In an effort to eliminate excess and become leaner, five companies from the province's Central Region are using a $155,000 investment from the Provincial Government to collaborate with the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters Association (CME) on a series of lean manufacturing training programs.

"In today's business environment, knowledge into how best to maximize productivity and eliminate waste, in the face of sometimes volatile external market conditions, is at a premium," said the Honourable Shawn Skinner, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. "Companies that apply best practices in their operations can ultimately better manage their budgets and competitiveness. These five companies recognize that importance and are proactively training staff to improve their operational efficiencies."

Participating companies are Blanchard's Woodworking, New Wood Manufacturing, Seabreeze Boats, Sutreen Hardwoods, and Versatile Stones. Delivered by CME, more than 50 company employees will receive practical training to eliminate unproductive processing activities, limit work-in-progress and finished goods inventories, and optimize work flow through the manufacturing plant.

Through the training, participants will acquire a greater understanding of workplace organization and safety. Additionally, the training will stress employee involvement in solving real shop floor problems, engage employees in rapid continuous improvement projects, and eliminate waste in the workplace.