Published: 20/04/2026 By Hannah Duncan
Company Insolvencies rise modestly in March 2026In March 2026, 2,022 companies entered insolvency in England and Wales. This was a 7% increase on February, but broadly in line with March 2025, when 1,995 cases were recorded.
The rise follows four months of lower-than-usual insolvency volumes. However, the increase should be treated with caution, as it was largely driven by a one‑off spike in administrations, linked to more than 100 connected companies in the real estate sector entering insolvency. Outside of this exceptional factor, overall insolvency levels remain relatively stable.
Breakdown by Insolvency Type
Of the 2,022 company insolvencies recorded in March 2026:
- 1,468 were creditors’ voluntary liquidations (CVLs) accounting for 73% of all cases
- 299 were compulsory liquidations
- 235 were administrations showing a sharp monthly increase
- 20 were company voluntary arrangements (CVAs)
- 0 receivership appointments
12 month rolling insolvency rate
Over the 12 months to March 2026, the insolvency rate stood at 51.6 per 10,000 companies, meaning around one in every 194 companies entered insolvency during the year. This represents a slight easing compared with the previous year, suggesting gradual stabilisation.
Industry Trends
Construction continued to record the highest number of insolvencies, followed by wholesale and retail, and accommodation and food services. These sectors remain prominent due to their size and exposure to ongoing cost pressures.
Overall, March’s figures point to a modest uptick rather than a change in direction, with insolvency levels remaining elevated but broadly stable as we move further into 2026.
Information taken from https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/company-insolvencies-march-2026/commentary-company-insolvency-statistics-march-2026