The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has closed its investigation into the Signature Group, the parent company of Signature Living, concluding there is no realistic prospect of conviction. The decision marks the end of a high-profile probe that began in February 2024 with raids across Merseyside and Greater Manchester and four arrests.
Investigation Details
In February 2024, SFO officers raided three properties and arrested four individuals as part of an investigation into the Signature Group, which the SFO described as "a business that attracted over a thousand UK and international investors in the redevelopment of iconic landmarks including Belfast’s Scottish Mutual Building and the Coal Exchange in Cardiff." The company, run by husband-and-wife team Lawrence and Katie Kenwright, specialized in converting historic buildings into luxury hotels, residential apartments, and office spaces.
In Liverpool, the group operated high-profile hotels such as the Shankly Hotel and the Dixie Dean Hotel on Victoria Street. Its portfolio also included Millennium House in Liverpool and a cruise liner marketed as a “flotel” intended for mooring off Canary Wharf in London and traveling to Ibiza.
Financial Collapse
The business collapsed into administration with losses of up to £140 million. In February 2024, the Liverpool Echo reported that Lawrence and Katie Kenwright had both been declared bankrupt.
SFO Statement
In a statement released on July 2, the SFO said: "Following a thorough review, we have closed our investigation into Signature Group as there is no longer a realistic prospect of conviction. This decision reflects our determination to act decisively and focus our resources on cases where we can achieve the strongest outcomes for victims and the public."
The Serious Fraud Office is an independent UK government department that investigates and prosecutes top-tier economic crimes, including high-level bribery, corruption, and complex corporate fraud.
