In July of the previous year, I had the opportunity to meet with GMB members employed in the ceramics sector of the United Kingdom while in Stoke-On-Trent. Accompanied by my close associate and seasoned activist Sharon Yates, we paid a visit to the renowned cup producer, Dunoon, located in Walton just outside the city.
Sharon, a veteran with six generations immersed in the pottery industry, is among the 20,000 dedicated individuals who contribute to Britain’s pottery sector, fondly referred to by locals as ‘the Pots’. With a deep-rooted connection to the industry, Sharon, along with her daughter and granddaughter, understands the significance of being part of the pottery tradition and the industry’s importance to the working-class populace in the Midlands and beyond. These hardworking individuals, like Sharon, have families to support and financial obligations to meet.
The pottery industry in Britain plays a vital role in the economy, contributing an estimated £2 billion and supporting 22,000 jobs nationwide. British ceramic companies and their skilled workforce are highly esteemed globally, with Stoke-On-Trent being recognized as the birthplace of modern industrial ceramics, influencing major ceramic industries worldwide.
Despite its historical significance and economic impact, the pottery industry is facing challenges in maintaining its viability. Several prominent companies, including iconic British brands like Wedgewood and Denby, have recently announced job cuts, plant closures, or other adverse measures. The root cause of this struggle lies in the high production costs attributed to the UK’s stance on gas consumption.
This predicament is not just an industry issue but a distinctly British problem. It represents a missed opportunity to nurture an industry with immense potential and future relevance, which is being neglected due to a reluctance to make bold policy decisions.
With a new administration in place, there is optimism for proactive intervention. The government’s Industry Supercharger scheme offers a solution to alleviate the escalating energy expenses for energy-intensive sectors like ceramics. However, there is a notable reluctance to extend this beneficial scheme to the ceramics industry, a move that could address the concerns of companies, industry associations, and labor unions alike.
The government’s inaction in this critical juncture risks being viewed as a failure to safeguard an industry that supports tens of thousands of working-class individuals. By seizing this opportunity to support the pottery industry, the government can avert a looming disaster that could have far-reaching repercussions for the country’s future. Failure to act decisively may lead to increased division, alienation, and further challenges for all stakeholders involved in the industry.