Will Love for Clay and Craft Survive the Crippling Energy Crisis?

Sharon Yates, a dedicated employee of Dunoon Mugs, has spent over three decades honing her craft in a family-run pottery firm that has been a cornerstone of their community for 50 years. This Staffordshire enterprise has seen four generations of her family contribute, including her retired mother Irene, daughter-in-law Leian, and granddaughter Madi. However, the company is facing an existential crisis as it copes with skyrocketing energy bills that are now six times higher than they were just three years ago. The consequences have been severe, with 20% of the workforce made redundant and remaining staff forced to work shorter hours.

Ms. Yates expressed the emotional toll this situation has taken, stating she “would not be able to cope” if the pottery were to close down, emphasizing how her work is a significant part of her life and identity. The love for her craft, particularly putting handles on mugs, highlights the therapy and pride she derives from her job.

The pottery industry in Stoke-on-Trent is in dire straits, with three potteries already closing this year, leaving many in despair. Alan Smith, Dunoon’s director, conveyed the industry’s plight, noting that rising minimum wage and National Insurance contributions are further burdening the firm, making it increasingly difficult to stay afloat.

In response to these alarming circumstances, local MPs, the GMB trade union, and Ceramics UK are set to meet with Industry Minister Sarah Jones to urge for immediate governmental support to avert disaster within the pottery sector. As one of the most energy-intensive industries in the UK, the ceramics sector is pressing for subsidies for exorbitant energy bills and exemptions from carbon emissions penalties.

The loss of Moorcroft Pottery, which ceased trading after over a century, serves as a stark reminder of the stakes involved. Irene Yates, aged 81, recalls a time when the city thrived with more than 45,000 people employed in ceramics, leaving her heartbroken at the prospect of Dunoon Mug’s closure. The local MP Gareth Snell recently addressed Parliament, warning that without immediate government intervention, the pottery industry is on the verge of collapse. He criticized the government for not responding appropriately to this brewing crisis.

Amidst the uncertainty, Alan Smith remains skeptical about receiving meaningful government support, asserting that the authorities do not seem aligned with the needs of traditional industries.

A statement from the Department for Business and Trade indicated ongoing engagement with the ceramics sector to assess the challenges and ensure global competitiveness as part of a Plan for Change, but time is of the essence for this beloved industry.