Denby, a renowned pottery maker with a rich history spanning 217 years, has announced the cessation of its manufacturing operations due to the inability to secure a buyer. The company, headquartered in Ripley, Derbyshire, entered administration in late March, attributing its financial struggles to escalating energy costs.
FRP Advisory, the appointed administrators, confirmed ongoing discussions regarding certain segments of the business. However, despite efforts, a buyer could not be found for the manufacturing divisions, leading to the closure of the making and design departments. This decision will result in an additional 49 job losses, following a previous round of 80 job cuts earlier.
Tony Wright, joint administrator of the Denby Group, expressed regret over the situation, emphasizing the challenges faced in finding a buyer for the manufacturing operations. Efforts are still underway to explore options for other parts of the business and to provide support to affected employees during this difficult period.
Craig Thomson from the GMB union denounced the closure, advocating for the preservation of Denby’s skilled workforce and resisting what he deemed as premature job losses orchestrated by the administrators. The union called for governmental intervention to avert the collapse of this British institution.
Known for its “made in England” heritage, Denby produces a wide range of ceramics, including dinner services, bakeware, and cookware, with prominent retailers such as John Lewis, Lakeland, and Dunelm among its clientele. The company reported challenging market conditions in its last financial accounts, citing reduced consumer demand leading to increased annual losses.
Sebastian Lazell, former Denby boss, acknowledged the trying circumstances facing the business and appealed for industry-specific energy cost support from the government. The company’s substantial energy expenses, driven by round-the-clock operation of gas-fired kilns, have surged in recent years, exacerbated by external factors like the escalation of oil and gas prices amid geopolitical tensions.