Historic British Fish and Chip Equipment Manufacturer Saved from Administration
In a significant development for the UK's cherished fish and chip industry, Henry Nuttall, a renowned manufacturer of frying ranges for chippies, has been successfully rescued from administration. The company, which has been operating for over 160 years, faced financial turmoil following the death of its owner and mounting economic pressures.
Rescue Deal Secures Future and Preserves Jobs
The future of Henry Nuttall has been secured through an acquisition by HN Ranges, facilitated by the RGM Leeds group. This rescue deal, completed for an undisclosed sum, ensures the continuation of a business that proudly describes itself as the original frying range manufacturer in the world. Crucially, all 11 jobs at the company have been preserved, providing stability for employees and maintaining expertise within the sector.
Richard Oddy and Jonathan Mark Amor of Azets Holdings Limited, who were appointed joint administrators on February 6, oversaw the sale process. Mr Oddy highlighted the company's unique position, stating, "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 manufacturer." He explained that financial difficulties arose after the owner's death in March 2024, exacerbated by increasing cost pressures and a decline in product demand.
Historical Legacy and Modern Operations
Founded in 1865, Henry Nuttall began trading from a small backstreet shop in Rochdale. The company expanded significantly post-war, with new chip shops across the region frequently utilising Nuttall's equipment. In the late 1930s, the business relocated to Castle Works in Holmes Street, Rochdale, as it continued to thrive. Today, the company operates a manufacturing factory in Dinnington, Sheffield, maintaining its longstanding commitment to quality and innovation.
The acquisition by HN Ranges, part of the RGM Leeds group, which also includes Hopkins, represents a strategic consolidation within the industry. A spokesperson for RGM Leeds emphasised the positive implications, noting, "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."
Customer Assurance and Future Prospects
For customers, the transition promises continuity. The spokesperson added, "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." This assurance is vital for the many fish and chip shops across Great Britain that have relied on Henry Nuttall's equipment for over a century and a half.
Mr Oddy further elaborated on the rescue's benefits, stating, "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." This outcome not only preserves a proud British brand but also optimises financial recovery for stakeholders.
The rescue deal underscores the resilience of traditional industries in the face of economic challenges, ensuring that Henry Nuttall can continue to support the nation's beloved fish and chip shops for years to come.
