Versatility is the key to Andave shopfitting’s success. This Melbourne based company produces an amazing variety of components. Everything from shop fitouts, kitchens, bathrooms, vanities and wardrobes through to entertainment units, wall units and bars are produced on their new SCM machining centre.
David Byrnes, owner and director of Andave, started out 12 years ago with 2 guys using a range of small, traditional machines. The original panel saw, from the SCM group, was fitted with a 4’ sliding table. Designed for small, space limited workshops this was the ideal starting place for the company, however David soon realised that his growth plans required an investment in machinery.
Today the workshop has grown to include high production edgebanders, CNC controlled panel saws and a CNC machining centre.
With such a varied range of work, and the business expanding rapidly, it was important to David that the CNC machine be capable of all types of work. Rarely does the company get a production run, most of the work is one off designs requiring intricate machining.
The purchase of a new SCM machining centre was finalised after exhaustive research by the company, with installation taking place in July 2004.
So after two years what changes have Andave experienced? The most obvious is the faster machining times - the company is moving to a newly purchased factory due to the increased production and expansion. Another major benefit has been the removal of outsourced work. All components are now produced inhouse, allowing Andave total control.
This is critical, as Andave provide a unique service to all their customers, guaranteeing both the quality of work and the delivery time.
As David says the SCM machining centre has revolutionised the whole structure of the company. The clientele base of the company is testament to this, with new customers coming onboard regularly.
Prior to purchasing the CNC machining centre, Andave also updated both their edgebander and panel saw to high production SCM machines. Fitted with SCM’s unique programmable rip fence, the panel saw lent itself to the detailed work required at Andave.
The edgebander quickly proved its value, with reliability being its major strong point. As David commented ‘it works a treat’.
The benefits of dealing with a large organisation such as SCM are realised when you look at Andave shopfitting. As Andave has grown, SCM have had machines available at every step. This has allowed Andave to standardise on one brand and one supplier. Over the years this has improved staff training, and reduced the learning curve required with each machine purchase.
The SCM product range is available from Gabbett Machinery. For more information on Andave shopfitting visit www.andave.com.au
