Struggling ceramics sector could prosper - report

The struggling ceramics industry in north Staffordshire could prosper as a "highly dynamic" sector if it gets the right support from the government, a report has said.

The research, commissioned by Stoke-on-Trent City Council, makes clear that ceramics is a vital component of key industries like aerospace, defence, clean energy and electronics.

It has faced challenges in recent times, with several companies in Stoke-on-Trent collapsing in the midst of issues, including rising energy costs and competition from abroad.

A government spokesperson said ministers "were expected to set out some support for the ceramics sector in due course".

The report, titled Ceramics Sector Assessment in North Staffordshire, warned that companies were vulnerable to "gas price shocks" as a result of the Ukraine war.

Gas is responsible for 90% of energy consumption in ceramics, the report added, meaning previously-announced government support on electricity bills would only provide "minimal relief".

As a result of these difficulties, it said the number of ceramics firms in north Staffordshire had fallen from 137 in 2018 to 123 in 2024.

But despite this, the research complied by Kada and Ortus Economic Research, concluded that net company worth had increased since 2018 in advanced and technical ceramics, sanitaryware and refractory products.

In these sectors, supply chain turnover had increased by 35% between 2018 and 2024, the report added.

"With the right support, the Stoke-on-Trent 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," it said.

The council said the report would be shared with ministers as the authority and MPs continued to press the government for immediate support.

Council leader Jane Ashworth 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."

During a recent debate in the House of Commons, Peter Kyle, secretary of state for business and trade, told Stoke-on-Trent MPs he was willing to visit the city to learn about the industry.

He said "a minority" of firms might be eligible for support through existing schemes, but there needed to be a "a very, very focused look, a comprehensive look" at the sector.

The department for business and trade has been contacted for further comment.

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