Future-proofed production with efficiency, communication and less waste
Getting better where it matters
In 2024, we made significant progress in enhancing our production processes, internal communication, and sustainability efforts. By systematically addressing daily operational challenges, we improved productivity and reduced waste across the company. These achievements not only strengthen our manufacturing capabilities but also contribute to Herrmans’ commitment to sustainability and quality.
Joel Kaitfors, Production & Supply Chain Director
Clearer communication and planning
One key area of focus was improving how our production teams communicate and react to changes. We placed considerable efforts on making daily communication smoother and more efficient, enabling quicker responses if something interferes with our plans. We implemented a new planning system to increase transparency across all departments. Plans are now clearly visible company-wide, making information easily accessible and reducing uncertainties. The new system also lays a strong foundation for future digitalization efforts planned for 2025.
300 improvements – and counting
In 2024, we significantly enhanced our measurement and monitoring capabilities. By introducing new Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), we improved our decision-making processes, particularly regarding production efficiency and waste management. But measuring alone isn’t enough to change anything. Throughout the year, we actively addressed identified inefficiencies by implementing over 300 improvement initiatives within production. Many of these improvements focused on eliminating the seven types of waste (known as “seven mudas”): transportation, inventory, motion, waiting, overproduction, over-processing, and defects.
Significant waste reduction in injection molding
A tangible result of our focused improvements was a 1 percentage point reduction in scrap generated by our injection molding operations – which is quite a huge achievement in manufacturing contexts. This improvement was achieved through practical measures, such as enhanced sorting methods on high-volume machines, leading to better separation of usable materials from waste. We also installed additional conveyor belts, reducing manual handling waste and increasing material efficiency.
Optimizing warehouse operations and reducing plastic use
Our warehouse team enhanced efficiency by streamlining the picking and shipping processes for customer samples. A notable improvement was the introduction of a paper void ll machine, significantly reducing our use of plastic packaging in sample shipments.
Automated Assembly for the Nordic CL3
We’ve developed a completely new cell for fully automated light assembly of the new CL3 light. This setup eliminates unnecessary internal movements and transportation during production, streamlining the process and saving both time and resources. The result: faster production, more efficient use of resources, and a clear ergonomic improvement compared to traditional manual assembly.
Joel Kaitfors, Production & Supply Chain Director is pleased and rightfully so
“Together, these initiatives have increased our factory’s efficiency by over 10% when measured by output per work hour. We’ve implemented 300 improvements initiatives and reduced injection molding scrap by 1 percentage point, which is a huge step in reducing waste and increasing efficiency.
Success stories like these are only possible when the whole team is open to tackle challenges head-on. We have a team that is actively trying to improve the ways we work and doing so with great impact.”
