Save Wedgwood!

Josiah Wedgwood and Sons was founded in 1759 by the "Father of English Pottery" Josiah Wedgwood (1730-1795). Josiah came from a long line of Potters and founded a branch of the family steeped in a tradition of philanthropy, which excelled in art and science and many other fields. Meanwhile Wedgwood became established as a quintessentially English brand known the world over.

In 1986 Wedgwood, in order to thwart the approaches of London International Group – a conglomerate which already owned Royal Worcester Spode, perceived the Waterford Glass Group as a White Knight and merged with them. That year Wedgwood made a profit and Waterford made a loss – a trend that would continue down to the present day which now sees much of the Group fall into Administration.

Now in its 250^th year, we await news of its ultimate fate – American Private Equity firms are circling, seeking the brands and planning to take production overseas. However, members of the Wedgwood Family, determined to keep the Wedgwood going as a Staffordshire company are, according to press reports, seeking funding to do just that, demerge Wedgwood and save it. Three Cheers for them, I held shares in Waterford Wedgwood, now worthless – I would jump at the chance of investing in a reinvigorated Wedgwood company, I wish them well.

John Wedgwood Pound