Plans to close a kiln at a Staffordshire ceramics factory have been described as ‘bad for business’ and ‘bad for Staffordshire’.
Villeroy & Boch Group has announced plans to close one of two tunnel kilns at its Armitage Shanks site in Rugeley, potentially impacting 100 employees.
The company says the proposal is part of a strategic realignment to optimise operations, streamline capacity and enhance long-term business competitiveness and growth.
But GMB Union, which represents workers across the ceramics and pottery industry, has voiced disappointment at the plans.
Justine Jones, GMB Organiser, said: “This closure is bad for business and bad for Staffordshire.
“We are on the verge of a house building revolution in this country, demand for UK-manufactured sanitary goods could be at record highs.
“Our ceramics firms are once again feeling the pinch of sky-high energy costs and our union will not stand by and let workers pay the price.”
Dave Robertson, MP for Lichfield, Burntwood and the villages, added: “I am concerned about plans to close a large kiln at Armitage Shanks and the potential impact of this on the livelihoods of dozens of my constituents.
“Ceramics production at Armitage Shanks is not just livelihoods, it’s part of the heritage of our area.
“It will undoubtedly be a very difficult time for a lot of people, but I remain committed to working with the company and trade union representatives to safeguard ceramics production in Armitage and to support as many livelihoods as possible.”
The company that became Armitage Shanks was founded in 1817 by potter Thomas Bond who began producing sanitaryware in Armitage, near Rugeley.
The brand has been at the forefront of sanitaryware manufacture for many years.
Villeroy & Boch is entering a minimum formal 45-day consultation period with trade unions and employee representatives.
The firm has described the UK as one of its largest markets and has said that commercial roles and its central distribution centre are not impacted by the proposal.
UK Managing Director Lisa Whitfield said: “This is an incredibly difficult announcement to make.
“We recognise the impact this proposal will have on our employees, their families, and the community and we are grateful for the dedication and hard work of our site manufacturing team.”
