The rising cost of goods has been cited among factors which led to the closure of a Bicester windows business, resulting in the loss of 25 jobs.

ARA Windows and Doors Ltd was founded in 2021 and operated across two sites in the town at Bucknell Road and Telford Road. In addition to direct employees, the business worked with up to 12 sub-contractors.

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Begbies Traynor has been appointed liquidators of the company, which ceased trading on October 31 with debts in excess of £900,000.

The liquidation is being handled by Andrew Hook, of the nationwide business rescue and recovery specialist’s Oxford office.

Reasons for the closure of ARA Windows and Doors Ltd include the ongoing rise in the cost of goods and the length of time taken to close sales, in addition to a fall in profits linked to discounts offered on contract lengths.

Commenting on the case, Mr Hook said: “Despite extensive experience in the glazing trade, the founders of ARA have faced an extremely challenging economic situation with inflationary pressures on materials proving too much to bear.

“The circumstances left the owners with no alternative but to close.”

Andrew Hook advised businesses that were struggling to seek advice at an early stage, in order to maximise the chances of avoiding liquidation.

Businesses can find advice on the Oxford City Council website: https://www.oxford.gov.uk/info/20022/support_for_business/957/business_advice

 

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This story was written by Matthew Norman, he joined the team in 2022 as a Facebook community reporter.

Matthew covers Bicester and focuses on finding stories from diverse communities.

Get in touch with him by emailing: Matthew.norman@newsquest.co.uk

Follow him on Twitter: @OxMailMattN1