Tier Two membership of the University of Strathclyde’s Advanced Forming Research Centre (AFRC) is paying dividends for Gloucestershire-based cutting-tool manufacturer Quickgrind, after it won four new contracts within 16 months of signing up.

The company has benefitted from access to the AFRC’s engineering and industrial networks, allowing it to develop new relationships with key people in companies in a range of sectors.

One of these new relationships —with another AFRC member — has resulted in a contract with a leading aerospace company.

It has also provided reciprocal business benefits, as the two firms now collaborate regularly on technical innovations, best practice and generating publicity within their field.

Quickgrind’s technical support manager, Graeme Hogg, said: “You get out what you put in, and while we can’t be at the AFRC every day, we work hard to support the centre and exploit the many networking opportunities and events offered there.

“We’ve secured four new contracts off the back of our membership, as it has allowed us to meet representatives from interested firms in industries that we have been looking to target for some time.

“The events allow us all to meet face-to-face, and whatever the company size or industry, we're all on the same level.”

AFRC commercial director Lynne O’Hare said: “We know that membership brings significant benefits, but it is great to see Quickgrind working hard to maximise the opportunities for growth that we can provide.

“Some of our team have been to Quickgrind’s headquarters, and they were impressed by the level of positivity and innovation on display there.”