Airsprung, the UK furniture retailer that has been in business for 150 years, has entered administration after facing tough trading conditions and mounting cash flow pressures. The company, based on Canal Road in Trowbridge, Wiltshire, makes mattresses and beds for major retailers, hotels, and sports stadium seating under brands Gainsborough and Airofreem.
Administration and Job Losses
Of its 202 employees, 71 were made redundant immediately upon appointment, while the remaining staff were retained to assist with ongoing operations. The newly filed documents on Companies House show that preferential creditor employee claims from Airsprung Furniture Limited are owed £255,000, while HMRC is owed £1.4 million, expected to be repaid from realised assets valued at £3.4 million.
Background and Efforts to Avoid Administration
In an effort to address financial issues, Airsprung explored potential investment opportunities and possible offers for the business. However, due to its financial position and the level of interest received, the directors ultimately had no option but to place the company into administration.
Administrators' Actions
On May 1, 2026, Edward Williams and Ross Connock of PwC were appointed joint administrators of Airsprung Group PLC and Airsprung Furniture Limited. A notice from administrators stated that they continue to trade the Airsprung and Airofreem businesses. The Factory Shop on Canal Road Industrial Estate, Trowbridge remains open under regular hours, offering discounted prices for various stock lines. However, orders cannot be taken through the Factory Shop Website. Gainsborough, Arena-design, Hushabyebeds and Swanglen have ceased trading upon appointment of the joint administrators.
Reactions
Edward Williams of PwC said: "It’s very sad that this well-known business with 150 years of history and iconic brands within the mattress and bed industry has had to go into administration. We know that this is an unsettling time for everyone impacted and we will support employees through the redundancy process." Airsprung's CEO and Director Tean Dallaway added: "It is very sad and disappointing that the business had entered administration. I would like to sincerely thank our customers and suppliers for their support over many years, and most importantly our employees for their dedication, professionalism, and hard work."
