ACCOUNTS - Final Accounts


Caseware UK (AP4) 2022.0.179 2022.0.179 2022-12-312022-12-31falseNo description of principal activity2022-01-01truetruetrue276278truefalse 00149772 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 2021-01-01 2021-12-31 00149772 2022-12-31 00149772 2021-12-31 00149772 2021-01-01 00149772 1 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 1 2021-01-01 2021-12-31 00149772 4 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 4 2021-01-01 2021-12-31 00149772 d:CompanySecretary1 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 d:Director1 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 d:Director4 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 d:Director5 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 d:Director6 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 d:Director7 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 d:RegisteredOffice 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 e:PlantMachinery 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 e:PlantMachinery 2021-12-31 00149772 e:MotorVehicles 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 e:OtherPropertyPlantEquipment 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 e:OtherPropertyPlantEquipment 2021-12-31 00149772 e:CurrentFinancialInstruments 2022-12-31 00149772 e:CurrentFinancialInstruments 2021-12-31 00149772 e:CurrentFinancialInstruments e:WithinOneYear 2022-12-31 00149772 e:CurrentFinancialInstruments e:WithinOneYear 2021-12-31 00149772 e:ReportableOperatingSegment1 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 e:ReportableOperatingSegment1 2021-01-01 2021-12-31 00149772 e:ReportableOperatingSegment4 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 e:ReportableOperatingSegment4 2021-01-01 2021-12-31 00149772 e:UKTax 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 e:UKTax 2021-01-01 2021-12-31 00149772 e:ShareCapital 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 e:ShareCapital 2022-12-31 00149772 e:ShareCapital 2021-01-01 2021-12-31 00149772 e:ShareCapital 2021-12-31 00149772 e:ShareCapital 2021-01-01 00149772 e:OtherMiscellaneousReserve 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 e:OtherMiscellaneousReserve 2022-12-31 00149772 e:OtherMiscellaneousReserve 2021-01-01 2021-12-31 00149772 e:OtherMiscellaneousReserve 2021-12-31 00149772 e:OtherMiscellaneousReserve 2021-01-01 00149772 e:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 e:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses 2022-12-31 00149772 e:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses 2021-01-01 2021-12-31 00149772 e:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses 2021-12-31 00149772 e:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses 2021-01-01 00149772 e:FurtherSpecificTypeProvisionContingentLiability1ComponentTotalProvisionsContingentLiabilities 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 e:FurtherSpecificTypeProvisionContingentLiability1ComponentTotalProvisionsContingentLiabilities 2022-12-31 00149772 e:FurtherSpecificTypeProvisionContingentLiability1ComponentTotalProvisionsContingentLiabilities 2021-12-31 00149772 d:OrdinaryShareClass1 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 d:OrdinaryShareClass1 2022-12-31 00149772 d:OrdinaryShareClass1 2021-12-31 00149772 d:FRS102 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 d:Audited 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 d:FullAccounts 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 d:PrivateLimitedCompanyLtd 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 e:TaxLossesCarry-forwardsDeferredTax 2022-12-31 00149772 e:TaxLossesCarry-forwardsDeferredTax 2021-12-31 00149772 2 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 00149772 6 2022-01-01 2022-12-31 xbrli:shares iso4217:GBP xbrli:pure

Registered number: 00149772










FURROWS LIMITED










ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
COMPANY INFORMATION


Directors
N I Coward 
D C Farthing 
W Downey 
N Burgess 
A Frost 




Company secretary
N Burgess



Registered number
00149772



Registered office
The Shrewsbury Garage
Benbow Business Park

Harlescott Lane

Shrewsbury

Shropshire

SY1 3EQ




Independent auditors
WR Partners
Chartered Accountants & Statutory Auditors

Belmont House

Shrewsbury Business Park

Shrewsbury

Shropshire

SY2 6LG





 
FURROWS LIMITED
 

CONTENTS



Page
Strategic report
 
1 - 4
Directors' report
 
5 - 7
Independent auditors' report
 
8 - 11
Profit and loss account
 
12
Statement of comprehensive income
 
13
Balance sheet
 
14 - 15
Statement of changes in equity
 
16
Notes to the financial statements
 
17 - 38


 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
STRATEGIC REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

Business review
 
In the year to 31 December 2022 the Company generated an operating profit of £2,558,012 from turnover of £97,267,487. This turnover was £9,201,496 higher than that achieved in 2021. The increase in gross margin of £1,475,496 was largely offset by an increase in administrative expenses of £1,016,619. This was due in the main to a return to a more normalised cost based post Covid and wage inflation.  
Continued diversification within the motor dealership trade, combined with the significant contributions of a great number of people throughout the business, and strong partnerships, enabled a strong performance in the year. 
The Company continues its strategy of reinvestment, with profits generated in the year being retained in the business. The financial statements report on a continuing period of consolidation with the net assets of the Company increasing to £7,961,346 (2021: £6,191,881) and net current assets at 31 December 2022 of £9,899,365 (2021: £8,385,643).

Principal risks and uncertainties
 
The business activities, financial condition and trading results are subject to risk factors and uncertainties that the Directors keep under review. The Directors are of the opinion that principal risks and uncertainties facing the Group relate to general economic and market conditions, which influence cost, pricing and the demand for its products and services as well as supply.
Economic risks and uncertainties brought about by the Coronavirus pandemic and Brexit are also closely monitored by the Directors.
The Directors consider that the Group is well placed to continue in line with its business strategy.

Financial key performance indicators
 
The Group measures its financial performance and broader position by reference to key performance indicators. The key performance indicators used by the business include those relating to turnover, operating profit and net assets as referenced in the business review above.

Other key performance indicators
 
The Group uses a range of other KPI's to monitor and measure performance within the business on a regular basis.  These cover the whole business and reflect its evolving nature. KPI’s cover diverse areas of the business such as customer service and productivity.

Page 1

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 

STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

Directors' statement of compliance with duty to promote the success of the Company
 
The board of directors consider, both individually and together, that they have acted in a way they consider, in good faith, would be most likely to promote the success of the Company for the benefit of its members as a whole (having regard to the stakeholders and matters set out in s172(1)(a) (f) of the Act) in the decisions taken during the year ended 31 December 2022.
Decision making at the Board
The Directors meet on a regular basis. When making decisions which are in the best interests of the Company and the Group they consider any potential impacts and risks for our customers, employees (both current and former employees, by reference to the Furrows pension Scheme, and as a future significant employer within our communities) and other stakeholders including our partners, suppliers, the communities in which we operate, and serve, and the environment and how they are to be managed. 
 
Page 2

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 

STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

Stakeholders
Our key stakeholders are our employees, customers, partners, suppliers, finance providers and the communities in which we operate. We take a current and future view in relation to all such stakeholders.
Sustainability
Furrows is a family business in its widest sense, and we consider the “Furrows Family” to be of great significance. We are proud that it has now provided employment, training and financial reward for its employees and owners and benefits for a wide group of stakeholders for over 100 years. When making business decisions we consider the needs of our current and future customers, employees, suppliers and the communities in which we operate to ensure we are conducting all our business relationships with integrity, as well as ongoing responsibilities for previous staff. The continued sustainability of the Company and the wider Group is paramount in our decision making, particularly in response to the challenging economic conditions and the Coronavirus pandemic.  
Employees
Our people are fundamental to the delivery of our business plans. We aim to be a responsible employer in our approach to the pay and benefits our people receive. The health, safety and well being of our team is one of our primary considerations in the way we do business. We place considerable value on the involvement of our employees and continue to keep them informed on matters affecting them.
Customers
Engagement with customers who form the community we serve is key to our success. We are proud of our award-winning customer service and ensure that this is maintained through customer satisfaction surveys, social media, focus group meetings and a dedicated customer service team.
Partners and Suppliers
The Company operates a franchise business model in its motor trading subsidiary and therefore strong relationships with manufacturers is fundamental to what we do. We maintain regular communication with our key suppliers through regular reporting, conferences and councils. 
Finance Providers
The Company seeks to make information available to financial stakeholders, including our relationship bank with whom we are proud to have had a strong relationship for over 100 years, as part of information provided about and by the Company and the Group.
Communities and environment
The Company and the Group aim to use their resources to create positive change for the communities and the environment in which we operate. We are very pleased to have recently been recognised by the British Chamber of Commerce as a 'UK Business Hero 2020' to recognise that we 'have gone the extra mile to support their local community during the Coronavirus outbreak'. 
Business Conduct
The Board of Directors always strive to behave responsibly and ensure that the management of the Company and the Group operate the business in a responsible manner and with high standards of business conduct and governance. 

Page 3

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 

STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022


This report was approved by the board and signed on its behalf.





N I Coward
Director

Date: 21 June 2023

Page 4

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

The Directors present their report and the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2022.

Directors' responsibilities statement

The Directors are responsible for preparing the Strategic report, the Directors' 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 applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice), including Financial Reporting Standard 102 ‘The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland'. 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 for the Company's financial statements 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 to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006They 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.

Results and dividends

The profit for the year, after taxation, amounted to £1,858,965 (2021 - £1,876,118).

No dividends were paid in the year.

Directors

The Directors who served during the year were:

N I Coward 
D C Farthing 
W Downey 
N Burgess 
A Frost 

Page 5

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

Financial instruments

The Company's operations expose it to a variety of financial risks that include credit risk, liquidity risk and interest rate risk. The Company has in place a risk management programme that seeks to limit the adverse effects on the financial performance of the Company by monitoring levels of debt finance and the related finance costs.
Credit risk - The Company has implemented policies that require appropriate credit checks on potential customers where credit sales are made. 
Liquidity risk - The Company actively maintains a mixture of long term and short term debt finance that is designed to ensure that it has sufficient available funds for operations and any planned expansions.
Interest rate cash flow risk - The Company has interest bearing liabilities in the form of bank and financing facilities. Interest cash flows are monitored on a regular basis and interest rates are agreed at fixed rates where possible to ensure the certainty of future interest cash flows.   

Disabled employees

Applications for employment by disabled persons are fully considered, bearing in mind the respective aptitude and abilities of the applicant concerned. In the event of members of staff becoming disabled, every effort is made to ensure that employment with the Company continues and that the training, career development and promotion opportunities of disabled persons  should, as far as possible, be identical to that of other employees.
Qualifying Third Party Indemnity Provisions
During the year, and at the date of signing this report, the Company maintained liability insurance and third party indemnification provisions for its Directors, under which the Company has agreed to indemnify the Directors to the extent permitted by law in respect of all liabilities to third parties arising out of, or in connection with, the execution of their powers, duties and responsibilities as Directors of the Company and any of its associated companies.

Greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption and energy efficiency action

Information in relation to greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption and energy efficiency action are included in the accounts of the parent company, Furrows Holdings Limited. 

Matters covered in the Strategic report

Disclosure of engagement with employees, suppliers, customers and others are included in the Strategic Report.
Future developments are also disclosed in the Strategic Report. 

Page 6

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022


Disclosure of information to auditors

Each of the persons who are Directors at the time when this Directors' report is approved has confirmed that:
 
so far as the Director is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the Company's auditors are unaware, and

the Director has taken all the steps that ought to have been taken as a Director in order to be aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the Company's auditors are aware of that information.

Post balance sheet events

There have been no significant events affecting the Company since the year end.

Auditors

The auditorsWR Partnerswill be proposed for reappointment in accordance with section 485 of the Companies Act 2006.

This report was approved by the board and signed on its behalf.
 





N I Coward
Director

Date: 21 June 2023

Page 7

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF FURROWS LIMITED
 

Opinion


We have audited the financial statements of Furrows Limited (the 'Company') for the year ended 31 December 2022, which comprise the Profit and loss account, the Statement of comprehensive income, the Balance sheet, the Statement of changes in equity and the related notes, including a summary of significant accounting policiesThe financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 ‘The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).


In our opinion the financial statements:


give a true and fair view of the state of the Company's affairs as at 31 December 2022 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 Auditors' 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 United Kingdom, including the Financial Reporting Council'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.


Page 8

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF FURROWS LIMITED (CONTINUED)


Other information


The other information comprises the information included in the Annual Report other than the financial statements and  our Auditors' 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.


Opinion on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006
 

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


Matters on which we are required to report by exception
 

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the Company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the Strategic report or the Directors' report.


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


adequate accounting records have not been kept, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or
the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or
certain disclosures of Directors' remuneration specified by law are not made; or
we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.


Responsibilities of Directors
 

As explained more fully in the Directors' responsibilities statement set out on page 5, 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.


Page 9

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF FURROWS LIMITED (CONTINUED)


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


Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below:

The audit team obtained an understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks that are applicable to the Company and determined that the most significant are those that relate to the reporting framework (FRS102 and the Companies Act 2006), the relevant tax compliance regulations, employment law, Health and Safety Regulations and the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
We understood how the Company is complying with these frameworks by making enquiries of management and those responsible for legal and compliance procedures. 
We assessed the susceptibility of the Company's financial statements to material misstatement, including how fraud might occur by meeting with key management to understand where they considered there was susceptibility to fraud. Based on our understanding our procedures involved enquiries of management and those charged with governance, manual journal entry testing, cashbook reviews for large and unusual items and the challenge of significant accounting estimates used in preparing the financial statements.


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


A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our Auditors' report.


Page 10

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF FURROWS LIMITED (CONTINUED)


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 2006Our 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 Auditors' 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.





John Fletcher BA FCA (Senior statutory auditor)
  
for and on behalf of
WR Partners
 
Chartered Accountants
Statutory Auditors
  
Belmont House
Shrewsbury Business Park
Shrewsbury
Shropshire
SY2 6LG

 
Date: 
21 June 2023
Page 11

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
PROFIT AND LOSS ACCOUNT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

2022
2021
                                                                                               Note
£
£

  

Turnover
 4 
97,267,487
88,065,991

Cost of sales
  
(85,573,426)
(77,847,426)

Gross profit
  
11,694,061
10,218,565

Administrative expenses
  
(9,132,275)
(8,115,656)

Other operating income
 5 
-
335,516

Fair value movements
  
(3,774)
10,759

Operating profit
  
2,558,012
2,449,184

Income from other fixed asset investments
  
1,608
-

Interest receivable and similar income
  
1,115
(48)

Interest payable and similar expenses
 10 
(182,989)
(151,098)

Other finance income
  
(34,000)
(50,000)

Profit before tax
  
2,343,746
2,248,038

Tax on profit
 12 
(484,781)
(371,920)

Profit for the financial year
  
1,858,965
1,876,118

The notes on pages 17 to 38 form part of these financial statements.

Page 12

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 

STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

2022
2021
Note
£
£


Profit for the financial year

  

1,858,965
1,876,118

Other comprehensive income
  


Actuarial (loss)/gain on defined benefit schemes
  
(94,000)
1,663,000

Movement on deferred tax relating to pension gains/(losses)
  
23,500
(249,950)

Other comprehensive income for the year
  
(70,500)
1,413,050

Total comprehensive income for the year
  
1,788,465
3,289,168

The notes on pages 17 to 38 form part of these financial statements.

Page 13

 
FURROWS LIMITED
REGISTERED NUMBER: 00149772

BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2022

2022
2021
Note
£
£

Fixed assets
  

Tangible assets
 13 
304,070
393,649

Investments
 14 
52,809
56,583

  
356,879
450,232

Current assets
  

Stocks
 15 
16,404,892
16,092,157

Debtors: amounts falling due within one year
 16 
10,314,853
11,169,561

Cash at bank and in hand
 17 
2,434,028
520,104

  
29,153,773
27,781,822

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
 18 
(19,235,408)
(19,396,179)

Net current assets
  
 
 
9,918,365
 
 
8,385,643

Total assets less current liabilities
  
10,275,244
8,835,875

  

Provisions for liabilities
  

Other provisions
 21 
(612,898)
(637,994)

  
 
 
(612,898)
 
 
(637,994)

Net assets excluding pension liability
  
9,662,346
8,197,881

Pension liability
  
(1,682,000)
(2,006,000)

Net assets
  
7,980,346
6,191,881

Page 14

 
FURROWS LIMITED
REGISTERED NUMBER: 00149772
    
BALANCE SHEET (CONTINUED)
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2022

2022
2021
Note
£
£

Capital and reserves
  

Called up share capital 
 22 
43,102
43,102

Other Reserves
 23 
(48,513)
(44,739)

Profit And Loss Account
 23 
7,985,757
6,193,518

  
7,980,346
6,191,881


The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the board and were signed on its behalf by: 




N I Coward
Director

Date: 21 June 2023

The notes on pages 17 to 38 form part of these financial statements.

Page 15

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022


Called up share capital
Other reserves
Profit and loss account
Total equity

£
£
£
£


At 1 January 2021
43,102
(55,498)
2,915,109
2,902,713


Comprehensive income for the year

Profit for the year

-
-
1,876,118
1,876,118

Actuarial gains on pension scheme
-
-
1,413,050
1,413,050


Other comprehensive income for the year
-
-
1,413,050
1,413,050


Total comprehensive income for the year
-
-
3,289,168
3,289,168

-
-
-
-

Fair value movement
-
10,759
(10,759)
-


At 31 December 2021
-
10,759
(10,759)
-



At 1 January 2022
43,102
(44,739)
6,193,518
6,191,881


Comprehensive income for the year

Profit for the year

-
-
1,858,965
1,858,965

Actuarial losses on pension scheme
-
-
(70,500)
(70,500)


Other comprehensive income for the year
-
-
(70,500)
(70,500)


Total comprehensive income for the year
-
-
1,788,465
1,788,465

-
-
-
-

Fair value movement
-
(3,774)
3,774
-


Total transactions with owners
-
(3,774)
3,774
-


At 31 December 2022
43,102
(48,513)
7,985,757
7,980,346


The notes on pages 17 to 38 form part of these financial statements.

Page 16

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

1.


General information

Furrows Limited is a company limited by shares, incorporated in England. The registered office is disclosed on the Company Information page. 
The principal activity of the business is the sale of motor vehicles and associated activities.

2.Accounting policies

 
2.1

Basis of preparation of financial statements

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention unless otherwise specified within these accounting policies and in accordance with Financial Reporting Standard 102, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and the Republic of Ireland and the Companies Act 2006.

The preparation of financial statements in compliance with FRS 102 requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also requires management to exercise judgement in applying the Company's accounting policies (see note 3).

The following principal accounting policies have been applied:


 
2.2

Financial Reporting Standard 102 - reduced disclosure exemptions

The Company has taken advantage of the following disclosure exemptions in preparing these financial statements, as permitted by the FRS 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland":
the requirements of Section 7 Statement of Cash Flows;
the requirements of Section 3 Financial Statement Presentation paragraph 3.17(d);
the requirements of Section 33 Related Party Disclosures paragraph 33.7.

This information is included in the consolidated financial statements of Furrows Holdings Limited as at 31 December 2021 and these financial statements may be obtained from Companies House.

 
2.3

Going concern

In assessing the appropriateness of the going concern basis in preparing the accounts the Directors have considered the current financial position of the Company and the wider Group along with detailed forecasts for a period of 12 months after the date of the signing of these accounts. 
In reviewing the forecasts the Directors have considered the headroom in the finance facilities which the Directors have a reasonable expectation will be renewed. 
The Directors consider that the Company is well positioned and have reasonable expectations that it has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. The Company therefore continues to adopt the going concern basis in preparing its financial statements. 

Page 17

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.4

Revenue

Revenue is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Company and the revenue can be reliably measured. Revenue is measured as the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, excluding discounts, rebates, value added tax and other sales taxes. The following criteria must also be met before revenue is recognised:

Sale of goods

Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised when all of the following conditions are satisfied:
the Company has transferred the significant risks and rewards of ownership to the buyer;
the Company retains neither continuing managerial involvement to the degree usually associated with ownership nor effective control over the goods sold;
the amount of revenue can be measured reliably;
it is probable that the Company will receive the consideration due under the transaction; and
the costs incurred or to be incurred in respect of the transaction can be measured reliably.

Rendering of services

Revenue from a contract to provide services is recognised in the period in which the services are provided in accordance with the stage of completion of the contract when all of the following conditions are satisfied:
the amount of revenue can be measured reliably;
it is probable that the Company will receive the consideration due under the contract;
the stage of completion of the contract at the end of the reporting period can be measured reliably; and
the costs incurred and the costs to complete the contract can be measured reliably.

Page 18

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.5

Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are stated at cost less depreciation.
At each reporting date the Company assesses whether there is any indication of impairment. If such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is determined which is the higher of its fair value less costs to sell and its value in use. An impairment loss is recognised where the carrying amount exceeds the recoverable amount.

Depreciation is charged so as to allocate the cost of assets less their residual value over their estimated useful lives, using the straight-line method.

Depreciation is provided on the following basis:

Plant, machinery and office equipment
-
10 - 25%
Motor Vehicles
-
36 - 42%

The assets' residual values, useful lives and depreciation methods are reviewed, and adjusted prospectively if appropriate, or if there is an indication of a significant change since the last reporting date.

Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing the proceeds with the carrying amount and are recognised in profit or loss.

 
2.6

Valuation of investments

Unlisted investments held as fixed assets are shown at cost less provision for impairment.
Investments in listed company shares are remeasured to market value at each balance sheet date. Gains and losses on remeasurement are recognised in profit or loss for the period.

Page 19

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.7

Stocks

Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value, being the estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell. Work in progress and finished goods include labour and attributable overheads.
At each balance sheet date, stocks are assessed for impairment. If stock is impaired, the carrying amount is reduced to its selling price less costs to complete and sell. The impairment loss is recognised immediately in profit or loss.
Consignment Stock
Consignment vehicles that are regarded effectively as being under the control of the Company due to the transfer of the risks and responsibilities, are included within new vehicle stocks on the balance sheet, although legal title has not passed to the Company. The corresponding liability is included within trade creditors and is secured directly on these vehicles.

 
2.8

Debtors

Short-term debtors are measured at transaction price, less any impairment. Loans receivable are measured initially at fair value, net of transaction costs, and are measured subsequently at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less any impairment.

 
2.9

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash is represented by cash in hand and deposits with financial institutions repayable without penalty on notice of not more than 24 hours. Cash equivalents are highly liquid investments that mature in no more than three months from the date of acquisition and that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash with insignificant risk of change in value.

 
2.10

Financial instruments

The Company only enters into basic financial instrument transactions that result in the recognition of financial assets and liabilities like trade and other debtors and creditors, loans from banks and other third parties, loans to related parties and investments in ordinary shares.

Debt instruments (other than those wholly repayable or receivable within one year), including loans and other accounts receivable and payable, are initially measured at present value of the future cash flows and subsequently at amortised cost using the effective interest method. Debt instruments that are payable or receivable within one year, typically trade debtors and creditors, are measured, initially and subsequently, at the undiscounted amount of the cash or other consideration expected to be paid or received. However, if the arrangements of a short-term instrument constitute a financing transaction, like the payment of a trade debt deferred beyond normal business terms or in case of an out-right short-term loan that is not at market rate, the financial asset or liability is measured, initially at the present value of future cash flows discounted at a market rate of interest for a similar debt instrument and subsequently at amortised cost, unless it qualifies as a loan from a director in the case of a small company, or a public benefit entity concessionary loan.

Financial assets that are measured at cost and amortised cost are assessed at the end of each reporting period for objective evidence of impairment. If objective evidence of impairment is found, an impairment loss is recognised in the Profit and loss account.

For financial assets measured at cost less impairment, the impairment loss is measured as the
Page 20

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

2.Accounting policies (continued)


2.10
Financial instruments (continued)

difference between an asset's carrying amount and best estimate of the recoverable amount, which is an approximation of the amount that the Company would receive for the asset if it were to be sold at the balance sheet date.

Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount reported in the Balance sheet when there is an 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.

 
2.11

Creditors

Short-term creditors are measured at the transaction price. Other financial liabilities, including bank loans, are measured initially at fair value, net of transaction costs, and are measured subsequently at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

 
2.12

Government grants

Grants are accounted under the accruals model as permitted by FRS 102. Grants relating to expenditure on tangible fixed assets are credited to profit or loss at the same rate as the depreciation on the assets to which the grant relates. The deferred element of grants is included in creditors as deferred income.
Grants of a revenue nature are recognised in the Profit and loss account in the same period as the related expenditure.

 
2.13

Finance costs

Finance costs are charged to profit or loss over the term of the debt using the effective interest method so that the amount charged is at a constant rate on the carrying amount. Issue costs are initially recognised as a reduction in the proceeds of the associated capital instrument.

Page 21

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.14

Pensions

Defined contribution pension plan

The Company operates a defined contribution plan for its employees. A defined contribution plan is a pension plan under which the Company pays fixed contributions into a separate entity. Once the contributions have been paid the Company has no further payment obligations.

The contributions are recognised as an expense in profit or loss when they fall due. Amounts not paid are shown in accruals as a liability in the Balance sheet. The assets of the plan are held separately from the Company in independently administered funds.

Defined benefit pension plan

The Company operates a defined benefit plan for certain employees. A defined benefit plan defines the pension benefit that the employee will receive on retirement, usually dependent upon several factors including but not limited to age, length of service and remuneration. A defined benefit plan is a pension plan that is not a defined contribution plan.

The liability recognised in the Balance sheet in respect of the defined benefit plan is the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the end of the balance sheet date less the fair value of plan assets at the balance sheet date (if any) out of which the obligations are to be settled.

The defined benefit obligation is calculated using the projected unit credit method. Annually the Company engages independent actuaries to calculate the obligation. The present value is determined by discounting the estimated future payments using market yields on high quality corporate bonds that are denominated in sterling and that have terms approximating to the estimated period of the future payments ('discount rate').

The fair value of plan assets is measured in accordance with the FRS 102 fair value hierarchy and in accordance with the Company's policy for similarly held assets. This includes the use of appropriate valuation techniques.

Actuarial gains and losses arising from experience adjustments and changes in actuarial assumptions are charged or credited to other comprehensive income. These amounts together with the return on plan assets, less amounts included in net interest, are disclosed as 'Remeasurement of net defined benefit liability'.

The cost of the defined benefit plan, recognised in profit or loss as employee costs, except where included in the cost of an asset, comprises:

a) the increase in net pension benefit liability arising from employee service during the period; and

b) the cost of plan introductions, benefit changes, curtailments and settlements.

The net interest cost is calculated by applying the discount rate to the net balance of the defined benefit obligation and the fair value of plan assets. This cost is recognised in profit or loss as a 'finance expense'.

 
2.15

Interest income

Interest income is recognised in profit or loss using the effective interest method.

Page 22

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.16

Borrowing costs

All borrowing costs are recognised in profit or loss in the year in which they are incurred.

 
2.17

Provisions for liabilities

Provisions are made where an event has taken place that gives the Company a legal or constructive obligation that probably requires settlement by a transfer of economic benefit, and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.
Provisions are charged as an expense to profit or loss in the year that the Company becomes aware of the obligation, and are measured at the best estimate at the balance sheet date of the expenditure required to settle the obligation, taking into account relevant risks and uncertainties.
When payments are eventually made, they are charged to the provision carried in the Balance sheet.

 
2.18

Current and deferred taxation

The tax expense for the year comprises current and deferred tax. Tax is recognised in profit or loss except that a charge attributable to an item of income and expense recognised as other comprehensive income or to an item recognised directly in equity is also recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity respectively.

The current income tax charge is calculated on the basis of tax rates and laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date in the countries where the Company operates and generates income.

Deferred tax balances are recognised in respect of all timing differences that have originated but not reversed by the balance sheet, except that:
The recognition of deferred tax assets is limited to the extent that it is probable that they will be recovered against the reversal of deferred tax liabilities or other future taxable profits; and
Any deferred tax balances are reversed if and when all conditions for retaining associated tax allowances have been met.

Deferred tax balances are not recognised in respect of permanent differences except in respect of business combinations, when deferred tax is recognised on the differences between the fair values of assets acquired and the future tax deductions available for them and the differences between the fair values of liabilities acquired and the amount that will be assessed for tax. Deferred tax is determined using tax rates and laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date.

Page 23

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

3.


Judgements in applying accounting policies and key sources of estimation uncertainty

Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.
The Company makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates will, by definition, seldom equal the related actual results. In the opinion of the Directors there are no estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year. 
Dilapidation provision
The Company provides a provision for costs to restore sites leased by the Company for which the lease agreements contain a legal obligation to restore the locations to their original state at the end of the lease period. The total provision at balance sheet date is disclosed in note 21 of these accounts.


4.


Turnover

An analysis of turnover by class of business is as follows:


2022
2021
£
£

Vehicle sales
82,458,831
73,928,275

Other motor dealership related sales and income
14,808,656
14,137,716

97,267,487
88,065,991


All turnover arose within the United Kingdom.


5.


Other operating income

2022
2021
£
£

Government grants receivable
-
335,516

-
335,516


Page 24

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

6.


Auditors' remuneration

During the year, the Company obtained the following services from the Company's auditors and their associates:


2022
2021
£
£

Fees payable to the Company's auditors and their associates for the audit of the Company's financial statements
22,300
23,000

Fees payable to the Company's auditors and their associates in respect of:

Preparation of the financial statements
4,025
4,025

Services relating to taxation
2,975
2,975


7.


Employees

Staff costs, including Directors' remuneration, were as follows:


2022
2021
£
£

Wages and salaries
7,909,749
6,775,923

Social security costs
324,924
649,941

Cost of defined benefit scheme
181,000
164,000

Cost of defined contribution scheme
146,331
124,808

8,562,004
7,714,672


The average monthly number of employees, including the Directors, during the year was as follows:


        2022
        2021
            No.
            No.







Sales
111
127



Technicians and workshop
115
102



Administration
52
47

278
276

Page 25

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

8.


Directors' remuneration

2022
2021
£
£

Directors' emoluments
641,172
205,688

Company contributions to defined contribution pension schemes
2,634
1,319

643,806
207,007


During the year retirement benefits were accruing to 2 Directors (2021 - 1) in respect of defined contribution pension schemes.

The highest paid Director received remuneration of £200,000 (2021 - £133,100).


9.


Income from investments

2022
2021
£
£



Income from current asset investments
1,608
-

1,608
-





10.


Interest payable and similar expenses

2022
2021
£
£


Vehicle stocking interest
182,989
151,098

182,989
151,098


11.


Other finance costs

2022
2021
£
£

Interest income on pension scheme assets
300,000
191,000

Interest on pension scheme obligation
(334,000)
(241,000)

(34,000)
(50,000)


Page 26

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

12.


Taxation


2022
2021
£
£

Corporation tax


Current tax on profits for the year
380,281
400,396


380,281
400,396


Total current tax
380,281
400,396

Deferred tax


Origination and reversal of timing differences
79,420
(37,468)

Changes to tax rates
25,080
8,992

Total deferred tax
104,500
(28,476)


Taxation on profit on ordinary activities
484,781
371,920
Page 27

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022
 
12.Taxation (continued)


Factors affecting tax charge for the year

The tax assessed for the year is higher than (2021 - lower than) the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 19% (2021 - 19%). The differences are explained below:

2022
2021
£
£


Profit on ordinary activities before tax
2,343,746
2,248,038


Profit on ordinary activities multiplied by standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 19% (2021 - 19%)
445,312
427,128

Effects of:


Fixed asset differences
8,520
6,474

Pension scheme movements
-
(54,340)

Short-term timing difference leading to an increase (decrease) in taxation
5,869
(5,298)

Other differences leading to an increase (decrease) in the tax charge
-
(2,044)

Change in tax rates
25,080
-

Total tax charge for the year
484,781
371,920


Factors that may affect future tax charges

The pension payments made during the year have reduced the pension deficit provision, whilst interest on the scheme's assets and liabilities have been charged to the Statement of Comprehensive Income. For corporation tax purposes it is only the pension payments made that are deductible for tax purposes.
From 1 April 2023, the main rate of Corporation Tax increased from 19% to 25% for companies in the United Kingdom with profits exceeding £250,000. As a result, deferred tax balances at 31 December 2022 have been calculated at 25%.

Page 28

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

13.


Tangible fixed assets





Plant, machinery and office equipment
Motor vehicles
Total

£
£
£



Cost or valuation


At 1 January 2022
3,088,794
256,712
3,345,506


Additions
85,702
-
85,702



At 31 December 2022
3,174,496
256,712
3,431,208



Depreciation



At 1 January 2022
2,695,145
256,712
2,951,857


Charge for the year on owned assets
175,281
-
175,281



At 31 December 2022
2,870,426
256,712
3,127,138



Net book value




At 31 December 2022
304,070
-
304,070



At 31 December 2021
393,649
-
393,649


14.


Fixed asset investments





Listed Investments
Unlisted Investments
Total

£
£
£



Cost or valuation


At 1 January 2022
46,583
10,000
56,583


Revaluations
(3,774)
-
(3,774)



At 31 December 2022
42,809
10,000
52,809




Page 29

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

15.


Stocks

2022
2021
£
£

New vehicles
9,079,586
8,021,225

Used vehicles
4,672,746
5,849,980

Parts and other stocks
876,083
828,808

Demo and courtesy vehicles
1,776,477
1,392,144

16,404,892
16,092,157


The difference between purchase price of stocks and their replacement cost is not material.
Included within new vehicle stock is £7,111,890 (2021 - £7,275,954) in relation to consignment stock. A corresponding liability is included within trade creditors in relation to these vehicles.


16.


Debtors

2022
2021
£
£


Trade debtors
1,269,935
893,481

Amounts owed by group undertakings
8,002,928
9,308,723

Other debtors
388,267
271,147

Prepayments and accrued income
233,223
194,710

Deferred taxation
420,500
501,500

10,314,853
11,169,561


Amounts owed by group undertakings are repayable on demand and do not accrue interest. 


17.


Cash and cash equivalents

2022
2021
£
£

Cash at bank and in hand
2,434,028
520,104

2,434,028
520,104


Page 30

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

18.


Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year

2022
2021
£
£

Stocking loans
2,606,703
3,737,310

Bank loans
1,250,000
1,250,000

Trade creditors
10,853,610
9,009,028

Amounts owed to group undertakings
932,258
2,184,046

Corporation tax
380,281
400,396

Other taxation and social security
1,409,252
882,500

Other creditors
133,691
37,594

Accruals and deferred income
1,669,613
1,895,305

19,235,408
19,396,179


Amounts owed to group undertakings are repayable on demand and do not incur an interest charge. 
Secured loans
The bank loans and overdraft facility are secured by a fixed and floating charge over the whole of the Company's assets and certain assets of the parent Company. The bank overdraft facility reflects a revolving credit facility. 
Other balances of £8,933,417 (2021 - £7,979,811) included within trade creditors and stocking loans of £2,606,703 (2021 - £3,737,310) are secured over certain stocks of the Company.


19.


Loans


Analysis of the maturity of loans is given below:


2022
2021
£
£

Amounts falling due within one year

Bank loans
1,250,000
1,250,000

Stocking loans
2,606,703
3,737,310


3,856,703
4,987,310





Page 31

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

20.


Deferred taxation




2022


£






At beginning of year
501,500


Charged to profit or loss
(104,500)


Charged to other comprehensive income
23,500



At end of year
420,500

The deferred tax balance is made up as follows:

2022
2021
£
£


Pension deficit
420,500
501,500

420,500
501,500

Comprising:

Asset - due within one year
420,500
501,500

420,500
501,500



21.


Provisions




Dilapidation Provision

£





At 1 January 2022
637,994


Utilised in year
(25,096)



At 31 December 2022
612,898

Dilapidation provision
The provision relates to the estimated dilapidation costs where payable on leases.

Page 32

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

22.


Share capital

2022
2021
£
£
Allotted, called up and fully paid



43,102 (2021 - 43,102) Ordinary shares of £1.00 each
43,102
43,102



23.


Reserves

Other reserves

Other reserves represent unrealised gains and losses arising on the revaluation of the Company's investment in listed shares to fair value. 

Profit & loss account

The profit and loss account represents the accumulated profits of the Company since incorporation less distributions made to shareholders.


24.


Contingent liabilities

The Company is a member of a group guarantee arrangement with Furrows Holdings Limited, Furrows Properties Limited and Security Investments (Industrial) Limited.

Page 33

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022


25.


Pension commitments

The Company operates a defined contributions pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the Company in an independently administered fund. The pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the Company to the fund and amounted to £146,331 (2021 - £123,489). Contributions totalling £31,993 (2021 - £1,103) were payable to the fund at the balance sheet date and are included in other creditors.

The Company also operates a defined benefit pension scheme.

The Scheme provides benefits based on final salary and length of service on retirement, leaving service or death. 
The Scheme is subject to the Statutory Funding Objective under the Pensions Act 2004. A valuation of the Scheme is carried out at least once every three years to determine whether the Statutory Funding Objective is met. As part of the process the Company must agree with the Trustees of the Scheme the contributions to be paid to meet the Statutory Funding Objective.
The most recent comprehensive actuarial valuation of the Scheme was carried out as at 5 April 2022 and the next valuation of the Scheme is due as at 5 April 2025. In the event that the next valuation reveals a larger deficit than expected the Company may be required to increase contributions above existing levels. Conversely, if the position is better than expected, it’s possible that contributions may be reduced.
The Company expects to pay contributions of £500,000 in the year to 31 December 2023.
The Scheme is managed by a board of Trustees appointed in part by the Company and part from elections by members of the Scheme. The Trustees have responsibility for obtaining valuations of the fund, administering benefit payments and investing the Scheme's assets. The Trustees delegate some of these functions to their professional advisers where appropriate.
The Scheme exposes the Company to a number of risks:
- Investment risk. The Scheme holds investments in asset classes, such as equities, which have volatile market values and while these assets are expected to provide real returns over the long-term the short term volatility can cause additional funding to be required if deficit emerges.
- Interest rate risk. The Scheme's liabilities are assessed using market yields on high quality corporate bonds to discount the liabilities. As the Scheme holds assets such as equities the value of the assets and liabilities may not move in the same way.
- Inflation risk. A significant proportion of the benefits under the Scheme are linked to inflation. Although the Scheme's assets are expected to provide a good hedge against inflation over the long term, movements over the short-term could lead to deficits emerging.
- Mortality risk. In the event that members live longer than assumed a deficit will emerge in the Scheme.  
There were no plan amendments, curtailments or settlements during the period.
The weighted average duration of the defined benefit obligation is around 14 years.
 
Page 34

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022
 
25.Pension commitments (continued)




Reconciliation of present value of plan liabilities:


2022
2021
£
£



At the beginning of the year
17,890,000
18,816,000

Interest cost
334,000
241,000

Actuarial gains/losses
(5,695,000)
(556,000)

Benefits paid
(608,000)
(611,000)

At the end of the year
11,921,000
17,890,000



Reconciliation of present value of plan assets:


2022
2021
£
£


At the beginning of the year
15,884,000
14,861,000

Administration costs
(181,000)
(164,000)

Interest income
300,000
191,000

Actuarial gains/losses
(5,789,000)
1,107,000

Contributions
633,000
500,000

Benefits paid
(608,000)
(611,000)

At the end of the year
10,239,000
15,884,000

Page 35

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022
 
25.Pension commitments (continued)


Composition of plan assets:


2022
2021
£
£


UK Equities
30,000
-

Overseas equities
21,000
6,137,000

Fixed Interest
2,519,000
2,806,000

Property
494,000
290,000

LDI Strategy/Hedge
(1,615,000)
2,124,000

Cash
688,000
1,394,000

Index-Linked gilts
1,998,000
-

Multi Asset
5,153,000
-

Other
951,000
3,133,000

Total plan assets
10,239,000
15,884,000

2022
2021
£
£


Fair value of plan assets
10,239,000
15,884,000

Present value of plan liabilities
(11,921,000)
(17,890,000)

Net pension scheme liability
(1,682,000)
(2,006,000)


The amounts recognised in profit or loss are as follows:

2022
2021
£
£


Administration costs
(181,000)
(164,000)

Interest on obligation
(334,000)
(241,000)

Interest income on plan assets
300,000
191,000

Total
(215,000)
(214,000)





Page 36

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022
 
25.Pension commitments (continued)


A comprehensive actuarial valuation of the company pension scheme, using the projected unit credit method, was carried out at 5 April 2019 by Barnett Waddingham LLP, independent consulting actuaries, Adjustments to the valuation at that date have been made based on the following assumptions:

2022
2021
%
%
Discount rate


4.8

1.9
 
Inflation assumption (RPI)


3.1

3.3
 
Inflation assumption (CPI)


2.7

2.7
 
Pension increases



 
Service up to 6 April 1997



 
Service from 6 April 1997 to 5 April 2006 (RPI max 5%)


3

3.2
 
Service on or after 6 April 2006 (CPI max 3%)


2.10

2.2
 
GMP benefits accrued after 5 April 1988 (CPI max 3%)


2.1

2.2
 
Life expectancy at age 65 of male aged 45 (years)


22.2

22.3
 
Life expectancy at age 65 of male aged 65 (years)


20.9

20.9
 
Life expectancy at age 65 of female aged 45 (years)


24.8

24.7
 
Life expectancy at age 65 of female aged 65 (years)


23.4

23.2
 
Post retirement mortality assumption



115% of S3PA tables with CMI 2018 projections and a long term rate of improvement of 1.25% p.a.
 
Commutation



75% of members take the maximum cash
 





Page 37

 
FURROWS LIMITED
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

26.


Related party transactions

The Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Furrows Holdings Limited, and it has taken advantage of the exemption contained in FRS102 not to disclose transactions or balances with other wholly owned subsidiaries which form part of the group. The financial statements of Furrows Holdings Limited, the ultimate parent company of the group, can be obtained from Companies House.


27.


Controlling party

The ultimate parent company is Furrows Holdings Limited, a company registered in England and Wales. Furrows Holdings Limited prepares consolidated financial statements for the smallest and largest group of which Furrows Limited is a member, and are publicly available from Companies House.
There is no ultimate controlling party of the Company.

 
Page 38