Axminster, one of the biggest names in carpets, goes into administration
As someone with a track record in rural economic development and deep attachment to Devon I find this a really sad story. It makes me think of other iconic rural names such as the Hawes Creamery where Wensleydale Cheese is made and the Whitby Smokehouse which I featured a few weeks ago where the adjoining cliff was collapsing gradually onto its roof! Both of these examples are still bearing up inspite of the recession thank goodness. This story, which has significant implications for the rural economy in the area with the potential loss of 400 well paid jobs tells us:
“All the company’s 400 manufacturing and office staff are based in the Devon town of Axminster, where Thomas Whitty began making carpets in 1755.
The original Axminster carpet was laid in Brighton Pavilion as well as bought by King George III and Queen Charlotte, who visited the factory. After a fire halted production, carpet manufacturing did not return to the town until 1937.
A statement from Axminster today confirmed the notice of intention to appoint Duff & Phelps as administrators.
It said: “The notice was filed in order to provide the company and its creditors with a moratorium period during which the various rescue options being explored can continue.”