Case studies

Case studies provide an insight into how the Scottish Manufacturing Advisory Service (SMAS) provide manufacturing firms of all sizes expert advice, one-to-one support and training. 

Chemicals and life sciences

• BPI Polythene's adoption of Lean techniques brings expansion and 40 new jobs
• Lab901 introduce best practice manufacturing techniques (Lean and Six Sigma) leading to improvements across the business

Engineering and electronics

• Babcock implement 5S workplace organisation and see a dramatic improvement in the working environment
• Castle Precision Engineering supported through the SC21 change programme
• Hydro Cable increased its efficiency and reduced delivery times to remain competitive
• Keihin Europe improve processes through Value Stream Mapping (VSM) and save £24,000
• Kelvinside Electronics benefit from improved organisation with SMAS
• Link Cable Assemblies progresses through the SC21 stringent standards

Food and drink

• Dewar's deliver improvements across the company using Lean manufacturing principles
• Gourmet's Choice open up revenue streams by achieving the SALSA accreditation
• Highland Fine Cheeses was introduced to a range of support and increased turnover by 25% and gained wider nationwide recognition
• Maclean's Highland Bakery developed a plan to achieve BRC accreditation and improved their shop floor layout

Forestry and construction

• Hall and Tawse Joinery overhauling their processes results in improved GVA of £360,000
• Merson Signs streamline processes, contributing to an efficiency saving of £250,000

Manufacturing and Textiles

• Carron Phoenix implementation of Lean has led to a 32% increase in productivity
• Highland Metals has benefited from improved workflow, increased productivity and a potential value added figure worth upwards of £50,000
• Holland and Sherry realised expansion plans and made dramatic efficiency savings