Accell UK and Ireland, the company behind the 139-year-old Nottinghamshire-based bike maker Raleigh, has filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators as its parent group initiates insolvency proceedings. The company, owned by Netherlands-based Accell Group, announced the move on Thursday, August 6, 2026.
CEO Expresses Frustration
Accell's chief executive Jonas Nilsson described the situation as "a deeply sad and frustrating situation given all the hard work and everything we have achieved, with the support of shareholders and lenders, to restructure Accell's operations and finances." He added, "It is an especially difficult moment for our employees, creditors, customers, suppliers, and partners."
Nilsson stated that "every realistic option for the future of the business has been tirelessly explored, and none have resulted in a solution to continue the Group in its current form." He emphasized the immediate focus on supporting an orderly process and working with court-appointed administrators to preserve viable activities and employment where possible.
Raleigh's History and Transition
Raleigh was founded in Nottingham in 1887 and gained fame for models like the Chopper, known for its extended handlebars and now part of its retro range. Accell acquired Raleigh in 2012 for around 100 million US dollars (£74 million), adding it to a portfolio of European bike brands including Haibike, Winora, and Ghost.
Under Accell's ownership, Raleigh shifted focus to electric bikes. The company no longer manufactures bikes in Nottingham, and its head office has moved to Eastwood, Nottinghamshire. Accell underwent restructuring in February, securing additional funding from shareholders and lenders to reduce debts, but has now initiated insolvency proceedings in the Netherlands.
