A number of UK businesses have had to call in administrators of late, with employees at risk of losing their jobs.
Many British firms are struggling (Image: Getty)
Many British businesses are having a torrid time of it for a myriad of reasons, both unique to the UK and worldwide. Rising costs and inflation and weak demand are international issues, as supply chains are disrupted and households contend with a higher cost of living.
Some firms have also bemoaned the Government’s policies, such as an increase in employers’ National Insurance contributions, and their impact on their finances. A number of companies have been plunged into administration of late, putting jobs and stores at risk.
TGI Fridays’ UK operations are in administration (Image: Getty)
TGI Fridays’ UK operations entered administration on January 13, with Interpath appointed to Liberty Bar and Restaurant group, which oversaw TGI Fridays’ UK restaurants. 16 of them have been shut, leaving 456 employees out of a job.
“We have been working closely to explore all available options for securing the long-term future of TGI Fridays in the UK, and believe that this is the best outcome for the business, preserves jobs, and offers a strong platform for success and growth”, Phil Broad, TGI Fridays global president, said.
“TGI Fridays has a long history in the UK, and I believe that the future of the brand is in strong hands – focused on reinvigorating the brand while continuing to deliver the bold flavours, welcoming atmosphere, and high-energy dining experience that define TGI Fridays.”
Ryan Grant, managing director at Interpath and joint administrator, said: “We are pleased to have been able to secure this transaction, which will see this well-known brand continue to trade across the UK. While these have been difficult times for hospitality operators generally, this marks a pivotal step in TGI Friday’s wider turnaround plan, putting in place stable foundations upon which it can begin to move forward.”
Wales-based firm Consumer Energy Solutions ceased trading with “immediate effect” earlier this month. 295 jobs are reportedly at risk.
It said: “Please note that James Saunders and Michael Lennon of KR8 Advisory Limited were appointed as Joint Administrators of Consumer Energy Solutions Limited on January 9, 2026, the Company has ceased trading with immediate effect. The Company is unable to complete any further work for customers.
Administrators of Consumer Energy Solutions have been appointed (Image: Getty)
“It should be noted that the Administration of the Company does not involve any other companies in the City Energy Group. The Joint Administrators will be contacting creditors and employees directly to confirm the next steps and how claims will be processed. You do not need to do anything further at this stage.”
Phantom Brewing Company operated Echoes bar in Gardiner Place, Henley-on-Thames, but the company shut the venue in December and entered administration.
Its taproom in Reading is also closing. Documents have revealed that debts totalling £2.289million are owed to creditors.
David Rubin and David Birne, of insolvency firm Begbies Traynor, were appointed to manage the situation on December 23.
Phantom said on Instagram: “As many of you know, we had already been planning the next chapter for Phantom, including a relocation to a new production facility. We will now be focusing on this as a priority.
“With that in mind, we’ll be entering an extended shutdown this winter whilst we finalise this transition and prepare for a future relaunch from a new home. As we will be unable to continue production during this time, we will be closing our taproom in Reading and Echoes, as well as pausing all trade sales until further notice.”
Great Clothing Ltd. in Leeds, widely known by its trading name Big Boys, has confirmed it has closed its doors and entered into administration.
The firm specialised in “branded men’s fashion in big sizes” and employed an average of 12 people according to documents, The Sun reported.
The company has appointed Chris Brooksbank of CB Business Recovery Ltd.
London-based full fibre broadband provider G.Network appointed administrators on January 12.
It said: “The Company will continue to trade as normal, with its services being delivered to existing and new customers. The Joint Administrators will be working closely with G.Network’s management team to support the ongoing operations of the business and maintain its service standards, and they have secured sufficient funding for the administration process.
“The Company benefits from a robust network and a strong customer base. The administrators do not anticipate that there will be any adverse impact on customers.”
