'Oldest' Coventry firm ceases trading 'with great sadness' after 295 years

A family-owned Coventry firm believed to be the oldest in the city has officially ceased trading. Astleys, established for 295 years, has closed for good, a decision bosses say was taken with 'great sadness.'

Founded in 1730, Astleys specialised in cleaning, hygiene and janitorial products and was based at Coventry Business Park. It entered solvent liquidation and subsequently ceased trading.

Directors David and Jonathan Astley said the liquidation was sparked by various factors, including changes to buying habits after COVID. In a joint statement, they said Astleys was one of a few independent retailers in the city, and there had been a surge in multinational firms in the West Midlands.