Industry

The Prime Minister has pledged to review support for energy-intensive industries including ceramics after the issue was raised in the House of Commons by Stoke-on-Trent North and Kidsgrove MP David Williams. 

Portmeirion has brought in materials science consultancy Lucideon to work on reducing energy use in its kilns.

A new industry-backed apprenticeship scheme is being developed to help safeguard the future of North Staffordshire’s ceramics sector. 

The first phase of team expansion has begun at Kyocera SGS Precision Tools Europe as the manufacturer continues its investment and expansion in the Lichfield area.

Lucideon’s innovation across the nuclear industry was showcased to a Japanese delegation visiting its North Staffordshire headquarters.

Michelin has expanded its partnership with Ainscough Crane Hire, taking on full responsibility for the crane operator’s tyre requirements across its truck, trailer, van and mobile crane fleets. 

Ceramics UK has issued an urgent plea to the Government to extend the British Industry Supercharger scheme and offer energy cost relief to the 90 per cent of ceramics manufacturers who do not qualify for the programme.

A £10million advanced ceramics facility has completed 150 projects and attracted 22 new companies in its first year of operation, according to newly published performance figures.