TIDMMRIT

RNS Number : 6917S

Merit Group PLC

08 November 2023

8 November 2023

Merit Group plc

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

UNAUDITED INTERIM RESULTS TO 30 SEPTEMBER 2023

Merit Group plc (AIM: MRIT), the data and intelligence business, announces its unaudited interim results for the half year ended 30 September 2023.

Financial Highlights

-- Accelerating revenue growth; Revenue from Continuing Operations of GBP9.9m up 9.3% (H1 FY23: GBP9.1m) (1)

-- Adjusted EBITDA increased by 67% to GBP1.8m (H1 FY23: Adj EBITDA GBP1.1m)

-- Adjusted EBITDA margin increased by six percentage points from 12.1% to 18.5%

-- Net cash generated from continuing operating activities of GBP0.7m (H1 FY23: GBP0.4m)

-- Return to profit before tax of GBP0.5m (H1 FY23: loss of GBP0.3m) , representing 1.47 pence per share.

-- Net Debt (2) of GBP2.5m as at 30 September 2023, (31 March 2023: GBP2.6m) with total available debt facilities of GBP4.0m.

 
 Continuing Operations (1) 
                                H1 FY24     H1 FY23 
                              30 Sep 23      30 Sep  Change (6) 
                                             22 (1) 
 
 Revenue                        GBP9.9m     GBP9.1m        9.3% 
 Gross profit                   GBP4.7m     GBP4.3m       10.7% 
 Gross margin (3)                 47.9%       47.4% 
 Adjusted EBITDA (4)            GBP1.8m     GBP1.1m       66.6% 
 Net margin (5)                   18.5%       12.1% 
 Profit/(loss) before tax       GBP0.5m   (GBP0.3m) 
 Basic Earnings per share         1.47p     (1.82p) 
 

1. Comparative figures for the six-month period to 30 September 2022 have been restated to remove Discontinued Operations as outlined in Note 5.

2. Net debt comprises the aggregate of gross debt, excluding IFRS16 lease liabilities, and cash and cash equivalents as outlined in Note 11.

3. Gross margin is Gross profit as a percentage of Revenue.

4. Adjusted EBITDA is calculated as earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortisation of intangible assets, share-based payments and non-recurring items.

5. Net margin is Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of Revenue.

6. Year-on-year percentage change figures are calculated on unrounded numbers.

Operational Highlights

-- Expanded sales team in Merit Data & Technology now delivering new customers underpinning accelerating growth; 13.3% revenue growth in H1 FY24 compared to 7.8% in the preceding half year.

-- Margin improvement program within Merit Data & Technology has already delivered a six percentage point improvement in EBITDA margins to 19.5%.

-- Ongoing investment in AI initiatives, in which the business has a five-year track record, is delivering both cost competitiveness and further margin improvement opportunities.

-- Dods Political Intelligence has begun the acceleration of its revenue growth, achieving 2.7%, up from 0.4% in the first half of last year.

-- With GBP3.5m of revenue Dods PI delivered an Adjusted EBITDA of GBP1.1m, up 20%, and an operating profit of GBP0.7m, up 175%, demonstrating its strong operational gearing.

-- Group Adjusted EBIT was GBP0.9m in H1 FY24, up from a loss of GBP0.3m in H1 FY23.

David Beck, CEO of Merit Group plc, said;

"We are pleased to able to announce further progress and a very good set of first half numbers, including a return to profit before tax. Despite challenging economic conditions, the Group is accelerating its revenue growth whilst also increasing its margins. Both operating businesses are working to detailed growth plans which, when combined with their high levels of subscription or recurring revenue and operational gearing, is helping to drive profitability faster than revenue growth.

"The Group's deep technology skills and increasing use of AI to drive both new revenue opportunities and operational efficiencies gives the Board further confidence in the business' ability to build on the progress already achieved."

Mark Smith, Chairman, commented;

"With the Group's restructuring complete the focus is now on growth and driving shareholder value. Small listed companies do not always see their value fully reflected in their share prices, the Board of Merit recognises that it has a duty to all shareholders to maximise value."

For further information, please contact:

Merit Group plc

   David Beck - CEO                                                                 020 7593 5500 

Philip Machray - CFO

www.meritgroupplc.com

Canaccord Genuity Limited (Nomad and Broker)

Bobbie Hilliam 020 7523 8150

Harry Pardoe

This announcement is released by Merit Group plc and contains inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 ("MAR"), and is disclosed in accordance with the Group's obligations under Article 17 of MAR. With the publication of this announcement, this information is now considered to be in the public domain.

For the purposes of MAR and Article 2 of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2016/1055, this announcement is being made on behalf of the Group by David Beck, Chief Executive Officer.

BUSINESS AND OPERATIONAL REVIEW

The Group had a very good first half and is benefitting from the restructuring of both its operations and cost base achieved in the prior year. Despite challenging economic conditions, in the first half year the Group has delivered revenue growth and an increase in Adjusted EBITDA from Continuing Operations to GBP1.8m, compared to GBP1.1m in the prior year. Both operating divisions, Merit Data & Technology (Merit D&T) and Dods Political Intelligence (Dods) performed strongly.

The revenue growth in both operating businesses combined with cost efficiencies has helped drive an Adjusted EBITDA margin improvement of six percentage points in Merit D&T and four percentage points in Dods.

The Group has returned to a Profit before tax of GBP0.5m in the half year (H1 FY23: loss before tax of GBP0.3m), a significant improvement driven in part by the reduction in depreciation of right-of-use assets following the successful disposal of the Group's excess London office space at the end of the previous financial year.

Merit Data & Technology

The Merit Data & Technology (Merit D&T) business has long-standing customers that provide the business with high levels of recurring revenue. We provide a range of data and intelligence products and services, as well as data solutions to a loyal customer base. The business uses its proprietary technology and AI skills to gather and enhance industry intelligence and marketing data.

Merit D&T saw strong and accelerating revenue growth in the first half, up 13.3% to GBP6.4m from GBP5.6m in H1 FY23. Adjusted EBITDA of GBP1.2m in the first half benefitted from t he recovery in the Sterling/INR exchange rate and compares to the GBP0.7m in the same period in the previous year .

The upgraded sales and marketing function within Merit D&T that was recruited and expanded in FY23 is helping to generate new customers and new revenue from existing customers across all areas of the business. The business secured new clients in Pythian, Media 42, Hyve and ION, and has also secured additional work from existing clients Jato, Lloyds List Intelligence and Wilmington amongst others.

With the increasing acceptance of AI tools as a driver of business efficiency Merit D&T is able to actively pursue new revenue opportunities from customers seeking to implement AI solutions. The business is also using increasing amounts of AI within its own operations; reducing costs to make it even more price competitive and to continue to deliver margin improvements.

Dods Political Intelligence

Dods is a provider of mission critical UK and European policy and political data and intelligence to approximately 800 subscribers. Dods is the UK's industry leader with an enviable reputation for the comprehensiveness of its service and the quality of its analysis and consultancy. The business benefits from subscription revenues from a large, diverse and loyal subscriber base of blue-chip customers.

In the first half the Continuing Operations of Dods grew revenue by 2.7% to GBP3.5m and made Adjusted EBITDA of GBP1.1m against GBP0.9m in the same period last year. An adjusted EBITDA margin of 30.9% was flattered by the inclusion of Other Operating Income (not included in revenue) from the provision of transitional services to the businesses that were disposed of in November 2022. Those transitional services arrangements have largely come to an end and will therefore not recur in the second half, a normalised first half margin taking out the other operating income and associated costs would be circa 25%.

The increased focus on, and investment in, the Dods business to focus on growth commenced with the recruitment of a new Director of Sales and Marketing at the end of the first half. The newly restructured business now benefits from a three year growth plan underpinned by new customer research and investment in further product and service improvements. New customers in the period include Drax, Thakeham Homes, The Royal College of Surgeons and the German Animal Welfare Association.

Central

Central costs continue to be closely managed; despite some inflationary pressures in the costs of professional fees and insurance, central costs reduced by 8% year-on-year to GBP0.5m in the first half.

In contrast to prior years, the Group reports no non-recurring items in the period, reflecting the substantial completion of the Group's restructuring.

Outlook

Despite challenging economic conditions, the Group is accelerating its revenue growth whilst also increasing its margins. Both operating businesses are delivering improved results by working to detailed growth plans which, when combined with their high levels of subscription or recurring revenue, maximises their natural operational gearing.

The Group's deep technology skills and increasing use of AI to drive both new revenue opportunities and operational efficiencies gives the Board further confidence in the business' ability to build on the progress already achieved.

David Beck

CEO

Merit Group plc

FINANCIAL REVIEW

On 30 November 2022, the Group completed the disposal of the Media, Events and Training operations of its Dods segment (together, the "MET Operations") for a cash consideration of GBP4.5 million to Political Holdings Limited.

On 12 January 2023, the Group completed the disposal of the trade and assets of Le Trombinoscope SAS, the Paris-based activities of the Dods segment ("Le Trombinoscope") to Trombimedia Limited for GBP0.1 million cash consideration.

As a consequence of the disposals, the activities of the MET Operations and Le Trombinoscope have been classified as Discontinued Operations within the Consolidated Income Statement and therefore excluded from the presentation of items on a Continuing Operations basis in prior periods to provide a like-for-like comparator.

Income Statement - Continuing Operations

The Group's revenue from Continuing Operations increased by 9.3% to GBP9.9m (H1 FY23: GBP9.1m).

Revenues from Merit Data and Technology (MD&T) were GBP0.8m higher than the equivalent prior half year (H1 FY24: GBP6.4m compared to H1 FY23: GBP5.6m), representing an increase of 13%. Dods revenues for the period increased by 3% to GBP3.5m (H1 FY23: GBP3.4m).

Gross profit for the period increased to GBP4.7m compared to the prior period (H1 FY23: GBP4.3m). Gross margin increased from 47% to 48%, driven by the Group's improving revenue growth and operational gearing.

Adjusted EBITDA increased by GBP0.7m to GBP1.8m (H1 FY23: GBP1.1m) due to strong revenue growth, operational gearing, and the net GBP0.2m benefit of transitional services provided to the disposed MET business during the period.

The return to operating profit, from a loss of GBP0.6m in H1 FY23 to a profit of GBP0.9m, reflects the increase in Adjusted EBITDA, a reduction in depreciation following the disposal of the Shard lease in the prior year and the lack of non-recurring charges. The Group's operating profit is stated after a right-of-use assets charge of GBP0.4m (H1 FY23: GBP0.7m), an amortisation on acquired intangibles under business combinations of GBP0.3m (H1 FY23: GBP0.3m), a charge for intangible assets amortisation of GBP0.1m (H1 FY23: GBP0.2m) and a charge for depreciation of tangible assets of GBP0.1m (H1 FY23: GBP0.3m).

The net finance expense for the year of GBP0.3m compares to a net finance credit of GBP0.1m in H1 FY23, reflecting the increase in interest rates and the impact of foreign exchange hedging.

The profit for the year from Continuing Operations, after a tax charge of GBP0.2m (H1 FY23: GBP0.2m), amounted to GBP0.4m (H1 FY23: GBP0.4m loss).

Earnings and Dividends

Earnings per share (basic and diluted) from Continuing Operations in the period were 1.47 pence (H1 FY23: loss of 1.82 pence, basic and diluted) and were based on the profit for the period of GBP0.4m (H1 FY23: GBP0.4m loss) with a weighted average number of shares in issue during the period of 23,956,124.

Adjusted earnings per share, both basic and diluted, from Continuing Operations in the period were 3.16 pence (H1 FY23: loss of 0.49 pence) and were based on the adjusted profit after tax for the period of GBP0.8m (H1 FY23: loss of GBP0.1m).

Total Earnings per share, both basic and diluted, in the period were 1.47 pence (H1 FY23: loss of 4.17 pence) and were based on the profit after tax for the period of GBP0.4m (H1 FY23: loss of GBP1.0m).

Whilst the Company's focus remains on maintaining financial flexibility and repositioning the business for future growth, the Board is not proposing a dividend (H1 FY23: GBPnil).

Going Concern

The Directors have considered the position and projections of the Group for the purpose of assessing Going Concern and remain satisfied with the Group's funding and liquidity position.

Statement of Financial Position

Assets

Non-current assets of GBP37.7m (31 March 2023: GBP37.7m) comprise goodwill of GBP26.9m (31 March 2023: GBP26.9m), intangible assets of GBP7.6m (31 March 2023: GBP7.9m), property, plant and equipment of GBP0.4m (31 March 2023: GBP0.3m), IFRS 16 rights-of-use assets of GBP2.2m (31 March 2023: GBP1.9m), investments of GBP0.5m (31 March 2023: GBP0.4m) and deferred tax assets amounting to GBP0.5m (31 March 2023: GBP0.5m). Movements in the year reflect amortisation and depreciation charges in the period offset by the addition of a new London premises lease (GBP0.7m).

Current assets comprise Trade and other receivables of GBP5.5m (31 March 2023: GBP5.5m) and cash balances.

The Group had a cash balance of GBP1.1m at the period end (31 March 2023: GBP2.1m), reduced as the group actively manages the level of RCF drawing to minimise interest costs. Net debt amounted to GBP2.5m at the period end (31 March 2023: GBP2.6m).

Total assets of the Group were GBP44.3m (31 March 2023: GBP45.3m).

Liabilities

Current liabilities of GBP9.7m (31 March 2023 GBP10.8m) comprise Trade and other payables of GBP6.1m (31 March 2023: GBP6.6m), bank loans and borrowings of GBP2.9m (31 March 2023: GBP3.4m), IFRS16 lease liabilities of GBP0.6m (31 March 2023: GBP0.7m) and defined benefit pension liabilities of GBP0.1m (31 March 2023: GBP0.1m).

Non-current liabilities of GBP2.5m (31 March 2023 GBP2.8m) comprise bank loans and borrowings of GBP0.6m (31 March 2023: GBP1.3m), IFRS16 lease liabilities of GBP1.6m (31 March 2023: GBP1.2m) and defined benefit pension liabilities of GBP0.3m (31 March 2023: GBP0.2m).

Movement in the year primarily reflect the repayment of GBP1.2m of bank loans and borrowings, the repayment of GBP0.5m of IFRS16 lease liabilities and the addition of GBP0.7m of IFRS16 lease liabilities in respect of the new London premises lease.

Capital and reserves

Total equity increased by GBP0.3m to GBP32.1m (31 March 2023: GBP31.8m), reflecting the retained profit for the period.

Cash flows, liquidity and capital resources

Net cash generated by operations was an GBP0.8m inflow in the period by comparison to an GBP0.0m in H1 FY23 (GBP0.6m from Continuing operations). After tax, net cash used in operating activities amounted to GBP0.7m (H1 FY23: outflow of GBP0.2m in total of which Continuing Operations generated GBP0.4m and Discontinued Operations used GBP0.6m).

Investing activities, primarily related to the addition of IT equipment, leasehold improvements within the new London premises and the internal development of software amounted to GBP0.2m in the period, compared to GBP0.2m in the prior period which was offset by GBP0.5m of proceeds from the disposal of Associates.

Total financing outflows were GBP1.4m in the period (H1 FY23; GBP0.5m) as the group significantly reduced gross bank debt. This comprised GBP1.9m used in the servicing of bank debt and interest and capital repayments on leases, offset by the receipt of GBP0.5m in the period in respect of recoverable VAT paid on the disposal of the Shard lease in the prior period.

Net debt amounted to GBP2.5m at the period end (31 March 2023: GBP2.6m).

At 30 September 2023, the Group had bank debt of GBP3.5m (31 March 2023: GBP4.7m) comprising amounts owed on term loans and amounts drawn on a revolving credit facility (RCF).

The Group had a term loan with GBP0.8m outstanding (31 March 2023: GBP0.9m) taken out in July 2022 over a five-year period, with interest at 4.75% over Bank of England interest rate. A further GBP1.2m (31 March 2023: GBP1.8m) was outstanding on a GBP1.8m term loan taken out in March 2023 over an 18-month period, to part-fund disposal of the Shard lease. This loan has the same interest rates and covenants as the Group's existing term loan.

In addition, the Group had a GBP2.0m RCF facility available through to September 2027, of which GBP1.5m was drawn at the period end (31 March; GBP2.0m). Due to its revolving nature, this loan is all shown as due within one year.

Phil Machray

Chief Financial Officer

Condensed consolidated income statement

For the half year ended 30 September 2023

 
                                                                     Unaudited 
                                                        Unaudited    Half year         Audited 
                                                        Half year        ended      Year ended 
   Continuing Operations (1)                   Note         ended      30 Sept     31 Mar 2023 
                                                          30 Sept         2022         GBP'000 
                                                             2023    (restated 
                                                          GBP'000        (1) ) 
                                                                       GBP'000 
-----------------------------------------  --------  ------------  -----------  -------------- 
 
 Revenue                                          3         9,899        9,055          18,585 
 Cost of sales                                            (5,154)      (4,767)        (10,033) 
------------------------------------------  -------  ------------  -----------  -------------- 
 
   Gross profit                                             4,745        4,288           8,552 
 
 Administrative expenses                                  (4,170)      (4,861)        (12,628) 
 Other operating income                                       293            -             416 
 
   Operating profit/(loss) from 
   Continuing Operations                                      868        (573)         (3,660) 
 
   Memorandum: 
 
   Adjusted EBITDA(2)                             3         1,829        1,098           2,652 
 
   Depreciation of property, plant 
   and equipment                                             (88)        (301)           (620) 
 Depreciation of right-of-use 
  assets                                                    (406)        (661)         (1,313) 
 Amortisation of intangible assets 
  acquired through business combinations                    (294)        (294)           (587) 
 Amortisation of software intangible 
  assets                                                    (142)        (161)           (314) 
                                                     ------------  -----------  -------------- 
 Adjusted EBIT(3)                                             899        (319)           (182) 
 Share-based payments                                        (31)         (31)            (63) 
 Non-recurring items                              4 
         Loss on disposal of investments 
          in Associates                                         -            -           (303) 
         Losses on disposal of Shard 
          lease                                                 -            -         (2,927) 
         People-related costs                                   -        (150)           (123) 
         Other non-recurring items                              -         (73)            (62) 
 
   Operating profit/(loss) from 
   Continuing Operations                                      868        (573)         (3,660) 
 Net finance credit/(expense)                               (339)           68           (249) 
 Share of profit of Associate                                   -          252             252 
------------------------------------------  -------  ------------  -----------  -------------- 
 Profit/(loss) before tax from 
  Continuing Operations                                       529        (253)         (3,657) 
 
   Income tax (charge)/credit                               (176)        (182)              88 
------------------------------------------  -------  ------------  -----------  -------------- 
 
   Profit/(loss) for the period 
   from Continuing Operations                                 353        (435)         (3,569) 
 Loss/(profit) from Discontinued 
  Operations                                                    -        (564)             884 
 
   Profit/(loss) for the period                               353        (999)         (2,685) 
------------------------------------------  -------  ------------  -----------  -------------- 
 
 

(1) Comparative figures for the half year ended 30 September 2022 have been restated to reflect Continuing Operations only as outlined in Note 5.

(2) Adjusted EBITDA is defined as the operating profit/(loss) after adding back depreciation, amortisation, share-based payments, and non-recurring items.

(3) Adjusted EBIT is defined as the operating profit/(loss0 after adding back share-based payments and non-recurring items.

Earnings per share (pence)

 
 Basic and Diluted              p per share   p per share   p per share 
 Continuing Operations      6         1.47p       (1.82p)      (14.90p) 
 Discontinued Operations    6             -       (2.35p)         3.69p 
-------------------------      ------------  ------------  ------------ 
 
   Basic total              6         1.47p       (4.17p)      (11.21p) 
-------------------------      ------------  ------------  ------------ 
 

The notes on pages 13 to 27 form part of these unaudited interim results.

Condensed consolidated statement of comprehensive income

For the half year ended 30 September 2023

 
                                               Unaudited    Unaudited        Audited 
                                               Half year    Half year     Year ended 
                                                   ended        ended    31 Mar 2023 
                                                 30 Sept      30 Sept        GBP'000 
                                                    2023         2022 
                                                 GBP'000      GBP'000 
-------------------------------------------  -----------  -----------  ------------- 
 
   Profit/(loss) for the period                      353        (999)        (2,685) 
 
 Items that may be subsequently 
  reclassified 
  to Profit and loss: 
 Foreign currency translation: 
   Exchange differences on translation 
    of foreign operations                              2           21           (27) 
   Loss reclassified to profit and 
    loss on disposal of foreign operations             -            -           (48) 
-------------------------------------------  -----------  -----------  ------------- 
                                                       2           21           (75) 
 Remeasurement of defined benefits 
  obligation                                        (31)           36             45 
-------------------------------------------  -----------  -----------  ------------- 
 Other comprehensive income for 
  the period                                        (29)           57           (30) 
-------------------------------------------  -----------  -----------  ------------- 
 Total comprehensive profit/(loss) 
  for the period                                     324        (942)        (2,715) 
-------------------------------------------  -----------  -----------  ------------- 
 

The notes on pages 13 to 27 form part of these unaudited interim results.

Condensed consolidated statement of financial position

As at 30 September 2023

 
                                                                   Unaudited 
                                                   Unaudited    30 Sept 2022         Audited 
                                      Note      30 Sept 2023     (restated*)     31 Mar 2023 
                                                     GBP'000         GBP'000         GBP'000 
---------------------------------  -------  ----------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
 Non-current assets 
 Goodwill                                8            26,919          27,642          26,919 
 Intangible assets                       9             7,566           8,679           7,908 
 Property, plant and equipment          10               381           1,673             341 
 Right-of-use assets                                   2,198           4,869           1,874 
 Investments                                             474             997             450 
 Deferred tax assets                                     184             346             184 
 Total non-current assets                             37,722          44,206          37,676 
 Current assets 
 Trade and other receivables                           5,503           4,102           5,502 
 Loan receivable                                           -             140               - 
 Cash and cash equivalents                             1,069           1,834           2,144 
                                                       6,572           6,076           7,646 
 Assets held for resale                                    -           3,591               - 
---------------------------------  -------  ----------------  --------------  -------------- 
 Total current assets                                  6,572           9,667           7,646 
---------------------------------  -------  ----------------  --------------  -------------- 
 Total assets                                         44,294          53,873          45,322 
---------------------------------  -------  ----------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
 Current liabilities 
 Trade and other payables                              6,085           6,168           6,648 
 Defined benefit pension 
  obligation                                              77              84              76 
 Bank loan/RCF                          11             2,910           2,200           3,373 
 Lease liability                        11               597           1,640             678 
 Liabilities directly associated                           -           3,101               - 
  with assets classified as 
  held for resale 
 Total current liabilities                             9,669          13,193          10,775 
 Non-current liabilities 
 Deferred tax liability                                    -               -               - 
 Pension obligation                                      312             232             249 
 Bank loan/RCF                          11               621           2,800           1,342 
 Lease liability                        11             1,583           4,153           1,202 
 Total non-current liabilities                         2,516           7,185           2,793 
---------------------------------  -------  ----------------  --------------  -------------- 
 Capital and reserves 
 Issued capital                         12             6,708           6,708           6,708 
 Share premium                                         1,067           1,067           1,067 
 Retained profit/(loss)                               10,700          12,033          10,347 
 Redemption reserve                                   13,680          13,680          13,680 
 Translation reserve                                   (122)            (28)           (124) 
 Other reserves                                         (28)             (6)               3 
 Share option reserve                                    104              41              73 
 Total equity                                         32,109          33,495          31,754 
 Total equity and liabilities                         44,294          53,873          45,322 
---------------------------------  -------  ----------------  --------------  -------------- 
 

* Comparative figures for the financial position as at 30 September 2022 have been restated to present deferred tax assets within Non-current assets as outlined in Note 16.

The notes on pages 13 to 27 form part of these unaudited interim results.

Condensed consolidated statement of changes in equity

For the half year ended 30 September 2023

 
 
                                     Share                   Capital                                    Share            Total 
                       Share       premium    Retained    redemption    Translation       Other        option    shareholders' 
                     capital    reserve(1)    earnings    reserve(2)     reserve(3)    reserves    reserve(4)            funds 
   Unaudited         GBP'000       GBP'000     GBP'000       GBP'000        GBP'000     GBP'000       GBP'000          GBP'000 
-----------------  ---------  ------------  ----------  ------------  -------------  ----------  ------------  --------------- 
 
 
 At 1 April 2022       6,708         1,067      13,032        13,680           (49)        (42)            10           34,406 
 Total 
 comprehensive 
 income: 
   Loss for the 
    six-month 
    period 
    to 30 
    September 
    2022                   -             -       (999)             -              -                         -            (999) 
   Currency 
    translation 
    differences            -             -           -             -             21           -             -               21 
   Remeasurement 
    of defined 
    benefits 
    obligations            -             -           -             -              -          36             -               36 
 
 Share-based 
  payments                 -             -           -             -              -           -            31               31 
 
 At 30 September 
  2022                 6,708         1,067      12,033        13,680           (28)         (6)            41           33,495 
-----------------  ---------  ------------  ----------  ------------  -------------  ----------  ------------  --------------- 
 
 Total 
 comprehensive 
 income: 
   Loss for the 
    six-month 
    period 
    to 31 March 
    2023                   -             -     (1,686)             -              -                         -          (1,686) 
   Currency 
    translation 
    differences            -             -           -             -           (96)           -             -             (96) 
   Remeasurement 
    of defined 
    benefits 
    obligations            -             -           -             -              -           9             -                9 
 
 Share-based 
  payments                 -             -           -             -              -           -            32               32 
 
 At 31 March 2023      6,708         1,067      10,347        13,680          (124)           3            73           31,754 
-----------------  ---------  ------------  ----------  ------------  -------------  ----------  ------------  --------------- 
 
 Total 
 comprehensive 
 income: 
   Profit for the 
    six-month 
    period 
    to 30 
    September 
    2023                   -             -         353             -              -                         -              353 
   Currency 
    translation 
    differences            -             -           -             -              2           -             -                2 
   Remeasurement 
    of defined 
    benefits 
    obligations            -             -           -             -              -        (31)             -             (31) 
 
 Share-based 
  payments                 -             -           -             -              -           -            31               31 
-----------------  ---------  ------------  ----------  ------------  -------------  ----------  ------------  --------------- 
 At 30 September 
  2023                 6,708         1,067      10,700        13,680          (122)        (28)           104           32,109 
-----------------  ---------  ------------  ----------  ------------  -------------  ----------  ------------  --------------- 
 

1 The share premium reserve represents the amount paid to the Company by shareholders above the nominal value of shares issued.

2 The capital redemption reserve is a non-distributable reserve created on cancellation of deferred shares.

3 The translation reserve comprises foreign currency translation differences arising from the translation of financial statements of the Group's foreign entities into Sterling.

4 The share option reserve represents the cumulative expense recognised in relation to equity-settled share-based payments.

The notes on pages 13 to 27 form part of these unaudited interim results.

Condensed consolidated statement of cash flows

For the half year ended 30 September 2023

 
                                                   Unaudited    Unaudited        Audited 
                                                   Half year    Half year     Year ended 
                                           Note        ended        ended    31 Mar 2023 
                                                     30 Sept      30 Sept        GBP'000 
                                                        2023         2022 
                                                     GBP'000      GBP'000 
 
 Cash generated by operations                 7          836            6          1,325 
 Taxation paid                                         (181)        (163)          (429) 
--------------------------------------  -------  -----------  -----------  ------------- 
 Net cash (used in)/generated 
  from operating activities                              655        (157)            896 
--------------------------------------  -------  -----------  -----------  ------------- 
 Cash flows from investing 
  activities 
 Interest and similar income 
  received                                                18           40             77 
 Additions to intangible assets                         (94)        (108)          (175) 
 Additions to property, plant 
  and equipment                                        (128)        (132)           (69) 
 Acquisition of investments                             (24)            -              - 
 Proceeds from disposal of Associates                      -          410            654 
 Proceeds on disposal of operations                        -            -          3,846 
 Repayment of long-term loan 
  by Associate                                             -           70            210 
--------------------------------------  -------  -----------  -----------  ------------- 
 Net cash raised/(used) in 
  investing activities                                 (228)          280          4,543 
--------------------------------------  -------  -----------  -----------  ------------- 
 
 Cash flows from financing 
  activities 
 Interest and similar expenses 
  paid                                                 (215)        (153)          (378) 
 Payment of lease liabilities                          (494)        (967)        (1,901) 
 Payment on disposal of lease 
  liabilities                                            462            -        (3,683) 
 Net drawdowns/(repayments) 
  of bank facility                                   (1,184)          622            337 
 Net cash raised/(used) in 
  financing activities                               (1,431)        (498)        (5,625) 
--------------------------------------  -------  -----------  -----------  ------------- 
 Net decrease in cash and cash 
  equivalents                                        (1,004)        (375)          (186) 
 Opening cash and cash equivalents                     2,144        2,321          2,321 
 Effect of exchange rate fluctuations 
  on cash held                                          (71)        (112)              9 
--------------------------------------  -------  -----------  -----------  ------------- 
 Closing cash at bank                                  1,069        1,834          2,144 
--------------------------------------  -------  -----------  -----------  ------------- 
 
 
 
   Comprised of: 
 Cash and cash equivalents                             1,069        1,834          2,144 
 Closing cash at bank                                  1,069        1,834          2,144 
--------------------------------------  -------  -----------  -----------  ------------- 
 

The notes on pages 13 to 27 form part of these unaudited interim results.

   1.    General information 

Nature of operations

The principal activities of Merit Group plc and its subsidiaries (the "Group") is the creation and aggregation of high-quality data and intelligence information and the provision of data technology services.

The Group operates primarily in the UK, Europe and India.

Merit Group plc is a Company incorporated in England and Wales and listed on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) in London. The registered office of the Company and head office of the Group is 9(th) Floor, The Shard, 32 London Bridge Street, London SE1 9SG.

Basis of preparation

This condensed set of financial statements has been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 Interim Financial Reporting as adopted by the UK. The annual financial statements of the Group are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) in conformity with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006. As required by AIM Rules, the condensed set of financial statements has been prepared applying accounting policies and presentation that were applied in the preparation of the Group's published consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2023.

The condensed consolidated financial statements are neither audited in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) nor subject to review as per International Standard on Review Engagements (ISRE) 2410. The comparative figures for the year ended 31 March 2023 have been extracted from the Group's statutory accounts for that financial period. Those accounts have been reported on by the Company's auditor and delivered to the registrar of companies. The report of the auditor was (i) 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.

Going concern

The Directors have considered the financial projections of the Group, including cash flow forecasts and the availability of committed bank facilities for the coming 12 months. They are satisfied that the Group has adequate resources for the foreseeable future and that it is appropriate to continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing these interim financial statements.

Approval date

The condensed set of interim financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis and were approved by the Board on 7 November 2023.

   2.    Critical accounting estimates and judgements 

When preparing financial statements, the Group makes estimates and judgements concerning the future. These estimates and judgements are typically based on historical experience and expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable at the time. In the future, by definition, actual events and experience may deviate from these estimates and judgements.

The Directors considered the critical accounting judgements and estimates applied in the condensed consolidated financial statements were the same as those applied in the Group's last statutory accounts for the year ended 31 March 2023.

   3.    Segmental information 

Business segments

The Group considers that it has two operating business segments, Merit Data & Technology (MD&T) and Dods, plus a (non-revenue generating) central corporate segment.

The Merit Data & Technology business segment focuses on the provision of data and intelligence, including marketing data, and the provision of data-related technology, including data engineering, machine learning, software development, and technology resourcing.

The Dods business segment concentrates on the provision of key information and insights into the political and public policy environments around the UK and the European Union.

The central corporate segment contains the activities and costs associated with the Group's head office and PLC listing.

The following table provides an analysis of the Group's segment revenue by business segment.

 
                                                 Unaudited 
                                 Unaudited       Half year         Audited 
                                 Half year           ended      Year ended 
   Continuing Operations(1)          ended         30 Sept     31 Mar 2023 
                                   30 Sept            2022         GBP'000 
                                      2023    (restated(1) 
                                   GBP'000               ) 
                                                   GBP'000 
----------------------------  ------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
 Merit Data & Technology             6,376           5,626          11,644 
 Dods                                3,523           3,429           6,941 
                                     9,899           9,055          18,585 
----------------------------  ------------  --------------  -------------- 
 

No client accounted for more than 10 percent of total revenue.

 
                                                   Unaudited 
   Group Revenue by stream         Unaudited       Half year         Audited 
                                   Half year           ended      Year ended 
   Continuing Operations(1)            ended     30 Sep 2022     31 Mar 2023 
                                 30 Sep 2023    (restated(1)         GBP'000 
                                     GBP'000               ) 
                                                     GBP'000 
----------------------------  --------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
 Data and Intelligence                 3,414           2,981           6,743 
 Data Technology                       2,962           2,645           4,901 
 Political Intelligence                3,523           3,429           6,941 
                                       9,899           9,055          18,585 
----------------------------  --------------  --------------  -------------- 
 

(1) Prior periods have been restated to present Continuing Operations only as outlined in Note 5.

 
 
   Unaudited half year ended                 MD&T        Dods     Central       Total 
   30 Sep 2023                             30 Sep      30 Sep      30 Sep      30 Sep 
   Business segment profit before            2023        2023        2023        2023 
   tax                                    GBP'000     GBP'000     GBP'000     GBP'000 
 
   Continuing Operations 
-------------------------------------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ---------- 
 Adjusted EBITDA                            1,241       1,087       (499)       1,829 
 Depreciation of property, 
  plant and equipment                        (55)        (33)           -        (88) 
 Depreciation of right-of-use 
  assets                                    (260)       (146)           -       (406) 
 Amortisation of intangible 
  assets acquired through business 
  combinations                              (255)        (39)           -       (294) 
 Amortisation of software intangible 
  assets                                        -       (142)           -       (142) 
 Share based payments                           -           -        (31)        (31) 
 Operating profit/(loss)                      671         727       (530)         868 
 Net finance income/(expense)                (80)        (45)       (214)       (339) 
-------------------------------------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ---------- 
 Profit/(loss) before tax 
  from Continuing Operations                  591         682       (744)         529 
-------------------------------------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ---------- 
 
 
 
   Unaudited half year ended                                  Dods                         Total 
   30 Sep 2022 
    Business segment profit before           MD&T           30 Sep     Central            30 Sep 
    tax 
                                           30 Sep             2022      30 Sep              2022 
    Continuing Operations(1)                 2022     (restated(1)        2022      (restated(1) 
                                                                 )                             ) 
                                          GBP'000          GBP'000     GBP'000           GBP'000 
-------------------------------------  ----------  ---------------  ----------  ---------------- 
 Adjusted EBITDA                              733              907       (542)             1,098 
 Depreciation of property, 
  plant and equipment                       (140)            (161)           -             (301) 
 Depreciation of right-of-use 
  assets                                    (281)            (211)       (169)             (661) 
 Amortisation of intangible 
  assets acquired through business 
  combinations                              (255)             (39)           -             (294) 
 Amortisation of software intangible 
  assets                                        -            (161)           -             (161) 
 Share based payments                           -                -        (31)              (31) 
 Non-recurring items 
  People-related costs                       (34)             (23)        (93)             (150) 
  Other non-recurring items                     -             (48)        (25)              (73) 
-------------------------------------  ----------  ---------------  ----------  ---------------- 
 Operating profit/(loss)                       23              264      ( 860)             (573) 
 Net finance income/(expense)                  45               11          12                68 
 Share of profit of Associate                   -                -         252               252 
-------------------------------------  ----------  ---------------  ----------  ---------------- 
 Profit/(loss) before tax 
  from Continuing Operations                   68              275      ( 596)             (253) 
-------------------------------------  ----------  ---------------  ----------  ---------------- 
 

(1) Prior periods have been restated to present Continuing Operations only as outlined in Note 5.

 
 
   Audited year ended 31 Mar                 MD&T        Dods     Central       Total 
   2023                                    31 Mar      31 Mar      31 Mar      31 Mar 
   Business segment profit before            2023        2023        2023        2023 
   tax                                    GBP'000     GBP'000     GBP'000     GBP'000 
 
   Continuing Operations 
-------------------------------------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ---------- 
 Adjusted EBITDA                            1,809       1,838       (995)       2,652 
 Depreciation of property, 
  plant and equipment                       (252)       (368)           -       (620) 
 Depreciation of right-of-use 
  assets                                    (552)       (517)       (244)     (1,313) 
 Amortisation of intangible 
  assets acquired through business 
  combinations                              (510)        (77)           -       (587) 
 Amortisation of software intangible 
  assets                                        -       (314)           -       (314) 
 Share based payments                           -           -        (63)        (63) 
 Non-recurring items 
  Profits and losses on disposals               -           -     (3.230)     (3,230) 
  People-related costs                       (35)          10        (98)       (123) 
  Other non-recurring items                     -           -        (62)        (62) 
-------------------------------------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ---------- 
 Operating profit/(loss)                      460         572     (4,692)     (3,660) 
 Net finance income/(expense)                  83       (226)       (106)       (249) 
 Share of profit of Associate                   -           -         252         252 
-------------------------------------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ---------- 
 Profit/(loss) before tax 
  from Continuing Operations                  543         346     (4,546)     (3,657) 
-------------------------------------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ---------- 
 
   4.    Non-recurring items 
 
                                                                   Unaudited 
                                                   Unaudited       Half year         Audited 
                                                   Half year           ended      Year ended 
                                                       ended     30 Sep 2022     31 Mar 2023 
   Continuing Operations(1)                      30 Sep 2023    (restated(1)         GBP'000 
                                                     GBP'000               ) 
                                                                     GBP'000 
-------------------------------------------  ---------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
 Transaction-related non-recurring 
  items: 
  Loss on disposal of investments 
   in Associates                                           -               -           (303) 
  Loss on disposal of Shard lease                          -               -         (2,927) 
                                             ---------------  --------------  -------------- 
 Profits and losses on disposals                           -               -         (3,230) 
 People-related costs                                      -           (150)           (123) 
 Other: 
   - Professional services and consultancy                 -            (73)            (62) 
                                                           -           (223)         (3,415) 
 -----------------------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
 

(1) Prior periods have been restated to present Continuing Operations only as outlined in Note 5.

People-related costs incurred in prior periods include deferred cash consideration on the acquisition of Meritgroup Limited. Also included are redundancy costs reflecting the effect of Group initiatives to appropriately restructure the business.

Other non-recurring costs incurred in prior periods relate to one-off consultancy and professional fees associated with the rental review of the London premises.

   5.    Disposal 

On 30 November 2022, the Group completed the disposal of the Media, Events and Training operations of its Dods segment (together, the "MET Operations") for a cash consideration of GBP4.5 million to Political Holdings Limited. These activities were treated as Discontinued Operations within the unaudited interim results for the period to 30 September 2022, as reported on 1 December 2022.

On 12 January 2023, the Group completed the disposal of the trade and assets of Le Trombinoscope SAS, the Paris-based activities of the Dods segment ("Le Trombinoscope"), to Trombimedia Limited for GBP0.1 million cash consideration. These activities are also treated as Discontinued Operations.

The activities of the MET Operations and Le Trombinoscope have been classified as Discontinued Operations within the Consolidated income statement and therefore excluded from the presentation of items on a Continuing Operations basis. The unaudited half year for the period to 30 September 2022, which included 6 months of both MET operations and Le Trombinoscope, was previously presented to exclude the MET Operations as Discontinued. It has now been further restated to also exclude Le Trombinoscope as Discontinued Operations.

The results of the Discontinued Operation for the year ended 31 March 2023, which include the results of the MET operations for 8 months and Le Trombinoscope for 9.5 months, are unchanged from previously reported on 6 September 2023.

The results of the Discontinued Operations are as follows:

 
                                                               Unaudited 
                                               Unaudited       Half year         Audited 
                                               Half year           ended      Year ended 
   Discontinued Operations                         ended    30 Sept 2022     31 Mar 2023 
                                                 30 Sept     (restated*)         GBP'000 
                                                    2023         GBP'000 
                                                 GBP'000 
-----------------------------------------  -------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
 Revenue                                               -           4,944           6,913 
 Cost of sales                                         -         (4,154)         (5,861) 
-----------------------------------------  -------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
   Gross profit                                        -             790           1,052 
 
 Administrative expenses                               -         (1,325)         (1,450) 
 
   Operating loss                                      -           (535)           (398) 
 
   Memorandum: 
 
   Adjusted EBITDA                                     -           (287)            (69) 
 
   Depreciation of property, plant 
   and equipment                                       -            (45)            (58) 
 Depreciation of right-of-use 
  assets                                               -            (19)            (25) 
 Amortisation of intangible assets 
  acquired through business combinations               -           (137)           (183) 
 Amortisation of software intangible 
  assets                                               -             (2)             (8) 
 Non-recurring items: people-related 
  costs                                                -            (45)            (55) 
 
   Operating loss                                      -           (535)           (398) 
 
 Net finance expense                                   -            (29)            (66) 
 Loss before tax                                       -           (564)           (464) 
 
   Income tax credit                                   -               -              58 
-----------------------------------------  -------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
   Loss for the period from Discontinued 
   Operations                                          -           (564)           (406) 
 
   Profit on disposal of Discontinued 
   Operations after tax                                -               -           1,290 
-----------------------------------------  -------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
   (Loss)/Profit from Discontinued 
   Operations for the period                           -           (564)             884 
-----------------------------------------  -------------  --------------  -------------- 
 

* Comparative figures for the half year ended 30 September 2022 have been restated to remove Discontinued Operations as above.

Cashflows generated by the Discontinued Operation for the period were as follows:

 
                                                              Unaudited 
                                              Unaudited       Half year         Audited 
                                              Half year           ended      Year ended 
   Discontinued Operations                        ended    30 Sept 2022     31 Mar 2023 
                                                30 Sept     (restated*)         GBP'000 
                                                   2023         GBP'000 
                                                GBP'000 
----------------------------------------  -------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
 Net cash (outflow) from operating 
  activities                                          -           (594)         (1,621) 
 Net cash (outflow)/inflow from 
  investing activities                                -             (2)           3,846 
 Net cash (outflow) from financing 
  activities                                          -            (48)            (95) 
----------------------------------------  -------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
   Net increase/(decrease) in cash, 
   cash equivalents and bank overdrafts 
   from Discontinued Operations                       -           (644)           2,130 
----------------------------------------  -------------  --------------  -------------- 
 

* Comparative figures for the half year ended 30 September 2022 have been restated as above.

   6.   Earnings per share 
 
                                                                  Unaudited 
                                                  Unaudited       Half year         Audited 
                                                  Half year           ended      Year ended 
                                                      ended     30 Sep 2022     31 Mar 2023 
   Continuing Operations(1)                     30 Sep 2023    (restated(1)         GBP'000 
                                                    GBP'000               ) 
                                                                    GBP'000 
-------------------------------------------  --------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
 Profit/(loss) attributable 
  to shareholders                                       353           (435)         (3,569) 
 Add: non-recurring items                                 -             223           3,415 
 Add: amortisation of intangible 
  assets acquired through business 
  combinations                                          294             294             587 
 Add: net exchange losses/(gains)                        79           (230)           (297) 
 Add: share-based payment (credit)/expense               31              31              63 
-------------------------------------------  --------------  --------------  -------------- 
 Adjusted post-tax profit/(loss) 
  from Continuing Operations 
  attributable to shareholders                          757           (117)             199 
-------------------------------------------  --------------  --------------  -------------- 
 

(1) Comparative figures for the half year ended 30 September 2022 have been restated to present Continuing Operations only as outlined in Note 5.

 
                                                          Unaudited 
                                           Unaudited      Half year         Audited 
                                           Half year          ended      Year ended 
                                               ended    30 Sep 2022     31 Mar 2023 
   Discontinued Operations               30 Sep 2023    (restated*)         GBP'000 
                                             GBP'000        GBP'000 
-----------------------------------  ---------------  -------------  -------------- 
 
 (Loss)/profit attributable to 
  shareholders                                     -          (564)             884 
 Add: non-recurring items                          -             45         (2,019) 
 Add: amortisation of intangible 
  assets acquired through business 
  combinations                                     -            137             183 
 Adjusted post-tax profit/(loss) 
  from Discontinued Operations 
  attributable to shareholders                     -          (382)           (952) 
-----------------------------------  ---------------  -------------  -------------- 
 

* Comparative figures for the half year ended 30 September 2022 have been restated as outlined in Note 5.

 
                                        Unaudited       Unaudited        Audited 
                                  Half year ended       Half year     Year ended 
                                     30 Sept 2023           ended    31 Mar 2023 
                                  Ordinary shares    30 Sept 2022       Ordinary 
                                                         Ordinary         shares 
                                                           shares 
------------------------------  -----------------  --------------  ------------- 
 
 Weighted average number 
  of shares 
 In issue during the period 
  - basic                              23,956,124      23,956,124     23,956,124 
 Adjustment for share options                   -               -              - 
 In issue during the period 
  - diluted                            23,956,124      23,956,124     23,956,124 
------------------------------  -----------------  --------------  ------------- 
 

Performance Share Plan (PSP) options over 1,420,791 Ordinary shares have not been included in the calculation of diluted EPS for any of the above dates because their exercise is contingent on the satisfaction of certain criteria that had not been met at those dates.

 
                                                             Unaudited 
                                             Unaudited       Half year         Audited 
                                       Half year ended           ended      Year ended 
                                           30 Sep 2023     30 Sep 2022     31 Mar 2023 
   Continuing Operations(1)            Pence per share    (restated(1)       Pence per 
                                                                     )           share 
                                                             Pence per 
                                                                 share 
---------------------------------  -------------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
 Earnings per share - Continuing 
  Operations 
 Basic                                            1.47          (1.82)         (14.90) 
 Diluted                                          1.47          (1.82)         (14.90) 
 Adjusted earnings per share - 
  Continuing Operations 
 Basic                                            3.16          (0.49)            0.83 
 Diluted                                          3.16          (0.49)            0.83 
----------------------------------  ------------------  --------------  -------------- 
 
 

(1) Comparative figures for the half year ended 30 September 2022 have been restated to present Continuing Operations only as outlined in Note 5.

 
                                                                         Unaudited 
                                                          Unaudited      Half year         Audited 
   Discontinued Operations                          Half year ended          ended      Year ended 
                                                        30 Sep 2023    30 Sep 2022     31 Mar 2023 
                                                    Pence per share    (restated*)       Pence per 
                                                                         Pence per           share 
                                                                             share 
--------------------------------------------  ---------------------  -------------  -------------- 
 
 Earnings per share - Discontinued 
  Operations 
 Basic                                                            -         (2.35)            3.69 
 Diluted                                                          -         (2.35)            3.69 
 Adjusted earnings per share - Discontinued 
  Operations 
 Basic                                                            -         (1.59)          (3.97) 
 Diluted                                                          -         (1.59)          (3.97) 
----------------------------------------------  -------------------  -------------  -------------- 
 
 

* Comparative figures for the half year ended 30 September 2022 have been restated as outlined in Note 5.

 
                                       Unaudited      Unaudited        Audited 
                                 Half year ended      Half year     Year ended 
                                     30 Sep 2023          ended    31 Mar 2023 
   TOTAL                         Pence per share    30 Sep 2022      Pence per 
                                                      Pence per          share 
                                                          share 
-----------------------------  -----------------  -------------  ------------- 
 
 Earnings per share 
 Basic                                      1.47         (4.17)        (11.21) 
 Diluted                                    1.47         (4.17)        (11.21) 
 Adjusted earnings per share 
 Basic                                      3.16         (2.08)         (3.14) 
 Diluted                                    3.16         (2.08)         (3.14) 
-----------------------------  -----------------  -------------  ------------- 
 
   7.   Cash generated by operations 
 
                                           Unaudited    Unaudited        Audited 
                                           Half year    Half year     Year ended 
                                               ended        ended    31 Mar 2023 
                                             30 Sept      30 Sept        GBP'000 
                                                2023         2022 
                                             GBP'000      GBP'000 
--------------------------------------   -----------  -----------  ------------- 
 
 Cash flows from operating 
  activities 
 Profit/(loss) for the period                    353        (999)        (2,685) 
 Depreciation of property, plant 
  and equipment                                   88          346            678 
 Depreciation of right-of-use 
  assets                                         406          680          1,338 
 Amortisation of intangible 
  assets acquired through business 
  combinations                                   294          431            770 
 Amortisation of other intangible 
  assets                                         142          163            322 
 Share-based payments charge/(credit)             31           31             63 
 Share of profit of Associate                      -        (252)          (252) 
 Lease interest expense                           64          161            298 
 Profit on disposal of operations 
  (before tax)                                     -            -        (2,074) 
 Loss on disposal of IFRS16 
  finance lease                                    -            -          2,927 
 Loss on disposal and impairment 
  of investments in associates                     -            -            303 
 Interest income                                (18)         (40)           (77) 
 Interest expense                                215          153            378 
 Foreign exchange on operating 
  items                                            4           24              1 
 Income tax charge/(credit)                      176          182            638 
---------------------------------------  -----------  -----------  ------------- 
 Operating cash flows before 
  movement in working capital                  1,755          880          2,628 
 (Increase)/decrease in inventories                            14           (16) 
 (Increase)/decrease in trade 
  and other receivables                        (463)        (422)        (1,520) 
 Decrease in trade and other 
  payables                                     (456)        (466)            233 
---------------------------------------  -----------  -----------  ------------- 
 
   Cash generated by operations                  836            6          1,325 
---------------------------------------  -----------  -----------  ------------- 
 
   8.   Goodwill 
 
                                   Unaudited      Unaudited        Audited 
                                   Half year      Half year     Year ended 
                                       ended          ended    31 Mar 2023 
                                 30 Sep 2023    30 Sep 2022        GBP'000 
                                     GBP'000        GBP'000 
-----------------------------  -------------  -------------  ------------- 
 
 Cost and net book value 
 Opening balance                      26,919         28,911         28,911 
 Disposals in the year                     -              -        (1,992) 
 Reclassified as assets held               -        (1,269)              - 
  for resale 
-----------------------------  -------------  -------------  ------------- 
 Closing balance                      26,919         27,642         26,919 
-----------------------------  -------------  -------------  ------------- 
 
   9.   Intangible assets 
 
                                Assets acquired                        Under 
                               through business                 Construction 
                                   combinations     Software     Capitalised      Total 
                                                                       costs 
                                        GBP'000      GBP'000         GBP'000    GBP'000 
---------------------------  ------------------  -----------  --------------  --------- 
 
 Cost 
 
 At 1 April 2022                         28,042        6,074               -     34,116 
 Transferred from tangible 
  fixed assets                                -            -              70         70 
 Additions - internally 
  generated                                   -          101              74        175 
 Disposals                             (16,833)      (3,999)               -   (20,832) 
 
   At 31 March 2023                      11,209        2,176             144     13,529 
 Additions - internally 
  generated                                   -            -              94         94 
 At 30 September 2023                    11,209        2,176             238     13,623 
---------------------------  ------------------  -----------  --------------  --------- 
 
 
 Accumulated amortisation 
 At 1 April 2023               20,145     4,145   -     24,290 
 Charge for the year              770       322   -      1,092 
 Disposals                   (15,825)   (3,936)   -   (19,761) 
--------------------------  ---------  --------      --------- 
 
   At 31 March 2023             5,090       531   -      5,621 
 Charge for the period            294       142   -        436 
 At 30 September 2023           5,384       673   -      6,057 
--------------------------  ---------  --------      --------- 
 
 
 Net book value 
 At 31 March 2022 - audited    7,897   1,929     -   9,826 
 At 31 March 2023 - audited    6,119   1,645   144   7,908 
----------------------------  ------  ------  ----  ------ 
 At 30 September 2023 
  - unaudited                  5,825   1,503   238   7,566 
----------------------------  ------  ------  ----  ------ 
 

10. Property, plant and equipment

 
                                                    IT Equipment 
                                       Leasehold    and Fixtures 
                                    Improvements    and Fittings     Total 
                                         GBP'000         GBP'000   GBP'000 
------------------------------   ---------------  --------------  -------- 
 
 Cost 
 At 1 April 2022                           2,037           2,521     4,558 
 Transferred to tangible 
  fixed assets                                 -            (70)      (70) 
 Additions                                     -              69        69 
 Foreign exchange differences                  -             (1)       (1) 
 Disposals                               (2,037)         (1,070)   (3,107) 
 
   At 31 March 2023                            -           1,449     1,449 
 Additions                                    21             107       128 
 At 30 September 2023                         21           1,556     1,577 
-------------------------------  ---------------  --------------  -------- 
 
 
 Accumulated depreciation 
 At 1 April 2022                1,128   1,623     2,751 
 Charge for the year              209     469       678 
 Disposals                    (1,337)   (984)   (2,321) 
 
   At 31 March 2023                 -   1,108     1,108 
 Charge for the period              2      86        88 
 At 30 September 2023               2   1,194     1,196 
---------------------------  --------  ------  -------- 
 
 
 Net book value 
 At 31 March 2022 - audited     909   898   1,807 
 At 31 March 2023 - audited       -   341     341 
 At 30 September 2023 - 
  unaudited                      19   362     381 
-----------------------------  ----  ----  ------ 
 

11. Net debt

Net debt comprises the aggregate of loans and borrowings, excluding IFRS16 lease liabilities, and cash and cash equivalents, as follows:

 
                                     Unaudited      Unaudited        Audited 
                                     Half year      Half year     Year ended 
                                         ended          ended    31 Mar 2023 
                                   30 Sep 2023    30 Sep 2022        GBP'000 
                                       GBP'000        GBP'000 
-------------------------------  -------------  -------------  ------------- 
 
 Bank loan / RCF due within 
  one year                               2,910          2,200          3,373 
 Bank loan due after more than 
  one year                                 621          2,800          1,342 
-------------------------------  -------------  -------------  ------------- 
                                         3,531          5,000          4,715 
 Cash and cash equivalents             (1,069)        (1,834)        (2,144) 
-------------------------------  -------------  -------------  ------------- 
 Net Debt                                2,462          3,166          2,571 
-------------------------------  -------------  -------------  ------------- 
 

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings

On 22 July 2022, the Company agreed new secured loan facilities with Barclays which include:

-- Term Loan: a GBP3 million, five-year term loan, amortising on a straight-line basis at GBP150,000 per quarter;

-- RCF: a GBP2 million non-amortising, revolving credit facility for the five-year duration of the Term Loan;

-- Both the Term Loan and RCF accruing interest at 4.75% above Bank of England base rate.

On 1 December 2022, the Company repaid and cancelled GBP2 million of the Term Loan following receipt of the proceeds of disposals.

On 22 March 2023, the Company secured a further GBP1.8 million 18-month Term Loan, amortising on a straight-line basis at GBP300,000 per quarter, in order to fund the disposal of the Company's Shard lease.

12. Leases

 
                             Right-of-use          Lease 
                                   assets    liabilities 
                                  GBP'000        GBP'000 
-------------------------   -------------  ------------- 
 As at 1 April 2022                 5,660        (6,721) 
 Depreciation                     (1,338)              - 
 Lease Interest                         -          (298) 
 Lease payments(1)                      -          1,897 
 Disposal                         (2,448)          3,242 
 As at 31 March 2023                1,874        (1,880) 
 Addition                             730          (730) 
 Depreciation                       (406)              - 
 Lease Interest                         -           (64) 
 Lease payments(1)                      -            494 
 As at 30 September 2023            2,198        (2,180) 
 
 Current                                           (597) 
 Non-current                                     (1,583) 
--------------------------  -------------  ------------- 
 

The Consolidated income statement includes the following amounts relating to leases:

 
                                     Unaudited      Unaudited          Audited 
                               Half year ended      Half year       Year ended 
                                   30 Sep 2023          ended      31 Mar 2023 
                                       GBP'000    30 Sep 2022          GBP'000 
                                                      GBP'000 
 ---------------------------------------------  -------------  --------------- 
 
 Depreciation charge of right-of-use 
  assets                                   406            680          1,338 
 Interest expense (included in finance 
 cost)                                      64            161            298 
----------------------------------------  ----  -------------  ------------- 
 
 

The right-of-use assets relate to office space in four locations and at the balance sheet date have remaining terms ranging up to 7 years.

There were GBPnil of expenses relating to diminutive payments not included in the measurement of lease liabilities (H1 FY23: GBPnil).

Lease liabilities includes liabilities in respect of IT equipment with a cost of GBP77,000 (31 March 2023: GBP77,000). These assets are capitalised within IT equipment (see Note 10).

13. Issued Share Capital

 
                                            28p ordinary 
                                                  shares       Total 
                                                  Number     GBP'000 
-----------------------------------------  -------------  ---------- 
 Issued share capital as at 30 September 
  2022                                        23,956,124       6,708 
-----------------------------------------  -------------  ---------- 
 Issued share capital as at 31 March 
  2023                                        23,956,124       6,708 
-----------------------------------------  -------------  ---------- 
 Issued share capital as at30 September 
  2023                                        23,956,124       6,708 
-----------------------------------------  -------------  ---------- 
 

14. Related party transactions

MET operations

The disposal of the MET Operations on 30 November 2022 was to Political Holdings Limited. Political Holdings Limited is considered a related party as it is controlled by Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC, a substantial shareholder in the Company and Angela Entwistle, a non-executive director of the Company, is a director of Political Holdings Limited.

As part of the disposal of the MET Operations, the Group agreed to provide transitional services to the Political Holdings Limited group of companies covering areas such as occupancy, IT systems and support and finance and accounting services. In total, the group charged GBP293,364 for these services during the period (H1 FY23: GBPnil), which has been recognised as Other Operating Income within the Income Statement. At 30 September 2023, a balance of GBP14,563 (31 March 2023: GBP145,991) was outstanding in respect of invoicing for these services.

Since its acquisition of the MET operations, the Political Holdings Limited group has been a customer of MD&T and was billed GBP56,476 (H1 FY23: GBPnil) during the period for marketing and data services. At 30 September 2023, there was a balance of GBP30,688 (31 March 2023: GBP16,094) due.

Further, as part of the disposal, the Group has continued to act as agent for the Political Holdings Limited group, invoicing customers, collecting book debts and paying for services under contracts which were pending legal novation to Political Holdings Limited group companies. During the period, revenue of GBP887,393 (H1 FY23: GBPnil) was invoiced, cash of GBP1,968,961 (H1 FY23: GBPnil) was collected and payments for purchases and payroll amounting to GBP769,009 (H1 FY23: GBPnil) were made by the Group on behalf of Political Holdings Limited group companies. None of these revenues or costs, all of which arises post disposal are recognised within the Income Statement of the Group. At 30 September 2023, GBP38,957 (31 March 2023: GBP233,053) of funds were held on trust for Political Holdings Limited group companies.

Investments and Associates

During the period, the Group billed GBP125,800 (H1 FY23: GBP131,000) for technology services to Acolyte Resource Group Limited, a company in which the Group had a 13.5% investment, and of which Cornelius Conlon is a Director. At 30 September 2023, there was a balance of GBP78,400 (31 March 2023: GBP64,000) due.

Meritgroup Limited acquisition

On acquisition of Meritgroup Limited, an arm's length non-repairing 7-year lease was entered into between a Merit subsidiary (Letrim Intelligence Services Private Limited) and Merit Software Services Private Limited. Cornelius Conlon, a Director of the Group, is the beneficial owner of Merit Software Services Private Limited. The lease relates to the Chennai office of MD&T. During the period, payments of GBP366,800 (H1 FY23: GBP400,900) were made to Merit Software Services Private Limited in relation to the lease and other property-related costs.

Other related party transactions

During the current and previous period, Deacon Street Partners Limited, a company related by virtue of Angela Entwistle, a Director of the Company also being a Director, invoiced GBP15,000 (H1 FY23: GBP15,000) to the Company for the services of Angela Entwistle as a Non-Executive Director. At 30 September 2023 the balance outstanding was GBP2,500 (31 March 2023: GBP2,500).

System1 Group plc, a company related by virtue of Philip Machray, a Director of the Company also being a Director, is a customer of MD&T and was billed GBP76,700 (H1 FY23: GBP55,900) for Technology Resourcing Services. At 30 September 2023 the balance outstanding was GBP12,100 (31 March 2023: GBP44,400).

15. Subsequent events

On 20 October 2023, the Group received GBP450,000 from Political Holdings Limited, being the deferred consideration receivable on the disposal of the MET Operations on 30 November 2022.

16. Prior period restatement

The consolidated statement of financial position for the period ended 30 September 2022 has been restated to correctly classify deferred tax assets of GBP346,000 as non-current assets. These were previously included within Current assets as part of Trade and other receivables.

The reclassification has no impact on Total assets, Total equity and liabilities or Capital and reserves as at the 30 September 2022, nor the Comprehensive income for the period ended 30 September 2022.

The impact of the reclassification on items within the Consolidated statement of financial position is as follows:

 
                             As previously 
                                  reported     Change   As restated 
 At 30 September 2022              GBP'000    GBP,000       GBP'000 
 Total non-current assets           43,860        346        44,206 
 
   Current assets                    6,422      (346)         6,076 
 Assets held for resale              3,591          -         3,591 
--------------------------  --------------  ---------  ------------ 
 Total current assets               10,013      (346)         9,667 
 
   Total assets                     53,873          -        53,873 
--------------------------  --------------  ---------  ------------ 
 

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END

IR BRBFTMTAMBAJ

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

November 08, 2023 02:00 ET (07:00 GMT)

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