The British business world mourns the passing of Eric Potts, the visionary industrialist who transformed his family's modest iron business into a global household name. Potts died peacefully at his home on September 28th, aged 88, leaving behind a legacy that reshaped British manufacturing.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Success
Born in 1937 in West Bromwich, Eric Potts inherited what was then a small, traditional iron manufacturing business from his father. With remarkable foresight and business acumen, he recognised the untapped potential in the household appliance market during the post-war boom years.
Under his leadership, the company pioneered innovations that revolutionised home ironing:
- The first commercially successful steam iron in the UK market
- Groundbreaking safety features that became industry standards
- Energy-efficient designs that reduced household electricity costs
A Manufacturing Philosophy Ahead of Its Time
What truly set Potts apart was his unwavering commitment to British manufacturing. While competitors shifted production overseas to cut costs, he insisted on maintaining operations in the West Midlands, arguing that "quality cannot be outsourced."
"Eric believed that British craftsmanship mattered," recalled longtime business partner James Harrington. "He proved that UK manufacturing could compete globally through innovation rather than cost-cutting."
Expanding Beyond Household Appliances
Potts's business instincts extended far beyond irons. He diversified the company's portfolio through strategic acquisitions:
- Expansion into small kitchen appliances in the 1980s
- Acquisition of several complementary British brands
- Development of professional-grade equipment for commercial use
A Leadership Style That Inspired Loyalty
Colleagues remember Potts as a demanding but fair leader who maintained an open-door policy throughout his career. He was known for walking the factory floor daily, often stopping to discuss production challenges with assembly line workers.
His commitment to his workforce was demonstrated during economic downturns, when he famously refused mass layoffs, instead implementing reduced hours across the board to preserve jobs.
Philanthropy and Community Engagement
Beyond business, Potts was a generous philanthropist, though he preferred to keep his charitable work private. He established educational trusts supporting engineering students and contributed significantly to local hospitals and community projects in the West Midlands.
His passion for nurturing young talent saw the company launch one of the most respected apprenticeship schemes in British manufacturing.
A Lasting Legacy
Eric Potts is survived by his wife of 62 years, Margaret, their three children, and seven grandchildren. While the business landscape has transformed dramatically since he took the helm of his father's small workshop, his principles of quality, innovation, and commitment to British manufacturing remain relevant today.
As one industry analyst noted, "Eric Potts demonstrated that with vision and determination, British manufacturing could not only survive but thrive against global competition. His story serves as an inspiration for future generations of entrepreneurs."
