The sign and display franchise took delivery of the digital cutting table, which was supplied by CMYUK, in December.

Set up 14 years ago, the family-run business serves the construction, manufacturing, education, healthcare, housing, retail, events, and exhibitions sectors.

Requiring greater speed and efficiency, the business looked at a variety of cutting options from several manufacturers.

An e-shot from CMYUK regarding the Kongsberg machine, however, made enough of an impression for directors Dave and Carolyn Riddell to turn their attention away from another cutter they had been seriously considering.

The pair visited the CMYUK demonstration and training facility in Shrewsbury and were impressed with the X20 Edge.

“We could see the productivity gains the Kongsberg table offered and the added value it could bring to the business due to its capabilities and versatility,” said Dave Riddell.

Fastsigns Gloucester’s device includes a router, rigid material blade, kiss cut blade, and diamond polishing bit. The kit has also been configured with a camera registration system to ensure the most accurate cutting, folding, and engraving on even very complex jobs.

The X20 Edge has a working area of 1,680x1,270mm, and a conveyorised belt option allows for the cutting of panels and materials larger than the physical bed.

The investment will enable the company to bring in-house products such as acrylic letters and panels that have traditionally been supplied by a third party. It will also use the machine to step into new areas.

“We’ve got many customers who have requirements we weren’t aware of and we hope that by talking to them about the Kongsberg this will open up more opportunities to supply different products,” said Riddell.

“We want to service our loyal customers much more comprehensively. The Kongsberg is not only about making things faster – it’s allowed us to do things such as contour cutting shapes and letters that we couldn’t do before.

“We’re undergoing training on-site and this is igniting so many ideas and additional possibilities for the business.”

He added: “Going forward, we’re aiming to increase our overall sales and profit on products that we used to subcontract out and items that we used to fabricate by hand, further improve on quality and shorten lead times.

“Working with CMYUK has been a positive experience. We know if we need support or advice, they are only a phone call away.”