The number of company insolvencies is set for a record high this year, an expert has warned. It comes as the latest quarterly insolvency statistics for January to March 2023 (Q1) reveal there were 5,747 company insolvencies in Wales and England - 18% higher than in the same period last year.
Nicola Banham, restructuring and insolvency director at accountancy group Azets, has said that, as long as inflation remains high and interest rates continue to rise, cash will become tight for many more businesses.
“Government financial support during the pandemic led to a significant reduction in corporate insolvencies. Last year, insolvencies reached the highest level since 2009. If this continues to increase at the same rate as seen in Q1 2023, corporate insolvencies will be even higher during 2023.
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“Businesses are continuing to operate in a challenging environment as inflation remains high and interest rates continue to rise. As a result, cash will become tight for many more businesses due to increased finance costs and increased costs of supplies.
She added: “Furthermore, the Energy Bill Relief Scheme ended in March, so businesses will face a further increase in energy costs and we expect to see far more casualties in certain sectors. Most at risk are those with significant energy consumption, including retail, hospitality, hotels, restaurants, and manufacturing.
“Directors must seek advice early if they are concerned about cash and ongoing trading, to preserve as much of the business as possible and avoid liquidation.”
There were 4,739 creditors’ voluntary liquidations (CVLs), close to the highest quarterly level since records began in 1960. There were also 652 compulsory liquidations, 318 administrations, and 38 company voluntary arrangements (CVAs).
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