Smiths Butchers Limited, a well-known butcher shop in Middlesbrough, has entered liquidation after the owner cited unsustainable rising costs that made it impossible to continue providing meat at reasonable prices. The business was officially appointed a liquidator on July 2, 2026, following its closure on June 6, 2026.
Owner's Heartbreaking Announcement
In a Facebook post, owner Paul Smith expressed his sorrow: "This isn't an easy write in any shape or form. I opened Smiths 8 years ago with the hope to build something for the future for my family." He explained that over the past 12 months, the team struggled to make the business work, but it was no longer viable.
Smith added: "The business just cannot sustain itself and has done nothing but cost us money for quite some time and for this we must shut the doors on this chapter in our lives. 8 years of owning my own business has been, well, difficult to say the least, but it just isn't viable anymore."
Community Reaction
Customers expressed devastation at the closure. One shopper said: "Smiths has been an absolutely amazing butchers for years. It will be a huge loss to the community." Another commented: "Another tragic tale I'm afraid, another perfectly good business going under."
Background and Liquidation Details
According to Companies House, Smiths Butchers was incorporated in 2017, though Smith noted the business operated from 2018 to 2026. He had served in the same store for over 14 years before becoming owner. Kate Ellis of Ellis Breese Business Recovery and Insolvency Ltd has been appointed as the liquidator to handle the company's affairs.
