DB WALL AND FLOOR LTD

Executive Summary

DB WALL AND FLOOR LTD operates as a small specialist contractor within the building completion and finishing sector, characterized by modest asset holdings and limited working capital. Its financial position lags typical industry benchmarks, reflecting tight liquidity and declining net assets amid challenging market conditions such as material cost inflation and skilled labor shortages. Positioned as a niche local player, the company faces competitive pressures from larger, better-capitalized firms but may capitalize on ongoing demand in the UK construction finishing market if operational and financial management improve.

DB WALL AND FLOOR LTD - Analysis Report

Company Number: 12836625

Analysis Date: 2025-07-20 15:47 UTC

1. Industry Classification
   DB WALL AND FLOOR LTD operates under SIC code 43390, which corresponds to "Other building completion and finishing." This sector falls within the broader construction industry and typically includes specialist trades such as plastering, tiling, and floor laying. Key characteristics of this sector include project-based revenue streams, reliance on skilled labor, and sensitivity to construction market cycles and housing demand. Businesses in this sector are often small to medium-sized enterprises serving local or regional markets.

2. Relative Performance
   DB WALL AND FLOOR LTD is a micro to small-sized private limited company, as evidenced by its modest financial figures and two employees. Its net assets of £1,708 and negative net current assets of £105 as of August 2023 indicate tight liquidity and limited capital resources. Compared to typical industry benchmarks, where small construction finishing firms often maintain positive working capital and net assets in the tens of thousands, DB WALL AND FLOOR LTD’s financial position is relatively weak. Fixed assets of £7,777 are low but consistent with the nature of trade contractors who generally hold minimal long-term assets. The company’s reduction in net assets from £3,335 in 2022 to £1,708 in 2023 suggests a decline in retained earnings or operational profitability, which is a concern relative to industry peers that focus on maintaining steady profitability and positive cash flows.

3. Sector Trends Impact
   The building completion and finishing sector is currently influenced by several market dynamics: supply chain disruptions affecting materials costs, labour shortages in skilled trades, and fluctuating demand linked to construction starts and renovations. Increasing material prices and inflationary pressures pose margin risks for small contractors. Additionally, the sector faces rising regulatory and health & safety compliance costs. For DB WALL AND FLOOR LTD, these trends likely exacerbate financial strain given its limited scale and tight liquidity. However, the ongoing demand for residential and commercial fit-outs in the UK could provide opportunities for growth if operational efficiencies and cash management improve.

4. Competitive Positioning
   DB WALL AND FLOOR LTD is positioned as a niche local player focusing on specialist trade services (tiling and floor finishing), with two directors both identified as tilers, indicating hands-on management. This direct operational involvement is common among small trade contractors but can limit scalability. Strengths include a focused service offering and likely close customer relationships due to local presence. Weaknesses include limited financial resilience (negative working capital), dependence on a small team, and vulnerability to cash flow fluctuations. Compared to typical competitors in the sector, which may have larger staff, more diversified services, and stronger balance sheets, DB WALL AND FLOOR LTD appears to be a follower with relatively constrained resources. To improve competitive standing, the company would need to enhance liquidity, potentially expand its workforce, and possibly broaden its service portfolio.