A series of UK businesses, including a major furniture manufacturer and a historic pottery brand, have entered administration as rising operational costs continue to strain the market.
The Belfield Group, owner of Westbridge Furniture and Belfield Leisure, has appointed administrators after failing to secure sufficient funding. Westbridge, which employs around 300 staff and supplies sofas to retailers such as Marks & Spencer, John Lewis and Next, has struggled with poor trading performance and cashflow issues. Belfield Leisure, employing approximately 200 people, has also been affected.
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Denby, the heritage pottery company founded in 1809, entered administration on 31 March after failing to secure investment aligned with its long-term strategy. The business continues to operate from its Derbyshire site.
Administrations have been reported across multiple sectors, reflecting wider economic pressures including increased operating costs and weakened demand.
While administration does not necessarily mean closure, it often leads to restructuring, potential site closures and job losses. Across the affected businesses, hundreds of roles are now at risk as efforts continue to stabilise operations or secure buyers.
Source: www.mirror.co.uk
