Crystal Business Goes Up For Sale

Royal Brierley Crystal, based in Stourbridge, is to be sold off after 222 years as a family owned business. A buyer is being sought and it is expected that both Dartington Crystal and Stuart Crystal will show an interest inthe company. Established in 1776, increased competition from foreing companies has meant that Royal Brierley has lost out. David and Simon Williams-Thomas currently own 90% of the shares in the company but according to MD, Graham Webster-Gardiner, none of the family's children want to take on the business, which will require substantial further investment if it is to successfully compete in the marketplace. (whole item)