Company registration number 09616425 (England and Wales)
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
COMPANY INFORMATION
Directors
S F Kelly
A D Liddle
K S Yeardley
M D Craddock
(Appointed 1 April 2026)
Secretary
I Owens
Company number
09616425
Registered office
127-129 Devonshire Street
Sheffield
South Yorkshire
England
S3 7SB
Auditor
Marriott Gibbs Rees Wallis Limited
First Floor
Unit 4 Broadfield Court
Sheffield
South Yorkshire
S8 0XF
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
CONTENTS
Page
Strategic report
1
Directors' report
2 - 3
Independent auditor's report
4 - 6
Statement of income and retained earnings
7
Balance sheet
8
Statement of cash flows
9
Notes to the financial statements
10 - 21
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
STRATEGIC REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
- 1 -
The directors present the strategic report for the year ended 30 September 2025.
Review of the business
Total sales on a 12 month like-for-like basis shows an increase of £235k, or +1.9%. £13m of sales equates to average weekly sales of £22.7k per site. We had 11 trading sites throughout the year, with site #12 added at the year end.
Profit on the cost of food and beverages was 71.1% compared to 67.0% last year excluding wages, consumables, till variances and staff bonuses. This has been driven by a 4 year renewal of our supply contract with Molson Coors. Also, food margins have improved by 1% on last year.
We have 282 staff at the year end (2024 : 291). Direct wages costs (excluding bonuses) as a percentage of sales were 40.8% compared to 43.5% despite large increases in the NMW and Employer NI in April 2025.
Site level EBITDA is £1.2m (2024 : £0.5m), an average of £111k per site.
Company EBITDA after central costs is +£84k compared to -£594k last year.
We have invested £259k in sites this year, including the following upgrades:
At the year end, True North had 12 trading sites.
Principal risks and uncertainties
The principal risks and uncertainties facing the Company are as follows:
- Liquidity
- Supply chain pressures
- Rising cost prices including food prices
- Increase in national minimum wage and salaries
- Staff leaving the hospitality industry
- Performance of venues
- Energy costs
- Cost of living pressures impacting demand
- War in Ukraine
- Rising and unpredictable threat from Iran
The principal risks and uncertainties faced by the Company are the same as other businesses within this sector. The directors continually monitor the key risks to the Company and assess the controls in place for managing these risks.
K S Yeardley
Director
14 August 2026
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
DIRECTORS' REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
- 2 -
The directors present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 30 September 2025.
Principal activities
The principal activity of the company continued to be that of managing public houses and bars.
Results and dividends
The results for the year are set out on page 7.
No ordinary dividends were paid. The directors do not recommend payment of a final dividend.
Directors
The directors who held office during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were as follows:
S F Kelly
A D Liddle
K S Yeardley
M D Craddock
(Appointed 1 April 2026)
Disabled persons
Applications for employment by disabled persons are always fully considered, bearing in mind the aptitudes of the applicant concerned. In the event of members of staff becoming disabled, every effort is made to ensure that their employment within the company continues and that the appropriate training is arranged. It is the policy of the company that the training, career development and promotion of disabled persons should, as far as possible, be identical to that of other employees.
Employee involvement
The company's policy is to consult and discuss with employees, through unions, staff councils and at meetings, matters likely to affect employees' interests.
Information about matters of concern to employees is given through information bulletins and reports which seek to achieve a common awareness on the part of all employees of the financial and economic factors affecting the company's performance.
Future developments
True North site #12 - Abbeydale Ballroom opened in October 2025 after a joint True North & landlord investment of £450k. Since October it has exceeded expectations and we expect the site to contribute over £120k of EBITDA in it’s first full year. The remaining floors within Abbeydale Picture House are planned to be developed over the next 2-3 years, grants permitting.
In January, we invested in a refurbishment “sparkle” at the Waggon & Horses. We have seen an uplift in sales since re-opening.
True North had its most successful Christmas ever, with record sales and profitability in December 2025.
True North beers & gin have been outsourced to local partners – Triple Point Brewery & Locksley Gin.
Sean Kelly stepped down from the Finance Director role at the end of March 2026 but stays on as Non-Exec Director. Marc Craddock joined the business as Venues Director in April 2026.
Statement of directors' responsibilities
The directors are responsible for preparing the annual report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations.
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
- 3 -
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 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; and
prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the company will continue in business.
The directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the company’s transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They 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.
Statement of disclosure to auditor
So far as each person who was a director at the date of approving this report is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the company’s auditor is unaware. Additionally, the directors individually have taken all the necessary steps that they ought to have taken as directors in order to make themselves aware of all relevant audit information and to establish that the company’s auditor is aware of that information.
On behalf of the board
K S Yeardley
Director
14 August 2026
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
TO THE MEMBER OF TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
- 4 -
Opinion
We have audited the financial statements of True North Brew Co Ltd (the 'company') for the year ended 30 September 2025 which comprise the statement of income and retained earnings, the balance sheet, the 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 company's affairs as at 30 September 2025 and of its loss 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 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.
Material uncertainty related to going concern
We draw attention to the going concern disclosures in Note 1.2 to the financial statements, which refers to the directors consideration of factors impacting the entity. In the year ended 30 September 2025 the entity made a net loss of £46,776 (2024 : £609,804) and as at the balance sheet date the entity's liabilities exceeded its total assets by £656,578. The net liabilities indicate that a material uncertainty exists that may cast significant doubt on the entity's ability to continue as a going concern. Our opinion is not modified in respect of this matter.
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. Our evaluation of the directors assessment of the entity's ability to continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting included review of their plans and forecasts, profitability and cash flows since the balance sheet date.
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.
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
TO THE MEMBER OF TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD (CONTINUED)
- 5 -
Matters on which we are required to report by exception
In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the strategic report or the directors' report.
We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:
adequate accounting records have not been kept, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or
the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or
certain disclosures of directors' remuneration specified by law are not made; or
we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.
Responsibilities of directors
As explained more fully in the directors' responsibilities statement, the directors are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, the directors are responsible for assessing the company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
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.
Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud.
The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is detailed below.
We obtained a general understanding of the legal and regulatory framework applicable to the company and the industry in which it operates and considered the risk of acts by the company that were contrary to applicable laws and regulations, including fraud.
We evaluated the Directors' incentives and opportunities for fraudulent manipulation of the financial statements (including the risk of override of controls) and determined that the principal risks were related to posting manual journal entries to manipulate financial performance, management bias through judgements and assumptions in significant accounting estimates and significant one-off or unusual transactions.
Our audit procedures were designed to respond to those identified risks, including non-compliance with laws and regulations (irregularities) and fraud that are material to the financial statements. Our audit procedures included but were not limited to:
Discussing with the directors their policies and procedures regarding compliance with laws and regulations;
Communicating identified laws and regulations throughout our engagement team and remaining alert to any indications of non-compliance throughout our audit;
Enquiry of management, those charged with governance where necessary around actual and potential litigation and claims;
Reviewing financial statement disclosures and testing to supporting documentation to assess compliance with applicable laws and regulations;
Considering the risk of acts by the company which were contrary to applicable laws and regulations, including fraud; and
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
TO THE MEMBER OF TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD (CONTINUED)
- 6 -
Auditing the risk of management override of controls, including through testing journal entries and other adjustments for appropriateness, and evaluating the business rationale of significant transactions outside the normal course of business.
Our audit procedures in relation to fraud included but were not limited to:
Making enquiries of the directors on whether they had knowledge of any actual, suspected or alleged fraud;
Gaining an understanding of the internal controls established to mitigate risks related to fraud;
Discussing amongst the engagement team the risks of fraud;
Addressing the risks of fraud through management override of controls by reviewing transactions around the end of the reporting period and by testing the appropriateness of journals and other adjustments;
Performing analytical procedures to identify unexpected changes or movements to account balances which may be indicative fraud;
Assessing whether the judgements made in making accounting estimates are indicative of any potential bias; and
Evaluating the business rationale of any significant transactions that are unusual or outside the normal course of business.
There are inherent limitations in the audit procedures described above and the primary responsibility for the prevention and detection of irregularities including fraud rests with management. Our audit procedures were designed to respond to risks of material misstatement in the financial statements, recognising that the risk of not detecting a material misstatement due to fraud is higher than the risk of not detecting one resulting from error, as fraud may involve deliberate concealment by, for example, misrepresentations, forgery, intentional omissions, collusion, or the override of internal controls.
The further removed non-compliance with laws and regulations is from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, the less likely we are to become aware of it.
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.
Other matters which we are required to address
The comparative financial statements were not audited. This does not affect our auditor's opinion on the financial statements but we are informing all stakeholders about the audit status of the prior period financial statements.
This report is made solely to the company's member 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 member those matters we are required to state to the member 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 member, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.
Alan Pickstone FCCA (Senior Statutory Auditor)
For and on behalf of Marriott Gibbs Rees Wallis Limited, Statutory Auditor
Chartered Certified Accountants
First Floor
Unit 4 Broadfield Court
Sheffield
South Yorkshire
S8 0XF
19 August 2026
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
STATEMENT OF INCOME AND RETAINED EARNINGS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
- 7 -
Unaudited period
Year ended
1 July 2023 to
30 September
30 September
2025
2024
Notes
£
£
Turnover
13,092,533
14,725,845
Cost of sales
(9,385,981)
(11,014,419)
Gross profit
3,706,552
3,711,426
Administrative expenses
(3,734,143)
(4,301,638)
Operating loss
3
(27,591)
(590,212)
Interest receivable and similar income
6
1
1,837
Interest payable and similar expenses
7
(19,186)
(21,429)
Loss before taxation
(46,776)
(609,804)
Tax on loss
8
Loss for the financial year
(46,776)
(609,804)
Retained earnings brought forward
(609,804)
Retained earnings carried forward
(656,580)
(609,804)
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT
30 SEPTEMBER 2025
30 September 2025
- 8 -
2025
2024 Unaudited
Notes
£
£
£
£
Fixed assets
Goodwill
9
3
3
Other intangible assets
9
9,167
14,167
Tangible assets
10
576,044
423,138
585,214
437,308
Current assets
Stocks
11
207,635
192,678
Debtors
12
304,599
286,081
Cash at bank and in hand
160,977
254,645
673,211
733,404
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
13
(1,915,003)
(1,780,514)
Net current liabilities
(1,241,792)
(1,047,110)
Net liabilities
(656,578)
(609,802)
Capital and reserves
Called up share capital
15
2
2
Profit and loss reserves
(656,580)
(609,804)
Total equity
(656,578)
(609,802)
The notes on pages 10 to 21 form part of these financial statements.
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 14 August 2026 and are signed on its behalf by:
K S Yeardley
Director
Company registration number 09616425 (England and Wales)
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
- 9 -
2025
2024 Unaudited
Notes
£
£
£
£
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash generated from operations
20
184,837
707,829
Interest paid
(19,186)
(21,429)
Net cash inflow from operating activities
165,651
686,400
Investing activities
Purchase of intangible assets
(20,004)
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
(259,320)
(498,589)
Proceeds from disposal of tangible fixed assets
84,999
Interest received
1
1,837
Net cash used in investing activities
(259,319)
(431,757)
Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents
(93,668)
254,643
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
254,645
2
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
160,977
254,645
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
- 10 -
1
Accounting policies
Company information
True North Brew Co Ltd is a private company limited by shares incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is 127-129 Devonshire Street, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England, S3 7SB.
1.1
Basis of preparation
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
Going concern
These financial statements are prepared on the going concern basis. The directors have a reasonable expectation that the company will continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. However, the directors are aware of certain material uncertainties which may cause doubt on the company's ability to continue as a going concern.
The company prepare cash flow and management account information throughout the year which is updated to reflect changing circumstances.
At the end of September 2025 the Balance Sheet is in a net liabilities position, with negative total funds of £656,578 (2024: £609,802), due to this there is a high degree of uncertainty on the future performance and cash flows of the company.
The directors have reviewed the company's financing needs and also its exposures to credit risk and liquidity risk. Only necessary capital and refurbishment is undertaken at our venues in order to minimise spending. Small refurbishment "sparkles" at Crown & Anchor and Waggon & Horses were successful and we have seen sales growth as a result. We have undertaken a 6 month estate review and are committed to divest any loss making sites.
The company have a supportive landlord in the Pension Scheme. The Pension Scheme has agreed rent holidays where applicable and has funded the majority of site refurbishment costs.
We have focussed on achieving cost savings in drink & food margins, bar & kitchen labour. Our kitchen costs have reduced by subcontracting out Grindstone Kitchen, showing a £20,000 swing in YOY kitchen profitability. Forum & Common Room kitchens were combined saving £10,000 per annum. A 4 year Molson Coors contract has been agreed providing over £400k of annual support.
HMRC have also been supportive with time to pay arrangements with terms up to 12 months
The net liabilities position indicates that a material uncertainty exists which may cast some doubt on the company's ability to continue as a going concern.
1.3
Revenue
Turnover represents the fair value of the consideration received for goods and services sold in the normal course of business, net of discounts and value added tax.
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 11 -
The Company recognises revenue when:
The amount of revenue can be reliably measured;
it is probable that future economic benefits will flow to the entity;
and specific criteria have been met for each of the Company's activities.
The majority of the Company's revenue comprises food and beverage sales which are recognised at the point of sale.
Government grants
Government grants are included in the financial statements on a receivable basis. Where income is received in advance of meeting any performance related conditions and there is not unconditional entitlement to the income its recognition is deferred and included in creditors as deferred income. Where entitlement occurs before income is received the income is accrued.
1.4
Intangible fixed assets - goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of acquisition over the fair value of net assets acquired. It is initially recognised as an asset at cost and is subsequently measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill is considered to have a finite useful life and is amortised on a systematic basis over its expected life, which is 10 years.
For the purposes of impairment testing, goodwill is allocated to the cash-generating units expected to benefit from the acquisition. Cash-generating units to which goodwill has been allocated are tested for impairment at least annually, or more frequently when there is an indication that the unit may be impaired. If the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit is less than the carrying amount of the unit, the impairment loss is allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the unit and then to the other assets of the unit pro-rata on the basis of the carrying amount of each asset in the unit.
1.5
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:
Leases
over four years
1.6
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:
Plant and machinery
straight line over 5 to 10 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 credited or charged to profit or loss.
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 12 -
1.7
Impairment of fixed assets
At each reporting period end date, the company 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.
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.
1.8
Stocks
Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell. Cost is calculated on an average basis, with net realisable value being the estimated selling price, less any costs of disposal. Provision is made for obsolete, slow-moving and damaged stock where appropriate.
Bar and food stock is recognised as an expense when sold. Non-consumable stock is recognised immediately on receipt at each venue.
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.
1.9
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.
1.10
Financial instruments
The company 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 company's balance sheet when the company becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 13 -
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 company 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.
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 company 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.
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 14 -
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 company’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.
1.11
Equity instruments
Equity instruments issued by the company 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 company.
1.12
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 company’s liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting end date.
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.
1.13
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.
1.14
Retirement benefits
Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due.
1.15
Leases
As lessee
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 15 -
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 leases asset are consumed.
2
Judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty
In the application of the company’s accounting policies, the directors are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised 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.
3
Operating loss
2025
2024
Operating loss for the year is stated after charging/(crediting):
£
£
Fees payable to the company's auditor for the audit of the company's financial statements
21,330
Depreciation of tangible fixed assets
106,414
56,067
Profit on disposal of tangible fixed assets
-
(65,615)
Amortisation of intangible assets
5,000
5,834
Operating lease charges
900,513
966,783
4
Employees
The average monthly number of persons (including directors) employed by the company during the year was:
2025
2024
Number
Number
Bar Staff
192
199
Kitchen Staff
70
72
Adminstration and Support
20
20
Total
282
291
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
4
Employees
(Continued)
- 16 -
Their aggregate remuneration comprised:
2025
2024
£
£
Wages and salaries
5,377,978
6,334,405
Social security costs
480,130
525,331
Pension costs
84,301
100,803
5,942,409
6,960,539
5
Directors' remuneration
2025
2024
£
£
Remuneration for qualifying services
377,923
413,685
Company pension contributions to defined contribution schemes
4,055
4,574
381,978
418,259
Remuneration disclosed above include the following amounts paid to the highest paid director:
2025
2024
£
£
Remuneration for qualifying services
181,462
202,885
Company pension contributions to defined contribution schemes
1,352
1,525
6
Interest receivable and similar income
2025
2024
£
£
Interest income
Interest on bank deposits
1
1,837
2025
2024
Investment income includes the following:
£
£
Interest on financial assets not measured at fair value through profit or loss
1
1,837
7
Interest payable and similar expenses
2025
2024
£
£
Interest on financial liabilities measured at amortised cost
Other interest on financial liabilities
19,186
21,429
8
Taxation
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
8
Taxation
(Continued)
- 17 -
The actual charge for the year can be reconciled to the expected credit for the year based on the profit or loss and the standard rate of tax as follows:
2025
2024
£
£
Loss before taxation
(46,776)
(609,804)
Expected tax credit based on the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 25% (2024: 25%)
(11,694)
(152,451)
Effects of:
Expenses that are not deductible in determining taxable profit
169
10,651
Unutilised tax losses carried forward
52,593
226,783
Permanent capital allowances in excess of depreciation
(48,030)
(89,236)
Depreciation on assets not qualifying for tax allowances
5,712
6,533
Amortisation on assets not qualifying for tax allowances
1,250
1,459
Capital gains
12,665
Profit on non-qualifying assets
(16,404)
Taxation charge in the financial statements
-
-
9
Intangible fixed assets
Goodwill
Leases
Total
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 October 2024 and 30 September 2025
4
20,000
20,004
Amortisation and impairment
At 1 October 2024
1
5,833
5,834
Amortisation charged for the year
5,000
5,000
At 30 September 2025
1
10,833
10,834
Carrying amount
At 30 September 2025
3
9,167
9,170
At 30 September 2024
3
14,167
14,170
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
- 18 -
10
Tangible fixed assets
Plant and machinery
£
Cost
At 1 October 2024
477,820
Additions
259,320
At 30 September 2025
737,140
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 October 2024
54,682
Depreciation charged in the year
106,414
At 30 September 2025
161,096
Carrying amount
At 30 September 2025
576,044
At 30 September 2024
423,138
11
Stocks
2025
2024
£
£
Finished goods and goods for resale
207,635
192,678
12
Debtors
2025
2024
Amounts falling due within one year:
£
£
Trade debtors
32,482
33,458
Other debtors
23,693
28,269
Prepayments and accrued income
248,424
224,354
304,599
286,081
13
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2025
2024
£
£
Trade creditors
701,902
637,771
Taxation and social security
735,909
628,873
Directors' current accounts
78,831
163,577
Other creditors
301,323
260,154
Accruals and deferred income
97,038
90,139
1,915,003
1,780,514
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
- 19 -
14
Retirement benefit schemes
2025
2024
Defined contribution schemes
£
£
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes
84,301
100,803
The company operates a defined contribution pension scheme for all qualifying employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the company in an independently administered fund.
15
Share capital
2025
2024
2025
2024
Ordinary share capital
Number
Number
£
£
Issued and fully paid
Ordinary of £1 each
2
2
2
2
16
Contingent liabilities
The company has given a debenture in favour of Proplend Security Limited for borrowings by the KS Yeardley FCB Limited Pension Scheme. The debenture comprises a fixed and floating charge over all property and undertakings of the company.
17
Operating lease commitments
As lessee
At the reporting end date the company had outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases, which fall due as follows:
2025
2024
£
£
Within 1 year
433,600
357,500
Years 2-5
762,099
630,208
1,195,699
987,708
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
- 20 -
18
Related party transactions
Transactions with directors
K S Yeardley
Interest of £9,351 (2024: £20,148) was payable to K S Yeardley on his directors loan account. At the balance sheet date the company owed K S Yeardley £78,831 (2024 : £163,577), this is included in other creditors due within one year.
K S Yeardley FCB Limited Pension Scheme - Director's Pension Scheme
The company leased premises owned by K S Yeardley FCB Limited Pension Scheme on normal commercial terms. Rent payable during the period was £561,790 (2024 : £673,809).
At the balance sheet date the company owed K S Yeardley FCB Pension Scheme £54,873 (2024 : £38,961), this is included in other creditors due within one year.
Kane Yeardley t/a Forum Property Management
The company leased premises owned by Kane Yeardley t/a Forum Property Management on normal commercial terms. Rent and service charges payable during the period amounted to £160,000 (2024 : £173,333).
Payroll costs were recharged by True North Brew Co Ltd to Forum Property Management amounting to £10,391 (2024 : £14,250).
At the balance sheet date the company were owed £18,343 (2024 : £20,006), this is included in other debtors.
Devonshire Street Hospitality Limited
Sean Kelly is also a director and shareholder of Devonshire Street Hospitality Limited. During the year business rates were recharged to True North Brew Co Ltd and amounted to £64,685 (2024 : £19,228). Other incidental expenses were also recharged of £3,987 (2024 : £10).
At the balance sheet date the company owed Devonshire Street Hospitality Limited £40,560 (2024 : £Nil), this is included in other creditors due within one year.
19
Ultimate controlling party
The controlling party is K S Yeardley.
TRUE NORTH BREW CO LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
- 21 -
20
Cash generated from operations
2025
2024
£
£
Loss after taxation
(46,776)
(609,804)
Adjustments for:
Finance costs
19,186
21,429
Investment income
(1)
(1,837)
Gain on disposal of tangible fixed assets
-
(65,615)
Amortisation and impairment of intangible assets
5,000
5,834
Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets
106,414
56,067
Movements in working capital:
Increase in stocks
(14,957)
(192,678)
Increase in debtors
(18,518)
(286,081)
Increase in creditors
134,489
1,780,514
Cash generated from operations
184,837
707,829
21
Analysis of changes in net funds
1 October 2024
Cash flows
30 September 2025
£
£
£
Cash at bank and in hand
254,645
(93,668)
160,977
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