Direct Golf UK: Troubles Continue

John Andrew, Chairman of Direct Golf UK

John Andrew, the chairman of the UK’s second biggest golf retailer, Direct Golf UK has reportedly filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators in his fight to  retain control of the company with Sports Direct owning billionaire, Mike Ashley.

John Andrew, is looking for an ‘urgent cash injection to keep the business going’ and is ‘working with advisors from accountancy firm Begbies Traynor in an effort to salvage the firm – having filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators. Such a move provides protection from creditors while the company seeks a way forward.’

Online sales are curently on hold, with a message appearing on screen saying “PLEASE NOTE: Due to technical problems with our systems, we are unable to accept orders on the website at this time. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.”

The move is complicated by reports that Direct Golf employees have been sent letters stating that they are now employees of Sports Direct, which last year purchased a 25 percent equity stake in the business. Sports Direct is owned by billionaire Mike Ashley, the owner of Newcastle United Football Club.

John Andrew’s claims Sports Direct sent in officials to change the locks on Direct Golf’s headquarters in Milnsbridge, Huddersfield. He has since changed them back as he owns the property personally, and has hired a security guard for the property.

‘Callers phoning the head office of Direct Golf UK get a recorded message saying the phone system is down and someone would call back “as soon as these issues are rectified”, states the Huddersfield Daily Examiner.

‘The position for customers who have ordered and paid for goods online remains unclear.’

Direct Golf employs 180 people and is the UK’s second largest golf retailer. In 2012 it secured a £3.5m funding deal from Royal Bank of Scotland.