Panel & Joinery Mar ISSUU

Titus has been designing cabinetry hardware for over 40 years. Our precision-engineered components provide lifetime performance and smooth operation.

dp-lite. the lighter choice.

Extremely low in weight and has excellent stability allowing vast creative freedom.

Offers weight savings compared to chipboard of some 60%.

Manufactured in a range of sizes and thicknesses – can be supplied raw or laminated.

A full range of competitively priced fixings available.

Can be supplied with longitudinal rails or completely frameless

Plywood skins can also be applied for extra weight savings.

Ureka

Weinig

BPI strengthens woodworking & appoints Business Development Manager

As BPI continues to build its presence across the UK, strengthening support in the South has become a key strategic focus.

The woodworking sector in this region is vibrant, diverse and growing. Recognising the value of dedicated expertise on the ground, BPI has introduced an additional Business Development Manager to reinforce its commitment to being closer to customers. The appointment strengthens the organisation’s ability to provide practical knowledge, industry insight and consistent support as the business continues to expand.

BPI has appointed Ashley Woodfine to support its growing presence in the South. Ashley brings more than 20 years of industry experience, underpinned by strong technical expertise and a thorough understanding of the woodworking sector.

“My role is focused on reinforcing BPI’s presence across the southern region,” said Ashley. strong relationships with workshops, joinery manufacturers and cabinet makers, and ensuring we provide the technical understanding and industry insight that customers expect as the business grows.

“Looking ahead, machinery and software are expected to play an even greater role in addressing the industry’s skills shortage. Ten years ago, machine software was often slow and disconnected. Today, businesses can present drawings on site and send that same job directly to CNC machinery in the workshop. That integration between design and manufacture is set to become even more seamless over the next five years and auctions will continue to play an important part in making that technology attainable for more businesses.

“As BPI strengthens its southern operations, the goal is to remain close to the industry, offering practical support and understanding alongside commercial expertise. Growth remains important, but it is underpinned by knowledge and strong relationships.

“To support the increasing interest from both buyers and sellers, BPI is also launching a Woodworking Collective auction, taking place twice a month. This dedicated auction will provide a consistent platform for woodworking machinery and equipment, helping sellers reach an engaged audience while giving buyers regular opportunities to secure quality assets that can directly enhance productivity and profitability.

“It is an exciting time for woodworking and for BPI. I look forward to working with businesses across the South and playing my part in supporting the next stage of the industry’s evolution.” www.bpiauctions.com

Biesse appoints new chief commercial officer to lead UK business

Biesse is pleased to announce the appointment of Chris Arend as Chief Commercial Officer UK, a role in which he will also coordinate the country leadership team. With solid experience in the industrial sector, gained both at Biesse and in other organizations, as well as in-depth expertise across different materials and sectors, Chris brings a practical and strategic vision to support the company’s development in the UK market.

“The appointment of Chris Arend is a key step in our strategy to strengthen Biesse’s presence in our most important global markets,” said Federico Broccoli, Group Chief Commercial Officer.

“The UK represents a strategic market for Biesse, and investing in strong local leadership allows us to be closer to our customers, better understand their needs, and support their growth with solutions that combine global expertise and local insight.”

Throughout his career, Chris has demonstrated a strong ability to interpret diverse customer needs and develop solutions that drive sustainable business growth. In his new role, he will focus on strengthening customer proximity, providing direct support to customers’ businesses, and ensuring that Biesse’s solutions are increasingly aligned with local market requirements.

This appointment marks an important phase in the development of the company’s UK business and reflects the ongoing commitment to customer centricity, proactive service, and long-term growth. By strengthening local leadership and collaboration with customers, Biesse aims to further enhance its presence in the UK and continue delivering innovative, tailored solutions that respond to evolving industry needs.

Elmbridge UK acquires Minden Systems

Elmbridge UK, part of the ESC Spinnaker Group, has acquired Minden Systems Limited.

Minden has built an excellent reputation over more than two decades for providing high-quality products, service and technical expertise to its customers. We are very pleased to welcome the Minden team into the wider ESC Spinnaker group and look forward to supporting the continued success of the business.

Importantly, it is very much business as usual. Minden will continue to operate as Minden Systems Ltd, with the same experienced team delivering the same high level of service and support that customers know and trust.

While Minden will remain a standalone business, becoming part of the ESC Spinnaker group brings additional resources, expertise and opportunities for growth. Elmbridge UK’s specialist knowledge in coatings, spray equipment and associated consumables complements Minden’s capabilities and will help strengthen the offering available to customers.

As part of the ESC Spinnaker group, Elmbridge UK continues to invest in businesses that complement our expertise and enhance the value we bring to customers. Bringing Minden into the group strengthens our technical offering and creates new opportunities for collaboration, innovation and growth across our businesses.

Managing Director, Barrie Freeman, “This marks a significant investment, both personally and professionally. We feel very privileged to take on this well-established brand in the UK. The prospects and opportunities are exciting, and we look forward to seeing where this journey takes us!”

For customers and partners, it is very much business as usual, backed by positive plans for the future and a continued focus on quality, reliability, and service.

KBB Birmingham marks 40 years with a standout edition milestone year

Kbb Birmingham, the UK’s largest dedicated kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms exhibition, has concluded its 40th anniversary edition. The show welcomed close to 16,000 visitors who explored offerings from 320 exhibitors spanning 26 categories across the show floor. The event brought the KBB community together for high impact networking, the latest product launches and impressive award wins. Innovation Awards

On the final day of the show winners of the 2026 Innovation Awards, in partnership with Blum, were revealed. The award scheme recognises the most forward-thinking and technically advanced products that can make a real difference within the KBB sector.

The People’s Choice Award winner was Sensio Lighting’s Affinity Magnetic Track Lighting System.

The Judge’s Choice went to Flova UK, for its DripFree® Rainshower.

The Sustainability Award winner was Finsa with its Fimapan Bio BDecor, a biobased, wood particle board for the furniture industry. It is manufactured with adhesives of biological origin obtained from tree bark, a paraffin of vegetable origin and thermos-fused decorative options impregnated with bio-resins.

“I’m so proud to be celebrating four decades of kbb Birmingham as the industry’s meeting place for KBB professionals. We look forward to building on this proud legacy and welcoming everyone back for the 2028 edition!” said Sam Fisher, Event Director of kbb Birmingham.

kbb Birmingham will return to the NEC from 5th to 8th March 2028.

From design vision to manufacturing certainty

Hexagon highlights connected cabinetry workflows at kbb Birmingham

The kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms sector is becoming steadily more design led. But for manufacturers, greater design freedom also means greater production complexity.

At kbb Birmingham this year, that tension was visible across the show floor. Richer materials, layered textures, and more personalised cabinetry solutions were everywhere.

Yet behind the aesthetics lies a practical challenge: turning increasingly bespoke designs into products that can still be manufactured efficiently and reliably.

That challenge framed much of the discussion on Hexagon’s stand.

Rather than focusing purely on design presentation, the company demonstrated how digital workflows can help manufacturers move from to production preparation demonstrations centred on how ALPHACAM support a connected process, allowing cabinetry to move from while reducing the manual interpretation that can introduce errors or delays.

In today’s KBB environment, customers expect personalised solutions, yet manufacturers still need repeatable processes that allow them to deliver projects profitably. Achieving both requires software that adapts to design variation while maintaining control over how cabinets are actually engineered and produced.

One of the key topics explored on the stand was dimensional automation

Cabinetry rarely fits neatly into standardised dimensions once it reaches a real project environment. Walls are seldom perfectly square, site conditions vary, and designers frequently adjust cabinet proportions to suit a space. When those changes occur, the underlying product definition must adapt with them.

Hexagon demonstrated how CABINET VISION manages cabinetry parametrically across width, height, and depth, allowing designs to update dynamically while preserving the correct construction logic and manufacturing data.

When cabinet dimensions change, production information such as machining operations, cut lists, and assembly details updates automatically. This reduces the need for manual recalculation and helps ensure the information passed to production reflects the latest design intent. This capability is increasingly important as bespoke and semibespoke work continues to grow across the KBB sector.

Many design platforms in the wider market remain centred on catalogue-driven configuration, allowing designers to select predefined products and adapt them within certain limits. While this approach works well for showroom presentation and standard product ranges, it can be restrictive for manufacturers working with their own construction standards and production methods. Hexagon’s approach focuses instead on manufacturer-defined product logic

With CABINET VISION, manufacturers can create their own cabinet assemblies, define construction methods, and establish rules that reflect how their products are built and machined. In practice, this allows companies to develop bespoke catalogues that mirror their own production standards rather than relying entirely on fixed product libraries.

For businesses producing customised cabinetry, this balance allows design freedom while preserving production discipline.

Importantly, this capability sits within the same workflow. Designs developed in CABINET VISION can flow directly into production preparation, including CNC programming via ALPHACAM, helping ensure the data used on the shop floor reflects the approved design.

Manufacturers face growing expectations for product variety and faster delivery, while skilled labour remains difficult to recruit and retain. Embedding product knowledge into digital workflows allows businesses to preserve expertise and apply it consistently across projects.

Rather than relying solely on individual experience, construction rules and production logic can be captured within the software environment, helping teams move from order confirmation to manufacturing readiness with greater confidence.

Hexagon’s presence at kbb Birmingham reflected that practical reality.

“Design creativity and individuality will continue to drive the KBB sector forward,” for Wood, Stone & Composites at Hexagon Production Software Division.

fitted furniture project lies a manufacturing process that must remain controlled, repeatable, and profitable. By connecting accurate site data, intelligent cabinetry design, and productionready preparation within a single workflow, we can support manufacturers’ deliver their design ambitions without losing control of production.”

Finsa redefines interior solutions with Habitat 360 at kbb Birmingham

Following a highly successful exhibition at kbb Birmingham 2026, Finsa UK and Ireland have cemented their position as the premier strategic partner for the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom sectors. The event served as the highly anticipated UK premiere of the Habitat 360 ecosystem, drawing significant attention from industry professionals looking for the next generation of materials. Rather than simply presenting isolated products, Finsa showcased an intelligent, immersive environment connecting design directly with industry. By creating this dynamic bridge, Finsa offers interior designers, joiners, and furniture manufacturers a true “One-Stop-Shop” capable of elevating interior projects from initial concept to flawless execution.

Habitat 360: A Total Collection for Habitat

At the exhibition’s core was Habitat 360. Offering unprecedented creative capability, this comprehensive ecosystem features over 18 decorative ranges and 422 design references, providing a vast palette for interior design. By weaving in the ‘Total Look’ system, Habitat 360 allows designers and manufacturers to perfectly coordinate surfaces and accessories across every single application. More than a material collection, it is a comprehensive platform built upon five key commitments to the professional sector:

All in One Place: Streamlining supply chains by uniting advanced technical boards, cutting-edge decorative solutions, and tailored professional services within a single, cohesive ecosystem.

Your Vision, Connected: Acting as a vital link between the creative and manufacturing phases, ensuring your initial design concept remains intact by connecting projects with the right manufacturers and distributors for perfect execution.

Design That Transforms: Placing high-quality design at the core of the manufacturing process to help you craft specific atmospheres, manipulate space, and elevate the end-user experience.

A Stable Partnership: Going far beyond material supply by supporting professionals through every phase with specialised technical assistance, exclusive digital tools, and ongoing training programs.

Environmental Care: Demonstrating a steadfast commitment to sustainable, circular, and efficient solutions that actively minimise environmental impact across the product lifecycle.

Innovation in Surface and Texture

The Finsa stand served as a gallery for three highly innovative decorative ranges:

Fabric: This collection introduces a new dimension in surface design by integrating authentic textiles and recycled natural leather directly onto the board. Available in distinct, highly tactile finishes such as Suede, Linum (Linen), and Pelle (Leather), Fabric delivers an immediate luxury aesthetic. This ready-to-use finish entirely eliminates the complexity, processing time, and cost associated with working with traditional fabric materials, making it the ideal, high-efficiency solution for premium wardrobes, headboards, and luxury cabinetry.

Sense Natur: Representing the next evolution of natural veneer, Sense Natur is designed to streamline the use of veneered panels. Delivered fully varnished and ready to use, it provides the authentic grain, warmth, and uniqueness of real wood alongside a highly durable, premium finish. This ready-to-use, pre-finished design saves valuable time by removing the need for complex finishing processes. It is an ideal solution for both large-scale commercial rollouts and independent joiners stepping into the world of natural veneer, ensuring absolute colour and finish consistency across any project.

FibraPan® Tex & FibraPan® Tex Natur: These collections redefine architectural relief. FibraPan® Tex combines the core stability and reliability of industrial wood with deep, highly detailed embossed textures engineered for superior lacquering results. Expanding upon this dramatic architectural relief, FibraPan® Tex Natur pairs the exact same deeply pressed linear and organic textures with a natural wood veneer. This innovative combination marries the dramatic depth of the texture with the innate, inviting warmth of oak and walnut.

Finsa’s ‘One-Stop-Shop’ Solution

To reinforce this overarching ecosystem approach, Finsa demonstrated its complete suite accessories. From versatile aluminium profiles and sleek screw cap covers to colour-matched edging available for the entire decorative portfolio. This true “one-stop-shop” approach simplifies the specification process, allowing you to achieve a flawless total look with ease.

Putting the user first by tackling HAVS with the help of technology

The way tools are designed and developed has changed dramatically over the years and manufacturers are no longer focused solely on performance; they are also prioritising the safety, comfort, and long-term wellbeing of the people who use them. As a result, companies have invested heavily in research and development to create tools that are durable, efficient and capable of delivering a highquality finish across a wide range of surfaces. However, just as important is the aim to reduce the risks associated with Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS). HAVS is a serious condition that affects the blood vessels, nerves, muscles, and joints in the hands, wrists, and arms. In addition, it is particularly dangerous since it often develops gradually and without obvious warning signs.

Without the red flags being seen, many workers, no matter their age, may not realise they are being affected by HAVS until the damage has already begun. This is partly because individuals can have very different tolerances to the vibrations produced by tools, which means some people may feel the effects much sooner than others. In some cases, workers only recognise the issue when they switch to a different tool or stop using their usual one for a period of time.

Neil Newbrook, business sector manager, Wood, Mirka UK Ltd, explains what Mirka is doing in the fight against HAVS. “Mirka believes the focus should always be on the person using the tool. That’s why the myMirka app was developed for the Bluetooth-enabled tools in our product portfolio. The app gives operators instant feedback on the vibration levels produced by their tool, and it is displayed on a simple colour-coded scale, so it’s easy to see when exposure is getting too high. If levels increase, the app provides practical guidance on how to reduce vibration and work more safely. In addition, for businesses looking for deeper insight, an optional in-app upgrade tracks daily vibration exposure and compares it with European HAV standards. This allows companies to understand how tools are being used on site, monitor operator exposure, and introduce measures that better protect their workforce and their joints over time.”

To complement the app, Neil also highlighted several top tips to help protect against HAVS:

• An increase in vibration can cause damage to the tool, so be aware that any variation in the weight of the pad other than when using P180 paper discs can cause the machine to vibrate more.

• Always use a genuine Mirka backing pad on Mirka tools, as it has been specifically designed for certain machines (a DEROS / PROS 150mm backing pad is engineered to weigh exactly 130 g). However, if you use a generic nonMirka pad, it may alter the vibration of the tool and, in turn, cause damage to the bearing and other aspects of the tool. Mirka tools returned with non-Mirka pads fitted are not covered by the Mirka warranty.

• If you intend to use an interface pad (5mm / 10mm), you should remove the backing pad and insert the grub screw that comes in the box with the tool into the remaining threaded hole beneath the pad. This will counterbalance the weight of the interface pad and reduce the vibration of the tool when in use. Refer to the manual for correct installation.

• Ensure that the product is regularly serviced for optimum performance.

OVVO - when assembly becomes a design decision

For decades, furniture assembly has largely been treated as the final step in the product development process. Designers focused on aesthetics and function, engineers handled manufacturing feasibility, and the practicalities of assembly were often addressed only once the product reached the factory floor or installation site.

Today, that approach is beginning to change. Across the furniture and interiors sector, manufacturers are increasingly recognising that assembly methods play a critical role not only in production efficiency, but also in logistics, installation, and overall product performance. As a result, assembly is no longer simply a technical consideration at the end of the design cycle. Instead, it is becoming an integral part of the design conversation from the very beginning.

This shift is particularly evident within the contract interiors market, where projects demand speed, consistency, and reliability at scale. Whether furnishing offices, hospitality environments, or residential developments, manufacturers and installers face growing pressure to deliver high quality products within tighter timelines. Small inefficiencies during assembly can quickly translate into delays, additional labour costs, or alignment issues on site.

By considering assembly earlier in the design process, manufacturers can address these challenges more effectively. Furniture components can be designed to integrate faster joining systems, reduce reliance on tools or adhesives, and simplify installation across large projects. The result is not only improved manufacturing efficiency, but also smoother installation for contractors and installers working on complex interiors projects.

Industry conversations at recent international events such as KBIS and KBB have highlighted this growing focus on design for assembly. Manufacturers are increasingly exploring ways to simplify product construction while

maintaining the structural performance and visual quality expected in modern furniture.

Connector innovation role in enabling this shift. Systems that allow fast, accurate alignment and repeatable assembly can help manufacturers streamline production workflows while maintaining consistency across large volumes of furniture components.

Recognition of these developments was reflected at Interzum Guangzhou, where OVVO received an award for its connector technology. Industry platforms such as these provide an opportunity to showcase how advances in furniture hardware are helping manufacturers rethink long established assembly processes.

At the same time, the broader furniture market continues to evolve, with new retail channels and product categories embracing simplified assembly solutions. Recent traction around the launch of OVVO enabled laundry units on Home Depot, illustrates how assembly innovation can support both manufacturing efficiency and end user convenience.

As the furniture sector continues to evolve, it is becoming increasingly clear that assembly is no longer just the final step in production. Instead, it is emerging as a strategic design consideration that influences how furniture is manufactured, transported, installed, and ultimately experienced by the end user.

For manufacturers operating in the contract interiors space, designing with assembly in mind may well prove to be one of the most important shifts shaping the future of furniture production.

CASE STUDY

Painted Ltd transforms spray finishing with HOMAG , Makor and Heesemann

Leading finishing specialist Painted Ltd has taken its craftsmanship to new heights with the installation of a Makor Evolution Twin spray machine and a Heesemann MFA Impression wide belt sander, supplied and supported by HOMAG UK. The investment has dramatically improved speed, quality, and consistency while reducing labour demands and production bottlenecks.

About Painted Ltd

Painted Ltd provides high-end spray painting, joinery, and coating services from its facility in London. Through its three divisions – Painted Professional Spray Painting, Painted Bespoke Joinery, and Painted Industrial Coatings – the company offers a complete solution for designers, architects, and developers.

With a reputation built on exceptional quality and customer care, Painted’s services range from full kitchen resprays and bespoke furniture finishing to industrial coating and on-site spraying. Their ethos is simple: deliver flawless results, quickly and cost effectively, all under one roof.

Breaking the bottleneck

As demand for Painted’s spray finishing services surged, the company began to feel the strain on production. “We encountered a bottleneck,” explains Emilia Dlutowski, CEO at Painted Ltd. “Our guys were having to work overtime just to keep up. We were rushing projects and trying to find additional skilled sprayers, but finding good sprayers is like finding a needle in a haystack.”

To maintain their standards and meet deadlines, Emilia knew automation was the answer. “We had to ease the pressure on our team without compromising quality. Investing in a spray line became the obvious next step.”

Building on previous success

This wasn’t Painted’s first experience with HOMAG. A few years earlier, the company had invested in a HOMAG edge bander, panel dividing saw, and CNC machining centre to expand its bespoke joinery division, an investment that proved transformative.

“That earlier partnership with HOMAG helped us accelerate growth across our joinery arm,” says Emilia. “It gave us the confidence and financial headroom to make this next leap forward in our spraying division. HOMAG are simply fantastic; there was never any question of going elsewhere.”

Choosing the best of the best Emilia admits she’s “only ever interested in the best machinery.” During CNC training at HOMAG’s Castle Donington showroom a few years ago, she first caught sight of a Makor spraying system. “It was all wrapped up, but they let me have a peek,” she recalls. “It was clear it was something special. From that moment, I knew that when the time came to invest in a spray line, Makor machinery would fit the bill.”

When demand began to outpace capacity, that time arrived, and Emilia knew exactly what she wanted. “I went straight for the Makor Evolution Twin,” she says. “It’s one of the most advanced machines of its kind. With spraying, it’s vital to hit the product from the right angles. The twin head allows us to spray from multiple directions, ensuring perfect coverage every time.”

Integration, transformation

The new spraying system, installed by HOMAG in partnership with Makor, marked a turning point for the business. “It’s a highly technical machine and comes with a learning curve,” says Emilia, “but HOMAG and Makor have been amazing. They held our hand throughout the transition. The installation itself was an incredible feat, involving fork lifts and a very skilled Makor engineer who assembled everything with precision.”

To complete the setup, Painted also invested in a Sames Kremlin Evo system, a digitally controlled mixing and injection system that integrates seamlessly with the spray line. “Makor recommended it, and together they’re just nextlevel. The synergy between the technology is unbelievable; we’ve never seen results like it.”

Five days of work in two

The impact has been dramatic. “Before, it would take five days to complete a full project, and that was at a push,” Emilia explains. “Now we can spray an entire kitchen in two days, and if it weren’t for drying time, we could do it in one, easily.”

The Heesemann MFA Impression, which they had installed a couple of months after the spray line, has also played a big part in this transformation. “Preparing pieces for priming used to take a full day,” says Emilia. “Now we can run a whole kitchen through the Heesemann in 10 to 15 minutes. Then the Makor takes over for primer coating – just 40 minutes per side – and we’re ready for topcoat the next day. The finish quality is simply flawless.”

With these efficiencies, Painted has cut labour hours, reduced costs, and eliminated bottlenecks while achieving consistently perfect results. “We were professional sprayers before,” Emilia adds, “but now our work has escalated to an incredibly high standard.”

The HOMAG effect

For Emilia, HOMAG was, is and always will be the natural choice. “Our relationship with HOMAG has always been extremely positive,” she explains, “and Makor and Heesemann have been equally responsive, helpful and professional throughout. When we open our second and third locations, we’ll be investing in more of their machinery, that’s for certain.”

She concludes, “This was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made for the business.”

For more information or a demonstration of HOMAG, Makor and Heesemann machinery and software, please contact HOMAG UK on 01332 856500, option 4 for the sales department. Or email info-uk@homag.com.

BJ Waller strengthening service capability

BJ Waller, specialist distributor of timber window and door hardware for the UK joinery sector, has announced a series of operational improvements designed to strengthen stock availability, fulfilment consistency and long-term service confidence for its customers.

With over 40 years’ experience supporting joinery manufacturers, specialist joiners and fabricators, BJ Waller has built a reputation as a trusted technical partner for timber window and door production. Recent activity has focused on strengthening the service foundations behind the business to ensure customers receive the reliability and responsiveness they need to keep production moving.

Over recent weeks, BJ Waller has increased stockholding across key product lines, supporting improved availability and more consistent fulfilment for customers across the UK. Further improvements are also underway as the business continues to invest in operational capability and service performance.

Importantly, BJ Waller has confirmed that the core customer-facing team remains unchanged. Customers will

continue to deal with the same specialists they rely on for product knowledge, technical guidance and joinery-specific support.

Luke Piper, Business Development Director - Timber, commented:

“BJ Waller has always been built on trust and technical expertise. What we’re doing now is strengthening the service foundations behind the scenes so we can support joinery manufacturers more consistently. The team and the knowledge our customers rely on remains exactly the same - we’re simply reinforcing what sits behind it. Ultimately, it gives us more time and capability to work directly with customers, helping them choose the right products and keep their production moving.”

BJ Waller supports professional joinery manufacturers with sector-specific hardware solutions for timber windows and doors, including multipoint locking systems, hinges, thresholds and sealing products. As a founding member of The Joinery Network, BJ Waller also works closely with the joinery sector to support modern compliance requirements and performance-led specification.

FEATURE

Upgrading your finishing process

Choosing the right spray equipment for panel furniture production

Elmbridge UK, single source suppliers of professional spray finishing equipment and coatings, examines what manufacturers should be looking for when upgrading their finishing process.

Customers expect consistent, high-quality finishes on surfaces where every imperfection is visible. At the same time, workshops face mounting pressure to increase production capacity, reduce waste and control costs. In this environment, your finishing process is no longer just a final production step. It reflects your quality standards and a significant factor in your commercial performance and brand. Getting the right spray equipment matters more than ever.

Is your current setup holding you back?

Many panel furniture manufacturers may still be running spray equipment that was specified for a different time. Your equipment could be set up for coatings and production volumes the business has since outgrown. Modern finishing materials bring different demands. Water-based lacquers, high-solids coatings and two-pack systems all have specific viscosity and atomisation requirements that existing equipment may not handle at its best. When the match between coating and equipment is not right, the consequences can be costly. Uneven coverage, excessive

overspray, slow colour changes and finish failures can lead to rework that damages both margin and reputation. A review of your equipment could be the best investment you make this year.

New technology has changed the game Air-assisted airless (AAA) has become the technology of choice for many panel furniture finishing setups. It combines the speed and output of conventional airless spraying with the finish quality of compressed air atomisation, using significantly less coating in the process. For manufacturers who have made the switch from conventional airless, significant material savings are not uncommon. For panel substrates in particular, this level of control matters

enormously. Flat, high-visibility surfaces demand a consistent, repeatable finish, and delivering that quality across high volumes of flat panel work is exactly what airassisted airless technology is engineered to do.

Not every workshop is manufacturing the same product or has the same finishing demands. The right equipment choice depends on the production volume, coating type and the finish standard required. If upgrading your finishing setup is on the agenda, these three systems are a good place to start.

The Wagner Cobra 40:10 suits smaller operations or those stepping up from manual spraying. Using Wagner’s AirCoat technology, the Cobra delivers fine atomisation with the material savings associated with air-assisted airless systems. Its compact pump design supports single-gun and light multi-gun setups, offering more versatility than its size might suggest.

The Graco Merkur 45:1 is built for volume. Widely used in furniture and joinery applications, it handles water and solvent-based lacquers, primers and stains at high output rates, with an easy-flush system that keeps colour change time and solvent use to a minimum.

The DeVilbiss Advance HD Trans-Tech is the choice when finish quality is paramount. Trans-Tech atomisation delivers transfer efficiency of up to around 65%, meaning more coating reaches the surface rather than being lost to overspray. It can be used with pressure-feed systems and handles 2K, high-solids, waterborne and solvent-based coatings with equal precision.

Even the best equipment relies on the correct set up and operator technique. Factors such as pressure setting, spray distance, and gun movement all contributing to achieving a consistent finish.

More than an equipment supplier

Choosing the right equipment is only half of the equation. The coating product and the spray system are interdependent. It is here that Elmbridge stands apart

As a single source supplier of both spray equipment and coatings, their offer goes beyond what a conventional equipment supplier provides. Elmbridge works with Wagner, Graco and DeVilbiss on the equipment side and Sayerlack and Adler on the coatings side. That genuine cross-brand expertise shapes every conversation. Workshop environment, production requirements, and finish standards are all assessed before any recommendation is made.

Try before you buy

No brochure or showroom visit can replicate what happens in a customer’s workshop. At the customer’s own premises or at Elmbridge’s in-house spray finishing facility in Gloucester, demonstrations are carried out using actual substrates and coatings in real production conditions

Questions get answered with evidence, and buying confidence follows naturally. There is no obligation, only the assurance that any equipment recommendation is grounded in the customer’s specific production reality.

The single source

Upgrading your spray equipment is one of the most impactful changes a panel furniture manufacturer can make.

The right system reduces waste, improves finish consistency and removes a significant source of costly rework from the production process. From market leading spray equipment across Wagner, Graco and DeVilbiss, to professional coatings from Sayerlack, Adler and Elmbridge’s own Meranti range, everything needed to get the finish right is available from a single source. The team at Elmbridge is ready to help, whatever stage your finishing setup is at.

To discuss your requirements or arrange a demonstration, contact Elmbridge at sales@elmbridgeuk.com

A New Dimension in Surface Texture

Ureka appointed exclusive UK distributor for Wakol Adhesives

Ureka Global is proud to announce its appointment as the exclusive UK distributor for Wakol adhesives, strengthening its portfolio of high performance, safety-led bonding solutions for modern manufacturing.

The partnership will initially focus on the Wakol Intercoll® Water Based Adhesive range, engineered specifically for bonding applications across the mattress manufacturing, seating and upholstery industries. These sectors demand speed, consistency and operator safety, and Wakol’s technology has been developed with exactly those priorities in mind.

Bringing Hybrid Adhesive Technology to the UK Wakol’s water based hybrid adhesive systems represent a significant step forward from traditional water based and solvent based technologies. By eliminating solvents and significantly reducing chloroprene rubber (CR) content, Wakol adhesives help remove fire and explosion risks, lower harmful emissions and improve air quality on the factory floor. Selected products carry no GHS08 labelling and support compliance with REACH and VOC regulations. Hybrid adhesives are able to bond a wider range of substrates than traditional water based polychloroprene latex adhesives, including plastics, metal and wood.

This marks the first time this hybrid adhesive technology has been made available to UK manufacturers, offering a safer and more sustainable alternative without compromising performance.

Faster Production, Immediate Bonding

Designed for high throughput manufacturing environments, Wakol hybrid and drying adhesives deliver aggressive initial tack and rapid force build up, allowing instant bonding without airing or drying times. This enables true inline processing, faster production speeds, reduced work in progress and improved overall production flow.

A Strategic Partnership for UK Manufacturing

This appointment reinforces Ureka Global’s commitment to supplying innovative, high performance adhesive solutions that help UK manufacturers work faster, safer and smarter. By combining Wakol’s advanced adhesive technology with Ureka’s technical expertise and market support, the partnership provides UK customers with a compelling new option for foam bonding applications.

CASE STUDY

Weinig System Plus transforms Robbins Timber’s milling operations

Robbins Timber Ltd, based in Bristol, has been a specialist supplier of hardwood and softwood timber since 1881.

Renowned for precision machining and specialist timber preparation, the company serves sectors ranging from marine and construction to restoration projects. Around 20 percent of its business supports boat building, particularly teak decking and it has contributed to high-profile projects such as Bristol Old Vic and the SS Great Britain.

The business was acquired by the Bagnall family in the mid-1980s and is now led by Ben Bagnall. As Managing Director, he has guided the company through a period of modernisation while maintaining its family-run ethos and a focus on high-value, complex timber projects.

Ben explained, “As a specialist timber company, our focus is on precision machining and high-quality materials, which means investing in technology that allows us to meet exacting standards every time.”

Robbins Timber had long relied on Weinig machines and were very satisfied with their performance over the years. However, with increasing demand for complex, highprecision components, it became clear that the milling process and cutter production needed modernisation.

Ben recognised that upgrading to a more advanced, integrated system would streamline workflow, reduce pressure on the workshop floor, and ensure the business could continue to meet its exacting standards while preparing for future growth and contacted the Weinig UK sales team directly.

Following an extensive consultation with Area Sales Manager Antony Jempson, Robbins Timber decided to invest in the Weinig SYSTEM PLUS solution, a complete package comprising the SOLID PROFILE P1500 moulder, SOLID GRIND 1000P CNC tool grinder, SOLID PRESET 1000 measuring system and Weinig PROFILE MASTER software.

The system enabled Robbins Timber to move from manual cutter production to a fully digital CNC workflow with hightolerance measuring systems and PowerLock (HSK) tooling, allowing faster, more precise tool changes.

Ben highlighted the positive impact of the investment on operations, explaining, “The new system takes a lot of pressure off the team. Job lists can be managed more efficiently, and everything integrates seamlessly with our software. By moving the software element into the office, our sales team has full visibility, which is already helping us optimise orders and sell more effectively.”

Initial discussions with Weinig to modernise Robbins’ milling processes began in December 2024, followed by a visit to the Weinig UK headquarters in Abingdon to see the PLUS in action.

The team explored how automation and workflow enhancements could streamline production and improve efficiency. By January 2025, Robbins Timber had taken the first step towards modernisation by ordering the SOLID PRESET 1000 measuring stand and software. This key addition transformed tool preparation and laid the groundwork for the arrival of the new P1500 moulder.

Over the following months, Robbins Timber worked closely with Weinig UK to implement the full including the SOLID PROFILE P1500 moulder with eight spindles, alongside the SOLID GRIND 1000P CNC tool grinder with PROFILE MASTER software.

Weinig engineers carried out the on-site preparations, including the removal of a legacy moulder and the expansion of the tool room to accommodate the new CNC grinder.

Throughout the summer, the Robbins team travelled to Weinig UK for hands-on training in CAD-based cutter design within the PROFILE MASTER software. This intensive programme equipped staff to produce cutters to micronlevel precision, ensuring the P1500 moulder could deliver the highest standards of accuracy, repeatability and finish from day one.

Ben added, “Setup is now dramatically faster. Previously, everything had to be configured from scratch. The team can now simply take the prepared block and install it. Once in place, the system operates reliably and consistently. It is extremely impressive.”

The investment has helped create one of the most advanced timber milling facilities in the Southwest. Production gradually transitioned from the old moulder while maintaining stock levels, supported throughout by Weinig engineers.

The impact of the investment on Robbins Timber has been immediate. Improved accuracy, repeatability, and efficiency now allow the mill to produce high-quality components consistently, meeting exacting standards with every run. Ben explained, “The drawings are now more accurate, the cutters are manufactured with precision, and the machine setup is consistently exact. This ensures that the finished product meets the highest of standards and we achieve that quality much more quickly. The repeatability is a major advantage, allowing us to run the same programme repeatedly with consistent, reliable results every time.”

For Robbins Timber, the upgrade is not only about technology but also about positioning the business for future growth. The combination of precision machining, digital cutter design, and CNC production enables the company to tackle multiple technically complex, high-value projects more efficiently.

“This upgrade has been truly transformative for Robbins Timber,” said Ben. “By working closely with Weinig and building on our long-standing partnership, we are stronger, more capable, and well positioned to continue delivering exceptional results for many years to come.”

Manufacturers interested in seeing the Weinig SYSTEM PLUS in action can visit the Weinig UK showroom in Abingdon, where the full capabilities of the P1500 moulder and associated digital CNC production systems can be demonstrated.

CONNECTED

ON SITE IN SECONDS

• Shorter assembly time with connectors that are pre-installed in the workshop

• No edge processing necessary – one less production step

• High clamping force for stable furniture

The new Makita combi drill delivers power that hits harder

Makita’s new HP003GZ01 40VMax XGT® Brushless Combi Drill combines robust performance, intelligent technology and rugged durability to deliver professional results. Powered by Makita’s advanced 40VMax XGT® Li-Ion battery platform, this high-torque combi drill is designed for demanding screwdriving and drilling applications.

The new HP003GZ01 combines power with smart control features, and delivers up to 180Nm torque, making it the most powerful Combi Drill in the Makita range. With torque setting stages of 41/30/25 newton metres and enhanced clutch control, users enjoy greater accuracy, and the HP003G XGT 40v Combi features a versatile three-speed gearbox that adapts effortlessly to demanding drilling and fastening tasks across various materials and applications. Furthermore, the tool includes a new medium mode, twice as high operating speed as that in the low mode which provides the ideal balance of torque and speed for heavy duty tasks such as driving longer screws.

For added safety, the drill includes active feedback sensing technology (AFT) that immediately stops the engine if the rotation suddenly cuts out, which also improves the tool’s longevity, as well as an electric brake for maximum productivity and increased operator protection. Additionally, it has a soft start and reversing function that helps to reduce kick back. It also includes a built-in LED light to illuminate dark areas, a conveniently placed reversing switch and a 13mm keyless chuck for easy bit changes without the need for additional tools.

Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita commented: “Our HP003GZ01 combi drill is a great addition to any professional’s toolkit. Compatible with Makita’s 40VMax batteries, the drill offers longer run time whilst delivering robust performance and precise control.”

Customer centric approach is the key focus for Merinolam

Panel & Joinery Production spoke with Andy Sutton, Chief Operations Director, and Gail Alcock, Head of Sales at Merinolam UK, to understand how the business is positioning itself within the UK’s competitive decorative surfaces market.

Since entering the UK market six years ago, Merinolam has focused on delivering a streamlined, customer-led proposition built around premium high-pressure laminates (HPL), compact laminate and melamine-faced chipboard (MFC). The company’s approach centres on providing a carefully curated range that reflects the most in-demand décors and finishes for both commercial and residential applications, while ensuring consistent availability - an area where the market has struggled since 2024 following changes in laminate distribution.

A key part of this strategy has been Merinolam’s exclusive distribution partnership with James Latham. By aligning product development with Latham’s established service infrastructure, the business has been able to create a dependable supply model, with all core ranges stocked across 12 depots nationwide. This addresses a long-standing challenge in the sector, where direct-to-market supply from European manufacturers can often result in inconsistent availability and extended lead times. For fabricators and joinery manufacturers, the ability to access in stock material quickly and reliably has effectively reset expectations around service levels.

Merinolam’s UK strategy has been shaped by Andy and Gail, who have decades of industry experience between them, combined with detailed market research. With over 25 years of sector knowledge informing decision-making, the company has deliberately returned to what it sees as proven best practice: offering the right products, in the right

finishes, backed by strong availability and technical support. This customer-centric approach is not simply a slogan but underpins product selection, stock profiling and ongoing range development.

The business itself forms part of the wider Merino Group, a family-owned manufacturer established in 1965. Originally focused on plywood production, the Group has grown into one of the world’s largest producers of decorative laminates and compact surfaces, exporting to more than 80 countries.

Significant investment in manufacturing technology and research and development has enabled the Group to expand into a range of sectors, including interior architectural products and beyond. Merinolam represents the premium surface solutions arm of this global operation, bringing those capabilities directly to the UK market.

From a product perspective, Merinolam’s offering is designed with fabrication and performance in mind. The range is widely used in applications such as washroom cubicles, fire doors, interior wall panelling and high-traffic environments across healthcare, education, retail and hospitality.

Durability, consistency of finish and ease of machining are all central to the specification, ensuring materials perform reliably throughout their lifecycle.

One of the defining characteristics of the range is its consistency across product types. Matching décors are available in HPL, compact and MFC, allowing manufacturers and designers to achieve a cohesive finish across different applications within a project. This complementary approach simplifies specification and supports more efficient production processes within joinery workshops.

includes fire-retardant properties as standard, without additional cost, helping fabricators meet regulatory requirements more easily. Synchronised woodgrain textures offer a close visual and tactile replication of natural veneer, while being supplied in formats that are more practical for manufacturing. In addition, the company offers a suite of specialist laminates, including anti-fingerprint surfaces, electrostatic discharge (ESD) laminates, magnetic dry-wipe boards and solid colour-through options.

Sustainability is another area of focus, embedded within the wider Merino Group’s operations. The company highlights its progress in reducing carbon emissions, achieving water neutrality and increasing its reliance on renewable energy sources, including biomass, solar and biomethane. These environmental credentials are increasingly relevant to UK specifiers and manufacturers, particularly

Looking ahead, Merinolam’s priorities for 2026 centre on strengthening its presence within the UK market and deepening engagement with fabricators, designers and OEMs. Continued investment in décor development will see new textures and finishes introduced in line with evolving design trends, alongside targeted collections for specific sectors such as doors, washrooms and interior fit-outs.

The company also plans to build on its sustainability messaging, ensuring that environmental performance and lifecycle considerations are clearly communicated and supported by appropriate documentation, including Environmental Product Declarations. This reflects a broader shift within the woodworking and joinery sectors, where material selection is increasingly influenced by both design and environmental criteria.

At the core of Merinolam’s growth strategy remains its partnership-led model. By working closely with James Latham, the company is able to combine global manufacturing strength with local distribution expertise, technical support and market insight. This collaborative approach ensures that products are not only available but also supported by the knowledge and service levels required by modern joinery manufacturers.

As the UK market continues to demand higher standards in both product performance and supply reliability, Merinolam’s emphasis on availability, consistency and customer focus positions it as a strong contender within the decorative surfaces sector. The combination of heritage, innovation and a service-driven distribution model provides a solid platform for sustained growth in the years ahead.

COVER STORY

Titus launches online shop for small manufacturers

Cabinet hardware expert Titus has announced the launch of its new online shop, providing small furniture manufacturers with quick and convenient access to the company’s most popular high-quality hardware solutions. The shop features no minimum order requirements and rapid dispatch - typically within two working daysaddressing key challenges faced by smaller operations.

“Small manufacturers have always valued our innovative products but often struggle with traditional bulk ordering processes,” explains Phil Beddoe, UK Managing Director of Titus. “Our new online shop eliminates these barriers by offering convenient browsing, zero minimum order requirements, and fast delivery times. We’ve carefully selected our most versatile and popular products to ensure smaller manufacturers can efficiently access the hardware solutions they need to compete in today’s market.”

Streamlined operations for enhanced productivity

The online shop addresses the unique challenges faced by smaller manufacturers who often require flexibility without the burden of large minimum orders. Traditional wholesale purchasing can tie up significant capital in slow-moving inventory, while smaller batch requirements often get overlooked by larger suppliers. Titus’ new platform bridges this gap by providing immediate access to professional hardware solutions with the convenience of e-commerce ordering.

The shop’s carefully curated selection features approximately 60 products from Titus’ most sought-after ranges, ensuring that smaller manufacturers can access proven solutions without navigating an overwhelming product catalogue. This focused approach supports decision-making while guaranteeing the availability of essential components.

Comprehensive T-type hinge solutions

The innovative T-type range is central to the online offering, featuring unique 3Way snap-on mounting for exceptionally easy installation, even on large doors with multiple hinges. Available products include the popular T-type 100° hinges for standard applications and T-type 170° hinges for wideopening requirements, along with their matching mounting plates.

All T-type hinges deliver Titus’ renowned Confident Close action - a consumer-preferred soft-close mechanism characterised by late-start deceleration and quiet landing This consistent performance is achieved through Titus’ proprietary damping technology, positioned transversally in the hinge cup for intuitive adjustment and reliable operation. The high tolerance design accommodates drilling variations and accidental misalignments, ensuring reliable door operation even in challenging installation conditions.

The 3Way mounting system significantly reduces assembly time, particularly beneficial for smaller manufacturers where labour efficiency directly impacts profitability. The tool-free installation process minimises training requirements and reduces the likelihood of assembly errors.

Complete drawer system solutions

The Tekform Slimline drawer system offers complete drawer solutions along with individual components, including brackets, drawer bars, and drawer fronts. This modular approach allows manufacturers to customise their drawer specifications while maintaining the system’s sleek 14mm side panels that maximise interior drawer space without compromising structural integrity.

The system’s integrated soft-closing mechanism ensures smooth, controlled drawer operation while the precisionengineered runners deliver reliable performance over extended use cycles. The straightforward installation process and adjustment capabilities enable precise alignment, making it suitable for manufacturers with varying levels of assembly experience. The drawer system’s compatibility with various cabinet widths and depths provides flexibility for custom applications without requiring specialised components.

The modular design means smaller manufacturers can stock individual components as needed, reducing inventory investment while maintaining the ability to fulfil varied customer requirements. This flexibility is particularly valuable for businesses producing custom cabinetry where standard drawer sizes may not always suit specific project needs.

Advanced connector technologies

Cabinet connectivity is comprehensively covered through multiple connector systems, each engineered for specific applications and performance requirements. System 6.2 provides next-generation square-shaped connectors with enhanced stability and contemporary aesthetics, ideal for modern furniture designs where visual appeal is paramount.

System 5 offers a comprehensive range of cam and dowel fittings featuring Klix and Quickfit technologies for all cabinet applications, from panel-to-panel connections to back-to-back assemblies. These proven connectors ensure reliable joint construction while accommodating the drilling tolerances common in smaller-scale production.

The innovative Quickloc™ One-piece connectors from System 4 deliver streamlined installation by combining multiple connection functions in a single component. This reduces inventory requirements while simplifying assembly procedures, particularly valuable for manufacturers producing varied product lines.

The reliable Cam 5000 system ensures robust cabinet construction across all applications, featuring high loadbearing capacity and consistent clamping force for durable furniture assembly.

Essential cabinet hardware

Essential cabinet fittings complete the comprehensive offering, including push latches for handleless applications, joining plates for secure panel connections, and versatile shelf support systems. These components provide smaller manufacturers with all the hardware essentials for professional cabinet construction without requiring separate supplier relationships.

Push latches enable clean, modern designs while ensuring reliable operation, while joining plates offer invisible connection solutions for seamless cabinet assembly. The shelf support systems accommodate adjustable and fixed shelving requirements across various load capacities.

Seamless ordering experience

The shop accepts all major credit and debit cards, with straightforward online ordering and transparent pricing. Real-time stock availability prevents ordering delays, while the rapid dispatch commitment ensures minimal disruption to production schedules. The carefully curated product selection, combined with detailed technical specifications and installation guidance, makes the shop an ideal resource for smaller manufacturers looking to incorporate premium hardware solutions into their furniture designs.

Your path to the future of panel & joinery production

2026 is a special year for Leitz Tooling. The company celebrates their 150 year anniversary with a series of product developments, focused on furniture and panel production, that pass on cost savings to their customers. The company’s new tooling designs and continued product development has led to Leitz winning two awards so far this year: The Design & Build Awards and The Corporate LiveWire awards.

Material costs have increased dramatically over the last few years. In addition to raw materials, tooling costs have increased significantly after tungsten carbide, tool steel and diamond cutting materials reach recent highs. It’s never been more important to prioritise efficiency and sustainable tooling, which is why Leitz has re-developed its tooling for increased tool life and cost-effectiveness.

Ben Mitchell, Marketing Manager at Leitz comments on the new product designs: “These innovations are customer led, we always listen to feedback from the market and we are working to make sure we are ahead of changing demand. We are constantly hearing about growing costs, so we’ve looked at how we can make our tooling work harder and faster to compensate”.

Leitz Diamster WhisperCut milling cutter heads are staples of panel processing and edgebanding that are used by some of the largest furniture and fire door manufacturers across the UK. Leitz has been redesigning its PLUS version

ahead of the Holz Handwerk show in Nurenburg, to become more economical than ever. Adding a 0.5mm resharpening area onto every diamond tip, Leitz have increased tool life as now cutters can be sharpened an additional 1-2 times, making them suitable for up to 10 sharpens per head Combined with the lightweight body and noise reduction, this makes the Diamaster WhisperCut significantly more sustainable than other milling heads on the market as its requires less power, creates less noise and lasts much longer. Passing on these cost savings straight back to manufacturers.

Leitz have also released the new ProfilCut Q diamond for edge finishing. Based on the industry leading ProfilCut Q system, this new diamond cutter head is designed for high volume profiling in edgebanding applications. Saving 2-3 hours of adjustment time over its life compared to tipped solutions, it uses a constant diameter and constant profile system, eliminating time consuming set ups, even after sharpening. Knives are sharpened by Leitz in the tool body for maximum concentricity, allowing for up to a 40% reduction costs per linear running meter based on downtime reduction, long tool life and economical sharpening. The reliability of this system also means profile integrity is the same on the first meter and the thousandth, eliminating the need for rework and wasted material.

For CNC routing operations, Leitz have released the new Diamaster PRO EdgeExpert. Combining the tried and tested designs of the Diamaster PRO router cutters with their economical Edge Expert technology, this router offers tear free finishes for panel materials with difficult top layers. With feed rates of up to 15 m/min-1, this router utilises shear cut and axis angles for tear free top layers, reducing the cutting pressure in the middle layer. This translates to reliably high quality finishes across different coated and laminated panel materials, meaning far less material wastage and reworking. The Diamaster PRO EdgeExpert is suitable for 5 sharpens, combining high quality finishes with tool-economy.

Previously, users lacking a scoring unit often reached their limits when attempting to size coated panels accurately and without tear out. However, the new FineCut circular saw blade from Leitz brings a new dimension to panel processing; thanks to its innovative tooth geometry, it produces chip-free cutting edges even in difficult to machine materials. This entirely eliminates the need for scoring as the specialised geometry creates finish quality cuts on the bottom and top layer of panels. When combined with highquality diamond cutting material, it ensures maximum process reliability and outstanding edge quality alongside an impressively long tool life. Suitable for 3 sharpens, this new

saw blade offers a sustainable and economical alternative to traditional sawing setups.

Leitz Tooling will be showcasing these new innovations for furniture manufacturing and panel production at the Professional Woodworking Expo on the 23rd-25th June 2026. Visit the Leitz Tooling stand or contact Leitz Tooling today to learn how these innovative solutions can improve your production, make you more efficient and keep rising costs at bay.

Leitz Tooling & BE-ST Celebrate Successful Event

On the 12th March 2026, Leitz Tooling and BE-ST joined forces to host an industry event at the BE-ST innovation campus on how we can use homegrown mass timber for the built environment.

This exciting event brought together industry leaders and the supply chain including representatives from sawmills, timber merchants, joineries, machinery, adhesives, paint companies and more.

The event was a success and included a tour of the BE-ST innovation campus and retrofit centre as BE-ST showcased their innovative CLT manufacturing process, with a focus on using home grown timber. To showcase the importance and usage of Scottish CLT for UK joinery and construction applications, Leitz & The Joinery Network demonstrated turning this engineered wood product into high-performance timber windows and doors. The LIGNUM demonstration took place in collaboration with Felder, who supplied their Profil X-Motion spindle moulder for the demonstrations.

The event was a great place to kickstart the discussion around homegrown timber, enabling direct conversations with decision makers in forestry and sawmills, discussing the best species to plant for sustainably managed forests that fulfil local demand. The knock on effect of this could be massive, leading to a more reliable supply chain, reduced carbon footprint for wood products and even the potential of lower materials costs

Leitz Tooling are excited to be partnering with BE-ST as they strive together for a more sustainable future that supports homegrown timber for the built environment, be it for solid wood construction or build components such as joinery and timber windows or doors.

CASE STUDY

Wedd Joinery streamlines programming with HOMAG’s smartWOP

For over 100 years, Cambridge-based Wedd Joinery has been creating bespoke, specialist joinery of the highest quality. Established in 1925 and still proudly family-owned, the company combines centuries of craftsmanship with constant investment in technology and people. With a 35,000 sq. ft. workshop and a team backed by over 500 years of combined experience, Wedd Joinery delivers complex, high-end projects entirely in-house – from design through to manufacture and finishing.

The need for smoother integration

Until recently, Wedd Joinery’s programming relied on HOMAG’s woodWOP software alongside another third-party platform. While both solutions were strong in their own right, integration between the two created friction. “We were doing most of our programming with HOMAG’s woodWOP, which is a great piece of software,” explains Simon Lock, Commercial Director at Wedd Joinery. “However, we were also using what is essentially a competitor’s version of smartWOP, and while this was decent enough, it didn’t always integrate so well with woodWOP and our production as a whole. So we liked the idea of replacing this with another HOMAG software and bringing it all under one roof.”

Simon and his team first discovered smartWOP at HOMAG Treff 2024 in Germany. “We went out there looking at new machines, but ended up spending a lot of time with the software team. Seeing smartWOP in action, we took an immediate liking to it – it was clearly the solution we were looking for.”

Why HOMAG?

Wedd Joinery has been a loyal HOMAG customer for over 20 years, operating multiple HOMAG machines across its workshop. “As far as we’re concerned, the more HOMAG machinery and software we use, the better,” says Simon. “We’ve built a strong relationship with the UK team, and everything from sales to servicing has always been top-notch.”

Fast, intuitive implementation

One of smartWOP’s standout qualities was how quickly it could be introduced into Wedd’s operation. “It was very easy to implement – we actually opted to install it ourselves, and had no problems,” Simon recalls. “Then we had two days of training with HOMAG. Our two operators using it are very adept with woodWOP and are good programmers in general, so they took to smartWOP straight away. But even an inexperienced programmer, I think, would have no difficulties using this software – it’s that intuitive.”

Seamless programming

Since switching to smartWOP, Wedd Joinery has eliminated the integration headaches of its previous setup. “Now we’re using two pieces of HOMAG software together, things are

much smoother,” says Simon. “With our previous software, we struggled whenever we had to do special cut outs, angled units or anything out of the ordinary. Now we can take a panel straight out of smartWOP and put it into woodWOP – a seamless process.”

An easy decision

For Simon and the team, investing in smartWOP was an obvious step forward. “This was a simple one for us,” he reflects. “We were already using software that did similar things, but smartWOP does it better, and it integrates perfectly with our existing HOMAG setup. Given our long-standing relationship with HOMAG, and how impressed we were seeing smartWOP in action, the decision was easy. We couldn’t be happier with how it’s playing out.

Lamello & Estetiko: Driving efficiency at scale

Estetiko’s recent expansion into a new 20,000 sq ft London facility marks a decisive step forward for a business built on precision, design-led manufacturing and long-term client value. The company has doubled its footprint to support growing demand and increase production efficiency, with Lamello’s connectors playing a central role in how Estetiko now designs, machines and assembles its furniture at scale. The strategy is clear: invest in the right technology, partner with the right suppliers, and standardise processes that deliver consistent, high-end results.

For Branko Georgiev, Head of Operations at Estetiko, the move was as much about future-proofing as it was about immediate gains. “We needed the space to grow, but more importantly we needed the right setup to avoid inefficiencies,” he explains. That mindset drove the transition from an older Felder CNC to a new 4-axis Biesse CNC, supported by upgraded edgebanding and an automated finishing system, all aligned with a fully integrated Lamello workflow.

The new Biesse Rover Multi Up CNC represents a step change in production capability. Moving from a standalone system to a fully automated nesting line has reduced labour requirements while increasing output. “With the old setup, you needed two operators. Now one person can handle loading, labelling, cutting, drilling and offloading. It’s all about efficiency,” says Branko. While the machine delivers speed and capacity,

we’ve always been happy with the connectors,” Branko says. “Before that, I used other systems, but Lamello is simply a different level – stronger, more flexible and far more suited to what we do.” As the company invested in nesting technology, the decision followed naturally. “If you have a nesting machine, you should be using nesting connectors. Lamello was the best solution.”

Estetiko’s relationship with Lamello began with the handheld

Strength and versatility are key advantages. Unlike alternative connectors that remove more material and weaken panels, Lamello maintains structural integrity while offering flexibility across different applications. “You’re not limited,” Branko explains. “Different thicknesses, different lengths, screw or direct fixing – it covers everything and keeps furniture strong.”

While Lamello machining can take slightly longer per fixing, Branko emphasises that focusing on machining time alone misses the bigger picture. “You might spend a few extra seconds per fixing on the CNC, but you make that back and more during assembly. That’s where the real efficiency is.” With pre-aligned holes and simple installation, assembly becomes fast and repeatable. “You can build a wardrobe in ten minutes with Lamello instead of spending ten minutes just figuring out the drawings.”

This has a direct impact on productivity and profitability. “Faster installs mean more jobs completed each week. We pay installers by job, so quicker installs benefit everyone,” he adds.

Cost also becomes a strength at scale. “At smaller volumes, Lamello might be a few pence more,” Branko explains. “But when you’re using 2,000 to 5,000 a month, the price drops. Multiply that by thousands and you’re saving hundreds while getting a better product.”

This efficiency is reinforced by Estetiko’s use of Polyboard software, which integrates design and manufacturing. Designs can be created in under two minutes, with automatic fixing placement and production-ready drawings. “We’ve reworked the business so we spend less time designing and more time producing,” says Branko. With Lamello fully integrated, what is designed is exactly what is manufactured.

Aesthetics remain key, particularly in high-end environments. Lamello’s concealed connectors support clean designs, enhanced by Estetiko’s investment in finishing technology, including what Branko describes as the first self-teaching spray robot of its kind in the UK. “Preparation is key. We prime and paint everything, including the Lamello fixings, to achieve a perfect finish,” he explains.

Looking ahead, Estetiko is focused on scaling production through automation, with Lamello embedded in every product. Currently operating at around 30% capacity, the facility has significant room to grow. “We can increase output by 270% with what we have, and even more with additional machines. Lamello is key to that because it’s used in everything we make.”

For Branko, the long-term value of Lamello extends beyond efficiency. It enables flexibility, durability and repeat business. “We’ve had clients ask us to dismantle furniture and reinstall it in new locations multiple times. You can do that with Lamello and keep the same strength. You can’t do that with screws. That’s real value.”

As Estetiko continues to grow, its approach remains focused on delivering high-quality, efficient and future-proofed solutions. “You can make furniture without Lamello,” Branko concludes, “but you have to ask if you’re using the right product for the value you want to deliver. For us, it’s simple. Lamello saves us time, saves us money and gives our clients a better product.”

When systems reach their limits

As workshops expand their machinery and increase production capacity, dust extraction systems are often pushed beyond their original design limits. What once functioned effectively for a small number of machines can begin to underperform when multiple processes run simultaneously. The result is typically a gradual but noticeable decline in air quality, faster accumulation of dust on surfaces, and longer cleaning times. These issues become especially evident in larger training facilities and high-demand production environments, where consistent performance is critical throughout the working day.

A recent project completed by AL-KO Extraction Technology at Landesberufsschule Kuchl provides a clear example of how extraction requirements evolve as workshop scale increases. The school is one of Austria’s leading training centres for carpentry and wood technology, accommodating hundreds of students each year. Its workshops operate at a level far beyond that of a typical joinery shop, with numerous machines running concurrently across extensive floor space. This creates continuous and substantial demand on extraction systems.

As the workshop expanded its machinery range, the existing decentralised extraction system became insufficient and began to struggle under compounded loads. Rather than continuing to modify an increasingly strained setup, a new stationary extraction system from AL-KO was installed to meet the workshop’s full operational requirements

The new system reflects a significant step-up in scale and capability. It is engineered for continuous operation under high simultaneous demand, incorporating two 37 kW fans

Each fan is controlled via a frequency converter, allowing airflow to adjust dynamically in response to real-time demand. This ensures stable extraction performance, even as machine usage fluctuates throughout the day.

In terms of output, the system delivers a total airflow of 45,000 m³/h at a negative pressure of 4,800 Pa. These figures highlight the difference between industrial-scale extraction and smaller workshop systems. In environments where multiple machines operate at once, maintaining consistent airflow across all connection points is essential to prevent performance drop-off under peak load.

Filtration capacity is equally critical, particularly when dealing with fine dust. The Kuchl installation includes a total filter area of 300 m², using 192 filter hoses rated to filter class M. This enables the system to capture not only larger waste such as chips and shavings but also the fine airborne dust that can remain suspended, spread throughout the workshop, and settle on machinery and materials if not effectively controlled.

To maintain efficiency over time, the system incorporates 24 solenoid valves for automatic filter cleaning. This reduces the need for manual intervention while ensuring filters continue to operate at optimal performance levels.

Technical specifications only matter if they translate into real improvements on the workshop floor. In this case, the results were clear: improved air quality, reduced dust accumulation and cleaner machinery. In a training environment, this supports not only safety and maintenance but also the quality of the learning experience, reinforcing modern standards of woodworking practice.

While the Kuchl project demonstrates what is required at the upper end of workshop demand, not every operation needs a central extraction system of this scale. Many UK furniture manufacturers and smaller production environments operate with fewer machines, more compact layouts, or limited external space. In these situations, a large centralised system may not be practical.

For smaller or space-constrained workshops, compact indoor extraction systems can provide a more suitable solution. The AL-KO Power Unit range, designed for indoor installation, offers a plugand-play approach with high-performance filtration and built-in safety compliance. This allows systems to operate indoors without additional regulatory measures, simplifying installation while maintaining performance.

For mid-scale operations - which typically involve multiple machines, more complex ducting, and higher airborne dust loads - extraction design needs to be a more strategic consideration that may see extraction upgraded in a practical, staged way, allowing capacity to keep pace with increasing production without the need for immediate large-scale infrastructure changes.

As the exclusive UK distributor for AL-KO Extraction Technology, TM Machinery works closely with woodworking businesses to match these needs to real-world workshop requirements. This includes compact indoor units through to large centralised systems for highdemand environments.

Crucially, this approach focuses not just on supplying equipment, but on ensuring that extraction performance remains consistent as workshops grow and evolve.

Ultimately, dust extraction plays a central role in overall workshop performance. While it may operate in the background, its impact is immediate and measurable, influencing air quality, machine reliability, and day-to-day efficiency. With the right system in place and the right guidance in selecting and scaling it, workshops can maintain consistent performance as they grow, rather than allowing extraction to become a limiting factor.

dp-lite: a lightweight solution for modern manufacturing

At Decorative Panels Lamination, we offer a wide range of substrate solutions to support diverse manufacturing requirements. Alongside these, dp-lite has been a trusted part of our specialist offering for over 20 years, designed for applications where reducing weight is a key consideration.

Used across sectors including furniture, mobile leisure, exhibition, marine, commercial, and architectural environments, dp-lite is a lightweight, high-performance sandwich board that enables weight savings without compromising structural performance. By reducing overall panel weight, dp-lite supports easier handling, improved transport efficiency, and more considered material usage, making it a practical choice for manufacturers balancing performance, efficiency, and sustainability

Reducing weight without compromising performance

One of the most significant advantages of dp-lite is its ability to achieve up to 60% weight reduction compared to traditional chipboard. This reduction can contribute to lower material usage, improved handling during production, and greater efficiency in transportation and installation.

For manufacturers working across furniture, leisure, or display sectors, the ability to reduce weight without sacrificing integrity is becoming increasingly important.

Strength through innovative core design

At the core of dp-lite is a honeycomb structure that provides a strong strength-to-weight ratio. This design enables the board to deliver durability while maintaining a lightweight profile, making it particularly suited to applications where both performance and weight are critical considerations.

This includes use in mobile leisure environments, marine settings, and architectural installations where structural reliability must be balanced with ease of handling.

Efficiency in processing

dp-lite has been developed with onward processing in mind. It offers flexibility in cutting, drilling, and shaping, helping to streamline manufacturing workflows. Consistent performance during post-processing also supports highquality finishing, whether for volume production or bespoke applications.

Supporting sustainable manufacturing

With a reduced requirement for wood-based raw materials, dp-lite contributes to a lower environmental impact when compared with more traditional substrates. This aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainability within the panel processing and joinery industries, where material efficiency and responsible sourcing are becoming key considerations.

A versatile substrate across multiple sectors

The versatility of dp-lite allows it to be applied across a broad spectrum of uses:

Furniture manufacturing, where lightweight construction can improve usability and transport. Mobile leisure, including caravans and recreational vehicles, where weight savings are critical. Exhibition and display, where ease of handling and installation is essential. Marine applications, where performance must be maintained in challenging conditions. Commercial and architectural interiors, where a balance of strength, weight, and finish is required.

Meeting the needs of a changing industry

As manufacturers focus on improving efficiency, reducing environmental impact, and optimising performance, lightweight substrates such as dp-lite remain a practical choice. Combining reduced weight with the structural performance required across a range of applications, it fits seamlessly into modern panel processing and joinery environments.

Backed by Decorative Panels Lamination’s experience, dp-lite continues to support customers in selecting the right substrate, balancing performance, usability, and efficiency from specification through to end use.

Hoffmann

Fire door production - all round safety

Fire doors are generally “measured and certified” in terms of FD30, FD60, FD90 and FD120.

This indicates the length of time that the door can maintain its integrity when heat is applied.

In the UK, the minimum resistance level for your fire door should be 30 minutes, which is FD30.

This allows sufficient time for someone to vacate a building in the event of fire and for emergency crews to attend.

When installing fire doors, all component parts are essential in ensuring the door maintains its integrity. Hoffmann Dovetail Keys are an integral part of many fire doors. They have been accredited with FD30 / FD60 fire safety ratings for securing the joints in vision panel cassettes. Hoffmann keys have also been successfully tested in composite fire door blanks and solid wood door frames.

To efficiently produce quality Fire Doors consistently, you also need “safe” machinery. This means maximum safety for the operator of the machine and safe, accurate and reliable machinery to manufacture quality fire doors. You can rely on a Safe Working environment with the Hoffmann MS-35, and MS-35-SF.

“We currently use the Hoffmann MS35-SF – missing as in line above? to produce glazing bead cassettes for our fire doors and glazed screens. Using the Hoffmann jointing system not only improves the process by simplifying it, but it has also increased the quality of the finished joint and the speed at which it is produced. Because the joints are so accurate and secure, there is no filling required on the joints before spraying, and the cassettes can be lacquered before fitting into the door. Production of the vision panels has increased by roughly 20% since having the Hoffmann machinery installed. We were so pleased with the quality of the Hoffmann system; we bought a second Hoffmann MS35SF machine as our business expanded”. Explained Branch manager, Mitch Johnson.

The Process:

The workpiece is laid on the table and positioned for cutting. The start button is pressed to begin the machine cycle and the profile is clamped. Both saw units’ cycle from above to make the mitre cuts. The parts remain clamped whilst the tables open to allow the router units to rout one or two dovetail slots for jointing with Hoffmann Keys, sizes W-1/2/3. The machine tables close, clamping is released and the finished workpiece is removed. The next machine cycle begins. The Machine Safety Guard closes automatically after starting the processing cycle and re-opens when complete. A clear vision panel retains the dust and scrap end, for better operator comfort. A fence stop system is also available for longer profiles up to 4000 mm. The

Hoffmann MS35SF can be used solely as a Double Mitre Saw, to cut to length profiles such as glazing beads, cornices add comma plinths etc. in wood, aluminium, and plastic at 45° angles.

As well as producing mitre joints, the Hoffmann MS35SF can also be integrated with a cross-cut saw to make the square cut when manufacturing 3-part door architraves.

Further special improvements were made to the Double Mitre Combination machine MS 35-SF. The Hoffmann design team developed technology which reduces the vibrations created on the saw blades. This resulted in an increase in the precision and accuracy of both mitre cuts so that no further work was required prior to joining. This uncompromising accuracy is particularly important when the finished surface joint is visible. This high-quality cut as well as high quality routing is achieved by almost vibration-

free running of the machine, the main casting of which is extremely robust and weighs about 700 kg. A chip breaker provides a chip-free cut. Another feature is the extremely low noise level which is immediately noticeable. The range has now evolved to include the MS40-SF. With a larger saw blade (400mm), the cutting width increases to 105mm, and a new waste ejector automatically removes off cuts at the front of the unit. Automatic router positioning is also available via NC axis and touch screen adjustment.

• Delays in dispatch due to coatings still curing?

• Is your spray shop slowing production?

• Are sprayed coatings taking too long to dry?

Pro-Cat LPG portable infrared systems are the answer.

The Pro-Cat kits can be used with solvent or water-based paints and coatings.

Drying time is cut to minutes allowing spraying and shipping on the same day.

Compact, economical and user friendly – can be used anywhere.

Protech Finishing Systems offer a full range of Infrared Electric, Natural/LPG gas drying boxes and tunnel ovens plus spray booths and finishing plants.

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CASE STUDY

How The CNC Workshop transformed production with HOMAG

The CNC Workshop, based in Hertfordshire with a head office in London, is known for offering all-in-one cutting, edging, CNC, and spray painting services. Whether it’s custom panels, cupboard doors, or detailed machining, the company supports cabinet makers, builders, and designers with precision craftsmanship and fast turnaround.

When traditional processes started to slow down production, it became clear that change was needed. “We used to do everything by hand, using a spindle drilling machine and other semi-manual methods,” says Aleksandr Zdanovs, Director at The CNC Workshop. “It was taking far too long to make a simple cabinet. We knew we needed a more automated process – not just for drilling, but for sawing and edging too.”

Discovering HOMAG

After exploring the market and seeing machines in action at other manufacturers, HOMAG quickly stood out “We explored our options, looking at both German and Italian brands. As part of our research we visited other businesses doing similar work. One of these companies was using a HOMAG drill, beam saw and edge bander. The quality was clear to us just from looking at the machines, and sure enough, the people using them gave a glowing recommendation.”

That recommendation led to The CNC Workshop investing in three key HOMAG machines – the DRILLTEQ V-200, EDGETEQ S-300, and SAWTEQ S-300 – transforming their workshop into a high-efficiency production environment.

While HOMAG initially suggested models that were more than sufficient for their needs, the company opted for higher-spec equipment.

“We knew we’d grow quite quickly with these machines,” says Aleksandr. “By going for the more advanced models, we’ve future-proofed the business. We won’t need to upgrade for at least six years.”

Custom configuration, seamless transition

The installation process was smooth and highly customised. “The machines were immediately tailored to our specific needs. For example, we cut and edge before spraying, so HOMAG configured the edge bander to create a paintable edge right from the start. That setup meant we could go into full-flow production the next day – no disruption at all.”

Training was equally impressive. “We had no one with prior experience operating this kind of equipment,” Aleksandr admits. “One of our sprayers volunteered to become the primary machine operator. After just two days of training with HOMAG, he was running it like a pro. That’s how intuitive the machines are.”

Efficiency gains and scalable growth

Since upgrading to HOMAG, The CNC Workshop has seen dramatic improvements to its operation as a whole. “The machines have transformed our business, particularly in terms of efficiency. For example, with cutting: “we could only cut one or two sheets on our previous saw – now we can cut five at a time. The accuracy is also phenomenal, and achieved so easily”.

“Basically, these machines are very fast and very powerful. And their capacity is immense. We could easily add another shift and the machines wouldn’t be overloaded. They are essentially built for mass production, and for a small business like ours, this represents a world of opportunity.

“That’s also why I would recommend anyone to go for the higher model than they think they need. Once these machines are in your workshop, your business will grow very quickly, to the extent you might regret not investing in the higher spec models!”

Reliable support with a personal touch

Beyond performance, HOMAG’s customer service also impressed. “We’ve been very happy with HOMAG’s service. Despite the size of the company, they still manage to provide a very personal service. Queries are answered promptly, and it’s

easy to raise a ticket. Any issues with the machines are generally resolved within hours.

“The machines themselves are loaded with sensors and builtin diagnostics; they display very clearly what the error is and how to solve it. So in most cases, we don’t even need to go to customer services; but if ever we do, we know there will be a friendly voice ready and willing to help.”

Aleksandr recalls one particular occasion when HOMAG went above and beyond. “We encountered a fault with one of the cables and it needed replacing. It was worth several hundred pounds. They sent one free of charge.”

More

growth, more HOMAG

Looking to the future, The CNC Workshop plans to expand further with another edge bander. “These machines are so capable, it’s like having seven machines in one. Doubling that capacity is an exciting prospect.”

With plans to grow and a solid production setup in place, The CNC Workshop is positioned for continued success. As Aleksandr sums it up: “Overall (in case it wasn’t obvious!) we’re very happy. These machines have brought us to a whole new level of quality and speed, and we’re very excited about where our business can go from here.”

Blum celebrated International Women’s Day 2026 with the announcement of a long-term charity partnership with One Loud Voice for Women.

Inspired by the non-profit organisation and its continued work, Blum will build on its existing relationship and donate to the charity through fundraising initiatives and sponsorship activities throughout the year.

One Loud Voice for Women is dedicated to elevating women by influencing and reshaping workplaces into modern cultures of equality, psychological safety and opportunity. Its purpose is to make the overall workplace better for women and bolster gender fairness from within organisations.

This International Women’s Day the global theme is ‘Give to Gain,’ which is a call to accelerate gender equality through generosity, reciprocity, and shared action. One Loud Voice for Women is part of the International Women’s Day giving ecosystem and is aligning its 2026 work with the ‘Give to Gain’ theme.

The focus encourages practical giving such as mentoring women, sponsoring careers, sharing skills, opening networks, providing flexible opportunities, and donating to women-focused initiatives.

Blum recognised the valuable work of One Loud Voice for Women last year, donating proceeds from the honey produced by its on-site bees on International Women’s Day as an initial show of support for this exceptional cause. This year, the company is strengthening that commitment through a dedicated charity partnership.

Influential in progressing the partnership, Ina Kacenaite, Head of HR & Development for Blum UK, comments: “We’re always proud to celebrate our talented team of women who continue to push boundaries and drive innovation in our industry. We resonate strongly with the message of One Loud Voice for Women and now feels like an important time to build upon our relationship.

“Blum UK cares about empowering women in business and wants to put in the effort to support true gender equality and diversity in the workplace. As a leading brand in our industry, we want to use our awareness and share of voice to support and progress this, playing our part in shaping the future.”

Anna Sofat, One Loud Voice Chair for One Loud Voice for Women, added: “We are delighted to welcome Blum as a One Loud Voice Thrive Community Industry Partner. Their commitment to championing women across their industry network makes them a valued partner in our mission to elevate and empower mid-career women.

As a respected name in the interiors and manufacturing sector, Blum’s support will help seed and shape the 1LV Thrive community, our new initiative focused on connection, confidence and leadership development at a pivotal stage in women’s careers. Together, we are laying the foundations for a community that will grow, support and elevate women across the industry.”

This summer, Blum will host an industry event for women at the Blum Experience Centre in Milton Keynes. Welcoming individuals from different companies and backgrounds, the theme will be around uniting women within the KBB industry, as well as professionals from other industries, to inspire, educate and drive action.

As a responsible employer, the business is proud to continue its commitment to supporting charitable initiatives which champion people, sustainability, and the wider industry.

HIMACS opens up its fabrication expertise with a new AI-Powered Knowledge Platform

LX Hausys has launched the HIMACS Fabrication Knowledge Base, a new AI-enabled digital platform designed to give Solid Surface professionals fast and practical access to official HIMACS fabrication guidance.

Replacing traditional PDF manuals with a fully searchable and mobile-friendly system, the platform brings together verified technical knowledge, step-by-step fabrication instructions and troubleshooting resources in one central hub. Openly accessible without login, the Knowledge Base allows fabricators, distributors, installers and designers to instantly access official HIMACS fabrication guidance from their desktop, tablet or smartphone, both in the workshop and on-site.

Developed in collaboration with HIMACS technical experts, the platform ensures that all information reflects the latest official fabrication standards. Users can quickly find practical tutorials, installation guidance, FAQs and troubleshooting advice, helping reduce errors, improve efficiency and support consistent quality across fabrication projects. Structured for AI-optimised search and chatbot assistance, the Knowledge Base also enables users to receive instant summaries and targeted answers to specific fabrication questions, making it easier than ever to access the right information when it is needed most.

The platform is designed to support the daily needs of the professional community, providing reliable step-by-step instructions and practical training resources while acting as a verified reference point for technical guidance.

The HIMACS Fabrication Knowledge Base is available in several languages and will continue to evolve with new content, updates and technical insights.

With this launch, HIMACS reinforces its commitment to supporting its professional network with digital tools that simplify processes, strengthen expertise and bring fabrication knowledge directly to the point of use.

At the same time, the new platform complements the HIMACS Quality Club programme, which remains a cornerstone of the brand’s professional ecosystem. The Quality Club is a network of highly qualified fabricators and installers who receive dedicated training in the fabrication, installation, repair and care of HIMACS Solid Surface. Members of this selected network are authorised to fabricate and install HIMACS according to the brand’s strict quality standards.

Importantly, only projects fabricated and installed by a certified HIMACS Quality Club member are eligible for the exclusive 15-year installation warranty, ensuring end customers benefit from the highest levels of workmanship and long-term reliability.

By opening access to essential fabrication knowledge while continuing to support its certified partner network, HIMACS aims to promote best practices across the industry and ensure consistently high-quality fabrication wherever the material is specified.

Mirka® Edge Guide

Simplifying Angled Sanding

The Edge Guide is a handy accessory designed to pair with 125 and 150 mm DEROS® II sanders, providing a user-friendly setup for precise edge sanding. With the Edge Guide mounted to your DEROS, you can easily guide the sander along the workpiece at an adjustable angle from 45° to 90°. For further information, please contact Customer Services on 01908 866100.

EVENT Professional Woodworking Expo

23-25 June

The UK woodworking industry is set to come together on a significantly larger and more connected stage in 2026 as Professional Woodworking Expo (PWE) returns to the NEC Birmingham from 23-25 June. Building on its strong foundations, the event is evolving into something far more ambitious, with a major new co-location alongside InstallerSHOW and the Painting & Decorating Show.

This new format marks an important step forward for the industry. Rather than operating in isolation, woodworking, installation and finishing professionals will now be brought together under one roof, reflecting the realities of modern construction and fit-out projects. From initial fabrication through to final decoration, these trades are increasingly interconnected, and PWE 2026 is designed to mirror that collaboration in a live environment.

For visitors, this means far more than just a woodworking exhibition. It becomes a multi-trade destination where joinery manufacturers, furniture makers, installers, contractors, painters and decorators can explore the full lifecycle of a project. For exhibitors, it opens the door to a much broader and more diverse audience, connecting woodworking brands with decision makers who may not traditionally attend a specialist show.

At the heart of Professional Woodworking Expo remains its strong focus on innovation, machinery and craftsmanship. Leading names such as Leitz, IMA Schelling, Mirka, Nederman, BOS Machines and Whitehill will be showcasing the latest advancements in cutting technology, extraction systems, sanding solutions and precision tooling. These brands represent the cutting edge of woodworking manufacturing, offering solutions that improve efficiency, accuracy and output in increasingly competitive markets.

Live demonstrations will once again be a major draw, giving visitors the opportunity to see machinery in action and understand how new technologies can be applied in realworld settings. Combined with expert-led seminars and technical sessions, the show provides a valuable platform for learning and skills development, helping businesses stay ahead of industry trends.

However, what truly sets the 2026 edition apart is the scale and diversity introduced through co-location. InstallerSHOW brings with it a wide range of exhibitors relevant to woodworking professionals involved in fit-out, kitchens, interiors and construction. Brands such as Egger, Hanson Plywood and BIFIS will be of particular interest to joinery manufacturers, while companies like Howdens, Wren Kitchens, Paula Rosa Manhattan and Cabinets Direct connect directly to the kitchen and furniture sectors.

In addition, fixings, tools and installation solutions will be heavily represented, with exhibitors including Fischer Fixings UK Ltd, SAMAC Fixings, GWR Fasteners, Monument Tools and Ox Tools. Adhesives and sealants specialists such as CT1, OB1, LOCTITE and XPRO Sealants & Adhesives will also be present, highlighting the importance of high-performance bonding solutions in both manufacturing and installation.

Tooling and equipment innovation continues with brands like Techtronic Industries (Milwaukee), Dart Tool Group and Toolstation, while suppliers such as MKM Building Supplies, Wickes and B&Q provide a broader view of the supply chain supporting the industry. Meanwhile, companies like Articad and Epicor bring digital solutions into the mix, showcasing software that supports design, manufacturing and business operations.

The Painting & Decorating Show adds yet another valuable dimension. Finishing is a critical stage in any woodworking or joinery project, and visitors will benefit from access to leading coatings and surface treatment brands. Exhibitors such as 3M, Barrettine, Tikkurila, Sherwin-Williams and Smith & Rodger’s will present the latest in paints, finishes and surface preparation technologies. Meanwhile, companies like Flex Power Tools, Okarno and Furniture Clinic offer solutions for sanding, repair and restoration, all of which are highly relevant to woodworking professionals focused on quality and durability.

This combination of exhibitors across three co-located events creates a uniquely comprehensive environment.

It allows visitors to move seamlessly from machinery and manufacturing solutions at PWE, to materials and installation systems at InstallerSHOW, and finally to finishing products and techniques at the Painting & Decorating Show. The result is a more holistic and efficient way to source products, discover innovations and build relationships.

The scale of the event reflects this ambition. With over 200 brands and more than 6,000 woodworking professionals expected to attend, PWE 2026 is set to be its most significant edition yet. When combined with the audiences of InstallerSHOW and the Painting & Decorating Show, the NEC Birmingham will become a true hub for the built environment, bringing together thousands of professionals from across multiple trades.

Ultimately, this new co-located format is about creating better connections. It recognises that the future of the industry lies in collaboration, integration and shared knowledge. By breaking down the traditional barriers between trades, Professional Woodworking Expo 2026 offers a more relevant, more valuable and more forward-thinking experience for everyone involved.

Registration is now open, and with so much to see across all three shows, early sign-up is strongly recommended. Visit the website and secure your place at the UK’s most connected event for woodworking, installation and finishing professionals

www.professionalwoodworkingexpo.com

EVENT

AMS host Midlands Woodworking Machinery Show

Advanced Machinery Services is opening its doors for a three-day woodworking exhibition in Leicestershire from 19th to 21st May. The Midlands Woodworking Machinery Show gives woodworking professionals from across the UK and Ireland a chance to see live demonstrations of the latest machinery.

The event will mark the launch of the first Leadermac showroom in the UK & Ireland.

Visitors can see the Leadermac HSK moulder running live, connected to a Doucet automatic handling system - showing how automation can help workshops save money, reduce labour, and work more efficiently.

Other Leadermac favourites will also be on display, including Grindermac for grinders, Compact and Smartmac for moulders, and setting stands.

New Wadkin Bursgreen machines will be ready to run From classical crosscuts, bandsaws, and panel saws to straight-line edgers, multi-rip saws, and resaws. All machines are ready to run, so visitors can see them in action, ask questions, and experience how they perform in real workshop conditions.

AMS’s training and service teams will be on hand throughout the show, ready to discuss any questions, challenges, or ideas about woodworking machines, maintenance, and training. Visitors will get expert advice tailored to their workshop needs.

The show is free to attend, but registration is required via the AMS website or calling or sending a WhatsApp to 116 259 8900.

Food and drinks will be provided, and parking is free on site. Don’t miss this chance to see woodworking machinery in action and speak directly with the experts.

Event Details:

19th – 21st May

9:00am – 4:00pm

Advanced Machinery Services, Skeffington Mill, A47 Uppingham Road, Skeffington, Leicestershire LE7 9YE

Spaces are limited - register now to secure your visit. www.advancedmachinery.co.uk

www.advancedmachinery.co.uk

20 May - 22 May

4 Jun - 5 Jun 15 April

Elmbridge - Spray Equipment Open Day UK

Clerkenwell Design Week EC1 London Interzum Forum Bergamo, Italy

23 Jun - 25 Jun

25 Aug - 28 Aug

20 Oct - 23 Oct

10 Nov - 13 Nov

24 Jan - 27 Jan

10 May - 14 May

9 Jun - 12 Jun 11 May - 14 May

Xylexpo - Composites Future 2026 Fieramilano Rho, Italy

Professional Woodworking Expo NEC, Birmingham, UK

International Woodworking Fair Georgia World Congress Centre, USA

SICAM Fiera Di Pordenone, Italy

Fimma + Maderalia Fiera Valencia, Spain

January Furniture Show NEC, Birmingham, UK

LIGNA 2027 Hannover, Germany

interzum Cologne, Germany

Consistent soft closing

Mount from any direction

An audible click confirms fit