Fish and chip shop giant Henry Nuttall has been supplying your favourite chippies for more than 160 years and has been saved from administration after a rescue deal was agreed
A British fish and chip shop giant had been under threat after going into administration – but thankfully has been saved.
Founded in 1865, Henry Nuttall has been supplying the UK’s favourite chippies with equipment for 161 years. The firm sadly entered administration in February following financial difficulties and the death of its owner.
The future of the company, which describes itself as the ‘original frying range manufacturer in the world’, has now been secured. It was acquired for an undisclosed figure by HN Ranges, through the RGM Leeds group. And what’s more, all 11 jobs were saved too. It is hoped the “added long-term investment” will secure the future of the business.
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Henry Nuttall first began trading from a small backstreet shop in Rochdale. Post-war, the company grew and grew with new chip shops across the area often using Nuttall’s range.
In the late 1930s, the business moved to Castle Works in Holmes Street in Rochdale as it continued to thrive. Nowadays the company has a manufacturing factory in Dinnington, Sheffield.
Richard Oddy and Jonathan Mark Amor of Azets Holdings Limited oversaw the process after being appointed joint administrators on February 6. Mr Oddy said: “Henry Nuttall is one of only two main UK manufacturers of frying ranges, the other being Hopkins, and it was the world’s original frying manufacture.
“The business ran into financial difficulties following the death of the owner in March 2024, with increasing cost pressures and a decline in product demand. Following an extensive sale process a buyer could not be found that was willing to buy the company on a solvent basis.
“With increasing creditor pressure, time was of the essence to preserve a proud brand that dates back to 1865, and has supplied fish and chip shops in Great Britain with frying ranges for more than a century and a half. The team at Hopkins came to the rescue with an acquisition of Henry Nuttall’s business and assets, with all jobs transferred to the buyer, providing a significantly enhanced return for creditors compared to the shutdown alternative.”
A spokesperson for RGM Leeds added: “Henry Nuttall is now part of the RGM Leeds group, alongside Hopkins. This is a positive step that strengthens the long-term future of our business, while allowing us to continue operating as the independent brand trusted by customers.
“For our customers, nothing changes. The same people, products, values and commitment to service remain firmly in place. Day-to-day operations continue as normal, with the added benefit of long-term investment and support behind the scenes. We’re excited about what the future holds and grateful for the continued support of our loyal customers, partners and community.”
