KBzine: the original kitchen and bathroom industry e-news - since 2002
28th January 2021

We strongly recommend viewing KBzine full size in your web browser. Click our masthead above to visit our website version.

British Ceramic Tile takes the LEAD with its workforce

The UK's biggest ceramic and glass tile manufacturer, British Ceramic Tile, has taken the lead with its workforce, introducing a series of initiatives that offer development opportunities for all.

The company has joined forces with Lean Education & Development Limited (LEAD) to implement a new scheme that sees employees undertake live projects in return for accreditation. Following the 'Lean manufacturing principles', colleagues have been working to simplify and organise the working environment within the factory to drive down waste and improve efficiencies.

Over a six-month period, teams of employees have been tackling practical issues head on, delivering real value to the manufacturing side of the business through four live projects which evaluated the current performance of the glaze line and sit kiln. Recommendations by the teams in the first two projects have made a big impact with the business, making financial savings of over £250K a year, while all colleagues received top marks with a level 2 Apprenticeship.

"Working with LEAD has been a fantastic initiative for the business and has been an incredibly rewarding experience for all involved," reports Dave Banton, manufacturing director at British Ceramic Tile. "There is always an area of a company that can be improved, but often time and resources stand in the way.

"With our LEAD project, colleagues from across our manufacturing division have been able to take a step back and look at new ideas that deliver real outcomes and cost savings, while growing their own skill set."?

Trevor Chilton, lean coach for LEAD, adds: "Our aim is to upskill the UK's workforce and by working with companies like British Ceramic Tile we can spread the word on lean principles.

"It was brilliant to work with a great team of people who were totally focused and passionate about what they did."

T: 01626 831391
W: www.britishceramictile.com

9th December 2016