Denby Pottery has ceased its manufacturing operations after administrators failed to secure a buyer for the historic ceramics firm.
The firm has slashed the price of its products after it was confirmed the business would cease manufacturing.
Many of its ranges are seeing discounts of up to 50 per cent as the company clears its stock.
The Derbyshire-based company, which had produced pottery from its Peak District site since 1809, entered administration on March 31 following mounting financial pressures.
Former chief executive Sebastian Lazell said escalating costs had left the business operating at a loss.
Administrators FRP Advisory confirmed that no purchaser could be found for the manufacturing division despite efforts to secure a deal.
“It has not been possible to secure a buyer for the manufacturing operations and a difficult decision to close the business’s making and design departments has been taken,” they said.
More than 100 skilled workers have been made redundant, with around 80 initial job losses followed by a further 49 roles cut on April 22.
Production has ran for over 200 years in Derbyshire
|
Denby
Craig Thomson, local organiser for the GMB union, criticised the decision, saying administrators were “stripping this company of its most important asset, its highly skilled potters”.
He said the union would “resist and fight for workers for their voice to be heard”.
Before entering administration, Denby employed more than 500 staff, including craftspeople, apprentices, engineers and retail workers, and had maintained continuous production at its Derbyshire site for 217 years.
The company said reduced demand, rising operating costs and soaring energy prices had placed severe pressure on its margins.
Mr Lazell said he had attempted to “move heaven and earth” to prevent the collapse.
Denby are advertising the clearance on their website
|
Denby
The business has continued trading during the administration process, with FRP overseeing discussions about a potential sale of parts of the company and its brands.
Denby has continued fulfilling orders through its online platform and retail stores while reducing stock by between 20 and 50 per cent.
A petition calling for Government support for the ceramics sector has attracted more than 69,000 signatures.
Campaigners want ministers to include ceramics manufacturers in the British Industry Supercharger scheme, which provides electricity cost relief for eligible industries.
Former employee Hayley Baddiley said the petition sought a “level playing field” for a sector facing some of the highest industrial energy costs in the world.
Tony Wright, joint administrator at FRP Advisory, acknowledged the impact on staff.
“This is another very difficult day for the skilled workers at Denby and we understand how devastating this news will be for those affected and their families,” he said.

