Darwen Terracotta Transitions to Employee Ownership Following Decade of Growt

Darwen Terracotta, the UK-based specialist manufacturer of architectural terracotta and faience, has successfully transitioned to employee ownership through the establishment of an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT).

The milestone comes as the business celebrates a decade of continuous growth in 2025, marking ten years since its remarkable rebirth following the 2015 closure of a long-established ceramic manufacturer whose architectural division ceased trading. That closure resulted in the redundancy of more than 40 skilled craftspeople, placing centuries-old British ceramic expertise at risk.

Determined to preserve these rare skills and safeguard the legacy of architectural ceramics in the UK, former colleagues Jon Wilson and Steve Allen — both personally affected by the closure — rebuilt the business from the ground up. Rehiring many of those impacted, they established Darwen Terracotta as a new force within the industry.

Over the past ten years, the company has grown to become the UK’s largest manufacturer of architectural terracotta, the only British-owned producer of both architectural terracotta and fireclay sinks, and the third-largest global specialist in terracotta restoration. It continues to support major restoration and new-build projects, supplying bespoke architectural ceramics to clients worldwide.

Using the same premium, locally sourced clay, the business also expanded into the manufacture of luxury fireclay sinks under its sister brand, Whitebirk Sink Company. The products carry a lifetime warranty and are trusted by customers both nationally and internationally.

The transition to employee ownership places staff firmly at the heart of the company’s future. Through the EOT structure, ownership passes into a trust on behalf of employees, ensuring those who have contributed to the company’s success will share in its long-term prosperity while securing the independence of the business.

The transaction was led by Logros Advisory Partners, acting as corporate finance adviser to the shareholders. Legal advice was provided by Forbes Solicitors, with funding support from HSBC.

Steve Allen, Director of Darwen Terracotta, said:
“Transitioning the business to employee ownership was a decision driven by people and legacy. We wanted to ensure the business remained independent, that our employees were recognised for the role they have played in building it, and that the company was set up for long-term continuity. Logros supported us throughout the process and helped deliver an outcome that feels right for the business and everyone involved.”

Brian Higgins, Managing Partner at Logros Advisory Partners, added:
“Employee ownership can be an excellent solution for founders seeking to realise their investment in a business, while still protecting the culture, people and long-term future of the business. This transaction was about creating continuity, rewarding employees and delivering a structured and considered ownership transition.”

David Filmer of Forbes Solicitors commented:
“This was a well-structured Employee Ownership Trust transaction that balanced the objectives of the shareholders with the long-term interests of the business and its employees. We were delighted to have assisted in the process.”

Jenny Taylor of HSBC said:
“Supporting an Employee Ownership Trust requires a clear understanding of the business and its future plans. Early engagement allowed the funding structure to be aligned with long-term sustainability, ensuring continuity for the business and its employees.”

Based in Darwen, Lancashire, Darwen Terracotta has built a strong reputation for craftsmanship, technical expertise and the manufacture of bespoke architectural ceramics. The move to employee ownership secures the long-term independence of the business while recognising the contribution of the employees who have helped build its success.

Logros Advisory Partners continues to advise business owners across the UK on exit planning and ownership transitions, including Employee Ownership Trusts, management buyouts, family successions and strategic sales.

For further information, please contact:
Lee Dinsdale
Managing Partner
Logros Advisory Partners

Photo credit: Clive Lawrence