Tuesday, July 29, 2025
In a move to enhance production flexibility and maintain a competitive edge in the custom-made window and door market, DE HOEF, a key player in the Dutch construction industry, has recently commissioned the Woodpecker Mirai CNC machine. This investment marks the next chapter in their long-standing relationship with Saomad, continuing a tradition of precision and quality.
DE HOEF’s business philosophy stands apart in an industry dominated by mass production. As Rick Kamphuis, Plant Manager, explains, “We primarily specialize in special projects.” The company focuses on intricate work for the residential construction market, particularly complex building details and customisations for apartment complexes. Their dedication to craftsmanship has cemented their reputation in the central Netherlands, where they work exclusively with construction firms in a B2B context. Kamphuis highlights that working business-to-business fosters better communication, which is crucial when handling technical details in design.
DE HOEF’s collaboration with Saomad, spanning over 15 years, has been anchored in reliability. They’ve been using a Titanium machine, which has proven itself with a production rate of around 3,000 to 4,000 window frames annually without significant issues. The success of this machine played a pivotal role in their decision to renew their fleet of machines, which were nearing 15-20 years of use. Their choice to continue working with Saomad, through the Dutch dealer Gerretsen, demonstrates the trust DE HOEF has in both the technology and customer service provided by the family-run business.
Several factors influenced DE HOEF’s decision to invest in the Woodpecker Mirai, beyond the technical capabilities of the machine. Edwin Schoonderbeek, the company’s owner, explains, “One of the main reasons we chose Saomad is that they’re a family business and the fact that they create the machine by producing all the components in-house.” Unlike competitors who source parts externally, Saomad’s approach allows for complete control over production quality, ensuring a higher standard of manufacturing.
The family business model also provides an approachable and responsive customer service experience. “If we have a problem, we know we can count on Gerretsen service. It doesn’t matter if we call them at 11:00 PM, they answer the phone and give us all the help we need,” says Schoonderbeek. This level of support, especially in industries with tight production schedules, is invaluable.
The decision to invest in the Woodpecker Mirai CNC machine wasn’t merely about upgrading technology; it was a strategic move to address the increasing demands of the market.
Increased Production Versatility
The Woodpecker Mirai is expected to give DE HOEF the flexibility they need to respond to the ever-growing demand for customised products. Kamphuis outlines how the machine will allow them to move away from the rigid production processes currently in place. “What we really expect from this machine is that it will make us more versatile,” he says, highlighting the importance of having the ability to adapt to market needs quickly.
The Need for Automation
In an industry where competition is fierce, staying ahead means embracing automation. “Everyone is doing it, we have to do it too,” Kamphuis admits, referring to the widespread adoption of CNC machinery in the Dutch window market. By using Woodpecker Mirai, DE HOEF ensures they remain competitive in an automated environment where manual labour is no longer sufficient.
Addressing the Labour Shortage
A key challenge for DE HOEF is the ongoing shortage of skilled labour. “All young people want to be influencers and don’t want to be in a factory,” laments Schoonderbeek. The Woodpecker Mirai helps address this issue, operating with a single operator and requiring minimal human input after hours. This efficiency ensures that DE HOEF can optimise their workforce while maintaining high production levels.
The initial feedback from DE HOEF on the Woodpecker Mirai has been overwhelmingly positive. While they’re still fine-tuning certain aspects of the machine, Schoonderbeek is confident in the investment’s potential. “We’re confident in what we’ve seen here. The machine works,” he says. The collaboration with Saomad’s technical team is ongoing, ensuring that the machine will be perfectly aligned with DE HOEF’s specific needs.
The Woodpecker Mirai represents more than just a technological upgrade for DE HOEF. It’s an investment that builds on years of trust, solidifies their market position, and supports their long-term goals in an ever-evolving industry. This strategic investment in automation and production flexibility underscores DE HOEF’s commitment to high-quality craftsmanship and their readiness to adapt to changing market dynamics. As they continue to grow, DE HOEF will remain at the forefront of the Dutch window and door market, combining artisanal expertise with cutting-edge technology.
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