Story Published:
Jun 30, 2010 at 9:44 PM CDT
Story Updated:
Jun 30, 2010 at 9:45 PM CDT
They were celebrating many things at the Philips Luminaires, North America plant in Sparta last Friday, but perhaps none more important than the simple fact that this plant, established in 1963, is a "survivor."
Representative Henry Fincher told the group, "They say that manufacturing can't compete in the U.S. They say that we can't try new ways of working and find new solutions. But you're proving them wrong. You are proof that there is a future for manufacturing in this area, through hard work and finding new ways to do things."
The April recipient of this year's "Top Ten Best Plants" award, along with the "Best Plant" award within the Philips Professional Luminaires group of manufacturers and the "Most Improved Safety" award, the manufacturer has made significant changes in recent years in order to remain competitive globally.
An IBEW union facility, the company employs some 245 people at the facility and is among Sparta's largest employers.
"You've worked hard, and I appreciate what you've achieved. Today, I just want to say thank you." said Plant Manager Dave Uhrik to the assembled employees, their family members and area leaders. The 400 person group was treated to lunch, snow cones and a carefully planned tour through the working plant that involved presentations by employees about their work.
What makes this plant so successful? A committed workforce, low inventory levels, lean manufacturing processes and a continued focus on improvement, according to Philips.
But they're far from finished with all that improvement. The audience response to Plant Manager Dave Uhrik's final comments was a telling indicator of continued commitment. "We've been recognizedas one of the best in the nation. Now, we have to become the best in the world. We can do that."
