Administrators Peter Lucas and Damien Lau of P.A Lucas & Co have been appointed to oversee the process, according to reports. The company employs approximately 340 staff in Australia and 34 in New Zealand, and is expected to continue operating while options are explored. It remains unclear what specific financial debts led to the administration or whether any layoffs will occur.
Industry leaders expressed concern. Ben Lazzaro, chief executive of the Australian Made Campaign, called the situation "incredibly sad and concerning." Kylie Roberts-Frost, CEO of the Australian Bedding Stewardship Council, described the news as a "sad day for the industry."
As a fifth-generation Australian-made business with more than 125 years of history, A.H. Beard represents the very best of local craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainability. This situation highlights the growing strain on local manufacturers from rising costs and increased competition from imported goods. It’s a timely reminder of why supporting Australian Made matters – to protect local jobs, strengthen our industrial capability, and ensure iconic businesses like A.H. Beard can continue to thrive into the future.
The scheme of getting manufacturers on board with voluntary green measures – using recyclable materials and getting beds out of landfills at the end of its life cycle – would not exist were it not for the voluntary efforts of A.H. Beard. Today’s news about A.H. Beard is deeply saddening, both for me personally, for my team and for our industry. What makes this so difficult to sit with is that A.H. Beard was doing the right thing. They were investing in sustainability, supporting a stewardship scheme, and taking responsibility for end-of-life at a time when many in the industry are not.