Support has been launched for those affected by pottery firm Wade Ceramics collapsing into administration.
Around 130 people are believed to have lost their jobs following the shock announcement.
The 155-year-old business, in Stoke-on-Trent, is said to have been hit by the loss of a major customer as well as current economic challenges including rising energy costs.
Two events will take place over the coming week to help former staff members find new employment.
Stoke-on-Trent Central MP Jo Gideon has worked with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to set up an event in Hanley and has vowed to call for help to address challenges all ceramics firms are currently facing.
Events will be held on:
- Friday 9th December, 10am until 1pm, at Hanley Jobcentre Plus, Upper Huntbach Street, Hanley, ST1 2BX. The DWP will have employers looking to recruit and there will be advice available on budgeting, pensions and benefits, CVs, job search, skills transfer, and local courses as well as well-being support.
- Tuesday 13th December, 9.30am until 12.30pm, at Steelite International, Orme Street, Middleport, ST6 3RB. The venue will be signposted. Managers will be on hand to perform interviews and discuss roles available. The event is open to all former Wade factory and office staff.
Ms Gideon said: “Having spoken with the DWP, I can confirm that they are aware of 130 people who have been made redundant from Wade.
“There is never a good time to lose your job, but in the run up to Christmas it is particularly hard. I know there are people who have worked in Wade for many years and it is sad to see this local ceramics firm close down after so long.
“I’m sure though that all those who have been affected will have transferrable skills which will be valued by other local employers.”
She added: “The challenges ceramics firms are facing with energy costs is an issue I have been campaigning on for some time. I will be writing to the Prime Minister this week in my capacity as Chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Ceramics to call for more assistance.”
Wade Ceramics, famous for its Whimsies collectibles and iconic Gluggle Jugs, was established in Burslem but more recently moved to a state-of-the-art factory at Etruria Valley.
The company has not yet commented but it has been confirmed administrators were appointed on Friday.
A spokesman for joint administrators BDO LLP Business Restructuring Partners Kerry Bailey and James Stephen said: “Due to the loss of a major customer at the start of the year, as well as current economic challenges including rising energy and supply costs, the directors concluded the business was no longer viable in its current form and regrettably the company has ceased to trade.
“The joint administrators will now be taking all necessary steps to maximise returns for the benefit of all creditors in accordance with our legal duties.”
