Jobs at risk as historic pottery firm reveals restructuring plans
Almost 150 jobs could be lost at historic pottery firm Wedgwood as the company revealed restructuring plans.
Wedgwood has said a total of 145 roles would be cut at its manufacturing operations in Barlaston, Staffordshire, a move the company said was required to reduce complexity across operations, improve competitiveness to “provide the right platform for future growth”.
The proposals include reductions to UK production capacity but the Wedgwood said that high-end products including Jasperware will continue to be handmade in England,and that the design, product development and global marketing of products will continue to be based in the UK.
Under the plans, manufacturing operations in Barlaston will focus on hand crafted, high-end products that are core to the brand, it said.
“A review of other product lines will be undertaken, and in the event the proposals are implemented following that review, it is expected that the production of some tableware products will be consolidated to other existing manufacturing sites. All restaurant operations at Barlaston will also be reviewed in line with these proposed changes,” the company said.
Ulla Lettijeff, president, living business, Fiskars Group, the owner of Wedgwood, said: “Our Barlaston site will continue to be an important centre for British craftsmanship and we are committed to developing it – both as a strong home for Wedgwood and as a visitor attraction. However, as the market evolves we must look at how we can manage our business in a sustainable way and strengthen our competitive position.”
“While the plans announced today are right for the long-term health of our business, these are very difficult decisions to make and we do not take them lightly. We will do our utmost to provide the right transition support for those who may be affected by these plans.”
GMB, the union for ceramics workers, responded to the news, with Wendy Grieveson saying: “Wedgwood has been part of Stoke’s manufacturing landscape for more than two hundred and fifty years and an iconic part of the UK ceramic sector.
“This news is gravely concerning and members are today understandably concerned for their future – they have many concerns that must now be addressed.
“GMB will be entering urgent discussions with the company this afternoon to seek the clarity and reassurance Wedgwood’s proud workforce need and deserve.”
