Dozens of jobs have been lost at Inverurie butcher Donald Russell - with 90 more still at risk - after a buyer could not be found.
Blaming "mounting challenges" including volatile meat prices, the firm announced in February it planned to close, putting 120 roles in jeopardy.
But after exploring "all possible alternatives", the Donald Russell was unable to secure a buyer for the business as an ongoing concern, resulting in the confirmed loss of at least 30 of those 120 jobs.
The remaining 90 positions are still at risk as the company launches a new consultation on efforts to sell the brand and website.
A spokesperson for Donald Russell, the BBC reports, said: "Sadly, after exploring all possible alternatives, we were unable to find a buyer for our business as an ongoing concern.
"We are now in advanced talks to sell the brand and direct-to-consumer website, and a new 30-day consultation has begun.
"We are grateful to all our fantastic colleagues, who have maintained the highest standards throughout an incredibly difficult period."