Production Method Changes in Feed Enzyme Manufacturing – Flexibility through Innovations

In spring 1997, a feed enzyme factory with the staff of 12, Finnfeeds International Ltd. (FFI) introduced a new production method developed during the case study discussed in this paper For a small high-tech company it is most important to prepare for market changes. With a share of 60 percents of the world markets, FFI wanted to ensure the customer satisfaction in the future too. The vigorous growing markets are demanding more differentiated products in lower volumes and within shorter delivery times. The new production method FFI pioneering is changing the principles of production control, whilst the company is moving from make-to-stock manufacturing to assembly-to-order type procedures. The unique method makes not only the lead-time of the production shorter and facilitates the estimation of demand required for world-class competitiveness, but also consolidates the production quality as well. The FFI case shows that through innovations a SME can obtain flexibility. Consequently, the research shows that it is not impossible to "make to order" even in the process industry.