Great Britian Discovers Frankoma Pottery

Monday, April 16th 2007, 4:00 pm

By: News On 6

When Frankoma Pottery was sold almost two years ago, the new owners believed they had to find new markets to be successful. The News On 6â€™s Rick Wells reports the hard work is beginning to pay off.

Frankoma Pottery has a tradition that dates back to the 30s.

"I think we're just seeing the tip of the iceberg, so we are very excited," said Frankoma Pottery owner Dat Merryman.

Excited because Frankoma just shipped its first container load of merchandise to England. A buyer from there stopped by one day, took some pieces back home, presented them to focus groups and the next thing they knew he ordered a container load.

"The exchange right now is in their favor, they can buy more from us than in years past," Merryman said.

What they are buying is new designs and new colors; in fact theyâ€™re so new they are only available at the factory, or in England. The new colors include plum jam, lavender wind and raspberry tart, and they are part of the Sweet Treats Collection.

The Frankoma showroom is busy, so is the factory they are preparing to ship a second load to England. The company is nowhere near the employment level of the old days, but they are adding people as business improves.

"Actually we are running 24 hours,â€ said Merryman. â€œWe have lots of room to grow."

Frankoma is also honoring Oklahomaâ€™s Centennial with a collectable plate. It features the scissortail flycatcher and the redbud tree, and was designed by artist Merv Jacob.

The new designs and colors as well as the Centennial Plate should be available online and at all Frankoma outlets, by the end of the month.

Related stories:

6/28/2005 - Frankoma Pottery Sold

7/2/2005 - Frankoma Pottery Reopens

8/11/2005 - Oklahoma Icon - Frankoma Pottery - Back In Business

For more information about Frankoma, visit their website, www.frankoma.com.