TIDMRLE

RNS Number : 4370N

Real Estate Investors PLC

25 September 2023

Real Estate Investors Plc

("REI" the "Company" or the "Group")

Half Year Results

For the six months ended 30 June 2023

ROBUST OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE, CONTINUED SALES & DEBT REDUCTION

Real Estate Investors Plc (AIM: RLE), the UK's only Midlands-focused Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) with a portfolio of commercial property across all sectors, is pleased to report its unaudited half year results for the six-month period ended 30 June 2023 ("H1 2023").

FINANCIAL

-- Disposals of GBP3.6 million, plus post-period disposals of GBP6.8 million - total disposals year to date of GBP10.4 million at an aggregate uplift of 8.7%, (pre-costs) to 31 December 2022 year end (FY 2022) book value (comprising of 18 retail units and a drive-thru pod development)

   --      Disposal proceeds used to pay down GBP8.4 million of debt year to date 2023 

-- Further pipeline of sales are in solicitors' hands to generate receipts in order to reduce portfolio debt and execute stated strategy

   --      Underlying profit before tax* of GBP2.2 million (H1 2022: GBP2.9 million) due to sales 

-- Loss before tax of GBP779,000 (H1 2022: GBP8.3 million profit) includes GBP4.1 million loss on property revaluations (non-cash item) representing a 2.4% portfolio valuation decline (H1 2022: GBP3.1 million gain), GBP737,000 profit on sale of investment property (H1 2022: GBP1 million profit) and GBP388,000 surplus on hedge valuation (H1 2022: GBP1.2 million surplus)

   --      EPRA** Net Tangible Assets ("NTA") per share of 60.3p (FY 2022: 62.2p) 

-- Revenue of GBP6.1 million (H1 2022: GBP7.2 million) reduction due to H2 2022 and H1 2023 sales

   --      EPRA** EPS of 1.26p (H1 2022: 1.64p) 

-- The Company will make a fully covered quarterly dividend payment of 0.625p per share in respect of Q2 2023 (Q2 2022: 0.8125p per share)

   --      GBP48.5 million total declared/paid to shareholders since dividend policy commenced in 2012 

OPERATIONAL

   --      Strong rent collection for H1 2023 of 99.93% (H1 2022: 99.36%) 

-- GBP169.2 million gross portfolio valuation (after asset disposals) (FY 2022: GBP175.4 million)

-- On a like for like basis the portfolio valuation has reduced by 2.4% on 31 December 2022 valuation to GBP166.8 million

   --      Completed 46 lease events, with new lettings generating GBP385,438 p.a. of new income 
   --      WAULT*** of 4.81 years to break/5.99 years to expiry (FY 2022: 4.98 years /6.29 years) 

-- Contracted rental income of GBP12.5 million p.a. as at 30 June 2023 (H1 2022: GBP14 million p.a. / FY 2022: GBP12.6 million p.a.) due to portfolio disposals

   --      Occupancy levels marginally higher at 85.04% (FY 2022: 84.54%) 

BANKING & DEBT RELATED

   --      Disposal proceeds used to pay down GBP8.4 million of debt in 2023 year to date 

-- Total drawn debt of GBP67.9 million (H1 2022: GBP75.5 million), post period reduced to GBP63 million

   --      Company's debt is 100% fixed, with a blended debt profile term of 18 months 
   --      Refinancing negotiations with our bankers commenced in early H2 2023 

-- Loan to Value (net of cash) of 35.9% (FY 2022: 36.8%) (management revised target LTV net of cash to 35% or below, previously 40% or below)

-- GBP8 million cash at bank - the Company is maximising returns on cash reserves, with monies on deposit now earning 4.5% on instant access

   --      Average cost of debt maintained at 3.7% (FY 2022: 3.7%) 
   --      Hedge facility has improved by GBP388,000 for half year to 30 June 2023 

PAUL BASSI, CHIEF EXECUTIVE, COMMENTED:

"Throughout 2023 investment and sales activity has been at its lowest level since the 2008 financial crisis, with corporate and institutional investors remaining dormant. With a lack of available assets for purchase and against the backdrop of an inactive investment marketplace, the diverse nature of our portfolio has allowed us to break-up and sell individual units, taking advantage of the ongoing demand for smaller lot sizes from private investors and owner occupiers. We will continue with this approach until we see a normalised market. Since the start of 2021, we have operated a successful sales programme, with sales totalling GBP48.9 million and GBP38.3 million of debt repaid, with further pipeline sales in legals.

We are confident that normalised market conditions will return once the trajectory of interest rates settles, allowing us to sell further assets where asset management initiatives have been completed. It is our intention to accelerate our sales programme and we will consider the sale of assets either on an individual or collective basis, on terms that represent value for shareholders.

Subject to market conditions and our sales rate, the Company intends to repay bank debt and, in due course, consider a share buyback or other form of capital return. Management remains open to evaluating any corporate transaction that is in the best interests of shareholders and in the meantime, we will continue to pay a fully covered dividend."

FINANCIAL & OPERATIONAL RESULTS

 
                                  30 June 2023     30 June 2022 
Revenue                         GBP6.1 million   GBP7.2 million 
                              ----------------  --------------- 
Underlying profit before        GBP2.2 million   GBP2.9 million 
 tax* 
                              ----------------  --------------- 
Contracted rental income       GBP12.5 million  GBP14.0 million 
                              ----------------  --------------- 
EPRA EPS**                               1.26p            1.64p 
                              ----------------  --------------- 
Pre-tax (loss)/profit         (GBP0.8 million)   GBP8.3 million 
                              ----------------  --------------- 
Dividend per share                       1.25p           1.625p 
                              ----------------  --------------- 
Average cost of debt                      3.7%             3.5% 
                              ----------------  --------------- 
Like for like rental income    GBP12.5 million  GBP12.4 million 
                              ----------------  --------------- 
 
 
                              30 June 2023  31 December 2022 
Gross property assets     GBP169.2 million  GBP175.4 million 
                          ----------------  ---------------- 
EPRA NTA per share**                 60.3p             62.2p 
                          ----------------  ---------------- 
Like for like capital        GBP122.44 psf     GBP125.42 psf 
 value psf 
                          ----------------  ---------------- 
Like for like valuation   GBP166.8 million  GBP170.9 million 
                          ----------------  ---------------- 
Tenants                                209               201 
                          ----------------  ---------------- 
WAULT to break***               4.81 years        4.98 years 
                          ----------------  ---------------- 
Total ownership (sq ft)       1.36 million   1.37 million sq 
                                     sq ft                ft 
                          ----------------  ---------------- 
Net assets                GBP106.4 million    GBP109 million 
                          ----------------  ---------------- 
Loan to value                        40.7%             42.2% 
                          ----------------  ---------------- 
Loan to value (net of 
 cash)                               35.9%             36.8% 
                          ----------------  ---------------- 
 

Definitions

* Underlying profit before tax excludes profit/loss on revaluation and sale of properties and interest rate swaps

   **     EPRA = European Public Real Estate Association 
   ***    WAULT = Weighted Average Unexpired Lease Term 

Enquiries:

 
Real Estate Investors Plc 
 Paul Bassi/Marcus Daly                        +44 (0)121 212 3446 
 
  Cavendish Securities (Nominated Adviser) 
  Katy Birkin/Ben Jeynes                       +44 (0)20 7220 0500 
 
  Liberum (Broker) 
  Jamie Richards/William King                  +44 (0)20 3100 2000 
 

About Real Estate Investors Plc

Real Estate Investors Plc is a publicly quoted, internally managed property investment company and REIT with a portfolio of mixed-use commercial property, managed by a highly-experienced property team with over 100 years of combined experience of operating in the Midlands property market across all sectors. The Company's strategy is to invest in well located, real estate assets in the established and proven markets across the Midlands, with income and capital growth potential, realisable through active portfolio management, refurbishment, change of use and lettings. The portfolio has no material reliance on a single asset or occupier. On 1st January 2015, the Company converted to a REIT. Real Estate Investment Trusts are listed property investment companies or groups not liable to corporation tax on their rental income or capital gains from their qualifying activities. The Company aims to deliver capital growth and income enhancement from its assets, supporting its dividend policy. Further information on the Company can be found at www.reiplc.com .

CHAIRMAN'S & CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S STATEMENT

Despite the backdrop of market uncertainty and the lowest level of activity since the financial crisis of 2008, the diversity and flexibility of our portfolio has allowed us to attract interest from private investors and owner occupiers, enabling us to progress our sales programme and reduce debt in line with our stated strategy. At the half year, we had disposed of GBP3.6 million of assets and repaid GBP3.6 million of debt. Since the period end, we have disposed of a further GBP6.8 million of assets and repaid a further GBP4.8 million of debt, resulting in total sales year to date of GBP10.4 million and total debt repayment of GBP8.4 million. These sales are at an aggregate uplift of 8.7%, (pre-costs) to December 2022 year end book value (comprising of 18 retail units and a drive-thru pod development).

Operationally, the REI portfolio remains stable with robust rent collection levels of 99.93% for H1 2023. Revenue as at 30 June 2023 was GBP6.1 million (H1 2022: GBP7.2 million) with the reduction due to H2 2022 and H1 2023 disposals. Underlying profit at the half year was GBP2.2 million (H1 2022: GBP2.9 million) with a loss before tax of GBP779,000, driven predominantly by a GBP4.1 million non-cash loss on property revaluations which is reflective of market sentiment towards the office sector and a lack of transactional evidence. Of the GBP4.1 million valuation reduction, 51.2% was across offices.

There remains a risk of downward pressure on future valuations due to rising interest rates and an inactive investment market, however, our active asset management approach and diversified portfolio offer some protection against this. Contracted rents at the half year were GBP12.5 million p.a. (H1 2022: GBP14 million p.a.) reflecting loss of rent from sales in H2 2022 and H1 2023. At the period end, WAULT was 4.81 years to break and 5.99 years to expiry, with occupancy sitting at 85.04%. Post period lettings that are expected to complete in H2 2023, will also add to our revenues and occupancy going forward, along with the potential to add further capital appreciation and further sales stock.

The business remains well insulated from rising rates with low gearing of 35.9% (net of cash) and 100% fixed debt at an average cost of 3.7%, with a blended debt maturity of 18 months at the half year. Management have engaged in refinancing discussions with lenders to ensure that sensible gearing levels are maintained in line with management's revised objective to operate gearing at sub 35%, as we are actively repaying debt from sales proceeds (previous gearing target 40%).

SALES STRATEGY

Presently, there is little or no demand from our normal buyer pool of property companies, REITs, UK funds, pension funds, overseas or private equity buyers and the only known investor demand is from private investors for smaller lot sizes, owner occupiers, government and public bodies, plus special purchasers.

Our diverse portfolio has no material reliance on any one sector, asset or occupier, and has enabled us to withstand significant headwinds of the financial crisis, a global pandemic and inflation, whilst enabling us to continue paying a covered dividend. It has also allowed us to identify properties that can be sold to a private investor market whilst most other investors remain inactive. However, attracting a buyer for the whole or large parts of the portfolio is more difficult as most buyers have a specialised strategic approach and therefore are not seeking assets of a diverse, regional nature which require focused asset management and local expertise. Management have therefore focused efforts on capitalising on private investor demand and reducing the portfolio size by disposing of assets individually, with sales year to date of GBP10.4 million.

We have identified a further 20% of our portfolio that can satisfy this known demand, some of which is already under offer and in legals. This will provide us with a reduced portfolio, which assuming a more normalised marketplace, may attract a corporate or portfolio buyer. Ongoing sales will allow us to reduce our debt further and, subject to market conditions, consider a share buyback or other form of capital return, all whilst continuing to pay a covered dividend.

BANKING & FINANCING

In March 2023, the Group extended the GBP20 million facility with Lloyds Banking Group Plc for 6 months to 31 May 2024 and the GBP31 million facility with National Westminster Bank Plc for 3 months to June 2024, with a view to formalising new facilities when long-term rates have stabilised.

As at 30 June 2023, 100% of the Company's debt was fixed, with a blended debt profile term of 18 months and an average cost of debt of 3.7% (FY 2022: 3.7%).

Management are mindful of the ongoing inflationary pressures on interest rates and proactively entered refinancing negotiations with our bankers in early H2 2023 in relation to banking facilities that are due for renewal in 2024. These discussions are ongoing and management are confident of securing competitive banking facilities for the business but, notwithstanding the continuing repayment of debt from sales, interest costs will increase next year.

The business remains multi-banked with debt spread across 4 lenders and all banking covenants (a combination of interest cover against rental income and LTV against asset value measurements) continue to be met with headroom available and cure facilities if necessary:

 
                        As at 30 June 2023 
 Lender                  Debt Facility    Debt Maturity    Hedging 
                        ---------------  ---------------  -------- 
 Lloyds Bank                GBP20.0m         May 2024       100% 
                        ---------------  ---------------  -------- 
 National Westminster 
  Bank                      GBP32.5m        June 2024       100% 
                        ---------------  ---------------  -------- 
 Barclays                   GBP7.6m       December 2024     100% 
                        ---------------  ---------------  -------- 
 Aviva                      GBP8.2m        2027 & 2030      100% 
                        ---------------  ---------------  -------- 
 

Following a successful period of sales in H1 2023 and with management firmly focused on reducing gearing levels via debt repayment, GBP3.6 million of debt was repaid using disposal proceeds during the first half of the year. Since the period end, a further sum of GBP4.8 million has been repaid, reducing total drawn debt to GBP63.4 million (H1 2022: GBP75.5 million).

 
                  2021       2022     2023 to date   Total 
 Sales          GBP17.6m   GBP20.9m     GBP10.4m    GBP48.9m 
               ---------  ---------  -------------  -------- 
 Debt Repaid    GBP11.9m    GBP18m      GBP8.4m     GBP38.3m 
               ---------  ---------  -------------  -------- 
 Total Drawn    GBP89.4m   GBP71.4m      GBP63m      GBP63m 
  Debt 
               ---------  ---------  -------------  -------- 
 

Loan to value (net of cash) at the half year was 35.9% (FY 2022: 36.8%). Our hedge facility improved by GBP388,000 for the half year to 30 June 2023. Whilst management focuses on debt repayment, it is prudent to keep cash reserves at a healthy level, should the business be required to provide bank security in the form of cash. The Company continues to maximise its returns on cash reserves, with GBP8 million cash at bank at the half year with the majority on deposit earning 4.5% on an instant access basis.

COST SAVINGS & EMPLOYEE LTIPS

Identified savings of GBP300,000 per annum and cost cutting remain on track for the year end 2023 and further savings of up to GBP500,000 have been identified for 2024. The sales of some vacant and part-vacant assets will also reduce void holding costs going forward, such was the case with the sale of part-vacant York House in July 2023 which was sold to a college and provided us with significant savings in void costs.

Management and employee LTIPs are the subject of a comprehensive review and, upon a conclusion of the review, a further announcement will be made. Any changes will be directly aligned to the stated strategy and it is anticipated that a new LTIP scheme will be adopted for the new financial year.

DIVID

Subject to the acceleration of our ongoing sales programme, along with the businesses' operational performance, the Board remains committed to paying a covered dividend. The Board is pleased to announce a Q2 2023 fully covered dividend of 0.625p reflecting a yield of 9.1% based on a mid-market opening price of 27.50p on 22 September 2023. A total of GBP48.5 million has been declared/paid to shareholders since the Company's dividend policy commenced in 2012. The proposed timetable for the dividend, which will be paid as an ordinary dividend, is as follows:

 
 Ex-dividend date:        5 October 2023 
 Record date:             6 October 2023 
                         ---------------- 
 Dividend payment date:   27 October 2023 
                         ---------------- 
 

ASSET MANAGEMENT & OCCUPANCY

The portfolio remains operationally robust with strong rent collection levels during H1 2023 of 99.93%. Q1 2023 saw a strong start to the year with occupier interest and demand for space continuing from the previous year. The occupational market in the retail sector (neighbourhood and convenience) has remained resilient. We have disposed of all our Central Business District assets, with the exception of our own Head Office in Birmingham. Our non-city centre occupier demand is stable and we are achieving our ERV levels. However, there is a notable slowing down of decision making and completions in H2 2023.

In H1 2023, we effected 46 lease events, to include 6 lease renewals, 5 breaks removals and 19 new lettings with new lettings generating GBP385,438 p.a. of new income to the portfolio, more than offsetting the GBP184,500 p.a. of lost income associated with sales. Contracted rental income was GBP12.5 million per annum as at 30 June 2023, due to disposals (FY 2022: GBP12.6m).

The portfolio occupancy at the period end was 85.04% (FY 2022: 84.54%) and the WAULT was 4.81 years to break and 5.99 years to expiry. There are a significant number of lettings in the pipeline that, once completed, will continue to improve the WAULT and occupancy across the portfolio (subject to sales and other unforeseen lease events). The lettings will also reduce the associated void costs across the portfolio and support the Company's underlying profit and covered dividend payments.

Example key lease events year to date include:

-- AFH Financial Group Limited took out a new lease for 11.5 years at the passing rent of GBP396,077 per annum (at ERV) with no break, now occupying all 25,000 sq ft at Avon House, Bromsgrove

-- Walsall - Luxury Leisure took 9,500 sq ft on a 10-year lease at GBP60,000 per annum at ERV, removing a void unit and associated costs

-- Walsall - Superdrug renewed on a 5-year lease at GBP110,900 per annum, therefore retaining a national retailer in the unit at ERV and ensuring no void costs whilst maintaining rental income to a strong covenant

-- Wolverhampton - SGS UK Limited took 5,500 sq ft at GBP90,500 per annum on a 10-year lease at Venture Court at ERV, maximising occupancy at the property

-- Bromsgrove - detailed planning consent secured for letting to Costa Coffee on a new straight 15-year lease at GBP85,000 per annum, without the usual Costa terms of a break at 10 years

-- Nuneaton - Poundland, new 5-year lease in their existing unit at a rent of GBP90,000 per annum

   --      Acocks Green - Poundstretcher, new 10-year lease at GBP60,000 per annum 

Following the recent publicity relating to Wilkos closures, we can confirm that we only have one unit in Crewe which is already the subject of discussions with other operators, representing 2% of our rental income.

PORTFOLIO MIX TABLE

 
                                                          GBP per 
                             Sector                         annum     % by income 
 Office    Office                                         5,398,868        43.17% 
          --------------------------------------------  -----------  ------------ 
   TR      Traditional Retail                             2,027,790        16.22% 
          --------------------------------------------  -----------  ------------ 
           Discount Retail - Poundland/B&M 
   DR       /Poundstretcher etc                           1,472,350        11.77% 
          --------------------------------------------  -----------  ------------ 
           Medical and Pharmaceutical - 
   M&P      Boots/Holland & Barrett etc                     759,049         6.07% 
          --------------------------------------------  -----------  ------------ 
           Restaurant/Bar/Coffee - Costa 
   RBC      Coffee                                          531,251         4.25% 
          --------------------------------------------  -----------  ------------ 
           Financial/Licences/Agency - 
   FIN      Bank of Scotland                                346,125         2.77% 
          --------------------------------------------  -----------  ------------ 
           Food Stores - Lidl, Co-op, Iceland 
   FS       etc                                             406,545         3.25% 
          --------------------------------------------  -----------  ------------ 
           Other - Hotels (Travelodge), 
            Leisure (The Gym Group), Car 
  Other     parking, AST , (Education) School/College     1,563,606        12.50% 
          --------------------------------------------  -----------  ------------ 
                                                 Total   12,505,584          100% 
 -----------------------------------------------------  -----------  ------------ 
 

PORTFOLIO SUMMARY TABLE

 
              Value         Area        Contracted    ERV          NIY     EQY     RY      Occupancy 
               (GBP)         (sq ft)     Rent (GBP)    (GBP)        (%)     (%)     (%)     (%) 
 Portfolio    166,800,000   1,373,631   12,505,584    15,066,920   7.02%   8.38%   8.46%   85.04% 
             ------------  ----------  ------------  -----------  ------  ------  ------  ---------- 
 Land*        2 ,393,390    -           -             -            -               -       - 
             ------------  ----------  ------------  -----------  ------  ------  ------  ---------- 
 Total        169,193,390   1,373,631   12,505,584    15,066,920   7.02%   8.38%   8.46%   85.04% 
             ------------  ----------  ------------  -----------  ------  ------  ------  ---------- 
 

*Our land holdings are excluded from the yield calculations

ENVIRONMENTAL & SOCIAL GOVERNANCE ("ESG")

REI continues to work with leading professionals to collect, track and report carbon emissions data across landlord-controlled areas. The reduction of the portfolio's carbon footprint is an ongoing priority for the business.

In accordance with government guidelines, REI also continues to ensure our assets meet the UK statutory regulations and timeframes for Energy Performance Certificates ("EPCs"). An overview of the asset EPC ratings across the portfolio is noted below, showing the progress since 31 December 2022 to date:

 
                               % of portfolio (by sq ft) 
 EPC Rating 
                 A       B       C       D      E      F     G     Total 
              -----  ------  ------  ------  -----  ----  ----  -------- 
 31 Dec 
  2022         1.36   22.99   31.18   37.49   6.98    0     0     100.00 
              -----  ------  ------  ------  -----  ----  ----  -------- 
 22 Sep 
  2023         2.08   37.19   22.96   34.52   3.25    0     0     100.00 
              -----  ------  ------  ------  -----  ----  ----  -------- 
 

ONGOING STRATEGY & OUTLOOK

In the absence of any consolidation opportunities within the real estate sector that align with the best interests of shareholders and the backdrop of poor market conditions, management have focused efforts on an opportunistic and targeted sales programme with a view to significantly reducing debt and leverage and returning capital to shareholders.

Maximum flexibility will be maintained when considering all future options, including share buybacks or another form of capital return, with the view to maximising shareholder returns.

The Company will consider sales of assets either on an individual or collective basis, subject to market conditions that represent value for shareholders. Management remain open to evaluating any corporate transaction that is in the best interests of shareholders.

OUR STAKEHOLDERS

Our continued thanks to our shareholders, advisors, occupiers and staff for their ongoing support and assistance.

CHANGE OF NAME OF NOMINATED ADVISER

The Company also announces that its nominated adviser has changed its name to Cavendish Securities plc (formerly Cenkos Securities plc) following completion of its own corporate merger.

   William Wyatt                                                               Paul Bassi CBE D.UNIV 
   Chairman                                                                     Chief Executive 
   22 September 2023                                                     22 September 2023 
 
 
 
  CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF 
  COMPREHENSIVE INCOME 
 For the 6 months ended 30 
  June 2023 
 
                                             Six months    Six months 
                                                     to            to                       Year ended 
                                                30 June       30 June                      31 December 
                                                   2023          2022                             2022 
                                            (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)                        (Audited) 
                                     Note       GBP'000       GBP'000                          GBP'000 
 
 Revenue                                          6,056         7,165                           13,293 
 
 Cost of sales                                  (1,285)       (1,170)                          (2,489) 
                                           ------------  ------------  ------------------------------- 
 
 Gross profit                                     4,771         5,995                           10,804 
 
 Administrative expenses                        (1,359)       (1,483)                          (3,252) 
 Gain on sale of investment 
  properties                                        737         1,001                              948 
 (Loss)/gain in fair value 
  of investment properties                      (4,073)         3,149                            3,152 
                                           ------------  ------------  ------------------------------- 
 
 Profit from operations                              76         8,662                           11,652 
 
 Finance income                                      51            26                               49 
 Finance costs                                  (1,294)       (1,600)                          (2,981) 
 Gain on financial liabilities 
  held at fair value                                388         1,238                            2,214 
                                           ------------  ------------  ------------------------------- 
 
 (Loss)/profit on ordinary 
  activities before taxation                      (779)         8,326                           10,934 
 
 Income tax charge                                    -             -                                - 
                                           ------------  ------------  ------------------------------- 
 
 Net (loss)/profit after taxation 
  and total comprehensive income                  (779)         8,326                           10,934 
                                           ------------  ------------  ------------------------------- 
 
 Basic earnings per share               6           Nil         4.64p                            6.33p 
                                           ------------  ------------  ------------------------------- 
 Diluted earnings per share             6           Nil         4.56p                            6.25p 
                                           ------------  ------------  ------------------------------- 
 EPRA earnings per share                6         1.26p         1.64p                            2.68p 
                                           ------------  ------------  ------------------------------- 
 
 
 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES 
  IN EQUITY 
 for the 6 months ended 30 June 2023 
 
 
                                Share               Share      Capital      Other   Retained     Total 
                              Capital             Premium   Redemption   Reserves   Earnings 
                                                  Account      Reserve 
                              GBP'000             GBP'000      GBP'000    GBP'000    GBP'000   GBP'000 
 
 
 At 31 December 2021           17,938              51,721          749        759     33,855   105,022 
 
 Share based payment                -                   -            -         75          -        75 
 Dividends - final 
  2021                              -                   -            -          -    (1,457)   (1,457) 
 Dividends - interim 
  2022                              -                   -            -          -    (1,458)   (1,458) 
                             --------  ------------------  -----------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
 Transactions with 
  owners                            -                   -            -         75    (2,915)   (2,840) 
                             --------  ------------------  -----------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
 
 Profit for the period 
  and total comprehensive 
  income                            -                   -            -          -      8,326     8,326 
 
 At 30 June 2022               17,938              51,721          749        834     39,266   110,508 
 
 Share based payment                -                   -            -         75          -        75 
 Share buyback                  (714)                   -            -          -    (1,296)   (2,010) 
 Transfer re capital                -                   -          714          -      (714)         - 
 Share issue                       42                 108            -      (150)          -         - 
 Dividends - interim 
  2022                              -                   -            -          -    (2,216)   (2,216) 
                             --------  ------------------  -----------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
 Transactions with 
  owners                        (672)                 108          714       (75)    (4,226)   (4,151) 
                             --------  ------------------  -----------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
 
   Profit for the period 
   and total comprehensive 
   income                           -                   -            -          -      2,608     2,608 
 
 
 At 31 December 2022           17,266              51,829        1,463        759     37,648   108,965 
 
 Share based payment                -                   -            -         75          -        75 
 Dividends - final 
  2022                              -                   -            -          -      (755)     (755) 
 Dividends - interim 
  2023                              -                   -            -          -    (1,079)   (1,079) 
                             --------  ------------------  -----------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
 
   Transactions with 
   owners                           -                   -            -         75    (1,834)   (1,759) 
                             --------  ------------------  -----------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
 
 
 Loss for the period 
  and total comprehensive 
  income                            -                   -            -          -      (779)     (779) 
 
 
 
 At 30 June 2023               17,266              51,829        1,463        834     35,035   106,427 
                             ========  ==================  ===========  =========  =========  ======== 
 
 
 
 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL 
  POSITION 
 as at 30 June 
  2023 
                                                                                                           31 December 
                                               30 June 2023                            30 June 2022               2022 
                                                (Unaudited)                             (Unaudited)          (Audited) 
                                  Note              GBP'000                                 GBP'000            GBP'000 
 
 Assets 
 Non-current assets 
 Investment properties                5             166,800                                 187,875            173,030 
 Property, plant and 
  equipment                                               2                                       4                  3 
 
                                                    166,802                                 187,879            173,033 
                                          -----------------  --------------------------------------  ----------------- 
 
 Current assets 
 Inventories                                          2,393                                   2,387              2,389 
 Trade and other receivables                          2,882                                   3,757              3,110 
 Derivative financial 
  asset                                                 456                                       -                 68 
 Cash and cash equivalents                            8,010                                   8,268              7,818 
 
                                                     13,741                                  14,412             13,385 
                                          -----------------  --------------------------------------  ----------------- 
 
 Total assets                                       180,543                                 202,291            186,418 
                                          =================  ======================================  ================= 
 
 Liabilities 
 Current liabilities 
 Bank loans                                        (52,915)                                   (379)           (20,325) 
 Trade and other payables                           (6,205)                                 (7,078)            (5,982) 
                                                   (59,120)                                 (7,457)           (26,307) 
                                          -----------------  --------------------------------------  ----------------- 
 
 Non-current liabilities 
 Bank loans                                        (14,996)                                (83,418)           (51,146) 
 Derivative financial 
  liabilities                                             -                                   (908)                  - 
 
                                                   (14,996)                                (84,326)           (51,146) 
                                          -----------------  --------------------------------------  ----------------- 
 
 Total liabilities                                 (74,116)                                (91,783)           (77,453) 
                                          =================  ======================================  ================= 
 
 
 Net assets                                         106,427                                 110,508            108,965 
                                          =================  ======================================  ================= 
 
 Equity 
 Ordinary share capital                              17,266                                  17,938             17,266 
 Share premium account                               51,829                                  51,721             51,829 
 Capital redemption 
  reserve                                             1,463                                     749              1,463 
 Other reserves                                         834                                     834                759 
 Retained earnings                                   35,035                                  39,266             37,648 
                                          -----------------  --------------------------------------  ----------------- 
 Total equity                                       106,427                                 110,508            108,965 
                                          -----------------  --------------------------------------  ----------------- 
 
 
 
 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASHFLOWS 
 for the 6 months ended 30 June 2023 
                                                     Six months           Six months 
                                                             to                   to                Year ended 
                                                        30 June                                    31 December 
                                                           2023         30 June 2022                      2022 
                                                    (Unaudited)          (Unaudited)                 (Audited) 
                                                        GBP'000              GBP'000                   GBP'000 
 Cashflows from operating activities 
 (Loss)/profit after taxation                             (779)                8,326                    10,934 
 
 Adjustments for: 
 Depreciation                                                 -                    1                         2 
 Gain on sale of investment property                      (737)              (1,001)                     (948) 
 Net valuation loss/(gain)                                4,073              (3,149)                   (3,152) 
 Share based payment                                         75                   75                       150 
 Finance income                                            (51)                 (27)                      (49) 
 Finance costs                                            1,294                1,600                     2,981 
 Gain on financial liabilities 
  held at fair value                                    (388)                (1,238)                   (2,214) 
 Increase in inventories                                    (4)                  (3)                       (5) 
 (Increase)/decrease in trade 
  and other receivables                                     231                (169)                       478 
 Decrease in trade and other 
  payables                                                (164)                (618)                   (1,051) 
 
                                                          3,550                3,797                     7,126 
                                           ====================  ===================  ======================== 
 
 
 Cash flows from investing activities 
 Expenditure on investment properties                     (425)                (723)                     (609) 
 Purchase of property, plant 
  and equipment                                             (-)                  (1)                       (1) 
 Proceeds from sale of property, 
  plant and equipment                                     3,318                5,483                    20,164 
 Interest received                                           51                   27                        49 
 
                                                          2,944                4,786                    19,603 
                                           ====================  ===================  ======================== 
 
 Cash flow from financing activities 
 Interest paid                                          (1,294)              (1,600)                   (2,981) 
 Share buyback                                                -                    -                   (2,010) 
 Equity dividends paid                                  (1,448)              (2,904)                   (5,783) 
 Repayment of bank loans                                (3,560)              (5,647)                  (17,973) 
 
                                                        (6,302)             (10,151)                  (28,747) 
                                           ====================  ===================  ======================== 
 
 Net increase/(decrease) in cash 
  and cash equivalents                                      192              (1,568)                   (2,018) 
 
 Cash and cash equivalents at 
  beginning of period                                     7,818                9,836                     9,836 
 Cash and cash equivalents at 
  end of period                                           8,010                8,268                     7,818 
                                           ====================  ===================  ======================== 
 
 

NOTES TO THE INTERIM FINANCIAL INFORMATION

for the 6 months ended 30 June 2023

   1.   BASIS OF PREPARATION 

Real Estate Investors Plc, a Public Limited Company, is incorporated and domiciled in the United Kingdom.

The interim financial report for the period ended 30 June 2023 (including the comparatives for the year ended 31 December 2022 and the period ended 30 June 2022) was approved by the board of directors on 22 September 2023.

It should be noted that accounting estimates and assumptions are used in preparation of the interim financial information. Although these estimates are based on management's best knowledge and judgement of current events and action, actual results may ultimately differ from these estimates. The areas involving a higher degree of judgement or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant to the interim financial information are set out in note 3 to the interim financial information.

The interim financial information contained within this announcement does not constitute statutory accounts within the meaning of the Companies Act 2006. The full accounts for the year ended 31 December 2022 received an unqualified report from the auditor and did not contain a statement under Section 498 of the Companies Act 2006.

   2.   ACCOUNTING POLICIES 

The interim financial information has been prepared under the historical cost convention.

The principal accounting policies and methods of computation adopted to prepare the interim financial information are consistent with those detailed in the 2022 financial statements approved by the Board on 27 March 2023.

Some accounting pronouncements which have become effective from 1 January 2023 and have therefore been adopted do not have a significant impact on the Group's financial results or position.

   3.   CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTS 

Critical accounting estimates and assumptions

The Group makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates will, by definition, seldom equal actual results. 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 accounting year are as follows:

Investment property revaluation

The Group uses the valuations performed by its independent valuers or the directors as the fair value of its investment properties. The valuation is based upon assumptions including future rental income, anticipated maintenance costs, anticipated purchaser costs and the appropriate discount rate. The valuer and the directors also make reference to market evidence of transaction prices for similar properties.

Interest rate swap valuation

The Group carries the interest rate swap as a liability at fair value through the profit or loss at a valuation. This valuation has been provided by the Group's bankers.

Critical judgements in applying the Group's accounting policies

The Group makes critical judgements in applying accounting policies. The critical judgement that has been made is as follows:

REIT Status

The Group elected for REIT status with effect from 1 January 2015. As a result, providing certain conditions are met, the Group's profit from property investment and gains are exempt from UK corporation tax. In the Directors' opinion the Group have met these conditions.

   4.   SEGMENTAL REPORTING 

Primary reporting - business segment

The only material business that the Group has is that of investment in commercial properties. Revenue relates entirely to rental income from investment properties.

   5.   INVESTMENT PROPERTIES 

The carrying amount of investment properties for the periods presented in the interim financial information is reconciled as follows:

 
                                                 GBP'000 
 
 Carrying amount at 31 December 2021             188,485 
 
 Additions                                           723 
 
 Disposals                                       (4,482) 
 
 Revaluation                                       3,149 
                                       ----------------- 
 
 Carrying amount at 30 June 2022                 187,875 
 
 Additions                                         (114) 
 
 Disposals                                      (14,734) 
 
 Revaluation                                           3 
                                       ----------------- 
 
 Carrying amount at 31 December 2022             173,030 
 
 Additions                                           425 
 
 Disposals                                       (2,582) 
 
 Revaluation                                     (4,073) 
 
 
 Carrying amount at 30 June 2023                 166,800 
                                       ================= 
 
   6.   EARNINGS AND NAV PER SHARE 

The calculation of the basic earnings per share is based on the profit attributable to ordinary shareholders divided by the weighted average number of shares in issue during the period. The calculation of the diluted earnings per share is based on the basic earnings per share adjusted to allow for all dilutive potential ordinary shares.

The calculation of the basic NAV per share is based on the balance sheet net asset value divided by the weighted average number of shares in issue during the period. The calculation of the diluted NAV per share is based on the basic NAV per share adjusted to allow for all dilutive potential ordinary shares.

The European Public Real Estate Association ("EPRA") earnings and NAV figures have been included to allow more effective comparisons to be drawn between the Group and other businesses in the real estate sector.

EPRA EPS per share

 
                                            30 June 2023                                  30 June 2022 
                             Earnings        Shares   Earnings per share   Earnings        Shares   Earnings per share 
                              GBP'000            No                    P    GBP'000            No                    P 
 
 Basic (loss)/earnings per 
  share                         (779)   172,651,577                  Nil      8,326   179,377,898                 4.64 
 Fair value of investment 
  properties                    4,073                                       (3,149) 
 Gain on disposal of 
  investment properties         (737)                                       (1,001) 
 Change in fair value of 
  derivatives                   (388)                                       (1,238) 
 EPRA Earnings                  2,169   172,651,577                 1.26      2,938   179,377,898                 1.64 
                            =========  ============  ===================  =========  ============  =================== 
 

NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE

The Group has adopted the new EPRA NAV measures which came into effect for accounting periods starting 1 January 2020. EPRA issued new best practice recommendations (BPR) for financial guidelines on its definitions of NAV measures. The new NAV measures as outlined in the BPR are EPRA net tangible assets (NTA), EPRA net reinvestment value (NRV) and EPRA net disposal value (NDV).

The Group considered EPRA Net Tangible Assets (NTA) to be the most relevant NAV measure for the Group and we are now reporting this as our primary NAV measure, replacing our previously reported EPRA NAV and EPRA NNNAV per share metrics. EPRA NTA excludes the intangible assets and the cumulative fair value adjustments for debt-related derivatives which are unlikely to be realised.

 
                                                                                            30 June 2023 
 
                                                                                  EPRA NTA      EPRA NRV     EPRA NDV 
                                                                                   GBP'000       GBP'000       GBP'000 
 
 Net assets                                                                        106,426       106,426       106,426 
 Fair value of derivatives                                                           (456)         (456)             - 
 Real estate transfer tax                                                                -       1 0,842             - 
 EPRA NAV                                                                          105,970      1 16,812       106,426 
                                                                              ------------  ------------  ------------ 
 Number of ordinary shares issued for diluted and EPRA net assets per share    175,749,795   175,749,795   175,749,795 
 EPRA NAV per share                                                                  60.3p         66.5p         60.6p 
                                                                              ============  ============  ============ 
 

The adjustments made to get to the EPRA NAV measures above are as follows:

-- Real estate transfer tax: Gross value of property portfolio as provided in the Valuation Certificate (i.e. the value prior to any deduction of purchasers' costs).

-- Fair value of derivatives: Exclude fair value financial instruments that are used for hedging purposes where the company has the intention of keeping the hedge position until the end of the contractual duration.

 
                                                                                        31 December 2022 
 
                                                                               EPRA NTA         EPRA NRV     EPRA NDV 
                                                                                GBP'000          GBP'000       GBP'000 
 
 Net assets                                                                     108,965          108,965       108,965 
 Fair value of derivatives                                                         (68)             (68)             - 
 Real estate transfer tax                                                             -           11,245             - 
----------------------------------------------------------------------- 
 EPRA NAV                                                                       108,897          120,142       108,965 
-----------------------------------------------------------------------  --------------  ---------------  ------------ 
 Number of ordinary shares issued for diluted and EPRA net assets per 
  share                                                                     174,964,252      174,964,252   174,964,252 
 EPRA NAV per share                                                               62.2p            68.7p         62.3p 
=======================================================================  ==============  ===============  ============ 
 
                                                                                     30 JUNE 2023     31 DECEMBER 2022 
                                                                                     No of Shares         No of Shares 
 
 Number of ordinary shares issued at end of period                                    172,651,577          172,651,577 
 
 Dilutive impact of options                                                             3,098,218            2,312,675 
 
 Number of ordinary shares issued for diluted and EPRA net assets per share           175,749,795          174,964,252 
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------  ------------------  ------------------- 
 Net assets per ordinary share 
 Basic                                                                                      60.3p                62.2p 
 Diluted                                                                                    66.5p                68.7p 
 EPRA NTA                                                                                   60.6p                62.3p 
=============================================================================  ==================  =================== 
 
 

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September 25, 2023 02:00 ET (06:00 GMT)

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