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A producer of clerical robes and church furnishings that has been in existence for 220 years is to shut its doorways after a troublesome monetary interval.
Wippell & Co opened in Devon in 1789 and is understood for its handmade cassocks, vestments and altar frontals.
In the UK it has been a longstanding provider to the Anglican Church, Church of Scotland, United Reform Church, Episcopal Church and Methodist Church, however prospects included denominations primarily based within the US, Australia, Sweden and different nations as effectively.
The firm additionally makes educational robes and mortarboards.
It is to shut by the top of the yr after failing to get better from a downturn in enterprise throughout the pandemic when the corporate stated it had misplaced a whole lot of hundreds of kilos with the extended suspension of college commencement ceremonies and different face-to-face occasions.
The firm has additionally struggled to compete with cheaper machine-made alternate options from abroad.
Robin Richardson, Chairman and Director, stated: “It’s an extremely unhappy day and I need to pay tribute to all my colleagues. We will likely be supporting everybody by means of this troublesome interval.
“Most folks, together with extremely expert embroiderers, seamstresses and cutters, have labored right here for many years, with many approaching retirement age. I need to personally acknowledge everybody’s dedication and craftsmanship.
“We are persevering with to commerce, finishing and taking orders within the coming months, together with all commitments to servicing and fulfilling all graduations for 2023 and I’d reassure prospects that our excessive requirements will likely be maintained all through this time.”
Christine Morrish, Director, stated: “The firm has an unimaginable heritage, skilful staff and constant prospects. Sadly, instances have modified.
“It has been a troublesome few years due to the pandemic, and is doubtless a way more aggressive market, with decrease high quality machine-made clothes from abroad now dominating.
“Over the approaching months, we’ll proceed to assist staff and stay absolutely dedicated to our prospects, persevering with to obtain and fulfil orders, throughout this time.”
