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Sun, 05 Jul 2026

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 Clay, kilns and the cost of survival for tile makers

While some firms lean into their heritage, others are modernising in the face of economic pressures.
At the historic William Blyth tile-making site in North Lincolnshire, Tessa Oldroyd is one of only a few people still making traditional clay roof tiles using century-old machinery. The 24-year-old is part of a small team that has been preserving this craft for generations, despite facing significant challenges from rising energy costs and competition from cheaper imports. Oldroyd's workplace dates back to the 1840s and is one of only about a dozen remaining traditional tile-making firms in the UK. The company relies on its heritage and the unique characteristics of handmade tiles to attract customers who value their authenticity. However, some companies are looking to modernize and reduce carbon emissions by investing in new technologies, such as Wienerberger's £37m investment in an electric tunnel kiln for clay roof tiles. This move aims to cut 4,700 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year and is seen as a long-term strategic decision to meet changing regulation and customer expectations. The transition to modernized production methods is not without its challenges, with some experts arguing that it could undermine the value of traditional handmade tiles. Nevertheless, companies like William Blyth are holding on to their heritage, relying on the unique qualities of their products to attract customers who appreciate their history and craftsmanship.