WT Parker buys Mark Cobb from administrators

Grant Prior 13 years ago
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Burton upon Trent based M&E specialist WT Parker has bought Mark Cobb Installations out of administration saving 30 jobs.

Mark Cobb called-in administrators from FRP Advisory earlier this month after running into cash-flow problems.

FRP have brokered a deal which sees WT Parker (Retail) buy the business and take-on 30 former Mark Cobb staff.

WT Parker has been trading since 1922 and directly employs 300 staff generating a turnover of £25m.

Mark Cobb Installations provides mechanical, electrical and plumbing contracting to developments nationwide from its base in South Hykeham, Lincoln.

FRP said it began to experience trading difficulties after a sustained period of growth, during which the company’s turnover increased from £1m in June 2010 to £4m in June 2012.

Joint administrator Chris Stirland said: “Mark Cobb Installations Limited has experienced rapid growth during the past three years, owing to a good pipeline of clients and an expansion of services.

“Although the company planned for growth, the number and size of contracts exceeded forecasts and working capital requirements. Consequently the business ran into difficulty maintaining supplier payments while waiting for payments from contractors.

“It soon became apparent that the profitability of the contracts had decreased to a level that left the company in an unmanageable cash flow situation.

“In order to safeguard the jobs of around 30 employees and the value of the business, it was decided by directors to place the company into administration with the help of FRP Advisory LLP, while seeking a buyer for the business.

“As a part of this deal, all 30 employees have transferred under TUPE to the new company, which will continue to trade under the name of Mark Cobb Installations Limited, which has also been purchased along with other assets.”

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