During the year, the Group reviewed the estimated useful economic life of goodwill in accordance with the requirements of FRS 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland.
Previously, goodwill was amortised on a straight-line basis over 10 years. Following a reassessment of the expected future economic benefits arising from the underlying business combinations, management has determined that a useful economic life of 20 years provides a more reliable estimate. This change reflects the sustained performance, long-term customer relationships, and strategic importance of the acquired operations.
In accordance with FRS 102, this change in accounting policy has been applied prospectively from the start of the current financial year, as it was impracticable to determine the cumulative effect of applying the new policy to prior periods without the use of hindsight.
The effect of this change in the current year has been to reduce amortisation expense by £147,065, with a corresponding increase in profit before tax. The carrying amount of goodwill at the reporting date is £1,615,638.