economy
Centuries-old pottery firm Denby set to call in administrators
Almost 600 jobs could go amid higher cost of gas and labour and softening consumer demand
TL;DR
- Denby, a 217-year-old pottery company, has called in administrators, putting approximately 600 jobs at risk.
- The company cited rising gas and labor costs, tighter financial markets, and softening consumer demand as reasons for its struggles.
- Despite a public support campaign (#SaveDenby), strategic investment partners were not found.
- Denby will continue to trade while administrators seek a buyer; its international subsidiaries are not affected.
- Recent financial reports showed a significant drop in sales and profits for Denby in 2024.
- The GMB union criticized government inaction regarding the impact of energy costs on the ceramics industry.
- Other UK potteries, including Royal Stafford, Moorcroft, and Wedgwood, have also faced difficulties or job cuts recently.
- The situation at Denby is part of a broader trend of consumer goods companies falling into administration due to lackluster spending and rising costs.