JAMES_HARGREAVES_(PLUMBER - Accounts


Company Registration No. 00188491 (England and Wales)
JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021
JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
COMPANY INFORMATION
Directors
G J Rothwell
C Bridge
W Davies
D Eddison
C M Sharma
S C Jackson
M Healy
G Beaumont
J Rothwell
(Appointed 19 May 2022)
Company number
00188491
Registered office
Todmorden Road
Burnley
Lancashire
United Kingdom
BB11 3JT
Auditor
Azets Audit Services
St. Crispin House
St. Crispin Way
Haslingden
Rossendale
Lancashire
United Kingdom
BB4 4PW
JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
CONTENTS
Page
Strategic report
1 - 3
Directors' report
4 - 6
Independent auditor's report
7 - 9
Statement of income and retained earnings
10
Balance sheet
11
Statement of changes in equity
12
Notes to the financial statements
13 - 24
JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
STRATEGIC REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021
- 1 -

The directors present the strategic report for the year ended 31 December 2021.

Promoting the success of the company

The likely consequences of any decision in the long term

Information Technology

Over the past few years, the Company has invested heavily in new ERP and IT infrastructure, producing significant efficiencies across all operating functions. IT improvements remain central to the Company’s growth and this improvement plan will continue in the future.

Branch Expansion

Our growth strategy of identifying and acting upon opportunities to expand the branch network continued in 2021 with the opening of one new branch at Peterborough.

Investments in our Existing Branch Network

The Company is investing in renovating and modernising its existing branches to enhance overall customer experience and help staff deliver even better customer services.

eCommerce

The Company ventured into the ecommerce sector for the first time with the successful launch of three distinct websites, providing an additional channel for customers to interact with the Company. These sites provide the Company with a national coverage and are a blueprint for further developments in this sector.

 

 

The interests of the company’s employees

The health and safety of all employees who work for or with us is of fundamental importance to the Board. We want our employees to feel engaged and empowered to deliver excellent customer service, that James Hargreaves is a great place to work and to be healthier and happier themselves. We provide a working environment where our employees are able to realise their potential. The Board works closely with all employees to ensure their requirements are met. The views of our employees are important to the Board, and the employees are at the heart of our operations.

The measures that were put in place to enable all our employees to operate safely in our 2020 financial year have remained; this has allowed our business to perform strongly and remained fully operational throughout 2021.

Our employees are fundamental to the delivery of excellent customer services and therefore, the Company conducts regular pay and reward reviews. In 2021 we carried out a comprehensive pay review and implemented above inflationary pay increases for numerous employees. Furthermore, the real living wage was implemented in Oct 2021. For the year ending 2021, the sound financial health of the Company meant that it was again able to release the bonus payments to employees.

 

JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021
- 2 -

The need to foster the company’s business relationships with suppliers, customers and others

Customers are at the heart of our business. We aim to deliver truly outstanding customer service. The Company strives to maintain a close relationship with its customers so that it can understand their real and perceived needs. Improving efficiencies for our customers is a top priority for the business.

The Company’s focus remains on the service. Recent Improvements such as Click and Collect facility, Customers Ordering Portal and the launch of a couple of e-commerce websites allow Company to serve customers better.

The Company’s relationships with suppliers are vital to ensuring it can supply the right product at a competitive price in a timely manner to meet its customers’ demands. The Company is committed to ensuring it works responsibly with suppliers. We have worked closely with all our key suppliers to achieve high levels of stock at our branches and communicate to our branches about any significant shortages.

 

The impact of the company’s operations on the community and the environment

In addition to creating new employments in the local area where our branch operates, the Company has recruited young apprentices, developing them onto a really worthwhile career pathway.

The Company is committed to doing what we can to minimise our impact on the environment around us, including:

  • Initiatives such as EDI and electronic delivery of our sales invoices have led to a reduction in printing.

  • The Company continues to invest in greener working practices in our ongoing review of our vehicle fleet.

  • LED lighting continues to be installed across the Company where it is required.

  • We continually look for ways to reduce our carbon footprint where possible.

  • Active role in the recycling of waste packaging from customers.

 

The desirability of the company maintaining a reputation for high standards of business conduct. A focus on delivering high quality supplies.

We endeavour to treat all our customers fairly and equitably and take all necessary steps to protect and secure their data in compliance with existing GDPR regulations. If any of our customers are experiencing financial difficulties, we will work with them to arrive at a solution which is fair for both parties.

We aim to pay all our suppliers promptly and in a timely manner. Any shortages or discrepancies are reported straight away

 

The need to act fairly as between members of the company

The Directors consider that they have acted fairly among the members of the Company. The performance metrics and financial information are readily available to all members of the Company. The Board routinely considers the interests of the Company’s members in the decision-making process and ensures that they are aligned with the Company’s practices, values and goals.

 

 

JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021
- 3 -
Fair review of the business

 

The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the business in the past year has been challenging, but the Company has emerged from the pandemic as a stronger business. We can be proud of our performance in 2021. The Company delivered excellent year-on-year organic revenue and profit growth. The Company’s balance sheet is strong, enabling us to continue with our expansion plans.

Against the backdrop of raw material increases and the continuing effects of COVID-19, the Company recorded its best year on sales – turnover for the year ending 31 December 2021 was £112.3m – with an improvement in operating margins compared to prior years.

The Company is in a healthy position from a liquidity perspective, so it has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future.

Over the past few years, the Company has invested heavily in improving key areas of business, most notably ERP, IT Infrastructure, customer service, operations and credit management. The Company will continue to strive to achieve efficiencies across its operation, and this improvement plan will continue in the future.

An additional three branches are expected to be opened in 2022, reflecting the Company’s commitment to its branch expansion plans. Furthermore, the Company aims to grow its online business.

The directors anticipate continued controlled growth in an uncertain trading climate.

 

Financial key performance indicators

The Directors consider a range of different performance indicators in assessing its operations. The key financial performance indicators during the period were as follows:

                         2021         2020

                         £         £

Turnover                            112,319,287    89,425,788

Turnover Growth                        25.6%        (-0.7%)

Gross Profit %                        28.75%        25.5%

Profit before Taxation                    10,054,122    5,770,472

Net Profit %                        7.21%        5.1%    

Stock Turnover Days                    73        74

The company regularly monitors sales, gross margin on a product/product category/manufacturer/branch basis.

 

 

 

On behalf of the board

C M Sharma
Director
28 September 2022
JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
DIRECTORS' REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021
- 4 -

The directors present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2021.

Principal activities

The principal activity of the company continued to be that of a wholesale plumbers' merchants.

Results and dividends

The results for the year are set out on page 10.

Ordinary dividends were paid amounting to £419,970. The directors do not recommend payment of a final dividend.

Directors

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

G J Rothwell
C Bridge
W Davies
D Eddison
C M Sharma
S C Jackson
M Healy
G Beaumont
J Rothwell
(Appointed 19 May 2022)
Financial instruments

Objectives and policies

 

The company finances its operations through a mixture of retained profits, and where necessary to fund expansion or capital expenditure programmes through bank borrowing.

 

The management's objectives are to:

 

• retain sufficient liquid funds to enable it to meet its day to day obligations as they fall due whilst maximising

returns on surplus funds;

• minimise the company's exposure to fluctuating interest rates when seeking new borrowings; and

• match the repayment schedule of any external borrowings or overdrafts with the expected future cash flows expected to arise from the company's trading activities.

 

As the company's funds are invested in sterling bank deposit accounts there is no exchange rate risk exposure. The company's funds are held primarily in short term variable deposit accounts. The directors believe that this gives them the flexibility to release cash resources at short notice and also allows them to take advantage of changing conditions in the finance markets as they arise.

 

All deposits are with reputable United Kingdom banks.

Trade debtors are monitored on an ongoing basis and provision is made for doubtful debts where necessary.

JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021
- 5 -

The company manages its cash and borrowing requirements in order to maximise interest income and minimise interest expense, whilst ensuring the company has sufficient liquid resources to meet the operating needs of the business.

Disabled persons

Applications for employment by disabled persons are always fully considered, bearing in mind the aptitudes of the applicant concerned. In the event of members of staff becoming disabled, every effort is made to ensure that their employment within the company continues and that the appropriate training is arranged. It is the policy of the company that the training, career development and promotion of disabled persons should, as far as possible, be identical to that of other employees.

Employee involvement

The company's policy is to consult and discuss with employees, through unions, staff councils and at meetings, matters likely to affect employees' interests.

 

Information about matters of concern to employees is given through information bulletins and reports which seek to achieve a common awareness on the part of all employees of the financial and economic factors affecting the company's performance.

 

Auditor

The auditor, Azets Audit Services, is deemed to be reappointed under section 487(2) of the Companies Act 2006.

Energy and carbon report
Energy consumption
kWh
kWh
Aggregate of energy consumption in the year
- Gas combustion
1,196,118
- Fuel consumed for transport
1,557,688
2,753,806
Emissions of CO2 equivalent
Metric tonnes
Metric tonnes
Scope 1 - direct emissions
- Gas combustion
243.30
- Fuel consumed for owned transport
258.97
502.27
Scope 2 - indirect emissions
- Electricity purchased
359.87
Total gross emissions
862.14
Intensity ratio
Tonnes CO2e per £1,000,000 revenue
7.68
Quantification and reporting methodology

We have followed the 2019 HM Government Environmental Reporting Guidelines. We have also used the GHG Reporting Protocol – Corporate Standard and have used the 2020 UK Government’s Conversion Factors for Company Reporting.

JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021
- 6 -
Intensity measurement

To compare the emissions efficiency of the business year on year as the business changes, metrics have been used to analyse emissions and to measure progress. These intensity metrics consider the growth of the business and act as a measure of business performance and emissions. The company have utilised the revenue during the financial year to determine the tonnage of CO2 (equivalent) per £1,000,000 generated as the intensity ratio.

Measures taken to improve energy efficiency

The company continues to invest in greener working practices in our ongoing review of our vehicle fleet, including cars, delivery vans and delivery wagons.

 

LED lighting continues to be installed across the company where it is required to improve energy efficiency.

 

Statement of directors' responsibilities

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:

 

  •     select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;

  •     make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent;

  •     state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements;

  •     prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the company will continue in business.

 

The directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the company’s transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

 

Statement of disclosure to auditor

So far as each person who was a director at the date of approving this report is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the company’s auditor is unaware. Additionally, the directors individually have taken all the necessary steps that they ought to have taken as directors in order to make themselves aware of all relevant audit information and to establish that the company’s auditor is aware of that information.

On behalf of the board
C M Sharma
Director
28 September 2022
JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
TO THE MEMBERS OF JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
- 7 -
Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of James Hargreaves (Plumbers' Merchants) Ltd (the 'company') for the year ended 31 December 2021 which comprise the statement of income and retained earnings, the balance sheet 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 FRS 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion the financial statements:

  •     give a true and fair view of the state of the company's affairs as at 31 December 2021 and of its profit for the year then ended;

  •     have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and

  •     have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

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.

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

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

  • the information given in the strategic report and the directors' report for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and

  • the strategic report and the directors' report have been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.

JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MEMBERS OF JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
- 8 -
Matters on which we are required to report by exception

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the strategic report and the directors' report.

 

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:

 

  •     adequate accounting records have not been kept, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or

  •     the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or

  •     certain disclosures of remuneration specified by law are not made; or

  •     we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.

Responsibilities of directors

As explained more fully in the directors' responsibilities statement, the directors are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, the directors are responsible for assessing the company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.

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.

JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MEMBERS OF JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
- 9 -

Extent to which the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above and on the Financial Reporting Council’s website, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud.

 

We obtain and update our understanding of the entity, its activities, its control environment, and likely future developments, including in relation to the legal and regulatory framework applicable and how the entity is complying with that framework.  Based on this understanding, we identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.  This includes consideration of the risk of acts by the entity that were contrary to applicable laws and regulations, including fraud.

 

In response to the risk of irregularities and non-compliance with laws and regulations, including fraud, we designed procedures which included:

 

  • Enquiry of management and those charged with governance around actual and potential litigation and claims as well as actual, suspected and alleged fraud; 

  • Assessing the extent of compliance with the laws and regulations considered to have a direct material effect on the financial statements or the operations of the company through enquiry and inspection; 

  • Reviewing financial statement disclosures and testing to supporting documentation to assess compliance with applicable laws and regulations;

  • Performing audit work over the risk of management bias and override of controls, including testing of journal entries and other adjustments for appropriateness, evaluating the business rationale of significant transactions outside the normal course of business and reviewing accounting estimates for indicators of potential bias. 

 

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 of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.

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.

Lee Van Houplines (Senior Statutory Auditor)
For and on behalf of Azets Audit Services
28 September 2022
Chartered Accountants
Statutory Auditor
St. Crispin House
St. Crispin Way
Haslingden
Rossendale
Lancashire
United Kingdom
BB4 4PW
JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
STATEMENT OF INCOME AND RETAINED EARNINGS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021
- 10 -
2021
2020
Notes
£
£
Turnover
112,319,287
89,425,788
Cost of sales
(80,023,731)
(66,625,066)
Gross profit
32,295,556
22,800,722
Distribution costs
(1,312,624)
(1,088,700)
Administrative expenses
(20,971,503)
(17,778,339)
Other operating income
88,744
1,855,065
Operating profit
3
10,100,173
5,788,748
Interest receivable and similar income
8,996
14,978
Interest payable and similar expenses
(55,047)
(33,254)
Profit before taxation
10,054,122
5,770,472
Tax on profit
6
(1,951,021)
(1,175,000)
Profit for the financial year
8,103,101
4,595,472
Retained earnings brought forward
37,828,213
33,632,631
Dividends
7
(419,970)
(399,890)
Retained earnings carried forward
45,511,344
37,828,213

The profit and loss account has been prepared on the basis that all operations are continuing operations.

JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT
31 DECEMBER 2021
31 December 2021
- 11 -
2021
2020
Notes
£
£
£
£
Fixed assets
Intangible assets
8
358,703
473,814
Tangible assets
9
6,324,410
5,974,146
6,683,113
6,447,960
Current assets
Stocks
10
16,012,733
13,239,660
Debtors
11
26,232,122
22,462,375
Cash at bank and in hand
15,638,800
15,575,248
57,883,655
51,277,283
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
12
(18,551,345)
(19,392,951)
Net current assets
39,332,310
31,884,332
Net assets
46,015,423
38,332,292
Capital and reserves
Called up share capital
15
126,862
126,862
Share premium account
339,079
339,079
Capital redemption reserve
38,138
38,138
Profit and loss reserves
45,511,344
37,828,213
Total equity
46,015,423
38,332,292
The financial statements were approved by the board of directors and authorised for issue on 28 September 2022 and are signed on its behalf by:
C M Sharma
Director
Company Registration No. 00188491
JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021
- 12 -
Share capital
Share premium account
Capital redemption reserve
Profit and loss reserves
Total
Notes
£
£
£
£
£
Balance at 1 January 2020
126,862
339,079
38,138
33,632,631
34,136,710
Year ended 31 December 2020:
Profit and total comprehensive income for the year
-
-
-
4,595,472
4,595,472
Dividends
7
-
-
-
(399,890)
(399,890)
Balance at 31 December 2020
126,862
339,079
38,138
37,828,213
38,332,292
Year ended 31 December 2021:
Profit and total comprehensive income for the year
-
-
-
8,103,101
8,103,101
Dividends
7
-
-
-
(419,970)
(419,970)
Balance at 31 December 2021
126,862
339,079
38,138
45,511,344
46,015,423
JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021
- 13 -
1
Accounting policies
Company information

James Hargreaves (Plumbers' Merchants) Ltd is a private company limited by shares incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is Todmorden Road, Burnley, Lancashire, United Kingdom, BB11 3JT.

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.

The company has taken advantage of the Reduced Financial Reporting Regime, as permitted by FRS 102 regarding the disclosure requirements of Sections 3, 4, 7, 11, 12 and 33 of the standard. This information is included in the consolidated financial statements herein from a group perspective

James Hargreaves (Plumbers' Merchants) Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of James Hargreaves PM Limited. James Hargreaves PM Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of James Hargreaves Holdings Limited.The results of James Hargreaves (Plumbers' Merchants) Ltd are included in the consolidated financial statements of James Hargreaves Holdings Limited which are available from Companies House, Crown Way, Maindy, Cardiff, CF14 3UZ.

1.2
Going concern

Atruet the time of approving the financial statements, the directors have a reasonable expectation that the company has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the directors continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

1.3
Turnover

Turnover is recognised at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable for goods provided in the normal course of business, and is shown net of VAT and other sales related taxes. The fair value of consideration takes into account trade discounts, settlement discounts and volume rebates.

 

Turnover from the sale of goods is recognised when the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the goods have passed to the buyer (usually on the dispatch of goods), the amount of revenue can be reliably measured, it is probable that the economic benefits associated with the transaction will flow to the entity and the costs incurred or to be incurred in respect of the transaction can be measured reliably.

1.4
Intangible fixed assets other than goodwill

Intangible assets acquired separately from a business are recognised at cost and are subsequently measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses.

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

Licences
over 5 years on a straight line basis
JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 14 -
1.5
Tangible fixed assets

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

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

Land and buildings
2% per annum straight line
Fixtures and fittings
10% per annum straight line and 25% per annum reducing balance
Computers
20% per annum straight line
Motor vehicles
25% per annum reducing balance
1.6
Impairment of fixed assets

At each reporting period end date, the company reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible and intangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any). Where it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, the company estimates the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit to which the asset belongs.

1.7
Stocks

Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell.

 

Provisions are made against slow moving, obsolete and surplus stock.

 

1.8
Cash at bank and in hand

Cash at bank and in hand are basic financial assets and include cash in hand and deposits held at call.

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 measured at transaction price including transaction costs.

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.

JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 15 -
Basic financial liabilities

Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans that are classified as debt, are initially recognised at transaction price.

 

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 at transaction price.

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 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
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.

 

1.13
Retirement benefits

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

JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 16 -
1.14
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.

Rental income from operating leases is recognised on a straight line basis over the term of the relevant lease. Initial direct costs incurred in negotiating and arranging an operating lease are added to the carrying amount of the leased asset and recognised on a straight line basis over the lease term.

1.15
Government grants

Government grants are recognised at the fair value of the asset received or receivable when there is reasonable assurance that the grant conditions will be met and the grants will be received.

 

A grant that specifies performance conditions is recognised in income when the performance conditions are met. Where a grant does not specify performance conditions it is recognised in income when the proceeds are received or receivable. A grant received before the recognition criteria are satisfied is recognised as a liability.

JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021
- 17 -
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 and estimates

The following judgements and estimates have had the most significant effect on amounts recognised in the financial statements.

Stock provision

There is a degree of estimation uncertainty in relation to the calculation of the company's stock provision. When calculating the stock provision, management considers the age, nature and condition of the stock as well as applying assumptions around saleability of stock in the future.

Recoverability of trade debtors

The company makes an estimate of the recoverable value of trade and other debtors. When assessing the impairment of trade and other debtors, management considers factors including the ageing profile of trade debtors and past experience. For balances which management deem to be irrecoverable, a provision is made in the financial statements against these balances.

Classification of leases

Determination of whether leases entered into by the company as lessee are operating or finance leases. These decisions depend on an assessment of whether the risks and rewards of ownership have been transferred from the lessor to the lessee on a lease by lease basis.

 

3
Operating profit
2021
2020
Operating profit for the year is stated after charging/(crediting):
£
£
Government grants
(49,550)
(1,820,565)
Fees payable to the company's auditor for the audit of the company's financial statements
19,500
19,000
Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets
982,493
1,140,830
(Profit)/loss on disposal of tangible fixed assets
(10,369)
12,213
Amortisation of intangible assets
127,361
133,728
Operating lease charges
1,576,808
1,453,323
JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021
- 18 -
4
Employees

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

2021
2020
Number
Number
Administration and support
84
70
Sales, marketing and distribution
260
272
Total
344
342

Their aggregate remuneration comprised:

2021
2020
£
£
Wages and salaries
13,594,595
11,291,467
Social security costs
1,492,248
1,169,837
Pension costs
439,706
476,005
15,526,549
12,937,309
5
Directors' remuneration
2021
2020
£
£
Remuneration for qualifying services
3,211,533
2,376,232
Company pension contributions to defined contribution schemes
73,334
171,768
3,284,867
2,548,000

The number of directors for whom retirement benefits are accruing under defined contribution schemes amounted to 8 (2020 - 8).

Remuneration disclosed above include the following amounts paid to the highest paid director:
2021
2020
£
£
Remuneration for qualifying services
1,603,850
1,200,339
JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021
- 19 -
6
Taxation
2021
2020
£
£
Current tax
UK corporation tax on profits for the current period
1,951,021
1,175,000

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:

2021
2020
£
£
Profit before taxation
10,054,122
5,770,472
Expected tax charge based on the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 19.00% (2020: 19.00%)
1,910,283
1,096,390
Tax effect of expenses that are not deductible in determining taxable profit
8,667
11,573
Differences between capital allowances and depreciation
30,947
56,687
Under/(over) provided in prior years
1,124
10,350
Taxation charge for the year
1,951,021
1,175,000
7
Dividends
2021
2020
£
£
Interim paid
419,970
399,890
JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021
- 20 -
8
Intangible fixed assets
Licences
£
Cost
At 1 January 2021
964,754
Additions
12,250
At 31 December 2021
977,004
Amortisation and impairment
At 1 January 2021
490,940
Amortisation charged for the year
127,361
At 31 December 2021
618,301
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2021
358,703
At 31 December 2020
473,814
9
Tangible fixed assets
Land and buildings
Fixtures and fittings, computers and motor vehicles
Total
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 January 2021
3,075,945
11,144,892
14,220,837
Additions
487,735
865,469
1,353,204
Disposals
-
0
(91,132)
(91,132)
At 31 December 2021
3,563,680
11,919,229
15,482,909
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 January 2021
778,261
7,468,430
8,246,691
Depreciation charged in the year
47,130
935,363
982,493
Eliminated in respect of disposals
-
0
(70,685)
(70,685)
At 31 December 2021
825,391
8,333,108
9,158,499
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2021
2,738,289
3,586,121
6,324,410
At 31 December 2020
2,297,684
3,676,462
5,974,146
JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021
9
Tangible fixed assets
(Continued)
- 21 -

The carrying value of land and buildings comprises:

2021
2020
£
£
Freehold
1,276,135
804,592
Long leasehold
1,462,153
1,493,092
2,738,288
2,297,684
10
Stocks
2021
2020
£
£
Finished goods and goods for resale
16,012,733
13,239,660
11
Debtors
2021
2020
Amounts falling due within one year:
£
£
Trade debtors
13,801,480
11,802,684
Other debtors
8,480
7,245
Prepayments and accrued income
5,878,535
4,099,499
19,688,495
15,909,428
2021
2020
Amounts falling due after more than one year:
£
£
Amounts owed by group undertakings
6,358,578
6,358,578
Other debtors
185,049
194,369
6,543,627
6,552,947
Total debtors
26,232,122
22,462,375
JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021
- 22 -
12
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2021
2020
Notes
£
£
Other loans
13
751,691
713,171
Trade creditors
9,571,678
13,373,394
Corporation tax
1,073,789
692,768
Other taxation and social security
1,382,162
923,245
Other creditors
507,609
344,290
Accruals and deferred income
5,264,416
3,346,083
18,551,345
19,392,951
13
Loans and overdrafts
2021
2020
£
£
Other loans
751,691
713,171
Payable within one year
751,691
713,171

Other loans are unsecured, bear interest at 3.25% per annum and are repayable on demand.

 

14
Retirement benefit schemes
2021
2020
Defined contribution schemes
£
£
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes
439,706
476,005

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.

 

At 31 December 2021, the amount outstanding relating to defined contribution plans was £9,501 (2020 - £8,656)

15
Share capital
2021
2020
2021
2020
Ordinary share capital
Number
Number
£
£
Issued and fully paid
Ordinary shares of £1 each
126,862
126,862
126,862
126,862
JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021
- 23 -
16
Reserves

Share premium account - This reserve records the amount above the nominal value received for shares sold, less transaction costs.

 

Capital redemption reserve - This reserve records the nominal price of shares purchased wholly or partly out of distributable reserves.

 

Profit and loss account - This reserve records retained earnings and accumulated losses, less equity dividends paid.

17
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:

2021
2020
£
£
Within one year
943,875
1,007,359
Between two and five years
2,792,767
3,177,499
In over five years
332,142
1,019,595
4,068,784
5,204,453
18
Events after the reporting date

Subsequent to the year end, the company has purchased a property. The cost of the property was £1,200,000.

19
Related party transactions

The company's immediate parent is James Hargreaves PM Limited. The company has an outstanding balance due from James Hargreaves PM Limited of £1,486,507 (2020 - £1,486,507) which is unsecured and interest free.

 

The company's ultimate parent company is James Hargreaves Holdings Limited. The company has an outstanding balance due from James Hargreaves Holdings Limited of £4,872,071 (2020 - £4,457,784) which is unsecured and interest free.

20
Directors' transactions

At the balance sheet date, the amount due to Mr G J Rothwell was £404,947 (2020- £344,290).

 

At the balance sheet date, the amount due to Mr C Bridge was £102,662 (2020- £nil).

 

No repayment date has been set for the loans which are included within creditors amounts falling due within one year. The loans are unsecured.

JAMES HARGREAVES (PLUMBERS' MERCHANTS) LTD
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021
- 24 -
21
Ultimate controlling party

The company's immediate parent is James Hargreaves PM Limited, incorporated in England and Wales.

 

The most senior parent entity producing publicly available financial statements is James Hargreaves Holdings Limited. The consolidated financial statements of the group are available upon request from Companies House, Crown Way, Maindy, Cardiff, CF14 3UZ.

 

The ultimate controlling party is G J Rothwell by virtue of his family interest.

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