Stoke-on-Trent pottery giant reports £3.5m pre-tax loss but sees growth overseas

Stoke-on-Trent’s Portmeirion Group, renowned for its pottery brands including Spode, has reported a £3.5 million pre-tax loss for last year but noted growth in international markets.

The Group’s overall sales rose by 1%, with South Korea seeing strong performance and a 26% increase, alongside 14% growth in its other international markets. However, sales in North America fell by 7%, largely due to disruptions caused by significant US import tariffs impacting the firm’s strategy in its largest market.

UK tableware sales offered a bright spot, rising by 6%, and strong sell-through of seasonal Spode lines was reported during the festive season.

The Group also made some strategic leadership appointments, such as a new Global Brand and Commercial Director, Product Strategy Director, and a President of Sales in North America. These moves aim to fast-track growth and improve leadership impact.

The Group’s Chief Executive, Mike Raybould, said:

“We took bold decisions in April to position our business for long-term growth, resetting certain customer relationships, changing how we work, and reinvigorating our approach… Our ‘Made in Stoke-on-Trent’ product has resonated well with customers, especially in the US, South Korea, and international markets. It is core to positioning our premium brands towards higher value customers and channels and will be a focus in our marketing in 2026.”

US market challenges were also addressed, with improvements noted in seasonal sell-through performance, particularly for UK-made Spode Christmas tableware.

Looking ahead, Portmeirion is set to fast-track global product releases under its Spode and Portmeirion lines in 2026, aiming to maximise growth while maintaining careful inventory control to protect its brand reputation.

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