Final Piece of Denby Pottery Signed
The last piece of Denby Pottery, which is closing after centuries of production, has been signed by Richard Eaton, the designer of the range over 35 years ago.
Finished in the firm's "iconic" Imperial Blue glaze, the bowl was collected and signed by Eaton, the company announced on Monday.
Company Background and Closure Announcement
Denby Pottery, based in Derbyshire and founded in 1809, appointed administrators on 31 March due to financial challenges stemming from rising energy and labour costs.
In a Facebook post, the company expressed gratitude for the "outpouring of love and support at this difficult time."
When announcing the administration, Denby cited reduced demand, "escalating" employment costs, and soaring energy expenses as factors that had "squeezed the business financially."
Campaigns and Community Response
A #SaveDenby campaign was initiated to encourage increased purchases of Denby products, but administrators were unable to find a buyer, resulting in the cessation of production.
Additionally, a petition titled "support the ceramics industry and protect British manufacturing jobs and skills" has garnered over 105,000 signatures, surpassing the threshold for consideration in a Parliamentary debate.
Local MP's Statement
Linsey Farnsworth, Labour MP for Amber Valley, pledged her commitment to advocate for Denby Pottery until the very end.
"This is an incredibly devastating moment for our entire community.
Denby Pottery is so much more than just a trademark name. It is handcrafted, sustainable tableware made right here from our local clay.
Being made in Denby, in Amber Valley, in Derbyshire, is what gave this world-renowned pottery its soul, built entirely on the irreplaceable skill, pride, and craftsmanship passed down through generations of local families."
Company's Appreciation and Future Outlook
In a statement, Denby thanked its workers and customers for their support.
"Centuries of making pottery at Denby may be coming to a close, but the love and soul poured into each piece will live on," the company said.
"Denby would not have been able to continue for this long without generations of dedicated, skilled people."
International subsidiaries of Denby in Korea, the US, and China remain unaffected by the administration and will continue normal operations.
Additional Information
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