An influx of cheap mass manufactured glass from Eastern Europe has creared a difficult year for Dartington Crystal. The company is one of the UK“s leading brands of crystal and the only major brand t…
An influx of cheap mass manufactured glass from Eastern Europe has creared a difficult year for Dartington Crystal. The company is one of the UK“s leading brands of crystal and the only major brand to retain a significant manufacturing base in the UK. The company“s glass-making factory in Torrington, Devon has been in production since 1967 producing hand-made crystal tableware and gifts but the company was forced to announce in March that it was cutting 49 jobs. The company said the reductions formed part of a “programme of restructuring designed to improve competitiveness in a market that is under severe pressure from Eastern european and Far Eastern imports.” The job cuts began to take effect from 1 May as a combination of natural wastage and compulsory redundancies. But there are signs that things are set to improve and Dartington is looking at various ways to remain competitive in the marketplace. Dartington“s new world range of glasses have proved successful, the company“s key customers are reporting growth of sales of products to the consumer and the second half of the year is shaping up strongly. The company reports firm listings for its new programmes, the new vase collection, the new cut crystal range, Impressions, and a new line called Designs, frosted glasses with a picture or pattern, the company has also introduced a new packaging concept called Pick & Go. The company reported positive feedback from its second product preview in London in May and 1 September will see the launch of a new corporate identity and new packaging aimed at developing and refining the Dartington brand. Dartington“s new website – www.dartingtoncrystal.co.uk – will be completed by September and there are plans to build on the existing relationship with the Dartington Trust.