An award-winning UK wine and spirits merchant is set to close after 59 years, having fallen into administration.
Friarwood Wine and Spirits, founded in 1967, is a family-run business that has built a reputation for its close relationship with some of the world’s most prestigious vineyards and wineries in regions such as Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, Loire, Rhône, and Tuscany.
The independent merchant supplied Michelin-starred restaurants, caterers, top hotels, and private members' clubs across the UK.
Friarwood's array of fine wines and spirits is also available on the company's website or in its London-based store (Parsons Green, Fulham).
Friarwood Wine and Spirits to close after falling into administration
After 59 years, Friarwood Wine and Spirits is now set to close after falling into administration.
William Antony Batty and Hugh Francis Jesseman were appointed as joint administrators on July 3, according to The Gazette.
A statement on Frairwood’s website said: "It is with great sadness that we share the news that we will soon be closing our business.
"We would like to sincerely thank you for your loyalty and support over the years.
"It has been a privilege to share exceptional wines and build lasting friendships with so many loyal customers.
"As we begin this final chapter, we invite you to explore our Closing Down Sale."
The closing-down sale is on now, with discounts of up to 60% on Friarwood products.
Other UK companies that have closed or entered administration/liquidation in 2026
It has been a tough year for the UK high street, with several other retailers entering administration or liquidation and others announcing widespread store closures.
Major high street brands LK Bennett, Claire's, and Quiz have been forced to close all their remaining stores after falling into administration.
UK fashion retailer Leading Labels is also set to close its remaining 15 stores after falling into liquidation.
TG Jones will be closing 150 stores across the UK as part of a "restructuring" plan approved by the High Court on Wednesday (July 1).
Other retailers have been forced to close stores this year, including:
Several UK travel companies have also ceased trading or entered administration in 2026:
- Regen Central Ltd
- Gold Crest Holidays
- Asiara UK Ltd
- Simply Florida Travel Ltd
- Trav Expert Ltd
- Strachan Travel Ltd
- Travel Bespoke Ltd
- Groupia Ltd
- Global Vision International
Luxury UK holiday company Salamander Voyages shut down back in April after entering administration.
Meanwhile, four UK airlines have fallen into administration or liquidation:
- Ascend Airways (liquidation)
- EcoJet Airlines (liquidation)
- Zenith Aviation Limited (administration)
- European Cargo (administration)
UK delivery company Yodel is set to be phased out over the coming months after being acquired by InPost.
It's also been reported that Morrisons is looking to sell some of its in-store pharmacies as it continues to cut costs.
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It hasn't all been bad news for the UK high street, with several major brands announcing new store openings for 2026, including Aldi, M&S, and Superdrug.
Plus-size clothing brand Evans also returned to the UK high street recently after closing all its stores and concessions in December 2020.
Bodycare is also set to return to the UK high street in 2026 after closing all its stores last year, having fallen into administration.
Which company/store closure in 2026 has impacted you the most? Let us know in the comments below.
