Thursday, 28 October 2010

Emma Bridgewater: Celebrating 25 Years. By Josie La Torre

Emma Bridgewater is the infamous pottery designer, best known for her quirky and cute designs found on teapots, mugs, cups, cuttlery and many other household items.
This year, Emma Bridgewater celebrates 25 years in the business. Her outlet store and factory is one of the main attractions found in Stoke- On- Trent and is located along Caldon Canal.

Myself, Hilary and Jess came across the factory whilst walking along the grim canal. It was exciting to discover the factory as i had researched it before coming to Stoke. We had spent an hour or so walking down the depressing canal and the sights around us weren't very appealing as all we could see was desolate land and industrial areas. However, discovering the factory sparked inspirational enthusiasm.

The factory was full of pretty, delicate potteries. They all followed Bridgewater's infamous designs of spots, stars, words and even union jack themed products.

The factory had a well structured layout consisting of a gift shop, cafe, display etc. We initially walked into the 'firsts' gift shop. This is a gift shop full of original Bridgewater products, all tested and approved ready to sell at retail price. However, as we walked throughout the factory we soon came to the 'seconds' gift shop. If a product has so much as a scratch on it, it ends up in this large warehouse reduced to an outlet price ready to sell.

The factory has pretty displays layed out throughout the different rooms. All displays are set out perfectly and you couldn't help but admire the idyllic view and appreciate the creative designs.

Everything in the factory is for sale whether it be a first or a second product. All products were lovely to look at and there were lots of different designs to take in.

The 'seconds' gift shop is full of worthy products still but at cheaper prices!

The Factory fits in nicely with the area of Stoke- on- Trent as it conforms with the ceramic appeal Stoke prides itself on. The Emma Bridgewater Factory takes a fresh, funky twist on ceramics bringing charater and life to Stoke- on- Trent. It's a great attraction for Bridgewater lovers/ fans and also people who love ceramics. 

P.S... They even wrap products for you!

No comments:

Post a Comment