TIDMQUIZ
RNS Number : 6424V
Quiz PLC
05 December 2023
5 December 2023
QUIZ plc
("QUIZ" or the "Group")
Interim Results
for the six months ended 30 September 2023
Inflationary pressures impact consumer demand and revenue across
channels; gross margin maintained; firm focus on returning to
profitability and maintaining cash position
Review of strategic options led by Non-Executive Chairman Peter
Cowgill to evaluate options to maximise shareholder value
QUIZ , the omni-channel fashion brand, announces its unaudited
interim results for the six months ended 30 September 2023 ("H1
2024" or the "Period").
Highlights:
Six months to Six months to
30 September 2023 30 September 2022
(unaudited) (unaudited)
--------------------------- ------------------- -------------------
Group revenue GBP42.3m GBP49.4m
EBITDA GBP1.1m GBP3.7m
(Loss)/profit before tax -GBP1.5m GBP1.8m
(Loss)/earnings per share -0.96p 1.19p
Operating cash flows GBP2.1m GBP6.5m
Cash net of borrowings GBP3.6m GBP9.2m
--------------------------- ------------------- -------------------
-- Group revenues decreased 14% to GBP42.3m (H1 2023: GBP49.4m)
reflecting challenging prior year comparatives as well as
inflationary pressures impacting consumer demand
O UK store and concession revenues decreased 11% to GBP22.0m
(H1 2023: GBP24.6m)
O Online revenues decreased 22% to GBP12.6m (H1 2023: GBP16.1m)
O International revenues(1) decreased 11% to GBP7.7m (H1
2023: GBP8.7m)
-- Gross margin maintained at 61.8% (H1 2023: 61.6%), reflecting
continued focus on full-price sell-through
-- Opened three stores, relocated two and closed two in the
Period, taking the total store estate to 64 stores in the
UK and five in the Republic of Ireland at the end of the
Period
-- Marketing spend as a proportion of Group sales remained
broadly in line with the prior year at 3.3% (H1 2023: 3.1%)
-- Operating costs, being administrative and distribution costs,
excluding depreciation and amortisation charges decreased
by 7%
-- EBITDA decreased to GBP1.1 million (H1 2023: GBP3.7 million)
-- Operating cash flows of GBP2.1 million (H1 2023: GBP6.5
million)
-- Capital expenditure of GBP3.4 million (H1 2023: GBP0.7 million),
which funded the expansion of distribution centre capacity
and new store openings / relocations
-- Total liquidity headroom at 30 September 2023 of GBP7.6
million with included cash net of borrowings of GBP3.6 million
(31 March 2023: GBP8.3 million which includes cash net of
borrowings of GBP6.2 million)
Outlook and current trading:
-- The widely reported cost of living and inflationary pressures
have impacted customer demand during the financial year.
As a result, the near-term outlook is difficult to predict
for many UK retailers including QUIZ.
-- Sales for the two months to 30 November 2023, including
the Black Friday sales period, totalled GBP14.1 million
(2023: GBP16.0 million), behind management expectations.
-- Notwithstanding that the remainder of QUIZ's important Christmas
trading and January sales periods are still to come, given
the shortfall in demand experienced in recent months and
the potential for macro pressures continuing to impact consumer
demand, the Board anticipates that full year revenues will
be approximately 6-8% lower than current market expectations(2)
.
-- Total liquidity headroom at 4 December 2023 was GBP4.9 million
which includes cash net of borrowings of GBP0.9 million.
Review of Strategic Options:
-- The Board remains confident that QUIZ's brand is differentiated,
and the Group's omni-channel business model remains relevant.
However, given the Group's recent trading performance, the
Board has decided to immediately initiate a thorough review
of the strategic options available to the Group to maximise
shareholder value. This process is being led by the Company's
independent Chairman, Peter Cowgill, supported by the Company's
retained advisor, Panmure Gordon.
-- The findings from this review are expected to be announced
in Q1 2024
Tarak Ramzan, Founder and Chief Executive Officer,
commented:
"This has been a challenging period for many retailers, and we
have not been immune to the widely publicised macro headwinds
impacting consumer demand. Notwithstanding the ongoing pressure on
consumers, we have continued to focus on taking the right decisions
for our long-term future, including prioritising protecting
full-price sales and carefully managing our store portfolio.
I remain confident that QUIZ remains a strong, distinctive brand
known for providing glamorous looks at good value prices. However,
given the prolonged period of challenging trading we believe it is
prudent to examine a range of options to maximise shareholder
value."
Notes
1. International sales comprise revenues from QUIZ standalone
stores and concessions in the Republic of Ireland and franchises in
20 countries.
2. Current market expectations is for the Group to generate
GBP86.4 million of revenues in the year ended 31 March 2024.
3. Financial information in the front of this report has been
rounded to the nearest decimal place. Totals in the tables may not
equal the arithmetic sum of presented numbers. Percentages are
calculated on non-rounded numbers and may not conform to the
percentage derived from the rounded components.
Enquiries :
QUIZ plc Via Hudson Sandler
Tarak Ramzan, Chief Executive Officer
Gerry Sweeney, Chief Financial Officer
Sheraz Ramzan, Chief Commercial Officer
Panmure Gordon (Nominated Adviser and Sole
Broker)
Emma Earl +44 (0) 207 886
Rupert Dearden 2500
+44 (0) 207 796
Hudson Sandler LLP (Public Relations) 4133
Alex Brennan quiz@hudsonsandler.com
Emily Brooker
Notes:
This announcement contains inside information for the purposes
of Article 7 of Regulation (EU) No 596/201 as it forms part of UK
domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018
("MAR").
About QUIZ
QUIZ is an omni-channel fashion brand, specialising in occasion
wear and dressy casual wear. QUIZ delivers a distinct proposition
that empowers fashion forward customers to stand out from the
crowd.
QUIZ's buying and design teams constantly develop its own
product lines, ensuring the latest glamorous looks at value prices.
This flexible supply chain, together with the winning formula of
style, quality, value and speed-to-market has enabled QUIZ to grow
into an international brand with stores, concessions, franchise
stores, wholesale partners and international online partners.
QUIZ operates through an omni-channel business model, which
encompasses online sales, standalone stores, concessions,
international franchises and wholesale arrangements.
To download images please visit:
http://www.quizgroup.co.uk/media-download-centre/
For further information:
https://www.quizclothing.co.uk/
http://www.quizgroup.co.uk/
CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S REPORT
The Group's performance in the six months to 30 September 2023
(the "Period") was impacted by the challenging prior year
comparatives and the negative impact of inflationary pressures on
consumer confidence and demand for QUIZ's products. Revenue
decreased by 14% to GBP42.3 million (H1 2023: GBP49.4 million).
The Group maintained key metrics such as conversion rates and
average transaction value but the drop in traffic, both in-store
and online, led to the decline in revenues. This supports the
Board's confidence that QUIZ's differentiated occasion wear and
dressy casual wear continues to resonate with consumers who are
able to spend.
Customer demand remained consistent for new full price product
rather than discounted options. This is reflected in a consistent
gross margin generated compared to the same period in the previous
year.
We continued to carefully appraise new store opportunities where
the rental arrangements are viable. During the Period we opened
three new stores opened in the United Kingdom and closed one in the
United Kingdom and one the Republic of Ireland. In addition, two of
our flagship stores in Lakeside and Braehead, Glasgow were
relocated during the Period. The Board continues to believe in the
longer-term strategic benefits of its omni-channel model to provide
customers with the opportunities to interact directly with the
brand including purchasing in-store, utilising in-store click and
collect, ordering in-store, or exchanging/returning to store.
Further to the decline in revenues the Group incurred a loss
before tax of GBP1.5 million (H1 2023: profit of GBP1.8 million).
In addition to targeting higher revenues the Group is looking to
return to profitability through reviewing and reducing costs where
possible.
Net cash at the Period end was GBP3.6 million. The Board is
focussed on maintaining its cash balances and is taking steps to
maximise the available headroom. These include the cost saving
measures noted above, the suspension of significant capital
expenditure, and the continued careful management of
inventories.
RESULTS OVERVIEW
Group revenue decreased 14% to GBP42.3 million in the Period (H1
2023: GBP49.4 million):
Six months Six months Share Share
to 30 September to 30 September Year-on-year of revenue of revenue
2023 2022 change H1 2023 H1 2022
UK stores and
concessions GBP22.0m GBP24.6m -10.6% 52.0% 49.8%
Online GBP12.6m GBP16.1m -21.7% 29.8% 32.6%
International GBP7.7m GBP8.7m -11.5% 18.2% 17.6%
Total GBP42.3m GBP49.4m -14.4%
Operating losses of GBP1.3 million were incurred (H1 2023:
profit of GBP1.9 million). EBITDA was GBP1.1 million (H1 2023:
GBP3.7 million) representing an EBITDA margin of 2.7% (H1 2023:
7.5%).
Loss before tax was GBP1.5 million (H1 2023: profit of GBP1.8
million). Loss per share was 0.96 pence (H1 2023: earnings per
share of 1.19 pence).
Cash net of bank borrowings at the period end was GBP3.6 million
(H1 2023: GBP9.2 million) which represents a GBP2.6 million
reduction since 31 March 2023. Net cash generated from operations
was GBP2.1 million (H1 2023: GBP6.5 million).
Capital expenditure in H1 2024 increased to GBP3.3 million (H1
2023: GBP0.7 million) further to GBP1.3 million of spend at our
distribution centre and GBP1.2 million of spend on new and
relocated stores.
OPERATIONAL REVIEW
Central to our strategy is the QUIZ brand, which is a
distinctive fashion brand that empowers fashion-forward females to
stand out from the crowd. This is complemented by our omni-channel
distribution model and focus on operational improvement to ensure
the business is positioned to succeed.
Optimising the omni-channel model
QUIZ continues to believe in the long-term benefits of operating
an omni-channel model that provides customers the opportunity to
engage with and shop the brand across different channels.
Online revenues in the Period were impacted by challenging prior
year comparatives and a decline in consumer demand as outlined
above. Given these factors online revenues reduced by 22% to
GBP12.6 million in the Period (H1 2023: GBP16.1 million).
Harnessing the long-term potential of our online channel remains
a key objective for the Group. Sales through the QUIZ website
declined to GBP8.6 million (H1 2023: GBP11.3 million) accounting
for 68% of total online sales (H1 2023: 70%) and. This primarily
reflects a decline in traffic to the site as other key metrics such
as the conversion of browsers to customers and the Average
Transaction Value generated were consistent with the previous
year.
Online sales through selected third-party websites continue to
provide the QUIZ brand with important exposure to customers with
the revenues totalling GBP4.0 million (H1 2023: GBP4.8 million).
The decline against the prior year reflects changes in the third
party partners where our product is sold.
Revenues generated through our UK stores and concessions
declined 11% to GBP22.0 million (H1 2023: GBP24.6 million)
reflecting the challenging prior year comparatives and a decline in
in-store traffic. Other key metrics including conversion rates and
Average Transaction Values remained consistent with the previous
year.
As at 30 September 2023, the Group operated 64 stores in the
United Kingdom (H1 2023: 62 stores) with three stores opening
during the Period in Southampton, Plymouth and Fareham and one in
Ayr closing during the Period. In addition, two of our flagship
stores at Lakeside and Braehead, Glasgow relocated in the
Period.
We continued to benefit from the reduced rental charges across
the store portfolio further to the restructuring undertaken in
2020. Immediately following this restructuring the average lease
length across the store estate was 24 months. A number of key store
leases were renegotiated during the Period to allow for a longer
lease period and, as a result, the average lease length increased
to 23 months (H1 2023: 18 months).
Since the Period end the Group has opened a new store in
Liverpool and commenced the relocation of its store in Grimsby. The
relocation of our Trafford Park store will be undertaken later in
the financial year. Going forward, store openings will be dependent
upon securing suitable lease arrangements with rental charges
linked to revenues generated and flexible arrangements with regards
to termination.
As at 30 September 2023, the Group operated 60 concessions in
the United Kingdom (H1 2023: 62 concessions). During the Period,
eleven concessions were closed and four opened.
Concessions continue to provide QUIZ with a flexible and
low-cost route to market given the limited expenditure required to
establish new outlets. The majority of the concessions operated are
not staffed by QUIZ personnel and require limited capital
outlay.
Selective international growth potential through capital light
model
International revenues decreased 11% in the period to GBP7.7
million (H1 2023: GBP8.7 million) as demand was impacted by similar
factors witnessed in the United Kingdom.
As at 30 September 2023, the Group operated five stores in the
Republic of Ireland and 21 concessions which generated GBP2.7
million (H1 2023: GBP3.4 million). One store closed and two
concessions opened- in the Period.
Revenues from international franchise partners in the Period
amounted to GBP5.1 million (H1 2023: GBP5.3 million). We continue
to receive positive customer reactions to the QUIZ brand in our
international franchise markets.
Our mix of casual and occasion wear can be tailored for each
market and our flexible route to market has been beneficial. We
continue to seek to identify opportunities to extend our sales
through low-risk, low-cost international expansion driven by our
capital-light online, consignment and concession routes to
market.
Managing gross margin
The gross margin generated in the Period was consistent with the
prior year. Inflationary pressures on product costs in the Period
were successfully mitigated through selective price increases.
We continue to carefully manage stock levels and dispose of
excess stock held. This has contributed to the GBP1.0 million
reduction in stock levels since March 2023. Given the progress made
in reducing inventory there has been no significant change to our
provision for slow moving stock.
Leveraging our cost base
Given the reduction in revenues we recognise the importance of
continuing to carefully manage costs. The GBP1.7 million reduction
in operating costs, excluding depreciation charges, represented a
7% decline, in overall costs.
We continue to review our cost base to eliminate costs where
possible and to ensure it is appropriate for the revenues that will
be generated going forward.
Targeted marketing investment supporting a differentiated
brand
QUIZ brand has a focused, differentiated position in the market
with a specialisation in occasion wear and dressy casual wear for
women, and the brand resonates with a broad age range of
customers.
Our marketing activity utilises a pipeline of celebrity and
influencer activity across the Period. The launch of our recent
Party Wear Collection in collaboration with Olivia Bowen since the
Period end has helped generate increased traffic ahead of the
important Christmas party season. These activities continue to be
supplemented with returns-driven digital marketing and offline
investment to push the QUIZ brand to the forefront of our
customers' minds.
The Group maintained its disciplined approach to marketing and,
as a result, spend as a proportion of Group sales remained broadly
in line with the prior year at 3.3% (H1 2023: 3.1%).
Further to the decline in traffic and revenues the number of
online active customers in the year to 30 September 2023 reduced to
533,000, a drop of 11% on the numbers recorded at 31 March
2023.
During the Period, the brand has maintained its social media
engagement relative to the prior year, with 2% and 1% increases in
our Instagram and Facebook audiences respectively.
Flexible Supply Chain
The business has a well invested infrastructure and a proven
successful supply chain which prioritises our commitment to source
clothes in a responsible and ethical way. This supply chain enables
the business to respond to customer demands and to provide on-trend
products whether it be influenced by social media, the catwalk or
television.
During the Period work to expand the capacity at our
Distribution Centre at a cost of GBP1.3 million was completed. This
work provides a new mezzanine level which increases storage space
and allows for an improved layout to accommodate more efficient
working practices.
The Group has an ongoing programme to ensure that all our
products are supplied in line with our Ethical Code of Practice. We
continue to visit our suppliers regularly and have processes in
place to allow for clear visibility across our supply chain. We
remain committed to ensuring our systems and processes are fit for
purpose and assure compliance in this area.
CASH POSITION
The Group is focussed on maintaining an appropriate level of
available liquidity and its net cash position. The cash balance net
of borrowings was GBP3.6 million (31 March 2023: GBP6.2 million) at
the Period end. Total liquidity headroom at the Period end amounted
to GBP7.6 million, which includes GBP3.6 million of cash net of
borrowings (31 March 2023: GBP8.3 million which includes GBP6.2
million of cash net of borrowings).
The Group retains GBP4.0 million of bank and credit facilities
available to it from HSBC which expire in June 2024. There are no
financial covenants applicable to these facilities.
As at 4 December 2023, the Group had total liquidity headroom of
GBP4.9 million which includes a cash balance net of borrowings of
GBP0.9 million.
OUTLOOK AND CURRENT TRADING
Customer demand in recent weeks , including through the Black
Friday sales period, has continued to be weaker than the previous
year. Cumulatively sales for the two months to 30 November 2023
were lower than both the prior year and management expectations.
The revenues generated are summarised below:
I October I October
to 30 November to 30 November Year-on-year
2023 2022 change
UK stores and concessions GBP6.9m GBP7.3m -5.5%
Online GBP5.2m GBP6.5m -20.0 %
International GBP2.1m GBP2.2m -4.5%
Total GBP14.2m GBP16.0m -11.2%
Revenues across all channels were notably short of expectations
in October. Whilst the shortfall in revenues moderated in November
they remained behind expectations.
Sales in the Black Friday period in our UK stores were
marginally below the previous year on a like-for-like basis. There
was a sharper drop in online revenues through the QUIZ website
which represents a disappointing shortfall across this important
trading period.
Notwithstanding that the remainder of QUIZ's important Christmas
trading and January sales periods are still to come, given the
shortfall in demand experienced in recent months and the potential
for pressures on consumer demand to continue impacting across the
sector, the Board currently anticipates that full year revenues
will be approximately 6-8% lower than current market expectations.
As a Result, the Board anticipates reporting a loss before taxation
for the year materially larger than previous expectations.
Longer term, the Board remains confident that underpinned by the
strength and distinctiveness of the QUIZ brand and the relevance of
the Group's omni-channel business model, QUIZ can deliver
long-term, sustainable and profitable growth for all
stakeholders.
REVIEW OF STRATEGIC OPTIONS
Given the Group's recent trading performance, the Board is
initiating a thorough review of the strategic options available to
the Group. This comprehensive process will begin immediately and
will evaluate a broad range of options to maximise shareholder
value. We expect to report findings from this review in Q1
2024.
The Review will be led by the Company's independent Chairman,
Peter Cowgill, supported by the Company's retained advisor, Panmure
Gordon.
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Gross margin
Whilst overall demand has been lower year-on-year there
continued to be a consumer preference for new full price items. We
continued to encounter increased cost pressures in relation to
product compared to the previous year. We have successfully
adjusted prices to maintain our gross margin whilst broadening the
range of prices offered to customers, so they have a wide range of
options suitable for their budgets. Due to these factors, the gross
margin in the Period was consistent with the previous year at 61.8%
(H1 2023: 61.6%).
Operating costs
Consistent with the decline in revenues generated there have
been reductions in operating costs, namely administrative and
distribution costs.
Compared to the previous year there has been a GBP1.7 million
reduction in operating costs, excluding depreciation and
amortisation costs. Total operating costs were reduced by GBP1.2
million to GBP27.4 million (H1 2023: GBP28.6 million).
Administrative costs of GBP22.0 million were consistent year on
year (H1 2023: GBP22.0 million).
Consistent with many other retailers the business has been
impacted by higher operational costs as inflationary pressures
impact:
-- Payroll costs in the Period increased further to uplifts in
the National Living Wage and other associated changes from April
2023. This increased employee costs by circa GBP0.8 million per
annum. Further to the recently announced changes to the National
Living Wage a similar increase in costs will apply from April
2024.
-- Utility contracts, which had been fixed for two years
previously, took affect from August 2023 which has resulted in an
increase of GBP0.6 million in costs per annum.
Property costs (including depreciation charges in relation to
leases for standalone stores) decreased by 4% to GBP4.7 million (H1
2023: GBP4.9 million). The Group benefited from a reduction in
business rates further to their re-evaluation in March 2023 and
rental costs declining as the lower revenues generated were
reflected in the revenue based rental charges across the store
estate. These reductions were partially offset by the property
costs associated with the new stores opened and from increased
costs arising from revised rental arrangements in certain
locations.
Marketing costs were consistent at GBP1.4 million (H1 2023:
GBP1.4 million) . The focus of the investment undertaken in the
Period continued to be on digital marketing where a clear Return on
Investment can be demonstrated. These activities are also
complemented by marketing spend to drive broader awareness of the
QUIZ brand.
Distribution costs declined 16% to GBP5.5 million (H1 2023:
GBP6.6 million) reflecting the impact of lower revenues generated
in the period. The majority of this decline related to commission
payments which were lower given the decline in sales made through
third party websites, international franchises and concessions.
Also reflected in the drop in distribution costs are lower carriage
costs to stores, concessions and franchises further to the reduced
activity in the Period.
Finance costs
The finance costs of GBP0.3 million (H1 2023: GBP0.1 million)
primarily relate to interest costs arising on the lease liabilities
for stores.
Foreign currency hedging
The Group currently undertakes foreign exchange
transactions.
The primary inflow of foreign exchange relates to the Euro
denominated revenues generated in Ireland. The primary outflow of
foreign exchange relates to the purchase of stock, primarily in
Chinese Renminbi.
The Group manages the risk associated with foreign currency
fluctuations using forward contracts for the sale or the purchase
of the respective currency for a period of up to 12 months in
advance. We have currently hedged our expected currency inflows and
outflows for the remainder of the financial year.
Taxation
The reported tax rate in the current year is a credit of 20.1%
(H1 2023: charge of 19.5%).
As at 30 September 2023 the deferred tax asset amounted to
GBP1.0 million (31 March 2023: GBP1.0 million). This balance
reflects the anticipated future cash benefit expected to be derived
from utilising previously generated tax losses and the utilisation
of the available capital allowances which are greater than the
recorded net book value.
Earnings/loss per share
The loss per share for H1 2024 was 0.96 pence (H1 2023: earnings
per share of 1.19 pence).
Dividends
The Board does not recommend the payment of a dividend in
respect of this Period. No dividends were paid in the prior
financial year.
Cash flow and cash position
Cash, net of bank borrowings, at the Period end amounted to
GBP3.6 million (H1 2023: GBP9.2 million), a decline of GBP2.6
million since 31 March 2023.
The EBITDA of GBP1.1 million generated in the Period was a
GBP2.6 million decline on H1 2023. The positive cash flow was
complemented by a GBP1.0 million cash inflow from working capital
movements (H1 2023: GBP2.6 million) which reflects the GBP1.0
million reduction in inventories since 31 March 2023.
Capital expenditure amounted to GBP3.4 million (H1 2023: GBP0.7
million) in the Period. Included in this spend was a GBP1.3 million
expenditure related to the expansion of capacity at our
Distribution Centre.
Also included in capital expenditure was investment of GBP1.2
million in year, arising from the three new store openings and two
store relocations completed during the Period.
The cash outflows from financing activities amounted to GBP2.5
million (H1 2023: GBP2.4 million) and related to the repayment of
GBP1.2 million of bank borrowings and the payment of lease
liabilities amounting to GBP1.3 million.
At 4 December 2023, total liquidity headroom amounted to GBP4.9
million which included cash net of borrowings amounting to GBP0.9
million. There are no financial covenants associated with the
Group's bank facilities.
QUIZ plc
Unaudited consolidated statement
of comprehensive income
For the six months ended 30 September
2023
Unaudited Unaudited
six months six months Audited
ended 30 ended 30 year ended
September September 31 March
2023 2022 2023
Notes GBP000 GBP000 GBP000
Continuing operations
Revenue 3 42,295 49,410 91,680
Cost of sales (16,148) (18,956) (35,166)
----------- ----------- ------------
Gross profit 26,147 30,454 56,514
Administrative costs (21,925) (22,026) (41,728)
Distribution costs (5,521) (6,581) (12,544)
Other operating income 9 53 214
----------- ----------- ------------
Total operating costs (27,437) (28,554) (54,058)
Operating (loss)/profit 4 (1,290) 1,900 2,456
Finance income 79 12 89
Finance costs (282) (77) (248)
(Loss)/profit before income tax (1,493) 1,835 2,297
Income tax credit/(charge) 5 300 (358) (260)
(Loss)/profit for the period (1,193) 1,477 2,037
Other comprehensive (expense)/income
Foreign currency translation differences
- foreign operations (27) 156 138
(Loss)/profit and total comprehensive
(expense)/ income for the period (1,220) 1,633 2,175
=========== =========== ============
(Loss)/earnings per share 7 (0.96)p 1.19p 1.64p
=========== =========== ============
All of the above income is attributable to the shareholders of
the Company.
QUIZ PLC
Unaudited consolidated statement of financial position
As at 30 September 2023
Unaudited Unaudited
as at 30 as at 30 Audited
September September as at 31
2023 2022 March 2023
Notes GBP000 GBP000 GBP000
Assets
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment 8 6,832 3,997 4,688
Right-of-use assets 9 6,790 5,069 6,523
Intangible assets 10 2,801 2,624 2,703
Deferred tax assets 1,041 600 957
Total non-current assets 17,464 12,290 14,871
---------- ---------- ------------
Current assets
Inventories 11,334 11,122 12,322
Trade and other receivables 11 7,253 6,351 7,429
Cash and cash equivalents 13 3,850 9,210 7,575
Total current assets 22,437 26,683 27,326
Total assets 39,901 38,973 42,197
Liabilities
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables 12 (12,435) (13,136) (12,602)
Loans and borrowings (258) - (1,410)
Lease liabilities (2,384) (1,839) (1,909)
Derivative financial liabilities (43) (300) (65)
Corporation tax payable (95) - (291)
Total current liabilities (15,215) (15,275) (16,277)
Non-current liabilities
Lease liabilities (4,951) (3,320) (4,967)
Deferred tax liabilities - (14) (20)
Total non-current liabilities (4,951) (3,334) (4,987)
---------- ---------- ------------
Total liabilities (20,166) (18,609) (21,264)
Net assets 19,735 20,364 20,933
========== ========== ============
Equity
Called up share capital 373 373 373
Share premium 10,315 10,315 10,315
Merger reserve 1,130 1,130 1,130
Retained earnings 7,917 8,546 9,115
Total equity 19,735 20,364 20,933
========== ========== ============
QUIZ PLC
Unaudited consolidated statement of changes in equity
For the six months ended 30 September 2023
Unaudited Unaudited
as at 30 as at 30 Audited
September September as at 31
2023 2022 March 2023
GBP000 GBP000 GBP000
Share capital
Balance at beginning and end of
period 373 373 373
Share premium
Balance at beginning and end of
period 10,315 10,315 10,315
Merger reserve
Balance at beginning and end of
the period 1,130 1,130 1,130
Retained earnings
Balance at beginning of period 9,115 6,885 6,885
Total comprehensive (expense)/income (1,220) 1,633 2,175
Share based payments 22 28 55
Balance at end of period 7,917 8,546 9,115
---------- ---------- ------------
Total equity at beginning of
period 20,933 18,703 18,703
========== ========== ============
Total equity at end of period 19,735 20,364 20,933
========== ========== ============
QUIZ PLC
Unaudited consolidated statement of changes of cash flows
For the six months ended 30 September 2023
Unaudited Unaudited
six months six months Audited
ended 30 ended 30 year ended
September September 31 March
2023 2022 2023
GBP000 GBP000 GBP000
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash generated by operations
(Loss)/profit for the period (1,193) 1,477 2,037
Adjusted for:
Depreciation of property, plant
and equipment 845 606 1,263
Depreciation of right-of-use asset 1,282 943 1,898
Amortisation of intangible assets 293 284 589
Share based payment charges 22 28 55
Exchange movement (31) 153 126
Finance income (79) (12) (89)
Finance cost expense 282 77 248
Income tax (credit)/charge (300) 358 260
Decrease/(increase) in inventories 988 588 (612)
Decrease/(increase) in receivables 176 74 (1,384)
(Decrease)/increase in payables (189) 1,905 1,136
Net cash from operating activities 2,096 6,481 5,527
Interest paid (34) (28) (18)
Income taxes paid - - 417
Net cash inflow from operating
activities 2,062 6,453 5,926
----------- ----------- ------------
Cash flow from investing activities
Payments to acquire intangible
assets (391) (126) (510)
Payments to acquire property, plant
and equipment (2,989) (618) (1,965)
Interest received 79 12 89
Net cash outflow from investing
activities (3,301) (732) (2,386)
----------- ----------- ------------
Cash flows from financing activities
Loans repaid (1,152) (1,420) (10)
Payment of lease liabilities (1,338) (935) (1,807)
Net cash outflow from financing
activities (2,490) (2,355) (1,817)
----------- ----------- ------------
Net (decrease)/increase in cash
and cash equivalents (3,729) 3,366 1,723
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning
of period 7,575 5,840 5,840
Effect of foreign exchange rates 4 4 12
Cash and cash equivalents at end
of period 13 3,850 9,210 7,575
=========== =========== ============
Basis of Preparation
1.1 General Information
QUIZ plc is a public limited company incorporated and registered
in Jersey and listed on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) of
the London Stock Exchange. Its registered office is: 22 Grenville
Street, St Helier, Jersey, Channel Islands, JE4 8PX.
1.2 Basis of Preparation
These interim financial statements for the six months to 30
September 2023 have been prepared in accordance with "IAS 34
Interim Financial Reporting" as adopted by the European Union and
the requirements of the Disclosures and Transparency Rules. T hey
are unaudited and do not include all of the information required
for full annual financial statements and do not constitute
statutory accounts within the meaning of Companies (Jersey) Law
1991 .
The comparative figures for the year ended 31 March 2023 are not
the Group's statutory accounts for that financial year. The interim
financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Group's
Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2023, which
were prepared and approved by the directors in accordance with
International Accounting Standards in conformity with the
requirements of the Companies Act 2006 and the Companies (Jersey)
Law 1991. The auditors' report on those accounts was unqualified
and did not include reference to any matters on which the auditors
were required to report by exception under Companies (Jersey) Law
1991. The Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended
31 March 2023 has been filed with the Jersey Companies Registry and
are available on www.quizgroup.co.uk
The Group's business activities together with the factors that
are likely to affect its future developments, performance and
position are set out in the Business and Financial Reviews of its
Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March
2023. The Financial Review describes the Group's financial
position, cash flows and bank facilities. The interim financial
statements are unaudited and were approved by the board of
directors on 4 December 2023.
The interim financial statements have been prepared by the
directors of the Company (the "Directors") under the historical
cost convention except for certain financial instruments and share
based payment liabilities which are measure at fair value.
1.3 Accounting Standards1282
The accounting policies applied in these interim financial
statements are the same as those set out in the Group's Annual
Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2023.
The Group has not early adopted any standard, interpretation or
amendment that has been issued but is not effective.
There are several standards and interpretations issued by the
IASB that are effective for financial statements after this
reporting period. Of these new standards, amendments and
interpretations, there are none which are expected to have a
material impact on the Group's consolidated financial
statements.
1.4 Use of Estimates and Judgements
In the application of the Group's accounting policies, the
Directors are required to make judgements, estimates and
assumptions about the carrying value 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 year in which the estimate is revised where the revision
affects only that year, or in the year of the revision and future
years where the revision affects both current and future years.
Information about such estimations and judgements are contained
in individual accounting policies. The 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 are:
Inventory provision
Provision is made for those items of inventory where the net
realisable value is estimated to be lower than cost. Net realisable
value is based on both historical experience and assumptions
regarding future selling prices and is consequently a source of
estimation uncertainty.
The provision for aged inventory is calculated by providing for
50% of inventory that is more than three seasons old and providing
for 100% of inventory that is more than three years old. Given the
potential for demand to be impacted going forward the Group has
provided up to 10% of the remaining inventory. Given this approach
the provision for aged inventory totalled GBP1,570,000 at 31 March
2023 (31 March 2023: GBP1,675,000).
Returns provision
The accounting estimate related to the return of stocks sold
online is susceptible to changes from period to period. The value
of expected returns of GBP518,000 (31 March 2023: GBP638,000) is
estimated using recent past experience and a review of returns
received post year end. The provision reflecting the impact of
these anticipated returns on the income statement is included in
the other payables balance.
1.5 Going concern
In determining whether the Group's accounts can be prepared on a
going concern basis, the Directors considered the Group's business
activities and cash requirements together with factors likely to
affect its performance and financial position. The directors have
prepared trading and cash flow forecasts covering a period of one
year from the date of approval of these interim financial
statements.
The key judgements in relation to the going concern assessment
are in respect of the potential impact of the recent cost of living
increases on the Group and the impact on consumer demand in the
markets in which the Group operates. When making these judgements,
the Directors considered the current trading levels and the outlook
for the Group against their detailed base case scenario and further
downside scenarios.
The Group has GBP4.0 million of banking facilities, which expire
on 30 June 2024. These facilities comprise a GBP2.0 million
overdraft and GBP2.0 million working capital facility. There are no
financial covenants associated with these facilities, which are
reviewed annually. Whilst the facilities are repayable on demand
the Directors believe that these facilities will be available to
the Group through to 30 June 2024 and will be renewed in due
course.
The base case and downside scenario forecasts indicate the Group
will remain within its available borrowing facilities through the
forthcoming twelve-month period. Further actions could be
undertaken to mitigate against any shortfalls arising from these
scenarios. These include reducing operating costs and capital
expenditure, and optimising working capital
Based on the assessment undertaken, the directors have a
reasonable expectation that the Group has access to adequate
resources to enable it to continue to operate as a going concern
for the foreseeable future, being a period of twelve months from
the date interim financial statements were approved, being 4
December 2023. Accordingly, the directors consider it appropriate
to continue to adopt a going concern basis of accounting in
preparing the interim financial statements of the Group.
2. Principal risks and uncertainties
The board considers the principal risks and uncertainties which
could impact the group over the remaining six months of the
financial year to 31 March 2024 to be unchanged from those set out
on in the Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended
31 March 2023 which related to the following matters :
-- Global or Regional Pandemics
-- Brand and Reputational Risk
-- Development of Overseas Markets
-- Fashion and Design
-- Challenging Economic Environment
-- Competitor Actions
-- Product Sourcing;
-- Loss of Key Trading Partner
-- Physical Infrastructure
-- IT Infrastructure and Cyber Security
-- Infrastructure for E-commerce Sales
-- People
-- Loss of Key Staff
-- Regulatory and Legal Framework
-- Foreign Exchange
Further information on the nature of these risks, their
potential impact and the existing mitigating factors to address
them is detailed on pages 14 to 17 of the Annual report and
Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2023
3. Revenue
An analysis of revenue by source and geographical destination is
as follows:
Unaudited Unaudited
six months six months Audited
ended 30 ended 30 year ended
September September 31 March
2023 2022 2023
GBP000 GBP000 GBP000
Online 12,555 16,121 29,872
International 7,736 8,691 16,357
UK stores and concessions 22,004 24,598 45,451
----------- ----------- ------------
42,295 49,410 91,680
=========== =========== ============
United Kingdom 33,879 40,574 75,077
Overseas 8,416 8,836 16,603
42,295 49,410 91,680
=========== =========== ============
4. Operating (loss)/profit
Operating (loss)/profit is stated after
charging/(crediting):
Unaudited Unaudited
six months six months Audited
ended 30 ended 30 year ended
September September 31 March
2023 2022 2023
GBP000 GBP000 GBP000
Cost of inventories recognised
as an expense 16,148 18,956 35,166
Distribution costs 5,521 6,581 12,544
Employment costs 10,879 10,064 19,236
Depreciation 2,127 1,549 3,161
Amortisation 293 284 589
Short-term lease payments 1,048 1,404 2,257
Other operating income (9) (53) (214)
Other expenses 7,578 8,725 16,485
43,585 47,510 89,224
=========== =========== ============
Employment costs reflect the costs incurred on those employees
directly employed by the Group and agency costs.
5. Income Tax Expense
The Group's effective tax rate in respect of continuing
operations for the six months ended 30 September 2023 is a credit
of 20.1% (six months ended 30 September 2022 - charge of 19.5% and
year ended 31 March 2023: charge of 11.3%).
6. Dividends
No dividend was paid in the current or previous periods.
7. Earnings per share
Unaudited Unaudited
six months six months Unaudited
ended 30 ended 30 year ended
September September 31 March
2023 2022 2023
Weighted number of ordinary shares
outstanding 124,230,905 124,230,905 124,230,905
Earnings: (loss)/profit (GBP000) (1,193) 1,477 2,037
(Loss)/earnings per share (pence) (0.96) 1.19 1.64
Given the share price during the period there is no dilutive
effect from the share options outstanding.
8. Property, Plant and Equipment
Fixtures,
Leasehold Motor vehicles Computer fittings
property equipment and equipment Total
GBP000 GBP000 GBP000 GBP000 GBP000
Cost
At 1 April 2023 792 137 1,698 15,822 18,449
Additions 87 - 425 2,477 2,989
Disposals (7) - (11) (417) (435)
----------- ---------------- ---------- -------------- -------
At 30 September 2023 872 137 2,112 17,882 21,003
----------- ---------------- ---------- -------------- -------
Depreciation
At 1 April 2023 573 99 1,150 11,939 13,761
Charge 81 8 126 630 845
Disposals (7) - (11) (417) (435)
----------- ---------------- ---------- -------------- -------
At 30 September 2023 647 107 1,265 12,152 14,171
----------- ---------------- ---------- -------------- -------
Net book value
At 30 September 2023 225 30 847 5,730 6,832
=========== ================ ========== ============== =======
At 31 March 2023 219 38 548 3,883 4,688
=========== ================ ========== ============== =======
9. Right-of-Use Assets
Property
GBP000
Cost
At 1 April 2023 8,888
Additions 1,549
Disposals (928)
-----------
At 30 September 2023 9,509
-----------
Depreciation
At 1 April 2023 2,365
Charge 1,282
Disposals (928)
-----------
At 30 September 2023 2,719
-----------
Net book value
At 30 September 2023 6,790
===========
At 31 March 2023 6,523
===========
The Group presents lease liabilities separately within the
statement of financial position. The movement in the period
comprised:
GBP000
Cost
At 1 April 2023 6,876
New leases entered into 1,549
Interest expense related to lease
liabilities 248
Repayment of lease liabilities (including
interest) (1,338)
-------
At 30 September 2023 7,335
=======
Current lease liabilities 2,383
Non-current lease liabilities 4,951
=======
10. Intangibles
Computer
Goodwill software Trademarks Total
GBP000 GBP000 GBP000 GBP000
Cost
At 1 April 2023 6,175 4,337 165 10,677
Additions - 391 - 391
At 30 September
2023 6,175 4,728 165 11,068
---------- --------- ---------- ---------
Depreciation
At 1 April 2023 5,248 2,632 94 7,974
Amortisation - 285 8 293
At 30 September
2023 5,248 2,917 102 8,267
---------- --------- ---------- ---------
Net book value
At 30 September
2023 927 1,811 63 2,801
========== ========= ========== =========
At 31 March 2023 927 1,705 71 2,703
========== ========= ========== =========
11. Trade and other receivables
Unaudited Unaudited
as at 30 as at 30 Audited as
September September at 31 March
2023 2022 2023
GBP000 GBP000 GBP000
Trade receivables - gross 3,144 3,069 3,292
Allowance for doubtful debts (283) (447) (333)
---------- ---------- -------------
Trade receivables - net 2,861 2,622 2,959
Other receivables 533 574 2,113
Current tax receivable - 380 -
Prepayments and accrued income 3,859 2,775 2,357
7,253 6,351 7,429
========== ========== =============
12. Trade and other payables
Unaudited Unaudited
as at 30 as at 30 Audited as
September September at 31 March
2023 2022 2023
GBP000 GBP000 GBP000
Trade payables 8,442 5,728 7,116
Other taxes and social security
costs 377 1,642 1,610
Accruals 2,418 3,990 2,585
Other payables 1,198 1,768 1,291
Amounts due to related parties - 8 -
12,435 13,136 12,602
========== ========== =============
13. Cash and cash equivalents
Unaudited Unaudited
as at 30 as at 30 Audited as
September September at 31 March
2023 2022 2023
GBP000 GBP000 GBP000
Cash at bank and in hand 3,850 9,210 7,575
========== ========== =============
14. Financial Instruments
The following table shows the carrying amounts and fair values
of financial assets and liabilities. All financial liabilities are
measured at amortised cost.
Unaudited Unaudited
as at 30 as at 30 Audited as
September September at 31 March
2023 2022 2023
GBP000 GBP000 GBP000
Carrying value of financial
assets:
Cash and cash equivalents 3,850 9,210 7,575
Trade and other receivables 3,394 3,576 5,072
Total financial assets 7,244 12,786 12,647
========== ========== =============
Carrying value of financial
liabilities:
Trade and other payable (9,640) (7,504) (10,992)
Bank and other borrowings (258) - (1,410)
Derivative financial instruments (43) (300) (65)
Lease liabilities (7,334) (5,159) (6,876)
Total financial liabilities (17,275) (12,963) (19,343)
========== ========== =============
The cash and cash equivalents are held with bank and financial
institution counterparties, which are rated P-1 and A-1, based on
Moody's ratings.
This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the
London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct
Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United
Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution
of this information may apply. For further information, please
contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.
RNS may use your IP address to confirm compliance with the terms
and conditions, to analyse how you engage with the information
contained in this communication, and to share such analysis on an
anonymised basis with others as part of our commercial services.
For further information about how RNS and the London Stock Exchange
use the personal data you provide us, please see our Privacy
Policy.
END
IR FSEEELEDSEEE
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
December 05, 2023 02:00 ET (07:00 GMT)
Grafico Azioni Quiz (LSE:QUIZ)
Storico
Da Mar 2024 a Apr 2024
Grafico Azioni Quiz (LSE:QUIZ)
Storico
Da Apr 2023 a Apr 2024
