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three green bullets

Partnering for the right reasons: Allsteel's success with Hydro

When Hydro Aluminum was chosen as new supplier of fabricated aluminum extrusions for Allsteel's Terrace office system, both companies committed to a long-term partnership that has seen impressive advances in processes and cost controls.

 

Allsteel's Terrace furniture system has enduring style and unsurpassed functionality. It creates workspaces that integrate teams, technology, work tools, and meeting places with productive efficiency.

A model for transitions

Changing suppliers was a major investment for Allsteel. But Hydro’s Cassville/Monett, Missouri team brought a wealth of resources – engineering design, tooling expertise, and reliable metal sources. Allsteel was assured they were making the right choice.

Both companies worked tirelessly during a six-month transition. Hydro partnered with Allsteel in design review. Improvements to extrusion shapes were identified, and dies made in record time.

Fabrication equipment was transferred or bought new. And thanks to proper project management, everyone adhered to the transition schedule. Things went so smoothly, that Allsteel now uses Hydro’s transfer process as a model for other transitions.

Real-time improvements

Hydro and Allsteel are now engaged in several process control programs:

First, Allsteel’s Margin Improvement Process: Hydro seeks ways to remove waste in production. Each year a goal is set and both companies try to improve margins together.

Second, Inventory Management Program: Hydro stocks parts and delivers them daily to Allsteel, keeping inventory costs down for both companies.

Third, On-Time Delivery: Allsteel guarantees on-time delivery of its office systems. Hydro helps Allsteel maintain a 99.8% on-time performance.

Today, Hydro’s Missouri operations supply nearly 400 parts to Allsteel including T’s, L’s, top cap trim, cosmetic trim, and vertical trim. Both companies anticipate a partnership long into the future.

Updated: December 12, 2007
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