Cut Edge Bond, a woodworking supply shop based in Buckinghamshire, has quickly made a name for itself by delivering cut-to-size panels, edge banding, and bonding services to the highest of standards. Despite operating out of a modest 1,800 square foot workshop, the business caters to a wide range of customers, from carpenters and builders to DIY enthusiasts.
Since launching just two and a half years ago, Cut Edge Bond has expanded its services and client base. However, when founders Jose and Sophie first started, their production capabilities were limited by older, manual machinery that slowed down operations and placed the entire burden of production on Jose. To solve this, they decided to invest in some automated HOMAG magic.
The challenge
Jose and Sophie originally ran Cut Edge Bond with a pair of early-2000s machines – robust, but outdated, and fully reliant on manual settings that demanded hands-on operation. “Our setup was the same as it is now – a machine that cuts and a machine that edges,” explains Jose. “But they were old bangers that were slow and frankly frustrating to use. I was constantly adjusting settings by hand which significantly limited production efficiency.”
To grow their business, they needed an upgrade that could ease their workload and increase their output. “When it came to selecting a new machine, we were looking at the bigger picture. I remember Sophie saying, ‘It would be nice to have something even I can operate!’ At that time she was focused solely on the business side of things, and had never used an edge bander before… so we were looking for something very simple, very automated and very powerful.
“HOMAG was the first company that came to mind. We also looked at their competitors just to be certain. But ultimately, HOMAG ticked every box and was the clear choice.”
HOMAG’s solution
After running through their specific needs with HOMAG, Jose and Sophie decided to invest in the EDGETEQ S-300 edge bander.
With this new, automated machine, Sophie was able to contribute directly to production with minimal training. “It’s amazing that someone with no prior experience with an edge bander can simply press a button and get the job done,” says Jose. "And in terms of output… the speed, finish, and quality are amazing. It’s improved our work production massively."
A year later, Cut Edge Bond upgraded their beam saw to the HOMAG SAWTEQ B-300, which provided the same level of efficiency and ease of use. “The machine itself is brilliant, and coupled with the combiTec software, it’s remarkably efficient, fast and smart. The automated nature of the system takes away a lot of the human reliability and therefore minimises any human error.”
The technical support from HOMAG has also been crucial in helping the business run smoothly. “We can’t fault HOMAG’s technicians,” says Jose. “They’re very knowledgeable and provide an excellent service.”
Double the capacity
By enabling Sophie to assist with production, and providing a more efficient process, the new HOMAG machinery has made quite the difference to Cut Edge Bond’s operation. “We’ve increased our capacity by 100% – and some days it feels more like 150%,” says Jose.
As a result, the company’s growth has been tangible. With the boost in productivity, Jose and Sophie were able to hire two additional team members, expanding their business to meet increasing demand.
Looking ahead
Cut Edge Bond continues to thrive, and Jose credits the new HOMAG machines as a cornerstone of their success. "The machines have become a great and essential pillar to our business,” he says. “We can now take on more work, and the precision of these machines ensures that we deliver top-quality products every time."
With an eye on the future, Cut Edge Bond is poised for continued growth, confident that their partnership with HOMAG will support their expansion and provide the technology they need to succeed.
For more information or a demonstration of any of the HOMAG machinery and software, contact Adele Hunt at HOMAG UK on 01332 856424.
