Five UK businesses have entered administration this month with 763 jobs and 18 sites at risk as companies face rising costs, inflation and weak demand
Five UK firms have fallen into administration as they grapple with a host of challenges, both unique to the country and global in nature. Soaring costs, inflation, and sluggish demand are universal problems as supply chains face disruption and households a burdened with escalating living expenses.
Amongst these companies TGI Fridays’ UK arm fell into administration on January 13, with Interpath taking over Liberty Bar and Restaurant group, which managed TGI Fridays’ UK outlets. A total of 16 restaurants have been closed, leaving 456 staff jobless.
Phil Broad, TGI Fridays global president has stated: “We have been working closely to explore all available options for securing the long-term future of TGI Fridays in the UK, and believe that this is the best outcome for the business, preserves jobs, and offers a strong platform for success and growth.
“TGI Fridays has a long history in the UK, and I believe that the future of the brand is in strong hands – focused on reinvigorating the brand while continuing to deliver the bold flavours, welcoming atmosphere, and high-energy dining experience that define TGI Fridays,” reports the Express.
Ryan Grant, the managing director at Interpath and joint administrator, expressed his satisfaction with the recent developments, stating: “We are pleased to have been able to secure this transaction, which will see this well-known brand continue to trade across the UK. While these have been difficult times for hospitality operators generally, this marks a pivotal step in TGI Friday’s wider turnaround plan, putting in place stable foundations upon which it can begin to move forward.”
The Wales-based firm Consumer Energy Solutions has abruptly ceased trading earlier this month, putting 295 jobs at risk. The company announced: “Please note that James Saunders and Michael Lennon of KR8 Advisory Limited were appointed as Joint Administrators of Consumer Energy Solutions Limited on January 9, 2026, the Company has ceased trading with immediate effect. The Company is unable to complete any further work for customers.”
The statement added: “It should be noted that the Administration of the Company does not involve any other companies in the City Energy Group. The Joint Administrators will be contacting creditors and employees directly to confirm the next steps and how claims will be processed. You do not need to do anything further at this stage.”
Meanwhile, Phantom Brewing Company, which ran Echoes bar in Gardiner Place, Henley-on-Thames, shut down the venue in December and entered administration.
Their taproom in Reading is also set to close its doors. Documents have surfaced revealing that the company owes a staggering £2.289 million to creditors. Administrators David Rubin and David Birne, from Begbies Traynor, took the reins on December 23 to navigate Phantom’s financial woes.
Phantom announced on Instagram: “As many of you know, we had already been planning the next chapter for Phantom, including a relocation to a new production facility. We will now be focusing on this as a priority.”
The statement added: “With that in mind, we’ll be entering an extended shutdown this winter whilst we finalise this transition and prepare for a future relaunch from a new home. As we will be unable to continue production during this time, we will be closing our taproom in Reading and Echoes, as well as pausing all trade sales until further notice.”
Meanwhile, Great Clothing Ltd, trading as Big Boys, in Leeds has shut its doors and commenced administration proceedings. The firm catered to “branded men’s fashion in big sizes” and employed an average of 12 staff, according to records, as reported by The Sun.
Chris Brooksbank of CB Business Recovery Ltd has been appointed to oversee the process. Separately, London -based full fibre broadband provider G.Network entered administration on January 12. In a reassuring statement, the company said: “The Company will continue to trade as normal, with its services being delivered to existing and new customers.”
The Joint Administrators will be working closely with G.Network’s management team to support the ongoing operations of the business and maintain its service standards, and they have secured sufficient funding for the administration process.
The statement said: “The Company benefits from a robust network and a strong customer base. The administrators do not anticipate that there will be any adverse impact on customers.”