UK ceramics sector seeks more government support amid energy cost crisis
9 reported
The UK ceramics industry, which employs 20,000 people and produces household goods as well as defense and technology components, is calling for additional government assistance as it faces rising energy costs and international competition. Portmeirion, a Stoke-on-Trent-based homeware brand founded in 1960 with 433 employees, is among the companies affected. The sector has seen notable closures, including Royal Stafford and Heraldic Pottery in February 2025, while Wedgwood froze production for 90 days and Denby called in administrators on March 31. Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a £120m support package last month to aid energy efficiency and competitiveness, but industry leaders argue more is needed, particularly regarding energy costs and net zero policies.
What’s reported
The UK ceramics sector employs 20,000 people, half in the West Midlands.
Portmeirion employs 433 people and is based in Stoke-on-Trent.
Royal Stafford and Heraldic Pottery both closed in February 2025.
Wedgwood froze production for 90 days, restarting in January.
Denby called in administrators on March 31, citing rising employment and energy costs.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a £120m support package last month.
UK month-ahead gas prices were around 118p a therm, up 50% from 78.50p before the Iran war began.
The ceramics industry has spent £750m on decarbonisation initiatives.
Nearly 90,000 people signed a petition asking for the sector to be included in the British Industry Supercharger and BICS schemes.
Key figures
Sam Pearce, chief operating officer of Portmeirion
Michael Scheepers, chief executive of Portmeirion
Rachel Reeves, chancellor
Rob Flello, chief executive of Ceramics UK
Ed Miliband, energy secretary
Tony Blair, former prime minister
Alex Patrick-Smith, executive chair of Dreadnought Tiles
Sources: The Guardian
