Ecomerchant, based near Faversham, represents the eco-building products end of the Burdens Group, with products including wood-fibre insulation and sheathing boards (Steico, Pavatex and Panelvent brands), timber doors and windows (Rationel) and wood wool boards.
Ecomerchant confirmed to TTJ that it had gone into administration, following the announcement that Duff & Phelps had been appointed as administrators of the remaining part of the Burdens Group – WTB Trading Ltd, accounting for 13 branches.
Earlier this month sources told TTJ that hauliers had refused to make Ecomerchant deliveries because of alleged payment difficulties. In October Wolseley bought 22 branches and use of the Burdens name.
Two of the remaining branches – Cinderford and Dorchester – were sold last week to independent merchanting group Bradfords, while another has also been bought.
“We will continue to trade the company as a going concern whilst we continue discussions with those parties interested in acquiring some, or all of the remaining branches,” said Philip Duffy, joint administrator at Duff & Phelps.
Many Burdens group employees have blamed senior management for the position the company has found itself in.
Burdens focused on the civil engineering end of construction products and had a turnvover exceeding £250m prior to Wolseley’s purchase of part of the group.
