A historic removals company that has been in business since 1871 has entered administration – the family-owned business offered a range of moving services
09:11, 05 Feb 2026Updated 19:35, 05 Feb 2026
The removals company has gone into administration (stock)(Image: Getty Images/Cultura RF)
A historic removals company has entered administration.
Administrators were appointed for Johnsons 1871 on January 28, according to a notice on the official public record website, The Gazette. Johnsons 1871 is based in Northwich and offers home removals, storage facilities, office relocations and cleaning services. It reported a turnover of £29 million and profits of £56,291 in its latest company accounts for the year to March 2024.
The family-owned business was founded in 1871 by Joseph Johnson, who used a fleet of horses and carts to deliver coal in the winter and help people move homes in Cheshire during the summer. Before entering the removals trade, he first dealt in glass, china and earthenware in Northwich.
Johnsons 1871 is based in Northwich(Image: Johnsons1871)
Johnsons 1871’s website states: “We’ve been providing relocation services for individuals and businesses as far back as 1871 and exist to provide you with an incredible experience, every time. Average is not an option for us, and since Joseph Johnson’s first venture in 1871, we have striven to personify our brand values of care, integrity and respect.”
The company describes itself as the “complete moving, project management and installation partner”, saying its clients include npower, the NHS, the Co-operative, B&Q, Barclays and BBC Cymru Wales.
Insolvency firm Leonard Curtis told the Express that the business was sold to Amer Logistics Limited on the same day the administrators were appointed. The firm said the sale protected 150 jobs.
Administrator Steve Muncaster, from Leonard Curtis, said: “We are delighted to have completed a sale of this long-established business, so preserving the employment of the entire workforce, and allowing its extensive customer base to continue to work with the business.”
Johnsons 1871 has not commented on its decision to enter administration.