A SPECIALIST refurbishment fit-out firm for the hospitality industry has ceased trading.

WFC Contracting, based in Newton Abbot, had spent 49 years working for high-end clients fitting out bars, restaurants and hotels.

But in an announcement on social media, the company said it had ceased trading ‘effective immediately’ blaming a major client’s failure to adhere to its payment obligations.

The company, which had a workforce of about 60 and was based at Olympus House in Kingsteignton Road, has gone into voluntary liquidation.

The announcement said: ‘This difficult decision arises from significant financial challenges primarily due to a major client’s failure to adhere to their payment obligations.

‘For 49 years, WFC has been dedicated to providing top-quality services to clinches and fostering solid relationships with the industry.

‘This unforeseen situation has been incredibly challenging for our team and we want to express our appreciate for the support and trust that our clients, suppliers and subcontractors have placed in us.’

The company’s previous clients included exclusive restaurants and hotels in London including Hilton, Gordon Ramsey at the Berkeley Hotel, Bulgari, Harvey Nicholls and the National Gallery.

Its high-profile work also included as fitting-out the Prince of Wales Theatre in London and refurbishing the capital’s iconic Royal Lancaster Hotel.

Most recently, it had completed the seafood restaurants Scott’s Richmond and The Aubrey in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.

In October 2024, the company was saved after hitting cash-flow problems.

With a reputation for high end clients, the company had a £45m turnover but had been hit by higher costs and tighter margins.

A notice published by the London Gazette on October 17 said the company was wound up voluntarily on October 10 and liquidators appointed.