The Spode
The Portmeirion Group acquired Spode in 2009. With an outstanding product range and rich history that complemented Portmeirion's existing brands, Portmeirion felt it very important to keep this great British brand alive.
The Portmeirion Group are dedicated to the development of Spode, its product ranges and its valued customers. As such, Portmeirion have brought the manufacture of many items in Spode's iconic ranges back to Stoke-on-Trent - a decision that has been welcomed by Spode's customers and collectors, and the Stoke-on-Trent community.
History
Josiah Spode I (1733-1797) founded the Stoke-on-Trent based pottery company, Spode, in 1770. His inherent skills and sheer dedication to his business lead to two major achievements that would redefine the pottery industry:
The development of a winning formula for fine bone china.
The perfection of blue under-glaze printing
After successes working for many of the best potters in the Stoke-on-Trent area, including Thomas Whieldon, Josiah I set up his own small pottery factory in 1760 and in 1770 established the Spode pottery company.
It was of superior quality and strong whilst also having the look of being delicate. It was this formula that made the Spode name famous across the globe.
BLUE ITALIAN
Launched in 1816 and still manufactured today, Blue Italian is now considered a design icon. Inspired by scenes of the Italian countryside featuring remarkably detailed figures amongst Roman ruins and framed by an 18th century Imari Oriental border, the incredibly detailed design captures the essence of a sunny Italian day to great effect.
Launched in 1816, Blue Italian is one of the collections that secured Spode's reputation as a leader in the ceramic industry; it is now one of Spode’s most collected ranges and is still made to this very day.
These blue and white collections were not only popular in Britain but also in America where the tableware reminded the settlers of home. After this huge success, Spode’s collections were quickly copied by competitors but no other range could equal the detail and quality that Josiah I instilled into his ware.
VISITORS INFORMATION:
Address:
Portmeirion Group UK Ltd
London Road
Stoke-on-Trent
ST4 7QQ
England