Astleys (John Astley and Sons), specialising in workwear, personal protective equipment, cleaning products and other tools has entered administration. The Coventry based company is a legacy British business, with more than 295 years since it first began trading. The business owners and leaders decided to close it while they were still able to pay staff, supporters and creditors. In their official statement, it was announced that Astleys is conducting a controlled shut-down. It has officially entered solvent liquidation in May 2025.  

The company had their headquarters in Coventry Business Park. Founded in 1730, it was one of the oldest surviving businesses in the city. When asked about the reason for entering liquidation, Directors David and Jonathan Astley cited operational costs and rising inflation as the main factors that led to its closure. 

This is not the first business to say so; hundreds of UK businesses, even those with a defined legacy, have fallen into financial distress. The higher employment tax rate, along with the increased minimum wage announced in the Spring Budget have pushed businesses under. The liquidation was sparked by various factors, including changes to buying habits after COVID.

The statement ‘If only history paid the bills’ was released on the official website. Customers, especially long standing loyal consumers have expressed their sadness on this closure, and their solidarity with the business. It is worth mentioning that over the course of its history, Astleys has been a major job generator in Coventry. 

While there has been a surge in multinational firms in the West Midlands, this liquidation will affect the city’s taxes, dues and employment levels. In fact, in a market dominated by international, entrepreneurial and cross border companies, Astleys was one of the last independent businesses that continued to trade from Coventry.