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Thu, 12 Mar 2026

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 Pottery firm Denby to appoint administrators

The famous company said rising costs had "squeezed the business financially".
Denby, a 217-year-old pottery firm based in Derbyshire, has announced plans to appoint administrators due to financial struggles caused by rising costs and reduced demand. The company, which was saved from collapse by investment firm Hilco Capital in 2009, said it had been unable to secure a suitable investment partner despite exploring various options. Denby cited "escalating" employment costs, "soaring" energy costs, and "tighter financial markets" as contributing factors to its struggles. The company's statement added that it will continue to trade alongside subsidiary Burgess and Leigh and international subsidiaries while it seeks a solution. The GMB union has expressed concerns for the future of Denby employees, with organiser Craig Thomson calling on the government to take urgent action on energy prices to support the sector. Derbyshire Labour MP Linsey Farnsworth has also held an emergency meeting with the company and is working closely with the union to explore possible solutions. Key points:
* Denby to appoint administrators due to financial struggles
* Company cites rising costs, reduced demand, and "tighter financial markets"
* Continues to trade alongside subsidiary Burgess and Leigh and international subsidiaries
* GMB union expresses concerns for employee futures
* Government urged to take action on energy prices to support sector