Labour Blamed for Demise of Denby Pottery
Denby, the historic Derbyshire pottery founded in 1809, has entered administration. The company pointed to soaring energy bills and rising labour costs. About 600 jobs are now at risk.
Denby’s history and current status
Denby has produced stoneware for more than two centuries. Its mugs and tableware are widely recognised across Britain.
A #SaveDenby campaign has launched to try to keep the business operating. Administrators are assessing options for the firm.
Recent related closures
Another pottery, Royal Stafford, collapsed in February last year. The firm was based in Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, and made china since 1845.
The Royal Stafford site had a manufacturing history stretching back to 1787. Its failure cost around 80 jobs.
Energy costs and industry warnings
Industry bodies and unions have linked such failures to high power prices. The union GMB called the Royal Stafford collapse a “wake-up call”.
UK Steel reported UK electricity costs 14–25% higher than those in France and Germany. Make UK said British firms pay about four times the US price.
Calls for reform
Make UK urged removal of regressive policy levies to reduce business bills by around 15%. It also recommended a fixed industrial electricity price.
The trade body warned that UK manufacturers face de-industrialisation without urgent reform.
Political reactions and policy debate
Some commentators have blamed Labour policies and net zero commitments for added costs. Others have pushed ministers to act to protect industry.
The Business Secretary, Peter Kyle, was singled out by observers as central to any government response. The Conservatives have proposed scrapping carbon taxes on industry.
Local and national implications
The potential loss of Denby highlights risks to regional manufacturing. Stoke-on-Trent remains known as the Potteries because of its long ceramics history.
Many worry that continued factory closures will harm communities and supply chains. Industry groups say policy changes are needed to level the playing field internationally.
Keywords such as Labour, blamed, demise, and Denby Pottery feature in the ongoing debate. Filmogaz.com will continue to follow developments and report new details as they emerge.
