WATERFORD Wedgwood is to increase its stake in the German porcelain makers, Rosenthal, to at least 12.5 per cent. The group currently has a 9.1 per cent stake.

Rosenthal yesterday announced the terms of a rights issue which is part of a series of restructuring measures aimed at turning around its fortunes.

Shareholders are to be offered 300,000 shares at 120 deutschmarks (£46) each from April 14th through to April 28th.

The issue is being guaranteed by Waterford Wedgwood. The group paid £3 million for its 9.1 per cent stake in Rosenthal last month.