Keeping British Tableware Alive

For more than 200 years, Britain was at the very heart of the world’s pottery and tableware industry. Names such as Wedgwood, Royal Doulton, Spode, Denby, Johnson Brothers and Poole Pottery became synonymous with quality, craftsmanship and innovation. Entire towns, particularly in Staffordshire, were built around the pottery trade, earning the region its enduring name: The Potteries.

At its peak in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Stoke-on-Trent alone was home to over 300 working potteries. British ceramics were exported across the globe, filling homes from London to New York, Sydney to Cape Town. British tableware became part of everyday life, valued for its durability as much as its beauty.

A Changing Industry

However, the second half of the 20th century saw dramatic change. Rising labour costs, increased global competition, changing consumer habits and the shift towards mass production overseas led to a steady decline in UK pottery manufacturing. Many famous names disappeared altogether, while others merged, relocated production, or were acquired by international owners.

For example:

• Royal Doulton, founded in London in 1815, is now part of the Finnish company Fiskars Group.

• Wedgwood, one of Britain’s most iconic ceramic brands, is also owned by Fiskars.

• Royal Worcester and Spode became part of the Portmeirion Group, itself now internationally owned and globally focused.

• Johnson Brothers, once one of Britain’s largest pottery manufacturers, ceased UK production after being acquired by the American company Interpace and later Waterford Wedgwood.

• Poole Pottery, a much-loved Dorset manufacturer, passed through several owners and is now part of Denby Pottery, one of the few major British tableware producers still manufacturing in England.

Today, only a small fraction of the hundreds of potteries that once defined British industry remain in operation. While brands continue to exist, much production now takes place overseas.

The Rise of Discontinued Patterns

Tableware patterns have always come and gone, driven primarily by changing fashions and consumer tastes. What was popular in one decade could fall out of favour in the next, as colours, shapes and styles evolved. Manufacturers regularly introduced new designs to reflect contemporary trends, while older patterns were quietly retired as demand declined.

Of course, the closure of potteries and consolidation within the industry also contributed to the loss of certain designs, particularly where factories ceased production entirely. But even during the height of British ceramic manufacturing, pattern turnover was a normal part of the industry. Pottery has always balanced tradition with innovation.

As a result, thousands of distinctive British tableware patterns, from everyday favourites to iconic designs, have been discontinued over the years. Yet while production may have stopped, the pieces themselves remain in homes across the country and around the world, still used and valued decades later.

For many families, these patterns represent continuity; wedding gifts, shared meals, and everyday rituals. When a piece breaks or goes missing, replacing it helps preserve not just a set, but a small part of personal and national history.

Extending the Life of British Tableware

At MrPottery, our work is centred around keeping these pieces in use. By sourcing and supplying replacement china, we help customers maintain their existing sets rather than replacing them entirely.

This supports both heritage and sustainability.

Every time a discontinued plate is matched with its original set, it preserves not just an object, but a small part of Britain’s manufacturing history. It also reduces waste, extending the life of items that were designed to last for generations.

Many British-made pieces from Denby, Hornsea, Royal Doulton, Poole Pottery and Johnson Brothers are still in daily use today, decades after they were first produced.

Supporting a Circular Economy

Our approach also contributes to a circular economy; one where items are reused and kept in circulation rather than discarded. By sourcing tableware from charity shops and secondary markets, we help ensure these pieces continue to serve their original purpose.

This reduces demand for new production and supports charitable causes at the same time.

In this way, replacement china services do more than simply provide convenience. They help preserve craftsmanship, reduce waste and honour Britain’s rich ceramic heritage.

Preserving More Than Just Pottery

While the number of active British potteries may have declined, their legacy lives on in the millions of pieces still used in homes today.

Every replacement cup, saucer or plate helps keep that legacy alive.

At MrPottery, we are proud to play a small part in preserving British tableware; ensuring that the craftsmanship, history and memories associated with these pieces continue to be enjoyed for many years to come.