This is not exactly an uncommon story at the moment. The recession has led to troubled times for many companies. Although people are more likely to look at improving their homes rather than trying to sell them – thanks to the falling house prices we have been seeing – this doesn't mean the bathroom industry is booming.

Conflicting Reports

There have been a number of conflicting and uncertain stories about the future of Qualceram Shires however. Reuters has made alterations to its own stories after first reporting that the company had called in receivers. It since changed the story simply to reflect on the fact that they had called in help, but were not yet in receivership.

Company Structure

It is still a worrying turn of events for the company though. It owns four separate bathroom related companies in all, so if the parent company did eventually go under we would all lose these four as a result.

Current Situation

Taking a look at the website at the moment, you would not suspect that anything might be amiss. The site is well designed and beautifully presented, giving an insight into a business that knows how to provide classic and nicely styled bathrooms for its customers.

We can only hope that the current tough times can be overcome, and we can continue to look forward to the possibility of buying items from the ranges they supply. The company itself is based in Ireland, although they have premises in England as well.

Financial Status
  • Shares suspended
  • Rent reduction negotiations
  • Financial restructuring
Company Details
  • Based in Ireland
  • Premises in England
  • Four bathroom brands

Ongoing Negotiations

The company's shares have been suspended at the current time. The process it is going through is very similar to the one other companies have tried as well. Some of them have had to ask for rent reductions in order to keep trading in the locations they are currently in. This would appear to be the exact same situation Qualceram Shires now finds itself in.

This situation has not arisen overnight though. The company has been discussing options and trying to reach a new agreement with landlords for several months. Obviously everyone has bills to pay, and while a rent reduction would help out the business, it won't do any favours for the people who have to rent out the buildings.

Potential Outcome

So might we see a reprieve for the bathroom company? It is possible – as we have seen before, anything is possible – but whether it is actually probable or not remains to be seen. One thing is certain though; if the company did go under we would lose four distinctive brands and bathroom outlets. That would leave us with less choice than we currently have.

Industry Impact

Unfortunately even though every recession does claim its casualties, it doesn't make it any easier to bear the brunt as more businesses go under.

Potential Losses
  • Four bathroom brands
  • Reduced market choice
  • Industry consolidation
Market Response
  • Home improvement focus
  • Alternative brands
  • Competitive pricing