Afford Rent-a-Car shuts down after 45 years, with 34 jobs lost

Vehicle rental business Afford-Rent-a-Car has ceased trading with the loss of 34 jobs.

Stoke-based administrators Currie Young confirmed this morning that they were called in on 5 February following recent years of sustained financial pressure arising from significantly rising operating costs.

Directors has been engaged in negotiations to sell the business as a going concern prior to the appointment of administrators, but a transaction could not be concluded.

Following the appointment, the company’s assets have been sold to an undisclosed third party. The sale completed today.

Joint Administrator Steve Currie said: “Afford Rent-a-Car was a long-standing and respected local employer with deep roots in the community. The directors made significant efforts to secure a sale of the business prior to our appointment. Unfortunately, by the time we were instructed, the financial position and time constraints limited the available options.

“This case highlights the critical importance of seeking professional advice at the earliest signs of financial distress. Early engagement significantly increases the range of restructuring and rescue options available, including the potential to preserve jobs and achieve a going concern outcome.

“We appreciate this will be difficult news for employees, customers and suppliers, and we are working to support all affected parties through the process.”

Afford Rent-a-Car was headquartered in Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent, and also had a base in Stafford.

Originally established in 1981 and trading under its current ownership for 45 years, the firm was led by founders Tony Moore and Tony Dobson.

Financial pressures have included insurance premiums, vehicle leasing costs, and repair and maintenance expenses, alongside a declining appetite for vehicle rentals. Administrators have said these combined factors placed ‘considerable strain’ on cash flow and overall viability.