Company Registration No. SC015256 (Scotland)
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Annual report and financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2023
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Company information
Directors
CHW Thomson
DHE Thomson
Secretary
S Evans
Company number
SC015256
Registered office
The Courier Buildings
2 Albert Square
Dundee
Tayside
DD1 9QJ
Auditor
Henderson Loggie LLP
The Vision Building
20 Greenmarket
Dundee
DD1 4QB
Bankers
Bank of Scotland
65 - 69 Murraygate
Dundee
DD1 2EA
Solicitors
James and George Collie LLP
1 East Craibstone Street
Aberdeen
AB11 6YQ
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Contents
Page
Strategic report
1 - 3
Directors' report
4
Directors' responsibilities statement
5
Independent auditor's report
6 - 8
Statement of comprehensive income
9
Balance sheet
10
Statement of changes in equity
11
Notes to the financial statements
12 - 23
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Strategic report
for the year ended 31 March 2023
- 1 -
The directors present the strategic report for the year ended 31 March 2023.
Fair review of the business
The year reflected continuing recovery in revenues post COVID-19, but the recovery was not sufficient to counter the significant inflationary increases in all costs, particularly paper and print costs resulting from the effects of the war in Ukraine.
Overall turnover was up by £0.7m (3.7%) but direct materials increased by £3.2m and administrative expenses increased by £1.5m resulting in an operating profit of £1.1m (2022: £5.1m).
Circulation revenues were down by 3.1% as face price increases did not cover volume falls. There was however progress in digital subscriptions in the year through the Group transformation programme.
Advertising revenues were up by 13%.
Principal risks and uncertainties
| | |
Inflation and Continuity of Supply The uncertainties created by continuing changes in geopolitical issues resulting in uncertainties and inflation in our supply chains. | | Our resources allow us to plan procurement well in advance. We are also developing new revenue streams that are aimed to improve the resilience of the business in potentially uncertain times. Attracting and keeping the best people we can is a priority, and we are engaged in the long-term development of careers and recognition by way of new reward strategies. The Group uses its buying power to minimise cost increases whilst being mindful of the quality of suppliers. Where appropriate, currency hedge arrangements are put in place. |
Market risk The overall health of both the UK and Global economies has a direct effect on the performance of the business. The Company may be vulnerable to sudden economic downturns which can affect the level of revenues available. | | The Group has protected itself from both short and long-term issues by maintaining a healthy balance sheet with no recourse to borrowings. The Group strategy is constantly evolving but combines objectives both to strengthen our position in our conventional media businesses and to diversify into different sectors. We continue to invest in marketing and market research to support our brands and to develop processes which will allow us to know more about our customers and therefore to be able to offer them a wider but more focused range of services and goods both on the high street and online. |
Competition Competition exists in all markets in which the Group operates, and competitors may launch new products and titles which could adversely affect the performance of the Group. | | We constantly evaluate the performance of our products and services while investing in new products and developing digital services and brands. |
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Strategic report (continued)
for the year ended 31 March 2023
- 2 -
Principal risks and uncertainties (continued)
| | |
Health and Safety The health of our staff and visitors to our premises is vital to our ongoing business. COVID-19 brought into sharp focus the ability of a major health event to threaten both the health of our stakeholders and our commercial operations. The shift to hybrid working has presented a new set of health and safety risks that need to be managed | | Health and Safety matters are reported directly to the Board. The Directors are aware of environmental, health and safety and other risks which could affect our business and prioritise compliance in all areas of operation. The Group offers health insurance to staff and provides access to both in-house and external gym facilities. The Group HR department has programmes of instruction and guidance on mental health and wellbeing. |
Costs Staff costs and raw materials remain the major cost faced by the Group. | | Our HR and procurement teams ensure the business remains focused on managing these costs and is supported with the necessary data to do so. |
Cyber Risk The risk of cyber-attack is ever-present and has the potential to interrupt or halt operations, as well as to cause material data or financial loss | | In the ever-evolving world of cyber security we see a constant threat of attack and, like many businesses, are experiencing attacks on our network on a regular basis. We have in place a number of overlapping protection systems and policies that are effective and are preventing serious harm. However, it is important we evolve our protection as rapidly as the threat evolves. To make this happen we have established a company-wide Security & Compliance steering group that will ensure we fully understand our cyber security risk profile and are investing in the key areas to ensure we are protected. This group has partnered with cyber security experts Quorum (a Microsoft preferred partner) who will proactively monitor our systems for vulnerability and assist in making improvements where required. |
People We depend heavily on the ability to attract and keep the best people for our business. | | The Group continually monitors remuneration and conditions against market comparators. We offer competitive terms and provide a range of career and development opportunities. |
Whilst the outlook for print media remains challenging the Company’s Aberdeen based titles are key to the Group targets of increasing digital revenues, particularly subscribers. These titles have a solid base of support in the community and are actively involved in the promotion of the area as the energy sector changes.
The company continues to place considerable emphasis on environmental compliance and not only seeks to ensure on-going compliance with relevant legislation but also strives to ensure that environmental best practice is incorporated into its key processes. Wherever possible we will seek to eliminate use of hazardous chemicals. The company devotes management time to and reports on key environmental matters including specific energy consumption and packaging waste.
Details of the Group’s report on our Scope 1 and 2 emissions in our Streamlined Energy & Carbon Reporting (SECR) obligations are included in the Parent Company strategic report. No chemicals are discharged through the public waste system. Any effluent is removed by environmental recovery specialists.
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Strategic report (continued)
for the year ended 31 March 2023
- 3 -
Principal risks and uncertainties (continued)
The company monitors forthcoming legislation regularly and continues to manage proactively the operational and reporting requirements arising from legislation and an increasingly regulatory regime throughout its operations.
Key performance indicators
The key performance indicators of revenue, margin and costs are commented on above.
The company's staff resources are vital to its operational success and performance indicators are closely monitored including the number of accidents and time lost from injury, illness and otherwise. The company takes the safety of its staff very seriously and these indicators along with regular safety training and similar initiatives help ensure standards are maintained.
CHW Thomson
Director
26 October 2023
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Directors' report
for the year ended 31 March 2023
- 4 -
The directors present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2023.
Principal activities
The company is a wholly owned subsidiary of DC Thomson & Company Limited. The company's principal activities are the printing and publishing of newspapers in Aberdeen and the North of Scotland.
Directors
The directors who held office during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were as follows:
CHW Thomson
DHE Thomson
Results and dividends
The results for the year are set out on page 9.
No ordinary dividends were paid. The directors do not recommend payment of a final dividend.
Statement of disclosure to auditor
So far as each person who was a director at the date of approving this report is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the company’s auditor is unaware. Additionally, the directors individually have taken all the necessary steps that they ought to have taken as directors in order to make themselves aware of all relevant audit information and to establish that the company’s auditor is aware of that information.
Strategic report
Included within the strategic report is an indication of the principal risks and uncertainties including the risks associated with the market conditions, competition, foreign currency risk, and legislative and compliance risks.
On behalf of the board
CHW Thomson
Director
26 October 2023
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Directors' responsibilities statement
for the year ended 31 March 2023
- 5 -
The directors are responsible for preparing the Strategic Report, Directors' Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations.
Company law requires the directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under that law the directors have elected to prepare the financial statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable law). Under company law the directors must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the company and of the profit or loss of the company for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the directors are required to:
- select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
- make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent; and
- prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the company will continue in business.
The directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the company's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Independent auditor's report
to the members of Aberdeen Journals Limited
- 6 -
Opinion
We have audited the financial statements of Aberdeen Journals Limited (the 'company') for the year ended 31 March 2023 which comprise the statement of comprehensive income, the balance sheet, the statement of changes in equity and notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including FRS 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).
In our opinion the financial statements:
give a true and fair view of the state of the company's affairs as at 31 March 2023 and of its profit for the year then ended;
have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and
have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.
Conclusions relating to going concern
In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the directors' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.
Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the company's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.
Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the directors with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.
The other information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. The directors are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.
We have nothing to report in this regard.
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Independent auditor's report (continued)
to the members of Aberdeen Journals Limited
- 7 -
Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006
In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of our audit:
the information given in the strategic report and the directors' report for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and
the strategic report and the directors' report have been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.
Matters on which we are required to report by exception
In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the strategic report and the directors' report.
We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:
adequate accounting records have not been kept, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or
the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or
certain disclosures of remuneration specified by law are not made; or
we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.
Responsibilities of directors
As explained more fully in the directors' responsibilities statement, the directors are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, the directors are responsible for assessing the company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.
Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The specific procedures for this engagement and the extent to which these are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, are detailed below.
As part of our planning process:
We enquired of management the systems and controls the company has in place, the areas of the financial statements that are mostly susceptible to the risk of irregularities and fraud, and whether there was any known, suspected or alleged fraud. Management informed us that there were no instances of known, suspected or alleged fraud;
We obtained an understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks applicable to the company. We determined that the following were most relevant: Data Protection Act 2018; health and safety; employment law (including payroll and pension regulations); and compliance with the UK Companies Act;
We considered the incentives and opportunities that exist in the company, including the extent of management bias, which present a potential for irregularities and fraud to be perpetrated, and tailored our risk assessment accordingly; and
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Independent auditor's report (continued)
to the members of Aberdeen Journals Limited
- 8 -
Using our knowledge of the company, together with the discussions held with management at the planning stage, we formed a conclusion on the risk of misstatement due to irregularities including fraud and tailored our procedures according to this risk assessment.
The key procedures we undertook to detect irregularities including fraud during the course of the audit included:
Enquiries with management about any known or suspected instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations and fraud;
Reviewing group board meeting minutes;
Inspecting key policies and procedures in place over data protection and health and safety;
Challenging assumptions and judgements made by management in their significant accounting estimates, in particular in relation to the carrying value of tangible fixed assets and trade debtors, along with the estimation of accruals; and
Auditing the risk of management override of controls, including through testing journal entries and other adjustments for appropriateness.
Owing to the inherent limitations of an audit, there is an unavoidable risk that some material misstatements in the financial statements may not be detected, even though the audit is properly planned and performed in accordance with the ISAs (UK). For instance, the further removed non-compliance is from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, the less likely the auditor is to become aware of it or to recognise the non-compliance.
A further description of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at: https://www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's report.
This report is made solely to the company's members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the company's members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the company and the company's members, as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.
Gavin Black (Senior Statutory Auditor)
For and on behalf of Henderson Loggie LLP
26 October 2023
Chartered Accountants
Statutory Auditor
The Vision Building
20 Greenmarket
Dundee
DD1 4QB
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Statement of comprehensive income
for the year ended 31 March 2023
- 9 -
2023
2022
Notes
£
£
Turnover
3
19,688,145
18,976,783
Cost of sales
(6,098,263)
(2,883,767)
Gross profit
13,589,882
16,093,016
Administrative expenses
(12,509,874)
(11,052,181)
Other operating income
42,560
46,272
Profit before taxation
1,122,568
5,087,107
Tax on profit
6
(218,071)
(953,857)
Profit for the financial year
904,497
4,133,250
The statement of comprehensive income has been prepared on the basis that all operations are continuing operations.
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Balance sheet
as at 31 March 2023
- 10 -
2023
2022
Notes
£
£
£
£
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
7
1,793,725
1,992,531
Current assets
Stocks
8
8,022
Debtors
9
13,168,661
13,224,595
Cash at bank and in hand
5,032
44,987
13,173,693
13,277,604
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
10
(2,938,966)
(4,146,180)
Net current assets
10,234,727
9,131,424
Net assets
12,028,452
11,123,955
Capital and reserves
Called up share capital
13
10,001
10,001
Profit and loss reserves
14
12,018,451
11,113,954
Total equity
12,028,452
11,123,955
The financial statements were approved by the board of directors and authorised for issue on 26 October 2023 and are signed on its behalf by:
CHW Thomson
Director
Company Registration No. SC015256
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Statement of changes in equity
for the year ended 31 March 2023
- 11 -
Share capital
Profit and loss reserves
Total
£
£
£
Balance at 1 April 2021
10,001
6,980,704
6,990,705
Year ended 31 March 2022:
Profit and total comprehensive income for the year
-
4,133,250
4,133,250
Balance at 31 March 2022
10,001
11,113,954
11,123,955
Year ended 31 March 2023:
Profit and total comprehensive income for the year
-
904,497
904,497
Balance at 31 March 2023
10,001
12,018,451
12,028,452
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Notes to the financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2023
- 12 -
1
Accounting policies
Company information
Aberdeen Journals Limited is a private company limited by shares incorporated in Scotland. The registered office is The Courier Buildings, 2 Albert Square, Dundee, Tayside, DD1 9QJ.
1.1
Accounting convention
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with FRS 102 “The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland” (“FRS 102”) and the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.
The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the company. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.
This company is a qualifying entity for the purposes of FRS 102, being a member of a group where the parent of that group prepares publicly available consolidated financial statements, including this company, which are intended to give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit or loss of the group. The company has therefore taken advantage of exemptions from the following disclosure requirements:
Section 7 ‘Statement of Cash Flows’ – Presentation of a statement of cash flow and related notes and disclosures;
Section 33 ‘Related Party Disclosures’ – Compensation for key management personnel and disclosure of transactions entered into between one or two members of the group on the basis that all parties are wholly owned within the group.
The financial statements of the company are consolidated in the financial statements of D.C. Thomson & Company Limited. These consolidated financial statements are available from its registered office.
1.2
Going concern
The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis. The directors have considered relevant information, including the financial projections, forecast future cash flows and the impact of subsequent events in making their assessment. The directors have performed a robust analysis of forecast future cash flows taking into account the potential impact on the business of possible future scenarios arising from rising input costs and general economic conditionstrue. This analysis also considers the effectiveness of available measures to assist in mitigating the impact.
Based on these assessments and having regard to the resources available to the company, the directors have concluded that there is no material uncertainty and that they can continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the annual report and financial statements.
1.3
Turnover
Turnover is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable and represents amounts receivable for goods and services provided in the normal course of business, net of sales related taxes and discounts. Advertising revenue is recognised on the date of publication and sales revenue is recognised at point of sale less provisions for levels of expected returns.
Revenue from interest is recognised as interest accrues using the effective interest method.
1.4
Tangible fixed assets
Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
for the year ended 31 March 2023
1
Accounting policies (continued)
- 13 -
Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:
Land and buildings leasehold
15 to 25 years straight line
Plant & Machinery
10 years straight line
Fixtures, fittings & equipment
10 years straight line
Computer equipment
5 years straight line
Motor Vehicles
4 years straight line
The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is credited or charged to profit or loss.
1.5
Impairment of fixed assets
At each reporting period end date, the company reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any). Where it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, the company estimates the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit to which the asset belongs.
Recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset for which the estimates of future cash flows have not been adjusted.
If the recoverable amount of an asset (or cash-generating unit) is estimated to be less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset (or cash-generating unit) is reduced to its recoverable amount. An impairment loss is recognised immediately in profit or loss, unless the relevant asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case the impairment loss is treated as a revaluation decrease.
Recognised impairment losses are reversed if, and only if, the reasons for the impairment loss have ceased to apply. Where an impairment loss subsequently reverses, the carrying amount of the asset (or cash-generating unit) is increased to the revised estimate of its recoverable amount, but so that the increased carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognised for the asset (or cash-generating unit) in prior years. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognised immediately in profit or loss, unless the relevant asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case the reversal of the impairment loss is treated as a revaluation increase.
1.6
Stocks
Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell. Cost comprises direct materials and, where applicable, direct labour costs and those overheads that have been incurred in bringing the stocks to their present location and condition.
At each reporting date, an assessment is made for impairment. Any excess of the carrying amount of stocks over its estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell is recognised as an impairment loss in profit or loss. Reversals of impairment losses are also recognised in profit or loss.
1.7
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents are basic financial assets and include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
for the year ended 31 March 2023
1
Accounting policies (continued)
- 14 -
1.8
Financial instruments
The company has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.
Financial instruments are recognised in the company's balance sheet when the company becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.
Basic financial assets
Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.
Impairment of financial assets
Financial assets, other than those held at fair value through profit and loss, are assessed for indicators of impairment at each reporting end date.
Financial assets are impaired where there is objective evidence that, as a result of one or more events that occurred after the initial recognition of the financial asset, the estimated future cash flows have been affected. If an asset is impaired, the impairment loss is the difference between the carrying amount and the present value of the estimated cash flows discounted at the asset’s original effective interest rate. The impairment loss is recognised in profit or loss.
If there is a decrease in the impairment loss arising from an event occurring after the impairment was recognised, the impairment is reversed. The reversal is such that the current carrying amount does not exceed what the carrying amount would have been, had the impairment not previously been recognised. The impairment reversal is recognised in profit or loss.
Derecognition of financial assets
Financial assets are derecognised only when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire or are settled, or when the company transfers the financial asset and substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to another entity, or if some significant risks and rewards of ownership are retained but control of the asset has transferred to another party that is able to sell the asset in its entirety to an unrelated third party.
Classification of financial liabilities
Financial liabilities and equity instruments are classified according to the substance of the contractual arrangements entered into. An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the company after deducting all of its liabilities.
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
for the year ended 31 March 2023
1
Accounting policies (continued)
- 15 -
Basic financial liabilities
Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and loans from fellow group companies, are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.
Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method.
Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of business from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.
Derecognition of financial liabilities
Financial liabilities are derecognised when the company’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.
1.9
Equity instruments
Equity instruments issued by the company are recorded at the proceeds received, net of transaction costs. Dividends payable on equity instruments are recognised as liabilities once they are no longer at the discretion of the company.
1.10
Taxation
The tax expense represents the sum of the tax currently payable and deferred tax.
Current tax
The tax currently payable is based on taxable profit for the year. Taxable profit differs from net profit as reported in the profit and loss account because it excludes items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and it further excludes items that are never taxable or deductible. The company’s liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting end date.
Deferred tax
Deferred tax liabilities are generally recognised for all timing differences and deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that they will be recovered against the reversal of deferred tax liabilities or other future taxable profits. Such assets and liabilities are not recognised if the timing difference arises from goodwill or from the initial recognition of other assets and liabilities in a transaction that affects neither the tax profit nor the accounting profit.
The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each reporting end date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available to allow all or part of the asset to be recovered. Deferred tax is calculated at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the period when the liability is settled or the asset is realised. Deferred tax is charged or credited in the profit and loss account, except when it relates to items charged or credited directly to equity, in which case the deferred tax is also dealt with in equity. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when the company has a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets and liabilities and the deferred tax assets and liabilities relate to taxes levied by the same tax authority.
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
for the year ended 31 March 2023
1
Accounting policies (continued)
- 16 -
1.11
Employee benefits
The costs of short-term employee benefits are recognised as a liability and an expense, unless those costs are required to be recognised as part of the cost of stock or fixed assets.
The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received.
Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the company is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.
1.12
Retirement benefits
The pension scheme of which the company is a member is a defined benefit scheme operated by its parent company DC Thomson & Company Limited. As the parent company is legally responsible for the plan, it is accounted for as a defined contribution scheme by the company in accordance with section 28 of FRS 102. The pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the company to the scheme during the year.
1.13
Leases
Rental income from operating leases is recognised on a straight line basis over the term of the relevant lease. Initial direct costs incurred in negotiating and arranging an operating lease are added to the carrying amount of the leased asset and recognised on a straight line basis over the lease term.
Rentals payable under operating leases, including any lease incentives received, are charged to profit or loss on a straight line basis over the term of the relevant lease except where another more systematic basis is more representative of the time pattern in which economic benefits from the leases asset are consumed.
1.14
Government grants
Government grants are recognised at the fair value of the asset received or receivable when there is reasonable assurance that the grant conditions will be met and the grants will be received.
A grant that specifies performance conditions is recognised in income when the performance conditions are met. Where a grant does not specify performance conditions it is recognised in income when the proceeds are received or receivable. A grant received before the recognition criteria are satisfied is recognised as a liability.
1.15
Foreign exchange
Transactions in currencies other than pounds sterling are recorded at the rates of exchange prevailing at the dates of the transactions. At each reporting end date, monetary assets and liabilities that are denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the rates prevailing on the reporting end date. Gains and losses arising on translation in the period are included in profit or loss.
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
for the year ended 31 March 2023
- 17 -
2
Judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty
In the application of the company’s accounting policies, the directors are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.
Critical judgements
The following judgements (apart from those involving estimates) have had the most significant effect on amounts recognised in the financial statements.
Tangible fixed assets
The annual depreciation charge for tangible assets is sensitive to changes in the estimated useful economic lives and residual values of the assets. The useful economic lives and residual values are reassessed annually. They are amended when necessary to reflect the current estimates, based on technological advancement, future investments, economic utilisation and the physical condition of the assets.
Trade debtor recovery
Credit control is an important function which requires assessment, on an ongoing basis, of the recoverability of amounts due from debtors. Where recovery is in doubt, management will adequately provide against this specific debt and will arrive at such conclusions based on the knowledge of the debtor and their “ability to pay”. Management adopt a prudent approach to credit control.
Accruals
Management estimate requirements for accruals using post year end information and information available from detailed budgets. This identifies cost and income that are expected to be incurred. Accruals are only released where there is a reasonable expectation that these costs will not be invoiced in the future.
3
Turnover and other revenue
An analysis of the company's turnover is as follows:
2023
2022
£
£
Turnover analysed by class of business
Newspapers
12,218,070
12,613,944
Advertising
6,125,149
5,425,025
Other income
1,344,926
937,814
19,688,145
18,976,783
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
for the year ended 31 March 2023
3
Turnover and other revenue (continued)
- 18 -
2023
2022
£
£
Turnover analysed by geographical market
United Kingdom
19,688,145
18,800,587
Europe
-
174,924
Rest of the World
-
1,272
19,688,145
18,976,783
2023
2022
£
£
Other significant revenue
Grants received
3,272
4
Operating profit
2023
2022
Operating profit for the year is stated after charging/(crediting):
£
£
Exchange differences apart from those arising on financial instruments measured at fair value through profit or loss
4,451
1,266
Government grants
(3,272)
Fees payable to the company's auditor for the audit of the company's financial statements
15,680
13,065
Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets
198,806
241,439
Profit on disposal of tangible fixed assets
(1,500)
Operating lease charges
629,379
824,231
5
Employees
The average monthly number of persons (including directors) employed by the company during the year was:
2023
2022
Number
Number
Administration and publishing
197
199
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
for the year ended 31 March 2023
5
Employees (continued)
- 19 -
Their aggregate remuneration comprised:
2023
2022
£
£
Wages and salaries
6,475,378
6,358,323
Social security costs
596,640
597,983
Pension costs
3,124
4,515
7,075,142
6,960,821
Redundancy payments made or committed
55,788
55,402
6
Taxation
2023
2022
£
£
Current tax
UK corporation tax on profits for the current period
202,349
964,103
Adjustments in respect of prior periods
(8,027)
Total current tax
202,349
956,076
Deferred tax
Origination and reversal of timing differences
15,722
4,916
Changes in tax rates
(40,734)
Adjustment in respect of prior periods
33,599
Total deferred tax
15,722
(2,219)
Total tax charge
218,071
953,857
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
for the year ended 31 March 2023
6
Taxation (continued)
- 20 -
The actual charge for the year can be reconciled to the expected charge for the year based on the profit or loss and the standard rate of tax as follows:
2023
2022
£
£
Profit before taxation
1,122,568
5,087,107
Expected tax charge based on the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 19% (2022: 19%)
213,288
966,550
Tax effect of expenses that are not deductible in determining taxable profit
1,010
1,289
Adjustments in respect of prior years
(8,027)
Deferred tax adjustments in respect of prior years
33,599
Effect of change in deferred tax rate
(40,734)
Difference between corporation and deferred tax rates
3,773
1,180
Taxation charge for the year
218,071
953,857
7
Tangible fixed assets
Land and buildings leasehold
Plant & Machinery
Fixtures, fittings & equipment
Computer equipment
Motor Vehicles
Total
£
£
£
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 April 2022
4,198,325
283,878
585,682
602,617
87,897
5,758,399
Disposals
(154,945)
(265,659)
(51,181)
(217,400)
(87,897)
(777,082)
At 31 March 2023
4,043,380
18,219
534,501
385,217
4,981,317
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 April 2022
2,241,018
283,878
557,789
595,286
87,897
3,765,868
Depreciation charged in the year
198,806
198,806
Eliminated in respect of disposals
(190,169)
(265,659)
(23,288)
(210,069)
(87,897)
(777,082)
At 31 March 2023
2,249,655
18,219
534,501
385,217
3,187,592
Carrying amount
At 31 March 2023
1,793,725
1,793,725
At 31 March 2022
1,957,307
27,893
7,331
1,992,531
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
for the year ended 31 March 2023
7
Tangible fixed assets (continued)
- 21 -
Investment properties rented to another group entity have been accounted for using the cost model. The carrying value of these investment properties included within tangible fixed assets is £831,214 (2022 - £937,343).
8
Stocks
2023
2022
£
£
Raw materials and consumables
8,022
9
Debtors
2023
2022
Amounts falling due within one year:
£
£
Trade debtors
1,147,286
1,226,132
Amounts owed by group undertakings
11,509,416
11,295,466
Other debtors
160,406
15,649
Prepayments and accrued income
236,066
556,139
13,053,174
13,093,386
Deferred tax asset (note 11)
115,487
131,209
13,168,661
13,224,595
10
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2023
2022
£
£
Trade creditors
98,953
46,368
Corporation tax
1,166,451
2,002,097
Other taxation and social security
149,623
179,719
Other creditors
143
7,528
Accruals and deferred income
1,523,796
1,910,468
2,938,966
4,146,180
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
for the year ended 31 March 2023
- 22 -
11
Deferred taxation
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset where the company has a legally enforceable right to do so. The following is the analysis of the deferred tax balances (after offset) for financial reporting purposes:
Assets
Assets
2023
2022
Balances:
£
£
Accelerated capital allowances
112,362
117,651
Provisions
3,125
13,558
115,487
131,209
2023
Movements in the year:
£
Asset at 1 April 2022
131,209
Charge to profit or loss
(15,722)
Asset at 31 March 2023
115,487
12
Retirement benefit schemes
2023
2022
Defined contribution schemes
£
£
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes
3,124
4,515
Aberdeen Journals Limited is a participating employer in its parent company scheme. D.C. Thomson & Company Limited is legally responsible for the scheme and there is no contractual agreement or stated policy for charging of costs associated with the scheme to Aberdeen Journals Limited. In accordance with section 28 of FRS 102, the scheme is therefore accounted for as a defined contribution scheme in these financial statements.
Contributions to the scheme are based on triennial valuations undertaken by a qualified actuary. Due to the surplus on the scheme there are currently no contributions required.
Aberdeen Journals Limited has taken advantage of the exemptions in section 28 of FRS 102 not to disclose details of the schemes assets and liabilities on the basis that these disclosures are included in the consolidated financial statements of the parent company D.C. Thomson & Company Limited, a copy of which can be obtained from its registered office.
Aberdeen Journals Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
for the year ended 31 March 2023
- 23 -
13
Share capital
2023
2022
2023
2022
Ordinary share capital
Number
Number
£
£
Issued and fully paid
Ordinary shares of £1 each
10,001
10,001
10,001
10,001
Each ordinary share carries one vote and is entitled to participate pari passu with other ordinary shares in any dividend or capital distribution.
14
Profit and loss reserves
Profit and loss reserves include all current and prior period retained profits and losses.
15
Operating lease commitments
Lessee
At the reporting end date the company had outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases, which fall due as follows:
2023
2022
£
£
Within one year
731,001
733,709
Between two and five years
2,851,254
2,859,504
In over five years
4,771,203
5,481,954
8,353,458
9,075,167
16
Ultimate controlling party
The company is a wholly owned subsidiary of D.C. Thomson & Company Limited, a company incorporated in Great Britain and registered in Scotland.
There is no individual controlling party of D.C. Thomson & Company Limited.
2023-03-312022-04-01falseCCH SoftwareCCH Accounts Production 2023.100CHW ThomsonDHE ThomsonS EvansSC0152562022-04-012023-03-31SC015256bus:Director12022-04-012023-03-31SC015256bus:Director22022-04-012023-03-31SC015256bus:CompanySecretary12022-04-012023-03-31SC015256bus:RegisteredOffice2022-04-012023-03-31SC015256bus:Agent12022-04-012023-03-31SC0152562023-03-31SC0152562021-04-012022-03-31SC015256core:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses2021-04-012022-03-31SC015256core:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses2022-04-012023-03-31SC0152562022-03-31SC015256core:LandBuildingscore:LeasedAssetsHeldAsLessee2023-03-31SC015256core:PlantMachinery2023-03-31SC015256core:FurnitureFittings2023-03-31SC015256core:ComputerEquipment2023-03-31SC015256core:MotorVehicles2023-03-31SC015256core:LandBuildingscore:LeasedAssetsHeldAsLessee2022-03-31SC015256core:PlantMachinery2022-03-31SC015256core:FurnitureFittings2022-03-31SC015256core:ComputerEquipment2022-03-31SC015256core:MotorVehicles2022-03-31SC015256core:CurrentFinancialInstrumentscore:WithinOneYear2023-03-31SC015256core:CurrentFinancialInstrumentscore:WithinOneYear2022-03-31SC015256core:CurrentFinancialInstruments2023-03-31SC015256core:CurrentFinancialInstruments2022-03-31SC015256core:ShareCapital2023-03-31SC015256core:ShareCapital2022-03-31SC015256core:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses2023-03-31SC015256core:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses2022-03-31SC015256core:ShareCapital2021-03-31SC015256core:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses2021-03-31SC0152562021-03-31SC015256core:LandBuildingscore:LeasedAssetsHeldAsLessee2022-04-012023-03-31SC015256core:PlantMachinery2022-04-012023-03-31SC015256core:FurnitureFittings2022-04-012023-03-31SC015256core:ComputerEquipment2022-04-012023-03-31SC015256core:MotorVehicles2022-04-012023-03-31SC015256core:UKTax2022-04-012023-03-31SC015256core:UKTax2021-04-012022-03-31SC01525612022-04-012023-03-31SC01525612021-04-012022-03-31SC01525622022-04-012023-03-31SC01525622021-04-012022-03-31SC015256core:LandBuildingscore:LeasedAssetsHeldAsLessee2022-03-31SC015256core:PlantMachinery2022-03-31SC015256core:FurnitureFittings2022-03-31SC015256core:ComputerEquipment2022-03-31SC015256core:MotorVehicles2022-03-31SC0152562022-03-31SC015256core:WithinOneYear2023-03-31SC015256core:WithinOneYear2022-03-31SC015256core:BetweenTwoFiveYears2023-03-31SC015256core:BetweenTwoFiveYears2022-03-31SC015256core:MoreThanFiveYears2023-03-31SC015256core:MoreThanFiveYears2022-03-31SC015256bus:PrivateLimitedCompanyLtd2022-04-012023-03-31SC015256bus:FRS1022022-04-012023-03-31SC015256bus:Audited2022-04-012023-03-31SC015256bus:FullAccounts2022-04-012023-03-31xbrli:purexbrli:sharesiso4217:GBP