Company registration number 04817824 (England and Wales)
UNICARD LIMITED
ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
UNICARD LIMITED
CONTENTS
Page
Companies information
1
Strategic report
2 - 3
Directors' report
4
Directors' responsibilities statement
5
Independent auditor's report
6 - 8
Group statement of comprehensive income
9
Group balance sheet
10
Company balance sheet
11
Group statement of changes in equity
12
Company statement of changes in equity
13
Group statement of cash flows
14
Notes to the financial statements
15 - 34
UNICARD LIMITED
COMPANY INFORMATION
- 1 -
Directors
Mr P L Verrept
Mr S Dickinson
Company number
04817824
Registered office
First Floor, Holes Bay House
Marshes End
Upton Road
Poole
Dorset
United Kingdom
BH17 7AG
Auditor
Azets Audit Services
37 Commercial Road
Poole
Dorset
BH14 0HU
UNICARD LIMITED
STRATEGIC REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
- 2 -
The directors present the strategic report for the year ended 31 December 2025.
Introduction
Metropolitan Transport Operators and a wide variety of Partners, Equipment Suppliers and System Integrators, both in the UK and abroad all benefit from Unicard’s vast experience in the provision of services in the sphere of public transport.
Unicard’s delivery capability for both Open and Closed Loop transport ticketing solutions is very well established across all modes of transport throughout the UK. And Unicard have historically been seen as the leading provider for both concessionary and commercial closed loop solution.
The seamless operational experience and commercial value of Unicard’s cEMV capability demonstrates also our credibility as a challenger in this market to current and historic alternatives, both in the UK and abroad. The Unicard cEMV proposition offers commercial flexibility, supported by referenceable deliveries, and demonstrates a business at the forefront of delivering innovative and market leading transport solutions to Large Cities, Passenger Transport Authorities, County and Unitary Authorities.
Review of the business
Unicard’s experience has seen an increasing number of Transport Authorities turning to us to help them deliver the future of transport ticketing, both in the UK and abroad, especially as a key provider of a cEMV and Account Based Ticketing (ABT) open platform. 2025 saw further consolidation across our products and services portfolios as we move into the final phases of integrating the ECEBS acquisition. Our continued investment in international growth, new product development and AWS cloud-based infrastructure has significantly improved system stability, enhanced technical support, built a sales pipeline of activity and improved delivery efficiency.
We continue our commitment to providing our customers in the Transport Authorities and the travelling public with access to new products, capabilities and technologies with enriched security, and resilience, and with regular product updates and regular cadence SaaS releases, because we intend to keep our customers at the forefront of our sector by maximising their access to these new opportunities.
Principal risks and uncertainties
Global public sector investment decisions targeted at public transport are for the first time in many years creating exciting commercial opportunities for operators like Unicard, and we feel well placed to respond to these initiatives with our complete product portfolio and the strategic direction of our market.
Key performance indicators
The business enjoys a robust financial position, secured in what has been in the last few years a decidedly dynamic and challenging economic landscape. This offers our customers a partner with proven longevity as we continue to respond to the growing market appetite for Unicard products and services.
Revenue performance saw continued compound revenue growth for the business – a trend sustained over successive years, delivered whilst continuing the ambitious ECEBS business integration target we have set ourselves, with turnover for the financial year ended in December confirmed at £9.82 million. This performance illustrates an increase of 6% over the previous 2024 FY. This performance has been delivered in the context of a continued business integration, in a market only starting to generate meaningful activity.
Per our 3-year business plan, further market penetration and growth, alongside product and customer migrations, and market consolidation will provide a strengthened market role for Unicard in the future.
Future Developments
2025 presented us with the opportunity to invest significantly in new product development commensurate with the rapid changes and evolution of our market, delivering our product roadmaps and establishing a modern platform, with this activity offering preparedness for future financial performance in 2027 and beyond.
UNICARD LIMITED
STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
- 3 -
Mr P L Verrept
Director
20 July 2026
UNICARD LIMITED
DIRECTORS' REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
- 4 -
The directors present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2025.
Principal activities
The principal activity of the company and group continued to be that of the provision of software for electronic ticketing machines for travel.
Results and dividends
The results for the year are set out on page 9.
Ordinary dividends were paid amounting to £600,000. The directors do not recommend payment of a further dividend.
Directors
The directors who held office during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were as follows:
Mr P L Verrept
Mr S Dickinson
Post reporting date events
There are no post reporting date events to disclose.
Going Concern
At the time of approving the financial statements, the directors have a reasonable expectation that the company has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the directors continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.
Auditor
In accordance with the company's articles, a resolution proposing that Azets Audit Services be reappointed as auditor of the group will be put at a General Meeting.
Statement of disclosure to auditor
In the case of each director in office at the date the directors’ report is approved:
so far as the director is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the company’s auditors are unaware; and
they have taken all the steps that they ought to have taken as a director in order to make themselves aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the company’s auditors are aware of that information.
Medium-sized companies exemption
This report has been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies entitled to the medium-sized companies exemption.
On behalf of the board
Mr P L Verrept
Director
20 July 2026
UNICARD LIMITED
DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITIES STATEMENT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
- 5 -
The directors are responsible for preparing the Annual 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 United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable law). 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 group and company, 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 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 and company will continue in business.
The directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the group’s and company’s transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the group and company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the group and company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
UNICARD LIMITED
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
TO THE MEMBERS OF UNICARD LIMITED
- 6 -
Opinion
We have audited the financial statements of Unicard Limited (the 'parent company') and its subsidiaries (the 'group') for the year ended 31 December 2025 which comprise the group statement of comprehensive income, the group balance sheet, the company balance sheet, the group statement of changes in equity, the company statement of changes in equity, the group statement of cash flows and notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).
In our opinion the financial statements:
give a true and fair view of the state of the group's and the parent company's affairs as at 31 December 2025 and of the group's profit for the year then ended;
have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and
have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the group and parent company 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. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.
Conclusions relating to going concern
In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the directors' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.
Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the group's and parent company's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.
Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the directors with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.
The other information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. The directors are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our 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.
Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006
In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of our 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.
UNICARD LIMITED
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MEMBERS OF UNICARD LIMITED
- 7 -
Matters on which we are required to report by exception
In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the group and the parent company and their 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 by the parent company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or
the parent company financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or
certain disclosures of directors' remuneration specified by law are not made; or
we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.
Responsibilities of directors
As explained more fully in the directors' responsibilities statement, 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 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 parent company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.
A further description of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at: https://www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's report.
UNICARD LIMITED
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MEMBERS OF UNICARD LIMITED
- 8 -
Extent to which the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud
Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above and on the Financial Reporting Council’s website, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud.
We obtain and update our understanding of the entity, its activities, its control environment, and likely future developments, including in relation to the legal and regulatory framework applicable and how the entity is complying with that framework. Based on this understanding, we identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. This includes consideration of the risk of acts by the entity that were contrary to applicable laws and regulations, including fraud.
In response to the risk of irregularities and non-compliance with laws and regulations, including fraud, we designed procedures which included:
Enquiry of management and those charged with governance around actual and potential litigation and claims as well as actual, suspected and alleged fraud;
Assessing the extent of compliance with the laws and regulations considered to have a direct material effect on the financial statements or the operations of the entity through enquiry and inspection;
Reviewing financial statement disclosures and testing to supporting documentation to assess compliance with applicable laws and regulations;
Performing audit work over the risk of management bias and override of controls, including testing of journal entries and other adjustments for appropriateness, evaluating the business rationale of significant transactions outside the normal course of business and reviewing accounting estimates for indicators of potential bias.
Because of the inherent limitations of an audit, there is a risk that we will not detect all irregularities, including those leading to a material misstatement in the financial statements or non-compliance with regulation. This risk increases the more that compliance with a law or regulation is removed from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, as we will be less likely to become aware of instances of non-compliance. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.
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 auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the company and the company’s members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.
Zara Hogg FCA, BA (Hons) (Senior Statutory Auditor)
For and on behalf of Azets Audit Services
23 July 2026
Chartered Accountants
Statutory Auditor
37 Commercial Road
Poole
Dorset
BH14 0HU
UNICARD LIMITED
GROUP STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
- 9 -
2025
2024
Notes
£
£
Turnover
3
9,821,596
9,247,849
Cost of sales
(8,668,996)
(7,514,336)
Gross profit
1,152,600
1,733,513
Administrative expenses
436,492
(288,449)
Other operating income
234,964
134,137
Operating profit
4
1,824,056
1,579,201
Interest receivable and similar income
120,791
171,985
Interest payable and similar expenses
8
(2,369)
(2,589)
Amounts written off investments
9
22,335
31,396
Profit before taxation
1,964,813
1,779,993
Tax on profit
10
(226,265)
158,764
Profit for the financial year
1,738,548
1,938,757
Other comprehensive income
Currency translation (loss)/gain taken to retained earnings
(44,144)
72,454
Total comprehensive income for the year
1,694,404
2,011,211
Profit for the financial year is all attributable to the owner of the parent company.
Total comprehensive income for the year is all attributable to the owner of the parent company.
The notes on pages 15 to 34 form part of these financial statements.
UNICARD LIMITED
GROUP BALANCE SHEET
AS AT
31 DECEMBER 2025
31 December 2025
- 10 -
2025
2024
Notes
£
£
£
£
Fixed assets
Negative goodwill
13
(2,355,780)
(6,394,260)
Other intangible assets
13
513,318
790,710
Total intangible assets
(1,842,462)
(5,603,550)
Tangible assets
14
310,895
281,946
Investments
15
134,113
111,778
(1,397,454)
(5,209,826)
Current assets
Stocks
18
64,596
31,876
Debtors
19
3,771,113
4,017,154
Cash at bank and in hand
3,116,432
6,037,691
6,952,141
10,086,721
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
20
(2,341,248)
(2,772,466)
Net current assets
4,610,893
7,314,255
Total assets less current liabilities
3,213,439
2,104,429
Provisions for liabilities
Deferred tax liability
22
41,162
26,556
(41,162)
(26,556)
Net assets
3,172,277
2,077,873
Capital and reserves
Called up share capital
24
2
2
Capital redemption reserve
2
2
Profit and loss reserves
3,172,273
2,077,869
Total equity
3,172,277
2,077,873
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions relating to medium-sized groups.
The financial statements were approved by the board of directors and authorised for issue on 20 July 2026 and are signed on its behalf by:
20 July 2026
Mr P L Verrept
Director
Company registration number 04817824 (England and Wales)
UNICARD LIMITED
COMPANY BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2025
31 December 2025
- 11 -
2025
2024
Notes
£
£
£
£
Fixed assets
Intangible assets
495,278
769,944
Tangible assets
14
223,286
166,899
Investments
15
2,287
2,287
720,851
939,130
Current assets
Stocks
18
64,596
31,876
Debtors
19
4,710,682
5,695,769
Cash at bank and in hand
2,859,677
5,846,183
7,634,955
11,573,828
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
20
(7,696,602)
(11,848,184)
Net current liabilities
(61,647)
(274,356)
Total assets less current liabilities
659,204
664,774
Provisions for liabilities
Deferred tax liability
22
22,825
9,306
(22,825)
(9,306)
Net assets
636,379
655,468
Capital and reserves
Called up share capital
24
2
2
Capital redemption reserve
2
2
Profit and loss reserves
636,375
655,464
Total equity
636,379
655,468
As permitted by s408 Companies Act 2006, the company has not presented its own profit and loss account and related notes. The company’s profit for the year was £580,911 (2024 - £238,818 profit).
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions relating to medium-sized companies.
The financial statements were approved by the board of directors and authorised for issue on 20 July 2026 and are signed on its behalf by:
20 July 2026
Mr P L Verrept
Director
Company registration number 04817824 (England and Wales)
UNICARD LIMITED
GROUP STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
- 12 -
Share capital
Capital redemption reserve
Profit and loss reserves
Total
Notes
£
£
£
£
Balance at 1 January 2024
2
2
1,582,658
1,582,662
Year ended 31 December 2024:
Profit for the year
-
-
1,938,757
1,938,757
Other comprehensive income:
Currency translation differences
-
-
72,454
72,454
Total comprehensive income
-
-
2,011,211
2,011,211
Dividends
11
-
-
(1,516,000)
(1,516,000)
Balance at 31 December 2024
2
2
2,077,869
2,077,873
Year ended 31 December 2025:
Profit for the year
-
-
1,738,548
1,738,548
Other comprehensive income:
Currency translation differences
-
-
(44,144)
(44,144)
Total comprehensive income
-
-
1,694,404
1,694,404
Dividends
11
-
-
(600,000)
(600,000)
Balance at 31 December 2025
2
2
3,172,273
3,172,277
UNICARD LIMITED
COMPANY STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
- 13 -
Share capital
Capital redemption reserve
Profit and loss reserves
Total
Notes
£
£
£
£
Balance at 1 January 2024
2
2
1,932,646
1,932,650
Year ended 31 December 2024:
Profit and total comprehensive income for the year
-
-
238,818
238,818
Dividends
11
-
-
(1,516,000)
(1,516,000)
Balance at 31 December 2024
2
2
655,464
655,468
Year ended 31 December 2025:
Profit and total comprehensive income
-
-
580,911
580,911
Dividends
11
-
-
(600,000)
(600,000)
Balance at 31 December 2025
2
2
636,375
636,379
UNICARD LIMITED
GROUP STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
- 14 -
2025
2024
Notes
£
£
£
£
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash absorbed by operations
29
(1,975,816)
(2,641,718)
Interest paid
(2,369)
(2,588)
Income taxes (paid)/refunded
(231,515)
112,585
Net cash outflow from operating activities
(2,209,700)
(2,531,721)
Investing activities
Purchase of intangible assets
-
(661,836)
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
(158,813)
(18,452)
Proceeds from disposal of tangible fixed assets
113
-
Movement in director loan account
(50,938)
-
Interest received
120,791
171,985
Net cash used in investing activities
(88,847)
(508,303)
Financing activities
Payment of finance leases obligations
(22,712)
-
Dividends paid to equity shareholders
(600,000)
(1,516,000)
Net cash used in financing activities
(622,712)
(1,516,000)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
(2,921,259)
(4,556,024)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
6,037,691
10,593,715
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
3,116,432
6,037,691
UNICARD LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
- 15 -
1
Accounting policies
Company information
Unicard Limited (“the company”) is a private limited company domiciled and incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is First Floor, Holes Bay Hour, Marshes End, Upton Road, Poole, Dorset, BH17 7AG.
The group consists of Unicard Limited and all of its subsidiaries.
1.1
Accounting convention
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with FRS 102 “The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland” (“FRS 102”) and the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.
The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the company. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.
1.2
Business combinations
In the parent company financial statements, the cost of a business combination is the fair value at the acquisition date of the assets given, equity instruments issued and liabilities incurred or assumed, plus costs directly attributable to the business combination. The excess of the cost of a business combination over the fair value of the identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities acquired is recognised as goodwill. The cost of the combination includes the estimated amount of contingent consideration that is probable and can be measured reliably, and is adjusted for changes in contingent consideration after the acquisition date. Provisional fair values recognised for business combinations in previous periods are adjusted retrospectively for final fair values determined in the 12 months following the acquisition date. Investments in subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates are accounted for at cost less impairment.
Deferred tax is recognised on differences between the value of assets (other than goodwill) and liabilities recognised in a business combination accounted for using the purchase method and the amounts that can be deducted or assessed for tax, considering the manner in which the carrying amount of the asset or liability is expected to be recovered or settled. The deferred tax recognised is adjusted against goodwill or negative goodwill.
1.3
Basis of consolidation
The consolidated group financial statements consist of the financial statements of the parent company Unicard Limited together with all entities controlled by the parent company (its subsidiaries) and the group’s share of its interests in joint ventures and associates.
All financial statements are made up to 31 December 2025. Where necessary, adjustments are made to the financial statements of subsidiaries to bring the accounting policies used into line with those used by other members of the group.
All intra-group transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between group companies are eliminated on consolidation. Unrealised losses are also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of an impairment of the asset transferred.
Subsidiaries are consolidated in the group’s financial statements from the date that control commences until the date that control ceases.
UNICARD LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 16 -
Entities in which the group holds an interest and which are jointly controlled by the group and one or more other venturers under a contractual arrangement are treated as joint ventures. Entities other than subsidiary undertakings or joint ventures, in which the group has a participating interest and over whose operating and financial policies the group exercises a significant influence, are treated as associates.
Investments in joint ventures and associates are carried in the group balance sheet at cost plus post-acquisition changes in the group’s share of the net assets of the entity, less any impairment in value. The carrying values of investments in joint ventures and associates include acquired goodwill.
If the group’s share of losses in a joint venture or associate equals or exceeds its investment in the joint venture or associate, the group does not recognise further losses unless it has incurred obligations to do so or has made payments on behalf of the joint venture or associate.
Unrealised gains arising from transactions with joint ventures and associates are eliminated to the extent of the group’s interest in the entity.
1.4
Going concern
At the time of approving the financial statements, the directors have a reasonable expectation that the group has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the directors continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.
1.5
Turnover
Turnover is recognised at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable for services provided in the normal course of business, and is shown net of VAT and other sales related taxes. The fair value of consideration takes into account trade discounts, settlement discounts and volume rebates.
When cash inflows are deferred and represent a financing arrangement, the fair value of the consideration is the present value of the future receipts. The difference between the fair value of the consideration and the nominal amount received is recognised as interest income.
Revenue from contracts for the provision of professional services is recognised by reference to the stage of completion when the stage of completion, costs incurred and costs to complete can be estimated reliably. The stage of completion is calculated by comparing costs incurred, mainly in relation to contractual hourly staff rates and materials, as a proportion of total costs. Where the outcome cannot be estimated reliably, revenue is recognised only to the extent of the expenses recognised that it is probable will be recovered.
1.6
Research and development expenditure
Research expenditure is written off against profits in the year in which it is incurred. Identifiable development expenditure is capitalised to the extent that the technical, commercial and financial feasibility can be demonstrated.
1.7
Intangible fixed assets - negative goodwill
Negative goodwill represents the excess of the fair value of net assets acquired over the cost of acquisition of a business. It is initially recognised as a liability at cost and is subsequently measured at cost less accumulated amortisation. Negative goodwill is considered to have a finite useful life and is amortised on a systematic basis over its expected life, which is 3 years.
Negative goodwill is released to profit and loss, up to the fair value of non-monetary assets acquired, over the periods in which the non-monetary assets are recovered and any excess of the fair value of non-monetary assets in the income statement over the period expected to benefit.
UNICARD LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 17 -
1.8
Intangible fixed assets other than goodwill
Intangible assets acquired separately from a business are recognised at cost and are subsequently measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses.
Intangible assets acquired on business combinations are recognised separately from goodwill at the acquisition date where it is probable that the expected future economic benefits that are attributable to the asset will flow to the entity and the fair value of the asset can be measured reliably; the intangible asset arises from contractual or other legal rights; and the intangible asset is separable from the entity.
Amortisation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:
Negative goodwill
Straight line over 3 years
Patents & licences
Straight line over 3 years
Development costs
Straight line over 3 years
1.9
Tangible fixed assets
Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.
Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:
Leasehold improvements
Over the lease of the lease
Fixtures and fittings
Straight line over 3 years and 25% reducing balance
Computers
Straight line over 3 years
Office equipment
Straight line over 3 years
Telecom equipment
Straight line over 5 years
The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the profit and loss account.
1.10
Fixed asset investments
Equity investments are measured at fair value through profit or loss, except for those equity investments that are not publicly traded and whose fair value cannot otherwise be measured reliably, which are recognised at cost less impairment until a reliable measure of fair value becomes available.
In the parent company financial statements, investments in subsidiaries, associates and jointly controlled entities are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses.
A subsidiary is an entity controlled by the group. Control is the power to govern the financial and operating policies of the entity so as to obtain benefits from its activities.
UNICARD LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 18 -
An associate is an entity, being neither a subsidiary nor a joint venture, in which the company holds a long-term interest and where the company has significant influence. The group considers that it has significant influence where it has the power to participate in the financial and operating decisions of the associate.
Investments in associates are initially recognised at the transaction price (including transaction costs) and are subsequently adjusted to reflect the group’s share of the profit or loss, other comprehensive income and equity of the associate using the equity method. Any difference between the cost of acquisition and the share of the fair value of the net identifiable assets of the associate on acquisition is recognised as goodwill. Any unamortised balance of goodwill is included in the carrying value of the investment in associates.
Losses in excess of the carrying amount of an investment in an associate are recorded as a provision only when the company has incurred legal or constructive obligations or has made payments on behalf of the associate.
In the parent company financial statements, investments in associates are accounted for at cost less impairment.
Entities in which the group has a long term interest and shares control under a contractual arrangement are classified as jointly controlled entities.
1.11
Impairment of fixed assets
At each reporting period end date, the group reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible and intangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any). Where it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, the company estimates the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit to which the asset belongs.
The carrying amount of the investments accounted for using the equity method is tested for impairment as a single asset. Any goodwill included in the carrying amount of the investment is not tested separately for impairment.
Recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset for which the estimates of future cash flows have not been adjusted.
If the recoverable amount of an asset (or cash-generating unit) is estimated to be less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset (or cash-generating unit) is reduced to its recoverable amount. An impairment loss is recognised immediately in profit or loss, unless the relevant asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case the impairment loss is treated as a revaluation decrease.
Recognised impairment losses are reversed if, and only if, the reasons for the impairment loss have ceased to apply. Where an impairment loss subsequently reverses, the carrying amount of the asset (or cash-generating unit) is increased to the revised estimate of its recoverable amount, but so that the increased carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognised for the asset (or cash-generating unit) in prior years. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognised immediately in profit or loss, unless the relevant asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case the reversal of the impairment loss is treated as a revaluation increase.
1.12
Stocks
Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell. Cost comprises direct materials and, where applicable, direct labour costs and those overheads that have been incurred in bringing the stocks to their present location and condition.
UNICARD LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 19 -
At each reporting date, an assessment is made for impairment. Any excess of the carrying amount of stocks over its estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell is recognised as an impairment loss in profit or loss. Reversals of impairment losses are also recognised in profit or loss.
1.13
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents are basic financial assets and include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.
1.14
Financial instruments
The group has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.
Financial instruments are recognised in the group's balance sheet when the group becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
Financial assets and liabilities are offset and 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 debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method 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 classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.
Other financial assets
Other financial assets, including investments in equity instruments which are not subsidiaries, associates or joint ventures, are initially measured at fair value, which is normally the transaction price. Such assets are subsequently carried at fair value and the changes in fair value are recognised in profit or loss, except that investments in equity instruments that are not publicly traded and whose fair values cannot be measured reliably are measured at cost less impairment.
Impairment of financial assets
Financial assets, other than those held at fair value through profit and loss, are assessed for indicators of impairment at each reporting end date.
Financial assets are impaired where there is objective evidence that, as a result of one or more events that occurred after the initial recognition of the financial asset, the estimated future cash flows have been affected. 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.
If there is a decrease in the impairment loss arising from an event occurring after the impairment was recognised, the impairment is reversed. The reversal is such that the current carrying amount does not exceed what the carrying amount would have been, had the impairment not previously been recognised. The impairment reversal is recognised in profit or loss.
Derecognition of financial assets
Financial assets are derecognised only when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire or are settled, or when the group transfers the financial asset and substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to another entity, or if some significant risks and rewards of ownership are retained but control of the asset has transferred to another party that is able to sell the asset in its entirety to an unrelated third party.
UNICARD LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 20 -
Classification of financial liabilities
Financial liabilities and equity instruments are classified according to the substance of the contractual arrangements entered into. An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the group after deducting all of its liabilities.
Basic financial liabilities
Basic financial liabilities, including creditors, bank loans, loans from fellow group companies and preference shares that are classified as debt, are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.
Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method.
Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of business from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.
Other financial liabilities
Derivatives, including interest rate swaps and forward foreign exchange contracts, are not basic financial instruments. Derivatives are initially recognised at fair value on the date a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently re-measured at their fair value. Changes in the fair value of derivatives are recognised in profit or loss in finance costs or finance income as appropriate, unless hedge accounting is applied and the hedge is a cash flow hedge.
Debt instruments that do not meet the conditions in FRS 102 paragraph 11.9 are subsequently measured at fair value through profit or loss. Debt instruments may be designated as being measured at fair value through profit or loss to eliminate or reduce an accounting mismatch or if the instruments are measured and their performance evaluated on a fair value basis in accordance with a documented risk management or investment strategy.
Derecognition of financial liabilities
Financial liabilities are derecognised when the group's contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.
1.15
Equity instruments
Equity instruments issued by the group are recorded at the proceeds received, net of transaction costs. Dividends payable on equity instruments are recognised as liabilities once they are no longer at the discretion of the group.
1.16
Taxation
The tax expense represents the sum of the tax currently payable and deferred tax.
Current tax
The tax currently payable is based on taxable profit for the year. Taxable profit differs from net profit as reported in the profit and loss account because it excludes items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and it further excludes items that are never taxable or deductible. The group’s liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting end date.
UNICARD LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 21 -
Deferred tax
Deferred tax liabilities are generally recognised for all timing differences and 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. Such assets and liabilities are not recognised if the timing difference arises from goodwill or from the initial recognition of other assets and liabilities in a transaction that affects neither the tax profit nor the accounting profit.
The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each reporting end date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available to allow all or part of the asset to be recovered. Deferred tax is calculated at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the period when the liability is settled or the asset is realised. Deferred tax is charged or credited in the profit and loss account, except when it relates to items charged or credited directly to equity, in which case the deferred tax is also dealt with in equity. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset if, and only if, there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets and liabilities and the deferred tax assets and liabilities relate to taxes levied by the same tax authority.
1.17
Employee benefits
The costs of short-term employee benefits are recognised as a liability and an expense, unless those costs are required to be recognised as part of the cost of stock or fixed assets.
The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received.
Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the company is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.
1.18
Retirement benefits
Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due.
1.19
Leases
Leases are classified as finance leases whenever the terms of the lease transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to the lessees. All other leases are classified as operating leases.
Assets held under finance leases are recognised as assets at the lower of the assets fair value at the date of inception and the present value of the minimum lease payments. The related liability is included in the balance sheet as a finance lease obligation. Lease payments are treated as consisting of capital and interest elements. The interest is charged to profit or loss so as to produce a constant periodic rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability.
Rentals payable under operating leases, including any lease incentives received, are charged to profit or loss on a straight line basis over the term of the relevant lease except where another more systematic basis is more representative of the time pattern in which economic benefits from the leased asset are consumed.
1.20
Government grants
Government grants are recognised at the fair value of the asset received or receivable when there is reasonable assurance that the grant conditions will be met and the grants will be received.
A grant that specifies performance conditions is recognised in income when the performance conditions are met. Where a grant does not specify performance conditions it is recognised in income when the proceeds are received or receivable. A grant received before the recognition criteria are satisfied is recognised as a liability.
UNICARD LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
- 22 -
2
Judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty
In the application of the group’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 where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.
Revenue Recognition on Contracts
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.
Long term contract accounting is applied where a contract is specifically negotiated for the development of software and integration into the clients processes. Therefore, revenue is recognised on a percentage of completion basis whereby a portion of the contract revenue is recognised based on contract costs incurred to date. This is primarily by reference to total cost or labour hours dependant what best reflects the underlying effort, compared with total estimated costs at completion. Profits are determined once the outcome of the contract can be assessed with reasonable certainty, after making reserves against all anticipated costs, including possible warranty claims. Where billing milestones is considered to be a fair proxy for percentage of completion on a contract, revenue is then recognised based on the achievement of specified contractual billing milestones.
Capitalised Development Costs
Development costs are capitalised based on the estimated costs incurred by the business for each project being undertaken. Employees hours are estimated by the business and then this is charged at a day-rate cost for each employee to estimate the total cost of development to the Company. At each reporting period end date, the company reviews the carrying amounts of its intangible asset development costs to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any). Where it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, the company estimates the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit to which the asset belongs.
3
Turnover and other revenue
2025
2024
£
£
Turnover analysed by class of business
Sales of smart cards and printers
188,677
124,258
Sales of software license
4,012,853
4,629,093
Sales of SaaS and hosting
3,320,919
4,286,749
Other Sales
2,299,147
207,749
9,821,596
9,247,849
UNICARD LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
3
Turnover and other revenue
(Continued)
- 23 -
2025
2024
£
£
Turnover analysed by geographical market
United Kingdom
9,821,596
9,247,849
2025
2024
£
£
Other revenue
Interest income
120,791
171,985
R&D Grants received
2,000
131,147
4
Operating profit
2025
2024
£
£
Operating profit for the year is stated after charging/(crediting):
Exchange losses
155
41,359
Government grants
(2,000)
(131,147)
Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets
151,804
179,502
Loss on disposal of tangible fixed assets
304
-
Amortisation of intangible assets
277,392
228,147
Release of negative goodwill
(4,038,480)
(4,038,480)
Operating lease charges
160,504
105,018
5
Auditor's remuneration
2025
2024
Fees payable to the company's auditor and associates:
£
£
For audit services
Audit of the financial statements of the group and company
17,000
16,150
Audit of the financial statements of the company's subsidiaries
9,300
8,850
26,300
25,000
For other services
Taxation compliance services
4,450
4,200
All other non-audit services
7,900
7,900
12,350
12,100
UNICARD LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
- 24 -
6
Employees
The average monthly number of persons (including directors) employed by the group and company during the year was:
Group
Company
2025
2024
2025
2024
Number
Number
Number
Number
Directors
2
2
2
2
Unicard
56
49
56
49
ECEBS
9
17
-
-
Unicorn - R&D
49
50
-
-
Total
116
118
58
51
Their aggregate remuneration comprised:
Group
Company
2025
2024
2025
2024
£
£
£
£
Wages and salaries
5,552,808
5,298,957
3,547,410
2,793,136
Social security costs
659,212
643,417
456,327
382,923
Pension costs
167,575
172,244
143,021
133,160
6,379,595
6,114,618
4,146,758
3,309,219
7
Directors' remuneration
2025
2024
£
£
Remuneration for qualifying services
325,151
420,944
Company pension contributions to defined contribution schemes
14,063
17,290
339,214
438,234
The number of directors for whom retirement benefits are accruing under defined contribution schemes amounted to 1 (2024 - 1).
Remuneration disclosed above includes the following amounts paid to the highest paid director:
2025
2024
£
£
Remuneration for qualifying services
200,899
345,572
Company pension contributions to defined contribution schemes
14,063
17,290
UNICARD LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
- 25 -
8
Interest payable and similar expenses
2025
2024
£
£
Interest on financial liabilities measured at amortised cost:
Interest on bank overdrafts and loans
1,960
2,589
Other finance costs:
Other interest
409
-
Total finance costs
2,369
2,589
9
Amounts written off investments
2025
2024
£
£
Gain on disposal of investments held at fair value
22,834
31,396
Other gains and losses
(499)
-
22,335
31,396
10
Taxation
2025
2024
£
£
Current tax
UK corporation tax on profits for the current period
211,659
Adjustments in respect of prior periods
(112,585)
Total current tax
211,659
(112,585)
Deferred tax
Origination and reversal of timing differences
14,606
(6,113)
Adjustment in respect of prior periods
(40,066)
Total deferred tax
14,606
(46,179)
Total tax charge/(credit)
226,265
(158,764)
UNICARD LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
10
Taxation
(Continued)
- 26 -
The actual charge/(credit) for the year can be reconciled to the expected charge for the year based on the profit or loss and the standard rate of tax as follows:
2025
2024
£
£
Profit before taxation
1,964,813
1,779,993
Expected tax charge based on the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 25.00% (2024: 25.00%)
491,203
444,998
Tax effect of expenses that are not deductible in determining taxable profit
18,870
(22,623)
Tax effect of income not taxable in determining taxable profit
(1,005,165)
(1,007,309)
Unutilised tax losses carried forward
721,357
558,370
Permanent capital allowances in excess of depreciation
12,057
Research and development tax credit
(144,257)
Taxation charge/(credit)
226,265
(158,764)
11
Dividends
2025
2024
Recognised as distributions to equity holders:
£
£
Final paid
600,000
1,516,000
12
Impairments
Impairment tests have been carried out where appropriate and the following impairment losses have been recognised in profit or loss:
2025
2024
Notes
£
£
In respect of:
Investments in associates
15
499
-
Recognised in:
Amounts written off investments
499
-
The impairment losses in respect of financial assets are recognised in other gains and losses in the profit and loss account.
UNICARD LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
- 27 -
13
Intangible fixed assets
Group
Negative goodwill
Patents & licences
Development costs
Total
£
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 January 2025 and 31 December 2025
(12,115,440)
154,398
1,899,162
(10,061,880)
Amortisation and impairment
At 1 January 2025
(5,721,180)
154,398
1,108,452
(4,458,330)
Amortisation charged for the year
(4,038,480)
277,392
(3,761,088)
At 31 December 2025
(9,759,660)
154,398
1,385,844
(8,219,418)
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2025
(2,355,780)
513,318
(1,842,462)
At 31 December 2024
(6,394,260)
790,710
(5,603,550)
Company
Development costs
£
Cost
At 1 January 2025 and 31 December 2025
1,843,197
Amortisation and impairment
At 1 January 2025
1,073,253
Amortisation charged for the year
274,666
At 31 December 2025
1,347,919
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2025
495,278
At 31 December 2024
769,944
More information on impairment movements in the year is given in note 12.
UNICARD LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
- 28 -
14
Tangible fixed assets
Group
Leasehold improvements
Fixtures and fittings
Computers
Office equipment
Telecom equipment
Total
£
£
£
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 January 2025
298,383
(11,108)
506,330
16,795
40,886
851,286
Additions
73,424
15,102
70,093
194
158,813
Disposals
(800)
(800)
At 31 December 2025
371,807
3,194
576,423
16,989
40,886
1,009,299
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 January 2025
111,571
(13,605)
445,718
10,924
14,732
569,340
Depreciation charged in the year
80,097
1,821
55,666
3,824
10,396
151,804
Eliminated in respect of disposals
(383)
(383)
Exchange adjustments
(22,357)
(22,357)
At 31 December 2025
191,668
(12,167)
479,027
14,748
25,128
698,404
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2025
180,139
15,361
97,396
2,241
15,758
310,895
At 31 December 2024
186,812
2,497
60,612
5,871
26,154
281,946
Company
Leasehold improvements
Fixtures and fittings
Computers
Office equipment
Total
£
£
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 January 2025
187,107
19,870
501,719
5,536
714,232
Additions
73,424
1,594
68,487
194
143,699
Disposals
(800)
(800)
At 31 December 2025
260,531
20,664
570,206
5,730
857,131
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 January 2025
46,777
17,373
480,994
2,189
547,333
Depreciation charged in the year
57,201
1,446
26,948
1,300
86,895
Eliminated in respect of disposals
(383)
(383)
At 31 December 2025
103,978
18,436
507,942
3,489
633,845
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2025
156,553
2,228
62,264
2,241
223,286
At 31 December 2024
140,330
2,497
20,725
3,347
166,899
UNICARD LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
- 29 -
15
Fixed asset investments
Group
Company
2025
2024
2025
2024
Notes
£
£
£
£
Investments in subsidiaries
16
2,287
2,287
Investments in associates
499
Investments in joint ventures
17
134,113
111,279
134,113
111,778
2,287
2,287
Movements in fixed asset investments
Group
Shares in associates and joint ventures
£
Cost or valuation
At 1 January 2025
111,778
Share of net assets movement
22,834
At 31 December 2025
134,612
Impairment
At 1 January 2025
-
Disposals
499
At 31 December 2025
499
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2025
134,113
At 31 December 2024
111,778
On 20 May 2025, an associate investment owned by the Company, Accrington Technolgies Limited, was dissolved. The investment of 499 Ordinary shares at £1 per share has been written off to the Profit and Loss account.
Movements in fixed asset investments
Company
Shares in subsidiaries
£
Cost or valuation
At 1 January 2025 and 31 December 2025
2,287
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2025
2,287
At 31 December 2024
2,287
UNICARD LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
- 30 -
16
Subsidiaries
Details of the company's subsidiaries at 31 December 2025 are as follows:
Name of undertaking
Registered office
Nature of business
Class of
% Held
shares held
Direct
Indirect
ECEBS Limited
UK
Transport technolgy
Ordinary
100.00
-
Unicorn Systems Limited
Bulgaria
R&D and call centre
Ordinary
100.00
-
Multefile Limited
UK
Dormant business
Ordinary
0
100.00
17
Joint ventures
Details of joint ventures at 31 December 2025 are as follows:
Name of undertaking
Registered office
Nature of business
Interest
% Held
held
Direct
Indirect
Nevis Technolgies Limited
UK
Meteorological sensors
Ordinary
0
50.01
18
Stocks
Group
Company
2025
2024
2025
2024
£
£
£
£
Work in progress
64,596
31,876
64,596
31,876
19
Debtors
Group
Company
2025
2024
2025
2024
Amounts falling due within one year:
£
£
£
£
Trade debtors
3,136,044
3,750,541
2,745,713
3,112,860
Corporation tax recoverable
19,856
19,856
Amounts owed by group undertakings
1,546,854
2,386,862
Other debtors
129,352
115,059
67,356
55,578
Prepayments and accrued income
485,861
151,554
330,903
140,469
3,771,113
4,017,154
4,710,682
5,695,769
UNICARD LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
- 31 -
20
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
Group
Company
2025
2024
2025
2024
Notes
£
£
£
£
Obligations under finance leases
21
22,712
22,712
Trade creditors
481,367
262,557
428,044
209,365
Amounts owed to group undertakings
5,805,068
9,956,106
Other taxation and social security
620,715
621,367
563,431
543,888
Deferred income
481,694
501,081
405,043
446,715
Other creditors
235,210
574,985
236,299
447,808
Accruals and deferred income
522,262
789,764
258,717
221,590
2,341,248
2,772,466
7,696,602
11,848,184
21
Finance lease obligations
Group
Company
2025
2024
2025
2024
£
£
£
£
Future minimum lease payments due under finance leases:
Within one year
22,712
22,712
Finance lease payments represent rentals payable by the company or group for certain items of plant and machinery. Leases include purchase options at the end of the lease period, and no restrictions are placed on the use of the assets. The average lease term was 3 years. All leases are on a fixed repayment basis and no arrangements have been entered into for contingent rental payments.
Liabilities under finance lease were secured against the asset to which they relate.
22
Deferred taxation
The following are the major deferred tax liabilities and assets recognised by the group and company, and movements thereon:
Liabilities
Liabilities
2025
2024
Group
£
£
Accelerated capital allowances
41,162
26,556
Liabilities
Liabilities
2025
2024
Company
£
£
Accelerated capital allowances
22,825
9,306
UNICARD LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
22
Deferred taxation
(Continued)
- 32 -
Group
Company
2025
2025
Movements in the year:
£
£
Liability at 1 January 2025
26,556
9,306
Charge to profit or loss
14,606
13,519
Liability at 31 December 2025
41,162
22,825
The deferred tax liability set out above is expected to reverse over the useful life of the fixed assets and relates to accelerated capital allowances that are expected to mature within the same period.
23
Retirement benefit schemes
2025
2024
Defined contribution schemes
£
£
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes
167,575
172,244
A defined contribution pension scheme is operated for all qualifying employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the group in an independently administered fund. At the balance sheet date the amount due to the fund was £32,856 (2024: £35,419).
24
Share capital
Group and company
2025
2024
2025
2024
Ordinary share capital
Number
Number
£
£
Issued and fully paid
Ordinary shares of 0.001p each
225,000
225,000
2
2
During the prior year, a resolution was passed to subdivide 4 Ordinary shares of £1 each into 400,000 Ordinary shares of £0.00001 each. Following this change a capital reduction was completed to reduce the Ordinary share capital of the company from 400,000 shares to 225,000.
25
Operating lease commitments
Lessee
At the reporting end date the group had outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases, which fall due as follows:
Group
Company
2025
2024
2025
2024
£
£
£
£
Within one year
131,724
108,749
48,060
25,085
Between two and five years
75,326
88,019
70,971
-
207,050
196,768
119,031
25,085
UNICARD LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
- 33 -
26
Directors' transactions
During the year a total of £50,000 (2024: £nil) was advanced to a director in respect of their directors' current account. Interest totaling £938 (2024: £nil) was charged at an average rate of 3.75% during the year. At the balance sheet date the amount due from the director was £50,938 (2024: £nil).
27
Related party transactions
The company has taken advantage of the exemption available in Section 33.1A of FRS 102 whereby it has not disclosed transactions with any wholly owned subsidiary undertaking of the group.
Nevis Technolgies Limited
(Jointly owned business)
During the year, sales of £329,587 (2024: £358,837) were made to Nevis Technolgies Limited by ECEBS Limited. At the balance sheet date a balance of £Nil (2024: £56,375) was included within trade debtors.
28
Controlling party
The ultimate controlling party of the group is Mr P Verrupt, this is by virtue of his 100% shareholding in the group.
29
Cash absorbed by group operations
2025
2024
£
£
Profit after taxation
1,738,548
1,938,757
Adjustments for:
Taxation charged/(credited)
226,265
(158,764)
Finance costs
2,369
2,589
Investment income
(120,791)
(171,985)
Loss on disposal of tangible fixed assets
304
-
Amortisation and impairment of intangible assets
(3,761,088)
(3,810,333)
Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets
151,804
179,502
Foreign exchange movement on fixed assets
(22,357)
-
Other gains and losses
(22,335)
(31,396)
Foreign exchange variance on consolidation
(44,144)
72,454
Movements in working capital:
Increase in stocks
(32,720)
(31,876)
Decrease/(increase) in debtors
316,835
(967,402)
(Decrease)/increase in creditors
(389,119)
293,709
(Decrease)/increase in deferred income
(19,387)
43,027
Cash absorbed by operations
(1,975,816)
(2,641,718)
UNICARD LIMITED
NOTES TO THE GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
- 34 -
30
Analysis of changes in net funds - group
1 January 2025
Cash flows
31 December 2025
£
£
£
Cash at bank and in hand
6,037,691
(2,921,259)
3,116,432
Obligations under finance leases
(22,712)
22,712
-
6,014,979
(2,898,547)
3,116,432
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