Based in Northern Ireland, Fabtops Solid Surfaces is a specialist fabricator offering high-quality solid surface solutions for residential, commercial, and healthcare projects. The company, while purposefully small in number, combines over three decades of shopfitting expertise with a passion for craftsmanship. Their bespoke services, from DuPont Corian® to LG Hi-Macs and more, have earned them a loyal, high-end customer base.
Despite their strong reputation, Fabtops recently faced challenges with their ageing equipment, leading to inefficiencies and limitations in production capabilities. To overcome these issues, they turned to HOMAG for a state-of-the-art solution.
Out with the old
Fabtops’ older machinery was becoming a bottleneck in their production. Managing Director Patrick Hannaway explains, “The clamping system was outdated, leading to movement and sizing errors. It was inefficient, a nightmare to operate, and we were afraid to push it too hard for fear of breaking something. It felt like we were stuck.”
Recognising the need for a modern solution to maintain their high standards while improving efficiency, Fabtops began searching for a machine that could meet their current and future needs.
Choosing HOMAG
After hearing positive feedback from similar businesses using HOMAG equipment, Fabtops initiated their search. Their first point of contact was Paul from HOMAG, whose hands-on approach made a lasting impression.
“Paul was fantastic,” recalls Patrick. “He cut out samples and sent them to us, and we couldn’t believe the quality. He took the time to understand our business and recommended exactly what we needed – and what we didn’t. Without Paul, we might have overspent. HOMAG genuinely wants what’s best for you.”
After evaluating their options, Fabtops chose the CENTATEQ N-210, a CNC gantry-processing centre designed to handle high-precision tasks with ease.
Seamless installation and training
The installation process was smooth and efficient. “It couldn’t have been better,” says Patrick. “We were given clear timelines months in advance, and the machine arrived exactly on schedule.”
On-site training was equally impressive: “Aaron led the integration, and my team loved the training. They couldn’t wait to get started with the machine. We were treated like kings at their training centre – the catering was especially fantastic! HOMAG’s professionalism is unmatched.”
Immediate benefits
Since installing the CENTATEQ N-210, Fabtops has seen transformative improvements in their operations. The increased speed of production has been a standout benefit, as Patrick explains: “The speed is incredible. We only need to run the machine 3-4 hours a day, and it’s doing far more than we ever managed before.”
In addition to faster production, the machine has significantly lowered operating costs. “The machine uses less power and has reduced our operating costs. The ability to turn it off when tasks are complete is a big saving.”
Precision has also improved dramatically. “We can handle big sheets with big rigging easily, and the accuracy is unmatched. It’s easier to program and run, making production smoother than ever.”
Outstanding service
Fabtops’ experience with HOMAG didn’t end at the point of sale; their ongoing support has been a standout feature. “The machine has been so reliable that we’ve only had to call HOMAG once since installation. In fact, they rang us the other week because they hadn’t heard from us and wanted to make sure we were getting on OK! I’ve been in this industry long enough to know – that level of service is rare indeed.
“I also want to give a special mention to Dereck Reed, the HOMAG agent in Ireland. From the moment we met, Dereck’s service was first-class. He got us on track right away, inviting us to the HOMAG HQ in England and introducing us to Paul. Within two weeks, they had our programmes ready to run on our Corian surfaces, which was just so impressive.”
Looking ahead
While Fabtops remains content with their niche market and manageable size, they’re already considering expanding their product range. With the CENTATEQ N-210 as the cornerstone of their workshop, their next move will undoubtedly involve HOMAG.
“We’re not chasing wild growth, but when it’s time to expand, HOMAG will be our first choice. For now, the CENTATEQ N-210 is helping us do what we’ve always done – only faster, better, and more efficiently. We couldn’t be happier with the investment.”
For more information or a demonstration of HOMAG’s machinery and software, contact Adele Hunt at HOMAG UK on 01332 856424.
