Administrators appointed to The Original Factory Shop

Rick Harrison and James Clark from Interpath were appointed joint administrators to The Factory Shop Limited, trading as The Original Factory Shop, on 28 January 2026.

Founded in 1969, The Original Factory Shop is a discount retailer selling a wide range of branded and own-sourced products, including clothing, homewares, beauty items, toys, and seasonal goods. The Company operates 137 stores across the UK, employing circa 1,180 staff.

In common with other high street retailers, the Company had experienced challenging trading conditions, driven by high cost inflation, fragile consumer confidence and Government policies which have led to significant increases in employment costs. This was exacerbated by issues with the Company’s third-party warehouse and logistics operator, which significantly impacted sales.

Following their appointment, the joint administrators will continue to trade all 137 stores as a going concern while they assess options for the business. The Company’s online store, however, will close. More information for customers can be found below.

Rick Harrison, managing director at Interpath and joint administrator, said: “The Original Factory Shop has long-been a cornerstone of local high streets up and down the country. Unfortunately, however, trading challenges have impacted the business such that the Company had to be placed into administration.

“Over the coming weeks, we will be working closely with TOFS dedicated team of employees as we endeavour to operate all stores as a going concern while we assess options for the business.”

Information for Customers

• All retail stores will remain open and operational while the joint administrators assess options for the business.
• All goods purchased prior to 28 January 2026 can be exchanged for goods to the same value or less when accompanied by proof of purchase in line with the stores’ returns policy.
• All goods purchased on or after 28 January 2026 will be ‘sold as seen’ and returns can only be accepted on the grounds that the goods are faulty.
• All refunds require the authorisation of the Store Manager.
• The Company’s online store will close with immediate effect.
• Orders placed online before 28 January 2026 will be delivered as usual.
• This does not affect the customer’s statutory rights.