Major West Midlands furniture brand ceases to trade in 'extremely difficult decision'
Two renowned Midlands furniture firms have ceased trading after failing to secure new ownership amid economic challenges.
Two well-known Midlands furniture firms have entered administration after efforts to secure new ownership proved unsuccessful, Insider Media reports.
The parent company’s chief executive described the move as an “extremely difficult decision and one we deeply regret having to make.”
Ashley Manor, a Dudley-based manufacturer of upholstered furniture, and Alexander & James Sofas, a British-designed import brand with its UK head office in Nottinghamshire, are both part of TCM Living Group. Joint administrators from Opus have been appointed.
The companies, which filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators on 27 August 2025, were unable to attract viable offers that would allow them to continue trading.
Despite extensive marketing during the moratorium period, all interested parties eventually withdrew, citing ongoing economic uncertainty and persistent challenges in the sector.
Both businesses will cease trading with immediate effect, following factory closures on Monday 15 September 2025.
Ashley Manor specialised in UK-based upholstered furniture manufacturing, while Alexander & James operated as TCM Living’s premium import brand, with British-designed sofas produced in Thailand and distributed to retailers in the UK and overseas.
Andy Kennaugh, chief executive of TCM Living Group, said: “This has been an extremely difficult decision and one we deeply regret having to make. Despite our intensive efforts over recent weeks and the support we’ve received, we have exhausted all viable options for securing new ownership that would preserve these businesses.
“Both Ashley Manor and Alexander & James have been well-respected brands in the UK furniture industry, and we are committed to handling this process with dignity whilst ensuring all stakeholders receive the support they need.”
Colin Wilson, managing partner at Opus, added: “The current economic climate is particularly challenging for all businesses in the furniture market. The cost-of-living pressures have had a direct impact on recent sales volumes, due to the tight squeeze on discretionary spending for all consumers. It is unfortunate that a buyer could not be secured in this instance and we now enter the process of realising the company’s assets for the benefit of creditors.”
Parent company TCM Corporation PLC acquired Ashley Manor and Alexander & James as part of its UK expansion strategy. Alstons Upholstery, another business within the TCM Living Group portfolio, is not affected by the administration and continues to trade as normal.
Pimol Srivikorn, chairman of TCMC PLC, said: “The decision to exit these UK operations was not made lightly but reflects the fundamental shift in Britain’s economic landscape since our initial investment over ten years ago.
“We have witnessed firsthand how regulatory uncertainty, fiscal policy changes, and persistent economic headwinds have created an environment where even well-established businesses with strong brand recognition cannot attract viable investment for continuation.
“This outcome, while disappointing, reinforces our strategic pivot towards markets that offer greater stability and growth potential. Our thoughts are with the dedicated employees who have contributed so much to these brands over the years.”