Amada celebrates best year ever; invests to push forward

Helping to underpin this performance, the EuroBlech 2012 exhibition in Hanover last year saw the launch of no fewer than 11 global products. Among the new product introductions were: the FLW series of robotic fibre laser welding systems, which are fully programmable off-line; the FLC3015 AJ linear drive fibre laser cutting system; and the latest addition to Amada's punch/laser combination machines range, the ACIES 2515T. Amada also launched the latest expansion of its press brake range, the high speed, high accuracy EG series, with state-of-the-art dual ac servo-electric drive ram system, touch-screen control and software systems. The first UK installations of these solutions will take place during the second quarter of 2013. The company is investing to build on this performance, adding to its apprenticeship tally, so that the company now has 12 engineering apprentices. Indeed, company apprentice Tom Preen won the Worcestershire Apprentice of the Year award 2012, while Amada UK became Worcestershire Employer of the Year. This year will see a £5 million investment in the redevelopment of the UK customer facilities. Started in December 2012, when complete the project will see the existing 'Machine Tool Plaza' updated to become a fully interactive Technical Centre. Temporarily, the showroom has been relocated to an adjacent building, although Amada still offers 1,200 sq m of machinery space for daily demonstrations. This, alongside the company's network of Technical Centres in Europe, means it will be business as usual throughout 2013, says the company. This redevelopment will see an expanded solutions showroom, enhanced meeting areas and interactive facilities for both software and tooling. Visitors will soon be able to enjoy the very latest in sheet metal technology within a welcoming and comfortable environment that is conducive to knowledge-sharing, says Amada. What's more, the renovated facility will be eco-friendly, boasting minimal carbon footprint, due to the installation of the latest sustainable technology in lighting, heating and insulation. "Despite what can only be described as resounding success in 2012, the ethos here is to keep pushing forwards," says Amada UK's managing director, Alan Parrott. "This investment by Amada Group in the refurbishment of our UK facilities is a clear message that we are putting our customers first. Coming to an environment befitting of the technology and expertise on offer is of prime importance. We want to make every visit to Amada UK one to remember."