April/May 2026
housewareslive.net
NEWS Hobbs to close after 32 years as Owner Jeremy retires
30 as owner Jeremy retires. The much-loved Causewayhead shop has been part of the local high street for 32 years, becoming a familiar destination for generations of local shoppers. In a statement to customers, the Hobbs team said: “After 32 successful years of trading in Penzance, the owner Jeremy is retiring and the shop in Causewayhead will close.” The team confirmed they will continue serving customers until the final day of trading on June 30. To mark the closing period, Hobbs has launched a major in-store
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promotion beginning on May 12, offering customers a three-for-two discount across all stock. The statement added: “If there’s something (or a few things) that you’ve had your eye on — don’t delay. Spread the word — when it’s
fter more than three decades serving the people of Penzance, independent homeware retailer Hobbs has announced it will close its doors for the final time on June
gone, it’s gone.” Hobbs also used the announcement to thank customers for
supporting the independent retailer over the years. “Without all of you, supporting independents and using your local shops, Hobbs would not have been here so long,” the team said. “We will miss you.”
Morphy Richards celebrates launch of New Artisan-Inspired Clay Collection at historic Middleport Pottery
M
orphy Richards celebrated the launch of its new artisan- inspired Clay Collection with a
special event at the iconic Middleport Pottery in Stoke-on-Trent on April 28, paying tribute to the city’s world- renowned ceramic and pottery heritage. With Morphy Richards’ UK headquarters also based in Stoke-on- Trent, the event brought the story behind the Clay range to life in an authentic and meaningful setting, deeply rooted in the region’s craftsmanship traditions. Guests, including buyers, press and
content creators, spent the afternoon exploring the collection and learning more about the design inspiration behind the range, which draws heavily from the textures, finishes and artistry synonymous with Stoke-on-Trent ceramics. The experience continued with a guided tour of the historic pottery site followed by pottery painting activities — a moment that truly captured the spirit and creativity behind Clay.
David Foulstone, Commercial Director at Morphy Richards UK, commented: “Inspired by tradition and crafted for today, this new collection is not an imitation, but definitive and unique in its look. The Clay range reflects the deep-rooted pottery traditions of Stoke- on-Trent. It was fantastic to welcome buyers, press, creators and more to experience the range in such an authentic and meaningful way, helping us tell the story behind the collections design.” Taking inspiration from handcrafted
ceramics, the Clay collection features uneven surfaces and organic textures designed to create a more natural, rustic aesthetic. Even the logo has been embossed to replicate the tactile feel of ceramic pottery, while wooden finish details further enhance the collection’s artisan appeal. The range colourways — Felspar, Flint
and White China — have all been inspired by classic ceramic finishes synonymous with the pottery industry.
Blue Diamond names Hospice UK as Charity Partner of the Year
G
arden centre group Blue Diamond Garden Centres has announced Hospice UK as its Charity Partner of the Year, with a programme of fundraising and
awareness activity planned across its sites. Hospice UK is the national charity supporting more than 200 hospices across the country, working to ensure people can access high-quality end-of-life care, as well as support for families during difficult times. As part of the partnership, teams across Blue Diamond’s centres will take part in a range of initiatives throughout the year aimed at raising both funds and awareness for hospice care. The collaboration is also intended to highlight the vital role hospices play within communities across the UK. A key moment in the partnership will come at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, where a special rose will be launched, with £1 from every plant sold donated directly to Hospice UK.
Blue Diamond said the partnership reflects its commitment to supporting meaningful causes and bringing teams together to make a positive impact, while helping to raise awareness of the importance of hospice care nationwide.
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