UK fine art company collapses into administration – in business since 1976 | UK | News
A long-established London picture framing company that has been serving customers for half a century has gone into administration.
Chelsea-based fine art framing specialist Alec Drew Picture Frames Limited has been placed into administration on 1 June 2026, according to an announcement published in The London Gazette.
Founded in February 1976, the company has operated from premises on Cale Street in Chelsea for 50 years and has built a reputation for high-quality framing services.
The appointment of joint administrators Ian Robert and Christopher Purkiss from Moore Kingston Smith & Partners LLP has been approved by the Commercial and Property Tribunals of the High Court of Justice of England and Wales.
A circular issued following the administration stated that the company’s affairs, affairs and properties were now managed by joint managers acting as representatives of the company.
Customers were informed that the business was no longer accepting new business and was open for collections only. Items can be collected from the facility between 10.00 and 17.00 from Monday to Friday and between 10.00 and 14.00 on Saturdays.
Alec Drew Picture Frames was widely known in the art and framing industry for its museum and preservation standard work. The company offered a wide range of framing services, from simple timber moldings to bespoke handmade gessoed and gilded traditional frames.
In business for over fifty years, the firm has established itself as a respected neighborhood picture framer in Chelsea, serving collectors, artists, and customers seeking expert framing solutions.
The administration marks the end of a 50-year chapter for the company, which has become a familiar name in one of London’s best-known neighbourhoods.
The reason for the bankruptcy was not specified in the administrative announcement.
Clients seeking further information were directed to contact joint administrators at Moore Kingston Smith & Partners LLP.
