In a move that has sent ripples through the ceramics industry and the local community alike, the famed Wedgwood factory in Barlaston, Staffordshire, will pause production for 90 days starting September 29, 2025. The decision, announced by parent company Fiskars Group, will see 70 skilled workers placed on temporary leave and the suspension of the factory’s popular tours until early January 2026. The company says the measure is a response to "elevated inventory levels caused by lower consumer demand in some of our key markets," according to a spokesperson quoted by BBC News and multiple regional outlets.
The news comes at a time when the British ceramics sector is already grappling with rising costs, global economic headwinds, and the recent collapse of several local pottery firms. For many in Stoke-on-Trent and beyond, Wedgwood is more than just a factory—it’s a living emblem of the region’s heritage, craftsmanship, and international reputation for fine ceramics. The Barlaston site, in particular, is described by Fiskars as a hub for "high-end and bespoke product, including handcrafted pieces in fine bone china and our signature Jasperware," all brought to life by artisans using techniques pioneered by founder Josiah Wedgwood in the 18th century.
"Barlaston and its community are of key importance to Fiskars Group and Wedgwood," the company stated. "This living tradition reflects our commitment to craftsmanship, the value of Made in England, and Barlaston’s enduring role in our heritage and operations." While the World of Wedgwood factory tours—a major draw for thousands of tourists each year—will be suspended until January 5, 2026, other attractions at the site, including the V&A Wedgwood Collection, will remain open to visitors.
For the 70 workers affected, the shutdown brings a period of uncertainty. While the GMB Union has assured that employees will continue to receive full pay and support during the pause, as reported by BBC News, not all sources have confirmed this detail. Some local outlets, such as Stoke-on-Trent Live, noted that Fiskars had yet to clarify the pay arrangements at the time of announcement, adding to the workers’ anxieties as the holiday season approaches.
The announcement coincides with the ongoing British Ceramics Biennial in Stoke-on-Trent, the UK’s largest showcase of ceramics artistry. The juxtaposition is striking: as artists and enthusiasts flock to the city to celebrate its pottery legacy, one of its most storied manufacturers is forced to hit pause. Tom Hammersley, marketing manager at Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, captured the mood: "Wedgwood has huge global demand in areas including China and Japan. If that demand is slowing, and married with the increasing costs, it is a huge concern." He emphasized that the pause is a "temporary measure," but acknowledged the broader worries about the sector’s future.
Local politicians have responded with a mixture of alarm and reassurance. Gareth Snell, Labour MP for Stoke-on-Trent Central, described the temporary closure as "incredibly worrying," urging the government to provide "real help today" for the ceramics industry. "The name 'Wedgwood' has been famously linked to Stoke-on-Trent since 1759. It's had its ups and downs over the last 266 years," Snell told Nub News. "The support cannot be in some distant future; or the promise of help tomorrow, but real help today. Ministers know what we need, and I had already started speaking to the new Secretary of State for Business & Trade about the work I and other MPs had been doing alongside the GMB and Ceramics UK to support the industry." He added, "My thoughts are with the workers who now face an uncertain future. I'll do whatever I can to support constituents affected by today's news and support the company through this difficult time."
Not all local leaders view the situation with the same level of alarm. Dr. Allison Gardner, Labour MP for Stoke-on-Trent South, sought to reassure constituents, characterizing the shutdown as a "simple response to seasonal fluctuations." She told BBC News, "This is not something to worry about. I will of course keep monitoring the situation and keep in contact with the company and trade unions as I always do." This divergence in tone reflects both the uncertainty and the hope that the historic brand will weather yet another storm.
The context for Wedgwood’s decision is a challenging one. The ceramics sector has been hit hard by rising costs—especially energy bills—and increased competition. This year alone, three other pottery firms in Stoke-on-Trent, including the nearly-200-year-old Royal Stafford, have collapsed, citing unsustainable expenses. Moorcroft, another storied name, was only saved by a purchase from the founder’s grandson. Stoke-on-Trent City Council acknowledged the pressures facing manufacturers: "The fact is global and national pressures—including high energy prices—have made life very difficult for manufacturers," a council spokesperson told BBC News. "Wedgwood is not only an important local heritage brand but an important visitor destination."
Despite the temporary shutdown, Fiskars Group has been keen to emphasize its ongoing commitment to Barlaston and to the traditions that have made Wedgwood a household name. The factory remains a center for "living tradition," where artisans still employ methods developed by Josiah Wedgwood, who was born in Burslem in 1730 and revolutionized English pottery. The company’s statement, repeated across several news outlets, underscores the pride in "the value of Made in England," and the importance of Barlaston’s role in the company’s operations and heritage.
For visitors, the World of Wedgwood experience will be somewhat diminished during the pause, with factory tours suspended but other attractions—including the museum and retail outlets—remaining open. A message on the World of Wedgwood website confirms that tours are "suspended until 5 January," but encourages guests to enjoy other on-site experiences.
As the ceramics sector watches closely, many are left wondering what the future holds for Wedgwood and the wider industry. The pause is, by all accounts, a "short-term measure," but it is emblematic of broader challenges facing British manufacturing—challenges that demand both immediate attention and long-term solutions. The hope, echoed by community leaders and company spokespeople alike, is that the pause will allow Wedgwood to recalibrate and emerge stronger, preserving both jobs and a centuries-old tradition of craftsmanship.
For now, all eyes are on Barlaston, as its workers, artisans, and supporters wait for the kilns to fire up once more in the new year.
