In a significant development for the UK's specialist retail sector, a prominent music shop has entered administration, marking the end of its 18-year trading history. Shackleford Pianos, based in Macclesfield, Cheshire, has ceased operations and taken its website offline following the appointment of administrators.
Administrators Appointed for Long-Standing Business
The company has formally appointed Richard Cole and Steve Kenny of KBL Advisory as joint administrators to oversee the winding down of the business. This move comes after nearly two decades of serving musicians, students, and piano enthusiasts across the region.
On its now-inaccessible website, the company posted a final message stating: "Shackleford Pianos would like to thank all of our customers for their valued support over the past 18 years. We are currently undergoing a transition period, and our website is temporarily unavailable."
Director Comments on Future Possibilities
Aaron Shackleford, who served as both Director and Piano Technician at the company, has addressed the situation publicly. While acknowledging the current administration process, he indicated that the business might explore future opportunities, stating they would be "looking at it in the future."
This statement suggests potential for some form of business revival or restructuring, though no specific details or timelines have been provided regarding what this might entail.
Recent Marketing Activity Contrasts with Sudden Closure
The administration announcement comes as something of a surprise given the company's recent marketing efforts. Just six days before the collapse, Shackleford Pianos was actively promoting products on Instagram, showcasing premium instruments to its followers.
In one particularly detailed post, the company highlighted a Bechstein London Model Baby Grand Piano in Burl Walnut, describing it as: "a beautifully proportioned classic grand that perfectly balances heritage tone with elegant design."
The promotional text continued: "Handcrafted with the tonal soul and responsive action that Bechstein instruments are known for, this baby grand delivers rich, singing resonance across every register. Its warm bass, lyrical mid-range, and clear treble make it equally compelling for intimate performance, repertoire practice, or refined home settings."
Customer Testimonials Highlight Previous Success
The business closure appears particularly poignant given the strong customer feedback the company had received. One satisfied shopper left a glowing 5/5 review, praising multiple aspects of their experience.
The review stated: "Amazing service, great comms, great price and fantastic experience. The delivery guys were also amazing, no dinks or scratches. I even got a complimentary re-tune."
Such positive testimonials underscore the quality of service Shackleford Pianos provided during its operational years, making its sudden entry into administration all the more notable within the specialist retail landscape.
