Riverside Wood Products Ltd. has been a family-run business for over 15 years, growing from humble beginnings to a company known for its exceptional craftsmanship and quality. The company serves businesses of all sizes, supplying panels, boards, timber components, and fully assembled products. From high-volume runs to bespoke one-off pieces, Riverside Wood Products combines skill, experience, and cutting-edge machinery to deliver outstanding results every time.
As a team of engineers, Riverside Wood Products has always been keen to explore advancements in CNC technology. When the time came to expand their capabilities, HOMAG was a natural choice.
Selecting the right machinery
“We knew about HOMAG from our own engineering knowledge, but we also spoke to other local businesses who were using their machinery,” explains Paul Sullivan, Manufacturing Manager at Riverside Wood Products. “It quickly became clear that HOMAG’s build quality was far superior to its competitors. It was an easy decision – HOMAG machinery might come at a slightly higher price, but you get what you pay for.”
Riverside Wood Products worked closely with HOMAG to determine the best configuration for their needs. “The back and forth with HOMAG was really valuable. Their machines have a great level of customisation, allowing us to swap out components to optimise costs while pinpointing key upgrades that add long-term value. We never felt like they were just trying to sell us the most expensive option – they genuinely wanted us to get the right fit.”
The final investment included a suite of HOMAG machines: the CENTATEQ N-510, EDGETEQ S-380, EDGETEQ S-380 + LOOPTEQ O-300, XES 200, SAWTEQ B-300, and smartWOP software.
Seeing the technology in action
Before making their final decision, Riverside Wood Products had the opportunity to visit HOMAG’s facilities in Germany. “We went over twice to see the machines in action. HOMAG even allowed us to send products over to test them on-site,” says Paul. “For example, we wanted to see the yield we could achieve on our panels. HOMAG were very accommodating and the results were impressive.”
Installation and training
Bringing in multiple new machines was a major undertaking, but HOMAG’s expertise ensured a smooth process. “The installation was a big operation, especially since we expanded our workshop and added new electrics, extraction systems, and other infrastructure. It wouldn’t have been possible without the professionalism and support from HOMAG.”
Training was also a key part of the process. “The HOMAG engineers were great to work with – they made the transition much easier for our team. A big part of the training focused on the smartWOP software, which took some time to set up but has been well worth it in terms of streamlining our operations.”
A more efficient and scalable operation
The impact of the investment has been transformational. “The CENTATEQ N-510 allows us to nest jumbo sheets and produce more complex shapes in NFC (natural fibre core) panels,” explains Paul. “Features like the panel lifter on the edge bander have made processes faster, cleaner, and safer – our operators no longer need to manually lift heavy sheets, which is a big win for health and safety.
“The machines work together seamlessly. Our beam saw keeps up with our edge banders, and the EDGETEQ S-380 with LOOPTEQ requires just one operator, freeing up another team member. Plus, we’re not constantly moving panels up and down because we can finish a panel in one go.”
This integration has significantly boosted productivity and efficiency, allowing Riverside Wood Products to take on new projects and customers. “It’s been a major financial investment, but we’re confident the machines will pay for themselves in a short time. We can now grow the business in a way that before wouldn’t have been possible.”
Ongoing support from HOMAG
HOMAG’s relationship with Riverside Wood Products didn’t end at the sale. “From day one, we could tell that HOMAG weren’t just knowledgeable but also genuinely helpful. And now, post-sale, that level of service has remained consistent.
“Naturally, there are going to be teething problems with machines of this nature – especially since we have so many! But we never have to worry or stress about it, because we know HOMAG’s support team has our back.”
Paul Sullivan concludes, “All in all, the thing we’re happiest about is the extent to which HOMAG and their various machines have streamlined our operations. Individually, each machine is impressive in its own way, but together they’ve completely transformed the way we operate for the better.”
For more information or a demonstration of HOMAG’s machinery and software, contact Adele Hunt at HOMAG UK on 01332 856424.
