UPDATED: 140-year-old Jewellery Quarter business edges towards administration

British manufacturer WH Darby has filed a notice of intention (NOI) to appoint administrators.

Having served the jewellery industry for over 140 since its inception in 1886, the Birmingham Jewellery Quarter-based business has alerted administrators to either go ahead and appoint administrators or look at selling. The claim was filed with Trowers & Hamlins, a London-based law firm.

According to Birmingham Live, WH Darby employed 41 people in 2023, as gleaned from its most recent accounts.

On its website, WH Darby explains that it manufactures handmade insignia, specialising in products such as jewels, medals, chains of office, lapel badges, cufflinks and much more.

Alongside its manufacturing, it also offers services for repairs, refurbishments and valuations.

WH Darby is just one of the many long-standing Birmingham Jewellery Quarter manufacturers, suppliers and other businesses that are facing much pressure.

Last year, Birmingham was awarded World Craft City status for its contributions to the jewellery trade and the Jewellery Quarter, joining just eight cities in all of Europe awarded the title by the World Crafts Council.

Although it has had a tough time in recent news, as reported on by Professional Jeweller, with Birmingham City Council quietly placing historic workshops on Birmingham Jewellery Quarter’s Vyse Street up for sale.

A spokesperson from WH Darby responded to a request for comment, saying: “The directors of WH Darby Limited, a long-established UK bespoke manufacturer specialising in handcrafted regalia, automotive badges, civic insignia and more, have filed Notices of Intention to appoint administrators.

“The filing of a Notice of Intention provides the company with a short statutory period in which to explore options to secure the future of the business. During this time, the directors, together with their professional advisers, are assessing all available options.

“No administrators have been appointed at this stage, and the business continue to trade as normal while this process is ongoing.

“For further enquiries please call Katie Smith on Tel: 0207 186 1144 or email ksmith@moorfieldscr.com.”