An Oxfordshire shopfitter experiencing growth in the DIY multiple sector is planning a major upgrade in manufacturing technology to keep pace with demand.
Alser UK Ltd of Faringdon has earmarked “five or six” new machines for a planned £2m purpose-built factory to be constructed nearby. It is seeking planning permission for the project.
The company, whose clients include B&Q and Wickes, has seen turnover increase from £3m to £7.5m in just five years and is now predicting the figure will soon break the £10m barrier. Joint managing director Geoff Prichard said production was running at 120% capacity, with some business having to be turned down as a result.
Alser has already spent £8,000 upgrading its sanding technology to improve flexibility and help ensure final product quality.
Abacon Lower Topspin MultiSanders have been set up for pre-finishing and denibbing of sprayed components – one with a vertical spindle for edge finishing and the other with a horizontal spindle for face finishing. Their SlipCon abrasive brush systems feature edge-tapered abrasive strips mounted on hubs, designed to prevent scuffing or inconsistent marking.
On the edge sanding machine, Abacon has designed a rise and fall spindle so that the spindle carries both abrasive brush for pre-finishing and denibbing.
Advantages of the sanders cited by Mr Prichard include an easy set-up and operation, virtually no maintenance and low capital investment. “We can use them as and when required without downtime costing money.”
