Red Wing Pottery Finds a Buyer

RED WING (AP) - Red Wing Pottery, an institution in the Mississippi River town for 150 years, has found a buyer.

Red Wing Stoneware Company expects to close on a deal Friday to purchase Red Wing Pottery.

Last month, the owner of Red Wing Pottery said competition from bigger retailers and foreign manufacturers had taken its toll and the store would have to close by the end of the year if they didn't find a buyer.

The company operates a 32,000 square foot facility that's popular with tourists.

The business got its start by selling farmers salt-glaze storage crocks in the 1860's.

The new owners plan to take a few months to re-brand the pottery store before reopening early next year.