The historic Derbyshire pottery firm Denby has confirmed plans to appoint administrators as it struggles with rising energy prices.
The ceramics company, which dates back more than 200 years to 1809, has said it is a precautionary measure to provide a “period of stability”.
The firm employs hundreds of people and still sells to more than 30 countries across the world including South Korea, North America and China.
Despite a huge period of growth throughout the 2010s and early 2020s, the company says the past three years have “squeezed the business financially” as a result of “escalating costs of employment in the UK”, along with “soaring industrial energy costs”.
The company has though said it has seen an increase in demand for its products in recent months, while its subsidiary company Burgess & Leigh, producing ceramics at the Middleport Pottery in Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, is “going from strength to strength” in the hospitality sector.
The Denby Pottery factory in 1992 Credit: ITV News Central
Despite this, a spokesperson said: “While Denby has explored a range of options, it has not yet been able to secure a strategic investment partner aligned with the long-term vision and values of its historic British brands much loved by their large global fan base.
“The search for a suitable partner will continue whether for the Denby Group as a whole or for the brands individually.
“As a precautionary measure, and to provide a period of stability while these options continue to be assessed, the Denby group of companies in the UK has filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators.
“This step offers short-term protection to allow the business to explore potential funding and restructuring solutions in an orderly manner.
“Denby and Burgess & Leigh are continuing to trade while all options for the future of the companies are being explored. International subsidiaries such as Denby Korea continue to trade as normal at this time.
“The priorities remain supporting employees, customers, suppliers, and retail partners while working with advisers to determine the best possible outcome for all stakeholders.”
Denby has been saved from administration before, in 2009, when it was bought by investment firm Hilco Capital.
Denby exports ceramics to more than 30 countries worldwide. Credit: ITV News Central
The GMB union, which represents workers at Denby Pottery Group, says it is supporting members.
Craig Thomson, GMB Organiser, said: “Denby pottery is a British icon, producing some of the world’s finest ceramics.
“This is a worrying time for workers across Denby. We are working closely with our members and reps on site.
“Britain’s ceramics industry is the envy of the world. We must now see urgent government action on energy prices to support the sector through this time of turbulence”.
In the House of Commons earlier this week the Prime Minister said the Government was in talks with the ceramics industry over potentially extending the supercharger scheme which aims to reduce costs for energy intensive industries.
A Denby worker in the factory in 1992. Credit: ITV News Central
Linsey Farnsworth, Labour MP for Amber Valley, said her focus was on “trying to ensure the stability of this vital local employer and protecting the livelihoods of its workforce”.
“I have already held an urgent meeting with Denby’s leadership to discuss the current situation and determine how I can best support through this process,” she said.
“I have also been in contact with GMB union representatives to ensure that the voices of the employees are heard during this period of uncertainty.
“Having previously raised the specific pressures facing the ceramics sector, particularly industrial energy costs, both in Parliament and directly with ministers, I will continue to advocate for the support Denby needs at a ministerial level.
“I am actively engaged with the Treasury and the Department of Business and Trade. Denby remains a world-class, viable manufacturer that continues to trade and meet demand.
“I am acting as a direct link between the company and the Department for Business and Trade to ensure every possible avenue is explored to secure a positive outcome for Amber Valley.”
Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak dipping pots with staff member Georgia Plinston during a factory visit in 2024. Credit: PA Images
Denby Pottery through the years
1809 – Denby Pottery founded by William Bourne and his son Joseph after they discovered fine clay in Derbyshire.
1830s – The firm became a leader in the pottery industry and started to export globally.
1909 – Denby celebrated its centenary and became a Limited Company in 1916.
1930-40s – During the Second World War, women sustained production in the factory, creating utility items for the war effort.
1950s-1960s – The Bourne family era ended, which led to fresh designs and colourful ceramics in the post-war era.
1989 – The launch of the iconic Imperial Blue range which still remains popular today.
1993 – The Duke of Gloucester formally opened the Denby Pottery Visitor Centre.
2009 – Investment firm Hilco Capital steps in to save Denby from going into administration, securing hundreds of jobs.
2010 – Denby grows its brand, acquiring Burleigh Pottery in Stoke-on-Trent.
2011 – The Princess Royal visited Denby Pottery to mark 200 years of pottery production.
2012 – Denby acquires Poole Pottery in Stoke-on-Trent.
2014 – Hilco Capital puts Denby up for sale.
2015 – Hilco Capital cancels plans to sell, citing continued improvements in growth and performance.
2023 – 2026 – Denby faced with rising costs of employment and energy.
2024 – Prime Minister Rishi Sunak visits the factory in Ripley to meet staff while on the General Election campaign trail.
2026 – Denby files a notice of intention to appoint administrators.
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