In July of the previous year, I traveled to Stoke-On-Trent to meet with GMB members employed in the ceramics sector in the UK. Accompanied by my colleague and seasoned activist, Sharon Yates, we paid a visit to Dunoon, a renowned cup manufacturer located just outside the city.
Sharon, a veteran in the industry with six generations of family history in the pottery trade, is part of the workforce that includes over 20,000 individuals in the British pottery sector, locally known as ‘the Pots’. Working alongside her daughter and granddaughter, Sharon embodies the dedication and significance of pottery to the working-class community in the Midlands and beyond, where livelihoods and financial responsibilities are intertwined.
The pottery industry in Britain plays a vital role in the economy, contributing an estimated £2 billion and supporting 22,000 jobs nationwide. Renowned for its heritage, the ceramic companies and their skilled labor force in Stoke-On-Trent are internationally respected, with many global ceramic industries tracing their roots back to this industrial hub, recognized as the birthplace of modern ceramics.
Despite its historical significance and economic importance, the pottery industry faces challenges in remaining competitive. Major British companies like Wedgewood and Denby have recently announced job cuts, plant closures, or other setbacks, largely attributed to the high production costs driven by the country’s anti-gas stance.
This predicament highlights a uniquely British dilemma, where an industry rich in heritage and potential for growth is at risk of decline due to reluctance in making necessary policy decisions. The current government’s approach towards supporting the pottery sector contrasts with its actions in other industries, raising concerns about the industry’s future sustainability.
With the Labour party now leading the government, there is optimism for decisive action to safeguard British jobs, similar to interventions seen in the steel sector. However, urgent attention is required to address the challenges faced by the pottery industry and prevent a catastrophic outcome that could have long-term repercussions for the nation.
Proposals like the Industry Supercharger scheme offer a viable solution to alleviate the industry’s escalating energy costs, specifically tailored to benefit energy-intensive sectors like pottery production. Yet, the reluctance of government officials to extend this support to ceramics raises questions about their commitment to preserving a sector that is crucial to the livelihoods of thousands of working-class individuals.
Failure to act decisively may result in a severe blow to the industry, leading to widespread ramifications that could exacerbate existing societal divisions and economic challenges. The time is ripe for the government to take proactive steps to safeguard the future of the pottery industry and uphold its importance in sustaining both the economy and the working-class communities it serves.