US machine supplier United Bakery Equipment (UBE) is on a mission to crack the UK market. The automated slicing and packaging equipment specialist plans to raise its profile after installing its first high-performance UBE band slicer at a leading UK plant baker.

Peter Wallin, director of UK partner Habwood Technical Solutions, admitted that a previous version of the machine had struggled to cut softer British bread, but said this had been rectified. “Build design has changed and it now cuts really efficiently,” he said.

The firm will embark on a tour of the major bakers in Britain and Ireland in a bid to convert bakers. “We’re very confident that it will prove successful, as the two people who have trialled the machine, have bought it. UBE fully recognises the importance of the UK market and is determined to make further inroads.”

UBE’s 90-75 band slicer provides smooth, even slicing and is ideal for the British market, according to Wallin.
“Slices are smooth and uniform because the 90-75 moves loaves through the blades at a slower penetration rate. A major benefit is that blades will last between three and four weeks rather than a typical 24 hours.”

The machine sells for between $220,000 (£144,336) and $300,000 (£196,815) depending on the options.