Denby pottery, the iconic British ceramics brand founded in 1809, fired its last pieces on Thursday, marking the end of 217 years of production. The final kiln run was captured on video as veteran employee Roger, who has been with the firm for 54 years, pushed a trolley of bowls and vases to the furnace. Administrators had taken control in March after the company could not absorb soaring energy and labour costs.

Denby's final kiln firing on Thursday

The video posted on social media shows colleagues applauding as the last batch of clay bowls and vases leaves the workshop for the kiln. The company’s caption thanked generations of staff and customers, noting that “the love and soul poured into each piece will live on.” According to the report, more than 20 workers traditionally touched every item, a hallmark of Denby’s handcrafted reputation.

130 jobs erased since March administration

Since administrators were called in, the Derbyshire factory has shed over 130 positions, a blow to the local economy. GMB union representative Craig Thomson called the closure “a disaster for Derbyshire,” emphasizing that the loss of UK‑made pottery erodes a unique cultural asset. The plant, once home to a 16,700‑sq ft pottery village with a bistro and farm shop, now stands silent.

Home Bargains eyes Denby acquisition

Last week, This is Money reported that discount retailer Home Bargains, owned by Labour donor Tom Morris, is in talks to buy the Denby brand. the potential deal, overseen by insolvency firm FRP Advisory, could keep the name alive even if production moves abroad. Sky News added that other home‑wares chains have also expressed interest,though no final offer has been confirmed.

Petition of 101,000 signatures forces parliamentary debate

A public petition to save Denby gathered more than 101,000 signatures, prompting a debate in the House of Commons. Conservative MP Tom Tugendhat labelled the administration a “man‑made tragedy” and blamed Energy Secretary Ed Miliband’s Net Zero targets for squeezing manufacturers. The petition’s momentum illustrates widespead public attachment to the brand’s heritage.

Energy costs and Net Zero targets cited as key drivers

Industry observers note that Denby’s collapse mirrors a broader crisis in UK manufacturing,where high electricity prices and stringent emissions policies have forced several historic firms into insolvency. As the report states,the company “was plunged into administration in March after struggles against the cost of energy and labour.” Whether policy adjustments can prevent further losses remains an open question.

Who will decide Denby's next chapter?

The fate of Denby hinges on whether a buyer like Home Bargains will acquire the brand and relocate production, or whether a new investor will preserve some UK‑based output. The report does not confirm any definitive buyer, leaving the future of the iconic stoneware uncertain.