Denby Pottery Company has officially appointed administrators following significant financial struggles, a move that has raised concerns for its 600 employees across the UK. The company, which has been in operation for 217 years, filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators on March 11, 2026, and the formal appointment occurred on March 31, 2026.
Founded in 1809, Denby has long been a staple of British manufacturing, known for its stoneware production utilizing local clay resources. However, the company has faced mounting pressures from rising costs and reduced demand, leading to its current predicament.
As part of the administration process, around 80 workers have already been made redundant, impacting both the main headquarters located between Denby and Ripley, where 358 employees work, and the warehouse in Derby, which employs 43 people. The situation has prompted the company to launch a #SaveDenby campaign to rally public support.
Despite these challenges, Denby continues to fulfill orders placed online and through its stores, and its international subsidiaries in Korea, the USA, and China remain unaffected by the administration process.
Linsey Farnsworth, a spokesperson for Denby, stated, “While today is a dark day, the formal move into administration is a protective step aimed at keeping the kilns firing while a long-term investor is sought.” This reflects the company’s hope to secure investment partners to navigate its financial difficulties.
Sebastian Lazell, another company representative, expressed the challenges faced, saying, “I was trying to move heaven and earth to save the business, but I had to be realistic that there may not be a happy ending.” This sentiment underscores the uncertainty surrounding Denby’s future.
Denby Pottery Company has been a significant employer in the region, with many employees having dedicated decades to the craft. One observer noted, “People who have been there for 30, 40 years… their skills are in pottery and there isn’t anything else around here for them to do like that.” This highlights the potential impact of job losses on the local community.
As Denby navigates this challenging period, the outcome remains uncertain, with a new deadline set to secure its future in the coming weeks. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the potential for new investment or the long-term viability of the company.
