Delft Blue maker worried about consequences of American policy

Porcelain producer Royal Delft, the maker of Delft Blue, fears that uncertainty about policy in the United States could weigh on sales. The uncertainty in the company’s most important export market could affect consumer confidence, tourism, and costs, Royal Delft warns in its annual results.

The porcelain producer reports that people have bought more Delft Blue and other products mainly via the webshop last year. Sales by tourists and the business market have also increased. Royal Delft’s turnover increased by 3.8 percent to 8.7 million euros in 2024.

Royal Delft wants to continue to grow this year but does not dare to make any concrete expectations for 2024. There is uncertainty about American policy under Donald Trump, who took office in January. The company also referred to the global unrest caused by conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

Despite the higher turnover, Royal Delft made a loss in 2024. According to the company, this is largely due to depreciation on real estate investments, among other things. The net loss amounted to 22,000 euros. In 2023, it still recorded a profit of 179,000 euros.

More people visited the museum and the shop in Delft last year, CEO Hessel Hoekstra reported with the results. The number of visitors rose to 142,000 compared to 126,000 in 2023. However, people spent less money on average during their visit.