UK Government Pledges £120 Million to Support Pottery Industry in Stoke-on-Trent

The UK government announced a £120 million support package for the pottery industry in Stoke-on-Trent this week. The package includes about £60 million for modernisation and decarbonisation efforts. Firms will receive assistance to invest in drying equipment and reduce dependence on gas-fired kilns.

Pottery manufacturers in the area have faced rising energy costs and difficult market conditions. These pressures prompted local workers to seek government assistance. Sharon Yates, a pottery worker and GMB union member, has campaigned for job security for 18 months. She described the announcement as providing a sense of relief after sustained efforts.

Business and Industry Secretary Peter Kyle visited the Emma Bridgewater factory in Stoke-on-Trent following the announcement. He stated that finding the funds was not easy and that the investment targets growth in the economy. Kyle noted awareness of past de-industrialisation effects on the city.

Ministers will work with industry representatives to determine specific spending priorities. Labour MP David Williams for Stoke-on-Trent North said the package resulted from two years of work. He described it as a bespoke scheme developed for the ceramics sector rather than fitting into existing programs.