Case Studies
J Hudson & Co (Whistles) Ltd
Company Information
Regarded as one of the finest whistle manufacturers in the world, Acme Whistles Ltd has been designing and manufacturing whistles for over 130 years. It is especially famous for the production of whistles for the Titanic, which were subsequently used in the film "Titanic". This resulted in a significant number of orders for reproduction whistles manufactured using the original tooling.
Initial market research conducted by the company showed market opportunities for the production of a high value added jewelled whistle. As this was a new departure for them and necessitated both design and manufacturing advice, the managing director Simon Topman sought help to develop this new product and their existing product range.
Brief
The JIIC were asked to undertake additional market research, develop a range of high value added whistle designs, and offer advice and guidance on manufacturing processes. The brief included design, CAD/CAM, production and process advice, and the introduction of West Midlands manufacturers and suppliers to the company, to enable them to add the new high value whistles to their existing range.
Impact
- The first silver, diamond encrusted whistle to be manufactured has helped the company break into new markets and validated this new departure.
- The company has increased sales, gained new clients and developed a new bespoke market.
- Further designs produced by the JIIC for Hudson's are in the manufacturing development stage, and will be launched in the near future.
The market research, designs and manufacturing knowledge from JIIC moved this project forward. Working with the JIIC widened the client's knowledge of new markets and appropriate available technology for product development and manufacture. JIIC introduced Hudson's Whistles to different skills and expertise within the West Midlands manufacturing community to further establish technical and commercial feasibility.