Housewares Business-to-business magazine for housewares retailers and their suppliers
Portmeirion Group is the recipient of The Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the category of International Trade.
The Stoke-on-Trent company, which supplies tableware, cookware, giftware and tabletop accessories, encompasses four brands: Portmeirion, Spode, Royal Worcester and Pimpernel.
The Queen’s Award for Enterprise recognises the Group’s continuous growth in overseas sales and overall outstanding achievement in international trade over the past six years.
The Award, consisting of a Grant of Appointment, will be presented by the Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire at Portmeirion Group’s offices later this year.
Portmeirion posted record sales in 2015, up by 11.9% to £68.7 million, while pre-tax profit rose 13.6% to £8.6 million.
The Group has improved sales in the UK and the US, which is the largest overseas market, representing nearly a third of sales
The housewares supplier has also enjoyed revenue growth in Asia. India, in particular, has seen exceptional growth due primarily to the wedding gift market.
2016 marks the 200th anniversary of the launch of Portmeirion Group’s oldest continuously produced pattern: Spode’s Blue Italian. This traditional cobalt design’s annual sales exceed £1.5 million.
Commenting on the award, Portmeirion Group chairman Dick Steele said: “Portmeirion Group’s 700 employees based in the UK and US are honoured to receive this award.
“Portmeirion, Spode and Royal Worcester are global brands and our fine tableware has been gracing homes throughout the world for over 250 years.
“The Spode Blue Italian pattern celebrates its 200th anniversary this year, testament to our continuing commitment to quality, utility and beauty.”
Group sales & marketing director Phil Atherton added: “Portmeirion Group has been a major UK success story in the exporting of products to many international markets.
“Our diversified product range, supply base, wide markets and people are the key to our success. This award for excellence is great recognition for our skills and brands.”
