Firkins involved in second takeover

Bakery firm Firkins went into administration for the second time in 12 months, it has emerged.

The company that runs the bakery in Black Lake, West Bromwich and a chain of shops around the region announced plans earlier this week to open more shops.

There has also been an ongoing recruitment drive for managers and part-time staff, just over a year after being saved from administration in a last-minute buyout deal by owner Ian Bolderston.

But it has now been rev-ealed that the company faced the same situation last month, when Firkins Foods Ltd, the company set up to save the famous name in November 2008, was placed into administration by Worcester-based MB Insolvency.

Company boss Sarah Bolderston today confirmed that it had been placed in administration, blaming an ongoing dispute with contractors.

But she added that it was now business as usual and the firm would be honouring existing contracts.

According to details recorded with Companies House, Firkins Foods Ltd went into administration on November 11, but Firkins bakery was taken over by another new company set up by Mr Bolderston on the same day, Newbridge Bakery Ltd.

On Tuesday company director Sarah Bolderston told the Express & Star that Firkins had enjoyed a "much improved year" since the merger.

One supplier based in West Bromwich, who did not wish to be named, claimed that he had unpaid invoices of more than £1,095 billed to Firkins Foods Ltd for work carried out at three shops.

Ms Bolderston said today: "As far as the business is concerned we are doing well. We pay cash on delivery, if there is anyone who hasn't been paid they should get in touch."