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# Concern for jobs as owner unveils plan to close kiln at Armitage Shanks
- URL: https://lichfieldlive.co.uk/concern-for-jobs-as-owner-unveils-plan-to-close-kiln-at-armitage-shanks/
- Published: 2025-08-21T16:52:04.000Z
- Updated: 2025-08-21T16:52:27.000Z
- Description: Jobs could be at risk after plans were unveiled to close a large kiln at Armitage Shanks.
- Author: Lichfield Live
- Tags: Armitage, Business, Politics, #wp, #wp-post, #Import 2026-07-22 18:45, News

JOBS could be at risk after plans were unveiled to close a large kiln at Armitage Shanks.

Owner the Villeroy and Boch Group said its plan for the Rugeley site is part of a proposal to enhance long-term business competitiveness and growth.

Around 100 workers could be impacted by the move.

Lichfield MP Dave Robertson said:

> “I am concerned about these proposals and the potential impact on the livelihoods of dozens of my constituents.  
>  
> “Ceramics production in Armitage Shanks is not just livelihoods, it’s part of the heritage of our area.  
>  
> “It will undoubtedly be a very difficult time for a lot of people, but I remain committed to working with the company and trade union representatives to safeguard ceramics production in Armitage and to support as many livelihoods as possible.”/”

Villeroy and Boch Group said the plans were part of a wider evaluation of the company’s global manufacturing footprint.

Lisa Whitfield, Villeroy and Boch Group’s UK managing director, said:

> “This is an incredibly difficult announcement to make.  
>  
> “We recognise the impact this proposal will have on our employees, their families and the community – and we are grateful for the dedication and hard work of our site manufacturing team.”

Villeroy and Boch will now enter a minimum formal 45-day collective consultation period with the trade unions and employee representatives in Armitage.

Justine Jones, from the GMB Union, said:

> “This closure is bad for business and bad for Staffordshire.  
>  
> “We are on the verge of a house building revolution in this country, demand for UK manufactured sanitary goods could be at record highs.  
>  
> “Our ceramics firms are once again feeling the pinch of sky-high energy costs and our union will not stand by and let workers pay the price.”