The Titanic and more than 1,500 passengers sank to their doom nearly 100 years ago – but the Staffordshire firm which supplied knives and forks to the tragic liner is still firmly afloat.
Lichfield-based Arthur Price continues to make considerable waves in the world of quality cutlery, a century after one of its most prestige orders ended up on the bed of the Atlantic.
The company, then based in Birmingham, supplied knives and forks to one of the restaurants on the Titanic, which sank in April 1912 with the loss of 1,523 lives.
Arthur Price still attracts prestigious customers, has been awarded two Royal Warrants, supplied the Savoy and received an order to supply cutlery for David Beckham’s wedding.
Now, to mark next year’s 100th anniversary of the loss of the Titanic, Arthur Price is issuing a 21st century version of its original range, designed specially for use by the liner’s first-class passengers. The Titanic centennial Panel Reed design features a full range of cutlery, from teaspoons through to cheese knives, with each knife adorned with ship owner The White Star Line’s famous logo.
Simon Price, chief executive of Arthur Price, said: “The tale of the Titanic has remained in my family for generations. It’s an honour for me to be able to commemorate this historic anniversary and pay tribute to the memory of those who lost their lives.
“The Titanic order would have been a great one for the company at the time as there would have been huge competition.
“My great-grandfather, the original Arthur Price, built this company on his belief in fine British craftsmanship and uncompromising quality, something we still stand by today. Although these commemorative pieces are for all Titanic collectors, they are also built for use every day and to stand the test of time.”
Arthur Price, which was founded in 1902, employs 200 people with manufacturing in Birmingham and Sheffield.
