Sixty-four jobs lost as popcorn manufacturer calls in administrators

A Nottinghamshire popcorn manufacturer has cut 64 jobs after calling in administrators.

Mazars has been appointed to look after the day-to-day running of Thomas Tucker Limited and R J Foods, which has become one of the UK’s largest independent popcorn manufacturers and a leading company in the own-label FMCG sector.

Administrators say that 52 staff have kept their jobs at the firm.

The business operates under the brands Tommy Tucker, Thomas Tucker, Family Bakery and Krax.

The company is a key supplier to the British cinema industry, creating products for a string of high-profile names across the retail, leisure and hospitality sectors, and licensed partners.

In 2015 RJ Foods family bakery was acquired to offer a portfolio of baked goods.

The company is continuing to trade while joint administrators are looking to sell the business on as a going concern.

Adam Harris, joint administrator, Mazars, said: “The business has had a difficult year and had undergone an operational restructure and further investment by its owners.

“Whilst the underlying cause was disputed, the business agreed a voluntary product recall following an ongoing investigation with the Food Standards Agency. The recall has resulted in significant losses, pressure on working capital and, following a review, there were insufficient further funds available to bridge the shortfall identified.

“Sadly the administrators have, as a result of the financial position, made a number of the staff redundant. Nevertheless, we are hopeful a sale will be achieved in light of the business’s reputation for quality and its dedicated workforce. A going concern sale would secure the best outcome for the business’s suppliers and customers and secure a future for the remaining employees.”