A Yorkshire-based stone and tile specialist company is offering to assist customers who have been affected by the recent administration of Fired Earth.

Luxury tile and home interiors chain Fired Earth appointed administrators at the end of October, with all of the company’s 20 showrooms closed and 133 workers being made redundant.

Administrators said the business had been loss-making “for some time” and despite having “substantial” working capital loans over the past three years had been unable to return to profitability.

Jason Cherrington, managing director at quality stone and tile specialist Lapicida, who have showrooms in Knaresborough and London, said: “It’s incredibly sad to see yet another Great British brand fall into administration.

The Lapicida boss has shared his view on the Fired Earth administration

placeholder image — The Lapicida boss has shared his view on the Fired Earth administration

"They were our first ever trade customer back in the early 90s, when they had just three shops, run by founder, the late Nicholas Kneale.

“Nicholas was inspired to build the brand following a holiday in America where he spotted an opportunity to retail handmade terracotta and glazed wall tiles, capitalising on the ‘country look’ so popular at the time. He built a fantastic brand where people were prepared to pay a premium for the look and the service."

Mr Cherrington said the business had since changed ownership and added: “My feeling is their downfall is due to too many showroom overheads and squeezed margins.”

He said his company can potentially support affected Fired Earth customers.

“Property renovation projects are known to be rewarding but often stressful while in progress, so we would urge any Fired Earth customers who are concerned that their orders have not been fulfilled or for those who need a quick turnaround to please get in touch to see what options are out there.

"We know their products well and are happy to provide our expert advice on any project and, as we hold large quantities of stock, we can work with customers to ensure build schedules don’t slip.”