The firm, which boasted a portfolio that included the 2014 Ryder Cup, Chelsea FC and Aintree Racecourse among clients, made the decision because of 'trading difficulties' and after a potential business-saving investor pulled out of negotiations recently.
A statement on the company’s website reads: “It is with regret that the Board of Directors of Express Cafes Ltd announce that a decision has been made to enter the Company into Voluntary Liquidation.
“The company has been experiencing tough trading difficulties due to the withdrawal of a funding stream.”
In 2011, the company reported that it had hired more than 180 people and claimed that it was the UK’s largest outdoor caterer and Europe’s largest concessions operator.
Last year Express Cafés Ltd partnered with Phil Platt of AB Worldfoods and popular Caribbean food and drinks brand, Levi Roots, to launch the ‘Jammin’ Jerk Burger’ trailers which toured the UK at a number of high profile music and sporting events, including Reading Festival and the UK Formula 1 Grand Prix.
The company secured a £5m contract with Twickenham Stadium to provide catering for the rugby matches and concerts held at the stadium and was also due to cater for the programme of Rugby Union autumn Internationals at the stadium next month.
Managing Director, Alan Wiggett, and his team are reported to have insisted they have 'devoted a substantial amount of time and effort' to find a solution to save the company and jobs.
The statement concludes: “The Board would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the staff at Express House, Shrewsbury for their commitment and professionalism over the many years and wish them all the best for the future.”
The company was purchased from Compass Group in April 2011 and then wholly privately owned by Central Catering Services Ltd. The business offered concession catering services ranging from small events requiring two or three units to large-scale music festivals and sporting events.