MP Allison Gardner has said the government must act now to support the ceramics industry following the announcement of job cuts at Wedgwood.
It emerged at the end of last week that redundancies are to be made at the pottery company’s factory in Barlaston.
Although the exact number of job losses has not been confirmed, it has been described as a ‘body blow’ by the GMB Union.
The news comes following a 90-day pause in production last year when 70 workers were put on temporary leave due to a drop in customer demand.
The MP for Stoke-on-Trent South and the Villages said: “The challenges facing the ceramics industry are well known to ministers, not least because myself and North Staffordshire colleagues have raised them repeatedly.
“This is not the first company to face these pressures, and it cannot continue to be treated as an isolated issue. Government must now step up with a clearer, more targeted plan to support our ceramics, protect skilled jobs, and address the long-term challenges it faces.”
She said she will be meeting with ministers to demand ‘concrete action’ to support Stoke-on-Trent’s ceramics industry.
She added: “This sector is fundamental to our local economy and our national heritage, and it requires urgent and sustained government commitment.
“With the right action, we can safeguard skills, support workers, and secure a future for British ceramics – both in tableware and advanced sectors – in Stoke-on-Trent. I will continue to make that case forcefully at every level of government.”
Wedgwood is owned by Fiskars Group, which has issued a Stock Exchange statement outlining plans to turn around the financial performance of its Vita business area, which Wedgwood is part of.
The plans are expected to lead to the loss of approximately 310 jobs globally, of which slightly more than half are office based, and result in total annual cost savings of approximately EUR 28 million. One third of the savings are expected in the second half of this year, with the rest made in 2027.
A statement from Fiskars Group’s Business Area Vita reads: “For 10 years, Vita Brands, part of Fiskars Group, has been proud to help preserve the tradition of pottery-making in Staffordshire by leading Wedgwood through some immensely challenging and complex global market dynamics since our acquisition.
“We are committed to continuing this iconic brand’s legacy – but we need to do so whilst taking measured steps to align production with demand, manufacturing costs and supply chain evolution.
“As part of our ongoing operational review, production at our Barlaston factory is to focus on high-end, hand-crafted products, including Jasperware and Prestige Bone China, maintaining unique, local skills. Sadly, this will necessitate a reduction in the number of roles at Barlaston. We are commencing a standard 30 day consultation and will work closely with the workforce and trade unions to ensure that those affected receive correct support.
“By taking this step, we are ensuring the famous Wedgwood name and the Staffordshire craftsmanship associated with it continue.”
Both Dr Gardner and the GMB have pledged to support Wedgwood workers.
Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s JET service will be working with with Jobcentre Plus and the National Careers service to provide tailored support. And leader Jane Ashworth has said discussions with the government took place last week on the need for extra support.
Anyone affected by the redundancies can contact the JET service on 01782 231215 or email jet2work@stoke.gov.uk
