Company registration number 02055748 (England and Wales)
BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2025
BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
COMPANY INFORMATION
Directors
Mrs Y J Stafford
Mr A T Little
Mr J J Little
Ms A Burgess
Mr G D Powell
Company number
02055748
Registered office
1 Whittle Drive
Eastbourne
BN23 6QH
Auditor
MHA
Richard House
9 Winckley Square
Preston
PR1 3HP
BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
CONTENTS
Page
Strategic report
1
Directors' report
2 - 3
Directors' responsibilities statement
4
Independent auditor's report
5 - 7
Statement of comprehensive income
8
Balance sheet
9
Statement of changes in equity
10
Notes to the financial statements
11 - 24
BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
STRATEGIC REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2025
- 1 -

The directors present the strategic report for the year ended 28 February 2025.

Review of the business

In May 2024 the company relocated its entire operation to new and larger premises. The move provides for future growth and development with a substantial increase in capacity and operating efficiencies. The move was completed successfully in May 2024 with a seamless customer experience.

 

The facility move and the continued focus on exceptional customer service, range innovation and operating efficiency give the directors the belief that the company's prospects are good.

 

The economic climate in the UK remained challenging in the year and together with the impact of a range reduction program within a part of the company’s customer base reflects in a reduction in turnover. Despite the reduction in sales and other key indicators in the table below, the directors are satisfied with the operating profit in the year which is in line with results prior to 2024.

 

The company paid dividends during the period of £0.2m. Cash management and a profitable trading performance during the year has resulted in strong net cash reserves compared to the prior year and growth in net assets.

Key performance indicators

The company monitors its performance through the key performance indicators of turnover, gross profit, operating profit and the value of net assets.

 

KPI

 

 

2025

 

2024

 

 

 

 

 

 

Turnover

 

 

£23,961,078

 

£26,193,171

Gross Profit %

 

 

25.00%

 

25.49%

Operating Profit

 

 

£628,394

 

£1,059,671

Operating Profit %

 

 

2.62%

 

4.05%

Cash

 

 

£5,652,954

 

£5,176,732

Net Assets

 

 

£9,679,876

 

£9,345,261

 

Future developments

The directors expect the level of activity to remain consistent in the forthcoming year and are committed to the development of custom curated ranges to retail markets. The company is well positioned to maximise the opportunity to widen its distribution capabilities.

On behalf of the board

Mr J J Little
Director
5 July 2025
BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
DIRECTORS' REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2025
- 2 -

The directors present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 28 February 2025.

Principal activities

The principal activity of the company is the development and supply of customised book ranges and related products for sale to retailers across many sectors.

Results and dividends

The results for the year are set out on page 8.

Ordinary dividends were paid amounting to £200,000. The directors do not recommend payment of a further dividend.

Directors

The directors who held office during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were as follows:

Mrs Y J Stafford
Mr A T Little
Mr J J Little
Mr B F Anderson
(Resigned 7 June 2024)
Ms A Burgess
Mr G D Powell
Ms B M Lunn
(Appointed 7 June 2024 and resigned 10 June 2025)
Qualifying third party indemnity provisions

The company has made qualifying third party indemnity provisions for the benefit of its directors during the year. These provisions remain in force at the reporting date.

Financial instruments
Financial risk management objectives and policies

Economic and market pressures in the United Kingdom are a continuing risk to maintaining customers and their sales, and for growth in the company’s customer base. The company manages these risks by providing added value services and unique products to its customers. Fast response times are critical in maintaining strong relationships with customers and suppliers.

 

The directors regularly review these risks and take mitigating actions when appropriate.

 

The company’s principal assets are stocks and trade debtors. Both are shown net of adequate provision.

 

The directors are aware of the tough economic forecast ahead for the UK and internationally. The company will continue to closely manage costs and seek improvements where possible. There also continue to be changes in the domestic and international markets and we recognize the many new opportunities for the company. The exchange rates remain favourable for export and there is an increasing demand for English language content abroad.

 

Cyber threats and information security are a constant threat and the company actively pursues strategies to mitigate these risks.

 

The directors are responsible for the company’s financial risk management.

BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2025
- 3 -
Cashflow risk

The company’s activities expose it to the financial risks of changes in foreign currency exchange rates. The company considers the use of foreign exchange forward contracts to hedge these exposures. At the year ended 28 February 2025 the company held forward exchange contracts to the value of £233,047 (2024 £90,393).

 

The company has stable cash reserves post year end.

Credit Risk

The company’s principal financial assets are bank balances, trade and other receivables

 

The company’s credit risk is primarily attributable to its trade receivables. The amounts presented in the balance sheet are net of allowances for doubtful receivables. An allowance for impairment is made where there is an identified loss event which, based on previous experience, is evidence of a reduction in the recoverability of the cash flows. The Company continually reviews customer account balances for indications of impairment, and undertakes new customer credit checks in order to mitigate the credit risk.

 

The credit risk on liquid funds is limited because the counterparties are banks with high credit-ratings assigned by international credit-rating agencies.

Auditor

The auditor, MHA, previously traded through the legal entity MacIntyre Hudson LLP. In response to regulatory changes, MacIntyre Hudson LLP ceased to hold an audit registration with the engagement transitioning to MHA Audit Services LLP.

 

MHA will be proposed for reappointment in accordance with section 485 of the Companies Act 2006.

Strategic report

The company has chosen in accordance with Companies Act 2006, s. 414C(11) to set out in the company's strategic report information required by Large and Medium-sized Companies and Groups (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008, Sch. 7 to be contained in the directors' report. It has done so in respect of future developments.

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.

Medium-sized companies exemption

This report has been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies entitled to the medium-sized companies exemption.

On behalf of the board
Mr J J Little
Director
5 July 2025
BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITIES STATEMENT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2025
- 4 -

The directors are responsible for preparing the annual report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations.

 

Company law requires the directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under that law the directors have elected to prepare the financial statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable law). Under company law the directors must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the company and of the profit or loss of the company for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the directors are required to:

 

 

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.

BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
TO THE MEMBERS OF BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
- 5 -
Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Baker & Taylor (UK) Ltd (the 'company') for the year ended 28 February 2025 which comprise the statement of comprehensive income, the balance sheet, the statement of changes in equity 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:

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 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 ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the directors' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

 

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the company's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

 

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

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and our 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.

BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
TO THE MEMBERS OF BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD (CONTINUED)
- 6 -

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of our audit:

 

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.

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

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:

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 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 specific procedures for this engagement and the extent to which these are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is detailed below:

BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
TO THE MEMBERS OF BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD (CONTINUED)
- 7 -

Because of the inherent limitations of an audit, there is a risk that we will not detect all irregularities, including those leading to a material misstatement in the financial statements or non-compliance with regulation. This risk increases the more that compliance with a law or regulation is removed from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, as we will be less likely to become aware of instances of non-compliance. The risk is also greater regarding irregularities occurring due to fraud rather than error, as fraud involves intentional concealment, forgery, collusion, omission or misrepresentation.

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.

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the company's members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 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.

Joe Sullivan FCA
Senior Statutory Auditor
For and on behalf of MHA, Statutory Auditor
Preston, United Kingdom
1 August 2025
2025-08-01
MHA is the trading name of MHA Audit Services LLP, a limited liability partnership in England and Wales (registered number OC455542)
BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2025
- 8 -
2025
2024
Notes
£
£
Turnover
3
23,961,078
26,193,171
Cost of sales
(17,971,397)
(19,516,868)
Gross profit
5,989,681
6,676,303
Distribution costs
(1,918,034)
(1,995,350)
Administrative expenses
(3,443,253)
(3,621,282)
Operating profit
4
628,394
1,059,671
Interest receivable and similar income
7
86,869
75,485
Interest payable and similar expenses
8
-
0
(5,188)
Profit before taxation
715,263
1,129,968
Tax on profit
9
(180,648)
(282,119)
Profit for the financial year
534,615
847,849

The statement of comprehensive income has been prepared on the basis that all operations are continuing operations.

BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT
28 FEBRUARY 2025
28 February 2025
- 9 -
28 February 2025
29 February 2024
Notes
£
£
£
£
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
11
995,772
440,088
Investments
12
1
1
995,773
440,089
Current assets
Stocks
14
4,671,257
6,357,554
Debtors
15
2,180,509
1,948,849
Cash at bank and in hand
5,652,954
5,176,732
12,504,720
13,483,135
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
16
(3,604,512)
(3,769,895)
Provisions due in less than one year
17
-
0
(730,005)
Net current assets
8,900,208
8,983,235
Total assets less current liabilities
9,895,981
9,423,324
Provisions for liabilities
Deferred tax liability
18
216,105
78,063
(216,105)
(78,063)
Net assets
9,679,876
9,345,261
Capital and reserves
Called up share capital
20
50,000
50,000
Profit and loss reserves
9,629,876
9,295,261
Total equity
9,679,876
9,345,261

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 5 July 2025 and are signed on its behalf by:
Mr J J Little
Director
Company registration number 02055748 (England and Wales)
BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2025
- 10 -
Share capital
Profit and loss reserves
Total
Notes
£
£
£
Balance at 1 March 2023
50,000
8,847,412
8,897,412
Year ended 29 February 2024:
Profit and total comprehensive income
-
847,849
847,849
Dividends
10
-
(400,000)
(400,000)
Balance at 29 February 2024
50,000
9,295,261
9,345,261
Year ended 28 February 2025:
Profit and total comprehensive income
-
534,615
534,615
Dividends
10
-
(200,000)
(200,000)
Balance at 28 February 2025
50,000
9,629,876
9,679,876
BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2025
- 11 -
1
Accounting policies
Company information

Baker & Taylor (UK) Ltd is a private company limited by shares incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is 1 Whittle Drive, Eastbourne, BN23 6QH.

1.1
Accounting convention

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with FRS 102 “The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland” (“FRS 102”) and the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the company. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.

This company is a qualifying entity for the purposes of FRS 102, being a member of a group where the parent of that group prepares publicly available consolidated financial statements, including this company, which are intended to give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit or loss of the group. The company has therefore taken advantage of exemptions from the following disclosure requirements:

 

The company has taken advantage of the exemption under section 400 of the Companies Act 2006 not to prepare consolidated accounts. The financial statements present information about the company as an individual entity and not about its group.

 

Baker & Taylor (UK) Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Little Group Limited and the results of Baker & Taylor (UK) Ltd are included in the consolidated financial statements of The Little Group Limited which are available from its registered office, 1 Whittle Drive, Eastbourne, East Sussex, United Kingdom, BN23 6QH.

BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2025
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 12 -
1.2
Going concern

The company's business activities, together with the factors likely to affect its future development, performance and position are set out in the strategic report. At 28 February 2025, the company held cash of £5,652,954, net current assets of £8,900,208, net assets of £9,679,876 and continued to trade profitably. The directors' report further describes the financial position of the company; its cash flows, liquidity position; the company's objectives, policies and processes for managing its capital; its financial risk management objectives; details of its financial instruments and hedging activities; and its exposure to credit risk. true

 

The company meets its day to day working capital requirements through its current cash balances. The current economic conditions create uncertainty particularly over (a) the level of demand for the company's products; (b) the associated cost of the company's finished goods; and (c) the availability of bank finance in the foreseeable future.

 

The company's forecasts and projections, taking account of reasonably possible changes in trading performance, show that the company should be able to operate within the level to meet its short term obligations.

 

Based on the review of the business performance to date, availability of funds and future forecasts, the directors have a reasonable expectation that the company has adequate resources to continue in operational existence. Thus they continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the annual financial statements.

1.3
Turnover

Turnover is stated net of VAT, returns and trade discounts and is recognised when significant risks and rewards are considered to have been transferred to the buyer. Turnover from the sale of goods is recognised when the goods are delivered to the customer. Turnover from the supply of services represents the value of services provided to the extent there is a right to consideration and is recorded at the fair value of the consideration received to receivable.

1.4
Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.

Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:

Plant and equipment
4 - 15 years
Fixtures and fittings
4 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.

1.5
Fixed asset investments

Interests in subsidiaries are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses. The investments are assessed for impairment at each reporting date and any impairment losses or reversals of impairment losses are recognised immediately in profit or loss.

A subsidiary is an entity controlled by the company. Control is the power to govern the financial and operating policies of the entity so as to obtain benefits from its activities.

BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2025
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 13 -
1.6
Impairment of fixed assets

At each reporting period end date, the company reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible 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.

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.

1.7
Stocks

Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to sell, which is equivalent to the net realisable value. Cost is calculated using the FIFO (first-in, first-out) method. Provision is made for obsolete, slow-moving or defective items where appropriate.

1.8
Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents are basic financial assets and include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.

1.9
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.

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.

BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2025
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 14 -
Other financial assets

All of the company's financial assets are basic financial instruments.

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 and loans from fellow group companies, are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.

 

Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method.

 

Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of business from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Other financial liabilities

All of the company's financial liabilities are basic financial instruments.

Derecognition of financial liabilities

Financial liabilities are derecognised when the company’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.

BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2025
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 15 -
1.10
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.

1.11
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.

 

Deferred tax is calculated at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the period when the liability is settled or the asset is realised. Deferred tax is charged or credited in the profit and loss account, except when it relates to items charged or credited directly to equity, in which case the deferred tax is also dealt with in equity. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when the company has a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets and liabilities and the deferred tax assets and liabilities relate to taxes levied by the same tax authority.

1.12
Provisions

Provisions are recognised when the company has a legal or constructive present obligation as a result of a past event, it is probable that the company will be required to settle that obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.

 

The amount recognised as a provision is the best estimate of the consideration required to settle the present obligation at the reporting end date, taking into account the risks and uncertainties surrounding the obligation. Where the effect of the time value of money is material, the amount expected to be required to settle the obligation is recognised at present value. When a provision is measured at present value, the unwinding of the discount is recognised as a finance cost in profit or loss in the period in which it arises.

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.

BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2025
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 16 -
1.14
Retirement benefits

Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due.

1.15
Leases

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.

1.16
Foreign exchange

Transactions in currencies other than pounds sterling are recorded at the rates of exchange prevailing at the dates of the transactions. At each reporting end date, monetary assets and liabilities that are denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the rates prevailing on the reporting end date. Gains and losses arising on translation in the period are included in profit or loss.

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.

Critical judgements

The following judgements (apart from those involving estimates) have had the most significant effect on amounts recognised in the financial statements.

Tangible fixed assets

Management has applied judgement in arriving at the useful economic life and residual value of each asset class, which is formally reviewed annually, at the balance sheet date. Management use their significant operational experience and knowledge of the company's likely future path to arrive at appropriate conclusions.

Dilapidation provision

The provision stated at the prior year balance sheet date did not require judgement as it was a known figure at the time of approving the financial statements. This balance related to a one time event and was fully discharged during the current financial year, hence a similar provision was not required at the current balance sheet date.

BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2025
2
Judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty
(Continued)
- 17 -
Key sources of estimation uncertainty

The estimates and assumptions which have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amount of assets and liabilities are as follows.

Stock provision

Stock provisions are made on a consistent basis at the balance sheet date based on an ageing profile of the stock holding along with a specific reserve for clearance titles.

Sales returns provision

Sales returns provision involve an estimate of the level of returns expected to be received post year end in relation to the financial year. Management consistently determine this based on historical experience in relation to the percentage of expected returns of pre year-end sales. Stock is adjusted in line with the corresponding sales return provision.

3
Turnover and other revenue
2025
2024
£
£
Turnover analysed by class of business
Sale of goods (core)
23,850,036
26,070,503
Rendering of services
111,042
122,668
23,961,078
26,193,171
2025
2024
£
£
Turnover analysed by geographical market
United Kingdom
22,417,213
24,652,124
Rest of World
1,543,865
1,541,047
23,961,078
26,193,171
2025
2024
£
£
Other revenue
Interest income
86,869
75,485
BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2025
- 18 -
4
Operating profit
2025
2024
Operating profit for the year is stated after charging:
£
£
Exchange losses
22,163
7,835
Fees payable to the company's auditor for the audit of the company's financial statements
28,470
26,400
Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets
159,316
115,760
Loss on disposal of tangible fixed assets
7,663
-
Operating lease charges
233,701
523,989
5
Employees

The average monthly number of persons (including directors) employed by the company during the year was:

2025
2024
Number
Number
Sales and distribution
55
59
Administration
16
15
Total
71
74

Their aggregate remuneration comprised:

2025
2024
£
£
Wages and salaries
1,969,406
2,106,210
Social security costs
179,558
176,746
Pension costs
229,601
192,695
2,378,565
2,475,651
6
Directors' remuneration
2025
2024
£
£
Remuneration for qualifying services
346,148
490,206
Company pension contributions to defined contribution schemes
110,301
70,389
456,449
560,595

The number of directors for whom retirement benefits are accruing under defined contribution schemes amounted to 3 (2024 - 3).

BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2025
6
Directors' remuneration
(Continued)
- 19 -
Remuneration disclosed above include the following amounts paid to the highest paid director:
2025
2024
£
£
Remuneration for qualifying services
109,872
195,778
Company pension contributions to defined contribution schemes
57,883
31,424
7
Interest receivable and similar income
2025
2024
£
£
Interest income
Interest on bank deposits
86,869
75,485
8
Interest payable and similar expenses
2025
2024
£
£
Other interest
-
0
5,188
9
Taxation
2025
2024
£
£
Current tax
UK corporation tax on profits for the current period
42,606
128,220
Deferred tax
Origination and reversal of timing differences
138,055
149,766
Changes in tax rates
-
0
3,108
Adjustment in respect of prior periods
(13)
1,025
Total deferred tax
138,042
153,899
Total tax charge
180,648
282,119
BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2025
9
Taxation
(Continued)
- 20 -

The actual charge for the year can be reconciled to the expected charge for the year based on the profit or loss and the standard rate of tax as follows:

2025
2024
£
£
Profit before taxation
715,263
1,129,968
Expected tax charge based on the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 25.00% (2024: 24.49%)
178,816
276,750
Tax effect of expenses that are not deductible in determining taxable profit
1,845
1,375
Effect of change in corporation tax rate
-
0
3,108
Other permanent differences
-
0
(139)
Deferred tax adjustments in respect of prior years
(13)
1,025
Taxation charge for the year
180,648
282,119

The headline rate of corporation tax was increased to 25% from 1 April 2023.

10
Dividends
2025
2024
£
£
Final paid
200,000
400,000
BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2025
- 21 -
11
Tangible fixed assets
Plant and equipment
Fixtures and fittings
Total
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 March 2024
2,536,674
2,208,138
4,744,812
Additions
669,429
53,235
722,664
Disposals
(1,235,934)
(766,366)
(2,002,300)
At 28 February 2025
1,970,169
1,495,007
3,465,176
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 March 2024
2,245,435
2,059,289
4,304,724
Depreciation charged in the year
90,142
69,174
159,316
Eliminated in respect of disposals
(1,228,270)
(766,366)
(1,994,636)
At 28 February 2025
1,107,307
1,362,097
2,469,404
Carrying amount
At 28 February 2025
862,862
132,910
995,772
At 29 February 2024
291,239
148,849
440,088
12
Fixed asset investments
2025
2024
Notes
£
£
Investments in subsidiaries
13
1
1
13
Subsidiaries

Details of the company's subsidiaries at 28 February 2025 are as follows:

Name of undertaking
Registered office
Class of
% Held
shares held
Direct
Lasgo Worldwide Media Limited
1 Whittle Drive, Eastbourne, BN23 6QH
Ordinary
100.00
14
Stocks
2025
2024
£
£
Finished goods and goods for resale
4,671,257
6,357,554

Included within stocks is a provision for slow moving and obsolete stock of £1,147,750 (2024: £1,253,223). The decrease in the provision during the year of £105,472 has been credited to the profit and loss account (2024: £352,804 decrease in provision credited to the profit and loss account).

BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2025
- 22 -
15
Debtors
2025
2024
Amounts falling due within one year:
£
£
Trade debtors
1,541,607
1,356,809
Corporation tax recoverable
102,672
138,498
Amounts owed by group undertakings
69,096
54,083
Other debtors
193,923
111,626
Prepayments and accrued income
273,211
287,833
2,180,509
1,948,849

Amounts owed by group undertakings relate to fellow wholly owned group members and are interest free, unsecured and repayable on demand.

16
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2025
2024
£
£
Trade creditors
3,028,748
3,287,569
Taxation and social security
47,131
135,824
Accruals and deferred income
528,633
346,502
3,604,512
3,769,895
17
Provisions for liabilities
2025
2024
£
£
Dilapidations provision
-
730,005
Movements on provisions:
Dilapidations provision
£
At 1 March 2024
730,005
Utilisation of provision
(730,005)
At 28 February 2025
-

The prior year dilapidations provision above was included for a lease of the company's former place of business, which expired on 20 June 2024. The amount included a settlement sum agreed with the landlord plus associated costs and was settled on expiry of the lease.

BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2025
- 23 -
18
Deferred taxation

The following are the major deferred tax liabilities and assets recognised by the company and movements thereon:

Liabilities
Liabilities
2025
2024
Balances:
£
£
Accelerated capital allowances
221,303
80,655
Short term timing differences
(5,198)
(2,592)
216,105
78,063
2025
Movements in the year:
£
Liability at 1 March 2024
78,063
Charge to profit or loss
138,055
Other
(13)
Liability at 28 February 2025
216,105

The deferred tax liability set out above in respect of accelerated capital allowances is not expected to materially change over the next 12 months.

19
Retirement benefit schemes
2025
2024
Defined contribution schemes
£
£
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes
229,601
192,695

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.

20
Share capital
2025
2024
2025
2024
Ordinary share capital
Number
Number
£
£
Issued and fully paid
Ordinary shares of £1 each
50,000
50,000
50,000
50,000

The company has one class of ordinary shares which carry no right to fixed income.

21
Financial commitments, guarantees and contingent liabilities

At the year ended 28 February 2025 the company held forward exchange contracts to the value of £233,047 (2024: £90,393).

BAKER & TAYLOR (UK) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2025
- 24 -
22
Operating lease commitments
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 one year
86,638
221,029
Between two and five years
178,474
54,976
265,112
276,005
23
Capital commitments

Amounts contracted for but not provided in the financial statements:

2025
2024
£
£
Acquisition of tangible fixed assets
-
566,017
24
Related party transactions
Transactions with related parties

The company has taken advantage of the exemption conferred by Financial Reporting Standard 102 "Related party disclosures" not to disclose transactions with members of the Group headed by The Little Group Limited, as 100% of the voting rights in the company are controlled within that Group and the company's results are included in their consolidated financial statements.

25
Ultimate controlling party

The immediate and ultimate parent company of Baker & Taylor (UK) Ltd is The Little Group Limited.

The smallest and largest group into which Baker & Taylor (UK) Ltd is consolidated is that of The Little Group Limited, the ultimate parent company. The Little Group Limited is a company registered in the United Kingdom, with a registered office of 1 Whittle Drive, Eastbourne, BN23 6QH. Its group financial statements can be obtained from Companies House, Crown Way, Cardiff.

 

The directors consider that the Little family possess ultimate control of the company.

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