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JTEKT Enhances Manufacturing Efficiency with MISUMI floow

In a move poised to transform the operational efficiency of its Kameyama plant, JTEKT Corporation, a leader in automotive components such as bearings, steering, and drive parts, has adopted the innovative service known as "MISUMI floow." This solution is provided by the MISUMI Group, headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, and centers on total cost reduction in indirect materials.

Overview of the Kameyama Plant

JTEKT’s Kameyama facility is renowned for its rigorous quality standards across various manufacturing processes including grinding, assembly, quality inspection, equipment maintenance, and packaging. Previously, the plant administered its glove supply through a cumbersome manual ordering process. Gloves were ordered monthly, leading to inventory challenges with varying sizes and types needed per individual and task. Overall, this method was time-consuming and inefficient due to fluctuating staffing levels, including part-time workers, requiring some teams to maintain excessive stock levels.

The Introduction of MISUMI floow

Understanding the need for a more efficient system, JTEKT decided to implement the MISUMI floow service. The new setup allows workers to access gloves precisely when needed without maintaining a large inventory. Remarkably, the introduction of this system has led to an approximate 80% reduction in the management time associated with glove supplies. Additionally, as teams are more aware of their consumption, the overall usage has decreased by about 20%, illustrating a significant cultural shift towards responsible resource use.

Future plans involve expanding this efficient system to include other supplies, such as chip systems and proximity switches, ensuring that management complexity remains minimal while further increasing operational efficiencies.

Feedback from JTEKT Operational Teams

Kyoko Murasawa from the Engineering Department highlighted that previously, each month's glove order required extensive coordination, often resulting in delays and inventory issues. Post-implementation, the streamlined system allows immediate access to required sizes, making departmental communication much clearer. She noted, “The process simplification has not only improved efficiency but also ensured everyone is on the same page regarding glove usage.”

Moreover, Yuya Ogasawara from the Manufacturing Department expressed that having a vending machine for glove supplies means newly introduced staff can quickly obtain the correct size without delay, reducing the need for storing excess stock around the factory.

What is MISUMI floow?

MISUMI floow leverages digital innovations to streamline the procurement of indirect materials based on demand data. It effectively reduces ordering time by up to 70% and enhances inventory visibility. The service includes the deployment of vending machines that stock frequently used consumables directly on the manufacturing floor—avoiding the risk of overstock while ensuring quick access.

The unique approach minimizes wastage through stringent access controls, including face recognition and ID checks when retrieving items, thus prompting a change in employee spending behavior.

In recognition of its innovative approach, MISUMI floow has received several awards, including the Good Design Award in 2025 and accolades from IT awards for service innovation.

Conclusion

The implementation of the MISUMI floow system at JTEKT's Kameyama plant marks a significant step in the evolution of manufacturing efficiency. By complementing high-quality production processes with advanced logistical solutions, JTEKT demonstrates its commitment to enhancing operational effectiveness, paving the way for a more streamlined future.

For detailed insights into this initiative, please visit MISUMI floow Service Site. Additional positive reviews can be found on the Customer Voices Page.