Four UK companies have collapsed into administration in recent weeks, including a law firm, a housebuilder, a school, and a packaging firm. The companies faced mounting debts, rising costs, and declining demand, forcing them to appoint administrators who now control their assets.
BLB Solicitors Enters Administration Owing £2.5 Million
BLB Solicitors, a high street law firm with offices in Bath, Swindon, and Bradford on Avon, closed its doors on April 30 after falling into administration. The firm owes £2.5 million. A former employee described the situation as an 'absolute shambles' and noted that warning signs had been apparent weeks before the closure. In March 2026, cashflow difficulties prompted directors to seek insolvency guidance, leading to the closure shortly after.
Agile Property and Homes Appoints Administrators
Agile Property and Homes, known for building low-carbon, flat-pack sustainable homes in Bristol and Oxfordshire, appointed administrators on July 6. The company collaborated with charities and housing associations to construct affordable, natural-material properties in as little as 12 weeks. Administrator Andrew Pear cited the rising cost of energy, labour, and raw materials, as well as ongoing pressure from the war in Ukraine, as reasons for the collapse.
St Gerard's School Closes After Administration
St Gerard's School in Bangor, founded in 1915, has officially closed after entering administration. In a notice to families, bosses blamed rising National Insurance costs, the removal of charitable status, the Labour government's imposition of 20% VAT on private school fees, and declining pupil numbers. Most staff have been made redundant, though a skeleton team remains to process exam results and assist affected families.
Derwent Packaging Rescued, Saving 33 Jobs
Derwent Packaging Ltd, a manufacturer of cardboard and retail displays since 1994, entered administration on July 8. However, a quick rescue agreement saw the company purchased by Mailway Displays, protecting the future of its manufacturing facility in Denby. All 33 jobs at the site have been preserved, and customer orders will continue to be fulfilled. The Express has contacted the businesses for comment.
