Wedgwood family to bid for historic firm
MEMBERS of the Wedgwood family have confirmed they are in discussions with potential investors to put together a bid for the troubled pottery firm that bears their name.
The leaders of the bid are 8th generation descendants of Josiah Wedgwood, founder of the world-famous firm.
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Tom R Wedgwood, aged 39, who was a director of Wedgwood in Japan until last month, and 38-year-old Tom D Wedgwood, co-founder and director of Newton Industrial Consultants, are leading a team made up of four former directors, other members of the Wedgwood family and a number of "experienced professional advisors."
They are in talks with five interested investors from the Middle East, Asia and the UK who "share the same vision of the long-term prospects of Wedgwood, and believe in its continued status as one of England's leading luxury lifestyle brands". The family said all interested investors have access to enough money to buy and run Wedgwood individually, although the formation of a consortium is also being considered.
For more on this story, see The Sentinel and www.thisisstaffordshire.co.uk tomorrow
5 Comments
by NEILingdown, newcastle
Monday, February 02 2009, 5:45PM
“I think they should have stepped in before now, or is it another case of sinking ship syndrome?.”
by Julie, Potteries
Monday, February 02 2009, 1:40PM
“Well just listened to the broadcast & as much as I hope they will achieve this I don't hold much hope if no bid has been put in yet as investment is still being sought.
Get ready for occupying the visitor centre like Waterford - oh hang on that's why they put gates up on the Barlaston entrance isn't it just in case !”
by Liz Windsor, Stoke
Monday, February 02 2009, 1:20PM
“Good Luck to them. I'm sure locals will be keen to see the quality and integrity of the Wedgwood brand preserved, and to continue to produce superb and much-desired items for the world market.”
by david, Staffordshire table top
Monday, February 02 2009, 12:50PM
“Ok sounds nice just what do these Wedgwood lads know about the ceramic industry ? . I hope its a reality and not a false dawn . Its been a long month of fear and worry for us Wedgwood workers people are starting to crack and hope is fading we need real jobs to stay here in Staffordshire”
by Julie, Potteries
Monday, February 02 2009, 12:06PM
“Good luck - hope you succeed and keep this pottery going. Please don't let the brand name go to Indonesia as that will be the end. It seems the same will happen to Waterford if KPS Capital succeed in their bid for Waterford Wedgwood group.”