Important update: Read the official announcement from the Board of Directors, published 17th July
The Directors for The Alan Nuttall Partnership today announced a proposal to begin an orderly wind-down of business operations at the Nuttall brand, based in Dudley, and to start consultation with Partners (employees).
The proposal follows a comprehensive strategic review of the company’s financial position, operational cost-base and future prospective business. Despite the efforts of Partners, management and stakeholders, it has been increasingly difficult to remain competitive against a backdrop of extremely challenging trading conditions within the retail sector.
The company will continue operating throughout the consultation process to support customers, fulfil commitments where possible and if necessary, manage the closure process. If, after consultation, the proposal is taken forward it is anticipated that the business will cease trading around October 2026.
Recently appointed CEO, Richard Hall, said: “While no final decision has been made at this stage, we recognise the deep concern that this announcement will cause our valued Partners and their families. Our immediate priority is for a meaningful consultation as to how we might avoid or reduce redundancies and mitigate the impact for Partners. We are committed to supporting our Partners, clients and suppliers through this period and we thank them for their commitment over the years.”
For many years, Nuttall has been a respected name within the UK retail shopfitting industry, and the Board would like to recognise the dedication and contribution of both past and present Partners who have helped shape the business throughout its history.
In 2018, the Nuttall brand underwent a change in leadership with an improved business strategy that helped navigate through its challenges, which supported through the Covid-19 pandemic. Whilst it included a significant transformation project to be able to continue trading, this change in strategic direction enabled Nuttall to trade up until now. Through the challenges of a shrinking retail market sector, the business has continued to investigate cost-saving measures to get back to profitability. However, the strategic review by the Board of Directors highlighted that the significant cost pressures of energy and employment, together with the competitive nature of retail shopfitting, unfortunately means that closing the business is believed to be the most responsible course of action.
The proposal has no impact on Parent company The Alan Nuttall Partnership and Flexeserve, a brand of The Alan Nuttall Partnership based in Hinckley, Leicestershire. Flexeserve, which continues to operate independently from Nuttall, remains a strong and growing business that is investing in new products, international expansion, and customers to deliver its long-term growth strategy.
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