Glens of Antrim Potatoes Ltd, the Northern Ireland-based crisp manufacturer founded in 1972, has ceased trading after entering administration. The company, which supplied potatoes to retailers across the UK and Ireland before launching its Glens of Antrim Crisps brand in 2015, collapsed with the vast majority of its 95 employees made redundant.
Administrators Appointed
Stuart Irwin, Ian Leonard and Robin Coughlin of Interpath were appointed joint administrators on 21 September to oversee the company's affairs. A small number of employees have been kept on to assist with the administration process.
The company, based in Cushendall and Ballymena, had expanded into the snack market with its crisps going on sale in major supermarkets including Tesco and Sainsbury's.
Financial Difficulties
The collapse came amid mounting cost pressures across the agri-food industry, which created challenges for businesses at every stage of the supply chain. As a consequence, Glens of Antrim experienced serious cash flow difficulties.
The firm's directors explored a range of options, including refinancing arrangements and attempts to secure fresh investment, but were unable to find a viable solution. The business ceased trading immediately after administrators were appointed.
Support for Staff
Administrators, supported by their employment specialists, are now providing guidance and assistance to staff affected by the closure.
Stuart Irwin said: "Glens of Antrim has been growing and supplying potatoes across Ireland for over 50 years, so this is a tremendously sad outcome for the business, its dedicated team, the agri-food sector in Northern Ireland, and the wider community in Ballymena and Cushendall."
