Ceramic tableware producer Churchill China has reported £1.6 million profit- a 12 per cent increase from the previous year.

Churchill China are embarking on an expansion plan, estimated to cost approximately £1.4 million. The planned factory extension is likely to lead to additional jobs at Churchill, which already employs about 550 workers.

Alan McWalter, chairman of Churchill China, said: “We have delivered further growth against strong comparative figures and the hospitality business has again achieved a record performance.

“We are confident that the continued growth of our markets and the strength of our position within them will enable us to meet our expectations for the full year.”

One area in which Churchill China performed especially well in was its export sales to Europe, despite a weak Euro. This was an improvement of nine per cent on the previous year.

The good news about Churchill China’s performance is good news for the city, according to Stoke North MP Ruth Smeeth. She said, “The ongoing success of Churchill China is fantastic news, not only for the company and the industry, but also for the city.

“These results demonstrate the commitment of the workforce and management to the ongoing production of world class products, and the expansion in Tunstall will ensure that Churchill continues to thrive and be a boon for the city.”

Laura Cohen, chief executive of the British Ceramic Confederation, addedd: “These are really good results in a fiercely competitive global market.

“It is great that exports are growing too, including in Europe, and despite the strong pound.

“It is excellent that Churchill is investing in increased UK manufacturing capacity, particularly in added value products and this investment will continue throughout this year and 2016.”