Cincinnati, OH – Cincinnati Incorporated is turning the tables on the economic downturn and positioning itself for the recovery, much as it prompts its own customers to do. The company is investing 10 percent of 2009 sales – and another 10 percent in 2010 – to re-tool its plant and implement lean practices from top to bottom. Investments in machine tool upgrades and training will reduce lead times on built-to-order machines by 50 percent and increase capacity 30-50 percent without adding labor hours while reducing manufacturing costs and improving competitiveness. The manufacturer of laser cutting systems, press brakes, powdered metal presses and shears has completely rebuilt its major machine tools with new controls, drives and spindles. All employees will have received lean training within the next six months, as well.
According to Michiel Schuitemaker, president and CEO of Cincinnati Incorporated, "At the onset of the recovery, quick delivery is going to be as critical as price. The rebuilds coupled with lean practices will be crucial to our objectives of increased velocity and plant capacity, even with a reduced workforce, while allowing us to hold prices down through internal cost reduction."
Cincinnati is one of the last build-to-order U.S.-based machine tool makers, and has shipped more than 60,000 machines in its 111 years of operation. The company, even at 100-plus years, is demonstrating a young outlook and willingness to embrace new ideas and technology.
Also demonstrating Cincinnati's commitment to lean practices is the new web-based machine diagnostics/monitoring system that allows customers access to remote trouble-shooting services, and saves them time and money. Cincinnati releases regular software upgrades to its customers to take advantage of the latest manufacturing techniques.
For more information on Cincinnati Incorporated's laser cutters, press brakes, shears and software products, visit its web site at www.e-ci.com.