UK fish and chip shop giant saved from administration – in business since 1865 | UK | News

A UK fish and chip shop giant which has been supplying chippies across the UK for 161 years has been saved from administration after a rescue deal was agreed. Henry Nuttall, which provided chip shops with fryers, had been under threat after going into administration. The business was founded in 1865 and it describes itself as the “original frying range manufacturer in the world.” It entered administration at the start of February after running into “financial difficulties” following the death of the owner.

The company’s future has now been secured after it was acquired for an undisclosed figure by HN Ranges, through the RGM Leeds group, an unconnected company which also owns Hopkins, another big name in British range manufacturing. All 11 jobs have been saved and it is hoped the “added long-term investment” will secure the future of the business.

Richard Oddy and Jonathan Mark Amor of Azets Holdings Limited were appointed joint administrators on February 6 and oversaw the process.

Mr Oddy said: “Henry Nuttall is one of only two main UK manufacturers of frying ranges, the other being Hopkins, and it was the world’s original frying manufacture.

“The business ran into financial difficulties following the death of the owner in March 2024, with increasing cost pressures and a decline in product demand.

“Following an extensive sale process a buyer could not be found that was willing to buy the company on a solvent basis.

“With increasing creditor pressure, time was of the essence to preserve a proud brand that dates back to 1865, and has supplied fish and chip shops in Great Britain with frying ranges for more than a century and a half.

“The team at Hopkins came to the rescue with an acquisition of Henry Nuttall’s business and assets, with all jobs transferred to the buyer, providing a significantly enhanced return for creditors compared to the shutdown alternative.”

Henry Nuttall first began trading from a small backstreet shop in Rochdale. Post-war, the company grew and grew with new chip shops across the area often using Nuttall’s range.

In the late 1930s, the business moved to Castle Works in Holmes Street in Rochdale as it continued to thrive. Nowadays the company has a manufacturing factory in Sheffield.

A spokesperson for RGM Leeds added: “Henry Nuttall is now part of the RGM Leeds group, alongside Hopkins.

“This is a positive step that strengthens the long-term future of our business, while allowing us to continue operating as the independent brand trusted by customers.

“For our customers, nothing changes. The same people, products, values and commitment to service remain firmly in place. Day-to-day operations continue as normal, with the added benefit of long-term investment and support behind the scenes.

“We’re excited about what the future holds and grateful for the continued support of our loyal customers, partners and community.”