Mica UK Ltd, a Stafford-based hardware buying and marketing group has gone into administration after a problematic expansion strategy, followed by the economic downturn.
The newly launched product Mica Vault, meant an increase of new members, and output levels, however the sales were not enough to cover costs.
The group has suffered from increasing losses and poor cashflow, in the recession.
Mica is a voluntary trading group, which allows its members, independent hardware shops, to compete with larger rivals such as B&Q. The group is owned by the independent hardware store operators, according to the company's website. The group has over 160 member stores in the UK. The retailers also purchase their stocks through Mica.
Leonard Curtis has been appointed as administrators to the group, and has taken over the warehouse and stock.
The business is to continue to trade under the name of Mica DIY.
A long-term supplier to the hardware business Stax Trade Centres is to take over the Vault as Mica's wholesaler.
