A major supplier of earthmoving and waste recycling machinery has ceased trading, resulting in the immediate loss of almost 90 jobs at its depot near Birmingham.
End of an Era for Employee-Owned Firm
Warwick Ward (Machinery) Ltd, a company with roots dating back to 1970, officially entered administration on 3 December 2025. The firm, which transitioned to employee ownership just two years ago in 2023, was regarded as one of Europe's leading stockists for new and used equipment in its sector.
Its operations were based from a headquarters in Barnsley, with additional depots in Bromsgrove, near Birmingham, and Harlow. The appointment of administrators from Interpath Advisory led to an immediate halt of all business activities across these sites.
Administrators Confirm Widespread Redundancies
James Lumb and James Clark of Interpath were appointed as joint administrators. Their appointment triggered the closure of the company's operations.
A spokesperson confirmed that, as a direct consequence, the majority of the company's 89-strong workforce have been made redundant. This represents the loss of almost 90 positions within the specialist industrial sector.
Impact on the Local Business Landscape
The collapse of Warwick Ward marks a significant blow to the regional business community, particularly in the West Midlands where its Bromsgrove depot was located. The firm's long history, spanning over five decades, and its recent shift to an employee-owned model make its sudden failure particularly notable.
The administration process is now underway, with the appointed officials managing the affairs of the ceased company. The focus for the administrators will be on realising the value of any remaining assets for the benefit of the company's creditors.
The news, first reported by Insider Media, highlights the ongoing pressures within the construction and industrial supply chain, leading to job losses and business instability in the region.
