Over 50,000 sign petition calling for ceramics industry support

A petition has been launched calling on the Government to do more to help protect the ceramics industry after Denby Pottery went into administration.

The petition, set up by some of the historic manufacturer’s former employees, calls for energy intensive relief (known as the ‘Supercharger’ scheme) to be applied to the ceramics industry.

Those behind the petition believe such a move will support ceramics businesses, which are at the risk of imminent collapse.

It has been prompted by Denby going into administration at the end of last month, impacting hundreds of jobs.

So far, it has attracted over 50,000 signatures. All petitions that attract 100,000 are considered for debate in Parliament.

In an addition to the petition Amber Valley MP, Linsey Farnsworth, has also raised the specific challenges facing Denby in Parliament and advocated for support of the industry.

The company itself has also launched the #SaveDenby campaign, calling on people to raise awareness of the company’s plight and support it by buying its products.

The Denby group of companies in the UK filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators on 11 March following a period of challenging financial circumstances brought about by soaring costs and low consumer confidence.

The notice of intention was filed as a precautionary measure, and to provide a period of stability and short-term protection while exploring a range of options to secure a strategic investment partner.

Since then, Denby has been engaging extensively with its employees, customers, suppliers and retail partners, as well as with government locally, regionally and nationally, along with advisers and potential investors to try to find solutions for all stakeholders.

The news created extensive public support from all corners of the UK and beyond with many wanting to find ways to help, leading to Denby launching the #SaveDenby campaign.

Denby said there had been “unprecedented engagement” with the campaign, describing the outpouring of support as “overwhelming and deeply moving”.

Despite this, the business has so far not been able to secure strategic investment partners to take the business forward and on 31 March appointed FRP Advisory as administrators.

Denby continues to trade under FRP’s management as discussions continue with interested parties regarding a sale of some or all of the business and its brands.

Meanwhile, pressure remains on government locally, regionally and nationally to step in to protect the business and the wider industry before it is too late.

People are being urged to sign the petition, share the campaign, buy Denby products and visit Denby Pottery Village.

Tony Wright, joint administrator of the Denby Group and partner at FRP, said: “Denby is one of Britain’s most beloved and enduring pottery brands, with a heritage spanning more than two centuries and a loyal following across the UK and internationally.

“While it is disappointing that the group has been unable to secure the investment needed to continue as a going concern, the strength and recognition of these brands is undeniable.

“We are focused on progressing the sale process as quickly as possible, and we would encourage any interested parties to come forward without delay.”

To sign the petition, click here.

To find out more about the #SaveDenby campaign, click here.