Kitchen components manufacturer Multiwood has officially entered administration, with FRP Advisory appointed to manage the process. This development follows the company’s notice to appoint administrators filed on December 24, 2024.

Speculation about Multiwood’s financial troubles had circulated since the filing, and as of January 14, 2025, the administration was confirmed. Staff were reportedly informed of the situation earlier this month, though specific details surrounding the decision remain unclear.

Andrew Greenhouse, Multiwood’s national sales manager, addressed the situation publicly on January 13. Greenhouse, who has been on leave since early December, revealed he was informed of the administration on January 2. The news came as a significant surprise, as staff had been assured in 2024 of new ownership and plans for investment to support the company’s growth.

In 2024, Multiwood reportedly saw improvements in sales and profitability, particularly in the second half of the year, and made strategic moves, such as recruiting new area sales managers and expanding its partnerships with independent retail showrooms. Plans for further business growth in 2025, including onboarding new OEM accounts, were in motion before the administration announcement.

Despite these positive indicators, the company is now grappling with the fallout. Customers report limited communication from Multiwood, and attempts to reach the company by phone have been unsuccessful. Compounding the situation, Multiwood missed its financial accounts filing deadline on December 31, 2024.

Established in 1987 by Doug Allan and Eric Kershaw, Multiwood grew into a respected supplier of premium kitchen doors, handles, and accessories, operating out of a 65,000 sq. ft. warehouse in Bury. The company remains under the leadership of Doug Allan’s children, Ben and Caroline Allan.

The administration marks a significant challenge for the industry, following the closure of International Decorative Surfaces (IDS) in November 2024, which had been one of the UK’s largest decorative surface distributors. Multiwood’s future now hinges on the administration process, as stakeholders await updates on potential resolutions or the possibility of a buyer stepping in to salvage the business.