Half-year Report

Summary by AI BETAClose X

MS International plc reported a profit before tax of £8.47 million for the half-year ended 31st October 2025, a slight decrease from £8.77 million in the prior year, on revenue of £55.81 million, up from £54.72 million. However, on a like-for-like basis, profit increased to £9.28 million from £7.98 million, excluding derivative gains and losses. Basic earnings per share were 38.5p, down from 39.8p, while diluted earnings per share were 37.6p, down from 38.3p. The company's cash and cash equivalents strengthened to £35.73 million from £32.02 million, and an interim dividend of 6p per share is proposed, an increase from 5p. The company is focusing on its Defence and Security division and exploring the sale of its non-core divisions.

Disclaimer*

MS International PLC
14 January 2026
 



MS INTERNATIONAL plc

 




Unaudited Interim Condensed

 

Group Financial Statements

 

31st October 2025

 




 




EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS

Michael Bell

Michael O'Connell

Nicholas Bell

Shelley Ashcroft

John Meldrum



 

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS

Roger Lane-Smith

David Hansell




 

COMPANY SECRETARY

Shelley Ashcroft




 

REGISTERED OFFICE

Balby Carr Bank

Doncaster

DN4 8DH

England




 

PRINCIPAL OPERATING DIVISIONS


 'Defence and Security'

 'Forgings'

 'Petrol Station Superstructures and Branding'



 



 


Chairman's Statement

 

Introduction

 

This is the first occasion, in recent times, that we have published our interim results in January.  The change from an early December date allows more time for the preparation of results, given the Company's significant growth in recent years and ensures that my statement reflects the latest trading position in a world where business events and markets change rapidly.

 

In that regard I am delighted to tell shareholders that I believe our medium to long term prospects are better than at any time in the Company's history.

 

Before reporting our interim figures in detail, it is important to cover some significant developments, particularly as last year also saw several new institutional shareholders invest in the business.

 

2025 was arguably the most significant year for the business since its formation.  It saw the conclusion of a two-year internal review resulting in the decision to focus on the 'Defence and Security' division and dispose of our non-core divisions.  We also reshaped and strengthened our management team.

 

Last Spring, we tested market interest in the non-core activities of 'Forgings', 'Petrol Station Superstructures' and 'Corporate Branding'.  We received encouraging interest, but mainly from financial buyers.  We will continue our dialogue with those but, in addition, our objective this calendar year, is to explore potential trade buyers' interest in these very successful businesses.

 

We enter 2026 with an enhanced and younger Board.  In January 2025 Shelley Ashcroft (40) joined the Board as Finance Director and, in August, John Meldrum (57), the CEO of our 'Defence and Security' division, also moved onto the Board.  Both have already made considerable contributions in their new capacities.  I continue as Executive Chairman and Michael O'Connell, our former Finance Director, is now Managing Director and we continue to jointly manage our group of companies.

 

Results

 

All three divisions continued to perform well during the half year ended 31st October 2025 although, as I guided to in last June's full year announcement, we are experiencing a slower current financial year, mainly owing to timing issues with defence orders and that revenue is only recognised when performance obligations are satisfied.

 

As expected, our overall performance has been relatively flat with profit before tax amounting to £8.47m (2024 - £8.77m) on revenue of £55.81m (2024 - £54.72m). However, after removing the impact of derivative gains and losses (note 15), profit on a like for like basis of £9.28m was up on the prior year (2024 - £7.98m).  

 

Basic earnings per share were 38.5p (2024 - 39.8p). 

 

The balance sheet remains strong with cash and cash equivalents of £35.73m (2024 - £32.02m).

 

Review of Divisions

 

'Defence and Security'

 

Political uncertainty and increasing volatility throughout the world is such that many countries now recognise the importance of a significant defence budget.  Many have set a target of a minimum spend of 2.5% of GDP.   Yet some governments are struggling to make decisions as to what they need, how quickly they need it and how to fund their requirements. Despite these challenges the division continues to perform well and is positioned to react to the industry's ever-changing demands.

 

In my year end statement, I informed shareholders that we had received a 'Request for Purchase' from the US Navy for another year's procurement programme of our MSI-DS 30mm naval weapon system. I am most delighted to confirm that we were successful in being awarded a further one year's contract, as we announced on 1st October 2025.

 

The investment we are making in the USA and Europe (Poland), will make a significant difference to how we operate going forward. Having a footprint in the UK, USA and Europe will allow us to trade better in these regions and, potentially, open up financial support for customers looking to buy our defence equipment. Establishing our support and maintenance facility within the US has created greater opportunities for product support contracts within the US Navy.  Moreover, this success within the 'US Naval' market gives us excellent foundations to develop significant growth opportunities within the 'US Land Defence' market.

 

We continue to invest in our capabilities so that we can meet anticipated increases in demand. In addition to our support and maintenance facility, we are also strengthening our USA team, particularly with the appointment of our new VP of Business Development. This brings us a highly experienced and well-connected individual who has an excellent track record of delivering success in the 'Land Defence' market. We are now better placed than ever with a higher profile and enhanced opportunities to provide our customers with a better service worldwide.

 

At the major London Defence Exhibition (DSEI) in September, we were pleased to welcome more potential customers to our stand than at any previous exhibition.  We have also participated in a number of weapon system demonstrations and I am pleased to report that, in every case, our products have performed extremely well and, particularly pleasingly, better than our competitors. 

 

In summary, we are enjoying great success in the 'Naval Systems' market with the US Navy and other navies, as well as opening up opportunities in the much larger market for our 'Land Systems'. The MSI profile continues to grow and, combined with the considerable investment we have made in the global defence market, it augers well for our future.

 

'Forgings'

 

Market conditions remain mixed across the division. The UK and US businesses continue to experience soft demand, primarily driven by uncertainty surrounding US trade policy and the evolving tariff environment. Many customers remain cautious, slowing purchasing activity as they reassess sourcing strategies. Despite this, quoting activity remains elevated, particularly in the US, where the medium-term outlook is increasingly positive. Brazil continues to perform well, contributing steady levels of sales and margin. The operation remains efficient and cash-generative, requiring minimal oversight.

 

A major development in the period has been the start of deliveries in the USA to Mitsubishi Logisnext America (MLA), a major lift-truck and material handling manufacturer. Initial volumes have now commenced and customer engagement remains strong. The message from MLA is consistent-they are keen to accelerate volumes and expand the relationship further. In parallel, we are now actively quoting for programmes with other major lift-truck and material handling manufacturers in the USA. Should these opportunities convert, the scale of potential business is substantial.

 

While short-term demand in the UK and US remains subdued, the pipeline of opportunity in America is strong. With MLA deliveries underway and potential awards from other major OEMs, we are well positioned to scale up rapidly. Our production model, cost discipline and system integration give us the flexibility to respond to market volatility and customer requirements as conditions evolve.

 

'Petrol Station Superstructures and Branding'

 

Last autumn, we committed to merge our 'Branding' business with our 'Petrol Station Superstructures' business.  This process is now operationally complete and the combined division is led by Martin Steggles (58), who was previously CEO of our 'Petrol Station Superstructures' business. 

 

The strong performance demonstrated last year by the Group's petrol station 'Petrol Station Superstructures' and 'Branding' divisions, has carried forward into the current trading period, driven by large-scale service station transformation, modernisation and re-imaging programmes by large, well-disciplined independent forecourt retailers.

 

The recent trend towards the development of large new multi-purpose fuel hubs containing traditional fossil fuels, EV charging, retail offerings and 'Food-To-Go' outlets has accelerated with several high-quality projects either completed or under construction at the half-year.

 

The integration of our 'Petrol Station Superstructures' and our 'Branding' divisions has been positively recognised by the larger fuel retailers who increasingly accept the value in placing structures and branding contracts with the Group's closely aligned forecourt businesses. 

 

As market-leading specialists in the design, manufacture, installation, maintenance, repair, branding and re-styling of fuel forecourts, with unique in-house capability across all functions, we are well positioned to capitalise on many exciting opportunities for existing customers and new market entrants.

 

Plans are underway to increase manufacturing capacity in the 'Branding' business as it continues to increase market share and widen its customer base. Similarly, the 'Petrol Station Superstructures' business is seeing greater demand for its services from customers adding 'Food-To-Go' and 'Drive-Thru' food & drink outlets to fuel forecourts.

 

By offering a comprehensive, high-quality and increasingly wide suite of services, the 'Petrol Station Superstructures' and 'Branding' businesses are, together, forging long-term 'prime supplier' relationships with major forecourt retailers seeking rapid, quality, innovative solutions to increasingly complex forecourt schemes.

 

Shareholder Communications

 

I was pleased to welcome a record number of attendees at our AGM in August, which was testimony to the wider interest in the Group and the recent share price performance.  It was significant that almost all the questions focussed on the future of our 'Defence and Security' business.

 

Shore Capital, our broker, has given the Company invaluable support for several years especially as our 'nomad'. I am pleased to say that Shore Capital has now been given a more extensive and proactive brief to reflect the increased investor interest in MS INTERNATIONAL plc.

 

They have helped plan institutional investor visits to our impressive 'Defence and Security' division in Norwich.  The feedback from these visits has been very encouraging.  As interest in MSI increases, we will look to expand our liaison with existing and potential investors.

 

Outlook

 

We enter another significant calendar year for the business as we look to focus on the 'Defence and Security' division.  In an increasingly uncertain world, it is difficult to predict our pace of growth, but I cannot remember a time when we have had so much interest in our products.

 

Many of the world's economies are challenged so, whilst a desire to increase defence spending remains high, the ability to do so quickly will vary by country.  I believe we are very well placed to benefit once this desire is converted into a firm commitment to spend. This benefit will accrue over the many years to come.  As I stated earlier, our medium to long term prospects are better than at any time in the Company's history.

 

I would like to thank all our shareholders for their continued support and interest in the business.  The Board recommends payment of an increased interim dividend of 6p (2024 - 5p) per share to be paid on 20th February 2026 to those shareholders on the register of members at the close of business on 23rd January 2026.

 

 

 

 

Michael Bell                                                                                                                              13th January 2026

 

 

 

 

 

 

MS INTERNATIONAL plc 

 

 

Michael Bell

 

Tel: 01302 322133


 


Shore Capital (Nominated Adviser and Broker)

 

 

Patrick Castle/Daniel Bush/Lucy Bowden

 

Tel: 020 7408 4090


 

 



 

Independent review report to MS INTERNATIONAL plc

 

Conclusion

 

We have been engaged by MS INTERNATIONAL plc (the 'company')  to review the condensed set of financial statements in the half-yearly financial report for the six months ended 31 October 2025 which comprises the Interim condensed consolidated income statement, Interim condensed consolidated statement of comprehensive income, Interim condensed consolidated statement of financial position, interim consolidated statement of changes in equity, Interim consolidated cash flow statement and Notes to the interim consolidated financial statements. We have read the other information contained in the half-yearly financial report which comprises only the the Chairman's statement and considered whether it contains any apparent misstatements or material inconsistencies with the information in the condensed set of financial statements.


Based on our review, nothing has come to our attention that causes us to believe that the condensed set of financial statements in the half-yearly financial report for the six months ended 31 October 2025 is not prepared, in all material respects, in accordance with UK-adopted International Accounting Standard (IAS) 34, 'Interim Financial Reporting' and the AIM rules for Companies.


Basis for conclusion

 

We conducted our review in accordance with International Standard on Review Engagements (UK) 2410, "Review of Interim Financial Information Performed by the Independent Auditor of the Entity" issued by Financial Reporting Council for use in the United Kingdom (ISRE (UK) 2410). A review of interim financial information consists of making inquiries, primarily of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters, and applying analytical and other review procedures. A review is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) and consequently does not enable us to obtain assurance that we would become aware of all significant matters that might be identified in an audit. Accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion.


As disclosed in note 2, the annual financial statements of the group are prepared in accordance with UK-adopted international accounting standards. The condensed set of financial statements included in this half yearly financial report has been prepared in accordance with UK- adopted International Accounting Standard 34, 'Interim Financial Reporting'.


We have read the other information contained in the half-yearly financial report which comprises only the Chairman's Statement and considered whether it contains any apparent misstatements or material inconsistencies with the information in the condensed set of financial statements.



Conclusions relating to going concern

 

Based on our review procedures, which are less extensive than those performed in an audit as described in the Basis of conclusion section of this report, nothing has come to our attention to suggest that management have inappropriately adopted the going concern basis of accounting or that management have identified material uncertainties relating to going concern that are not appropriately disclosed.


This conclusion is based on the review procedures performed in accordance with this ISRE (UK), however future events or conditions may cause the entity to cease to continue as a going concern.


In our evaluation of the directors' conclusions, we considered the inherent risks associated with the group's business model including effects arising from macro-economic uncertainties such as high interest and inflation rates, we assessed and challenged the reasonableness of estimates made by the directors and the related disclosures and analysed how those risks might affect the group's financial resources or ability to continue operations over the going concern period.



Directors' responsibilities

 

The half-yearly financial report is the responsibility of, and has been approved by, the directors. The directors are responsible for preparing the half-yearly financial report in accordance with UK-adopted International Accounting Standard (IAS) 34, 'Interim Financial Reporting' and the AIM rules for Companies.


In preparing the half-yearly financial report, the directors are responsible for assessing the company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.


Auditor's responsibilities for the review of the financial information

 

In reviewing the half-yearly report, we are responsible for expressing to the Company a conclusion on the condensed set of financial statements in the half-yearly financial report.

Our conclusion, including our Conclusions relating to going concern, are based on procedures that are less extensive than audit procedures, as described in the Basis for conclusion paragraph of this report.


Use of our report

 

This report is made solely to the company in accordance with ISRE (UK) 2410. Our review work has been undertaken so that we might state to the company those matters we are required to state to it in an independent review report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the company, for our review work, for this report, or for the conclusion we have formed.





Grant Thornton UK LLP

Statutory Auditor, Chartered Accountants

Leeds

13th January 2026


Interim condensed consolidated income statement

 






Half-year to 31st October 2025

 

Half-year to 31st October 2024



unaudited

 

unaudited


Notes

£'000

 

£'000






Revenue

5/6

55,814

 

54,718






Cost of sales


(35,403)

 

(36,154)

Gross profit

 

20,411

 

18,564






Distribution costs


(2,411)

 

(2,102)

Administrative expenses


(9,350)

 

(9,226)

Derivative (losses)/gains

15

(806)

 

788

Operating profit

6

7,844

 

8,024






Finance income


628

 

748

Other finance costs - pension


-  

 

-

Profit before taxation

 

8,472

 

8,772






Tax expense

7

(2,202)

 

(2,326)

Profit for the period attributable to equity holders of the parent

 

6,270

 

6,446

Basic earnings per share

8

38.5p

 

39.8p

Diluted earnings per share

8

37.6p

 

38.3p





















Interim condensed consolidated statement of comprehensive income





Half-year to 31st October 2025

 

Half-year to 31st October 2024



unaudited

 

unaudited


Notes

£'000

 

£'000






Profit for the period attributable to equity holders of the parent

 

6,270

 

6,446

Exchange differences on retranslation of foreign operations


(530)

 

649

Net other comprehensive (loss)/income to be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods

 

(530)

 

649

Net other comprehensive income not being reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods

 

-  

 

-

Total comprehensive income for the period attributable to equity holders of the parent

 

5,740

 

7,095

 






Interim condensed consolidated statement of financial position

 


 








 


Notes

31st October 2025

 

31st October 2024 Restated (note 17)


30th April 2025

 



unaudited

 

unaudited


audited

 

ASSETS

 

£'000

 

£'000


£'000

 

Non-current assets

 






 

Property, plant and equipment

10

31,327

 

28,628


30,257

 

Right-of-use assets

11

213

 

560


385

 

Intangible assets


2,630

 

2,413


2,367

 

Deferred income tax asset


4

 

12


7

 

Derivative asset

15

-  

 

293


-  

 

Contract assets


444

 

-  


428

 



34,618

 

31,906


33,444

 








 

Current assets

 






 

Inventories


25,521

 

37,506


30,733

 

Derivative asset

15

435

 

1,702


1,134

 

Trade and other receivables


32,015

 

22,362


33,669

 

Contract assets


2,646

 

7,211


7,376

 

Cash and cash equivalents

12

34,323

 

27,853


23,745

 

Restricted cash held in Escrow

12

1,403

 

4,170


4,038

 



96,343

 

100,804


100,695

 

TOTAL ASSETS

 

130,961

 

132,710


134,139

 








 

EQUITY AND LIABILITIES

 






 

Equity

 






 

Share capital


1,784

 

1,784


1,784

 

Capital redemption reserve


957

 

957


957

 

Other reserve


2,815

 

2,815


2,815

 

Revaluation reserve


8,246

 

9,923


8,246

 

Special reserve


1,629

 

1,629


1,629

 

Currency translation reserve


(702)

 

42


(172)

 

Treasury shares


(6,608)

 

(7,683)


(7,387)

 

Retained earnings


56,653

 

43,262


53,317

 

TOTAL EQUITY SHAREHOLDERS' FUNDS

 

64,774

 

52,729


61,189

 








 

Non-current liabilities

 






 

Contract liabilities


15,739

 

7,477


7,208

 

Deferred income tax liability


1,722

 

2,104


2,242

 

Derivative liabilities

15

49

 

-  


-  

 

Lease liabilities


15

 

219


61

 

Trade and other payables


-  

 

-  


623

 



17,525

 

9,800


10,134

 








 

Current liabilities

 






 

Trade and other payables


17,090

 

17,063


16,793

 

Contract liabilities


31,300

 

52,740


45,670

 

Derivative liabilities

15

58

 

-  


-  

 

Lease liabilities


214

 

378


353

 



48,662

 

70,181


62,816

 

TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES

 

130,961

 

132,710


134,139

 








 

The interim condensed consolidated financial statements of the Group for the six months ended 31st October 2025 were authorised for issue in accordance with a resolution of the directors on 13th January 2026 and signed on their behalf by:

 








 








 

Shelley Ashcroft







 

Finance Director







 

 

 



 

Interim consolidated statement of changes in equity

 































Share capital


Capital redemption reserve


Other reserve


Revaluation reserve


Special reserve


Currency translation reserve


Treasury shares


Retained earnings


Total

 


£'000


£'000


£'000


£'000


£'000


£'000


£'000


£'000


£'000

 



















At 30th April 2024 (previously reported)


1,784


957


2,815


9,923


1,629


(607)


(3,702)


37,998


50,797

Prior year adjustment (note 17)









1,663


1,663

At 30th April 2024 (restated)


1,784


957


2,815


9,923


1,629


(607)


(3,702)


39,661


52,460

Profit for the period









6,446


6,446

Other comprehensive income







649




649

Equity settled share-based payment expense









36


36

Deferred tax on equity settled share-based payment expense









(9)


(9)

Purchase of own shares








(4,483)



(4,483)

Exercise of share options








502


(169)


333

Dividend paid









(2,703)


(2,703)

At 31st October 2024 (restated)

 

1,784

 

957

 

2,815

 

9,923

 

1,629

 

42

 

(7,683)

 

43,262

 

52,729

Profit for the period









8,085


8,085

Other comprehensive (loss)/income





(1,677)



(214)



2,809


918

Equity settled share-based payment expense









42


42

Deferred tax on share option relief









192


192

Deferred tax on equity settled share-based payment expense









9


9

Exercise of share options








296


(278)


18

Dividend paid









(804)


(804)

At 30th April 2025

 

1,784

 

957

 

2,815

 

8,246

 

1,629

 

(172)

 

(7,387)

 

53,317

 

61,189

Profit for the period









6,270


6,270

Other comprehensive loss







(530)




(530)

Equity settled share-based payment expense









36


36

Deferred tax on equity settled share-based payment expense









477


477

Exercise of share options








779


(509)


270

Dividend paid









(2,938)


(2,938)

At 31st October 2025

 

1,784

 

957

 

2,815

 

8,246

 

1,629

 

(702)

 

(6,608)

 

56,653

 

64,774




















 



 

Interim consolidated cash flow statement

 






Half-year to 31st October 2025

 

Half-year to 31st October 2024



unaudited

 

unaudited



£'000

 

£'000






Profit before taxation


8,472

 

8,772

Adjustments to reconcile profit before taxation to cash generated from operating activates:

 



Depreciation charge of owned and right-of-use assets


1,327

 

1,232

Amortisation charge


42

 

45

Profit on disposal of property, plant and equipment


(49)

 

(121)

Net finance income


(628)

 

(748)

Equity settled share-based payment expense


36

 

36

Foreign exchange (gains)/losses


(876)

 

266

Decrease/(increase) in inventories


5,397

 

(12,379)

Decrease in receivables


6,031

 

670

Decrease/(increase) in derivatives


806

 

(788)

Decrease in payables


(1,855)

 

(3,698)

(Decrease)/increase in contract liabilities


(6,092)

 

8,545

Cash generated from operating activities

 

12,611

 

1,832

Net interest received


634

 

761

Taxation paid


(189)

 

(4,301)

Net cash inflow/(outflow) from operating activities

 

13,056

 

(1,708)



 



Investing activities

 




Purchase of property, plant and equipment


(2,061)

 

(1,974)

Purchase of intangible assets


(304)

 

Proceeds on disposal of property, plant and equipment


73

 

173

Decrease in restricted cash held in Escrow maturing in more than 90 days


2,635

 

3,000

Net cash inflow from investing activities

 

343

 

1,199






Financing activities

 




Buy back of own shares


 

(4,483)

Proceeds from exercise of employee share options


270

 

333

Lease payments


(202)

 

(198)

Dividend paid


(2,937)

 

(2,703)

Net cash outflow from financing activities

 

(2,869)

 

(7,051)

Increase in cash and cash equivalents

 

10,530

 

(7,560)

Opening cash and cash equivalents


23,745

 

35,509

Exchange differences on cash and cash equivalents


48

 

(96)

Closing cash and cash equivalents

 

34,323

 

27,853






 



 

Notes to the interim consolidated financial statements

 






1.     Corporate information

 







MS INTERNATIONAL plc is a public limited company incorporated and domiciled in England and Wales. The Company's ordinary shares are traded on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) market of the London Stock Exchange. The principal activities of the Company and its subsidiaries ("the Group") are the design, manufacture, construction, and servicing of a range of engineering products and structures. These activities are grouped into the following divisions:





'Defence and Security' - design, manufacture, and service of defence equipment.







'Forging' - manufacture of fork-arms and open die forgings.







'Petrol Station Superstructures and Branding' - the design, manufacture, construction, and maintenance of petrol station

superstructures and the design, manufacture, installation, and service of corporate brandings, including media facades, way

finding signage, public illumination, creative lighting solutions, and the complete appearance of petrol station superstructures

and forecourts.





2.     Basis of preparation and accounting policies

 







The consolidated condensed interim financial statements included in this half-yearly financial report have been prepared in accordance with International Accounting Standard 34, "Interim Financial Reporting". They do not include all the information and disclosures required in annual financial statements, and should therefore be read in conjunction with the Group's Annual Report for the year ended 30th April 2025 and any public announcements made by MS INTERNATIONAL plc during the interim reporting period. The financial statements for the year ended 30th April 2025 have been filed with the Registrar of Companies. The auditor's report on these financial statements was unmodified and did not contain statements under sections 498 (2) or (3) of the Companies Act 2006.





The interim financial information has been reviewed but not audited by the Group's auditor, Grant Thornton UK LLP. The interim financial information does not constitute full financial information within the meaning of section 434 of the Companies Act 2006. The auditor's report is included on pages 5-6.





The accounting policies are consistent with those applied in the financial statements of the Annual Report for year ended 30th April 2025. The Group has not early adopted any standard, interpretation, or amendment that has been issued but is not yet effective.





The assets and liabilities of the overseas subsidiaries are translated into the presentational currency of the Group at the rate of exchange ruling at the statement of financial position date and their income statements are translated at the weighted average exchange rates for the year. The exchange differences arising on the translation are taken directly to a separate component of equity.





3.     Principal risks and uncertainties

 







The principal risks and uncertainties facing the Group for the remaining six months of the financial year are discussed below. Further details of the Group's risks and uncertainties can be found on page 10 of the Annual Report for the year ended 30th April 2025, which is available from MS INTERNATIONAL plc's website: www.msiplc.com.





One of the Group's principal risks and uncertainties continues to be the impact of foreign exchange fluctuations. A number of international contracts in the 'Defence and Security' division are denominated in USD. Management have taken steps to mitigate the risk of currency exposures on these contracts by taking out various forward contracts (note 15). As the Group has chosen not to adopt hedge accounting, the derivative gains and losses arising from the change in the fair value of the forward contracts are included within operating profit.





As the group's performance is largely dependent on the retention of key members of staff, including senior management, technical staff and product development teams, this is another key risk for the Group. Given the growth of the Group, particularly in the 'Defence and Security' division, recruitment and training of employees with the right skills is key to driving value.


Another risk and uncertainty for the Group is general economic and political conditions, which can potentially impact customer demand. Significant investment into production facilities and product development continues, which places the Group in a strong position to be able to maintain competitive advantage and exploit new opportunities.





4.     Going concern

 







The condensed interim financial statements included in this report have been prepared on a going concern basis. Forecasts have been made up to 30th April 2027, which the Directors believe to be a reasonable expectation based on the information available at the time of signing these accounts. The forecasts have been assessed for the impact of potential sensitivities, including delays in progress payments across the Group. In all scenarios, the Group has sufficient headroom to meet its liabilities as they fall due.

 

In addition, management have carried out reverse stress tests to 30th April 2027 under various scenarios, all of which are considered implausible by management. In all plausible scenarios, the Group would continue as a going concern for at least the next 12 months.

 

As a result, in making the going concern assessment the Directors believe there to be no material uncertainties that could cast significant doubt on the Group's ability to continue operating as a going concern. The Group has sufficient financial resources with a healthy order book to continue operating for the foreseeable future, being at least to 30th April 2027. As a result, the Directors continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparation of this report.

 

5.     Revenue

 

The Group's revenue disaggregated by pattern of revenue recognition is as follows:

 



Half-year to 31st October 2025


Half-year to 31st October 2024



unaudited


unaudited



£'000


£'000




 


Revenue recognised at a point in time


52,415

 

52,597

Revenue recognised over time


3,399

 

2,121

Total revenue


55,814

 

54,718

 

 

 

 6.     Segment information

 




















 

 





















The following table presents segmental revenue and operating profit/(loss) as well as segmental assets and liabilities of the Group's divisions for the half-year periods ended 31st October 2025 and 31st October 2024. This includes 'Defence and Security', 'Forgings' and 'Petrol Station Superstructures and Branding'. Following a restructure of the Group during the period, the previously reported 'Corporate Branding' segment now forms part of the 'Petrol Station Superstructures and Branding' division. The prior year has also been restated for comparative purposes.


These divisions are the basis on which the Group reports its primary business segment information. The Board, which includes the chief operating decision maker, considers each trading division as a separate operating segment and monitors the operating results of its business units separately for the purpose of making decisions about resource allocation and performance assessment. Group financing (including finance costs and finance income) and income taxes are managed on a group basis and are therefore not allocated to operating segments.






    'Defence and Security'


'Forgings'

'Petrol Station Superstructures and Branding'

    Total







 

 



2025

 

2024


2025

 

2024


2025

 

2024


2025

 

2024



















unaudited

 

unaudited



 

 



£'000

 

£'000


£'000

 

£'000


£'000

 

£'000


£'000

 

£'000

Segmental revenue

 




















Total revenue


31,223

 

35,261


6,882

 

7,664


17,891

 

12,069


55,996

 

54,994

Revenue from other segments




 


(182)

 

(276)


(182)

 

(276)

Revenue from external customers


31,223

 

35,261


6,882

 

7,664


17,709

 

11,793


55,814

 

54,718



 

 



 

 



 

 



 

 



 

 


Revenue recognised at a point in time


27,824

 

33,140


6,882

 

7,664


17,709

 

11,793


52,415

 

52,597

Revenue recognised over time


3,399

 

2,121


 


 


3,399

 

2,121

Revenue from external customers


31,223

 

35,261


6,882

 

7,664


17,709

 

11,793


55,814

 

54,718



 

 



 

 



 

 



 

 




 

 



 

 



 

 



 

 



 

 


Segment result

 

 

 



 

 



 

 



 

 



 

 


Operating profit/(loss)


6,557

 

6,664


(183)

 

344


1,470

 

1,016


7,844

 

8,024



 

 



 

 



 

 



 

 



 

 


Segmental assets


 

 



 

 



 

 



 

 



 

 


Assets attributable to segments


91,547

 

81,684


5,887

 

6,314


13,923

 

16,033


111,357

 

104,031

Unallocated assets*


 

 



 

 



 

 



19,604

 

28,679

Total assets


 

 



 

 



 

 



130,961

 

132,710



 

 



 

 



 

 



 

 



 

 


Segmental liabilities


 

 



 

 



 

 



 

 



 

 


Liabilities attributable to segments


55,918

 

67,541


853

 

1,668


5,918

 

6,522


62,689

 

75,731

Unallocated liabilities*


 



 



 

 



3,498

 

4,250

Total liabilities


 

 



 

 



 

 



66,187

 

79,981



 

 



 

 



 

 



 

 



 

 


Other segmental information


 

 



 

 



 

 



 

 



 

 


Capital expenditure


1,932

 

1,373


19

 

258


110

 

343


2,061

 

1,974

Depreciation


579

 

459


270

 

292


478

 

481


1,327

 

1,232

Amortisation


21

 

23


 

22


21

 


42

 

45











































*  Unallocated assets include certain fixed assets (including all UK properties), current assets, and deferred income tax assets. Unallocated liabilities include the defined benefit pension scheme liability, the deferred income tax liability, and certain current liabilities.

 

Assets and liabilities attributable to segments comprise the assets and liabilities of each segment adjusted to reflect the elimination of the cost of investment in subsidiaries and the provision of financing loans provided by MS INTERNATIONAL plc.

 

Revenue between segments is determined on an arm's length basis. Segment results, assets, and liabilities include items directly attributable to the segment as well as those that can be allocated on a reasonable basis.

 

The segment information for 'Petrol Station Superstructures and Branding' now includes the previously reported 'Corporate Branding' division. This follows a group restructure during the period.

 

 

7.     Tax expense

 










The income tax expense is recognised in each interim period based on the best estimate of the weighted average annual income tax rate expected for the full financial year.







The major components of the tax expense in the consolidated income statement are:






Half-year to 31st October 2025

 

Half-year to 31st October 2024




unaudited

 

unaudited




£'000

 

£'000







Current tax expense


2,251

 

2,259

Deferred tax (income)/expense


(49)

 

67

Total tax expense reported in the Interim condensed consolidated income statement


2,202

 

2,326







Tax relating to items charged directly to equity:



Half-year to 31st October 2025


Half-year to 31st October 2024



unaudited


unaudited



£'000


£'000






Deferred tax on share option relief


(477)


Deferred tax in the Interim condensed consolidated statement of comprehensive income


(477)














8.     Earnings per share

 










The calculation of basic earnings per share of 38.5p (2024 - 39.8p) is based on the profit for the period attributable to equity holders of the parent of £6,270,000 (2024 - £6,446,000) and on a weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue of 16,393,825 (2024 - 16,177,305). At 31st October 2025 there were 487,214 (2024 - 820,020) potentially dilutive shares on option with a weighted average effect of 397,441 (2024 - 636,234) giving a diluted earnings per share of 37.6p (2024 - 38.3p).

 









Half-year to 31st October 2025


Half-year to 31st October 2024



unaudited


unaudited






Weighted average number of shares in issue


17,841,073


17,841,073

Less weighted average number of shared held in the ESOT


(5,317)


(32,093)

Less weighted average number of shares purchased by the Company


(1,541,931)


(1,631,675)

Weighted average number of shares to be used in basic EPS calculation


16,293,825


16,177,305

Weighted average number of the 487,214 (2024 - 820,020) potentially dilutive shares


397,441


636,234

Weighted average diluted shares


16,691,266


16,813,539






Profit for the period attributable to equity holders to the parent in £


6,270,000


6,446,000

Basic earnings per share


38.5p


39.8p

Diluted earnings per share


37.6p


38.3p

 

 

9.     Dividends paid and proposed

 







Half-year to 31st October 2025

 

Half-year to 31st October 2024




unaudited

 

unaudited




£'000

 

£'000

Declared and paid during the six month period

 




Final dividend on ordinary shares for 2025 - 18p (2024 - 16.5p)


2,938

 

2,703

Proposed for approval

 




Interim dividend on ordinary shares for 2026 - 6p (2025 - 5p)


984

 

804







The interim dividend will be payable on 20th February 2026 to those shareholders on the register at the close of business on 23rd January 2026, with the ex-dividend date being 22nd January 2026.

 

10.    Property, plant and equipment

 













At 31st October 2025 (unaudited)

 








Freehold


Plant and





property


equipment


Total

 

 

£'000


£'000


£'000

Cost or valuation

 






At 30th April 2025


23,933


21,787


45,720

Additions


966


1,095


2,061

Disposals


  - 


(165)


(165)

Exchange differences


166


131


297

At 31st October 2025

 

25,065

 

22,848

 

47,913

 







Accumulated depreciation

 






At 30th April 2025


  - 


15,463


15,463

Depreciation charge for the period


114


1,030


1,144

Disposals


  - 


(141)


(141)

Exchange differences


2


118


120

At 31st October 2025

 

116

 

16,470

 

16,586

Net book value at 31st October 2025


24,949

 

6,378

 

31,327

 







Analysis of cost or valuation

 






At professional valuation


24,099


  - 


24,099

At cost


966


22,848


23,814

At 31st October 2025

 

25,065

 

22,848

 

47,913

 







 

 

At 31st October 2024 (unaudited)

 








Freehold


Plant and





property


equipment


Total

 


£'000


£'000


£'000

Cost or valuation

 






At 30th April 2024


23,387


20,090


43,477

Additions


808


1,166


1,974

Disposals


  - 


(595)


(595)

Exchange differences


(184)


(136)


(320)

At 31st October 2024

 

24,011

 

20,525

 

44,536

 







Accumulated depreciation

 






At 30th April 2024


805


14,719


15,524

Depreciation charge for the period


217


835


1,052

Disposals


  - 


(543)


(543)

Exchange differences


(11)


(114)


(125)

At 31st October 2024

 

1,011

 

14,897

 

15,908

Net book value at 31st October 2024


23,000

 

5,628

 

28,628

 







Analysis of cost or valuation

 






At professional valuation


21,377


  - 


21,377

At cost


2,634


20,525


23,159

At 31st October 2024

 

24,011

 

20,525

 

44,536

 

 







 

At 30th April 2025 (audited)

 






 



Freehold


Plant and



 



property


equipment


Total

 

 


£'000


£'000


£'000

 

Cost or valuation

 






 

At 30th April 2024


23,387


20,090


43,477

 

Additions


1,303


2,430


3,733

 

Disposals


  - 


(944)


(944)

 

Revaluation


(136)


  - 


(136)

 

Reclassification


(360)


360


  - 

 

Exchange differences


(261)


(149)


(410)

 

At 30th April 2025

 

23,933

 

21,787

 

45,720

 

 







 

Accumulated depreciation

 






 

At 30th April 2024


805


14,719


15,524

 

Depreciation charge for the year


437


1,720


2,157

 

Disposals


  - 


(857)


(857)

 

Revaluation


(1,216)


  - 


(1,216)

 

Reclassification


(3)


3


  - 

 

Exchange differences


(23)


(121)


(144)

 

At 30th April 2025

 

  - 

 

15,463

 

15,463

 

Net book value at 30th April 2025


23,933

 

6,324

 

30,257

 

 







 

Analysis of cost or valuation

 






 

At professional valuation


23,933


  - 


23,933

 

At cost


  - 


21,787


21,787

 

At 30th April 2025

 

23,933

 

21,787

 

45,720

 

 







 

The last formal valuation of the Group's land and buildings, which consists of manufacturing and office facilities in the UK, the USA and Poland, was carried out in March 2025 by Dove Haigh Phillips (UK), Integra Realty Resources (USA), and KonSolid-Nieruchomosci (Poland). Management determined that these constitute one class of asset under IFRS 13 (designated as level 3 fair value assets), based on the nature, characteristics and risks of the properties.

 








 

The properties in the UK were valued on the basis of an existing use value in accordance with the Appraisal and Valuation Standards (5th Edition) published by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. The Polish property was valued based on the income approach, converting anticipated future benefits in the form of rental income into present value. The US property was valued on an income and market value basis. For all properties, there is no difference between current use and highest and best use.


 

 

11.     Right-of-use assets

 

















At 31st October 2025 (unaudited)

 














Property


Total

 

 





£'000


£'000

 









Cost or valuation

 








At 30th April 2025






2,196


2,196

Exchange differences

 

 

 



82


82

At 31st October 2025

 

 

 

 

 

2,278

 

2,278

 









Accumulated depreciation

 








At 30th April 2025






1,811


1,811

Depreciation charge for the period






183


183

Exchange differences

 

 

 



71


71

At 31st October 2025

 

 

 

 

 

2,065

 

2,065

Net book value at 31st October 2025

 

 


 

 

213

 

213

 


















At 31st October 2024 (unaudited)

 














Property


Total

 

 





£'000


£'000

 









Cost or valuation

 








At 30th April 2024






2,243


2,243

Exchange differences

 

 

 



(68)


(68)

At 31st October 2024

 

 

 

 

 

2,175

 

2,175

 









Accumulated depreciation

 








At 30th April 2024






1,483


1,483

Depreciation charge for the period






180


180

Exchange differences

 

 

 



(48)


(48)

At 31st October 2024

 

 

 

 

 

1,615

 

1,615

Net book value at 31st October 2024

 

 


 

 

560

 

560

 









At 30th April 2025 (audited)

 














Property


Total

 

 





£'000


£'000

 









Cost or valuation

 








At 30th April 2024






2,243


2,243

Exchange differences

 

 

 



(47)


(47)

At 30th April 2025

 

 

 

 

 

2,196

 

2,196

 









 

 









Accumulated depreciation

 








At 30th April 2024






1,483


1,483

Depreciation charge for the year






357


357

Exchange differences

 

 

 



(29)


(29)

At 30th April 2025

 

 

 

 

 

1,811

 

1,811

Net book value at 30th April 2025

 

 


 

 

385

 

385

 


















12.     Cash and cash equivalents

 





















31st October 2025

 

31st October 2024


30th April 2025





unaudited

 

unaudited


audited





£'000

 

£'000


£'000





 

 




Cash and cash equivalents




34,323

 

27,853


23,745

Restricted cash held in Escrow - maturing in more than 90 days




1,403

 

4,170


Total cash




35,726

 

32,023


27,783










The restricted cash balance held in Escrow provides security to both Lloyds Bank plc and Barclays Bank plc in respect of certain guarantees, indemnities, and performance bonds given by the Group in the ordinary course of business (note 14).

 

13.    Pension liability

 















The Company operates an employee pension scheme called the MS INTERNATIONAL plc Retirement and Death Benefits Scheme ("the Scheme"). IAS 19 requires disclosure of certain information about the Scheme as follows:

 

·      Until 5th April 1997, the Scheme provided defined benefits and these liabilities remain in respect of service prior to 6th April 1997. From 6th April 1997 until 31st May 2007 the Scheme provided future service benefits on a defined contribution basis.

 

·      From 1st June 2007 the Company has operated a defined contribution scheme for its UK employees which is administered by a UK pension provider.

 

·      The last formal valuation of the Scheme was performed at 5th April 2023 by a professionally qualified actuary.

 

·      The Company directly pays the expenses of the Scheme. The total pension scheme expenses incurred by the Company during the period were £153,000 (2024 - £109,000).

 

·      Due to improved funding of the Scheme on a Technical Provisions basis, the last quarterly deficit contribution was made in April 2024. The current Schedule of Contributions requires no further deficit reduction payments to be made and therefore no payments have been made during the period (2024 - £nil).

 

·      At 31st October 2025 the present value of the contracted future deficit reduction contributions was £nil (2024 - £nil), which was less than (2024 - less than) the net scheme surplus of £153,000 (2024 - £544,000). As the Company does not have an unconditional right to the economic benefits arising from this surplus, no liability has been recognised within the financial statements in accordance with IFRIC 14.

 

 

 

14.    Commitments and contingencies

 















The Group is contingently liable in respect of guarantees, indemnities and performance bonds given in the ordinary course of business amounting to £1,403,000 at 31st October 2025 (2024 - £4,170,000). Performance bonds are all within the 'Defence and Security' division and are linked to performance activities such as factory acceptance tests, shipping or delivery of hardware, sea/site acceptance tests, or warranty activities. The cash held in Escrow of £1,403,000 (2024 - £4,170,000) provides security to both Lloyds Bank plc and Barclays Bank plc in respect of these guarantees, indemnities and performance bonds.










In the opinion of the Directors, no material loss will arise in connection with the above matters.










The Group and certain of its subsidiary undertakings are parties to legal actions and claims which have arisen in the normal course of business. The results of actions and claims cannot be forecast with certainty, but the directors believe that they will be concluded without any material effect on the net assets of the Group.

 

 

15.   Derivative financial instruments

 

The Group has in place a number of forward currency contracts in respect of USD denominated cash inflows in the 'Defence and Security' division. During the period, forward currency contracts totalling $28,250,000 at an average exchange rate of 1.3195 have been taken out.

 

The Group has chosen not to adopt hedge accounting with respect to forward exchange contracts and as a result the loss of £806,000 (2024 - profit of £788,000) arising from the change in the fair value during the period has been included within operating profit.

 

At 31st October 2025 (unaudited)


US Dollar
$'000

 

Sterling

£'000

 

Average forward rate

 

Fair value

£'000










Current derivative asset


10,000


8,052


1.2420


435

Current derivative liability


16,531


12,538


1.3185


(49)

Non-current derivative liability


11,719


8,872


1.3209


(58)

Total


38,250


29,462


1.2983


328

 

At 31st October 2024 (unaudited)


US Dollar
$'000

 

Sterling

£'000

 

Average forward rate

 

Balance at period end

£'000










Non-current derivative asset


10,000


8,052


1.2420


293

Current derivative asset


47,500


38,629


1.2296


1,702

Total


57,500


46,681


1.2330


1,995

 

At 30th April 2025 (audited)


US Dollar
$'000

 

Sterling

£'000

 

Average forward rate

 

Balance at period end

£'000










Non-current derivative asset


               -


                         -


                         -


  - 

Current derivative asset


     28,400


              22,412


              1.2672


1,134

Total


     28,400


              22,412


              1.2312


1,134

 

 

 

 

16. Share-based payments

 

During the period, no share options have been granted to employees under the MS INTERNATIONAL plc Company Share Option Plan.

 

Share options totalling 233,656 have been exercised during the period. This includes 50,000 options exercised under the MS INTERNATIONAL plc Long Term Incentive Plan at an exercise price of £0 per share, and a further 183,656 options exercised under the MS INTERNATIONAL Plc Company Share Option Scheme, of which 176,988 were at an exercise price of £1.41 per share and 6,668 were at an exercise price of £3.00 per share.

 

231,656 of the options were satisfied by transferring shares from treasury and the remaining 2,000 options were satisfied by transferring shares from The Employee Share Ownership Trust ("ESOT").

 

The following table illustrate the number and weighted average exercise prices (WAEP) of share options during the year:

 

 



Long-term Incentive Plan

 

Company Share Option Plan

 

Total



Number

 

WAEP

 

Number

 

WAEP

 

Number

 

WAEP














Outstanding at 30th April 2024


150,000 



918,693 


£2.21


1,068,693 


£1.90

Granted in period




12,000 


£9.90


12,000 


£9.90

Exercised in period


(25,000)



(235,673)


£1.41


(260,673)


£1.27

Outstanding at 31st October 2024


125,000 



695,020 


£2.62


820,020 


£2.22

Cancelled in year




(10,816)


£1.41


(10,816)


£1.41

Exercised in period


(75,000)



(13,334)


£1.41


(88,334)


£0.21

Outstanding at 30th April 2025


50,000 



670,870 


£2.63


720,870 


£2.44

Restated in period




10,816 


£1.41


10,816 


£1.41

Cancelled in period





(10,816)


£4.61


(10,816)


£4.61

Exercised in period


(50,000)



(183,656)


£1.47


(233,656)


£1.15

Outstanding at 31st October 2025




487,214 


£2.99


487,214 


£2.99

 

The Group recognised a total charge during the period of £36,000 (2024 - £36,000) in relation to equity-settled share-based payment transactions. At 31st October 2025 there were no exercisable LTIP share options (2024 - 125,000) and 354,148 (2024 - 207,004) share options exercisable under the CSOP share option scheme.

 

17. Prior Year Adjustment

 

 

During the prior year management identified that the Company had not accounted for Part 12 tax relief with respect of share based payments in prior years and the associated deferred tax. The tax relief is equal to the difference between the market value of shares on the date of acquisition less the price paid for the share options. Where the amount of any tax deduction, or estimated future tax deduction, exceeds the cumulative equity settled share-based payment charge expense, the current or deferred tax associated with the excess is recognised directly in equity.

 

As a result, the current tax adjustment of £577,000 and the deferred tax adjustment of £1,086,000 in respect of 30th April 2024 have been recognised directly within equity, increasing retained earnings by £1,663,000.

 

The table below shows the impact of the prior year adjustment on the statement of financial position for the year ended 30th April 2024 and the period ending 31st October 2024. There  is no impact on the consolidated income statement, the consolidated statement of comprehensive income, or the earnings per share for the year ended 30th April 2024 and the period ended 31st October 2024.

 

 

 



April 2024

 

October 2024



April 2024 as previously reported


Prior Year Adjustment


April 2024 as restated


October 2024 as previously reported


Prior year adjustment


October 2024 as restated



£000s


£000s


£000s


£000s


£000s


£000s














Non-current assets













Property, plant and equipment


27,953


-  


27,953


28,628


-  


28,628

Right-of-use assets


760


-  


760


560


-  


560

Intangible assets


2,448


-  


2,448


2,413


-  


2,413

Deferred income tax asset


16


-  


16


12


-  


12

Derivative asset


309


-  


309


293


-  


293

 

 

31,486

 

 - 

 

31,486

 

31,906

 

 - 

 

31,906














Current assets













Inventories


25,250


-  


25,250


37,506


-  


37,506

Derivative asset


898


-  


898


1,702


-  


1,702

Trade and other receivables


28,304


577


28,881


21,785


577


22,362

Contract assets


100


-  


100


7,211


-  


7,211

Cash and cash equivalents


35,509


-  


35,509


27,853


-  


27,853

Restricted cash held in Escrow


7,170


-  


7,170


4,170


-  


4,170



97,231


577


97,808


100,227


577


100,804

TOTAL ASSETS


128,717


577


129,294


132,133


577


132,710

 













Equity













Share capital


1,784


-  


1,784


1,784


-  


1,784

Capital redemption reserve


957


-  


957


957


-  


957

Other reserve


2,815


-  


2,815


2,815


-  


2,815

Revaluation reserve


9,923


-  


9,923


9,923


-  


9,923

Special reserve


1,629


-  


1,629


1,629


-  


1,629

Currency translation reserve


(607)


-  


(607)


42


-  


42

Treasury shares


(3,702)


-  


(3,702)


(7,683)


-  


(7,683)

Retained earnings


37,998


1,663


39,661


41,599


1,663


43,262

TOTAL EQUITY SHAREHOLDERS' FUNDS


50,797


1,663


52,460


51,066


1,663


52,729













 

Non-current liabilities












 

Contract liabilities


10,019


-  


10,019


7,477


-  


7,477

Deferred income tax liability


3,132


(1,086)


2,046


3,190


(1,086)


2,104

Lease liabilities


422


-  


422


219


-  


219



13,573


(1,086)


12,487


10,886


(1,086)


9,800













 

Current liabilities












 

Trade and other payables


21,349


-  


21,349


17,063


-  


17,063

Contract liabilities


42,616


-  


42,616


52,740


-  


52,740

Lease liabilities


382


-  


382


378


-  


378



64,347


 - 


64,347


70,181


 - 


70,181

TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES


128,717


577


129,294


132,133


577


132,710

 

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