Denby Pottery Village in Derbyshire closed its doors on Saturday (August 29) instead of Sunday, after stock sold out faster than expected. The flagship shop was originally due to close for the final time on Sunday.
Stock sells out ahead of schedule
A source from administrators FRP said response to news of the closure was "phenomenal", with higher than expected footfall at its closing down sale over the past few days. As a result, stock sold through much faster than expected, and the remaining stores, including the Pottery Village in Denby, closed at midday on Saturday instead of Sunday.
The closure follows the end of pottery production in Denby, which had been at the site since 1809. While its stoneware operations have ceased, the brand is set to continue, according to its administrators.
Brand to continue under new ownership
Denby Pottery collapsed in March. The company blamed reduced demand as well as rising energy and labour costs. Outlets in Ashford, Portsmouth, Braintree, York, Dalton Park, Castleford and Cheshire Oaks are also closing this week.
Tony Wright, joint administrator of the Denby group of companies and partner at FRP, said it was undoubtedly a sad moment to see the Pottery Village close after so many years as the home of a much-loved British brand. He added: "While the stores are closing, the Denby brand itself will continue under new ownership, ensuring its legacy lives on."
Fans share sadness online
Fans of the Pottery Village and brand took to social media to voice their sadness at the closure and reminisce. Facebook user Alan Mason posted that he visited with friends and grandchildren a few times, describing the closure as "such a shame". Fellow Facebook user Elaine Oakes wrote: "Such a wonderful company. So sad to see it go." Jayne Pearce wrote on the platform: "Heartbreaking. I love all of my Denby Pottery. It's just the best. I'm sorry for all the employees."
