New owners propose to develop tourism potential of pottery firm

PLANS are in place for the development of a tourist attraction in east Cork that is expected to create up to 25 jobs.

Following the acquisition of Stephen Pearce pottery by Jack O’Patsy, the new owners are keen to develop the pottery business, along with adding extra attractions at its base in Shanagarry.

They hope to grow turnover to €2 million in the next three years.

The new owners have an option to purchase 30 acres of land in the area and they are hoping in time todevelop this as a tourist destination.

Plans include the development of eco-homes for guests, plus a garden centre.

Jack O’Patsy has also appointed Cork Airport board member Alf Smiddy as non-executive chairman.

Contracts were finalised recently between the Jack O’Patsy owners and KPMG, the receiver appointed to the Stephen Pearce franchise in February.

Youghal-based pottery firm Jack O’Patsy will take over the business, including one of its properties, while the Kilkenny Group will take over the 16,000sq ft Emporium and café in Shanagarry.

Pat Collins of Jack O’Patsy said: “We believe that this strategic alliance between our company and the Kilkenny Group will give us both national and international exposure.”

The Stephen Pearce operation has been closed since November 6 when it is understood the rights to the brand were withdrawn from the receiver KPMG.

The pottery brand had been in trouble since November 2008 when the manufacturing operation in Shanagarry closed with immediate effect, resulting in the loss of 25 jobs.

The Jack O’Patsy pottery operation had also closed in 2003, having at one stage employed up to 60 people from its Youghal premises, but it resumed operations in October last year.

The new store eventually hopes to offer pottery classes, while a restaurant is also part of the premises.

The Kilkenny Group is owned by the O’Gorman family, one of Cork’s best-known business families.