Carlton Bakeries Chain in Liquidation

A British chain of bakery stores founded in 1942 has gone into liquidation due to coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions, with the loss of 60 jobs.

Staff at the Carlton Bakeries chain, which has 10 branches across Fife, were informed of the news by letter, according to thetimes.co.uk. 

The company, registered under the name William McMillan Ltd, had suffered recent financial losses and had been working through a restructuring plan. After the implementation of coronavirus restrictions, the business was forced to close permanently.

Graeme Simpson, its managing director, said: “William McMillan is a long-standing Fife-based family business with a proud tradition and long history. We have been fortunate to have a very loyal hard-working staff, many of whom have been with the business for a good number of years. We are all deeply disappointed that the business has been adversely affected by the coronavirus restrictions which has made the financial position unsustainable. Steps are being taken to place the company in liquidation and this is expected to be finalized in the coming days.”

He said they would work closely with the liquidators when they are appointed in due course to ensure every possible assistance was provided to the staff during this difficult time.