Installers owed in “excess of £1 million” by Bathstore

Bathstore has pulled the plug on all installations following its collapse into administration, leaving fitters chasing an initial estimate of £1 million for unpaid work. This number is expected to rise as more details emerge.

The British Institute of KBB Installation (BiKBBI) said it has received 100 updates from its members, which it says represents around a quarter of those affected. Those 100 are collectively owed in excess of £1 million for completed installation work.

“We expect this number to rise dramatically over the coming days as our members continue to update us with their stake,” the BiKBBI said.

The highest individual creditor is owed over £90,000 with the majority owed between £2,500-£10,000.

In an official letter from administrators BDO yesterday (June 26), contractors were told: “Unfortunately, as the company is now in administration, it is no longer possible for the company to continue to provide installation services to customers. This means that unfortunately your services with the company are terminated with immediate effect.

“Should you be owed monies by the company in respect of installation work you have completed prior to administration, this will be considered as an unsecured claim against the company.”

There are an estimated 200-300 live fits in progress.

As late as Tuesday, Bathstore were reassuring fitters that business was as usual via their links with the BiKBBI.

BiKBBI CEO Damian Walters said: “Once again it’s the little guy that’s hit the most. Honest, hard-working people who are the backbone of our economy are once again the victim of a scenario which is clearly way beyond their control. I give my personal assurances to each and every one of them and their families that we’ll do everything in our power to ensure their voice is heard.

“We have requested meetings with the appointed administrators at BDO and will be meeting Ministers to discuss the available support to our members and their customers. I have spoken to our own Patron Stephen Metcalfe MP, and we are working on a strategy to seek government support on this matter – This will go right to the top, and I will not rest until notice is taken and action is had.”

The Rainy Day Trust, which is a charity set up specifically for those in the home improvements sector who have fallen on hard times, has said that the charity is there to help those affected. It said: “If you or someone you know is affected by this, get them to call 0203 192 0486 and ask for an application pack.”

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