A prominent UK railway company, HIRD Railway Services Limited, has entered liquidation after 74 years of operation. The official announcement was published in the London Gazette on Wednesday, with liquidators appointed on February 27, 2026.
The firm, which described itself as an 'industry-leading' supplier of specialist track-related products and services, has been a family-run business since its founding in 1952. Its main trading address is in Doncaster, South Yorkshire.
All assets and the business have been transferred to voestalpine Turnout Technology UK Ltd, ensuring the continued assembly of insulated block joints without interruption. Gareth Howarth and Philip Lawrence from AMS Business Recovery have been appointed as joint liquidators.
Unlike administration, liquidation involves closing down the operation, disposing of assets, and settling debts with creditors. The company's website had emphasised sustainability and close collaboration with clients to pre-empt needs and avoid costly mistakes.
HIRD joins a growing list of British companies that have collapsed in recent weeks, with many citing soaring energy bills and escalating material costs as contributing factors.
