Everton Stadium contractor files Notice of Intention to appoint an administrator

A commercial glazing contractor working on Everton’s Bramley-Moore Dock stadium has filed a Notice of Intention (NOI) to appoint an administrator.

Founded in 1975, Alucraft Systems is part of the Clarison Group.

Alucraft Systems secured its most high-profile project in 2023 when it was appointed to deliver the curtain walling, aluminium rain-screen and composite cladding for the new Everton Football Stadium.

The Tamworth-based firm has told TheBusinessDesk.com that it has been unable to trade profitably over the last few years despite “considerable investment”. It’s experienced an “extremely challenging trading environment in the UK” and has therefore given an NOI, but is exploring all options for the business.

According to its last full accounts made up to 31 December 2022, Alucraft Systems reported a “disappointing” year with a turnover of £18.7m (2021: £14.9m) and a pre-tax loss of £5.8m (2021: £2.4m pre-tax loss).

The firm’s directors noted they were confident of a return to profitability in 2023, but warned risks facing the business included the rate of inflation in the construction industry and the general economic outlook.

During 2022 the business employed an average of 82 workers.

A spokesman for the firm said: “The Board of Alucraft Systems Limited (ASL) has filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators, although the Board is continuing to explore all strategic options for the business.

“Sadly, the company has experienced an extremely challenging trading environment in the UK over the last few years and despite considerable investment has not been able trade profitably.

“ASL is one of four businesses that form The Clarison Group. The other three businesses – Alucraft Limited (Ireland), Williaam Cox Limited (Ireland) and EAG Limited (UK) – are all trading profitably and are unaffected by this decision.

“While disappointing, the decision will ensure the rest of the group has the resources to continue to grow.

“Experienced CEO Stephen Martin has recently been appointed as executive chairman to the UK business to help lead this growth strategy with the management team.”