UK Chocolate Pizza Company Collapses Weeks Before Easter Holiday Rush
The Gourmet Chocolate Pizza Co, a novelty chocolate business that operated for nearly two decades, has ceased trading unexpectedly just weeks before the crucial Easter holiday period. The Nottinghamshire-based company confirmed its closure through a message posted on its official website, though no specific reasons for the shutdown have been disclosed publicly.
Specialist Chocolate Business Founded in 2007
Established in 2007 and based in Cotgrave, Nottinghamshire, The Gourmet Chocolate Pizza Co built its reputation on creating distinctive chocolate "pizzas" that featured chocolate bases decorated with various sweets, additional chocolate pieces, and biscuits, all presented in authentic pizza boxes. The company also offered personalised gift options alongside its signature products.
The brief closure statement on the company's website reads: "The Gourmet Chocolate Pizza Co has ceased trading, and would like to thank you for your custom over the years. We wish all our customers all the best in 2026."
Social media activity suggests potential customer service issues preceding the closure, with the company's last Instagram post appearing approximately three weeks before the announcement. One customer comment on the platform complained about not receiving an ordered product, though the company has not responded publicly to these concerns.
Additional Business Failures Across Multiple Sectors
In separate business developments, WCM Europe Ltd, an engineering and manufacturing firm specialising in plastic components and automotive systems, has entered administration. Based in Basildon, Essex, the company worked with global automotive brands and described its operations as "engineering and manufacturing to produce automotive solutions."
Established in 1948 as WCM Patterns Ltd, the company expanded its Basildon production facilities by fifty percent in 2017 to accommodate clean assembly, painting, and storage operations. Interpath Advisory has been appointed as joint administrator to manage the process, with their appointment officially recorded in The London Gazette on March 4, 2026.
The administration process transfers control to insolvency practitioners who will evaluate potential restructuring options, pursue company or asset sales, or implement closure if rescue proves unfeasible.
Historic Removals Company Also Enters Administration
Johnsons 1871, a family-owned removals and storage business operating since its founding in 1871, has similarly entered administration. Based in Northwich, the company provided comprehensive relocation services including home removals, storage solutions, office relocations, and cleaning services.
The company traced its origins to founder Joseph Johnson, who initially traded in glass, china, and earthenware before establishing a removal service using horse-drawn carts to transport coal during winter months and assist with residential moves throughout Cheshire during summer seasons.
Johnsons 1871 served notable clients including npower, the National Health Service, the Co-operative, B&Q, Barclays, and BBC Cymru Wales. The company's website emphasised their commitment to exceptional service, stating: "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 simultaneous collapse of these three distinct businesses—spanning gourmet food retail, automotive manufacturing, and relocation services—highlights ongoing economic challenges across multiple sectors of the UK economy.
