Glass-maker leaves job to protect employees' positions.

The CEO of Cumbria Crystal has resigned to protect jobs as soaring energy costs threaten the companys operations. Despite halving production, the firm remains committed to preserving its skilled workforce and the critically endangered craft of cut crystal glass-making.

The chief executive of Cumbria Crystal, a company based in Ulverston recognized for producing crystal glasses featured in James Bond films, has stepped down from his position to secure the employment of the company's staff. Chris Blade, who had been leading the firm, cited rising energy costs as the primary factor in his decision to resign, aiming to prevent layoffs and maintain workforce stability.

Impact of Rising Energy Costs

Since November 2024, Cumbria Crystal has experienced a substantial increase in its monthly gas expenses, rising from around £8,000 to more than £40,000. This escalation has placed severe financial pressure on the company, which specializes in traditional cut crystal glass production. Cut crystal glass-making was recently added to the Heritage Crafts charity’s list of critically endangered skills in the United Kingdom. Blade highlighted the cultural significance of this craft, noting that only a limited number of skilled cutters remain in the country, making workforce reductions an unsustainable option.

Operational Challenges and Decline in Production

The period following the initial energy price hike in 2024 has been especially difficult for Cumbria Crystal. At that time, the company had to deactivate one of its two primary furnaces, which led to the temporary dismissal of five employees from its 25-person workforce. This resulted in a production decline of approximately 40%. In January, the company attempted to restore full production by reactivating the furnace. However, a recent surge in energy prices forced the second furnace to be switched off again, further restricting production capacity.

CEO's Decision to Prioritize Employees

To ease the financial burden on the company, Blade chose to resign ahead of schedule, directing his salary towards supporting the retention of employees. Currently, Cumbria Crystal is operating at roughly 50% of its usual production capacity, but promising contracts are underway. Blade emphasized the importance of maintaining operations despite the financial challenges, stating the necessity to survive ongoing pressures.

Heritage Crafts and Critically Endangered Skills

The Red List of Endangered Crafts, established in 2017, identifies traditional skills at risk of disappearing in the UK. In its latest update, twelve additional crafts, including cut crystal glass-making, quilting in a frame, and rattan furniture production, were classified as critically endangered. Blade noted that although staff previously faced reduced working hours and salaries, all employees are now working full hours. He affirmed that future reductions should not be imposed: "Staff should not have to bear short hours in the future."

Current Status

Despite the financial challenges and the reduction in production capacity, Cumbria Crystal continues to operate and fulfill contracts. The company remains committed to preserving its skilled workforce and sustaining the craft of cut crystal glass-making, a practice now recognized as critically endangered in the UK.

Sources:

• BBC News
• The Guardian
• Sky News
• Bond glass-maker quits role to save staff jobs