RNS Number : 0504L
Surgical Innovations Group PLC
18 April 2024
 

Surgical Innovations Group plc

("Surgical Innovations", the "Company" or the "Group")

 

Final Results

Audited results for the year ended 31 December 2023

 

Record revenue levels achieved

 

Surgical Innovations Group plc (AIM: SUN), the designer, manufacturer and distributor of innovative medical technology for minimally invasive surgery, reports its audited financial results for the year ended 31 December 2023 ("FY23"), having achieved record revenue levels for the reporting period, and provides an update on current trading and outlook for the Group.

 

Financial highlights:

·    Revenues increased 6% to £12.01m (2022: £11.34m) - slightly exceeding Board expectations, and the largest recorded over a financial year

·    Underlying gross margins fell below the target range to 37.9% following operational and supply chain headwinds (2022: 42.5%; 2023 H1: 40.5%)

·    Adjusted EBITDA1 profit of £0.20m (2022: £0.70m) - in line with Board expectations

·    Adjusted operating loss before tax1 of £0.69m (2022: £0.01m profit)

·    Adjusted EPS amounted to a loss1 of 0.05p per share (2022: 0.036p profit)

·    Net cash generated from operations of £0.26m (2022: £0.23m)

·    Net cash2 at end of period of £0.36m (2022: £0.99m)

·    Available gross cash resources totalling £2.21m (2022: £3.20m), including £1.0m undrawn invoice discounting facility

 

1 Adjusted EBITDA, adjusted operating (loss)/ profit and adjusted EPS are stated before deducting non-recurring exceptional costs of £0.01m (2022: £0.03m) and share based payment costs of £0.03m (2022: £0.04m).

2 Net cash equals cash less bank debt

 

Commercial and operational highlights:

·    UK sales grew 8% year on year; UK market, including OEM sales, represents 64% of total revenues

·    Comprehensive review of manufacturing operations and supply chain complete and measures implemented following persistent challenges throughout 2023

·    Initiatives to improve operational efficiencies starting to yield results - further savings / gains being made including inventory reduction

·    Substantial growth of 6.6% in Surgical Innovations ("SI") branded products, especially in the UK (15%)

·    Strong sales momentum across several other regions:

Sales in Europe (+7%) back above pre-pandemic levels

Strong sales in APAC (+8%), driven by Japan (Yelloport products), with India gaining traction

·    Investment into new product development ongoing, albeit encountering some registration delays

In December 2023, successfully launched in the UK new product LogiTube™, a gastric calibration tube designed to meet specific needs of the obesity market

·    UKCA mark has been attained, and another successful completion of the Medical Device Single Audit Program ("MDSAP") audit has been achieved

·    The Company's Quality Management System, technical files, and microbiology data have been brought into compliance with EU Medical Device Regulation ("MDR"), successfully audited by BSI and fully approved.

 

Current trading and outlook

·    Strong sales momentum persists in APAC and Europe growing 8% over the same period last year

·    The Group continues to trade profitably at the adjusted EBITDA level

·    Manufacturing has resumed in the OEM segment, despite supply chain disruptions; efforts are underway to reduce the resultant backlog of orders

·    Efforts concentrated on bringing new products to market quickly:

Rollout of LogiTube™ across Europe to begin in Q2 2024, with US due to follow later in the year

The YelloPort Elite range was completed with the launch in March 2024 of the 5mm XL cutting trocar aimed at the gynaecology market

·    Strong order book maintained, providing a stable foundation for revenue generation and profitable growth

·    Regulatory pathway on schedule for the MDR

·    New exclusive UK distribution contracts

Microline Surgical, five-year deal, worth an estimated £9m in sales over length of contract

Peters Surgical, three-year deal, sales value of £1.5m estimated over contract period

·    Strategic growth opportunities exist in SI-branded products, sustainable products, collaboration with Private Healthcare Providers, and new product development

 

Chairman of Surgical Innovations, Jonathan Glenn, said: "I am pleased to report that the Company finished the year with record revenues and entered 2024 with an encouraging order book. While we faced some operational challenges during the period, recent actions taken by the Board to improve operational efficiencies, together with continued increasing sales momentum, give the Board confidence that we have put the business onto a sustainable growth trajectory for 2024 and beyond.

 

"The emphasis on sustainability is addressed by the Company's reposable™ technology and we remain well placed to take advantage as the backlog in surgery is addressed. Strategic product launches further demonstrate the Group's commitment to innovation and its ability to identify and capitalise on market opportunities. Furthermore, the promising order book provides a stable foundation for future profitable growth in revenue generation. The uptick in activity within the UK market suggests a favourable trajectory, offering potential opportunities for expansion and market penetration."

 

This announcement has been made available online at https://www.sigroupplc.com/investor-centreAn electronic copy of the Annual Report and Accounts will be uploaded to the Company's website in due course and a further notification will be made to confirm its availability.

 

Investor Presentation

David Marsh, CEO, and Jonathan Glenn, Chairman, will provide a live presentation relating to the final results via the Investor Meet Company platform at 11.00am BST today. The presentation will also be available for playback after the event. Investors can sign up to Investor Meet Company for free and add to meet Surgical Innovations Group plc via: https://www.investormeetcompany.com/surgical-innovations-group-plc/register-investor.

 

For further information please contact:

 

Surgical Innovations Group plc

www sigroupplc com

David Marsh, CEO

Tel: 0113 230 7597



Singer Capital Markets (Nominated Adviser & Broker)

Tel: 020 7496 3000

Aubrey Powell / Oliver Platts

 


Walbrook PR (Financial PR & Investor Relations)

Tel: 020 7933 8780 or si@walbrookpr.com

Paul McManus / Charlotte Edgar

Mob: 07980 541 893 / 07884 664 686

 


 

About Surgical Innovations Group plc

The Group specialises in the design, manufacture, sale and distribution of innovative, high quality medical products, primarily for use in minimally invasive surgery. Our product and business development is guided and supported by a key group of nationally and internationally renowned surgeons across the spectrum of minimally invasive surgical activity.

 

We design and manufacture and source our branded port access systems, surgical instruments and retraction devices which are sold directly in the UK home market through our subsidiary, Elemental Healthcare, and exported widely through a global network of trusted distribution partners. Many of our products in this field are based on a "resposable" concept, in which the products are part reusable, part disposable, offering a high quality and environmentally responsible solution at a cost that is competitive against fully disposable alternatives.

 

Elemental also has exclusive UK distribution for a select group of specialist products employed in laparoscopy, bariatric and metabolic surgery, hernia repair and breast reconstruction.

 

In addition, we design and develop medical devices for carefully selected OEM partners and have also collaborated with a major UK industrial partner to provide precision engineering solutions to complex problems outside the medical arena.

 

We aim for our brands to be recognised and respected by healthcare professionals in all major geographical markets in which we operate and provide by development, partnership or acquisition a broad portfolio of cost effective, procedure specific surgical instruments and implantable devices that offer reliable solutions to genuine clinical needs in the operating theatre environment.

 

Further information

Further details of the Group's businesses and products are available on the following websites:

www.sigroupplc.com

www.surginno.com

www.elementalhealthcare.co.uk

 

To receive regular updates by email, please contact si@walbrookpr.com  



 

Surgical Innovations Group plc

 

Chairman's Statement

For the year ended 31 December 2023

 

I am pleased to report that the Company finished the year with record revenues and entered 2024 with an encouraging order book. While we faced some operational challenges during the period, recent actions taken by the Board to improve operational efficiencies, together with continued increasing sales momentum, give the Board confidence that we have put the business onto a sustainable growth trajectory for 2024 and beyond.

 

Market overview

 

In the current market landscape, healthcare providers continue to contend with the increasing challenge of reducing the backlog of surgeries, currently still in excess of 7 million in the UK alone. Increasing supply chain costs and disruptions also persist, leading to a backorder of key components which in turn impacts sales. Despite these challenges, as environmental concerns become increasingly prominent, organisations are recognising the importance of adopting sustainable practices not only for their own operations but also for the broader healthcare ecosystem. There is a continued drive amongst healthcare providers in our key markets to seek more sustainable solutions. This emphasis on sustainability is addressed by the Company's reposable™ technology and Surgical Innovations remains well placed to take advantage as the backlog in surgery is addressed.

 

Financial overview

 

Revenues were £12.01m, an increase of 6% compared to the previous year (2022: £11.34m). Additionally, sales demonstrated ongoing momentum, notably strengthening in the second half of the year, with a significant 13% increase over the first half (2023H1: £5.65m).

 

Throughout the financial year, there has been a surge in demand for our sustainable products, particularly within the UK market, where robust performance was driven by the sustainability benefits of our products. Our strategic investments in sales and training specifically tailored for the UK market have proven to be well-founded. Despite ongoing industrial action within the NHS, which remains a challenge into 2024, the strong performance of the UK's business stands out.

 

In key markets such as Europe, APAC, and the rest of the world (ROW), our sustainability focus continues to gain momentum and sales have increased year on year, delivering £1.48m, £1.0m and £0.48m respectively. This trend is exemplified in Canada, where a change in distributor has revitalised the sustainability drive, leading to significant conversions among key accounts so far this year.

 

However, challenges persist in the US market, where sales were down compared to the prior financial year (£1.36m in 2023 compared to £1.66m in 2022). In response, the Company has implemented new initiatives aimed at enhancing our route to market and unlocking growth opportunities by introducing a programme of sales training and co-travelling to drive sustainability messages to healthcare providers.  New routes to market for the scissor business, outside the South Eastern states is being explored and the development of some pricing are being developed to help drive growth and volume.

 

Operational and supply chain challenges have adversely affected margins and efficiencies. Inflationary pressures on crucial components, coupled with extended lead times and operational processes, as well as regulatory requirements, have collectively hindered profitability. A project aimed at mitigating risk and addressing these challenges commenced in Q4 and the benefits are expected to flow through to the gross margin during 2024.

 

Inventory increased in the first half of the year to £3.57m. While our primary focus has been on mitigating exposure to key components, efforts have been successful in reducing this figure to £2.85m at year end (£3.16m at 31 December 2022).

 

Operating expenses rose to £4.04m (£3.88m in 2022), primarily attributable to increased and sustained investment in sales and marketing, as well as regulatory initiatives. Due to the increased operating expenses and operational inefficiencies, EBITDA reduced to £0.20m (£0.70m in 2022). This led to an adjusted loss before tax1 for the full year of £0.69m, contrasting with a profit of £0.01m in 2022. Adjusted Loss Per Share amounted to 0.05 pence (compared to earnings of 0.036 pence in 2022).

 

To mitigate the increased cost pressures in 2024 the business has implemented a restructuring programme which has now been completed. This led to a reduction in headcount of approximately 11%, with overall savings expected to total approximately £0.45m annually.

 

Throughout the financial year, the Group generated £0.26m in cash from operations (2022: £0.23m), supporting ongoing investment activities aimed at bolstering growth. Capital expenditure was reduced to £0.3m (compared to £0.7m in 2022). While product innovation remains a key strategic pillar, total investment in research expenses for the year amounted to 9.2% of revenue (compared to 10.3% in 2022). The Group's closing net cash2 balances as of 31 December 2023 amounted to £0.36m (£0.99m 31 December 2022), with available gross cash resources totalling £2.21m (2022: £3.20m), including an undrawn invoice discounting facility of £1.0m. The bank continues to provide continued support, having granted approvals to waive debt service covenant tests for the remainder of 2023. This ongoing support extends into 2024, allowing for additional headroom as improvement projects progress and come to fruition.

 

1Adjusted profit measures and reconciliation to reported measures are set out in the Operating and Financial Review below

2Net cash comprised of cash at Bank of £1.21m (2022; £2.20m) less bank borrowings £0.85m (2022: £1.21m), excluding leases under IFRS16.

 

Strategy and development

 

The Group specialises in the design, manufacture, sale and distribution of innovative, high quality medical products, primarily for use in minimally invasive surgery. We design and manufacture and source our branded port access systems, surgical instruments and retraction devices which are sold directly in the UK home market through our subsidiary, Elemental Healthcare, and exported widely through a global network of trusted distribution partners. Many of our products in this field are based on a "resposable" concept, in which the products are part re-usable, part disposable, offering a high quality and environmentally responsible solution at a cost that is competitive against fully disposable alternatives.

 

Elemental also has exclusive UK distribution for a select group of specialist products employed in laparoscopy, bariatric and metabolic surgery, hernia repair and breast reconstruction. In addition, we design and develop medical devices for carefully selected OEM partners and have also collaborated with a major UK industrial partner to provide precision engineering solutions to complex problems outside the medical arena.

 

We aim for our brands to be recognised and respected by healthcare professionals in all major geographical markets in which we operate. Through internal development, partnership or acquisition, we provide a broad portfolio of cost-effective procedure specific surgical instruments and implantable devices that offer reliable solutions to genuine clinical needs in the operating theatre environment.

 

Regulatory and new product development

 

The regulatory pathway remains on schedule for the EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR), despite a delay in transitioning to MDR, which has redirected the focus of the notified body to more immediate priorities. The Company's Quality Management System, technical files, and microbiology data have been brought into compliance with MDR, successfully audited by BSI and fully approved. Progress on the product technical files continues, with two out of three files approved for MDR, and the final file undergoing clinical review. Additionally, the UKCA mark has been attained, and another successful completion of the Medical Device Single Audit Program (MDSAP) audit has been achieved. Despite the ongoing investment posing a burden on the business, achieving compliance with regulatory standards represents a significant accomplishment and serves as a formidable barrier to entry for competitors.

 

Despite registration delays on new products, investment in development of new products is continuing. The YelloPort Elite range was augmented with the introduction in key markets of the 5mm Optical in Q4. Meanwhile, supply chain delays have affected the progress of the Logi Dissect and Grasp instruments, leading to a revised planned launch in Q2 2024. Additionally, investment in new product development underpins our commitment to sustainability, with efforts focused on expediting the process of bringing new products to market and cost-down initiatives which will enhance the profitability of the business. In December 2023, we successfully launched LogiTube™, a gastric calibration tube designed to meet specific needs of the obesity market, in the UK.

 

Operational update

 

The key initiatives aimed at improving efficiencies are beginning to yield tangible results. The rollback of the four-day workweek has provided immediate efficiency gains and capacity improvements. Additionally, the drive to reduce inventory, which had been increased to overcome supply chain challenges, is proving effective and moving forward should release cash currently tied up in excess stock.

 

In recent months, the overhead restructuring to streamline our cost structure and reallocate resources to focus on strategic priorities has been completed. The Group has taken a number of steps with relatively low levels of investment to introduce automation of some key functions that will aid modernising operations. This will help further improve overhead costs and improve the consistency in quality control to improve our product offering to customers. 

 

Overall, these initiatives represent a concerted drive to improve operational efficiencies, maximise productivity, and reduce costs across the organisation.

 

Board and executive management update

 

As part of the Company's Board succession planning, two long serving Board members stepped down from the Board during the financial year. Professor Mike McMahon, co-founder of Surgical Innovations, resigned at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) in June. Following this, Nigel Rogers, who had served as Chair since 2014, stepped down from his position in September and subsequently left the Board in December. These planned departures facilitated the implementation of new leadership, and I assumed the role of Chair in September after a short handover period. Additionally, Keyvan Djamanari joined the Board in December bringing valuable general management and operational expertise. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Mike and Nigel for the dedicated leadership and significant contributions during their tenure. 

 

More recently Paul Hardy has announced his intention to step down as an Independent Non-executive Director at the next AGM having completed over 8 years in the post. The Company will review the composition of the board on an ongoing basis and will make a further statement in due course.  Following  the 19 December 2023 announcement regarding Charmaine Day's intention to step down from her role as Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"), the Company confirmed earlier in April 2024 that Charmaine has now left the Group. An experienced interim financial consultant has been supporting the business since February 2024 and is now overseeing the finance function which he will continue to do until a permanent CFO is appointed. The search for a permanent CFO continues and the Company will review Board composition on an ongoing basis.

 

Current trading and outlook

 

The start to the year has seen some impact in the UK from the two prolonged junior doctors strikes that led to cancellation of elective surgeries, also the planned reduction in stock levels by NHS Supply Chain reduced order levels in January and February. The OEM segment has also encountered setbacks due to supply chain quality disruptions, causing manufacturing delays. Although these issues took longer to resolve than initially anticipated, manufacturing has resumed, and efforts are underway to reduce the backlog of orders. Despite these challenges, the Company maintains a strong order book, reflecting confidence in the Group's future prospects and a solid foundation for continued growth and success. The international business has seen the strong demand for Surgical Innovations branded products continue into 2024, with sales in key markets - especially APAC and Europe - growing 8% over same period last year.

 

Despite a slowdown in product development caused by the MDR, the Company has identified opportunities, particularly with new product launches targeting the obesity market. Following the successful launch of LogiTube™ in the UK, we launched in Europe in April 2024, and this will be followed by a rollout in the US later in the year. These strategic launches demonstrate our commitment to innovation and our ability to identify and capitalise on market opportunities.

 

Additionally, Elemental has agreed a new five-year exclusive UK distribution contract with Microline Surgical Inc ("Microline"), Boston, USA. This continues the relationship with Microline, which started in 2007 and initially centred on Elemental distributing the Microline portfolio of products in the UK. The new contract continues the distribution of Microline products by Elemental for a further five years and, at the current run rate, will be worth an estimated £9m in sales over the period of the contract. In 2021 the relationship was expanded under a separate five-year contract lasting into H1 2026, for the distribution of Surgical Innovations' YelloPort access devices in the USA via Microline's local direct sales team.

 

Elemental has also signed a further three-year exclusive UK distribution agreement with Peters Surgical, based in Paris, France with an estimated sales value in excess of £1.5m over the contract period. It was announced in March 2024 that Advanced Medical Solutions plc (AMS), with whom Surgical Innovations has a trading relationship dating back to 2014, has entered into an agreement for the proposed acquisition of Peters Surgical. SI designed, and continues to manufacture, AMS's Fix8 laparoscopic glue device for the fixation of hernia mesh.

 

The renewal of both these agreements is a clear demonstration of the confidence that suppliers have in the UK Elemental sales team. The strength of these relationships is further underpinned through Microline and Peters' existing agreements to distribute Surgical Innovations branded products in the USA and India respectively.

 

Furthermore, the promising order book provides a stable foundation for future profitable growth in revenue generation. The uptick in activity within the UK market suggests a favourable trajectory, offering potential opportunities for expansion and market penetration.

 

Jonathan Glenn

Non-executive Chairman

17 April 2024



 

Operating and Financial Review

 

Operational overview

 

People

Our employees are key to our business strategy, and we aim to attract, retain and develop talented individuals.

 

In November 2023, we made the decision to reverse the efficiency initiative of the four-day working week to enhance productivity. We collaborated closely with employees to identify a solution that accommodated individual circumstances while ensuring continued flexibility, alongside yielding significant cost savings for the future.

 

Supply chain

Despite some alleviation in supply chain disruptions, challenges persisted throughout 2023, particularly with extended lead times on components impacting production efficiency. However, efforts to enhance relations with key suppliers, including investments in key personnel, have yielded improvement. A comprehensive review of these efforts will continue into 2024 as part of the ongoing focus on the operational improvement plan.

Financial overview

 

Revenue

 

In 2023, the Group achieved record revenue growth, with an increase of 6.0% to £12.01m, compared to £11.34m in the prior financial year. Specifically, revenues from the sale of Surgical Innovations Branded (SI Branded) products saw robust growth of 6.6% to £5.93m, compared to £5.56m in 2022.

 

Distribution sales encompass third-party products that complement the manufactured product portfolio. In 2023, this segment contributed 35.4% of the revenue, maintaining similar levels as in 2022. Notably, there was growth of 5.2% compared to the previous year.

 

Overall, OEM sales experienced growth, reaching £1.83m in 2023 compared to £1.74m in 2022. However, this growth was hindered by external factors in the supply chain. This has persisted into 2024.

 

 

Sales momentum strengthened in the second half of the financial year, with a significant 13% increase over the first half, which recorded revenues of £5.65m in 2023.

 

The UK market has played a substantial role in the Group's overall revenue, representing 64% of the total. This revenue is predominantly attributed to third-party distribution products sold by our subsidiary, Elemental Healthcare Ltd, but also includes OEM sales.


 

Year-on-year growth is evident in our key markets, with our sustainability drive gaining momentum. This trend is especially pronounced in Canada, where a change in distributor has reignited the sustainability drive, leading to substantial conversions among key accounts.

 

Nevertheless, challenges persist in the US market, where sales declined from £1.36m in 2023 to £1.66m in 2022. In response, we are launching new initiatives aimed at enhancing our route to market and identifying growth opportunities.

 

 

Margins

For margin analysis, the Group has divided the assessment between the underlying gross margin and the overall contribution margin.

 

The underlying gross margins fell below the target range, registering at 37.9% (compared to 42.5% in 2022). This marks a decrease from the reported figures in the first half of the year, which stood at 40.5% in H1 2023.

 

The reported gross margin gradually declined to 28.7% during the year, reflecting the operational challenges the business continued to experience. Manufacturing productivity and supply chain disruptions impacted profitability more so in the second half of the year (2023H1:33.0%).

 

A comprehensive operational review of both manufacturing operations and the supply chain has been conducted. Measures have already been implemented, including the removal of the four-day working week and investments in the supply chain to enhance efficiencies and productivity.

 

Furthermore, given the mounting pressure on both direct and indirect costs, a thorough review of absorption rates has been undertaken.

 
As part of this evaluation, the Group has implemented a restructuring programme and transitioned from average costing to standard costing in early 2024.The emphasis on continuously improving margins is anticipated to remain a top priority throughout the current year.

 

 


2023
£'000

2022
£'000

Revenue

 

12,014

11,340

Cost of Sales


(7,461)

(6,525)

Underlying Gross Margin

 

4,553

4,815

Underlying Gross Margin %


37.9%

42.5%

Net Cost of Manufacturing*


(1,105)

(893)

Contribution Margin

 

3,448

3,922

Contribution Margin %


28.7%

34.6%

 

*The net cost of manufacturing reflects the shortfall in recovering both fixed and variable costs, encompassing both direct and indirect expenses.

 

Use of adjusted measures

 

Adjusted KPIs are used by the Board to understand underlying performance and exclude items which distort comparability, as well as being consistent with broker forecasts and measures. The method of adjustments is consistently applied but is not defined in International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and, therefore, are considered to be non-GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) measures. Accordingly, the relevant IFRS measures are also presented where appropriate.

 

Adjusted EBITDA

 

Adjusted EBITDA serves as a key measure of business performance, offering insight into the underlying performance of the Group. This metric excludes items that may distort comparability, such as the charge for share-based payments, which is a non-cash expense typically excluded from market forecasts.

 


EBITDA*

As stated:

£0.16m

Share based payments

£0.03m

Other expense/non-recurring items

£0.01m

Adjusted Measure

£ 0.20m

 

*EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortisation (including impairment). EBITDA is calculated as operating loss of £0.60m adding back depreciation £0.48m, amortisation £0.28m and impairment £nil.

 

Adjusted EBITDA decreased in 2023 to £0.20m, primarily attributable to operational challenges, and their impact on available margins, compared to £0.70m in 2022.

 

Operating expenses increased to £4.04m in 2023, compared to £3.88m in 2022. This rise is primarily attributable to increased and sustained investment in sales and marketing, as well as regulatory initiatives. Other expensed/non-recurring items amount to £8,000 and primarily relate to M&A activities.

Financial position

 

Capital expenditure on tangible assets decreased compared to the prior year, amounting to £0.28m in 2023 (compared to £0.66m in 2022). The Group remains committed to reviewing its capital expenditure and will continue to enhance its investment plans. A review of the business priorities and operational improvements will guide our focus in this area as we move further into 2024.

 

Investment in new product development continues £0.41m (2022: £0.42m). The YelloPort Elite saw enhancements with the launch of the 5mm Optical in key markets in Q4 2023. However, supply chain delays have impacted the progress of the Logi Dissect and Grasp instruments, prompting a planned launch in Q2 2024.

 

Efforts are concentrated on expediting the process of bringing new products to market, such as the LogiTube™ (gastric calibration tube). Additionally, further investment is directed towards implementing cost- reduction initiatives aimed at enhancing the profitability.


As part of the annual review development expenditure underwent impairment testing, and it was determined that all current projects continue to provide economic benefit. Therefore, no impairment was recognised in 2023 (compared to nil in 2022).

 

A review of the goodwill arising from the acquisition of Elemental Healthcare Ltd was conducted to assess further impairment. The trading environment in the UK market was significantly affected by the pandemic throughout 2020 and continued into 2021, resulting in a cumulative impairment of £2.76m. However, the UK market has exhibited strong signs of recovery, which has persisted into 2023. With increased visibility on the outlook, the Directors anticipate improved forecasting of future net inflows on this cash-generating unit (CGU). Based on this assessment, the recoverable amount of the CGU exceeds its carrying value by £0.56m.

 

The presence of several impairment indicators within the business this year necessitated a broader consideration of asset impairment beyond goodwill. A review of the CGU of Surgical Innovations Ltd was conducted, and based on the assessment, the recoverable amount of the CGU exceeds its carrying value by £0.06m.

 

Working Capital

 

Inventory levels saw an increase in the first half of the year, reaching £3.57m, as a measure to mitigate risks associated with extended lead times. While our primary focus has been on mitigating exposure to key components, efforts have been directed towards reducing this figure to £2.85m, compared to £3.16m in 2022. Inventory holdings remain under review with the aim of further reducing exposure in 2024.


Trade receivables decreased to £1.58m at the year-end (compared to £1.76m in 2022), with minimal risk associated with overdue balances. Trade creditors decreased over the same period (2023: £1.17m, 2022: £1.42m). While debtor days have remained relatively consistent, efforts to reduce creditor days have improved as we have decreased inventory levels.

 

Net cash generated from operations amounted to £0.40m in 2023, compared to £0.49m in 2022. This reflects the improvement in the reduction of inventory levels, offset by operational challenges.

 

The Group concluded the year with net cash balances of £0.36m (excluding leases), compared with an opening net cash balance of £0.99m. The movement was primarily impacted by profitability. Total gross cash resources available amounted to £2.21m (compared to £3.20m as of December 31, 2022), including an undrawn invoice discounting facility of £1.0m.

 

The bank has continued to provide constructive support and, following prior discussions in the summer, granted approvals to waive debt service covenant tests for the remainder of 2023. This ongoing support extends into 2024, allowing for additional headroom as improvement projects progress and come to realisation

 

The Group recorded a corporation tax credit of £0.22m relating to an enhanced Research and Development claim in respect of the 2022. (2022: credit of £0.32m relating to 2020 and 2021). The tax charge on Elemental Healthcare this year has been relieved through Group losses. Overall, the Group continues to hold substantial tax losses on which it holds a cautious view, and consequently the Group has chosen not to recognise those losses.

 

Key Performance Indicators ("KPIs")

 

The Group considers the key performance indicators of the business to be:

 



2023

2022

Target Measure

Underlying Gross Profit Margin

Gross profit (before net manufacturing cost)/ revenue

37.9%

42.5%

>40%

Direct Gross Profit Margin

Gross profit / revenue

28.7%

34.6%

>40%

Net Cash/(Net Debt)*

Cash less debt

£0.36m

£0.99m

N/A

 

*Net cash is stated after bank borrowings £0.85m (2022: £1.21m), excluding leases under IFRS16.

 

Reconciliation of adjusted KPI / measures:

 

 

EBITDA*

Loss before taxation

As stated

£0.16m

(£0.73m)

Share based payments

£0.03m

£0.03m

Other expense/non-recurring items

£0.01m

£0.01m

Adjusted Measure

£ 0.20m

(£0.69m)

 

*EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortisation (including impairment). EBITDA is calculated as operating loss of £0.60m adding back depreciation £0.48m, amortisation £0.28m and impairment £nil.

 

Earnings per share

EPS

Basic EPS

(0.06p)

Loss attributable to shareholders

(£0.51m)

Add: Share based payments

£0.03m

Add: other expense/non-recurring items

£0.01m

Adjusted loss attributable to shareholders

(£0.47m)

Adjusted EPS

   (0.05p)

 



 

Principal risks and uncertainties

The management of the business and the nature of the Group's strategy are subject to a number of risks which the Directors seek to mitigate wherever possible. The principal risks are set out below:

 

Issue

Indication of risk on prior year

 Risk and description

Mitigating actions

Funding risk


Increased

The Group currently has a mixture of borrowings comprising a balance of £0.85m CBILS arrangement, with additional headroom of an undrawn £1.0m invoice discounting facility. The Group remains dependent upon the support of these funders and there is a risk that failure in particular to meet covenants attaching to the CBILS could have financial consequences for the Group.

Liquidity and covenant compliance is monitored carefully across varying time horizons to facilitate short term management and also strategic planning. This monitoring enables the management team to consider and to take appropriate actions within suitable time frames.

 

During the year, the Group sought bank support while addressing operational challenges. The covenant test (EBITDA to debt service) for the periods ending 30 June 2023, 30 September 2023, and 31 December 2023 was waived by the lender, demonstrating their full support and providing additional headroom in 2024. (Further details available in disclosure note 12)

Margin erosion due to operational challenges

Increased

The Group encountered operational inefficiencies, resulting in a natural erosion of the gross margin in the second half of the year.

 

 

 A comprehensive operational review of both manufacturing operations and the supply chain has been conducted. Measures have already been implemented, including the removal of the four-day working week and investments in the supply chain to enhance efficiencies and productivity.

 

A review of absorption rates has been undertaken.
As part of this evaluation, the Group has implemented a redundancy plan and transitioned from average costing to standard costing in early 2024.The emphasis on continuously improving margins is anticipated to remain a top priority throughout the current year
.

 

Shortage of skilled labour

Decreased

In the early part of the 2022 the Group struggled to attract and retain key skilled personnel. This has since settled in 2023.

Investment in people remains a central focus of our business strategy, aimed at retaining, attracting, and developing talented individuals.

 

In November 2023, we made the decision to reverse the efficiency initiative of the four-day working week to enhance productivity. We collaborated closely with our employees to identify a solution that accommodated individual circumstances while ensuring continued flexibility, alongside yielding significant cost savings for the future.

 

Customer concentration

 

 

 

At same level

The Group exports to over thirty countries and distributors around the world, but certain distributors are material to the financial performance and position of the Group. As disclosed in note 2 to the financial statements, one customer accounted for 12.5% of revenue in 2023 and the loss, failure or actions of this customer could have a severe impact on the Group.

The majority of distributors, including the most significant, are well established and their relationship with the Group spans many years. Credit levels and cash collection is closely monitored by management, and issues are quickly elevated both within the Group and with the distributor.

Foreign

exchange risk

 

 

 

Increased

The Group's functional currency is UK Sterling; however, it makes significant purchases in Euros and US Dollars.

 

The hedging of US Dollars and Euros is typically achieved through sales, creating a natural hedge. Nevertheless, shifts in the supply chain dynamics have resulted in a rise in the volume of foreign transactions.

 

 

 

 

The Group monitors currency exposures on an on-going basis and enters into forward currency arrangements where considered appropriate to mitigate the risk of material adverse movements in exchange rates impacting upon the business. Euro and US Dollar cash balances are monitored regularly and spot rate sales into sterling are conducted when significant currency deposits have accumulated. The accounting policy for foreign exchange is disclosed in accounting policy 1d.

Regulatory

approval

 

 

 

 

At same level

As an international business a significant proportion of the Group's products require registration from national or federal regulatory bodies prior to being offered for sale. The majority of our major product lines have FDA approval in the US and we are therefore subject to MDSAP audit and inspection of our manufacturing facilities.

There is no guarantee that any product developed by the Group will obtain and maintain national registration or that the Group will always pass regulatory audit of its manufacturing processes. Failure to do so could have severe consequences upon the Group's ability to sell products in the relevant country.

 

The Group has until the end of 2028 to transition the current product portfolio to fall under the Medical Device Regulations (MDR), currently held under Medical Device Directive (MDD). Time constraints of BSI the notified body are out of our control.

The Group has a dedicated Compliance department which assists product development teams with support as required to minimise the risk of regulatory approval not being obtained on new products and ensures that the Group operates processes and procedures necessary to maintain relevant regulatory approvals.

 

Whilst there is no guarantee that this will be sufficient, the Group has invested in people with the appropriate experience and skills in this area which mitigates this risk significantly.

 

MDR transitions are well underway and completed for all but one range. We have an extension to current MDD certificates as approved by the EU for this product.

Economic factors

 

 

At same level

Current broader economic factors are influencing inflationary rates, with the cost of living across the UK remaining high in 2023. The UK inflation rate stood at four percent in January 2024, consistent with the previous month. Between September 2022 and March 2023, the UK encountered seven months of double-digit inflation, reaching its peak at 11.1 percent in October 2022 and gradually decreasing throughout 2023.

 

The pressures on employment costs, energy and raw materials have impacted the business and continue to do so in 2024.

 

Inflationary pressures persist into the current year, affecting both raw materials and labour costs, exacerbated by a 10% increase in the National Living Wage in early 2024.

 

Supply chain delays in raw materials and finished goods have impacted the business during 2023, although not to the extent experienced in the previous year.

As part of the recruitment and retention strategy the Group reviewed the market rates and compensated employees accordingly during 2023. Additional benefits have also been implemented.

 

The Energy contract was renewed in July 2023, fixed for a year at a higher tariff than previously agreed. Energy rates are beginning to decrease in 2024.

 

Raw material purchases undergo review, with economies of scale applied. Investment in the supply chain will yield benefits through enhanced supplier relations, while more effective inventory management will mitigate further exposure.

 

Increases in the cost of goods are mitigated and passed on where possible.

 



Consolidated statement of comprehensive income

for the year ended 31 December 2023

 



2023

2022

 

Notes

£'000

£'000

Revenue

2

12,014

11,340

Cost of sales

2

(8,566)

(7,418)

Gross profit


3,448

3,922

Other operating expenses

2

(4,044)

(3,881)

Operating (loss) /profit


(596)

41

Finance costs


(132)

(98)

Loss before taxation


(728)

(57)

Taxation credit


219

321

(Loss)/profit and total comprehensive Income


(509)

264

 

(Loss)/profit per share, total and continuing


 


Basic


(0.06p)

0.03p

Diluted

3

(0.06p)

0.03p

 

The Consolidated statement of comprehensive income above relates to continuing operations.

 

(Loss)/profit and total comprehensive income relate wholly to the owners of the parent Company.

 

 

 

 

Consolidated statement of changes in equity

for the year ended 31 December 2023

 


 

Share

Share

Capital

Merger

Retained

 


 

capital

premium

reserve

reserve

earnings

Total



£'000

£'000

£'000

£'000

£'000

£'000

Balance as at 1 January 2022


9,328

6,587

329

1,250

(6,830)

10,664

Share based payment


-

-

-

-

35

35

Total - transactions with owners


-

-

-

-

35

35

Profit and total comprehensive income for the period 


-

-

-

-

264

264

Balance as at 31 December 2022

 

9,328

6,587

329

1,250

(6,531)

10,963

Share based payment


-

-

-

-

30

30

Total - transactions with owners


-

-

-

-

30

30

Loss and total comprehensive income for the period


-

-

-

-

(509)

(509)

Balance as at 31 December 2023

 

9,328

6,587

329

1,250

(7,010)

10,484

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The merger reserve arose from a business combination in 2017



 

Consolidated balance sheet

at 31 December 2023

 



2023

2022


Notes

£'000

£'000

Assets




Non-current assets




Property, plant, and equipment


898

858

Right-of-use assets


804

918

Intangible assets

4

6,529

6,403



8,231

8,179

Current assets


 


Inventories


2,854

3,162

Trade and other receivables


2,023

2,055

Cash at bank and in hand


1,212

2,199



6,089

7,416

Total assets


14,320

15,595

Equity and liabilities


 


Equity attributable to equity holders of the parent company


 


Share capital

7

9,328

9,328

Share premium account


6,587

6,587

Capital reserve


329

329

Merger reserve


1,250

1,250

Retained earnings


(7,010)

(6,531)

Total equity


10,484

10,963

Non-current liabilities


 


Borrowings

5

502

825

Dilapidation provision


165

165

Lease liability


549

722



1,216

1,712

Current liabilities


 


Trade and other payables

6

1,632

   1,886

Accruals


377

            420

Borrowings


352

      382

Lease liability


259

      232



2,620

   2,920

Total liabilities


3,836

   4,632

Total equity and liabilities


14,320

 15,595

 


 


 



 

Consolidated cash flow statement

for the year ended 31 December 2023

 


 

2023

 

 

 

2022

 


Notes

£'000

£'000

 

Cash flows from operating activities




(Loss)/Profit after tax for the year

 

(509)

264

Adjustments for:


 


Taxation


(219)

(321)

Finance costs


131

98

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment


244

167

Amortisation and impairment of intangible assets

4

279

232

Depreciation Right-of-Use assets


234

188

Share-based payment charge


30

35

Foreign exchange


27

(82)

 Decrease/(Increase) in inventories

 

308

(197)

Decrease/(Increase) in trade and other receivables

 

34

(360)

(Decrease)/Increase in payables

6

(299)

204

Cash generated from operations

 

260

228

Taxation received


219

321

Interest paid


(79)

Net cash generated from operating activities


400

486

 

Cash flows from investing activities


 


Payments to acquire property, plant and equipment


(284)

(659)

Development cost additions


(404)

(419)

Net cash used in investing activities


(688)

(1,078)



 


Repayment of bank loan


-

(375)

Repayment of CBILS

5

(353)

(294)

Repayment of lease liabilities


(319)

(266)

Net cash used in financing activities

 

(672)

(935)

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

 

(960)

(1,527)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

 

2,199

3,644

Effective exchange rate fluctuations on cash held

 

(27)

82

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

 

1,212

2,199

 



 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

1. Group accounting policies under IFRS

(a) Basis of preparation

 

Surgical Innovations Group PLC (the "Company") is a public AIM listed company incorporated, domiciled and registered in England in the UK. The registered number is 02298163 and the registered address is Clayton Wood House, 6 Clayton Wood Bank, Leeds, LS16 6QZ.

 

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with UK-adopted international accounting standards and with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 and as applicable to companies reporting under IFRS. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also requires management to exercise its judgement in the process of applying the Group's accounting policies. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, are presented in Sterling and are rounded to the nearest thousand.

 

Going concern

 

Notwithstanding the losses recorded in the year, the Directors continue to adopt the going concern basis in the preparation of the financial statements. In the current year we have taken actions to address the cost base, reducing headcount by11% with further efficiencies identified in the business both from a manufacturing perspective to increase margin and also to take out further costs if required.  In addition, cash headroom has remained steady during Q1 with the invoice discounting facility continuing to be unused whilst pipeline sales remain strong despite backlog caused by component availability.

 

The Directors have prepared forecasts for the period to December 2025 based on a full evaluation of the Group's trading activities and costs base, sensitized to reflect a rational judgement of the level of inherent risk.

 

To fortify the integrity of our projected forecasts, the Group has secured additional backing from the bank through the modification of covenant tests for the fiscal year 2024. This adjustment grants us additional leeway, facilitating continued progress in enhancing profitability within our operations. (Covenant information is provided at disclosure note 12).

 

Financial headroom as at 31 December 2023 was £2.21m with the invoice discounting facility remaining undrawn.

 

The Board is satisfied that there is ample headroom including testing any sensitivities under reasonably possible scenarios, and the Directors conclude that it continues to be appropriate to prepare the Annual Report and Accounts on a going concern basis.

 

2. Segmental reporting

Information reported to the Board, as Chief Operating Decision Makers, and for the purpose of assessing performance and making investment decisions is organised into three operating segments. The Group's operating segments under IFRS 8 are as follows:

 

SI Brand

-

the research, development, manufacture and distribution of SI branded minimally invasive devices

OEM

-

the research, development, manufacture and distribution of minimally invasive devices for third party medical device companies through either own label or co-branding. As well as Precision Engineering, the research, development, manufacture and sale of minimally invasive technology products for precision engineering applications

Distribution

_

Distribution of specialist medical products sold through Elemental Healthcare Ltd

 

 

 

 

 

 

The measure of profit or loss for each reportable segment is gross margin less amortisation of product development costs. Assets and working capital are monitored on a Group basis, with no separate disclosure of asset by segment made in the management accounts, and hence no separate asset disclosure is provided here. The following segmental analysis has been produced to provide a reconciliation between the information used by the chief operating decision maker within the business and the information as it is presented under IFRS.

 

 

Year ended 31 December 2023

SI Brand

£'000

Distribution
£'000

OEM

£'000

Total*
£'000

Revenue

5,925

4,255

1,834

12,014

Expenses

(4,862)

(2,560)

(1,423)

(8,845)

Result

 

 

 

 

Segment result

1,063

1,695

411

3,169

Unallocated expenses

 

 

 

(3,765)

Other Income

 

 

 

-

(Loss) from operations

 

 

 

(596)

Finance income

 

 

 

-

Finance costs

 

 

 

(132)

(Loss) before taxation

 

 

 

(728)

Tax credit

 

 

 

219

Loss for the year

 

 

 

(509)

 

\* There were no revenues transactions between the segments during the year

 

Included within the segment/operating results are the following significant non-cash items:

 

 

Year ended 31 December 2023

SI Brand

£'000

Distribution

£'000

OEM

£'000

Total

£'000

Amortisation of intangible assets

279

-

-

279

Impairment of intangible assets

-

-

-

-







 

Unallocated expenses for 2023 include sales and marketing costs (£633,000), research and development costs (£1,099,000), central overheads (£869,000), Direct (Elemental Healthcare) sales & marketing overheads (£1,126,000), share based payments (£30,000), Other expensed/Non-recurring (£8,000).

 

 

Year ended 31 December 2022

SI Brand

£'000

Distribution
£'000

OEM

£'000

        Total*
        £'000

Revenue

5,557

4,044

1,739

11,340

Expenses

(4,223)

(2,410)

(1,017)

(7,650)

Result





Segment result

1,334

1,634

722

3,690

Unallocated expenses




(3,649)

Other income





(Loss) from operations




41

Finance income




-

Finance costs




(98)

(Loss) before taxation




(57)

Tax charge




321

(Loss) for the year




264

 

*There were no revenues transactions between the segments during the year

 

Included within the segment results are the following items:

 

Year ended 31 December 2022

SI Brand

£'000

Distribution

£'000

OEM

£'000

Total

£'000

Amortisation of intangible assets

       232

-

-

232

Impairment of intangible assets

           -

-

-

      -  

 

Unallocated expenses for 2022 include sales and marketing costs (£577,000), research and development costs (£1,164,000), central overheads (£745,000), Direct (Elemental Healthcare) sales & marketing overheads (£1,096,000), share based payments (£35,000), Other expensed/Non-recurring (£32,000).

 

Disaggregation of revenue

 

The Group has disaggregated revenues in the following table:

 

Year ended 31 December 2023

SI Brand

£'000

Distribution

£'000

OEM

£'000

Total

£'000

United Kingdom

  1,935

4,255

1,508

  7,698

Europe

 1,478

-

-

1,478

US

  1,032

-

   326

1,358

APAC1

    998

-

-

   998

Rest of World

     482

-

-

   482


  5,925

4,255

1,834

12,014

 

Year ended 31 December 2022

SI Brand

£'000

Distribution

£'000

OEM

£'000

Total

£'000

United Kingdom

  1,683

4,044

1,315

  7,042

Europe

 1,377

-

-

1,377

US

  1,240

-

   424

  1,664

APAC1

    926

-

-

  926

Rest of World

     331

-

-

  331

 

  5,557

4,044

1,739

11,340

 

1APAC-Asia Pacific

 

Revenues are allocated geographically on the basis of where revenues were received from and not from the ultimate final destination of use. During 2023 £1,503,000 (12.5%) of the Group's revenue depended on one distributor in the OEM segment (2022: £933,000 (8.2%)), and £868,000 (7.2%) in the SI Brand segment (2022: £921,000 (8.1%).

 

Sales of goods were £12,014,000 (2022: £11,306,000) and sales relating to services in the UK were £Nil (2022: £34,000).

 

3. (Loss)/profit per ordinary share

 

Basic (loss)/profit per ordinary share

The calculation of basic earnings per ordinary share for the year ended 31 December 2023 was based upon the loss attributable to ordinary shareholders of £509,000 (2022: profit of £264,000) and a weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding for the year ended 31 December 2023 of 932,816,177 (2022: 932,816,177).

 

Diluted (loss)/profit per ordinary share

The loss incurred by the Group means that the effect of any outstanding options would be anti-dilutive and is ignored for the purposes of the diluted loss per share calculation.  The calculation of diluted earnings per ordinary share for the year ended 31 December 2022 was based upon the profit attributable to ordinary shareholders of £264,000 and a weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding for the year ended 31 December 2022 of 935,945,943.

 

Adjusted (loss)/profit per ordinary share

The calculation of adjusted earnings per ordinary share for the year ended 31 December 2023  was based upon the adjusted loss attributable to ordinary shareholders (profit before non-recurring costs and amortisation and impairment costs relating to the acquisition of Elemental Healthcare, impairment of capitalised development costs and share based payments) of £471,000 (2022: profit of £331,000)  and a weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding for the year ended 31 December 2023 of 932,816,177 (2022: 932,816,177).



 

No. of shares used in calculation of earnings per ordinary share ('000s)




2023

No. of Shares

2022

No. of Shares

Basic earnings per share

932,816

932,816

Dilutive effect of unexercised share options

850

3,129

Diluted earnings per share

933,666

935,945

 

4. Intangible assets

 

 

         Capitalised    development costs

 Single use product knowledge transfer

 

Goodwill

Exclusive Supplier Agreements

 

                  Total

 

                £'000

          £,000

        £'000

          £'000

       £'000

Cost






At 1 January 2022

14,147

225

8,180            8,180

1,799

24,351

Additions

419

                -

-

-

419

At 1 January 2023

14,566

225

            8,180

1,799

24,770

Additions

                 404

                    -

-

-

404

At 31 December 2023

14,970

225

8,180

1,799

25,174

Accumulated amortisation





At 1 January 2022

(13,354)

(225)

(2,757)

(1,799)

(18,135)

Charge for the year

(232)

-

-

-

(232)

At 1 January 2023

(13,586)

(225)

(2,757)

(1,799)

(18,367)

Charge for the year

(278)

-

-

-

(278)

At 31 December 2023

(13,864)

(225)

(2,757)

(1,799)

(18,645)

Carrying amount





At 31 December 2023

1,106

-

5,423

-

6,529

At 31 December 2022

980

-

5,423

-

6,403

At 1 January 2022

793

-

5,423

-

6,216

 

Goodwill and intangibles are allocated to the cash generating unit (CGU) that is expected to benefit from the use of the asset.

 

Capitalised development costs

 

Capitalised development costs represent expenditure incurred in developing new products that fulfil the requirements met for capitalisation as set out in paragraph 57 of IAS38. These costs are amortised over the future commercial life of the product, commencing on the sale of the first commercial item, up to a maximum product life cycle of ten years, and taking account of expected market conditions and penetration.

 

Capitalised development expenditure was tested for impairment, it was decided that the current projects all continue to provide future economic benefit and therefore no impairment was recognised (2022: £Nil).

 

Goodwill

 

The Group tests goodwill at each reporting date for impairment and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. The recoverable amount of a cash generating unit (CGU) is determined based on value in use calculations. These calculations use cash flow projections based on five-year financial budgets approved by management. Cash flows beyond the five-year period are extrapolated using estimated long term growth rates.

 

An impairment review is carried out annually for goodwill. Goodwill arose on the acquisition of Elemental Healthcare Limited in 2017 and is related to both the Distribution and SI Brand segments of the Group. Elemental Healthcare Limited is considered to be a separate cash-generating unit (CGU) of the Group whose recoverable amount has been calculated on a value in use basis by reference to discounted future cash flows over a five-year period plus a terminal value. Principal assumptions underlying this calculation are the growth rate into perpetuity of 1.5% (2022:1.5%) and a pre-tax discount rate of 16.3% (2022:15.7%) applied to anticipated cash flows. In addition, the value in use calculation assumes a gross profit margin of 41.8% (2022:43.3%) using past experience of sales made and future sales that were expected at the reporting date based on anticipated market conditions.

 

The trading environment in the UK market was significantly impacted by the pandemic throughout 2020 and 2021, which impacted the cumulative impairment by £2.7m. The UK market since has shown strong signs of recovery and with greater visibility on the outlook the directors anticipate improved forecasting of future net inflows on this CGU and on this basis, the recoverable amount of the CGU exceeds its carrying value by £1.9m.

 

5. Borrowings

 

 

2023

2022

Bank Loan

£'000

£'000

Current liabilities

352

382

Non-current liabilities

502

825

Lease liabilities

 


Current liabilities

259

232

Non-current liabilities

549

722


1,662

2,161

 

In March 2022, the Group refinanced its existing debt with Yorkshire bank consisting of the following:

 

Extension to the CBILS of £1.5m repayable in May 2026, interest is calculated at rate of 2.94% repayable monthly over the Bank of England base rate. Monthly instalments are £0.029m.

Covenants attached to the CBILS comprise of EBITDA to debt servicing costs at at a minimum of 1.25x.

Additional headroom with an Invoice Discounting facility of £1.0m across the Group, 2.5% on margin with a maximum of nominal administration fee of a maximum of £0.018m if not utilised. As at the date of this announcement this facility remains undrawn.

The bank waived the tests for the following periods during 2023: 30 June 2023, 30 September 2023, 31 December 2023 to provide the business with headroom to focus on operational efficiencies.

In March 2024, the bank extended its support by resetting the testing parameters. They excluded 31 March 2024 and initiated the rolling test from June 2024, based on EBITDA being 1x the debt service. Subsequent testing periods included September 2024 (1x, on a 6-month rolling basis), December 2024 (1.25x, on a 9-month rolling basis), and then on a 12-month rolling basis thereafter.

 

Changes in liabilities arising from financing activities

Non-current loans and borrowings

Current loans and borrowings

Total

At 1 January 2022

-

1,880

1,880

Cash flows for repayment of bank loan

-

(375)

(375)

Cash flows for refinance-CBILS


(294)

(294)

Transfer between non-current and current

825

(825)

-

Interest paid in the period


(57)

(57)

Interest accrued in the period

-

53

53

At 31 December 2022

825

382

1,207

Cash flows for repayment of CBILS

-

(353)

(353)

Transfer between non-current and current

(352)

352

-

Interest paid in the period

-

 (79)

(79)

Interest accrued in the period

 

79

79

At 31 December 2023

473

381

854

 



 

6. Trade and other payables

 

 

2023

£'000

2022

£'000

Trade payables

1,169

1,420

Other tax and social security

218

172

Other payables

245

 

294


1,632

1,886

 

The Group and Company's financial liabilities have contractual maturities (including interest payments where applicable) which are summarised below.

 


Amounts due in less than 1 year

Amounts due in 2-5 years

Amounts due in 5-10 years

Total financial liabilities

As at 31 December 2023

£'000

£'000

£'000

£'000

Trade payables

1,169

-

-

1,169

Other payables

245

-

-

245

Bank borrowings - Current

352

-

-

352

Bank borrowings - Non-current

-

502

-

502


1,766

502

-

2,268

 

 


Amounts due in less than 1 year

Amounts due in 2-5 years

Amounts due in 5-10 years

Total financial liabilities

As at 31 December 2022

£'000

£'000

£'000

£'000

Trade payables

1,420

-

-

1,420

Other payables

294

-

-

294

Bank borrowings - Current

382

-

-

382

Bank borrowings - Non-current

-

825

-

825


2,096

825

-

2,921

 

7. Share Capital

 

Shares in issue reconciliation (Authorised, allotted, called up and fully paid)

 


2023

2022

Opening no of shares in issue

932,816,177

932,816,177

Issued in satisfaction of share options exercised

-

-

Closing number of shares in issue

932,816,177

932,816,177

 

This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.

RNS may use your IP address to confirm compliance with the terms and conditions, to analyse how you engage with the information contained in this communication, and to share such analysis on an anonymised basis with others as part of our commercial services. For further information about how RNS and the London Stock Exchange use the personal data you provide us, please see our Privacy Policy.
 
END
 
 
FR SFFEFWELSEDL