Denby, a renowned pottery maker with a history spanning 217 years, has ceased manufacturing operations due to the inability to secure a buyer. The company, located in Ripley, Derbyshire, entered administration in late March, citing escalating energy costs as the primary reason for unsustainable financial losses.
Administrators from FRP Advisory, overseeing the process, have confirmed the closure of Denby’s making and design departments after unsuccessful attempts to find a purchaser for the manufacturing segment. This decision will lead to an additional 49 job losses, following a prior round of 80 redundancies earlier in the month.
Tony Wright, joint administrator at FRP, expressed empathy for the affected employees, acknowledging the challenging circumstances. Despite exhaustive efforts, a buyer for the manufacturing operations could not be found, necessitating the closure. Discussions are ongoing with interested parties regarding other aspects of the business to provide support to affected staff.
The GMB union’s organizer, Craig Thomson, lamented the loss of skilled workers at Denby, emphasizing the significance of the company’s craftsmanship. He criticized the administrators for what he deemed as a hasty approach to job cuts and urged government intervention to prevent the collapse of this British heritage brand.
Known for its “made in England” legacy, Denby produces a wide range of ceramics, from dinnerware to cookware, with notable clients such as John Lewis, Lakeland, and Dunelm. Financial reports for 2024 highlighted a challenging year marked by reduced consumer demand, leading to increased annual losses. Denby’s workforce numbered 536 by the end of 2024.
Sebastian Lazell, Denby’s former boss, expressed efforts to save the business, acknowledging the uncertain outlook. He called on the government to extend energy cost support to the ceramics industry. Denby’s significant energy expenses, particularly with three large gas-fired kilns running continuously, have risen substantially in recent years due to external factors like the escalating cost of oil and gas amid global tensions.
