The company responsible for iconic British bikemaker Raleigh has filed for administration.
Accell UK and Ireland, part of the Netherlands-based Accell Group, filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators as the wider group kick-started insolvency proceedings.
The company bought Raleigh in 2012 for around 100 million US dollars (£74 million), adding to its roster of bike brands throughout Europe including Haibike, Winora and Ghost.
The 139-year-old British bikemaker was founded in Nottingham in 1887 and became well-known for its Chopper model, which featured extended handlebars and is now part of its “retro” range.
Raleigh was bought by the Netherlands-based Accell Group in 2012. (Image: PA)
Chief executive of Accell Group, Jonas Nilsson, said: “This is a deeply sad and frustrating situation given all the hard work and everything we have achieved, with the support of shareholders and lenders, to restructure Accell’s operations and finances.
“It is an especially difficult moment for our employees, creditors, customers, suppliers, and partners.”
Although Raleigh no longer manufactures bicycles in Nottingham, its head office is now based in Eastwood, Nottinghamshire.
Under Accell’s ownership, the brand shifted focus to electric bikes.
Raleigh owner Accell Group files for administration
Earlier this year, Accell restructured, secured additional funding, and reduced debt.
But the group said it had now “explored every possible avenue” for the business’s future, including discussions with potential buyers.
Having failed to secure a viable solution, the company has now begun insolvency proceedings in the Netherlands.
Mr Nilsson said: “Every realistic option for the future of the business has been tirelessly explored, and none have resulted in a solution to continue the Group in its current form.
“Our immediate focus is to support an orderly process, provide clarity wherever possible, and work with the relevant court-appointed administrators to preserve viable activities and employment where circumstances allow.”
Other major UK companies that have closed or entered administration/liquidation in 2026
It has been a tough year for the UK high street, with several other retailers entering administration or liquidation and others announcing widespread store closures.
Major high street brands LK Bennett, Claire’s, and Quiz have been forced to close all their remaining stores after falling into administration.
UK fashion retailer Leading Labels is also set to close its remaining 15 stores after falling into liquidation.
Whitbread recently confirmed it will be closing all its UK restaurants in September:
TG Jones and the British Heart Foundation will also both be closing around 150 stores across the UK.
Other retailers have been forced to close stores this year, including:
Several UK travel companies have also ceased trading or entered administration in 2026:
Meanwhile, four UK airlines have fallen into administration or liquidation:
UK delivery company Yodel is set to be phased out after being acquired by InPost.
It’s also been reported that Morrisons is looking to sell some of its in-store pharmacies as it continues to cut costs.
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It hasn’t all been bad news for the UK high street, with several major brands announcing new store openings for 2026, including Aldi, M&S, and Superdrug.
Meanwhile, brands including Evans and Bodycare have returned to the UK high street this year after previously closing all their stores.
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