Articles | China maker calls in administrators

Waterford Wedgwood jobs at risk

Published: Monday, 5 January 2009, 8:07AM

Crystal and china maker Waterford Wedgwood has called in administrators to its UK arm and parts of its Irish business.

Around 2,700 British and Irish jobs are at risk at the company best known for its Wedgwood pottery, Royal Doulton and Waterford crystal, and whose origins can be traced back 250 years.

Administrators Deloitte were called in after talks over a possible investment in the business failed and lenders' patience ran out. However, chief executive David Sculley said he is "optimistic" a buyer for the businesses can be found.

Non-executive chairman Sir Anthony O'Reilly added: "We are consoled only by the fact that everything that could have been done, by management and by the board, to preserve the group, was done."

The business - which had been in talks with a private equity investor over much-needed funding - will continue to trade while discussions continue.

The UK business includes around 600 staff at its manufacturing base in Barlaston, Stoke-on-Trent, 170 people across 19 retail stores and 60 people in its London head office. The Irish arm has around 800 staff based in Waterford.

Outside the UK, there are 5,800 employees, including its huge Indonesia-based manufacturing centre where 1,500 people work.