If Josiah Wedgwood knew his legacy was to be smashed up and shipped overseas he would be spinning in his grave
GMB, the union for the potteries, has branded a new £2 coin celebrating Wedgwood’s heritage as a ‘sick joke’ after the company announced it is slashing almost 150 jobs.
The new coin from the Royal Mint celebrates the 260th anniversary of the founding of the company and will be unveiled at Wedgwood’s Barlaston factory tomorrow.
The company was founded by Josiah Wedgwood in Stoke back in 1759.
But last month Fiskars Group, who now owns the brand, announced they are cutting up to 145 jobs as they move the majority of production overseas.
Amanda Gearing, GMB Senior Organiser said
"For Fiskars to bask in the glory of Wedgwood’s proud Barlaston history while slashing local jobs overseas is a sick joke.
“If Josiah Wedgwood knew his legacy was to be smashed up and shipped overseas he would be spinning in his grave.
“Our members are now desperately worried about their futures – how they will pay their rent, feed their families and put clothes on their backs.
"GMB will continue to demand the reassurances Wedgwood's proud workforce need and deserve.”
