UK funeral automobile firm falls into administration – household enterprise since 1948 | UK | News | EUROtoday

A protracted-established British funeral automobile maker with roots stretching again to the post-war period has collapsed into administration, marking a major blow to a family-run enterprise that has operated for practically eight a long time. Eagle Specialist Vehicles Limited, which trades as Wilcox Limousines, formally appointed directors on March 13, 2026, in keeping with a discover filed on the High Court of Justice and printed in The London Gazette.

The firm, primarily based in Hindley Green close to Wigan, has been a specialist ceremonial coachbuilder supplying bespoke funeral autos throughout the UK. The Wilcox title has been related to the trade since 1948, when the household enterprise was first established.

Joint directors Alexander Kinninmonth and James Prior of FRP Advisory Trading Limited have been appointed to supervise the method. The agency’s registered workplace is being moved to Southampton as a part of the administration.

Wilcox Limousines constructed a popularity for producing high-end hearses and limousines, usually tailor-made to funeral administrators’ specs. The firm emphasised its heritage and household values, describing its work as rooted in craftsmanship, care and a long-standing dedication to high quality.

In firm supplies, the Wilcox household highlighted their “deep connection with our past” and stated their origins in 1948 continued to form their ambitions for innovation and excellence in ceremonial automobile design.

No fast particulars have been launched on the reason for the insolvency or the variety of jobs affected.

The collapse displays mounting pressures dealing with specialist producers within the UK, significantly smaller, family-run companies navigating rising prices and financial uncertainty.

The directors could be contacted through FRP Advisory’s Southampton workplace, the place they may assess the corporate’s monetary place and discover choices for the enterprise, together with a possible sale or restructuring.

Wilcox Limousines has been contacted for remark.