Advising Royal Crown Derby on its sale to Steellite International

Royal Crown Derby and Steelite International share a bond which spans many decades, having both been part of the former Royal Doulton Group and both choosing to become privately owned enterprises committed to the highest quality UK manufacture.

Based in Stoke-on-Trent, Steelite International is a world-leading manufacturer and supplier of award-winning, inspirational tabletop ranges for the international hospitality industry, and has a turnover exceeding £66million a year.

The business sale, which took place on Tuesday 18 December 2012, sees Royal Crown Derby remain in independent hands and firmly committed to manufacturing in the Midlands. Production of the brand’s world-famous china and giftware, which dates back to 1750, will remain in Derby.

Kevin Oakes, Chief Executive of Steelite International, commented on the business acquisition:

“This is excellent news for both companies.  Like us, Royal Crown Derby has a first-class reputation across the globe and we know that our expertise as a major ceramics industry player can only strengthen the business offering from Royal Crown Derby and ensure they reach new heights of success.”

A spokesperson for our Corporate & Finance team added:

“We are really pleased that production of Royal Crown Derby’s products will remain in Derby. Not only does this retain the skills of a 200-strong workforce in the City, but ensures that one of the world’s best-loved bone china manufacturing brands remains in the Midlands.”