District councillor Andrew Moulding says they will do all they can to assist the company
A LEADING East Devon councillor has reacted to news that one of the district’s oldest and most respected employers – Axminster Carpets – is proposing to appoint administrators.
The world famous company, formed in 1755, announced today (Wednesday, February 20) that it is in financial difficulties.
Councillor Andrew Moulding, deputy leader of East Devon District Council, and also Mayor of Axminster, was commenting on the revelation that one of East Devon’s biggest employers, with around 400 workers, is in trouble. He said: “This is extremely sad and troubling news from so many standpoints.
“As an Axminster councillor I am terribly disappointed that a company that has taken the name of our historic town into thousands of homes and businesses all over the world should have succumbed to the economic ills that beset so many companies during these difficult global trading conditions.
“As Mayor, I am aware of the effect this will have on Axminster as a town and a community, and the impact on the individuals and families who have been such loyal and long-standing employees of this family business. I also feel for the Dutfield family, who have been such good employers and are victims of a global recession.
“I am desperately sorry for the hard-working employees of the company, who now find their employment under threat. EDDC wants to see a thriving economy in East Devon and we will do anything we can do assist the company in these difficult times.
“Of course, we should not lose heart. The company is intending to appoint administrators and that means there is good reason to hope that it can be saved and continue trading, albeit in a different format, into the future. The next few days and weeks will be crucial and whilst I sympathise with the current plight of the employees and directors, I remain optimistic that something can be salvaged to ensure that this iconic name, so synonymous with quality and resilience, continues for many years to come.”
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