Warrington-based haulier John K Philips has been bought in a pre-pack sale by its directors, just one week after calling in the administrators, in a move that has saved jobs and protected smaller creditors.
In a statement the company said the family-run business, which was established more than 52 years ago, entered administration after a major relocation in 2023 that demanded substantial investment.
It added: “The transition brought several challenges, compounded by rising costs for rates, fuel, and wages, as well as difficult market conditions.
“Supported by joint administrators Patrick Lannagan and Richard Hough of insolvency specialist Forvis Mazars LLP, who were appointed on 20 April, the company has successfully restructured and repositioned itself for long-term stability.”
The newly formed business, also known as John K Philips, employs 82 staff and operates a fleet of around 40 trucks and 35 trailers from its Warrington site, which includes a 120,000 sq. ft warehouse. It continues to specialise in transportation, distribution, and warehousing, and is a member of both the Hazchem network and Palletforce.
Managing director John Philips told MT that the relocation from St Helens to Warrington followed the unexpected sale of the previous site, requiring the business to secure a new home within six months.
Philips also highlighted his personal loss of £2.8m, which was loaned to the company to fit out the new premises and ensure smaller creditors were paid.
Looking ahead, Philips remains optimistic. He said: “It has not been easy, but we are now in a strong position. The decision to bring in administrators and proceed with a pre-pack sale has been well supported by our customers and suppliers, and we are now operating on a much healthier footing.
“We have resolved the majority of our smaller creditor obligations, with continued support from our larger partners. Importantly, we have retained all of our staff and customers and move forward with a clean slate.
“We are confident about the future. With decades in the industry, we have built strong, lasting relationships with both customers and suppliers, which continue to underpin our success.”
