Thu Sep 12 05:06:00 UTC 2024: ## Historic Walsall Factory Closes After 120 Years, Job Losses Confirmed
Walsall-based The Electrolytic Plating Company, a long-standing manufacturer of high-quality surface coatings and metal finishing for the construction and motor industries, has closed its doors after over 120 years in operation. The closure, which resulted in an undisclosed number of job losses, is attributed to financial challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
While two divisions of the company were successfully acquired by Wolverhampton Electro Plating Limited, securing the continued employment of some workers, the remaining part of the business has ceased trading.
BDO, the administrator handling the closure, confirmed that some redundancies were made and are supporting affected employees with their statutory claims. They are also working to maximize the remaining assets for the benefit of creditors.
The company, which employed between 50 and 200 staff, has a long history in Walsall, employing generations of residents from the Palfrey area. Local councillor Aftab Nawaz expressed concern over the impact of the redundancies on families and the community, especially during the current cost of living crisis.
Founded in 1896, The Electrolytic Plating Company, originally called The Electrolytic Apparatus Co, began by designing, manufacturing, and installing barrel plating systems for various industries. They transitioned to specialize in metal finishing and barrel plating in 1935. In 1998, the company unveiled a new state-of-the-art finishing plant, demonstrating its commitment to innovation and quality.
Despite these efforts, the company’s long journey has come to an end, leaving behind a legacy of skilled craftsmanship and a reminder of the economic challenges facing businesses today.
First Piper 