The new NEO range of laser processing machines and a strong focus on customer service helped Yamazaki Mazak record its most successful ever year for laser sales in 2023.
The NEO range, which complements Mazak’s 2D laser and 3D tube cutting machines, has opened up new markets for the company within both OEMs and subcontractors.
Ian White, general sales manager – laser products, says the NEO machines – including the Optiplex Neo 20kW, a 2D fibre laser with 3015 and 4220 bed sizes, and the FG-400 NEO fibre laser for long tubes, pipes and structural materials – have added new capability to the Mazak laser range.
He said: “The NEO machines have helped us penetrate new markets, particularly where laser users are working with heavy plate – in the energy and construction sectors, for example. We’ve also recorded a good mix of sales into both OEMs and subcontractors, with particularly strong results in medical – a sector that requires exceptional accuracy and cut quality.”
The strength of Mazak’s service offering for laser users has also driven market share. Mr White added: “Mazak has invested in its service and support for customers, and we now have 25 applications staff ready to advise. We have also introduced our industry-first 24-hour service hotline for laser users, which is available even if the machine is not under warranty or a service contract.”
Automation has proved to be a very successful selling point for Mazak. The company has a large automation range with more than 50 options for customers due to the use of its Open Robot Interface technology, which means virtually any automation system can be fitted to its machines. Mazak also designs bespoke systems tailored to individual customer production requirements.
The opening of the European Laser Technology Centre in Milan has helped promote Mazak’s laser range. “It has been a great addition to our Technology Centre network and has raised Mazak’s profile among laser users across Europe,” Mr White commented.
Mazak recently expanded its laser manufacturing with a move to a larger facility at Minokamo in Japan, which has increased production capacity and further integrated the company’s operations.
Mr White is confident that 2024 will deliver more success: “We’re launching the new Optiplex Ez machine – a cost-effective laser processing range with multiple advanced cutting features – which I believe will be very competitive and popular within the UK market.”
Yamazaki Mazak
www.mazakeu.co.uk
