TIDMRLE
RNS Number : 8794A
Real Estate Investors PLC
17 September 2018
Real Estate Investors Plc
("REI" or the "Company" or the "Group")
Half Year Results
For the six months ended 30 June 2018
Strongly positioned for opportunistic acquisitions and set for
record contracted rents
Real Estate Investors Plc (AIM : RLE), the Midlands focused
property group and listed UK Real Estate Investment Trust, today
announced its unaudited half year results for the six-month period
ended 30 June 2018.
Financial Highlights
-- Gross property assets of GBP217.8 million (FY 2017: GBP213.1 million) up 2.2%
-- Revenue of GBP7.4 million (H1 2017: GBP7.1 million) up 4.2%
-- Underlying profit before tax* of GBP3.4 million (H1 2017: GBP3.1 million) up 9.7%
-- Pre-tax profit of GBP5.3 million (H1 2017: GBP6.4 million) down 17.2%
-- EPRA NAV** per share of 70.1p (FY 2017: 68.9p) up 1.7%
-- EPRA EPS** of 1.8p (H1 2017: 1.6p) up 12.5%
-- Q2 dividend of 0.875p, giving a fully covered dividend for H1
of 1.75p (H1 2017: 1.5p) up 16.7%
-- Average cost of debt of 4.1% (H1 2017: 4.0%) and post Half
Year end has been reduced to 3.7%
-- New GBP10 million 5-year term facility with RBS at 1.95% above Libor
-- Agreed a 5-year extension to the term of our GBP20 million
Lloyds facility effective from October 2018
Operational Highlights
-- Acquisitions of GBP7.6 million (net of costs) at a net
initial yield of 7.66% and reversionary yield of 8.31%
-- Post Half Year end acquisition of GBP4.8 million at a yield of 8.7%
-- Disposal proceeds totalling GBP5.0 million - which produced a
combined income of GBP439,094 p.a.
-- Contracted rental income of GBP15.8 million (net of
contracted sales) (FY 2017: GBP16.2 million)
-- Active asset management across portfolio, 250 tenants across 56 assets
-- Occupancy 92% (FY 2017: 94%) as a result of secured lease
terminations to allow for refurbishment and reletting on superior
terms
-- GBP1.6 million potential ERV from void space within existing portfolio
Paul Bassi, CEO of Real Estate Investors Plc, commented:
"Our portfolio remains stable, secure and diverse across many
sectors, without any material exposure to a single sector or
occupier. We operate in a regional economy that is enjoying an
outstanding period of economic activity and regeneration and which
we believe is set to prosper further."
"Dividend payments of 1.75p during H1 are up 16.7%, and our main
focus continues to be the growth of our dividends to our
shareholders on a sustainable, fully covered and progressive basis.
Our Half Year revenue of GBP7.4 million (up 4.2%) is set to grow
further from acquisitions made in June 2018 with further available
capital to invest. We anticipate record revenues and contracted
rents over the next 12 months, and at the half year end, our gross
property assets have grown to GBP217.8 million, up 2.2%, despite
sales of GBP5 million during H1."
"In line with our strategy, the year to date has been a period
of preparation for any market downturn that we may experience over
the coming 12 months, given the ongoing political uncertainty.
Accordingly, we have made strategic sales and secured GBP30 million
of cash and agreed bank facilities to enable us to capture criteria
compliant assets as opportunities arise. We are well placed to grow
the portfolio further, achieve record contracted rental income over
the next 12 months and grow our dividend payments, in line with our
progressive dividend policy."
"Having secured vacant possession and completed refurbishments,
we have GBP1.6 million potential rental revenue (ERV) from void
space within our existing portfolio, that will enhance our capital
values further and reduce our holding costs upon letting."
"Additionally, as announced earlier in the year, we have
approximately 250,000 sq ft of potential for 'permitted
development' conversion to residential. The conversion or sale of
these properties will provide positive capital growth and valuation
gain. Since the half year end, we have already agreed terms for the
sale of an office scheme for permitted development at a premium to
the existing office valuation."
Financial and Operational Results
30 June 2018 31 December 2017 Change
Gross property assets GBP217.8 million GBP213.1 million +2.2%
EPRA NAV per share** 70.1p 68.9p +1.74%
EPRA NNNAV per share** 68.6p 67.1p +2.24%
Net assets GBP129.2 million GBP127.1 million +1.7%
Loan to value 41.6% 40.4%
Loan to value net of cash 37.9% 38.3%
Average cost of debt 4.1% 4.2%
Contracted rental income GBP15.8 million GBP16.2 million -2.5%
Like for like rental income GBP15.2 million GBP15.8 million -3.8%
Like for like capital value per sq ft GBP147 per sq ft GBP145 per sq ft +1.38%
Like for like valuation GBP210.2 million GBP208.0 million +1.06%
Tenants 250 258
WAULT*** 4.33 years 4.53 years
Definitions
* Underlying profit before tax excludes profit/loss on
revaluation and sale of properties and interest rate swaps
** EPRA = European Public Real Estate Association
*** WAULT = Weighted Average Unexpired Lease Term
Enquiries:
Real Estate Investors Plc
Paul Bassi +44 (0)121 212 3446
Smith & Williamson Corporate Finance
Limited
Azhic Basirov/David Jones +44 (0)20 7131 4000
Liberum
Jamie Richards/William Hall +44 (0)20 3100 2000
Gable Communications Limited +44 (0)20 7193 7463
John Bick +44 (0)7872 061 007
About Real Estate Investors Plc
Real Estate Investors Plc is a publicly quoted, internally
managed property investment company and REIT with a portfolio of
1.5 million sq ft of predominantly 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 a progressive dividend
policy. Further information on the Company can be found at
www.reiplc.com.
Chief Executive's Statement
Overview - Period of preparation
The results are in line with management's expectations and have
been achieved during a period of preparation for any market
downturn that we may experience due to Brexit discussions. We have
made strategic sales and built up cash and agreed bank facilities
to provide GBP30 million of firepower to capitalise on market
opportunities. We have added income to our rent roll, grown the
portfolio and delivered on our commitment of a progressive dividend
policy.
Our understanding of the property market place indicates that
there is a strong likelihood that criteria compliant opportunities
will become available during Q4 2018 and H1 2019, and that our
market reputation and network, coupled with our financial resources
will allow us to capture these at attractive entry points.
We continue to operate in an exceptionally vibrant regional
economy that we believe is in a period of rebirth and has now
established itself as a prosperous UK region. The benefit of the
major relocations of HSBC and the Inland Revenue, combined with the
arrival of HS2 and major future events such as the Birmingham 2022
Commonwealth Games and Coventry City of Culture 2021, will bring
further positive economic benefit to our market place, through
improved occupancy and rental growth.
H1 pre-tax profits are GBP5.3 million, after absorbing
GBP385,000 of property acquisition costs, and our underlying
profits of GBP3.4 million, up 9.7%, have been achieved despite the
loss of income from sales in January 2018 and without the benefit
of acquisitions that were made in late June 2018. The temporary
fall in our occupancy and contracted rental income is as a result
of lease terminations in space that we have now refurbished and
made available to the market place and intend to let on superior
terms with a total of GBP1.6 million of potential rental income
that will enhance our revenues significantly and likely provide
further positive revaluation uplift. The quality of our assets
combined with the economic prosperity of our region gives us great
confidence in capturing our ERV over the next 12 months.
We have an excellent, diverse portfolio with in-built asset
management opportunities via lease re-gearing and renewals,
lettings, change of use and refurbishments. Following valuations
carried out by leading property consultants Cushman & Wakefield
and JLL, we have seen an overall positive increase in our like for
like valuations of 1.06%; this has been achieved via value-add
events and hands on asset management. Our active approach to asset
management enables us to absorb some negative market sentiment,
whilst we take advantage of any downturn with our capital
resources.
Our dividend payments of 1.75p during H1 are up 16.7%, and our
main focus continues to be the growth of our dividends to our
shareholders on a sustainable and progressive basis. Our revenue of
GBP7.4 million (up 4.2%) is set to grow further from acquisitions
made in late June 2018 and further still, once we invest our
available capital. We anticipate record revenues and contracted
rents over the next 12 months.
Demand for regional property investment remains strong, and is
attracting diverse international investors, local authorities and
HNW individuals, together with the UK funds, institutions and
property companies, many of whom traditionally focus on London.
During H1 2018, we have not been prepared to pay the prices that
assets are attracting nor have we seen the criteria compliant
assets that could enhance our earnings and asset base further.
However, our belief is that market sentiment and unrest over the
next 12 months will provide us with the opportunity to make
strategic and beneficial acquisitions.
Finance Review
The underlying profit for the six months to 30 June 2018 was
GBP3.4 million (H1 2017: 3.1 million), an increase of 9.7%
(underlying profit excludes the effect of property
revaluations/sales and financial instrument valuations).
The statutory profit before tax for the period was GBP5.3
million (H1 2017: GBP6.4 million) due to property revaluation
surplus and sales of GBP1.3 million (H1 2017: GBP2.9 million) and a
surplus on revaluation of financial instruments of GBP565,000 (H1
2017: GBP465,000).
Revenue increased and was up 4.2% to GBP7.4 million (H1 2017:
GBP7.1 million). Direct costs decreased during the period to
GBP660,000 H1 (H1 2017: GBP964,000) reflecting the continuing
management of the properties. Property acquisitions during the
period were GBP8.2 million and the property revaluation surplus has
absorbed the acquisition costs of GBP385,000 on these
properties.
Banking
REI is multi banked and we continue to receive excellent support
from our bankers, who are open to us increasing our facilities.
Banks have remained 'open for business', with healthy competition
amongst banks to secure new lending to experienced management teams
with diversified portfolios and prudently geared balance sheets.
REI comfortably meets these criteria.
We have fixed our GBP41 million facility with RBS at 2.75% and
in September drew down our new GBP10 million facility with RBS at
1.95% above Libor. In August 2018, we closed out 50% of the hedge
on our Lloyds facility, leaving GBP10 million hedged, and agreed
terms to extend the GBP20 million facility for a 5-year term,
effective from October 2018. As a result, our average cost of debt
going forward is reduced to 3.7% and the average term of debt will
be 5.25 years. This will give us total cash and available
facilities of GBP30 million.
The new RBS facility demonstrates our ability to secure debt
going forward, with a number of other banks prepared to lend on
similar terms. We are capitalising on the low interest rate
environment and it is our intention to grow the portfolio further,
whilst maintaining prudent levels of gearing.
Currently, 86% of our facilities are on fixed terms in line with
our commitment to convert some variable debt to fixed rates and
capitalise on the low interest rate environment. This will provide
protection against rates rising in the future and fix our outgoings
to allow us to manage our dividend growth with confidence.
Dividend
From January 2016, the Company commenced quarterly dividend
payments. For 2018, the first quarterly interim dividend of 0.875p
was paid in July 2018 and the second quarterly interim dividend of
0.875p will be paid in October 2018. The third quarterly interim
dividend will be paid in January 2019 and the final dividend will
be announced with the results in March 2019 and paid in April
2019.
The dividend for the first half year is therefore 1.75p, an
increase of 17% and fully covered by EPRA earnings. We have now
seen 5 years of year on year growth.
The Board's intention is to continue with a sustained, covered
and progressive dividend.
The proposed timetable for the Q2 dividend, which will be a PID
dividend, is as follows:
Dividend Timetable
Q2 Ex-dividend date: 27 September 2018
Q2 Record date: 28 September 2018
Q2 Dividend payment date: 26 October 2018
Outlook - Business as usual in a vibrant regional economy
Our dividend payments of 1.75p during H1 are up 16.7%, and our
main focus continues to be the growth of our dividends to our
shareholders on a sustainable and progressive basis. Our revenue of
GBP7.4 million (up 4.2%) is set to grow further from acquisitions
made in late June 2018 and further still, once we invest our
available capital.
At the half year end, our gross property assets grew to GBP217.8
million up 2.2%, even after allowing for sales of GBP5 million
during H1. We are positive about the quality of our existing income
and assets, and believe that they will continue to deliver earnings
and valuation gains through active asset management. Additionally,
there is a potential gain from permitted development rights to
residential, due to the strength of the Midlands regional housing
market, with prices in Q2 2018 increasing by 7% year-on-year, ahead
of all other English regions.
We believe expected short-term market uncertainty together with
our knowledge and financial resources will allow us to secure
record revenues and contracted rent, enabling us to provide
dividend growth with confidence. In the medium to long term,
management believe that major investments and relocations to our
region will continue to provide rental and capital growth within
our property market, supported by the economic vibrancy of a region
in the early stages of an economic re-emergence.
The REI Portfolio - Stable and secure, with upside potential
Property Overview
The investment market place in the Midlands remains strong, with
very healthy investor appetite from institutions, funds, overseas
investors and high net worth individuals. We do not envisage a
decline in demand for Midlands investments and will continue to
source asset management opportunities, that we can improve and
subsequently sell into investor demand or retain for rental
income.
Management have operated this business model for over 35 years
and we are well positioned and resourced to capitalise on any
short-term downturn as we demonstrated during the financial crisis,
General election and Brexit vote.
Much has been reported on the poor health of the retail sector,
due to high profile CVAs and insolvencies. REI does not have any
material exposure to the affected retail sector and continues to
focus on convenience and neighbourhood retail and offices, this is
a market place in which management have a long standing and proven
track record. Our portfolio mix remains diverse and risk
adverse.
Portfolio Mix - Diverse and Risk Adverse
30 June 2018 31 Dec 2017 Change
Sector GBP % by Income % by Income
Office 6,155,963 39.05% 37.89% +1.16%
----------- ------------- ------------- -------
Traditional Retail 3,623,982 22.99% 23.79% -0.80%
----------- ------------- ------------- -------
Discount Retail 1,210,290 7.68% 7.46% +0.22%
----------- ------------- ------------- -------
Food Stores 1,011,150 6.41% 6.45% -0.04%
----------- ------------- ------------- -------
Medical and Pharmaceutical 991,040 6.29% 6.11% +0.18%
----------- ------------- ------------- -------
Restaurant/Bar/Coffee 840,552 5.33% 6.32% -0.99%
----------- ------------- ------------- -------
Financial/Licences/Agency 681,502 4.32% 4.40% -0.08%
----------- ------------- ------------- -------
Hotel 511,000 3.24% 3.15% +0.09%
----------- ------------- ------------- -------
Leisure 381,596 2.42% 2.43% -0.01%
----------- ------------- ------------- -------
Car Park 284,323 1.80% 1.59% +0.21%
----------- ------------- ------------- -------
Industrial 57,094 0.37% 0.35% +0.02%
----------- ------------- ------------- -------
Assured Shorthold
Tenancy 16,400 0.10% 0.06% +0.04%
----------- ------------- ------------- -------
TOTAL 15,764,892 100.00% 100.00%
----------- ------------- ------------- -------
Investment Market
Nationally investment volumes are down and are expected to
remain subdued until later in 2019. According to Colliers
International, all-property total returns for 2018 are down to
5.7%, markedly weaker than the 10.2% achieved in 2017 and below the
post financial crisis average of 9.4% per annum. Looking ahead they
suggest that performance is expected to slow further in 2019 to
3.8%, comprised of -1.0% capital growth and 4.9% income return.
Investment trading volumes in H1 2018, are down around 14% compared
to the same period last year. Far Eastern appetite for UK
commercial property slowed this year, accounting for just 8% of all
property transactions, down from 20% in 2017.
More relevant to our region, The Birmingham Office Market Forum
(BOMF) reported that Birmingham's office market enjoyed a steady H1
2018, ahead of the same period in 2017, with deals reaching 169,929
sq ft, with the half-year total of 318,412 sq ft was nearly 70,000
sq ft ahead of 2017. The largest deal was the purchase of 55
Colmore Row, for GBP98m (NIY of 4.88%) by TH Real Estate, which
completed in January.
Overall, values and equivalent yields have proved fairly stable
during the first half of 2018. However, with political uncertainty,
we expect to see weakness in sentiment and sales expectations
during the latter part of 2018 and we believe that there will be
opportunities during this period.
The regional investment market remains competitive and we have
not been prepared to pay elevated prices, though we have made some
positive sales. However, we anticipate that economic uncertainty
from Brexit will provide opportunities for acquisitions throughout
the coming months and we are well placed to react when such
potential acquisitions become available. We remain confident that
we will secure properties that meet the Company's investment
requirements and improve the portfolio mix further.
Occupational market
Birmingham and the wider market place continue to attract
significant occupier interest as a result of the continued growth
of the automobile sector, the arrival of HSBC and HS2, particularly
from companies in the rail and construction sectors and further
government department relocations. Birmingham has also been
confirmed as one of three cities in the running to be Channel 4's
new national headquarters. Meanwhile, a shortage of modern, vacant
office space across the wider region is leading to rental growth in
the sector, especially in M42 corridor offices where we anticipate
good rental growth as tenant demand competes for limited supply.
This sector remains a key target for acquisitions, and we remain
focused on both the underlying vacant possession value and the
prospects for alternative uses.
The retail sector is in a period of major restructure, we have
noted the well publicised Company Voluntary Arrangements (CVA's)
and administrations filed by over leveraged retailers and
restaurant operators, and the collapse of department store business
models. However, REI's exposure remains deliberately focused on
convenience and neighbourhood shopping which remain a growing
sub-sector that are essential for customers in providing
convenience shopping. We remain committed to this sector and
confident that it offers strong and sustainable prospects for
future rental and capital growth.
Acquisitions
Total acquisitions of GBP7.6 million (net of acquisition costs)
were made in late H1, with a combined income of GBP618,364 per
annum and a potential reversion to GBP671,202 per annum, which
reflects a 7.66% net initial yield and 8.31% reversionary yield.
New tenants from acquisitions include secretary of State, QS
Finance, MV Kelly, Handelsbanken, Fuelsoft, Toshiba and Instinctive
Technologies. We have a number of acquisition discussions ongoing,
and remain confident that we will secure record assets and
contracted rental income over the next 12 months.
-- Topaz Business Park, Topaz Way, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire -
Acquired 15 June 2018 (Office Business Park, GBP4.0 million,
excluding acquisition costs). Acquired in an off-market transaction
from a private investor, at a net initial yield of 6.9% with a
reversionary yield of 8.14%. The investment comprises a prominent
high-quality office business park of 10 self-contained office
buildings. The property is multi-let with tenants including QS
Finance, MV Kelly, Handelsbanken, Fuelsoft, Toshiba and Instinctive
Technologies. The Company believes that office rents in the asset
are below local market levels and therefore anticipate positive
rental and capital growth. There is also additional land that could
accommodate further offices and drive through, subject to
planning.
-- Molineux, Wolverhampton - Acquired 22 June 2018 (Office,
GBP3.582 million, excluding acquisition costs). A city centre
office which is let to the Secretary of State, Department for
Communities and Local Government on a recently re-geared 10-year
full repairing and insuring lease with a tenant break at the fifth
year. The investment was acquired with a current rental of
GBP324,370 per annum and a net initial yield of 8.50%. The property
provides an excellent yield together with a Government-backed
covenant and has strong potential for residential conversion should
the asset ever become vacant.
-- Post Half Year End Acquisition - Kings Heath, Birmingham -
Since the half year end, we have also acquired a prime
neighbourhood retail scheme from a pension fund, for the sum of
GBP4.8 million, representing a net initial yield of 8.7%, and
producing GBP445,860 rent per annum, with a WAULT of 4.25 years to
expiry and 4.00 years to a potential break, and our occupiers
include Wilko Retail, Scrivens Opticians, Burton, Lloyds Pharmacy,
Specsavers, Greggs and Bon Marche.
Sales
Capitalising on strong investor appetite for regional real
estate, REI has completed the sales of 24 Bennett's Hill in
Birmingham City Centre for GBP4.0 million on 10 January 2018,
representing a net initial yield of 7.14% and ahead of 31 December
2016 valuation, a parade of shops on High Street, West Bromwich for
GBP1.04 million and vacant offices at Metro Court, High Street,
West Bromwich (with completion in December 2018). More recently, we
exchanged contracts to sell 158 Marlowes, Hemel Hempstead for
GBP710,000, with completion on 20th August 2018. During the period
we have disposed of GBP5 million of assets which provided a
combined income of GBP439,094 per annum and a running yield of
5.25%.
The Company will recycle the cash receipts from these into
criteria compliant value-add opportunities over the next 6-12
months.
In view of the low interest environment and limited supply, we
expect demand for Midlands investment property to continue and have
identified a number of properties that are suitable for sale and
will monitor this position over the coming months, and anticipate
securing sales above existing book values.
Asset Management
Adding value via active asset management initiatives of rent
reviews, lease renewals and change of use, coupled with letting
void space, remain the core objective of our business model. We are
active asset managers, as we do not believe that a passive strategy
can provide the income yields and capital growth that we seek to
secure. Our void provides significant opportunity to add further
income and capital value to our portfolio, as it currently
represents income potential of c. GBP1.6 million. With GBP340,000
annual rental in our legal pipeline and a number of rent reviews
where we anticipate rental growth, plus planning gains from
undeveloped land, the portfolio has significant potential to grow
income and capital values. Our occupancy has reduced slightly from
94% at December 2017 to 92% at the half year to June 2018, as a
result of secured lease terminations to allow for refurbishment and
reletting. These have been marketed and are now under offer, hence
we anticipate an improvement in our occupancy by the year end.
Management believe that 5% void on an ongoing basis provides value
add asset management opportunity within the portfolio.
Location Value Area ERV CRI NIY RY EY Occupancy
(GBPm) ('000 (GBPm (GBPm (%) (%) (%) (%)
sf) pa) pa)
======= ====== ====== ====== ==== ==== ====
Birmingham -
central 30.3 114 2.0 1.3 2.91 6.26 6.04 82.9
================ ======= ====== ====== ====== ==== ==== ==== =========
Birmingham -
other 31.4 178 2.5 2.3 6.10 7.56 7.43 92.0
================ ======= ====== ====== ====== ==== ==== ==== =========
West Midlands 82.4 664 7.4 6.1 6.60 8.03 7.92 89.2
================ ======= ====== ====== ====== ==== ==== ==== =========
Other Midlands 66.1 511 5.9 5.7 7.63 8.05 7.76 96.3
================ ======= ====== ====== ====== ==== ==== ==== =========
Other Locations 3.8 33 0.4 0.4 8.87 8.45 7.94 100.0
================ ======= ====== ====== ====== ==== ==== ==== =========
Land 3.8 - - - - - - -
======= ====== ====== ====== ==== ==== ==== =========
Totals 217.8 1,500 18.2 15.8 6.36 7.68 7.55 91.7
======= ====== ====== ====== ==== ==== ==== =========
Permitted Development/Untapped Residential Value
REI's acquisition criteria remain strict and non-negotiable and
part of which is the 'change of use' potential. Based on the
Company's analysis to date, it is believed that approximately
250,000 sq ft of the portfolio has potential for 'permitted
development' conversion to residential.
Management believe the implementation of this element of the
Company's strategy will provide significant capital uplift that is
not presently recognised in the existing use of certain assets as
office buildings.
REI has monitored for some time the rising value of Midlands
residential property, which has outperformed most other UK regions
on a number of key measures, with further growth expected:
-- House prices in the West Midlands rose the fastest in the UK,
with annual growth in property values in the region at 5.8% by June
2018, according to ONS. The biggest fall was in London where prices
dropped by 0.7% year-on-year
-- According to Knight Frank's 2018-2022 UK Residential Market
Forecast the West Midlands looks set to enjoy 14.8% overall house
price growth over the period, compared to predicted growth of 14.2%
across the UK as a whole
REI is well positioned to gradually target vacant possession of
certain assets, with a view to converting them for residential use,
for resale or retention for rental income. Since the half year end,
we have already agreed terms for the sale of an office scheme for
permitted development at a premium to existing office
valuation.
REI's Regional Review
Economy/Trade/Business/Employment
-- Exports of goods from West Midlands companies rose to more
than GBP33 million in the year to March 2018, according to HMRC
with growth of 7.6%, outstripping the UK average of 6.5% growth
-- West Midlands region leads the way in growth of foreign
investment and jobs boost, being the only UK region to have
increased the number of projects and jobs created, according to the
Department for International Trade
-- West Midlands business confidences edges to a 2-year high
according to Lloyds Bank survey on businesses expected sales,
orders and profits over next six months
-- Plans to create more than 2.8 million sq ft of industrial
space in Birmingham as part of a GBP350 million scheme, which could
create up to 10,000 jobs, have taken a major step forward
-- HS2 contracts have been won by 400 Midlands companies, with around 50% being SME's
-- Secure Trust Bank's asset-based lending division has doubled
its funding of Midlands SMEs in the last year, providing more than
GBP60 million, the second consecutive year of doubled lending
-- Birmingham is in the top 10 cities for employment growth,
according to Irwin Mitchell's UK Powerhouse Report, boosted by the
high share of manufacturing jobs
Property
-- Birmingham is stealing the hearts of Chinese property
investors as it emerges as an affordable alternative to London and
is seeing a surge in interest from Hong Kong and mainland Chinese
investors whose traditional go-to market has been London,
accordingly to Chinese newspapers
-- Birmingham's top office rents to reach GBP34 psf by year end
as prime Grade A availability has continued to fall and now stands
at only 153,000 sq ft according to Savills forecasts following a
14% rise in Q1 take up against the 10-year average
-- Solihull and Birmingham have been named in a list of the UK's
top performing high streets by Cushman & Wakefield in a report
that ranks the viability and performance of 250 high streets
outside Central London, in which Solihull is ranked 17 and
Birmingham 37
-- Growing employment has contributed to competition for
industrial space, higher property prices and more construction
projects across the West Midlands, according to local property
specialists Bulleys
-- Birmingham's office market enjoyed a steady H1 2018, ahead of
the same period in 2017, with deals reaching 169,929 sq ft. The
half-year total of 318,412 sq ft was nearly 70,000 sq ft ahead of
2017, according to the Birmingham Office Market Forum (BOMF)
Manufacturing/Technology
-- The West Midlands has been selected as the UK's first 'test
bed' for 5G wireless technology, a move that is expected to attract
companies to the region, with up to GBP75 million funding to be
given to the region to assist in transforming them into 5G hubs
-- Coventry is to become the home for the UK's largest
independent vehicle battery manufacturer, creating around 90 jobs
at a high-tech facility, that will produce batteries for hybrid and
electric vehicles
-- JLR reports Q1 2018/2019 retail sales up 5.9% on the previous
year with 145,510 vehicles sold
-- Chancellor Philip Hammond has announced GBP780 million of
additional funding for 'catapult centres' for new technology across
the UK, with the West Midlands awarded GBP270.9 million
-- Aston Martin is gearing up to float on the London Stock
Exchange having reported a record set of half-year results which
saw sales rise 14% in the first six months of 2018 to GBP444.9
million
-- Birmingham hosted 'world-first' zero emission vehicle summit,
backed by the Government that showcased the expertise and
opportunities in the Midlands and the UK
Culture/Travel/Tourism/Education
-- The West Midlands will get a GBP1.5 billion "Games Gift" from
the 2022 Commonwealth Games in economic benefits of hosting the
games, according to new analysis by the former Treasury senior
economist and is due to add 1.3% to the region's GVA in addition to
a further GBP500 million one-off benefit from construction projects
now taking place
-- Birmingham is shortlisted in final 3 for Channel 4's new
national headquarters, with the decision to be finalised in
Autumn
-- Birmingham's tourism sector recorded its most successful year
in history last year, with hotel revenue, visitor numbers and
visitor spend, all reaching record highs, according to the West
Midlands Growth Company with subsequent visitor spend reaching
GBP7.1 billion, a 9% increase on last year
-- The West Midlands attracted more international visitors than
ever before, according to ONS, with 2.3 million visitors to the
region last year, a 6% rise on the previous year, with 39% business
visits
-- Birmingham is at the heart of HS2 according to HS2 minister
Nusrat Ghani who declared the project will support 100,000 new jobs
in the region and 2,000 new apprenticeships
-- Birmingham is the most attractive mid-sized city in Europe,
according to the latest report by global real estate advisor
Colliers, listing as 5(th) most attractive city overall out of 50
European cities, based on indicators including quality of life and
economic output
-- A 20-year strategy to create a 'Midlands Rail Hub' will boost
the Midlands' economy by GBP649 million per year and shift GBP22
billion of freight from the roads to the railways according to a
report by Midlands Connect and the Secretary of State for Transport
Chris Grayling
-- Birmingham has seen a 15% rise in hotel demand by
international visitors in 2018 which was amongst the highest in the
UK, according to data from Expedia findings
-- Midlands MIPIM pavilion attracted 50% more visitors, with
more than 4,700 visitors attending events hosted by the Midlands at
the world's leading global property event with events including the
launch of a GBP10 billion Investment Prospectus by the West
Midlands combined authority, and an update on the Midlands Engine
Investment Portfolio
Our Stakeholders
Our ongoing thanks to our hardworking staff, advisers,
shareholders and occupiers, whose support and dedication allows the
business to go from strength to strength. We look forward to a
prosperous period of growth.
John Crabtree OBE D.Univ Paul Bassi CBE D.Univ
Chairman Chief Executive
14 September 2018 14 September 2018
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
For the 6 months ended 30
June 2018
Six months Six months
to to Year ended
31 December
30 June 2018 30 June 2017 2017
(Unaudited) (Unaudited)
Note GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Revenue 7,446 7,142 14,880
Cost of sales (659) (964) (1,727)
------------- ------------- -------------------------------
Gross profit 6,787 6,178 13,153
Administrative expenses (1,543) (1,464) (3,548)
(Loss)/surplus on sale of
investment properties (169) - 176
Change in fair value of investment
properties 1,536 2,899 4,212
------------- ------------- -------------------------------
Profit from operations 6,611 7,613 13,993
Finance income 12 13 19
Finance costs (1,857) (1,674) (3,457)
Profit on financial liabilities
held at fair value 565 465 725
------------- ------------- -------------------------------
Profit on ordinary activities
before taxation 5,331 6,417 11,280
Income tax charge (107) (93) (145)
------------- ------------- -------------------------------
Net profit after taxation
and total comprehensive income 5,224 6,324 11,135
------------- ------------- -------------------------------
Basic earnings per share 6 2.8p 3.4p 6.0p
------------- ------------- -------------------------------
Diluted earnings per share 6 2.8p 3.3p 5.9p
------------- ------------- -------------------------------
EPRA Earnings per share 6 1.8p 1.6p 3.3p
------------- ------------- -------------------------------
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES
IN EQUITY
for the 6 months ended 30 June 2018
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 2016 18,642 51,721 45 800 49,953 121,161
Share based payment - - - 300 - 300
Dividends - final 2016 - - - - (1,398) (1,398)
Dividends - interim
2017 - - - - (1,398) (1,398)
-------- ------------------ ----------- --------- --------- --------
Transactions with owners - - - 300 (2,796) (2,496)
-------- ------------------ ----------- --------- --------- --------
Profit for the period
and total comprehensive
income - - - - 6,324 6,324
At 30 June 2017 18,642 51,721 45 1,100 53,481 124,989
Share based payment - - - 50 - 50
Dividends - interim
2017 - - - - (2,796) (2,796)
-------- ------------------ ----------- --------- --------- --------
Transactions with owners - - - 50 (2,796) (2,746)
-------- ------------------ ----------- --------- --------- --------
Profit for the period
and total comprehensive
income - - - - 4,811 4,811
At 31 December 2017 18,642 51,721 45 1,150 55,496 127,054
Share based payment - - - 152 - 152
Dividends - final 2017 - - - - (1,631) (1,631)
Dividends - interim
2018 - - - - (1,631) (1,631)
-------- ------------------ ----------- --------- --------- --------
Transactions with owners - - - 152 (3,262) (3,110)
-------- ------------------ ----------- --------- --------- --------
Profit for the period
and total comprehensive
income - - - - 5,224 5,224
At 30 June 2018 18,642 51,721 45 1,302 57,458 129,168
======== ================== =========== ========= ========= ========
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL
POSITION
as at 30 June
2018
31 December
30 June 2018 30 June 2017 2017
(Unaudited) (Unaudited)
Note GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Assets
Non current assets
Investment properties 5 214,040 205,681 209,421
Property, plant and
equipment 14 15 12
Deferred taxation 433 592 540
214,487 206,288 209,973
----- ------------- ---------------------------------- ------------
Current assets
Inventories 3,738 3,742 3,708
Trade and other receivables 2,754 2,824 3,663
Cash and cash equivalents 7,900 7,437 4,339
14,392 14,003 11,710
----- ------------- ---------------------------------- ------------
Total assets 228,879 220,291 221,683
===== ============= ================================== ============
Liabilities
Current liabilities
Bank loans 20,499 20,456 20,378
Trade and other payables 7,390 5,880 6,169
27,889 26,336 26,547
----- ------------- ---------------------------------- ------------
Non-current liabilities
Bank loans 68,518 64,836 64,213
Financial liabilities 3,304 4,130 3,869
71,822 68,966 68,082
----- ------------- ---------------------------------- ------------
Total liabilities 99,711 95,302 94,629
===== ============= ================================== ============
Net assets 129,168 124,989 127,054
===== ============= ================================== ============
Equity
Ordinary share capital 18,642 18,642 18,642
Share premium account 51,721 51,721 51,721
Capital redemption
reserve 45 45 45
Other reserves 1,302 1,100 1,150
Retained earnings 57,458 53,481 55,496
----- ------------- ---------------------------------- ------------
Total equity 129,168 124,989 127,054
----- ------------- ---------------------------------- ------------
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASHFLOWS
for the 6 months ended 30 June 2018
Six months Six months
to to Year ended
30 June 31 December
30 June 2018 2017 2017
(Unaudited) (Unaudited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Cashflows from operating activities
Profit after taxation 5,224 6,324 11,135
Adjustments for:
Depreciation 3 2 5
Loss/(surplus) on sale of investment
property 169 - (176)
Net valuation surpluses (1,536) (2,899) (4,212)
Share based payment 152 300 350
Finance income (12) (13) (19)
Finance costs 1,857 1,674 3,457
Surplus on financial liabilities
held at fair value (565) (465) (725)
Taxation charge recognised in
profit and loss 107 93 145
Increase in inventories (30) (47) (13)
Decrease/(increase) in trade
and other receivables 909 101 (738)
Increase/(decrease) in trade
and other payables 1,011 (376) (87)
7,289 4,694 9,122
Interest paid (1,857) (1,674) (3,457)
Net cash from operating activities 5,432 3,020 5,665
============= ============ ========================
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of investment properties (8,233) (9,729) (20,353)
Purchase of property, plant
and equipment (5) (2) (3)
Proceeds from sale of property,
plant and equipment 4,981 5,149 13,522
Interest received 12 13 19
(3,245) (4,569) (6,815)
============= ============ ========================
Cash flow from financing activities
Equity dividends paid (3,029) (2,563) (5,359)
Proceeds from bank loans 4,570 - -
Payment of bank loans (167) (226) (927)
1,374 (2,789) (6,286)
============= ============ ========================
Net increase/(decrease) in cash
and cash equivalents 3,561 (4,338) (7,436)
Cash and cash equivalents at
beginning of period 4,339 11,775 11,775
Cash and cash equivalents at
end of period 7,900 7,437 4,339
============= ============ ========================
NOTES TO THE INTERIM FINANCIAL INFORMATION
for the 6 months ended 30 June 2018
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 2018
(including the comparatives for the year ended 31 December 2017 and
the period ended 30 June 2017) was approved by the board of
directors on 14 September 2018.
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 2017 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 2017 financial statements approved by
the Company on 19 March 2018, except for the effects of applying
IFRS 15 and IFRS 9.
IFRS 15 'Revenue from Contracts with Customers' and the related
'Clarifications to IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers'
replace IAS 18 'Revenue', IAS 11 'Construction Contracts', and
several revenue-related Interpretations. IFRS 9 replaces IAS 39
'Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement'. It makes
major changes to the previous guidance on the classification and
measurement of financial assets and introduces an 'expected credit
loss' model for the impairment of financial assets.
The impact of applying these new standards is not material to
the Group.
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 2016 198,202
Additions 9,729
Disposals (5,149)
Revaluation 2,899
-------------------
Carrying amount at 30 June 2017 205,681
Additions 10,624
Disposals (8,197)
Revaluation 1,313
-------------------
Carrying amount at 31 December 2017 209,421
Additions 8,233
Disposals (5,150)
Revaluation 1,536
Carrying amount at 30 June 2018 214,040
===================
6. EARNINGS PER SHARE
The calculation of the 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 basic earnings per share has been calculated on the profit
for the period of GBP5,224,000 (31 December 2017: GBP11,135,000)
and on 186,420,598 ordinary shares being the weighted average
number of shares in issue during the period and at 31 December
2017.
The European Public Real Estate Association ("EPRA") earnings
and asset value 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 2018 31 December 2017
Earnings Shares Earnings per share Earnings Shares Earnings per share
GBP'000 No P GBP'000 No p
Basic earnings per share 5,224 186,420,598 2.8 11,135 186,420,598 6.0
Fair value of investment
properties (1,536) (4,212)
Loss/(profit) on
disposal of investment
properties 169 (176)
Change in fair value of
derivatives (565) (725)
Deferred tax in respect
of EPRA adjustments 107 145
---------- ------------ --------- ------------
EPRA Earnings 3,399 186,420,598 1.8 6,167 186,420,598 3.3
========== ============ =================== ========= ============ ===================
EPRA NAV per share
30 June 2018 31 December 2017
Net asset value per Net asset value per
Net Assets Shares share Net Assets Shares share
GBP'000 No p GBP'000 No p
Basic 129,168 186,420,598 69.3 127,054 186,420,598 68.2
Dilutive impact of
share options and
warrants - 1,978,643 - 2,886,349
----------- ------------ ----------- ------------
Diluted 129,168 188,399,241 68.6 127,054 189,306,947 67.1
Adjustment to fair
value of
derivatives 3,304 - 3,869 -
Deferred tax (433) - (540) -
----------- ------------ ----------- ------------
EPRA NAV 132,039 188,399,241 70.1 130,383 189,306,947 68.9
Adjustment to fair
value of
derivatives (3,304) - (3,869) -
Deferred tax 433 - 540 -
----------- ------------ ----------- ------------
EPRA NNNAV 129,168 188,399,241 68.6 127,054 189,306,947 67.1
=========== ============ ==================== =========== ============ ====================
This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the
London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct
Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United
Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution
of this information may apply. For further information, please
contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.
END
IR DMGMLKDGGRZM
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