UK Jeweller Worth £30m Enters Administration After Decades of Family Ownership

After decades of family ownership, C W Sellors, a notable name in the UK jewellery sector, has entered administration. Established in 1979, this family-run chain spanned 10 stores across the Midlands and North of England, including locations in Shrewsbury, York, and Ashbourne.

Administrative Action and Redundancies

In early October, business advisory firm BDO appointed joint administrators Lee Causer and Ben Peterson to oversee the firm’s operations. This decision followed financial difficulties leading to 36 immediate redundancies. At its peak, C W Sellors employed 86 staff members.

Impact of Store Closures

As part of the restructuring, BDO decided to consolidate the company’s Whitby locations into one shop, W Hamond, leading to the closure of four stores. Despite these challenges, C W Sellors continues to operate its other retail locations.

Financial Challenges

The company has faced mounting financial pressures. Rising operational costs and a weakened market position, largely due to the cost-of-living crisis, have severely impacted cash flow. In its latest report, C W Sellors’ turnover decreased from £30.4 million to £28.5 million in the year ending April 2024, highlighting the ongoing financial strain.

Continuing Operations

Despite the current circumstances, C W Sellors maintains that it continues to trade. Customers can still place in-person orders across its stores located in:

• Ashbourne
• Bakewell
• Shrewsbury
• Matlock
• York
• Whitby

However, the company has temporarily halted online orders amid the administrative process.

Pursuing New Ownership

The joint administrators are actively seeking a buyer who can revitalize C W Sellors. The firm has established itself as an independent jeweller, offering a selection of luxury watches and fine jewellery from distinguished brands.

Merchandise and Industry Affiliations

C W Sellors features collections that include:

• Diamond jewellery
• Gemstone jewellery
• UK gemstones, notably Derbyshire Blue John and Whitby Jet

Exclusive brands available include IWC Schaffhausen, Breitling, TAG Heuer, Gucci, Longines, Montblanc, Oris, and Bremont. C W Sellors also collaborates with the Company of Master Jewellers, recognized as the largest watch and jewellery buying group in the UK.

As the company navigates this challenging period, it has emphasized its commitment to serving customers and appreciates their continued support.