‘Soft touch’ strategy led to crystal job losses

I DO not believe the job losses at Waterford Crystal are necessary — they are the result of the ‘soft touch’ strategy favoured by the O’Reilly business school.

After all, the dollar is a wild card for most businesses trading with the US.

Waterford Wedgwood squandered all its reserves to shore up failed acquisitions funded at the expense of company staff.

Investment in the brand through advertising and promotions has not been undertaken at the right level. High brand value companies are not resorting to low-grade strategies.

This issue is bigger than the Shannon stopover. Now where have all the politicians gone?

Tony O’Brien

Earlscourt

Dunmore Road

Waterford