Founded in 1960 by Susan Williams-Ellis and Euan Cooper-Willis, Portmeirion started off as just a supplier for the gift shop in Portmeirion, Wales. By starting with very simple designs, they grew to be one of the largest pottery makers in Stoke. After the release of the Totem pattern in 1963 and the Botanical Garden pattern in the early 1970’s, Portmeirion became the largest tableware seller in the world. Now in the 21st century, Portmeirion Potteries has a strong following in the USA and has an established reputation for quality and innovation.