A major new report has found that Stoke-on-Trent’s ceramics industry could drive economic growth, innovation and create high-quality local jobs – but only if manufacturers receive urgent support to deal with rising energy costs.
The independent report, commissioned by Stoke-on-Trent City Council, describes the sector as a vital component of key “future-facing” industries and says ceramics remains a foundation industry of national importance.
Researchers also said the industry was “still not being given the weight it deserves” by government.
The report concluded: “With the right support, Stoke and North Staffordshire ceramics sector can prosper as a highly dynamic internationally respected foundational sector that creates excellent local jobs driving economic renewal and regional pride.”
The findings show the number of ceramics firms operating in North Staffordshire fell from 137 in 2018 to 123 in 2024, with significant job losses in the tableware and giftware market during that period.
Soaring gas prices remain the biggest immediate threat to manufacturers and researchers noted ceramics production relies on gas for around 90 per cent of its energy use, yet current government support schemes are largely focussed on reducing electricity costs, providing only “minimal relief”.
However, the report identified clear areas of growth and resilience within the sector, with supply chain turnover increasing by 35 per cent between 2018 and 2024.
An action plan included in the report recommends continuing to lobby government for additional support arguing that ceramics is a foundational industry that supports high-growth sectors including energy, defence and advanced manufacturing.
Industry and political leaders in the city, including all three of its MPs, have united to continue calls for immediate support for the sector.
City council leader councillor Jane Ashworth, pictured above, said: “This report makes clear that ceramics isn’t just part of our past, but our future, too.
“This isn’t just about tableware – important though that is – but also about the vital role ceramics plays in key sectors like defence, health and aerospace.
“There is a huge amount of innovation already happening, and huge potential for growth.
“What we need right now is direct and immediate help to weather an economic storm that is not of this industry’s making. Ceramics underpins every other industry – and deserves the same levels of support.”
Rob Flello, chief executive of Staffordshire-based trade organisation Ceramics UK, said: “Ceramics UK welcomes all reports that draw attention to the essential value of the UK ceramic industry in all its forms.
“It is vital that the sector is supported and that action is taken to stop unfair imports from taking market share.
“We hope that this report acts as a catalyst for the government to support the UK industry with, in particular, full unfettered access to the Supercharger electricity relief scheme.”
The UK ceramics industry contributes over £2 billion a year to the economy and employs around 20,000 people.
The report was written by economic analysis consultancies KADA Research and Ortus Economic Research.
