Despite celebrating the company’s 260th anniversary this year, some tough decisions have been taken at Wedgwood in Barlaston, where 130 potters and 15 workers – around a third of the company’s staff – heard that they had been axed.
According to the Stoke Sentinel, production of high-end products – to include Jasperware – will continue to be handmade in England becoming the main focus for Barlaston staff. The proposed changes include a review of product lines and the likelihood of the production of some tableware goods to other manufacturing sites.
Founded in 1759, Wedgwood is one of the world’s oldest companies and is currently celebrating its 260thanniversary. It was founded by Josiah Wedgwood, the grandfather of naturalist Charles Darwin. In 2015, it was bought by the Fiskars Group.
A show garden at the RHS Chelsea flower show in May is among the special events helping to celebrate Wedgwood’s 260thanniversary this year.
Top: A statue of Josiah Wedgwood greets visitors to the company’s Visitor Centre at Barlaston, Stoke on Trent.
