An £8m investment from the BGF (Business Growth Fund), which invests in growing businesses, will be spearheading growth for iconic ceramics brand Emma Bridgewater, both in the UK and globally.
HSBC has also committed a £2.5m debt facility, which, together with BGF’s £8m investment, will support the company’s continued growth in the UK, increasing capacity at its Stoke-on-Trent factory, and exploring international markets including the USA and China.
Colin Porter, previously ceo of Joules, has joined the Board as non-executive chair.
“All our ceramics are made in Staffordshire deploying traditional local craft skills,” commented founder Emma Bridgewater. “We have grown organically over the past 35 years while staying true to my vision of beautiful wares, made with love and attention in a beautiful factory.”
Emma added: “I’m personally very excited to have this opportunity to work with the BGF– and with Colin Porter who is chairing our Board – to expand our brand into new markets and a new era.”
Emma founded her eponymous company in 1984 after she was unable to find the right giftfor her mother’s birthday.
In addition to tableware, the brand has diversified into glassware, stationery, picnicware, wallpaper and fabrics. Revenues have grown to over £20m in 2019, with EBITDA of over £2m.
Top: Emma Bridgewater is shown with some of her iconic ceramics.
