Bellway Homes has strengthened its manufacturing capability with the installation of a HOMAG SAWTEQ S-300, enabling high-speed, high-volume processing of a wide range of panel materials.
Founded in 1946, Bellway Homes is one of the UK’s leading housebuilders, delivering high-quality homes designed around the needs of modern families. The company has been awarded 5-star builder status by the Home Builders Federation for nine consecutive years, and in 2025, it was named Large Housebuilder of the Year at the Housebuilder Awards.
As part of a new company set-up, Bellway recently identified the need for a high-performance panel saw to support its increasingly large-scale production – and turned to HOMAG for a machine up to the task.
A proven solution for a new operation
“I joined the business in June last year, and one of the things I noticed straight away was that we were missing a board saw,” explains Paul Bilbie, Manufacturing Director at Bellway.
The solution was clear. “Having purchased three SAWTEQ S-300s in a previous role, and knowing how well they performed, I knew it was exactly the machine we needed.
“Probably the biggest appeal with the S-300 was knowing we could cut everything we needed to cut – plasterboard, OSB, CaberDek, and more – all on the same machine.”
Aside from the proven capabilities of the S-300, HOMAG’s industry-leading service was another factor in the decision. “I’ve known the UK team for a while, and we’ve always had a good relationship. I had no hesitation in turning to them for this investment.”
Smooth installation and confident operators
The installation and onboarding process ensured Bellway’s team could get up to speed quickly. “Installation went very well,” says Paul. “We had a training course when the machine was commissioned which was really good. We’ve since had another training course, as we’ve had a couple of new starters we wanted to get up to speed. Each time, HOMAG has left our operators feeling totally confident with the machine.”
Built for capacity, speed and reliability
Since installation, the machine has delivered exactly what Bellway requires from a production standpoint: versatility, speed and consistency.
“The main benefit is the sheer capability of the machine,” Paul explains. “It can handle any type of panel with ease, and the reliability of the cut is as good as it gets.”
For a high-volume manufacturer, speed is equally critical. “The S-300 works fast and truly supports the high levels of capacity we need, especially when we load double or triple stacks of panels.”
A solid partnership
The ongoing relationship with HOMAG continues to add value, as Paul says, “The customer service has been excellent as ever; in my experience, it never falters.
“The S-300 is a true all-rounder. For anyone wanting to cut multiple different products, I doubt there’s a better option out there in this price range. We’re thrilled with this investment and very pleased to have HOMAG as a partner moving forward.”
For more information or a demonstration of HOMAG’s machinery and software, contact HOMAG UK on 01332 856500, dialling option 4 for the sales department, or email [email protected].
