Sanderson is a publicly owned, UK provider of software solutions and IT services. We supply innovative, market-focused solutions primarily to the multi-channel retail and manufacturing sectors.

Highly experienced in the markets we serve, we forge long-term relationships with our customers. This allows us to consistently deliver real business benefit and help our clients achieve rapid return on their investment in IT.

Established in 1983, Sanderson has a multi-million pound turnover and track record of profitable growth. We employ around 150 people nationwide and continually invest in developing technology skills and business know-how.

We strive to be the best in our chosen fields and achieve market leadership through the quality of our products, people and services.
Sanderson is an established and profitable software and IT services business specialising in the multi-channel retail and manufacturing markets. Operating primarily in the UK and Ireland, the Group delivers solutions to organisations with turnovers typically between £5m and £250m. Sanderson maintains a strong market position due to the quality of its products and services and its successful track record.

The Group has a strong revenue model, with approximately 50% of revenue arising from recurring licence, support and maintenance contracts. A further 40% is derived from the existing customer base, with the balance represented by revenue from new customers.

Sanderson is a resilient business. The strength of the Group's large, well established customer base is expected to enable Sanderson to trade robustly in the current financial year, subject to general market conditions prevailing within the UK economy. Our focus on all aspects of multi-channel retail, including the active and growing online sales sector, provides a level of protection from the uncertain market conditions currently affecting retail.

The Sanderson business was founded in 1983 and grew organically and by acquisition to over £119m revenue. In December 2003, the original Sanderson Group was demerged into three separate, independent entities with the present Group retaining the Sanderson name and brand. Sanderson is a name widely recognised as an established provider of software and IT services.

The Group's industry knowledge, proven revenue model, track record and acquisition experience, gives Sanderson the confidence that it is well placed to deliver both organic and acquisition-led growth in the future


http://www.sanderson.com/

Sanderson a specialist in multi-channel retail and manufacturing markets in the Uk, may be off the radar of most investors, but is a profitable business and one that is exposed to high-growth segment of the software market: e-commerce and mobile devices. The company makes its money by offering customers software products and services that have a tangible benefit of reducing costs or improving the efficiency of their business. eg The company works in partnership with clients to deliver e-commerce softwaresystems that underpin their online operations and enable them to cross and upsell products, offer a '3D' secure payment process and intergrate online offerings with other parts of their business.
Its a fast growing segment of the retail market to be operating in, with IMRG Capgemini forecasting that the UK online sales will grow 13 per cent this year. There is also a large market to aim at.
Importantly, Sanderson has the cash available to invest and meet client demand.
The small-cap company is debt free having sold the company's electronic point-of-sale solutions business in January for £11.75m and has net funds of £3.6m at the end of March.
So with order intake strong, and the board recently noting that the business is '' trading ahead of expectations for the year to September '', we could be in for some upbeat trading news when the company releases a pre-close update in a few weeks time ahead of results in late November. One thing for sure analyst earnings estimates are in the bag, which signifcantly mitigates risk. Whats more, even without factoring in any upgrades, there is a strong case to be made that the shares are seriously undervalued.

Seem to be working for me these tips in the share mags.

Pre-Close Trading Update
RNS
RNS Number : 2687P
Sanderson Group PLC
23 October 2012











For Immediate Release 23 October 2012



SANDERSON GROUP PLC



Pre-close Trading Update



"Strong Trading Momentum Maintained"



Sanderson Group plc ('Sanderson' or 'The Group'), the software and IT services business specialising in multi-channel retail and manufacturing markets in the UK and Ireland, announces the following trading update ahead of the announcement of its preliminary results for the year ended 30th September 2012, due to be released on Tuesday, 27th November 2012.



Following the sale of Sanderson RBS in January 2012 for a cash consideration of £11.7million, the Group has concentrated on developing and further growing its businesses both in the expanding multi-channel retail and ecommerce markets, as well as, in selected manufacturing markets. Investment has focused upon developing new products and services, such as warehouse automation and increasingly, mobile applications, as well as upon strengthening the Group's sales and marketing capabilities. This investment strategy has contributed to an improved competitive market position resulting in an increase of over ten per cent in the Group's overall sales order intake for the financial year. The multi-channel business, with its online sales and ecommerce offerings, has achieved an increase in sales order intake of over 15% during the year.



The trading results for the year ended 30th September 2012, are slightly ahead of market forecasts and the Group's cash balance as at 30th September 2012 has further improved to £4million.



Notwithstanding the uncertain outlook for the general economy, the strong order book provides improved future visibility and gives the Board a good level of confidence that Sanderson will make further positive progress during the year ending 30th September 2013.





Ends

Sanderson's full year results to beat expectations
Tue 23 Oct 2012

SND - Sanderson Group

Latest Prices
Name Price %
Sanderson Group 46.50p -3.12%

Software & Computer Services 878 -1.42%

LONDON (SHARECAST) - Sanderson Group, a software and IT services business, failed to please investors on Tuesday, despite revealing that its trading results for the year ended September 30th 2012 were slightly ahead of market forecasts.

The firm also said that its cash balance at that date had improved to £4.0m.

The company altered its investment strategy somewhat earlier in the year and said this has "contributed to an improved competitive market position", resulting in an increase of over 10% in the group's overall sales order intake for the financial year. The multi-channel business, with its online sales and ecommerce offerings, has achieved an increase in sales order intake of over 15% during the year.

"Notwithstanding the uncertain outlook for the general economy, the strong order book provides improved future visibility and gives the board a good level of confidence that Sanderson will make further positive progress during the year ended September 30th 2013," the firm said.

Shares in Enterprise resource planning software specialist Sanderson should react well to upbeat full year results next week (27 Nov) . The Coventry -based £19million cap will report sales order growth over 10% for the 12 months to end of Sept . Chairman and near- 30% shareholder Chris Winn is also expected to tell the market order intake is getting stronger thanks to e-commerce initiatives. Sanderson has been investing in cloud services to meet the rapidly changing needs of retail and manufacturing industry customers, such as warehousing automation and a suite of mobile applications. Some of its £4 million cash pile is being put to work in the development of sales and marketing channels. Analysts at house broker Charles Stanley are expecting £1.7 million of taxable profits, for earnings per share of 3.8p

SANDERSON GROUP PLC

Preliminary Results for the Year Ended 30 September 2012Highlights - Financial (comparative figures restated to reflect Sanderson RBS disposal)

§ Revenues from continuing operations of £13.37m (2011: £14.06m)

§ 12% increase in operating profit from continuing operations, amounting to £1.91m (2011: £1.71m)

§ Basic earnings per share of 5.5p (2011: 1.9p)

§ Basic earnings per share from continuing operations of 3.0p (2011: 1.1p)

§ Net cash at year-end increased to £4.07m (2011: net debt of £6.72m)

§ Proposed final dividend per share of 0.7p per share (2011: 0.45p)

§ 60% increase in total dividend for year at 1.2p per share (2011: 0.75p)

Highlights - Operational

§ Sanderson now debt free following disposal of Sanderson RBS in January

§ Good trading momentum and strong order book continued in second-half

§ 40% increase in order book in respect of continuing operations at year end to £1.89m (2011: £1.35m)

§ Gross margins further improved to 83.6% (2011: 82.3%) reflecting delivery of more proprietary software and other 'owned' services

§ Pre-contracted recurring revenues from continuing operations of £7.7m accounted for 57% of total revenues (2011: £7.7m, 55% of total revenues)

§ 23% increase in multi-channel retail division operating profit to £1.1m (2011: £0.9m)

§ Manufacturing division sustained operating profit performance at £0.8m (2011: £0.8m)





http://www.moneyam.com/action/news/showArticle?id=4491983

A buy in this weeks IC. The shares trade in line with net assets and, stripping out the 9p a share of cash, they are rated on nine times expected earnings. With brokers anticipating decent earnings growth,thats to cheap.

Annual Financial Report
RNS
RNS Number : 4504T
Sanderson Group PLC
13 December 2012



SANDERSON GROUP PLC

("Sanderson" or the "Company")

Posting of Annual Accounts

Sanderson Group plc (AIM: SND), the software and IT services business specialising in multi-channel retail and manufacturing markets in the UK and Ireland, announces that its annual report and accounts for the year ended 30 September 2012 have been posted to shareholders. The annual report and accounts for the year ended 30 September 2012 have also been made available on the Company's website, www.sanderson.com.Financial
(comparative figures restated to reflect Sanderson RBS disposal)
¼¼Revenues from continuing operations of £13.37m (2011: £14.06m)
¼¼12% increase in operating profit from continuing operations, amounting to £1.91m (2011: £1.71m)
¼¼Basic earnings per share of 5.5p (2011: 1.9p)
¼¼Basic earnings per share from continuing operations of 3.0p (2011: 1.1p)
¼¼Net cash at year end increased to £4.07m (2011: net debt of £6.72m)
¼¼Proposed final dividend of 0.7p per share (2011: 0.45p)
¼¼60% increase in total dividend for year at 1.2p per share (2011: 0.75p)
Operational
¼¼Sanderson now debt free following disposal of Sanderson RBS in January
¼¼Good trading momentum and strong order book continued in second half
¼¼40% increase in order book in respect of continuing operations at year end to £1.89m
(2011: £1.35m)
¼¼Gross margins further improved to 83.6% (2011: 82.3%) reflecting delivery of more proprietary
software and other ‘owned’ services
¼¼Pre-contracted recurring revenues from continuing operations of £7.7m accounted for 57%
of total revenues (2011: £7.7m, 55% of total revenues)
¼¼22% increase in multi-channel retail division operating profit to £1.1m (2011: £0.9m)
¼¼Manufacturing division sustained operating profit performance at £0.8m (2011: £0.8m)

Sat there for a few hrs after news, now moving.

Debt free and sitting on cash and a strong order book. Good rise today

Another good rise. 7%

These looked to cheap, starting a correction now

Pleased I kept hold of these now.

On the move this afternoon.

Up just under 15% in 20 mins .

The company being an IC tip sent through today, hence the sudden buying and share price gain.

As of Mar 15, 2013, the consensus forecast amongst 3 polled investment analysts covering Sanderson Group plc advises investors to purchase equity in the company. This has been the consensus forecast since the sentiment of investment analysts improved on Nov 02, 2009. The previous consensus forecast advised investors to hold their position in Sanderson Group plc.

Sold my holding.

Not in this one, for those interested -


Pre-Close Trading Update

RNS


RNS Number : 5384D

Sanderson Group PLC

30 April 2013








FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 30TH APRIL 2013



SANDERSON GROUP PLC



Pre-close Trading Update



"Continuing Positive Momentum"



Sanderson Group plc ('Sanderson' or 'The Group'), the software and IT services business specialising in multi-channel retail and manufacturing markets in the UK and Ireland, announces the following trading update ahead of the announcement of its interim results for the six months ended 31st March 2013, which are scheduled for release on Wednesday 5th June, 2013.



For the six month period to 31st March ('the period'), the trading results will show revenue growing to almost £6.4 million and profit from operating activities growing by over 10% to around £0.9 million compared with the first six months of the previous year to 31st March 2012 ('last year'). Reflecting a sales mix which includes more Sanderson owned proprietary products and services, gross margins improved to almost 88% compared with 85% 'last year' and 82% in the previous year. During 'the period', pre-contracted recurring revenues rose to £3.96million, representing just over 60% of total revenues. Whilst order intake during the first half has been slower than 'last year', the order book remains strong and sales prospects, going into the second half year, are very good.



Since the year end, Sanderson has not detected any noticeable improvement in general UK economic trading conditions which remain challenging. Uncertainty surrounding the economy affects the confidence of our customers and of prospective customers in making investment decisions. General manufacturing and traditional mail order fulfilment markets remain sluggish, but there are better levels of business activity in the wholesale cash and carry, catalogue, online sales and e-commerce markets. Sanderson also has an established and good presence in the active and growing food manufacturing market where activity levels are high.



Sanderson is continuing to invest in its products and services as well as to innovate with new solutions, especially those deploying mobile technologies, in response to and in anticipation of customer demand. A major furniture manufacturer with retail outlets has implemented the Sanderson mobile sales solution across its stores nationwide. The solution runs on iPads and the touchscreens integrate with the Sanderson Unity Enterprise System, enabling orders to be configured exactly for the customer 'on the spot' and then instantly forwarded to the production department from the showroom, improving efficiency, delivery times and customer service. Order intake for mobile solutions is currently accounting for around 10% of all new business and this percentage is expected to increase further in the future.



Sanderson has a strong balance sheet, is debt-free and continues to convert profit to cash at around 100% with the cash balance at the end of March being £4.5million (31st March 2012: £3.5million). At the AGM, in February, an announcement was made that Sanderson will pay a 1.5p dividend for the coming year. This represents an increase of 25% from 'last year' and a doubling over the last two years. It is expected that the first payment will be a 0.65p interim dividend, payable in August 2013 (August 2012 interim dividend: 0.5p).



The strategy of the Sanderson Board is to achieve growth, both organically as well as by selective, complementary and low risk acquisitions which become earnings and value enhancing. A number of small opportunities continue to be considered. The Board is, however, mindful of the relatively low levels of business confidence and tough UK trading conditions and so continues to adopt a very cautious approach and intends to maintain a strong balance sheet. The strong balance sheet and robust business model coupled with a growing range of products, services and solutions provide the Sanderson Board and management with a good level of confidence of achieving market expectations for the current year to 30th September 2013.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Sanderson Group: WH Ireland upgrades from outperform to buy with a target price of 57p.

Interim Results

RNS


RNS Number : 3061G

Sanderson Group PLC

05 June 2013



SANDERSON GROUP PLC

Interim Results for the six months ended 31 March 2013

"Further improved performance and growth following year of transition"



Sanderson Group plc ("Sanderson" or "the Group"), the software and IT services business specialising in the multi-channel retail and manufacturing markets in the UK and Ireland, announces Interim Results for the six month period ended 31 March 2013.



Commenting on the results, Chairman, Christopher Winn, said:

"Results for the six month trading period to 31 March 2013 show further improvements in revenues and operating profits. Whilst general UK trading conditions remain challenging, Sanderson has continued to generate cash strongly and to invest both in its products and services as well as in its sales and marketing capacity and capability, together producing an improved performance in the first half".

Highlights - Financial

§ Revenues from continuing operations increased to £6.37m (2012: £6.14m).

§ An increase in excess of 13% in operating profit from continuing operations amounting to £0.91m (2012: £0.80m).

§ Profit before tax from continuing operations of £0.85m (2012: £0.41m).

§ Basic earnings per share from continuing operations of 1.8p (2012: 0.4p).

§ Net cash at period-end increased to £4.50m (2012: £3.56m).

§ 30% increase in Interim Dividend to 0.65p per share (2012: 0.5p).

Highlights - Operational

§ Continued strong cash generation with net cash balance of £4.50m at period end, representing more than 10p per share.

§ Good trading momentum; order book of £1.59m at period end and growing.

§ Gross margins further improved to 87.9% (2012: 84.3%) reflecting delivery of more proprietary software and other 'owned' services.

§ Pre-contracted recurring revenues from continuing operations grew to £3.96m (2012: £3.80m) accounting for approximately 62% of total revenues.

§ 20% increase in multi-channel retail division operating profit to £0.61m (2012: £0.50m); projects during period for Aspinal of London, JoJo Maman Bébé and Axminster Tool Centre with two new customers gained.

§ Manufacturing division maintained operating profit performance at £0.30m (2012: £0.29m); projects during the period for Brookfarm, Anstey Wallpaper and Proctor Paper & Board.

§ Further £0.25m investment in sales and marketing capability.

§ Continued investment in proprietary solutions using mobile technologies generating high levels of interest and development activity.



On current trading and prospects, Mr Winn, added:

"The Board is very mindful of the relatively low levels of business confidence and of continuing challenging trading conditions within the UK and so continues to adopt a very cautious approach. The strong balance sheet and robust business model, coupled with a growing range of products, services and solutions and an improving order book, provide the Sanderson Board and management with a good level of confidence of achieving market expectations for the current year to 30 September 2013".

A buy in this weeks IC - House broker Charles Stanley - We believe the shares remain compelling in the light of high levels of recurring revenue, strong cash generation and the firms grip on its pension deficit which it hopes to be cleared by 2017. All these attributes make Sanderson a highly attractive takeover target.

LISTEN: Sanderson Group (SND) - Placing and acquisition

Click here

Pre Close Trading Update

RNS


RNS Number : 3921R

Sanderson Group PLC

25 October 2013




FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 25 October 2013


SANDERSON GROUP PLC
Pre-close Trading Update



"Strong Trading Momentum complemented by Increased Levels of Business from New Customers"



Sanderson Group plc ('Sanderson' or 'The Group'), the software and IT services business specialising in multi-channel retail and manufacturing markets in the UK and Ireland, announces the following trading update ahead of the publication of its preliminary results for the year ended 30th September 2013, scheduled to be released on Tuesday, 26th November 2013.



The trading results for the year ended 30th September 2013 are in line with market expectations and will show Group revenues of approximately £13.8m (2012: £13.37m), an improved gross margin of 87% (2012: 83.6%) and operating profit in line with market expectations.



Sanderson has continued to invest in the further development of the Group's businesses which address the expanding multi-channel retail and ecommerce markets, as well as on selected niche markets within the manufacturing sector. Product investment has been concentrated on further extending the products and services which are based upon the Group's own proprietary solutions, especially those which enable warehouse and manufacturing automation, together with solutions designed for deployment on mobile devices, including smart phones and tablets. By supplying customers with more of the Group's own products and services, gross margins have continued to improve, rising to over 87% from 83.6% in 2012. Sanderson has also continued to expand its sales and marketing capabilities and as a result of its improved competitive market position, the value of contracts signed with new customers during the year has risen by 10% to over £1.6m (2012: £1.46m; 2011: £1.27m).



In order to augment the Group's organic growth, two complementary acquisitions have been completed within the past three months. The two acquisitions comprise of Catan Marketing Limited, providing ecommerce solutions under the PRIAM trading name, for a maximum consideration of £644,600, completed in August 2013 and, at the start of the new financial year, One iota Limited on 7th October 2013 for a maximum aggregate consideration of £5.43m.



Whilst general economic conditions have shown some slight improvement in 2013, the outlook continues to be uncertain and business confidence, although increasing, still appears quite fragile. The Group's strong order book, improved market position and the two recent acquisitions provide the Board with an expectation that Sanderson will achieve significant progress during the current financial year ending 30th September 2014.

2013 Final Results

RNS


RNS Number : 9019T

Sanderson Group PLC

26 November 2013








FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 26 November 2013



SANDERSON GROUP PLC

Preliminary Results for the year ended 30 September 2013

"Strong trading momentum maintained; complemented by increased levels of business from new customers"



Sanderson Group plc ('Sanderson' or 'the Group' ), the software and IT services business specialising in multi-channel retail and manufacturing markets in the UK and Ireland, announces Preliminary Results for the financial year ended 30 September 2013.



Commenting on the results, Chairman, Christopher Winn, said:

"Against a challenging UK economic backdrop, the Group's trading results have produced increased revenue, gross margin and operating profit, together with a high level of pre-contracted recurring revenue. The value of the order book at the year end has provided a solid platform from which to make further progress in the current year. Sanderson has continued to generate cash, allowing the Board to maintain its progressive dividend policy and two acquisitions, completed either side of the year end, provide the Group with significant growth opportunities.

Highlights - Financial

§ Total revenue of £13.83 million (2012: £13.37 million).

§ Pre-contracted recurring revenue of £7.94 million (2012: £7.66 million) accounting for approximately 57.4% of total revenue (2012: 57.3%).

§ Increases in multi-channel retail division revenue and operating profits* to £7.23 million (2012: £7.17 million) and £1.28 million (2012: £1.21 million) respectively; increased business from new customers with trend towards bigger orders; five new customers gained.

§ Increase in manufacturing division revenue to £6.59 million (2012: £6.20 million)

§ Gross margins further improved to 87.6% (2012: 83.6%) reflecting increased delivery and installation of proprietary software and other 'owned' services.

§ Increase in operating profit* to £2.22 million (2012: £2.04 million).

§ Profit before tax from continuing operations of £1.94 million (2012: £1.48 million).

§ Adjusted, diluted earnings per share from continuing operations, stated before items relating to acquisitions of 4.2 pence (2012: 3.6 pence)

§ Net cash at year end of £3.66 million (2012: £4.07 million; 2011: net debt of £6.72 million) after paying £500,000 initial cash consideration on the acquisition of Catan Marketing Limited.

§ Proposed final dividend per share of 0.85 pence (2012: 0.7 pence), making total for year of 1.5 pence per share (2012: 1.2 pence).

Highlights - Operational

§ Strong trading momentum maintained and complemented by increased levels of business from new customers;

§ Order book stood at £1.94 million at year end (2012: £1.89 million; 2011: £1.35 million).

§ Manufacturing division added nine new customers during the year and has a very strong order book.

§ Further investment in sales and marketing capability made.

§ Two acquisitions completed, one after the year end; Catan Marketing Limited acquired in August for up to £644,660 cash and One iota Limited acquired in October for up to £5.43 million.

§ Continued investment in proprietary solutions using mobile technologies complemented by recent acquisition of One iota Limited.

§ Successful Share Placing at 55 pence per share in October raised £3.50 million (before costs).



* stated before amortisation of acquisition-related intangibles, share-based payment charges and acquisition-related costs



On strategy, current trading and prospects, Mr. Winn, added:

"The Sanderson Board intends to pursue a growth strategy based upon a conservative financing policy with a strong balance sheet and cash in the bank at its core. The Group will continue to invest across all of its businesses, with particular emphasis on further developing a range of solutions for ecommerce as well as for the food and drink processing sector, while mobile commerce solutions are being developed across all of the Group's target markets.

"The general economic environment, though showing some signs of improvement, is still challenging and accordingly the Board continues to adopt a cautious approach. However, the strong order book, improved market position and the two recent acquisitions provide the Board with an expectation that Sanderson will achieve significant progress during the current financial year."

AGM Statement

RNS


RNS Number : 1619B

Sanderson Group PLC

28 February 2014








FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

28 FEBRUARY 2014

SANDERSON GROUP PLC

Annual General Meeting ('AGM') Statement



Sanderson Group plc ('Sanderson' or 'the Group'), the software and IT services business specialising in multi-channel retail and manufacturing markets in the UK and Ireland, will hold its AGM in Coventry at 10.00 am today. At the AGM, Chairman, Christopher Winn, will make the following statement to shareholders:



"The Group has made a good start to the current financial year ending 30 September 2014 ('current year'). Order intake and the order book, measured on a 'like-for-like' basis, excluding acquisitions, are ahead of the comparative period and have been underpinned by a continued increase in the level of business from new customers. One iota, which was acquired just after the start of the current financial year on 7 October, has made a very positive start.



"The Sanderson business which addresses the food and drink processing market, is driving the growth of the Group's manufacturing division and its performance is more than offsetting continuing weakness in the Group's general manufacturing business. Food and drink processing represents one of the fastest growing sectors of UK manufacturing and Sanderson is well placed to continue growth in this sector, with an excellent product suite (which includes enhanced ingredient and raw material tracking ensuring traceability through the manufacturing process and supply chain) which is very ably supported by a team of experienced industry consultants. The Group also has a strong and growing presence in the online sales, ecommerce and catalogue sectors which are continuing to experience double digit growth rates, fuelled by the adoption of mobile solutions across all markets. This growth is more than offsetting a gradual decline in the Group's business which addresses the traditional mail order market. Catan Marketing, trading under the name of Priam, which was acquired in August 2013, has made a steady start and we are currently consolidating the business into our main Coventry centre. This move will enable Priam to operate more efficiently and ensure a lower cost base from the start of the next financial year.



"Sanderson continues to develop a robust business model with over half of Group sales being derived from pre-contracted recurring revenues, the margin from which covers over two-thirds of business overheads. Solutions delivered by the Group offer customers a strong ROI ('Return on Investment') opportunity, driven by a constantly evolving and continuously developing suite of product solutions. Businesses generally invest in Sanderson solutions to secure tangible business benefits and to achieve cost savings within a relatively short time frame, often within the first twelve months. One new customer recently reported a threefold 'ROI' from his Sanderson system within the first year! Product development, especially in the area of mobile solutions across the Group's businesses is at a very high level but, in line with the Board's cautious and conservative approach, it is planned that most of these development costs will continue to be expensed as they are incurred.



"The Board's strategy is to achieve organic growth, supplemented by selective acquisitions which are expected to become earnings and value enhancing. In the short term, the priority will be to successfully integrate the Priam and especially the One iota acquisitions into the Group, to maximise the growth opportunities in terms of earnings and revenues which they present.



"Business confidence is reportedly increasing within the UK and whilst we have experienced some improvement in business sentiment, recent experience is that small and medium sized businesses have moved to being 'cautiously optimistic' and this is reflected in the fact that to date capital spending has been relatively subdued. Many customers remain cautious in making investment decisions and generally, sales cycles for our solutions are still prolonged and there are often delays towards the end of the sales cycle. Whilst the Board continues to be cautious in its approach to risk, the Group does have a very cash generative business model which supports and underpins the commitment to maintain its progressive dividend policy.



"A strong balance sheet, a robust business model and an improved market position provide the Board with a good level of confidence that the Group will make further significant progress in the current year".

Pre-Close Trading Update

RNS


RNS Number : 2731F

Sanderson Group PLC

23 April 2014






FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WEDNESDAY 23 APRIL 2014

SANDERSON GROUP PLC

Pre-close Trading Update

Positive trading performance; strong order intake; good start by both recent acquisitions;

Sanderson Group plc ('Sanderson' or 'The Group'), the software and IT services business specialising in multi-channel retail and manufacturing markets in the UK and Ireland, announces the following trading update ahead of the publication of its interim results for the six months ended 31 March 2014. The interim results are scheduled for release on Monday 9 June, 2014.

For the six month period to 31 March 2014 ('the period'), the trading results will show revenue growing by over 20% to just over £7.90 million, compared with £6.37 million for the same period last year ('last year'). Underlying organic revenue growth measured on a 'like-for-like' basis (before the effect of acquisitions) was over 4%. During the period, pre-contracted recurring revenues rose to £4.41 million (last year: £3.96 million) representing more than 55% of total revenues. At the end of the period, the Group had a large order book in excess of £2.46 million (last year: £1.58 million), reflecting strong sales order intake from existing and new customers.

Gross margin represented 87% of total revenues, reflecting a sales mix which includes a higher level of Sanderson owned proprietary products and services. During the period, the profit from operating activities (before adjustments for acquisition-related intangibles, acquisition related costs and share-based payment charges) rose by over 20% to £1.20 million (last year: £988,000).

Sanderson acquired Catan Marketing Limited, which provides ecommerce solutions under the 'Priam' trading name in August 2013 and it made a positive contribution during the period. The Group also acquired One iota Limited ('One iota'), a leading provider of cloud-based multi-channel retail solutions in October 2013 and it has made a good start as part of Sanderson. One iota has helped to expand Group sales into the areas of mobile enabled online sales, ecommerce and catalogue sectors ('mobile and ecommerce'). Overall, the Group sales order intake grew by over 50% in the period compared with last year. Orders for 'mobile and ecommerce' continued to grow, accounting for over 30% of total order intake during the period.

Sanderson has a strong balance sheet and will report a cash balance at the end of the period of just over £5 million (31 March 2013: £4.50 million). The Group's strong cash generative business model enables the Board to continue with the progressive dividend policy.

The Board remains cautious in its approach to risk but has detected some improvement in business sentiment from its customers. A strong order intake in the first half year has resulted in a large order book most of which is scheduled for delivery in the second half year, providing a good level of confidence that the Group will continue to make further significant progress in the current year ending 30 September 2014.

Pre-close Trading Update

RNS


RNS Number : 0875V

Sanderson Group PLC

23 October 2014






EMBARGOED 23 October 2014

SANDERSON GROUP PLC



Pre-close Trading Update



"On-target results with growing revenue derived both from mobile applications as well as new customers;

One iota gains biggest order to date worth £400,000"



Sanderson Group plc ('Sanderson' or 'the Group'), the software and IT services business specialising in multi-channel retail and manufacturing markets in the UK and Ireland, announces the following trading update ahead of the announcement of its preliminary results for the year ended 30 September 2014, scheduled to be released on Tuesday, 25 November 2014.



The trading results for the year ended 30 September 2014 are in line with market expectations and will show Group revenue in excess of £16 million (2013: £13.80 million) and adjusted operating profit (stated before amortisation of acquisition-related intangibles, share-based payment charges and acquisition-related costs) growing by over 20% to now exceed £2.7 million (2013: £2.22 million). The balance sheet remains strong with a cash balance of just over £6 million at year-end (31 March 2014: £5.07 million; 30 September 2013: £3.66 million).



Sanderson continues to invest in its product and service offerings, which provide customers with sustainable and tangible business benefits often visible within a short timeframe. Order intake has risen by over 10% (on a 'like-for-like' basis) and the value of contracts signed with new customers during the year has risen by more than 15% to £1.9 million (2013: £1.60 million; 2012: £1.46 million). The order book at year-end, of £2.4 million, was 20% higher than at the previous year ended 30 September 2013. The continuous development of the Group's own proprietary products and services has enabled further growth especially in the areas of warehouse automation and solutions which are deployed on mobile devices, such as smart phones and tablets.



One iota, which was acquired in October 2013 has performed very well. One iota is focused on cloud-based, multi-channel solutions accessed via mobile, tablet and in-store devices. The management team has continued to drive growth and One iota has more than doubled revenue and profit when compared to its last full financial year, prior to acquisition. In September, following a successful pilot implementation, One iota secured its largest order to date, worth over £400,000. The order is expected to be installed, delivered and deployed over the course of the current financial year ending 30 September 2015.



Amongst small and medium-sized businesses ('SMEs'), we believe that, to date, business sentiment has continued to show some improvement but prospective and existing customers remain cautious in their outlook. The Board is maintaining its progressive dividend policy and a healthy balance sheet. The Group's strong order book provides the Board with a reasonable level of confidence, at this early stage of the new financial year ending 30 September 2015, that the Group will make further progress.

Pre-close Trading Update

RNS


RNS Number : 0875V

Sanderson Group PLC

23 October 2014






EMBARGOED 23 October 2014

SANDERSON GROUP PLC



Pre-close Trading Update



"On-target results with growing revenue derived both from mobile applications as well as new customers;

One iota gains biggest order to date worth £400,000"



Sanderson Group plc ('Sanderson' or 'the Group'), the software and IT services business specialising in multi-channel retail and manufacturing markets in the UK and Ireland, announces the following trading update ahead of the announcement of its preliminary results for the year ended 30 September 2014, scheduled to be released on Tuesday, 25 November 2014.



The trading results for the year ended 30 September 2014 are in line with market expectations and will show Group revenue in excess of £16 million (2013: £13.80 million) and adjusted operating profit (stated before amortisation of acquisition-related intangibles, share-based payment charges and acquisition-related costs) growing by over 20% to now exceed £2.7 million (2013: £2.22 million). The balance sheet remains strong with a cash balance of just over £6 million at year-end (31 March 2014: £5.07 million; 30 September 2013: £3.66 million).



Sanderson continues to invest in its product and service offerings, which provide customers with sustainable and tangible business benefits often visible within a short timeframe. Order intake has risen by over 10% (on a 'like-for-like' basis) and the value of contracts signed with new customers during the year has risen by more than 15% to £1.9 million (2013: £1.60 million; 2012: £1.46 million). The order book at year-end, of £2.4 million, was 20% higher than at the previous year ended 30 September 2013. The continuous development of the Group's own proprietary products and services has enabled further growth especially in the areas of warehouse automation and solutions which are deployed on mobile devices, such as smart phones and tablets.



One iota, which was acquired in October 2013 has performed very well. One iota is focused on cloud-based, multi-channel solutions accessed via mobile, tablet and in-store devices. The management team has continued to drive growth and One iota has more than doubled revenue and profit when compared to its last full financial year, prior to acquisition. In September, following a successful pilot implementation, One iota secured its largest order to date, worth over £400,000. The order is expected to be installed, delivered and deployed over the course of the current financial year ending 30 September 2015.



Amongst small and medium-sized businesses ('SMEs'), we believe that, to date, business sentiment has continued to show some improvement but prospective and existing customers remain cautious in their outlook. The Board is maintaining its progressive dividend policy and a healthy balance sheet. The Group's strong order book provides the Board with a reasonable level of confidence, at this early stage of the new financial year ending 30 September 2015, that the Group will make further progress.

2014 Final Results

RNS


RNS Number : 8423X

Sanderson Group PLC

25 November 2014










FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 25 November 2014



SANDERSON GROUP PLC

Preliminary Results for the year ended 30 September 2014

"Further significant progress, a strong performance from One iota and a healthy order book"



Sanderson Group plc ('Sanderson' or 'the Group'), the software and IT services business specialising in multi-channel retail and manufacturing markets in the UK and Ireland, announces Preliminary Results for the financial year ended 30 September 2014.



Commenting on the results, Chairman, Christopher Winn, said:

"The Group has achieved further significant progress during the year. Sanderson continues to convert substantially all of its profit into cash and this strong cash generation has enabled us to maintain a progressive dividend policy whilst continuing to invest in and develop the Group's businesses. The balance sheet has also been further strengthened with net cash at the year-end standing at £6.16 million equating to over 11 pence per share. The Multi-channel retail division performed very well, in particular, One iota, acquired in October 2013, which secured its largest order to date in September valued in excess of £400,000. Across the Group, order intake rose by over 10% on a like-for-like basis while the value of contracts signed by new customers during the year rose by more than 15% to £1.9 million."

Highlights - Financial

§ Revenue increased to £16.41 million (2013: £13.83 million).

§ Pre-contracted recurring revenue of £8.76 million (2013: £7.94 million), approximately 53% of total revenue.

§ Significant increases in Multi-channel retail division revenue and operating profits* to £9.68 million (2013: £7.23 million) and £1.89 million (2013: £1.28 million) respectively; these results reflect increased business from new customers and a significant contribution from One iota.

§ Modest increase in Manufacturing division revenue and operating profit* to £6.74 million (2013: £6.59 million) and £0.95 million (2013: £0.93 million) respectively.

§ Gross margin of 85%, reflecting high proportion of delivered and installed proprietary software and other "owned" services.

§ Operating profit* increased to £2.84 million (2013: £2.22 million).

§ Profit before tax of £1.92 million (2013: £1.94 million).

§ Basic earnings per share of 3.1 pence (2013: 3.9 pence); **Adjusted eps of 4.6 pence (2013: 4.4 pence)

§ Net cash at year-end increased to £6.16 million (2013: £3.66 million).

§ Proposed final dividend of 1.0 pence per share (2013: 0.85 pence; 2012: 0.7 pence) giving total for year of 1.8 pence per share (2013: 1.5 pence; 2012: 1.2 pence).

Highlights - Operational

§ Strong trading momentum maintained, complemented by increased levels of new business and successful integration of acquisitions.

§ Healthy order book of £2.41 million at year-end (2013: £1.94 million)

§ Ten new multi-channel retail customers during the year and seven new manufacturing customers.

§ Continued investment in proprietary solutions using mobile technologies generating high levels of interest and development activity.


* Operating profit is stated before amortisation of acquisition-related intangibles, share-based payment charges and acquisition-related costs

** Adjusted for amortisation of acquisition-related intangibles, share-based payment charges and acquisition-related costs







On current trading and prospects, Mr Winn, added:

"Whilst the Group plans to continue to invest across all of its businesses, particular emphasis is expected to be placed on developing further the range of solutions for ecommerce and mobile commerce businesses, as well as, for the food and drink processing sector. Selective acquisition opportunities will continue to be carefully considered to augment organic growth but the management priority is to focus upon delivering 'on target' results and on making the previous acquisitions successful.

Amongst small and medium-sized businesses, we believe that, to date, business sentiment has continued to show some improvement but prospective and existing customers remain cautious in their outlook. The Group's strong order book does provide the Board with a reasonable level of confidence, at this early stage, that the Group will make further progress in the current year."

The AGM statement underpins current year forecasts for the full year ending September 2015 for sales of £17.3m, normalised profit before tax of £3.1m, normalised earnings per share of 4.55p and a dividend of 1.90p. At the current share price of 66p this results in a current year multiple of 14.5x normalised earnings.

See more at http://www.investorschampion.com/research/company/sanderson/ or http://tinyurl.com/42mcb9p

ST of IC sees the rally extending to 80p and beyond.

2015 Interim Results
RNS
RNS Number : 5788P
Sanderson Group PLC
09 June 2015





FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 9 JUNE 2015



SANDERSON GROUP PLC

Interim Results for the six months to 31 March 2015

"Continued progress, improved sales order intake and a very strong order book; interim dividend up 12.5%

Appointment of Ian Newcombe as Chief Executive Officer"



Sanderson Group plc ('Sanderson' or 'the Group'), the software and IT services business specialising in multi-channel retail and manufacturing markets in the UK and Ireland, announces its interim results for the six month period to 31 March 2015.

Commenting on the results, Chairman, Christopher Winn, said:

"The Group has made further progress during the period with revenue increasing to £9.09 million (2014: £7.94 million) and operating profit rising to £1.37 million (2014: £1.21 million). Pre-contracted licence and ongoing support services recurring revenue grew to £4.76 million (2014: £4.41 million) representing 52% of total revenue in the period. Gross margin has been maintained at a robust 85% (2014: 87%), reflecting our continuing emphasis on the supply of Sanderson 'owned' proprietary software and services. The Group's order book at the period end was very strong and stood at £2.84 million (2014: £2.47 million).

"I am also very pleased to announce that Ian Newcombe, who has made a major contribution to the formulation of the Group's strategy and who has personally driven the development of the multi-channel business has been appointed as Group Chief Executive with immediate effect".

Highlights - Financial

§
Revenue increased to £9.09 million (2014: £7.94 million).

§
Pre-contracted recurring revenues of £4.76 million (2014: £4.41 million), representing approximately 52% of total revenue.

§
Multi-channel retail division revenue and operating profits* increased to £5.96 million (2014: £4.71 million) and £1.01 million (2014: £0.85 million) respectively; increased levels of business from new customers and trend towards bigger orders from existing customers;

§
Manufacturing division revenue and operating profits* of £3.14 million (2014: £3.23 million) and £0.36 million (2014: £0.37 million) respectively.

§
Operating profit* increased 13% to £1.37 million (2014: £1.21 million).

§
Profit before tax of £0.91 million (2014: £0.78 million).

§
Basic earnings per share of 1.5 pence (2014: 1.4 pence).

§
Net cash at period-end of £3.95 million (2014: £5.07 million) after acquisition related cash consideration payments of £1.8 million.

§
Interim dividend up 12.5% to 0.9 pence per share (2014: 0.8 pence; 2013: 0.65 pence).


Highlights - Operational

§
Strong trading momentum maintained, complemented by increased levels of new business

§
Very strong order book of £2.84 million at period end (2014: £2.47 million)

§
Five new multi-channel retail customers during period, including Anzac Wines & Spirits; number of large orders from existing customers including Superdry; eight new customers added by manufacturing including Nutrifresh; several large projects with existing customers including Cook Trading.

§
Continued investment in proprietary solutions using mobile technologies.

§
Appointment today of Ian Newcombe as Group CEO.



* Operating profit is stated before amortisation of acquisition-related intangibles, share-based payment charges and acquisition-related costs








On current trading and prospects, Mr Winn, added:

"Whilst the Group will continue to invest across all of its businesses, particular emphasis will be placed on further developing the range of solutions for mobile and ecommerce businesses, for the food and drink processing sector and for entry level systems in the manufacturing division. Mobile solutions continue to be developed across all of the Group's target markets. To augment organic growth, selective acquisition opportunities will continue to be considered. However, in the current year, management intends to focus on delivering another set of "on target" trading results.

The general economic environment continues to show signs of improvement, though sales cycles remain protracted. The Board remains cautious in its approach but a strong order book and healthy balance sheet together with a long list of sales prospects, provides the Board with a good level of confidence that the Group will continue to make further progress and deliver trading results in line with market expectations for the current year ending 30 September 2015."

Director Deals - Sanderson Group PLC (SND)
BFN
David Gutteridge, Non Executive Director, bought 45,000 shares in the company on the 15th July 2015 at a price of 66.00p. The Director now holds 545,000 shares.

Story provided by StockMarketWire.com
Director deals data provided by www.directorsholdings.com

ST of IC today - Shares in Sanderson

(SND:71p), the software and IT services business specialising in multi-channel retail and manufacturing markets in the UK and Ireland, have been trading in an incredibly tight range for 21 months now, repeatedly hitting resistance at 75p and receiving strong support at the 60p level. At some point a break-out will happen and I still side with a move to the upside

ST of IC today - I have no reason to alter my long-term positive stance and feel that fair value lies somewhere between 85p and 90p. Buy.

ST of IC today - 05 May 2016

The software and IT services firm is rated on a hefty valuation discount to peers, and unfairly so.

2016 Interim Results

RNS


RNS Number : 5166A

Sanderson Group PLC

08 June 2016












FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 8 JUNE 2016



SANDERSON GROUP PLC

Interim Results for the six months ended 31 March 2016

"Continued profitable growth; Very strong order book; Interim dividend up 11%; Board Change"

Sanderson Group plc ('Sanderson' or 'the Group'), the software and IT services business specialising in digital technology and enterprise software for businesses operating in the retail, manufacturing, wholesale distribution and logistics sectors, announces its interim results for the six month period ended 31 March 2016.

Commenting on the results, Chairman, Christopher Winn, said:

"The Group has made further progress during the period with revenue increasing to £9.86 million (2015: £9.09 million) and operating profit* rising to £1.47 million (2015: £1.37 million)."

"Gross margin has improved to 86% (2015: 85%), reflecting continuing emphasis on the supply of Sanderson 'owned' proprietary software and services. The recurring revenue from pre-contracted licence and ongoing support services grew to £5.19 million (2015: £4.76 million), representing 53% of total revenue in the period. The Group's order book at the period end was very strong and stood at £3.20 million (2015: £2.84 million) compared with £2.35 million at 30 September 2015."

"The Group has an established history of converting substantially all of its profit into cash and at 31 March 2016, after payment of £1.54 million deferred consideration in respect of acquired businesses, the Group's net cash balance was £3.39 million (2015: £ 3.95 million). The Board remains committed to maintaining a progressive dividend policy and is pleased to declare an increase of 11% in the level of the interim dividend to 1.0 pence per share (2015: 0.9 pence)."

Highlights - Financial

•Revenue increased by 8% to £9.86 million (2015: £9.09 million).


•Gross margin increased to 86% (2015: 85%).


•Operating profit* increased 7% to £1.47 million (2015: £1.37 million).


•Basic earnings per share of 1.7 pence (2015: 1.5 pence), an increase of 13%.


•Net cash at the half year end of £3.39 million (2015: £3.95 million) after acquisition related cash consideration payments of £1.54 million.


•Interim dividend up 11% to 1.0 pence per share (2015: 0.9 pence).


•Pre-contracted recurring revenues of £5.19 million (2015: £4.76 million), representing approximately 53% of total revenue.




* Operating profit is stated before amortisation of acquisition-related intangibles, share-based payment charges and acquisition-related and restructuring costs.

Highlights - Operational

•New reporting structure comprising two divisions: Digital Retail Division providing IT solutions to businesses operating in ecommerce, mobile commerce and retail sectors in the UK and Enterprise Division comprising two market focused businesses based on manufacturing (principally food and drink processing industries) and wholesale distribution and logistics.


•Significantly improved order intake during the period of £6.02 million (2015: £4.94 million).


•New customers contributed £2.08 million of orders during the period (2015: £1.03 million).


•Robust order book of £3.20 million at period-end (2015: £2.84 million).


•Digital Retail revenue increased to £2.95 million (2015: £2.80 million); strong demand from existing customers including Hotel Chocolat and Scotts of Stow; successful completion of Phase 2 European roll-out for Superdry.


•Enterprise Division revenues of £6.92 million (2015: £6.29 million) and operating profit* of £1.15 million (2015: £0.89 million); strong order book of £2.42 million at period-end (2015: £1.81 million); new manufacturing customers gained during period, including Thistle Seafoods Limited and Dunkleys, with average order value significantly higher than in comparative period.


•Continued investment in product development, sales and marketing across the Group with particular emphasis on proprietary solutions using mobile technologies.


•Mr Philip Kelly, a Non-Executive Director since November 2004, will retire from the Board following the release of
the Interim Results announcement today, after over eleven years of valued service and support to the Group, to the Board and to the shareholders.






On current trading and prospects, Group Chief Executive, Ian Newcombe, added:

"The general economic environment has continued to improve and although sales cycles do remain protracted, the Group has achieved a very high level of business from new customers during the period. Whilst the Board continues to adopt a cautious approach, the very strong order book and healthy balance sheet, together with an extensive list of sales prospects, provide a good level of confidence that the Group will continue to make further progress and deliver trading results in line with market expectations for the current year ending 30 September 2016."

8 Jun Panmure Gordon 107.00 Buy

Pre-Close Trading Update
RNS
RNS Number : 8900M
Sanderson Group PLC
19 October 2016
 
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                   19 OCTOBER 2016
SANDERSON GROUP PLC
Pre-close Trading Update
"In line trading with strong order intake and revenue ahead of expectations"
 
Sanderson Group plc ('Sanderson' or 'the Group'), the software and IT services business specialising in digital retail technology and enterprise software for businesses operating in the manufacturing, wholesale distribution and logistics sectors, issues the following trading update ahead of the announcement of its preliminary results for the year ended 30 September 2016, scheduled to be released on 30 November 2016.
 
The Group's trading results for the year ended 30 September 2016 ('year-end') are in line with market expectations in terms of profit whilst revenue is slightly ahead of expectations.  Revenue has grown by 10% to now exceed £21 million (2015: £19.18 million) and adjusted operating profit (stated before the amortisation of acquisition-related intangibles, share-based payment charges and acquisition-related costs) has also increased by over 10% to approximately £3.69 million (2015: £3.30 million). 
 
Sales order intake has grown to over £12 million (2015: £10.03 million) and has included over £3.8 million of business gained from new customers, nearly double the £2.0 million gained from new customers during the previous financial year ending 30 September 2015.  Reflecting this sales success, the Group order book at 30 September 2016 stood at £3.0 million (2015: £2.35 million).  Pre-contracted recurring revenues increased to £10.76 million (2015: £9.85 million) representing over 50% of total revenue. 
 
The Group's net cash balance at 30 September 2016 was £4.30 million (30 September 2015: £4.61 million) reflecting the Group's continuing strong cash generation.  This balance also included both the payment of deferred consideration of £1.6 million in respect of 2013 and 2014 acquisitions, as well as, total dividend payments in the year of £1.2 million.
 
Digital Retail Division
Digital Retail, which operates in very active and rapidly developing markets continued to make progress. Digital Retail's revenue, despite a slower first half year, finished the year strongly with revenues growing by approximately 8.5% to £6.40 million (2015: £5.86 million).  Digital Retail gained a large new retail customer towards the end of the financial year, with the solution being rolled-out during the coming financial year ending 30 September 2017.  The Group has made further investment in management, sales and delivery capacity in anticipation of continued rapid growth in the digital retail market with sales prospects remaining good.
 
Enterprise Division
As reported at the interim results stage, the Enterprise Division has benefited from increased investment in its sales and marketing capability over the last two years and has made further strong progress in the current financial year. 
 
The Manufacturing business, very much driven by the food and drink processing sector, has gained over a £1.0 million of orders from new customers.  The Group businesses which focus on the supply of solutions to the wholesale distribution and logistics sectors have also traded very well and have gained a record value of orders from new customers and overall divisional order intake was up by 50% over the prior year.  The Enterprise Division enters the new financial year with a strong order book and good sales prospects.  
 
The Board remains keen to enhance the strength of the Group by selective complementary acquisitions.  A number of opportunities are currently under consideration.  Management continue to adopt a careful and measured approach to acquisitions with the priority being focused on continuing to deliver shareholder value through achieving organic growth and 'on target' results, thereby ensuring higher earnings and dividend returns to shareholders.
 
Following the Brexit vote in June, the Group has not yet detected any loss of confidence from both existing customers and prospective customers, but is continuing to monitor the situation.  Sanderson has a strong order book and together with a healthy balance sheet, strong reputation and track record in its markets, the Board is confident at this early stage of a new financial year that the Group should continue to make further progress during the year ending 30 September 2017.
 

2016 Final Results
RNS
RNS Number : 4864Q
Sanderson Group PLC
30 November 2016
 
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                          30 NOVEMBER 2016
 
SANDERSON GROUP PLC
Preliminary Results for the year ended 30 September 2016
Strong trading momentum; further profitable growth; final dividend up 16%
Sanderson Group plc ('Sanderson' or 'the Group'), the software and IT services business specialising in digital retail technology and enterprise software for businesses operating in the manufacturing, wholesale distribution and logistics sectors, announces its preliminary results for the year ended 30 September 2016.
Commenting on the results, Chairman, Christopher Winn, said:
"The Group's trading results for the year ended 30 September 2016 are in line with market expectations in terms of profit whilst revenue is slightly ahead of expectations.  Revenue has increased by 11% to £21.32 million (2015: £19.18 million), with adjusted operating profit* growing by almost 12% to £3.69 million (2015: £3.30 million).  Profit before tax increased by 37% to £2.78 million (2015: £2.03 million).
"Gross margin remains strong at 84% (2015: 85%), reflecting a continuing emphasis on the supply of Sanderson proprietary software and services.  Sales order intake grew by over 20% to £12.26 million (2015: £10.03 million) and this increase included over £3.83 million of business gained from new customers.
"Sanderson has a strong, cash-generative business model which has enabled the Board to maintain a progressive dividend policy whilst continuing to invest in the further development of the Group's businesses.  The Board is proposing an increase of 16% in the final dividend to 1.4 pence per share (2015: 1.2 pence)."
Highlights - Financial 
Revenue increased by 11% to £21.32 million (2015: £19.18 million).
Pre-contracted recurring revenue grew 10% to £10.75 million (2015: £9.77 million), representing approximately 50% of total revenue in the year (2015: 51%).
Operating profit* increased 12% to £3.69 million (2015: £3.30 million).
Profit before tax of £2.78 million (2015: £2.03 million), an increase of 37%.
Diluted earnings per share of 4.4 pence (2015: 3.4 pence), an increase of 29%.
Adjusted** diluted earnings per share of 5.5 pence (2015: 4.9 pence).
Cash balance at year-end of £4.34 million (2015: £4.61 million) after acquisition related cash consideration payments of £1.66 million and dividend payments during the year of £1.21 million.
Proposed final dividend up 16% to 1.4 pence per share (2015: 1.2 pence). 
 
* Operating profit is stated before amortisation of acquisition-related intangibles, share-based payment charges and acquisition-related and restructuring costs.
** Adjusted for amortisation of acquisition-related intangibles, share-based payment charges and acquisition related and restructuring costs.
 
Highlights - Operational
New reporting structure comprising two divisions:  Digital Retail and Enterprise Software.
Significantly improved order intake of £12.26 million (2015: £10.03 million).
Robust order book up by over 25% at year-end to £3.02 million (2015: £2.35 million).
Digital Retail revenue increased by 8.8% to £6.40 million (2015: £5.88 million); with strong demand from existing customers including Axminster Tools & Machinery and Thorntons.
Enterprise Division had a very successful year with revenues up 12% to £14.92 million (2015: £13.30 million); robust order book up by over 40% at year-end to £2.10 million (2015: £1.43 million); strong demand from both existing as well as new customers.
Mr Philip Kelly, a Non-Executive Director since November 2004, retired from the Board in June after over eleven years of valued service and support to the Group, to the Board and to the shareholders.
 
On current trading and outlook, Group Chief Executive, Ian Newcombe, added:
"Sanderson has maintained a strong balance sheet and a robust business model which is built upon long-term relationships with customers, generates strong recurring revenues and which the Board believe positions the Group well in its target markets.
"Together with a strong order book and good sales momentum, the Board has a good level of confidence that, at this relatively early stage of the new financial year, the Group will make further progress and deliver trading results which are again, at least, in line with market expectations for the year ending 30 September 2017."
 

2017 Interim Results
RNS
RNS Number : 0389G
Sanderson Group PLC
24 May 2017
 
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                                          24 MAY 2017
 
 
SANDERSON GROUP PLC
Interim Results for the six months ended 31 March 2017
"Continued organic growth with both revenue and interim dividend up 10%"
 
Sanderson Group plc ('Sanderson' or 'the Group'), the software and IT services business specialising in digital retail technology and enterprise software for businesses operating in the manufacturing, wholesale distribution and logistics sectors, announces its interim results for the six month period ended 31 March 2017.
 
Commenting on the results, Chairman, Christopher Winn, said:
"The Group has made further progress in the first half of the current financial year with revenue and operating profits both increasing during the period. Sanderson has a strong, cash-generative business model and this has enabled the Board to maintain a progressive dividend policy whilst continuing to invest in the further development of the Group's businesses.  I am pleased to report that the Board is declaring an increase of 10% in the interim dividend to 1.1 pence per share (2016: 1.0 pence)."
 
Highlights - Financial 
Revenue increased by over 10% to £10.90 million (2016: £9.86 million).
Pre-contracted recurring revenues of £5.40 million (2016: £5.19 million), representing approximately 50% of total revenue.
Operating profit* increased by 5% to £1.55 million (2016: £1.47 million).
Basic earnings per share of 1.6 pence (2016: 1.7 pence).
**Adjusted, basic earnings per share of 2.4 pence (2016: 2.3 pence).
Net cash at the half year end of £4.51 million (March 2016: £3.39 million).
Interim dividend up 10% to 1.1 pence per share (2016: 1.0 pence). 
 
 
 
 
* Operating profit is stated before amortisation of acquisition-related intangibles, share-based payment charges and acquisition-related costs.
** Adjusted for amortisation of acquisition-related intangibles, share-based payment charges and acquisition-related costs
 
Highlights - Operational
Sales order intake remained strong during the period of £5.81 million (2016: £6.02 million).
Order book of £2.78 million at period-end (2016: £3.20 million) is well-balanced across the Group's businesses.
Sales order intake of the Digital Retail division grew by almost 50% and revenue by 20%.
Continued investment in product development, sales and marketing across the Group with particular emphasis on proprietary solutions using mobile technologies.
Board change: By mutual agreement, Mr Adrian Frost, who has been with the Group since 2000 and has served as Group Finance Director since 2005, will be leaving the Group, later in the year. 
 
On current trading and prospects, Group Chief Executive, Ian Newcombe, added:
"The Group's well-developed business model is to foster long-term customer relationships which result in a high proportion of sales arising from pre-contracted recurring revenue, complemented by incremental sales to its large, well established and growing customer base.
 
Sanderson continued to achieve a good level of business from both new as well as existing customers during the period.  The Board continues to be cautious in its future planning, but notwithstanding any potential uncertainty which may result from the forthcoming Brexit negotiations, the good order book, healthy balance sheet, strong reputation and track record provide a good level of confidence that the Group will continue to make further progress and deliver trading results in line with market expectations for the current year ending 30 September 2017."

Acquisition of Anisa Holdings valued at
RNS
RNS Number : 4449X
Sanderson Group PLC
24 November 2017
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                  24 NOVEMBER 2017
 
SANDERSON GROUP PLC
Acquisition of Anisa Consolidated Holdings Limited, valued at £12 million
 
Sanderson Group plc ('Sanderson' or 'the Group'), the software and IT services business specialising in digital retail technology and enterprise software for businesses operating in the manufacturing, wholesale distribution and logistics sectors, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Anisa Consolidated Holdings Limited ('Anisa') for an enterprise value of £12.0 million.
 
Anisa specialises in the delivery of world-class integrated supply chain and enterprise resource planning ('ERP') solutions and has around 250 customers who are provided with twenty-four hour support on a worldwide basis throughout the year.  Anisa employs over 90 staff and operates from office locations in London, Runcorn, Liverpool and Solihull within the UK and from smaller support operations in Singapore and Australia.  Anisa complements the Enterprise division of Sanderson and the enlarged, merged business is expected to provide and develop incremental and synergistic market opportunities.  The managed services, hosting services and cloud delivery services which have been developed by Anisa represent an exciting and enhanced service delivery option for existing Sanderson customers. 
 
For the period ended 31 December 2016, Anisa had audited revenue of £10.04 million, including pre-contracted recurring revenues representing over 50% of total revenue and reported operating profit of £0.38 million.  Profit before taxation was £73,000.  At 31 December 2016, Anisa had net assets of £6.54 million. 
 
The Anisa executive team of Mr Ross Telford, Chairman, Mr David Renshaw, Chief Executive and Mr Lionel Moore, Finance Director will remain with Anisa and are committed to making the acquisition a success.  They have demonstrated their commitment to the enlarged Group by agreeing to a minimum 'lock-in' period of three years for their new Sanderson ordinary shares.
 
The purchase consideration for the acquisition comprises an initial £3.39 million, made up of approximately £2.06 million in cash which is being financed from existing Sanderson cash resources and by the issue of 1,894,217 new Sanderson 10p ordinary shares valued at 70p, which are subject to a lock-in period of three years.  Further consideration of £1.82 million is payable to Anisa share option holders to be satisfied by cash or new Sanderson shares (also subject to a lock-in period of three years) at a price of 70p by 31st December 2017, dependent on the choice of the option holder.  Sanderson is also taking over Anisa's utilised five-year repayable term debt facility (final quarterly repayment being due in 2020) of £4.12 million as well as a current account positive cash balance of just over £1 million.  Furthermore, loan notes with a coupon of 5% to the value of £1.05 million will be repaid by October 2018.  Deferred consideration, totalling £1.63 million is payable in three tranches.  The first payment of £563,000 is payable in April 2018 and the second payment for the same amount, payable in October 2018; both tranches are unconditional.  A third and final deferred payment of up to £500,000 is scheduled for April 2019, dependent upon some pre-agreed trading performance criteria.  Both Anisa and Sanderson are very cash generative businesses and it is expected that the combined Group will have total revenues of over £30 million, of which more than 50% is pre-contracted recurring revenue.  The combined Group will have no net bank debt thereby maintaining a good and strengthening balance sheet.  The Board believes that Anisa is a well-managed cash generative business which will be earnings enhancing from the outset.
 
Application has been made to the London Stock Exchange for the 1,894,217 new ordinary shares to be admitted to trading on AIM ('Admission') and it is expected that Admission will take place at 8.00 a.m. on 29 November 2017.  The new ordinary shares will, when issued, be credited as fully paid and will rank pari passu with the existing ordinary shares of 10 pence each in the capital of the Group including the right to receive all future dividends and distributions declared, made or paid by reference to a record date falling after their issue.
 
Following admission of the 1,894,217 new ordinary shares, the Group's issued share capital will comprise 56,964,885 ordinary shares of 10 pence each.  The above figure may be used by Shareholders as the denominator for the calculations by which they will determine whether they are required to notify their interest in, or a change to their interest in, the Group under the Financial Conduct Authority's Disclosure and Transparency Rules.
 
Sanderson is scheduled to announce its preliminary trading results for the year ended 30 September 2017, on Tuesday, 28 November 2017.
 
Commenting on the acquisition, Group Chief Executive, Ian Newcombe, said:
"We are delighted to welcome the Anisa team, led by Ross Telford, David Renshaw, and Lionel Moore, together with their Anisa colleagues to Sanderson and we are excited by the prospect of combining our two strong, well-positioned businesses and by the opportunities that will arise from working closely together in the future."
 
Also, commenting on the acquisition, Chairman, Christopher Winn, said:
"Anisa and Sanderson have known each other for many years and though this transaction is a Sanderson acquisition, it feels more like a merger.  Whilst Anisa and Sanderson have rarely competed in their respective target markets, they are very complementary in terms of their ethos and business model - providing cost-effective solutions, supported by providing quality service to customers thereby building and developing long-term relationships.  The strategy of the combined business is to continue to develop the existing range of products and services delivered to existing customers; to further invest and develop the Anisa relationships with strategic partners and to provide additional investment in order to accelerate growth opportunities by attracting even more new customers. 
Our enlarged Group provides a great opportunity to further build shareholder returns and shareholder value and we value and appreciate the confidence shown by the Anisa team, in agreeing to hold their new Sanderson shares for at least a period of three years.  We believe that our enlarged Group provides a great opportunity to further increase returns and value for Sanderson shareholders."

AGM Statement
RNS
RNS Number : 9685E
Sanderson Group PLC
15 February 2018



FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 15 FEBRUARY 2018

SANDERSON GROUP PLC

Annual General Meeting ('AGM') Statement

Sanderson Group plc ('Sanderson' or 'the Group'), the software and IT services business specialising in digital retail technology and enterprise software for businesses operating in the manufacturing, wholesale distribution and logistics sectors, will hold its AGM in Coventry at 11.00 am, today. At the AGM, Chairman, Christopher Winn, will make the following statement to shareholders:

"The Sanderson Group was expanded by the acquisition of the Anisa Group ('Anisa') in November 2017, almost two months into the current financial year ending 30 September 2018. The expanded Group is expected to have revenue in excess of £30 million, a high gross margin in the region of 80% and around 800 customers who are supported by over 300 skilled and specialist staff. Anisa has made a good start as part of Sanderson and the overall trading performance of the Sanderson Group is in line with management's expectations. Up to the end of January, four months into the new financial year, total Group revenues are approximately one-third ahead of the comparative four-month period to the end of January in 2017. Excluding Anisa, like-for-like Sanderson revenues are around 5% ahead and operating profit is approximately 10% ahead of the comparative results for the four-month period to the end of January 2017. The order book at 31 January is also strong and partly reflecting the large order gained in June 2017 (over half of which is yet to be fulfilled), the `like-for-like` order book is over 20% ahead of the level as at the end of January 2017.

The Board is committed to maintain a strong balance sheet and notwithstanding the acquisition of Anisa for cash and shares, the Group continues to hold net cash 'at bank'. The acquisition resulted in the issue of 3,990,653 consideration shares which represent 6.73% of the Group's current issued share capital of 59,326,321 ordinary shares. The Anisa directors hold 2,828,384 of these consideration shares representing 4.77% of the issued share capital of Sanderson and in turn, Mr David Renshaw, the Chief Executive of Anisa, owns 2,068,545 of these shares, representing 3.48% of Sanderson share capital. All of these consideration shares are subject to a three year lock-in expiring on 23 November 2020.

The Group's Digital Retail businesses which operate in continuing active markets have made a good start to the new financial year with both revenue and operating profit continuing to grow at double-digit rates. Whilst sales cycles continue to be long, a number of new customer prospects and continued strong levels of activity provide a good level of confidence going into the remaining eight months of the financial year.

The Sanderson Enterprise businesses have made a solid start and sales prospects are well ahead of last year, though sales cycles remain protracted. A new, innovative digital platform for the wholesale distribution market was announced at the beginning of the financial year. This has been very well received by existing and prospective new customers with overall interest ahead of expectations. We are excited about the future prospects in the wholesale distribution sector of the market.

Sanderson has a robust business model and with the acquisition of Anisa, the Group's pre-contracted recurring revenues now represent around 55% of total revenue. This recurring revenue stream results in more predictable cash generation which, in turn, supports the Board's progressive dividend policy. A recommended final dividend of 1.55 pence per share, for approval at today's AGM, will make a total dividend for last year's results of 2.65 pence per share, representing an increase of over 10% from the previous year (and an increase of 50% over the last three years, from the 1.8 pence paid for the year ending 30 September 2014). The Board remains cautious and conservative in its approach, but the good start made by Anisa, the strengthening and robust business model of Sanderson, the cash-backed balance sheet and the positive business momentum provide the Board with a good level of confidence that the Group will make continued progress in the current financial year ending 30 September 2018."

Pre-Close Trading Update
RNS
RNS Number : 4870M
Sanderson Group PLC
30 April 2018

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 30 APRIL 2018

SANDERSON GROUP PLC
Pre-close Trading Update
"Results slightly ahead of management's expectations; positive trading momentum maintained with strong balance sheet; November acquisition makes a good start; current order book now standing at £8 million."

Sanderson Group plc ('Sanderson' or 'the Group'), the software and IT services business specialising in digital retail technology and enterprise software for businesses operating in the manufacturing, wholesale distribution and logistics sectors, issues the following trading update ahead of the announcement of its interim results for the six months ended 31 March 2018, which are scheduled to be released on 23 May 2018.

Sanderson Group was expanded and enhanced by the acquisition of the Anisa Group ('Anisa') on 23 November 2017, for an enterprise value of £12 million. Anisa specialises in the delivery and support of world-class integrated supply chain and enterprise resource planning ('ERP') solutions on a global basis. The size and strength of the Sanderson Enterprise division has been significantly enhanced and Anisa has made a good start as part of Sanderson.

The Group's trading results for the six months ended 31 March 2018 are slightly ahead of management's expectations with revenue and profit growing by over 30%. Group revenue was just above £14.5 million (H1 2017: £10.9 million) and operating profit (stated before the amortisation of acquisition-related intangibles, share-based payment charges, acquisition-related and restructuring costs) increased to over £2 million (H1 2017: £1.55 million). On a 'like-for-like' basis, excluding the acquisition, revenues have risen to just over £11 million (H1 2017: £10.9 million) and operating profit, reflecting a more efficient and lower cost of the delivery of Group solutions, at over £1.7 million (H1 2017; £1.55 million) is more than 10% ahead. Gross margins continue to run at a high level of over 80% and growing pre-contracted recurring revenues increased to above £8 million ('like-for-like' excluding Anisa, H1 2018: £5.9 million compares with H1 2017: £5.40 million). The Group continues to focus on building recurring revenues including growing subscription, cloud and managed services revenues.

Sales order intake continues to be good and the value of the Group order book measured on a 'like-for-like' basis at the end of March 2018, was over 15% ahead of the comparable order book value at the end of March 2017. The order book is much better balanced and is now at a more manageable level across the Group's businesses. The total order book, which now includes the acquisition and reflects the remaining element of the large order gained in June 2017, is now valued above £8 million.

The Board is committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet and Sanderson continues to generate cash in line with operating profit. Following the acquisition in November 2017 which was satisfied from the Group's own cash resources, by the assumption of Anisa's utilised five-year repayable term debt facility of £4.12 million and by the issue of 3,990,653 Sanderson shares (which are effectively 'locked-in' until November 2020), the net cash balance at 31 March 2018 stood at over £1.3 million (31 March 2017: £4.51 million).

Digital Retail Division
Digital Retail, which operates in very active and rapidly developing markets, continues to make strong progress. In the six-month period to 31 March 2018, revenue grew by over 20% compared with the comparable period in the prior year, profits almost doubled and the order book at 31 March was up by over 50% compared with the order book at 31 March 2017. Following a successful pilot scheme, a Phase One order has been secured with a well-known global iconic fashion brand. Sales prospects remain strong with pilot schemes for a number of prospective customers being planned for initial deployment in the current financial year.

Enterprise Division
The Group's Enterprise businesses, which have benefited from increased investment in sales and marketing capability, have continued to make progress. The Manufacturing business is increasingly driven by the food and drink processing sector where the Group has a strong presence and the profit achieved was higher than for the comparable prior year period. The Group businesses which focus on the supply of solutions to the wholesale distribution sector remained very profitable with revenue and profit being sustained at levels close to the comparable prior year period. We expect this part of the business to deliver an improved result for the second half year, which has started well. Anisa has made a good start as part of Sanderson with a number of exciting sales prospects being developed. The managed service product offerings provide an opportunity to exploit and to accelerate expected market trends towards subscription and cloud options for product delivery and for access at customer sites. Anisa considerably enhances the proven range of products, services and solutions which Sanderson now offers to prospective and existing customers in the target market sectors. The Enterprise division enters the second half of the financial year with a strong recurring revenue base, a good order book and a good list of sales prospects.

Strategy and Outlook
The Board continues to be cautious in its approach, sensitive to market conditions and endeavours to monitor the general economic environment carefully. Notwithstanding any potential uncertainty surrounding the ongoing Brexit negotiations, Sanderson, now strengthened by the acquisition, has a large order book, robust recurring revenues and a healthy balance sheet. The Group has a good reputation, a strong track record and with continuing sales momentum in its target markets, the Board has a good level of confidence that Sanderson will make significant further progress during the current financial year ending 30 September 2018.

2018 Interim Results
RNS
RNS Number : 9353O
Sanderson Group PLC
23 May 2018



FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 23 MAY 2018


SANDERSON GROUP PLC
Interim Results for the six months ended 31 March 2018
"Strong performance across the Group with EPS increasing by 44%; November acquisition has made a good start; Dividend up 14%; further significant progress anticipated."

Sanderson Group plc ('Sanderson' or 'the Group'), the software and IT services business specialising in digital retail technology and enterprise software for businesses operating in the manufacturing, wholesale distribution and logistics sectors, announces Interim Results for the six month period ended 31 March 2018.

Commenting on the results, Chairman, Christopher Winn, said:
"The Group trading results for the six month period ended 31 March 2018, are slightly ahead of management's expectations; revenue increased by 34% to £14.61 million (2017: £10.90 million) and operating profit* rose by 34% to £2.08 million (2017: £1.55 million). Sanderson continues to generate cash in line with operating profit and is committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet. To supplement organic growth, selective acquisitions are under continued consideration. The Board remains focused on continuing to deliver both organic and acquisitive growth, achieving 'on target' results, increased earnings, good cash generation and a robust balance sheet, thereby further increasing shareholder value and growing dividend returns."
Highlights - Financial
· Revenue increased by 34% to £14.61 million (2017: £10.90 million); 'like-for-like' revenue (excluding Anisa) rose to £11.08 million (2017: £10.90 million).
· Pre-contracted recurring revenue increased to £8.25 million (2017: £5.40 million), representing 56% of total revenue in the period (2017: 50%); 'like-for-like' recurring revenue grew by 11% to £5.99 million (2017: £5.40 million).
· Operating profit* rose by 34% to £2.08 million (2017: £1.55 million); 'like-for-like' operating profit (excluding Anisa) grew by over 12% to £1.74 million reflecting a more efficient, lower cost delivery of the Group's solutions.
· Continued cash generation in line with operating profit with net cash balance at 31 March 2018 of £1.39 million. The cash balance, excluding the Anisa loan (term debt facility of £4.12 million) remains strong at £5.06 million (2017: £4.51 million).
· Increased Interim Dividend declared, up 14% to 1.25 pence per share (2017: 1.10 pence).
· Basic earnings per share* increased 44% to 2.3 pence (2017: 1.6 pence).

* Operating profit and basic earnings per share are stated before amortisation of acquisition-related intangibles, share-based payment charges, acquisition-related and restructuring costs.


Highlights - Operational
· Strong performances from both Digital Retail and Enterprise divisions with order books of £3.42 million (2017: £0.84 million) and £5.19 million (2017: £1.93 million) respectively.
· Digital Retail revenue grew 20% to £4.25 million (2017: £3.54 million) whilst operating profit* more than doubled to £0.70 million (2017: £0.34 million); sales orders gained during period included Richer Sounds plc, Thorntons Limited, Beaverbrooks The Jewellers Limited and Scotts of Stow;
· Enterprise division, comprising manufacturing, wholesale distribution and logistics and supply chains, significantly enhanced and strengthened by acquisition of Anisa during the period; revenue and operating profit* (including Anisa) increased to £10.36 million (2017: £7.36 million) and £1.38 million (2017: £1.21 million) respectively. Anisa's global customer base, active during the period, with orders from Culina Group and DHL Supply Chain.
· Total Group order book at period-end (including Anisa) of £8.61 million (2017: £2.78 million); like-for-like order book rose 16% to £3.22 million (2017: £2.78 million).

On current trading and outlook, Group Chief Executive, Ian Newcombe, added:
"We continue to be measured in our business approach, sensitive to the general economic environment and we monitor customer confidence and market conditions carefully. Whilst the Group has not detected any major loss of confidence amongst its customers and that the value of prospects is increasing, sales cycles can still be protracted, especially where major projects are under consideration. Notwithstanding any potential uncertainty surrounding the ongoing Brexit negotiations, Sanderson, now strengthened by the November acquisition, has a large order book, robust recurring revenue and a healthy balance sheet. Combined with the Group's proven reputation, well-established track record and continuing sales momentum, the Board has a good level of confidence that Sanderson will make significant further progress during the current financial year ending 30 September 2018."