Member Spotlight: Valentine Clays Breaks New Ground with UK-First LoStone Innovation

At Ceramics UK, we are proud to champion the achievements of our members. This month, we shine a spotlight on Valentine Clays, a Stoke-on-Trent manufacturer breaking new ground in the ceramics industry.

As a family-run business, Valentine Clays has firmly established itself over the past 45 years as a world-leading clay manufacturer and raw materials supplier. Based in Stoke-on-Trent, the company develops ceramic clay bodies tailored to the specific needs of the ceramics industry, the education sector, and a long list of renowned British and international potters.

Valentine Clays is making waves with the launch of LoStone, a pioneering low-fire stoneware clay, the first of its kind in the UK. After decades of research and development, this innovative clay allows potters to enjoy the strength, stability, and surface quality of traditional stoneware, without the high energy costs or intense kiln temperatures.

LoStone makes stoneware accessible to a wider range of makers, from small studios to educational institutions, while delivering both creativity and sustainability benefits.

Hannah Ault, CEO of Valentine Clays and President of Ceramics UK, explains:

“Up to now, stoneware has been largely out of reach of the smaller pottery businesses. Requiring intense firing, it has been literally too hot to handle, with many potters’ kilns not having the capability to heat up to the required temperatures. For those that do, the additional energy costs are a burden.

“With LoStone, we can now put stoneware in the hands of many more creatives, and it’s exciting to see the opportunities this will bring for us nationally and internationally.”

Over the years, Valentine Clays has built a reputation for high-quality clays, producing more than 100 clay bodies designed for artists, hobbyists, educators, and professional ceramists.

Operating from its modern HQ in Fenton, the family-run business combines state-of-the-art manufacturing, expert technical support, and a strong commitment to nurturing the UK pottery community.

Hannah adds:

“A hallmark of our business is the work we do to foster a sense of community and collaboration among potters, artists and enthusiasts.

“Together we look at ways to meet their needs and continue to support the highest levels of creativity and craftmanship. The launch of LoStone reflects that approach.”

With LoStone and its new online retail platform, Valentine Clays is poised for national and international growth, reinforcing Stoke-on-Trent’s status as the heart of ceramics innovation.