Economic impact through improved product and process development within Carron Phoenix

Narrative

Initial research into polymer nanocomposites and their formation took place at Strathclyde from 2000 – 2010. This was followed by a collaboration with the world’s largest manufacturer of composite kitchen sinks, Carron Phoenix Limited, through a 6-year Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) which resulted in a successful new production process of its high-end synthetic granite kitchen sinks. This led to £4 million of capital investment in new production facilities at their Falkirk site, enabling the company to sustain its leading position in the designer kitchen sink market and retain its workforce of over 400 employees in central Scotland, including the 170 workers in the composite sink division in Falkirk. Within the REF period, the research has led to the manufacture and sale of in excess of one million kitchen sinks, generating sales revenue in excess of over £50M and supporting the UK economy.

Impact status	Open
Category of impact	Economic and commerce, Professional practice, training and standards, Environment and sustainability - natural world and built environment
Impact level	Benefit