Mercia Asset Management Releases 2026 Annual Report and Sets AGM for September 24, 2026

Mercia's Regional Strategy and Four-Asset Capital Model

Mercia Asset Management operates as a private capital manager dedicated to supporting regional small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in their growth journeys. Its "Complete Connected Capital" model encompasses four asset classes: venture capital, development capital, property finance, and proprietary capital. This diversified approach enables Mercia to address the capital needs of regional SMEs at various growth stages, from early venture investments to property financing.

The firm maintains a strong regional presence with 11 offices across the UK, supported by extensive local adviser networks and university partnerships that provide access to high-quality deal flow. Managing assets exceeding a32.2 billion, Mercia operates at a significant scale within the regional private capital market, differentiating itself through geographic and sector diversification and integrated capital solutions.

Annual Report Availability and Shareholder Access

On 24 July 2026, Mercia announced the publication of its Annual Report and Accounts for the financial year ended 31 March 2026. Investors and shareholders can access the full report electronically at https://www.mercia.co.uk/annual-report-2026/. Printed copies have been dispatched to shareholders who requested physical documents.

This annual reporting milestone provides detailed financial statements, management analysis, and corporate governance disclosures. Offering both electronic and printed formats ensures all shareholders can review Mercia's financial performance and strategic direction ahead of the AGM.

Details of the 2026 Annual General Meeting

The 2026 AGM will be held on 24 September 2026 at 10:00 am at Gowling WLG (UK) LLP, 4 More London Riverside, London, SE1 2AU. Shareholders will have the opportunity to review the annual accounts, engage with management, and vote on resolutions such as director re-elections and approval of financial statements. The London location facilitates participation by both institutional and retail investors.

All shareholders will receive a hard copy Form of Proxy to enable voting either in person or by proxy. The AGM Notice, containing the agenda, is included within the Annual Report and Accounts. This advance distribution aligns with AIM regulatory practices to ensure shareholders have adequate time to prepare.

Executive Leadership and Investor Relations

Mercia's executive team includes CEO Mark Payton and CFO Martin Glanfield, who oversee strategic and financial management. Investor inquiries can be directed to the company via +44 (0)330 223 1430 or through the website www.mercia.co.uk.

Corporate advisers include Canaccord Genuity Limited as NOMAD and joint broker (contacts: Simon Bridges, Emma Gabriel, Harry Rees at +44 (0)20 7523 8000), Singer Capital Markets as joint broker (contact: Charles Leigh-Pemberton at +44 (0)20 7496 3000), and Cardew Group for investor relations and PR (contacts: Tania Wild, Luke Bramwell at [email protected] or +44 (0)20 7930 0777). This advisory team supports Mercia's compliance and market communications.

AIM Listing and Regulatory Compliance

Mercia Asset Management PLC is listed on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) of the London Stock Exchange under the ticker "MERC." AIM offers a regulatory framework with lighter requirements than the Main Market, governed by the AIM Rulebook and the Financial Conduct Authority. Mercia complies with AIM obligations by timely announcements via the Regulatory News Service (RNS), including the publication of annual reports and AGM notices.

Position in the Regional Private Capital Market

Mercia's strategy targets underserved regional UK markets, operating 11 offices to deploy capital and expertise outside London and the South East. This geographic focus aligns with UK levelling-up policies and addresses fragmented deal sourcing in regional SME financing. Its four-pillar capital model spans venture, development capital, property finance, and proprietary investments, managing over a32.2 billion in assets and leveraging university partnerships to access innovative ventures.

Shareholder Voting and Governance at the AGM

The 24 September 2026 AGM will allow shareholders to vote on key corporate governance matters, including approval of financial statements, director re-elections, and auditor appointments. The Notice of AGM details specific resolutions. The Form of Proxy facilitates voting in person or by proxy, encouraging broad shareholder participation. The two-month period from announcement to meeting provides ample time for review and decision-making.

Investor Access to Information and Reporting Schedule

This announcement formally notifies the market of the availability of Mercia's annual report and AGM details. Distribution via website and postal copies ensures accessibility for all shareholders. While additional investor presentations or briefings are not mentioned, shareholders are encouraged to consult the full report and participate in the AGM or proxy voting.

Mercia's financial year ended 31 March 2026, with accounts published in July 2026, reflecting standard UK listed company reporting timelines. This report offers the latest comprehensive financial and strategic insight ahead of the September AGM.

Capital Deployment and Growth Strategy Overview

Mercia's multi-asset class approach deploys institutional capital across venture, development capital, property finance, and proprietary investments, diversifying revenue and risk. Its university partnerships enhance access to academic spin-outs and innovation-driven SMEs. The company’s extensive regional adviser network supports deal sourcing, due diligence, and post-investment management, creating competitive advantages and protecting investment quality.