THE OLDE QUEEN ANNE LIMITED

Executive Summary

THE OLDE QUEEN ANNE LIMITED is a small, independent operator in the UK public house sector, exhibiting typical financial characteristics such as low fixed assets and a lean operational structure. Recent financials indicate some pressure on net assets and cash reserves, reflecting broader industry challenges including cost inflation and competitive pressures. Positioned as a niche player, the company’s focus on maintaining working capital and staffing levels suggests a strategy aimed at sustaining service quality amid a challenging market environment.

THE OLDE QUEEN ANNE LIMITED - Analysis Report

Company Number: 13578074

Analysis Date: 2025-07-29 16:05 UTC

1. Industry Classification: THE OLDE QUEEN ANNE LIMITED operates within the SIC code 56302, classified under "Public houses and bars." This sector involves the sale of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages primarily for consumption on the premises, often supplemented by food service. Key characteristics include high reliance on local footfall, regulatory compliance (licensing, health and safety), and sensitivity to consumer discretionary spending and social trends.

2. Relative Performance: The company is categorized as a small private limited company given its turnover and asset size, though exact turnover figures are not disclosed in the available data. Its net assets declined from £66.6k in 2023 to £49.3k in 2024, indicating a contraction in retained earnings or possible operational pressures. The cash balance also reduced from £71.7k to £49.7k year-on-year. Compared to typical small pubs, which often operate with tight margins and limited fixed assets, THE OLDE QUEEN ANNE LIMITED’s fixed assets are minimal (£121), consistent with industry norms where premises are often leased or owned by third parties. The company employs 13 people on average, which aligns with a small to medium-sized pub operation. The working capital position remains positive, with net current assets of £49.2k, suggesting reasonable short-term liquidity.

3. Sector Trends Impact: The UK pub sector has faced significant challenges over recent years, including post-pandemic recovery, rising input costs (notably energy and raw materials), and changing consumer behavior towards premiumization and experience-led visits. Regulatory factors such as licensing laws and health regulations also impact operations. Increasing competition from off-trade alcohol sales and changing social habits have pressured traditional pubs to innovate or diversify service offerings. THE OLDE QUEEN ANNE LIMITED’s reduction in net assets and cash could reflect these pressures, including potential higher operating costs or investment in stock (noted slight increase in stock value) to maintain competitive offerings. The steady increase in employees suggests a scaling effort, possibly to enhance service or extend operating hours.

4. Competitive Positioning: As a small independent pub, THE OLDE QUEEN ANNE LIMITED operates as a niche player within a highly fragmented sector dominated by both large pub chains and numerous independent outlets. Its modest scale limits bargaining power with suppliers compared to larger chains but allows flexibility in local market responsiveness. The company’s financials show lean fixed asset investment, typical for the sector, but a robust working capital base that supports operational needs. The decrease in net assets and cash reserves may indicate margin pressures or reinvestment in stock and staffing to maintain customer experience, which could be a strategic strength if it results in customer loyalty. However, the company must carefully manage cost control and revenue generation to withstand ongoing sector volatility.