Ex-chief executive Ray Tarr has found a Polish backer to help him re-establish the tile business in the UK.

His backer Michal Solowow is one of Europe’s richest men, with business interests including ceramics manufacturer Cersanit.

Pilkington’s Tiles, which was based at Swinton, Greater Manchester, collapsed in 2010 with the loss of nearly 400 jobs. It is now being run from Stockport.

The new company, Pilkington’s Manufacturing has invested in warehousing and distribution facilities, and will be working with overseas factories in the design and development of a comprehensive range of Pilkington’s-branded ceramic, glazed and full-body porcelain tiles.

Tiles are currently being manufactured in Germany and Poland and will be back on the shelves by July.

Tarr told the Manchester Evening News: “Our ambition is to have 10% of the UK market, worth about £40m, in three years’ time.”

He has not ruled out a return to UK manufacture in the future.

“We have an investment fund and would love to establish manufacturing again in Greater Manchester, subject to how the business progresses, because I know the skills are here,” said Tarr.

Pilikington’s Quiligotti Terrazzo business was sold to the former management team last December