Food firm in liquidation after Powys rescue attempt fails

Powys County Times

29-04-2025

A 43-year-old food business has entered liquidation after attempts by a Powys businessman to save the company were unsuccessful.
Patchwork Foods in Ruthin was founded in 1982 by Margaret Carter in her kitchen, and went on to become famous for pates and other specialities.
An award-winning business for much of its four decades of trading, Margaret, son Rufus and business partner Jen Whitham helped it achieve a £2 million annual turnover.
The trio left the business as directors in May 2024, with Newtown businessman Scott Davies, of Davies Enterprise Holdings Limited, taking a controlling share.
Mr Davies, who also runs Hilltop Honey in Newtown, said the decision to close the company was made as he could no longer personally fund the company.
He added that the company showed "no future of getting to break even or generating a positive cash flow".
In a statement to North Wales Live, he said: "I took a controlling share of Patchwork Foods in May 2024 to try and turn the business around as it was close to insolvency.
"After 12 months of hard effort, tough decisions, great work by staff and a significant amount of investment the company still showed no future of getting to break even or generating a positive cash flow.
"I personally funded Patchwork every week throughout the 12 months in order to meet creditor payments.
"I could no longer continue doing so which led me to the decision to liquidate.
"It's a sad day for Ruthin, local area and the Welsh food and drink environment of which I'm a huge champion."
Clwyd East MP Becky Gittins said: "I am saddened and disappointed to hear about the closure of Patchwork Foods, which has been part of the business community for over 40 years, achieving national acclaim for its produce.
"If anyone from the workforce needs support, I would encourage them to contact my office on [e-mail].'