TIDMRLE

RNS Number : 0753B

Real Estate Investors PLC

29 September 2022

Real Estate Investors Plc

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

Half Year Results

For the six months ended 30 June 2022

STRONG ASSET SALES, REDUCED DEBT AND IMPROVING OCCUPANCY

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 2022 ("H1 2022").

FINANCIAL

-- 11 assets sold totalling GBP5.7 million (before costs), an aggregate uplift of 27.9% above year end book value, plus post period disposals of GBP4.5 million (at near book value) - total disposals year to date GBP10.2 million. Additional significant pipeline sales in legals

-- Profit before tax of GBP8.3 million (H1 2021: GBP9 million profit) includes GBP3.1 million gain on property revaluations (H1 2021: GBP3.3 million gain), GBP1 million profit on sale of investment property (H1 2021: GBP1.2 million profit) and GBP1.2 million surplus on hedge valuation (H1 2021: GBP716,000 surplus)

   --      EPRA** NTA per share of 61p (FY 2021: 58.8p) 
   --      Revenue of GBP7.2 million (H1 2021: GBP7.8 million) predominantly reduced due to disposals 
   --      Underlying profit before tax* of GBP2.9 million (H1 2021: GBP3.8 million) 
   --      EPRA** EPS of 1.64p (H1 2021: 2.1p) 

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

OPERATIONAL

-- Strong rent collection for H1 2022 of 99.36% (adjusted for monthly and deferred agreements) (H1 2021: 98.53%)

-- GBP190.2 million gross portfolio valuation (after asset disposals) (FY 2021: GBP190.8 million)

-- On a like for like basis the portfolio valuation has improved by 2% on 31 December 2021 valuation to GBP187.9 million

   --      Completed 56 lease events (including 7 lease renewals) 
   --      WAULT*** of 4.97 years to break/6.53 years to expiry (FY 2021: 5.03/6.76 years) 

-- Contracted rental income of GBP14 million p.a. (H1 2021: GBP14.7 million p.a.) with reduction due to known lease events and portfolio disposals in line with strategy

-- Occupancy levels at 85.88% (FY 2021: 85.75%), increased to 86.47% post period, with the potential to rise further

BANKING

   --      Disposal proceeds used to pay down GBP5.7 million of debt in H1 2022 including AIB facility 
   --      Total net debt now GBP75.5 million (FY 2021: GBP79.6 million) 

-- As at 30 June 2022, hedge facility has improved by GBP1.2 million for half year to 30 June 2022 and has improved by a further GBP600,000 as at 1 September 2022

   --      95.2% of Company debt fixed with a weighted average fixed debt duration of 2.3 years 
   --      Average cost of debt 3.5% (FY 2021: 3.5%) 

-- 40.2% Loan to Value (net of cash) (FY 2021: 42.2%) (management target LTV net of cash 40% or below)

   --      GBP8.3 million cash at bank 

POST PERIOD ACTIVITY

   --      Total sales since period end of GBP4.5 million 
   --      Additional significant pipeline sales in legals 
   --      Contracted rental income now GBP13.7 million (allowing for sales) 

-- Completed further 28 lease events including 4 lease renewals, 6 break removals and 11 lettings in legals, which have the potential to improve occupancy to 89.70%

   --      Additional GBP2.5 million of debt repaid since period end 

Paul Bassi, Chief Executive, commented:

"H1 2022 was a stable period after the challenging years of Brexit and Covid. Improving occupier demand and sales to a strong private investor market and overseas buyers will provide the foundation for rising valuations and improved rental income and allow us to execute our strategy, whilst remaining open to any sector consolidation opportunities.

We are mindful of current recessionary concerns, inflation and rising interest rates. Whilst we are not immune to the effects of economic downturns, we are well insulated with fixed and reduced debt, lower LTV, a diverse occupier base plus a healthy WAULT with growing levels of cash to capitalise on any market opportunities. Post period lettings will also add to our revenues going forward, plus the potential for further capital value appreciation.

We remain focused on delivering maximum value to our shareholders and subject to the ongoing success of the disposals programme and market conditions, in particular the impact of economic headwinds on the real estate sector and with due consideration being given to any downturn, the Board will consider how best to allocate surplus capital including a capital return to our shareholders. Alternatively, if the environment for acquisitions changes markedly by the year end and opportunities offering significant value start to arise, then we may look to make opportunistic acquisitions where there is scope to capture material upside through asset management."

FINANCIAL & OPERATIONAL RESULTS

 
                              30 June 2022     30 June 2021 
Revenue                       GBP7.2 million   GBP7.8 million 
                              ---------------  --------------- 
Underlying profit before      GBP2.9 million   GBP3.8 million 
 tax* 
                              ---------------  --------------- 
Contracted rental income      GBP14.0 million  GBP14.7 million 
                              ---------------  --------------- 
EPRA EPS**                    1.64p            2.13p 
                              ---------------  --------------- 
Pre-tax profit                GBP8.3 million   GBP9 million 
                              ---------------  --------------- 
Dividend per share            1.625p           1.5p 
                              ---------------  --------------- 
Average cost of debt          3.5%             3.4% 
                              ---------------  --------------- 
Like for like rental income   GBP14.0 million  GBP13.9 million 
                              ---------------  --------------- 
 
 
                          30 June 2022      31 December 2021 
Gross property assets     GBP190.2 million  GBP190.8 million 
                          ----------------  ---------------- 
EPRA NTA per share**      61.0p             58.8p 
                          ----------------  ---------------- 
Like for like capital     GBP128.24 psf     GBP125.67 psf 
 value psf 
                          ----------------  ---------------- 
Like for like valuation   GBP187.9 million  GBP184.1 million 
                          ----------------  ---------------- 
Tenants                   239               256 
                          ----------------  ---------------- 
WAULT to break***         4.97 years        5.03 years 
                          ----------------  ---------------- 
Total ownership (sq ft)   1.47 million      1.5 million sq 
                           sq ft             ft 
                          ----------------  ---------------- 
Net assets                GBP110.5 million  GBP105 million 
                          ----------------  ---------------- 
Loan to value             44.6%             47.4% 
                          ----------------  ---------------- 
Loan to value (net of 
 cash)                    40.2%             42.2% 
                          ----------------  ---------------- 
 

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 

Certain of the information contained within this announcement is deemed by the Company to constitute inside information as stipulated under the UK version of the EU Market Abuse Regulation (2014/596) which is part of UK law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, as amended and supplemented from time to time.

Enquiries:

 
Real Estate Investors Plc 
 Paul Bassi/Marcus Daly                     +44 (0)121 212 3446 
 
  Cenkos Securities (Nominated Adviser) 
  Katy Birkin/Ben Jeynes                    +44 (0)20 7397 8900 
 
  Liberum (Broker) 
  Jamie Richards/William King               +44 (0)20 3100 2000 
 
  Novella Communications 
  Tim Robertson/Safia Colebrook             +44 (0)20 3151 7008 
 

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 covered dividend policy. Further information on the Company can be found at www.reiplc.com .

CHAIRMAN & CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S STATEMENT

In H1 2022, the Company has seen an increase in NTA per share of 3.7% and reports pre-tax profits of GBP8.3 million. The cash inflow has seen LTV reduce to 40.2% in line with management's objectives. The lettings and disposals pipelines are strong and the Board anticipates further increases in NAV by the year end should these events crystallise.

The portfolio continues to deliver strong rent collection levels with overall collection for the period standing at 99.36% (adjusted for monthly and deferred agreements). Current quarter (June - September) rent collection so far is 99.86%.

During H1 2022, we took advantage of a particularly strong private investor market, disposing of 11 assets totalling GBP5.7 million (an aggregate uplift of 27.9% on December 2021 valuations). Since the period end, we have disposed of a further GBP4.5 million of assets (at near book value) totalling GBP10.2 million for 2022 year to date and have a strong pipeline of disposals in legals which reflects the difference between market pricing and NAV valuations and demonstrating the underlying value of our diversified portfolio.

In line with management's intention to operate the portfolio with prudent gearing levels, disposal proceeds were used to pay down GBP5.7 million of debt in H1 2022. Subsequently, our LTV (net of cash) has reduced to 40.2%. Our average cost of debt has remained at 3.5% with 95.2% of the Company's debt now fixed (as at 30 June 2022) with a weighted average fixed debt term of 2.3 years. We are mindful of current recessionary concerns, inflation and rising interest rates. Whilst we are not immune to the effects of economic downturns, we are well insulated with fixed and reduced debt, improved LTV, diverse occupier base, a healthy WAULT and growing cash balances to capitalise on any market opportunities.

A more normalised marketplace paved the way for occupiers to make decisions and this confidence led to significantly increased leasing activity during the period. This activity has continued into H2 2022 and enquiries from occupiers is reflected in lettings on our void space totalling GBP90,701 p.a., plus pipeline lettings in solicitors' hands totalling GBP685,000 p.a. Subject to market conditions, this will potentially drive further portfolio capital values, contributing to a rise in our NAV and rental income, supporting our covered dividend policy and reducing our gearing further.

Reflecting the improved occupier activity, our asset management team completed 56 lease events, leading to a WAULT of 4.97 years to break and 6.53 years to expiry.

Occupancy as at 30 June 2022 was 85.88% (FY 2021: 85.75%) and is stable despite the sales of fully let assets. Since the period end, occupancy has risen to 86.47%. Contracted rental income sits at GBP14 million p.a. (FY 2021 GBP14.3 million p.a.).

Taking into account the disposals in H1 2022, the portfolio's property assets have increased by 2% to GBP187.9 million (on a like for like basis) and we are therefore pleased to report an increase in our EPRA NTA per share to 61p (FY 2021: 58.8p) up 3.7%. These valuations do not reflect the post period lettings upside potential.

As a result of sales and known voids, our revenue has reduced in the short term to GBP7.2 million (H1 2021: GBP7.8 million) as we achieve debt reduction and cash generation with underlying profit before tax to GBP2.9 million (H1 2021: GBP3.8 million). As at 1 July 2022, the hedge facility has improved by GBP1.2 million and has improved by a further GBP600,000 as at 1 September 2022. The Board announces a fully covered quarterly dividend for Q2 2022 of 0.8125p per share (Q2 2021: 0.75p per share) to reflect the operational performance of the business in H1 2022.

The region enjoyed a very successful 2022 Commonwealth Games, which launched Birmingham onto the global stage and has positively driven investor and economic activity. The region has been further boosted by the Chancellor's Growth Plan announcement detailing the inclusion of the West Midlands in the 38 local combined authorities that will benefit from 'investment zones'. These zones promise to offer generous, targeted and time-limited tax cuts for businesses, backing them to increase productivity and create new jobs, liberalised planning rules and reforms to increase the speed of delivering development. This is expected to further encourage and improve demand from investors and occupiers.

REI continues to benefit from its locality and expects both investor and occupier demand to remain positive into the foreseeable future.

CORPORATE STRATEGY

Management continues to remain focused on delivering maximum value to our shareholders. As stated in our July trading update, private investor demand has remained high and we have taken advantage of this by disposing of assets at an aggregate value above NAV, and we will continue to make further opportunistic sales.

The disposal proceeds will be used to reduce debt and, subject to the ongoing success of the disposals programme and market conditions, in particular the impact of economic headwinds on the real estate sector and with due consideration being given to any downturn, the Board will consider how best to utilise excess capital, including a return of capital to shareholders. Alternatively, if the environment for acquisitions changes markedly by the year end and opportunities offering significant value start to arise, then we may look to make opportunistic acquisitions where there is scope to capture material upside through asset management. The Board evaluates the relative merits of these options on an ongoing basis. The quantum of any return of capital will be set to ensure that we maintain a prudent loan-to-value ratio and will be subject to market conditions.

In the meantime, we continue to be alert to market consolidation within the real estate sector. Management remains open to evaluating any corporate transaction that is in the best interests of shareholders.

STRONG PRIVATE INVESTOR MARKETPLACE

We have successfully disposed of GBP5.7 million of assets during the period at an aggregate uplift of 27.9% above the 31 December 2021 valuation. The income associated with these disposed assets is GBP424,900 per annum. Mindful of this demand, we have continued to make sales and can confirm post period disposals as follows:

   --      Completed sales of GBP4.5 million 
   --      Significant pipeline of sales in legals 

No acquisitions were made during H1 2022 due to the lack of suitably priced assets. Management will continue to monitor the market place for attractive acquisition opportunities.

FINANCE & BANKING

The business remains multi-banked with debt spread across 4 lenders.

Following the proactive decision in 2021 to take advantage of a low interest rate environment, 95.2% of the Company's debt is now fixed with an average weighted fixed debt term of 2.3 years and an average cost of debt of 3.5%.

Our hedge facility has improved by GBP1.2 million for the half year to 30 June 2022 and has recovered by a further GBP600,000 as at 1 September 2022. REI has seen a material fall in its swap liability position. As at 31 December 2021, the swap liability position was GBP2.1 million. The Company reports that as at 30 June 2022, the unaudited swap liability position had fallen to GBP0.9 million and that as at 31 August 2022, the unaudited liability had fallen further to GBP0.3 million.

During the period, GBP5.7 million of debt was repaid using the proceeds from portfolio disposals with a further GBP2.5 million repaid since 30 June 2022. Debt repayment from the proceeds of disposals, combined with a gain in the Company's like-for-like portfolio valuations had supported a reduction in the Company's loan to value to 40.2% (net of cash). This is in line with the Company's strategy and management's objective to operate the business with sensible gearing levels.

The Group has total drawn down debt of GBP83.8 million (FY 2021: GBP89.4 million) and all banking covenants (which are a combination of both the measurement of LTV against asset value and interest cover against rental income) continue to be met with headroom available and the ability to correct through substitute security or cash deposits and reduction. The Group has GBP8.3 million cash at bank.

Management remains committed to a covered dividend policy.

LETTINGS/ASSET MANAGEMENT UPDATE

As renewed occupier confidence gathered pace in 2022, demand increased leading to 56 lease events being completed, including 7 lease renewals, generating GBP365,000 p.a. of new rental income, recovering the majority of income lost due to sales during the period. In particular, we have seen office demand improving, the sector had previously dominated our voids during and since Covid.

As a result of asset management activity in H1 2022 our WAULT was 4.97 years to break and 6.53 years to expiry (FY 2021: 5.03 years to break and 6.76 years to expiry).

Hotel Income Update

Our hotel in West Bromwich, previously let to Premier Inn, was re-let to Vine Hotels on a new 15-year lease at GBP300,000 p.a. (above external valuer ERV level at time of letting), with the intention of operating a Best Western hotel. No rent-free incentives were given, but the first 3 years are a profit share. We are pleased to say that Vine secured a rolling annual letting at 100% occupancy that has provided REI with an income in excess of GBP300,000 p.a.

Post Period Activity

Since the period end, we have:

   --      Completed a further 3 lettings, generating GBP90,701 p.a. income 

-- We also have approximately GBP685,000 p.a. of lettings in pipeline legals, which if completed would translate into improved occupancy to 89.70% and enhanced contracted rental income to GBP14.3 million p.a.

We anticipate further occupancy improvement in the next few months which will potentially lead to further capital value improvement as we secure lettings in line with our ERVs with improved lease lengths.

These new lettings and the related valuation gain is not accounted for in our H1 valuation.

During 2022 to date, new tenants within the portfolio include; Cityfibre Holdings and King & Moffat UK Ltd.

Portfolio Mix

The current sector weightings are:

 
 Sector                                                  GBP per annum   % by income 
 Office                                                  5,039,442       36.03 
                                                        --------------  ------------ 
 Traditional Retail                                      2,457,794       17.57 
                                                        --------------  ------------ 
 Discount Retail - Poundland/B&M etc                     1,895,350       13.55 
                                                        --------------  ------------ 
 Other - Hotels (Travelodge), Leisure (The Gym 
  Group, Luda Bingo), Car parking, AST                   1,641,784       11.74 
                                                        --------------  ------------ 
 Medical and Pharmaceutical - Boots/Holland & Barrett 
  etc                                                    1,066,599       7.63 
                                                        --------------  ------------ 
 Restaurant/Bar/Coffee - Costa Coffee, Loungers 
  etc                                                    793,250         5.67 
                                                        --------------  ------------ 
 Food Stores - M&S, Aldi, Co-op, Iceland etc             585,690         4.19 
                                                        --------------  ------------ 
 Financial/Licences/Agency - Lloyds TSB, Santander 
  UK Plc, Bank of Scotland etc                           507,000         3.62 
                                                        --------------  ------------ 
 Total                                                   13,986,909      100.00 
                                                        --------------  ------------ 
 

Portfolio Summary

 
                     Value (GBPm)      Area        Contracted      ERV (GBP)       NIY     RY      Occupancy 
                                        (sq ft)     Rent (GBP)                      (%)     (%)     (%) 
 Central 
  Birmingham         GBP24,935,000     101,477     GBP1,406,702    GBP1,824,650    5.29%   6.87%   80.17% 
                    ----------------  ----------  --------------  --------------  ------  ------  ---------- 
 Other Birmingham    GBP24,215,000     172,483     GBP2,012,186    GBP1,994,005    7.80%   7.73%   89.63% 
                    ----------------  ----------  --------------  --------------  ------  ------  ---------- 
 West Midlands       GBP72,935,000     636,671     GBP5,407,474    GBP6,473,460    6.96%   8.33%   82.68% 
                    ----------------  ----------  --------------  --------------  ------  ------  ---------- 
 Other Midlands      GBP65,790,000     554,379     GBP5,160,547    GBP5,880,040    7.36%   8.39%   89.42% 
                    ----------------  ----------  --------------  --------------  ------  ------  ---------- 
 Other Locations     -                 -           -               -               -       -       - 
                    ----------------  ----------  --------------  --------------  ------  ------  ---------- 
 Land*               GBP2,387,320      -           -               - 
                    ----------------  ----------  --------------  --------------  ------  ------  ---------- 
 Total               GBP190,262,320    1,465,010   GBP13,986,909   GBP16,172,155   6.90%   7.98%   85.88% 
                    ----------------  ----------  --------------  --------------  ------  ------  ---------- 
 

* Our land holdings are excluded from the yield calculations.

ENVIRONMENTAL SOCIAL AND GOVERNANCE

We remain committed to acting responsibly and operating a sustainable business. Our EPC programme across the portfolio is progressing in line with the Company's ESG strategy to ensure that the business is compliant with regulations in April 2023 when all assets require an EPC rating of 'E' or above. Currently only 0.24% of the portfolio is below an 'E' (previously reported figure in March 2022 was 0.84%). Some of our previously non-compliant assets have been/are being sold.

We intend to expand on our ESG reporting in our full year results and commit to doing so annually.

DIVID

The Board remains committed to paying a covered dividend, throughout the period of our sales programme, subject to business performance. In line with this commitment and to recognise the operational stability of the business, the Board is pleased to announce a Q2 2022 fully covered dividend of 0.8125p reflecting a yield of 9.7% based on a mid-market opening price of 33.50p on 28 September 2022.

The proposed timetable for the dividend, which will be paid as an ordinary dividend, is as follows:

 
 Ex-dividend date:        6 October 2022 
 Record date:             7 October 2022 
                         ---------------- 
 Dividend payment date:   28 October 2022 
                         ---------------- 
 

OUTLOOK

With a strong investor and occupier market evidenced by GBP10.2 million disposals year to date and current pipeline lettings of GBP685,000 p.a. the second half of 2022 has started on a promising note. We will continue to capitalise on market conditions and dispose of assets on an opportunistic basis and will utilise proceeds from disposals to pay down debt and execute our stated strategy. We have the potential to secure valuation gains, through new lettings on our void space and further improve the NAV.

The business is well insulated from rising rates due to 95.2% fixed debt with a weighted average fixed debt term of 2.3 years, sensible gearing levels and healthy WAULT and our portfolio has the resilience to withstand economic pressure as demonstrated by our ability to cope with Brexit, Covid and the financial crisis.

Subject to further disposals in H2 2022 and ongoing market conditions, in particular the impact of economic headwinds on the real estate sector and with due consideration being given to any downturn, the Board will consider how best to allocate surplus capital including a capital return to our shareholders. Alternatively, if the environment for acquisitions changes markedly by the year end and opportunities offering significant value start to arise, then we may look to make opportunistic acquisitions where there is scope to capture material upside through asset management.

In the meantime, we continue to be alert to market consolidation within the real estate sector. Management remains open to evaluating any corporate transaction that is in the best interests of shareholders.

OUR STAKEHOLDERS

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

William Wyatt Paul Bassi CBE D.UNIV

Chairman Chief Executive

28 September 2022 28 September 2022

 
 
 
  CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF 
  COMPREHENSIVE INCOME 
 For the 6 months ended 30 
  June 2022 
 
                                                Six months     Six months 
                                                        to             to                       Year ended 
                                                                                               31 December 
                                              30 June 2022   30 June 2021                             2021 
                                               (Unaudited)    (Unaudited)                        (Audited) 
                                       Note        GBP'000        GBP'000                          GBP'000 
 
 Revenue                                             7,165          7,782                           15,971 
 
 Cost of sales                                     (1,170)          (836)                          (3,329) 
                                             -------------  -------------  ------------------------------- 
 
 Gross profit                                        5,995          6,946                           12,642 
 
 Administrative expenses                           (1,483)        (1,488)                          (3,045) 
 Surplus on sale of investment 
  properties                                         1,001          1,157                            1,177 
 Change in fair value of investment 
  properties                                         3,149          3,331                            4,951 
                                             -------------  -------------  ------------------------------- 
 
 Profit from operations                              8,662          9,946                           15,725 
 
 Finance income                                         26              1                               46 
 Finance costs                                     (1,600)        (1,634)                          (3,235) 
 Profit on financial liabilities 
  held at fair value                                 1,238            716                            1,388 
                                             -------------  -------------  ------------------------------- 
 
 Profit on ordinary activities 
  before taxation                                    8,326          9,029                           13,924 
 
 Income tax charge                                       -              -                                - 
                                             -------------  -------------  ------------------------------- 
 
 Net profit after taxation 
  and total comprehensive income                     8,326          9,029                           13,924 
                                             -------------  -------------  ------------------------------- 
 
 Basic earnings per share                 6          4.64p           5.0p                            7.76p 
                                             -------------  -------------  ------------------------------- 
 Diluted earnings per share               6          4.56p           4.9p                            7.64p 
                                             -------------  -------------  ------------------------------- 
 EPRA earnings per share                  6          1.64p           2.1p                            3.67p 
                                             -------------  -------------  ------------------------------- 
 
 
 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES 
  IN EQUITY 
 for the 6 months ended 30 June 2022 
 
 
                                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 2020           17,938              51,721          749        609     26,657    97,674 
 
 Share based payment                -                   -            -         75          -        75 
 Dividends - final 2020             -                   -            -          -    (2,500)   (2,500) 
 Dividends - interim 
  2021                              -                   -            -          -    (1,250)   (1,250) 
                             --------  ------------------  -----------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
 Transactions with owners           -                   -            -         75    (3,750)   (3,675) 
                             --------  ------------------  -----------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
 
 Profit for the period 
  and total comprehensive 
  income                            -                   -            -          -      9,029     9,029 
 
 At 30 June 2021               17,938              51,721          749        684     31,936   103,028 
 
 Share based payment                -                   -            -         75          -        75 
 Dividends - interim 
  2021                              -                   -            -          -    (2,976)   (2,976) 
                             --------  ------------------  -----------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
 Transactions with owners           -                   -            -         75    (2,976)   (2,901) 
                             --------  ------------------  -----------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
  Profit for the period 
   and total comprehensive 
   income                           -                   -            -          -      4,895     4,895 
 
 
 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 
                             ========  ==================  ===========  =========  =========  ======== 
 
 
 
 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL 
  POSITION 
 as at 30 June 2022 
                                                                                            31 December 
                                           30 June 2022                      30 June 2021          2021 
                                            (Unaudited)                       (Unaudited)     (Audited) 
                                   Note         GBP'000                           GBP'000       GBP'000 
 
 Assets 
 Non-current assets 
 Investment properties               5          187,875                           192,813       188,485 
 Property, plant and 
  equipment                                           4                                 3             4 
 
                                                187,879                           192,816       188,489 
                                          -------------  --------------------------------  ------------ 
 
 Current assets 
 Inventories                                      2,387                             2,380         2,384 
 Trade and other receivables                      3,757                             4,798         3,588 
 Cash and cash equivalents                        8,268                             9,085         9,836 
 
                                                 14,412                            16,263        15,808 
                                          -------------  --------------------------------  ------------ 
 
 Total assets                                   202,291                           209,079       204,297 
                                          =============  ================================  ============ 
 
 Liabilities 
 Current liabilities 
 Bank loans                                         379                             3,979         2,479 
 Trade and other payables                         7,078                             7,183         7,685 
                                                  7,457                            11,162        10,164 
                                          -------------  --------------------------------  ------------ 
 
 Non-current liabilities 
 Bank loans                                      83,418                            92,071        86,965 
 Derivative financial 
  liabilities                                       908                             2,818         2,146 
 
                                                 84,326                            94,889        89,111 
                                          -------------  --------------------------------  ------------ 
 
 Total liabilities                               91,783                           106,051        99,275 
                                          =============  ================================  ============ 
 
 Net assets                                     110,508                           103,028       105,022 
                                          =============  ================================  ============ 
 
 Equity 
 Ordinary share capital                          17,938                            17,938        17,938 
 Share premium account                           51,721                            51,721        51,721 
 Capital redemption 
  reserve                                           749                               749           749 
 Other reserves                                     834                               684           759 
 Retained earnings                               39,266                            31,936        33,855 
                                          -------------  --------------------------------  ------------ 
 Total equity                                   110,508                           103,028       105,022 
                                          -------------  --------------------------------  ------------ 
 
 
 
 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASHFLOWS 
 for the 6 months ended 30 June 2022 
                                                   Six months         Six months 
                                                           to                 to                Year ended 
                                                      30 June                                  31 December 
                                                         2022       30 June 2021                      2021 
                                                  (Unaudited)        (Unaudited)                 (Audited) 
                                                      GBP'000            GBP'000                   GBP'000 
 Cashflows from operating activities 
 Profit after taxation                                  8,326              9,029                    13,924 
 
 Adjustments for: 
 Depreciation                                               1                  2                         2 
 Surplus on sale of investment 
  property                                            (1,001)            (1,157)                   (1,177) 
 Net valuation surplus                                (3,149)            (3,331)                   (4,951) 
 Share based payment                                       75                 75                       150 
 Finance income                                          (27)                (1)                      (46) 
 Finance costs                                          1,600              1,634                     3,235 
 Surplus on financial liabilities 
  held at fair value                                  (1,238)              (716)                   (1,388) 
 (Increase)/decrease in inventories                       (3)              1,416                     1,412 
 (Increase)/decrease in trade 
  and other receivables                                 (169)              (458)                       752 
 Decrease in trade and other 
  payables                                              (618)              (506)                     (100) 
 
                                                        3,797              5,987                    11,813 
                                         ====================  =================  ======================== 
 
 
 Cash flows from investing activities 
 Purchase of investment properties                      (723)              (228)                     (955) 
 Purchase of property, plant 
  and equipment                                           (1)                  -                       (2) 
 Proceeds from sale of property, 
  plant and equipment                                   5,483              9,423                    16,119 
 Interest received                                         27                  1                        46 
 
                                                        4,786              9,196                    15,208 
                                         ====================  =================  ======================== 
 
 Cash flow from financing activities 
 Interest paid                                        (1,600)            (1,634)                   (3,235) 
 Equity dividends paid                                (2,904)            (3,398)                   (6,278) 
 Repayment of bank loans                              (5,647)            (5,304)                  (11,910) 
 
                                                     (10,151)           (10,336)                  (21,423) 
                                         ====================  =================  ======================== 
 
 Net (decrease)/increase in cash 
  and cash equivalents                                (1,568)              4,847                     5,598 
 
 Cash and cash equivalents at 
  beginning of period                                   9,836              4,238                     4,238 
 Cash and cash equivalents at 
  end of period                                         8,268              9,085                     9,836 
                                         ====================  =================  ======================== 
 
 

NOTES TO THE INTERIM FINANCIAL INFORMATION

for the 6 months ended 30 June 2022

   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 2022 (including the comparatives for the year ended 31 December 2021 and the period ended 30 June 2021) was approved by the board of directors on 28 September 2022.

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 2021 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 2021 financial statements approved by the Board on 21 March 2022.

Some accounting pronouncements which have become effective from 1 January 2022 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 2020             197,520 
 
 Additions                                           228 
 
 Disposals                                       (8,266) 
 
 Revaluation                                       3,331 
                                       ----------------- 
 
 Carrying amount at 30 June 2021                 192,813 
 
 Additions                                           727 
 
 Disposals                                       (6,675) 
 
 Revaluation                                       1,620 
                                       ----------------- 
 
 Carrying amount at 31 December 2021             188,485 
 
 Additions                                           723 
 
 Disposals                                       (4,482) 
 
 Revaluation                                       3,149 
 
 
 Carrying amount at 30 June 2022                 187,875 
                                       ================= 
 
   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 2022                                  30 June 2021 
                             Earnings        Shares   Earnings per share   Earnings        Shares   Earnings per share 
                              GBP'000            No                    P    GBP'000            No                    P 
 
 Basic earnings per share       8,326   179,377,898                 4.64      9,029   179,377,898                 5.03 
 Fair value of investment 
  properties                  (3,149)                                       (3,331) 
 Profit on disposal of 
  investment properties       (1,001)                                       (1,157) 
 Change in fair value of 
  derivatives                 (1,238)                                         (716) 
 EPRA Earnings                  2,938   179,377,898                 1.64      3,825   179,377,898                 2.13 
                           ==========  ============  ===================  =========  ============  =================== 
 

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 2022 
 
                                                                                  EPRA NTA      EPRA NRV     EPRA NDV 
                                                                                   GBP'000       GBP'000       GBP'000 
 
 Net assets                                                                        110,508       110,508       110,508 
 Fair value of derivatives                                                             908           908             - 
 Real estate transfer tax                                                                -        13,676             - 
 EPRA NAV                                                                          111,416       125,092       110,508 
                                                                              ------------  ------------  ------------ 
 Number of ordinary shares issued for diluted and EPRA net assets per share    182,502,063   182,502,063   182,502,063 
 EPRA NAV per share                                                                  61.0p         68.5p         60.5p 
                                                                              ============  ============  ============ 
 

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 2021 
 
                                                                              EPRA NTA      EPRA NRV     EPRA NDV 
                                                                               GBP'000       GBP'000       GBP'000 
 
 Net assets                                                                    105,022       105,022       105,022 
 Fair value of derivatives                                                       2,146         2,146             - 
 Real estate transfer tax                                                            -        13,127             - 
---------------------------------------------------------------------- 
 EPRA NAV                                                                      107,168       120,295       105,022 
----------------------------------------------------------------------  --------------  ------------  ------------ 
 Number of ordinary shares issued for diluted and EPRA net assets per 
  share                                                                    182,261,263   182,261,263   182,261,263 
 EPRA NAV per share                                                              58.8p         66.0p         57.6p 
======================================================================  ==============  ============  ============ 
 
                                                                          30 JUNE 2022            31 DECEMBER 2021 
                                                                          No of Shares                No of Shares 
 
 Number of ordinary shares issued at end of period                         179,377,898                 179,377,898 
 
 Dilutive impact of options                                                  3,124,705                   2,883,365 
 
 Number of ordinary shares issued for diluted and EPRA net assets per 
  share                                                                    182,502,063                 182,261,263 
----------------------------------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------------------- 
 Net assets per ordinary share 
 Basic                                                                           61.6p                       58.5p 
 Diluted                                                                         60.5p                       57.6p 
 EPRA NTA                                                                        61.0p                       58.8p 
======================================================================  ==============  ========================== 
 
 

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