The flooring and bed retailer announced on Monday that administrators PwC had facilitated the sale of 54 stores and two logistics hubs to CWHP Ltd, part of the Tapi Group.

This transaction includes the transfer of 308 employees, but the company’s sites in Belfast and Newtownabbey were not included in the sale.

Founded in 1988, Carpetright has operated across the UK and Ireland, with headquarters in Purfleet, Essex. Before the sale, it had 273 stores and 1,898 employees.

The company has faced challenging trading conditions due to changing customer preferences and a decline in home improvement spending post-pandemic. Additionally, a cyber attack in April 2024 disrupted operations.

Under the terms of the deal, administrators will retain employees at the company’s head office temporarily to support the winding down of operations.

Approximately 1,108 employees at sites not included in the transaction, along with those providing in-home services, have been made redundant. The company expressed “deep regret” over this decision.

A spokesperson stated, “The administrators are working closely with the Redundancy Payments Service to ensure those affected receive their statutory entitlements as soon as possible.”

“Tapi Group has shown a strong dedication to assisting affected Carpetright employees by collaborating with other retailers to prioritize their job applications and funding workshops aimed at improving employability skills. The administrators will help facilitate this.”

Zelf Hussain, joint administrator, commented, “Carpetright has faced challenges similar to many retailers, particularly those selling high-ticket items. A combination of reduced consumer spending due to cost of living pressures, lower home sales, and a debilitating cyber attack made it impossible for the business to continue in its current form.

“The sale of some stores and the brand to Tapi has saved over 300 jobs and offers the Carpetright brand a chance to continue and flourish under new ownership. However, it is deeply saddening that there will be redundancies for the remaining workforce. We are committed to helping those affected and will ensure redundancy claims are processed swiftly.

“In collaboration with Tapi, we will assist in efforts to help individuals find new employment opportunities.

“We recognize this is an uncertain time for many affected and thank all the staff for their support during these difficult circumstances.”