Shopfitter Chas Smith Group placed into administration

Founded in 1921, the Chas Smith Group Limited (CSG) specialised in the design and installation of high-end fit-outs, predominantly for automotive showrooms.

The business, which also operated in Hoddesdon (north London), had nine employees.

Joint administrator Michelle Elliot, partner of FRP Advisory, said: “Chas Smith Group was a high-end shopfitting business with a number of well-known customers nationally across the UK. The business has unfortunately been severely affected by the pandemic, with a number of projects cancelled or suspended, coupled with increased labour and raw material costs.

“These challenges have resulted in significant cash flow difficulties. Despite every effort by its directors to keep the business trading, the severe financial problems meant the company was not viable.

“Unfortunately, all nine members of staff have been made redundant with immediate effect. We will be working closely with the Redundancy Payments Service and other agencies to minimise the impact on the staff.”

FRP is also exploring a sale of the business and assets, either in whole or in part, as quickly as possible. Interested parties can contact Kris Tosh of FRP by email at kris.tosh@frpadvisory.com.