The Harrogate-based research and training company that used to trade under the FCRA name went into liquidation in 2000.
David Dore, chief executive of Quill told LCN that his company bought the FCRA name and logo from the liquidator around 18 months ago, competing against five other bids in open tender. Mr Dore said that, at the time, he had no definite plans for the name, although he had some thoughts about establishing a full research operation independent of the laundry industry. Quill covers different industries and all its companies are manufacturers.
Though this idea has not yet been pursued, other applications have emerged and the name and logo, which have been registered by Quill International Industries, are currently used in three ways:
1. in patent applications for new products developed by Quill International industries and subsequently in manufacturing licensing agreements worldwide
2. in fast opinions and reports by Powles Hunt on specific customer problems - Mr Dore says the company has a huge databank to draw on in making these reports and will bring in independent test houses where needed
3. where research has to be presented outside the company, the FCRA name may be used.
Would the use of the FCRA name be extended? Mr Dore would not commit himself on this point, but said that the idea of establishing a research body has not been ruled out and is still under consideration.
