It's been a week of celebration at Valentine Clays as our award-winning low-firing clay body, LoStone, continues to receive industry recognition.
We are delighted to announce that Valentine Clays has been named Winner of the Innovation, Science & Technology Award at this year's Staffordshire Chambers Business Awards.
With an exceptionally strong field of finalists, winning the award was a proud moment for the entire team and recognition of the innovation, technical expertise and collaboration that brought LoStone from concept to reality.
Developed to help ceramicists reduce firing temperatures without compromising on quality, LoStone represents a significant step forward in sustainable ceramics. By achieving vitrification at lower temperatures, the range offers makers the opportunity to reduce energy consumption while maintaining the performance, strength and reliability they expect from Valentine Clays.
At the heart of the innovation is Technical Manager, Mark Cumberlidge, whose expertise and years of research played a pivotal role in developing the unique LoStone recipe. While Mark is never one to seek the spotlight, his contribution has been instrumental in creating a product that is changing the way many ceramicists think about firing.
However, bringing LoStone to market has been a true team effort. From research and development, production and quality control to sales, marketing, warehousing and customer service, every department has played a vital role in transforming an ambitious idea into an award-winning product now used by makers across the UK and beyond.
As if one celebration wasn't enough, we're also thrilled to announce that Valentine Clays has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Science & Innovation category at the Staffordshire University Business Awards, once again in recognition of LoStone's impact and innovation.
The awards will take place this September, giving the team another exciting milestone to look forward to.
Hannah Ault, CEO of Valentine Clays, said:
"To receive this level of recognition for LoStone is incredibly rewarding. Innovation has always been at the heart of what we do, but innovation only happens because of the talented people behind it. This recognition belongs to every member of our team who has contributed their expertise, passion and commitment throughout the development and launch of LoStone. We're immensely proud of what we've achieved together and excited to see what comes next."
As a third-generation family business based in Stoke-on-Trent, Valentine Clays has spent over 45 years developing ceramic materials that support makers, manufacturers and educators. The success of LoStone reflects the company's continued investment in research, product development and sustainable innovation, ensuring British ceramics continues to lead the way.
With one award already in the cabinet and another opportunity on the horizon, it's certainly been a memorable week for Team Valentine.