TIDMDTG
RNS Number : 1829T
Dart Group PLC
16 July 2015
DART GROUP PLC
PRELIMINARY UNAUDITED RESULTS FOR YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2015
Dart Group PLC, the Leisure Travel and Distribution &
Logistics group ("the Group"), announces its preliminary results
for the year ended 31 March 2015. These results are presented under
International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS").
Financial Highlights Year ended Year ended Change
31 March 31 March
2015 2014
(Unaudited) (Audited)
------------------------------------------- ------------- ------------ ----------
Group turnover GBP1,253.2m GBP1,120.2m +12%
------------------------------------------- ------------- ------------ ----------
Group operating profit (underlying(1) ) GBP50.6m GBP49.2m +3%
Operating profit margin (underlying(1) ) 4.0% 4.4% (0.4ppts)
------------------------------------------- ------------- ------------ ----------
Group operating profit GBP33.6m GBP49.2m (32%)
Operating profit margin 2.7% 4.4% (1.7ppts)
------------------------------------------- ------------- ------------ ----------
Profit before tax (underlying(1) ) GBP57.2m GBP42.1m +36%
Profit before tax GBP40.2m GBP42.1m (5%)
------------------------------------------- ------------- ------------ ----------
Basic earnings per share (underlying(1) ) 31.72p 24.68p +29%
Basic earnings per share 22.42p 24.68p (9%)
------------------------------------------- ------------- ------------ ----------
Proposed final dividend per share 2.25p 2.14p +5%
Resulting total dividend per share 3.00p 2.74p +9%
------------------------------------------- ------------- ------------ ----------
Table note 1: "Underlying" references throughout are stated
excluding separately disclosed items (see note 7)
* Group turnover increased 12% to GBP1,253.2m (2014:
GBP1,120.2m) whilst underlying Group operating profit increased 3%
to GBP50.6m (2014: GBP49.2m), reflecting improved trading and
continued investment in our Leisure Travel business.
* Underlying profit before tax grew 36% to GBP57.2m (2014: GBP42.1m).
* After accounting for an exceptional provision of GBP17.0m, in
relation to possible passenger compensation claims for historical
flight delays under Regulation (EC) No 261/2004, Group profit
before tax fell 5% to GBP40.2m (see note 7).
* In consideration of the Group's improved underlying trading
performance, the Board is recommending a final dividend 2.25p
(2014: 2.14p), bringing the total proposed dividend to 3.00p per
share for the year to 31 March 2015 (2014: 2.74p).
* Leisure Travel turnover growth of 14% to GBP1,101.5m (2014:
GBP967.0m) reflected an 8% increase in passenger sectors flown, in
line with increased seat capacity and included a 20% increase in
package holiday customers.
* Distribution & Logistics contributed GBP151.7m of turnover (2014: GBP153.2m).
* We are optimistic that the Group's financial performance for
the year to 31 March 2016 will exceed current market
expectations.
CHAIRMAN'S STATEMENT
I am pleased to report that the Group has seen a small
improvement in trading performance for the year ended 31 March
2015, as underlying operating profit increased by 3% to GBP50.6m
(2014: GBP49.2m). Underlying profit before tax has risen by 36% to
GBP57.2m (2014: GBP42.1m). However, after accounting for an
exceptional provision of GBP17.0m, in relation to possible
passenger compensation claims for historical flight delays under
Regulation (EC) No 261/2004, Group profit before tax, fell by 5% to
GBP40.2m (2014: GBP42.1m). Whilst underlying basic earnings per
share increased by 29% to 31.72p (2014: 24.68p), after accounting
for the exceptional provision, basic earnings per share reduced by
9% to 22.42p.
In consideration of the Group's improved underlying trading
performance, the Board is recommending a final dividend of 2.25p
per share (2014: 2.14p) which will bring the total proposed
dividend to 3.00p per share for the year to 31 March 2015 (2014:
2.74p), an increase of 9%. The final dividend, which is subject to
shareholder approval at the Company's Annual General Meeting on 3
September 2015, will be payable on 16 October 2015 to shareholders
on the register at the close of business on 11 September 2015.
The increase in underlying Group operating profit reflects
improved trading and continued investment in our Leisure Travel
business which combines both our package holiday (Jet2holidays) and
flight-only (Jet2.com) products. This was despite the slower
trading at the start of the financial year, as reported in our
Preliminary Results Announcement of 26 June 2014.
Our Leisure Travel business took a total of 3.0m departing
package holiday and flight-only customers to sun, city and ski
destinations during the year, an increase of 8%. The growing demand
for our package holiday product led to those customers making up
33% of the total (2014: 30%), resulting in both increased Leisure
Travel revenues and aircraft load factors. As a result, turnover in
our Leisure Travel business increased by 14% to GBP1,101.5m (2014:
GBP967.0m) whilst underlying operating profit increased by 3% to
GBP46.9m (2014: GBP45.6m).
Our Distribution & Logistics business, Fowler Welch,
achieved a profit before tax of GBP3.3m (2014: GBP3.3m) after
GBP0.4m of start up losses from its new joint venture at Teynham,
Kent, which commenced operation in May 2014, storing, ripening and
packing stone-fruit and exotic and organic fruits.
The Group generated net cash flow from operating activities of
GBP116.1m (2014: GBP130.8m) out of which capital expenditure of
GBP76.4m (2014: GBP83.5m) was incurred, primarily on long-term
maintenance spend on aircraft and their engines and the purchase of
two Boeing 737-800 aircraft for summer 2015 flying. The Group's
capital investment was funded by internally generated EBITDA.
As at 31 March 2015, the Group's cash balances and money market
deposits had increased by GBP39.1m (2014: GBP42.8m) to GBP302.8m
(2014: GBP263.7m) which included advance payments from Leisure
Travel customers of GBP318.7m (2014: GBP285.8m) in respect of their
future holidays and flights.
Leisure Travel
Our Leisure Travel business takes both our package holiday and
flight-only customers to high volume leisure destinations in the
Mediterranean, the Canary Islands and to European Leisure Cities.
We fly to 55 destination airports, serving 364 holiday resorts from
our 7 Northern UK departure bases. Our customer volumes allow us to
serve many destinations daily and others several times a week
during the spring, summer and autumn months, offering a great
choice of variable duration holidays at attractive prices. Whether
our customers have arranged their own accommodation, or buy a
complete package holiday from us, we recognise that this is one of
the most important family experiences of the year and we do our
best to ensure that we deliver a holiday that can be both eagerly
anticipated and fondly remembered.
The business has contractual relationships with over 2,400
hotels, committing to room allocations from as few as 4 beds a
night, to over 300. We often place substantial deposits to ensure
we have a dependable and competitive room offering in the most
attractive hotels. Our buying power ensures we have a wide range of
great value 2 and 3-star to 5-star hotel products for both families
on a budget and those wanting more pampering. We employ substantial
numbers of representatives in resort to look after our customers,
backed up by 24-hour customer helplines giving practical assistance
in the event of problems. Together with our airport-to-hotel coach
transfer services, everything is organised to make our customers'
holiday easy and carefree.
To support our package holidays growth, our commercial centre in
Leeds employs nearly 700 commercial, marketing, revenue, IT and
finance colleagues, including our 200+ strong call centre for sales
and customer support. Our package holiday business, especially,
gives us the opportunity to concentrate our efforts and enthusiasm
into delivering a product that delights our customers. A great
holiday experience engenders loyalty and many repeat bookings are
made shortly after our customers return.
In response to the recent tragic events in Tunisia, we organised
a rapid rescue operation to contact and repatriate nearly 700 of
our package holidaymakers, who wished to return to the UK. The
continuing tensions in Greece have also demanded our attention and
presence. Senior staff were on site in Tunisia and Greece within
hours of events unfolding, to ensure our customers' needs were met,
backed up by our Leeds based emergency response organisation and
teams. In this age of political and economic uncertainty more
consumers are becoming aware of the wider benefits of a package
holiday - where the tour operator has the responsibility for their
wellbeing.
During the year, our airline operation expanded the fleet to 59
aircraft for summer 15 flying (summer 14: 55 aircraft) with
commensurate increases in pilots, engineers and cabin crew. And, in
May 2014 we were delighted to inaugurate our new flight simulator
and training centre in Bradford. The centre provides a bespoke
training facility for those pilots, engineers and cabin crew and
will equip us with well trained colleagues as we continue to grow
over the coming years.
Jet2holidays is now the UK's third largest ATOL licensed package
holidays tour operator. Whilst our flight-only product remains very
important, we believe our growing package holiday business has
tremendous future potential. The package holiday is a very popular
product, among young and old and families alike. Organising
enjoyable and dependable holidays for our customers gives us the
opportunity to personally delight them and for us to reap
commensurate rewards in the future.
Distribution & Logistics
Our distribution business, Fowler Welch, is one of the UK's
leading providers of distribution and logistics services to the
food industry supply chain, serving retailers, processers, growers
and importers through its distribution network.
The business operates from eight prime UK distribution sites,
with major temperature-controlled operations in the key produce
growing and importing areas of Spalding in Lincolnshire, Teynham
and Paddock Wood in Kent, and Hilsea near Portsmouth. Ambient
(non-temperature-controlled) consolidation and distribution
services are provided at Desborough, Northamptonshire and at
Heywood near Bury, Greater Manchester. It also operates two
regional distribution sites at Washington, Tyne and Wear and at
Newton Abbot, Devon.
Fowler Welch has a strong and experienced management team and a
skilled workforce that prides itself on its high standards of
customer service, critical in an arena where "just in time" optimum
levels of on-shelf stock availability at retailers' stores are
essential to satisfy and retain supermarket customers and their
suppliers.
Increasingly, key customers are looking for creative, added
value innovation from their service providers that can help their
own supply chains to become more efficient. In May 2014, Fowler
Welch commenced a joint venture operation at its Teynham facility
in Kent, to provide a full range of fruit ripening and packing
services to the produce sector for locally grown and imported
fruits. The operation uses the latest technology and market-leading
grading, sorting and packing equipment to ensure that cost
efficient, high quality standards are achieved for its customers.
The packed product is then delivered through the Fowler Welch
distribution network. This extension of the range of services
available to Fowler Welch customers is a key strategic step.
We remain encouraged by the many business opportunities
available to Fowler Welch. Though the marketplace remains extremely
competitive, we believe that through its price-competitive,
operational expertise, its dedication to achieving high service
levels, and its ability to present customers with added value,
innovative solutions, the outlook for Fowler Welch is
encouraging.
Outlook
Both our Leisure Travel and Distribution & Logistics
businesses have got off to a good start to the new financial year,
with strong demand for holidays and distribution business wins.
Notwithstanding the tragedy in Tunisia and uncertainties in Greece,
we are optimistic that Group performance for the financial year to
31 March 2016 will exceed current market expectations. Looking
further ahead, we note the considerable increase in capacity
planned by several low cost airlines over the next few years. We
believe the continued expansion of our package holiday product,
together with the development of our directly contracted sun and
city hotel portfolio differentiates our Leisure Travel business,
giving us confidence for our continued profitable growth.
Philip Meeson
Chairman
16 July 2015
BUSINESS & FINANCIAL REVIEW
The Group's financial performance for the year to 31 March 2015
is reported in line with International Financial Reporting
Standards ("IFRS"), as adopted by the EU, which were effective at
31 March 2015.
Summary Income Statement
Unaudited Unaudited Unaudited Audited Change
2015 2015 2015 2014
Before Separately Total Total
separately disclosed
disclosed items
items
GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
------------------------------- ------------
Turnover 1,253.2 - 1,253.2 1,120.2 12%
Net operating expenses (1,202.6) (17.0) (1,219.6) (1,071.0) (14%)
------------------------------- ------------ ------------ ---------- ---------- -----------
Operating profit 50.6 (17.0) 33.6 49.2 (32%)
Share of loss in joint
ventures (0.4) - (0.4) - -
Net financing income 0.6 - 0.6 - -
Revaluation of derivative
hedges 1.6 - 1.6 (3.3) 148%
Revaluation of foreign
currency balances 4.8 - 4.8 (3.8) 226%
------------------------------- ------------ ------------ ---------- ---------- -----------
Net financing income/(costs) 7.0 - 7.0 (7.1) 199%
Group profit before tax 57.2 (17.0) 40.2 42.1 (5%)
Share of loss in joint
ventures 0.4 - 0.4 - -
Net financing income &
Revaluations (7.0) - (7.0) 7.1 (199%)
Depreciation 71.3 - 71.3 60.7 17%
------------------------------- ------------
EBITDA 121.9 (17.0) 104.9 109.9 (5%)
=============================== ============ ============ ========== ========== ===========
Operating profit margin 4.0% - 2.7% 4.4% (1.7ppts)
Group profit before tax
margin 4.6% - 3.2% 3.8% (0.6 ppts)
EBITDA margin 9.7% - 8.4% 9.8% (1.4 ppts)
------------------------------ ------------ ------------ ---------- ---------- -----------
A slower than anticipated start to the financial year in our
Leisure Travel business gave way to stronger consumer demand for
both our package holidays and flight-only products in the late
summer market, a momentum which continued through winter. As a
result, the business achieved increased volumes of customers plus a
small improvement in yields which contributed to the Group's 12%
increase in turnover to GBP1,253.2m (2014: GBP1,120.2m). The
Distribution & Logistics business experienced a reduction in
turnover of 1%.
In integrated approach to Leisure Travel revenue management, a
focus on operational efficiency and considered cost investment
ensured the Group delivered an improved underlying operating
profit, which grew by 3% to GBP50.6m (2014: GBP49.2m). Following a
Supreme Court ruling delivered on 31 October 2014, which refused
Jet2.com permission to appeal against the Court of Appeal's earlier
judgment in the case of Huzar v Jet2.com Limited, relating to
flight delay compensation under Regulation (EC) No 261/2004, the
Group made an exceptional provision of GBP17.0m which led to
operating profit falling by 32% to GBP33.6m.
Net financing income of GBP7.0m (2014: cost GBP7.1m) included
GBP1.6m in relation to mark-to-market adjustments on certain
ineffective derivative hedges and a positive GBP4.8m adjustment
owing to the revaluation of foreign currency balances held at year
end. These mark-to-market adjustments reflect the maturing of
certain hedges which, at the previous year end date, were deemed to
be surplus to requirements. This was due to a disparity between the
monthly phasing of those transactions and the Group's 2014/15 US
dollar and euro requirement being hedged. The foreign currency
revaluation principally relates to a US dollar surplus following a
decision to deliver summer 2014 airline capacity growth by leasing
aircraft, rather than the original intention of buying. This
surplus is expected to be utilised during the year ending 31 March
2016.
As a result, the Group achieved a statutory profit before tax of
GBP40.2m (2014: GBP42.1m). Underlying Group EBITDA increased by 11%
to GBP121.9m (2014: GBP109.9m).
The Group's effective tax rate of 18% (2014: 15%) was lower than
the headline rate of corporation tax of 21% as a consequence of
reductions made in relation to its decreasing deferred tax
liability. Underlying basic earnings per share increased by 29% to
31.72p (2014: 24.68p). However, after accounting for the
exceptional provision of GBP17.0m, overall basic earnings per share
reduced by 9% to 22.42p.
In consideration of the Group's improved underlying trading
performance, the Board is recommending a final dividend of 2.25p
per share (2014: 2.14p). On 20 November 2014 the Board declared an
interim dividend of 0.75p per share (2014: 0.60p), which, coupled
with the proposed final dividend, equates to a full year dividend
of 3.00p per share (2014: 2.74p).
Summary Cash Flow
Unaudited Audited Change
2015 2014
GBPm GBPm
----------------------------------- ---------- -------- -------
EBITDA 104.9 109.9 (5%)
Other P&L adjustments 0.1 0.4 (75%)
Movements in working capital 18.7 26.6 (30%)
Interest & taxes (7.6) (6.1) (25%)
----------------------------------- ---------- -------- -------
Net cash generated from operating
activities 116.1 130.8 (11%)
Purchase of property, plant &
equipment (76.4) (83.5) 9%
Other items (0.6) (4.5) 87%
----------------------------------- ----------
Increase in net cash and money
market deposits 39.1 42.8 (9%)
=================================== ========== ======== =======
The Group generated net cash flow from operating activities of
GBP116.1m (2014: GBP130.8m) out of which capital expenditure of
GBP76.4m (2014: GBP83.5m) was incurred. Capital expenditure as a %
of EBITDA fell to 73% (2014: 76%) as the Group invested in the
long-term maintenance of its aircraft and engines and acquired two
Boeing 737-800 aircraft for its summer 2015 flying programme.
The Group generated net cash inflows(a) of GBP39.1m in the year
(2014: GBP42.8m), resulting in a year end cash position, including
money market deposits, of GBP302.8m (2014: GBP263.7m). The Group
continues to be funded, in part, by payments received in advance of
travel from its Leisure Travel customers, which at the reporting
date amounted to GBP318.7m (2014: GBP285.8m).
Note (a): Cash flows are reported including the movement of
money market deposits (cash deposits with maturity of more than
three months from point of placement) to give readers an
understanding of total cash generation. The Consolidated Cash Flow
Statement reports net cash flow excluding these movements.
Of these customer advances, GBP97.5m (2014: GBP133.3m) was
considered restricted by the Group's merchant acquirers as
collateral against a proportion of forward bookings paid for by
credit or debit card. These balances become unrestricted once our
customers have travelled. The business also had GBP51.7m (2014:
GBP7.4m) of cash placed with various counterparties in the form of
margin calls to cover out-of-the-money hedge instruments, primarily
a result of the drop in the price of crude oil. The majority of
these out-of-the-money positions are anticipated to run off through
summer 2015 as the hedged instruments mature.
The Group is also required by the UK Civil Aviation Authority to
maintain certain levels of "available liquidity", which is defined
as free cash plus available undrawn banking facilities.
Summary Balance Sheet
Unaudited Audited
2015 2014 Change
GBPm GBPm
-------------------------------- ---------- -------- -------
Non-current assets 303.6 298.8 2%
Net current assets(b) 175.6 145.2 21%
Deferred revenue (580.3) (484.9) (20%)
Other liabilities (44.5) (41.2) (8%)
Cash and money market deposits 302.8 263.7 15%
-------------------------------- ---------- -------- -------
Total shareholders' equity 157.2 181.6 (13%)
================================ ========== ======== =======
Note (b): stated excluding cash and cash equivalents, money
market deposits and deferred revenue.
Total shareholders' equity reduced by GBP24.4m as profit after
tax of GBP32.8m (2014: GBP35.9m) was exceeded by adverse movements
in the cash flow hedging reserve, a result of the net
mark-to-market movements on jet fuel and currency forward
contracts.
Segmental Performance - Leisure Travel
The Group's Leisure Travel business which incorporates
Jet2holidays, our ATOL licensed package holidays operator and
Jet2.com, the North's leading leisure airline, concentrates on high
volume leisure destinations in the Mediterranean, the Canary
Islands and European Leisure Cities.
The business increased its departing customer numbers by 8% to
3.02m (2014: 2.81m). Of those, 1.00m (2014: 0.83m) chose our great
value package holiday product, a growth of 20%, with the remaining
2.02m (2014: 1.98m) choosing to enjoy a flight only. Our customers
continue to demand value and consistent quality, together with
excellent customer service and therefore, the growth in our package
holiday customers, to 33% of the total (2014: 30%), is particularly
pleasing.
An integrated approach to revenue and demand management between
the two products, plus the growing proportion of flying to the
Canary Islands and Eastern Mediterranean, contributed to an
improved load factor of 91.2% (2014: 91.0%); a 2% increase in net
ticket price per passenger to GBP79.87 (2014: GBP78.39); and a 3%
increase in the average price of a package holiday to GBP591 (2014:
GBP572). The continued development and refinement of the
Jet2holidays hotel products, ranging from 2-star self-catering
through to luxury 5-star all-inclusive accommodation, plus an
increasing number of people choosing 4 and 5-star packages,
resulted in improved gross margin per package holiday compared to
the prior year.
Non-ticket revenue per passenger, which is primarily
discretionary in nature, increased by 5% to GBP30.91 (2014:
GBP29.49). This revenue stream continues to be optimised through
our customer contact programme as we focus on pre-departure
(primarily hold bags and advanced seat assignment), in-flight
(pre-ordered meals, drinks, snacks, cosmetics and perfumes) and
ancillary products (car hire and travel insurance).
As a result, total Leisure Travel turnover grew by 14% to
GBP1,101.5m (2014: GBP967.0m) whilst underlying operating profit
grew 3% to GBP46.9m (2014: GBP45.6m).
Approximately 52% of our package holidays are sold online via
Jet2holidays.com, 17% of holiday bookings are made through our call
centre, based at our commercial centre in Leeds, and the balance
via high street and online travel agents, whilst our flight-only
seats are booked on the Jet2.com website. Technology and how the
customer uses it, is perpetually evolving, and our websites and
mobile applications are continuously developed and refined to
ensure that the search and booking experience is as smooth as
possible whether the customer uses a PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Increasingly, customers are looking to engage with the overall
brand and product experience rather than merely making a booking.
Recognising this, the business has invested in content management
systems which provide the customer with personalised content and
imagery from the moment they land on the website home page,
improving the overall customer experience, engagement and
ultimately, conversion.
A smooth customer journey and experience are paramount whichever
booking channel is chosen. Further investment has been made in our
call centre to both handle the increasing volume of customer calls
and to improve response times. Similarly, we are developing our
post booking information and assistance to customers, and have
bolstered our pre-travel services teams.
Sales through travel agents remains an important distribution
channel for the business, and our package holidays can be booked
through all major travel agent chains, key multiples, homeworker
companies and independent agents.
The delivery of great customer service is at the heart of our
brand values. To ensure that every employee understands this ethos,
the business has continued to invest in its all-employee engagement
programme "Take Me There", with each and every colleague receiving
training on the importance of delivering customer service
excellence at every point in our customers' journey.
During the year our leisure airline Jet2.com expanded its route
network, operating a total of 217 routes (2014: 205). We also
strengthened our cities product with the introduction of
Jet2CityBreaks - offering a packaged flight and hotel product in
leading European Leisure Cities. Being mindful of the weak demand
environment experienced in early summer 2014, Jet2.com has
tightened seat capacity on certain routes during early summer 2015;
peak summer capacity, however, remains unchanged. Consequently, the
airline will fly 239 routes to 55 destinations.
Sustained levels of investment in product, brand and customer
service excellence, plus the delivery of an attractive end-to-end
product engenders loyalty and repeat bookings and gives us the
greatest opportunity to retain and attract customers, both existing
and new. As a result, the business expects to see further growth in
customer numbers and revenues.
Leisure Travel Financials
Unaudited Unaudited Unaudited Unaudited Change
2015 2015 2015 2014
Before Separately Total Total
separately disclosed
disclosed items
items
GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
------------------------------- ------------
Turnover 1,101.5 - 1,101.5 967.0 14%
Net operating expenses (1,054.6) (17.0) (1,071.6) (921.4) (16%)
------------------------------- ------------ ------------ ---------- ---------- -------------
Operating profit 46.9 (17.0) 29.9 45.6 (34%)
Net financing income 0.6 - 0.6 0.3 100%
Revaluation of derivative
hedges 1.6 - 1.6 (3.3) 148%
Revaluation of foreign
currency balances 4.8 - 4.8 (3.8) 226%
------------------------------- ------------ ------------ ---------- ---------- -------------
Net financing income/(costs) 7.0 - 7.0 (6.8) 203%
Profit before tax 53.9 (17.0) 36.9 38.8 (5%)
Net financing income &
Revaluations (7.0) - (7.0) 6.8 (203%)
Depreciation 69.1 - 69.1 58.6 18%
------------------------------- ------------ ------------ ---------- ---------- -------------
EBITDA 116.0 (17.0) 99.0 104.2 (5%)
=============================== ============ ============ ========== ========== =============
Operating profit margin 4.3% - 2.7% 4.7% (2.0 ppts)
Profit before tax margin 4.9% - 3.3% 4.0% (0.7 ppts)
EBITDA margin 10.5% - 9.0% 10.8% (1.8 ppts)
------------------------------ ------------ ------------ ---------- ---------- -------------
Leisure Travel KPIs
2015 2014 Change
---------------------------------------------------------- ---------- ---------- -----------
Owned aircraft at 31 March 44 44 -
Aircraft on operating leases at 31 March 11 6 83%
Number of routes 217 205 6%
Leisure Travel sector seats available
(capacity) 6.63m 6.16m 8%
Leisure Travel passenger sectors flown 6.05m 5.61m 8%
Leisure Travel load factor 91.2% 91.0% 0.2 ppts
Flight-only passenger sectors flown 4.05m 3.95m 3%
Package holiday passenger sectors flown 2.00m 1.66m 20%
Package holiday customers 1.00m 0.83m 20%
Net ticket yield per passenger sector
(excl. taxes) GBP79.87 GBP78.39 2%
Average package holiday price GBP590.69 GBP571.53 3%
Non-ticket revenue per passenger sector GBP30.91 GBP29.49 5%
Average hedged price of fuel (US$ per
tonne) $922 $961 4%
Fuel requirement hedged for 2015/6 98% 99% (1 ppts)
Advance sales made as at 31 March GBP580.3m GBP484.9m 20%
---------------------------------------------------------- ---------- ---------- -----------
Segmental Performance - Distribution & Logistics
The Group's distribution business, Fowler Welch, is one of the
UK's leading logistics providers to the food industry supply chain,
serving retailers, processors, growers and importers across its
network of eight sites, strategically located to meet demand. A
full range of added value services is provided including storage,
case-level picking and packing and an award winning national
distribution network.
Revenues decreased by 1% to GBP151.7m (2014: GBP153.2m) as the
full year impact of closing its European operating base and a small
regional support hub in 2014, plus the effect of lower fuel prices
passed onto customers, were largely offset by new contract wins and
organic growth. Operationally, the business performed well,
handling seasonal volumes efficiently, though regulatory changes
resulted in an industry-wide driver shortage which led to increased
driver costs. These factors, in addition to considered cost
investment, resulted in operating profit increasing by 3% to
GBP3.7m (2014: GBP3.6m).
The Heywood Hub, Fowler Welch's 500,000 square foot ambient
(non-temperature-controlled) shared user storage and distribution
site located near Bury, Greater Manchester, increased revenues by
6% year-on-year, as it gained a number of new customers.
Spalding, our key distribution centre in the major growing
region of Lincolnshire, built revenues by 18% year-on-year despite
the fall in fuel prices. This was primarily due to the first full
year of a new contract with a Danish-owned pork product processor
for whom Fowler Welch provides a specialist distribution
service.
The regional distribution sites at Washington, Tyne and Wear and
at Newton Abbot, Devon provide direct store delivery services on
behalf of retailer distribution networks and combined, make
time-sensitive deliveries to over 100 stores every day.
The recently refurbished Hilsea depot, which is located near to
Portsmouth International Port, had a mixed year. New contract wins
and growth with existing customers underlined the strength of the
range of warehousing, consolidation and distribution services
offered, but these were negated by the loss and associated closure
costs of its Canary Islands tomatoes distribution contract. Further
consolidation and distribution opportunities have been secured for
the year ahead and these, together with the new contracts already
implemented, see the site well placed for 2015/16.
Fowler Welch's Kent operations, at its Teynham and Paddock Wood
distribution centres, sit in the heart of that county's fruit
growing areas and provide distribution services for this important
local industry and for businesses importing fruit and produce from
across the English Channel.
During the year, operations commenced at Integrated Service
Solutions ("ISS"), Fowler Welch's new joint venture, which stores,
ripens and packs stone-fruit, and exotic and organic fruits at
Teynham using the latest technology and market-leading grading,
sorting and packing equipment. Fowler Welch's share of post-tax
start-up losses of GBP0.4m was anticipated. The operation continues
to develop with volumes and throughput increasing and margins
encouraging, as the mix of product and the productivity of the
various packing lines improve. With volumes now committed for
2015/16, the operation is expected to generate a positive return in
the coming 12 months. Since the reporting date the business has
been granted planning approval to extend the Teynham site in order
to maximise ISS's and other opportunities. We expect this project
to be completed in the first half of 2016.
Continued focus on building a quality revenue pipeline and
developing creative added value services for its customers, remains
fundamental to Fowler Welch's growth strategy. In addition, further
opportunities to increase the efficiency of the Fowler Welch
distribution network are also being identified as it gains enhanced
operational visibility through Enterprise, the new distribution,
planning and transport operating system.
With its strong and committed team, a well positioned national
network of sites and the expertise and flexibility to operate
effectively in both the temperature-controlled (chill and produce)
and ambient arenas, Fowler Welch has a strong operational
foundation. The continued addition of better quality revenue
streams supplemented by added value, innovative supply services to
key customers, such as those recently implemented by ISS, means the
outlook for Fowler Welch is encouraging.
Distribution & Logistics Financials
Unaudited Audited Change
2015 2014
GBPm GBPm
------------------------------------- ---------- -------- ---------
Turnover 151.7 153.2 (1%)
Operating expenses (148.0) (149.6) 1%
------------------------------------- ---------- -------- ---------
Operating profit 3.7 3.6 3%
Share of loss in joint ventures (0.4) - -
Net financing costs - (0.3) -
-------------------------------------
Profit before tax 3.3 3.3 -
Share of loss in joint ventures 0.4 - -
Net financing costs - 0.3 -
Depreciation 2.2 2.1 5%
------------------------------------- ---------- -------- ---------
EBITDA 5.9 5.7 4%
===================================== ========== ======== =========
Operating profit margin 2.4% 2.3% 0.1 ppts
Profit before tax margin 2.2% 2.2% -
EBITDA margin 3.9% 3.7% 0.2 ppts
------------------------------------- ---------- -------- ---------
Distribution & Logistics KPIs
2015 2014 Change
-------------------------------------- -------- -------- -------
Warehouse space (square feet) 847,000 847,000 -
Number of tractor units in operation 467 450 4%
Number of trailer units in operation 655 640 2%
Miles per Gallon 9.2 8.9 3%
Annual fleet mileage 41.5m 42.6m (3%)
-------------------------------------- -------- -------- -------
Gary Brown
Group Chief Financial Officer
16 July 2015
For further information please contact:
Dart Group PLC Tel: 0113 239 7817
Philip Meeson, Group Chairman and Chief
Executive
Gary Brown, Group Chief Financial Officer
Smith & Williamson Corporate Finance Tel: 020 7131 4000
Limited
Nominated Adviser
David Jones
Canaccord Genuity - Joint Broker Tel: 020 7523 8000
Mark Whitmore
Arden Partners - Joint Broker Tel: 020 7614 5900
Christopher Hardie
Buchanan - Financial PR Tel: 020 7466 5000
Richard Oldworth
COnsolidated income statement
for the year ended 31 March 2015
Note Unaudited Audited
results for the results for
year ended the
31 March year ended
2015 31 March
2014
-------------------------- ---------------------------------------------- -------------------------
Results before Separately Total Total
separately disclosed
disclosed items
items
GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
-------------------------- ----------------- ----------- ---------- ----------
Turnover 3 1,253.2 - 1,253.2 1,120.2
Net operating expenses 4 (1,202.6) (17.0) (1,219.6) (1,071.0)
----------------------- ----------------- ----------- ---------- ----------
Operating profit 3 50.6 (17.0) 33.6 49.2
Share of loss in joint
ventures (0.4) - (0.4) -
Finance income 1.7 - 1.7 1.4
Finance costs (1.1) - (1.1) (1.4)
Revaluation of
derivative
hedges 1.6 - 1.6 (3.3)
Revaluation of foreign
currency balances 4.8 - 4.8 (3.8)
----------------------- ----------------- ----------- ---------- ----------
Net financing
income/(costs) 5 7.0 - 7.0 (7.1)
Profit before
taxation 57.2 (17.0) 40.2 42.1
Taxation (10.8) 3.4 (7.4) (6.2)
----------------------- ----------------- ----------- ---------- ----------
Profit for the year
(all attributable to
equity shareholders
of the parent) 46.4 (13.6) 32.8 35.9
======================= ================= =========== ========== ==========
Earnings per share
(9.30)
- basic 6 31.72 p p 22.42 p 24.68 p
(9.20)
- diluted 6 31.40 p p 22.20 p 24.28 p
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income
for the year ended 31 March 2015
Unaudited Audited
results for results for
the year the year
ended 31 ended 31
March 2015 March 2014
GBPm GBPm
Profit for the year 32.8 35.9
Effective portion of fair value movements
in cash flow hedges (98.7) (33.8)
Net change in fair value of effective
cash flow hedges transferred to profit 32.0 (16.9)
Taxation on components of other comprehensive
income 13.1 11.5
------------- -----------------
Other comprehensive income and expense
for the period, net of taxation (53.6) (39.2)
Total comprehensive income and expense
for the period (all attributable to
equity shareholders of the parent) (20.8) (3.3)
============= =================
Consolidated balance sheet
at 31 March 2015
Unaudited Audited
2015 2014
GBPm GBPm
Non-current assets
Goodwill 6.8 6.8
Property, plant and equipment 295.3 291.6
Derivative financial instruments 1.5 0.4
303.6 298.8
---------- ----------
Current assets
Inventories 2.0 3.1
Trade and other receivables 365.6 285.9
Derivative financial instruments 27.0 1.4
Money market deposits 65.5 52.5
Cash and cash equivalents 237.3 211.2
---------- ----------
697.4 554.1
---------- ----------
Total assets 1,001.0 852.9
---------- ----------
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables 85.3 107.0
Deferred revenue 579.6 484.5
Borrowings 0.8 0.8
Interest in joint ventures 0.4 -
Provisions 28.7 2.4
Derivative financial instruments 103.8 35.0
---------- ----------
798.6 629.7
---------- ----------
Non-current liabilities
Other non-current liabilities 0.5 10.3
Deferred revenue 0.7 0.4
Borrowings 8.2 9.0
Derivative financial instruments 25.1 2.2
Deferred tax liabilities 10.7 19.7
---------- ----------
45.2 41.6
Total liabilities 843.8 671.3
Net assets 157.2 181.6
========== ==========
Shareholders' equity
Share capital 1.8 1.8
Share premium 11.9 11.4
Cash flow hedging reserve (80.4) (26.8)
Retained earnings 223.9 195.2
Total shareholders' equity 157.2 181.6
========== ==========
consolidated cash flow statement
for the year ended 31 March 2015
Unaudited Audited
2015 2014
Cash flows from operating activities GBPm GBPm
Profit on ordinary activities before
taxation 40.2 42.1
Finance income (1.7) (1.4)
Finance costs 1.1 1.4
Revaluation of derivative hedges (1.6) 3.3
Revaluation of foreign currency balances (4.8) 3.8
Depreciation 71.3 60.7
Share of loss in joint ventures 0.4 -
Equity settled share based payments 0.1 0.4
Operating cash flows before movements in
working capital 105.0 110.3
Decrease / (increase) in inventories 1.1 (1.8)
Increase in trade and other receivables (79.4) (59.7)
(Decrease) / increase in trade and
other payables (24.7) 10.3
Increase in deferred revenue 95.4 77.5
Increase in provisions 26.3 0.3
Cash generated from operations 123.7 136.9
Interest received 1.7 1.4
Interest paid (1.1) (1.4)
Income taxes paid (8.2) (6.1)
Net cash from operating activities 116.1 130.8
---------- --------
Cash flows used in investing activities
Purchase of property, plant and equipment (76.4) (83.5)
Proceeds from sale of property, plant
and equipment - 0.2
Net increase in money market deposits (13.0) (22.5)
Net cash used in investing activities (89.4) (105.8)
---------- --------
Cash used in financing activities
Repayment of borrowings (0.8) (8.7)
New loans advanced - 10.0
Proceeds on issue of shares 0.5 0.7
Equity dividends paid (4.2) (2.8)
Net cash used in financing activities (4.5) (0.8)
---------- --------
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes 3.9 (3.9)
Net increase in cash in the year 26.1 20.3
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning
of year 211.2 190.9
Cash and cash equivalents at end
of year 237.3 211.2
========== ========
Consolidated statement of changes in equity
for the year ended 31 March 2015
Share Share Cash flow Retained Total shareholders'
capital premium hedging earnings equity
reserve
GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
--------- --------- ---------- ---------- --------------------
Audited as at 31 March
2013 1.8 10.7 12.4 161.7 186.6
Total comprehensive
income for the year - - (39.2) 35.9 (3.3)
Issue of share capital - 0.7 - - 0.7
Dividends paid in the
year - - - (2.8) (2.8)
Share based payments - - - 0.4 0.4
Audited as at 31 March
2014 1.8 11.4 (26.8) 195.2 181.6
Total comprehensive
income for the year - - (53.6) 32.8 (20.8)
Issue of share capital - 0.5 - - 0.5
Dividends paid in the
year - - - (4.2) (4.2)
Share based payments - - - 0.1 0.1
Unaudited as at 31
March 2015 1.8 11.9 (80.4) 223.9 157.2
========= ========= ========== ========== ====================
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2015
1. General information
The Group's financial statements consolidate the financial
statements of Dart Group PLC and its subsidiaries. The Group's
financial statements have been prepared and approved by the
Directors in accordance with International Financial Reporting
Standards ("IFRS"), as adopted by the European Union ("Adopted
IFRS").
2. Basis of preparation
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical
cost convention except for all derivative financial instruments,
which have been stated at fair value.
Whilst the information included in this preliminary announcement
has been computed in accordance with Adopted IFRS, this
announcement does not itself contain sufficient information to
comply with Adopted IFRS. Dart Group PLC expects to publish full
financial statements in early August 2015.
The Group uses forward foreign currency contracts and aviation
fuel swaps to hedge exposure to foreign exchange rates and aviation
fuel price volatility. The Group also uses forward EU Allowance
contracts and forward Certified Emissions Reduction contracts to
hedge exposure to Carbon Emissions Allowance price volatility. Such
derivative financial instruments are stated at fair value.
Going concern
The Directors have prepared financial forecasts for the Group,
comprising operating profit, balance sheets and cash flows through
to 31 March 2018.
For the purposes of their assessment of the appropriateness of
the preparation of the Group's accounts on a going concern basis,
the Directors have considered the current cash position, the
availability of banking facilities, the Group's net current
liability position, and forecasts of future trading through to 31
March 2018, including performance against financial covenants and
the assessment of principal areas of uncertainty and risk.
Having considered the points outlined above, the Directors have
a reasonable expectation that the Company and the Group will be
able to operate within the levels of available banking facilities
and cash for the foreseeable future. Consequently, they continue to
adopt the going concern basis in preparing the financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2015.
3. Segmental reporting
Business segments
The Chief Operating Decision Maker ("CODM") is responsible for
the overall resource allocation and performance assessment of the
Group. The Board of Directors approves major capital expenditure,
assesses the performance of the Group and also determines key
financing decisions. Consequently, the Board of Directors is
considered to be the CODM.
The Group's operating segments have been identified based on the
internal reporting information provided to the CODM in order for
the CODM to formulate allocation of resources to segments and
assess their performance. Previously, the Leisure Airline, Package
Holidays and Distribution & Logistics businesses were
determined to represent operating segments. However, the Leisure
Airline and Package Holidays businesses have been working
progressively closer together as one Leisure Travel business and,
following on from changes in the operational structure of the
business, internal financial reporting to the CODM now represents
one Leisure Travel operating segment. Consequently, the Group now
has two operating segments: Leisure Travel and Distribution &
Logistics.
The Leisure Travel business serves its customers' demand for
package holidays in, and flights to, high volume leisure
destinations in the Mediterranean and the Canary Islands and to
popular European Leisure Cities. Resource allocation decisions are
based on the entire route network and the deployment of the entire
aircraft fleet.
The Distribution & Logistics business is run on the basis of
the evaluation of distribution centre-level performance data.
However, resource allocation decisions are made based on the entire
distribution network. The objective in making resource allocation
decisions is to maximise the segment results rather than the
results of individual distribution centres within the network.
Group eliminations include the removal of inter-segment asset
and liability balances.
Following the identification of the operating segments, the
Group has assessed the similarity of their characteristics. Given
the different performance targets, customer bases and operating
markets of each, it is not currently appropriate to aggregate the
operating segments for reporting purposes and, therefore, both are
disclosed as reportable segments for the year ended 31 March
2015:
-- Leisure Travel, which incorporates the Group's ATOL licensed
package holidays operator, Jet2holidays and its leisure airline,
Jet2.com; and
-- Distribution & Logistics, incorporating the Group's logistics company, Fowler Welch.
The Board assesses the performance of each segment based on
operating profit, profit before and after tax, and EBITDA. Turnover
from reportable segments is measured on a basis consistent with the
income statement. Turnover is principally generated from within the
UK, the Group's country of domicile.
Segment results, assets and liabilities include items directly
attributable to a segment, as well as those that can be allocated
on a reasonable basis. No customer represents more than ten percent
of the Group's turnover.
Leisure Distribution Group Total
Travel & Logistics eliminations
GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
Unaudited
Year ended 31 March
2015
Turnover 1,101.5 151.7 - 1,253.2
Inter-segment turnover - - - -
-------------- ------------------- ------------------- ----------------
Turnover 1,101.5 151.7 - 1,253.2
Underlying EBITDA 116.0 5.9 - 121.9
Underlying operating
profit 46.9 3.7 - 50.6
Share of loss in joint
ventures - (0.4) - (0.4)
Finance income 1.7 - - 1.7
Finance costs (1.1) - - (1.1)
Revaluation of derivative
hedges 1.6 - - 1.6
Revaluation of foreign
currency balances 4.8 - - 4.8
-------------- ------------------- ------------------- ----------------
Net financing income 7.0 - - 7.0
Underlying profit before
taxation 53.9 3.3 - 57.2
Separately disclosed
items (17.0) - - (17.0)
Profit before taxation 36.9 3.3 - 40.2
Taxation (6.7) (0.7) - (7.4)
-------------- ------------------- ------------------- ----------------
Profit after taxation 30.2 2.6 - 32.8
============== =================== =================== ================
Assets and liabilities
Segment assets 923.3 84.2 (6.5) 1,001.0
Segment liabilities (813.7) (36.6) 6.5 (843.8)
-------------- ------------------- ------------------- ----------------
Net assets 109.6 47.6 - 157.2
============== =================== =================== ================
Other segment information
Property, plant and
equipment additions 74.4 2.0 - 76.4
Depreciation, amortisation
and impairment (69.1) (2.2) - (71.3)
Share based payments (0.1) - - (0.1)
Leisure Distribution Group Total
Travel & Logistics eliminations
GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
Unaudited
Year ended 31 March
2014
Turnover 967.0 153.2 - 1,120.2
Inter-segment turnover - - - -
-------- ------------- -------------- --------
Turnover 967.0 153.2 - 1,120.2
EBITDA 104.2 5.7 - 109.9
Operating profit 45.6 3.6 - 49.2
-------- ------------- -------------- --------
Finance income 1.4 - - 1.4
Finance costs (1.1) (0.3) - (1.4)
Revaluation of derivative
hedges (3.3) - - (3.3)
Revaluation of foreign
currency balances (3.8) - - (3.8)
-------- ------------- -------------- --------
Net financing costs (6.8) (0.3) - (7.1)
Profit before taxation 38.8 3.3 - 42.1
Taxation (5.6) (0.6) - (6.2)
-------- ------------- -------------- --------
Profit after taxation 33.2 2.7 - 35.9
======== ============= ============== ========
Assets and liabilities
Segment assets 775.8 84.4 (7.3) 852.9
Segment liabilities (639.2) (39.4) 7.3 (671.3)
-------- ------------- -------------- --------
Net assets 136.6 45.0 - 181.6
======== ============= ============== ========
Other segment information
Property, plant and
equipment additions 82.5 1.0 - 83.5
Depreciation, amortisation
and impairment (58.6) (2.1) - (60.7)
Share based payments (0.3) (0.1) - (0.4)
4. Net operating expenses
Unaudited Audited
2015 2014
GBPm GBPm
Direct operating costs:
Fuel 233.3 222.7
Landing, navigation & third party handling 137.7 119.3
Aircraft and vehicle rentals 33.7 37.9
Maintenance costs 58.0 46.8
Subcontractor charges 41.0 40.4
Accommodation costs 283.9 227.3
Agent commission 22.5 19.0
In-flight cost of sales 20.3 16.9
Other direct operating costs 42.7 39.8
Staff costs 190.6 168.0
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment
incl. aircraft and engines 71.3 60.7
Other operating charges 68.3 72.7
Other operating income (0.7) (0.5)
-------------- --------
Net operating expenses before separately
disclosed items 1,202.6 1,071.0
Separately disclosed items 17.0 -
Total net operating expenses 1,219.6 1,071.0
============== ========
5. Net financing income / (costs)
Unaudited Audited
2015 2014
GBPm GBPm
Finance income - interest receivable 1.7 1.4
Finance costs - borrowings (1.1) (1.4)
Revaluation of derivative hedges:
---------- --------
- Derivatives ineligible for cash flow
hedge accounting - (1.4)
- Changes in fair value of ineffective
cash flow hedges 1.6 (1.9)
---------- --------
1.6 (3.3)
Revaluation of foreign currency balances 4.8 (3.8)
Net finance income / (costs) 7.0 (7.1)
========== ========
6. Earnings per share
Unaudited Audited
2015 2014
Basic weighted average number of shares
in issue (No.) 146,278,585 145,300,720
Dilutive potential ordinary shares:
employee share options (No.) 1,455,645 2,402,809
Diluted weighted average number of shares
in issue (No.) 147,734,230 147,703,529
================ ============
Basis of calculation - earnings (basic
and diluted)
Profit for the purposes of calculating GBP32.8m GBP35.9m
basic and diluted earnings
Earnings per share - basic 22.42p 24.68p
Earnings per share - diluted 22.20p 24.28p
7. Separately disclosed items
Separately disclosed items are presented in the middle column of
the year ended 31 March 2015 Consolidated Income Statement in order
to assist the reader's understanding of underlying business
performance and to provide a more meaningful presentation. The
right hand column presents the results for the year showing all
gains and losses recorded in the Consolidated Income Statement.
EU Regulation 261
The full year results include a separately disclosed exceptional
provision of GBP17.0m, in relation to possible passenger
compensation claims for historical flight delays under Regulation
(EC) No 261/2004.
8. Financial information
The financial information set out above does not constitute Dart
Group PLC's statutory accounts for the years ended 31 March 2015 or
31 March 2014. The financial information for 2014 is derived from
the statutory accounts for the year ended 31 March 2014, which have
been delivered to the Registrar of Companies. The auditor has
reported on the year ended 31 March 2014 accounts; their
report:
i. was unqualified;
ii. did not include a reference to any matters to which the
auditor drew attention by way of emphasis without qualifying their
report; and
iii. did not contain a statement under section 498 (2) or (3) of the Companies Act 2006.
The statutory accounts for the year ended 31 March 2015 will be
finalised on the basis of the financial information presented by
the directors in this preliminary announcement and will be
delivered to the Registrar of Companies in due course.
9. Annual report and accounts
The 2015 Annual Report and Accounts (together with the Auditor's
Report) will be made available to shareholders no later than 10
August 2015. The Dart Group PLC Annual General Meeting will be held
on 3 September 2015.
This information is provided by RNS
The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
END
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