CW Sellors Files for Administration as Financial Pressures Mount

Historic Jeweller in Financial Crisis

CW Sellors, which is based in Ashbourne, has posted a notice of intention to appoint administrators via law firm Browne Jacobson. The notice to appoint administrators was filed on January 12, 2026. This development marks a critical moment for the family-run jewellery business, which has been serving customers across the UK for over four decades.

The move represents a significant turning point for a company that has been a fixture on British high streets. The move is designed to protect the company against creditor action for a period of around ten days while it seeks a way forward. Despite the financial troubles, the jeweller remains operational despite the financial struggles.

Declining Revenue and Rising Losses

In its latest accounts, made up to the end of April 2024, the firm posted a turnover of £28.5m, down from £30.4m a year earlier, and a loss of more than £2.1m. At the time, CW Sellors employed around 190 people. The financial downturn represents a dramatic reversal for the company, which had previously maintained profitability for over a decade.

CW Sellors was established in 1979 and is a second-generation, family-run business. It has outlets in Ashbourne, Bakewell, Matlock, Shrewsbury and Whitby. The company has built a reputation for quality jewellery and watches, but has struggled to navigate recent economic headwinds.

Founder’s Death and Failed Flagship Project

The business initially found it difficult to adapt to that loss following the death of founder Chris Sellors in September 2023. The tragedy coincided with mounting challenges from a flagship development project. Waters View, which was intended to be CW Sellors’ new flagship headquarters, was placed on the market last autumn through agent Savills after construction costs rose sharply. The company said it was left with little alternative but to sell, as the final costs no longer made financial sense. The 17.5-acre development overlooking Carsington Water was affected by significant cost increases during and after the Covid-19 period, ultimately resulting in the overall build cost doubling.

Broader Retail Challenges

This situation reflects the ongoing struggles faced by British retailers adapting to rising operational costs and shifting consumer behaviors. The jewellery sector has been particularly vulnerable to economic pressures, with many high street businesses facing difficult trading conditions in recent years.

The outcome for CW Sellors remains uncertain as administrators work to determine the best path forward. For the company’s 190 employees and loyal customer base across its five retail locations, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether this historic British jeweller can survive its financial crisis.