Fenton Farewell Premature
Extra Business after News of Closing Keeps Glassmaker Going
A flood of last minute orders from loyal dealers and collectors keeps factory doors open a little longer.
Reprieve!
Last month, Fenton Art Glass announced that they would be closing the doors of the 102 year old company for good in October. Loyal Fenton fans rallied, and sent a powerful message via their wallets for management to reconsider. Consequently, sales in September were strong enough to buy the factory another month; in fact, the remaining 125 employees worked overtime to meet production demands.
Fenton, known for handcrafted, handpainted art glass is one of the last remaining entities in what once was a flourishing glass industry in West Virginia. Innovation and savvy marketing kept the company afloat in the face of depression and wartimes, but growing competition from overseas, rising fuel costs, and the shrinking discretionary income of their customers have finally taken their toll.
Management had announced that the doors would close for good in September, but strong sales will keep them going at least through November. Citing “a very strong response” from its 4,000 dealers, company President George Fenton said, “We’re actually working overtime this week.” At present, there is no specific closing date. Factory tours are still being conducted, and the gift shop remains open.
The 102 year old company is still run by the Fenton family who are actively seeking solutions to avoid closure. “We are looking at all kinds of option,” George Fenton said. “But there have been no decisions made, and so far, no feasible go-forward solutions. We hope we’ll be able to find a way to continue to make glass here.” News of the possible closing sparked orders for new Fenton, and brought a flurry of activity on the secondary market. An auction of Fenton pieces from the estate of Frank M. Fenton, son of Fenton co-founder Frank L. Fenton brought record prices.
Rumors Drive up Prices
Rumors of shut down were flying at the August auction of part of the Frank M. Fenton collection. The auction, conducted by longtime collector, auctioneer, and Fenton family friend, Randy Clark, set records. Prices went well beyond expectations for the unusual, and above book value for the ordinary. “Just about everybody there knew Frank and wanted something to remember him by,” Clark said. “And I’m sure the rumors about what was happening at the factory did have an effect.” The sale took place immediately after the wrap up of the annual conventions of both the National Fenton Glass Collectors Society and the Fenton Art Glass Collectors of Americawhere George Fenton himself announced that the factory would close, so interest was strong, and made stronger by internet bidding activity. Fully 22% of the sales were to internet bidders.
SOURCE: Antique Week National Section Oct 8,2007
