160 jobs axed as Scottish animation firm Axis Studios goes into administration

Scotland-based animation and VFX company Axis Studios has entered administration and made 162 staff redundant.

Axis, which has worked across TV, film and games, was said to have experienced “severe cash flow problems” after a decline in new projects and an increase in labour costs.

On Monday, July 15th, Interpath Advisory were appointed administrators and halted all projects with immediate effect. The decision impacts the firm’s main Glasgow studio and Bristol branch.

Interpath said it was searching for operators to continue existing live projects.

A “small number” of employees have been retained to “assist with the orderly wind down and transfer of knowledge following the appointment” of administrators. Prior to its collapse, Axis Studios employed 166 staff.

“Difficult decision”

Axis Studios had recently worked on a campaign for Supercell’s Clash of Clans, which saw Manchester City footballer Erling Haaland become a playable character in the game. The firm also famously worked on an iconic trailer for the original Dead Island, garnering tens of millions of views on YouTube.

“The directors worked tirelessly to explore alternative solutions, but ultimately had to take the difficult decision to seek the appointment of administrators,” said Interpath Advisory Scotland head and joint administrator Alistair McAlinden.

Joint administrator Geoff Jacob added: “Our priority is to give employees support in the first instance. We would encourage any party with an interest in Axis’ live projects to contact us immediately.”