.11
Tangible fixed assets (continued)

Depreciation is charged so as to allocate the cost of assets less their residual value over their estimated useful lives, using the straight-line method.

Depreciation is provided on the following basis:

Long-term leasehold property
-
20% straight line
Fixtures and fittings
-
20% straight line
Computer equipment
-
33% straight line

The assets' residual values, useful lives and depreciation methods are reviewed, and adjusted prospectively if appropriate, or if there is an indication of a significant change since the last reporting date.

Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing the proceeds with the carrying amount and are recognised in profit or loss.

 
2.12

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 16

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 31 October 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.

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

Basic financial assets

Basic financial assets, which include 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.

Impairment of financial assets

At the end of each reporting period financial assets measured at amortised cost are assessed for objective evidence of impairment. If an asset is impaired the impairment loss is the difference between the carrying amount and the present value of the estimated cash flows discounted at the asset’s original effective interest rate. The impairment loss is recognised in profit or loss. 

Financial assets are impaired when events, subsequent to their initial recognition, indicate the estimated future cash flows derived from the financial asset(s) have been adversely impacted. The impairment loss will be the difference between the current carrying amount and the present value of the future cash flows at the asset(s) original effective interest rate.

If there is a favourable change in relation to the events surrounding the impairment loss then the impairment can be reviewed for possible reversal. The reversal will not cause the current carrying amount to exceed the original carrying amount had the impairment not been recognised. The impairment reversal is recognised in the profit or loss.

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.

Page 17

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

2.Accounting policies (continued)


2.16
Financial instruments (continued)

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.

Derecognition of financial instruments

Derecognition of financial assets

Financial assets are derecognised when their contractual right to future cash flow expire, or are settled, or when the Company transfers the asset and substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to another party. If significant risks and rewards of ownership are retained after the transfer to another party, then the Company will continue to recognise the value of the portion of the risks and rewards retained.

Derecognition of financial liabilities

Financial liabilities are derecognised when the Company's contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.

Page 18

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

3.


Judgements in applying accounting policies and key sources of estimation uncertainty

In the application of the Company's accounting policies, the directors are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources.

The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised 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 most significant judgements and estimates affecting the Company's financial statements are outlined below:

Debtor provisions
Management regularly review the ageing of the Company's debtors and make appropriate provisions where recovery is considered doubtful. Most commonly, this arises from the default of, or cancellation by, policyholders who are paying via premium credit. The Company is able to make a partial reclaim from the insurer to reduce its liability to the Premium finance company in the event of such defaults. 

During the year, amounts of £782k (
2024: £817k) were impaired based on actual defaults, as disclosed in note 12. Following a review of impairments of debtors held at the balance sheet date, management have deemed that further provisions to account for potential cancellations and defaults would be immaterial. 

Adjustment for effective dates, cancellations and cooling off periods
Under FRS 102, income relating to insurance policies incepted should be recognised at the effective date the policy goes live, rather than the date the policy is taken out (which is how the Company's accounting system reports transactions, as required to enable insurers to be paid promptly). Following a comparison between inception and effective dates, management have deemed that such an adjustment is not necessary on the grounds of materiality.

In some cases, policies are cancelled during the term of cover, and as premium finance is on a recourse agreement, there is a risk that some of this commission will be clawed back. Following a review of cancellations, management have deemed that no adjustment is necessary on the grounds of materiality.

Under UK law, policyholders have 14 days to cancel a policy after it becomes effective. Following a review of such cancellations, management have deemed that such an adjustment is not necessary on the grounds of materiality. 

Provisions for payments due to insurers
The company operates a delegated scheme with an insurance provider, whereby they must ensure an appropriate claims ratio is not breached. Should this occur, the Company would need to make a payment to the insurer. 

At the year end, a provision of £40k (
2024: £36k) was recognised in these financial statements in relation to this delegated scheme.

Deferred tax
The company has significant taxable losses available to utilise in future years which would give rise to a deferred tax asset. As the group does not have full sight of the future outlook in the insurance market, the amount of deferred tax asset recognised is restricted to anticipated profits over the next two years.

At the year end, deferred tax relating to losses carried forward totalled £948k (
2024: £1,122k), of which £400k (2024: £268k) was recognised as a deferred tax asset.

Page 19

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

4.


Turnover

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


2025
Unaudited
2024
£
£

Income relating to insurance broking activity
5,196,534
5,054,079

Class 2
1,755,831
1,603,439


All turnover arose within the United Kingdom.


5.


Other operating income

2025
Unaudited
2024
£
£

Management recharges
315,323
320,458



6.


Operating profit

The operating profit is stated after charging:

2025
Unaudited
2024
£
£

Other operating lease rentals
142,247
140,515


7.


Auditors' remuneration

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


2025
Unaudited
2024
£
£

Fees payable to the Company's auditors for the audit of the Company's financial statements
12,000
-


There was no audit conducted in the prior year.




Page 20

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

8.


Employees

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


2025
Unaudited
2024
£
£

Wages and salaries
2,504,768
2,295,947

Social security costs
294,097
249,946

Cost of defined contribution scheme
74,478
67,410

2,873,343
2,613,303


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


        2025
   Unaudited
2024
            No.
            No.







Employees
69
66


9.


Directors' remuneration

2025
Unaudited
2024
£
£

Directors' emoluments
312,297
329,749

Company contributions to defined contribution pension schemes
17,250
14,750

329,547
344,499


During the year retirement benefits were accruing to 2 directors (2024 - 2) in respect of defined contribution pension schemes.

The highest paid director received remuneration of £196,591 (2024 - £211,962).

The value of the Company's contributions paid to a defined contribution pension scheme in respect of the highest paid director amounted to £12,250 (2024 - £9,750).


10.


Interest payable and similar expenses

2025
Unaudited
2024
£
£


Bank interest payable
2,738
1,958

Page 21

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

11.


Taxation


2025
Unaudited
2024
£
£



Total current tax
-
-

Deferred tax


Origination and reversal of timing differences
(129,684)
(128,588)

Adjustments in respect of prior periods
-
13,023

Total deferred tax
(129,684)
(115,565)


Tax on profit
(129,684)
(115,565)

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
Unaudited
2024
£
£


Profit on ordinary activities before tax
682,429
581,572


Profit on ordinary activities multiplied by standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 25% (2024 - 25%)
170,607
145,393

Effects of:


Expenses not deductible for tax purposes, other than goodwill amortisation and impairment
6,900
5,213

Movement in deferred tax not recognised
(307,191)
(279,194)

Adjustments to tax charge in respect of previous periods - deferred tax
-
13,023

Total tax charge for the year
(129,684)
(115,565)


Factors that may affect future tax charges

The company has potential deferred tax assets in respect of losses available to carry forward of £948k. Further details of deferred tax assets recognised and unrecognised are set out in Notes 3 and 18.

Page 22

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

12.


Exceptional items

2025
Unaudited
2024
£
£


Bad debts
759,814
798,205

Other exceptional items
22,324
18,685

782,138
816,890

Please see note 3 for explanations regarding bad debts.


13.


Intangible assets




Development expenditure
Trademarks
Total

£
£
£



Cost


At 1 November 2024
442,933
67,165
510,098



At 31 October 2025

442,933
67,165
510,098



Amortisation


At 1 November 2024
442,416
67,165
509,581


Charge for the year on owned assets
517
-
517



At 31 October 2025

442,933
67,165
510,098



Net book value



At 31 October 2025
-
-
-



At 31 October 2024
517
-
517



Page 23

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

14.


Tangible fixed assets


Long-term leasehold property
Fixtures and fittings
Computer equipment
Total

£
£
£
£



Cost or valuation


At 1 November 2024
111,130
48,458
416,649
576,237


Additions
-
-
7,712
7,712



At 31 October 2025

111,130
48,458
424,361
583,949



Depreciation


At 1 November 2024
111,130
47,193
410,293
568,616


Charge for the year on owned assets
-
336
4,823
5,159



At 31 October 2025

111,130
47,529
415,116
573,775



Net book value



At 31 October 2025
-
929
9,245
10,174



At 31 October 2024
-
1,265
6,356
7,621


15.


Debtors

2025
Unaudited
2024
£
£


Trade and insurance related debtors
869,280
1,116,259

Amounts owed by group undertakings
2,977,362
2,029,039

Other debtors
13,145
11,819

Prepayments and accrued income
92,955
121,811

Deferred taxation
419,803
290,119

4,372,545
3,569,047


Amounts owed by group undertakings are unsecured, interest-free and repayable on demand.

Page 24

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

16.


Cash and cash equivalents

2025
Unaudited
2024
£
£

Cash at bank and in hand
1,935,422
2,225,591



17.


Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year

2025
Unaudited
2024
£
£

Trade and insurance related creditors
2,239,384
2,611,713

Other taxation and social security
69,634
63,246

Other creditors
92,537
85,871

Accruals and deferred income
151,783
89,256

2,553,338
2,850,086



18.


Deferred taxation




2025
Unaudited
2024


£

£






At beginning of year
290,119
174,554


Charged to profit or loss
129,684
115,565



At end of year
419,803
290,119

The deferred tax asset is made up as follows:

2025
Unaudited
2024
£
£


Accelerated capital allowances
16,575
19,435

Tax losses carried forward
400,000
267,750

Pension surplus
3,228
2,934

419,803
290,119

Page 25

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

19.


Share capital

2025
Unaudited
2024
£
£
Allotted, called up and fully paid



3,450,001 (2024 - 3,450,001) Ordinary shares of £1.00 each
3,450,001
3,450,001



20.


Reserves

Profit and loss account

The profit and loss account is the accumulation of profits and losses made by the Company since incorporation, net of dividends paid.


21.


Share-based payments

The group operates an Enterprise Management Incentive share option plan under which options over B Ordinary Shares of the company's parent, Principal Group Holdings Limited, may be granted to employees of the company. The options are equity-settled and are exercisable in accordance with the scheme rules, principally on an exit event or in the 90-day period prior to the tenth anniversary of grant, unless otherwise permitted by the board.

During the year, the company had outstanding EMI options granted in previous periods. The options are over £0.001 B Ordinary Shares in Principal Group Holdings. The Shares carry restricted rights, including no voting rights and no entitlement to dividends, and are subject to transfer and leaver restrictions under the company’s Articles of Association.

The fair value of options granted is measured at the grant date using an appropriate option pricing model and is charged to profit or loss over the relevant vesting period, with a corresponding credit to equity. The fair value calculation takes into account the exercise price, the market value of the shares at the date of grant, expected volatility, expected option life, risk-free rate and expected dividend yield.

No options were granted during the year ended 31 October 2025. The current value of any share based payment account has been deemed immaterial.

No charge has been recognised in these financial statements in respect of the additional options approved after the year end, as described in note 26.

Weighted average exercise price (pence)
2025
Number
2025
Weighted average exercise price
(pence)
2024
Number
2024

Outstanding at the beginning of the year

991

16,686

991
 
16,686
 
Outstanding at the end of the year
991

16,686

991
 
16,686
 





Page 26

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

22.


Contingent liabilities

The company is party to a Composite Guarantee and Trust Debenture dated 27 November 2018 in respect of loans provided by the ultimate shareholder. Under the debenture, the company, together with other group companies, has guaranteed the obligations due to the lender and has granted fixed and floating charges over substantially all of its assets and undertaking as security for those obligations.

At the year end, amounts outstanding in the parent company are £2,000,939 (
2024: £2,943,939). It is not anticipated that this Guarantee will be called upon at this time and therefore no provision is deemed necessary.


23.


Pension commitments

The Company operates a defined contributions pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the Company in an independently administered fund. The pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the Company to the fund and amounted to £74,478 (2024: £67,410). Contributions totalling £12,911 (2024: £11,737) were payable to the fund at the balance sheet date and are included in creditors.


24.


Commitments under operating leases

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

2025
Unaudited
2024
£
£


Not later than 1 year
105,964
99,234

Later than 1 year and not later than 5 years
104,467
140,605

Later than 5 years
8,640
-

219,071
239,839


25.


Related party transactions

During the year, the company paid amounts on behalf of the ultimate parent company of £943,000 (2024: £Nil).  At the year-end the company was owed £2,719,072 (2024: £1,776,072) by the parent company in respect of these transactions, and this is included within debtors.

During the year, Principal Insurance Limited received net funding of £310,000 (
2024: £143,000) and charged management fees of £315,323 (2024: £295,458) to a fellow subsidiary company in the group.  At the year-end, the company was owed £258,290 (2024: £252,967) from a fellow subsidiary company and this is included within debtors.

Page 27

 
Principal Insurance Limited
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 31 October 2025

26.


Post balance sheet events

On 24 November 2025, the board approved the grant of further EMI options over B Ordinary Shares in the parent company to selected employees under the company’s existing EMI share option plan. The options were granted over a total of 30,817 B Ordinary Shares of £0.001 each.

On 24 March 2026, the company's parent entity, Principal Group Holdings Limited, acquired the entire share capital of Europa Group Limited and Europa Underwriting Limited. These entities will form part of the group going forward.


27.


Controlling party

Principal Group Holdings Limited is the immediate and ultimate parent company, which is incorporated in the United Kingdom.  The address of the parent entity is Citygate, 2 Cross Street, Sale, Cheshire, M33 7JR.

The controlling party of Principal Group Holdings Limited as at the reporting date was G Squire by virtue of his 88% stake in the voting share capital of the parent company.

 
Page 28