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Friday 19 June, 2009

Global Brands S.A.

Annual Results for the year e

RNS Number : 1237U
Global Brands S.A.
19 June 2009
 

For immediate release                            

Global Brands S.A. (the 'Company')

Annual Results for the year ended 31 December 2008 

Global Brands S.A., the master franchise owner for Domino's Pizza in Switzerland, Luxembourg and Liechtenstein, today reports its Final Results for the twelve months ended 31 December 2008.

Financial highlights:


  • Revenues grew 6.95 per cent to CHF 11.69 million.

  •  The combined stores were operationally profitable.

  • However, the operating profit generated by the stores was insufficient to absorb indirect overhead expenditure and extraordinary itemsresulting in EBITDA (Earnings before Interest, Tax, Depreciation & Amortisation) loss of CHF 1.95 million.

  • After depreciation, amortisation, a write down of a deferred tax asset of CHF 495.8K, and financial charges and income the final loss was CHF 3.05 million. 

  • Cash resources as at 31 December 2008 amounted to CHF 1.6 million against current creditors (excluding provisions) of CHF 3.3 million. The Company has obtained an irrevocable undertaking from NobleRock Capital sàrl, to provide financial support for an amount up to CHF 1 million until 30 June 2010 to settle the Company's obligations as they come due. The Company will also explore further funding opportunities during the year. 


Corporate Developments:


  • Sale of 2,505,860 ordinary shares of CHF 2.10 to NobleRock Capital sàrl (formerly Belvia sàrl ), a Luxembourg company, in Q1 2008, representing 51.96 per cent of the issued share capital of the Company.

  • Both Mr. Yossi Moldawsky, Executive Chairman, and Mr. Dov Lachovitz, Chief Executive Officer, resigned from the Board. Mr. Yair Hasson and Mr. Roberto Avondo were appointed to the Board as Executive Chairman and Executive Vice Chairman respectively. On 2 June 2008, Mr. Amir Hasson was appointed as an executive director and Messers Bruce Vandenberg and Simon Bentley were appoint as non-executive directors.

  • A new store was opened in Basel in the third quarter of 2008. 


Events Subsequent to the year end:

  • On 20 March 2009 Mr Yair Hasson and Mr Amir Hasson were suspended from all operational duties pending an investigation into their day to day management of the Company.  The Company requested that dealing in the ordinary shares of the Company on AIM be suspended with immediate effect pending the outcome of the investigation.  

  • On 14 May 2009, at a duly convened General Meeting, the resolution to dismiss Mr. Yair Hasson and Mr. Amir Hasson from the Board of the Company was passed by a majority of the votes cast. Mr. Yair Hasson and Mr. Amir Hasson are no longer members of the Board of Directors.

  • On 20 May 2009 Mr Yair Hasson's Appointment Agreement was terminated with immediate effect.

  • On 8 June 2009 Mr Amir Hasson's engagement was terminated with immediate effect following a formal disciplinary process

  • The Directors are reviewing the existing management structure of the Company and considering further appointments. In the meantime, the current directors will continue to be responsible for the day to day operations of the Company.


Trading Outlook

Despite the current circumstance and the general economic environment, the Directors are confident about the mid and long term prospects for the Company. The key strengths of the business are:

  • a distinctive product brand;

  • an emphasis on consistently high quality product as a result of stringent selection of high quality ingredients;

  • an emphasis on speedy delivery and service to customers;

  • staff training, exacting brand standards and the use of standardised processes;

  • a loyal customer base;

  • a market leading position;

  • a cash generative business model at the operational level; and 

  • a business model that provides opportunities to roll-out further new stores at a low investment cost. 

The effect of the economic recession on the Company remains uncertain, but Management is confident that its value for money products and quality service will sustain demand.


Business expansion through new stores will be constrained by funding available to the Company and the willingness of Swiss banks to offer corporate loan facilities. However, the Directors believe in the strength of Domino's brand and the soundness of the business model. On this basis, in close cooperation with NobleRock Capital sàrl , the Directors will continue to seek and explore opportunities to develop new stores and curb overheads in order to bring the Company on to a profitable track in the foreseeable future.

  

For further information contact:

Global Brands S.A.

Simon Bentley, Senior Non-Executive Director            Tel: (0)20 7726 7010
                                                                                       www.globalbrands.ch


ZAI Corporate Finance Ltd

Thilo Hoffman                                                                Tel: (0)20 7060 1760

Charity Walmsley                                                          Tel: (0)20 7060 1760
                                                                                       www.zimmint.com

Alexander David Securities Ltd

David Scott                                                                    Tel: (0)20 7448 9830
                                                                                       www.ad-securities.com

VICE CHAIRMAN'S STATEMENT


Introduction


Global Brands S.A. ('Global Brands' or the 'Company') is the exclusive master franchisee of Domino's Pizza in Switzerland, Luxembourg and Liechtenstein. 


Domino's Pizza Inc. ('Domino's') was founded in the United States of America in 1960 and is the world's leading pizza delivery brand with over 8,500 stores in more than 50 countries


Our Company is traded on AIM, a market operated by the London Stock Exchange under the company code 'GBR'. The share price and regulatory information are available on the Company's website www.globalbrands.ch. 


Post Balance Sheet Events


As announced on 20 March 2009, the non Executive Directors and I decided to suspend Mr Yair Hasson, and Mr Amir Hasson from all operational duties pending an investigation into their day to day management of the Company. We took this action in what we believed to be the best interests of the Company, its employees and the shareholders. Pending the outcome of the investigation, we requested that dealing in the ordinary shares of the Company on AIM be suspended with immediate effect.  

 

On 14 May 2009, at a duly convened General Meeting, the resolution to dismiss Mr. Yair Hasson and Mr. Amir Hasson from the Board of the Company was passed by a majority of the votes cast.

On 20 May 2009, the Company announced that it had terminated, with immediate effect, the engagement of Mr Yair Hasson, pursuant to the terms of Mr Hasson's Appointment Agreement with the Company dated 11 February 2008. The Company terminated Mr Yair Hasson's engagement with the Company prior to the conclusion of its investigation because of Mr Yair Hasson's failure to comply with the terms of his suspension from the Company.

On 8 June 2008, the Directors announced that, following a formal disciplinary process, they had decided to terminate Mr Amir Hasson's engagement with immediate effect. The Directors took this decision on the grounds that there had been fundamental breaches by Mr Amir Hasson of the terms of his Appointment Agreement with the Company dated 11 February 2008.  

Following the termination of Mr Yair and Amir Hasson's engagement, the Directors are currently reviewing the existing management structure of the Company and considering further appointments, which will be announced in due course. In the meantime, my fellow directors and I will continue to be responsible for the day to day operations of the Company.

In addition, a financial investigation into the Company revealed: 

  • significant and mounting unpaid current liabilities during the year to 31st December 2008;

  • a sharp deterioration in net working capital (being current assets less current liabilities) which fell from a positive position of CHF 323K at 31st December 2007 to a negative position of CHF 2,169K at 31st December 2008;


The Directors have taken the following steps to stabilise the Company's financial situation by:

  • actively assuming responsibility for the day to day operations;

  • obtaining an undertaking from its major shareholder, NobleRock Capital sàrl (formerly Belvia sàrl) to provide financial support for the Company's position; and 

  • taking steps to reduce the Company's expenditure on overheads.


My fellow Directors and I are extremely disappointed with the events that led to the current situation. However, we believe that the Company has now been stablised and it can turn its attention once again to developing the business over the longer term.


2008 operating and financial summary


Against the above background, the Company announces its annual results for the year ending 31 December 2008.

 

The table below summarises the performance and financial situation:


31 December 

2008

2007



 

CHF '000's

CHF '000's

Increase (decrease)


Turnover 

11,692

10,932

6.95%


EBITDA

(1,948)

(476)

(308.62%)


Net loss for the year

(3,059)

(2,004)

(52.68%) 


EPS (loss) per share

(0.63)

(0.42)

(50%)


Shareholders' equity

1,100

4,158

(73.56%)


On the positive side, our stores continue to deliver revenue growth with an increase of 6.95% in sales for the year 2008. The Company had eleven stores in operation in the major cities of Basel, Geneva, Lausanne and Zürich and the important towns of Neuchâtel and Renens. A new store in Basel was opened in the third quarter of 2008.  The combined stores were operationally profitable. 


However the operating profit generated by the stores was insufficient to absorb indirect overhead expenditure and extraordinary items relating to the reorganisation of the management and sale of shares to Noble Rock sàrl sàrl ('formerly Belvia sàrl .') in February 2008. The severance payment to former director, Dov Lachovitiz, was CHF 300,000. A further severance payment of CHF 110,000 was made to Yossi Moldawsky but this was subsequently repaid to the Company during the year. Professional fees related to the transaction amounted to CHF 287,000.


The Directors consider it prudent to retain a provision of CHF 726,863 made in the 2007 accounts to cover amounts that that may have to be paid to employees in order to comply with Swiss regulatory requirements relating to minimal compensation and benefits that came into effect during 2005. 

In March 2008, a claim for CHF 77,869 was made by a former director, and a provision for this claim was made in the 2007 accounts. The claim has subsequently been settled at CHF 33,200 and the 2008 accounts have been adjusted accordingly.

Finally, as noted in the 2007 accounts, there are claims against the Company by former employees. The Directors contest the claims but cannot forecast the outcome. One of these claims was settled in 2008 and the total provision of CHF 110,000 for such items has been reduced to CHF 75,000.

The resulting EBITDA (Earnings before Interest, Tax, Depreciation & Amortisation) was a loss of CHF 1.9 million. After taking into account depreciation, amortisation, a write down of the deferred tax asset of CHF 495.8K, financial charges and income, the final result was a loss of CHF 3 million. 


As at 31 December 2008, the Company had cash resources of CHF 1.6 million but trade and other current creditors (excluding provisions) amounted to CHF 3.3 million. The Company has obtained an irrevocable undertaking from NobleRock Capital sàrl, to provide financial support for an amount up to CHF 1 million until 30 June 2010 to settle the Company's obligations as they come due. The Company will also explore further funding opportunities during the year.  


Other corporate developments during the year 2008

On 12 February 2008, the Company announced the completion of the sale of 2,505,860 ordinary shares of CHF 2.10 to NobleRock Capital sàrl (formerly Belvia sàrl .) , a Luxembourg company, representing 51.96 per cent of the issued share capital of the Company. Following a meeting of the Board of Directors, both Mr. Yossi Moldawsky, Executive Chairman, and Mr. Dov Lachovitz, Chief Executive Officer, resigned from the Board with immediate effect. Mr. Yair Hasson and Mr. Roberto Avondo were appointed immediately to the Board as Executive Chairman and Executive Vice Chairman respectively. On 2 June 2008, Mr. Amir Hasson was appointed executive director and Messrs Bruce Vandenberg and Simon Bentley were appointed as non-executive directors. 

Trading Outlook

Despite the current circumstance and the general economic environment, the Directors are confident about the mid and long term prospects for the Company.


The key strengths of the business are:

  • a distinctive product brand;

  • an emphasis on consistently high quality product as a result of stringent selection of high quality ingredients;

  • an emphasis on speedy delivery and service to customers;

  • staff training, exacting brand standards and the use of standardised processes;

  • a loyal customer base;

  • a market leading position;

  • a cash generative business model at the operational level; and 

  • a business model that provides opportunities to roll-out further new stores at a low investment cost. 


The effect of the economic recession on the Company remains uncertain, but Management is confident that its value for money products and quality service will sustain demand.


Business expansion through new stores will be constrained by funding available to the Company and the willingness of Swiss banks to offer corporate loan facilities. However, we believe in the strength of Domino's brand and the soundness of the business model. On this basis, in close cooperation with NobleRock Capital sàrl, we will continue to seek and explore opportunities to develop new stores and curb overheads in order to bring the Company on to a profitable track in the foreseeable future.


Finally, I would like to thank my co-directors and our staff for their valuable contribution and dedication during this difficult period. 


12 June 2009


Roberto Avondo    

Vice Chairman


DIRECTORS' REPORT

The Directors are pleased to submit their annual management report and audited financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2008.

For the purpose of filing with AIM, financial statements have been prepared and presented using International Financial Reporting Standards ('IFRS'). Statutory annual accounts presented in accordance with Luxembourg law are also drawn up and these are available at the registered office and the Registrar of Commerce and Societies in Luxembourg. The statutory annual accounts are presented in accordance with Luxembourg law which has adopted the EEC Fourth Directive on the presentation and content of annual accounts and are drawn up in accordance with Luxembourg generally accepted accounting policies. The principal differences between IFRS financial statements and Luxembourg statutory annual accounts are:

  • IFRS permits the recognition of a deferred tax asset in respect of expected foreseeable benefits arising from tax losses. Luxembourg law does not allow the recognition of unrealised earnings. 

  • pre-opening costs are charged directly to profit and loss account under IFRS, but they may be amortized over 5 years under Luxembourg law. 

  • prior year adjustments are charged to equity under IFRS, but are taken to extraordinary charges/ income under Luxembourg law.


Principal activity

Global Brands S.A. ('Global Brands' or the 'Company') is the exclusive master franchisee of Domino's Pizza in Switzerland, Luxembourg and Liechtenstein. 


Domino's Pizza Inc. ('Domino's') was founded in the United States of America in 1960 and is the world's leading pizza delivery brand with over 8,500 stores in more than 50 countries. 

The Company's registered office is in Luxembourg but trading is carried out through its main branch in Zurich.

A review of the business is contained in the Vice Chairman's statement.

Going Concern

At 31 December 2008 current liabilities, including provisions, of the Company exceeded its current assets by CHF 2,169.8K. Major shareholder NobleRock Capital sàrl has given an irrevocable undertaking to provide to provide financial support for an amount up to CHF 1 million until 30 June 2010 to settle the Company's obligations as they come due. The Company will also explore further funding opportunities during the year.


On this basis, the directors consider it is appropriate to draw up financial statements on a going concern basis for the foreseeable future.

Business and financial risk management

Information on business and financial risk management is given in note 25 of the accompanying financial statements.

Capital investments in the business

Investments in new stores, equipment and vehicles were made for CHF 492.4K, financed partly by finance lease contracts.

The store in Renens has been reclassified as a freehold property in the balance sheet at 31st December 2008. The rate of depreciation has been amended accordingly.


Details of intangible and tangible assets are set out in notes 13 and 14 of these financial statements.

Deferred tax asset

Having regard to the 2008 loss, the Directors have decided to write down the deferred tax asset of CHF 1,136K which was built up during the years 2005 to 2007 and recorded in the IFRS balance sheet as a deferred tax asset. The Directors have decided to carry forward deferred tax assets of CHF 640K for 2008 representing 25% of the pre tax losses for 2008.  

The net effect is a charge to the profit and loss of CHF 495.8K

Post year end events

Other than as noted in the Vice Chairman's report, there are no material events since the year end that would affect the Company's financial position as established at 31st December 2008. We believe in the strength of Domino's brand and the soundness of the business model. On this basis, in close cooperation with NobleRock Capital sàrl, we continue to seek and explore opportunities to develop new stores, grow operating margins and curb overheads in order to bring the Company on to a profitable track in the foreseeable future.


Directors

The members of the Board of Directors during the year ended 31st December 2008 are:



Appointed

  

Robert Avondo  

Executive Vice Chairman

12.02.2008


Bruce Vandenberg   

Non Executive Director

02.06.2008


Simon Bentley  

Non Executive Director

02.06.2008


Yair Hasson     

Executive Chairman

12.02.2008

  Dismissed on 14.05 2009

Amir Hasson

Chief Executive Officer

02.06.2008

  Dismissed on 14.05 2009





Resignations in connection with reorganisation of the Board of Directors of February 2008

Yossi Moldawsky 



  Resigned on 12.02.2008

Dov Lachovitz 



  Resigned on 12.02.2008

Christopher Bodker 



  Resigned on 06.03.2008

Amir Raveh 



  Resigned on 02.06.2008

Matei Lecca  



  Resigned on 30.09.2008





Director's interests




Mr Yair Hasson has declared that he holds 225,362 shares (4.67%) of the Company's shares. These shares are held through OMX Securities Nominees Ltd.  In addition, the shares are charged to the Israel Discount Bank as security to support credit facilities granted to Mr Yair Hasson.  

Share option scheme



In order to assist in the retention and motivation of directors and employees, the shareholders of the Company approved a Share Option Plan. Under the Share Option Plan, the Company may grant options up to 10% of its issued share capital from time to time. The Company had issued options exercisable into new Ordinary Shares to former directors as follows which expire in the years 2015-2016.

  


Number of options in circulation


2008

2007

  Exercise Price


388,812

388,812

£1.85



48,229

48,229

£1.15



21,411

21,411 

 0.90p 


No share options have been exercised. 

Shareholders

Since February 2008 the Company is controlled by NobleRock Capital sàrl ., a Luxembourg company, which holds 51.96% of the Company's issued shares. The ultimate beneficial owner of NobleRock Capital sàrl is Mr. Alexandre Gaydamak. 

The following persons and companies had an interest of 3% or more in the issued share capital of the Company at 13th May 2009:


 % of issued share capital


NobleRock Capital sàrl 

51.96%


Peter O'Reilly 

13.9%


Yossi Moldawsky

6.97%


Yair Hasson

4.67%


Euroclear Nominees Ltd

3.84%


Barclayshare Nominees Ltd

3.79%



Corporate Governance

The Directors acknowledge their responsibility for good corporate governance as set out in the Combined Code and support its main provisions in so far as they are appropriate to a company of the size of Global Brands at its stage of development.

Directors

The Directors recognise their duty of due care in the management and administration of the Company. The Board comprised of five Directors as at 31 December 2008 and currently comprises three Directors. Other Directors, including a CEO, will be appointed in due course. 


The role of the Board is to determine the Company's strategy and monitor performance and achievement of its business objectives. The Board meets at least four times a year for these purposes and holds additional meetings when necessary to transact other business. The Board receives reports for consideration on all significant strategic and operational matters.

The independent non-executive Director is considered by the Board to be independent of Management and free from any business or other relationship, which could materially interfere with the exercise of his independent judgment. Directors have the facility to take external independent advice in furtherance of their duties at the Company's expense.

The Board delegates certain of its responsibilities to the Audit and Remuneration Committees of the Board. These Committees operate within clearly defined terms of reference.

Accountability and Audit

1. Directors' Responsibilities

The Directors are required to prepare financial statements, which give a true and fair view of the state of the Company's financial position as at the end of the period and of the Company's profit/loss for the year. The Directors have responsibility for ensuring that proper accounting records are kept which disclose with reasonable accuracy the financial position of the Company. They have a duty of care and general responsibility to implement internal controls to safeguard the assets of the Company and to prevent and detect fraud and other irregularities.

Appropriate accounting policies, which follow generally accepted accounting practices, are set out the notes to the accounts, and these have been applied consistently. In addition reasonable and prudent judgments and estimates have been used in the preparation of the financial statements.

2. Audit Committee and Auditors

The Audit Committee, assists the Board in meeting its responsibilities in respect of external financial reporting and internal controls. The Audit Committee also keeps under review the scope and results of the external audit. It also considers the cost effectiveness, independence and objectivity of the auditors taking account of any non-audit services provided by them.

3. Remuneration Committee

The Remuneration Committee comprises the non-executive Directors. It meets at least twice a year and has a primary responsibility to review the performance of executive directors and senior employees and set the scale and structure of their remuneration having due regard to the interests of shareholders.

4. Internal Controls

The Directors are responsible for maintaining a sound and effective system of internal financial and operational controls. Although no system of internal control can provide absolute assurance against material misstatement or loss, the Company's system is designed to provide reasonable assurance that significant errors and irregularities are identified on a timely basis and dealt with appropriately.


In carrying out their responsibility, the Directors have put in place a framework of financial budgetary controls to ensure as far as possible that ongoing financial performance is monitored in a timely manner, that corrective action is taken and that risk is identified as early as practically possible.

The Board, subject to delegated authority, reviews capital investment, sales and purchases, additional borrowing facilities, guarantees and insurance arrangements.

Corporate Social Responsibility

The Company is committed to delivering the highest standards of product and service to its customers. We make every effort to be an equal opportunities employer and are committed to investing in our team members through market-leading remuneration, training and development and health and safety.

Appropriation of results in the statutory accounts

In order to maintain a consistency between the IFRS accounts and Luxembourg statutory annual accounts, the Board proposes to transfer CHF 2,388,965 of the losses to the share premium account in the Luxembourg statutory accounts. This internal transfer has no effect on shareholder's equity as stated under IFRS and Luxembourg GAAP.

Auditors

The re-appointment of PKF ABAX Audit Luxembourg as independent auditors will be proposed at the forthcoming Annual Meeting. Their report on these financial statements is included in this Annual Report. 

Annual General Meeting


In accordance with article 17.1 of the Company's articles of incorporation, the Annual General Meeting is to be held on 1st June each year. This would have been on Monday, 1st June 2009. In light of the investigation into the management of the Company's affairs, the Annual General Meeting was postponed for a period of four weeks. The convening notice to shareholders will be sent to registered shareholders at least two weeks before the meeting.


On behalf of the Board 

12 June 2009


Roberto Avondo                 Bruce Vandenberg

 STATEMENT OF INCOME






(Expressed in Swiss francs)


2008

 

2007


Notes

CHF 


CHF 

Revenue from sales

6

11,692,653


10,932,589

Cost of sales

 

(2,799,448)

 

(2,414,487)

Gross profit


8,893,205


8,518,102

Staff costs

8

(7,129,173)


(5,897,459)

Administrative expenses

9

(3,712,295)

 

(3,097,439)

Loss from operations before depreciation & amortisation

(1,948,263)


(476,796)

Depreciation and amortisation

13 & 14

(692,238)

 

(1,045,502)

Loss  from operations before financial result

(2,640,501)


(1,522,298)

Interest and financial income 

10

84,482


106,939

Interest and financial charges

11

(7,238)

 

(67,457)

Loss on ordinary activities

6

(2,563,257)


(1,482,816)

Charges in relation with extension of the business


-


(99,627)

Provisions for charges

22

-


( 824,732)

Write down in value of deferred tax asset

16

(495,804)


-

Deferred tax credit

16

-


403,618

Loss for the year

 

(3,059,061)

 

(2,003,557)






Basic earnings / (loss) per share

7

(0.63)


(0.42)


The accompanying notes 1 to 28 form an integral part of these financial statements.


  BALANCE SHEET

 (Expressed in Swiss francs)


2008

 

2007


Notes

CHF 


CHF 

ASSETS


 


 

Non-current assets





Intangible assets

13

140,108


174,327

Property, plant and equipment

14

2,231,900


2,394,670

Financial assets

15

304,837


145,171

Deferred tax asset

16

640,814


1,136,618

Total non-current assets

 

3,317,659

 

3,850,786






Current assets





Stocks

17

245,354


227,748

Trade and other receivables

18

113,051


150,760

Cash at banks and in hand


1,624,992


2,775,455

Total current assets

 

1,983,397

 

3,153,963

Total assets

 


5,301,056

 

7,004,749






EQUITY AND LIABILITIES





Capital and reserves





Called up share capital

19

10,128,006


10,128,006

Share premium

19

1,959,535


1,959,535

Accumulated losses


(10,987,796)


(7,928,735)

Shareholders' equity 


1,099,745

 

4,158,806

 


 




Non-current liabilities





Obligations under finance leases

20

48,137


15,257

Total non-current liabilities


48,137

 

15,257






Current liabilities





Trade and other payables

21

3,311,865


1,870,174

Provisions for other liabilities and charges

22

801,863


914,732

Obligations under finance leases

20

39,446


45,780

Total current liabilities


4,153,174

 

2,830,686






Total equity and liabilities

 

5,301,056

 

7,004,749






The accompanying notes 1 to 28 form an integral part of these financial statements.



 STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

(Expressed in Swiss francs)


2008


2007


Notes

CHF 


CHF 

OPERATING ACTIVITIES 


 


 

Net cash flows applied to operations activities before movements in working capital

27

(1,890,782)

 

(641,465)

Decrease/(increase) in stocks


(17,606)


(12,774)

Decrease/(increase) in trade and other receivables


37,709


(25,905)

Increase/(decrease) in creditors and provisions


1,328,822


(403,456)

Net cash flows applied to operations


(541,857)


(1,083,600)

INVESTING ACTIVITIES 





Payments to acquire fixtures, equipment motor vehicles and software


(423,223)


(500,656)

Interest received


(159,666)


106 939

Deposits (made) repaid


24,629


(50,856)

Net cash flows (outflows) from investing activities 


(558,260)

 

(444,573)

FINANCING ACTIVITIES 





Payments under finance lease obligations


(45,480)


(52,771)

Interest paid 


(4,866)


(2,415)

Net cash flows ( outflows) from financing activities


(50,346)

 

(55,186)

Increase ( decrease) in cash & cash equivalents during the year


(1,150,463)

 

(1,583,359)

Cash and cash equivalents:





 - balance at beginning of the year


2,775,455


4,358,814

 - balance at end of the year


1,624,992


2,775,455

Increase ( decrease) in cash & cash equivalents during the year


(1,150,463)

 

(1,583,359)






Cash and cash equivalents are represented by :





Cash at banks and in hand


1,624,992


2,775,455

Due to banks 


   -  


   -  

Net cash and cash equivalents at end of the year


1,624,992

 

   2,775,455


STATEMENT OF MOVEMENTS IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY


Called up share capital

Share premium

Accumulated losses

Total

(Expressed in Swiss francs)

CHF 

CHF 

CHF 

CHF 

Balance at 31st December 2006

10,128,006

1,959,535

(5,925,178)

6,162,363

Loss for the year 31st December 2007

-

-

(2,003,557)

(2,003,557)

Balance at 31st December 2007

10,128,006

1,959,535

(7,928,735)

4,158,806

Loss for the year 31st December 2008

-

-

(3,059,061)

(3,059,061)

Balance at 31st December 2008

10,128,006

1,959,535

(10,987,796)

1,099,745








  NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1

Statutory information





Global Brands S.A. (the ' Company') was incorporated under the laws of Luxembourg on 6th July, 1999 by notary act prepared by Maitre Alex Weber, notary residing in Luxembourg. The act was published in the legal gazette, the Mémorial C N° 723 of 29th September 1999. The Company is registered under number B 70673 at the Register of Commerce and Societies in Luxembourg (Registre de Commerce et des Sociétés (R.C.S.)) The registered office is in Luxembourg. A branch has been opened in Switzerland where it carries on its principal trading activity. 

2

Activities





The Company has acquired the Domino's franchise licences, concessions and rights for Switzerland, Lichtenstein and Luxembourg. Its current activities consist of the promotion, manufacture and sale of Domino's Pizza.

3

Directors' responsibility





The annual report and financial statements drawn up under IFRS were approved by the Board of Directors on 10th June 2009. The IFRS financial statements may be changed only by the Board of Directors and are not subject to approval by shareholders. 


The statutory annual accounts for the year ended 31st December 2008 are drawn up in accordance with Luxembourg law and they will be submitted to shareholders for approval at the annual general meeting. Statutory annual accounts for the year ended 31st December 2007 have been approved by shareholders and have been filed at the R.C.S. in Luxembourg.

4

Basis of preparation 





These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ('IFRS') under the historical cost convention using accounting policies on a basis consistent with those adopted for the prior year, and on a going concern basis. The IFRS financial statements differ from the statutory accounts as follows:


  • IFRS permits the recognition of a deferred tax asset in respect of expected foreseeable benefits arising from tax losses. Luxembourg law does not allow the recognition of unrealised income. 

  • IFRS permits that capital issue costs are charged against the share premium account, whereas under Luxembourg law they are charged to the Income Statement, either fully or amortised over a maximum period of five years.

  • pre-opening costs of stores are charged directly to profit and loss account under IFRS, but they may be amortized over 5 years under Luxembourg law. 

  • prior year adjustments are charged to equity under IFRS, but are taken to extraordinary charges/ income under Luxembourg law.


The financial statements are stated in Swiss Francs ('CHF') which is the currency of the issued share capital of the Company and the Company's functional currency.

Comparative figures 

In instances where reclassification of amounts has been made, comparative figures of the previous year have been modified to provide a comparable basis. These reclassifications have no effect on the results and net equity.


Going concern





The Company's current liabilities and provisions for charges exceed it current assets by CHF 2.1 million which indicates that the Company may not be able to continue as a going concern. The Company's major shareholder, NobleRock Capital sàrl has given an irrevocable undertaking to provide to provide financial support for an amount up to CHF 1 million until 30 June 2010 to settle the Company's obligations as they come due. . Accordingly these financial statements have been prepared on the basis that the Company will continue as a going concern for the foreseeable future. In the event that financial support is discontinued and the Company is placed into dissolution, further adjustments would be required to provide for charges to wind up the Company's affairs and to restate the value of assets to their net realisable value.


Use of estimates 





Accounting estimates and assumptions are used in the preparation of these financial statements, notably in respect of depreciation and amortisation of fixed assets, provisions for uncollectible amounts, valuation of stocks and provisions for charges. These estimates are based on the directors' best knowledge of current events and actions, although actual results may ultimately differ from those estimates. 

5

Summary of significant accounting policies 


Revenue recognition



Sales revenue is the amount receivable by the Company for goods supplied and services provided after deducting sales taxes and discounts. Revenue is recognised when goods are delivered and title has passed.


Interest income is accrued on a time basis by reference to the principal outstanding and the interest rate applied.



Property, plant and equipment



Items of property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Depreciation is calculated to write down the cost less estimated residual value of all property, plant and equipment by equal annual instalments over their expected useful lives. Land is not depreciated.  


The expected useful lives generally applicable are:


  Freehold buildings : 50 years 


  Fixtures, fittings and stores equipment: 6 to 10 years, or over the life of the store lease. 


  Furniture and office equipment: 3 to 4 years.


  Motor vehicles: 3 to 7 years.


Fixtures, fittings and stores equipment are depreciated initially over the primary life of the lease , normally 5 to 6 years. In the event that leases are renewed and extended, depreciation is re-calculated over the extended period of the lease.


Leased assets


Leases are classified as finance leases when the terms of the lease transfer substantially the economic ownership of the asset to the lessee. Assets held under finance leases and hire purchase contracts are capitalised in the balance sheet and depreciated over their expected useful lives. They are capitalised at their fair value at the date of acquisition, or if lower, at the present value of the minimum lease payments. The interest element of leasing payments representing a constant proportion of the capital balance outstanding is charged to the profit and loss account over the period of the lease.


All other leases are regarded as operating leases and the payments made under them are charged to the profit and loss account on a straight line basis over the term of the lease.


Intangible assets


Intangible assets acquired are stated at cost less accumulated amortisation and impairment losses. 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.


Amortisation is charged on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful economic life and charged from the date the asset is available for use. The useful lives are estimated as follows:


  Licences: 15 years, being the period of the operating franchise licence


  Software: 2 to 3 years


The carrying values are reviewed at each balance sheet date to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount is estimated. An impairment loss is recognised whenever the carrying value of the asset or its cash-generating unit exceeds its recoverable amount. Impairment losses are charged to the income statement

Financial assets 



Financial assets representing guarantee bank deposits are stated at fair values.



Deferred taxation





Deferred tax payable is provided using the liability method on temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the financial information tables. The principal temporary differences arise from depreciation of property, plant and equipment, tax losses carried forward and on the difference between the fair values of the net assets acquired and their tax base. 

Deferred tax is provided for using the tax rates estimated to arise when the timing differences reverse and is accounted for to the extent that it is probable that a liability or asset will crystallise. Non-provided deferred tax is disclosed as a contingent liability. 

A deferred tax asset is recognised to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be sufficient and available against which the existing tax losses can be utilised. Deferred tax assets are reviewed at each balance sheet date to determine the expected timing of their realisation and whether there is an impairment in their book carrying value.



Stocks





Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value, after making allowance for obsolete and slow moving items. Cost of raw materials, finished goods and consumables comprises the invoiced value of the goods.



Debtors and receivables


Debtors and receivables are stated at their nominal value, less provision for estimated irrecoverable amounts.



Financial instruments





The Company's financial instruments consist of long term bank deposits, cash, bank current accounts, short term bank deposits, trade receivables, other receivables, accrued income, trade payables, obligations under finance lease contracts, loans, other accounts payable and accrued liabilities. The fair value of the financial instruments approximates their carrying values.



Foreign currency


Transactions in foreign currencies are translated at the exchange rate ruling at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities in foreign currencies are translated at the rates of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. Any gain or loss arising from a change in exchange rates subsequent to the date of the transaction is included as an exchange gain or loss in the profit and loss account.


Cash and cash equivalents


Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, balances with banks and short term deposits with original maturities of three months or less. Bank guarantee deposits are considered to be investing activities; bank borrowings are considered to be financing activities. The balances represent their fair value. Short term bank overdrafts are obtained to meet working capital needs.


Trade payables



Trade payables are stated at their nominal amounts.


Borrowings


Loans and bank overdrafts are recorded at the proceeds amount. Interest and financial charges, including premiums payable on repayment, are accounted for on an accrual basis and are added to the amount of the debt.


Interest expense is accrued on a time basis by reference to the principal outstanding and the interest rate applied.



The Company makes contributions to the government pension plans. Contributions are charged to the profit and loss account. The Company does not operate a defined pension contribution scheme or defined pension benefit scheme for its employees and directors


6

Revenues and results 


Business segment


Turnover, operations, profits and net assets are attributable entirely to continuing activities from its single business segment of selling pizzas. The Company's turnover and trading results arise entirely in Switzerland


Geographical segment:


Turnover and results are attributable primarily to Switzerland. There are no trading revenues in Luxembourg.


The loss on ordinary activities before taxation is stated after charging or crediting:



2008


2007



CHF


CHF


Depreciation of:





    -property, plant and equipment owned

547,516


921,384


    -property, plant and equipment held under finance leases

107,857


79,531


Amortisation of intangible fixed assets

36,865


44,588


Included in administration expenses are:





  - operating lease rental charges

462,058


396,968


  - auditors' remuneration - audit services

38,590


42,900


Foreign currency gain (loss )  

56,868


(42,848)






7

 Earnings (loss) per share (EPS)





The calculation of the basic earnings per share is determined on the loss attributable to ordinary shareholders divided by the weighted average number of shares in issue during the year. The elements used in the calculation are:



2008


2007


Number of issued shares of CHF 2.10 each

4,822,860


4,822,860


The weighted average number of shares in circulation during the year was :

4,822,860


4,822,860


 

CHF


CHF


Loss for the year

(3,059,061)


(2,003,557)


Basic earnings (loss) per share

(0.63)


(0.42)


The directors consider that there is no dilutive effect of 458,452 share options issued because the fair price of the shares is substantially lower than the exercise price so that it is most improbable that the options would be exercised in the foreseeable future at their exercise price of £ 1.85, £1.15 and £0.90.


8

Staff costs

2008


2007



CHF


CHF


Wages and salaries

5,642,275


4,735,545


Social security and state pension costs

531,066


475,142


Fees and costs of the Board of Directors

929,234


625,692


Other staff costs

26,599


61,080



7,129,173


5,897,459





CHF


CHF


Salaries and fees of directors and of companies under their control amounted to:

873,560


625,692




Remuneration to key members of management amounted to:

393,830


320,829


Social security costs comprise the Company's legal obligations to contribute to the Swiss State national health and pension funds and private pension plans of certain employeesThere is no Company private pension scheme in force for the directors.


The average number of employees by category was:



Production and sales distribution

217


248


Administration

5


5



222


  253






9

Administrative expenses

2008


2007



CHF


CHF


Marketing costs and royalties

980,165


1,051,558


Administration and general expenses

2,732,130


2,045,881



3,712,295


3,097,439






  

10

Interest and financial income

2008


2007



CHF


CHF


Interest income

27,614


106,939


Foreign currency gains

56,868


  -



84,482


106,939






11

Interest and financial charges

2008


2007



CHF


CHF


Finance lease interest

4,866


2,415


Foreign currency losses 

-


42,848


Other financial charges

2,371


22,194



7,238


67,457


12

Income tax expense






The Company is fully taxable in Luxembourg and Switzerland on profits realised from its operations. There were no taxable profits attributable to Switzerland and Luxembourg during the years 2008 and 2007 There is no taxation charge in Switzerland because the Company has incurred tax losses and no tax charge in Luxembourg because the Company has tax losses brought forward from previous years.  


There were no taxable profits attributable to Luxembourg during the above years.



2008

 

2007


The tax charge is determined as follows:

CHF


CHF


Pre tax loss for the year before tax

(2,563,257)

 

(2,003,557)


Swiss tax rate

25%


25%


Expected tax charge for the year:

-


-


The effective tax rates on profits are:


 



Luxembourg

29.63%

 

29.63%


Switzerland

25.00%

 

25.00%


13

Intangible fixed assets

At cost, in thousands of Swiss Francs


Software

Licences

Total

Year 2008


CHF

CHF

CHF

Gross carrying amount at cost at 01/01/2008


99.5

354.0

453.5

Additions 


2.0

-

2.0

Gross carrying amount at 31/12/2008


101.5

353.9

455.5

Accumulated amortisation brought forward


(88.0)

(191.1)

(279.1)

Amortisation charge for the year 


(11.8)

(24.5)

(36.3)


Net book value at 31/12/2008


1.7

138.4

140.1






Year 2007 : 





Gross carrying amount at cost at 01/01/2007


91.3

353.9

445.2

Additions 


8.2

-

8.2

Gross carrying amount at 31/12/2007


99.5

353.9

453.4

Accumulated amortisation brought forward


(67.9)

(166.6)

(234.5)

Amortisation charge for the year 


(20.1)

(24.5)

(44.6)


Net book value at 31/12/2007


11.5

162.8

174.3






Licences include an initial payment of CHF 328,901 to acquire the operating franchise licence ''Dominos Pizza'' for a period of 15 years in LuxembourgLiechtenstein and Switzerland. At 31st December 2008, the licence expires in the year 2014 and is subject to renewal.

  

14

Property, plant and equipment


At cost, in thousands of Swiss Francs

Land and buildings

Store fixtures,fittings & equipment

Office furniture & equipment

Motor vehicles

Total

Year 2008

CHF

CHF

CHF

CHF

CHF

Gross carrying amount at cost at 01/01/2008

-

4,075.6

376.6

824.0

5,276.2

Reclassification

254.4

(254.4)

-

-

-

Additions 

-

406.9

13.4

72.1

492.4

Reduction 

-

-

-

(102.7)

(102.7)

Gross carrying amount at 31/12/2008

254.4

4,228.1

390.0

793.4

5,665.9

Less accumulated depreciation

-

(1,996.1)

(290.4)

(595.0)

(2,881.5)

 - brought forward

 - depreciation charge for the year 

(4.6)

(418.4)

(62.2)

(170.0)

(655.2)

 - disposals depreciation 

-

-

-

102.7

102.7


249.8

1,813.6

37.4

131.1

2,231.9

Net book value at 31/12/2008

Year 2007






Gross carrying amount at cost at 01/01/2007

-

3,707.1

337.5

739.2

4,783.8

Additions 

-

368.5

39.1

84.8

492.4

Gross carrying amount at 31/12/2007

-

4,075.6

376.6

824.0

5,276.2

Less accumulated depreciation

-

(1,204.7)

(229.7)

(446.2)

(1,880.6)

  - brought forward

  -depreciation charge for the year 

-

(791.4)

(60.7)

(148.8)

(1,000.9)


-

2,079.5

86.2

229.0

2,394.7

Net book value at 31/12/2007


Reclassification: The investment in the store in Renens has been reclassified as land and buildings since the Company holds freehold title. The respective depreciation of the building for the year 2008 has been modified to 2% per annum.


The depreciation charge figure for fixtures, fittings & store equipment includes an exceptional impairment charge of CHF 367,137 in 2007 in respect of write-off of installations relating to the closing of the stores in Luzern and Biel.

The net carrying amount of assets held under finance leases amounted to:

2008


2007



CHF


CHF

Equipment

54,313


73,359

Motor vehicles

88,347


92,588

Total

142,660


165,947


15

Financial assets

2008


2007



CHF


CHF


Bank guarantee deposits

304,837


145,171



Deposits are made with the Company's bankers as guarantees for lease of premises, stores and vehicles. They are stated at fair values.


16

Deferred tax asset

2008


2007



CHF


CHF


Balance at beginning of year

1,136,618


733,000


Deferred tax credit (charge) for the year

-


403,618


Write down in value of deferred tax asset

(495,804)


-


Balance at end of year

640,814


1,136,618


The Directors have resolved to reduce the value of the deferred tax asset created in prior years and to carry forward the pre tax loss of the year 2008 against future available profits. 

Luxembourg tax losses incurred in respect of Luxembourg operations have not been used to constitute a deferred tax asset since it is uncertain when those losses may be utilised.




2008


2007


The deferred tax was determined as follows:

CHF


CHF


Swiss tax losses to set off against future profits :

2,563,257


4,546,472


Deferred tax asset on Swiss tax losses at a tax rate of 25%

640,814


1,136,618



Final tax assessments of the Swiss branch are outstanding. Final tax assessments have been

 received for Luxembourg to the year 2005. Tax losses in Luxembourg may be carried forward indefinitely. 






17

Stocks

2008


2007



CHF


CHF


Raw materials - foods and beverages

150,334


146,302


Other consumables

95,020


81,446



245,354


227,748


All stocks are stated at cost which approximates their fair values. Provision is made for write down in value.






18

Trade and other receivables

2008


2007


Amounts falling due within one year:

CHF


CHF


Trade debtors

7,000


50,144


Other debtors, prepayments and accrued income

106,051


100,616



113,051


150,760

  

19

Capital and reserves

2008


2007


Share capital

CHF


CHF


Allotted, issued and fully paid up

10,128,006


10,128,006


Represented by 4,822,860 shares of CHF 2.10 each


The Company has one class of share which carries equal voting rights and rights to distributions of dividends from available retained earnings.

Stock option plan





On 1st August 2005, the general meeting of shareholders of the Company approved a stock option plan

for the benefit of the directors and key employees. At 31st December 2008 and 2007 there were in circulation 388,812 options at £1.85, 48,299 options at £1.15 and 21,411 options at £0.90.  



2008


2007


Share premium 

CHF


CHF


Premium on issue of new shares

4,348,500


4,348,500


Less charges of raising finance

(2,388,965)


(2,388,965)


Share premium balance at end of year

1,959,535


1,959,535


Legal reserve





The Company is obliged to make a transfer of at least 5% of its annual net profits to a legal reserve. Retained losses are deducted in determining the amount of the annual transfer. This transfer ceases when the legal reserve is equal to 10% of the subscribed share capital, but recommences if it falls below this level. The legal reserve is not available for distribution, except on dissolution. A legal reserve is not required since the Company has accumulated losses.


20

Non-current liabilities

2008


2007



CHF


CHF


Obligations under finance leases and hire purchase contracts

48,137


15,257


Obligations under finance leases in respect of equipment and vehicles are for periods of two to five years and are recorded as liabilities in the balance sheet. The lease contracts bear interest at rates of between 5% and 5.7% and are repayable in fixed monthly instalments of principal capital and interest over the period of the lease. In the event that lease obligations are not fulfilled, the lessor has a right to recover the asset.



The leases to which these amounts relate expire as follows:

2008


2007



CHF


CHF


In one year or less ( classified as a current liability)

39,446


45,780


Between one and five years ( classified as a non-current liability)

48,137


15,257


In five years or more (classified as a non-current liability)

-


-



87,583


61,037


Aggregate minimum lease payments due under the contracts inclusive of finance charges amount to:

87,583


61,037







The finance charges therein amount to 

4,866


   2,415

21

Trade and other payables  

2008


2007


Amounts falling due within one year

CHF


CHF


Trade creditors

2,091,494


1,135,534


Taxes and social security

391,266


135,533


Other creditors, accruals and deferred income

829,105


599,107



3,311,865


1,870,174


22

Provisions for other liabilities and charges 

2008


2007


Charged in the current year

CHF


CHF


Claims for compensation and benefits

726,863


804,732


Provisions for legal charges 

   75,000


110,000



801,863


914,732


During 2008 Management has discussed labour relations in the Company's sector of activity with Swiss union representatives. The discussions included topics surrounding compliance with regulatory requirements relating to minimal compensation and benefits due to employees. One of the purposes was to clarify the amounts that may have to be paid to employees in order to comply with regulatory requirements relating to minimal compensation and benefits that came into effect during the course of 2005. The outcome of these discussions is uncertain and the related retroactive financial effect, if any, cannot be determined yet with sufficient accuracy. In this respect, the Directors consider it prudent to maintain a provision of CHF 726,863 in these accounts at 31st December 2008 to cover any potential liability that may arise. An additional provision of CHF 75,000 is made to

cover other claims by former employees and directors.

23

Capital and contractual commitments 





Under a franchise agreement with Domino's Pizza International Inc. USA, the Company has a commitment to pay US$10,000 on the opening of every new store from the ninth store onwards. In addition the Company has to pay a royalty fee to Domino's Pizza International Incbased on its sales and is required to set aside a percentage of its sales revenue for advertising and marketing. 

Under contractual commitments, the Company is obligated to pay performance remuneration to directors which are conditional on the Company achieving performance targets.






24

Leasing commitments 





Operating leases 





The Company has commitments under several short-term and long-term operating leases in respect of its offices, stores and related parking. The offices and stores leases are for periods of 5 years, renewable, and with cancellation notice periods of six months before the expiry of the contract. In the event of cancellation before the expiry of the term of the lease, penalty cancellation charges are payable.



2008


2007



CHF


CHF


 Charge for operating leases for the year

462,058


396,968







The future minimum payments under these leases expire as follows:





In one year or less

309,777


396,191


Between one and five years

442,173


931,052


In five years or more 

93,690


334,850



845,640


1,662,093

  

25

Financial risk management





The Company's turnover is dependent on a single product, being the production and sale of pizzas. Company's licence for Domino's pizza is limited to SwitzerlandLiechtenstein and Luxembourg.

Sales are mainly carried out in cash or by credit card payments. Management has implemented controls to monitor the cash collections; exposure to credit risk is limited to the amount of trade receivables and receivables from card processing companies. The receivables are stated net of provisions for doubtful debts estimated by management based on collections and economic conditions. The Company is not dependent on key customers and has no significant risk associated to any one customer. The directors consider that the carrying values of trade and other receivables approximate their fair value.

Liquid funds assets are placed with regulated banks in Switzerland, in Luxembourg and Great Britain. The year end balances represent their fair value. Short term bank overdrafts are obtained to meet working capital needs.

26

Related parties 





As from February 2008 the Company is controlled by NobleRock Capital sàrl, a company incorporated under the laws of Luxembourg. Other than remuneration paid to directors for their daily management of the Company's affairs, there was no other transactions with related parties. 

27

Reconciliation of net cash flows from operating activities before movements in working capital





  2008


  2007



CHF


CHF


Loss on ordinary activities before taxation 

(3,059,061)

 

(2,003,557)


Adjustments for :





Depreciation and amortisation 

692,238


1,045,502


Deferred tax charge (credit)

495,804


(403,618)


Provisions for charges

-


824,732


Financial interest result 

(19,763)


(104,524)


Operating cash flows before movements in working capital 

(1,890,782)


(641,465)


  

28

Reconciliation of equity and results under IFRS to Luxembourg statutory annual accounts






2008


2007

Shareholders' equity

CHF


CHF

Equity under IFRS

1,099,745


4,158,806

less deferred tax asset

(640 814)


(1,136,618)

add establishment costs capitalised as an asset

-


342,240

Shareholders' equity per Luxembourg statutory accounts

458,931


3,364,428





Reconciliation of results 




Loss under IFRS

(3,059,061)


(2,003,557)

less deferred tax asset credit



(403,618)

Write down deferred tax asset

495,804


   -

Capitalisation of establishment costs

  -


99,627

less amortisation of establishment costs

(342,240)


(100,076)

Loss per Luxembourg statutory accounts

(2,905,497)


(2,427,549)


The differences in equity and results arise from the different treatment of deferred tax asset and pre-opening charges of stores.



This information is provided by RNS
The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
 
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