One of the oldest family-run businesses in Bridgend, Ewenny Pottery, has secured some substantial contracts thanks to financial support from Bridgend County Borough Council’s Economic Development Unit.
The pottery, which was established in 1610, received funding through the Local Investment Fund in order to purchase an additional kiln, potter’s wheel and new promotional literature.
Caitlin Jenkins said: “The funding has helped us purchase essential equipment and has enabled us to process orders quickly, resulting in a much more streamlined production process. As a result, we have secured some large contracts which in the past we would have had to turn down.”
“We have received excellent advice and support from the Economic Development Unit in Bridgend and Flexible Support for Business during the application process and would definitely recommend that other local businesses apply.”
The pottery has been in the Jenkins family for over eight generations and is currently run by Alun, Jayne and Caitlin Jenkins. This year the business celebrates its 400th anniversary, making its Wales’ oldest working pottery.
Caitlin added: “My family has been at the heart of this business for many generations and we intend to carry on the tradition with future members of Jenkins family for many years to come.”
The business creates unique hand-thrown glazed earthenware pottery, producing pieces for shops as well as bespoke commission designs for collectors, clubs & societies, hotels, the hospitality industry, Cadw and the National Museum of Wales at St Fagans. Each piece is thrown and decorated by hand ensuring no two pieces are alike.
