Advantage introduces ‘Kanban’ production control system

Advantage Trade Supplies Ltd, the Cheshire – based fabricator, has recently introduced a new production control system designed to streamline its stockholding of hardware and make for more efficient production of doors.

The Kanban system was originally developed in Japan and is widely used in the automotive industry. Described as a ‘pull production system’, it controls the flow of work through a factory only by releasing materials into production as the customer demands them or only when they are needed.

The system was introduced by Millenco Hardware Ltd, who recently begun supplying Advantage with their Mantis 3 range of door locks and hinges.

Product is supplied to Advantage either on ‘A’ frames or in boxes. Empty frames and boxes are returned to Millenco and they automatically generate a recharge.

All Advantage’s production staff need do is count the empty containers and send them back to Millenco. This saves time and frees up storage capacity which can be used for other purposes. Much lower stockholding levels are therefore required which also saves cash. There are the additional benefits of not having to recycle or dispose of waste packaging.

Advantage is the UK’s largest manufacturer of Rehau S70 frames and the K2 conservatory roof system. It also manufactures Spectus’s Elite 70 system and has recently launched the Vantage range of special products including Bi-Folding Doors and Vertical Sliders. It also supplies over 45 Window Installers Warehouse trade counters.

Commenting on the introduction of the Kanban system, Advantage’s Group Commercial Director - Danny Hague said: “There are positive benefits for Advantage and our customers. The Kanban system allows us to minimize our stock holding thus freeing up space for extra manufacturing capacity. By working closely with our key suppliers we are able to streamline our production and control our manufacturing costs. It is vital in today’s market to retain your competitive edge.“

Press contact: Norman Setra
Tel: 0208 255 5072
Fax: 0208 255 2123
Email: Norman@synergygm.com