Ten business owners from County Carlow recently took part in an educational visit to Adman Steel Sheds, a manufacturing facility in Wexford which is regarded internationally as one of the best examples of the use of lean practices in a small business. The educational tour of Adman Steel Sheds was facilitated and organised by Carlow County Council’s Local Enterprise Office as a means of showing Carlow business owners how efficiencies and profitability can be achieved in any business and to inspire them to begin the process of adopting similar practices in their own businesses.
Lean is a business strategy that focuses on doing more with less. It's about identifying and eliminating waste, or anything that doesn't add value for customers. By streamlining processes, reducing unnecessary steps, and minimising waste, businesses can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction. This approach can help businesses become more competitive and agile in today's fast-paced market.
Lean is a flexible approach that can be adopted by businesses of any size, from small shops to large corporations. Whether a business is making products, selling services, or working in a non-profit, lean can help it improve efficiency, reduce waste, and deliver better results. It's a powerful tool that can benefit businesses in all sectors, not just large manufacturing where it originated.
Adman Steel Sheds, based outside Gorey in Co. Wexford are recognised as one of the best examples in Ireland, and internationally, of a small business adopting lean practices. Lean has been integrated into every aspect of the business and it has led to them become far more efficient, more responsive to customer needs, and offering a positive workplace which supports every member of staff. The Carlow businesses met staff in every department in the business and saw how adopting lean has transformed the business itself and the working day for all staff members.
Séamus Doran, Assistant Head of Economic Development & Enterprise with the Local Enterprise Office joined the Carlow businesses on their educational tour. Speaking afterwards he said “This visit to Adman Steel Sheds was an eye-opener for every one of the businesses who took part. It showed them how lean has transformed a small, rural business in a neighbouring county and it has inspired them to consider how they could adopt similar practices in their own businesses here in Carlow.
Séamus added “The Local Enterprise Office is keen to support Carlow businesses to become more efficient and more profitable through lean practices. Our Lean for Business programme offers outside expert advice to any Carlow business who is interested in exploring lean as a means of improving their business. We strongly encourage every interested Carlow business to start their lean journey today by talking to the Local Enterprise Office and applying for Lean for Business.”
Cllr. Fergal Browne, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council speaking about the importance of Lean supports said “Implementing Lean principles isn't just about cutting waste—it's about creating a culture of continuous improvement that empowers people, enhances efficiency, and drives long-term success.”
Carlow businesses can apply for ‘Lean for Business’ support at Lean For Business