Denby Pottery has closed all of its remaining stores for the final time today, Saturday August 29, earlier than originally planned. The historic British firm, which has traded for 217 years, shut its flagship Denby Pottery Village in Derbyshire at midday, along with its other stores in Ashford, Portsmouth, Braintree, York, Dalton Park, Castleford and Cheshire Oaks.
Closing-down sale ends early
Earlier this week, Denby announced a major closing-down sale for the bank holiday weekend, with prices from £2 and bundles of four items available for between £6 and £12. The company had originally planned to shut its remaining stores at 4pm on Sunday, August 30.
However, stock sold much faster than predicted. Administrators FRP Advisory confirmed that, following a phenomenal response from the public with much higher footfall and stock selling faster than expected, the stores have closed earlier than planned.
Administration and job losses
Denby entered administration in March 2026 after over 200 years of trading. The firm said at the time that it was filing a notice of intent to appoint administrators following a "period of challenging financial circumstances brought about by soaring costs and low consumer confidence." The Denby Group officially appointed FRP Advisory as administrators on March 31.
The closures will reportedly lead to around 600 jobs being lost.
Brand to continue under new ownership
Founded in 1809 by William Bourne, Denby has operated from the same site in the Derbyshire village of Denby throughout its history and became renowned for its stoneware made using locally sourced Derbyshire clay. The company became best known for its Imperial Blue collection, one of its most recognisable tableware ranges.
A few days ago, it was revealed that the Denby Pottery brand "will continue under new ownership." A buyer has been found though they have yet to be named.
Tony Wright, joint administrator of the Denby group of companies and partner at FRP, said earlier this week: "It's undoubtedly a sad moment to see the Pottery Village close after so many years as the home of this much-loved British brand."
"We wanted to give shoppers and Denby enthusiasts the chance to visit one final time and take home a piece of its heritage. While the stores are closing, the Denby brand itself will continue under new ownership, ensuring its legacy lives on. We hope as many people as possible will come along and help give the Pottery Village the send-off it deserves."
