Tropical Gardens

Profile

Location: Mosinee, WI
Years in Business: Over 25
No. of Employees: 30

Products: produce and wholesale tropical plants and plant accessories to retailers all of the upper midwest

NWMOC Projects: Value Stream Mapping, Culture of Continuous Improvement, 5S Visual Workplace

Situation

Tropical Gardens is a company with a long and successful history. But like all companies today, they are experiencing tremendous pressures to maintain margins and keep their business strong.

Project

Two years ago Rick attended a lunch-time seminar about lean manufacturing put on by the NWMOC. This has led to a lasting relationship with NWMOC. Since that time Tropical Gardens has done many value stream maps, made changes to several of their processes, reduced non-value-added activities, and developed a continuous improvement strategy that continues to sustain itself.

Results

• Productivity improved
• Reduction in heating costs
• Improved profit margin
• Better utilization of floor space
• More employee involvement
• Increased morale and pride