Powering the transformation [lean transformation in Duracell LaGrange facility]

In 2001 and under severe financial pressure, battery supplier Duracell´s manufacturing plant in LaGrange, Georgia embarked on a lean transformation programme focused on the establishment of a sense of urgency. Also high on the priority list was the formation of a guiding coalition tasked to create and communicate a vision and empower this vision into action. Duracell conducted value stream mapping at a higher level value, called strategy deployment, allowing a balance between long-term objectives and short-term initiatives. The LaGrange team developed standard work for all operations to maintain some form of sustainability after the rapid improvement event. Under the guise of continuous improvement the programme will continue, ensuring that LaGrange remains among the most productive plants in the sector.