Royal Brierley Crystal is to sell off the Honeybourne Museum, its company archive, in an attempt to raise funds & restore the company's finances. Although the decision was described by chairman, David Williams-Thomas as sad, it is seen as necessary to boost the company's funds after six loss-making years. Sotherbys is to handle the sale which is expected to raise up to £500,000, attracting interest from around the world. The proceeds will be used to develop new products and to expand the visitor centre. Certain items will be kept and records preserved on microfilm so that reproductions can be made if necessary. The museum is on the factory site and has previously only been open to the public by special invitation. MD Graham Webster-Gardiner, said the decision was not a negative one and that he aimed to "get the company back in profit by 1999". (whole item)
