Results for the year ended 31 December 2022

Plant Health Care PLC

02 May 2023

 

2 May 2023

PLANT HEALTH CARE plc 

("Plant Health Care" or the "Company")

Full Year Results and Announcement of Consultation

Company is on track to deliver long-term targeted revenue, cash breakeven and profitability

Plant Health Care^® (AIM: PHC.L), a leading provider of novel patent-protected biological products to help farmers feed the world sustainably, is pleased to announce its results for the year ended 31 December 2022.

Financial highlights:

·      Revenue up 40% to $11.8m (2021: $8.4m)

·      Gross margin improved 200 basis points to 61% (2021: 59%)

·      Adjusted LBITDA* improved 20% to $3.7m (2021 $4.6m)

·      Substantial improvement in working capital which decreased 20% to $3.1m (2021: $3.9m)

·      Company is on track to deliver long-term targeted revenue, cash breakeven and profitability.

*Adjusted LBITDA: loss before interest, tax, depreciation, amortisation, share-based payments and foreign exchange loss

Operational highlights:

Harpinαβ

·      The Company has recorded strong commercial sales growth of Harpinαβ (36%) - the recombinant protein which acts as a powerful bio-stimulant to improve the quality, nutrient use, tolerance to abiotic stress and yield of crops.  

·      Appointed Ager Agro SAS as a distributor of Harpinαβ product, ProAct®, in Argentina and Uruguay with the first sales in Argentina in Q4 2022.

·      Developed partnerships in new regions, as Harpinαβ was successfully registered for use as a fertilizer with bio-stimulant properties in France, the largest agricultural producer in the European Union. The structure of the EU mutual recognition process will also ensure the expansion of the use of Harpinαβ to other European markets.

PREtec

·      The Company's PREtec technology platform (Vaccines for Plants™) continues to build on the success of the launch of our first PREtec product, Saori, which is used in Brazil for the prevention and treatment of soybean diseases.

·      Submitted applications to the relevant regulatory agencies in Brazil for approval to commercialise our new PREtec products, PHC279 and PHC949, for use on major crops. Brazil is the world's largest producer of sugar cane and coffee with 8.3 million hectares of sugar cane under cultivation.

·      Second new product from Plant Health Care's PREtec was launched in the US. The Company's target is to launch at least one PREtec product in a major market every year and, following regulatory approval of PHC279 by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in early 2023, we expect to commercially launch PHC279 in the US in the second half of 2023.

·      Signed a trial agreement with agronomy services and technology provider, Agrii UK, to evaluate PREtec technology for use in the UK. 

·      Signed an agreement for EDAF Unipessoal LDA to become the exclusive distributor in Portugal for a proprietary PREtec-containing fertilizer, PREzym™, for use in fruit, vegetables and cereals crop production across the European market.

Outlook:

·      Plant Health Care remains firmly on track to achieve annual revenue of $30 million by 2025 through the launch of new peptides and growth through current and future distributor relationships and delivering cash breakeven within our existing cash reserves.

·      The planned growth is well underpinned by increasing market share in existing markets, plus the impact of new distribution agreements for Harpinαβ and launches of PHC279 and, later, PHC949 in several markets.

·      Prospects for 2023 are positive, in spite of a slow start to the US farming season; other areas of the business have had a good start to the year.  With the usual warning that weather events can affect sales, trading is currently in line with market expectations for the full year.

·      The PHC business model is now more relevant than ever as the issue of food security continues to grow, and the farming world looks for technological solutions to achieve a sustainable future with better crops delivering higher yields and reducing environmental effects to help meet global sustainability targets.

·      The Board has decided to evaluate a range of financing and strategic options for the Company, including how Plant Health Care might access non-dilutive capital to support its growth ambitions, and, as part of this process, to consult with key shareholders as to whether AIM remains the right environment for Plant Health Care to achieve its ambitions. Further details of the proposed consultation are below.

Annual Report

The Annual Report will be available on the Company's website today (https://www.planthealthcare.com/investors/financial-reports-and-investor-presentations) and hard copies are expected to be posted to Shareholders in due course.

For further information, please contact:

Plant Health Care plc
Jeffrey Tweedy, Chief Executive Officer	Tel: [phone]
Jeffrey Hovey, Chief Financial Officer
Cenkos Securities plc - Nomad & Broker	Tel: [phone]
Neil McDonald / Peter Lynch
SEC Newgate (Financial Communications)	Tel: [phone]
Robin Tozer / Harry Handyside / George Esmond	Email: [e-mail]

Dr. Christopher Richards, Chairman comments:

In 2022, we once again beat annual market growth of 12 - 16%, as the wave of sustainability sweeps across farming. Another firm step towards our goal of $30m annual revenue in 2025.

Sustainable growth

Plant Health Care is all about sustainability while delivering against market expectations in all respects.  The Company is on track to deliver long-term targeted revenue, cash breakeven and profitability.

Delivering Performance

Plant Health Care's financial performance accelerated in 2022.  Our core Harpinαβ grew by 36%; more than double the 12 - 16% growth for the market in sustainable biological products for agriculture.  For the second year, financial performance was ahead of market expectations; we intend to continue with this out-performance.

Robust Financial Position

As revenue grows, we leverage our cost base to move progressively to cash positive.  At the same time, we are making measured increases in investment in sales and marketing, where we are confident of strong returns.  Our Commercial business is now strongly profitable and cash generative, financing an increasing part of the costs of bringing our exciting new PREtec products to market.  We are confident of becoming profitable and cash generative as a company within our existing cash reserves, while continuing to fund priority growth projects.

Accelerating Growth

Strong revenue growth in Harpinαβ is a testament to the broadening scale of adoption of this remarkable product.  We have the enormously exciting PREtec platform, from which we intend to launch at least one major product every year, in a major market through a large distributor.  The large-scale launch of Saori^® in Brazil in 2022 is but the first of a series of launches planned for the coming years.

Cost Position

The best technology will not succeed without a cost position which allows customers and channel partners to achieve a good return on their investment.  During 2022, we established new toll manufacturing arrangements in the EU, which guarantee access to high-quality products at a low cost, as evidenced by the gross margins we are achieving on both Harpinαβ and Saori.

ESG Focus

During 2022, we have broadened our focus from sustainability to ESG as a whole.  We are increasing our focus on delivering for all stakeholders.  We have taken the first steps to improve the diversity of the Board and senior teams are working to embed ESG across the Company.

Risk Management

Covid-19, the war in Ukraine, increased inflation and supply chain challenges combine to create a much riskier world than in recent years.  Plant Health Care is alert to the risks and has increased attention to their management. Given the nature of the agriculture sector and the Company's business, inflation and supply chain issues are those on which we focus most attention.  At present, we are able to recover inflation in price.  We are addressing supply chain issues by seeking to diversify the sources of our principal products.

World Beating Management Team

In July, I handed over the Chief Executive Officer role to Jeffrey Tweedy, who had been acting as COO for the previous 12 months.  I was pleased to accept the Board's request to take on the role of Non-Executive Chairman.  Jeff was well prepared for his new role and is performing at a very high level.  He is ably supported by Jeff Hovey (CFO) and a strong Executive Committee, which is driving the performance we cover in this report.  We were pleased to welcome Kate Coppinger and James Ede-Golightly to the Board in early 2023; with their appointment, we now have a Board with strong competencies in all areas. 

Announcement of Consultation

The Board is pleased to report that Plant Health Care is on track to deliver long-term targeted revenue, cash breakeven and profitability, in line with its strategy.  However, like many other small UK-quoted companies, the Board is frustrated that the Company's share price performance does not reflect the positive progress in the delivery of its strategy.

The Board is committed to accelerating the Company's organic growth and, where possible, making value-accretive acquisitions to scale up Plant Health Care's operations. This will require capital investment; however, the Board is mindful of the impact on existing shareholders of any potential future equity raise at current share price levels.

Therefore, the Board has decided to evaluate over the coming weeks a range of financing options for the Company, including how Plant Health Care might access non-dilutive and strategic capital to support its growth ambitions. As part of this process, the Board intends to consult with shareholders as to whether AIM remains the right capital market for Plant Health Care to achieve its ambitions.  Shareholders are invited to submit their views on this issue to the Chairman by email.

Dr Christopher Richards

Non-executive Chairman

1 May 2023

[e-mail]

Chief Executive Officer's Statement

Jeffrey Tweedy, Chief Executive Officer

Overview

We are pleased to record an excellent financial year and are on track to achieve revenue of $30 million by 2025. The Company's focus on developing new distribution partnerships and building on its existing ones for its growing portfolio of products has helped increase revenue by 40% to $11.8m (2021: $8.4m).  Sales in both North and South America were strongly up, 74% and 104% respectively.

Our success has been driven by the growing demand for Harpinαβ in North and South America and the successful commercialisation of Saori in Brazil following its launch in 2021. We expect Saori to be a significant driver of growth, and our new long-term commercial agreement with Nutrien to distribute the product in Brazil will help achieve this mission.

Cash and cash equivalents as of 31 December 2022 were $5.7m. There has been a substantial improvement in working capital which decreased by 20% to $3.1m (2021: $3.9m), and cash used in operations decreased by 16% to $2.7m (2021: $3.2m).

Plant Health Care has continued to expand into new markets around the world including South America, Europe and India. We have grown our relationships with major distribution partners to deliver our products into these new markets.

It is a testament to the hard work of the Plant Health Care team that we have delivered on our key objectives for the financial year and are firmly on track to reach our long-term financial objectives by 2025.

Products

Our proprietary products derived from natural proteins help protect crops from diseases and stress leading to increased crop yield, quality and financial return for growers globally.   The rise to the top of the global agenda of climate change, food security and sustainability is driving increased demand for our products.

Harpinαβ

The Company has recorded strong commercial sales growth of Harpinαβ - the recombinant protein which acts as a powerful biostimulant to improve the quality, nutrient use, tolerance to abiotic stress and yield of crops.   Harpinαβ sales increased by 36% to $8.2m (2021: $6.0m).  Furthermore, the Group signed a production agreement with a leading Europe-based biomanufacturing company to ensure production capacity and to accommodate the expected long-term growth in demand for the product. The agreement will also improve our gross margin.

In the last 12 months, we have seen Harpinαβ and associated products expand its reach. In April 2022, we appointed Ager Agro SAS as a distributor of Harpinαβ product, ProAct^®, in Argentina and Uruguay with the first sales in Argentina in Q4 2022. We have also developed partnerships in new regions. Harpinαβ was successfully registered for use as a fertilizer with biostimulant properties in France, the largest agricultural producer in the European Union. The structure of the EU mutual recognition process will also ensure the expansion of the use of Harpinαβ to other European markets. 

In January 2023, we signed an exclusive agreement with Novozymes South Asia Pvt to enable the distribution of Harpinαβ across India. The first commercial sales are expected to commence in the second half of 2023, following regulatory approval.  This is a significant milestone for Plant Health Care and offers considerable growth potential. India is the world's second largest producer of sugar cane, with five million hectares currently under cultivation in the country.

PREtec

The Company's PREtec technology platform (Vaccines for Plants™) continues to build on the success of the launch of our first PREtec product, Saori used in Brazil for the prevention and treatment of soybean diseases.  Saori was fully launched in Brazil in the second quarter of 2022 generating revenue of $0.8 million.

Derived from natural proteins, PREtec is an environmentally friendly technology which stimulates crop growth and ability to withstand a variety of abiotic stresses as well as to improve disease control, plant health and yield. PREtec is compatible with mainstream agricultural practices. Our aim is to launch one new PREtec product every year.

Following regulatory approval of PHC279 by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in early 2023, we expect to commercially launch PHC279 in the US in the second half of 2023.

In December 2022, we submitted applications to the relevant regulatory agencies in Brazil for approval to commercialise our new PREtec products, PHC279 and PHC949, for use on major crops. Brazil is the world's largest producer of sugar cane and coffee. In the latest season, Brazil had 8.3 million hectares of sugar cane under cultivation and more than 2.2 million hectares of coffee.  PHC279 was submitted for the control of sugar cane orange rust (Puccinia kuehnii) and coffee leaf rust (Hemileia vastatrix).  PHC279 is the active ingredient in Saori, which is already used in Brazil for the prevention and treatment of soybean diseases.

PHC949 was submitted as a seed treatment for the control of root-lesion nematode (Pratylenchus brachyurus) in soybean. It is a novel product that amplifies a plant's natural defense against damaging nematodes (a "bionematicide"), increasing plant health and yield in a variety of crops. For 2022/23, the soybean harvested area in Brazil is forecast to be 42.9 million hectares. Results from field studies show PHC949 may provide control of harmful nematodes comparable to the traditional chemical nematicides and superior to current biological products.  The Brazilian authorities do not commit to a specific timeline for granting regulatory licenses.  However, the Company anticipates regulatory licenses will be granted in 1-2 years.

Furthermore, our entrance into the nematicides sector offers significant growth potential as we look to consolidate our presence in a market predicted to reach $1.79bn by 2027.

In August 2022, we announced a trial agreement with agronomy services and technology provider, Agrii UK., to evaluate PREtec technology for use in the UK.  We also signed an agreement for EDAF Unipessoal LDA to become the exclusive distributor in Portugal for a proprietary PREtec-containing fertilizer, PREzym™, for use in fruit, vegetables and cereals crop production.

Distribution Partnerships

We distribute our products through partnerships with influential distributors, which enables us to access large numbers of farmers. Our distribution partners provide valued technical advice on the best use of our products. We work together to drive product adoption, to mutual benefit.

We now work with six of the world's largest distributors of agricultural products, which account for over 150 million acres in soybeans, corn and sugar cane.

Geographic growth

The Company continues to expand and deepen its footprint in regions across the world, focusing on the largest agricultural producers.

North America

Total revenue in the US has grown to $4.8m (2021: $2.8m) driven by strong Harpinαβ demand for Employ in specialty crops, corn, soybeans and citrus.

Looking ahead, we see more growth opportunities working with Wilbur-Ellis on cotton, soybeans, citrus, sugar cane and California specialty crops, and the planned launches of our PREtec products PHC279, and in the future, PHC949. The US has huge potential, with West Coast farmers spending $10 billion every year on disease control alone.

South America

We are now present in Brazil, Argentina (with our first sales in Q4 2022) and Chile with plans to launch in Uruguay. Total revenue is $2.0m (2021: $1.1m) driven by Saori use in soybeans and Harpinαβ sales in sugar cane.

In the next couple of years, we anticipate significant growth of Saori in soybeans and Harpinαβ growth in sugar cane, soybeans and cotton.

EMEAA

Sales in EMEAA were $1.3 m in 2022 versus $1.6m in 2021.  Lower revenue was caused by loss of sales in Spain and Portugal due to drought impacting crops and negative effects of currency.

Prospects for 2023 are positive with the planned expansion of Harpinαβ in the EU with the France registration and the launch of PREzym in Portugal.

Mexico

Plant Health Care Mexico has a broad biological product line for farmers in Mexico including third-party products.  Sales in Mexico were $3.4m (2021: $3.0m).  The sales increase was driven by increased specialty crop acres and new market growth coming from sales into agave and avocado.

In the next couple of years Mexico is expecting continued growth with sales of Harpinαβ into sugar cane and continued growth in agave and avocado.

Environmental Sustainability

Food security is the top priority in 2023, and will only continue to become a growing concern, with global events driving the world's ever-increasing need for more access to vital crops. Sustainable agriculture lies at the heart of meeting this need, and our biological products will play a fundamental role in providing better-quality crops that can deliver higher yields.

Farmers face many challenges, including the impacts of climate change, such as drought and the need to work more sustainably. Plant Health Care products provide an environmentally suitable solution to increase regular yields through our pipeline of products for farmers and food/crop suppliers across various markets.

Financial summary

Jeffrey Hovey, Chief Financial Officer

A summary of the financial results for the year ended 31 December 2022 with comparatives for the previous financial year is set out below:

	2022 $'000	2021 $'000
Revenue	11,767	8,432
Gross profit	7,171	5,003
Gross profit margin	61%	59%
Operating loss	(9,238)	(6,381)
Finance expense - net	(84)	(34)
Net loss arising from financial assets	(125)	-
Net loss for the year before tax	(9,447)	(6,415)
Adjusted LBITDA*	(3,686)	(4,618)
Cash equivalents and investments	5,656	9,162

Revenues

Revenues in 2022 increased by 40% to $11.8 million (2021: $8.4 million). On a constant currency basis revenue increased 41% driven by strong growth in the specialty crops and corn market in the USA, sugar cane market with sugar cane out growers Brazil. The gross margin increased to 61% (2021: 59%) due to increased Harpinαβ sales into the Americas and the full-scale launch of Saori in Brazil. Harpinαβ sales increased 36% to $8.2 million (2021: $6.0 million). Third-party revenue increased 17% to $2.8 million (2021: $2.4 million) due to the rebound in the specialty crop market following the effects of the Covid pandemic.

The Group has three separate reporting segments as set out below.

In 2022, the Group's revenue, gross margin and LBITDA were weighted more evenly throughout the year with 47% in the first half and 53% in the second half of the financial year. This was an important objective for the Group as this helped with cash flow fluctuations during the year.

Americas

This segment includes activities in both North and South America but excludes Mexico. Revenue in the Americas segment increased 82% (80% in constant currency) to $7.1 million (2021: $3.9 million). The increase in revenue was due to further expansion into the specialty crop and corn markets through our partner Wilbur-Ellis and another large USA distributor.  Revenue in the Americas is predominantly from Harpinαβ and Saori sales.

EMEAA

Revenue in the Rest of World segment decreased 16% (5% in constant currency) to $1.3 million (2021: $1.6 million). The decrease was primarily due to drought conditions experienced in Spain in the first half of 2022 and currency fluctuations of the Euro versus the Dollar. Sales into the greenhouse market saw an increase of 72%, driven by multiple factors including; demand generation through technical assistance/showcasing in the field, local trial investments and integrated marketing. Revenue in the Rest of World segment is predominantly from Harpinαβ sales.

Mexico

Revenue from the Mexico segment increased 13% (12% in constant currency) to $3.4 million (2021: $3.0 million). This was primarily due to the rebound in the specialty crop market following the effects of the Covid pandemic.

Revenue in Mexico includes sales of Harpinαβ and third-party products. The gross margin in Mexico for Harpinαβ and third-party products are 69%+ and 43%+, respectively.

Gross Margin

Gross margin increased to 61% (2021: 59%). The increase was primarily due to increased sales of Harpinαβ in North America and Saori in Brazil.

Operating Expenses

The Group's operating expenses increased 13% or $1.3 million to $10.9 million (2021: $9.6 million). The main contributors were increased sales and marketing spend to $4.6 million (2021: $3.7 million) to drive additional commercial sales primarily in the Americas and increased administration costs to $3.4 million (2021: $3.0 million).  2022 cash operating expenses were held at the same amount as H2 2021 on a pro-rata basis, which reflected increased spend following the March 2021 fundraise.

Non-cash unallocated corporate expenses increased $2.0 million to $3.8 million (2021: $1.8 million). The increase was attributable to the forex loss in the value of Sterling loans from our UK subsidiary due to the appreciation of the Pound (2021: forex loss).

Adjusted LBITDA, a non-GAAP measure, decreased by $0.9 million to $3.7 million (2021: $4.6 million) primarily due to improved gross profit of $2.2 million offset by increased spend in sales and marketing of $0.9 million and administration of $0.4 million.

* Adjusted LBITDA: loss before interest, tax, depreciation, amortisation, share-based payments and losses from foreign exchange

	2022 $'000	2021 $'000
Operating loss	(9,238)	(6,381)
Depreciation/amortisation	668	567
Share-based payment expense	1,130	572
Foreign exchange losses	3,754	624
Adjusted LBITDA	(3,686)	(4,618)

Balance Sheet

At 31 December 2022 and 2021, investments and cash and cash equivalents were $5.7 million and $9.2 million respectively.

Cash remains a primary focus for the Group.

Inventory ($3.4 million) increased $1.2 million due to Harpinαβ purchases in the second half of 2022 to ensure adequate supply to meet the projected strong demand in the first half of 2023. Trade receivables ($1.4 million) decreased $1.6 million due to higher-than-expected collections in the fourth quarter in the Americas versus the prior year. Trade payables ($1.6 million) were comparable to the prior year ($1.2 million).

Translation of the results of foreign subsidiaries for inclusion within the consolidated Group results resulted in an exchange gain of $3.7 million (2021: $0.5 million) recorded within other comprehensive income and foreign exchange reserves.

Cash Flow and Liquidity

The Company successfully raised £6.6 million ($9.1 million) through the issuance of new ordinary shares in March 2021.

Net cash used in operations was $2.7 million (2021: $3.2 million).

The decrease is due to reduced losses offset by an increase in working capital cash flow primarily by reduced receivables through increased collections offset by increased inventory outflows to supply first half revenue growth projections.

Net cash provided by investing activities was $8.0 million (2021: $5.4 million net cash used). The Group held in 2021 surplus cash in several bond and money market funds. The movement in these funds was used to further invest in the PREtec business and fund the Commercial business.

Net cash used in financing activities was $0.6 million (2021: $8.6 million net cash provided from financing). This is primarily from the issuance of new ordinary shares in March 2021.

Going Concern

In assessing whether the going concern basis is appropriate for preparing the 2022 annual report, the Directors have utilised the Group's detailed forecasts, which take into account its current and expected business activities, its cash and cash equivalents and its investments balance of $5.7 million. The principal risks and uncertainties the Group faces and other factors impacting the Group's future performance were considered. The Directors confirm that they have a reasonable expectation that the Group will have adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the next 12 months from approval of these financial statements and accordingly these financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis, with no material uncertainty over going concern.

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income

for the year ended 31 December 2022

	Note	2022 $'000	2021 $'000
Revenue	3	11,767	8,432
Cost of sales		(4,596)	(3,429)
Gross profit		7,171	5,003
Research and development expenses		(3,564)	(3,383)
Sales and marketing expenses		(4,557)	(3,677)
Administrative expenses		(8,288)	(4,324)
Operating loss	4	(9,238)	(6,381)
Finance income		113	27
Finance expense		(197)	(61)
Net loss arising on financial assets		(125)	-
Loss before tax		(9,447)	(6,415)
Income tax (expense)/credit		(36)	111
Loss for the year attributable to the equity holders of the parent company		(9,483)	(6,304)
Other comprehensive income
Items which will or may be reclassified to profit or loss:
Exchange gain on translation of foreign operations		3,659	468
Total comprehensive loss for the year attributable to the equity holders of the parent company		(5,824)	(5,836)
Basic and diluted loss per share	6	$(0.03)	$(0.02)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements

Consolidated statement of financial position

 at 31 December 2022

	Note	2022 $'000	2021 $'000
Assets
Non-current assets
Intangible assets	7	1,620	1,622
Property, plant and equipment	8	644	718
Right-of-use assets		586	843
Other receivables	9	146	135
Total non-current assets		2,996	3,318
Current assets
Inventories		3,371	2,137
Trade and other receivables	9	1,801	3,364
Tax receivable		-	229
Investments		-	8,157
Cash and cash equivalents		5,656	1,005
Total current assets		10,828	14,892
Total assets		13,824	18,210
Liabilities
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables		3,235	2,711
Borrowings		55	37
Lease liabilities		437	400
Total current liabilities		3,727	3,148
Non-current liabilities
Borrowings		215	224
Lease liabilities		192	480
Total non-current liabilities		407	704
Total liabilities		4,134	3,852
Total net assets		9,690	14,358
Share capital		4,352	4,326
Share premium		100,859	100,859
Foreign exchange reserve		2,856	(803)
Accumulated deficit		(98,377)	(90,024)
Total equity		9,690	14,358

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements

Consolidated statement of changes in equity

for the year ended 31 December 2022

		Share capital $'000	Share premium $'000	Foreign exchange reserve $'000	Accumulated deficit $'000	Total $'000
Balance at 1 January 2021		3,605	92,520	(1,271)	(84,292)	10,562
Loss for the year		-	-	-	(6,304)	(6,304)
Exchange difference arising on translation of foreign operations		-	-	468	-	468
Total comprehensive loss		-	-	468	(6,304)	(5,836)
Shares issued net of issue costs		721	8,339	-	-	9,060
Share-based payments		-	-	-	572	572
Balance at 31 December 2021		4,326	100,859	(803)	(90,024)	14,358
Loss for the year		-	-	-	(9,483)	(9,483)
Exchange difference arising on translation of foreign operations		-	-	3,659	-	3,659
Total comprehensive income/(loss)		-	-	3,659	(9,483)	(5,824)
Shares issued net of issue costs		26	-	-	-	26
Share-based payments		-	-	-	1,130	1,130
Balance at 31 December 2022		4,352	100,859	2,856	(98,377)	9,690

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements

Consolidated statement of cash flows

for the year ended 31 December 2022

	Note	2022 $'000	2021 $'000
Cash flows from operating activities
Loss for the year		(9,483)	(6,304)
Adjustments for:
Depreciation	8	212	132
Depreciation of right-of-use assets		454	432
Amortisation of intangibles	7	2	3
Share-based payment expense		1,130	572
Finance income		(113)	(27)
Finance expense		197	61
Net loss on investment		125	-
Foreign exchange loss		3,754	624
Income taxes expense/(credit)		36	(111)
Bad debt (reversal)/expense		(32)	33
Decrease/(increase) in trade and other receivables		1,602	(499)
Gain on disposal of fixed asset		-	(20)
(Increase)/decrease in inventories		(1,227)	1,349
Increase in trade and other payables		457	406
Income taxes received		172	134
Net cash used in operating activities		(2,714)	(3,215)
Investing activities
Purchase of property, plant and equipment	8	(133)	(382)
Sale of property, plant and equipment	8	1	20
Finance income		113	2
Purchase of investments		-	(8,048)
Sale of investments		8,032	3,056
Net cash from/ (used in) investing activities		8,013	(5,352)
Financing activities
Finance expense		(148)	(9)
Payment of lease liability		(497)	(465)
Issue of ordinary share capital		-	9,029
Exercise of options		26	31
Borrowings		18	36
Net cash (used in)/ provided by financing activities		(601)	8,622
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents		4,698	55
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of period		1,005	982
Effects of exchange rates on cash held		(47)	(32)
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period		5,656	1,005

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements

Notes forming part of the Group financial statements

for the year ended 31 December 2022

1. Basis of preparation

The financial information set out in this document does not constitute the Group's statutory accounts for the years ended 31 December 2021 or 2022.  Statutory accounts for the year ended 31 December 2022, which were approved by the directors on 1 May 2023, have been reported on by the Independent Auditor.  The Independent Auditor's Reports on the Annual Report and Financial Statements for each of 2021 and 2022 were unqualified, did not draw attention to any matters by way of emphasis, and did not contain a statement under 498(2) or 498(3) of the Companies Act 2006.

Statutory accounts for the year ended 31 December 2021 have been filed with the Registrar of Companies.  The statutory accounts for the year ended 31 December 2022 will be delivered to the Registrar of Companies in due course and will be posted to shareholders shortly, and thereafter will be available from the Group's registered office at c/o DWF LLP, 1 Scott Place, 2 Hardman Street, Manchester, England, M3 3AA and from the Group's website: https://www.planthealthcare.com/investors

The financial information set out in these results has been prepared using the recognition and measurement principles of International Accounting Standards, International Financial Reporting Standards and Interpretations in conformity with UK adopted international accounting standards. The accounting policies adopted in these results have been consistently applied to all the years presented and are consistent with the policies used in the preparation of the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2022, except for those that relate to new standards and interpretations effective for the first time for periods beginning on (or after) 1 January 2022. There are deemed to be no new standards, amendments and interpretations to existing standards, which have been adopted by the Group, that have had a material impact on the financial statements.

Reporting currency

While the functional currency of the parent company is Sterling, the Group's financial statements have been presented in US Dollars. The Directors believe this better reflects the underlying nature of the business, primarily due to the USA being the country whose competitive forces and regulations impact this business. The exchange rates used for translation are as reported below:

	Rates as of 31 December
	GBP	Mexican Peso	Euro	Reals
2021	1.3510	0.0489	1.1342	0.1794
2022	1.2090	0.0513	1.0699	0.1891

	Average exchange rates
	GBP	Mexican Peso	Euro	Reals
2021	1.3754	0.0493	1.1830	0.1855
2022	1.2370	0.0497	1.0538	0.1939

Going concern

In assessing whether the going concern basis is an appropriate basis for preparing the 2022 annual report, the Directors have utilised detailed forecasts which take into account the Group's current and expected business activities, its cash and cash equivalents balance and investments of $5.7 million as shown in its balance sheet at 31 December 2022, the principal risks and uncertainties the Group faces and other factors impacting the Group's future performance.  Some of the assumptions used in the detailed forecasts were reduced product costs through new toller manufacturer relationships, increased revenue of Harpin αβ and PREtec products in all regions through organic and new distribution growth and modest increase in operating expenses.

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis. The Directors have, at the time of approving the financial statements, a reasonable expectation that the Group has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. The Covid-19 pandemic has so far had limited impact on our business and the Board believes that the business is able to navigate through the continued impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and any macroeconomic impact of the ongoing situation in Ukraine, global impact of high inflation and rising energy costs due to the strength of its customer proposition and statement of financial position and the net cash position of the Group. The current economic conditions continue to create uncertainty, particularly over: (a) the level of customers and potential customer engagement; and (b) the level of new sales to new customers. The pandemic and situation in Ukraine have continued to have impacts economically, with potential for causing delays in contract negotiations and/or cancelling of anticipated sales and an uncertainty over cash collection from certain customers.

As a consequence, various sensitivity analyses have been performed to reflect a variety of possible cash flow scenarios and also to consider the likelihood of this scenario occurring. Overall, these cash flow forecasts, which cover a period of at least 12 months from the date of approval of the financial statements, foresee that the Group will be able to operate within its existing facilities. Nevertheless, there is a risk that the Group will be impacted more than expected by reductions in customer confidence. If sales and settlement of existing debts are not in line with cash flow forecasts, the Directors have the ability to identify cost savings if necessary, to help mitigate the impact on cash outflows. Having assessed the principal risks and the other matters discussed in connection with the going concern statement, the Directors have a reasonable expectation that the Group has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. For these reasons, they continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial information.

2. Critical accounting estimates and judgements

In preparing its financial statements, the Group makes certain estimates and judgements regarding the future. Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. In the future, actual experience may differ from estimates and assumptions. The estimates and judgements that have a risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are discussed below.

Impairment of goodwill

The Group tests whether goodwill has suffered any impairment on an annual basis. The recoverable amount is determined based on value-in-use calculations. The use of this method requires the estimation of future cash flows and the choice of a discount rate in order to calculate the present value of the cash flows. Actual outcomes may vary. Additional information on carrying values is included in note.

Impairment of intangible assets (excluding goodwill)

At the end of the financial period, the Group reviews the carrying amounts of its definite lived intangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered any impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).

Recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use. In assessing the value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their net present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset.

If the recoverable amount of an asset is estimated to be less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset is reduced to its recoverable amount. An impairment loss is recognised immediately within administrative expenses in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income.

Revenue

The Group recognises revenue at the fair value of consideration received or receivable. Sales of goods to external customers are at invoiced amounts less value-added tax or local tax on sales. The Group currently generates revenue solely within its Commercial business through the sale of its proprietary and third-party products. When the Group makes product sales under contracts/agreements these will frequently be inclusive of rebate/support payments or a financing component where judgement can be required in the assessment of the transaction price.

Recoverability of trade receivables

The Group applies both the simplified and general approaches under IFRS 9 to measure expected credit losses using a lifetime expected credit loss provision for trade receivables. Under the simplified approach, expected credit losses on a collective basis, trade receivables are grouped based on credit risk and ageing. Given the Group has a low history of default, limited judgement is required for trade receivables in this grouping.

The Group then separately reviews those receivables with payment terms over 180 days using the general approach. Under this approach judgements are required in the assessment of the risk and probability of credit losses and the quantum of the loss in the event of a default.

3. Revenue

Revenue arises from	2022 $'000	2021 $'000
Proprietary products	8,927	6,096
Third-party products	2,840	2,336
Total	11,767	8,432

The following table gives an analysis of revenue according to sales with payment terms of less than or more than 180 days.

Year to 31 December 2022

	Sales contracts with payment terms less than 180 days	Sales contracts with payment terms greater than 180 days	Total
Segment	$'000	$'000	$'000
Mexico	3,364	-	3,364
Americas	5,988	1,071	7,059
Rest of World	1,344	-	1,344
	10,696	1,071	11,767

	Sales contracts with payment terms less than 180 days	Sales contracts with payment terms greater than 180 days	Total
Timing of transfer of goods	$'000	$'000	$'000
Point in time (delivery to port of departure)	10,320	1,071	11,391
Point in time (delivery to port of arrival)	376	-	376
	10,696	1,071	11,767

Year to 31 December 2021

	Sales contracts with payment terms less than 180 days	Sales contracts with payment terms greater than 180 days	Total
Segment	$'000	$'000	$'000
Mexico	2,969	-	2,969
Americas	3,510	362	3,872
Rest of World	1,591	-	1,591
	8,070	362	8,432

	Sales contracts with payment terms less than 180 days	Sales contracts with payment terms greater than 180 days	Total
Timing of transfer of goods	$'000	$'000	$'000
Point in time (delivery to port of departure)	7,862	362	8,224
Point in time (delivery to port of arrival)	208	-	208
	8,070	362	8,432

Financing component of sales contracts	$'000
At 1 January 2021	9
Financing components recognised	-
Financing components unwound to the income statement	(9)
At 31 December 2021	-
Financing components recognised	-
Financing components unwound to the income statement	-
At 31 December 2022	-

4. Operating loss

	Note	2022 $'000	2021 $'000
Operating loss is arrived at after charging/(crediting):
Share-based payment charge		1,130	572
Depreciation	[8]	212	132
Depreciation of right-of-use assets		454	432
Amortisation of intangibles	[7]	2	3
Operating lease expense		68	36
Gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment		-	(20)
Impairment (reversal)/ provision on trade receivables		(41)	33
Foreign exchange losses		3,754	624
Auditor's remuneration:
Amounts for audit of parent company and consolidation		120	115
Amounts for audit of subsidiaries		80	60
Total auditor's remuneration		200	175

5. Segment information

The Group's CODM views, manages and operates the Group's business segments according to its strategic business focuses - Commercial and PREtec. The CODM further analyses the results and operations of the Group's Commercial business on a geographical basis; therefore the Group has presented separate geographic segments within its Commercial business as follows: Commercial - Americas (North and South America, other than Mexico); Commercial - Mexico; and Commercial - Rest of World. The Rest of World segment includes the results of the United Kingdom and Spanish subsidiaries, which together operate across Europe and South Africa. The Group's Commercial segments are focused on the sale of biological products and are the Group's only revenue generating segments. The Group's PREtec segment is focused on the research and development of the Group's PREtec platform.

Below is information regarding the Group's segment loss information for the year ended:

2022	Americas $'000	Mexico $'000	Rest of World $'000	Eliminations $'000	Total Commercial $'000	PREtec $'000	Total $'000
Revenue*
Proprietary product sales	7,038	566	1,343	-	8,947	-	8,947
Third-party product sales	22	2,798	-	-	2,820		2,820
Inter-segment product sales	1,590	-	-	(1,590)	-	-	-
Total revenue	8,650	3,364	1,343	(1,590)	11,767		11,767
Cost of sales	(3,989)	(1,760)	(437)	1,590	(4,596)		(4,596)
Research and development	-	-	-	-	-	(2,481)	(2,481)
Sales and marketing	(2,596)	(837)	(852)	-	(4,285)	(273)	(4,558)
Administration	(1,361)	(304)	(86)	-	(1,751)	(297)	(2,048)
Non-cash expenses:
Depreciation	(175)	(80)	(18)	-	(273)	(393)	(666)
Amortisation	-	-	(2)	-	(2)	-	(2)
Share-based payment	(207)	-	(57)	-	(264)	(540)	(804)
Segment operating (loss)/profit	322	383	(109)	-	596	(3,984)	(3,388)
Corporate expenses:**
Wages and professional fees							(2,004)
Administration***							(3,846)
Operating loss							(9,238)
Finance income							113
Finance expense							(197)
Net loss investment							(125)
Loss before tax							(9,447)

*     Revenue from one customer within the Americas segment totalled $3,165,000, or 27% of Group revenues.

      Revenue from one customer within the Americas segment totalled $1,420,000, or 12% of Group revenues.

      Revenue from one customer within the Americas segment totalled $1,225,000, or 10% of Group revenues.

**   These amounts represent public company expenses for which there is no reasonable basis by which to allocate the amounts across the Group's segments.

*** Includes net share-based payment expense of $326,000 attributed to corporate employees who are not directly affiliated with any of the Commercial or PREtec segments.

Other segment information	Americas $'000	Mexico  $'000	Rest of World  $'000	Eliminations $'000	Total  Commercial $'000	PREtec $'000	Total $'000
Segment assets	9,933	2,474	803	-	13,210	614	13,824
Segment liabilities	2,617	588	389	-	3,594	540	4,134
Capital expenditure	126	28	-	-	154	-	154

2021	Americas $'000	Mexico $'000	Rest of World $'000	Eliminations $'000	Total Commercial $'000	PREtec $'000	Total $'000
Revenue*
Proprietary product sales	3,836	695	1,565	-	6,096	-	6,096
Third-party product sales	36	2,274	26	-	2,336	-	2,336
Inter-segment product sales	853	-	45	(898)	-	-	-
Total revenue	4,725	2,969	1,636	(898)	8,432	-	8,432
Cost of sales	(2,232)	(1,560)	(535)	898	(3,429)	-	(3,429)
Research and development	-	-	-	-	-	(2,645)	(2,645)
Sales and marketing	(1,878)	(760)	(772)	-	(3,410)	(242)	(3,652)
Administration	(900)	(213)	(94)	-	(1,207)	(198)	(1,405)
Non-cash expenses:
Depreciation	(128)	(87)	(21)	-	(236)	(335)	(571)
Amortisation	-	-	(3)	-	(3)	-	(3)
Share-based payment	(64)	-	(22)	-	(86)	(246)	(332)
Segment operating (loss)/profit	(477)	349	189	-	61	(3,666)	(3,605)
Corporate expenses:**
Wages and professional fees							(2,046)
Administration***							(730)
Operating loss							(6,381)
Finance income							27
Finance expense							(61)
Loss before tax							(6,415)

*     Revenue from one customer within the Americas segment totalled $1,350,000, or 16% of Group revenues.

      Revenue from one customer within the Mexico segment totalled $1,204,000, or 14% of Group revenues.

      Revenue from one customer within the Americas segment totalled $1,066,000, or 13% of Group revenues.

      Revenue from one customer within the Americas segment totalled $994,000, or 12% of Group revenues.

**   These amounts represent public company expenses for which there is no reasonable basis by which to allocate the amounts across the Group's segments.

*** Includes net share-based payment expense of $240,000 attributed to corporate employees who are not directly affiliated with any of the Commercial or PREtec segments.

Other segment information	Americas $'000	Mexico  $'000	Rest of World  $'000	Eliminations $'000	Total  Commercial $'000	PREtec $'000	Total $'000
Segment assets	13,571	2,221	1,465	-	17,257	953	18,210
Segment liabilities	1,976	328	346	-	2,650	1,202	3,852
Capital expenditure	124	106	-	-	230	374	604

Geographic information

The Group operates in five principal countries - the United Kingdom (country of domicile), the USA, Mexico, Spain and Brazil.

The Group's revenues from customers by location of operation are detailed below:

	Year ended 31 December 2022			Year ended 31 December 2021
	Amount $'000	%		Amount $'000	%
United Kingdom	269	2		349	4
United States	4,817	41		2,774	33
Mexico	3,364	29		2,969	35
Spain	1,074	9		1,242	15
Brazil	2,243	19		1,098	13
Total	11,767	100		8,432	100

The Group's non-current assets by location of assets are detailed below:

	Year ended 31 December 2022			Year ended 31 December 2021
	Amount $'000	%		Amount $'000	%
United Kingdom	1	-		3	-
United States	2,653	89		3,074	93
Mexico	226	8		213	6
Spain	72	2		17	1
Brazil	44	1		11	-
Total	2,996	100		3,318	100

6. Loss per share

Basic loss per ordinary share has been calculated on the basis of the loss for the year of $9,483,000 (2021: loss of $6,304,000) and the weighted average number of shares in issue during the period of 305,148,646 (2021: 292,204,361).

Equity instruments of 36,006,306 (2021: 26,770,302), which include share options, and the 2017 Employee Share Option Plan could potentially dilute basic earnings per share in the future have been considered but not included in the calculation of diluted earnings per share because they are anti-dilutive for the periods presented. This is due to the Group incurring a loss on operations for the year.

7. Intangible assets

	Goodwill $'000	Licences and registrations $'000	Trade name and customer  relationships $'000	Total $'000
Cost
Balance at 1 January 2021	1,620	3,342	159	5,121
Additions - externally acquired	-	-	-	-
Balance at 31 December 2021	1,620	3,342	159	5,121
Additions - externally acquired	-	-	-	-
Balance at 31 December 2022	1,620	3,342	159	5,121
Accumulated amortisation
Balance at 1 January 2021	-	3,337	159	3,496
Amortisation charge for the year	-	3	-	3
Balance at 31 December 2021	-	3,340	159	3,499
Amortisation charge for the year	-	2	-	2
Balance at 31 December 2022	-	3,342	159	3,501
Net book value
At 31 December 2021	1,620	2	-	1,622
At 31 December 2022	1,620	-	-	1,620

The intangible asset balances have been tested for impairment using discounted budgeted cash flows of the relevant cash generating units. For the years ended 31 December 2021 and 2022, cash flows are projected over a five-year period with a residual growth rate assumed at 0%. For the years ended 31 December 2021 and 2022, a pre-tax discount factor of 15.2% and 15.2% has been used over the forecast period.

Goodwill

Goodwill comprises of a net book value of $1,432,000 related to the 2007 acquisition of the assets of Eden Bioscience and $188,000 related to an acquisition of VAMTech LLC in 2004. The entire amount is allocated to Harpinαβ, a cash generating unit within the Commercial - Americas segment. No impairment charge is considered necessary, and no reasonable possible change in key assumptions used would lead to an impairment in the carrying value of goodwill.

Licences and registrations

These amounts represent the cost of licences and registrations acquired in order to market and sell the Group's products internationally across a wide geography. These amounts are amortised evenly according to the straight-line method over the term of the licence or registration. Impairment is reviewed and tested according to the method expressed above. Licences and registrations have a weighted average remaining amortisation period of nil. No impairment charge is considered necessary, and no reasonable possible change in key assumptions used would lead to an impairment in the carrying value of licences and registrations.

8. Property, plant and equipment

	Office and facility  equipment $'000	Leasehold improvements $'000	Vehicles  $'000	Total $'000
Cost
Balance at 1 January 2021	1,263	819	395	2,477
Additions	384	45	175	604
Disposals	-	-	(64)	(64)
Balance at 31 December 2021	1,647	864	506	3,017
Additions	85	-	69	154
Disposals	(1)	-	-	(1)
Balance at 31 December 2022	1,731	864	575	3,170
Accumulated depreciation
Balance at 1 January 2021	1,110	819	302	2,231
Depreciation charge for the year	63	2	67	132
Disposals	-	-	(64)	(64)
Balance at 31 December 2021	1,173	821	305	2,299
Depreciation charge for the year	136	11	81	228
Disposals	(1)	-	-	(1)
Balance at 31 December 2022	1,308	832	386	2,526
Net book value
At 31 December 2021	474	43	201	718
At 31 December 2022	423	32	189	644

9. Trade and other receivables

	2022 $'000	2021 $'000
Current
Trade receivables	1,459	3,114
Less: provision for impairment	(90)	(132)
Trade receivables, net	1,369	2,982
Other receivables and prepayments	432	382
Current trade and other receivables	1,801	3,364
Non-current
Other receivables	58	59
Deferred tax asset	88	76
Non-current other receivables	146	135
	1,947	3,499

The trade receivable current balance represents trade receivables with a due date for collection within a one-year period.
The other receivable non-current balance represents lease deposits.

The Group applies the IFRS 9 simplified approach to measuring expected credit losses for sales contracts with 180 days or fewer payment terms. To measure expected credit losses on a collective basis, trade receivables and contract assets are grouped based on similar credit risk and ageing. The expected loss rates are based on the ageing of the receivable, past experience of credit losses with customers and forward-looking information. An allowance for a receivable's estimated lifetime expected credit losses is first recorded when the receivable is initially recognised, and subsequently adjusted to reflect changes in credit risk until the balance is collected. In the event that management considers that a receivable cannot be collected, the balance is written off.

Sales contract receivables provided on terms greater than 180 days are at first discounted to recognise the financing component of the transaction and then assessed using the "general approach". Under this approach, the Group models and probability weights a number of scenarios based on their assessment of the credit risk and historical expected losses.

2022	Considered under the simplified  approach $'000	Considered under  the general approach $'000
Trade receivables	1,459	-
Expected credit loss assessed	(90)	-
	1,369	-

2021	Considered under the simplified  approach $'000	Considered under  the general approach $'000
Trade receivables	2,385	729
Expected credit loss assessed	-	(132)
	2,385	597

The receivables considered under the general approach relate to one customer in the Americas segment and one customer in the Rest of World segment. The key considerations in the assessment of the provision were the probability of default, expected loss in the event of default and the exposure at the point of default.

The maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting date is the fair value of each class of receivables set out above.

Movements on the provision for impairment of trade receivables are as follows:

	2022 $'000	2021 $'000
Balance at the beginning of the year	132	99
Provided	-	50
Unused amounts reversed	(41)	(15)
Foreign exchange	(1)	(2)
Balance at the end of the year	90	132

The net value of trade receivables for which a provision for impairment has been made is $0.1 million (2021: $0.7 million).

The following is an analysis of the Group's trade receivables, both current and past due, identifying the totals of trade receivables which are not yet due and those which are past due but not impaired.

	2022 $'000	2021 $'000
Current	1,311	2,611
Past due:
Up to 30 days	17	34
31 to 60 days	-	2
61 to 90 days	-	78
Greater than 90 days	41	257
Total	1,369	2,982

10. Cautionary statement

This document contains certain forward-looking statements relating to Plant Health Care plc (the "Group"). The Group considers any statements that are not historical facts as "forward-looking statements". They relate to events and trends that are subject to risk and uncertainty that may cause actual results and the financial performance of the Group to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. These statements are made by the Directors in good faith based on information available to them and such statements should be treated with caution due to the inherent uncertainties, including both economic and business risk factors, underlying any such forward-looking information.

 

END