Cookology acquires IceKing brand from D.A.D after administration

Essex-based kitchen appliance brand Cookology has announced the acquisition of the IceKing refrigeration line from Domestic Appliance Distributors Limited (D.A.D), which fell into administration earlier this year.

The acquisition simultaneously preserves the well-known 30-year-old refrigeration brand, while also strengthening Cookology’s offering in the independent retail channel. The deal includes all of IceKing’s current stock in the UK, as well as products ready to be dispatched from the factory.

Following the acquisition, Cookology has already placed new orders with the manufacturing partners that have longstanding relationships with both firms, which the buyer says will ensure “consistency and continuity in product quality”. The integration of IceKing’s stock and operations into Cookology’s offering is also reported to be underway.

The deal ensures that IceKing will continue to operate under its existing name, with the operational infrastructure and resources offered by Cookology enabling the brand to benefit from renewed investment. Duncan Williams, who has worked with the IceKing brand for more than 13 years, joins Cookology as Head of Trade Sales, bringing extensive experience and a deep knowledge of the brand and its customer base.

Calling IceKing a “trusted and recognised name in the UK appliance market”, Cookology Managing Director Andrew Wright (pictured above, right, with Duncan Williams on left) said that the company’s “priority is to reassure trade partners that it’s business as usual, and that we’re committed to breathing new life and growth into the Iceking brand.”

He continued: “We’ve built strong relationships with the factories that have supported Iceking for many years, and we’ll continue to invest in the brand to strengthen its position in the independent retail channel.”

Duncan Williams said that the deal represented “a fantastic opportunity to revitalise Iceking while maintaining the values and relationships that have made the brand so respected.”

He added: “Cookology’s support and investment will allow us to build on Iceking’s strong foundation, ensuring our partners continue to receive the quality, reliability, and service they’ve come to expect.”

IceKing’s former owner John Gillman & Sons (Electrical) Ltd, which traded as Domestic Appliance Distributors (D.A.D), fell into administration in August 2025 following a period of significant financial difficulty.

Despite revenues of around £48 million, the long-established distributor of domestic electrical products had experienced sustained losses, leading to a funding requirement that it was unable to meet and ultimately forcing it into administration.

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