Scalable Solutions
When Morro Partnerships set out to build their Innovation Hub, they were not chasing scale: they were looking to creating smart, scalable facilities with controllable output. The 8,000 sq ft factory supports the West Midlands-based manufacturer’s growing demand for large-scale housing developments, but operational capacity isn’t about having more space; it’s about thinking differently.
A Compact Factory With Maximum Output
“This is a compact environment by design,” says Dave Thacker, Director of The Innovation Hub at Morro Partnerships. “Every machine and every layout decision was shaped by over two decades of experience. The goal was to maximise output without wasting space, because in modern manufacturing, every square metre matters. The bigger the factory, the more your costs go up, so we kept it compact on purpose.”
This deliberate approach challenged traditional assumptions about factory design and size, prioritising sustainability and workflow efficiency, and investing in equipment that truly earns its place on the floor. This is where Leicester-based machinery distributor, TM Machinery came in.
Efficient Heating and Clean Air Without Heat Loss
“Even ceiling height factored into the calculations,” Dave explains. “We’re in a low-ceiling factory because it makes no sense to heat unused space. If you’re spending on energy, you don’t want it disappearing.” That’s where the AL-KO dust extraction system came in. “It’s the only setup that keeps the air clean without dropping the temperature. That’s a big deal: you wouldn’t think it matters, but it really does.”
Precision Cutting in a Compact Workspace
But good airflow is only part of the story. The Striebig Compact vertical panel saw, fitted with just 90mm clearance, wasn’t picked because it’s small: it’s the precision, reliability and network connectivity that sealed the deal. “It’s not just about fitting in tight spaces; it’s about cutting clean, fast, and right every time. We’re processing 30 to 50 panels a day with multiple cuts on each sheet. It’s taken the guesswork out and significantly reduced waste.”
Boosting Productivity With the Mechanical Sliding Stop
Morro also opted for the optional mechanical sliding stop: a precision guide that locks onto the rail for fast, repeatable cuts. This simple addition has boosted setup speed and cutting efficiency by up to 30%, saving valuable time without the need to re-measure. It’s a smart move that future-proofs the factory for scaling output as demand increases.
Achieving Paper-Free Production
The biggest win? Achieving Morro’s goal of paper-free production. “Eradicating the pen and paper has been key to our evolving environment,” Dave explains. “Now, cutting instructions go straight from our system to the saw, which prints a label for every board: plot number, board ID, everything, right there on the spot. It saves seconds on every cut, but over a day, a week, or a year, that time adds up. The seamless network connection and label printer on the Striebig saw is the gift that keeps on giving. I would say it has boosted our workflow by at least 10%.”
Long-Term Strategy Over Quick Fixes
This isn’t just about machines working together: it’s about fitting into a bigger plan. “Sustainability isn’t a separate objective,” Dave says. “If you buy cheap, it’s not sustainable. We needed machines built to last and that don’t throw the balance of the workshop out. That means less downtime, less hassle.”
High Safety Standards as Core Design
Safety is a huge part of that balance, especially when working with timber. “Should anyone overlook health and safety in timber frame manufacturing they would be very foolish,” Dave says. “It’s almost impossible to injure yourself on a Striebig saw – they’re designed with operator safety in mind but obviously good training from TM is essential.” Fire is a real risk in timber frame production, so having the AL-KO system with automatic cleaning and monitoring takes the pressure off and keeps the workshop safe.
The two machines also work seamlessly together. “We trust them,” he adds. “They more than meet the mark on health, safety, and environmental standards.”
Investment in People and Better Working Conditions
But it is not just about investing in machinery: it’s about investment in people. Dave explains. “Workflows are smoother, the noise levels are reduced, and there’s less heavy lifting. The daily risks are reduced, and our energy levels are high.”
Partnership With TM Machinery
Finding the right machinery is critical to The Innovation Hubs success. That’s why they’ve trusted TM Machinery, the exclusive distributor of Striebig and AL-KO for over 20 years: from purchasing and installation to training and ongoing servicing. Behind the scenes, TM Machinery’s service keeps things ticking. “Downtime’s not an option. TM are quick on the call and know the kit inside out. That means we keep our head down and get on with it.”
Scaling Smart: Strategic Investment for Future Growth
After several challenging years for the woodworking industry, Morro Partnerships knows that success comes from thinking differently: making strategic, long-term choices rather than chasing quick fixes. Growth doesn’t mean getting bigger for the sake of it.
Instead, The Innovation Hub has taken a deliberate, highly strategic approach to scaling. “Investment should be made when the market’s toughest: it shows real future commitment and prepares you for the better times ahead. We are not about quick fixes or flashy automation; it is about being smart, lean, and making every part of the factory count, day in, day out.”
Contact TM Machinery for More Information
Ready to transform your woodworking operation? Talk to TM and discover how the automation within Striebig’s range of vertical panel saws can help streamline production and increase your business’s potential.
