Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Jun 9
Denby Pottery Ends 217-Year Production Run as Designer Signs Final Imperial Blue Bowl
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Jun 9

Denby Pottery Ends 217-Year Production Run as Designer Signs Final Imperial Blue Bowl

3 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Jun 9

Summary

  • Richard Eaton signed Denby Pottery’s final Imperial Blue bowl, marking the end of production at the Derbyshire manufacturer founded in 1809.
  • Administrators were appointed on March 31 after Denby said reduced demand, rising labour costs and soaring energy bills had squeezed the business, and no buyer was found despite a #SaveDenby campaign.
  • More than 105,000 people have signed a petition backing the ceramics industry and British manufacturing jobs, putting it over the threshold for possible debate in Parliament.
  • Denby’s overseas units in Korea, the US and China will keep operating, while Burleigh—acquired by Denby in 2010—has been bought by investors and will continue production in Stoke-on-Trent.

Insights

Why was one historic pottery brand saved while its parent company, Denby, was left to shatter?
Was Denby a casualty of flawed energy policy or an outdated business model that was destined to crack?