Shannon Chamber 'Leans' on Britvic for event in Limerick's county town

THE Newcastle West factory which produces Ballygowan bottled water played host to a business group focused on how to minimise waste and maximise customer value.

Members of the Mid-West Lean Network, facilitated by Shannon Chamber, visited Britvic Ireland’s facility in Limerick’s county town.

The drinks giant took over Ballygowan last year.

Those in attendance learned how the company is reaping benefits from a journey it is on, called ‘Lean’.

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In business, ‘Lean’ refers to a management philosophy and methodology focused on maximising customer value while minimising waste by continuously improving the way things are done.

It was pioneered at motoring giant Toyota.

Since taking over Ballygowan, Britvic says it has increased the availability of Ballygowan water by 18%.

Process up-time has been increased by 6%, and the case counter is up 8% per shift.

Shannon Chamber chief executive Helen Downes said: “It was motivating to see how the company culture of improvement and innovation is driving tangible results. It was a great few hours of learning and knowledge sharing, time well spent.”