Glass firm closes site after 50 years

Mar 7 2008 by andrew Davies, Vale Advertiser

A MANUFACTURING giant will close its doors next month after more than 50 years in St Asaph.

Denbighshire County Council has expressed disappointment that Pilkington’s Special Glass is to cease manufacturing in April, with up to 20 jobs being lost in the process. Over 80 workers have already been made redundant in the last 12 months.

The company says it will attempt to find a purchaser for the remaining disc business at St Asaph. Failing that it intends to close.

Councillor Gareth Rowlands, cabinet lead member for regeneration, said: “We regret the company’s decision as this marks the end of Pilkington’s long association with St Asaph.

“However, the Opto-electronic industry in the region has grown on the back of the company’s presence and this bodes well for the future of the hi-tech industry offering skilled jobs in the area.

“The council will work with Pilkington and any potential buyer regarding the future development of the site and will provide as much assistance as possible over the coming weeks.”

PSG was founded in 1957 and has sales offices in Delhi and Tokyo, China and in the US.

Over 85% of St Asaph’s output is exported, and at one time the manufacturer had an annual output of over a million kilos, making it one of the world’s largest suppliers.

The Visitor contacted Pilkington’s yesterday (Tuesday). David Roycroft, Head of Corporate Affairs and Investor Relations, had this to say.

“Negotiations are currently underway with a local St Asaph businessman with regards to acquiring the premises,” he said.

“However, should those negotiations fail and no other buyer comes in, then the site will close on April 30.”

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