On the ropes due to a lack of consumer spending in its international markets, UK-based party goods manufacturer and retailer Wonder Group (formerly Amscan International) is on the verge of entering into administration.  

According to reporting from Sky News from yesterday, Wonder is preparing to appoint an insolvency advisor to see it through the UK’s administration process, which occurs when a business can no longer meet its debt obligations. If this moves forward, the advisor will then work together with Wonder to restructure its business, liquidate assets and make new arrangements with creditors. 

“In response to the ongoing challenging global trading environment, we have recently commenced a strategic review across Wonder Group via which we are seeking to reshape our cost base,” says a company spokesperson. “As part of this, we have been working closely with advisors and our wider stakeholders to explore a number of options to bring new investment into the business.” 

Wonder owns and operates more than 10 party goods and costume brands under its umbrella, including Christy’s Dress Up, Kostume, Ginger Ray and Party Delights. It also acquired Party King in 2022 to help get to an annual revenue target of US$538 million by 2026. 

Wonder employs more than 2,500 employees across the UK and Europe. According to the company’s website, it generated US$322.3 million in annual revenue last year, 60% of which was derived from international markets, and 35% from e-commerce.