Last call for popular Staffordshire gin company as administrator fails to find buyer
An award-winning Staffordshire gin company has closed its doors permanently after administrators brought in following the owner's death failed to secure a buyer.
Nelson's Distillery & School in Grindley, between Stafford and Uttoxeter, had entered administration in July, having experienced operational disruption following the death of founder Neil Harrison in March.
The business sale included a fully equipped distillery and a 14-station gin school, but the administrator Martin Williamson said that despite the business receiving more than 30 expressions of interest, a going concern sale of the business and assets was not achieved.
Mr Williamson, of Cheadle-based insolvency firm ipd, has now confirmed that the company ceased trading on July 31.
He said: “Despite receiving over 30 expressions of interest following the company entering administration a going concern sale of the business and assets was not achieved.
"The offers received were below the level required to take forward.”
A sale of the company’s physical assets, including the complete distillery set-up, gin school equipment and bottled gin stock, was concluded by online auction on Monday, August 25.
A separate sale of the trademarks, recipes for Nelson’s award-winning gins and rums, and its established brand and digital presence has been agreed, allowing the name to continue with a third party.
Established in 2016, Nelson’s quickly rose to prominence with its flagship London Dry No.7 gin and the distinctive Signature Blend Rum, winning multiple international accolades and building a reputation for excellence in both production and customer experience.
The business includes a fully-equipped distillery and a 14-station Gin School, as well as a strong digital presence, brand recognition, and proven retail appeal.
Nelson’s has also produced private-label spirits for high-profile chefs and restaurants, including collaborations with Michel Roux and La Gavroche.
Nelson’s has also consistently featured in TripAdvisor’s global top 10 per cent of attractions for seven consecutive years and holds more than 15 international awards.
A statement by the Nelson’s team on the company’s website when it went into administration thanked past customers and visitors.
It said: “On behalf of Neil’s family and the entire Nelson’s team, we would like to express our heartfelt thanks for your incredible support, enthusiasm and love for Nelson’s products and experiences over the years.
"Thank you for being a part of our story.”
