The traditional canteen of silverware was a popular wedding gift for generations but changing habits hit demand
A cutlery set from Newbridge Silverware.
Newbridge Cutlery is to cease production of silver-plated cutlery and tableware at its factory in Newbridge, Co Kildare with operations set to end in April, the company has confirmed.
The decision is set to impact 11 employees and follows a strategic review of what the company described as a loss-making cutlery business. A canteen of Newbridge cutlery was a staple wedding present for generations of Irish couples, but the business said changing dining habits had led to a drop in demand.
The factory will officially cease operations on April 10. The company said the closure does not affect the wider Newbridge Silverware business, which will continue to operate as normal.
This includes the Newbridge Visitor Centre, six standalone retail stores and more than 250 stockists around the country, the company stressed that its jewellery and homeware operations remain unaffected by the decision.
The move comes after several years of falling sales for silver-plated tableware, which the company said reflects changing consumer tastes and dining habits in Irish homes and across the hospitality sector.
The company also pointed to rising costs as a major factor behind the decision. Over the past 12 months the price of silver bullion has risen by about 150pc, making it increasingly difficult to absorb costs without significantly increasing retail prices.
The company said this trend is not unique to Ireland and mirrors a broader, long-term decline in silver cutlery manufacturing across Europe.
Founded in 1934, Newbridge Cutlery Company Ltd began as a local co-operative, using skills developed at the former military barracks in Newbridge to produce silver-plated tableware for the Irish market.
In the 1990s, the business expanded into jewellery and homeware which now operates under the Newbridge Silverware brand and has become the group’s primary focus.
It added that it is committed to supporting affected employees through the consultation process and engaging with staff representatives.
“We have taken the difficult decision to cease operations at our cutlery factory from mid-April,” said Martin Kilduff, the operations director at The Newbridge Cutlery Company.
“We fully understand the impact this decision will have on those craftsmen and women who maintained the tradition of crafting silver plated tableware in Newbridge for generations.”
“We are committed to a meaningful consultation process and to supporting affected employees through clear communication, engagement with their representatives, and access to appropriate supports during this time,” he said.