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PKF Smith Cooper has helped save almost 100 Midlands jobs across three transport, manufacturing and retail operations businesses in recent months.
This comes as increasing cost pressures and post-Covid disruption continue to push regional firms into financial distress.
PKF Smith Cooper’s Business Recovery and Restructuring team, led by Dean Nelson, advised on all three transactions, working closely with legal and financial advisors to secure the best possible outcomes.
PKF Smith Cooper oversaw the sale of Nottingham-based haulage company, Martyn Barratt Transport Limited, to Zero Degree Logistics Ltd, securing all 40 jobs and ensuring continuity of service for nationwide customers.
The company had faced impending administration due to rising wages, insurance and operating costs, alongside the disruption of the owner’s planned retirement.
Meanwhile, it oversaw the sale of family-run Willenhall laser-cutting and fabrication business, JLC Form and Laser Ltd, to Savekers Solutions Ltd, preserving all 11 jobs.
The group had seen profit fall post-Covid due to the impact of rising inflation in steel prices and supply chain disruption since the war in Ukraine.
Finally, it oversaw the pre-package sale of Staffordshire-based retail support provider, UK Operation Project Support Ltd, to Euro Operational Project Support Ltd, safeguarding all 37 jobs and protecting the company’s client relationships.
The group had experienced extended periods of inactivity due to Brexit and Covid-related site closures.
In each case, the business owners sought specialist support at an early stage, a factor that Dean states was “key” to preserving jobs and protecting value.
Nelson said: “These three cases demonstrate why early intervention is key. When owners are proactive and act at the first signs of pressure, we can preserve jobs, protect goodwill and secure better outcomes for everyone involved in the business.”
He added: “Waiting too long will limit the options available and affect any chances of recovery.”
