Well-established timber haulier Coille Haulage has closed down with the loss of 24 jobs after battling tight margins, soaring operating costs and Covid-19 legacy issues, according to its liquidator.
The company, based in Argyll and with operating centres in Lochgilphead and Glasgow, was founded over 20 years ago and held a licence authorising the use of 22 HGVs and 45 trailers.
It was a family-run business that had grown to become a respected and recognised name in Scotland’s round timber supply chain.
Liquidators Michelle Elliot and Callum Carmichael at FRP Advisory were appointed to the haulier on 14 August after it struggled with the trading environment.
FRP said the Coille Haulage’s directors had explored options for additional third-party funding, but no viable solution was available and with critical liabilities falling due, the decision was taken to appoint liquidators.
It is now supporting those affected in submitting claims to the redundancy payments service.
In a statement, FRP said: “An orderly wind-down of the company’s affairs is now underway.
“Parties interested in the company’s freehold site or equipment are invited to make contact with the liquidators directly.”
FRP partner Michelle Elliot, said: “Coille Haulage was a long-standing family business with a strong reputation in the Scottish timber supply chain.
“Like many in the haulage sector, the company faced a perfect storm of challenges – including legacy debts accrued during the pandemic as well as sharp increases in employment and operational costs.
“Operating in a competitive industry, it had limited capacity to pass these cost increases on to its customer base.
“Despite the directors’ best efforts to secure additional funding, the financial position ultimately became unsustainable.”
She added: “Our immediate priority is to support the affected employees and manage an orderly wind-down of the company’s affairs.”
