Changes afoot at Royal Crown Derby as business is sold

Ceramic industry business leader, Kevin Oakes, has bought fine bone china manufacturer, Royal Crown Derby, for an undisclosed sum.

The new owner says he will “implement changes” across the business because of “extremely challenging” market conditions.

A spokesperson for the company refused to rule out redundancies when we contacted them.

The deal means Oakes has chosen to exit tableware manufacturer and former owner of Royal Crown Derby, Steelite International, after 39 years, the last 10 of which were spent as chief executive.

Royal Crown Derby was established in 1750 and has been as its present site since 1878. It employs 200 people at Osmaston Road in the city.

Oakes said: “Royal Crown Derby is one of the UK’s most iconic brands and I’ve always passionately believed that the business can succeed on the global stage.

“I led Steelite International’s acquisition of Royal Crown Derby in 2012 and following today’s announcement I plan to invest heavily in the business to ensure our long term vision is realised.”

He added: “Market conditions remain extremely challenging and changes will be implemented across all areas of the business to ensure it is appropriately structured and resourced.

“We are committed to long-term manufacturing in Derby and I’m confident that with targeted investments in our team, our factory and product innovation, the outlook for the business is both positive and exciting.”

John Forkin, managing director of Marketing Derby, said: “Royal Crown Derby is one of the city’s most iconic companies and this has to be good news.

Their quality products are known across the world and new owner, Kevin Oakes, brings decades of international experience to the role. It’s important that he knows he has the backing of the city.

The company has been a Marketing Derby Bondholder for some years and we will be reaching out to see how we might support their growth.”

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