Royal Stafford based in the Royal Overhouse Manufactory, one of the oldest pottery factories in Burslem has collapsed into liquidation. The Stoke-on-Trent pottery business employed some 70 people.
The Royal Stafford brand was established in 1845 and the firm described itself as one of the handful of potteries with all production taking place in England.
“This must be a wake-up call for decision makers,” said Colin Griffiths, GMB senior organiser. “The loss of Royal Stafford is a huge blow to workers and the entire community here in Stoke.
“Our city cannot power its kilns with wind and batteries; wishful thinking means spiralling energy costs are now pushing the sector over the edge.
“Meanwhile the illegal importing of foreign…
