World’s largest manufacturer of horse brushes faces administration

The world’s largest manufacturer of horse grooming brushes, established in 1786, is staring administration in the face.

Vale Brothers, which is based in Walsall and has been in business for almost 240 years, has posted a second notice of intention (NOI) to appoint administrators.

The move comes after the company posted an initial (NOI) on September 26.

The company has grown substantially over the last 20 years, with a succession of acquisitions meaning the company has added leisure bags, whips, saddles, bridles and horse rugs to its range through sister companies such as Jeffries Saddlery and Thermatex.

Vale Brother’s latest available accounts, made up to the end of 2021, show the company employed an average of 96 people across the year. At the time, the company had assets of almost £3.6m, while creditors totalled just over £2m.