In the packaging world, the partitions and dividers which fit inside cartons, keeping products safe, separate and protected from damage, can sometimes be overlooked. But once a business realizes they are needed, responsiveness and a quick turn-round are essential. For 10 years, Chicago based Fibre-Tec has grown a thriving business providing just that, together with reliability and high levels of customer service. Its mission is simple- to provide customers with cost-effective packaging and short lead times.
Demonstrating a strong commitment to continuous improvement, the company, which employs 45 people, was first ISO9001 registered through IMSM 4 years ago. Fibre-Tec’s President Len Ingolia takes up the story. “Our customers are in the pharmaceutical, personal care, cosmetics and automotive parts sectors, as well as other packaging firms who supply boxes and outer cartons. We listen to our customers very carefully, and decided that getting ISO certified would help differentiate us from our competitors- and it has.”
“Initially we thought it would take up a lot of our time, and it might be difficult to achieve. Then we were recommended to talk to IMSM, and were relieved to find that not only were they affordable, their assessor was able to work with us to help us get where we wanted to go. We especially value being able to focus on key components of our business, whether increasing sales or reducing costs. The ability to measure and manage each part of the process is critical to our success. I know we have saved money by reducing internal complaints, which in turn means we get it right first time for our customers, who then come back again and again. This has helped us grow a reputation for reliability, fast turn rounds, and a high level of customer service.”
IMSM’s Auditor Graham Hendricks agrees. “Fibre-Tec is a company which really uses the ISO system effectively. Having audited them again recently, I found the system working perfectly, and could not list any non-compliances. They are constantly looking for ways to improve, and I am not surprised they have a loyal and growing customer base, developed not by short term price cutting, but by providing the right level of service, responsiveness and increasing efficiency. It was a real pleasure to see a company apply the thinking behind ISO9001 so effectively. Put simply, everything works.”
www.fibre-tec.com
07/01/08
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