A historic pottery firm has gone into liquidation after almost 200 years in business, putting dozens of jobs at risk.
Royal Stafford, a ceramics manufacturer based in Stoke-On-Trent, Staffordshire, has collapsed and it is expected over 70 jobs will be lost with immediate effect.
Union organiser for GMB, Colin Griffiths, called the decision ‘a wake-up call for the new Government and its industrial strategy’.
Mr Griffiths added: ‘Stoke cannot power its kilns with wind and batteries; wishful thinking means spiralling energy costs are now pushing the sector over the edge.
‘Meanwhile, the illegal importing of foreign forgeries is out of control and driving down orders even further.
‘Our ceramic and pottery industry is vital for economic growth and supports thousands of jobs across the UK.
‘The time for warm words is over, now we must see action’.
Royal Stafford which has been manufacturing ceramics in Stoke-On-Trent, Staffordshire
It is expected over 70 jobs to be lost with immediate effect. Picture: Collection of china made following the announcement of Prince William and Kate Middleton’s engagement
Union organiser for GMB , Colin Griffiths, called the decision ‘a wake-up call for the new Government and its industrial strategy’Â
Royal Stafford China was founded in 1845 in Longton by Thomas Poole in the Royal Overhouse Manufactory, one of the oldest pottery factories in Stoke-on-Trent.
Thomas Wedgwood had already operated his company in this factory since 1787, according to records.
The company later demolished this in 1869 and rebuilt it.
Royal Stafford China stopped production of bone china in 1992 when it merged with Barratts of Staffordshire and formed a new company called Royal Stafford.
The firm’s website says: ‘Edward Challinor took over the factory in 1819.
‘In 1869, the old works were entirely taken down and Edward Challinor erected a new and extensive manufactory with all of the latest improvements of machinery and appliances, the jiggers all being driven by steam power.
‘The rebuilding was commemorated in ornamental scroll stonework over the entrance.’
Since then, it has its production of high-fired English earthenware on this site.
Royal Stafford has been approached for comment.
