Funeral provider Dignity swings to loss despite high death toll during pandemic

Dignity spent more on PPE while earning less per service

Dignity (LON:DTY) confirmed a £19.6m loss last year even though the number of deaths soared due to the scourge of the coronavirus pandemic.

The company confirmed the total number of deaths for the year to 25 December was 663,000, up by 14% from 2019, and the highest since 1918.

Dignity organised a record breaking 80,300 funerals last year, nearly 11,000 more than the year before.

The company confirmed it became stretched on a number of occasions as deaths during the peak of the pandemic in Q2 47% higher than a year before.

Dignity faced rising costs in addition to limitations on the type of funeral service the company was able to offer.

The company spent more money on personal protective equipment while earning less per service as it withdrew the use of limousines, in addition to limiting the number of guests and, at times, ceasing church services.

Clive Whiley, Chairman of Dignity plc, commented: “During 2020, we have continued to be focused and resilient in the light of many changes, however the business has remained robust.”

“Whilst COVID-19 featured heavily in our day-to-day activities into the first quarter of 2021, we did not lose sight of the numerous project work-streams initiated in the last year, aimed at affording the Board the time and collateral necessary to allow the business to self-heal, without recourse to dilutive funding initiatives,” Whiley added.

“In a unique and challenging year, it is the dedication of our staff that has enabled continued delivery of our services, supported by a refreshed strategy and management team. Our people are fundamental to both the Group’s success and sustainability and I would like to thank them for their significant contribution, resilience and commitment to service during what has been an exceptional time for society, bereaved families, our people and our business.”