In brief: JP Restaurants is marking 80 years since its founding as Jersey Pottery in 1946. The group, which now operates venues including Jersey Crab Shack, Oyster Box and Beresford House, is inviting former staff and customers to share memories as part of the celebrations.
From clay to cuisine: eight decades in the making
There are not many businesses that can trace their roots back to the years immediately after the Second World War, but JP Restaurants is one of them. Founded in 1946 as Jersey Pottery, the company welcomed generations of islanders and visitors, building a reputation rooted in craftsmanship and community. Over the decades, hospitality gradually took centre stage, and what began with pottery and ceramics evolved into one of Jersey’s most recognisable restaurant and café groups.
Bailiwick Express reports that managing director Robert Jones described the 80-year mark as “a remarkable milestone” that “gives us a wonderful opportunity to reflect on how far we’ve come.” He added: “From our beginnings at Jersey Pottery to the restaurants and cafés we operate today, our story has always been about bringing people together and creating places where memories are made.”
Where they are now
Today, JP Restaurants operates a collection of venues that have become firmly embedded in island life. Jersey Crab Shack and Oyster Box, both at St Brelade’s Bay, are among its established names, while Beresford House in St Helier represents the group’s latest venture and, in Mr Jones’s words, “an exciting new chapter.”
Mr Jones was generous in acknowledging those who helped build the business: “We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has been part of our journey over the decades, including our past and present teams, our loyal customers and our many partners across the island. Their contribution has helped shape the business we are today.”
How to get involved
The anniversary will be marked with a celebration at Beresford House on 30 November. Beyond that event, the group is reaching out to anyone with a connection to Jersey Pottery or JP Restaurants, whether a former employee, a regular diner or simply someone with a fond memory of the old pottery shop. People are encouraged to share photographs, stories and memories by emailing info@jprestaurants.com, with submissions potentially featured on the company’s social media channels and website.
As an added incentive, five gift cards worth £80 each will be awarded for the group’s favourite submissions. It is a neat touch: 80 years, £80 prizes, and a chance for the island to contribute to its own hospitality history.
Source: Bailiwick Express
