Production need not be relocated to far-off countries in order to be able to make an affordable product. Production in the Netherlands actually ensures a better quality. In order to keep the price for customer-specific fires and hearths in line with market, Barbas makes use of QRM, which stands for production without long waiting times with considerable flexibility and high quality.

On Wednesday 14 April 2010, LeanTeam, together with Nevat, Sirris and Agoria, organised a QRM day. The day began with an inspirational workshop with the inventor of QRM Rajan Suri, who had flown from America for the meeting. Nearly 100 entrepreneurs sat on the edge of their chairs, listening in fascination to the strength of QRM. Suri explained the theory, illustrating it with practical examples, which clearly showed that production for an acceptable price can still guarantee high quality.

 In the afternoon, there was a tour through the factory of Barbas, Bellfires and Continental Fires and a presentation of the company. The wood fires and gas fires are designed and manufactured in the factory. In order to avoid as far as possible any waiting times, the visit was organised in line with QRM. This meant that an immediate start was made with the tour of the first group that arrived instead of waiting for the whole group and beginning with a presentation.

After the tour, Robert de Louwere (general director Barbas, Bellfires and Continental Fires) gave a presentation about the direct and indirect consequences of QRM for the company, but certainly also for the sales department. By manufacturing according to QRM, high quality open fires can be offered at a competitive price.

The day ended with a drink in the showroom where all the fires and hearths were presented in a well-organised way.

Source: LeanTeam