Pottery Firm in Stoke-on-Trent Sells Christmas Stock Amid July Heatwave
In Stoke-on-Trent, the spirit of Christmas is alive and well, even in the sweltering heat of July. A large marquee has been set up at the Portmeirion Group's car park, where the iconic Spode Christmas tree collection is being showcased. This initiative marks a return to local production for the collection, which has been a beloved staple since its inception in 1938. Melanie Raftery, head of retail sales and operations, explained that the decision to hold a Christmas sale during a heatwave was inspired by customer feedback, allowing residents to embrace the festive spirit early. The Spode Christmas tree design, created by Harold Holdway, was originally intended for the American market and has since evolved to include a variety of fine dining and gift items. Raftery emphasized the importance of British manufacturing, highlighting the company’s commitment to producing quality products in Stoke-on-Trent. As production ramps up, the company is preparing to ship these cherished items to international markets, ensuring that the heritage and craftsmanship of the Spode brand continue to resonate with customers worldwide. Visitors to the marquee have come from far and wide, eager to add to their Portmeirion collections. Among them is Jayne Ball from Bloxwich, who has been a loyal customer for 25 years. She expressed her excitement about purchasing Christmas dinner services for her family. Local resident Pamela Rushton also joined in the festive shopping, noting the importance of planning ahead in today's economy. Despite the summer heat, she embraced the opportunity to think about Christmas and save money. This unique event not only showcases the enduring appeal of the Spode Christmas tree collection but also reinforces Stoke-on-Trent's rich tradition of pottery and craftsmanship, bringing joy and anticipation for the holiday season ahead.
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