Moorcroft Pottery, in Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, is famed for its colourful designs. But now it has said that with “deep sadness” it has appointed receivers to place it into voluntary liquidation. Unions say 57 people hve lost their jobs as a result.
Despite its designs being sold worldwide, Moorcroft had been struggling. It warned of redundancies earlier this year because of rising costs and falling sales.
“Coupled with the increase in energy prices, which in the past two years alone have increased by almost £120,000 per annum, together with increased costs from its suppliers, the business has faced a challenging climate.”
Why is the UK ceramics industry in trouble?
Moorcroft’s collapse is the latest casualty in an industry the UK once led the world in. In February, fellow Burslem firm Royal Stafford closed its doors for the final time at the cost of more than 70 jobs, despite a history of more than 200 years of pottery-making at the site.
Moorcroft has been running since the 19th century (Photo: A Eeley/The Image Factory)
Portmeirion pottery, noted for its botanical designs, has also suffered as a result of recent economic turmoil. The company, which runs the Royal Worcester and Spode brands, said difficult market conditions meant it was seeking to make as many as 18 staff redundant.
It said: “This regrettable news underscores the significant challenges currently facing the UK ceramics sector, including soaring energy costs, increased international competition, and a difficult trading environment. These pressures are making it increasingly difficult for even established and celebrated manufacturers to remain viable.”
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“We recently launched our UK Ceramics Rescue Plan to address these critical issues and advocate for measures that will ensure the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of ceramic manufacturers in the UK.” Unions have called for government support and intervention similar to that seen in the steel industry.
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