Leaning into manufacturing efficiency

A NORTHERN Rivers packaging manufacturer has identified ways to save more than 1,600 labour hours and $56,000 a year after taking part in a State Government efficiency program.

Ant Packaging, based near Ballina, joined the NSW Government’s Lean Manufacturing Pilot Program, which offers on-site audits to small and medium manufacturers to reduce waste and improve workflow.

Managing director John Clark said the process helped the business take a fresh look at how it operates.

“When the opportunity to participate in the Lean Manufacturing Pilot Program came up, we saw it as a chance to challenge ourselves and take a fresh look at how we work,” Clark said.

“The audits provided valuable external insight, and the support from the program gave us the tools and structure to turn those insights into practical actions.

“Since completing the pilot, we’ve already started implementing clearer visual controls, improving communication across shifts and introducing more structured daily problem-solving.

“These changes are small but powerful, and they’re already making a difference to efficiency and team engagement.”

Clark said the process had also reinforced the company’s focus on continual improvement.

“It’s helped us reset our focus and reinforced the value of continuous improvement as a daily habit, not a once-off project,” he said.

The regional manufacturing sector generates about $38 billion in revenue and employs 84,000 people across NSW.