The Sentinel newspaper reports that with the acquisition of Royal Crown Derby announced, Steelite has pledged to retain the 200-person workforce of Royal Crown Derby and production will remain in the city , continuing a tradition that dates back to 1750. It is the impending retirement of chief executive Hugh Gibson that prompted the sale of the business to Steelite International.
Steelite, which manufactures and sells tableware to hotels and restaurants, has a turnover of £66m, around nine times that of Royal Crown Derby.
There are historic links between the two businesses, both having formerly been part of the Royal Doulton Group. Royal Crown Derby left the group in 2000, having been subject to a buyout led by Mr Gibson.
Mr Gibson said: “After careful consideration I have decided it is time for me to retire, and know I am leaving Royal Crown Derby in the very safest hands. It has been a privilege to be the custodian of Royal Crown Derby for so many years and I am certain it will thrive and maintain its special place in the heart of the nation under Steelite International’s stewardship.”
