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Construction industry rallies as Charles Henshaw staff begin hunt for new jobs

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Senior staff at Charles Henshaw & Sons Limited have begun hunting for new jobs after the historic façade specialist entered administration last week.  

Managing director of Charles Henshaw & Sons Limited, Graham Chung.

Charles Henshaw, in Edinburgh, was founded in 1904 as a decorative architectural metal working business, before launching its aluminium glazing systems division in 1982, offering curtain walling and windows to the construction industry.  

Today, the company is one of Scotland’s leading facade specialists, providing design, fabrication, supply and installation of building façades across various sectors including commercial, residential, and public buildings. 

The 120-year-old business, which employs 72 people, recently fell into troubled waters financially due to soaring costs from legacy contracts and significant main contractor delays on start dates for new projects, leading to reduced margins and trading losses.   

Scottish chartered accountant Henderson Loggie, the administrator, is actively seeking an interested buyer for the business and its assets, while supporting staff affected by potential redundancies. 

In the wake of the administration, however, staff have begun advertising they are open to new positions elsewhere, including managing director Graham Chung.  

“Hi everyone – I am looking for a new role and would appreciate your support. Thank you in advance for any connections, advice, or opportunities you can offer,” wrote Chung. 

Industry colleagues rallied around job-seeking staff online, posting messages of sympathy and support.  

“Really hope you get an opportunity elsewhere,” wrote one person. 

“My best wishes to you and all the team in finding new roles,” wrote another. 

“Good luck in your search, sure you will be bouncing back shortly,” wrote someone else. 

“Such a shame to hear the news about Henshaw but I am sure you and the rest of your fantastic team will be snapped up soon,” posted another. 

“Wishing you every success in your search,” wrote another person. 

“I’m sure you won’t be long finding a new role,” posted another. 

Managing director Graham Chung.

Following the administration Chung said: “Henshaw cladding solutions have set industry standards, and we have worked hard for our position as a trusted partner in the façade sector of the construction industry.  

“I am proud of our distinguished reputation built over many decades, and it is with deep regret that, after exploring every avenue to keep afloat, we are unable to continue. 

 “We have a long-serving, loyal and extremely well trained and talented team of estimators, designers, fabricators, site management and business support staff.  

“We have left our mark with craftsmanship and projects that have shaped the UK skylines with precision and elegance. 

“We would like to thank our employees, supply chain, consultants, and subcontractors and for their loyal support over the decades.” 

Landmark projects by Charles Henshaw range from cultural buildings including the Usher Hall in Edinburgh, to commercial and public buildings such as Harvey Nichols, Waverley and Glasgow Queen Street stations and latterly the new University of Glasgow buildings.   

Shona Campbell, business recovery and insolvency partner at Henderson Loggie, said: “My primary focus will be to ensure the wellbeing of the staff affected by the potential redundancies, providing them with the necessary support and guidance during this challenging time. 

 “We are actively seeking interested buyers for the business and assets, which offers a unique opportunity to acquire a company with a solid reputation and extensive portfolio.  

“Despite its strengths, the business has faced significant financial pressures due to escalating costs, problematic legacy contracts, and delays in initiating new projects.  

“Our goal is to navigate these challenges effectively, preserving as much value as possible for all stakeholders involved.” 

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