The face of the industry as we know it is changing, as new ways of working and new developments emerge. Our reputation as an engineering nation stands us in good stead but moving forward over the next few years, manufacturers will be called upon to transform themselves, not least in trading in a post-Brexit marketplace.
For all its past successes, the UK manufacturing industry faces stiff challenges, if we are to remain competitive as players on the global stage. The pressure is on, above all, to deliver better quality parts through faster cycle times at least cost.
Improving the efficiency of the production process is only part of the equation: with many companies still using machines over twenty years old, a lot of manufacturers are looking to invest in new machining technology.
Demand is increasingly focused on higher value machines which offer the flexibility and speed of throughput plus the required quality and precision to meet increasingly complex machining requirements cost-effectively.
While the higher up-front investment in the new, high-performance machines is more than offset by savings in production over time, deciding which machine to purchase or investing in newer technologies such as automated handling systems can be a daunting prospect. A key factor which weighs in many buyers’ decision-making is resourcing the necessary engineering skills to optimise the machining process to ensure maximum efficiency and the shortest possible payback. With measures in place to address the issue, the skills gap is starting to narrow but we are some way off from filling the quota yet.
Kingsbury’s success is built around service. From the beginning, we set out to create an infrastructure that could provide our customers with ongoing support from the pre-sales stage through installation and implementation to training and resolving machining issues. This approach is centred on supplying the right products delivered by the right people trained to the highest possible standards.
For us it is about providing solutions to address real issues. Every machine sale is an individual project, which starts with extensive pre-sales consultation from our engineering team looking at the bigger picture. A holistic approach, this means we also get involved in design development and research and testing to ensure the right cutting technologies and controls are in place. Our customers rely on the added value we offer, not only at the outset but in the form of skilled input during the machines lifetime, helping to optimise processes and keeping machines running with minimal downtime.
This year, we have added considerably to our capabilities to enhance our support services, with the addition of a new Grinding Division, plus associated engineering expertise to support our new partnership with Haas Schleifmaschinen. We have also extended our coverage with the further development of the Midlands Hub and a new office in Belfast to serve Northern Ireland and Ireland.
Looking forward to 2018, we have made two strategic appointments which will help us drive forward our growth plans over the coming months and years.
‘It’s great to be working with a company that is focused on ensuring customers get the right solution: providing this additional support is absolutely key in our marketplace, especially now. My goal is to keep Kingsbury at the top of the pyramid by providing added value in everything we do.’
Richard Hughes – Sales Director MTG (Milling Turning and Grinding)
As Sales Director for Milling, Turning and Grinding, Richard’s remit is to maximise Kingsbury’s presence in the CNC machining marketplace, covering milling, turning and grinding solutions. Based in our Midlands Hub and with all-round experience of technical and sales disciplines gained over 30 years, Richard is well-placed to advise clients looking to modernise or upgrade their production facilities.
‘This role is a natural progression for me. I am looking forward to the challenge of taking the LPM Division to a new level, consolidating the success achieved since its inception. As part of this process, I will also be looking to expand out presence in other industry sectors with a requirement for machining large components.’
Graeme Thomas – Business Development Director LPM (Large Prismatic Machines)
Also working out of our Midlands hub, Graeme will spearhead the further development of Kingsbury LPM machine division. Experienced in the automotive and aerospace industries, Graeme joins Kingsbury having spent the last 7 years as a Key Account Director. His remit is to drive the sales growth of LPM machines in the UK & Ireland and consolidate Kingsbury’s position as a market-leading supplier.
As 2017 draws to a close, we are excited about the new developments we have planned for next year which will help us support you with your own growth plans. Look out for more news in 2018 and do contact Graeme or Richard if you need advice on modernisation or production issues.
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