Lean Success Story

Florida MEP Gives Naples Supplement Maker a Boost
Vitarich Laboratories Implements Lean Manufacturing Techniques to Improve

Vitarich Laboratories has been a pioneer in the research, development and worldwide distribution of premium nutritional products.

When Vitarich became cGMP certified, the company experienced rapid growth. As the company expanded, they continued to need more space, which resulted in Vitarich’s operations being spread out among several buildings, creating workflow issues.

Vitarich’s executive vice president, Craig Waldinger brought in Florida MEP to introduce the Time Wise® Principles of Lean Manufacturing. A Time Wise Value Stream Management System session was facilitated to map the flow of work through the production line, identify gaps and then implement changes that would have the greatest impact.

"One of the first results of Lean implementation was moving all of our powders into one building, centralizing everything from warehousing to manufacturing," said Waldinger. "Not only did this reduce production travel time, it helped us alleviate moisture problems due to exposure of Florida’s humid climate and it has improved lead in increased sales."

Vitarich also estimates Lean Manufacturing led to a 20 percent increase in productivity, and cost savings in excess of $200,000 and expects to increase sales by over $2,000,000 in the next year.