Gang-Nail Systems, part of Eleco plc, is bypassing the downturn with an increasing number of new customers. These include Pinewood Structures, Midland Timber Engineering (MTE) and new start-up Fencehouses Truss Company in the UK and Asmaz Timber Engineering in Turkey.

Already using Gang-Nail Systems’ Consultec Framing software to design timber frame structures, Pinewood Structures has now converted to the company’s GN Roof & Truss and GN Matrix software to manufacture all of its truss requirements.
 
Geoff Arnold, Managing Director of Pinewood Structures explained that efficiencies delivered by the software are helping to support its business: “GN Matrix provides an excellent platform from which we can manage our factory in an efficient manner.
 
“Pinewood Structures already uses Consultec framing software from Gang-Nail Systems and GN Matrix links with this for effective communication between the design and manufacturing environments.”

MTE in Leicester is a similar example. Until recently MTE bought its roof trusses but has now invested more than £100,000 in a Gang-Nail roof truss and Ecojoist joist manufacturing plant, enabling the business to undertake all aspects of timber framed building manufacture itself. This major investment will also give MTE ultimate control over every aspect of production. MTE was an existing customer of the Consultec Framing software from Gang-Nail Systems and the company has been manufacturing timber frame and floor cassettes for some 14 years.

Kirk Eversfield, Operations Director of MTE said: “By bringing the trussed rafter manufacturing function in-house using Gang-Nail Systems’ software we can be confident that all elements of our timber framed systems are produced to the highest standard – benefiting not only MTE but the construction industry in general. Far too much cost cutting is compromising quality standards across the industry. This investment allows MTE to remain at the forefront of timber engineering innovation so we can grow and diversify in line with market needs.”

The positive approach to the new market conditions does not stop in the UK. Turkey-based truss manufacturer Asmaz has also extended its offering to begin manufacturing roof trusses too, with the help of Gang-Nail Systems. Gang-Nail Systems will install a new saw and press for the company to use in conjunction with its truss software.

Mehmet Akif Asmaz, CEO of Asmaz Timber Engineering, is impressed with the equipment and service offered by Gang-Nail Systems, commenting, “Although we are based in Turkey, Gang-Nail Systems was able to suggest a package that was right for us. The comprehensive product portfolio offered by Gang-Nail Systems offers an edge over alternative companies by providing an almost tailor-made package for individual businesses. As such, we are now manufacturing trusses using mechanical equipment from Gang-Nail.”

It is not only existing timber engineering companies that are extending their manufacturing capabilities through Gang-Nail Systems. Gang-Nail is also supporting a number of new companies too. A new manufacturer in the UK, Fencehouses Truss Company, has built a new bespoke factory that includes a press purchased and installed by Gang-Nail Systems.

Steve Harris, Director of Fencehouses Truss Company said: “Our relationship with Gang-Nail Systems extends some two and half years, as the company has supported our inception and development as a new start up almost from day one. There is a lot of opportunity in the market place and we are aiming to supply a first class service to developers both in the public and private sectors, builders merchants and professional tradesmen. This would not be possible without the support of a supplier like Gang-Nail which can integrate its software with the manufacturing hardware to save time and improve production efficiencies.”

Paul Baron, Managing Director of Gang-Nail Systems, recognises that these new business wins mark the drive for timber engineering organisations to rationalise their supplier base: “We are seeing a significant number of existing customers turn to us to supply all of their timber engineering and software requirements. The benefit of this is shorter lead times with consolidated supply chain and associated paperwork, combined with the financial security of a well-established player.”