Eight machines sold at Star open house

The in-house exhibition held by Star GB at its Melbourne technical centre from 8th to 10th November 2011 generated eight sliding-head lathe orders valued at almost £1.3 million, the majority for delivery before the end of the year.

A total of 150 visitors from 91 companies were welcomed by managing director Bob Hunt and his team, a significant increase compared with last year's show. The eight companies placing orders were all contract manufacturers, two of which were new to Star GB. The mill-turn centres spanned the capacity range from 16 mm through 20 mm to 32 mm, of which four units were sold.

Mr Hunt commented, "As a direct result of the show, we have good opportunities for further business, all from new customers, which if achieved will bring order intake to nearly £2 million.

"Media reports tend to highlight news that British manufacturing is struggling. However, we seldom hear about the thousands of highly skilled and dedicated SMEs around the country which, because of their ongoing investment in the latest manufacturing technology, are now benefitting with full order books."

This sentiment was echoed by a larger than usual number of support exhibitors at the Melbourne show, which included Emmaco (IBAG and Argotech agent), Filtermist, LNS, Werma Signaltechnik, M4 Sciences, Sandvik, Floyd Tooling, Rainford Precision, Iscar, Speciality Lubricants, Pumps & Equipment and LMT Fette. Many gained excellent enquiries, some of which have already resulted in new business.

Management from Star's Japanese parent company timed a planned visit to the UK for the day after the show ended. They were particularly impressed with the sales performance by the Star GB team and have made additional machines available for the UK market this year.