Interim Results

3rd Sep 2008 12:30



Signet Group plc (LSE and NYSE: SIG) Embargoed until 12.30 p.m. (BST)

Unaudited Half Year Results for 26 weeks ended 2 August 2008 3 September 2008

Signet Reports half year results

Group profit before tax: $78.7m (excluding non-recurring relisting costs)	down 27.8%
Group like for like sales:	down 3.4%
Group sales: $1,591.4m	down 0.6%
Diluted earnings per share: 2.6c	down 35.0%
Interim dividend per share: 0.96c	no change

Operational Highlights:

 

 

 

Terry Burman, Group Chief Executive, commented: "The Group's strong balance sheet and superior operating metrics on both sides of the Atlantic enables the business to continue to implement its proven strategy. Appropriate adjustments in execution are being made to reflect the challenging economic conditions with tight control of costs, inventory, gross merchandise margin and investment in new space. As a result, the business will be well positioned when the economy improves. However, in the short term, the consumer environment in both the US and the UK remains very challenging.  As always, the results for the year will be significantly influenced by the Group's performance during the important Christmas period."

Enquiries:	Terry Burman, Group Chief Executive	+1 212 889 4350
	Walker Boyd, Group Finance Director	+1 212 889 4350
Press:	Jonathan Glass, Brunswick	+44 (0) 20 7404 5959
	Wendel Verbeek, Brunswick	+44 (0) 20 7404 5959
	John Dudzinsky, Taylor Rafferty	+1 212 889 4350

Signet operated 1,973 speciality retail jewellery stores at 2 August 2008; these included 1,414 stores in the US, where the Group trades as "Kay Jewelers", "Jared The Galleria Of Jewelry" and under a number of regional names. At that date Signet operated 559 stores in the UK, where the Group trades as "H.Samuel", "Ernest Jones" and "Leslie Davis". Further information on Signet is available at www.signetgroupplc.com. See also www.kay.com, www.jared.com, www.hsamuel.co.uk and www.ernestjones.co.uk.

Interim Management Report

NEW YORK LISTING

On 19 August 2008 shareholders approved the proposal to facilitate the move of the Group's primary listing to the New York Stock Exchange ("the Proposal"). It is intended to establish concurrently a secondary listing on the London Stock Exchange. Subject to the necessary Court and other approvals, the Proposal is expected to become effective on 11 September 2008 with trading in Signet Jewelers Limited commencing on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") on that date.

GROUP 

In the 26 weeks ended 2 August 2008, Group profit before tax excluding non-recurring costs of $10.5 million related to the move of the primary listing to the NYSE fell by 27.8% to $78.7 million (H1 2007/08: $109.0 million), see note 10. Like for like sales were down by 3.4% and total sales were down by 0.6% to $1,591.4 million (H1 2007/08: $1,601.8 million).  The average US dollar exchange rate for the period was £1/$1.98 (H1 2007/08: £1/$1.99).  See note 10 for changes at constant exchange rates.  The components of the change in sales are set out below:

Change in sales	US  %	UK  %	Group %
Like for like sales	(5.2)	2.3	(3.4)
Change in net new store space	4.4	(1.9)	2.9
Exchange translation	-	(0.5)	(0.1)
Total sales growth as reported	(0.8)	(0.1)	(0.6)

Operating profit excluding relisting costs fell by 22.8% to $90.3 million (H1 2007/08: $116.9 million) and operating margin was 5.7% (H1: 2007/08: 7.3%). On a reported basis the operating profit was $79.8 million. The factors influencing the lower operating margin are set out below:

Change in operating margin	US  %	UK %	Group %
H1 2007/08 operating margin	10.4	(0.2)	7.3
Gross merchandise margin movement	0.9	0.7	0.8
Expense (deleverage)/leverage	(3.1)	0.7	(2.2)
Impact of new store space	(0.3)	-	(0.2)
H1 2008/09 operating margin before relisting costs	7.9	1.2	5.7
Relisting costs	-	-	(0.7)
H1 2008/09 operating margin	7.9	1.2	5.0

The tax rate was 35.8% (H1 2007/08: 36.5%) and profit for the financial period was $43.8 million. Diluted earnings per share excluding listing costs declined by 20.0% to 3.2c. On a reported basis diluted earnings per share were 2.6c (H1 2007/08: 4.0c). The Board has approved an unchanged interim dividend of 0.96c.

  Outlook

The Group's strong balance sheet and superior operating metrics on both sides of the Atlantic enables the business to continue to implement its proven strategy. Appropriate adjustments in execution are being made to reflect the challenging economic conditions with tight control of costs, inventory, gross merchandise margin and investment in new space. As a result, the business will be well positioned when the economy improves. However, in the short term, the consumer environment in both the US and the UK remains very challenging. As always, the results for the year will be significantly influenced by the Group's performance during the important Christmas period.

OPERATING REVIEW

US Division (circa 75% of Group sales) 

In a very challenging retail environment, US like for like sales were down 5.2% and total sales decreased by 0.8% to $1,206.7 million (H1 2007/08: $1,216.9 million).  The underlying like for like sales performance in the first and second quarters was stable after adjusting for the impact of more favorable weather over Valentine's Day than in the prior year.

Operating profit was down 24.9% at $94.8 million (H1 2007/08: $126.3 million), primarily reflecting the deleverage of the cost base due to the decline in same store sales (see table above). As anticipated, the gross margin rate was up on last year due to price changes implemented during late February and March, which more than offset commodity cost increases, adverse changes in the sales mix and increased promotional cadence.  The results of the price increases continue to be encouraging and the division remains on track to at least maintain its gross merchandise margin rate in 2008/09 at last year's level. Operating margin was 7.9% (H1 2007/08: 10.4%).

While all major merchandising categories were down in the half on a same store basis, the bridal category, which accounts for approximately 45% of sales, performed better than average.  Exclusive merchandise ranges continue to be expanded and a number of new designs have tested very well.  The average unit selling price in both the mall formats and Jared rose by about 7%.

The bad debt charge at 3.9% of total sales (H1 2007/08: 2.8%), was above the tight range of the past ten years. The increase in bad debt was meaningfully offset by higher income from the receivables portfolio. Overall the cost base, excluding the impact of new space, is expected to be similar to last year despite an anticipated rise in the level of bad debts and inflationary cost increases in occupancy costs, utilities, freight and staff wage rates.

As part of the expense realignment programme, the annual gross marketing to sales ratio is planned to be about 7% of sales, down from 7.5% in 2007/08 and more in line with historic levels. The reductions have been greatest in lower returning media and formats. National television advertising for Kay and Jared will be least impacted because they are the most effective.  The marketing to sales ratio is expected to remain considerably greater than the jewellery sector average and to be the largest in the category. The Jared website launched an e-commerce capability in August.

It is expected that in 2008/09 US net new store space will increase by about 4%, including the closure of about 50 mall brand stores as leases expire. Capital expenditure in new and existing stores is planned to be circa $60 million (2007/08: $88 million).  Investment in working capital, that is inventory and receivables, associated with space growth of some $90 million is anticipated (2007/08: $119 million).

The planned change in store numbers by format in 2008/09, together with the long term potential for each is set out below:

	3 February 2008	Expected openings	Expected closures	Planned 2 February 2009	Long term potential
Kay
Mall	789	25(a)	14	800	850+
Off-mall	92	23	5	110	500+
Outlet centres	10	8	-	18	100+
Metropolitan	3	-	-	3	5-10
Kay total	894	56	19	931	1,460+
Regional brands	351	3	41(a)	313	700+
Jared	154	17	-	171	300+
Total	1,399	76(a)	60(a)	1,415	2,460+

(a) Includes 11 stores rebranded to Kay from regional brands.

UK Division (circa 25% of Group sales) 

In the 26 weeks ended 2 August 2008 total sales were little changed at $384.7 million (H1 2007/08: $384.9 million). Like for like sales were up by 2.3% (H.Samuel +2.4% and Ernest Jones +2.2%), a very encouraging performance given the trading environment. Operating profit was $4.5 million (H1 2007/08: $0.6 million loss), the normal seasonal deficit being eliminated. Tight control of costs and inventory was maintained, with gross margin increasing by 70 basis points. The expectation is for both full year costs in sterling and gross merchandising margin percentage to be similar to last year.

 

The watch category continued to perform well, particularly in Ernest Jones, and diamond participation in H.Samuel increased further. The focus on enhancing customer service remains a priority and progress in staff training is increasingly evident. The average unit selling price in H.Samuel was up 13% and in Ernest Jones it rose by 16%, reflecting changes in sales mix and increased prices. About 53 stores are expected to be refurbished or relocated this year (2007/08: 27), the majority in the enhanced Ernest Jones format. Five new stores are planned to be opened (2007/08: one) with 14 closures (2007/08: 19). Total store capital expenditure is anticipated to be some $42 million (2007/08: $18.4 million) primarily reflecting a return to a more normal refit cycle in Ernest Jones following a successful test of the new store format. At the year end, 350 H.Samuel  (2 February 2008: 359) and 205 Ernest Jones (2 February 2008: 204) stores are planned to be operating.

Group central costs, financing items and taxation

In the 26 weeks ended 2 August 2008 group central costs were $9.0 million (H1 2007/08: $8.8 million), excluding $10.5 million of non-recurring costs relating to the move of the primary listing to the NYSE. Financing costs rose to $11.6 million (H1 2007/08: $7.9 million),the increase being primarily due to the cash outflow in 2007/08 and a reduced pension credit. The tax charge was $24.4 million (H1 2007/08: $39.8 million).

Net debt

Net debt at 2 August 2008 was $433.3 million (4 August 2007: $354.8 million). Group gearing (that is the ratio of net debt to shareholders' funds) at 2 August 2008 was 24.9% (4 August 2007: 20.8%). The seasonal increase in net debt since the start of the financial year was significantly less than last year (H1 2008/09: up $58.7 million; H1 2007/08: up $121.6 million) reflecting tight management of working capital and lower tax payments, which more than offset the lower level of profits. An increased number of Ernest Jones refurbishments balanced by reduced store investment in the US, is expected to result in fixed capital expenditure in the current year of about $140 million, similar to the level in 2007/08. Cash outflow for 2008/09 is now expected to be neutral to $40 million compared with the anticipated range of $40 million and $80 million projected at the time of the announcement of the 2007/08 results.

Risk factors and related party transactions

The principal risk factors are set out on pages 44 to 50 of the Group's Annual Report & Accounts for the 52 weeks ended 2 February 2008 and pages 6 to 8 of the circular to shareholders dated 24 July 2008 for the scheme of arrangement shareholder meetings held on 19 August 2008, copies of which are available in electronic format on the Group's website www.signetgroupplc.com. In the view of the directors there has been no material change in these factors in respect of the remaining six months of the financial year, except that the Proposal has now been approved by shareholders.

There have been no additional related party transactions to those disclosed on page 115 of the Group's Annual Report & Accounts.

Copies of the half year report may be downloaded as a pdf file from www.signetgroupplc.com.

INVESTOR RELATIONS PROGRAMME

Second quarter results

A conference call will take place for all interested parties today at 9.00 a.m. (EST) and 2.00 p.m. (BST). The call will be broadcast live on the Group's website, www.signetgroupplc.com:

European dial-in:	+44 (0)20 7138 0840
European 48 hr. replay:	+44 (0)20 7806 1970	Access code: 9840702#
US dial-in:	+1 718 354 1362
US 48 hr. replay:	+1 718 354 1112	Access code: 9840702#

Goldman Sachs 15th Annual Global Retail Conference in New York

Signet will be presenting at the Goldman Sachs 15th Annual Global Retail Conference in New York on Thursday 4 September at 11.10 a.m. The presentation, which will also be webcast on www.signetgroupplc.com, will be given by Terry Burman, Group Chief Executive, and Walker Boyd, Group Finance Director.

  Johnson Rice & Company 7th Annual Consumer Conference in New Orleans

Signet will be attending the Johnson Rice 7th Annual Consumer Conference in New Orleans on Monday 27 October and Tuesday 28 October. Signet will be represented by Tim Jackson, Investor Relations Director.

Third quarter sales

The third quarter sales performance for the 13 weeks ending 2 November 2008 is expected to be announced at 2.30 a.m. (EST) and 7.30 a.m. (GMT) on Thursday 6 November.

Deutsche Bank Retail Round Table and Dinner in London

Signet will be taking part in the Deutsche Bank Retail Round Table and Dinner in London on Thursday 6 November. The Group will be represented by Walker Boyd, Group Finance Director and Tim Jackson, Investor Relations Director.

This release includes statements which are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements, based upon management's beliefs as well as on assumptions made by and data currently available to management, appear in a number of places throughout this release and include statements regarding, among other things, our results of operation, financial condition, liquidity, prospects, growth, strategies and the industry in which the Group operates. Our use of the words 'expects,' 'intends,' 'anticipates,' 'estimates,' 'may,' 'forecast,' 'objective,' 'plan,' or 'target,' and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to general economic conditions, the merchandising, pricing and inventory policies followed by the Group, the reputation of the Group, the level of competition in the jewellery sector, the price and availability of diamonds, gold and other precious metals, seasonality of the Group's business, financial market risk and risks and uncertainties relating to the Proposal (including, but not limited to, risks and uncertainties relating to implementation of the Proposal, market price, future sales, dilution and transferability of Signet Jewelers Limited common shares, secondary listing, changes in tax treatment, takeover protections, and more extensive US regulation of Signet Jewelers Limited).

For a discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially, see the 'Risk and other factors' section of the Company's Annual Report & Accounts for the year ended 2 February 2008 included as an exhibit to its Report on Form 6-K furnished with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on 1 May 2008, the 'Risk factors' section of the scheme circular pertaining to the Proposal, and other filings with and submissions to the SEC made by the Company. Actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements even if experience or future changes make it clear that any projected results expressed or implied therein may not be realised. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances, other than as required by applicable law, rule or regulation.

  SIGNET GROUP plc

Condensed consolidated income statement (unaudited)

for the 26 weeks ended 2 August 2008

		13 weeks ended  2 August  2008	13 weeks ended  4 August  2007	26 weeks Ended 2 August 2008	26 weeks Ended 4 August 2007	52 weeks  ended 2 February 2008
	Notes	$m	$m	$m	$m	$m
Sales	2,10	768.9	787.4	1,591.4	1,601.8	3,665.3
Cost of sales		(710.9)	(713.1)	(1,481.6)	(1,465.5)	(3,264.8)
Gross profit		58.0	74.3	109.8	136.3	400.5
Administrative expenses		(50.8)	(37.5)	(88.2)	(72.8)	(158.0)
Other operating income		28.8	26.1	58.2	53.4	108.8
Operating profit	2,10	36.0	62.9	79.8	116.9	351.3
Finance income	3	1.3	2.7	3.6	6.1	11.0
Finance expense	3	(7.7)	(7.4)	(15.2)	(14.0)	(28.8)
Profit before tax	10	29.6	58.2	68.2	109.0	333.5
Taxation	4	(10.5)	(21.5)	(24.4)	(39.8)	(118.3)
Profit for the financial period		19.1	36.7	43.8	69.2	215.2
Earnings per share - basic - diluted	6	1.2c 1.2c	2.2c 2.1c	2.6c 2.6c	4.1c 4.0c	12.6c 12.6c

All of the above relate to continuing activities.

 

  Condensed consolidated balance sheet (unaudited)

at 2 August 2008

			2 August 2008	4 August 2007	2 February 2008
		Notes	$m	$m	$m
Assets
Non-current assets
Intangible assets			53.4	50.4	52.6
Property, plant and equipment			511.4	491.0	502.4
Other receivables			41.1	34.1	34.8
Retirement benefit asset			-	6.5	-
Deferred tax assets			21.5	29.0	19.7
			627.4	611.0	609.5
Current assets
Inventories			1,431.3	1,366.3	1,445.5
Trade and other receivables			834.1	801.8	927.5
Cash and cash equivalents			66.9	51.8	41.7
			2,332.3	2,219.9	2,414.7
Total assets			2,959.7	2,830.9	3,024.2
Liabilities
Current liabilities
Borrowings due in less than one year			(120.2)	(26.6)	(36.3)
Trade and other payables			(313.9)	(314.3)	(357.5)
Deferred income			(106.3)	(102.5)	(125.3)
Current tax			(59.3)	(81.3)	(79.5)
			(599.7)	(524.7)	(598.6)
Non-current liabilities
Borrowings due in more than one year			(380.0)	(380.0)	(380.0)
Other payables			(92.1)	(79.2)	(85.3)
Deferred income			(137.7)	(134.6)	(139.0)
Provisions			(9.1)	(10.2)	(9.6)
Retirement benefit obligation			(4.0)	-	(5.6)
			(622.9)	(604.0)	(619.5)
Total liabilities			(1,222.6)	(1,128.7)	(1,218.1)
Net assets			1,737.1	1,702.2	1,806.1
Equity
Capital and reserves attributable to equity shareholders
Called up share capital			15.4	15.4	15.4
Share premium		8	140.2	138.4	140.2
Other reserves		8	235.2	235.2	235.2
Retained earnings		8	1,346.3	1,313.2	1,415.3
Total equity			1,737.1	1,702.2	1,806.1

Condensed consolidated cash flow statement (unaudited)

for the 26 weeks ended 2 August 2008

	13 weeks ended  2 August  2008	13 weeks ended  4 August  2007	26 weeks ended 2 August 2008	26 weeks ended 4 August 2007	52 weeks  ended 2 February 2008
	$m	$m	$m	$m	$m
Cash flows from operating activities:
Profit before tax	29.6	58.2	68.2	109.0	333.5
Adjustments for:
Finance income	(1.3)	(2.7)	(3.6)	(6.1)	(11.0)
Finance expense	7.7	7.4	15.2	14.0	28.8
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment	25.5	25.8	52.6	49.8	109.4
Amortisation of intangible assets	1.5	1.1	2.8	2.3	4.7
Share-based payment expense	1.9	2.0	3.7	4.0	0.4
Other non-cash movements	1.7	0.9	(2.2)	(0.5)	(1.5)
Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment	0.4	-	0.6	-	1.4
Operating cash flows before movement in working capital	67.0	92.7	137.3	172.5	465.7
Decrease/(increase) in inventories	58.1	43.6	9.4	(5.4)	(96.8)
Decrease/(increase) in trade and other receivables	18.8	(13.3)	81.7	59.7	(60.7)
Decrease in payables and deferred income	(20.3)	(13.1)	(57.7)	(81.2)	(13.5)
Cash generated from operations	123.6	109.9	170.7	145.6	294.7
Interest paid	(14.3)	(13.1)	(15.3)	(13.6)	(29.8)
Taxation paid	(17.1)	(35.8)	(42.9)	(75.3)	(128.5)
Net cash from operating activities	92.2	61.0	112.5	56.7	136.4
Investing activities:
Interest received	0.8	0.6	2.5	4.0	6.3
Purchase of property, plant and equipment	(38.0)	(27.8)	(63.1)	(51.9)	(129.1)
Purchase of intangible assets	(2.3)	(2.0)	(3.6)	(6.2)	(11.3)
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment	-	-	1.0	-	1.0
Cash flows from investing activities	(39.5)	(29.2)	(63.2)	(54.1)	(133.1)
Financing activities:
Dividends paid	(107.4)	(107.6)	(107.4)	(107.6)	(123.9)
Proceeds from issue of shares	-	2.3	-	5.5	6.0
Purchase of own shares	-	-	-	(29.0)	(29.0)
Increase in borrowings due in less than one year	94.1	15.5	83.7	22.0	31.1
Cash flows from financing activities	(13.3)	(89.8)	(23.7)	(109.1)	(115.8)

Reconciliation of movement in cash and cash equivalents:
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	29.2	105.0	41.7	152.3	152.3
Increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	39.4	(58.0)	25.6	(106.5)	(112.5)
Exchange adjustments	(1.7)	4.8	(0.4)	6.0	1.9
Closing cash and cash equivalents	66.9	51.8	66.9	51.8	41.7

Reconciliation of cash flows to movement in net debt:(1)
Net debt at beginning of period	(377.0)	(286.2)	(374.6)	(233.2)	(233.2)
Increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	39.4	(58.0)	25.6	(106.5)	(112.5)
Increase in borrowings	(94.1)	(15.5)	(83.7)	(22.0)	(31.1)
Exchange adjustments	(1.6)	4.9	(0.6)	6.9	2.2
Closing net debt	(433.3)	(354.8)	(433.3)	(354.8)	(374.6)

(1) Net debt represents cash and cash equivalents less borrowings due in less than one year and borrowings due in more than one year.  Condensed consolidated statement of recognised income and expense (unaudited)

for the 26 weeks ended 2 August 2008 

	13 weeks ended  2 August  2008	13 weeks ended  4 August  2007	26 weeks ended 2 August 2008	26 weeks ended 4 August 2007	52 weeks  ended 2 February 2008
	$m	$m	$m	$m	$m
Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations	(2.7)	13.5	-	18.8	(0.1)
Effective portion of changes in value of cash flow hedges	5.7	(8.4)	(4.0)	(5.1)	14.1
Transfer to initial carrying value of inventory from cash flow hedges	(3.3)	(0.1)	(8.7)	(1.7)	(10.2)
Actuarial gain on retirement benefit scheme	-	-	-	-	(15.0)
Tax on items recognised in equity	(0.7)	2.5	3.6	2.0	3.7
Net (expense)/income recognised directly in equity	(1.0)	7.5	(9.1)	14.0	(7.5)
Profit for the financial period	19.1	36.7	43.8	69.2	215.2
Total recognised income and expense attributable to shareholders	18.1	44.2	34.7	83.2	207.7

  Notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements (unaudited)

for the 26 weeks ended 2 August 2008

1. Basis of preparation

This condensed set of financial statements has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of IAS 34 'Interim Financial Reporting' as adopted by the EU.

As required by the Disclosure and Transparency Rules ("the DTR") of the UK's Financial Services Authority ("the UK FSA"), the condensed set of financial statements has been prepared applying the accounting policies and presentation that were applied in the preparation of the Company's published consolidated financial statements for the 52 week period ended 2 February 2008, which were prepared in accordance with IFRS as adopted by the EU.

These interim financial statements are unaudited and do not constitute statutory accounts within the meaning of Section 240 of the Companies Act 1985. The comparative figures for the 52 weeks ended 2 February 2008 are not the Company's statutory accounts for that period. Those accounts have been reported on by the Company's auditors and have been delivered to the Registrar of Companies. The report of the auditors was (i) unqualified, (ii) did not include a reference to any matters to which the auditors drew attention by way of emphasis without qualifying their report, and (iii) did not contain a statement under section 237(2) or (3) of the Companies Act 1985.

2. Segment information

	13 weeks ended  2 August  2008	13 weeks ended  4 August  2007	26 weeks ended 2 August 2008	26 weeks ended 4 August 2007	52 weeks  ended 2 February 2008
	$m	$m	$m	$m	$m
Sales by origin and destination
UK, Channel Islands & Republic of Ireland	193.3	202.8	384.7	384.9	959.6
US	575.6	584.6	1,206.7	1,216.9	2,705.7
	768.9	787.4	1,591.4	1,601.8	3,665.3
Operating (loss)/profit
UK, Channel Islands & Republic of Ireland
- Trading	1.8	1.3	4.5	(0.6)	105.1
- Group central costs: - underlying	(4.6)	(4.8)	(9.0)	(8.8)	(16.0)
- re-listing	(10.5)	-	(10.5)	-	-
	(13.3)	(3.5)	(15.0)	(9.4)	89.1
US	49.3	66.4	94.8	126.3	262.2
	36.0	62.9	79.8	116.9	351.3

The Group's results derive from one business segment - the retailing of jewellery, watches and associated services.

3. Net financing costs

	13 weeks ended  2 August  2008	13 weeks ended  4 August  2007	26 weeks ended 2 August 2008	26 weeks ended 4 August 2007	52 weeks  ended 2 February 2008
	$m	$m	$m	$m	$m
Interest receivable	0.8	1.6	2.5	4.0	6.2
Defined benefit pension scheme:
- expected return on scheme assets	4.2	4.4	8.6	8.6	18.3
- interest on pension liabilities	(3.7)	(3.3)	(7.5)	(6.5)	(13.5)
Finance income	1.3	2.7	3.6	6.1	11.0
Finance expense	(7.7)	(7.4)	(15.2)	(14.0)	(28.8)
	(6.4)	(4.7)	(11.6)	(7.9)	(17.8)

 

4. Taxation

The net taxation charges in the income statements for the 13 weeks and 26 weeks ended 2 August 2008 have been based on the anticipated effective taxation rate for the 52 weeks ending 31 January 2009.

5. Translation differences

The exchange rates used for the translation of UK pound sterling transactions and balances in these interim statements are as follows:

	2 August  2008	4 August  2007	2 February 2008
Income statement (average rate)	1.98	1.99	2.00
Balance sheet (closing rate)	1.97	2.04	1.97

The effect of restating the balance sheet at 4 August 2007 to the exchange rates ruling at 2 August 2008 would be to increase net debt by $0.3 million to $(355.1) million. 

6. Earnings per share 

	13 weeks ended  2 August  2008	13 weeks ended  4 August  2007	26 weeks ended 2 August 2008	26 weeks ended 4 August 2007	52 weeks  ended 2 February 2008
	$m	$m	$m	$m	$m
Profit attributable to shareholders	19.1	36.7	43.8	69.2	215.2
Weighted average number of shares in issue (million)	1,704.0	1,702.4	1,703.9	1,703.0	1,703.8
Dilutive effect of share options (million)	0.8	7.7	1.0	9.4	3.3
Diluted weighted average number of shares (million)	1,704.8	1,710.1	1,704.9	1,712.4	1,707.1
Earnings per share - basic	1.2c	2.2c	2.6c	4.1c	12.6c
- diluted	1.2c	2.1c	2.6c	4.0c	12.6c
Earnings per ADS - basic	11.3c	21.5c	25.7c	40.6c	126.3c
- diluted	11.3c	21.4c	25.7c	40.4c	126.1c

The number of ordinary and deferred shares in issue at 2 August 2008 was 1,705,541,827 and 50,000 respectively (4 August 2007: 1,705,339,904 ordinary and 50,000 deferred shares, 2 February 2008: 1,705,510,466 ordinary and 50,000 deferred shares).

7. Seasonality

The Group's business is highly seasonal with a very significant proportion of its sales and operating profit generated during its fourth quarter, which includes the Christmas season. The Group expects to continue to experience a seasonal fluctuation in sales and profit. 

 

8. Share premium and reserves

26 weeks ended 2 August 2008			Other reserves				Retained earnings
	Share premium		Capital redemption		Special reserves		Purchase of own shares		Hedging reserve		Translation reserve		Retained reserves		Total
	$m		$m		$m		$m		$m		$m		$m		$m
Balance at 2 February 2008	140.2		0.4		234.8		(10.8)		8.2		10.0		1,407.9		1,790.7
Recognised income and expense:
- profit for the financial period	-		-		-		-		-		-		43.8		43.8
- cashflow hedges (net)	-		-		-		-		(9.1)		-		-		(9.1)
- translation differences	-		-		-		-		-		-		-		-
Dividends	-		-		-		-		-		-		(107.4)		(107.4)
Equity-settled transactions	-		-		-		-		-		-		3.7		3.7
Balance at 2 August 2008	140.2		0.4		234.8		(10.8)		(0.9)		10.0		1,348.0		1,721.7

9. Dividend

A dividend of 0.96 cent per share will be paid on 7 November 2008 to shareholders on the register of members at the close of business on 26 September 2008. The US dollar to pound sterling rate used to convert the 0.96 cent dividend per share for payment to shareholders who elect to receive a pound sterling dividend will be the rate as derived from Reuters at 4.00pm on the record date of 26 September 2008. Shareholders wishing to change the currency in which they receive the dividend should contact the Company's registrars.

10. Impact of constant exchange rates and re-listing costs

The Group has historically used constant exchange rates to compare period-to-period changes in certain financial data. This is referred to as 'at constant exchange rates' throughout this release. The Group considers this a useful measure for analysing and explaining changes and trends in the Group's results. The impact of the re-calculation of sales, operating profit, and net debt at constant exchange rates, including a reconciliation to the Group's GAAP results, is analysed below.

26 weeks ended 2 August 2008	26 weeks ended  2 August  2008	26 weeks ended  4 August  2007	Growth at actual exchange  rates	Impact of exchange rate movement	At constant exchange rates  (non-GAAP)	Growth at constant exchange  rates  (non-GAAP)
	$m	$m	%	$m	$m	%
Sales by origin and destination
UK, Channel Islands & Republic of Ireland	384.7	384.9	(0.1)	(1.9)	383.0	0.4
US	1,206.7	1,216.9	(0.8)	-	1,216.9	(0.8)
	1,591.4	1,601.8	(0.6)	(1.9)	1,599.9	(0.5)
Operating (loss)/profit
UK, Channel Islands & Republic of Ireland
- Trading	4.5	(0.6)	n/a	-	(0.6)	n/a
- Group central costs: - underlying	(9.0)	(8.8)	(2.3)	-	(8.8)	(2.3)
- re-listing	(10.5)	-	n/a	-	-	n/a
	(15.0)	(9.4)	(59.6)	-	(9.4)	(59.6)
US	94.8	126.3	(24.9)	-	126.3	(24.9)
	79.8	116.9	(31.7)	-	116.9	(31.7)

At 2 August 2008	2 August  2008	4 August 2007	Impact of  exchange  rate movement	At constant  exchange rates  (non-GAAP)
	$m	$m	$m	$m
Net debt	(433.3)	(354.8)	(0.3)	(355.1)

The underlying performance of the business excluding the impact of re-listing costs is detailed below.

26 weeks ended 2 August 2008	26 weeks ended  2 August  2008	26 weeks ended  4 August  2007	Movement including  re-listing costs	Impact of  re-listing costs 2008	Excluding re-listing costs 2008	Movement excluding  re-listing costs
	$m	$m	%	$m	$m	%
Operating profit	79.8	116.9	(31.7)	10.5	90.3	(22.8)
Profit before tax	68.2	109.0	(37.4)	10.5	78.7	(27.8)
Diluted earnings per share	2.6c	4.0c	(35.0)	0.6c	3.2c	(20.0)

  Responsibility statement of the directors in respect of the half year report

We confirm that to the best of our knowledge:

 

(a) DTR 4.2.7R of the Disclosure and Transparency Rules, being an indication of important events that have occurred during the first six months of the financial year and their impact on the condensed set of financial statements; and a description of the principal risks and uncertainties for the remaining six months of the year; and

(b) DTR 4.2.8R of the Disclosure and Transparency Rules, being related party transactions that have taken place in the first six months of the current financial year and that have materially affected the financial position or performance of the Company during that period; and any changes in the related party transactions described in the last annual report that could do so.

 

 

Independent review report by KPMG Audit Plc to Signet Group plc

Introduction

We have been instructed by the Company to review the financial information set out on pages 7 to 14 in the half year report for the 26 weeks ended 2 August 2008 which comprises a condensed consolidated income statement, a condensed consolidated balance sheet, a condensed consolidated cash flow statement, a condensed consolidated statement of recognised income and expense and the related explanatory notes. We have read the other information contained in the half year report and considered whether it contains any apparent misstatements or material inconsistencies with the financial information.

This report is made solely to the Company in accordance with the terms of our engagement to assist the Company in meeting the requirements of the Disclosure and Transparency Rules ("the DTR") of the UK's Financial Services Authority ("the UK FSA"). Our review has been undertaken so that we might state to the Company those matters we are required to state to it in this report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Company for our review work, for this report, or for the conclusions we have reached.

Directors' responsibilities

The half year report including the financial information contained therein, is the responsibility of, and has been approved by, the directors. The directors are responsible for preparing the half year report in accordance with the DTR of the UK FSA.

As disclosed in note 1, the annual financial statements of the Company are prepared in accordance with IFRS as adopted by the EU. The financial information included in this half year report has been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 'Interim Financial Reporting' as adopted by the EU .

Our responsibility

Our responsibility is to express to the Company a conclusion on the financial information in the half year report based on our review.

Scope of Review

We conducted our review in accordance with the International Standard on Review Engagements (UK and Ireland) 2410 'Review of interim financial information performed by the independent auditor of the entity' issued by the Auditing Practices Board for use in the UK. A review of interim financial information consists of making enquiries, primarily of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters, and applying analytical and other review procedures. A review is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland) and consequently does not enable us to obtain assurance that we would become aware of all significant matters that might be identified in an audit. Accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion.

Review conclusion

Based on our review, nothing has come to our attention that causes us to believe that the financial information in the half year report for the 26 weeks ended 2 August 2008 is not prepared, in all material respects, in accordance with IAS 34 as adopted by the EU and the DTR of the UK FSA.

3 September 2008

  

 

 

EXHIBIT 1

Unaudited condensed consolidated income statements under US GAAP

	13 weeks ended	13 weeks  ended	26 weeks ended	26 weeks  ended
	2 August  2008	4 August  2007	2 August  2008	4 August  2007
	$m	$m	$m	$m
Sales	768.9	787.4	1,591.4	1,601.8
Cost of sales	(519.8)	(541.3)	(1,064.6)	(1,081.9)
Gross margin	249.1	246.1	526.8	519.9
Selling, general and administrative expenses	(240.4)	(203.7)	(502.1)	(449.6)
Other operating income, net	28.8	26.1	58.7	53.4
Operating income	37.5	68.5	83.4	123.7
Interest income	0.8	1.6	2.5	4.0
Interest expense	(7.7)	(7.4)	(15.2)	(14.0)
Income before income taxes	30.6	62.7	70.7	113.7
Income taxes	(10.9)	(21.7)	(25.3)	(39.4)
Net income	19.7	41.0	45.4	74.3
Earnings per share - basic	1.2c	2.4c	2.7c	4.4c
- diluted	1.2c	2.4c	2.7c	4.4c

All of the above relate to continuing activities attributable to equity shareholders.

  Unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets under US GAAP 

	2 August 2008	4 August 2007	2 February 2008
	$m	$m	$m
Assets
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	66.9	51.8	41.7
Accounts receivable, net	760.8	723.0	848.2
Other receivables	27.0	35.7	40.5
Other current assets	46.3	43.1	38.8
Deferred tax assets	-	1.6	-
Inventories	1,454.5	1,368.3	1,453.6
Total current assets	2,355.5	2,223.5	2,422.8
Non-current assets:
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $695.4 million, $601.8 million and $642.8 million, respectively.	498.7	477.1	489.2
Goodwill	556.0	561.2	556.0
Other intangible assets, net	22.8	19.8	22.0
Other assets	41.1	34.1	34.8
Retirement benefit asset	-	6.5	-
Deferred tax assets	74.8	58.6	74.6
Total assets	3,548.9	3,380.8	3,599.4
Liabilities and Shareholders' equity:
Current liabilities:
Loans and overdrafts	120.2	26.6	36.3
Accounts payable	82.5	85.7	89.3
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	231.4	228.8	268.2
Deferred revenue	106.3	102.5	125.3
Deferred tax liabilities	53.1	27.8	47.9
Income taxes payable	59.3	81.3	79.5
Total current liabilities	652.8	552.7	646.5
Non-current liabilities:
Long-term debt	380.0	380.0	380.0
Other liabilities	112.6	105.4	96.4
Deferred revenue	137.7	134.6	149.7
Retirement benefit obligation	4.0	-	5.6
Total liabilities	1,287.1	1,172.7	1,278.2
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock of 0.9c par value: authorised 5,929.9 million shares, 1,705.5 million shares issued and outstanding (4 August 2007: 1,705.3 million shares issued and shares outstanding; 2008: 1,705.5 million shares issued and outstanding)	15.3	15.3	15.3
Deferred stock, £1 par value: authorised 50,000, issued and outstanding 50,000 shares	0.1	0.1	0.1
Additional paid-in capital	163.5	157.7	162.5
Other reserves	235.2	235.2	235.2
Retained earnings	1,856.4	1,791.7	1,918.4
Treasury stock - 1.7 million shares, 2.0 million shares and 1.7 million shares, respectively	(10.8)	(11.4)	(10.8)
Accumulated other comprehensive income	2.1	19.5	0.5
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	3,548.9	3,380.8	3,599.4

 

  Unaudited condensed consolidated statements of cash flows under US GAAP

	13 weeks ended	13 weeks  ended	26 weeks ended	26 weeks  ended
	2 August 2008	4 August  2007	2 August 2008	4 August  2007
	$m	$m	$m	$m
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	19.7	41.0	45.4	74.3
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash flows provided by operations:
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment	25.5	25.8	52.6	49.8
Amortisation of other intangible assets	1.5	1.1	2.8	2.3
Pension expense	0.3	(0.4)	0.5	(0.8)
Stock-based payments expense	0.4	(2.9)	0.7	(1.2)
Deferred taxation	-	-	(1.5)	-
Other non-cash movements	1.4	0.6	(2.8)	(1.3)
Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment	0.4	-	0.1	-
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Decrease/(increase) in inventories	58.1	43.6	9.4	(5.4)
Decrease in trade receivables	24.0	11.6	86.0	69.7
(Increase)/decrease in other receivables	(5.9)	(9.4)	(7.0)	0.5
Decrease/(increase) in other current assets	0.7	(15.5)	2.7	(10.5)
Decrease in accounts payable	(21.6)	(19.7)	(12.8)	(31.4)
Decrease in accrued expense and other liabilities	(5.4)	(0.1)	(45.0)	(49.4)
Decrease in income taxes payable	(6.1)	(14.1)	(16.1)	(35.9)
Net cash provided by operating activities	93.0	61.6	115.0	60.7
Investing activities:
Purchase of property, plant and equipment	(38.0)	(27.8)	(63.1)	(51.9)
Purchase of other intangible assets	(2.3)	(2.0)	(3.6)	(6.2)
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment	-	-	1.0	-
Net cash flows used in investing activities	(40.3)	(29.8)	(65.7)	(58.1)
Financing activities:
Dividends paid	(107.4)	(107.6)	(107.4)	(107.6)
Proceeds from issue of stock	-	2.3	-	5.5
Purchase of own stock	-	-	-	(29.0)
Proceeds from short-term borrowings	94.1	15.5	83.7	22.0
Net cash flows used in financing activities	(13.3)	(89.8)	(23.7)	(109.1)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	29.2	105.0	41.7	152.3
Increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	39.4	(58.0)	25.6	(106.5)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(1.7)	4.8	(0.4)	6.0
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	66.9	51.8	66.9	51.8

Reconciliation of net income and shareholders' funds from IFRS to US GAAP

Effect on profit for the financial period of differences between IFRS and US GAAP

	13 weeks ended	13 weeks ended	26 weeks ended	26 weeks ended
	2 August  2008	4 August  2007	2 August  2008	4 August  2007
	$m	$m	$m	$m
Profit for the financial period in accordance with IFRS	19.1	36.7	43.8	69.2
Pensions	(0.8)	(0.7)	(1.6)	(1.3)
Sale and leaseback transactions	0.3	0.4	0.6	0.8
Share-based payment	1.5	4.8	3.0	5.2
Profit on disposal of revalued asset	-	-	0.5	-
Taxation on reconciling items	(0.4)	(0.2)	(0.9)	0.4
Retained profit attributable to shareholders in accordance with US GAAP	19.7	41.0	45.4	74.3

Effect on shareholders' funds of differences between IFRS and US GAAP

	2 August 2008	4 August 2007	2 February 2008
	$m	$m	$m
Shareholders' funds in accordance with IFRS	1,737.1	1,702.2	1,806.1
Goodwill in respect of acquisitions (gross)	876.1	884.4	876.1
Accumulated goodwill amortisation	(350.7)	(354.0)	(350.7)
Sale and leaseback transactions	(10.2)	(12.0)	(10.7)
Depreciation of properties	(4.5)	(5.1)	(4.7)
Revaluation of properties	(8.2)	(8.8)	(8.5)
Share-based payment	(1.2)	(4.0)	(1.5)
Commodity derivatives	23.2	2.0	8.1
Taxation on reconciling items	0.2	3.4	7.0
US GAAP adjustments	524.7	505.9	515.1
Shareholders' funds in accordance with US GAAP	2,261.8	2,208.1	2,321.2

A narrative description of the reconciling items is disclosed in the annual report for the 52 weeks ended 2 February 2008.

ENDIR UURNRWARKRAR

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Related Shares:

SIG.L