Pressings producer Luton-based Cardale Engineering has gone into receivership. The company, which supplies a number of manufacturers and tier one suppliers, cites unrealistic car manufacturer prices and overseas competition for its demise.

In a damning statement at carmaker pricing policies, general manager Mike Kent says: “Despite very significant investment and support from our parent company over recent years, the current attitude of car manufacturers on realistic pricing, competition from abroad and the current state of the UK economy means that it has not been possible to retain the company as a viable operation.”