Starcke GmbH & Co. KG of Melle, Germany is a medium sized family run independent company in its 4th generation. Its origin dates back to before 1720, the name Starcke having been closely associated with the company since 1829. The company began with the trade of metal and household commodities, these being substituted by the manufacture of detergents, cleansing materials, and matches. By the end of the 19th century the production of the so called "emery and linen" was initiated. In the following years industrialisation progressed, consequently these items grew in significance. Nowadays these products are widely referred to as coated abrasives, they belong to the family of high quality tools. For over 100 years Starcke abrasive cloth and paper has given the master touch to a wide variety of surfaces, converting them into quality products. A diverse production programme is marketed through subsidiaries and independent sales channels worldwide.