Operating from depots in Aberdeen and Grangemouth, the company provides crane hire and lifting services throughout the UK.

Whyte Crane Services took over the activities of Whyte Crane Hire, which went into administration in February 2020.

The company expanded its trading activities in early 2020 but was significantly impacted by the onset of the first Covid-19 lockdown. Despite government support, with its asset base subject to significant finance arrangements, further lockdowns and significant competition in the market, the company could not service its commitments.

Despite attempts made by the director to exit unprofitable contracts and reduce its overheads, trading losses continued and in recent months, the position deteriorated such that the director determined trading should cease.

Geoff Jacobs and Rick Harrison from Interpath Advisory were appointed joint administrators of Whyte Crane Services Limited on 26 August 2022.

The business ceased to trade prior to the appointment of the joint administrators.

Geoff Jacobs, managing director at Interpath Advisory and joint administrator, said: “Since our appointment, our focus has been to provide support to the workforce through the redundancy process, as well as safeguarding the company’s plant and equipment; and arranging for the safe return of financed cranes to the appropriate providers.

“In the days ahead, we will also be seeking to market the company’s website, its well-known name and customer book, together with realising all other assets. We would encourage any interested parties to come forward as soon as possible.”