The workforce of one of Thetford's major employers will be given 'every assistance', community leaders have said, after Multiyork announced it had called in the administrators.
South West Norfolk MP Elizabeth Truss said she was concerned to hear the future of national furniture chain - which employs more than 200 people at its head office and factory on Stephenson Way - was under threat.
On Wednesday it was announced that Allan Graham and Matt Ingram, of Duff and Phelps, had been appointed joint administrators for the firm.
Multiyork employs nearly 550 people and runs 50 shops across the country - including in Norwich, Ipswich and Mellis, in Suffolk
Ms Truss said: 'This is extremely concerning and my main priority is to ensure every assistance is given to the work force.
'I am seeking further information from the administrators and will work with all those involved to ensure the highly skilled staff are supported.'
The company was founded in 1978, originally operating in the Old Mill site in the village of Mellis, in Suffolk and in 1992 moved its head office and factory to Thetford.
MORE - Furniture firm with store and head office in Norfolk calls in administrators
Roy Brame, who is country councillor for Thetford East and sits on the business and property committee said it was 'another blow' for the town and the county.
He said: 'I have had relations who have worked there over the years. It is another blow for the town. This is the sort of thing we really don't want happening in the town.
'It is not only going to be bad for Thetford but for Norfolk. It is another major blow for the county.
'We will have to get Norfolk County Council to look and see what help they can give.'
He added: 'We have got to start pushing for skilled jobs in Thetford. With this A11 corridor we should be in the position where we can offer factories and skilled work forces a place to go.'
Mike Brown, vice Chair of the Thetford Business Forum and who sits on the Greater Thetford Development Partnership, said manufacturing and haulage firms are a barometer of the economy.
MORE - Thetford-based Multiyork Furniture fights back against challenging retail market
He said hope can be taken from the fact the company has gone into administration and not liquidation.
'It is tragic. Thetford is known for its manufacturing competence and this is one of the top end brands.
'Clearly the economy is taking its toll.'
He added: 'Going into administration and trading the business on must give us hope that a buyer can be found. It is a big brand and we remain hopeful that a buyer is found quickly.'
A review of all Multiyork orders made up to November 22 is being undertaken, which it is hoped would see all orders completed.
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