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Recover
Rebuild
Resilience
Annual Report for the year
ended 31 March 2024
Trifast plc | Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Our purpose
& vision
is to sustainably drive
our customers’ success by
simplifying their fastener supply
chain and supporting them in their
technical requirements through
our world‑class engineering
and manufacturing
capabilities
Trifast is a leading
international specialist
in the design, engineering,
manufacture and distribution of
high‑quality industrial fastenings
and Category ‘C’ components,
principally to major global
assembly industries
Strategic report 1
Highlights 1
Global presence 2
Meet the new team 3
Chair’s welcome 4
CEO review 6
Our new strategic direction 10
Delivering growth
through our business model 18
Key performance indicators 20
Section 172(1) statement 22
Stakeholder engagement 24
National Distribution Centre 27
Financial review 28
Non‑financial and sustainability
information statement 36
Being a responsible business 37
Our people 39
Our planet 47
Our principles 53
Climate‑related Financial Disclosures 55
Risk management 66
Our principal risks 67
Viability statement 76
Governance 78
Chair’s introduction togovernance 78
The Board 82
The Executive Leadership Team 84
Corporate governance report 85
Nomination Committee report 88
Responsible Business Committee report 94
Audit & Risk Committee report 96
Directors’ remuneration report 104
Directors’ remuneration policy 131
Directors’ report 147
Statement of Directors’ responsibilities 150
Financial statements 151
Independent auditor’s report 151
Consolidated income statement 159
Consolidated statement
ofcomprehensiveincome 160
Consolidated statement
of changes in equity 161
Company statement of
changes in equity 163
Statements of financial position 165
Statement of cash flows 166
Notes to the financial statements 168
Additional information 228
www.trifast.com
Catch up with our latest news
andlearn more about Trifast on
ourcorporate website
Strategic report
For more information read pages 1 to 77
Governance
For more information read pages 78 to 150
Financial statements
For more information read pages 151 to 227
Being a responsible business
For more information read pages 37 to 54
About us
Contents
Gender diversity (all employees)
33%
30%
31%
67%
70%
69%
2024
2023
2022
67%
33%
Financial highlights read more on page 20 Non-financial highlights read more on page 21
Men Women
(4.4)%
£233.7m
£244.4m
£218.6m
Read more on [•]
2024
2023
2022
Revenue
5.1%
5.1%
4.9%
6.7%
2024
2023
2022
Underlying EBIT percentage
5.7%
5.7%
5.4%
8.3%
2024
2023
2022
Underlying ROCE
40.8%
40.8%
45.9%
46.5%
2024
2023
2022
Working capital as a percentage of revenue
Lost time incident rate
0.27
0.01
0.99
2024
2023
2022
0.27
CO
2
e reduction (FY19 baseline)
(31.8)%
(30.3)%
(27.6)%
2024
2023
2022
(31.8)%
Target (21.0)%
Target (16.8)%
Target (12.6)%
Supply chain (percentage of spend
1
)
82.3%
76.7%
62.2%
Read more on [•]
2024
2023
2022
82.3%
Highlights
1. Percentage of spend signed up to Slavery & Human Trafficking Statement
1
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
We have c.1,200 employees in 16 countries
Early involvement in design is key to ensure that we
support customers at the inception of new products
North America
56 colleagues
11.8% of sales
Europe
272 colleagues
35.7% of sales
UK & Ireland
437 colleagues
31.4% of sales
Asia
432 colleagues
21.1% of sales
Manufacturing
In‑house manufacturing gives us increased capability,
product knowledge and a unique advantage over competitors
Supply chain simplification
Our vendor development process provides approved vendor
supply chain excellence and simplicity for customers
Engineering
Key:
Head office Trifast plc
TR Asia headquarters
 Manufacturing, sales & distribution
Sales & distribution
 Sales office
 Engineering & innovation centre
 Joint Venture (manufacturing)
2
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Global presence
Q
As the new Chair, what has been your main
focus since taking up the role?
It has been very busy since joining in August 2023.
Following a comprehensive handover from the previous
Chair, Jonathan Shearman, I have had the privilege
of meeting many of the TR team across Asia, North
America, UK & Ireland and Europe. These visits have
been immensely important and are ongoing. As well as
learning more about the fastener industry, it has been
great to meet our employees and learn more about their
motivations. I have also supported our new CEO with
the strategy review as well as recruiting a Remuneration
Committee Chair, who joined us in March 2024.
Q
What are the major highlights for you since
joiningTrifast?
Three highlights come to mind immediately: visiting our
global facilities and meeting the wonderful TR employees;
celebrating the opening of our UK National Distribution
Centre was a highlight for the Board; and finally, engaging
with our shareholders to better understand their support
and motivations for investing in Trifast.
Q
What are the Board’s focus areas for FY25?
The Board are laser‑focused on the successful transition
of the business, in delivering the new strategy and
improving shareholder returns. We will work closely with
the Executive Leadership Team, with a focus on rebuilding
the culture and capabilities that the business requires
and successfully making ourselves a great place to work
again. Our customers are at the heart of everything we
do, and we will continue to add value to their businesses
by providing world‑class engineering and supply chain
excellence to solve their problems.
Q
As the new CEO, what has been your main
focus since joining?
Since joining in September 2023, I have focused my
energies on TR’s Recover, Rebuild, Resilience plan. I am
building a strong leadership team, a safety culture and
ensuring operational excellence. I have also had a chance
to review our strategic direction and have worked with
the Board and Senior Management to ensure we shape
TR for the next chapter of its success.
Q
What are your key deliverables for FY25?
I have five principal areas of focus for FY25:
1) Importantly, I want to enhance the safety culture
across all our global operations, through training,
learning, reporting and employee engagement. It
is important that all TR employees have a safe and
supportive place to work
2) Improve employee engagement and feedback through
town hall meetings, effective communication and
employee surveys
3) Focus on ESG and demonstrate to our stakeholders
that TR is committed to delivering a net zero
environment
4) Continue to build strong relations with our
shareholders and investors
5) Deliver a year of financial growth and progress as we
start our Recover, Rebuild, Resilience journey
Q
What drives you personally?
Well, I am a Manchester United fan so resilience has been
required for the past few years and my club is on a similar
journey back to greatness as we are at Trifast, and I am
confident both will deliver.
Q
How would you describe your initial period as
a Trifast Non-Executive Director?
It has been incredibly busy – I had an excellent handover
from Claire Balmforth, for which I am hugely grateful, and
her wisdom and guidance have supported my education
about Trifast and the fastener industry. The induction
programme for NEDs is very comprehensive and I have
met with many employees in Uckfield, the National
Distribution Centre and TR Italy. Everyone has been very
welcoming and willing to share their knowledge and
experience – the passion I have heard for the Company
has been inspiring.
Q
As the designated Non-Executive Director for
employee engagement, what are your plans?
Importantly, I plan to visit and meet with employee
groups as soon as I can and I am bringing my experience,
both as an executive and as a non‑executive, on what
great employee engagement looks like into play as we
build our engagement mechanisms. There is nothing
more valuable to a Board than the opportunity to hear
directly from those involved in delivering our customer
experience and enabling the employee voice is vital.
Q
What excites you about Trifast?
Firstly, I would say the 51‑year history and the passion
and enthusiasm from the TR employees I have met and
their determination to provide the very best service to
all our customers. It is testament to the Company that
the average length of employee service is over ten years
and that wealth of knowledge and deep‑seated customer
relationships is a huge business strength.
Serena
Lang
Iain
Percival
Laura
Whyte
3
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Meet the new team
The Board’s focus has been to approve a new
strategic transformation plan aimed at creating
a more resilient, commercial and sustainable
business under the leadership our new CEO,
IainPercival, which allows the Company to
Recover, Rebuild and build Resilience
Serena Lang
Chair
Board changes
One of my first roles as Chair was to
work with the Board and conclude the
appointment of the new CEO. After a
thorough and rigorous process, the Board
were delighted to appoint Iain Percival to
the role in September 2023. Iain brings
with him deep leadership and business
transformation experience and it is clear
that he is already making a significant
impact at Trifast. On behalf of the Board,
I also want to thank Scott Mac Meekin for
stepping in as the interim CEO for seven
months, allowing the Board the time to
undertake a comprehensive search process.
We said goodbye to Claire Balmforth
in March 2024, one of our Independent
Non‑Executive Directors and Chair of
the Remuneration Committee who has
retired from her portfolio career. We are
very thankful for Claire’s contribution and
professionalism throughout her tenure
and are delighted to have appointed Laura
Whyte as her replacement. Laura, having
worked in several organisations within the
listed, private and charity sectors, is an
experienced operational and Non‑Executive
Director with a strong focus on brand,
customer and workforce engagement,
bringing strength and diversity to the Board
skills, particularly in relation to people and
engagement.
Darren Hayes‑Powell left the business by
mutual consent in February 2024 and Kate
Ferguson, our Group Financial Controller,
assumed the role of interim CFO on his
departure whilst the Nomination Committee
commenced an Executive search process
for the permanent role which you can read
more about on page 92.
Having taken over as Chair in September
2023, halfway through our financial year,
Iwould firstly like to take the opportunity
tothank my predecessor, Jonathan
Shearman, who served on the Board of
Trifast for 14years, and as Chair for the final
four years. A role he did with care, passion
and diligence during some very challenging
times. Jonathan also commenced the search
process for the new CEO, making my first
role as Chair of the Nomination Committee
much easier, whilst Clive Watson, our
Senior Independent Director, diligently ran
the Chair recruitment process. Thanks to
themboth.
As part of my induction plan, I have visited
our operations in Asia, North America
and Europe and met with our teams and
customers. I have been struck by the
passion the Company has for serving
customers and the desire each site has to
continually improve. It is clear that we have
excellent engineering capabilities, a desire
to win, and customers and employees that
have been with Trifast for a very long time.
There were also clear opportunities to build
capabilities and competencies, establish a
unified ‘One TR’ culture and ensure better
engagement throughout the business.
I am grateful to those shareholders who
have given me their time, evaluations and
insights into Trifast with open and honest
conversations.
4
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Chair’s welcome
Looking back at FY24
Iain made it clear that his number one
focus was the safety and wellbeing of all
employees. Ensuring that all our people
are safe and able to go home to their
families is of paramount importance to
the Board and this focus, along with the
appointment of David O’Brien, Global EHS
Director, and the clear expectations set out
by Iain, can already be seen throughout
the organisation. Safety is a journey and
requires a shift in culture. The Board will be
monitoring the work being done here and
ensuring our employees remain safe and
supported going forward.
Last year marked our 50th anniversary
for Trifast and another inflection point in
the Company’s history. Good companies
continue to change and transform to meet
the needs of their stakeholders and Trifast
is no different. The Company, driven by
a ‘customer first’ attitude, ramped up
inventory levels during the pandemic to
protect our customers’ manufacturing
lines and the subsequent impact of cost
inflation, the Ukraine conflict and customer
destocking led to high inventories and high
netdebt.
Following Scott Mac Meekin’s appointment
as interim CEO in February 2023, together
with the Board, he launched a recovery
roadmap for the business based on several
key self‑help operational and commercial
improvement programmes. Working closely
with Chief Commercial Officer, Dan Jack,
they created a process of Sprints that would
enable the business to start turning the
trend on inventories, better understand
customer profitability and focus business
development on the top 200 customers.
I am delighted to say that our inventory
levels have been managed downwards
significantly over the year.
The current geopolitical uncertainty, leading
to supply chain disruption, together with the
macroeconomic environment, continued to
challenge the business and we saw further
unexpected destocking and continued
inflation‑led price increases and interest
rates, resulting in significant downward
pressure on our revenues and profitability
measures, and our transformation plan will
look to address greater resilience in these
areas.
The UK team worked tirelessly to establish
our new National Distribution Centre
in the Midlands. This facility will lead to
better efficiencies, improved supply chain
management and clarity of inventory levels
across the UK business. There is still work
to do to deliver world‑class processes
and more efficient ways of working and
a multi‑disciplinary team has been pulled
together to make that happen. I am very
pleased to confirm that we will be holding
our AGM at the National Distribution Centre
in September.
Our people
It has been an absolute delight to visit the
Trifast operations and meet our wonderful
people. I have yet to meet everyone;
however, what is obvious from those I have
met, is that our employees are dedicated
to delivering excellence to our customers
and are passionate about the business,
which comes through clearly in the regular
customer satisfaction surveys we run.
During my visits, it became clear that
we needed greater communication and
employee engagement, to actively listen
more and to put in place formal structures
that allow the Board to have better access
to the voice of our employees. This will
be critical to the success of strategic
transformation and together with a
bottom‑up culture approach, will be a
priority for the Board going forward.
Throughout FY24, our employees have
faced substantial change both from
external factors as well as internal initiatives
designed to improve the sustainability of
the business. It was therefore a difficult year
for many, as colleagues moved on from the
business and workplaces changed.
On behalf of the Board, I would like to
recognise the amount of change and
personal impact that this period of the
Company has had on our employees and
thank them for their continued hard work
and loyalty. Together, we will make Trifast
agreat place to work again.
Dividend
The Board is proposing a final dividend of
1.20p. Our focus on growth through the
transformation process allows us to remain
committed to a progressive dividend policy
that shares the benefit of ongoing growth
with our shareholders. I am also very
pleased to announce that the Company
is introducing a Dividend Re‑Investment
Plan for the first time and shareholders will
receive more details on that when the notice
of the Annual General Meeting is issued in
July 2024.
Looking forward
It is essential that Trifast becomes
more resilient and the new strategy and
transformation plan that Iain and the
Executive Leadership Team have developed
under the Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
framework is aimed at achieving that,
and the Board is pleased that progress
on ‘Recover’ has already begun during
FY24. The business will be focusing on the
commercial outcomes, whilst building a
strong new culture where our people thrive,
so we can continue to delight our customers
and drive shareholder value. Finally, I look
forward to speaking with our shareholders
at our AGM on 10 September 2024.
Serena Lang
Chair
5
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Chair’s welcome continued
I feel privileged and excited to be leading our
business as we write the next chapter of our
growth and success story
Iain Percival
Chief Executive Officer
I would like to thank all of our Trifast
employees. Without their significant efforts
and contribution, our FY24 achievements
would not have been possible. I look
forward to celebrating further success this
year as we collectively execute on the first
phase of our journey.
I would also like to thank our Board for the
consistent support and encouragement
provided to myself and my Executive
Leadership Team.
Introduction
Thank you for taking the time to read
through our Annual Report, which reflects
a year of transformation for Trifast; a
year where we have faced challenges but
can also reflect and celebrate success.
We delivered a resilient trading and
operational performance in a challenging
macroeconomic and geopolitical
environment impacting our customers’
demands. I am proud of our achievements,
delivered through our dedicated people.
FY24 achievements
• Improved net debt, largely due to a focus
on controlling inventories and reducing
stock weeks
• Continued strong pipeline wins,
demonstrating that Trifast continues to
have growth opportunities
• Completion of our UK National
Distribution Centre (NDC) project, a
complex supply chain and footprint
simplification initiative to consolidate our
UK distribution operations into a single
purpose‑built unit located in the heart of
our industrial customer base (see page
27 for details)
• Launched our manufacturing Joint
Venture in Guangdong province, China,
with our partners Chia Yi Precision
Fasteners to better serve our Chinese
growth customers
6
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
CEO review
Our journey – Recover, Rebuild,
Resilience
In 2023, TR celebrated 50 years of business
with a proud heritage of serving customers
with engineered fastening supply chain
solutions. I feel privileged and excited to be
leading our business as we write the next
chapter of our growth and success story.
Trifast has gained many strengths over that
50‑year history which represent a solid
platform on which to build:
• We are passionate about the customers
that we serve, whether that is a single
engineered component or fulfilling a
customer’s fastening requirements with
both product and supply chain solutions
• We have a loyal, skilled and
experiencedteam
• We are positioned to serve our customers
using our engineering, manufacturing
and distribution capabilities globally
‘One TR’
Whilst celebrating our core strengths and
achievements, we must also recognise that
the last few years have been challenging
for many of our customers and also for our
business. I have set out in the following
pages the transformation plan that will
underpin a return to sustained profitable
growth within a safe, engaged and
consistent people culture called OneTR.
Our transformation journey will take us
through three phases:
Recover
Our initial focus is returning to positive
margin growth. Despite the continued
challenging macroeconomic and
geopolitical environment in which we are
operating, our clear ambition in FY25 is to
deliver measurable progress in profitability,
cash generation and return on capital
employed. This will be achieved through
focused margin management actions,
supporting our positive profitable growth
with new pipeline wins, combined with
continued strict cost control and working
capital management. This is all supported
by our increasingly robust approach to risk
management, more of which can be read
about on page 66.
Rebuild
Our medium‑term ambition of the Company
strategy is to deliver a business which is
performing with EBIT margins >10% and
ROCE of >12% through the execution of
our new focused business strategy and
transformation plan.
Resilience
We will implement best practice in our
people and business processes that become
our means of generating profitable growth
momentum and delivering longer‑term EBIT
margins in the range of 12‑15% and ROCE
in the range of 15‑20%, and a business
that is able to sustain that level of high
performance through future economic
cycles and continued supply chain
challenges.
Business strategy
We have spent time during this year
challenging our business strategy, reflecting
on what we truly believe to be our winning
ambition, where we play, how we win and
what capabilities are required to execute
successfully.
Trifast has operated successfully for many
of its 50‑year history as a company built
through a series of acquisitions globally.
In the past few years, challenges around
supply chain and demand volatility, as well
as increased customer and stakeholder
expectations and demands, has stretched
our ability to support what is a diverse
portfolio of operations and markets.
Our new business strategy is therefore
built on ensuring we recognise, build and
focus our core strengths of customer focus,
excellent quality and service, fastening
supply solutions and manufacturing and
engineering capability in selected markets
and geographies where we can align this
value proposition with our core customer
needs and expectations.
Building capabilities
We have started to reshape the organisation
to align with our business strategy, creating
an organisational structure of four regional
leadership teams, each headed by a
Managing Director that sits on the Executive
Leadership Team (ELT). These regional
teams are fully accountable for their profit
and loss and cash flow performance and are
supported by six central enabling functions.
Both our ELT and our Senior Leadership
Team, those senior leaders who report
directly to ELT members, are aligned and
incentivised per our variable pay policy
through a management bonus scheme
linked directly to delivery of our strategy
and budgeted financial performance.
Recognising that we are managing
transformative change, there has been
investment into experienced transformation
skills that will ensure we programme
and project manage strategy execution
effectively.
To support our value proposition, we will
also invest in key account management and
application engineering which we see as
a critical component of our differentiation
and competitive advantage in the market,
helping our targeted customers solve their
fastening supply chain solution needs.
Finally, having now completed Project
Atlas, to replace the outdated Tribune ERP
system with Microsoft D365, and given the
increased needs of our customers in helping
deliver agile and data‑driven solutions, we
will be augmenting our existing technology
systems with targeted transformation
projects.
7
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
CEO review continued
Our culture and values
Our culture and values have been refreshed
with the launch of One TR where we work
globally across our regions and functions to
deliver a singular vision. You can read more
about our One TR values on page 11.
Safety
Our approach to safety has historically
been compliance driven, which does not
reflect our values or ambition to deliver
a safe, engaging and inclusive One TR
culture. Withour new values, we have
started to change this approach and have
a clear three‑year roadmap to deliver a far
moreproactive, engaged and ultimately
safer working environment. Read more
onpages 44 and 45.
People
Our people are at the centre of our business.
It is their passion, talent and drive for
quality and service excellence that stands
out for our customers time and again and
sets Trifast apart from the competition.
Thiswas echoed in the customer feedback
we received during our strategy review.
Iamtruly grateful for all the support and
hard work of our people, in what has been
ayear of challenge and change.
Last year we celebrated our 50th
anniversary of being a UK industrial
business, a heritage of which I and all at
Trifast are extremely proud. It was therefore
with much sadness that we lost one of our
founders, Mike Roberts, in December 2023
who, together with Mike Timms, founded
and built the successful foundations of TR.
I would like to recognise Mike Robert’s
achievements. We all feel the responsibility
to continue to build upon our history and
success as we look forward to our next
50years.
We also said farewell to two long‑standing
members of the Trifast team. Glenda
Roberts worked for 34 years, operating
as a leader and role model for women in
business, for which we are truly grateful.
Stevie Meiklem, likewise served Trifast for
32 years, with his final role being creating
and delivering our UK National Distribution
Centre. Both have been instrumental in
building our business and we wish them
health and happiness in their well‑deserved
retirement.
Our new organisational structure has
fundamentally changed the business from
operating as individual profit centres to a
standardised regional business supported
by central enabling functions. This more
streamlined approach has allowed us to
both reduce the overhead cost, whilst
facilitating clearer accountabilities and
responsibilities, and enable best practice
leverage. There are already benefits being
delivered through enhanced teamwork.
As expected, we have reduced our
overhead roles by c.60 heads and will
deliver annualised savings in FY26, with
savings already being delivered this year.
Our flatter and leaner organisation will
enable more agile execution, faster two‑way
communication and enable our talented
workforce to fulfil their potential.
We were pleased to see a significantly
higher participation rate in our engagement
survey of 61% (FY23: 50%), with colleagues
in our factories and distribution centres
participating for the first time. Our
engagement score of 6.7 (down from 7.4
in FY23) reflects the year of change and
business challenge. Each location and
team identified three improvement actions
to deliver a better place to work and we
look forward to reporting more broadly on
our progress in our next Annual Report.
Our goal remains to have a motivated,
skilled and engaged workforce and we
will continue to drive progress towards
achieving upper quartile industrial
engagement scores of >75.
Diversity, equity and inclusion
As I have travelled around our business, I
have been encouraged by diversity across
our global sites. In the UK, I am encouraged
that our gender pay gap report shows
that we have equity at the median on pay.
Whilstthese are positive indicators, we
will be strengthening our commitment
to providing equal opportunity and an
environment where everyone is valued and
can be successful. Read more about D,E&I
on page 44.
We work
with integrity
We respect
everyone
We care about
theenvironment
We’re agile and
forward thinking
We’re passionate
and courageous
8
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
CEO review continued
Our culture and values continued
Environmental, social and governance
My thanks to Louis Eperjesi who, as Chair of
our Board Responsible Business Committee,
has led and will continue to lead a focused
review of our commitments aligned with
our strategy. Read more in our being a
responsible business section on pages 37 to
54. Delivering on carbon reduction through
actions such as solar panel installation at
our TR operations, converting our electricity
supply contracts to zero carbon and
driving energy efficiency projects across
all our locations represent actions we are
committed to delivering on as we drive for a
67.2% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions
by 2035.
From a governance perspective, we
have refreshed our approach to risk and
compliance management, recognising
that these are key drivers of delivering our
strategy and ensuring we are operating to
the highest ethical standards. An example
of this is the progress we have made on the
forthcoming CBAM legislation. Read more
on pages 51 and 58.
Technology
I am pleased to report that we completed
Project Atlas with the most recent go‑live at
our Houston location delivered at the end of
March2024.
The tangible benefits in having this
technology platform gave us the ability to
consolidate our UK distribution facilities
into our purpose‑built National Distribution
Centre in Walsall, UK, with our final location
integration completed inJune2024.
Standard and visible management data is
critical for our business to enable control on
inventories and supply chain management,
operational efficiency improvement within
our distribution centres and commercial
optimisation with customers and suppliers.
Looking ahead, we are using this technology
platform to build further value creation
opportunities with ‘Connect360’ and
‘Virtual Engineer’, exciting examples of
strategy execution enablingprojects.
Connect360, Trifast’s cutting‑edge
customer engagement solution, presents
a transformative perspective on customer
relations. Crafted and executed internally
by our Technology Innovation Team, this
gives Trifast an all encompassing portrayal
of customer activities and will go live in
July 2024. By amalgamating data from
our ERP platforms, quoting systems,
website interactions and third‑party
sources, Connect360 equips users with
comprehensive, near‑real‑time insights
essential for bolstering customer support
and fuelling business expansion, all
consolidated within a single platform.
Virtual Engineer represents Trifast’s
commitment to delivering unparalleled
fastening product information, catering
to both customers and staff through an
interactive conversational interface and we
anticipate launching this later in the year.
Leveraging AI technology to combine
Trifast’s engineering prowess with
our extensive knowledge base and
fastening datasets means users can
effortlessly seek guidance tailored to
their specific requirements. The Virtual
Engineer seamlessly directs users to
relevant product listings on our website,
accompanied by drawings, 3D models and
instructional videos, ensuring an enriched
userexperience.
Innovation
Supporting our customers with engineering
solutions is a differentiator for Trifast, and I
am proud of our engineering and innovation
capability. We conduct and provide a wide
range of support for our customers from
value engineering proposals, product
teardown and simplification through to
design innovation with our EPW screw
and Plas‑Tech 30‑20®, recent examples of
our success. We conduct this work in our
innovation centres in the UK, Sweden and
Italy, with plans to establish centres in Asia
and North America to support customers in
these regions.
Read more about our EPW screw
and Plas-Tech 30-20® on our website
at www.trfastenings.com/company/
newsroom-and-media/product-news
Iain Percival
Chief Executive Officer
9
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
CEO review continued
Our purpose is to sustainably drive our customers’ success by simplifying their
fastener supply chain and supporting them in their technical requirements
through our world-class engineering and manufacturing capabilities
When starting our strategic review process
last year, we felt it important to reflect on
the strong legacy of being a passionately
customer focused business whilst taking
the time to understand how their needs
are changing and how our differentiated
capabilities at Trifast can ensure that we
Recover, Rebuild and deliver a Resilient future.
Our new purpose statement above, is a
consequence of customer, employee and
other external stakeholder feedback and
helps us shape our new focused business
strategy. We recognise that our role is to
help our customers remove and manage
complexity in their fastener supply chain and
add value to our relationship through the
engineering and manufacturing talent and
capabilities we have. We are rightly proud
of the high‑quality, reliable and responsive
solutions that we provide our customers every
day and of the knowledge and expertise we
can leverage to help themsucceed.
Our ambition, described through our
Recover, Rebuild, Resilience journey, is to
create a high‑performing Trifast that is a
safe, inclusive and an enjoyable place to
work for our employees and operates at the
upper quartile of the industrial peer group
performance resiliently.
We recognise that whilst Trifast retained
strong performance for our customers, our
fragmented strategy and business model
meant we lost momentum in delivering
sustainable and acceptable financial returns.
Our new business strategy sets out the
approach we will take to address the short,
medium and longer‑term delivery of a
sustainable and profitable growth business.
Recover Rebuild Resilience
Longer term
Sustainable returns >10%
EBIT: 10%
Medium termFY24
EBIT: 5.1%
Medium‑term refers to FY27; Longer‑term refers to FY30.
10
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Our new strategic direction
We have new values to support our purpose and vision
Recognising that Trifast is beginning a new chapter and that we are seeking to achieve a cultural change aligned to our One TR culture, we have taken the opportunity to update
ourvalues. As we embed them throughout the organisation, they will be aligned to our new People Performance Management process, enabling us to hold ourselves to them through
ourbehaviours.
We work with
integrity
We’re agile and
forward thinking
We respect
everyone
We care about
theenvironment
We’re
passionate and
courageous
• We respect and value our
past and strive to build an
even stronger future
• We build trust through
delivering on our promises
and actions
• We work and collaborate as
One TR
We are rightly proud of
our 50‑year history as a
customer‑focused fastening
supply chain solutions partner.
We commit ourselves to
improve so that we can build a
stronger future. We build trust
by doing what we say, we hold
ourselves and each other to
account for our actions. We
are committed to our One TR
culture where the decisions
and actions we take are in the
best interests of the Group
first, region or function second,
site or team third and finally
ourselves.
• We seek continual
improvement and a culture
of making thingsbetter
• We strive to do our best
work and to continually learn
and develop
• We relish new challenges
with a positive attitude
Our world is changing faster
than ever before and we
recognise that to be successful,
we all need to bring our best
self to work and to challenge
ourselves and our colleagues
for continuous improvement as
we learn and grow together. We
look into this changing world
with appetite for change and a
desire to deliver positively.
• We respect and embrace
fresh thinking and newideas
• We celebrate diversity and
welcome a culture where our
people can bethemselves
• We listen and learnfrom
each other and seek to
create a safeworking
environment
We are open and inclusive in
our behaviour and attitude,
respecting everyone that we
interact with and we celebrate
diversity within a culture where
we all can be ourselves at work.
We care about ourselves and
each other and work to ensure
we all stay safe and go home
safe every day.
• We strive to reduce our
impact on theenvironment
• We’ve committed to finding
new ways of business
that are better for the
environment
• We aspire to be net zero
We are committed to reduce
our impact on the environment
and look for innovative ways to
achieve this with an ambition of
achieving a net zero business.
• We challenge the status
quo and find solutions
toproblems
• We bring our passion and
engineering excellence to
bethe best at what we do
• We constantly evolve to
be there to deliver value
for our customers as
their businesses continue
tochange
We recognise the need to
change how we operate
and passionately drive for
increased customer value
by collaboratively solving
problems. We are brave and
bold in our actions and are
unafraid to constructively
challenge ourselves and
each other to bring the best
solutions.
11
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Our new strategic direction continued
We aim to focus our short-term growth in industries where we already have a
presence, and in high-growth and sustainable sectors for the medium and
longer term. We retain our strategic customer base where it is profitable
• Customers across a broad range of industries
• High exposure to automotive
• Focus on profitable parts ofautomotiveindustry
• Develop customers in smart infrastructure
• Small bets on longer‑term, high‑growth segments
such as medical equipment
• Automotive and smart infrastructure become
keysegments
• Bets on high‑growth segments pay off
ascustomersmature
• Balanced market mix supported by structured
growth drivers
Automotive
Automotive
Automotive
Medical
equipment
Smart
infrastructure
Smart
infrastructure
General
industrial
Energy,
tech &
infrastructure
Health
& home
Medical
equipment
Distributors
Distributors
Distributors
Other
Lighting
Lighting
DCC
2
DCC
2
Power
Power
Water
Water
HVAC
3
HVAC
3
Other
Other
Longer termMedium termFY24
1
Light
vehicle
systems
Light
vehicle
systems
Heavy
vehicle
Heavy
vehicle
Healthcare
technology
Medical
robotics
Medical
equipment
1. The FY24 financial results are based on the six industrial sectors identified above
2. DCC (Data, Communication & Connectivity)
3. HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning)
12
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Our new strategic direction continued
Automotive Smart infrastructure Medical equipment
This sector already represents our largest and most
global revenue base, with Trifast holding strong
positions with many of the world’s leading automotive
Tier 1 system suppliers. Critically, we see continued
growth potential, however, we recognise the need to
balance growth with a more risk‑managed contractual
relationship and be focused on technologies and systems
which will be applied to future vehicle platforms.
Our current energy, tech & infrastructure sector,
which is our second largest revenue stream, has
been relabelled deliberately as smart infrastructure,
reflecting our focus on five subsegments of growth
related to smart and interconnected cities and
homes (lighting, HVAC, water, power and data,
communication and connectivity). We have identified
these five specific segments and the customer
types within them as having the best fit to our value
proposition and technical capabilities.
Within our current health & home sector, we identified
a high‑growth segment of medical equipment, where
Trifast already has captured initial business but where
we feel there is significant opportunity for growth.
From our customer and market insight, we believe
there is a strong fit with Trifast’s value proposition,
geographic footprint and capabilities. Recognising
the longer lead time to build relationships and satisfy
qualification and regulatory requirements in this
sector, we expect this to be a medium to long‑term
growthengine.
13
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Our new strategic direction continued
As part of our strategy formation, we have conducted extensive analysis on our existing and potential alternative industrial markets, looking both
geographically and sector-wise at future forecast growth versus the industrial average. From a shortlist of growth sectors identified, we then evaluated
customer needs using a combination of internal data and external insight, including structured customer interviews, matching them against our value
proposition and our current market position. Based on this approach, we have identified three profitable growth sectors on which we will focus
14
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Our new strategic direction continued
Customers that select TR are those that recognise the added value
that our engineering and manufacturing competencies bring
As part of our analysis to form our strategy,
we interviewed a range of customers to get
their voice on what is most important to
them.
Linking back to our new purpose and
vision, we can see that the feedback we’ve
received validates that our offering of
supply chain simplification, engineering and
innovation and manufacturing will meet
and exceed our customer requirements.
TR is well positioned in servicing customer
needs, especially in the three‑target growth
sectors.
TR scores highly in a primary need of
customers to work with them on design
solutions, with recent examples being our
EPW screw and Plas‑Tech 30‑20®.
We continue to invest in our engineering
and innovation centres to build out this
core strength and drive faster development
within our chosen market sectors.
TR also scores highly on quality, we
recognise the importance of delivering
reliable products to our customers and both
our own manufacturing capabilities and our
closely managed supply base are delivering
exceptional quality performance.
TR is seen as competitive within the
market and our aim is to ensure we are
delivering value rather than the cheapest
price. Customers that select TR are
those that recognise the added value
that our engineering and manufacturing
competencies bring and this helps develop
longer‑term successful relationships.
Wehave an ongoing active programme
of customer evaluation to ensure we are
deploying our resources, efforts and capital
on those customers with whom we have the
right long‑term value creation potential.
TR scores very highly on great customer
service, clearly this strong foundation of
being both responsive as well as providing
value‑added services such as engineering
lunch and learn sessions provides our
customers with reassurance and confidence
in our ability to service their needs.
Whilst TR scores lower on providing the
full range of technology solutions for
supply chain simplification, our offering
is seen as competitive in the market and
we will address the technology solutions
gap through partnerships with established
solutions providers where our customers
specify that as a requirement.
Importantly, hearing from our customers
also guides us on what is less important
to them and this allows us to internally
prioritise the right solutions.
Read more on our website at
www.trfastenings.com/company/
newsroom-and-media/product-news
Our new strategic direction continued
Trifast currently performs well against competitors
across the most important customer needs
What our customers want
Co-operation
in design
Suppliers who provide
recommendations in the early
design phase toimprove
function and reduce costs.
High-quality
products
Important for mission critical
parts, e.g. racks in data
centres, EV batteries.
Good
price
Customers look for good
value and frequently review
contracts to negotiate prices
if necessary.
Proactive
customer service
Regular communication and
suppliers who go the extra
mile to ensure issues are
swiftly resolved.
Supply chain
simplification toolkit
Solutions to de‑risk the
supply chain.
How we are
wellpositioned
Engineering assistance
inallstages of design
Engineering team collaborate
on design, e.g. CAD
• Line walks to suggest
product improvements
or special parts to
consolidate inventory
Competitive position
How we are
wellpositioned
Guaranteed productquality
From a combination of
in‑house manufacturing,
technical expertise, and a
trusted supplier network
for products not produced
in‑house
Competitive position
How we are
wellpositioned
Price competitiveness
Willing to offer prices equal
or more competitive than
others
Competitive position
How we are
wellpositioned
Regular and attentive
customer engagement
• Regular meetings to
review stock
• Facilitate education
byorganising lunch
andlearn sessions
Competitive position
How we are
wellpositioned
Tech-enabled VMI
• Software for demand
forecasting and
e‑commerce
• Hardware for inventory
management, e.g.
RFID, weighted bins,
vendingmachines
Competitive position
Less‑developed Lower‑quality Premium Less‑developed Less‑developedWell‑developed High‑quality Value Well‑developed Well‑developed
Our new strategic direction continued
15
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Better management of our margins.
Meaning we manage inflationary costs
through pricing and sourcing efficiencies,
we actively address lower‑margin
customers and drive value engineering
activities to enhance margins, using our
technology platforms and data analytics
tools such as TRuProfit™.
Gaining share of wallet and building
profitable revenue by targeting
customer opportunities in the three
identified focused growth sectors of
automotive, smart infrastructure and
medicalequipment.
Making sure we have the right people
in the right place and therefore the
capabilities that allow us to be more
productive, with effective management
of our controllable costs.
Driving labour and asset utilisation
efficiencies across our distribution
centres, manufacturing operations and
customer and supplier supply chains.
Using technology and capital investments
to accelerate delivery of efficiency
improvements.
Much of what we can deliver is through
self‑help, and our initial focus will
be on driving and delivering those
actions whilst we build the longer‑term
market‑driven actions that will position us
for accelerated profitable growth as the
geographic and market sectors recover.
Organisational
effectiveness
Margin
management
Operational
efficiency
Focused
growth
16
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
To deliver our medium-term strategic goal of at least
10% EBIT, we have identified four key strategic initiatives
Our new strategic direction continued
EBIT margin bridge
FY24
5.2%
c.1-2%
10.0%
Business as
usual
Right people, right place,
right structure
Net cost inflation
Through better
utilisation of our assets
Share of wallet and new smart
infrastructure business
Margin
management
Focused
growth
Organisational
effectiveness
Operational
efficiency
c.(2)-(3)%
c.1%
c.2%
c.3%
• Better management of less profitable
customers
• Sourcing efficiencies
17
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Our new strategic direction continued
Our business model proposition to customers is supply chain
simplification, supported by engineering and manufacturing.
It plays to our current capabilities and to the needs of our customers
Delivering growth through our business model
Supply
chain
simplification
• Delivering a solution that removes
administration, engineering and supply
chain complexity, allowing our customers
to focus on higher‑value components
• Establishes intricate relationships with
customers as we address their needs
• Our customers currently view our
capabilities in this area assufficient
• Providing customers with custom and
non‑custom manufactured products
• Gives customers assurance of supply
chain and quality
• We have strong manufacturing
capabilities in Asia and Europe,
and aim to further enhance our
manufacturing footprint globally
Manufacturing
Our competitive strengths How we deliver value
From the customer feedback, we have identified three core strengths that define
our value proposition.
Engineering
Because we are a business focused
on engineered fasteners, we also offer
significant engineering capability and
innovation to help drive value, solve
application problems and support new
product development.
Supply chain simplification
Principally, we offer our customers
supply chain simplification: we help take
complexity out of our customers’ supply
chains by managing their fastening Bill
Of Materials needs. Often, our customers
have a large number of specified
engineered fasteners that are making up
just one or two percent of their overall
product value but represent a significant
percentage of the total number of parts
and we can help manage this complexity
– it is our speciality and allows them to
focus on their own core competence
andtechnology.
Manufacturing
With our manufacturing capacities and
capabilities, we offer the confidence
and know‑how of threaded fastener
technology and a high‑quality supply
chain that is capable of manufacturing
critical components in‑house. With
CBAM legislation, having a sustainable
fastener manufacturing capacity and
capability in Europe will create a real
competitive advantage in the market.
As other markets change and evolve, we
will need to adapt this pillar of our value
proposition accordingly.
We are already strong in these areas
and with greater prioritisation on what
we can offer our customers and with the
focus on the right market sectors, we can
now be more targeted in where and how
we do business and develop the right
value‑creating long‑term relationships.
Engineering
• Supporting our customers with
design and technical capabilities
• Forms part of a value‑based
discussion
• Our customers currently view our
capabilities in this area as strong
18
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Creating value for our stakeholders
For our people
Long‑term sustainable growth within
the One TR culture and environment
described through our values ensures
we provide a safe, inclusive, enjoyable
and high‑performing working
environment where all our employees
have the opportunity to achieve
personal growth and fulfilment
For our suppliers
For our trusted network of supplier
partners, we enable equally long‑term
value creation, supporting them with
growth opportunities and aligned
development of a high integrity and
responsible supply chain
For our shareholders
Delivery of our value proposition and
strategy enables Trifast to achieve
long‑term and sustainable shareholder
value creation
For our communities
We are committed to supporting
our local communities wherever we
operate through our employees and
through ensuring that our operations
respect and contribute responsibly
within them
For our customers
Recognising and focusing on our
core competitive strengths and value
proposition allows us to engage in
long‑term, more focused customer
relationships, creating mutual and
sustainable value through which we
deliver on our purpose of sustainably
driving our customers’ success
For our regulators,
governments & NGOs
We ensure that our business is
compliant and operates responsibly
and with the highest ethical standards,
respecting and complying with all
appropriate laws and regulations
Delivering growth through our business model continued
19
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
These metrics are aligned to
our strategic framework and
the majority link to Executive
remuneration
In FY24, 90% of Executive annual bonus
was directly linked to financial KPIs. For
further details, please see the Directors’
remuneration report on page 123.
2.8% 40.8% 5.7%
Our progress in FY24
Underlying profit before tax has reduced
by 100bps primarily due to the negative
margin impact of reduced sales in the
year. Underlying profit before tax was
further reduced by higher interest costs
due to higher interest rates. The reduction
was partially offset by reduced overhead
costs during the year resulting from the
restructuring initiatives
Our progress in FY24
Our working capital as a percentage of
Group revenue has reduced significantly
from 45.9% as at FY23 to 40.8% as at
the year end. This was driven by reduced
inventory levels and reducing our
stockweeks
Our progress in FY24
The increase in ROCE reflects a reduced net
assets base combined with reduced debt,
causing an increase of 30bps in FY24 to
5.7%
Definition
Underlying profit before tax as a
percentage of Group revenue
Definition
Current assets excluding cash and assets
held for sale, less current liabilities
excluding liabilities held for sale,
restructuring provisions and tax payable as
a percentage of Group revenue
Definition
Underlying operating profit as a percentage
of average capital employed (net assets +
gross debt)
Why we measure it
Our aspiration is to become a more
profitable company. Underlying profit
before tax margin enhancement is expected
to come from margin management,
organisational effectiveness, focused
growth and operational efficiencies
Why we measure it
An efficient allocation of capital on the
balance sheet drives improved quality
of earnings and reduces the additional
investment needed to support organic
growth. Working capital efficiency remains
an ongoing focus
Why we measure it
ROCE looks beyond profit to measure
how efficiently we are able to generate
a return to our investors. Enhancing this
metric continues to be a key focus for the
Group. Our strategic priorities and capital
allocation criteria have been specifically set
to support this
Underlying profit before
tax (%)
1
Working capital as a
percentage of revenue (%)
1
Underlying ROCE (%)
1
1. Our KPIs include a number of Alternative Performance Measures (APMs) to provide further information on the Group’s financial performance and position. Where we
refer to ‘underlying’, this is defined as being before separately disclosed items (see note 2). For further details on the APMs, see note 32
2.8%
3.8%
6.3%
2024
2023
2022
5.7%
5.4%
8.3%
2024
2023
2022
40.8%
45.9%
46.5%
2024
2023
2022
20
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Key performance indicators
(31.8)% 0.27 6.7
Our progress in FY24
Overall Scope 1 and 2 emissions for FY24
were 5,564 tonnes CO
2
e against a target
of 6,446. This gives a 31.8% reduction
sinceFY19
Our progress in FY24
The LTI rate for FY24 is 0.27, an increase
from FY23. Our target continues to be
below 1.0
Three lost time incidents occurred, with two
accidents accruing seven days’ lost time,
and the third, one day’s lost time. Hours
worked reduced during this reporting period
Our progress in FY24
The reduced score from FY23 to FY24
reflects the year of change and business
challenge. Throughout FY25, local action
plans and progress will be tracked to ensure
that we actively listen and engage with our
people at all levels
Definition
The percentage reduction in our global
Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions
Definition
Lost time incident rate (LTI) for employees
is a calculation of the number of accidents
leading to work‑related absence, multiplied
by 200,000 and divided by the number of
hoursworked
Definition
The overall rating that our employees have
scored the Group (out of ten) in our latest
Group‑wide employee engagement survey
Why we measure it
We are committed to maintaining high
standards of environmental management.
We are aligning ourselves with the Science
Based Target initiative (SBTi) to ensure our
measurements and targets are meaningful
Why we measure it
LTI rate is an industry‑wide metric for
evaluating significant accidents. As a
business, our aim is to reduce the potential
for injury, targeting significant injuries is
our priority. Our target is zero reportable
incidents and to remain below one for our
lost time incident rate
Why we measure it
It is important that we are aware of how
our employees are feeling on a number
of topics, so we can take any necessary
actions to ensure we continue to
appropriately support our people
CO
2
e reduction
from FY19 baseline
Lost time incident rate Employee engagement
(31.8)%
(26.8)%
(27.6)%
2024
2023
2022
6.7
7.4
7.5
2024
2023
2022
0.27
0.01
0.99
2024
2023
2022
21
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Key performance indicators continued
Section 172(1) of the Companies Act 2006 ‘Duty to promote the success of the company’
requires a Director of a company to act in the way he or she considers, in good faith, would
be most likely to promote the success of the Company for the benefit of its members as a
whole, and in doing so have regard (amongst other matters) to:
Matter Response
a. the likely consequences of any decision
in the long term
Read about our Joint Venture on page
23 and our NDC on pages 23 and27
b. the interests of the company’s
employees
Read about the NDC and TR Norge sale on
page 23 and our people and their safety on
pages 39 to 46
c. the need to foster the company’s
business relationships with suppliers,
customers and others
Read about our Joint Venture and TR
Norge sale on page 23, customer and
supplier engagement on page 25 and
customer engagement as part of the
strategy development on pages14 and 15
d. the impact of the company’s
operations on the community and the
environment
Read about the NDC and TR Norge sale
on pages 23 and 27, and the being a
responsible business section on pages
37 to 54
e. the desirability of the company
maintaining a reputation for high
standards of business conduct
Read about regulators, governments and
NGO’s on page 26, suppliers on page 25,
supply chain on page 51, ethical business
practices on page 53, our ratings and
achievements on page 38 and our Audit &
Risk Committee report on pages 96 to 103
f. the need to act fairly as between
members of the company
Read about our shareholder engagement
on page 24 and the directors remuneration
report, including the consultation on the
New Remuneration Policy, pages131 to 146
and page 105
We are committed to maintaining strong relationships with all our
stakeholders to achieve long-term sustainable success and fulfil our purpose
The Directors recognise the significance of
considering the Company’s responsibilities
and duties for the long term and are focused
on driving the long‑termsustainable
success of the Company for the benefit
ofall stakeholders.
We believe that maintaining strong
relationships with all our stakeholders is key
and that the interests of relevant parties
should be considered when making key
business decisions that may impact them.
The Board also acknowledges its
responsibility to consider the long‑term
impacts of the Company’s decisions
on wider society and the environment.
The principles underpinning S172 are
not only considered at Board level, but
are embedded in everything we do as a
Company.
Principal decisions
We define principal decisions as both those
that are material to the Group, but also
those that are significant to any of our key
stakeholder groups.
In making principal decisions, the Board
takes the course of action that they consider
leads to the success of the Group over the
long term. When doing so, the outcome
from stakeholder engagement as well as
the need to maintain a reputation for high
standards of business conduct, corporate
governance and the need to act fairly
between the members of the Company is
considered.
The Directors acknowledge that every
decision made will not necessarily result in
a positive outcome for all our stakeholders
but by considering the Group’s purpose and
values, together with its strategic priorities,
the Directors aim to make sure its decision
is consistent and predictable.
22
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Section 172(1) statement
National Distribution Centre, UK
We reported last year the aim to make
Trifast a stronger and more efficient
business. One aspect of this was to
restructure our UK subsidiary, TR Fastenings
Ltd, and establish a National Distribution
Centre (NDC). FY24 has seen us open a
brand new 75,000ft
2
facility in the Midlands,
which has allowed us to consolidate UK
warehouse operations.
The decision to reduce UK regional
facilities resulted in the closure of our UK
manufacturing site and four warehouses
during the year, which regrettably led
to redundancies, whilst also creating
employment opportunities locally to the
NDC site.
Throughout the redundancy process, both
Company representatives and employees’
representatives worked closely to manage
employees’ expectations and, where
necessary, exits from the business. Given
the number of employees who were at
risk of redundancy, we submitted the
appropriate documents to the relevant UK
Government agency and worked with our
corporate lawyers, to ensure the process
was carried out in accordance with UK law.
Read more about the NDC
on page 27
Joint Venture, China
During the year we were delighted to
announce the opening of our manufacturing
Joint Venture in Guangdong province, China.
Along with our partners, ChiaYi Precision
Fasteners, this first‑class manufacturing
facility will enable us to better support our
Chinese‑basedcustomers.
TR Norge AS sale
Trifast completed the sale of TR Fastenings
Norway on 3 April 2024 to Otto Olsen
AS. Itwas concluded that the TR Norway
product offering is better aligned to a
distributor model and will provide a solid
and stable base for the Norway team
and enable customers to continue to be
supported by a locally aligned business.
There were no controversies or negative
impacts (including redundancies) from
this decision. Otto Olsen AS is now a TR
distributor, and we look forward to building
a successful relationship with them for many
years to come.
We would like to thank colleagues at TR
Norway for their hard work, dedication
and support over many years. They have
helped grow the Norwegian business to be
a trusted partner to our customers and we
wish all the TR team the very best for the
future as they embark on their journey with
Otto Olsen AS.
Directorship appointments
FY24 saw new appointments of both
Executive and Non‑Executive Board
members. The recruitment process,
supported by Russell Reynolds Associates
and Women on Boards, ensures candidates
have extensive and relevant experience to
add value to their role and the business.
Aswell as experience of the manufacturing
industry, transformation and growth within
the UK and internationally, we have also
increased expertise around workforce
engagement and responsible business.
Read more about our Board
onpages 82 and 83
23
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Section 172(1) statement continued
Why we engage
The Company’s long‑term success depends
on a skilled and motivated workforce.
Attracting and retaining the best people for
our business is a priority and we are focused
on being a responsible and responsive
employer. Our people want to work in an
environment that is safe, where their physical
and mental wellbeing is prioritised. They
want to feel that their voice is heard and that
everyone is treated fairly and equitably.
How we engage
We promote a safe, supportive and inclusive
working environment, allowing our colleagues
to bring their ‘whole self’ to work. Fostering
a culture of professional development and
employee wellbeing that seeks to align our
staff with the strategic goals and objectives in
a collaborative manner.
We run annual and thematical engagement
surveys, giving employees the opportunity
to give their views in a safe and anonymous
manner. We also host open sessions
allowing employees to raise concerns, views
or observations and have their voice.
Our ‘Employee Voice’ programme allows
employees to raise issues or concerns of a
whistleblowing nature 24/7, 365 days per
year. All such issues raised are treated in the
strictest of confidence and with the upmost
respect for the people involved.
It should be noted that this year, there
have been no controversies with regard to
anti‑competition, business ethics, bribery
and corruption, tax fraud, responsible
marketing, privacy or wages and working
conditions during the financial year.
Our newest member of the Board, Laura
Whyte, is appointed as the Designated
Non‑Executive Director for workforce
engagement and will be available to all
employees globally as she establishes the
Board engagement champion more formally
during the coming year.
In addition, open discussions are hosted
and welcomed from employees during any
site visits by Board Directors and Senior
Managers.
We have strengthened internal
communications, briefings and newsletters
throughout FY24 and introduced a monthly
video update to all employees from our CEO
and a more structured leadership cascade.
Engagement during FY24
Between the Board members, the majority
of our sites were visited during FY24,
with the new CEO spending his induction
period working and visiting sites across our
global footprint. The ELT also host regular
face‑to‑face town halls as they attend
locations. These are with smaller groups
and cover key topics such as safety and
engagement.
61% of employees took the time to share
their views with us through the annual
employee survey, participation being
increased by the use of QR codes for our
non‑computer using workforce. The results
provided an average score of 6.7/10, giving
management a good indication of employee
sentiment within the business, particularly
reflecting the UK restructuring.
We also undertook our first employee
commuting survey, with 62% of our
employees completing. This will enable us
to report on Scope 3 carbon emissions for
commuting to work for the first time.
Why we engage
The Board is committed to maintaining
strong relationships with our shareholders
and engages regularly to provide fair,
balanced and understandable information,
ensuring they understand our purpose,
values and strategy and how that
promotesthe long‑term sustainable success
of the Company.
Find details of substantial
shareholdings of the Company
onpage 148
How we engage
A structured programme is operated
throughout the year where management are
available to all shareholders. This includes
the AGM, presentations and roadshows,
all of which are also available through the
Investor Meet Company (IMC) platform.
In addition, all Non‑Executive Directors
have the authority to meet shareholders at
any time and meetings can be arranged as
required and requested.
We also distribute information through
regulatory news releases, our corporate
website, Annual Report and investor
ESGquestionnaires.
Engagement during FY24
Our website updates during FY24 included
trading updates, directorate changes
and PDMR transactions to ensure all
stakeholders, including shareholders, are
fully aware of the Group’s activities during
the year.
Annual results (11 July 2023) and interim
results (21 November 2023) were presented
both in person and via the IMC platform.
Our AGM was held at the offices of our
principal broker, Peel Hunt, in London on
15September 2023. As well as shareholders
attending in person, many also joined online
using the Investor Meet Company (IMC)
platform. The AGM remains an important
opportunity for our shareholders to engage
with the Board. In addition, our Executive
Directors and Committee Chairs all met
current and prospective shareholders
and analysts, covering a range of issues,
including ESG, audit, risk, remuneration and
Company performance.
The Remuneration Committee Chair and
Board Chair both engaged with our larger
shareholders to discuss and consult on
Executive Director remuneration proposals.
Find details of our AGM
onpage 147
Our people Shareholders
Read more about our people
on pages 39 to 46
24
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Stakeholder engagement
Customers Suppliers
Why we engage
We believe that building and maintaining
effective and trusting relationships
generates mutual value and helps us
to understand our customers’ needs
and behaviours. It allows us to deliver
relevant products and services, retain
customers and attract new ones. It also
identifies opportunities for growth and
market differentiation, and our ability to
demonstrate how we are able to deliver on
increasing sustainability expectations and
obligations.
How we engage
We maintain long‑standing partnerships
with our customers, working closely to
provide technical and logistics input while
developing innovative solutions that align
with emerging technologies and legislation.
In addition, we offer online platforms
encompassing digital marketing, social
media and our website.
We provide virtual training to support
customers in understanding our range of
products and to select the right fastener
for each application, including access to a
comprehensive online video library tailored
to specific products and industries. We also
host ‘lunch and learn’ events, production
line walks, on‑site or online fastener
training workshops and Value Analysis
and Value Engineering (VAVE) activities.
Customer questionnaires on ESG practices
and performance are also completed,
including the exacting requirements
of SAQ.4 for automotive, JOSCAR for
aerospace and defence, and the enhanced
criteria of EcoVadis and CDP supply chain
questionnaires.
Engagement during FY24
Attending the Lucy Electric, a major smart
infrastructure customer, Global Supplier
Conference, we were delighted tobe
awarded the Long‑Standing Supplier
award in recognition of the continued
great service we have offered to them for
more than 20 years.
We also won a Honda Malaysia, a major
automotive customer, Supply Award,
demonstrating that even in challenging
economic and supply chain environments,
TR is staying focused on servicing our
customers with great‑quality product.
We hosted several ‘lunch and learn’ days
during the year with key customers, which
gave positive feedback and opportunities.
Throughout the year, we attended various
exhibitions to showcase our products
and services to existing and potential
customers:
• Fastener Fair, Stuttgart, Germany
• Battery Tech Expo, Silverstone, UK
• Advanced Engineering,
Gothenburg,Sweden
• Automotive CEE Day, Opole, Poland
• Automechanika, Birmingham, UK
• NEAA Expo, Sunderland, UK
• Advanced Engineering, Birmingham, UK
• E‑Mobility Asia (EMA), Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia
• Electronics Live, Birmingham, UK
• The Opportunity Series #3,
Northumberland,UK
No controversies or material issues arose
with this group of stakeholders in the year.
Why we engage
We actively engage with our suppliers to
encourage and support them to instil our
own business ethics and values within their
organisations. Building strong relationships
ensures appropriate cost and quality levels
of goods and services, security of supply
and speed to market. We rely on the
high standards of our suppliers to ensure
compliance, drive innovation and deliver
improvements in our overall sustainability
performance.
How we engage
We have an established supplier Code of
Conduct covering quality, sustainability and
compliance criteria with the expectation
for all approved suppliers to sign up to this
Code to ensure that their ESG practices
meet our expected standards. Both
in‑person and virtual supplier meetings
and conferences are conducted on specific
issues, including compliance, quality and
efficiency. This includes the Modern Slavery
Act, data protection and ESG as a broad
subject. We conduct performance reviews
and site audits to ensure suppliers continue
to meet our expected standards and to
build strong, collaborative relationships.
Engagement during FY24
We attended the Fastener Fair in Stuttgart,
Germany, which included a meeting room
where we conducted 26 supplier meetings
over two days.
During a three‑week visit to Taiwan we held
business review meetings with 28 suppliers.
We visited Vietnam in the search for new
suppliers for our business; a successful
trip that identified high‑quality global
suppliers and a new steel supplier for our
Asianfactories.
We continued to work closely with our
suppliers who we require to align to our
Quality & Sustainability Agreement and
Slavery & Human Trafficking Statement.
To date, the Quality & Sustainability
Agreement has been completed by 268
approved suppliers (60.8% of spend) and
our Slavery & Human Trafficking Statement
has now been signed by 613 TR approved
suppliers, which equates to 82.3% of spend.
Our Slavery & Human Trafficking
Statement is available on our
websiteat www.trifast.com
During FY24 we worked with our supply
chain to ensure compliance with the
EU CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment
Mechanism) regulation and began gathering
the carbon emission data from our
suppliers ahead of reporting CO
2
e data in
October2024.
No controversies or material issues arose
with this group of stakeholders in the year.
25
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Stakeholder engagement continued
Community Regulators, governments and NGOs
Why we engage
At Trifast we recognise our operations’
impact on the regions we operate in, and
we are committed to ensuring we interact
responsibly. By supporting local initiatives
and identifying opportunities, Trifast has
the capacity to create significant positive
benefits within the communities we
operatein.
How we engage
We actively support and encourage our
employees in their charitable events and
activities all over the world.
We have good relationships with our
neighbours and conduct regular visits
to each site to ensure we avoid causing
nuisance from noise, dust, light and waste
control issues. Where opportunities to
reduce the impact of our activities occur,
wetakeaction.
Community communication and
complaints are managed by our ISO14001
environmental management system. Our
supply chain includes a large number of
small and specialist suppliers. We are
keen to support small businesses in our
industry and the local economies in which
we operate, and so we engage with smaller
suppliers where needed to build skills
and knowledge, especially in relation to
compliance, efficiency and quality.
Engagement during FY24
Mike Broome, Supply Chain Manager
at our Charlotte site in North America,
has been helping to serve food and
run a mentorship programme at a local
men’s shelter for over three years.
Theshelter supports men to regaintheir
independence and find employment.
The TR Malaysia team gave gifts and
thanks to the local community in
celebration of Chinese New Year.
Our employees in Uckfield, UK, supported
Taylor‑Made Dreams. Founded in 2014
in memory of Taylor Mitchell, the charity
makes dreams come true for children
with life‑limiting illness and provides
counselling and holistic therapy sessions
for the children and their families. Our
colleague, Gail Fay, organised a raffle, with
prizes donated by local businesses, and a
staff Christmas lunch, raising £1,872 and
enabling over 1,500 children, supported
by the charity, to be given a voucher.
The team at TR Houston participated in
Marine Toys for Tots, a programme that
brings the joy of Christmas, through the
gift of a new toy or book, to America’s
disadvantaged children.
Community stories
See our latest news and learn more about
Trifast on our corporate website at
www.trifast.com
Why we engage
Policies and regulatory changes, including
changes to the global political landscape
and laws and regulations affecting terms
of trade, may provide opportunities and
pose risk to our operations. At a local level,
we also engage on operating frameworks,
environmental standards, worker safety and
ethical conduct.
How we engage
Through public disclosures (including the
Annual Report and AGM) and specific
submissions (such as those relating to
packaging and controlled materials within
our products), we engage with government
departments in countries where we operate.
TR is an active member of EFDA (European
Fastener Distributor Association) which
represents the interests of fastener
distributors at European and global level.
TR UK is also an active member of the
British & Irish Association of Fastener
Distributors (BIAFD) which supports and
represents more than 100 industrial fastener
distributors throughout the United Kingdom
and the Republic of Ireland. In addition, our
subsidiaries around the world are actively
engaged with their regional associations.
Engagement during FY24
During FY24, we continued to make
all necessary compliance declarations
and submissions including market
announcements, compliance disclosures
related to packaging materials, greenhouse
gas emissions and controlled materials
within our products (including SCIP, RoHS
and REACH).
TR is working in collaboration with EFDA to
streamline the EU CBAM reporting process.
We are also working with EFDA lobbying for
simplified reporting process.
We continue working closely with BIAFD
regarding the UK CBAM regulation which is
due to start in January 2027.
EFDA and BIAFD working together on the
recent Russian sanctions on iron and steel
assisted simplified movement of goods
between the EU and the UK.
26
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Stakeholder engagement continued
Located in Walsall in the Midlands, the NDC
implementation was part of an initiative
to consolidate UK sites to create a more
efficient and modern workingenvironment.
As a wider part of this initiative, the
manufacturing site and warehouse in
Uckfield, East Sussex, was closed, with
the buildings and machines sold to a
thirdparty, providing additional cash
flowfor the Company to invest in its
futureinfrastructure.
After agreeing the warehouse design, the
UK team worked at pace to fit out the
NDC and make it operationally ready. The
Uckfield warehouse stock was transferred
in September 2023, coinciding with the sale
of that site, and the first stock was invoiced
from the NDC the same month. The Board is
proud of everyone who made this possible.
During H2 FY24, stock from the Tipton,
West Midlands and Scotland sites were also
transferred to the NDC, with the Manchester
move completed in June 2024.
During the period of stock transfers into
the NDC, the UK teams made every effort
to ensure an efficient process in order to
minimise disruption to our customers and,
despite some initial challenges, service
levels are now in line with those of our
previous locations.
Phase one of the NDC was focused on
reducing our footprint and consolidating
locations. Phase two will see the Company
review opportunities to streamline its
operations through more efficient ways
of working, process standardisation and
potential automation.
This first‑class facility offers a modern and
vibrant working environment to our staff
which will better enable us to develop our
people, with space and plans for learning
and development. We also have the UK
engineering and innovation centre based
here that we look forward to inviting our
customers to.
The NDC has been designed for growth
and we are confident this will result in
exciting developments for our customers,
and signals our intent and capability to
modernise our business, making it fitter
and leaner for years to come and a
success to beproud of.
TR UK successfully opened our National
Distribution Centre, a brand new 75,000ft
2
facility
27
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
National Distribution Centre
As highlighted in Iain’s CEO review (see
page 6), we faced various challenges
but also celebrated some significant
achievements as we commenced our
Recover, Rebuild, Resilience journey
inFY24.
Recover
We have significantly stabilised our balance
sheet through control of inventories and
subsequent reduction of net debt.
Rebuild
Despite the challenging year and revenue
decline, we made gross and EBIT margin
improvements through our commitment
to deliver better gross margins and offset
inflationary pressures through a reduction in
non‑operating headcount.
We are especially proud of the consolidation
of the National Distribution Centre in the
Midlands and the successful completion of
the Atlas project with the implementation of
D365 in Houston, Texas.
FY25 will see a greater focus on efficiency
targets during our Rebuild phase. This will
drive our strategic mid‑term commitment to
achieve 10% EBIT margin.
Resilience
Beyond FY25, we see significant
opportunity for sustainable growth.
Wehave refreshed our strategy and are
committed to executing it successfully.
FY24 revenue declined by (2.7)% to
£237.9m (AER: (4.4)% to £233.7m; FY23:
£244.4m). It was a challenging year with
performance hampered by volatile demand
in the distribution business and customer
destocking activity.
Gross margin was 25.5%, 20bps higher
thanFY23 (AER: 25.4% and 10bps higher
than FY23).
Pricing initiatives countered the impact
of cost inflation (on raw materials,
freight and supply of energy), and
higher‑than‑anticipated costs to consolidate
the UK distribution into one National
Distribution Centre (NDC). We expect most
of the benefits for the NDC willbe realised
in FY25.
Underlying operating profit was £12.7m,
£0.7m higher than last year (FY23: £12.0m).
On an AER basis it was in line with the last
year.
On 2 June 2023, the Group signed a new
revolving credit facility (RCF) agreement,
supported by a UK Export Finance – Export
Development Guarantee (UKEF – EDG)
agreement, providing a combined facility
limit of £120.0m. Interest margins on the
new facilities increased within a range of
between 2.1%‑3.6%, in line with market
conditions.
We are especially proud of the consolidation of
the National Distribution Centre in the Midlands
and the successful completion of the Atlas project
Kate Ferguson
Interim Chief
Financial Officer
Unless stated otherwise, amounts and comparisons with prior year are calculated at constant currency
(Constant Exchange Rate (CER). Where we refer to ‘underlying’ this is being defined as being before
separately disclosed items (see note 2 and 32).
28
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Financial review
Resilience continued
The higher interest and average borrowings resulted in a £2.7m increase in net finance expense which reduced the underlying profit before tax to £7.2m (AER: £6.5m; FY23: £9.3m).
As a response to the higher interest rates, the Group focused efforts on improving working capital to reduce net debt.
Consequently, adjusted net debt reduced to £21.0m (FY23: £38.0m) primarily due to the significant reduction in gross inventory to £82.3m from £98.7m in FY23.
The leverage ratio under the new banking arrangement was 1.3x (FY23: 2.2x under old facility). This remains within the covenant range of <3.0x. An addendum to our interest cover
covenant was signed in May2024 and the ratio was 3.6x as at 31March, within the temporary covenant range of 3.5x. Headroom under the new facility was £76.7m. Details of the
refinancing arrangement are provided later in note 26 ofthe financial statements.
Constant currency comparison
FY24 saw some strengthening of the British Pound against the Singapore Dollar, Taiwanese Dollar, Swedish Krona, Chinese Renminbi, Malaysian Ringgit and US Dollar. This reduced the
value of AER sales by £4.2m and AER underlying profit before tax by £0.7m on translation into British Pounds.
Unless stated otherwise, amounts and comparisons with prior year are calculated at constant currency (Constant Exchange Rate (CER)).
Our Group performance
Underlying measures
CER
FY24
CER
change
AER
FY24
AER
change
AER
FY23
Revenue
£237.9m
(2.7)%
£233.7m
(4.4)% £244.4m
Gross profit %
25.5%
20bps
25.4%
10bps 25.3%
Underlying operating profit (UOP)
1
£12.7m
5.7%
£11.9m
(0.3)% £12.0m
Underlying operating profit %
1
5.3%
40bps
5.1%
20bps 4.9%
Underlying profit before tax
1
£7.2m
(22.2)%
£6.5m
(29.8)% £9.3m
Underlying diluted earnings per share
1
—
—
1.62p
(68.4)% 5.13p
Adjusted leverage ratio
1,3
—
—
1.3x
(0.9)x 2.2x
Adjusted net debt
1,2
—
—
£(21.0)m
£17.0 m £(38.0)m
Return on capital employed (ROCE)
1
—
—
5.7%
30bps 5.4%
GAAP measures
Operating (loss)/profit
—
—
£4.6m
n/a £(0.0)m
Operating (loss)/profit %
—
—
2.0%
200bps (0.0)%
(Loss)/profit before tax
—
—
£(0.8)m
70.4% £(2.7)m
Diluted (loss)/earnings per share
—
—
(3.29)p
(55.2)% (2.12)p
1. Before separately disclosed items (see notes 2 and 32)
2. Adjusted net debt is stated excluding the impact of IFRS 16 Leases. Including right‑of‑use lease liabilities, net debt increases by £(18.4)m to £(39.4)m (FY23: net debt increases by £(15.8)m to £(53.8)m)
3. Adjusted leverage ratio is calculated using adjusted net debt against adjusted underlying EBITDA (see note 32)
29
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Financial review continued
Dividend policy
As a Board we are proposing the final
dividend in FY24 at 1.20p (FY23: 1.50p).
This, together with the interim dividend
of 0.60p (paid on 11 April 2024), brings
the total for the year to 1.80p per share
(FY23: 2.25p). The final dividend, subject
to shareholder approval at the AGM, will be
paid on 11 October 2024 to shareholders
on the register at the close of business on
13 September 2024. The ordinary shares
will become ex‑dividend on 12 September
2024. The underlying dividend cover is
currently 0.9x, the Board considers that
an appropriate future level of underlying
dividend cover is in the range of
3.0xto4.0x.
Dividend progression
1.
FY20
Interim Final Total
1
FY21FY22FY23
FY24
1.20p
0.60p
1.50p
0.75p
1.20p
1.60p
1.40p
0.70p
In FY20 and FY21, one dividend payment was made, rather
than an interim and final, due to the impact of Covid‑19
Five-year dividend cover
FY20FY21FY22FY23
FY24
0.9x
2.3x
7.2x
3.9x3.9x
FX effects on revenue (£m)
FY24 FY21FY22FY23
CER AER
237.9
233.7
188.2 188.1
233.3
218.6
238.5
244.4
FX effects on underlying operating profit (£m)
FY24 FY21FY22FY23
CER AER
12.7
11.9
12.1
12.0
15.2
14.7
11.2
12.0
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
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Financial review continued
Revenue
Revenue in FY24 decreased by 2.7% to
£237.9m (FY23: 244.4m), driven by decline
in distribution sales in the UK and market
slowdown in Asia, leading to customer
destocking, offset by growth in light
vehicles across all regions.
Revenue by sector (CER)
Europe has seen revenues increase 3.8%
to £88.9m (FY23: £85.7m), driven by the
uplift in the light and heavy vehicle sectors
in Sweden, helped by new and existing
customers transitioning to EV technology,
and during FY24, we successfully completed
the transfer of the European distribution
business from the UK to TR Germany.
Hungary continues to be impacted by the
current downturn in customer demand and
the ongoing Ukraine conflict, whilst our
manufacturing facility in Italy is starting
to see some recovery in legacy business
and new business opportunities from
manufacturing investment.
In Asia, we have reported a 9.3% decrease
in revenue to £54.8m (FY23: £60.4m),
mainly driven by the distributor sector and
the continuing softness in the Asia market.
China is still experiencing low consumer
demand following the Pandemic shutdowns
and the general macroeconomic climate.
The result also appears less favourable in
comparison to TR Taiwan’s outstanding
performance in FY23. There was however a
significant uplift in the light vehicle sector in
Malaysia and Thailand.
UK & Ireland’s revenue reduced by 10.5%
to £77.5m (FY23: £86.7m) due to reduced
distribution sales as a blend of volume
(destocking and demand), lower market
pricing and the completed transfer of
distribution business to TR Germany.
The decline has been partially offset by
revenues from contract OEM customers
from new wins secured in FY23.
North America demonstrates continued
growth, mainly in the light vehicle sector,
offset by declines in E,T&I and general
industrial sectors, resulting in revenue of
£30.2m (FY23: £29.9m).
Gross profit (CER)
Gross profit was 25.5%, 20bps above
last year (FY23: 25.3%), driven by pricing
initiatives which offset the impact of
inflation and reduced revenues.
Revenue by sector (CER)
Revenue by region (CER)
1
UOP (CER)
2
1. Revenue by regions include intercompany sales
2. After deducting central costs
General industrial £27.2m | -17.4% | (FY23: £32.9m)
Health & home £43.9m | -2.7% |
(FY23: £45.1m)
Heavy vehicle £14.5m | +8.0% | (FY23: £13.4m)
Light vehicle £82.3m | +21.7% | (FY23: £67.7m)
Distributors £32.9m | -24.3% | (FY23: £43.4m)
Energy, tech & infrastructure £37.1m | -11.4% |
(FY23: £41.9m)
£237.9m
Total revenue
UK & Ireland £77.5m | (FY23: £86.7m)
Europe £88.9m | (FY23: £85.7m)
Asia £54.8m | (FY23: £60.4m)
North America £30.2m | (FY23: £29.9m)
£237.9m
Total revenue
-2.7%
UK & Ireland £3.4m | (FY23: £5.5m)
Europe £6.1m | (FY23: £2.9m)
Asia £8.4m | (FY23: £9.5m)
North America £1.6m | (FY23: £1.3m)
£12.7m
Total UOP
5.3%
31
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
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Financial review continued
CER underlying operating profit
The underlying operating profit (UOP) increased to £12.7m with a UOP margin of 5.3%
(FY23: 4.9%).
Underlying operating profit by region (before allocating separately disclosed items)
FY24 FY23
Profit/(loss)
£m
Margin
%
Profit/(loss)
£m
Margin
%
UK & Ireland
3.4 4.4%
5.5 6.4%
Europe
6.1 6.9%
2.9 3.4%
Asia
8.4 15.4%
9.5 15.7%
North America
1.6 5.4%
1.3 4.2%
Central costs
(6.9) n/a
(7. 2) n/a
Group 12.7 5.3%
12.0 4.9%
In Europe, UOP margins increased 350bps to 6.9% and operating profit improved to £6.1m
(FY23: 3.4% and £2.9m). In addition to the transfer of the distribution business from the UK
to TR Germany, there was higher margin in Sweden and significant margin improvement
in TR Italy resulting from actions last year to manage rising costs, price increases and
improved plant utilisation.
In the UK & Ireland, UOP margins decreased from 6.4% to 4.4% with UOP at £3.4m (FY23:
£5.5m). Decline in distribution sales was the main contributor, offset by improvement in the
light vehicle sector following the reduction in semiconductor shortages.
The lower UOP also included the transfer of the European distribution business to Germany
and was partially offset by the delivery of costs savings from the NDC.
UOP in Asia has decreased from £9.5m to £8.4m at a UOP margin of 15.4% (FY23: 15.7%).
Consumer demand in China was low in our second half year and overall general market
softness impacted across the Asia region. During the period, we did however see a
significant upliftin light vehicle activity at TR Malaysia and Thailand, together with price
increases inTR Malaysia.
North America UOP increased £0.3m to £1.6m, a 5.4% margin (FY23: £1.3m, 4.2%). The
improvement was driven by new contract wins in the light vehicle sector across several
vehicle models. Production started on new models in the second half of FY24 at a higher
margin, while production ended for several older lower‑margin models. The other sectors
general decline was driven by customers burning through their excess stock following
thePandemic.
Central improved to a loss of £6.9m (FY23: £7.2m), driven by operational efficiencies and
reduction in headcount as part of a series of self‑helpinitiatives.
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
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Financial review continued
Operating profit (at AER)
After adjusting items of £5.5m (FY23: £10.2m) and amortisation of acquired intangible
assets of £1.7m (FY23: £1.8m), operating profit increased to £6.6m (FY23: <£0.1m).
Separately disclosed items include:
FY24
£000
FY23
£000
Acquired intangible amortisation
(1,780)
(1,798)
Project Atlas
(2,079)
(1,722)
Restructuring and related charges
(1,491)
(4,235)
Impairment of non‑current assets
(1,964)
(2,926)
Settlement for loss of office
—
(1,050)
Aborted acquisition costs
—
(261)
Total (7, 314)
(11,992)
• Acquired intangible amortisation £1.8m (FY23: £1.8m)
• Project Atlas £2.1m (FY23: £1.7m) relating to the implementation of D365 across selected
sites and impairment of ‘customer engagement’ software
• Restructuring and related charges £1.5m (FY23: £4.2m) which includes £2.4m of
set‑up costs for the National Distribution Centre in the Midlands (UK) and £1.1m costs
associated with restructuring programmes initiated to reduce headcount, offset by the
£2.0m profit on the sale of the freehold land and building at Bellbrook Park, Uckfield
• Impairment of non‑current assets £2.0m (FY23: £2.9m) relates to the TR Hungary cash
generating unit. FY23 related to impairment of goodwill at TR Italy
Details of all adjusting items are shown in note 2 to the consolidated financial statements.
Administrative costs before separately disclosed items (at AER)
FY24
£000
FY23
£000
Segment administrative costs
34,409
36,528
Central administrative costs
6,912
7,200
Total administrative costs before
separately disclosed items 41,321 43,728
Administrative expenses decreased by 5.5%, primarily due to the reduction in
non‑operating headcount, offset by the impact of inflationary pay pressures.
Net financing costs
Net interest costs have increased to £5.4m (FY23: £2.7m), primarily due to base interest
rates increasing (EURIBOR 1m in FY23 ranged from c.(0.5)% to 3% vs EURIBROR 1m FY24
ranging from c.3%‑4%), amortising of arrangement fees from signing the new finance
facilities agreements as well as the margin increasing under the new finance facilities (see
net debt section). This is offset slightly by a reduction in average borrowings (excluding
IFRS 16 and arrangement fees) in the year to £58.6m (FY23: £66.1m). The increase in net
interest costs significantly reduced headroom on the interest cover covenant (>4.0x).
With the support of lenders and UKEF, we temporarily reduced interest cover to 3.5x for
December 2023 and March 2024 quarterly covenant periods and post year end formally
agreed to amend the interest cover covenant to:
• Up until 30 September 2025 covenant period – 3.25x
• 31 December 2025 – 30 September 2026 covenant periods – 3.5x
• Thereafter it will return to the original 4.0x levels
At 31 March 2024, interest cover was 3.6x (FY23: 7.8x). Forecast projections show
headroom increasing on the covenants as we see the higher interest charge months fall out
of the rolling 12‑month calculation. There is also increased focus on cash efficiency to pay
down borrowings and reduce interest charge with additional projects being considered in
FY25 to further enhance cash efficiency.
33
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
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Financial review continued
Operating cash flow (AER)
The Group has seen excellent operating cash flow in 2024. Operating cash flow from
operations was £31.9m (FY23: £6.5m), equating to a cash conversion of underlying EBITDA
of 173.0% (FY23: 33.6%). The improvement was driven by the material reduction in working
capital: net inventory reduced by £15.0m (FY23: £0.2m) and trade creditors increased by
£3.6m (FY23: decreased by £11.7m).
Net debt (AER)
The Group’s adjusted net debt has decreased by £17.0m to £21.0m (FY23: £38.0m)
supported by an operating cash inflow before working capital of £14.2m. This was
partially offset by interest payments of £6.7m (including arrangement fees of £1.5m on the
refinancing in the year), tax payments of £3.3m and dividend payments of £3.0m. The net
spend on property, plant, equipment and intangibles was only £0.3m as acquisition of PPE
(£4.6m), primarily relating to our investments in the NDC and in our manufacturing plant in
Italy, were significantly offset with proceeds from sale of PPE (£4.2m) relating to the sale of
the Uckfield premises in the year.
Adjusted net debt bridge
£1.6m
£21.0m
Adjusted
net debt
1
– FY23
Operating
cash
inflow
Stock Creditors Other
working
capital
Capex
(net of
sale
proceeds)
Ta xInterest
Dividend Other Adjusted
net debt
1
– FY24
£38.0m
£(3.6)m
£0.9m
£0.3m
£3.3m
£6.7m
£3.0m
£(14.2)m
£(15.0)m
Increase Decrease Total
Banking facilities
The Group signed new banking facilities in June 2023 to support our focus on growth. The
two agreements provide a total facility limit of £120.0m, split between an RCF (£70.0m) and
a UKEF Export Development Guarantee (EDG) (£50.0m). Interest margins have increased
in line with market conditions and will now be within a range of 2.10‑3.60% (compared to
1.10‑2.20% under the previous RCF).
Post year end, KBC Bank NV (KBC) became a lender as part of the RCF agreement. The
facility commitment remained at £70.0m as an existing lender transferred part of their
commitment to KBC. This commitment will support the Group’s treasury strategy and plans
in Eastern Europe.
Taxation (at AER)
The underlying effective tax rate (ETR) is high at 66.6% (FY23: underlying effective tax rate:
25.6%). The higher ETR in FY24 is primarily related to deferred tax assets not recognised on
tax losses and reversal of deferred tax assets on carried forward losses primarily within the
UK region.
Subject to future tax changes and excluding prior year adjustments, our normalised
underlying ETR is expected to remain in the range of c.20‑25% going forward.
Underlying diluted earnings per share (AER)
Reflecting the challenging performance as explained above, our underlying PBT at AER
is down 29.8% to £6.5m (FY23: £9.3m). This, coupled with the increase in our underlying
effective tax rate, has resulted in a reduction in underlying diluted earnings per share (EPS)
of 68.4% to 1.62p at AER (FY23: 5.13p).
Return on capital employed (at AER)
The Group ROCE increased 30bps to 5.7% (FY23: 5.4%) reflects a reduced net assets basis
combined with reduced debt. Average profit was in line with last year.
As at 31 March 2024, the Group’s shareholders’ equity decreased to £124.2m (FY23:
£135.9m). The £(11.7)m reduction reflects a decrease in retained earnings of £(4.6)m, a
movement on own shares held in reserve of £0.8m, and a foreign exchange reserve loss
of£(4.2)m.
At 31 March 2024, the number of ordinary shares held by the Employee Benefit Trust (EBT)
to honour future equity award commitments was 1,373,663 shares (FY23: 1,896,098 shares).
Shares in issue as at 31 March 2024 was 136,114,675 (excluding EBT: 134,741,012).
1. Adjusted net debt is stated excluding the impact of IFRS 16 Leases. Including right‑of‑use lease liabilities,
net debt increases by £(18.4)m to £(39.4)m (FY23: net debt increases by £(15.8)m to £(53.8)m)
34
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Financial review continued
35
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Financial review continued
Outlook
Whilst the macroeconomic environment continues to present short‑term challenges, current
trading remains in line with management expectations. We continue to have a strong
focus on cash generation to reduce net debt and working capital and are driving EBIT
improvement through margin management, focused growth, organisational effectiveness
and operational efficiency.
Operationally, we have been setting ourselves up for growth when the market recovers by
rightsizing the business through a restructuring programme, the completion of the Atlas
Project and the consolidation of the NDC.
We are ensuring our focus remains on core business with the disposal of the TR Norway
business in April 2024 and the establishment of a China JV to support our strategy for
manufacturing and distribution in China.
We believe there is significant scope for improvement in the mid‑term and are confident
wewill be more profitable, effective and efficient in FY25.
The macroeconomic and geopolitical environment remains volatile, and we continue to
be challenged by inflationary pressures. We are confident we have the right strategy
to capture margin upside and deliver sustained growth. We believe there is significant
opportunity to return performance to historic levels.
Trifast has made strong progress in managing working capital to reduce its net debt
through working capital initiatives and remains focused on driving profit initiatives to
improve our margins.
Kate Ferguson
Interim Chief Financial Officer
We aim to comply with the non‑financial reporting requirements contained in Sections 414CA and 414CB of the Companies Act 2006. The table below, and the information it refers
to, is intended to help stakeholders understand our position on key non‑financial matters. This builds on existing reporting that we already do under the Guidance on the Strategic
Report (UK Financial Reporting Council).
Environmental matters • Environmental Policy
• Climate‑related Financial Disclosures
Page 53
Pages 55 to 65
Employees • Code of Business Conduct
• Business Ethics and Responsible Behaviour Policy
• Harassment Policy
• Whistleblowing Policy
• Health and Safety at Work Policy
• Privacy Notice
• Freedom of Association and Collective Bargaining Policy
• Equal Opportunities Policy
Page 53
Social matters • Supporting charities
• Charitable and Political Donations Policy
Pages 53 and 149
Respect for human rights • Slavery & Human Trafficking Statement
• Supplier Code of Conduct
• Working Conditions and Human Rights Policy
Pages 53 and 54
Anti‑corruption and anti‑bribery matters • Anti‑Bribery Statement and Policy
• Fair Competition and Anti‑Trust Policy
• Whistleblowing Policy
• Trade Compliance and Sanctions Policy
Pages 53 and 54
Policy embedding, due diligence and outcomes Page 53
Description of principal risks and impact of business activities Pages 67 to 75
Description of business model Pages 18 and 19
Non‑financial key performance indicators Page 21
Policy/codeNon-financial reportingmatter This report
36
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Non-financial and sustainability
information statement
What’s in this section?
Our people
pages 39 to 46
Our planet
pages 47 to 52
Our principles
pages 53 and 54
37
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Being a responsible business
Ratings and achievements
We have continued to respond to requests
from customers and investors on our carbon
emissions and management approach over
the year. We have completed CDP (supplier
and investor) and EcoVadis submissions
during FY24 and will continue to do so
annually.
EcoVadis
EcoVadis is a globally recognised
assessment platform that rates businesses’
sustainability based on four key categories:
environmental impact, labour and human
rights standards, ethics and procurement
practices.
We were awarded a bronze award by
EcoVadis in recognition of our sustainability
achievement during FY24. The overall
score was 55/100, meaning we are in the
62nd percentile of all companies rated by
EcoVadis, meaning Trifast is still above
industry level. We have set our targets
through our ‘Road to Gold’ initiative.
CDP
CDP is a not‑for‑profit charity that runs
the global disclosure system for investors,
companies, cities, states and regions to
manage their environmental impacts.
During FY24 we were pleased to retain
our CDP climate change score of C. We
continue to proactively complete our CDP
questionnaires for both investors and as
part of the supply chain for our customers.
JOSCAR
JOSCAR is a collaborative tool used by
the aerospace, defence and security
industry to act as a single repository
for pre‑qualification and compliance
information. Using JOSCAR can determine
ifa supplier is ‘fit for business’.
Our customers in these industries are signed
up to the tool and able to view the ESG
scoring given to us by JOSCAR
1
.
Environment + Social + Governance
86.18 |
Top 10%
131/152 Positive responses
20 6040 80
1. Joscar relates to TR UK only
People
Our people are the backbone of Trifast and will
continue to be central in our approach as we
Recover, Rebuild and establish Resilience
Planet
We are committed to reduce our impact on
theenvironment and look for innovative ways
toachieve this
Principles
Governance continues to be at the forefront of
everything the Company does, and the Board
recognises the continuing focus given to all
aspects of governance from our stakeholders
38
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Being a responsible business continued
Introduction
As a global employer operating in 16
countries, Trifast recognises the important
role and contribution our people make
to the overall success of our business.
The global team of c.1,200 colleagues are
supported by a further c.50 contractors,
who collectively have continued to deliver
excellent service to our customers through
a year of turbulence as we entered the
recovery stage of our business plan.
From our leadership through to the wider
organisation, many of our colleagues have
seen changes during this year. Some of the
key changes include the appointment of a
new Chair and CEO, allowing us to refresh
our focus on the strategic direction and
priorities for Trifast. We have also seen a
change of CFO and reconfiguring of the
Executive Leadership Team to reflect the
strategic direction. Even with all the internal
changes, throughout the year we have
continued to ensure that our professional
disciplines, standards and customer service
levels have been maintained, a testament
to the local teams who continue to put
high‑quality service at the forefront of their
thinking.
As part of being a responsible business, it
is important that our culture reflects strong
values that underpin our ways of working,
giving due consideration to our global
footprint, our local colleagues and the
communities where we operate.
Over the year, we have launched a
refreshed set of values, which will be further
embedded through training and ownership
to ensure that we interact with each other,
and our wider stakeholders, in a courteous
and professional manner at all times.
We continue to focus on the skills,
knowledge and competencies needed to
meet the current and future business needs.
With our attraction and retention approach,
we are investing in the talent needed to
achieve success going forward. This proved
effective as we mobilised the National
Distribution Centre (NDC), appointing a
highly skilled and engaged team who will
help us go from strength to strength.
Restructuring
NDC
With the opening of the NDC in Walsall,
UK, we created job opportunities within
the local community but we also saw a
number of our colleagues make the move
with the business retaining knowledge and
experience through this changeover. The
impact of opening the NDC did mean the
closure of our UK manufacturing facility and
several of our warehousing facilities which
regrettably led to job losses.
Coupled with this change was the need
to align our cost base to better reflect
the position of the business. It is always
regrettable to lose colleagues who have
given so much to the growth story of Trifast
and we would take this opportunity to thank
those that left us for their hard work and
contribution to the business and to wish
them every success in the future.
CEO appointment
Iain Percival joined as CEO in September
2023 and undertook to engage and
participate in the business to fully
understand and appreciate the challenges
faced at a local level.
As part of his induction, Iain worked shifts
at the newly opened NDC donning his
bootsand hi‑vis jacket, moving products
and completing customer orders. This
provided him with a great insight into the
daily challenges of the new distribution
centre, while also giving him the opportunity
to engage with the team who were
fundamental in us achieving a successful
opening. Iain valued the insights this gave
him into the work of our colleagues in the
warehouse environment and it will helpguide
how we engage and communicate with them
going forward.
Regional approach, with central
support
Towards the end of the year, we
commenced the restructuring of our
broader business moving to a regional
structure covering the UK & Ireland, Europe,
Asia and North America.
We are delighted to have in place the
leaders who will ensure the delivery of
the regional objectives, aligned with the
Recover, Rebuild, Resilience business
strategy. In addition to the regions, we
also established the key central enabling
functions that will enable the successful
workings across the regional infrastructure
and ensure professional accountability
throughout the organisation. The central
enabling functions include Finance,
Commercial, HR, Technology, Company
Secretariat and Environment, Health &
Safety. Most of this group makes up the
Executive Leadership Team (ELT), read
more on page 84.
Clarity of direction
We have taken many steps to not only
confirm and validate the strategy for the
future of Trifast, but also to engage the
workforce. Communicating the strategy,
the next phase of our journey and how we
want to work together to be successful has
resonated with our employees who have
welcomed the clarity and engagement.
The communication clearly sets out the
strategic imperatives, the refreshed values
and the link to the personal objectives,
giving clear line of sight to the overall
business objectives. Setting SMART
objectives throughout the leadership and
management communities will allow us to
measure and drive key milestones in our
transformation.
Our people
Our people are the backbone of Trifast and
willcontinue to be central in our approach
as weRecover, Rebuild and establish Resilience
39
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Being a responsible business continued
Refreshed values
With the launch of the new values, we wish
not only to deliver our strategic objectives
financially, but also operate our business in
a manner that builds resilience and strong
foundations for the future.
For this reason, the values will underpin how
we operate, ensure that we strive to be a
business that not only achieves success, but
does so in the right way.
As we move forward, values will be
reinforced, trained and embedded
across our organisation, defining for
our employees, not only how we wish to
work with our customers, suppliers and
communities, but also how we wish to
work with each other and build a healthy,
engaging working environment that makes
TR a great place to work.
People strategy
As part of our rebuild programme we will
review and align our global people plan to
the strategic imperatives and objectives for
the coming years.
This review will include due consideration
being given to the One TR approach,
culture, global presence and the skills and
competencies we will need to meet our
current and future business needs. The
people plan will review and address all the
touch points from hire to retire to ensure
that we have the right systems, processes,
engagement tools, development and
support in place. Our aim is to enable our
colleagues to be the best they can be in
their current roles, but also achieve their full
potential.
Our people plan will see a stronger, focused
and engaged workforce with skills to
achieve the future TR resilience stage of our
journey.
Employee engagement
We ran our employee engagement survey
using the ‘Happiness Index’. The survey
focused on activities and areas that will
make a real difference to the working lives
of our employees.
The results of the FY24 survey gave an
average score of 6.7/10 (FY23: 7.4).
Although the score reduced, it was
expected given the restructuring that
primarily impacted the UK, where we have
the largest workforce.
Accepting we need to continue our efforts
to engage, motivate and support our
colleagues, each location and department
head received the breakdown of the results
for their team, with suggested actions to
improve any low scores. Throughout the
year, local action plans and progress will be
tracked to ensure that we actively listen and
engage with our people at all levels.
With the appointment of Laura Whyte, we
will have an enhanced Board Employee
Champion Programme. Given Laura’s
extensive experience in the people function,
she will lead the Board Employee Champion
approach with a structured programme of
engagement across our employee base as
we go into next year.
Laura will be supported by other Board
members and the ELT, ensuring regular
visits to sites with open sessions for our
employees to voice any concerns, raise
questions or bring to the Board’s attention
things that would be of interest.
Our ‘Employee Voice’ programme provides
all employees with the opportunity to
contact us 24/7, 365 days per year,
should they have concerns that are of a
whistleblowing nature. This programme
is anonymous but has the option of a
feedback loop for employees who require a
specific response or would otherwise be a
witness to any wrongdoing. The Employee
Voice system is regularly monitored so that
we can act swiftly and appropriately to any
concerns raised.
It should be noted there have been
no controversies with regard to
anti‑competition, business ethics, bribery
and corruption, tax fraud, responsible
marketing, privacy or wages and working
conditions during the financial year.
Our people continued
40
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Being a responsible business continued
Our people continued
Ethical business practices
At Trifast we are aware of the economic
and community impact we have across our
global footprint.
In many of our locations, we have a direct
positive impact by providing secure
employment and, in some locations, we are
one of the largest local employers. We also
seek to work with local suppliers, further
supporting the local economy and the
communities.
Many of our employees and our sites engage
in charitable initiatives and local events,
seeking to create a positive impact on our
teams and our communities. This year we
have started a volunteering programme
for our employees to take paid time off to
engage in worthy causes within their local
areas as we truly see the benefits this brings
to all those impacted by the programme.
We hope that this will have positive uptake
across all our sites and teams, meaning
good causes will benefit.
Employee offering
We seek to offer our employees competitive
benefits and reasonable rates of
remuneration which we monitor to ensure
local legal compliance and alignment with
market practices.
Fair pay
To continue to attract and retain
high‑calibre individuals and continue our
efforts to become an employer of choice
within our sector, we offer a competitive
reward package that balances fairness to
our colleagues as well as responsible use of
shareholders’ funds. Our pay principles are
as follows:
• Support the recruitment and retention
ofhigh‑quality colleagues
• Enable us to recognise and reward
colleagues appropriately for their
contribution
• Help to ensure that decisions on pay are
managed in a fair, just and transparent
way
• Create a direct alignment between our
Company culture and our reward strategy
Through the application of these principles,
we have been able to attract industry
specialists with global experience at senior
levels, as well as staff at the NDC with the
appropriate skills to ensure we operate
effectively.
The Remuneration Committee reviews the
remuneration structure for management
level tiers below the Executive Directors
and pay outcomes for these roles. The
Committee also has oversight of the
wider workforce pay and terms to ensure
consistency and fairness of approach,
locally and globally.
Benefits
Trifast offers a comprehensive suite of
benefits to employees across all regions,
tailored to the requirements of each
country.
We keep our employee benefits under
review to ensure that our offering is
appropriate and relevant.
Staff sickness
We continue to monitor and manage
sickness as it is often an indicator of
engagement and areas for improvement.
During the year, number of days lost due to
employee sickness was 1.5% of total days
worked across TR Fastenings UK and Trifast
plc. This remains above average for the
sector.
See our TRUK gender pay gap
report on our website at
www.trfastenings.com
41
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Being a responsible business continued
Staff turnover
With the exception of those leaving by
virtue of redundancy, we have maintained a
market average for turnover in many of our
countries.
For those leaving, we have an off‑boarding
system which allows us to capture critical
information which we can use to address
areas of improvement. The off‑boarding
module enables interaction in a confidential
and secure manner that ensures we
capture exit interviews which are often
far more open and insightful than simple
engagement tools.
Even with our turnover and the
restructuring, our average length of
service remains high at 10.6 years. The
dedication and commitment of many of our
long‑serving employees is something we
are proud of and they will continue to help
engage and support new colleagues, not
only to understand the world of fasteners,
but also how things work in Trifast. We
are proud of our history and our teams
and want to take the next stage of our
journey as a collective group engaged and
empowered to deliver on our strategic
objectives.
Talent development and succession
planning
Talent management is one of the key
drivers of our success, and our learning
and development programme is crucial to
upskilling our people, retaining talent, and
attracting new candidates in an increasingly
competitive marketplace.
We are totally committed to the
development of all our employees across
the globe, offering them formal and informal
learning, as well as the opportunity to gain
industry‑recognised qualifications.
Our talent management and succession
planning is focused on senior and
business‑critical roles, and is the subject of
review in light of the organisational changes
recently undertaken. The initial priority
is the identification of immediate internal
successors for those critical positions,
whilst also seeking to ensure that we have
an adequate pipeline of talent that will fulfil
future needs.
With the strategic priorities identified, it
has been necessary to bring in additional
support and expertise in certain key
areas. We have chosen to appoint
consultants who will upskill and impart
knowledge to our internal teams, with the
intent of strengthening the talent pool
and competency base across the wider
organisation.
It has also been necessary to appoint
interim resource with specific skills in
transformation to profile, plan and establish
the necessary project cadence, Key
Strategic Indicator’s (KSI’s) and trackers to
ensure we deliver on our commitments.
The interim resource will focus on clearly
stated targets related to the transformation
programme and will not be part of the
permanent headcount going forward unless
appointed to a budgeted position.
Our people continued
Those employees in the not specified category all started and left during the year.
Lost days to total days worked 1.5% (FY23: 1.6%).
Female | 19%
Male | 77%
Not specified | 4%
New starters
Female | 18%
Male | 78%
Not specified | 4%
Leavers
Staff changes
42
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Being a responsible business continued
Our people continued
Learning and development
We continue to have a very strong learning
and development culture, supported
by online tools and programmes that
provide content and learning for all. With
a well‑developed commitment to learning,
we have identified skills gaps and created
personal learning plans for our employees
which will be delivered over the coming
year. The year ahead will major on ‘Safety
First’, a campaign to ensure safety is truly
embedded in our culture.
Our internal online Learning Management
System (LMS) has provided us with the
chance to roll out relevant training to all our
employees in their own chosen language,
including corporate mandatory training.
This will be a vital tool to support some of
the training required to deliver a ‘Safety
First’ culture change.
This system offers an individualised learning
plan that is tailored to an employee’s
role but can also be used to deliver
Company‑wide training material to all
employees.
The sophistication of the system and its use
of artificial intelligence (AI) to aggregate
personalised content, it allows employees
to identify which skills they might need to
develop to enhance theircareer.
Within this system there is also a social
learning platform which fosters an informal
approach, encouraging a collaborative
workspace where subject matter experts can
answer questions, share best practice and
exchange ideas across our global network.
Our approach is further supported with the
learning and development needs identified
during the objective setting process used
to help define other key management and
leadership development needs that we need
to consider.
Performance reviews
With the launch of a refreshed performance
objective process, leaders and managers
have a framework that sets out SMART
objectives, aligned to the strategy and
transformation of Trifast. Leaders and
managers contributed to objective setting
and assessed their skills and readiness to
take on the tasks needed this coming year.
The performance goals that were agreed will
be reviewed and will allow for constructive
and engaging conversation on achievements
and areas where development would help
colleagues be the best they can be.
STEM careers
Having undertaken STEM outreach in
the past, we are again reviewing how we
can truly widen our engagement with
local schools, colleges and universities to
enhance participation in the STEM subjects.
Although partnerships provide
opportunities to educate young people
through talks and interactive presentations
about what it is like to be part of a global
engineering and manufacturing business,
it is not increasing the number of students
pursuing careers in these fields.
We would seek to explore if there is a more
integrated and sustainable programme
we can foster with some of the key local
schools and educational faculties to improve
participation and grow the talent for
thefuture.
While we explore options, our university
efforts to support students with placements
will continue as this is a critical element of
their education and one where Trifast can
truly add support to increasing the number
of students successfully entering a career in
the STEM areas.
Early career support, student
opportunities and apprenticeships
Although it was not possible to extend
our placement programme this year due
to the closures and restructuring of the
business, we remain committed to providing
opportunities to the next generation and
will refresh our approach in readiness for the
next batch of placement students.
With the economic challenges in many of
our operating countries, there is an increase
in students not progressing to universities
but looking for alternative options such as
apprenticeships. We will give consideration
as to how we can support this method of
entry into the workforce going forward.
We remain dedicated to providing
opportunities for young people to
understand how a global organisation
operates, how they might enter the
workforce and see a career path. With the
support of apprenticeship programmes, we
see this as a vital route to building our talent
line going forward.
43
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Being a responsible business continued
Diversity, equity and inclusion
As a leadership team supporting a global
business, all of the ELT are committed to
treating everyone fairly and recognise the
strengths that a diverse workforce can bring
to the future growth of the business.
We make every effort to eliminate
discrimination, create equal opportunities
and develop good working relationships
between our teams. Our people represent
a mix of cultures spanning 27 locations in
16 countries and this provides us with many
opportunities to understand and value those
cultures.
As part of the people programme, we will
update our diversity, equity and inclusion
strategy, giving greater emphasis on
bringing about positive engagement and
participation from all over our diverse
workforce.
We know that by engaging our employees
and allowing them to bring their ‘whole
self’ to work we will increase employee
satisfaction and engagement, overall
creativity and a sense of belonging.
We continue to take targeted action, across
our locations in all countries, to ensure that
all legislative requirements are met and
that as a business we go beyond our legal
obligations to further build an environment
that is totally inclusive.
The engineering sector faces a considerable
challenge on diversity, especially in relation
to attracting women into technical roles.
Through our work on STEM initiatives,
we would seek to encourage change in
the profession and amongst the female
population.
Age
We employ a diverse workforce, from
school leavers through to over 65s. We have
age data for all staff except those in Asia;
this data will be gathered as part of the
implementation of the new HR system, a
breakdown is set out below.
Mental health
With the ever‑increasing mental health
and wellbeing challenges faced by
individuals, we are taking steps to ensure
that we educate and support our leaders
and managers to identify problems,
propose interventions and take proactive
steps to help and support those facing
emotional challenge. We are open in our
communication on mental health, believing
this will allow employees to be open in
return. We will continue to review proactive
steps we can take to support our people
should they face mental health or emotional
difficulties.
Conclusion
Trifast had a turbulent year with all the
changes, not only to leadership, but also
within operations with the opening of the
NDC. It must be acknowledged that our
teams continued to service our customers
both externally and internally to a high
standard and remained professional at
all times. Our people are the backbone
ofTrifast and will continue to be central
toour approach as we enter the next phase
ofturnaround.
Our people continued
Gender diversity as at 31 March 2024
Female | 43%
Male | 57%
Female | 22%
Male | 78%
Female | 24%
Male | 76%
Female | 33%
Male | 67%
Board
Executive
Leadership
Team
Entity
Directors &
Senior
Managers
All
<25 | 6%
25–34 | 22%
25–44 | 26%
45–54 | 28%
55–64 | 16%
65+ | 2%
Age
44
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Being a responsible business continued
A safe and healthy working
environment
As part of Recover, Rebuild, Resilience, we
will increase the focus on protecting our
team and environment, and build upon the
existing platform. We are incorporating
One TR into health and safety by providing
a robust global framework that sets clear
standards for all of our operations. We want
to provide a safe working environment by
engaging our team to help determine these
standards and harness the best practice
across our operations.
We are proud of the efforts our team take in
reducing and managing risk and achieving
low incident rates.
We will build on this by increasing the
proactive reporting for safety recognition
where our team takes action to keep
one another safe, and also increase the
reporting of observations where we need
to take action to remove hazards from our
operations.
We are in a fortunate position of being able
to harness the ability within our global team
and are excited about what we can achieve
together.
Health, safety and wellbeing
Supporting the health, safety and wellbeing
of our team continues to be a core priority
for our business. Over the last year, the
tone from the top has changed following
the appointment of the new CEO, who is
personally championing our commitment
to strengthening our approach to health,
safety and wellbeing. This involves a greater
focus on improving our standards, mindset
and conditions regarding health and safety
across all Trifast operations.
In line with One TR we are developing a
global approach to improving health and
safety standards and driving consistency
across our business operations. This
includes developing accountability across all
sites and regions, defining clear objectives
and targets for safety, and promoting the
ownership for safety within the leadership
and management structure.
Our people continued
Supporting our team’s health, safety and wellbeing
is an essential part of how we operate within Trifast,
and we see our people as our most important
Company strength
45
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Being a responsible business continued
Safety transformation roadmap
Workplace conditions
& behaviour –
implementing best practice for workplace
conditions and establishing behaviours to
positively influence our safety culture
Team
engagement –
strengthening our
employee participation
and engagement through
stronger communication,
training and participation
Metrics &
measurement –
to increase learning and
action from our lagging
and leading indicators
Standards &
framework –
defining our global
expectations through
harnessing best practice
from our team
Leadership –
with a focus on building
greater ownership and
accountability for safety
Health and safety
In March 2024, a new role, Global
Environment, Health & Safety Director,
was created to provide additional
direction and momentum and
support the Company’s commitment
to protecting our team and the
environment. David O’Brien, Global EHS
Director, is conducting a root‑and‑branch
assessment across our global footprint to
review the current strategy. In updating
our strategic approach, we aim to deliver
One TR, reduce risk in our operations
and develop a proactive culture utilising
our global ability and experience of the
fastener manufacturing and distribution
industry.
Along with this, we are defining our
leading safety indicators and, in line
with the new regional structure, building
a greater culture of accountability for
safety at a site level. This will commence
with leadership safety training for all our
senior level team.
We expect to see an increase in our
incident metrics as we tighten and focus
the reporting criteria, and we view this
as an important opportunity to learn and
develop stronger risk control measures
across our operations.
We will increase the capturing of leading
indicator measures, and plan to introduce a
safety observation reporting process across
all levels and locations within our business.
Our integrated approach to environment,
health and safety will be designed to
support a lean and efficient operational
model. We will eliminate risk where
possible, focusing on both the high‑risk and
high‑frequency hazards within our business.
To support One TR, we are defining the
global standards we expect all locations to
work to, for the following risk areas:
• Reducing our machinery risks through
improved guarding and protective
devices
• Eliminating or reducing working at height
hazards by automating or mechanising
our activities
• Increasing the separation and
segregation of pedestrians and vehicles
To help support the integration and fast
track improvements, additional resource will
be provided where required. Additional EHS
resource has been added for our Malaysia
manufacturing site to support shop floor
risk reduction activities. Our Safety Reps
programme is also in place to provide
additional support for our site teams.
Our people continued
Lost time caused by work related illness/
injury:
FY24 safety statistics
The recorded data for FY24 covers all
sites. All data is for both employees and
contractors unless otherwise stated:
Zero
fatalities
Two
recordable incidents (USA)
Three
lost time
• one knife safety (Kentucky, USA)
• onefall from height (Houston, USA)
• one manual handling (Colchester,UK)
17
minor incidents resulting in first aid
treatment. Cuts and abrasions continue
to be the main causal area forthe minor
injuries
12
near misses reported
Four
non‑injury RTAs
No injuries were long term and all
employees have returned to work
Zero
days lost (Contractors)
15
days lost (Employees)
Lost time incident rate
for employees only:
0.27
(calculation is number of accidents
leading to absence multiplied by
200,000 divided by number of
hoursworked)
2,228,911
total hours worked
297,18 8
total days worked
We have a target to remain below one for
our lost time injury rate and are pleased
to report that both of these have been
achieved.
46
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Being a responsible business continued
ISO 14001
Waste and water continue to be managed
through the ISO 14001 certification and
there is a commitment to reach global
coverage by FY26. In the last 12 months,
progress has continued for certification
audits with our teams in Newton Aycliffe
(UK), TR Hungary and Central Services.
Waste
To reduce waste generation, we supply
fastenings to many of our customers in
reusable plastic totes.
Most of our products are still delivered
to our sites in plastic and cardboard
packaging. Utilising our established
effective relationships with our suppliers,
we aim to work together to reduce inbound
packaging, as well as increasing the quantity
of recycled material in our packaging.
Waste is managed locally at each of our
global operations. The Responsible Business
Steering Committee recently worked with
our Marketing department to produce an
internal video to promote the importance
of recycling. The aim of the video was to
increase awareness to further encourage
local recycling initiatives to be implemented
throughout our operations.
Water usage
We monitor our water use, sources and
discharge routes, collating and evaluating
the data to allow us to set a meaningful
water strategy. Water consumption across
the Group has shown an overall reduction of
12% when compared to the previous year.
In consolidating our footprint, we expect
our water consumption to further reduce,
due to locations being modernised and
consolidated. We recognise this may take
some time to normalise due to the business
transformation efficiencies being achieved.
During FY24 we have had zero
environmental controversies and have also
had no direct or accidental oil spillages.
Pollution prevention
There are some minor emissions to water
related to the manufacturing processes
at our sites, and we do store and use
materials that could have an impact on the
environment if they were to be accidentally
released. We have good controls in
place to ensure we comply with all
obligations in relation to water quality and
pollutionprevention.
These include appropriate training,
risk assessment and management
processes, monitoring and emergency
responseprocedures.
Our planet
Water consumption across the Group has shown
an overall reduction of 12% when compared to
theprevious year
Surface water abstraction | 6.3%
Ground water abstraction | 5.8%
Mains supply | 87.9%
Discharge into municipal sewer
– trade effluent | 47.7%
Discharge into municipal sewer
– domestic | 46.2%
Discharge into surface waters | 6.1%
Total water
consumption
FY24
22,195.28m
3
(FY23:
25,257.72m
3
)
Total water
discharge
FY24
22,345.91m
3
(FY23:
23,774.26m
3
)
47
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Being a responsible business continued
Pollution prevention continued
We manage environmental progress through our ISO 14001 certified environmental
management system, seeking to reduce the direct impacts from our own operations as well
as our products life cycle. As part of our continuous improvement journey, we will analyse
and refine our environmental data capture to ensure environmental risks are understood
and improvement activities continue to be identified. We are pleased to report that there
havebeen no environmental incidents during FY24.
Energy
Manufacturing is our most sizeable area of energy use, representing around 73% of our
global consumption. Our total energy use in FY24 was 18,769,707 kWh, electricity makes
up just over half of this, with the remainder being natural gas, gas, oil, LPG used for space
heating and transport fuel.
ESOS
The Company is required to comply with the Energy Savings Opportunities Scheme (ESOS);
assessments were completed last year by third parties at our business premises. We worked
through the report recommendations to best align them with our sustainability roadmap.
During FY25 it is our intention to implement energy self‑assessments globally, to capture
opportunities currently not recognised through the ESOS energy audits.
We measure the energy/emissions intensity of our operations using three key metrics:
FTE
(tonnes CO
2
e/FTE hours)
Revenue
(tonnes CO
2
e/£1k)
Floorspace
(tonnes CO
2
e/m
2
)
FY24 121,504.86 0.55 1.46
FY23 150,556.27 0.65 1.96
Note: Our emissions data includes all material emissions of the six Kyoto gases from direct sources and from
purchased electricity, heat and steam and cooling where applicable. No direct source material emissions have
been omitted. The FY23 data has been restated to now include Scope 3 emissions for purchased goods and
services as well as recalculations for previous omissions from the FY23.
Figures are reported in tonnes of CO
2
e (carbon dioxide equivalent). Reports are calculated in the following ways:
• Tonnes of CO
2
e per hours worked as FTE (Full Time Equivalent)
• Tonnes of CO
2
e per £1k of revenue
• Tonnes of CO
2
e per m
2
(square metres of floor space occupied by the Company)
Our main source of emission factors is BEIS (2023), with other data selected to fill gaps or because it is deemed to be
more accurate. IEA (2023) data is used for calculating emissions of non‑UK, location‑based electricity, while BEIS (2023)
is used for calculating emissions of UK, location‑based electricity.
Monitoring our GHG emissions
We have provided below our GHG emissions as required under the Companies Act
2006 (Strategic Report & Directors’ Report) Regulations 2013, and have reported the
requirements of the Streamlined Energy & Carbon Reporting (SECR) framework.
For FY24 we have continued to utilise the Carbon Trust ‘Footprint Manager’ software,
allowing us to accurately gather and report on our Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions, Scope 3
business travel and also monitor our water usage.
In addition, and with our increased Scope 3 reporting, we have improved our emissions
monitoring and are working to establish corporate level monitoring for our greenhouse gas
emissions.
Carbon emissions
Manufacturing Distribution Total
128,195 tonnes CO
2
e
Trifast plc tonnes CO
2
e
(FY23: 158,846 tonnes CO
2
e)
18,769,707 kWh
Trifast plc kWh
(FY23: 19,643,056 kWh)
Asia manufacturing 2,689 tonnes CO
2
e
(FY23: 2,731 tonnes CO
2
e)
UK & Ireland distribution 36,491 tonnes CO
2
e
(FY23: 23,587 tonnes CO
2
e)
5,612,079 kWh
(FY23: 5,821,944 kWh)
3,031,851 kWh
(FY23: 3,843,574 kWh)
Europe manufacturing 1,774 tonnes CO
2
e
(FY23: 1,677 tonnes CO
2
e)
Asia distribution 6,223 tonnes CO
2
e
(FY23: 9,634 tonnes CO
2
e)
7,914,164 kWh
(FY23: 7,772,455 kWh)
225,792 kWh
(FY23: 196,713 kWh)
UK & Ireland manufacturing 18 tonnes CO
2
e
(FY23: 51 tonnes CO
2
e)
Europe distribution 57,633 tonnes CO
2
e
(FY23: 88,841 tonnes CO
2
e)
86,845 kWh
(FY23: 266,642 kWh)
1,461,783 kWh
(FY23: 1,354,266 kWh)
USA distribution 23,367 tonnes CO
2
e
(FY23: 32,325 tonnes CO
2
e)
437,193 kWh
(FY23: 387,462 kWh)
Our planet continued
48
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Being a responsible business continued
Our planet continued
Carbon emissions continued
For FY24 we have increased our Scope 3 emissions reporting to now include purchased
goods and services, employee commuting emissions and also emissions data for our joint
venture in Asia, apportioned for our ownership percentage. Read more about our joint
venture on page 23.
The FY23 data has been restated to now include Scope 3 emissions for purchased goods
and services as well as recalculations for previous omissions from the FY23 reporting which
were highlighted whilst revalidating data as part of our continuous improvement journey.
Our total carbon emissions have decreased from 158,846 tonnes CO
2
e in FY23, to 128,195
tonnes CO
2
e in FY24.
FY24 FY23
Total Scope 1 emissions 1,578.39
1,723.20
Purchased fuels
1,053.96
1,127. 39
Company vehicle use
524.43
595.81
Fugitive emissions
0.00
0.00
Total Scope 2 emissions 3,985.86
3,963.08
Purchased electricity
3,985.86
3,963.08
Total Scope 3 emissions 122,630.60
153,159.66
Purchased goods and services
121,513.04
152,835.05
Business travel
446.75
324.61
– Air
269.02
314.90
– Road
177.41
9.23
– Rail
0.32
0.48
Employee commuting
662.00
—
Investment – Joint Venture (40%)
8.81
—
Total emissions 128,194.85
158,845.94
Increased Scope 3 emissions reporting for FY24
Purchased goods and services
In line with our sustainability strategy commitments, we have, for the first time this year,
reported on Scope 3 emissions related to purchased goods and services, utilising the
Greenhouse Gas Protocol spend‑based analysis methodology.
By region
FY24
Tonnes of CO
2
e
FY23
Tonnes of CO
2
e
Asia
5,939
9,555
Europe
57,186
88,627
UK & Ireland
35,314
22,495
USA
23,074
32,158
Total 121,513
152,835
Employee commuting
We have also conducted an employee commuting survey to gather carbon emissions data
on employees’ journeys to and from work, two years ahead of our FY26 commitment.
By region Tonnes of CO
2
e
Average CO
2
e
per employee
Asia 228 0.5
Europe 189 0.7
UK & Ireland 158 0.3
USA 87 1.5
Total 662 0.5
Method of
commute
Car
62.7%
Motorcycle
15.8%
Work from Home
8.7%
Bicycle
3.9%
Bus
3.2%
Walking
3.1%
Subway
1.4%
Train
1.0%
Taxi
0.2%
49
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Being a responsible business continued
Net zero ambition
We set our first reduction target during
FY23, which took into account the Science
Based Targets initiative. This aimed to
reduce our Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions
by 67.2% by 2035 (with a rolling target of
4.2% reduction p.a.) using a baseline of 2019
with a footprint of 8,160 tonnes CO
2
e, with
our end target for FY35 being 2,676 tonnes
CO
2
e. Our target for FY24 was 6,446 tonnes
CO
2
e, which we more than achieved with our
result of 5,564 tonnes of CO
2
e for the year.
The reporting boundary of this metric
includes the Scope 1 and 2 emissions of
all active companies within the Trifast plc
Group.
Once we have more comparable figures
from the increased Scope 3 emissions
reporting, it will enable us to begin to
develop Scope 3 reduction targets and we
will submit our letter of intent.
Our definition of net zero is where GHGs
from human activity are in balance with
emission reductions. Although those
emissions are still generated, an equal
amount is removed from the atmosphere.
Meeting these targets will be achieved by
energy and carbon reduction within our own
operations, indirect emissions from travel
and logistics and our supply chain.
With support from RSM UK, we are
developing a time‑bound GHG emission
reduction transition plan to commence
an Eliminate, Reduce, Protect plan for net
zero. Whilst initiatives such as switching
to renewable energy and installing solar
panels on our buildings continue, the plan
also allows us opportunities to explore
alternative low‑carbon emission solutions to
enable significant emission reductions for
long‑term sustainability.
During FY25 we will work towards allocating
a dedicated budget to support our emission
reduction targets.
Our planet continued
FY19 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24
Target Actual Target Actual Target Actual Target Actual Target Actual
Target Actual
Scope 1 1,732 1,732 1,659 1,891 1,587 1,761 1,514 1,964 1,441 1,723
1,368 1,578
% (reduction) from 2019 baseline 9.18% 1.67% 13.39% (0.52)%
(8.89)%
Scope 2 6,428 6,428 6,158 5,774 5,888 4,499 5,618 3,943 5,348 3,963
5,078 3,986
% (reduction) from 2019 baseline (10.17)% (30.01)% (38.66)% (38.35)%
(37.99)%
Overall Scope 1 and 2
8,160 8,160 7,817 7,665 7,475 6,260 7,132 5,907 6,789 5,686
6,446 5,564
% (reduction) from 2019 baseline
(6.07)% (23.28)% (27.61)% (30.32)%
(31.81)%
Future targets FY25 FY26 FY27 FY28 FY29 FY30 FY31 FY32 FY33 FY34 FY35
Scope 1 1,296 1,223 1,150 1,077 1,005 932 859 786 714 641 568
Scope 2 4,808 4,538 4,268 3,998 3,728 3,458 3,188 2,918 2,648 2,378 2,108
Scope 1 and 2
6,104 5,761 5,418 5,075 4,733 4,390 4,047 3,704 3,362 3,019 2,676
% (reduction) from 2019 baseline
25.20% 29.40% 33.60% 37.80% 42.00% 46.20% 50.40% 54.60% 58.80% 63.00% 67. 20%
50
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Being a responsible business continued
Supply chains
It is essential to Trifast that we understand
and remain transparent about the
operational aspects of our supply chain,
ensuring ethical practices remain at the
forefront of supply chain management to
embed cultural change within our industry.
All supply chains remain under pressure
through legislative changes and the new
operating environment including our
stakeholders.
The ethos ‘Think Global, Act Local’ has
long been in our DNA and already makes
a difference to the impact we have on the
environment. We will continue to focus our
efforts on near shoring our global supply
chains including our own manufacturing
facilities.
Our global supply chain has a wide range of
environmental and social impacts as well as
risks. Metal components rely on high‑impact
activities such as mining and smelting.
Suppliers and logistics partners are exposed
to increasing risks from climate change as
well as geopolitical pressures, which are
likely to affect the availability and cost of
labour and materials.
We require our Approved Vendor List
(AVL) suppliers to implement our Quality
& Sustainability Agreement and Slavery &
Human Trafficking Statement and provide
uswith declarations of compliance as part
of the assessment process.
To date, the Quality & Sustainability
Agreement has been completed by 268
TR‑approved suppliers (61% of spend) and
our Slavery & Human Trafficking Statement
has been signed by 613 TR‑approved
suppliers (82% of spend).
We are developing our sustainable supply
chain strategy which we aim to complete in
FY25. This will determine how we map our
supply chain and measure our onshoring
progress, therefore allowing us to identify
opportunities.
We set clear expectations on how
our suppliers should manage quality,
environmental, social and corporate
governance matters.
Our supplier quality team carry out desktop
reviews and on‑site audits with new and
existing suppliers. These assessments
include quality and sustainability practices,
business ethics and values. This forms the
basis for continued supplier development.
AVL suppliers are re‑audited every two
years by conducting supplier reviews and
site audits to ensure suppliers continue to
meet our expected standards.
In FY24, we had one major non‑compliance
due to an unauthorised change in material.
Following investigation, the action was
taken to put the supplier on new business
hold and to resource the part to an
alternative AVL supplier.
Paving the way for fair climate trade
The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism
(CBAM) is the world’s first carbon
emissions border tax created by the EU (EU
Regulation 2023/956, 10 May 2023) with
the aim of reducing carbon emissions and to
protect the EU’s climate ambition.
The primary focus of the legislation is
to apply equal treatment of domestic
and imported goods by applying a
carbon emissions levelling tax, equal to
the CO
2
costs of EU manufacturers, on
carbon‑intensive goods produced outside
of the EU.
The tariff code of a product defines whether
it is subject to CBAM measures. Trifast
identified which tariff codes impact our
business, and during FY24, we submitted
the first of the quarterly reports required by
the initial phase of the regulation, relating to
the quarter ended 31 December 2023.
TR are engaging with our supply chain
to ensure compliance with the EU CBAM
regulation. We are in the process of
gathering the carbon emission data from
our suppliers to ensure we can report the
actual CO
2
data in October 2024 as required
by the regulation.
Design for environment
Trifast engineers incorporate design for
environment principles into products,
offering exciting opportunities for
innovation. We are investing in product
development and working with our
automotive customers to meet or exceed
the proposed ELV (end‑of‑life vehicles)
Directive which will require all plastic
components in motor vehicles to contain a
minimum of 25% recycled content by 2030.
In many products the total life cycle
environmental impacts can be reduced by
specifying lower impact materials, such
as bioplastics and recycled materials, or
reducing the weight of materials used. This
can also deliver commercial advantages
simply by reducing compliance and material
costs, whilst lowering the environmental
footprint of products.
Innovation can add to the functionality of
fasteners, including the disassembly and
reuse of our customers’ products, enabling
a more sustainable and circular economy.
We must continue to explore how to employ
sustainable innovations to optimise material
and packaging use, while maximising reuse,
recovery and recycling.
Understanding the environmental impact
of our traded and own manufactured
parts plays a vital role in our ambition of
delivering new products and solutions with
enhanced sustainability performance.
Our planet continued
51
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Being a responsible business continued
Our planet continued
Materials and circular economy
Controlled materials
Trifast is subject to a range of legislation
related to controlled or hazardous materials.
Due to the nature of the materials we use
in some of our products and how they are
used by our customers, we ensure that
we manage our obligations effectively
and can provide our customers with the
necessary documentation. In developing
our sustainability strategy, we will explore
the impacts, risks and opportunities related
to material use and the circular economy
across our entire value chain.
Engagement of Trifast engineers in the
design process allows fully integrated
fastener solutions with the lowest
environmental impact. Our engineering
team works closely with both customers and
the supply chain to find a suitable balance
between performance, commercial and
environmental cost.
Design for recyclability
Engineers at Trifast consider the complete
product life cycle when supporting
customers in resolving their engineering
challenges. In addition to considering a
design to align function and assembly with
its sustainable manufacture, our engineering
team also encourages the customer to apply
design for recyclability. In general, fasteners
account for less than 2% of the complete
product weight. Value streams for recycling
are formulated around the materials with
the highest content, which are the most
valuable or are easiest to recover.
However, fasteners can play a major role
inthe efficiency of recovery of materials
byeither aiding removability or separation,
for example:
• Products manufactured of homogeneous
plastics can be ground to provide raw
material for the remanufacture of plastic
components. The use of steel fasteners
will allow these to be magnetically
separated from the ground material,
allowing both plastic and steel to be
recycled
• Using fasteners of similar materials as
themain structure integrates these
as part of the recycling value stream:
increased homogeneity of recovered
material with an increased efficiency
ofthe recyclingprocess
TR emphasises the need of early
fastener‑engineering involvement
to support the reduction of time to
market, whilst meeting their objectives
with sustainable product design.
Enablingmanufacture through cold
forminginstead of machining reduces the
amount of waste of material from 60%
to 5%, can improve material composition
sustainability, whilstin many cases
improving the overallperformance.
Life cycle analysis
We created a life cycle calculation
model based on a combination of actual
manufacturing output combined with
third‑party provided data. We use this
model for our own comparison of product
manufacturing and supply options.
There is currently no internationally
recognised standard to cover the full
LCA process, which limits accuracy on
benchmarking against our peers.
Sustainable packaging
The essential purpose of packaging
products is to protect them, ensuring parts
are delivered as contracted.
Our preferred packaging consists of neutral
boxes which have high levels of recycled
content and are recyclable. We design
packaging to:
• Maximise filling whilst meeting ergonomic
requirements
• Protect the products during transit and
storage
• Maximise pallet loading to achieve a high
transport density
Small quantities may still be packaged in
low‑density polyethylene (LDPE), which
is recyclable. The use of plastic with high
recycled content is highly focused on.
We have seen growth in the use of
single‑use plastic due to GreenTech
requirements of technical cleanliness, parts
must be packaged to avoid contamination
with dust.
We are working with suppliers and experts
to improve packaging sustainability whilst
delivering on the exacting requirements for
quality and protection.
Further research is needed to better
understand and manage the use of
packaging within the business. This can
be split into three supply streams, with
decreasing influencing power:
• Own manufacture
• AVL suppliers
• Other suppliers
Sustainable operations
We have implemented lean manufacturing
methodologies, such as 5S within our
manufacturing plant in Italy, designed to
decrease waste and optimise productivity.
Implementing Six Sigma principles and
investing in Industry 4.0 technology
(with more capable and efficient smart
production machinery) has laid the
foundation for more sustainable operations.
We have also aimed to reduce our
environmental impact through material
choices. Using lead‑free machining steels
and materials which do not need heat
treatment or coating has reduced our
carbon footprint and water usage.
52
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Being a responsible business continued
Our principles
Ethical business practices
Policies
Our sustainability practices are governed
by our comprehensive Code of Business
Conduct which sets out our purpose, vision
and core values, alongside the policies
and guidance that ensure ethical business
practices.
• Anti‑Bribery Statement and Policy
• Business Ethics and Responsible
Behaviour Policy
• Charitable and Political Donations Policy
• Dignity at Work Policy
• Environmental Policy
• Equal Opportunities Policy
• Equal Pay Policy
• Fair Competition and Anti‑Trust Policy
• Freedom of Association and Collective
Bargaining Policy
• Harassment Policy
• Health and Safety at Work Policy
• Trade Compliance and Sanctions Policy
• Whistleblowing Policy
• Working Conditions and Human Rights
Policy
Also included in our Code of Business
Conduct:
• Slavery & Human Trafficking Statement
We expect all employees to understand and
comply with these policies. The Code of
Business Conduct also helps our customers,
suppliers and distributors around the world
understand our requirement for them to
observe all relevant laws and regulations.
Conflict minerals
We continue to gather information from our
current suppliers concerning the origin of
the metals that are used in the manufacture
of products. Based on information provided
by our suppliers to this point, we do not
supply products containing metals derived
from a specified conflict region.
Bribery and corruption
We have a zero‑tolerance approach to all
forms of bribery and corruption. Trifast is
bound by the laws of the UK, including the
Bribery Act 2010, in respect of its conduct
both at home and abroad. In addition, we
will uphold all laws relevant to countering
bribery and corruption in all jurisdictions
in which we operate, including the USA
Foreign Corrupt Practices Act.
Anti‑bribery training is included in our
Learning Management System. Employees
have completed the training and we
continue to assess future training needs
based on job roles. From July 2024,
training relating to Bribery and Corruption
and Modern Slavery is mandatory for all
computer user employees.
Conflicts of interest
The Board has robust processes in place
to avoid and manage conflicts of interest
which might distort decision‑making.
At Board and Committee meetings,
Directors are asked to declare if they have
conflicts of interest with any of the agenda
points.
If the Chair determines a conflict is material,
that Director would not be included in
discussions or decisions for that subject.
The Chair would ensure there is a quorum
for the meeting to continue.
Whistleblowing
We ensure all employees are aware
of the global, external, independent
whistleblowing service, available to them
in their own language. This service allows
employees to anonymously report any
activity or behaviour that they do not
feel is appropriate. The confidentiality of
those who raise concerns is protected and
employees may come forward without
fear for their position. During the year
being reported and up to the date of
this publication, two reports have been
submitted to the hotline, with both relating
to business expenses.
Governance continues to be at the forefront of
everything the Company does, and the Board
recognises the continuing focus given to all aspects
of governance from our stakeholders
53
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Being a responsible business continued
Human and labour rights
Trifast recognises human rights as set out in
the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
and enshrined in EU and UK law through the
European Convention on Human Rights and
the Human Rights Act 1998. Our workplace
practices are governed by our Code of
Business Conduct, our HR policies and our
Business Ethics and Responsible Behaviour
Policy, which commits Trifast to the highest
standards in human and labour rights,
employee conduct and compliance with all
applicable legislation. It also sets out our
commitment to ensuring employees have
the freedom to associate or collectively
bargain without fear of discrimination
against the exercise of such freedoms.
Modern slavery
We comply with the requirements of the UK
Modern Slavery Act 2015 and the California
Transparency in Supply Chains Act 2010.
We remain committed to eradicating all
forms of slavery or human trafficking
and expect the same standards from
our suppliers, customers, distributors,
contractors and other suppliers of goods
and services around the world. They are
expected to meet the same standard on
labour and human rights with safe working
conditions, reasonable working hours,
freedom of association, wages that comply
with minimum wage legislation in the
appropriate jurisdiction and no forced or
inappropriate child labour.
We monitor suppliers by performing regular
assessments to assure ourselves of each
supplier’s commitment in this area. Given
our supply chain includes a wide range of
manufacturing activities across a number
of emerging economies, the business
ethics of suppliers are assessed as part
of the procurement process and through
site audits. Training on modern slavery is
provided to all new members of staff as part
of their induction and during FY25 training
will become mandatory for all employees.
Cyber security
During the last financial year, the
challenges we face in cyber security
have significantly changed. Although the
methods of attack remain familiar, they have
evolved from indiscriminate to targeted,
trying to infiltrate us every day. We are
constantly trying to stay one step ahead
of our adversaries, actively monitoring
threats and implementing new technical
countermeasures.
Phishing remains the most common attack
method, exploiting the vulnerability of
humans as our weakest link. Every day
we successfully block numerous phishing
sites which are designed to steal our
credentials. While we utilise cutting‑edge
AI technology to automatically detect and
prevent malicious sites, our cyber security
team remains invaluable at recognising and
blocking sophisticated attacks.
We are acutely aware of the potential threat
of insider attacks, stemming from either
malicious intent or simple negligence.
Our improved policies, procedures and
awareness training are helping to effectively
prevent attacks.
With such a global landscape, protecting
our virtual borders has always been a
challenge. Growing our cyber security team
has been difficult due to the global shortage
of cyber security professionals. Fortunately,
we have managed to expand our security
team to provide better annual risk audits at
all our global locations.
For 2024 and beyond, our strategy entails
enhancing our current resilience and
deploying a dynamic zero‑trust model. This
involves instilling a robust security culture
throughout the organisation, extending
from the grassroots to the Board level, and
dedicating ourselves to a comprehensive
cyber security awareness training
programme.
Privacy and data protection
We process sensitive and personal
information and have robust processes in
place to ensure it is kept securely. We have
data protection and information security
policies in place and ensure the Group’s
compliance with all relevant local laws.
We can confirm that for the financial year
reported, there have been no complaints
orprosecutions, or instances of data loss
ortheft.
It should be noted that this year, there
have been no controversies with regard to
anti‑competition, business ethics, bribery
and corruption, tax fraud, responsible
marketing, privacy or wages and working
conditions during the financial year.
Our principles continued
Trifast’s full statement on slavery
and human trafficking can
be found on the Company’s website
at www.trifast.com
54
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Being a responsible business continued
Trifast recognises that climate
change poses a significant risk
to people, ecosystems and
economies around the world
and are committed to being
aresponsiblebusiness
In accordance with the requirements of
Listing Rule 9.8.6R(8), this section of the
report includes Climate‑related Financial
Disclosures, consistent with the TCFD
recommendations and disclosures, including
the level of compliance.
The table also provides references to
where you can find more information on
our climate‑related actions throughout our
Annual Report.
In making our disclosures, we have stated
that we are compliant in all areas with the
exception of metrics and targets a) and c)
which are partially compliant (see page 65
for more details). The use of metrics and
targets to manage climate‑related risks and
opportunities is not yet fully implemented,
and we plan to improve this during FY25.
Pillar Recommendation Reference points
Governance
Disclose the organisation’s
governance around climate‑related
risks and opportunities
Describe the Board’s oversight of climate‑related
risks and opportunities
Governance section – page 56
Board and Committee framework – page 79
Executive annual bonus – page 112
Describe management’s role in assessing and
managing climate‑related risks and opportunities
Governance section – page 56
Board and Committee framework – page 79
Strategy
Disclose the actual and potential
impacts of climate‑related risks and
opportunities on the organisation’s
businesses, strategy and financial
planning where such information is
material
Describe the climate‑related risks and
opportunities the organisation has identified
overthe short, medium and long term
Strategy section – page 57
Viability statement – page 76
Principal risks ‑ page 66 to 75
Climate‑related risks and opportunities – page 58 to 62
Describe the impact of climate‑related risks and
opportunities on the organisation’s businesses,
strategy and financial planning
Strategy section – page 63
Notes to the financial accounts – page 169
Describe the resilience of the organisation’s
strategy, taking into consideration different
climate‑related scenarios, including a 2°C or
lowerscenario
Strategy section – page 63
Our new strategic direction page 10
Viability statement – page 76
Risk Management
Disclose how the organisation
identifies, assesses and manages
climate‑related risks
Describe the organisation’s processes for
identifying and assessing climate‑related risks
Risk management section – page 64
Describe the organisation’s processes for
managing climate‑related risks
Risk management section – page 64
Risk management – page 66
Describe how processes for identifying, assessing
and managing climate‑related risks are integrated
into the organisation’s overall risk management
Risk management section – page 64
Risk management – page 66
Metrics and Targets
Disclose the metrics and targets
used to assess and manage
relevant climate‑related risks
and opportunities where such
information is material
Disclose the metrics used by the organisation to
assess climate‑related risks and opportunities in
line with its strategy and risk management
Metrics and targets section – page 65
Executive annual bonus – page 112
Disclose Scope 1, Scope 2 and, if appropriate,
Scope 3 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and
therelated risks
Metrics and targets section – page 65
Emissions data – pages 48 to 50
Describe the targets used by the organisation to
manage climate‑related risks and opportunities
and performance against targets
Metrics and targets section – page 65
55
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Climate-related Financial Disclosures
Governance
Disclose the organisation’s
governance around climate-related
risks and opportunities
a. Describe the Board’s oversight of
climate-related risks and opportunities
Compliance level – Full (FY23: partial)
The Board is directly responsible for
climate‑related risks and opportunities
and is supported by both the Responsible
Business Committee and the Audit & Risk
Committee.
Our Board and Committee framework is
described on page 79.
The Responsible Business Committee meet
with management three times per year and
are updated on climate‑related risks and
opportunities by the Responsible Business
Steering Committee, including progress
against goals and targets.
The Audit & Risk Committee also meet
three times a year and review these
climate‑related risks and opportunities
within the risk reporting activities.
As of FY24, climate‑related issues are a
standing agenda point at all Responsible
Business Committee and Audit & Risk
Committee meetings.
Both the Responsible Business Committee
and the Audit & Risk Committee receive
updates in preparation for Board strategy
meetings, which have included issues such
as:
• The impact of Carbon Border Adjustment
Mechanism and near shoring plans on our
supply chain strategy
• Manufacturing efficiency and reduced
carbon footprint through investment in
production equipment and the review
of best practice and in/outsourcing
decisions for secondary operations
• The potential for innovation in products
and material developments in partnership
with key customers
• Opportunities to offset energy supply
challenges in Europe by installing solar
panels and switching to green energy
contracts
The Board consider climate‑related issues
when reviewing and guiding strategy
and setting and reviewing performance
objectives. The carbon emission reduction
target is linked specifically to the Executive
Directors’ annual bonus incentive through
the Remuneration Committee. For further
details see page 112.
The Board monitors and oversees progress
against goals and targets for addressing
climate‑related issues through the updates
provided by the Responsible Business
Committee and through presentations on
key topics from Management.
b. Describe management’s role
in assessing and managing
climate-related risks and opportunities
Compliance level – Full (FY23: full)
The Responsible Business Steering
Committee supports the business teams
in assessing, monitoring, and managing
climate‑related issues and reporting
the results to the Responsible Business
Committee through the standing agenda
items.
Assessment of risks and opportunities
includes the identification of related
business activities and any potential
material impact. The Responsible Business
Steering Committee meets three times
a year as a minimum and also reports
to the Responsible Business Committee
three times a year on climate‑related risks
and opportunities in accordance with the
standing agenda.
Our Board and Committee framework is
described on page 79.
The Responsible Business Steering
Committee Chair is the owner of the
climate‑related principal risks and is
responsible for nominating subject matter
experts to take part in risk analysis and
scoring activities as well as identifying
controls and ensuring any necessary
mitigating actions are implemented across
the business.
56
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Climate-related Financial Disclosures continued
Governance continued
b. Describe management’s role
in assessing and managing
climate-related risks and opportunities
continued
Throughout the year, risk owners and subject
matter experts take part in deep‑dive risk
reviews and presentations to the Board.
The Steering Committee Chair works
with the Executive Leadership Team to
ensure that the climate‑related risks and
opportunities are addressed through the
regional and functional teams.
Our Board and Committee framework on
page 79 shows the relationship between the
Board, its Committees and theleadership
groups.
During FY23 a broad range of
climate‑related risks and opportunities
were identified and in FY24 we built
on this work and engaged with our
network of champions to understand how
climate‑related issues affect each of our
sites on a geographical basis.
In FY25 we plan to establish key risk
indicators for our principal risks, which will
improve the way we monitor climate‑related
issues across the business.
Strategy
Disclose the actual and potential
impacts of climate-related risks and
opportunities on the organisation’s
businesses, strategy and financial
planning where such information
ismaterial
a. Describe the climate-related risks
and opportunities the organisation has
identified over the short, medium and
long term
Compliance level – Full (FY23: partial)
Climate‑related risks and opportunities are
reviewed and prioritised based on their
strategic importance and potential financial
impact on the business, including the
business activities where the impact would
occur.
The areas of materiality are provided
for each of the climate‑related risks and
opportunities, which are shown on pages
58 to 62.
We have linked our climate‑related risks
and opportunities, as well as our principal
risks to our viability statement, see pages
76 and 77.
We have identified sustainability and climate
change as a principal risk, see page 70,
and we have also identified a further five
climate‑related issues that have a material
impact on our business, see pages 58 to 62.
In FY23 we carried out basic qualitative
analysis of our climate‑related risks in order
to establish the most appropriate time
horizons for reporting our climate‑related
risks and opportunities, particularly with
consideration of the timescales for net zero
targets. In FY24 we aligned our CDP time
horizons with these periods to remove any
inconsistency in our reporting: Shortterm
0‑3 years, medium term 3‑15 years,
longterm 15‑25+ years.
57
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Climate-related Financial Disclosures continued
Description Why we think it’s important How we are mitigating the risk Key data
Carbon Border Adjustment
Mechanism (CBAM)
CBAM is a short to medium‑term
transition risk both for our European
sites who are now submitting reporting
data and for our manufacturing sites
outside of Europe that are providing
data for their customer base in Europe.
CBAM applies to steel fasteners and
will require advanced purchase of
carbon certificates as payment of the
tax, which will need to be passed on to
customers.
Differences between CBAM schemes
in Europe, UK and USA will add
complexity to managing and submitting
data and are likely to drive resource
requirements at our sites and in our
supply chain until a technological
solution is developed within the
industry.
Links to principal risks:
Sustainability and climate change
page70
Supply chain resilience page 72
Legal or regulatory non‑compliance
page69
The carbon price is expected to
increase significantly as a result of
global climate change mitigation based
on weighted global averages for carbon
prices. Source: IIASA NGFS Climate
Scenarios Database, REMIND model.
In the short to medium term we expect
that this will drive improvement in the
efficiency of production equipment as
well as support development and wider
commercial availability of ‘green steel’
for use in fastener production.
Where manufacturing efficiency can’t
be improved significantly, we would
expect to see an increase in engineering
product development and onshoring
of manufacturing processes based on
customer manufacturing locations,
which is currently constrained by
machine capacity across the fastener
industry outside of Asia.
We are following the EU CBAM
phases, with initial submissions from
our European sites based on the
standardised commodity code data.
We have carried out an initial
assessment of reporting readiness
from our suppliers based on our
EU‑imported products and we have
reviewed variances in data from similar
sources.
We have carried out basic qualitative
modelling of the carbon price under
different climate change scenarios
to understand how changes in price
may impact the cost of import over
our short, medium and long‑term time
horizons.
We are investing in resource to support
training and development within our
supply chain.
We are working with industry groups in
the UK and Europe to improve CBAM
reporting mechanisms and models for
fasteners.
Category
Transition risk
Metrics links
Scope 1 and 2 emissions from our factories
pages 48 to 50
Scope 3 emissions from our purchased
products page 49
Specific materiality
Cost of CBAM reporting administration at
our sites in Europe and our manufacturing
sites outside of Europe
Cost of supply chain development to
provide data
Cost of data management resources and
technology
Cost of carbon certificates purchase
Time horizon
Short Medium Long
Material impact
Low Medium High
Read more about
Stakeholder engagement page 26
Paving the way for fair climate trade
page51
Sustainable operations page 52
Strategy continued
Climate-related risks and opportunities
58
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Description Why we think it’s important How we are mitigating the risk Key data
Supply chain disruption
Increases in extreme weather events
as a result of climate change resulting
in floods, fires and landslides are likely
to cause disruption to local transport
networks in our supply chain.
Links to principal risks:
Sustainability and climate change
page70
Supply chain resilience page 72
We make, buy and sell fasteners to
our global customer base, and we
operate in 16 countries. Maintaining
excellent quality and service through
our fastening supply solutions is a key
aspect of our business strategy. We
have established a network of trusted
global suppliers as well as a global
logistics network.
We have previously seen that disruption
events such as extreme weather and
pandemics drive customer desire for
onshoring of products to minimise the
impact of disruption, but manufacturing
capacity across the fastener industry
continues to make this challenging and
is often deemed to be cost‑prohibitive
by customers.
We expect this risk to persist at today’s
global temperature, and to increase
in severity with any further rise in
global temperature, resulting in higher
operating costs across the industry,
for both transportation of product
and potential disruption of customer
assembly processes.
Our ‘Think Global, Act Local’ approach
includes:
• Supply chain owners assigned to
suppliers
• Shipping company data analysis
• Disruption events managed by
designated supplier and customer
support teams
• Near shoring our global supply chain
where possible
• Approved Vendor Quality &
Sustainability Agreements
In FY25 we plan to develop our
‘Sustainable Supply Chain Strategy’,
including aspects such as how we map
our supply chain, and measurement of
onshoring success, which will help us
identify further opportunities.
Category
Acute‑Physical
Metrics links
Scope 3 purchased goods and services data
page 49
Specific materiality
Cost of disruption
Cost of expedited deliveries to customers
as a result of supply chain disruption
Reputational damage
Potential loss of a customer
Time horizon
Short Medium Long
Material impact
Low Medium High
Read more about
Supply chains page 51
Stakeholder engagement pages 24 to 26
Strategy continued
Climate-related risks and opportunities continued
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Description Why we think it’s important How we are mitigating the risk Key data
Carbon footprint of
manufacturing processes
The high‑carbon intensity of traditional
fastener manufacturing processes,
and the associated secondary
processes such as heat treatment and
plating, is considered a medium‑term
transitionrisk.
Machine efficiency improvements
can be made to existing equipment,
but improvements in technology and
materials are also required.
Heat treatment processes depend on
the use of heat and gases to change
the material properties of metal
components, typically improving their
strength, or changing their failure mode
in a specific design application.
Plating and coating processes are used
to improve the corrosion performance
of fasteners and to apply lubricants or
locking features.
Links to principal risks:
Sustainability and climate change
page70
Product failure page 73
The speed at which new technology
becomes commercially available is
expected to be driven by tightening
regulation (and increasing cost) of
traditional processes, which we have
seen previously with the phase‑out
of hexavalent chrome from fastener
plating processes.
Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanisms
(CBAM) and their associated costs are
based on the end‑to‑end manufacturing
process, with older equipment having a
lower efficiency than newer machines.
Investment in new manufacturing
equipment that is Industry 4.0
compliant to improve efficiency at our
TR Italy manufacturing plant.
Refurbishing the in‑house heat
treatment line, to improve efficiency at
our TR Italy manufacturing plant, with
initial results showing a 16.8% reduction
in gas consumption.
Removal of the in‑house electroplating
facility at our TR Italy manufacturing
plant, with product processing
moved to a more efficient third‑party
processing plant.
Use of solar panels to generate
electricity at our TR Italy site.
Manufacturing best practice review
across Taiwan, Singapore and Malaysia.
Category
Transition–technology
Metrics links
Scope 1 and 2 emissions from our factories
pages 48 to 50
Specific materiality
Cost of replacing manufacturing equipment
to improve efficiency
Cost of losing business in Asia for products
supplied to customers in Europe and USA
Cost of outsourcing carbon intense
processes to suppliers with new technology
Improved operating efficiency
Time horizon
Short Medium Long
Material impact
Low Medium High
Read more about
Design for environment page 51
Sustainable operations page 52
Strategy continued
Climate-related risks and opportunities continued
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Description Why we think it’s important How we are mitigating the risk Key data
Carbon footprint of products
As well as the carbon footprint of
fastener manufacturing processes,
we consider that the carbon footprint
of the fasteners themselves is a
medium‑term transition risk.
The high‑carbon footprint of traditional
metal fasteners is expected to be
highlighted by product‑specific Scope
3 declarations for our own CBAM
reporting and in response to customer
requests for product‑specific data to
support their own CBAM reporting.
Links to principal risks:
Sustainability and climate change
page70
Increasing awareness of product‑specific
carbon footprint is expected to drive
customer requirements for low‑carbon
product solutions for existing
applications, followed by a more
substantial change in customer product
requirements.
Both of these anticipated outcomes
are viewed as opportunities for our
engineering and innovation teams;
however, our ability to maximise
these opportunities and keep up with
developments in engineering materials
will be dependent on our investment in
engineering innovation.
Product simplification, weight
reduction, and innovation projects with
our customers.
In‑region purchasing of steel and
purchasing from sustainable electric
ARC processes where possible.
Investment in product development to
support increased recycled content of
components.
Review of manufacturing methods
and transfer from bar turning to cold
forging processes for key products.
Category
Transition risk – reputation
Metrics links
Scope 1 and 2 emissions from our factories
pages 48 to 50
Scope 3 emissions from our purchased
products page 49
Specific materiality
Impact of near shoring products from Asia
to European and US regions
Impact of reduced demand for traditional
fastener products
Cost of outsourcing carbon‑intensive
processes to suppliers with new technology
Cost of purchasing raw materials from
sustainable sources
Investment in innovation
New opportunities based on product
developments and innovation
Time horizon
Short Medium Long
Material impact
Low Medium High
Read more about
Design for environment page 51
Sustainable operations page 52
Design for recyclability page 52
Strategy continued
Climate-related risks and opportunities continued
61
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Description Why we think it’s important How we are mitigating the risk Key data
Market sector changes
Over the last three years we have
witnessed changes in our customer
market sectors, particularly with the
growth of the electric vehicle and
renewable energy sectors.
Industry and technology changes in
the future may lead to the reduction
of traditional fastener applications and
provide opportunities in a range of new
and emerging sectors.
Links to principal risks:
Sustainability and climate change
page70
Operation in a volatile
macroenvironment page 68
In the short term (0‑3 years) we expect
that there will be changes in traditional
market sectors, with the emphasis on
sustainable improvement for existing
products.
In the medium term (3‑15 years) we
may see the emergence of new market
sectors, driven by developments in
materials and technology to improve
sustainability.
Historically we have always been able
to follow market sector developments
by supporting our customers in new
regions and through new projects.
Step changes in technology and the
emergence of new industries to meet
climate change solutions are likely to
come from different sources, such as
innovation and technology centres,
and will require different methods of
customer engagement.
Alignment of value proposition with our
core customer needs and expectations.
Development of our Connect360
customer engagement solution to
support market sector analysis and
identification of opportunities.
Focus on anticipated high‑growth
sectors.
Investment in product development.
Category
Opportunity – Markets
Metrics links
Percent revenue by sector page 31
Specific materiality
Potential value of market sectors at risk
Potential value of market sector
opportunities
Impact of reduced demand for our
customers’ products
Time horizon
Short Medium Long
Material impact
Low Medium High
Read more about
Our new strategic direction page 12
Design for recyclability page 52
Strategy continued
Climate-related risks and opportunities continued
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Strategy continued
b. Describe the impact of
climate-related risks and opportunities
on the organisation’s businesses,
strategy and financial planning
Compliance level – Full
(FY23:notcompliant)
At Group level, our function‑based financial
planning and budget approval includes
consideration of resource requirements
to support the regional business teams,
including CBAM supply chain development,
innovation and product development
through our engineering teams. Details of
the financial considerations can be found on
page 169.
Our site‑based financial planning and
budget approval processes include planning
for local actions, such as site transition to
green energy contracts and introduction
of renewable energy, where feasible. In
FY23 we introduced our TRuProfit™ model
to ensure visibility of product and service
costs, and we expect this model to be key
to the ongoing analysis of the impact of
climate‑related costs across our business.
Extreme weather events may cause damage
to our facilities and consequently disrupt
our operations, and physical impacts are
assessed at site level as part of the business
insurance process.
c. Describe the resilience of the
organisation’s strategy, taking into
consideration different climate-related
scenarios, including a 2°C or
lowerscenario
Compliance level – Full
(FY23:notcompliant)
Our new strategic direction is based on our
four strategic initiatives:
• Margin management
• Focused growth
• Organisational effectiveness
• Operational efficiency
Our Business Model is built on three key
competitive strengths:
• Supply chain simplification
• Engineering
• Manufacturing
See page 18 for more information.
Each of these areas are key to the
sustainability of our organisation and is
clearly linked to the climate‑related risks
and opportunities that we have identified.
During FY23 we carried out qualitative
scenario mapping to support our
understanding of climate‑related risks and
opportunities, which we expanded in FY24
to consider the specific geographies of
oursites.
In FY24 we also used carbon price
predictions from the IIASA NGFS Climate
Scenarios Database, REMIND model to
understand how changes in the carbon
pricing may impact our European imports
inthe following scenarios:
• Net zero 2050
• Divergent net zero
• Nationally determined contributions
The three scenarios were chosen to provide
the widest range of outcomes.
In order to gain the greatest understanding
of the potential changes, we used a
constant volume of imported goods and did
not take into account the introduction of
other regional CBAM schemes.
We used a single commodity code for steel
products, and we assumed a constant
default CO
2
e value based on the current
published figure without making any
adjustment for secondary operations for
products.
Our increased understanding of the likely
impact of CBAM on our organisation and
on the wider fastener industry has led us
to prioritise engagement with our suppliers
and internal teams on reporting data and
we have carried out initial benchmarking on
CO
2
e calculations across key suppliers.
Understanding the administrative burden
of the reporting has led us to engage
with industry groups in lobbying for
improvements to the European scheme, and
with the UK Government consultation on the
proposals for UK CBAM.
The creation of our sustainable supply chain
strategy in FY25 will further support this
work.
We have used the CBAM modelling as an
input to our viability statement see page 76.
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Governance Financial statements Additional information
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Risk management
Disclose how the organisation
identifies, assesses and manages
climate-related risks
a. Describe the organisation’s
processes for identifying and assessing
climate-related risks
Compliance level – Full (FY23: partial)
Our site‑based operational teams and our
regional and functional teams identify,
assess, own and manage climate‑related
risks and opportunities, including those
linked to climate‑related regulatory
requirements. Throughout the year the
Responsible Business Steering Committee
and the interim CFO have received training
from external advisers regarding new and
changed climate‑related legislation and
horizon scanning for future changes.
Information is shared through our regional
and functional management structure and
updates are provided to the Responsible
Business Steering Committee, who consider
the wider risk to the Group as well as trends
in climate‑related risks and opportunities.
The Network of Champions also provide
feedback directly to the Steering Committee
and functional and regional managers
identify and alert senior management to
emerging issues and changing risk scenarios
through the normal course of their work.
All principal risks and opportunities are
reviewed and scored for impact and
likelihood quarterly by the risk owner
and their nominated subject matter
experts, they are also reviewed by the
RiskCommittee.
The risk department carry out horizon
scanning activities and risk analysis to
support the business teams and risk owners
and to identify any emerging risks including
new or changing climate‑related legislation.
b. Describe the organisation’s
processes for managing
climate-related risks
Compliance level – Full
(FY23:notcompliant)
See page 66
Climate‑related risks are managed within
our enterprise risk management framework.
Decisions about how to mitigate risk are
made based on the impact and likelihood
of the risk occurring, and the cost of
additional actions against the specific
materiality for each area of the business.
Group activities are guided by the members
of the Steering Committee working with the
business teams, e.g. to reduce Scope 1 and 2
emissions.
Physical risks are managed within
operational regions and sites, where the
teams establish and maintain business
continuity plans. Our ISO 14001 certification
underpins our environmental risk
management.
c. Describe how processes for
identifying, assessing and managing
climate-related risks are integrated
into the organisation’s overall risk
management
Compliance level – Full (FY23:partial)
The impact of climate change on the
Group’s profitability is included as a
principal risk due to the wide range of
material impacts identified for both the
associated risks and opportunities. Supply
chain resilience is also considered a
principal risk and includes an element of
climate‑related supply chain disruption.
The Company Secretary is the Executive
Leadership Team member with management
responsibility for climate‑related matters
and reports directly into the CEO on
these issues. This includes developing
and implementing transition plans,
assessing and managing climate‑related
risks and opportunities and integrating
climate‑related items into Group strategy.
The Company Secretary and members
of the Responsible Business Steering
Committee provide climate‑related updates
to the Responsible Business Committee,
with support from specialist internal teams,
Network of Champions and third‑party
advisers.
Climate‑related risks and opportunities
are fully integrated in our enterprise risk
management system, which allows us to
identify where risks are linked through
cause and effect relationships. See our
approach to risk management on page 66.
64
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Climate-related Financial Disclosures continued
Metrics and targets
Disclose the metrics and targets
used to assess and manage
relevant climate-related risks and
opportunities where such information
is material
a. Disclose the metrics used by the
organisation to assess climate-related
risks and opportunities in line with its
strategy and risk management
Compliance level – Partial (FY23: not
compliant)
Our climate‑related risks are linked to our
Scope 1, 2 and 3 GHG emissions, and our
climate‑related opportunities are linked to
our percentage revenue by market sector.
During FY25 we will increase the range
of metrics that we use to manage our
climate‑related risks and opportunities.
We have previously reported our Scope
1, Scope 2 and Scope 3 emissions, where
Scope 3 included only business travel.
During FY24 we expanded our Scope
3 reporting to include the following
categories:
• Category 1: supply chain emissions from
purchased goods and services
• Category 7: employee commuting
• Category 15: investments
We have re‑stated our FY23 emissions to
include this data.
b. Disclose Scope 1, Scope 2 and, if
appropriate, Scope 3 greenhouse gas
(GHG) emissions, and the related risks
Compliance level – Full (FY23: partial)
Our emissions data is provided on pages
48 to 50, and shows that our total emissions
and all our emissions intensity factor metrics
have decreased in FY24 compared to the
previous year.
GHG emissions:
• Absolute Scope 1, Scope 2 and Scope 3
emissions
• Total emissions by region and business
type
• Hours worked as FTE (Full Time
Equivalent)
• Revenue – per £1k revenue
• Tonnes of CO
2
e per m
2
(square metres of
floor space occupied by the Company)
In establishing our NDC we transferred
existing stock from our UK sites into
our new warehouse, which as a specific
activity adds to our UK emissions; however,
the reduction in our UK footprint and
the anticipated improved stock holding
efficiency is expected to support a
reduction in UK emissions over the next
twoyears.
Closure of our UK manufacturing division
will have reduced Scope 1 and 2 emissions;
however, the equivalent emissions will have
been added into Scope 3.
The complexity of emissions calculations
has led to the use of standardised data
for fastener commodities, including EU
emissions factors for CBAM reporting and
the use of spend‑based analysis to calculate
Scope 3 purchased goods and servicesdata.
We are working with our factories and our
supply chain to improve reporting data,
and we have committed to establishing our
sustainable supply chain strategy in FY25.
By expanding our Scope 3 emissions
reporting, we have started the process to
understand the year‑on‑year comparison,
which will allow us to set targets for our
Scope 3 reduction in FY26.
Our main source of emission factors is
BEIS (2023), with other data selected to
fill gaps or because it is deemed to be
more accurate. IEA (2023) data is used
for calculating emissions of non‑UK,
location‑based electricity, while BEIS (2023)
is used for calculating emissions of UK,
location‑based electricity.
c. Describe the targets used
by the organisation to manage
climate-related risks and opportunities
and performance against targets
Compliance level – Partial
(FY23: partial)
Our key climate‑related target is the
reduction of Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions
by 67.2% by 2035 against the 2019 baseline
(equates to a 4.2% reduction annually). In
FY24 we have started to formally define our
transition plan for Scope 1 and 2 emissions
to be net zero by FY35.
20% of our Executive remuneration annual
bonus targets are linked to the execution of
the transformation plan and include specific
sustainability objectives see page 112.
As we increase our range of metrics,
we also plan to improve the use of targets
in managing our climate‑related risks
and opportunities.
65
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
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Governance and process
The Board of Directors, through the Audit
& Risk Committee (ARC), has overall
responsibility for ensuring that Trifast
has an appropriate and effective risk
management and controls framework in
place, which includes the determination of
the nature and extent of risk it is willing to
take to achieve its strategic objectives. Our
Risk Management Policy defines how we
expect risks to be identified, assessed and
managed across our organisation.
Risks are described in terms of their impact
and their likelihood and considered both
before and after mitigation, which helps us
review the effectiveness of our controls and
risk treatment. Our risks are categorised
within our risk framework, which helps
us to ensure that our risk identification is
comprehensive. A detailed annual review of
risk is carried out and the effectiveness of
our risk management and internal controls
system is reviewed twice a year by the ARC.
Our Group Risk Committee meets
three times a year to ensure that our
risk assessment and reporting remains
proportionate, aligned, comprehensive,
embedded and dynamic (PACED). Our
principal risks are reviewed quarterly by the
risk owners and their nominated subject
matter experts and the results of the review
are fed into the Group Risk Committee.
The nature of our risks
Over the last 12 months there have
been changes to both the internal and
external context of our organisation. We
have considered these changes and the
types of disruption that could affect our
operations to help us identify and define
risks, including emerging risks. We have
used a combination of horizon scanning,
cross‑functional collaboration and external
sources (such as industry forums and global
risk reports) to support our understanding
and interpretation of risks.
Externally, we have seen ongoing changes
and uncertainty in the macroenvironment,
which is creating a ‘new normal’ in the way
that we work and an increase in the agility
we need to demonstrate in responding to
external challenges. We have also seen the
impact of increased reporting requirements
such as Carbon Border Adjustment
Mechanism (CBAM), and plastic packaging
taxes across all levels of our supply chain,
as well as the increasing severity of the
physical effects of climate change across
transport networks globally.
Internally, leadership changes have brought
a new ‘tone from the top’, delivering a
more compliance‑focused culture. We have
established our UK National Distribution
Centre (NDC), allowing us to consider a
wider range of technological solutions to
improve our process control and efficiency,
whilst reducing our operational teams
in some of our established geographical
locations.
These changes are reflected in our emerging
risks and in our principal risks.
Our approach to risk management
Our risk department was established in
2022 and initially set out to review and
define the principal risks along with the
leadership team. Over the last two years
we have been improving and refining our
approach to risk management, including
the way that we describe our risks. We use
a system of Enterprise Risk Management
(ERM) which brings together all aspects
of risk into one framework, including
climate‑related risks and opportunities.
During FY24 we focused on developing our
risk maturity and we carried out extensive
risk review sessions with our functional and
regional teams, as well as exploring risk
themes linked to compliance.
In describing our principal risks we
have identified links to our strategy and
viability assessments. We have identified
sustainability and climate change as a
principal risk, and we have also identified
five climate‑related risks which are
described on pages 58 to 62.
In establishing our risk appetite we have
considered the changes to our internal and
external context, and their impact on our
business model and strategy.
Emerging risks
Agility and speed of adaptation
In a rapidly changing world our ability
to recognise each new challenge and
opportunity as they develop and work with
our suppliers to deliver customer solutions
is critical to delivering our strategy.
AI and disruptive technology
Advances in technology help us to
continually improve our customer service,
and we anticipate that the use of AI in
industry will produce a step change in
technological solutions. The uncontrolled
use of AI also brings a significant change in
online threats and methods used to bypass
cybersecurity.
Inventory management
In establishing our UK NDC we have packed
and shipped products from our existing
UK sites into one warehouse, requiring
additional controls and management
activities to ensure that the stock integrity
is protected. There is opportunity to
consolidate stock of the same items that
were previously held at each location and
improve inventory management.
Business continuity planning
The creation of the UK NDC increases the
impact of any risk event on our customer
service and drives a need for changes in
our business continuity planning, whilst at
the same time reduces the risk from legacy
sites with known vulnerabilities including
flooding.
Product development and changing
customer requirements
Our customer needs are changing, we have
seen a strong drive for product weight
reduction for many years, more recently
our customers are focusing on engineering
solutions for sustainability including the
‘right to repair’ and recycling initiatives.
Read more about stakeholder
engagement on page 24
Read about our Board and
Committee Framework
on page79
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Governance Financial statements Additional information
Risk management
Key to risks: Increase from 2023 No change Decrease from 2023
V
Link to viability
Business transformation
V
Description
There is a risk that we will fail to achieve our planned business transformation improvements
and their associated reduction in costs and efficiency enhancements
Why we think it’s important
Business transformation is fundamental
to the ongoing success of the Group
in creating and delivering value for our
customers and stakeholders, including
technological solutions and innovation.
This risk also links to potential failure
to sustain and improve operational
performance during transformation;
failure to optimise inventory; failure to
engage stakeholders; failure to drive
innovation; and failure to identify and
mitigate disruption.
As we reshape our organisation, we
inevitably introduce new risk, including
insider risk.
How we are mitigating the risk
Our new focused business strategy and
transformation plan is built on:
Defining our core strengths
• Reshaping the organisation to align
with our strategy
• Investment in transformation skills
• Investment in key account and
innovation engineering capability
• Aligning our value proposition to
selected markets and geographies
• Targeted transformation projects to
deliver agile and data‑driven solutions
What’s changed
The last few years have been challenging
for many of our customers and for our
business.
Our strategy journey will take us through
three phases: Recovery, Rebuild and
Resilience, with our initial focus on
returning to positive margin growth,
each stage will include a range of
transformation activities as our business
continues to evolve.
Risk owner: Chief Executive Officer
Materiality
Low Medium High
Risk appetite
Low Medium High
Likelihood
Possible Likely
Very
likely
Almost
certain
Impact
Individual Function Site Region Group
Read more about
CEO review page 6
National Distribution Centre page 27
Our people page 39
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Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
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Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Our principal risks
Key to risks: Increase from 2023 No change Decrease from 2023
V
Link to viability
Operation in a volatile macroenvironment
V
Description
There is a risk that economic contraction and geopolitical instability will disrupt existing markets and value chains,
and that we will fail to take advantage of the new business opportunities that come from changes in global market
sectors and customer drive for supply chain sustainability
Why we think it’s important
Our global business teams operate across
a range of sectors and geographies, each
of which may be exposed to fluctuating
demand and a range of constraints and
opportunities.
The unpredictable nature of changes
associated with this risk makes revenue
forecasting increasingly difficult and
requires the business to have greater
flexibility in stock holding to support
customer changes.
Changes in the macroenvironment
provide opportunities in new and
emerging market sectors.
How we are mitigating the risk
We recognise the need to focus on
geographies and market sectors where
we have the best alignment between our
value proposition and customer needs,
and to support this we have carried out
an analysis of our competitive positioning.
We have identified market sectors for
future growth within our short (1‑3 years)
and medium (3‑15 years) time horizons.
Implementation of the TRuProfit™ model
through our GAD/SAM sales structure,
functional and regional business support
helps us maintain focused margin
management and value‑based customer
and supplier engagement.
Development of our ‘Connect360’
technology platform to build on value
creation opportunities, and our ‘Virtual
Engineer’ project to connect customers
to our website product listings.
What’s changed
We recognise that in the last 12 months
geopolitical risk has been normalised and
is driving requirements for greater supply
chain agility and adaption to change.
Customer demand across key market
sectors is increasingly difficult to predict
and the emphasis has shifted from the
external environment, to our ability to
adapt to changing customer requirements
and manage changing supply chain costs.
Risk owner: Chief Commercial Officer
Materiality
Low Medium High
Risk appetite
Low Medium High
Likelihood
Possible Likely
Very
likely
Almost
certain
Impact
Individual Function Site Region Group
Read more about
Our new strategic direction page 10
What our customers want page 15
Technology page 9
68
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Our principal risks continued
Key to risks: Increase from 2023 No change Decrease from 2023
V
Link to viability
Non-compliance with legal or regulatory requirements
V
Description
There is a risk of unintentional failure to comply with international and local legal and regulatory requirements
Why we think it’s important
Our global footprint requires us to comply
with differing laws and regulations across
our sites, and our customers require us
to maintain certification against global
quality management standards (including
ISO 9001, IATF 1649, ISO14001, EN9120,
ISO 27001 and Cyber Essentials).
We expect all areas of our business
to fully comply with applicable laws
and regulations and the Trifast Code
ofConduct.
How we are mitigating the risk
The Trifast Code of Conduct is supported
by our Group policies, compliance‑based
training modules and our vision for
OneTR.
The launch of our Integrated Management
System in FY25 will support the work
of our control functions (Finance, IT,
HR, EHS, Quality and Engineering) in
setting policies and procedures, and
communicating them throughout the
business.
Our internal audits assess compliance
with Group policies, and a whistleblowing
hotline is available for use by all
employees. Insurance covers all standard
categories of insurable risk.
We monitor legislative changes, including
those relating to climate‑related matters
through external advisers, training and
engagement with national and global
industry trade associations.
What’s changed
During FY24 the Carbon Border
Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) reporting
requirements were introduced in Europe
and similar schemes are anticipated
in other regions. We saw a range of
requirements for plastic packaging
declarations within Europe, the UK
andthe USA.
These requirements all increase the
need for data collection and reporting
from all parties in the supply chain to
demonstrate compliance. In addition,
where our customers are affected by
additional reporting requirements, these
obligations need to be supported by
upward reporting of product and supply
chain data.
Risk owner: Company Secretary
Materiality
Low Medium High
Risk appetite
Low Medium High
Likelihood
Possible Likely
Very
likely
Almost
certain
Impact
Individual Function Site Region Group
Read more about
Governance section page 78
Audit & Risk Committee report page 96
69
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Our principal risks continued
Key to risks: Increase from 2023 No change Decrease from 2023
V
Link to viability
Sustainability and climate change
V
Description
There is a risk that sustainability and climate change risks and opportunities will impact the profitability of the business
Why we think it’s important
Fasteners are produced using
energy‑intensive processes and are
shipped around the world to meet
customer demand, resulting in a
significant carbon footprint.
Climate‑driven changes in materials
and technology are expected to create
new customer applications, new market
sectors and new opportunities.
Climate change mitigation is expected to
drive new requirements for compliance
and supporting data, as well as drive
legislation to improve sustainability.
Failure to mitigate and adapt to the
challenges and opportunities associated
with climate change may have a
significant impact in all areas of our
business.
How we are mitigating the risk
Working with our supply chain and
industry groups to meet our CBAM
reporting obligations and using published
data to understand the impact of
anticipated changes in carbon pricing on
our business.
Using a ‘Think Global, Act Local’
approach to our supply chain
management, near shoring our supply
chain where possible, and implementing
our Quality & Sustainability Agreement
with our top suppliers.
Improving the efficiency of our
manufacturing processes and using solar
panels to generate electricity where
possible.
Working with customers on weight
reduction of components and innovation
projects to increase the recycled content
of products.
Aligning our value proposition with our
core customer needs and expectations,
developing our Connect360 customer
engagement solution and focusing on
anticipated high‑growth sectors.
What’s changed
Sustainability and climate‑related issues
are increasingly driving legislation and
changing customer and stakeholder
requirements for compliance, assurance
and related data.
Introduction of CBAM reporting
requirement in Europe and consultation
underway for UK CBAM is driving
awareness of the fastener carbon
footprint, and associated actions to
improve manufacturing efficiency and
sourcing of raw materials from more
sustainable sources.
The increasing availability of renewable
energy solutions is providing
opportunities for more sustainable
electricity contracts in some of our
regions and enabling the use of direct
solar power at some of our sites.
Changes in consumer demand are driving
changes in market sectors, providing
opportunities for new and existing
customers.
Changes in materials processing
technology create opportunities for
product development, particularly in
recycled content of components.
Risk owner: Company Secretary
Materiality
Low Medium High
Risk appetite
Low Medium High
Likelihood
Possible Likely
Very
likely
Almost
certain
Impact
Individual Function Site Region Group
Read more about
Our planet page 47
Climate‑related Financial Disclosures
page 55
Climate‑related risks and opportunities
page 58
70
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Our principal risks continued
Key to risks: Increase from 2023 No change Decrease from 2023
V
Link to viability
Cyber intrusion and data loss
V
Description
There is a risk of failure to adequately protect against cyber fraud and information security risks at a global level
Why we think it’s important
Cyber intrusion poses a significant risk
to operational disruption, reputational
damage, regulatory fines and other
financial impacts.
For some market sectors, eligibility
for new business is dependent on our
ongoing maintenance of the Cyber
Essentials certificate.
The global nature of our operations
exposes us to constantly changing
geo‑political tensions which could
increase the risk of cyberattacks.
How we are mitigating the risk
We have Group IT support for our
networked applications.
We use a combination of in‑house and
third‑party penetration testing.
We carry out regular Cybsafe training and
awareness campaigns.
We maintain our Cyber Essentials
certificate and insurance.
We use cloud‑based software solutions
wherever possible
We have segregation within our IT
infrastructure.
What’s changed
Cyberattacks are becoming
more sophisticated and frequent,
advancements in artificial intelligence (AI)
have become pivotal in both offence and
defence. Cyber criminals increasingly use
AI‑driven tools to orchestrate targeted
attacks, and organisations must leverage
powered security solutions to anticipate
and mitigate emerging threats.
Cyberattacks are increasingly aimed at
companies such as our high‑profile OEM
customers. Attackers have been known to
exploit weaknesses in the supply chain to
gain access to OEM systems.
Risk owner: Global Technology Director
Materiality
Low Medium High
Risk appetite
Low Medium High
Likelihood
Possible Likely
Very
likely
Almost
certain
Impact
Individual Function Site Region Group
Read more about
Operation in a volatile macroenvironment
page 68
Non‑compliance with legal or regulatory
requirements page 69
Business transformation page 67
71
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Our principal risks continued
Key to risks: Increase from 2023 No change Decrease from 2023
V
Link to viability
Supply chain resilience
V
Description
There is a risk that the supply chain is not resilient enough to support the changing market expectations for supply chain reporting
Why we think it’s important
An effective, efficient supply chain is
fundamental to maintaining a competitive
edge, and the resilience of our suppliers
is key to maximising commercial
opportunities in new and emerging
market sectors.
In the last 12 months, we have seen
significantly increased administration
requirements and associated costs linked
to product compliance declarations.
Increasing exposure of the supply
chain to end customers through
declarations and compliance audits
may result in an increased interest in
customers purchasing direct from our
manufacturers.
How we are mitigating the risk
Our transformation strategy builds on
defining our core strengths and reshaping
the organisation to align with our
strategy, which includes focused supply
chain engagement through supplier
account owners.
We are working with industry groups
to understand new and emerging
compliance‑based reporting
requirements (such as CBAM).
We are working with our core
supply chain to implement our
Quality&Sustainability Agreement
and toidentify where supply chain
development initiatives may be required.
What’s changed
Flow‑down of the German Supply Chain
Due Diligence Act through our key
customers.
The introduction of CBAM reporting for
product supplied to Europe.
Plastic packaging tax in UK and Europe.
Changes in supply chain requirements in
India.
Increasing tariffs and anti‑dumping duties
as a result of geopolitical and market
instability.
Risk owner: Global Supply Chain
Director
Materiality
Low Medium High
Risk appetite
Low Medium High
Likelihood
Possible Likely
Very
likely
Almost
certain
Impact
Individual Function Site Region Group
Read more about
Supply chains page 51
Ethical business practices page 53
Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism
page 58
Supply chain disruption page 59
72
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Our principal risks continued
Key to risks: Increase from 2023 No change Decrease from 2023
V
Link to viability
Product failure
Description
There is a risk of product failure in customer applications resulting in non‑compliance with standards,
financial loss and reputational damage
Why we think it’s important
Fasteners are designed to perform
a specific function within a finished
product, and their safe use is reliant not
only on the manufacturing processes by
which they are produced, but also the
design specification and selection for
their intended use.
Technical review of customer orders
through the discipline of Advanced
Product Quality Planning (APQP)
has always been a key aspect of our
automotive new business process.
How we are mitigating the risk
In our manufacturing sites, our engineers
work to refine tool design, production
processes and efficiencies, to ensure that
parts are manufactured to the correct
specification, are fit for purpose and that
the quality is right first time.
Our engineers look for opportunities to
take part in customer Value Analysis and
Value Engineering (VAVE) initiatives and
engagement of Trifast engineers in the
design process allows fully integrated
fastener solutions.
Our widespread experience in multiple
applications and markets allows us
to support customers in making the
best design decisions, and our ‘Virtual
Engineer’ project is designed to connect
customers to our website product listings.
What’s changed
Changes in national and international
fastener standards, including the
withdrawal of legacy standards, are
highlighting gaps in fastener engineering
knowledge throughout the industry.
Climate change and sustainability are
driving improvements in manufacturing
and materials technology as well as
the need to reduce component weight
and increase the recycled content of
components.
Risk owner: Global Head of Quality
Materiality
Low Medium High
Risk appetite
Low Medium High
Likelihood
Possible Likely
Very
likely
Almost
certain
Impact
Individual Function Site Region Group
Read more about
Design for environment page 51
Carbon footprint of products page 61
73
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Our principal risks continued
Key to risks: Increase from 2023 No change Decrease from 2023
V
Link to viability
Failure to attract, engage and retain talent
Description
There is a risk that we will fail to engage employees in each of the phases of our transformation plan
Why we think it’s important
Our people are our biggest asset so our
ability to retain and develop talent is key
to the delivery of our strategy. Talent
management is one of the key drivers
of our success, and our learning and
development programme is crucial to
upskilling our people, retaining top talent
and attracting new candidates in an
increasingly competitive marketplace.
We have a loyal, skilled and experienced
team who have helped us deliver the
initial stages of our transformation plan
and we rely on our ability to attract,
engage and retain talent to meet our
objectives.
How we are mitigating the risk
Our One TR initiative will help us deliver
our vision across the organisation and
embed our culture supported by new
values.
We are creating a direct alignment
between our company culture and our
reward strategy.
We have adopted a top‑down approach
to internal communication through CEO
videos, regional and functional flow‑down
of information through the Executive
Leadership Team and Senior Leadership
Teams, which supports the alignment of
staff with strategic goals and objectives.
We continue to engage with our teams
through site visits, engagement surveys,
our Employee Voice and whistleblowing
programme, which are supported through
the appointment of our Designated
Non‑Executive Director for workforce
engagement.
What’s changed
We have started to reshape the
organisation to align with our business
strategy, creating a structure of four
regional leadership teams, supported by
six central enabling functions.
The results of our FY24 engagement
survey showed a reduced score, which
was expected based on the restructuring
activities in the UK. Our talent
management and succession planning is
focused on senior and business critical
roles, and is the subject of review, and
to support our strategic priorities we
have brought in additional expertise in
key areas. In light of the organisational
changes and the changing shape of our
organisation, there is an increased insider
risk.
Risk owner: Global Transformation
andHRDirector
Materiality
Low Medium High
Risk appetite
Low Medium High
Likelihood
Possible Likely
Very
likely
Almost
certain
Impact
Individual Function Site Region Group
Read more about
CEO review page 6
Stakeholder engagement page 24
Our people page 39
74
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Our principal risks continued
Key to risks: Increase from 2023 No change Decrease from 2023
V
Link to viability
Failure to prevent harm in our facilities
V
Description
There is a risk of failure to protect our employees, resulting in personal injuries/death, reputational harm, increased insurance
premiums and other financial penalties and costs
Why we think it’s important
People are Trifast’s most important asset
and preventing harm to our team is a
moral obligation, and a legal requirement.
Poor performance can affect our ability
to operate efficiently, impacting on
employee retention, and resulting in
regulatory penalties and civil costs.
Process safety and personal injury
incidents at our sites can impact our
capability to service our internal and
external customers.
How we are mitigating the risk
As a part of One TR we are developing a
global approach to improving health and
safety standards and driving consistency
throughout the business.
We are developing accountability across
all our sites and regions, defining clear
objectives and targets for safety, whilst
promoting the ownership for safety
within our leadership and management
structure.
Increased performance tracking through
improved recording of lagging indicators.
Establishing appropriate leading
indicators to support proactive
improvement.
What’s changed
Supporting the health, safety and
wellbeing of our team continues to be a
core priority for our business. Over the
last 12 months our ‘Tone from the top’
has changed, increasing the focus and
prioritisation of health and safety within
the business.
Changes to our UK facilities over the
last 12 months include the set up of our
National Distribution Centre, and the use
of forward‑stocking locations.
A dedicated senior role has been created
to facilitate additional momentum and
ownership of H&S.
Risk owner: Global Environment -
Health&SafetyDirector
Materiality
Low Medium High
Risk appetite
Low Medium High
Likelihood
Possible Likely
Very
likely
Almost
certain
Impact
Individual Function Site Region Group
Read more about
Our culture and values page 11
Health, safety and wellbeing page 45
75
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Our principal risks continued
In accordance with provision 31 of the
2018 UK Corporate Governance Code, the
Directors have assessed the long‑term
viability of the Group over the three‑year
period to March 2027.
This assessment was to determine whether
there is a reasonable expectation that the
Group will be able to meet its liabilities as
they fall due over the specified period of
time. In assessing the Group, the Directors
considered:
• The prospects of the Group, taking into
account the potential impact of key risks
and uncertainties
• These risks are detailed on pages
67 to 75
• The Group’s current financial position,
as well as its financial projections in the
context of the Group’s cash and debt
facilities and associated covenants
• The financial position of the Group, its
cash flows and liquidity are highlighted
in the financial review on pages 28
to 35, the Group’s assessment on
going concern is detailed on page
168and169
• Its strategy and transformation
programmes
• The Group’s business activities and
strategy and other factors likely
to affect its future development,
performance and position are set out
in the strategic report on pages 10‑19
• The impact of CBAM and other
climate‑related risks on pages 58 to 62
The viability assessment period of three
years aligns with the Group’s forecasts,
the term of the RCF and availability period
of the UKEF – EDG facility (see banking
facilities section). It is also the period
reviewed by the Board in its strategic
planning process.
These financial projections are based on
a bottom‑up budgeting exercise for FY25
which has been approved by the Board
and a more top‑down view aligned to the
Group’s strategic objectives for FY26 and
FY27.
The Group’s base projections indicate that
the current cash and debt facilities and
expected future facility headroom remain
more than adequate to support the Group
over the next three years.
The Group’s financial covenants, tested on a
quarterly basis, for its banking facility are:
• Leverage: net debt to adjusted EBITDA,
excluding IFRS 16, of less than 3.0x
With the support of lenders and UKEF
we temporarily reduced interest cover to
3.25x for December 2023 and March 2024
quarterly covenant periods and post year
end formally agreed to amend the interest
cover covenant to:
• Up until 30 September 2025 covenant
period – 3.25x
• 31 December 2025 – 30 September 2026
covenant periods – 3.5x
• Thereafter it will return to the original
4.0x levels
Stress-testing
Management assessed the financial
impact of a number of severe but plausible
downside scenarios (both individually and
in combination) by overlaying them against
the three‑year business plan.
If future trading performance significantly
underperformed expectations, management
would maintain liquidity and continue in
operation by carefully managing the Group’s
cost base and working capital, taking
actions such as:
• More radical short‑term cost reduction
• Reducing capital expenditure
• Negotiating a further interest rate cover
amendment
• Accessing new external funding early
The viability base case has been subjected
to downside sensitivity analysis involving
flexing several of the underlying main
assumptions and sensitivities, considering
the principal risks and uncertainties set out
on pages 67 to 75.
76
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Viability statement
Stress – testing continued
Scenario
Associated
principal risks
Associated
climate‑related risks Level of severity tested
Reduced volume/loss
of a key customer
Volatile
macroenvironment
Sustainability and
climate change
Supply chain resilience
Supply chain disruption
Carbon footprint
of products
Market sector changes
33% reduction of a
specific revenue stream
Reduction in trading
levels across and
higher Group stock
holdings as a result of
supply chain issues
Volatile
macroenvironment
Sustainability and
climate change
(CBAM specifically)
Supply chain resilience
Carbon footprint of
manufacturing processes
Carbon footprint
of products
20% reduction of
trading in key region
with 10% higher stock
holding
Reduced margins in a
key sector
Volatile
macroenvironment
Sustainability and
climate change
Supply chain resilience
Product failure
Carbon Border
Adjustment Mechanism
Supply chain disruption
Carbon footprint of
manufacturing processes
Carbon footprint
of products
5% margin reduction in
our largest sector
Significant one‑off
expenditure (line stop
and obsolete stock)
Volatile
macroenvironment
Sustainability and
climate change
Compliance
Product failure
Supply chain disruption
Carbon footprint of
manufacturing processes
Carbon footprint
of products
£10.0m in exceptional
costs, with £7.6m
increase in net debt
Material increase in
working capital due to
supply chain issues
Volatile
macroenvironment
Sustainability and
climate change
Product failure
Supply chain resilience
Supply chain disruption Ten working day
increase for all sectors
Impact of Carbon
Border Adjustment
Mechanism (CBAM)
Sustainability and
climate change
Carbon border
adjustment mechanism
Cost of CBAM estimated
from current carbon
pricing forecasts
and current volumes
imported into Europe
Further information on CBAM included in the Climate‑related Financial Disclosures on
page58.
None of the above scenarios result in a breach of our leverage covenant, however, we would
breach our interest cover covenant in all scenarios during the three year assessment period,
other than the significant one‑off expenditure or the CBAM scenarios. In the event of an
interest cover breach, we would request another waiver from our banking partners, and if
granted this will have a financial cost but would not impact our ability to meet our liabilities.
We are focused on reducing our net debt and hedging interest rates to mitigate the risk.
We continue to address the interest rate risk by managing our net debt position and are
confident that we can reduce our working capital further in 2025. Our scenario testing
assumes a worse case position and does not assume a reduction in EURIBOR, SONIA
andSOFR.
To further determine the level of downside required before the Group would be at risk of
breaching its debt covenants, the Group applied reverse stress testing to our viability case,
which indicated the following:
• A fall of c.14% in revenue (assuming reduction in EBTIDA has an equal increase on net
debt) or an increase in net debt by >£25.0m would be required before a breach in the
leverage covenant
• A fall of c.10% in revenue or an increase of >£2.5m in interest cost would be required
before a breach in the interest cover covenant
At 31 March 2024, interest cover was 3.6x (FY23: 7.8x). Forecast projections show
headroom increasing on the covenants as we see the higher interest charge months fall out
of the rolling 12‑month calculation. There is also increased focus on cash efficiency to pay
down borrowings and reduce interest charge with additional projects being considered in
FY25 to further enhance cash efficiency.
Conclusion
After considering the risks identified and based on the assessments completed, the Directors
believe that there is a reasonable expectation that the Company will be able to continue to
operate and meet its liabilities as they fall due over the next three years. This longer‑term
assessment process supports the Directors’ statements on both viability and going concern.
The strategic report was approved by the Board of Directors on 26 July 2024 and signed
on its behalf by:
Serena Lang
Non‑Executive Chair
Trifast House, Bellbrook Park, Uckfield, East Sussex TN22 1QW
Company registration number: 01919797
77
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report
Governance Financial statements Additional information
Viability statement continued
Stakeholder engagement
The Board strives to ensure that we all
understand the views of the Company’s
stakeholders and that we incorporate those
views into our decision‑making process.
Throughout the year we undertook a range
of investor and shareholder meetings
on a variety of different topics, and we
look forward to further discussions with
you at our Annual General Meeting on
10September 2024. Clearly, with both
Iain and I being new to the Board, we
have ensured that we met as many TR
employees as possible when we have
visited our facilities and offices in Asia,
USA and Europe, and you can read more
about this on pages 24 and 40 (employee
engagement). Additionally, the Directors
have spent time engaging with other
stakeholders across our business, and you
can read more about this engagement on
pages 24 to 26.
Dear shareholder,
On behalf of the Board, I am pleased to
present the corporate governance report for
the year ended 31 March 2024.
The Board and its Committees had another
busy year, where we have supported both
management and Board changes, as well
as continuing to review and reframe all
aspects of our strategy and business model.
Our governance framework, described in
more detail on page 79, promotes robust
corporate governance processes and
ensures we have the necessary resources
in place for the Group to meet the strategic
objectives and measure performance
against them. We have set out some of the
most important decisions in FY24, including
the decision to review the strategy of the
Group on page 10.
The Board strives to ensure that we all understand
the views of the Company’s stakeholders
and that we incorporate those views into our
decision-making process
Serena Lang
Chair
Strategic report
Governance
Financial statements Additional information
78
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Chair’s introduction to governance
Board changes
We have made several changes to the
Board and Committee membership during
2023 and early 2024, bringing in new
perspectives and useful experience to
enrich our discussions and support on the
delivery of our strategy. I was delighted
to welcome both Nicholas Mills and
Laura Whyte as new Non‑Executives in
October2023 and March 2024 respectively,
and we welcome Iain Percival as Chief
Executive Officer in September 2023 and
Kate Ferguson as interim Chief Financial
Officer from February 2024. You can read
more about the appointment process
for Iain, Nicholas, Laura and Kate in the
Nomination Committee report on page 91.
We also said goodbye to Jonathan
Shearman, Claire Balmforth, Scott
MacMeekin and Darren Hayes‑Powell.
Iwould like to express my thanks to each
ofthem for their valuable contributions
to the Board over the course of their
respective tenures.
Board effectiveness
In 2023, the Board and Committees were
evaluated with the assistance of Gould
Consulting to ensure that we continue
to operate as effectively as possible
and to offer opportunities for further
enhancements. Given the Board changes
throughout the period, we have scheduled
to undertake a further review later in 2024.
Overall, I am very happy with the Board’s
input and contribution and feel comfortable
that as a collective unit, along with the
Committees, ensure robust governance
and oversight to the Company’s activities.
However, I always recognise there is room
for improvement, which is why we will
continue with our Board effectiveness
review later this year.
On behalf of the Board, I confirm that we
consider that this Annual Report, taken as a
whole, is fair, balanced and understandable
and provides the information necessary
to assess the Company’s position,
performance, business model and strategy.
Board and Committee framework
The Board
Nomination
Committee
Responsible
Business Steering
Committee
Network of
Champions
Audit & Risk
Committee
Executive
Leadership
Team (ELT)
Remuneration
Committee
Responsible
Business
Committee
Risk
Committee
Details of our Board Committees can
be found on the Company’s website
at www.trifast.com
Strategic report
Governance
Financial statements Additional information
79
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Chair’s introduction to governance continued
Conflicts of interest
The Company has a formal procedure
in place to manage the disclosure,
consideration, and if thought fit,
authorisation of potential conflicts of
interest. Each Director is aware of the
requirement to notify the Board, via the
Company Secretary, as soon as they
become aware of any potential future
conflict or any material change to a
pre‑existing authorisation. Upon receipt of
any such notification, the Board considers
each conflict situation separately on its
particular facts, in conjunction with the
rest of the potentially conflicted Director’s
duties under the Companies Act 2006.
The Board retains records of any decisions
taken, authorisations granted and the scope
of approvals given, and regularly reviews
conflict authorisations previously granted.
Nicholas Mills has declared his conflict on
the basis of his role at Harwood Capital
Management, a material shareholder in
the Company. This conflict is noted in
the minutes at the start of every meeting
attended by Nicholas, and he has agreed
to recuse himself from any discussion
concerning the relationship between
the Company and Harwood Capital
Management.
None of the other Non‑Executive Directors
has any material business or other
relationships with the Company or its
management.
Directors information and advice
The Company Secretary manages the
provision of accurate, timely and clear
information to the Board at appropriate
intervals in consultation with the Chair and
Chief Executive Officer and assists with
ensuring that the Board has the policies,
processes, time and resources it needs in
order to function effectively. In addition to
formal meetings, the Chair, Chief Executive
and Company Secretary all maintain regular
contact with Directors and work together
to ensure that the Board and Committee
governance processes remain fit for
purpose.
All Directors have access to the Company
Secretary, who is responsible for advising
the Board on all governance matters.
Additionally, all Directors have access
to independent professional advice at
the Company’s expenses if they judge it
necessary to discharge their responsibilities
as Directors.
Induction, training and development
All Directors receive a full, formal and
tailored induction programme upon joining
the Board, with the programme of sessions
personalised by the Company Secretary
to reflect the incoming Director’s skills,
experience, knowledge and role within the
Board and its Committees.
Serena Lang commenced her induction
following her appointment in August
2023, with a handover from Jonathan
Shearman, followed by a visit to the Asia
operations in September, various visits to
UK and European operations from October
to February 2024, and visiting the USA
operations in March 2024. Serena has also
met and spoken to most of the material
investors, analysts, the principal brokers
and other Company stakeholders including
external legal advisers and auditors.
Nicholas Mills received a comprehensive
company induction session from the
Company Secretary when he joined in
October 2023, and has had the opportunity
to visit TR Italy (May 2024) and will visit the
National Distribution Centre in June 2024.
Laura Whyte had a comprehensive
handover from the outgoing Remuneration
Committee Chair, followed by a corporate
induction from the Company Secretary.
Laura also received a specific focus on
executive remuneration matters including
meetings with the Committee’s UK
remuneration consultants, PwC.
Under the direction of the Chair, the
Company Secretary is responsible for
arranging Board training throughout
the year and assisting with professional
development as required. Training is built
into our annual Board agenda at regular
intervals and is facilitated by both internal
specialists and external advisers. The
menu of topics is carefully designed to
develop and update Directors’ knowledge
and capabilities, with a view to enhancing
Director effectiveness on the Board and its
Committees.
During the year, the Board received
briefings on a variety of topics, including
key legal and regulatory developments,
safety developments, market developments
and the UK takeover regime.
Strategic report
Governance
Financial statements Additional information
80
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Chair’s introduction to governance continued
Compliance with the UK Corporate Governance Code 2018
Throughout the year ended 31 March 2024, the Company complied with all provisions of the UK Corporate Governance Code 2018 (the ‘Code’).
The Company acknowledges the revised UK Corporate Governance Code 2024, applicable to accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2025, with the exception of Provision
29 which is applicable for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2026. During FY25, we will review the Code and comply or explain as appropriate.
The Company’s auditor, BDO, is required to review whether this statement reflects the Company’s compliance with those provisions of the Code specified for their review by the
Financial Conduct Authority’s Listing Rules and to report if it does not reflect such compliance. No such report has been made.
Section Compliance Read more
Board leadership and Company purpose The Board has established a clear purpose, set of values and strategy and
through its governance framework ensures these and the Company’s culture
are aligned
Pages 78 to 84
Division of responsibilities The structure of the Board and its Committees brings balance, expertise and a
comprehensive understanding of the business at all levels
Pages 79, 85 to 87 and 94 to 95
Composition, succession and evaluation The Board is sufficiently well equipped to ensure that the Group continues to be
governed by suitably qualified people with a combination of skills, experience
and knowledge to effectively lead the business
Pages 88 to 93
Audit, risk and internal control The Board has established clear policies and procedures to ensure the integrity
and compliance of the financial and narrative information. Our established
risk management and internal controls framework continues to be developed
and we have implemented key mitigation actions, lowering our residual risk
significantly in some areas
Pages 96 to 103
Remuneration There is a clear policy on executive remuneration that is aligned to the
Company’s strategy and includes measures on the Company’s ESG targets
Pages 104 to 146
Strategic report
Governance
Financial statements Additional information
81
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Chair’s introduction to governance continued
Length of service
Appointed to the Board on
20September2023
Key areas of expertise
Iain holds a BSc (Hons) Mechanical
Engineering degree and, over a 30‑year
career, has worked in divisional leadership
positions within a number of international
manufacturing businesses. An experienced
industrialist, Iain has also gained significant
experience within transformational change
environments with a key focus on cost
down, supply chain productivity initiatives,
effective supply chain management and
manufacturingefficiencies
Length of service
Appointed to the Board on 10 August 2023
Key areas of expertise
Serena is an experienced FTSE Chair and
Board member. Her executive career spanning
more than 20 years across multi‑sector
industries both in the UK and internationally
has allowed Serena to develop her skills and
understanding of commercial business, at
varying stages of growth covering strategy,
transformation and M&A
Other directorships
Non‑Executive Director at Henry Boot PLC and
Ainscough Crane Hire Limited
CC
Length of service
Appointed as interim Chief Financial Officer
on22 February 2024; joined Trifast on
21August 2023
Key areas of expertise
Kate holds a business degree gained in
Australia where she majored in accountancy,
business law and taxation. She qualified as
an accountant in 1996 (Australia) and 2008
respectively (England & Wales). Over a
20‑year career she has held a number of senior
financial roles across a variety of industries,
both private and plc entities. She also has
knowledge of IT and administration
Length of service
4 years; appointed to the Board on
30July2020
Key areas of expertise
Chartered accountant with extensive
experience in industry both in the UK and
internationally. Retired in 2019 as Group
Finance Director at Spectris plc
Other directorships
Senior Independent Non‑Executive Director
at Breedon Group plc (Audit & Risk Chair),
Non‑Executive Director at discoverIE Group
plc (Audit & Risk Chair) and Kier Group plc
(Audit & Risk Chair). Clive also holds a school
governor position with St. Helen’s School,
Northwood, London, and has Directorships
with St. Helen’s Enterprises Limited
Committee memberships
Nomination Committee
Audit & Risk Committee
Remuneration Committee
Responsible Business Committee
C
Committee Chair
Chair | 14%
Executive | 29%
Independent
NED | 43%
NED | 14%
Male | 57%
Female | 43%
Not specified | 0%
Board
composition
as at 1 April 2024
Board
gender
as at 1 April 2024
Serena
Lang
Independent
Non‑Executive
Chair (53)
Iain
Percival
Chief Executive
Officer (56)
Clive
Watson
Senior
Independent
Non‑Executive
Director (66)
Kate
Ferguson
Interim Chief
Financial
Officer (51)
C
C
Strategic report
Governance
Financial statements Additional information
82
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
The Board
Length of service
Appointed to the Board on 11 March 2024
Key areas of expertise
Laura, having worked in a number of
organisations within the listed, private
and charitable sectors, is an experienced
operational and Non‑Executive Director
with a strong focus on brand, customer
and workforce engagement and
responsiblebusiness
Other directorships
Non‑Executive Director at Macfarlane Group
plc and Capital and Regional plc
Length of service
Appointed to the Board on 3 January 2023
Key areas of expertise
Louis has had an executive career within
the building industry both in the UK and
internationally. He has significant commercial
knowledge of manufacturing and supply,
strategic planning and M&A. Louis was
previously CEO at Tyman plc (2010‑2019), and
prior to that held senior management roles
with Kingspan Group plc, Baxi Group Ltd,
Lafarge SA and Caradon plc
Other directorships
Non‑Executive Director at Accys Technologies
plc, Ibstock plc and Howden Joinery Group plc
(appointed June 2023)
Length of service
Appointed to the Board on 20 October 2023
Key areas of expertise
Nicholas worked at New York based Gabelli
Asset Management from 2014‑2019 where
he focused on equity research, investments,
merger arbitrage strategies and marketing
closed‑end funds. In 2019 Nicholas returned to
the UK to join Harwood Capital LLP
Other directorships
Nicholas is a fund manager and Director
of Harwood Capital LLP, who are a current
shareholder in Trifast. In addition to his
executive roles within the Harwood Group,
Nicholas is a Non‑Executive Director with
AIM listed Hargreaves Services plc and NOIX
Groupplc
Thank you to outgoing Board
members during FY24
We would like to thank each Director for
their service and contribution and wish
them and their families well for thefuture.
Jonathan Shearman
Independent Non‑Executive Chair
Resigned 14 September 2023
Scott Mac Meekin
Interim Chief Executive Office
Resigned from the Board 19 September
2023; left the Company 19 February 2024
Darren Hayes-Powell
Chief Financial Officer
Left 21 February 2024
Claire Balmforth
Independent Non‑Executive Director
Retired on 1 April 2024
Louis
Eperjesi
Independent
Non‑Executive
Director (62)
Laura
Whyte
Independent
Non‑Executive
Director &
Designated
NED (65)
Nicholas
Mills
Non‑Executive
Director (33)
CC
Board
tenure
as at 1 April 2024
Board
age
as at 1 April 2024
<40 | 14%
40‑50 | 0%
51‑60 | 43%
>60 | 43%
<1 year | 72%
1–3 years | 14%
>3 years | 14%
Christopher Morgan
Company Secretary
Length of service
2 years; appointed as Company Secretary on
4 April 2022
Key areas of expertise
A Fellow of the Chartered Governance
Institute and solicitor, Christopher has held
senior governance, legal and compliance roles
at FTSE listed/equivalent companies in Europe
and Asia, working across sectors in energy,
engineering and automotive
Compliance
The Board recognises the importance of
its composition and diversity and remains
committed to good corporate governance.
Webelieve that a wide range of knowledge, skills
and experience are among the essential drivers
of Board effectiveness. The Board continue
to seek to specifically meet the diversity and
gender targets for UK Listed entities.
Trifast believes the structure of the Board
and its Committees brings balance and deep
understanding of the business at both Board
and operational levels.
Strategic report
Governance
Financial statements Additional information
83
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
The Board continued
In addition to our Chief Executive Officer
and interim Chief Financial Officer, the
Executive Leadership Team comprises
the Regional Managing Directors, Central
Enabling Function Directors and the
Company Secretary.
The teams’ composition allows the business
to be sufficiently agile and ensure that key
opportunities and operational decisions
are handled in a more effective and
appropriatemanner.
See page 82 for biography. See page 82 for biography.
Kate
Ferguson
Interim Chief
Financial
Officer (51)
Dan
Jack
Chief Commercial
Officer & MD
UK & Ireland
(50)
Iain
Percival
Chief
Executive
Officer (56)
Andy
Nuttall
MD Europe
(58)
Jeremy
Scholefield
MD Asia
(56)
Giovanni
Cespedes
MD North
America (47)
Oshin
Cassidy
Interim
Transformation
& HR Director
(57)
Christopher
Morgan
Company
Secretary (53)
Colin
Coddington
Global
Technology
Director (55)
Read more about our Executive
Leadership Team on our website at
www.trfastenings.com/company/
leadership/executive-committee
Female | 22% Male | 78%
<40 | 0%
40–50 | 22%
51–60 | 78%
>60 | 0%
Gender
as at 1 April 2024
Age
as at 1 April 2024
Strategic report
Governance
Financial statements Additional information
84
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
The Executive Leadership Team
The Board
One of the Board’s principal responsibilities
is the creation and delivery of sustainable
shareholder value by promoting the
long‑term success of the Company and
ensuring robust corporate governance.
The Board also determines the strategic
direction of the Group along with
their continued review of financial and
operational matters. The Board has a formal
schedule of matters specifically reserved for
it, which includes:
• Development and approval of the Group’s
strategic aims and objectives
• Approval of annual operating and capital
expenditure budgets
• Oversight of the Group’s operations
• Approval of the Group’s announcements
and financial statements
• Approval of new bank facilities or
significant changes to existing facilities
• Declaration and recommendation of
dividends
• Approval of major acquisitions, disposals
and capital expenditure
• Succession planning and appointments
to the Board and its Committees
• Review of the Group’s corporate
governance arrangements and reviewing
the performance of the Board and
Committees
• Maintenance of internal control and risk
management systems
• Approval of the division of responsibilities
between the Chair, Chief Executive and
other Executive Directors and the terms
of reference of the Board Committees
Chair
Serena Lang is Chair of the Board. The Chair
sets the Board’s agenda and promotes a
strong culture of engagement, challenge
and debate. Serena plays an important role
in investor relations and regularly liaises
with shareholders.
The Chair’s terms of reference are:
• Chairing Board meetings, setting
agendas in consultation with the Chief
Executive Officer and encouraging the
Directors to participate actively in Board
discussions
• Leading the performance evaluation of
the Board, its Committees and individual
Directors
• Promoting high standards of corporate
governance
• Ensuring timely and accurate distribution
of information to the Directors
• Ensuring effective communication with
shareholders
• Periodically holding meetings with fellow
Non‑Executive Directors without the
Executive Directors being present
• Establishing an effective working
relationship with the Chief Executive
Officer and Company Secretary by
providing support and advice whilst
respecting executive responsibility
Chief Executive Officer
Iain Percival is responsible for the
day‑to‑day management of all the Group’s
activities and the implementation and
delivery of the Board’s strategic objectives.
He promotes strong cultural values and
standards and maintains good relationships
and communications with investors and
other stakeholders. He ensures operational
policies drive appropriate behaviours, leads
the Executive Leadership Team, including
talent development and succession
planning, and manages overall business
performance.
Company Secretary
Christopher Morgan is the Company
Secretary and is responsible for governance,
regulatory and legal compliance as well
as assisting the Chair in preparation for,
and the effective running of, Board and
Committee meetings. The Company
Secretary facilitates Board and Senior
Management inductions, arranges Board
training and assists with professional
development as required. He also ensures
Directors have access to independent
professional advice, at the Company’s
expense, where they judge it necessary to
discharge their responsibilities as Directors
of the Company.
Senior Independent Director
Clive Watson, as the Senior Independent
Director and Chair of the Audit & Risk
Committee, acts as a conduit for all
Directors, providing support, advice
and guidance when required. He acts
as a sounding board for the Chair, leads
(at least annually) discussions amongst
Non‑Executive Directors on the Chair’s
performance and on succession planning
forthe Chair.
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Governance
Financial statements Additional information
85
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Corporate governance report
Board meetings
There were 11 formal Board meetings during the year. All meetings were attended by all eligible Directors.
Formal meetings are supplemented, when circumstances dictate, by other meetings, often making use of secure online facilities.
Inaddition, the Chair and Non‑Executive Directors have met during the year without the Executive Directors.
Apr
23
May
23
Jun
23
Jul
23
Sep
23
Oct
23
Nov
23
Dec
23
Jan
24
Feb
24
Mar
24 Attendance
1
Serena Lang
2
100%
Iain Percival
3
100%
Kate Ferguson
4
100%
Clive Watson
100%
Louis Eperjesi
100%
Laura Whyte
5
100%
Nicholas Mills
6
100%
Jonathan Shearman
7
100%
Scott Mac Meekin
8
100%
Darren Hayes‑Powell
9
100%
Claire Balmforth
10
100%
1. Attendance percentage of meetings attended whilst serving on the Board
2. Serena Lang was appointed as Chair on 10 August 2023
3. Iain Percival was appointed as CEO on 20 September 2023
4. Kate Ferguson was appointed interim CFO on 22 February 2024
5. Laura Whyte was appointed on 11 March 2024
6. Nicholas Mills was appointed on 20 October 2023
7. Jonathan Shearman resigned as Chair on 14 September 2023
8. Scott Mac Meekin was interim CEO until 19 September 2023
9. Darren Hayes‑Powell left as CFO on 21 February 2024
10. Claire Balmforth retired on 1 April 2024
Board composition
During FY24, there were a number of
changes to members of the Board. On
1 April 2024, the Board comprised an
independent Non‑Executive Chair, two
Executive Directors and four Non‑Executive
Directors, three of which are considered to
be independent. Details of the Directors’
remuneration and terms of appointment are
set out in the Directors’ remuneration report
on pages 104 to 130.
Biographical details of the Directors are
included on pages 82 and 83.
The Executive Directorships are full‑time
positions. The role of Chair requires a
commitment of approximately two days
per month, and Non‑Executive Directors
commit two days per month. All the
Non‑Executive Directors have confirmed
their ability to meet such commitment.
EachNon‑Executive Director is required to
inform the Board of any changes to their
other appointments.
The contracts of appointment of
Non‑Executive Directors are available
for inspection on request to the
CompanySecretary.
Re-election
All Directors of the Board are subject to
election by the shareholders at the first
AGM following their appointment by the
Board and all Directors will also stand for
re‑election annually at the AGM.
Strategic report
Governance
Financial statements Additional information
86
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Corporate governance report continued
Board appointments
The appointment, replacement and
powers of the Directors are governed by
the Company’s Articles of Association,
the UK Corporate Governance Code, the
Companies Act, prevailing legislation and
resolutions passed at the Annual General
Meeting (AGM) or other general meetings of
the Company.
The Company has separate posts for Chair
and Chief Executive. The Chair leads the
Board and the Chief Executive is responsible
for the management of the Company,
implementing policies and strategies
determined by the Board.
Each Director’s availability and time
commitment to the Company is essential
in performing their role effectively. Prior
to any new appointment, the Board would
review other demands on a Director’s time
to ensure they have sufficient capacity to
commit to the role. A Director must seek
Board approval prior to undertaking any
additional external appointments.
Appropriate and relevant training is
provided to the Executive Directors as and
when required. Non‑Executive Directors are
responsible for their own relevant learning
and development activity and inform the
Nomination Committee Chair and Company
Secretary of any training undertaken.
The contracts of appointment of
Non‑Executive Directors are available for
inspection on request to the Company
Secretary.
The Chair (Serena Lang) and Senior
Independent Non‑Executive Director (Clive
Watson) confirm that, following formal
performance evaluation, the individuals
seeking re‑election continue to be effective
in contributing to the long‑term success of
the Group and demonstrate commitment to
the role.
Committee responsibilities
The Board formally delegates responsibility
to four Committees: the Nomination,
Responsible Business, Audit & Risk and
Remuneration Committees. Full terms of
reference for each Committee can be found
on our website.
Status reports from each of these
Committees are found later in this report.
Internal audit and risk management
The Board, via the Audit & Risk Committee,
formally considers the requirement for
internal audit on an annual basis as part
of its terms of reference. The Board and
Audit & Risk Committee agreed to formally
establish an internal audit function for the
business, and this was set up in May 2023.
Following the formation of the Risk
department in 2022, we have continued
to further develop our risk management
and controls framework to support our
risk appetite and culture. Working with
the operational owners of risk, we ensure
mitigation actions are effective, and we
continue to review going forward to include
our functional, regional and compliance
teams.
Going concern and viability
After making enquiries, the Directors have
reasonable expectations that the Group
has adequate resources to continue in
operational existence for the foreseeable
future. For this reason, the Company
continues toadopt the going concern basis
in preparing the financial statements.
Further information on going concern is
included in the basis of preparation in note 1.
Further information on the viability
statement and its conclusion is included
onpages 76 and 77.
By order of the Board
Christopher Morgan
Company Secretary
26 July 2024
Strategic report
Governance
Financial statements Additional information
87
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Corporate governance report continued
Role of the Committee
The Committee is responsible for leading
the process, and making recommendations
to the Board, for Board appointments,
ensuring there is a formal, rigorous and
transparent procedure. The composition
of the Board is regularly reviewed and
refreshed, taking into account the length
of service of the Board as a whole, so
that it is effective and able to operate in
the best interests of shareholders. The
Committee ensure there are succession
plans in placefor both Board and Senior
Management roles.
Members
• Serena Lang (Chair)
• Clive Watson
• Louis Eperjesi
• Laura Whyte
Serena Lang
Chair of the Nomination Committee
Meeting attendance
May
23
Jun
23
17 Jul
23
21 Jul
23
Aug
23
Sep
23
Oct
23
Nov
23
Feb
24 Attendance
1
Serena Lang
2
100%
Clive Watson
100%
Louis Eperjesi
100%
Laura Whyte
3
—%
Jonathan Shearman
4
67%
Claire Balmforth
5
89%
Read more on
page 22 to 26
FY24 highlights
• Led process for appointment
of Chair
• Led process for appointment
of Chief Executive Officer
• Led process for appointment of
Remuneration Committee Chair
Stakeholder engagement
• Engaged with various internal and
external stakeholders, including the
Group’s corporate brokers, in relation
to appointment of new Chief Executive
Officer
• Attended AGM in September 2023 and
discussed Committee’s activities with
shareholders
1. Attendance percentage of meetings
attended whilst serving on the
Committee
2. Serena Lang was appointed as Chair
on 10 August 2023
3. Laura Whyte was appointed on
11 March 2024
4. Jonathan Shearman was unable to
attend the meetings in July due to
prior personal commitments.
He resigned as Chair on
14September 2023
5. Claire Balmforth was unable to
attend the meeting in August due
to prior personal commitments. She
retired as Non‑Executive Director on
1 April 2024
Strategic report
Governance
Financial statements Additional information
88
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Nomination Committee report
Board composition, skills and attributes
At Trifast, we recognise the importance
of the Board and its Committees having
a combination of skills, experience and
knowledge to ensure we have an effective
and agile Board, which is well‑placed to
promote long‑term sustainable success
of the Company, generating value
for shareholders and contributing to
widersociety.
The Nomination Committee reviews the
skills, attributes and diversity represented
by the Directors on the Board and
determine whether the existing Board
composition remains appropriate to achieve
the Group’s purpose and strategy.
The Nomination Committee does this by
maintaining a skills matrix that tracks both
the skills and experience needed currently,
and those future‑facing attributes the Board
intends to develop or acquire over the
longer terms as it executes its strategy.
This matrix is then reviewed in conjunction
with individual Director tenure to assist with
the Board appointments and associated
succession planning.
The most recently approved version of our
Board skills matrix is set out below. The
charts that follow describe various elements
of diversity across the Board, and are
supplemented by our disclosures under the
UK Listing Rules.
The Nomination Committee is satisfied that
the Board and its Committees have the
right combination of skills, experience and
knowledge amongst a group of individuals
that embody many aspects of diversity.
Board skills matrix
The Board skills
and attributes
matrix is reviewed
by the Nomination
Committeeannually,
considering the future
requirements
of the Board.
Independence
Industrial/engineering
Distribution operating
model
ESG
Banking & finance
Mergers & acquisitions
Audit & risk
International
Leadership
Remuneration
People/HR
Strategy/business
transformation & change
IT/Cyber
Serena Lang
Iain Percival
Kate Ferguson
Clive Watson
Louis Eperjesi
Laura Whyte
Nicholas Mills
Christopher Morgan
(Company Secretary)
Dear shareholder,
I am pleased to present an overview of
the Nomination Committee’s work during
the year ended 31 March 2024. It has been
a busy year for the Committee as valued
colleagues departed and we welcomed
new Board members.
Two of our Non‑Executive
Directors, Jonathan Shearman and
ClaireBalmforth, left the Board in the
year. Scott MacMeekin, who had been
a Non‑Executive Director for nine
years before stepping in as the interim
Chief Executive Officer in February
2023, stepped down from the Board in
September 2023, when we were pleased
to welcome Iain Percival as Chief Executive
Officer. I am very grateful to Claire,
Jonathan and Scott for their insight and
important contributions to the Board and
its Committees during their tenures, and
they leave with our best wishes for their
future endeavours.
In October 2023, we were pleased to
welcome Nicholas Mills and in March
2024, Laura Whyte as new Non‑Executive
Directors, with Laura becoming the
Remuneration Committee Chair with effect
from 1 April 2024. We also welcomed Kate
Ferguson as interim Chief Financial Officer,
following Darren Hayes‑Powell departure
in February 2024, and you can read more
on the recruitment process for this role on
page 92.
As ever, the Nomination Committee
remains dedicated to recruiting globally
recognised, industry‑leading talent, so
that Trifast colleagues see strong diverse
leaders – at both Board and Senior
Management level – who look and sound
like them. In various roles I have been
privileged to hold, including serving as
Trifast’s Chair, I have seen and embraced
the value and importance of visible
rolemodels.
If you wish to discuss any aspects of the
Nomination Committee report, or our
activities generally, with me, then please
join our AGM on 10 September 2024 at
our National Distribution Centre in Walsall.
You can also join via the Investor Meet
Company platform or send any questions
for me to our dedicated email address:
companysecretariat@trifast.com.
Serena Lang
Chair
26 July 2024
Strategic report
Governance
Financial statements Additional information
89
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Nomination Committee report continued
Board and Executive Leadership diversity
In accordance with the UK Listing Rules, the tables below set out our gender and ethnic representation at Board and Executive Leadership Team level.
Gender representation: Board and Executive Leadership Team as at 1 April 2024
Board ELT
Number of Board
members
Percentage of the
Board
Number of senior
positions on the
Board (CEO, CFO,
SID and Chair)
Number in executive
management
Percentage
of executive
management
Women 3 43%% 2 1 14%%
Men 4 57% 2% 5 72%%
Other categories — — — — —
Not specified/prefer not to say — — — 1 14%
Ethnic representation: Board and Executive Leadership Team as at 1 April 2024
Board ELT
Number of Board
members
Percentage of the
Board
Number of senior
positions on the
Board (CEO, CFO,
SID and Chair)
Number in executive
management
Percentage
of executive
management
White British or other White (including minority white groups) 7 100%% 4 7 100%%
Mixed/Multiple ethnic groups — — — — —
Asian/Asian British — — — — —
Black/African/Caribbean/Black British — — — — —
Other ethnic group, including Arab — — — — —
Not specified/prefer not to say — — — — —
Our approach to data collection
Gender and ethnicity data relating to the Board and Executive Leadership Team are collected on an annual basis applying a process managed by the Company Secretary in conjunction with the HR function. Each
individual is requested to complete an identical questionnaire on a strictly confidential and voluntary basis, through which the individual self‑reports on their ethnicity and gender identity or states that they do
not wish to report such data. Consent is provided for data collection and processing of that data in accordance with the Company’s data protection policy.
The criteria of the standard form questionnaire are fully aligned to the definitions specified in the UK Listing Rules, with individuals required to specify:
a. Self‑reported gender identity – selection from the following categories (i) man; (ii) woman; (iii) other category (please specify) and (iv) not specified/prefer not to say
b. Self‑reported ethnic background – selection from the following categories as designated by the UK Office of National Statistics: (i) White British or other White; (ii) Mixed/Multiple ethnic groups; (iii) Asian/
Asian British; (iv) Black/African /Caribbean/Black British; (v) other ethnic group, including Arab; and (vi) not specified/prefer not to say
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Nomination Committee report continued
Board appointment process
The Nomination Committee leads the process for appointments to the Board, ensuring that there is a formal, robust and transparent procedure in place for each appointment.
Allappointments are based on merit and objective criteria, with candidates being evaluated to assess their suitability across a number of areas, including skills, education, experience,
background and independence. Within this context, due regard is also given to promoting diversity of gender, social and ethnic backgrounds, cognitive and personal strengths, and
thebenefits that this can bring to the Board and its Committees.
The specific appointment process followed during the year in relation to the appointment of the Chief Executive Officer, Iain Percival, is described on page92. Regarding the Chair and
Non‑Executive Directors, this is described in more detail in this table.
Non-Executive Director appointment process
Candidate specification In each case, the Nomination Committee began by considering the current Board composition, existing skills and attributes matrix and tenure of individual
Directors. Given the intimation from both Jonathan Shearman and Claire Balmforth to step down from the Board, it was recognised that replacements with
prior chair or senior independent director and remuneration committee experience would be needed. It was also recognised that an additional director
with shareholder and financial investment experience would provide additional strength to the Board
Engagement of
professional advisers
and candidate review
process
In light of the global approach and strong record, leading executive search firm, Russell Reynolds Associates (RRA), was engaged to assist with profiling
candidates for the Chair position. RRA was a founding member of the Voluntary Code of Conduct for Executive Search Firms and have been accredited
by the Enhanced Code as a leading UK search firm that is achieving over 30% female FTSE 350 board placements. Save for its involvement in prior
non‑executive and executive searches, RRA does not have any connection with Trifast plc or individual Directors
Later in the year, Women on Boards was engaged to assist with profiling candidates for the Remuneration Committee Chair position. Women on Boards
does not have any connection with Trifast plc or individual Directors
Interviews and
associated due diligence
Shortlisted candidates were then interviewed by the Chair, with high potential candidates then being invited to meet with other Board members, including
the Chief Executive Officer, Senior Independent Director and Chair of the Committees
Recommendation
and approval
In July 2023, the Nomination Committee unanimously decided to recommend that Serena Lang’s appointment to the Board as Chair elect. Serena
was selected on the basis that she had strong experience on listed company boards and committees, as well as wide‑ranging knowledge in company
transformations and the industrial and manufacturing sectors, by virtue of her executive career. Following Jonathan Shearman’s confirmation to retire from
the Board in August 2023, it was determined that Serena join the Board as Chair elect and following a rigorous handover that she assume the role of Chair
from 14September 2023
In February 2024, the Nomination Committee also unanimously decided to recommend Laura Whyte’s appointment to the Board. Laura’s excellent
experience in human resources, workplace culture, remuneration committees and the distribution business, in addition to her international experience
through her executive career, were all factors influencing the Committee’s decision. Following Claire Balmforth’s confirmation to retire in March 2024,
itwas determined that Laura join the Board and Remuneration Committee Chair elect and assume the role of Committee Chair from 1 April 2024
Induction Following their appointments, both Serena and Laura, and also that of Nicholas Mills in October 2023, each have undertaken a comprehensive and tailored
induction programme. Further details of our induction process can be found on page 80
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Nomination Committee report continued
Board appointment process continued
Chief Executive Officer appointment process
Candidate specification The Nomination Committee commenced the search by articulating the key qualities for a Chief Executive Officer at Trifast. The specification articulated
a range of expectations in terms of strategic, leadership, operational and technical experience, as well as reflecting the personal attributes needed to
develop a collaborative and high‑performing team
Engagement of
professional advisers
and candidate review
process
The Nomination Committee engaged leading executive search firm, Russell Reynolds Associates (RRA), to assist with evaluating both internal and external
talent against the qualities identified. Having engaged with RRA in the past and given their global approach and strong track record, they provided
support to the Board in profiling candidates. RRA was a founding member of the Voluntary Code of Conduct for Executive Search Firms and have been
accredited by the Enhanced Code as a leading UK search firm. Save for its involvement in prior non‑executive and executive searches, RRA does not have
any connection with Trifast plc or individual Directors
Longlist and shortlist
review
RRA provided an initial longlist that was presented to the Committee in April 2023, encompassing a wide range of potential candidates from diverse
personal and professional backgrounds. The Committee was able to create a shortlist of candidates shortly after this review
Interviews Initial interviews were led by the Chair and one other Non‑Executive Director. Preferred candidates were then asked to complete additional interviews
with the Senior Independent Director and other Non‑Executive Directors. The interview process spanned the summer and autumn with regular Board
communication during this period
Due diligence and
references
Preferred candidates then completed an assessment run by River Leadership, designed to evaluate competencies, working style, drivers and experiences.
RRA assisted with the usual pre‑employment due diligence checks as well as facilitating references, and the views of the Company’s brokers were also
sought. River Leadership does not have any connection with Trifast plc or individual Directors
Recommendation and
approval
Following this robust and rigorous process, the Nomination Committee, working in tandem with the Remuneration Committee in relation to the financial
package, unanimously decided to recommend Iain Percival’s appointment to the Board for approval in August 2023. Iain was selected due to his strong
experience and leadership qualities. In particular, Iain’s significant experience of business transformation was assessed as enabling Iain to make an
immediate contribution to Trifast
Induction Following his appointment, Iain undertook a comprehensive and tailored induction programme, including a detailed handover from the interim Chief
Executive Officer, Scott Mac Meekin. This included visiting the Asia business together in the first week of his appointment. Further details of our induction
programme are found on page 80
The Company is currently following a similar approach in the recruitment process for the Chief Financial Officer. Russell Reynolds Associates were instructed in March 2024.
KateFerguson is performing the role of interim Chief Financial Officer, and her capabilities were assessed by the Chief Executive Officer, Chair of the Audit & Risk Committee
and Chair before she was appointed as interim.
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Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Nomination Committee report continued
Election and re-election of Directors
The Company will submit all eligible
Directors for re‑election, and in the case of
Serena Lang, Iain Percival, Laura Whyte and
Nicholas Mills, election for the first time at
the Company’s Annual General Meeting in
September 2024.
As part of making any recommendation
to the Board in respect of elections or
re‑elections, the Nomination Committee
assesses each Director, including
considering their performance on the Board
and its Committees, the findings of the
Board evaluation review, their attendance
record during the year and their other time
commitments outside of Trifast, and their
contribution to the long‑term sustainable
success of the Company. For Non‑Executive
Directors, the Committee also considers
whether each individual Director continues
to be considered independent for the
purposes of the UK Corporate Governance
Code.
Nomination Committee effectiveness
The Nomination Committee’s performance
was reviewed in 2023, as part of the Board
performance review process, facilitated by
Gould Consulting, details of which are set
out on page 79.
The Committee continues to fulfil its
responsibilities effectively and will be
focusing particularly on performance
reviews and succession planning into
2024/25.
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Nomination Committee report continued
Members
• Louis Eperjesi (Chair)
• Serena Lang
• Iain Percival
• Clive Watson
• Laura Whyte
Louis Eperjesi
Chair of the Responsible
BusinessCommittee
May
23
Nov
23
Mar
24 Attendance
1
Louis Eperjesi (Chair) 100%
Serena Lang
2
100%
Iain Percival
3
100%
Clive Watson
100%
Laura Whyte
4
100%
Jonathan Shearman
5
100%
Scott Mac Meekin
100%
Darren Hayes‑Powell
6
100%
Claire Balmforth
7
100%
1. Attendance percentage of meetings attended
whilst serving on the Committee
2. Serena Lang was appointed as Chair on
10 August 2023
3. Iain Percival was appointed as CEO on
20September 2023
4. Laura Whyte was appointed on 11 March 2024
5. Jonathan Shearman resigned as Chair on
14 September 2023
6. Darren Hayes‑Powell left as CFO on
21 February 2024
7. Claire Balmforth retired on 1 April 2024
Role of the Committee
The role of the Responsible Business
Committee is to ensure the understanding
and effective implementation of the
sustainability strategy and how it relates to
the broader corporate purpose and vision as
well as forming part of the Group’s culture.
The Committee also works and liaises
with other Board Committees to integrate
sustainability in everything we do.
FY24 highlights
• Employment survey engagement and
feedback
• Working with RSM to develop a transition
plan
• Sustainability and CBAM incorporated in
our supplier audit questionnaires and the
work continues
• Initial engineering trials using 100%
recycled materials, whilst maintaining
acceptable product performance, have
been successful
• Increased Scope 3 emissions reporting
from purchased goods and services and
a commuter survey
Areas of focus for FY25
• Updating our sustainability strategy to
align with the new business strategy
• Continued commitment to carbon
emission reduction from our operations
and facilities
• Develop a sustainability supply chain
strategy
• Develop a diversity and inclusivity plan
• Commence audit of all governance
policies in the Code of Conduct
• Further employee training in modern
slavery, anti‑bribery and corruption and
whistleblowing
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Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Responsible Business Committee report
This year has seen further progress with
our sustainability roadmap. Following my
appointment as Committee Chair in May
2023, I have collaborated closely with the
Steering Committee to commence the
development of the sustainability strategy
and transition plan.
Being a ‘Responsible Business’ (thus the
Committee name change) and through our
sustainability agenda, we have continued
to elevate the work of the Committee and
Company with all our key stakeholders
and increasingly drive our decisions and
actions going forward. It is critical that the
Responsible Business Committee listen to all
feedback from employees and the experts,
both internally and externally, and that we
continue to incorporate insights and advice
to further inform our roadmap.
The Committee met three times this year
and focused specifically on reviewing
the progress and performance of the
Company’s activities, as well as receiving
updates on local projects, engineering
initiatives and climate‑related risks and
opportunities.
The Committee continue to support the
strong and collaborative sustainability and
governance framework of committees
and networks, which is set out in the
diagram below. The Steering Committee
is operationally focused and comprises of
representatives from engineering, supply
chain, governance, risk, HR and EHS. This
group met six times this year to review new
regulations (CBAM, Corporate Sustainability
Reporting Directive (CSRD), monitored
progress on the TCFD and climate change
risk reporting and continued to develop the
roadmap working alongside the regional
Network of Champions.
They also co‑ordinated a Group‑wide
employee commuter survey, which will
support our Scope 3 reporting and details
of which are reported on page 49.
When we first set out our sustainability
roadmap in 2021, the purpose was to
support and enable our environmental,
people‑related and governance activities
across all of the Trifast operations. However,
we purposely chose not to address
everything or report on every ESG measure.
Instead, the Company has focused on the
material strategic areas that matter most
to our stakeholders and where we can
drive and make the most positive impact.
Three years on, one of the key focus areas
is carbon use reduction across our office,
distribution operations and manufacturing
facilities and with our real estate footprint
reduction through the course of the short
term, the Committee have continued
confidence that our carbon use reduction
isachievable.
It is important that the Responsible Business
Committee works closely with other Board
Committees. Climate change risks, safety
and governance topics are reviewed at the
Audit & Risk Committee; diversity, equity
and inclusion and employee engagement
reviewed by the Nomination Committee
and the Remuneration Committee ensure
executive remuneration and incentives link
specifically to the sustainability targets.
Furthermore, sustainability is at the heart
of the Company’s new strategic plan which
is particularly important. These examples
clearly illustrate that our Committee’s
agenda and remit are not being considered
in isolation and that the Company, through
this Committee, links these important
elements of the roadmap together.
The Committee believes that improving
sustainable performance enhances the long‑
term value creation of the Company, and
ensures we continue to be a ‘Responsible
Business’.
Louis Eperjesi
Chair of the Responsible
BusinessCommittee
26 July 2024
Responsible Business Committee
Responsible
Business Steering
Committee
Network of
Champions
Executive
Leadership Team
Read more about our achievements,
commitments and key projects in
the responsible business section on
pages 37 to 54
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Responsible Business Committee report continued
Members
• Clive Watson (Chair)
• Louis Eperjesi
• Laura Whyte
Clive Watson
Chair of the Audit & Risk Committee
Jul
23
Nov
23
Jan
24 Attendance
1
Clive Watson 100%
Louis Eperjesi
100%
Laura Whyte
2
Claire Balmforth
3
100%
Role of the Committee
The role of the Committee is to assist
the Board in fulfilling its oversight
responsibilities by reviewing and
monitoring the integrity of the financial and
narrative statements and other financial
information provided to shareholders. The
Committee’s role is central in monitoring
the effectiveness of the Company’s system
of internal controls and risk management
as well as the external audit process and
auditors and the processes for compliance
with laws, regulations and ethical codes
ofpractice.
FY24 highlights
In addition to our routine business we:
• Monitored preparations to address UK
corporate governance reforms
• Continued to review the development of
the risk management capability across
the Group and engaged in risk appetite
considerations with the management
team
• Supported and assessed the emerging
internal audit function
Areas of focus for FY25
• Oversight of the Group’s response to
the revised UK Corporate Governance
Code as regards internal controls
and development of the Audit
Assurancepolicy
• Reviewing the Company’s procedures
for detecting and preventing fraud in
response to the failure to prevent a fraud
offence introduced by the Economic
Crime & Corporate Transparency Act 2023
• In collaboration with the Group’s
Responsible Business Committee,
reviewing the sustainability strategy, to
ensure appropriate plans are in place
to meet regulatory requirements as
theyemerge
1. Attendance percentage of meetings attended
whilst serving on the Board
2. Laura Whyte was appointed on 11 March 2024
3. Claire Balmforth retired on 1 April 2024
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Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Audit & Risk Committee report
Dear shareholder,
I am pleased to present our report for the
year ended 31 March 2024, which outlines
how the Committee has fulfilled its key
objective of providing effective governance
over the Company’s financial reporting
during the year, and also highlighting our
key priorities for FY25.
Committee competence and
governance
The main activities of the Audit & Risk
Committee during the year are outlined in
the table and are in accordance with the
Committee terms of reference, which define
the requisite experience and requirements
of the Committee. The terms of reference
are reviewed annually by the Committee and
can be viewed on the Company’s website.
We meet three times during the year.
Each Committee meeting normally takes
place prior to a Board meeting, at which
an update on the Committee activities is
provided. The Committee meetings are held
to coincide with key financial reporting and
audit cycle dates.
We have the ability to call on Group
employees to assist in our work and obtain
any information required from the Executive
Directors in order to carry out our roles and
responsibilities. As Chair, I meet with the
Chief Financial Officer and other members
of the Group’s finance team. We are also
able to obtain outside legal or independent
professional advice if required.
The Committee considers the FY24 Annual
Report is fair, balanced and understandable,
with appropriate and required references
being made throughout the various sections.
Audit & Risk Committee meeting calendar
The calendar below sets out the matters discussed at each of our meetings during FY24
July 2023 November 2023 January 2024
• External audit report from BDO
• Review of auditor independence and
non‑audit fees (including non‑audit
services policy review)
• Review of critical accounting policies
and judgements, litigation risks, Group
taxation policies and arrangements
• Reviewed Committee report, agreeing
recommendations for approval to the
Board
• Risk review on effectiveness of risk
management and internal control
systems
• Whistleblowing update
• Internal audit plan review and audit
health check feedback
• Reviewed Committee terms of reference
• Private discussion with external auditors
• Reviewed BDO engagement letter and
fee proposal
• Confirmed the independence of BDO
• Reviewed the H1 financial statements
with particular focus on disclosures to
judgemental issues
• Risk management and internal audit
deep dive, reviewing climate change
risks and ESG roadmap, risk policy
update and whistleblowing update
• Internal audit reports and audit
effectiveness review
• Private discussion with Head of Internal
Audit
• Review of viability modelling and
proposed changes
• Considered impairment considerations
for TR Italy
• Updated on the Task Force on
Climate‑related Financial Disclosures
• Conducted review of all principal risks
• Received whistleblowing update
• Approved internal audit plan for FY25
and internal audit three‑year strategy
• Reviewed findings from internal audits
performed
• Approved Group tax strategy
• Approved Group treasury policy
• Private discussion with external auditor
and Head of Internal Audit
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Audit & Risk Committee report continued
Audit Committee and the External
Audit: Minimum Standard
The Company and the Audit & Risk
Committee apply the ‘Audit Committees
and the External Audit: Minimum Standard’
(the ‘Standard’) published by the FRC in
2023. The Committee report describes
how and the extent to which the Company
has complied with the provisions of the
Standard in the financial year reported.
There were no shareholder requests for
certain matters to be covered in the audit
during the year.
Financial reporting
Our principal responsibility in this area is
the review and challenge of the actions and
judgements of management in relation to
the interim and annual financial statements
before submission to the Board, paying
particular attention to:
• Critical accounting policies and practices,
and any changes therein
• Decisions requiring significant
judgements or estimates or where there
has been discussion with the external
auditor
• The existence of errors, adjusted or
unadjusted, resulting from the audit
• The clarity of the disclosures and
compliance with accounting standards
and relevant financial and governance
reporting requirements
• An assessment of the adoption of the
going concern basis of accounting and
a review of the process and financial
modelling underpinning the Group’s
viability statement
• How the impact of climate change is
considered and reflected in the financial
statements and related assessments
• The processes surrounding the
compilation of the Annual Report
and financial statements with regard
to presenting a fair, balanced and
understandable assessment of the
Group’s position and prospects
Internal control and risk management
While overall responsibility for the Group’s
risk management and internal control
frameworks rest with the Board, the
Audit & Risk Committee has a delegated
responsibility to keep under review the
effectiveness of the systems supporting
these. Further details on accountability
for risk management are provided in the
corporate governance report on page 87.
Our work in this area is supported by
reporting from the Head of Internal Audit
on the results of the programme of internal
audits completed; the overall assessment
of the internal control environment, with
reference to the results of their work, and
in addition, reporting, either verbal or
written, from Senior Management covering
investigations into known or suspected
fraudulent or inappropriate activities.
We take comfort from the work undertaken
for the Board on a review of the sources of
assurance, which are mapped against the
principal risks. In addition, the Committee
are satisfied from the audit work performed
and conclusions reached.
The Committee also receives regular
reporting on the Group’s compliance
and whistleblowing matters from the
Company Secretary, as well as the Head of
Internal Audit. This includes reviewing the
Groups whistleblowing procedures, which
provide a mechanism for employees with
concerns about the conduct of the Group
or its employees to report their concerns.
The Committee ensures that appropriate
arrangements are in place to receive and
act proportionately on any complaint
about malpractice in financial reporting or
otherwise.
The Committee also received presentations
from the Group Treasurer, Head of Risk
and Head of Tax, and monitor regular
presentations to the Board from the Head of
IT Security.
Internal audit
The Committee has a responsibility to
monitor the effectiveness of the Group’s
internal audit function. The Committee
recognise that this newly created function
for the Group is a critical component of
monitoring the control environment of the
Company.
During the year, the Head of Internal Audit
discusses with the Committee Chair on
internal audits undertaken and presents
the results of audit matters and progress
against the internal audit plan to the
Committee, with particular focus on high
priority findings and action plans, including
management responses. Private discussions
between the Committee and Head of
Internal Audit are held during the year.
The updates provide broad coverage of the
internal audit function and a good sense
of the control environment. This allows
the Committee to ensure the function is
effective, which includes assessing the
independence of the function, ensuring
that it is adequately resourced and has
appropriate standing within the Company.
One of the main duties of the Committee is
to review the annual internal audit plan and
to ensure that internal audit is focused on
providing effective assurance.
The internal audit function was established
in FY24 and initially carried out a high‑level
audit of the key financial controls across
the business, which provided information to
inform the FY25 audit plan and three‑year
audit strategy. In developing the internal
audit plan, the principal risks were
mapped to the internal controls to create
a risk‑based audit scope and to identify
internal and external resource needs for
each planned audit. Audit objectives were
established, including specific objectives, to
assess legislative or fraud‑related risks.
Detailed assurance mapping activities are
planned in FY25 using the four lines of
defence model, to support the continued
development of the internal audit plan and
the Audit Assurance policy.
The Global Internal Audit Standard (IIA) has
been adopted for planning and reporting
of internal audits and forms the basis of the
internal audit charter which will be released
in FY25.
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Audit & Risk Committee report continued
External audit
The Committee is responsible for
recommending to the Board the
appointment, re‑appointment, remuneration
(including non‑audit services) and removal
of the external auditor. The external auditors
are BDO, who were first appointed in
November 2019.
When considering whether to recommend
the re‑appointment of the external auditor,
the Committee considers a range of factors,
including the effectiveness of the external
audit, the period since the last audit
tender was conducted and the ongoing
independence and objectivity of the
external auditor. Following the Committee’s
assessment this year, both the Committee
and the Board have concluded that
BDO provide an effective audit and have
recommended their re‑appointment at the
2024 AGM.
Should the auditor resign, the Committee
would be responsible for investigating the
issues surrounding the resignation and
consider whether any action is required.
Viability and going concern statement
The Committee is responsible for signing
off the going concern assessment and
viabilitystatement.
• Our going concern assessment is to
provide assurance that the Group is a
going concern and capable of funding its
subsidiaries for a minimum of 12 months
from the date of signing the accounts
• Our viability statement assesses the
long‑term viability of the Group over a
three‑year period
Both assessments require consideration of:
• The Group’s future and strategy
• The Group’s current financial position
• Financial projections including cash
flow forecasts, use of debt facilities and
associated covenants
• The impact of CBAM and other
climate‑related risks
These assessments rely on the outputs from
the budgets and forecasts prepared by
management. The Committee is involved
in the approval of these budgets and
forecasts, and challenge management
to ensure key risks and uncertainties
(including climate and wider ESG risks)
have been appropriately considered in their
preparation. In response to the increasing
risk of climate change, management
assessed the impact of CBAM for the first
time in its viability modelling. Whilst there
is no material financial impact in the short
term, the Committee highlighted the need
to consider the ancillary costs associated
with the future purchase of carbon credits
and inclusion of costs in longer‑term
projections.
To further determine the level of downside
before the Group would be at risk of
breaching its debt covenants, management
applied reverse stress testing to our viability
case.
After considering the risks and assessments,
the Board and the Committee believe there
is a reasonable expectation the Company
will be able to continue to operate and
meet its liabilities as they fall due over the
foreseeable future and it is appropriate to
continue to adopt the going concern basis
in preparing the Group financial statements.
More information concerning the viability
and going concern statements, and the
TCFD reporting, can be found on pages 76
and 77, 87 and 55 to 65 respectively and
within the principal and emerging risks on
pages 66 to 75.
Recoverability of customer-specific
inventory
The Group has bespoke customer‑specific
products for which there is a risk over
recoverability if any contractual obligations
to acquire outstanding stock are waived
for commercial reasons or the customer
experiences financial distress. Given the size
of the customer‑specific inventory balance,
and the complexity involved in estimating
customers’ changes in future demand, there
is a risk that the valuation of the inventory
provision is inappropriate. The Committee
is satisfied that sufficient focus is given to
this whole area and that provisions made for
customer‑specific inventory are adequate.
Goodwill impairment
Goodwill in the Group balance sheet
is significant and subject to an annual
impairment test and ongoing reviews to
identify indicators of impairment. The
recoverability of goodwill is dependent on
estimating both cash flows and appropriate
discount rates to apply in a value in use
calculation. Given the size of the goodwill
balance, and the complexity of estimating
both cash flows and discount rates, the
Committee considers goodwill impairment
to be an area of material estimation.
Hence there is a risk that the valuation of
goodwill is inappropriate. The Committee
has reviewed the projected cash flows and
discount rates used in the valuation model
and the disclosures provided in note 13 of
the financial statements. The Committee is
satisfied that the year‑end goodwill balance
is appropriately valued.
Non-financial reporting
In response to emerging requirements,
the Committee are taking a more active
role in considering sustainability matters
and reporting, particularly in relation to
the assurance of environmental, social and
governance metrics.
Clive Watson
Chair of the Audit & Risk Committee
26 July 2024
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Audit & Risk Committee report continued
Minimum standard Committee activity during FY24
Financial reporting During the year, the Committee reviewed the integrity of the financial statements (including the Annual Report and Half‑year Report) and announcements related to
financial performance
The Committee advised the Board whether, in the ARC’s view, the Annual Report taken as a whole is fair, balanced and understandable and provides the information
necessary for shareholders to assess the Company’s position and performance, business model and strategy
The Committee reviewed and discussed with management the key assumptions, judgements and estimates as detailed in note 30 of the financial statements
The Committee reviewed the appropriateness of transactions presented in Alternative Performance Measures (APMs) to compare relevant results for the period presented
in the financial statements
Internal controls and risk
management
During the financial year, the Committee were updated regularly on the work performed by the Head of Risk and also the Group Risk Committee. The Group Risk
Committee is made up of the Chief Executive, Chief Financial Officer, Company Secretary and Chief Commercial Officer, and co‑ordinated by the Head of Risk
The Group Risk Committee met three times in the year. The Committee reviews the Company’s principal risks, Group risk register and also the emerging risks. The
Technology Director and HR Director are invited to the Committee meetings to discuss functional risks. In addition, regional management are also invited to the Committee
meeting to discuss specific risks within their region or businesses
The Group Risk Committee discuss and examine risks and opportunities, risk scoring, risk appetite and mitigations, and this is then reported to the Audit & Risk Committee
by the Head of Risk. This is the second year of this type of Committee within the Company, but the Audit & Risk Committee feel that this mechanism is already providing
rigour and discipline across the Company in the risk review process
The Committee have considered the trade compliance procedures and the internal controls within the business to ensure that proper processes are in place to prohibit
sales/transactions with sanctioned countries and individuals
Focus continues to be given to the strength and depth of the finance team’s capability; the quality and efficiency of responses to findings of internal audits and also
opportunities for learnings to be shared more widely across the Group to mitigate risk of recurrence and of course to share good practice
The Committee received updates on tax and treasury strategy and risk management
Internal audit As reported in last year’s report, the Company has invested in internal audit capability. Whilst this is a new and currently two‑person function, the Committee have received
regular updates from the Head of Internal Audit, and as Chair, I have worked closely with her, offering support, advice and guidance, while she establishes the function and
audit culture within the business
Audits have been conducted in the areas stock management and inventory; expenses and adherence with the new expenses policy; and sales pipeline data validation
The results and findings of each of these matters are subsequently reported into the Committee
The following pages provide further details of the Committee’s activity in relation to FY24.
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Audit & Risk Committee report continued
Minimum standard Committee activity during FY24
Internal audit plan The internal audit plan continues to focus the largest proportion of resource on financial assurance reviews whilst incorporating wider risk assurance coverage, both
financial and non‑financial, as described below:
The internal audit plan is based on the 12 sections of the Company’s financial controls manual and considers the links to the principal risks in each section. Four assurance
audits are scheduled within each financial year, resulting in a three‑year plan. In addition to the three‑year plan, further audits are conducted to provide assurance or
verification activities to support the business as the need arises. The Committee considered and approved the 2024 internal audit plan, noting the inclusion of ESG
assurance activity in particular
The FY25 scheduled audits are based on the following areas:
Sales and customers (including sales and revenue forecasting, customer contract fulfilment and sustainability requirements), people and payroll (including payroll and
personnel data management, and change controls), facilities (including leases, health and safety management, emergency preparedness, energy usage and emissions) and
document and data control (including preservation of company information, document retention, data management and access)
The Committee will look to approve the internal audit charter which will include a commitment to an appropriate effectiveness review for the internal audit function,
seeking internal feedback from the business, and ensuring the audits provide support and valuable feedback to business teams
As we go forward, the Committee would like to build an appropriate effectiveness review for the internal audit function, seeking feedback from the business, and ensuring
the audits provide support and valuable feedback to business teams
External audit The audit risks identified by BDO LLP remained consistent compared to last year, but the auditors collected additional evidence following the Financial Reporting Council’s
(FRC) review of BDO’s audit workpapers and documentation related to last year’s audit engagement. The key areas of focus were recoverability of customer‑specific
inventory and impairment of goodwill
BDO audit team visited TR Italy in February 2024 and field work has been carried out on a hybrid basis by competent teams across the globe
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Audit & Risk Committee report continued
Minimum standard Committee activity during FY24
Auditor effectiveness The effectiveness of the external audit process is highly dependent on the appropriate risk identification at the start of the audit cycle and quality of planning. BDO present
their detailed audit plan to the Committee each year, identifying their assessment of the key risks, amongst other matters
Our assessment of the effectiveness and quality of the audit covers a number of other matters, including consideration of the auditors judgement, skills and culture, a
review of the reporting from the auditors to the Committee, a review of the latest FRC Audit Quality Inspection & Supervision Report and also seeking feedback from
management and internal audit on the overall conduct and effectiveness of the audit process and whether the agreed audit plan and any commitments made during
the process have been met. This includes whether the auditors have a good understanding of the business and sufficient knowledge of the industry, whether the level of
challenge provided by the auditors is deemed appropriate and whether recommendations have been acted upon (and if not why not)
Overall management were satisfied that there had been appropriate focus and challenge on the primary areas of audit risk and assessed the quality of the audit process to
be satisfactory. It was also noted that the hybrid mixture of remote and on‑site working through the 2022 audit process was effectively managed and efficient
On 26 February 2024, the FRC issued a letter to the Committee Chair which noted certain matters where they believe users of the financial statements would benefit from
improvements to our existing disclosures. The FRC did not request any substantive response. The Audit & Risk Committee is satisfied that the recommendations made by
the FRC have been reflected in the financial statements
The Audit Quality Review function of the FRC, which reviews the audits conducted by external auditors, had selected BDO’s audit of the Company’s FY23 financial
statements for review. The report which was issued in April 2024, found certain aspects for improvement. The Company and BDO responded separately to the FRC and
have worked closely on the matters raised by the FRC. BDO has taken into consideration the FRC’s preliminary findings and incorporated these in the audit of the FY24
financial statements. The Committee is satisfied that the recommendations by the FRC have been reflected in the BDO audit process
The Committee held two private meetings with the external auditor in the financial year. This provided opportunity for open dialogue and feedback to the Committee and
the auditor, without executive management. Matters discussed included the auditor’s assessment of the business risks and management activity, the quality of the audit
process, the transparency and openness of management interactions, confirmation that there had been no restriction in scope placed on them by management and how
they exercised professional scepticism and challenged management assumptions
The Audit & Risk Committee Chair also speaks with the BDO Engagement Leader outside the formal Committee process as necessary throughout the year. Such
interactions are also important in the assessment of quality. Based on the work carried out, the Committee are of the view that the quality of the audit process
issatisfactory
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Audit & Risk Committee report continued
Minimum standard Committee activity during FY24
Independence policy and
non‑audit services
A formal policy exists which provides guidelines on any non‑audit services which may be provided and ensures that the nature of the advice to be provided cannot impair
the objectivity of the auditor’s opinion on the Group’s financial statements
The policy makes it clear that only certain types of services are permitted to be carried out by the auditors. The policy also establishes a formal authorisation process,
including either the tendering for non‑audit services or pre‑approval by the Committee, for allowable non‑audit work. Where the expected cost of the service is in excess of
70% of the average of the statutory audit fee for the last three years, the approval of the Audit & Risk Committee Chair is required
The auditor confirms their independence annually. The independence rules allow a maximum of five years as Engagement Leader of the Group. James Fearon is in his
second year as BDO Group Engagement Leader
Fees payable to BDO in respect of audit services, as set out in note 5 of the Annual Report, were approved by the Committee after a review of the level and nature of work
to be performed and after being satisfied that the fees were appropriate for the scope of work required
The non‑audit services, as set out in note 5 of the Annual Report, are in relation to the interim review
We are of the view that the level and nature of non‑audit work does not compromise the independence of the external auditor
Having considered the relationship with BDO, their qualifications, expertise, resources and effectiveness, the Committee concluded that they remained independent and
effective for the purpose of FY24. As a result, the Committee recommended to the Board that BDO should be re‑appointed as auditor at the next AGM
Non‑financial reporting The Committee has received updates on ESG assurance, and in particular climate‑related risks and TCFD. The objective of these updates is to provide the Committee with
an overview of the current and anticipated regulatory landscape and its impact on Trifast, and how the Company will meet these requirements. The Committee anticipate
the Company’s ESG roadmap being presented to them for review in FY25
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Audit & Risk Committee report continued
Role of the Committee
To set the remuneration of the Executive
Directors that attracts talented individuals
and is fair in rewarding progress against the
Company’s strategic plan and performance.
FY24 highlights
• Review and approval of remuneration
decisions with regard to the recruitment
of the new Chief Executive Officer
• Undertaking a detailed review of the
executive Directors’ remuneration policy
and arrangements to ensure it continues
to appropriately support our strategy in
advance of presenting to shareholders
for approval at the 2024 AGM
• Engaging with shareholders on the terms
of the proposed Policy
• Appointing a new Committee Chair and
ensuring a smooth transition
Areas of focus for FY25
• Continued focus on pay for performance
and executive remuneration considerate
of wider stakeholder experience
including shareholders and employees
• Commencing a review of wider workforce
remuneration, incorporating what we are
learning from the employee engagement
feedback and Company initiatives
relating to pay equity and fairness
Laura Whyte
Chair of the Remuneration Committee
Appointed on 1 April 2024
Members
• Claire Balmforth (Chair)
retired 1 April 2024
• Laura Whyte (Chair)
appointed 1 April 2024
• Clive Watson
• Louis Eperjesi
Jul
23
Sep
23
9 Nov
23
21 Nov
23
Feb
24
Mar
24 Attendance
1
Claire Balmforth
2
100%
Laura Whyte
3
100%
Clive Watson
100%
Louis Eperjesi
100%
1. Attendance percentage of meetings attended
whilst serving on the Board
2. Claire Balmforth retired on 1 April 2024
3. Laura Whyte was appointed as Non‑Executive
Director on 11 March 2024 and as Chair of the
Remuneration Committee on 1 April 2024
Remuneration Committee composition and attendance
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Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ remuneration report
Introduction
On behalf of the Remuneration Committee
(the ‘Committee’), I am pleased to present
the Directors’ remuneration report for
the year ended 31 March 2024, my first
as Chair of the Committee, having joined
the Committee on 11 March and assumed
the role of Chair from 1 April 2024. I am
delighted to have joined the Board and look
forward to supporting the progression of
the strategic turnaround of the Company.
This report sets out the key decisions taken
by the Committee in FY24, including those
relating to the directorate changes. In
addition, the Committee will be presenting
an updated Policy (the ‘New Policy’) for
shareholder approval at the 2024 AGM.
Last year, the Committee rolled forward the
previous Policy with only minor changes.
However, there has been significant change
at Trifast over the past 12 months. Our
CEO has now been in the role for over nine
months and has made considerable strides
in setting a new strategy and building an
executive team to deliver it. The turnaround
strategy is built to see Trifast recover from
the recent years of underperformance,
rebuilding growth through a One TR
approach to profitability and ultimately
establishing a resilient future, delivering
innovative and sustainably engineered
fastening solutions to our broad range of
customers. Therefore, in light of the changes
in the Company’s strategy during the
year, the Committee felt it appropriate to
undertake a detailed review of the current
Policy to ensure that it remained fit for
purpose.
The sections contained in this
report are:
• The annual statement from the Chair of
the Remuneration Committee
• The annual report on remuneration
• The proposed New Policy
This report has been prepared by the
Committee in accordance with the relevant
legal and accounting regulations and has
been approved by the Board.
Proposed New Policy
In light of the Company’s financial
underperformance in recent times,
which has led to significant changes in
strategy to support Trifast’s ongoing
transformation and the need to retain key
senior management, the Committee felt
it appropriate to review the current Policy
and, in particular, test whether the current
Policy provided a remuneration framework
which would:
• Stabilise and motivate the executive team
to execute the turnaround plan by locking
them in for a three‑to‑five year period as
soon as practicably possible
• Fully align reward outcomes with the
shareholder experience as a result of the
execution of the turnaround plan
Based on the findings from its review, the
Committee determined that some elements
of the current Policy remain fit for purpose
as they are aligned with standard market
practice and support our commitment to
aligning reward with performance.
However, the current LTIP structure of
performance shares based on three–year
financial measures provides the Committee
with a significant challenge in calibrating the
targets to ensure that they are appropriately
stretching and aligned with investors’
interests through a turnaround period, such
that this arrangement was not deemed to
be appropriate at the current time.
The Committee concluded that a new FY25
LTIP structure is required to both retain and
incentivise the executive team to deliver the
transformation required for Trifast over the
next three‑to‑five years. After consideration
of a range of alternatives, including a
standard Performance Share Plan structure,
the Committee determined that the most
appropriate approach is to grant a special,
one‑off award in the form of market priced
options with vesting based on hitting
specified share price hurdles. In taking this
approach, it was viewed that:
• The proposal is simple and transparent
and will be well understood by all
stakeholders
• There is a need to stabilise the executive
team to deliver the turnaround plan and
this structure aims to achieve that by
locking the team in at the start of the
plan
• The award is front‑loaded such that
the executive team is fully aligned from
day one, but they are rewarded for
performance over the next five years
• A fixed number of market value options
combined with share price hurdles
provide a definite alignment between
payouts to management and the creation
of value for shareholders. The approach
is robust and flexible enough to deal with
macroeconomic uncertainty
• Our major shareholders are strong
advocates of absolute return based
incentives, given Trifast’s current
position, and of the use of market priced
options rather than awarding whole
shares to ensure that management are
not rewarded for failure
The options will vest when share price
hurdles have been met during a five‑year
period beginning on the date of grant (the
‘performance period’). Any options that
have met a share price hurdle, although
vested, will be subject to a continued
employment condition. In addition, to align
with the UK Corporate Governance Code,
a performance underpin will apply to the
awards such that the Committee will be
required to assess underlying corporate
performance ahead of the exercise of any
options. Options will become exercisable as
follows:
• Options that vest before the third
anniversary of grant: One‑third of these
vested options will become exercisable
on the third, fourth and fifth anniversary
of grant
• Any further options that vest between
the third and fourth anniversary of grant:
Half of these vested options will become
exercisable on the fourth and fifth
anniversary of grant
• Any further options that vest between
the fourth and fifth anniversary of grant:
These vested options will become
exercisable on the fifth anniversary
ofgrant
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ remuneration report continued
Proposed New Policy continued
In line with the UK Corporate Governance
Code, a holding period will apply such that
the executives cannot sell any shares until
the fifth anniversary of grant, albeit they will
be able to sell shares to cover any tax falling
due on exercise. The awards will incorporate
best practice features, including malus
and clawback and Committee discretion to
override the formulaic outcome if it is out of
line with underlying Company performance.
The Committee is comfortable with this
structure on the basis that the continued
employment condition, staggered exercise
timeline and holding period ensures that,
for the executive team to benefit, any
share price increase must be sustainable
such that the FY25 LTIP rewards long‑term
performance.
This will be the only long‑term incentive
award granted over the three‑year Policy
period. The Committee would expect to
seek approval for a new arrangement to be
introduced at the beginning of the fourth
year of the FY25 LTIP, i.e. in FY28 where it
is anticipated that the long‑term incentive
would revert to a more conventional
target‑based structure.
The Committee’s intention is to award a
one‑off grant of market priced options
under the FY25 LTIP where the exercise
price is set equal to Trifast’s share price
shortly before the date of grant. The
maximum award of a fixed number of
market value options is equivalent to 2.2%
of issue share capital (ISC) for the CEO
and 1.3% of ISC for each other Executive
Director.
In terms of implementing the FY25 LTIP, the
options will vest when share price hurdles
have been met during the performance
period. Threshold vesting of 20% will be
achieved for reaching a minimum share
price hurdle and vesting then increases in
20% increments up to maximum vesting at a
share price of £1.40.
It should be noted that the Committee
will determine the minimum share price
hurdle closer to the date of grant, taking
account of the share price at that time and
the Committee’s desire to provide a timely
retentive impact, given the lack of incentive
payouts over a number of years for many of
the executive team.
In determining the maximum share price
hurdle, the Committee considered the
following:
• Under the proposed schedule, maximum
vesting will be achieved if the share price
reaches £1.40. The Committee considers
this to be exceptional performance and
would deliver significant returns for our
shareholders, i.e. the Company’s market
capitalisation will have increased by
£85.5m to £190.6m (figures calculated in
March 2024)
• The potential gearing in the FY25 LTIP
ensures that the executive team are
fully incentivised to continue to drive
performance beyond the maximum
vesting share price hurdle of £1.40
• Under this proposal, reaching a share
price of £1.40 on exercise would deliver
c.£1m net to the CEO, at the current rates
of taxation, which the Committee feels
would be an appropriate payout given
Trifast’s size and the increased share
value investors would receive (£85.5m
increase in market cap as noted above,
all figures calculated in March 2024).
The Committee discussed whether, in
the event that the share price upon
exercise was significantly higher than
£1.40, a cap should be placed on the
potential rewards under the one‑off
grant of market priced options. The
Committee concluded that it would
be counter‑intuitive and possibly
demotivating to management to cap the
gain under the option when shareholders
would benefit from a higher share price
given that the award is intended to
incentivise management to execute the
business transformation and drive value
for shareholders. Notwithstanding this
the Committee retains the discretion to
vary the level of vesting if it finds that
the level of vesting would not accurately
represent an individual’s or business
performance. This could also include
factors, but not limited to, such as
movements in foreign exchange rates,
government initiatives, hyper inflation or
business performance out of line with the
underlying shareholder experience
Further details of the proposed New Policy
and rationale can be found later in this
statement in the FY25 implementation
section and on pages 131 to 146.
In addition, the Committee determined that
to better align the interests of the Executive
Directors with those of the shareholders, the
current bonus deferral mechanism will be
enhanced so that 50% of any bonus paid will
be deferred into shares for three years from
the current approach whereby any bonus in
excess of 100% of salary will be deferred. No
other significant changes are proposed and
the remaining elements of the New Policy
are summarised below:
Base salary: Reviewed annually by the
Committee and determined on 1 July each
year. The Committee will target median
salaries within FTSE Small Cap Index
companies. Salary increases for Executive
Directors will not normally exceed the
average increase which applies across the
wider Trifast UK employee population.
Larger increases may be awarded in certain
circumstances, including where strategic
imperatives have progressed, a material
change in the role and responsibilities
and when an Executive Director has been
appointed either internally or externally at
below the market level to reflect experience.
Pension and benefits: Executive Directors
will receive a pension contribution, in line
with the rate available to the majority of
the workforce (currently 5% of salary). The
Company will provide market‑competitive
benefits to Executive Directors and
reimburse any necessary and reasonable
business expenses.
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Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ remuneration report continued
Proposed New Policy continued
Annual bonus: Maximum opportunity of
150% of salary. 50% of any bonus earned will
be paid in shares deferred for three years.
Performance measures, weightings and
targets will be set by the Committee each
year. Payout for threshold performance at
25% of maximum, and payout for on‑target
performance at 50% of maximum. Malus
and clawback provisions apply and the
Committee has overriding discretion to
change the formulaic outcome (both
downwards and upwards) if it is out of
line with underlying performance of the
Company. Dividend equivalents may be
payable on deferred shares.
All employee share plan: Sharesave plan
operated in line with HMRC limits.
Shareholding requirements: Shareholding
requirement of 250% of salary over
five years from policy adoption while
in employment. Additionally, there is a
requirement to continue to hold shares
equivalent to the minimum of actual
shareholding on cessation of employment
and in‑employment shareholding
requirement for a period of two years
following termination of employment.
Chair and NED fees: It is anticipated that
increases to Chair and NED fee levels will
typically be in line with market levels of
fee inflation and the increase awarded to
the wider Trifast UK employee population.
Larger increases above this may be awarded
in certain circumstances, for example a
material change in the time commitment
or responsibilities of the Non‑Executive
Director. Additional fees may be payable in
instances where work performed is outside
of the scope of the individual’s role and
responsibilities. The Company targets FTSE
Small Cap median fees.
The Committee undertook an extensive
consultation with the Company’s 15 largest
shareholders, representing over 70% of
the issued share capital and the main
shareholder representative bodies (IA, ISS,
Glass Lewis) in relation to the New Policy.
The key themes that emerged were:
• We received significant support from
shareholders for the FY25 LTIP structure
and performance targets and the
principle that management should be
well rewarded if performance is strong
• Some shareholders suggested the
minimum share price hurdle would need
to be increased if the share price rose
prior to grant, but were comfortable
that the Committee could make this
judgement closer to the grant date
• A small number of shareholders were
concerned about the 7.5% dilution limit
and asked whether the Company could
consider using an Employee Benefit Trust
to market purchase shares
• Some shareholders noted that there is a
risk that the share price hurdles may not
be hit, despite management performing
well, and that it would be wrong for
management to not receive a payout
under these circumstances
• The Committee received one suggestion
that a monetary cap should be
introduced
The Committee has reflected on the
feedback provided. As a result, it has
updated the proposals in relation to the
minimum share price hurdle, as set out
above, such that it will consider it closer
to the date of grant. The Committee
determined not to implement a cap on
payouts. However, the Committee will
review the overall value on exercise of the
market priced options to determine whether
the level of value created is commensurate
with the overall corporate performance
and will scale back levels of vesting if it is
not satisfied, and it wishes to clarify that
the FY25 LTIP will allow the Committee
to make awards up to 7.5% of issued
share capital, but that the awards may be
settled via a mixture of newly issued and
market purchased shares At the end of the
consultation, the significant majority of
shareholders consulted indicated they were
supportive of the proposals.
The Committee is grateful for the time
that shareholders have taken to consider
proposals and provide feedback.
Directorate changes
Chair role
Jonathan Shearman stepped down from the
Board on 14 September 2023 with Serena
Lang taking over as Chair. Serena’s Chair fee
was set at £135,000.
Chief Executive Officer role
Scott Mac Meekin stepped down from
his role as interim CEO and the Board on
19September 2023. Scott remained with
the business as the Head of Strategic
Transformation until 19 February 2024, at
which time he left the Company.
Iain Percival assumed the role of Chief
Executive Officer on 20September 2023.
In relation to Iain, the Committee
determined his FY24 remuneration package
in line with the Policy were as follows:
• Salary of £400,000
• Pension of 5% of salary
• Benefits in line with the Policy
• 150% of salary FY24 maximum annual
bonus opportunity
• 150% of salary FY24 LTIP award
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Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ remuneration report continued
Directorate changes continued
Chief Financial Officer role
Darren Hayes‑Powell left his role as Chief
Financial Officer on 21 February 2024. Kate
Ferguson, the Group Financial Controller,
assumed the role of interim CFO on 22
February 2024. Although Kate attends Board
meetings, on the basis that she is not an
appointed Board member, her remuneration
details are not included in this report.
In line with the 2023 Policy regarding loss
of office payments, the Remuneration
Committee determined that Darren be
treated as a good leaver. He received
thefollowing:
• 12 months of fixed pay in respect of his
notice period and additional payments in
line with the Policy
• Annual bonus pro‑rated for time served
during FY24, subject to the achievement
of performance targets
• In‑flight FY24 LTIP award pro‑rated for
time served during the vesting period,
vesting on the normal date subject to the
achievement of performance targets
See page 127 for further details.
Role and activities of the Committee
The primary role of the Committee is
unchanged, which is to provide our
Executive Directors with remuneration that
motivates and aligns them with delivery of
our strategy and creates shareholder value
in a sustainable manner. In addition, it is
our duty to ensure that the remuneration
received by the Executive Directors is
proportionate to the performance achieved
and the returns received by shareholders.
The main activities of the Committee were
as follows:
• Review of current Policy and
development of New Policy proposals,
including determining the appropriate
structure of the FY25 LTIP
• Engaging with shareholders in relation to
the New Policy proposals
• Determination of implementation of
Policy in light of directorate changes
• Determination of the final remuneration
outcomes for FY24
• Determining the appropriate FY25 annual
bonus and LTIP targets
• Oversight of the remuneration aspects of
Senior Management and wider workforce
pay and policies
• Consideration of our gender pay
reporting summary
• Review the Remuneration Committee’s
terms of reference
FY24 Company performance
Against a backdrop of continued subdued
demand conditions in a number of
geographic and end market sectors, Trifast’s
trading performance in the final quarter
of FY24 was resilient and supported by
the self‑help initiatives launched during
the year. As a result, the Group’s revenue
(£233.7m) and profitability (underlying
PBT:£6.5m) for FY24 were marginally ahead
of guidance issued in January 2024, albeit
these were significantly below the Board’s
approved budget and the market’s original
expectations for the year.
Management has continued to focus on
the operational improvement programme
instigated in 2023, to drive enhanced
efficiency and productivity, and we remain
committed to delivering phased savings,
the bulk of which will be delivered in FY25.
As part of this programme, we are pleased
to report that we completed Project Atlas
across the global business which will
enable the business to collaborate more
productively as we refocus our activities.
The anticipated consolidation of UK
sites into the purpose‑built UK National
Distribution Centre has been slightly
behind our original target of March 2024.
This was mainly due to the complexities
of integrating four regional business units,
including our largest site, Bellbrook Park,
into one location with limited disruption to
the business. Our final location integration
was completed in June 2024.
We are confident that the NDC will enable
us to rebuild revenues with a much higher
level of efficiency and gives the UK business
a stronger platform to benefit from demand
recovery in the short to medium term.
Working capital and cash management
continues to be a key focus, with the
Group delivering a significant reduction in
inventory levels and strong cash generation
over the course of FY24, ahead of our
original targets.
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Directors’ remuneration report continued
FY24 remuneration outcomes
Annual bonus
Given the Company’s performance set
out above, threshold performance was
not achieved against the underlying profit
before tax target. In line with Policy, the
Committee was unable to consider payment
of any bonus from the average working
capital % and strategic and operational
elements as threshold performance was not
met for the profit‑based measure. Therefore,
no FY24 annual bonus is payable to the
Executive Directors that served during the
year and the Committee noted that the
outcome reflected underlying Company
performance.
Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP)
Vesting
The current Executive Director was not in
employment when the FY22 LTIP award
grant was made on 3 August 2021, the
performance period of which ended on
31 March 2024. For completeness, the
award was assessed against the EPS
(70% weighting) and relative TSR (30%
weighting) targets.
Trifast’s performance was below the
threshold level for each of these, which
resulted in nil vesting. The Committee noted
that the FY22 LTIP vesting outcome was
aligned with Company performance as well
as shareholders’ experience. Full details of
Trifast’s performance against the FY22 LTIP
targets is provided on page 124.
Grant
The Committee granted FY24 LTIP awards
equivalent to 150% and 125% of salary to
Iain Percival and Darren Hayes‑Powell
respectively on 28 November 2023.
In line with Policy, the awards were granted
in the form of nil cost options, have a
three‑year vesting period and are subject
to a two‑year post‑vesting holding period.
The performance conditions attached
to the awards were relative TSR (75%
weighting) and underlying operating margin
(UOM) (25% weighting). The Committee
will have overriding discretion to change
the formulaic outcome (both downwards
and upwards) if it is out of line with the
underlying performance of the Company
and this will include an assessment of
whether any windfall gains have been made.
The UOM target, to be achieved in FY26,
the final year of the performance period,
at threshold performance is 8.2% for 25%
vesting, 9.1% for 50% vesting, 10% for 75%
vesting and 11% at maximum performance
with straight‑line vesting between these
points. The relative TSR targets remain
unchanged but will now be assessed against
the FTSE All Share Index on the basis that
it provides a more appropriate, broader
comparison of companies facing similar
global challenges to Trifast.
The Committee is comfortable that the
performance measures are appropriate and
that the targets are challenging given the
current economic conditions. Full details of
the performance targets can be found in the
annual report on remuneration on page 136.
The treatment of Darren Hayes‑Powell’s
FY24 LTIP award is set out above.
Overall
The Committee is comfortable that the
current Policy operated as intended and
that the overall FY24 remuneration paid
to Executive Directors was appropriate.
Therefore, the Committee did not exercise
any discretion.
Wider workforce considerations
In terms of the wider workforce in the UK,
an average increase of 5.9% will be applied
from 1 July 2024. This increase, although
later than in prior years, reflects the need
to ensure our rates of pay keep track
with inflation. This cost‑of‑living increase
approach has been applied across our
global workforce.
The current focus in relation to
engagement has continued to centre
around communicating regularly with our
employees and conducting employee
surveys. Our surveys focus on our culture
and the wellbeing of employees.
We have continued to engage with
our workforce to get open and
engaging feedback. The engagement
survey results were presented to the
Nomination Committee, with a refresh
of the engagement process to ensure
the Non‑Executive Directors get a true
and direct view on key topics across the
Company. As the Non‑Executive Directors
visit sites, we will take a structured
approach to gain insights into leadership,
capacity, communication, work/life balance
and the culture within the business. We are
keen as a wider Board to ensure that the
newly stated values are truly brought to
life in how we support our colleagues and
operate business. The refreshed approach
will help us measure the adoption of the
values in the daily working. Read more
about our employee engagement on
page 40.
We also published our seventh gender pay
gap report in March 2024 (relating to the
report for April 2023). We were encouraged
to see that our median gender pay gap of
+6% (i.e. our female employees are paid
6% more than our male employees) and
the median bonus gap of nil demonstrates
that Trifast is an equal opportunities
organisation. We are proud that we have
bonus schemes covering a significant
number of our employees. Our gender pay
gap report can be found on our corporate
website at www.trfastenings.com.
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Directors’ remuneration report continued
Wider workforce considerations
continued
We continue to be committed to creating
an inclusive working environment and to
rewarding all our employees in a fair manner
and believe they should be able to share in
the success of the Company. To facilitate
this, we operate a popular Save As You Earn
(SAYE) share plan which is open to all UK
employees and are delighted that so many
of them are currently enrolled.
Implementation for FY25
We set out the proposed implementation of
the New Policy for FY25 below:
Salary
Given the Company’s performance, the
Committee has determined that the CEO
will not receive an increase in base salary
forFY25.
Pension
The pension contribution for FY25 for the
CEO will continue to be 5% of salary, in line
with the rate available to the majority of
theworkforce.
Annual bonus
The Committee determined the maximum
annual bonus opportunity at 150% of
salary for the CEO. In line with standard
market practice, the Policy provides the
Committee with the flexibility to determine
the appropriate bonus measures, weightings
and targets each year. The performance
measures for the FY25 annual bonus will
be 60% based on underlying profit before
tax (UPBT) targets, 20% on average
working capital percentage targets and
20% based on strategic and operational
targets which will be linked to the
execution of the transformation plan and
include specific sustainability objectives.
Additionally, no bonus payment can be
made unless threshold UPBT performance
has been achieved. Performance targets
set by the Committee will be challenging
but with an appropriate probability of
payout and disclosed in detail in next
year’s remuneration report. In line with the
proposed New Policy, 50% of any bonus
payable will be deferred into shares for
three years.
FY25 LTIP award
Please see the section above. The CEO will
be granted a fixed number of market‑priced
options which is equivalent to 2.2% of ISC.
Awards granted to each other Executive
Director will be in line with Policy and
determined on appointment.
Non-Executive Chair and Director fees
In line with the approach for the CEO, there
will be no increase to Non‑Executive Chair
and Director fees for FY25.
Looking ahead
The Committee is comfortable that
the operation of the Policy in FY24,
alongside the proposed New Policy and its
implementation for FY25, are in line with
the best interests of the Group and will
incentivise and retain those team members
who are critical to executing our business
strategy and driving the long‑term creation
of value for shareholders. We look forward
to your support for the advisory vote on
the annual report on remuneration and
the binding vote on the New Policy at the
forthcoming AGM.
I would also like to take this opportunity
to thank my predecessor as Remuneration
Committee Chair, Claire Balmforth, for her
leadership and for steering the Committee
with a strong set of policies and practices
upon which our decisions can be made.
Finally, I would like to acknowledge the
dedication of all our staff who have worked
hard to deliver a number of operational
initiatives and create a team ready to build
on the strengths of our TR brand worldwide.
Laura Whyte
Chair of the Remuneration Committee
26 July 2024
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Directors’ remuneration report continued
Annual report on
remuneration
This section of the remuneration report
contains details as to how the Company’s
current remuneration Policy was
implemented during FY24. The Committee
is satisfied that the Policy operated as
intended in FY24 and its implementation
did not deviate from the approved Policy.
It also covers how the New Policy will be
implemented in FY25 on the basis it is
approved by shareholders at the 2024 AGM.
In the first part of this report, we have also
set out information with regard to our wider
workforce and pay fairness.
Pay at Trifast
To attract and retain high‑calibre
individuals, we aspire to become an
employer of choice within our sector,
maintaining a competitive reward package
that balances fairness to our colleagues
as well as responsible use of shareholders’
funds. Our pay principles are as follows:
• Support the recruitment and retention of
high‑quality colleagues
• Enable us to recognise and reward
colleagues appropriate to their
contribution and achievement of
objectives
• Help to ensure that decisions on pay are
managed in a fair, just and transparent
way
• Create a direct alignment between our
Company culture and our reward strategy
Through the application of these principles,
the Company has continued to attract
industry specialists with global experience
at senior levels.
How the Committee is informed on
wider workforce pay
To build the Remuneration Committee’s
understanding of reward arrangements
applicable to the wider workforce, the
Committee is provided with data on the
remuneration structure for management
level tiers below the Executive Directors
and pay outcomes for these roles. The
Committee has developed a process
whereby it will be provided with feedback
from the Company’s various engagement
tools, such that it has access to further
context in making decisions on future pay
outcomes. This information is combined
with the insights the Committee gains
during site visits and which Laura Whyte,
who is the Designated Non‑Executive
Director for employee engagement, will
lead in the coming year. The Committee
uses this information to ensure consistency
and fairness of approach throughout the
Company in relation to remuneration.
Summary of the proposed Directors’
Remuneration Policy
The key elements from the Directors’
remuneration Policy, which will be put
forward for shareholder approval at the
AGM on 10 September 2024, and how it will
be implemented for FY25, are summarised
below. The Committee does not intend to
deviate from the New Policy in FY25.
The full New Policy is set out on pages
131 to 146.
Element Policy summary Implementation for FY25
Base salary Base salary is reviewed annually by the Committee and determined on 1 July each
year. The Committee will target median salaries within FTSE Small Cap Index
companies. Salary increases for Executive Directors will not normally exceed the
average increase which applies across the wider Trifast UK employee population
Larger increases may be awarded in certain circumstances, including where
strategic imperatives have progressed, a material change in the role and
responsibilities and when an Executive Director has been appointed either
internally or externally at below the market level to reflect experience
The Committee also considers the impact of any base salary increase on the total
remuneration package
The Committee has determined that the CEO will not receive an increase in base
salary for FY25.
FY25 salary is therefore as follows:
• Iain Percival (CEO): £400,000
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Element Policy summary Implementation for FY25
Pension and benefits Executive Directors will receive a pension contribution, in line with the rate
available to the majority of the workforce
The Company will provide market‑competitive benefits to Executive Directors and
reimburse any necessary and reasonable business expenses
The pension contribution for FY25 for the CEO will be 5% of salary, in line with the
rate available to the majority of the workforce
No change to benefit provision
Annual bonus Maximum opportunity of 150% of salary. 50% of any bonus earned will be paid in
shares deferred for three years
Performance measures, weightings and targets will be set by the Committee each
year
Payout for threshold performance at 25% of maximum, and payout for on‑target
performance at 50% of maximum
Malus and clawback provisions apply. Dividend equivalents may be payable on
deferred shares
The Committee has overriding discretion to change the formulaic outcome (both
downwards and upwards) if it is out of line with underlying performance of the
Company
The Committee awarded a FY25 bonus with a maximum opportunity of 150% of
salary to the CEO
The Committee determined that the performance measures and weightings will be
as follows:
• 60% based on underlying profit before tax (UPBT) targets
• 20% based on average working capital % targets
• 20% based on strategic and operational targets based on the execution of the
transformational plan, and include specific sustainability objectives
• No bonus payment can be made under the average working capital % element
or the strategic and operational element unless threshold UPBT performance
has been achieved
Targets are deemed commercially sensitive and will be disclosed in the FY25
Annual Report
In line with Policy, payout for threshold performance is 25% of maximum, and
payout for on‑target performance is 50% of maximum
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Element Policy summary Implementation for FY25
FY25 LTIP One‑off grant of a fixed number of market priced options where the exercise price
is set equal to Trifast’s share price shortly before the date of grant. This will be the
only long‑term incentive award granted to the Executive Directors over the three‑
year Policy period
The options will vest when share price hurdles have been met during a five‑year
period beginning on the date of grant
The CEO and each other Executive Director will have a maximum award of market
priced options which is equivalent to 2.2% and 1.3% of the issued share capital
(ISC) respectively
Any options that have met a share price hurdle, although vested, will be subject to
a continued employment condition
A performance underpin will apply to the awards such that the Committee will be
required to assess underlying corporate performance ahead of the exercise of any
options
Options will become exercisable as follows:
• Options that vest before the third anniversary of grant: One‑third of these
vested options will become exercisable on the third, fourth and fifth
anniversary of grant
• Any further options that vest between the third and fourth anniversary of
grant: Half of these vested options will become exercisable on the fourth and
fifth anniversary of grant
• Any further options that vest between the fourth and fifth anniversary of grant:
These vested options will become exercisable on the fifth anniversary of grant
A holding period will apply such that the executives cannot sell any shares until
the fifth anniversary of grant, albeit they will be able to sell shares to cover any tax
falling due on exercise
Malus and clawback provisions apply
Overriding discretion in line with annual bonus
The CEO will be granted a fixed number of market priced options which is
equivalent to 2.2% of the ISC. Awards granted to each other Executive Director
will be in line with Policy and determined on appointment.
Threshold vesting of 20% will be achieved for reaching a minimum share price
hurdle and vesting then increases in 20% increments up to maximum vesting at
a share price of £1.40. It should be noted that the Committee will determine the
minimum share price hurdle closer to the date of grant, taking account of the
share price at that time and the Committee’s desire to provide a timely retentive
impact, given the lack of incentive payouts over a number of years for many of the
executive team. To provide an illustrative example of the minimum hurdle, if it was
set currently with Trifast’s share price being around £0.75, the Committee would
determine c.£0.80 to be appropriate.
Share price (£) Vesting
To be determined closer to grant date 20%
TBC TBC
TBC TBC
TBC TBC
£1.40 100%
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Element Policy summary Implementation for FY25
Minimum shareholding
requirements
Shareholding requirement of 250% of salary over five years from policy adoption
while in employment. Additionally, there is a requirement to continue to hold
shares equivalent to the minimum of actual shareholding on cessation of
employment and in‑employment shareholding requirement for a period of two
years following termination of employment
The shareholding requirement in FY25 will be 250% of salary
Post‑employment shareholding requirement will also apply
Non‑Executive Director
fees
It is anticipated that increases to Chair and NED fee levels will typically be in
line with market levels of fee inflation and the increase awarded to the wider
Trifast UK employee population. Larger increases above this may be awarded in
certain circumstances, for example a material change in the time commitment or
responsibilities of the Non‑Executive Director. Additional fees may be payable in
instances where work performed is outside of the scope of the individual’s role
and responsibilities
The Company targets FTSE Small Cap median fees
In line with the approach for the Executive Directors, there will not be an increase
to any Non‑Executive Director fees for FY25. From 1 April 2024, fees are as
follows:
• Chair: £135,000
• NED: £45,000
• SID: £6,000
• Committee Chair fee: £8,000
• Committee membership fee: £5,000/£8,000
Executive Directors are also entitled to participate in the Company’s all employee share plan (SAYE) operated in the UK.
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Linking our remuneration policy with our business strategy
Our proposed New Policy has been designed to align with the Group’s updated strategy. Below we have set out how each performance measure within our incentive structure links
backto our key objectives.
Our key objectives
Margin
management
Organisational
effectiveness
Focused
growth
Operational
efficiency
KPIs
Underlying profit before tax (%)
Working capital as a percentage of revenue (%)
Underlying ROCE (%)
CO
2
e reduction
Lost time incident rate
Employee engagement
Annual bonus
Focus on:
• Margin management
• Focused growth
Underlying
PBT
Focus on:
• Margin management
• Operational efficiency
Average
working
capital
percentage
Focus on:
• People, culture and
safety
• Sustainability
• Innovation
• Technology
• Commercial excellence
Strategic/
operational
Measure Link to strategy
FY25 LTIP
• Linked to
shareholder value
• Focus on
performance
Share price
hurdles
• Focus on gross margin
improvements and
operational efficiencies
• Focus on organic
growth

Corporate
performance
underpin
• Linked to
shareholder value
Shareholding
guidelines
Measure Link to strategy
Key
Margin management
Focused growth
Organisational effectiveness
Operational efficiency
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How the Company addressed factors in Provision 40 of the 2018 UK Corporate Governance Code
The Code requires the Committee to determine the policy and practices for Executive Directors in line with several factors set out in Provision 40. The following table sets out how
theNew Policy aligns with Provision 40 of the Code, the objective of which is to ensure the remuneration operated by the Company is aligned to all stakeholder interests, including
thoseof shareholders.
Remuneration factors How the Committee has addressed this in the remuneration policy
Clarity – remuneration arrangements should be transparent
and promote effective engagement with shareholders and the
workforce
The Company’s performance‑based remuneration is based on supporting the implementation of the Company’s strategy as measured
through its KPIs and share price growth. There is transparency over the performance metrics in place for both annual bonus and the
FY25 LTIP and there is a clear link between long‑term value creation and the provision of reward to Executive Directors and Senior
Management
Simplicity – remuneration structures should avoid complexity
and their rationale and operation should be easy to understand
The market standard annual bonus structure and proposed market value option‑based FY25 LTIP are well understood by
shareholders and participants alike
Risk – remuneration arrangements should ensure reputational
and other risks from excessive rewards, and behavioural risks
that can arise from target‑based incentive plans are identified
and mitigated
Identified risks have been mitigated as follows:
• Deferring 50% of annual bonus into shares and the holding period on the FY25 LTIP, until the fifth anniversary of grant, helps
ensure that the performance earnings awards is sustainable and thereby discourages short‑term behaviours
• Aligning reward to the agreed strategy of the Company
• Reducing the awards or cancelling them if the behaviours giving rise to the awards are inappropriate, through malus and clawback
• Reducing annual bonus or FY25 LTIP awards or cancelling them, if it appears that the criteria on which the award was based does
not reflect the underlying performance of the Company
Predictability – the range of possible value of rewards to
individual Directors and any other limits or discretions should be
identified and explained at the time of approving the Policy
The Remuneration Committee has good line of sight and control over the potential performance outcomes, and the actual and
perceived value of incentives
The Policy sets out the potential remuneration available in several performance scenarios
Proportionality – the link between individual awards, the
delivery of strategy and the long‑term performance of the
Company should be clear. Outcomes should not reward poor
performance
One of the key strengths of the proposed approach of the Company to remuneration is the direct link between the returns strategy
and the value received by Executives
The schematic on page 139 sets out the potential remuneration available in several performance scenarios
Alignment to culture – incentive schemes should drive
behaviours consistent with Company purpose, values and
strategy
The FY25 LTIP and annual bonus deferral reward long‑term sustainable performance. This focus on long‑term sustainable value is a
key tenet of the Company’s strategy
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Alignment between wider workforce pay and Directors’ Remuneration Policy
Trifast aims to provide a remuneration package for all employees which is market competitive and operates a similar structure as for the Executive Directors. The Company’s remuneration
philosophy for all employees from the Executive Directors downwards is that they should have a meaningful element of performance‑based pay. For Executive Directors, the LTIP and 50%
of the annual bonus is provided in shares to ensure a focus on long‑term sustainable value creation and to align their experience with that of shareholders. The Company’s LTIP extends
to selected Senior Management within the Company, with the number of employees eligible to participate being c.60 from across 16 countries. The majority of the wider workforce
participate in a performance‑based discretionary bonus. The Company also has a Save As You Earn scheme (SAYE) for all UK employees in order to increase levels of share‑ownership
throughout the Company and allow employees to share in its success.
The table below illustrates the cascade of our reward structure from Executive Directors to the wider employee population.
Fixed
remuneration
Annual
bonus – cash
Annual
bonus – deferral LTIP
UK employee
share scheme
(SAYE)
Executive Directors Y Y Y Y Y
Executive Leadership Team Y Y N Y Y
Senior Management Y Y N Y Y
Wider workforce Y Y N N Y
The Committee is satisfied that the approach to remuneration across the Company is consistent with the Company’s principles of remuneration. In the Committee’s opinion, the approach
to executive remuneration aligns with the wider Company pay policy and there are no anomalies specific to the Executive Directors.
CEO pay ratio
The table below sets out the ratios of the CEO single total figure of remuneration to the equivalent pay for the lower quartile, median and upper quartile of UK employees.
Pay ratio
Year Method
25th
percentile
50th
percentile
75th
percentile
FY24 Option A 15:1 13:1 8:1
FY23 Option A 19:1 15:1 10:1
FY22 Option A 24:1 19:1 13:1
FY21 Option A 17:1 14:1 9:1
FY20 Option A 18:1 14:1 10:1
The CEO remuneration figure is as shown in the single total figure for Executive Directors’ remuneration table on page 122, being the total for the two individuals that held the role
during FY24. The remuneration figures for the employee at each quartile were determined as at 31 March 2024. Each employee’s pay and benefits were calculated using each element of
employee remuneration, consistent with the CEO, on a full‑time equivalent basis. No adjustments (other than to achieve full‑time equivalent rates through simple proration) were made
and no components of pay, except SAYE awards consistent with FY23, have been omitted.
Bonus payments included in total pay and benefits for below Board employees are those paid in the year to 31 March 2024 rather than those earned in the same period.
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CEO pay ratio continued
The salary and total pay and benefits for the
employee at each of the 25th, 50th and 75th
percentiles are as shown in the table below:
Pay data
Base salary
£000
Total pay
and benefits
£000
CEO
1
400 432
Employee at
25th percentile 24 28
Employee at
50th percentile 28 33
Employee at
75th percentile 44 52
1. Includes a full year of CEO remuneration; including
remuneration paid to Scott Mac Meekin (interim
CEO) from 1 April 2023 to 19 September 2023 and
remuneration for Iain Percival from 20 September
2023 to 31 March 2024
We have chosen methodology option A
for the calculation, to identify the three
UKemployees at each of the quartiles as at
31March 2024. In line with the regulations, all
employees across our four UK subsidiaries
were used in the calculation. This method
was chosen given its robustness in
determining these three UK employees.
The ratios will be used as part of the
Committee’s remuneration decision‑making
process regarding broader employee pay
policies as well as remuneration policies for
the Executive Directors. They reflect the
difference in remuneration arrangements as
responsibility increases for more senior roles
within the Company. There may therefore be
significant volatility in this ratio, caused by
the following:
• Our CEO pay is made up of a higher
proportion of incentive pay than that
of our employees, in line with the
expectations of our shareholders, which
introduces a higher degree of variability
in their pay each year versus that of our
employees
• A significant proportion of our CEO’s
pay is provided in shares, and their value
reflects the movement in share price over
the three years prior to vesting. This can
add significant volatility to the CEO’s pay
and may be reflected in the ratio if the
Company meets the respective targets
The FY24 CEO pay ratios at the 25th, 50th
and 75th percentiles are lower than the
equivalent FY23 ratios. This is primarily
a result of increases in the total pay and
benefits of the employees at each of the
percentiles. The Committee is comfortable
that the median ratio is consistent with the
Company’s pay and progression policies.
Gender pay gap reporting
Trifast is committed to the principle of
equal opportunities and equal treatment
for all colleagues, regardless of sex, race,
religion or belief, age, marriage or civil
partnership, pregnancy/maternity, sexual
orientation, gender reassignment or
disability. The Company has concluded
that the single most important factor is to
identify, recruit and develop people based
on skills and merit. We have a clear policy of
paying employees equally for the same or
equivalent work, regardless of their sex (or
any other characteristic set out above).
Trifast is therefore confident that our
gender pay gap does not stem from paying
men and women differently for the same
or equivalent work but is instead the result
of the roles in which men and women work
within the organisation and the salaries that
these roles attract.
Our median gender pay, calculated for
TR Fastenings UK, was 6% in favour of
women. We are pleased that this remains
significantly below the UK average. Our
gender pay gap report can be found on our
corporate website at www.trfastenings.com.
Remuneration justification
The Committee is comfortable that the
internal and external pay relativity reference
points set out provide justification that the
remuneration arrangements for Executive
Directors are appropriate and illustrate the
suitability of the changes being made to the
New Policy.
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How executive remuneration is communicated with stakeholders, shareholders and employees
Please see details of our engagement with shareholders in the section on stakeholder engagement on page 24 and the Chair’s introduction to governance on page 78.
As outlined, the Company and the Board seek to engage with employees utilising a number of communication channels. In the engagement process, remuneration is covered as a specific
topic and is a primary focus when the Non‑Executive Directors engaged with employees on site. Employees are asked about their own remuneration, overall reward package and how they
view other engagement topics such as communication, work‑life balance and culture. The feedback on remuneration will be reviewed by the Committee to ensure that we have a watching
brief on fairness and transparency on the overarching reward strategy. See page 40 for further information on employee engagement.
CEO and all-employee pay
Total shareholder return
The graph below sets out the total shareholder return performance of the Company compared to the FTSE All Share, FTSE Small Cap Index and FTSE All‑Share Industrial Engineering
Index over a ten‑year period from 31 March 2014. The Remuneration Committee believes it is appropriate to monitor the Company’s performance against these indices as they best reflect
the Company’s peer group and industrial sectors.
Ten-year TSR graph
TSR rebased to 100 on 31 March 2014
0
100
200
300
400
Trifast FTSE All Share Industrial Engineering Index FTSE All Share IndexFTSE Small Cap Index
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 20242023
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Performance and pay
The table below shows the single figure of remuneration and levels of bonus and equity payouts for the Group CEO during the past ten years:
Financial year
Total single
figure of
remuneration
£000
Annual cash
bonus
payout
against
maximum
Equity
award
payout
against
maximum
2024 432
1
0% 0%
2023 445
2
0% 0%
2022 505 23.7% 0%
2021 366 n/a 0%
2020 383 0% 0%
2019 367 0% n/a
2018 629 70% n/a
2017 811 100% 100%
3
2016 641
4
50% 100%
3
2015 766 100% 100%
3
1. Includes a full year of CEO remuneration; including remuneration paid to Scott Mac Meekin (interim CEO) from 1 April 2023 to 19 September 2023 and remuneration for Iain Percival from 20 September 2023 to 31 March 2024
2. Includes a full year of CEO remuneration; including remuneration paid to Mark Belton from 1 April 2022 to 18 February 2023 and remuneration for Scott Mac Meekin (interim CEO) from 20 February 2023 to 31 March 2023
3. This is the vesting of the deferred equity awards under a previous policy
4. Includes a full year of CEO remuneration; including remuneration paid to Jim Barker from 1 April 2015 to 30 September 2015 and remuneration for Mark Belton from 1 October 2015 to 31 March 2016
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Annual report on remuneration continued
Percentage change in Directors’ remuneration compared to employees
The table below compares the percentage increase in each Director’s pay with the average pay of the Company’s colleagues in the listed entity on a full‑time equivalent basis. Please note
that given the significant changes in Executive Directorships during FY23 and FY24 there are a number of significant increases/decreases as a result of this, which are fully explained in
the notes below.
% change from FY23 to FY24 % change from FY22 to FY23 % change from FY21 to FY22 % change from FY20 to FY21
Salary/
fees
Taxable
benefits
Annual
bonus
12
Salary/
fees
Taxable
benefits
Annual
bonus
12
Salary/
fees
10
Taxable
benefits
Annual
bonus
12
Salary/
fees
10
Taxable
benefits
Annual
bonus
Iain Percival (CEO)
1
n/a n/a n/a
n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
Scott Mac Meekin (interim CEO,
previously NED)
2
101.1% 450.0% n/a 82.4% n/a n/a 6.3% n/a n/a (4.6)% n/a n/a
Darren Hayes‑Powell (CFO)
3
168.0% 185.7% n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
Serena Lang (NED and Chair)
4
n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a (4.6)% 0.0% n/a
Jonathan Shearman (previous
NED and Chair)
5
(15.6)% n/a n/a 14.1% n/a n/a 7.1% n/a n/a 216.0% n/a n/a
Clive Watson (Senior Independent
NED)
6
0.0% n/a n/a 3.2% n/a n/a 55.0% n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
Claire Balmforth (previous NED)
7
0.0% n/a n/a 3.6% n/a n/a 5.7% n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
Louis Eperjesi (NED)
8
346.2% n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
Laura Whyte (NED)
9
n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
Nicholas Mills (NED)
n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
Average employee
11
12.0% 22.2% (98.3)% 17. 9% 35.0% 396.5% (5.6)% 12.0% (39.5)% 27.1% 43.3% (37.2)%
1. Iain Percival was appointed CEO on 20 September 2023
2. Scott Mac Meekin was appointed interim CEO on 20 February 2023 and then stepped down from this role on 19 September 2023. He received NED fees only prior to 20 February 2023. Therefore, the change from 2022 to
2023 and from 2023 to 2024 reflects these changes in role
3. Darren Hayes‑Powell was appointed to the Board on 1 December 2022 and then left this role on 21 February 2024
4. Serena Lang was appointed to the Board on 10 August 2023 and was then appointed as Chair on 14 September 2024 following Jonathan Shearman’s retirement
5. Jonathan Shearman was appointed as Chair of the Board on 1 April 2020. Therefore, the increase in fees between 2020 and 2021 set out above reflects the change from his previous role as NED and Remuneration Committee
Chair. The increase in fees between 2022 and 2023 is due to the Chair fee being temporarily increased while spending additional time supporting the interim CEO, as set out above. He then retired on 14 September 2023
6. Clive Watson was appointed to the Board on 30 July 2020. The increase from 2021 to 2022 reflects the fact that he only served for eight months as a Director during FY21
7. Claire Balmforth was appointed to the Board on 1 April 2020 and retired on 1 April 2024
8. Louis Eperjesi was appointed to the Board on 3 January 2023
9. Laura Whyte was appointed to the Board on 11 March 2024
10. Salary/fees for Directors who remained in the same role for FY20 and FY21 showed a 4.6% decrease between 2020 and 2021 as a result of the 20% reduction in pay taken by the Board in Q1 of FY21. Therefore, the increases
between 2021 to 2022 are higher than the FY22 salary and fee increases awarded given the temporary reduction in FY21 pay
11. In line with the regulations, the average employee percentage changes only include employees of Trifast plc, excluding Directors (22 employees as at 31 March 2024). The annual bonus increase has been calculated based on
bonus paid in the year rather than those earned in the same period
12. Annual bonus increase is n/a due to Executive Directors not receiving a bonus or not being employed at the start or end of the period
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Relative importance of spend on pay
The following table shows the relative spend on pay during the past two financial years when compared to other disbursements from profit:
Year to
31 March
2024
Year to
31 March
2023 Change
Dividend distributions
£2.43m
£3.02m (19.5)%
Group spend on pay (including Directors)
£38.79m
£41.57m (6.69)%
Other pay
£6.85m
£7.69m (10.9)%
Total remuneration
1
£45.64m
£49.26m (7.3)%
1. Total remuneration excludes IFRS 2 Share‑based Payments credit of £1.0m (FY23: <£0.1m). Including this, total remuneration would be £44.64m (FY23: £49.3m)
The following section, until page 128, is auditable.
Executive Director remuneration for the year ended 31 March 2024
Executive Director single figure of remuneration
Annual bonus
5
Salary/fees
£000
Taxable
benefits
4
£000
Cash
£000
Shares
£000
LTIP
6
£000
Pensions
7
£000
Other
8
£000
Total
fixed
£000
Total
variable
£000
Total
£000
Iain Percival
1
212 11 — — — 11 0 234 0 234
Prior year n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
Scott Mac Meekin
2
186 11 — — — — 0 197 0 197
Prior year 93 2 — — — — 10 95 10 105
Darren Hayes‑Powell
3
268 20 — — — 13 3 301 3 304
Prior year 100 7 — — — 5 5 112 5 117
Totals 666 42 — — — 24 3 732 3 735
Prior year totals 193 9 — — — 5 15 207 15 722
1. Iain Percival was appointed to the role of CEO on 20 September 2023
2. Scott Mac Meekin was appointed to the role of interim CEO on 20 February 2023 and stepped down from this role on 19 September 2023. His salary/fees in FY23 include his fees for services when he was a Non‑Executive
Director. 90% of Scott Mac Meekin’s salary was paid in Singaporean $ and 10% in GBP, in line with his service contract
3. Darren Hayes‑Powell was appointed to the role of CFO on 1 December 2022 and he left this role on 21 February 2024
4. Taxable benefits included the cost of providing a company car (or car allowance), private medical insurance and critical illness cover
5. No annual bonus was earned for FY23 and FY24. See additional details in relation to the annual bonus element of remuneration below
6. The performance period of the FY22 LTIP award granted on 3 August 2021 ended on 31 March 2024 and therefore its value (£nil) is included in the LTIP column for FY24. See additional details on the performance outcomes
of the FY22 LTIP and the FY24 LTIP award granted in the year below on page 124
7. Iain Percival and Darren Hayes‑Powell were members of the Company’s non‑contributory pension plan in FY24. This is an HMRC‑approved defined contribution scheme. The rate of Company contribution to this scheme is
5% of base salary. The Executive Directors are also provided the option to take pension payments in the form of a cash allowance, after a deduction for Employer’s National Insurance. In FY24, Iain Percival chose to take a
proportion of his pension as a cash allowance. No Executive Directors participate in a defined benefit scheme
8. Other expenses relate to relocation expenses when appointed to the role
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Executive Director remuneration for the year ended 31 March 2024 continued
(i) Annual bonus for year ended 31 March 2024
Scott Mac Meekin had a maximum annual bonus opportunity of 150% of salary. Darren Hayes‑Powell had a maximum annual bonus opportunity of 125% of salary which was pro‑rated for
time served in the year in line with his status as a good leaver. Iain Percival had a maximum annual bonus opportunity of 150% of salary which was pro‑rated for time served in the year.
The annual bonus measures were based 70% on underlying profit before tax, 20% on average working capital percentage targets and 10% on strategic/operational targets (5% weighting
on a carbon emissions reduction target aligned with the Company’s ESG strategy and 5% weighting on reducing Group net debt). In line with policy, the average working capital and
strategic and operational measures will only pay out if the threshold underlying profit before tax performance target has been achieved, to ensure alignment between the annual bonus
outturn and underlying corporate performance. The table below provides information on the targets for each measure, actual performance and resulting bonus payments:
Performance required Actual performance Scott Mac Meekin Iain Percival Darren Hayes‑Powell
Measure Weighting Threshold On target Maximum Actual
% of element
payable
Achievement
as % salary
Bonus value
£000
Achievement
as % salary
Bonus value
£000
Achievement
as % salary
Bonus value
£000
Underlying profit
before tax
70% £10.8m £12.0m £14.5m £6.5m nil% nil% nil nil% nil nil% nil
Average working
capital percentage
20% 53% 49% 45% 40.8% nil% nil% nil nil% nil nil% nil
Strategic/operational
targets
10%
Objectives based on
strategic/operational
See above nil% nil% nil nil% nil nil% nil
Total bonus
achieved in FY24
nil% nil nil% nil nil% nil
Given that the threshold target under the underlying profit before tax measure was not achieved, the payout from the average working capital % is set to nil.
FY24 annual bonus outcomes: strategic/operational objectives
Given that the threshold target under the underlying profit before tax measure was not achieved, the payout from the strategic and operational measures is also automatically set at nil,
such that the Remuneration Committee was not required to test their achievement for FY24. However, in line with our commitment to provide transparency in relation to both of these
bonus elements, we set out below a summary of these measures and their achievement for FY24.
Objective FY24 achievements
ESG – GHG emissions 31.8% carbon emission reduction since 2019 against a target of 21.0%
Group adjusted net debt Group adjusted net debt reduced from £38.0m to £21.0m
Overall, there is no FY24 annual bonus payable for any Executive Director that served during the year which the Committee noted was in line with the underlying performance of
the Company.
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Executive Director remuneration for the year ended 31 March 2024 continued
(ii) LTIP performance period ending in the year ended 31 March 2024
None of the current Executive Directors were granted a FY22 LTIP award on 3 August 2021. For completeness, the performance conditions attached to this award, and Trifast’s
performance against them, are set out below. The three‑year performance period for these awards ended on 31 March 2024 and they were granted subject to the achievement of certain
EPS (70% weighting) and relative TSR (30% weighting) targets. We set out the targets and outcomes in the table below:
Underlying diluted EPS (70% weighting)
TSR growth
1
vs FTSE Small Cap excl. IT Index
(30% weighting)
Trifast
underlying
diluted EPS
growth
EPS growth
required for
25% vesting
EPS growth
required for
72% vesting
EPS growth
required for
100% vesting Vesting
Trifast
TSR
growth
Index growth
required for
25% vesting
Index growth +
8% p.a.
required for
100% vesting Vesting
Overall
vesting
(36.2)% p.a. 16% p.a. 25% p.a. 37% p.a. nil% (40.8)% 8.1% 32.1% nil%
nil%
1. TSR growth for Trifast and the FTSE Small Cap Index (excluding investment trusts) was measured using a three‑month average prior to the start and the end of the three‑year performance period
No FY22 LTIP awards will vest on 3 August 2024 based on the assessment of the performance conditions and there would have been no vesting amount attributable to share price
appreciation. The Committee acknowledged that the FY22 LTIP outcome was aligned with Company performance as well as shareholders’ experience and hence no discretion was
exercised.
The Committee is comfortable that the current policy operated as intended.
(iii) LTIP awards granted in the year ended 31 March 2024
FY24 LTIP awards were granted to Iain Percival and Darren Hayes‑Powell on 28 November 2023. Darren Hayes‑Powell left his role as CFO on 21 February 2024 and was deemed to be a
good leaver. Therefore, his award will be pro‑rated for time served during the vesting period, subject to the achievement of performance targets.
The normal vesting date of the FY24 LTIP awards will be the third anniversary of their award date and, once vested, shares will be subject to a two‑year holding period. No consideration
was paid for the awards, which were structured as a nil‑cost option.
The table below sets out further details of the FY24 LTIP awards where vesting will be determined according to the achievement of appropriate performance measures.
Date of grant
Type of
award
Award as
% of base
salary
Face value
of award
Face value
of award at
threshold
vesting
No. of
shares
1
Vesting
period
Iain Percival 28 November 2023 Nil‑cost option 150% £600,000 £150,000 814,553 3 years
Darren Hayes‑Powell 28 November 2023 Nil‑cost option 125% £375,000 £93,750 509,095 3 years
1. This was calculated using a share price of £0.7366, being the average share price for the five days immediately before 28 November 2023
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Executive Director remuneration for the year ended 31 March 2024 continued
(iii) LTIP awards granted in the year ended 31 March 2024 continued
The awards will vest subject to achieving the following targets:
Measure Performance period Performance level Vesting (% of award)
1
Underlying Operating Margin (UOM)
in FY26 (25% weighting)
2
3 financial years ending from
31 March 2026
Below 8.2% nil
8.2% (threshold) 25%
9.1% 50%
10.0% 75%
11.0% (maximum) and above 100%
Relative TSR
3
vs FTSE All Share Index
(75% weighting)
3 financial years ending from
31 March 2026
Below index return nil
Equal to index return (threshold) 25%
8.0% p.a. in excess of index return (maximum) 100%
1. Vesting between the various performance levels will be determined on a straight‑line basis
2. UOM is defined as underlying operating profit as a percentage of sales
3. TSR growth for Trifast and the FTSE All Share Index will be measured using a three‑month average prior to the start and the end of the three‑year performance period
The Committee will have overriding discretion to change the formulaic outcome (both downwards and upwards) if it is out of line with the underlying performance of the Company and
this will include an assessment of whether any windfall gains have been made.
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Non-Executive Director single figure of remuneration
Base fee
£000
Chairing of
Audit,
Remuneration
or Responsible
Business
Committee
£000
Committee
membership
£000
Senior
Independent
Director
£000
Total
£000
Jonathan Shearman
1
123 — — — 123
Prior year 146 — — — 146
Clive Watson 45 8 5 6 64
Prior year 45 8 5 6 64
Claire Balmforth
2
45 8 5 — 58
Prior year 45 8 5 — 58
Louis Eperjesi
3
45 8 5 — 58
Prior year 11 — 2 — 13
Serena Lang
4
87 n/a n/a n/a 87
Prior year n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
Laura Whyte
5
3 — — — 3
Prior year n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
Nicholas Mills
6
n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
Prior year n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
Totals 348 24 15 6 393
Prior year totals 247 16 12 6 281
1. Jonathan Shearman’s Chair fee temporarily increased in March 2023 while spending additional time supporting the interim CEO during FY24
2. Claire Balmforth retired on 1 April 2024
3. Louis Eperjesi was appointed to the Board on 3 January 2023
4. Serena Lang was appointed to the Board on 10 August 2023
5. Laura Whyte was appointed to the Board on 11 March 2024
6. Nicholas Mills was appointed to the Board on 20 October 2023 and waived his fee until 1 April 2024
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Payments to past Directors
There were no payments to past Directors in FY24. It should be noted that Clare Foster retained a proportion of her FY22 LTIP award upon leaving due to her being deemed a good leaver,
but this award lapsed as the performance targets were not achieved. Further details can be found on page 124.
Payment for loss of office
Darren Hayes‑Powell left his role as Chief Financial Officer on 21 February 2024. In line with the 2023 Policy regarding loss of office payments, the Remuneration Committee determined
that Darren be treated as a good leaver. Therefore, in line with Policy he will receive:
• 12 months of fixed pay in respect of his notice period (£300,000 base salary, pension contribution of £15,000, £23,163 in relation to benefits and a payment of £14,418 for 11 days of
accrued holiday entitlement)
• Annual bonus pro‑rated for time served during FY24, subject to the achievement of performance targets (as set out above, Darren’s FY24 annual bonus was £nil)
• In‑flight FY24 LTIP awards pro‑rated for time served during the vesting period and vesting on their normal dates subject to the achievement of performance targets
• An additional payment of £5,000 reflective of legal fees
Statement of Directors’ shareholdings
In‑employment
shareholding
requirement
1
Current
beneficial
holding
2
Vested but
unexercised
options
Executive Directors
Iain Percival 1,339,405 163,215 n/a
Scott Mac Meekin (as at 19 September 2023)
3
n/a n/a n/a
Darren Hayes‑Powell (as at 21 February 2024)
4
n/a 11,158 n/a
Non-Executive Directors
Jonathan Shearman (as at 14 September 2023) n/a 23,571 n/a
Clive Watson n/a 92,975 n/a
Claire Balmforth (as at 1 April 2024) n/a n/a n/a
Louis Eperjesi n/a 13,000 n/a
Laura Whyte n/a 19,500 n/a
Nicholas Mills n/a 40,000 n/a
Serena Lang n/a 171,285 n/a
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Statement of Directors’ shareholdings continued
LTIP awards
subject to
performance
conditions
SAYE
options
Total of all
interests
on 31 March
2024
Current shares
which count
toward
in‑employment
shareholding
requirements
2
In‑employment
shareholding
requirement
met?
1
Executive Directors
Iain Percival 814,553 n/a 977,76 8 163,215 No
Scott Mac Meekin (as at 19 September 2023)
3
n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
Darren Hayes‑Powell (as at 21 February 2024)
4
42,425 n/a 11,158 n/a n/a
Non-Executive Directors
Jonathan Shearman n/a n/a 23,571 n/a n/a
Clive Watson n/a n/a 92,975 n/a n/a
Claire Balmforth n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
Louis Eperjesi n/a n/a 13,000 n/a n/a
Laura Whyte n/a n/a 19,500 n/a n/a
Nicholas Mills n/a n/a 40,000 n/a n/a
Serena Lang n/a n/a 171,285 n/a n/a
1. Under the existing policy, there is a 250% of salary in‑employment shareholding requirement for Executive Directors. This is to be built up over five years from 15 September 2023, the date the current remuneration policy was
approved by shareholders, or date of joining if later. The number of shares shown is based on the 31 March 2024 share price of £0.746
2. Total of current beneficial holding, SAYE options, and vested but unexercised options on a net‑of‑tax basis
3. Scott Mac Meekin did not participate in any share‑based incentive plan during his term as interim CEO
4. In line with the 2023 Policy, Darren Hayes‑Powell is subject to a two‑year post‑employment shareholding requirement
Between 31 March 2024 and 26 July 2024 there were no further movements in the Directors’ shareholdings from those disclosed in the table above.
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Service contracts for Executive Directors
The service contract for Iain Percival is not fixed term. The service contract is terminable by either the Company or the Director on the following bases:
Notice
period
Date of
signing
Iain Percival
1
12 months 12 September 2023
The Directors’ contracts are kept and can be viewed at the Company’s registered office. Executive Directors are subject to annual re‑election at the Company’s Annual General Meeting.
Non-Executive Directors’ letters of appointment
The Non‑Executive Directors do not have service contracts but are appointed under letters of appointment. Clive Watson was appointed on 30 July 2020, Louis Eperjesi was appointed
on 3 January 2023, Serena Lang was appointed on 10 August 2023, Nicholas Mills was appointed 20 October 2023 and Laura Whyte was appointed on 11 March 2024. All Non‑Executive
Directors are subject to annual re‑election at the Company’s AGM.
The table below sets out the date that each Non‑Executive Director signed their current letter of appointment and the notice period by which their appointment may be terminated early
by either party. For new appointments, the notice period is three months and in line with the existing Non‑Executive Directors’ arrangements, set out in the 2014 Directors’ remuneration
policy, this will be extended to 12 months on a change of control. The Directors’ letters of appointment are kept and can be viewed at the Company’s registered office.
Non‑Executive Director
Notice
period
Date of
signing
Clive Watson
1
3 months 20 April 2020
Louis Eperjesi
1
3 months 22 November 2022
Serena Lang
1
3 months 7 August 2023
Nicholas Mills
1
3 months 16 October 2023
Laura Whyte 3 months 11 March 2024
1. Although signing appointment letters prior to the appointment, dates that each Director was appointed can be seen in the two tables above
Functioning of Remuneration Committee
The role of the Committee is to ensure that the remuneration arrangements for Executive Directors provide them with the motivation to deliver our strategy and create shareholder
value in a sustainable manner. In addition, it is our task to ensure that the remuneration received by the Executive Directors is proportionate to the performance achieved and the returns
received by you as shareholders.
The Committee is composed entirely of Non‑Executive Directors. Members have no day‑to‑day involvement in the running of the business. No Executive Director sits on the Committee.
The Remuneration Committee is formally constituted with written terms of reference. A copy of the terms of reference is available to shareholders on the website www.trifast.com or by
writing to the Company Secretary, whose details are set out on page 232 of this publication.
Alongside numerous conference calls and meetings with advisers, the Committee had six formal meetings during the year. All Committee meetings were fully attended by members in
appointment at the time of the meeting. The key activities the Committee undertook during the year can be seen on page 108.
On most occasions, the CEO and CFO were invited to attend to ensure the Committee was in possession of all the relevant facts. The Committee consults with the Company Secretary and
Interim Transformation & HR Director regarding remuneration and corporate governance issues. With regard to the Senior Management in the Company (excluding Board Directors),
the Committee also takes advice from the Executive Leadership Team.
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Functioning of the remuneration Committee
During the year, the Committee received independent advice from PwC in relation to general remuneration matters. PwC was appointed by the Committee and the fees paid by the
Company to PwC for all services provided during the financial year were £151,550 (excluding VAT). This included a significant amount of work in relation to the development of the New
Policy and operational support for management. The fees were charged on a fixed time and materials basis. The Group also retains PwC regarding taxation services and consulting
services in the ordinary course of business. The Committee believes that this does not create a conflict of interest and the advice they receive is independent and objective. PwC is a
signatory to the Remuneration Consultants’ Code of Conduct which requires its advice to be objective and impartial. PwC does not have any other connections with the Company or its
Directors.
Statement of AGM voting
The table below shows the actual voting on the 2023 remuneration report and 2023 remuneration policy at the AGM held on 15 September 2023:
Votes
for %
Votes
against %
Votes
withheld
2023 remuneration report 78,382,028 79.99% 19,605,842 20.01% 238,309
2023 remuneration policy 78,652,403 80.23% 19,380,051 19.77% 193,725
At the Company’s 2023 AGM, 79.99% votes were received in favour of Resolution 2, the advisory vote to approve the Directors’ remuneration report for the year ended 31 March 2023.
In accordance with Provision 4 of the UK Corporate Governance Code, the Company published a statement on 14 December 2023 providing an update on the views received from
shareholders and actions taken following the vote. Prior to the statement, our Chair engaged with a number of our largest shareholders to better understand their views on remuneration
at Trifast. The key theme that emerged from these discussions was the approach to long‑term incentives and there were differing views in relation to the most appropriate long‑term
incentive arrangement to align the interests of shareholders and executives.
In light of the above feedback, and as set out in this report, the Committee has reviewed the Policy and proposed a new long‑term incentive arrangement. The Committee undertook an
extensive consultation with the Company’s 15 largest shareholders, representing over 70% of the issued share capital and the main shareholder representative bodies (IA, ISS, Glass Lewis)
in relation to the New Policy. Please see page 105 in the Committee Chair’s statement which sets out the key themes that emerged and the actions taken as a result.
The Committee is grateful for the time that shareholders have taken to consider proposals and provide feedback.
This report was approved by the Board of Directors and signed on its behalf by:
Laura Whyte
Chair of Remuneration Committee
26 July 2024
Directors’ remuneration report continued
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Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
This new Directors’ Remuneration Policy
(‘New Policy’) will be put to a binding
shareholder vote at the AGM on 10
September 2024 and, if approved, will
take effect immediately upon conclusion
of the meeting. It is intended that the New
Policy will remain in force for three years
and there are no planned changes to it
over the period to which it applies. The
New Policy was developed independently
by the Remuneration Committee and
is summarised on two pages in the
Remuneration Committee Chair’s statement.
Background
Our CEO has now been in the role for over
nine months and has made significant
strides in setting a new strategy and
building an executive team to deliver it.
The turnaround strategy is built to see
Trifast recover from the past years of
underperformance, rebuilding growth
through a One TR approach to profitability
and ultimately establishing a resilient future,
delivering innovative and sustainable
engineered fastening solutions to our broad
range of customers.
In light of the Company’s financial
underperformance in recent times,
which has led to significant changes in
strategy to support Trifast’s ongoing
transformation, and the need to retain key
senior management, the Committee felt
it appropriate to review the current Policy
to ensure that it remains fit for purpose
and, in particular, test whether the current
Policy provided a remuneration framework
whichwould:
• Stabilise and motivate the executive team
to execute the turnaround plan by locking
them in for a three‑to‑five‑year period as
soon as practicably possible
• Fully align reward outcomes with the
shareholder experience as a result of the
execution of the turnaround plan
Based on the findings from its review, the
Committee determined that some elements
of the current Policy remain fit for purpose
as they are aligned with standard market
practice and support our commitment to
aligning reward with performance. However,
the LTIP structure of performance shares
based on three‑year financial measures
provides the Committee with a significant
challenge in calibrating the targets
to ensure that they are appropriately
stretching and aligned with investors’
interests through a turnaround period, such
that this arrangement was not deemed to
be appropriate at the current time.
The Committee concluded that a new FY25
LTIP structure is required to both retain and
incentivise the executive team to deliver the
transformation required for Trifast over the
next three to five years. After consideration
of a range of alternatives, including a
standard Performance Share Plan structure,
the Committee determined that the most
appropriate approach is to grant a special,
one‑off award in the form of market priced
options with vesting based on hitting
specified share price hurdles. In taking this
approach it was viewed that:
• The proposal is simple and transparent
and will be well understood by all
stakeholders
• There is a need to stabilise the executive
team to deliver the turnaround plan and
this structure aims to achieve that by
locking the team in at the start of the
plan
• The award is front‑loaded such that
the executive team is fully aligned from
day one, but they are rewarded for
performance over the next five years
• A fixed number of market value options
combined with share price hurdles
provide a definite alignment between
payouts to management and the creation
of value for shareholders. The approach
is robust and flexible enough to deal with
macroeconomic uncertainty, particularly
given that setting financial‑based targets
is not required
• Our major shareholders are strong
advocates of absolute return based
incentives, given Trifast’s current
position, and of the use of market priced
options rather than awarding whole
shares to ensure that management are
not rewarded for failure
In addition, the Committee determined that,
to better align the interests of Executive
Directors with those of the shareholders, the
current bonus deferral mechanism will be
enhanced so that 50% of any bonus paid will
be deferred into shares for three years from
the current approach whereby any bonus in
excess of 100% of salary will be deferred
As set out above, the Committee
determined to make the following changes
to the Policy.
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ remuneration policy
Summary of changes to Policy versus 2023 policy
Element Changes to 2023 Policy Rationale
Annual bonus The current bonus deferral mechanism will be enhanced so that 50% of any bonus
paid will be deferred into shares for three years, and will have the ability to provide
dividend equivalent on deferred shares
• To better align the interests of Executive Directors with those of the
shareholders
• To better align with corporate governance best practice and standard
marketpractice
FY25 LTIP The current LTIP structure of annual awards of nil‑cost options vesting based on
corporate performance over a three‑year period will be replaced by a one‑off grant
of market priced options where the exercise price is set equal to Trifast’s share
price shortly before the date of grant
The CEO and each other Executive Director will have a maximum award of market
priced options which is equivalent to 2.2% and 1.3% of the issued share capital
(ISC) respectively. This will be the only long‑term incentive award granted to the
Executive Directors over the three‑year Policy period
The options will vest when share price hurdles have been met during a five‑year
period beginning on the date of grant (the ‘performance period’)
Any options that have met a share price hurdle, although vested, will be subject
to a continued employment condition. In addition, a performance underpin will
apply to the awards such that the Committee will be required to assess underlying
corporate performance ahead of the exercise of any options
Options will become exercisable as follows:
• Options that vest before the third anniversary of grant: One‑third of these
vested options will become exercisable on the third, fourth and fifth anniversary
of grant
• Any further options that vest between the third and fourth anniversary of grant:
Half of these vested options will become exercisable on the fourth and fifth
anniversary of grant
• Any further options that vest between the fourth and fifth anniversary of grant:
These vested options will become exercisable on the fifth anniversary of grant
A holding period will apply such that the executives cannot sell any shares until
the fifth anniversary of grant, albeit they will be able to sell shares to cover any tax
falling due on exercise
Malus and clawback will continue to apply
The Committee will retain overriding discretion to change formulaic outcomes
of FY25 LTIP awards (both downwards and upwards) if they are out of line with
underlying performance of the Company
This is set out above the table. In addition, the Committee is comfortable with this
structure on the basis that:
• The continued employment condition, staggered exercise timeline and holding
period ensures that for the Executive Directors to benefit, performance must be
sustainable such that the FY25 LTIP rewards long‑term performance
• The proposal aligns with the UK Corporate Governance Code, in that the
Executive Team cannot sell any shares, i.e. release any value through exercising
their market value options, until the fifth anniversary of grant
The Committee is also comfortable with the award levels under this proposal as
reaching the maximum share price hurdle of £1.40 on exercise would deliver
c.£1m net of tax to the CEO which the Committee feels would be an appropriate
payout given Trifast’s size and the increased share value investors would receive
(£85.5m increase in market cap) – all figures calculated in March 2024
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ remuneration policy continued
1) Policy tables – Executives
Purpose Operation Maximum opportunity
Base salary
To provide competitive
salary levels recognising the
market value of the role and
individual’s skills, experience
and performance as well
as their contribution and
enable the recruitment and
retention of high‑calibre
executives
Base salary is set annually on 1 July. Base salary levels are reviewed annually by the
Committee, taking account of Company performance, individual performance, and
levels of increase for the broader Trifast UK employee population. The Committee
will target median salaries within the FTSE Small Cap Index companies
The Committee also considers the impact of any base salary increase on the
total remuneration package. Increases awarded each year will be set out in the
statement of implementation of Policy
The maximum annual salary increase will not normally exceed the average
increase which applies across the wider Trifast UK employee population
Larger increases may be awarded subject to performance in the following
circumstances:
I. A material change in the role and responsibilities of the Executive Director
II. Strategic progress and key milestones have been achieved; however, an
Executive Director’s salary remains below the median of the FTSE Small
CapIndex
III. An Executive Director has been appointed either internally or externally at
below the market level to reflect experience
Benefits
To provide a competitive
level of benefits and
encourage the wellbeing and
engagement of employees
The key benefits provided to the Executive Directors include:
• Company car (or car allowance)
• Private medical insurance
• Critical illness cover and life cover
In addition, the Company pays additional benefits when specific business
circumstances require it. Accordingly, the Committee would expect to be able
to adopt benefits such as relocation expenses, tax equalisation and support in
meeting specific costs incurred by Executive Directors to ensure the Company and
the individuals comply with their obligations in the reporting of remuneration
Where the Company offers a flexible benefits approach (where the value of one
benefit may be exchanged for another) to employees, generally an Executive
Director would have the option to participate. Other benefits may be offered at
thediscretion of the Committee
The Company reimburses all necessary and reasonable business expenses
Capped at the cost of providing the benefits
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Directors’ remuneration policy continued
Purpose Operation Maximum opportunity
Pension
To provide a standard UK
market level of retirement
funding to enable the
Company to recruit and
retain Directors with the
experience and expertise to
deliver the Group’s strategy
Executive Directors participate in defined contribution pension arrangements.
Executive Directors may request a pension allowance to be paid in cash, after
deducting employer National Insurance costs, in place of defined contribution
arrangements
Executive Directors will receive a pension contribution in line with the rate
available to the majority of the workforce, i.e. currently 5% of salary
All-employee share plan (SAYE)
Facilitate equity involvement
for executives and UK‑based
employees
The Trifast plc Save As You Earn Plan 2024 will offer three and five‑year savings
contracts which provide an option to purchase shares after maturity at a discount
to the share price at invitation (the maximum discount is 20%)
Annual savings limit in line with HMRC limit
Annual bonus
To encourage and reward
delivery and execution of
short‑term financial and
non‑financial performance
in line with shareholder
interests
Executive Directors are eligible to participate in the annual bonus. Each year the
Committee selects the performance measures, assessed over the financial year,
which it considers appropriate to support the Company’s strategic priorities and
the delivery of value to shareholders. The weighting and targets for each measure
will also be set annually by the Committee
Targets deemed commercially sensitive by the Board will be reported
retrospectively in the following year’s remuneration report
The Committee will have overriding discretion to change formulaic outcomes (both
downwards and upwards) if they are out of line with the underlying performance
of the Company. In addition, the Committee has the discretion to adjust targets or
performance conditions for any exceptional events that may occur during the year
Malus will apply during the bonus year and the share deferral vesting period and
clawback will apply for a period of two years post bonus payment and deferred
share vesting (see Policy on malus and clawback below). Dividend equivalents may
be payable on deferred shares
The maximum annual award level is 150% of base salary, 50% of any annual
bonus earned will be paid in cash and 50% will be deferred into shares for a
period of three years
The percentage of bonus earned for differing levels of performance is:
I. Threshold: 25% of maximum opportunity
II. Target: 50% of maximum opportunity
III. Stretch: 100% of maximum opportunity
1) Policy tables – Executives continued
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ remuneration policy continued
Purpose Operation Maximum opportunity
FY25 Long-Term Incentive Plan
To incentivise the delivery
of the Group’s long‑term
business strategy and
sustainable value for
shareholders
The Committee will make a one‑off grant of a fixed number of market priced
options where the exercise price is set equal to Trifast’s share price shortly before
the date of grant
The options will vest when share price hurdles have been met during a five‑year
period beginning on the date of grant (the ‘performance period’)
Any options that have met a share price hurdle, although vested, will continue to be
subject to a continued employment condition. In addition, a performance underpin
will apply to the awards such that the Committee will be required to assess
underlying corporate performance ahead of the exercise of any options
Options will become exercisable as follows:
• Options that vest before the third anniversary of grant: One‑third of these
vested options will become exercisable on the third, fourth and fifth anniversary
of grant
• Any further options that vest between the third and fourth anniversary of grant:
Half of these vested options will become exercisable on the fourth and fifth
anniversary of grant
• Any further options that vest between the fourth and fifth anniversary of grant:
These vested options will become exercisable on the fifth anniversary of grant
A holding period will apply such that the executives cannot sell any shares until
the fifth anniversary of grant, albeit they will be able to sell shares to cover any tax
falling due on exercise
Malus will apply during the period when the awards are not exercisable, and
clawback will apply for two years post the awards becoming exercisable (see
Policy on malus and clawback below)
The Committee will retain overriding discretion to change formulaic outcomes
of FY25 LTIP awards (both downwards and upwards) if they are out of line with
underlying performance of the Company
The CEO and each other Executive Director will have a maximum award of
market priced options which is equivalent to 2.2% and 1.3% of the issued share
capital (ISC) respectively. This will be the only long‑term incentive award
granted to the Executive Directors over the three‑year Policy period
100% of the awards are subject to share price hurdles. Threshold vesting of
20% will be achieved for reaching a minimum share price hurdle. Vesting then
increases in 20% increments up to maximum vesting for achieving the maximum
share price hurdle (please see performance measures and targets section for
further details)
1) Policy tables – Executives continued
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ remuneration policy continued
Operation Post-employment requirement
Shareholding requirement
A 250% of salary in‑employment shareholding requirement for all Executive Directors. This is to be
built up over five years from the approval of this Policy for existing Executive Directors and from
the date of joining for new Executive Directors
Shares beneficially owned, the post‑tax value of any vested but unexercised LTIP awards and the
post‑tax value of any annual bonus deferral shares will count towards the requirement
The Committee will annually review the progress against achievement of these guidelines
Post‑employment, an Executive Director shall continue to hold shares equivalent to the minimum
of their actual shareholding on cessation of employment and their in‑employment shareholding
requirement for a period of two years following termination of employment
Legacy incentive awards
Executive Directors are eligible to receive payments under any award made prior to the approval and implementation of the remuneration Policy set out above under existing incentive
arrangements. For the avoidance of doubt, it is noted that the Company will honour any commitments entered that have been disclosed previously to shareholders.
Performance measures and targets
The table below sets out the performance measures chosen in respect of the annual bonus and FY25 LTIP in respect of the financial year ending 31 March 2025.
Performance measures
and weightings
Performance targets Why targets were chosen How targets are set
Annual bonus
• 60% based on underlying profit before tax
(UPBT) targets
• 20% based on average working capital %
targets
• 20% based on strategic and operational
targets based on the execution of the
transformation plan and include specific
sustainability objectives
• No bonus payment can be made unless
threshold UPBT performance has been
achieved
The Board deems the annual bonus targets
to be commercially sensitive. Full details of
the FY25 targets and their achievement will
be disclosed retrospectively in the FY25
Directors’ remuneration report
The performance measures that have been
selected, in the Committee’s view, most
appropriately reflect the Company’s
strategy to:
• Focus on generating strong and
sustainable profits for the benefit of
shareholders
• Focus on operational efficiency
• Focus on delivering challenging specific
strategic and operational targets which
support the transformation
The performance targets are calibrated by
the Committee considering the Company’s
business plan, strategic and operational
imperatives, market conditions and external
forecasts
1) Policy tables – Executives continued
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ remuneration policy continued
1) Policy tables – Executives continued
Performance measures and targets continued
Performance measures
and weightings
Performance targets Why targets were chosen How targets are set
FY25 LTIP
• 100% based on share price hurdles
• Performance underpin
Threshold vesting of 20% will be achieved
for reaching a minimum share price hurdle
and vesting then increases in 20% increments
up to maximum vesting at a share price of
£1.40. It should be noted that the Committee
will determine the minimum share price
hurdle closer to the date of grant, taking
account of the share price at that time and
the Committee’s desire to provide a timely
retentive impact, given the lack of incentive
payouts over a number of years for many of
the executive team. To provide an illustrative
example of the minimum hurdle, if it was
set currently with Trifast’s share price being
around 75p, the Committee would determine
c.80p to be appropriate
Share price (£) Vesting
To be determined
closer to the grant
date
20%
TBC TBC
TBC TBC
TBC TBC
£1.40 100%
Once each share price hurdle, averaged over a
30‑day period, has been met at any point during
the five‑year performance period, the awards
will have vested but remain subject to continued
employment and a performance underpin.
The Committee will assess whether the vested
options should become exercisable on the
third, fourth and fifth anniversaries of grant,
taking into account EBIT and the underlying
operating margin performance to ensure that
any payout is consistent with internal progress
through the turnaround period
A fixed number of market value options
combined with share price hurdles provide
a definite alignment between payouts to
management and the creation of value for
shareholders. The approach is robust and
flexible enough to deal with macroeconomic
uncertainty, particularly given that setting
financial‑based targets is not required
The potential gearing in the FY25 LTIP ensures
that the executive team are fully incentivised
to continue to drive performance beyond the
maximum vesting share price hurdle
The Committee retains the discretion to vary
the level of vesting, if it finds that the level
of vesting would not accurately represent an
individual’s or business’s performance. This
could also include factors, but not limited
to, such as movements in foreign exchange
rates, government initiatives, hyper inflation
or business performance out of line with the
underlying shareholder experience
The threshold target will be calibrated as set
out in the performance target column
Maximum vesting will be achieved if the
share price reaches a level which the Board
considers to be exceptional performance
and would deliver significant returns for
shareholders
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ remuneration policy continued
1) Policy tables – Executives continued
Differences between Executive Directors’ and employees’ remuneration
The following differences exist between the Company’s policy for the remuneration of Executive Directors as set out in the Policy table above and its approach to the payment of
employees generally:
• Executive Directors may opt to receive a cash supplement in lieu of pension (reduced for Employer’s NI contribution)
• The majority of the wider workforce participate in a performance‑based discretionary bonus. A lower level of maximum annual bonus opportunity applies to employees when
compared to the Executive Directors and no employee other than the Executive Directors is required to defer 50% of their bonus into shares
• Executive Directors will participate in the FY25 LTIP and will be joined by the Executive Leadership Team and other key Senior Management. However, all UK employees are eligible to
participate in the Company’s SAYE scheme
• Only the Executive Directors are subject to shareholding requirements
In general, these differences arise from the development of remuneration arrangements that are market competitive for the various categories of individuals. They also reflect the greater
emphasis placed on performance‑related pay for Executive Directors.
2) Policy tables – Non-Executive Directors
Non‑Executive Director remuneration is not performance related and is not pensionable. The only other payments made to Non‑Executive Directors are mileage allowances at HMRC rates
and expenses for items incurred during the fulfilment of their roles. An explanation of the Policy with regard to Non‑Executive Directors is set out in the table below:
Objective Operation Maximum opportunity
Non-Executive Directors
To attract and retain individuals with the
requisite skills and experience to perform
the role
Set annually on 1 July
The Company will target median fees within FTSE Small Cap Index
companies
Non‑Executive Directors are paid a base fee and additional fees for
Committee membership and chairmanship. An additional fee is also
payable to the Senior Independent Director
The Chair’s fee will be determined by the Committee, whilst the
other Non‑Executive Director fees will be determined by the Chair
and Executive Directors
It is anticipated that increases to Chair and NED fee levels will typically be in
line with market levels of fee inflation and the increase awarded to the wider UK
workforce
Larger increases above this may be awarded in certain circumstances,
for example in the event of a material change in the time commitment or
responsibilities of the Non‑Executive Director
Additional fees may be payable in instances where work performed is outside of
the scope of the individual’s role and responsibilities
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ remuneration policy continued
3) Illustration of remuneration Policy
The following chart provides an illustration of the FY25 reward package for the Chief
Executive Officer under four different performance scenarios: ‘minimum’, ‘on‑target’,
‘maximum’ and ‘maximum with FY25 LTIP share price growth of 50%’. The illustrations are
based on the implementation of the proposed Policy for the year ending 31 March 2025.
The assumptions used in determining the remuneration illustrations are set out in the table
below the chart.
Performance scenario chart
Maximum with LTIP
growth
1
MaximumOn-targetMinimum
£431,000
£896,875
£1,307,458
£1,405,315
0
£1,400,000
£1,600,000
£1,200,000
£1,000,000
£800,000
£600,000
£400,000
£200,000
Fixed Annual variable Multiple reporting periods
Iain Percival (CEO)
100% 48%
33%
19%
33%
46%
21%
31%
43%
26%
Scenario Fixed Annual variable (annual bonus) Multiple reporting periods (LTIP)
Minimum Base salary: As at 1 April 2024
Pension: 5% of base salary
Benefits: In line with those paid in year ended
31 March 2024
Nil Nil
On‑target 50% of maximum 60% vesting
Maximum 100% of maximum 100% vesting
Maximum with FY25 LTIP share price
growth of 50%
100% of maximum 100% vesting with 50% share price growth
Notes
• In line with the proposed implementation of Policy for FY25, the scenario chart uses a 150% of salary maximum annual bonus opportunity for the CEO and FY25 LTIP awards of 2.2% of
ISC for the CEO based on a share price of 75p (share price at time of drafting)
• Given that market value options have nil intrinsic value on grant, we have calculated their ‘expected value’ using the Black‑Scholes model to be c.37% of the face value of the award. For
the ‘minimum’, ‘on‑target’ and ‘maximum’ scenarios, the vesting assumptions above have been applied to the expected value. For the ‘maximum with FY25 LTIP share price growth of
50% scenario’, we have not used the expected value, rather we have calculated the payout based on 50% share price growth, an exercise price of 75p and 100% vesting (acknowledging
that 50% share price growth would not actually equate to full vesting under the share price hurdles). Finally, given the awards granted in FY25 will be the only ones received by the
Executive Directors over the three‑year Policy period we have annualised their value by dividing the value of the whole award by 3
• SAYE is not included
1. Share price growth of 50% over three years
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ remuneration policy continued
4) Policy on recruitment arrangements
The Committee’s approach to Executive Director recruitment remuneration is to pay no more than is necessary to attract candidates of the appropriate calibre and experience needed for
the role. The remuneration package for any new recruit would be assessed following the same principles as for the current Executive Directors, as set out in the remuneration Policy table.
Remuneration
element
Treatment under Policy
Base salary, pension and
other benefits
The salary level will be set considering a number of factors including: market practice; the individual’s experience and responsibilities; and other pay structures within
Trifast. The salary level set will be consistent with the salary Policy for existing Executive Directors
Individuals who are recruited or promoted to the Board may, on occasion, have their salaries set below the targeted policy level until they become established in their role.
In such cases, subsequent increases in salary may be higher than the general rise for UK employees until the target positioning is achieved
The Executive Director shall be eligible to receive pension contributions and benefits in line with Trifast’s Policy for current Executive Directors as set out in the Policy table
above
Annual bonus and
FY25 LTIP
The Executive Director will be eligible to participate in the annual bonus and FY25 LTIP as set out in the Policy table above. The maximum level of annual bonus that may be
offered is 150% of base salary consistent with that of existing Executive Directors
Whether a new joiner is eligible for an award under the FY25 LTIP will be at the discretion of the Committee. Any award will be no higher than set out in the Policy table
above for existing Executive Directors, i.e. 2.2% of ISC for CEO and 1.3% for each other Executive Director. The maximum variable remuneration is therefore 150% of salary
(annual bonus) + 2.2% of ISC (FY25 LTIP award)
Share buy‑outs and
replacement awards
The Committee’s policy is not to provide replacement awards as a matter of course. However, should the Committee determine that the individual circumstances of
recruitment justify the provision of a replacement award, the value of any incentives that will be forfeited on cessation of a Director’s previous employment will be
calculated taking into account the following:
• The proportion of the performance period completed on the date of the Director’s cessation of employment
• The performance conditions attached to the vesting of these incentives and the likelihood of them being satisfied
• Any other terms and conditions having a material effect on their value (‘lapsed value’)
The Committee may then grant a replacement award up to the equivalent value as the lapsed value where possible under the Company’s incentives plans. Where the
circumstances are such that this is not possible, a bespoke arrangement may be used including in accordance with Rule 9.4.2(R) of the Listing Rules
Relocation policies In instances where the new Executive Director is required to relocate or spend significant time away from his/her normal residence, the Company may provide one‑off
compensation to reflect the cost of relocation for the Executive Director. The level of the relocation package will be assessed on a case‑by‑case basis but will take into
consideration any cost of living differences/housing allowance, disturbance allowances and schooling
Internal promotions Where an existing employee is promoted to the Board, the Policy would apply from the date of promotion but there would be no retrospective application of the Policy in
relation to subsisting incentive awards or remuneration arrangements. Accordingly, prevailing elements of the remuneration package for an existing employee would be
honoured and form part of the ongoing remuneration of the employee. These would be disclosed to shareholders in the following year’s annual report on remuneration
The Company’s policy when setting fees for the appointment of new Non‑Executive Directors is to apply the Policy which applies to current Non‑Executive Directors, which is set out on
page 138.
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Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ remuneration policy continued
5) Policy on payment for loss of office – cessation of employment and change of control
When determining any loss of office payment for a departing Director, the Committee will always seek to minimise the cost to the Company whilst complying with the contractual terms
and seeking to reflect the circumstances in place at the time. The Committee reserves the right to make additional payments where such payments are made in good faith in discharge of
an existing legal obligation (or by way of damages for breach of such an obligation), or by way of settlement or compromise of any claim arising in connection with the termination of an
Executive Director’s office or employment.
When setting notice periods, the Committee has regard for market practice and corporate governance best practice. For new appointments, the notice period for Executive Directors will
be set at 12 months.
The following tables show how the Committee would expect to treat Executive Directors on cessation of employment or upon a change of control.
Cessation of employment
Remuneration
element
Approach
Circumstances of departure
of Executive Directors
A ‘good leaver’ is a person whose cessation of employment is for one of the following reasons:
• Death
• Ill‑health
• Injury or disability
• Redundancy
• Retirement
• Employing company ceasing to be a Group company
• Transfer of employment to a company which is not a Group company
• Where the person is designated a good leaver at the discretion of the Committee
A participant who is not a ‘good leaver’ is a ‘bad leaver’
Base salary, pension and
other benefits
Base salary, pension and benefits are paid in lieu of notice. Neither notice nor a payment in lieu of notice will be given in the event of gross misconduct
All‑employee share plan
(SAYE)
In line with plan rules
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Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ remuneration policy continued
5) Policy on payment for loss of office – cessation of employment and change of control continued
Cessation of employment continued
Remuneration
element
Approach
Annual bonus The treatment under the annual bonus is as follows:
Good leavers
• Unless the Remuneration Committee determines otherwise, any bonus payable in respect of the year of cessation will be pro‑rated for time, and performance will be
tested at the normal date. The bonus will normally be paid in cash on the normal bonus payment date
• Unvested deferred share bonus awards will vest on their original vesting date
Bad leavers
• Bad leavers will forfeit any bonus in respect of the year of cessation and any unvested deferred share awards will lapse
The Remuneration Committee has the following elements of discretion:
• The Committee has discretion to defer 50% of the bonus earned in the year of cessation into shares for three years
• To allow the determination and payment of bonus as at the date of cessation. The Remuneration Committee will make this determination depending on the type of
good leaver reason resulting in the cessation
• To allow unvested deferred shares to vest on the date of cessation. The Remuneration Committee will make this determination depending on the type of good leaver
reason resulting in the cessation
FY25 LTIP The treatment under the FY25 LTIP is as follows:
Good leavers
• Vested awards at the date of cessation will normally become exercisable, subject to meeting the performance underpin, on the original date and will be pro‑rated for
time served over the period to the date they become exercisable. These awards will be subject to the holding period
• Awards which are exercisable will remain subject to the holding period
• Unvested awards, i.e. those awards that have not achieved the share price hurdle at the date of cessation will lapse
Bad leavers
• Unvested awards will lapse and any vested awards that are not exercisable, i.e. those that have met a share price hurdle but not completed the continuing employment
requirement, at the date of cessation, will also lapse
• Options which have already become exercisable, but have not yet been exercised will lapse
• Awards that have been exercised at the date of cessation will remain subject to the holding period
The Remuneration Committee has the following elements of discretion:
• To determine whether to pro‑rate vested but unexercisable awards for time served from the date of grant to the date of cessation. The normal policy will be strict
pro‑ration. The Remuneration Committee will make this determination depending on the type of good leaver reason resulting in the cessation
• To allow vested awards to become exercisable on cessation, the normal policy will be that no change is made to exercise dates. The Remuneration Committee will
make this determination depending on the type of good leaver reason resulting in the cessation
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Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ remuneration policy continued
Remuneration
element
Approach
Buy‑out award Where cessation of employment occurs in relation to an Executive Director who has been granted a buy‑out award, the treatment would be in line with the terms of the
buy‑out award
Other contractual
obligations
There are no other contractual provisions other than those set out above that could impact the quantum of the payment
Change of control
Remuneration
element
Approach
Annual bonus • Annual bonus for the year in which a change of control event occurs will be pro‑rated for time and performance and paid in cash
• At the Remuneration Committee’s discretion, it may consider whether to disapply pro‑rating for a time
• Unvested deferred share awards will vest on change of control
• In the event of an internal corporate reorganisation, the Remuneration Committee may decide to replace unvested deferred share awards with equivalent new awards
over shares in the acquiring company
FY25 LTIP • Vested awards, i.e. those that have met a share price hurdle, will become exercisable on a change of control and not be subject to any time pro‑rating subject to
Committee’s assessment of the underpin
• Unvested awards will become exercisable on a change of control subject to the extent that any applicable performance target (i.e. the share price hurdle) has been
satisfied based on the deal share price and the Committee’s underpin assessment at that time. There will be no pro‑rating of any awards that vest and become
exercisable in this manner
• Any unvested awards that do not meet the share price hurdle based on the deal share price will lapse
• In the event of an internal corporate reorganisation, the Committee may decide to replace vested and unvested awards which are not yet exercisable with equivalent
new awards over shares in the acquiring company
Buy‑out award Where change of control occurs in relation to an Executive Director who has been granted a buy‑out award, the treatment would be in line with the terms of any such
buy‑out award
5) Policy on payment for loss of office – cessation of employment and change of control continued
Cessation of employment continued
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Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ remuneration policy continued
6) Policy on malus and clawback
Malus provisions apply to the annual bonus and the FY25 LTIP. Malus is the adjustment of the annual bonus in the year it is earned, unvested deferred bonus shares or unvested or vested
FY25 LTIP awards which are not yet exercisable because of the occurrence of one or more circumstances. The adjustment may result in the value being reduced to nil.
Clawback is the recovery of cash payments made or vested deferred shares under the annual bonus or FY25 LTIP awards that are exercisable as a result of the occurrence of one or more
circumstances. Clawback may apply to all or part of a participant’s payment under the annual bonus or FY25 LTIP awards.
Element
Policy
Annual bonus – cash • Malus will apply up to the time of payment and clawback will apply for a period of two years post‑payment
Annual bonus – deferred
shares
• Malus will apply during the vesting period and clawback will apply for a period of two years post‑vesting
FY25 LTIP • Malus will apply during the period when the awards are not exercisable, and clawback will apply for two years post the awards becoming exercisable
The circumstances in which malus and clawback could apply are as follows:
• Discovery of a material misstatement resulting in an adjustment in the audited accounts of the Group or any Group company
• The assessment of any performance condition or condition in respect of an annual bonus or FY25 LTIP award that was based on error, or inaccurate or misleading information
• The discovery that any information used to determine a cash bonus or the number of shares subject to a bonus share deferral or FY25 LTIP award was based on error, or inaccurate or
misleading information
• Action or conduct of a participant which, in the reasonable opinion of the Committee, amounts to fraud or gross misconduct
• Actions that result in a material failure of risk management of the Company, a Group company or a business unit of the Group
• The Company or any Group company or business of the Group becomes insolvent or otherwise suffers a corporate failure so that the value of shares is materially reduced, provided
that the Board determines following an appropriate review of accountability that the participant should be held responsible (in whole or in part) for that insolvency or corporate failure
• Events or the behaviour of a participant have led to the censure of a Group company by a regulatory authority or have had a significant detrimental impact on the reputation of any
Group company provided that the Board is satisfied that the relevant participant was responsible for the censure or reputational damage and that the censure or reputational damage
is attributable to them
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Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ remuneration policy continued
7) Discretions retained by the
Remuneration Committee
The Committee retains discretion,
consistent with market practice, in a
number of regards to the operation and
administration of the annual bonus and
FY25 LTIP (the FY25 LTIP being operated in
general terms according to the rules to be
approved by shareholders).
The areas where discretion is retained
includes, but is not limited to, the following:
• The participants
• The timing of an award
• The size of an award
• The determination of vesting and/or
payout
• Discretion required when dealing with a
change of control or restructuring of the
Group
• Determination of the treatment of leavers
based on the rules of the plan and the
appropriate treatment chosen
• Adjustments required in certain
circumstances (e.g. rights issues,
corporate restructuring events and
special dividends)
These discretions, which in certain
circumstances can be operated in both
an upward and downward manner, are
consistent with market practice and are
necessary for the proper and fair operation
of the plans so that they achieve their
original purpose.
The Committee has discretion in several
areas of policy as set out in this report.
In particular, the Committee will have
overriding discretion to change formulaic
outcomes (both downwards and upwards)
if they are out of line with underlying
performance of the Company. In addition,
the Committee has the discretion to
amend the Policy with regard to minor
or administrative matters where it would
be, in the opinion of the Committee,
disproportionate to seek or await
shareholder approval.
8) External directorships
The Board allows Executive Directors to
accept one appropriate outside commercial
Non‑Executive Director appointment
provided the aggregate commitment is
compatible with their duties as Executive
Directors. The Executive Director concerned
may retain fees paid for these services,
which will be subject to approval by the
Board before accepting. The Executive
Directors currently hold no external
directorships.
9) Service contracts for
ExecutiveDirectors
The service contract for Iain Percival is not
fixed term. Contracts are terminable by
either the Company or the Director on the
following bases:
Executive
Director
Notice
period
Date of signing
current service
contract
Iain Percival 12 months 12 September
2023
1
1. Although signing his appointment letter on
12September 2023, Iain Percival was appointed as
an Executive Director on 20 September 2023
Executive Directors are subject to annual
re‑election at the Company’s AGM.
The Directors’ contracts are kept at the
Company’s registered office.
10) Non-Executive Directors
letters of appointment
The Company’s policy is to appoint
Non‑Executive Directors to the Board with
a breadth of skills and experience that is
relevant to its business. Appointments
are made by the Board upon the
recommendations and advice from the
Nomination Committee (read more about
the Nomination Committee on pages 88 to
93). The Non‑Executive Directors do not
have service contracts but are appointed
under letters of appointment.
The Non‑Executive Directors were
appointed for an initial three‑year term and
their appointment continues subject to
annual re‑election at the Company’s AGM.
The table below sets out the date that each
Non‑Executive Director was first appointed
(date of signing first letter of appointment)
and the notice period by which their
appointment may be terminated early by
either party. For new appointments, the
notice period is three months and in line
with existing Non‑Executives’ arrangements,
set out in the 2014 Directors’ remuneration
Policy, this will be extended to 12 months on
a change of control. The Directors’ letters
of appointment are kept at the Company’s
registered office.
Non‑Executive
Director
Notice
period
Date of signing
Clive Watson
1
3 months 20 April
2020
Louis Eperjesi
1
3 months 22 November
2022
Serena Lang 3 months 7 August
2023
Nicholas Mills 3 months 16 October
2023
Laura Whyte 3 months 11 March
2024
1. Although signing appointment letters prior to the
appointment, Clive Watson was appointed as a
Non‑Executive Director on 30 July 2020, Louis
Eperjesi on 3 January 2023 and Nicholas Mills on
20 October 2023
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145
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ remuneration policy continued
11) Consideration of conditions
elsewhere in the Group
The remuneration Policy throughout the
Company is based on ensuring that we can
attract and retain the most suitable people.
This principle is consistent with that applied
to the development of our remuneration
Policy for Executive Directors. Employee
views were not specifically sought in
determining this Policy and no comparison
metrics were used.
As part of our commitment to fairness
across the business, and in line with
requirements under the Corporate
Governance Code, we have set out
in the annual report on remuneration
information on the pay and conditions
of the wider workforce and comparisons
with the Executive Directors. We are
committed to transparency internally and
externally in relation to developments on
these important issues and will continue
to consider how our disclosures can be
enhanced going forward.
Pay structures across the Group
The Committee did not specifically
consult with employees when drawing
up the Directors’ remuneration Policy.
However, in making decisions on executive
pay, the Committee considers wider
workforce remuneration and conditions.
We recognise the importance of all of our
teams in delivering success and aim to
provide a remuneration package for our
employees which is aligned to our values
and remuneration principles across the
Group. Our remuneration for employees is
market competitive and operates the same
core structure as for Executive Directors,
including employee share and variable
pay plans, with pension provision for all
Directors and employees.
Prior to reviewing the remuneration
outcomes, the Committee will consider
a report covering key information such
as base pay levels and share scheme
participation.
Employee engagement
As outlined, the Company and the Board
seek to engage with employees utilising
a number of communication channels. In
the engagement process, remuneration is
covered as a specific topic and is a primary
focus when the Non‑Executive Director’s
engaged with employees on site. Employees
are asked about their own remuneration,
overall reward package and how they
view other engagement topics such as
communication, work life balance and
culture. The feedback on remuneration will
be reviewed by the Committee to ensure
that we have a watching brief on fairness
and transparency on the overarching
rewardstrategy.
See page 40 for further information on
employee engagement.
12) Statement of shareholder views
At the Company’s 2023 AGM, 79.99% votes
were received in favour of Resolution 2,
the advisory vote to approve the Directors’
remuneration report for the year ended
31March 2023. In accordance with Provision
4 of the UK Corporate Governance Code,
the Company published a statement on
14 December 2023 providing an update
on the views received from shareholders
and actions taken following the vote. Prior
to the statement, our Chair engaged with
a number of our largest shareholders
to better understand their views on
remuneration at Trifast. The key theme
that emerged from these discussions was
the approach to long‑term incentives and
there were differing views in relation to
the most appropriate long‑term incentive
arrangement to align the interests of
shareholders and executives.
In light of the above feedback and as
set out in this report, the Committee has
reviewed Policy and proposed a new
long‑term incentive arrangement. Please
see the Chair’s statement on page 105 for
moredetails.
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146
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ remuneration policy continued
Results and proposed dividend
Total Group revenue from continuing
operations was £233.7m (FY23: £244.4m)
and the profit for the year before tax was
£1.2m (FY23: loss for the year before tax
£(2.7)m). Underlying profit before tax for
the Group was £6.5m (FY23: £9.3m); see
note 2 for breakdown.
The Directors recommend a final dividend
of 1.20p (FY23: 1.50p) per ordinary share to
be paid on 11 October 2024 to shareholders
registered at the close of business on
13September 2024. This, together with
the interim dividend of 0.60p (paid on
11April 2024) (FY23: 0.75p), brings the
total for the year to 1.80p (FY23: 2.25p).
The 2024 proposed final dividend has not
been included within creditors as it was not
approved before the year end. The 2024
interim dividend is also unrecognised as
itwas paid post year end.
The strategic report provides a detailed
analysis of the results in the year and an
indication of future developments.
Annual General Meeting
The Annual General Meeting will be held at
12.30pm on 10 September 2024 at the NDC,
Reedswood Park Road, Walsall WS2 8DQ.
Further details can be found in the Notice
ofMeeting.
Director insurance
The Company maintains an appropriate
level of Directors’ and Officer’s insurance in
respect of legal action against Directors as
permitted under the Company’s Articles of
Association and the Companies Act 2006.
No insurance cover would be provided in
the event that a Director is proven to have
acted dishonestly or fraudulently.
Directors and Directors’ interests
1
The Directors’ remuneration and their
interests in share capital are shown in the
remuneration report on pages 127 and
128. All Directors are subject to annual
re‑election; details can be found in the
corporate governance report on page 86.
Biographical details can be found on pages
82 and 83.
The Directors who held office during the
year were as follows:
Chair
S Lang
Non‑Executive Director
Chair of Nomination Committee
Appointed to the Board 10 August 2023 and
as Chair 15 September 2023
JPD Shearman
Non‑Executive Director
Chair of Nomination Committee
Resigned 14 September 2023
Executive Directors
IP Percival
Chief Executive Officer
Appointed 20 September 2023
SW Mac Meekin
Interim Chief Executive Officer
Appointed 20 February 2023
Resigned 19 September 2023
DM Hayes-Powell
Chief Financial Officer
Left 21 February 2024
Independent Non-Executive Directors
C Watson
Senior Independent Director
Chair of Audit & Risk Committee
LLA Eperjesi
Chair of Responsible Business Committee
Appointed 3 January 2023
L Whyte
Chair of Remuneration Committee
Appointed to the Board 11 March 2024
and as Chair of Remuneration Committee
1April2024
C Balmforth
Chair of Remuneration Committee
Retired 31 March 2024
Non-Executive Director
N Mills
Non‑Executive Director
Appointed 20 October 2023
The Directors present their Annual Report on the affairs of the Group, together with
the financial statements and auditor’s report, for the year ended 31March 2024
1. Although Kate Ferguson attends Board meetings, on the basis that she is not an appointed Board member,
her remuneration details are not included in this report
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Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ report
Substantial shareholdings
Details of the share structure of the Company are disclosed in note 24.
The Company was aware of the following material interests, representing 3% or more of the
issued share capital of the Company.
As at 31 March 2024
No. of
shares held
% of
shareholding
Harwood Capital LLP 19,645,000 14.43
Slater Investments Ltd 18,045,422 13.26
Schroder Investment Management Ltd 16,014,977 11.77
Huntington Management LLC 10,939,831 8.04
Threadneedle Asset Management Ltd 8,880,889 6.52
Mr. Michael Timms 7,000,000 5.14
As at 1 July 2024
No. of
shares held
% of
shareholding
Harwood Capital LLP 19,925,000 14.64
Slater Investments Ltd 17,862,456 13.12
Schroder Investment Management Ltd 14,864,992 10.92
Huntington Management LLC 10,939,831 8.04
Threadneedle Asset Management Ltd 8,742,770 6.42
Mr. Michael Timms 7,000,000 5.14
No Director holds >5% shares in the Company.
Employee Benefit Trust (EBT)
The number of Trifast 5p ordinary shares held by the Trifast EBT (as funded by the Group)
at 31 March 2024 was 1,373,663 (FY23: 1,896,098) which represented 1.0% of the fully paid
up share capital of the Company as at 31 March 2024 (FY23: 1.4%). During the year, 522,435
shares were transferred out to meet employee share obligations (FY23: 298,372) and no
further shares were acquired (FY23: nil). These shares are shown in the own shares held
reserve within equity on the balance sheet.
Financial instruments
Information in respect of the Group’s policies on financial risk management objectives,
including policies to manage credit risk, liquidity risk and foreign currency risk, along with
the capital structure of the Group, are given in note 26 to the financial statements.
Corporate governance
The corporate governance statement on pages 85 to 87 should be read as forming part of
the Directors’ report.
Takeover Directive
Where not provided elsewhere in the Directors’ report, the following provides the
additionalinformation required to be disclosed because of the implementation of the
Takeover Directive.
There are no restrictions on the transfer of ordinary shares in the capital of the Company
other than certain restrictions which may from time to time be imposed by law (for
example, insider trading law). In accordance with the Listing Rules of the Financial Conduct
Authority, certain employees are required to seek the approval of the Company to deal in
its shares.
The Company is not aware of any agreements between shareholders that may result in
restrictions on the transfer of shares or on voting rights.
No person has any special rights of control over the Company’s share capital and all its
shares are fully paid.
The rules governing the appointment and replacement of Directors are set out in the
corporate governance section of the Directors’ report on page 87.
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Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ report continued
Takeover Directive continued
The Company’s Articles of Association may
only be amended by a special resolution at a
general meeting of shareholders.
The Company is party to banking
agreements that, upon a change of control
of the Company, could be terminable by the
bank concerned.
Outside of the extension of certain
Directors’ rolling contract periods and
notice periods, there are no agreements
between the Company and its Directors or
employees which provide for compensation
for loss of office or employment (whether
through resignation, purported redundancy
or otherwise) that occurs because of a
takeover bid.
The Company is not aware of any
contractual or other agreements which are
essential to its business which ought to be
disclosed in the Directors’ report.
Donations
The Group made no political donations
in the year (FY23: £nil). The Group made
£6,000 of charitable donations in the year
(FY23:£4,000).
Trade associations
We are a member of the British & Irish
Association of Fastener Distributors
(BIAFD) which supports and represents
industrial fastener distributors throughout
the UK & the ROI and also of the European
Fastener Distribution Association (EFDA)
which represents the interests of fastener
distributors at European and global level.
Research and development
The Group had a spend of £134,300 on
research and development in the year
(FY23:£90,400).
Employees
The Group has a policy of offering equal
opportunities to employees at all levels
in respect of the conditions of work.
Throughout the Group it is the Board’s
intention to provide possible employment
opportunities and training for disabled
people and to care for employees who
become disabled having regard to aptitude
and abilities. Our ESG statement can be
found on our website www.trifast.com and
further details are provided in the strategic
report and being a responsible business
sections of this Annual Report.
Regular consultation and meetings, formal,
virtual or otherwise, are held with all levels
of employees to discuss problems and
opportunities. Information on matters of
concern to employees is presented in the
in‑house letters and publications.
For more information on employee
engagement see page 40.
Energy and carbon reporting
For information on our energy use and
carbon emissions see pages 48 and 49.
Subsequent events
The Group disposed of TR Norge AS on
3April 2024, amended the interest cover
covenant for RCF and EDG for the banking
facilities on 2 May 2024, KBC Bank NV
(KBC) became a lender as an existing lender
transferred part of their commitment to
KBC and one of the customers filed for
an administration, see note 29 for further
details. Other than this, there are no
material adjusting or non‑adjusting events
subsequent to the balance sheet date.
Disclosure of information to auditor
Each of the Directors who held office at the
date of approval of this Directors’ report
confirm that, so far as they are each aware,
there is no relevant audit information of
which the Company’s auditor is unaware;
and each Director has taken all the steps
that they ought to have taken as a Director
to make themselves aware of any relevant
audit information and to establish that
the Company’s auditor is aware of that
information.
By order of the Board
Serena Lang
Chair
26 July 2024
Trifast House
Bellbrook Park
Uckfield
East Sussex TN22 1QW
Company registration number: 01919797
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149
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Directors’ report continued
The Directors are responsible for preparing
the Annual Report and the financial
statements in accordance with UK‑adopted
international accounting standards and
applicable law and regulations.
Company law requires the Directors to
prepare financial statements for each
financial year. Under that law the Directors
are required to prepare the Group financial
statements and have elected to prepare
the Company financial statements in
accordance with UK‑adopted international
accounting standards.
Under company law the Directors must not
approve the financial statements unless
they are satisfied that they give a true and
fair view of the state of affairs of the Group
and Company and of the profit or loss for
the Group for that period. In preparing
these financial statements, the Directors
arerequired to:
• Select suitable accounting policies
andthen apply them consistently
• Make judgements and accounting
estimates that are reasonable and
prudent
• State whether they have been prepared
in accordance with UK‑adopted
international accounting standards,
subject to any material departures
disclosed and explained in the financial
statements
• Prepare the financial statements on
the going concern basis unless it is
inappropriate to presume that the
Group and the Company will continue
inbusiness
• Prepare a Directors’ report, a strategic
report and Directors’ remuneration
report which comply with the
requirements of the Companies Act 2006
The Directors are responsible for keeping
adequate accounting records that
are sufficient to show and explain the
Company’s transactions and disclose
with reasonable accuracy at any time the
financial position of the Company and
enable them to ensure that the financial
statements comply with the Companies
Act 2006. They are also responsible for
safeguarding the assets of the Company and
hence for taking reasonable steps for the
prevention and detection of fraud and other
irregularities. The Directors are responsible
for ensuring that the Annual Report and
the financial statements, taken as a whole,
are fair, balanced and understandable
and provides the information necessary
for shareholders to assess the Group’s
performance, business model and strategy.
The Directors are responsible for ensuring
the Annual Report and the financial
statements are made available on a website.
Financial statements are published on the
Company’s website in accordance with
legislation in the United Kingdom governing
the preparation and dissemination of
financial statements, which may vary from
legislation in other jurisdictions.
The maintenance and integrity of the
Company’s website is the responsibility of
the Directors. The Directors’ responsibility
also extends to the ongoing integrity of the
financial statements contained therein.
Responsibility statement of the
Directors in respect of the annual
financial report
We confirm that to the best of our
knowledge:
• The financial statements have been
prepared in accordance with the
applicable set of accounting standards,
give a true and fair view of the assets,
liabilities, financial position and profit and
loss of the Group and Company
• The Annual Report includes a fair review
of the development and performance of
the business and the financial position of
the Group and Company, together with
a description of the principal risks and
uncertainties that they face
We consider the Annual Report and the
financial statements, taken as a whole,
is fair, balanced and understandable,
and provides the information necessary
for shareholders to assess the Group’s
positionand performance, business
modeland strategy.
On behalf of the Board
Iain Percival
Chief Executive Officer
26 July 2024
Strategic report
Governance
Financial statements Additional information
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Statement of Directors’ responsibilities
in respect of the Annual Report and the financial statements
Independent auditor’s report
to the members of Trifast Plc
Opinion on the financial statements
In our opinion:
• the financial statements give a true and fair view of the state of the Group’s and of the
Parent Company’s affairs as at 31 March 2024 and of the Group’s loss for the year then
ended;
• the Group financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with UK
adopted international accounting standards;
• the Parent Company financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance
with UK adopted international accounting standards and as applied in accordance with
the provisions of the Companies Act 2006; and
• the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the
Companies Act 2006.
We have audited the financial statements of Trifast Plc (the ‘Parent Company’) and
its subsidiaries (the ‘Group’) for the year ended 31 March 2024 which comprise the
Consolidated income statement, Consolidated statement of comprehensive income,
Consolidated and Company statement of changes in equity, Statements of financial
position, Statements of cash flows and notes to the financial statements, including a
summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that
has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and UK adopted international
accounting standards and as regards the Parent Company financial statements, as applied
in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act 2006.
Basis for opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs
(UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described
in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our
report. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate
to provide a basis for our opinion. Our audit opinion is consistent with the additional report
to the audit committee.
Independence
Following the recommendation of the audit committee, we were appointed by the board
on 3 December 2019 to audit the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2020
and subsequent financial periods. The period of total uninterrupted engagement including
retenders and reappointments is 5 years, covering the years ended 31 March 2020 to
31March 2024.
We remain independent of the Group and the Parent Company in accordance with the
ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK,
including the FRC’s Ethical Standard as applied to listed public interest entities, and we
have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements.
Thenon‑audit services prohibited by that standard were not provided to the Group or
theParent Company.
Conclusions relating to going concern
In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the Directors’ use of the going
concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.
Our evaluation of the Directors’ assessment of the Group and the Parent Company’s ability
to continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting included:
• We reviewed the Directors’ assessment of going concern, their model’s computational
accuracy and challenged the key assumptions used in the forecasts by benchmarking
against historic forecasting accuracy at a subsidiary level. We also considered a
management’s sensitivity analysis;
• We reviewed and tested forecast compliance with quarterly interest cover and adjusted
leverage covenants in place;
• We evaluated to what extent the key inputs would need to deteriorate in order to break
the Group’s liquidity and then considered the likelihood of this occurring;
• We compared the Directors’ forecast against post year end management accounts to
assess the accuracy of management’s forecasts to date; and
• We reviewed the adequacy of the disclosure on going concern in the Group financial
statements.
Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties
relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt
on the Group and the Parent Company’s ability to continue as a going concern for a period
of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.
In relation to the Parent Company’s reporting on how it has applied the UK Corporate
Governance Code, we have nothing material to add or draw attention to in relation to the
Directors’ statement in the financial statements about whether the Directors considered it
appropriate to adopt the going concern basis of accounting.
Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the Directors with respect to going concern
are described in the relevant sections of this report.
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Independent auditor’s report continued
to the members of Trifast Plc
Overview
Coverage 95% (2023: 97%) of Group profit before tax
92% (2023: 100%) of Group revenue
94% (2023: 100%) of Group total assets
Key audit matters 2024 2023
Recoverability of customer
specific inventory ✓ ✓
Goodwill impairment
✓ ✓
Materiality Group financial statements as a whole
£1,000k (2023:£970k) based on 0.4% (2023: 0.4%) of
group revenue.
An overview of the scope of our audit
Our Group audit was scoped by obtaining an understanding of the Group and its
environment, including the Group’s system of internal control, and assessing the risks
of material misstatement in the financial statements. We also addressed the risk of
management override of internal controls, including assessing whether there was evidence
of bias by the Directors that may have represented a risk of material misstatement.
The Group has 25 reporting components, based on our risk assessment we identified
4(2023: 5) companies including the Parent Company which, in our view, were significant
components and required a full scope audit of their complete financial information due to
their financial significance. A further 10 (2023: 15) companies were scoped in, either due to
their risk characteristics or for coverage.
The remaining 1 1 (2023: 5) components of the Group were not identified as being significant
or material to the Group and the financial information of these components were principally
subject to analytical review procedures performed by the Group audit team.
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Adjusted
PBT
Revenue
Total
assets
The group engagement team performed procedures over 1 financially significant
component (2023: 1 financially significant and 1 specific scope component). BDO LLP
component teams performed procedures over 5 ( 2023: 5) components including 1
(2023:1) financially significant component, and 4 (2023: 4) specific scope components.
The remaining audit procedures were performed by overseas BDO network member firms.
Our involvement with component auditors
For the work performed by component auditors, we determined the level of involvement
needed in order to be able to conclude whether sufficient appropriate audit evidence has
been obtained as a basis for our opinion on the Group financial statements as a whole.
The Group audit team controlled and directed the work of the component audit teams.
This included providing detailed audit instructions and setting of component materiality.
Aplanned visit to two UK entities and one Italian entity were completed in person, of which
all entities were significant components, other interactions were completed on a remote
basis. The Group audit team held video calls in order to attend component team planning
and completion meetings together with open dialogue maintained throughout the audit.
We also performed reviews of selected working papers on the component audit teams
audit files.
Climate change
Our work on the assessment of potential impacts on climate‑related risks on the Group’s
operations and financial statements included:
• Enquiries and challenge of management to understand the actions they have taken to
identify climate‑related risks and their potential impacts on the financial statements and
adequately disclose climate‑related risks within the annual report;
• Our own qualitative risk assessment taking into consideration the sector in which the
Group operates and how climate change affects this particular sector; and
• Review of the minutes of Board and Audit Committee meeting and ESG Committee
and other papers related to climate change and performed a risk assessment as to how
the impact of the Group’s commitment as set out on page 65 may affect the financial
statements and our audit.
We challenged the extent to which climate‑related considerations, including the expected
cash flows from the initiatives and commitments have been reflected, where appropriate, in
management’s going concern assessment and viability assessment.
We also assessed the consistency of managements disclosures included as ‘Other
Information’/’Statutory Other Information’ on page 156 with the financial statements and
with our knowledge obtained from the audit.
Based on our risk assessment procedures, we did not identify there to be any Key Audit
Matters materially impacted by climate‑related risks.
Financially significant
Analytical procedures
Specified scope
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Independent auditor’s report continued
to the members of Trifast Plc
An overview of the scope of our audit continued
Key audit matters
Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgement, were of most significance in our audit of the financial statements of the current period and include the most
significant assessed risks of material misstatement (whether or not due to fraud) that we identified, including those which had the greatest effect on: the overall audit strategy, the
allocation of resources in the audit, and directing the efforts of the engagement team. These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the financial statements as a whole, and
in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters.
Key audit matter How the scope of our audit addressed the key audit matter
Recoverability of
customer-specific inventory
Refer to the Accounting Policies
of the Group on pages 168 to 175
for further detail on the policies
impacting inventory provision
valuation together with Note 30
detailing the estimation uncertainty
over provisions for customer
specific inventory and Note 18 for
the financial disclosure of inventory.
The Group has bespoke customer‑specific
products for which there is a risk over
recoverability if any contractual obligations
to acquire outstanding stock are waived for
commercial reasons or the customer’s product
line is discontinued, and component parts are
not being carried forward to new product lines.
Given the size of the customer‑specific inventory
balance, and the complexity involved in
estimating customers changes in future demand
there is a risk that the valuation of the inventory
provision is inappropriate. We therefore
determined this to be a key audit matter.
We have:
• Tested the application of the provision methodology through sample testing the
classification of inventory between customer specific or standard inventory, the ageing
of inventory and the arithmetical accuracy of application of the methodology as relevant
to each component;
• Made enquiries of management over the status of any discontinued or delayed products
and their assessment of the recoverability of existing parts;
• On a sample basis, tested the appropriateness of the provision for a sample of inventory
lines by reference to historical sales or other relevant evidence to support the inventory
valuation; and
• On a sample basis, tested the net realisable value of inventory by agreeing to sales
documentation, including post year‑end sales documentation where available.
Key observations:
We did not identify any indicators to suggest that the estimates made in determining the
customer specific inventory provision were inappropriate.
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Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Independent auditor’s report continued
to the members of Trifast Plc
Key audit matter How the scope of our audit addressed the key audit matter
Impairment
Refer to the Accounting Policies
of the Group on pages 168 to 175
for further detail on the policies
impacting impairment together with
Note 30 detailing the estimation
uncertainty over impairment and
Note 13 for the financial disclosure.
Goodwill and non‑current assets are significant
balances in the Consolidated Statement of
financial position and goodwill is subject to an
annual impairment review.
The recoverability is dependent on
management’s identification and allocation
of cash generating units, the consideration of
indicators of impairment for CGUs which do not
have goodwill and estimating both cashflows
and appropriate discount rates to apply in the
value in use calculation where an impairment
review is required.
Given the size of the goodwill and non‑current
asset balances, and the complexity of estimating
both cashflows and discount rates where an
impairment is required this is considered to
be an area of material estimation. Hence there
is a risk that the valuation of goodwill and
non‑current assets are inappropriate. Due to the
judgements involved, we consider this to be a
key audit matter.
We have:
• Assessed management’s impairment model for compliance with applicable accounting
standards and tested its computational accuracy;
• Assessed management’s identification and allocation of cash generating units, agreeing
the accuracy of the carrying value to the underlying accounting records;
• Considered the sensitivity of management’s impairment assessment to identify
CGU’s with a risk of material impairment and where there was no goodwill evaluated
management’ assessment of indicators of impairment;
• Where there is a risk of material impairment, identified and evaluated the appropriateness
of key assumptions and obtained supporting evidence where appropriate;
• With the assistance of our internal valuation experts, we tested the discount rate
assumptions to assess their reasonableness through corroboration to external sources;
Key observations:
We did not identify any matters to suggest that the estimates made by the Directors in the
calculation of the impairment were inappropriate.
An overview of the scope of our audit continued
Key audit matters continued
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Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Independent auditor’s report continued
to the members of Trifast Plc
Our application of materiality
We apply the concept of materiality both in planning and performing our audit, and in evaluating the effect of misstatements. We consider materiality to be the magnitude by which
misstatements, including omissions, could influence the economic decisions of reasonable users that are taken on the basis of the financial statements.
In order to reduce to an appropriately low level the probability that any misstatements exceed materiality, we use a lower materiality level, performance materiality, to determine the
extent of testing needed. Importantly, misstatements below these levels will not necessarily be evaluated as immaterial as we also take account of the nature of identified misstatements,
and the particular circumstances of their occurrence, when evaluating their effect on the financial statements as a whole.
Based on our professional judgement, we determined materiality for the financial statements as a whole and performance materiality as follows:
Group financial statements Parent company financial statements
2024
2023
2024
2023
Materiality £1,000k
£970k
£485k
£150k
Basis for determining
materiality
0.4% of revenue
0.4% of revenue
48% (2023: 15%) of Group materiality.
Rationale for the benchmark
applied
Considered the most stable performance measure of the group Based on our assessment of the components aggregation risk.
Performance materiality £650k
£630k
£315k
£97k
Basis for determining
performance materiality
65% of group materiality 65% of component materiality
Rationale for the percentage
applied for performance
materiality
Set taking account various factors including: the expected total value
of known and likely misstatements, brought forward misstatements,
management’s attitude towards adjustments, the number of material
estimates, and how homogeneous processes are within the group
Set taking account various factors including: the expected total value
of known and likely misstatements, brought forward misstatements,
management’s attitude towards adjustments, the number of material
estimates, and how homogeneous processes are within the parent
company.
Component materiality
For the purposes of our Group audit opinion, we set materiality for each significant component of the Group, based on a percentage of between 48% and 90% (2023: 15% and 90%) of
Group materiality dependent on the size and our assessment of the risk of material misstatement of that component. Component materiality ranged from £485k to £900k (2023: £150k to
£875k). In the audit of each component, we further applied performance materiality levels of 65% (2023: 65%) of the component materiality to our testing to ensure that the risk of errors
exceeding component materiality was appropriately mitigated.
Reporting threshold
We agreed with the Audit Committee that we would report to them all individual audit differences in excess of £50k (2023: £50k) with those between £20k – £50k (2023: £19k – £50k)
being reported in aggregate. We also agreed to report differences below these thresholds that, in our view, warranted reporting on qualitative grounds.
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Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Independent auditor’s report continued
to the members of Trifast Plc
Other information
The directors are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises
the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and
our auditor’s report thereon. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the
other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we
do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the
other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially
inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of
the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material
inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether
this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based
on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this
other information, we are required to report that fact.
We have nothing to report in this regard.
Corporate governance statement
The Listing Rules require us to review the Directors’ statement in relation to going concern,
longer‑term viability and that part of the Corporate Governance Statement relating to the
parent company’s compliance with the provisions of the UK Corporate Governance Code
specified for our review.
Based on the work undertaken as part of our audit, we have concluded that each of the
following elements of the Corporate Governance Statement is materially consistent with
the financial statements or our knowledge obtained during the audit.
Going concern
and longer-term
viability
• The Directors’ statement with regards to the appropriateness
of adopting the going concern basis of accounting and any
material uncertainties identified set out on page 87; and
• The Directors’ explanation as to their assessment of the Group’s
prospects, the period this assessment covers and why the
period is appropriate set out on pages 76 and 77.
Other Code
provisions
• Directors’ statement on fair, balanced and understandable set
out on page 97;
• Board’s confirmation that it has carried out a robust assessment
of the emerging and principal risks set out on pages 66 to 75;
• The section of the annual report that describes the review of
effectiveness of risk management and internal control systems
set out on page 98; and
• The section describing the work of the audit committee set out
on pages 96 to 103.
Other Companies Act 2006 reporting
Based on the responsibilities described below and our work performed during the course
of the audit, we are required by the Companies Act 2006 and ISAs (UK) to report on
certain opinions and matters as described below.
Strategic report
and Directors’
report
In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the
audit:
• the information given in the Strategic report and the Directors’
report for the financial year for which the financial statements
are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and
• the Strategic report and the Directors’ report have been
prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.
In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the Group
and Parent Company and its environment obtained in the course
of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the
strategic report or the Directors’ report.
Directors’
remuneration
In our opinion, the part of the Directors’ remuneration report to
be audited has been properly prepared in accordance with the
Companies Act 2006.
Matters on which
we are required
to report by
exception
We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in
relation to which the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to
you if, in our opinion:
• adequate accounting records have not been kept by the Parent
Company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been
received from branches not visited by us; or
• the Parent Company financial statements and the part of
the Directors’ remuneration report to be audited are not in
agreement with the accounting records and returns; or
• certain disclosures of Directors’ remuneration specified by law
are not made; or
• we have not received all the information and explanations we
require for our audit.
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Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Independent auditor’s report continued
to the members of Trifast Plc
The Group is also subject to laws and regulations where the consequence of
non‑compliance could have a material effect on the amount or disclosures in the financial
statements, for example through the imposition of fines or litigations. We identified such
laws and regulations to be health, safety and environmental laws as well as UK Bribery Act.
Our procedures in respect of the above included:
• Review of minutes of meeting of those charged with governance for any instances of
non‑compliance with laws and regulations;
• Review of correspondence with regulatory and tax authorities for any instances of
non‑compliance with laws and regulations;
• Review of financial statement disclosures and agreeing to supporting
documentation;and
• Involvement of tax specialists in the audit.
Fraud
We assessed the susceptibility of the financial statements to material misstatement,
including fraud. Our risk assessment procedures included:
• Enquiry with management and those charged with governance regarding any known or
suspected instances of fraud;
• Obtaining an understanding of the Group’s policies and procedures relating to:
• Detecting and responding to the risks of fraud; and
• Internal controls established to mitigate risks related to fraud.
• Review of minutes of meeting of those charged with governance for any known or
suspected instances of fraud;
• Discussion amongst the engagement team as to how and where fraud might occur in
the financial statements;
• Involvement of forensic specialists at the planning stage as part of the risk identification
process;
• Performing analytical procedures to identify any unusual or unexpected relationships
that may indicate risks of material misstatement due to fraud; and
• Considering remuneration incentive schemes and performance targets and the related
financial statement areas impacted by these.
Based on our risk assessment, we considered the areas most susceptible to fraud to be
inventory, revenue recognition and management override of controls.
Responsibilities of Directors
As explained more fully in the Statement of Directors’ responsibilities, the Directors are
responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that
they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the Directors determine is
necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material
misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
In preparing the financial statements, the Directors are responsible for assessing the
Group’s and the Parent Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing,
as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of
accounting unless the Directors either intend to liquidate the Group or the Parent Company
or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements
as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to
issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of
assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK)
will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from
fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could
reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of
these financial statements.
Extent to which the audit was capable of detecting irregularities,
includingfraud
Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non‑compliance with laws and regulations.
We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material
misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our
procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below:
Non-compliance with laws and regulations
Based on:
• Our understanding of the Group and the industry in which it operates;
• Discussion with management and those charged with governance; and
• Obtaining and understanding of the Group’s policies and procedures regarding
compliance with laws and regulations, we considered the significant laws and
regulations to be the applicable accounting standards, Companies Act 2006, the UK
Listing Rules and certain requirements from the UK and overseas tax legislation.
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Independent auditor’s report continued
to the members of Trifast Plc
Use of our report
This report is made solely to the Parent Company’s members, as a body, in accordance
with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken
so that we might state to the Parent Company’s members those matters we are required
to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent
permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the
Parent Company and the Parent Company’s members as a body, for our audit work, for this
report, or for the opinions we have formed.
James Fearon (Senior Statutory Auditor)
For and on behalf of BDO LLP, Statutory Auditor
Gatwick, UK
26 July 2024
BDO LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales (with registered
number OC305127).
Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements continued
Extent to which the audit was capable of detecting irregularities, including
fraud continued
Fraud continued
Our procedures in respect of the above included:
• Assessing significant estimates made by management for bias (see key audit matters);
and
• Addressing the risk of management override of controls, including testing of journals
exhibiting unusual pairings over revenue and inventory, or descriptions to supporting
documentation and evaluating whether there was evidence of bias in estimates (i.e.
inventory provisions, forecast cashflows used in impairment and going concern
assessments) or judgements by the Directors that represented a risk of material
misstatement due to fraud. To address the risk of fraud due to revenue recognition
through our journals testing, we set expectations of revenue pairings and investigated
any that fell outside that expectation. Other testing of fraud due to revenue recognition
included the testing of cut‑off of revenue and group adjustments to supporting
documentation.
We also communicated relevant identified laws and regulations and potential fraud risks
to all engagement team members including component engagement teams who were
all deemed to have appropriate competence and capabilities and remained alert to any
indications of fraud or non‑compliance with laws and regulations throughout the audit. For
component engagement teams, we also reviewed the result of their work performed in this
regard.
Our audit procedures were designed to respond to risks of material misstatement in the
financial statements, recognising that the risk of not detecting a material misstatement
due to fraud is higher than the risk of not detecting one resulting from error, as fraud may
involve deliberate concealment by, for example, forgery, misrepresentations or through
collusion. There are inherent limitations in the audit procedures performed and the further
removed non‑compliance with laws and regulations is from the events and transactions
reflected in the financial statements, the less likely we are to become aware of it.
A further description of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting Council’s
website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our
auditor’s report.
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Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Consolidated income statement
for the year ended 31 March 2024
20242023
Note£000£000
Continuing operations
Revenue
3, 35
2 33 ,67 1
24 4 , 39 1
Cost of sales
(1 74 , 4 0 4)
(1 82 ,4 62)
Gross profit
59 , 267
6 1,92 9
Other operating income
4
721
510
Distribution expenses
(6 ,6 33)
(6 ,7 2 7)
Administrative expenses before separately disclosed items
(4 1 , 3 2 1)
(4 3 , 7 2 8)
Acquired intangible amortisation
2, 13
(1,78 0)
(1 ,79 8)
Project Atlas
2
(2 ,07 9)
(1 ,72 2)
Restructuring and related charges
2
(1,4 91)
(4,235)
Impairment of non‑current assets
2, 10. 12, 13
(1,96 4)
(2 ,9 26)
Settlement for loss of office
2
—
(1 , 0 5 0)
Aborted acquisition costs
2
—
(26 1)
Total administrative expenses
(4 8 , 6 3 5)
(5 5 ,7 2 0)
Share of loss of joint venture accounted for using the equity method
36
(9 0)
—
Operating profit/(loss)
5, 6, 7
4,630
(8)
Financial income
8
269
15 8
Financial expenses
8
(5, 6 88)
(2, 8 42)
Net financing costs
(5 ,41 9)
(2, 6 8 4)
Loss before taxation
3
(78 9)
(2,69 2)
Taxation
9
(3 ,651)
(1 74)
Loss for the year
(attributable to equity shareholders of the Parent Company)
(4 , 4 4 0)
(2 , 86 6)
Loss per share
Basic
25
(3. 29)p
(2 .12)p
Diluted
25
(3. 29)p
(2 .12)p
The notes on pages 168 to 227 form part of these financial statements.
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Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income
for the year ended 31 March 2024
20242023
£000£000
Loss for the year
(4 , 4 4 0)
(2 , 86 6)
Other comprehensive income/(expense) for the year:
Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss:
Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations
(5,075)
4,05 3
Gain/(loss) on a hedge of a net investment taken to equity
889
(1 ,655)
Other comprehensive income/(expense)
(4 , 1 8 6)
2, 398
Total comprehensive (expense)/income recognised for the year
(attributable to the equity shareholders of the Parent Company)
(8,626)
(4 6 8)
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Consolidated statement of changes in equity
for the year ended 31 March 2024
ShareShareMergerOwnTranslationRetainedTotal
capitalpremiumreserveshares heldreserveearningsequity
£000£000£000£000£000£000£000
Balance at 31 March 2023
6,805
22 ,530
16,328
(3 ,017)
14 ,68 2
78 ,5 61
135, 889
Total comprehensive expense for the year:
Loss for the year
—
—
—
—
—
(4 , 4 4 0)
(4 , 4 4 0)
Other comprehensive expense for the year
—
—
—
—
(4 , 1 8 6)
—
(4 , 1 8 6)
Total comprehensive expense recognised for the year
—
—
—
—
(4 , 1 8 6)
(4 , 4 4 0)
(8,626)
Issue of share capital (note 24)
1
7
—
—
—
—
8
Share‑based payment transactions (net of tax) (note 22)
—
—
—
—
—
(6 7)
(67)
Movement in own shares held (note 24)
—
—
—
823
—
(82 3)
—
Dividends (note 24)
—
—
—
—
—
(3 ,026)
(3,0 26)
Total transactions with owners
1
7
—
823
—
(3, 91 6)
(3 ,08 5)
Balance at 31 March 2024
6,806
22, 537
16, 328
(2 ,1 9 4)
1 0,496
70, 20 5
1 24,17 8
161
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Consolidated statement of changes in equity continued
for the year ended 31 March 2023
ShareShareMergerOwnTranslationRetainedTotal
capitalpremiumreserveshares heldreserveearningsequity
£000£000£000£000£000£000£000
Balance at 31 March 2022
6,804
22, 512
16 ,328
(3, 4 87)
12, 28 4
8 4, 704
139,145
Total comprehensive income/(expense) for the year:
Loss for the year
—
—
—
—
—
(2 , 8 66)
(2 ,8 6 6)
Other comprehensive income for the year
—
—
—
—
2,39 8
—
2 ,39 8
Total comprehensive income/(expense) recognised for the year
—
—
—
—
2, 398
(2 ,8 6 6)
(4 6 8)
Issue of share capital (note 24)
1
18
—
—
—
—
19
Share‑based payment transactions (net of tax) (note 22)
—
—
—
—
—
5
5
Movement in own shares held (note 24)
—
—
—
470
—
(4 7 0)
—
Dividends (note 24)
—
—
—
—
—
(2, 81 2)
(2 , 81 2)
Total transactions with owners
1
18
—
470
—
(3 , 277)
(2,7 8 8)
Balance at 31 March 2023
6,805
2 2,530
1 6, 328
(3,017)
14,682
78 , 561
13 5, 88 9
 
162
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Company statement of changes in equity
for the year ended 31 March 2024
Share
capital
£000
Share
premium
£000
Merger
reserve
£000
Own
shares held
£000
Retained
earnings
£000
Total
equity
£000
Balance at 31 March 2023 6,805 22,530 16,328 (3,017) 19,264 61,910
Total comprehensive income for the year:
Profit for the year — — — — 4,663 4,663
Total comprehensive income recognised for the year — — — — 4,663 4,663
Issue of share capital (note 24) 1 7 — — — 8
Share‑based payment transactions (net of tax) (note 22) — — — — (80) (80)
Movement in own shares held (note 24) — — — 823 (823) —
Dividends (note 24) — — — — (3,026) (3,026)
Total transactions with owners 1 7 — 823 (3,929) (3,098)
Balance at 31 March 2024 6,806 22,537 16,328 (2,194) 19,998 63,475
163
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Company statement of changes in equity continued
for the year ended 31 March 2023
Share
capital
£000
Share
premium
£000
Merger
reserve
£000
Own
shares held
£000
Retained
earnings
£000
Total
equity
£000
Balance at 31 March 2022 6,804 22,512 16,328 (3,487) 26,866 69,023
Total comprehensive expense for the year:
Profit/(loss) for the year — — — — (4,325) (4,325)
Total comprehensive expense/(loss) recognised for the year — — — — (4,325) (4,325)
Issue of share capital (note 24) 1 18 — — — 19
Share‑based payment transactions (net of tax) (note 22) — — — — 5 5
Movement in own shares held (note 24) — — — 470 (470) —
Dividends (note 24) — — — — (2,812) (2,812)
Total transactions with owners 1 18 — 470 (3,277) (2,788)
Balance at 31 March 2023 6,805 22,530 16,328 (3,017) 19,264 61,910
164
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Statements of financial position
at 31 March 2024
Group
Company
2023
2024 £0002024 2023
Note£000(restated)£000£000
Non-current liabilities
Other interest‑bearing
loans and borrowings
20, 26
41 , 8 4 8
69, 825
41,848
69,825
Right‑of‑use liabilities
12, 20, 26
15,03 1
12, 31 5
99
17
Other payables
21
8 92
1,0 77
—
—
Provisions
23
1, 548
1,443
—
—
Deferred tax liabilities
16, 17
2 ,1 05
1,663
—
—
Total non-current liabilities
61 , 424
8 6, 323
41,947
69,842
Total liabilities
3
105, 981
130,69 7
50,672
72,654
Net assets
124 ,178
135, 8 89
63,475
61,910
Equity
Share capital
6,806
6 ,805
6,806
6,805
Share premium
22 , 537
2 2,530
22,537
22,530
Merger reserve
16,328
16, 328
16,328
16,328
Own shares held
(2 ,1 9 4)
(3 ,017)
(2,194)
(3,017)
Translation reserves
10,49 6
14,682
—
—
Retained earnings
70 , 20 5
78 ,5 61
19,998
19,264
Total equity
124 ,178
135 ,8 89
63,475
61,910
The profit after tax for the Company is £4.6m (FY23: loss after tax £4.3m).
The notes on pages 168 to 227 form part of these financial statements.
These financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 26 July 2024 and
were signed on its behalf by:
Iain Percival
Director
Group
Company
2023
2024 £0002024 2023
Note£000(restated)£000£000
Non-current assets
Property, plant and
equipment
10, 11
1 9 ,070
1 9, 417
5
6
Right‑of‑use assets
12
16,45 0
14, 395
55
36
Intangible assets
13, 14
36 , 275
40,451
6,097
7,854
Equity investments
15, 36
159
—
42,186
42,298
Non‑current trade and
other receivables
19
—
—
61,208
76,848
Deferred tax assets
16, 17
4, 256
4, 289
63
998
Total non-current assets
76, 21 0
78 ,5 52
109,614
128,040
Current assets
Inventories
18
73 ,403
90,9 48
—
—
Trade and other receivables
19
59,039
6 3,1 5 8
3,623
3,754
Assets classified
as held for sale
10, 11, 29
623
2,1 30
—
2,130
Cash and cash equivalents
26
2 0,8 84
31, 798
910
640
Total current assets
153, 949
1 88 ,034
4,533
6,524
Total assets
3
230, 159
266,5 86
114,147
134,564
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables
21
3 6,21 8
35 , 5 07
1,660
2,395
Right‑of‑use liabilities
12, 20, 26
3 , 392
3,49 8
11
21
Other interest‑bearing
loans and borrowings
20, 26
—
—
6,447
—
Provisions
23
2 ,432
2,8 09
607
396
Liabilities classified
as held for sale
29
348
—
—
—
Tax payable
2 ,1 67
2, 560
—
—
Total current liabilities
44 , 557
44,37 4
8,725
2,812
165
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Statements of cash flows
for the year ended 31 March 2024
Group
Company
2023
2024 £0002024 2023
Note£000(restated)£000£000
Cash flows from operating activities
(Loss)/profit for the year
(4 , 4 4 0)
(2 , 8 66)
4,663
(4,325)
Adjustments for:
Depreciation and amortisation
10, 11, 13, 14
5,61 6
5 , 47 1
710
638
Right‑of‑use asset depreciation
12
4,0 68
3,640
26
23
Unrealised foreign currency loss/(gain)
(24 8)
(5 0)
1
(43)
Financial income
8
(2 69)
(1 58)
(1,792)
(1,268)
Financial expense (excluding right‑of‑use liabilities)
8
4 ,8 93
2,412
4,914
2,383
Right‑of‑use liabilities’ financial expense
8, 12
79 6
430
3
1
Profit on assets classified as held for sale
(2 , 01 4)
—
(2,014)
—
Loss/(profit) on sale of property, plant and equipment, intangibles and investments
(59)
149
—
9
Dividends received
—
—
(15,657)
(7,4 34)
Equity settled share‑based payment charge
(1 01)
24
1
(398)
Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets
2, 3, 13
1 , 476
2,926
1,476
—
Gain on termination of right‑of‑use liabilities and expense on lease back
2
(4 5 4)
—
44
—
Loans due to subsidiaries written back
—
—
(267)
—
Investments and loans/debtors due from subsidiaries written off
—
—
175
—
Impairment of right‑of‑use assets and property, plant and equipment
2, 10, 11, 12
1 ,330
1 , 426
—
—
Taxation expense/(income)
9
3,651
1 74
953
(300)
Operating cash inflow/(outflow) before changes in working capital and provisions
14 , 245
13, 578
(6,764)
(10,714)
Change in trade and other receivables
(4)
392
1,037
(536)
Change in inventories
14,977
215
—
—
Change in trade and other payables
3, 593
(10, 4 87)
(450)
661
Change in provisions
(9 0 0)
2 ,792
214
396
Cash generated from/(used in) operations
31,91 1
6,49 0
(5,963)
(10,193)
Tax paid
(3 ,335)
(3 , 5 29)
(10)
—
Net cash generated from/(used in) operating activities
28 , 576
2,9 61
(5,973)
(10,193)
166
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Statements of cash flows continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
Group
Company
2023
2024 £0002024 2023
Note£000(restated)£000£000
Cash flows from investing activities
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment
91
27
—
—
Proceeds from sale of assets classified as held for sale
10
4,1 4 4
—
4,144
—
Interest received
265
138
804
366
Investment in joint venture
(1 62)
—
—
—
Acquisition of property, plant and equipment and intangibles
10, 11, 13, 14
(4 , 5 7 3)
(5,625)
(429)
(1,394)
Lending to subsidiary undertakings
—
—
(6,421)
(9,897)
Repayment by subsidiary undertakings
—
—
20,512
2,125
Dividends received
—
—
15,115
7,43
4
Net cash generated (used in)/from investing activities
(235)
(5 , 4 6 0)
33,725
(1,366)
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from the issue of share capital
24
8
19
8
19
Proceeds from new loan
—
1 6,423
—
16,423
Repayment of external loans
33
(116,500)
—
(116,500)
—
Proceeds from external loans
33
91 , 414
—
91,414
—
Proceeds from loans from subsidiaries
—
—
6,447
—
Repayment of right‑of‑use liabilities
12
(3, 362)
(3 ,79 2)
(22)
(24)
Dividends paid
24
(3,02 6)
(2 , 8 12)
(3,026)
(2,812)
Interest paid
(6 ,70 2)
(2 ,47 7)
(5,803)
(2,011)
Net cash generated (used in)/from financing activities
(38 ,1 6 8)
7, 3 6 1
(27,482)
11,595
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
(9, 827)
4 ,8 62
270
36
Cash and cash equivalents at 1 April
31 ,798
2 6 , 74 1
640
604
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash held
(1, 08 7)
1 95
—
—
Cash and cash equivalents at 31 March
2 0,8 84
31,7 98
910
640
167
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
1 Material accounting policies
a) Material accounting policies
Trifast plc (the ‘Company’) is a company incorporated in the United Kingdom.
The registered office details are on page 232.
The consolidated financial statements consolidate those of the Company and its
subsidiaries (together referred to as the ‘Group’). The Company financial statements
present information about the Company as a separate entity and not about its Group.
Statement of compliance
Both the Company financial statements and the consolidated financial statements have
been prepared and approved by the Directors in accordance with UK‑adopted International
Accounting Standards as applicable to companies reporting under those standards.
On publishing the Company financial statements here together with the consolidated
financial statements, the Company is taking advantage of the exemption in S408 of the
Companies Act 2006 not to present its individual income statement and related notes that
form a part of these approved financial statements.
The material accounting policies set out below have, unless otherwise stated, been
applied consistently to all periods presented in these consolidated and Company financial
statements.
A number of amendments to existing standards are also effective from 1 April 2023 but
they do not have a material effect on the Group financial statements.
There are a number of standards, amendments to standards, and interpretations which
have been issued by the IASB that are effective in future accounting periods that the
Group has decided not to adopt early.
The following amendments are effective for the period beginning on or after
1 January 2024:
• IAS 7 Supplier Finance Arrangements (Amendment – Disclosure of Accounting Policies)
• IAS 16 Sale and Leaseback (Amendment – Recognition of Gains and Losses)
• IAS 1 Classification of Liabilities as Current or Non‑Current & Covenants (Amendment –
Disclosure of Accounting Policies)
The following standards and amendments are effective for the period beginning on or after
1 January 2025:
• IAS 21 Lack of Exchangeability – Explicit Requirements for Determination of an
Exchange Rate
• IFRS 18 Presentation and Disclosure in Financial Statements
• IFRS 19 Subsidiaries without Public Accountability: Disclosures
The Group is currently assessing the impact of these accounting standards and
amendments. The Group does not expect them to have a significant impact on the
financial statements.
b) Basis of preparation
The financial statements are prepared in Sterling (which is also the functional currency),
rounded to the nearest thousand. They are prepared on the historical cost basis with the
exception of certain items which are measured at fair value as disclosed in the accounting
policies below.
The preparation of the financial statements requires management to make judgements,
estimates and assumptions that affect the application of policies and reported amounts of
assets and liabilities, income and expenses. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to
accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised if the
revision affects only that period or in the period of the revision and future periods if the
revision affects current and future periods.
Judgements made by management in the application of Adopted IFRS that have
significant effect on the financial statements and estimates with a significant risk of
material adjustment in the next year is discussed in note 30.
Going concern
A review of the business activity and future prospects of the Group is covered in the
accompanying strategic report. The financial position of the Group, its cash flows, liquidity
position and borrowing facilities are specifically described in the financial review on pages
28 to 35. Detailed information regarding the Group’s current facility levels, liquidity, credit,
interest and foreign exchange risk is provided in note 26.
168
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
1 Material accounting policies continued
b) Basis of preparation continued
Going concern continued
Current trading and forecasts show that the Group will continue to generate positive
EBITDA and generate cash. The banking facilities and covenants (leverage and interest
cover) that are in place and amendment obtained subsequent to the year end provide
appropriate headroom against forecasts based on the current outlook. There are some
headwinds in the global economic environment including the elevated interest rate
environment; however, should there be adverse factors beyond expectation including
further increases in interest rates, the Directors are confident, given the low levels of
leverage within the business and the expectation that this will reduce further, that
these would be mitigated. As such, the Directors do not consider there to be material
uncertainties relating to events or conditions that may be relevant to the next 12 months
from signing of the annual financial statements, which cast doubt on the going concern
status. Management has also performed reverse stress testing scenarios to identify the
points at which limits for EBITDA and net debt are breached, the key inputs of which have
been disclosed on pages 76 and 77. Thus, the Directors have a reasonable expectation that
the Group has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable
future and hence they continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in
preparing the annual financial statements.
Climate change
In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management have considered the
impact of the climate‑related risks and opportunities on the business, including short‑term
(0–3 years) and medium‑term (3–15 years) transitional risks resulting from a shift
towards a more sustainable future. Management have considered the potential effects of
climate‑related changes in its assessment of going concern and viability of the business,
future cash flow forecasts underpinning impairment testing, and in its assessment of the
residual values of property, plant and equipment. Management have determined that,
other than expected impact of CBAM tax on cash flows in Europe and expected capital
expenditure while we continue to invest in projects to reduce our carbon footprints, both
of which have been factored into the Group’s cash flow forecasts, there is no material
impact on these financial statements.
c) Basis of consolidation
i) Subsidiaries
Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the Group. Control exists when the Group is exposed,
or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the investee and has the ability
to affect those returns through its power over the investee. The financial statements of
subsidiaries are included in the consolidated financial statements of the Group from the
date that control commences until the date that control ceases.
Non‑controlling interests (NCI) are measured at their proportionate share of the investee’s
identifiable net assets at the date of acquisition.
ii) Transactions eliminated on consolidation
Intra‑Group balances, and any unrealised gains and losses or income and expenses arising from
intra‑Group transactions, are eliminated in preparing the consolidated financial statements.
d) Foreign currency
i) Foreign currency transactions
Transactions in foreign currencies are translated at the foreign exchange rate ruling at the
date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at
the balance sheet date are translated to functional currencies at the foreign exchange rate
ruling at that date. Foreign exchange differences arising on translation are recognised in
the consolidated income statement. Non‑monetary assets and liabilities that are measured
in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rate at
the date of the transaction.
ii) Financial statements of foreign operations
The assets and liabilities of foreign operations, including goodwill and fair value
adjustments arising on consolidation, are translated to Sterling at foreign exchange
rates ruling at the balance sheet date. The revenues and expenses of foreign operations
are translated to Sterling at average rates of exchange for the period, where this rate
approximates to the foreign exchange rates ruling at the dates of the transactions.
Foreign exchange differences arising on retranslation are recognised in a separate
component of equity, the translation reserve, through other comprehensive income.
They are released into the income statement as part of the gain or loss on disposal.
e) Hedge of net investment in foreign operations
The portion of the gain or loss on an instrument used to hedge a net investment in a
foreign operation that is determined to be an effective hedge is recognised in OCI and
presented in the translation reserve within equity. The ineffective portion is recognised
immediately in the income statement. The effective portion is recycled and recognised in
the income statement upon disposal of the operation.
f) Property, plant and equipment
i) Owned assets
Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost or deemed cost less accumulated
depreciation (see below) and impairment losses (see accounting policy (j)).
169
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
1 Material accounting policies continued
f) Property, plant and equipment continued
ii) Depreciation
Depreciation is charged to the income statement on a straight‑line basis over the
estimated useful lives of each part of an item of property, plant and equipment. Land is not
depreciated. The depreciation rates are as follows:
Freehold and long leasehold buildings — 2% per annum on a straight‑line basis or the
period of the lease
Short leasehold properties — period of the lease
Motor vehicles — 20–25% per annum on a straight‑line basis
Plant and machinery — 10–20% per annum on a straight‑line basis
Fixtures, fittings and office equipment — 10–25% per annum on a straight‑line basis
When parts of an item of property, plant and equipment have different useful lives,
those components are accounted for as separate items of property, plant and equipment.
Where relevant, residual values are reassessed annually.
iii) Right-of-use leases
The Group’s leases primarily comprise of right‑of‑use assets regarding land and buildings,
motor vehicles and equipment. Short‑term leases (<12 months) and leases for which the
underlying asset is of a low value (<£4,000) are excluded.
The Group recognises a right‑of‑use asset and a lease liability at the lease commencement
date. The right‑of‑use asset is initially measured at cost, and subsequently at cost less any
accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. The right‑of‑use asset is subsequently
depreciated using the straight‑line method from the lease commencement date to the end
of the lease term. In addition, the right‑of‑use asset is periodically reduced by impairment
losses, if any, and adjusted for certain remeasurements of the lease liability.
The lease liability is initially measured at the present value of the lease payments (excluding
non‑lease components) that are not paid at the commencement date, discounted using the
interest rate implicit in the lease or, if that rate cannot be readily determined, the lessee’s
incremental borrowing rate. Generally, the Group uses its incremental borrowing rate.
The lease liabilities are subsequently increased by the interest cost on the lease liability and
decreased by lease payments made. The liability will be remeasured if there is a change in
the future lease payments or if there are changes in the estimated length of the lease.
The lease period is established as the non‑cancellable period together with the
opportunity to extend the lease if the lessee is reasonably certain to utilise that option, and
periods covered by an opportunity to terminate the lease if the lessee is reasonably certain
not to utilise that option.
iv) Subsequent costs
The Group recognises in the carrying amount of an item of property, plant and equipment
the cost of replacing part of such an item when that cost is incurred, if it is probable that
the future economic benefits embodied within the item will flow to the Group and the
cost of the item can be measured reliably. All other costs are recognised in the income
statement as an expense as incurred.
g) Intangible assets
i) On business combinations
All business combinations are accounted for by applying the acquisition method. In respect
of business combinations that have occurred since 1 April 2004, goodwill represents the
difference between the fair value of the consideration transferred and the fair value of
the net identifiable assets acquired. Identifiable intangibles are those which can be sold
separately or which arise from legal rights regardless of whether those rights are separable.
Costs related to the acquisition, other than those associated with the issue of debt or
equity securities, are expensed as incurred. Any contingent consideration payable is
recognised at fair value at the acquisition date. For non‑equity amounts any subsequent
changes to the fair value are recognised in the profit and loss.
Positive goodwill arising on acquisitions is stated at cost less any accumulated impairment
losses. Goodwill is allocated to cash generating units and is not amortised but is tested
annually for impairment (see accounting policy (j)).
Negative goodwill arising on an acquisition is recognised directly in profit or loss.
170
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
1 Material accounting policies continued
g) Intangible assets continued
ii) Other intangible assets
Expenditure on Project Atlas is capitalised as the system is technically and commercially
feasible, and the Group intends to and has the technical ability and sufficient resources to
complete development, future economic benefits are probable and the Group can measure
reliably the expenditure attributable to the asset during its development. The expenditure
capitalised is directly attributable to the design and build of the new system and includes
the cost of materials and external consultants as well as an appropriate allocation of
overheads. Other development expenditure is recognised in the income statement as
an expense as incurred. Capitalised development expenditure is stated at cost less
accumulated amortisation and less accumulated impairment losses.
Intangible assets other than goodwill that are acquired by the Group are stated at cost less
accumulated amortisation (see below) and impairment losses (see accounting policy (j)).
Expenditure on internally generated goodwill and brands is recognised in the income
statement as an expense as incurred.
iii) Subsequent expenditure
Subsequent expenditure on capitalised intangible assets is capitalised only when it
increases the future economic benefits embodied in the specific asset to which it relates.
All other expenditure is expensed as incurred.
iv) Amortisation
Amortisation is charged to the consolidated income statement in administrative expenses
on a straight‑line basis over the estimated useful lives of intangible assets, unless such
lives are indefinite. Goodwill and intangible assets with an indefinite useful life are tested
systematically for impairment at each annual balance sheet date. The amortisation rates of
other intangible assets per annum are as follows:
Customer relationships — 6.7% to 12.5%
Technology — 6.7% to 10%
Order backlog — 100%
Marketing – related — 8.3% to 20%
Other — 20% to 33%
h) Non-derivative financial instruments
i) Investments in subsidiaries
Investments in subsidiaries are held in the Company balance sheet at historic cost net of
any impairment (see accounting policy (j)).
ii) Trade and other receivables
Trade and other receivables are recognised initially at the transaction price when they
originated, and subsequently at amortised cost less impairment losses (see accounting
policy (j)). Interest income, foreign exchange gains and losses and impairment are
recognised in profit or loss. Any gain or loss on derecognition is recognised in profit or loss.
iii) Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash balances and call deposits with an original
maturity of three months or less. Bank overdrafts that are repayable on demand and form
an integral part of the Group’s cash management are included as a component of cash and
cash equivalents only for the purpose of the statements of cash flows.
iv) Interest-bearing borrowings
Interest‑bearing borrowings are recognised initially at fair value net of any transaction
costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, interest‑bearing borrowings are stated at
amortised cost using the effective interest method. Interest expense and foreign exchange
gains and losses are recognised in profit or loss. Any gain or loss on derecognition is also
recognised in profit or loss.
v) Trade and other payables
Trade and other payables are recognised initially at fair value. Subsequently, they are
measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. Interest expense and
foreign exchange gains and losses are recognised in profit or loss. Any gain or loss on
derecognition is also recognised in profit or loss.
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Financial statements
Additional information
1 Material accounting policies continued
i) Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value with provision being
made for obsolete and slow‑moving items. This policy is applied consistently across the
Group, however the estimation techniques used by the subsidiaries vary depending on
the underlying data available. In determining the cost of raw materials, consumables
and goods purchased for resale, a first‑in first‑out purchase price is used and includes
expenditure incurred in acquiring the inventories and bringing them to their existing
location and condition. For work in progress and finished goods manufactured by the
Group, cost is taken as production cost, which includes an appropriate proportion of
attributable overheads based on normal operating capacity.
j) Impairment
The carrying amounts of the Group’s assets, other than inventories (see accounting policy
(i)), and deferred tax assets (see accounting policy (p)), are reviewed at each balance sheet
date to determine whether there is any indication of impairment.
Financial assets measured at amortised cost and contract assets (as defined in IFRS 15) are
considered to be credit‑impaired if evidence indicates that one or more events has had a
negative effect on the estimated future cash flows of that asset.
When determining whether evidence indicates there is a negative effect on estimated
future cash flows, the Company considers reasonable and supportable information that
is relevant and available without undue cost or effort. This includes both quantitative and
qualitative information and analysis, based on the Company’s historical experience and
informed credit assessment and including forward‑looking information.
Loss allowances for expected credit losses (ECLs) are recognised when they are expected
to arise as the present value of all cash shortfalls (i.e. the difference between the cash
flows due to the entity in accordance with the contract and the cash flows that the
Company expects to receive). ECLs are discounted at the effective interest rate of the
financial asset where appropriate.
The Company measures loss allowances at an amount equal to lifetime ECL, except
for other debt securities and bank balances for which credit risk (i.e. the risk of default
occurring over the expected life of the financial instrument) has not increased significantly
since initial recognition, which are measured as 12‑month ECL.
Lifetime ECLs are the ECLs that result from all possible default events over the expected
life of a financial instrument. 12‑month ECLs are the portion of ECLs that result from default
events that are possible within the 12 months after the reporting date (or a shorter period if
the expected life of the instrument is less than 12 months).
The gross carrying amount of a financial asset is written off (either partially or in full) to the
extent that there is no realistic prospect of recovery.
For goodwill and other intangible assets that have an indefinite useful life, the recoverable
amount is estimated at each annual balance sheet date.
An impairment loss is recognised whenever the carrying amount of an asset or its cash
generating unit exceeds its recoverable amount. Impairment losses are recognised in the
consolidated income statement unless the asset is recorded at a revalued amount, in which
case it is treated as a revaluation decrease.
Impairment losses recognised in respect of cash generating units are allocated first to
reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to cash generating units and then
to reduce the carrying amount of the other assets in the unit on a pro‑rata basis. A cash
generating unit is the smallest identifiable group of assets that generates cash inflows that
are largely independent of the cash inflows from other assets or groups of assets.
i) Calculation of recoverable amount
The recoverable amount is the greater of net selling price and value in use. In assessing
value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a
pre‑tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money
and the risks specific to the asset. For an asset that does not generate largely independent
cash inflows, the recoverable amount is determined for the cash generating unit to which
the asset belongs.
ii) Reversals of impairment
An impairment loss in respect of goodwill is not reversed. An impairment loss on any other
asset is assessed at each reporting date and is reversed only to the extent that the asset’s
carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined,
net of depreciation or amortisation, if no impairment loss had been recognised.
k) Dividends
Dividends to the Company’s shareholders are recognised as a liability and deducted from
shareholders’ equity in the period in which the shareholders’ right to receive payment is
established.
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
172
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
1 Material accounting policies continued
l) Employee benefits
i) Defined contribution plans
The Group operates defined contribution pension schemes which include stakeholder
pension plans. The assets of these schemes are held separately from those of the Group
in independently administered funds. The amount charged against profits represents the
contributions payable to the schemes in respect of the accounting period. The Group
pays fixed contributions and will have no legal or constructive obligation to pay further
amounts.
ii) Share-based payment transactions
The grant‑date fair value of equity settled share‑based payment arrangements granted to
employees is generally recognised as an expense, with a corresponding increase in equity,
over the vesting period of the awards. The amount recognised as an expense is adjusted
to reflect the number of awards for which the related service and non‑market performance
conditions are expected to be met, such that the amount ultimately recognised is based
on the number of awards that meet the related service and non‑market performance
conditions at the vesting date. For share‑based payment awards with non‑vesting
conditions and market performance conditions, the grant‑date fair value of the
share‑based payment is measured to reflect such conditions and there is no true‑up for
differences between expected and actual outcomes.
The fair value of the amount payable to employees in respect of cash settled awards
is recognised as an expense with a corresponding increase in liabilities over the period
during which the employees become unconditionally entitled to payment. The liability is
remeasured at each reporting date and at settlement date based on the fair value of the
award. Any changes in the liability are recognised in profit or loss.
Where the Company grants awards over its own shares to the employees of its subsidiaries,
it recognises, in its individual financial statements, an amount owed by subsidiary
undertakings if the cost will be recharged. If the cost is not recharged, it is recognised as
an increase in the cost of investment in its subsidiaries. In both cases, the corresponding
balance is recognised in equity or liabilities depending on the method of settlement.
The amount recognised is equivalent to the share‑based payment charge recognised in
its consolidated financial statements.
iii) Termination benefits
Termination benefits are recognised as an expense when the Group is demonstrably
committed, without realistic possibility of withdrawal, to a formal plan to terminate
employment before the normal retirement date.
m) Provisions
A provision is recognised in the balance sheet when the Group has a present legal or
constructive obligation as a result of a past event, and it is probable that an outflow
of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation. If the effect is material,
provisions are determined by discounting the expected future cash flows at a pre‑tax
rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and, when
appropriate, the risks specific to the liability.
n) Revenue
Revenue from the sale of goods rendered is recognised net of VAT in the consolidated
income statement when the performance obligation is satisfied and the customer obtains
control which is based on customer agreements. In accordance with normal practice,
there is a single performance obligation, which is on dispatch of goods or at the point of
customer acceptance where appropriate in accordance with the Incoterms agreed with the
customers. The transaction price is determined by the invoice amount with adjustments
made for variable consideration (i.e. rebates) where applicable.
Payment terms across the Group vary depending on the geographic location of each
operating company. Payment is typically due between 30 and 90 days after the invoice
is issued.
Variable consideration relating to volume rebates has been constrained in estimating
revenue in order that it is highly probable that there will not be a future reversal in the
amount of revenue recognised when the amount of volume rebates has been determined.
o) Expenses
i) Repayment of right-of-use liabilities
Minimum lease payments are apportioned between the finance charge and the reduction
of the outstanding liability. The finance charge is allocated to each period during the lease
term so as to produce a constant periodic rate of interest on the remaining balance of the
liability.
ii) Net financing costs
Net financing costs comprise interest payable on borrowings and right‑of‑use liabilities
calculated using the effective interest rate method and interest receivable on funds
invested. Interest income is recognised in the consolidated income statement as it accrues,
using the effective interest method. Net finance costs also include the amortisation of
arrangement fees and related costs.
173
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
1 Material accounting policies continued
p) Taxation
Tax on the profit or loss for the period presented comprises current and deferred tax.
Tax is recognised in the consolidated income statement except to the extent that it relates
to items recognised directly in equity, in which case it is recognised in equity.
Current tax is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the year, using tax rates
enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date, and any adjustment to tax
payable in respect of previous years.
Deferred tax is provided using the balance sheet liability method, providing for temporary
differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting
purposes and the amounts used for taxation purposes. The following temporary
differences are not provided for: the initial recognition of goodwill not deductible for
tax purposes, the initial recognition of assets or liabilities that affect neither accounting
nor taxable profit (applicable for all transactions other than business combinations), and
differences relating to investments in subsidiaries to the extent that they will probably
not reverse in the foreseeable future. The amount of deferred tax provided is based on
the expected manner of realisation or settlement of the carrying amount of assets and
liabilities, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date.
A deferred tax asset is recognised only to the extent that it is probable that future taxable
profits will be available against which the asset can be utilised. Deferred tax assets are
reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that the related tax benefit will be realised.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when the Group has a legally enforceable right
to offset current tax assets and liabilities and the deferred tax assets and liabilities relate to
taxes levied by the same tax authority on either:
• The same taxable Group company
• Different Group entities which intend either to settle current tax assets and liabilities on
a net basis, or to realise the assets and settle the liabilities simultaneously, in each future
period in which significant amounts of deferred tax assets or liabilities are expected to
be settled or recovered
Additional income taxes that arise from the distribution of dividends are recognised at the
same time as the liability to pay the related dividend. Information as to the calculation of
income tax on the profit or loss for the period presented is included in note 9.
q) Operating segment reporting
A segment is a distinguishable component of the Group that engages in business
activities from which it may earn revenues and incur expenditure (including revenues
and expenses relating to transactions with other components of the same entity), whose
operating results are regularly reviewed by the Group’s Chief Operating Decision Maker
(the Executive Leadership Team) in order to make decisions about allocating resources
and to assess its performance, and for which discrete financial information is available.
The Group operates in a number of geographical economic environments. The Company
only operates in one business segment, being the manufacture and logistical supply of
industrial fasteners and Category ‘C’ components.
r) Earnings per share
The Group presents basic and diluted earnings per share (EPS) data for its ordinary shares.
Basic EPS is calculated by dividing the profit or loss attributable to ordinary shareholders
of the Company by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during
the period. Diluted EPS is determined by adjusting the weighted average number of
ordinary shares outstanding for the effects of all dilutive potential ordinary shares, which
comprise share options and deferred equity awards granted to employees.
s) Underlying measure of profits and losses
The Group believes that underlying operating profit and underlying profit before tax
provide additional guidance to statutory measures to help understand the underlying
performance of the business during the financial period. The term ‘underlying’ is not
defined under Adopted IFRS. It is a measure that is used by management to assess the
underlying performance of the business internally and is not intended to be a substitute
measure for Adopted IFRS GAAP measures. The Group defines these underlying measures
as follows:
Underlying profit before tax is profit before taxation and separately disclosed items (see
note 2).
Underlying profit after tax is profit after taxation but before separately disclosed items
(see note 2) and is used in the calculation of underlying earnings per share.
Underlying operating and segment results (see note 3) are operating and segment profit
before separately disclosed items.
It should be noted that the definitions of underlying items being used in these financial
statements are those used by the Group and may not be comparable with the term
‘underlying’ as defined by other companies within the same sector or elsewhere.
Separately disclosed items are included within the income statement caption to which
they relate.
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
174
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
1 Material accounting policies continued
t) Separately disclosed items (see note 2)
Separately disclosed items are those significant items which in management’s judgement
should be highlighted by virtue of their size or incidence to enable a full understanding of
the Group’s financial performance.
IAS 1 permits an entity to present additional information for specific items to enable users
to better assess the entity’s financial performance. The Directors have considered the
requirements of applicable accounting standards, along with additional guidance around
Alternative Performance Measures (APMs), and believe it is appropriate to inform users
regarding various items and disclose those items which are deemed one‑off, material
or non‑recurring in size or nature, in alignment with the Group’s internal management
reporting. As such, the Group is disclosing as supplementary information an ‘underlying
profit before tax’ APM which is reconciled to statutory profit in the notes to the financial
statements and is consistent with IFRS 8 segmental reporting.
Separate presentation of the ‘separate disclosed items’ is intended to enhance understanding
of the financial performance of the Group in the particular year under review and the extent
to which results are influenced by material unusual and/or non‑recurring items. The Directors
review segmental results under an underlying basis before these ‘separately disclosed items’ to
analyse the performance of operating segments.
The Directors exercise judgement in determining the classification of certain items as
‘separately disclosed items’ using quantitative and qualitative factors. ‘Separately disclosed
items’ are those significant items which in the Directors judgement should be highlighted
by virtue of their size or incidence to enable a full understanding of the Group’s financial
performance and the specific circumstances which have led to the item arising and if the
item is likely to recur.
u) Own shares acquired by Employee Benefit Trust
The Employee Benefit Trust (EBT) provides for the issue of shares to Group employees
under share‑based payment arrangements. The Company is the sole funder of the EBT, and
all shares and assets held by the EBT are held under a trust arrangement for the benefit of
Group employees and the Company, and the Company therefore accounts for the EBT as
an extension to the Company in the financial statements.
Repurchased shares (classified as own shares acquired) are recognised at the amount
of consideration paid, which includes directly attributable costs, as a deduction from
equity. They are presented separately in equity as own shares held. When the shares are
subsequently sold or used to settle future equity award commitments, the amount received
is recognised as an increase in equity.
175
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
2 Underlying profit before tax and separately disclosed items
2024 2023
Note £000 £000
Underlying profit before tax
6,525
9,300
Separately disclosed items within administrative expenses
Acquired intangible amortisation
13
(1,780)
(1,798)
Project Atlas
(2,079)
(1,722)
Restructuring and reorganisation related charges
(1,491)
(4,235)
Impairment of non‑current assets
13
(1,964)
(2,926)
Settlement for loss of office
—
(1,050)
Aborted acquisition costs
—
(261)
Profit/(loss) before tax
(789)
(2,692)
1
2024 2023
Note £000 £000
Underlying EBITDA
19,848
19,297
Separately disclosed items within administrative expenses
Project Atlas
(2,079)
(1,722)
Restructuring and reorganisation related charges
(1,491)
(4,235)
Impairment of non‑current assets
13
(1,964)
(2,926)
Settlement for loss of office
—
(1,050)
Aborted acquisition costs
—
(261)
EBITDA
14,314
9,103
Acquired intangible amortisation
13
(1,780)
(1,798)
Depreciation and non‑acquired amortisation
(7,904)
(7, 313)
Operating profit/(loss)
4,630
(8)
1
1. The settlement for loss of office costs of £0.5m (FY23: £1.1m) is included within restructuring and reorganisational related charges, see note 2 and note 7
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
176
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2023
2 Underlying profit before tax and separately disclosed items continued
Recurring items
Intangible amortisation relating to acquisitions has been separately disclosed so as to
present the trading performance of the respective entities with a charge on a comparable
basis to other entities in the Group.
Event-driven items
Project Atlas is a multi‑year investment into our IT infrastructure and underlying business
processes. As a consequence of the work undertaken to date on this project, we have
incurred direct costs of £1.1m in FY24 (FY23: £1.7m), largely relating to the project team
and the ongoing roll out. We have excluded these costs from our underlying results, to
reflect the unusual scale and one‑off nature of this multi‑year project. The cost has been
excluded in order to provide shareholders with a better understanding of our underlying
trading performance during this period of investment. This investment will be recorded
as a combination of capital expenditure and separately disclosed items, dependent on
accounting convention. The financial impact of the work undertaken to date on this project
totals direct costs of £1.3m in FY24 (cumulatively £18.7m), of which £0.2m has been
recognised (cumulatively £8.2m) as intangible assets on the balance sheet. Out of the
£8.2m recognised as intangible assets on the balance sheet cumulatively as at 31 March
2024, £7.3m has been capitalised in relation to the sites which have gone live on the new
IT system. Subsequent to the year end, TR Houston IT system went live in April 2024 which
completes the current phase of investment in this IT system.
Project Atlas costs also include impairment of intangible assets under development
related to a ‘customer engagement’ software being developed amounting to £0.9m. These
costs were incurred primarily in the previous years and the project was shelved as it was
apparent that the solution would not be truly global and will result in significant additional
cost before the project can benefit the entire group. An alternate ‘customer engagement’
system is currently being developed‑inhouse called ‘Connect360’ and is scheduled to go
live in FY25.
Restructuring and reorganisation charges of £1.5m in the current year primarily comprises
of the following:
2024 2023
£000 £000
National Distribution Centre costs
2,363
—
Restructuring and other related charges Q4 FY23
programme
(901)
4,235
Profit on sale of assets related to restructuring
(2,014)
—
Restructuring and other related charges Q4 FY24
programme
1,871
—
Others
172
—
Total
1,491
4,235
In FY23 restructuring and reorganisation charges of £4.2m were as a result of a strategic
review of operations and functions initiated in Q4 FY23 and approved by the Board on
28 March 2023. The charges included costs in respect of a down‑sizing of personnel,
primarily within the UK, due to the centralisation of multi‑site distribution centres
into a National Distribution Centre (NDC) in the Midlands and the closure of our UK
manufacturing site in Uckfield. These efficiency initiatives resulted in restructuring costs
including redundancies. The charges also included impairment of non‑current assets
due to the closure of certain offices and warehouses within the UK directly related to the
restructuring programme initiative and setting up the NDC. The closure of the offices/
warehouses and redundancies occurred during the financial year FY24 and the last move
related to Manchester site was completed in June FY25.
As a result of the restructuring initiated in Q4 FY23 set up charges relating to the National
Distribution Centre amounting to £2.4m were incurred, primarily relating to cost incurred
towards the project team, professional fees and other related costs incurred for closure of
sites across the UK and setting up the NDC in the Midlands.
Income of £0.9m is the write back of right‑of‑use liabilities on assignment of the lease
that was previously impaired of £0.5m and the remaining relates to release of certain
redundancy provisions not required both related to the restructuring programme initiated
in Q4 FY23.
177
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
2 Underlying profit before tax and separately disclosed items continued
Event-driven items continued
Profit on sale of assets held for sale of £2.0m relates to the freehold land and building
at Bellbrook Park, Uckfield, which was classified as held for sale in FY23 and was
disposed of as part of the Q4 FY23 restructuring programme. The sale was completed
in October 2024.
Further to our announcement on 22 January 2024, we have provided for restructuring and
related charges of £1.9m are a result of a further Group restructuring programme initiated
in Q4 FY24 and approved by the Board in March 2024 to further reduce operating cost
through a c.10% cutback in our non‑operational staff globally. As part of this restructure,
we will establish a leaner organisational structure to enable faster decision‑making.
In parallel, we are undertaking a strategic review of our global footprint and initiated
a transformation programme to identify further cost efficiencies which will reset our
business for the future. ‘Others’ in the table above include professional fees incurred
towards initiating the transformation programme.
Impairment of non‑current assets in FY24 of £1.9m (£0.5m Intangible assets, £1.0m
Right‑of‑use assets and Property, plant & equipment £0.4m) relates to TR Hungary Kft
(‘TR Hungary’) cash generating unit. Impairment of goodwill of £2.9m in FY23 relates to
the TR Italy SPA (‘TR Italy’) cash generating unit. We have excluded these costs from our
underlying results both due to their size and incidence. See note 13 for further details.
Settlement for loss of office costs of £1.0m were recognised in the prior year due to the
CFO and CEO leaving the Group in FY23. The costs include payment in lieu of notice,
compensation for loss of office and loss of contractual benefits. We have excluded these
costs from our underlying results both due to their size and incidence. Aborted acquisition
costs of £0.3m in FY23 were incurred in the year in relation to a potential target which was
aborted in July 2022. They are excluded from underlying results to help provide a better
understanding of the trading performance of the Group.
Management removes the event‑driven costs and unusual and non‑recurring items
discussed above to allow the reader of the accounts to understand the underlying trading
performance of the Group. Further reconciliations of underlying measures to GAAP
measures can be found in note 32. The underlying measures may not be comparable across
companies. The exclusion of separately disclosed items may result in underlying measures
being materially higher or lower than the statutory measures. In particular, when significant
impairments and restructuring charges are excluded, underlying measures will be higher
than the statutory measures.
3 Operating segmental analysis
Segment information, as discussed in note 1(q), is presented in the consolidated financial
statements in respect of the Group’s geographical segments. This reflects the Group’s
management and internal reporting structure, and the operating basis on which individual
operations are reviewed by the Chief Operating Decision Maker (the Executive Leadership
Team). Performance is measured based on each segment’s underlying operating result
as included in the internal management reports that are reviewed by the Chief Operating
Decision Maker. This is used to measure performance as management believes that such
information is the most relevant in evaluating the results of certain segments relative to
other entities that operate within the industry.
Inter‑segment pricing is determined on an arm’s length basis. Segment results, assets
and liabilities include items directly attributable to a segment as well as those that can be
allocated on a reasonable basis.
Goodwill and intangible assets acquired on business combinations are included in the
region to which they relate.
Geographical operating segments
The Group is comprised of the following main geographical operating segments:
• UK & Ireland
• Europe: includes Norway, Sweden, Hungary, Holland, Italy, Germany and Spain
• North America
• Asia: includes Malaysia, China, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and India
Ireland, up until FY23, was reported and reviewed as part of Europe. However, for FY24 it
is now reported and reviewed as part of UK & Ireland segment. Hence, for the disclosure in
FY24 below, Ireland is reported as part of the UK segment and FY23 numbers are restated
to include Ireland within the UK.
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2023
178
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
3 Operating segmental analysis continued
Geographical operating segments continued
In presenting information on the basis of geographical operating segments, segment revenue and segment assets are based on the geographical location of our entities across the world and
are consolidated into the four distinct geographical regions, which the Executive Leadership Team (the ‘ELT’) uses to monitor and assess the Group. Interest is reported on a net basis rather
than gross as this is how it is presented to the Chief Operating Decision Maker. All material non‑current assets are located in the country the relevant Group entity is incorporated in.
North Common
UK & Ireland Europe America Asia amounts Total
March 2024 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000
Revenue
Revenue from external customers
73,394
86,403
28,989
44,885
—
233,671
Inter‑segment revenue
4,151
1,635
236
7,177
—
13,199
Total revenue
77,545
88,038
29,225
52,062
—
246,870
Underlying operating result
3,383
5,925
1,552
7,996
(6,912)
11,944
Net financing costs
(485)
(1,101)
(1,096)
400
(3,137)
(5,419)
Underlying segment result
2,898
4,824
456
8,396
(10,049)
6,525
Separately disclosed items (see note 2)
(2,336)
(2,552)
(530)
(207)
(1,689)
(7, 314)
Profit/(loss) before tax
562
2,272
(74)
8,189
(11,737)
(789)
Specific disclosure items
Depreciation and amortisation
(2,634)
(3,767)
(825)
(1,723)
(735)
(9,684)
Assets and liabilities
Non‑current asset additions
9,517
1,417
177
713
474
12,299
Non‑current assets
24,763
15,352
5,080
20,598
6,161
71,954
Segment assets
73,738
69,610
24,342
55,107
7,3 62
230,159
Segment liabilities
(21,024)
(17,990)
(3,911)
(11,861)
(51,195)
(105,981)
1
1. Non‑current assets exclude financial instruments and deferred tax
179
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
3 Operating segmental analysis continued
Geographical operating segments continued
UK & Ireland Europe North Common Total
£000 £000 America Asia amounts £000
March 2023 (restated) (restated) £000 £000 £000 (restated)
Revenue
Revenue from external customers
80,620
82,599
29,657
51,515
—
244,391
Inter‑segment revenue
6,034
3,075
271
8,893
—
18,273
Total revenue
86,654
85,674
29,928
60,408
—
262,664
Underlying operating result
5,507
2,917
1,256
9,473
(7,169)
11,984
Net financing costs
(376)
(634)
(593)
28
(1,109)
(2,684)
Underlying segment result
5,131
2,283
663
9,501
(8,278)
9,300
Separately disclosed items (see note 2)
4,002
4,073
401
88
3,428
(11,992)
Profit/(loss) before tax
1,129
(1,790)
262
9,413
(11,706)
(2,692)
Specific disclosure items
Depreciation and amortisation
(2,279)
(3,500)
(902)
(1,770)
(660)
(9,111)
Government support income
—
—
—
—
—
—
Assets and liabilities
Non‑current asset additions
1,231
5,702
1,082
2,222
1,412
11,649
Non‑current assets
17,8 80
19,838
5,920
22,725
7,900
74, 263
Segment assets
75,713
82,221
27,426
69,475
11,751
266,586
Segment liabilities
(23,657)
(17,659)
(3,612)
(13,608)
(72,161)
(130,697)
1
1. Non‑current assets exclude financial instruments and deferred tax
There were no material differences in North America between the external revenue based on location of the entities and the location of the customers. Of the UK & Ireland external
revenue, £7.3m (FY23: £12.0m) was sold into the European market. Of the Asian external revenue, £5.3m (FY23: £5.8m) was sold into the North American market and £4.5m (FY23: £7.6m)
was sold into the European market.
Within Europe, TR Italy has revenue of £28.2m (FY23: £27.3m) and non‑current assets of £10.0m (FY23: £11.7m).
Within Asia, TR Formac Singapore has revenue of £18.7m (FY23: £20.4m) and non‑current assets of £3.9m (FY23: £4.5m).
Revenue is derived solely from the manufacture and logistical supply of industrial fasteners and Category ‘C’ components.
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
180
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
4 Other operating income
2024 2023
£000 £000
Rental income received from freehold properties
16
16
Other income
704
494
720
510
Other income primarily includes tax credits for manufacturing investments in Industry 4.0
at VIC of £0.4m (FY23: £0.4m).
Included within other income is <£0.1m (FY23: <£0.1m) of R&D tax credits.
5 Expenses and auditor’s remuneration
Included in profit for the year are the following:
2024 2023
Note £000 £000
Depreciation and non‑acquired
amortisation
10, 13
3,836
3,673
Right‑of‑use assets depreciation
12
4,068
3,640
Amortisation of acquired intangibles
13
1,780
1,798
Short‑term/low‑value lease expense
12
230
210
Net foreign exchange loss
(646)
273
Project Atlas (including impairment of
‘Customer engagement’ software)
2,079
1,722
Loss/(profit) on disposal of fixed assets
(59)
149
Profit on disposal of assets classified as
held for sale
(2,014)
—
The employee benefit expense recognised in the year is disclosed in note 22.
Auditor’s remuneration:
2024 2023
£000 £000
Audit of these financial statements
394
378
Audit of financial statements of subsidiaries pursuant
to legislation
436
415
Other assurance services
68
59
Total
898
852
Other assurance services mainly relate to the interim review.
6 Staff numbers and costs
The average number of people employed by the Group (including Directors) during the
year, analysed by category, was as follows:
Group
Company
Number of employees
Number of employees
2024
2023
2024
2023
Office and management
112
123
32
32
Manufacturing
325
357
—
—
Sales
187
205
—
—
Distribution
608
667
—
—
1,232
1,352
32
32
The aggregate payroll costs of these people were as follows:
Group
Company
£000
£000
2024
2023
2024
2023
Wages and salaries
(including accrued
bonus)
38,794
42,534
3,421
3,280
Share‑based payments
(102)
32
1
(262)
Social security costs
4,485
4,269
508
453
Contributions to defined
contribution plans (see
note 22)
2,366
2,457
178
185
45,543
49,292
4,108
3,656
The payroll costs above exclude settlement for loss of office costs of £0.5m (FY23: £1.1m),
see note 7 and note 2.
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
7 Directors’ emoluments
2024 2023
£000 £000
Directors’ emoluments
1,104
1,010
Compensation for loss of office
353
1,006
Company contributions to money
purchase pension plans
13
13
Pension cash payments
11
14
1,481
2,043
The emoluments of individual Directors are shown in the remuneration report on pages
104 to 130.
The aggregate emoluments of the highest paid Director excluding pensions and excluding
compensation for loss of office was £0.29m (FY23: £0.37m), which included no vested LTIP
or deferred equity award (FY23: £nil), Company pension contributions of £13,000 (FY23:
£4,000) made to a money purchase scheme on his behalf and pension cash payments of
£nil (FY23: £0.01m) excluding compensation for loss of office. During the year, no SAYE
share options were exercised by the highest paid Director (FY23: nil), no deferred equity
shares were exercised by the highest paid Director (FY23: 192,233).
The annual IFRS 2 charges relating to Board LTIP shares was £0.1m (FY23 credit of
£0.34m). The highest paid Director’s element of this charges was <£0.1m (FY23: credit of
£0.3m).
Number of Directors
2024
2023
Retirement benefits are accruing to the following number
of Directors under money purchase schemes
1
1
The number of Directors who exercised share options was
—
—
See pages 104 to 130 of the remuneration report for more details.
Directors’ rights to subscribe for shares in the Company are also set out in the
remuneration report.
8 Financial income and expense
2024 2023
£000 £000
Financial income
Interest income on financial assets
269
158
Financial expenses
Interest payable on bank loans, IFRS 16 right‑of‑use
liabilities
5,688
2,842
FY24 includes £0.8m of interest on the right‑of‑use liabilities in compliance with IFRS 16,
see note 12 (FY23: £0.4m).
9 Taxation
2024 2023
Recognised in the income statement £000 £000
Current UK tax expense:
Current year
10
(25)
Adjustments for prior years
—
(66)
10
(91)
Current foreign tax expense:
Current year
2,964
3,082
Adjustments for prior years
189
(123)
3,153
2,959
Total current tax
3,163
2,868
Deferred tax expense (note 16):
Origination and reversal of temporary differences
539
(2,541)
Change in tax rates
—
(283)
Adjustments for prior years
(51)
130
Deferred tax income
488
(2,694)
Tax in income statement
3,651
174
182
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
9 Taxation continued
2024 2023
£000 £000
Deferred tax recognised directly in equity – IFRS 2 share‑based tax charge
(21)
29
Total tax recognised in equity
(21)
29
2024 ETR 2023 ETR
Reconciliation of effective tax rate (ETR) and tax expense £000 % £000 %
(Loss) for the period
(4,440)
(2,866)
Tax from continuing operations
3,651
174
Profit/(loss) before tax
(789)
(2,692)
Tax using the UK corporation tax rate of 25% (FY23: 19%)
(197)
25
(511)
19
Tax suffered on dividends
589
(74)
691
(25)
Non‑deductible expenses
960
(82)
182
(6)
Impairment loss
(37)
4
556
(20)
Non‑taxable receipts
(893)
113
(530)
19
IFRS 2 share option charge
172
(21)
285
(11)
Deferred tax assets not recognised
3,341
(373)
11
—
Different tax rates on overseas earnings
(422)
53
(167)
6
Adjustments in respect of prior years
138
(106)
(60)
2
Tax rate change
—
—
(283)
10
Total tax in income statement
3,651
(462)
174
(6)
183
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
10 Property, plant and equipment – Group
Land and Leasehold Plant and Fixtures and Motor
buildings improvements equipment fittings vehicles Total
£000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000
Cost
Balance at 1 April 2022
17,466
1,781
35,865
8,733
857
64,702
Additions
56
86
3,496
409
197
4,244
Assets classified as held for sale
(3,905)
—
—
—
—
(3,905)
Disposals
—
(46)
(133)
(62)
(20)
(261)
Transfers
—
—
(123)
—
—
(123)
Effect of movements in foreign exchange
531
78
1,200
125
30
1,964
Balance at 31 March 2023
14,148
1,899
40,305
9,205
1,064
66,621
Balance at 1 April 2023
14,148
1,899
40,305
9,205
1,064
66,621
Additions
53
2,815
829
348
54
4,099
Assets classified as held for sale
—
—
(45)
(65)
—
(110)
Disposals
—
(182)
(519)
(180)
(27)
(908)
Transfers/reallocations
—
—
(527)
(190)
—
(717)
Effect of movements in foreign exchange
(629)
(54)
(1,608)
(200)
(41)
(2,532)
Balance at 31 March 2024
13,572
4,478
38,435
8,918
1,050
66,453
Depreciation and impairment
Balance at 1 April 2022
6,416
1,010
29,757
6,530
692
44,405
Depreciation charge for the year
300
217
1,914
564
72
3,067
Assets classified as held for sale
(1,775)
—
—
—
—
(1,775)
Disposals
—
(46)
(116)
(57)
(20)
(239)
Impairment loss
—
—
132
290
—
422
Effect of movements in foreign exchange
208
50
950
95
21
1,324
Balance at 31 March 2023
5,149
1,231
32,637
7,42
2
765
47, 204
Balance at 1 April 2023
5,149
1,231
32,637
7,422
765
47,204
Depreciation charge for the year
214
363
1,896
484
85
3,042
Assets classified as held for sale
—
—
(45)
(65)
—
(110)
Disposals
—
(161)
(473)
(105)
(26)
(765)
Transfers/reallocations
—
22
(514)
(225)
—
(717)
Impairment loss
—
184
105
117
24
430
Effect of movements in foreign exchange
(196)
(28)
(1,330)
(117)
(30)
(1,701)
Balance at 31 March 2024
5,167
1,611
32,276
7, 511
818
47,3 83
Net book value
At 31 March 2022
11,050
771
6,108
2,203
165
20,297
At 31 March 2023
8,999
668
7,668
1,783
299
19,417
At 31 March 2024
8,405
2,867
6,159
1,407
232
19,070
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
184
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
10 Property, plant and equipment – Group continued
Included in the net book value of land and buildings is £8.4m (FY23: £8.9m) of freehold
land and buildings. Within this figure there is £1.7m (FY23: £1.7m) of buildings that are on
long leasehold land.
The Group had commitments for future capital expenditure not provided for in the
accounts of £nil (FY23: £0.1m).
The addition in plant and equipment in the year includes Project Atlas additions of
£nil (FY23: <£0.1m). A total of £0.4m (FY23: £1.0m) has been capitalised in relation to
Project Atlas in the year. The amount capitalised has been recognised in intangible assets,
see note 13 (FY23: £0.9m).
Assets held for sale in FY24 includes fully depreciated assets amounting to £0.1m relating
to TR Norge AS which subsequent to the year end has been disposed off, hence have been
disclosed as assets held for sale. Refer to note 29 for further details.
Impairment in FY24 of £0.5m relates to TR Hungary Kft (‘TR Hungary’) cash generating
unit. See note 13 for further details.
Impairment charges in FY23 in plant and equipment (£0.1m) and in fixtures and fittings
(£0.3m) were due to the closure of certain offices and warehouses within the UK directly
related to the restructuring programme initiative.
Assets classified as held for sale in FY23 is the freehold land and building of a net book
value of £2.1m. In March 2023, the Directors of Trifast plc decided to sell the freehold land
and building at Bellbrook Park, Uckfield, directly related to the restructuring programme
initiative. The sale was completed in October 2024 for a sale consideration of £4.1m and
resulted in a profit on sale of £2.0m which is presented as a separately disclosed item.
See note 2 for further details. A part of the freehold land and building was leased back.
See note 12 for further details.
11 Property, plant and equipment – Company
Land and Plant andFixtures and
buildings machineryfittings Total
£000 £000£000£000
Cost
Balance at 1 April 2022
3,905
—
579
4,484
Additions
—
13
—
13
Assets classified as held
for sale
(3,905)
—
—
(3,905)
Balance at 31 March 2023
—
13
579
592
Balance at 1 April 2023
—
13
579
592
Additions
—
—
3
3
Balance at 31 March 2024
—
13
582
595
Depreciation and
impairment
Balance at 1 April 2022
1,695
—
573
2,268
Depreciation charge for
the year
80
9
4
93
Assets classified as held
for sale
(1,775)
—
—
(1,775)
Balance at 31 March 2023
—
9
577
586
Balance at 1 April 2023
—
9
577
586
Depreciation charge for
the year
—
3
1
4
Balance at 31 March 2024
—
12
578
590
Net book value
At 1 April 2022
2,209
—
7
2,216
At 31 March 2023
—
4
2
6
At 31 March 2024
—
1
4
5
For assets classified as held for sale in FY23 see note 10 above.
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
185
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
12 IFRS 16 – Group
All leases are accounted for by recognising a right‑of‑use asset and a lease liability
except for:
• Leases of low‑value assets
• Leases with a duration of 12 months or less
Lease liabilities are measured at the present value of the contractual payments due to
the lessor over the lease term, with the discount rate determined by reference to the rate
inherent in the lease unless (as is typically the case) this is not readily determinable, in
which case the lessee’s incremental borrowing rate on commencement of the lease is
used. Variable lease payments are only included in the measurement of the lease liability
if they depend on an index or rate. In such cases, the initial measurement of the lease
liability assumes the variable element will remain unchanged throughout the lease term.
Other variable lease payments are expensed in the period to which they relate.
On initial recognition, the carrying value of the lease liability also includes:
• Amounts expected to be payable under any residual value guarantee
• The exercise price of any purchase option granted in favour of the Group if it is
reasonably certain to access that option
• Any penalties payable for terminating the lease, if the term of the lease has been
estimated on the basis of termination option being exercised
Right‑of‑use assets are initially measured at the amount of the lease liability, reduced
for any lease incentives received, and increased for:
• Lease payments made at or before commencement of the lease
• Initial direct costs incurred
• The amount of any provision recognised where the Group is contractually required to
dismantle, remove or restore the leased asset
Subsequent to initial measurement, lease liabilities increase as a result of interest
charged at a constant rate on the balance outstanding and are reduced for lease payments
made. Right‑of‑use assets are depreciated on a straight‑line basis over the remaining term
of the lease.
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
When the Group revises its estimate of the term of any lease (because, for example, it
re‑assesses the probability of a lessee extension or termination option being exercised),
it adjusts the carrying amount of the lease liability to reflect the payments to make over
the revised term, which are discounted using a revised discount rate. The carrying value
of lease liabilities is similarly revised when the variable element of future lease payments
dependent on a rate or index is revised, which are discounted at the same discount rate
that applied on lease commencement. In both cases an equivalent adjustment is made
to the carrying value of the right‑of‑use asset, with the revised carrying amount being
amortised over the remaining (revised) lease term.
When the Group renegotiates the contractual terms of a lease with the lessor, the
accounting depends on the nature of the modification:
• If the renegotiation results in one or more additional assets being leased for an amount
commensurate with the standalone price for the additional rights‑of‑use obtained, the
modification is accounted for as a separate lease in accordance with the above policy
• In all other cases where the renegotiation increases the scope of the lease (whether that
is an extension to the lease term, or one or more additional assets being leased), the
lease liability is remeasured using the discount rate applicable on the modification date,
with the right‑of‑use asset being adjusted by the same amount
• If the renegotiation results in a decrease in the scope of the lease, both the carrying
amount of the lease liability and right‑of‑use asset are reduced by the same proportion
to reflect the partial or full termination of the lease, with any difference recognised in
profit or loss. The lease liability is then further adjusted to ensure its carrying amount
reflects the amount of the renegotiated payments over the renegotiated term, with the
modified lease payments discounted at the rate applicable on the modification date.
The right‑of‑use asset is adjusted by the same amount
The Group sometimes negotiates break clauses in its property leases. On a case‑by‑case
basis, the Group will consider whether the absence of a break clause would expose the
Group to excessive risk.
Typically, factors considered in deciding to negotiate a break clause include:
• The length of the lease term
• The economic stability of the environment in which the property is located
• Whether the location represents a new area of operations for the Group
At 31 March 2024, the carrying amounts of lease liabilities are not reduced by the
amount of payments that would be avoided from exercising break clauses because it was
considered reasonably certain that the Group would not exercise any right to break these
leases.
186
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
12 IFRS 16 – Group continued
Nature of leasing activities (in the capacity as lessee)
The Group leases several properties in the jurisdictions from which it operates. In some
jurisdictions it is customary for lease contracts to provide for payments to increase each
year by inflation and in others to be reset periodically to market rental rates. For some of
the Group’s property leases the periodic rent is fixed over the lease term.
The Group also leases certain items of plant and equipment and vehicles which comprise
only fixed payments over the lease terms.
The percentages in the table below reflect the current proportions of total lease payments
that are either fixed or variable. The sensitivity reflects the impact on the carrying amount
of lease liabilities and right‑of‑use total assets if there was an uplift of 1% on the balance
sheet date to lease payments that are variable.
Lease Fixed Variable
contracts payments payments Sensitivity
(number) % % £000
Property leases with
periodic uplifts to market
rentals or inflation
6
—
5
10
Property leases
with fixed payments
33
87
—
—
Leases of equipment
and vehicles
98
7
—
—
At 31 March 2024
137
94
5
10
Lease Fixed Variable
contracts payments payments Sensitivity
(number) % % £000
Property leases with
periodic uplifts to market
rentals or inflation
8
—
16
25
Property leases
with fixed payments
39
75
—
—
Leases of equipment
and vehicles
127
9
—
—
At 31 March 2023
174
84
16
25
Right-of-use assets (Group)
Land and Motor
buildings vehicles Equipment Total
£000 £000 £000 £000
At 1 April 2022
11,623
1,069
65
12,757
Lease extensions
1,145
—
—
1,145
New leases
3,590
923
7
4,520
Rent review
359
—
—
359
Depreciation
(2,968)
(645)
(27)
(3,640)
Impairment
(911)
(93)
—
(1,004)
Foreign exchange
movements
247
11
—
258
At 1 April 2023
13,085
1,265
45
14,395
Lease extensions
54
—
—
54
New leases
6,458
585
61
7,1 04
Rent review
328
—
—
328
Depreciation
(3,418)
(615)
(35)
(4,0 68)
Disposals
(52)
—
—
(52)
Reclassified to assets held
for sale
(44)
(22)
—
(66)
Impairment
(872)
(28)
—
(900)
Foreign exchange
movements
(312)
(32)
(1)
(345)
At 31 March 2024
15,227
1,153
70
16,450
Right‑off‑use assets and liabilities of £0.1m each relates to assets and liabilities related to
TR Norge AS which has been subsequent to the year end disposed and hence, has been
disclosed as held for sale. Also, see note 29 for further details.
Impairment in FY24 of £1.0m relates to TR Hungary Kft (‘TR Hungary’) cash generating
unit. See note 13 for further details. This is offset by impairment reversal of £0.1m in
motor vehicles right‑of‑use assets related to impairment booked in FY23 as it is no longer
required as the vehicles are still in use.
Impairment charges of £0.9m in FY23 in land and buildings and £0.1m in motor vehicles
right‑of‑use assets were due to the planned closure of certain offices and early exit of
motor vehicle leases prior to the lease exit date related to the restructuring programme
initiative. Refer to note 2 for further details.
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
187
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Land and Motor
buildings vehicles Equipment Total
£000 £000 £000 £000
At 1 April 2022
12,565
1,082
64
13,711
New leases
1,145
—
—
1,145
Rent review
3,218
923
7
4,148
Acquisitions
359
—
—
359
Lease payments
(3,507)
(687)
(28)
(4,222)
Interest
384
45
1
430
Foreign exchange
movements
237
4
1
242
At 1 April 2023
14,401
1,367
45
15,813
Lease extensions
54
—
—
54
New leases
5,961
585
60
6,606
Rent review
328
—
—
328
Lease payments
(3,450)
(671)
(37)
(4,158)
Interest
722
71
3
796
Disposals
(550)
—
—
(550)
Reclassified to liabilities
held for sale
(54)
(22)
—
(76)
Foreign exchange
movements
(354)
(35)
(1)
(390)
At 31 March 2024
17,058
1,295
70
18,423
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
2024 2023
£000 £000
Short‑term lease expense
230
173
Low‑value lease expense
53
37
Aggregate undiscounted future commitments
for short‑term and low‑value leases
39
123
Under Between 1 Between 2 Over
1 year and 2 years and 5 years 5 years Total
£000 £000 £000 £000 £000
At 31 March 2024
Right‑of‑use liabilities
3,392
2,490
5,411
7,130
18,423
Under Between 1 Between 2 Over
1 year and 2 years and 5 years 5 years Total
£000 £000 £000 £000 £000
At 31 March 2023
Right‑of‑use liabilities
3,498
3,027
5,669
3,619
15,813
Trifast plc sold a freehold land building in October 2023. Refer to note 10 for further details
on the net proceeds and profit from the sale. Part of the freehold land and building was
leased back for two years (extendable for another one year). The lease has a rent‑free
period of two years and thereafter annual rent of £0.1m for the third year. This resulted in a
right‑of‑use asset and liability of <£0.1m.
12 IFRS 16 – Group continued
Right-of-use liabilities (Group)
188
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Financial statements
Additional information
13 Intangible assets – Group
Assets under
course of
construction Software Goodwill Other Total
£000 £000 £000 £000 £000
Cost
Balance at 1 April 2022
7,172
—
46,617
22,895
76,684
Additions
1,381
—
—
—
1,381
Disposals
(154)
—
—
—
(154)
Transfers
(6,560)
6,560
—
123
123
Effect of movements in foreign exchange
—
—
1,779
735
2,514
Balance at 31 March 2023
1,839
6,560
48,396
23,753
80,548
Balance at 1 April 2023
1,839
6,560
48,396
23,753
80,548
Additions
425
—
—
49
474
Transfers
(663)
663
—
—
—
Effect of movements in foreign exchange
—
—
(942)
(475)
(1,417)
Balance at 31 March 2024
1,601
7, 223
47,454
23,327
79,605
Amortisation and impairment
Balance at 1 April 2022
—
—
21,859
11,844
33,703
Amortisation for the year
—
545
—
1,859
2,404
Impairment during the year
—
—
2,926
—
2,926
Effect of movements in foreign exchange
—
—
692
372
1,064
Balance at 31 March 2023
—
545
25,477
14,075
40,097
Balance at 1 April 2023
—
545
25,477
14,075
40,097
Amortisation for the year
—
706
—
1,868
2,574
Impairment during the year
935
541
—
—
1,476
Effect of movements in foreign exchange
—
—
(478)
(339)
(817)
Balance at 31 March 2024
935
1,792
24,999
15,604
43,330
Net book value
At 31 March 2022
7,172
—
24,758
11,051
42,981
At 31 March 2023
1,839
6,015
22,919
9,678
40,451
At 31 March 2024
666
5,431
22,455
7,723
36,275
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
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Additional information
13 Intangible assets – Group continued
The addition in assets under the course of construction in the year includes Project Atlas additions of £0.2m (FY23: £0.9m). An amount of £0.9m held as assets under course
of construction has been impaired in the current year in relation to the ‘customer engagement’ software under development. See note 2 for further details. Included within other
intangibles are customer relationship intangible assets of £6.5m (FY23: £7.9m), know‑how of <0.1m (FY23: £0.3m), marketing‑related intangibles of £0.8m (FY23: £1.0m) and other
of £0.2m (FY23: £0.4m).
Impairment in FY24 of £0.5m of software relates to TR Hungary Kft (‘TR Hungary’) cash generating unit. See impairment section for further details.
The amortisation charge is recognised in administrative expenses in the income statement. Of the £2.6m charge in the year, £1.8m relates to amortisation on acquired intangibles, £0.7m
relates to software capitalised for the Project Atlas sites and £0.1m amortisation related to other intangible assets. Other intangible assets are made up of:
• Customer relationships, technology know‑how and technology patents acquired as part of the acquisition of TR Italy SPA. The average remaining amortisation period on these assets
is 5.1 years and NBV is £2.1m
• Customer relationships acquired as part of the acquisition of TR Kuhlmann Gmbh. The average remaining amortisation period on these assets is 1.5 years and NBV is £0.6m
• Customer relationships and marketing‑related intangibles acquired as part of the acquisition of Precision Technology Supplies Ltd. The average remaining amortisation period on these
assets is 8.4 years and NBV is £2.8m
• Customer relationships, marketing‑related and contract‑based intangibles acquired as part of the acquisition of TR Falcon Fastenings Inc. The average remaining amortisation period
on these assets is 8.1 years and NBV is £2.2m
The following cash generating units have carrying amounts of goodwill:
2024 2023
£000 £000
Special Fasteners Engineering Co. Ltd (Taiwan)
11,114
11,511
TR Fastenings AB (Sweden)
1,063
1,063
Lancaster Fastener Company Ltd (UK)
1,245
1,245
Serco Ryan Ltd (within TR Fastenings Ltd) (UK)
4,083
4,083
TR Italy SPA (VIC) (Italy)
—
—
TR Kuhlmann GmbH (Germany)
1,500
1,540
TR Falcon Fastenings Inc
1,302
1,330
Precision Technology Supplies Ltd (UK)
2,043
2,043
Other
105
104
22,455
22,919
The changes in goodwill for SFE, Kuhlmann and Falcon relate to foreign exchange gains or losses, as these investments are held in Singaporean Dollars, Euros and US Dollars respectively.
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
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Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
13 Intangible assets – Group continued
Annual impairment testing
The Group tests goodwill annually for impairment. The recoverable amount of cash generating units is determined from value in use calculations.
Value in use was determined by discounting the future cash flows generated from the continuing use of the unit. In this method, the free cash flows after funding internal needs of the
subject company are forecast for a finite period of four years based on actual operating results, budgets and economic market research. Cash flow projections of four years use the
Board‑approved annual budget for the first year and subsequent years based on management’s best estimates based on past performance, budgets and its expectation of market
developments. Beyond the finite period, a terminal (residual) value is estimated using an assumed stable cash flow figure.
The values assigned to the key assumptions represent management’s assessment of future trends in the fastenings market and are based on both external and internal sources of
historical data. Further information on sources of data used can be found in each description of the key assumptions below.
The recoverable amounts of Special Fasteners Engineering Co. Ltd (Taiwan), TR Italy SPA (Italy) and Serco Ryan Ltd (within TR Fastenings Ltd) (UK) have been calculated with reference
to the key assumptions shown below:
SFE
TR Italy
Serco
2024
2023
2024
2023
2024
2023
Long‑term revenue growth rate
2.0%
2.0%
2.0%
2.0%
2.0%
2.0%
Discount rate – post‑tax
8.4%
8.3%
10.6%
10.9%
10.8%
10.4%
Discount rate – pre‑tax
10.5%
10.4%
14.7%
15.1%
14.4%
13.9%
Terminal EBIT margin
22.1%
22.0%
11.5%
11.8%
10.0%
10.3%
Key assumptions are not disclosed for the remaining CGUs as the goodwill is not significant in comparison to the recoverable amount of the respective CGUs. The Group evaluates
annually all CGUs for any indicators of impairment or impairment reversal. The Group considers the relationship between its market capitalisation and the net assets value, among other
factors, when reviewing the indicators of impairment. As at 31 March 2024, the market capitalisation of the Group was lower than the net assets of the Group of £124.2m, indicating a
potential impairment. We have performed value in use calculations for all CGUs with goodwill balances and for those CGUs where indicators of impairment are identified. The Group
identified indicators of impairment in its TR Hungary CGU due to decline in the revenue resulting from the Russia/Ukraine war. As a result, the Group performed value in use calculations
on the TR Hungary CGU. The key assumptions used were a post‑tax discount rate of 14.50%, terminal EBIT margin of 5.5% and long‑term revenue growth rate of 3.5%. In addition, the
Group identified indicators of impairment in its TR VIC SPA (TR Italy) CGU due to results being behind the budget and as a result, the Group performed value in use calculations on the TR
Italy CGU. The key assumptions applied are disclosed in the table above.
Long-term revenue growth rate
Long‑term growth rates into perpetuity have been determined as the lower of:
• The nominal GDP rates for the country of operation
• The long‑term compound annual growth rate in EBITDA estimated by management
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Financial statements
Additional information
13 Intangible assets – Group continued
Post-tax risk adjusted discount rate
The discount rate applied to the cash flows of each of the Group’s operations is based
on the Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC) (using post‑tax numbers). The cost
of equity element uses the risk‑free rate for ten‑year bonds issued by the government in
the respective market, adjusted for a risk premium to reflect both the increased risk of
investing in equities and the systemic risk of the specific Group operating company.
In making this adjustment, inputs required are the equity market risk premium (that is, the
increased return required over and above a risk‑free rate by an investor who is investing
in the market as a whole) and the risk adjustment, beta, applied to reflect the risk of the
specific Group operating company relative to the market as a whole.
In determining the risk adjusted discount rate, management has applied an adjustment for
the systemic risk to each of the Group’s operations determined using an average of the
betas of comparable listed fastener distribution and manufacturing companies and, where
available and appropriate, across a specific territory. Management has used an equity
market risk premium that takes into consideration studies by independent economists, the
average equity market risk premium over the past five years and the market risk premiums
typically used by investment banks in evaluating acquisition proposals.
To calculate the pre‑tax discount rate we have taken the post‑tax discount rate and divided
this by one minus the applicable tax rate. We consider this an appropriate approximation
of the pre‑tax rate as there are no significant timing differences between the tax cash
flows and tax charges. The table discloses the discount rate on a post and pre‑tax basis.
This takes into account certain components such as the various discount rates reflecting
different risk premiums and tax rates in the respective regions. Overall, the Board is
confident that the discount rate adequately reflects the circumstances in each location
and is in accordance with IAS 36.
Terminal EBIT margin
The margins used in the value in use calculations are based on historic performance
adjusted for any known or expected changes to occur to existing operations based on
management plans. Key adjustments relate to known efficiency gains from increased
volumes achieved in the business as well as the transactional foreign exchange impact
based on forecast rates.
Impairment
Based on the value in use calculations and impairment analysis performed an impairment
loss of £1.9m in relation to the TR Hungary CGU has been recognised in the Consolidated
Income statement within Administrative expenses and classified as a ‘separately disclosed
items’. See note 2 for further details. The impairment loss has been allocated to the following
assets:
• Right‑of‑use assets: £1.0m
• Intangible assets: £0.5m
• Property, plant and equipment: £0.4m
Management believes the outlook of TR Hungary remains positive. Besides TR Hungary
CGU, no other impairment noted in FY24. In FY23 an impairment of £2.9m in TR Italy’s
goodwill arose due to the impact of higher than usual discount rates and changes in
estimates of future cash flows.
Sensitivity to changes in assumptions and changes of future cash flows
Management believes that no reasonable possible change in any key assumptions would
cause the recoverable amount of cash generating units containing goodwill to fall below
its carrying value.
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
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Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
14 Intangible assets – Company
Assets under
course of
construction SoftwareOther Total
£000£000£000£000
Cost
Balance at 1 April 2022
7,027
—
62
7,089
Additions
1,381
—
—
1,381
Disposals
(9)
—
—
(9)
Transfers
(6,560)
6,560
—
—
Balance at 31 March 2023
1,839
6,560
62
8,461
Balance at 1 April 2023
1,839
6,560
62
8,461
Additions
425
—
—
425
Transfers
(663)
663
—
—
Balance at 31 March 2024
1,601
7, 223
62
8,886
Amortisation and impairment
Balance at 1 April 2022
—
—
62
62
Amortisation for the year
—
545
—
545
Balance at 31 March 2023
—
545
62
607
Balance at 1 April 2023
—
545
62
607
Amortisation for the year
—
706
—
706
Impairment
935
541
—
1,476
Balance at 31 March 2024
935
1,792
62
2,789
Net book value
At 1 April 2022
7,027
—
—
7,027
At 31 March 2023
1,839
6,015
—
7,854
At 31 March 2024
666
5,431
—
6,097
The addition in assets under the course of construction in the year includes Project Atlas additions of £0.2m (FY23: £0.9m).
193
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
15 Equity investments – Company
Investments in subsidiaries
Total
£000
Cost
Balance at 1 April 2022 and 1 April 2023
43,443
Disposals
—
Investments written off
(112)
Balance at 31 March 2024
43,331
Provision
Balance at 1 April 2022, 31 March 2023, 1 April 2023 and 31 March 2024
1,145
Net book value
Balance at 1 April 2023
42,298
Balance at 31 March 2024
42,186
Details of principal subsidiary undertakings, country of registration and principal activity are included in note 31.
All subsidiaries have a reporting date concurrent with Trifast plc, except TR Formac (Shanghai) Pte Ltd which has a reporting date of 31 December due to local regulatory requirements.
Following the acquisition of Serco Ryan Ltd in September 2005, the trade and assets of Serco Ryan were transferred to fellow subsidiary TR Fastenings Ltd at book value. This resulted in
an apparent overvaluation of the Serco Ryan Ltd investment as held in the Company’s books, although there was no overall loss to the Group. Schedule 1 of SI 2008/410 of the Companies
Act 2006 requires that, where such overvaluation is expected to be permanent, the investment should be written down accordingly. The Directors consider that as the substance of the
transaction was merely to reorganise the Group’s operations, such a treatment would fail to give a true and fair view. Therefore, the diminution in value of the investment in Serco Ryan
Ltd has instead been re‑allocated to the Company’s investment in Trifast Overseas Holdings Ltd, being the immediate Parent Company of TR Fastenings Limited and directly owned by the
Company.
During FY24 the following dormant company investments were written off; Fastener Techniques Ltd £0.08m, Rollthread International Limited £<0.1m, Fastech (Scotland) Ltd £<0.1m,
Charles Stringer’s Sons & Co. Limited £<0.1m, Micro Screws & Tools Ltd £<0.1m.
194
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Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
195
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
16 Deferred tax assets and liabilities – Group
Recognised deferred tax assets and liabilities
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are attributable to the following:
Assets
Liabilities
Net
2024 2023 2024 2023 2024 2023
£000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000
Property, plant and equipment
—
—
1,794
1,840
1,794
1,840
IFRS 16 Leases
(188)
(215)
—
—
(188)
(215)
Intangible assets
(171)
(153)
1,306
1,398
1,135
1,245
Provision on inventories
(865)
(918)
—
—
(865)
(918)
Provisions/accruals
(2,518)
(1,847)
1,137
974
(1,381)
(873)
IFRS 2 Share‑based Payments
(197)
(348)
—
—
(197)
(348)
Tax losses
(2,446)
(3,357)
—
—
(2,446)
(3,357)
Tax (assets)/liabilities
(6,385)
(6,838)
4,237
4,212
(2,148)
(2,626)
Reclassified to assets held for sale
(3)
—
—
—
(3)
—
Tax set‑off
2,132
2,549
(2,132)
(2,549)
—
—
Net tax (assets)/liabilities
(4,256)
(4, 289)
2,105
1,663
(2,151)
(2,626)
A potential £4.7m (FY23: £3.0m) deferred tax asset relating to the Company’s trapped management losses was not recognised on the grounds that recovery of these losses is highly unlikely.
A potential £2.4m (FY23: £2.3m) deferred tax liability relating to the temporary differences amounting to £34.1m (FY23: £33.8m) associated with undistributed profits in subsidiaries has
not been recognised. This is on the grounds that we are able to control the timing of these reversals and it is not considered probable that these amounts will reverse in the foreseeable
future.
Movement in deferred tax during the year
1 April
Recognised
Recognised
31 March
2023
in income
in equity
1
2024
£000
£000
£000
£000
Property, plant and equipment
1,840
24
(70)
1,794
IFRS 16 Leases
(215)
22
5
(188)
Intangible assets
1,245
(93)
(17)
1,135
Provision on inventories
(918)
34
19
(865)
Provisions/accruals
(873)
(522)
14
(1,381)
IFRS 2 Share‑based Payments
(348)
172
(21)
(197)
Tax losses
(3,357)
854
57
(2,446)
Reclassified to assets held for sale
—
(3)
—
(3)
(2,626)
488
(13)
(2,151)
1. Amounts recognised in equity include the deferred tax on IFRS 2 Share‑based Payments of (£21,000) (FY23: £29,000) and the equity element of foreign exchange differences taken to reserves
196
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
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Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
16 Deferred tax assets and liabilities – Group continued
Movement in deferred tax during the prior year
1 April
Recognised
Recognised
Recognised
31 March
2022
in income
on acquisition
in equity
1
2023
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
Property, plant and equipment
1,819
(24)
—
45
1,840
IFRS 16 Leases
(211)
22
—
(26)
(215)
Intangible assets
1,487
(274)
—
32
1,245
Provision on inventories
(979)
86
—
(25)
(918)
Provisions/accruals
(71)
(786)
—
(16)
(873)
IFRS 2 Share‑based Payments
(748)
371
—
29
(348)
Tax losses
(1,223)
(2,089)
—
(45)
(3,357)
74
(2,694)
—
(6)
(2,626)
1. Amounts recognised in equity include the deferred tax on IFRS 2 Share‑based Payments of £(21,000) (FY23: £29,000) and the equity element of foreign exchange differences taken to reserves
17 Deferred tax assets and liabilities – Company
Recognised deferred tax assets and liabilities
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are attributable to the following:
Assets
Liabilities
Net
202420232024202320242023
£000£000£000£000£000£000
Property, plant and equipment
—
—
51
141
51
141
Provisions/accruals
(42)
(16)
—
—
(42)
(16)
IFRS 2 Share‑based Payments
(72)
(136)
—
—
(72)
(136)
Tax losses
—
(987)
—
—
—
(987)
Tax (assets)/liabilities
(114)
(1,139)
51
141
(63)
(998)
Tax set‑off
51
141
(51)
(141)
—
—
Net tax assets
(63)
(998)
—
—
(63)
(998)
A potential £4.7m (FY23: £3.0m) deferred tax asset relating to the Company’s trapped management losses was not recognised on the grounds that recovery of these losses is highly
unlikely.
17 Deferred tax assets and liabilities – Company continued
Movement in deferred tax during the year
1 AprilRecognised Recognised
31 March
2023in income
in equity
2024
£000£000
£000
£000
Property, plant and equipment
141
(90)
—
51
Provisions/accruals
(16)
(26)
—
(42)
IFRS 2 Share‑based Payments
(136)
72
(8)
(72)
Tax losses
(987)
987
—
—
(998)
943
(8)
(63)
Movement in deferred tax during the prior year
1 AprilRecognised Recognised
31 March
2022in income
in equity
2023
£000£000
£000
£000
Property, plant and equipment
153
(12)
—
141
Provisions/accruals
(3)
(13)
—
(16)
IFRS 2 Share‑based Payments
(426)
264
26
(136)
Tax losses
(448)
(539)
—
(987)
(724)
(300)
26
(998)
18 Inventories – Group
2024 2023
£000 £000
Raw materials and consumables
4,449
5,646
Work in progress
2,374
2,301
Finished goods and goods for resale
66,580
83,001
73,403
90,948
In FY24, inventories of £149.7m (FY23: £177.3m) were recognised as an expense during the year and included in cost of sales. Inventories have been written down by an additional £2.4m
(net) in the year (FY23: £2.1m) in line with the Group’s stock provisioning policy. Such write‑downs were recognised as an expense during FY24. No significant specific stock provisions
have been reversed in the year.
Inventories in the UK amounting to £25.7m (FY23: £29.2m) are pledged as security for the Group borrowings.
Within the £73.4m (FY23: £90.9m) carrying amount of inventories above, £1.6m (FY23: £1.9m) is carried at net realisable value.
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
197
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
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Additional information
19 Trade and other receivables
Current
Group
Company
2023
2024 £000 2024 2023
£000 (restated) £000 £000
Trade receivables
53,690
56,012
—
—
Non‑trade receivables and prepayments
5,349
7,14
6
160
63
Amounts owed by subsidiary undertakings
—
—
3,463
3,691
59,039
63,158
3,623
3,754
1
1. During the year, management identified that deferred income related to certain industry incentive schemes in the previous year had been incorrectly netted off against the amounts due from tax authorities within other
receivables. The Group statement of financial position at 31 March 2023 has been restated to increase other receivables by £1.3m, increase other payables less than one year by £0.2m and increase other payables greater than
one year by £1.1m. In respect of the cash flow statement, the change in trade and other receivables decreased by £1.3m and trade and other payables increased by £1.3m respectively, with no resulting impact on the net cash
generated from operating activities. This adjustment does not have any impact on the Group net assets or the consolidated income statement. The impact on 31 March 2022 is not material
All contracts with customers do not contain a significant financing component. Expected credit losses for the Group were calculated by first grouping trade receivables by entity and
looking at historic credit loss rates over five years. This was then overlaid with considerations for overdue debt, forward‑looking information and any customer‑specific risks. See note 26
for further details.
Expected credit losses for the Company were assessed at year end and there had not been a significant increase in credit risk.
Non‑trade receivables and prepayments primarily consist of prepaid expenses, amount due from tax authorities in relation to certain industry inventive schemes and advances to
suppliers. The management have assessed the credit risk associated with these receivables and concluded that there is no significant expected credit loss as of the reporting date.
The conclusion is based on the consideration that historical data indicates that there have been no defaults or significantly delays in payments from these counterparties. In addition,
no adverse changes in economic conditions or business operations of the counter parties are anticipated that would impact their ability to settle the receivables.
Non-current
Group
Company
2023 2023
2024 £000 2024 £000
£000 (restated) £000 (restated)
Amounts owed by subsidiary undertakings
—
—
61,208
76,848
The decrease in amounts owed by subsidiary undertakings is primarily due to subsidiaries being able to repay the loans to the Company, driven by better working capital management
across the Group. Interest rates are charged on an arm’s length basis and are linked to movements in the SONIA, EURIBOR and FED RFR rate and ‘leverage margin’ charged on our
external borrowings. During the period, rates ranged from 6.15% to 9.32%. The loans are structured as Revolving Credit Facilities and can be repaid by the borrower at any time during the
term of the facility, but ultimately 60 months after commencement (March 2027).
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
198
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
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Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
20 Other interest-bearing loans and borrowings
This note provides information about the Group and Company’s existing interest‑bearing loans and borrowings as at 31 March 2024.
For more information about the security provided by the Group and Company over loans or the Group and Company’s exposure to interest rate, foreign currency and liquidity risk, and
covenants, see note 26.
Current
Non‑current
2024 2023 2024 2023
Initial loan value
Rate
Maturity
£000 £000 £000 £000
Group (excluding Company)
Right‑of‑use liabilities
Various
2024–2050
3,381
3,477
14,932
12,298
Company
Revolving Credit Facility SONIA/SOFR/
EURIBOR
+ 2.10% to 3.60%
2026
—
—
22,680
69,825
Export Development Guarantee Facility SONIA/SOFR/
EURIBOR
+ 2.10%
2026
—
—
20,582
—
Prepaid arrangement fees
—
—
(1,414)
—
SONIA/SOFR/
EURIBOR
Loans from subsidiaries
+ 2.10% to 3.60%
2025
6,447
—
—
—
Right‑of‑use liabilities
Various
2024–2026
11
21
99
17
Total Group (excluding loans from subsidiaries)
3,392
3,498
56,879
82,140
Total Company (including loans from subsidiaries)
6,458
21
41,947
69,842
1
2
1
3
1. Also, see note 26b(i) for further details about the facilities. Subsequent to the year end, covenant amendments have been signed. See note 29 for further details
2. Subject to leverage ratchet mechanism from <1.0x to >2.5x, current interest margin of 2.30% (based on 1.29x leverage)
3. Prepaid arrangement fees includes unamortised balance as at 31 March 2024 of the upfront fees costs paid during the year on signing two new banking arrangements with a combined facility limit of £120m. See note 26 for
further details. The upfront fees is amortised over the period of the respective loan facilities
199
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
21 Trade and other payables
Current
Group
Company
2023
2024 £000 2024 2023
£000 (restated) £000 £000
Trade payables
21,181
18,281
—
—
Amounts payable to subsidiary undertakings
—
—
—
267
Other payables and accrued expenses
12,971
13,790
1,501
1,627
Other taxes and social security
2,066
3,436
159
501
36,218
35,507
1,660
2,395
The amounts payable to subsidiary undertakings of £0.3m were written back during the year. Other payables and accrued expenses includes £1.0m (FY23: £1.2m and FY22: £1.1m)
of contract liabilities. The balance at 31 March 2024 relates to invoices raised in the year which will be recognised as revenue in the next financial year as well as deferred income
(see note 19). Other payables and accrued expenses also include stock accruals and accruals for expenses as at 31 March 2024.
Non-current
Group
Company
2023
2024 £000 2024 2023
£000 (restated) £000 £000
Other payables
892
1,077
—
—
Other payables pertains to deferred income related to certain industry incentive schemes. FY23 balance has been restated. See note 19 for further details.
22 Employee benefits
Pension plans
Defined contribution plans
The Group operates a number of defined contribution pension plans, which include stakeholder pension plans whose assets are held separately from those of the Group, in independently
administered funds.
The total expense relating to these plans in the current year was £2.4m (FY23: £2.5m) and represents contributions payable by the Group to the funds.
At the end of the financial year, there were outstanding pension contributions of <£0.1m (FY23: £0.1m), which are included in creditors.
Share-based payments
The Group share options (including SAYE plans) provide for an exercise price equal to the average quoted market price of the Group shares on the date of grant. In the case of SAYE,
this price is discounted in line with HMRC limits. The vesting period is generally three or five years. The options expire if they remain unexercised after the exercise period has lapsed.
Furthermore, options are forfeited if the employee leaves the Group before the options vest, unless for retirement, redundancy or health reasons. The options are equity settled.
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
200
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
22 Employee benefits continued
Pension plans continued
Share-based payments continued
The number and weighted average exercise prices of share options are as follows:
2024
2023
Weighted Weighted
average average
exercise exercise
Options
price
Options
price
Outstanding at beginning of year
2,678,240
0.85
2,622,863
0.93
Granted during the year
1,476,256
0.69
1,477,409
0.77
Forfeited/lapsed during the year
(1,970,656)
0.83
(1,400,980)
0.93
Exercised during the year
—
—
—
—
Vested early during the year
(9,740)
0.77
(21,052)
0.86
Outstanding at the end of the year
2,174,100
0.76
2,678,240
0.85
Exercisable at the end of the year
—
—
7,682
1.78
The options outstanding at 31 March 2024 had a weighted average remaining contractual life of three years (FY23: 2.7 years) and exercise prices ranging from £0.69 to £1.78 (FY23: £0.77
to £1.93). Shares vested early relate to the FY24 SAYE of an employee who was classed as a good leaver. The weighted average share price at the date of exercise for share options that
vested early in 2024 was £0.94 (FY23: £1.02).
The fair value of services received in return for share options granted is measured by reference to the fair value of share options granted. The estimate of the fair value of the services
received is measured based on the Black–Scholes model.
The contractual life of the option is used as an input into this model.
Board deferred equity bonus shares
The Board deferred equity bonus shares have been discussed in more detail in the remuneration report (pages 104 to 130). The number of deferred equity bonus shares are as follows:
Deferred
equity bonus
shares
Outstanding at beginning of year
347,239
Shares exercised
(347,239)
Outstanding at the end of the year
—
Exercisable at the end of the year
—
The above includes 310,536 shares for Mark Belton relating to his previous employment as CEO of Trifast plc which he exercised after year end following his departure. The remainder is
36,703 shares for C Foo relating to his former employment as TR Asia MD. He did not sit on the Board.
201
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
22 Employee benefits continued
Board deferred equity bonus shares continued
These nil‑cost options are subject to a three‑year service period and the fair value has been calculated using the discounted dividend model (DDM). This is based on expected dividends
over the three‑year term. They are equity settled shares.
The weighted average share price at the date of exercise for share options exercised in FY24 was £0.68 (FY23: £0.61).
There were no outstanding options as at 31 March 2024.
Senior Manager (SM), Operational Executive Board (OEB) and Executive Leadership Team (ELT) LTIP shares
The number of SM LTIP shares is as follows:
SM/OEB/ELT
LTIP shares
Outstanding at beginning of year
5,627, 572
Granted during the year
4,143,933
Lapsed during the year
(2,684,641)
Vested early during the year
—
Exercised during the year
(148,614)
Outstanding at end of year
6,938,250
The shares granted between 30 December 2016 and 14 November 2018, which vested on 30 December 2019, were subject to a base award and a multiplier award. The base award
required a service period of three years from date of grant and was also subject to STGT performance conditions being met during the performance period. The multiplier award was
determined by a non‑market performance condition which was achieved at 31 March 2019, meaning the maximum multiplier was applied to the shares that vested. The method of
settlement for these shares is a mixture of equity and cash settled. The fair value has been calculated using the DDM. This was at grant date for the equity settled awards. The fair value
for the cash settled awards were remeasured to the date the awards vested. The opening balance at the beginning of the year includes 12,500 LTIP share award that was previously
omitted. The weighted average share price at the date of exercise for share options exercised in FY24 was £0.73 (FY22: £0.92).
The awards granted in FY21 to FY23 are subject to a non‑market performance condition of underlying EPS growth for a three‑year period starting on 1 April 2020/21/22. The awards
granted in FY24 are subject to a non‑market based performance condition of underlying operating margin (UOM) (weighted 25%) and a market‑based performance condition based on
relative TSR (weighted 75%) for a three‑year period starting on 1 April 2023 (see below for details of the performance conditions). The method of settlement for these shares is a mixture
of equity and cash settled. The fair value for the UOM element has been calculated using the DDM whilst the fair value for the TSR element has been calculated using the Monte‑Carlo
simulation model. This was at grant date for the equity settled awards.
The weighted average share price at the date of exercise in FY23 was £0.55.
The FY22 non‑market performance condition requires underlying EPS to grow by 16% per annum for a 25% payout, 25% per annum for a 72% payout (strong), with straight‑line vesting in
between. Maximum payout requires 37% growth per annum, with straight‑line vesting in between maximum and strong.
The FY23 non‑market performance condition requires underlying EPS to grow by 9% per annum for a 25% payout, 29% per annum for a 100% payout, with straight‑line vesting in between.
The FY24 non‑market performance condition requires UOM in FY26 to be 8.2% for 25% vesting, 9.1% for 50% vesting, 10% for 75% vesting and 11% or above for maximum vesting, with
straight‑line vesting in between these points. The FY24 market‑based performance condition requires Trifast’s TSR to be equal to the FTSE All Share Index’s TSR for 25% vesting and 8%
p.a. or above outperformance of the FTSE All Share Index’s TSR for 100% vesting, with straight‑line vesting in between these points.
202
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
22 Employee benefits continued
Board LTIP shares
The Board LTIP shares are part of the remuneration policy approved at the 2020 AGM and have been discussed in more detail in the remuneration report (pages 104 to 146).
The maximum number of Board LTIP shares are as follows:
Board
LTIP shares
Outstanding at beginning of year
319,224
Granted during the year
1,323,648
Lapsed during the year
(661,114)
Outstanding at end of year
981,758
42,425 shares are for D Hayes‑Powell relating to his former appointment as a Board Director. He left the Company on 21 February 2024. 124,780 shares are for C Foster relating to her
former appointment as a Board Director. She left the Company on 30 August 2022.
Nil‑cost options awarded up to and including FY23 are subject to performance (EPS growth and TSR performance) and service conditions over a three‑year period. Nil‑cost options
awarded during FY24 are subject to a non‑market based performance condition based on underlying operating margin (UOM) (weighted 25%) and a market‑based performance condition
based on relative TSR (weighted 75%) for a three‑year period starting on 1 April 2023. The fair values for the EPS element and the UOM element have been calculated using the DDM
whilst the fair value for the TSR element has been calculated using the Monte Carlo simulation. They are equity settled shares. In line with IFRS 2, the amount recognised as an expense
has been adjusted to reflect the number of awards for which the service and non‑market performance conditions are expected to be met.
The options outstanding at 31 March 2024 had a weighted average remaining contractual life of 6.8 years (FY23: 5.9 years).
SAYE share options Share
Number price on Expected
outstanding on date of Exercise Expected Vesting Expected Risk‑free annual Fair
Date of Type of Valuation 31 March grant price volatility period life rate dividend value
grant instrument model 2024 (£) (£) % (years) (years) % % (£)
13/08/2019
SAYE 5 Year
Black‑Scholes
13,986
2.06
1.78
28.46
5.00
5.00
0.43
2.66
0.24
15/09/2020
SAYE 3 Year
Black‑Scholes
73,891
0.98
0.86
36.62
3.00
3.00
(0.10)
1.22
0.27
15/09/2020
SAYE 5 Year
Black‑Scholes
177, 885
0.98
0.86
33.12
5.00
5.00
(0.06)
1.22
0.29
10/08/2021
SAYE 3 Year
Black‑Scholes
88,580
1.44
1.05
40.39
3.00
3.00
0.21
1.11
0.54
10/08/2021
SAYE 5 Year
Black‑Scholes
29,926
1.44
1.05
34.99
5.00
5.00
0.34
1.11
0.55
15/09/2022
SAYE 3 Year
Black‑Scholes
374,413
0.84
0.77
43.25
3.13
3.13
3.06
2.50
0.26
15/09/2022
SAYE 3 Year
Black‑Scholes
153,967
0.84
0.77
38.10
3.13
5.13
3.04
2.50
0.28
15/09/2023
SAYE 3 Year
Black‑Scholes
937,678
0.81
0.69
47. 80
3.13
3.13
4.47
2.79
0.29
15/09/2023
SAYE 5 Year
Black‑Scholes
323,774
0.81
0.69
44.20
5.13
5.13
4.27
2.79
0.32
Total SAYE share options
2,174,100
203
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
22 Employee benefits continued
Share options Share
Number price on Expected
outstanding on date of Exercise Expected Vesting Expected Risk‑free annual Fair
Date of Type of Valuation 31 March grant price volatility period life rate dividend value
grant instrument model 2024 (£) (£) % (years) (years) % % (£)
30/12/2016
SM LTIP – equity
DDM
228,348
2.05
n/a
n/a
3.00
3.00
n/a
1.46
1.96
03/08/2021
Board LTIP shares – EPS
DDM
87, 346
1.45
n/a
n/a
3.00
3.00
0.11
1.11
1.40
03/08/2021
Board LTIP shares – TSR
Monte Carlo
37,434
1.45
n/a
41.2
3.00
3.00
0.11
1.11
0.68
03/08/2021
OEB LTIP
DDM
485,030
1.45
n/a
n/a
3.00
3.00
n/a
1.11
1.40
03/08/2021
SM LTIP – equity
DDM
656,666
1.45
n/a
n/a
3.00
3.00
n/a
1.11
1.40
03/08/2021
SM LTIP – cash
DDM
61,000
1.45
n/a
n/a
3.00
2.34
n/a
2.00
1.10
06/09/2022
OEB LTIP – equity
DDM
702,082
0.94
n/a
n/a
3.00
3.00
n/a
2.24
0.88
06/09/2022
SM LTIP – equity
DDM
751,667
0.94
n/a
n/a
3.00
2.44
n/a
3.03
0.88
06/09/2022
SM LTIP – cash
DDM
98,500
0.94
n/a
n/a
3.00
3.00
n/a
2.24
0.88
18/11/2022
SM LTIP – cash
DDM
12,500
0.57
n/a
n/a
3.00
3.00
n/a
3.68
0.51
28/11/2023
Board LTIP – relative TSR
Monte Carlo
642,734
0.76
n/a
48.3
3.00
3.00
4.20
2.77
0.44
28/11/2023
Board LTIP – UOM
DDM
214,244
0.76
n/a
n/a
3.00
3.00
4.20
2.77
0.70
28/11/2023
ELT LTIP – TSR equity
Monte Carlo
543,205
0.76
n/a
48.3
3.00
3.00
4.20
2.77
0.44
28/11/2023
ELT LTIP – UOM – equity
DDM
181,068
0.76
n/a
n/a
3.00
3.00
4.20
2.77
0.70
28/11/2023
SM LTIP – TSR – equity
Monte Carlo
2,097,152
0.76
n/a
48.3
3.00
3.00
4.20
2.77
0.44
28/11/2023
SM LTIP – UOM – equity
DDM
699,051
0.76
n/a
n/a
3.00
3.00
n/a
2.77
0.70
28/11/2023
SM LTIP – TSR – cash
Monte Carlo
316,486
0.76
n/a
48.3
3.00
3.00
4.20
2.77
0.44
28/11/2023
SM LTIP – UOM – cash
DDM
105,495
0.74
n/a
n/a
3.00
2.66
n/a
2.82
0.69
Total share options (inc SAYE)
10,094,108
1
1
1
1
1
1
1. The share price used to determine the fair value at FY24 was 74.6p (FY23: 77.8p)
Expected volatility was determined by calculating the historical volatility of the Group’s share price over a period commensurate with the expected life or the remaining TSR performance
period of the award as at the date of grant. The expected life used in the model has been adjusted, based on management’s best estimate, for the effects of non‑transferability, exercise
restrictions and behavioural considerations.
The exercise price used is in line with the appropriate award documentation. In the case of SAYE awards, this price is discounted in line with HMRC limits. For Board, Operational Executive
Board, Executive Leadership Team and Senior Manager LTIP awards granted in the form of nil‑cost options, the exercise price is nil.
204
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
22 Employee benefits continued
SAYE share options continued
The risk‑free rate has been set as the continuously compounded yield as at the grant date on zero coupon government bonds of a term commensurate with the expected life assumption.
The dividend yield has been set equal to the historic dividend yield as at the date of grant.
The Group recognised total income of (£0.1m) (FY23: <£0.1m) in relation to share‑based payment transactions in the year. Of this, a charge of £800 (FY23: £8,000) relates to cash settled
awards to which a liability is recognised on the statement of financial position in trade and other payables. The remaining amount relates to equity settled awards.
As at 31 March 2024, outstanding options to subscribe for ordinary shares of 5p were as follows:
Number of Contractual life
Grant date/employees entitled instruments of options
13/08/ 19 SAYE
13,986
Apr
202
3, Apr 2025
15/09/20 SAYE
251,776
Apr 2024,
Apr 2026
10/08/21 SAYE
118,506
Apr
2025
, Apr 2027
15/09/22 SAYE
528,380
Apr
2026
, Apr 2028
15/09/23 SAYE
1,261,452
Apr
2
027, Apr 2029
Total outstanding options
2,174,100
Senior Manager and EC LTIP shares
6,938,250
Aug/Dec 2024, Sep/Nov 2025, Jul 2028,
Aug/Nov 2029, Sep/Nov 2030,
Nov 2031
Board LTIP shares
981,758
Aug
202
9, Nov 2031
Total
10,094,108
23 Provisions
Restructuring Dilapidations Total
Group £000 £000 £000
Balance at 31 March 2023
2,809
1,443
4,252
Utilised during the year
(2,145)
—
(2,145)
Released during the year
(416)
—
(416)
Increase during the year
1,661
628
2,289
Balance at 31 March 2024
1,909
2,071
3,980
Dilapidations relate to a portfolio of properties and external advisers were used to provide estimates of potential costs and likelihood of sub‑letting. The future cash flows were then
discounted using risk‑free rates over the length of the leases. These will be utilised on vacation. Restructuring primarily relates to provision for redundancies and other related costs in
relation to the restructuring programme. See note 2 for further details.
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
205
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
23 Provisions continued
All amounts represent a best estimate of the expected cash outflows, although actual amounts paid could be lower or higher.
2024 2023
Group £000 £000
Non‑current (greater than one year)
1,548
1,443
Current (less than one year)
2,432
2,809
Balance at 31 March
3,980
4,252
1
1. Provisions greater than one year relate to dilapidations for leases with end dates between 2025 and 2032
In respect of the Company there are £0.6m provisions (FY23: £0.4m) related to restructuring. During the year, £0.3m was utilised and £0.5m was provided.
24 Capital and reserves
Capital and reserves – Group and Company
See statements of changes in equity on pages 161 to 164.
Share capital
Number of ordinary shares
Group
2024
2023
In issue at 1 April
136,104,935
136,083,883
Shares issued
9,740
21,052
In issue at 31 March – fully paid
136,114,675
136,104,935
The total number of shares issued during the year was 9,740 for a consideration of <£0.1m (FY23: 21,052 shares for <£0.1m). In FY24 and FY23, all shares were issued for cash.
2024 2023
Group £000 £000
Allotted, called up and fully paid
Ordinary shares of 5p each
6,806
6,805
The holders of ordinary shares (excluding own shares held) are entitled to receive dividends as declared from time to time and are entitled to one vote per share at meetings of the
Company.
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
206
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
24 Capital and reserves continued
Reserves
Share premium represents the amount subscribed for share capital in excess of nominal
value.
The merger reserve has arisen under Section 612 of the Companies Act 2006 and is a
non‑distributable reserve. In June 2020 the Company successfully completed Placings of
shares which increased the merger reserve by £14.8m.
During the year 522,435 shares (FY23: 298,372) were transferred out of the own shares
held reserve at a weighted average cost of £1.58, total cost £0.8m (FY23: weighted
average cost of £1.58, total cost £0.5m) to fulfil all of the exercise of awards in the year,
excluding SAYE. The number of ordinary shares held at 31 March 2024 was 1,373,663
(FY23: 1,896,098). These shares are in the own shares held reserve and are to help meet
future employee share plan obligations.
The translation reserve comprises all foreign exchange differences arising from the
translation of foreign operations, as well as from the translation of liabilities that hedge the
Group’s net investment in foreign subsidiaries.
Dividends
During the year the following dividends were recognised and paid by the Group:
2024 2023
£000 £000
Final paid 2023 – 1. 5 0p (FY22: 1 .40p)
per qualifying ordinary share
2,020
1,875
Interim paid 2023 – 0.75p (FY22: 0.70p)
per qualifying ordinary share
1,006
937
Total
3,026
2,812
After the balance sheet date, and subject to shareholder approval at the Annual General
Meeting which is to be held on 10 September 2024, a final dividend of £1. 2 0p per qualifying
ordinary share (FY23: 1.50p) was proposed by the Directors. An interim dividend of 0.60p
per qualifying ordinary share (FY23: 0.75p) was paid in April 2024. See the financial review
for further details.
2024 2023
£000 £000
Final proposed 2024 – 1.20p (FY23: 1.50p)
per qualifying ordinary share
1,617
2,013
Interim paid 2024 – 0.60p (FY23: 0.75p)
per qualifying ordinary share
808
1,007
Total
2,425
3,020
1
1. Amount calculated using the number of ordinary shares in issue less the number of shares in the own shares
held reserve at the end of each period
25 Earnings per share
Basic loss per share
The calculation of basic loss per share at 31 March 2024 was based on the loss attributable
to ordinary shareholders of £(4.4)m (FY23: loss of £(2.9)m) and a weighted average
number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year ended 31 March 2024 (net of own
shares held) of 134,959,632 (FY23: 134,893,523), calculated as follows:
Weighted average number of ordinary shares
2024
2023
Issued ordinary shares at 1 April
136,104,935
136,083,883
Net effect of shares issued (held)
(1,145,303)
(1,190,360)
Weighted average number of ordinary shares at 31 March
134,959,632
134,893,523
Diluted earnings per share
The calculation of diluted earnings per share at 31 March 2024 was based on loss
attributable to ordinary shareholders of £(4.4)m (FY23: loss of £(2.9)m) and a weighted
average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year ended 31 March 2024 (net
of own shares held) of 134,959,632 (FY23: 134,893,523), calculated as follows:
Weighted average number of ordinary shares (diluted)
2024
2023
Weighted average number of ordinary shares at 31 March
134,959,632
134,893,523
Effect of share options on issue
—
—
Weighted average number of
ordinary shares (diluted) at 31 March
134,959,632
134,893,523
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
207
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
25 Earnings per share continued
Weighted average number of ordinary shares (diluted) continued
The average market value of the Company’s shares for the purposes of calculating the dilutive effect of share options was based on quoted market prices for the period that the options
and deferred equity awards were outstanding. There is no potential dilutive effect of share options as the share options have not yet vested and conditions have not been met at the
balance sheet. In assessing these we have assumed the balance sheet date is the end of the contingency.
Underlying earnings per share
2024
EPS
2023
EPS
Earnings Earnings
EPS (total)
£000
Basic
Diluted
£000
Basic
Diluted
Loss after tax for the financial year
(4,440)
(3.29)p
(3.29)p
(2,866)
(2.12)p
(2.12)p
Separately disclosed items:
Acquired intangible amortisation
1,780
1.32p
1.32p
1,798
1.33p
1.33p
Project Atlas
2,079
1.54p
1.54p
1,722
1.28p
1.28p
Aborted acquisitions costs/acquisition costs
—
—
—
261
0.19p
0.19p
Restructuring costs
1,491
1.11p
1.11p
4,235
3.14p
3.14p
Impairment of Non‑current assets
1,964
1.46p
1.46p
2,926
2.17p
2.17p
Settlement for loss of office
—
—
—
1,050
0.78p
0.78p
Tax charge on adjusted items above
(692)
(0.52)p
(0.52)p
(2,211)
(1.64)p
(1.64)p
Tax adjusted items
—
—
—
—
—
—
Underlying profit after tax
2,182
1.62p
1.62p
6,915
5.13p
5.13p
The ‘underlying diluted’ earnings per share is detailed in the above tables. In the Directors’ opinion, this reflects the underlying trading performance of the Group and assists in the
comparison with the results of earlier years (see note 2).
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
208
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Financial statements
Additional information
26 Financial instruments
(a) Fair values of financial instruments
There is no significant difference between the fair values and the carrying values shown in
the balance sheet.
(b) Financial instruments risks
Exposure to credit, liquidity, interest rate and currency risks arise in the normal course
of the Group’s business, and the Group continues to monitor and reduce any exposure
accordingly. Information has been disclosed relating to the individual Company only where
a material risk exists.
(i) Credit risk
Credit risk is the risk of financial loss to the Group if a customer or counterparty to a
financial instrument fails to meet its contractual obligations. The maximum exposure with
respect to credit risk is represented by the carrying amount on the balance sheet.
Cash and cash equivalents includes cash equivalents amounting to £0.9m (FY23: £1.6m).
These are term deposits which are presented as cash equivalents if they have maturity of
three months or less and subject to insignificant risk of changes in value.
Cash and cash equivalents are with approved counterparty banks and other financial
institutions which have a rating for their long‑term unsecured and non‑credit‑enhanced
debt obligations of A– or higher by Standard & Poor’s Rating Services or Fitch Ratings
Ltd, or A3 or higher by Moody’s Investors Service Limited, or a comparable rating from an
internationally recognised credit rating agency. Exceptions to this eligibility are approved
by the CFO. Counterparty banks are assessed prior to opening bank accounts and on an
ongoing basis to ensure exposure to credit risk is at an acceptable level.
Management considers credit risks arise principally from the Group’s receivables from
customers. A credit policy is in place and the exposure to credit risk is monitored on an
ongoing basis.
Credit evaluations are performed on all customers requiring credit over a predetermined
amount. All overdue debts are monitored regularly and customers are put on credit
hold if payments are not received on time as appropriate. The carrying amount of trade
receivables represents the maximum credit exposure for the Group. These procedures
were further enhanced as a result of macro‑level uncertainties. The maximum exposure to
credit risk at the balance sheet date was £53.7m (FY23: £56.0m), being the total carrying
amount of trade receivables net of an allowance. Management does not consider there to
be any significant unimpaired credit risk in the year‑end balance sheet (FY23: £nil), and to
date has not seen a significant increase in risk as a result of macro‑level uncertainties.
There have been no significant changes to estimation techniques or significant
assumptions made during the reporting period.
At the balance sheet date there were no significant geographic or sector‑specific
concentrations of credit risk, although we continue to monitor the light and heavy vehicle
sectors closely due to the ongoing challenges in these specific end markets.
Trade receivables were assessed for impairment at the balance sheet date using an
expected credit loss model which measures the required allowance at an amount equal
to expected lifetime credit losses applying both a qualitative and quantitative analysis of
the asset base. The Group monitors significant customers’ credit limits and recognises
a specific impairment of trade receivables in circumstances where a customer’s credit
standing has deteriorated to the extent that a credit default is considered probable. The
Group also recognises an expected credit loss impairment of trade receivables, whereby
default losses are expected for each ageing category as follows: Overdue 90–120 days
10%; Overdue 120–360 days 15%; and Overdue over 360 days 100%. These expected
default losses are monitored and are adjusted to reflect the current and forward‑looking
information on macroeconomic factors affecting the ability of the customers to settle the
receivables.
The ageing analysis of gross trade receivables balances as at 31 March 2024 is as follows:
2024
2023
0–90 days
53,422
55,138
90–120 days
759
1,084
120–360 days
415
789
360 days+
202
211
Total
54,798
57,222
The combined specific and expected credit loss impairment of trade receivables was £1.1
(FY23: £1.2m). The analysis of combined impairment based on the underlying receivables is
as follows:
2024
2023
0–90 days
1.4%
1.3%
90–120 days
19.3%
10.4%
120–360 days
16.1%
27.9 %
360 days+
79.1%
73.9%
Total
2.0%
2.1%
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
209
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
26 Financial instruments continued
(b) Financial instruments risks continued
(i) Credit risk continued
Impairment losses
The movement in the allowance for impairment in respect of trade receivables and
contract assets during the year was as follows:
2024 2023
£000 £000
Balance at 1 April
(1,210)
(1,305)
Impairment reversal movement
102
95
Balance at 31 March
(1,108)
(1,210)
There are no significant losses/bad debts provided for specific customers. The allowance
account for trade receivables is used to record impairment losses where a credit risk has
been identified, unless the Group is satisfied that no recovery of the amount owing is
possible; at that point the amounts considered irrecoverable are written off against the
trade receivables directly.
(ii) Liquidity and interest risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group will not be able to meet its financial obligations as
they fall due.
The Group holds debt and hence its main interest and liquidity risks are associated with the
maturity of its facilities against cash inflows from around the Group. The Group’s objective
is to maintain a balance of continuity of funding and flexibility through the use of banking
facilities as applicable.
On 1 June 2023, the Group’s £80m Revolving Credit Facility was redeemed via two new
banking agreements with a combined facility limit of £120m, in the form of:
1. Revolving Credit Facility (£70m)
The facility has a term of three years with two possible one‑year extensions (i.e.
potential term of five years). The facility can be utilised in either USD, EUR or GBP and
there are no pre‑determined currency limits. Interest has increased in line with market
conditions and will now be charged at the aggregate rate of SONIA/SOFR/EURIBOR
plus margin within a range of 2.10–3.60% (redeemed £80m Revolving Credit Facility:
aggregate rate of SONIA/SOFR/EURIBOR plus 1.10–2.20%).
2. UK Export Finance (UKEF) Export Development Guarantee (EDG) Facility (£50m
Sterling equivalent)
The facility has a term of five years with a three‑year availability period and is split
between a USD facility ($31m), a EUR facility (€17m) and a GBP facility (£10m) with
UK Export Finance providing an 80% guarantee. Interest is charged at SONIA/SOFR/
six‑month EURIBOR with a margin of 2.32% on the USD loan and 2.10% on both the EUR
and GBP loans.
Due to the quantitative and qualitative differences in the two facilities, the previous facility
has been treated as being extinguished. The cash flows includes the repayment of the
previous facility and the drawdown of the new facilities. On the date the previous facility
was extinguished, there was no unamortised deferred finance costs.
Covenant headroom – at 31 March 2024
The new Group facilities are subject to the same quarterly covenant testing as follows:
Interest cover: Underlying EBITDA
1
to net interest
1
to exceed a ratio of four*.
Adjusted leverage: Total net debt
1
to underlying EBITDA
1
not to exceed a ratio of three.
* Temporary waiver received for the quarter ended 31 December 2023 and 31 March 2024
for reducing the Interest cover covenant to 3.5. The actual Interest cover was 3.6x and
Adjusted leverage was 1.3x as at 31 March 2024. Subsequent to the year end, interest cover
amendment was signed. See note 29 for further details.
1. As defined in the facility agreement
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
26 Financial instruments continued
(b) Financial instruments risks continued
(ii) Liquidity and interest risk continued
Liquidity tables
The following are the contractual maturities of the existing financial liabilities, excluding trade and other payables as the contractual cash flows are equal to carrying amount and cash
flows are within one year:
2024
Carrying Contractual Less than 1 to 2 2 to 5 Over 5
amount cash flows 1 year years years years
£000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000
Non-derivative financial liabilities
Group and Company
Revolving Credit Facility (see note 20)
22,175
22,680
—
—
22,680
—
Export Development Guarantee Facility (see note 20)
19,673
20,582
—
—
20,582
—
Right‑of‑use liabilities (see note 12)
18,423
25,147
4,749
3,953
7,087
9,358
Total Group and Company
60,271
68,409
4,749
3,953
50,349
9,358
1
1. In addition to the above, there are interest charges of £4.8m in FY24 relating to the Revolving Credit and Export Development Guarantee Facilities. Future interest charges are based on a leverage ratchet mechanism, see
note 20
2023
Carrying Contractual Less than 1 to 2 2 to 5 Over 5
amount cash flows 1 year years years years
£000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000
Non-derivative financial liabilities
Group and Company
Revolving Credit Facility (see note 20)
69,825
69,825
—
69,825
—
—
Right‑of‑use liabilities (see note 12)
15,813
18,136
3,994
3,428
6,390
4,324
Total Group and Company
85,638
87, 961
3,994
73,253
6,390
4,324
1
1. In addition to the above, there are interest charges of £2.2m in FY23 relating to the Revolving Credit Facility. Future interest charges are based on a leverage ratchet mechanism, see note 20
211
Trifast plc | Recover, Rebuild, Resilience
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
26 Financial instruments continued
(b) Financial instruments risks continued
(ii) Liquidity and interest risk continued
Liquidity headroom
Trading forecasts show that the facilities in place at 31 March 2024 provided sufficient liquidity headroom. The Group continues to maintain positive relationships with a number of banks
and the Directors believe that appropriate facilities will continue to be made available to the Group as and when they are required.
Facilities that were available at 31 March 2024 (excluding bank overdrafts and lease liabilities):
2024
2023
Available Utilised Unutilised Available Utilised Unutilised
facilities facilities facilities facilities facilities facilities
£000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000
Group and Company
Revolving Credit Facility
70,000
22,680
47,320
80,000
69,825
10,175
Export Development Guarantee Facility
50,000
20,582
29,418
—
—
—
Total Group and Company
120,000
43,262
76,738
80,000
69,825
10,175
In addition, there is an accordion facility of £40.0m as part of the RCF agreement, which provides potential additional finance under current agreed terms subject to credit approval.
Interest risk
The Group monitors closely all loans outstanding which currently incur interest at floating rates. When appropriate, the Group makes use of derivative financial instruments, including
interest rate swaps and caps. The Group will continue to review this position going forward.
In respect of income‑earning financial assets and interest‑bearing financial liabilities, the following table indicates the split between fixed and variable interest rates at the balance sheet
date.
Further details of the rates applicable on interest‑bearing loans and borrowings are given in note 20.
All assets and liabilities in place at year end bear interest at a floating rate and therefore may change within one year.
Interest rate table
Group
Company
2024 2023 2024 2023
£000 £000 £000 £000
Variable rate instruments
Financial assets
20,884
31,798
910
640
Financial liabilities
1
(41,848)
(69,825)
(41,848)
(69,825)
Adjusted net debt
(20,964)
(38,027)
(40,938)
(69,185)
1. Net of prepaid arrangement fee of £1.4m (FY23: £nil)
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
212
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Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
26 Financial instruments continued
(b) Financial instruments risks continued
(ii) Liquidity and interest risk continued
Sensitivity analysis
A change of one percentage point in interest rates (using the net amount in the table above) at the balance sheet date would change equity and profit and loss by £0.2m (FY23: £0.4m).
This calculation has been applied to risk exposures existing at the balance sheet date.
This analysis assumes that all other variables, in particular foreign currency rates, remain consistent and considers the effect of financial instruments with variable interest rates.
The analysis is performed on the same basis for the comparative period.
(iii) Foreign currency risk
The Group is exposed to foreign currency risk on sales and purchases that are denominated in a currency other than local functional currency. The Group faces additional currency risks
arising from monetary financial instruments held in non‑functional local currencies.
Operational foreign exchange exposure
Where possible, the Group tries to invoice in the local currency at the respective entity. If this is not possible, then to mitigate any exposure, the Group tries to buy from suppliers and sell
to customers in the same currency.
Where possible, the Group tries to hold the majority of its cash and cash equivalent balances in the local currency at the respective entity.
Monetary assets/liabilities
The Group continues to monitor exchange rates and buy or sell currencies in order to minimise open exposure to foreign exchange risk. The Group does not speculate on exchange rates.
No foreign exchange derivative financial instruments are held at the balance sheet date.
The Euro denominated RCF and EDG utilised facilities (‘combined facilities’) of €29.1m (£24.9m) is net investment hedged against the net asset value of TR VIC, TR Kuhlmann and TR
Holland. The USD denominated combined facilities of $0.5m (£0.4m) is net investment hedged against the net asset value of Falcon and TR Fastening Inc. Therefore, all foreign exchange
movements that are being hedged are taken to the translation reserve. The remaining Euro and US Dollar denominated combined facilities of €14.5m and $7.0m respectively (£12.4m and
£5.5m respectively) is naturally hedged by equivalent intercompany debtor assets in the Company.
The Group’s exposure to foreign currency risk is as follows (based on the carrying amount for cash and cash equivalents held in non‑functional currencies):
Singapore
Sterling Euro US Dollar Dollar Japanese Yen Total
31 March 2024 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000
Cash and cash equivalents exposure
774
1,383
5,056
48
65
7,326
Singapore
Sterling Euro US Dollar Dollar Japanese Yen Total
31 March 2023 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000
Cash and cash equivalents exposure
665
2,751
8,222
5
44
11,687
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
26 Financial instruments continued
(b) Financial instruments risks continued
(iii) Foreign currency risk continued
Monetary assets/liabilities continued
Group
A 1% change in significant foreign currency balances against local functional currency at
31 March 2024 would have changed equity and profit and loss by the amount shown below.
This calculation assumes that the change occurred at the balance sheet date and had been
applied to risk exposures existing at that date.
This analysis assumes that all other variables, in particular other exchange rates and
interest rates, remain constant. The analysis is performed on the same basis for the
comparative period.
Equity and profit or loss
2024 2023
Foreign currency
Local currency
£000 £000
Euro
Sterling
(4)
(6)
US Dollar
Singapore Dollar
(12)
(37)
US Dollar
Taiwanese Dollar
(35)
(40)
Euro
Taiwanese Dollar
(2)
(16)
(c) Capital management and allocation
It is the Board’s desire to maximise long‑term returns. As such, the generation and
disciplined deployment of free cash is a core aspect of Trifast’s strategy. The following
framework and priorities have been established and these are refreshed as part of our
annual budgeting process.
Capital allocation priorities
The Board’s key capital allocation priorities are as follows:
• Continue to maintain adequate working capital as required to support organic growth in
the short term
• Strategic and targeted investments to drive sustainable long‑term organic growth
• Realise acquisitions in line with our acquisition strategy
• A progressive dividend policy, maintaining a medium‑term target dividend cover range
at the top end of between 3.0x to 4.0x
Special dividends and share buy‑backs, having been considered, do not currently form part
of our capital allocation framework.
Cash conversion
The Group has been, and continues to expect to be, consistently cash generative. In the
longer term the Board continues to target normalised cash conversion of 70% to 80%, as
we invest in the balance sheet to support our ongoing organic growth.
2021
2022
2023
2024
Net debt to
underlying EBITDA
(0.9)x
1.3x
2.2x
1.3x
Calculated in line with the banking agreement.
Maximum adjusted leverage covenant – 3.0x.
The Board has determined that in the current macroeconomic and shareholder
environment, it is appropriate to adopt a prudent but flexible capital structure and will seek
to operate in certain circumstances, e.g. non‑organic investment, with leverage of up to
2.0x adjusted net debt (before IFRS 16): underlying EBITDA.
The Group has various borrowings and available facilities (see section (b) (ii) Liquidity
and interest risk) that contain certain external capital requirements (‘covenants’) that
are considered normal for these types of arrangements. As discussed above, we remain
comfortably within all such covenants.
The capital structure of the Group is provided below:
2024 2023
£000 £000
Borrowings (note 20)
60,271
85,638
Equity
124,178
135,889
Capital employed
184,449
221,527
27 Cross guarantee contracts
Company
The Company has a guarantee with HSBC, involving the UK trading subsidiaries, for a
Group Class Guarantee facility of £2.0m (FY23: £2.0m).
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
214
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
28 Related parties
Group and Company
Compensation of key management personnel of the Group
The below table shows compensation for key management personnel which comprises the Board and the ELT.
Full details of compensation of the Board are given in the Directors’ remuneration report on pages 104 to 130.
2024 2023
£000 £000
Short‑term employee benefits
2,365
1,732
Compensation for loss of office
461
1,006
Company contributions to money purchase plans
132
96
Share‑based payments
30
—
2,988
2,834
Transactions with Directors and Directors’ close family relatives
A relative of the previous Chair is employed by TR Fastenings Ltd. The relative is paid on an arm’s length basis and aggregate payroll costs totalling £12,000 (FY23: £26,000) whilst the
Chair was appointed by the Group is disclosed as a related party transaction.
There were no other related party transactions with Directors, or Directors’ close family members, in the year (FY23: £nil).
215
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Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
28 Related parties continued
Related party transactions
Details of principal subsidiary undertakings, country of registration and principal activities are included in note 31.
Company related party transactions with subsidiaries – income/expenditure FY24
Income Loan Expenditure Loan
Rent management interest Total management interest Total
income fees receivable income fees payable expense
£000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000
TR Fastenings Ltd
235
1,244
216
1,695
580
106
686
Lancaster Fastener Co. Ltd
—
25
—
25
—
—
—
Precision Technology Supplies Ltd
—
67
—
67
—
22
22
TR Southern Fasteners Ltd
—
70
8
78
—
—
—
TR Norge AS
—
27
—
27
—
—
—
TR Fastenings AB
—
106
91
197
—
—
—
TR Miller BV
—
198
18
216
—
—
—
TR Hungary Kft
—
168
46
215
—
—
—
TR VIC SPA
—
180
247
427
—
—
—
TR Kuhlmann GmbH
—
93
104
197
—
—
—
TR Fastenings España
—
96
338
435
—
—
—
TR Fastenings Inc
—
116
668
784
—
—
—
TR Falcon Fastening Solutions
—
95
5
100
—
—
—
TR Asia Investments Pte Ltd
—
411
—
411
—
—
—
Total
235
2,896
1,741
4,874
580
128
708
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
216
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
28 Related parties continued
Related party transactions continued
Company related party transactions with subsidiaries – income/expenditure FY23
Income Loan Expenditure
Rent management interest Total management Total
income fees receivable income fees expense
£000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000
TR Fastenings Ltd
290
376
217
883
1,649
1,649
Lancaster Fastener Co. Ltd
—
24
—
24
—
—
Precision Technology Supplies Ltd
—
65
—
65
—
—
TR Southern Fasteners Ltd
—
22
8
30
—
—
TR Norge AS
—
27
—
27
—
—
TR Fastenings AB
—
99
42
141
—
—
TR Miller BV
—
89
56
145
—
—
TR Hungary Kft
—
104
32
136
—
—
TR VIC SPA
—
183
203
386
—
—
TR Kuhlmann GmbH
—
87
—
87
—
—
TR Fastenings España
—
65
141
206
—
—
TR Fastenings Inc
—
111
563
674
—
—
TR Falcon Fastening Solutions
—
51
6
57
—
—
TR Asia Investments Pte Ltd
—
207
—
207
—
—
Total
290
1,510
1,268
3,068
1,649
1,649
217
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
28 Related parties continued
Related party transactions continued
Company related party balances
2024
2023
Balances Balances Balances Balances
receivables payables receivables payables
£000 £000 £000 £000
TR Fastenings Ltd
2,277
5,447
6,007
—
Lancaster Fastener Company Ltd
15
—
35
—
Precision Technology Supplies
45
1,000
39
—
TR Southern Fasteners Ltd
54
—
293
—
TR Norge AS
7
—
7
—
TR Fastenings AB
537
—
1,834
—
TR Miller Holding BV
147
—
1,287
—
TR Hungary Kft
457
—
1,247
—
TR VIC SPA
888
—
6,353
—
TR Kuhlmann GmbH
6,053
—
22
—
TR Fastenings España
4,447
—
4,374
—
TR Fastenings Inc
5,546
—
13,303
—
TR Falcon Fastening Solutions
19
—
250
—
TR Asia Investments Holdings Pte Ltd
581
—
806
—
TR Formac Pte Ltd
30
—
173
—
Special Fasteners Engineering Co Ltd
14
—
21
—
Power Steel & Electro‑Plating Works SDN Bhd
16
—
28
—
TR Formac Co Ltd
3
—
1
—
TR Fastenings Poland Sp Zoo
—
—
48
—
Non‑trading dormant subsidiaries/other
15
—
—
267
Trifast Overseas Holdings Ltd
43,491
—
44,400
—
Trifast Holdings BV
29
—
11
—
64,671
6,447
80,539
267
All related party transactions are on an arm’s length basis.
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
218
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance
Financial statements
Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
29 Subsequent events
There are no material non‑adjusting events subsequent to the balance sheet date except
that the Group has disposed off TR Norge AS, amended the RCF and EDG facilities
agreement to reflect the interest cover covenant, KBC Bank NV became a lender as part of
the RCF agreement and one of the customers filed for an administration.
Trifast completed the sale of TR Norge AS on 3 April 2024 to Otto Olsen AS for a sales
consideration of £0.7m (NOK 9.8m). It was concluded that the TR Norge AS product
offering is better aligned to Otto Olsen’s strategy and will provide a solid and stable base
for the TR Norge AS team and enable customers to continue to be supported by a locally
aligned business. Otto Olsen will become a master distributor to the Group, and we look
forward to building a successful relationship with them for many years to come.
The sale is disclosed as a non‑adjusting event as per IAS 10 and it did not affect the
financial figures reported in this Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024 except
the assets and liabilities as at 31 March 2024 related to TR Norge AS reclassified and
disclosed as Assets and liabilities held for sale. The net assets as at 31 March 2024 of TR
Norge AS are £0.3m and generated a profit before tax of £1,200. The results for TR Norge
AS has not been disclosed as discontinued operations for FY24 as it is neither a separate
major line of business or geographical areas of operations and hence, does not meet
the criteria as per IFRS 5 for it to be classified as discontinued operations for FY24. The
following major classes of assets and liabilities relating to TR Norge AS have been classified
as held for sale in the consolidated statement of financial position as at 31 March 2024:
2024 2023
£000 £000
Right‑of‑use assets
66
—
Deferred tax asset
3
—
Inventories
306
—
Trade and other receivables
249
—
Assets held for sale
623
—
Right‑of‑use liabilities
76
—
Trade and other payables
272
—
Liabilities held for sale
348
—
On 2 May 2024, the Group agreed to amend the interest cover covenant in the RCF and
UKEF EDG term loan facilities agreements. This applies from the 30 June 2024 quarterly
covenant calculation as follows:
1. Each relevant period from 30 June 2024, ending on 30 September 2025: 3.25x
2. Each relevant period from 31 December 2025, ending on 30 September 2026: 3.50x
3. Each relevant period from 31 December 2026, thereafter: 4.00x
On 3 July 2024, KBC Bank NV (KBC) became a lender as part of the RCF agreement. The
facility commitment remained at £70.0m as an existing lender transferred part of their
commitment to KBC. This commitment will support the Group’s treasury strategy and
plans in Eastern Europe.
Subsequent to the year end, on 27 June 2024, one of our customers entered into
bankruptcy proceedings. Given the administration status of the customer, the debtor
balance of £1.0m (excluding value added taxes) as on the date the customer went into
administration is now considered at risk and may result in potential impairment. The
management is closely monitoring the situation and will take appropriate actions to
mitigate any potential financial impact on the Group. The expected credit loss (ECL)
provision as at the balance sheet date adequately covers any expected loss for the debtor
balance as at the balance sheet date. Hence, there is no impact on the expected credit loss
provision reported in the consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 March
2024 and accordingly is considered as a non‑adjusting event.
30 Accounting estimates and judgements
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with Adopted IFRS requires
management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application
of policies and reported annual amounts of assets and liabilities, income and expenses.
Actual results may differ from these estimates. The estimates and underlying assumptions
are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised
in the period in which the estimate is revised if the revision affects only that period, or
in the period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects both current and
future periods.
Key judgements
In preparing the financial statements and applying the Group’s accounting policies,
key judgements made by management include the Project Atlas costs meeting the
capitalisation criteria under IAS 38 Intangible Assets.
This relates to Project Atlas costs meeting the capitalisation criteria under IAS 38
Intangible Assets, allowing directly attributable costs to be capitalised. The judgement
includes identifying and quantifying the costs that should be capitalised, which principally
relate to the design and build of the IT infrastructure, from the overall Project Atlas spend.
The March 2021 IFRS IC agenda decision update on ‘configuration and customisation costs
in a cloud computing arrangement’ was considered in reaching this judgement. Management
concluded that the Group continues to have control of the software intangible asset and
hence it is appropriate to capitalise these costs due to the following factors:
• The Group has a right to take possession of a copy of the software and run it on either
our own or a third party’s computer infrastructure
• The ‘on‑premises’ system functionality continues to provide an appropriate level of
value in use for the Group in comparison to the cloud version
219
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Financial statements
Additional information
30 Accounting estimates and judgements continued
Key judgements continued
This judgement will be reviewed periodically and if either of these circumstances change
(the right to obtain a copy or the functionality diminishes) it could lead to an impairment of
the intangible asset.
In the year, £0.2m (FY23: £0.9m) (see notes 13 and 14) has been capitalised. The costs
expensed in the income statement are disclosed in note 2. Other than the above, no
judgements have been made, other than those involving estimations, that have a significant
effect on the amounts recognised in the financial statements.
Sources of estimation uncertainty
The sources of estimation uncertainty that management have identified which may result
in a material adjustment to the carrying amount of assets and liabilities in the next financial
year are inventory valuation and recoverability of goodwill.
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value with a provision being
made for obsolete and slow‑moving items. Initially, management makes a judgement
on whether an item of inventory should be classified as standard or customer specific.
Inventory which are custom made for specific customers are classified as customer
specific and remaining inventory are classed as standard stock. This classification then
largely determines when a provision is recognised. Predominantly across the Group for
customer‑specific inventory, 50% provision is made for inventories more than 12 months
old and provided at 100% for inventories more than 18 months old. Management then
estimates the net realisable value of the stock for each individual classification. There has
been no change in the past assumptions. In most circumstances, a provision is made earlier
for customer‑specific stock (compared to standard) because it generally carries a greater
risk of becoming obsolete or slow moving given the fastenings are designed specifically for
an individual customer. The amount of write‑downs recognised as an expense in the period
relating to this estimate is detailed in note 18.
The carrying amount of inventory at year end was £73.4m, of which £38.4m related to
customer‑specific stock (FY23: carrying value £90.9m, customer‑specific stock £51.9m).
The key sensitivity to the carrying amount of customer‑specific inventory relates to
the future demand levels for specific products stocked for individual customers. In the
event that an individual customer’s demand for products specific to them unexpectedly
reduced, the Company might be required to increase the inventory provision. Although
one customer taking such action is unlikely to result in a material adjustment, multiple
customers taking such action over a short timescale could result in a material adjustment.
The range of possible outcomes includes a write off of the carrying amount at year end,
to a write back of the customer‑specific inventory provision at year end of £6.9m (FY23:
£6.1m).
The carrying amount of goodwill at the year end was £22.5m (FY23: £22.9m). Value in
use calculations have been performed and no impairment noted. Sensitivity analysis have
been performed. See note 13 for further details. In addition assessment was performed
for all CGUs to identify any indicators of impairment. Following these analysis, impairment
indicators were identified in relation to TR Hungary CGU. Value in use calculations were
performed which resulted in impairment of the non‑current assets of £1.9m. See note 13 for
further details.
In FY23, as a result of increased discount rates and changes in estimated future cash flows,
our discounted cash flow calculations showed an impairment in the TR Italy CGU of £2.9m.
This resulted in full impairment of the goodwill in the in the TR Italy CGU.
As noted in note 1, management have considered the impact of the climate‑related risks
and opportunities on the business. Management have considered the potential effects
of climate related changes in its estimates and future cash flow forecasts underpinning
impairment testing for non‑current assets. At present, it has been concluded that the
impact will not be significant. These assumptions depend upon the outcome of future
events and may need to be revised as circumstances change.
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
220
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Additional information
31 Trifast plc subsidiaries
Percentage of
ordinary shares held
Country of Issued and
incorporation fully paid Principal
or registration share capital
activity
Group Company
Office address
Europe
Trifast Overseas Holdings Ltd
United Kingdom
£112
Holding Company
100%
100%
Trifast House, Bellbrook Park, Uckfield, East
Sussex, TN22 1QW, UK
Trifast Holdings B.V.
Netherlands
€18,427
Holding Company
—
100%
KVK
33268
836,
Vestigingsnr. 000018832806,
Kelvinstratt 5, 7575 AS Oldenzaal, Netherlands
TR Fastenings Ltd
United Kingdom
£10,200
Manufacture and
—
100%
Trifast House, Bellbrook Park, Uckfield, East
distribution of fastenings Sussex, TN22 1QW, UK
TR Southern Fasteners Limited
Republic of
€254
Distribution of fastenings
—
100%
Mallow Business & Technology Park, Mallow, Co.
Ireland Cork, P51 HV12, Republic of Ireland
TR Norge AS
Norway
NOK
300,000
Distribution of fastenings
—
100%
Masteveien 8, NO‑1481 Hagan, Norway
TR Miller Holding B.V.
Netherlands
€45,378
Distribution of fastenings
—
100%
Kelvinstraat 5, 7575 AS, Oldenzaal, Netherlands
Lancaster Fastener Company Ltd
United Kingdom
£40,000
Distribution of fastenings
—
100%
Trifast House, Bellbrook Park, Uckfield, East
Sussex, TN22 1QW, UK
TR Fastenings AB
Sweden
SEK 1,500,000
Distribution of fastenings
—
100%
Box
4133
, Smedjegatan 6, 7tr,
SE‑131 04 Nacka, Sweden
TR Hungary Kft
Hungary
HUF
68,257,300
Distribution of fastenings
—
100%
Szigetszentmiklós, Diósgyőri utca 2,
2310
Hungary
TR Fastenings Poland Sp. Z o.o
Poland
PLN
50,000
Distribution of fastenings
100%
100%
Al Jerozolimskie 56c, 00‑803 Warszawa,
Poland
TR Italy SPA
Italy
€ 187, 20 0
Manufacture and
—
100%
Via Giuseppe Costantini, 19,
distribution of fastenings
06022
Fossato Di Vico (PG), Italy
VIC Sp. Z o.o.
Poland
PLN
50,000
Distribution of fastenings
—
100%
Wroclaw, ul Wiosenna 14/2, Poland
TR Kuhlmann GmbH
Germany
€25,000
Distribution of fastenings
—
100%
Lerchenweg 99, 33415 Verl, Germany
Precision Technology Supplies Ltd
United Kingdom
£10,000
Distribution of fastenings
—
100%
Trifast House, Bellbrook Park, Uckfield, East
Sussex, TN22 1QW, UK
TR Fastenings España – Ingenieria Industrial, S.L.
Spain
€3,085
Distribution of fastenings
—
100%
Calle De La CiIencia 43, Viladecans Barcelona,
0
CP
8
840, Spain
1
2
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
221
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Strategic report Governance
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Additional information
Percentage of
ordinary shares held
Country of Issued and
incorporation fully paid Principal
or registration share capital
activity
Group Company
Office address
Asia
TR Asia Investment Holdings Pte Ltd
Singapore
S$4
Holding Company
—
100%
57 Senoko Road, Singapore 758121
TR Formac Pte Ltd
Singapore
S$315,000
Manufacture and
—
100%
57 Senoko Road, Singapore 758121
distribution of fastenings
TR Formac (Shanghai) Pte Ltd
China
US$200,000
Distribution of fastenings
—
100%
Room D, 1F, Building 2, No 390 Ai Du Road, China
(Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone, Shanghai
Special Fasteners Engineering Co Ltd
Taiwan TW$100,000,000
Manufacture and
—
100%
9F.‑3 No. 366, Bo Ai 2nd Rd. Kaohsiung 81358,
distribution of fastenings Taiwan, R.O.C.
TR Formac Fastenings Private Ltd
India
INR
18,850,000
Distribution of fastenings
—
100%
Door No:6, 05th Cross Street, Mangala Nagar,
Porur, Chennai‑600 116, India
Power Steel & Electro‑Plating Works SDN Bhd
Malaysia
MYR 4,586,523
Manufacture and
—
100%
Suite
16
09, Tingkat 16, Plaza Pengkalan, Batu 3
distribution of fastenings Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah 51200 Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia
TR Formac Co. Ltd
Thailand
THB
60,000,000
Distribution of fastenings
—
100%
28, 3rd Floor Motorway Road, Prawet, Bangkok
10,250, Thailand
Americas
TR Fastenings Inc
USA
US$20,000
Distribution of fastenings
—
100%
10811
Vine Crest Drive, Suite 190, Houston, Texas
7
70
86, USA
TR Falcon Fastening Solutions
USA
US$1,000
Distribution of fastenings
—
100%
10715
John Proce Road, Charlotte, North Carolina,
28273,
USA
Trifast Holdings (US) Inc
USA
$1
Holding Company
—
100%
251
Little Falls Drive, Wilmington, Delaware,
19808,
USA
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
31 Trifast plc subsidiaries continued
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Financial statements
Additional information
Percentage of
ordinary shares held
Country of Issued and
incorporation fully paid Principal
or registration share capital
activity
Group Company
Office address
Dormants
Trifast Systems Ltd
United Kingdom
£1
Dormant
100%
100%
Trifast House, Bellbrook Park, Uckfield, East
Sussex, TN22 1QW, UK
Ivor Green (Exports) Ltd
United Kingdom
£1
Dormant
100%
100%
Trifast House, Bellbrook Park, Uckfield, East
Sussex, TN22 1QW, UK
Charles Stringer’s Sons & Co. Limited
United Kingdom
£1
Dormant
100%
100%
Trifast House, Bellbrook Park, Uckfield, East
Sussex, TN22 1QW, UK
Fastech (Scotland) Ltd
United Kingdom
£1
Dormant
100%
100%
International House, Stanley Boulevard, Hamilton
Intnl Technology Park, Blantyre, Glasgow,
Scotland, G72 0BN
Micro Screws & Tools Ltd
United Kingdom
£1
Dormant
100%
100%
Trifast House, Bellbrook Park, Uckfield, East
Sussex, TN22 1QW, UK
Trifast Holdings (Asia) Ltd
United Kingdom
£2
Dormant
100%
100%
Trifast House, Bellbrook Park, Uckfield, East
Sussex, TN22 1QW, UK
Rollthread International Ltd
United Kingdom
£1
Dormant
100%
100%
Trifast House, Bellbrook Park, Uckfield, East
Sussex, TN22 1QW, UK
TR Group Ltd
United Kingdom
£1
Dormant
100%
100%
Trifast House, Bellbrook Park, Uckfield, East
Sussex, TN22 1QW, UK
Fastener Techniques Ltd
United Kingdom
£1
Dormant
100%
100%
Trifast House, Bellbrook Park, Uckfield, East
Sussex, TN22 1QW, UK
Trifast Qualifying Employee Share Ownership Trustee
United Kingdom
£2
Dormant
100%
100%
Trifast House, Bellbrook Park, Uckfield, East
Ltd Sussex, TN22 1QW, UK
Trifix Ltd
United Kingdom
£100
Dormant
100%
100%
Trifast House, Bellbrook Park, Uckfield, East
Sussex, TN22 1QW, UK
Serco Ryan Ltd
United Kingdom
£3,000
Dormant
100%
100%
Trifast House, Bellbrook Park, Uckfield, East
Sussex, TN22 1QW, UK
TR Europe Ltd
United Kingdom
£2,500
Dormant
100%
100%
Trifast House, Bellbrook Park, Uckfield, East
Sussex, TN22 1QW, UK
1,3
1
1,3
1,3
1,3
1
3
3
All of the above subsidiaries have been included in the Group’s financial statements.
1. During FY24, these companies undertook a purchase of their own shares to reduce their share capital to £1
2. During FY24, Trifast Qualifying Employee Share Ownership Trustee Ltd has been dissolved by Companies House
3. These companies have been dissolved by Companies House since 31.03.2024
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
31 Trifast plc subsidiaries continued
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Additional information
32 Alternative Performance Measures
The Annual Report includes both GAAP measures and Alternative Performance Measures (APMs), the latter of which are considered by management to allow the readers of the accounts
to understand the underlying trading performance of the Group. A number of these APMs are used by management to measure the KPIs of the business (see pages 20 and 21 for key
performance indicators) and are therefore aligned to the Group’s strategic aims. They are also used at Board level to monitor financial performance throughout the year.
The APMs used in the Annual Report (including the basis of calculation, assumptions, use and relevance) are detailed in note 2 (underlying profit before tax, EBITDA and underlying
EBITDA) and below.
• Constant Exchange Rate (CER) figures
These are used predominantly in the financial review and give the readers a better understanding of the performance of the Group, regions and entities from a trading perspective.
They have been calculated by translating the FY24 income statement results (of subsidiaries whose presentational currency is not Sterling) using FY23 average annual exchange rates
to provide a comparison which removes the foreign currency translational impact. The impacts of translational gains and losses made on non‑functional currency net assets held around
the Group have not been removed.
• Underlying operating margin/EBIT margin
Underlying operating margin is used in the financial review to give the reader an understanding of the performance of the Group and regions. It is calculated by dividing underlying
operating profit (see return on capital employed section for reconciliation to operating profit) by revenue in the year.
• Underlying effective tax rate
This is used in the underlying diluted EPS calculation. It removes the tax impact of separately disclosed items in the year to arrive at a tax rate based on the underlying profit before tax.
2024
2023
Profit impact Tax impact ETR Profit impact Tax impact ETR
£000 £000 % £000 £000 %
Profit/(loss) before tax
(789)
(3,651)
(462.7)%
(2,692)
(174)
(6.5)%
Separately disclosed items
7,314
(692)
9.5%
11,992
(2,211)
18.4%
Underlying profit before tax
6,525
(4,343)
66.6%
9,300
(2,385)
25.6%
• Underlying diluted EPS
A key measure for the Group to understand the underlying earnings per share. The calculation has been disclosed in note 25.
• Underlying profit before tax
A key measure for the Group, as it is one of the measures used to set the Directors’ variable remuneration, as disclosed in the Directors’ remuneration report. The calculation has been
disclosed in note 2.
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
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Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
32 Alternative Performance Measures continued
• Underlying cash conversion as a percentage of underlying EBITDA
This is another key metric used by investors to understand how effective the Group was at
converting profit into cash. The adjustments made to arrive at underlying cash conversion
from cash generated from operations are detailed below. To reconcile operating profit to
underlying EBITDA, see note 2.
2024 2023
£000 £000
Underlying cash conversion
34,344
9,435
Project Atlas
815
(1,634)
Restructuring and reorganisation costs
(5,262)
—
Acquisition costs
—
(261)
Settlement for loss of office
—
(1,050)
Profit on disposal of assets classified as held for sale
2,014
—
Cash generated from operations
31,911
6,490
• Adjusted net debt to adjusted underlying EBITDA (adjusted leverage) ratio
This removes the impact of IFRS 16 Leases from both net debt and underlying EBITDA and
IFRS 2 Share‑based Payments from underlying EBITDA to better reflect the banking facility
covenant calculations. Underlying EBITDA is reconciled to operating profit in note 2.
2024 2023
£000 £000
Net debt
(39,387)
(53,840)
Right‑of‑use lease liabilities
18,423
15,813
Adjusted net debt
(20,964)
(38,027)
2024 2023
£000 £000
Underlying EBITDA
19,848
19,297
IFRS 2 Share‑based Payment charge
and other related costs
(101)
168
Operating lease payments
(4,447)
(4,483)
Adjusted underlying EBITDA
15,300
14,982
• Adjusted interest cover
This is adjusted EBITDA to adjusted net interest to better reflect the banking facility
covenant calculations, removing the impact of IFRS 16 Leases. Underlying EBITDA has IFRS
16 Leases and IFRS 2 Share‑based Payments removed above and is reconciled to operating
profit in note 2.
2024 2023
£000 £000
Net interest
(5,419)
(2,684)
Right‑of‑use liability interest
796
430
Adjusted net interest
(4,623)
(2,254)
• Underlying return on capital employed (ROCE)
Return on capital employed is a key metric used by investors to understand how efficient
the Group is with its capital employed. The calculation is detailed in the glossary on page
230. The numerator is underlying EBIT which has been reconciled to operating profit
below. Note 2 explains why the separately disclosed items have been removed to aid
understanding of the underlying performance of the Group.
2024 2023
£000 £000
Underlying EBIT/underlying operating profit
11,944
11,984
Separately disclosed items within administrative expenses
Settlement for loss of office
—
(1,050)
Impairment of non‑current assets
(1,964)
(2,926)
Acquired intangible amortisation
(1,780)
(1,798)
Project Atlas
(2,079)
(1,722)
Acquisition costs
—
—
Restructuring and reorganisation costs
(1,491)
(4,235)
Aborted acquisition cost
—
(261)
Operating profit
4,630
(8)
• Working capital as a percentage of revenue
This is calculated as current assets excluding cash and assets held for sale, less current
liabilities excluding liabilities held for sale, restructuring provisions and tax payable as a
percentage of Group revenue. It is a KPI for the Group as it remains a key focus to ensure
efficient allocation of capital on the balance sheet to improve quality of earnings and
reduce the additional investment needed to support organic growth.
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Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
33 Reconciliation of net cash flow to movement in net debt
2024 2023
£000 £000
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
(9,825)
4,862
Proceeds from new loan
—
(16,423)
Repayment of external loan
116,500
—
Proceeds from external loan
(91,414)
—
Net increase in right‑of‑use liabilities
(3,000)
(1,860)
Net proceeds from borrowings
22,086
(18,283)
Increase/(decrease) in net debt before exchange rate
differences
12,260
(13,421)
Movement in prepaid arrangement fees
1,414
(206)
Exchange rate differences
779
(2,736)
Increase in net debt
14,453
(16,363)
Opening net (debt)
(53,840)
(37,477)
Closing net debt
(39,387)
(53,840)
Net debt is reconciled to the balance sheet as follows:
2024 2023
£000 £000
Cash and cash equivalents
20,884
31,798
Other interest‑bearing loans and borrowings
(41,848)
(69,825)
Right‑of‑use liabilities
(18,423)
(15,813)
Closing net (debt)
(39,387)
(53,840)
34 Changes in financial liabilities including both cash flows
and non-cash changes
2024 2023
£000 £000
Group
Finance liabilities at 1 April
85,638
64,218
Cash flow changes
(28,448)
12,631
Foreign exchange on financial liabilities
(1,867)
2,931
Arrangement fees unwinding
(1,414)
206
Right‑of‑use liabilities additions
6,988
5,652
Right‑of‑use liabilities reclassified as held for sale
(76)
—
Right‑of‑use liabilities derecognition on termination
(550)
—
Finance liabilities at 31 March
60,271
85,638
The financial liabilities have an interest expense which was fully paid at the year end.
See statement of cash flows on page 166.
2024 2023
£000 £000
Company
Finance liabilities at 1 April
69,863
50,549
Cash flow changes
(18,661)
16,399
Foreign exchange on financial liabilities
(1,476)
2,690
Arrangement fees unwinding
(1,414)
—
Right‑of‑use liabilities additions
93
19
Arrangement fees unwinding
—
206
Finance liabilities at 31 March
48,405
69,863
The financial liabilities have an interest expense which was fully paid at the year end.
See statement of cash flows on page 166.
Liabilities arising from financing activities include other interest‑bearing loans and
borrowings and right‑of‑use liabilities.
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Additional information
Notes to the financial statements continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
35 Revenue from contracts with customers
In line with IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers we have included the disaggregation of external revenue by sector, breaking this down by our geographical operating segments.
March 2024
UK & Ireland
Europe
North America
Asia
Total
Light vehicle
8%
14%
6%
6%
34%
Health & home
2%
11%
—
6%
19%
Distributors
7%
2%
1%
4%
14%
Energy, tech & infrastructure
6%
5%
3%
3%
17%
General industrial
5%
4%
2%
—
11%
Heavy vehicle
2%
3%
—
—
5%
Revenue from external customers (AER)
30%
39%
12%
19%
100%
March 2023
UK & Ireland
Europe
North America
Asia
Total
Light vehicle
6%
11%
5%
6%
28%
Health & home
2%
10%
—
6%
18%
Distributors
10%
1%
1%
6%
18%
Energy, tech & infrastructure
6%
5%
4%
3%
18%
General industrial
5%
5%
3%
—
13%
Heavy vehicle
2%
3%
—
—
5%
Revenue from external customers (AER)
31%
35%
13%
21%
100%
36 Equity-accounted investments
The Group has an interest in an individually immaterial joint venture that is accounted for using the equity method.
On 25 September 2023, the Group entered into an agreement to form a joint venture, incorporated as TR Chia Yi Precision Fastenings Manufacturing (Dongguan) Co. Ltd (the ‘JV’).
The agreement requires the Group to invest US$0.4m of share capital, giving a 40% share of the equity; the share capital is to be invested in three instalments, of which US$ 0.3m was
invested during the year with the balance of US$0.1m to be provided during FY25.
At the balance sheet date, the Group’s carrying value of its interest in the JV was £0.2m (2023: £nil). The Group’s share of the JV’s loss for the start‑up period from incorporation to
31 March 2024 was £0.1m, after the elimination on consolidation of the unrealised profit on product purchased by the Group from the JV still held as Group inventory at the balance sheet
date. The JV had no other items of comprehensive income.
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Additional information
Glossary of terms
AER
Actual Exchange Rate.
Assets
Anything owned by the Company having a monetary value; e.g. fixed assets such as
buildings, plant and machinery, vehicles (these are not assets if rented and not owned) and
potentially including intangibles such as trademarks and brand names, and current assets,
such as inventory, debtors and cash.
Average capital employed
Averaged using month‑end balances and opening capital employed. Capital employed is
the sum of net assets and gross debt.
Balance sheet (or statements of financial position)
These provide a ‘snapshot’ at a date in time of who owns what in the Company, and what
assets and debts represent the value of the Company.
The balance sheet is where to look for information about short‑term and long‑term debts,
gearing (the ratio of debt to equity), reserves, inventory values (materials and finished
goods), capital assets, cash and the value of shareholders’ funds. The balance sheet
equation is:
Capital + Liabilities (where the money came from)
= Assets (where the money is now)
Broker option
The broker option has been issued to facilitate the participation by existing shareholders of
the Company, being shareholders of the Company who hold shares in the Company.
CAGR
Compounded Annual Growth Rate.
Cash flow
The movement of cash in and out of a business from day‑to‑day direct trading and other
non‑trading effects, such as capital expenditure, tax and dividend payments.
Category ‘C’ components
Low‑value components that are wrapped up into our supply proposition for a customer.
CBAM
Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism.
CER
Constant Exchange Rate.
Current assets
Cash and anything that is expected to be converted into cash within 12 months of the
balance sheet date. For example, debtors or inventory.
Current liabilities
Money owed by the business that is generally due for payment within 12 months of balance
sheet date. For example: creditors, bank overdrafts or tax.
Depreciation
The proportion of cost relating to a capital item, over an agreed period (based on the
useful life of the asset); for example, a piece of equipment costing £10,000 having a life of
five years might be depreciated over five years at a cost of £2,000 per year.
This would be shown in the income statement as a depreciation cost of £2,000 per year;
the balance sheet would show an asset value of £8,000 at the end of year one, reducing by
£2,000 per year; and the cash flow statement would show all £10,000 being used to pay
for it in year one.
Dividend
A dividend is a payment made per share to a company’s shareholders and is based on
the profits of the year, but not necessarily all the profits. Normally a half‑year dividend is
recommended by a company board whilst the final dividend for the year is proposed by the
Board of Directors and shareholders consider and vote on this at the Annual General Meeting.
Dividend cover
Underlying diluted earnings per share over proposed dividend per share in the year.
Earnings before
There are several ‘Earnings before….’ ratios. The key ones being:
• PBT Profit/earnings before taxes
• EBIT Earnings before interest and taxes
• EBITDA Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation
• Underlying profit before separately disclosed items (see note 2)
Earnings relate to operating and non‑operating profits (e.g. interest, dividends received
from other investments).
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EDG
Export Development Guarantee.
GAAP
Generally Accepted Accounting Practice.
GDPR
The General Data Protection Regulation is a regulation by which the European Parliament,
the Council of the European Union and the European Commission intend to strengthen and
unify data protection for all individuals within the European Union. It also addresses the
export of personal data outside the EU.
Gearing
The ratio of debt to equity, usually the relationship between long‑term borrowings and
shareholders’ funds.
Goodwill
Any surplus money paid to acquire a company that exceeds its net assets fair value.
ICAEW
Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales.
Intellectual property (IP)
This is an intangible asset such as a copyright or patent.
Copyright is the exclusive right to produce copies and to control an original work and is
granted by law for a specified number of years.
A patent is a government grant to an inventor, assuring the inventor the sole right to make,
use and sell an invention for a limited period.
Legal entity identifier (LEI)
An LEI is a unique identifier for persons that are legal entities or structures including
companies, charities and trusts. The obligation for legal entities or structures to obtain
an LEI was endorsed by the G20 (the leaders of the 20 largest economies). Further
information on LEIs, including answers to frequently asked questions, can be found at
https://www.lei‑worldwide.com/lei‑code‑faq.html.
MiFID
MiFID applied in the UK from 2007, and was revised by MiFID II, in January 2018, to
improve the functioning of financial markets in light of the financial crisis and to strengthen
investor protection. MiFID II extended the MiFID requirements in a number of areas – new
market structure requirements, including:
• New and extended requirements in relation to transparency
• New rules on research and inducements
• New product governance requirements for manufacturers and distributors of MiFID
‘products’
• Introduction of a harmonised commodity position limits regime
Multinational OEMs
We use this term to include all Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Tier 1 suppliers
inthe automotive sector and relevant key sub‑contractors in the other sectors we service.
Non-pre-emptive rights
This term refers to an issue or sale of any equity securities by a company to which
pre‑emptive rights do not apply.
OEM
Original equipment manufacturers.
PDMR
This term stands for Persons Discharging Managerial Responsibility. These relate
topeoplewho are Board Directors or Senior Management, who have access to
price‑sensitive information on a regular basis. As a result, if they buy or sell shares at
anytime this must be declared in a PDMR notice which is released by the Company via
the London Stock Exchange News Service (RNS). PDMRs may not deal in the Company’s
shares in a close period.
P/E ratio (price per earnings)
The P/E ratio is an important indicator as to how the investing market views the health,
performance, prospects and investment risk of a plc. The P/E ratio is arrived at by dividing
the share price by the underlying diluted earnings per share.
Glossary of terms continued
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Placing
A Placing (called a placement in the USA) is the issue of new securities, which are sold
directly to holders, usually institutional investors. Unlike a rights issue, a Placing of shares is
not an offer to existing shareholders; simply to any suitable buyers who can be found. The
advantage of a Placing is that it is a cheaper and simpler method of raising funds for the
business.
PPE
PPE stands for Personal Protective Equipment and includes items such as masks, helmets,
gloves, eye protection and high‑visibility clothing and is designed to keep people safe.
Pre-emptive rights
Pre‑emptive rights are a clause in an option, security or merger agreement that gives the
investor the right to maintain his or her percentage ownership of a company by buying a
proportionate number of shares of any future issue of the security.
Profit
The surplus remaining after total costs are deducted from total revenue.
Profit and loss account (P&L) (or income statement)
The P&L shows how well the Company has performed in its trading activities and would
cover a trading account for a period.
The P&L shows profit performance and typically shows sales revenue, cost of sales/cost of
goods sold, generally a gross profit margin, fixed overheads and/or operating expenses,
and then a profit before tax figure (PBT).
Project Atlas
A Microsoft D365 implementation programme.
Reserves
The accumulated and retained difference between profits and losses year‑on‑year since
the Company’s formation.
Retained profit/earnings
Business profit which is after tax and dividend payments to shareholders; retained by the
business and used for reinvestment.
Return on capital employed (ROCE)
A fundamental financial performance measure. A percentage figure representing earnings
before interest and tax against the money that is invested in the business.
Underlying EBIT ÷ average capital employed (net assets + gross debt) × 100 = ROCE.
RCF
Revolving Credit Facility.
Rights issue
A rights issue is the term for when a company offers more of its ordinary shares to current
shareholders, usually to raise extra capital for the business.
Share capital
The balance sheet nominal value paid into the Company by shareholders at the time(s)
shares were issued.
Shareholders’ funds
A measure of the shareholders’ total interest in the Company, represented by the total
share capital plus reserves.
Statements of cash flow
The statements of cash flow show the movement and availability of cash through and
to the business over a given period. For any business ‘cash is king’ and essential to meet
payments, for example to suppliers, staff and other creditors.
Stock code
A stock code is used to find a listing on the regulatory market such as the London Stock
Exchange. Trifast’s stock code is TRI.
Third-party logistics (3PL)
3PL in logistics and supply chain management is an organisation’s use of third‑party
businesses to outsource elements of its distribution, warehousing and fulfilment services.
Tier 1
A subcontractor to the OEM.
Trademark
The name or a symbol used by a manufacturer or dealer to distinguish its products from
those of competitors. A registered trademark is one that is officially registered and legally
protected.
UKEF
UK Export Finance.
Working capital
Current assets excluding cash, less current liabilities excluding debt‑like items representing
the required investment, continually circulating, to finance inventory, debtors and work in
progress.
Glossary of terms continued
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2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
Revenue £200.2m £188.2m £218.6m £244.4m £233.7m
GP margin
2
27. 5% 26.5% 26.7% 25.3% 25.5%
Underlying operating profit
1,2
£15.8m £12.0m £14.7m £12.0m £11.9m
Underlying operating profit margin
1,2
7.9% 6.4% 6.7% 4.9% 5.1%
Operating profit/(loss)
2
£4.1m £8.8m £11.6m £(8.0)k £4.6m
Operating profit margin
2
2.0% 4.7% 5.3% 0.0% 2.0%
Underlying EBITDA
1,2
£21.2m £17.6m £20.4m £19.3m £19.8m
Underlying PBT
1,2
£14.7m £11.0m £13.8m £9.3m £6.5m
PBT/(LBT)
2
£3.0m £7. 8m £10.6m £(2.7)m £(0.8)m
ROCE %
1,2
8.8% 6.8% 8.3% 5.4% 5.7%
Total dividend per share 1.20p 1.60p 2.10p 2.25p 1.80p
Dividend increase/(decrease) %
(71.8)% 33.3% 31.3% 7.1% (20.0)%
Dividend cover 7.2x 3.9x 3.9x 2.3x 0.9x
Underlying diluted EPS
1,2
8.64p 6.24p 8.13p 5.13p 1.62p
Diluted EPS/(LPS)
2
(0.19)p 4.31p 6.56p (2.12)p (3.29)p
Adjusted net debt/(cash)
3
£15.2m £(13.3)m £23.8m £38.0m £21.0m
Cash conversion % of underlying EBITDA
1,2
105.1% 147.9% (66.8)% 48.9% 173.0%
Share price at 31 March 95p 150p 115p 78p 75p
1. Before separately disclosed items, see note 2
2. Presented after adoption of IFRS 16 Leases from FY20
3. Adjusted net debt/(cash) is excluding the impact of IFRS 16 Leases
 
Five-year history
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Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Strategic report Governance Financial statements
Additional information
Company
Trifast plc
Incorporated in the United Kingdom
Registered number: 01919797
LSE Premium Listing
Ticker: TRI
LEI REFERENCE: 213800WFIVE6RWK3CR22
Head office and registered office
Trifast House
Bellbrook Park, Uckfield
East Sussex TN22 1QW
Telephone: +44 (0)1825 747366
Committee memberships as at 1 April 2024
Audit & Risk Committee
Clive Watson (Chair)
Louis Eperjesi
Laura Whyte
Remuneration Committee
Laura Whyte (Chair)
Clive Watson
Louis Eperjesi
Nomination Committee
Serena Lang (Chair)
Clive Watson
Louis Eperjesi
Laura Whyte
Responsible Business Committee
Louis Eperjesi (Chair)
Serena Lang
Iain Percival
Clive Watson
Laura Whyte
Company Secretary
Christopher Morgan
Email: companysecretariat@trifast.com
Advisers
Registered auditor
BDO LLP
2 City Place, Beehive Ring Road
Gatwick
West Sussex RH6 0PA
Corporate stockbroker
Peel Hunt LLP
100 Liverpool Street
London EC2M 2AT
Solicitor
CMS LLP
78 Cannon Street
London EC4 N 6AF
Registrar
Computershare Investor Services plc
The Pavilions, Bridgwater Road
Bristol BS13 8AE
Financial PR
TooleyStreet Communications Limited
15 Colmore Row
Birmingham B3 2BH
Company and advisers
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Strategic report Governance Financial statements
Additional information
Financial calendar
AGM 12.30pm, 10 September 2024
Half-yearly results November 2024
1
Trading update February 2025
1
Financial year end 31 March 2025
1
Pre-close trading update April 2025
1
Preliminary results June 2025
1
1. Dates are provisional and subject to change
Details of the Company’s up‑to‑date financial reporting calendar can be found on our
website at www.trifast.com/investors/financial‑information/financial‑calendar.
Dividend calendar
Proposed final dividend 1.20p
Ex-dividend date 12 September 2024
Final dividend record date 13 September 2024
Last date for DRIP elections 20 September 2024
Final dividend payment date 11 October 2024
DRIP document mailing date 21 October 2024
Annual General Meeting (AGM)
The Annual General Meeting will be held at 12.30pm on 10 September 2024 at the
UK National Distribution Centre, Reedswood Park Road, Walsall WS2 8DQ.
The Notice of Meeting, which includes special business to be transacted at the AGM
together with an explanation of the resolutions to be considered at the meeting, is made
available on the Company’s website and communicated directly to shareholders.
Registrar
Trifast’s Registrar is Computershare Investor Services. They can be contacted for any
matters relating to your shareholding, including notification of change in name and
address; enquiries about dividend payments; and submission of proxy form for voting at
the Annual General Meeting.
Shareholders who receive duplicate sets of Company mailings because they have
multiple accounts should contact Computershare to have their accounts amalgamated.
Computershare offers a facility whereby shareholders can access their shareholdings in
Trifast via their website.
Please have your Shareholder Reference Number to hand whenever you contact the
Registrar www.computershare.com/uk.
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Trifast plc | Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Trifast House
Bellbrook Park
Uckfield
East Sussex
TN22 1QW
Tel: +44 (0)1825 747366
Our website:www.trifast.com
LinkedIn:www.linkedin.com/company/tr-fastenings
X:www.x.com/trfastenings
Facebook:www.facebook.com/trfastenings
Trifast plc | Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2024