British bed maker Airsprung has collapsed into administration, resulting in 71 redundancies at its Trowbridge site.

The mattress and bed manufacturer, which has a history dating back more than 150 years, entered administration after struggling with cashflow challenges and wider pressures across the sector.

The business, based on Canal Road in Trowbridge, had previously warned it could face closure unless a rescue deal was secured.

Administrators confirmed that 71 employees have been made redundant, while a further 131 staff will remain with the company as options for a potential sale or rescue are explored.

Joint administrator Edward Williams said: “It’s very sad that this well-known business with 150 years of history and iconic brands within the mattress and bed industry has had to go into administration.”

He added that affected employees would be supported during what he described as an “unsettling” period.

Airsprung was founded as Chapmans of Trowbridge in 1871 and became one of the UK’s best-known bed manufacturers. The company supplied a bed to 10 Downing Street in 1957 and, by 1987, had grown to become the UK’s second-largest bed maker.

Its products have been stocked by major retailers including Dunelm, Argos and Asda, while the firm also produced mattresses and beds under the Airsprung, Gainsborough and Airofreem brands.

Airsprung chief executive and director Tean Dallaway said the collapse was “very sad and disappointing”.

“I would like to sincerely thank our customers and suppliers for their support over many years, and most importantly our employees for their dedication, professionalism, and hard work,” he told the BBC.

“Their commitment has been central to the business, and it is very sad and disappointing that the business has entered administration.”

The remaining staff will continue to support the business while administrators assess whether a buyer can be found in the coming weeks.

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