Roberts Bakery, which produces products stocked in various UK supermarkets, has confirmed that it is engaged with potential funders after publishing that it intended to appoint administrators.

The company published a Notice of Intention to Appoint Administrators (NOI) at the start of October, which it said would give it enough time for its management team and third parties to “secure the best possible outcome for the bakery firm”.

Roberts Bakery said the priority was to safeguard jobs, preserve its brands and place the business on a “stronger, more stable footing”.

It highlighted that in recent years, Roberts had faced an “exceptionally difficult” period, following a fire and a loss of production capacity, which in turn, resulted in a fall in market share.

It said that these pressures had been “compounded by unprecedented inflation” since the war in Ukraine, rising energy and ingredient costs and intense competitor activity, stating that these factors have made recovery “extremely challenging”.

A spokesperson for the bakery commented: “Discussions are well advanced with third parties, and we are optimistic about a positive solution in the coming days that will preserve the whole company as a going concern.

“We are keeping all stakeholders informed, including our employees. Day-to-day operations are unaffected, and the company is continuing to trade and fulfil orders as normal.

“We are grateful for the continued confidence and commitment shown by our customers and colleagues during this pivotal phase for the business.”