Solid Wood Processing

Robert Blumsom is not afraid of change. In a market that has seen independent timber mills become engulfed by nationwide timber merchants, Blumsom Timber Centre has grown and diversified, while maintaining the core values etched into the company’s 124-year history. Its dedication to its customers, unique service-based business model and the unwavering importance placed on innovation has led the Barking-based company to embark on a 30-year relationship with German machinery manufacturer, Weinig, that is as firm today as it was then.

The power of change

“We’ve never been a company that stands still,” begins Robert Blumsom, chairman of Blumsom Timber Centre and founder of Blumsom Custom Milling. “In 1980, I was the fourth generation to run the family business. I could see a need to expand our operation if we wanted to do more than just thrive in an extremely competitive market.

“Peers called me crazy for opening an on-site mill – which in turn has seen us become a secure part of the supply chain in the south – and my decision to work with FSC timber before it became an industry standard was questioned by many. But I knew that I needed to invest in the company’s future and I knew I needed Blumsom’s offering to be different.”

Investment came in the form of an advanced on-site machining facility that could offer a quick turnaround time and no minimum order quantity on solid wood and MDF mouldings. “To provide this service, we needed the best moulders on the market, and Weinig was the only manufacturer that could supply us with the kit we needed,” admits Robert.

“We haven’t looked back, and, as a result, over time, we’ve been able to reduce labour costs by -35% and process three times as many timber mouldings on half the number of machines.”

More recently, the company has undergone a £1m invest project that has seen the full renovation of its workshop and storage facilities and the introduction of a brand-new Weinig P1500 moulder – the first of its kind in the UK – designed to streamline production, secure short lead times and increase machining efficiencies.

“We knew we needed a highly specified machine to fit into our manufacturing process, and Weinig delivered,” says Robert. “We were already running two Powermat moulders to create standard hardwood profiles – including architraves, door frames, door stops and lippings – and non-standard profiles specified by architects. But we lacked flexibility when it came to working from cuttings lists with multiplesized components. Our processes weren’t cost effective, and at times we would outsource jobs, reducing our margins further.”

To overcome this, the new Powermat 1500 was built with a universal head and a second right head that can be inclined to 45˚ – a unique offering, created for the longstanding timber specialist.

These options gave Blumsom the extra flexibility it needed, and reduced the number of tools required. The added 310mm width capacity, and variable speed of 4-12,000rpm (controlled through the Powercom system) also lent itself to broader production capabilities and in turn, future-proofed the investment. “The universal head has stopped us having to take projects offsite – especially door frames with 3D groove positions on the bottom, side and top, which we can now machine effectively ourselves,” says Robert. “This shortens the supply chain, gives us complete control over our production and, ultimately, reduces costs.

“The moulder’s quick set-up time, ability to switch from short to long runs, and its capacity to adjust PAR from one size to another without us having to turn off the machine, has also reduced downtime and positively impacted on our own lead times, whilst its production accuracy means we can ensure a high-quality product every time.

“Many of our competitors have a standard 14day lead time, but because we can now control the entire process, our customers know their order can be with them in five to seven days. We’ve even been able to complete an order in less than three days for a customer who was up against it.

“That’s the beauty of an independent – we are not answerable to anyone. and go the extra mile. If it came down to price and price alone, people would simply endure long 14-day lead times from a nationwide depot, but our customers expect more than that. Their livelihoods depend on it.” Robert adds: “We are so proud of our history and what we have achieved. My son, Freddie, has recently taken on the role of chairman, and he too has the foresight to invest

“Weinig’s machinery and technology has helped us stay ahead of the curve, and I can honestly say that without them, we wouldn’t have a business today”

in innovation – this is why we’ve been steaming ahead with our £1m investment programme. We know the industry will change and we know we’ll have to change our processes to remain relevant – but, like all things, change offers opportunities.

“Looking back, as soon as I could afford to buy new machinery, I bought the very best on the market. Did the company need it? Not at the time – we could have settled for a lesser model. But are we better off for it now? Absolutely. Weinig’s machinery and technology has helped us stay ahead of the curve, and I can honestly say that without them, we wouldn’t have a business today. Here’s to the next 124 years.” www.weinig.co.uk ››

Additional Powermat 1500 features include:

• 4-12,000 rpm spindle speed for more linear production without sacrificing high surface quality. • Efficient dust extraction with reduced air velocity. Intuitive machine control with Powercom Plus, making swift dimensional or profile changes possible. • Ease of operation via the Comfort Set for safe and fast setup. • Workpiece monitoring that allows dimensional changes while the machine is running. • SmartTouch, with a mobile tablet supplementing the main control unit. • Comfort Set for wrench-free adjustment of pressure and guiding elements. • Textured surfaces on ornamental mouldings with irregular surfaces are almost unlimited.

Two machines are seeing significant enquiry growth ahead of 2021 – here’s why…

by Alex Dalton, director at Daltons Wadkin

As we know, most industries take a seasonal approach to selling product. Recently, we have just had Halloween and Guy Fawkes night. Next on the agenda is Christmas. Despite the ongoing pandemic, retailers will have been prepared for these high-profile national events many months in advance, with their stock and inventory ordered as far back as the beginning of the summer.

Using our industry as an example, though, when businesses look to invest in their machinery, it is usually done at the opposite end of the season they are targeting, as they want to disrupt the existing production.

With one eye already on spring across our industry, we have seen a significant surge recently in enquiries about two particular machines – Stenner band resaws and Salvador automatic crosscut saws.

Why these two particular machines?

Due to the impact of Covid-19 and the fact that we’re still in the dark as to how long we’re going to be dealing with the repercussions of this virus, the gardening industry is set for a huge boom in 2021, and companies right across the country are making sure they’re prepared for it.

Many within the sector were caught off-guard by the sudden surge earlier this year as lockdown took effect and big family holidays abroad were cancelled – leading to many people across our country turning to get those jobs done that they had been putting off, or getting stuck into outdoor renovation jobs themselves.

However, the gardening season is done for 2020. The last lawn cuts are being completed, the summer work is finished, and homeowners won’t really be thinking about it again until spring next year.

And now our industry is preparing for that, with many companies looking to purchase multiples or combinations of Stenner band resaws and Salvador automatic crosscuts machines in anticipation of that next boom.

Here’s why businesses are, particularly, looking to get their hands on these two key pieces of equipment.

Why are the Stenner band resaws and Salvador automatic crosscut saws proving so popular? The Stenner band resaw is, essentially, the Rolls Royce of band resaws. They’re used for ripping down lengths of solid timber. They’re used a lot by sawmills, timber merchants, joinery companies, hardwood importers, and anyone processing solid wood.

In particular, Stenner is geared towards higher production, and with the expected increase in relation to garden furniture and products, businesses are looking for ways to upscale their production output. That is particularly the case with garden furniture, including sheds, garden offices and fencing products, for which there continues to be huge demand.

That ties in with the Salvador product, which is an automatic crosscut saw also used for solid timber processing in joinery production, pallet and case manufacturers, garden furniture, and timber-frame building, and is a huge labour-saving machine (compared to the more traditional methods for crosscutting timber).

People that invest in these are often using manual crosscutting techniques. Typically, a Salvador can replace up to four or five manual operations, and in so doing reduce the amount of waste they’re producing.

They also provide better accuracy of cut, and require fewer people to use them. There are a bunch of long-term savings that come with purchasing machines like this. They have got a proven track record that is easily demonstrable to enquiring customers.

There are other machines in the market – but rather than these machines being sold on price, they’re sold on overall performance and what they can deliver, namely outstanding value for money, backed by Daltons Wadkin’s industry-leading support services department.

Both machines are incredibly flexible, too. When it comes to hi-tech production machines, these are the best that there are on the market.

www.daltonswadkin.com

Salvador automatic crosscut

Intorex, based just outside Barcelona, is recognised throughout the world as a premier manufacturer of both CNC lathes and CNC between centres five-axis machining centres.

Intorex – CNC wood-turning solutions

These machines can be used to produce a wide variety of turned and shaped products for solid wood furniture, stair parts and some special commissions, such as a machine for producing hurley sticks. Whilst Intorex manufactures a standard range of CNC machinery, in many cases the final configuration is specifically designed to suit a customer’s individual production requirements.

The CNC lathe range consists of three different models – the entry-level CNB 1500, the mid-range CKI 1500/2000, and lastly the top-of-the-range CKX – which can be supplied with a maximum working length capacity of 600, 1300 or 1600mm.

All of these machines are quick and simple to set up, as no sample or template is needed – instead, profiles to be turned are easily created on the resident IntorEDIT design software which is supplied as standard across the range.

All machines feature two independent CNCcontrolled gouges – one for roughing and the other for finishing – and, thanks to the CNC control, it is possible to achieve impressive quality and definition of the turned parts. On request, the CKI and CKX models can be fitted with an optional fourth CNC-controlled axis, on which either a router unit, inclinable milling unit or sanding head can be mounted. In addition to the two standard CNC gouges and the hydraulic pre-rounding gouge, this makes the lathes extremely versatile.

Although there is the option of an inbuilt sanding unit on the lathes, Intorex also supplies the LNX CNC rotary sander that would usually work in conjuction with a CKX lathe. In this case, they can be operated as two standalone machines – or, on request, a robot arm can be specified to automatically take the turned piece from the lathe and load it into the sander.

For the volume production of small turned parts up to 300mm long (such as sofa feet) there is the all-new CNC CRM rotary lathe and sander combination. For the production of small items such as knobs and caps there is the TRD65 model. Intorex also manufactures the HB65 dowel rounding machine.

Last, but certainly not least, there is the range of TMC and TKC five-axis CNC machining centres, which can be used to produce both standard turned parts and more complex shaped parts. These machines are equipped with automatic loading, shaping head, sanding head and sawblade and/or gouge for turning. There is also an overhead router head with a 10-position rotary toolchanger. Working lengths can be either 1500 or 3000mm.

There are many successful Intorex machine installations in the UK, with a number of customers having two, three or more machines.

For further details, contact exclusive UK partner JJ Smith on 0151 548 9000, email sales@jjsmith.co.uk, or visit www.jjsmith.co.uk.

“2020 has been an incredibly surprising and successful year for us,” states Christian Salvador, co-founder of Salvamac Group. “Undoubtedly, the effects linked to the pandemic, the uncertainty of demand and the absence of fairs to present our new products did not help us, but the passion, the knowledge of the market and an innovative vision linked to new technological solutions allowed the group to achieve a truly record year!

Record year for Salvamac Group

“Indeed, in 2020 we have been leaders both in terms of sales and turnover (acquiring important market shares, even at the expense of our competitors), but above all we have been able to launch the new Salvamac Group.”

With this in mind, Salvamac has grown exponentially over the year and has been grouped into three divisions: Cross-cutting, specialised in the cutting and optimisation of wood; Air&Painting, representing the reference point for air suction and filtration systems and wood varnishing; and finally the brand-new Salvamac Selection, an innovation which has naturally and greatly evolved from the Salvamac project.

“Therefore, we significantly enlarged our range of products, added new innovations to the existing ones, expanded our structures and, going against the tide, greatly increased our investments for the future,” explains Christian.

The success of Salvamac Group stems from Salvamac’s Cross-Cutting division, which is fueled by the experience of the company’s founders in the field of automatic and semiautomatic machines for wood cutting.

In 2020, among the aggregates, the electronic SalvaStop_100 has been both confirmed and had a strong technological evolution – it is a system that electronically manages the stop and positioning of the bars or profiles, of any material, to be cut with high speed and absolute precision, thanks to special mechanical solutions and the latest-generation electronic brushless motor.

Salvamac’s recent developments allow SalvaStop to cut boards longer than 7m and to communicate with external IT systems, thus directly importing data and bills from company management software. This is an example of how the concepts of Industry 4.0 can also be applied to standalone machines, which offer important performances with limited investment.

It should also be noted that SalvaStop can be installed on the Salvamac semi-automatic and manual crosscut saws, which require limited investment, but are a decisive step towards faster, safer and more effective production.

In 2020, this path was enriched and completed with the presentation of the new version of the innovative optimising saw, SalvaPush

2000. “Optimising wood cutting for the needs of individual customers is part of our DNA,” continues Ziemowit Dolkowksi, a Salvamac partner, “and this is just the beginning. We have created a very flexible and cutting-edge technical solution for improving single boards with defects and qualities or even packs of boards, using the most advanced technologies at a reasonable price.”

SalvaPush 2000 comes with a brand-new software version that is easily manageable, like a smartphone, with website graphics and all the convenience of data setting via a large touchscreen, all electronic components being connected in digital communication. ‘We significantly enlarged our range of products, added new innovations to the existing ones, expanded our structures and, going against the tide, greatly increased our investments for the future’

Moreover, there are new exclusive mechanical solutions, both for the cutting and the pusher systems, that have become part of the complete digital management of the machine’s communication systems – not only within their electronic components, but towards external IT systems. 2020 was also a year of strong international growth for the new Air&Painting division. During the year, this part of the group has increasingly specialised in suction systems, among which the launch of the new SuperDep filter has taken hold, becoming its bestselling product. In particular, the mobile dust extractors of the SuperDep series have been designed and manufactured using the highest technologies to be very versatile, take up little space, and be suitable for indoor and outdoor use – extremely functional in extracting dust and wood chips.

The automatic compressed air cleaning system makes them the right ally for those working in the industrial sector of woodworking, achieving a residual dust content of less than 0.1mg/m3. The filters are thus compliant with the residual dust level H3 because of the fan, which is positioned in such a way as to obtain a negative pressure, preventing the escape of dust in the event of a leak.

Finally,the new Salvamac Group project has led to the creation of the third division, the Salvamac Selection – a selection of different products with the same culture and philosophy that distinguishes Salvamac itself.

It is a novelty that its creators, Christian and Ziemowit, define as a revolutionary approach to the market. “Unlike others, we have always believed in the importance of union and aggregation,” they say, “and we think that today there is an opportunity for a changing development, with strong and positive effects – even in the immediate future! Our network and its strength have allowed us to introduce new products focused on the solid wood industry every month.”

In this context, Salvamac has just launched the new Professional Multi-Function and Mobile Table Friend_300, with an adjustable height. Stability, safety, manageability and comfort are some of the features that make Friend_300 truly supportive.

Working with the utmost simplicity, this safe, professional table is on hand to help the operator in their daily work – the “perfect aid” for reducing operators’ efforts, as it can be used as support for storage, loading, unloading and transport, and as a real workstation.

The last months of 2020 in particular completed Salvamac’s record year, with the presentation of some products that will certainly represent another growth opportunity for the Italian-Polish company.

The sturdy new briquetting presses of the Leader 50-60-70 series was created, which can be combined with Salvamac’s relative filters, thus forming a single waste treatment line.

Finally, Salvamac Selection launched its most recent innovations – the new radial arm saws of the FlixCut series and the Run feed units – confirming the continuous development within the group, which is set to continue to surprise and impress in the coming year.

www.salvamac.com

Since starting in 2007, AMS has been working to provide a quality, safe-and-easy-operation planer moulder to its spare parts, tooling and training offering. It has been working to train its engineers to become planer-moulder experts with just one objective in mind – to cover all customers’ needs, from when they go to the AMS showroom for a demo, until they need a new cutterhead or an engineer to service their machine.

AMS works every day to be the best planer moulder supplier in the UK and Ireland

At the AMS showroom in Skeffington, Leicestershire, visitors will be able to find a big range of planer-moulders. The company has on display four-head, five-head, fivehead easy-set and six-head planer-moulders ready to run – but if customers are looking for something more specific, AMS can sort that out, too.

A good example was the Murdock Builders Merchants case – they needed a high-speed production line. They requested a seven-head, heavy-duty moulder – running up to 120m/ min, supported by a complete turnkey handling operation – and it was installed by AMS’ engineers.

Paul from Murdock Builders says: “We were looking for a redesigned and quick setup, and we knew that AMS was a reliable company. When we contacted them, their team helped us quickly and professionally, no matter what the problem or question. They were taking care of sourcing and contracting of the handling. I didn’t have to deal with two companies – AMS handled everything for me.”

AMS was originally a service company that sells machines, and Leigh Freestone, from Seamers joinery in Derby, confirmed that he completely agrees: “The AMS service department is always ready to help.”

Seamers joinery bought a six-head planer moulder to produce mouldings, window components, door components and much more.

Leigh says: “We bought a machine from AMS because we needed a trusted and reliable planer-moulder in our new workshop to make our classical and intricate mouldings.

‘We were looking for a redesigned and quick setup, and we knew that AMS was a reliable company. When we contacted them, their team helped us quickly and professionally, no matter what the problem or question’

“Before we got our Wadkin Bursgreen sixhead planer moulder, we used to work with different machines to get the same result – the result being a longer setup. Now, with this new machine, we can be sure that every single moulding coming out will be the same – we are so happy with the machine, we have just ordered a second.”

AMS has also developed, along with the manufacturer, special training courses to enable its engineers and its customers to use the machines confidently and speed up the setting process. AMS has spare parts and tooling available for all the moulders that it sells – because the most important part of the sale for AMS is to take care its customers after the purchase.

0844 844 9949 sales@advancedmachinery www.advancedmachinery.co.uk

Dust Extraction & Woodwaste Management

Dutch filter installation builder Modesta was looking for a local partner to help it with UK-based projects, and found the right fit with Extraction Solutions in Sheffield. Together, they successfully installed a cascading fan system at the Images Kitchen and Bedroom factory in Chester.

Family businesses work together towards cleaner air

With many projects in the UK and Ireland, Wyboud Kloppenburg, director at Modesta Filters in the Netherlands, found himself travelling back and forth regularly. In order to reduce the number of trips for both himself and his team of engineers, and to enable a faster service to clients on the other side of the sea, he was looking for an alternative solution.

“That’s how, one day in 2016, when I was in the neighbourhood, I decided to give Extraction Solutions a call,” he explains.

Wyboud picked up the phone to ask Neil Parkes, founder of Extraction Solutions (ESL), if he could come in. Half an hour later, he was having a coffee in Neil’s office.

“His phone call came out of the blue, but I was very happy to hear from him because I’d seen Modesta equipment at work and was particularly impressed by how much energy they saved,” recalls Neil.

Two family businesses

Coming from over 50 years of combined experience, ESL founders Neil Parkes and Nick Wright had worked on over 100 installations together in their previous jobs. That is why they decided to join forces in 2012. Utilising Nick’s installation expertise and Neil’s extraction knowledge, they design and implement some of the best extraction and handling solutions available.

ESL is a family business – both of the founder’s sons are active in the company as well. “I started

“For Modesta and ESL, this is only the start of a fruitful working relationship”

on-site, then I moved up into contracting and designing,” says James Parkes, design engineer.

“Our biggest challenge at this moment is staying on top of the workload – despite all of the uncertainty around the pandemic, we have a lot of clients coming in. That’s why working together with the right partners is very important.”

Neil adds: “We work for companies that deal with both high-waste and low-waste loads. In our portfolio, we didn’t have a clever solution yet for low waste environments such as woodworking factories, so Wyboud’s call came at exactly the right moment.”

Like ESL, Modesta is a family company – Wyboud is the third generation working in the business. Having over 70 years of experience in the industry, Modesta designs and builds all of its installations in-house at its Dutch factory site.

“Wyboud’s knowledge exceeds his age – he’s not just a salesperson, he really knows what he’s talking about,” says James.

Wyboud, in turn, likes ESL’s knowledge of the market and its hands-on approach. He says: “They’re able to do their own engineering and maintenance, so they can really take the lead on a project.” After that first meeting, it was clear to both parties they were the right fit for each other.

The first joint project

Not long after that, the first opportunity for Modesta and ESL to join forces presented itself. Images, a kitchen and bedroom factory, was looking for a new filter unit. Neil says: “When I came back from my first meeting with Images, I said ‘I think this is prime Modesta territory’.”

Images Kitchens and Bedrooms started out as a small made-to-measure mirror wardrobe factory in 1984. In over 35 years, the company has installed thousands of bedrooms and kitchens, and has grown into one of the largest independent manufacturers and retailers of fitted bedrooms and kitchens in the North West

Modesta director, Wyboud Kloppenburg

ESL family values: Neil (above) and James Parkes

and North Wales. With a split-level showroom in Chester and a large factory, ESL now employs over 20 staff.

When Images contacted ESL over two years ago, the company was ready for a new extraction solution for its factory. Their old filter was consuming large amounts of energy and required a lot of maintenance.

“It would drain a lot of power and blow the fuses. I was willing to invest in a new solution that would guarantee longevity and save us money in the long-run,” explains Images director Stephen Eyre.

Reducing energy consumption

Images’ old filter installation had only one fan, resulting in little flexibility and energy loss. Neil says: “That’s why I advised a Modesta Airlock filter with multiple cascading fans, that enables a factory to use only the capacity they need.”

Images only uses the filter’s full capacity for a few weeks a year, so, thanks to the multiple fans, can turn on just a part of the installation in less busy times. It also protects the business against downtime, because if one fan has a defect, the other keeps working.

“As it was our first project together, one of our engineers was on-site in case ESL had any

“It was a big investment for a small company like mine, but I’ve been saving a lot of money on electricity and my factory is cleaner. I’d recommend it”

questions, but James, Nick, and Neil have done the lion’s share of the work,” says Wyboud.

ESL carried out the installation over a bank holiday, and managed to get everything up and running within a week. Stephen is happy with the end result, and says: “I come in in the morning, I turn it on, and it always works. Honestly, as a factory owner, that’s all I’m interested in at the end of the day.”

He has been using the new installation for over two years now, and has not experienced any downtime. “It was a big investment for a small company like mine,” he admits, “but I’ve been saving a lot of money on electricity and my factory is cleaner. I’d recommend it.”

For Modesta and ESL, this is only the start of a fruitful working relationship. Neil states: “We’re looking to grow our business in the next few years. We actually just hired a new contract engineer to keep up with the workload, so we only see the collaboration with Modesta growing in the future.”

www.modestafilters.com www.extractionsolutions.co.uk

Although a relative newcomer to the industry, the latest dust extraction company to be recognised as an Approved Ecogate Dealer and Installer is no stranger to the brand.

Extractly appointed as Ecogate® installer

Extractly’s website includes online shopping for specialist equipment and parts, plus an online booking facility for LEV test appointments

Since Ecogate made its debut appearance at the W Exhibition in 2010, installations of the energy-saving technology have been well-documented by F&JP over the years. Developed and patented in the US by Ecogate Inc, the Windows PC-controlled system was introduced to the UK by brothers Philip and Chris Oldfield – former directors of Dust Control Systems (DCS), which was acquired a couple of years ago by Filtermist International.

Chris Oldfield’s son, Jake Oldfield (pictured right), who started his dust extraction career as a DCS service engineer, before gravitating into engineering sales with DCS and latterly for Cades, established Extractly as a specialist online provider of equipment and parts for all aspects of Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV).

“The aim with Extractly was to satisfy a demand from professional extraction engineers as well as the self-installer,” says Jake. “Through the online shop, Extractly has the capacity to provide just about any item you could possibly need … whether that’s a pressure gauge, QuickFit ducting, filter media, or even a complete new filter unit.

“We’ve been more than pleased with the performance of the online sales and distribution side of the business, particularly through the pandemic,” Jake affirms, but also admits he has continued to hanker after the more hands-on aspects of the dust extraction business.

He says: “DCS was truly a family business in every sense, and having been brought up with dust and extraction being discussed at most mealtimes and family gatherings, it could have either put me off for life, or provided the motivation to pursue a career in the industry – happily it was the latter!”

From starting out as a supply-only business, the progression to installation, servicing and maintenance was a natural process for Extractly. “Much of the early work was routine servicing, or simple ductwork refits when a new piece of kit meant an alteration or extension of an existing system,” says Jake, “but it was frustrating to see so many workshops with extraction fans running all day long when we knew there was a better way of doing things that could not only benefit the owners’ bank accounts, but would benefit the environment at the same time.”

Armed with a sound knowledge of the industry’s requirements for energy-saving systems, Extractly undertook a thorough evaluation of other technologies that had arrived on the scene over the past decade, but determined that Ecogate was still the leader in its field.

By minimising electricity consumption, an Ecogate system can easily cut power bills in half but, in addition, this automatically reduces the environmental footprint that a woodworking business makes, and Ecogate is fast becoming referred to as the ‘Sustainable Dust Extraction System’.

In conclusion, Jake comments: “I’m delighted that Extractly is now an Approved Installer of Ecogate products – it’s a system that works just as well for the smallest workshop as it does for the largest manufacturing operations, and provides a positive benefit for our environment at the same time.”

01924 520462 www.extractly.co.uk

A & G Toseland has launched its new website – www.briquettetech.com – which details the available range of POR Micucci briquetting machines and accessories.

New wesbite for briquetter firm

The new site details the individual specifications and features of the nine briquetting machines in the range, and includes film of a machine in operation, producing briquettes from wood shavings and sander dust.

The site will be regularly updated with case studies relevant to the joinery- and furnitureproducing sector, together with applications from other industries. The aim of the site is to assist potential customers with the correct machine selection to suit their particular type of waste stream and volume of production.

The briquetting sector is likely to see significant growth over the next two to three years, in line with the Government’s Clean Air Strategy, which includes the banning of the burning and marketing of wet wood (moisture content over 20%) from early 2021 – wood briquettes are a suitable alternative, creating opportunities for the furniture and joinery sector to capitalise on a previously costly-to-dispose-of waste stream.

www.briquettetech.com

Following a move to considerably larger premises and plans to grow the business in the coming years, commercial washroom fit-out and contract furniture manufacturer, Stevens Washrooms, has invested in a custom-built woodwaste extraction system from Leicester-based extraction specialist, Dustraction.

Dustraction – mover and shaker

“With over 20 years of experience behind us, we had a clear understanding of what we needed our new extraction system to do and what it needed to help us achieve,” begins Ian Stevens, MD of Stevens Washrooms.

“The new extraction system had to be capable of working with nine woodworking machines, including multiple edgebanders, a CNC and a vertical panel saw, and be able to work efficiently if all machines were running at the same time. The design also needed to accommodate 25% extra capacity and be easily modified and extended if we were to expand our premises in the future. Noise levels and running costs were also key areas of consideration for us.”

Following discussions with three extraction companies, it was Dustraction’s unique Dustrax No 27 BB Series tubular sock-type filtering system, complete with automatic shaker cleaning mechanism, that ticked the box for the Portsmouth-based manufacturer.

“Not only did the system seem like the most comprehensive solution on paper, Dustraction’s customer service, clear understanding of our requirements and speedy response to our questions made for a winning formula,” says Ian. “Within three days, the team had drawn up detailed plans of our new 8000ft2 premises, calculated the air volume required and offered us a competitively-priced solution that matched our brief perfectly.”

Designed and manufactured around Stevens Washrooms’ production requirements, Dustracton’s Dustrax No 27 BB Modular woodwaste filter is capable of working effectively with the total air volume required

“The new extraction system had to be capable of working with nine woodworking machines – including multiple edgebanders, a CNC and a vertical panel saw – and be able to work efficiently if all machines were running at the same time”

by the nine machines on site (approx 11,470m³/hr – 6750ft3/ min) and offers a filtration velocity of approximately 2.36m/min. Its modular, bolted construction also allows for the addition of further filter chambers, bagging base extensions and increased fan power if needed in the future.

In addition, its automatic shakercleaning mechanism – which sees waste transferred into an enclosed bagging hopper via the main floormounted extraction fan set – and fully sequenced control panel designed for simple operation, means the new Dustrax extraction system offers high-performance, innovative technology and userfriendly functionality.

Following the completion of socially distanced on-site surveys, the installation began on schedule. “We were fortunate enough to be able to carry on working from our existing premises while the new extraction system was being fitted,” explains Ian.

“This not only reduced our downtime, but gave the engineers more space and flexibility during the build. However, it also meant that they needed to be accurate when it came to the machine’s positioning. We couldn’t afford for our machines to be moved into their new home and not be up and running quickly. Dustraction’s engineers visited the site several times before the build began. Their due diligence paid off, and each stage of the fit-out went to plan.”

Eight weeks on, and the company is expecting to see significantly reduced running costs in the next quarter. “In our old premises, we had five smaller extraction units placed around the factory floor, instead of all our machines running off a singular unit,” says Ian. “Each ran at 35A on three-phase. On start-up, our new Dustrax fan goes from 200A to just 37A in a matter of seconds. That’s how powerful and energy-efficient this system is. The near-silent running fan has also reduced noise levels. Even the shaker box is really quiet.”

Ian adds: “Now settled into our new premises, we are running at 60% capacity. The unit is capable of growing with us, and so too is the new woodwaste extraction system.

“Investing in key pieces of equipment like a new extraction system is never going to be an easy task – especially when you’re in the process of moving your entire manufacturing plant at the same time – but Dustraction was always on hand to help us.

“I found them to be extremely upfront and open throughout our journey, and because of this, we’ve build a lasting relationship with them. We plan on working together going forward, and we have an annual service plan in place with them. I would wholeheartedly recommend them to others looking to install a new extraction system, or those looking to improve an existing system. The whole team really has offered a great service.”

0116 271 3212 www.dustraction.co.uk

Cambridge-based Coulson Building Group has built a strong reputation for high-class joinery stretching back for over 125 years.

Wood Waste Control provides extraction solution for Cambridge joinery business

The service, provided from one of the most modern and wellequipped joinery departments in the East of England, is available for highly specialised individual projects, or as a complementary skill to its Building and Services departments.

To ensure it maintains the highest environmental standards, Coulson has now invested almost £40,000 in a new dust and woodwaste extraction system which was designed, manufactured and installed by Wood Waste Control (Engineering).

According to Coulson’s joinery manager Jon Nix, business has been going extremely well. “Our customers range from private individuals ordering, say, just a door, to £1m orders for commercial furniture and fittings from contractors and builders,” he says.

“We also carry out large public works, including on cathedrals and colleges. Our work is mostly in Cambridge, but also extends across East Anglia and sometimes to London.”

The large joinery unit employs around 15 people and contains extensive milling facilities, a fouraxis CNC machine, saws, planing and spindle moulders, all working with a wide range of selected hard and soft woods.

Jon adds: “Our extraction system was nearing the end of its life, and we looked at a number of suppliers and chose Wood Waste Control as the best option.”

Wood Waste Control specified its WFS-13 2J silo filter, mounted on a frame outside the joinery workshop. All-new ducting connects machines to the filter, and the collected waste is then discharged through a rotary

Wood Waste Control has installed a new dust extraction system at the Cambridge-based Coulson Building Group

valve unit and dropped pressurefree directly into a skip container.

Reg Gareppo, MD of Wood Waste Control, says: “This is a powerful and popular extraction solution with many configuration options, and some customers choose extraction to storage silos, closed containers or briquetting presses.”

Jon continues: “This modern new system is much stronger and more robust than its predecessor, and meets all modern environmental standards. The installation went without problems, and the new system is performing well, doing everything we want it to do.”

Wood Waste Control is one of the UK’s leading dust extraction and heating equipment specialists for the woodworking industry. The company is based in Bourne End near High Wycombe, and has hundreds of successful waste extraction, processing and heating equipment installations across the UK, Europe, Russia and Africa.

The family company manufactures its wide range of filters in the UK and supplies shredders, briquette presses, biomass heaters/boilers, plus quick-assemble and spiral ductwork, to enable it to offer solutions from simple standalone bagging units through to complex integrated systems.

www.woodwastecontrol.co.uk

So how was this year for you?

And what might we see next year?

After a difficult 2020, what will the future look like for the furniture and joinery industry’s leading suppliers? We asked how this year was going and what they could see for the year coming.

Melanie Archbould

Palamatic

Being Chesterfield-based, Palamatic is ideally located for distribution of its lifting and handling product to all parts of the UK and overseas. The company employs over 50 local people in a wide range of roles covering sales and marketing, design and project engineering, production and aftersales services.

With 35 years’ experience, Palamatic is an expert in all areas of lifting and handling solutions including vacuum tube lifting systems, support gantries, automatic sackopening machinery and bespoke handling solutions for all manufacturing industries. The company also keeps a stock of spare parts for standard systems.

Palamatic’s experienced staff are there to help at all stages, providing an end-to-end service, from sales enquiry through to aftersales services. The company also has an office and warehouse in North Carolina to help with enquiries and distribute lifters, parts and systems to its customers in the US.

Over the years, Palamatic has built up strong relationships with a team of distributors all over the world, which represent the extensive range of products to their own customers.

What makes your business stand out?

“We bring the best we have to the table, inviting our experienced global partners to input into design,” explains Palamatic MD, Melanie Archbould. “We take advice and guidance from our fantastic supply chain team, and most importantly we always involve the customer and their operators along the way – both at their site and at our test plan facility.

“Palamatic has been built on strong family foundations – led by the founders’ daughter who upholds these principles – whilst operating in a 21st century style. People are at the heart of everything Palamatic do – employees and their families, suppliers, and customers.

“Palamatic is not one of the ‘big’ material handling equipment suppliers, but this is used to our advantage consistently. It means that we can remain focused on developing new, unique and much-needed product solutions every year.”

What has 2020 been like for Palamatic?

Mirroring companies in all sectors, 2020 has been a year of challenges, beginning with the uncertainty of Brexit, and then the huge impact of Covid-19 on business and employees.

“During this time, we have constantly reviewed and refreshed our working procedures to meet regulations,” says Melanie. “We are very proud of our fantastic team, who have kept employees and visitors safe whilst continuing to produce and service and keep customer equipment running throughout such a demanding time.

“As a global supplier with a US office and distributors in all continents, we have constant contact with our customers in the UK and around the world. Over the Covid period, we have had daily communication where we have been able to check how people are managing – both from a business perspective and personally.

“The period has introduced a new version of working which we have embraced, and will continue to use going forward in many areas. Teams meetings have taken over from face-toface, and where site sales visits haven’t been possible, we have worked with customers using a phone or other device that could show their working areas in order to provide quotations. In many ways, it has bought everyone closer together.

“Our business supplying the woodworking industry has continued to be very busy. Many customers have had to increase their production to meet new demands, and have required lifting systems to make this possible. Upturns in applications have been for customers supplying to hospitals, schools, universities, helping businesses create new office layouts, and the increase in demand for house renovations.

How would you describe Palamatic’s outlook for 2021?

“During 2020, we have worked hard on a new website – available online now – and we are also implementing a new customer service system, which will be available soon, giving our customers access to service, spare parts and manuals, and ongoing recruitment, and partnerships,” explains Melanie.

“We are strong believers in the apprenticeship scheme, with two having started in September and training at the AMRC centre in Rotherham. We also have a hefty recruitment drive to grow our team of engineers, fabrication and assembly fitters, which will help us grow the company and continue to offer our customers the personal service we pride ourselves on delivering.

“In terms of products, we never stop developing new product, so, looking forward to 2021, we already have plans for our mobile range of lifting systems, cleanroom and also ATEX designs to suit dusty environments, and we are expanding production of our Uni-LITE range of systems for end-of-line, pick-and-place applications.”

Concluding, Melanie says: “Overall, we are very optimistic about the future of the company going into the new year.”

www.palamatic.com

While unfortunately the Covid-19 pandemic keeps developing and spreading, and the central and local governments continue to present new indications on how to behave and what we should or should not do, the world of the woodworking industry in reality continues to steam ahead with newfound energy and focus. We spoke to Gabriele de Col, MD of SCM UK, for his views …

“Being it the outcome of a developed resilience, the hope for a vaccine and new treatments to return to a normal life, or just the construction and refurbishment market recovering from a few years of relative stability – 2020 is proving an incredibly dynamic and successful year from a commercial point of view for SCM and its dealer network,” states Gabriele.

“Furthermore, the major projects, initially stalled, have returned to life with excellent prospects for 2021.

“Because of this favourable situation, SCM UK is working flat-out through the logistic difficulties to guarantee our customers continuity in deliveries of new machinery and spare parts, technical support for installations, repairs, maintenance, training and advice for new equipment purchases or complete reorganisation of the workflow for new production investments.

“SCM UK has added new resources, especially in the areas of service and general machinery management. Great focus was also put on training to adapt the skills to the new functionalities provided on all SCM product lines.

“Technological innovation, digital factory and all-round support services to the customer are SCM’s primary objectives. Today, more than ever, SCM aims to continue remaining at the side of all industry professionals with its Smart&Human Factory, as well as technologies and state-ofthe-art software and digital services, which are being further strengthened in these delicate times,” says Gabriele.

“The ‘R-Evolution’ that SCM product supply is constantly going through has projected our solutions to a higher level

SCM UK

in terms of functionalities and data management, both fundamental to Industry 4.0 implementation.

“Practical demonstrations, training and optimisation of maintenance and assistance activities continue even remotely, thanks to the IoT Maestro Connect platform. Designed and developed to meet the needs of Industry 4.0 production, it provides instant access to a wide range of services, to allow woodworking operators to be flanked and supported by the SCM team, even in ‘virtual’ mode.

“Above all the digital services, what stands out is the Smartech augmented reality (AR) assistance – thanks to a wearable computer and a specific control software, SCM experts can diagnose and solve problems in real-time. Smartech incorporates video, camera, microphone and loudspeaker functions with wireless connection. This ensures hands-free, two-way communication with interactive data sharing.

“The eye-M widescreen and multitouch operator’s panel can be found on most of our new CNC-controlled machinery and it is granting ever-improving functionalities. These allow remote diagnostics and data collection, giving SCM engineers a quicker and deeper support on fault-finding, also allowing customers to download and analyse their own production and machinery data to foresee productivity improvement opportunities, incoming issues or a need for service visits.

“Last but not least, thanks to our e-Campus platform, the training and all-round service offered to clients are further enhanced, with increasingly more personalised courses based on the specific individual needs of companies in the woodworking industry.”

In conclusion, depsite challeneing conditions in many ways, Gabriele’s mindset is very positive: “The Covid-19 pandemic might not be easily defeated, but we are dealing with it, and we look forward to a successful 2021,” he concludes.

www.scmgroup.com

TM Machinery

2020 has been a challenging and turbulent year for everyone but with the construction and manufacturing sectors continuing to operate effectively during the pandemic, TM Machinery has seen a marked upswing in business.

“To date, we’ve seen a very rapid descent followed by a pretty decent recovery,” says Matt Pearce, managing director of TM Machinery Sales and TM Services. “For us, one of the biggest challenges was to know the right time to get back to work following the first national lockdown. We were fortunate enough to be able to pay our employees in full during the initial furlough period but the team was keen to get back to work. We needed to balance their desire to work with the need to keep them safe. When customers like B&Q and Selco reopened, it was a clear indication that it was the right time for us to implement our new Covid-secure operation and get our sales and servicing division fully re-opened.”

By July, TM Machinery’s servicing department was back to levels seen before the pandemic. Machinery sales soon followed, with September being exceptionally busy. Matt says: “We found that companies weren’t looking to replace their machinery quite so frequently as before but those with TMSERVICES WOODWORKING MACHINERY EXPERTS SINCE 1983

plans to expand their machinery range, increase production or undergo new projects were still keen to invest in good quality machinery.

“This meant that the majority of our sales have been from existing customers looking to increase the number of machines they had, or new businesses looking to invest in their very first vertical panel saw or dust extraction unit.”

Matt continues: “I wouldn’t be so bold as to predict continual growth in the coming months and I’m under no illusion that the next 12 months won’t bring new challenges but as a whole, the manufacturing sector is resilient and its clear that, with manufacturing and construction companies still able to operate successfully during these difficult times, the need to invest in high quality machinery is still as crucial today as it was before the pandemic. This makes me reasonably optimistic for 2021 and, with plans for growth still very much alive in the industry, I’m confident sales will remain strong going forward.

“Looking back at 2020, it’s been a year filled with challenges but it’s also come with its fair share of positive messages too. It’s shown me how dedicated the TM team is and how adaptable we are as a business.

“Thanks in part to a cloud-based software package installed 18 months ago, the transition between office and home working has been fairly straightforward and its allowed us to work effectively throughout the pandemic and continue to offer our customers a high level of customer service.

“It’s also been fantastic to see our customers pull together and work with us to operate a Covid-secure operation. This has shown a real sense of togetherness, as we all do our bit to tackle the spread of the virus. For me, 2020 has confirmed just how robust TM Machinery and TM Services are and how resilient this industry is. Here’s to a healthy and prosperous 2021!”

0116 271 7155 www.tmmachinery.co.uk

Jos Hormes

Modecor

Modecor is a leading manufacturer and exporter of CPL and HPL laminates at its factory in Saudi Arabia, which operates according to EU norms with all required quality certifications such as FSC, ISO 9001, etc.

Furniture & Joinery Production asked the sales manager at Modecor International, Jos Hormes, for his thoughts regarding this year’s challenges and his hopes for 2021 …

What makes your business stand out?

We are a flexible company so we can answer our customers’ questions and demands quickly and efficiently. Because of the short lines of communication, personal contact and our contacts with the European suppliers, we can offer a wide range of interior products.

Digital printing on HPL has no secrets for Modecor – and because we are working with our own European designer, our customers enjoy direct contact regarding the requested decor and structure.

How would you summarise 2020 for your firm?

Although it has been a tough year, we are satisfied that production has been maintained at the necessary levels. We even invested in new decors, called the New Face Collection from Modecor, which offers over 60 new decors and a lot of new textures. Take a look at www.modecor.info for more.

Tell us about future developments and ambitions for 2021?

We will try to keep the service level high by developing new decors and textures, and by sending out requested samples really fast. We will also present online webinars and invest more and more in the co-operation between developing and final product. A new service will also be the introduction of edges up to 104mm in width.

www.modecor.info

Natalie Davenport

Häfele UK

“The word ‘unprecedented’ has become synonymous with the year 2020,” says Natalie Davenport, head of marketing at Häfele UK. “But actually, that description doesn’t even scratch the surface. The last 12 months, and the ramifications of Covid-19, have arguably been the single biggest challenge this sector – and many others – have ever faced, and will hopefully ever face again.

“We consider ourselves an agile business, and one which can adapt to support our customers. So, it became obvious early into the pandemic that it was almost our duty to focus on services and products which would make it easier for manufacturers and installers to get back to business as efficiently and as soon as possible.

“We spoke to customers across the country to understand the new challenges they were facing in terms of new ways of working, costs, supply and demand and more. Then we considered how we could bring together and refine some of our own services to make a real difference to their operations during those truly difficult days of early lockdown,” says Natalie.

“In response to the pandemic and our customers’ needs, we launched Häfele Here to Help, a dedicated package of support for our industry. The programme was designed to help installers, joiners and manufacturers to increase sales and enquiries, as well as deliver projects on time and to budget, despite the financial, operational and logistical challenges presented by the pandemic.

“As well as offering price freezes on our products and extended free delivery, we also amalgamated several valueadded services. Our free-of-charge Lighting Design Service, and Häfele to Order – our bespoke, made-to-order manufacturing service that allows customers to order personalised packed and assembled products for their project – were, and still are, on offer, along with a newly launched technical specification support programme for sliding door gear.

“The ultimate aim was to give installers and manufacturers all the technical elements they needed to access the right hardware, materials and specification to support customers who needed to continue to work to keep up with orders and projects, by making our processes as efficient as possible,” says Natalie.

“And it transpires this was very much welcomed by the industry, because the demand was there and it continues to grow. The lockdown forced homeowners to stay inside their properties, and the result was that many started thinking of all the things they could do to improve their spaces.

“The niggling parts of their homes, which they could live with when they weren’t confined to it 24 hours a day, were no longer niggles – they needed resolving. And with many having more disposable cash due to a decrease in commuting, socialising and travelling, the most sensible option was to reinvest it into their home.

“Order books started filling up quickly – some of our customers found themselves booked up well into 2021 as early as August 2020, and the trend hasn’t slowed since,” confirms Natalie. “Despite very gloomy initial forecasts, the home improvement industry – and kitchen sector particularly – has done better than expected. And this has been further supported by Government initiatives which have ensured the manufacturing and construction industries can continue to function, with them having acknowledged the key role both play in the rebuilding of the economy and job creation. “What’s been an interesting movement, is the increased focus on the configuration of internal spaces. It’s no longer enough to improve the face of a room – consumers are increasingly interested in using furniture, fixtures and fittings to make spaces work harder for them, today and into the future.

“It’s partly because our homes became – without warning – much more multi-functional than they ever needed to be before, when we were told to immediately work, educate, exercise and socialise at home,” points out Natalie.

“As a result, the need for a dedicated home office space became – and still is – a pressing issue for much of the UK’s working population. The dining table was a fine temporary measure, but people quickly became tired of sore backs, disturbed video calls and a lack of distinction between the work and home environment.

“In turn, joiners saw, and are still seeing, an upsurge in requests for clever adaptations to rooms that help create the perfect office area, whatever footprint is available. Whether it’s a home that’s restricted on space, one where a worker needs a dedicated area for a day or two a week, or a larger property with a room that can be updated to create a more spacious office to work from every day, joiners are being called on to add value with really creative ideas.

“Sliding doors, for example, are being used to break up and reconfigure existing rooms to give homeowners a dedicated working area without sacrificing space elsewhere in the home. Meanwhile, multifunctional fittings such as tabletop swivel fittings – which double up as a sideboard and L-shaped workstation – are being fitted to create temporary desks which are also useful for other residents outside of working hours.

“There has also been an increased focus on storage within properties, with installers being tasked to create useful areas in formerly ‘dead space’ within homes, to prevent a build-up of clutter which comes naturally with more people being at home, for more hours of a day.

“Additionally, homeowners on a budget have been hiring installers to make small changes which spruce up a space and give it a new lease of life to improve their mental wellbeing. As well as a lick of paint, they’re changing door handles, replacing worktops, updating hinges and retrofitting lighting to their furniture to complete low-cost upgrades.

“Lighting, traditionally, has been an area that joiners steer away from, but thanks to innovation in this area – and a new willingness from tradespeople to add new strings to their bow to keep their order book full – it’s becoming easier to provide.

“This year has seen three life-changing things take place – a major climate emergency, social and economic rising and, of course, the pandemic. In combination, they have given us the ability to slow down and think about the things we want in our life. Humans are very adaptable creatures – we can change easily, but we don’t necessarily like to.”

‘For Häfele, a major focus in 2021 will be continuing to empower installers, joiners and manufacturers to help their customers achieve the changes they want to make in their homes’

Looking forward to next year, Natalie says: “For Häfele, a major focus in 2021 will be continuing to empower installers, joiners and manufacturers to help their customers achieve the changes they want to make in their homes.

“The pandemic has reinforced how we all live in unique circumstances – no-one’s life is the same, and therefore everyone needs different things from their properties. Products and services which enable that will continue to be in demand in 2021, especially as so many businesses have committed to permitting home working for an extended period of time – even if that goes beyond an effective Covid-19 vaccine being developed and made available across society.

“For Häfele, collaboration, being adaptive and putting our customers first has never been more important. And as the long-term impact of Covid-19 continues to emerge into 2021, we’re committed to working with manufacturers and installers to understand what we can bring the market to support them – because whether it’s technical, specification or design support, we want to be a true extension of their team.

“Just as, in the same way, consumers need joiners and installers to be part of their team – they want their homes to bring joy, and we’ll be doing everything we can to make the manufacturing industry central to that.”

www.hafele.co.uk

Pete Sartain

Mirka UK

Mirka is a world leader in abrasive technology, offering some of the most sought-after abrasives, and exemplary tools. Offering a complete range of technically superior, high-quality coated abrasives on net, foam, paper, nonwoven and cloth, Mirka’s abrasives are available as discs, strips, sheets, rolls and belts.

In terms of tools, the Mirka Power Tools division develops and manufactures advanced, ergonomic and lightweight sanding machines that provide a total sanding solution and deliver real benefits to customers.

Mirka’s tool range consists of electric and pneumatic sanding machines, polishing machines, hand blocks and dust extractors, along with equipment for sanding walls and ceilings.

The company also provides a wide selection of Mirka accessories to complement its extensive range of abrasives, polishes and tools.

Combining the aforementioned products, together with innovative and high-tech, easy-to-use, step-by-step processes, Mirka’s customers will, and do, reap real benefits, by using total system solutions. The company’s concept of dust-free sanding, combined with effective surface finishing solutions, has replaced traditional sanding methods in many industries.

Regarding the challenging year coming to a close soon, and looking forward to next year, F&JP spoke with Pete Sartain, national sales manager – industrial, of Mirka UK.

“Mirka’s success is founded on a company culture that aims to constantly seek out new challenges and apply creative thinking to generate continuous improvement and unique solutions.

“The cornerstone is an intensive research and development programme and the commitment of talented staff across all areas of the business. This has resulted in the development of revolutionary abrasive technology and the creation of groundbreaking new coatings production processes and a new generation of ergonomic and lightweight electric sanders.

How would you summarise 2020?

“Driven by innovative products that challenge the current marketplace, Mirka has seen impressive historical growth in sales to the wood sector, and 2020 will be no exception to this. It is reassuring to be working for a market leader with core values that allow us to ride the storm, so to speak.”

What has surprised, pleased or disappointed you about how your business has reacted or adapted to the myriad challenges this year?

“In the words of Joseph Kennedy, immortalised in the song by Billy Ocean, ‘when the going gets tough, the tough get going.’ Mirka has always believed that success is led by people.

“Our vice president Simon Bloxham once said at a meeting: ‘If you want to know what makes Mirka great, look in the mirror every morning. You are the face of the company and represent everything about us.’

“The defining measure of any company is not how it performs in times of growth and prosperity – it’s easy to grow in a growing market. What defines a company is how it performs in challenging years such as 2020. The resilience and general positive can-do attitude of our team here at Mirka inspires me on a daily basis.

“We all have our heroes during Covid-19 – Captain Sir Tom Moore, the NHS staff and thousands of other key workers. But we often forget the people around us, our work colleagues, without whom the wheels of our business would stop turning.

Rapid growth in our business in the last decade has meant many changes and challenges, yet the team at Mirka is used to adapting to change, and 2020 is no exception.

Can you tell us about future developments and your ambitions for 2021?

“Utilising the latest coating technology, Mirka’s R&D team is currently working on new products across the range to offer innovative finishing solutions to the marketplace.

“Wide-belt sanding will form part of this. With the exception of Mirka’s Ultimax range, new product development has been limited from all suppliers, but it’s now time for a change, and the product range currently being developed will not only meet the challenges of the new sanding machine technology, but will also deliver on the new sanding substrates being used by our customers. It’s an exciting time – watch this space.”

www.mirka.com

2020 seems, in retrospect, to be a year of four quarters. Up to and including March, saw a hive of industry in our business with KBB Birmingham dominating out thoughts. There was a real buzz of positivity and excitement, we had invested a great deal of time and effort into our stand and were looking forward to showcasing it to the industry.

Of course we all know that, by the build-up for the show on the first weekend of March, coronavirus was proving to be more than “just the flu” that we had all supposed, and a bit of doubt and anxiety was starting to set in.

The second quarter was completely dominated by the unprecedented fact of closing our business, even including the logistics side. We managed to stay open to send out the final few orders, but after that, like every other business in the UK, apart from essential ones of course, we followed the Government instructions and closed our doors. We were closed for a full five weeks, and then slowly opened up one day at a time, until, by the end of June we were back to full operation.

The third quarter showed an explosion of activity, which David Sanders

Blum UK

is its own way was almost as difficult to deal with. We are all familiar with the fact that homeowners, denied the ability to go on holiday, decided to renovate their homes. So, the super-quick and forceful recovery led to a wall of demand from our customers.

At present, in the fourth quarter, we are still dealing with the challenge of such exceptional demand. Luckily the limitations of this second lockdown are not as rigorous as the first, so we have been able to keep our business fully operational.

Summarising, I think we could describe 2020 as the definition of feast and famine.

Looking forward to the first quarter of 2021, we don’t anticipate any drop in demand. Like everyone in our industry, the feast and famine has bought supply problems, and there are certain product lines that are challenging to say the least. Nevertheless, I’m extremely optimistic that 2021 will be better than 2020.

01908 285700 www.blum.com

Werner Berens and Michael Lambert

Vecoplan

The consequences of Covid-19 is very serious, presenting many companies with major challenges in 2020. However, Vecoplan AG has been able to continue with its successful development. The business of the leading supplier of machines and systems that shred, convey and process primary and secondary raw materials in the production and materials cycle is currently running as profitably as in the previous year – and after the first half of the year, revenue was even at the previous year’s level. Reason enough to continue to invest in production modernisation and personnel.

“Despite Covid-19, our business is still very stable since we’re working through a high backlog of orders. One reason for these orders is our development offensive and the resulting product launches of recent months,” says Werner Berens, CEO of the Vecoplan Group.

Having listened to the market as always, the future-oriented company from Germany’s Westerwald region developed and marketed machines to match demands. These new developments have expanded Vecoplan’s product portfolio, enabling the company to provide its customers with comprehensive support even in very difficult applications. This in turn leads to a continuously high number of requests.

“However, there will be a time lag in the recovery of incoming orders, because although the demand for Vecoplan machines is enormous, many companies are taking their time over final investment decisions due to the uncertainty of the current situation,” says Michael Lambert, CFO of the Vecoplan Group.

The company’s goal of increasing added value for its customers as well as the strong demand for its products

Werner Berens: “Our business remains very stable despite Covid-19

Michael Lambert: “We still expect markets to fully recover – and that’s why we’re continuing to invest in the training and further education of our employees.”

were key factors in Vecoplan’s decision to invest several million Euro in the further modernisation of its production, even in these difficult times.

The company intends to use this investment to build up

capacities and optimise processes. Vecoplan will invest the lion’s share of the capital in the production of shredding technology and around a third of it in conveying and storage technology.

The subsidiary in North Carolina, USA has already invested around 10% for the mobile shredding business. “Thanks to these investments, we can continue to meet the demands of the various markets,” says Berens.

Since the outbreak of the pandemic, Vecoplan has been able to avoid measures such as short-time work, job cuts and shut-downs. “We still expect the markets to fully recover, so we’re continuing to invest in the training and further education of our employees – and we’ll even be greatly expanding our workforce,” says Michael. The Westerwald company has also strengthened its service division in recent months with ten new employees.

www.vecoplan.com

Simon Brooks

Homag UK

“This year has been a challenging time for both our customers and the industry,” explains Simon Brooks, MD of Homag UK. “During the Covid-19 pandemic, we have been fortunate that the majority of the woodworking industry has stayed busy and operational.

“Our customers have done a sterling job adapting to the requirements of the pandemic. During the year, we have seen many companies producing a variety of vital products for the NHS and other supporting services. As a result, our customers have relied heavily on us, even through the initial lockdown period, to ensure their machinery and software continue to perform at maximum capacity.

“To meet our customers’ demands, Homag UK has worked relentlessly to make sure we are always available to service any issues or spare part requirements. Our team has remained resilient whilst working through the most difficult of times, to ensure that we have had no closures or restrictions to our service and sales departments. It is with an enormous amount of satisfaction that we can say that whilst the world stood still, Homag has stood firmly by its customers.

“Our manufacturing plants have not missed a beat producing new machinery, parts and services throughout these unpredictable times. Despite the challenges that

Homag’s Loopteq return systems turn edge banders into automated cells for one-man operation

the year has brought us, our order books have remained strong, and we are delighted to see the continuing demand for live machinery demonstrations at our Castle Donington headquarters.

“In both the UK offices and showroom, we’ve had to adapt our processes to meet social distancing obligations. Everyone in the Homag UK team has acted responsibly despite the challenging circumstances. I, for one, am extremely proud of how they have overcome any constraints to ensure our service remains at the same high level for each and every one of our customers.

Socially distanced machining with Homag

“Here at Homag UK, we’re optimistic that 2021 will be a positive year. We will continue to improve our processes and adapt to the new way of working to benefit our customers.

“The Homag range offers machinery options for a wide variety of tasks that improve manufacturing efficiencies. The majority of these have been designed to enable singlehanded operation, making them ideal for meeting social distancing guidelines. With these solutions, manufacturers can maintain production levels whilst safeguarding personnel – something which is vitally important in these troubled times.

A promising and innovative 2021

“As always, the Homag Group is planning lots of innovative developments and additions for our machinery and software portfolio for next year. Our parent company in Germany will continue to produce powerful machinery for manufacturers of all sizes – whether it is entry level, batch size one or mass production processes.

“At Homag UK, we’re looking forward to the new year with excitement and anticipation. We can’t wait to showcase our innovations for 2021 and once again host open houses, attend exhibitions and welcome visitors to explore the Homag range. We fully expect to see the UK’s fantastic woodworking industry make its post-Covid-19 comeback next year,” concludes Simon.

www.homag.com

The Homag Centateq-210 – high performance and easy handling in a compact footprint

In common with many businesses, the Irish manufacturer of handling solutions Combilift will be relieved to see the back of this year, and hopes for better things in 2021! But there were a few highlights in 2020, and Combilift delivered on its reputation for innovation in more ways than one.

When Covid-19 was still considered to be a problem confined to certain regions of China, members of the Combilift team were heading to Hannover for the audit stage of the IFOY (International Intralogistics and Forklift Truck of the Year) 2020 Award.

Combilift was the only manufacturer to gain two nominations for this award – the Combi-CBE4 forklift and the Combi-CS pedestrian counterbalance stacker were both finalists in their categories. They underwent thorough checks by industry experts and journalists from international media for qualities such as design, innovation, ergonomics, safety and sustainability.

The results were announced in a virtual event in July, with the Combi-CS being declared the winner in the Warehouse Truck Lowlifter Category. “The trophy will jostle for space amongst the many other industry awards that Combilift has won since the company was established 22 years ago,” says a spokesperson.

As the pandemic spread, Combilift drew on its expertise in engineering and software design to develop the CombiVentilate, a splitter device which turns one ventilator into multiple ventilation stations. This non-profit endeavour was aimed at addressing the lack or shortage of ventilators in the health service.

This move was widely praised by clinicians such as Dr Michael Power, national clinical lead, Critical Care Programme, Irish health service, who said: “The CombiVentilate is a valuable attachment for ventilators, it costs a fraction of a standard ventilator and can be installed easily into an ICU unit environment. This project is an example of collaboration between the engineering and manufacturing industry and the Health Service Executive (HSE).”

It became obvious over time that although companies were getting back to business, the need for social distancing would be around for the foreseeable future. Combilift’s team of design engineers turned their attention to the manufacturing sector, which faced the challenge of how to get back to normal output levels while creating extra space in production areas, enabling employees to maintain safe distances from each other.

Combilift’s site-survey and free warehouse layout service became a virtual one, using video calling apps to view areas that may be in need of space optimisation. Combilift’s animations and 3D designs show how to achieve a substantial increase in storage capacity by maximising the production areas – which is where profit is made – while reducing the space for storage of raw materials and finished products, which engenders costs. By optimising both these areas, companies can comply with safety requirements while maintaining output, says Combilift. Martin McVicar

Combilift

“The year has definitely not turned out quite as we had expected”, says Combilift CEO and co-founder Martin McVicar, “but I like to think we were able to transfer our skills in providing safer handling equipment to help out other sectors. Our order books and recent sales figures also indicate that 2021 will be a good year for us, and as soon as trade fairs can resume we look forward to meeting all our contacts in person once again.”

For 2021, the focus on safety in general and in the handling sector in particular will be a lasting by-product of the pandemic, so reducing risk will continue to be a key concern. From Combilift’s point of view, this means that demand for any MHE that guarantees a safer working environment – such as its range of products – will grow.

Another major issue for warehousing and logistics operations is the soaring growth of ecommerce. According to the Office for National Statistics, online sales in the UK in July 2020, as a percentage of total retail sales, was 28.1%, compared to 18.7% during the same period last year. This represents an almost +50% increase YoY.

Online sales are unlikely to drop back to pre-Covid levels – they are more likely to increase – so warehousing space will continue to be at an all-time premium. Users of handling equipment will therefore be looking for products that enable maximum use of this very valuable commodity.

“In spite of the circumstances this year, we have seen an increase in orders for the past month compared with the same period in 2019, which bears this out,” explains Martin.

“On a personal level, I hope that a vaccine will be developed so that life can go back to whatever normal may look like. From a business point of view, I am also looking forward to welcoming visitors back to our factory and attending trade fairs once they can safely be resumed.

“These have always been a major framework for demonstrating our products, and I hope for example that we can be at both Ligna and W21 next year to show the innovations that we continually develop for the furniture, joinery and timber sectors.”

www.combilift.com

Combi-Ventilate, a splitter device which turns one ventilator into multiple ventilation stations

Dan McGinty

AAG

In spite of the unprecedented negative impact on most businesses in the UK and Ireland caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, 2020 has proved a seminal year in the evolution of Telford-based AAG. Far from facing a period of virtual stagnation, as experienced by many companies, the newly branded AAG has seen stability in growth, driven by new product innovations, increased market diversification and an expanded customer base.

AAG became the new and more readily identifiable name for AXYZ Automation Group. This was triggered by a new company acquisition in 2019, the need for greater automation in the workplace and a desire to better reflect the group’s wider capabilities as a result of an expanded and more diverse product portfolio and radically enhanced customer support facilities.

Central to this was the earlier acquisition by AAG’s parent company in Canada of the North America-based WARDJet, a specialist in waterjet cutting technology. In consequence, this has enabled the opening and future development of new markets, and in particular those for which traditional CNC routing/cutting machines are considered to be less suited.

AAG’s director of sales and business development (EMEA), Dan McGinty, comments: “The total rebranding, restructuring and repositioning of AAG has served to indicate how far the company, and in particular the AXYZ brand, has grown over the past 30 years, and the pioneering contribution it has made to the wider adoption of CNC machining technology.

“Supporting the rebrand is a visually stronger and more distinctive three-dimensional dual-colour logo and a more apposite mission statement.”

To quote a former president of AAG, “the name of the company may have changed but its core values and objectives remain the same.”

Key developments that have taken place in 2020 include the introduction of upgraded versions of the AXYZ Infinite multi-purpose CNC routing/cutting and AXYZ Trident hybrid finishing systems, a total revamp of AAG’s CNCShop online

The AXYZ Infinite multi-purpose CNC routing/cutting

ecommerce division, a series of customer-focused product demonstration webinars, and a continuation of the financially compelling machine trade-in programme.

These were supplemented during the Covid-19 pandemic with the creation of a Fabrication Fighting Covid-19 initiative, through which fabricated plastic safety shields and face masks and associated PPE equipment were made available nationwide.

The AXYZ Infinite machine, in particular, now incorporates a number of new design features of benefit to industrial woodworking, furniture and joinery production and panel processing companies.

Among the most notable of these are: a more efficient dust extraction system, to eliminate problems associated with clogging of the machine, thus minimising machine downtime; a new misting system for enhanced machine cooling and lubrication; an expanded processing bed to accommodate larger sheet processing requirements; and a new carriage design for easier and faster machine maintenance.

AAG has also announced the launch of the new Innovator smaller-format CNC routing/cutting machine, to replace the existing Z Series. It provides a high-performance-to-cost capability in comparison to any other entry-level machine in its class, and is packed with performance-enhancing features normally found on much larger and more expensive machines, states AAG.

Following a total revamp of the CNCShop online facility, AAG customers now have faster and easier 24/7 access to a radically expanded range of essential spare parts, accessories and consumables for all AXYZ and WARDJet machines. It is also possible for customers to now engage with one-to-one consultations involving AAG technical engineers, to ensure that the products selected are the most appropriate for a given application.

01952 291600 www.axyz.co.uk

J & C O’Meara was established in 1990 by father-and-son team Joseph O’Meara and Carl, having previously worked for many years as service and installation engineers to the woodworking industry. The company’s original activities were based around the service, maintenance and installation of industrial woodworking machinery, but soon evolved to also include purchasing used machinery.

As the new millennium approached, and with the introduction of the PUWER 98 safety regulations, the company adapted to include the sales of new machinery, and at the time became an authorised stockist and distributor for a number of agencies including Altendorf, Casadei and Sedgwick. In 2003 the company moved to a larger, modern warehouse unit. In 2005, an agreement was reached to work alongside Swiss sanding specialist Kündig, where J & C O’Meara would adopt and independently run the UK subsidiary and expand sales activities by appointing a number of regional dealerships to offer better and more localised access to the Kündig products. 2007 was quite a turning point for the company, which initiated a greater level of independence, and instead of acting solely as an agency and regional distributor, started to import its own range of machinery, introducing the Genisis products to the UK.

Today, the company is run by brother and sister team Carl and Karen O’Meara, and has naturally adapted over time and expanded the sales activities of both J & C O’Meara and Kündig throughout the UK.

Not only does the company have a series of strong products in its portfolio – from sliding table panel saws to CNC machines – it still has the same grassroots family approach to both the business and dealing with customers.

As Carl says: “At times, the larger companies can be a little too corporate, and they forget who the customer really is. We listen to what the customer needs and only offer equipment that is right for them.

“We support them both during and after the sales process, and always strive to meet – and regularly exceed –customers’ Carl O’Meara

J & C O’Meara

expectations.

“2020 was meant to be the time we celebrated 30 years in business, and we were looking forward to a series of promotions along with new product launches, as well as meeting clients new and old at the 2020 W Exhibition. How very differently things turned out!

“I don’t think anyone really knew what to do, or what to expect, as we were all in uncharted territory – and I don’t think anyone was properly prepared for what turned out to be a rollercoaster of a year,” says Carl.

“We locked down the factory in March, but I made sure I was always available to support manufacturers who worked through that difficult period, and always made sure any parts and consumables were readily available and dispatched, along with organising service activities during that time. For the next three months, there was an air of caution and uncertainty.

“In June, as the industry kickstarted, there was a surge in enquiries, which gathered momentum, followed by a complete turnaround and upturn, with many taking advantage of the financial incentives to assist industry – and, as of today, having been busy for the latter half of the year, we are still cautiously optimistic looking ahead to 2021,” says Carl.

“Over the last 30 years we have seen many changes within the industry and have guided the company through two recessions by facing those challenges head-on – not only on a day-to-day basis, but also with a long-term view. This same approach has been taken whilst dealing with the pandemic. I believe it is not only important to consider the ‘here and now’, but to also keep an optimistic eye on what the future may hold. We are, of course, hoping manufacturing continues to flourish, and in turn our company will continue to support the industry.”

Concluding, Carl reports: “Looking forward, we have some exciting plans for 2021 which we have been working on for the last three years – more of this will be revealed in the coming months.”

www.ukwoodworkingmachinery.co.uk

Realising asset finance options

During normal times numerous business owners grapple with the question about what happens if the cash tap is turned off; the Covid-19 crisis has thrown this into sharp relief and made this possibility a certainty for many.

When this happens, the options available to business owners can appear to be stark – pull down the shutters and maybe start again when, or if, things return to normal; go to your lender and ask for a payment holiday or apply for further loans to cover costs and hope for the best.

Or, you could take a step back and look to your physical business assets to prove their worth in ways you may not have thought possible.

For many years, during good times and bad, business owners have increasingly turned to asset finance to help them maintain cash flow.

But what is asset finance? In short, it’s an alternative form of funding used by businesses to obtain the equipment they need to grow or access much-needed cash. Asset finance makes the otherwise unaffordable affordable because it gives businesses access to the equipment they need without incurring the cash flow disadvantage of an outright purchase.

Agreements can also be customised to the business’s needs, with flexibility on both the term and repayment schedule.

There are various products that come under the broad umbrella of asset finance with one of the key ones being Refinancing or capital release, as it’s also known; it’s a proven way to make your assets work for you and release cash back into the business.

It’s pretty straightforward and works by the finance company purchasing the asset and financing it back to you, with repayments calculated in line with the income the asset is expected to generate; at the end of the refinance term, you own the asset.

This offers several great benefits to a business that just needs a cash injection, whether it’s for investment in additional business critical assets or to use in other areas of the business, including unexpected bills and invoices, salaries, VAT payments, diversification – the uses are almost endless. We can also look to take over a finance agreement with another provider and extend the term, ultimately reducing monthly payments and easing the pressure on cash flow.

Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS)

Since being confirmed as an accredited CBILS lender by the British Business Bank, we have used the Government-backed scheme to help multiple firms in a range of different ways, including management buy-outs, equipment purchase, and finance agreement restructures aimed at releasing working capital.

Other examples of asset finance products are: • Hire Purchase (HP) allows the customer to buy the equipment on credit. The finance company purchases the asset on behalf of the customer and owns the asset until the final instalment is paid, at which point the customer is given the option to buy it. • Finance lease: The full value of the equipment is repaid to the finance company, plus interest, over the lease period. At the end of the term, the company can choose to: – continue to use the asset by entering a

secondary rental period – sell the asset and keep a portion of the income from the sale – return it • Operating lease: Similar to a Finance Lease, an Operating Lease allows you to rent the asset from us while you need it. The key difference between the two is that an Operating Lease is only for part of the asset’s useful life. This means you pay a reduced rental because the cost is based on the difference between the asset’s original purchase price and its residual value at the end of the agreement.

Why Close Brothers asset finance?

We are the largest, most successful and longest-established asset finance funder in the UK with over 30 years’ experience working with SMEs through all economic cycles – the fact is, there’s very little we haven’t seen or experienced, although the current crisis is proving to be the exception to the rule.

That said, our approach to helping new and existing customers remains unchanged. Our team of manufacturing finance specialists – many of who have a manufacturing background themselves –understand how vital it is that you have what you need to both survive and thrive.

https://www.closeassetfinance.co.uk/asset-finance