Abstract
Recent literature emphasized the importance of determining factors for successful adoption of lean manufacturing in different settings. This study explored different determining factors and their impact on lean manufacturing in food processing industries in small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). The characteristics of the food industries such as mandatory quality assurance requirements, perishability of the products and variability of raw materials obstruct a straightforward application of lean manufacturing. In addition, the challenges of "change" in SMEs are distinctive from those faced by large organization. In this context, this study explores the effect of determining factors on adoption of lean manufacturing in the food processing SMEs through multiple case studies. The nature of the process was found to be a very important factor in lean adoption. The low shelf-life of the food products and the extremely volatile demand and supply was a barriers to lean manufacturing adoption. The small size of the plant, the traditional set up and layout and the quality assurance requirements make it difficult to replicate lean in food processing SMEs. The study reconfirms that commitment of top management, culture, team work, and lack of skilled manpower impacted lean implementation.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | 62nd IIE Annual Conference and Expo 2012 |
Publisher | Institute of Industrial Engineers |
Pages | 806-814 |
Publication status | Published - 2012 |
Externally published | Yes |
Event | 62nd IIE Annual Conference and Expo 2012 - , United States Duration: 19 May 2012 → 23 May 2012 |
Conference
Conference | 62nd IIE Annual Conference and Expo 2012 |
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Country/Territory | United States |
Period | 19/05/12 → 23/05/12 |