Five well-loved UK companies have entered administration in the past two weeks
With less than three months into 2026, the number of firms in the UK entering administration and even closing permanently has witnessed a significant increase. This year, numerous businesses have come forward to reveal their struggles, including fashion brands, building companies, food distributors, energy providers, and others, which is impacting countless jobs.
Over the past fortnight, a staggering 40 firms entered administration, according to notices released in The Gazette, the official public register of the UK.
In January 2026, the number of administrations was 41% greater than in December 2025 and 14% higher compared to January 2025, according to Government figures.
In recent weeks, a well-known sporting goods retailer, an energy firm, a furniture chain, a food distributor and a construction company have fallen into administration.
1. King Foods
Established in 1994, King Foods has entered administration, resulting in over 40 employees being made redundant.
The Aberdeen-based company was responsible for supplying frozen foods, fresh fish products, dry goods, and fresh and frozen meat to hotel and retail catering businesses across north-east Scotland. The food company also runs its stores in Edinburgh and Stirling.
The company was compelled to make a tough decision after facing intense pressure from escalating operational expenses and growing competition within the industry.
2. Quicks Archery
Established by David George Quick, Quicks Archery has been supplying archery equipment, components, kits, books, accessories and gifts since the business launched in 1949.
The firm has entered administration, with all website orders postponed. A notice in The London Gazette was released on Wednesday (March 11), confirming that the Holmfirth-based business had appointed Jonathan Paul Philmore of Philmore & Co Ltd as administrator.
As of Wednesday, Quicks Archery’s official website displays a message indicating that all online orders will be delayed. The notice reads: “Due to a restructure of the business, all orders placed via the website will be delayed. Thanks for your patience and understanding.”
3. Amber Energy Solutions LTD
Amber Energy Solutions LTD has gone into administration, leaving 170 staff members seeking new employment. The UK energy firm has appointed administrators, as reported by The Gazette on Monday (March 9).
The seemingly successful mid-size company has been hailed as the UK’s “number one independent third party intermediary (TPI) in the energy sector,” and it was recognised as one of the top 101 most innovative energy efficiency companies in the UK in 2021, according to the Cold Chain Federation.
4. Pagazzi Lighting
Pagazzi Lighting, well-known throughout Scotland and Northern England, was established nearly fifty years ago and has become a trusted specialist for decorative lighting, mirrors and home accessories.
However, the well-liked family furniture business has gone into administration, resulting in the closure of 11 shops and leaving numerous employees jobless.
Despite a 45-year operation, the firm’s past success wasn’t sufficient to protect it from a “sustained period of poor trading” and escalating financial strains.
5. M&J Builders
M&J Builders, located in Oldham, has appointed Craig Johns and Jason Mark Elliott of Cowgills Limited, Bolton, as administrators, according to The Gazette.
The builders provide a range of services, including construction work, strip and demolition, ground works, diamond drilling, concrete cutting and roofing.
This follows another construction company, Kilmarnock-based Alastair Dick Tarmac Ltd, also entering administration after over a decade in operation.
