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Susie Rack and Alex McIntyre, residents of the West Midlands, reported that ceramics firm Wedgwood is making a significant change by pausing production at its Staffordshire factory for 90 days starting on September 29th. The decision leads to 70 employees being placed on temporary leave due to elevated inventory levels caused by decreased consumer demand in key markets. Additionally, factory tours will be halted until early January as confirmed by the owner, Fiskars Group. The community of Barlaston, where the factory is located, plays a vital role in the heritage and operations of both Fiskars Group and Wedgwood.
The Barlaston factory is known for manufacturing high-end and custom designs, such as handcrafted fine bone china pieces and Jasperware, a pottery style developed in the 18th Century by founder Josiah Wedgwood. The skilled workers at the factory utilize techniques that reflect the founder’s commitment to craftsmanship. Although factory tours are suspended until January 5th, other on-site experiences remain open for visitors to enjoy. Despite the temporary shutdown, Wedgwood remains a significant contributor to the local economy in the region.
Tom Hammersley, marketing manager at Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, expressed concern over the drop in demand amid rising costs. He highlighted the global demand for Wedgwood products, especially in countries like China and Japan. However, Dr. Allison Gardner, Labour MP for Stoke-on-Trent South, reassured the public that the pause in production was a temporary measure in response to seasonal fluctuations. She emphasized the importance of monitoring the situation closely and maintaining communication with the company and trade unions. Meanwhile, Gareth Snell, MP for Stoke-on-Trent Central, raised concerns about the impact of the shutdown on the ceramics industry, calling for immediate support to address the challenges faced by pottery workers in the region
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