As part of Sheffield’s celebrations to mark 100 years since the discovery of stainless steel, Ancon has created a stylish Centenary Bench, which it has donated to the City’s Millennium Gallery where it will remain on permanent display and in regular use by visitors.

Ancon joined forces with local designer, David Appleyard, for this one-off project which was launched at the 2013 Galvanize festival of contemporary metal; an event held annually in Sheffield to celebrate the Steel City’s continuing endeavour, creativity and craftsmanship in everything metal from jewellery to tools.

This Galvanize-inspired initiative succeeded in bringing the city’s art world and rich industrial heritage together in an unlikely partnership between a local artist and a large, international manufacturer. With origins in 1882, Ancon is one of the Sheffield’s longest established steel fabrication businesses and specialises in working with stainless steels.

The museum’s Centenary Bench is part of a larger collection produced by Ancon, including a replica bench and two individual seats, which will be displayed at various design shows worldwide to promote the Galvanize Festival, and the City’s metalworking skills, to an international audience.

Ancon was delighted to be involved in this unique and prestigious project, contributing time, materials and expertise throughout 2013.

Ancon Marketing Manager, Annabelle Wilson, explained why the project was important to the company,

“Although we are an international business with operations in Mainland Europe, the Middle East and Australia, Sheffield is still at our heart. Our headquarters are located in the city and there is pride throughout the workforce that we continue to export Sheffield-made steel products worldwide. We are therefore delighted to have been given this opportunity to showcase our expertise, give something back to the city and join the stainless steel centenary celebrations.