The UK's largest distributor of electrical appliances, BDC, otherwise known as Bridisco, went into administration on Friday.
Alan Hudson and Roy Bailey of Ernst & Young LLP were appointed joint administrators of the company, which has been in difficulty for some time.

In a statement Hudson said: "Bridisco Ltd has been experiencing trading difficulties and liquidity constraints in recent months which, combined with losing credit insurance, unfortunately resulted in the business being unable to trade outside of administration.

"The administrators will continue to trade the business with a view to selling the company as a going concern."

BDC - The British Distributing Company - was established in 1961, and is a wholesaler and distributor of a range of electrical goods including small kitchen appliances, major appliances, electrical components, security systems, lighting and consumer electronics. It launched its own Micromark brand in 1985.

Through its export division and Hong Kong offices it distributes goods throughout Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and the USA.

BDC employs around 600 staff. It is headquartered in North London and also operates through a nationwide network of 30 distribution centres in the UK.