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- Jarvis plc (LSE: JRVS) was a British company that specialised in construction and civil engineering, with a focus on support services to the British railway industry during its latter years of operations. It was established during 1846 as the Jarvis Construction Company. For much of the company's existence, its activities were focused on the construction sector. During the 1990s, senior management opted to heavily involve the firm in the recently privatised British railways, engaging in a spree of acquisitions to quickly expand Jarvis, building up substantial debts in the process. While primarily focused on railway maintenance services, Jarvis also undertook rail freight operations. During the 21st century, the company took significant reputation damage from its involvement in the railway sector after multiple incidents, including a train derailment at Potters Bar. Despite exiting the rail maintenance business during October 2003 and a change in management, Jarvis was burdened heavily with debts, compelling the sale of multiple divisions. While Jarvis was viewed by some commentators as recovering by 2008, its financial backers became unwilling to extend further credit to the company by 2010. Accordingly, Jarvis went into administration at the end of March 2010 and was dissolved shortly thereafter. (en)
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