PYTHON KITCHEN LTD

Executive Summary

Python Kitchen Ltd shows promising revenue growth and improved liquidity but suffers from a net loss and negative equity, signaling financial fragility. Conditional approval is recommended with stringent monitoring on profitability, cash flow, and equity restoration to mitigate credit risk. Close oversight of deferred income and director support will be key to ensuring ongoing repayment capacity.

PYTHON KITCHEN LTD - Analysis Report

Company Number: 14020802

Analysis Date: 2025-07-29 14:45 UTC

1. Credit Opinion: CONDITIONAL APPROVAL Python Kitchen Ltd demonstrates a growing turnover with a modest increase from £224,926 to £254,895 over two years, indicating positive business development. However, the company reported a net loss of £5,737 in the latest period and has negative shareholders' funds of £4,857, which raises concerns about solvency and capital adequacy. The working capital position has improved significantly from a net current liability of £6,128 to a net current asset of £7,319, suggesting better short-term liquidity. Given the company’s micro size, limited employee count (2), and no history of audit, lending should be cautiously considered with conditions such as regular financial monitoring and possibly personal guarantees from the controlling directors.

2. Financial Strength: The balance sheet shows low fixed assets (£13,563) relative to turnover and modest current assets (£16,322). The significant increase in accruals and deferred income from £5,026 to £25,739 at year-end is notable and may indicate timing differences in revenue recognition or liabilities not yet due. The negative shareholders’ funds indicate accumulated losses or capital withdrawals exceeding equity contributions, undermining the company’s net asset base. However, the company’s total assets less current liabilities improved from £5,906 to £20,882, reflecting an improved asset base after settling short-term obligations.

3. Cash Flow Assessment: Current liabilities have been reduced substantially from £15,708 to £9,003, improving liquidity. Cash on hand was £1,070 at the prior year-end, but current cash balances are not separately disclosed for 2024. The positive net current assets of £7,319 suggest the company can cover its short-term liabilities with current assets. However, the presence of significant accruals and deferred income warrants further analysis to ensure these are not masking cash flow constraints. The company’s loss position and low staff count suggest tight operational cash flow, highlighting the importance of close cash flow management and possibly external cash injections or director loans.

4. Monitoring Points:

• Track ongoing profitability and ensure return to positive net income to rebuild equity.
• Monitor working capital trends and deferred income balances to assess cash flow risks.
• Review director loan accounts and related party transactions for financial support.
• Watch for timely filing of annual returns and accounts to avoid compliance risk.
• Assess any changes in control or significant shareholdings affecting governance.
• Evaluate potential impact of economic conditions on demand for kitchen furniture and agency sales.