Extending lean manufacturing in supply chains: a successful case in Brazil

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the results of a success story involving the extending of lean manufacturing practices between a focal firm and its supplier, both located in Brazil, thereby configuring a case of excellence.

Design/methodology/approach

An in-depth case study was conducted involving two companies: Company A, focal, leader in its segment, located in Brazil; and Company B, Company A's supplier, also located in Brazil.

Findings

Results indicate there are several mechanisms for extending lean manufacturing practices in the supply chain, such as workshops, training, and integrated teams. These mechanisms are shown and guidelines are also introduced for companies seeking to successfully extend lean manufacturing practices.

Originality/value

An original use of define, measure, analyze, improve, control for structuring the extending of lean manufacturing practices to suppliers and, consequently, the importance of the lean six-sigma relationship in this context. Furthermore, the guidelines introduced serve as a benchmark for other companies interested in the topic.

Citation

Beatriz Lopes de Sousa Jabbour, A., Carlos Omodei Junior, J. and José Chiappetta Jabbour, C. (2014), "Extending lean manufacturing in supply chains: a successful case in Brazil", Benchmarking: An International Journal, Vol. 21 No. 6, pp. 1070-1083. https://doi.org/10.1108/BIJ-01-2013-0014