After more than 45 years in the premium and luxury homeware sector, the industry bids farewell to one of its true titans.
Wayne Nutbeen, former global CEO of Royal Doulton plc and founder of The English Ladies Co brand, is finally hanging up his boots to enjoy a well-earned retirement. From Lalique and Baccarat to Wedgwood and Royal Doulton, Wayne helped shape the sector across every major market around the world.
For the last 15 years, he has headed up Camal Enterprises – now known as The English Ceramics Company – and has guided the global ceramic collectables market through The English Ladies Co brand and licensed partnerships with Disney, Thelma Madine, and Paddington. Under his guidance, the brand has become synonymous with craftsmanship, heritage, and refined giftware.
The English Ladies Co brand has been supported by a dedicated team of industry experts, including Malini (Mal) Pashley (Design), Dan Smith (Master Painter), Marg Rowley (Sales & Customer Service) and Linda Garner (Accounts).
Collectively, this small but mighty team represents over 200 years of industry experience, with backgrounds spanning brands such as Minton, Royal Albert, Royal Crown Derby, Royal Worcester, and Spode.
As time has passed and colleagues have moved into retirement, Mal became the last remaining member of the original team and had begun preparing for the possibility that the business might eventually come to an end.
However, Bayston Associates has stepped forward to partner with Mal, ensuring that The English Ladies Co brand not only continues but evolves. Mal said that together, they aim to build on Wayne’s legacy and “maintain an oasis of premium giftware in an increasingly meretricious market”.
She added: “I’m really excited about the next chapter of The English Ladies Co brand as we navigate Wayne’s transition from the business and realise the potential he helped create. As part of this exciting new era, our aim remains the same: to continue offering the high-quality figurines we all know and love. Alongside this, we’ll be developing some wonderful new ranges that stay true to our tradition of fine art and design. We all wish Wayne the very best for a well-deserved retirement.”
Call: 01782 344900
Email: sales@english-ceramics.com | hello@englishladiesco.com
Visit: www.englishladiesco.com
