UK company insolvencies edge up 1% in August 2026 but fall year-on-year

CVLs made up 74% of cases, down 4% on July and 9% on the year, continuing a gradual easing after record highs in recent years. Compulsory liquidations rose 8% month-on-month and 5% year-on-year, while administrations jumped 44% on July and 60% on August 2025, largely attributed to more than 250 connected real estate companies entering administration since March.

Commentators note businesses still face pressure from costs and weak demand, alongside increased HMRC enforcement, but these strains have yet to trigger a renewed surge in insolvencies, suggesting stabilisation rather than an upward trend.