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Registered number: 12205715









WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED









ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 

CONTENTS



Page
Company Information
1
Strategic Report
2 - 4
Directors' Report
5 - 9
Statement of Directors' Responsibilities in respect of the Directors' Report and the Financial Statements
10
Independent Auditor's Report to the members of Wessex Retail Limited
11 - 14
Statement of Profit and Loss and Other Comprehensive Income
15
Balance Sheet
16
Statement of Changes in Equity
17
Notes to the Financial Statements
18 - 37

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
COMPANY INFORMATION


Directors
J Moane (Irish resident) (appointed 2 January 2025)
J Keohane 
M A Boardman 
A Keane (Irish resident) 




Company secretary
J Kane (Irish resident)



Registered number
12205715



Registered office
Moorlands Trading Estate
Saltash

PL126LX

England




Auditor
KPMG
Chartered Accountants

1 Stokes Place

St. Stephens Green

Dublin 2

Ireland




Bankers
Barclays Bank PLC
Bridgewater House

Finzels Reach

Bristol

BS1 6BX




Solicitors
Foot Anstey 2020
Salt Quay House

4 North East Quay

Sutton Harbour

Plymouth, Devon

PL4 OBN




Page 1

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
STRATEGIC REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

Introduction
 
The Directors present their strategic report of the Company for the year ended 26 September 2025.

Business review
 
The principal activity of the Company is the operation of retail convenience stores under the Spar brand in the Southwest of England.

The Company, its parent company, and a fellow subsidiary were classified as held for sale in accordance with IFRS 5: Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations. As of 28 March 2025, these businesses met the criteria for classification as held for sale based on approved disposal plans, an active search for buyers, and the expectation that the sale will be completed within 12 months of classification.

Trading conditions in the period were challenging for convenience retailers, with continued investment from the major supermarket groups and the rapid expansion of the discount operators.

Company sales were £53.6m in 2025 
(2024: £58.1m). The decline of 7.7% in sales is principally due to growing competition from the multiple retailers and a sharp decline in the sales volume of tobacco and vape products. Convenience retail has been particularly impacted in the fall off in tobacco demand and the banning of single use vape products.

Gross profit margins declined to 24.6% from 25.2% for the prior year. The margin percentage decline reflects increasing competition on consumer staples and the need to provide higher levels of promotional activity.

The large increases to the minimum wage and employers National Insurance from April 2025 have been a key drivers to the increase in net operating expenses from 26.2% of sales in prior year to 28.0% in the current year.

There were no acquisitions in the current year (2024: 1 store).

Principal risks and uncertainties
 
The Board monitors the trading performances risks associated with the Company's operations and implements procedures to mitigate the consequences of such risks.

The management of the business and the execution of the Company's strategy are subject to a number of risks. The key identified business risks are considered to be competition from multiples and reliance on a major supplier. The Company mitigates the risk from competition by being competitive on a price and its economies of scale ensure it is able to deliver value to its customers. Similarly, the reliance on a major supplier also ensures that the Company can get maximum value for its customers through bulk order discounts.

Key performance indicators
 
The main indicator for financial performance used by the Directors and shareholders is PBT (Profit before tax). The Company made a loss of £2.2m in the year ended 26 September 2025 (2024: £9.6m). The Company has faced a difficult year. The primary factors contributing to the loss are higher electricity costs, increased labor expenses, and a decrease in store footfall due to changes in consumer behavior.

Sales, gross profit margin, stock leakage and wages at the store level are key performance indicators for the business and are monitored by the directors and management team of the business on a weekly and monthly basis to understand the performance of the estate.

The Company’s Balance Sheet was at a net liability position of £12.4m 
(2024: £10.1m) as at 26 September 2025.
 
Page 2

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 

STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

Key performance indicators (continued)

In assessing business performance, the Directors also monitor a number of non-financial measurements, including foot fall and labour hours worked to help measure store efficiency, and numerous other store performance indicators including mystery shopper scores, stock count accuracy and regular audits of stores to confirm compliance.

Fair review of the business
 
The results for the year reflect a challenging trading environment for the company, with sales declining by 7.7% year on year. This was primarily driven by the UK cost-of-living crisis and the ban on single-use vapes. Management’s focus during the year was on maintaining a gross margin of 25%, which was successfully achieved.

Section 172 statement
 
The Board of Directors confirm that during the year they have acted to promote the long term success of the
Company for the benefit of the shareholder, while having due regard to matters set out in section 172. Section
172 requires a director to have regard, amongst other matters, to the following:

• likely consequences of any decisions in the long-term;
• interests of the Company’s employees;
• need to foster the Company’s business relationships with suppliers, customers and others;
• impact of the Company’s operations on the community and environment;
• desirability of the Company maintaining a reputation for high standards of business conduct and
• the need to act fairly between memmber of the Company.

Fostering business relationships

The Company’s key stakeholders are its employees, customers, suppliers, shareholder and the local communities in which it operates. The views of and the impact of the Company’s activities on those stakeholders are an important consideration for directors when making relevant decisions. When making judgmental decisions which require balance across different stakeholders interests the board is careful to consider each stakeholder group separately and in the context of its long term consequences. The Company have an established approach to engaging employees to ensure they take their perspectives into account in decision-making and action plans. The employee opinion survey formally captures their views.

Impact of the company’s operations on the community and environment

The operations of the Company are regulated by various regulator and government bodies, The Office of Gas and Electricty Markets (OFGEM) being the most notable. OFGEM regulates the gas and electricity market in the UK. The Directors receive formal reports detailing the Company’s compliance with its regulatory obligations. This allows the Directors to monitor compliance and engagement with regulatory and government bodies. Any concerns raised by those bodies would also be shared with the Directors in such reports and an action plan for remediating any such concerns would be discussed by the Directors during Company board meetings. The Directors periodically consider whether the Company’s arrangements for complying with the requirements of government and regulatory bodies are fit for purpose.

Page 3

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 

STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025


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


J Keohane
Director

Date: 29 July 2026
Page 4

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

The Directors present their report and the financial statements for the year ended 26 September 2025.

In the current year, the company has adopted the 52 week retail calendar for financial reporting, aligning the Group’s reporting cycle with international retail best practice. As a result, the two years are not directly comparable, as the current year comprises 361 days compared to 366 days in the prior year.

Results and Dividends

The loss for the year ended 26 September 2025, after taxation, amounted to £2.2m (2024: £9.6m). 

Details of the loss for the year are set out in the Statement of Profit and Loss account and Other Comprehensive Income on page 15 and the related notes. Turnover of £53.6m (2024: £58.1m) achieved in the year ended 26 September 2025 and the Company generated an operating loss for the year ended 26 September 2025 of £1.9m (2024: £8.8m). In the current year, the Company has felt the impact of rising inflationary costs, particularly in store electricity and labor expenses. The Directors have also observed a shift in consumer behavior due to the increased cost of living.

As of 28 March 2025, the Company met the criteria for classification as held for sale based on approved disposal plans, an active search for buyers, and the expectation that the sale will be completed within 12 months of classification.

There were no dividends paid during the year 
(2024: £Nil).

Directors' and secretary's interests

The Directors who served during the year were:

J Moane (Irish resident) (appointed 2 January 2025)
J Keohane 
M A Boardman 
A Keane (Irish resident) 

In accordance with the Constitution, the Directors are not required to retire by rotation and accordingly they will continue in office.

There was no contract or arrangement with the Company during the period in which a director of the Company was materially interested and which was significant in relation to the Company's business.

The Directors and the Company secretary have no interest in the shares of the Company.

Political contributions

During the year, the Company made no political contributions that would require disclosure (2024: £Nil).

Environmental matters

The Company will seek to minimise adverse impacts on the environment from its activities, whilst continuing to address health, safety and economic issues. The Company has complied with all applicable legislation and regulations.

Page 5

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

Going concern

The Directors have reviewed the detailed five-year plan prepared by management. The cash flow projection
underpins the going concern assessment and confirms that sufficient funding remains in place for a period of at
least 12 months from the date of this report.

The board has reviewed the balance sheet as at 26 September 2025.

At year end, the Company is in a net liability position and as such has received a letter of financial support from BWG Group Unlimited Company undertaking to provide financial support to the Company for a period not less than twelve months from the date of these financial statements.

The Directors have a reasonable expectation that the Company has adequate resources to continue in
operational existence for the foreseeable future due to its group financing arrangements.

Based on the above reviews, the Company continues to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the financial
statements.

Future developments

The Company's strategy is to continue to develop its existing estate of convenience stores whilst looking to increase store numbers. The Directors believe that this policy will maintain sales in an increasingly competitive market place.

Employment of disabled persons

Applications for employment by disabled persons are always fully considered, bearing in mind the respective 
aptitudes and abilities of the applicant concerned. In the event of members of staff becoming disabled, every effort is made to ensure that their employment with the Company continues and that appropriate training is arranged. It is the policy of the Company that the training, career development and promotion of a disabled person should, as far as is possible, be identical to that of a person who does not suffer from a disability. 

Employee involvement

The Company places considerable value on the involvement of its employees and will keep them informed on matters affecting them as employees and on the various factors affecting the performance of the company. This is achieved through regular formal and informal meetings. Employee representatives are consulted regularly on a wide range of matters affecting their current and future interests.

Financial risk management

a) Credit risk
The Company is exposed to limited credit risks as sales are transacted for cash. Its main credit risk relates to the payment of a retrospective discount from its major supplier.

b) Liquidity risk
The Company actively monitors its working capital requirements and cash flows to ensure the Company has sufficient available funds for operations and planned expansions.

c) Interest rate cash flow risk
The Company has both interest bearing assets and interest bearing liabilities. Interest bearing assets include cash balances and finance lease receivables. Interest bearing liabilities relate to lease liabilites.

Page 6

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

Streamlined Energy & Carbon Reporting

The Company's greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption are as follows: 


2025
2024

Emissions resulting from activities for which the Company is responsible involving the combustion of gas or consumption of fuel for the purposes of transport (in tonnes of CO2 equivalent)
3.1
5.4

Emissions resulting from the purchase of the electricity by the Company for its own use, including the purposes of transport (in tonnes of CO2 equivalent)
820.1
896.4

Energy consumed from activities for which the Company is responsible involving the combustion of gas, or the consumption of fuel for the purposes of transport, and the annual quantity of energy consumed resulting from the purchase of electricity by the Company for its own use, including for the purposes of transport, in kWh
14.9
30.4

- Energy consumption used to calculate emissions was 4.7m kWh (2024: 4.5m kWh)  for the year ended 26 September 2025.

- The intensity ratio (tCO2e/1000ft sq retail space) was 12.2 
(2024: 13.6).

Methodology Notes

Third party verification- True Solutions Consulting Ltd

Alignment with financial reporting - SECR disclosure has been prepared in line with Wessex Retail’s annual accounts made up 26 September 2025

Reporting method - Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions reporting is in line with the GHG Protocol - Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard

Emissions factors - 2025 UK Government GHG Conversion Factors for Company Reporting:
https://www.gov.uk/government /publications /greenhouse-gas-reporting -conversion -factors-2025

Calculation method - Activity data x Emissions factors = GHG emissions

Other relevant calculation information - Business travel data has been collected in miles and converted using the 2023 UK Government GHG emissions conversion factors as above

Intensity ratio rationale - The chosen metric best reflects our business performance based on the nature of our
business.
Page 7

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025


Streamlined Energy & Carbon Reporting (continued)

Energy Efficiency Actions

In the period covered by this disclosure Wessex Retail has continued to improve the energy efficiency of our operations and infrastructure, this includes:

- Consolidation of existing energy saving measures. This includes the continued implementation of planned maintenance for all refrigeration equipment and the replacement of life-expired equipment with energy-efficient units and controls.
- The rapid roll-out of SMART meters into all sites with traditional 'dumb' electric meters. Twenty-Seven SMART meters were installed across the group estate.
- A review of opening hours. This enabled a reduction in opening hours during 'out-of-season' periods, resulting in lower energy consumption in stores.
- A sales-to-cost review was carried out to identify where energy-intensive equipment could be removed or replaced with lower intensity units. This led to the removal or replacement of several ovens and hot cases, reducing energy use.


Disclosure of information to auditor

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

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

Post balance sheet events

In May 2026, following discussions that had been ongoing since the end of the 2025 financial year, the Company, it's parent company, Appleby Westward Group Ltd, and it's fellow subsidiary, Gillett's (Callington) Ltd, entered into an asset purchase agreement with a third party for the sale of certain assets and stores. The disposal is being completed in phases between June and September 2026.

In June 2026, Appleby Westward Group Ltd sold it's wholesale business, which was subsequently transferred to the purchaser. As of the reporting date, 41 retail stores owned by the Company and Gillett's (Callington) Ltd had also been sold and transferred to the purchaser. The Directors expect the remaining stages of the transaction to be completed before the end of the 2026 financial year.

This event is considered a non-adjusting event under IAS 10 Events after the Reporting Period, as it does not provide evidence of conditions that existed at the reporting date. Accordingly, no adjustment has been made to the financial statements; however, this matter has been disclosed due to its potential significance.

Auditor

The auditor, KPMGwill be proposed for reappointment in accordance with  Section 487 of the Companies Act 2006.

Page 8

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

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



J Keohane
Director
Date: 29 July 2026
Moorlands Trading Estate
Saltash
PL126LX
England
Page 9

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
STATEMENT OF DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITIES STATEMENT IN RESPECT OF THE DIRECTORS' REPORT AND THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

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 Financial Reporting Standard 101 ‘Reduced Disclosure Framework’. 
 
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 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  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  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.

The Directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial information included on the Company's website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of  and other information included in Directors' Reports may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.



Page 10

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 


Report on the audit of the financial statements

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Wessex Retail Limited (‘‘the Company’’) for the year ended 26 September 2025, set out on pages 15 to 37, which comprise the statement of profit and loss account and other comprehensive income, the balance sheet, the statement of changes in equity and the related notes, including the summary of significant accounting policies set out in note 1. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is UK law and FRS 101 Reduced Disclosure Framework.

In our opinion: 
 
the financial statements give a true and fair view of the state of the Company’s affairs as at 26 September 2025 and of its loss for the year then ended; 
the financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with FRS 101 Reduced Disclosure Framework issued by the UK’s Financial Reporting Council; and
the financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements section of our report. We are independent of the company in accordance with ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of financial statements in the UK, including the Financial Reporting Council (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

The directors have prepared the financial statements on the going concern basis as they do not intend to liquidate the Company or to cease its operations, and as they have concluded that the Company’s financial position means that this is realistic. They have also concluded that there are no material uncertainties that could have cast significant doubt over its ability to continue as a going concern for at least a year from the date of approval of the financial statements (“the going concern period”).

In our evaluation of the directors' conclusions, we considered the inherent risks to the Company’s business model and analysed how those risks might affect the Company’s financial resources or ability to continue operations over the going concern period.

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 the date when the financial statements are authorised for issue. 

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the directors with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.
Page 11

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 

Report on the audit of the financial statements (continued)

Conclusions relating to going concern (continued)

However, as we cannot predict all future events or conditions and as subsequent events may result in outcomes that are inconsistent with judgements that were reasonable at the time they were made, the absence of reference to a material uncertainty in this auditor's report is not a guarantee that the Company will continue in operation.

Detecting irregularities including fraud

We identified the areas of laws and regulations that could reasonably be expected to have a material effect on the financial statements and risks of material misstatement due to fraud, using our understanding of the entity's industry, regulatory environment and other external factors and inquiry with the directors. In addition, our risk assessment procedures included: inquiring with the directors as to the Company’s policies and procedures regarding compliance with laws and regulations and prevention and detection of fraud; inquiring whether the directors have knowledge of any actual or suspected non-compliance with laws or regulations or alleged fraud; inspecting the Company’s regulatory and legal correspondence; and reading Board minutes.

We discussed identified laws and regulations, fraud risk factors and the need to remain alert among the audit team.

The Company is subject to laws and regulations that directly affect the financial statements including companies and financial reporting legislation. We assessed the extent of compliance with these laws and regulations as part of our procedures on the related financial statement items, including assessing the financial statement disclosures and agreeing them to supporting documentation when necessary. 

The company, is not subject to other laws and regulations where the consequences of non-compliance could have a material effect on amounts or disclosures in the financial statements.

Auditing standards limit the required audit procedures to identify non-compliance with these non-direct laws and regulations to inquiry of the directors and other management and inspection of regulatory and legal correspondence, if any. These limited procedures did not identify actual or suspected non-compliance.

We assessed events or conditions that could indicate an incentive or pressure to commit fraud or provide an opportunity to commit fraud. As required by auditing standards, we performed procedures to address the risk of management override of controls and the risk of fraudulent revenue recognition. We did not identify any additional fraud risks.

In response to risk of fraud, we also performed procedures including: identifying journal entries to test based on risk criteria and comparing the identified entries to supporting documentation; evaluating the business purpose of significant unusual transactions; assessing significant accounting estimates for bias; and assessing the disclosures in the financial statements.

Owing to the inherent limitations of an audit, there is an unavoidable risk that we may not have detected some material misstatements in the financial statements, even though we have properly planned and performed our audit in accordance with auditing standards. For example, the further removed non-compliance with laws and regulations (irregularities) is from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, the less likely the inherently limited procedures required by auditing standards would identify it. 

In addition, as with any audit, there remains a higher risk of non-detection of irregularities, as these may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal controls. We are not responsible for preventing non-compliance and cannot be expected to detect non-compliance with all laws and regulations.
Page 12

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 

Report on the audit of the financial statements (continued)

Other information

The directors are responsible for the other information presented in the Annual Report together with the financial statements. The other information comprises the information included in the directors’ report. The financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon do not comprise part of the other information.  Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion or, except as explicitly stated below, any form of assurance conclusion thereon. 

Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether, based on our financial statements audit work, the information therein is materially misstated or inconsistent with the financial statements or our audit knowledge.  Based solely on that work we have not identified material misstatements in the other information.

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

Based solely on our work on the other information undertaken during the the course of audit;
 
we have not identified material misstatements in the directors report or the strategic report;
in our opinion, the information given in the directors’ report and the strateigc report are consistent with the financial statements;
in our opinion, the directors’ report and the strategic report have been prepared in accordance with the Companies Act 2006. 

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

Under the Companies Act 2006 we are required 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; or
the directors were not entitled to prepare the financial statements in accordance with the small
      companies regime.

We have nothing to report in regard to these respects.

Respective responsibilities and restrictions on use

Responsibilities of directors for the financial statements

As explained more fully in the directors’ responsibilities statement set out on page 10, the directors are responsible for: the preparation of the financial statements including being satisfied that they give a true and fair view; such internal control as they determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; 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 they either intend to liquidate the company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
Page 13

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 


Respective responsibilities and restrictions on use(continued)

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, other irregularities or error, and to issue an opinion in an auditor's report. 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, other irregularities 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 fuller description of our responsibilities is provided on FRC's website at;
 www.frc.org.uk/auditresponsibilities.

The purpose of our audit work and to whom we owe our responsibilities
 
Our 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.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            



Keith Watt (Senior statutory auditor)      Date:30 July 2026

  
for and on behalf of

KPMG                                                                    
Chartered Accountants, Statutory Audit Firm
1 Stokes Place
St. Stephens Green
Dublin 2
Ireland
Page 14

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
STATEMENT OF PROFIT AND LOSS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

2025
2024
Note
£000
£000

  

Turnover
 4 
53,633
58,118

Cost of sales
  
(40,427)
(43,495)

Gross profit
  
13,206
14,623

Revenue other
 5 
778
724

Net operating expenses
 7 
(15,000)
(15,210)

Exceptional items
 11 
(884)
(8,895)

Operating loss
 6 
(1,900)
(8,758)

Interest receivable and similar income
 12 
3
4

Interest payable and similar expenses
 13 
(827)
(865)

Loss before tax
  
(2,724)
(9,619)

Tax on loss
 14 
475
1

Loss for the financial year
  
(2,249)
(9,618)

There was no other comprehensive income for 2025 (2024:£NIL).

The notes on pages 18 to 37 form part of these financial statements.

Page 15

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
REGISTERED NUMBER:12205715

BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

26 September
30 September
2025
2024
Note
£000
£000

  

Intangible assets
 15 
3
5

Tangible assets
 16 
20,495
22,019

  
20,498
22,024

Current assets
  

Stocks
 17 
3,138
4,236

Debtors
 18 
705
834

Bank and cash balances
  
40
22

  
3,883
5,092

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
 19 
(18,444)
(17,734)

Net current liabilities
  
(14,561)
(12,642)

Total assets less current liabilities
  
5,937
9,382

  

Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year
 20 
(18,305)
(19,026)

  
(12,368)
(9,644)

Deferred taxation
 23 
(21)
(496)

Net liabilities
  
(12,389)
(10,140)


Capital and reserves
  

Called up share capital 
 24 
4
4

Profit and loss account
  
(12,393)
(10,144)

Shareholder's deficit
  
(12,389)
(10,140)


The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the board and were signed on its behalf on 29 July 2026.

J Keohane
Director

The notes on pages 18 to 37 form part of these financial statements.
Page 16

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025


Called up share capital
Profit and loss account
Total equity

£000
£000
£000


At 1 October 2023
4
(526)
(522)


Comprehensive loss for the year

Loss for the year
-
(9,618)
(9,618)



At 1 October 2024
4
(10,144)
(10,140)


Comprehensive loss for the year

Loss for the year
-
(2,249)
(2,249)


At 26 September 2025
4
(12,393)
(12,389)


The notes on pages 18 to 37 form part of these financial statements.
Page 17

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

1.Accounting policies

 
1.1

Basis of preparation of financial statements

The financial statements are presented in sterling and have been prepared under the historical cost convention unless otherwise specified within these accounting policies and in accordance with Financial Reporting Standard 101 'Reduced Disclosure Framework'  and the Companies Act 2006.

The preparation of financial statements in compliance with FRS 101 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 Company was, at the end of the period, a subsidiary of another company incorporated outside
the UK and in accordance with Section 401 of Companies Act 2006, is not required to produce, and
has not published, consolidated accounts.

 
1.2

Financial Reporting Standard 101 - reduced disclosure exemptions

In preparing these financial statements, the Company applies the recognition, measurement and disclosure requirements of UK-adopted international accounting standards (“UK-adopted IFRS”), but makes amendments where necessary in order to comply with Companies Act 2006 and has set out below where advantage of the FRS 101 disclosure exemptions has been taken. 
 

The Company has taken advantage of the following disclosure exemptions under FRS 101:
the requirements of paragraphs 62, B64(d), B64(e), B64(g), B64(h), B64(j) to B64(m), B64(n)(ii), B64(o)(ii), B64(p), B64(q)(ii), B66 and B67 of IFRS 3 Business Combinations
the requirements of paragraphs 91-99 of IFRS 13 Fair Value Measurement
the requirements of the second sentence of paragraph 110 and paragraphs 113(a), 114, 115, 118, 119(a) to (c), 120 to 127 and 129 of IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers
the requirements of paragraph 52, the second sentence of paragraph 89, and paragraphs 90, 91 and 93 of IFRS 16 Leases. The requirements of paragraph 58 of IFRS 16, provided that the disclosure of details in indebtedness relating to amounts payable after 5 years required by company law is presented separately for lease liabilities and other liabilities, and in total
the requirement in paragraph 38 of IAS 1 'Presentation of Financial Statements' to present comparative information in respect of:
 - paragraph 79(a)(iv) of IAS 1;
 - paragraph 73(e) of IAS 16 Property, Plant and Equipment;
 - paragraph 118(e) of IAS 38 Intangible Assets;
the requirements of paragraphs 10(d), 10(f), 16, 38A, 38B, 38C, 38D, 40A, 40B, 40C, 40D, 111 and 134-136 of IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements
the requirements of IAS 7 Statement of Cash Flows
the requirements of paragraphs 30 and 31 of IAS 8 Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors
the requirements of paragraph 17 and 18A of IAS 24 Related Party Disclosures
the requirements in IAS 24 Related Party Disclosures to disclose related party transactions entered into between two or more members of a group, provided that any subsidiary which is a party to the transaction is wholly owned by such a member

This information is included in the consolidated financial statements of The Spar Group Ltd as at 26 
Page 18

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

1.Accounting policies (continued)


1.2
Financial Reporting Standard 101 - reduced disclosure exemptions (continued)

September 2025 and these financial statements may be obtained from their website www.the spargroup.com.
 
Judgements made by the directors, in the application of these accounting policies that have significant effect on the financial statements and estimates with a significant risk of material adjustment in the next year are discussed in note 3.

The accounting policies set out below have, unless otherwise stated, been applied consistently to all periods presented in these financial statements.

 
1.3

Going concern

The Directors have reviewed the detailed five-year plan prepared by management. The cash flow projection underpins the going concern assessment and confirms that sufficient funding remains in place for a period of at least 12 months from the date of this report.

The board has reviewed the balance sheet as at 26 September 2025.

At year end, the Company is in a net liability position and as such has received a letter of financial support from BWG Group Unlimited Company undertaking to provide financial support to the Company for a period not less than twelve months from the date of these financial statements.

The Directors have a reasonable expectation that the Company has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future due to its group financing arrangements.

Based on the above reviews, the Company continues to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the financial statements.

 
1.4

Revenue from contracts with customers

Revenue from operation of retail stores

This represents revenue from the company's main trading activities being from the operation of retail convenience stores under the Spar brand.

Revenue is recognised net of value added tax (VAT), rebates, discounts and other allowances.  Revenue is only recognised to the extent that it is highly probable that a significant reversal will not occur.

Revenue – other 

Revenue – other mainly comprises marketing and service revenue. The revenue is recognised over time.

Marketing and promotional activities are recognised in terms of the relevant contractual arrangements. These relate to ancillary sales and services provided by the company. The company is satisfied that these services are distinct within the context of the relevant contracts.

Rental income in respect of operating leases is recognised on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
Page 19

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

1.Accounting policies (continued)

 
1.5

Leases

Right of use (ROU) assets include all categories of assets as described in the Tangible fixed asset note below. These ROU assets are measured at cost comprising of the initial measurement of the lease liability.

ROU assets are subsequently measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses and are depreciated over the shorter period between the lease term and the useful life of the asset on a straight line basis.

Where the Company head leases a property and enters into a sublease arrangement with a lessee, the company recognises a finance lease receivable rather than a right-of-use asset. 

Lease liabilities are initially measured at the present value of the lease payments that are due at the
commencement date, discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease. Where this cannot be
determined the lessee’s incremental borrowing rate is used. The incremental rate on all the property
leases is at 3-7%. All vehicles have applied the implicit rate which ranges from 3-7%.

Lease liabilities are subsequently measured at amortised cost and remeasured when there is a change in future lease payments arising from a change in term or if the Company changes its assessment on whether it will exercise a purchase, extension or termination option at the end of the contract.

The Company has applied the use of a single discount rate to each portfolio of leases that have reasonably similar terms, underlying assets and economic circumstances. 

The Company has continued to account for leases with remaining lease terms of less than 12 months, where no ROU asset is recognised and lease payments are recognised as an expense in profit or loss.

Practical expedients

The Company will apply a practical expedient available in the standard not to account for new leases which have an underlying asset value of approximately £5,000. These will remain in the profit and loss and other comprehensive income as rental charges.

 
1.6

Other 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.

Page 20

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

1.Accounting policies (continued)

 
1.7

Goodwill

Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of a business combination over the total acquisition date fair value of the identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities acquired.

Cost comprises the fair value of assets given, liabilities assumed and equity instruments issued.

When a business combination agreement provides for an adjustment to the cost of the combination which is contingent on future events, the company includes the estimated amount of that adjustment in the cost of the combination at the acquisition date if the adjustment is probable and can be measured reliably. However, if the potential adjustment is not recognised at the acquisition date but subsequently becomes probable and can be measured reliably, the additional consideration shall be treated as an adjustment to the cost of the combination. Changes in the estimated value of contingent consideration arising on business combinations completed as a consequence result in a change in the carrying value of the related goodwill.

Goodwill is capitalised as an intangible asset and is not amortised. Instead it is reviewed annually for impairment with any impairment in carrying value being charged to profit or loss. The Companies Act 2006 requires acquired goodwill to be reduced by provisions for depreciation calculated to write off the amount systematically over a period chosen by the directors, not exceeding its useful economic life. It has been deemed, however, the non-amortisation of goodwill is a departure, for the overriding purpose of giving a true and fair view. The effect of this departure has not been quantified because it is impracticable and, in the opinion of the directors, would be misleading.

  
1.8

Business combinations

Business combinations are accounted for by applying the acquisition method. Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method as at the acquisition date, which is the date on which control is transferred to the Company.

For acquisitions , the Company measures goodwill at the acquisition date as:

• the fair value of the consideration (excluding contingent consideration) transferred; plus
• the estimated amount of contingent consideration (see below); plus
• the recognised amount of any non-controlling interests in the acquiree; plus
• the fair value of the existing equity interest in the acquiree; less
• the net recognised amount (generally fair value) of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities
assumed.

When the excess is negative, this is recognised and separately disclosed on the face of the balance
sheet as negative goodwill.

Costs related to the acquisition, other than those associated with the issue of debt or equity
securities, are expensed as incurred.

Any contingent consideration on balances arising in the periods beginning on or after is recognised at fair value at the acquisition date. If the contingent consideration is classified as equity, it is not
remeasured and the settlement is accounted for within equity. Otherwise, subsequent changes to the fair value of the contingent consideration are recognised in profit or loss.

Page 21

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

1.Accounting policies (continued)

 
1.9

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.

At each reporting date the Company assesses whether there is any indication of impairment. If such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is determined which is the higher of its fair value less costs to sell and its value in use. An impairment loss is recognised where the carrying amount exceeds the recoverable amount.

The Company adds to the carrying amount of an item of fixed assets the cost of replacing part of such an item when that cost is incurred, if the replacement part is expected to provide incremental future benefits to the Company. The carrying amount of the replaced part is derecognised. Repairs and maintenance are charged to profit or loss during the period in which they are incurred.

Land is not depreciated. Depreciation on other assets 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
-
Depreciated over the life of the lease
Motor vehicles
-
Depreciated over the life of the lease
Fixture and fititngs
-
12.5% 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.

 
1.10

Impairment of fixed assets and goodwill

Assets that are subject to depreciation or amortisation are assessed at each balance sheet date to determine whether there is any indication that the assets are impaired. Where there is any indication that an asset may be impaired, the carrying value of the asset (or cash-generating unit to which the asset has been allocated) is tested for impairment. An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset's carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset's (or CGU's) fair value less costs to sell and value in use. For the purposes of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable cash flows (CGUs). Non-financial assets that have been previously impaired are reviewed at each balance sheet date to assess whether there is any indication that the impairment losses recognised in prior periods may no longer exist or may have decreased.

 
1.11

Stocks

Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost is based on the first-in first-out principle and includes expenditure incurred in acquiring the stocks, production or conversion costs and other costs in bringing them to their existing location and condition.

Page 22

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

1.Accounting policies (continued)

 
1.12

Debtors

Trade and other debtors are recognised initially at fair value. Subsequent to initial recognition they are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less any impairment losses.

 
1.13

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.

 
1.14

Financial instruments

The Company recognises financial instruments when it becomes a party to the contractual arrangements of the instrument. Financial instruments are de-recognised when they are discharged or when the contractual terms expire. The Company's accounting policies in respect of financial instruments transactions are explained below:

Financial assets and financial liabilities are initially measured at fair value. 

Financial assets

All recognised financial assets are subsequently measured in their entirety at either fair value or amortised cost, depending on the classification of the financial assets.

Financial liabilities

Financial liabilities include trade payables, amounts owed to group undertakings, other creditors, lease liabilities and accruals.

 
1.15

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.

Finance costs include interest paid or accrued on finance lease payables as described in financial instruments accounting policy.

 
1.16

Employee benefits

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 23

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

1.Accounting policies (continued)

 
1.17

Interest income

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

 
1.18

Current and deferred taxation

The tax expense for the period 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.


 
1.19

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.


General information

Wessex Retail Limited (the "Company") is a private limited company incorporated, registered and domiciled in the United Kingdom. The registered number is 12205715 and its registered office is located at Moorlands Trading Estate, Saltash, Cornwall, PL12 6LX.

Page 24

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

3.


Judgements in applying accounting policies and key sources of estimation uncertainty

The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with FRS 101 requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimates are revised and in any future periods affected.

(a)
 Application of IFRS 16 Leases

The Company uses judgement in determining the lease term and, therefore, the discount rate applied in calculating the right of use asset and lease liability. In determining the lease term, the Company has considered the current economic conditions and other relevant factors in assessing whether it is likely the lease will be extended or whether a break option will be availed of. The discount rate is determined based on the incremental borrowing rate, which is most sensitive to the lease term and currency, determined per lease or portfolio of leases. 

(b)
 Provision for inventory obsolescence

The provision for net realisable value of inventory represents management’s estimate of the extent to which inventory on hand at the reporting date will be sold below cost. This estimate takes into consideration past trends, evidence of impairment at year end and an assessment of future saleability.

(c)   
  Impairment of goodwill

The Company has significant carrying value of goodwill held on the balance sheet. Impairment exists when the carrying value of an asset or cash generating unit exceeds its recoverable amount, which is the higher of its fair value less costs to sell and its value in use. The fair value less costs to sell calculation is based on available data from binding sales transactions in arm’s length transactions of similar assets or observable market prices less incremental costs for disposing of the asset. The value in use calculation is based on a discounted cash flow model where the determination of key assumptions requires judgement.

(d)
 Key sources of estimation uncertainty

There are no key assumptions concerning the future and other key sources of estimation uncertainty at the statement of financial position date that management has assessed as having a significant risk of causing material adjustment to the carrying amounts of the assets and liabilities within the next financial period.

Page 25

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

4.


Revenue from contracts with customers

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


2025
2024
£000
£000

Operation of retail convenience stores
53,633
58,118

53,633
58,118


Analysis of turnover by country of destination:

2025
2024
£000
£000

United Kingdom
53,633
58,118

53,633
58,118



5.


Revenue other

2025
2024
£000
£000

Rent receivable
183
181

Revenue other
595
543

778
724



6.


Operating loss

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

2025
2024
£000
£000

Depreciation of tangible fixed assets (see note 18)
2,357
2,249

Amortisation - intangible fixed assets
2
-

Loss on disposal of fixed assets
16
-

Rent payable
56
72

Staff pension costs - defined contribution schemes
106
104

Page 26

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

7.


Net Operating expenses

2025
2024
£000
£000



Marketing and Selling expenses
13,447
13,386

Administrative expenses
1,553
1,824

15,000
15,210


8.


Auditors' remuneration

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


2025
2024
£000
£000

Auditors' remuneration
37
21

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


9.


Employees

Staff costs were as follows:


2025
2024
£000
£000

Staff salaries
8,166
8,393

Social security costs
572
426

Cost of defined contribution scheme
106
104

8,844
8,923


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


        2025
        2024
            No.
            No.







Marketing, selling and distribution
240
400



Administration
8
8

248
408

Page 27

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

10.


Directors' remuneration

The Directors received no emoluments in the year ended 30 September 2025 (2024: £Nil). The Directors
emoluments were borne by another entity.





11.


Exceptional items

2025
2024
£000
£000


Acquisition costs
-
8

Impairment of intangible assets
-
8,887

Writedown of stock
832
-

Termination costs
52
-

884
8,895


12.


Interest receivable

2025
2024
£000
£000


Interest on financial assets
3
4

3
4


13.


Interest payable and similar expenses

2025
2024
£000
£000


Interest on lease liabilities
827
865

827
865

Page 28

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

14.


Taxation


2025
2024
£000
£000



Deferred tax


Origination and reversal of timing differences
(487)
20

Prior year adjustments
12
(21)

Total deferred tax
(475)
(1)


Taxation on loss on ordinary activities
(475)
(1)

Factors affecting tax charge for the year

The tax assessed for the year differs from (2024: differs from) the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 25.0% (2024: 25.0%). The differences are explained below:

2025
2024
£000
£000


Loss on ordinary activities before tax
(2,724)
(9,619)


Loss on ordinary activities multiplied by standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 25% (2024 - 25%)
(681)
(2,405)

Effects of:


Expenses non deductible for tax purposes
194
2,037

Prior year adjustment in Deferred tax
12
(21)

Group relief
-
388

Total tax charge for the year
(475)
(1)


Factors that may affect future tax charges

There were no factors that may affect future tax charges.

Page 29

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

15.


Intangible assets






Computer software

£000



Cost


At 1 October 2024
5



At 26 September 2025

5



Amortisation


Charge for the year on owned assets
2



At 26 September 2025

2



Net book value



At 26 September 2025
3



At 30 September 2024
5




Page 30

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

16.


Tangible fixed assets


Long-term leasehold property
Motor vehicles
Fixtures and fittings
Total

£000
£000
£000
£000



Cost or valuation


At 1 October 2024
23,838
6
4,425
28,269


Additions/modifcations
795
-
193
988


Disposals
(188)
(6)
-
(194)



At 26 September 2025

24,445
-
4,618
29,063



Depreciation


At 1 October 2024
4,303
4
1,943
6,250


Charge for the year on owned assets
110
-
889
999


Charge for the year on right-of-use assets
1,358
-
-
1,358


Disposals
(35)
(4)
-
(39)



At 26 September 2025

5,736
-
2,832
8,568



Net book value



At 26 September 2025
18,709
-
1,786
20,495



At 30 September 2024
19,535
2
2,482
22,019


The net book value of owned and leased assets included as "Tangible fixed assets" in the Balance Sheet is as follows:

26 September
30 September
2025
2024
£000
£000


Tangible fixed assets owned
2,548
3,171

Right-of-use tangible fixed assets
17,947
18,848

20,495
22,019

Page 31

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

           16.Tangible fixed assets (continued)

Information about right-of-use assets is summarised below:

Net book value

26 September
30 September
2025
2024
£000
£000

Property
17,947
18,847

Plant and machinery
-
1

17,947
18,848

Depreciation charge for the year/period

26 September
30 September
2025
2024
£000
£000

Property
1,358
1,349

Plant and machinery
-
1

1,358
1,350


17.


Stocks

26 September
30 September
2025
2024
£000
£000

Finished goods and goods for resale
3,138
4,236

3,138
4,236



Page 32

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

18.


Debtors


26 September
30 September
2025
2024
£000
£000

Due after more than one year

Interest bearing assets
40
49

40
49

Due within one year

Trade debtors
6
2

Other debtors
416
379

Prepayments and accrued income
243
395

Interest bearing assets
-
9

705
834



19.


Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year

26 September
30 September
2025
2024
£000
£000

Trade creditors
898
860

Amounts owed to group undertakings
15,079
14,178

Other taxation and social security
461
517

Lease liabilities
1,119
1,001

Other creditors
492
578

Accruals and deferred income
395
600

18,444
17,734


26 September
30 September
2025
2024
£000
£000

Other taxation and social security

PAYE/NI control
102
168

VAT control
359
349

461
517


Page 33

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

20.


Creditors: Amounts falling due after more than one year

26 September
30 September
2025
2024
£000
£000

Lease liabilities
18,305
19,026

18,305
19,026



21.

Leases

Company as a lessee

The companys' leases consist of properties and vehicles.

Lease liabilities are due as follows:

2025
2024
£000
£000

Not later than one year
1,119
1,001

Between one year and five years
5,095
4,698

Later than five years
13,210
14,327

19,424
20,026


The following amounts in respect of leases, where the Company is a lessee, have been recognised in profit or loss:

2025
2024
£000
£000

Interest expense on lease liabilities
827
865

Page 34

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

22.


Financial instruments

26 September
30 September
2025
2024
£000
£000

Financial assets


Financial assets measured at fair value through profit or loss
462
454


Financial liabilities


Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost
(35,765)
(36,245)


Financial assets measured at amortised cost comprise of cash at bank, interest bearing assets, trade receivables and other receivables.


Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost comprise of trade payables, amounts owed to group undertakings, other creditors, lease liabilities and accruals.


23.


Deferred taxation






2025


£000






At beginning of year
(496)


Utilised in year
475



At end of year
(21)

The provision for deferred taxation is made up as follows:

26 September
30 September
2025
2024
£000
£000


Fixed assets timing differences
(21)
(537)

Retirement benefits
-
18

Provisions
-
23

(21)
(496)

Page 35

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

24.


Share capital

26 September
30 September
2025
2024
£000
£000
Authorised



2,050 (2024 - 2,050) Ordinary shares of £1.00 each
2
2
2,000 (2024 - 2,000) A Ordinary shares of £1.00 each
2
2
50 (2024 - 50) B Ordinary shares of £1.00 each
-
-

4

4

Allotted, called up and partly paid



2,050 (2024 - 2,050) Ordinary shares of £1.00 each
2
2
2,000 (2024 - 2,000) A Ordinary shares of £1.00 each
2
2
50 (2024 - 50) B Ordinary shares of £1.00 each
-
-

4

4

The Ordinary and "A" Ordinary shares each are entitled to the holder thereof to receive notice of and to
attend, speak and vote at General Meetings of the company.

The "B" Ordinary shares shall confer on holders no rights to receive notice of or to attend, speak or vote
at any general meeting of the company or by written resolution.



25.


Capital commitments

The company had capital commitments of £Nil as at 26 September 2025 (2023: £Nil).


26.


Contingent liabilities

The company and certain of its fellow subsidiaries have unconditionally, jointly and severally guaranteed up to €247m (2024: €250m) of Senior Credit Facilities together with outstanding interest thereon. The actual contingent liability at 26 September 2025 was €129m (2024: €133m).

27.


Financial guarantees

The Company participates in a cross-guarantee arrangement under the Parent’s group financing structure for borrowings advanced by third parties outside of the Parent Group. Guarantees provided by the Company under these arrangements have been classified as financial guarantee contracts and are treated as financial instruments. These are measured initially at fair value and thereafter at the higher of (i) any expected credit loss allowance and (ii) the initial fair value amount recognised less any cumulative amount recognised in income. The Company is a beneficiary under the Parent’s group financing arrangements. The Company has estimated the fair value of the guarantees to be immaterial.

Page 36

 
WESSEX RETAIL LIMITED
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 26 SEPTEMBER 2025

28.


Post balance sheet events

In May 2026, following discussions that had been ongoing since the end of the 2025 financial year, the Company, it's parent company, Appleby Westward Group Ltd, and it's fellow subsidiary, Gillett's (Callington) Ltd, entered into an asset purchase agreement with a third party for the sale of certain assets and stores. The disposal is being completed in phases between June and September 2026.

In June 2026, Appleby Westward Group Ltd sold it's wholesale business, which was subsequently transferred to the purchaser. As of the reporting date, 41 retail stores owned by the Company and Gillett's (Callington) Ltd had also been sold and transferred to the purchaser. The Directors expect the remaining stages of the transaction to be completed before the end of the 2026 financial year.

This event is considered a non-adjusting event under IAS 10 Events after the Reporting Period, as it does not provide evidence of conditions that existed at the reporting date. Accordingly, no adjustment has been made to the financial statements; however, this matter has been disclosed due to its potential significance.


29.


Controlling party

The Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Appleby Westward Group Limited, a company incorporated in England and Wales. The company's ultimate parent undertaking is The Spar Group Limited, a company incorporated in South Africa. The registered office is The Umhlanga Arch, 1 Ncondo Place, Umhlanga Ridge, Durban, 4320, South Africa.

The Spar Group Limited include the Company in its consolidated financial statements which are prepared in accordance with the relevant accounting standards, The consolidated financial statements are available to the public and may be obtained from their website www.spar.co.za.

Page 37