“2023 is not a year which we will remember fondly,” says CEO.
Abbey England is reducing manufacturing hours and closing the counter at its Walsall warehouse on Fridays in a bid to cut costs.
The wholesaler and saddlery workshop supplier has also changed its prices from 1 January, on average by 12%.
The pricing amendment is made “in the hope of maintaining the margins that are essential for the future trading of Abbey England,” says the company.
Abbey England has been established for 42 years and become well-known as a champion of British manufacturing and craft saddlery.
“2023 is not a year which we will remember fondly,” said CEO Richard Brown.
“During a challenging economic climate, which is affecting businesses at all levels, we have had to make some difficult decisions in order to continue to support our customers, stakeholders and the industry.
“We have already informed all our customers of the reduction in working hours across both our warehouses [in Knutsford and Walsall] as part of our drive to cut costs through the winter months.
“This means that the Walsall counter will be closed every Friday until further notice, and the manufacturing unit is working reduced hours which will result in slower delivery times.”
Reduced manufacturing of some items
Availability of some of the items Abbey manufactures will be reduced, with customers recommended to discuss their requirements with the sales team, added Richard.
“The directors and I are confident that the company, working together with all parties, will weather the storm and, with these changes, we are determined to come through the current adverse trading conditions in a position for Abbey England to emerge a stronger business in 2024 and continue to serve our customers and stakeholders for many years to come.
“We would like to thank all our stakeholders, customers and staff who have supported us over the years and hopefully will continue to do so.”
Richard Brown explains more in a podcast Abbey England: Our Message To You available at https://www.abbeyengland.com/the-abbey-england-podcraft
