Adoptability of lean manufacturing among small and medium food processing enterprises

M. Dora, D. Van Goubergen, A. Molnar, X. Gellynck, M. Kumar

Research output: Chapter in Book / Report / Conference proceedingConference contributionAcademicpeer-review

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 languageEnglish
Title of host publication62nd IIE Annual Conference and Expo 2012
PublisherInstitute of Industrial Engineers
Pages806-814
Publication statusPublished - 2012
Externally publishedYes
Event62nd IIE Annual Conference and Expo 2012 - , United States
Duration: 19 May 201223 May 2012

Conference

Conference62nd IIE Annual Conference and Expo 2012
Country/TerritoryUnited States
Period19/05/1223/05/12

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