Burleigh Pottery saved by former Burberry CEO after Denby collapse
Middleport's Burleigh Pottery has been bought after its parent company Denby went into administration in March
Last updated 9th Jun 2026
Burleigh Pottery in Stoke-on-Trent has been saved after being bought by former Burberry CEO Christopher Bailey.
The 175 year old firm Burleigh, also known as Burgess and Leigh, was owned by Denby Pottery which entered administration on 31 March.
More than 130 jobs were lost following Denby's collapse.
It's expected that 62 jobs are to be saved at Burleigh Pottery now, and production at the historic site will continue without interruption.
The takeover has been welcomed by Stoke-on-Trent North and Kidsgrove MP David Williams.
He said: "This is wonderful news for Burleigh, for our city, and for our skilled, passionate and dedicated workers who have made this iconic company globally recognised for the quality and craftsmanship of its products.
“Pottery is part of our DNA in Stoke-on-Trent. It is woven into who we are as a city and a community. Our ceramics industry has shaped generations of local families, and Burleigh remains one of the finest examples of the talent, skill and creativity that exists here."
Mr Williams described the deal as "another vote of confidence" in Stoke-on-Trent's ceramics industry and said he looked forward to seeing the company "go from strength to strength".
Stoke-on-Trent Council leader Jane Ashworth said: "It's fantastic news that Burleigh Pottery has been saved and is now under new ownership.
"We’ve always maintained that Burleigh – previously owned by Denby – is a viable and valuable business. Alongside the government’s recent support for the ceramics sector, this news demonstrates that the ceramics industry remains vital to the country’s future.
"Congratulations to the Burleigh team for proving they are so very special."