Fired Earth collapses as luxury tile retailer closes all stores and sheds over one hundred jobs

Upmarket tile company Fired Earth has shuttered all its UK high street stores and entered administration, resulting in the loss of 133 jobs. Launched over four decades ago and known for its terracotta floor tiles and sourcing from specialist makers, the retailer catered to affluent customers seeking distinct kitchen and bathroom finishes. Its London showrooms and other prime locations are now closed following the appointment of administrators from Leonard Curtis.

Fired Earth, previously owned by Aga and more recently by construction entrepreneur Simon Lousada, has faced prolonged trading pressures. While its marble mosaic and patterned porcelain tiles gained acclaim for their “authentic, heritage feel”, the business struggled to maintain profitability amid strong competition and economic headwinds. Its bathroom tiles often sold for nearly double those of mainstream rivals, underscoring its position at the premium end of the market.

The retailer suffered a £1.7 million loss in its last full financial year, citing soaring input costs and persistent wage inflation. Mr Lousada injected substantial funds in recent years to keep the business solvent, but no viable turnaround was found. As losses continued to mount, fresh investment was no longer an option.

While Fired Earth’s head office and warehouse in Banbury will remain open temporarily to fulfil outstanding customer orders, staff will not be retained under any future asset sale. Administrators are actively seeking buyers for the brand’s assets, minus its workforce.

This latest insolvency represents another blow to the British retail sector, which has been battered by weakened consumer confidence and escalating costs. The collapse of Fired Earth follows similar fates for prominent brands like Seraphine and Quiz Clothing. Industry analysts at Begbies Traynor warn that critical financial distress among businesses has soared by 78 percent over the past year, predicting more restructurings and insolvencies well into 2026.