GRAND HAVEN, Mich., Oct. 24, 2007 – Shape Corp. received the 2007 Most Improved Supplier Award from Bombardier Recreational Products at the company’s annual supplier awards.
Machine operators at Shape Corp. increased the number of parts they’re making for Bombardier, even while they reduced their walking distance and fatigue. Jim Rosasco, vice president of the diversified products business unit, said this was accomplished by tracking productivity and rearranging the work area.
Making improvements like these to reduce waste and make operations more efficient is called lean manufacturing.
Shape also invested in new equipment to bend the steel.
Rosasco said this award “is recognition of the efforts that have been put forth.” The efforts Mr. Rosasco is referring to are those of associates who he said were, “willing to embrace … new concepts and ideas.”
Shape Corp. is North America’s top automotive bumper manufacturer and a global leader in impact energy management systems and advanced rollforming. As the world’s only full-service bumper systems supplier providing design, testing, manufacturing and more, Shape has facilities in the U.S., China, Japan, Mexico, India and Germany with headquarters in Grand Haven, Mich. Shape also supplies the office furniture, agricultural, recreational and healthcare industries. Founded in 1974, Shape has over 1,300 associates and five sister companies. For more information, contact Alexis Crandell-Blackmer at 616-850-3681 or at crandela@shapecorp.com.