Carrs Toolsteel Technologies, a company with a rich history dating back to 1901, stands as a testament to endurance and adaptability in the manufacturing sector. From its origins as a steel manufacturing site for the Trans-Siberian Railway in Russia, the company has navigated a century of change and shifts in the global market to become a leading independent tool steel stockholder.
From Railways to Reinvention: A Century of Steel
The company began as Richard W. Carrs, a family-owned steel manufacturing site in Sheffield. After being passed down through five generations, a management buyout in 1996 led to the establishment of the company's current site in the Black Country. In 2013, current managing director Andrew Eastwood and his colleague Julie Shields purchased the company, steering it into a new era of growth and innovation.
"We were the first tool steel supplier to offer in-house machining," says Andrew, highlighting the company's commitment to staying ahead of the curve. This focus on providing comprehensive services has been a key factor in Carrs' success. The company has also recently diversified into commercial aluminium to meet the evolving needs of its customer base.
Backing Britain: A Commitment to Quality
While the UK's manufacturing landscape has changed significantly, Carrs Toolsteel Technologies remains a strong advocate for the domestic supply chain. The company's customer base has shifted from large forges to tool makers and precision engineers. Carrs' steel is the starting point for many manufacturing processes, and the company plays a crucial role in supporting UK industries, particularly the automotive sector, which operates on a variable cycle of car redesigns.
Andrew acknowledges the challenge of competing with cheaper imports from countries like China. However, he emphasises the long-term value of a local supply chain. He says, "We're only as good as our reputation." Carrs' success is built on the premise that British-made products offer a superior combination of quality, service, and a responsive relationship with the customer. The company's ability to provide bespoke, one-off products and modifications is a distinct advantage over international competitors.
Forging the Future: Modernisation in Motion
Carrs is committed to staying at the forefront of the industry through continuous investment and innovation. The company has already replaced every single one of its saws since 2013 to improve cutting facilities and service.
A significant project underway is the shift to a paperless system. By using barcode readers to track materials and works orders, the company aims to streamline its processes, allowing for more efficient job management and a clearer picture of daily requirements. This system will ultimately change the way the business operates, allowing for real-time allocation decisions.
In addition to operational upgrades, the company has invested in solar panels on its roof, which currently generate about 30% of its energy needs. This not only reduces its carbon footprint but also provides a good return on investment. The company continues to look for ways to improve its infrastructure and offer enhanced services to its customers.
The Heart of the Operation: People and Reputation
Carrs Toolsteel Technologies prides itself on its close-knit, supportive work environment. The company boasts an impressive employee retention rate, with many staff members having worked there for decades. The longest-serving employee has been with the company for 33 years. This commitment to its staff is a cornerstone of the company's philosophy.
Carrs supports its employees' personal and professional growth, including their plans outside of the Carrs environment. "We try and help everybody... we don't want to hold anybody back," says Andrew. This ethos has created a loyal and skilled workforce, from long-serving veterans to apprentices who have grown with the company. The company's reputation for quality extends to its relationships with suppliers and customers. Andrew emphasises the importance of fairness and mutual respect, noting that Carrs works closely with a trusted network of suppliers and subcontractors to ensure consistency and reliability. This collaborative approach ensures that even in the face of unexpected challenges, the company can maintain its high standards.
The company's dedication to quality products, a strong UK supply chain, and a supportive work culture has solidified its position as a key player in the manufacturing industry. By focusing on what it can control—its products, services, and people—Carrs Toolsteel Technologies is well-equipped to face the challenges and opportunities of the future.