“It’s a means of clarifying what’s on offer from the significant resource we have within Hardinge Inc,” explains UK managing director Mike Duignan. “For example, Hauser Hardinge is recognised as the leader in jig grinding, so the Hauser name will become associated with that process, whereas Kellenberger Hardinge will be the ‘go-to’ for general purpose universal and cylindrical machines, and so on for all the different group brands.”
In another development, the UK company will in future be responsible for machine sales and product support across Ireland, and similarly for sales of Hardinge Super Precision machines, with their capability for sustained high-tolerance machining.
There will be no change to the relationship between the UK company and the Okamoto brand, which Jones & Shipman Hardinge represents and supports exclusively in the UK and France.
“This has proven to be a very worthwhile partnership,” adds Duignan. “Okamoto machines cover a wide spectrum, but we’ve developed the market for their surface grinding machines, in particular, and have installed a number of machines at UK manufacturers. Customers have been impressed with the quality and robust build standards of the machines, and they complement the capability we offer from within the group.”
In a move that will ensure continuity, all key aftersales, applications, sales and support employees have made the move from Leicester to the new facility, where plans are well advanced for a new demonstration area.
An applications engineering facility has also been established, supported by an in-house workshop.Larger and bespoke projects will be supported by Hardinge grinding experts from across the European operations.
