Ceramic firms to fly the flag in North America

Three ceramics companies from Stoke-on-Trent are to show off their products to an international audience and help to promote investment in the city.

Keeling and Walker, James Kent Group and Mantec Technical Ceramics will fly out to the 2015 Ceramics Expo, in Cleveland, Ohio, in April. The firms will form part of the “World Capital of Ceramics” stand celebrating Stoke-on-Trent’s ceramic industry at the event.

The trip is being supported by the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire LEP through the Make It Stoke-on-Trent & Staffordshire Inward Investment Service, as well as by UK Trade & Investment, Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce and Stoke-on-Trent City Council.

The Ceramics Expo attracts up to 150 exhibitors and showcases materials, equipment, machinery and technology used within the ceramics manufacturing supply chain, as well as the latest industry innovations.

John Longmore, technical sales manager at James Kent Group, based in Fenton, said: “The Ceramics Expo will be an important shop window for us; it will be the first time we have attended such an exhibition in the USA. Getting face-to-face with a potential customer is the best way to showcase your company, to understand your customers’ needs, and to get your message across.”

Adrian Wake, sales manager at Mantec Technical Ceramics, based in Longton, said: “Nearly half of Mantec’s turnover comes from export sales and further growth in this area is expected as we implement our strategic plan for future growth. This expo is an important stepping stone.”

David Frost, chairman of the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire LEP, said: “Stoke-on-Trent is renowned as the world capital of ceramics and it’s only right that the Ceramics Expo delegates should hear about what the city is doing in terms of innovation and research into new manufacturing techniques. This trip is a great opportunity for local businesses to explore new market opportunities and tell overseas investors about the natural competitive advantages to being based in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.”