John Hornby Skewes is shutting down

John Hornby Skewes & Co, known for Vintage and Fret-King brands, is shutting down its operations.

John Hornby Skewes announces closure after over sixty years

John Hornby Skewes & Co, a key player in the UK music distribution market, has announced its closure after more than sixty years in business. The company, recognized for popular brands such as Vintage, Encore, and Fret-King, points to unique circumstances following the death of its founder as the main reason for this decision. In an official statement, JHS clarified that it is not facing financial difficulties and is entirely solvent. They plan to wind down operations gradually over the next twelve months while seeking to sell their valuable trademarks and intellectual property to potential buyers.

The closure of John Hornby Skewes marks a significant moment in the UK's music industry. The company has been a trusted name in guitar distribution, providing a range of well-loved brands for decades. While the reasons given point to a family legacy and the death of the founder, many in the industry will wonder about the implications for musicians and retailers who rely on their products. This situation could set a precedent for other companies in the sector facing similar challenges as ownership transitions occur.

Highlights

The future of popular brands like Vintage and Fret-King now hangs in balance.