A longstanding manufacturer in the UK bedding industry has ceased trading after 35 years, following a series of unsuccessful restructuring efforts. Despite changes to its product range and increased investment in sales staff, the company was unable to reverse the decline in revenue caused by market instability, rising operational costs, and industry-wide downturns.
In early 2025, administrators were formally appointed after a strategic review confirmed insolvency. The company had attempted to address supply chain issues by increasing stock levels in late 2023. However, this move coincided with a broader slump in the furniture sector throughout 2024, with many firms experiencing sales drops of up to 40%.
The manufacturer, Vogue Beds Limited, introduced value-driven models, reduced production hours, and hired a new sales director in an effort to revitalise operations. These actions proved insufficient. Upon entering administration in April 2025, all 49 staff were made redundant and trading ceased immediately.
Asset valuations estimated the stock at £303,000, but expected recoveries were between 10–15% of this value. One partial offer of £14,000 plus VAT was accepted while other enquiries are ongoing. Book debts of nearly £105,000 were expected to realise £85,490, with £80,950 already collected at the time of reporting.
Outstanding liabilities included £204,736 owed to HMRC and £47,890 in employee claims. Unsecured creditors, including £277,000 in inter-company loans and £407,000 in trade debts, were owed a combined £1.1 million, with projected losses totalling £1.28 million.
The company expressed "deep regret" over the closure, citing post-Covid challenges and financial pressures as key drivers. Directors stated that despite "exhaustive efforts to restructure and seek alternative solutions," administration was deemed the only viable option.
Source: www.bigfurnituregroup.com