UK ceramics sector seeks more support amid energy crisis and closures

The UK ceramics industry, employing 20,000 people with half in the West Midlands, is calling for additional government help beyond a £120m support package announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves. The sector faces soaring energy costs, international competition, and rising labour expenses. Recent closures include Royal Stafford (nearly 200 years old) in February 2025 and Heraldic Pottery. Wedgwood froze production for 90 days, restarting in January 2025, while Denby (founded 1809) called in administrators on 31 March 2025. Portmeirion, founded in 1960 and employing 433 people in Stoke-on-Trent, seeks to expand UK production. Industry leaders like Ceramics UK CEO Rob Flello and Portmeirion CEO Michael Scheepers urge inclusion in the British Industry Supercharger and BICS schemes, which provide electricity cost relief. Nearly 90,000 people have signed a petition for ceramics to be included. The government spokesperson highlighted the £120m package and ongoing collaboration. Despite challenges, Moorcroft returned to production in September 2025 after being saved from liquidation, and Home Bargains is reportedly pursuing acquisition of Denby's assets.