Northern Ireland

Co Down climbing frame manufacturer goes into administration

NI Climbing Frames employs 21 people in Gilford.
NI Climbing Frames employs 21 people in Gilford. NI Climbing Frames employs 21 people in Gilford.

A Co Down manufacturer of children’s outdoor play equipment has gone into administration, placing 21 jobs at risk.

Gilford-based NI Retailers Ltd, which trades as NI Climbing Frames, has appointed Michael Drumm of CavanaghKelly as administrator.

Staff were informed this afternoon of the temporary suspension of production and operations while the administrator carries out a review of the options available to the company.

In a statement, the firm’s founder and owner Herman Manso said: “We set up this business in 2007 and throughout the 15-year history of the company we have never faced the economic challenges and difficulties that are with us today.

“It is with deep regret that we have to make this decision. A combination of difficulties with supply chain, drastically increased operating costs and the current economic climate has led to us to appoint an Administrator.”

Expressing his regret and sadness at the outcome, Mr Manso said: “I want to take this opportunity to pay tribute to our dedicated skilled and talented staff, many of whom have been with the company since its foundation.

“We recognise the terrible blow this has on all the families who depend on the company for employment. Despite our very best and unstinting efforts we find ourselves in this position.”

Customers and suppliers are in the process of being contacted by the administrator and an update is expected to be communicated to all stakeholders within the next week.