Gin company closes with no sale after owner's death

The business was put up for sale after the death of founder Neil Harrison

An award-winning gin company that was put up for sale after entering into administration when its owner died has failed to secure a buyer.

Nelson's Distillery & School Ltd, which was established in 2016 by former chef Neil Harrison, operated from premises in Uttoxeter, Staffordshire. He died in March, aged 56.

The business sale included a fully equipped distillery and a 14-station gin school.

Despite receiving more than 30 expressions of interest after the company entered administration in July, a going concern sale of the business and assets was not achieved, administrator Martin Williamson said.

He added the offers that had been received were below the level required to take the sale forward.

As a result of not achieving a sale, the company ceased on 31 July 2025, he said.

A sale of Nelson's Distillery & School Ltd's trademarks, recipes and digital presence had since been agreed separately, meaning the company's name will continue, Mr Williamson said.

Speaking in July, Mr Williamson said it was "a well-loved, award-winning British spirits brand" and added that its "unique gin recipes", alongside its customer base and tourism accolades, made it a strong proposition.

Its physical assets were being sold through an online auction, with bidding due to close on Monday.

Assets available included the complete distillery set-up, gin school equipment, and bottled gin stock.

The auction is being managed by Hammond Chartered Surveyors.

The business suffered "operational disruption" in March after the death of Mr Harrison, Mr Williamson previously told the BBC.

He said he was appointed on 9 July after a formal review of the business in May.

Nelson's Gin, Vodka & Rum School was awarded Visit Staffordshire's Experience of the Year 2024 and Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice status for seven consecutive years.

The company rose to prominence with its flagship London Dry No 7 Gin and Signature Blend Rum.

It also produced private-label spirits for high-profile chefs and restaurants, including collaborations with Michel Roux and his Michelin-starred restaurant, La Gavroche, in London that closed in 2024.