07/10/2025
This is the most difficult announcement I’ve ever had to make. It is with great sadness I confirm that Heavers of Bridport Limited will be entering into voluntary liquidation.
I know this news brings questions, upset and worry to many people. I am truly sorry that it has come to this.
From tomorrow, all pending customer contracts will be paused. I will be contacting customers personally to discuss their individual situation. Contracts are covered by our Independent Network Insurance scheme and further details will be provided. Please could I ask that customers wait to be contacted by me; I will get to everyone, but it will take time.
All completed installations within their warranty period will continue to be protected by the Independent Network, details of which were included in customers’ post completion paperwork.
The reality of this situation came to a head very recently. My employees and their families have been at the forefront of my mind; I am painfully aware that their ability to pay their mortgages/rent and support their families has depended on the decisions I’ve had to make in a very short space of time. I would like to say to all employees how much I value your loyalty and your hard work. You have stood by Heavers through good times and bad, and I will always be grateful. Many of you have worked for Heavers for several decades, growing up with the firm, as I have.
This business has been in my family for three generations, operating over the last 65 years. My late grandad started Heavers in 1960, originally as a building company before moving into glazing. My dad was the MD for many years before retiring in 2016. The firm has never just been a job - it has been part of who we are and part of who I am. I am proud of our long-standing reputation within our small community for quality and a personable service. My own home has Heavers windows throughout which were installed almost 40 years ago and are still going strong, and that alone says so much about the quality we offered over the decades.
We have been very near to this point before over the years, during recessions, and most recently, the pandemic, but each time we found a way through. I genuinely believed I could turn things around this time too. To say this outcome is painful doesn’t come close.
The business has faced many mounting pressures including supply issues, significant rises of utilities, business rates and insurances, and delays in receiving settlement for completed contracts. With the country facing further uncertainty, not surprisingly we have also seen a reduction in sales in recent months. I have explored every possible option available for the firm and the constant strain has taken a personal toll.
My focus now is to do everything I can to try to soften the impact for everyone affected and go through the insolvency process in the best way possible.
I would like to say thank you to my parents, my wife Amy, and extended family for their support throughout this difficult time.
Thank you to everyone in our community who has supported us over the many years - for your loyalty, trust, patience, and kindness.
Ross Heaver
Heavers of Bridport Limited
1960-2025
