TIDMSGI

RNS Number : 3917D

Stanley Gibbons Group PLC

28 March 2014

THE STANLEY GIBBONS GROUP PLC

 
 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   28 March 2014 
 

THE STANLEY GIBBONS GROUP PLC ("the Company" or "the Group")

Interim Results for the six months and twelve months to 31 December 2013

The Company today announces its interim results for the six months and twelve months to 31 December 2013.

Key Financial Highlights

-- Sales up 16% for the six months to 31 December 2013 to GBP24.3m (2012: GBP20.9m) and up 16% for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 to GBP41.6m (2012: GBP35.6m)

-- Total revenues generated online for the six months to 31 December 2013 of GBP2.3m, representing 9% of total revenue and for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 were GBP3.5m, representing 8% of total revenue

-- Trading profits* for the six months to 31 December 2013 up 9% to GBP4.6m (2012: GBP4.2m) and for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 were up 9% to GBP6.9m (2012: GBP6.3m)

-- Investment in online developments expensed to the profit and loss account in the six months to 31 December 2013 of GBP0.8m (2012: GBP0.2m) and for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 were GBP1.3m (2012: GBP0.3m)

-- Adjusted profit before tax** for the six months to 31 December 2013 of GBP3.8m (2012: GBP4.1m) and for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 was GBP5.6m (2012: GBP6.0m)

-- Adjusted earnings per share for the six months to 31 December 2013 of 11.19p (2012: 14.21p) and for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 were 16.77p (2012: 21.44p)

-- Second interim dividend declared of 4.00p per share (2012: 3.75p), up 6%, (payable on 27 May 2014 to all holders on the Share Register at the close of business on 11 April 2014)

   --      Net cash position increased by GBP9.5m in the six months to 31 December 2013 to GBP17.3m 

-- Stock at 31 December 2013 stated at historic cost of GBP30.6m (31 December 2012: GBP20.7m) providing a strong asset base to deliver future growth in trading profits

*Excludes investment on internet development, exceptional operating charges and actuarial accounting adjustments

**Excludes exceptional operating charges and actuarial accounting adjustments

Key Operational Highlights

-- The work to create a global online collectibles trading platform is progressing well and the Group is targeting the launch of the Stanley Gibbons branded online marketplace in the second half of 2014 - testing on core functionality to begin in April 2014

-- Completion of acquisition of Noble Investments (UK) plc ("Noble") in November 2013 for a total consideration of GBP45m. The cash element of the consideration was funded by the proceeds of new shares with new and existing institutional shareholders, raising GBP40m

-- Continued building of brand presence internationally with new office opened in Singapore in April 2013 to complement our Hong Kong office and to broaden our base in the lucrative collectibles market in the Far East

-- Auction services substantially strengthened with the acquisitions of Noble and Murray Payne enabling the enlarged Group to apply its combined expertise, systems and client reach to deliver a superior auctions service to both buyers and sellers

-- Growth in sales of other collectibles for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 benefited from the acquisition of Noble with cross selling between Stanley Gibbons and Baldwin's high net worth clients in respect of rare coins

-- The stable returns being generated from the collectibles market at the same time as the falling price of gold during 2013 has resulted in some investors turning to collectibles as an alternative means of investing in a tangible asset as part of a well diversified investment strategy

Outlook

-- The primary focus remains on launching the Stanley Gibbons branded online marketplace in the second half of this year with the expected future growth in online commission revenues earned in an agency capacity representing the key growth opportunity for the Group

-- It is expected that a wider range of cross selling opportunities between Stanley Gibbons and Noble will further increase sales in the current year

-- Integration cost savings across the enlarged Group and the implementation of improved efficiencies are expected to deliver benefits later in 2014

-- We intend to continue to deliver a first class service to those individuals looking to invest in the collectibles market supported by the prevailing health of the collectibles market, which is driven by a global base of passionate collectors

-- We remain committed, as an integral element of our overall strategy, to building our brand presence internationally. We are currently actively investigating potential opportunities in Geneva (Switzerland), New York (US) and Sydney (Australia).

Martin Bralsford, Chairman, commented:

"The performance of the Group in the six months and twelve months to 31 December 2013 was in line with market expectations with turnover up 16% and trading profits up 9%. This result was achieved despite significant management focus being directed towards the successful completion of the strategically important acquisition of the Noble group and ensuring that online technical projects remained on track.

The Group's strong balance sheet position including net cash of GBP17.3m and a high quality stockholding of rare stamps and collectibles stated at a historic cost of GBP30.6m provides a substantial capital base from which to invest in further growth opportunities identified by the Board.

Despite substantial opportunities to reinvest profits in future growth, the Board has increased the total dividend for the twelve months to 31 December by 8% on last year.

The most exciting event of the current year is in the impending launch of our online collectibles marketplace where the Board believes there are opportunities, further enhanced by the acquisition of Noble, to deliver substantial online revenues from the global collectibles market."

For further information, contact:

The Stanley Gibbons Group plc

 
 Michael Hall, Chief Executive         +44 (0) 1534 766711 
 Donal Duff, Chief Finance Officer 
 
 Peel Hunt LLP, NOMAD/Broker 
 Dan Webster/Matthew Armitt/Richard 
  Brown                                +44 (0) 20 7418 8900 
 
 Tavistock Communications 
 John West/Teresa Towner               +44 (0) 20 7920 3150 
 
 
 

Chairman's Statement

Change of Accounting Reference Date

As part of the integration of the recently acquired Noble Investments (UK) plc ("Noble"), the financial year end of The Stanley Gibbons Group plc was moved from 31 December to 31 March. The Board believes that the change in accounting reference date will provide management with an improved level of visibility of the performance of the enlarged Group throughout the financial calendar. As a result, this report relates to the interim unaudited results for the six month period to 31 December 2013. The audited results for the fifteen month period to 31 March 2014 will be announced at the end of June 2014.

Introduction

The Group delivered a strong trading performance in the six month period to 31 December 2013, showing a 16% increase in sales and a 9% increase in trading profits. This result was achieved despite significant management focus being directed towards the successful completion of the strategically important acquisition of the Noble group and ensuring that online technical projects remained on track in the period.

As a result of the continued planned investment in our online strategy, focused primarily on launching a global collectibles trading platform, statutory profit before tax for the six month period to 31 December 2013 was lower than the prior period.

The Group balance sheet position at 31 December 2013 includes net cash of GBP17.3m (31 December 2012: GBP6.8m) and a high quality stockholding of rare stamps and collectibles stated at a historic cost of GBP30.6m (31 December 2012: GBP20.7m). The strength of the balance sheet provides the Group with a substantial capital base from which to invest in further growth opportunities identified by the Board.

Financials

Turnover for the six months to 31 December 2013 was GBP24.3m, up 16% on the prior period. Turnover for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 was GBP41.6m, also up 16%.

Trading profits were GBP4.6m for the six months to 31 December 2013 (2012: GBP4.2m), up 9% and profits for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 were GBP6.9m (2012: GBP6.3m), up 9%. The net investment in our online development project expensed to the profit and loss account in the six months to 31 December 2013 was GBP0.8m (2012: GBP0.2m) resulting in a net total investment for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 of GBP1.3m (2012: GBP0.3m). The investment in our online development project was in line with plan and financed by the fundraising of GBP6m in November 2012. Consequently, this investment does not have any impact on the underlying trading performance of the Group.

Profit before tax for the six month period to 31 December 2013, after charging internet development costs, but before exceptional charges and actuarial accounting adjustments, was GBP3.8m (2012: GBP4.1m) reflecting the increased investment in the development of our online strategy in the period. Adjusted profit before tax for the twelve month period to 31 December 2013 was GBP5.6m (2012: GBP6.0m).

Adjusted earnings per share for the six month period to 31 December 2013 were 11.19p (2012: 14.21p). Adjusted earnings per share for the twelve month period to 31 December 2013 were 16.77p (2012: 21.44p).

Dividend

Your Board is pleased to declare a second interim dividend, in respect of the six month period to 31 December 2013, of 4.00p (2012: 3.75p), representing a 6% increase on the equivalent period last year. The second interim dividend is payable on 27 May 2014 to holders on the Register at the close of business on the record date of 11 April 2014. The increase in the dividend declared is supported by the rise in underlying trading profits for the period.

This gives a total dividend from earnings for the twelve month period to 31 December 2013 of 7.00p (2012: 6.50p), an increase of 8% on last year.

Key Operational Highlights and Outlook

Online

Total online sales for the six month period to 31 December 2013 were GBP2.3m, representing 9% of total revenue and for the twelve month period to 31 December 2013 were GBP3.5m, 8% of total revenue. Our online technical development projects, which are focused on launching a global collectibles trading platform, are progressing well. Testing will begin on the core functionality supporting the online trading platform in April 2014, with an aim to launch the Stanley Gibbons branded online marketplace in the second half of 2014.

Overseas development

Our office in Hong Kong contributed total sales of GBP3.3m (2012: GBP2.6m) and profits of GBP0.7m (2012: GBP0.6m) in the twelve month period to 31 December 2013. The Hong Kong operation trades primarily to local residents. We intend to invest further in this market in the current year including investing in new premises where we can showcase a selection of our high quality collectibles and deliver a more professional presentation of our brand. We also intend to increase our efforts to attract business to the Hong Kong office from Mainland China, representing a much larger potential market.

Our office in Singapore, which opened at the end of April 2013, contributed sales of GBP0.2m with a net loss of GBP0.1m to 31 December 2013. We believe the Singapore office will prove to be an important element of our presence in the Far East although it takes times to build brand awareness and client relationships. We expect to improve sales and profit contribution from the Singapore office in the current year.

We remain committed, as an integral element of our overall strategy, to building our brand presence internationally. We believe that a physical presence in key geographical areas is fundamental to our core trading principle of building long term relationships with our clients to span generations by delivering a professional and personal service.

We are currently actively investigating potential opportunities in Geneva (Switzerland), New York (US) and Sydney (Australia).

Auctions

Revenues from Stanley Gibbons auctions were substantially lower in the six months to 31 December 2013 due to the rescheduling of the December public auction into February 2014. Despite the absence of this planned sale, auction revenues were broadly in line with the prior period for the 12 months to 31 December 2013 due to a strong first half performance.

Following the recent acquisitions of Noble and Murray Payne, our auction business represents a key element of our brand and an area where a much larger proportion of our future profitability is expected to be derived.

The Noble acquisition comprises Baldwin's (the globally respected brand in coins, established in 1872), Dreweatts (an auctioneer of antiques and collectibles such as watches, fine wine and jewellery, established in 1759), Bloomsbury (a leading auctioneer of books, manuscripts and art) and Apex Philatelics. Murray Payne is the recognised world's leading dealer in British Commonwealth King George VI stamps. The enlarged Group comprises quality heritage brands with leading reputations in their respective fields. When backed by the worldwide respect of the Stanley Gibbons brand and our financial strength and expertise, these businesses are able to deliver a superior auction service to both sellers and buyers.

Other collectibles

The implementation of the Group's progressive strategy to diversify into other quality collectibles during the twelve month period to 31 December 2013 resulted in an increase in sales of other collectibles of 61% to GBP9.7m. Other collectibles now represents 23% of total Group sales compared to 17% last year.

The primary area of growth was delivered from the acquisition of Noble in November 2013 showing some immediate benefits in respect of cross selling rare coins between Stanley Gibbons and Baldwin's high net worth clients. It is expected that a wider range of cross selling opportunities across the enlarged Group will further increase sales of other collectibles in the current year.

Investment services

Demand for premium quality collectibles from collectors remains strong resulting in regularly higher prices being realised at auction globally during the twelve month period to 31 December 2013. The stable returns being generated from the collectibles market at the same time as the falling price of gold during 2013 has resulted in some investors turning to collectibles as an alternative means of investing in a tangible asset as part of a well diversified investment strategy.

Our strategy of attracting new clients to collectibles through our highly effective marketing, networking and PR worldwide continues to deliver acceptable returns. This is particularly borne out by the number of our investment clients recruited in recent years that have become more "collector" than "investor".

Board

I was saddened to announce in October last year the death of General Sir Michael Wilkes KCB, CBE, non-executive director of the Company. Michael had served on the Company's Board since January 2008 and additionally as Chairman of its Remuneration and member of its Audit Committees. His contribution in these roles cannot be overstated. His personal support to me, his Board colleagues, and management and staff was above and beyond that which could be hoped for - a characteristic of every aspect of his life.

I am pleased to welcome Ian Goldbart to the Board as an executive director, who joined us following the acquisition of Noble. Ian was previously Chief Executive of Noble prior to its sale to Stanley Gibbons and brings with him a wealth of expertise in the field of numismatics. Ian will head up our dealing and auctions businesses in the UK as Managing Director. I, and my fellow Board members, look forward to working with Ian in the years ahead to taking the enlarged Group to new levels of success.

Martin Bralsford, Chairman

27 March 2014

Operating Review

 
                                    6 months to      6 months to     12 months to     12 months to 
                                    31 December      31 December      31 December      31 December 
                                           2013             2012             2013             2012 
                                 Sales   Profit   Sales   Profit   Sales   Profit   Sales   Profit 
                                GBP000   GBP000  GBP000   GBP000  GBP000   GBP000  GBP000   GBP000 
Philatelic trading 
 and retail operations          15,420    4,164  16,039    4,547  28,632    7,272  26,341    7,099 
Publishing and philatelic 
 accessories                     1,501      336   1,732      477   3,006      689   3,148      782 
Dealing in other collectibles    7,319    1,518   3,065      652   9,720    1,872   6,032    1,116 
Corporate overheads                  -  (1,454)       -  (1,431)       -  (2,947)       -  (2,615) 
Net finance income/(charges)         -       14       -     (27)       -       20       -     (38) 
Trading sales and profits       24,240    4,578  20,836    4,218  41,358    6,906  35,521    6,344 
------------------------------  ------  -------  ------  -------  ------  -------  ------  ------- 
 
Internet development               104    (779)      51    (168)     228  (1,338)      78    (302) 
------------------------------  ------  -------  ------  -------  ------  -------  ------  ------- 
Adjusted sales and 
 profit before tax              24,344    3,799  20,887    4,050  41,586    5,568  35,599    6,042 
 
Actuarial accounting 
 adjustments                         -    (205)       -    (185)       -    (410)       -    (368) 
Finance charges related 
 to pensions                         -     (27)       -     (26)       -     (54)       -     (53) 
Exceptional operating 
 costs                               -  (1,043)       -    (239)       -  (1,453)       -    (349) 
------------------------------  ------  -------  ------  -------  ------  -------  ------  ------- 
 
Group total sales and 
 profit before tax              24,344    2,524  20,887    3,600  41,586    3,651  35,599    5,272 
------------------------------  ------  -------  ------  -------  ------  -------  ------  ------- 
 

Overview

Group turnover for the six months to 31 December 2013 was GBP24.3m, which was 16% higher than the same period last year. Turnover for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 was GBP41.6m, also 16% higher. Turnover in the second half of the year included GBP1.7m in respect of the Noble acquisition. Consequently, like-for-like sales growth for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 was 12%.

The gross margin percentage for the six months to 31 December 2013 was 43.6% compared to 43.2% in the same period last year. The gross margin percentage for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 was 43.2% compared to 43.7% last year. The gross margin in the prior year benefitted from a write-back made against the provision for investment products sold in previous accounting periods with guaranteed minimum returns that remained outstanding of GBP0.3m. Excluding the impact of provision movements in both accounting periods, the gross margin was slightly improved compared to the prior year.

Overheads for the six months to 31 December 2013 were GBP1.9m (38%) higher. Overheads for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 were GBP3m (31%) higher. Overheads in the second half included GBP1.1m in respect of the Noble acquisition. Consequently, like-for-like overheads for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 were GBP1.9m (20%) higher. The most significant increases in overheads in the twelve months to 31 December 2013 included:

   --      Increased expenditure in online development project (GBP1.2m) 
   --      Costs incurred in development of new overseas offices (GBP0.2m) 
   --      Costs of enlarged senior management team to support future expansion plans (GBP0.3m) 

Underlying trading profits, excluding investment on internet development, actuarial accounting adjustments and exceptional charges, were GBP4.6m for the six months to 31 December 2013 (2012: GBP4.2m), up 9%. Underlying trading profits were GBP6.9m for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 (2012: GBP6.3m), up 9%. Trading profits in the second half of the year included GBP0.2m in respect of the Noble acquisition.

Profit before tax for the six months to 31 December 2013 was GBP2.5m (2012: GBP3.6m) and for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 was GBP3.7m (2012: GBP5.3m). The reduction in statutory profits reflects the increased investment in online developments together with the increase in exceptional charges incurred in the period.

Philatelic Trading and Retail Operations

Philatelic trading and retail sales for the six months to 31 December 2013 were down GBP0.6m (4%) with profit contribution down by GBP0.4m (8%). As a result of the strong first half performance, sales for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 were GBP2.3m (9%) higher with profit contribution up by GBP0.2m (2%).

Philatelic trading in the period benefited from the acquisitions of major renowned collections. As a result, a significant number of philatelic rarities included within these collections were sold in the period to our existing high net worth clients. Trading performance in philatelic dealing is largely influenced by high value sales made to key clients. The largest client in the twelve months to 31 December 2013 accounted for sales of GBP5.4m (2012: GBP4.8m).

Despite a relatively subdued home market, sales of stamps from Great Britain were 6% up on last year. Demand for stamps from members of the British Commonwealth (particularly India) is currently very strong resulting in an increase in sales of British Commonwealth stamps of 56% compared to last year.

Chinese rare stamps remain in high demand and sales are restricted by the lack of available supply of material of the right quality. Despite restrictions in supply, sales of Chinese stamps in the six months to 31 December 2013 were GBP1.1m (2012: GBP0.7m) making up for the shortfall in the first half of the year resulting in total sales of Chinese stamps in the twelve months to 31 December 2013 of GBP2.0m (2012: GBP2.1m). We are currently working on a number of opportunities through our office in Hong Kong to develop new supply channels to meet persistent levels of demand.

Auction revenues for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 were broadly in line with the prior year. Last year's auction revenues benefited from the sale of the prestigious "Arnhold Collection", which achieved a total realisation of GBP1.6m. We did not secure any major named collections during the twelve months to 31 December 2013 and postponed our December 2013 auction into 2014. It is therefore encouraging that revenues remained consistent with the prior year. Our recent acquisitions in the auction arena provide opportunities to grow auction revenues in the current year.

Publishing and Philatelic Accessories

Publishing and philatelic accessory sales for the six months to 31 December 2013 were down GBP0.2m (13%) with profit contribution down by GBP0.1m (30%). Despite a better first half performance, sales for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 were down GBP0.1m (5%) with profit contribution down by GBP0.1m (12%).

The most significant factor resulting in a poorer second half trading performance was due to the retirement and closure of our major wholesale distributor in the second half of the year and the loss of the substantial bulk orders which we would ordinarily have benefited from. As a result of this closure, it is expected that we will, over time, deal with many of the trade customers directly at a higher gross margin.

Dealing in Other Collectibles

Dealing in other collectibles can be further analysed as follows:

 
                               6 months to      6 months to     12 months to     12 months to 
                               31 December      31 December      31 December      31 December 
                                      2013             2012             2013             2012 
                             Sales  Profit    Sales  Profit    Sales  Profit    Sales  Profit 
                            GBP000  GBP000   GBP000  GBP000   GBP000  GBP000   GBP000  GBP000 
Dealing in autographs, 
 historical documents, 
 memorabilia, rare books 
 and records                 1,850     462    1,022      85    2,444     484    1,615     150 
Dealing in rare coins 
 and military medals         3,868     828      246      93    4,501     919    1,045     239 
Dealing in antiques, 
 watches, fine wine, 
 jewellery and other 
 collectibles                  440     (2)        -       -      440     (2)        -       - 
Benham first day covers 
 and other collectibles      1,161     230    1,797     474    2,335     471    3,372     727 
-------------------------  -------  ------  -------  ------  -------  ------  -------  ------ 
 
Total sales and profit 
 contribution                7,319   1,518    3,065     652    9,720   1,872    6,032   1,116 
-------------------------  -------  ------  -------  ------  -------  ------  -------  ------ 
 

Sales of other collectibles for the six months to 31 December 2013 were GBP4.3m (139%) higher with profit contribution up by GBP0.9m (133%). Sales for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 were GBP3.7m (61%) higher with profit contribution up by GBP0.8m (68%). Other collectibles sales in the second half of 2013 include GBP1.5m in respect of the Noble acquisition. Like-for-like sales growth for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 was 36%.

Autographs, historical documents, memorabilia, rare books and record sales for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 were up by GBP0.8m (51%) with profit contribution up by GBP0.3m (223%). The exceptional level of growth is the result of the sales and profit contribution from Bloomsbury auctions following the acquisition of Noble in November 2013, although underlying like-for-like sales were also improved, up 11%. We are completing the integration of our Fraser's autographs business with Bloomsbury auctions, with Fraser's autographs being relocated from 399 Strand, London to the Bloomsbury auctions premises at 24 Maddox Street, London. The integration will enable Fraser's autographs to share Bloomsbury Auctions' extensive resources and expertise. This will result in an extended range of items we can offer to our clients together with an ability to provide improved specialist information and auction services.

Sales of rare coins and military medals for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 were up by GBP3.5m (331%) with profit contribution up by GBP0.7m (285%). Sales included GBP0.4m from Baldwin's in respect of the Noble acquisition. The high level of growth achieved related primarily to the sale of rare coins from Baldwin's extensive stockholding, following acquisition in November, to Stanley Gibbons' high net worth clients, illustrating the immediate earnings enhancing nature of the acquisition. The market for rare coins is a key market for the Group going forward, particularly in developing our auction services and online marketplace. There are also short term expected benefits from the acquisition of Baldwin's in satisfying the increasing demand from investment clients seeking diversification into the rare coin market, which has shown growth levels of above 10% per annum on a compound basis over the past ten years.

Sales of antiques, watches, fine wine, jewellery and other collectibles relate entirely to auction commission from Dreweatts as part of the Noble acquisition in November 2013. Auction commissions from Dreweatts in the short period since acquisition to 31 December 2013 were GBP0.4m. There was no profit contribution in the short trading period since acquisition due to the absence of any major auctions held in the period.

Benham first day covers and other collectibles sales for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 were down GBP1m (31%) with profit contribution down GBP0.3m (35%). Sales in the prior year included GBP0.6m of London 2012 Olympics commemorative products to our trade distributor in China. Prior year sales and profit contribution also benefited from commemorative products in respect of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. Overall profit levels in 2013 reverted to historic normalised levels and still represented a 31% return on capital for the year based on the original acquisition price of GBP1.5m in 2010.

Corporate Overheads

Corporate overheads for the six months to 31 December 2013 were 2% higher than the same period last year and for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 were (GBP0.3m) 13% higher. The increased corporate overheads reflect the investment to develop the necessary support functions to manage the enlarged Group, including Finance, HR and Group marketing department. These support functions provide a vital element to delivering future growth in earnings of the enlarged Group.

Internet Development

Sales reported within this division relate solely to commissions generated from third party sales through our online marketplace www.bidstart.com and online subscription revenues. Online e-commerce sales through our trading websites www.stanleygibbons.com and www.frasersautographs.com are reported within the respective trading departments. Total revenues derived from online activities can be summarised as follows:

 
                                  6 months to   6 months to  12 months to  12 months to 
                                  31 December   31 December   31 December   31 December 
                                         2013          2012          2013          2012 
                                        Sales         Sales         Sales         Sales 
                                       GBP000        GBP000        GBP000        GBP000 
E-commerce - trading 
 of own products                          509           679         1,103         1,313 
Sales of rare collectibles 
 to investment clients                  1,663         1,736         2,151         2,111 
Online marketplace commissions 
 and subscription revenue                 104            51           228            78 
-------------------------------  ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------ 
 
Total online revenues                   2,276         2,466         3,482         3,502 
-------------------------------  ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------ 
 

E-commerce sales of our own products for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 were down GBP0.2m (16%). This reflects the short term impact of the significant restructuring of our e-commerce team during 2013 and the consequence of diversion of focus to development of the online marketplace.

Sales of rare collectibles to investment clients, sourced directly from the investment section of our website, were GBP2.2m (2012: GBP2.1m), up 2% in the twelve months to 31 December 2013. The new investment section of our website went live in October 2013 and our website represents one of our most important high net worth client recruitment tools. This is an area we intend to focus further on in increasing conversions from visitors to the investment section of our website.

Online commissions and subscription revenue predominantly relate to commissions received from third party sales through our US-based online collectibles marketplace, www.bidstart.com. Online commissions and subscription revenue was GBP0.2m for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 and, at this time, remains an immaterial element of total revenues. The integration of our websites to create a Stanley Gibbons branded online marketplace is scheduled for launch in the second half of this year. It is expected that commission revenues will represent a key growth area of the business.

Overheads of GBP1.6m (2012: GBP0.4m) were expensed in the twelve months to 31 December 2013 with the increase relating mainly to salary costs of software engineers making up our internet development team in Raleigh, US and e-commerce and online marketing team in Jersey, CI and London, UK.

Actuarial Accounting Adjustments & Finance charges related to pensions

Actuarial accounting adjustments & finance charges related to pensions relate to accounting charges in respect of our defined benefit pension scheme and IFRS share option charges totalling GBP0.5m (2012: GBP0.4m) for the twelve months to 31 December 2013. In the opinion of the Directors, such accounting charges do not form part of the operating performance of the Group.

Exceptional Operating Costs

Exceptional operating costs incurred in the six months to 31 December 2013 were GBP1.0m (2012: GBP0.2m) and for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 were GBP1.5m (2012: GBP0.3m). Exceptional operating costs can be further analysed as follows:

 
                                                                   12 months     12 months 
                                     6 months to   6 months to            to            to 
                                     31 December   31 December   31 December   31 December 
                                            2013          2012          2013          2012 
                                          GBP000        GBP000        GBP000        GBP000 
Legal costs in respect 
 of defined benefit pension 
 scheme                                      346             -           570             - 
Aborted IT system development 
 costs                                       139             -           139             - 
Aborted overseas offices 
 opening costs                               108             -           108             - 
Re-organisation and restructuring 
 costs                                         -            20           186           130 
Acquisition costs                            450           154           450           154 
Fair value adjustment 
 relating to Benham acquisition                -            65             -            65 
----------------------------------  ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------ 
 
Total exceptional operating 
 costs                                     1,043           239         1,453           349 
----------------------------------  ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------ 
 

The majority of exceptional operating costs incurred in the twelve months to 31 December 2013 related to legal and professional fees in respect of the acquisition of Noble (GBP0.5m) and legal costs incurred in respect of legal action for recovery against the professional advisers in respect of the Company's defined benefit pension scheme (GBP0.6m).

Cashflow

Cash used in operating activities for the six months to 31 December 2013 was GBP0.8m (2012: cash generated of GBP4.6m). Cash generated from operating activities for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 was GBP1.4m (2012: GBP1.0m). The increase in cash for the twelve months to 31 December 2013 of GBP10.5m (2012: GBP3.5m) is after dividends paid of GBP1.9m (2012: GBP1.6m) and capital expenditure of GBP1.5m (2012: GBP0.5m) and includes balances acquired on the acquisition of Noble of GBP6.3m and net surplus funds raised from the share placing of GBP4.6m.

Strategic Focus and Opportunities

The acquisition of Noble in November last year immediately transforms The Stanley Gibbons Group from being the predominant name in the stamp market to being a major force in both dealing and auctions in the wider collectibles market. The strategic importance of this acquisition is most relevant in respect of our online strategy to create a global online marketplace for collectibles as a result of the wider range of collectibles in which we now have authority and expertise. The primary objectives of our online marketplace will be to make selling online faster and easier through our bespoke collectibles sellers' tools at the same time as providing buyers better protection against authenticity risks and from mis-selling practices.

Whilst we believe the online marketplace represents our most important growth opportunity, we still believe in the importance of traditional auctions within the collectibles market. Public auctions are now also held simultaneously online and, in recent years, this has become the preferred route for sellers of high value collections to seek to realise the best price for their collection. We believe that with the enlarged Group's combined expertise, systems and client reach that we can deliver a superior auction service to ensure quality collections are treated with the respect they deserve and are described accurately to ensure the best realisation possible.

With our strong balance sheet and substantial cash reserves, we are able to offer sellers of major collections the ability to underwrite the value of their collection when selling through our auctions, by virtue of also being a major dealer in collectibles. This provides sellers with the confidence in the minimum realisation their collection will achieve, whilst we are motivated through auction commissions to deliver the highest possible realisation. In short, our interests are aligned and our goal in the coming year is to ensure this message is understood more clearly within the global collectibles market.

Our prestigious premises in central London are key to our service and further supported by our overseas offices in the Channel Islands, Hong Kong, Singapore and the US. We aim to broaden our international reach further as an integral element of delivering on our overall strategy.

Finally, we intend to continue to deliver a first class service to those individuals looking to invest in the collectibles market. Investment clients benefit primarily from our specialist expertise and buying power enabling us to acquire the highest quality collectibles, which we are able to sell to investors at fair value to provide them with the best chance of delivering future investment returns. This is further supported by the prevailing health of the collectibles market, which is driven by a global base of passionate collectors.

Michael Hall, Chief Executive

27 March 2014

Condensed statement of comprehensive income

 
                                               6 months     6 months    12 months    12 months 
                                                     to           to           to           to 
                                            31 December  31 December  31 December  31 December 
                                                   2013         2012         2013         2012 
                                            (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)    (audited) 
                                     Notes      GBP'000      GBP'000      GBP'000      GBP'000 
                                            -----------  -----------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Revenue                                  3       24,344       20,887       41,586       35,599 
Cost of sales                                  (13,740)     (11,870)     (23,615)     (20,031) 
-----------------------------------  -----  -----------  -----------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Gross Profit                                     10,604        9,017       17,971       15,568 
 
Administrative expenses before 
 defined benefit pension service 
 costs and exceptional operating 
 costs                                          (2,083)      (1,461)      (4,177)      (3,072) 
Defined benefit pension service 
 cost                                             (130)        (130)        (260)        (260) 
Exceptional operating costs                     (1,043)        (239)      (1,453)        (349) 
-----------------------------------  -----  -----------  -----------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Total administrative expenses                   (3,256)      (1,830)      (5,890)      (3,681) 
-----------------------------------  -----  -----------  -----------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Selling and distribution expenses               (4,812)      (3,534)      (8,396)      (6,524) 
-----------------------------------  -----  -----------  -----------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Operating Profit                                  2,536        3,653        3,685        5,363 
Finance income                                       12            2           20            3 
Finance costs                                      (24)         (55)         (54)         (94) 
-----------------------------------  -----  -----------  -----------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Profit before tax                                 2,524        3,600        3,651        5,272 
Taxation                                 4         (96)        (251)        (193)        (389) 
-----------------------------------  -----  -----------  -----------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Profit for the period                             2,428        3,349        3,458        4,883 
Other comprehensive income: 
Items that will not be classified 
 subsequently to profit or loss 
Actuarial losses recognised 
 in the pension scheme                                -        (237)            -        (237) 
Tax on actuarial losses recognised 
 in the pension scheme                                -           21            -           21 
Other comprehensive income for 
 the period, net of tax                               -        (216)            -        (216) 
-----------------------------------  -----  -----------  -----------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Total comprehensive income for 
 the period                                       2,428        3,133        3,458        4,667 
-----------------------------------  -----  -----------  -----------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Basic earnings per Ordinary 
 Share                                   5        7.70p       12.87p       11.29p       18.94p 
Diluted earnings per Ordinary 
 Share                                   5        7.55p       12.60p       11.07p       18.55p 
-----------------------------------  -----  -----------  -----------  -----------  ----------- 
 

All profit and total comprehensive income is attributable to the owners of the parent; there are no non-controlling interests.

Condensed statement of financial position

 
                                 31 December  31 December 
                                        2013         2012 
                                 (unaudited)    (audited) 
                                     GBP'000      GBP'000 
                                 -----------  ----------- 
Non-current assets 
Intangible assets                     34,028        1,723 
Property, plant and equipment          4,437        2,145 
Deferred tax asset                     1,089          735 
Available for sale financial 
 assets                                1,342            - 
Trade and other receivables              262          229 
 
                                      41,158        4,832 
-------------------------------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Current assets 
Inventories                           30,570       20,728 
Trade and other receivables           15,568       11,668 
Cash and cash equivalents             17,255        6,766 
-------------------------------  -----------  ----------- 
 
                                      63,393       39,162 
-------------------------------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Total assets                         104,551       43,994 
-------------------------------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Current liabilities 
Trade and other payables              13,245        8,179 
Borrowings                                 -          188 
Deferred consideration                 2,094            - 
Current tax payable                        -          169 
-------------------------------  -----------  ----------- 
 
                                      15,339        8,536 
-------------------------------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Non-current liabilities 
Retirement benefit obligations         3,399        3,161 
Borrowings                                 -            - 
Deferred tax liabilities                 565          233 
Provisions                               341          360 
-------------------------------  -----------  ----------- 
 
                                       4,305        3,754 
-------------------------------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Total liabilities                     19,644       12,290 
-------------------------------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Net assets                            84,907       31,704 
-------------------------------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Equity 
Called up share capital                  461          284 
Share premium account                 62,495       11,137 
Shares to be issued                      209          209 
Share compensation reserve               610          460 
Capital redemption reserve                38           38 
Revaluation reserve                      254          254 
Retained earnings                     20,840       19,322 
-------------------------------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Equity shareholders' funds            84,907       31,704 
-------------------------------  -----------  ----------- 
 

Condensed statement of changes in equity

 
                         Called 
                             up     Share    Shares to          Share                     Capital 
                          share   premium           be   compensation    Revaluation   redemption    Retained 
                        capital   account       issued        reserve        reserve      reserve    earnings    Total 
                        GBP'000   GBP'000      GBP'000        GBP'000         GBP000      GBP'000     GBP'000  GBP'000 
At 1 July 2013              287    11,541          209            535            254           38      19,274   32,138 
Profit and total 
 comprehensive 
 income for the 
 period                       -         -            -              -              -            -       2,428    2,428 
Dividends                     -         -            -              -              -            -       (862)    (862) 
Share options 
 exercised                    1        39            -              -              -            -           -       40 
Cost of share 
 options                      -         -            -             75              -            -           -       75 
Issue of ordinary 
 share capital 
 for acquisition             37    11,051            -              -              -            -           -   11,088 
Net proceeds from 
 issue of ordinary 
 share capital              136    39,864            -              -              -            -           -   40,000 
---------------------  --------  --------  -----------  -------------  -------------  -----------  ----------  ------- 
At 31 December 
 2013                       461    62,495          209            610            254           38      20,840   84,907 
---------------------  --------  --------  -----------  -------------  -------------  -----------  ----------  ------- 
 
 
At 1 July 2012              253     5,307            -            406            254           38      16,886   23,144 
Profit and total 
 comprehensive 
 income for the 
 period                       -         -            -              -              -            -       3,349    3,349 
Actuarial loss 
 on pension scheme 
 net of deferred 
 tax                          -         -            -              -              -            -       (216)    (216) 
 
Total comprehensive 
 income for the 
 year                         -         -            -              -              -            -       3,133    3,133 
Dividends                     -         -            -              -              -            -       (697)    (697) 
Share options 
 exercised                    -        56            -              -              -            -           -       56 
Cost of share 
 options                      -         -            -             54              -            -           -       54 
Deferred 
 consideration                -         -          209              -              -            -           -      209 
Net proceeds from 
 issue of ordinary 
 share capital               31     5,774            -              -              -            -           -    5,805 
 
At 31 December 
 2012                       284    11,137          209            460            254           38      19,322   31,704 
---------------------  --------  --------  -----------  -------------  -------------  -----------  ----------  ------- 
 
 
 
 
 
                           Called 
                               up     Share  Shares to          Share                   Capital 
                            share   premium         be   compensation  Revaluation   redemption    Retained 
                          capital   account     issued        reserve      reserve      reserve    earnings    Total 
                          GBP'000   GBP'000    GBP'000        GBP'000      GBP'000      GBP'000     GBP'000  GBP'000 
At 1 January 2013             284    11,137        209            460          254           38      19,322   31,704 
 Profit and total 
  comprehensive 
  income for the 
  period                        -         -          -              -            -            -       3,458    3,458 
Dividends                       -         -          -              -            -            -     (1,940)  (1,940) 
Share options 
 exercised                      4       443          -              -            -            -           -      447 
Cost of share 
 options                        -         -          -            150            -            -           -      150 
Issue of ordinary 
 share capital 
 for acquisition               37    11,051          -              -            -            -           -   11,088 
Net proceeds from 
 issue of ordinary 
 share capital                136    39,864          -              -            -            -           -   40,000 
-----------------------  --------  --------  ---------  -------------  -----------  -----------  ----------  ------- 
At 31 December 
 2013                         461    62,495        209            610          254           38      20,840   84,907 
-----------------------  --------  --------  ---------  -------------  -----------  -----------  ----------  ------- 
 
At 1 January 2012             253     5,285          -            352          254           38      16,236   22,418 
Profit for the 
 year                           -         -          -              -            -            -       4,883    4,883 
Actuarial loss 
 on pension scheme 
 net of deferred 
 tax                            -         -          -              -            -            -       (216)    (216) 
 
Total comprehensive 
 income for the 
 year                           -         -          -              -            -            -       4,667    4,667 
Dividends                       -         -          -              -            -            -     (1,581)  (1,581) 
Cost of share 
 options                        -         -          -            108            -            -           -      108 
Share options 
 exercised                      -        78          -              -            -            -           -       78 
Deferred consideration          -         -        209              -            -            -           -      209 
Net proceeds from 
 issue of ordinary 
 share capital                 31     5,774          -              -            -            -           -    5,805 
 
At 31 December 
 2012                         284    11,137        209            460          254           38      19,322   31,704 
-----------------------  --------  --------  ---------  -------------  -----------  -----------  ----------  ------- 
 

Condensed statement of cash flows

 
                                              6 months     6 months    12 months    12 months 
                                                    to           to           to           to 
                                           31 December  31 December  31 December  31 December 
                                                  2013         2012         2013         2012 
                                           (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)    (audited) 
                                    Notes      GBP'000      GBP'000      GBP'000      GBP'000 
                                           -----------  -----------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Cash (used in)/generated 
 from operations                        6        (764)        4,563        1,445        1,007 
Interest paid                                      (1)         (29)          (4)         (41) 
Taxes paid                                       (524)        (318)        (664)        (552) 
----------------------------------  -----  -----------  -----------  -----------  ----------- 
 
 
  Net cash (used in)/generated 
  from operating activities                    (1,289)        4,216          777          414 
----------------------------------  -----  -----------  -----------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Investing activities 
Purchase of property, plant 
 and equipment                                   (193)        (192)        (446)        (368) 
Purchase of intangible assets                  (1,042)         (64)      (1,091)        (138) 
Acquisition of business assets 
 (net of cash acquired)                       (27,091)        (382)     (27,091)        (382) 
Interest received                                   16            2           24            3 
----------------------------------  -----  -----------  -----------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Net cash (used in)/generated 
 from investing activities                    (28,310)        (636)     (28,604)        (885) 
----------------------------------  -----  -----------  -----------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Financing activities 
Dividends paid to company 
 shareholders                           7        (862)        (697)      (1,940)      (1,581) 
Repayment of borrowings                           (63)        (125)        (188)        (250) 
Net proceeds from issue of 
 ordinary share capital                         40,037        5,816       40,444        5,838 
 
Net cash generated from financing 
 activities                                     39,112        4,994       38,316        4,007 
----------------------------------  -----  -----------  -----------  -----------  ----------- 
 
 
  Net increase in cash and 
  cash equivalents                               9,513        8,574       10,489        3,536 
----------------------------------  -----  -----------  -----------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Cash and cash equivalents 
 at start of period                              7,742      (1,808)        6,766        3,230 
----------------------------------  -----  -----------  -----------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Cash and cash equivalents 
 at end of period                               17,255        6,766       17,255        6,766 
----------------------------------  -----  -----------  -----------  -----------  ----------- 
 
 

Notes to the condensed financial statements

   1        Basis of preparation 

The interim financial information in this report has been prepared using accounting policies consistent with IFRS as adopted by the European Union. IFRS is subject to amendment and interpretation by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and the IFRS Interpretations Committee and there is an ongoing process of review and endorsement by the European Commission. The financial information has been prepared on the basis of IFRS that the Directors expect to be adopted by the European Union and applicable for the 15 month period to 31 March 2014.

   2        Significant accounting policies 

Except as described below, the accounting policies applied by the Group in this interim report are the same as those applied by the Group in the consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2012.

Income tax

Taxes on income in the interim periods are accrued using the tax rate that would be applicable to expected total annual earnings.

   3        Segmental analysis 

As outlined in the Operating Review the company has four main business segments, operations being split between Philatelic trading, Publishing and philatelic accessories, Other collectibles and Internet development. This is based upon the Group's internal organisation and management structure and is the primary way in which the Board of Directors is provided with financial information.

 
                                    Publishing 
                                           and 
 Segmental income    Philatelic     philatelic           Other       Internet 
  statement             trading    accessories    collectibles    development   Unallocated      Group 
                        GBP'000        GBP'000         GBP'000        GBP'000       GBP'000    GBP'000 
 
 6 months to 
  31 December 
  2013 
 Revenue                 15,420          1,501           7,319            104             -     24,344 
 Operating costs       (11,256)        (1,165)         (5,801)          (884)       (1,659)   (20,765) 
 Exceptional 
  costs                       -              -               -              -       (1,043)    (1,043) 
 Net finance 
  costs                       -              -               -              -          (12)       (12) 
------------------  -----------  -------------  --------------  -------------  ------------  --------- 
 Profit/(loss) 
  before tax              4,164            336           1,518          (780)       (2,714)      2,524 
 Tax                          -              -               -              -          (96)       (96) 
------------------  -----------  -------------  --------------  -------------  ------------  --------- 
 
 Profit/(loss) 
  for the period          4,164            336           1,518          (780)       (2,810)      2,428 
------------------  -----------  -------------  --------------  -------------  ------------  --------- 
 
 6 months to 
  31 December 
  2012 
 Revenue                 16,039          1,732           3,065             51             -     20,887 
 Operating costs       (11,492)        (1,255)         (2,413)          (219)       (1,616)   (16,995) 
 Exceptional 
  costs                       -              -               -              -         (239)      (239) 
 Net finance 
  costs                       -              -               -              -          (53)       (53) 
------------------  -----------  -------------  --------------  -------------  ------------  --------- 
 Profit/(loss) 
  before tax              4,547            477             652          (168)       (1,908)      3,600 
 Tax                          -              -               -              -         (251)      (251) 
------------------  -----------  -------------  --------------  -------------  ------------  --------- 
 
 Profit/(loss) 
  for the period          4,547            477             652          (168)       (2,159)      3,349 
------------------  -----------  -------------  --------------  -------------  ------------  --------- 
 
 
 
                                    Publishing 
                                           and 
 Segmental income    Philatelic     philatelic           Other       Internet 
  statement             trading    accessories    collectibles    development   Unallocated      Group 
                        GBP'000        GBP'000         GBP'000        GBP'000       GBP'000    GBP'000 
 
   12 months to 
   31 December 
   2013 
 Revenue                 28,632          3,006           9,720            228             -     41,586 
 Operating costs       (21,360)        (2,317)         (7,848)        (1,566)       (3,357)   (36,448) 
 Exceptional 
  costs                       -              -               -              -       (1,453)    (1,453) 
 Net finance 
  costs                       -              -               -              -          (34)       (34) 
------------------  -----------  -------------  --------------  -------------  ------------  --------- 
 Profit/(loss) 
  before tax              7,272            689           1,872        (1,338)       (4,844)      3,651 
 Tax                          -              -               -              -         (193)      (193) 
------------------  -----------  -------------  --------------  -------------  ------------  --------- 
 
 Profit/(loss) 
  for the period          7,272            689           1,872        (1,338)       (5,037)      3,458 
------------------  -----------  -------------  --------------  -------------  ------------  --------- 
 
   12 months to 
   31 December 
   2012 
 Revenue                 26,341          3,148           6,032             78             -     35,599 
 Operating costs       (19,242)        (2,366)         (4,916)          (380)       (2,983)   (29,887) 
 Exceptional 
  costs                       -              -               -              -         (349)      (349) 
 Net finance 
  cost                        -              -               -              -          (91)       (91) 
------------------  -----------  -------------  --------------  -------------  ------------  --------- 
 Profit/(loss) 
  before tax              7,099            782           1,116          (302)       (3,423)      5,272 
 Tax                          -              -               -              -         (389)      (389) 
------------------  -----------  -------------  --------------  -------------  ------------  --------- 
 
 Profit/(loss) 
  for the year            7,099            782           1,116          (302)       (3,812)      4,883 
------------------  -----------  -------------  --------------  -------------  ------------  --------- 
 

Geographical information

Analysis of revenue by destination and origin

 
                      6 months to               6 months to               12 months to              12 months to 
                    31 December 2013          31 December 2012          31 December 2013          31 December 2012 
                           By  By origin             By  By origin             By  By origin             By  By origin 
                  destination               destination               destination               destination 
                      GBP'000    GBP'000        GBP'000    GBP'000        GBP'000    GBP'000        GBP'000    GBP'000 
Channel 
 Islands                4,149     15,370          1,416     12,468          7,774     25,148          2,213     18,655 
United Kingdom         12,726      7,497          9,950      6,563         19,393     13,888         17,734     13,795 
Hong Kong               1,201      1,477          1,746      1,856          2,140      2,550          1,986      3,149 
Europe                  1,092          -          1,229          -          1,998          -          2,028          - 
Singapore               2,482          -            965          -          5,770          -          2,058          - 
Rest of Asia              367          -          4,318          -            581          -          4,913          - 
North America             951          -            391          -          1,739          -          1,159          - 
Rest of the 
 World                  1,376          -            872          -          2,191          -          3,508          - 
--------------  -------------  ---------  -------------  ---------  -------------  ---------  -------------  --------- 
                       24,344     24,344         20,887     20,887         41,586     41,586         35,599     35,599 
--------------  -------------  ---------  -------------  ---------  -------------  ---------  -------------  --------- 
 

Destination is defined as the location of the customer. Origin is defined as the country of domicile of the Group company making the sale. All of the sales relate to external customers.

Channel Islands sales in the six months ended 31 December 2013 include GBP2,495,000 to one individual customer and Singapore sales include GBP2,318,000 to one individual customer. Rest of the World sales in the six months ended 31 December 2012 include GBP2,798,000 to one individual customer.

   4        Taxation 

The charge for taxation is based on the results for the period and takes into account taxation deferred because of timing differences between the treatment of certain items for taxation and accounting purposes. Deferred tax is recognised on a full provision basis in respect of all temporary differences which have originated, but not reversed at the balance sheet date.

   5        Earnings per ordinary share 

The calculation of basic earnings per ordinary share is based on the weighted average number of shares in issue during the period. For diluted earnings per share, the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue is adjusted to assume conversion of all dilutive potential ordinary shares. The Group has only one category of dilutive ordinary shares: those share options granted to employees where the exercise price is less than the average market price of the Company's ordinary shares during the period.

 
                                                    12 months    12 months 
                                                        ended        ended 
                                                  31 December  31 December 
                                                         2013         2012 
                                                  (unaudited)    (audited) 
Weighted average number of ordinary shares in 
 issue (No.)                                       30,633,409   25,788,461 
Dilutive potential ordinary shares: Employee 
 share options (No.)                                  596,380      539,804 
------------------------------------------------  -----------  ----------- 
Profit after tax (GBP)                              3,458,000    4,883,600 
Pension service costs & finance charge (net of 
 tax)                                                 240,995      236,300 
Cost of share options (net of tax)                    150,000      108,000 
Exceptional operating costs (net of tax)            1,286,763      300,200 
 
Adjusted profit after tax (GBP)                     5,135,758    5,528,100 
------------------------------------------------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Basic earnings per share - pence per share (p)         11.29p       18.94p 
Diluted earnings per share - pence per share 
 (p)                                                   11.07p       18.55p 
Adjusted earnings per share - pence per share 
 (p)                                                   16.77p       21.44p 
Adjusted diluted earnings per share - pence per 
 share (p)                                             16.45p       21.00p 
------------------------------------------------  -----------  ----------- 
 

404,529 shares were issued on 21 January 2014 following the exercise of Directors and employees share options. A further 63,470 shares were issued by way of part consideration for the acquisition of Murray Payne Limited on 6 February 2014.

   6        Cash generated from operations 
 
                                         6 months     6 months    12 months    12 months 
                                               to           to           to           to 
                                      31 December  31 December  31 December  31 December 
                                             2013         2012         2013         2012 
                                      (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)    (audited) 
                                          GBP'000      GBP'000      GBP'000      GBP'000 
Operating profit                            2,536        3,653        3,685        5,363 
Depreciation                                  182          121          324          255 
Amortisation                                  151           94          301          184 
Increase / (decrease) in provisions           122         (42)          219        (216) 
Cost of share options                          75           54          150          108 
Decrease/(increase) in inventories          1,164        3,735          403      (3,927) 
(Increase)/decrease in trade and 
 other receivables                        (1,659)      (2,737)        1,971      (2,299) 
(Decrease)/increase in trade and 
 other payables                           (3.335)        (315)      (5,608)        1,539 
------------------------------------  -----------  -----------  -----------  ----------- 
 
Cash (used in)/generated from 
 operations                                 (764)        4,563        1,445        1,007 
------------------------------------  -----------  -----------  -----------  ----------- 
 

Notes to the condensed financial statements

   7        Dividends 
 
                                          6 months      6 months     12 months     12 months 
                                                to            to            to            to 
                                       31 December   31 December   31 December   31 December 
                                              2013          2012          2013          2012 
                                       (unaudited)   (unaudited)   (unaudited)     (audited) 
                                           GBP'000       GBP'000       GBP'000       GBP'000 
 
 Amounts recognised as distribution 
  to equity holders in period: 
 Dividend paid                                 862           697         1,940         1,581 
------------------------------------  ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------ 
 
 Dividend paid per share                     3.00p         2.75p         6.75p         6.25p 
------------------------------------  ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------ 
 
 Dividend proposed but not paid              1,845         1,066         1,845         1,066 
------------------------------------  ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------ 
 
 Dividend proposed per share                 4.00p         3.75p         4.00p         3.75p 
------------------------------------  ------------  ------------  ------------  ------------ 
 
 
   8        Acquisition of Noble Investments (UK) Plc 

The acquisition of Noble Investments (UK) plc was only completed just over one month before the balance sheet date of 31(st) December 2013. The initial accounting for the business combination is therefore incomplete and the amounts recognised in the financial statements are provisional. The fair values of the acquired intangible assets are provisional pending the final valuations of these assets.

   9        Further copies of this statement 

Copies of this statement are being sent to shareholders and can be viewed on the Company's website at www.stanleygibbons.com. Further copies are available on request from: The Company Secretary, The Stanley Gibbons Group plc, 2(nd) Floor, Minden House, Minden Place, Jersey JE2 4WQ.

This information is provided by RNS

The company news service from the London Stock Exchange

END

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