Universal Aerial Platforms hits administration

Access equipment hirer Universal Aerial Platforms has gone into administration.

The firm has more than 1,500 machines across depots in London, Birmingham and Basildon, plus two Spanish outlets . It also has a telecoms division based in Slough.

Joint administrator Myles Halley, from KPMG Restructuring, said: "Universal Aerial Platforms' difficulties follow the acquisition of a telecoms business. Turnover did not reach anticipated levels, leading to losses and cashflow problems."

The company employs around 150 staff, but the administrators said they are not currently planning any redundancies. "We intend to trade the business for a period of time, while options to restructure are explored," said Halley.

However, KPMG said any approach from a potential buyer would be considered. The Spanish subsidiary is not in administration.

[Contract Journal, 26 July 2006, p. 17]