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Half-year Report

12 Jun 2018 07:00

RNS Number : 0375R
Schroder Eur Real Est Inv Trust PLC
12 June 2018
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12 June 2018

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SCHRODER EUROPEAN REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUST PLC

HALF YEAR REPORT AND ACCOUNTS

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HALF YEAR RESULTS FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 31 MARCH 2018

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PROFIT INCREASES BY 157% AS PORTFOLIO IS FULLY INVESTED IN WINNING EUROPEAN CITIES

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Schroder European Real Estate Investment Trust plc ("SEREIT" or the "Company"), the company investing in European growth cities, today announces its half year results for the period ended 31 March 2018 as required by the UK Listing Authority's Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rule 4.2.

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Financial Highlights for six months ending 31 March 2018:

β€’ Profit for the six months increased 157% to €10.8 million (31 March 2017: €4.2 million), driven by uplift in portfolio values and growth in net income

β€’ Net asset value ('NAV') total return of 6.1% (31 March 2017: 2.5%)

β€’ 4.9% increase in NAV to €187.1 million, or 139.9 cps (deducting the interim dividend declared in December 2017 and paid in April 2018, the NAV would have been €184.6 million (138.1 cps) as at 31 March 2018)

β€’ EPRA earnings of €6.5 million (31 March 2017: €2.6 million), reflecting the growth in rental income from acquisitions and receipt of €2.4 million of the surrender premium for the Hamburg asset

β€’ Dividend for quarter ended 31 March 2018 of 1.85 cps fully covered from income

β€’ Annualised dividend rate of 5.5% based on the euro equivalent of the issue price as at admission, achieving the target dividend stated at IPO. Total interim dividends declared to date relating to the year ending 30 September 2018 of 3.7 cps, representing a 68% increase over the same period in respect of the year ended 30 September 2017

β€’ Loan to value ('LTV') of 28% (30 September 2017: 22%). The debt has a weighted average total interest rate of 1.3%, is either fixed cost or capped and has a long duration of 6.4 years on average

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Operational highlights

β€’ Company fully invested

β€’ Acquisition of a data centre and office premises in the Netherlands, secured on a long lease to a strong tenant, for a price of €19.8 million, reflecting a net initial yield of 10%

β€’ Continued focus on winning cities and regions with 100% of the portfolio by value located in the faster GDP growth locations in Europe (source: Oxford Economics)

β€’ Lease surrender agreement at Hamburg office in return for a premium of €3.9 million. Provides the opportunity to re-let space in the strong Hamburg market

β€’ Contracted sale of two Casino supermarkets in France at a 10% premium to December 2017 independent valuation

β€’ Portfolio valued at €237.3 million, reflecting an uplift of approximately 9.5% on the combined purchase price

β€’ Successful execution of asset management initiatives across the portfolio, including six new lettings and re-gears across approximately 5,000Β sqm

β€’ Portfolio occupancy of 97% and an unexpired lease term of 6.7 years to expiry.

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Market Outlook

β€’ Eurozone growth continues to drive a strong occupational market

β€’ Low vacancy rates supporting favourable rental growth across the majority of markets the Company is invested in.

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Commenting, Sir Julian Berney Bt., Chairman of the Board, said:

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"This has been an active period for the Company, during which we have delivered growth in NAV, net income and shareholder dividends. We have executed on the strategy outlined at IPO, constructing a high quality real estate portfolio, across the growth cities of western continental Europe. Leveraging its local expertise, Schroders is working on a number of asset management initiatives across the portfolio to grow income and value and coupled with the positive economic backdrop in our target markets, we believe the Company is well positioned for the next stage of growth."

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Jeff O'Dwyer, of Schroder Real Estate Investment Management Limited, added:

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"Our portfolio of assets across winning cities such as Berlin, Hamburg, Stuttgart, Frankfurt and Paris continues to benefit from improving occupational demand and strong investment markets. Combined with the active asset management initiatives that we have been driving, this has generated positive performance.

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"Our immediate priority is to invest the capital that we are receiving from the profitable sale of the two Casino supermarket investments and we are in negotiations on a number of new opportunities in both new and existing sectors. As previously stated, our aspirations are to grow the portfolio through a disciplined and consistent approach centred on enhancing income and shareholder returns."

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For further information:

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Schroder Real Estate Investment Management

Duncan Owen / Jeff O'Dwyer

020 7658 6000

Ria Vavakis

Schroder Investment Management Limited

020 7658 2371

FTI Consulting

Dido Laurimore / Ellie Sweeney / Richard Gotla

020 3727 1000

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A presentation for analysts and investors will be held at 08.45 a.m. BST today at the offices of Schroders plc, 31 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7QA. If you would like to attend, please contact James Lowe at Schroders on +44 (0)20 7658 2083 or james.lowe@Schroders.com

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The Half Year Report is also being published in hard copy format and an electronic copy of that document will shortly be available to download from the Company's website www.schroders.co.uk/its. Please click on the following link to view the document:

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http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/0375R_1-2018-6-11.pdf

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The Company has submitted a pdf of the hard copy format of its Half Year Report to the National Storage Mechanism and it will shortly be available for inspection at www.morningstar.co.uk/uk/NSM.

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A further announcement will be made in due course to confirm the full timetable of the second interim dividend.

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Chairman's Statement

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Overview

During the period the Company has achieved two significant milestones: full investment, following acquisition of an office and data centre in the Netherlands; and growing the dividend to the target level set at IPO. The dividend yield is 5.5% p.a. against the euro equivalent of the issue price as at admission and, based on the Euro:GBP exchange rate as at 31 March 2018, the dividend represents 6.5% p.a. against Β£1 invested at IPO.

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The acquisition in the Netherlands has taken the real estate portfolio to 10 assets, located in growth cities and regions of continental Europe. These markets are benefiting from the continued favourable Eurozone economic outlook and mega-themes such as urbanisation and improving infrastructure.

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In February the Company announced the sale of its interest in the two Casino supermarkets, representing a 10% premium to the 31 December 2017 valuation. Leveraging its extensive European local presence, the Investment Manager is pursuing new investment opportunities for the redeployment of the proceeds that will be received in July. There are also a number of other value and income-enhancing asset management initiatives underway across the portfolio which will maximise performance. Further detail on these matters is set out in the Investment Manager's Review.

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Results

The Company's net asset value ("NAV") at 31 March 2018, excluding non-controlling interests, was €187.1 million or 139.9 euro cents per share (Β£164.4 million or 123.0 pence per share). Including dividends, the NAV total return over the period was 6.1%.

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Including the recognition of the interim dividend declared in December 2017, which went ex-dividend in March 2018 and was paid on 13 April 2018 from income, the Company's NAV would have reduced to €184.6m or 138.1 euro cents per share (Β£162.2 million or 121.3 pence per share).

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The profit for the six month period to 31 March 2018 was €10.8 million and the EPRA earnings were €6.5 million.

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Strategy

The investment strategy is based on targeting high quality assets in winning cities and regions in Continental Europe. The current portfolio demonstrates this, with all of the assets located in cities with GDP growth forecasts in the top two quartiles of all European regions (Source: Oxford Economics).

Our target markets in Europe are benefiting from a broad-based economic recovery, with positive growth forecasts, declining unemployment and inflation under control. Rental growth is returning to most parts of the market as occupier demand for good quality, well-located assets remains healthy and development activity is reasonably subdued. This will be positive for the Company's portfolio andΒ supports our growth ambitions for the Company.

The Investment Manager's in-house research and local teams, which totals 145 people across eight key target markets in Europe, provide a market-leading platform to identify assets fitting the investment strategy. The focus is on locations that are benefiting from supply/demand imbalances, infrastructure improvements and competing land uses. These assets are actively managed by the local teams, with the objective of improving rental income and delivering long-term capital growth.

Execution of this investment strategy has underpinned the delivery of shareholder returns. The Company is keen to build on this by growing in a disciplined way that continues to improve earnings and value and brings additional benefits such as improved share liquidity.

Debt

During the period the Company completed a new €13m debt facility secured against the Saint-Cloud office building in Paris. This loan takes the Company's total third party debt as at 31 March 2018 to €73.4 million, representing a Loan to Value ("LTV") of approximately 28% against the overall gross asset value of the Company.

The Company is focused on maintaining a robust balance sheet and overall leverage is capped at 35% at the time of drawing debt. The debt strategy tailors gearing against those assets most suitable for debt financing. The Company has five debt facilities in place with an average weighted total interest rate of 1.30%. All interest rates are either fixed or capped. Given the positiveΒ yield spread it is likely the Company will draw further debt facilities against future acquisitions and target overall gearing at around the capped level.

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Dividend

The Company has declared a second interim dividend in respect of the year ending 30 September 2018 of 1.85 euro cents per share payable on 20 July 2018 to shareholders on the register on 6 July 2018. The first and second interim dividends in respect of the year ending 30 September 2018 amount to 3.7 euro cents per share, representing a 68% increase compared to dividends declared over the same period in respect of the year ended 30 September 2017.

The dividend is approximately 100% covered from recurring income from the portfolio. This excludes the positive impact of the receipt of €2.4 million in respect of the first payment for the Hamburg lease surrender. Including the Hamburg surrender premium receipt, the dividend cover is 172%.

The latest declared dividend represents an annualised rate of 5.5% based on the euro equivalent of the issue price at admission, achieving the target dividend stated at IPO. Based on the Euro: GBP exchange rate as at 31 March 2018, this equates to an annualised rate of 6.5% on the GBP issue price at IPO of 100 pence per share.

The Company will continue to pursue a progressive dividend policy, which is sustainable from recurring income.

Outlook

Having delivered on the strategy outlined at IPO, the Company is well-positioned for the next phase of its growth. The high quality real estate portfolio across the growth cities of continental Europe provides a strong platform for the Company. It generates an attractive level of stable income which covers the dividend and provides opportunities to grow income and values over the long term.

Occupier demand and rental growth in the target markets of Western Europe is increasing, underpinned by the continued economic growth. This presents an opportunity for the Company and we look forward to working with the Investment Manager to progress the strategy.

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Sir Julian Berney Bt.

Chairman

11 June 2018

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Investment Manager's Report

Results

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The Company's net asset value ("NAV") as at 31 March 2018 stood at €187.1 million (Β£164.4m), or 139.9 euro cents (123.0 pence) per share, achieving a NAV total return for the first six months of the financial year of 6.1%.

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The table below provides an analysis of the movement in NAV during the reporting period as well as a corresponding reconciliation in the movement in the NAV cents per share:

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NAV movement

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€ million1

Β 

Cps2

% change per cps3

Brought forward as at 1 October 2017

178.3

133.3

-

Transaction costs of investments made during the period

(1.3)

(1.0)

(0.8)

Capital expenditure

(0.1)

(0.1)

(0.1)

Unrealised gain in valuation of the real estate portfolio

6.2

4.7

3.5

EPRA earnings

6.5

4.9

3.7

Non-cash items

(0.5)

(0.4)

(0.3)

Dividend paid4

(2.0)

(1.5)

(1.1)

Carried forward as at 31 March 2018

187.1

139.9

4.9

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1Management reviews the performance of the Company principally on a proportionally consolidated basis.Β As a result, figures quoted in this table include the Company's share of joint ventures on a line-by-line basis and exclude non-controlling interests in the Company's subsidiaries

2Based on 133,734,686 shares

3Percentage change based on the starting NAV as at 1 October 2017

4This represents the fourth interim dividend for the year ended 30 September 2017 which was paid in January 2018. The first interim dividend for the year ending 30 September 2018 was paid to investors from prior income on 13 April 2018 and is not included as a NAV movement during the period

Market overview

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The Eurozone has enjoyed its strongest period of growth during the last 10 years with Schroders forecasting that Eurozone GDP will grow by 2-2.5% through 2018-2019. Investment is increasing, while unemployment continues to fall with consumer spending increases. The acceleration in world trade means that external demand in the form of exports should continue to grow. While stronger growth will feed through to higher inflation, Schroders expects it to remain at around 1.5% p.a. over the next couple of years, with the result that the ECB is unlikely to raise interest rates before 2019. The main downside risk is a trade war which would hurt the export-orientated Eurozone.

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Offices

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The economic momentum continues to drive strong demand in most European office markets and vacancy, particularly for modern space in central locations, continues to erode. At the same time, the supply pipeline for the next two years remains muted and new supply is often pre-let. This in turn continues to filter through to broad-based rental growth not just in CBD locations, but also in other established and well-connected office locations.

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Retail

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While consumer spending is rising, much of the growth is generated online with varying effects on the various physical retail formats and sectors. The food sector remains resilient to online sales and the trend away from big hypermarkets to smaller supermarkets, convenience stores and organic food stores continues. Retail warehouses that sell bulky goods or DIY products seem also relatively immune. On the other hand, fashion sees the biggest pressure from online sales. Several smaller chains have fallen into insolvency and major retailers such as H&M and Inditex are closing stores and investing heavily in their websites and logistics. Yet for these brands prime high street unit shops, or a presence in dominant shopping centres, is key for branding and marketing.

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Logistics/warehousing

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In many respects the industrial sector resembles the office market. Logistics take-up in continental Europe hit a new record in 2017, reflecting the cyclical recovery in demand from manufacturers and third party logistics firms (3PLs) and the rapid structural growth in online retail. Although development is increasing, the vast majority of schemes are being built on a pre-let "build to suit" basis and vacancy in most locations remains low. Prime logistics rents increased by 3% on average last year (source: CBRE).

Investment market

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Retail was the one sector where liquidity declined last year. The value of retail investment deals in Continental Europe was 16% lower in 2017 than 2016 (source: RCA). Conversely, office and industrial deals increased while, in the search for yield, investment alternatives such as hotels increased, too. Looking forward, the investment market is likely to remain highly competitive in 2018. While the gap between prime real estate and government bond yields has narrowed since 2015 to around 3.0%, it still looks attractive given the favourable outlook for rental and income growth in most sectors.

Investment progress

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Over the six months since 1 October 2017, the Company completed the following three significant transactions:

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- Purchase completed: The Company acquired a long-term fully leased, three storey office building and data centre in Apeldoorn, The Netherlands for an all-in cost of €21.1 million and generating a net income yield of approximately 10%.

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- Lease surrender completed: The Company agreed terms for City BKK to surrender its lease at the Hamburg office asset in Germany in return for a cash payment to the Company of €3.9 million (of which €2.4 million was received during this period). This €3.9 million cash payment represents 4.7 years of annual rental income from City BKK. Negotiating a surrender with City BKK was a key initiative within the acquisition strategy. The agreement gives the Company the opportunity to reposition the property and re-lease the space into a strengthening office sub-market which will also diversify the property's income profile.

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- Sale committed: The Casino Group has exercised a buy-back option for the Company's 70% interest in two Casino supermarkets in Biarritz and Rennes. The combined sale value for the 70% share is €44.8 million, representing a 10% premium to the 31 December 2017 valuation. The sale will complete on 31 July 2018. The Company will continue to receive rental income from the properties until the sale completes.

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The Company has invested €232 million since IPO and as of today is fully deployed. The sale of the Casino supermarkets in Rennes and Biarritz will provide the Company with investment capacity of approximately €45m-€50m (including further gearing). The Investment Manager is reviewing, and in exclusivity, on a number of new investment opportunities that could be suitable for redeployment of this capital when it is received later in the year.

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Real estate portfolio

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The portfolio comprises 10 institutional grade properties, c.97% let, across winning cities and regions in France, Germany, Spain and the Netherlands. All investments are owned 100% except for the Rennes and Biarritz supermarkets (70% interest) and the Metromar shopping centre, Seville (50% interest).

Β The redeployment of the Casino sale proceeds will be focused on acquiring assets that complement the existing portfolio and maintain good asset diversity, a stable income base and the opportunity for long-term capital growth through active asset management. The Investment Manager has an identified pipeline of acquisitions spanning a number of sectors, including light industrial and logistic investments, and is confident of deploying the capital in the near term.

The table below gives an overview of the portfolio:

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Property

Country

Sector

Contracted rents

Value

€m

% total

€0-€20m

€20m-€40m

€40m-€60m

>€60m

Paris (B-B)

France

Office

2.4

14.8%

Β 

Β 

X

Β 

Paris (SC)

France

Office

3.5

21.7%

Β 

X

Β 

Β 

Berlin

Germany

Retail

1.6

10.0%

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X

Β 

Β 

Seville

Spain

Retail

2.0

12.2%

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X

Β 

Β 

Casino Supermarket, Biarritz*

France

Retail

1.3

7.8%

Β 

X

Β 

Β 

Apeldoorn

Netherlands

Mixed

2.4

14.9%

Β 

X

Β 

Β 

Casino Supermarket, Rennes*

France

Retail

0.9

5.9%

Β 

X

Β 

Β 

Hamburg

Germany

Office

0.5

3.4%

X

Β 

Β 

Β 

Stuttgart

Germany

Office

0.8

5.0%

X

Β 

Β 

Β 

Frankfurt

Germany

Retail

0.7

4.3%

X

Β 

Β 

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Portfolio at 31/03/2018*

16.1

100.0

237.3

Biarritz & Rennes*

France

Retail

2.2

13.8%

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Β 

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Portfolio excluding Casino supermarkets

13.9

86.2%

192.5

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* The value assigned to the Casino supermarkets in this table reflects the option price exercised by the Casino Group. The Casino buy-back prices are at a 10% premium to the 31 December 2017 valuation.

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The portfolio's country and sector allocations, pre and post the Casino supermarket sales, are specified below:

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Country allocation(% contracted rent)

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Β 

Portfolio at 31/03/2018

Portfolio excluding Casino supermarkets

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Sector allocation(% contracted rent)

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Β 

Portfolio at 31/03/2018

Portfolio excluding Casino supermarkets

France

50.2%

42.1%

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Office

44.8%

51.9%

Germany

22.7%

26.4%

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Retail

40.3%

30.8%

Spain

12.2%

14.2%

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Mixed

14.9%

17.3%

Netherlands

14.9%

17.3%

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Other

0.0%

0.0%

Total

100.0%

100.0%

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Total

100.0%

100.0%

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Lease expiry profile

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The 10 asset portfolio is 97% let generating €16.1 million p.a. in contracted income. The rent on all leases is indexed to inflation and individual asset business plans are being implemented to improve future earnings and capital growth potential.

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The average unexpired lease term is 4.6 years to first break and 6.7 years to expiry. Excluding the Casino supermarkets, the contracted rents are €13.9m with average unexpired lease terms to first break and expiry of 4.7Β years and 6.1Β years.

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The lease expiry profile to earliest break is shown below. The near-term lease expiries provide asset management opportunities to renegotiate leases, extend weighted average unexpired lease terms, improve income security and generate rental growth. In turn, this activity benefits NAV total return.

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Top 10 tenants

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The top 10 tenants comprise a wide range of occupiers from different industry segments as shown below:

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Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Tenant

Β 

Β 

Property

Β 

Β 

Tenant risk 1

Contracted rent (€m p.a.)

Β 

Contracted rent (% ) 2

Unexpired lease term (years) 3

1

KPN

Apeldoorn

Low

2.4

15%

8.8

2

Alten

Paris (B-B)

Low

2.3

14%

3.0

3

Casino

Rennes & Biarritz

Low

1.9

12%

4.2

4

Hornbach

Berlin

Low

1.6

10%

7.8

5

Filassistance

Paris (SC)

Low

0.9

5%

1.3

6

LandBW

Stuttgart

Low

0.7

4%

7.9

7

Thesee

Paris (SC)

Medium

0.6

4%

1.4

8

Ethypharm

Paris (SC)

Low

0.5

3%

3.2

9

Moody's

Paris (SC)

Low

0.4

2%

1.3

10

Outscale

Paris (SC)

Low

0.4

2%

2.1

Total top 10 tenants

11.7

71%

5.0

Remaining tenants

4.4

29%

3.3

Total

16.1

100%

4.6

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1 Regular tenant risk assessments are undertaken for the largest tenants. Among other considerations, the Investment Manager's risk assessments are based on Dun & Bradstreet ratings and failure scores

2 Percentage based on total contracted rent as at financial period end

3 Unexpired lease term until earliest termination in years as at 31 March 2018 weighted by contracted rent

Valuation

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The current portfolio value of €237.3 million reflects an increase of 9.5% (€20.5Β million) compared to the combined purchase price of the 10 asset portfolio. Transaction costs have already been fully recovered through valuation uplifts since acquisition.

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The portfolio valuation has increased by 2.8% for the six months to 31 March 2018. Valuation uplift is positive for most assets. The Hamburg office asset was the notable exception as the property had a value decline of -4.2%, reflecting €0.7 million. The main reason for this is the surrender agreed with City BKK for its lease at the Hamburg asset in return for a cash payment to the Company of €3.9 million to be received in two instalments: €2.4 million in 2018 and another €1.5 million to be received in 2019.

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A fall in the Seville valuation has been offset by a corresponding reduction in the initial purchase price as a result of certain purchase conditions being met. The Seville valuation remains above initial purchase price by 1.9%. Including the purchase price reduction, Seville valuation performance was positive for the six months since 1 October 2017.

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With regard to the assets which saw their values increase, the valuation uplift was particularly strong for the properties in Paris Saint-Cloud (+3.8%/€1.3 million), Stuttgart (+2.3%/€0.4 million) and Paris B-B (+1.4%/€0.6 million), all benefiting from strong rental and investment markets.

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The external valuation of the Casino supermarkets remained flat over the six month period. However, the sale price of the buy-back option exercised by the Casino Group is at a 10% premium (€4.1 million) to the current external valuation. Therefore these properties are held at a value reflecting the sale price.

Β 

The newly acquired property in Apeldoorn witnessed a valuation uplift against its purchase price (+2.0%/€0.4 million).

Asset management

Β 

We manage each asset around an identified business plan, constructed by our local real estate professionals and approved by the Investment Manager's investment committee. Our asset management expertise assists in de-risking assets, enhancing income profiles and positioning investments to benefit from occupier demand and ultimately growth, all positively contributing to the delivery of the Company's return performance.

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Fauststraat 1,Β Apeldoorn, the Netherlands

Β 

Β· Acquired in February 2018 for a purchase price of €19.8 million

Β· Valuation at 31 March 2018: €20.2 million

Β· Lettable area: c.23,700 sq.m

Β· Investment rationale:

ΓΌ Attractive nine year income stream from a strong tenant;

ΓΌ Established and strategic location c.1 hour from Amsterdam;

ΓΌ Longer term alternative use potential;

ΓΌ Mixed-use asset comprising data centre/office use; and

ΓΌ The technology (ICT) influence provides additional portfolio

diversification into a growth sector

Β 

Due to the core, long-term lease profile asset management initiatives are limited in the short term. In the longer term we continue to explore alternative use potential.

Β 

Boulevard Jean Jaurès, Boulogne-Billancourt (Paris) 92100, France 

Β 

Β· Acquired in March 2016 for a purchase price of €37.5 million

Β· Valuation at 31 March 2018: €42.1 million

Β· Lettable area: c.6,900 sq.m

Β· Investment rationale:

ΓΌ Mixed-use area with a high incidence of competing uses;

ΓΌ Affordable and sustainable rents;

ΓΌ Supply-constrained location; and

ΓΌ Modest capital value per sq.m

Β 

Asset management over the period centred on the investigation of alternative use potential and liaising with the tenant to advance longer term occupational intentions.

Β 

Großbeerenstraße, 12107 Berlin, Germany

Β 

Β· Acquired in March 2016 for a purchase price of €24.3 million

Β· Valuation at 31 March 2018: €26.0 million

Β· Lettable area: c.16,800 sq.m

Β· Investment rationale:

ΓΌ Above average population growth;

ΓΌ Supply-constrained location;

ΓΌ Mixed-use area with a high incidence of competing uses; and

ΓΌ Large site area of 4 hectares

Β 

Due to the core, long-term lease profile, asset management initiatives are limited in the short-term. We continue to explore ways to utilise the site to a greater density and income potential.

Β 

Neckarstraße, 70190, Stuttgart, Germany

Β· Acquired in April 2016 for a purchase price of €14.4million

Β· Valuation at 31 March 2018: €15.6 million

Β· Lettable area: c.5,800 sq.m

Β· Investment rationale:

ΓΌ Supply-constrained location;

ΓΌ Mixed-use area with a high incidence of competing uses;

ΓΌ Affordable/sustainable rents; and

ΓΌ Improving infrastructure driven by the neighbouring "Stuttgarter 21" redevelopment

Β 

Asset management over the period has centred on improving neighbouring fire certification conformance.

Β 

Hammerbrookstraße, 20097, Hamburg, Germany

Β 

Β· Acquired in April 2016 for a purchase price of €14.4 million

Β· Valuation at 31 March 2018: €16.0 million

Β· Lettable area: c.7,000 sq.m

Β· Investment rationale:

ΓΌ Modest capital value per sq.m;

ΓΌ Mixed-use area with a high incidence of competing uses;

ΓΌ The City-Sud sub-market is one stop from the city centre and is evolving as a destination where people want to live, work and socialise;

ΓΌ Affordable/sustainable rents that represent approximately a third of the prime city centre; and

ΓΌ Location has medium to longer term growth potential

Β 

Asset management over the period included the negotiation of the €3.9 million lease surrender premium with City BKK. With vacancy rates in the sub-market falling substantially, we felt now was the right time to take on leasing risk and utilise our asset management expertise to de-risk.

Β 

Lorscher Straße, 60489, Frankfurt - Rodelheim, Germany

Β 

Β· Acquired in May 2016 for a purchase price of €11.1 million

Β· Valuation at 31 March 2018: €11.5 million

Β· Lettable area: c.4,500 sq.m

Β· Investment rationale:

ΓΌ Supermarket anchored convenience retail centre servicing a growing urban catchment;

ΓΌ Larger than standard supermarket size allowing for a broader grocery offer relative to local competition;

ΓΌ Mixed-use area with a dense residential population; and

ΓΌ Above average provision of parking

Β 

Asset management over the period has included the prolongation of the beverage store lease on a short-term basis and review of the building's fire safety regulations.

Β 

Le Directoire, Saint-Cloud (Paris), France

Β· Acquired in February 2017 for a purchase price of €30.0 million

Β· Valuation at 31 March 2018: €35.2 million

Β· Lettable area: c.15,800 sq.m

Β· Investment rationale:

ΓΌ Supply-constrained location;

ΓΌ Leased on affordable/sustainable rents;

ΓΌ Attractive capital value per sq.m substantially less than replacement cost;

ΓΌ Benefits from future infrastructure improvements; and

ΓΌ Mixed-use area with strong competition from multiple uses

Β 

Asset management over the period included:

- Re-gearing of c.25% of the office area with the merging of Fila Assistance and Garantie Assistance. Revised lease is on a 4/6/9 year term at an annual rent 13% above ERV;

- A new six year lease agreement with Ethypharm, a pharmaceutical company, for 2,450 sq.m;

- Progression of a long-term lease with a local governmental body, for c.270 sq.m of vacant storage accommodation; and

- Commencement of the renovation of lift lobbies, with completion in H2 2018, demonstrating to tenants our commitment to the premises

Β 

Metromar Shopping Centre, Seville, Spain

*Values refer to 50% interest

Β· Acquired in May 2017 for a purchase price of €26.2 million

which has been subsequently adjusted to €25.5 million

Β· Valuation at 30 September 2017: €26.0 million

Β· Lettable area: c.23,000 sq.m

Β· Investment rationale:

ΓΌ Dominant retail offer for the local urban catchment;

ΓΌ Anchored by grocery and leisure, both relatively immune to e-commerce;

ΓΌ Attractive capital value per sq.m substantially less than replacement cost; and

ΓΌ Local region is undergoing strong population growth driven by infrastructure improvements

Β 

Asset management over the period included:

- Signing of a new lease with leisure specialist Urban Planet for c.1,200 sq.m to an historically non-income-producing space. This addition will complement the centre's existing leisure offering and is expected to significantly drive customer footfall and dwell time;

- Removed underperforming restaurant and added a new burger specialist, strengthening the restaurant offer for consumers;

- Progressed design initiatives to improve brand, signage, wayfaring, lighting and general vibrancy; and

- Progressed discussions concerning the leasing of the former Massimo Dutti space

Β 

The Casino supermarket properties have been excluded from this asset management overview due to their pending sale to the Casino Group. The sale's price represents a 10% premium to last quarter's independent valuation.

Β 

Finance

Β 

As at 31 March 2018, the Company's total debt was €73.4Β million across five loan facilities. This represents a loan to value of 28% against the Company's gross asset value.

Β 

The loans drawn are secured against the four German properties in Berlin, Frankfurt, Stuttgart and Hamburg, the Spanish asset in Seville and three French assets in Paris Saint-Cloud, Biarritz and Rennes.

Β 

The current blended all-in interest rate is 1.3%, significantly below the portfolio yield of 5.8% p.a.

Β 

The average unexpired loan term is 6.4 years.

Β 

As part of the sale of the Casino supermarkets the Company's share of the debt associated with that investment will be transferred to the buyer.

Β 

Β 

Β 

Lender

Β 

Property

Maturity date

Outstanding principal 1

Β 

Interest rate

Deutsche Pfandbriefbank

Berlin/Frankfurt

30/06/2026

16,500,000

1.31%

Stuttgart/Hamburg

30/06/2023

14,000,000

0.85%

Credit Agricole1

Casino supermarkets

30/07/2023

18,200,000

3M Euribor + 1.35%

BRED Banque Populaire

Paris (SC)

15/12/2024

13,000,000

3M Euribor + 1.30%

MΓΌnchener Hypothekenbank1

Seville

22/05/2024

11,678,750

1.76%

Total

Β 

Β 

73,378,750

Β 

Β 

1All statistics in the Investment Manager's report reflect a 50% ownership share of Seville and a 70% ownership share of the Casino supermarket investments. As a result, debt allocations for those investments in the table above are similarly proportioned.

Β 

The German and Spanish loans are fixed rate for the duration of the loan term.

Β 

The French loans are based on a margin above 3 month Euribor and the Company has acquired an interest rate cap to limit future potential interest costs if Euribor were to increase. The strike rate on the caps are 1.25% p.a. The market value of the interest caps are positive at €0.4Β million as at the end of March 2018.

Outlook

Β 

Having reached full investment, the current focus is centred on maximising performance from the portfolio. The disposal and reinvestment of the Casino supermarket sale proceeds, and value-enhancing asset management initiatives such as the surrender and re-letting of space in the Company's Hamburg asset, are good examples of how we are actively pursuing this strategy.

Β 

We have identified new investments which are in various stages of exclusivity for the redeployment of the profitable Casino sale. We will continue to take a disciplined approach to growth to enhance shareholder returns and the aspirations are to grow the portfolio in an accretive way in order to deliver investors with further diversification, cost economies of scale and ultimately enhanced liquidity.

Β 

Schroder Real Estate Investment Management Limited

11 June 2018

Β 

Regulatory Information

Β 

Principal risks and uncertainties

The principal risks and uncertainties with the Company's business fall into the following risk categories: strategic; investment management; custody; gearing and leverage; accounting, legal and regulatory; and service provider. A detailed explanation of the risks and uncertainties in each of these categories can be found on pages 31 and 32 of the Company's published Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 September 2017. The Company is aware of potential changes to tax legislation, one retrospective, which, if implemented, may impact the Company. The Company is monitoring these matters closely. Otherwise, these risks and uncertainties have not materially changed during the six months ended 31 March 2018 and are not expected to change during the remaining six months of the financial year.

Β 

Going concern

Having assessed the principal risks and uncertainties, and the other matters discussed in connection with the viability statement as set out on page 32 of the published Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 September 2017, the Directors consider it appropriate to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the accounts.

Related party transactions

There have been no transactions with related parties that have materially affected the financial positionΒ or the performance of the Company during the six months ended 31 March 2018.

Β 

Statement of Directors' responsibilities

The Directors confirm that to the best of their knowledge:

Β 

β€’ the condensed consolidated set of half year interim financial statements has been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 Interim Financial Reporting as adopted by the European Union; and

Β 

β€’ the Interim Management Report includes a fair review of the information required by 4.2.7R and 4.2.8R of the Financial Conduct Authority's Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules.

Β 

Sir Julian Berney Bt.

Chairman

11 June 2018

Β 

Condensed Consolidated Interim Statement of Comprehensive Income

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Six months to

Β 

Six months to

Β 

Year to

Β 

Β 

31/03/2018

31/03/2017

30/09/2017

Β 

Note

€000

(unaudited)

€000

(unaudited)

€000

(audited)

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Rental and service charge income

Β 

10,347

7,416

17,296

Other income

2

2,400

-

-

Property operating expenses

Β 

(3,899)

(2,011)

(5,527)

Net rental and related income

Β 

8,848

5,405

11,769

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Net valuation gain on investment property

4

6,359

1,588

4,284

Realised gain/(loss) on foreign exchange

Β 

1

(6)

(4)

Net fair value (loss)/gain of financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss

Β 

(39)

158

72

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Expenses

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Investment management fee

Β 

(849)

(962)

(1,849)

Valuers' and other professional fees

Β 

(309)

(418)

(666)

Administrators and accounting fee

Β 

(147)

(146)

(306)

Auditors' remuneration

Β 

(134)

(148)

(280)

Directors' fees

Β 

(62)

(64)

(120)

Other expenses

Β 

(119)

(155)

(291)

Total expenses

Β 

(1,620)

(1,893)

(3,512)

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Operating profit before net finance costs

Β 

13,549

5,252

12,609

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Finance income

Β 

378

5

174

Finance costs

Β 

(502)

(471)

(918)

Net finance costs

Β 

(124)

(466)

(744)

Share of profit/(loss) of joint venture

5

292

-

(185)

Profit before taxation

Β 

13,717

4,786

11,680

Taxation

Β 

(815)

(158)

(505)

Profit after taxation

Β 

12,902

4,628

11,175

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Attributable to:

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Owners of the parent

Β 

10,798

4,211

10,288

Non-controlling interests

Β 

2,104

417

887

Β 

Β 

12,902

4,628

11,175

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Basic and diluted earnings per share attributable to owners of the parent

3

Β 

8.1c

Β 

3.2c

Β 

7.7c

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Profit after taxation

Β 

12,902

4,628

11,175

Other comprehensive profit/(loss) items that may be

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

subsequently reclassified to profit or loss:

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Currency translation differences

Β 

-

35

(3)

Total other comprehensive profit/(loss)

Β 

-

35

(3)

Total comprehensive profit for the period

Β 

12,902

4,663

11,172

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Total comprehensive profit attributable to:

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Owners of the parent

Β 

10,798

4,246

10,285

Non-controlling interests

Β 

2,104

417

887

Β 

Β 

12,902

4,663

11,172

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

All items in the above statement are derived from continuing operations. The accompanying notes 1 to 14 form an integral part of the condensed consolidated financial statements.

Β 

CondensedΒ Consolidated Interim Statement of Financial Position

Β 

Β 

Β 

31/03/2018

30/09/2017

31/03/2017

Β 

Assets

Notes

€000

€000

€000

Β 

Non-current assets

Β 

(unaudited)

(audited)

(unaudited)

Β 

Investment property

4

166,173

202,563

199,881

Β 

Investment in joint ventures

5

6,582

6,290

-

Β 

Loans to joint ventures

Β 

10,035

10,035

-

Β 

Non-current assets

Β 

182,790

218,888

199,881

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Trade and other receivables

Β 

850

2,063

3,542

Β 

Interest rate derivative contracts

7

232

273

359

Β 

Cash and cash equivalents

Β 

21,268

28,521

42,977

Β 

Current assets

Β 

22,350

30,857

46,878

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Assets of disposal group held for sale

6

70,389

-

-

Β 

Total assets

Β 

275,529

249,745

Β 

246,759

Β 

Β 

Equity

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Share capital

Share premium

Retained earnings

Other reserves

8

15,215

30,310

9,442

132,151

15,167

30,215

650

132,294

15,751

31,379

(1,817)

130,597

Β 

Issued capital and reserves attributable to owners

Β 

187,118

178,326

175,910

Β 

Non-controlling interest

Β 

9,795

7,691

7,221

Β 

Total equity

Β 

196,913

186,017

183,131

Β 

Β 

Liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings

9

43,079

58,772

58,707

Β 

Deferred tax

Β 

883

473

141

Β 

Non-current liabilities

Β 

43,962

59,245

58,848

Β 

Β 

Current liabilities

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Trade and other payables

Current income tax liabilities

Β 

3,980

114

4,483

-

4,729

51

Β 

Current liabilities

Β 

4,094

4,483

4,780

Β 

Liabilities of disposal group held for sale

Β 

30,560

-

-

Β 

Total liabilities

Β 

78,616

63,728

63,628

Β 

Total equity and liabilities

Β 

275,529

249,745

246,759

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Net Asset Value per ordinary share

10

139.9c

133.3c

131.5c

Β 

Β 

The accompanying notes 1 to 14 form an integral part of the condensed consolidated financial statements.

Β 

Condensed Consolidated Interim Statement of Changes in Equity

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Note

Β 

Β 

Share capital

Β 

Β 

Share premium

Β 

Β 

Retained

earnings

Β 

Β 

Other reserves

Β 

Β 

Owners of the parent

Β 

Non-controlling interests

Β 

Β 

Total

equity

Β 

Β 

Β 

€000

€000

€000

€000

€000

€000

€000

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Balance as at 1 October 2017

Β 

15,167

30,215

650

132,294

178,326

7,691

186,017

Β 

Total comprehensive income

Β 

-

-

10,798

-

10,798

2,104

12,902

Β 

Dividends paid

11

-

-

(2,006)

-

(2,006)

-

(2,006)

Β 

Unrealised foreign exchange

Β 

48

95

-

(143)

-

-

-

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Balance as at 31 March 2018 (unaudited)

Β 

15,215

30,310

9,442

132,151

187,118

9,795

196,913

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Note

Β 

Β 

Share capital

Β 

Β 

Share premium

Β 

Β 

Retained

earnings

Β 

Β 

Other reserves

Β 

Β 

Β 

Sub-total

Β 

Non-controlling interests

Β 

Β 

Total equity

Β 

Β 

Β 

€000

€000

€000

€000

€000

€'000

€'000

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Balance as at 1 October 2016

Β 

13,994

14,882

(3,486)

132,370

157,760

6,804

164,564

Β 

Profit for the year

Β 

-

-

10,288

-

10,288

887

11,175

Β 

Other comprehensive loss for the year

Β 

-

-

-

(3)

(3)

-

(3)

Β 

Dividends paid

11

-

-

(6,152)

-

(6,152)

-

(6,152)

Β 

New equity issuance

Β 

1,390

15,288

-

(245)

16,433

-

16,433

Β 

Unrealised foreign exchange

Β 

(217)

45

-

172

-

-

-

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Balance as at 30 September 2017 (audited)

Β 

15,167

30,215

650

132,294

178,326

7,691

186,017

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Note

Β 

Β 

Share capital

Β 

Β 

Share premium

Β 

Β 

Retained

earnings

Β 

Β 

Other reserves

Β 

Β 

Owners of the parent

Β 

Non-controlling interests

Β 

Β 

Total

equity

Β 

Β 

Β 

€000

€000

€000

€000

€000

€000

€000

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Balance as at 1 October 2016

Β 

13,994

14,882

(3,486)

132,370

157,760

6,804

164,564

Β 

Total comprehensive income

Β 

-

-

4,211

35

4,246

417

4,663

Β 

Dividends paid

11

-

-

(2,542)

-

(2,542)

-

(2,542)

Β 

New equity issuance

Β 

1,390

15,288

-

(232)

16,446

-

16,446

Β 

Unrealised foreign exchange

Β 

367

1,209

-

(1,576)

-

-

-

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Balance as at 31 March 2017 (unaudited)

Β 

15,751

31,379

(1,817)

130,597

175,910

7,221

183,131

Β 

Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β 

Β 

The accompanying notes 1 to 14 form an integral part of the condensed consolidated financial statements.

Β 

Condensed Consolidated Interim Statement of Cash Flows

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Six months to

Six months to

Year to

Β 

Β 

Β 

31/03/2018

31/03/2017

30/09/2017

Β 

Β 

Note

€000

(unaudited)

€000

(unaudited)

€000

(audited)

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Operating activities

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Profit before tax for the period/year

Β 

Β 

13,717

4,786

11,680

Adjustments for:

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Net valuation gain on investment property

Β 

4

(6,359)

(1,588)

(4,284)

Share of (profit)/loss of joint venture

Β 

Β 

(292)

-

185

Realised foreign exchange (gains)/losses

Β 

Β 

(1)

6

4

Finance income

Finance expense

Net fair value (loss)/gain of financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

(378)

502

39

(5)

471

(158)

(174)

918

(72)

Operating cash generated before changes in working capital

Β 

7,228

3,512

8,257

Decrease/(increase) in trade and other receivables

Β 

Β 

(113)

(1,614)

434

Increase in trade and other payables

Β 

Β 

816

2,288

1,647

Cash generated from/(used in) operations

Β 

Β 

7,931

4186

10,338

Finance costs paid

Β 

Β 

(664)

(424)

(751)

Interest received

Β 

381

5

9

Tax paid

Β 

(224)

(12)

(145)

Net cash generated from operating activities

Β 

Β 

7,424

3,755

9,451

Investing Activities

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Acquisition of investment property

Β 

Β 

(21,070)

(33,182)

(33,159)

Additions

Β 

Β 

(123)

(3)

(12)

Investment in joint ventures

Β 

Β 

-

-

(16,510)

Net cash used in investing activities

Β 

Β 

(21,193)

(33,185)

(49,681)

Financing Activities

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

New bank loan advance

Β 

Β 

13,000

-

-

Interest rate cap purchased

Β 

(227)

-

-

Share issue net proceeds

Β 

Β 

-

16,446

16,434

Dividends paid

Β 

11

(2,006)

(2,542)

(6,152)

Net cash generated from financing activities

Β 

Β 

10,767

13,904

10,282

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents for the year

Β 

Β 

Β 

(3,002)

Β 

(15,526)

Β 

(29,948)

Β 

Opening cash and cash equivalents

Β 

Β 

28,521

58,476

58,476

Foreign exchange losses

Β 

Β 

1

27

(7)

Transfer to disposal group held for sale

Β 

6

(4,252)

-

-

Closing cash and cash equivalents

Β 

Β 

21,268

42,977

28,521

Β 

Β 

The accompanying notes 1 to 14 form an integral part of the condensed consolidated financial statements

Β 

Notes to the financial statements

Β 

1. Significant accounting policies

Β 

The Company is a closed-ended investment company incorporated in England and Wales. The condensed interim financial statements of the Company for the period ended 31 March 2018 comprise those of the Company and its subsidiaries (together referred to as the "Group"). The shares of the Company are listed on the London Stock Exchange (Primary listing) and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (Secondary listing). The registered office of the Company is 31 Gresham Street, London, EC2V 7QA.

Β 

These condensed interim financial statements do not comprise statutory accounts within the meaning of section 434 of the Companies Act 2006. Statutory accounts for the year ended 30 September 2017 were approved by the Board of Directors on 5 December 2017 and were delivered to the Registrar of Companies. The report of the auditors on those accounts was unqualified, did not contain an emphasis of matter paragraph and did not contain any statement under section 498 of the Companies Act 2006.

Β 

These condensed interim financial statements have been reviewed and not audited.

Β 

Statement of compliance

The condensed interim financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules of the United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority and IAS 34 Interim Financial Reporting as adopted by the EU. They do not include all of the information required for the full annual financial statements and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements of the Group as at and for the year ended 30 September 2017. The condensed interim financial statements have been prepared on the basis of the accounting policies set out in the Group's annual financial statements for the year ended 30 September 2017. The financial statements for the year ended 30 September 2017 have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") as adopted by the European Union. The Group's annual financial statements refer to new Standards and Interpretations none of which had a material impact on the financial statements.

Β 

Basis of preparation

The financial statements are presented in euros rounded to the nearest thousand. They are prepared on a going concern basis, applying the historical cost convention except for the measurement of investment property and derivative financial instruments that have been measured at fair value.

Β 

The accounting policies have been consistently applied to the results, assets, liabilities and cash flow of the entities included in the consolidated financial statements and are consistent with those of the year end financial report.

Β 

Going concern

The Directors have examined significant areas of possible financial risk including cash and cash requirements and the debt covenants. The Directors have not identified any material uncertainties which would cast significant doubt on the Group's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of not less than twelve months from the date of the approval of the financial statements. The Directors have satisfied themselves that the Group has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future.

Β 

Use of estimates and judgements

The preparation of interim financial statements requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of policies and the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, income and expenses. These estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis of making judgements about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates. The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimates are revised and in any future periods affected.

Β 

The most significant estimates made in preparing these financial statements are the same as that applied in the consolidated financial statements for the year ended 30 September 2017.

Β 

Segmental reporting

The Directors are of the opinion that the Group is engaged in a single segment of business, being property investment, and in one geographical area, Continental Europe. The chief operating decision-maker is considered to be the Board of Directors who are provided with consolidated IFRS information on a quarterly basis.

Β 

Financial risk factors

The Directors are of the opinion that there have been no significant changes to the financial risk profile of the Group since the end of the last annual financial reporting period for the year ended 30 September 2017 of which they are aware.

Β 

The main risks arising from the Group's financial instruments and properties are: market price risk, currency risk, credit risk, liquidity risk and interest rate risk. The Board regularly reviews and agrees policies for managing each of these risks.

Β 

2. Other income

Β 

Other income relates to a lease surrender premium agreement at the Company's Hamburg office asset in Germany, part of the principal of which was received during the period.

Β 

3. Basic and diluted earnings per share

Β 

The basic and diluted earnings per share for the Group is based on the net profit for the period, excluding non-controlling interests and currency translation differences, of €10,798,000 (31 March 2017: €4,211,000, 30 September 2017: €10,288,000)Β and the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue during the period of 133,734,686 (31 March 17: 131,811,609, 30 September 2017: 132,775,782).

Β 

EPRA 1 earnings reconciliation

Β 

Β 

Six months to

31/03/2018

Six months to

31/03/2017

Year to 30/09/2017

Β 

Β 

€000

€000

€000

Total comprehensive profit

Β 

12,902

4,663

11,172

Adjustments to calculate EPRA earnings exclude:

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Net valuation gain on investment property

Β 

(6,359)

(1,588)

(4,284)

Exchange differences on monetary items (unrealised)

Β 

-

(35)

3

Share of joint venture (gain)/loss on investment property

Β 

(156)

-

429

Minority interest's net revenue

Β 

(378)

(370)

(744)

Deferred tax

Β 

410

111

443

Finance costs/(income): interest rate cap

Β 

39

(158)

(72)

EPRA profit

Β 

6,458

2,623

6,947

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Weighted average number of ordinary shares

133,734,686

131,811,609

132,775,782

IFRS earnings per share (cents per share)

8.1

3.2

7.7

EPRA earnings per share (cents per share)

4.8

2.0

5.2

Β 

1 European Public Real Estate Association ('EPRA') earnings per share reflects the underlying performance of the company calculated in accordance with the EPRA guidelines.

Β 

Headline 2 earnings reconciliation

Β 

Β 

Six months to

31/03/2018

Six months to

31/03/2017

Year to 30/09/2017

Β 

Β 

€000

€000

€000

Total comprehensive profit

Β 

12,902

4,663

11,172

Adjustments to calculate headline earnings exclude:

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Net valuation gain on investment property

Β 

(6,359)

(1,588)

(4,284)

Share of joint venture (gain)/ loss on investment property

Β 

(156)

-

429

Minority Interests net revenue

Β 

(378)

(370)

(744)

Deferred tax

Β 

410

-

443

Finance costs: interest rate cap

Β 

39

(158)

(72)

Headline earnings

Β 

6,458

2,547

6,944

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Weighted average number of ordinary shares

133,734,686

131,811,609

132,775,782

Headline and diluted headline earnings per share (cents per share)

4.8

1.9

5.2

Β 

2 Headline earnings per share reflects the underlying performance of the company calculated in accordance with the Johannesburg Stock Exchange listing requirements.

Β 

4. Investment property

Β 

Β 

Β 

Freehold

Β 

Β 

€000

Fair value as at 30 September 2016

Β 

Β 

165,365

Property acquisitions

Β 

Β 

32,925

Additions

Β 

Β 

3

Net valuation gain on investment property

Β 

Β 

1,588

Fair value as at 31 March 2017

Β 

Β 

199,881

Property acquisitions

Β 

Β 

-

Additions

Β 

Β 

(14)

Net valuation gain on investment property

Β 

Β 

2,696

Fair value as at 30 September 2017

Β 

Β 

202,563

Property acquisitions

Β 

Β 

21,127

Additions

Β 

Β 

124

Net valuation gain on investment property

Β 

Β 

6,359

Β 

Β 

Β 

230,173

Transfer to disposal group held for sale

Β 

Β 

(64,000)

Fair value as at 31 March 2018

Β 

Β 

166,173

Β 

The fair value of investment properties, as determined by the valuer, and excluding the Rennes/Anglet Casino supermarket assets held for sale and valued at the option price, totals €166,500,000 (30 September 2017: €202,700,000) with the valuation amount relating to a hundred per cent ownership share for all the assets in the portfolio.

Β 

None of this amount is attributable to trade or other receivables in connection with lease incentives. The fair value of investment properties disclosed above includes a tenant incentive adjustment of €327,000 (30 September 2017: €137,000).

Β 

The fair value of investment property has been determined by Knight Frank LLP, a firm of independent chartered surveyors, who are registered independent appraisers. The valuation has been undertaken in accordance with the RICS Valuation - Global Standards 2017, incorporating the International Valuations Standards, and RICS Professional Standards UK January 2014 (revised April 2015).

Β 

The properties have been valued on the basis of "Fair Value" in accordance with the RICS Valuation - Professional Standards VPS4 (1.5) Fair Value and VPGA1 Valuations for Inclusion in Financial Statements which adopt the definition of Fair Value used by the International Accounting Standards Board.

Β 

The valuation has been undertaken using appropriate valuation methodology and the Valuer's professional judgement. The Valuer's opinion of Fair Value was primarily derived using recent comparable market transactions on arm's length terms, where available, and appropriate valuation techniques (The Investment Method).

Β 

The properties have been valued individually and not as part of a portfolio.

Β 

All investment properties are categorised as Level 3 fair values as they use significant unobservable inputs. There have not been any transfers between levels during the period. Investment properties have been classed according to their real estate sector. Information on these significant unobservable inputs per class of investment property is disclosed below:

Β 

Quantitative information about fair value measurement using unobservable inputs (Level 3) as at 31 March 2018 (unaudited)

Β 

Β 

Β 

Industrial

Retail (including retail warehouse)

Office

Other

Total

Β 

Fair value (€m)

Β 

-

€147.65m

€129.05m

-

€276.70m 3

Area ('000 sq m)

Β 

-

73.330

60.423

-

133.753

Net passing rent

€ psm per annum

Range

Weighted average 2

Β 

-

94.73 - 140.01

118.50

65.73 - 344.78

198.01

-

94.73 - 344.78

155.58

Gross ERV psm per annum

Range

Weighted average 2

Β 

-

97.39 - 193.45

141.34

79.76 - 419.91

239.86

-

97.39 - 419.91

187.29

Net initial yield 1

Range

Weighted average 2

Β 

-

4.62 - 5.57

5.27

2.61 - 10.78

6.20

-

2.61 - 10.78

5.70

Equivalent yield

Range

Weighted average 2

Β 

-

4.60 - 6.06

5.52

4.48 - 9.97

6.15

-

4.48 - 9.97

5.81

Notes:

1 Yields based on rents receivable after deduction of head rents and non-recoverables

2 Weighted by Market Value

3 This table includes the Joint Venture investment property and the Held for Sale investment property.

Β 

Quantitative information about fair value measurement using unobservable inputs (Level 3) as at 30 September 2017 (audited).

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Retail (incl. retail

warehouse)

Office

Total

Β 

Fair value (€000)

Β 

148,300

107,300

255,600

Area

('000 sq.m)

Β 

73.330

35.504

108.834

Net passing rent € per sqm per annum

Range

Weighted average (2)

94.73 - 145.32

118.92

131.03 - 344.63

240.86

94.73 - 344.63

170.11

Gross ERV per sqm per annum

Range

Weighted average (2)

Β 

97.39 - 185.61

139.03

126.12 - 413.10

265.45

97.39 - 413.10

192.10

Net initial yield (1)

Range

Weighted average (2)

Β 

4.62 - 5.62

5.29

4.59 - 8.96

6.43

4.59 - 8.96

5.77

Equivalent yield

Range

Weighted average (2)

Β 

4.60 - 5.93

5.49

4.47 - 7.25

5.46

4.47 - 7.25

5.48

Β 

Notes:

(1) Yields based on rents receivable after deduction of head rents and non-recoverables

(2) Weighted by market value

(3) This table includes the Joint Venture investment property valued at €52.9 million which is disclosed within the summarised information within note 12 as part of total assets

Β 

Sensitivity of measurement to variations in the significant unobservable inputs

The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement categorised within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy of the Group's property portfolio, together with the impact of significant movements in these inputs on the fair value measurement, are shown below:

Β 

Unobservable input

Impact on fair value measurement of significant increase in input

Impact on fair value measurement of significant decrease in input

Passing rent

Increase

Decrease

Gross ERV

Increase

Decrease

Net initial yield

Decrease

Increase

Equivalent yield

Decrease

Increase

Β 

There are interrelationships between the yields and rental values as they are partially determined by market rate conditions. The sensitivity of the valuation to changes in the most significant inputs per class of investment property is shown below:

Β 

Β 

Β 

Estimated movement in fair value of investment properties at 31 March 2018

Β 

Β 

Retail

 €'000

Β 

Β 

Office

 €'000

Β 

Β 

Total

 €'000

Increase in ERV by 5%

5,250

5,200

10,450

Decrease in ERV by 5%

-5,300

-5,500

-10,800

Increase in net initial yield by 0.25%

-6,650

-6,050

-12,700

Decrease in net initial yield by 0.25%

7,300

6,300

13,600

Β 

Β 

Estimated movement in fair value of investment properties at 30 September 2017

Β 

Retail

€'000

Β 

Office

€'000

Β 

Total

€'000

Increase in ERV by 5%

5,200

4,600

9,800

Decrease in ERV by 5%

-5,200

-4,950

-10,150

Increase in net initial yield by 0.25%

-6,700

-5,750

-12,450

Decrease in net initial yield by 0.25%

7,350

5,900

13,250

Β 

5. Investment in joint ventures

Β 

The Group has a 50% interest in a joint venture called Urban SEREIT Holdings Spain S.L. The principal place of business of the joint venture is Calle Velazquez 3, 4th Madrid 28001 Spain.

Β 

Β 

Β 

31/3/2018

Β 

Β 

€000

Balance as at 1 October 2017

Β 

6,290

Share of profit/(loss) for the period

Β 

442

Dividends

Β 

(150)

Balance as at 31 March 2018

Β 

6,582

Β Β Β Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

30/9/2017

Β 

Β 

€000

Balance as at 1 October 2016

Β 

-

Purchase of interest in joint venture

Β 

6,475

Share of profit/(loss) for the period

Β 

(185)

Balance as at 30 September 2017

Β 

6,290

Β 

Β 

Β 

During the period ended 31 March 2017 there were no interests in joint ventures.

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Summarised joint venture financial information:

Β 

Β 

31/3/2018

Β 

30/9/2017

Β 

€000

€000

Total assets

59,586

59,719

Total liabilities

(46,422)

(47,139)

Net assets

13,164

12,580

Net asset value attributable to the Group

6,582

6,290

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Six months to 31/3/2018

Six months to 31/3/2017

Β 

€000

€000

Revenues

2,838

-

Total comprehensive profit

884

-

Total comprehensive profit attributable to the Group

442

-

Β Β Β Β Β Β 

Β 

6. Non-current assets classified as held for sale

Β 

The assets and liabilities related to the Group company SCI Rennes Anglet, comprising the Casino supermarkets, were presented as held for sale at 31 March 2018 following the decision by Casino Group to exercise a buy-back option on the Group's 70% share of these assets. Under the option, the repurchase will complete on 31 July 2018. Casino Group will also take over the Group's share of the existing debt facility on the assets.

Β 

The two investment properties held for sale are at their respective option price and do not form part of the Knight Frank valuation.

Β 

All other assets and liabilities of the disposal group are presented at their carrying amount or fair value as required by IFRS 5.

Β 

Net assets of disposal group classified as held for sale

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 31/03/2018

 €000

Investment property

Β 

Β 

64,000

Derivatives

Β 

Β 

228

Trade and other receivables

Β 

Β 

1,909

Cash and cash equivalents

Β 

Β 

4,252

Total assets

Β 

Β 

70,389

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings

Β 

Β 

28,561

Trade and other payables

Β 

Β 

1,999

Total liabilities

Β 

Β 

30,560

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Net assets held for sale

Β 

Β 

39,829

Β 

Β 

7. Derivative financial instruments

Β 

The group has an interest rate cap in place purchased for €260,000 from Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank on 10 August 2016 in connection to a €26.0 million loan facility drawn from the same bank with a maturity date of July 2023. The cap interest rate is 1.25% with a floating rate option being Euribor 3 months. In line with IFRS 9 this derivative is reported in the financial statements at its fair value. As at 31 March 2018 the fair value of the interest rate cap was €228,000. Transaction costs incurred in obtaining the instrument are being amortised over the extended period of the above mentioned loan. During the period this asset has been reclassified as part of a disposal group held for sale (note 6).

Β 

During the period the group entered into another interest rate cap purchased for €227,000 from BRED Banque Populaire on 20 December 2017 in connection to a €13.0 million loan facility drawn from the same bank with a maturity of 15 December 2024. The cap interest rate is 1.25% with a floating rate option being Euribor 3 months. In line with IFRS 9, this derivative is reported in the financial statements at its fair value. As at 31 March 2018 the fair value of the interest rate cap was €232,000.

Β 

8. Issued capital and reserves

Β 

Share capital

Β 

As at the date of this report, the Company has 133,734,686 ordinary shares in issue with a par value of 10.00 pence (no shares are held in Treasury). The total number of voting rights of the Company is 133,734,686.

Β 

The Sterling value of issued share capital was Β£13,373,000 (30 September 2017: Β£13,373,000, 31 March 2017: Β£13,373,000) and the Euro value at the period end was €15,215,000 (30 September 2017: €15,167,000, 31 March 2017: €15,751,000).

Β 

9. Interest-bearing loans and borrowings

Β 

Β 

Β 

Six months to

Β 31/03/2018

 €000

Brought forward

Β 

Β 

58,772

Drawdown of borrowings

Β 

Β 

13,000

Capitalisation of finance costs

Β 

Β 

(204)

Amortisation of finance costs

Β 

Β 

72

Β 

Β 

Β 

71,640

Transfer to disposal group held for sale

Β 

Β 

(28,561)

Carried forward

Β 

Β 

43,079

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Year ended

Β 30/09/2017

 €000

Brought forward

Β 

Β 

58,724

Capitalisation of finance costs

Β 

Β 

(80)

Amortisation of finance costs

Β 

Β 

128

Carried forward

Β 

Β 

58,772

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

Six months to

Β 31/03/2017

 €000

Brought forward

Β 

Β 

58,724

Capitalisation of finance costs

Β 

Β 

(81)

Amortisation of finance costs

Β 

Β 

64

Carried forward

Β 

Β 

58,707

Β 

Β 

Bank loan - BRED Banque Populaire

Β 

The Group entered into a €13.0 million loan facility with BRED Banque Populaire on 18 December 2017.

Β 

The facility matures on 15 December 2024 and carries an interest rate of 1.30% plus Euribor 3 months per annum payable quarterly. The facility was subject to a €70,000 arrangement fee which is being amortised over the period of the loan. The debt has an LTV covenant of 60% and the interest cover ratio should be above 400%. The loan is collateralised by property assets owned by the Group with a carrying value of €35,200,000.

Β 

Bank loan - Deutsche Pfandbriefbank AG

On 3 August 2016 the Group entered into two loan facilities totalling €30.50 million with Deutsche Pfandbriefbank AG.

Of the total amount drawn €14.0 million matures on 30 June 2023 and carries a fixed interest rate of 0.85% payable quarterly; the remaining €16.5 million matures on 30 June 2026 and carries a fixed interest rate of 1.31%. The facility was subject to a 0.35% arrangement fee which is being amortised over the period of the loan. The debt has an LTV covenant of 65% and the debt yield must be at least 8.0%.

The lender has a charge over property owned by the Group with a value of €69,000,000. A pledge of all shares in the borrowing Group companies is in place.

Bank loan -Β Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank

Β 

The Group entered into a €26.0 million loan facility with Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank on 29 July 2016.

Β 

The facility matures on 29 July 2023 and carries an interest rate of 1.35% plus Euribor 3 months per annum payable quarterly. The facility was subject to a 0.85% arrangement fee which is being amortised over the period of the loan.

The debt has an LTV covenant of 65% and the interest cover ratio should be above 200%. The loan is collateralised by property assets owned by the Group with a carrying value of €64,000,000.

Β 

During the period this loan has been reclassified as part of a disposal group held for sale (note 6).

Β 

Business partner loan - Casino Group

Β 

On 28 June 2016 the Group entered into a €10.75 million loan facility with Casino Group, a 30% minority investor in the share capital of SCI Rennes Anglet, a 70% owned subsidiary of the Group. The loan matures on 28 June 2031 and carries an interest rate of 2.08% payable annually. The interest can be capitalised if not paid. On 1 August 2016 €7.69 million was repaid leaving a loan balance outstanding as at 31 March 2018 of €3.06 million.

Β 

During the period this loan has been reclassified as part of a disposal group held for sale (note 6).

Β 

10. NAV per ordinary share

Β 

The NAV per ordinary share is based on the net assets excluding non-controlling interests of €187,118,000Β (30 September 2017: €178,326,000, 31 March 2017: €175,910,000) and 133,734,686 ordinary shares in issue at the Statement of Financial Position reporting date (30 September 2017: 133,734,686, 31 March 2017: 133,734,686).

Β 

11. Dividends paid

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

In respect of the six months ended 31 March 2018

Number of

Rate

31/03/2018

Β 

ordinary shares

(cents)

€000

Interim dividend paid 19 January 2018

133,734,686

1.50

2,006

Β 

Β 

Β 

Β 

A dividend for the quarter ended 31 December 2017 of €2,474,000 was paid on 13th April 2018.

Β 

In respect of the six months ended 31 March 2017

Number of

Rate

31/03/2017

Β 

ordinary shares

(cents)

€000

Interim dividend paid 27 January 2017

133,734,686

0.9

1,205

Interim dividend paid 17 March 2017

133,734,686

1.0

1,337

Total

Β 

1.9

2,542

Β Β Β Β Β 

Β 

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Β 

In respect of the year ended 30 September 2017

Number of

Rate

30/09/2017

Β 

ordinary shares

(cents)

€000

Interim dividend paid on 27 January 2017

133,734,686

0.90

1,205

Interim dividend paid on 17 March 2017

133,734,686

1.00

1,337

Interim dividend paid on 7 July 2017

133,734,686

1.20

1,604

Interim dividend paid on 1 September 2017

133,734,686

1.50

2,006

Total interim dividends paid

Β 

4.60

6,152

Β Β Β Β Β 

Β 

12. Related party transactions

Schroder Real Estate Investment Management Limited is the Group's Investment Manager.

Β 

The Investment Manager is entitled to a fee, together with reasonable expenses, incurred in the performance of its duties. The fee is payable monthly in arrears and shall be an amount equal to one twelfth of the aggregate of 1.1% of the EPRA NAV of the Company. The Investment Management Agreement can be terminated by either party on not less than twelve months written notice, such notice not to expire earlier than the third anniversary of admission, or on immediate notice in the event of certain breaches of its terms or the insolvency of either party. The total charge to profit and loss during the period was €849,000 (six months ended 31 March 2017: €962,000, year ended 30 September 2017: €1,849,000). At the period end €881,000 was outstanding (six months ended 31 March 2017: €480,000, year ended 30 September 2017: €125,000).

Β 

Directors are the only officers of the Company and there are no other key personnel. The Directors' remuneration for services to the group for the six months ended 31 March 2018 was €62,000 (six months ended 31 March 2017: €64,000, year ended 30 September 2017: €120,000) equivalent to Β£54,055. Each of the three directors owns 10,000 shares in the Company.

Β 

13. Capital commitments

Β 

At 31 March 2018 the Group had capital commitments of €400,000 (30 September 2017: Β£Nil, 31 March 2017: Β£Nil).

Β 

14. Post balance sheet events

Β 

There were no post balance sheet events.

Β 

Β 

Β 

This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.
Β 
END
Β 
Β 
IR LLFITRIILLIT
Date   Source Headline
12th Jun 20187:00 amRNSHalf-year Report
31st May 20184:00 pmRNSNotice of Half Year Results
26th Mar 20182:30 pmRNSDividend Currency Exchange Rate (sterling)
5th Mar 20181:00 pmRNSDividend currency exchange rate (SA Rand)
22nd Feb 201811:01 amRNSAnnouncement of NAV and Dividend
22nd Feb 201811:01 amRNSResult of AGM
21st Feb 20187:00 amRNSAcquisition of Netherlands data centre
9th Feb 20187:00 amRNSCity BKK leases surrender agreed in Hamburg
1st Feb 20181:15 pmRNSSale of interest in French retail assets
24th Jan 201811:00 amRNSDirector Declaration
24th Jan 20189:00 amRNSHolding(s) in Company
8th Jan 20181:00 pmRNSDividend Declaration
8th Jan 20187:00 amRNSNew key tenant
18th Dec 201710:40 amRNSNEW FRENCH DEBT FACILITIES SECURED
11th Dec 201711:00 amRNSNotice of dividend currency exchange rate (rand)
6th Dec 20177:03 amRNSNotice of AGM
6th Dec 20177:02 amRNSDividend Declaration
6th Dec 20177:00 amRNSAnnual Financial Report
17th Nov 20171:30 pmRNSUpdate on management
14th Nov 20177:00 amRNSNotice of Results
10th Nov 20173:05 pmRNSHolding(s) in Company
21st Sep 20177:00 amRNSCompletion of New Lettings in Paris
21st Aug 20173:00 pmRNSNotice of dividend currency exchange rate (GBP)
7th Aug 20173:00 pmRNSNotice of dividend currency exchange rate (rand)
2nd Aug 20173:45 pmRNSHolding(s) in Company
25th Jul 20177:00 amRNSAnnouncement of NAV and dividend
26th Jun 20172:30 pmRNSNOTICE OF DIVIDEND CURRENCY EXHANGE RATE(STERLING)
13th Jun 20171:00 pmRNSNotice of dividend currency exchange rate (rand)
25th May 20177:01 amRNSDividend Declaration
25th May 20177:00 amRNSHalf-year Report
23rd May 20177:00 amRNSAcquisition of Shopping Centre in Seville, Spain
16th May 20177:00 amRNSNotice of Half Year Results
22nd Mar 20172:30 pmRNSHolding(s) in Company
6th Mar 201712:30 pmRNSNotice Of Dividend Currency Exchange Rate
28th Feb 20172:00 pmRNSChange in SA Dividend Withholding Tax Rate
21st Feb 20171:30 pmRNSDividend Currency Exchange Rate (SA Rand)
8th Feb 20173:00 pmRNSAGM Statement
2nd Feb 20179:51 amRNSAcquisition
27th Jan 20179:00 amRNSInvestor Event
16th Jan 20172:05 pmRNSNOTICE OF DIVIDEND CURRENCY EXHANGE RATE
3rd Jan 20172:00 pmRNSDIVIDEND CURRENCY EXCHANGE RATE (SA RAND)
23rd Dec 20169:15 amRNSHolding(s) in Company
14th Dec 20167:21 amRNSDividend Declaration
14th Dec 20167:20 amRNSFinal Results
1st Nov 20163:30 pmRNSHolding(s) in Company
1st Nov 201611:30 amRNSTotal Voting Rights
28th Oct 20161:00 pmRNSAcquisition
26th Oct 20164:02 pmRNSHolding(s) in Company
24th Oct 20167:00 amRNSAnnouncement of Results of Placing
20th Oct 201610:08 amRNSAnnouncement of Placing Price

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