Materials Analysis and Research Services CIC

Carrs is the leading manufacturer is the leading manufacturer of silverware in the UK. The company has partnered with the Materials Analysis and Research Services CIC (MARS CIC) to develop new sterling silver alloy compositions.

Products made from sterling silver tarnish, this is also known as sulphidisation. This is initially seen as a yellow discoloration, which eventually becomes blue-black. Removal of tarnish can only be done by regular and extensive polishing, or by damaging chemical treatment. The need to maintain expensive products has lead to increased customer dissatisfaction and the silverware industry has experienced a decline in sales. Traditional sterling silver contains copper, and heating during production (soldering or annealing) creates firestain, which is oxidation on the surface. Firestain is removed by repeated polishing, chemical treatment or by overplating; all expensive and time-consuming manufacturing processes.

The task for the MARS CIC was to work closely with Carrs to develop a new sterling silver alloy that resists tarnishing. With its world-class research and technical support, and the experience of sterling silver alloys within Carrs, the result was Carrs Lustre Silver - by far the most tarnish-resistant product available today, and one which also eliminates the firestain problem. Most of Carrs' production is now made with Carrs Lustre Silver, and the company has reversed a three year decline in sales of finished silverware. A small percentage increase has been seen, and this is projected to be 10-15% in two years. The company has maintained its market share and safeguarded 180 jobs, through increased demand. A new business unit has been created for the supply of the new alloy as sheet, rod, bar and grain to other manufacturers throughout the world, which will add to turnover. Worldwide interest in the product has been huge. Many leading European manufacturers are in advanced stages of trialling.

Negotiations with companies in India and Thailand are underway for licensed production of non-competing products. The huge US market is now starting to show interest. The worldwide market for silverware, jewellery and coins is enormous, up to £10bn every year. The eventual impact of Lustre Silver has been likened to that of stainless steel on the steel industry. In addition to its collaborative role during the development stages, the CIC helped to guide the company through the patenting and licensing process, and continue to provide technical support.

For further information visit:
www.carrs-silver.co.uk
www.marscic.co.uk

Benefits of Carrs collaboration with the Materials Analysis and Research Services CIC:

    * Increased turnover
    * Access to new markets
    * 180 jobs safeguarded
    * Enhanced company reputation for innovation