A Stoke-on-Trent manufacturer has launched a UK-first in clay production with a new stoneware product which could reduce industry-crippling energy costs.
Valentine Clays describes the launch of new stoneware clay LoStone as a significant milestone in the company’s 46-year history and says it is gearing up for national and international expansion in the art, hobby and education sectors as a result of it.
Decades of research and development have gone into creating the product that works to ‘substantially’ lower firing temperatures as well as offering ‘significant’ creativity and sustainability advantages.
Hannah Ault, CEO of Valentine Clays, said: “As the UK’s first low-fire stoneware, LoStone redefines what’s possible to give makers everything they love about stoneware, including strength, stability and surface, but with a reduction in the cost of firing and kiln maintenance.
“It means a new generation of potters can now work with and enjoy the dynamic qualities of this enduring clay, without the energy demands.
“Up to now, stoneware has been largely out of reach of the smaller pottery businesses.
“Requiring intense firing, it has been literally too hot to handle, with many potters’ kilns not having the capability to heat up to the required temperatures.
“For those that do, the additional energy costs are a burden.
“With LoStone, we can now put stoneware in the hands of many more creatives, and it’s exciting to see the opportunities this will bring for us nationally and internationally.”
Valentine Clays, based in Fenton, has also invested in a new online retail facility on its website.
Over the years, the business has championed the growing community of pottery enthusiasts and has worked with well-known people in the industry such as Keith Brymer Jones to put the power of clay on the map.
The ceramics industry is currently facing a crisis relating to high energy costs, with Royal Stafford attributing it to one of the reasons for its collapse earlier this year.
Hannah, who serves as the President of national trade body, Ceramics UK, added: “The launch of LoStone is part of our ongoing approach to deliver a step-change to the manufacture of clay, bringing enhanced sustainability and creativity benefits for UK potters.
“We want to challenge the status quo and breathe new life into the products and services we offer.
“A hallmark of our business is the work we do to foster a sense of community and collaboration among potters, artists and enthusiasts.
“Together we look at ways to meet their needs and continue to support the highest levels of creativity and craftmanship. The launch of LoStone reflects that approach.
“Our technical team has pulled out all the stops to deliver this product, and it’s a proud moment in our history.
“We now look forward to supplying LoStone to potters across the UK, and eventually into international markets.”
