Denby Pottery, the historic Derbyshire-based ceramics firm, has filed a notice of intent to appoint administrators, putting over 500 jobs at risk. The company, which has been operating for 217 years, cited rising energy and employment costs as the primary reasons for its financial difficulties.
The move is described as a “precautionary measure” while the company seeks fresh investment. Denby boss Sebastian Lazell told the BBC he was “trying to move heaven and earth” to save the business but admitted there may not “be a happy ending”. The company has filed an extension to the administration process to allow more time to explore options.
Denby’s annual losses grew from £3.4 million to £4.6 million in 2024, with the company citing “a lack of consumer confidence in all major markets”. Its energy costs have more than doubled from £1.25 million before 2022 to between £2.5 million and £3 million, driven by its three large gas-fired kilns that operate 24/7.
Gary Smith, general secretary of the GMB union, warned that the UK’s ceramics industry is “at a crossroads” and accused the government of “sitting on its hands”. He called for support similar to that provided to the steel industry, noting that the sector contributes £2 billion to the economy and supports 22,000 jobs.
Denby supplies products to retailers including John Lewis, Lakeland and Dunelm. The company’s heritage and “made in England” branding have been central to its identity, but rising costs and reduced demand have pushed it to the brink.
