Morris & James, the renowned Matakana ceramics business, is shutting down after 47 years, with the current economic downturn identified as a major reason for its closure.
Established in 1977 by Anthony Morris and Sue James, the pottery business has created lasting pieces that have adorned homes and gardens nationwide, each handcrafted at their Matakana, North Auckland headquarters.
“This decision has not come easily. After exploring a number of options (including selling the business), the management team has made the difficult and heartfelt decision to bring this chapter to a close,” the business said in its statement.
Kieran Rice, who became one of the owners when the business changed hands in 2009, now serves as the managing director of Morris & James Matakana.
“It was very, very hard and quite sad… it was a very difficult day when we talked to the staff about it,” Kieran Rice said.
“People are supportive. We’ve got great customers and great staff, and they sort of understand the situation and say we’ve been a cornerstone of Matakana tourism for a long time.”
Rice said he has never faced more challenging times running a business, as most shoppers have cut back on spending.
“It’s definitely been difficult, and these are discretionary spends, so you know people have priorities.
“People still support us and buy our stuff. But it’s just that little bit harder than it has been in the past.”
Reduced spending, rising costs, and the necessity to upgrade equipment have all contributed to the company’s decision to close.
“We’re at the stage now where we need to start thinking about investing in new kilns or upgrading kilns… and those are big investment decisions with long paybacks.
While there’s no set closure date yet, the team plans to keep operating until all remaining clay has been used up.
Rice said the company will likely continue producing for about another two months, with manufacturing expected to continue for approximately three months until all glazing is completed. He is also hoping that an investor might come forward with the possibility of saving the business during that period.
Once the business ceases operations, it is expected to vacate its current site, with the owners aiming to transform the space for creative purposes.