The Denby Group of Companies in the UK, renowned for premium handcrafted ceramics and homeware, has filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators. This step offers short-term protection to allow the business to explore potential funding and restructuring solutions.
Founded in 1809, Denby manufactures tableware in Derbyshire and sells its products across the UK, Ireland, and more than 30 international markets, including South Korea, North America, and China. Its subsidiary, Burgess & Leigh, produces the Burleigh ceramics brand at Middleport Pottery in Stoke-on-Trent, serving hospitality and luxury markets worldwide.
In a statement, the Group said: “As Denby expanded internationally and strengthened the brand at home through the 2010s and early 2020s, the business went from strength to strength growing sales and profitability.
“However, challenging market conditions in the last three years, with reduced consumer confidence softening demand for premium but less essential purchases, combined with escalating costs of employment in the UK and soaring industrial energy costs – without as yet government support for the energy-intensive ceramics sector – have all squeezed the business financially.
“At the same time, tighter financial markets and reduced access to funding have made it increasingly difficult for manufacturing businesses to secure the requisite working capital required to navigate these challenges.
“Despite this backdrop, Denby has seen increased demand for its products in recent months, is on track for budgeted sales for the year, and the business remains a market leader in premium tableware in the UK and key international markets, especially the Far East. And Burgess & Leigh is going from strength to strength across hospitality and the luxury sector globally.
“While Denby has explored a range of options, it has not yet been able to secure a strategic investment partner aligned with the long-term vision and values of its historic British brands, which are much loved by their large global fan base.”
Denby and Burgess & Leigh are continuing to trade while all options for the future of the companies are being explored, with international subsidiaries such as Denby Korea and Denby USA continuing to trade as normal.
The Group said it remains focused on supporting employees, customers, suppliers, and retail partners while working with advisers to determine the best possible outcome for all stakeholders. It added that the search for a suitable partner will continue, whether for the Denby Group as a whole or for each brand individually.