Historic Birmingham print firm repays creditors

One of Birmingham’s oldest printing firms which ceased trading after 157 years in business has been able to pay its creditors in full.

Bookbinding and print finishing firm Henry Mills, which operated from premises on Chester Street, in Aston, was forced to close its doors last November after directors faced falling sales and an increase in competition from the internet.

Coventry and Birmingham-based business recovery and insolvency experts Poppleton & Appleby, were appointed joint administrators and following the successful sale of the premises and machinery, Henry Mills was able to pay its creditors in full.

Matt Hardy, of Poppleton & Appleby, worked in conjunction with directors at the firm throughout the winding down process.

He said: “Henry Mills had been operating since 1855, but after suffering a significant drop in turnover and following a period of decline, the business made the decision to cease trading.

“It is thanks to the quick recovery of the outstanding sales ledger and a successful sale of the premises and machinery that Henry Mills Limited has been able to pay its creditors, plus statutory interest with an expected return to shareholders.

“We can’t stress enough in our industry that there is always the strong possibility of a good result and a better outcome for all concerned if you seek early advice.

“In this case, the directors came to us as soon as they realised there may be an issue and we are delighted with the outcome which we have been able to turn round in less than twelve months.”

The company was founded by Henry Mills in 1855 with William Lawrence, a works manager at the firm, later taking over as managing director in 1914. The firm had been in the hands of the Lawrence family since, with third and fourth generations most recently involved in its operation.